2016 40 Under 40 Issue -Legacy South Florida

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

South Florida

Broward & Palm Beach

"Providing News/Information and Connecting Florida’s Black Affluencers and Influencers"

40 Under 40 Issue

Honoring South Florida's 40 Under 40 Black Leaders of Today and Tomorrow for 2016 Broward County's political season is in top gear Meet the young innovators that are leading the way in technology, business, the medical field and public relations Attacking the "Brain Drain" And more...

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN

MIRAMAR IRHIM RADIO

Download the Tune-in radio application, type “It’s Right Here in Miramar” in the search box, hit enter and viola – click on the link once it appears and you will be listening to IRHIM radio! Tune in every Tues & Thurs at 10am to “Good Morning Miramar with Tamara G” to hear from experts on a range of topics and a chance to win It’s Right Here In Miramar Swag!

CARD

Fall Registration

Don’t wait until it’s too late! The City of Miramar Miramarvals Programs are now accepting enrollment applications for all sites for the 2016-2017 VPK school year. (Infants through after school).

july take the pledge!

I will properly dispose of used motor oil & unused household chemicals. I will take unwanted hazardous household waste products to the City’s monthly Household Hazardous Waste Drop events. #StormwaterMatters

NEW Miramar Waste & recycling App

MIRAMAR YOUCARD

2016 Passport Days

P.A.C.E. Program

You can learn how to dispose of waste materials properly and provide your feedback!

Download today! Available in Apple and Google Play stores.

Come apply for your U.S. Passport without an appointment from 9AM-3:30 PM on: 7/18-7/21, 8/1,8/29, 9/13, 10/10,10/24,11/14,11/28,12/5 and 12/12. City Clerk’s Office | 2300 Civic Center PL, Miramar FL 33025

VISIT US AT

Get your free Miramar YOUCard today at City Hall, 2300 Civic Center Place or any of the 17 and counting participating businesses in Miramar! Call (954) 602-3129 or visit MiramarFL.GOV for more information.

The City of Miramar approves new P.A.C.E. program for home and commercial wind & energy efficiency improvements financing. For more information, log on to https://www.floridapace.gov/participatingcommunities or contact 866.558.3180.

WWW.MIRAMARFL.GOV | #ITSRIGHTHEREINMIRAMAR

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

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Legacy South Florida’s 40 Under 40 Black Leaders of Today and Tomorrow for 2016

Komi Agbodji Regional Banking District Manager Wells Fargo Bank

Edwige Clark Project Executive Hammes Company

Anelle S. J. Alfred, PhD Instructor Florida Atlantic University

Christine Beliard, PhD Director of Doctoral Programs in Family Therapy Nova Southeastern University

Kishon Clayborne Rachel Dailey, MBA, EA President/Owner Business and Tax Consultant Golden Krust (Auctus Rest Grp, Your Financial Solutions, Inc KlayRock, Golden Krust 5)

Rackeish C. Boota Air Traffic Controller Federal Aviation Administration

Phallon Bullard Property Manager Village Place Apartments

Anse Daniel, LMFT-S Mary V. Davids, MS-HRM CEO and Clinical Director Principal Consultant Enrichment Support Services, D&M Consulting Services, LLC LLC

Antonio Burgess, M Ed Instructional Coach Broward County Public Schools

Debon L. Campbell II.

Anya Cesar Interior Designer Anya Renise Design Group

Melissa Hunter Davis Publisher/Founder Sugarcane Magazine

Michael T Davis Attorney Law Offices of Benedict P. Kuehn

Paul Dumars, Jr. Chief Financial Officer Penn Dutch Food Center, Inc

Special Projects & Intergovernmental Affairs Coordinator City of West Park

Dr. Wendy J. Ellis Parks and Recreation Business Manager City of Miami Gardens

Albert Gibbs Sr. Field Services Manager Citrix

Michael Hicks Manager Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

Keva Johnson CEO Keva J Swimwear

Geralda Larkins Visionary Strategist Geralda Larkins Consulting/ Impart Kingdom Ministries

Douglas Lawson Entrepreneur Lawson Solutions

Heidi Ledgister-Richards, MPA Administrative Officer Broward County

Erica Lee Program Administrator Florida Department of Children and Families

Makissa Lewis, MS National Education Director National Women Veteran Association of America

Daphnie Lorvinsky Regional Account Executive Clear Channel Airports

Ducarmel Saint Louis, Esq. The Law Offices of Ducarmel Saint Louis, P.A.

Tsachai Sky Maduro Financial Advisor Sky Consulting Group

Debbie Origho Manigat, MS, DMFT(c) Program Specialist Children's Services Council of Palm Beach County Coach Debbie Motivates Mental Health Advocate

Suzette Maylor, Esq. Attorney/Journalist Fort Lauderdale Law Group, PLLC

Joshua Miller Executive Director C&I Studios

Brenda-Lea Morrison Community Leader Urban League of Broward County

Clarice Redding Green Dot Program Coordinator Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners

William Saintilus, Esq. Attorney Broward County Public Defender's Office

Marjory Sheba CEO MSG Financials

Faith Sims President TechMorale Corporate Wellness and Massage

Edwin Smith, DDS Dentist Next Dental

Michelle Jamison Smith, MD

Joseph Taylor, DC Chiropractic Physician Renewed Wellness

Lawonda R. Warren, Esq. Assistant City Attorney/Police Legal Advisor City of Delray Beach

Pediatrician, Director of the Continuity Clinic Joe Di Maggio Children's Hospital Pediatric Residency

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EXECUTIVE SUITE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

Dr. Christine Beliard: Director - Family Therapist - Educator - Community Leader

By Aisha M.

Dr. Christine Beliard, Ph.D. 2016 40 Under 40 Honoree Dr. Christine Beliard directs two Doctoral Programs at Nova Southeastern University within the Department of Family Therapy, and is the youngest and one of the only women of color in the country to hold such a position. Dr. Beliard's passion is to train therapists and work directly with

couples and families to help alleviate relational problems, especially in the African American community.

Christine is originally from Dallas and noticed that while there are so many children in foster care and families in need of counseling and family therapy, there were very few African American and Hispanic family therapists. This led her to pursue her Masters degree and Ph.D. in family therapy. She received her Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Spelman College. She earned her Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Florida State University in 2011. The same year, she was invited to join Nova Southeastern University as an Assistant Professor.

Dr. Beliard enjoys working as an educator helping students get their start in the therapy profession. She teaches Diversity, Ethics, Supervision, Group, Couples, Doctoral Seminar, Quantitative Research courses and Narrative Therapy in the Masters and Doctoral programs. She

also serves on dissertation committees and is the former faculty advisor for the college’s Graduate Student Government Association. Nova Southeastern University has one of the highest enrollments in the country for family therapy doctoral students. As she attends national family therapy conferences around the country, Christine notices very few minority therapists, which further fuels her to help educate and train more minorities in her field.

She has become a leader in own right in her field as well as the community. Dr. Beliard has spearheaded several social action initiatives, including launching her department's "Day of Service," which is held on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. On this day Nova students perform community service at the Broward Outreach Center.

She aspires to expand such community outreach projects with the community.

Christine is an advisory committee member for the S.A.M.H.S.A.'s (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) Family Therapy Minority Doctoral Fellowship Program. She also serves as the

“My advice would be for couples and families to find a support system that they can rely on, and be open to receive therapy and counseling.”

Faculty Advisor for the NSU Sigma Chi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Christine is married to David Beliard, who is also a graduate of Florida State University.

When asked what advice would she give to young married couples struggling to stay together or families who experience serious issues or turmoil, Dr. Beliard replied, “My advice would be for couples and families to find a support system that they can rely on, and be open to receive therapy and counseling.” Her future plans include doing more community outreach programs in underserved urban areas, and continuing to develop the next generation of therapists who are qualified to serve in such areas. For more information contact Dr. Beliard at cbeliard@nova.edu.

Subscribe to and view the digital version of Legacy Magazine

#Legacy40Under40 Kervin L. Clenance Group Publisher, Legacy Magazine Erica V. Knowles Editor-in-Chief, Legacy Magazine Denise St. Patrick-Bell PhD Copy Editor Toni Harrigan Intern

Albert Gibbs, Clarice Redding, Paul Dumars, Jr. , Anya Cesar, Michael Hicks , Geralda Larkins and Kishon Clayborne Photographer: Teekay

CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS "The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all hurt as long as anyone is held back."

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

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Legacy Magazine is accepting nominations for

OUR TOP BLACK EDUCATORS OF 2016 ISSUE.

Educators, administrators and individuals involved with educational programs that reside/work in Miami-Dade, Broward or Palm Beach Counties are eligible for nomination.

Please go to http://bit.ly/legacyednom and

complete your nominations by August 22, 2016

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ENTERPRISE

By Zach Rinkins

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

Mosaic Group’s Ann-Marie Sorrell Helps Redevelop South Florida Communities One Message at a Time

Ann-Marie Sorrell President and CEO of The Mosaic Group(TMG) The human experience is comprised of millions of moments. Some moments are inconsequential and others inspire us to take action. As president and CEO of The Mosaic Group(TMG), Ann-Marie Sorrell is in the business of transforming moments into valuable currency for clients who depend on her firm’s ability to increase awareness and credibility. It is evident that the

TECHNOLOGY

By HCIII

Yemani Mason CEO and Founder VestMunity Serial entrepreneur, web developer, online marketing expert and real estate investor Yemani Mason is starting VestMunity. This crowdfunding real estate company is positioned as the next monumental tech invention out of Silicon Valley but it is right here in South Florida and you too can become a major investor.

In the fifth grade, Mason won a

community is cashing in on the firm’s trailblazing methodologies by the diverse client roster that includes corporate, governmental, health-oriented and not-for-profit organizations.

“We initially started as a corporate events management firm, but we soon realized that we needed to expand into public relations and branding,” says Sorrell.

“We are not afraid to have boots on the ground and truly bring customized solutions to clients that include both traditional and nontraditional methods.”

The proud Pahokee-native says her firm is a full-service agency, with expertise in diverse markets, that allows its clients to stand out and reach target audiences including the important Hispanic, African-American and Caribbean consumers with the right media and the right messages. TMG counts the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), the City of West Palm Beach CRA, THE City of Fort Lauderdale CRA, Palm Beach Opera, Coastal Construction, among its many clients. She says organizations that don’t invest in their brands will have a challenging time in the

marketplace.

“The benefit of hiring firms like Mosaic is you get consistent access to a team dedicated to cultivating and creating ways for you to increase brand visibility,” she reveals. “Many organizations don’t have a person in-house to do that or they only have one or two people. We give you the team and intellect to implement those ideas over a long-term period.” The marketing maven attributes her success to hard work, determination, and always challenging herself.

“I never had a Plan B. I just focused on Plan A, put my head down, and worked,” she discloses. “I never worried about my competition. I always tried to focus on how we were going to get the next client and grow our business.” She adds: “We always challenge ourselves to top what we’ve done before.”

The Florida A&M University graduate says she loves when ideas evolve from conception to completion. “We are not satisfied until the client is satisfied,” she notes. “Bringing ideas to life and the clients being happy with those ideas is the most gratifying experience.”

Sorrell reveals that excellent messages, innovative products and exceptional experiences are the benchmarks of the Mosaic way of conducting business.

Excellent Messages: “The message is the most critical element of what we do.

We always scrutinize the messages that we are sending. We also consider what we are communicating and how that reflects on the clients and how their audience will receive that message.”

Innovative Products: “We want to make sure our clients stand out from the crowd.

We want to make sure our ideas are out-of-the-box. We ask ourselves, ‘Is this new and innovative?’ And, ‘How can we make this project better?’”

Exceptional Experiences: “We always try to anticipate the type of experience we are giving the client’s audience. We want make sure that everything their audience experiences from the brand, message, or event is always positive.”

Sorrell advises aspiring entrepreneurs to, “dream big, dream often and take action!”

Find out more at www.UpscaleByMosaic.com.

The Mason In The Tech-Estate Industry fundraising contest that sparked an entire wholesaleand distribution candy operation.

More so, he extended credit to its buyers and kept a weekly settlement account ledger in his composition notebook. This coming-of-age maverick grew to promote parties in High School at a local skating rink that grossed over $25,000 from its inaugural bash. He continued promoting in college. At Florida International University he began taking on a new venture to conquer, the Tech-industry, after building his very own computer.

Upon graduation, Mason found initial success in the tech field with BlackBerry, Chrome, and creating apps. With these towering business in the tech world, he was afforded a world-class education of booms and busts in technology.

Simultaneously, from his parents with West-Indian roots in the United States and Jamaica, Mason learned the value of real estate. As a side-venture, he reaped the benefits in the housing market.

In November 2015, Yemani Mason began to research the new rulings for crowdfunding in the Jobs ACT- Title III. The seemingly separate worlds of crowd

promotion, technology and real-estate, in which he had individually achieved great success, began colliding.

For background, The U.S. Law previously prohibited unaccredited investors earning less than $200,000 a year without a net worth of $1 million from investing in private companies in exchange for equity. However,now with this new ruling, crowdfunding finally allows an individual to invest in startups through online purchasing of equity securities in crowdfunded companies. Before, only if you were wealthy or a bank, could you invest in real estate like the stock market.

Now with the new rules on crowdfunding, you can pool smaller amounts of money online from large groups of people on the internet.

Mason began building his business the same way that many tech startup founders do -- at home, on his laptop, spending hundreds of hours coding on the blueprint to what would become VestMunity (inVEST and comMUNITY) for the masses. With VestMunity he is breaking down the barriers to entering the real estate market.

Mason's home state of Florida has three

of the top five national metro areas with distressed properties. He knows that by rehabilitating and reselling properties through VestMunity he can rebuild property values and communities. Recently, he was awarded $20,000 in seed money by entering a competition about his idea at the Miami Fintech Forum. The Forum was the first event in a nationwide collaboration between Citi Community Development Village Capital. The event’s objective was to bridge the opportunity gap for minority and women tech entrepreneurs taking on the challenges in financial inclusion, health and education.

Full disclosure, VestMunity has not yet fully opened and is still only accessible to accredited investors, but they are in the application process for the accreditation.

Once realized, Yemani Mason will give the power to the people to invest in their community and create a better society with VestMunity.

Learn more about VestMunity: Office: 1-844-837-8476 Email: team@vestmunity.com Website: www.vestmunity.com

POWER COUPLE

By Zach Rinkins

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

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The Smith Family Prioritize Family and Service to Others

Dr. Michelle Jamison-Smith and Dr. Edwin P. Smith The desire for love can be one of the most fulfilling, energizing and ambiguous journeys known to mankind. Many of us don’t always know exactly how to define love, but, we know it when we experience it. During his second year in dental school, Edwin Smith had an encounter with a medical student that made it clearer for him.

“We met at an annual party in the basement during our time at Columbia University. We connected pretty quickly and danced the night away,” Smith recalls.

“I knew I was in love when I started going to the dinner parties Michelle held for her friends. You know what they say about meals leading to a man’s heart.”

Fast forward five years, the recently married couple are both second generation health practitioners. Smith owns Next Dental, a North Miami Beach-based dental practice. Michelle Jamison-Smith is a general pediatrician with Pediatric Associations of Hollywood and outpatient director of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. The vibrant twosome agree a successful relationship requires a personal investment.

“Medical and dental schools are some of the most challenging things you can ever do. Not many people understand that.

During medical school, I remember telling Edwin I had to be at the hospital at 4 a.m.,” Jamison-Smith recalls. “He calls 30 minutes before I have to go to the hospital and tells me he cooked breakfast for me. A simple

and sweet thing like that let me know he was with me.”

Common respect is vital to sustaining a relationship.“Michelle is not only one of the smartest people I know. She is also one of the hardest working people I know,” Smith adds. “I think that one of the keys to being successful is being sharp. So, it was very helpful to have someone who could challenge me.”

Trust is also a critical ingredient to long-term union.

“The main thing that attracted me to Edwin was his strong moral foundation.

He is somebody who knows really deeply inside himself what’s right and wrong. And, he doesn’t waver from that,”Jamison -Smith reveals. “He has an unwavering persistence towards a goal. He is so focused and determined. It is easy to follow him and have him as the leader of our household.”

Then, there is faith.

“My wife did not come down to South Florida with a job. She basically looked at

the landscape and help create a job,” Smith adds. “Now she is a pediatrician at one of the nation’s largest private practices and she is helping to develop more pediatricians in the area connected with Joe DiMaggio’s Children’s Hospital. We really believe that if you put your faith in God, things will connect for you.”

And, with that faith the Smiths are looking forward to a bright future with an expansive center that includes an insurance agency, rehabilitation services, and other healthcare services.

“We are God fearing people. God provides the direction as long as we keep our hearts and minds open,” they add. “We never thought we would be here, but God makes things happen.”

The Smiths also expressed gratitude for their parents and mentors. They promise to pay it forward.

For more information on Dr. Smith’s practice log on to www.NextDentalCare.com.

Log on to www.JDCH.com, for more information on Dr. Jamison-Smith.

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THE BAUGH REPORT

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

We Need Young Leaders To Help Us Tackle Tough Issues

By Dr. Germaine Smith-Baugh

Dr. Germaine Smith-Baugh President and CEO Urban League of Broward County I find it really rewarding working with young leaders.

Our building is filled with them -- their energy, vision, passion and faith is around every corner and in meeting rooms. Our

young managers, staffers, volunteers and Young Professionals Network (YPN) take the initiative and set an example. They pursue their dreams, listen and observe, and possess empathy. They help make the Urban League of Broward County a dynamic, innovative and productive institution.

In reality, true leadership knows no age.

Leaders are people of any age who can accomplish and inspire something good for all of us to benefit from. It used to be that leadership was linked to years of accomplishments, promotions, honorary degrees and merit badges. Those days are gone, thankfully so.

Yet in looking around our building, as well as in working in our community, I see a lot of challenges facing our young leaders – big problems, years in the making, such as the breakdown of the family, violence in neighborhoods, the drug abuse epidemic, as well as the spread of obesity, poverty and global warming.

Many of these issues are the focus of Urban League’s key program areas:

THE MILLENNIAL BRAIN DRAIN

By Clarice C. Redding

Clarice C. Redding Victim Services Program Coordinator Palm Beach County When people hear the term 'millennial,' they typically think of young, privileged, 20 and 30-somethings, who spend a majority of their time on social media, blogging, and creating innovative ways to generate wealth. Rarely, if ever, is it mentioned that these budding professionals are also creating innovative ways to generate change, and impact their communities.

This past weekend, Florida's Urban League Young Professionals (ULYP) met in

employment, education, housing and health. We are committed to creating initiatives that individuals and families can use to get better jobs, improve their education, purchase their own homes, and gain more access to the health care system.

Our young leaders are critical to these efforts. That’s why YPN encourages its members to develop their leadership potential. We need them to dream -- and dream big -- to find solutions to these generational problems. The earlier they get involved, the more productive they can be in channeling the energy of their youth and carrying it through all the years that follow.

There are many ways to groom young leaders.

Let’s start with knowledgeable. Smart leaders are aware of the world around them, following global, national and local issues. Right now, young leaders have to tune in and follow our nation’s presidential race which is bringing attention to the most important concerns of our times.

It’s also important for young leaders to

develop self-awareness. They need to understand the impact they have on others around them. By working hard, staying positive and serving as role models to others, they can have tremendous bearing on the people in their lives.

Lastly, today’s young leaders need good character. People will want to work with other people who are patient, aren’t pushy or self-serving, and can be counted on to complete tasks and projects. Developing good character is a process of doing the right thing, over and over again. It’s much-needed in today’s fast world.

The good news: young leaders are all around us. I see them every day in my work. That gives me hope that we can continue to do great things in Broward County.

The Baughtom Line is this …Let’s all do our share to identify, mentor and support our young leaders. If we can inspire more of them, then our community will be chock-full of young people determined to use their dedication, compassion, and ambition to tackle our toughest issues.

FIGHTING THE BRAIN DRAIN

Orlando, FL to collaborate and brainstorm ways to further the National Urban League's goals and dedication to empowering communities and changing lives.

The National Urban League is the second oldest civil rights organization in America, originally dedicated to the economic development of underrepresented minorities in urban communities. In the 1980s and 1990s, affiliates believed that it was of the utmost importance to prepare the next generation of urban leaders. Young men and women in their 20s and 30s were invited to join the movement, launching the National Urban League Young Professionals in 1999. Their legacy of excellence in professionalism, service, and civic engagement continues today. As President of the Urban League Young Professionals of Palm Beach, I am proud to be a part of this prestigious group of young leaders, lending their time, talent, and education to empower their communities.

Florida is famous for being the home of the 'Brain Drain,' meaning that many brilliant minds will reside here to obtain their postsecondary degrees, but then

leave the state upon graduation -- taking their talents elsewhere. This poses a problem in terms of recruiting young professionals of color into careers across various sectors where minorities may be underrepresented throughout the state.

This drain is typically attributed to the state's supposed lack of jobs and affordable housing for young, single professionals.

However, Florida's ULYP members have been able to find success in the Florida job market, and want to assist others in doing the same.

The Florida chapters are leading the movement to draw young professionals of color back to the state, by offering them a personal and professional network of like-minded individuals across a variety of fields, and linking them with more seasoned professionals for mentorship and career opportunities. With that being said, Florida's ULYP chapters are reassembling a strong group of young Black professionals to gracefully transition into the next generation of leaders and change agents.

In 2012, the Palm Beach County Chapter began hosting an annual Florida ULYP members weekend retreat and conference surrounding personal development,

networking and personal enrichment. Over sixty of Florida's emerging leaders from various sectors -- including finance and banking, community development, education, engineering, law, health, and social services -- convened to plan, discuss, and execute strategies to enhance the communities in which their chapters are located. Amongst the chapters represented were Palm Beach County, Broward County, Central Florida, and Pinellas County (which covers Manatee and Hillsborough Counties). The topics discussed were how to secure a financial future, millennials running for office, the truth about entrepreneurship, a holistic approach to a healthy lifestyle and steps to reaching the executive suite. ULYP chapters were also able to share the successes of their service projects, youth mentorship and voter education efforts. Together, these chapters are dedicated to tackling and defeating the Florida Brain Drain.

If you are between the ages of 21-40, and would like to learn more about the Urban League Young Professionals of Broward and Palm Beach Counties, please visit www.nulyp.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

WELLNESS

@YesBabyILikeItRaw About 11 years ago I lost a family member to gun violence. To be more specific a police officer killed that family member. It was the age before hash tags and social media giants like Facebook and Twitter. However, it was such a high profile case that media outlets picked it up, the NAACP got involved, the mayor was at the funeral, protests took place, charges were filed and dropped, an officer was fired and a civil case was won. In 2015 my cousin would have been a hash tag, and because of the

trauma of his murder I feel and hurt in a different way when a new name is added to our list of hash tags. I know intimately what those families are going through; so more than being sympathetic I am empathetic to their loss. It is much harder to grieve when the media and community are scrutinizing your lost loved one and your family.

The truth is whether we want to admit or not we are at war. All wars are not overt like the crisis in the Middle East; we have a war on violence, drugs, equal rights, health care and the list goes on. On a larger scale collectively as people of African decent, the tragedies we have been experiencing are one more chip off of our already bruised heart. Anxiety has become commonplace.

We hope everyday that our loved ones come home safely. We hope when we hear about a crime that the criminal isn't black.

We often question and check our behavior to make sure we are not the stereotypes perpetuated in media. We are one millimeter away from breakdown. With months like July, topped with everything else we are processing, it’s a miracle that we have some resemblance of sanity.

Our mental health is in crisis. Most of us

are depressed but because of stigmas we will not acknowledge it. Depression in its simplest terms is a response to loss. No one can exist on this planet and not experience loss because with life comes death. Clinical depression is where it gets in the way of your everyday life. How do we maneuver through these highs and lows? Through intention, an intentional self-care practice to be exact. That is only way we can maintain our sanity. Social media definitely has its pros but the cons are sometimes evasive. We are being exposed to emotional and psychologically harmful content that only exacerbates the situation.

The following is a list of some self-care practices that help you maneuver through the feelings of hopelessness, sadness and anger.

"Anxiety has become commonplace. We hope everyday that our loved ones come home safely. We hope when we hear about a crime that the criminal isn't black. ... We are one millimeter away from breakdown."

Self-Care Practices During Times of War • Disconnect from social media • Un-friend individuals with unhealthy posts • Find ways to process stress (cry, meditate, counseling, dance, write, exercise, scream in a room by yourself, yoga) • Do something (volunteer, mentor, join an organization) • Talk to a friend For more information follow Nzingah on instagram @yesbabyilikeitraw and visit her website www.yesbabyilikeitraw.com.

District 34 State Senate Candidate Rep. Clarke-Reed Campaigns on Justice and Prosperity for All Floridians

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Self Care Practice During Times of War

By Nzingah Oniwoson

c l By Zach Rinkins

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Rep. Gwyndolen Clarke-Reed debates on the house floor.

State Representative Gwyndolen “Gwyn” Clarke-Reed was first elected to the Florida House of Representatives, District 92 in 2008, and continued to be reelected for three subsequent terms. She is now vying to serve residents of the recently rt redrawn District 34 in the Florida Senate.

“To the residents of District 34, I say this: As your senator, I will continue to fight against injustice and dual standards,” Clarke-Reed declares. “I will also fight for issues that continue to foster jobs,

economic development, infrastructure needs, clean water and everything that helps increase the quality of life for all Floridians.”

The experienced lawmaker says her ability to work with republicans helped her pass eight bills in the GOP-controlled legislature. She offers a full-time approach to serving her constituents.

“Even though this position is part-time, I find that being retired gives my constituents a huge advantage because I have the time to advocate for them and inform them,” adds the career educator. “I have been able to gain leadership roles in groups that successfully created legislation.

And, I’ve brought millions of dollars to my district.”

Prior to ascending to the state legislature, Gwyn served 12 years on the Deerfield Beach City Commission. During her tenure, she started a summer employment, career development, and mentoring program for youth ages 13-to-15. This program continues 22 years later.

“I count this program as my biggest

accomplishment. I am glad it has expanded and continues to serve young people,” she reveals. “Programs like this keep our children out of the justice system.”

Clarke-Reed, the vice chair of the Broward County Legislative Delegation, says overcoming obstacles offers her the greatest satisfaction.

“The biggest challenges in my district are unemployment, underemployment, re-employment and giving a second chance to people who might have had an interaction with the justice system. We also have to make sure that our education system has the resources, mentoring opportunities and support it needs to properly educate our children.”

She points out that it takes a collaborative effort to produce solutions.

“Leaders have to be able to listen and not always want to be in the front and be the director of everything. You have to be able to listen, sort out the facts, and re-direct all efforts towards accomplishing a goal. And, you must have the courage to say no.” she discloses. “Leaders must create solutions.”

Clarke-Reed’s candidacy emphases are education, health care, property taxes, affordable housing, transportation, youth development, veterans and senior services.

Her platform includes the following priorities: Gun Control: “We have a problem with gun violence that seems to be pervasive throughout the United States. There needs to be some action taken on a state level to curb gun violence.”

Education: “Early learning is my passion.

I’d like to see that Voluntary PreKindergarten (VPK) programs are properly funded. The early learning stage is critical. I want these programs to have the adequate resource to meet the needs of youngsters and give our children a very good start.”

Criminal Justice: “I want to make sure the Department of Corrections has all the resources they need to take care of our prisoners. And, I also want to restore former offender’s rights after they have paid their debt to society.”

Find out more at www.GwynClarkeReedforFLSenate.com

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

SMALL BUSINESS MATTERS

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUN SENTINEL

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The Power of Small Businesses and Why it’s a Good Time Start One

By Denise St. Patrick-Bell, PhD

Dr. Denise St. Patrick-Bell Fortune 500 companies represent two-thirds of the U.S. GDP with $12 trillion in revenues, $840 billion in profits, $17 trillion in market value and employ 27.9 million people worldwide. But according to the US Dept. of Commerce, small businesses contribute much more to the U.S. economy and society as a whole than can be calculated just from the spending and profit that they generate.

These businesses tend to be more economically innovative than larger companies; more able to respond to changing consumer demand; and more receptive to creating opportunities for women and minorities and activities in distressed areas.

What constitutes a small business? The SBA defines a small business as an enterprise having fewer than 500 employees. As of the 2010 Census, there were 27.9 million small businesses registered, compared to only 18,500 companies of 500 employees or more. The most important thing to note is that 99.7 percent of U.S. employer firms are small businesses, and fifty –two percent are home-based.

The small-business sector catalyzes economic expansion in ways which are generally overshadowed by the media focus on big business. Small businesses generate half the nonfarm output of the U.S. economy and employ about half of all Americans not working for government, while adding 60 to 80 percent of net new (non-governmental) jobs annually.

The small-business sector also contributes to social cohesion by serving as

an entry point into the economy for new or previously slighted workers. For instance, women-owned small businesses generate nearly a trillion dollars in revenues annually and employ more than 7 million workers.

Small businesses increasingly generate entrepreneurial opportunities for minorities, which census data show as owning 4.1 million firms that generate $695 billion annually and employ 4.8 million workers. Small businesses consistently bring economic activity to distressed areas; about 800,000 companies (90 percent of them microenterprises) are located in the poorest areas of the 100 largest U.S. cities.

Have you thought about starting your own business? Not sure where or how to start the process? Rest assured you are not alone. Most of us have dreamed of owning a business, but many more have abandoned their dreams of entrepreneurship. But the good news is that the number of black owned businesses has been rising steadily since 2002. The less good news is that although African Decent persons in the US comprised 13.1 percent of the 18 and older population in 2012, only 9.4 percent of all U.S. firms were black or African American-owned.

In December, 2015, the United States Census Bureau reported that based on its latest Survey of Business Owners, there were 2.6 million black or African American-owned firms nationally in 2012, up from 1.9 million or 34.5 percent from 2007.

So is this a good time to rethink your dream? Absolutely! With all of the resources available, business plan writing, technical assistance and coaching, microlending programs and grants, there is little reason not to pursue entrepreneurship. And our South Florida communities are ripe for black business growth. Since 2006 Florida has consistently ranked in the top 5 states in the number of black owned businesses. Nationally, Miami-Dade County is ranked fifth and Broward County ranked ninth. So take those business plans and ideas off the “later” shelf and start working them NOW. Dr. Bell is the owner of GAICON LLC and a Principal in Global Strategic Partners Alliance, companies dedicated to the growth of the non-profit and small business sectors from concept to capitalization.

For more information www.gaicon.net

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By Zach Rinkins

Group 15 Judicial Candidate Bradley Harper Promises Fairness, Journalism, and Dignity for All

Bradley Harper and family On August 30th, Palm Beach County residents will vote to elect a judge for Group 15. The non-partisan judge serves a six-year term. Sixth-generation Palm Beach County resident Bradley Harper’s bid promises an inclusive, humane and just approach.

“Justice is having a predictable process where the people involved—both on the winning and losing sides—feel that the process was fair, professional, and dignified,” Harper declared.

Amid recent nationwide tensions from incidents involving law enforcement

REAL ESTATE

By Barron Channer

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officers and Black citizens, some people may not have much confidence in the judicial process. Harper says it is a call for service-oriented leadership.

“Leadership is seeing areas or problems where I can use my skills to create solutions for the good of the greater community,” he explains. “True leaders serve their followers and listen to their needs.” He says judges have to step outside of the courtroom and educate the public.

“I think there is a divide and a gap in the way the broader public views the justice system and what goes on,” he continues.

“It is the responsibility of public officials, including judges, to work to bridge the gap between the stakeholders in the justice process and the broader public to ensure that people understand the process and feel that the process is fair.”

A desire to expand that sense of

fairness throughout the entire community inspired Harper to earn a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and a juris doctorate from the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law. “I recognized that most of the significant social, economic, and political changes in this country came through the legal system,” Harper discloses. “I want to be a part of bringing a positive change to my community. I felt that having the skills of a lawyer would equip me to do that.”

Bradley is a partner at the law firm of Powers, McNalis, Torres, Teebagy & Luongo, P.A. representing individuals, municipalities and corporations in complex civil litigation. He has successfully litigated hundreds of cases and argued numerous trials before judges and juries throughout Florida. He is also an accomplished appellate attorney and advocate, having argued and written appellate briefs all the way to the United States Supreme Court.

“My job as a lawyer is to deliver service and solutions to my clients. I pride myself in being acutely aware of my client’s needs and concerns,” he asserts. “I also want to

reach a resolution that is going to make them happy.”

Harper’s candidacy has hundreds of supporters including several elected officials, among them: West Palm Beach Mayor Geraldine Jeri Muoio; Delray Beach Mayor Cary Glickstien, Belle Glade Mayor Steve B. Wilson; and Royal Palm Mayor Matty Mattioli. The campaign also enjoys endorsements from many organizations like the Police Benevolent Association (Palm Beach County), AFL-CIO (Treasure Coast Palm Beach), and the National Organization for Women PAC of Florida.

“There is a need in our community for judges that are willing to work hard and to educate the public about the process.

There is also a need for a judiciary that reflects our diverse community in appearance and experience,” he says. “I am prepared to help create a justice process that people can be proud of.”

The married father of four wants to see a judiciary that expands technology, public outreach and community justice education.

Research Harper’s campaign at www.BradleyHarperforJudge.com.

Planes Need Runways and Fuel to Take Off and Fly

@BarronChanner In the business world, money is the fuel and time is the runway. Entrepreneurs often forget to calculate the amount of money and time needed to succeed because they are focused on planning and dreaming of how high the business will fly and where it will end. This is a natural instinct.

Remember that you need enough money and time for your business to take off and fly safely.

As the saying goes … you need money to make money. How much and what for are the meaningful questions. How much money is needed depends on your “burn rate”. This is the rate at which you need to spend money before the business begins generating its own money. During this period, you are “burning” through cash that is yours or was raised from investors and lenders. If you have not calculated your burn rate, then you cannot know whether you have enough fuel to fly safely. If a pilot did not know whether there was enough fuel, would you feel comfortable in the plane?

Calculating your burn rate involves estimating your future expenses. Business costs such as compensation for employees, fees for advisers/consultants, expenses for the office and marketing along with costs for equipment and supplies are primary components of your burn rate. However, it does not end there. Many people forget that the money needed to live is a part of

the burn rate. You are your first employee and need to be compensated. If you cannot pay your bills, then you cannot focus on building a business. If your investors and lenders will not provide money for you to pay yourself, then you need to figure out if you have enough savings to pay yourself while waiting for the business to begin paying off. Ask a simple question, would you feel safe in a plane if the pilot was more worried about how they will eat than flying the plane?

Time is the runway for your business.

Always assume that it will take longer than you expect to succeed. Conservative planning will reduce the chance of not having enough runway for take off. Loss of the money, time and your reputation are the penalties when your runway, even by only an inch, is too short to take off. The amount of money available and the burn rate are the primary factors that determine how long the runway will be for your business. Calculating the time needed requires that you make an educated guess about how and when the business will start making money. One way to reduce or

eliminate the time needed is to acquire a business that is already making money and build from there. Real estate investors are following this philosophy when buy existing buildings with tenants instead of building from scratch. Another approach is to line up solid paying customer(s) before starting your business. Real estate investors are doing the same when they pre-lease buildings before starting construction.

Good business people, like pilots, need to have a vision of where they plan to go and the ability to move towards the destination. It is just as important to always make sure there is enough fuel (money) and runway (time) to take off and complete the journey. The first step in success is to get off the ground safely.

"You are your first employee and need to be compensated.

If you cannot pay your bills, then you cannot focus on building a business."

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUN SENTINEL

MEDIATION/ARBITRATION AN ALTERNATIVE TO LITIGATION

By Stanley Zamor

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“Two Mountains Can Never Meet, But Two Men Can”

Stanley Zamor, President/CEO Florida Academy of Professional Mediators, Inc. “Two Mountains Can Never Meet, But Two Men Can” This is an old proverb that I sometimes reference during mediation. It denotes how even when stonewalled in adverse positions, men can still be moved to finding common ground. Conflict is inevitable. And when business owners find themselves in discourse such as vendor contract discrepancies, conflicts with employees, labor force issues or a partnership separation, filing a lawsuit is the customary response; but NOT the only response.

Mediation is a confidential and voluntary alternative to litigation that often has an amicable end not found in the court system. As a certified mediator I strive towards “Win-Win” outcomes that best suit the parties. This article will touch on only two aspects of mediation and introduce mediation as a means to resolve disputes. Future articles will focus on specific business disputes and how mediation and other alternatives to litigation, can be used as a valuable resource when dealing with business matters.

Mediation Provides Access and Can Preserve Relationships Mediation also offers access to legal services. The 2016 results of a Florida Bar commissioned report revealed that 80% of the public lacks access to legal services or legal representation. Wow! So only 20% of the public has access to legal services, yet there are over 100,000 licensed Florida attorneys. Mediation provides unbiased access to a balanced process that allows parties flexible opportunities to craft a resolution that they have control of.

Whether the parties are represented by an

attorney or not, access to mediation is always available.

Mediation can also preserve/mend a deteriorated business relationship, while helping to redefine roles between the parties. I’ve mediated between business entities where the plaintiff was suing for more than two hundred thousand dollars of unpaid invoices. The dispute became ugly and personal and a lawsuit was filed.

During the various months of litigation, these businessmen realized how they still needed one another’s services, due to the small business marketplace. So, through the mediation process, they were able to resolve the issue and preserve their personal relationship. They entered into a new acceptable contract and the matter was closed and case withdrawn.

Why Mediate?

The mediator’s role and function is to keep the process fair and balanced, while facilitating settlement discussions in a manner that is confidential and keeps the parties in control of the outcome.

Mediation does not, and will never replace litigation, that is not the goal of mediation.

Mediation is simply another option

available to those who many need another way to resolve a contentious matter. So, if you want to resolve a simple or complex dispute and save time, money and resources, mediation can be the alternative to litigation that meets your needs.

If you have a specific dispute thatyou would like me to respond to, please use the contact information appearing below and tell me about it.

Stanley Zamor is the 2015-2017 President/CEO of the Florida Academy of Professional Mediators, Inc. He is the youngest and first Haitian-American to hold this position. Mr. Zamor is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil/Family/County Mediator/Trainer and Florida Supreme Court Qualified Arbitrator.

Mr. Zamor serves on a number of federal and state mediation/arbitration rosters and has a private mediation and ADR consulting company where he mediates/arbitrates and facilitates workshops. szamor@i-mediateconsulting.com www.i-mediateconsulting.com www.LinkedIn.com/in/stanleyzamoradr (954) 261-8600

BUSINESS REPORT

Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council to Operate Miami MBDA Business Center That Will Help Minority Businesses Grow Exponentially

By Beatrice Louissaint

Beatrice Louissaint President and CEO Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council

The Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council (FSMSDC) is the new operator of the U.S. Department of Commerce Miami Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Business Center serving southern Florida. The center’s goal is to help minority-owned firms create jobs, develop their businesses and compete in the global economy.

The Center will help minority firms grow by providing access to capital, technical expertise, advanced business consulting resources and innovative management services. In addition, the Center’s Business Resource Lab will offer workshops and seminars, a computer lab and a business library. Annually, the goal of the Miami MBDA Business Center will be to help minority companies garner more than $111 million in procurement contracts and financial transactions.

Companies that are 51% owned or controlled by African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Asians and Pacific

Islanders, Native Americans (including Alaska Natives, Alaska Native Corporations and Tribal entities), Asian Indian Americans and Hasidic Jewish Americans are eligible for the services from the Center. Federal appropriations subsidize the services the Miami MBDA Business Center provides to clients. Fees which are based on the service provided and the client's gross sales will start at $10 an hour.

Since 2009, MBDA Business Centers across the nation have helped minority firms gain access to more than $31 billion in capital and contracts, while creating and retaining nearly 142,000 jobs. The Business Centers are integral to fostering greater economic vitality across the US. To learn more about the services of the Miami MBDA Business Center or to schedule an appointment with a business consultant, visit www.mbdamiamicenter.com or call (305) 751-2907.

Beatrice Louissaint is President and CEO of the Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council. The organization’s goal is to increase purchasing from minority businesses by government entities and corporations, while increasing Minority Business Enterprises’ operating capacity through hands-on business assistance, training and access to technology and capital resources. Founded in 1975 in southern Florida (formerly named the Southern Florida Minority Supplier Development Council –SFMSDC) and expanded to cover all of Florida in January 2016, it is one of 23 regional councils affiliated with the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC).

The FSMSDC acts as a liaison between corporate America and Minority Business Enterprises in the state of Florida. To learn more about the FSMSDC, visit fsmsdc.org or call (305) 762-6151.

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LEGACY BRIEFS August Marks National Black Business Month

Florida. Her region will extend from Pensacola to Jacksonville, Florida. The office serving northern Florida will be located in Tallahassee. For the first time, minority businesses will have an advocate in the state’s capital. Find out more at www. FSMSDC.org.

JoLinda Herring, Esq.

Frederick E. Jordan and John William Templeton A dozen years ago, black entrepreneurs Frederick E. Jordan and John William Templeton spearheaded an effort to declare August National Black Business Month. Their goal is to get local governments, community leaders and venture capitalists to help create a friendlier environment where black-owned businesses can grow, and to encourage consumers to visit at least one black-owned business on each of the 31 days of August.

With the celebration, the dynamic duo aims to promote economic development, achieving parity in black business formation, and decrease the disparity of black to white unemployment. Discover the movement at www.BlackBusinessMonth.com

Florida Memorial University appoints Attorney JoLinda Herring as chairman of its Board of Trustees JoLinda Herring, Esq., a lawyer in the Miami office of Bryant Miller Olive, was recently named Chairman of the Florida Memorial University Board of Trustees.

Herring’s passion for education and her desire to get involved in the community led her to join the Board of Trustees in 2007.

As a member of the Board, she provides guidance on policies to the university and assists with fundraising campaigns for the school, the only historically black university in south Florida.

As Chairman of the Board, Herring plans

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

T. Leroy Jefferson Medical Society celebrates Nation Health Center Week with community health fair

to work with the university to increase enrollment, to energize supporters of the school throughout Florida, and to complete a successful capital campaign. Find out more at www.FMUniv.edu.

FSMSDC welcomes new Northern Certification and Corporate Services Manager Rachel Favors

Rachel Favors, FSMSDC Certification and Corporate Services Manager Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council (FSMSDC) is pleased to welcome Rachael Favors as the new Certification and Corporate Services Manager for the Northern Florida region.

Rachael has over a decade of experience working with the Florida Legislature and has worked in various industries including customer service and housing.

Favors will continue FSMSDC’s mission of linking corporations and government agencies with certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) to foster business development and expansion in Northern

Darin Woods

The T. Leroy Jefferson Medical Society (TLJMS) will kick off National Health Center Week Celebration by hosting its 16th Annual Community Health Fair on Saturday, August 6, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. (Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.). The event will take place at FoundCare’s Health Center (located at 2330 S Congress Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33406) and will have guest speakers, a host of medical offerings such as immunizations, screenings, complimentary back-to-school physicals, family-fun activities and more. While the health fair is free to all, it focuses on offering health care and education to underserved, uninsured and at-risk community members.

For more information about TLJMS and the health fair, visit www.TLJMedicalSociety.org or call 561-318-0814.

Everyday Praise with Darin Woods WHIM 1080 AM “The Answer” presents a new radio program called “Everyday Praise with Darin Woods that airs Monday through Friday 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm.

Everyday Praise is a fresh, new radio format that speaks to the multi-cultural South Florida Christian audience and beyond. It delivers the best in urban and contemporary gospel music while delivering uplifting inspirational community talk radio to it’s targeted listening audience.

Darin Woods has over 30 years of music industry expertise. He is an accomplished songwriter, producer and musician who loves playing lead guitar and keyboards.

Several years ago he volunteered as a guest gospel radio personality on WEDR, 99 JAMZ, Sunday morning, “Inspirationally Yours” program.

He is an inspirational orator with a heart for Jesus, his family and his community.

With those qualities, “Everyday Praise with Darin Woods” will positively engage its South Florida listening audience!

WE NEED YOU! South Florida Black Business Directory

Crystal Mathis | Jimmy Nickerson Concerns in the community have caused South Floridians to create a solution centered around the “Black Dollar”. It is said that a dollar only circulates within the black community for 6 hours. Directed by marketeers, Crystal Mathis and Jimmy Nickerson, leaders meet weekly at Signature Cigars in Miami Gardens to discuss a web-based South Florida Black Business Directory. Set to release in December, the directory will shed light on thousands of legitimate Black owned businesses in Miami-Dade and Broward County; thereby increasing the longevity of the Black Dollar’s time in its community.

To list a business or to join the discussion, email chanel_mathis@hotmail.com or jimmy@jnickmg.com, and a directory form and informative details will be sent to you.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

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The City of Miramar Offers Exciting Programs for Our Residents and Business Community

We're certain you've switched gears with the kids out of school in camp, playing sports, enjoying family time and perhaps catching up on things you hoped to do during the year but just didn’t get a chance.

It’s the same here for us as City employees.

We continue to work diligently, ensuring we are focused on all things important to our residents and business owners.

Here’s an update: During a recent meeting, the Commission voted unanimously to approve an initiative called the P.A.C.E Program for Home and Commercial Wind & Energy Efficient Improvement Financing.

P.A.C.E. stands for Property Assessed Clean Energy. Home and business owners are eligible to equip their properties with wind and energy efficient improvements through special financing with approved industry leaders. The programs provide upfront capital to property owners that allows improvements to their properties with refinancing paid through a special, non ad-valorem assessment levied on the property and repaid annually on the property owner’s tax bill. P.A.C.E financing

can be repaid without penalty in advance or in increments of five to twenty-five years at the home or business owner’s consent, depending on the lifespan of the improvements made to the property. For more information about the P.A.C.E. program, please visit www.floridapace.gov or call 866-558-3180.

To help bridge the digital divide, we have developed another partnership program available to Miramar students called Internet Essentials™ from Comcast.

This program brings affordable high speed internet to the home at a reduced price if your child is enrolled in a Miramar School and is eligible for the National School Lunch program. The City’s website has additional details about signing up for this valuable program for your children. When school starts in August, let’s make sure all of our children are ready to kick the new year off with all the tools they need to succeed.

Visit the City of Miramar's website at www.miramarfl.gov for information about these and all the other wonderful programs offered.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

There’s power in every story.

We believe every voice deserves to be heard. And the greatest untold story is your own. Wells Fargo’s MyUntold Story Collection celebrates voices from every generation across the African American community and we encourage you to share your story. We proudly shine a light on an enduring legacy of triumph, spirit, and achievement simply because African American history is American history.

Watch the stories and share your own at wellsfargo.com/myuntold.

© 2016 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. (2880003_18526)