2017 25 Most Influential and Prominent Black Women in Business and Industry -Legacy South Florida

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

South Florida “Providing News/Information and Connecting Florida’s Black Affluencers and Influencers”

25

Most Influential &

Prominent Black Women in Business and Industry for 2017

Subscribe to and view the digital version of Legacy Magazine and view additional articles at http://bitly.com/legacymagazines

Editor’s N O T E

Facebook: Facebook.com/TheMIAMagazine Twitter and Instagram: @TheMIAMagazine #BeInformed #BeInfluential #EducationIssue Dexter A. Bridgeman CEO & Founder Russell Motley Editor-in-Chief Zachary Rinkins Editor-at-Large Yanela G. McLeod Copy Editor Shannel Escoffery Associate Editor Yanique DaCosta Art Director

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.”

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development www.broward.org/econdev Bus One www.bus-one.com City of Fort Lauderdale Community Redevelopment Agency www.fortlauderdalecra.com Guardian Ad Litem-Broward www. galbroward.org JM Family www.jmfamily.com Miss Jessie’s www.missjessies.com Prime Cigar www.primecigar.com/miami-florida SMART GAL Productions The School Board of Broward County www. browardschools.com Seacrest Services www.seacrestservices.com

While recently reading an article, I was reminded that in 1920 – less than 100 years ago –women in America gained the right to vote. Keep in mind that although Black women (and Black men for that matter) had the right to vote, they were restricted in doing so by Jim Crow laws, black codes and the threat of violence by opponents of social and political equality.

In spite of the institutional limitations, black women such as civil rights activist and journalist Ida B. Wells and Mary McLeod Bethune, who founded the Daytona Literary and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls in 1904 (later to become Bethune-Cookman College in 1923), emerged as female trailblazers and examples for future generations of black women.

Today it is encouraging to know that multitudes of Black women are blazing trails throughout Miami, as you’ll see in this issue of Legacy South Florida’s 25 Most Influential and Prominent Black Women in Business and Industry.

One common thread I’ve observed among Legacy’s latest honorees is their humbleness and their use of the platform in their respective fields to impact lives.

During the recent photo shoot for the magazine cover, the energy in the room was powerful and infectious. It was clear that these women, sporting their best power suits, had several things in common – the ability to network, share ideals and, just as importantly, laugh and enjoy themselves.

Let’s congratulate them, encourage them and hold them accountable for inspiring Legacy South Florida’s next generation of Influential and Prominent Black Women in Business and Industry.

Russell Motley Legacy Editor-In-Chief

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

BB3

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

The Honorees

25

Most Influential & Denise Albritton President/Owner BUS ONE, LLC

Prominent Black Women in Business and Industry for 2017

Betty Davis

Chief Meteorologist WPLG TV

Michelle Hollinger Publisher The Sisterhood

Michaelle Pope

Executive Director, Student Support Initiatives Broward County Public Schools

Latonja Eppinger

Charli Flanders

Founder Cupcake Galleria Dessert Shoppe

Simone Kelly

Shenetria Moore

Rhonda Rogers

Executive Director Lake Worth West Resident Planning Group

Managing Partner M.D.Stewart & Associates, Inc.

Tracy Clark

Chief Information Officer Smart Gal Productions

Author and Coach Own Your Power Communications, Inc.

Miya Burt-Stewart, PhD

Sabrena Cooper

Chief Public Information Officer Broward County Public Schools

Social Worker Palm Beach County, Division of Senior Service

Natosha Gonzales

Maxine Hamilton, M.D.

Owner Southern Spice Franchising, Inc

Dorothy Nelson

Owner SHE Holdings, LLC

Teacher Bethlehem Preschool and Junior Academy

Shelby Rushin

Ann Marie Sorrell, MBA

Media Personality Cox MediaGroup-99Jamz

Kimm Campbell

Director Broward County Human Services Department

CEO The Mosaic Group

Internal Medicine Physician Tenet Florida Physician Services

Andrea Pelt-Thornton

Sheila Chamberlain, J.D.

Aviator (Pilot) and Aviation/Aerospace Hall of Famer , Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals/Tuskegee Airmen, Incorporated

Miesha Shonta Darrough, J.D.

Assistant United States Attorney United States Attorney’s Office- Southern District of Florida

Anjanette Hanna

President and Chief Operating Officer Seacrest Services, Inc

Kasandra L. Phillips

IT Business Solutions Group Manager NextEra Energy / Florida Power and Light

Circuit Director 17th Circuit, Guardian ad Litem Program

Tina Teague

Victoria Worship

President/CEO Tina Teague Insurance Agency, Inc.

Territory Manager Syneron Candela

BB4

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

BROWARD MAYOR REPORT

By Broward County Mayor Barbara Sharief

As an advanced registered nurse practitioner, I have seen prostate and breast cancer on the rise in our community. Mammograms are important for women over the age of 40. You should have a mammogram every year even if you have no history of breast or other cancers. Previously it was thought that breast cancer was occurring only in those with the

EDUCATION

By Superintendent Robert W. Runcie, Broward County Public Schools

Our kindergarten students who entered Broward County Public Schools on August 21, are the graduating class of 2030! Because we do not know what the world will look like in 13 years, we must prepare our students to be successful in a world experiencing rapid rates of change driven primarily by globalization, technology, and global warming.

These forces compel us to revisit the purpose of public education.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

Health Screening Important in African-American Community gene, but now we know differently.

Nearly 75 percent of all new diagnosed cases of breast cancer have no family history of the disease.

While mammograms are uncomfortable, the 30 minutes of discomfort is worth a lifetime of prevention and cure. Symptoms of breast cancer include a lump in the breast, bloody discharge from the nipple, and changes in the shape or texture of the nipple or breast. Some people report redness or swollen lymph nodes.

Others report no symptoms at all.

This is why it is so important to have regular mammogram screenings.

In the Caribbean community, prostate cancer is prevalent. Many African American and Caribbean men avoid screening and do not find out about prostate cancer until it is too far-gone or has spread to other areas of the body. Prostate cancer typical-

ly enlarges the prostate gland and creates uncomfortable symptoms.

Symptoms of prostate cancer include burning or pain during urination, difficulty urinating, or trouble starting and stopping while urinating. More frequent urges to urinate at night, loss of bladder control, decreased flow or velocity of urine stream and blood in urine are other symptoms.

While some of these symptoms can be present in other non-cancerous conditions such as BPH or enlarged prostate, and urinary symptoms caused by an infection or other conditions, it is better to be safe than sorry. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you should have your Prostate Specific Antigen, PSA, levels checked annually as this test can be useful in diagnosing early stage prostate cancer. Additionally, prostate cancer can be diagnosed

through Digital Rectal Examination, in which a doctor inserts a gloved lubricated finger into a man’s rectum and feels the surface of the prostate for any irregularities.

Yes, I am writing this column in hopes of motivating our African-American community to be engaged in their health through proper health screenings. Yearly physicals and mammograms are necessary to prevent deaths related to cancer in our community. End 2017 right by making a commitment for the New Year to take care of yourself in every way.

Commissioner Barbara Sharief, MSN, ARNP Broward County Commission District 8 115 S. Andrews Avenue, Room 437C Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Phone: (954) 357-7008 Fax: (954) 357-5704

Moving Forward On The Right Path Now is the time to expand our thinking from “college and career readiness” to “life readiness.” Lifeready students will enter the world with agency to navigate their own success, demonstrate critical consciousness to connect school to lived experiences and societal structures in order to make a positive impact on the community, and continue to be independent learners who can solve real world problems.

Most of all, we want our children to grow and achieve happiness and positive relationships in a diverse international community. Preparing students to create the world we need begins at BCPS, where we provide a rich “portfolio of choice” for our students and families. Across our district, there are incredible learning opportunities for our students.

There is nothing traditional about our innovative district schools. There

are more than 160 innovative and magnet programs, many of which are recognized as the best in the country including: Cambridge, International Baccalaureate, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics + Computer Science, Robotics, Music, Performing Arts, Debate, Dual Language, Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, Technical & Industry Certifications, Athletics, and much more.

These programs carry our students on to more than 600 colleges and universities in America and around the world each year.

We are making great progress in our schools with increased academic achievements, graduation rates that are the highest in five years, and advanced placement pass rates that are the highest in a decade.

We have incredibly dedicated teachers, administrators, and staff working hard every day to support

our students and give them the confidence and skills to achieve their dreams in this dynamic world.

Finally, public education is undergoing significant challenges from state and federal policy agendas that pivot toward privatization. These challenges are opportunities for us to reimagine public education and create a more hopeful vision for 21st century learning. We must design our system around engagement, connectedness, belonging, and empowerment of our young people.

We look forward to continuing to work with educators, students, families, and communities to redesign learning environments, in and out of school, that are targeted at each young person’s culture, lived experience, and access to opportunity.

Every child has a gift for the world.

Let’s work together to help them unwrap it!

Broward County Public Schools . offers something for everyone • High-Quality Instruction • Certified Teachers

• Before and After School Child Care

• Personalized Learning

• Athletics, Music and Art

• No Tuition

• After School and Summer Programs

• Free Mobile App • Free Breakfast

• Digital Classrooms • Dual Language Programs

• Computer Science Courses • Scholastic Chess and Debate Programs • Broward Virtual School • McKay Scholarship • College Academy

APPLY NOW!

MAGNET PROGRAMS • NOVA SCHOOLS • REASSIGNMENT Now – February 7, 2018

MAGNET

70+ Themed Programs

K-12 NOVA CAMPUS

REASSIGNMENT

1 Campus • 4 Schools

Schools Districtwide

School Choice Explore your options

browardschools.com/schoolchoice Demographics and Student Assignments 754-321-2480 • schoolchoice@browardschools.com

Established 1915

BROWARD County Public Schools

BB6

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

CONGRESSWOMAN’S REPORT

By Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson

Advancements in technology have made the world smaller. Humans travel farther and faster than ever before. We have the ability to communicate face-to-face with anyone anywhere in the world. Yet, we seem to be losing more of our humanity as we gain more technology.

I am often asked by young people what they should do in order to

POLITICS

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

Wanted: Millennials to Bridge Gap Between Past and Future attain elected office. My answer is invariably the same – be of service to your community and humanity. The importance of selflessness cannot be overstated as we embark on a new era of artificial intelligence and automation. By our next generation we could no longer have cars driven by humans or need devices to communicate. Human employment could become obsolete. It is critical to future human development that we emphasize the importance of investing in others through sharing our time and talents.

It is not hyperbole to say the Millennial Generation is the most important to preserving humanity.

Millennials have seen the extinction of some technologies and the rise of others. The vast majority have never

owned a home phone, but also have never lived without Internet. The obsolescence and birth of technologies during this generation is unprecedented.

In that context, this generation is the last to learn from their parents about technologies that lasted for decades like cars, broadcast television, and landline phones, and teach their children about others that became outdated within years or months.

Millennials are also the last generation to have parents who may have lived during the segregation era and Civil Rights Movement. A common theme during those periods of American history was an emphasis on service and civic involvement.

Major successes in passing landmark legislation and creating social chang-

es would not have been possible without accentuating activism.

That spirit of action and service led to many civil rights leaders and organizers of that generation to enter into public service. I am confident that the same spirit will imbue the Millennial Generation and produce many bright, sincere elected officials, community organizers, and social activists who will be the “Voice of the Voiceless.”

Millennials are the bridge between our past and future, and they will define the direction of human evolution. I urge this generation to shoot for the stars on a rocket of change that is powered by service to others. I am excited by the boundless possibilities and look forward to your many successes.

The Fool’s Gold of No Party Affiliation

changing the system from within the two-party system.

Running away from the Democratic Party will not change the system. In fact, it would disempower Black political power and embolden the status quo. If you voluntarily decide not to participate in partisan primaries, then you have ceded your power to the very parties you despise.

There is a long dark history to this form of Black voter suppression in

By Chris Norwood the South. For many years, white So often we have discussions about supremacist forces successfully “how Black folk need to start their excluded Black voters from primaries own party” or better yet, “we need in the South, until Thurgood Marshall to register as Independents – No Par- argued and won the Smith v Allty Affiliation.” Why create self-inflict- wright case before the U.S. Supreme ed Black voter suppression when we Court in 1944, 10 years before Brown have been fighting for voter empow- v Board of Education. The Democratic erment for centuries. Political progParty would not allow Black folk to ress comes from staring the beast vote in their primary, as most of the straight in the face, mastering his southern states during that time. technique, and with that knowledge, The Democratic Party argued it was

not violating civil rights because the Democratic Party was a private organization and Black folk could vote in the General Election.

Today, Black voter suppression takes form in restricting voting of formerly incarcerated Americans. Leroy Jones, founder of the grassroots advocates Brothers of the Same Mind, and Neighbors and Neighbors Association (NANA), a coalition of inner-city businesses, spent many years serving his community. He hoped one day he could show his brothers that they too could get their rights restored and vote. This just happened on October 17 in Tallahassee by the Florida Clemency Board.

Jones is a product of Miami’s projects, a former drug addict and felon who went to prison three times. The people who determined whether Leroy could vote were four Republicans who were all candidates in Repub-

lican primaries. The Florida Clemency Board, made up of the governor, commissioner of agriculture, attorney general and chief financial officer, are all partisan-elected officials. Governor Rick Scott changed the automatic restoration of voting rights for nonviolent offenders.

If you think political party is not important, then go ask Leroy and then ask him to now limit his voting power to mostly predetermined general elections!

When you affiliate with a party you can still vote your conscience in the general election. Therefore, excluding yourself from primary elections minimizes your voter power over the long run. For me, it’s a no brainer to be party affiliated with whichever party you like. Voting in primaries is extremely important. If it were not, we would not have had to ask the U.S. Supreme Court to win that right.

•••

FORT LAUDERDALE

�

I

VILLAGE D STRICT HISTORIC SISTRUNK • PROGRESSO • FLAGLER

INVESTORS & DEVELOPERS FORUM FORT LAUDERDALE VILLAGE DISTRICT IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS! Our 3 distinct neighborhoods - Historic Sistrunk, Progresso Village, and Flagler Village invite you to invest, expand, relocate, or develop your next project in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. Incentive programs are available to new and existing business owners.

THURSDAY• MARCH 29, 2018 8:00AM - 11:ODAM

Midtown Commerce Center SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE:

1033 Sistrunk Boulevard • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

Fort Lauderdale Village District Overview & Tour - 8:30 AM Fort Lauderdale Village District Trolley Tour - 9:00 AM (multiple tours)

RSVP AT WWW.FORTLAUDERDALECRA.COM CITY OF FORT LAUDERDALE

Presented by the Northwest-Progresso-Flagler Community Redevelopment Agency

BB8

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

MILLENNIAL

Millennial Opioid Epidemic Versus Generation X Crack Epidemic

drugs from opium, an active ingredient in the poppy flower, which includes morphine, heroin and codeine.

Though opioids are prescribed mainly to relieve pain symptoms, they can have negative effects including drowsiness and physical need.

To combat opioid abuse, the U.S. Senate on July 12, 2016 voted to send

By Angelita Nicolas opioid legislation known as the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Millions of millennials are battling Act (CARA) to President Obama for opioid addiction at an alarming his signature. CARA indorses many rate. In fact, they are three and four times more likely to die due to opioid evidence-based interventions that have the potential to more effectively overdose. address opioid dependence and save Opioids encompass all natural, synthetic and combination versions of lives.

PALM BEACH REPORT

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

I remember another epidemic that occurred with Generation X in the 1980’s, which was treated as a criminal justice issue. Back then, lives were cut short and a wealth of potential was lost on a generation of black youths due to crack addiction.

The government poured no resources for intervention into low income families. President Ronald Reagan choose to crack down on crack-related crimes. In 1986, Congress passed the Anti-Drug Abuse Act establishing mandatory minimum sentences for those convicted.

I believe policy makers missed an

opportunity to better understand the crack epidemic and lift the stigma of addiction in what appeared to be inequality among races, which further causes a racial disparity.

Both epidemics are health issues.

Those that suffered from the crack epidemic have a right to a restorative justice package. Families were torn apart; young men and women were sent to prison and now have criminal records because of an addiction.

Criminalization only makes addiction worse. We should all be committed to helping all addicts in a kind and supportive environment, regardless of race or creed.

Riviera Market at Marina Village welcomes Residents, Visitors with Local Food, Crafts, Entertainment and More

re-launching of the Market.”

The public can enjoy waterfront views while strolling the promenade, shopping unique items, and savoring a variety of fresh local foods on this weekly event held every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. until April 29, 2018.

After RBCRA’s multi-million dollar investment, the Riviera Beach Marina Village opened on February 2016. It

By Ann Marie Sorrell has become a premier visitor destiOn October 15, the City of Riviera nation in Palm Beach County. ConBeach Community Redevelopment veniently located by the intercostal Agency (RBCRA) welcomed residents and less than one mile away from and visitors to the revival of the the beach, the Riviera Beach Marina “Riviera Market at Marina Village,” Village is a paradise that serves as located at 190 E. 13th Street, Riviera the perfect start to a day. This new Beach, 33404. and improved redevelopment project “Since the transformation of the enhances the lifestyles and health of Marina Village, we have welcomed a thriving community. This year, the many community residents and modern and vibrant Marina Village is tourists,” said Scott Evans, interim the home to this family-friendly and executive director of the City of intimate market.

Riviera Beach Community Redevelop“During this winter season, resiment Agency. “We are excited for the

dents and visitors will have a place to do local shopping near the city’s waterfront and enjoy a variety of family-oriented activities,” Evans added.

More than 40 farmers, food, artisan, and commercial vendors will partake in this refreshing new market. The market offers a variety of artisan goods, fresh produce, local honey, home goods, accessories, clothing, and more.

Marina Village, a 23-acre property, also features public and private dinner cruises along the coast; fishing charters; outdoor events; and the Marina Event Center, a perfect venue for meetings, weddings, and special occasions. On-site beaches are also accessible at the Marina Village where visitors and water lovers can escape to Peanut Island.

Marina Village offers convenient water taxi transportation to the 80-

acre island oasis that offers beaches, a snorkeling lagoon, campground, picnic pavilions, and more. It is also one of the safest all-weather inlets on the east coast, featuring floating wet slips that can accommodate 140 vessels up to 120’ and offers boat owners amenities such as Wi-Fi, onsite fueling, and laundry facilities.

RBCRA’s future plans for the Riviera Beach Marina Village include a waterfront “Restaurant Row” and mixed-use facilities with a hotel, offices, retail shops and additional parking.

For more information about the Riviera Market at Marina Village, visit www.marinavillagepalmbeach. com, email rivieramarinamarket@gmail.com or call (561) 881-7438. To learn more about the Riviera Beach Community Redevelopment Agency, visit rbcra.com or call 561.844.3408.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

MEDIATION/ARBITRATION

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

BB9

An Alternative To Litigation: Getting What You Want in Mediation

pressionless face. Something recently happened, and that something was not good.

As each side gave its opening statement they mentioned the results of a Summary Judgment hearing that took place just two hours prior to the commencement of this mediation.

The judge made a partial ruling that enabled both parties to claim some sort of victory.

In short, for more than three years of litigation, multiple businessmen in two consolidated cases spent millions

By Stanley Zamor of dollars with prominent law firms SET THE STAGE to keep pushing their positions until As the parties entered the room, the eve of trial. But now, after long I stood smiling and welcomed each eloquent statements outlining how person as they took their seat around the law supports their positions, I the conference table. I stood at the asked them something that seemed head of the table and observed the to perplex the entire group. “Now perfectly coiffed group of 10. They all that we have heard each perspective seemed to share the same blank, ex- and how right each party thinks it is,

what do you want?” They all agreed that they wanted finality. I said, “Good. Then let’s get to work.”

AT THE READY One of the difficult defining points of mediation is to reduce barriers in communication. Litigation is innately adversarial in tone and process. Mediation conversely encourages collaboration while reframing the tone of the dispute to where parties may feel able to design their own resolution.

Mediation will not replace litigation. It is simply an option that works when parties need an alternative.

Legal rights and duties are important, but many times when parties are given a neutral space to express what they want, they are able resolve issues themselves.

THEIR WANTS: So, what did these disputants want and did mediation give it to

them? After a five-hour mediation, the disputants created an agreement that satisfied their desire to: 1. Have someone admit wrongdoing and be held accountable 2. Be able to move forward and beyond their business dispute 3. Take the lessons learned and establish better systems to protect themselves from future litigation 4. Recoup a portion of monies spent on legal fees 5. Make more money in a smarter way Stanley Zamor is a Florida Supreme Court certified Circuit, Family, and County Mediator, a Primary Trainer, and Qualified Arbitrator. szamor@effectivemediationconsultants.com www. effectivemediationconsultants.com www.LinkedIn.com/in/stanleyzamoradr (954) 261-8600

BB10

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

Bus One Driven to Serve Customers and Community

By Zach Rinkins

Lyft, it was not in our best interest to continue to press forward in the limo space,” Cotman-Albritton explained.

In 2007, the Albrittons sold the nearly 20-year-old company and challenged themselves to find a new venture that would allow them to capitalize on their background and experience. The couple then started Bus One, a bus charter company.

Bus One Diamond Denise Cotman Albritton The Palm Beach-bred businessFor Denise Cotman-Albritton and woman says adaptation and dedicaher husband, Thomas “Mike” Albrit- tion to growing their enterprise are ton, serving the South Florida com- necessary for achievement. munity is both business and pleasure. “We took some concepts from the “Transportation was our subject limousine company and started our matter expertise,” Cotman-Albritton bus charter company,” Cotman-Albritsaid. “We realized that people still ton explained. “My husband and I needed to move groups of people used to drive our clients from here to around.” wherever they needed to go. We had For 20 years, her husband owned one bus. I’d ride in the jump seat and Limo Limo, a rental and transport serve as tour guide.” company that enabled customers to Bus One has evolved into the largtravel in a cost-effective way. est minority, women-owned charter “With the emergence of Uber and bus company in South Florida. It is THE BAUGH REPORT

licensed to transport riders from all South Florida seaports and airports.

It also offers charter services including shuttles and tours. It transports students to field trips and summer camps, and counts Palm Beach schools, private and corporate vendors, and local conferences among its clients.

The couple was able to expand Bus One after receiving a tip about a local university needing transportation services. With three coaches, they applied for the opportunity and were awarded the contract over a much larger competitor that had a fleet with a few hundred coaches.

“After working with the university’s athletic department, we built our business from there,” Cotman-Albrittons shared.

She advises entrepreneurs to make customers a priority and to maintain a quality company brand. “All of our

buses have a diamond on them.

When you see that diamond, you know it’s Bus One.” For the Albrittons, it is important for a company to understand its business model and employ prudent financial practices. “Transportation businesses are run very differently from other businesses,” she explained. “You have to be able to carry your business. A broken transmission could cost us $9,000, which may not be a budgeted expense. But, you have to manage that and pay your employees and subcontractors.”

Maintaining government licenses and industry protocol is also critical.

“Our industry is highly regulated,” she revealed. “It is important to us that we meet Department of Transportation requirements and standards. We make sure all of our drivers and anything connected to our business is up to code and standard.”

African-American Women, Please Step Up Because We Need You

of businesses owned by African-American women has grown by more than 300 percent since 1997, making African-American women one of the fastest-growing groups of entrepreneurs in the U.S., according to Fortune magazine.

Given the chance, African-American women can be a driving force in leading our community in solving our biggest challenges. Right now, one

By Dr. Germaine Smith-Baugh of those challenges is helping local We need to create more opportu- families who were left with signifinities for African-American women cant property damage and economic to lead in our community, especial- hardships when Hurricane Irma swept ly now in wake of Hurricane Irma. through South Florida in September.

Here’s why.

I am proud that some African-AmerFirst, African-American women are ican women have become deeply the most educated segment of the involved in community restoration United States population, according work. I know this personally. I worked to the National Association of Educa- with Broward County School Board tion Statistics.

Member Dr. Rosalind Osgood, and Secondly, we are six times more Dillard High School Principal Casandra likely than other groups to start our Robinson to help launch the “Restore own businesses. In fact, the number 954” initiative that has focused on

response, recovery and relief services for those most impacted by the hurricane.

It all started with a few phone conversations and resulted in food giveaways for thousands of people. In addition, “Restore 954” has provided hundreds of individuals and families with access to disaster relief programs, financial education, employment services, and public benefits screening.

As part of the initiative, the Urban League of Broward County canceled our 2017 “Agents of the Future Red Gala” and redirected the event’s budgeted funds to support “Restore 954.”

Yet, in order to continue the assistance, we need more involvement from the community, particularly from businesses. This is where African-American businesswomen can make a huge difference.

I invite our women to help us with

providing housing, healthcare, education, employment, and other essential services to people who continue to suffer from the wreckage caused

by Hurricane Irma. We need your expertise and leadership.

And yes, there are resources available to help African-American women grow their businesses so they can contribute further to our community. For one, the Urban League of Broward County’s Entrepreneurship Center offers a wide range of business development services, including capital.

Learn more about our center by calling 954-584-0777 or visit us at: www.ulbroward.org/smallbiz.

When we consider how far we as women, especially African-American women, have come, we should all be extremely proud of our accomplishments as well as our extraordinary impact on society.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

BB11

TEAM UP Broward is a Win-Win for county Entrepreneurs

By Zach Rinkins

Broward’s Board of County Commissioners recently approved, scoring an 8-0 commission vote, the creation of the “TeamUP Broward” Mentor-Protégé Pilot Program designed to forge relationships between established businesses, local certified small businesses, and community partners. The program is scheduled to begin in March 2018 and continue for one calendar year. The Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) will spearhead the program’s implementation. Potential Protégés and Mentors are now needed and application is due by January 5, 2018.

“This program represents the culmination of many years of effort by a variety of partners,” shared Jasmine Jones, OESBD‘s Public Information Officer. “It will only be successful with a wide-ranging partnership between

our office, mentoring businesses, willing protégés, supportive financial institutions, and other key stakeholders.”

TeamUP is a part of Broward County’s commitment to promoting and maximizing access to contracting opportunities for its County Business Enterprises (CBEs), Small Business Enterprises (SBEs), Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), and Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (ACDBEs). This pilot program will only target the participation and growth of Protégés in the Construction and Professional Services sectors.

“Securing appropriate and dedicated community partners is crucial to fulfilling the program’s goal and making a positive impact within our local business community,” Jones informed.

The program will provide an opportunity for eligible protégés to receive

developmental assistance in business operations and technical areas from experienced mentors and local service providers. Mentors and other partners will coach participating protégés in the area of its core capabilities to compete and perform as contractors or subcontractors on procurement programs with Broward County and beyond.

“Community partners need to be willing to devote time, staff and resources to sustain the program. The requested commitment, in contrast to the anticipated benefits, will be minimal; with their support, we foresee realizing maximum outcomes for all involved,” Jones added.

During the 12-month pilot program, mentor candidates will be limited to seven experienced firms that are productive in their respective areas of work or service. OESBD may approve up to two protégés to each mentor.

The Pilot Program Protégé candidates should be certified by OESBD in its small business programs; however, the program may expand to include other non-certified small businesses.

Ultimately, the program supports the County Commissioners’ values of ensuring economic opportunities for Broward’s diverse population and businesses through retention of existing Broward County businesses and the potential to grow business capacity through mentoring relationships, resulting in retained and increased employment across industries.

For more information about the Team UP Broward Mentor-Protégé Pilot Program, email TeamUpMPP@ broward.org.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR PRESIDENT

ANJANETTE HA NNA

for being recognized as one of

LEGACY MAGAZINE’S MOST INFLUENTIAL LEADERS!

“We made these products with love for your natural and curly hair.”

MISSJESSIES.COM

Leading Your Community Into the Future

SEACRESTSERVICES.COM MIA Magazine AD congrats.indd 1

11/17/17 4:05 PM

BB12

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

CAREER LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

5 Career Tips Every Black Woman Should Know

Black Woman Stigma. Ever notice how Scandal’s Olivia Pope will listen to whomever is attempting to “read” her? If you pay close attention, you will see her initial expression and eyes tell you that she is furious.

However, right before she opens her mouth to respond, she gives this fierce smile and then goes all

By Mary Davids in. She allows her educated, skilled Black women hold the fastest and knowledgeable tongue to do the growing postsecondary graduation speaking rather than letting her neck rates in the U.S. That’s according to the latest data from the U.S. Depart- and fingers control the attention of ment of Education’s National Center the conversation.

2. Find a Mentor, Be a Mentor. for Education Statistics. But even When asked how she manages being with degrees in hand, black women a black woman in Corporate America, are less likely to hold higher paid Hallandale Beach Chamber of Comoccupations. merce CEO Norma Jules says, “Finding a mentor has been very helpful HERE ARE FIVE WAYS TO ESCAPE RACIAL ROADBLOCKS ON YOUR WAY for me. I always make sure I’m open to receiving from people who are TO THE TOP: 1. Learn How to Avoid the Angry more seasoned than me.” A mentor

FORT LAUDERDALE CRA

By Ann Marie Sorrell

In the 1930s, Fort Lauderdale’s first black surgeon, Dr. Von D. Mizell, co-founded the Provident Hospital – the first black owned and operated general hospital that provided surgical and medical care for Black residents in Broward County. Years later, the 15-bed medical facility became a city-owned community center, the Mizell Center, located at 1409 NW 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, 33311.

Since the 1980s the Center has been home to the City of Fort Lauderdale Housing and Community Development Division, the Irma Hunter Wesley Child Care Center, and local non-profit organizations such as the Fort Lauderdale Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and Sickle Cell of Broward County. Since relocation of the NAACP, most of the building remained vacant, which was recommended in order to repurpose the facility as part of the redevelop-

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

can help you stay on track with your goals, especially during those most pivotal moments within your career.

Not only should you find a mentor, you should also become a mentor.

Once you make it into that room, you have an unspoken duty to reach back and open that door for another black woman to enter in as well.

3. Establish Trust Early On. Use curiosity to your advantage. Being a black woman climbing the corporate ladder already comes with added scrutiny. You can expect your nonblack colleagues to try and figure you out, study you, and test you so they can confirm the stereotype they carry in their minds. When they engage, do not resist. Welcome them. Become who Michelle Obama is to George W. Bush. Greet people with a warm embrace, learn what their interests are, and make it easy for them to engage

in conversation with you.

4. Take Charge of Your Own Career. Please understand that Human Resources is not going to help you elevate your career. Designing your own career path is vital in getting you closer to reaching your career goals.

Relying on others to do you favors or using their connections to get you into the room may help a few times, but you will need to take your own initiative to unlock those doors as well.

5. Work Smarter not Harder. It has been said we need to work twice as hard to get ahead and black women need to work even harder. That is a slavery mindset. Always come prepared to every meeting, arrive on time, and do not give anyone a reason to assume you are not qualified to do the work you are capable of doing.

L.A. Lee Family YMCA to Revitalize Mizell Center and Spur Development in Historic Sistrunk ment plan for the Historic Sistrunk neighborhood.

On August 22, the L.A. Lee Family YMCA was awarded $10 million from the Northwest-Progresso-Flagler Community Redevelopment Agency (NPFCRA) to revitalize the Mizell Center. This revitalization was part of NPFCRA’s Five-Year Program. One of the goals of the Five-Year Program is eliminating slum and blighted conditions in the areas near downtown Fort Lauderdale and northwest Fort Lauderdale.

For more than 70 years, the YMCA in Broward County served the Fort Lauderdale community with diverse programs for all ages, abilities and financial circumstances. The YMCA’s purpose is to provide programs and services that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility that result in strengthening the foundations of the community.

The YMCA will utilize the new

development to expand current programs, engage the community in the development of programs and services that meet their needs, and increase economic development in the community. The YMCA will name the center the L.A. Lee YMCA Mizell Center in order to preserve the rich history of the center and the community.

The 14,000 square-foot family center will be used to continue that YMCA’s historic legacy by providing programs that help youth deepen their positive values, motivation to

learn, and commitment to service.

The facility’s new design consists of four floors that will include child development and youth zones, an outdoor play zone, gymnasium, wellness and aerobic space, a theater, as well as retail and community offices space that will increase job creation in the community.

The revitalization of the Mizell Center also aligns with NPFCRA’s goals and vision, including the redevelopment of vacant properties, strategic redevelopment of large and underutilized sites, and creation and implementation of area wide design guidelines. The NPCRA provides a sustainable development plan that has a positive impact on the district and improves the lives of the residents, as well as attracts new visitors and development to the area For additional information about the NPFCRA, visit fortlauderdalecra. com or call (954) 828-6130.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

BB13

About T O W N

Miami Gardens Mayor Oliver Gilbert weds Pandwe Gibson on Oct. 1 in Miami.

And so it begins, the wedding of the year, the bride and groom become one

The Bride is swept off her feet by her groom

Love is an art and Pandwe and Oliver have mastered it

The bride enjoys some quiet time before the big moment

Gilbert’s groomsmen enjoy pre-wedding cigars

Work Together, Love Together

Mr & Mrs Oliver Gilbert with Oliver Gilbert IV

A dreamy gentile setting for the wedding dinner

Are you?

(866)341-1GAL or www.guardianadlitem.org

BB14

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

About T O W N Legacy Magazine was a proud media sponsor of the 2017 Miami Book Fair, Nov. 18-19, Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus, Downtown Miami.

Dr. Tameka Hobbs, Dr. Angela J. Davis

Dr. Angela J. Davis

Christopher Norwood

Dr. Tameka Hobbs, Lauren-Brook Eisen, Robbie Bell, Dr. Angela J.

Christopher Norwood, Michael Eric Dyson

Michael Eric Dyson

Simone Kelly, Alex Segura, Steph Post, NBC 6 reporter Darryl Forges

Simone Kelly, Steph Post, Alex Segura

The 2017 Legacy Magazine Palm Beach 40 Under 40 Mixer, Nov. 17, Hilton West Palm Beach.

Legacy Palm Beach 40 Under 40 honorees and friends

Novice Johnson and Stephane Elias

Ann Marie Sorrell and Russell Motley

Dexter Bridgeman and Lorin Burke

Dexter Bridgeman, Pam Keith, Sharma Reece, Dr. Alexia Rolle, Dr. Adam Ramsey

Dave McLeod and Dr. Adam Ramsey

Ann Marie Sorrell and Sharma Reece

Kathleen Barreau

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE MIAMI HERALD

LEGACY BREIFS PROJECT 12 CALENDAR SHOWCASES POSITIVE BLACK MALE IMAGES SHE Holdings CEO Shenetria Moore remembered being divinely inspired to promote positive images of Black men serving and succeeding in their community. The company released its fourth annual calendar and resource guide to accomplish that mission. Moore noted that showcasing everyday fathers, blue collar workers, and husbands was just as important as highlighting athletes, doctors, politicians, and lawyers. She touted PROJECT 12 as the only printed media in Palm Beach County highlighting and honoring African American Men. Find out more at www.facebook. com/project12calendarunveiling/

tistic centerpiece in the city’s Thrive Innovation District. OLCDC commissioned acclaimed artist Hank Willis Thomas’ ‘All Power to All People,’ and placed it at the north lawn of Town Center Apartments. The more than 800 pound, 8-foot-tall afro pick is cast in aluminum and finished with a high gloss black coating. The artistic masterpiece is topped with a clenched fist often associated with strength, unity, and black power. For more information about OLCDC and Hank Willis Thomas, visit www.olcdc.org or www.hankwillisthomas.com.

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI HIRES HOLMES AS ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT AND DEAN OF STUDENTS Longtime education administrator Rodney C. Holmes, Ed.D., recently assumed the associate vice president and dean of students position at the University of Miami. Holmes is a recognized leader in identifying and managing the complex trends in student campus life and higher education overall. Holmes oversees judicial affairs, Greek affairs, campus chaplains, crisis management, and student-community relations. He also coordinates support and services for veteran students and the Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education. He is also a graduate of Loyola University of New Orleans, University of Maryland College Park (M.A.), LaSalle University (M.A.), and the University of Texas El Paso (Ed.D.).

BB15

Marc H. Morial noted, “Minority-owned businesses are the fastest growing segment of small businesses in this country and yet they face many challenges ---- access to capital being one of them. The National Urban League is pleased to expand our national partnership to Florida.” Find out more at www.iamempowered.com.

NORTHWEST COMMUNITY GARDENS REINTRODUCES ITSELF AS STATE’S FIRST LEED-ND CERTIFIED COMMUNITY The Housing Authority of the City of Fort Lauderdale (HACFL) recently showcased the transformed North2018 west Community Gardens SustainCalendar/Resource Guide able Neighborhood (NW Gardens), Palm Beach County 4th Edition located at 1204 NW 8 Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. The 658-unit community DUDLY’S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES features six community gardens, an CELEBRATES SEVEN YEARS OF urban farm, YAA ArtHOUSE, clubMULTI-MILLION DOLLAR SUCCESS house activities (Y-Fit), and more.

Dudly’s Professional Services (DPS) HACFL CEO Tam English declared, has been delivering branding and “HACFL is building a new generation project coordination services to of affordable housing in Fort Lauderindividuals and businesses since dale. With over $300 million invested URBAN LEAGUE OF BROWARD 2010. Clients hire DPS for diverse to date, we continue to fulfill our COUNTY JOINS COALITION TO offerings including professional LAUNCH CAPITAL ACCESS FUND FOR mission to provide clean, safe, decent licensing services, Owner Controlled MINORITY-OWNED FIRMS affordable housing and to connect Insurance Programs and Contractor those we serve to all that Fort LauMorgan Stanley, National Urban and then there were 12........

Controlled Insurance Programs docderdale has to offer.” For additional League Urban Empowerment Fund, ument coordination, small business National Development Council (NDC), information, expertise reporting, showcase display and the Urban League of Broward visit www.hacfl.com. coordination, web design and so County (ULBC) combined efforts to OPA-LOCKA’S THRIVE INNOVATION much more. Since its launch, DPS launch an historic initiative to provide DISTRICT SERVES AS CANVASS FOR has reportedly worked on projects minority owned businesses in Florida TO BE CONSIDERED for ‘ALL POWER TO ALL PEOPLE’ for Miami Marlins Ball Park, Miami Legacy Briefs, please email greater access to capital through the In the Opa-locka Community DevelChildren’s Courthouse, most recently, Capital Access Fund (CAF). Through your professional promotons, opment Corporation’s (OLCDC) effort the American Airlines Arena totaling the partnership, CAF and the ULBC’s appointments and announcements to redevelop Opa-locka into a desired $5 million. The Miami-Dade Chamber Entrepreneurship Center will expand to Editor-in-Chief Russell Motley at destination to live, work, create and of Commerce recently honored the rm@miamediagrp.com. its efforts to promote sustainability, play, the corporation unveiled an ar- company. Find out more at about create jobs and build community DPS at www.dudlyservices.com. wealth in Florida. UL National CEO Saluting African American Male Leadership in Palm Beach County

Nominate an Achiever Today!

The African-American Achievers Awards, now in its 26th year, recognizes those who have inspired others through their hard work, commitment and compassion.

An independent panel of judges from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach

Save the Date

African-American Achievers Awards

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

counties selects honorees in the following categories: Arts & Culture ★ Business & Entrepreneurism Community Service ★ Education

Nominate online at

Broward County Convention Center

AfricanAmericanAchievers.com

For more information, visit AfricanAmericanAchievers.com, call 866-516-2497 or join us on

Deadline is December 1, 2017

Facebook.com/AfricanAmericanAchievers.

Sponsored by

For more information, visit AfricanAmericanAchievers.com, call 866-516-2497 or join us on Facebook.com/AfricanAmericanAchievers.