INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SENTINEL | FRIDAY, JANUARY 2015 AN AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUNSUN SENTINEL | FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 30, 2015
Black History Month Issue
Black History Month Honorees: The South Florida Alumni Drum Majors of Florida A&M University and Bethune Cookman Bishop Henry Fernandez, and Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Frank Adderly Motown The Musical and Alvin Ailey to Perform at Broward Center The Race for Mayor of Miramar Heats Up And More...
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AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUN SENTINEL | FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Broward Celebrates its Centennial with Year-long Events By Mayor Barbara Sharief Broward Celebrates its Centennial with Year-long Events By Mayor Barbara Sharief Happy New Year! Did you know…Broward County will turn 100 in 2015? Broward County has begun a yearlong celebration (October 2014 through October 2015) comprised of regional events and community activities that will pay tribute to the County’s past, present and future and promote Broward County arts on a global scale. Programming will raise the awareness of the unique attributes of Broward County and provide an opportunity to use the arts to engage local artists, businesses, residents and visitors. If you know of a Broward County resident who is 100 years old or older in 2015, we would like to honor them during our Broward 100. Broward 100 commemorates Broward County’s centennial with bold, innovative art and performance projects to attract visitors and bring Broward residents together using our arts, sports and recreation venues, natural attractions and incredible diversity to creatively
bridge, bond and build their communities. Broward 100 is framed by four distinct cornerstones of community engagement: VisualEYES, Inside Out Broward, Calendar 100 and Duende. VisualEYES encourages connectivity and community engagement through a series of public art works. The goal of the Broward 100 Mural Project is to create artworks that are located in all sectors of the community with the clear and artistic message that the visual arts are essential to a strong community. Broward artists will build on existing community pillars to create a legacy for years to come. VisualEYES will also engage galleries and museums to create opportunities to showcase artists and build new social bonds through public art. Inside Out is a global art project that gives communities all over the world a platform to express themselves through black and white photographs. Inspired by Parisian street artist JR and his largeformat street pastings, Inside Out gives everyone the opportunity to share their portrait and make a statement by capturing a collective message through head
Barbara Sharief, MSN, ARNP, Broward County Commissioner, Commission District 8
shots of individuals, which are printed on posters, pasted on public spaces and archived online. This global platform allows people to tell their untold stories and transform messages of personal identity
into works of public art. Calendar 100 is a yearlong listing of centennial-specific events October1, 2014 to October 31, 2015 centrally located on a comprehensive, online Broward 100 calendar. Submit a new event to be sanctioned, or evolve your current annual events into an official celebration of Broward 100 Celebrating the Art of Community. Duende [(art); \ dü-’en-(,)dā\ a quality of passion and inspiration; a spirit; having soul, a heightened state of emotion, expression and authenticity] will bring together Broward County’s diverse talent in a countywide finale in October 2015, through a mosaic of art, culture, and entertainment. Our first Duende will launch an annual signature event to showcase the talent of Broward County, create global connections and set the stage for the next 100 years. To find out how to nominate a Broward centenarian, participate, volunteer, or have your event listed as an official Broward Centennial event, visit: broward100.org or email: broward100@broward.org.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015 | AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUN SENTINEL
By Dr. Mia Y. Merritt
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Three Compete in the Race for Mayor of Miramar
The beautiful City of Miramar is the 4th largest city in Broward County and home to over 128,000 residents in the South Florida metropolitan area. For the past 16 years, Lori Moseley has been at the helm as the City’s Mayor, but her incumbency is currently being challenged since her four-year term is up. What’s interesting about those vying for her seat is that both of her opponents have served as Miramar City Commissioners as recently as 2014. Wayne Messam, a current Miramar City Commissioner since 2011 and Alexandra Davis a former Miramar City Commissioner since 2010. Both believe that they have what it takes to be the next Mayor of the fine city of Miramar.
Mayor Lori Moseley
Mayor Lori Moseley has been a Miramar resident for over 30 years. With her retail background, she embraces the philosophy that, “The customer is always right” and keeps that in mind as she serves the residents of Miramar as an elected official. She states, “As a public servant, it’snot about me, it’s about serving the residents and business community in Miramar.” Lori has served as a Miramar City Commissioner for 4 years and as Mayor for 16 years. She prides herself on some of her accomplishments including her
Commissioner Wayne Messam
contribution to having the Youth Enrichment Center, the installation of the pool next to the Civic Center and her activism and partnership with the police department. Through her efforts, all of the schools in Miramar now have Resource Officers. Currently, she’s prioritizing methods to get more police officers into the city. She states, “As an elected official, public safety is a priority.” Moseley says that the City has always had plans to finance a 30 million bond for a new police station, but she opposed adding an additional 30 million dollars to build an amphitheatre, conference center and other things that other commissioners wanted. She states, “As an elected official, we must be fiscally responsible and adding another 30 million was fiscally irresponsible.” When asked if she thought that her 20 years of experience will give her an advantage, she responded, “I am hoping that my 20 years of knowledge, experience, education, proven leadership and follow through on the vision of yesterday, today and tomorrow will get me re-elected.” Lori is happily married for 36 years and has two adult children.
Commissioner Wayne Messam has lived in Miramar for 15 years. He is the business owner of a construction management company called Messam Construction. He was elected to the Miramar City Commission in 2011 and in March 2015, he will have completed one complete term. As a City Commissioner, one of his first accomplishments was that of having the procurement code rewritten, which he states had not been revised in over 20 years. Messam also prides himself on advocating for financing of 60 million dollars towards funding of projects, which are currently the lifeline of the City. Messam quotes, “Mayor Moseley opposed the 60 million dollar bond money and did not vote for it.” The bond dollars have solved the problem of building a new police headquarters, funding the new substation on the east, and renovating dozens of citywide parks. Messam wants there to be no mistake about the fact that it was he who took the political initiative of identifying those bond dollars. Messam is happily married to his wife of 17 years and they have three children. Alexandra Davis has been a Miramar resident for 25 years. She is currently a teacher at a charter school in Miramar and says that teaching children is another way for her to serve. Davis served as a Commissioner for two terms, but never completed a full term. Her first term was only two years because she completed the term left by Vice Mayor Barbara Sharief when Sharief ran and won a County Commission seat. Davis’ second term was not completed because she relinquished it to run for Sharief’s commission seat, which she lost. Davis returned after the defeat and has decided to run for Mayor of Miramar against both the incumbent Moseley and fellow col-
league Messam, whose names were already listed as candidates. Davis said that one of her greatest accomplishments as City Commissioner is the creation of Caribfest, a Caribbean non-profit organization that hosts a Caribbean cultural festival in Miramar every year. The event draws a cross section of people with diverse backgrounds including English, French, Spanish and Creole. Davis stated, “I noticed there was a void in the community when it came to cultural diversity and I wanted to fill that void.”Prior to getting elected, Davis sat on the Planning and Zoning Board and worked in public service for Miami Dade County for 18 years. “I have a heart for service and I left my job in Miami-Dade County to serve the residents in the great City of Miramar.” Davis has one son who attends Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) and is working on a Doctorate Degree. The race for Miramar’s Mayor is indeed an interesting one, but we will have to wait until March 10, 2015, Miramar’s election date, to see who will be the next Mayor of Miramar, FL.
Alexandra Davis
City of Miramar Election Day March 10, 2015
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AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUN SENTINEL | FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015
BLACK HISTORY MONTH HONOREES
Leaders in Charge: The History of the South Florida Drum Majors
Fedrick Ingram
By Dr. Mia Y. Merritt Many would agree that the heartbeat of a college band is commanded by the leader blowing the whistle: The Drum Major. As impressively entertaining, the role is equally intense. For former bandleaders at two Historically Black Colleges and Universities, it was an honor to provide fans with endless hours of unforgettable shows. “The head drum major is responsible for all points of entertainment on and off the field.” said Kevin “Bemo” Moyd, former Associate Drum Major with Florida A&M University’s Marching 100. “It was a humbling experience that I will forever cherish” responded Kenneth “TC” Harris, now a Social Worker, when asked about serving as leader of the Incomparable Marching 100. He states: “Once the fans saw orange and green, and the majestic hats and capes, they went crazy! The “Hundred” which is the band’s nickname, had long gained national fame. At the end of hours upon hours of perfect
practice, band members longed to hear the words of the late Dr. William P. Foster. Precise preparation was crucial. Once we heard, Gentlemen, I believe the ‘Hundred’ is ready! That signature statement was followed by the band’s effervescent response, ‘Hubba Doc!’, which was a form of excitement and accomplishment that simply indicated we were ready. Traveling to Miami for the final game was the highlight of the season. Despite fans coming to the Orange Bowl to watch the football game, the majority were there to witness the captivating 14-minute half-time show.” A longtime Miami tradition, the Orange Blossom Classic was held during the first week in December from the early 1940s until 1978 and was the final game on the Rattler’s roster. “We were in awe, because spectators arrived from all over the world to see the Hundred” Harris recalled. The 1977 Classic is deeply cherished by Moyd, an Executive Sales Manager with WMBM 1490 and Willie “Turk” Hayward, also a former Associate Drum Major, and now a Mail Carrier. Historically, this was the first time that three FAMU drum majors from Miami marched together under the leadership of Head Drum Major Kenneth Harris. From the opening of the pre-game show with the “slow one” a very dramatic death march, to exiting the field in the “rattler,” a fast marching cadence of 320 steps per minute, the Marching 100 delivered to their fans as promised. To Attorney Larry Handfield, former Head Drum Major of the Marching Wildcats at Bethune Cookman College (now University), the Orange Blossom Classic was a rich part of Miami’s history. Floridians looked forward to the parade, and it was a time for the Black community to come together. “As head drum major, it was a very demanding role, because you found yourself being the leader and responsible for leading by example.” It was also a great opportunity for me because I was able to travel the country performing. Fedrick Ingram, President of the United Teachers of Dade, and a former Head Drum Major at
Bethune Cookman College, valued the hard work, ethics, high demand and amount of time required to perfect the performances. As section leader, he achieved a major accomplishment, but when asked about the coveted experience of being a drum major, he expressed, “It was nothing short of fantastic. It is a chapter in my life that I will always treasure. So many people look up to you, but I had to stay grounded, enjoy the experience and cherish the camaraderie of the brotherhood and sisterhood. The band teaches values that you can take with you for the rest of your life - strength, discipline, leadership and how to get to a certain degree of success.” He also stated that his very best friends today are closer because of the ups and downs of the band program. It made them stronger and strengthened their bond. To this very day, Fed is still very much connected to Bethune-Cookman and boasts that the current band director is one of his best friends. Fed is responsible for sending many students to Bethune-Cookman University’s band program as well as
other colleges and universities around the nation, who have consequently gone on to do very well. Needless-to-say, the history of HBCU college bands is rich, and brings us together as a people, teaches discipline, tenacity and excellence, all core values that are needed for success in life.
“We were in awe, because spectators arrived from all over the world to see the Hundred”
From left to right: Gary “Slim” Brown, Kenneth “T.C” Harris, Willie “Turk” Haywood, Michael “Black-Eye Peas” Morris
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BLACK HISTORY MONTH HONOREES Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Franklyn C. Adderley - Community Builder
Chief Franklyn C. Adderley, Fort Lauderdale Police
By Shelly-Ann M. Parkinson
On June 1, 2008, Fort Lauderdale native and proud product of Broward County Public Schools, Franklyn C. Adderley, became the 1st African American Chief of
rose up the ranks serving as a narcotics detective, sergeant, captain, the 1st African-American Major, and assistant chief. As police chief, he now oversees the entire department with an annual budget of $93 million, 515 sworn police officers and 190 civilian employees. Legacy Magazine (LM) asked Chief Adderley (FA) to speak to our readers about his thoughts on the importance of being a role model, issues facing local Black and African-American communities, and the relationship between law enforcement and young Black men in particular. LM: Please remark on the importance of being an African-American in a position of such authority. Do you feel an additional sense of responsibility as a role model to others? FA: It is important that an African– American who serves as police chief recognizes the value of balance. Not only does that individual need to maintain a positive working relationship with members of the African-American community, it is imperative that they maintain a positive relationship with every other cultural group that is represented in the jurisdiction in which they serve. In Fort Lauderdale, our City’s Mission Statement is “We Build Community.” Recognizing the majority of the people we come in contact with on a daily basis are
not engaged in criminal activity, it benefits everyone that we establish positive relationships with the public. As an African-American serving as Police Chief in the City where I was born, raised and have been employed for the last 35 years, I am automatically considered a role model. I live in the same neighborhood I grew up in, and every day, I engage a group of individuals that live in my neighborhood, attend the same schools I attended and have aspirations of one day pursuing careers in law enforcement. LM: What issues do you find to be the most pressing and of the most concern in the local Black and African-American communities? FA: Juvenile delinquency, which goes hand-in-hand with dependency, is crippling our Black youth. Most kids find themselves in situations where they have no control. The lack of supervision and lack of a structured environment forces them to engage and develop relationships with older individuals that are actively involved in criminal activity. I believe it is imperative that members of the criminal justice system work together to create a structured environment and assist those in need of help by providing them an opportunity to be successful. LM: With the recent concerns about
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the relationship between law enforcement and young Black men in particular, do you have any thoughts or suggestions as to how policedepartments can build better bridges? FA: Not knowing what bridges are torn down in other jurisdictions, I can only speak for the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. In our commitment to “Build Community,” our police department is engaged with our youth. We were the first law enforcement agency in Broward County to have a mandatory Juvenile Citation Program, which provides first-time misdemeanor offenders an opportunity to receive counseling as opposed to being criminally prosecuted in the criminal justice system. We have partnerships with our local branch of the NAACP, fraternities, sororities and homeowners associations to create mentoring programs that have proven successful in building positive relationships with our African-American youth.
“In our commitment to Build Community, our police department is engaged with our youth.”
Henry Fernandez Charges People to Embrace ‘God Moments’ By Zach Rinkins Bishop Henry B. Fernandez is an anointed speaker, author, and entrepreneur. Fernandez answered the call of God on his life in 1985 when he moved from Brooklyn, New York, to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. In 1988, he became an ordained minister and went through the ranks of becoming a bishop. The celebrated evangelist says he was prompted to leave the Big Apple for the shores of South Florida by what he calls a “God Moment.” “I distinctly heard the Lord tell me to go to South Florida,” said Fernandez, Senior Pastor of The Faith Center in Sunrise, Florida. “Now, some thirty years later I have grown tremendously. Walking by faith and embracing my ‘God Moment’ has truly developed my character. I am a totally different man.” Over the past three decades, Fernandez has been busy maturing in ministry and expanding services to the South Florida and global communities. In July 1991, Fernandez and his wife Carol, founded a modest ministry in the cafeteria of a local elementary school with only 11 members. Now known as The Faith
Bishop Henry B. Fernandez, Senior Pastor, The Faith Center, Sunrise Florida
Center, the church is housed in the former “Sunrise Musical Theater” serving more than 10,000 members. “The bible says, ‘without faith it is impossible to please God’,” Fernandez shared. “I want people to use faith as the fuel to live the life God called them to live.” But, people can’t produce massive results without the necessary tools to help them succeed in their various faith walks. In 1995, Fernandez launched the University of Ft. Lauderdale, a non-denominational Christian institution, to help equip, educate and edify students. “All over scripture, God reveals these ‘God Moments.’ Even in the good times or bad times. Or, even the times where nothing is happening. We must remember that all things are working for our good. We become sensitive to what God is doing and what lessons God is trying to teach us,” he revealed. Fernandez has used his faith to grow The Faith Center into one of the fastest growing ministries in South Florida; Henry Fernandez Ministries, his personal ministry entity, and ZoeStream Productions, an emerging publishing and entertainment
company. He shares these four tips to help you put feet to your faith. Empower Yourself With Scripture: “It is important that you empower yourself with the fuel of the word of God. You can have a beautiful car. It is useless; however, if you don’t put fuel in it.” Make a Move: “When you know the word of God. Then that word becomes fuel to ignite your faith. Faith is something you can’t see. It’s something you do. Just do it and make a move.” Put Blinders On: “Imagine yourself as a racehorse. A racehorse is only looking at the finish line. You cannot look to the right or the left. You must stay focused on your God given assignment.” Expect and Overcome Distractions: “Distractions will come. You have to expect that the enemy of your soul will come against you. But, finish your race. The Apostle Paul said, ‘I have fought a good fight and I kept the faith.’ All of us were created to finish our race.” Fernandez attributes his success to a faithful God incredible family, exceptional staff, and compassionate community. For more information, log on to: www.HenryFernandez.org
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An Interview with Wayne Messam Candidate for Mayor of Miramar our minority and small businesses. I am running to be the New Mayor of Miramar because the future of our City faces many challenges that threaten our quality of life. Aging infrastructure, crime, pension obligations, changing demography are just a few of those challenges. That is why Miramar needs a New Mayor with energy, proven experience and cutting edge ideas and why Wayne Messam is running to be the New Mayor of Miramar. 5 REASONS COMMISSIONER MESSAM SHOULD BE MIRAMAR’S NEW MAYOR
I am Miramar Commissioner Wayne Messam and I am running to be the New Mayor of Miramar. I humbly ask for your vote Tuesday, March 10th. As your Commissioner, I have been hard at work fighting to keep our taxes low, our city safe, providing funding to build our new police headquarters, a new police substation in East Miramar and creating millions of dollars in contract opportunities for
Voter registration is handled through the Broward County Supervisor of Elections. Any inquires you may have, please visit their website @ browardsoe.org or call them at 954-357-7050.
1. Ethical & Proven Leader Commissioner Messam has honorably served Miramar and is one of the nation’s most respected elected officials. He owns a Miramar based business and is committed to lead Miramar into her next era. Wayne has the experience and is uniquely qualified to Unite our City’s diverse community. 2. Visionary Wayne led the effort to provide the funding to invest in critical projects that will sustain Miramar for generations to come. Projects include the new Police Headquarters & Historic East Miramar Police Substation, Park Renovations and key Infrastructure upgrades in our Historic (East) areas. These
projects are known as the “Your Bond Dollars At Work” program and was created by Commissioner Wayne Messam. 3. National Advisor Wayne serves as a Board of Director for many organizations including the National League of Cities National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials and the Broward League of Cities. Wayne also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Florida State University Foundation, his alma mater. 4. Business Owner Wayne has 16 years of business experience leading several Fortune 500 firms as a sales executive. As the owner of his own construction management firm, Wayne has created 100’s of jobs and contract opportunities for local, minority and small businesses throughout South Florida. 5. Family Man Wayne, a 14 year Miramar resident, has been happily married to his college sweetheart Angela for 17 years. Their kids Wayne II (son) and Kayla & Kyla (twin daughters) all attend Everglades High School. As we celebrate Black History Month, we must never forget that many Americans gave their lives so African Americans and all Americans could have an opportunity to
live life to the fullest. We must never forget that. If elected Mayor of our beloved City Miramar, I will continue to humbly serve all residents. I will continue to ensure all residents have a seat at the table and not just a privileged few. I will honor the legacy of Black History by uniting our city as we work to make Miramar the best city in America to Work, Live, Visit and Play.
“As we celebrate Black History Month, we must never forget that many Americans gave their lives so African Americans and all Americans could have an opportunity to live life to the fullest.“
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015 | AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUN SENTINEL
Legacy Magazine 2015 Black History Month Calendar
Thursday, February 5, 2015 Black Affairs Advisory Board Black History Month Kickoff (African American Exhibit by Kinad, Inc.) Time: 12:30 p.m. Stephen P. Clark Government Center (Lobby) 111 NW 1st Street Downtown Miami (305) 375-4606 www.miamidade.gov/ baab Thursday, February 5 – 8, 2015 2nd Annual Black History Festival Presented by ETA NU Chapter OMEGA PSI PHI Fraternity and the City of Pompano Beach This is a 3-day cultural event designed to celebrate African-American contributions to the American experience. Food – Music – Fun – Exhibits Free E. Pat Larkin Community Center 520 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Pompano Beach, Florida 33060 Various event date and times visit http://www.etanu.org/ for details Saturday, February 6, 2015 “Storming Papa Doc” a documentary on exiled former Haitian army officers Time: 7:00 p.m. General Admission: $11.00/ Seniors& Students $7.00 Little Haiti Cultural Center 212 NE 59th Terrace Miami, Florida 33137 Details: (305) 960-2969 Facebook: Ayitiimages Saturday, February 7, 2015 Black Heritage Festival Sponsored by Commissioner Barbara Jordan (District 1) & Miami Gardens Councilman Rodney Harris Time: 12 Noon to 3:00 p.m. –Free Admission Betty Ferguson Recreational Complex 3000 N. W. 199th Street Miami Gardens Details: (305) 375-5694 www.miamidade.gov Saturday, February 7, 2015 “The MasqueRed Soiree” Scholarship Masked Ball Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Dade County Alumnae Chapter/Delta Care, Inc. Time: 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Cost: $85.00 per person (Semi-Formal & masks suggested, not required)Briza on the Bay 1717 North Bayshore Drive Miami, Florida 33132 Contact: 305-3433332 www.dadecountyalumnaedst.com Saturday, February 7, 2015 “Know Your Rights” Police & Community Relations Post Ferguson & Where Do We Go From Here?” Time:5 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Urban League of Broward County 560 NW 27th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 www.ulbroward.org
Sunday, February 8, 2015 Fourth Annual “South Dade Gospel Fest” Sponsored by Commissioner Dennis C. Moss (District 9) Featuring Gospel Recording Artist Le’Andria Johnson (Season 3 winner of “Sunday Best”)Time: 5:00 p.m. Tickets: $15.00 adults/ children 1-17 --$3.00 South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center 10950 S.W. 211th Street Cutler Bay, Florida (305) 375-4606 www.sdcac. org Sunday, February 8-Sunday 15, 2015 Florida Memorial University Homecoming & Black History Month Celebrations South Florida’s only Historically Black University celebrates with lectures, films and concerts 15800 NW 42nd Avenue Miami Gardens, Florida (305) 626-3600 See website for details: www.fmuniv.edu Saturday, February 14, 2015 & Sunday, February 15, 2015 Trayvon Martin Foundation’s Remembrance Weekend “Walk and Peace Talk” Time: Registration 8:00 a.m. Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex 3000 NW 199th Street Miami Gardens, Florida 33056 Saturday, February 14, 2015 “Love Is” Valentine’s Day Dinner & Concert Featuring International Recording Artist Johnny Sanders Time: 7:00 p.m. Cost: $40.00 per person B.A.T. Banquet Complex 1855 NW 119th Street Miami, Florida Details: 305-454-6139 or 305688-1612 www.bethelatmiami.org
FEBRUARY 19–22 Au-Rene Theater
Glenn Allen Sims. Photo by Andrew Eccles
Saturday, January 31, 2015 Village Dialogue: An Invitation from the AfroCuban Community” An honest and open dialogue between Miami’s Afro-Cuban and African American communities. Time: 12:00-3:00 p.m. HistoryMiami 101 West Flagler Street Downtown Miami (305) 3754606 www.miamidade.gov/baab
Saturday, February 14, 2015 National Achievers Society County & Regional History & Culture Brain Bowl Competition February 14, 2015 10:00 a.m. Urban League of Broward County 560 NW 27th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 www.ulbroward.org Sunday, February 15, 2015 Trayvon Martin’s 20th Birthday Gala and Annual Remembrance Dinner Time: 5:00 p.m. Tickets: $75.00 per person ($150 preferred seating) Corporate sponsorship available Doubletree Hotel 711 N.W. 72nd Avenue Miami, Florida 33126. Details: (305) 305.744.5758 www.TrayvonMartinFoundation. org Sunday, February 15, 2015 Twenty-Second Annual Commemorative Service & Seventh Annual “Youth Talent on Parade” Sponsored by the African American Committee of Dade Heritage Trust Time: 3:00 p.m. The Historic City of Miami Cemetery 1800 N.E. 2nd Avenue Miami, Florida (305) 638-5800
For the Remainder of the Calendar, Please visit us at: facebook.com/thelegacy.grp
TICKETS at BrowardCenter.org • Ticketmaster | 954.462.0222 Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office • Group Sales | 954.660.6307 Generously supported by Funding Arts Broward, Inc. and by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture
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Celebrating Our Past, Forging Ahead Towards A Magnificent Future By Dr. Mia Y. Merritt
Petula Burks, Public Affairs Officer for the City of Fort Lauderdale was very proud to talk about the Black History events that the city puts on each year. The City of Fort Lauderdale has participated in the Historic Sistrunk Parade and Festival for over 15 years. For the last six to seven years, the Community Redevelopment Agency, along with Parks and Recreation have sponsored the “Kid’s Zone” of the festival portion of the event. In addition to participating in the Sistrunk parade and festival, the City has several events that are produced internally. Some of those events include Walk Through History, Kijiji Moja, Remembering Our Roots and Seasons of Change. The City of Fort Lauderdale, under the direction and leadership of former District III Commissioner Bobby DuBose (currently State Representative, District 94), sets out to meet the challenge of educating the masses about the rich history of the city’s African American community. Historically left out of history books and city, county, state and national stories, African Americans oftentimes are relegated to storytelling in order for their piece of history to be told and heard. In 2011, State Representative DuBose implemented a citywide program that occurs every February entitled “A Walk Through History”. Believing that to know and understand your history is essential to becoming an inclusive and more diverse city, State Representative DuBose framed the “Walk Through History” events in such a way as to honor trailblazing AfricanAmericans who came before us, shaping our neighborhoods, cities, counties, the state of Florida and in many instances the nation! These unsung heroes left behind a legacy for generations to learn from and endeavor to aspire for greatness. While celebrating the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Centennial, the inaugural Walk Through History event showcased the overall history of Northwest Fort Lauderdale, home to the city’s African American population. With oversized photos from the days of the Victory Theater and Provident Hospital, to the new Centennial sculptures created by artist George Gadson to artwork by Nzingah Oniwosan, an up and coming young artist - the first “walk” was filled with memories of times past and actual living history.
Photos From Fort Lauderdale’s Black History Events
The subsequent Walk Through events have included a look into medical, education and legal history. In 2014, Seasons of Change became the City’s newest black history event led by the City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department - District II Neighborhood Action Team (NAT Team) in order to honor the men and women who paved the path for minorities, specifically African Americans, in the police department. The NAT Team remembered the first two black officers - Kermit McCoy and Richard Stebbins who were first hired by the department in 1952. The event also highlighted the late Ozzie Davenport, Charmaine Gittens and McKinley Smith. Remembering Our Roots and Kijiji Moja are events produced by the Parks and Recreation Department. Both events promote unity within the community while teaching diversity, love of self, music, art and dance. This year’s theme for Walk Through History in conjunction with State Representative Bobby DuBose is “Celebrating Black Lives #BlackLivesMatter”. Walk Through History will be held on Tuesday, February 24th at 7:00 pm at the
Broward Performing Arts Center, Amaturo Theater. Our special guest will be Benjamin Crump. Special re-enactments will include a tribute to Selma and the voting rights act. There will be other special surprises for event-goers. Dates and times for the Black History Events are as follows: Remembering Our RootsSaturday February 7 | 3 p.m. | Riverland Park 950 S.W. 27th Ave. | 954-828-5320 Kijiji MojaSaturday February 21 | 1-4 p.m. | Carter Park 1450 W. Sunrise Blvd. | 954-828-5411 Walk Through History Tuesday, February 24, 2015 6:00 pm – Reception 7:00 pm – Event begins Broward Performing Arts Center - Amaturo Theater 201 Southwest 5th Avenue www.cftlwalkthroughhistory.org Seasons of Change Wednesday, February 25, 2015 6:00 pm Sistrunk Police Substation 1291 Sistrunk Blvd.
Sistrunk Parade & Festival Saturday, February 28 Parade: 9-11 am Sistrunk Blvd. from N.W. 9 to N.W. 22 Ave. Festival: Noon - 9 pm Mills Pond Park | 2201 N.W. 9 Ave. 954-687-3472 | www.sistrunkfestival.org For more information on Black History events held by the City of Ft. Lauderdale, call 954.828.4742 or visit: www.fortlauderdale.gov.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015 | AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUN SENTINEL
blaCk hisTory evenTs happening around The CiTy oF ForT lauderdale: state Representative bobby dubose in conjunction with the City of Fort lauderdale presents
2015 Walk Through hisTory
CelebraTing blaCk lives
RemembeRing OuR ROOts saturday, February 7 | 3 p.m. | Riverland Park 950 s.W. 27th Avenue | 954-828-5320
Kijiji mOjA saturday, February 21 | 1-4 p.m. | Carter Park 1450 W. sunrise boulevard | 954-828-5411
seAsOns OF ChAnge Wednesday, February 25, 2015 | 6:00 pm sistrunk Police substation 1291 sistrunk boulevard
sistRunK PARAde & FestivAl saturday, February 28
tuesdAy, FebRuARy 24, 2015 Reception 6:00 to 7:00 pm event begins at 7:00 pm broward Performing Arts Center 201 sW 5th Avenue Fort lauderdale, Fl 33312
sPeCiAl guest: benjamin Crump, esq Civil Rights Attorney For details, call 954.828.4742 or visit www.cftlwalkthroughhistory.org #blacklivesMatter
Parade: 9-11 am sistrunk boulevard from n.W. 9 to n.W. 22 Avenue Festival: noon - 9 pm mills Pond Park | 2201 n.W. 9 Avenue 954-687-3472 | www.sistrunkfestival.org For more information on black history events held by the City of Fort lauderdale, call 954.828.4742 or visit www.fortlauderdale.gov.
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AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUN SENTINEL | FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015
MONEY MANAGEMENT By Lindell G. Douglas, CFP®
There’s one thing you can count on as we kick off a new year – changes to the tax code. While there are few major new laws affecting taxpayers in 2015, it is important to understand how any adjustments to tax rules or your income might affect your tax liability. It is a critical aspect of your overall financial plan and can help you avoid any surprises when you file your 2015 tax return next year. Be aware that new laws can be implemented during the year. Congress has the ability to adjust tax laws and even do so retroactively. Here are some important tax considerations for the New Year:
Get health insurance or pay The individual mandate under the Affordable Care Act that took effect January 1, 2014
Managing Your Taxes in 2015 requires most individuals to obtain a qualifying level of health insurance or be subject to a fee. In 2015, the fee has increased to the higher of: • 2% of your yearly household income (capped at a certain level); or • $325 per person ($162.50 for a child under 18), with a family maximum of $975. If your employer provides health coverage, you do not have to purchase additional insurance on your own. Those who don’t have employer coverage can review options available from the health insurance exchanges. More information: www. healthcare.gov
Take advantage of tax savings by deferring income If you typically “max out” your workplace retirement plan contributions, you are able to adjust those deferral amounts to a higher level in 2015. The elective deferral limit for employees has risen to $18,000, $500 more than in 2014. Those 50 and older can make an additional $6,000 in contributions ($500 more than 2014) to their 401(k), 403(b) or federal government Thrift Savings Plan. Remember that for every dollar of income you defer into your retirement plan on a pre-tax basis, you reduce your current tax liability.
Pay attention to a new limit on IRA rollovers IRA contribution limits remain the same for 2015, but there is an important rule change for IRAs. Now, tax laws allow only one rollover from an IRA to a different IRA in a 12-month period. The “one rollover per year” limit applies in circumstances where you withdraw money from an IRA, but then roll it to another IRA within 60 days to avoid any current tax or penalty consequences. Direct transfers from an IRA with one trustee to an IRA with another can happen as often as you wish. Unless it is absolutely necessary, you want to avoid taking IRA distributions prior to age 59-1/2 to eliminate the risk of incurring a penalty. It’s best to talk with a tax professional before doing an indirect rollover to make sure you understand all the rules.
how all of these factors might affect your tax liability. On the other side of the coin, if you receive a salary increase and/or bonus in 2015, it could impact your tax bill. Work with your tax advisor to help determine if the amount of tax withheld from each paycheck is sufficient to avoid an under withholding penalty.
Account for inflation in tax rates and your income Tax brackets are adjusted yearly for inflation. In 2015, the income thresholds for each bracket were raised by about 1.5%. The standard deduction amount (used if you don’t itemize deductions) and the personal exemption amount are also adjusted for inflation. It is important to be aware of
Ameriprise Financial and its representatives do not provide tax or legal advice. Consult your tax advisor or attorney regarding specific tax issues. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2015 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. File #1083160
### Lindell G. Douglas, CFP®, is a Financial Advisor and Managing Director with Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Plantation, FL. He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 16 years. To contact him http://www.ameripriseadvisors.com/lindell.g.douglas or 776 N. Pine Island Rd, Suite 310 | Plantation, FL 33322. Office: 954.306.8668 Lindell.g.douglas@ ampf.com
BUSINESS REPORT
Black-owned Businesses that are Making History
Small businesses, particularly minority businesses, are fueling South Florida’s economy. As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s applaud the successes of the following black-owned businesses that are making history; let’s support them by doing business and partnering with them. RM Financial Group RM Financial Group (RMFG) is an insurance consulting firm founded by Charles D. Murphy, who has been in the insurance industry for more than 10 years. Located in Fort Lauderdale, RMFG is a leader in delivering risk and insurance services and solutions to clients. The firm provides professional insurance consulting services for businesses, government agencies, associations and not-for-profit organizations. Recently, the company was awarded its biggest contract to date with Macy’s to provide voluntary employee benefits for the retailer’s 200,000-plus employees. www. rm-financial.com World Wide Technology David L. Steward founded World Wide Technology, Inc. (WWT) in 1990. WWT is an award-winning systems integrator that provides innovative technology products, services and supply-chain solutions to customers and suppliers around the globe.
WWT brings an innovative and proven approach to how organizations evaluate, architect and implement technology. WWT has grown from a small product reseller into a global systems integrator with more than $6 billion in annual revenue and more than 2,700 employees throughout the world. WWT attributes its ongoing success to strict adherence to core values, a clear vision and mission, and a customer-focused team of professionals. www.wwt.com Standing Ovations Catering After owning and operating several restaurants in New York City for more than 20 years, including the Zagat-rated Mobay Uptown, Sheron Chin-Barnes and her partner Maria Kramer founded Standing Ovations Catering (SOC) in Fort Lauderdale. Sheron describes SOC’ cuisine as a fusion of Latin, Caribbean and Southern flavors that feeds the soul. The company’s clients have included Macy’s, Goldman Sachs, Essence magazine and Mourning Family Foundation, as well as many other institutions and private clients. Chin-Barnes’ cuisine reigned supreme on Food Network’s primetime series “Throwdown with Bobby Flay”. SOC will soon open a cantina in Fort Lauderdale that will serve Caribbean, Southern, Latin and healthy cuisines. www.standingovationscatering.com
H.I.M-istry Naturals Darnell Henderson is the Managing Partner and Founder of H.I.M-istry, a men’s skincare line developed to target the need for a Healthy Image Man (H.I.M.). After serving in the U.S. Navy, Henderson realized there was a gap in the men’s skincare market, offering men, especially men of color, products to protect their face from razor burn and skin discoloration. The brand received national exposure through Macy’s in 2007, followed by a launch in Target in 2012. Today, H.I.M-istry’s line of men’s shave care, skin care and hair care products can be found at Bed Bath and Beyond, The Shopping Channel, Army Air Force Exchange Services (AAFES) and Amazon. www.himistry.com Carvechi Established in 2007 by Donald Carson, Carvechi is a technology and manage Services Company that provides enterprise, web and application development and staffing services. The firm specializes in placements in areas such as accounting, engineering, finance and technology. The company’s clients include large cruises lines, financial services companies, healthcare, hospitality and government sectors. Carvechi offers a full range of workforce solutions and service delivery models
nationwide, including contract staffing, permanent placements, project-based services, payroll services, training and education. Carvechi will soon open an office in Costa Rica. www.carvechi.com To meet these business owners and many other minority entrepreneurs attend the Southern Florida Minority Supplier Development Council’s 30th Annual Business Expo on April 13-15, 2015 at the Broward County Convention Center. Vist www.sfmsdc.org or call (305) 762-6151 for more information.
Beatrice Louissaint
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015 | AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUN SENTINEL
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AskDearLove.com – A Movement to Bring Love and Romance Back to Dating A Destination for All Things About Love, Relationships and Married Life By Erica V. Knowles-Nelson “I want a man that is tall, dark and handsome” - this is statement that some women have proclaimed as an ideal mate across multiple generations. Take a moment to search “tall, dark and handsome” on Google and your results will be never-ending. If this is your ideal mate, Charles A. Johnson, Founder of AskDearLove.com will tell you that chances are you are dead wrong about the meaningful ideal attributes of your future partner. So what should singles search for when looking for someone and how should you go about doing that? AskDearLove is here to answer those questions. Why should you listen to Charles? Well, he’s helped 123 now married couples, worked with 623 couples in committed relationships and authored his relationship guide: How to Find the Right One and Make it Last. According to Charles we all need to be and find the perfect D.I.C.E. - the four things that men and women should
look for that are substantive and make a relationships last. Dependable “Is he dependable?” Have you discussed household duties, family planning and expectations about how much time you spend together? Inspiring “Does he inspire you to bring your ‘A’ game because of the way he treats you?” Complimentary “Does he compliment your life? Does he fit into your social circle? ... Do you also have emotional chemistry? You’re thinking babies and marriage and he’s thinking we’re just going to hang out. Do you have spiritual chemistry? Do you feel the same way about how you are going to view the world and put energy out there? ... And if you’ve got those three things, do you have good sexual chemistry? And we define sexual chemistry in a very simple definition - are both of you smiling at the end?” Enhancing “Does a person enhance your life beyond what you are able to do on your own?” Successful people can take themselves on a date; however,
Charles A. Johnson
“you’d rather go on a date with someone who’s fun, interesting and intriguing; who plans the day for you and surprises you.”
The Top 5 Things Men and Women Need to Know About Dating 1. Look for the right person- “the person that you want is not the person that you need.” 2. Build your relationship skills- Successful people spend their time on education and career advancement but not honing their relationship skills. 3. “Don’t wear your career on your sleeve” Tip: When asked ‘What do you do’ keep your response very general say for example “I’m in business. What do you like to do for fun? I hate to talk about my job”. 4. “Know what you want and know what you don’t want … You have to have a realistic list” 5. “What you want might not be what the other person wants” Men are pretty visual creatures and start to look for some substance when they’re in their late 30s - women want substance. And a final note for the ladies from Charles: “Men don’t chase, dogs chase. Men wait for a signal”. “Are you ready to meet the right one” go to www.askdearlove.com
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THE BAUGHTOM LINE By Germaine Smith-Baugh
Germaine Smith-Baugh President and CEO, Urban League of Broward County
It’s been said that history is our guide to the future. By understanding the social, political, and economic threads of the past, we have the ability to shape our actions in the present and dictate what happens in
Black Lives Matter the generations to come. And by celebrating our history, we can remind ourselves of how far we’ve come as a community and appreciate the blessings we enjoy today and tomorrow. Black History Month -- the annual celebration of achievements by black Americans and recognition of the central role of African Americans in U.S. history -- allows us to honor the sacrifice and suffering in battling racial inequality. Celebrating Black History Month also gives us opportunity to pause and remember the stories and events that have paved the way for the advancement of so many. For us at the Urban League of Broward County, many of the milestones honored during Black History Month have also been important moments in our local efforts to achieve social and economic equality. This year marks our 40th anniversary as a catalyst for change in the community we serve. Our “Breaking the Cycle” programs uplift more than 7,000 people every year by providing access to life-changing employment and education opportunities and quality housing and health care services. This didn’t happen overnight. Over the decades, we have had tremendous partners, supporters, and donors who have poured funds, time and other resources
into making our community healthier, more economically self-sufficient, and better educated. Our work is far from over. There’s been recent injustice in the deaths of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri and Eric Garner in New York City. Poverty is holding back countless families from prosperity. Obesity is ravaging our children and adults alike. That is why Black History Month continues to be important. It’s a time to educate, appreciate and dedicate, for building pride and dignity in black people. At the core, it’s a celebration of what blacks have accomplished in a relatively short period of time. Education is the key to strengthening our community. The real work in education comes in changing values, in speaking kindly to each other and treating each other with respect. Those lessons are learning in homes, churches, schools, and community organizations like Urban League of Broward County. Malcolm X had powerful words about education: “Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.” That brings us back to history. We need to hear, understand and preserve the stories, events and milestones of those before us. Their contributions create a sense of
identity for the rest of us, as well as nurture and educate the hearts and minds of future generations. Progress comes through hard work, sacrifice and dedication. The lessons of history tell us that. The Baughtom Line is this: Celebrate Black History Month in honor of the sacrifices that have achieved equal rights and tolerance in our society. There’s still much to do in creating opportunity for everyone, but we need to honor the historic milestones that have paved the way for countless African Americans. Germaine Smith-Baugh, Ed.D. is president and CEO of Urban League of Broward County
“Celebrating Black History Month also gives us opportunity to pause and remember the stories and events that have paved the way for the advancement of so many.”
ENTERPRISE
E-Discovery, A New Kind of Evidence in Litigation By Dr. Mia Y. Merritt When it comes to successful, intelligent, accomplished Black Women entrepreneurs in South Florida, Retevia Chisholm is the real thing! As President/CEO of ReChis Enterprise, Inc., Ms. Chisholm is one of very few African-American Litigation Support Specialists whose business focuses primarily on EDiscovery. ReChis Enterprise Inc., is a three-year-old thriving company that provides litigation support services to public and private organizations. The company has three components/subsidiaries: ReChis Management (provides administrative management services to corporations), ReChis Business (Business services), and ReChis EDiscovery (provides litigation support to entities that focus on electronic evidence with issues pertaining to managing electronic documents and digital devices, such as computers, cell phones, databases and servers). Ms. Chisholm made a point of stating that since we are in a digital age, electronic discovery (e-discovery) is a new method of processing digital evidence in litigation. She quotes, “We are in a time where we have moved from paper evidence to digital evidence, because files are stored in a digital
Retevia Chisholm, President & CEO of ReChis Enterprise, Inc.
format inside computers and databases. Therefore, there are not many file cabinets around anymore. In fact, some offices have a paperless environment. People are carrying thumb drives and CDs that contains pertinent information
about their business or images from special events, so digital files are a new type of evidence. Additionally, since we are living in a technologically advanced, fast moving society, it would be wise for everyone to keep up with the changes in technology or get left behind.” Ms. Chisholm loves what she does and stays on top of the latest trends and softwares in this innovative industry. She enjoys working behind the scenes and managing digital evidence for legal professionals. Ms. Chisholm is a legal professional with a law background and because of the legal aspects of her business, she must be in compliance with the Florida Bar Association and adhere to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedures. She states that law school is not enough for this business, but one must be intricately knowledgeable of the ediscovery profession and industry. Prior to opening her business, Ms. Chisholm was a paralegal for 15 years, a Paralegal Specialist for the State Attorney’s Office in Miami-Dade County, an Office Manager/Paralegal for Attorney Larry R. Handfield and she also worked for MiamiDade County Public Schools as a District Administrator. She has a BS Degree in Legal Studies from Barry University, a BS
Degree in Professional Administration, a MS Degree in Management with a specialization in Sports Administration from St. Thomas University, and a MS Degree in EDiscovery from Bryan University. She also attended Kaplan University, Concord School of Law right before opening ReChis Enterprise Inc. When I asked her what was next for ReChis Enterprise, she said that a 4th subsidiary will be starting the end of January 2015 and will be called Vaulted E.S.I. (electronic storage information) Storage for legal professionals only. Her vision is for Rechis Enterprise to expand to other states, and her mission is to increase the volume and interaction between law and technology digitally in litigation. ReChis Enterprise is getting bigger and better and I have no doubt that Ms. Chisholm will accomplish all of the goals that she has set for her company. ReChis Enterprise Inc is located in Hollywood, FL. The phone number is 954-5860679 or you may visit the website at www. rechisenterprise.com.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015 | AN INDEPENDENT SUPPLEMENT BY MIA MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS GROUP TO THE SUN SENTINEL
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HITSVILLE, USA On January 12, 1959, Berry Gordy Jr. obtained a loan of $800 from his family and founded an enterprise he called Motown. He set up his Detroit headquarters in a modest house emblazoned with an immodest sign, “Hitsville U.S.A.” The company had its first hit record in 1960, and between 1961 and 1971 landed 163 singles in Billboard magazine’s top 20, including 28 songs that reached No. 1. Gordy discovered, developed, and launched the careers of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, Diana Ross and The Supremes, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Mary Wells, The Jackson 5, Michael Jackson, and Marvin Gaye to name just a few – and Motown became the most successful business owned and operated by an African American in the United States. What Gordy accomplished had ramifications far beyond the world of music. Now his legacy is celebrated in Motown the Musical. “Berry Gordy is the Steve Jobs of the music field,” says Doug Morris, CEO of Sony Music Entertainment and co-producer of the show. Gordy started Motown just before the civil rights movement was in full flower, when neighborhoods throughout the country remained segregated and music by black artists was mostly relegated to black radio stations. The instrumentation was unique, “Long
before there were electronic synthesizers, I was looking for new ways to create different sound effects. We would try anything to get a unique percussion sound: two blocks of wood slapped together, striking little mallets on glass ashtrays, shaking jars of dried peas – anything.” Gordy recognized that he needed an experienced, respected, well-connected point man who could shatter the color line of the airwaves, and in 1960 he brought on Barney Ales as vice president of distribution and sales. Ales had been a branch manager at Capitol records in Detroit, then had his own record distributorship, and had relationships with disc jockeys and stations, black and white, all around the metropolitan area. “My feeling, long before I went to Motown, was that music was music,” says Ales. “I never considered Motown a black company. It was owned by a black guy and had black artists, but it wasn’t a black company. It was a record company. And it was easy to sell the sound because people liked the sound.” Robin Seymour, Detroit’s most popular radio personality of that era, was perhaps the only white disc jockey in the city to feature black music on his shows in the ’50s, prior to the founding of Motown. “When Berry Gordy came along, I started playing his records,” says Seymour.
“Some of the sponsors hated the music, but they had kids and their kids thought it was the greatest music ever. The sponsors were getting results, so they were happy. ” “What happened with Motown wasn’t natural,” says Ales. “People think Motown was lucky, but that wasn’t true. We worked at it. For instance, I signed a deal with Columbia Record Club, a mail order club that had a lot of prestige. No other black
company ever had a deal with them for an entire label. So we were seen as a major record company as opposed to a company that just had hit records.” Motown gradually became part of the fabric of America. “Music really makes the world vibrate,” says Morris. “And when multi-cultures vibrate together, it’s a great thing. That’s what Berry Gordy made happen. His music changed the world.”
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CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH
CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH “THE MUSIC THAT TRANSFORMED AMERICA!”
“THE MUSIC THAT TRANSFORMED AMERICA!” -CBS SUNDAY MORNING
RAYMOND LUKE JR. PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS. ALL OTHER PHOTOS BY ANDREW ECCLES.
RAYMONDLUKE LUKEJR.JR.PHOTO PHOTOBYBYJOAN JOANMARCUS. MARCUS. RAYMOND ALLOTHER OTHERPHOTOS PHOTOSBYBYANDREW ANDREWECCLES. ECCLES. ALL
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ART & CULTURE
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Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Continues To Inspire
Legacy Exclusive When awarding a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom to choreographer Alvin Ailey, President Barack Obama said, “Through him, African American history was told in a way that it had never been before – with passionate, virtuoso dance performances that transfixed audiences worldwide.” Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater continues to inspire audiences presenting classic pieces of their repertoire alongside works by today’s most exciting choreographers. The company is returning to South Florida for an artistic residency at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts generously supported by Funding Arts Broward, Inc. and by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. Company member Jamar Roberts began dancing at the age of six in Miami and trained at Dance Empire of Miami before joining Alvin Ailey in 2002. While he was a student at New World School of the Arts, a dance teacher took him to see the company for the first time. “It was amazing,” Roberts recalls. “I saw Revelations and I thought it was absolutely beautiful. I remember ‘Sinner Man’ [a section of the larger ballet] was really powerful and different with these three guys emanat-
ing so much heart.” Alvin Ailey’s signature work Revelations celebrates African-American culture using gospel and blues and will be one of the works performed for students at the Broward Center. “Kids are so responsive to dance,” marvels Roberts. “From the stage, the lights are up a little bit and you can see their faces. You have to wake up a little bit earlier to perform for students, but when you get a really cool crowd of kids and feel their eagerness and excitement, it’s like morning coffee.” One of the dancers who made an impression on Roberts when he was a student seeing Revelations for the first time was Matthew Rushing, who serves as the company’s rehearsal director and guest artist. Rushing choreographed this season’s world premiere ODETTA, based on the music of African American folk singer Odetta Holmes. The acclaimed new work, which will be performed at the Broward Center, brings her music that has been called “the soundtrack of the Civil Rights movement” to a new generation. “This piece has so much heart,” says Roberts who does not dance in the piece. “Heart is also the number one word I would use to describe her music. The piece is really, really uplifting and relevant.” In addition to the student performances and a public master class, the company will
perform three programs of works featuring Revelations, ODETTA, After the Rain (pas de deux), Awassa Astrige/Ostrich, Bad Blood, D-Man in the Waters (Part 1), LIFT, Polish Pieces and Suspended Women. When asked how he would describe the company, Roberts says, “Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is monumental. It’s like when you go to New York, you have to see the Statue of Liberty. It is one of those things you
have to see. It has its own place in African American and American culture.” Alvin Ailey performs February 19 – 22 with a master class presented on February 21 at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts at 201 SW Fifth Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. Buy tickets online at BrowardCenter.org or Ticketmaster.com or by phone at (954) 462-0222.releases.
LEGACY BRIEFS University of Florida Association of Black Alumni - South Florida Chapter to Honor Community Leaders at “Gator Greats” Reception on Feb. 19, 2015 To read additional articles, see our complete listing of Black History Month events in South Florida and for a chance to win Jazz in the Gardens tickets visit our facebook page.
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The University of Florida Association of Black Alumni – South Florida Chapter will celebrate Black History Month with its “Gator Greats” recognition and networking reception on Thurs., Feb. 19 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Tokyo Blue, located at The Ocean Manor (4040 Galt Ocean Drive, Fort Lauderdale). The inaugural event will highlight the accomplishments of black alumni, including the first black student to graduate from the university, as well as provide a platform for networking and raise funds for local students planning to attend the institution. “ The UF Association of Black Alumni’s mission is to build support, develop programming and create initiatives that help in the personal and professional development of UF alumni, students, faculty and staff,” said Robyn Hankerson, President of the UF Association of Black Alumni – South Florida Chapter. “Gator Greats is a great opportunity to fulfill this mission, while highlighting alumni and showcasing the impact that we are making in building a better South Florida.”
The event will celebrate the accolades of leaders in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties who have excelled in the areas of education, law, nonprofit and community building. Honorees include W. George Allen, Esq., Reginald J. Fox, Rev. Henry Green III, Juliet Murphy Roulhac and Katrina Louis. The “Gator Greats” recognition and networking reception is free and open to the public. Space is limited. To RSVP or for more information, email abadirector.sofla@gmail.com or visit www.ufabasofla.wordpress.com.
South Florida Chapter
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