C E L E B R AT I N G B L AC K AC H I E V E M E N T T H RO U G H O U T F L O R I DA
VOLUME 25 ISSUE 2 MARCH/APRIL 2022
WOMEN ON THE MOVE BREAKING BARRIERS AND CROSSING BORDERS
UDELL T. BLACK
THE MATRIARCH OF WOTM
SANFORD REBIRTH:
DR. JOHNNETTA BETSCH COLE
TRAYVON’S TRAGEDY SPARKED A MOVEMENT
WOMAN OF THE YEAR SHARES THE PRIVILEGE OF STRUGGLE
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CONTENTS
12 COVER STORY
JOHNNETTA BETSCH COLE, PH.D., IS ONYX MAGAZINE’S 2022 WOMAN OF THE YEAR Cover photo of Dr. Cole in an Adinkra top by Kellie Boston of Boston Photography, St. Augustine
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7 8 10 12 15 16 18 20 22 24 25 26 27 28 30 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 41 42 43 44 45 47 48 49 50 51 52 54 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 64 66
Black History ONYX Salutes Mrs. Udell Theodora Black SAGE: Ageless women, self-care Woman of the Year: Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole International Woman on the Move: Bertha Cooper-Rousseau Travel – Eco-friendly travel Workplace Scholarship – ONYX Foundation launches new scholarships Business – Help small businesses thrive WOTM – Kamia Brown WOTM – Tina Commodore WOTM – Joyce Cotton WOTM – Marilyn Drayton Health & Wellness Social Justice – Critical Race Theory Smart Tips – Know about car care WOTM – Vicki-Elaine Felder WOTM – Angela Fields, M.D. WOTM – Donna Gilmer WOTM – Joycelyn Henson, Ed.D. Florida Scope The Quad Environment – Doing my part WOTM - Malou Harrison, Ph.D. WOTM – Danielle A. Henry, M.D. WOTM – Cynthia Johnson, Ed.D. WOTM – Kimra Major-Morris, Esq. ONYX Reads – Truth to power WOTM – Jo Newell WOTM – Maribel Nicholson-Choice, Esq. WOTM – Desiree Noisette, Esq. WOTM – Tekoa Pouerie BIPOC communities need BIPOC leadership Money Matters – Money mistakes you don’t have to repeat WOTM – Laine Powell, Ed.D. WOTM – Kimber Saint-Preux WOTM – Chief Barbara Tripp WOTM – Veronica Valdez, Esq. WOTM – Annetta Wilson ONYX on the Move The Magnificent Seven Family – Learn how to make books essential in neighborhoods Arts & Culture – Sanford Rebirth: Trayvon Martin’s tragedy sparks a cultural movement 69 Community Impact Award – Orlando Health 70 Wine & Food
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Rich Black VICE PRESIDENT Marianne Eggleston, M.B.A. MANAGING EDITOR D. Shenell Reed, M.B.A. EXECUTIVE STRATEGIST Lena Graham-Morris
RICH BLACK
MARCH/APRIL 2022
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Maria Barnes
Dear Family,
ASSOCIATE EDITORS Gayle Andrews Laura Dorsey Sharon Fletcher Jones Trina Ryan Nancy Port Schwalb
Welcome to the women’s empowerment issue of ONYX Magazine. March is Women’s History Month—an opportunity for us to recognize the significant impact women have on societies all over the world. From the board room to the living room, women continue to play important roles that bring strategic growth across the globe. This month, ONYX Magazine celebrates 23 of these women during ONYX Magazine’s Women on the Move. Returning live in our seventh year—after virtual recognition in 2021 due to COVID-19—2022 will be memorable for several reasons. First: It comes on the heels of my mother’s transition from this life. Udell Theodora Black was the backbone of our family and the inspiration behind Women on the Move. Her strength and tenacity kept our family close, often in difficult times. In the 1960s, she and my father, Reginald Black, Sr., rose to the challenge of establishing the first Black-owned restaurant in downtown Orlando. Facing racism and discrimination, she modeled incredible faith that led to the success of their business. Mom had incomparable compassion for others, offering quiet encouragement to those who struggled with addiction and lifting the spirits of rehabilitation patients. Through it all, she taught me and my seven siblings about courage and to always reach for the best. Our successes are her testimony. In this issue, we celebrate her life. Thank you for your invaluable show of support to me and my family. Second: We honor Johnnetta Betsch Cole, Ph.D., the only person to serve as president of both U.S. colleges for Black women: Spelman College and Bennett College. Cole is a powerhouse in academia, a voice in social justice and a leader of women’s empowerment. She was the first woman board member at CocaCola Enterprises, the first African American on the board of United Way, and she served on boards of some of the nation’s most powerful corporations. As the seventh national chair of the National Council for Negro Women, an organization founded by Mary McLeod-Bethune, Cole ushered in a new era of social activism and continued progress and growth for the organization. In our cover story, we explore Cole’s early life and tap into her inspirations. Finally: Among this impressive cadre of women is the International Woman on the Move Bertha Cooper-Rousseau. With extensive experience in the field of diplomacy and international relations, including in the United Nations and its agencies, she serves the government of the Republic of Botswana as its honorary counsel to The Bahamas. Also among our honorees is Barbara Tripp, Florida’s first Black woman fire chief, the first female chief in Tampa’s 126-year history and the 13th Black woman fire chief in the nation. They are among a slate of women who are firsts in their fields. Their stories and a look at how Trayvon Martin’s death inspired a movement in Sanford, Fla., make up this critical issue of ONYX Magazine.
DESIGN DIRECTOR Jason Jones GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jon Burton BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Matt deJager
Dr. Eva Beaulieu Danielle Dorsey Laura Dorsey
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sharon Fletcher Jones Stephen King Valada Flewellyn Sonali Kolhaktar Viniece Jennings Trina Ryan
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Kellie Boston Brion Price ONYX ADVISORY COMMITTEE Nancy Port Schwalb, Chair Deidre Parker, Immediate Past Chair Dick Batchelor Bob Berryhill Dr. Lavon Bracy Bryon Brooks Marva Brown Johnson Hon. Mable Butler Yolanda Cash Jackson Dr. Cynthia Chestnut James Clark
John Crossman Gary Hartfield Barbara Hartley Tony Hill Alma Horne Rodney Hurst Ann Jenkins Connie Kinnard Larry Lee, Jr.
Brenda March Marisol Romany Margaret J. Thompson Gail Thomas-DeWitt Hon. Alan Williams Carla Williams Dr. Samuel Wright Lady Dhyana Ziegler
FOUNDERS
As you pore over these pages, we hope you glean inspiration from their words. As always, we are happy to bring you stories that entertain, inspire and inform. Thank you for following us. Lester and Lillian Seays
Sincerely,
Rich Black
DEE PARKER
2022 WOTM CHAIR
6 ONYX MAGAZINE
NANCY PORT SCHWALB 2022 WOTM C0-CHAIR
ONYX Magazine is published by ONYX Communications and Media Group, Inc., Address: P.O. Box 555672, Orlando, Florida 32855-5872. Phone 321-418-7216. Subscription rate is $19.95 for six issues. For subscriptions and notification of address change, contact ONYX Magazine at the above address or e-mail us at info@onyxmagazine.com. Letters to the editor are encouraged. Copyright 2021 by ONYX Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the writer or interviewee and not necessarily those of the publisher. Manuscripts, photos and art should be submitted with a self-addressed stamped envelope. The publisher does not assume responsibility for any materials not submitted in manner advised. Unsolicited materials are not subject to payment from ONYX Magazine.
BLACK HISTORY
THE FIRST
REBECCA LEE DAVIS CRUMPLER IS THE FIRST BLACK WOMAN IN AMERICA TO EARN A MEDICAL DEGREE.
THIS IMAGE AND BIOGRAPHY ARE WORKS OF THE NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH. AS A WORK OF THE U.S. FEDERAL GOVERNMENT, THE IMAGE IS IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN.
R
ebecca Lee Crumpler challenged the prejudice that prevented African Americans from pursuing careers in medicine to become the first African American woman in the United States to earn an M.D. degree, a distinction formerly credited to Rebecca Cole. Although little has survived to tell the story of Crumpler's life, she has secured her place in the historical record with her book of medical advice for women and children, published in 1883. Crumpler was born in 1831 in Delaware, to Absolum Davis and Matilda Webber. An aunt in Pennsylvania, who spent much of her time caring for sick neighbors and may have influenced her career choice, raised her. By 1852 she had moved to Charlestown, Mass., where she worked as a nurse for the next eight years (because the first formal school for nursing only opened in 1873, she was able to perform such work without any formal training). In 1860, she was admitted to the New England Female Medical College. When she graduated in 1864, Dr. Crumpler was the first African American woman in the United States to earn an medical degree, and the only African American woman to graduate from the New England Female Medical College, which closed in 1873. In her “Book of Medical Discourses,” published in 1883, she gives a brief summary of her career path: "It may be well to state here that, having been reared by a kind aunt in Pennsylvania, whose usefulness with the sick was continually sought, I early conceived a liking for, and sought every opportunity to relieve the sufferings of others. Later in life I devoted my time, when best I could, to nursing as a business, serving under different doctors for a period of eight years (from 1852 to 1860); most of the time at my adopted home in Charlestown, Middlesex County, Mass. From these doctors I received letters commending me to the faculty of the New England Female
Medical College, whence, four years afterward, I received the degree of doctress of medicine." Dr. Crumpler practiced in Boston for a short while before moving to Richmond, Va., after the Civil War ended in 1865. Richmond, she felt, would be "a proper field for real missionary work, and one that would present ample opportunities to become acquainted with the diseases of women and children. During my stay there, nearly every hour was improved in that sphere of labor. The last quarter of the year 1866, I was enabled . . . to have access each day to a very large number of the indigent, and others of different classes, in a population of over 30,000 colored." She joined other Black physicians caring for freed slaves who would otherwise have had no access to medical care, working with the Freedmen's Bureau, and missionary and community groups, even though black physicians experienced intense racism working in the postwar South. "At the close of my services in that city," she explained, "I returned to my former home, Boston, where I entered into the work with renewed vigor, practicing outside, and receiving children in the house for treatment; regardless, in a measure, of remuneration." She lived on Joy Street on Beacon Hill, then a mostly Black neighborhood. By 1880 she had moved to Hyde Park, Mass., and was no longer in active practice. Her 1883 book is based on journal notes she kept during her years of medical practice. The little we know about her comes from the introduction to her book, a remarkable mark of her achievements as a physician and medical writer in a time when very few African Americans were able to gain admittance to medical college, let alone publish. Her book is one of the very first medical publications by an African American. ONYX MAGAZINE 7
ONYX MAGAZINE SALUTES
MRS. UDELL THEODORA BLACK THE MATRIARCH AND INSPIRATION BEHIND WOMEN ON THE MOVE
M
rs. Udell Theodora Black transitioned from this life on February 8, 2022, in her home in Orlando, Fla. Udell T. Bradford was born on May 26, 1931, to the late Thomas Bradford and Alma Rosa Strachan. A native of New Providence, Bahamas, she and her family are descendants of Col. Andrew Deveaux, an American Loyalist from South Carolina. He is most famous for his recapture of the Bahamas from Spain in 1783. Udell relocated to Rum Cay to live with her grandparents, Nehemiah Onisemus and Ellen Strachan as a child. While there, she attended Rum Cay All Ages School. Udell returned to the island of New Providence to live with her father and attend vocational classes as an adult. In 1954, she married an enterprising young man, Reginald Alexander Maycock Black, from Rum Cay, Bahamas. The two left the Bahamas to pursue a life in the United States. After living in New York for a while, the beautiful Caribbean woman decided the warmth of the South was more her style, and the couple settled in Orlando. To their union, eight children were born. Udell encouraged her children and always pushed them to be the best they could become. A woman of immeasurable faith, she raised her family in the church and instilled Christian beliefs and humanity in them. As her husband traveled for work, often for six months at a time, Udell carried out the day-to-day responsibilities of caring for her family. As a result of unwavering parental guidance, each of her children became successful and productive members in their communities. In 1968, Reginald and Udell Black went into business together. Reginald frequented a restaurant in downtown Orlando where he and the manager often talked about the food industry. Impressed by Reginald, the owner asked him to manage the restaurant, and he declined. However, upon a later request to purchase The Fountain, Reginald spoke with Udell, and the two became trailblazers as the proprietors of the first Black-owned restaurant in downtown Orlando into the 1970s. Udell retired from Guardian Care Nursing & Rehabilitation Center as the Assistant Activities Director. In her spare time, she enjoyed making her signature pound cake, fresh-baked yeast bread, Caribbean macaroni and cheese, and her signature pigeon peas and rice. Udell was a longtime member of Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church and the last original member of the Mother’s Ministry, which was created under the leader-
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ship of Pastor Dr. Larry G. Mills. She loved her church, and she also served as a member of the Nurse’s Guild. She was brilliant and a quiet warrior. During a holiday dinner as her children gave accolades to their father, Udell sat quietly, then uttered, “Your father was a King because I was a Queen and a King Maker.” She went on to speak about the many sacrifices she made, which led to the union’s success. These words resonated with her son, Rich, the president and CEO of ONYX Magazine, as he thought about women who are not credited for their heavy lifting. Udell became the matriarch and inspiration behind ONYX Magazine’s Women on the Move, which has recognized 167 Black women throughout Florida for their accomplishments and contributions since 2016. Further, Udell’s commitment to education encouraged and provided funding opportunities to assist students in their pursuit of degrees at institutions of higher learning. In this vein, the Udell T. Black & Linda Y. Braynen Legacy Scholarship was created and will be presented in March 2022 at the seventh annual Women on the Move awards. She was preceded in death by her husband, Reginald Alexander Maycock Black, Sr.; her daughters, Patricia L. Black and Pamela Marie Black; and two sisters, Sylvia Roberts and Shirley Johnson. She is survived by her children Reginald Black, Jr., Anthony Black, Thomas Black, Rich Black, Sharon (Horace) Black-Williams, and Wendell (Cassandra) Black; sister-in-law Linda Braynen; cousin U.S. Representative Frederica Wilson; godsons James Randall, Anthony Tribue, and Dr. Lantz Mills; and goddaughters Karen “Kay” Knox, Melissa Peoples, Theresa Maria Barnes, Virginia Hayes, and Judy Whitley. She is the grandmother of granddaughters Sheri Jones, Shuntia Black, Niya Black, Antoinette Black, Oktavia Black, and Tasha Black; and grandsons Samuel Black, Masiyah Jones, Kensington Black, Christian Black, Devon Black, Trayvon Fair, Jordan Justice, Thomas Black, Jr., Damien Black, Brandon Black, Jamal Black, Sergio Bouie, and Dominic Black. She is the great-grandmother of Tamya Jones, Antonia Yarborough, Makayla McDugal, Michael McDugal, Stephen Black, Genesis Black, Levi Black, Wisdom Black, Judith Black, Michael Black, Daniel Black, David Black, Shazanah Black, Sarah Black, Samuel Black, Dyvine Johnson, and Dayvia Robinson; the families of the late Anzlo Strachan, Lease Strachan, Sylvia Roberts, Shirley Johnson; and numerous relatives and friends.
ONYX MAGAZINE 9
SAGE
AGELESS
CERTAIN AGE WOMEN SPEND A DAY OF SELF-CARE. BY SHARON FLETCHER JONES
DJ Niecy D of Star 94.5 led the dance party as the guests celebrated themselves and each other. The Orlando-based entrepreneur’s businesses include ATM sales and service. Karen Jennings of One Hope Wine provided tastings and helped close the event out with a special toast. “The Day One Party is a chance to bring together a diverse group of women, share helpful insights, and lift each other up as we get into the New Year,” said Fletcher Jones. “It’s definitely something we’ll do annually.” Visit https://certainagewomen.com, follow on Facebook at @certainagewomen2020
Keep Your Mind Sharp As you get older, so does your mind. Cognitive decline, also called cognitive impairment, reduces the brain’s ability to learn, retain information, remember and make judgments. Mild cognitive decline occurs with regular aging, but it can also indicate more severe conditions, such as dementia. The effects of cognitive decline can be frustrating and significantly decrease the quality of life for older adults and their families. According to the CDC, it can also invoke feelings of distress, and in some cases, depression. Growing research indicates that there are easy-to-adopt ways to counteract the cognitive effects of an aging mind.
START JOURNALING Get a notebook and start writing down your thoughts. Writing is a mentally stimulating and complex cognitive activity.
BE SOCIAL Regular social interactions and connections protect memory and cognitive function in older adults.
GET 7-9 HOURS OF SLEEP Poor sleep quality can reduce your reaction time and slow down cognitive 10 ONYX MAGAZINE
thinking. It can also weaken working memory, making it difficult to remember short- and long-term information.
START GARDENING Multiple studies have linked gardening to maintaining healthy cognition in older adults. Twenty minutes of gardening was associated with increased memory and cognitive function in older adults, based on a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
READ THE STORY ON KEEPING YOUR MIND SHARP IN ITS ENTIRETY AT BLACKDOCTOR.ORG; AGELESS PHOTO BY KENYA WOODARD.
W
omen of a Certain Age, LLC, continues its mission to help women rise, rock, and rule with the recent launch of its first in-person event of the new year; the 2022 Day One Party: Relax, Release, Reset! In spite of unseasonably rainy Central Florida weather, dozens of women filled Orlando’s D’Space Event Venue to hear from a host of speakers on topics like money management, legacy building, personal safety, and mental well-being. Many were excited about the in-person, socially distanced affair after 2021’s virtual event. “It’s grey and rainy outside but there’s sunshine in this room!” said Sharon Fletcher Jones, WOACA founder and CEO. The 2022 event opened with a rousing welcome by emcee Tammie Fields of Spectrum News 13. To kick off the day’s agenda, guests participated in a relaxing meditation led by Rosanna Feliz, who holds a degree in computer science, studies cosmetology and is an Ifa practitioner. Sonja White, former Orlando Police Deputy Chief and now Central Florida district director for Congresswoman Val Demings, offered tips on personal safety and security. White provided attendees with mini flashlights and identity theft protective cases. Masseuse Linda Jones of LJBodyworks discussed the benefits of massage therapy and gave soothing 5-minute massages. Guided by You founder Denise Smalls gave out pointers for financial fitness and literature while Hope Elliott of Hope Granted, LLC, followed up with legacy building. Orange County Vice-Mayor Mayra Uribe stopped by to share her insights on the importance of physical fitness. Fletcher Jones presented on forgiveness as a means of moving forward. Personal stylist Carla Nelson of A Creative Cliché wowed the audience with her presentation about finding fashion for your body type and Lisseth Russa talked mental health matters.
E YEAR WOMAN OF TH
THE PRIVILEGE OF STRUGGLE
DR. JOHNNETTA BETSCH COLE IS A MENTOR TO MANY, A SISTER TO OTHERS, AND AN INSPIRATION TO ALL. IN AN ONYX MAGAZINE EXCLUSIVE, THE WOMAN OF THE YEAR SHARED WHAT SHAPES HER TESTIMONY. BY VALADA FLEWELLYN
Live your life in such a way that others will want to tell your story. Her ancestors arms Reached out from Senegal Sculpting the tale She would regale Excerpt from ‘Adaoha,’ by Valada Flewellyn
J
ohnnetta Betsch Cole has been in the public eye since birth by virtue of the family she was born into and the strength of her own varied and vast accomplishments. Her story reads like a fairytale: great granddaughter of Abraham Lincoln Lewis, Florida’s first African American millionaire and Mary Kingsley Sammis; the great-granddaughter of Zephaniah Kingsley—a slaveowner and trader—and his wife and former slave whose home on Fort George Island is preserved as Kingsley Plantation. But her upbringing was not without strife. “If there is something called struggle, I know it, because I grew up with marches and burnings by the Klu Klux Klan. I grew up during those horrific days of racial segregation,” says Cole. “But at the same time, I did not grow up poor. And so here I am the great granddaughter of A.L. Lewis. He grew up in the humblest of circumstances but was touched by God and given an unusual amount of fortitude and faith.” The Betsch family lived in a section of Jacksonville, Fla., known as Sugar Hill. The street was lined with the mansions of wealthy Black people. It was not unusual to hear a parent respond to their child’s request for something they could not afford by saying, “You must think you live on Sugar Hill!” “The Betsch family was one you lived vicariously through,” said Martha Phelts, a lifelong resident of Jacksonville and also the author of “American Beach: A Beach for African Americans.” “The most memorable cotillion ever had to be when Johnnetta and (her sister), MaVynee, were introduced to society,” said Phelts, who also is writing a book on Sugar Hill.
Mosaic Mural in Jacksonville Florida.
INSPIRATION Cole’s great grandfather’s friends and contemporaries were not simply people she heard or read about; they were people she sat next to at dinner. One such influencer and shero was 12 ONYX MAGAZINE
Johnnetta Betsch, third from left, and her sister, MarVyene, along with fellow debutantes in 1953. Photo from the collection of Marsha Dean Phelts.
would be with her dearest friends, one on the faculty, the other a librarian at Bethune Cookman, all three Deltas (of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.). Dr. Bethune was in her office. We would actually, my sister and I, have the almost unimaginable privilege of going into that office where that great woman was.”
LEGACY
US Embassy in Monrovia, Liberia (l-r) Carol J. Alexander, Ambassador Christine Elder, Johnnetta B. Cole, (husband) James Staton (brother) John Betsch, (son) David Cole
Inauguration at Bennett College for Women.
Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, the founder of Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Fla. Cole remembers that her grandfather and Dr. Bethune would sit at the dining table on Sundays, as the young Betsch children looked on and listened, and discuss what they referred to as ‘race business’”. “There I was, born in circumstances that are an afront to decency and justice and yet, I was also born into an unusual family. I knew A.L. Lewis, I called him Fafa. My sister and I went to his house every Sunday where his second wife, Elzona Lewis, prepared dinner for us,” Cole recalls. Perhaps one of her greatest memories of that time was when she developed deep admiration for one of her great grandfather’s dearest confidants—a woman who would become one of America’s greatest leaders. “Among his closest friends was the legendary Dr. Mary Mcleod Bethune. So close were they, I can perhaps capture it when I say that she did the eulogy at his funeral in 1947. She sat on the board of the Afro-American Life Insurance Company (America’s first Black-owned insurance company which Lewis founded) and he sat on the board at Bethune-Cookman (the college Bethune founded),” said Cole. “Because of their relationship, my sister and I would be seated on the back seat of my mother’s car and driven to Bethune-Cookman where she
Carol J. Alexander, former director of the Ritz Theatre Museum in Jacksonville, is Cole’s goddaughter. Alexander created a museum on American Beach that tells the story of Cole’s grandfather, A.L. Lewis, the founder of American Beach. Creating the museum had been a lifelong dream of Cole’s sister, MaVynee Betsch. “I call her Boujee and she calls me Bootsey,” Alexander said with a hearty laugh. “Johnnetta is family, our families spend holidays around a table full of laughter and many stories.” Phelts also remembers how the Betsch children served as an inspiration to other African Americans. "Johnnetta played tennis in Nassau, Bahamas, went to college in Tennessee, became an anthropologist and went to Africa. We would read about them in newspapers and magazines. When they played tennis in Cuba we were introduced to Cuba, and when Johnnetta went away to Fisk (University) we learned of Tennessee. They were and are celebrities. Their contemporaries lived vicariously through them,” Phelts said. Cole’s time at Fisk was short-lived, however, as the death of her beloved mother threw her into the depths of grief. Seeking the closeness of her family, she joined her sister at Oberlin College where she was studying at its music conservatory. Betsch would later travel throughout Europe as an opera singer while Cole discovered a love for anthropology. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree, she went on to earn her master’s and doctoral degrees in Anthropology from Northwestern University. It was at Northwestern that she studied under the famous anthropologist Dr. Melville Jean Herskovits, who had himself studied under the man described as the ‘Father of Anthropology,’ Franz Boaz. (Zora Neale Hurston was a student of Boaz when she attended Columbia University). In his book “The Myth of the Negro Past,” Herskovits challenged the then popular belief that Black people were a race without history. His teachings coincided with Cole’s belief in social justice and equality, honed at her grandfather’s dining table, and that became a cornerstone of her work.
DEDICATION Blessed with a great sense of self determination, rather than rest in the comfort of her inheritance, Cole used it as a springboard. Her lust for learning and love for mankind shaped her life. The rich story of her ancestry coupled with the notable influences in her youth, fed her thirst for knowledge, her love for her people and her concern for the peoples of the world. She began teaching at 27 years old and later played a pivotal role in the founding and development of the Black Studies programs at Washington State University, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She also taught at Hunter College and Emory University.
(Sister Friends) Johnnetta B. Cole, Susan Taylor, Carol J. Alexander
ONYX MAGAZINE 13
Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole at American Beach Museum, American Beach, Florida.
In 1987, robed in a splendid garment fashioned from fabric handwoven by the Igbo women of the village of Akwete in Nigeria, she became the first female African American president of Spelman College, a historically Black women’s college. She served in that post until 1997 and, from 2002 to 2007, was president of Bennett College, another historically Black women’s college. “Cole was invited to Liberia by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female president of an African country (elected 2005). My family traveled to Liberia with Johnnetta,” continues Alexander , “and I ended up staying there to assist in the rebuilding of the National Museum of Liberia. The museum had been bombed. Johnnetta recommended me for a job at the museum. I remained there for five months, as a consultant. She has that kind of pull, she did that for me and she has done similar things for lots of people. She is always uplifting people, encouraging them to share their talents, learn and grow.” From 2009 to 2017, Dr. Johnnetta Cole was Director of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African Art. She was also the first woman elected to the board of Coca-Cola Enterprises, and elected Chair of the Board of Trustees of United Way of America. She also served as president of the Association of Art Museum Directors and was on the Advisory Board of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Her robes worn at her Spelman installation are on display at the museum. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Cole is also the recipient of more than 70 honorary degrees, and it would take a very long scroll to list the many organizations she has been involved with, not to mention the numerous lives she has influenced. At Spelman Cole made a point of continually reminding the young female students that “women can fly” and sometimes indulged in her own flights of fancy. “Often, after returning from a fundraising trip, I imagined that I might look up on the roof of Roosevelt Hall, and see the young women flapping their arms, convinced that they truly could fly,” she mused.
Valada Flewellyn is a poet and author in Orlando. 14 ONYX MAGAZINE
ONWARD As she looks back at her life and her involvement with so many organizations, Cole said: “the Women on the Move theme of ‘Providing Healing Promoting Hope’ is very pertinent and is one every woman should keep in mind as they strive to achieve their goals. “It was in the interest of selfcare and healing that I stepped down from the position of president of the National Council of Negro Women,” she revealed. “My life has been one of profound struggle and exceptional privilege, and what I mean by privilege is not just the privilege of being A.L. Lewis’ great granddaughter, but I mean the privilege of having as one of the earliest mentors in my life, the legendary Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. The privilege of being appointed to leadership roles held by great women, including the iconic Dr. Dorothy Irene Height,” she says with appreciation. “The greatest privilege has been to be in the struggle. Anyone who does not see that as a privilege, I think misunderstands what this is all about. It is a privilege to stand up and speak out for marginalize people, beginning with my own Black people.” Coles continues to use her platform to educate and fight for justice and equality and a fair playing field. She recently published a book of proverbs with the illustrator and co-collector Nelda LaTeef, “African Proverbs: For All Ages.” The book brings different generations together around the words and images that reflect the specific part of the continent where the proverb originated. In her preface she states: “When words fail us, proverbs are a bridge between the adult and the child's mind. They are a gateway to deeper connection and understanding.” The African continent has always held a special place in her heart that was cemented by travels there early in her life and her work as an anthropologist. “Africa is the birthplace of humanity. Every person on the earth can trace their origin back to Africa, which is why we refer to Africa as the ‘Motherland.’ If only,” she said in her distinctive voice, “White people will believe it.” When asked, ‘what are her thoughts, when she thinks of home,’ Cole responded: “When I think of home, I imagine myself back on American Beach, with Bootsey, her husband, Howard, and the family, attending Mt. Olive Baptist Church. Walking on American Beach.” Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole is the 2022 ONYX Magazine Woman of the Year. Her story is one that ONYX Magazine is proud to tell. Dr. Johnnetta Cole was arrested with others during a voting rights march in July 2021 in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole speaking at the Kingsley Plantation in Florida
BERTHA COOPER-ROUSSEAU INTERNATIONAL WOMAN ON THE MOVE MANAGING PARTNER ROUSSEAU & COOPER LAW FIRM, THE BAHAMAS
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But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you. Matthew 6:33
Based in The Bahamas, Bertha Cooper-Rousseau is the managing partner of Rousseau & Cooper Law Firm and a Door Tenant of 3 Hare Court in London, England. She has advised clients for almost three decades on complex commercial and maritime matters and specializes in international arbitration. Cooper-Rousseau is a former director of The Bahamas Maritime Authority and former consultant to the Government of The Bahamas on international arbitration development. She is presently the honorary counsel for the Republic of Botswana in The Bahamas. Cooper-Rousseau is widely recognized as one of The Bahamas’ leading legal pioneers for developing the legislative infrastructure for international arbitration and commercial mediation. She also is responsible for launching Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) capacity building for professionals and the judiciary in the Caribbean in collaboration with international institutions such as the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law and the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands. Cooper-Rousseau is the founding Chair of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Bahamas Branch. She is also the founding member of the Mid-Atlantic Caribbean Alternative Dispute Resolution Institute, a non-profit organization that focuses on providing an international ADR forum for professionals in African and Caribbean countries. Having been appointed by the Government of The Bahamas to serve on the Panel of Arbitrators and of Conciliators of the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (part of the World Bank Group), Cooper-Rousseau has served on numerous committees for annulment proceedings arising between States and investors in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and South America. She also is on the panels of several notable international arbitration and mediation institutions such as the International Centre for Dispute Resolution (the international division of the American Arbitration Association), Shanghai Arbitration Commission, Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre, and the British Virgin Islands International Arbitration Centre. Cooper-Rousseau studied French at the Sorbonne and attained her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in International Relations at L'Institut Libre d'Étude des Relations Internationales et des Sciences Politiques in Paris, France. Thereafter, she studied maritime law at Université de Bretagne Occidentale in Brest, France. Cooper-Rousseau obtained her Bachelor of Laws with Honours from the University of London in England. She is the dedicated mother of two daughters.
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ECO-FRIENDLY TRAVEL REDUCE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT WHEN YOU’RE ON THE ROAD. BY DANIELLE DORSEY
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ost of us travel out of love and passion for this great big earth we live on. We’re motivated to see more, to explore its natural wonders and learn the cultures it has helped to birth. That is why it is so important for travelers to be examples of how to wander with intention and do our best to preserve this planet which has given us so much.
PARTICIPATE IN ECOTOURISM Plan a trip centered around conservation efforts like helping baby sea turtles return to the wild or cleaning plastic and trash out of oceans and on beaches. If you’re not a fan of volunteering during your time off, you can visit protected natural landmarks like the Amazon rainforest, Antarctica, or the Galapagos Islands.
You might have noticed when booking flights that you’ll sometimes be presented with an option to book on a fuel-efficient airline. These are aircraft that generate few carbon emissions, thus reducing your travel footprint. These aircraft are often newer which means that buying a seat on them can sometimes cost a little more, but prices are likely to go down as more people opt for this option and create a demand for a fuel-efficient aircraft.
BOOK FLIGHTS WITH ECO-FRIENDLY AIRLINES Flying by plane does the most damage to the environment when compared to alternative methods of transportation, but sometimes it cannot be avoided. Thankfully, some airlines are making an effort to reduce carbon emissions, even offering an opportunity to purchase carbon offsets when booking your flight which is then invested in third-party projects designed to reduce carbon emissions.
BOOK ECONOMY Now when you sit in the economy class, you can say you are doing it for the environment! First class seats might offer more leg room, but that extra space increases the amount of fuel used per passenger.
FLY NONSTOP Flight changes can be tiresome and choosing to fly nonstop to your destination could save jet fuel. Choose an airline that’s committed to preserving the environment, which promotes the environmental health of their destinations and offers carbon offsets.
USE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION WHENEVER POSSIBLE Traveling by train or bus is a great way to meet locals and familiarize yourself with a new city and is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. If public transportation is not available, look into ridesharing apps. Some cit-
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ies take it a step further by using natural gas or cleaner fuel options rather than petroleum-based fuel.
BOOK AN ECO-FRIENDLY HOTEL Look for “LEED-certified” or “green certified” hotels when booking and search on the app Glooby for eco-friendly hotel options around the world.
REDUCE WATER WASTE Pack a reusable water bottle in your suitcase and you will save money and plastic bottles from being wasted. If you’re traveling somewhere where filtered water is a concern, you can shop reusable bottles that come with a built-in filter. If you’re planning on staying somewhere for a while, it might even be worth it to pack a reusable coffee mug.
GO EASY ON HOTEL AMENITIES Try to be more mindful and stick to similar habits that you keep at home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, laundry accounts for 16 percent of the average hotel’s water usage, meaning that you can make a difference by reusing sheets and towels.
TURN OFF YOUR ELECTRONICS WHILE AWAY Before you jump on your flight, make sure that your electronics at home are turned off. In addition to switching off the lights and turning down your thermostat, you can also unplug all of your electronics, which draw energy even if they’re fully charged or turned off.
THIS FULL ARTICLE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED IN TRAVEL NOIR AND WAS PRESENTED IN PARTERNSHIP WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES.
FLY ON A FUEL-EFFICIENT AIRCRAFT
WORKPLACE
BEING MY OWN BOSS FREELANCERS EMBRACE BUSINESS OWNERSHIP IN NEW ECONOMY.
STARTUPS ARE UP According to the Census Bureau, more than 5.4 million new businesses were created in the U.S. during 2021—up from 4.4 million in 2020. For reference, that’s a 24.3% increase from 2019 and 51.0% higher than the 2010-19 average. Data from a recent B2B survey shares how and why new small business owners took the leap, and why many may reap the benefits. Salesforce, the customer relationship management platform, found six reasons for a startup surge since COVID.
1. CREATIVITY IS CRITICAL
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2. BEING YOUR OWN BOSS IS THE ULTIMATE INSPIRATION While passion for your product or service and capitalizing on market needs are always motivating for entrepreneurs, there is perhaps no better perk to owning a business than being your own boss.
3. THE PANDEMIC ACCELERATED PLANS Although just over a quarter (25.1%) of the entrepreneurs surveyed said they had been laid-off or furloughed as a result of the pandemic, and needed income, most of them started their business for other reasons. Namely, they had either been planning an entrepreneurial move pre-COVID.
4. DIRECT-TO-CONSUMER IS THE MODEL OF CHOICE Last year’s crop of new small businesses is overwhelmingly business-to-consumer (B2C). According to salesforce data, roughly 80% of these businesses sell directly to consumers.
5. YOU DON’T NEED A TON OF CASH TO START A SIDE HUSTLE There is still some truth to the old adage, “It takes money to make money.” But it might not take as much as it used to. Over half (52%) of surveyed new small business owners launched their new companies with less than $10,000 in funding—and nearly half of that group had less than $5,000 on hand on opening day.
6. NEW BUSINESSES ARE “DIGITAL-FIRST” One reason so many new businesses could be born on small budgets is that they are digital-first, mostly requiring nothing in the way of physical space or equipment beyond a computer or even just a phone. For more on these six reasons, visit Saleforce’s blog.
MAIN STORY PROVIDED BY NEWS USA
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he number of independent workers, small business owners and freelancers in the United States continues to grow as more workers embrace the flexibility and autonomy of being their own bosses. However, being the boss also brings the need to wear many hats— office manager, marketing specialist, accountant, tech support—all while juggling multiple clients, time zones, and media platforms. In spite of the global pandemic, the freelance market continues to mature, driving a 22% increase in the workforce since 2019. This trend is expected to continue especially as companies have become more reliant on freelancers for essential contributions to their daily operations. Increasingly, independent workers are now shifting the way they self-identify away from the more conventional titles of “consultant” and “freelancer” in favor of more fluid terms such as “entrepreneur” to match the changing business climate. According to a recent 2021 survey of more than 200 independent workers by Indy, the all-inclusive, online platform for independent business owners, approximately 25 percent of respondents identified themselves as “business owners.” And regardless, these entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, freelancers and business owners all want the tools and resources needed to help ensure the professional operation of their businesses. That means they want solutions to help manage administrative tasks, including invoicing, billing, dealing with contracts, expenses and organizing workflow. Smart strategies help independent workers focus on delivering for their clients, maximizing their potential and competing in a decentralized marketplace. Whether they are working strictly on their own, or managing a few other employees in a small venture, Indy helps fill the niche for freelancers and small business owners by offering a complete productivity suite that streamlines operations with the time-saving support features that help any business run smoothly and successfully. “Ultimately, we believe in fostering community over competition and empowering today's indies'—the independent professionals, side hustlers and small business owners—to attain the stability and control required to be more successful, achieve a state of steady income and grow their business,” according to Sebastian Gyr, Indy co-founder and CEO.
Salesforce asked respondents to list the most important qualities an entrepreneur needed during the pandemic. Creativity was number one by a landslide, cited by 57% of those surveyed.
SCHOLARSHIP
ONYX FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS OPEN DOORS FOR STUDENTS
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n honor of three Florida women who have made significant impacts in the lives of students, the ONYX Magazine launched two new scholarships to help high school and college students complete college: The Udell T. Black & Linda Y. Braynen Achievement Scholarship and the Lillian Seays Achievement Scholarship. “Tuition hikes and the pandemic have heightened students’ needs for economic assistance while they are in school and making plans to go,” said Rich Black, the president and CEO of ONYX Magazine and the ONYX Foundation. “Financial aid is important, but we also are excited to create scholarships in the names of three very important women who have, in their lifetimes, served as resources and encouragers for students traversing higher education.” The late Udell T. Black was a trailblazer in her own right as a woman who left the comfort of the Bahamas to join her husband in America. They were the first Black owners of a restaurant in downtown Orlando. Black stressed to her eight children the importance of education. Each of them, including ONYX Magazine Publisher Rich Black, have thrived as professionals in their communities. A retiree from Guardian Care Rehabilitation Center, Black made a life of giving back to the people she cared most about. At 90 years old, Linda Braynen actively manages the 24 properties she owns in Fort Pierce, Fla. She and her late husband, Everett, began entrepreneurship in the 1960s by buying housing units and establishing comfort food restaurants—one that remained open for more than 18 years. Without hesitation, the Braynens delved into “owning their own” to make a
Udell T. Black
Linda Y. Braynen
Lillian B. Seays
better life for themselves and never looked back. As Rich Black’s aunt, Linda Braynen always spurred him to higher education and business ownership, which he credits for his success. The late Lillian Seays is the co-founder of ONYX Magazine. In 1997, she and her husband, Lester, started the now 25-year-old publication and made it sought-after in Black communities across Central Florida. Seays was an educator and librarian for more than 30 years in Florida schools. She was honored in 2016 when the Memorial Middle School Media Center was bestowed her name. While at Memorial, she led the building of a news studio in the media center where students and well-known media personalities broadcasted the news. The scholarships were first announced at the 2022 Women on the Move in Winter Park. Each year, the ONYX Foundation will work with high schools and colleges to identify and award new students. Among the inaugural group are:
KAAMIA HARRIS
Udell T. Black & Linda Y. Braynen Legacy Scholarship Kaamia Harris is a senior at Jones High School in Orlando, Fla. While attending high school, she developed a passion in the healthcare field as a student in the Medical Magnet Program. After graduation, Kaamia plans to attend Spelman University in Atlanta. Kaamia has chosen to major in biology and continue her educational path into pre-medicine. Her career goal is to become an OB/GYN with her own practice.
JORDYN JERRY
Udell T. Black & Linda Y. Braynen Legacy Scholarship Jordyn Jerry is a senior International Baccalaureate student with a 4.3 G.P.A. at Jones High School. She serves as senior class president, National Honor Society president, Beta Club member, Student Leadership Council member; and is a varsity athlete for volleyball and weightlifting. Jordyn received the MLK Humanitarian award and Boys and Girls Club Member of the Year nomination. She is a member of New Covenant Baptist Church, Delta GEMS and LANES Girls mentoring. Jordyn hosted a peaceful protest with other youth from her school, spoke at the Black Lives Matter mural painting event, and served as a panelist on Community Conversations with Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and Commissioner Bakari Burns. Jordyn plans to attend Spelman College or Tennessee State University to major in Sports Sciences and minor in Business finance. 20 ONYX MAGAZINE
TAMYA JONES
Udell T. Black & Linda Y. Braynen Legacy Scholarship Tamya Jones is a junior at Bethune-Cookman University from Orlando, Fla., majoring in computer science. She was accepted into the honors college before admission to Bethune-Cookman University and has maintained the position as an honors college scholar throughout her matriculation. With a 3.34 grade point average, she serves as the General Manager for Concert Chorale. She is the public relations chair for SISTUHS Incorporated. Black plans to pursue progressive roles in the software engineering industry and create a program for minority young women to learn coding. She realizes that many young Black women are intimidated by this male-dominated profession and plans to give them the needed motivation to follow their interests and receive encouragement from other like-minded individuals.
LAKE LINDO
Lillian Seays Achievement Scholarship Lake Lindo is a third-year medical student at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine. He graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Central Florida. As an Orlando native, he is grateful for the opportunity to connect with patients from the community he grew up in. While in medical school, Lake has assumed several leadership positions that allowed him to create and implement diversity-based initiatives that address disparities in healthcare and highlight the need for increased minority representation in medicine. As a visual artist, he has sought ways to combine the arts with medicine through collaborative projects that showcase the significance of humanistic medicine. Lake hopes to continue these endeavors as a physician and advocate for compassionate, patient-centered care for all patient populations.
JASMINE R. MCMILLION
Lillian Seays Achievement Scholarship Jasmine R. McMillion is currently in her third year of law school at Florida A&M University College of Law. Jasmine is originally from Illinois but now resides in Orlando, Florida. She holds an undergraduate degree in Political Science from Florida A&M University. In her spare time, Jasmine is active in the community through her many volunteer efforts and passionate about social justice and employment law. She is President of FAMU’s Black Law Students Association. She is also a member of the Orange County Bar Association and participates in the Labor and Employment Law committee. Jasmine plans to practice in the area of Employment Law, Probate, and Elder law. When she is not studying, Jasmine enjoys learning to play golf, painting, and reading. One of Jasmine’s favorite quotes is: “You miss 100% of the shots you never take.” —Michael Jordan.
NNAEMEKA UDE
Lillian Seays Achievement Scholarship Nnaemeka Ude is a recent graduate of the University of Central Florida where he majored in Biomedical Sciences. He is preparing to enter medical school in the fall of 2022. Currently, he works as a clinical research assistant and a pharmacy technician. At UCF, Nnaemeka was on the Dean’s List in the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences as well as the President’s Honor Roll for multiple semesters. He was a member of the African Student Organization, where he participated in its fourth annual scholarship pageant and served on their executive board for two terms. Nnaemeka was also a part of a professional service-based organization, Progressive Black Men, Inc., where he worked to help eradicate negative stereotypes placed upon those of African descent, especially African American men through volunteerism and community service.
ONYX MAGAZINE 21
BUSINESS
HELP SMALL BUSINESSES THRIVE
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GET TO KNOW YOUR COMMUNITY THROUGH ITS BUSINESSES Your support matters all year long. For many people, this means shifting their mindset to thinking about local options first and getting to know the types of products and services your local businesses are providing. Whether you are purchasing items for yourself or someone else, start to understand how these local businesses can fill your needs. Don't forget, many small businesses offer gift cards, which are wonderful ways to show ongoing support.
SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS SERVICE PROVIDERS Small businesses aren't just for tangible goods. Many provide important services, such as your local mechanic, dentist or insurance agent. So, no matter your needs, try and find businesses that are active in the community. You can spot these businesses by seeing how they engage with their neighbors. Look for the providers that are going above and beyond to support the neighborhood and other small businesses. By supporting those that have a strong investment in your community, you are helping them create a greater impact.
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"From doughnut shops to beverage distributors, from hair salons to warehouses, State Farm agents are perfectly suited to help small business owners protect their dreams, their livelihoods and their families," said Chief Agency, Sales & Marketing Officer and former State Farm Agent Rand Harbert. "We offer products and services business owners need, and State Farm agents are small business owners themselves."
SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE Many small businesses rely on satisfied customers to tell others so they can grow their client base. People trust word of mouth, so your effort makes a difference. In fact, more than eight out of 10 people around the world said they completely or somewhat trust the recommendations of friends and family, according to Nielsen. Plus, two-thirds said they trust online opinions from consumers. So, tell a friend in person, share a post on social media, or leave a positive review online. If you're a small business owner, consider using your platform to build up other entrepreneurs in your neighborhood. The next time you have a need arise, think of how a small business can help. Every effort counts to build your community, show your support, and ensure you continue to have thriving small businesses near you.
THIS STORY WAS PROVIDED BY BRAND POINT MEDIA.
here are millions of small businesses in the United States owned by passionate people working hard to make their dreams a reality. Rather than buying from a big retailer the next time you need something, consider supporting the locally owned businesses around you. When you support a small business, you're not only helping build your community, but also directly impacting someone's life. Every customer counts when it comes to small business, which means your dollars can help that small business owner thrive. For example, as the nation's largest insurer, State Farm has more than 19,000 agents who are small business owners themselves, who are committed to restoring lives, rebuilding neighborhoods and investing in the communities where they live and work. This desire to help started 100 years ago when the company was founded by a farmer who was concerned that big city insurance companies would not serve the specific needs of his business and community. Here are three simple ways to support small businesses and have a positive impact:
KAMIA L. BROWN LEGISLATOR FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, DISTRICT 45
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State Representative Kamia L. Brown is a Florida native, born and raised in Orlando. She has excelled in the roles of leadership, relationship-building, problem resolution, and being of great service to the public. Brown holds extensive knowledge of laws, the legislative and political processes and protocol, as well as experience with non-profit community organizations and fundraising. In November 2016, Brown was elected to the Florida House of Representatives and re-elected unopposed in both 2018 and 2020, representing the 45th district which includes West Orange County. Today, Brown is the House Democratic Leader Pro Tempore, and vice chair of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus. She currently serves on the Health Care Appropriations Subcommittee as the Democratic Ranking Member, Appropriations Committee, Health & Human Services Committee, Rules Committee, Congressional Redistricting Subcommittee, Insurance & Banking Subcommittee, and the Tourism, Infrastructure & Energy Subcommittee. A proud Florida A&M University Rattler, Brown has received several awards from various organizations for her policy work including Legislative Aide of the Year, Legislator of the Year, and most recently, the inaugural Champions for Children Award, presented by Nemours Children’s Hospital for her work on extending postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60-days to a full year with roughly $240 million assigned in the budget toward this cause. As a woman who has always been committed to public service with a passion for people, Brown understands the importance of building her community and is a huge advocate for small business health care access and community development. Brown is a member of various local and national organizations including The Links, Incorporated, where she serves as committee chair for National Trends and Services. She serves as a board member of the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, a national board member for the Youth Advocate Programs, Inc., National Conference of Black State Legislators, and the National Organization of Black Elected Legislative Women.
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Just keep going.
TINA COMMODORE TINA COMMODORE NEWS DIRECTOR WFTV-TV
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Tina Commodore is the news director at WFTV-TV in Orlando, Fla. A Columbus, Ohio, native, Commodore received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications at Central State University and her master’s degree in Telecommunications Management from Ohio University. She began her career as an assignment editor at WRIC T.V. in Richmond, Va. Since then, she has worked at several television stations including CNN in Atlanta, WLWT-TV in Cincinnati, Ohio, and WBNS-TV in Columbus, Ohio, WSB-TV in Atlanta, and KOKI in Tulsa, Ok., to name a few. Commodore is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Orange County (FL) Alumnae chapter. She also is a member of National Association of Black Journalist. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with her husband, Craig. She is the proud mom of Amani Rai, who is a graduating senior at Florida State University.
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You must be the change you wish to see in the world. –Mahatma Gandhi
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JOYCE COTTON DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP FLORIDA WEST COAST PUBLIC BROADCASTING – WEDU PBS
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Joyce Cotton has worked in the television industry for more than 40 years, beginning her broadcasting career with Scripps Howard Broadcasting WEWS in Cleveland, Ohio. February 2022 marked her 21st anniversary at WEDU, west-central Florida’s leading PBS station and public media company. She is responsible for developing corporate and non-profit community partnership support for this public media television station; offering multiple marketing and branding opportunities for exposure and partnerships through television programming, interactive website, wedu. org and various social media platforms, monthly member magazine “Premiere,” award-winning special events, documentary, community engagement and educational outreach initiatives. Cotton is actively involved in the Tampa Bay community and currently serves as a volunteer on the boards of directors for Alpha House of Tampa Bay, Champions for Children, Community Tampa Bay, The Grazer Children’s Museum, Friends of the Union Station, and Ruth Eckerd Hall. In addition, Cotton previously served as a volunteer on the board of directors for PACE Center for Girls, Pinellas and Hillsborough, The American Red Cross Tampa Bay Chapter, Meals on Wheels, Computer Mentors, Community Steppingstone, and is a founding member of e-Women Network Tampa Chapter. She volunteers and contributes her time and resources to many other non-profit organizations, including serving as a mentor at the Young Women’s Leadership Symposium hosted by the Tampa Bay Diversity Council. In addition, she annually participates in National Disability Mentoring Day and Great American Teach-In. As a result of her extensive business and community involvement, Cotton was recognized by the Tampa Bay Business Journal as Businesswoman of the Year in the Media Category in 2004 and 2009. Cotton is the mother of two children, Lawrence and Katurah.
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While I know myself as a creation of God, I am also obligated to realize and remember that everyone else and everything else are also God's creations. –Maya Angelou
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MARILYN DRAYTON SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT COMMUNITY RELATIONS, FLORIDA & SOUTHEAST WELLS FARGO & COMPANY
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Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved. –Helen Keller
Marilyn Drayton is senior vice president and community relations senior manager, leading all community relations efforts for Wells Fargo’s Florida and Southeast region—Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, and Mississippi. In her role, she manages the company's community relations strategic initiatives, programmatic activities, strategic philanthropy, and market reputation risk. She works closely with line of business executives and market leaders influencing positive outcomes and community solutions focused on housing affordability, small business growth, financial health, sustainability and racial equity throughout local markets. Prior to joining Wells Fargo, she served as South Region group manager for Community Development at TD Bank with responsibilities for the Carolinas and Florida regions. She was integral in managing the bank's New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC), low-income housing tax credit, and community development financial institutions lending and investment efforts. She served as a director and vice president of TD Community Development Corporation, managing the bank's NMTC Advisory Board. In this role, she was instrumental in the bank securing multiple NMTC allocation awards totaling $325 million. She has received several industry awards and community leadership recognitions including: • Martin Luther King Dream Movers Award • Black Women Visionaries: Community Advocate Award • James E. Huger Community Leadership Award • Florida Affordable Housing Leadership Award • S.C. Community Development Award • Mayor's Key to the City of Columbia, S.C. • National Council of Negro Women “Living the Legacy” Award Additionally, Drayton has served as a presenter and panelist at industry conferences relative to diversity, CRA and community development best practices. She serves as a member of various boards to include the Black Business Investment Fund, Florida Community Loan Fund, Florida Housing Coalition, Past President of the SC Association of Community Development Corporations and the Affordable Housing Coalition of South Carolina. She is a longtime supporter and volunteer with the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, Clara White Mission, and Pine Castle.
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
KEEP HIM HEALTHY FIVE TIPS TO CARE FOR THE MAN IN YOUR LIFE BY DR. EVA BEAULIEU
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n most parts of the world, health outcomes among men continue to be substantially worse than among women. Men tend to suffer more severe conditions than women, they have higher death rates for most leading causes of death and they die about six years younger than women. By the age of 55, approximately 75% of Black men will develop high blood pressure. Forty percent of Black men die prematurely from cardiovascular disease as compared to 21% of White men. Forty-four percent of Black men are considered overweight and 24% are obese. Men are statistically shown to make less frequent visits to the doctor than women. And when they see a doctor, they are less likely to report on the symptoms of disease or illness. In fact, most men tend to skip the doctor until they become sick or are faced with a serious health problem. Unfortunately, many of the health issues men face are preventable and treatable. In most households, it is often the woman who takes control of the health and wellbeing of the family. With this in mind, here are five tips to help women guide the men in their lives toward a healthier lifestyle.
1. BE INTENTIONAL WHEN SCHEDULING DOCTOR VISITS Try to schedule your appointments for the same day. Scheduling yearly check-ups are important in preventing and diagnosing issues earlier on before they become a problem.
2. EXERCISE REGULARLY TOGETHER Exercise can help prevent heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and colon cancer. It can help treat depression, osteoporosis and high blood pressure, too. Try to get 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week. Taking a walk together, jogging, swimming, and mowing the lawn all count!
3. EAT HEALTHIER AT HOME Try cooking at home more rather than eating out. Saturated fats are bad for arteries and heart health. They can also have a negative effect on concentration and memory. Cut back on the red meat, butter, and other such foods. Add more fish, plants, vegetables, fruits, flaxseed, nuts, etc. Increase the intake of Omega 3 fatty acids which are associated with keeping blood vessels healthy and keeping blood pressure down.
4. MANAGE STRESS TOGETHER Most men feel the pressure of being the provider and head of the household, which raises stress levels. Stress can take a toll on emotional and physical health. Help your man de-stress by scheduling couples massages, going out on date nights more, meditating together, etc.
5. SLEEP HYGIENE IS IMPORTANT Getting enough sleep (at least 7 hours each night) helps lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease, helps with staying at a healthy weight, helps with lowering blood pressure, helps with improving mood and thinking 28 ONYX MAGAZINE
more clearly. Women should encourage the men in their lives to have a healthy and consistent sleep routine, avoid nicotine altogether, avoid caffeine and alcohol late in the day and avoid napping after 3 pm. Always remember that just because you are healthy does not mean you are off the hook! Health protection and prevention are the keys to staying healthy for the long haul. Find a doctor you like and start building a physician-patient relationship. Dr. Eva Beaulieu has practiced medicine for 11 years as an internal medicine hospitalist. She specializes in treating patients with high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.
SUICIDE PREVENTION— YOU CAN HELP
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rayers and cries poured in for actress Regina King after her family released a statement that her only son had committed suicide. The 26-year-old Ian had openly discussed bouts of sadness. The CEO of transportation system MARTA in Atlanta waited for the precise moment a train would cross his path. Then, Jeffrey Parker, 56, stepped onto the tracks, ending his life. After Tweeting a message of peace and rest, 30-year-old Chelsie Kryst jumped from a 29th-floor balcony and died on the New York street below. The former Miss USA advocated for mental health as her pageant platform. These tragic deaths happened within mere weeks of each other, leaving us all wondering: did anyone see the signs? A 2018 study found that Black children between the ages of five and 12 are about twice as likely to die by suicide as White children of the same age. The urgency to deal with the issue has only grown more acute. A new study found that suicide rates among Black children and adolescents have recently been worsening: between 2003 and 2017, suicides rose in this group, especially among Black girls, whose rate of increase was more than twice as high as that of Black boys. In the new paper, published on September 8, 2021, in the “Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry,” researchers extracted information from Centers of Disease Control and Prevention databases about the 1,810 Black people aged five to 17 who had died by suicide between 2003 and 2017. They found that suicides rose over time during that period among Black youth of all ages and that the biggest increases occurred among teens aged 15 to 17. More than 2.5 times as many Black boys died by suicide as Black girls, but the annual increase among girls—6.6 percent—was more than twice what it was for boys. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, in 2019, suicide was the second leading cause of death for Blacks or African Americans, ages 15 to 24.1; and the death rate from suicide for Black or African
American men was four times greater than for African American women, in 2018. These statistics have the medical world on full alarm. How can you help? Know the warning signs of suicide. They may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these, seek help by calling the Lifeline. • • • • • • • • • • •
Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain Talking about being a burden to others Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly Sleeping too little or too much Withdrawing or isolating themselves Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge Extreme mood swings If you feel like hurting yourself, get help now. Call 1-800-273-8255.
GET SCREENED – COLORECTAL AWARENESS MONTH March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer, or CRC, is a disease of the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. Unlike most cancers, colorectal cancer is often preventable with screening and highly treatable when detected early. Most cases of colorectal cancer occur in people ages 45 and older, but the disease is increasingly affecting younger people. Each year, about 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with this disease and more than 50,000 die. Colorectal cancer may develop without symptoms. If you are 45 or older and at average risk, it's time to get screened. With screening, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are also highly treatable if caught early. While rates of colorectal cancer have been falling in older age groups in recent years, they’ve actually been rising among younger people. Colorectal cancer also disproportionately affects the Black community, where the rates are the highest of any racial/ethnic group in the US. African Americans are about 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and about 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups. Colorectal Cancer Alliance/American Cancer Society
ONYX MAGAZINE 29
SOCIAL JUSTICE
CRITICAL RACE THEORY HOW SCHOLARS ARE COUNTERING WELL-FUNDED ATTACKS ON IT.
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nvoking Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in mid-December, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced new legislation that allows parents to sue schools for teaching critical race theory. “You think about what MLK stood for. He said he didn’t want people judged on the color of their skin, but on the content of their character,” said DeSantis, a political ringleader in the latest chapter of the United States’ culture war. In using a quote from Dr. King to justify an attack on curricula that uplifts racial justice, the Republican governor inadvertently created a strong case for why critical thinking on the history of race and racism in the U.S. is necessary. History professor Robin D. G. Kelley is all too familiar with the sort of contradictory statements like those DeSantis spouted. Kelley, who is the Gary B. Nash Endowed Chair in U.S. History at the University of California, Los Angeles, explains that he “came into the profession at the height of a battleground over history, in the 1980s, with the war on political correctness.” And although he’s lived through decades of conservative-led attacks, like those by DeSantis, he describes the 2020s as “dangerous times.”
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Robin D. G. Kelley
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis
THE ORIGINS OF CRT Kelley sees right-wing attacks on CRT—what he considers an umbrella term for the teaching of “any kind of revisionist or multicultural history”—as a measure of the success communities of color and progressive parents and teachers have had after pushing for years to ensure that educational curricula reflect racially and ethnically diverse classrooms.
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN REPUBLISHED UNDER A CREATIVE LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH YES! MAGAZINE. VISIT WWW.YESMAGAZINE.COM
BY SONALI KOLHAKTAR
The most recent movement for such education can be traced to the Freedom Schools of the 1960s, which, in the words of educators Deborah Menkart and Jenice L. View, “were intended to counter the ‘sharecropper education’ received by so many African Americans and poor whites.” In a civil rights history lesson created for Teaching for Change, Menkart and View explained that the education offered in nearly 40 such schools centered on “a progressive curriculum … designed to prepare disenfranchised African Americans to become active political actors on their own behalf.” In 1968, after months of pressure from student activists, San Francisco State University established the first College of Ethnic Studies in the U.S. A movement to offer ethnic studies courses in public schools, including colleges and universities, has gained traction nationwide. Such education is now standard fare as part of required college courses. California remains on the cutting edge of multicultural education, becoming the first state in the nation, in October 2021, to require high schoolers to enroll in ethnic studies courses in order to graduate. Leading African American scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw, a law professor at UCLA, coined the term “critical race theory” and co-edited the book of the same name, which published in 1996, to define race as a social construct and provide a framework for understanding the way it shapes public policy. Crenshaw explained in a New York Times article that CRT, originally used by academics and social scientists to analyze educational inequities, “is a way of seeing, attending to, accounting for, tracing and analyzing the ways that race is produced … the ways that racial inequality is facilitated, and the ways that our history has created these inequalities that now can be almost effortlessly reproduced unless we attend to the existence of these inequalities.”
UNDERSTANDING THE ATTACKS ON CRT Critical race theory is precisely the sort of nuanced educational lens that Crenshaw, Kelley, and others use in their courses and that has White supremacist forces up in arms. Attacks against CRT are taking the form of multi-pronged legislative restrictions and even bans, as well as firings of teachers accused of teaching biased histories. Kelley sees conservatives like DeSantis working relentlessly to eliminate any education that actually reckons with the history of American slavery, the genocide of Indigenous peoples and dispossession of their lands, sexism and patriarchy, and gender and gender identity. Reflecting again on the ’80s, he says the attacks on ethnic studies, culture, and race didn’t only come from the Right. “In fact,” he says, they also came from “liberals, from the Left,” and from those saying “we’re not paying enough attention to class [struggles].” Kelley cites “classic liberal fatigue” against ongoing demands for racial justice, which he encapsulates in responses such as, “We already gave you some money, we already gave you this legislation, what else do you want to ask for? Why are you criticizing us?” A case in point about how liberal figures are joining the right-wing war on CRT is a new venture called the University of Austin, Texas, created by a group of public figures led by former New York Times writer Bari Weiss. Weiss, in an op-ed in the Times, cited unpopular ideas, such as “Identity politics is a toxic ideology that is tearing American society apart.” She expressed dismay that such an opinion—generally considered a racist one—is shunned by many academics. To counter what Weiss considers censorship, UATX’s founders say they are devoted to “the unfettered pursuit of truth” and are promoting a curriculum that will include the “Forbidden Courses” centering on “the most provocative questions that often lead to censorship or self-censorship in many universities.”
As if to underscore Kelley’s warning about liberals joining the right-wing culture war, the nascent university’s board of advisors includes figures like Lawrence Summers, former U.S. treasury secretary and former President Barack Obama’s economic adviser, who is a Distinguished Senior Fellow at the left-leaning Center for American Progress.
A COUNTER TO THE MONEYED INTERESTS BACKING CRT ATTACKS Kelley sees a difference between earlier battles over political correctness and those centered on CRT today. “The Right has far more political weapons. They are actually engaged in a kind of McCarthyite attack on school teachers, the academy, on students, on families, and passing legislation on what’s called critical race theory,” he says. Right-wing narratives have cast the backlash against CRT as a grassroots effort led by parents concerned about bias in their children’s education. But secretive and powerful moneyed interests are at work behind the scenes. The watchdog group Open Secrets recently exposed how right-wing organizations, like the Concord Fund, are part of “a network of established dark money groups funded by secret donors … stoking the purportedly ‘organic’ anti-CRT sentiment.” Additionally, CNBC reporter Brian Schwartz exposed how “business executives and wealthy Republican donors helped fund attacks” on CRT and that it is expected to be a centerpiece of the GOP’s campaign ahead of the 2022 midterm elections. In contrast to the politically formidable and well-funded forces arrayed in opposition to CRT, the Marguerite Casey Foundation each year gives out unrestricted funds to prominent thinkers, like Kelley, to counter “the limited financial resources and research constraints frequently faced by scholars whose work supports social movements.” The Foundation chose six scholars whom it describes as doing “leading research in critical fields.” Those include abolition and Black, Latino, feminist, queer, radical, and anti-colonialist studies, which are precisely the fields that are anathema to anti-CRT forces. Kelley, who was named one of the foundation’s 2021 Freedom Scholars, agrees that such funding can help level the playing field for academics working to expand educational curricula that challenge White supremacist and patriarchal histories. Going beyond defensive countermeasures against the right-wing attacks on CRT, such awards can help fund the study of histories of social justice movements that are thriving. “We’re beginning to break through the narrative of civil rights begets Black Power, [which] begets radical feminism,” says Kelley, citing grassroots change-making groups that have been active over the past 50 years through today and that have not gotten enough attention, such as the Third World Women’s Alliance, the Boggs Center, the Combahee River Collective, The Red Nation, and INCITE! Women of Color Against Violence. “Just in the last two decades, we’re seeing so many amazing movements whose history is being written as we speak,” says Kelley. He is heartened by what he calls “new scholarship” that is “thinking transnationally, thinking globally, and moving away from a focus on mostly [White] male leadership and thinkers,” giving way instead to the “political and intellectual work of those who have a different vision of the future.” Sonali Kolhatkar is the racial justice editor at YES! Media and a writing fellow with Independent Media Institute. ONYX MAGAZINE 31
SMART TIPS
DON’T GET STRANDED GREAT TIPS TO BE SAFE AND TAKE CARE OF YOUR RIDE
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omen make a lot of the car decisions—what to purchase, who repairs it. However, many women don’t feel comfortable when it comes to taking care of their vehicles. Often, mechanics take advantage of women because of their uncertainty. Here are some car care tips that will help you feel more confident.
CHECK YOUR CAR’S MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE Look at the owner’s manual for the maintenance schedule which will give you all the details on when you should change the oil, air filters, fluid flushes and much more. It is best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to keep your car running in tip-top shape.
FIND A LOCAL MECHANIC It is best to have a mechanic vetted before you have a car emergency. Ask your friends and family for referrals. Look at online reviews. Make sure mechanics can explain exactly what the problem is, what they need to do to fix it and that they give you a written estimate. Also, insist they call you when they run into issues and that they don not make a move without discussing new approaches and new costs with you first.
KEEP A QUARTER TANK OF GAS IN YOUR CAR Do not wait until your car is almost empty before you fill it up. If your car gets low on gas, there is less fuel to lubricate the fuel pump and it could burn out. If your fuel pump burns out, your car won’t start, and you might need to get your fuel pump replaced. Additionally, you want to make sure you have enough gas just in case you get stuck on the freeway.
THESE TIPS PROVIDED BY NEIL HUFFMAN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP
CHANGE YOUR OIL Oil is the lifeblood of your car. Unlike some emergency repairs, a car that needs an oil change can keep going. But eventually, it will catch up to you and your car will stop working. And when it does, the damage will be serious, and you will likely need a new engine.
PAY ATTENTION TO THE WARNING LIGHTS If any of your dashboard warning lights light up – pay attention! Find out what the light means and get the issue taken care of as soon as possible.
KNOW HOW TO CHANGE A TIRE AND CHECK TIRE PRESSURE Ask someone you know or your mechanic to show you how to properly change your tire. Make sure you have all the equipment you need–including a spare tire in your trunk. It is also important to make sure your tires are filled to the proper tire pressure.
CHECK YOUR WIPER BLADES Keep paper towels in your trunk so that you can pull over and wipe off the wiper blades if they get covered in dirt or grime when you’re on a road trip. You also want to replace worn wiper blades when needed. Inspect your wiper blades every six months and replace them once a year because wiper blades deteriorate over time because of all the road debris, chemicals, and exposure to the weather.
CHECK YOUR BATTERY Battery failure is one of the main causes of breakdowns. Batteries usually last about five years. And depending on weather conditions, some batteries have a harder time than others – especially if they’re subjected to extreme temperatures. To keep your battery in shape, make sure your battery is less than four years old. Most car shops have a battery test they can run to find out how old your battery is.
CHECK WHERE YOU PARK Check the spot where you park your car and see if there are any leaks or puddles. If your car is dripping oil, anti-freeze or even water, get it checked out at an auto repair shop as soon as possible.
BE PREPARED FOR EMERGENCIES Make sure you have your insurance card with you so that in case you have an emergency, you can call for roadside assistance. You should also text a close friend or family member to let them know exactly where you are at so someone knows your whereabouts. ONYX MAGAZINE 33
VICKI-ELAINE FELDER SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS DISTRICT 5
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Vicki-Elaine Felder was elected to the School Board representing District 5 in November 2020. She is known as a wordsmith and orator. She paints the power of words and ideas on the minds and canvas of those who hear her—especially her students. She possesses the versatility to reach for hidden potential found in all her students. Felder is a lifelong resident who lives in the beautiful Washington Shores community in Orlando. She is a masterful teacher who has committed 39 impactful years in the classroom for Orange County Public Schools. Her unwavering service as an educator includes teaching in the subject areas of Drama, Film Study as a Narrative, American Literature, British Literature, and African American Literature. Her teaching assignments included Dr. Phillips High School, Maynard Evans High, Edgewater High, and Valencia College Summer Academic Program for accelerated students from Jones High. Additionally, she has served as an English tutor for students from Edgewater High for the Rollins College Upward Bound Program. Felder attended Eccleston and Washington Shores elementary schools, Carver Middle and the historic Jones High. In addition, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Spelman College, and a Master of Arts degree in Speech and Theatre from Kansas State University. She completed post-graduate work in English from the University of Central Florida and completed work in Cinema and Film Study as a Narrative from the TISCH School of the Arts at New York University. In the summer of 2020, she received a Master of Arts degree in Christian Ministry from the Bethune-Cookman University School of Religion. Felder conducted research as a Fulbright-Hays Scholar on the art and architecture of India; was the first teacher from Dr. Phillips High School to represent the Center for International Studies Program in a summer teaching assignment in Taiwan; served as an educational facilitator to South Africa in the township of Ganrankuwa in Pretoria; and assisted in the rebuilding of the educational communities after the historical election of Nelson Mandela as South Africa’s first Black president.
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Don't allow your circumstances to determine your destiny. –Unknown
ANGELA L. FIELDS, M.D. PEDIATRICIAN ORLANDO HEALTH
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What you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.
When I was a small child, I wanted to be a Ninja. Unfortunately, that desire did not last too long. I soon realized that was not an optimal career choice for a small child from Detroit, Mich. I then decided that I wanted to be a doctor when I grew up…and that has been my driving force ever since. My answer was always the same throughout elementary school, junior high, and high school whenever asked what I wanted to do with my life. “I want to be a doctor.” So, when I entered college in 1988 at Spelman College in Atlanta, I never thought twice about my major or future goals. After graduating college, I continued onto Case Western Medical School in Cleveland, Ohio, where I completed my medical degree. Afterward, I advanced to my pediatric residency at Rush University in Chicago, Ill. During that time, my parents retired to Orlando, Fla. Upon completing my three-year residency in Chicago's fabulous but frigid metropolis, I realized I was exhausted and sick of cold weather and snow. Thus, I followed my parents to the warm climate of Florida. After spending several months in the Sunshine State (most importantly, a balmy October and November that consisted of me wearing primarily T-shirts and shorts), I realized this was the place for me! I have practiced pediatric medicine in central Florida for the past 20 years. It was a long journey but a worthwhile one. Nothing worth having in life comes easily—and a fulfilling and enriching career is no different. I am so honored that so many parents have entrusted me with their greatest gifts—their children. I am equally flattered and honored that ONYX Magazine has nominated me as one of 2022 Women on the Move.
–Maya Angelou
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DONNA GILMER, M.B.A., C.D.P. DIVERSITY AND MINORITY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER ORLANDO HEALTH
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Donna Gilmer is the Diversity and Minority Business Development Manager for Orlando Health. She is responsible for managing all aspects of diversity, equity & inclusion as well as providing access, growth, and development to more than 800 diverse suppliers and small business through the Supplier Diversity Program. With 16 years of extensive diversity experience, she also manages all the diversity training for Orlando Health’s 23,000 employees. As a strong advocate for diversity, mentorship and community involvement, Gilmer has received many awards for her work in diversity and led Orlando Health to receive the prestigious Corporation of the Year award from the Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council in 2021. As a frequent speaker and panelist in various supplier diversity educational workshops, industry seminars and other activities, she is thankful to have the platform at Orlando Health to enhance and impact diversity in the workplace, workforce and marketplace. Gilmer is a native of Michigan and now lives in Florida. She previously worked for General Motors Company and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. She holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Phoenix, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Tennessee State University and holds a certification from the Society for Diversity as a Certified Diversity Professional.
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Don’t wait for opportunity, Create it. –Unknown Author
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JOYCELYN HENSON, ED.D. OFFICE OF BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
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Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.
Joycelyn Henson, Ed.D., is an Orlando native and a proud graduate of Orlando Jones High School. Certified in Contract Compliance (CCA), she currently leads the supplier diversity programs for Orange County Public Schools, the 8th largest school district in the nation. Under Henson’s leadership, the department has spent millions of dollars with minority- and women-owned businesses. During her 17-year tenure in this role, many small businesses have attributed the district’s innovative approach and progressive programs for their growth and success. She is known throughout the business community as a strong advocate for small businesses and has received several awards including the “Orlando Business Journal’s” Diversity in Business Helping Hand award. She currently serves as a board member for the Central Florida Chapter of the National Association of Minority Contractors. Considered an expert in her field, Henson is frequently a guest speaker and panelist for local small business conferences. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics and African American Studies from Duke University, a master’s degree in Business Administration from the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College, and a doctor of education degree from the University of Central Florida. She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Jack and Jill of America and Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church of Mulberry. She is married to Lieutenant Colonel Craig Henson and they have four children, Bryan, Blake, Bernice and Bailey.
–Winston Churchill
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FLORIDA SCOPE
FLORIDA NATIVE JUDGE KETANJI BROWN JACKSON IS PRES. BIDEN SUPREME COURT PICK President Joe Biden nominated Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to serve as the next Justice on the Supreme Court. Judge Jackson is one of our nation’s brightest legal minds and has an unusual breadth of experience in our legal system, giving her the perspective to be an exceptional Justice. She graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University, then attended Harvard Law School, where she graduated cum laude and was an editor of the Harvard Law Review. Judge Jackson was born in Washington, DC and grew up in Miami, Florida. In his decision, Biden sought a candidate with exceptional credentials, unimpeachable character, and unwavering dedication to the rule of law. And the President sought an individual who is committed to equal justice under the law and who understands the profound impact that the Supreme Court’s decisions have on the lives of the American people. —White House
MAIL-IN VOTING TARGETED AGAIN Republican legislative leaders for the second year in a row are targeting mail-in voting, this time with a proposal Lake County Supervisor of Elections Alan Hays, a Republican who is a former state senator, called “a recipe for disaster.” The House and Senate in February began moving forward with far-reaching measures that would create a statewide elections security force, require elections supervisors to scrub the voting rolls more often and make voters provide personal identification data on mail-in ballots. Under current law, voters enclose completed mail-in ballots inside “secrecy” envelopes or sleeves before putting them inside another envelope to be mailed to county supervisors of elections or submitted at drop boxes manned by supervisors’ staff. The proposals (SB 524, HB 7067) would require voters to put their double-enveloped ballots inside a third envelope and mark the last four digits of their driver’s license numbers, Social Secu-
rity numbers, or state ID numbers–whichever number is on file with the election supervisor’s office–to be counted. Florida voters already have to provide the last four digits of the identification on file with the supervisors’ office to request mail-in ballots, a provision that was included in an elections bill (SB 90) passed last year. Some voting-rights organizations filed federal lawsuits challenging the 2021 law, alleging that it was intended to make it more difficult for Black and Hispanic voters to cast ballots by mail, and cause challenges for elderly citizens and those with certain disabilities. —Orlando Sentinel
TEACHERS STILL WAIT FOR RAISE After passing a new law to increase teacher salaries in 2020, Florida still has not delivered the minimum pay it promised to every teacher in the state. In June 2020, DeSantis signed the legislature’s House Bill 641, which approved $500 million of the state’s budget to increase the minimum or base salaries of all teachers in Florida. From those funds, $400 million was dedicated to raise base pay for full-time teachers in the classroom, and $100 million for increasing salaries for “Florida’s veteran teachers and other instructional personnel.” —WFLA
BILL PROTECTS HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS With the state still grappling with the coronavirus pandemic, the Florida House on Thursday gave final approval to a bill that would extend COVID19 legal protections for hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers. The House voted 87-31 to pass the measure (SB 7014), which was approved last month by the Senate. It is now ready to go to Gov. Ron DeSantis. —WFLA
SMALL CROPS COULD MEAN EXPENSIVE OJ Orange juice, a staple at the breakfast table and a champagne-laced treat for brunch, could get more expensive as Florida groves are expected to grow their smallest orange crop in more than 75 years. Florida’s thinner harvest, forecast to be down 18% from last season, comes at the same time orange juice from concentrate has gone up in price, rising 13.8% in 2021, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. —Orlando Sentinel
UF LAUNCHES PROGRAM FOR SMALL/DIVERSE BUSINESSES The University of Florida has announced the launch of its Emerging Small Business Program to diversify the construction industry in Alachua and surrounding counties. The Emerging Small Business Program is a two-year course designed to develop small and diverse businesses within the construction industry. Dwan Courtney, Director at UF Small Business & Supplier Diversity said the main thing they want people to understand is that the University of Florida is an institution that wants to work with a small and diverse business community. —WGFL
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THE QUAD EWU GETS $3 MILLION IN IMPACT GRANTS
Florida A&M President Dr Larry Robinson meets with Florida State University President Richard McCullough.and Danfoss Turbocor President Ricardo Schneider.
FAMU ENGINEERING STUDENTS GET NEW SCHOLARSHIP Florida A&M University President Larry Robinson, Ph.D., joined Florida State University President Richard D. McCullough, Ph.D., Thursday to announce a $750,000, five-year agreement with Danfoss Turbocor to fund scholarships and provide research opportunities for faculty and students at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering (COE). “The relationship between the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering and Danfoss Turbocor illustrates the ingenuity of our faculty and staff, and their commitment to provide meaningful impacts on our students and society through research and development,” Robinson said. “This agreement is a very positive step forward in support of our goal to recruit and retain the best and brightest students from underrepresented groups in STEM disciplines.” The agreement, which was officially signed on November 12, established the Danfoss FAMU-FSU College of Engineering Fund. The fund will award about 10 grants per year to undergraduate and graduate students from either university at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. Undergraduate fellowships will focus on first- or second-year engineering students, focus on first-generation college students or those who belong to an underrepresented group. The fund will also support graduate research fellows and faculty fellows each year who are engaged in research that is of interest to Danfoss. Andrew Skerritt, Florida A&M University
The Propel Center, committed to advancing equity in education by serving as a global leadership and innovation hub for HBCUs, announced the 15 institutions from throughout the nation selected to receive $3 million collectively for their stellar impact grant submissions centered around Agri-tech and Arts & Entertainment initiatives. Upon careful consideration of the 44 impressive proposals submitted, the Propel Center named the University of the District of Columbia, Morehouse School of Medicine, Delaware State University Foundation, Alabama State University, and Southern University Agricultural Research & Extension Center, and the Southern University Law Center as the five finalists to be awarded Agri-tech grants. Likewise, Edward Waters University, Jackson State University, Prairie View A & M University, Wiley College, Bishop State Community College, Miles College, Bethune Cookman University, Benedict College, Simmons College of Kentucky, and HBCUvc were chosen for funding focused on the Arts & Entertainment. “We were blown away by the innovation in the projects these institutions presented, and we are super excited about the tremendous expansion and exposure the students at these institutions will gain from their involvement in these groundbreaking initiatives,” revealed Dr. Cortney Harris, the vice president of Impact and Engagement at Propel. Harris embraces Propel’s mission to prepare generations of black leaders who will leverage technology, creativity, and dynamic problem solving to accelerate educational equity. “We believe all students should have access to the tools, resources, and opportunities to change the world,” said Lisa Jackson, the vice president of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives at Apple. “The HBCU community is full of creativity and vision, and we’re proud to support new programming and pathways to drive meaningful change through the Propel Impact Grants.” Edward Waters University ONYX MAGAZINE 39
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ENVIRONMENT
DOING MY PART 4 WAYS TO HELP THE ENVIRONMENT IN 2022 BY VINIECE JENNINGS
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hen many people think of resolutions, they brainstorm ways to improve themselves for the year ahead. What if we expanded those aspirations to include resolutions that benefit our communities, society and the planet, too? It might not be a typical approach, but it can broaden your horizons to show ways you can also be of service to others. Here are four popular resolutions with a twist for improving your relationship with nature in 2022 and beyond.
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN REPUBLISHED UNDER A CREATIVE LICENSE WITH THECONVERSATION.COM
EXERCISE MORE CONSIDERATION FOR HOW YOUR ACTIONS IMPACT THE ENVIRONMENT We each have an environmental ethic reflecting how we value, manage and ultimately relate to nature. Balancing the scales of reciprocity between us and nature–how much we give and take–can improve this relationship in many ways. Whether it’s our addiction to one-use plastics that pile up in landfills or fossil fuels that warm the planet, a mishandled relationship with nature is not doing us or the Earth any favors. In 2022, we can all take more responsibility for how our actions exacerbate environmental problems. We can also encourage governments and businesses to make it easier for people from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to protect the environment. This includes making recycled goods affordable and reliable public transportation widely accessible. Check out the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s resources describing some very simple ways to reduce waste at home, work, in our communities and during the holidays. Tips from the website include turning off or unplugging lights during the day, reusing packaging materials and using online billing services instead of paper mail.
LOSE THE WEIGHT OF SOCIAL INJUSTICE –IT HARMS NATURE, TOO The perils of social injustice stress multiple aspects of society. Racism and inequality can lead to health disparities, and they also have consequences for the natural environment. A recent study described how practices such as redlining and residential segregation led to unequal access to nature, excess pollution and biodiversity loss. These practices brought in highways and industries that harm environmental quality in marginalized communities. They also left neighborhoods with fewer parks and trees that provide cooling in summer and benefit the planet. Perpetuating social ills like systemic racism and inequitable resource allocation is detrimental to the environment, marginalized people and society as a whole. To help turn this around, you can speak out in your community. Join groups that are trying to promote environmental protection and social justice and are bringing nature back to communities. Call your city, state and Congressional leaders to urge them to take action. Also, refer to the Green 2.0 report’s section on making diversity initiatives successful for concrete ways that you can actualize this in your place of work.
LEARN SOMETHING NEW ABOUT NATURE AND HOW TO REDUCE HARM TO THE ENVIRONMENT AND YOURSELF Clean air, water and soil are fundamental for our survival, but research shows many people lack basic environmental and health literacy to know how to protect themselves. In 2022, get to know your own impact on the environment. Read more and start exploring ways to preserve the integrity of your area’s natural resources. For example, find out where you can stay abreast of local landuse decisions that impact the environment and your overall community. You can also support local educators and encourage them to bring the environment into lessons. Environmental issues overlap many other subjects, from history to health. This website includes a framework and materials for educators to help students expand their environmental literacy. Staying plugged in with media that discuss the latest research can enhance awareness. You can also try tying environmental facts and knowledge into your game night and team-building activities.
SPEND MORE TIME WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS IN NATURE Studies show that spending time in nature, including urban green spaces, can improve your relationship with nature and with others. Time in nature can increase social cohesion. Throughout the pandemic, many people discovered the outdoors as a place to decompress and reduce stress. Spending more time outdoors can encourage social interactions that benefit health, buffer emotional distress and encourage use of these spaces, which can help protect them for the future. Here are some tools that outline best practices to enhance parks and recreation near you. Also, here are ways to make outdoor environments more inclusive for families in diverse communities. Collectively, thinking about our relationship with nature and finding ways to protect the environment can help us be better stewards of the planet. Viniece Jennings is an assistant professor of Public Health at Agnes Scott College. ONYX MAGAZINE 41
MALOU C. HARRISON, PH.D.
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EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND PROVOST MIAMI DADE COLLEGE Malou C. Harrison, Ph.D., is a respected leader with more than 35 years of transformative leadership experience championing the cause of underserved students in public higher education. She has served in various capacities at the College, including president of multiple campuses and dean of students. Throughout her tenure, she has led the establishment of many high-impact partnership initiatives at the College that have furthered equity, academic excellence, and student success, as well as holistic services. In addition, Harrison has been at the helm of resource development that has garnered substantial funding from a combination of private sources as well as public funders such as the National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Education to support Trio, Title V, and Title III programs as well as numerous educational and undergraduate science research programs aimed at advancing minority student attainment in STEM disciplines. Harrison also a prolific writer on educational issues. In 2019, Harrison authored a chapter titled “Toward Equity: The Immigrant Experience at Miami Dade College” for the book Working Toward an Equitable and Prosperous Future for All: How Community Colleges and Immigrants Are Changing America. She also penned a chapter titled “Community Colleges: Fertile Ground for Black Male Student Success in the book-Engaging African American Males in Community College” (Contemporary perspectives on Access, Equity, and Achievement) in 2018. Harrison serves on several boards, including the National Advisory Board of the Community College Consortium on Immigrant Education, Board of Directors of Thriving Mind of South Florida; Board of Directors of Centro Campesino; and the Board of Directors of the Miami-Dade Urban Debate League. In addition, she has been recognized with the Florida College System's Cameron Hall Practitioner Award for demonstrating high levels of student advocacy and humanitarianism; Educate Tomorrow Founders’ Award for leadership in foster youth college attainment; South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Leadership Award; Miami Dade County's In the Company of Women Award for Education and Research, and the Jamaican Consulate General Community Leader Award.
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If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. –Maya Angelou
DANIELLE A. HENRY, M.D., F.A.C.S.
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SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST ORLANDO HEALTH
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Hard work will pay off; not always at the desired time, but at the right time. –Dr. Danielle Henry
Danielle A. Henry, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a board-certified general surgeon and fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist with the Breast Care Center at Orlando Health Cancer Institute. In her role at the Cancer Institute, Dr. Henry strives to provide compassionate care for women and men with breast diseases. She also values fostering the next generation of medical trainees by educating surgical residents and medical students about the holistic approach to caring for patients with cancer. What is more, Dr. Henry enjoys creating relationships with the next generation of minority physicians by engaging with organizations such as the Minority Association of Pre-Med Students (University of Central Florida), Black Women in Medicine (University of South Florida), ELEVATE Orlando, Charmettes Club of Orlando, and the Society of Scientific Advancement. Nationally, she serves on the Association of Women Surgeons council to engage, empower, and help current and future women surgeons excel. Dr. Henry is a Florida native, born and raised in Florida, who also completed her education and training in Florida. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and then went on to earn her medical degree from Florida State University College of Medicine. She completed a general surgery internship and residency at Orlando Health, where she served as administrative chief resident and won Best Resident Award. She ultimately completed a Society of Surgical Oncology breast surgical oncology fellowship at Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa. While at Moffitt, Dr. Henry received the Junior Scientist Partnership Award for collaboration with the immunology lab to investigate local immunity within breast cancer tissue. In her free time, Dr. Henry enjoys spending time with family, in addition to playing and watching soccer. Dr. Henry first met her husband, Jason, through playing soccer in college at the University of Florida. They later met again in Orlando, a community they both love, where they got married and had a beautiful son named Gordon.
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CYNTHIA JOHNSON, ED.D.
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DIRECTOR PINELLAS COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Dr. Cynthia Johnson is the director of Pinellas County Economic Development. Since 2000, she has been a leader in the organization, serving as division director of Business Assistance from 2001 to 2021, and managing the department’s entrepreneurial and small business assistance and development initiatives. As a trusted advisor to businesses large and small, government agencies, policymakers, and community leaders throughout Florida, Johnson has built her career around economic development's diverse and inclusive interconnected aspects. She advocates for public policies and business practices that promote inclusion and marketplace diversity. As an economic development practitioner, trainer, mentor, and educator, she has supported hundreds of individuals to create, retain, and expand their businesses. Johnson specializes in partner relations, federal and state grants management and compliance, business and strategic planning, entrepreneurial development, finance, and small business innovation. She has more than 20 years of experience in economic development and more than 25 years in training and development. Johnson graduated from Florida Memorial University in Miami with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and holds a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership & Organization from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
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Success isn't about how much money you make; it's about the difference you make in people's lives. –Michelle Obama
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KIMRA MAJOR-MORRIS, ESQ.
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PRINCIPAL MAJOR-MORRIS LAW, LLC
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A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. –Proverbs 18:16
Kimra Major-Morris is a top-rated intellectual property attorney, a nationally published author, the television host of the Telly-Award-winning show “Legal Connections,” in partnership with FAMU College of Law and Orange TV, and an educator on the protection and monetization of intellectual property. Her clients include global brands and creatives, professional athletes, influencers, and victims’ families—sealing the legacies of their loved ones through intellectual property ownership and licenses. Her audiences have included Microsoft Corporation, Facebook Gaming, the Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, collegiate sports programs, and local business leaders. In addition, her articles have been featured by the American Bar Association’s “Landslide” Magazine, “NewsOne,” “Urban Magazine,” The Florida Bar, and VIP Global, to name a few. Her firm, Major-Morris Law, is a Beyoncé/NAACP grant winner recognized for educating and advocating for intellectual property rights in underserved communities. Major-Morris Law is also the 2019 African American Chamber of Commerce Central Florida Eagle Award Winner. Microsoft honored Major-Morris in a virtual museum titled “The Legacy Project Women’s History Edition: Celebrating Women Who Empower Change.” In 2012, Major-Morris was thrust into the national spotlight when the parents of Trayvon Martin retained her to register, protect, and license name, image, and likeness rights for The Trayvon Martin Foundation. Major-Morris earned her Bachelor of Science in Broadcast Communications at Florida International University and is a proud alumnus of Florida A&M College of Law. She made history as the first Black chair of The Florida Bar’s Intellectual Property Committee and has been rated by SuperLawyers® every year since 2015, a distinction held by no more than 5% of attorneys in Florida. In addition, Major-Morris is “AV Preeminent” rated by Martindale-Hubbell® with the highest rating for professional excellence and ethical standards in the legal community and is among the less than 2% of African American attorneys in the country.
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ONYX READS
TRUTH TO POWER BOOKS THAT WILL STRENGTHEN BLACK WOMEN
WHERE THE CHILDREN TAKE US By Zain Asher In “Where the Children Take Us,” Obiajulu’s daughter, Zain E. Asher, tells the story of her mother’s harrowing fight to raise four children as a widowed immigrant in South London. With her relentless support, the children exceed all expectations—becoming a CNN anchor, an Oscar-nominated actor—Asher’s older brother Chiwetel Ejiofor—a medical doctor, and a thriving entrepreneur. The generations-old Nigerian parenting techniques that lead to the family’s salvation were born in the village where Zain’s parents meet with their country on the brink of war. Together, they emigrate to London in the 1970s to escape the violence, but soon confront a different set of challenges in the West.
SHINE BRIGHT By Danyel Smith A weave of biography, criticism, and memoir, “Shine Bright” is Danyel Smith’s intimate history of Black women’s music as the foundational story of American pop: from Phyllis Wheatly to Gladys Knight. Smith has been writing this history for more than five years. But as a music fan, and then as an essayist, editor (Vibe, Billboard), and podcast host (Black Girl Songbook), she has been living this history since she was a latchkey kid listening to “Midnight Train to Georgia” on the family stereo. “Shine Bright” is an overdue paean to musical masters whose true stories and genius have been hidden in plain sight— and the book Danyel Smith was born to write.
WHY NOT YOU? By Ciara and Russell Wilson From Grammy-winning pop star Ciara and Super Bowl champion quarterback Russell Wilson comes a picture book to inspire young readers to see the value in themselves, be brave, and go after their biggest dreams! Sometimes it’s hard to imagine our big dreams coming true. But what if someone saw all the amazing and spectacular parts of us—our winning smiles, our fancy feet, our warm hearts—and asked, “Why not you?”
BLACK ROSES: ODES CELEBRATING POWERFUL BLACK WOMEN By Harold Green, III The poet and founder of the music collective “Flowers for the Living” pays tribute to all Black women by focusing on visionaries and leaders who are making history right now, with this compilation of celebratory odes featuring full-color illustrations by Melissa Koby. To honor how Black women use their minds, talent, passion, and power to transform society, Harold Green began writing love letters in verse which he shared on his Instagram account. Balm for our troubled times, his tributes to visionaries and leaders quickly went viral and became a social media sensation. Now, in this remarkable collection, Green brings together many of these popular odes with never-before-seen works.
EVE By Victor LaValle WHAT WORLD HAVE WE LEFT OUR CHILDREN? When the ice caps melted, most of humanity was lost to the hidden disease that was released. Now, a mysterious girl named Eve has awoken in secret and must deal with a world that’s nothing like the virtual reality she was raised in. To save her father and accompanied only by Wexler, her robotic caretaker and protector sheathed in her favorite teddy bear, Eve must embark on a deadly quest across the country. Along the way, she will have to contend not only with the threats of a very real world that await her, but the lies we tell our children in the name of protecting them. Novelist Victor LaValle delivers a powerful dystopian adventure about the world we leave behind…and the price that must be paid to restore life to a dying planet. FINDING ME By Brenden Slocumb Finding Me is Viola Davis’ story, in her own words, and spans her incredible, inspiring life, from her coming-ofage in Rhode Island to her present day. Hers is a story of overcoming, a true hero’s journey. Deeply personal, brutally honest, and riveting, Finding Me is a timeless and spellbinding memoir that will capture hearts and minds around the globe.
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JO NEWELL
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VICE PRESIDENT OF CORPORATE ENGAGEMENT ORLANDO ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP Jo Newell is the vice president of Corporate Engagement at the Orlando Economic Partnership. The Partnership unifies the community’s strategies to create a more prosperous economy for all. Through the power of collaboration, the Partnership strengthens regional assets and businesses advocate for regional priorities while writing the next chapter of Orlando’s story. Newell joined the Partnership in February 2019 as the Director of Programs and Strategic Initiatives and. In January 2020, she became the first Black woman to lead the Orlando Regional Chamber in its 100+ year history. During this time, Newell and her team focused on strategies to help small businesses move forward and rebuild stronger in the midst of the pandemic. Newell played an instrumental role in the Partnership’s Business Recovery Assistance and Collaborative Engagement (BRACE) program. A communications and case management platform, BRACE provided a free service that helped identify and connect small businesses to the resources they needed most during the unprecedented times of the pandemic. In the fall of 2021, Newell successfully transitioned the work of the Chamber to be fully embedded in the Partnership through programs and engagement opportunities. As a result, the Chamber is now stronger than ever as it operates under the single, overarching Partnership brand. Newell is a steward of the Partnership’s mission of advancing Broad-Based Prosperity™ and launched All Women Empowered (AWE), a program comprised of private, public, and nonprofit partners working to unify community resources into a strategically coordinated campaign to propel women forward. It held its first AWE Impact Forum in August 2021, where attendees could meet and learn about resources available for women in our region. An active leader in her community, Newell served as the first board chair of From Outside In and previously sat on Orange County Government’s MWBE Committee. She currently serves on the Board for United Arts of Central Florida, WholeLife Church, J4 Leaders, and she is the co-chair of the Tech Sassy Girlz fundraising committee.
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It is impossible to live without failing at something unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all—in which case, you fail by default. –J.K. Rowling
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MARIBEL NICHOLSONCHOICE, ESQ.
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SHAREHOLDER GREENBERG TRAURIG, LLP
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Take time to be kind to everyone. (My mom)
Maribel Nicholson-Choice has 28 years of experience in environmental law, representing Fortune 500 companies, resorts, developers, small businesses, local governments, and lenders. She handles environmental permitting, enforcement, litigation, transactional matters, and rule and policy development before federal, state, local officials, agencies, and courts in Florida and throughout the United States. She represents property owners regarding waste cleanup issues before Florida's local, state, and federal regulatory agencies. She represented a property owner in an $82M financing of contaminated commercial properties located in Key West, Fla. Nicholson-Choice represented a plastics manufacturer in environmental matters related to an estimated $2 billion offering of more than14 manufacturing facilities located throughout the United States. She represents real estate companies and property owners engaged in brownfields redevelopment in Florida. She represents clients on issues related to the use of stateowned submerged lands, including leases, easements, and other types of proprietary authorization provided by the Governor and Cabinet. She assists clients statewide and abroad in permitting proposed residential and commercial marina facilities and the expansion and redevelopment of existing facilities. Currently, she represents a hotel owner in an $18M hotel acquisition located in Miami in the issuance of the hotel submerged lands lease. Nicholson-Choice represents residential and commercial marinas located in Miami-Dade to obtain state renewals and modifications to submerged lands leases. She represented several hotels and condominiums located on South Beach and Miami Beach in connection with submerged land leases. She has handled Florida legislation, rulemaking and challenges since 1990. She served as vice-chair of the Florida Environmental Regulatory Commission under the Gov. Jeb Bush and Gov. Lawton Chiles administrations. She is former chair of the Florida Bar's Environmental and Land Use Section. Nicholson-Choice represented local governments as outside counsel in specialized areas. She served as Chair of the Tallahassee-Leon Planning Commission. She represented the Tallahassee City Commission and the Leon County Commission as an intergovernmental agency known as BluePrint 2000 and Beyond. She has been involved in road construction projects implemented by BluePrint 2000 and in the cleanup and redevelopment of the signature Cascades Park Site located in Tallahassee, Fla. ONYX MAGAZINE 49
DESIREE NOISETTE, ESQ.
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FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT MERMOSA WINES Some might call Desiree Noisette a renaissance woman; others may refer to her as a real-life mermaid. Both are true. As the founder of Mermosa Wines, Florida’s first Black woman-owned wine company, she brings a unique blend of intelligence and creativity with a splash of mystery and magic to the brand. Noisette has always had a sharp mind for business and finance, so she pursued an undergraduate degree in accounting from the University of Florida. Then, she went on to study law at the University of North Carolina and began her career as an attorney at a large commercial litigation firm in Tampa. Noisette loved the intellectual aspect of the law, but after practicing law for several years, she decided she didn’t want to argue or think about arguing for a living. Instead, Noisette wanted to do something that made people, especially women, feel good about themselves. That dream became a reality in 2012 when she opened Cerulean Blu, a swim and resort wear boutique in St. Petersburg, Fla. While running her shop, she began creating her own resort wear designs that were sold to retailers across the country. Cerulean Blu had a loyal following of clientele that frequented the shop for its unique, flattering designs and personalized service that included a glass of wine. She enjoyed serving various wines in her boutique, but Noisette wanted a very specific flavor profile that she discovered wasn’t on the market. In 2017, Noisette’s entrepreneurial spirit and determination led her to create Mermosa Wines, a brand that honors her family's legacy of sirens and celebrates everyone’s inner mermaid. The brand welcomes everyone to the party at the beach, on a boat, having brunch, or getting together with friends and family. For more information, visit Mermosa.com.
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“Expect Success” is the family mantra my husband and I created.
TEKOA POUERIE
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SENIOR DIRECTOR, RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT PACE CENTER FOR GIRLS NATIONAL OFFICE
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10% of life is what happens to you, 90% is how you respond to it
Tekoa Pouerie has been passionate about raising awareness of marginalized populations. As a certified implicit/explicit bias trainer, Pouerie has trained more than 10,000 individuals, including judges, trial lawyers, and HR professionals, to recognize and reduce bias when in the workforce. Her extensive track record in bias training and philanthropy has helped improve the legal interactions with youth of color, create better law enforcement officers, position organizations to increase their knowledge of diversity and inclusion, as well provide monetary resources to communities in need. Pouerie has trained and worked with the Department of Juvenile Justice, Governor’s State Advisory Committee, National Criminal Justice Training Center, Department of Children and Families, Florida’s Attorney General Office, Florida Council on Crime, and Delinquency the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. As a result, 92% of those surveyed stated that her training increased their knowledge of racial bias when serving Black communities. In addition, she has recently trained more than 3,000 trial lawyers for the Florida Bar Executive Council on understanding explicit and implicit bias. This training resulted in a new CEU curriculum added to trial lawyers’ classes to promote diversity and inclusion. In addition to her bias training, Pouerie is the senior director of Resource Development at Pace Center for Girls. In her role at this nationally recognized non-profit organization, she is responsible for developing and overseeing the execution of Pace’s regional fundraising and development strategies that assists all 21 centers in the state of Florida. Her fundraising contributions help the center meet its long-term revenue goals to help young girls avoid entering the juvenile justice system. Educating others is only part of Pouerie's unique skills. She understands that monetary resources must be made available to support the cause for change to happen. Her fundraising efforts and development strategies help organizations reach their longterm revenue goals that help change the lives of underserved women, children, and youth.
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OPINION
SUPPORTING BIPOC COMMUNITIES REQUIRES INVESTING IN BIPOC LEADERS BY NWAMAKA AGBO AND LEM WHITE
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deem Black and Brown organizations as “too risky” for investment. Numerous realities bear this out: Only 3% of venture funds go to Black and Latino ventures; 2% of philanthropic funds are invested in racial justice; Black and Brown racial justice nonprofits get 34% less funding than White-led groups; and only a fraction of the $450 billion in philanthropic capital given every year in the U.S. goes to support efforts led by people of color. So where do movement leaders turn? If Black farmers or worker-owned cooperatives need to secure vital capital, they almost always have to rely on small grants from private foundations or the government, both of which require cumbersome paperwork to access. Meanwhile, White-led ventures are resourced boldly, trusted to receive and manage massive capital infusions from philanthropic institutions and impact investors alike, all of whom are operating under assumptions about the needs of the communities that BIPOC continued on page 53
THIS STORY FIRST APPEARED IN YES! MAGAZINE AND HAS BEEN REPUBLISHED WITH PERMISSION.
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new economy is slowly emerging, one where historically marginalized communities have self-determination and where we can build regenerative relationships with our planet and each other. Unsurprisingly, the communities leading this work are those most affected by the challenges of our times. Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) change-makers are at the forefront of these efforts, addressing climate change, systemic racism, and economic inequities by drawing on our communities’ traditions of cooperation, mutual aid, and sustainability. We see this every day. In cities where developers are trying to gentrify Black neighborhoods, Black-led organizations, such as The Guild in Atlanta, East Bay Permanent Real Estate Cooperative in Oakland, and Downtown Crenshaw in Los Angeles, have stepped up to take real estate off the market and maintain community ownership. Black farmers in the South and in urban centers across the country are implementing new farming practices rooted in Afro-Indigenous principles, making agriculture more sustainable and fostering equitable regional food economies. Native groups are winning litigation to assert their rights to reconfigure water management practices in the West. Finally, Black and Brown entrepreneurs are launching worker-owned cooperatives in record numbers, bringing services to neighborhoods abandoned by corporations and disinvested in by the public sector, while building community wealth. Collectively, the new economic models these Black and Brown leaders are pioneering are essential to resetting our relationships with one another and with the planet. Yet, as these alternatives take root, we must support this grassroots-led work to grow and scale, because even though these projects hold incredible promise, existing systems are not designed to support these seemingly unconventional strategies. This is because these leaders are not White, do not come from well-resourced communities, and do not have intergenerational wealth; the barriers they face are rooted in the racism that cuts across all systems and financial sectors, from lending to philanthropy. Without access to financial and nonfinancial resources, Black and Brown movement leaders and social entrepreneurs face substantial roadblocks that prevent them from realizing their vision and expanding their work. What’s needed is a massive focus on unlocking capital for their critical work to grow and scale. Implicit bias and unfounded narratives surrounding communities of color plague the predominantly White financial institutions that unfairly
BIPOC continued from page 52
are incongruent with the realities that Black, Indigenous, and people of color community builders and grassroots organizers see and experience every day. Thus, the actual risk is not only in the lack of investment in their innovative and bold work, but also in the improper allocation of resources that perpetuate cycles of harm in Black and Brown communities. Now, imagine what would be possible if Black and Brown movement leaders had access to the resources supplied to White-led groups. What if, instead of philanthropy and finance operating out of antiquated and racist risk models that are built on the idea that money is scarce, we responded with agility to the work and needs of Black and Brown creators? Often overlooked by elected officials and government leaders, a central goal of the Defund the Police movement is exactly this—shifting municipal funding to proactively invest in the work our communities need. We need elected officials willing to lead with visionary investments of their budgets. We need lenders who are willing to provide both patient and bold capital. We need philanthropic funders willing to give multiyear, seven-, eight-, and nine-figure grants, as well as unlock alternative investment tools. And we need innovative and scalable infrastructure that can support the flow of this new and more creative capital that can bring abundance back to where resources are truly scarce—our communities’ well-being.
Only this kind of sea change will truly catalyze the transformative power of people of color leaders to build an economy where all people and the planet thrive. While there is a growing ecosystem of actors already co-creating new frameworks—such as enterprise capital, trust-based philanthropy, and impact investing that truly has impact at its core rather than focusing on extractive financial gains—there are still trillions of dollars trapped in endowments, donor-advised funds, and investment funds that could be directed to this transformative work. A critical next step will be ensuring that philanthropy and finance, in partnership with the necessary infrastructure, are effectively growing and sustaining the leadership of Black and Indigenous people and all communities of color in building the regenerative economic models that we need, creating the world where all people, especially Black and Brown people and those who have been most impacted by injustice, thrive. Nwamaka Agbo is the CEO of the Kataly Foundation and Managing Director of the Restorative Economies Fund. Lem White (he/they) is the co-CEO of Possibility Labs, a platform for the co-creation of a new economy where everyone—especially BIPOC and historically low-income people—and the planet can thrive.
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M O N E Y M AT T E R S
MONEY MISTAKES YOU DON’T HAVE TO REPEAT SISTER, GET OFF THAT HAMSTER WHEEL AND MAKE YOUR MONEY WORK FOR YOU. BY LAURA DORSEY
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arch is Women’s History Month. This is the annual declared month that highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. There is an analogy that is considered by many to be true: Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it. Those who do not remember their past are condemned to repeat their mistakes. Yet sometimes, even if we know history, we continue to make the same mistakes, and there is no end to the merry-go-round or the hamster wheel. So, for Women’s History Month, we thought that we would take a moment to remind you of women’s history when it comes to money. Your money matters, this Women’s History Month and always. So, take a moment to review the list of issues related to women and money. Then, commit to changing at least one thing on the list to say that you have learned from history and will not repeat it—and that you will help someone else.
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Some of the issues of money for women are well documented: • Women make $0.82 for every dollar a man makes. • Boys make double the allowance that girls make for doing weekly chores. • Women must work 44 more days annually to make as much as their male counterparts. • Only 6 of 111 CEOs at the largest public American financial institutions are women. Now, all is not doom and gloom. We have learned some things from history, and we are working to rectify the issues. For example, did you know that until the 1960s, American women were not allowed to hold a bank account without their husband’s permission? This is a true picture of disadvantage, but we have learned from history, and today women hold bank accounts and even positions at major financial institutions. Unfortunately, the historical
single fathers. (Pew Research Center) • Black women were paid 63% of White men’s wages in 2019. (The American Association of University Women) • 56 % of college students are female, but they hold 65 % of the outstanding national student loan debt. (The American Association of University Women) • Women were 84 % more effective in core leadership competencies, but only 4.9 percent of Fortune 500 CEOs are women. (Harvard Business Review) • 105 of 111 CEOs at the largest public American financial institutions are men. (Deloitte)
inequities and disadvantages of women and money mean that we have a long way to go. First, however, we must start somewhere—and we have. • Madam C.J. Walker was a self-made entrepreneur and arguably the first Black woman millionaire. (HISTORY) • Maggie Lena Walker was the first woman to own a bank in America. (50 Black Enterprise) As much as your money matters, the reality is there is a correlation between your money and your health. The existence of one perpetuates the existence of the other; you decide which comes first. When women have financial stress, it directly relates to health problems like depression and heart disease. We also know that the economic power of women has a direct effect on their families, children, and the community they live in. Let’s take a look at a few more facts. • 22% of American women report they would be unable to afford their lifestyle if they encountered financial difficulties, compared to 13% of men. (S&P Global) • 85% of women control their families’ day-to-day finances, but few control long-term financial planning decisions. (UBS Media) • Three-fourths of women who apply for welfare do so because of a divorce. (Marripedia) • Women are 80% more likely to face financial hardship at age 65 or older. (National Institute on Retirement Security) • 30% of single mothers live below the poverty line, compared to 17% of
But remember this is Women’s History Month, and while your money matters, your voice also does. We are investing in helping to provide financial empowerment for women, providing them with tools to change the trajectory of the history that has stifled women previously. So, if you are wondering what, if anything, you can do to make a difference and ensure that history is not repeating itself, we have researched some activities for you to engage in during this Women’s History Month. Be a Voice: Speak out about your personal endeavors, including fallbacks and accomplishments, to inspire others with similar stories. Create Opportunity: Teach life skills to help disadvantaged women or youth become independent. Offer employment, volunteer, or mentorship opportunities to support advancement within your community and schools. Encourage Support: Encourage young women to support other women by sharing financial knowledge—whether friends, peers or mentors. Explain the Why: Explain how money decisions are made within the family. Doing so shows that decision-making is an equal endeavor. Have Open Conversations: Talk about money openly, including your values, goals, and hardships. By cultivating open conversations, you’ll empower women to build confidence and seek financial literacy regardless of background and upbringing. Donate to the Cause: If you don’t have your own platform, consider donating your time or funds to organizations that help empower females to become independent, join the workforce, or reduce negative outcomes for at-risk children and teens. These are just a few statistics that we found when researching the financial aspect of Women’s History Month. The Women’s Institute for Financial Education (WIFE) and Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER) [You have got to love these acronyms] have many more statistics and even more suggestions. The challenge for this Women’s History Month is to remember that if you do not know your history, you are doomed to repeat it. But, now that you know better, as the old folks say, you should do better. Your MONEY MATTERS, and you can make the change to affect the next generation's history.
Laura Dorsey is the CEO of LLD Consulting, an associate editor of ONYX Magazine and the author of the ONYX Magazine Money Matters series. ONYX MAGAZINE 55
LAINE POWELL, ED.D. FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TECH SASSY GIRLZ
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Laine Powell, Ed.D., is the founder and executive director of Tech Sassy Girlz, a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring underrepresented girls in middle and high school to engage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Taking on the challenge head-on of addressing the notable shortage of girls and women in STEM fields, Powell created the organization in 2012 to address the critical shortage of women and minorities being represented in high-tech STEM careers. She firmly believes that leveraging technology is an opportunity for girls to be content creators and makers. Powell is also the vice president for AceApplications, LLC, a technology solutions provider for businesses, schools, and government agencies. AceApplications delivers custom software, systems integration, mobile app, web development, data analytics, reporting, training, and IT staff augmentation. In 2016, Powell was invited by the White House to present STEM Access for Marginalized Girls. In addition, Powell has been recognized as one of “Orlando Business Journal’s” 2021 Women Who Mean Business, 2021 Orlando Magic Social Justice Game Changer, “Orlando Magazine’s” 2020 Women of the Year, WESH 2 News, and Orlando Magic Community Champion. She received the 2021 WTS International Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award, African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida Eagle Award, i4Business Magazine Spirit of Collaboration award, and University of Central Florida Trailblazer Award. Powell has been featured on PBS, NPR and received a host of other community and professional awards. In the community, Powell is a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the University of Florida Alumni Association. She serves on the boards of Florida Polytechnic University, Florida Network of Youth and Family Services, NAF Information Technology Academy, and the Women’s Business Center at Seminole State College. Powell received a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Florida, a Master of Education from the Pennsylvania State University, a Master of Science in Management from the University of Central Florida, and her doctorate in Instructional Technology and Distance Education from Nova Southeastern University. Powell is married to her college sweetheart, Courtney.
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Success isn’t about how much money you make. It’s about the difference you make in people’s lives! –Forever FLOTUS Michelle Obama
KIMBER SAINT-PREUX CEO AND FOUNDER COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS TRANSPORTATIONS AND STAR NETWORK TRANSPORTATIONS
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Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
Kimber Saint-Preux has years of experience in the transportation industry. She was inspired to create Community Connections Transportations (CCT) and STAR Network Transportations as she watched her parents reach the age at which they could no longer drive a car. She desired to see them treated with love, dignity, and respect by transportation providers but found very few who were up to the task. CCT is a transportation company based in Orlando, Fla., providing contracted programs to institutions, senior communities, assisted living facilities, and medical practices to provide transportation to their residents or patients. STAR Network is a network of independent contractors providing affordable car service who are trained and certified as well as supplied with clients by the network. When Saint-Preux started CCT and STAR Network in 2015, she instilled the same values she wanted for her parents—love, dignity, and respect—in the companies’ service offering from day one. As CEO, Saint-Preux has led CCT and STAR Network through an incredibly difficult COVID-19 pandemic, helping the companies not only survive but emerge stronger and more efficient than before. Milestones she helped the companies achieve include: • Increasing the number of contract drivers with STAR Network by 125% during the pandemic; • Adopting a new health care insurance plan that was more affordable and portable; • Generating a combined (CCT and STAR Network) revenue of $2,588,011.52 with a net profit of 14.5% in 2020. Saint-Preux works closely with the Senior Resource Alliance Center, helping develop grant proposals that could lead to greater funding for older residents who lack transportation to receive essential services. For Cornerstone Church, Saint-Preux leads an online study group for seniors. She also plays a leadership role in the church’s “The Family” initiative. This group provides a safe and friendly setting where members of various races and cultures can explore questions and issues and get honest feedback on the subjects of diversity and inclusion. Saint-Preux attended the University of Central Florida and earned professional certificates in fundraising and grant writing from Rollins College. She lives in Orlando with her husband, Serge, and son, Weston.
–1 Corinthians 13:4-8 NIV
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CHIEF BARBARA TRIPP
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FLORIDA’S FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMAN FIRE CHIEF Chief Barbara Tripp was born and raised in Tampa, Fla., and is Florida’s first African American woman to become fire chief. Tripp also is Tampa’s first female fire chief in the department's 126-year history and the nation’s 13th African American woman to serve as fire chief. Tripp is a 24-year veteran with the City of Tampa and has more than 27 years of experience in the fire service. Tripp began her firefighting career with Hillsborough County Fire Department in 1994. She later transferred to the City of Tampa Fire Rescue Department in August 1997, where her career in public service elevated her to the top. Tripp became a registered nurse (RN) and received “Nurse of the Year” in 2006 and 2008. In November 2020, she was appointed as interim fire chief for Tampa Fire Rescue. Her experience in the medical field has allowed her to develop and implement positive changes as the rescue division chief for Tampa Fire Rescue. Tripp enrolled in Hillsborough Community College, where she completed the Fire Service Academy. She also enrolled at the University of South Florida to pursue a degree in Computer Engineering and became a Florida State certified firefighter. In 1988, she enlisted into the United States Navy and was assigned to Naval Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii. In addition, she received her EMT certification, paramedic certification, Associate of Arts, Associate of Science in Emergency Management, and Associate of Science in Nursing from Hillsborough Community College. She later returned to school and completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from St. Petersburg College in 2012. Tripp is a proud recipient of the Josephine Howard-Stafford Memorial Award. This Memorial Award honors current and former City of Tampa female employees who demonstrate outstanding commitment to their position and community. In her community, Tripp has been actively involved for many years, assisting with feeding the hungry. She sponsors the Rays of Hope Community Outreach, which provides hundreds of book bags, school supplies, out-of-town trips, and bicycles to less fortunate children during Christmas. Tripp is a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Progressive Village. She is a member of the Hospitality Auxiliary and organizes the annual holiday food baskets for more than 100 families. 58 ONYX MAGAZINE
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People may forget what you said, people may forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. –Maya Angelo
VERONICA VALDEZ, ESQ. VICE PRESIDENT MINORITY & SMALL BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP & CAPITAL PROGRAMS ENTERPRISE FLORIDA, INC.
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To whom much is given… much shall be required. –Luke 12:48
As vice president of Minority & Small Business, Entrepreneurship & Capital Programs for Enterprise Florida, Veronica Valdez, Esq., leads the division responsible for the development of minority and small businesses throughout the entire state of Florida. Valdez is committed to bridging the gap for minority and small businesses, tapping into the resources needed to access capital, enter new markets, and create revenue growth and job creation. Additionally, Valdez is responsible for the campaign to educate minority and small businesses throughout the state regarding available resources while targeting new strategic lending partners needed to sustain a continuous capital pipeline. Valdez’s career practicing law serves as the perfect backdrop for her true passion of small business development. This passion is reflected in her previous ownership in JJ Whispers Group and through her tenure as senior partner of the Valdez Law Group, a firm specializing in Small Business Consulting. As an avid small business owner, Valdez understands the factors integral to the growth of any small business. While serving as managing partner of Veronica Valdez Entertainment, she served as a consultant to premier venues in Central Florida regarding event management. As a result, she quickly acquired the tools needed to launch major marketing and promotional campaigns. Understanding the needs of minority and small businesses, Valdez created the 2021 Minority and Small Business Boot Camp. The 11-session webinar designed to equip small businesses with the tools needed for success and growth garnered over 1,800 registrants spanning 15 states and six countries. Valdez is from Miami. She earned a law degree from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. In addition, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Florida. Having served as UF student body vice president and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., president, she was named UF Who’s Who Among American College and University Students and inducted into the UF Hall of Fame. Valdez is a member of Leadership Orlando Class 101. In addition, she serves on the State Advisory Board for the Florida SBDC Network and the Board of Trustees for Saint Mark AME Church in Orlando.
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ANNETTA WILSON PRESIDENT ANNETTA WILSON MEDIA TRAINING & SUCCESS COACHING
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Annetta Wilson is a Certified Mastery Coach, certified trainer and speaker specializing in media training, presentation skills and communication skills for executives, entrepreneurs and subject-matter experts. She coaches individuals on personal and work-related communication issues. She has coached for Goldman Sachs’s Launch with GS Black and Latinx Entrepreneur program and Walt Disney World; and has trained executives at AAA, the City of Orlando, CNN, and the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. Wilson holds the distinction of being Central Florida’s first African American weekday evening news anchor. Her work placed her in the top 20 on the Golden 50 list of broadcasters whose work made a significant impact in Central Florida. The American Heart Association, the Telly Awards, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, and the Community Action Network have honored her work. She was twice named one of 15 Women Who Mean Business by the “Orlando Business Journal.” The African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida also named Wilson a "Phenomenal Woman in Business.” She is a recipient of the Women’s Resource Center of Central Florida Summit Award for community service. Wilson is an inductee in the Hall of Fame of the Central Florida Association of Black Journalists and Broadcasters and has been a guest editorial writer for the Orlando Sentinel newspaper. She is the creator of “You’ve Got Less Than 15 Seconds. Impress Me!” elevator speech system. Wilson is one of 8 coaches featured in the book, "Coaching for Success.” She is also the author/editor of “What If It’s True? Challenge Your Thinking on Stuff Experts Say.” Wilson graduated summa cum laude from Florida A&M University (FAMU) with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. She serves on the Board of Visitors for the School of Journalism and Graphic Communication at FAMU; the Board of Directors for Give Kids the World; the Board of Directors for Heart of Florida United Way. She is a volunteer mentor for the Support Our Scholars program, which provides college scholarships and mentoring for disadvantaged young women. She also is an instructor for the Edyth Bush Institute for Philanthropy and Non-Profit Leadership at Rollins College in Winter Park, Fla.
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We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations. –Charles Swindoll
O N Y X O N T H E M OV E / E N T E R TA I N M E N T
TAMPA MLK PARADE BACK BETTER The Tampa MLK Parade and Gala was back in 2022 and better than ever and ONYX Magazine was a sponsor! The black-tie gala brought together businesses, local government leaders, and supporters from around the Tampa Bay area to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., by honoring local community heroes who have dedicated their lives to service, and awarding scholarships to high school seniors, who will be the service leaders of the future. The 32nd annual MLK Parade attracted an even wider selection of businesses, community organizations, leaders and supporters to celebrate Dr. King's legacy and our city's beautiful diversity with an exciting, family friendly presentation of bands, floats, dance teams and all the things that make a parade special. This year, two of America’s greatest marching bands performed from Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University. The team at the Tampa MLK Parade Foundation appreciates your support and hopes to see everyone again next year!
Foundation VP Howard Harris, Community Heroes Sherri Brown, Mark Jones, Celeste Roberts, representative for Chad Chronister, Foundation President Robert Scott
STUDENTS GET HAND UP FOR COLLEGE The Infinite Scholars Program workshop was amazing in Tampa, Fla., and ONYX Magazine was thrilled to be a part of it. Students from Hillsborough County Public Schools got the best news of their lives—full scholarships to the school of their choice…on the spot, just for having good grades! This was all because is the Infinite Scholars Program. Infinite Scholars hosts forums around the country every year and dole out millions of dollars in scholarships to deserving students. The forums also include financial aid workshops and other educational tips for students. Thanks to our friends at HORUS Construction, ISP VP Laura Dorsey, HORUS VP Lena Graham-Morris and their entire team. Special thanks to USF Supplier Diversity and the USF Marshall Student Center. Laura Dorsey, center, and Lena Graham-Morris, far right in blue dress, surround students who have just been awarded full scholarships to U.S. colleges.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS JAZZ IN THE GARDENS March 11-12, 2022 Miami Gardens www.jazzinthegardens.com APOPKA INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL Saturday, March 19, 2022 The Apopka Amphitheater VIP Seating - $75; Preferred Seating – $55; General Admission – $35 www. apopkainternationaljazzfest.com SOUTH FLORIDA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL Saturday, June 4, 2022 Miramar Regional Park, Miramar www.southfloridasmoothjazzfestival.com
FUNK FEST – FLORIDA June 3-4, 2022 CENTRAL FLORIDA FAIRGROUNDS 4603 W Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL 32808 www.funkfesttour.com NEWTOWN ALIVE! BUS TOURS All Year Long $40 Book at: www.newtownalive.org/book-trolley-tour/ BLACK BUSINESS BUS TOUR Check dates and information at www.blackbusinessbustourflorida.com
SUNFEST April 28 – May 1, 2022 West Palm Beach along the Intercoastal Waterway West Palm Beach Arts and Entertainment District www.sunfest.com ONYX MAGAZINE 61
THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN
IT’S A NEW DAY IN THE BAHAMAS AS A RECORD NUMBER OF WOMEN ROUND OUT PARLIAMENT, GIVING HOPE TO FUTURE FEMALE LEADERS.
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BY D. SHENELL REED
he news swept the globe in victorious fashion—seven women elected to Bahamian Parliament House of Assembly in one general election. Never in the Bahamas had such a feat ever been accomplished. Then, as chants of “a new day” still wafted on the Caribbean breeze, another historic win: two women accepted appointments to simultaneously preside over both Parliamentary chambers for the first time in Bahamian history. Dubbed “the Magnificent Seven,” Hanna-Martin, Englerston; Leslia Miller-Brice, Seabreeze; Lisa Rahming, Marathon; Jobeth Coleby-Davis, Elizabeth; Pia Glover-Rolle, Golden Gates; Patricia Deveaux, Bamboo Town; and Ginger Moxey, Pineridge now serve in parliament with Philip “Brave” Davis’s as prime minister. Sitting member of parliament J. Lashell Adderley accepted the role as senate president and Patricia Deveaux stepped in as speaker of the House. While the victors celebrate these history-altering achievements, they boldly recognize the impending impact their triumph could have on women and girls in their homeland. ONYX Magazine talked one-on-one with Senate President J. Lashell Adderley and House Speaker Patricia Deveaux about what the future of the Bahamas could look like with women at the helm.
ONYX Magazine: With a male-dominated Parliament, what is one issue you think has needed a more balanced approach and how do you plan to address it? Senate President J. Lashell Adderley: Like many countries around the world, violence against women is a critical issue in the Bahamas. In recent months, topics such as marital rape, intimate partner violence, and child abuse have dominated the national conversation. This discourse inevitably leads to one question: how do we put an end to this violence? While targeting a systemic problem requires a multifaceted, multisectoral approach, I believe it must begin with legislation. As president of the Senate, I am committed to ensuring that legislation is passed to help end gender-based violence in the Bahamas.
President J. Lashell Adderley
Patricia Deveaux
Ginger Moxey, Pineridge
Hanna-Martin, Englerston
Jobeth Coleby-Davis, Elizabeth
Leslia Miller-Brice, Seabreeze
Lisa Rahming, Marathon
Pia Glover-Rolle, Golden Gates
House Speaker Patricia Deveaux: Each woman in parliament is playing a major role. I’m extremely proud of them; most are serving in their own ministries. So, one of the things I push for is respect for women. It is important that we have our voices heard— and I thank the prime minister for welcoming our voice at the table in parliament. Overall, this is about us having that higher level of authority. We must fight harder to get respect in a male-dominated presence.
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OM: How will you involve corporate women/small business owners into the decisions you make for your communities? JLA: This relationship is important because the public and private sectors must work together for the betterment of society. My professional background is in the corporate world, and I have seen corporate women run successful companies in all industries. They uniquely understand the challenges women in the Bahamas face in all spheres, and I believe their input is important when addressing matters of state as they too are part of the tapestry of our country. I consult with women of all professional backgrounds when tackling community issues and discuss where and how the private sector can partner with the government to solve these issues in a collaborative way. PD: It’s important to involve any major outlet (grocery store owners, business owners) because we want to make the wealth common. When you spend the money in your community, the money stays there—it stays with the people in that economy. For me, it is also important to involve community because women played major roles in getting me to where I am. I want to thank them. I want them to know that whether they are corporate level or a housewife, they are important. They are a servant to our country. Here I am, the daughter of a housewife and a butcher, but I’m serving at a top level in our country, because women poured into me. Most of the time, women like me don’t make it to frontline politics. But women said, ‘we believe in you and we want to push you from behind.’ So, the first order of the day, I want them to know it’s not how you start, it’s always how you finish. OM: Are there currently any programs you lead to encourage women to step into leadership roles in caring for their own communities? JLA: I would like to create a community leadership program for young adult women across the Bahamian archipelago who are interested in any aspect of community building. The goal will be to have young women commit to establishing and implementing successful community projects (i.e. book club, backyard farming, small business initiative, after school classes, elderly outreach, community forums to discuss and provide solutions to community issues). No doubt this project will provide a heightened sense of community awareness and cohesiveness to strive for greater goals and objectives. PD: I want to create a program for women who gave so much of themselves to their children, but they were never recognized. I want to create a job readiness program for them, partnering with other women to say in life, you never give up on your dreams. I have programs like the Mother’s Pantry and will create other programs that involve women. With all that’s going on—not just the pandemic and all the crises in the world—(another area of concern) in our country is our ability to feed ourselves. So, I’ve identified some government land where I want to do some farming: hydroponic and pig farming. We are going to teach women and children they can make money doing many different (types of farming) and push women to the front and let them lead the charge. It’s our time to shine. I want to push us into many new innovations.
OM: What do/would you say to young girls to encourage them to chart a course to politics or any other high leadership role? How would you explain how critical her presence is in every aspect of community? JLA: I had a fundamental role in raising my sister’s three daughters. I tell young girls the same things I tell my nieces–they are brilliant, capable, and worthy. I tell them that generations of women have broken glass ceilings to get them where they are today and that they are capable of taking the mantle even further. I tell them that their experiences and presences are needed, because we need the voices of women from every background of our society to ensure that we continue to build a country that serves and empowers all. I tell them that imposter syndrome is a liar—they belong in every room they walk in, and to never be afraid to kick down a closed door. I tell them that they are as powerful as their brothers, and that the Bahamas loses when only one gender speaks. We all need to work together, and thus they cannot be afraid to aspire to leadership roles. As president of the senate, I hope that my own presence shows young women that they can achieve anything. And I hope to be of service to them as they plot their own paths forward. PD: Our children are very important to us. We have had challenges over the pandemic—when it hit a country like ours that is so small, it ricocheted over businesses. So, now, as we climb our way out of this hole and try to get to the top, we all have to play a pivotal role. That is why I’m encouraging young people, young women, to find new innovations in our country; and I have to push programs to help them so that our country can be stable. Every time I sit with a woman, young person, I let them know that the sky is the limit. This is your country. Keep pushing. I say it to my daughter every day. OM: How have/would you build a bridge to foster partnership with women in politics in Florida? JLA: The Bahamas has longstanding ties to Florida, and I would welcome the opportunity to foster partnerships with Floridian women in politics. I would want the outcome to be greater representation of Black and minority women in leadership positions. I also want to foster greater ties between the Bahamas and Florida, particularly as it relates to fighting climate change, as both locales are very vulnerable to hurricanes and rising sea levels. PD: I think it’s important for us to connect with other countries, because our kids need that kind of exposure. We send them out all over the world and they need that education. Right now, we have an agricultural team in Dubai learning about their food program there and it going to be a help to us. There’s a big wide world out there full of opportunities, challenges, adventure. We rely on the world to help us with so many things—so we need to have a bridge that connects us, or we wouldn’t make it as country.
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F A M I LY
BOOK CHAMPION
LEARN HOW TO MAKE BOOKS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF EVERY NEIGHBORHOOD.
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eading is a foundation for learning, yet a vast gap exists in access to books for low-income neighborhoods. According to the Handbook of Literacy Research, in low-income neighborhoods, the ratio of books per child is just one age-appropriate book for every 300 children. Without books in the home, children lack the opportunity to practice reading skills and are exposed to fewer opportunities to build their vocabularies. While these limitations can hinder personal performance, multiple studies correlate low literacy rates with social concerns like elevated drop-out rates, reliance on welfare pro-
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grams and criminal activity. Literacy is a cause that affects the community as a whole. Learn how you can champion literacy in your community with these tips:
GIVE BOOKS TO CHILDREN The joy of receiving and opening a gift is exciting in its own right, but a book is a gift that keeps giving. You can make a book gift extra special by choosing a topic or theme that has special meaning, such as a place you would like to visit together or a beloved character you enjoy incorporating into your make-believe playtime with the child. As a bonus, if it is age appropriate, read the book together for the first time so it always carries a special memory.
VISIT THE LIBRARY Libraries can be awe-inspiring places for kids. The wall-to-wall books represent thousands of possibilities. With so many options to choose from, you can introduce children to the delight of discovering different genres, enchanting top-
CREATE READING-INSPIRED TRADITIONS
THIS STORY WAS PROVIDED BY FAMILY FEATURES. PHOTOS COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES
Children thrive on routines and rituals, and incorporating books into special moments can be an especially effective way to establish positive connections with books and the joy of reading. At home, traditions might be as simple as bedtime stories or reading parties where the whole family dons pajamas early and gathers in a room to read together, whether quietly or out loud. You can also tie reading traditions to special celebrations, like reading a favorite story together before heading to bed on the eve of a birthday or holiday. ics and favorite authors who keep you coming back for more. When children have their own library cards, they can practice the grown-up process of checking out and caring for books. What’s more, honoring due dates helps teach responsibility. Marking that date on the calendar is a fun way to build anticipation toward the next visit.
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS THAT PROMOTE LITERACY Conducting your business with companies that share your commitment to literacy is a way to inspire reading on a larger scale. Another example is The UPS Store, which created the Toys for Tots Literacy Program in partnership with the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation to provide disadvantaged children with direct access to books and educational resources that enhance their ability to read and communicate effectively. You can donate at participating locations or contribute online.
PARTICIPATE IN EVENTS SUPPORTING LITERACY Show your support by attending and participating in events that showcase the importance of reading. Examples might include book fairs and fundraisers for literacy programs in your community. You can also look into programs offered through your local library and community center. If you find a shortage of events in your area, consider creating one of your own, such as visiting a local senior living center and reading to residents or hosting a book swap or book club with your friends and neighbors.
ENCOURAGE KIDS TO GET HANDS-ON Reading a book is one way to demonstrate literacy, but kids can also develop a love for reading and put their comprehension skills into practice by adapting their favorite stories for playtime. That might mean acting out a different ending for a favorite story or drawing a picture from a scene they remember best. You can also pro-
mote literacy by encouraging kids to write songs or their own short stories, which they can illustrate for a finished book to share with others.
START A NEIGHBORHOOD LIBRARY Recognizing not all kids have access to books at home, you can help promote an interest in reading by creating a mini library within your neighborhood. Create a small structure that will protect books from the elements and spread the word that the contents are free for the taking. Encourage users to return books when they’re done so another child can enjoy them and invite neighbors to donate their gently used books to help fill your library.
MODEL GOOD READING HABITS FOR KIDS Children learn from the examples set by trusted grown-ups. Sharing your love of reading with a child demonstrates you value learning and education. You can encourage children to mimic your interest in reading by sharing stories about the books you enjoyed most when you were their age and choosing to spend quiet time reading together in place of screen time.
The ONYX Foundation supports literacy. Making a donation to the Foundation is a great way to help combat illiteracy in communities across Florida. Visit www.onyxmagazine.com for more information.
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REBIRTH A R T S & C U LT U R E
SANFORD
TRAYVON MARTIN’S TRAGEDY SPARKED A CULTURAL MOVEMENT
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BY TRINA RYAN
his February marked the 10-year anniversary of Trayvon Martin’s death. On the night of his killing, Martin, a Black high school student from Miami, was leaving a convenience store in Sanford, where his father lived, when a neighborhood watch volunteer, George Zimmerman, spotted him and called the police, saying Martin looked “suspicious.” Zimmerman, then 28, followed Martin and shot him dead after an altercation. Martin had no weapon of any kind; in his pockets were a cigarette lighter, some earphones, a can of Arizona iced tea, a little over $40 in cash and a bag of Skittles. On July 13, 2013, Zimmerman was acquitted on all charges. For those familiar with this motif, the verdict wasn’t a surprise, but a reminder of the deep cultural wounds that have never fully closed. Like many cities in the South, Sanford has a tainted past of racial discrimination and exploitation of Black people. “Trayvon’s death seemed to make us all sit up very straight and pay attention,” says Yvette Comeau Rowe, 61, owner of Maya Books & Music, in downtown Sanford. “It made us focus on how we, as a community, can be better, together.” Where is Sanford a decade later? It’s a place brimming with entrepreneurial spirit and architectural development. It’s a place that has an oldtown vibe—Victorian-style homes, trolleys, brick-lined streets—augmented by the trappings of urban life: farmers markets, live music, ethnic restaurants and craft breweries. It also has the scenic Sanford RiverWalk, which has gone through three phases of expansion, the last completed this past November, and is now the longest shoreline recreational trail in Florida.
A trolley strolls through downtown Sanford.
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“I think it’s a wonderful, progressive community project,” Comeau Rowe says of the RiverWalk. “Everyone can go for a walk. Everyone can go sit on the swings. Everyone can be alone or be with a crowd on a riverfront.” Comeau Rowe, who is a Sanford resident and has owned her business there for 19 years, describes the town as having “the ability to become what all small towns want to be.” “We are the jewel of Central Florida,” says City Manager Norton Bonaparte. “People used to visit Orlando, but they’re now finding that Sanford is a great destination to come and spend a weekend.” As he often likes to say, “Come see us for yourselves.” Though much of Sanford’s revitalization has been in progress well before Trayvon Martin became a household name, residents nonetheless embrace this change as a way to move beyond the shadow of his death. But while
TROLLEY PHOTO BY JAMES GRAY
Trayvon Martin painting at Goldsboro Welcome Center. Artist: Ravin Lawson.
Shantell Williams, owner of Shantell's Just Until restaurant, on her motorcycle.
TOP PHOTO BY MIKE DUNN, GROWING BOLDER; BOTTOM PHOTO BY TRINA RYAN
some see Sanford—whose population has nearly doubled, from 28,000 to 60,000, in the past 20 years—heading in a positive direction, other longtime residents feel left behind. Some would ask, Who is benefiting from this economic prosperity—out-of-towners, people relocating from another city or the residents who have invested their time and money here? Still, one thing is certain: Although Martin’s killing and Zimmerman’s acquittal are a part of Sanford’s history, residents refuse to let these grave injustices become the nation’s lasting impression of their city. “After the Trayvon Martin tragedy, those who were unfamiliar with Sanford came to know us only as the place where Trayvon Martin was killed,” Bonaparte says. “But we know that’s not who we are.”
Williams opened her restaurant in 2011, but she remembers Sanford before Trayvon Martin. She described the city’s neighborhoods as having “invisible walls.” For Black residents to cross those boundaries, she explains, “meant feeling uncomfortable or unwelcome; it meant facing rejection.” But Martin’s death, for better or worse, forced people outside their comfort zone. It was at once an awakening and a reckoning. “There was a side you had to pick, or you had to sit down and listen,” Williams says. “And those who sat down and listened, it changed their lives.” For all the friendships forged and broken in the aftermath of Martin’s death, Williams doesn’t think the work is over. “I don’t feel the city of Sanford revitalized the city for locals,” she says. “It’s for people who are new.” (At the time of this writing, Williams is raffling off her beloved motorcycle to save her restaurant.) Despite her own challenges with getting funding from the city, Williams doesn’t dissuade aspiring business owners; on the contrary, she hosts a themed event every night at her restaurant to give locals a platform for their ideas. Her advice to any Black person hoping to start a business in Sanford: “Let’s do it!”
PRESERVING HISTORY
INSPIRING BLACK ENTREPRENEURS
If one neighborhood encapsulates Sanford’s grit, it’s Goldsboro, the second Florida town incorporated by Black citizens. A quick drive down Historic Goldsboro Boulevard will reveal a stark difference from the fresh facades and novelty shops of downtown Sanford. And there’s a telling history that explains why. In 1911 Goldsboro lost its charter, when Forrest Lake, a powerful Sanford banker and politician, dissolved the charters of both Sanford and Goldsboro, reorganizing Sanford as a city that included Goldsboro within its boundaries. The town sat neglected for nearly a century: abandoned buildings, unpaved roads, rising unemployment.
Walk into Shantell’s Just Until, a soul food restaurant located in downtown Sanford, and you’ll feel the warmth of home, with its cozy seating, smooth jazz playing in the background and, of course, food that tastes like it was cooked with a mother’s love. You’ll certainly get a dose of Southern hospitality from Shantell Williams herself, who is 47 and has 16 children. (Looking at her, you’d swear neither was true.) Not one to shy away from wearing leather and cowboy boots, you’d think the pictures hanging in her restaurant of a Black female motorcyclist are of her. But they aren’t. They’re of Williams’ biggest inspiration, Bessie Stringfield, known as Miami’s “Motorcycle Queen.” Stringfield was the first Black woman to ride solo across the country, delivering wartime messages to U.S. soldiers at a time when Black people weren’t allowed to sleep in hotels or use certain gas stations. In an effort to get Stringfield inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, Williams, at age 40, hit the open road with her motorcycle and set a world record—riding across 48 states in 27 days. “I wanted young Black girls to see someone who looked like them do something they thought impossible,” she says.
Goldsboro Art Square
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Sanford's scenic riverfront
Despite Goldsboro’s painful past, city leaders—such as former District 2 commissioner Velma Williams and civil rights activist Francis Oliver—are committed to preserving this history so that future generations can do better. It is here, next to the Goldsboro Welcome Center, where Trayvon Martin’s memorial resides (people still leave flowers, Arizona beverages and bags of Skittles to pay homage). It is here where residents not only lament the loss of young Black men like Trayvon Martin and Emmett Till, but learn about those whose talent, knowledge and bravery changed the course of history: Zora Neale Hurston, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Frederick Douglass, Muhammad Ali, among others. The people of Goldsboro, a town of over 4,000 residents, came together after Martin’s death, because they knew they had to. Like so many of their ancestors before them, they had to fight back. “I think [the Trayvon Martin tragedy] brought a sense of pride to the community,” says Pasha Baker, CEO of the Goldsboro West Side Community Historical Association. Baker, who is a prominent community activist, local business leader and third-generation Seminole County resident, witnessed the widespread outrage after Martin’s killing. It showed, she explains, that a community must band together to fight systemic oppression. “We acknowledge that we’ve come far, but we still have a long way to go,” she says. “When we hear these stories of unarmed Black people being killed for no reason, it pours salt in an open wound. And those wounds are still open.”
It would take more than listening, however, to restore trust within the Black community. “Before Trayvon Martin, I felt communication between Black residents and the city’s government was heading in a positive direction,” Velma Williams says. “But after his death, we were back to square one—all the anger and raw emotion came to the surface.” The former police chief, Bill Lee, who temporarily stepped down after public criticism over his handling of the Martin shooting, was replaced by Cecil Smith, a former deputy chief of the Elgin, Illinois police. Smith was selected by a committee, appointed by Bonaparte, comprising a diverse group of Sanford residents: religious and civic leaders, African American leaders and members of Sanford’s police command staff. Smith, who is Black, sought to build trust and a rapport with Sanford’s Black residents. He, along with then Commissioner Williams, went into Black neighborhoods, knocked on doors, and introduced himself. He organized other opportunities to interact with residents face-to-face, and attended the Thursday meetings in Goldsboro. He also invested in buying video games, because he wanted his department to connect with Black youth and help them see that a police car does not always mean danger, a threat to their safety. Some of the city’s structural and economic efforts included new infrastructure and housing in Goldsboro; better and safer equipment for local parks; two community centers, one in Goldsboro, and the other named after former mayor Jeff Triplett in Georgetown, another predominately Black neighborhood; and grant programs to assist local businesses. The city also changed some of the street names in Goldsboro, which were renamed after the town was annexed by Sanford, to honor the town’s history and its African American founders. With more projects and developments afoot, Sanford is well on its way to becoming the sought-after destination in Central Florida, a place not only where people want to visit, but where everyone feels welcome. “There are some chapters in our Sanford history that are not so positive, such as the killing of Trayvon Martin,” Bonaparte says. “But those are chapters, they’re not the book. The book of Sanford is a positive one, and we’re hoping to continue that.”
MOVING FORWARD
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Mural in downtown Sanford
Trina Ryan is a freelance writer in Orlando.
PHOTOS BY JAMES GRAY
Indeed, the scars of the past have sowed distrust and created a rift between local government and Sanford’s Black community. If Martin’s death had a silver lining, it was that it presented an opportunity for city officials and Black residents to mend broken relationships. “The city manager and the mayor understood the importance of communicating with the Black community,” says Velma Williams, who served as commissioner of District 2 for 21 years, before retiring in 2019. “They did the most important thing a city official could do in a time of crisis: They listened.” Following Martin’s death, when Sanford was in an uproar about the lack of accountability for George Zimmerman—it took more than a month to issue his arrest—city officials met with the Black community to hear residents’ concerns. These meetings, held on the fourth Thursday of every month at the Dr. Velma H. Williams Westside Community Center, in Goldsboro, continue to this day. “It was a two-way dialogue, something we thought very important, and that was a direct result of the Trayvon Martin tragedy,” Sanford City Manager Norton Bonaparte says.
COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD ORLANDO HEALTH OFFICE OF DIVERSITY & MINORITY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LED BY QUIBULAH GRAHAM, SENIOR DIRECTOR
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Encouraging diversity is a core commitment at Orlando Health. It’s a commitment that is emphasized from the highest levels of leadership, demonstrated throughout our workforce and embodied in our mission and long-term business planning. Diversity is crucial to delivering an enriching experience, enhancing the quality of care we provide and enhancing the workplace atmosphere we create. Orlando Health values inclusion and celebrates differences through awareness, interaction and acceptance of all people. From creating a diverse leadership team to providing language interpretation services, embracing diversity is at the heart of what we do. Orlando Health’s Diversity & Minority Business Development Department serves to support the introduction of diverse vendors to Orlando Health and Healthcare Purchasing Alliance. The supplier diversity program’s main objective is to provide diverse suppliers equal access to business opportunities at Orlando Health and Healthcare Purchasing Alliance. Nearly 100 years ago, Orlando Health made a promise to serve Central Florida as the area’s total healthcare resource. In keeping with that promise and our current strategic vision that puts the patient first in everything we do, we are ever mindful of the importance of diversity and multicultural awareness. It stands as a corporate priority as we continue on our journey of developing a new model of care that will define the future of healthcare. Orlando Health is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values, respects and recognizes the diversity of our community, patients and families, physicians, and team Manager Donna Gilme members. We are proud to embrace diversity in all its forms, including race, ethnicity, culture, gender, gender identity, age, disability, national origin, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and religion
As a leading healthcare provider, Orlando Health is continually striving to incorporate multicultural and diversity awareness into our patient care — making each and every patient experience the best experience possible, each and every time. Central Florida is home to a Health Equity Coordinator diverse cultural population as well as visitors Shannon McElroy from around the world, which is reflected in our patient population. Our Culture and Language Resources Department is a valuable resource for providing culturally competent care for all our patients and guests.
COMMUNITY DIVERSITY
WORKFORCE AND RECRUITMENT DIVERSITY
Orlando Health maintains a rich tradition of serving the community and promoting its cultural diversity. In addition to the many services we provide, including health fairs, screenings and wellness activities, we are proud of our relationship with more than 100 organizations in Central Florida that promote our commitment to cultural diversity and allow us to provide benefits beyond traditional healthcare programs. Orlando Health’s Community Relations Department supports these numerous, diverse community affiliations and outreach programs.
As one of Central Florida’s largest employers, we recognize our responsibility to develop a workforce that reflects the communities in which we serve. From the recruitment and hiring of our physicians and team members, to the identification and recruitment of our Board members, Orlando Health promotes diversity by selecting the most qualified and skilled representatives to meet the needs of our culturally diverse and growing community. We know that by mirroring the diversity of our community, we are better able to relate effectively to our patients and families.
PATIENT DIVERSITY
ONYX MAGAZINE 69
WINE & FOOD
WOMEN & WINE THE NEWER FACE OF SOMMELIERS HAS A FEMININE FLAIR.
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BY STEVEN KING
am frequently asked what wine pairs with what food. This is a complex question as there are no hard and fast rules for food pairing. To simply say red wine for beef and white wine for fish is not a good algorithm for success. Luckily you have a host of professional wine stewards to assist you. When you think of a wine pro a few decades ago, what comes to mind? For me I think of an older gentleman in a suit with a worldly air about him. These days times have changed and more women are choosing the professional wine steward as a career. I experienced a wine emergency a few years ago and contacted a winery in Napa, Calif., for assistance. Let me backtrack a moment and describe my emergency. I was out on a picnic and the stage was set with the wine, cheese and bread.
The problem was that I forgot my corkscrew and civilization was miles away. I was able to acquire a cellphone signal and called out to the winery in California for help. I asked for the resident sommelier and after a brief hold Laurie picked up the phone. I let her know that I needed to get into a bottle of Chardonnay and did not have a wine key. The panic in my voice was obvious. Laurie chuckled and asked what type of shoes I was wearing and if they had a hard bottom. I looked down at my feet and replied that I was wearing hiking boots. Laurie advised me to remove the foil from the top of the bottle and remove a boot. She said to place the bottom of the bottle in the boot where the heel of your foot goes. I was then told to find a tree and tap the bottle in the boot against it. The tapping slowly forced the cork up far
Stephen King is a wine enthusiast, freelance writer and marketer in Orlando.
70 ONYX MAGAZINE
enough for me to grab and remove. The day was saved with this interesting piece of advice from a female wine steward. A sommelier is a wine steward, or a trained and knowledgeable wine professional, typically found in fine restaurants and across the hospitality industry. Sommeliers know which wines a restaurant has both on and off the wine list and can help you find the right wine for your meal. The sommelier profession has historically been a male-dominated industry. The venerable sommelier stereotype of a snooty, balding French guy with a small silver wine tasting cup hanging from a chain around his neck is thankfully long gone. Women are selecting the sommelier profession, reinvigorating the field and smashing old stereotypes.
SHOW HER YOU EMBRACE COMMUNITY AND SHE WILL, TOO.
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