ONYX Magazine January/February 2022

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 1 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

BLACK HISTORY MONTH FOCUS ON HEALTH & WELLNESS Michael Brown, CEO, Travel + Leisure Co.

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CONTENTS 6 Masthead/Publisher

Celebrating 25 years of Black Excellence!

7 Black History

2022 Black History theme focused on health and wellness

8 Black History

Medical pioneers

10 Florida Scope

Information from the sunshine state

12 Travel

North Florida museums

14 Relationships

Black Love

18 Music & Entertainment Razzie – Rebirth

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20 Health & Wellness

Keeping a healthy weight

23 Perspective

Stick to your schedule in the new year

24 Medically Speaking

The nursing shortage hurts patients

26 ONYX on the Move

ONYX in the community

27 The Quad

Stories that impact Black students

28 Education

Why Black male mentors make sense

30 SAGE

Tips to prepare for retirement

31 Workplace

Good company culture

33 Business

How small businesses can attract and retain employees

34 Money Matters

The Great Resignation

36 Personal Finance

Building generational wealth

38 Community

Civic engagement matters

40 Mentors

5000 Role Models stay true to vision

42 King Holiday

Tampa honors community heroes

43 ONYX Reads

New books for new year

45 Environment

Pollution found mostly in minority communities

46 Cover Feature

Travel + Leisure Join Eatonville for Student Success

49 Real Estate

What the numbers look like in 2022

51 Fashion

What to wear this winter

52 Mindfulness

How to take care of your stress

53 ONYX Profile

Fred Hearns

54 Food & Wine

Champagne vs. Sparkling Wine

COVER STORY

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Travel + Leisure Join Eatonville for Student Success

On cover: Michael Brown, the president and CEO of Travel + Leisure Co., welcomes kids back to Hungerford Elementary School in Eatonville with backpacks filled with necessities.

Cover photo courtesy of Travel + Leisure Co.

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Keynote Speaker Dr. Paulette Walker 25th National President Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

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 EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Maria Barnes

RICH BLACK

ASSOCIATE EDITORS Gayle Andrews Laura Dorsey Sharon Fletcher Jones Trina Ryan Nancy Port Schwalb

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 Dear Family, In 1997, Lester and Lillian Seays embarked upon a journey that changed Black Florida one city at a time. First Jacksonville then Orlando—ONYX Magazine became the upscale publication African Americans and those of the African diaspora could count on to deliver trustworthy information that impacts us. Fast forward 25 years later and ONYX Magazine is known across the state—and the nation. As the publisher since 2012, it has been my complete honor to carry this mantle to entertain, inspire and inform.

In our Black History issue, we have kept our commitment to inform as we present a developing program in our cover story. The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation now gives scholarship access to the students of Eatonville—the oldest Black-incorporated municipality in the U.S.—to help them realize their potential. Inspired by ONYX Magazine friend, philanthropist and businessman Harris Rosen’s impact in Orlando’s Tangelo Park (another Black community), the Foundation aims to guide students through their educational goals and professional aspirations. ONYX Magazine is among the first to tell that story.

Also, one inspirational effort is ONYX Magazine’s Women on the Move (WOTM). Since its inception in 2016, we have recognized more than 100 of the Sunshine State’s most impactful and influential Black women.

On Friday, March 18, 2022, we will host the seventh installation of this highly anticipated event. It is a community event you don’t want to miss.

Visit www.onyxwotm.com to learn more.

Finally, as ONYX Magazine continues to entertain, we bring you young rapper Razzie in these pages. A South Florida rapper, Razzie removed his entire catalog of popular rap to return to his Christian roots and produce music that uplifts the Kingdom. and see which music events are upcoming.

Throughout this issue, you will find articles about Black people actively making history; Black Love Day, another way to say ‘I love you’ in February; and why mentorship is so key for Black boys. As always, ONYX Magazine is here to entertain, inspire and inform you with stories that matter. We thank you for supporting us as we celebrate 25 years of Black excellence.

Sincerely,

Rich Black

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DESIGN DIRECTOR Jason Jones GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jon Burton BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Matt deJager CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Martin M. Barillas Percy Lovell Crawford Rayna M. Letourneau Melody Bostic Brown Deron Dalton Tracy Morris Alice Corner Laura Dorsey Chelle Koster Walton Brittany Gatson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS 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

Lester and Lillian Seays 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 THEME

BLACK HISTORY 2022 THE FOUNDERS OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH FOCUS ON BLACK HEALTH AND WELLNESS THIS YEAR REPORT BY THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN LIFE AND HISTORY

T

he Black History theme for 2022 focuses on the importance of Black Health and Wellness. This theme acknowledges the legacy of not only Black scholars and medical practitioners in Western medicine, but also other ways of knowing (e.g., birthworkers, doulas, midwives, naturopaths, herbalists, etc.) throughout the African Diaspora. The 2022 theme considers activities, rituals and initiatives that Black communities have done to be well.

To foster good health and wellness, Black people have embarked on self-determination, mutual aid and social support initiatives to build hospitals, medical and nursing schools (i.e., Meharry Medical College, Howard University College of Medicine, Provident Hospital and Training School, Morehouse School of Medicine, etc.) and community clinics. Clinics were established by individuals, grassroots organizations and mutual aid societies, such as the African Union Society, National Association of Colored Women and Black Panther Party, to provide spaces for Black people to counter the economic and health disparities and discrimination that are found at mainstream institutions.

These disparities and anti-Blackness led to communities developing phrases such as “When White folks catch a cold, Black folks get pneumonia.” Initiatives to help decrease disparities have centered several outcomes, including having more diverse practitioners and representation in all segments of the medical and health programs including such as the Ronald E. McNair Scholars. Even the impact of popular culture texts like Doc McStuffins cannot be dismissed.

The rise of fields, such as Public and Community Health and Health Informatics have led to a rise in preventive care and a focus on body positivity, physical exercise, nutrition, exploring other dietary options such as veganism and vegetarianism, and gardening. Black Health and Wellness not only includes one’s physical body, but also emotional and mental health. At this point in the 21st century, our understanding of Black health and wellness is broader and more nuanced than ever. Social media and podcasts, such as The Read, hosted by Crissle and Kid Fury have normalized talking about mental health and going to therapy as well as initiatives such as Therapy for Black Girls. More of us understand the need to hold down, lift up, center, and fight fiercely for our beloved trans siblings and family. Black girls are doing breathwork, and there are whole yoga studios dedicated to people of color.

Mindful of Sister Audre Lorde’s words, we are doing more to move forward holistically for the betterment of ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, our communities, and our planet.

We are determined to create a platform that shines a light on the multiple facets of Black health and wellness through education and activism.

There is much to uncover, amplify, question, and correct.

In the still overhanging shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, Black people should and do use data and other information-sharing modalities to document, decry, and agitate against the interconnected, intersecting inequalities intentionally baked into systems and structures in the U.S. for

We are determined to create a platform that shines a light on the multiple facets of Black health and wellness through education and activism. There is much to uncover, amplify, question, and correct. no other reason than to curtail, circumscribe, and destroy Black well-being in all forms and Black lives. Moreover, Black communities must look to the past to provide the light for our future, by embracing the rituals, traditions and healing modalities of our ancestors. These ways of knowing require a decolonization of thought and practice.

ONYX MAGAZINE 7

BLACK HISTORY

BLACK HEALTHCARE PIONEERS

BY DON RAUF

This year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), the organization that founded Black History Month, is pressing the importance of health and wellness in Black communities. In unity, “ONYX Magazine” presents these clinicians, researchers, and advocates who have championed and advanced medicine in this country and beyond. They are just a few Black pioneers who have changed the healthcare landscape.

Born into slavery in New York City in 1813, as a young man, James McCune Smith was denied admission to American colleges because he was Black, but he was able to attend the University of Glasgow in Scotland, where he earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and medical degrees by age 24. Dr. Smith had a keen interest in languages, mastering Latin, Greek, and French, and developed a working knowledge of Hebrew, Italian, Spanish, and German. When he returned to New York City in 1837, he established his own medical office and pharmacy at 93 West Broadway—making him the first African American doctor with his own practice in the United States. As a physician, he treated both Black and White patients, and also served as the chief doctor at the New York City Colored Orphan Asylum.

REBECCA LEE CRUMPLER When Rebecca Lee Crumpler graduated from the New England Female Medical College in 1864, she became the first Black female physician in the United States. That same year, she opened a medical practice in Boston. She wrote in her “Book of Medical Discourses,” published in 1883, that she “sought every opportunity to relieve the suffering of others.” The book was one of the first publications about medicine written by an African American.

SOLOMON CARTER FULLER Solomon Carter Fuller’s grandparents were medical missionaries in Liberia, and he grew up with a strong interest in medicine. After earning his medical degree in 1897 from Boston University, he became the first African American psychiatrist. In 1904, he began pioneering work with the psychiatrist and neuropathologist Alois Alzheimer in Germany, studying the traits of dementia. Dr. Fuller was the first to translate much of Alzheimer’s work into English, including research regarding Auguste Deter, the person with the first reported case of the disease. When he returned to the United States, Fuller continued research on Alzheimer’s disease, as well as schizophrenia, depression, and other mental illness. In 1912, he published the first comprehensive review of Alzheimer’s cases.

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JANE COOKE WRIGHT After earning her medical degree, Dr. Jane Cooke Wright worked alongside her father, Dr. Louis Wright, at the Cancer Research Foundation in Harlem, which he established in 1948. Dr. Louis Wright was the first Black doctor appointed to a staff position at a municipal hospital in New York City, and in 1929, the city hired him as police surgeon—the first African American to hold that position. Together, father and daughter researched chemotherapy drugs that led to remissions in patients with leukemia and lymphoma. In 1952, when her father died of tuberculosis, Wright became the head of the Cancer Research Foundation at age 33. She created an innovative technique to test the effect of drugs on cancer cells by using patient tissue rather than laboratory mice. The New York Cancer Society elected Wright as its first woman president in 1971.

Her research helped transform chemotherapy from a last resort to a viable treatment for cancer.

MICHELLE OBAMA As the first Black First Lady (2009–2017) of the United States, Michelle Obama devoted much of her energy to promoting physical health.

She brought attention to the childhood obesity epidemic with her Let’s Move initiative, which encouraged young people to exercise and eat nutritious food. When Obama launched the program in 2010, she said, “The physical and emotional health of an entire generation and the economic health and security of our nation is at stake.” Obama also worked to increase access to healthier food and improve food labeling.

THIS STORY FIRST APPEARED IN HEALTHYLIVING.COM.

JAMES MCCUNE SMITH

FLORIDA SCOPE

ACTIVIST BEVERLYE COLSON NEAL FOUGHT FOR COMMUNITIES Beverlye Colson Neal, 74, of Winter Park, transitioned from labor to reward on Monday, December 13, 2021. Beverlye was born on July 10, 1947 in Jacksonville, Fla., to the late Clarice Colson and Julius Bradwell. She served as an active member of the Orange County Branch NAACP for many years. Most recently she continuously served on the Executive Board as a vice-president for several years. Neal was the executive director at Florida State Conference NAACP state office headquartered in Orlando, and since her arrival locally she faithfully served the Orange County community as a civil rights advocate and consummate civic engagement worker. Dedicating her service to the Black community over the years, she was actively involved as member, officer, and chairperson of many other area organizations including the National Congress of Black Women, Inc., Orange County Black Caucus, Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, and CLAJUL Professional Consultants, Inc. among several others. Neal had a heart of gold and was extremely passionate about helping others and promoting equity, diversity and inclusion for persons from underrepresented and marginalized groups. She lived to serve. She was driven by an abiding commitment to justice, and her work was always grounded in love. She recognized and uplifted the humanity in everyone. Neal has made an everlasting positive impact on Florida’s social justice landscape. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her!

CONGRESS PIONEER CARRIE MEEK HAS DIED Carrie Meek, the grandchild of a slave and a sharecropper's daughter who became one of the first Black Floridians elected to Congress since Reconstruction, died Sunday. She was 95. Meek started her congressional career at an age when many people begin retirement. She was 66 when she easily won the 1992 Democratic congressional primary in her Miami-Dade County district. No Republican opposed her in the general election. On her first day in Congress, Meek reflected that while her grandmother, a slave on a Georgia farm, could never have dreamed of such an accomplishment, her parents told her that anything was possible. "They always said the day would come when we would be recognized for our character," she told The Associated Press in an interview that day.

In Congress, Meek championed affirmative action, economic opportunities for the poor and efforts to bolster democracy in and ease immigration restrictions on Haiti, the birthplace of many of her constituents. She also was known for her liberal opinions, folksy yet powerful oratory and colorful Republican bashing.

STATUE OF MARY MCLEOD-BETHUNE HEADED TO STATUARY HALL U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor helped unveil the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune statue for the first time in Florida and the U.S. since arriving from Italy. The Dr. Bethune statue will soon represent the State of Florida in the United States Capitol’s National Statuary Hall Collection. Dr. Bethune will be the first African American to represent any state in the collection. Dr. Bethune takes the place of an obscure confederate general who has represented Florida in the state collection since 1922 and will be one of only a few women to represent a state in the 100-statue collection. The confederate statue that has represented Florida since the Jim Crow era was removed from the Capitol in the beginning of September. The installation in Statuary Hall is scheduled for February.

FAMU MOURNS SEVENTH PRESIDENT WALTER SMITH, PH.D. Walter L. Smith, Sr. Ph.D., the seventh president of Florida A&M University (FAMU), died in Tampa, Florida, on Thursday, November 25, 2021. The former athlete, scholar, historian, and education leader was 86. FAMU President Emeritus Smith was also the second president of Roxbury Community College in Boston, Mass. Notable achievements during the Smith’s eight-year tenure at FAMU (1977-1985) include the addition of undergraduate and graduate studies; the expansion of the Black Archives; several new and improved facilities, a boost in sports, the expansion of Bragg Memorial Stadium, and reaccreditation of the several professional education programs. “I was saddened to learn of the passing of Florida A&M University’s seventh President and President Emeritus Walter L. Smith, Ph.D. Dr. Smith left an indelible mark as the University’s leader from 1977 to 1985, developing new academic programs and steering FAMU in the right direction,” said Robinson, FAMU’s 12th President. “We’re thankful for his leadership and celebrate his legacy and join the Smith family, friends and Rattlers around the world in celebrating a life dedicated to service and one well-lived.”

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FLORIDA SCOPE

FALLEN OVIEDO HERO AWARDED MEDAL OF HONOR President Joe Biden awarded the Medal of Honor on Thursday to three U.S. soldiers who distinguished themselves by acts of valor while fighting wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Among those honored is a fallen hero from Oviedo. The medal was awarded posthumously to Army Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn Cashe, 35, who suffered fatal injuries in Iraq while rescuing fellow soldiers from a burning vehicle in 2005. Cashe became the first Black U.S. service member to receive the Medal of Honor for actions since Vietnam. He was on patrol near Samarra, Iraq in October 2005 when the Bradley Fighting Vehicle he was commanding was attacked with small arms fire and a roadside bomb that set it flame.

Cashe pulled six fellow soldiers from the burning wreckage and suffered devastating burns himself.

LEGENDARY COACH RUDY HUBBARD TAPPED FOR HALL OF FAME Florida A&M University (FAMU) legendary head football coach Rudy Hubbard was among former coaches and ex-players selected to the 2021 College Football Hall of Fame Class, announced by the National Football Foundation (NFF). Hubbard is among 11 former players and two retired coaches selected to the 2021 College Football Hall of Fame Class. Seventy-eight All-American players and seven coaches from the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) are on the ballot. In addition, 99 All-America players and 33 coaches were nominated from the divisional ranks.

LIFT ORLANDO NAMED FLORIDIAN OF THE YEAR “Florida Trend” magazine named Lift Orlando Floridian of the year for 2021. Lift Orlando works together to accelerate community transformation through neighborhood revitalization. Eddy Moratin, Lift Orlando’s president, says the group has invested more than $100 million in housing, education, health and economic development in the West Lakes neighborhood. About 25%, he says, has come from private donations.

Lift has leveraged those donations through financing instruments, including low-income housing tax credits and new market tax credits. In addition, the group received a $4 million, no-interest loan from Dr. Phillips Charities that enabled it to acquire the Washington Shore apartments in 2015.

ONYX MAGAZINE COMMITTEE CHAIR NAMED TO PRESTIGIOUS BOARD Nancy Port Schwalb, the president of Schwalb PR in Orlando and the chair of ONYX Magazine’s Advisory Committee has been named to the board of directors at the Greater Orlando Sports Commission. The Greater Orlando Sports Commission strategically solicits, creates and supports sports related events and businesses that enhance our community’s economy.

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TR AVE L

HIDDEN GEMS TWO MUSEUMS IN NORTH FLORIDA HOLD THE KEYS TO SOME OF BLACK AMERICA’S MOST TREASURED STORIES

BY CHELLE KOSTER WALTON

EXCELSIOR MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER

A.L. LEWIS MUSEUM AT AMERICAN BEACH (FORMERLY AMERICAN BEACH MUSEUM) American Beach Museum opened its doors on September 6, 2014, bringing the lifelong dream of American Beach’s MaVynee Oshun Betsch, “The Beach Lady,” to fruition. Step inside to experience the culture, stories and heritage of American Beach.

The driving force behind the conception of American Beach was Abraham Lincoln Lewis, one of the original founders in 1901 of Jacksonville, Florida’s Afro-American Life Insurance Company. Lewis was a man with little formal education who became a world traveler, visionary investor, philanthropist, and Florida’s first African American millionaire. The African American resort community of American Beach was established in 1935 in defiance of segregation and the prevailing Jim Crow laws of that era.

When first mapped out, the streets of American Beach were named for the Afro’s founders and their families. Encompassing 216 acres, American Beach became known as “The Negro Ocean Playground”….a place for recreation and relaxation without humiliation.” As the numbers of visitors grew, businesses sprang up providing food, lodging and entertainment.

Performers who appeared at American Beach during its heyday include Duke Ellington and other popular musicians of the ‘40s and ‘50s.

The changes that came with integration signaled the demise of that idyllic moment in time. Initially a summer vacation community attracting visitors from throughout the South, American Beach today has many year‘round residents and visitors from all points of the compass. Now half its original size due to land lost over the years to development, current property owners, preservationists and historians are united to preserve the heritage and the land. The American Beach Museum, through objects, photographs and video documentation, stands as an anchor for those efforts.

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Visitors to the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center can "visit" the office of Frank Butler's store in the "Lincolnville LifeWays" Exhibit.

STORIES PROVIDED BY AMERICAN BEACH MUSEUM AND EXCELSIOR MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER; PHOTOS AND STORY COURTESY OF VISIT FLORIDA

Visitors tour the museum

In 2005, St. Augustine's first black public high school was re-invented as Excelsior Museum and Cultural Center. The museum has evolved yet again and is now the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center. The museum is open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday, and on Saturday by appointments.

The museum features displays and exhibits about St. Augustine's African-American heritage, tracing the history from the beginning, when runaway slaves escaped from Carolina and built Fort Mose, through the Civil War era, the struggle for Civil Rights, and on to modern-day.

African Americans have played a significant role in St. Augustine's history for 450 years. The Lincolnville Museum showcases this rich history, which includes periods when restrictive laws like the "Black Codes" allowed unjust arrests and suppressed civil rights, when black entrepreneurs created a thriving black business district, when black and white activists fought the terrorism of the Ku Klux Klan and, when efforts in St. Augustine—with the support of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Andrew Young, Dr. Robert Hayling, and many more—were instrumental in influencing the passing of the 1964 historic Civil Rights Act. In addition to the exhibits, the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center presents an annual jazz festival series, "Lincolnville Jazz at the Excelsior," and invites various speakers, scholars, and historians to events that are open to the public.

The Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center offers everyone a chance to see St. Augustine through the eyes of the town's African-American community. Learn more about the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center.

R E L AT I O N S H I P S

BLACK LOVE DAY

BY DERON DALTON

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V

alentine’s Day—a European-centric holiday, which packages romance and “I love yous” around Hallmark cards and boxes of Godiva—is not the only celebration Black people are participating in this February. Every year on Feb. 13 is a holiday called Black Love Day. Ayo Handy-Kendi is the founder of the African American Holiday Association, a non-profit that seeks to preserve Black culture through tradition and ritual. Handy-Kendi, who also goes by Mama Ayo, created Black Love Day in 1993 as an alternative holiday for Black people to celebrate and love one another at a time of year when love is already in the air.

Black Love Day has risen to prominence over the course of its 28-year history and in recent years, the holiday has become a popular hashtag affirming many forms of Black love on Twitter and Instagram.

“We encourage people on this day to do something very simple—just demonstrate love for 24 hours, and celebrate and atone, offer forgiveness to ourselves and to others, and to accept the very important tenets—what we call the five Black love tenets,” Handy-Kendi said. The five Black love tenets—which work for both celebrations or on social media are: showing love for the creator; love for themselves; love for their families; love for the Black community; and love for the Black race.

“ The five Black love tenets… showing love for the creator; love for themselves; love for their families; love for the Black community; and love for the Black race.”

Handy-Kendi founded the African American Holiday Association in 1989 following years of community organizing and outreach around African-centered culture and holidays. In January 1993, she saw Spike Lee’s acclaimed biographical drama, “Malcolm X,” and during the bus ride back home and says her creator spoke to her and inspired her to create Black Love Day. “The scene in which Spike Lee shows Black people shooting down my Black brother Malcolm—who is really my hero—it was so graphic,” she said, reminiscing about sitting in the back of a Washington, D.C., bus alone following the screening.

“It touched my soul so deeply,” she continued. “As I thought of this scene and I could see the pain of Sister Betty [Shabazz], and I said it out loud to the creator, ‘What can I do to stop the violence and increase the peace? What can I do?’ I heard the creator say to me that we need more Black love.”

In February 1993, she decided to have a gathering “in the name of Black love”; she celebrated the following year as well, after the death of a son from violence. In the two decades since, Black Love Day has expanded to include events and workshops. Its focus has expanded as well—at one point, Handy-Kendi’s significant other encouraged her to include White people, “to show love in action on Black Love Day,” she said. The inclusivity, she explained, would be “so that we can all heal our relationships; we can all return to love.” This would include, she continued, “White people looking at their White privilege and their attitudes about race.”

Black Love Day has also inspired other festivities around Black love since its creation. For example, artist and We Act Radio co-founder Kymone Freeman established the Black L.U.V. (love, unity, vision) Festival with other artists in 1997. “I met Mama Ayo once I decided the event should be called Black L.U.V. Festival and that I needed the blessing of the founder of Black Love Day,” Freeman said.

Freeman uses another Black love hashtag, #BlackLuvMatters, for the festival, but #BlackLoveMatters is also commonly used.

Freeman believes Black Lives Matter’s growth and popularity made Black love easier for people to digest, which might have sparked #BlackLoveDay’s popularity in 2015. “We’re just embracing ourselves,” he said.

“The Black Lives Matter movement has really promoted the concept of black love,” he continued. “We truly benefited from the activist work that these people have been doing, and you have White people saying ‘Black Lives Matter’ fluently. When we started Black people were uncomfortable saying black love in front of White people. So that’s how far we come culturally.”

“To say ‘Black love’ in a White supremacist system is revolutionary because to a colonized mind, when they hear ‘Black love,’ they translate that to meaning White hate,” Freeman said. “We try to convey that loving ourselves shouldn’t be negated to hating someone else.”

Handy-Kendi said, because “being able to use the technology to expand this holiday will advance it quicker.” Sharing Black love using the various hashtags is one way to celebrate Black Love Day, but another one HandyKendi suggested is to greet Black people with Nya Akoma—meaning “get a heart, take patient,” or have a heart and be patient.

“We need so much Black love,” Handy-Kendi continued. “Not only are police killing us, but we get out and we really raise a flag and we holler ‘Black Lives Matter!’ And Black lives do matter, they matter greatly, but Black lives matter within our own people just as much.” There is too much Black-onBlack crime, hatred and prejudices amongst black people, she said, which is why Black Love Day focuses on increasing the peace.

However, Handy-Kendi acknowledged that statistics about Black-on-Black crime can be used to perpetuate stereotypes and stigmas about Black people.

In fact, White people and other people of color are also more likely to be killed by people within their own race, according to the Department of Justice.

Black people are victims of systemic racism and are not to blame for this self-hatred, Handy-Kendi said. “We were taught a lot that has made it difficult to love ourselves,” she explained.

“People who are hurting often hurt others. So, we have been a hurting people. The fact that we are able to express so much love…is the testament to how loving that we really are on a spiritual level and essential level.”

Deron Dalton is a freelance writer.

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M U S I C & E N T E R TA I N M E N T

REBIRTH CHRISTIAN RAPPER RAZZIE TRANSFORMED HIS LYRICS AND HIS LIFE

BY PERCY LOVELL CRAWFORD

C

oretta Scott King once said, “It doesn’t matter how strong your opinions are. If you don’t use your power for positive change, you are indeed part of the problem.” Those sentiments are now shared by rapper Razzie, who at one-point defied positivity in his lyrics.

Eventually, Razzie found himself in a bind that led him to the church to be saved, and he hasn’t looked back since. His life and his music changed, and he became a Christian rapper, spreading his message in a different tone and context.

Christian rap is genre that has been picking up steam lately, and Razzie hopes the movement continues to spread, especially in his backyard of Broward County, Fla. The change wasn’t easy. Wanting to rid himself completely of his past ways of thinking, he chose to have his entire catalog from his rap past erased forever. Now the urgency to flood his supporters with positive and uplifting music is his primary goal.

Writer Percy Crawford caught up with Razzie to discuss his transition, why losing some friends along the way was a blessing, and about some upcoming projects.

On the song, “Only In Church,” you allude to the fact that you probably wouldn’t be here if you hadn’t found Jesus. What was your life like before you found your calling?

Razzie: It’s crazy. I actually grew up in a very Christian home. It’s easy to have all of those influences and still not really know God. A very strict household. We couldn’t even listen to rap music. We couldn’t do a lot of things.

My mom kept us really sheltered. She had good intentions, but it drove me, my brothers and sisters further from church instead of to church.

After that, I was pretty much trying to get away from it as much as I can.

I’m over here in the streets, I’m out here clubbing, tatted up, running away from the church. It’s crazy how God always brings His children back. I had a crazy experience, and I ran to the church, and I have been saved since. Since then, I have been wanting to show, not only my peers and the younger audience, that you don’t have to be in that world to be cool, to be passionate, to be articulate. You can just be you and who you are in your own skin and still give God glory.

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You started out as a rapper and eventually got rid of your entire catalog as a rapper. Was that difficult to do?

Razzie: In more ways than one. Personally, because I’ve been chasing this music dream for a long time, I took a lot of pride in the things I had out at the time. It was hard for me to let go of those things. But I felt like I had to let go of those things to really go for the Kingdom, instead of me just being in the middle. I had to contract the distributors and everybody that was a part of making it and reach out to those channels and get them to take down those catalogs.

Was it a difficult transition to go from being a regular rapper to becoming a Christian rapper?

Razzie: It was difficult in a way of me trying to convey what I’m trying to say without cursing. You can convey something, and even if you don’t use profanity, just the context of it can be misinterpreted. I didn’t want that to happen. As I kept doing it, it became natural. Now it comes easy, brother. I can do it easily and stay relevant to whatever music is out at the moment.

THIS STORY FIRST APPEARED IN ZENGER NEWS. PHOTOS COURTESY OF RAZZIE

You recently released the “Only In Church” single. Will there be a follow-up to that single?

Razzie: I got a lot of things in the works. So, “Only In Church” just dropped.

The video is already shot, and I will be dropping that soon. Other than that, I have some new releases coming. I’m working with some other Christian artists. I’m excited for those things coming up.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS ZORA! FESTIVAL January 7 – 30, 2022 Eatonville, Fla. www.ZoraFestival.org JAZZ IN THE GARDENS March 11-12, 2022 Miami Gardens www.jazzinthegardens.com

Were you judged when you made the switch and perhaps even lost some friends along the way to your spiritual journey?

Razzie: Ah yeah, man. A lot of people. I have a few close brothers that’s always been like family to me, by blood or not. They stuck with me, but a lot of people I used to be with… I’m a different person now, I’m all Christian, I’m all churchy, so they pretty much backed away. People who aren’t meant to be there aren’t meant to be there. You feel me?

Absolutely! A lot of our youth struggle with handling rejection when they are trying to change as a person. What advice would you give about letting certain people go when they are trying to better themselves?

Razzie: Be true to yourself. We all have an appointment at the end of our life. If we’re blessed to be old, we get to think about all the things that we have done. I want people to be able to look back and see the positive things they have done. I want them to look back and be able to see what they did to help the world and not destroy it.

The same for the people who may talk about you because you changed up. You gotta just shrug it off. There will be many people who talk about you whether you want to be a Christian rapper or a regular rapper. Go to your Father to ask for strength, keep it rockin’. Find genuine people who like you for you and who like what you do.

Percy Lovell Crawford writes feature entertainment stories

How did your parents react when you first started rapping?

Razzie: A lot of my family didn’t like it—except my mom. I ain’t going to lie. Even though my mom used to be strict, I started rapping when I was a little older, early 20s. She was actually really supportive. She wasn’t really supportive of the music itself, but she was supportive of me doing something. But now she supports me a thousand percent (laughing). I talk about faith and Jesus.

What would you like people to take away from your message and your music?

Razzie: I feel like our journey is more than what we say with our words. Sometimes our journey is by our actions. I feel like you can worship God in anything. Of course, I have songs where I talk about Jesus overtly. But I like songs where you can just talk about life. You can make a song about your aspirations and goals and still give glory to God while you do that.

Can we expect an album in 2022?

Razzie: Yeah man! If it’s the Lord’s will, then maybe in 2022, but I will continue to release music back-to-back until I decide I want to do an EP or an album.

Is the most important aspect of what you are doing right now to just be consistent in the studio and carefully continue to filter your music out to the masses?

Razzie: That’s exactly where I’m at. Especially since I took down that catalog, I gotta make up for everything that I took down. I’m working with other artists, and hopefully we can make it a whole movement in the Miami and Broward area.

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 SUNFEST April 28 – May 1, 2022 West Palm Beach along the Intercoastal Waterway West Palm Beach Arts and Entertainment District www.sunfest.com FUNK FEST – FLORIDA May 2022 More details to come 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

ONYX MAGAZINE 19

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

SCALE DOWN

IT’S NOT YOUR SCALE. THESE HABITS HAVE PACKED ON EXTRA POUNDS.

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ou’ve been doing everything right (you think) to drop those pounds, yet the scale isn’t budging. Or worse, it’s tipping in the other direction. Before you throw back your head and wail, “Why am I gaining weight?” and toss the scale and your good intentions off a cliff, consider these subtle reasons you could be adding pounds instead of subtracting them.

UNHEALTHY “HEALTHY” FOODS Oatmeal is good for you. Loaded with antioxidants and fiber, oatmeal’s benefits run the gamut from preventing cancer and diabetes to reducing your risk of heart disease. Even McDonald's includes it on their healthy breakfast menu in some locations. But if you check the nutrition facts on that bowl of oatmeal you picked up at the corner diner, you might find it’s loaded with sugar and butter. And that fruit juice smoothie might be made of full-fat dairy products. Solution: Bring your meals and snacks from home so you can be sure what you’re eating.

MINDLESS NIBBLING “It’s only one cookie,” you say to yourself as you pack your child’s lunch. A handful of jellybeans, 10 Hershey’s kisses (over a three-hour period) and a cheese stick (or four) later, and you’ve nibbled your way to more than 1,000 extra calories—and it’s only Monday! Solution: Keep a food diary for two weeks—and include everything you eat, even that stray cookie—so you can have a true accounting of your caloric intake.

STRESS Back-to-back deadlines and that never-ending home improvement project could drive you to seek comfort in a pint of Ben and Jerry’s and a margarita.

Solution: Resist the temptation. Find another stress-relieving outlet, such as a yoga class or a relaxing bubble bath.

MEDICATION Some prescription medicines can cause weight gain, including antidepressants and birth control pills and those used to treat diabetes and hypertension. This weight gain could be in such small increments that you don’t even notice it until your pants won’t zip. Solution: Talk to your doctor about the side effects of any new medication.

TOO LITTLE SLEEP Several studies show that the less you sleep, the more weight you gain.

Perhaps, the research says, because when you’re tired, you’re less physically active; maybe because you make poor food choices when you’re sleep deprived. Solution: Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night.

20 ONYX MAGAZINE

LONG WEIGHT WHY DO THE POUNDS STICK AROUND? THESE THREE TIPS MIGHT HELP.

BY BRITTANY GATSON

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veryone wants to know the secret to losing weight faster—especially this time of year. While some have found small successes here and there, many are missing the point: which is it does not always work, all the time. Even if something started to work, your body changes and you need to adapt. So how do you lose weight faster? No matter what kind of weight loss plan you’re on, here are three things to consider.

Many diets and dietitians promote mini-meals, but they may not be any better than three square meals a day when it comes to feeling full and satisfied, according to a new study. There have always been a lot of claims that mini-meals are better, but there hasn’t been any scientific evidence to support these claims.

3 MEALS VS. 6 MEALS Twenty-seven overweight or obese men were placed on a reduced-calorie diet in which either 25% or 14% of the calories came from lean protein for 12 weeks.

Men were asked to eat the same diet as three meals or six meals a day for three days starting at week seven, and then they switched to the other eating pattern for three more days.

Men recorded their feelings of hunger or satiety every hour that they were awake during the three or six meal-a-day portion of the study using an electronic device.

Men who ate low-calorie, high-protein diets felt more satisfied and less hungry than those eating a low-calorie, normal protein diet, the study shows those men who ate six mini-meals a day showed no improvement in appetite control or perceived fullness compared to those who ate three meals a day. The findings are likely applicable to overweight or obese women.

Some people such as athletes, recreational runners, and people with digestive disorders and diabetes or prediabetes, however, may benefit from eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day, she says. But eating more frequently is not the best diet strategy to combat obesity.

NO ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL STRATEGY

It’s that feeling of accomplishment that drives the human body to push itself beyond its regular limits.

So be sure to create a staggered set of goals that you can accomplish one by one.

(BONUS TIP) A combination of lean protein and fiber at every meal is best. Meals consisting of a combination of fiber and protein will help keep you feeling full longer because they take the longest time to digest.

They also keep blood sugar levels stabilized and thus prevent drastic spikes and crashes in sugar levels that can ultimately lead to increased hunger, bingeing, and/or making poor choices at mealtimes.

Brittany Gatson is a writer for BlackDoctor.org. This article was republished with permission.

Some people enjoy eating small meals throughout the day, and others don’t have the time and/or don’t care to eat so frequently. The three meals in this study were calorie-controlled, which is what helps weight loss.

It was thought that eating small meals more frequently helps stabilize blood sugar and better controls appetite, but if those frequent meals aren’t appropriately portioned, this won’t work. So, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.

UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS A diet consisting of six meals throughout the day can be unrealistic to maintain considering people’s hectic lifestyles.

When you eat a more substantial meal, you get increased sensory stimulation because you have more food going through your mouth and you’re eating for a longer period of time, both of which help to promote feelings of satisfaction. Because we all know, when you’re not satisfied, you’ll stop.

ONYX MAGAZINE 21

PERSPECTIVE

STICK TO IT HOW TO KEEP YOUR 2022 GOALS ON TRACK

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ticking to a schedule is good for health, wellness and productivity, and the start of a new year is the perfect time to form great habits.

Resolve to adhere to a daily routine with the following tips and tricks:

WRITE IT DOWN The act of writing things down can help reinforce priorities. Keep a list of short- and long-term goals, events and meetings. Be sure to check items off your list as you complete them. Doing so can help you stay motivated.

THIS STORY IS PROVIDED BY STATEPOINT MEDIA

GET A GOOD WATCH Keep yourself accountable with a good watch. The line-up of Edifice watches

by Casio are not only stylish, they contain must-have productivity features, such as multiple alarms, as well as countdown timers displaying the remaining time until the alarm beeps. They also connect with your smartphone and offer cool, sync-up features that help you keep your essentials organized, such as “phone finder.” If you prefer a sportier timepiece, Pro Trek watches offer similar alarm features, along with step counters and sensor technology like altimeters, compasses and more, all of which are great for hikes, fishing expeditions and other outdoor activities.

KEEP IT CONSISTENT Keep both bedtime and the time you awake consistent day-to-day. Doing so can mean better quality slumber so you will be more alert, energized and ready to tackle tasks. Consistent mealtimes can also be beneficial, helping you maintain your energy throughout the day, manage metabolism and avoid hunger.

DON’T OVERDO IT It can be tempting to try to schedule more tasks and to-dos into your day than is actually realistic. Doing so however can leave you feeling constantly stressed, and always in catch-up mode. Be sure your schedule offers you sufficient time to actually complete tasks and travel between appointments.

PRACTICE SELF-CARE Downtime is essential. Whatever self-care looks like to you, be sure to build it into your schedule, whether that means relaxing with a good book, getting together with friends or working out.

Make 2022 the year you finally create and maintain a well-balanced schedule. With wearable tech and smart habits, you’ll be more inclined to stick with the program.

ONYX MAGAZINE 23

NURSING D SHORTAGE THERE ARE NOT ENOUGH NURSE TRAINERS TO GO AROUND.

BY RAYNA M. LETOURNEAU

24 ONYX MAGAZINE

espite a national nursing shortage in the United States, over 80,000 qualified applications were not accepted at U.S. nursing schools in 2020, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

This was due primarily to a shortage of nursing professors and a limited number of clinical placements where nursing students get practical job training. Additional constraints include a shortage of experienced practitioners to provide supervision during clinical training, insufficient classroom space and inadequate financial resources.

Although the 80,000 may not account for students who apply to multiple nursing schools, it clearly suggests that not all qualified students are able to enroll in nursing school.

I am a nurse researcher, professor of nursing and founding director of WIRES, an office at the University of South Florida that focuses on the well-being of the health care workforce. I’ve found that the nursing shortage is a complex issue that involves many factors – but chief among them is the shortage of faculty to train future nurses.

THIS ARTICLE IS REPUBLISHED FROM THE CONVERSATION UNDER A CREATIVE COMMONS LICENSE. READ THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE AT WWW.THECONVERSATION.COM.

M E D I C A L LY S P E A K I N G

GROWING DEMAND FOR NURSES There are not enough new nurses entering the U.S. health care system each year to meet the country’s growing demand. This can have serious consequences for patient safety and quality of care.

Nationally, the number of jobs for registered nurses is projected to increase by 9% between 2020 and 2030.

Some states project an even higher demand for registered nurses because of their population and their needs. Florida, for example, will need to increase its number of registered nurses by 16% over the next decade.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates there will be about 194,500 openings for registered nurses each year over the next decade to meet the demands of the growing population, and also to replace nurses who retire or quit the profession. This means the U.S. will need about 2 million new registered nurses by 2030.

In addition to a shortage of registered nurses, there is also a shortage of nurse practitioners. Nurse practitioner is identified as the second fastest-growing occupation in the next decade, after wind turbine technicians, with a projected increase of 52.2%. Nurse practitioners have an advanced scope of practice compared with registered nurses. They must complete additional clinical hours, earn a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing, and complete additional certifications to work with specific patient populations.

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the health and wellness problems of the nursing workforce. Despite these problems, student enrollment in nursing schools increased in 2020. The pandemic has not turned people away from wanting to pursue a career in nursing. However, without enough nursing faculty and clinical sites, there will not be enough new nurses to meet the health care demands of the nation.

NEED FOR MORE NURSING FACULTY Currently, the national nurse faculty vacancy rate is 6.5%. This is slightly improved from the 2019 rate of 7.2%. More than half of all nursing schools report vacant full-time faculty positions. The highest need is in nursing programs in Western and Southern states.

Nursing education in clinical settings requires smaller student-to-faculty ratios than many other professions in order to maintain the safety of patients, students and faculty members. Regulatory agencies recommend at least one faculty member to no more than 10 students engaged in clinical learning.

The faculty shortage is also affected by the fact that many current nursing faculty members are reaching retirement age. The percentage of fulltime nursing faculty members aged 60 and older increased from roughly 18% in 2006 to nearly 31% in 2015.

Some nursing programs had to turn away students because of a shortage of faculty and clinical sites.

A registered nurse, at right, helps a nursing student prepare a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reports the average ages of doctorally prepared nurse faculty members at the ranks of professor, associate professor and assistant professor were 62.6, 56.9 and 50.9 years, respectively.

Another factor that contributes to the nursing faculty shortage, and the most critical issue related to faculty recruitment, is compensation. The salary of a nurse with an advanced degree is much higher in clinical and private sectors than it is in academia.

According to a survey by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the median salary of a nurse practitioner, across settings and specialties, is $110,000. By contrast, the AACN reported in March 2020 that the average salary for master’s-prepared assistant professors in nursing schools was just under $80,000.

FIXING THE FACULTY SHORTAGE Innovative strategies are needed to address the nursing faculty shortage.

The Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2019 was a start.

The act provides funding for nursing faculty development, scholarships and loan repayment for nurses, and grants for advanced nursing education, nursing diversity initiatives and other priorities.

The Build Back Better Act that passed the U.S. House of Representatives in November 2021 includes funding to help nursing schools across the country recruit and retain diverse nursing faculty and enroll and retain nursing students. The act is now before the U.S. Senate.

In addition to national strategies, individual states are addressing the shortage at the local level. Maryland, for example, awarded over $29 million in grants to 14 higher education institutions with nursing programs in Maryland to expand and increase the number of qualified nurses.

Finally, offering faculty salaries comparable to those in clinical settings may attract more nurses to use their expertise to train and expand the next generation of health care workers.

Rayna M. Letourneau is an assistant professor of Nursing at the University of South Florida.

ONYX MAGAZINE 25

THE QUAD EWU ANNOUNCES NEW DEGREE PROGRAM

Professor Ali, center, surrounded by students.

FAMU BECOMES FIRST HBCU TO RECEIVE AWARD A Florida A&M University (FAMU) professor has received an Air Force Young Investigator Research Program (YIP) Award. The award to Jamel Ali, Ph.D., marks the first YIP award from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) to a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), the agency announced. An assistant professor of chemical and biomedical engineering in the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Ali received the $450,000 three-year grant for his proposal, “Self-assembled Swimmers for Nanoscale Actuation and Sensing,” which is at the intersection of microbiology, fluid mechanics, biophysics, nanotechnology, and robotics. Ali leads the Nanobio Materials and Robotics group, located in the National High Magnetic Field Lab, in Tallahassee. His unit designs small scale biologically-inspired machines – or nanorobots – that can be wirelessly controlled and harness the actuation capabilities of microorganisms.

Ali is one of 36 scientists and engineers from 30 research institutions and businesses who submitted winning research proposals through the Air Force’s Young Investigator Research Program. AFOSR announced $16.2 million in grants on Nov. 5. This year, AFOSR received more than 175 YIP proposals. The objective of the program is to foster creative basic research in science and engineering, enhance early career development of outstanding young investigators, and increase opportunities for the young investigators to recognize the Air Force mission and the related challenges in science and engineering.

FAMU News

Edward Waters University (EWU) received formal notification from its accrediting body, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), authorizing the university to offer a new Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Forensic Science. The university plans to begin enrolling students in this exciting new academic degree program beginning in fall 2022. Traditionally, EWU has offered the B.A. degree program in Criminal Justice (with a concentration in Forensic Investigation) which has held strong interest amongst students and shown consistent enrollment and programmatic growth over the years.

Accordingly, the university’s faculty and administration resolved to develop this new market relevant stand-alone degree program in Forensic Science to further expand EWU’s academic profile and meet student demand while simultaneously supporting future enrollment growth.

The all-new Forensic Science program will train graduates to enter the workforce as criminalists, crime scene investigators, and forensic DNA analysts in crime laboratories at the federal, state, and local levels. “We hope that the onboarding and implementation of this new degree program will enhance the readiness and overall competitiveness of EWU students who wish to pursue career paths in the burgeoning field of forensic science,” said EWU Professor of Forensic Science and Director of the Forensic Science Program, Mr. Ricardo Yanis.

ONYX MAGAZINE 27

E D U C AT I O N

BROTHER TO LI’L BROTHER

Black male mentors provide Black youth with a renewed sense of value that positively impacts their personality and actions.

BLACK MEN AS MENTORS JUST MAKES SENSE

BY TRACY MORRIS

28 ONYX MAGAZINE

for underserved youth is critical. Read on to learn four reasons why Black male mentors are the best choice for young Black boys.

THEY ARE CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE It is established that Black boys often face many challenges growing up, including the failure of key systems that are supposed to help shape their development. Considering that Black boys have a unique set of experiences that often influences their development, it is important that their mentors have also had those experiences, too. To properly address those challenges, they must be acknowledged first. If the mentor does not have firsthand experience as a Black man with these challenges, mentor/mentee relationships can be susceptible to cultural misunderstandings and mistrust. And like all relationships, successful mentorships are based on empathy and trust.

Knowing the current reality of outcomes for Black boys, mentoring programs must be culturally responsive or else they can fall flat for both par-

THIS STORY WAS PRODUCED BY THE BLUE HEART FOUNDATION

W

hy is having good black male mentors so important? Well, representation is everything. Especially for our youth, who are easily impressionable. Representation helps them to expand their mindset and see that they can achieve anything they want in life.

Who some would call the ultimate Black male mentor, former President Barack Obama, is a perfect example. Because of Obama, millions of Black boys across the globe know that they have the potential to be fearless and respected political leaders in this country.

This places a significant importance on mentors, particularly for underserved youth. A mentor is a trusted counselor or guide who provides support in various aspects of the mentee’s development, whether academic or professional. Most importantly, a mentor is someone who emulates and personifies all that our youth aspire to be. For many, a mentor is integral to reaching their goals and their character development. In a position of such influence to the mentee and their community, choosing the right mentor

ties. This starts with knowledge and awareness of the discrimination and systems of oppression that Black men face and is sustained with open discussion throughout the mentorship. When this happens, the mentee can engage in a higher level of thinking with another like-minded adult and they begin to develop healthy attitudes and beliefs about their race.

THEY REINFORCE POSITIVE RACIAL IDENTITY Discussions about race, while not always easy, ultimately results in a stronger racial affiliation and feelings of connectedness within the community.

Underserved youth who once felt alone and misunderstood can now build on the common ground they have with their mentor to boost their own self-worth. Black mentors act as positive influencers who can challenge any negative internalized feelings that underserved youth may have about their own race.

Additionally, research shows that positive racial identity is strongly associated with more academic motivation for African American middle and high school students. When youth can define themselves in terms of their race, they feel a sense of group pride and have a more positive academic performance. While there are many factors that can contribute to the racial identity of under-served youth, having a mentor of the same race provides a direct connection to who they are.

THEY HAVE CRITICAL CONSCIOUSNESS Because they have a common understanding, Black male mentors and Black boys can have real conversations. Talking about the implications of race and socioeconomic status will allow the pair to discover how these issues may affect their everyday lives and develop a critical consciousness.

Critical consciousness is the ability to perceive and understand social, political, and economic oppressions. With critical consciousness, it is possible to deal with these issues and take corrective action that can result in tangible change for our underserved youth.

This empowerment gives young Black boys the capacity to understand their strengths and also have a respect for the perseverance and resilience of their community, which will then help them persevere through the challenges they may face growing up.

THEY HELP ADDRESSES OPPORTUNITY GAPS The unique challenges that young black men may face can cause them to disproportionately experience economic and social disadvantages. This includes over-referral for school disciplinary action and special education as well as obstacles in enrollment and completion of college that can have serious and lasting implications on their future earning potential. However, a mentorship can act as both an intervention and a networking connection to turn those challenges into opportunities.

The consistently supportive nature of the mentorship provides a safe place to work through the concerns and struggles young Black mentees may have in reaching critical milestones in school and interpersonal relationships. Mentorship provides an avenue for the mentor to share their personal and professional knowledge and expertise that can help young Black boys navigate through those milestones and think more broadly about their future. For example, Black professionals have had to develop tools that empower them to be self-sufficient and distinguished workers to succeed in today’s job market. As a Black mentor, they can share these tools and provide invaluable guidance to their mentees.

If underserved youth have the tools to discuss and understand racial and socioeconomic issues, they are able to position themselves to not be conquered by it.

ONYX MAGAZINE 29

SAGE

LIFE: PART 2 TIPS TO PREPARE YOU FOR RETIREMENT

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fter spending years working hard and saving up, retirement is that welcome reward of relaxation, travel, and new hobbies, or even a transition to something new such as consulting or a new business endeavor. While most people can say definitively that they would like to and plan to retire, the issue of when is often less clear.

The ideal age for retiring depends on several things—occupation, health status, financial circumstance, and the state where you reside. While some pension plans allow you to start collecting early retirement benefits as soon as age 55, generally, most people today are opting to retire later.

Nationally, the average retirement age is 64. The decision to retire later can impact several important life decisions. For example, healthcare considerations for someone who retires at 65 versus 55 are quite different.

Below are some points to consider as you gear up to slow down.

COVERAGE SHIFTS Medicare eligibility begins for most individuals around age 65, so if your retirement coincides with that milestone birthday, it is a good idea to learn more about Medicare as well as Medicare-Related Options for those enrolled in Medicare Part A and B. You can find details about enrolling in Medicare for the first time by visiting this informational site for AARP members.

For those not yet eligible for Medicare, and for other considerations not covered by Medicare such as vision, prescription drugs, and dental care, retirement might mean a shift from employer-sponsored insurance to individual insurance. If you had employer-sponsored insurance, your employer did the insurance re-search and provided you with coverage options. Now, as a retiree, you can select the coverage options that align with your health and financial needs.

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS By leading a healthy and active life, many people are living longer, which means that even if you retire later, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy. However, costs are also rising on everything from groceries to gas, making the prospect of living on a fixed income stressful. With a little advance planning, though, it doesn’t have to be.

Prescription medication is common as you age and can be a regular expense. Nearly 90 percent of adults age 65 and older use at least one prescription drug. The good news is that AARP members have access to a free prescription discount card from AARP® Pre-scription Discounts provided

by OptumRx® that can be used to save on FDA-approved medications.

While anyone can enroll, AARP members can unlock deeper dis-counts and benefits such as home delivery, coverage for dependents, and more.

Maintaining a focus on your health now also means you may be able to avoid chronic health issues down the road, and you can con-sider coverage options that cover regular doctor’s visits and exams.

Annual wellness visits, eye exams, and dental visits help you monitor and even potentially pre-vent more serious, and costly, health issues. Most eye conditions can be treated if found early, for example, so you may want to look for health coverage that includes vision benefits. Not only do these 30 ONYX MAGAZINE

benefits include eye exams, but AARP® Vision Discounts provided by EyeMed also provide savings on prescription glasses.

Oral health can also deteriorate with age, and over time, teeth can become more brittle and susceptible to decay, infection, and gum disease.

Dental insurance provides coverage for regular visits and any special procedures or treatments that may arise. And AARP members have access to affordable plan options specifically designed to meet their needs.

RESOURCES When it comes to healthcare, it is important to plan and research to make your retirement years enjoyable ones. Fortunately, there are many tools available to guide you in making decisions that work best for you. AARP members have access to resources that provide detailed information, discounts, and more to ease your healthcare search.

You have worked hard to achieve retirement, so why not enjoy it by taking the necessary steps to ensure continued good health and proper coverage? Check out senior centers and other community resources in your city.

WORKPLACE

GOOD COMPANY CULTURE T

BY ALICE CORNER

here is a movement in America called the Great Resignation—many employees have left corporate America and other workplaces since the inception of COVID-19. But where are they going? Some former employees are still trying to figure it out. However, others have discovered that now is the right time to start their own businesses. If you are among the latter, then you probably know about the basic things you need: a solid business plan and funds.

Once you start to hire employees—if that is your business structure—then there is another critical piece of information you need to have: employees like working in a pleasant environment.

How do you know you are providing a strong company culture? A crucial, and often overlooked, part of building any business is being purposeful about your company culture. Building a good company culture should be in your top priorities when it comes to growing, adjusting, or scaling your business.

But what a good company culture looks like in practice is more difficult to define. Each company has a different culture unique to their employees, industry, and values. And while it is hard to define exactly what constitutes as “good company culture” there are signs you can look out for.

YOUR STAFF TURNOVER IS LOW It is a well-known concept that people do not leave jobs, they leave workplaces. It could be because of a bad manager, a work pace that is impractical for employees, or a lack of respect from management. However, if your staff turnover is low, and when staff leave it is for practical reasons such as relocation or a career change, you can take this as a sign that your company culture is pretty good.

YOUR WORKPLACE IS DIVERSE Creating a company where people from all backgrounds can thrive is a great sign that you are fostering a good company culture. Different experiences breed different. Making sure you are actively creating a diverse workplace is a great way to build a great culture. An inclusive workplace is a good workplace, and it is important to make sure you are prioritizing your diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts as part of your drive to improve company culture.

PEOPLE FEEL EMPOWERED TO TAKE OWNERSHIP OF THEIR JOBS Remember your first job when you were too scared to speak up and say that you did not understand? We have all been there, and it can be nerve-racking to be the newbie—especially if you are early in your career.

But imagine a world where you not only felt empowered to speak up but you were supported in doing so. Creating a good company culture means creating a respectful and supportive environment for people to take full ownership over their jobs, and to do so with pride.

YOUR EMPLOYEES SAY SO Your employees are the people you are building a good company culture for—so why not ask them if you have a good company culture? Doing an anonymous culture survey is a great way to ensure that your culture-building efforts are being felt by your team and that you are picking the right parts of culture to implement. If an anonymous survey is not right for you, you can also consider hosting a town hall or an Ask Me Anything session to create a space for employee feedback. Though you might find, more often than not, if your company culture is not working for your employees, you will hear about it through exit interviews or informal chats.

If you tick all four of these boxes, then congratulations! You have a good company culture. That does not mean your work is done, though. Good company culture should be ever-evolving, and as your team grows and changes your company culture must grow and change, too.

ONYX MAGAZINE 31

BUSINESS

THE RIGHT STUFF HOW SMALL BUSINESSES CAN ATTRACT AND RETAIN EMPLOYEES

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mall business administrators are typically among the most competent multi-taskers, but even the most talented jugglers occasionally end up with too many balls in the air. Attracting and retaining employees doesn’t have to be part of your juggling act; in fact, having the right team can make the rest of your business run smoother.

As a small business administrator, you may wear many hats, such as running the front desk, ordering supplies, managing accounting, onboarding and more. When you have extra hands to allocate the work, your business is likely to be more efficient and productive. Make employee retention a priority for your business with these practices:

ALLOW FOR FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES

CREATE A POSITIVE WORK CULTURE

PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH

When employees enjoy coming to work each day, it shows. Your customers recognize it, and your internal team can feel it, too. A positive work culture encourages excellence, forgives mistakes, and leaves plenty of room for having fun. You can create a positive culture by making sure expectations are clearly defined and giving feedback that is consistent and fair.

PROVIDE AN APPEALING SALARY AND BENEFITS PACKAGE

A competitive salary that aligns with expertise is an obvious edge in hiring top talent. You can become a more attractive employer by offering a benefits package that includes paid time off, insurance and other extras.

Voluntary benefits, such as those provided by Unum and Colonial Life, offer customizable solutions for businesses and their employees. These benefits can provide flexibility to employees by catering to certain stages of life and lifestyles and to employers by offering various funding options like 100% employee-paid or employer-employee shared funding. With low premiums, many small business owners can achieve significant returns and invest in benefits to attract talent and retain loyal employees.

In large part due to the pandemic, employees have learned to juggle their work and home lives like never before. The businesses who recognize this need have an edge, particularly for employees who need flexibility to care for family members. The degree of flexibility you can offer may vary depending on the business model. Communicating with your employees and working to make reasonable accommodations can go a long way toward attracting strong candidates and retaining current employees.

Employees typically look for opportunities to learn and grow through additional responsibility, compensation and rewards for performance that encourage long-term commitment. Working with employees to understand their career goals is an important step on a path for growth that is mutually beneficial.

Find more solutions to help small businesses at Unum.com and ColonialLife.com or download The Essential Small Business Benefits Guide to learn how to add voluntary benefits to reduce total benefits costs.

Help Small Businesses Grow

STORY PROVIDED BY FAMILY FEATURES. PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

CHOOSE TO SHOP LOCAL AND SMALL

Small businesses are ingrained in many local communities. When you choose to purchase from a small business, you’re directly supporting neighbors, friends and the people in your community. This support isn’t taken for granted by entrepreneurs–it can make a big difference for small business staff.

GIFT LOCAL

Keep the impact that your support could have on local community businesses in mind when shopping for gifts, whether they’re for loved ones near or far. For locals, a gift card to a nearby business keeps your money local. When gifting those who live farther away, purchase a thoughtful gift and packaging locally then shipping it.

HELP SPREAD THE WORD

Small businesses don’t usually have the means to invest in big marketing programs, so referrals and word of mouth can make a major difference.

However, in today’s world, a great deal of consumer research happens online. That means you can be most helpful by taking your stories of great service and quality products to the internet, too.

HELP FILL OPEN POSITIONS

The job market has shifted noticeably over the past year, and local businesses have been struggling to find the talent they need to continue to serve their communities. Since these business owners are looking for employees to help fill some of the uptick in demand, you can help by tapping into your own network and recommending people for different positions you see.

BE MINDFUL OF BUSINESS CHALLENGES

Finding a work-life balance can be difficult for small business owners even in non-pandemic times because they wear so many hats within their businesses, from CEO and salesperson to human resources and everything in between. Take an understanding approach and work with local businesses to make sure they know they are supported by their community.

CHECK IN ON WHAT’S NEW

Just as you’ve changed your consumer habits and needs, small businesses have adapted in dozens of ways. For example, your favorite yoga studio may offer streaming classes or a favorite breakfast cafe you haven’t visited in a while might have an all-new menu. Take time to stop in and learn how your favorite businesses are changing.

ONYX MAGAZINE 33

M O N E Y M AT T E R S

THE GREAT RESIGNATION IN YOUR DECISION TO BID FAREWELL TO YOUR JOB, YOUR MONEY MATTERS.

BY LAURA DORSEY

T

here is an old saying; Numbers Don’t Lie; there is truth in the numbers. And for this new year, 2022, the numbers speak for themselves. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that more than 4 million people quit their jobs in the last quarter of 2021. Economists are calling this the Great Resignation. Florida is feeling the impact also. These same numbers show that 264,000 people voluntarily quit their jobs in Florida. And do not think that you can add to any one reason for the quit rate because they span every generation and come from every industry. According to the “Washington Post,” some always were planning to leave, and this past year just made them realize they were no longer willing to wait. Others were burned out from too many long hours, late nights, and unspent vacation days. If the pandemic did nothing else, it made people reassess their priorities. They realized that life would not wait. Game over in 2021/Game on in 2022!

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This mass exodus is happening for many reasons. People are reevaluating their lives and their careers. If a company will not give its employees space to grow and with opportunities for promotion, they cannot expect the talent to remain within the company or even that division. Many people want other career elements such as more flexible working hours and choices. Others want mentorship programs, and most want reward systems compensatory to their output. The “Washington Post” reported, the biggest reason is that the pandemic provided employees with a taste of improved work-life balance because they could work remotely. Giving that up is not an option. Many point to their mental health. This was a critical insight when asking people why they would reassign. Today's employees are mission-driven, and that mission does not always include the company culture of the good old days. Employers should not make the mistake of confusing loyalty and contentment. Many people are considering leaving their job within the next year, and 25% are already looking. Whatever the reason, here are a few suggestions from those that have followed this path.

WHAT IS YOUR WHY? C.L. Thomas is a federal government employee. Thomas has been in his current position for more than 30 years. One day, he realized that he was unhappy or burned out within his career field. When he asked himself WHY he acknowledged that he could not pinpoint why. He was well paid; however, he could not shake the negative feeling. Recently, Thomas heard the U.S. surgeon general speak about the mental health challenges of young athletes. Thomas was only two classes from another degree in mental health counseling. After a discussion with his family, he opted to fast-track his desired path, and he put in the paperwork to resign from his position with the government. His advice for anyone thinking of following in his footsteps is to ensure that your finances are in order. To ensure that this passion project would not put an undue burden on his family, he knew that they had to be debt-free. They could adjust their finances to pay off all their debt and be comfortable living on his retirement. He recommends that this decision is not an individual one, but this new venture will be much easier to go into with the support of the people who care about your well-being.

“Try to be debt-free,” is his advice.

IT’S MY TURN Y. Johnson can’t tell you the exact day that she decided to quit her job (working for a nonprofit, which paid her a six-figure salary) to pursue her dream of being a full-time entrepreneur. Although there are many ways to make this transition, she decided on the slower, more thoughtful approach, which would maximize her chance of success, both professionally and financially. Johnson had been running her business on the side for more

than a few years. When the idea came to run the business full time, she put extra effort into the business plan, trademarks, and bank accounts.

At the same time, she knew that she had to have savings to cover more than the 3-6 months of basic living expenses suggested. Her goal was to have 12-18 months, which would be enough to sustain her if the business were not as successful as she expected. More importantly, her advice is to be prepared mentally for the lifestyle and emotions of entrepreneurship.

Johnson’s advice: “Do not be afraid to fail.” Her philosophy is that if all else fails and this venture does not prove to be successful, she is not afraid to go and look for another job. The going joke is that she can always get a job at Target!

CAN YOU PAY YOURSELF? Sharon Lyles is the CEO of the Central Florida Diaper Bank. The organization is more than 20 years old.

After much thought, Lyles decided to retire early from her position with the State of Florida and run the organization full time. When interviewed, she had these tips to offer ONYX readers who were considering a similar step: • Can you realistically financially afford to be full- Lyles time at your nonprofit? Is the nonprofit making enough to pay you a salary?

• Your organization will live and die by how well you learn how to market your idea to potential donors, board members, community leaders, and volunteers. As a small nonprofit executive director, Lyles says that you have one job: raise awareness and money for your organization—nothing else matters.

Words matter, but whether you use adios, farewell, sayonara, or goodbye does not matter. Unfortunately, workers are using these words to their employers in drones, and that trend is expected to extend into 2022 and possibly beyond, according to experts. Despite this historic rise in people quitting, causing the Great Resignation, you should not decide to join this unemployed workforce lightly.

Remember that it is YOUR CHOICE, but YOUR MONEY MATTERS in your decision.

Laura Dorsey, is the CEO of LLD Consulting, an associate editor of ONYX Magazine and author of the ONYX Magazine Money Matters series.

ONYX MAGAZINE 35

B L A C K W E A LT H

BUILDING GENERATIONAL WEALTH IT STARTS WITH JUST A FEW SIMPLE STEPS

SET FINANCIAL GOALS To improve your financial health, start by setting short-term, mid-term and long-term financial S.M.A.R.T. (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time bound) goals. S.M.A.R.T. goal setting can help you be more specific, provide a way to measure your progress, allow you to create a plan to make things more achievable, ensure your goals are in line with other objectives and provide deadlines, so your financial goals don’t get lost in the shuffle of day-to-day life.

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CREATE A MONEY PLAN A money plan is a guide that details how you want to use your income monthly. This plan should consider the money you want to save and the money you want to spend. As you add your list of expenses, use this opportunity to review where your money is going and if your spending is in line with the financial goals you’ve set. This is also an opportunity to look for ways to reduce or eliminate spending so your money can be used for things that are important to you, like saving for a down payment on a car or home, or purchasing an item from your wish list.

EXPAND YOUR FINANCIAL KNOWLEDGE Explore ways to become more comfortable with money and take control of your financial future. Your relationship with money and how you feel about it make up your money story. Money stories involve emotions, beliefs and experiences with money from childhood to adulthood. Start by spending 10-20 minutes each day exploring topics around money or personal finances to help build your knowledge base. You can do this by listening to podcasts, reading books, browsing reputable personal finance websites or exploring financial education resources provided by your financial institution.

If you need a more personalized approach to developing a better relationship with your finances, explore working with a financial coach. Your financial coach can work with you on a range of fundamental money management skills. For example, a financial coach can help you overcome financial anxiety or come up with a debt repayment strategy. The coach can help guide, teach, empower and challenge you to grow into a savvy money user.

When determining your financial health, remember personal finance is personal. The financial decisions you make today impact your overall financial health. Determine what financial success looks like for you and incorporate mindfulness, resources and other financially beneficial strategies to help improve your relationship with your finances.

THIS STORY IS PROVIDED BY FAMILY FEATURES. PHOTOS COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

Y

our financial health is just as important as your physical and mental health. Money affects almost every aspect of your life and can be the determining factor in many of your day-to-day decisions.

Being financially healthy isn’t just about how much money you have in the bank. It also encompasses your financial capability and how you feel about money or how money makes you feel.

Start by doing a self-check to determine your financial health. Look at where your accounts currently stand, including the statuses and balances.

The balances in your accounts can be used to calculate your net worth, which is a numerical indicator of your overall financial health from an accounting standpoint.

Also consider your feelings and relationship with money, including the emotions you experience when someone brings up topics involving money. Then determine if you are a saver or spender. Understanding how you feel about your finances and why you have these feelings can help you improve your overall financial health along with these tips from the financial experts at kinly, a financial services company helping Black America build generational wealth.

COMMUNITY

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT MATTERS N

ew research reveals that not only has America’s largest generation—millennials—become more civically engaged since the pandemic began, but that the time is right for nonprofits and companies to help all Americans see how profoundly they can influence social change.

The new survey from Points of Light, a nonpartisan, global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world, conducted by INFLUENCE|SG, found that almost 50% of millennials believe in the power of civic engagement more now than before the pandemic, 69% are more likely to volunteer and 85% think people should help their community and the world. Millennials also believe companies should be actively involved in social issues and two-thirds visit corporate websites at least somewhat often to learn about their efforts.

Tapping into the report’s findings can help businesses and nonprofits seeking to prioritize purpose more effectively work with customers and supporters to move the needle on critical issues facing communities today.

Here are the three key takeaways for businesses and nonprofits:

GET PERSONAL

Respondents said that the top issues the country must address post-pandemic are healthcare (29%), criminal and social justice (24%), education (21%), environment/climate (21%) and financial recovery efforts from COVID19 (17%.) When it comes to issues of widespread importance, entities seeking to be drivers of change can and should meet the public where they are.

DISCOVER WAYS TO TAKE ACTION Civic action can take on many forms, from signing a petition to participating in a rally, to reaching out to one’s political representatives. Not sure where to start? Consider “the Civic Circle,” which is a framework developed

by Points of Light to define the many ways people and entities can lead, lend support and take action for causes.

The nine activities outlined by the Civic Circle are: listening and learning, using one’s voice, social entrepreneurship, volunteering, public, national or military service, using one’s purchasing power to express their values, working, voting and donating.

“More than almost any other civic action, respondents today are devoting time to increasing their knowledge about social issues. In other words, they are preparing themselves to be fluent consumers of the information causes and companies intend to share,” says Paquin. “This gives companies opportunities to become vital, trusted sources of information.”

“By partnering with them on addressing the issues that matter to them most, nonprofits and businesses can play a vital role in keeping this generation’s attitudes of empathy, interest and willingness to fix society’s ills thriving,” says Paquin.

STATE POINT MEDIA

In many ways, millennials were the hardest hit by the uncertainty of the pandemic. Those with children suddenly had to teach them at home; some had parents and grandparents who were getting sick and even dying. It’s no surprise that the social issues millennials care about today have gotten personal.

“What we learned from our research is that personal experience is driving the civic issues millennials care about and will act to support, as well as their own desire to make a positive difference in the world,” says Natalye Paquin, president and CEO of Points of Light. “Rather than asking millennials to help you reach a goal, consider asking them what they need and how you can work alongside each other to have the biggest impact.”

ADDRESS WHAT’S IMPORTANT

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MENTORS

MAINTAINING EXCELLENCE

Since the start of the pandemic, the 5000 Role Models of Excellence have not missed a beat. The program offered online training in etiquette and financial stability, and virtual field trips. The Mentors practiced social distancing with appearances at Dolphin Stadium and learned how to apply for college and financial aid. The 5000 held its annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., breakfast virtually and distributed food to those in need.

THE 5000 ROLE MODELS OF EXCELLENCE STILL STRONG 28 YEARS LATER

W

hile serving on the School Board of Miami-Dade County, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson noticed a pattern of young minority boys either being incarcerated, entering the drug trade, or dropping out of school. Not willing to sit back and allow society and poverty to destroy the lives of our children, Wilson began to challenge the men of Miami-Dade County to intervene in the lives of “at-risk” youth.

Thus, in March 1993, initiated by the School Board of Miami-Dade County, the 500 African American Male Role Models of Excellence was born. Wilson’s vision gained immediate response from the community and continues to serve as a major force in the transition of raising young boys to become men. In 1994, the name was changed to the 500 Role Models of Excellence Project. Given the increased enrollment of mentors and students it is now recognized as the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project.

Adult Role Model men are trained to salvage “at-risk” youth, who are considered candidates for society’s endangered species list. Young males ages 9-19 are paired with successful professional adult volunteers, who provide advice, guidance and educational assistance.

The 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project is a dropout prevention, mentoring program committed to closing the minority male achievement (access) gap by guiding minority male students along a carefully charted path through grades K-12 and college or ensuring the attainment of other post-secondary credentials, and increasing their employability in higher wage, high skills jobs within high demand industries.

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VISION Each minority male student will graduate from high school, go to college, vocational school or the military and be positioned to become a contributing and self-sustaining member of society.

GOALS Our goals are designed to ensure that the youth of Miami-Dade County are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experiences that will able them to thrive in mainstream America, while instilling in them self-confidence and self-respect.

Goal #1: Place at-risk boys in supportive relationships with positive and successful men in the community who they can emulate.

Goal #2: Systematically educate program participants about the consequences of succumbing to societal pitfalls and expose them to positive alternatives to self-destructive behaviors.

Goal #3: Provide a program infrastructure that will empower adult community Role Models to assume responsibility for preparing young men to effectively deal with the challenges and struggles that threaten their success.

PHILOSOPHY "It takes an entire village to 'educate' one child”. – adapted from an African Proverb We believe the entire community must be involved in the process of changing the direction of our youth.

Report from the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Program

ONYX ON THE MOVE CHOCOLATE NUTCRACKER COMES TO LIFE ON STAGE

Rich Black, second from left, along with his family; Orange County School Board Member Vickie Felder, center; and U.S. Congresswoman Frederica Wilson, along with her family, attended the event.

Orlando Community Arts, Inc., (OCA), returned to the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Walt Disney Theater, Saturday, November 27, 2021, to present “Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker,” with Title Sponsor Orlando Health. More than 2,500 people attended the performance with ONYX Magazine as of the many sponsors. The production of "Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker" is to E.T.A. Hoffmann's "The Nutcracker" what "The Wiz" is to "The Wizard of Oz," an urban adaptation of a classic.

What is amazing about this performance is that many of the performers/cast are local community youth who have never had professional training, however, through their God-given abilities and the support of OCA, they have produced a performance that rivals any Broadway show. "Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker" has become an anticipated holiday performance for children of all ages. Executive producer and Author of Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker Beverly Page works tirelessly to bring the story of Clare and her mystical dreams to life. Throughout the year, OCA works with creative students in programs that help build self-esteem, artistic creation and healthy curiosity—and give them a special bond that unites them forever. OCA embodies a developmental approach to arts education that considers the physical, emotional, and artistic interest and capabilities of all children. Page creates each Clare and Chocolate Nutcracker dolls for the community. She and her husband, Mayor Ernest Page, have hosted this event since 2012.

Photos by Brion Price

KIDZ HAVE A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS! Christmas in City of Orlando’s Parramore Kidz Zone & Holden Heights Kidz Zone was a huge success! Thanks to the PKZ/ HHKZ staff, partners, and many others, the program was able to provide 400 plus children and organizations our zones support with a little bit of the Holiday spirit. Children received gifts, bikes, food, crafts, music from a live DJ, and were able to participate in many more holiday activities! A big thank you goes to the following sponsors and supporters: Regina Hill District 5 Commissioner, District 6 Commissioner: Bakari

Bikes and jerseys were among the kids’ favorite things this year.

Beverly Page, with microphone, is the play’s executive director and story author.

F. Burns, Orlando City Foundation, Orlando Magic, African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, Wheelzy, Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, Autograph Collection, House of Sweat Orlando, AshBritt Environmental, Hope for More Foundation, My Designer Homes, Daughters of Zion, ONYX Magazine, Nike, City of Orlando Economic Development, Orlando Police Department and IBERIABANK! Photo courtesy of City of Orlando

One young man got in the holiday spirit with face painting.

Orlando City Commissioner Bakari Burns, District 6, second from left, with City of Orlando Children and Education Manager Brenda March, second from right, with representatives from Sponsor Wheezly.

ONYX MAGAZINE 41

SERVICE

COMMUNITY HEROES HONORED

The Dr. Martin Luther King Parade Foundation was formed in the year 2014 to expand, improve and strengthen efforts to make the City of Tampa’s Martin Luther King Day Parade an event the city could be proud of year after year—carrying on a 33-year tradition. Each year, the Parade Foundation sets aside some portion of the proceeds from fees and donations to provide scholarships to a diverse set of deserving high school students. The Foundation also recognizes community leaders who go beyond the call to make Hillsborough County better. This year, ONYX Magazine is a sponsor of the event. The 2022 Community Honorees are: SHERRI BROWN Sherri T. Brown is the vice-president of Multicultural Sales & Development with Visit Tampa Bay. Sherri has been in the Hospitality Industry for 36 years. Sherri displays courage, selflessness, humility, patience and caring in all organizations in which she serves. Sherri’s success over the past 12 years has successfully made a strong impact at Visit Tampa Bay with an instrumental role in bringing the largest events, conventions, and meetings to Tampa. In 2019 she was award ONYX Magazine’s Women on the Move award. She is involved with her community and an Honorary Past Imperial Commandress (HPIC) of Harram Court No.96 Daughters, an auxiliary of the AEAONMS; in Leadership Tampa Class of 2022; Women in Tourism; and the National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners, and on the board of directors of Cristo Rey High School, and MLK Foundation Parade.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SHERIFF CHAD CHRONISTER A veteran law enforcement officer, Sheriff Chad Chronister has served with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office for the past 28 years. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy's 260th Session. He became the top law enforcement officer in Hillsborough County on September 30, 2017, upon his appointment by Governor Rick Scott, was elected by the citizens of Hillsborough County on November 6, 2018, and overwhelmingly re-elected on November 3, 2020. He is Co-Chairman of the Regional Domestic Security Task Force for Region IV Tampa Bay, Council Member of the Florida Attorney General’s Statewide Council on Human Trafficking and Chairman of the Criminal Justice Sub-Committee, Vice-Chairman of the Hillsborough County Public Safety Coordinating Council, and Vice-Chairman of Hillsborough County Public Schools Citizen Oversight Committee.

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DR. MARK T. JONES Dr. Mark T. Jones Sr. is the senior leader and founder of Manifestations Worldwide, Inc., Dr. Jones was born again in 1992, called and licensed to the gospel ministry in 1994, ordained as a church Elder in 1997, and consecrated as an Apostle in 2004. Dr. Jones was directed of the Lord to establish a church, and the first service was held on July 15, 2001.

Dr. Jones has been in upper-level management for over 32 years, and teaches leaders how to live debt-free, and to operate debt-free corporations. Armed with an anointing to destroy the spirit of religion, to break the vice of traditionalism, and determined to make a difference in the lives of people, Dr. Jones launched “The Center for Manifestation” and the local outreach of the church, Manifestation City.

Manifestation City is a sprawling operations campus currently comprised 14 buildings serving educational, housing, spiritual, and social service needs in the community.

CELESTE ROBERTS Celeste Roberts is the president and executive director of The Skills Center, a nonprofit organization she co-founded with partners Chris Ward and John Arroyo in 2007. The sport-based youth development & education non-profit organization intentionally utilizes the power of sports to create change through academic success, life skills, and mentoring for youth ages 3 to 18. Roberts is eager to help young people learn how to transfer lessons learned through athletics to everyday life—just as she learned by participating in high school sports.

Roberts is scaling the organization and spearheading a $13M+ development facility project to create equity in education, health and job training for young people in Tampa. Roberts has received the Tampa Bay Lightning Community Hero Award and was recognized as Tampa Organization of Black Affairs (TOBA) Martin Luther King Jr.’s Unsung Hero, and Bay News 9’s Everyday Hero.

ONYX READS

NEW YEAR, NEW READS BOOKS WE ANTICIPATE IN 2022

WHAT THE FIREFLIES KNEW

By Kai Harris After her father dies of an overdose and the debts incurred from his addiction cause the loss of the family home in Detroit, almost-eleven-year-old Kenyatta Bernice (KB) and her teenage sister, Nia, are sent by their overwhelmed mother to live with their estranged grandfather in Lansing. Over the course of a single, sweltering summer, KB attempts to get her bearings in a world that has turned upside down: with family and friends keeping secrets.

Pinballing between resentment, abandonment, and loneliness, KB is forced to carve out a different identity for herself and find her own voice. As she examines the jagged pieces of her recently shattered world, she learns that while some truths cut deep, a new life—and a new KB—can be built from the shards.

YONDER

By Jabari Asim They call themselves the Stolen. Their owners call them captives. They are taught their captors’ tongues and their beliefs but they have a language and rituals all their own. In a world that would be allegorical if it weren’t saturated in harsh truths, Cato and William meet at Placid Hall, a plantation in an unspecified part of the American South. Subject to the whims of their tyrannical and eccentric captor, Cannonball Greene, they never know what harm may befall them: inhumane physical toil in the plantation’s quarry by day, a beating by night, or the sale of a loved one at any moment. It’s that cruel practice—the wanton destruction of love, the belief that Black people aren’t even capable of loving—that hurts the most.

NONE BUT THE RIGHTEOUS

By Chantal James “None But the Righteous” is a southern gothic fever dream, a voodoo-laced journey through the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Set adrift when the storm ravages his hometown of New Orleans, 19-year-old Ham struggles to find himself. He’s in limbo on a Greyhound somewhere between the Atlanta home of a childhood friend he’s idolized and the rural Alabama home of the young woman he met—the mother of his child—as they scrambled to find shelter.

Ham navigates his new circumstances under the influence of a saint whose relic was given to him by his foster mother when he was very young. He seeks the answer to a question he cannot face: did his foster mother survive? Soon, Ham catches sight of a freedom he’s never known–and he must reclaim his body and mind from the spirit who watches over him, guides him, and seizes possession of him.

THE VIOLIN CONSPIRACY

By Brenden Slocumb Ray McMillian loves playing the violin more than anything, and nothing will stop him from pursuing his dream of becoming a professional musician. Not his mother, who thinks he should get a real job, not the fact that he can't afford a high-caliber violin, not the racism inherent in the classical music world. And when he makes the startling discovery that his great-grandfather's fiddle is actually a priceless Stradivarius, his star begins to rise. Then with the international Tchaikovsky Competition—the Olympics of classical music—fast approaching, his prized family heirloom is stolen.

Ray is determined to get it back. But now his family and the descendants of the man who once enslaved Ray's great-grandfather are each claiming that the violin belongs to them. With the odds stacked against him and the pressure mounting, will Ray ever see his beloved violin again?

PAGE TURNER CELL TO SUCCESS

By Chance Boyd Florida author Chance L. Boyd gives readers an intense glimpse into his life with the release of his debut book, “Cell To Success: A Journey of True Liberation.” The action-packed, page turner offers 62 chapters of vivid imagery and addictive story telling right out of the gate. The readers follow Chance’s life as a child, discrete criminal, eventual prisoner and finally what he describes as a success. While Chance understands the consequences of his actions, he doesn’t regret them. “Potential wasn’t keeping my mama’s heat on, my hustle was” he said. Chance was the man of the house and ultimately succumbed to the pressures of society.

ONYX MAGAZINE 43

ENVIRONMENT

SEEKING CLEAN AIR DESPITE IMPROVEMENTS, DISPARATE EFFECTS OF POLLUTION REMAIN IN MINORITY COMMUNITIES.

BY MARTIN M. BARILLAS

D

espite the general improvement in air pollution in the United States since 1990, racial and ethnic minorities remain more likely to be exposed to six major air pollutants than White Americans, according to a new study.

Air pollution has been linked to cancer, heart disease and cognitive decline, with varying effects depending on the source of the pollution.

Researchers at the University of Washington investigated exposure to those air pollutants by looking at census data collected in 1990, 2000 and 2010. When they examined people’s racial and ethnic background, income and place of residence, they found that not everyone is equally exposed to poor quality air.

Even though overall air pollution levels have dropped, the study points out that regardless of income, people of color are more likely to be exposed to dangerous air pollution. “This is the first time anyone has looked comprehensively at all these main pollutants and watched how they vary over time and space,” said Julian Marshal of the University of Washington, who co-authored the study published in Environmental Health Perspectives.

Marshall said that while every community is unique, there are factors that crop up repeatedly in the United States. Going state by state, there’s no place where there are not any environmental justice concerns, he said.

In previous work, Marshall and fellow researchers had shown by researching U.S. census data for 2000 and 2010 that Americans of color faced higher concentrations of noxious nitrogen dioxide gas (NO2), which is produced by vehicles fueled by gasoline and diesel.

For the most recent study, the team investigated ozone (O3), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and carbon monoxide (CO), as well as particulate matter such as dust, pollen and that produced by vehicles. The team also included data from 1990, which was when the Clean Air Act was amended to address air pollution and emissions.

“There have been so many improvements,” said study co-author Jiawen Liu. “But we still see these disparities persist, even after two decades.”

The team incorporated multiple data sources, such as satellites and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) monitoring stations. The figures were compared in relation to demographic groups tagged by the U.S. Census Bureau—Asian, Black, Hispanic and White—in order to estimate the level of pollution exposure for each group in all the U.S. states and Washington, D.C.

To calculate absolute disparities, the team subtracted pollution exposures for each group from the average exposure for the state in question.

Relative disparities were calculated when they divided absolute disparity by the average exposure across the United States.

“Relative disparities allow us to compare across pollutants,” Liu said. By dividing by the average, “it gives you a basis for how big or small that exposure disparity is.”

While disparities were different according to the location, across all the pollutants and the years covered, racial and ethnic minorities showed the highest levels of exposure. Despite a general improvement in air quality, the disparity was still there in 2010.

Liu cautioned that the data may not be good at getting a snapshot of unusual pollution events in some places. “We’re trying to catch people’s attention and show what is happening now. We hope this information will motivate change,” Liu said.

Researcher Marshall said scientists should document racial and ethnic disparities in air pollution exposure. “These communities have been saying this message for a long time. And it’s important to bring humility to our research,” he said.

One example of delayed environmental justice was finally put to rest in 2018 after 26 years in Flint, Michigan. In 1992, Catholic priest Phil Schmitter filed a federal discrimination case over concerns that Michigan’s Department of Environmental Quality and the EPA had disregarded the dangers posed by a biomass incinerator and wood-burning power plant spewing toxic lead, arsenic and other pollutants next to a school and into the air in his neighborhood, whose residents were largely black and low-income.

The longest-running environmental discrimination case in U.S. history came to an end on Jan. 19, 2017—the final day President Barack Obama was in office—when the EPA closed its probe into the complaint, having judged that the local Black community had been treated unfavorably.

Martin S. Barillas is a writer for Zenger News where this story first appeared.

ONYX MAGAZINE 45

PARTNERSHIP TRAVEL + LEISURE JOIN EATONVILLE FOR STUDENT SUCCESS

BY MELODY BOSTIC BROWN

Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation board member Melody Bostic Brown highlights the official kick off of the Eatonville Scholarship Program during Orange County Public School's First Day of School press conference at Hungerford Elementary School.

I

t was a humid day in August at Hungerford Elementary in Eatonville, Fla. The sweltering temperatures were no match for the electric energy of the school’s teachers, community leaders and employees of Travel + Leisure Co. Students smiled brightly as they walked across a red carpet lined with colorful balloons. Some kids were a little more subdued—it was the first day of school, after all. Once inside their classrooms, an unexpected surprise turned those smiles and scattered frowns to cheers!

When the Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation launched in the summer of 2021, its focus was intentional: make a difference in the communities where people vacation as well as where they live. The nonprofit is beginning to fulfill that mission in the town of Eatonville, the oldest and one of the most influential Black-incorporated municipalities in the country.

Now, Eatonville students have access to the Foundation’s scholarship program and educational resources to help them realize their potential.

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LAYING THE GROUNDWORK The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation is the vision of Travel + Leisure Co., the world's leading membership and leisure travel company with nearly 20 lifestyle vacation brands.

Headquartered in Orlando, its team was inspired by the work of philanthropist Harris Rosen, whose dedication helped transform the city’s Tangelo Park neighborhood. Thirty years ago, that area’s elementary school was centered in an underserved and drug-stricken community. Today, it has a grade-A rating.

“As the work of Harris Rosen has demonstrated, real change is possible when corporations work hand in hand with local communities to engage citizens in programs driven by a shared purpose. Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation’s partnership with Eatonville and Orange County Public Schools is focused on empowering the next generation of students to accomplish their academic and professional goals,” said Michael Brown, president and CEO of Travel + Leisure Co.

Michael Brown, president and CEO at Travel + Leisure Co., celebrates the first day of school with Hungerford Elementary principal, Letecia Harris, and Eatonville Mayor, Eddie Cole.

The significance of Eatonville is unmistakable. Nestled about 30 minutes from the pandemonium of Orlando’s theme parks, Eatonville was incorporated in the late 1800s and quickly became a sanctuary for African Americans through self-government and economic development. Following the Reconstruction period, the town invested in educational opportunities for Black families, with teachings modeled after the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. Eatonville was pivotal in the literary world thanks to Zora Neale Hurston, the Harlem Renaissance author who vividly captured its essence in her novel “Their Eyes Were Watching God,” noting the dignity and complexities of Black life. The ZORA! Festival, named after the writer, draws thousands of people to the area each year.

Education and culture are at the heart of the Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation. One of the nonprofit’s first endeavors took place at Hungerford Elementary at the start of the 2021-2022 school year. As kids skipped across the freshly polished floors to meet their teachers on the first day, they were quickly greeted with the sight of brand-new backpacks.

The Foundation donated 350 book bags—one for every student in kindergarten through fifth grade—filled with pencils, folders and other essentials to kick off the year. Students highfived and fist-bumped one another as some parents became overwhelmed with emotion, grateful that the potential obstacle of purchasing school supplies was gone, and that their children would remain focused on the most important thing: their education.

“Orange County Public Schools believes that with the support of families and the community, we can create enriching and diverse pathways that lead our students to success. We are fortunate to have incredible community partners that invest in the success of our students,” said Orange County Public Schools Superintendent Barbara Jenkins.

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE The Foundation’s emphasis on education isn’t limited to elementary students in Eatonville, but also high schoolers pre-

paring for their next phase. The Travel + Leisure Eatonville Scholarship Program provides financial support for students who live in the town, previously attended Hungerford Elementary School, and graduate from Edgewater, Evans, and Wekiva high schools. Students receive scholarships toward tuition or other costs, such as books or housing. The intent behind the scholarship is to ensure that students avoid any financial interruptions to their postsecondary education.

Michael Brown, president and CEO of Travel + Leisure Co., welcomes students for their first day of school at Hungerford Elementary School in Orange County. The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation donated 350 backpacks filled with school supplies to every child at Hungerford to help set them up for success this school year.

ONYX MAGAZINE 47

Michael Brown, president and CEO at Travel + Leisure Co., celebrates the signing of Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation’s Eatonville Scholarship with representatives from the Orange County School Board, Orange County Public Schools and Eatonville Elementary.

"The Travel + Leisure Eatonville Scholarship Program will allow well-deserving children in our community the opportunity to attend public college or vocational school in Florida, without financial barriers,” said Eatonville Mayor Eddie Cole.

“This will add educational resources to the Town of Eatonville, and children who participate in this program will be able to fulfill their dreams without facing financial challenges. We are so honored to be a recipient of this program.”

The Foundation collaborates with guidance counselors at each of the three high schools to identify eligible recipients.

Thirteen high school students qualified for this year’s scholarships. The program can fund up to 200 scholarships per year, and the Foundation is continuing to identify additional students who may qualify for the program. The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation has a six-member board of directors, all employed by Travel + Leisure Co., responsible for helping the nonprofit realize its mission, including the scholarship program. The board members, who advocate and volunteer their time to a number of community initiatives, are: Chief Human Resources Officer Kimberly Marshall, Vice President of Process Management and Improvement Simmon Reed, Senior Vice President of Human Resources Marla Tichi, Vice President of Global Supplier Diversity Jose Nido, Global Content Director Melody Bostic Brown, and Destinations Sales Manager Crystian Alatorre. The board also oversees the Foundation’s community engagement efforts throughout Eatonville.

PLANNING FOR EXPANSION Education is often noted as the cornerstone of great neighborhoods. Many who live in Eatonville—including its leader, the exuberant Mayor Cole—would likely say the town already

Michael Brown, president and CEO at Travel + Leisure Co., announces Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation’s Eatonville Scholarship at a press conference, alongside Harris Rosen, Eatonville Mayor, Eddie Cole, and superintendent for Orange County Public Schools, Barbara Jenkins.

exudes greatness, but that it is augmented through community and corporate partnerships that invest time and resources in the area. The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation has plans to expand its reach in Eatonville with endeavors that include the town’s Chamber of Commerce, Boys and Girls Club, as well as mentoring opportunities for families who live there.

While the mission of Travel + Leisure Co. is to put the world on vacation, the motivation behind the Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation is to partner with its communities to have an enduring and meaningful impact. If you’d like to learn more about the Foundation, contact charitablefoundation@travelandleisure.com.

Melody Bostic Brown is a member of the Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation Board of Directors. She is also the Global Content Director for Travel + Leisure Co. — leading the voice of its brands across marketing and editorial touchpoints.

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R E A L E S TAT E

UP OR DOWN IN 2022 WHAT WILL HOUSING PRICES DO IN THE NEW YEAR?

I

f you’re thinking of buying a home in today’s housing market, you may be wondering how strong your investment will be. You might be asking yourself: if I buy a home now, will it lose value? Or will it continue to appreciate going forward? The good news is, according to the experts, home prices are not projected to decline. Here’s why.

With buyers still outweighing sellers, home prices are forecast to continue climbing in 2022, just at a slower or more moderate pace. Why the continued increase? It’s the simple law of supply and demand. When there are fewer items on the market than there are buyers, the competition for that item makes prices naturally rise.

And while the number of homes for sale today is expected to improve with more sellers getting ready to list their houses this winter, we’re certainly not out of the inventory woods yet. Thus, the projections show continued appreciation, but at a more moderate rate than what we’ve seen over the past year. None of the major experts are projecting depreciation in 2022. They’re all showing an increase in home prices next year.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE HOUSING MARKET? While home price appreciation is expected to continue, it isn’t projected to be the record-breaking 18 to almost 20% increase the market saw over the past 12 months. Overall, it’s important to note that price increases won’t be as monumental as they were in 2021 – but they certainly won’t decline anytime soon.

WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR YOU? With motivated buyers in the market and so few homes available to purchase, the imbalance of supply and demand will continue to put upward pressure on home prices in 2022. And when home price appreciation is in the forecast, that’s a clear indication your investment in homeownership is a sound one.

BOTTOM LINE It’s important to know that home prices are not projected to decline in the new year. Instead, they’re forecast to rise, just at a more moderate pace.

That’s why it’s mission-critical to work with a trusted advisor to make sure you’re up to date on what’s happening with home price appreciation in your market, so you can make an informed decision about your next move.

HOMES OVERVALUED Homes in South Florida are growing more overvalued, suggesting that the housing market may not be slowing down anytime soon. A housing index released this week by researchers with Florida Atlantic University and Florida International University indicates that homes in the region were 16% overvalued compared to their long-term pricing trends in September, an uptick from 14.29% in August. “These results are contrary to the reports that housing markets are slowing down across the country,” said Ken H. Johnson, a real estate economist with Florida Atlantic University. – Florida Atlantic University

MAIN STORY PROVIDED BY KEEPING CURRENT MATTERS

FLORIDA TO SEE HOUSING PRICE HIKES The country’s housing market is expected to cool in 2022, as mortgage rates tick up and inventory grows, a panel of experts said at the National Association of Real Estate Editors conference in December. The states that are expected to see the highest price increases next year are Florida at 10.7 percent, South Carolina at 8.9 percent, and Maine at 8.6 percent, according to CoreLogic data. Louisiana, at 2.9 percent, and New York and Wyoming at 3.6 percent, each, could see the smallest growth in home prices. – National Association of Real Estate Editors

ONYX MAGAZINE 49

JOIN OUR TEAM ONYX Magazine celebrates 25 years of entertaining, inspiring and informing African Americans throughout Florida. Join our team as we continue to expand. We are seeking experienced and enthusiastic Sales Representatives and Writers. Send your resume’ and writing clips (for writers) to info@onyxmagazine.com or call 321-418-7216.

CELEBRATING BLACK ACHIEVEMENT THROUGHOUT FLORIDA

50 ONYX MAGAZINE

FE M IN IN E FA S H ION

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE? NOT SO FAST. IT’S FLORIDA, Y’ALL. SO, WHAT DO WE WEAR THIS WINTER?

BY D. SHENELL REED

T

he winter months make us think of long coats, tall boots and fluffy scarves we can wrap a million different ways. However, in Florida, an outfit like that is likely to make you spontaneously combust!

Although we get our few weeks of chilly weather, fashion in most parts of Florida looks a lot like spring. So, how can we stay cool and still clothe ourselves in trendy winter fashions? Gretchy the Homemaker (Gretchen Hackmann) has a few tips.

LAYER WITH A SWEATER The idea of bundling to catch snowflakes on your tongue is a nice fantasy.

But let’s face it, a Florida wonderland doesn’t come with snow. The movies make us want to pull out our peacoats, but in the Sunshine State, you can probably get away with a light sweater. Gretchy recommends wearing a tank top and layering it. “Think cropped sweater or one with trendy details like ruffles, puff sleeves, ribbing or eyelet detail. This is definitely the time to bring out your winter whites too,” she says.

STAY WARM WITH A LIGHTWEIGHT JACKET OR VEST Sundown is when we tend to remember it is winter. The super cool winds hit hard when you are leaving the mall or making a quick run to the market.

“Make sure to have something that you can throw over whatever you’re wearing when the weather drops in the evening. Lightweight jackets, a vest, lightweight trench, and leather jackets are all good ideas. Think neutral colors so that you can mix and match everything,” says Gretchy.

DON’T GO ANYWHERE WITHOUT A LIGHTWEIGHT SCARF In Florida, we usually wear scarves to make a fashion statement—and it is typically light weight. Gretchy says a heavier scarf is not a bad idea to carry with you. “A big, luscious scarf is always a good idea during the Florida winter. If you’re wondering what to wear in Florida with a scarf, we recommend a scarf that is big enough that it can be wrapped around your shoulders.

Don’t be afraid of a pop of color, tassels, prints, and fabric. A quality scarf can be thrown over a tank top or worn with a leather Moto jacket. And if

it gets warm, you can always just bundle it up and throw it in your bag. So versatile. It’s a must.”

GO EVERYWHERE WITH MULES Leather, knee-high boots are super sexy, but not necessarily a smart buy in a state that rarely hits 50 degrees. Make sure your pedicures are on point, because here you can wear your heels out in the winter. “Mules or slides, those cool looking slip-on shoes without backs, are a must-have shoe for the fall/winter. Not to mention, they’re so comfortable and easy to wear!

You can also get them as flats or platforms,” says Gretchy.

TEXTURIZE WITH FISHNET TIGHTS Leg coverings don’t have to be boring. It you love wearing them, why not try fishnets? “Fishnet tights are still “in” this season! Don’t be afraid to wear this cool trend as they’re an amazing way to add texture to an outfit. This season, see your fishnet stockings as a neutral! Add them to your everyday wardrobe. No, really! We want to see fishnets popping out underneath pants at the ankles and underneath a dress,” she says.

ONYX MAGAZINE 51

MINDFULNESS

GET IN YOUR ZONE THE NEW YEAR IS A GREAT TIME TO START TAKING BETTER CARE OF YOURSELF

WHO EXPERIENCES STRESS? You can’t avoid stress completely — everyone experiences it sometimes.

There are common sources of stress, like the normal demands of work, family, school or other responsibilities. Then there are more stressful life events like losing a job, breaking up with a partner, or having a serious illness.

Trauma can also cause stress, like a natural disaster or a serious accident.

WHEN IS STRESS HARMFUL? When you are stressed for long periods of time, it can be harmful. With chronic stress, you might experience: Physical symptoms including stomach aches, headaches, or body aches.

Emotional symptoms including feeling anxious, irritable or having difficulty concentrating.

Stress can really take a toll on you. It can make your shoulders tense and your head ache. You might toss and turn at night, even when you feel exhausted. You might skip working out, or reach for unhealthy coping mechanisms like junk food or alcohol.

Over time, chronic stress can contribute to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and mental disorders.

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Are you reading these symptoms and nodding? Can you relate to some of these signs of stress? Well, there's good news: recognizing that you are stressed is the first step to being able to manage it better. Next, adding activities to your day such as exercise, mindfulness and even getting better sleep can help you address the harmful effects of stress.

ADDRESS YOUR STRESS IN THE MOMENT There are things you can do to tackle stress in the moment: Take a few deep breaths. It sounds silly, but deep breathing really can help reduce in-the-moment stress. Want to give it a go? One simple strategy is doubling the length of your exhale. For example, count out a two-second inhale, and a four-second exhale. Focus on your breathing, and take it slow and steady. You will quickly see your mind and body respond.

Practice some kind self-talk. When you’re stressed, it seems like even the thoughts inside your head get loud. If your inner voice is screaming, “I can’t do this!” try to think positive, calming thoughts: “It's OK to be nervous. Let me give this a go.”

Call someone. You probably have family, friends or colleagues who you trust with your emotions. Venting to someone can help you plan how to act or gain a new perspective, or just get something off your chest.

ADD A STRESS-BUSTING ACTIVITY TO YOUR ROUTINE You can also do activities that will help build up resiliency to stress over time. Regular exercise can boost your mood and reduce stress. It doesn’t have to be a grueling sweat session—just leash up the dog, put the baby in the stroller, or simply lace your shoes up and take a short walk. Relaxation methods such as mindfulness, meditation, breathing exercises or yoga can help boost your mood. Positive thinking can help you when the chips are down. Mistakes happen and everyone has bad days. Practicing positive selftalk can help you develop more compassion for yourself and put things in perspective.

INFORMATION PROVIDED BY KAISER PERMANENTE

F

ight or flight. It’s a biological response hard-wired into humans to help deal with a threat or challenge. When you encounter stress, hormones race through your body to help you either confront the threat (fight) or avoid it (flight).

You are probably familiar with ways your body reacts under stress — a quicker pulse, faster breath, tensed muscles, and sweaty palms. These are all responses aimed at helping you respond to a perceived "threat" — even if it's just your cat jumping on you in the middle of the night to say hello.

When the threat is over, the hormones subside, and the body relaxes.

Sometimes, stress helps. It can push you to meet an important work deadline or complete a road race. But stress over longer periods of time can be harmful to your physical and mental health.

ONYX PROFILE

FRED HEARNS BLACK HISTORY CURATOR

H

istorian, journalist, author, and community advocate Fred Hearns became the Black History curator at the Tampa Bay History Center in February of 2021. His role adds depth to the History Center’s curatorial ranks as the team takes on new community initiatives such as assisting with research on lost African American cemeteries, revamping part of the History Center’s permanent exhibit galleries, and collecting 2020-related artifacts as part of their Tampa Bay Stories effort.

Hearns has a long tenure with the History Center. In 2004, then-mayor Pam Iorio appointed him to represent the City on the History Center’s Board of Trustees. It was a pivotal time, as plans were underway for a new History Center to be constructed along a proposed 2.6-mile Riverwalk. Hearns has remained a mainstay of History Center programming, frequently appearing as a guest lecturer for educational programs at the museum. In 2017, he worked to develop the History Center’s Central Avenue Black History Walking Tour, which he led for three years.

The Bronx native and adopted Tampa son grew up in East Tampa and graduated from the University of South Florida (USF). After graduating, he worked as a journalist before being hired by the City of Tampa in 1975. He retired as director of the Department of Community Affairs under Pam

Iorio in 2007, a 32-year run. Soon after, he had a new title: Tour Guide.

Hearns led more than 300 tours through Tampa’s historic neighborhoods over more than a decade in business. As a history consultant for the City of Tampa and several private developers, he weighed in on major infrastructure projects including the Encore Housing development and Perry Harvey Park.

As a community volunteer, he worked to re-establish his alma mater, Middleton High School, and led the charge to build both the 78th Street Community Library and a new Robert W. Saunders Public Library. Hearns holds two master’s degrees, one in Africana Studies from USF and another in Organizational Management and Leadership from Springfield College. He has two books, “Getting it Done: Rebuilding Black America Brick By Brick” and “It’s Your Move!” about the Rev. Abraham Brown, to his name.

Hearns was the owner of Fred Hearns Tours and for 13 years led more than 200 bus and walking tours through Tampa’s most historic neighborhoods. He also was a local history consultant for government agencies and private industry developers. Hearns was founding president/chief executive officer of the Community and Law Enforcement Workshops & Services, Inc. (CLEWS) Program.

ONYX MAGAZINE 53

FOOD & WINE

POP AND SPARKLE!

I

t is the new year and we want to celebrate—not just on New Year’s Eve, but all January long we will be toasting with friends. Most say they toast with Champagne, but are they really? More than likely, they raise their glasses filled with sparkling wine in a Champagne-shaped bottle. It really does not matter, as long as you have a good, safe time. But here is some interesting info about the two bubblies.

Sparkling wine is a type of wine with high carbon dioxide levels, which makes it fizzy. The bubbles result from natural fermentation that occurs either in the bottle or in a large tank.

The fermentation happens when sugar is added to wine, and yeast starts acting on the sugar, releasing carbon dioxide. This carbon dioxide trapped inside a sealed space creates bubbles in the wine.

Many people refer to sparkling wine as Champagne. However, this term is exclusively reserved only for the sparkling wines made in the Champagne region of France.

Champagne wines account for 60% of France’s sparkling wine production (total of 550 million bottles).

Cheers!

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