Preserving Our History, Our Story, Our Community
Written by Janice Hayes
Dr. Martin Luther King said, “We are not History Makers. We are made by History. The Sistrunk Historical Organization embodies the essence of this quote within a community of history-makers. Sistrunk Historical Organization is committed to preserving the rich history of the industrious African American pioneers of Broward County. Sistrunk Historical Organization’s board and supporters work diligently year-round to bring activities that provide cultural enrichment and community empowerment. The Sistrunk Parade and Festival is just one facet of the myriad programs they produce to help strengthen, inspire, and educate people of all ages, races, and backgrounds.
On December 11, 2022, the Sistrunk Historical Organization held its Annual Scholarship Gala at the Lavan Venue wherein Janice Hayes, served as mistress of ceremony. It was a spectacular evening filled with enthusiasm and excitement as the powerful and impressive history of Sistrunk (formerly Six Street) was retold by some who were children during the time when Six Street was the heartbeat of commerce, entertainment, and healthcare services for the Black community of Fort Lauderdale. James Freeman, Ronnie Hayes, Bobby R. Henry, Sr., Gloria Robinson, Anthony Wright, and many others shared legendary and soulful stories of the life and times of Six Street back in the day.
“When we needed a haircut, our shoes repaired, shopping for clothes, professional photos, to go to the doctor, or a footlong hotdog, we could get it on Six Street,” said James Freeman, whose family lived in the area from a young boy under after high school.
Through the generous support of its sponsors, the Sistrunk Historical Organization board presented three Broward County students with three scholarships totaling $6,000 for 2022 and will be able to award $10,000 in scholarships for 2023 graduates. Their major sponsors were Heritage Wireless Group Corey Alston, President, Walthour Enterprises, Owners Sonia and Bertran Walthour, The Westside Gazette Newspaper, and Drs. Deirdre Satterwhite Wilson and Dwight Wilson; Minority Builders Coalition, Brian Johnson, CEO; Smitty’s Wings, Helen Hinton, Manager; King Intelligence Security Services, Kaola King, President, Greg Brewton and Associates, and many other generous supporters. In addition, local leaders and government entities have
Temitope Ogunnaike said, “It is a great honor to have received the Sistrunk Historical Organization’s Scholarship that has helped fund the expenses of my education at Nova Southeastern University Your earnest investment in my future goals will not be forgotten.”
“I’m glad to say I was able to finish my race to higher education with the assistance of this organization. I will use the knowledge I gain to give back to my community and to pursue justice where it has long been eluded. Thank you for this opportunity and your investment in my success is an investment well spent,” said Imani Sameem.
The Sistrunk Historical Organization hosts several other events throughout the year including the Mother’s Day Comedy Show, the Gospel Fest, and the Community Health Fair. The Sistrunk Historical Festival and Parade will be held this year on Saturday, February 25thimmediately after the end of the Chris Smith 5K Relay event. The Sistrunk Parade will kick off at 9:00 am on the Sistrunk corridor between 19th Avenue and 9th Avenue. It will be followed by the Sistrunk Festival, a fun-filled event for the entire community including music and entertainment, food vendors, and informational and educational presenters until 9:00 pm.
The Sistrunk Historical Organization Board members include Henrietta Davis, Board Chair; Beverly Williams, Vice Chair; Dr. Mary Smith, Treasurer; Greer Robinson, Recording Secretary; Jandra Alexandra, Sebastian Brookfield, Kersandra Cone, Tiffany Davis-Prince, Anthony Williams, and Zarline Scott, Honorary Member. Lisa Monroe serves as the Administrative Grant Manager. Others who have volunteered and served on various committees include Dr. Camika Carey, Satia Timmons, Nethel Stephens, Anthony Wright Ella Carter, and many other community stakeholders. Together as a community, we can make a positive impact on our community and the legacy of our rich history.
The Sistrunk Historical Organization invites all interested parties to get involved with their events by becoming a member or volunteering to assist with one of our events. Please call Sistrunk Hotline at (754) 779-4376 or email us at sistrunk.festival@yahoo.com. For more information visit our website www.sistrunkfestival.org
Dr. Martin Luther King said, “We are not History Makers. We are made by History. The Sistrunk Historical Organization embodies the essence of this quote within a community of history-makers. Sistrunk Historical Organization is committed to preserving the rich history of the industrious African American pioneers of Broward County. Sistrunk Historical Organization’s board and supporters work diligently year-round to bring activities that provide cultural enrichment and community empowerment. The Sistrunk Parade and Festival is just one facet of the myriad programs they produce to help strengthen, inspire, and educate people of all ages, races, and backgrounds.
On December 11, 2022, the Sistrunk Historical Organization held its Annual Scholarship Gala at the Lavan Venue wherein Janice Hayes, served as mistress of ceremony. It was a spectacular evening filled with enthusiasm and excitement as the powerful and impressive history of Sistrunk (formerly Six Street) was retold by some who were children during the time when Six Street was the heartbeat of commerce, entertainment, and healthcare services for the Black community of Fort Lauderdale. James Freeman, Ronnie Hayes, Bobby R. Henry, Sr., Gloria Robinson, Anthony Wright, and many others shared legendary and soulful stories of the life and times of Six Street back in the day.
“When we needed a haircut, our shoes repaired, shopping for clothes, professional photos, to go to the doctor, or a footlong hotdog, we could get it on Six Street,” said James Freeman, whose family lived in the area from a young boy under after high school.
Through the generous support of its sponsors, the Sistrunk Historical Organization board presented three Broward County students with three scholarships totaling $6,000 for 2022 and will be able to award $10,000 in scholarships for 2023 graduates. Their major sponsors were Heritage Wireless Group Corey Alston, President, Walthour Enterprises, Owners Sonia and Bertram Walthour, The Westside Gazette Newspaper, and Drs. Deirdre Satterwhite Wilson and Dwight Wilson; Minority Builders Coalition, Brian Johnson, CEO; Smitty’s Wings, Helen Hinton, Manager; King Intelligence Security Services, Kaola King, President, Greg Brewton and Associates, and many other generous supporters. In addition, local leaders and government entities have
Temitope Ogunnaike said, “It is a great honor to have received the Sistrunk Historical Organization’s Scholarship that has helped fund the expenses of my education at Nova Southeastern University Your earnest investment in my future goals will not be forgotten.”
“I’m glad to say I was able to finish my race to higher education with the assistance of this organization. I will use the knowledge I gain to give back to my community and to pursue justice where it has long been eluded. Thank you for this opportunity and your investment in my success is an investment well spent,” said Imani Sameem.
The Sistrunk Historical Organization hosts several other events throughout the year including the Mother’s Day Comedy Show, the Gospel Fest, and the Community Health Fair. The Sistrunk Historical Festival and Parade will be held this year on Saturday, February 25thimmediately after the end of the Chris Smith 5K Relay event. The Sistrunk Parade will kick off at 9:00 am on the Sistrunk corridor between 19th Avenue and 9th Avenue. It will be followed by the Sistrunk Festival, a fun-filled event for the entire community including music and entertainment, food vendors, and informational and educational presenters until 9 p.m.
The Sistrunk Historical Organization Board members include Henrietta Davis, Board Chair; Beverly Williams, Vice Chair; Dr. Mary Smith, Treasurer; Greer Robinson, Recording Secretary; Jandra Alexandra, Sebastian Brookfield, Kersandra Cone, Tiffany Davis-Prince, Anthony Williams, and Zarline Scott, Honorary Member. Lisa Monroe serves as the Administrative Grant Manager. Others who have volunteered and served on various committees include Dr. Camika Carey, Satia Timmons, Nethel Stephens, Anthony Wright Ella Carter, and many other community stakeholders. Together as a community, we can make a positive impact on our community and the legacy of our rich history.
The Sistrunk Historical Organization invites all interested parties to get involved with their events by becoming a member or volunteering to assist with one of our events. Please call Sistrunk Hotline at (754) 779-4376 or email us at sistrunk.festival@yahoo.com. For more information visit our website www.sistrunkfestival.org
