Author: Carma Henry

     The data collected over Big Brother Big Sisters of America’s 110+ year history of serving the community shows that parents and guardians typically prefer mentors who share the same background and gender as their children. Because of this, our Black Littles often have to wait longer for a mentor.

     “This is the first year we’ve honored teenage mentors in our Big of the Year program,” said Malena Mendez, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward.  “They certainly are worthy of this special recognition, as are our adult Bigs.  We’re so grateful to all of Bigs of the Year for their life-changing service to their Littles.”

     Few people can be considered legends in their own lifetimes; however, the late Coach Herman “Big Man” Pittman (November 14, 1927) truly led a legendary life. “Pitt,” as he  well known , will go down historically as one of the top high school coaches in South Florida. Coach Pittman recently passed away on February 11, 2022 and will be mourned by the thousands upon thousands of lives he touched.

         We are forever indebted because of God’s grace and mercies as He protected, provided for, nourished and put in place that which we needed to continue over these 51years.

Jackson almost didn’t compete in the 500m at the Olympics; however, her teammate Brittany Bowe gave up her spot, allowing Jackson to replace  her. Not only is she the first Black woman to win an individual medal in speed skating, but she is also the first US woman to win a speed skating gold at the winter Olympics since Bonnie Blair did in 1994. It is amazing to see women, specifically Black women, making monumental achievements in history.

     Hocus-pocus, just like that, the child sexual molestation case against judge John B. Bowman no longer exists. According to a City of Plantation Police Department’s recent Incident Report, the case was “closed/cleared 10/11/2018.” We asked that city’s police department attorney, Melissa Presser in September 2018, before we published our initial article about the judge titled “What do you think about this judge?” and she said the “case is inactive.”

Why not celebrate the month of Love by gifting Heartfelt Child Advocacy for every child in foster care.

     Black candidates in 2022 will be electable and viable, with millions of dollars in their war chest.  In the Democratic Party, Blacks have been the most loyal and consistent as a voting bloc, so why is there not more campaign money spent to educate the Black community.

        There are many ways to approach setting yourself up for financial success. We know it’s important to spend within our means and save, making sure to have a “rainy-day” fund for unexpected expenses like a car repair. However, a topic that’s not addressed enough is how to manage credit wisely and the importance of a good credit score.

   Doc Otis Roper, Jr. has taken his wings and transitioned home to Glory on February 2, 2022.  Doc was born March 25, 1955, to the late Dock and Evelyn Roper in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He graduated from Planation High School in 1973.