Keith Moore, a distributor of Black Culture Clothing and a spoken word artist, and Jamarr Stinnett, the owner of ARA Investments LLC and Cut 2 Perfections LLC, will be recognized as the historically disadvantaged businesses of the year.
“Those are basically minority and female businesses,” City of Springfield Minority Business Development Coordinator Cheryl DeGroat Dover said. “Those are historically disadvantaged businesses, so we have adopted that name for them.”
Dover said she chose Moore because he is an example for young people to look u to and see that they can do what he is doing. Stinnett was chosen because Dover knows having two businesses is not easy and wanted to honor him for his business success.
RELATED: Keynote speaker announced for Springfield MLK luncheon
Both men were chosen for their hard work and dedication to the community.
Additionally, 12 high school seniors will be recognized for their ability to resolve conflict and bridge cultural and social differences within their schools.
“Clark State is proud to be a sponsor for the luncheon in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.,” said Dr. Theresa Felder, senior vice president of student success at Clark State Community College. “We are also happy to recognize students from our local schools who exemplify the characteristics of Dr. King through activities in their schools and in their personal lives.”
Peacemakers honorees are: Ceci Luther, Catholic Central; Kyle Miller, Emmanuel Christian; Emily Ware, Global Impact STEM Academy; James Estes Jr., Greenon; Titus Dean Beard, Kenton Ridge; Alice Foreman, Northeastern; Allex Smith, Northwestern; Jaden Hall, Shawnee; Mozie Van Raaij, Southeastern; Sierra Wade, Springfield-Clark CTC; Jade Morrow, Springfield, and Caitlin Cory, Tecumseh .
Each student will receive a motivational book selected by John Young of Wittenberg University.
LOCAL: Victoria’s Secret is closing at Upper Valley Mall, but a dozen stores remain
Springfield Ohio Urban Plantfolk (SOUP) will be recognized for their urban agriculture approach to food security for residents in Springfield.
The luncheon’s theme “Living the Dream,” has the sub-theme of “What would King do?,” which was chosen by keynote speaker, Stephen Francis, Esq., president and lead strategist of Franchise D&I Solutions, LLC.
Dover will also share information about “an anonymous benefactor that is anxious to give money to minority businesses.”
Refreshments will be provided by D. Sweets and entertainment by Par and Dean.
Tickets for the luncheon, which is held at the Clark State Hollenbeck Bayley Conference Center, 275 S. Limestone St. in Springfield, are $25. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the City of Springfield Community Development Department at 937-324-7380.
About the Author