The Gospel Truth July 2023

Sonless Martin

Connecting Communities Through Service And Collaboration

Publisher's Prayer

My Father, My Lord:

Thank you Father for the blessing to see the rising and the setting of the sun each day. I do not take your love and kindness for granted... I take them as reminders that You are a good and awesome God The blessing of yet another birthday fills my heart with joy This is a year that the Lord has made and I will rejoice and be glad in it. This year of my life is evidence that there is more work to be done, plans to be made, laughter to be had and life to be experienced!

Your goodness never ceases to amaze me as I am touched by how awesome You are Thank You for keeping me mindful that even during the most challenging times You are there! I appreciate every day You bless me with and every opportunity You bring my way. You created me and You know the desires of my heart. My life is in Your hands. Life is so much easier when I remember to place my trust in You.

Father even on the days that I have the best laid plans I seek Your guidance. Help me to put my limited perspective aside as I seek Your will for my life. Each day is a special gift from You. Thank you Father. Thank you Lord. Amen.

Teach Me, Lord

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Teach me, Lord, What I don't know.

Show me which way And where to go Alone I stumble, Alone I fall, But your gentle voice Leads through it all. Take my hand, Light my way, Be my beacon Night and day. I am weak

And sometimes so low, But you give me strength

And make me whole. Teach me, Lord and Father. Your child has become like new Empty me of myself So I can live for you.

Heather

Flood. "Teach Me, Lord." Family Friend Poems

Sandy Walker

A PLACE TO PONDER: The power of your words

By Vernita Chandler

Talk can be euphoric. The words out of our mouths can create, destroy, encourage or discourage. The Bible is true, Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

Proverbs 18:21.

What we believe, experience, and feel is shaped by the words we speak, hear, or read. Our words can be quite euphoric, leading to intense excitement and happiness, but what happens when we only have words and no action? The Bible reads in

Proverbs 14:23 (KJV) “In all labor there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury. I love how it reads in the New Living Translation “Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty!”

This post is not about money and wealth, but about the things that leave us broken in spirit, emptied of hope, and blind to possibilities. I once read a story about a man who

wanted to climb a great mountain. The thought of it was euphoric, and talking about it only fueled the euphoria. He began to tell everyone about his plans, in great detail, and with much excitement.

But something interesting happened, the euphoria created by his words, began to satisfy his desire to climb the mountain. The talk about his plans, the supplies, the anticipated challenges, and the joy of reaching the peak created a false sense of accomplishment. He experienced the euphoria in the talk but not n his reality.

How often have we been excited about the possibility of desired change, making a career change, launching your business ideas, starting a long-desired ministry effort? What about that desire to continue your education, and earning a degree or start a new exercise routine? We talk, dream, maybe even write

the plan so much that we mentally experience it without actually doing it. This post is a challenge to you, and to myself to take my lips off of it and put my hands and feet to it. I encourage you to join me. Take one action step, then another. Ask the Lord to help you remain focused, establish accountability partnerships, set reasonable goals and deadlines, and then put your hands and feet to the work.

You can do it, I can do it, we can do it. We must simply take our lips off of it and put our hands and feet to it.

Vernita Chandler is an ordained Elder in the Lord’s Church currently serving at Eagles’ Nest Cathedral International in Huntsville, Al. She is the author of Vernita’s PLACE blog and is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in Biblical Leadership at Huntsville Bible College, where she also serves as the Admissions Officer. Her work motto is “This is more than a job; it is ministry.”

How Gardening Can Boost Your Health

Since Covid, we have adjusted to spending more time at home and many people have used this time to start a garden in their backyard. There’s a saying that you reap what you sow and in the case of a vegetable garden, a rich harvest may bring more than dinner. Gardening is good for your body and mind, said dietitian Anya Guy.

So go ahead and dig in. You may go from an empty plot to a bounty. Guy said tending a garden offers an abundance of health benefits. “You will increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, ultimately because you have them right in your backyard,” she said.

Gardening also can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, and offer light physical activity. Wondering what to grow? Guys suggests a rainbow of variety be-cause “different vegetables have a variety of different

health benefits unique to each of them.”

Chili peppers and banana peppers contain capsaicin, which has been shown to have a number of health benefits. And then there’s eggplant, which, according to Guy, “grows surprisingly well in a home garden. It’s easy to grow and it can feed a lot of people in the family ”

Another good garden go-to: tomatoes. Rich in antioxidants, tomatoes contain potassium, vitamin C and are a source of fiber

Can’t grow a garden at home? “keep in mind that community gardens are another option,” Guy said. Embrace your green thumb, and you may be able to unpack your vegetable basket instead of a grocery bag.

1. Keep that caffeine habit

Sip coffee—before your workout to help raise the number of calories you torch afterward. When cyclists sipped espresso an hour before a ride, their resting metabolism—the number of calories they burned while not working out—leaped by 15 percent post-ride.

2. Pack on the protein

When you drop pounds, some of what you shed is calorie-burning muscle—a loss that can slow your metabolism. One fix: Double your protein. Study participants who downed twice the recommended daily allowance lost the same amount of weight—but much less muscle—as those who ate the RDA. Aim for 1.5 grams per 2 pounds of body weight per day to reap the results.

3. Stack your day

A study in the journal Obesity found that women who ate a 700-calorie breakfast and a 200-calorie dinner shed more than twice as much weight over 12 weeks as those whose meal sizes were reversed. Your body clock is linked to hormone dips that rev metabolism in the morning and leave it feeling sluggish at night, say study authors.

Voters with Special Needs

4. Drop the guilt

Twenty-seven percent of people associated chocolate cake with guilt. In a study from the University of Canterbury, those who felt bad about eating it were less likely to maintain their weight over a year and a half compared with the 73 percent of people who associate the dessert with celebration.

only bread they eat, according to Spanish researchers.

6. Power up with protein

Start your day with eggs and ham. Having a larger serving of protein at breakfast makes you less likely to overeat for the rest of the day, say researchers. Shoot for at least 20 grams.

7. Cut back on carbs

It’s one of the most reliable strategies for short-term weight loss. Dutch researchers found that eating one carb-free meal a day over a 2-week period can increase your metabolic rate by 81 calories per day. The key is making the meal about 70 percent protein and, of course, zero carbs. Watch for sneaky carb sources like milk, sausages, and barbecue sauce, just to name a few.

8. Replace don’t remove

Cutting calories too drastically can feel taxing, mentally and physically. Instead, make one tweak during each meal to get more nutrients like healthy fats, fiber, and protein into your diet. It’s as simple as sprinkling your yogurt with flaxseed instead of granola at breakfast or adding a handful of fresh spinach to your pasta sauce at dinner.

9. Dine in

5. Be wary of white bread

Limit your intake of white bread to less than 120 grams (four or five slices) a week. People are 40 percent more likely to be overweight if white bread is the

It should come as no surprise that weekends are the most popular days for dining out, according to the National Restaurant Association. But research has also found that eating dinner out adds 144 calories to your daily intake (but here’s how you can stay lean while dining out). It may not seem like a lot, but if you also ate out for lunch, that’s another 158 calories—plus, any away-from-home snacks tack on about 107 calories each.

Every voting location in Miami-Dade County meets Americans with Disability Act (ADA) standards. Each one is equipped with a paper-based voting system that uses touchscreen and/or audio technology, which could help voters who have issues with their eyesight, trouble reading or disabilities.

Summer is here, and not playing any games when it comes to this heat. Unfortunately, many places are experiencing heat waves, and people are in distress. And as easy as it is to switch on the AC, some people do not have that luxury of owning one or are looking for ways to bring the electric bill down, not up. So how can you cool if you fall into one of those categories?

Top 6 Ways to Stay Cool

Stay hydrated – Hydrating your body is the first and best way to cool yourself down. And one fact I learned is that it does not matter what temperature the water is because the water is there for moisture to cool itself.

6 Ways To Stay Cool This Summer Without Air Conditioning

Take a cold shower/bath – A cold shower/bath helps cool your body by lower your core temperature. Experts recommend adding peppermint soap to elevate the coolness. The menthol activates brain receptors to tell it that it’s feeling cool.

Box fan – This is one trick my grandparents used since they didn’t have air conditioning to combat the California sun. Place a box of fans out the window of a room you’re in to blow out the hot air and replace it with cool air.

Blackout Curtains – One word, LIFESAVER! If your room faces the sun, you want blackout curtains for your windows. Blackout curtains block out the sun and help reduce the room’s temperature.

Use a cold cloth or ice pack on your neck and wrists – Drape these cold items on your wrist or neck to keep cool. They contain pulse points where the blood vessels are close to the skin, which will cool you down more quickly.

Sleep

in breathable linens

– Cotton is one of the most breathable materials; it will help keep you cool through the night. Also, the lower the cotton thread count, the more breathable it is.

There you have it, six ways to keep you and your family cool this summer. Luckily, you can stay cool with just a few simple supplies and knowing how to manipulate your home’s temperatures.

PERMITTING MADE EASY

SAVE TIME. IT’S EASY. IT’S QUICK.

Whether you’re making an addition to your home, building a new space for your small business, renovating your home office, or correcting a code violation, in Miami-Dade County, you’ll need a building permit.

The Permitting Assistance Program makes permitting easy. We guide homeowners and small businesses through the process every step of the way at no additional cost. You can get help in person, over the phone, or virtually.

To book your free consultation, visit miamidade.gov/permithelp

DEPARTMENT OF REGULATORY AND ECONOMIC RESOURCES

To obtain this information in an accessible format, please call 305-372-6779.

Sonless Martin

Connecting Communities Through Service And Collaboration

Sonless Martin serves as a shining example of embracing community awareness to its fullest. He was born in the United States but has both Bahamian and Haitian heritage. Sonless navigates what some may see as a cultural challenge through compassion and love for all three countries. This has allowed him to contribute his skills and resources in significant tangible ways. In additional to his personal cultural interests Martin has developed lasting relationships within Hispanic and non Hispanic communities. His reach is far and wide.

Sonless Martin is a respected and sought after resource to those seeking to connect with the Bahamas, a natural paradise. His love for the Bahama Is-

lands is evident in all that he does. Sonless loves the people, the culture and all that encompasses the Bahamian spirit. He is the co-founder and former development advisor of Collaborative Consulting Group and has broad knowledge in all phases of government, campaigns and policies. While at CCG he took great pride in the day to day management of the business affairs of the firm, identifying short-term strategies for realizing the long-term goals established by the advisory members. His internal and external communications supported the firm’s high professional consulting standards.

For the past nine years Sonless Martin has held significant positions in local government. He has served as a

county commission aide and senior advisor, which led to director of policy and legislation. Sonless is a passionate communicator, who presents his views clearly, solicits opinions and concerns, and welcomes discussion on tough issues.

As a lifetime contributor to the Beacon School in Freeport, Grand Bahamas, he gives unselfishly. The special needs school was formerly known as the School for Exceptional Children when it opened in 1998. The Beacon School prepares its students for life after school and in some cases its students are returned to mainstream education. The Beacon School offers technical and vocational training in addition to the core academic subjects like language

arts, mathematics and social sciences. Because of his commitment to the school he was featured in The Freeport Newspaper as well as Cool 96 and ZNS Network radio.

National Advisory Council brings together distinguished leaders including former Cabinet officials, members of Congress and every living Secretary of State.

BBL Gabo and Lila Book Scholarship.

In 2019

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan) selected Sonless Martin amongst the Top young professionals across the country to participate in the Mosaic Taiwan Fellowship program. This 10-day long exchange program provides US and Canadian young professionals an opportunity learn and explore Taiwan through workshops, lectures, historic site visits and cultural activities.

The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition’s Next Gen Global Leaders Network selected Martin to participate in the class of 2022. The USGLC works in our nation’s capital and across the country to strengthen America’s civilian led tools of development and diplomacy alongside defense. By advocating for a strong International Affairs Budget, the USGLC is working to make America’s international affairs programs a keystone of U.S. foreign policy. The USGLC’s

Sonless has been described by colleagues, faculty, and friends as a truly remarkable individual whose ambition, professionalism, charisma and intellect is only surpassed by his sincere passion for helping others. Sonless believes in win-win results as he leverages his unique experiences, business acumen, and intestinal fortitude to achieve goals both personally and professionally. As a trustee of The University of the Bahamas Sonless Martin is committed to supporting the educational goals of the university and the students it serves. Sonless enjoys traveling, playing basketball, and making a huge difference in the lives of others. He serves as a board member for BAC Funding, Chairman of Beacon for Change, Inc., a Trustee member of Florida House DC, former board member of Black Professionals Network, the former Co-Chair of the Haiti Ministry, and Founder of

Sonless is a recipient of the 2018 Difference Maker Award from the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, 2018 Sapoznik Insurance Public School Alumni Achievement Award, 2019 Black Men in Excellence Award, 2021 Haitian American Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals 20 under 40 award, and 2021 Legacy Magazine’s 40 under 40 honoree. Sonless is also a Lifetime Member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity Incorporated.

With all of his professional and community commitments Sonless values his time with his wife, Allene and daughter more than anything else. He understands the value of quality family time and makes it a priority.

Sonless Martin’s studies at Florida Memorial University and the H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship contributed greatly to his appreciation of the value of educational excellence.

6th Annual Nurse Empowerment and Leadership Conference

The 6th Annual Nurse Empowerment and Leadership Conference, was recently held at the Signature Grand in Davie, Fla. This year the conference was honored to have the Pascale Belony, Miss Universe Haiti, and a Board Certified Registered Nurse renowned for her beauty, intelligence, and philanthropic endeavors, to serve as emcee for one of the special sessions.

Miss Universe Haiti’s involvement added a prestigious and captivating element to the already dynamic event. Her presence reflected the significance of the conference and its mission to empower nurses and transform healthcare through collaboration and innovation.

The 6th Annual Nurse Empowerment and Leadership Conference was designed to provide participants with the opportunity to:

• Reconnect with their professional community

• Rebuild knowledge and skills

• Reignite passion for nursing

Pascals Belony

Miss Universe Haiti

Business Resources & Educational $2,500 Grant Program

3 REASONS TO RETHINK YOUR FITNESS GOALS:

Exercise should make you feel good. Many people, regardless of ability, have a lifelong perception that a workout requires pain, sweat and endurance to be effective. Not true, said Segar: “Physical activity can be an escape.” And, as evidenced by the high-active women in the U-M survey, viewing fitness as a complement—and not a chore—makes the prospect easier.

Those who have negative thoughts about the gym needn’t worry.

“Countless studies have shown that physical activity that takes place outside is really, really effective,” said Mark Peterson, Ph.D., a U-M assistant professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation who wasn’t involved with Segar’s review. So put on some sunblock and try a nature hike or a Frisbee game instead.

Exercise Doesn’t Have to Be as Long (or as Painful) as You Think

What makes a morning trip to the gym or an after-work bike ride an essential (and even joyful) habit for some people? And why do others shun the notion of regular physical activity? The difference might come down to perception. You’re less apt to exercise when the endeavor feels isolating, painful or unlikely to deliver visible results such as weight loss. By comparison, those who enjoy their exercise of choice are more inclined to stay active—even after setbacks. That’s what University of Michigan researchers learned after conducting focus groups with women about what motivates (and undermines) exercise. The results were published in May in BMC Public Health.

Exercise is a great way to socialize. It’s tougher to dodge or delay a workout when you are doing it with a friend or co-worker. That’s why so many basement treadmills double as a laundry drying rack, joked Peterson, who beyond his solo gym trips schedules group exercise several times a week. “I like it so much more when my friends show up,” he said.

The value is real: A 2017 study that followed the exercise patterns of more than 1 million people found that friends hold sway. Still, the low-active women in the U-M analysis voiced concerns that exercise detracts from interpersonal obligations. Countered Segar: “Movement is a great way to be with and give to your friends and loved ones. Instead of having a coffee catch-up, how about a walking catch-up? Or you can play outside as a family.”

Exercise affects all parts of your life. Want to improve your sleep, sharpen workplace performance and reduce stress? Fitness plays a role in all of that—and it has long-term benefits such as slowing cognitive decline. Perks also can be instant. “Research shows people can walk for just a few minutes and boost their energy,” Segar said. “Who doesn’t want that?”

Conversely, your body goes through noticeable changes when you stop exercising, even if the break lasts only a short time. “Cardiovascular fitness and strength deteriorate within weeks; it does happen pretty quickly,” said Peterson. Among the other potential downsides to inactivity are increased blood pressure and blood sugar. Memory benefits can decrease, too.

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

C h u r c h D i r e c t o r y SOUTH DADE

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THE GOSPEL TRUTH