“The residents of District 5 deserve a choice” 

Michael Hepburn

by Michael Hepburn

 [MIAMI] – This contentious presidential election just showcased how vital it is in our Democracy for the will of the people to be heard. One of the most important tools that our citizens have access to is the power of their Vote and advocating that our fellow man uses that tool should always be at the forefront – if you are a Leader.

The City of Miami four remaining City Commissioners have the chance to do just that.

With the upcoming vacancy of out-going City of Miami Commissioner Keon Hardemon (recently elected as a Miami Dade County Commissioner – District 3), the City of Miami Charter gives the Miami Commission ten days starting on November 17, 2020, to appoint someone to the seat or to call for a special election – so the residents of District 5 can choose their next Commissioner.

Currently the City Commissioners have scheduled a special commission meeting to take place on November 18^th, 2020 at 10am – to make this decision.

However, as a native son of Little Haiti who has resided in our city for 30+ years, and who lives in District 5. As an aspirant to become the next Commissioner from District 5, in our regularly scheduled November 2021 election. After visiting now more than 4,000 households of voters who reside throughout our district over the last four months. The feedback is crystal clear – Give Us The Ballot!

I understand the arguments on both sides, some Commissioners may feel that it’s not worth the cost to have a special election, especially since we are currently facing a budgetary deficit and still navigating Covid-19 recovery.

However, if we truly do believe in a Democracy – what price are you willing to put on allowing our people the opportunity to vote for their representation.

What circumstances is okay to impede the right for people to Vote, since so many have advocated, marched, been beaten, and have died to access this precious gift.

The will of the people is clear and as a champion for affordable housing, economic & workforce development, safe & secure neighborhoods, and high-quality education for all of us. This age of time demands nothing less.

Michael Hepburn (38), serves as a Coordinator for the Institute of Civic Engagement and Democracy at Miami Dade College. His professional work experience includes working as a Director of Operations for Progressive Turnout Project; Senior Advisor for University of Miami Business School; and as a Junior Executive for the National Football League.

Michael is an Educator, Civic Activist, and Mentor who served as a Citizen-On-Patrol with Miami Police Department; Co-Founder of the Allapattah Neighborhood Association; and City of Miami Parks & Recreation Advisory Board member.

He’s a proud Miami native and Alumnus of Miami Dade County Public Schools, Mami Dade College, and Florida International University.  

The post OpEd: City of Miami Commissioners Should – Give Us The Ballot! appeared first on South Florida Caribbean News.

Nancy Saint Pierre

Nancy Saint Peirre welcomed as a Partner

[MIAMI] – Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel, LLP welcomes Nancy Saint Pierre as a Partner. Nancy Saint Pierre is an experienced and seasoned trial lawyer who dedicated the first three years of her legal career to public service as an Assistant State Attorney with the Miami-Dade County State Attorney’s Office where she handled misdemeanor and felony cases.

As an assistant state attorney Nancy tried over 25 jury trials. The trial and courtroom experience she gained as an assistant state attorney serves as a foundation for her success in the civil litigation arena.

As a civil litigator with over 25 years of experience, Nancy has tried over 30 civil jury trials to verdict in circuit court. She focuses her practice primarily in personal injury insurance defense. Specifically, Nancy specializes in the defense of personal injury protection claims, bodily injury claims and under-insured motorist cases.  Nancy has extensive experience in taking expert witness depositions and arguing substantive dispositive motions, such as Motions for Summary Judgment and Motions to Dismiss for Fraud upon the Court.

Charlotte “Charly” Zubizarreta

Charlotte P. Zubizarreta welcomed as an Associate

Charlotte “Charly” Zubizarreta is an Associate in the Firm’s Miami office.

Charly focuses her practice in maritime and admiralty matters, personal injury defense, insurance coverage and general civil litigation in Federal, State and Administrative Courts.

Prior to joining the Firm, Charly worked with a Miami firm in their Admiralty and Maritime practice, and she managed over 100 defense litigation cases ranging in a variety of aspects of law including maritime and admiralty, general liability, and workers compensation.

She is experienced in alternative dispute resolution and has handled over 100 mediations, most to successful resolution. She is a skilled litigator and has secured many pre-trial judgments for her clients. She is licensed in all Florida Courts and in the Southern and Middle Districts of Florida.

Charly was born and raised in Miami, Florida. She obtained her Juris Doctorate from Fordham University School of Law, and her Literature degree from the Florida State University. While at Fordham, she served as Notes Editor for the International Law Review.

She also was a Competitor of the Willem C. Vis Moot Court Competition, where she was honored with an Honorable Mention for Best Oralist, and then served as Coach, leading her team to the highest placement of Best Oralist in Fordham’s history in the competition.

When not in the office, you can find Charly on the water as she is an avid boater and fisher woman. She has a strong connection to the Bahamas and Virgin Islands and uses these ties in her practice.

The post Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel Welcomes a Partner & Associate appeared first on South Florida Caribbean News.