Photos courtesy of STEVE VINIK/African American Research Library and Cultural Center

In top photo, students from Walker Elementary, William Dandle Middle and Northeast High schools pledged to “Choose Peace/Stop Violence” by drawing positive messages and a giant peace sign on Wednesday, Sept. 17, in the parking lot of the African American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. The project is an annual initiative of the United Way of Broward County Commission and Broward County Public Schools. In bottom photos, at left, Emcee Sam Monroe of the United Way of Broward introduced high school poet Peter Lange of Northeast High School, who shared positive messages in poetic rhythms. Right, a student adds a cheerful message just before rains arrived.