“A Tribute to Community Service and Philanthropy”
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The sun shined brightly on Friday, November 1, 2024, as hundreds gathered at the intersection of Barden Street and Edison Avenue in Fort Myers to celebrate the honorary street naming ceremony for Attorney Joe North. The event, which was held at Dunbar High School, marked a significant moment in the community’s history, recognizing North’s outstanding contributions to the community as an accomplished attorney, pillar of the community, and generous philanthropist.
The ceremony began with a rousing performance by the Dunbar High School Marching Band, led by the esteemed Band Leader Dr. Leroy “Doc” Irving, Jr. The band and dance team set an energetic tone for the afternoon’s festivities. As well as the Dunbar Tigers football team, complete with coaches and all fifty players, proudly attended in support, as a testament to North’s enduring impact on local youth and sports programs
As the crowd settled, Kendra Sutton of KD Sutton Creative Solutions, The North Law Firm’s advertising & marketing agency, took the stage to deliver a warm welcome address. Sutton’s words set the stage for an afternoon of heartfelt tributes and fond remembrances.
The role of Master of Ceremonies was bestowed upon Mr. Lee Pitts, the Host & Executive Producer of Lee Pitts Live, and a longtime friend of Joe North. With his characteristic charm and wit, Pitts introduced each speaker, weaving together a tapestry of stories that highlighted North’s journey from his humble beginnings to his current status as a respected community leader.
Bishop Halsey Watkins of the Jesus Christ Outreach Center, North’s home church, opened the ceremony with a moving prayer, blessing the day and the man of the hour. His words resonated with the crowd, emphasizing the spiritual foundation of North’s commitment to service.
Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson took the podium next, praising North’s contributions to the city’s legal landscape and his unwavering dedication to improving the lives of its residents. Anderson’s speech underscored the importance of individuals like North in shaping the community’s future.
LaShaun Middlebrooks Collier, spoke on behalf of the Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency and its Executive Director, Michele Hylton Terry. Ms. Collier spoke about North’s role in leaving a legacy by helping to revitalize the community. Collier also highlighted North’s efforts to bridge economic and social divides within the city.
In a touching moment, Joseph North Jr. shared personal anecdotes about his father, offering attendees a glimpse into the man behind the accolades. His words painted a deeply touching picture of a spiritually devoted family man whose principles extend far beyond the courtroom; stating “the Joe North Way started as examples to me long before a street naming, but THIS couldn’t be a more fitting name as I have always seen and known the Joe North way.”
Dunbar High School Principal Carl Burnside took the opportunity to emphasize North’s ongoing support for education and youth programs. Burnside’s speech highlighted the attorney’s commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders, particularly within the Dunbar community. According to Burnside, North is his hero.
Councilman Johnny Streets, City Council Member for Ward 2, added his voice to the chorus of praise. Streets detailed North’s tireless advocacy for his clients and his ability to effect positive change through both legal channels and community involvement.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Joe North himself stepped up to the podium to offer his closing remarks. With characteristic humility and grace, North expressed his profound gratitude to God, to his family, and to the community that has shaped him.
“Without the love and support of this community, this does not happen,” he stated, his voice thick with emotion. “A street name is more than a point on the map… it’s an intersection between the neighborhoods, community and stories that it is only fitting that the street I grew up on and made so many friends and went to school on at Dunbar Middle (now High) School, becomes Joe North Way. I am so grateful that all of you are honoring me with this street name. I Thank You.”
North’s words resonated deeply with the assembled crowd, many of whom have known North since his youth on Barden Street. North’s journey from a kid in the Dunbar community to a respected attorney and philanthropist serves as an inspiration to many.
The ceremony not only honored North’s personal achievements but also highlighted his significant contributions to the community. The $100,000.00 donation made by Joe and Benita North to the Lee County Black History Society for the Black Cultural Center stands as a testament to North’s commitment to preserving and celebrating local history.
Moreover, the renaming of Dunbar High School’s football stadium to “North Law Firm Stadium” underscores his ongoing support for youth athletics and education.
As the new street sign bearing the name “Joe North Way” was unveiled, cheers erupted from the crowd. At that moment there was no smile was greater, than the smile on the face of North’s father, James North. Mr. James North lives on Joe North Way, making this deeply symbolic. That the street sign stands not just as a geographical marker, but as a symbol of what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and a steadfast commitment to one’s community.
The honorary street naming ceremony for Attorney Joe North was more than just a celebration of one man’s accomplishments. It reflects the spirit of Dunbar itself – a community that values service, philanthropy, and the power of giving back. As residents and visitors alike travel down Joe North Way in the years to come, they will be reminded of the impact one individual can have when they dedicate their life to service to the community.
