Community Newspapers SERVING MIAMI-DADE COUNTY SINCE 1958
DECEMBER 2009
INSIDE THIS
ISSUE FUTURE HOME OF
SENIOR CENTER & BOTANICAL GARDENS • • • • • • • • • •
STAND UP! BE HEARD! BE COUNTED!
• • • • • • • • • •
CRIME PREVENTION
Miami Gardens
Crime in the City has Decreased according to National Report Mayor Shirley Gibson, City Council and Miami Gardens Police Department received good news for the close of 2009 and heading into a new year. According to City Crime Rankings 2009-2010: Crime in Metropolitan America, the City of Miami Gardens has dropped 22 Mayor Shirley Gibson places to 35th in the nation compared to 13th in 2008. CQ Press of Washington, D.C. publishes this report annually based on a statistical comparison of information received from the Federal Bureau of Investigation on a broad range of reported crimes. This decrease is significant as it is a strong indicator of the City’s successful implementa-
tion of its own Police Department. The Miami Gardens Police Department, which started on December 16, 2007, has made great strides in the prevention, detection and suppression of criminal activity within the City. Using progressive and effective deployment strategies, the Department has utilized technological and strategic resources to realize a crime reduction of 28% over the past two years (17% in 2008 and 11% YTD in 2009). These reductions come despite budget restrictions, assumption of specialized services from Miami-Dade County and the continual training and addition of staff members. The dedication of the men and women of the Miami Gardens Police Department have been complimented by the efforts of all departments in the City. The City has received funding and made a significant step towards improving the quality of life in our neighborhoods through active code enforcement and the purchase and reha-
bilitation of foreclosures through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. The City is greatly anticipating the arrival of the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl XLIV in January 2010. Efforts are currently underway to ensure that all visitors to the City of Miami Gardens are safe and enjoy their time in this great City. The City of Miami Gardens is very progressive in its implementation of programs and projects designed to improve the quality of life, stimulate economic growth and provide excellent service to the community. The significant reduction in the City’s crime ranking for 2009-2010 is only one example of our ever-growing commitment to the residents and business owners of the City. The City of Miami Gardens is striving to “Build a Safer Community”, this is the main reason the City and its residents committed the resources to create its own municipal police department. Renee Michelle Harris of South Florida Times contributed to this article
The City of Miami Gardens Re-launches New & Improved Website . . . HELPING THE GARDENS GROW! A brand new way to ‘feel’ the flavor of the City of Miami Gardens is coming soon. During the past few months staff members from various City of Miami Gardens departments have worked diligently to design a newer and fresher City website. With input and direction from the IT Department, the Web Steering Committee updated the website in such a way that visitors could not only see Miami Gardens, but “feel” Miami Gardens as well. The launch of the revamped website is scheduled to take place before the Christmas holiday. The goal of the new website is to be a more user friendly, resourceful, and a clearly understandable web portal. The new site will have a better visual appeal that will offer residents an accessible means of communications to link with City staff and council members, find useful information and provide a valuable resource for visitors to experience the splendor of the City of Miami Gardens. Immediately upon accessing the revised website, visitors will recognize that: • The site color scheme matches the colors of
the City seal. • The website layout and template remain constant on each page, making it easier to navigate throughout the site. • The pages devoted to the Mayor, City Council and City Departments make it possible for residents and visitors to submit comments or suggestions and send e-mails • The subtitles on the title bar tell browsers exactly what is in each particular tab. • A greater number of pictures on the site depicting the relationships between residents, staff, City Council and the Mayor. • The search bar is centrally located allowing browsers to clearly see the Calendar of Events that are scheduled to take place in the City. Visit the City of Miami Gardens website frequently for up-to-date information about your community and current events. Our website address will remain the same, www.miamigardens-fl.gov. Spread the word. The launch of your new website is coming soon!!!
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
December 2009
•• PUBLIC WORKS ••
Keeping the City Beautiful!
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will transplant forty trees located at the intersection of NW 2nd Avenue and 7th Avenue Extension as part of the first beautification project completed by the City of Miami Gardens since its incorporation.
I send greetings in the Spirit of Prosperity, Forgiveness and Love! This time of the year when we celebrate, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Kwanzaa and Hanukkah it heralds the end of the past year. Yes, 2009 has been a challenging year, but I want to focus our attention on the many lessons we have learned and the blessings that are in our lives. We will celebrate the New Year and work together as only Miami Gardens can for a better year in 2010.
FDOT has generously agreed to relocate the majority of these trees to the Florida Turnpike onramp at 199th Street at no cost to the City. In an effort to maximize the beautification that the relocated trees will bring to the turnpike property, the Florida Turnpike Authority has also agreed to add an additional $20,000 in landscape improvements to the area. The removal of the royal palms, Alexander palms, oleander trees and silver buttonwoods began on Tuesday, November 17, 2009. The changes will no doubt have a significant impact on the aesthetics in the area. In keeping with this commitment, the City has determined that all affected areas will be replanted with attractive shrubs and colorful flowers.
December 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Miami Gardens Calender of Events December 2009 DECEMBER 15 Special Master Hearing Red Light Hearing 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers @ 9am
Commission for Women Board Meeting 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
DECEMBER 16 Special Master Hearing Red Light Hearing 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers @ 9am
DECEMBER 17 Parks & Rec. Advisory 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 City Hall Conference Room Miami Gardens, FL @ 6:30pm
Elderly Affairs Advisory Committee City Hall Conference Room @ 3pm – 4:30 pm
Dept., 1020 NE 163 Drive Miami Gardens, FL @ 7pm DECEMBER 24 Christmas Holiday City Hall CLOSED DECEMBER 25 Christmas Holiday City Hall CLOSED
DECEMBER 21 Citizens Advisory Committee Police
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DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
December 2009
•• Community News •• MORTGAG E UPSIDE DOWN? NEED HELP?
City of Miami Gardens Purchases Property for the Future Home of Senior Center and Botanical Garden
Call Walter at 305-606-5929
The City of Miami Gardens recently purchased a fourteen acre tract of land from the Archdiocese of Miami. The property, located at the corner of NW 12th Avenue and NW 183rd Street is earmarked for development and future use as a park and senior center. Several buildings are located on the property. The largest is to be renovated to
accommodate a Senior Center for the Parks and Recreation Department. Another will be used as a remote storage facility for old city records that must be retained under law. Two single family homes are located on this beautiful property. One of the residences has already been outfitted to house the City’s new Community Policing bureau. The other, a two-story farm house built in 1925 is one of the first homes to be constructed in northern Dade County. The City plans to renovate the farm house and eventually open it to the public for use as a historical museum in the City. In addition, the City’s Long term is to develop the ten acres of vacant land into a botanical garden worthy of the name “Miami Gardens.” B"H
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December 2009
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City of Miami Gardens Staff Directory Name Julie-Ann Smith Sonja K. Dickens Ronetta Taylor Danny Crew Renee Farmer Daniel Rosemond Vernita Nelson Tsahai Codner Ramon Arronte Denese Williams Mike Gabino Taren Kinglee Kara Petty Jay Marder O. Tom Ruiz Pam Thompson Daniel A. Rosemond Ula Zucker Matthew Boyd
Extension 2791 2750 2710 2720 2740 2730 3130 2636 2700 3321 2291
3388 2490 2380 2480
Department Asst. to Mayor & Council City Attorney City Clerk City Manager Deputy City Manager Asst. City Manager Asst. City Manager KMGB Director Interim Building Director Interim Finance Director Flood Plain Administrator Human Resources/Risk Director Interim Director Director/Planning & Zoning Director/Public Works Procurement Manager Director/Community Develop. Event & Media Coordinator Miami Garden Chief of Police City Hall Police Emergencies
E-mail jsmith@miamigardens-fl.gov sdickens@miamigardens-fl.gov TaylorR@miamigardens-fl.gov crewd@miamigardens-fl.gov rfarmer@miamigardens-fl.gov drosemond@miamigardens-fl.gov vnelson@miamigardens-fl.gov TsahaiCodner@miamigardens-fl.gov rarronte@miamigardens-fl.gov dwilliams@miamigardens-fl.gov mgabino@miamigardens-fl.gov jborgus@miamigardens-fl.gov kpetty@miamigardens-fl.gov jmarder@miamigardens-fl.gov truiz@miamigardens-fl.gov pthompson@miamigardens-fl.gov drosemond@miamigardens-fl.gov uzucker@miamigardens-fl.gov
Main 305-622-8010 305-622-8055 305-622-8003 305-622-8007 305-622-8006 305-622-8005 305-622-8008 305-622-8009 305-622-8000 305-622-8000 305-622-8039 305-622-8030 305-622-8080 305-622-8025 305-622-8000 305-622-8000 305-622-8000 305-622-8000 305-474-1400 305-622-8000 Dial 911
City of Miami Gardens Mayor and Council’s Corner To contact your Council representatives, call 305-622-8010.
Mayor Shirley Gibson
Vice-Mayor Oliver G. Gilbert III (Seat 6)
Councilman Aaron Campbell Jr. (Seat 1)
Council Woman Barbra Watson (Seat 2)
Councilman Andre Williams (Seat 3)
Councilman Melvin L. Bratton (Seat 4)
Council Woman Sharon Pritchett (Seat 5)
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
December 2009
•• FYI ••
Bunche Park Residents Receive Help with Paint and Drainage WHAT SOME KIDS DO ON THEIR WEEKENDS! The South Florida Youth Symphony Now in the 45th Season offering musical training to students, has a Classical Guitar Program at Miami Dade College North Campus which meets every Sunday afternoon. This class, with piano and strings are offered to beginners as well. There are three levels of Orchestra as well. You can hear two of them on Saturday December 12th at Miami Dade College’s Family Holiday Festival at the North Campus from 11 AM to Noon and 3:30 PM Dec. 13th at Fla Memorial University, Lou Rawls Center.. Students who have the desire to play music, become a teacher or performer or just want a place to share culture and socially develop with their friends, this may be your opportunity. Call the South Florida Youth Symphony today to join the 190 students already enrolled, and learn more 305-238-2729.
Prior to the City of Miami Gardens becoming an incorporated city, community leaders made a commitment to assist with neighborhood improvements. Since then, residents and visitors to the great City of Miami Gardens have seen marked improvement in many of the City’s major corridors and parks. Bunche Park, one of the oldest and poorest neighborhoods in the City of Miami Gardens will receive an infusion of federal grant dollars to improve its overall appearance. In late October, the Miami Gardens City Council approved a program to provide up to $10,000 per home for exterior painting. Code Enforcement records reveal that several properties in the Bunche Park area have been cited for paint violations. This new program is an ideal way for low income residents to come into compliance while help to improve the general appearance of the entire neighborhood. In addition, City administrators will maximize the effect of this program by leveraging its resources with Dade County Public Schools’ Project MPACT (Miami Partnership for Action in Communities Task Force), an advocacy program that offers intensive, customized and comprehensive intervention services to high risk youth 12 to 22 years of age. Project MPACT services include mentoring, life skills and professional devel-
opment classes, on-the-job training and employment opportunities, as well as academic and behavior monitoring. Project MPACT will work with the paint contractors to provide program graduates as a free labor pool for the neighborhood improvement project. The youth who will be engaged in this project will work up to three months on an assignment with an ultimate goal of securing permanent paid employment with the contractor. Preference for youth participation in this program is given to youth who reside in City of Miami Gardens. In addition to the paint program, Bunche Park residents will also benefit from an infusion of federal stimulus dollars to install needed drainage infrastructure. $128,405 in CDBG-R funds has been set aside to install stormwater drainage and for the reconstruction of NW 161 Street from NW 26 Ave to West Bunche Park Drive and NW 162 Street from NW 26 Ave to NW 162 Street. These two streets were identified because the stormwater drains in that area are either inadequate or nonexistent. The City’s investment of more than $240,000 in this neighborhood is a clear demonstration of its sincere commitment to addressing resident needs. For more information contact The Community Development Office at (305) 622-8041 or visit us on the web at <www.miamigardens-fl.gov/cd>.
Job opportunities Calder Casino & Race Course is “Racing into the Future” with the opening of a new Casino in January 2010. We are seeking customer service professionals who know how to create “Winning Experiences” for our guests and team members. We welcome applications from the citizens of Miami Gardens!
Apply online at <www.calderracecourse.com> and click on Careers at the bottom of the page. Note: Florida licensing requires all candidates to pass a thorough background check. Don’t miss this opportunity to find an exciting position in your own community!
December 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
City of Miami Gardens sponsors energy efficiency for homeowners The City of Miami Gardens is pleased to announce its newest Community Development initiative The Energy Efficient Retrofit (EER) program. The EER program is supported by federal stimulus funds that were earlier this year. It will provide individual grants to help income-eligible homeowners get high grade insulation for their homes. Heating and cooling costs account for 50 to 70 percent of all energy used in the average American home today and inadequate insulation and air leakage are leading causes of energy waste in most homes. Proper insulation saves money and preserves our nation’s limited energy resources. Proper insulation makes homes more comfortable by maintaining a uniform temperature throughout the house; and makes walls, ceilings, and floors warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. By offering this program, the City hopes to help residents lower their energy bills by as much as 30 percent.
To be eligible for the Energy Efficient Retrofit Program, homeowners must: • Comply with established lowincome guidelines (up to 80 percent of area median income) • Own and occupy the residence • Be a US citizen or resident alien • Be current with existing mortgage and real estate taxes • Have up-to-date homeowners insurance coverage The City Council approved an overall budget of $205,681 for the EER program. In addition to helping homeowners save on energy costs, the EER program is intended to help stimulate the creation of jobs in the community by encouraging residents to talk the local contractors to perform the required work. For more information about the EER program, please call (305) 622-8041 or visit the City of Miami Gardens Community Development Department website at <www.miamigardens-fl.gov/cd> .
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City of Miami Gardens Police Department Use these numbers to contact us Operations Division Major Steve List Captain Athena Skellion Patrol Division
305-474-1406 305-474-1380 305-474-1406
School Crossing Guards Cherise Asberry Traffic Concerns Neighborhood Watch Report Truants
305-474-1526 305-474-1391 305-474-6473 305-474-6473
Investigations Division Major Anthony Chapman Captain Rafael Suarez Captain Frank Trujillo Auto Theft/Pawn Unit CST/Narcotics Unit
305-474-1382 305-474-1430 305-474-1418 305-474-1428 305-474-1427
Support Services Division Major Alan Mandelbloom Captain Alfred Lewers Jr Communications Center Court Liaison Off Duty Police Employment Records Unit
305-474-1381 305-474-1405 305-474-MGPD (6473) 305-474-1412 305-474-1412 305-474-1413
Professional Standards/Training Unit Background Investigations 305-474-1409 Captain Marilyn Gongalez 305-474-1410 Training Unit 305-474-1674 Non-Emergency Police Communications & Infor mation (305) 474-MGPD (6473)
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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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December 2009
Re-Occupancy Certificate Program Implemented in the City of Miami Gardens Effective October 1, 2009, the City of Miami Gardens implemented the Certificate of Re-Occupancy Program, in accordance with Ordinance 2009-04176, adopted by the City Council on January 28, 2009. A Certificate of ReOccupancy is required for all residential units within the City of Miami Gardens. This is the City’s way of ensuring that housing units are in compliance with the City’s minimum zoning requirements and providing new home buyers with verification that no zoning violations are present at the time of inspection. Any individual who wishes to sell residential property or their designated agent must submit an application for a Certificate of Re-Occupancy, along with $75.00 for standard five to seven business day processing or $175.00 for expedited processing in three days, along with a copy of a contract signed by both
the seller and the buyer. Applications may be dropped off or mailed with the appropriate fees to: City of Miami Gardens Attn: Code Compliance Division 1515 NW 167th St., Bldg. 5, Suite 200 Miami Gardens, FL 33169 Upon receipt of the application, the City will contact the real estate agent or designated party identified on the application to schedule a date and time for the City’s Housing Inspector to gain access to the property. The City of Miami Gardens will either provide a Courtesy Sheet, identifying any outstanding code violations or a Certificate of Re-Occupancy. For more information please contact Ms. Kristy Cross at 305-622-800 ext. 2622, fax: 305-622-8855 or email: Kcross@miamigardens-fl.gov.
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December 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
Stand Up! Be Heard! Be Counted! Census 2010 The City of Miami Gardens’ first opportunity to be counted as an incorporated US city will be on April 1, 2010. The City of Miami Gardens is currently mounting a Complete Count Public Relations Campaign to encourage everyone who resides within the City limits to be counted. The US Census Bureau is the federal government agency responsible for counting the population every ten years. The 2010 Census is important because federal and state funding is based on the population. The City of Miami Gardens stands to gain thousands of dollars for each person who is counted. During the 2000 census, the final response rate was 65 percent in Miami Dade County overall. This means that 35 percent of all Miami-
Dade households were NOT counted, resulting in the County not having access to federal funds for services that it was entitled to. When the 2010 census form arrives in your mailbox, be sure to fill it out completely and mail it in… and tell all of your neighbors too! The United States Census is 100 percent confidential. By law, your information is not shared with anyone, including other federal agencies or state or local law enforcement entities; nor is it in any way linked to an individual’s residency status. Everyone who lives in the United States, regardless of their legal status, has a right and a responsibility to be counted. For additional information about the 2010 US Census, contact Jay Marder, 305-622-8025 or jmarder@miamigardens-fl.gov.
Congresswoman Carrie Meek and Rick Tonkinson at the new YMCA Village of Allapattah family branch
Congresswoman Carrie Meek and Rick Tonkinson at the grand dedication ceremony of the YMCA Village of Allapattah Family Branch that took place on Friday December 11, 2009. Congresswoman Meek thanked Rick for his $5,000 donation to the family branch. Rick Tonkinson is a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) who has worked with several families in Allapattah, Miami Gardens, North Miami and Opa Locka for the past 18 years.
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December 2009
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Start the New Year off right! Do you have a special interest story, important news, information or a special event you would like to share with the Miami Gardens community? Do you have employment opportunities or a business you want to advertise? The Miami Gardens Community Newspaper offers residents and business owners an opportunity to get the word out! Over 10,000 issues are distributed each month throughout the City of Miami Gardens at various locations including churches, schools, supermarkets, salons, restaurants and other sites. Start writing and get heard! Articles should be written in most complete form when submitted and should include the most important elements of who, what, where, why and when. Make it as interesting as possible using no more than 400-600 words. Photos will be accepted but will not be returned (electronic/digital photos in JPEG are preferred; however a hardcopy will be accepted). Please identify people in photos from left to right. All special event information should be
no more than 100 words. Include: who, what when, where, time, date, telephone number, website and contact person. Submitting materials to the City of Miami Gardens Community Newspaper does not guarantee it will be printed due to a number of factors which can include timeliness, appropriateness, and newsworthiness and space limitations. If the information you submit is printed, you are granting the City of Miami Gardens all rights to publish. Submissions should be sent electronically to cmgnewspaper@miamigardensgl.gov. Hardcopy items should be mailed to Ula Zucker, Events and Media Coordinator, ATTN: CMG Community Newspaper, City of Miami Gardens, 1515 NW 167th Street, Bldg. 5, Suite 200, and Miami Gardens, FL 33169. Mailed items will not be returned and will remain the property of the City of Miami Gardens. For more information, please call 305-622-8035. For advertising rates and information, please contact Mr. Walter White at Miamiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Newspapers, (305) 669-7355.
December 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Holiday Cheer, Not Domestic Violence BY TIFFANY C. BRITTON, ESQ. The holidays mean that there are lots of parties to attend, dishes to wash, and family members to see. During this time of year, feelings of joy and cheer are all around us; but for some, there is a heightened level of fear, worry, and even torment. Experts warn that the holiday season brings with it an increase in alcohol consumption, drug abuse, anxiety, and depression. There is also an increase in the number of arguments about relatives and money or the lack thereof. For some, the holidays are anything but joyous. Instead, they are stressful on family and personal relationships and sometimes lead to incidents of domestic violence. Domestic violence is a crime that is different from most others because it is a crime committed by an intimate partner or relative. Because of the connection between the individuals involved, domestic violence is as at times difficult to recognize and embarrassing or scary to report. The Florida Depart of Law Enforcement (FDLE) reports that there were 115,150 reported domestic violence cases in 2007 alone. In MiamiDade County, 11,012 cases of domestic violence were reported. The good news is that this number went down the following year. However, this does not mean that the overall number of domestic violence attacks wend down… only the attacks that were reported. Although there is a decrease in the number of reported cases last year, it must be recognized that a significant number of domestic violence cases are never reported. Under Florida law, domestic violence means any ”assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another family or household member.” [F.S. 741.28]. Although the law provides a way to criminalize domestic violence, physical abuse is not the only form of domestic violence. Domestic violence can lead to mental and physical ailments including a feeling of emptiness, fear, depression, low self esteem, high blood pressure,
LEGA L
and physical injuries that are a result of or in association with the abuse. Physical abuse is not the only form of domestic violence. The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress defines domestic violence as physical, psychological, mental, and/or emotional abuse. It can also be financial or economic in nature. The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress has compiled a list of ways for people to determine if they are in an abusive relationship. The following list is a sampling of the questions an individual should ask themselves or a loved one if they suspect domestic violence. If you or someone you know can answer “yes” to the questions listed below, the best thing for you to do is to seek help immediately. Your risk is increased every time you respond with a “yes.” • Does your partner keep you away from friends and family? • Do you feel like you constantly have to watch what you say because of how your partner might react? • Do you believe the abuse is your fault? • Do you believe that every time you get beaten is the “last” time? • Do you lie about how or why you are injured? • Do you believe being pushed or shoved is not domestic violence? • Has your partner destroyed your belongings? • Has your partner ever used or threatened you with a weapon? • Has your partner accused you of infidelity with no true justification? • Has your partner threatened to have your children "taken away" or removed from the home? • Has your partner been violent with your children or used methods of discipline you felt were unreasonable or excessive? • Has your partner acted violently towards anyone who has tried to stop him or her from abusing you or intervene? • Has your partner ever told you that violence is your fault or is caused by your actions? • Has your partner ever deprived you of sleep or food? • Has your partner ever forced you to perform any sexual act against your will? • Has your partner ever prevented you from seeking medical attention for injuries they caused? • Has your partner ever been extremely remorseful after a violent
incident promising you it will never happen again? There are several places in MiamiDade County and throughout the entire State of Florida where people can go to learn more about domestic violence or to get help. For 24-hour assistance call any one of the following local telephone numbers: • Police Emergency, DIAL 9-1-1; • Domestic Violence Hotline, (305) 349-5888 • Domestic Violence Centers/ Shelters, Safespace North (305) 7582546 or Safespace South, (305) 2474249; • Switchboard of Miami, (305) 3584357; • Jackson Memorial Hospital, Rape Treatment Center, (305) 585-7273; • Child, Elderly & Disabled Abuse, (800) 96-ABUSE; and • State Attorney’s Office Crime Victim Helpline, (305) 545-4357. The Florida Department of Children and Families advises that if you or someone you know is involved in a violent domestic relationship you should:
• Give someone you trust a spare set of keys, a set of clothes, important papers such as passports, birth certificates, social security cards, prescriptions and money; • Develop an escape plan, including the safest time to get away; • Know where you can go for help before leaving; • Tell someone what is happening to you; • Keep an emergency list of numbers of people and agencies you can call; • Tell your children what a safe place would be for them – a room with a lock or a neighbor’s house where they can go for help, and reassure them their job is to stay safe, not protect you; • Arrange a signal with a neighbor. Domestic violence knows no boundaries. It is a crime that affects all cultures, races, and genders regardless of sexual orientation. To learn more about domestic violence call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1(800) 500-1119.
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December 2009
•• EDUCATON ••
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Miami Gardens Junior Council Visits Washington, D.C. for Congressional Black Caucus Week The Miami Gardens Junior Council embarked upon an unforgettable educational excursion to Washington D.C. for the 2009 Congressional Black Caucus week in September. It was a truly an unforgettable experience for each and every one of the young Miami Gardens city leaders. The Council, composed of Student Government Association (SGA) leaders from Miami Carol City and Norland Senior High Schools shared laughs, ideas, and inspiring moments throughout the remarkable journey. The Council visited many Washington DC historical landmarks including the United States Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, Lincoln Square, the Library of Congress, the World War II Memorial and even caught a glimpse of the White House. The group observed the passing of bills during live sessions of both the House of Representatives and Senate, a privilege that most Americans never experience. The Council members also had the once in a lifetime opportunity to view the swearing in of Paul Kirk, Jr. the replacement for the late Senator Ted Kennedy with Vice President Joe Biden presiding. While on Capitol Hill, Miami Gardens Assistant Junior Media Specialist Radhika Thompson observed several senators and congressman including Senators John McCain, John Kerry and President Obama’s senate replacement, Roland Burris. In addition to politics and policy making, the Junior Council members visited the breath-taking John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, where they enjoyed the comedic play Sheer Madness. Junior Council member, Jonathan Moses stated “We had so many memorable experiences as a Junior Council! It was the perfect launch pad for continuing our duty of finding solutions for the problems facing young people within the Miami Gardens community. ” The Congressional Black Caucus event is an annual meeting for all of United States of America’s prominent
minority community, and national leaders. Members of the Junior Council enjoyed personal time with the Reverend Jesse Jackson, Ms. Sheryl Lee Ralph, reporter Roland Martin, Congressman Kendrick Meek, Mayor Shirley Gibson and school board representative Wilbert T. Holloway. Graduating seniors on the Council had an opportunity to get an in depth look at what matriculation from high school to college looks like with a visit to the Howard University campus. The tour helped council members gain valuable information about college life in general and a tour of Howard University campus. One of the most memorable highlights of the entire Congressional Black Caucus Week experience occurred while sitting in the congressional classroom, when the group had the privilege of taking in wisdom shared by the Honorable Carrie Meek, former congresswoman and mother of US Congressman and Senate candidate, Kendrick Meek. Since the inception of the Miami Gardens Junior Council and especially throughout this four day odyssey, the two rival schools set their differences aside and became friends and colleagues working to make positive change. Every member of the Miami Gardens Junior Council wishes to express our sincere gratitude to the Miami Gardens City Council, Mayor Gibson and all of the sponsors for allowing us to experience a truly incredible, life changing event. A very special thanks also goes out to our chaperones and Councilwoman Barbara Watson. As the Junior Council, we assure our families, our neighbors and our community atlarge that we represented the City of Miami Gardens in a manner that represented each and every one of you in a most positive way. We pledge to continue to make you all proud. We thank our entire community for supporting us in this and in our future endeavors as members of the Junior Council.
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December 2009
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•• PUBLIC SAFETY ••
Crime Prevention Tips for the Holidays
The Holidays are upon us. We have saved all year long and now it’s time to buy those special gifts for family, friends and loved ones. We patiently drove through congested traffic, parked a mile from the mall, waited in long cash register lines, and finally have our reward – a carload of presents. The trunk is already full of gifts, so we put the overflow in the back seat; but we still have one more stop to make. Happy ending? Not quite. A small percentage of our neighbors believe stealing is better than paying for what they want, and what they want is what you just paid your hard earned money for. Their idea of window shopping is looking in your car window to see what they can take. The City of Miami Gardens Police Department wants you to have a safe and happy Holiday season. In order for that to happen, they are asking that you read, memorize and follow these simple rules: • Stay ALERT and be AWARE of your surroundings. • Always park in well lit areas. • Minimize the number of valuables left in your vehicle and keep all valuables, especially electronics, gifts and other “thief magnets” out of sight. • Don’t overburden yourself with packages while shopping. Make several trips to the mall if necessary. • There is safety in numbers. Shop with a buddy. • Before heading back to your vehicle, take your keys out and have them ready when you return to your vehicle. • Do not leave your car unattended with the motor running or with the keys in the
ignition, even for a short time to do a quick errand or pay for fuel. • Do not use your cell phone while walking through parking lots and streets. It is a distraction that makes you vulnerable to robbers. Besides, your cell phone itself is a tempting target. • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. • If you carry a purse keep it close to your body. After the gifts are opened, don’t pile empty gift boxes from your new computer, DVD player, or stereo receiver on the street for trash pick-up. Burglars appreciate knowing that you have expensive gifts inside for them to steal. Break the boxes down or cut them up before discarding them. Additional tips for making your home safer: • Get to know your neighbors – Become an owner of your community. If we know our neighbors, we know who belongs in our neighborhoods. Exchange phone numbers, e-mail addresses and other contact information. Don’t be shy, talk to the people who live around you. • Own your neighborhood – Report street lights out or overgrown vacant houses. Watch out for people who are acting suspiciously and notify the police immediately. Let your neighbors know so they can be on the lookout too. Call police when kids are out and about when they should be in school. • Be a witness – Help the police help you. Step forward and report what you see. Your information is extremely valued. All too often our communities are full of good people who don’t get involved. • Maintain your property – Trimmed trees and bushes makes it harder for someone to hide when they are up to no good. Besides, this gives the appearance that somebody is almost always at home. • Don’t be an easy target – Lock your doors and windows and close the shades or blinds so thieves can’t see what you have. • Put things away – Leaving unattended items lying around attracts the attention of someone looking for things to steal. • Get to know your local police officer – When you see an officer driving by stop him or her and say hello. Police officers can often give you critical advice on protecting your home and neighborhood. From the City of Miami Gardens to you and yours… have a wonderful and safe Holiday season.
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Detective Joseph Zellner Honored for Outstanding Service and Professionalism On September 28th, Miami Gardens Police Department (MGPD), Detective Joseph Zellner was assigned to investigate a homicide that took place at the intersection of NW 41st Avenue and 207th Street after a body was found on the side of the road. There were no witnesses and inclement weather hindered the initial investigation. During the investigation, Detective Zellner learned that the victim was picked up at his home by an unknown acquaintance and drove to the area where the body was discovered. As the investigation progressed, leads were obtained and pursued; and witnesses were identified, located and interviewed revealing vital information which ultimately led to the identification of the shooter. On October 6th an arrest warrant was issued for the person responsible for this horrific crime. During the course of this homicide, Detective Zellner was instructed to prepare to testify in another murder trial,
the first ever resulting from a MGPD investigation. This murder occurred on March 7th. Two arrests in that case were made in Jacksonville, and the trial was set for October 5th. Since this was the very first homicide trial for MGPD, it was imperative that all witnesses were well prepared and composed. Detective Zellner rose to the challenge of not only testifying at the 1st murder trial while simultaneously working on another extremely difficult homicide case. He solved the September 28, homicide case and participated in the March 7, murder trial as a key witness for the prosecution, resulting in a guilty verdict. Detective Zellnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unselfish and outstanding performance in both cases is reflective of his service commitment to our community. His dedication to the MGPD and professional demeanor in working on difficult tasks is outstanding. He is an asset to the MGPD and is well deserving of the recognition as Officer of the Month for October 2009.
December 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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Miami Gardens Police Department Launches Community Enrichment Team On November 2nd, the Miami Gardens Police Department officially established operations of its Community Enrichment Team (CET). CET Officers are responsible for developing proactive methods for addressing the immediate conditions that create public safety issues such as crime, public nuisance, social disorder and fear of crime. They are also charged with establishing partnerships with residents and developing problem-solving techniques, to alleviate community concerns and foster a sense of well-being and improving residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; feeling of safety and security. CET Officers coordinate their efforts with the Code Enforcement, Criminal Investigations and Operations Divisions to address violations of city ordinances, and local, state and federal laws within the City of Miami Gardens. CET Officers will be detailed to twelve specified duties in targeted neighborhoods or areas for long term assignments. Geographic deployment plans will help enhance service to the community and facilitate increased contact between police officers and citizens, in order to establish a strong relationship and mutual respect and accountability. CET Officers will provide a variety of services with primary focus on of nuisance abatement, community liaison, and problem solving. As the program expands, they will also be responsible for patrol and enforcement activities in their assigned areas of responsibility, including conduct investigative followup of property crimes such as burglaries, larcenies and other crimes or quality-of-life issues. The goal of assigning Community Enrichment Team is to improve the quality of life in the City of Miami Gardens by establishing partnerships between police officers and residents and aggressively addressing problems in order to seek long term solutions. To
ensure the programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success, the Community Oriented Policing (COP) concept will be used throughout the entire organization, including recruitment, hiring, selection and the retention of law enforcement staff. This new policy applies to current officers, civilian staff and volunteers as well. This form of community policing will allow the Department to actively work with residents and community leaders to understand and address the issues that ultimately lead to crime in our City and take preventative measures to stem the spread of criminal activity before it begins. Officers assigned to the CET were selected based on their ability to demonstrate the characteristics that complement the ideology of the Community Policing Concept. All CET officers and supervisors have completed thirty hours of training in all aspects of Community Policing concepts and internal methods of gathering intelligence and information. This training includes mastering the ability to identify and correct conditions that could potentially lead to the commission of a crime, raise public awareness and engage the community in finding solutions to common problems. The goal is to make the Community Policing Concept (CPC) part of the standard method of operation for the Miami Gardens Police Department by applying fundamental CPC principles on a regular basis and maintaining a professional level of training for all officers. By establishing trust between police officers and the community, it is expected that the Community Enrichment Team will result in a significant decrease in crime in the City of Miami Gardens. The Miami Gardens Police Department will actively seek solutions to problems within our community by partnering with the community to improve the quality of life in the City , and ultimately create an enhanced level of safety and comfort for all.
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The new City of Miami Gardens Safety Identification Program (MGSIP) was made available to all residents in the City of Miami Gardens in November. The program is sponsored by the School Crossing Guard Division and is intended to provide safety information to protect our children, young adults, and senior citizens. MGSIP is a safety identification kit which will be used to aid law enforcement and medical professionals, and parents with a speedy response in the event that an elderly parent, child or other love ones ever become missing. Parents and caregivers can get safety identification kits for their children up to the age of seventeen. The ID Kit allows parents to collect specific information by easily recording the physical characteristics and fingerprints of their
children on identification cards and a CD ROM which is kept at home. The entire process of recording important information takes only ten minutes. The ID Kit will provide authorities with vital information to assist in their efforts to locate a missing person. This personalized identification service is also provided for young adults and seniors as well. “The City of Miami Gardens is happy to provide this service to local schools, daycare centers, churches, and other organizations upon request,” state Cherise Asberry, School Crossing Guard Superintendent, City of Miami Gardens. For more information about the MGSIP or to request a free ID Kit visit <www.miamigardens-fl.gov> or call the School Crossing Guard Division at (305) 622-8060.
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•• Business ••
What’s in a Brand?
BY ANTRANETTE PIERRE Do you catch yourself singing a catchy tune that you heard on a commercial while watching television? Have you ever described a product by its company name rather than by the product itself? You know— saying Coke instead of cola, Ziploc bag rather than plastic storage bag, or Tupperware when referring to a plastic food storage container? Well, my friend, you, like millions of others are a victim of branding. A brand is a name, logo, motto or tag line that clearly identifies a product and then links that product or service to the manufacturer. According to Yaro Starak, an Australian businessman, and creator of Entrepreneurs-Journey.com, “When you establish a brand perception that is emotionally stimulating in a positive way, you
have a very powerful advantage. You don’t have to compete on price, and assuming your product is at least adequate in quality, you will make more sales, even more sales than better products because you have a stronger brand.” The City of the Miami Gardens is undergoing its very own form of branding. The City’s brand print will be unique to Miami Gardens and attach a distinct characterization to our wonderful City. The brand new City of Miami Gardens’ official logo and tagline will be unveiled for all to see at the 5th Annual Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival. In addition to cost savings and increased revenue, a major advantage of branding our City will be the increased exposure. Think about your own business and how this affects you. How far does your current marketing plan reach? Is your product or service recognized within a five, ten or twenty mile radius of your primary business location? The City of Miami Gardens covers an area of approximately 20 square miles and has a population of almost 110,000 people. This means that your business has a huge potential market to establish your brand, and market your goods and services that all too often goes untapped. Branding helps spread the word and get your business the recognition that it needs to survive. In today’s market, it is imperative to establish customer loyalty. Without it, you will not be able to develop a base of reliable return business, the backbone on which your business either grows tall and straight with strong sales or is crippled by faltering sales. Creating a brand goes a long way toward helping customers to remember you over your competitors when considering a return visit or referring others.
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December 2009
December 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
City of Miami Gardens Welcomes Shellie Ransom Shellie Ransom recently joined the City of Miami Gardens family as the Director of the Building Services Division, and Chief Building Official. She has the distinct honor of being the first African-American female to hold the post of Building Official in the entire State of Florida. Ms. Ransom directs a staff of professional and technical workers responsible for plans examination, permitting, licensing, and preparation and maintenance of building records and reports. She also serves as a technical resource for field inspectors involved in interpreting Florida Building Codes and making final determinations of their applications to various building projects. Prior to joining the City of Miami Gardens Building Services Division, Ms. Ransom served as Renovation Services Section Manager with Miami - Dade County General Service Administration (GSA). In that capacity, she successfully supervised a staff of 80 carpenters, electricians, refrigeration mechanics, plumbers, and painters. Ms. Ransom was the first African-American Female Building
Inspector employed by the Miami-Dade County Building Department in 2001 and was eventually appointed Building Code Officer (BCO) with the Miami-Dade Building Code Compliance Office. As BCO, Ms. Ransom developed standard processes for revising, deleting, and proposing text for the Florida Building Code HVHZ and received and reviewed proposals and comments regarding code changes. She accompanied unincorporated and municipal building inspectors and plan examiners to building sites to ensure the appropriate application of Florida Building Codes were being followed. She holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management. In addition to being a Certified Building Official, Ms. Ransom is a Florida State licensed Building Inspector, Plans Examiner, and Certified General Contractor. She is also certified as an LEED® AP in Green Building Technology.
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December 2009
•• Leadership on the Move ••
City Selects Sharon P. Ragoonan as Director of Building and Code Compliance
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relations between residents and city government by organizing and executing interactive events in each community throughout the city. Active in her community, Ms. Ragoonan has served as the Board Chair for the North Dade YMCA, Director of the MiamiDade Lion’s Club, and the Board Chair and President of the Jasmine Lakes I Condominium Association. In addition, deeply concerned about the level of individual debt in today’s society, Ms. Ragoonan and a business partner recently launched a national financial literacy campaign known as “Generation Debt Free.” Ms. Ragoonan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Florida International University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Florida Atlantic University. She was also recognized by the Governor’s Mentoring Initiative and was a recent participant in the prestigious National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) mentor program.
December 2009
COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM
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New Program for Black Breast Cancer Patients and Survivors Unveiled in North Miami On a crisp fall afternoon, church staffers and volunteers are buzzing with activity for the upcoming holiday season at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in Carol City. There are clothing and food drives to manage, festivities that require decoration, children’s rehearsals, and regular weekly prayer and worship services to attend. But across the freshly manicured lawns, inside the old church building, a nurturing stillness softens the hectic pace of the season. Only the slow, quiet breaths of this group of new breast cancer survivors can be heard under the soothing voice of Nicole Ennis Whitehead, Ph.D., affectionately known as “Dr. Nicky.” Dr. Whitehead, a clinical psychologist at the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, leads the women through a guided meditation filled with images of light and feelings of joy. Her footsteps around the room are gentle and confident. Enter Dina DuMercy, Pharm.D., a clinical oncology pharmacist who developed the cancer education program for patients at Jackson Memorial Hospital. With bright eyes twinkling behind blackrimmed reading glasses and the warmest of smiles, “Dr. Dina” is a picture of knowledge and empowerment. Today, these newly recovering breast cancer patients – whose names are confidential – will be treated to some honest talk about the feelings associated with their illness. They will leave behind their busy lives as employees, mothers, grandmothers, wives, and daughters for these two special hours each week in order to better care for themselves, to learn, to grow, to heal, to be heard, and to support each other in their journeys toward survival. Afterwards, they’ll share a tasty meal together. And they also receive up to $500 compensation for their full partic-
ipation in the program. Dr. Dina and Dr. Nicky are a part of a highly effective team of professionals who have never forgotten their goal of making a difference in our community. The ground-breaking program they are leading is called Project CARE. It was designed specifically to evaluate the effects of stress management and education in black breast cancer survivors. “The program helps the women Cope, Adapt, Renew and Empower themselves and each other. We emphasize the CARE,”] said Suzanne Lechner, Ph. D., assistant professor of psychiatry and psychology at the University of Miami, who was awarded the 5-year, $3 million dollar grant from the National Institutes of Health to establish the program. Project CARE was the brain child of Dr. Lechner, in conjunction with Dr. Whitehead, and Erin Kobetz, Ph. D., MPH, an epidemiologist at the University of Miami who specializes in community-based cancer research and Mike Antoni, Ph.D., an internationally recognized leader in stress management research. Project CARE is ground-breaking in its approach for two main reasons. First, this program was specifically designed for black breast cancer survivors, and is limited to only black women. This is the first stress management program to undertake the challenge of developing a program that meets although the effects of stress have been studied extensively on the recovery rates of breast cancer survivors, no study has ever specifically looked at addressing the unique concerns of black breast cancer patients through an education and behavior modification program. Health care disparities are obvious in our local community, and this program aims to help women become empowered during breast cancer survivorship. “This point is important to emphasize,
because although black women tend to have a lower rate of breast cancer, their likelihood of dying from breast cancer is higher than women of most other ethnicities,” said Dr. Whitehead. The other ground-breaking goal of Project CARE is to determine whether a successful stress-management program can be provided in partnership with community organizations like black churches and other religious, neighborhood, and support groups. “Teaching outside of the hospital setting, in the communities where women return home to a comfortable, safe place makes a world of difference,” Dr. DuMercy says. Key aspects of the program are: Care (health and wellness education), Confidentiality (anonymity and non-disclosure of participant identity), and
Compensation (up to $500 per participant). The Project CARE team invites readers to do their part in making a difference in the lives of black women by spreading the word about this opportunity and encouraging women who are nearing the end of treatment for breast cancer or who have completed surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy within the past 6 months to join Project CARE. Participants must be over the age of 21, able to speak, read, and write English fluently, and have no previous diagnoses of cancer. Project CARE is currently enrolling eligible patients for February and April group sessions. For more information, call the Project CARE office at 305-24383672440.
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