Miami Gardens 10.2011 by Community Newspapers

Community Newspapers CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1958

OCTOBER 3, 2011

INSIDE THIS

ISSUE THE ARCH OF INDUSTRY LANDMARK

• • • • • • • • • MEET COACH DARIUS LAWSHEA

• • • • • • • • • BULLYING PREVENTION

• • • • • • • • • CALENDAR OF EVENTS

• • • • • • • • •

Miami Gardens

VOL. 29 NO. 40

The City Of Miami Gardens Is Proving The Neighborhood Stabilization Program To Be Successful: Revitalizing Neighborhoods And Making Home Ownership A Reality The City of Miami Gardens has made homeownership a reality for over 25 families so far through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP). The City, using funds received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Neighborhood Stabilization Program, has acquired and redeveloped foreclosed properties that might otherwise have remained abandoned and in some cases an eyesore to the rest of the neighborhood. The original allocation of these NSP funds, $6,866,119.02, now referred to as NSP1, was authorized under Title III of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008. Then in 2010, the City received a second allocation of $1,940,337.00 as a result of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, referred to as NSP3. Ultimately, the goal of the NSP is to return vacant, foreclosed or abandoned residential properties to owner occupancy as quickly as possible; revitalizing neighborhoods through the rehabilitation, redevelopment and reuse of these vacant properties; and providing affordable homeownership within the City. Under the NSP1, the City of Miami Gardens has purchased over 65 vacant, foreclosed single family properties, and has rehabilitated and redeveloped 37 of those properties thus far. In addition, the City has demolished over 10 properties previously deemed unsafe and blighted with the intent to redevelop new single family homes on those parcels. Most importantly, the City has sold over 25 homes and has more than 12 other homes under contract to qualified first time homebuyers. Each homebuyer receives up to $55,000 in financial assistance from the City for their down payment and closing costs. The amount each buyer receives is based on their actual need according to the income and household size to ensure affordable homeownership. ”I am very proud to see the expressed intent and purpose of this national program being successfully carried out in the City of Miami

Gardens. Being a relatively new city (incorporated 8 years ago), our staff takes great pride in being in the top 16% in the country in terms of benchmarked program accomplishments. To date, the City has actually exceeded the number of foreclosed properties it was required to purchase. But we all realize there is still much more work to be done,” says Daniel A. Rosemond, Assistant City Manager/Community Development Director for the City of Miami Gardens. All homes are rehabilitated to the meet current building codes and receive energy efficient and water conservation improvements. They are strategically priced to achieve the highest market value possible while remaining affordable. The City does not make any profit from the sales, as this is prohibited by the federal regulations. Sales proceeds received are re-invested in the program. To buy one of the City’s NSP homes: • Individual or family’s income cannot exceed 120% of the area median income. • The buyer must be able to qualify for a mortgage loan. • The buyer must occupy the home as their primary residence.

2011 AREA MEDIAN INCOME Household Size

120% of AMI

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

$ 57,960 $ 66,240 $ 74,520 $ 82,800 $ 89,520 $ 96,120 $102,720 $109,320

If you think you meet the eligibility criteria described above and are interested in purchasing a home in Miami Gardens, please visit the City website: www.miamigardens-fl.gov and look for the “NSP Homes for Sale” link under the Latest News Section or contact the Department of Community Development at (305) 622-8041.

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•• COMMUNITY NEWS •• Another First for the City of Miami Gardens: Historic Designation of the Arch On August 17, 2011 the Miami-Dade County Historic Preservation Board designated the “Arch of Industry” at the Sunshine State International Park as a Local Historic Structure. Completed in 1964, our Arch was finished before its inspiration, the Gateway Arch of St. Louis! South Florida’s industrial pioneer William “Bill” C. Webb developed the industrial park and built the Arch as “. . . a fresh approach to industrial planning . . . a bold new concept . . . Florida’s showcase of industry . . .” His grandson, William “Bill” C. Webb III exclaimed, “That's great news! I only wish my grandfather could have still been with us to enjoy this honor.” Bill Webb III currently manages the park. To quote Mayor Shirley Gibson, “It is wonderful! Having the arch designated as the first historical landmark in the city is wonderful, and we are certainly happy to have this prestigious designation.” The Arch is already a part of the City’s identity, having been incorporated into the City’s Seal by Dr. Danny O. Crew, City Manager. The Arch exemplifies Miami Modern or MiMo architecture

(mid-century modernism). The post-World War II MiMo style has become recognized for its unique shapes, South Florida influence, optimistic style and high quality. In the near future, the City will obtain a historic marker for the site as well as apply for National Historic Designation.

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(USPS 699-310) (ISSN 1060-782) 6796 S.W. 62 Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143 • Phone (305) 669-7355, Fax (305) 662-6980 PUBLISHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grant Miller EXECUTIVE EDITOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Michael Miller SALES MANAGER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Walter White WRITERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ron Beasley, Robert Hamilton, Gary Alan Ruse, Lee Stephen, Al Sunshine, Richard Yager ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Albie Barnes, Roberta Bergman, Beatriz Brandfon, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Enrique Chau, Sharon Christian, Lori Cohen, Cecile Fanfani, Dianne Maddox, Denzil Miles,m Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Diane Sedona Schiller, Georgia Tait, Walter Whitem LEGAL ADVERTISING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Enrique Chau PROOF DEPARTMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isabel Vavrek PRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isabel Ortega, Vera Salom, Marie Scheer, Isabel Vavrek PUBLISHER EMERITUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ron Miller POSTAL INFORMATION: Community Newspapers is published by Your Hometown Newspaper, Inc. 6796 SW 62 Ave., S. Miami, FL 33143. Periodicals Postage Paid in Miami, Florida, and additional mailing offices. Published weekly. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Community Newspapers, P.O. Box 43-1970, South Miami, FL 33143. Subscription rates: $27.50 a year. GENERAL PROVISIONS: Every issue of Community Newspapers is fully copyrighted, and all property rights, including advertisements produced by Community Newspapers. Artwork and/or typography furnished or arranged for/by us, shall be the property of Community Newspapers. No such ad or any art thereof may be reproduced without the prior consent of Community Newspapers. Editorial e-mail: cneditor@gate.net • www.communitynewspapers.com

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City of Miami Gardens Employees Make Health Their Wealth! This City hosted its annual Employee Passport to Health Fair at its Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex on September 21, 2011. The goal of the health fair was to increase personal health awareness and emphasize preventive medicine/activities are key to employees’ overall well-being. Certain unhealthy individual behavior and lifestyle choices increase risk factors for health problems, and influence the development and course of chronic health conditions. Unhealthy employees translate to increased medical cost for the City and its employees as well as low productivity and absenteeism. During the Health Fair, employees had the opportunity to receive screenings for glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure and

vision along with voluntary HIV/AIDS testing. Health professionals were also on hand to conduct body mass index, spinal assessments, administer flu shoots, and give free massages to employees. Information was also distributed on nutrition, portion control, dental care, proper hand washing methods, genetics, mental health awareness, stress management and physical fitness. If employees participated in a number of activities identified as “interactive”, they were offered a free breakfast or lunch and had a chance to participate in a raffle. Healthy choices of food and drinks included fresh fruit, yogurt, raisins, nuts, salad, hearty sandwiches, 100% juices, water, granola bars, popcorn and pretzels. Raffle prizes included spa certificates, mountain bikes, and gym membership to the B.T. Ferguson Recreation Complex, as well as gym bags and exercise equipment. The City’s “benefit” vendors donated the medical providers’ services and some of the raffle prizes for the employees. This was the second year the City hosted the Health Fair for its employees. Employees have been very receptive to the health fairs. ”You and your staff did a great job on the event. I thought your vendors were excellent. Keep up the excel-

lent work.” commented Lillie Q. Odom, Community Outreach Specialist, City of Miami Gardens. “I did not attend the Health Fair last year, but I am so glad that I attended this year. I took all the tests, did the accident simulator and learned so much about my health. Thank you again, I look forward for next year!! Great job!!,” said Claudia Robinson, City of Miami Gardens Police Department. Human Resources/Risk Director, Taren Kinglee, states “the health screenings offered at the fair gives the City an opportunity to take care of its most valued resource: the employees! It’s an opportunity to reach out to employees and bring the resources and information to those employ-

ees who are reluctant to seek out health related information on their own or to seek medical care”. According to Ms. Kinglee, “The City’s approach to help mitigate health care cost for the City and its employees is centered-around education, education and more education and the old adage: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” The City will continue on its journey to educate employees on health and wellness by offering mammogram screening to employees in the month of October and promoting health and safety in the employee newsletter, S.T.A.R. (Service, Teamwork, Achievement, and Recognition).

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â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ PUBLIC WORKS â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ A Message from Public Works Director, Tom Ruiz:

Keep Your Septic Tank Running Clean Many residents living in the city of Miami Gardens have a septic tank on their property. Understanding what a septic tank system is all about and how to maintain it will ensure protecting your investment as well as potentially help you save thousands of dollars in repairs. Since the septic system is underground, many people do not know that it is there or as the saying goes, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Out of sight, out of mindâ&#x20AC;?. It is a small scale sewage treatment system because there are no connections to municipal sanitary sewers in the area. A typical system has four major components: a pipe where house sewage is taken away from the house, a septic tank, a drainfield and the surrounding area of the ground. A main pipe transfers the entire house sewer to include toilets, baths, sinks, showers, etc. to a septic tank. The septic tank is underground and watersealed container where the waste is held allows the solids to settle to the bottom and form sludge. (See figures below)

Bacteria naturally exist in all septic tanks. It comes from the organic waste that is flushed into the tank. These bacteria partially digest the solids and greases. The solids in the form of sludge settle on the bottom of the tank. These undigested solids left on the bottom of the septic tank must be pumped out on a regular basis. This pumping prevents solids from being carried into the drainfield and preserves the effective capacity of the tank. The septic system requires inspections and maintenance so that you can protect your investment. When you consider the cost of replacing the entire system, maintenance gives the septic system long life. Inspection and maintenance is very important. You need to hire a professional/licensed/contractor every 3 years to inspect the system. Your plumbing contractor should inspect for leaks and look at the scum and sludge layers in your septic tank. If the bottom of the scum layer is within 6 inches of the bottom of the outlet tee or the top of the sludge layer is within 12 inches of the outlet tee, your tank needs to be pumped. Generally, septic tanks need to be pumped every 3 to 5 years which depends on the usage.

City of Miami Gardens Community Newspaper EDITOR-AT-LARGE Ula Zucker-Williams â&#x20AC;˘ MANAGING EDITOR Anthony Jackson EDITOR Stephanie Saenz â&#x20AC;˘ CALENDAR EDITOR Tamilla Mullings â&#x20AC;˘

WRITERS Antranette Pierre, Janey Tate, Cynthia Roby CONTRIBUTORS Jay Marder, Tom Ruiz, Taren Kinglee, Chris Williams, Councilwoman Lisa C. Davis. If you have news or events that you would like to submit for consideration to be published in the Miami Gardens Community Newspaper, please email ssaenz@miamigardens-fl.gov or call the Events & Media Department at (305)622-8000 ext 2482.

Using water efficiently means that less water will enter your system. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a single-family home uses an average of 70 gallons of water per person per day (use faucet aerators and high-efficiency showerheads helps reduce water use). Dripping faucets waste some 2,000 gallons of water each year. Leaky toilets waste as much as 200 gallons per day. To check for toilet leaks, add five drops of liquid food coloring to the toilet tank before going to bed. If you see the dye in the toilet in the morning, the tanks is leaking and repair as needed. What you flush can clog and damage your septic tanks, for example, dental floss, feminine hygiene products, condoms, diapers, cotton swabs, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, cat litter, paper towels and other kitchen and bathroom items. Other items not to be used are latex paint, pesticides, or other hazardous chemicals. Per the EPA, inadequately treated sewage from septic systems can be a cause of groundwater contamination. It poses a significant threat to drinking water and human health because it can contaminate drinking water wells and cause diseases and infections in people (i.e. gastrointestinal illness, cholera, hepatitis, and Typhoid) and animals. Improperly treated sewage that contaminates nearby surface waters also increases the chance of swimmers contracting a variety of infectious diseases. These range from eye and ear infections to acute gastrointestinal illness and diseases like hepatitis. What are the septic tank problems that you can encounter? The first main problem is back-up in the sewer line into the house (overflowing toilet, tub/shower, sinks,

etc.). If your toilet or other plumbing fixtures are slow to drain, the problem may be related to problems with the septic system. The second one is bad septic tank odors (caused by blocked pipes in and out of the tank) with a possible pool or soggy/mushy area in the yard around the drainfield. Tips for Maintaining Your Septic System â&#x20AC;˘ Do not put too much water into the septic system; â&#x20AC;˘ Do not add materials other than domestic wastewater. â&#x20AC;˘ Restrict the use of your garbage disposal. â&#x20AC;˘ Do not pour grease or cooking oils down the sink drain. â&#x20AC;˘ Make a diagram showing the location of your tank drainfield and repair area. â&#x20AC;˘ Periodically have the solids pumped out of the septic tank. â&#x20AC;˘ Maintain adequate vegetative cover over the drainfield. â&#x20AC;˘ Keep surface waters away from the tank and drainfield. â&#x20AC;˘ Keep automobiles and heavy equipment off the system. â&#x20AC;˘ Do not plan any building additions, pools, driveways, or other construction work near the septic system or the repair area. A septic system is an efficient, inexpensive, and convenient method for treating and disposing of household wastewater. Be conscience of what goes down the drain so that the septic system will continue to give you years of service. Lastly, proper inspections and maintenance should provide your system with years of trouble-free, low-cost service.

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Miami Gardens Calendar of Events

October 2011 OCTOBER 5 •Zoning Meeting 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers @ 7pm

OCTOBER 12 •City Council Meeting 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Miami Gardens, FL Council Chambers @ 7pm

OCTOBER 10 COLUMBUS DAY

OCTOBER 16 •Progressive Young Adults Committee 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 City Hall Conference Room @ 3pm-5pm OCTOBER 17 •Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) Police Department 1020 NW 163 Drive Miami Gardens, FL @ 7pm

MIAMI GARDENS OFFICES CLOSED OCTOBER 11 •Miami Gardens Excellence in Education Council 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers @6:00 p.m.

•Commission for Women Meeting 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Conference Room @6:30 pm - 8:30 pm OCTOBER 20 •Nuisance Abatement Board 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers@ 5pm •Parks & Rec. Advisory 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 City Hall Conference Room Miami Gardens, FL @6:30 pm

OCTOBER 18 •Caribbean Affairs Advisory 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers @ 6pm

OCTOBER 26 •Special Master Hearing Code Cases 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Miami Gardens, FL Council Chambers @ 9am-3pm

OCTOBER 19 •Elderly Affairs Advisory 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Council Chambers@ 3:00pm-4:30pm

•City Council Meeting 1515 NW 167 Street, bldg. 5-200 Miami Gardens, FL Council Chambers @ 7pm

City of Miami Gardens Police Department Use the se numb ers to contact us Operations Division Major Anthony Chapman Patrol Division

305-474-1406 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 Alan Mandelbloom Captain Rafael Suarez Captain Frank Trujillo Auto Theft/Pawn Unit CST/Narcotics Unit

305-474-1407 305-474-1430 305-474-1418 305-474-1428 305-474-1427

Support Division Major Steve List Captain Athena Skellion Captain Alfred Lewers Jr Communications Center Court Liaison Off Duty Police Employment Records Unit

305-474-1408 305-474-1380 305-474-1405 305-474-MGPD (6473) 305-474-1412 305-474-1412 305-474-1413

Professional Standards/Training Unit Background Investigations 305-622-8059 Captain Marilyn Gongalez 305-622-8059 Training Unit 305-622-8059 Non-Emergency Police Communications & Information (305) 474-MGPD (6473)

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City of Miami Gardens Staff Directory Name Julie-Ann Smith Sonja K. Dickens Ronetta Taylor Danny Crew Renee Crichton Daniel Rosemond Vernita Nelson Tasha Codner Sharon Ragoonan Patti Varney Mike Gambino David Motola Taren Kinglee Kara Petty Jay Marder O. Tom Ruiz Pam Thompson Ula Zucker-Williams Matthew Boyd Hilary Marshall Tashek Hamlette

Department E-mail Asst. to Mayor jsmith@miamigardens-fl.gov City Attorney sdickens@miamigardens-fl.gov City Clerk rtaylor@miamigardens-fl.gov City Manager crewd@miamigardens-fl.gov Deputy City Manager rcrichton@miamigardens-fl.gov Asst. City Manager drosemond@miamigardens-fl.gov Asst. City Manager vnelson@miamigardens-fl.gov KMGB Director codner@miamigardens-fl.gov Director. Building & Code sragoonan@miamigardens-fl.gov Finance Director pvarney@miamigardens-fl.gov Floodplain Administrator mgambino@miamigardens-fl.gov Fleet Manager dmotola@miamigardens-fl.gov Human Resources/ Risk Director tkinglee@miamigardens-fl.gov Parks & Recreation Director kpetty@miamigardens-fl.gov Planning & Zoning Director jmarder@miamigardens-fl.gov Public Works Director truiz@miamigardens-fl.gov Procurement Manager pthompson@miamigarders-fl.gov Events and Media Coordinator uzucker@miamigardens-fl.gov Miami Gardens Police Chief Assistant to Council hmarshall@miamigardens-fl.gov (Vice Mayor Campbell, Davis, D. Williams) Assistant to Council thamlette@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 305-622-8018 305-622-8000 Ext. 2780 305-622-8039 305-622-8000 Ext. 2697 305-622-8030 305-622-8080 305-622-8025 305-622-8004 305-622-8000 Ext. 2490 305-622-8035 305-474-1400 305-622-8000 Ext. 2793 305-622-8000 Ext. 2705

City of Miami Gardens Mayor and Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner To contact your Council representatives, call 305-622-8010.

Mayor Shirley Gibson

Vice-Mayor Aaron Campbell Jr. (Seat 1)

Councilwoman Lisa C. Davis (Seat 2)

Councilman AndrĂŠ Williams (Seat 3)

Councilwoman Felicia S. Robinson (Seat 4)

Councilman David Williams, Jr. (Seat 5)

Councilman Oliver G. Gilbert III (Seat 6)

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October 3, 2011

••••• COUNCIL CORNER ••••

October is National Bullying Prevention Month! Councilwoman Lisa C. Davis Wants To Know What You Are Doing To Stop Bullying BY COUNCILWOMAN LISA C. DAVIS October is National Bullying Prevention Month and I am urging everyone to take a s t a n c e against bullying and be actively involved in becoming aware and spreading awareness. Join me on the crusade by wearing an orange ribbon on October 12, 2011, Unity Day and link together with others in the community to send one huge “ORANGE” message that BULLYING WILL NOT BE TOLERATED by anyone. Walk with us on October 12, 2011to show your support and how important this issue is to you. (Visit www.miamigardens-fl.gov to learn more about the walk location and time) The facts about bullying are that: • Nearly 1 in 3 students is involved in bullying. • While school violence as a whole is declining, bullying behaviors have increased by 5%. • 13% of U.S. employees report being bullied • 24% say they have been bullied in the past and an additional • 12% say they have witnessed workplace bullying. Nearly half of all American workers (49%) report that they have been affected by workplace bullying, either being a target themselves or having witnessed abusive behavior against a co-worker. • An estimated 2.1 million older Americans are victims of physical psychological, or other forms of abuse and neglect each year. • Kids who are obese, gay, or have disabilities are up to 63% more likely to be bullied than other children. • Boys are more likely than girls to bully others. • Boys and girls get bullied in different ways. It’s important to recognize the signs. At first glance, many people might think this behavior is easy to define. Their first

image of bullying might be of a physically intimidating boy beating up a smaller classmate. While that can still be considered bullying today, people need to know bullying behaviors can be much more complex and varied than typical stereotype and can affect people of all ages, from school aged children to the elderly. For example, harmful bullying can also occur quietly and undercover, through gossip or on the Internet, causing emotional damage. Although definitions of bullying vary, most agree an act is defined as bullying when the behavior hurts or harms another person physically or emotionally. There are several different forms of bullying. These include: • verbal bullying • social exclusion or isolation • physical bullying • bullying through lies and false rumors • having money or other property taken or damaged • threats or being forced to do things • racial bullying • sexual bullying • cyber bullying (via cell phone or the Internet) • workplace bullying It is possible to divide the different types of bullying into direct and indirect forms. In direct forms, bullying involves relatively open attacks, usually in a faceto-face confrontation. Typical examples of direct bullying include verbal bullying with derogatory comments and nasty names, and physical bullying with hitting, kicking, shoving, and spitting. Theft may be involved. In indirect bullying, the aggressive acts are more concealed and subtle, and it may be more difficult for the bullied person to know who is responsible for the bullying. Typical examples include social isolation—that is, intentionally excluding someone from a group or activity—and spreading lies and nasty rumors. Several forms of cyber bullying may also be considered indirect in the sense that nasty messages are delivered from a distance, not in a face-to-face way, and from anonymous sources via social networking or email. And in some cases, it may be difficult or almost impossible to find out who originally sent the message. Whether it is direct or indirect, bullying is intentional, meaning the act is done willfully, knowingly and deliberately to

hurt someone physically and mentally and the targets have difficulty stopping the behavior directed at them and struggle to defend themselves. Bullying can be circumstantial or chronic. It might be the result of a situation, such as being the new student at school, being different than others, being elderly and perceived as disabled, or it might be behavior that has been directed at the individual for a long period of time. Why do some people bully? Research suggests there are several partly interrelated motives for bullying. People who bully: • Have strong needs for power and (negative) dominance; they seem to enjoy being “in control” and subduing others. • Find satisfaction in causing injury and suffering to other people. This may be at least partly due to the environment at home, which may have caused hostility within the person. • Are often rewarded in some way for their behavior. This could be material or psychological rewards, such as taking money or enjoying the attention, status, and prestige they are granted from other people because of their behavior. • May have some common family characteristics, such as parents who are not very involved in their children’s lives, people who lack warmth and positive involvement. Some parents may not have set clear limits on their children’s aggressive behavior and may have allowed them to act out aggressively toward their siblings and other children. Adults who bully may have been bullied themselves as a child and may come from an abuse home growing up. • Sometimes have parents that use physical punishments and other “powerassertive” methods of child rearing. Adult bullies may have abusive spouses at home or anger management issues. • Are more likely than other people to have seen or been involved in domestic violence. In all probability, they have been exposed or may have exposed themselves to violence in the media and maybe through participation in “power sports” like boxing, kickboxing, and wrestling. It is important to emphasize these are main trends. Not all people who come from families with these characteristics will bully others, and not all people who bully come from these family environments. The peer group may also play an important role in motivating and encour-

aging bullying behavior in certain people. Now that you are aware of what bullying is, the various forms of bullying, and who are the people that bully; it’s time for you to take an active role against bullying. It might not be easy to recognize signs and symptoms of bullying, but armed with the information, it will be easier to recognize the signs and symptoms. So what can you do? “Bully Proof” your community Bullying is not a normal rite of passage. It can have serious consequences. “Teach one reach one” by sharing with others in your community how to prevent bullying. • Understand bullying and explain it to others It is more than physical; it can be done in person or over the phone or computer. • Keep open lines of communication with your neighbors, friends, children coworkers and the elderly in your community. Check in with people and listen and look out for the signs. • Encourage confidence. Teach people in your immediate community about bullying. Give guidance about how to stand up to those who bully if it is safe to do so. • Become a trusted friend, parent, advisor so when someone is being threatened by a bully they can confide in you and discuss the situation as well as options; urge them to seek help through the proper channels. • Be aware what is going on in the neighborhood, in the schools and in the parks. Pay attention. What if you or someone you know is being bullied? When people are involved in bullying, it is important they or their parents are willing to take action. Children and seniors often do not tell their parents or family members that they are being bullied because they are embarrassed or frightened. If you suspect bulling is involved. • Talk with the bullying victim. Focus on them. Express your concern and make it clear that you want to help. • Empathize. Say bullying is wrong, that it is not their fault, and that you are glad they had the courage to share the information with you. • Work together to find solutions. Reassure them the situation can be handled privately.

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••••• COUNCIL CORNER •••• • Document ongoing bullying. Keep a record of all bullying incidents. If it involves cyber-bullying, keep a record of all messages or postings. • Help the person develop strategies and skills for handling bullying. Provide suggestions for ways to respond to bullying, and help the victim gain confidence by rehearsing their responses. • Be persistent. Bullying may not be resolved overnight. • Stay vigilant to other possible problems the victim may be having that may make them vulnerable to bullying. Some of the warning signs may be signs of other serious problems. Share your concerns with an advisor, guardian or family member. Work with Your Child’s School People are often reluctant to report bullying to school officials, their Human Resource office or senior guardian, but bullying may not stop without the assistance of the people who can actually commit to doing something about it. Never be afraid to report the bullying and ask for help to stop the bullying. • Know the school and workplace policies. Ask for a copy or check to see whether or not they have standards in place that will help resolve the situation. • Open the line of communication. Establish a partnership with the people that can help take action against bullying. • Get help from guidance counselors or other school-based health professionals, faith based organizations or other organizations that offer assistance to employees through the workplace. They may be able to help cope with the stress of being bullied. Commit to making the bullying stop. What Not to Do • Never tell anyone to ignore the bullying. Be supportive and gather information about the bullying. Often, trying to ignore bullying allows it to become more persistent. • Do not blame the victim for being bullied. Do not assume a person did something to provoke the bullying.

• Do not encourage harm on the person who is doing the bullying. It can lead to bigger and more violent bullying. Do not contact the person doing the bullying. Leave that to the officials. Do not demand or expect a solution on the spot. Indicate you would like to follow up to determine the best course of action. Most importantly, “ALL” adults in a community have a responsibility to help stop bullying among the community, How can you get involved? • Develop a comprehensive community strategy to address bullying. Assess the bullying in your community. Use the assessment results to set goals and create action steps to stop and prevent bullying. Advocate for appropriate anti-bullying and harassment policies in schools and other institutions. Continually assess the effectiveness of your community's efforts. • Engage a diverse group of caring people and community leaders. Be certain to involve the community at every stage in planning, implementing, and evaluating your bullying prevention efforts. Seek out interested partners from a variety of sources, such as educators, mental health professionals and law enforcement. • Raise community awareness. Don’t expect the entire community to be welli n f o r m e d . Distribute brochures, fact sheets and newsletters throughout your community. Encourage local radio stations, TV broadcasters and newspapers to release public service announcements during prime viewing times. “There is a lot of information to work with, but if you remember anything from this, remember bullying is not limited by age, gender, or education level. It is not a phase and it is not a joke. Bullying can cause lasting harm. That is why I wanted to do this campaign in the month of October to let everyone know that bullying will not be tolerated in Miami Gardens. Our schools are not the only place you can be bullied; it can happen in the parks, playgrounds, workplace, the local hangout, and in your own neighborhoods. We need to let our community know that not only

can they be safe, but they can talk and tell someone if they are being bullied,” say’s Councilwoman Lisa C Davis, Seat 2 City of Miami Gardens. “There are resources available to help. Silence is no longer an acceptable response to bullying. Adults, students, and educators can no longer look away when they see bullying. Ignoring it won’t work. Everyone needs to be empowered with options to respond Most states have laws to address bullying, harassment, and hazing. Some have a coordinator to direct the state's violence

prevention efforts, and some hold activities to highlight those efforts. To view a state's information, click on the state in the map below. http://www.olweus.org/public/laws_florida.page The resources used for this article include: www.stopbullying.gov www.olweus.org www.mediationprocess.org/bullyingfacts.html www.pacer.org/bullying

School is back in session, and so is the unnerving task of driving in school zones. Do you know how to safely drive in school zones? Driving safely in school zones Let's face it, driving in school zones is a task that requires an extraordinary amount of patience. Sounds easy, but during those mornings when you're fifteen minutes late to an important meeting, it is a daunting task. Number one rule is patience, without it, accidents are bound to happen. Tips for driving in school zones 1. DON'T assume anything: children can run across the street at any second, be prepared. 2. Know your surroundings: It's easier to anticipate what will happen next, if you observe where the kids and parents are around you. 3. Obey all laws: Don't travel over 15 miles per hour, and travel slower if there are a lot of children around. 4. Don't get distracted: Put down the coffee, cell phone, and keep both hands on the wheel. Remember! Be careful, attentive, and most important-patient! “Serving Our Community For More Than 20 Years”

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

October 3, 2011

•• COMMUNITY NEWS ••

Lillie Q. Odom, Historian, Activist, Community Leader and Your Neighbor BY JANEY TATE Lillie Queen Odom, the City’s Community Outreach Specialist, is retiring after years of working with the City of Miami Gardens –even before its inception. After more than nine years of service, first as Assistant to Mayor Shirley Gibson and later as Community Service Liaison, Odom realized her work at the City is complete, and she is ready to start a new phase in her life.

“You get to a point where it’s time to move on,” she said. Odom began her career in the community long before the City was incorporated. As a long standing resident and community activist, Odom along with a team of her peers served on the Committee for the Incorporation of the Proposed City of Destiny, which would have made the former area known as unincorporated Miami-Dade County into an incorporated municipality. After a defeat in 1995, where voters rejected the idea of incorporating, Odom and others began to work on the idea again. Through perseverance and faith, the team would eventually meet success and in 2003, the City of Miami Gardens was incorporated. Odom served as Mayor Gibson’s first campaign manager, and after a landslide win, Odom would become one of the City’s first employees, serving as the Administrative Assistant for the City. Odom’s primary task was to “set up” the headquarters for the first city hall location and establish procedures for conduct-

ing city business. Odom’s professional career started way before the thought of creating a city was ever conceived. For many years she worked at Miami-Dade College and Florida Memorial University, serving both institutions as Associate Financial Aid Director. During her free time, she engaged herself in community activities and served on the North Dade Municipal Advisory Committee. With no prior experience working in local politics, she became actively involved with helping residents gain the rights and benefits of being an incorporated city, showing South Florida African Americans could govern themselves properly and build a safe, clean place for its residents to live. Over the course of her tenure, Odom has spearheaded many important projects, events, and advisory groups, including the Elderly Affairs Advisory Committee, Commission for Women, the Intergeneration Fashion Show, an annual community health fair and the Ethnicity Day Luncheon. Odom has had the opportunity to work with so many different groups in the community both young and old, championing for them to receive the best services, amenities and resources. Working with the young people, as she puts it, is what Odom has loved the most about her experience here at Miami Gardens. Odom is most proud of her work with the “Historical Archives of Miami Gardens”; documenting and archiving the history of the City dating back to identifying the families, leaders and businesses who first settled in the area. Odom plans to continue her work on this project even after her retirement and see it through its completion. Odom’s family is happy to see her finally get some rest after 50 years of working, but Odom says that she probably won’t sit still for long. She plans to travel and visit family more often. Odom says she has to stay active or she will get bored easily. Her legacy will stand forever as a testament of who she is. After so many years of dedicated service and hard work of pushing to incorporate the City of Miami Gardens; and the work she’s done thereafter, Lillie Q. Odom will definitely be missed. “It’s just time,” Odom said smiling and reflecting, “I really have enjoyed this to the upmost.”

October 3, 2011

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October 3, 2011

•• FYI ••

Let’s Keep Our Children Safe and Remember L2S! -Learn-to-Swim BTF Rec Complex Pool is Now Offering Water Safety and Swimming Instructions Did you know that drowning is the second leading cause of injury related death for children ages 1 – 14? Did you know that drowning rates are highest for children under 5 years of age? Did you know that in 2010 782 children between age 0 and 14 drowned? The lifeguards at Betty T Ferguson Recreation Complex Pool are trying their hardest to get these statistics down by offering a Learn-2-Swim program. Taught by certified water safety instructors, participants of all ages will learn to be more comfortable in the water. This is a 4 week program, in which the partici-

pant attends 2 days a week for at least 30 minutes and includes water safety training and swim lessons. Groups are split by age and ability with the ultimate goal being to swim the length of the pool. The cost is $30 per session and private lessons are available for an additional fee. When each session is over we hope each participant who “learned 2 swim” will spread the word that the water is not such a scary place! For more information on the Learn-2Swim program at Betty T. Ferguson Recreation Complex Pool please contact Chris Williams at 786-279-1232.

October 3, 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ FYI â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘

Census Update â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Some Interesting Facts Act Your Age! Even though itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been more than a year since the first US Census of the City of Miami Gardens was completed, the Census Bureau continues to release new demographic information. For instance, did you ever wonder about the average age of City residents? Wonder no more. Our median age is 33.5. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a relatively young community compared to Miami-Dade County, whose median age is 37.5, or the State of Florida which is just over 40 years of age. In addition to having a young population, the City is also one of the youngest cities around, barely 8 years old. Housing and Population: In 2000 the City of Miami Gardens had almost 31,000 housing units. Ten years later, that number increased by almost 11% to 34,284 housing units. and our population

increased from 100,809 to 107,167, an increase of 6%. Interestingly enough, the City saw a 4% decrease in household size, at just over 3 people per household. Household Median Income and Labor Force: Did you know that Miami Gardensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; average household income is $41,744? That is almost equal to MiamiDade Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s which is $42,969. The Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s labor force is almost 50,000 persons. Other Demographics: Over 76% of Miami Gardens residents are Black or African-American. About 18% are White and 22% are Hispanic or Latino of any race. Drive! Most Miami Gardens households have one or more vehicles. Almost 18% have three or more vehicles.

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As soon as the Twin Towers collapsed and Wall Street shut down, Rick Tonkinson, a local CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP), started calling every single one of his clients, regardless of account size, to find out how they were dealing with the tragedy. Certain clients were directly impacted like Alan C. who lost his best friend, a fireman. Another client, Richard A., shared that his sister was injured in the Pentagon attack. Yet another client, Joe P., lost his daughter who was an airline stewardess on the airplane that hit the second

tower, another heartbreak. With these many calls came some tearful heart-to-heart conversations that are forever etched in Tonkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memory. Because of the stock marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dismal performances in 2000 and 2001 even before

9/11, Rick Tonkinson had proactively repositioned the accounts, regardless of size, into cash and bond investments. Leap forward to September 11, 2011, and the clients Tonkinson had 10 years ago are still with him today. They never forgot how he reached out to see how they were doing during the height of the crisis as he actively monitored each account to keep them out of harmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way, something he has done every day for the past 20 years and one of his core value to his customers. It is no wonder then that Tonkinson has been rewarded with a high degree of client loyalty and, more importantly, their friendship. While Tonkinson has become very successful, he never forgets what his clients need from him: someone who pays attention to them, monitors their accounts daily and cares. He is also, for many, someone who was there to comfort them on one of the worst days in the history of our country and who helped them navigate a difficult period with compassion and expert advice. " $ ('$"'+(' "+ 1 * ,","(' * .!( +, *, !"+ "*+, #( + ) ) * (0 , " $ ('$"'+(' ' !"+ &"%0 ( -+ (' ,! "' ' " % )% ''"' ' + ( .(*$"' ) ()% ('$"'+(' "' ' " % ' "+ %( , , (-,! "/" .0 " &"

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

October 3, 2011

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•• COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT ••

THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE MIAMI GARDENS” HEART BEAT! Meet Coach Darius Lawshea BY JANEY TATE Miami Gardens native, Coach Darius Lawshea, 36, is a living legend in the City of Miami Gardens! Coaching since 2003, he has lived up to his reputation as a championship coach for repeatedly taking his teams, the Miami Gardens Xpress Track and Field Club as the running back and conditioning coach for the Miami Gardens Cowboys football team, to the championships. Coach Lawshea has been coaching since 2003 and has become a notable amongst his peers, and his students.

I got a chance to sit down with Coach Lawshea and to find out what motivates him and makes him the coach of champions? Here’s what he had to say: Q: I know track and field just recently wrapped up for the season. How many championship winning athletes did you produce this year? A: Five national and Junior Olympic Champions. At nationals, Imir Rasul won the 100 meter and 200 meter run and broke the record. At the Junior Olympics, Jamal Walton won the 400 meter run and broke the record. He ran in the 4x400 meter relay that won and they broke that record too. Answer the question! We had a good season and produced to championship athletes! Q: How many track and field champions have you helped to produce since you began coaching? A: It’s been so many. I would have to say at least 40 national champs. It makes me proud! Q: How many championships have you

won in football? A: We have been going to the Super Bowl since 2004. We won the Super Bowl in 2006 and in 2008. We definitely have two major documented wins! Q: Why do you think you are a successful coach? A: I believe this is a gift from God. This is what I was blessed to do. I feel like I can get through to these kids. I can get them to believe in me then I can get them to believe in themselves. I can make a difference. That’s why coaches can’t abuse this. We spend a lot of time with these kids. We have to do what’s right. Q: Do you think that you are a father figure to some kids? A: Yes, Most definitely! A lot of kids don’t have fathers. This day and age, single mothers are working a lot and they don’t have a male figure around. That’s why coaches should teach kids what’s right because they look up to us. Q: What are some success stories that you have? A: In 2008, we were the first program in South Florida to take our kids to an indoor track meet at Harvard University in Boston. We won all of our events and broke eight (8) conference records. We took five (5) kids and it was an experience of a lifetime for them. Besides the meet itself being at Harvard, it was their first time on a plane and seeing snow. We also have four kids who did extremely well academically and athletically in high school and are now repeating the same success in college. Allen Hurns is one of them and he currently attending the University of Miami. Corbin Lamb Jr. Graduated from Miami Northwestern and he is currently attending University of Louisville. Q: Where do you see you track program in the future? A: My colleagues and I see a future taking our teams oversees to compete. We want to expose them to more than just what they are familiar with. There is a lot to see

and do in this world and we want to expose them to the opportunities and help broaden their dreams. Q: How are your programs funded? Do you get paid for coaching? Do you work a full time job outside of this?

A: The program is a non-profit program. Parents pay fees, we fundraise, and we host track meets to help with funding. But we could always use more money to advance and develop the program. Additional funding would also allow us to serve the talented youth in the community. We have a lot of talented youth in the community who are in need of programs like this to not only develop their athletic abilities, but to show them the value of discipline, education and becoming a productive and responsible citizen in the community. As far as work is concerned, I work a fulltime job for Miami-Dade County and I do this [coaching] for free. I do this because I love it.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

October 3, 2011

•• COMMUNITY NEWS ••

CITY OF MIAMI GARDENS BUILDING SERVICES DIVISION

Has A New Look, Attitude And Automated Services! During your next visit to the City of Miami Gardens’ Building Services Division, you will notice some changes and big improvements in service and efficiency! For one, you will be met with smiling faces and refreshed attitudes. You will also notice Building Division staff is outfitted with elegantly tailored shirts/blouses and black or charcoal gray pants /skirts. The new look and attitude are the result of a comprehensive reorganization of the Building and Code Compliance Department to provide and reflect the best and most professional customer service experience. Enhancing the customer experience is a priority for Building Services Division and that is why the staff now receives ongoing customer service training to help them provide you with the most updated and accurate answers and information in a most professional manner. The Building and Code Compliance Department will

hold its 2nd annual Guest Services Week in October, which highlights our commitment to improve delivery of exemplary customer service. We recognize and appreciate our internal and external customers and continue to learn new ways to offer the best service no matter what the scenario. In addition to the service improvement above, there have been significant changes implemented to facilitate the permitting process itself. We acknowledge the challenges posed by construction issues and do our very best to make the process smooth and less burdensome for our customers. Some of the new changes to the process include daily walk-thru permitting of roofing, re-roofing, windows, doors, & shutters. Please visit the Building Services Division website http://www.miamigardens-fl.gov/building/index.html for additional information. Best of all, in keeping with the City’s

“Green” initiative, and goals to become more user and customer friendly, the Building Division is going paperless. Yes! We said paperless! We are doing our part to save the trees and create less waste, thereby shrinking our carbon footprint; while providing a more efficient way for you to do business. We recently overhauled our mainframe systems to incorporate an electronic permitting system, enabling registered permit holders to view plan review comments, permit fees, permit status, make online fee payments, and schedule inspections. The new electronic and paperless system now allows access to your permit information via the City of Miami Gardens’ website: https://services.miamigardens-fl.gov/. The steps to access your permit information are as follows: 1. From the Building Services webpage select the “Online Services” tab 2. Select “Permits Inquiry”

3. Register as a new user 4. Enter your username and password to access permit information The Building Division is diligently working towards complete automation of its permitting processes. The automated process will include electronic plan submission and review, and online permit issuance. The plans and files will be maintained in a digital format to effectively manage and maintain them. The Building Services Division is committed to its motto: “One Goal, One Passion, Customer Service”. We urge you to visit us online at www.miamigardens-fl.gov to learn about the Building Services Division or stop by our offices located at 1515 NW 167th Street, Bldg. 4, Suite 180, Miami Gardens, FL 33169 let one of our service professionals assist you with permitting for you next project! Thank you and we are happy to serve you!

October 3, 2011

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