West Park April 2012 by Community Newspapers

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WEST PARK NEWS

APRIL 2012

Happy Spring Greetings! BY MAYOR ERIC H. JONES JR.

pring blessings from all at City Hall as we wish you, your family, friends and loved ones an enjoyable season as we continue to seek great opportunities for West Park! Spring casts its magical spell over all. The farmer, with his Almanac in hand, is smiling again. The golfer comes out of hibernation. The birds begin their song again and even the woodpecker taps out his disharmony. All creation is alive in spring. Resurrection life abounds. In the words of Job, “Though the root thereof wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof die in the ground; Yet through the scent of water it will bud, and bring forth boughs like a plant.” In this article I intend to share some information with you concerning legislative actions that have taken place and are pending. We are excited to bring you information regarding many Florida House and Senate Bills that can affect your life. A…2012 Legislative Session Summary Two thousand and fifty two bills were filed and a $70 billion budget was passed during the 2012 Legislative Session. Of those, only 292 passed both chambers. Below is a summary of the major issues and bills covered during the session. 1. BUDGET, FINANCES AND TAXES Facing a $2 billion budget shortfall

early on, the legislature passed a $70 billion budget. Universities, hospitals and prisons faced the most severe cuts. PreK-12 education saw the largest increase. The corporate income tax was increase from $25,000 to $50,000. The Board of Administration was given access to sell $150 million a year in tax credit to support the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund. A bill supported by brick and mortar businesses to collect internet sales tax from online retailers was defeated. A bill redefining the communication tax making in no longer applicable to digital services pass both houses unanimously. Roughly $101 million was allocated for economic incentive to be controlled by the Governor.

In City Government

WHO’S WHO

The City Commission was recently awarded a 5 Year Full Fair Share Advocacy Award from the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Broward County in recognition of the City’s ongoing support of the organization. Ms. Edith Lederberg, Executive Director of the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Broward County, presented the Commission members with a plaque at the March 21, 2012 City Commission meeting.

2. STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT A plan to change state employee health coverage failed. A bill that increased the Chief Financial Officer’s authority over procurement was amended to now require details of state contracts to be posted online. An employee retirement bill that would have changed the retirement age for police and firefighters was defeated and the legislature passed a bill requiring drug testing of state workers. 3. REAPPORTIONMENT Under a new set of constitution rules designed to prevent legislators from protecting partisan interest or incumbents, the legislature passed Senate, House and Congressional. The courts ruled the sena-

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––See

WEST

Mayor Eric H. Jones, Jr.

WEST PARK RECEIVES AWARD FROM AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER OF BROWARD COUNTY

SPRING, page 3

PARK

Vice Mayor Felicia M. Brunson

P i c t u re d f ro m L t o R : C o m m i s s i o n e r T h o m a s D o r s e t t ; Vi c e M a y o r F e l i c i a B ru n s o n ; M a y o r E r i c J o n e s ; M s . E d i t h L e d e r b e rg , o f t h e A g i n g a n d D i s a b i l i t y R e s o u rc e C e n t e r ; C o m m i s s i o n e r R i t a M a c k ; a n d C o m m i s s i o n e r S h a ro n F y ff e .

CITY

Commissioner Thomas Dorsett

OFFICIALS

Commissioner Sharon Fyffe

Commissioner Rita “Peaches” Mack

City Manager W. Ajibola Balogun

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April 2012

For more information please call City Hall at 954-989-2688

April 2012

SPRING, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––– torial map invalid. The legislature convened a special session to recreate the invalid senatorial map. A court hearing is expected on the congressional map soon. 4.

TRANSPORTATION The legislature allocated $135 million for Florida’s seaports. $200 million in licensee fees was used to shore up the budget shortfall. In future years, $10 million is expected to be allocated for seaports, $35 million to the Florida Turnpike Enterprise, $10 million to the Transportation Disadvantaged Fund, and $10 million to road projects. A measure to consolidate the state’s seven expressway authorities failed. Measures to repeal red light cameras and to prevent texting while driving were also defeated. A bill passed allowing the testing and studying of autonomous automobiles. 5.

INSURANCE A bill aimed at curbing bad-faith-lawsuits died in subcommittee. Measures to shrink Citizens Property Insurance Corp. and reduce coverage in the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund also failed. However, a proposal to change the state’s no-fault system also knows as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) passed during the final hours of session. Attorney fees are no longer eligible to be multiplied by judges. The amount of non-emergency services primary care providers are eligible for has been reduced from $10,000 to $2,500. A ban on state employees’ children participating in the Florida KidCare Program was removed. 6.

GAMING A major gaming bill that would have brought three large destination casinos to South Florida failed. Bills to ban and regulated internet cafes were also defeated. 7.

EDUCATION Governor Scott requested the addition of $1 billion for PreK-12 Education. This plan would make up for the $1.3 billion cut received by schools during the previous year and the 30,000 new students in the 20122013 school year. Per pupil funding was raised from $6,225 to $6,375. $130 million in additional funding was allocated for reading instruction and $37.4 million for virtual education. Colleges and Universities faced major cuts in the 2012 general appropriations allocation. A measure allowing parents of children attending charter school to close failing schools and a measure to increase capital funding to charter schools both failed. Florida Polytechnic University, currently a part of the University of South Florida, was created in statute laying the ground work for a new state university.

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8. ENERGY A measure creating a tax break for homeowners who made improvements on their home related to renewable energy failed. A bill that exempts landowners who sell electricity to tenants from being regulated failed. A bill to repeal the state and federal requirements of that motor fuel contain 10 percent ethanol failed. A measure to repeal a 2008 law directing the Florida Department of Environment Protection to propose carbon cap-and-trade program passed. A proposal allowing utilities to develop renewable energy projects of up to 75 megawatts per year was stripped for the major energy bill that passed the legislature. The bill includes a $16 million in renewable energy tax credits for the Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Technologies, the Renewable Energy Technologies Investment Tax Credit and the Florida Renewable Energy Production Credit. The bill also allow local governments to use their infrastructure surtax to provide loans, grants or rebates to residential or commercial property owners who make energy efficiency improvements. And finally, the bill directs the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service to identify wood or other biomass for sustainable use and provides $250,000 to the Public Service Commission to study the Florida Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act. 9. ENVIRONMENT A bill to repeal the 2010 requirement for septic tanks inspections passed. Another bill waiving the water quality rules propose by the Florida Department of Environment Protection. Measure exempt landowners from wetland regulation for participating in environmental water storage programs passed. $8.3 million was allocation to Florida Forever; $30 million was allocated to Everglades’ restoration; $5 million was allocated to northern Everglades; $10 million was allocated to beach sand restoration projects; and $125 million for petroleum contamination sites. B. ENROLLED BILLS FOR THE 2012 SESSION 1. ECONOMIC RELATED BILLS

DEVELOPMENT

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certain circumstances to be eligible for tax credits. The bill includes nearly two-dozen separate economic development provisions including: enhanced sales-tax breaks for manufacturers that purchase machinery and other equipment and for airplane-repair businesses; new sales-tax breaks for gasturbine and aircraft-engine manufacturers and for taxicab and shuttle companies that buy handicap-accessible vehicles; sales-tax exemptions for electricity used in cattle- or hog-meat packinghouses as well as electricity used in fruit or vegetable packinghouses; and reduced severance-tax rates for companies that mine phosphate rock or drill for oil in older, onshore wells. Language requiring local governments to grant a preference for printing services was stripped from the bill.

CS/CS/CS/CS/HB 503 is a comprehensive regulatory streamlining bill that among other things, prohibit municipalities from requiring that an applicant obtain a state or federal permit prior to the issuance of a local permit. The bill reduces and or waives processing fees for municipalities with a population of 25,000 or less, or for an entity created by special act, local ordinance or interlocal agreement. The bill provides for a two year extension for any building permit issued by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, water management district and includes any local development order or building permit that has an expiration date of January 1, 2012 through January 1, 2014.

2. ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL RELATED BILLS

CS/CS/CS/HB 1263 a comprehensive Department of Health reorganization bill, included language from HB 999/SB 820 repealing the statewide septic tank inspection program administered by the Department of Health. The bill allows municipalities to adopt septic tank inspection programs provided they comply with certain restrictions set forth in the bill. The bill allows municipalities having a first magnitude spring to opt out of the inspection program, and allows all other municipalities to opt in to the inspection program. Any septic tank inspection program in any municipality enacted prior to July 1, 2011 is grandfathered except no local ordinance can require a septic tank inspection at the point of sale.

a……Energy CS/CS HB 7117 requires utilities to address existing and proposed renewable energy production and purchases in their 10-year site plan. The bill allows local governments, by referendum, to issue rebates to residential or commercial property owners who make energy efficiency improvements to their residential or commercial property from the local government infrastructure surtax.

b…Reclaimed Water HB 639 provides that reclaimed water is an alternative water supply and eligible for such funding. The bill prohibits water management districts from requiring permits for the use of reclaimed water and prohibits water management districts from requiring or restricting services provided by reuse utilities.

c…Water Resource Permitting CS/HB 7003 requires the Department of Environmental Protection, in coordination with water management districts, to develop statewide resource permitting rules for activities relating to management and storage of surface waters. Local governments may adopt more stringent standards than the state rule.

a…Tax Exemptions and Tax Credits

d…Beach Nourishment

HB 7087 is a comprehensive economic development bill that increases the current corporate income tax exemption from net income from $25,000 to $50,000, exempting approximately 5,000 new businesses from the corporate income tax. The bill permits specified counties to apply for designation of enterprise zones. The legislation modifies the number of qualified employees that businesses must have in

CS/HB 691 authorizes DEP to issue permits and adopt rules involving excavation and placement of sediment on Florida’s beaches. The bill also provides legislative intent with regard to permitting for the periodic maintenance of beach nourishment projects.

e…Regulatory Streamlining

f…Septic Tanks

3. FINANCE and TAX ISSUES RELAT ED BILLS A. COMMUNICATIONS TAX

SERVICES

CS/HB 809 revises definitions relating to bundling of services which are taxed by the Communications Services Tax (CST). The bill revises language that governs the assignment of customers to local taxing jurisdictions for the purpose of imposing the applicable local communications services tax to modify the liability of a communications services tax dealer in the event of underpayment of the tax resulting from the dealer assigning a service address to the incorrect local taxing jurisdiction. CS/HB 809 creates the Communication Services Tax Work Group which is comprised of four local government representatives, four industry representatives and the Department of Revenue as the non-voting chair. The Work Group will review the impact of the changes contained in CS/HB 809 as well as make recommendations of how to modernize and simplify this important revenue source. We believe that in the long run, the fact that we share this revenue source with the State offers significant proContinued on page 5

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April 2012

• • • Cancer Never Sleeps • • • BY VICE MAYOR FELICIA M. BRUNSON

rough for her. She lost both her breasts. As she went through chemotherapy, her hair fell out. I remember going to the beauty supply store to look for a wig for her. Because of the immense pain she was in, someone had to constantly be available to take her to the doctor or sit with her. I remember the day hospice was called in and feeling so frustrated for lack of knowledge of the many services available to her. My family and I didn’t know how to fight for her or even fight with her. So on her dying bed, in a whisper in her ear as she took her last breath, I promised her that her life would not be in vain and that I would do everything in my human power that I could to ensure that the next family’s fight would be better than ours. That’s why I relay.... Today more than 11 million cancer survivors are enjoying rewarding, productive lives.

Alarming news but true…. In the United States, more than 4,100 people will hear the devastating words, “You have cancer.” More than 1,500 families will lose a loved one to the disease in the United States. About 1,638,910 new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in 2012. In 2012, about 577,190 Americans are expected to die of cancer, more than 1,500 people a day. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the US, exceeded only by heart disease, accounting for nearly 1 of every 4 deaths. Lack of health insurance and other barriers prevents many Americans from receiving optimal health care. According to the US Census Bureau, almost 51 million Americans were uninsured in 2009; almost one-third of Hispanics (32%) and one in 10 children (17 years of age and younger) had no health insurance coverage. Uninsured patients and those from ethnic minorities are substantially more likely to be diagnosed with cancer at a later stage, when treatment can be more extensive and more costly. An estimated 226,870 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to occur among women in the US during 2012; about 2,190 new cases are expected in men. Excluding cancers of the skin, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women. An estimated 39,920 breast cancer deaths (39,510 women, 410 men) are expected in 2012. Breast cancer ranks second as a cause of cancer death in women (after lung cancer). An estimated 12,060 new cases are expected to occur among children 0 to 14 years of age in 2012. Childhood cancers are rare, representing less than 1% of all new cancer diagnoses. An estimated 103,170 cases of colon and 40,290 cases of rectal cancer are expected to occur in 2012. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women. An estimated 51,690 deaths from colorectal cancer are expected to occur in 2012, accounting for 9% of all cancer deaths. An estimated 64,770 new cases of kidney (renal) cancer are expected to be diagnosed in 2012. An estimated 13,570 deaths from kidney cancer are expected to occur in 2012. An estimated 47,150 new cases of leukemia are expected in 2012. An estimated 23,540 deaths are expected to occur in 2012. An estimated 28,720 new cases of liver cancer are expected to occur in the US during 2012. An estimated 20,550 liver cancer deaths (6,570 women, 13,980 men) are expected in 2012. From 2004 to 2008, death rates for liver cancer increased by 2.2% per year in men and were stable in women. Incidence and mortality rates are more than twice as high in men as in women. An estimated 226,160 new cases of lung cancer are expected in 2012, accounting for about 14% of cancer diagnoses. Lung cancer accounts for more deaths than any other cancer in both men and women. An estimated 160,340 deaths, accounting for about 28% of all cancer

Now I ask you: Do you know someone whose life was touched by cancer? Will you relay? I hope you answered yes!

deaths, are expected to occur in 2012. An estimated 22,280 new cases of ovarian cancer are expected in the US in 2012. Ovarian cancer accounts for about 3% of all cancers among women. An estimated 15,500 deaths are expected in 2012. Ovarian cancer causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system. An estimated 43,920 new cases of pancreatic cancer are expected to occur in the US in 2012. An estimated 37,390 deaths are expected to occur in 2012, about the same number in women (18,540) as in men (18,850). An estimated 241,740 new cases of prostate cancer will occur in the US during 2012. Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men aside from skin cancer. For reasons that remain unclear, incidence rates are significantly higher in African Americans than in whites, 241 (per 100,000 men) versus 149, respectively, in 2008. With an estimated 28,170 deaths in 2012, prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in men. African Americans are more likely to develop and die from cancer than any other racial or ethnic group. The death rate for cancer among African American males is 33% higher than among white males; for African American females, it is 16% higher than among white females. African American men have higher incidence and mortality rates than whites for each of the cancer Hispanics have lower incidence rates for all cancers combined and for most common types of cancer compared to whites, but have higher rates of cancers associated with infection, such as liver, stomach, and uterine cervix. For example, Hispanic women have the highest incidence rate for cervical cancer, and rates of liver cancer are about twice as high in Hispanics as in whites. Now let me get personal…… The picture attached to this article is my beloved grandmother, Sara Mae Brunson, whom I love with every inch of my soul. The day she found out she had cancer was the day when I began this journey. The road was very

Join the City of West Park as we participate in our Annual Relay for Life Walk for Cancer on Friday, April 27th at 6pm through Saturday, April 28th at noon. The Relay will take place at McTyre Park located 3501 SW 56th Ave. This year’s theme is Mardi Gras! There will be bands parading on the track, Mardi Gras beads tossed and plenty of beautiful masks. For cancer survivors a special ceremony will be held for you and your caretaker. If you experienced a lost due to cancer, come light a candle in honor of that loved one. If you are a vendor, volunteer and/or if you have a group/team/ organization that want to walk please come out. There will be plenty of food and family fun. There will also be a children’s fun zone. All to educate and empower everyone about cancer! Cancer does not discriminate, and no one is immune. Cancer can strike any family, in any community, at any time. And the only way to fight it is to be at the West Park Relay for Life and with those families … every single day. Cancer never sleeps so on April 27th -28th- we won’t either. That’s the great strength of our City and surrounding community partners! We are here to help every family … in every community … every day. For more information about the Relay for Life event, please call (954) 989-2688 or log on to: www.relayfor life.org/westparkfl Remember to contact me at City Hall with your ideas, suggestions or concerns. I represent you and appreciate your input into the continued success of our beloved city. I can be reached at (954) 889-4164 or email fbrunson@cityofwestpark.org .

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tection against substantial diminution of these revenues. B. TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPER TY TAX EXEMPTION CS/HJR 1003 will be on the 2012 general election ballot. The bill, subject to voter 60 percent approval in the November election, creates a targeted exemption from ad valorem on tangible personal property for small businesses. It also authorizes cities to provide through a local ordinance, additional TPP relief for businesses. Finally, we have been informed that our road designation bill that will designate a strip of 441, from Pembroke Road to County Line Road, as West Park Boulevard

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was delivered to the Governor’s Office Friday evening. He has 15 days to act on the bill. His signature is the final approval needed before the designation becomes official.

FROM THE DESK OF COMMISSIONER RITA “PEACHES” MACK

THOUGHT: The onset of spring is set forth as a glorious picture of renewal for all. Remember how the darkness Is followed by the light, How warm and sunny days Come after each long night, How Springtime follows Winter And the rainbow cloaks the rain; In the same way even life’s sad moments Soon turn to joy again.

REMEMBERING TRAYVON MARTIN…. THOUGHTS FROM A CONCERNED MOTHER

HAPPY SPRINGTIME! Please do not hesitate to contact me direct ly at 954.889.4153 with any questions you may have.

SAME DAY DELIVERY AVAILABLE We’ll help you find the perfect arrangement or gift.

• Flowers

• Plants

• Birthdays

• Wedding

• Balloons

• Anniversaries

• Gift Baskets • Sympathy (we deliver to funeral homes & hospitals)

Hirni’s Wayside Gardens Florist 9950 SW 57th Avenue • Pinecrest, FL 33156 305.661.6266 • www.hirnisflorist.com Monday thru Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm

q a i

Profiling: What will we do when it comes knocking on our door? I sit and look at my own son and think about the young man, Trayvon Martin, and ponder whether it is no longer safe to walk the streets of our cities. We as a people, and as a nation, need to question the values and morals that we are teaching our children. Personally, I also question police officers’ actions and I question the actions of those who do illegal activities within the cities that we are working so hard to build. I challenge everyone to be vigilant and look out for our children. There was no excuse for the way Trayvon Martin was gunned down. I take some comfort in my belief that God was watching his every move. He could not have known his life would result in the current turmoil in our country; however it is my hope that in the long run, this may result in the betterment of our nation. I extend condolences to the parents of Trayvon Martin and the others who mourn him. The more we try to support each other, the better encouragers we will become.

Trayvon Martin One of the greatest deliverances people can ever experience in life is to have their attitudes changed. I believe the tragic circumstances surrounding Trayvon Martin is a reason and a call for us to pray. My door is always open and I am available to you. If you need to meet with me or talk, please contact me at 954.889.4156.

Be smart, read a book! Sara’s Homestay Quality Student Housing Around the World

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April 2012

New Color Palette for Transit Oriented Corridor BY LORRAINE TAPPEN AICP, Senior Planner Most of the 441 corridor within the City of West Park is within what is called

the Transit Oriented Corridor (TOC). The purpose of this corridor is to provide of mix retail, restaurant, services, small employment uses and residential uses within a short distance of transit facilities. The City’s zoning code for the TOC specifies building architectural styles to ensure new development is attractive for residents, visitors, and business customers. In order to ensure new buildings are painted appropriate, attractive and compatible colors, the City Commission approved an ordinance on March 21, 2012 to require all new buildings and existing buildings use paint within the West Park Transit Oriented Corridor Color Palette. At least two colors from the approved TOC Color Palette must appear on each frontage (the part of the building facing the road). Before painting a building in the TOC, the paint color must be registered with the City. An application for the registration is available on the City’s website. Property owners are required to review the TOC Color Palette and register the color before painting their building. The color palette can be viewed at City Hall. The TOC Color Palette reflects the City’s desire to create an attractive business atmosphere that reflects the City’s motto: “The City of Positive Progression.”

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April 2012

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• • • RECENT EVENTS • • •

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April 2012

• • • RECENT EVENTS • • • On March 21, 2012, the City Commission and emergency responders from the Fire Department, Station 27, presented a Commendation to Briana Cooper, a 9-year-old resident, in recognition of her lifesaving efforts on bahelf of an ill relative.

Pictured from L to R: Commissioner Thomas Dorsett; Vice Mayor Felicia Brunson; Mayor Eric Jones; Briana Cooper; Commissioner Rita “Peaches” Mack; and Commissioner Sharon Fyffe

Briana Cooper receives a commendation and gifts from the City Commission and members of the Fire Department, Station 27.

On March 2, 2012, the Broward Black Elected Officials (BBEO) hosted its 2012 Gala “No Dreams Deferred”, which took place at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and honored actress Loretta Devine with BBEO’s National Community Service Award.

BBEO Chair, West Park Mayor, Eric Jones, delivers the invocation with Mistress of Ceremonies Tamara Gant looking on. (BBEO Event Photos by Norman’s Photoland)

Comedian Alonzo Bodden & West Park Commissioner Thomas Dorsett

Pictured from L to R: Loretta Devine & Vice Mayor Felicia Brunson

April 2012

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BIKE SAFETY EVENT From the Parks and Recreation Department On Wednesday, March 14, 2012, The Parks and Recreation Department held its annual Bike Safety/Awareness Day. Since March is Bicycle Month throughout the State of Florida, in partnership with Broward County Park & Recreation, the City provided this wonderful event for residents. Participants of all ages learned about bicycle safety, pedestrian safety, how to safely cross the street, and why it is important to wear a helmet at all times. Every participant received a free helmet to take home with them that was properly fit to ensure maximum safety. Children also received activity books, bookmarks, bike license plates, and several give-a-ways to help them remember to be safe when on a bike or walking. The helmet donations were made possible by

the generous support of the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services Council and the Epilepsy Foundation. Additional giveaway items, event extras, and event support were made possible by Broward County Parks & Recreation, The Safety Resource Center at the University of Florida, The Florida Department of Transportation, South Florida Regional Transportation Authority, The Walk Safe/Bike Safe Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Neuroscience Center at the University of Miami, and Marlene Allen of Child Safe Kits. All participants walked away from the program with a greater appreciation for riding a bike and how to do so safely at all times. For more information on this or any event in the City, please contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 954-985-1990.

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CONTROLLING STRESS IN YOUR LIFE BY KENNETH KRONHEIM, Licensed Psychotherapist Stress management starts with identifying the sources of stress in your life. This isn’t as easy as it sounds. Your true sources of stress aren’t always obvious, and it’s all too easy to overlook your own stressinducing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Sure, you may know that you’re constantly worried about work deadlines. But maybe it’s your procrastination, rather than the actual job demands, that leads to deadline stress. Learn about hidden sources of stress To identify your true sources of stress, look closely at your habits, attitude, and excuses: • Do you explain away stress as temporary (“I just have a million things going on right now”) even though you can’t remember the last time you took a breather? • Do you define stress as an integral part of your work or home life (“Things are always crazy around here”) or as a part of your personality (“I have a lot of nervous energy, that’s all”). • Do you blame your stress on other people or outside events, or view it as entirely normal and unexceptional? Until you accept responsibility for the role you play in creating or maintaining it, your stress level will remain outside your control. Look at how you currently cope with stress Think about the ways you currently manage and cope with stress in your life. Your stress journal can help you identify them. Are your coping strategies healthy or unhealthy, helpful or unproductive? Unfortunately, many people cope with stress in ways that compound the problem. Unhealthy ways of coping with stress These coping strategies may temporarily reduce stress, but they cause more damage in the long run: • Smoking • Drinking too much • Overeating or under eating • Zoning out for hours in front of the TV or computer • Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities • Using pills or drugs to relax • Sleeping too much • Procrastinating • Filling up every minute of the day to avoid facing problems • Taking out your stress on others (lashing out, angry outbursts, physical violence)

Learning healthier ways to manage stress If your methods of coping with stress aren’t contributing to your greater emotional and physical health, it’s time to find healthier ones. There are many healthy ways to manage and cope with stress, but they all require change. You can either change the situation or change your reaction. When deciding which option to choose, it’s helpful to think of the four As: avoid, alter, adapt, or accept. Since everyone has a unique response to stress, there is no “one size fits all” solution to managing it. No single method works for everyone or in every situation, so experiment with different techniques and strategies. Focus on what makes you feel calm and in control. Not all stress can be avoided, and it’s not healthy to avoid a situation that needs to be addressed. You may be surprised, however, by the number of stressors in your life that you can eliminate. Learn how to say “no” – Know your limits and stick to them. Whether in your personal or professional life, refuse to accept added responsibilities when you’re close to reaching them. Taking on more than you can handle is a surefire recipe for stress. Avoid people who stress you out – If someone consistently causes stress in your life and you can’t turn the relationship around, limit the amount of time you spend with that person or end the relationship entirely. Take control of your environment – If the evening news makes you anxious, turn the TV off. If traffic’s got you tense, take a longer but less-traveled route. If going to the market is an unpleasant chore, do your grocery shopping online. Avoid hot-button topics – If you get upset over religion or politics, cross them off your conversation list. If you repeatedly argue about the same subject with the same people, stop bringing it up or excuse yourself when it’s the topic of discussion. Pare down your to-do list – Analyze your schedule, responsibilities, and daily tasks. If you’ve got too much on your plate, distinguish between the “shoulds” and the “musts.” Drop tasks that aren’t truly necessary to the bottom of the list or eliminate them entirely. If you can’t avoid a stressful situation, try to alter it. Figure out what you can do

to change things so the problem doesn’t present itself in the future. Often, this involves changing the way you communicate and operate in your daily life. Express your feelings instead of bottling them up. If something or someone is bothering you, communicate your concerns in an open and respectful way. If you don’t voice your feelings, resentment will build and the situation will likely remain the same. Be willing to compromise. When you ask someone to change their behavior, be willing to do the same. If you both are willing to bend at least a little, you’ll have a good chance of finding a happy middle ground. Be more assertive. Don’t take a backseat in your own life. Deal with problems head on, doing your best to anticipate and prevent them. If you’ve got an exam to study for and your chatty roommate just got home, say up front that you only have five minutes to talk. Manage your time better. Poor time management can cause a lot of stress. When you’re stretched too thin and running behind, it’s hard to stay calm and focused. But if you plan ahead and make sure you don’t overextend yourself, you can alter the amount of stress you’re under. If you can’t change the stressor, change yourself. You can adapt to stressful situations and regain your sense of control by changing your expectations and attitude. Reframe problems. Try to view stressful situations from a more positive perspective. Rather than fuming about a traffic jam, look at it as an opportunity to pause and regroup, listen to your favorite radio station, or enjoy some alone time. Look at the big picture. Take perspective of the stressful situation. Ask yourself how important it will be in the long run. Will it matter in a month? A year? Is it really worth getting upset over? If the answer is no, focus your time and energy elsewhere. Adjust your standards. Perfectionism is a major source of avoidable stress. Stop setting yourself up for failure by demanding perfection. Set reasonable standards for yourself and others, and learn to be okay with “good enough.” Focus on the positive. When stress is getting you down, take a moment to reflect on all the things you appreciate in your life, including your own positive qualities and gifts. This simple strategy can help you

keep things in perspective. Some sources of stress are unavoidable. You can’t prevent or change stressors such as the death of a loved one, a serious illness, or a national recession. In such cases, the best way to cope with stress is to accept things as they are. Acceptance may be difficult, but in the long run, it’s easier than railing against a situation you can’t change. Don’t try to control the uncontrollable. Many things in life are beyond our control— particularly the behavior of other people. Rather than stressing out over them, focus on the things you can control such as the way you choose to react to problems. Look for the upside. As the saying goes, “What doesn’t kill us makes us stronger.” When facing major challenges, try to look at them as opportunities for personal growth. If your own poor choices contributed to a stressful situation, reflect on them and learn from your mistakes. Share your feelings. Talk to a trusted friend or make an appointment with a therapist. Expressing what you’re going through can be very cathartic, even if there’s nothing you can do to alter the stressful situation. Learn to forgive. Accept the fact that we live in an imperfect world and that people make mistakes. Let go of anger and resentments. Free yourself from negative energy by forgiving and moving on. Beyond a take-charge approach and a positive attitude, you can reduce stress in your life by nurturing yourself. If you regularly make time for fun and relaxation, you’ll be in a better place to handle life’s stressors when they inevitably come. Healthy ways to relax and recharge • Go for a walk. • Spend time in nature. • Call a good friend. • Sweat out tension with a good workout. • Write in your journal. • Take a long bath. • Light scented candles. • Savor a warm cup of coffee or tea. • Play with a pet. • Work in your garden. • Get a massage. • Curl up with a good book. • Listen to music. • Watch a comedy. Don’t get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of life that you forget to take care of your own needs. Nurturing yourself is a necessity, not a luxury.

April 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

BIKE SAFETY TIPS From the Fire Department

Before riding: • Make sure your child has the right size helmet and that he wears it every time when riding, skating or scooting. • Inspect bicycles, scooters and skateboards to ensure that reflectors are secure, brakes work properly, gears shift smoothly and tires are tightly secured and properly inflated. During riding: • Actively supervise children. • Avoid riding bikes, skateboard or scooters in and around cars. • Practice bike safety: learn the rules of the road, wear reflective clothes and stickers and ride on sidewalks when possible. After riding: • Maintain equipment properly. • Safely store bikes in secure and accessible locations Safety Tools There are many tools that parents can use to help to keep children safe from injuries. Many of them are affordable and can be found at many stores. What you'll need:

Bike helmet

Knee and elbow pads

Retroreflective stickers

Kenneth Kronheim, District Fire Chief Broward Sheriff's Office Fire Rescue Office (954) 635-3301 Cell (954) 818-6039 Fax (954) 359-6964

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Recent City Proclamations and Commendations

April 2012

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April 18, 2012

Barbara Buxton, J.D., LL.M. Florida Attorney

Nursing Home Medicaid • Elder Law & Estate Planning Florida Medicaid Planning & Eligibility Asset Protection • Wills, Trusts, Living Wills Powers of Attorney • Guardianships Probate: Estate Administration

Serving Dade, Broward & Palm Beach Counties Tel.: 305.932.2293 Miami-Dade County 954.760.7077 Broward County www.buxtonlaw.com

April 2012

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RED LIGHT CAMERA ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

RED LIGHT CAMERA ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Q: A:

What is a red light running violation?

Q: A:

Why install red light cameras?

Q: A:

How do intersection safety cameras work?

Q: A:

Where will the red light cameras be located in West Park?

Q: A:

What if the light was yellow?

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April 2012

Protect your Family with Estate Planning Workshop By Susan Smith Every family arrives at that fork in the road when estate planning is necessary to protect the future of aging parents or to secure an inheritance for future descendants. The attorneys at Bloomgarden, Goudreau and Rosen, P.A. believe life is complicated enough and protecting the family should not have to be. In the spirit of estate planning solutions, “The 7 Threats to Your Family Security” workshop will be held Thursday, March 29 at 5:30pm at The Hampton Inn, 1000 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach. “The best way for us to educate our clients is by having them attend our workshop where we explain estate planning from start to finish and address commonly held myths and misinformation. We show why everybody needs, at the very least, some form of basic estate planning. Attendees learn that failing to plan can lead to disastrous results, especially when some people’s idea of estate planning means having all of your assets titled jointly with a spouse or children,” said attorney and workshop director Philip C. Rosen. Often accompanied by adult children, couples approaching their golden years

leave the workshop empowered to begin the process of planning for the present and their future – something they have likely been meaning to get to for weeks, months, and sometimes years, according to Rosen. “Estate planning is not just for when you die, but when you are alive. We dispel rumors about how you can lose your assets to a nursing home and outline how we can help protect those assets before a crisis arises. Our clients can rest easy knowing that there are plans in place if the time comes when they can no longer manage their own affairs.” Bloomgarden, Goudreau and Rosen, P.A. utilizes proprietary trusts to help protect clients from nursing homes and lawsuits. “We are members of a nationwide organization, Medicaid Practice Network, which gives us access to a large number of attorneys throughout the country that also handle Medicaid Planning and Asset Pro-

tection matters. We are able to collaborate and share ideas so, although we have a small firm feel, we have the ability to leverage our network to help our clients find solutions,” said Rosen. “The 7 Threats to Your Family Security” workshop stresses that everyone’s situation is different. When attendees mention horror stories told by someone in their retirement community about assets being “taken by the nursing home,” Rosen says that with proper planning, situations like that simply should not have to occur. Individuals without long term care insurance may especially benefit from the presentation because it shows that most people can preserve their assets and allow Medicaid to cover their cost of care if the need to move to a nursing home arises. Proper estate planning should help maintain control of assets for the family, give control to trusted loved ones, allow

you to remain home without stress on the family if long term care is required, and keep family business private. In addition to helping clients plan to qualify for Medicaid regardless of the value of their assets, Bloomgarden, Goudreau and Rosen, P.A. can also help clients discover how to take advantage of Veteran’s Benefits that are available from the government to help pay for the cost of care at home or a nursing home. “It is a very enjoyable process because at the end of the day there is a tangible outcome in the definitive results we help clients achieve. It is right there in black and white. It feels great when the clients call us to offer thanks and let us know that they can rest easy because we understood their goals and created a plan to achieve those goals,” said Rosen. “The 7 Threats to Your Family Security” workshop will be Thursday March 29 at 5:30pm at The Hampton Inn across from Gulfstream, 1000 South Federal Highway in Hallandale Beach. Seating is limited and registration is required. Call Fredda Fierro at 954-370-2222 to register or reserve online at www.medicaidattorneysflorida.com.

April 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

CODE ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURE BY ANDRE EUGENT, Code Enforcement Officer The Code Enforcement process begins when a code enforcement officer observes a violation, a resident calls in a complaint, a letter or online complaint is received, or other City departments or entities make a complaint. All complaints are investigated and verified by a code enforcement officer and if a violation exists, the officer will take further action toward obtaining voluntary compliance. Courtesy & Citation Notices If a violation exists the Code Enforcement officer will issue a courtesy notice giving the violator a reasonable time to correct same. However if the violation is a public health, safety and welfare concern, or a violation that cannot be corrected such as cutting down a protected tree, the code enforcement officer will issue a citation to appear in front of the Special Magistrate. Failure to correct violations within the

Never Pay Another Expensive Repair Again

specified time period may result in the violator(s) being issued a civil citation to appear in Magistrate Court for each violation. Examples of Violations: • construction without a permit • substandard housing • dangerous or open-to-entry buildings • clearing or grading without permits • irresponsible or hazardous development • operation of an illegal business • accumulation of junk and debris • storage of junk cars • zoning code infractions • livestock infractions • illegal dumping • weed infestation • animal control complaints • air quality complaints Residents should call the Code Enforcement Office at 954.921.7781 with any questions. A re-inspection of the property will take place to determine if the violation(s) have been corrected. Ly Espinol

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‘Lose 10 Pounds in 10 Days’ Jackie Warner shares secret celeb program for losing weight fast BY BARI AUERBACH In her newest book, ‘Lose 10 Pounds in 10 Days’ fitness expert Jackie Warner reveals a research-backed and clientproven program that isn’t just a quick fix for losing 10 pounds fast – Warner promises it can help you “kickstart a whole new life of fitness, health and happiness!” Rather than starving which can lead to binging, Warner says the key to fast weight loss is to increase calories during the 10day phases of her plan. She explains foods that work best when trying to lose weight include grapefruit and apples (containing pectin – a major fat burner). She also suggests eating two whole eggs a day to actually help lower cholesterol as well as oatmeal for the fiber and chicken, which has tons of amino acids. Foods she eliminates completely include all white flours, all white breads, white rice, cookies, pretzels, crackers and croutons. Beyond choosing the right foods, Warner emphasizes it’s essential to exercise daily. “You can make a 20-minute workout very effective by combining it into supersets,” she says. Warner also highly recommends cardio-acceleration based workouts (short but intense cardio bursts between strength training exercises.) In “Lose 10 Pounds in 10 Days,” Warner promises to provide “A program that your body will love and you will want to commit to for a lifetime.” Her plan features: • A nutrient-rich, all-natural diet to jumpstart your metabolism and rev up the fat burning • Exercises to tone and sculpt your body to perfection • Encouragement to turn self-loathing into self-loving

The “10x10 Program” featured in Warner’s book provides grocery lists, menus, workouts and a simple breakdown of the 10-day phases that is very easy to follow. Motivational support is also provided in keeping with some of Warner’s favorite fitness philosophies: “Your goal is to live life to the fullest – mastering your body is the first step!” “Change your body – change your life!” To learn more about how people following Warner’s “10x10 Program” are now on the path toward living the fittest happiest and healthiest life possible or to order “Lose 10 Pounds in Ten Days,” visit jackiewarner.com. Warner is also the author of the New York Times bestseller “This is Why You’re Fat (and How to Get Thin Forever)”; and star trainer of TV shows “Workout” and “Thintervention” on the Bravo network.

www.communitynewspapers.com

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April 2012

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

WEST PARK CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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April 2012

HELP WANTED

MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES NEEDED! Learn to become a Medical Office Assistant! No Experience Needed! Local Job Training! Job Placement Assistance is available after program completed!

1-888-528-5549 HELP WANTED

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

HELP WANTED

SPECIAL EDUCATION INSTRUCTIONAL COORDINATOR MILO INTERNATIONAL CORP. WESTON, FL Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Special Education mention: Learning Disabilities; + 5 yrs exp. Responsible for organizing & implementing an instructional program for specific learning disabilities students; Designing the exceptional student education program; Prepare educational plans for each student based on individually assessed needs; Will provide specialized instructional techniques and media through individual and/or group sessions designed to meet the educational, social and emotional needs of the students. Will participate on evaluation teams for specific learning disabilities students as appropriate. Email resume: julio@miloincorp.com

HELP WANTED

Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Business Administration + 5 yrs experience. Will work on Corpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s image by leading an aggressive advertising campaign. Evaluate sales channels to search new clientele in Panama, Colombia and Venezuela. Knowledge of Venezuelan import customs regulations and tariffs. Will deal with suppliers and providers of vessel equipment in the US; knowledge of foreign exchange bolivares fuertes/us dollars; human resources duties; design business plan and marketing strategy; will deal with banks (experience in banking relations); responsible for managing accounting, finance and budgetting planning for a wholetrade business of vessel equipments (export only). Email resume:

HELP WANTED

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HELP WANTED

LOOKING FOR PART-TIME WORK? The Aventura News is looking for an energetic, happy person who would like to make some extra spending money every week. So, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for something to do, in between taking the kids to school or right before you tee-off on the golf course, then the part-time position in our advertising sales department just might be right for you. The opportunity entails you calling neighborhood retail stores, real estate agencies, car dealers and restaurants and helps them promote their businesses through advertising in the Aventura News and Sunny Isles Beach Sun. If you have 15-20 hours a week available and you want to earn $300 - $500 per week on a part-time basis, then e-mail Michael Miller at Michael@communitynewspapers.com or call 305-669-7355 ext. 249.

HELP WANTED

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TRAINING! Train to become a Microsoft Office Assistant! No Experience Needed! Local career training is now available! Placement Assistance available when training program is completed!

1-888-528-5547

HELP WANTED

POSITION WANTED

FOR SALE

Analytical Strategist

Bestron USA, Inc. seeks a

PERSONAL ASSISTANT

FOR SALE

Bachelor in Bus. Admin. & 5 yrs exp. req. Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems And recommending solutions.

COMPUTER SYS MANAGER. Mail resume to: 6155 NW 72nd Ave. Miami, Florida HELP WANTED

MSI Miami Corp seeks an

ACCOUNTING MANAGER.

#"! " !

! " "

Mail resume to: 2001 NW 84th Ave. Doral, Florida

REAL ESTATE

Need to SELL your Home or condo Learn how Short Sale Can Help You Avoid Foreclosure!!! Buyers, Investorsâ&#x20AC;Ś Looking for opportunities Ocean Three 3/3.5 On the Beach - Panoramic view of Ocean and city unit in Foreclosures great price $850,000. WaterView 2/2 Ocean and Intracoastal views â&#x20AC;&#x201C; new kitchen â&#x20AC;&#x201C; washer and dryer Short Sale $295,000 2/2 Ocean and Intracoastal views 1,200 sq ft washer & dryer Short Sale $195,000 Jackie Rosado 305-335-2132 Jackie@MiamiTopHomes.com www.MiamiTopHomes.com

Bi-lingual. Ready to shop, cook healthy meals, help with housekeeping and errands, responsible, consciencious, hard working & energetic.

Contact 305-741-8767 SERVICES

Jewelry Store in Sunny Isles Beach Resort. Front store in main lobby. Low rent.

786-537-6682 SERVICES

PLAY PIANO NOW! Learn piano and keyboard with an exciting approach in an inspiring atmosphere under the direction of Mary Lou.

305.493.4507 Cell: 954.439.0308 SERVICES

Bectsyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NEED A Cleaning TUTOR? Services â&#x20AC;˘ Reading Residential & Commercial

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Get help from the best!

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ANDREA

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Having recurring backups in Kitchens/Laundry Bad Odors • Roach Problems • Slow Drains? We are a full service plumbing company • Expert Drainline Technicians • Camera Drain Inspection • Ultrasound Leak Detection State Licensed & Insured CFC044163

305-978-6937

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Looking for a FULL time or PART time JOB? If you’re happy and you know it, have 15-25 hours a week and enjoy talking with people, then this might just be for you. The Aventura News is looking for someone that is confident, has sales experience and knows how to sell newspaper advertising. You can make lots of money, have a good time, and make a difference. For more information about this salaried, plus commission position, call Michael Miller at 305-669-7030 or Email michael@communitynewspapers.com

6796 SW 62nd Avenue • South Miami, FL 33143 • Phone (305) 669-7355 Fax: (305) 662-6980

Want to know more about us? Go on a tour www.communitynewspapers.com

seniors Buying a home?

Buy with an FHA Reverse Mortgage • No monthly payments! • No income requirements! • No credit requirements! We can even refer you to a Realtor® in your area that works with buyers and reverse mortgages. Call me...

R. Kenneth Bluh

Manager: Reverse Mortgage Department, MLO, NMLS# 328257

786-247-0547 or KBluh@AmericanBSM.com

2600 Douglas Road, Suite 510, Coral Gables FL 33134 Lender NMLS # 217378

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Licensed & Insured • Tree Trimming • Consultation • Stump Grinding • Landscaping • Lawn Services • Fertilization • Sprinkler Repair • Debris Removal • Backhoe Service • Driveway Pavers • Fencework - All Types • Chickee Huts • Outdoor Kitchens • And More

FREE ESTIMATES • 305-233-0699

CORPORATE APPROVED

April 2012

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April 2012