www.communitynewspapers.com
Community Newspapers NOVEMBER 2012
WEST PARK NEWS
WHO’S WHO
WEST
PARK
CITY
OFFICIALS
In City Government
Thanks for Everything L
BY MAYOR ERIC H. JONES JR. Mayor Eric H. Jones, Jr.
Vice Mayor Felicia M. Brunson
Commissioner Thomas Dorsett
Commissioner Sharon Fyffe
Commissioner Rita “Peaches” Mack
City Manager W. Ajibola Balogun
et me begin by saying that we are a small city but one with a very large heart. A heart and fervor that has been carried on through the athletic efforts of our young football players from the inception of our football program. The game of football is one we play with lots of passion, enthusiasm, and in good spirit. Unfortunately the intolerable actions that witnessed by many displayed the opposite of what we preach in our program and are not a representation of who we are as a City, a Community, or an Organization. We are a hardworking and proud community that rallies behind the efforts of our young student-athletes as they strive to represent us on the gridiron in a positive manner. We take great pride in guiding the path of our children as they carry on through life to become the future forefathers of this community and leaders of tomorrow. Since July our children have been working hard to properly represent us and have done so bravely earning the respect of every opponent along the way. Now, this year, their efforts have been halted by the actions of one person. Their dreams have been shattered and their rightfully earned opportunity to play has been taken from them as the league has suspended the football teams for the remainder of the season. The actions that have taken place are intolerable and saddening to say the least. We take great pride in properly representing the Miami Extreme Youth Football League, the Orange Bowl Youth Football Alliance, and all of their affiliates. We hope that the actions of one individual do not continue to negatively portray the positive work being done to make a difference in the lives of our youth. We have asked that the Miami Extreme Youth Football League reconsider their suspension of the children in our program who are not at fault for this incident and allow our children to finish what they have started
this season. Thanks to all of you for your understanding in this matter. By the time you read this paper the elections probably will be over and our president for the next four years will be waiting to be inaugurated. Regardless of whom it may be let us be thankful for the greatest nation on earth and continue our climb toward higher heights. As this year winds down there are many things that we as a city can be thankful for. Once again we have balanced our budget and ended this year in the black. We have received grants that helped in many of our city projects and our prospect for more businesses look good. There are many other things that can be said but the time and space does not allow. Only know that our city is fiscally sound. For these things I give thanks during this season. The Masai tribe in West Africa has an unusual way of saying "thank you." Translators tell us that when the Masai express thanks, they bow, put their forehead on the ground and say, "My head is in the
dirt." When members of another African tribe want to express thanks, they sit for a long time in front of the hut of the person who did the favor and literally say, "I sit on the ground before you." Those Africans understand well what Thanksgiving is and why it is different for us: at its core, thanksgiving is an act of humility. Our country recognizes this also. In 1789, our nation’s first President, George Washington, issued the following proclamation: “Whereas, it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor, and Whereas both houses of Congress have by their joint committee requested me to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging
,
––––––––––––------------------––– See UPDATE page 3
Mayors Accept $5000.00 Grant from Community Foundation of Broward, Inc.
Pictured in this photo, President/CEO CFB- Linda B. Carter and Mayor Eric H. Jones, Jr. with Mayors from other Cities.
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November 2012
November 2012
THANKS FOR, from page 1 ––––––––––– with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God, Now therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these states to the service of that great and glorious being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be.” Our forefathers were not so much thankful for something as they were thankful in something. In abundance or in want, they were thankful. In feast or in famine, they were thankful. In joy or in misery, they were thankful. There is a big difference between being thankful for things and being thankful in all things. When we look at the big picture it should prompt us to give thanks. If we could shrink the earth’s population to a village of one hundred people; here’s the way the world would look: There would be 57 Asians, 21 Europeans, 14 from the Western Hemisphere, and 8 Africans. There would be 50 suffering from malnutrition and one would be near death. Only one would have a college education, and only one would own a computer. There would be 80 living in substandard housing; 70 would be unable to read; 6 would possess 59% of the world’s wealth and all six would be from North America. As a nation we are better off than three billion people in this regard. We have money in the bank and spare change in a dish, food in the refrigerator, clothes on our backs, and a roof over our heads. We are richer than 75% of this world. However, we only remember to be thankful when our creature comforts are interrupted. Our power is shut off, and suddenly we become thankful for electricity. Our garbage is not picked up, and suddenly we become thankful for the garbage collector’s weekly stop. A good friend dies, and suddenly we discover how much he meant to us. Our water becomes too polluted to drink and suddenly we appreciate having good water. Why is it that, we take for granted the uncounted blessings of life until they are removed from us? In and old comic strip, It is Thanksgiving Day and the aroma of roast turkey fills Charlie Brown’s house. Snoopy, outside lying on top of his doghouse, smells that aroma and he is
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thinking, “It’s Thanksgiving Day. Everybody eats turkey on Thanksgiving Day.” So he lies there, watching the back door, eagerly awaiting his Thanksgiving dinner. Finally, the door opens and here comes Charlie Brown with a bowl of dog food, and he puts it on the ground. Snoopy gets off his house and stares at the dog food with a forlorn look on his face, and he thinks, “Just because I’m a dog, I have to eat dog food on Thanksgiving Day.” Then the next square shows Snoopy looking at the dog food more intently, and he is thinking, “It could be worse. I could be the turkey.” Let us remember, this Thanksgiving to be thankful for what we have. Thankful for those on whose shoulders we stand that made possible our freedom. Alex Haley, the author of “Roots,” had an unusual picture hanging on his office wall. It was a picture of a turtle on top of a fence post. When asked, “Why is that there?” Alex Haley answered, “Every time I write something significant, every time I read my words and think that they are wonderful, and begin to feel proud of myself, I look at the turtle on top of the fence post and remember that he didn’t get there on his own. He had help.” That is the basis of thankfulness - to remember that we got here with the sacrifice of brave men and women and the help of God, and that He is the provider of every blessing we have. Thanksgiving has come a long way since the time of the Pilgrims and Indians. Today, it is an opportunity to get the family together to watch football and feast on turkey, stuffing, cranberries, and pumpkin pie. Sure, we know that you are thankful when your favorite team wins the big game, but do you really take the time to verbalize your gratitude for bigger things? Do you tell your loved ones how much they mean to you? Take advantage of this holiday and the month that surrounds it and remember this statement, “People who are truly thankful do not complain they find a reason to be grateful.” In closing I would like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving as you give thanks for what you have as you strive for the things you want. MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS AMERICA AND BLESS THE CITY OF WEST PARK.
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September 2012
Be Thankful BY VICE MAYOR FELICIA M. BRUNSON Although we should remember the significance of all our holidays, I believe that Thanksgiving is the holiday which should be used for a time of quiet reflection. We would all do well to pause and remember those brave souls who risked their lives to travel to a new and uncharted land in search of freedom. A freedom which oftentimes we now all take for granted. I hope that you will gather with your family and friends and take a moment to reflect, remember, and give thanks. Every year around Thanksgiving, we are reminded about the things for which we are thankful. As every year, I am thankful for my family, health, friends old and new. I’m thankful for life itself, and everything that we are able to do and accomplish. This is also a time to think about those less fortunate than ourselves. This is the time to consider offering our time to volunteer in our community or making a donation to our favorite charity. There are many volunteering opportunities right here in our city. Let us take a moment during this Thanksgiving holiday season to reflect on our lives and on our blessings. We have endured hardships this past year. Our economy has not been as vibrant as in years past. Property values are low and many are unemployed. Many of us have lost loved ones, or have faced other personal crises. We grieve with our friends and neighbors over their losses and problems, but we rejoice with them in their good times. And yet, we are blessed to live in a city where we can learn from, and appreciate, the differences which make us unique. Take the time to thank God for all of the blessings in your life. For some, the blessings may seem sparse this year, but that just means that we need to reflect deeper to find the good in our lives. Everyone has something to be thankful for:
Our freedom as Americans, the love of family and friends. Be thankful for the things in your life that you wouldn’t want to live without. It is easier at this time of year. But let Thanksgiving be the start of a new outlook - a reconfigured attitude toward the events in the past and what the future holds. Additionally, we are privileged to live in the City of West Park. We are fortunate to have a Commission and Staff who are committed to providing the best service possible to our citizens. People of all races, ages and socio-economic levels come together annually at the Mary Kendrick’s “Feed the Needy Feast” where they give love offerings to help the seniors in our community. We live in a community that finds time to laugh and enjoy life. We have many blessings, large and small. The list is endless. Only when we begin to take stock, do we realize just how blessed we truly are. I encourage you to also think about our community’s needs and find the time, or the money, to give back. I wish you all a very happy Thanksgiving, and wish you and your families all the best during this holiday season! 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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November 2012
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CODE ENFORCEMENT – FAQS
From the Code Enforcement Department Q: What are the common complaints that Code Enforcement Inspector Investigate? A: The most common complaints involve public nuisances such as overgrown grass/weeds on properties, unsightly bulk trash, building code violations, illegal signage, and business tax license and zoning violations. Q: How can I make a complaint or report a Code violation? A: You may come into the City Hall in person and speak to either the code enforcement inspector or any member of staff. You may call the code enforcement officer directly at either 305-814-8549 or 954- 921-7781 or the City Hall at 954-989-2688. Q: How will I find out what happens to
my complaints? A: If you wish to be re-contacted, please leave your name & number so that the code enforcement inspector can call you and discuss the incident.
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HOW POLITICS CAN SHATTER A HEALTHY JUSTICE SYSTEM By Russel Lazega, Attorney and Author
Q: How long should it take for the code enforcement inspector to investigate my complaint? A: The code enforcement inspector will try to perform an initial investigation within 48 hours of receiving your complaint. Complaints are prioritized with issues dealing with the health and safety of our community getting first priority. Some investigations may take longer. The code enforcement inspector may monitor a situation for days or weeks to ensure compliance. If you have any questions, please contact Code Enforcement at 954-921-7781.
O
kay, it’s that time again – October in a presidential election year. Maybe I should expect that, at least until November, I’m not going to get through a nightly newscast without at least a dozen or so political commercials cautioning that a vote for one candidate is a vote for tripled taxes and a vote for the other will send Big Bird straight to a KFC fryer. I get it, that’s politics. But when our justice system gets political that’s when we all need to worry. 30 Years ago, Florida had a political high court and with that came spectacular political scandals including charges of litigant-funded gambling junkets; bribery and case fixing for campaign donors. In response, Florida stopped electing its Supreme Court and empowered the Governor to appoint Justices with the appointment terms renewed by “merit retention” elections every 6 years. The system was a model that shielded courts from having politics dictate justice-system decision-making while maintaining accountability. Fast-forward 30 years and politics is again trampling the notion of a fair and independent judiciary. Eyeing an
opportunity to replace 3 “NO” votes with 3 “YES” votes and remove prickly constitutional roadblocks, Governor Scott and the state Republican Party (with financial help from a pair of Kansas oil and gas billionaires) have launched Florida’s first ever party-sponsored initiative to oust and replace Supreme Court justices. This time, though the campaign isn’t about the integrity or competence of the judges (in fact a bar survey shows exceptional approval ratings between 89% - 92% for each of the justices). The fight this time is about who will influence the future of Florida’s judiciary. I for one say, let’s leave politics to the politicians, leave the Muppets to Frank Oz and leave our high court in its capable hands. Russel Lazega is an attorney and past president of the North Dade Bar Association. He is also the author of several of Florida’s most widely distributed legal textbooks on Florida Insurance Law and represents accident victims, insurance policyholders and condominium associations throughout the state. Contact: Lazegalaw.com
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September 2012
Tips to avoid injuries at home F rom the Fire D e p a r tment The Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency services want to remind the residents of West Park that many injuries and deaths come from accidents within a person’s home. According to the National Safety Council, each year seven million A merica ns s uffer dis abling injuries and another 28,800 die as a result of injuries that happen Below is an article published by the National Safety Council: Each year, it is estimated that one in ten people will seek medical treatment for injuries. For some, the injury causes temporary pain and inconvenience, but for many individuals, the injury leads to chronic pain, disability, a change in lifestyle or even death. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to reduce the risk of injury to yourself and your family. It is common to label injuries as “accidents.” Yes, accidents happen – but they don’t just happen by chance. Most of them happen for a reason. You can protect your health
and your family’s health by understanding why injuries occur, recognizing potentially harmful situations and taking action to prevent injuries. A good place to start is in your home. While we like to think of our home as the one place where we can let our guard down and relax in comfort and safety, the fact is many things in your home can be hazardous to your health. Falls are the most common form of injury in the home and are the leading cause of home injury deaths. Protect yourself and your family by inspecting each room in your home and taking the following simple, low-cost steps, recommended by the Home Safety Council, to make safety a priority and prevent falls. Floors Floor coverings and obstacles can pose hazards. To reduce risk of tripping or slipping: • Remove scatter rugs or replace them with a low nap rug with non-slip backing. • Secure scatter rugs and edges of area rugs with adhesive carpet tape or non-skid matting under the rugs.
• Remove or relocate electrical cords that are stretched across walkways.
• Use night lights in hallways, bathrooms and bedrooms.
• Organize the house and clean up items or furniture cluttering primary traffic paths. Stairs, even those with just two or three steps, pose significant hazards that require attention.
• Keep a flashlight in a convenient location to use as a portable light source.
• Add properly shaped handrails to both sides of all stairs, including those on the exterior of the house, even if they have only two or three steps. • Often the existing handrail is hard to grip. Install handrails that are round or oval in shape. Of course, hold on to the handrails whenever going up or down stairs. • Check your stair carpet regularly for loose or torn areas; re-secure or replace loose carpet. • Use reflective or contrasting tape at the front edge of each step to make them more visible. Lighting A darkened entrance or a poorly lit stairway, hallway or room can be hazardous, particularly for older adults. • Replace outside light fixtures with motion-detecting lighting that will automatically illuminate when movement is detected. • Use a light-sensitive fixture or add-on device that will turn on at dusk. • Replace standard wall-mounted light switches with movement detecting versions that will automatically turn on lights when someone enters the area. • Use glow-in-the-dark switches to make finding switches at night easier.
Bathroom Many falls occur in the bathroom because wet surfaces are slippery. • Have grab bars in showers, tub areas and near toilets. Don’t substitute towel bars or wall-mounted soap dishes as grab bars; they can easily come loose and cause a fall. • Use a low nap rubber-backed bath mat to absorb water and reduce slipping due to wet floors. • Use a non-slip mat in the tub or shower. • Use a hand-held shower, installed within reach of everyone in the household. • Use waterproof seats or chairs with arm rests and backs in the tub or shower. These will allow the user – particularly elderly, physically frail or less agile users – to bathe or shower more safely. This is not an all-inclusive list of home hazards. Inspect your home regularly and customize your safety measures to meet the needs dictated by the age, condition, design and features of your home. Such things as fireplaces, hot tubs, and decks require additional safety provisions. Take advantage of community programs that offer free home safety assessments, particularly for households with children or older adults. Any resident who desires a Home Safety evaluation can call the BSO Fire Department to schedule one. If you have any further questions please contact Chief Kenneth Kronheim at 954.831.8200.
November 2012
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Say thank you! BY VICE MAYOR FELICIA M. BRUNSON Veterans Day is a time to honor all the men and women who served in our armed forces since the founding of our country 236 years ago. It’s also the time to display love of our country, patriotism and recognize sacrifices made for our country. As we enjoy this Veterans Day in the company of family and friends, we pay tribute to the brave men and women in our nation’s military who are presently serving overseas and are in harm’s way. Let us remember all of those who have served in our nation’s armed forces, and let us reflect on the freedoms we enjoy in this nation that were paid for by those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Not all veterans have seen war, but a common bond they share is an oath they took to defend our constitution and express their willingness to die defending this nation. Along with all the residents of the City of West Park, I want to thank our military
personnel who have proudly served under the flag of the United States – including members of the VFW Post#8195 who served under that flag in faraway lands, but now are home. Don’t undervalue the effect of simply saying “thank you” to veterans you meet. There are approximately 23 million living Americans who have served, including those who continue to serve in uniform. Of these veterans, 1.2 million are women. Showing your appreciation is the least we can do. I encourage all to take time to recognize and pay homage to those who have sacrificed, and continue to sacrifice, for their country. On this Veterans Day, we honor our military members, along with the members of the VFW Post #8195 who sacrificeD abroad and at home for our freedom and that of others. 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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November 2012
New Businesses Meet City Requirements BY SARAH SINATRA Planning Department City staff has reviewed a number of applications for new businesses in the Utopia industrial area. Certain types of businesses such as auto repair provide significant employment opportunities, but can sometimes lead to unsightly conditions that may detract from other businesses. The City’s zoning code requires that these types of businesses receive approval by the City Commission to protect the overall business environment through the special exception process. The special exception process allows the City Commission additional review of businesses that are considered basically suitable for the district in which they are listed, but the character and nature of the uses are such that they may necessitate additional requirements to fit into the community. Through the special exception application process, City staff recommended conditions for approval to ensure continuing attractiveness for the business community. For example, conditions include preventing “visual clutter,” such as prohibiting banners, pennants, and vehicle signs.
Other conditions for approval include: • All flags must be on a flagpole and landscaping must be installed on the property. • Buildings to be painted according the Transit Oriented Corridor color palette to improve the overall look of the property. • “Right Turn Only” sign placed at the exit of the property onto West Hallandale Beach Boulevard for safety issues. • Maintenance of screening on rolling gates. • No storage of vehicles outside fenced areas. • Installation of “No Parking” signs along the swale. • Auto repair work must be done completely within the building. This special exception process and the conditions for approval allow City staff and the City Commission to maintain West Park’s high standards for quality businesses that affirm the values of “The City of Positive Progression.”
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WHAT IS NPDES? The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System - CleanWater Section 402 From the Programs and Services Department The NPDES program controls direct discharges into navigable waters of the United States of America. The State of Florida has been delegated the responsibility of managing the federal requirements of the NPDES program which involves point source discharges (pipes and sewers), and non-point sources (construction sites). NPDES permits, issued by either Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or an authorized state (such as Florida) contain industry-specific, technology-based and/or water-quality-based limits, and establish pollutant monitoring and reporting requirements. A facility that intends to discharge into a water system must obtain a permit before initiating a discharge. A permit applicant must provide quantitative analytical data identifying the types of pollutants present in the facility’s effluent. The permit will then set forth the conditions and sewage limitations under which a facility may make a discharge. An NPDES permit may also include
discharge limits based on federal or state water quality criteria or standards that were designed to protect designated uses of surface waters, such as supporting aquatic life or recreation. Water quality criteria and standards vary from state to state and site to site, depending on the use classification of the receiving body of water. Most states follow EPA guidelines that propose aquatic life and human health criteria for many of the priority pollutants. The goal is to prevent STORMWATER POLLUTION. WHAT IS STORMWATER POLLU TION? Stormwater pollution is urban runoff water that has picked up pollutants as it flows through the storm drain system-a network of channels, gutters and pipes that collect runoff from city streets, neighborhoods,
farms, construction sites and parking lotsand empties directly into local waterways. Unlike sewage, which goes to treatment plants, urban runoff flows untreated through the storm drain system. Anything thrown, swept or poured into the street, gutter or a catch basin (the curbside openings that lead into the storm drain system) can flow directly into our channels, creeks, bays and ocean. This includes pollutants like trash, pet waste, cigarette butts, motor oil, anti-freeze, runoff from pesticides and fertilizers, construction debris, paint from brushes and containers rinsed in the gutter and toxic household chemicals. HOW DOES STORMWATER POLLU TION AFFECT OUR RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES? Contaminated urban runoff is an
uncontrolled nonpoint source of pollution into local waters, and may contribute to beach closures. Litter, leaves and other debris clog catch basins, which cause flooding when it rains. Flooding can damage property (cars, buildings and equipment), create health hazards (fleas, mosquitoes and bacteria) and hurt the City’s image as a desirable place to live and work. It is illegal for businesses without a permit to discharge wastewater or other materials into the storm drain system. You can report illegal storm drain dis charge by calling 954-519-1499.
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November 2012
LIEN SEARCH PROCEDURE From the Finance Department
SAME DAY DELIVERY AVAILABLE We’ll help you find the perfect arrangement or gift.
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• Gift Baskets • Sympathy (we deliver to funeral homes & hospitals)
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q a i
A lien search can be an important decision-making tool for buyers and sellers of real estate. A lien search with the City of West Park will provide information on open building permits, permits that have expired before completion and other issues that may require further inquiry with the building department. A lien search will also inform the interested party of active code violations, assessments, fines or other liens that may have been placed on a specific property. Violations, fines, liens and permits may exist on any type of property. In some cases the buyer must decide if the fines, liens, or actions required for a property to come into compliance are an added cost they wish to incur. Code violations, fines and liens are not removed when a property is sold, these actions are attached to the property and stay with the property regardless of the owner. For the relatively small fee of a lien search, a buyer and seller can make informed decisions. In the City of West Park a lien search costs $35. To request a lien search, please follow these steps: 1 – Mail all requests to the Finance Department at 3921 SW 47th Ave, Suite 1008, Davie, FL 33314. 2 – Prepare a $35 check or money order payable to the City of West Park 3 - Mail the check along with a letter requesting a lien search with the following information – Property ID (folio number
that can be found at www.bcpa.net), Property address and current owner’s name. If you have a special form that requires specific information, you can include it as well. 4 – Include in your letter how you wish to receive the information; by fax, email or regular mail (if regular mail, enclose a self addressed stamped envelope) or a combination of the above. 5 – We have a 3-5 business day turnaround on the responses, but very often we are able to respond the next day. 6 – You may fax a copy of your request to us at 954-903-0712, but we will not release our response until we receive the check in the mail. Other liens may also be attached to a piece of real property and most of these liens are recorded in the Broward County records. Some lines, like a water bill, do not have to be recorded, and usually aren’t. Lien letters (or letters of estoppel) are usually sent to Homeowners’ Associations, Condominium Associations, the local municipality, the local government-owned water and sewer utility (Broward County Utilities serves properties within the City of West Park), and other local governments such as drainage districts. Because this can be a complex process for many, most people rely upon their attorney or closing agent to research property for liens. For more information regarding lien searches you may contact the Finance Department at 954-903-0712.
November 2012
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Hectorr Wiltz,, MD.,, CPI Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami
Do you or someone you know have Facial Acne? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 12 to 35 years of age that suffer from Facial Acne, to participate in an eight [8] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $800.00.
¿Tienee ustedd o alguienn quee ustedd conozcaa Acnéé Facial? FXM Research en Miami está buscando hombres y mujeres de 12 a 35 años de edad que sufran de Acné Facial, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere ocho [8] visitas. No se requiere seguro médico para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos bajo investigación sin costo alguno. • Reembolso por tiempo y transporte hasta $800.00.
For more information please call / Para más información por favor llame:
(305) 220-5222
11760 0 Bird d Road,, Suite e 452
Miami,, Florida a 33175 5 • www.fxmresearch.com m
Hectorr Wiltz,, MD.,, CPI. Board Certified Dermatologist FXM Research Miami
Do you or someone you know have Toenail Fungus? FXM Research in Miami is looking for males and females 18 to 70 years of age that suffer from Toenail Fungus, to participate in a fifteen [15] study-visit clinical research study. Medical Insurance is not required for study participation. Qualified participants will receive: • Evaluation by a Board Certified Dermatologist. • Investigational Study Medication at no cost. • Reimbursement for time and travel up to USD $950.00.
¿Tienee ustedd o alguienn quee ustedd conozcaa Hongoss Enn Lass Uñass Dee Loss Pies? FXM Research en Miami está buscando hombres y mujeres de 18 a 70 años de edad que sufran de Hongos En Las Uñas De Los Pies, para participar en un estudio clínico de investigación que requiere quince [15] visitas. No se requiere seguro médico para su participación en el estudio. Los participantes que califiquen recibirán: • Evaluaciones por un Dermatólogo Certificado. • Los medicamentos bajo investigación sin costo alguno. • Reembolso por su tiempo y transporte hasta $950.00.
For more information please call / Para más información por favor llame:
(305) 220-5222
11760 0 Bird d Road,, Suite e 452
Miami,, Florida a 33175 5 • www.fxmresearch.com m
November 2012
***ATTENTION: PROPERTY OWNERS*** City of West Park Offers Code Enforcement Liens And Accrued Fines Amnesty Program The City of West Park has established a period of Code Enforcement Liens and Accrued Fines Amnesty that would address the back-log of liens on record/daily fines accruing and sought to provide relief to the property owners. Also, this Code Enforcement Liens and Accrued Fines Amnesty Program will be beneficial in achieving the goal of compliance and it will further serve a public benefit by increasing property value throughout the city. The following are the City’s criteria for the Code Enforcement Liens and Accrued Fines Amnesty Program: 1. Applications will be accepted for a program for 6 months, until February 28, 2013 and payment of all liens must occur prior to April 30, 2013. 2. All property violations on the property must be in compliance and there cannot be any other active code enforcement cases with ongoing violations on the subject property owner in the City. 3. All Unsafe Structures Board liens on any property owned by the property owner in the City must be paid in full prior to being approved for participation in the program. 4. Eligible liens or fines must exceed $1,000 and the liens or fines must not have been under an order of the City’s Special Magistrate to reduce the subject liens or fines. 5. The property owner must submit a Code Enforcement Liens and Accrued Fines Amnesty Program Application and Participation Agreement for each lien or fine on the property by February 28, 2013.
The property owner shall pay a $50 nonrefundable application fee per property. 6. After verifying that the property owner is eligible for participation in the program, the City will approve the application and administratively reduce the amount required to satisfy the eligible liens or fines to fifteen percent (15%) of the face value of the liens or fines, plus the cost of lien preparation and recording. 7. The property owner must pay the City by cashier’s check or money order only and the total of the following must be paid by April 30, 2012: a. The reduced value of the eligible lien(s) or fine(s) on the property; and/or b. The unreduced face value of any lien under $1,000; and/or c. The fuyll amount due for any lien or fine that was reduced by order of the Special Magistrate; and/or d. The cost per lien or lien preparation and recording 8. After the property owner has paid the total sum due prior to April 30, 2012, the city will execute and record a release of lien(s). 9. Failure of the property owner to pay the total sum due to April 30, 2013 shall result in the approved lien reductions being null and void, and the property will be liable for the entire face value of the liens or fines as if no reductions had ever been imposed. For more information about the Code Enforcement Liens and Accrued Fines Amnesty Program, please call City Hall at 954-989-2688.
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RECENT CITY EVENTS
November 2012 Continued from previous page
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RECENT CITY EVENTS
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Miami International Auto Show promises whole new ride in 2012
Miami Auto Show Honda accord EX-L-6Coupe ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
BY LEE STEPHENS
Big changes are in store this year for fans of the South Florida International Auto Show. Most notably, the show will officially change its name to the Miami International Auto Show (MIAS), paying homage to the alluring destination it has called home for the last 42 years. The show also will be sporting a whole new look, complete with new exhibits and interactive elements when it opens Nov. 9 for its annual 10-day run at the Miami Beach Convention Center. “We are so excited to unveil the new features of the Miami International Auto Show, and feel the name now truly reflects the culture and history of this time-honored South Beach event,” said show chairman Mario Murgado. Among the new exhibits planned for this year’s show is Eco Experience, which will educate environmentally conscious consumers with cutting-edge displays focused on renewable energy and alternative fuel vehicles. Show-goers will also be able to experience select electric cars inside on the main show floor, during a first-time-ever inside track event. The redesigned show also will debut its first ever “Topless in Miami” exhibit, presented in partnership with the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA). This unique showcase will allow guests to fully experience a convertible car in a picturesque Miami environment, while never leaving the showroom floor. Recognizing the impact of social media, the 2012 show also will offer the hundreds
of thousands of show attendees an opportunity to connect and interact with each other in real time via Twitter. Prominent screens will be displayed at high traffic points across the show floor, encouraging visitors to engage in a conversation about their experience at the Miami Show. In addition to the new exhibits, showgoers can also expect to see returning favorites such as Memory Lane, which will feature American muscle vehicles and a special exhibit showcasing classic automobiles from Havana. In Million Dollar Alley, visitors can fantasize about their ultimate joy toy, a six-figure motorcar. Camp Jeep and an outside test drive program will put visitors behind the wheel of popular new models. “As always at this auto show, car enthusiasts and the general public alike can see and experience hundreds of new cars up close and personal, all under one roof,” said Murgado. “It’s a once-a-year chance to get a glimpse of the newest models and to see what the future of the industry will hold.” Each year, approximately 40 auto manufacturers fill the hall with several hundred new cars, trucks, crossovers and SUVs, making this event one of America’s top five in attendance. The South Florida Automobile Dealers Association, which today comprises more than 190 dealerships in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe counties, has been the official sponsor of the show since its inception in 1971. For more information, call 305-9811448 or go to <www.sfliautoshow.com>.
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Advice for getting through a divorce BY DEBBIE MARTINEZ My ex-husband is always calling me on his weekend with the kids complaining that the kids are not doing chores at his house, talking back to him, etc. I have tried in the past to have us work together on “house rules” so we are consistent in both households but it hasn’t worked. I’m tired of him calling me and demanding that I step in and do something. What can I do? What you can do is tell your ex that on his weekends he needs to handle his household issues with the children. As with anything that has to be conveyed, do it nicely, but firmly. Realistically, him bringing you into the mix to “do something” actually takes the power away from him as a parent. That is between him and his children. I’m not talking about major issues when the two of you should be on the same page, but the day-today “stuff” can frustrate any parent. When he has the children, that is your time to give your mind and nerves a break and to rejuvenate so upon their return you are refreshed and on your game. My ex has taken to picking and choosing what he will and will not follow through on according to my MSA. What can I do, I’m getting overwhelmed and frustrated, not to mention exceedingly angry. This was an agreement we both agreed to. Welcome to the real world. Lesson #1 in the divorce game is whatever you both agreed to doesn’t necessarily translate into following it. My suggestions are as follows: 1) Take a deep breath and don’t let this consume you, because it can if you let it and, quite frankly, that is probably what he wants. 2) When he doesn’t follow through on something, send him an email with the infraction listed in the subject and in a very business like fashion, address the infraction referencing the page and paragraph that clearly outlines his obligation from the MSA. 3) Create
a folder on your desktop for these emails so they are all in one place. 4) The least expensive way to resolve this would be to mediate; but if he is unwilling, I would suggest seeking legal counsel to discuss your options. Just remember that divorce is not fair on many different levels and you can lose a lot of happiness trying to make it so.
My ex has moved on rather quickly and it appears that he hasn’t missed a beat. His business is flourishing, his mistress has moved in with him, they travel all the time and, oh yeah, he got a new car. Meanwhile, I have to start all over and am struggling in every aspect of my life. When is it going to be my time? I hear you and I understand. You, my dear, hold that answer and no one else. Your time starts when you decide it starts. Stop looking over the fence in his backyard and put that energy and focus on your Plan B. First step is to change your thoughts from that of a victim to that of a warrior. You can make a better way for yourself but it begins with one simple thing — your mindset. Change that and brace yourself for an amazing ride.
Note to Self: My life begins with me and no one else. I have the power to direct my destiny. Debbie’s Library – I Will Not Die an Unlived Life by Dawna Markova
Debbie Martinez is a Certified Life Coach specializing in divorce, relationships and women’s issues. She has given workshops on various topics and has offices in South Miami. For more information, go to <www.thepowerofdivorcecoach.com>
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WEST PARK CALENDAR EVENTS
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November 2012
The life in your years BY PAT MORGAN
My dear Aunt Peggy died not long ago after being sick for quite some time. As with any death, those left behind are saddened by her passing. Yet, mixed with those feelings of sadness and loss are also feelings of happiness and joy. Aunt Peggy lived a full, rich life during her 82 years. She was one of those special people who had a way of brightening the lives of others and finding happiness in small pleasures. As often happens when we lose someone close to us, I began to think more about my own life. Experiencing Aunt Peggy’s death was a reminder for me about the importance of being intentional in creating a fulfilling life here and now that I truly enjoy. Few people at the end of their lives say that they wish they would have spent more time working, worrying and agonizing over life. Most of them say things like, I wish I would have taken more risks and tried more things, I wish I would have told others how much I care about them more often, I wish I would have worried less, I wish I would have gone for my dream. Lincoln once said, “It’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” Every day is a gift and a new opportunity to choose life. What will you do today to put more life in your years? • Reconnect with your dreams — In the nitty-gritty of daily life, it is easy to lose sight of what is most important to you. What is your dream for your life? Travel? Start your own business? Write a book? Take up a new hobby, sport or activity? Run for office? Sing? Dance? Make an impact on the world? Ask yourself: What is my dream for my life?
• Do something every day for your dream — Make it a priority to do one thing every day that will move you closer to your dream. Great success comes from consistently doing the little things that eventually grow to be big accomplishments. Ask yourself: What is one thing I will do today for my dream? • Enjoy the journey — Life was made for living. Make time to enjoy it along the way. Give yourself permission to do something just for the fun of it. Ask yourself: What will I do today to enjoy life? • Get the support you need to create the life you want — Build in the support you need to make your dreams a reality. Having a mentor or coach can help you stay focused to create the outcomes you most want. Ask yourself: Who will ask to support me in making my dream a reality? If you are ready to make the most of your life and would like to explore how coaching may support you, call me to schedule your discovery session. Here’s to your best life now! Pat Morgan, MBA and professional coach, works with busy professionals to help them become more profitable and productive by capitalizing on their strengths and taking focused action to create powerful change. Call her at 305458-2849, or email <PatMorgan@SmoothSailingSuccess.co m> or visit her website at <www.SmoothSailingSuccess.com>.
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