BY MAYOR ERIC H. JONES JR. S pring blessings from all at City Hall as we wish you, your family, friends and loved ones an enjoy- able season as we contin- ue to seek great opportu- nities 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 pend- ing. We are excited to bring you informa- tion 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 educa- tion 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 A bill redefining the communication tax making in no longer applicable to digital services pass both houses unanimously.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 eco- nomic incentive to be controlled by the Governor. 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 test- ing of state workers. 3. REAPPORTIONMENT Under a new set of constitution rules designed to prevent legislators from pro- tecting partisan interest or incumbents, the legislature passed Senate, House and Congressional. The courts ruled the sena- APRIL 2012 www.communitynewspapers.com WEST PARK NEWS W E S T P A R K C I T Y O F F I C I A L S WHO’S WHO In City Government 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 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See SPRING, page 3 Community Newspapers Happy Spring Greetings! Pictured from L to R: Commissioner Thomas Dorsett; Vice Mayor Felicia Brunson; Mayor Eric Jones; Ms. Edith Lederberg, of the Aging and Disability Resource Center; Commissioner Rita Mack; and Commissioner Sharon Fyffe. WEST PARK RECEIVES AWARD FROM AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER OF BROWARD COUNTY 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.
Transcript
BY MAYOR ERIC H. JONES JR.
S pring blessingsfrom all at CityHall as we wish
you, your family, friendsand loved ones an enjoy-able season as we contin-ue to seek great opportu-nities for West Park!
Spring casts its magical spell over all. Thefarmer, with his Almanac in hand, is smilingagain. The golfer comes out of hibernation.The birds begin their song again and eventhe woodpecker taps out his disharmony.All creation is alive in spring. Resurrectionlife abounds. In the words of Job, “Thoughthe root thereof wax old in the earth, and thestock thereof die in the ground; Yet throughthe scent of water it will bud, and bringforth boughs like a plant.”
In this article I intend to share someinformation with you concerning legislativeactions that have taken place and are pend-ing. We are excited to bring you informa-tion regarding many Florida House andSenate Bills that can affect your life.
Two thousand and fifty two bills werefiled and a $70 billion budget was passedduring the 2012 Legislative Session. Ofthose, only 292 passed both chambers.Below is a summary of the major issues andbills covered during the session.
11.. BBUUDDGGEETT,, FFIINNAANNCCEESS AANNDD TTAAXXEESSFacing a $2 billion budget shortfall
early on, the legislature passed a $70 billionbudget. Universities, hospitals and prisonsfaced the most severe cuts. PreK-12 educa-tion saw the largest increase. The corporateincome tax was increase from $25,000 to$50,000. The Board of Administration wasgiven access to sell $150 million a year intax credit to support the Florida HurricaneCatastrophe Fund. A bill supported by brickand mortar businesses to collect internetsales tax from online retailers was defeated.A bill redefining the communication taxmaking in no longer applicable to digitalservices pass both houses unanimously.Roughly $101 million was allocated for eco-nomic incentive to be controlled by theGovernor.
22.. SSTTAATTEE AANNDD LLOOCCAALL GGOOVVEERRNNMMEENNTTA plan to change state employee health
coverage failed. A bill that increased theChief Financial Officer’s authority overprocurement was amended to now requiredetails of state contracts to be postedonline. An employee retirement bill thatwould have changed the retirement age forpolice and firefighters was defeated and thelegislature passed a bill requiring drug test-ing of state workers.
33.. RREEAAPPPPOORRTTIIOONNMMEENNTTUnder a new set of constitution rules
designed to prevent legislators from pro-tecting partisan interest or incumbents, thelegislature passed Senate, House andCongressional. The courts ruled the sena-
WEST PARK RECEIVES AWARD FROMAGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER
OF BROWARD COUNTY
The City Commission was recently awarded a 5 Year Full Fair ShareAdvocacy 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 ResourceCenter of Broward County, presented the Commission members with a plaque
at the March 21, 2012 City Commission meeting.
For more information please callCity Hall at 954-989-2688
Page 2 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM April 2012
torial map invalid. The legislature con-vened a special session to recreate theinvalid senatorial map. A court hearing isexpected on the congressional map soon.
44.. TTRRAANNSSPPOORRTTAATTIIOONNThe legislature allocated $135 million
for Florida’s seaports. $200 million inlicensee fees was used to shore up the budg-et shortfall. In future years, $10 million isexpected to be allocated for seaports, $35million to the Florida Turnpike Enterprise,$10 million to the TransportationDisadvantaged Fund, and $10 million toroad projects. A measure to consolidate thestate’s seven expressway authorities failed.Measures to repeal red light cameras and toprevent texting while driving were alsodefeated. A bill passed allowing the testingand studying of autonomous automobiles.
55.. IINNSSUURRAANNCCEEA bill aimed at curbing bad-faith-law-
suits died in subcommittee. Measures toshrink Citizens Property Insurance Corp.and reduce coverage in the FloridaHurricane Catastrophe Fund also failed.However, a proposal to change the state’sno-fault system also knows as PersonalInjury Protection (PIP) passed during thefinal hours of session. Attorney fees are nolonger eligible to be multiplied by judges.The amount of non-emergency services pri-mary care providers are eligible for hasbeen reduced from $10,000 to $2,500. Aban on state employees’ children participat-ing in the Florida KidCare Program wasremoved.
66.. GGAAMMIINNGGA major gaming bill that would have
brought three large destination casinos toSouth Florida failed. Bills to ban and regu-lated internet cafes were also defeated.
77.. EEDDUUCCAATTIIOONNGovernor Scott requested the addition
of $1 billion for PreK-12 Education. Thisplan would make up for the $1.3 billion cutreceived by schools during the previous yearand the 30,000 new students in the 2012-2013 school year. Per pupil funding wasraised from $6,225 to $6,375. $130 millionin additional funding was allocated for read-ing instruction and $37.4 million for virtualeducation. Colleges and Universities facedmajor cuts in the 2012 general appropria-tions allocation. A measure allowing parentsof children attending charter school to closefailing schools and a measure to increasecapital funding to charter schools bothfailed. Florida Polytechnic University, cur-rently a part of the University of SouthFlorida, was created in statute laying theground work for a new state university.
88.. EENNEERRGGYYA measure creating a tax break for home-
owners who made improvements on theirhome related to renewable energy failed. Abill that exempts landowners who sell elec-tricity to tenants from being regulated failed.A bill to repeal the state and federal require-ments of that motor fuel contain 10 percentethanol failed. A measure to repeal a 2008law directing the Florida Department ofEnvironment Protection to propose carboncap-and-trade program passed.
A proposal allowing utilities to devel-op renewable energy projects of up to 75megawatts per year was stripped for themajor energy bill that passed the legisla-ture. The bill includes a $16 million inrenewable energy tax credits for the Salesand Use Tax Exemption for RenewableEnergy Technologies, the RenewableEnergy Technologies Investment TaxCredit and the Florida Renewable EnergyProduction Credit. The bill also allow localgovernments to use their infrastructure sur-tax to provide loans, grants or rebates to res-idential or commercial property owners whomake energy efficiency improvements.And finally, the bill directs the FloridaDepartment of Agriculture and ConsumerService to identify wood or other biomassfor sustainable use and provides $250,000to the Public Service Commission to studythe Florida Energy Efficiency andConservation Act.
99.. EENNVVIIRROONNMMEENNTTA bill to repeal the 2010 requirement
for septic tanks inspections passed. Anotherbill waiving the water quality rules proposeby the Florida Department of EnvironmentProtection. Measure exempt landownersfrom wetland regulation for participating inenvironmental water storage programspassed. $8.3 million was allocation toFlorida Forever; $30 million was allocatedto Everglades’ restoration; $5 million wasallocated to northern Everglades; $10 mil-lion was allocated to beach sand restorationprojects; and $125 million for petroleumcontamination sites.
HB 7087 is a comprehensive econom-ic development bill that increases the cur-rent corporate income tax exemption fromnet income from $25,000 to $50,000,exempting approximately 5,000 new busi-nesses from the corporate income tax. Thebill permits specified counties to apply fordesignation of enterprise zones. The legis-lation modifies the number of qualifiedemployees that businesses must have in
certain circumstances to be eligible for taxcredits. The bill includes nearly two-dozenseparate economic development provisionsincluding: enhanced sales-tax breaks formanufacturers that purchase machinery andother equipment and for airplane-repairbusinesses; new sales-tax breaks for gas-turbine and aircraft-engine manufacturersand for taxicab and shuttle companies thatbuy handicap-accessible vehicles; sales-taxexemptions for electricity used in cattle- orhog-meat packinghouses as well as electric-ity used in fruit or vegetable packinghous-es; and reduced severance-tax rates forcompanies that mine phosphate rock or drillfor oil in older, onshore wells. Languagerequiring local governments to grant a pref-erence for printing services was strippedfrom the bill.
CS/CS HB 7117 requires utilities toaddress existing and proposed renewableenergy production and purchases in their10-year site plan. The bill allows local gov-ernments, by referendum, to issue rebatesto residential or commercial property own-ers who make energy efficiency improve-ments to their residential or commercialproperty from the local government infra-structure surtax.
b…Reclaimed Water
HB 639 provides that reclaimed wateris an alternative water supply and eligiblefor such funding. The bill prohibits watermanagement districts from requiring per-mits for the use of reclaimed water and pro-hibits water management districts fromrequiring or restricting services provided byreuse utilities.
c…Water Resource Permitting
CS/HB 7003 requires the Departmentof Environmental Protection, in coordina-tion with water management districts, todevelop statewide resource permitting rulesfor activities relating to management andstorage of surface waters. Local govern-ments may adopt more stringent standardsthan the state rule.
d…Beach Nourishment
CS/HB 691 authorizes DEP to issuepermits and adopt rules involving excava-tion and placement of sediment onFlorida’s beaches. The bill also provideslegislative intent with regard to permittingfor the periodic maintenance of beach nour-ishment projects.
e…Regulatory Streamlining
CS/CS/CS/CS/HB 503 is a compre-hensive regulatory streamlining bill thatamong other things, prohibit municipalitiesfrom requiring that an applicant obtain astate or federal permit prior to the issuanceof a local permit. The bill reduces and orwaives processing fees for municipalitieswith a population of 25,000 or less, or foran entity created by special act, local ordi-nance or interlocal agreement. The bill pro-vides for a two year extension for anybuilding permit issued by the FloridaDepartment of Environmental Protection,water management district and includes anylocal development order or building permitthat has an expiration date of January 1,2012 through January 1, 2014.
f…Septic Tanks
CS/CS/CS/HB 1263 a comprehensiveDepartment of Health reorganization bill,included language from HB 999/SB 820repealing the statewide septic tank inspec-tion program administered by theDepartment of Health. The bill allowsmunicipalities to adopt septic tank inspec-tion programs provided they comply withcertain restrictions set forth in the bill. Thebill allows municipalities having a firstmagnitude spring to opt out of the inspec-tion program, and allows all other munici-palities to opt in to the inspection program.Any septic tank inspection program in anymunicipality enacted prior to July 1, 2011 isgrandfathered except no local ordinancecan require a septic tank inspection at thepoint of sale.
CS/HB 809 revises definitions relatingto bundling of services which are taxed bythe Communications Services Tax (CST).The bill revises language that governs theassignment of customers to local taxingjurisdictions for the purpose of imposingthe applicable local communications serv-ices tax to modify the liability of a commu-nications services tax dealer in the event ofunderpayment of the tax resulting from thedealer assigning a service address to theincorrect local taxing jurisdiction. CS/HB809 creates the Communication ServicesTax Work Group which is comprised offour local government representatives, fourindustry representatives and theDepartment of Revenue as the non-votingchair. The Work Group will review theimpact of the changes contained in CS/HB809 as well as make recommendations ofhow to modernize and simplify this impor-tant revenue source. We believe that in thelong run, the fact that we share this revenuesource with the State offers significant pro-
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April 2012 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM Page 3
Continued on page 5
Page 4 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM April 2012
BY VICE MAYOR FELICIA M. BRUNSON
AAllaarrmmiinngg nneewwss bbuutt ttrruuee……..
In the United States, more than 4,100people will hear the devastating words,“You have cancer.”
More than 1,500 families willlose a loved one to the disease in theUnited States.
About 1,638,910 new cancer cases are expected to bediagnosed in 2012.
In 2012, about 577,190 Americans are expected to dieof cancer, more than 1,500 people a day.
Cancer is the second most common cause of death inthe US, exceeded only by heart disease, accounting fornearly 1 of every 4 deaths.
Lack of health insurance and other barriers preventsmany Americans from receiving optimal health care.According to the US Census Bureau, almost 51 millionAmericans were uninsured in 2009; almost one-third ofHispanics (32%) and one in 10 children (17 years of ageand younger) had no health insurance coverage.Uninsured patients and those from ethnic minorities aresubstantially more likely to be diagnosed with cancer at alater stage, when treatment can be more extensive andmore costly.
An estimated 226,870 new cases of invasive breastcancer are expected to occur among women in the USduring 2012; about 2,190 new cases are expected in men.Excluding cancers of the skin, breast cancer is the mostfrequently diagnosed cancer in women.
An estimated 39,920 breast cancer deaths (39,510women, 410 men) are expected in 2012. Breast cancerranks second as a cause of cancer death in women (afterlung cancer).
An estimated 12,060 new cases are expected to occuramong children 0 to 14 years of age in 2012. Childhoodcancers are rare, representing less than 1% of all new can-cer diagnoses.
An estimated 103,170 cases of colon and 40,290cases of rectal cancer are expected to occur in 2012.Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer inboth men and women. An estimated 51,690 deaths fromcolorectal cancer are expected to occur in 2012, account-ing for 9% of all cancer deaths.
An estimated 64,770 new cases of kidney (renal) can-cer are expected to be diagnosed in 2012. An estimated13,570 deaths from kidney cancer are expected to occurin 2012.
An estimated 47,150 new cases of leukemia areexpected in 2012. An estimated 23,540 deaths are expect-ed to occur in 2012.
An estimated 28,720 new cases of liver cancer areexpected to occur in the US during 2012. An estimated20,550 liver cancer deaths (6,570 women, 13,980 men)are expected in 2012. From 2004 to 2008, death rates forliver cancer increased by 2.2% per year in men and werestable in women. Incidence and mortality rates are morethan twice as high in men as in women.
An estimated 226,160 new cases of lung cancer areexpected in 2012, accounting for about 14% of cancerdiagnoses. Lung cancer accounts for more deaths thanany other cancer in both men and women. An estimated160,340 deaths, accounting for about 28% of all cancer
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 forabout 3% of all cancers among women. An estimated15,500 deaths are expected in 2012. Ovarian cancer caus-es more deaths than any other cancer of the female repro-ductive system.
An estimated 43,920 new cases of pancreatic cancerare expected to occur in the US in 2012. An estimated37,390 deaths are expected to occur in 2012, about thesame number in women (18,540) as in men (18,850).
An estimated 241,740 new cases of prostate cancerwill occur in the US during 2012. Prostate cancer is themost frequently diagnosed cancer in men aside from skincancer. For reasons that remain unclear, incidence ratesare significantly higher in African Americans than inwhites, 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 cancerdeath in men.
African Americans are more likely to develop and diefrom cancer than any other racial or ethnic group. Thedeath rate for cancer among African American males is33% higher than among white males; for AfricanAmerican females, it is 16% higher than among whitefemales. African American men have higher incidenceand mortality rates than whites for each of the cancer
Hispanics have lower incidence rates for all cancerscombined and for most common types of cancer com-pared to whites, but have higher rates of cancers associat-ed with infection, such as liver, stomach, and uterinecervix. For example, Hispanic women have the highestincidence rate for cervical cancer, and rates of liver can-cer are about twice as high in Hispanics as in whites.
Now let me get personal……
The picture attached to this article is my belovedgrandmother, Sara Mae Brunson, whom I love with everyinch of my soul. The day she found out she had cancerwas the day when I began this journey. The road was very
rough for her. She lost both her breasts. As she wentthrough chemotherapy, her hair fell out. I remembergoing to the beauty supply store to look for a wig for her.Because of the immense pain she was in, someone had toconstantly be available to take her to the doctor or sit withher. I remember the day hospice was called in and feelingso frustrated for lack of knowledge of the many servicesavailable to her. My family and I didn’t know how tofight 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 prom-ised her that her life would not be in vain and that I woulddo everything in my human power that I could to ensurethat the next family’s fight would be better than ours.That’s why I relay....
Today more than 11 million cancer survivors areenjoying rewarding, productive lives.
Now I ask you: Do you know someone whose life wastouched by cancer? Will you relay? I hope youanswered yes!
Join the City of West Park as we participate in ourAAnnnnuuaall RReellaayy ffoorr LLiiffee WWaallkk ffoorr CCaanncceerr oonn FFrriiddaayy,, AApprriill2277tthh aatt 66ppmm tthhrroouugghh SSaattuurrddaayy,, AApprriill 2288tthh aatt nnoooonn.. TheRelay will take place at McTyre Park located 3501 SW56th Ave. This year’s theme is Mardi Gras! There will bebands parading on the track, Mardi Gras beads tossed andplenty of beautiful masks. For cancer survivors a specialceremony will be held for you and your caretaker. If youexperienced a lost due to cancer, come light a candle inhonor of that loved one. If you are a vendor, volunteerand/or if you have a group/team/ organization that wantto walk please come out. There will be plenty of food andfamily fun. There will also be a children’s fun zone. Allto educate and empower everyone about cancer!
Cancer does not discriminate, and no one is immune.Cancer can strike any family, in any community, at anytime. And the only way to fight it is to be at the West ParkRelay for Life and with those families … every singleday. Cancer never sleeps so on April 27th -28th- wewon’t either. That’s the great strength of our City andsurrounding community partners! We are here to helpevery family … in every community … every day.
CS/HJR 1003 will be on the 2012 gen-eral election ballot. The bill, subject tovoter 60 percent approval in the Novemberelection, creates a targeted exemption fromad valorem on tangible personal propertyfor small businesses. It also authorizescities to provide through a local ordinance,additional TPP relief for businesses.
Finally, we have been informed thatour road designation bill that will designatea strip of 441, from Pembroke Road toCounty Line Road, as West Park Boulevard
was delivered to the Governor’s OfficeFriday evening. He has 15 days to act onthe bill. His signature is the final approvalneeded before the designation becomesofficial.
TTHHOOUUGGHHTT:: The onset of spring is set forthas a glorious picture of renewal for all.Remember how the darkness Is followed bythe light, How warm and sunny days Comeafter each long night, How Springtime fol-lows Winter And the rainbow cloaks therain; In the same way even life’s sadmoments Soon turn to joy again.
Profiling: What willwe do when it comesknocking on ourdoor?
I sit and look at myown son and thinkabout the young man,Trayvon Martin, and
ponder whether it is no longer safe to walkthe streets of our cities. We as a people, andas a nation, need to question the values andmorals that we are teaching our children.Personally, I also question police officers’actions and I question the actions of thosewho do illegal activities within the citiesthat we are working so hard to build.
I challenge everyone to be vigilant andlook out for our children. There was noexcuse for the way Trayvon Martin wasgunned down. I take some comfort in mybelief that God was watching his everymove. He could not have known his lifewould result in the current turmoil in ourcountry; however it is my hope that in thelong run, this may result in the bettermentof our nation.
I extend condolences to the parents ofTrayvon Martin and the others who mournhim. The more we try to support each other,the better encouragers we will become.
One of the greatest deliverances people canever experience in life is to have their atti-tudes changed. I believe the tragic circum-stances surrounding Trayvon Martin is areason and a call for us to pray.
My door is always open and I amavailable to you. If you need to meet withme or talk, please contact me at954.889.4156.
REMEMBERING TRAYVON MARTIN….THOUGHTS FROM A CONCERNED MOTHER
Most of the 441 corridor within theCity of West Park is within what is called
the Transit Oriented Corridor (TOC).The purpose of this corridor is to provideof mix retail, restaurant, services, smallemployment uses and residential useswithin a short distance of transit facili-ties. The City’s zoning code for the
TOC specifies building architecturalstyles to ensure new development isattractive for residents, visitors, andbusiness customers. In order toensure new buildings are paintedappropriate, attractive and compati-ble colors, the City Commissionapproved an ordinance on March21, 2012 to require all new build-ings and existing buildings usepaint within the West Park TransitOriented Corridor Color Palette.
At least two colors from theapproved TOC Color Palette mustappear on each frontage (the part ofthe building facing the road).Before painting a building in theTOC, the paint color must be regis-tered with the City. An applica-tion for the registration is availableon the City’s website. Propertyowners are required to review theTOC Color Palette and register thecolor before painting their build-ing. The color palette can beviewed at City Hall.The TOC Color Palette reflects the
City’s desire to create an attractivebusiness atmosphere that reflects theCity’s motto: “The City of PositiveProgression.”
See us online at:www.communitynewspapers.com
April 2012 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM Page 7
• • • RECENT EVENTS • • •
Page 8 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM April 2012
• • • RECENT EVENTS • • •
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.
Pictured from L to R: Commissioner Thomas Dorsett; Vice Mayor Felicia Brunson;Mayor Eric Jones; Briana Cooper; Commissioner Rita “Peaches” Mack; andCommissioner Sharon Fyffe
BBEO Chair, West Park Mayor, Eric Jones, delivers the invocation with Mistressof Ceremonies Tamara Gant looking on.
Comedian Alonzo Bodden & West ParkCommissioner Thomas Dorsett
Pictured from L to R: Loretta Devine &Vice Mayor Felicia Brunson(BBEO Event Photos by Norman’s Photoland)
Briana Cooper receives a commendation and gifts from the City Commission andmembers of the Fire Department, Station 27.
On March 21, 2012, the City Commission and emergency responders from the FireDepartment, 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.
April 2012 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM Page 9
From the Parks and Recreation Department
On Wednesday, March 14, 2012, TheParks and Recreation Department held itsannual Bike Safety/Awareness Day.Since March is Bicycle Month throughoutthe State of Florida, in partnership withBroward County Park & Recreation, theCity provided this wonderful event for res-idents. Participants of all ages learnedabout bicycle safety, pedestrian safety,how to safely cross the street, and why it isimportant to wear a helmet at all times.
Every participant received a free hel-met to take home with them that was prop-erly fit to ensure maximum safety.Children also received activity books,bookmarks, bike license plates, and sever-al give-a-ways to help them remember tobe safe when on a bike or walking. Thehelmet donations were made possible by
the generous support of the Children’sServices Council and the EpilepsyFoundation. Additional giveaway items,event extras, and event support were madepossible by Broward County Parks &Recreation, The Safety Resource Center atthe University of Florida, The FloridaDepartment of Transportation, SouthFlorida Regional TransportationAuthority, The Walk Safe/Bike Safe Kid’sNeuroscience Center at the University ofMiami, and Marlene Allen of Child SafeKits.
All participants walked away from theprogram with a greater appreciation forriding a bike and how to do so safely at alltimes.
Stress management starts with identi-fying the sources of stress in your life. Thisisn’t as easy as it sounds. Your true sourcesof stress aren’t always obvious, and it’s alltoo easy to overlook your own stress-inducing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.Sure, you may know that you’re constant-ly worried about work deadlines. Butmaybe it’s your procrastination, rather thanthe actual job demands, that leads to dead-line stress.
Learn about hidden sources of stressTo identify your true sources of stress,
look closely at your habits, attitude, andexcuses:• Do you explain away stress as temporary(“I just have a million things going on rightnow”) even though you can’t rememberthe last time you took a breather? • Do you define stress as an integral part ofyour work or home life (“Things arealways crazy around here”) or as a part ofyour personality (“I have a lot of nervousenergy, that’s all”). • Do you blame your stress on other peopleor outside events, or view it as entirely nor-mal and unexceptional?
Until you accept responsibility for therole you play in creating or maintaining it,your stress level will remain outside yourcontrol.
Look at how you currently cope withstress Think about the ways you cur-rently manage and cope with stress in yourlife. Your stress journal can help you iden-tify them. Are your coping strategieshealthy or unhealthy, helpful or unproduc-tive? Unfortunately, many people copewith stress in ways that compound theproblem.
Unhealthy ways of coping with stressThese coping strategies may tem-
porarily reduce stress, but they cause moredamage in the long run:
• Smoking • Drinking too much • Overeating or under eating • Zoning out for hours in front of the TV orcomputer • Withdrawing from friends, family, andactivities • Using pills or drugs to relax • Sleeping too much • Procrastinating • Filling up every minute of the day toavoid facing problems • Taking out your stress on others (lashingout, angry outbursts, physical violence)
Learning healthier ways to managestress
If your methods of coping with stressaren’t contributing to your greater emo-tional and physical health, it’s time to findhealthier ones. There are many healthyways to manage and cope with stress, butthey all require change. You can eitherchange the situation or change your reac-tion. When deciding which option tochoose, it’s helpful to think of the four As:avoid, alter, adapt, or accept.
Since everyone has a unique responseto stress, there is no “one size fits all” solu-tion to managing it.No single methodworks for everyoneor in every situation,so experiment withdifferent techniquesand strategies. Focuson what makes you feel calm and in con-trol.
Not all stress can be avoided, and it’snot healthy to avoid a situation that needsto be addressed. You may be surprised,however, by the number of stressors inyour life that you can eliminate.
Learn how to say “no” –– Know your lim-its and stick to them. Whether in your per-sonal or professional life, refuse to acceptadded responsibilities when you’re close toreaching them. Taking on more than youcan handle is a surefire recipe for stress.
Avoid people who stress you out – Ifsomeone consistently causes stress in yourlife and you can’t turn the relationshiparound, limit the amount of time you spendwith that person or end the relationshipentirely.
Take control of your environment – Ifthe evening news makes you anxious, turnthe TV off. If traffic’s got you tense, take alonger but less-traveled route. If going tothe market is an unpleasant chore, do yourgrocery shopping online.
Avoid hot-button topics – If you get upsetover religion or politics, cross them offyour conversation list. If you repeatedlyargue about the same subject with the samepeople, stop bringing it up or excuse your-self when it’s the topic of discussion.
Pare down your to-do list – Analyze yourschedule, responsibilities, and daily tasks.If you’ve got too much on your plate, dis-tinguish between the “shoulds” and the“musts.” Drop tasks that aren’t truly neces-sary to the bottom of the list or eliminatethem 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’tpresent itself in the future. Often, thisinvolves changing the way you communi-cate and operate in your daily life.
Express your feelings instead of bottlingthem up. If something or someone is both-ering you, communicate your concerns inan open and respectful way. If you don’tvoice your feelings, resentment will buildand the situation will likely remain thesame.
Be willing to compromise. When you asksomeone to change their behavior, be will-ing to do the same. If you both are willingto bend at least a little, you’ll have a goodchance of finding a happy middle ground.
Be more assertive. Don’t take a backseatin your own life. Deal with problems headon, doing your best to anticipate and pre-vent them. If you’ve got an exam to studyfor and your chatty roommate just gothome, say up front that you only have fiveminutes to talk.
Manage your time better. Poor time man-agement can cause a lot of stress. Whenyou’re stretched too thin and runningbehind, it’s hard to stay calm and focused.But if you plan ahead and make sure youdon’t overextend yourself, you can alterthe amount of stress you’re under.
If you can’t change the stressor,change yourself. You can adapt to stressfulsituations and regain your sense of controlby changing your expectations and atti-tude.
Reframe problems. Try to view stressfulsituations from a more positive perspec-tive. Rather than fuming about a trafficjam, look at it as an opportunity to pauseand regroup, listen to your favorite radiostation, or enjoy some alone time.
Look at the big picture. Take perspectiveof the stressful situation. Ask yourself howimportant it will be in the long run. Will itmatter in a month? A year? Is it reallyworth getting upset over? If the answer isno, focus your time and energy elsewhere.
Adjust your standards. Perfectionism is amajor source of avoidable stress. Stop set-ting yourself up for failure by demandingperfection. Set reasonable standards foryourself and others, and learn to be okaywith “good enough.”
Focus on the positive. When stress is get-ting you down, take a moment to reflect onall the things you appreciate in your life,including your own positive qualities andgifts. This simple strategy can help you
keep things in perspective.
Some sources of stress are unavoid-able. You can’t prevent or change stressorssuch as the death of a loved one, a seriousillness, or a national recession. In suchcases, the best way to cope with stress is toaccept things as they are. Acceptance maybe difficult, but in the long run, it’s easierthan railing against a situation you can’tchange.
DDoonn’’tt ttrryy ttoo ccoonnttrrooll tthhee uunnccoonnttrroollllaabbllee..Many things in life are beyond our con-trol— particularly the behavior of otherpeople. Rather than stressing out overthem, focus on the things you can controlsuch as the way you choose to react toproblems.
LLooookk ffoorr tthhee uuppssiiddee.. As the saying goes,“What doesn’t kill us makes us stronger.”When facing major challenges, try to lookat them as opportunities for personalgrowth. If your own poor choices con-tributed to a stressful situation, reflect onthem and learn from your mistakes.
SShhaarree yyoouurr ffeeeelliinnggss.. Talk to a trustedfriend or make an appointment with a ther-apist. Expressing what you’re goingthrough can be very cathartic, even ifthere’s nothing you can do to alter thestressful situation.
LLeeaarrnn ttoo ffoorrggiivvee.. Accept the fact that welive in an imperfect world and that peoplemake mistakes. Let go of anger and resent-ments. Free yourself from negative energyby forgiving and moving on.
Beyond a take-charge approach and apositive attitude, you can reduce stress inyour life by nurturing yourself. If you reg-ularly make time for fun and relaxation,you’ll be in a better place to handle life’sstressors 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 hustleand bustle of life that you forget to takecare of your own needs. Nurturing yourselfis a necessity, not a luxury.
CONTROLLING STRESS IN YOUR LIFE
April 2012 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM Page 11
BBeeffoorree rriiddiinngg::• Make sure your child has the right size helmet andthat he wears it every time when riding, skating orscooting. • Inspect bicycles, scooters and skateboards toensure that reflectors are secure, brakes work prop-erly, gears shift smoothly and tires are tightlysecured and properly inflated.
DDuurriinngg rriiddiinngg: • 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 andride on sidewalks when possible.
AAfftteerr rriiddiinngg:: • Maintain equipment properly.• Safely store bikes in secure and accessible locations
SSaaffeettyy TToooollssThere 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.
WWhhaatt yyoouu''llll nneeeedd::
Bike helmet
Knee and elbow pads
Retroreflective stickers
BIKE SAFETY TIPSFrom the Fire Department
Kenneth Kronheim, District Fire ChiefBroward Sheriff's Office Fire Rescue
Nursing Home Medicaid • Elder Law & Estate PlanningFlorida Medicaid Planning & Eligibility
Asset Protection • Wills, Trusts, Living WillsPowers of Attorney • Guardianships
Probate: Estate Administration
Serving Dade, Broward & Palm Beach CountiesTel.: 305.932.2293 Miami-Dade County
954.760.7077 Broward Countywww.buxtonlaw.com
April 18, 2012
RED LIGHT CAMERA ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What is a red light running violation? A:
Q: Why install red light cameras? A:
Q: How do intersection safety cameras work?A:
Q: Where will the red light cameras be located in West Park?A:
Q: What if the light was yellow?A:
RED LIGHT CAMERA ENFORCEMENT PROGRAMFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
April 2012 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM Page 15
Page 18 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM April 2012
April 2012 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM Page 19
By Susan SmithEvery family arrives at that fork in the
road when estate planning is necessary toprotect the future of aging parents or to se-cure an inheritance for future descendants.The attorneys at Bloomgarden, Goudreauand Rosen, P.A. believe life is complicatedenough and protecting the family shouldnot have to be. In the spirit of estate plan-ning solutions, “The 7 Threats to YourFamily Security” workshop will be heldThursday, March 29 at 5:30pm at TheHampton Inn, 1000 South Federal High-way, Hallandale Beach.“The best way for us to educate our
clients is by having them attend our work-shop where we explain estate planningfrom start to finish and address commonlyheld myths and misinformation. We showwhy everybody needs, at the very least,some form of basic estate planning. Atten-dees learn that failing to plan can lead todisastrous results, especially when somepeople’s idea of estate planning means hav-ing all of your assets titled jointly with aspouse or children,” said attorney andworkshop director Philip C. Rosen.Often accompanied by adult children,
couples approaching their golden years
leave the workshop empowered to beginthe process of planning for the present andtheir future – something they have likelybeen meaning to get to for weeks, months,and sometimes years, according to Rosen.“Estate planning is not just for when youdie, but when you are alive. We dispel ru-mors about how youcan lose your assetsto a nursing homeand outline how wecan help protectthose assets before acrisis arises. Ourclients can rest easyknowing that thereare plans in place ifthe time comeswhen they can nolonger manage theirown affairs.”Bloomgarden, Goudreau and Rosen,
P.A. utilizes proprietary trusts to help pro-tect clients from nursing homes and law-suits. “We are members of a nationwideorganization, Medicaid Practice Network,which gives us access to a large number ofattorneys throughout the country that alsohandle Medicaid Planning and Asset Pro-
tection matters. We are able to collaborateand share ideas so, although we have asmall firm feel, we have the ability to lever-age our network to help our clients find so-lutions,” said Rosen.“The 7 Threats to Your Family Secu-
rity” workshop stresses that everyone’s sit-uation is different.When attendeesmention horror sto-ries told by someonein their retirementcommunity about as-sets being “taken bythe nursing home,”Rosen says that withproper planning, sit-uations like that sim-ply should not haveto occur. Individuals
without long term care insurance may es-pecially benefit from the presentation be-cause it shows that most people canpreserve their assets and allowMedicaid tocover their cost of care if the need to moveto 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 thefamily if long term care is required, andkeep family business private.In addition to helping clients plan to
qualify for Medicaid regardless of thevalue of their assets, Bloomgarden,Goudreau and Rosen, P.A. can also helpclients discover how to take advantage ofVeteran’s Benefits that are available fromthe government to help pay for the cost ofcare at home or a nursing home.“It is a very enjoyable process because
at the end of the day there is a tangible out-come in the definitive results we helpclients achieve. It is right there in black andwhite. It feels great when the clients call usto offer thanks and let us know that theycan rest easy because we understood theirgoals and created a plan to achieve thosegoals,” said Rosen.“The 7 Threats to Your Family Secu-
rity” workshop will be Thursday March 29at 5:30pm at The Hampton Inn across fromGulfstream, 1000 South Federal Highwayin Hallandale Beach. Seating is limited andregistration is required. Call Fredda Fierroat 954-370-2222 to register or reserve on-line at www.medicaidattorneysflorida.com.
Protect your Family with Estate Planning WorkshopPage 20 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM April 2012
April 2012 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM Page 21
BY ANDRE EUGENT,Code Enforcement Officer
The Code Enforcement process beginswhen a code enforcement officer observesa violation, a resident calls in a complaint,a letter or online complaint is received, orother City departments or entities make acomplaint. All complaints are investigatedand verified by a code enforcement officerand if a violation exists, the officer willtake further action toward obtaining volun-tary compliance.
CCoouurrtteessyy && CCiittaattiioonn NNoottiicceessIf a violation exists the Code
Enforcement officer will issue a courtesynotice giving the violator a reasonable timeto correct same. However if the violation isa public health, safety and welfare concern,or a violation that cannot be corrected suchas cutting down a protected tree, the codeenforcement officer will issue a citation toappear in front of the Special Magistrate.
Failure to correct violations within the
specified time period may result in the vio-lator(s) being issued a civil citation toappear in Magistrate Court for each viola-tion.
EExxaammpplleess ooff VViioollaattiioonnss::•• 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 CodeEnforcement Office at 995544..992211..77778811 withany questions. A re-inspection of the prop-erty will take place to determine if the vio-lation(s) have been corrected.
CODE ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURE Never Pay Another Expensive Repair Again
Ly Espinol
Page 22 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM April 2012
BY BARI AUERBACH
In her newest book, ‘Lose 10 Pounds in10 Days’ fitness expert Jackie Warnerreveals a research-backed and client-proven program that isn’t just a quick fixfor losing 10 pounds fast – Warner promis-es it can help you “kickstart a whole newlife of fitness, health and happiness!”
Rather than starving which can lead tobinging, Warner says the key to fast weightloss is to increase calories during the 10-day phases of her plan. She explains foodsthat work best when trying to lose weightinclude grapefruit and apples (containingpectin – a major fat burner). She also sug-gests eating two whole eggs a day to actu-ally help lower cholesterol as well as oat-meal for the fiber and chicken, which hastons of amino acids. Foods she eliminatescompletely include all white flours, allwhite breads, white rice, cookies, pretzels,crackers and croutons.
Beyond choosing the right foods,Warner emphasizes it’s essential to exer-cise daily. “You can make a 20-minuteworkout very effective by combining it intosupersets,” she says. Warner also highlyrecommends cardio-acceleration basedworkouts (short but intense cardio burstsbetween strength training exercises.)
In “Lose 10 Pounds in 10 Days,”Warner promises to provide “A programthat your body will love and you will wantto commit to for a lifetime.” Her plan fea-tures:• A nutrient-rich, all-natural diet to jump-start your metabolism and rev up the fatburning• Exercises to tone and sculpt your body toperfection• Encouragement to turn self-loathing intoself-loving
The “10x10 Program” featured inWarner’s book provides grocery lists,menus, workouts and a simple breakdownof the 10-day phases that is very easy to fol-low. Motivational support is also providedin keeping with some of Warner’s favoritefitness philosophies: “Your goal is to livelife to the fullest – mastering your body isthe first step!” “Change your body – changeyour life!”
To learn more about how people fol-lowing Warner’s “10x10 Program” are nowon the path toward living the fittest happi-est and healthiest life possible or to order“Lose 10 Pounds in Ten Days,” visit jack-iewarner.com. Warner is also the author ofthe New York Times bestseller “This isWhy You’re Fat (and How to Get ThinForever)”; and star trainer of TV shows“Workout” and “Thintervention” on theBravo network.
April 2012 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM Page 23
‘Lose 10 Pounds in 10 Days’Jackie Warner shares secret celeb program for losing weight fast
www.communitynewspapers.com
Page 24 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM April 2012
April 2012 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM Page 25
WEST PARK CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Page 26 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM April 2012
Need to SELL your Home or condo Learn howShort Sale Can Help You Avoid Foreclosure!!!
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Analytical Strategist
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Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration +5 yrs experience. Will work on Corp’s image by
leading an aggressive advertising campaign.Evaluate sales channels to search new clientelein Panama, Colombia and Venezuela. Knowl-
edge of Venezuelan import customs regulationsand tariffs. Will deal with suppliers and
providers of vessel equipment in the US; knowl-edge of foreign exchange bolivares fuertes/usdollars; human resources duties; design busi-
ness plan and marketing strategy; will deal withbanks (experience in banking relations); re-
sponsible for managing accounting, finance andbudgetting planning for a wholetrade business
of vessel equipments (export only). Email resume:
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SPECIAL EDUCATION INSTRUCTIONAL COORDINATOR
MILO INTERNATIONAL CORP. WESTON, FL
Bachelor’s in Special Education mention: Learning Disabilities; + 5 yrs exp. Responsible for organizing &
implementing an instructional program for specific learningdisabilities students; Designing the exceptional student education program; Prepare educational plans for each
student based on individually assessed needs; Will providespecialized 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: [email protected]
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 you’re looking for something to do, inbetween 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 Newsand Sunny Isles Beach Sun.
If you have 15-20 hours a week available andyou want to earn $300 - $500 per week on apart-time basis, then e-mail Michael Miller at
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, thenthis might just be for you. The Aventura News is looking for someone that is confident, hassales experience and knows how to sell newspaper advertising. You can make lots of money,have a good time, and make a difference.
Want to know more about us? Go on a tour www.communitynewspapers.com
For more information about this salaried, plus commission position,call Michael Miller at 305-669-7030 or Email [email protected]
