City of Homestead Mayor and Council and the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) department have joined forces to distribute and install free smoke detectors throughout the community. Through a MDFR grant, Homestead residents are eligible to participate in the smoke detector installation program and receive a ten-year lithium battery and smoke detector. Fire inspectors will come to your home, install the device, as well as give homeowners information on fire safety, appliances, electrical plugs, hazards, or any potential dangers that may cause a fire within their home.
In 2007, former Florida Governor Charlie Crist signed into effect Janelle’s Law, which requires the installation of smoke detectors in all residential dwellings. The goal of this program is to increase the number of homes with operational smoke detectors, decrease injury or death caused by smoke and fire, and help low-income families be prepared in case there is a fire emergency. Recently, a risk assessment was conducted by MDFR’s Management Information Systems Department and it was determined that Homestead is one of several Miami-Dade communities that has elevated fire statistics.
It is recommended by Fire officials to change your battery-operated smoke detectors every ten years and to be vigilant in checking for faulty equipment. Make sure to create and practice an escape plan with your family and identify a meeting place once you have left the affected area. A working smoke detector can triple your chances of surviving a fire. These life-saving devices can give your valuable time to get out safely and protect you and your family.
If you are interested in participating please submit your name, address, city, zip code, and phone to lmarcos@miamidade.gov or call 786-331-4476 for more information.

On Wednesday, September 1, 2010, the City of Homestead’s Parks and Recreation reopened the popular splash pad amenity at James Archer Smith Park located at 300 N.W. 12th Street,
Homestead, FL 33030. For the past year the water park feature has been undergoing renovations to upgrade the structure and meet new state standards. The splash pad is made up of several ground nozzles that spray water upwards onto the deck, creating a fun play area with no standing water.
James Archer Smith Park was officially opened last summer and offers multiple amenities to park patrons. Some of the amenities include a wider walking trail with updated exercise stations, a playground section, pavilions, benches, and two dog park areas. The park was named after longtime, distinguished Homestead resident, Dr. James Archer Smith who dedicated over 50 years of service to the Homestead community.
The new hours of operations for the splash pad will be weekdays from 4 p.m. to sunset and holiday and weekend hours will be from 10 a.m. to sunset. The splash pad is free for all patrons. For the safety and well-being of all guests, there are certain rules and regulations that must be followed when using the splash pad. No animals, food, or glass will be allowed on the deck or the splash pad. Only 10 guests will be allowed at one time on the splash pad and must be wearing bathing suit attire. If you have any further questions or comments, please call City of Homestead’s Parks and Recreation at 305-224-4842.

For details click here

Date: Friday, September 3
Place: Keys Gate Charter High School
1601, SE 28th Ave. (Kingman Road)

After months of interviewing qualified applicants, the City of Homestead has selected Mr. Jordan W. Leonard as Director of its Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). The CRA is responsible for the revitalization of the Community Redevelopment Area, a specific area within Homestead city limits. This department implements strategies and programs to promote community development and undertake projects that enhance both residential and commercial property values.

Mr. Leonard, a native Floridian, has over ten years of political, economic, and governmental experience within the South Florida area. With public sector posts in the Florida House of Representatives, Miami-Dade County’s Task Force on Urban Economic Revitalization and several local municipalities including the Village of El Portal and the City of Opa-locka, Mr. Leonard has earned a positive reputation for implementing new programs and accomplishing difficult tasks, such as the Red Light Camera Program and lowering water and sewer rates for residents. In addition to working in government, Mr. Leonard has also worked for two Fortune 50 companies in the financial services sector and currently holds three securities licenses. Within the community, Mr. Leonard has volunteered his time by serving on numerous boards, committee’s and organizations. Mr. Leonard also currently serves as a Councilman in the Town of Bay Harbor Islands.

Mr. Leonard has a Bachelors of Science degree in political science and history from Florida State University. A product of the Miami-Dade County public school system, he was awarded the Miami Herald’s prestigious Silver Knight Honorable Mention in Business in 1995. Mr. Leonard is married and has a five-month old son.

Mr. Leonard intends to bring his vast knowledge and experience to the residents and business owners of the City of Homestead. By bringing new initiatives and programs to the CRA board for their approval to help increase economic growth and development within the CRA boundaries, Mr. Leonard is optimistic in improving the conditions within the CRA during our nation’s difficult economic period.

“I am honored that the City of Homestead has instilled their faith in me to carry out their mission to improve the quality of life of residents and business owners within the CRA during this critical time and accomplish many great things for Homestead,” stated Mr. Leonard.

Miami-Dade County Commission Chairman Dennis C. Moss and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, will hold an immigration information session at the Phichol Williams Community Center, 951 S.W. 4th Street in Homestead on Thursday, August 19, 2010
7:00PM– 9:00PM. Joined by the Mexican-American Council and Radio RCH, the U.S. Citizenships and Immigration Services, USCIS, will share information to help constituents work through the naturalization process, obtain legal permanent status and other immigration concerns. For more information, contact Unita Gustave at 305-245-4420.

Homestead City leaders came together to show their support and help local organizations in their efforts to get underprivileged students ready for the new school year.

On Friday, August 6, 2010, City of Homestead Councilman and Education Chair Elvis Maldonado joined forces with the Start Off Smart and Weed and Seed organizations to get students ready for the new school year. Families lined up at the Phichol Williams Center to receive colorful backpacks filled with essential school supplies. Backpacks were divided into two categories for elementary and high school students. The Homestead Education Committee donated backpacks and school supplies such as paper, folders, pens, pencils. Over 200 backpacks were donated by the Children’s Trust and with the help of grant money and donations an additional 700 backpacks were purchased. In total, over 900 book bags were given to students.

Councilman Maldonado stated, “It’s great to see these students will be able to start off the year with the tools they need and not have to worry about getting these basic school supplies. The Weed and Seed and SOS employees and volunteers continue to do a wonderful job in helping adults and children get the needed services and help them find opportunities to be successful. There is nothing better than seeing a child excited and ready to start school again.”

In addition to Friday’s event, on Saturday, August 7, 2010, another book bag give away was organized for migrant children. The Kids 4 Kids Program, a non-profit organization, collaborated with Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) Title I Migrant Education Program for its annual backpack distribution at the South Dade and Redland Housing Centers. Mayor Steven Bateman and Vice-Mayor Judy Waldman donated essential school supplies to be included in the backpacks. Vice-Mayor Waldman and Councilman Maldonado attended the event. Over 400 children received backpacks, school supplies, and stuffed animals.
At the end of the two backpack giveaways, Cipriano Garza, Executive Director of the Title I Migrant Education Program, thanked Mayor and Council and volunteers that came to help and were committed to making this a successful event. One of the migrant parents emotionally thanked the organizers and volunteers for such a wonderful experience.

Vice-Mayor Judy Waldman stated, “The services that are being provided by Kids 4 Kids and the Migrant Education Program will leave a lasting imprint on these children and their families. It was beautiful to see the community come out and help those in need. I believe if you give back to those around you, you receive so much more.”

On Saturday, August 7, several, major organizations , including the Girl Scout Council of Tropical Florida, Ford Motor Company Fund, Miami-Dade County Public Schools Migrant Education Program, and the Mexican American Council came together to sponsor the 2nd annual “Fiesta de Quinceañera” a coming of age celebration for migrant teenage girls.

The Girl Scout Council of Tropical Florida, provided Karina Rodriguez, Ana Zenteno, Estefania Loredo, Maria Marceleno, Roxana Cervantes and Gabriela Ponce, Uniquely ME!, a multi-faceted self-esteem building program. For four weeks, the six young ladies learned about character building, community service, goal setting, etiquette, hygiene, health and nutrition, and the Quinceañera traditions. The reception also represented the girls’ graduation from this program.

This entire event could not have taken place if it wasn’t for the time and effort of the many volunteers and organizations who donated time and money to make this a special and memorable day for the girls and their families. The Quinceañeras wore traditional Quince dresses donated from Pink Champagne and Roses and their fathers wore Guayabera shirts donated by The Guayabera Lady in Coral Gables. Their mothers were also given free dresses from Vice-Mayor Judy Waldman’s charity organization, Judy’s Closet. These are dresses that are new and gently used and donated from the community. The young ladies also received a VIP treatment at Beauty Schools of America, which included hair, make-up, manicure and pedicure services. Other sponsors included BJ’s Wholesale Club and Demi by Desi. Decorations, music, photography, choreography, and cake were also donated by volunteers.

Vice Mayor Waldman stated, “It was amazing to see so many organizations and volunteers come together to participate in such a wonderful event. These young ladies and their families were able to experience such a beautiful tradition and everyone could feel their excitement and happiness. It was an honor to be part of such an important day and I was extremely touched by the entire ceremony and reception.”

Miss Chelcee Washington was recently crowned as Miss Black Homestead Talented Teen USA 2011 and will be representing Homestead when she competes for the state title of Miss Black Florida Talented Teen USA 2011 this September. The Miss Black U.S.A. Pageant and Scholarship Foundation, Inc., coordinators of this event, are a community-driven organization committed to providing educational opportunities to outstanding young women of color and recognizing scholastic achievement.

Chelcee is an outstanding young role model who believes in education and giving back to the community. She is an 11th grade student who has been attending Miami Palmetto Senior High School for the last two years. This Fall, she will be enrolled in the School for Advanced Studies program at Miami-Dade Community College, Homestead Campus and plans to major in Psychiatry. An ambitious and motivated student, she has been taking advanced placement classes and currently has a grade point average of 4.5.

Chelcee is not only hitting the books hard, but is also a well-rounded student that participates in a variety of extracurricular activities. While attending Miami Palmetto Sr. High, she was actively involved in the First Priority Bible Club and was a member of the Palmetto Panthers JV cheerleading squad. She was also a member of the Women of Tomorrow (WOT) club of Palmetto. Her hobbies include cheerleading, dance, gymnastics, and singing; and she enjoys spending time with her friends after school and on the weekends. Outside of school, Chelcee is a member of the National Achievers Society, the National Society of High School Scholars, Pearl Essence Social Club, and New Visions for South Dade, Inc. This busy teen also makes time to give back to her community by volunteering. She also donates her time to the American Girls’ Reading Book Club of Leisure City K-8 Center sponsored by her mother Cherylise Washington and also volunteers at the Homestead Soup Kitchen, The Palace Nursing Home, and the Girls Scouts of America.

Chelcee comes from a family with deep roots within Homestead and at an early age learned the importance of giving back. Both of her maternal grandparents, Johnnie Ruth and the late Willie B. Brown, were pioneers and community activists for the Southwest Community of Homestead. Mr. Brown initiated and coordinated the development of the Homestead/Florida City Neighborhood Center and the construction of the Phichol Williams Community Center. He also formed the Haitian, Hispanic, African American Coalition and founded both the Annual African Heritage Festival and the Concerned Citizens Progressive Action. Mrs. Brown continues to volunteer through her local church, St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, to help the homeless and those in need, especially during the holidays.

Homestead Mayor Steven Bateman wanted to congratulate this bright young lady for all of the accomplishments she has achieved both in and outside of the classroom. Mayor Bateman stated, “Miss Washington is an inspiration to those around her. The City supports her as she pursues this endeavor and we hope that Chelcee brings home the crown. The City of Homestead is fortunate to be represented by such an outstanding young woman.”

If you are interested in making a contribution or sponsoring her participation in this event, please contact TEAM CHELCEE at 305-253-2087.

Please join us for the City of Homestead’s Parks and Recreation Event, “Movie in the Park.” The feature presentation will be the blockbuster movie, Avatar. This free event will be taking place on Friday, August 13, 2010, at Losner Park, 104 Krome Avenue, in the Historic Homestead Downtown District. The movie will begin promptly at sundown. Artists will be on hand to paint children’s faces at no cost and get patrons into the Avatar spirit. Food and refreshments will be available. Guests will have ample parking behind the park as well as in and around the downtown area. It is recommended that you bring blankets and/or chairs. For more information please contact Parks Events and Resource Coordinator Eric Weiss at Jweiss@cityofhomestead.com.

For details click here

Mayor Roscoe Warren Municipal Park's playground is now open to the public. The playground will be open for visitors from sunrise to sundown. Guests can park on the grass area along Palm Drive (344 Street). The park is located at 1400 E. Palm Drive, Homestead, FL 33035.If you need more information please contact City of Homestead Parks & Recreation for more information at 305-224-4570

The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) based out of Chicago, Illinois recently awarded the City of Homestead’s Finance Department, the GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2009-2010 Annual Operating and Capital budget.

This is the second, consecutive year that the City of Homestead receives this award and represents a significant achievement. It reflects the commitment of the Mayor, City Council, and staff to meet the highest principals of governmental budgeting. In order for the City to receive this budget award, employees had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. The guidelines are created to evaluate how well an entity’s budget serves as: policy document, financial plan, operations guide, and communications device.

Budget documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories, and the fourteen mandatory criteria within those categories, to receive this award.
When a distinguished Budget Presentation Award is granted, a Certificate of Recognition for Budget Presentation is also presented to the individual or departments as being primarily responsible for having achieved this award. This has been presented to Elizabeth M. Mangual, a dedicated employee who has been working for the City of Homestead for the last 12 years.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving 17,600 government finance professionals throughout North America. The GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards Program is the only national awards program in governmental budgeting.

On Thursday, August 5, Medical Academy for Science and Technology, MAST @ Homestead will be hosting an open house at Gateway Environmental K-8 Learning Center located at 955 S.E. 18 Avenue Homestead, FL 33035. The last day to submit your application will be Friday, August 6.

MAST @ Homestead, will open its doors for the first time on August 23, 2010 to incoming 9th grade students. MAST @ Homestead is an all academy magnet high school and will offer students the opportunity to access an elite senior high with advance programs in the fields of Biomedical, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Physical Therapy. Students will have an opportunity to study in a state-of-the-art facility and have access to the latest research in the medical field.

For more information, please visit MAST@ Homestead’s website at choice.dadeschools.net/mastmedical or call 305-257-4500.

Click here for details.

The City of Homestead’s Planning and Zoning Board is an advisory committee to Mayor and Council that reviews and recommends plans and programs for the systematic growth and development of the City. It is the board members responsibility to take into consideration the health, safety, beautification, and welfare of the residents of Homestead. Part of their duties is to review capital improvement programs, comprehensive plan amendments for future land use, land development regulations, and rehabilitation of existing structures all designed to promote and improve the quality of life of the community.

The majority of the City board must be Homestead residents and have resided within the City for a minimum of one year prior to their appointment to the board. Two members of the board may be non-residents who own a business located within Homestead city limits, which has been in operation for at least three years. The current board consists of seven, distinguished individuals who have professional backgrounds in architecture, building construction, engineering, and medicine.

Mr. Edward Powell is a retired electrical engineer who has been actively involved in Homestead, serving as the Keys Gate Condo President for two years and graduated from the first Homestead’s Citizen Academy.

Mr. Daniel Carter is currently a financial advisor for Morgan Stanley Smith Barney and has been a resident of Homestead since 1975. Mr. Carter is also a board member of the Kiwanis of Homestead/South Dade and the Homestead Soup Kitchen.

Mr. Ronald J. Dorris is the business owner of a full service architectural firm that has been located in Homestead for over 25 years.

Dr. Jeffrey Raines is a retired faculty member of the University of Miami Department of Surgery. He is a published author who did numerous studies and research in the field of Cardiovascular Diseases. Dr. Raines has been a Homestead resident for the past seven years.

Mr. James Sutton a Homestead resident has over 33 years of professional experience in accounting, purchasing, and contracting. He is the owner and operator of South Florida Audio Video and the Executive Director for the Everglades Association.

Mr. Michael Taylor has over 26 years of construction experience in such trades as a supervisor of work crews and a licensed Master Pipe Fitter. He currently supervises the construction progress of affordable homes by Workforce Development Partnership, Inc.

Mr. James Harris owns Harris & Schroeder Builders, Inc. a full-service construction firm located in Homestead specializing in residential, commercial, and remodeling since 1960. Mr. Harris, a third generation builder has worked with his father most of his life and has been an equal partner since 1987 and the sole owner since 1998.

As vacancies occur, residents and the general public are encouraged to submit resumes and file applications for consideration. Once qualified candidates have applied the board members are appointed by the Mayor , subject to the approval of the City Council. Appointments are for two years or until the appointing Mayor leaves office, whichever occurs first. Monthly meetings are held the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 8:30 AM. Meetings are open to the public.

Members of the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) have elected Barbara Quiñones, Homestead Energy Services Director, as secretary-treasurer of the organization’s board of directors.

FMEA represents the unified interests of 34 public power communities across the state, which provides electricity to nearly 3 million of Florida’s residential and business consumers.

“Board members participate in regular meetings held across the state and are charged with setting the overall direction of the organization,” said Barry Moline, FMEA’s executive director. “Barbara has established herself as a strong leader on utility issues not only in Homestead, but throughout the state of Florida. We’re honored to have her serve as our secretary-treasurer.”

“I am pleased to be chosen to serve as an elected member on FMEA’s board. This organization is helping our state’s electric industry stay at the forefront of the nation by keeping its members informed on legislative issues and providing safety, training and customer service resources,” said Quiñones.

She added, “Vince Lombardi once said, ‘The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.’ Through FMEA, individual municipal utilities located across Florida are working together to assure that our priorities remain focused on the consumer.”

Quiñones has over 25 years of engineering and electrical facility operations, maintenance and construction experience. She is a graduate of Georgia Tech with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and a minor certification in Spanish.

Other officers appointed to the FMEA board include President Paul Kalv of Leesburg; President-Elect Howard McKinnon of Havana; and Vice President Grant Lacerte of Kissimmee.

The renewal of Homestead’s historic downtown district is a high priority of the Homestead Mayor and City Council. In September 2009, Dade Medical College opened the Homestead campus in the Downtown area on North Krome Avenue and 4th Street. The college operates four campuses in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties and offers diplomas or an Associate of Science degree in Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography, Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound, Massage Therapy, and Medical Assistant programs at the Homestead Campus.

Since its inception, the school created 50 new jobs and plans to add another 100 employees as a result of a planned enrollment increase. There are over 200 students enrolled at the Homestead campus now.

Ernesto Perez, CEO of Dade Medical College, recently donated more than $8,000 to renew and maintain Paradise Way, the promenade immediately north of the Art South Sanctuary building. A variety of trees, plants, and flowers were added to the landscape by Mr. Perez. Pavers were pressure-cleaned and a new irrigation system was installed. The impact of the renewal is dramatic and has created an attractive green space downtown.

Perez stated, "We are excited and honored to be part of the revitalization of the historic downtown Homestead area. Our goal is to remake the area into a safe, family-friendly place in the spirit of Miracle Mile. It’s a commitment we are making to the City.”

Homestead Mayor Steven C. Bateman is pleased with the positive impact of the college on downtown Homestead. “The impact of Dade Medical College has been positive and dramatic. Our downtown is alive with students and the landscaping improvements to Paradise Way have transformed a blighted area to an attractive one. This is a win-win situation for everyone. Mr. Perez is a fine corporate citizen and I applaud his efforts,” said Mayor Bateman.

Mayor Bateman believes that Dade Medical College is the beginning of Homestead’s downtown renaissance. “I believe that we a witnessing the beginnings of a wholesale revitalization of our downtown,” said Bateman.

Kids from around South Florida, including children from the City of Homestead’s Summer Camp, were invited to basketball all-stars Alonzo Mourning and Dywane Wade’s 14th annual Summer Groove Youth Basketball Clinic on Friday, July 16. Forty lucky Homestead campers were chosen to participate in this exclusive event for free.

City of Homestead’s Parks and Recreations Resource and Events Coordinator, Eric Weiss, was able to coordinate with the organizers of the clinic to give our campers an exclusive, up-close and personal meeting with NBA superstars. Participants were given a T-shirt, bag, towel, lunch, and Nike Air basketball shoes at no cost to the children.

During the clinic the kids were divided into smaller groups to learn basketball fundamentals such as shooting, dribbling, and defensive skills. They also had the opportunity to meet professional basketball athletes from around the league, including Dywane Wade. There were certain requirements in order to participate. Campers needed to be between the ages of 8 to 14 and not in high school. This clinic is part of the annual Summer Groove festivities where Alonzo Mourning and Dywane Wade join forces to host various fundraising events. Money raised at these events goes to local South Florida programs and initiatives supported by Alonzo Mourning Charities and Wade’s World Foundation.

Eric Weiss commented, “It was great to see the kids getting an opportunity to not only learn invaluable basketball skills, but interact with some of the biggest NBA players. They had a wonderful time. The City’s Summer Camp Program is constantly striving to provide our kids with an unforgettable summer filled with unique experiences and activities.”

On an overcast and drizzling Friday morning, July 16, 2010, Mayor Steven Bateman, Vice-Mayor Judy Waldman, Councilman Elvis Maldonado, Councilman Jimmie L. Williams, III, City Manager Sergio Purrinos, City Department Heads, and special guest former Homestead Mayor Roscoe Warren participated in the groundbreaking of the future site of the Mayor Roscoe Warren Municipal Park. The park is located at 1400 E. Palm Drive, Homestead, FL 33035.

During the ceremony, Mayor Bateman spoke about bringing many city projects to fruition and applauded Vice-Mayor Waldman for being persistent in bringing quality parks to Homestead. In her remarks, Vice Mayor Judy Waldman stated that it was her goal to build outstanding parks and recreational facilities for Homestead residents and visitors as Chairperson of the Parks and Recreation Committee. Vice-Mayor Waldman stated, “I know when we complete this project, our residents will have a first-class park in which they can bring their families and spend the day in a safe and pleasurable environment.”

The guest speaker for the event was former Homestead Mayor Roscoe Warren. Throughout the ceremony, Mayor Warren was praised for his dedication and service to build a better future for Homestead. Vice-Mayor Waldman gave a very moving speech during the introduction of Mayor Warren. Vice-Mayor Waldman spoke about her close friendship and mentor who guided her during a very difficult time when she was battling breast cancer. Councilmen Jimmie L. Williams, III and Elvis Maldonado also credited Mayor Warren for being influential in their political careers and as positive role model.

In 2005, a resolution was passed by the City Council that the park be named after former Homestead Mayor Roscoe Warren, who served in public office for 26 years. Mr. Warren was elected to the Homestead City Council in 1981 and during his tenure served as Councilman, Vice-Mayor, and Mayor. He retired in 2007. Mr. Warren received many honors and awards throughout his distinguished public service career. He displayed a genuine commitment and honorable service to the people of Homestead. His endless efforts to develop and maintain a successful future for Homestead are highly visible.

A few years ago the City began its plans to redevelop a former Homestead landfill site as a municipal park. Through a Miami-Dade County Solid Waste grant, this 37-acre parcel of land went through an extensive clean-up to prepare the site as a park. Once the clean-up was approved by Miami-Dade County’s Department of Environmental Resources Management (DERM), the former landfill was ready for construction. General Obligation Bond (GOB) funds will finance the park’s initial phase of construction.

The park’s construction will be completed in multiple phases. The initial phase will include the infrastructure, landscaping, walkways, restrooms, soccer fields, and pavilions. The City is also planning to look at acquiring additional grant money and other sources of revenue for further amenities to be completed in subsequent phases. The park is slated to open to the public at the end of the year.

In the month of July the Homestead Police Department (HPD) was awarded third place in the state for their participation in the 2010 Click It or Ticket Florida challenge. The Homestead Police Department was in a category with other departments in the state with similar amount of patrol officers. The Homestead Police Department has always participated in various state and national campaigns for Driving Under the Influence (DUI), Red Light Running, and Aggressive driving. This is the first time HPD have placed in any category.

In conjunction with the national campaign, the state of Florida kicked off its 10th annual Click It or Ticket campaign this year. The Click It or Ticket enforcement began before Memorial Day weekend on May 24th, 2010 and ended June 6th, 2010. During this two week period, officers carried out a zero tolerance policy throughout the state. Here in the City of Homestead, law enforcement officials conducted round-the-clock sweeps for motorists who failed to wear a safety belt.

The reported activity for the two week period in Homestead included: 332 Safety Belt Citations, 15 Suspended License Citations, 3 uninsured motorists, 21 child seat citations, 5 DUI Arrests, 29 Felony Arrests, 10 Drug Arrests, 52 Other Arrests, and 1 Fugitive Arrest.

Last year Florida passed a primary safety belt law that allows law enforcement officers to pull over motorists that fail to buckle up. According to Click It or Ticket Florida’s website, in 2008 statistics show that 1,795 people were killed in vehicles equipped with safety belts. About 60% of these people were not wearing seat belts. Miami-Dade County in 2008 reported 78 fatalities due to a lack of safety belt use.

Homestead Police Chief Alexander Rolle stated, “I would like to thank all of those who participated by caring enough to make a difference, because no price and no award is better than the lives saved through this effort.

Along with this recognition, the police department was also awarded approximately $10,000 worth of traffic safety equipment for the department to use in future operations.

Homestead Energy Services is offering a limited number of Free Home Energy Surveys to eligible customers. This pilot program is being funded by the Energy Efficiency Conservation Block grant, which assists eligible entities in implementing energy efficiency and conservation strategies.

The surveyor will come out to your home and suggest ways to conserve energy. This will be accomplished through a review of your consumption practices, an inspection of appliances, and weatherproofing items, such as insulation and weather-stripping. Once the inspection is completed the homeowner will receive a report of their findings.

Certain eligibility conditions are required to receive this free service. Included in these conditions are: the customer must be the homeowner, be current with their payment status, and exhibit electric usage higher than the norm for the size of the property.

To have your account reviewed for eligibility, please send an email to EnergySurvey@cityofhomestead.com and provide us with your name, address and contact phone number, or call (305) 224-4719.

City of Homestead Mayor Steven Bateman, Councilman Stephen Shelley, and Homestead Police Chief Al Rolle wanted to recognize and commend the exemplary work that the members of the New Hope Counseling Outpatient Residential Prevention Services (C.O.R.P.S.) do day in and day out. This extraordinary community organization, the only of its kind in the South Miami-Dade area, provides residential and outpatient substance abuse treatment to primarily homeless males. New Hope C.O.R.P.S houses fifty-two beds and treatments can last from 60 days to 9 months.

Tuesday, July, 6, 2010 was proclaimed by the Mayor and City Council as New Hope C.O.R.P.S Day. Mayor Bateman stated, “We wanted to acknowledge one more great organization within our City that brings so much good and hope to people. We are here to support an agency that helps so many going through a difficult time and gives them a much needed second chance. I commend their caring staff for their untiring dedication to our community.”

New Hope was established in 1993 by Founder Manuel A. Alvarez after he recognized a gap in services and the need for treatment opportunities for men in the South Dade community. The mission of this community agency is to break the self-destructive cycle of addiction through a religious, therapeutic, and rehabilitative approach. This agency is dedicated to helping participants re-enter society as productive citizens.
This organization is able to operate through grant money from the Miami-Dade Homeless Trust which awarded New Hope C.O.R.P.S. $425,391 to implement Project Regeneration. Project Regeneration is a transition housing program for substance abuse and mental health treatment for the chronic homeless population within our community. The total cost of this project is $538,278 and in order for New Hope to execute the grant, the agency was required to raise $150,887 in matching funds. At the proclamation presentation, the Patrick P. Lee Foundation presented New Hope C.O.R.P.S. with a check for $150,887, the amount that was needed. This is the second donation awarded by the Patrick P. Lee Foundation to support this initiative of continuing to offer professional, caring, and individualized services to those who have a history of mental illness and substance abuse.

The Patrick P. Lee Foundation’s primary mission is to assist medical and educational projects and support to non-profit organizations that empowers families and communities with the resources needed to create positive change.

“Giving back to the community that surrounds you is what counts,” said Patrick P. Lee, founder of the Patrick P. Lee Foundation. Cynthia R. Lee, Member of the Board of Directors for the Patrick P. Lee Foundation, added , “ New Hope C.O.R.P.S. is an institution that exemplifies what the Patrick P. Lee Foundation is all about. We are pleased to support it and the important work they are doing.”

The City of Homestead and the Homestead-Miami Speedway’s Race to the 4th celebration was a great success. For the first time, this annual event was held at the race track. Vice Mayor Judy Waldman, the coordinator of the celebration approached the Speedway’s President Matt Becherer to see if they would be interested in co-hosting the event.

“When the City of Homestead approached us to inquire about hosting its annual event fireworks display at the Homestead-Miami Speedway, we were ecstatic,” said track president Matt Becherer.

Staff from both the City’s Parks and Recreation Department and the Speedway worked collectively in putting together the event. The event was held in the race track’s infield and grandstand seating was opened for guests to enjoy the fireworks. The crowds had unprecedented access to the track, garages, and pit areas. People had an opportunity to get up “close and personal” and see where some of the biggest names in racing battle it out in both the IndyCar and NASCAR Championships.

The event was free to the public and over 10,000 spectators came out to enjoy the festivities. Special trams from the Speedway shuttled visitors to the entrance gates from packed parking lots.

The event was also sponsored by Toyota of Homestead, Homestead Chevrolet Cadillac, Mario’s Café, Verizon, Dade Medical College, David Berrones, and Keys Gate Golf Club. Cars from both Toyota of Homestead and Homestead Chevrolet Cadillac were displayed on the track. Thunder Country Radio entertained the audience as the Master of Ceremonies.

The celebration included classic Independence Day fireworks, entertainment, children’s rides, and many food vendors. Patrons were entertained by several live bands, a teenage choral group singing patriotic songs, and children’s activities. Homestead residents Loretta Marsicano and Britney Berrones sang the National Anthem and God Bless America. Mega Party Events provided children’s rides for the event.

Mayor Steven Bateman, Vice-Mayor Waldman, and the City Council addressed the crowd about the meaning of Independence Day and thanked everyone for coming out to celebrate. In his address, Mayor Steven Bateman stated, “As a community, we must be mindful, dedicated, and ever-vigilant of the freedoms that we enjoy and the price that has been paid over many generations to sustain them.”

City officials acknowledged our troops overseas who are fighting for freedom and thanked them for their continued service. Vice-Mayor Waldman stated, “As we celebrate this wonderful day, our Nation’s birthday, let us not forget all of the men and women who fought over the years to give us the precious word “freedom.” The freedom to make our own way. The freedom to make choices. The freedom to differ with one another. But above all, I cannot stop thinking about the fathers and husbands, Mothers and wives, sisters and brothers, and sons and daughters that our fighting, with every breath in their bodies, to protect that freedom. Risking their lives, because they want us, you and me, to be free.”

By all measures the event was a resounding success.

On Monday, June 14, City of Homestead’s Parks and Recreation Department hosted their annual appreciation luncheon at the William F. “Bill” Dickinson Community Center honoring their twenty five volunteers for all of the hard work that they do year round. These volunteers from diverse, professional backgrounds share their time and knowledge to create various activities at the community center. With the help of these volunteers, classes range from computer applications to line-dancing keeping members entertained and learning new skills. The luncheon was sponsored by Portofino Coal Fired Pizza.

For a complete list of classes being offered at the community center please stop by the community center to pick up a schedule. Classes are held Monday through Saturday and vary from month to month. To become a volunteer of the community center or participate in the one of the classes you must become a member. Regular memberships for individuals 18 years and over are $110 a year. Senior memberships for individuals 50 years and over are $35 for residents and $40 for non-residents. With a membership you have full access to all of the amenities including a state of the art fitness center, computers, and activity rooms.

If you are interested in becoming a member or volunteer please contact Coordinator Jacki Pilkington at 305-245-4934 or jpilkington@cityofhomestead.com for more information. You can also visit the community center at 1601 North Krome Avenue, Homestead, FL 33030 and pick up an application.

On Friday, June 25th approximately 100 guests gathered for the 90th birthday celebration of Ruth L. Campbell at the William F. “Bill Dickinson Community Center. Family, friends, community leaders, and City of Homestead employees hosted a pot luck luncheon to honor Ms. Campbell on such an extraordinary milestone. As part of the festivity, Ms. Campbell was presented a plaque of appreciation by Mayor Steven C. Bateman and Vice Mayor Judy Waldman for her exemplary service to the City. Each table was decorated with balloons, flowers, and pictures of the former councilwoman.

Ms. Campbell has a very long history of service and deep roots with the City of Homestead. For over thirty-four years she devoted her life to public service. She was the first woman elected to the Homestead City Council in 1963 and in 1997 when she did not seek re-election she was given the title of “Honorary Mayor of Krome Avenue.” Ms. Campbell was involved in numerous civic organizations during her tenure and continues to be very active in the Homestead community. She is currently the museum director and local historian of the Historic Homestead Town Hall Museum, the city’s first municipal building.

Ms.Campbell has committed herself to developing an awareness and appreciation for the City’s historic assets and an urgency for preservation. The City of Homestead is very fortunate to have such a dedicated leader who has inspired generations to volunteer and give back to their community. She has accomplished so much for the City in bringing the past and future together and is a true example of a public servant.

To reduce operating costs to the City of Homestead, General Services, Fleet Management Division implemented a cost saving measure to help bring down expenses. Fleet Management created a City wide Refurbishing Program for vehicles and equipment to reduce the City’s Capital Budget.

Fleet Management performed a comprehensive review of each vehicle using vehicle maintenance records, estimates, and ideas provided by vendors and technicians for the refurbishing of the vehicles. The goal was to be able to extend the life of the vehicle by an additional 3 to 5 years per vehicle, thus reducing the need for capital replacement to the City of Homestead for years to come. Once verified, the jobs were awarded and the rest of the work was completed by City of Homestead Fleet Management technicians.

The first test vehicle was a residential garbage truck which included mechanical, body, cab, interior work, hydraulic, fabrication, welding repairs, and paint. The total cost of the project was $28,911.48. Fleet Management has completed the second Solid Waste, automated side Loader Residential Refuse vehicles at a cost of $24,869.08. The cost of replacing and purchasing two new vehicles would have cost the city $475,326.00. City employees are striving everyday to come up with better solutions to reduce costs and maintain a high level of service for Homestead residents.

Fourth of July Event Flyer

The City of Homestead and the Homestead-Miami Speedway are hosting a July 4th celebration at the Homestead-Miami Speedway. The event is being organized by Vice Mayor Judy Waldman and the City’s Parks and Recreation Department.
The event is free to the public. The event sponsors are Toyota of Homestead, Homestead Chevrolet Cadillac, Mario’s Café, and Keys Gate Golf Club. A car from both Toyota of Homestead and Homestead Chevrolet Cadillac will be displayed at the event. Councilman Jon Burgess generously donated funds from two of his committees to the financing of the event.
The celebration will include fireworks, entertainment, children’s rides, and food. Entertainment will include two bands, a teenage choral group singing patriotic songs, and children’s activities. The Master of Ceremonies for the celebration is Thunder Country Radio. Loretta Marsicano will sing the National Anthem and Britney Berrones will sing God Bless America.
The two bands performing at the event are Been There Done That and No Restrictions. Event vendors are Portofino Coal Fired Pizza, Big Pig BBQ, Carvel Ice Cream, Capri Restaurant, El Toro Taco Restaurant, Sonny’s Barbecue, Roasters’ n Toasters, Coco Gelato, and others.
Mega Party Events will be providing children’s rides for the event which will include: a 4 lane rock wall, Thunder Force obstacle course, 20 Ft. dual lane accelerator slide, intermediate swings, Tidal Wave mechanical ride, bungee run, Kiddy Play Land, sports 4 in 1 combo unit, and face painting.
The event will be held in the race track’s infield. Patrons are encouraged to bring chairs. Grandstand seating will be open for the event. Patrons will have the opportunity to see the race track and the pits.
The event hours are from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Parking is available. Fireworks begin at 9:00 PM. Private coolers will not be permitted inside the speedway.

The Homestead-Miami Speedway is located at 1 Speedway Boulevard, Homestead, FL 33035. Exit the Florida Turnpike’s Speedway exit and drive east to the speedway.

As the average person continues to live longer than generations before, attention is being directed to the care of our elder and disabled citizens. This attention has also put a spotlight on the employees who provide this hands-on-care in long term settings. The 33rd Annual National Nursing Assistants Week which runs from June 10-17, 2010 honors those who have committed themselves to providing quality care and quality of life for our older, frail, and disabled citizens. These individuals open their hearts and it becomes more than just a job, but a family environment where strangers overnight become extended family members.

City of Homestead Mayor Steven Bateman stated, “The well-being and happiness of these citizens is dependent on these people who care and provide daily assistance. They truly are angels for our elderly. This nationwide and local recognition provides an opportunity to showcase this profession as well as recognize and celebrate the role of the nursing assistant in the health care system.”

Mayor Bateman and the City Council by proclamation designated June 10-17, 2010 as the 33rd National Nursing Assistants Week 2010 to recognize these dedicated and trained professionals. Mayor Bateman visited Homestead Manor an assisted living and nursing facility and presented the proclamation to their staff’s nursing assistants. He was warmly welcomed by the Directors and staff members. Mayor Bateman spoke with the employees speaking from personal experience the invaluable service and commended their dedication and compassion towards Homestead’s elderly community.

Ms. Verma Johnson, Administrator for Homestead Manor, said, “ Our Certified Nursing Assistants’ hearts were warmed and their faces were glowing when Mayor Bateman expressed to them how great their work was.”

On June 4th, the City of Homestead launched its first “Movies in the Park” event at Losner Park. The event was an initiative of Vice Mayor Judy Waldman. The park was nearly filled to capacity on a perfect Homestead summer night. The estimated attendance for the first night was about 200 persons. Park patrons brought blankets and chairs to watch the movie Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian.
A special projection screen was rented for the night which provided excellent viewing for the entire audience. During the event, popcorn, hotdogs, hamburgers and water were sold by local vendors which included the Fraternal Order of Police and Relay for Life.
Given the success of Movies in the Park and the positive comments by park patrons, the City will be scheduling additional movie events in the near future. Please visit the City of Homestead’s web site at www.cityofhomestead.com for the next “Movie in the Park.”

Homestead, FL -- On June 1st, the City of Homestead will commence its new single-stream recycling program. In single-stream recycling, recyclables are mixed together in the recycling truck. Separation of recycling goods is not necessary. The City’s new recycling program replaces one currently operated by Waste Management.

Prior to the first collection day of the new program, the City of Homestead will distribute new 95-gallon recycling containers and detailed informational brochures with collection route maps and “Recycling Dos and Don’ts.”

The City will be divided into five bi-weekly recycling routes, based on the day of the week. The five recycling routes and their boundaries are described as follows:

1)ROUTE A, 1st and 3rd Monday of the month – north of Lucy Street (SW 328th Street), east of SW 194th Avenue, south of NW 23rd Street (SW 296th Street), and west of SW/NW 6th Avenue;
2)ROUTE B, 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month – north of Lucy Street (SW 328th Street), east of SW/NW 6th Avenue, south of NW 23rd Street (SW 296th Street), and west of Krome Avenue (SW 177th Avenue);
3)ROUTE C, 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month – north of Lucy Street (SW 328th Street), east of Kingman (SW 152 Avenue)/Florida Turnpike, south of 288th Street, and west of SW 132nd/137th Avenue;
4)ROUTE D, 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month – north of Lucy Street (SW 328th Street), east of Krome Avenue (SW 177th Avenue), south of NE 20th Street, and west of Kingman (SW 152nd Avenue);
5)ROUTE E, 1st and 3rd Friday of the month – north of SW 352nd Street, east of SE 6th Avenue, south of Lucy Street (SW 328th Street), and west of 132nd Avenue.

Delivery of containers and routes will commence in day-of-the-week order, starting with Route A. Containers will be delivered on the first monthly collection day and the first collection will occur on the second monthly collection day. For example, containers for Route A will be delivered on Tuesday, June 1st (one day later as a result of the Memorial Day Holiday) and the first collection will occur on Monday, June 14th. Subsequent collections will occur according to the route schedule.

Recycling Video (English)

Recycling Video (Creole)

Recycling Video (Spanish)

Click here for details.

Members of the Homestead City Council on their federal legislative trip and Air Base Elementary School Safety Patrol students on a field trip meet at Washington National Airport in Washington, DC.
The Homestead City Council members from left to right are Councilman Elvis Maldonado, Mayor Steven Bateman, Vice Mayor Judy Waldman, Councilman Stephen Shelley, and City Manager Sergio Purrinos

Homestead Mayor Steven C. Bateman presented a Certificate of Recognition to Adam Biel for his commitment and dedication to raising awareness for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Biel, founder and journeyman of Adventure for Autism, an Autism awareness and fundraising campaign, is on an epic two-continent, 25,000 mile bicycle journey from Alaska to Argentina.
The journey began on June 26, 2009. As Biel travels, he presents facts about Autism Spectrum Disorders to local schools and organizations and raises money for autism awareness. Biel believes that “autism is an incredibly important issue that the world is facing.”
Biel’s journey has been funded by personal funds, donations, and sponsorships. Contributions are received from donations per mile, lump sum donations, or challenge donations. Biel’s goal is to raise $1 million for his partner foundations.
To follow Adam on his journey or to donate to Adventure for Autism go to www.adventureforautism.com.

Click Here to view Conservation Tips for Reducing Electric Usage

Mayor Steve Bateman drove at his own expense to the town of Tradition in Port St. Lucie, Florida to learn firsthand how Homestead’s fiber optic ring technology can be better applied to residential communities and businesses. The City of Homestead owns and operates a high-speed fiber optic ring which Bateman believes is a substantial public asset but is being significantly underutilized. Mayor Bateman took the trip to increase his personal knowledge of potential broadband applications for the City of Homestead.
This week, Mayor Bateman met with Executive Vice President of Hometown Cable Plus, Tony Petrone in Port St. Lucie. The town of Tradition in Port St. Lucie is considered to be a model community insofar as broadband technology is concerned. Home Town Cable Plus operates a state-of-the-art fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) system in Port St. Lucie delivering High-Speed Internet, Cable TV, Telephone and Security Alarm Monitoring.
According to Hometown Cable Plus, FTTP provides increased bandwidth to each home, which is capable of delivering hundreds of television channels. In addition to this broadband delivery capacity, FTTP provides greater system reliability and expandability, lower maintenance costs and longer life cycles than coaxial or “fiber-to-the-curb”-based systems.
Bateman wants a similar utilization of Homestead’s fiber optic ring and wants to use the City’s underutilized fiber optic ring technology infrastructure to benefit both residents and businesses. “Homestead has some of the best technology assets that can be applied to homes and businesses. I want our technology assets to work for us -- now.” Bateman’s vision includes a connection to the fiber optic ring for all newly-built homes throughout Homestead.

Councilman Jimmie L. Williams, a strong believer in the community benefits of the U.S. Census, is opening the doors of the Phichol Williams Community Center in Southwest Homestead to ensure that the Homestead Community is accurately represented in the 2010 U.S. Census.
Williams’ leadership has established a Census Bureau Questionnaire Assistance Center (QAC), which is located at Phichol Williams Community Center through April 19th. The Questionnaire and Assistance Center was created by U.S. Census Bureau to assist individuals and household members who are unable to complete the census questionnaire themselves.
Individuals having difficulty completing the Census Questionnaire for reasons such as language limitations or complex living arrangements or those individuals requiring assistance regarding the instructions of the questionnaire will receive assistance from U.S. Census Bureau employees at the Phichol Williams Community Center.
There will be language assistance guides available in 59 languages at the Phichol Williams Community Center. Each QAC site will also contain “Be Counted” boxes and questionnaires for use when the QAC is closed.
“We need to ensure that everyone in Homestead is counted in the Census” said Williams. “Federal funding formulas, grants, and apportionment of Congressional seats are all affected by the census count” Williams stated.
Every year billions of dollars of federal funding for large-scale infrastructure projects such as hospitals, schools, bridges and other public-works projects as well as job training centers and emergency services are funded from information gathered from the U.S Census.
Redistricting, the process of changing electoral district boundaries, is usually accomplished by the use of data from the census. The U.S. Constitution provides for the adjustment of electoral districts by state legislatures to account for population changes.
An updated census is used to distribute $400 billion of federal funds to communities with needs for low income families, the elderly and children, and threats to vulnerable wildlife.
“The U.S. Census is very important for Homestead as a result of our tremendous population growth in the last five years” said Williams. “Because of our growth, Homestead is not what it used to be. We must ensure that we get our fair share of federal assistance and political representation from an accurate census count.”
Reverend Williams is also initiating a faith-based community census initiative with local congregations to relay the importance of the completion of census questionnaires. Members of faith communities will be encouraged by their leaders to complete and mail back their forms and will be assured that answering the census is completely safe.
Homestead’s Phichol Williams Community Center is located at 951 SW 4th Street, Homestead, FL 33030. The hours of the Census Questionnaire Center are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The QAC is open through April 19th.

Mayor Steven C. Bateman is sworn in by Florida City Mayor Otis Wallace

Being sworn in from left to right: Councilman Elvis R. Maldonado,
Councilman Jimmie L. Williams, III, Councilman Stephen R. Shelley, Vice Mayor Judy Waldman

Vice Mayor Judy Waldman is sworn in

From left to right: Mayor Otis Wallace, Councilman Stephen R. Shelley, Councilman Jimmie L. Williams, III, Mayor Steven C. Bateman, Vice Mayor Judy Waldman and Councilman Elvis R. Maldonado