A simple act of kindness can make a lasting impact in someone’s life. That is why, during the April 2015 Special Council Presentation, Councilwoman Judy Waldman bestowed a special Kindness Award to Cindy Sincore-Porter, Amber Woods, Larry Roth, Bonnie King-Moran, Amy Bartlett Spadaro and Pat Danzani for their years of involvement in charity-based initiatives or just by contributing in a selfless way to the Homestead community.
Councilwoman Waldman first implemented the Kindness Award in 2002 as a way to recognize random acts of kindness by everyday citizens. The award was inspired by the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Andrew’s decimation of the Homestead area and the acts of courage by its citizenry in response to the devastation, as well as the inspiring efforts of the entire nation to lend a helping hand.
There to help Councilwoman Waldman give out the awards was Miss Miami 2015 and last year’s Miss Homestead, Crystal Ruiz. She is a former recipient of the Kindness Awards and an active member of the Homestead community. Each honoree received a bouquet of flowers, a medal, and a certificate.
“These outstanding people stand for the kind of altruism and dedication to the well-being of others that can change the world,” said Councilwoman Waldman of the honorees. “The kindness they embody and the enthusiasm they show in all their endeavors makes them worthy recipients of this Kindness Award.”
Cindy Sincore-Porter, whom Councilman Waldman fondly refers as “Homestead’s First Lady” and Amy Bartlett Spadaro are avid animal lovers. Mrs. Porter single-handedly has rescued hundreds of animals and nursed them to health. Mrs. Bartlett rescued a dog with breast cancer, and gave it the nurture and love it needed until finding a family. They both foster and rescue dogs and cats until they find a home.
Amber Woods, Miss Homestead 2015, has lived through more tragic events than most people her age. Her mother, a dedicated member of the City of Homestead staff, passed away in an unfortunate car accident. Since then, Ms. Woods has taken a strong stance against texting and driving, even though it’s not her official platform. As Miss Homestead, her focus is to encourage the younger generation—her peers—to be active in the community, to step outside the box, to become leaders, and to “Be the Change.”
Bonnie King-Moran is perhaps one of the most well-known names in Downtown Homestead. She was honored last month with Homestead’s Woman of the Year award. She volunteers her time at the Homestead Old Town Hall Museum, welcoming guests with a smile and takes pictures of many community events. Always willing to help out and collaborate, Mrs. King is a great example of kindness.
Pat’s Bridal, a bridal shop in South Miami, not only sells dresses; it gives hope. That’s why Pat Donzanti, the owner, was honored. She recently donated prom dresses to Councilwoman Waldman’s charitable organization, Judy’s Closet, that were given out to disadvantaged Homestead residents who needed help prepping for their big day. It was an amazing and kind donation of sample dresses, otherwise unattainable for the recipients.
Larry Roth received a Kindness award because of his dedication to the most valuable members of any community: children. He organizes the Chili Cook off every year to donate money to children’s charities. Mr. Roth is a leader in the community and a server at heart, working tirelessly with breast cancer awareness events and fundraisers.
