News Flash

Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) Chief Ricardo Centeno are proud to announce the second annual Firefighter of the Year Award nominations are now open. In recognizing and honoring the hard work and bravery, the Firefighter of the Year Award serves to recognize the dedication and commitment of the unparalleled service of MDFR firefighters.

This esteemed award seeks to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable commitment, courage, and exceptional service demonstrated by an MDFR firefighter who has surpassed expectations in their dedication to serving and safeguarding the community. A respected panel will review the submitted nominations and make their choice of recipient for this year’s Firefighter of the Year Award and recognize them at a special ceremony that will take place on October 16^th, 2024, at 5 PM inside the City Hall Council Chambers, located 100 NE Civic Ct, Homestead, FL 33030.

“Last year’s ceremony was a success,” Councilwoman Bailey emphasized, “I am excited to continue to honor our firefighters and their hard work with this wonderful award once again.”

Nominations can be submitted by fellow firefighters, colleagues, community members, or individuals from the City of Homestead who have witnessed or experienced the exceptional efforts of a firefighter in the line of duty. To submit nominations online for the Firefighter of the Year Award visit www.homesteadfl.gov/firefighter. The nominees will be assessed based on their leadership qualities, contribution to the community, work in public safety, and courageous aptitude. The deadline to apply is Monday, September 30, 2024.

About Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue:

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) is the sixth-largest accredited full-service fire-rescue department in the Southeast United States. With 71 fire rescue stations within unincorporated Miami-Dade County serving 29 municipalities, MDFR protects people, property, and the environment by providing proactive, responsive, professional, and humanitarian fire rescue services essential to public health, safety, and well-being. MDFR has units dedicated to serving the airport, seaport, and air transport services, as well as to serving in ocean rescue, fire and rescue, marine, hazardous materials, urban search and rescue, technical rescue, and venom response operations.

The City of Homestead is proud to announce that Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey has successfully championed the initiative to designate August as Black Business Month. This important recognition highlights the vital contributions of Black-owned businesses to the local economy and underscores the City’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive business community.

This achievement follows the successful “Black Business Month Celebration Evening of Honors” event, hosted by South Dade Connections, where Councilwoman Bailey was honored with the Outstanding Community Leadership Award. This prestigious award was presented in recognition of her exceptional dedication to advancing Black business interests throughout South Dade.

The Evening of Honors also featured a graduation ceremony for participants who completed a comprehensive three-week program. This program provided local business owners with invaluable resources, including training in finance, legal matters, and business development, to equip them with the tools necessary for long-term success in the competitive marketplace.

“Black Business Month is an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of Black business owners in our community,” said Councilwoman Bailey. “I am honored to have played a role in making this designation a reality and am deeply committed to continuing my work to support the growth and prosperity of Black-owned businesses in Homestead.”

The City of Homestead joins Councilwoman Bailey in encouraging residents and visitors alike to support Black-owned businesses throughout the month of August and beyond. By doing so, the community can contribute to the economic vitality and cultural richness that these businesses bring to the area.

During the April special council presentation, Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey paid tribute to the enduring legacy of Mr. Willie Frank Middlebrooks, a pillar of the Homestead community whose contributions spanned over seven decades. She presented a heartfelt posthumous proclamation to the family of Mr. Middlebrooks, celebrating his unwavering dedication to the betterment of his surroundings and the lives of those around him.

Mr. Middlebrooks, a man revered for his selflessness and philanthropic endeavors, notably his steadfast commitment to the Homestead Soup Kitchen, leaves behind a rich legacy of compassion and service. His tireless efforts to uplift the community and provide assistance to those in need have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

A devoted husband, father, and business owner, Mr. Middlebrooks, alongside his beloved wife, worked tirelessly on the family farm, providing employment opportunities for local residents and supplying fresh produce to the Homestead Soup Kitchen.

Survived by his loving wife, thirteen children, seventy grandchildren, and a vast network of family, friends, and well-wishers, Mr. Middlebrooks's influence transcends generations. His dedication to fostering a stronger, more compassionate community has solidified his status as a staple in both the Homestead and Florida City communities.

In honoring the life and legacy of Mr. Willie Frank Middlebrooks, Councilwoman Bailey and the City Council of Homestead recognize the profound impact he has had on countless lives and express heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones who were present to receive the proclamation.

The Haitian Pastor’s Association and Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey are thrilled to announce the much-anticipated Haitian Heritage Celebration, set to take place on Saturday, May 18th, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Losner Park, located at 104 N Krome Ave, Homestead, FL 33030.

This vibrant celebration aims to honor and showcase the rich tapestry of Haitian culture through an array of exciting activities and experiences. Attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Haiti, promising an evening filled with joy, community, and cultural appreciation.

For more information email jday@cityofhomestead.com

During the special council presentation in March, Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey and Councilwoman Erica Ávila paid tribute to fourteen women across various city departments in honor of Women’s History Month. The purpose of this presentation was to acknowledge the individuals for their contributions to their departments. Throughout the presentation, Councilwoman Bailey and Ávila underscored the importance of commemorating Women’s History Month and shining a light on women's achievements, showcasing their capabilities.   “We asked each department to nominate a superwoman in their office who exemplifies hard work and dedication,” remarked Councilwoman Bailey. "We are so thankful for each woman standing up here today and wanted to recognize them and give them a little something to display in their offices,” said Councilwoman Avila as she handed each nominee an orchid flower with a beautiful vase reminiscent of mother nature. 

Councilwoman Bailey and Councilwoman Ávila extended their appreciation to the group of remarkable and courageous women, namely Christine Hodges, Alicia Witherell, Brittany Maiquez, Deborah Lee Thomas, Nancy Aguirre, Pamela Springle, Julissa Chavez, Crystal Ollivierre, Roxanne Figueroa, Priscilla Thompson, Maliqua Carter, Carla Zavala, Gladys Salas, Janeth Gomez, and Jasmine Day, who consistently demonstrate exceptional dedication to the welfare of Homestead. This initiative not only highlighted the contributions of women within the city workforce but also demonstrated their remarkable efforts both professionally and personally.

In a heartwarming ceremony dedicated to acknowledging exceptional achievements within City of Homestead staff, Councilwoman Bailey proudly recognized Monica De Leon-Herrera for attaining the "Certified Municipal Clerk" designation. In an expression of gratitude for her outstanding contributions, Monica received a commendation during the presentation, underscoring her remarkable dedication and selflessness in her role.

Councilwoman Bailey took center stage to commend Mrs. De Leon-Herrera for her exceptional performance and dedication. The attainment of the Certified Municipal Clerk designation is a prestigious recognition reserved for individuals who consistently surpass their regular duties to serve the community.

Monica, a valuable member of the City of Homestead since March 2018, initially as an administrative assistant and later as Deputy City Clerk, joined the ranks of the Florida Association of City Clerks and the Miami-Dade County Municipal Clerks Association in June 2018. Out of over 596 members in the Florida Association of City Clerks, only about 210 have achieved the Certified Municipal Clerk designation.

The ceremony highlighted Monica's substantial efforts in fulfilling the rigorous requirements for the certification, involving 120 student instructor contact hours, in-depth courses, and significant municipal experience. The program equips applicants to tackle the challenges of complex municipal clerk roles, providing quality education through partnerships with higher learning institutions.

Councilwoman Bailey extended her congratulations to Monica on behalf of the Mayor and council, inviting the entire City Clerk's office and Monica's family to join the celebration.

Monica de Leon-Herrera expressed deep gratitude for achieving her CMC certification, recognizing the City for enabling her accomplishment. She emphasized the honor of achieving this milestone in her hometown and thanked all involved, including council members, the City Manager, and her family, especially her husband and children, for their unwavering support. Monica also expressed appreciation for her mother, siblings, and father. She credited influential women in her professional journey and acknowledged the exceptional collaboration within the city clerk's staff, particularly her colleagues. 

At the January Special Council Presentation, Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey introduced the artists for the recently concluded "Artist in the Spotlight" Gallery Night. The Gallery Night, which took place at the prestigious Seminole Theater, is a collaboration with the Friends of the Seminole Theater, and was a magical evening that showcased the remarkable talent of local artists. Councilwoman Bailey, a staunch supporter of the arts, took the opportunity to unveil an exciting initiative. Homestead will now have, at least once or twice a year, an "Artist in the Spotlight" dedicated specifically to the Homestead Center for the Arts. This addition is a testament to the city's commitment to fostering a thriving arts community and creating a platform for local artists to shine. 

"In celebrating the 'Artist in the Spotlight' Gallery Night, we aim to capture the vibrant tapestry of creativity flourishing within our community," remarked Councilwoman Bailey, underlining the depth and diversity of Homestead's artistic milieu. Charlie Hudson, speaking on behalf of the Homestead Center for the Arts, echoed this sentiment, expressing heartfelt appreciation for the city's unwavering endorsement of the program. The artists featured were Sandra Albornoz, Ricardo Arnaldo, Leonard Askowitz, MaryDee Burkhart, Mimi Dickson, Oscar Martinez, Marie Ferraro, MariaPilar Geada, Angelisa Halsey, Hugh Hudson, Bower Joann, Barbara Livieri, Inna Malostovker, Claudia Masella, Zeida Cecilia-Mendez, Wanda Montas, Ernesto Rodriguez-Corria, Valentina Rodriguez, Terre Rybovich, Susan Sorrentino, Melody Thorpe, Patricia Vetterello, and Frances Salbarrey. As Councilwoman Bailey aptly articulated, this initiative stands as a cornerstone of Homestead's cultural identity, providing a cherished platform for local artists to illuminate their craft. 

About the Artist in the Spotlight Program 

Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey is now championing the Artist in the Spotlight program originally spearheaded by former Councilman Stephen R. Shelley.  The Artist in the Spotlight program was created in 2010 and is curated to highlight the talents of local artists and allow them to showcase their artwork to the local community.  If you are interested in participating or know of a local artist in the area from Broward, Dade, or Monroe Counties, please contact Councilwoman Bailey’s office at (305) 224-4454 or jday@cityofhomestead.com.  Artists who live in or near the City of Homestead will be given preference.

Homestead’s Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey is looking for local artists to participate in the Artist in the Spotlight program who are interested in displaying their work that features black history in honor of Black History Month. Participating artists will be able to display their artwork in the Seminole Theatre lobby for a period of two months and host an artist reception on February 22^nd at the Seminole Theatre.  Additionally, the artist will be recognized and given the opportunity to promote their artwork at a Homestead City Council Meeting.  The Artist in the Spotlight program is open to all types of artistic mediums and formats and to individuals, art clubs, and schools.

“The purpose of our Artist in the Spotlight program is to shine a light on our local artists and bring people together,” says Councilwoman Bailey, an avid lover and supporter of the arts.  “We want to engage the community by providing them a space to display their art and continue to be meaningful contributors to Homestead’s culture.” 

The deadline for submissions is Monday, February 12, 2024

About the Artist in the Spotlight Program

The Artist in the Spotlight program, championed by Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey, was created in 2010 by Councilman Stephen Shelley and is curated to highlight the talents of local artists and allow them to showcase their artwork to the local community.  If you are interested in participating or know of a local artist in the area from Broward, Dade, or Monroe Counties, please contact Councilwoman Bailey’s office at jday@cityofhomestead.com with contact information and a sample of the artwork to be submitted. Artists who live in or near the City of Homestead will be given preference.

Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey is delighted to introduce the Firefighter of the Year Award, a distinguished initiative dedicated to honoring and celebrating the exceptional devotion, bravery, and outstanding service of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) firefighters who consistently exceed the call of duty in safeguarding our community. 

Councilwoman Bailey orchestrated this initiative to emphasize her unwavering support for our local heroes. A panel of esteemed judges carefully evaluated nominations for the Firefighter of the Year Award, with a focus on exceptional performance, acts of heroism, commitment to public safety, and positive community impact. Nominees were submitted by family, friends, and esteemed colleagues. 

The evening commenced with a heartfelt welcome from Councilwoman Bailey, who remarked, "'The idea for this award came from the need to emphasize the significance of recognizing our first responders and paying homage to their selfless commitment to the community.'" The event stood as a testament to the City of Homestead's dedication to lauding the remarkable qualities embodied by its finest firefighters.

The first award of the evening, the Historical Preservation Award, was presented to David Fernandez. David's tireless efforts in preserving historical items from the old City of Homestead Fire Department station 16 were celebrated as a testament to his unwavering commitment to preserving the city's firefighting heritage.

The Longest Serving Firefighter Award was presented to Raymond Barry, a dedicated individual who has devoted over 25 years of his life to serving the community. His colleagues and the community at large commended him for his selflessness and steadfast commitment.

The evening's most prestigious honor, the Firefighter of the Year Award, was conferred upon Donald Champion. Beyond his firefighting duties, Donald was acknowledged for his remarkable contributions to the community. His compassion, kindness, and dedication to assisting neighbors and inspiring the youth earned him this distinction.

In her address, Councilwoman Bailey expressed her immense pride in launching the Firefighter of the Year Award, underscoring its role as a platform for recognizing and appreciating the remarkable dedication and sacrifices made by our Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Firefighters. She urged community members, fellow firefighters, and colleagues to actively participate in this initiative, emphasizing the opportunity to honor those who consistently go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents. Councilwoman Bailey encouraged the community to cherish and support their local heroes who work tirelessly to keep Homestead safe.

The City of Homestead Firefighter of the Year Award presentation was an inspiring occasion that showcased the exceptional contributions of these dedicated firefighters and celebrated their service to the community. It serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of demonstrating compassion, empathy, and dedication in serving the public, especially during the quiet hours of the night when the community needs them most. The City of Homestead expresses its deep appreciation to all first responders for their unwavering commitment to the well-being of the community.

Perseverance is one of the values of the City of Homestead and has committed to recognizing those who represent it. Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey, a prominent advocate for educational excellence and community empowerment, presented Janiya Baker with a commendation due to her remarkable journey of academic advancement and her exceptional accomplishments at Homestead Senior High School.

During the August special council presentation,  Councilwoman Bailey took the opportunity to highlight Baker's dedication to education and recognized her as an exemplary role model within the community. “Janiya Baker's journey reflects the essence of perseverance and the limitless potential of our young individuals. Her achievements stand as a testament to the support of her mentors, educators, and the community. It is an honor to recognize Janiya's outstanding accomplishments," stated Councilwoman Bailey.

Principal Samuel Louis, of Homestead Senior High School acknowledged Janiya's exceptional journey emphasizing the importance of determination and confidence, qualities that align with the school's mission to nurture future leaders. The room was filled with a sense of admiration as attendees applauded. Janiya's family also expressed gratitude, specifically thanking the Homestead Senior High School staff for their support. Her mother shared her daughter's commitment to excellence and expressed her pride and love for Janiya. 

Councilwoman Bailey has consistently championed educational initiatives and community development efforts. Her commitment to fostering positive change and empowering young individuals has made her a respected figure within the city. Through her leadership, she continues to advocate for the recognition and celebration of individuals like Janiya Baker who exemplify dedication and excellence.

During the May presentations, a WLPG news clip video of the T-1 Racing team was viewed by Council members and a full house in council chambers. Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey then took the opportunity to recognize the “We Can All Race” Foundation and their T-1 race team, based at the Homestead-Miami Speedway. The “We Can All Race” Foundation has been recognized in the media by WLPG-Channel 10, and others for the team’s on-going efforts to raise funds for diabetes (Type 1) research while having fun karting.

Karting is expensive, so the T-1 team is always looking for sponsors to help support the drivers. Kart racing is a great way for kids to learn the value of teamwork and build their confidence through learning about kart racing.

Foundation leader and karting enthusiast, Walter Jenkins, and his son, Walter Jenkins Jr., who has been racing since he was six years old, are proud to be part of the inclusive and diverse, City of Homestead. The City of Homestead has stood as a model of diversity to Mr. Jenkins and the members of the T-1 karting team. To honor their efforts, Councilwoman Bailey presented the team with a twelve- inch tall, race themed trophy that was crowned at the top with a racing helmet.

About We Can All Race

WeCAR is a public charity that was founded to fix the issue of funding for young racers while promoting diversity. Its mission is to create champions in life, not just on the track. Whether physical or virtual racing, some of the most talented drivers have never been seen at the highest level of racing due to financial limitations. Racing is one of the most expensive sports and the charity aims to change that forever through dedicated support from businesses and individuals who believe in the mission of wanting to see diversity within the sport of racing at all levels. For more information about the organization visit https://wecanallrace.com/.

Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey is pleased to announce the Firefighter of the Year Award is open for nominations. This prestigious award aims to recognize and honor the outstanding dedication, bravery, and exceptional service of Miami Dade County Fire Rescue (MDCFR) firefighters who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in serving and protecting our community.

The Firefighter of the Year Award is a testament to the commitment and selflessness demonstrated by Miami-Dade County's finest firefighters. It acknowledges the individuals who have exhibited exemplary qualities in their daily work, showing extraordinary bravery, professionalism, and service to others.

Nominations for the Firefighter of the Year Award are open to all active Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue firefighters. The award seeks to highlight those individuals who have demonstrated outstanding performance in emergency response, community engagement, leadership, and innovation. Nominations can be submitted by fellow firefighters, colleagues, community members, or individuals from the City of Homestead who have witnessed or experienced the exceptional efforts of a firefighter in the line of duty.

"We are proud to launch the Firefighter of the Year Award, which serves as a platform to recognize and appreciate the remarkable dedication and sacrifice of our Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue firefighters," said Councilwoman Bailey. "We encourage community members, fellow firefighters, and colleagues to take part in this opportunity to honor those who have gone above and beyond their call of duty to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents."

A panel of distinguished judges will review the nominations and select the recipient of the Firefighter of the Year Award. The chosen firefighter will be presented with a commendation at a special ceremony held later this year.

Nominations for the Firefighter of the Year Award can be submitted online at www.cityofhomestead.com/firefighter. Nominees will be evaluated based on their exceptional performance, acts of heroism, commitment to public safety, and positive impact on the community.

About Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue:

Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue is a dedicated team of highly skilled professionals committed to protecting and serving the residents of Miami-Dade County. With a focus on excellence, compassion, and innovation, MDCFR provides fire suppression, emergency medical services, technical rescue, hazardous materials response, and other specialized services to ensure the safety and well-being of the community

 As May is Mental Health Awareness Month, Councilwoman Bailey spoke about a few points of importance, “Art is known and proven to reduce depression and anxiety. Art therapy is important as a creative outlet for many people including those who have suffered trauma during their lives, veterans, children, young adults, and for many, art is an expression of emotions, both spoken and unspoken. She also talked about the impact of art, processing, and interpretation for both the artists themselves on their own path to creative fulfillment and the individuals viewing the artwork.

Community artists and the artist from the Le Jardin School that were in attendance were invited to join Ms. Bailey at the dais. It was a huge and impressive display of talent as all the artists moved to the front of the chamber to be recognized for their skill and genius. They each brought their own pieces of art to show. Ms. Susan Sorentino spoke about her art piece that reflected domestic violence and the impact that issue had on her creative process. All the selections brought to the front were original and unique. The highlight of all this talent will be on display to highlight the upcoming Artists in the Spotlight Gallery Night at the Seminole Theatre. The exhibit will on Friday May 12^th at 6:00 pm. The exhibition will focus on the talented individuals in the Homestead community.

About the Artist in the Spotlight Program 

Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey is now championing the Artist in the Spotlight program originally spearheaded by former Councilman Stephen R. Shelley.  The Artist in the Spotlight program was created in 2010 and is curated to highlight the talents of local artists and allow them to showcase their artwork to the local community.  If you are interested in participating or know of a local artist in the area from Broward, Dade, or Monroe Counties, please contact Councilwoman Bailey’s office at (305) 224-4454 or jday@cityofhomestead.com.   Artists who live in or near the City of Homestead will be given preference.

Florida has one of the highest rates of unintentional drownings among children in the United States, a statistic that Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey is working to change with the help of Firefighter Chief Ricardo Centeno and Fire Station 16.  At the November Special Council Presentation, Councilwoman Bailey presented a certificate of appreciation to Chief Centeno and Fire Station 16 for their donation of life jackets to Roby George Park Pool.  

“Having residents feel safe and confident while in the pool is the ultimate goal of the program” stated Councilwoman Bailey. She continued “I’ve had the pleasure to work with Chief Centeno on several water safety programs including distributing water safety lanyards at Roby George Park Pool.”

“The life jackets will save lives and put less strain on lifeguards,” remarked Chief Centeno as members of Fire Station 16 joined him by the dais to accept the certificate of appreciation.  

To prevent drowning, life jackets function as a way to keep the swimmer’s head above water. The life jackets will be available at the swimming pool free of charge for both adults and children. Swimmers can pick up the life jackets as they enter Roby George Park pool and return them at the end of their swim.  

The life jackets will be an additional safety measure at the pool with lifeguards on staff at all times. The pool at Roby George Park (201 SW 11th Avenue, Homestead, FL 33030) is free to use for Homestead residents and is open Monday through Friday 3pm -7pm and 10am – 6pm on weekends. Guests who live outside the city limits will be charged $2 to use the facility. 

Later in the presentation, Councilwoman Bailey also announced that a Firefighter of the Year program will commence this year, stating “it’s a way to say thank you to the brave individuals that have gone above and beyond and always respond when they are needed.”    

At the September 2022 Special Council Presentation Ceremony, Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey presented a proclamation to the Homestead Elks Lodge #1078 to celebrate their 81^st Anniversary. The Elks Lodge is an international organization that has chapters all over the world. The Elks Lodge #1078 in the Southwest area is dedicated to serving the local community by offering a safe space for its members and the community through philanthropic efforts. 

“It is not every day that a local organization celebrates 81 years in Homestead, and I wanted to take the time to thank them for being a pillar in our Southwest community,” commented Councilwoman Bailey. “It is organizations like these that instill wholesome values through charity, togetherness, and providing support for those who live in the area.” 

Elks Lodge #1078 has been in Homestead since 1941 and is a local non-profit organization. Their goal is to serve the community by sponsoring local athletes, distribute Thanksgiving Day baskets, and host Christmas dinners. They also donate the building, free of charge to provide a safe space for the community to hold events such as dances for the youth, baby showers, and other activities. 

About the Elks Lodge

The Elks Lodge is an international organization that was originally founded in New York City in 1868 and has grown to over 500,000 chapters in cities around the world. The mission of the Elks Lodge is to inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize a belief in God; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its Members; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; to cultivate good fellowship; to perpetuate itself as a fraternal organization, and to provide for its government, and serve the people and communities through benevolent programs. The Elks sponsor drug awareness and prevention programs, raise money for schools and recreational facilities, award college scholarships, help the poor through various charities, and honor veterans.

Arts and cultural activity is an essential dimension of communities and community building processes. It depends heavily on having an effective system of support and Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey wants to ensure that artists in the community are supported through the Artist in the Spotlight Program. The artists featured were all exhibitors at the Homestead Art in the Park event earlier this year and were chosen based on their distinctive styles. The artists selected were Lorenzo Acosta, Alvin Hernandez De Leon, Shannon Trezona, Dianna Escamilla, Andres Carmiol, and Jorge DeLeon. They stepped up to the dais to present their work and each had a chance to say a few words about what an incredible opportunity that was for them to be able to present their art to the community, once again. 

“One of our main goals with this program is to inspire new passions,” remarked Councilwoman Bailey. “And the fabulous artists we are presenting today do just that and we want to support them in any way we can.” 

In order to support the artists selected, Councilwoman Bailey, along with the Seminole Theatre, hosted an opening reception on Thursday, October 13th at 6:00 pm at the Seminole Theatre lobby, located at 18 N. Krome Ave, Homestead, FL 33030. The art was displayed for viewing and residents had the opportunity to purchase these one-of-a-kind pieces. The art display will be available for viewing at the Seminole Theatre during business hours.  

About the Artist in the Spotlight Program 

Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey is now championing the Artist in the Spotlight program originally spearheaded by former Councilman Stephen R. Shelley.  The Artist in the Spotlight program was created in 2010 and is curated to highlight the talents of local artists and allow them to showcase their artwork to the local community.  If you are interested in participating or know of a local artist in the area from Broward, Dade, or Monroe Counties, please contact Councilwoman Bailey’s office at (305) 224-4454 or jday@cityofhomestead.com.  Artists who live in or near the City of Homestead will be given preference.

At the Wednesday, October 5^th, 2022  Special Call meeting Mayor and Council approved for the City of Homestead to donate $10,000 towards Hurricane Ian relief efforts.

If residents would like to donate to those affected by Hurricane Ian, the City of Homestead encourages those in the community to donate to the Florida Disaster Fund. The Florida Disaster Fund is where individuals and organizations can make monetary donations for those affected by Hurricane Ian. This is the State of Florida’s official private fund established to assist Florida’s communities as they respond to and recover during times of emergency or disaster. In partnership with the public sector, private sector, and other non-governmental organizations, the Florida Disaster Fund supports response and recovery activities.

To donate visit https://www.volunteerflorida.org/donatefdf/ or text  “DISASTER” ($10) or “DISASTER25” ($25) to 20222

Homestead’s Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey is looking for local artists to participate in the Artist in the Spotlight program.  Participating artists will be able to display their artwork in the Seminole Theatre lobby for a period of two months and host an artist reception or workshop during that time.  Additionally, the artist will be recognized and given the opportunity to promote their artwork at a Homestead City Council Meeting.  The Artist in the Spotlight program is open to all types of artistic mediums and formats and to individuals, art clubs and schools.

“The purpose of our Artist in the Spotlight program is to shine a light on our local artists and bring people together,” says Councilwoman Bailey, an avid lover and supporter of the arts.  “We want to engage the community by providing them a space to display their art and continue to be meaningful contributors to Homestead’s culture.” 

About the Artist in the Spotlight Program

The Artist in the Spotlight program, championed by Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey, was created in 2010 by Councilman Stephen Shelley and is curated to highlight the talents of local artists and allow them to showcase their artwork to the local community.  If you are interested in participating or know of a local artist in the area from Broward, Dade, or Monroe Counties, please contact Councilwoman Bailey’s office at (305) 224-4454 or jday@cityofhomestead.com.  Artists who live in or near the City of Homestead will be given preference.

At the July Special Council Presentation Ceremony, Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey awarded four local organizations a scholarship to help them advance and thrive in the community. The recipients were Prodigy Dance Studio, Build Your Own Legacy, Homestead High School Bronco Marching Band and Out Loud Artistry. The scholarships were awarded as part of the 5^th annual Artwalk event hosted by Councilwoman Bailey and the South West Advisory Committee. The theme of the event was Art in Motion and the organizations selected embody that notion. 

“We are so excited to be able to offer these organizations support to continue to grow and serve the Homestead community,” remarked Councilwoman Bailey. “This small token is aimed at building   relationships between these programs and the City of Homestead to feel supported and succeed in our community.”

The scholarships offered were even more substantial as Commissioner Kionne McGhee matched the donation of the South West Advisory Committee to bring the total scholarship to $2,000 per organization. Each organization was introduced and was invited to step in front of the dais to receive their check and say a few words about their organization and their cause. 

About Prodigy Dance Studio

Prodigy Dance Studios opened their doors right before the pandemic began. They struggled and pushed through to offer the Homestead community a top-level dance studio. They have over 30 years combined experience and their mission is to develop and train dancers. They recently won 1^st place at the Patty Mayo’s Redneck Talent Show held at Homestead’s very own Seminole Theatre. Prodigy Dance Studio’s mission is to instill important values such as discipline, confidence and control all while perfecting quality of movement. Their classes offer a variety of dance styles including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Acro, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Stretch, Musical Theatre, Zumba, Reggaeton, and Ballroom. 

About Build Your Own Legacy

Build Your Own Legacy, the youth basketball league has served the Homestead community for four years. Their goal is to motivate, uplift, and inspire the children of Homestead. They provide alternatives  for the youth to participate in activities and keep them entertained while building important lifelong values. They practice weekly and attend tournaments to compete against other leagues around the country and recently earned 2^nd place in the AAU Basketball Memorial Day Classic in Orlando, FL.

About the Homestead High School Bronco Marching Band

The Homestead High School Marching Band had made incredible strides in the last few years. The new band director Alain Rodriguez revived the program. When he started the band consisted of a few students with drums, now the Broncos band program has grown to include a full marching and concert band. They recently attended the Florida Bandmasters Association Solo & Ensemble Music Performance Assessment, an event they had not qualified for in 16 years! The band is continuing to grow and improve and the City of Homestead is eager to see what they accomplish next. 

About Out Loud Artistry 

Out Loud Artistry (OLA) is a performing arts training program designed for ages 5 & up. OLA is comprised of multi-level performance groups, community and company classes, and summer and after-school programs. They primarily focus on dance, theater, voice/diction, visual arts, live instrumentation, and mentoring. They use a mix of approaches such as discipline-based arts education, cultural literacy, creative self-expression, arts education as preparation for the world of work, arts and cognitive development, and integrated arts.

At the Special Council Presentation Ceremony, Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey recognized Homestead students Aaron and Michael Berry for winning Disney’s Magic Bake off with certificates of recognition. This televised competition consists of three teams of young bakers, between ages 6 to 14, who compete against the clock to design a Disney inspired cake in the hopes of being named “Disney Baking Champion”. Aaron and Michael participated in Episode 1 of Season 1; their challenge was to make a Disney Descendants themed wedding cake.

“One of the reasons we wanted to honor these two students, not only for this achievement but for their program Boys That Bake” Councilwoman Bailey commented, “they not only teach other boys how to bake but also talk about bullying.”

The Berry siblings created Boys that Bake, to promote brotherhood amongst other boys who not only enjoy baking but have been bullied in the past for it. It’s an initiative that started as a community service hours project and evolved into zoom classes, events, and this summer they will be teaching in local summer camps. They can be reached via their Instagram handle @BoysThatBakeMiami 

Teaching arts at a young age has been proven to help not only in building academic skills and boosting academic performance, but also helps engage and empower young people. This was the inspiration behind Councilwoman Bailey’s selection of the student artists from Advanced Achievers Academy for this this month’s Artist in the Spotlight.

“I don’t say this often” Councilwoman Bailey remarked, “but I would put all these pieces in my house, I love the pieces, the culture and the work behind it.” 

The Advanced Achievers Academy is a local non-profit private school with the mission to help its students succeed and "soar high above the rest". The arts program mentor, Kayla J. Montizan, who will be featured at the exhibit was proud to present the students who will exhibiting alongside her: Kaylin Fernandez, Sasha Mendez, Kristofer Rodriguez, Filomena Cruz, Andrea Ramos and Asia Ellis. These students, who attend from 7^th to 11^th grade, used a variety of techniques including marker, oil pastel, acrylic, and watercolor on paper.

On Thursday, June 16^th at 6:00 pm Councilwoman Bailey will host the opening reception at the Seminole Theatre lobby, located at 18 N. Krome Ave, Homestead, FL 33030. The art display will be available for viewing at the Seminole Theatre during business hours.  

About the Artist in the Spotlight Program

Councilwoman Jenifer N. Bailey is now championing the Artist in the Spotlight program originally spearheaded by former Councilman Stephen R. Shelley.  The Artist in the Spotlight program was created in 2010 and is curated to highlight the talents of local artists and allow them to showcase their artwork to the local community.  If you are interested in participating or know of a local artist in the area from Broward, Dade, or Monroe Counties, please contact Councilwoman Bailey’s office at (305) 224-4454 or jday@cityofhomestead.com.  Artists who live in or near the City of Homestead will be given preference.

At the April Special Council Presentation Ceremony, Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey presented a proclamation to celebrate the 54^th anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act and declare April 2022 as Fair Housing Month. This act established a national policy that prohibits discrimination based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, and natural origin. The City of Homestead along with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development are working together to realize the dream of fair and affordable housing for all residents. The City of Homestead is committed to addressing the discrimination in the Homestead community and support programs that will educate the public about the right to equal housing opportunities and plan partnership efforts with other organizations to ensure the right to fair housing. 

“Fair housing is an important part of every community. We want our residents to be treated fairly and have options to choose from when deciding where to live,” remarked Councilwoman Bailey, “It is very important to hold the annual observance and continue to reinforce and remind the community of the Fair Housing Act that was passed many years ago.”

The City of Homestead works closely with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to enforce the Fair Housing Act throughout the Homestead Community and manages fair housing complaints in partnership with Miami-Dade County. The proclamation is an annual observance to promote awareness of Fair Housing practices and recommit the Fair Housing Act’s goals. 

More About the Fair Housing Act:

Fair Housing policies in the United States were developed largely in the 1960s. Originally, the terms “fair housing” and “open housing” came from a political movement of the time to outlaw discrimination in the rental or purchase of homes and a broad range of other housing-related transactions, such as advertising, mortgage lending, homeowner's insurance and zoning. The goal is to offer equal access to safe, decent, and affordable housing to all by combating housing discrimination. 

Homestead residents can find information on fair housing and the Community Development Block Grant at www.cityofhomestead.com/cdbg. Or, for further information, call the City of Homestead’s Finance Department at 305-224-4553. 

At the  Special Council Presentation Ceremony, Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey recognized the Homestead Senior High School Band for displaying extraordinary excellence at statewide competition. They attended the Florida Bandmasters Association Solo & Ensemble Music Performance Assessment where they received the rating of excellent. This was the first time in 16 years that Homestead Senior High was able to attend the assessment. The band director and students dedicated many hours of practice to hone their skills and earn the much-deserved rating . The band director was given a Certificate of Recognition for his dedication and guidance that led the students to this important accomplishment. Each band member also received a personal Certificate of Recognition and one to hang in the classroom at Homestead Senior High.

“We are very proud of you for this huge accomplishment,” remarked Councilwoman Bailey. “I am a proponent and supporter of the arts so I am delighted to see the youth of Homestead working so hard and representing the community in a positive light.” 

The purpose of the Florida Bandmasters Association Solo & Ensemble Music Performance Assessment is to provide an opportunity for students and directors to perform in an environment that provides critical evaluation of its performance by noted experts in the field. They perform to their peers in a formal concert setting and serves as a motivational goal for students and directors.

Schools from all over the state attend the performance assessment to earn their rating and see where they rank among their peers. Councilwoman Bailey then took the opportunity to announce that the Homestead Senior High School band will be performing at the annual Artwalk in the Park event on Saturday, May 28^th, 2022 from 1pm to 5pm at Blakey Park for those interested in seeing them in action and congratulating them on earning there prestigious rating.  

At the March Special Council Presentation, Councilwoman Jenifer Bailey honored the life and legacy of Homestead resident Mr. Everett E. Sewer. Mr. Sewer was an educator at the West Homestead K-8 Center for over 30 years. He led the 5,000 Role Models mentoring program to provide guidance and a safe space to the underrepresented youth in Homestead. He received multiple awards during his tenure including Teacher of the Year and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award. He instilled the love of learning into the children he taught and was a true champion of education. 

“Mr. Sewer devoted over 35 years of his life to educating the southwest community. He saw the safe departure of thousands of students,” reflected his colleague, Shandra Mallary. “He was not only an educator, he was a father figure, a mentor and definitely someone in the community that families always reflect upon his unwavering support for the needs of the underserved community. Although he is no longer here with us, his lasting impact on education will forever live on.” 

The remarks by Ms. Mallary were followed by a heartfelt tribute video as well as a few words from his brother, as family and colleagues gathered around the dais to honor his legacy.