News Flash

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.

During the March special council presentation, Councilwoman Erica G. Ávila recognized Girl Scout Troop 1855 for outstanding achievements in this year's Girl Scout cookie season. They earned the title of the highest-selling troop with 920 boxes sold for the Hometown Heroes Cookie program where customers had the option to donate cookies to local heroes such as Homestead Police, doctors, nurses, teachers, members of the military, and firefighters, as well as local city staff.  Out of the 920 boxes sold, troop member Sophia Zamora sold 701 boxes, making her the top seller for the Hometown Heroes Program. Not only was Sophia the top cookie seller for the program, she also earned the title of #2 cookie-selling scout in all of South Florida which spans from West Palm Beach to the Florida Keys by selling 5,821 boxes. 

“I am so proud of this troop and their accomplishments," remarked Councilwoman Ávila. “They sold 13,529 boxes of cookies in 6 weeks, if we think about that number in Thin Mints, for example, with 32 cookies per box, that amounts to 432,928 cookies sold and that is no small feat!”

Girl Scout Troop 1855 achieved their goals through various strategies from how they approached potential customers, to upselling tactics, and setting up tables in high-traffic areas such as grocery stores and colleges. Each of the troop members received certificates of recognition that highlighted the outstanding entrepreneurial skills that Girl Scout Troop 1855 displayed. Through cookie sales, they learned important skills such as financial literacy, money management, community service, and strategic planning. The proceeds from the initiatives are used to fund educational seminars and activities such as camping, and the upcoming Girl Scout Convention that is set to take place in Washington DC in 2026. The funds will also help to cover the cost of membership renewals, uniforms, and patches. Councilwoman Ávila emphasized the importance of their dedication and contributions to the community. This presentation not only showcased the girls' achievements but also promoted community involvement by giving back to both the community and those who serve it.

About the Girl Scouts of America

The Girl Scouts of America enjoy a national reputation for their renowned cookie sales, which serve as a primary source of funding for local Girl Scout troops' activities. These initiatives are pivotal in instilling five fundamental principles: goal setting, decision-making, financial management, interpersonal skills, and ethical business practices. Spanning diverse programs nationwide, Girl Scouts of varying backgrounds and capabilities are encouraged to embrace their individuality while uncovering their strengths and conquering new challenges. Whether scaling a tree or excelling academically, embarking on a hike or advocating for environmental sustainability, the opportunities are boundless. Supported by dedicated adult volunteers, mentors, and a vast network of alumnae, Girl Scouts pave the way by amplifying their voices and effecting meaningful changes on issues close to their hearts. 

An uplifting evening took place during the July Council presentation as Councilwoman Erica Ávila, Councilwoman Patricia Fairclough-Staggers, and Vice Mayor Julio Guzman came together to honor local businesses in the Homestead community. These businesses were recognized for their unwavering dedication and support to the military community, providing free services, discounts, and contributing to fundraising efforts.

“The City of Homestead boasts a rich military history, and these exceptional businesses have embraced the spirit of service by extending their hands to those who serve,” Remarked Councilwoman Fairclough-Staggers. “Their commitment to supporting the military personnel and their families has left a lasting impact on the community and beyond.”

Councilwoman Erica Ávila emphasized the importance of recognizing these businesses as a means to encourage and inspire other local enterprises to step forward and contribute to the military community in Homestead. By acknowledging these businesses' efforts, the council aims to foster a culture of appreciation and support for the military, further strengthening the bond between the military personnel and the civilian population. Councilwoman Ávila also encouraged businesses that cater to local heroes, such as service members, law enforcement, first responders, educators and healthcare professionals, to contact her office to be added to the hero-friendly business list. 

During the ceremony, Lieutenant Colonel David "Malibu" Sproehnle and Captain Arnold Perez, representing the Homestead Air Reserve Base, expressed their gratitude on behalf of the military community. To commemorate the occasion, they presented the honored businesses with flags that were flown during air support training missions earlier in the month.

About the Businesses Recognized

Lowes Home Improvement, located at 1850 Campbell Dr, Homestead, Florida 33033, was recognized for the inclusion of preferred parking spaces for military and veterans at the store.

Texas Roadhouse, located at 33250 S Dixie Hwy, Florida City, Florida 33034, was recognized for their ongoing commitment to partnering with the City of Homestead and Florida City to honor the military.  They have gone above and beyond the call of duty to provide free food and services to events like Military Appreciation Day that bring together the local civilian and military communities.

Casavana, located at 2814 NE 8th St, Homestead, Florida 33033, was recognized for offering a discount on all meals to military and veterans.

Lumo Graphics Center, located at 1470 N Homestead Blvd, Homestead, Florida 33030, was honored for their long-standing commitment to supporting military causes.   Over the years, the business has contributed countless dollars to support local military charities and events.

The certificates of recognition presented to these businesses not only highlight their efforts but also serve as a symbol of appreciation from the City of Homestead and its residents. Their actions embody the values that make Homestead a close-knit and thriving community.

Councilwoman Erica Ávila took the opportunity to recognize and make everyone aware of an incredibly special resident in the community of Waterstone, which she represents; District 5. It was her privilege to honor a hero for his extraordinary actions as she presented the HERO Award to Mr. Allen Caldwell.

Captain Owens, Homestead Police Department told the story to the chamber audience about the remarkable actions of Mr. Caldwell. On January 25^{th ,}2023, Mr. Caldwell witnessed an accident on the Fl. Turnpike, northbound at 288^th Street, as he was also driving at the same time, in the same area, northbound on the Fl Turnpike. The driver had lost control of their car, crashed through the barrier fence, and ended up in a lake on the west side of the Waterstone community. He saw the life-threatening accident as it was happening, in real-time. Mr. Caldwell pulled off to the side of the road and did not hesitate for a moment, and without regard for his own safety, jumped into the water. He was able to open the driver-side door and pull the driver out of the car and they both were able to make their way back to shore safely and without injury.

At the presentation, Mr. Caldwell, a retired military veteran, spoke about being a veteran and what that training meant to him, that he had no hesitation about jumping into the water and performing the rescue. A true act of heroism by a resident of the City of Homestead.

At the September Special Council Presentation Ceremony, Councilwoman Erica Ávila recognized local law enforcement for their extraordinary response to the recent threats made to local Homestead schools. The groups acted quickly and in unison to ensure the students were safe and the source was located. 

“When these situations occurred in two of our Homestead schools, I reached out to Miami-Dade County because I knew it was important to recognize the men and women in blue who did a phenomenal job in helping our children,” remarked Councilwoman Ávila. 

The agencies recognized were Homestead Police Department including Code Enforcement, dispatchers, and the social media team as well as Miami-Dade County School Board Police, Miami- Dade Fire Department, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, North Bay Village Police Department, FBI, Miami-Dade Police Priority Response Teams and K-9 Unit.  The various units were invited to step up to the dais to be recognized for their heroic and efficient efforts and receive Certificates of Recognition for each team member who helped to mitigate the situation. The certificates were presented on behalf of the City of Homestead, Commissioner Kionne McGhee, and Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. 

The law enforcement officials followed strict protocol to ensure that the threats were taken seriously and acted quickly and efficiently to ensure that Homestead students were safe. The schools were Keys Gate Charter School and Somerset Academy High School. Mayor and Council stepped forward to personally thank the law enforcement agencies and shake hands with each and every individual who played a crucial role in the safety of the Homestead community.

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

“Girl Scouts is where I became acquainted with the idea that a woman can do anything” 

• Lisa Ling, Journalist, and former Girl Scout 

At the May Special Council Presentation Ceremony, Councilwoman Erica G. Ávila recognized a local Homestead Girl Scout who single handedly sold almost $20,000 worth of product. Ten-year-old Sophia Zamora received a certificate of recognition for having sold a grand total of 3,820 Girl Scout Cookie boxes in just 6 weeks. 

“Not only is it important to recognize the hard work and entrepreneurial skills of a young lady,” said Councilwoman Ávila, “but as a Girl Scout, she made the top cookie seller in Miami -Dade County. We are all very proud of her.”

All the girls in Troop 1855 were called up to the dais where Miss Sophia received a Certificate of Achievement. The money raised by Sophia will help fund this new troop, which has been able to get back into action after the pandemic. Councilman Larry Roth remarked Miss Sophia’s sales pitch was flawless: she would offer 4 boxes for $20 and accept nothing less. When asked what her favorite part of the process was, Sophia simply replied “I like persuading people to buy more”. 

About the Girl Scouts of America

The Girl Scouts of America are known nationwide for their famous cookie sales, used to fund the activities for all local Girl Scout troops. Initiatives like these, help teach five core principles: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, and business ethics.

Through programs from coast to coast, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, the possibilities are endless. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them.

As the famous saying goes, “success doesn’t come to you, you have to work for it.” And Councilwoman Erica Ávila recognized the hard work that several Homestead youth sports teams dedicated in order to succeed. The teams recognized, at the February Special Council Presentation Ceremony, were the Dick Conley Steelers 12U Football Team, the Keys Gate Knights Varsity Cheer team and AYSO teams 12U girls, 12U boys, and 19U girls. The coaches as well as the teams received certificates of recognition presented on behalf of Councilwoman Ávila and the City Council.

“Coaches, this is in recognition of all your hard work for bringing champions home” remarked Councilwoman Ávila.  “We want our Homestead talent to come back to Homestead, so this is very important to all of us here on council to recognize our youth and our talent so that they can come back and be proud of where it all started.” 

The room was buzzing with excitement and anticipation as the teams were called up one by one to step in front of the dais to receive their Certificates of Recognition for their outstanding achievements. The coaches were also honored with their own Certificates of Recognition for teaching the future generation of Homestead to identify their strengths and work together to achieve a monumental goal. 

About the Teams

The Dick Conley Steelers 12U was the first team in their league’s history to compete at the Miami Extreme Championship. Not only did they qualify to compete but they also earned 2^nd place in the championship. Dick Conley Football is a local Homestead league that practices in Harris Field Park. They provide a place for the youth in the community to learn the great game of football in a competitive, fun, and safe environment. 

Keys Gate Knights Varsity Cheer team was celebrated for placing first at Diamonds Cheer and Dance Competition which made them eligible to compete statewide. The Knights Varsity Cheer team coaches stress the importance of teamwork, character building, and classroom success. They equip the athletes with not only how to become a better athlete, but also to become better at life skills.

AYSO had three teams that were honored for their recent wins. The 12U boys, 12U and 19U girls were celebrated for winning their respective Section 14 States Soccer games. AYSO is the local youth soccer league that plays at the City of Homestead Sports Complex. The goal of the league is to create a fun, family-friendly environment where each child can grow and develop their soccer skills as well as learn important life and social skills.