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Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Minutes of the Oct. 3 Meeting Belmont-DeVilliers Neighborhood Association


BELMONT-DEVILLIERS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 3, 2012 MEETING

The meeting was opened at 5:40 p.m. by President Dolores Curry. Attending were: Dolores Curry, Rosemary Kirkland, Vivian Lamont, Rev. Carl Reeves, Dottie Dubuisson, Sheikh Yusef Aziz, Pattie Krakowski, Ann Hill, Mary Cunningham, Joyce James, Eleanor Johnson, Beverly Perry, Eddie Todd, Rose George, Dr. Alexa Canady Davis, Rev. Eugene Franklin, Danny Lewis, Nielah Spears, Robin Reshard, Lloyd Reshard, Tony McCray Jr., Diane Mack, Councilman-designate Charles Bare, Councilmen Brian Spencer and Ronald Townsend,  Sonja Griffin Evans. Guest Sandra Ward of the Downtown Improvement Board. Minutes were read and approved.  

The Rev. Carl Reeves said the increase in officers on patrol continues to protect the city and that there is a distinct effort on the part of citizens to help law enforcement to combat crime.  Speeding along A Street has resulted in the writing of more tickets with the goal of getting drivers to slow down.

Vivian Lamont said the Belmont Youth Band will be moving next week and that they have been getting good press. The group performed at the Equinox Festival and will be playing at the Oct. 13 Glass Pumpkin Patch event at Long Hollow. One of the BYB students is now attending Pensacola State College on scholarship and the other is in 9th grade with a scholarship when he graduates from high school.

Eddie Todd noted the end-of-the-year fiscal pressure at NAS is over and he now plans to get back to his activities with the group.

Tony McCray and Dottie Dubuisson have been working on and turned in a number of applications for BP grants. Ms. Dubuisson also noted that the new landlord of the four troubled houses on Chase St. near A St. is moving forward on revitalizing those properties. She has the attorney information on the Mattie Marchese house at 423 West Gregory St. if anyone is interested in purchasing that property.

Ms. Dubuisson also gave a summary of upcoming meetings.

Diane Mack discussed the Bloomberg invitation to mayors to submit grant proposals. She brought in a copy of Mayor Ashton Hayward’s proposal for a Mobile Grocer, which would be a van that travels to areas of the city that are not close to fresh food grocers.

Ms. Mack has also set up some pointedly positive Facebook pages aptly named “Love Pensacola” and “Love Notes”. She invited members to visit these sites and “like” the pages and participate in writing 10 words or less on what they love about Pensacola or short notes about people they admire.

Pattie Krakowski suggested that people should use their Facebook to advertise for a lost dog, adding a photo and pertinent info and asking friends to share the post. One lost dog was recently found using Facebook within an hour. She said Emerald Coast Animal Allies would be participating in Barktoberfest this weekend. This is the group that received a $25,000 to offer for low-cost spay and neuter services. Info on this is at www.spayyourpets.org or 850-780-3223, #3. They also have low-cost rabies shot into, too.

Ms. Krakowski also is helping with a free Democratic Candidates meet and greet at 6:30 pm  on Oct. 23 at the Belmont Building, 401 N. Reus. 

Rose George reported that Delta Sigma Theta's nonprofit foundation applied for the PNJ's $5,000.00 Make a Difference Day grant. The grant was awarded to the Ronald McDonald House for family services. Delta's grant proposal was to do a series of parent/student workshops on current hot topics such as healthy eating, anti-bullying, and how parents can help students succeed in school. A book giveaway was also planned. The Delta's will move forward with this project even though they did not receive the grant.

Robin Reshard introduced her husband Lloyd and said she is finishing up the Belmont-DeVilliers documentary. Some invitations will be sent out for a private screening, but seating will necessarily be limited. She will also have a DVD of the sound track for sale soon – and states this would make an excellent gift for any and all occasions.

Dolores Curry thanked Sheikh Aziz for the award presented to her at the September meeting.

Alexa Canady Davis said the library board is considering reducing library hours and is trying to come up with an equitable solution across the system. She noted that Sonja Griffin Evans has donated artwork to the new library.

Councilman Ronald Townsend received a card and commendation on his retirement from Pensacola City Council.

Sandra Ward greeted members as the new temporary leader of the Downtown Improvement Board.

Ms. Curry gave an update on the PCIP grant sign and said we would contribute $600 toward the sign and 1,000 community hours that must be recorded and signed by each volunteer. There was some discussion of colors for the sign and the design.

Councilman Brian Spencer discussed the need for a full-court press on the school board in order to turn vacant school properties into affordable housing. Tony McCray, Dottie Dubuisson and Eddie Todd were tapped to work on this issue.

Nielah Spears, who has toured in the performing arts for the past 25 years, is now assisting Truth for Youth in its push for a new roof.  She has many plans for fundraising presentations.

Ms. Curry adjourned the meeting at 6:30 pm.

Joyce James of J&J Food for the Soul Café on DeVilliers Street then provided the group with an excellent buffet that included meatballs, chicken, fresh fruit, pasta and other salads, plus a pumpkin pie and coconut cake that were quickly consumed.

With this wonderful repast and great conversation, members departed just in time for the first Presidential debate.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

MINUTES OF THE AUG 1, 2012 MEETING

Many thanks to Eleanor Johnson for taking the minutes of this meeting. At the conclusion of the minutes, you'll find a copy of the letter that Neil Richards read at the last meeting of the Mayor's Urban Redevelopment Advisory Committee.


BELMONT-DEVILLIERS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
MINUTES OF THE AUGUST 1, 2012 MEETING
TAKEN BY ELEANOR JOHNSON AND TRANSCRIBED BY ANN HILL


The meeting was opened at 5:30 p.m. by President Dolores Curry. Attending were: Dolores Curry, Rosemary Kirkland, Rose George, Vivian Lamont, Rev. Carl Reeves, Alexa Canady-Davis, Dottie Dubuisson, Sheikh Yusuf, Diane Mack, Rose McPherson, Neil Richards, Danny Lewis, Eleanor Johnson, Gloria Horning, and Michael Conrad. Minutes were read and approved.  

The Rev. Carl Reeves assured us that all officers are in uniform and strongly on the lookout.

Dottie Dubuisson reported the Florida Neighborhood Conference that she attended. She noted that Jessica Bell from the office of sustainability has resigned and that Clark Merritt has been hired initially for the office of sustainability but moved to the 7th floor, possibly to John Asmar’s office. She asked if we could get someone to attend the sustainability meeting on Thursday.

Ms. Dubuisson also said there are citizen volunteer positions open on the Parks and Rec Board, International Relations, etc. Online forms need to be filled out and submitted to council by Aug. 6. For paid positions, please submit your resume to human resources and also register with Landrum agency.

Ms. Dubuisson also said that because of the flooding at Longhollow, the Belmont Arts Center will not be relocating in August, thanks to an extension granted by the Rev. John Powell. Neil Richards continues to remove his belongings from the parking lot at the Belmont Building. Four tenants continue at the Belmont Bldg., but roof repair is a major concern before additional use can be allowed. All proposals that fit the mission of the building are being explored.

Florida is celebrating Viva Florida 500, a commemoration of Florida's five centuries of diverse cultural history to be held throughout 2013. Every ethnic neighborhood is encouraged to participate. Ms. Dubuisson and Ann Hill continue to research the heritage and culture of Belmont-DeVilliers.

Ms. Dubuisson reported that The Palafox Market is in the top 5 in a national open market contest. She concluded her report with a listing of meetings scheduled for the next two weeks.

Ms. Curry announced the Ella L. Jordan House benefit scheduled for 6 pm on Aug. 25 at Washington High School and featuring Al Martin. Tickets are $25 each. Since 1931 the house at 423 N. “C” St. has been the headquarters of the Pensacola Federation of Colored Women's Clubs, an organization founded by Ms. Jordan. The funds will be used to restore the house, which was heavily damaged by Hurricane Ivan.

Diane Mack gave an update on the Pensacola Community Initiatives Partnership (PCIP) grants, with about $50,000 available this fall. Ms. Curry suggested we establish a cleanup project as part of our required match for our grant.

Ms. Mack said she read the suggestions in the final report of disparity study submitted to City Council, including aspirational goals, procurement categories, etc. It was pretty much agreed that the $250,000 spent on the report was a waste of time and money and that it did not show the real issues the minority community is faced with.

Ms. Mack reminded everyone that early voting starts Saturday, Aug. 4 and that sample ballots are available online and can be printed. She passed out a sample ballot. One citizen mentioned that she makes sure all her GED students get registered.

Michael Conrad from the Belmont Arts Center thanked everyone for their support in the move to Longhollow. He said Rev. John Powell has been generous in letting them extend their time at the Belmont Building. He has hopes of establishing a satellite location in Belmont-DeVilliers.

Mr. Conrad said the art center will return to its original name as the First City Arts Center and will announce this change in September. He asks that we redirect patrons who come looking for the arts group to the new center. He said that Rev. Powell has agreed not to let any other entities be named the Belmont Arts Center.

Ms. Dubuisson noted that the library is almost completed and should open on Oct. 30. The Molino branch should be finished two months ahead of schedule.

Vivian Lamont said she will be performing at 2 pm on Thursday at the East Gregory Street hall.

Dr. Alexa Canady-Davis said $2,598 remains in our treasury.

Neil Richards discussed the Belmont-DeVilliers Land Use Map, RNC zoning which allows businesses on the first floor and residences above them. He said he would like to make a strong push for continued acceptance of the 2003-04 Belmont-DeVilliers plan.

Dr. Canady-Davis said we must demand and support that we address the disparity issue and the previous plan for Belmont-DeVilliers. She moved to have Mr. Richards be the go-to person in the fight and to voice support for the plan that is in place. Rosemary Kirkland and Ms. Mack seconded this, and the motion carried unanimously.

Eleanor Johnson read Rev. Powell’s thank you note on the association’s contribution.
Ms. Curry adjourned the meeting at 6:39 pm.


 ==========

Belmont-DeVilliers Neighborhood Association
Brian Hooper, Chairman
Mayor’s Urban Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Office of the Mayor
180 Governmental Center
P.O. Box 12910
Pensacola, FL 32521
8/2/2012
Dear Mr. Hooper,
At our August 1, 2012, meeting, the Belmont-DeVilliers Neighborhood Association authorized Neil Richards as our representative to the Mayor’s Urban Redevelopment Advisory Committee. We request that you allow Mr. Richards to speak on our behalf at the meeting scheduled for Friday, Aug. 3. What he plans to do is reassert the Belmont-DeVilliers full support of the 2003-04 Belmont-DeVilliers Land Use Plan that is posted on the city’s website at http://www.cityofpensacola.com/sites/cityofpensacola.com /files/Belmont-DeVilliers%20Land%20Use%20Plan%202004.pdf
At our meeting, we wholeheartedly endorsed the R-NC zoning, the Concept B Multiple Centers – Mixed Use Priority, and the establishment of a Belmont-DeVilliers Community Center within the 501(c)3 Belmont Building at the corner of Belmont and DeVilliers streets. The following will more fully explain these concepts:
On Page 27 of this document, under the Land Use Concept Highlights, it defines what we view as a triangle that serves as the anchor points of the neighborhood, including the Main Library, the Pensacola State College building on Garden and the Belmont Building on the northeast corner of Belmont and DeVilliers streets. The section states in part:
The proposed Land Use concepts denote key principles for the redevelopment of the Belmont/ DeVilliers neighborhood.  The following key principles directed the development of these concepts.
· Neighborhoods are considered the basic unit in city and urban planning.  In order to create a
sustainable neighborhood, a healthy balance of appropriate residential, nonresidential,
activity centers and institutional uses is critical.
· Neighborhood Cultural Center (N-CC) is defined as a neighborhood serving a mixed-use
district by providing a pedestrian scale environment reflecting the rich culture and heritage of the Belmont/DeVilliers community.  This district is located in the historic heart of the
community, i.e. at the intersection of Belmont and DeVilliers Streets.  Additional or
secondary centers may be considered at the Pensacola Junior College and the public
library.
We are very pleased with the progress we have made on this plan. The Main Library will be state-of-the-art and a focal point for the whole city. PSC and the Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce have partnered to establish the Gulf Coast Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, a business incubator program at the corner of Garden and DeVilliers streets.
The neighborhood would now like to turn its focus on creating a vibrant Neighborhood Community Center housed in Truth for Youth’s Belmont Building. As you know, Belmont-DeVilliers is one of the few established neighborhoods in this city that does not have a Parks and Recreation-run community center. We do not need a $300 million building to bring our center into being. It already exists. All we need at present is to stabilize the building we have, which would begin with a new roof. 
Regarding the balance mentioned in the key principles in the 2003-04 document, we would like to point out a concept known as “Multiple Centers – Mixed Use Priority” that was presented to the city planners by Herbert-Halback, Inc. (HHI) and approved by our neighborhood after a number of well-attended public workshops and neighborhood discussions.
On Page 31, there is an illustration of this concept (Concept B) that was adopted by the neighborhood in 2003-04 and unanimously re-adopted last night at our meeting:
On Page 32, the document confirms our stated preference for Concept B:
Based on the feedback received at the 2nd Public Workshop, Concept B, (Multiple Centers-Mixed Use Priority) was the preferred concept.  Modifications were made to Concept B based on the feedback received at the public workshop and are reflected in the Proposed Future Land Use Map, the prime objective of this project.
Participants at the 2nd Public Workshop generally agreed with the idea of developing 3 new land use designations unique to the Belmont/DeVilliers neighborhood as a tool to redevelop the neighborhood. 
Pivotal to implementing Concept B is what is referred to in this document as R-NC zoning. On page 11, there is a definition of the Residential-Neighborhood Commercial zoning in Belmont-DeVilliers at that time:
R-NC Residential Neighborhood Commercial (Predominant zoning in the neighborhood).  Everything in R-2 plus the following, with no outside storage or work permitted except as provided herein:
· Residential design manufactured homes
· Manufactured home parks
· Retail food and drug store (including liquor package store)
· Personal service shops
· Clothing and fabric stores
· Home furnishings, hardware and appliance stores
· Specialty shops
· Banks
· Bakeries, whose products are sold at retail and only on the premises
· Pawn shops and secondhand stores
· Floral shops
· Health clubs, spas, and exercise centers
· Martial arts studios
· Laundromats and dry cleaners using combustible or flammable liquids of solvents with a flash point of one hundred ninety (190) degrees Fahrenheit or greater
· Laundry and dry cleaning pick-up stations
· Outdoor sales of trees, shrubs, plants and related landscaping materials as an accessory to indoor retail sales uses permitted by this paragraph, provided that the area is enclosed
within a fence attached to the rear or side of the main building, and provided that the outdoor area does not exceed twenty (20) percent of the total area of the main building
· Restaurants
· Studios
· Mortuary and funeral parlors
· Appliance repair shops
· Gasoline and service stations with up to three (3) wreckers. Minor repair work not involving major motor or drive train repairs, straightening of body parts, painting, welding or other major mechanical and body work involving noise, glare, fumes, or smoke is permitted within  a building
We thank you for listening to us and urge you to include this information in your final report.
  

Cordially,
Dolores Curry, President
Belmont-DeVilliers Neighborhood Association


Monday, May 7, 2012

MINUTES OF THE MAY 2, 2012 MEETING OF THE BELMONT-DEVILLIERS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION


No one has claimed a pair of silver glasses left at the April meeting.
Dolores Curry still has them.

BELMONT-DEVILLIERS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
MINUTES OF THE MAY 2, 2012 MEETING

The meeting was opened at 5:30 p.m. by President Dolores Curry. Attending were: Dolores Curry, Vivian Lamont, Dottie Dubuisson, Rosemary Kirkland, Rev. Carl Reeves, Pattie Krakowski, Ann Hill, Robin Reshard, Sheikh Sahe el din, the Sheldon Powell, Dr. Alexa Canady-Davis, Brad Nihls, Diane Mack, Rose George, Jewel Cannada-Wynn, Beverly Perry, Neil Richards and Rose McPherson. Guests included Columbus and Linda Thompson and Ryan Winterberg-Lipp, administrator of the Pensacola Community Redevelopment Agency. Minutes were read and approved.

Rev. Carl Reeves answered questions from members, noting that it is OK for citizens to share photos of offenders but that the police cannot do this. He said the removal of Waterfront Mission to Herman St. will alleviate some of the problems arising from the transient population.

Guest Linda Thompson invited everyone to the 9th annual free Juneteenth festival on June 16 from noon to 5 pm at Maritime Park. Contact talindas@aol.com for more info.

Ryan Winterberg-Lipp reminded everyone of the city’s project to make both Spring and Baylen two-way streets.  She said the plan had been held up by the state Department of Transportation, but that bids for this project would be going out the week of May 7. There will also be two public hearings on this project. It should be before City Council at the end of June.

Brad Nihls said he recently moved here from Chicago with his wife and daughter.

Sheldon Powell introduced himself as the son of the Rev. John Powell.

Vivian Lamont said the Belmont Youth Band will be playing at Juneteenth, Cordova Mall, a cerebral palsy fundraiser and at the Maritime Park grand opening.

Neil Richards invited everyone to the special Mother’s Day version of Hot Glass Cold Beer event on Friday at the Belmont Building.

Sheikh Aziz introduced his brother Darrell of the Nation of Islam.

Dolores Curry reminded everyone of the Legion Field discussion at 6:30 pm at Sanders Beach.

Dottie Dubuisson discussed a baseball history lecture she attended. She reported that Jessica Bell is the new special projects coordinator of the city’s Office of Sustainability. (The former coordinator Cindy Williams recently resigned.)
Ms. Dubuisson said an Apple-oriented computer store is opening on Palafox St. She also gave a brief summary of several meetings she has attended. She brought in a sample card for the City Council public speakers forum and explained the process that allows citizens to speak on any topic.

She also said that the city’s Code Enforcement is moving aggressively through the city and that residents need to address any citation or face steep accruing fines.

Diane Mack said the City is now enforcing a long-standing ordinance that residents are responsible for maintaining the right-of-way adjacent to their homes as she learned from a friend who lives at A and Chase Street.

Jewel Cannada-Wynn said she has gotten the required number of petitions to be a candidate for County Commissioner for District 3.

Dr. Alexa Canada-Davis said the County Commissioners have said they will not close the libraries, but reminded everyone there is likely to be two or three different commissioners in office in the fall, so they may not be held to that pledge.

Dr. Canada-Davis said the library board has tabled long-term planning for now, but two goals are a safe crossing over Cervantes for children coming from the north and protecting the size of the 4,800 square feet design for the new Legion Field library.

There was some discussion about the status of the Belmont-DeVilliers website, but no decisions were made.

Ms. Curry and Eddie Todd will follow through on the banners to be purchased with the $500 donation of Ronald Townsend.

It was moved and approved to send a potted plant as congratulations to Rishy Studer on the opening of her new shop on Palafox.

Robin Reshard obtained permission from the group to film our next meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:20 pm, and all enjoyed a delectable feast courtesy of Sheikh Aziz and Food for the Soul’s Joyce James and Gilbertina Anderson. The new catering and event planning service is housed at the DeVilliers CafĂ© across the street. They brought an array of finger sandwiches, veggie and fruit plates, homemade soup and desserts. Their specialty is wedding cakes, pies, tarts, homemade breads, cobblers and other baked items. You can reach them at 850-449-4297, 281-7212 or ladyjames35@yahoo.com.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

African American students missing out on scholarships


AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENTS ARE NOT APPLYING  !
Even if you do not have a college-aged child at home, please share this with someone who does, pass this scholarship information on to anyone and everyone that comes to mind. Though there are a number of companies and organizations that have donated monies for scholarships use to African Americans, a great deal of the money is being returned because of a lack of interest. No one is going to knock on our doors and ask if we can use a scholarship. Take the initiative to get your children involved. There is no need for money to be returned to donating companies because we fail to apply for it. Please pass this information on to family members, nieces, nephews, friends with children etc. We must get the word out that money is available. If you are a college student or getting ready to become one , you probably already know how useful additional money can be. Our youth really could use these scholarships. Thanks! (If clicking on the link doesn't work, copy and paste the URL in your web browser.)
1) BELL LABS FELLOWSHIPS FOR UNDER REPRESENTED MINORITIES
2) Student Inventors Scholarships
3) Student Video Scholarships
4) Coca-Cola Two Year College Scholarships
5) Holocaust Remembrance Scholarships
6) Ayn Rand Essay Scholarships
7) Brand Essay Competition
8) Gates Millennium Scholarships (major)
9) Xerox Scholarships for Students
10) Sports Scholarships and Internships
11) National Assoc. of Black Journalists Scholarships (NABJ)
12) Saul T. Wilson Scholarships (Veterinary)
13) Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund
14) FinAid: The Smart Students Guide to Financial Aid Scholarships
15) Presidential Freedom Scholarships
16) Microsoft Scholarship Program
http://www.microsoft.com/college/scholarships/minority.asp
17) WiredScholar Free Scholarship Search
18) Hope Scholarships &Lifetime Credits
19) William Randolph Hearst Endowed Scholarship for Minority Students
20) Multiple List of Minority Scholarships
21) Guaranteed Scholarships
22) BOEING scholarships (soma e HBCU connects)
23) Easley National Scholarship Program
24) Maryland Artists Scholarships
26) Jacki Tuckfield Memorial Graduate Business Scholarship (for AA students in South Florida)
27) Historically Black College & University Scholarships
28) Actuarial Scholarships for Minority Students
29) International Students Scholarships & Aid Help
30) College Board Scholarship Search
31) Burger King Scholarship Program
32) Siemens Westinghouse Competition
33) GE and LuLac Scholarship Funds
34) CollegeNet's Scholarship Database
35) Union Sponsored Scholarships and Aid
36) Federal Scholarships & Aid Gateways 25 Scholarship Gateways from Black Excel
37) Scholarship &Financial Aid Help
38) Scholarship Links (Ed Finance Group)
39) FAFSA On The Web (Your Key Aid Form &Info)
40) Aid &Resources For Re-Entry Students
41) Scholarships and Fellowships
42) Scholarships for Study in Paralegal Studies
43) HBCU Packard Sit Abroad Scholarships (for students around the world)
44) Scholarship and Fellowship Opportunities
45) INROADS internships
46) ACT-SO EUR Olympics of the Mind "A Scholarships
47) Black Alliance for Educational Options Scholarships
48) ScienceNet Scholarship Listing
49) Graduate Fellowships For Minorities Nationwide
50) RHODES SCHOLARSHIPS AT OXFORD
51) The Roothbert Scholarship Fund


Sunday, April 15, 2012

BELMONT-DEVILLIERS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES OF THE APRIL 4, 2012 MEETING

The meeting was opened at 5:30 p.m. by President Dolores Curry. Attending were: Dolores Curry, Vivian Lamont, Dottie Dubuisson, Rosemary Kirkland, Rev. Carl Reeves, Pattie Krakowski, Ann Hill, Eddie Todd, Robin Reshard, Jim Myatt,  Abdekunle Karriem, Eleanor Johnson, Danny Lewis, the Rev. John H. Powell, Dr. Alexa Canady-Davis, Brad Nihls, Tony McCray, Burnett Williamson and Geraldine Vaurigaud. Guests included City Councilman Brian Spencer, at-large City Council candidate Charles Bare, School Board Superintendent candidate Claudia Brown-Curry, Christian Wagley of the Mayor’s Urban Redevelopment Advisory Committee, Kim Kimbrough of the Downtown Improvement Board and Michael Conrad from the Belmont Arts Center. Minutes were read and approved.

Rev. Carl Reeves reported on the Police Academy and extended an offer for another neighborhood orientation on the police surveillance cameras. There was a discussion about the 4-way stop sign at A and Government Sts. With the opening of the park, police have increased their patrolling and monitoring of speed limits.

Vivian Lamont introduced Michael Conrad, president of the Belmont Arts Center, and he discussed the proposed relocation of the arts center to Longhollow, where the arts board feels there would be more autonomy over the building they use. The proposal should be presented to City Council in the next few weeks. Ms. Lamont is raising money for the Belmont Youth Band through the sale of tickets to the annual Belk Charity Sale on Saturday, April 21 from 6 to 10 am.

Eddie Todd said this month’s proposed walk along the DeVilliers corridor with Councilman Brian Spencer was cancelled, and he turned the floor over to Mr. Spencer, who said he hoped to have a workshop on the topic. He also addressed the letter sent by the association on the topic of gentrification. He agreed with the points made in the letter, stating “you can never resurrect what you remove” and if the historic nature is not preserved, “bit by bit the texture of the neighborhood is gone.” He suggested documentary maker Robin Reshard would draw up a list of cherished building in Belmont-DeVilliers. He offered a personal gift of $500 to support the goals of the association and said that the Mayor’s Urban Redevelopment Advisory Committee would hold a separate meeting to address the Belmont-DeVilliers and Tanyard districts at which all interested parties could be heard.

Claudia Brown-Curry introduced herself to the members, narrating her diverse background in banking, probation and parole, guidance counseling and earning an Ed.S. degree at UWF,  She discussed the high school dropout rate among African Americans in Escambia County and blamed this on insufficient resources, programs and vocation tracks. She plans to implement some of these things if elected as school superintendent.

Tony McCray discussed the city’s disparity report due in the next couple of months and wants to make sure any recommendations are implemented. He is working to strengthen the Gulf Coast African American Chamber of Commerce and is looking for a museum location for historic preservation.

Dottie Dubuisson talked about upcoming meetings, including the Mayor’s URAC and City Council and Planning Board meetings. She discussed presentations on housing by the Downtown Improvement Board and heritage tourism by UWF’s Matt Altier.

Rev. John Powell discussed the children’s Easter celebration sponsored each year by Truth for Youth.

Christian Wagley gave an overview of the 4-month mission of the 7-member Mayor’s Urban Redevelopment Advisory Committee. He described the members’ task as seeking creative ways to raise money to cover projects that can be realistically achieved in the next 3-5 years. Geraldine Vaurigaud noted that Mr. Wagley walks the talk in that he rides a bike, promotes healthy living, growing food and has worked as produce manager at Ever’man’s. Mr. McCray said he and Mr. Wagley both participated in last year’s Clean Economy Roadshow.

Dr. Alexa Canady-Davis collected membership dues and explained the imminent loss of Escambia County funding facing the West Florida Library System. That amounts to about 70% of the library’s budget. The loss would necessitate the closing of the Century and Southwest branches, plus consolidating other branches while curtailing service and book purchases. To offset this loss is a proposal of a Municipal Service Taxing Unit (MSTU) of 0.35 mills, which would be added to the ad valorem tax bills of Escambia County properties outside City of Pensacola limits. She urged everyone to attend the County Commissioners meeting at 9 am on Thursday, April 12 at 221 Palafox Place. Library supporters are asked to wear red. It was moved, seconded and approved to write a draft letter to commissioners urging them to find a solution to this funding issue.

Geraldine Vaurigaud gave an update on her community outreach efforts and discussed the Brain Gym movement-based children’s learning program (see braingym.org).

Charles Bare explained that Lara McKnight had withdrawn her candidacy for the council at-large seat currently filled by Sam Hall, and that he is now running for this seat. He said he needs 1,299 petition signatures by May 12 to qualify to run.

Four persons will be sponsored for the July 12-14 Florida Neighborhood Conference, hosted for the first time by the City of Pensacola. Attending will be Dolores Curry, Ann Hill, Eleanor Johnson and Dottie Dubuisson. Tony McCray also plans to attend.

Mr. Todd discussed the opening of the Maritime Park and stadium. He was given an appreciative round of applause for his service to the park development.

It was noted that the Palafox Market’s new season begins May 1.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 pm, and all enjoyed a delicious meal courtesy of Sheikh Aziz and the sisters of Muhammad’s Mosque #98.

Monday, March 12, 2012

MINUTES OF THE MARCH 7, 2012 MEETING

BELMONT-DEVILLIERS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
MINUTES OF THE MARCH 7, 2012 MEETING

The meeting was opened at 5:30 p.m. by President Dolores Curry. Attending were: Dolores Curry, Vivian Lamont, Dottie Dubuisson, Rosemary Kirkland, Rev. Carl Reeves, Rose George, Pattie Krakowski, Ann Hill, Eddie Todd, Robin Reshard, Neil Richards, Jim Myatt, Beverly Perry, Kareem Safe el-din, Marlin Mueller, Gloria G. Horning, George Hawthorne, Andrew Rothfeder, Heather Greer and Eleanor Johnson. Guests included at-large City Council candidate Lara McKnight. Minutes were read and approved.

Rev. Carl Reeves, our liaison with the Police Dept., was congratulated on his reappointment by Gov. Rick Scott to the Florida Faith-Based and Community-Based Advisory Council. Rev. Reeves is pastor of the Greater Mount Lily Missionary Baptist Church in Pensacola. He noted that there is a growing trend toward home invasions and car thefts and urged everyone to make sure their doors are locked and their house secured. He said most of these break-ins are by people who live in the neighborhood. He encouraged people to dial the new 311 citizen support line for non-police non-emergencies. You can use this number to report potholes and broken sidewalks, burned out streetlights, damaged park equipment and to ask general questions relating to city services. The website is at www.pensacola311.com .

Lara McKnight, who is running for the at-large seat reportedly being vacated by Councilman Sam Hall, is president of the Scenic Heights Neighborhood Association and immediate past president of the Council of Neighborhood Association Presidents of Pensacola, resigning when she chose to run for public office. She noted that the new association has already had some success, including fending off some East Side zoning that a member group opposed. She said her civic involvement began as an angry letter writer, and now she is seeking a seat on City Council because she is concerned that citizens are not always heard at the governmental level. She hopes to add a voice of common sense to the equation.

Vivian Lamont gave an account of the Belmont Youth Band’s recent performances and academic achievements. Ceresa Elliott will be singing the National Anthem at the Blue Wahoos game on Sunday, April 15 at 3:30 pm at the Maritime Park. Graham Louisell and Ramel Price will be playing violin duets, etc. on April 2 at 5:30 pm at the ARC Gateway, 10th Ave. off Fairfield. Students will also perform at UWF’s Festival on the Green at 10 a.m. March 31 and later at Bayview Park on the pier at 6 pm. They will also appear at this year’s Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival. Ms. Lamont will again star in the Senior Follies at Pensacola State College. Tickets are $12 each for the shows at 7 pm March 16 and 2 pm on March 17-18.

Dottie Dubuisson gave a brief summary of the recent meetings she has attended, including those of the Downtown Improvement Board and its associated committees, Code Enforcement hearings, the reinstated Environmental Advisory Board and the mayor’s new Urban Redevelopment Advisory Committee.

The mayor’s new committee will meet every other Friday for four months (the next one being March 9) from 9:30 to 11 am. The meetings are open to the public and are of great importance to members because they deal with the urban core, including our neighborhood. Each meeting brings in speakers who have a perceived stake in Pensacola’s future. Dolores Curry has been invited by the committee chair Brian Hooper to address the views of the Belmont-DeVilliers neighborhood.

Members expressed concern that some city officials are suggesting that the city merge and rename some of the downtown districts and change city coding to reflect the new urbanism belief that form is more important than function. While the mayor’s committee has not endorsed this idea that how a building is used is second to how it looks (called a form-based code), some of the key players on the committee want Pensacola to adopt what has worked for Seaside resort near Destin.

Eddie Todd noted that Councilman Brian Spencer wanted to address our group regarding some of the ideas he has for urban redevelopment. We are also still trying to work out a Saturday in late March where we can all walk the DeVilliers corridor and develop priorities on how to improve it. Members expressed concern about the Philadelphia Green / Vacant Land Management presentation Councilman Spencer gave to the City Council. Information regarding this program on the Internet indicates Philadelphia relies on eminent domain to take control of some of the vacant spaces, and no one at the meeting seemed ready to endorse this option.

Ms. Dubuisson discussed a draft plan the Downtown Improvement Board housing committee is working on that might avoid some of these pitfalls in finding ways to provide infill housing. She also noted that the city’s Code Enforcement is aggressively enforcing city ordinances and that homes are being found in violation for maintenance and lack of city sanitation services.

As a result of this group discussion, it was moved by George Hawthorne and seconded by Rosemary Kirkland that we write a formal letter to let the City Council and the Mayor know that we oppose gentrification of our neighborhood in any planning and that we continue to support the original Belmont-DeVilliers mixed-use development plan that was created during neighborhood hearings. The letter will emphasize that we want to protect existing residents, the heirs of property owners, the disabled and the elderly.

We have received permission from the artist to use a musician image for our logo, branding and our neighborhood sign, but the details have not been finalized.

A thank you letter was sent to Councilman Ron Townsend (with a copy to the mayor) for the $500 check to help defray the cost of putting up outdoor banners. We have not heard back from our request to Councilman Spencer. The Rev. John Powell sent a $300 check from the Truth for Youth as a donation from the black history festival. Elvin Jones contributed the $61.25 we owe for taxes to the IRS.

Robin Reshard is looking for a 501(c) 3 to work with her as a fiscal agent regarding donations offered to underwrite her Belmont DeVilliers documentary. She expects the cost of the 90- to 120-munute production to be about $1,000 per filmed minute. She has a professional business plan for such a partnership.

Dr. Gloria Horning is now working with Pathways for Change. That group’s new center at 2050 West Blount will have an open house week beginning April 2. Pathways for Change is a faith-based nonprofit with a mission of changing lives, reducing crime and building futures.

Hot Glass, Cold brew will be back on Friday, March 23. In addition to live glassblowing, pottery and glass bead demonstrations - it's also member appreciation night with surprises for new and renewing members. Enjoy the Belmont’s unique ambiance and talents and partake of some complimentary pizza and beer. Live music will also be provided.

Geraldine Vaurigaud invited everyone to the North Hill Neighborhood Association meeting on Monday (March 12) at 6:30 pm at the new Open Books in Long Hollow Community Center. She said the relocation of the Belmont Arts Center to Long Hollow will be discussed at this meeting.

Ms. Curry asked if anyone would like to attend the Neighborhood Leadership Training classes that will be offered on Tuesday evenings. Please call her if you want to join these highly rated excursions into the depth of city government.

Mr. Hawthorne noted that Paradise Gardens is working to correct its zoning issues and that he expects to make a major announcement soon.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 pm.