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COSAC Foundation | PO Box 292-577 Davie, FL 33329 | 954-924-3571

WASHINGTON, DC – Hate Crimes against the Homeless: Violence Hidden in Plain View is an an-nual factual accounting of bias motivated crimes against un-housed individuals in the order of their occurrence. It is also a report that, in its entirety, illustrates the deadly consequences of decades of failed housing policies and social reforms.Over the past three decades, Americans have in-

vested tens of billions of dollars to prevent, reduce and end homelessness. In spite of these efforts and investments, homelessness continues to worsen. Over time, as a nation, we are experiencing the natural and growing sense of “compassion fatigue” toward the social ill of homelessness. Unfortu-nately, the frustration that Americans are feeling to-ward homelessness is being misplaced toward the un-housed, rather than the systems that have failed both the housed and the homeless. The misdirec-tion of feelings resulting from compassion fatigue has resulted in the criminalization of homelessness nationwide, the withdrawal of critically needed investments in affordable housing and the rise in crimes of hate against the homeless.In the parable of the Good Samaritan, a young

Jewish man is beaten and robbed on a well-traveled and notoriously dangerous road from Jerusalem to Jericho. The story was told to observant Jews, in a time when mutual hatred existed between Jews and Samaritans. As the victim lay half dead by the side of the road, his religious identity unknown, a priest averts his eyes and passes without stopping. Shortly after, a Levite crosses the road to avoid the bloodied man. Lastly, a Samaritan stops and has

“ I wanted to know what it feltlike to kill a human. ”

-Eric Francis Sandefur,Jacksonville, Florida

Violence Hidden in Plain View (NCH Report)

(Continued on pg 4)

Donald BrownA Miami Dolphin could afford to spend Valentine’s Day almost any-

where in the world. But four players, some of their wives of the Miami Dolphin Women’s Organization, and their team mascot, T.D., chose to celebrate part of their Valentine’s Day here at the shelter.“The shelter here, I think, is a new thing,” said Katie Fields, an MDWO

member and wife of Brandon Fields.“We try to get out as much as we can and [help.] The Miami Dolphin organi-

zation gives us the opportunities to do [this], but it’s up to us to actually show up, help out, and give what we can to the community,” said Brandon Fields. Mr. Fields was joined by fellow-players John Denney, Nate Garner, and Jake Long. Each great player traded-in their rough football role for a gentler, kinder role in a labor of love.Whether on the field or in the kitchen, one player kept the same role:

T.D. As the guests streamed into the cafeteria they were greeted by the gregarious T.D. who kept the atmosphere light and humorous. T.D. quickly warmed up to the shelter’s guests by way of his charm, hugs, and high-fives. T.D. even sat down to enjoy silent pantomimic conversa-tions with some of the guests.One fan that did not need any warming up was COSAC Foundation

staff member, Christine “C.J.” Jordan.“It’s very exciting to see the Miami Dolphins here! Not just for me,

their number one fan, but for everybody in the facility and the home-less shelter. I think some of the shelter guests were very excited to meet some of their idols. As you can see we have a bunch of them wearing their Dolphin colors,” said Jordan.After everyone was served their meals, members of MDWO handed

out beautiful roses to the guests, as well as Valentine’s Day chocolates.It was an afternoon to remember. After all, it’s not every day that Cupid

has to stand on the sidelines while a Dolphin score’s a touchdown on Valentine’s Day!

Miami Dolphin Players Score a Touchdown at COSAC on Valentine’s Day!

In Loving Memory of Angela J. Fante

“Mimi” June 4, 1917 June 12, 2010

1st Continental MortgageAdam StalerAddias EugeneAdriana FernandezAdriana N. Quila†Adrienne and Mike Al & Barbara LiebmannAl and AnnieAlbert J. Hamilton Ph DAlbert J. Taragowski Alex FakeAlfred C. Scuderi Jr.Alice Ford and Melvin MawHinneyAllen YancyAmanda ReynoldsAmber RowanAmerican Express Charitable FundAmparo L. KoreyAmy CuricAndre JohnsonAndre and Heguette Bernier StachewitschAndrea BrownAndrew N. DalyAndrew & Lynn LassmanAngeline MaranoAnn and Jean TapiaAnn M. HamiltonAnn-Marie WhiteAnna Marye LevierAnne-Marie DecanalAnne McCuddenAnn RitchieAnthony GalloAnthony RalphAnthony Rhodes Antione CollinsAntonieta G. BohillAnzalone Santa & VincenzoArmando ReyesArnold ReemerAtkinson and BartleyAudrey PeretsAwake Inc.Barbara DesantoBarbara RobinsonBarbara Strong Baumann FamilyBeatriz C PerezBenjamin SanchezBeth Farans Bill and Priscilla La GasseBob HallBobby NealBonita L AkinjiBoykeBrad and Krystal KellyBrian Herrmann & Aura HerrmannBruce WethersoonC. YoungbloodC.R. Gallagher Calvary Chapel of DoralCamille MessamCarl L MillerCarlo HarrisonCarmen VanScoyCarol LocketteCarol MercerCarol MurrayCarolyn and FamilyCasandra ThomasCathy and KidsCharlene Bugnacki & Paul BugnackiCharles J. YoungmanCharles K. WilsonChris SanchezChristine M WilsonChristine McAuliffeChuenren Tsai Clark RogersClaudia GeorgeClaudia K. Tapolow†††Collectron of AtlantaComet Couriev† †Connie & Ginger MurphyConstance LessoffConstance M FastCorrina Frank-SanchezCorinne JamesCovenant of Goddess, Elibet HansonCrime WatchCynthia Ann Guardia & Paulo Emilio GuardiaDale GavinDalal Hammoud AlmeidaDallan Michele King

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For just $15 a month you can keep a homeless family off the

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Mail check to: COSAC FoundationP.O. Box 292-577 Davie, FL 33329

Please include on memowhat name should appear in paper.

Friends of the HomelessNew!!! Sign up online:

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In Loving Memory of Rosa Esperanza Manrique Pino

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Our Homeless Voice readers:

Homeless Voice Newspaper StaffPublisher

Sean CononieEditor in Chief

Mark TargettExecutive Editor

Sara TargettPhotos

Lois Cross

Contributing Editors Margo PoulsonJamie Kisner

www.HomelessVoice.org/contact

Donate Online www.homelessvoice.org/donate

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* Robert Tansey* Carmen Cononie* Mary Summers* Cassandra Wilson* Charlene Duarte* Rusty Columbo* Devon Bailey & Family* Maria Dragon* Vemonda Lane & Family* Charlie* Mr. Mike* Tiffany* Dvora* Ed Giampietro* Kristan David Perez* Tommy & Joe * Geralyn* Little Ryan* Earnest Bowens & Family* Ed & Ruth* Rudy* Lisa* John McLean

Cathy’s Prayer ListTo add a name please

call 954-410-6275, no monetary donations needed

WORK FROM HOMEEARN COMMISSION

MAKE YOUR OWN HOURSRECEIVE RESIDUAL INCOME

The Homeless Voice is expanding and needs to sell ads! If you have sales experience and are

ready to be your own boss, call today!954-924-3571

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855-410-6275

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Please help feed our COLD guests!

Please Donate Gift Cards from

THE HomE DEpoT or LowesCall 855-410-6275

We are still looking to raise lots of funds so we can ex-pand. We bought some new properties and we hope to be able to remodel them and make them part of our hous-ing units. We still are try-ing to raise around $450,000 in the year 2012. This goal is outside of what we have to raise selling newspapers. Our budget normally is around a million dollars a year for about 14 programs, agencies, or projects. This $450,000 is for a plan of expansions so we can add more homeless beds for individuals at this time when the economy is really bad. We took our other campaigns and combined them to a much more workable plan. We should be getting all these beds opened up very soon. We can figure the fol-lowing: If we had 45,000 of our loyal people who buy our paper send in

their check for $10 we would reach our goal. If we had 18,000 of our loyal people who buy our paper send in

their check for $25 we would reach our goal.If we had 9,000 of our loyal people who buy our paper send in their

check for $50 we would reach our goal. If we had 4,500 of our loyal people who buy our paper send in their

check for $100 we would reach our goal. If we had 900 of our loyal people who buy our paper send in their

check for $500 we would reach our goal. If we had 450 of our loyal people who buy our paper send in their

check for $1,000 we would reach our goal. Yes, I know some of these amounts are hard for the everyday cit-

izen to send in, however you can do little projects, parties, car washes, go to your church, ask people at the office to give a small amount and then when you are done, send in their proceeds and as a team we will be able to open up the beds our community needs. I personally thank each and every one of you who have helped pay for the seven buildings we now have. Yes about 15 years ago, we started and look at us all now. Together as a team and that includes you the person who has bought our paper and with the help of Jesus we made a miracle happen. Thanks again.

Send in your checks to: COSAC HOMELESS ASSISTANCE CENTER P.O. Box 292-577 Davie, Florida 33329

855-410-6275

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pity on this unknown man. The Samaritan places the unconscious man upon his mule and carries him to a nearby inn. The Samaritan hands the innkeeper some money and asks that the victim be cared for, with the assurance that any additional costs will be covered upon his return.Two centuries later, the conditions and circum-

stances of the story of the Good Samaritan are pres-ent before us daily: a homeless man is beaten half to death under a bridge with the word “BUM” spray painted on him; a woman is raped and ridiculed for not having a place to call home; and a young girl is bullied by her classmates when they discover that she’s homeless. Hate crimes occur when perpetra-tors target victims because of their perceived mem-bership in a certain group. But these crimes origi-nate long before they ever occur, from the choices we make as individuals, communities and as a na-tion. Hate crimes will end when we reject the choice of averting our eyes or crossing the street, accept the choice of helping those in need and provide future assurances that additional resources will be provided upon our return. -Neil J. Donovan: Execu-tive Director, National Coalition for the HomelessThe main objective of this report is to educate law-

makers, advocates, and the general public about the problem of hate crimes and violence against home-less people in order to instigate change and ensure protection of civil rights for everyone, regardless of their economic circumstances or housing status. As part of its mission, the National Coalition for the Homeless is committed to creating the systemic and attitudinal changes necessary to end homelessness. A major component of these changes must include the societal guarantee of safety and protection, as well as a commitment by lawmakers to combat the hate crimes and violent acts against people who ex-perience homelessness.

Violence Hidden in Plain View (NCH Report)(Continued from pg 1) LAKELAND, FLORIDA–April 17, 2010

Three teens, Cody Lee Osborne, fifteen, Shawn Casey Whit-ten, seventeen, and Shane Decatur, eighteen, have all been ar-rested for participating in the fatal beating of a homeless man. Fifty two- year old Joseph Ruba was brutally beaten by the teens after a verbal disagreement arose; he pulled a knife to attempt to protect himself when the teens reacted violently. His attempt to save his life was unsuccessful. No other mo-tives for the crime have been identified. There is no known prior relationship between the teens and the victim. Each teen was subsequently charged with second-degree murder. All pled guilty to lesser charges. Cody Osborne, sixteen, was sentenced to two years house arrest. Shawn Whitten, seventeen, received one-hundred-twenty days in jail with time served for seventy-two days. He was later sentenced to three years and ten months in prison for violating the terms of his punishment. The “main aggressor”, Christopher Decatur, nineteen, was sentenced to four years in a “youthful offender” facility and two years house arrest.BRONX, NEW YORK–Au-

gust 15, 2010Billy “Peanut” Murphy, forty-

seven, died after being severely beaten. He received injuries to his head, neck and ribs. Witnesses say the attack left him unrecog-nizable. The medical examiner’s office ruled his death a homicide, but weeks later changed the cause of death to “undetermined.” Many of his friends believe he was attacked by young adults who hang around the park where Murphy slept. He is remembered as a sweet and caring man who took care of a local church garden, and who had many friends.ORLANDO, FLORIDA–October 2, 2010Two suspects—Stephen Koon, twenty-three, and Brandon

James, forty-one—were arrested in connection to the death of Michael Hutto, forty-nine. Hutto, a local homeless man, was shot in the Paramore area of Orlando. After the shooting, wit-

nesses stated that the suspects fled the scene in a green Nissan Frontier. Police used eye witnesses’ accounts and surveillance footage to track down the suspects.DUNNELLON, FLORIDA–November 29, 2010James Theral “Dan” Carlton, sixty-four, has been

indicted for the murder of a Florida homeless man. Michael Wayne Nichols, forty-one, was shot and bur-ied in a secluded area behind an abandoned structure. Police say that Carlton lured Nichols into his house. Authorities captured Carlton in Caryville, Tennessee. From there, he was extradited back to Marion County, where he is currently in jail awaiting trial.Non-Lethal Case DescriptionsThe eighty-nine incidents that did not result in death

in 2010 include various types of violence and have been divided into the categories: The majority of the cases, eighty-seven percent, were incidents where the homeless individual was beaten with fists, bats,

boards, belts, or even chunks of cement. In 2010, of the homeless in-dividuals who survived their attack, three were raped and one was set on fire. Five percent of non-lethal attacks included shootings, and another four percent included ha-rassment and multimedia exploitation of homeless persons.J A C K S O N V I L L E

BEACH, FLORIDA–March 13, 2010Nicholas Highsmith,

twenty, was arrested for sexual assault of a homeless woman in the Jacksonville Beach area. She was re-ported to have suffered a severe beating during the assault. Investigators said that the woman, forty-five, was considered a nice person by fellow members of the homeless community. Highsmith went to the beach

“It was the most severehead trauma we have

ever seen.”-Doctors on Michael Dean

Doss’ Injuries

(Continued on pg 5)

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Homeless Voice vendor was shot with a

BB gun by a young man in a “nice car.”

He also reported that,

“the [Police Department] did not even

want to take a report.”

with a group of friends. There were three couples and Highsmith. The couples broke off and Highsmith was left alone, at which point he came into contact with the victim. Highsmith beat the victim and raped her. She spent months in a coma, nearly dying. Highsmith was later acquitted of rape due to lack of DNA evi-dence, but was convicted of battery and theft. The at-tack has provoked fear in the homeless community, and leaders of the local shelter Mission House warn that being alone in the area is unsafe. Shelter leaders speculate that exposure to attacks may be avoided if homeless people gain access to overnight shelter.DAVENPORT, FLORIDA–March 28, 2010Robert Hyers, a forty-six-year-old homeless man,

was shot in the lower back while he was standing at a bus stop. The incident occurred after he tried to dis-tance himself from two men who threatened to rob him. The suspect pointed a handgun out of the win-dow of a car and shot Hyers as he attempted to flee the scene. Hyers’ injuries were treated in the emergency room. Police have been unable to identify the perpe-trators, and are seeking out more information about the incident.HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA–July 2010Sean Cononie runs various homeless organizations

in South Florida, including one that releases a news-paper, the Homeless Voice, which homeless people sell. Cononie reported to the National Coalition for the Homeless that one of his vendors was shot with a BB gun by a young man in a “nice car.” He also reported that, “the [Police Department] did not even want to take a report.”ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA–January 6, 2010Police are searching for the individuals who have

been throwing acid-filled bottles at members of a local homeless encampment. Investigators have es-timated that approximately three plastic bottles with such acid contents have been flung at members of the homeless commu-nity. One of these bottles struck a forty-four-year-old homeless woman while she was sleeping under several blankets. The blankets protected her from injury, and the other members of the homeless community had, likewise, escaped injury. Police have found the plastic containers that the attackers had thrown, but have not been able to identify any suspects. The homeless community and refugee workers are outraged. The executive di-rector of a local charity was appalled by the act’s of cruelty, lamenting that people would desire to harm such already disadvantaged members of society. The members of this homeless community have been pelted with objects prior to this reported incident; the acid attacks indicate that violence against the area’s homeless population is escalating.CINCINNATI, OHIO–January 24, 2010Thirty-eight-year-old Michael Taylor has been ar-

rested for beating Robert Meehan, a fifty-six year- old homeless man, in the head and face with a glass bottle, causing him to fall into a coma and suffer brain damage. Three women witnessed the attack, which in-vestigators insist was triggered by an indefinable mo-tive. Police investigators have further concluded that

Meehan did not threaten Taylor’s well-being in any manner. No argument was known to take place before Taylor began to beat Meehan over the head. The injuries that Meehan sustained after the attack were near lethal. Advocates of the homeless community speculate that Meehan’s housing status may have motivated the attack and fear that if the city fails to take action to protect the community, more attacks will occur. The Cincin-nati government has tried to cooperate closely with the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless to implement a plan that would prevent attacks against the homeless community. Tay-

lor, also known as “Madness,” was sentenced to eighteen months in jail after pleading guilty to the aggregated assault.HUDSON, FLORIDA–March

3, 2010Forty-five-year-old Steven J.

Foster of 9405 Gray Fox Lane, Port Richey Florida was charged with second-degree attempted murder after he stomped upon forty-eight-year-old David J. Scrivani, a local homeless man, and proceeded to stab him mul-tiple times. The attack occurred in a wooded homeless encampment.

A witness was able to rescue Scrivani from the attack by alert-ing the police. Scrivani, however, had already suffered head trauma and multiple stab wounds.LAUDERHILL, FLORIDA–May 30, 2010Roberto Rodriguez, thirty, and Neil Wilson, twenty-five, beat

and robbed a sixty-eight-year-old homeless man. The victim was kicked in the head multiple times and had his wallet stolen. The attack left the victim in critical condition. Both suspects are being held without bond on attempted murder charges in the Broward County jail.KEY WEST, FLORIDA–August 29, 2010A fifty-five-year-old homeless man was severely beaten and

was left bloody from a cut on his forehead. Police are looking for a male suspect. The victim said that he was talking to the suspect when he was struck with a stick. The attack was wit-nessed by a bouncer who was nearby. The police were contact-ed. The bouncer chased the suspect when the suspect threat-ened him with the knife. This case is still under investigation.

KEY WEST, FLORIDA–September 17, 2010Francisco Burrows, a homeless man, was riding

down the street on his bicycle when a man in a silver Chevrolet van slowed down and yelled, “Do you have a problem?” to him. The van stopped and the man exited with a machete and began to wave it around. He slashed the tire of Burrows’ bike. Burrows tried to run away, but the man pursued him and threw a large piece of loose blacktop pavement at him. The man then got back in his van, rode over Burrows’ bike and drove away. The suspect is unknown.DETROIT, MICHIGAN–October 6, 2010Forty-two-year-old Charles Duncan, a homeless

man, was tied up and beaten with a baseball bat be-fore being tied to a car bumper and dragged down the street by the car. The attacker was fiftyfour- year-old Steve DiPonio who perpetrated the attack because he was tired of the homeless sleeping behind the school in his neighborhood. He also threatened to drag Dun-can to the river. Neighbors saw the incident and came to Duncan’s aid as he was left bleeding on the road. Duncan is described as a chronic alcoholic, but a gentle man. DiPonio pled not guilty when charged. His bail was set at eighty-thousand dollars, but he was released after posting bail. He was also charged in the summer with a similar attack, but the case was dropped when the victim did not show up in court.JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA–December 4, 2010Twenty-eight-year-old homeless man, Jason James

Jerome, was sleeping on a bench when he woke up to seventeen-year-old, Eric Francis Sandefur standing over him. Sandefur stabbed Jerome multiple times in the chest, stomach, neck and hand causing three of his fingers to be sliced and one to be partially amputated. Jerome was treated at the hospital and said that he did not recognize the attacker. Sandefur stated that he “wanted to know what it felt like to kill a human” after he turned himself in to police. Sandefur was charged as an adult with attempted murder. In June of 2011, Sandefur pled guilty to attempted first-degree murder. In August of 2011, Sandefur was sentenced to forty years in prison, the maximum sentence possible. This crime has prompted community-wide conversation about the rights of homeless people in Jacksonville.

Violence Hidden in Plain View (NCH Report)(Continued from pg 4)

(Continued on pg 7)

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BRADENTON, FLORIDA–June 24, 2010Investigators are searching for three individuals who

beat a thirty-nine-year-old homeless man, leaving him unconscious and in need of hospitalization. Ralph Perry was struck in the face with a heavy blow that al-most led to his death. After the attack, Mr. Perry found that his pants had been stolen while other belonging remained intact. Investigators have not gathered any other details about the incident.GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA–August 12, 2010Homeless man, John Michael Kamin was found

unconscious and near two pools of blood after being beaten and robbed by three middle-aged convicted felons. The three attackers were James D. Burney, for-ty-four, Kent Frazier, thirty-three, and Ronald James Young, fifty. A witness at the scene said that Kamin revealed that he had some cash, and then shortly after, the four men got in an argument. The first punch was thrown by Frazier. Once Kamin was beaten, the three men robbed him of his cell phone and wallet. The at-tackers were charged with robbery and battery. In ad-dition, Young was charged with displaying a weapon. After Kamin was found, he was taken to the hospital. He is expected to make a full recovery.HUNTINGTON, WEST VIRGINIA–September

6, 2010A homeless man, William Mullins, was sitting near

the riverfront when three teenagers approached him.

He thought they were innocent until two of the teens began to kick and punch him while the third, a fourteen-year-old girl videotaped the beating. Mullins said that he knew it was an intentional act of violence when he saw the camera. As the attack was occurring, the three teenagers were laughing and making jokes. They posted their video on Photobucket and Facebook. The attack was reported by parents of friends who watched the video online. The fourteen-year-old attacker is being charged with malicious wounding and the seven-teen-year-old is being charged with battery. The teen that video-taped the beating has yet to be charged, but will be charged as necessary.KEY WEST, FLORIDA–Octo-

ber 26, 2010Russell Benison, fifty-eight, re-

ceived medical attention for a laceration to his arm after being pushed to the ground by a man. The man approached Benison and identified himself as a member of law enforcement. He proceeded to call Benison names like “worthless bum.” There was an exchange of words when Benison told him to leave. The man then pushed Benison to the ground. The suspect is said to have gone out of his way to speak to and attack Benison because the incident took place in a small area between two buildings. The police report says that Benison was chosen be-

Carey Codd CBS MiamiOn the shelves of several convenience stores in

South Florida, CBS 4 News found a drug that law enforcement, legislators and drug experts describe as “dangerous” and even deadly, and despite efforts to ban the drug, the makers are able to keep it legal and for sale.Wrapped in a colorful package with a catchy name,

synthetic marijuana — also known as Spice or K2 — is marketed as incense, is not detectable in most drug tests and is labeled “not for human consumption.” But despite federal and state efforts to ban the chemicals used to make the drug, experts say it’s use appears to be on the rise.And experts also say that the makers of the drug are

staying one step ahead of law enforcement to keep the drug legal by changing the chemical makeup of the drug to use compounds that have not yet been banned.“They’re miles ahead.

They’re not just steps any-more,” Chip Walls told CBS4′s Carey Codd. Walls is a forensic toxicologist at the University of Miami.He explained that there’s

a simple reason Spice is still on store shelves.“Problem is,” Walls ex-

plained, “they’re chang-ing (ingredients) as fast as the government is putting them on a controlled sub-stance list.”And the makers of the

drug are apparently mak-ing money.“I sell like probably like 100 a day… easy,” said an

unidentified South Florida gas station clerk.One teen, who did not want to be identified, told us

she smoked Spice.“One of the times that I did it I felt like I was gonna

have a heart attack,” the teen said. “My heart was beating really fast. I was trying to catch my breath.”The teen told CBS 4 News that she didn’t realize

how dangerous the drug is.“If something’s legal, the law says it’s ok. So why

not?” the teen said.Medical professionals and drug investigators say

Spice can cause devastating side effects.“It produces extremely rapid increases in heart rate

and blood pressure,” Walls explained. “There have been reports of stroke, seizure activity.”Just last month, published reports indicated that ac-

tress Demi Moore used fake pot.The people who called 9-1-1 are quoted as saying,

“She smoked something. It’s not marijuana, but it’s similar to… it’s similar to incense and she seems to be

Synthetic Marijuana: How Dangerous Is It?

having convulsions of some sort.”Over the past few years, federal and state investigators have

taken notice of the dangers of synthetic marijuana.Last year, the DEA temporarily banned several of the chemi-

cals used to make synthetic marijuana.Also last year, the Florida legislature made it a crime to pos-

sess some of the ingredients.However, experts say the makers of this drug are crafty in get-

ting around the law. Not only do they change the ingredients, experts say, but they come with warning labels saying it’s not for human consumption and doesn’t contain the banned sub-stances.Florida lawmakers are taking aim at the drug again this year.Representative Clay Ingram (R-Pensacola) is sponsoring

legislation that would place more of the chemical compounds used to make Spice on the restricted substances list. Under the new law, possession, manufacture or sale of the drug would be a third degree felony in Florida.

Ingram said the bill is a priority of Florida Attorney General Pam Bon-di, who also pushed for legislation last year to ban the drug known as bath salts.“If this keeps young people from

hurting themselves, if this saves some lives, that would be my goal,” Ingram said.That’s the goal for many of the

people who have encountered Spice.Walls tested two bags of that Spice

CBS 4 bought at a Miami Beach grocery store.“This is a very dangerous product.

It’s totally uncontrolled. We don’t know what they’re putting in, in

what concentrations,” Walls told Codd.Walls found chemicals in Spice that are more powerful than

regular pot. But none of what he found is illegal.“These chemicals are dangerous. They’re leading to hospi-

talizations. There have been deaths. People have committed suicide after the use of this drug,” Walls said.Another concern for parents — Spice is easily available on-

line. One website even brags that Spice is becoming increas-ingly popular at teen parties.Here’s more evidence of the drug’s dangers, according to

experts — the number of people becoming sick on synthetic marijuana has nearly doubled in Florida since 2010 and more than doubled nationally in that time, according to the Florida Poison Control Center.Dr. Nabil El Sanadi is the Chief of Emergency Medicine for

Broward Health. He says parents need to pay close attention to the dangers of synthetic marijuana.“This is like the perfect hook for young kids,” said Dr. El

Sanadi. “For the unsuspecting teenagers and young adults that use these things that don’t even know what’s in it, they could have long-lasting, lifelong bad effects.”

Dear Readers:

In reference to the “Fake Pot” story in this issue I give the strongest warnings to any parent or even a friend and it is so essential that parents know what these packages of “Fake Pot” looks like. They come in many different names and colorful small packages. Just go into a gas sta-tion or a smoke shop or even go online and get to know what the actual packages look like. This way if you see it in your child’s bedroom or car you already are prepared and are familiar so you can ID the product faster. This product is so dangerous that it may be a

matter of life or death if your child smokes it. Your kids will say it is legal and for now it is. Why Legal? The manufacturers keep changing the product when the law changes. Your kids will even say, they do not smoke it they use it to make their room or car smell good. Your child may even be so bold to say “look mom, it says right on the package not made for human use.” If you child has this product they are smoking it. Some of you may remember about ten years

ago we went after the manufacturers of OxyCon-tin and the doctors who prescribed all kinds of narcotics that were killing our kids. I flew to meet with the Attorney General Office in Tal-lahassee. I also flew to Washington to meet with members of congress to start some type of advo-cacy and changes in the law and I coined two titles for these doctors who were nothing more than legal drug dealers. The two titles I gave these pain clinics were “Drug Dealing Doctors” or “Pill Partying Physicians.” We at the Homeless Voice were the first to do any type of advocacy going after these pain clinics but it took Florida a long time, almost ten years to do anything about it. During those ten years many kids and adults were lost because of overdoses. When it comes to this new way of getting high

or should I say a way to die it seems a lot more is being done in a faster motion. This product is not a product to party with, it is pure poison and if you do not ask your kids questions you may be in for a ride you wish you never took. So parents ask questions and be nosey parents, for a nosey parent is a parent that is smarter than their children.

Sean Cononie, Founder

“She smoked something. It’s not marijuana, but it’s similar to… it’s similar to incense and she seems to be having convulsions of

some sort.”

Reported Violence 2010

Violence Hidden in Plain View (NCH Report)

cause of his socio-economic status.PORT RICHEY, FLORIDA–November 19, 2010Theresa Sylvester, thirty-five, and Ronald Johal,

twenty-five, picked up a homeless man who was look-ing for work from the side of the road and promised to pay him one hundred dollars. They took the home-

less man to their house and beat him. The couple punched and kicked him, causing multiple bruises. A witness says that the woman pinned the man’s head down with her foot and the other perpetrator’s foot was on the homeless man’s back. When ques-tioned, the couple said that they were planning on beating the man up because he had hit their

son. The couple was arrested and will face charges of aggravated battery. The woman will also be charged with violating her probation.ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA–November 24,

2010A homeless man was beaten and thrown over a sea

wall. The victim attempted to report the incident to the police, but they refused to take his statement.

15 + Violent Acts13-145-92-41No incidents reported

Florida 21California 12Texas 8Washington 7Ohio 6Michigan 5New York 5Oregon 5Virginia 5Alaska 3Arizona 3

Georgia 3Pennsylvania 3Alabama 2Connecticut 2Indiana 2Louisiana 2Maine 2Maryland 2North Carolina 2South Carolina 2West Virginia 2

Delaware 1Illinois 1Iowa 1Kansas 1Massachusetts 1Minnesota 1Missouri 1Montana 1Nevada 1No incidents reported

FL

TX

CA

OH

VA

OR

WA

MI

NY

MT ND

SD

MN

IA

GA

SC

NC

PA

ME

MO

TN

AL

KY

WVIN

NE

KS

OKAR

MSLA

IL

WI

WY

ID

NVUT

CO

AZNM

VTNH

MA

RICT

NJ

DE

DC

MD

AK HI

Puerto Rico

“...a homeless man, was tied up and beaten with a baseball bat before being tied to a car bumper and dragged down

the street...”

(Continued on pg 8)

(Continued from pg 5)

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Violence Hidden in Plain View (NCH Report)(Continued from pg 7)

Profile of Homeless VictimThe most common victim of homeless hate crimes

is a middle aged, homeless man. Between 1999 and 2010, on average, almost thirty-six percent of victims were between the ages of forty and fifty, and sixty-five percent of the victims are between the ages of forty and sixty. In 2010, the average age of the home-less victim was forty-eight. In addition to being pre-dominantly middle aged, a large majority (ninety-three percent) of victims were male.Profile of the Accused/Convicted PerpetratorIn contrast to the victim, the most common perpetra-

tors of homeless hate crimes are young men. In the past twelve years, nearly eighty percent of the per-petrators were under the age of twenty-five. In 2010, nearly half of the accused/convicted perpetrators were under twenty years old. The youngest known perpetrator in 2010 was just nine years old. Almost all (eighty-eight percent) of the perpetrators of home-less hate crimes in 2010 were male.In the past twelve years the National Coalition for

the Homeless (NCH) has documented over one thou-sand, one hundred eighty-four crimes committed against homeless people by housed individuals. These violent attacks have cost three hundred twelve home-less people their lives. In this January 2012 report, NCH has documented one hundred thirteen incidents of violent attacks against the homeless; twenty-four of which resulted in death. These statistics indicate a fairly consistent rise in crimes against the homeless since NCH started tracking such crimes in 1999.While the number of violent attacks committed

against the homeless that led to death dropped from 2009, the number of violent attacks overall remains consistent with last year’s findings. In 2010, we saw the first documented perpetrator under the age of ten to be accused of a hate crime against a homeless in-dividual. In addition, the YouTube sensation “Bum Fights” has reached a startling number of viewers in 2010, having been viewed more than 2.5 million times last year alone. This information begs the ques-

Ages of 2010 Accused/Convicted Perpetrators

48%

24%

15%

10%2% 1%

Under 20 20s 30s 40s 50s 60+tion: are videos that victimize homeless individuals influencing young viewers to commit violent acts against the homeless? In any event, these troubling facts push the need for new, strong homeless hate crimes legislation even further into the spotlight of America. We cannot, and must not, continue to allow Amer-ica’s homeless to be victimized; nor can we allow our youth to be inspired to commit such heinous acts by popular media.Hate Crimes Against the Homeless: Violence Hidden in Plain

View’s main objective is to educate lawmakers, advocates, and the general public about the problem of hate crimes and vio-lence against homeless people. The hope is to instigate change

and ensure protection of civil rights for everyone, re-gardless of their economic circumstances or housing status. Although some communities are taking posi-tive steps toward protecting homeless individuals, NCH believes that violence against the homeless is a trend that will continue to grow unless there is true ac-countability for crimes committed, established effec-tive methods of prevention, and positive action taken by advocates, legislators, and community members.

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On SpiritualityDeacon Bob

This months Voice concerns hate crimes and hatred of certain peoples or classes of peoples. We know that over the life span of humanity there has always ex-isted some form of hate. Cain and Able being the first biblical murder. The first children of the first parents, so as far back as we can tell, there was never some peace filled place to call home. It makes me wonder what it is about some of us that we love to hate. Or is it about all of us, but some have found a way to love instead. When we consider the history of humankind, finding sustained periods of peace is very difficult to do. We want what others have. We want more. We want something, and that is at the beginning of conflict. The simple solution then is to not want. To be happy or at least content with who we are and what we have. I realize the challenge this philosophy poses. I also am aware that we are not programed to settle for less. We are taught from early childhood to excel, and to apply ourselves fully that we may enjoy the finer things in life. As a close follower of Jesus Christ I find the answers to most puzzling questions in Him. The gospel teaches us to treat everyone with dignity. To treat our neighbor as we want to be treated. To give to all who ask. When someone asks for a shirt give him your coat as well. To feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to visit the sick and imprisoned. For most of us this is a tall order, but it is the pathway to peace and the end of hate. Hatred is defined in Web-

sters dictionary as ‘prejudiced hostility.’ To get to be prejudiced, we have to pass judgment, to get away from prejudice we cannot judge. To find peace in our life and the lives of those around us we need the Prince of Peace. We need to be connected to the one who knows hatred and evil better than we ever can. Jesus gave His life for our life, for our life eternal. In prayer and in the practice of His way may we all be a part of the end of hate.

CDCFebruary is filled with heart clad images celebrat-

ing Valentine’s Day. Although the history and evolu-tion of Valentine’s Day are attributed to a number of different legends, what is certain is that February 14 is associated with love, care, and the heart. Nearly 50 years ago, February was designated as American Heart Month, which has further cemented the heart as an ever-present symbol during this month. This national observance raises awareness about the risks of heart disease and lifestyle changes that can reduce cardiovascular risks and promote healthy hearts. The Million Hearts™ Campaign, recently launched by the Department of Health and Human Services to prevent one million heart attacks and strokes over 5 years, is also keeping heart health in the forefront at this time. Given that February is recognized as a time to cel-

ebrate love, caring, and heart health, what better time to improve your own heart health or encourage loved ones to improve theirs by quitting smoking? About 130,000 cardiovascular disease deaths per year in the United States are attributable to smoking. Also, approximately 26% of heart attacks and 12-19% of strokes are attributable to smoking. The Surgeon General has concluded that cigarette smoking greatly increases one’s risk for heart disease. Being smoke-free and eliminating exposure to secondhand smoke is important to heart health. Smoking and Heart Health When you smoke or are exposed to secondhand

smoke, cells that line your body’s blood vessels react to the poisons in tobacco smoke almost immediately. Your heart rate and blood pressure go up. Your blood vessels grow narrower. Chemical changes caused by tobacco smoke also make blood more likely to clot. Clots can form and block blood flow to your heart. Smoking is one cause of dangerous plaque buildup

inside your arteries. Plaque clogs and narrows your arteries. This can trigger chest pain, weakness, heart attack, or stroke. Plaque can rupture and cause clots that block arteries. Completely blocked arteries can cause sudden death. Smoking is not the only cause of these problems, but it makes them much worse.Secondhand Smoke and Heart HealthTobacco smoke hurts anyone who breathes it. When

you breathe secondhand smoke, platelets in your blood get sticky and may form clots, just like in a person who smokes. Research shows that even spend-ing time in a smoky room could trigger a heart attack. There is no risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke. Even brief exposure can be harmful to your health, especially if you are at risk for heart disease.Quitting Saves LivesYou have years of life to gain and love to give by

quitting smoking. Your risk for heart attack drops sharply just 1 year after you quit smoking. In fact,

even if you’ve already had a heart attack, you cut your risk of having another one by a third to a half if you quit smoking. And because secondhand smoke also affects others and can increase their risk for heart attack and death, quitting smok-ing can help protect your loved ones. Make an effort during this heartfelt holiday to stop smoking and/or to encourage your loved ones to stop smoking.Support to QuitFor free quit support, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-

8669; TTY 1-800-332-8615). This service provides free sup-port and advice from experienced counselors, a personalized quit plan, self-help materials, the latest information about ces-sation medications, and more. Cessation services and resources are also available online

at www.smokefree.gov. These Web sites provide free, accu-rate, evidence-based information and professional assistance to help support the immediate and long-term needs of people trying to quit smoking.

Love Your Heart

When you breathe secondhand smoke,

platelets in your blood get sticky and may

form clots, just like in a person who smokes.

“

”Nadine Cheung

When you have a cold or are suffering from al-lergies, tissues are a must-have, but the cost can rack up when you’re buying them all the time. Have you ever considered using toilet paper instead? Here are a few good reasons why you should.

We’ve all grabbed a few squares from the bath-room roll in a pinch, but using toilet paper over tissues is actually a more cost-effective choice in the long run. On average, a box of tissues has 65 sheets and breaks down to about 2 cents per sheet. However, a roll of toilet paper has nearly four times as many sheets as a box of tissues and costs half as much.

Of course, you’re not going to toss a roll of toilet paper to your guests when they have the sniffles. With a pair of scissors, an empty tissue box and a little bit of tape, you can refill your dis-penser to look just like a store-bought version.

First, take a roll of toilet paper and cut down the length of the cardboard center with your scissors. Remove the tube. Take an empty square tissue box and cut three sides along the bottom. Pull the inner sheet through the top and tape the bottom shut. You’ll have a great looking tissue box in minutes, and can count your sav-ings with each and every pull. And that’s nothing to sneeze at!

Tissues Vs. Toilet Paper

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Get Noticed!

SUNSHINE AND LAUGHTER: TWO GOOD MEDICINES FOR THE SOUL!Donald BrownDid you know that sunshine can prevent some cancers

and lift you out of depression? And, did you know that a merry heart is health to the bones?

None of the above was likely a motivator for Sean Cononie, founder of the COSAC Foundation, when he decided to lead an aerobics session for the clients at his shelter. He’s not alone. Most of us don’t know that laugher boosts our immune system. Nor do most know that the body produces vitamin D, when we get limited sunlight.

One ray of sunshine, of a different type, is Althea Jones. Ms. Jones came to the shelter in November 2011. As Sean observed Althea Jones and how she carried her-self they became friends in time. And one day Althea’s sunshine came through bright and clear!

“Sean has been leading the aerobic class each day since I’ve been here. He [leads] the sessions three times a day, when he can. Jokingly I said, ‘I’m going to go do aero-bics with Sean.’ And others would say, ‘No you’re not [going] up there!’ And, I’d reply ‘yes I am!’ So every time I’m available, I get up and I do [aerobics]. When I do, I bring a handful of people with me. Every time he does [aerobics], I’m there!

“One day, I took over Sean’s class. I think he had to go [somewhere] and he said to me, ‘Okay, Althea, this is your class today!’ I said, “huh?!?” Sean said, ‘You stand right here.’ So here I am getting into the session [the way] Sean does it.

“Then [Sean] told me to [lead] the exercise session one day. He left [the shelter]. So, I told the group, ‘Let me show you ‘all how to really do aerobics. I just acted like a total clown that day!” said Jones, laughing. “And they were laughing and giggling,” she said. Later Sean came back and she resumed leading the group in Sean’s style. But, ever since then everybody asks if Althea will be leading the exercise or not, because Althea’s antics brought laughter to the exercise group.

Studies have proven that laughter boosts the immune system, ac-cording a study in 1989 by the Department of Clinical Immunol-ogy at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, California.

King Solomon wrote in Proverbs 17:22 (KJV), “A merry heart doeth good like medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.”

The medicine of laughter combined with the healing properties of sunlight is a two-fold blessing.

In the book “The UV Advantage”, the author indicates exposure to sunlight without sunscreen helps the body produce vitamin D. For those with light skin tone they need about 10 minutes of expo-sure time; those with darker skin tones, about thirty-minutes. Not using sunscreen will enable the sun’s ultraviolet rays to reach the skin. The UV rays are the catalyst that promotes the formation of vitamin D. This obscure vitamin has been linked to preventing osteoporosis, depression, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and other ailments.

Each guest has more than one daily opportunity to get some sun-light and exercise.

“Sean leads the [morning] exercise from 7-8 a.m., the afternoon from 3-4 p.m., and then at night from 8-9 p.m. We’re either in the parking lot [behind the shelter] or on the north side parking lot, and sometimes under the [covered parking] lot. The sessions are about 30-45 minutes,” said Jones.

“[Before exercising] some people complain about hurting backs pain and after we finish they say they feel much better or that their pain is gone…some say, ‘Oh I lost two or three pounds.’ I say ‘Girl you look so good!’ I always keep them on their toes,” said Jones.

Jones has worked at a local motel as head of housekeeping for the last three years. Recently she hit hard times and lost her home to foreclosure.

“I have three brothers,” said Jones. They live in the DC metro area. And I have a son who just graduated from college, Ohio State. His major is architecture. He lives in DC. I’m going to see him next month when I take vacation. I’ll spend two weeks [in DC] with him. Then I’ll come back.”

When asked what keeps her in South Florida, Jones said, “I’m used to this climate. When I go up there [DC Metro area] it’s

cold…it doesn’t get that cold down here to me.”Another reason Jones likes Florida is the warmth of the

people that have helped her since her run into hard times.“Sean has been helping me put my life back together

and getting on my feet. He’s not rushing me out or any-thing like that, as long as I follow the rules,” said Jones. “He’s become more like a father figure to me. Because if I have a father, I know I can always talk to him and he’ll talk it out with me. And I’ll feel much better.

“I like it here! They don’t give me any problems be-cause I try not to give them any problems and not get on anybody’s nerves,” laughed Althea.

When asked how she is able to overcome her challeng-es, Jones said, “Because of my self-esteem and how I carry myself, and who I deal with. When I feel I’m deal-ing with a negative person, I go the other way and find a positive person and follow them,” said Althea, laughing.

Jones is considering going back to school to become a social worker, and is working with Sean to find her own place when the time and price is right.

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