#OurMiramar City Beat: Q2 | 2016

MIRAMAR

CITY BEAT

QUARTER TWO | 2016

THE MIRAMAR

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1 WWW.ITSRIGHTHEREINMIRAMAR.COM

MESSAGES FROM MIRAMAR’S CITY OFFICIALS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MESSAGES FROM CITY OFFICIALS

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UPCOMING COMMISSION MEETINGS

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MIRAMAR STORMWATER MATTERS!

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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN MIRAMAR

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MOSQUITO PROTECTION IN FLORIDA

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MIRAMAR PD RECEIVES TRIAD AWARD

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MIRAMAR FIRE DEPARTMENT RECOGNITIONS

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RELAY FOR LIFE

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SPRINGTIME IN THE CITY

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MCC HAPPENINGS

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PRECYCLE

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RECYCLING & DISPOSAL RESOURCES

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HAZARDOUS WASTE & ELECTRONICS COLLECTION

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THE DISCO SOUP INITIATIVE

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VIRTUALLY PROTECTING OUR KIDS

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MESSAGES FROM MIRAMAR’S CITY OFFICIALS The Mayor’s Annual FREE 3K Run/Walk and Health Fair takes place on Saturday, April 9, 2016 from 8 a.m. to Noon. An active lifestyle and healthy diet leads to a better quality of life and that is our goal in Miramar. I am personally inviting all of our residents to start April 9th by running or walking the 3K with us - Miramar 3K Run/Walk and Health Fair.2016. Simultaneously, in the Cultural Center Banquet Hall, we will have Memorial Hospital Miramar health professionals doing blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, osteoporosis risk assessments and more. Kids activities include rock climbing, face-painting, the Miami Dolphins Jr. Training Camp and a Teddy Bear Clinic. Free on-site registration is available or email elaroche@miramarfl.gov.

Youth Advisory Council For a number of years now, a group of extraordinary teenagers have participated in our Youth Advisory Council Program. Juniors and seniors who attend Miramar High School or Everglades High School have had opportunities to attend Commission Meetings, National League of Cities Conferences and shadow department directors as part of this program overseen by the Mayor and Chief of Police. These students experience government and see first-hand how elected officials and professionals go about managing the City they call home. Some of our current students are about to graduate and it’s time to give others an opportunity to participate.

For students interested in being considered for the program, you can get an application from the school resource officer at Miramar or Everglades High Schools or email rgilhauley@miramarpd.org or elaroche@miramarfl.gov You will be required to write an essay regarding why you want to be on the Youth Advisory Council, submit 2 letters of reference from a teacher or administrator, community partner or business and you must be a Miramar resident. The deadline for submission is May 26, 2016.

Yours in Service,

Wayne Messam Mayor

Hello, I am Vice-Mayor Darline Riggs.

In the City of Miramar, we take great pride in being a beautiful and progressive City, but our focus should also be on making sure that our residents and business owners’ benefit from that progress. That means creating more local jobs for our local residents.

Historically, small businesses accounted for more than 60 percent of the net new jobs created so it is imperative that we find ways to support our small businesses and provide them with the necessary resources that will allow them to succeed. Furthermore, we need to put more emphasis on attracting new businesses and retaining existing businesses.

The more we expand our tax base and generate more revenues, the more we can invest in our infrastructure and Public safety. For example: • • • •

Putting more police officers on our streets Hiring more firefighters Installation and repair of sidewalks Additional street lighting to prevent crime

The future of the City of Miramar is very promising and I promise to make your priorities my priorities.

REMEMBER, IT’S RIGHT HERE IN MIRAMAR! Darline B. Riggs Vice-Mayor

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MESSAGES FROM MIRAMAR’S CITY OFFICIALS One of the most satisfying feelings one enjoys is when a resident and even a visitor remarks how well appointed the City of Miramar is. They commend our architecturally outstanding City Hall and its spectacular appearance on first sight. For a Commissioner who has had the pleasure of serving the residents of the City for more than a dozen years, this is most gratifying.

But, it should be noted that this level of achievement has been arrived at because of the hard work of all who work in and for our great city. One the most important components of our development has been the patience shown by our residents and businesses, over time. The improvements that have taken place in the historic section of our city, is a prime example of this change facilitated by the understanding and patience of residents which few cities enjoy.

The good news though is that there is more to come. Peak hour traffic continues to be a challenge but with a number of developments underway, some relief will come in that area. The completion of the Pembroke Road overpass, enhancement of the Bass Creek Road and the conclusion of the Interstate 75 development augurs well for our residents in the not too distant future. We can all be proud of the positive direction that the City of Miramar has taken.

Winston F. Barnes Commissioner

UPCOMING COMMISSION MEETINGS APRIL

S

M

T

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

W

T

C 13 C 27

7 14 21 28

JUNE

S

M

T

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

W C 8 C C 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

F 1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30

F 3 10 17 24

S 4 11 18 25

S 1 8 15 22 29

M 2 9 16 23 H

T 3 10 17 24 31

MAY W C 11 C 25

T 5 12 19 26

F 6 13 20 27

S 7 14 21 28

H Holiday (City Closed) C Commission Meeting C Workshop or Special Meeting

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MESSAGES FROM MIRAMAR’S CITY OFFICIALS

MIRAMAR STORmWATER MATTERS!

The City of Miramar has launched a public information campaign, Miramar Stormwater Matters! It will provide the community with key facts on decisions that directly correlate with the City’s growth, funding and preparedness as it relates to storm water.

The Miramar Stormwater Matters! Campaign is chocked full of ways that Miramar students, residents and businesses alike can learn about their City through something as relative as a Storm drain. In doing so, area Miramar science teachers will be provided with lesson planning tools and students with a poster contest to express what they have learned. Residents can look for informative videos and updates on their City Comcast Cable TV Channel (78) and favorite social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Plans also include getting information out to Miramar businesses and contractors that keep the City viable.

“The future of the City is in its kids,” stated Chief of Marketing and Public Relations, Natasha Hampton who further said that…..”Because sustainability is important -- beginning with Miramar students makes sense.”

Miramar Stormwater Matter! Campaign will also hit the streets when the City transforms its vehicles into “mobile mascots” of the campaign with vehicles bearing the campaign emblem and pledge. “It takes a lot to keep a fledging City working and the mobile mascots help bring light to the very vehicles utilized in this important work each day. This campaign speaks to the City’s desire to inform and engage its public on the impact of their tax dollars,” stated Thomas Good, Director of Public Works.

About Public Works The Public Works Department provides a variety of services directed toward the repair and maintenance of municipal equipment, properties, and infrastructure. The repair and maintenance functions include street maintenance, street lighting, building maintenance services, vehicle and equipment maintenance, landscaping services and transit operations. In addition, the department is responsible for related activities such as solid waste collection and disposal services, electrical services, and storm water management.

TAKE THE PLEDGE Miramar’s stormwater drainage system serves a very important role in our ecosystem. It allows rainwater to flow down to the lakes and canals without flooding streets and inhabited areas. Anything that goes down the storm drain will pollute our canals and lakes.

Unfortunately, there are still some who believe the storm drain system is an appropriate dumping ground for chemicals, trash, and green waste.

That’s where you come in!

We need your help to spread the word about how important it is to keep our storm drains clean.

Take the pledge by taking these steps around your home and within the community.

MARCH I will never dump anything directly down the storm drains or into canals and I will report all illegal dumping activities to the City of Miramar hotline 954-602-HELP. APRIL I will properly dispose of all litter. I will not throw litter within the right-of-way or into canals and lakes.

MAY As a responsible dog owner, I will always clean up after my dog(s) and properly dispose of their waste in a trash can.

JUNE I will properly and sparingly use fertilizers and pesticides.

JULY I will properly dispose of used motor oil & unused household chemicals. I will take unwanted hazardous household waste products to the City’s monthly Household Hazardous Waste Drop events.

AUGUST I will wash my car at a commercial carwash.

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Presents

MIRAMAR DAYS MAY 14, 2016

MIRAMAR REGIONAL PARK A Fun-Filled Day for the Entire Family!

FREE FAMILY EVENT LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

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Mosquito Bite Protection in Florida FloridaHealth.gov • Florida Department of Health Not all mosquitoes are the same. Different mosquitoes spread different diseases and bite at different times of the day. Some mosquito species bite during the day, such as those mosquitoes that can spread chikungunya, dengue and Zika viruses. Other species of mosquitoes bite most often at dawn and dusk, including those that can transmit West Nile virus.

Mosquitoes can live indoors and will bite at any time, day or night.

USE INSECT REPELLENT WITH ONE OF THESE ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

BRAND EXAMPLES* Overseas brand names may vary.

DEET➜➜

Off!, Cutter, Sawyer, Ultrathon

Picaridin (KBR 3023), Bayrepel and icaridin➜➜

Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus

Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthanediol (PMD)➜➜

Repel

IR3535➜➜

Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Expedition, Skin Smart

➜

Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents Wear repellent when you are outdoors. Use products with active ingredients that are safe and effective. nAlways follow the product label instructions. nDo not spray repellent on skin under clothing. nIf you use sunscreen, put sunscreen on first and insect repellent second. nIt is safe for pregnant or nursing women to use EPA-approved repellants if applied according to package label instructions. nLearn more: www2.epa.gov/insect-repellents.

Higher percentages of active ingredient=longer protection

If you have a baby or child:

Cover up with clothing

nAlways follow product instructions

nWear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

when applying insect repellent to children. nSpray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child’s face. nDo not apply insect repellent to a child’s hands, mouth, cut or irritated skin. nDo not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months. nDress babies or small children in clothing that covers arms and legs. nCover cribs, strollers or baby carriers with mosquito netting.

nMosquitoes can bite through thin clothing.

Treat clothes with permethrin or another EPA-registered insecticide for extra protection.

www.cdc.gov/features/StopMosquitoes www.cdc.gov/features/StopMosquitoes * The use of commercial names is to provide information about products; it does not represent an endorsement of these products by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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02/2016

Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear. nPermethrin is an insecticide that kills mosquitoes and other insects. nBuy permethrin-treated clothing and gear (boots, pants, socks, tents), or use permethrin to treat clothing and gear—follow product instructions closely. nRead product information to find out how long the permethrin will last. nDo not use permethrin products directly on skin.

MIRAMAR’S COMMUNITY RESOURCE UNIT RECEIVING TRIAD’S LAW ENFORCEMENT UNIT OF THE YEAR AWARD FOR THEIR WORK WITH MIRAMAR’S SENIORS The unit noticed the need to further educate and establish a better relationship with the seniors in our community. They organized two educational luncheons for these residents.

The first luncheon was held in February of 2015 for Valentine’s Day. Many of these seniors are windowed and/or do not have family locally. This was an opportunity to establish a positive relationship while educating them – in several languages – on crime prevention. The unit obtained donations from a variety of vendors to provide lunch and gifts to approximately 120 seniors. The unit also created a Bingo game to educate seniors on pedestrian safety. The game used pictures in order to cross all language barriers.

Last June, the seniors at the Sunset Lakes Community Center were treated to a pizza lunch and given information on crime prevention. They also received information on the latest scams that are targeting the elderly.

The second educational luncheon the unit put together, partnering with local businesses was a fraud prevention presentation with an interactive bingo held for the eastside Miramar seniors at the Multi Service Center in September of last year. More than 170 seniors participated in the event. The “Fraud and Scams” Bingo consisted of fact related questions to the group and the responses they would then search for on their individual BINGO card. A local restaurant sponsored the food.

These events served to decrease crime and the “fear” of crime in order to raise the quality of life for some of our most vulnerable citizens, our Miramar seniors. In December, the unit hosted a Secret Santa for Seniors event. It was a first for the department.

They collected donated items from employees and vendors in order to serve more than 240 seniors a warm lunch. The events ensured that our seniors today and in the future have joy, hope, and fun in their lives. An overwhelming amount of the seniors expressed their gratitude personally to the Community Resource Unit.

CHIEF WILLIAMS INVITES YOU TO JOIN YOUR NEIGHBORS AND POLICE OFFICERS FOR COFFEE AND CONVERSATION, WHILE SUPPORTING A LOCAL BUSINESS! April 9, 2016 | 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | LATIN FLAVOR | 11368 Miramar Parkway May 4, 2016 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | VICKY’S BAKERY | 12312 Miramar Parkway May 4, 2016 | 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | DUNCAN DONUTS | 2600 S. University Dr. June 15, 2016 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | McDONALD’S | 17001 Miramar Parkway June 15, 2016 | 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | TONY’S | 7996 Miramar Parkway

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FLORIDA’S 2015 PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER OF THE YEAR Miramar Fire-Rescue Lt. José A. Gregorisch recognized by the Public Information Section of the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association; Named Florida’s 2015 Public Information Officer of the Year.

The Public Information Officer of the Year award honors an individual who has made significant and valuable contributions to the Florida Association of Public Information Officers and who has demonstrated excellence as a Public Information Officer.

Find out more about and follow José at: www.facebook.com/JAGregorisch

MIRAMAR’S OWN NAMED 2015 FLORIDA’S FIRE MARSHAL OF THE YEAR The Fire Marshal of the Year award honors an individual that has demonstrated a commitment to reduce losses associated with fire and other hazards through progressive leadership, dedication and valuable contributions to the field of fire prevention and life safety. Since joining the Miramar Fire-Rescue Department, Chief Ray Perez has made great strides in moving the Fire Life Safety Division to new heights.

He continuously encourages his staff by providing opportunities for education and growth. During his long career in the fire service, Chief Perez has been a major contributor to the operations of multiple divisions to include: EMS, Training, Special Operations Risk Mitigation, Administration, and the Fire Life Safety Bureau as its Fire Marshal, responsible for all aspects of emergency service delivery. During his 30 year tenure in the fire service, he has received multiple accolades to include, the Life Saving Award, and multiple commendations for meritorious service.

Chief Perez’s professional achievements are numerous and distinguished. “He is truly deserving of this recognition, and he proudly represents our city” L. Keith Tomey, III, Fire-Rescue Chief.

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Before the Storm Hurricane Kit Checklist qq Drinking water: Be sure to have at least one gallon per person per day for three to five days. Extra water is needed for preparing food and for personal hygiene. qq Food: Be sure to have enough food for three to five days including non-perishable items. qq Special items: Have a three to five day supply of special items for babies such as formula, food, wipes and diapers. Don’t forget your elderly family members.

Stock up on special foods, toiletries and extra toilet paper. qq Manual can opener, bottle opener. qq Water may not be available, so be sure to have enough paper plates, bowls, napkins, towels and plastic eating utensils. qq Unscented household bleach and medicine dropper. qq First aid kit. qq Flashlight and extra batteries. qq Hand sanitizer. qq Two-week supply of medicines and prescription drugs. qq Battery-operated radio or television. qq Pet food, cat litter and other pet care items. qq Charcoal or propane gas for outdoor cooking. qq Corded phone (cordless phones will be inoperable in the event of a power outage). qq Fire extinguisher. qq Matches. qq Mosquito repellent.

1 CITY | 1 MISSION

JOIN US TO HELP RAISE FUNDS FOR CANCER RESEARCH

FRIDAY, APRIL 8TH | 6PM Everglades High School

17100 SW 48th Court | Miramar, FL Teams can register EARLY at: http://bit.ly/22niqKb 10

STAY CONNECTED

NEWS MIRAM

MAZIIRNGACITMY AR AM

D AY AR TO

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FOLLOW US We strive to stay connected to our residents and the South Florida community! Be sure to like us on Facebook: City of Miramar, OurMiramar and It’s Right Here In Miramar; Twitter; Instagram and our YouTube channel: City of Miramar.

Be sure to check back with us frequently as we have monthly contests for our residents (and those who LOVE Miramar) to win some great prizes!

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SPRINGTIME

IT’S RIGHT HER

It’s Right Here in Miramar—and so are you! That’s our City’s theme for 2016 and we want you to be “RIGHT” here in the thick of things! Check out our video to see why Miramar truly is the place to be in 2016!

It’s a great place to live, work and play and if you’re not a resident already, we would love for you to be HERE—It’s RIGHT HERE IN MIRAMAR!

MIRAMAR IS ON The City of Miramar is proud to introduce the ‘Miramar YOU Card’ powered by SpotOn! The free ‘YOU’ card is an affinity program providing discounts and deals at participating Miramar businesses and anywhere SpotOn is accepted! You can also use it to receive big discounts for City services like summer camps, facility rentals, concerts, shows and more!

The only program of its kind offered by a municipality and #ItsRightHereInMiramar! The best part is when your business signs up, you’ll receive complimentary Miramar YOU Cards for being a valued Miramar business!

Get your free Miramar YOU Card today at City Hall, 2300 Civic Center Place or any of the 17 and counting participating businesses in Miramar!

Miramar Businesses can call (954) 602-3129 for more information.

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CARD

IN THE CITY

RE IN MIRAMAR!

MIRAMAR DAYS RETURNS Last year, The City of Miramar celebrated 60 years of Beauty and Progress at a three-day event during Miramar Days and we want to keep the party going this year, too!

Come out and celebrate Miramar Days presented by Memorial Hospital Miramar and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital on Saturday, May 14 at Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway. It’s going to be a funfilled, jam-packed day of activities for the entire family!! Games, rides, food trucks, free live entertainment on stage and more, so gather up the entire family, bring your blankets and chairs and get ready to celebrate our City in a big way!!

The event is free and open to the public and the celebration continues as Miramar turns 61 in 2016! Mark it on your calendars for May 14. We can’t wait to see you there!

THE

MOVE!

The City of Miramar is on the world-wide web 24-7—with the advent of the “It’s Right Here in Miramar” Radio Station on Tune-in radio!

Download the Tune-in radio application, type “It’s Right Here in Miramar” in the search box, hit enter and voilà – click on the link once it appears and you will be listening to IRHIM radio. It’s easy as that!

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MCC HAPPENINGS…MIRAMAR CULTURAL CENTER April Family Shows and Little Broadway Summer Camp Presenting our first 2016-2017 Season Kick-off Gala Fundraiser!

GATHER THE FAMILY FOR TWO EXCITING, MUST-SEE FAMILY SHOWS!

Conch Fritters – Gumbo for Kids: April 2 at 2pm - Tickets: $15

Gumbo for Kids, sponsored by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, will delight and enthrall children of all ages, introducing them to the musical styles and dominant instruments of the tropics. Experience the soothing sounds of the ukulele and the fiery rhythms of steel pans, add the sounds of Bob Marley, and your family will share in one AMAZING show!

Arrive one hour early for FREE face painting and art activities.

African Children’s Choir: April 15 at 8pm – Tickets: $45 and $35

Africa Children’s Choir, sponsored by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, is comprised of a talented, 24-member ensemble of singers and dancers ages 7 to 10. Each concert reflects the energy and unlimited ability of these incredible children through song, music and dance, accompanied by traditional instruments. Your family will never forget this musical experience!

Discounted tickets are available for students and groups of 10 or more.

IT’S TIME TO GEAR UP THE KIDS FOR BROADWAY – MCC’S LITTLE BROADWAY SUMMER CAMP, THAT IS!

MCC’s 5th annual Little Broadway Summer Camp, a 7-week visual and performing arts immersive experience for youth ages 7-14, is almost here!

Camp runs June 27 – August 7, Monday – Friday from 9am – 5pm (before & after care available) Summer camp open house registration: Miramar residents, March 19 9am – 1pm at the Miramar Cultural Center | ArtsPark.

Non-resident registration begins April 11.

For more information, call 954-602-4519 or email Education@MiramarCulturalCenter.org SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR 2016-2017 SEASON KICK-OFF GALA, AN EVENING YOU’LL NEVER FORGET!

“The Phantoms…Unmasked!” MCC Gala Fundraiser, Saturday, October 29, 2016!

Save the date for a once-in-a-lifetime evening of intrigue and obsession! Three of Broadway’s most “phan-tastic” Phantoms perform classics of passion and seduction while sharing never-before-told stories of their experiences behind the mask and facing their darkest fears. Show tickets and VIP

ALWAYS FREE PARKING, LOW-PRICED TICKETS, QUALITY ENTERTAINMENT. THE BEST VALUE IN BROWARD!

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Hey Miramar, let’s

PRECYCLE What is Precycling?

Precycling is the step we take to reduce the amount of trash we make. An example is utilizing reusable plates and silverware instead of disposable paper plates and plastic flatware.

The idea is simple: By making less waste, and recycling more, we preserve Earth’s limited natural resources, reduce the amount of energy used, produce fewer carbon emissions, protect air, soil and water quality, save money and close the recycling loop.

The best way to reduce waste is not to create it at all. If we prevent waste, there’s no waste to collect, process or dispose.

Waste reduction combined with the three R’s (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) is the recommended method for managing our solid waste.

Another significant step you can take in waste reduction is being a thoughtful consumer. Before purchasing an item, consider if that item or its packaging can be reused or if there is a less wasteful alternative.

Here are some simple ways to reduce the amount of waste generated in your home.

• Use durable plates, cups, silverware and cloth napkins in place of disposable paper products.

• Use a reusable beverage container instead of purchasing individual bottles.

• Use reusable shopping bags to eliminate the need for paper and plastic bags.

• Donate to feel great. Consider donating what you no longer use. Many charities offer convenient at-home pick-up services for clothes, appliances and furniture.

• Participate in the City’s Curbside Recycling Program and monthly Household Hazardous Waste drop-off events. Visit the City of Miramar’s website for more information.

Shopping Tips:

Reduce Your Junk Mail

• Waste reduction starts by shopping smart. Learning how to be a thoughtful consumer will help reduce the amount of waste you generate, and also saves money.

• Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste.

• Buy concentrated forms of cleaning products and detergents.

• Buy fruits and snacks loose instead of prepackaged ones.

• Avoid purchasing items that are individually wrapped.

• Use filtered water and refillable pitchers instead of purchasing bottled water.

• Buy durable and reusable products instead of disposable items when possible.

• Buy items that can be recycled locally through curbside collection programs or at recycling centers.

• Buy the amount you need: larger sizes reduce the amount of packaging, but may increase the amount of leftovers. The idea is to buy the most appropriate size without wasting food.

• Contact the Direct Marketing Association (www.DMAchoice.org) to sign up for their mail preference service. This will allow you to remove your name from most national telemarketing, mail, and e-mail lists. You can register for free online or call (212) 768-1888 ext. 1888 • Register with the Consumer Credit Reporting Industry’s Opt-Out Program to stop receiving pre-approved credit card and insurance offers. All major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, Innovis, and TransUnion) participate in this program. Call 1-888567-8688 or register online (www. optoutprescreen.com) to opt-out of receiving these offers for five years or permanently.

• Contact the Yellow Pages directly at (www.Yellowpagesoptout.com) to Opt-out of the delivery of the Yellow Pages, White Pages and other Print Directories you no longer want to receive.

• Remember, opting-out will not end all mail solicitations. Local merchants, religious and charitable associations, professional and alumni associations, politicians and companies with which you do business may still send you mail.

Minimize Kitchen Waste At Home • You can substantially reduce the amount of waste generated in your home by utilizing reusable containers.

• Glass jars are excellent storage containers for foods, small items like screws and buttons, and of course, loose change.

• Buy items that can be reused. Re-using margarine tubs to freeze foods and pack lunches, for instance, reduces the need for foil, plastic bags and lunch bags and boxes.

• Soup and Tomato cans make a great starter for herb plants.

www.MiramarFL.gov

Public Works Department 954.883.6832

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Buy Recycled: It Closes The Loop As a consumer, choose products or packaging made from recycled content, the higher the better. This way, the materials we recycle are put to re-use, recycling materials remain in demand and recycling markets are sustained.

Additionally, purchasing products made from recycled materials has many valuable benefits: preserving Earth’s natural resources, prevents pollution and the creation of greenhouses gases which contribute to global climate change, saves energy, prolongs landfill space and closes the Recycling Loop.

BATTERY DISPOSAL

USED CAR OIL COLLECTION CENTERS

Confused about all the different types of batteries?

Are you a do-it-yourselfer, and want to recycle your used car oil?

Use the link below to help explain how to properly dispose of various types of commonly used batteries.

Visit the links below to find a list of collection centers that accept used oil from the public. It is searchable by county, zip or city, just fill in one of the search categories, and click the PUOCC search button, to find local collection centers.

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/batteries

http://appprod.dep.state.fl.us/www_rcra/Reports/puocc_query.asp http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/used_oil

plastic bags & film disposal

Keep your eyes open for bins at your favorite grocery, department and retail stores as they usually have store bins that accept a wide variety of plastic bags, films, and wraps. However, these items can NOT go into curbside bins (with a few exceptions). To find out more about what you can recycle in these bins, and to find recycling locations, visit the link below.

tire disposal

To learn more about waste tire disposal visit the link below. http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/tires

sharp object DISPOSAL

http://www.plasticfilmrecycling.org/s01/s01dropoff.html

Please check with your Doctor’s office, local supermarket, drugstore or pharmacy to see if they accept or sell sharp compliance postage paid envelopes. Materials are mailed through the U.S. Postal Service to a licensed facility for safe destruction. Visit the link below for state and local sharp disposal programs:

prescription medicine DISPOSAL

Please do not flush your medicines down the toilet or down the drain.

Visit the link below to find out more about disposal sites or how to safely dispose of old medications in the trash.

http://www.doh.state.fl.us/Environment/community/biomedical

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/medications

Recycling

For more information on recycling visit the State of Florida’s Recycling Homepage: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/recycling/

EARTH911 has a website and app that tells you where to recycle just about anything g on your community. Visit www.earth911.com for more information.

ARC Broward offers a recycling program to Broward County residents. This program accepts computers, printers, copiers, scanners, fax machines, TV’s, cell phones and printer cartridges.

CRT TV’s or monitors may be subject to disposal charge.

www.miramarfl.gov/publicworks/solidwaste

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MIRAMAR BUSINESSES RECYCLING PROGRAMS BUSINESS NAME

ADVANCE AUTO PARTS 7979 Riviera Blvd Miramar, FL 33023 (954) 894-6803

AUTO ZONE 3190 S University Drive Miramar, FL 33025 (954) 392-5202 2500 S State RD 7 Miramar, FL 33023 (954) 965-2866

HOME DEPOT 3183 SW 160TH Avenue Miramar, FL 33027 (954) 392-0767

HOURS OF OPERATION

RECYCLABLES ACCEPTED

Monday - Saturday 7:30AM-9PM Engine oil

Sunday 8AM-8PM

Monday - Saturday 7:30AM-9PM Sunday 8AM-8PM

Car batteries and engine oil

Monday - Saturday 6AM-10PM Sunday 7AM-8PM

Rechargeable batteries and compact fluorescent light bulbs

PUBLIX 6890 Miramar Pkwy Miramar, FL 33023 (954) 966-9100 9951 Miramar Pkwy Miramar, FL 33025 (954) 437-6124 11000 Pembroke Rd Miramar, FL 33025 (954) 441-7918

Monday - Saturday 7AM-11PM Sunday 7AM-10PM

Egg cartons, foam trays and plastic bags

14375 Miramar Pkwy Miramar, FL 33027 (954) 447-9212 18409 Miramar Pkwy Miramar, FL 33029 (954) 447-3334

TARGET 16901 Miramar Pkwy Miramar, Fl. 33027 (954) 435-2571

Monday - Saturday 8AM-12AM Sunday 8AM-11PM

Aluminum cans, glass, plastic beverage containers, plastic bags, MP3 players, cell phones, ink cartridges

City of Miramar | Department of Public Works www.MiramarFL.gov/PublicWorks (954) 883-5826

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The Disco Soup is a tasty initiative where participants “chop to the beat” to promote awareness about reducing food waste. It is a celebration where strangers come together to slice, dice and boogie to prepare “ugly” or blemished veggies which are transformed into a delicious meal.

The initiative empowers participants to save money, energy and our planet while having a lot of fun.

At the February 20th Disco Soup, more than 80 area youth, seniors, veterans and sustainability stewards collaborated with local volunteers and representatives of partner organizations to celebrate the delicious flavors of locally-grown food. The Disco Soup was held at the Miramar Intergenerational Fruit & Vegetable Community Garden, a micro-urban farm which promotes healthy living. What better way to cultivate community than by hosting fun educational events to boost nutritiously delicious foods. This educational program promotes urban agriculture, science, family nutrition and wholesome cooking in line with USDA guidelines and First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move initiative.

Modeled after similar events in Europe, the Miramar Disco Soup was first sponsored by the Miramar Garden in 2014 in collaboration with the Slow Food Network. It was created because food waste accounts for 21% of total waste in the United States and is the largest percentage of waste going into municipal landfills. As data indicates that the average American throws away $28-$43 in the form of approximately 20 pounds of food each month, the Disco Soup Initiative empowers audiences by providing easy to follow ways to become food-savvy.

What better way to engage the community than participatory performances where complete strangers “move to the groove” to create delicious recipes while learning how to prepare nutritious meals with veggies past their prime! The result is an audience inspired to shop wisely, buy “funny” fruit (veggies discarded because their size, shape or color), and be in-the-know about money saving “best-if-used-by” regulations, freezer hacks and composting ideas.

The Disco Soup supports: healthy eating, focusing on sensory education to develop children’s palates for fresh food; local & seasonal food choices, creating a generation of informed eaters; and active living, promoting urban agriculture as a venue for rewarding outdoor activities.

What do Lexicons, Carrots and Travolta have in common?

At the 2016 Miramar Disco Soup, participants danced-to-the-beat provided by a live DJ while chopping and preparing delicious recipes directed by Chef Trina Spillman from The Need to Feed Foundation. Participants were treated to a multi-cultural culinary experience offering drinks such as sorrel, ginger beer, lemongrass tea, kale lemonade and more. A Lexicon of Sustainability Pop-Up Exhibit showcased key components of a vibrant local food system. Local farmers offered freshly harvested vegetables and Master Gardeners hosted tours of the garden.

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WANT FREE VEGGIES? Join the MCG today! www.miramarfl.gov/green/garden 21

LIVE IN MIRAMAR | WORK FOR MIRAMAR City of Miramar is Recruiting

The City of Miramar is currently recruiting for part-time & full-time positions.

Learn about how you can join the City and help provide unparalleled services for your community.

VIEW CURRENT JOB OPENINGS AND APPLY ONLINE:

www.miramarfl.gov/hr For additional information, please call (954) 602-3800

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PROTECTING OUR KIDS

ONE APP AT A TIME

By Jenae Duarte

After hearing about a new instant messaging app called Kik, it occurred to me how vulnerable our cellphones make us to predators-- specifically our youth.

exposure to childhood mishaps and embarrassing moments shared at-will can haunt you for a lifetime.

I made this point to show that when thinking of predatory actions toward children, it is not always from the usual suspects like you’d see on the popular show ‘To Catch A Predator’. More than likely, it’ll be an acquaintance from school who shared a compromising photo with a pal.

Now essentially having the power of a computer in our pockets, we’ve opened a whole new lane for those looking to take advantage of our vulnerable youth.

Predatory Communications

Remember, when you are a child you’re generally not taking long-term consequences into account and make mistakes that in today’s context, could haunt you well into adulthood.

The biggest problem with a few of the newer apps is the vast availability for predators to access children. Kik really drives home the fear of not knowing what conversations our kids are having via text messaging and who they are actually communicating with.

Take Control Parents, please be aware of what apps your children have downloaded to their smart devices and understand exactly what they do. Google and YouTube are readily available to uncover hidden uses of any programs your children may have access to-use them!

Two functions of the app that are especially dangerous if misused are the ease of deleting chats and the anonymity of users.

Similar to the app Snapchat, where your messages disappear after 24 hours, Kik messages delete as soon you log off or “reset Kik”. This will delete the entire history of all conversations on the app.

The best defense is always a strong offense. The single best thing you can do is not allow any downloads without your permission, especially if you are an iPhone user. You, as the parent, control the credit card so you have the power.

Scary, right?

Here is a great article that goes into detailed instances of predatory actions and how to protect your kids when using social media. www.chicagonow.com/tween-us/2016/02/information-aboutkik-that-parents-need-to-know

I’ll admit I am a bit biased to the iPhone and this is just one more reason Apple wins with me.

Yes, it can be a bit cumbersome to always approve app purchases, but the peace of mind of knowing exactly what programs your kid has access to, is priceless.

Worldwide Bullies

The most important thing you should do is have a conversation with your children and make sure they have a good understanding of what to be aware of when online, even when it’s “just on the phone.”

With the new world of Social Media, our children have a myriad of issues that most of us never had to experience. Issues such as schoolyard bullying have become increasingly detrimental due to the viral nature of our society. Whereas, in today’s world, not only your physical classmates can poke fun at you but global

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BLOOM WHERE YOU ARE PLANTED FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016 | 10AM SUNSET LAKES COMMUNITY CENTER 2801 SW 186 Avenue, Miramar, FL 33029 The Miramarvels Early Childhood Academy at Sunset Lakes; along with their intergenerational partners at the City of Miramar Southcentral/Southeast Focal Point Senior Center at Sunset Lakes, will hold their annual “Bloom Where You Are Planted” planting event on Friday April 8, 2016 at 10am at the Sunset Lakes Community Center.

Little learners translate science lessons into reality in the spring as they plant and nurture green plants and colorful annuals around the entrance to the childcare facility. Participants of the Senior Center and members of the children’s families volunteer to provide the flowers, dirt, mulch and fencing. Then, they assist with the “dirty” work as our young gardeners dig holes and plant their colorful flowers along the walkway to the entrance of the building.

Combining the spring science lessons of the preschool; with the need for a fresh spring look outside the building, is an easy and natural fit for all ages.

This annual project instills a sense of pride for all participants and helps to continue building the bridge that ties the generations.

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Summer Camps CITY OF MIRAMAR 2016

REGISTER EARLY! SPACE IS LIMITED!

TWEEN-2-TEEN CAMP SPORTS CAMP

Children ages 6-12 learn the basics of different sports activities each week. All levels are invited to participate.

Miramar Youth Enrichment Center, 954-602-4780 #0; Ansin Sports Complex, 954-602-4990 #0; Sunset Lakes Community Center, 954-602-3340 #0

This group of active 13 to16-year-olds will be getting together every Monday through Thursday to enjoy field trips and more at Miramar Youth Enrichment Center.

954-602-3319

JUMP START

INTO KINDERGARTEN SUMMER CAMP This camp offers a fun and educational program created to assist children in the transition from preschool to kindergarten to keep children learning and engaged over the summer.

Silver Shores (Lic.46021); Youth Center (Lic.45706); Sunset Lakes (Lic.46209)

SUMMER SWIM CAMP

This camp is designed for children ages 6-12 who love to swim or want to learn to swim.

954-883-6955

MIRAMARVELS CAMP

A traditional summer day-camp for children who have completed kindergarten through 5th grade. The summer will be filled with fun-themed activities, field trips and more! 954-883-5230.

Available at the following licensed centers: Youth Center (Lic.45706); Silver Shores (Lic.46021); Sunset Lakes (Lic.46209)

LITTLE BROADWAY M.O.S.T. CAMP

This camp, funded through the Children’s Services Council, includes academic enrichment activities, physical fitness activities, nutrition education and healthy snacks.

Fairway Park (Lic. 45833) 954-602-4797 and Miramar Youth Enrichment Center 954-602-4780

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SUMMER CAMP This seven-week program is for children 7-13 years old that embraces the visual and performing arts and culminates with a public theater performance.

Miramar Cultural Center For information, call 954-602-4528

CITY OF MIRAMAR 2300 CIVIC CENTER PLACE MIRAMAR, FL 33025 (954) 602-4357 WWW.MIRAMARFL.COM