Miramar News | September 2021

September 2021

MONUMENT TO BE BUILT AT MIRAMAR REGIONAL PARK HONORING VICTIMS OF 9/11 To Mark the 20th Anniversary of the Tragedy The City of Miramar and Mayor Wayne M. Messam will host a ground breaking dedication ceremony for a new monument being erected at Miramar Regional Park to honor the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The monument will be made up of two broken beams secured by the City from Ground Zero following the tragedy that took the lives of nearly 3,000 people including Firefighters and Police Officers.

Event Date: Saturday, September 11, 2021 Time: 9:00 a.m.

Location: Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar FL 33027 RSVP: www.Miramar911Memorial.Eventbrite.com Mayor Wayne Messam stated, “9/11 is a day we will all never forget, and this new monument will serve as a reminder to everyone, including future generations of the brave men, women and children who lost their lives on that grave day. I encourage members of the community to join our city officials, public safety professionals, members of our Armed Forces and local students at the monument’s site dedication as we reflect on the day and pay tribute. We’ll also hear from our very own firefighters, police officers and a resident who were survivors or whom lost comrades during the tragedy. This dedication site will be

Rendering of dedication site the permanent home for the relics secured from the World Trade Center and will stand as a reminder that here in Miramar, we are mourning with the rest of the nation but we also look to a brighter future where freedom still rings.”

To learn more about events taking place in the City of Miramar, visit www.MiramarFL.gov or call 954-602-3178.

CITY OF MIRAMAR OFFICIALS

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MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER Dear Residents: I pray you are all continuing to stay safe in our great City. Our kids are back in school and now, more than ever, we all need to keep taking all the COVID-19 safety precautions as outlined by the CDC. I encourage you, if you have not already received the vaccine, please consider taking the shot.

We are making it easier than ever for everyone, aged 12 and over to be able to have access to the COVID-19 vaccine at a new location in the City- Lakeshore Park located at 8501 S. Sherman Circle. Testing for the COVID-19 vaccine will also be done at Lakeshore Park as well as Miramar Regional Park through our partners at Homesafe1st.

No appointments are necessary.

On August 14th, Haiti was rocked by a magnitude 7.2 earthquake and the city is holding a community donation drive that will benefit those who have been impacted.

We will be collecting items such as medical supplies, hygiene products and other general supplies to displaced citizens.

Donations are being accepted at any

Miramar Fire Station daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. through Saturday, September 25, 2021.

Station 19 - 6700 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33023 Station 70 - 9001 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33025 Station 107 - 11811 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33025 Station 84 - 14801 SW 27th Street, Miramar, FL 33027 Station 100 - 2800 SW 184th Avenue, Miramar, FL 33029 We stand with the residents of Haiti and we are committed to getting the affected individuals the much-needed supplies in the most expeditious manner. We are partnering with Global Empowerment Mission and with Accordia Shipping who will ensure that the donated goods get to Haiti.

Stay safe and let’s continue to lift each other up!

Miramar News is produced by the City of Miramar’s Office of Marketing & Communications

September 2021

September 2021

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MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR 3. Waste Waste Pro Pro will will provide provide daily daily 3. updates on resources and collection updates on resources and collection completion. completion.

Greetings Miramarians, Hoping your summer is going well as we make our way towards our new normal. For this column, I wanted to give you an update on an issue affecting our city, bulk waste collection.

Ever since the pandemic, our collection schedule has been inconsistent resulting in bulk trash not being collected for days. Although I recognize our environmental challenges, labor constraints and other factors, I am not satisfied with this situation, so let me explain what the issues are, cause of the delays and direct action taken to address these delays.

ISSUE: Solid Waste hauling contractor Waste Pro is experiencing significant delays in completing daily solid waste bulk collection and resulting impact to City residents.

STEPS MOVING MOVING FORWARD: FORWARD: STEPS 1.

City staff will continue to to notify notify 1 City staff will continue impacted communities by communicating any delays to Homeowners Association Property Managers for subsequent notification to residents; 2. Office of Marketing is also assisting with publishing notifications to the wider community via the City’s social media platforms; 3. City staff is exploring use of Waste Pro “Text-Em-All” notification system to aid in providing additional notification; 4. Assess any adjustments to retain unlimited disposal limits or reduce the amount of bulk that can be left curbside; 5. Request for Proposal (“RFP”) is pending publication by Procurement to advertise solid waste recycling and collection services; 6. Code Compliance enforcement of illegal dumping.

I thank you for your patience as we work to improve this service.

CAUSE OF DELAYS: The delays are resulting from a number of factors: 1. Industry-wide issue with labor shortage in recruiting trained Commercial Drivers’ License (“CDL”) drivers to operate collection vehicles; 2. Increased volume in bulk material placed curbside for pickup; 3. Landscape contractors generated debris taking advantage of City’s unlimited bulk and placing landscape material curbside for collection; 4. General construction related material (concrete, roofing, fence material) placed curbside for pickup; 5. Long wait lines at the dump site.

We can’t end the column without providing information regarding our upcoming events:

REMEDY: 1. Waste Pro continues to provide required resources to ensure bulk collection remains on schedule; 2. City staff continues to supplement with limited resource (equipment and staff) to retrieve bulk material;

Mayor Wayne Messam’s Aviation Expo, Saturday, December 4th, Amphitheater at Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar 33027.

Mayor’s Free Yoga Sessions Begins again in October at Miramar Town Center, 2300 Civic Center Place, Miramar, FL 33025.

9/11 Memorial Site Dedication – Register at: miramar911memorial.eventbrite.com Mayor’s Chess Challenge – Saturday, October 23rd, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Vizcaya Park, 14200 SW 55th St., Miramar 33027.

12"

Wayne M. Messam

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September 2021

MESSAGE FROM VICE MAYOR YVETTE COLBOURNE

Ribbon Cutting for New River Run Park Little Free Library Dear Residents: On Friday, August 6th, I celebrated the installation of the community’s newest free “Little Library” with a ribbon cutting at River Run Park. The free-standing book sharing boxes allow neighbors to borrow and contribute books 24/7.

Summer campers, as well as representatives from the River Run, Mirabella, Riverdale, Franklin Farms and Miramar Estates Homeowner’s Associations joined me at the event.

Additional locations at Civic Center Place Park and Ansin Sports Complex bring the total number of Little Free Libraries in Miramar to nine. Little Libraries are also located at Fairway Park, Lakeshore Park, Harbour Lakes Park, 19th Street Park, Silver Shores Park, and Vizcaya Park.

What a thrill it is to sponsor the new River Run Park Little Library so more children and families can enjoy the benefits and joy of reading. The City of Miramar is committed to supporting this national book-sharing movement that allows our citizens to share and discover new books.

Ribbon Cutting atDay Sherman Women’s Equality Circle- Revitalization August 26, 2021 wasProject proclaimed Women’s Equality Day by the Miramar OnCommission.

Saturday, August hosted a City This 7th, day Ihas been Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to comcelebrated annually on August 26 memorate the commemorates Sherman Circle since 1971 and the Revitalization Project, which compassage of the 19th Amendment to menced in the central Miramar community over 5 years ago. A total of $2.4 million has been dedicated to the project, which includes infrastructure and safety improvements as well as overall beautification enhancements throughout the community.

As part of the project, buffer walls were installed along the south rightof-way of Pembroke Road and also along the north right-of-way of Miramar Boulevard. Anti-litter cans and pet stations were also placed throughout the community. Bernard Park received upgrades including additional lighting and Lakeshore Park received upgrades to the playground, shade structure, pavilion, and landscaping. A bike rack and water fountain were also installed. Streets including Sherman Circle, Bernard Boulevard, Fogg Road, Jodi Lane, Stacey Lane, and other roadways throughout the community were resurfaced. Additionally, the site of the east water treatment plant underwent new landscaping and a new perimeter fence as well as a new generator was installed at the facility.

I am thrilled to see how this project has progressed. It has greatly revitalized the Sherman Circle neighborhood. These improvements contribute to a better quality of life for the wonderful families residing in the community. I also want to extend a special thank you to all of the AdoptA-Street program volunteers for their dedicated service at the various cleanup events held throughout the year.

Little Libraries Ribbon cutting at River Run Park on August 6th.

Vice Mayor Colbourne and Commissioner Chambers attend the Grand Opening of Island Tings Restaurant

Donating books to the Little Library at River Run Park

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Back to School Book Bag Giveaway

CITY OF MIRAMAR

VICE MAYOR YVETTE COLBOURNE

Free Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccination Events ®

Saturday September 11, 2021 Bridget Edwards and West Park Commissioner, Joy B. Smith with Vice Mayor Colbourne.

Saturday October 2, 2021

Time: 2 pm – 5 pm No appointment necessary !

FOR AGES 12 & UP

TWO LOCATIONS: KEY FOOD SUPERMARKETS 6819 Miramar Pkwy. Miramar, FL 33023 CLEVELAND’S OLD-FASHIONED ICE CREAM 6933 Miramar Pkwy. Miramar, FL 33023 VICE MAYOR YVETTE COLBOURNE Vice Mayor strikes the Lightning Bolt pose next to one of Basil Watson's maquettes of Usain Bolt at the Miramar Cultural Center.

#OneMiramar

www.MiramarFL.gov

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September 2021

MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER WINSTON BARNES

To say the coronavirus pandemic has been as disruptive as it has been tragic would be a major understatement for the still new century. In fact, it has been the worst in a hundred years and we in the city of Miramar have not been spared. While our figures for deaths and infections have not been the worst, we can not deny that our residents have been seriously impacted through loss of jobs and general dislocation.

It is for that reason why I was ready and willing when our Parks and Recreation Department asked if I would collaborate and host our bookbag giveaway on July 24, 2021. This was a tangible way to assist parents who have been seriously affected by job losses, fewer hours at work and changes in how utilities are used and

Commissioner Barnes joined by Mayor Messam at the Book Bag Giveaway at Lakeshore Park on July 24th.

how to pay for those increases where they occurred.

So, I was pleased and honored really, to support the drive to help the younger ones, pre-K to fifth grade with the gifts of bookbags with useful supplies to assist families when schools

Parks and Recreation staff and Commissioner Barnes treat the kids at Lakeshore Park.

reopened.

I want to also express a special thanks the young volunteers, especially, and the others who helped to make our event a success. And as ever, this success was only guaranteed by our always efficient and professional staff

members from Parks and Recreation in the main but also Utilities et al.

To our residents, thanks for allowing me to assist in any way I can in helping you all to navigate a very challenging time in our city’s history.

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MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER MAXWELL B. CHAMBERS We are at the end of the We are at it’s the time end to of the summer and get summer and it’s back to our kids back to school. After school time.

After being being away for quite some away they for quite some again time, time, are once they are once again faced faced with the challenge of with the of adjusting to achallenge new norm As adjusting to a new norm.

As coronavirus cases in the state continue to surge, I implore parents to ensure students have sufficient masks and hand sanitizers and that they practice social distancing. Vaccine is another way of helping to curb the spread of the virus.

Locations for COVID-19 testing open Mondays to Saturdays from 9AM - 5PM: West Miramar: Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33027 East Miramar: Lakeshore Park, 8501 S. Sherman Circle, Miramar, FL 33023 Vaccination site at Lakeshore Park opens: Wednesdays 9AM - 12PM Fridays 12PM - 5PM For vaccination only, open Tuesday to Saturday from 10AM - 7PM Vizcaya Park: 14200 SW 55 Street, Miramar, FL 33027

It has become increasingly evident that contracover the past 18waste months theasvolume of bulk waste tors’ generated such tree debris, drywall, placed curbside for collection has significantly and fences, have played a substantial role in the increased. has of impacted the regularity bulk increased This volume bulk materials placedofcurbcollection services. side for collection. The increased bulk waste and It has become increasingly evident that contracfrequency of contractors placing materials curbtors’ generated waste such as tree debris, drywall, side for collection is having a direct impact on and fences, have played a substantial role in the increased volume of bulk materials placed curbside for collection. The increased bulk waste and frequency of contractors placing materials curbside for collection is having a direct impact on Waste Pro’s ability to complete daily bulk collection routes, resulting in delays. In addition to the increase in bulk garbage items, the industry is also facing a shortage of truck drivers, mechanics, and other workers due to the pandemic. This situation is also compounded by the shortage of semi-conductor chips necessary for the operation of the trucks.

I know this impacts City residents and rest assured we are working to address the recurring delays and devise a plan to mitigate the situation.

Residents are encouraged to help with this process by limiting the amount of bulk garbage placed curbside per collection. Licensed Contractors are responsible for disposing their waste material. This will help to keep the cost down and keep the city clean.

Wishing all students and teachers a safe, healthy, and productive school year!

City Efforts to Address Bulk Collection Delays:

Jamaica Celebrates 59 years Independence and India 75th year Independence:

of of

The City of Miramar, through its Agreement with Waste Pro of Florida, has provided residential curbside bulk collection pick up. Traditionally in the past, this service has not had many delays, but

I am proud to belong to a city that celebrates diversity. In the month of August, The City of Miramar celebrated two countries. On August 6th, Jamaica’s 59th year of independence was cele-

Jamaica Celebrates 59 years of Independence brated at 75th Miramar Park and on August and India yearRegional of Independence: 18th, we celebrated India’s 75th year of independI am proud to belong to a city that celebrates ence (August 15th) at the City Hall.

I likeThe to diversity and inclusion. In the month ofwould August, take this time to reach out to each of the residents City of Miramar celebrated with these two counwho Jamaican and Indian I am tries.are On from August 6th, Jamaica’s 59thheritage. year of indeso happy that you chose this city to be your home. pendence was celebrated at Miramar Regional Bahamian Youth Track Team Visits City Hall: I was extremely happy to have Fast Track Athletics, a track and field club from Freeport, Grand Bahamas, visit the City Hall. Students from the age of 6 to 20 years flew to South Florida for the AAU Club Championships and chose our beautiful city as one of their tour stops.

Book Bag Giveaway: To prepare students for the new school year, in collaboration with Ava Stewart from StateFarm book bags and school supplies were distributed at River Run Park.

Upcoming Event: Miss Miami Broward Carnival Pageant On Saturday, September 18th, 2021, Miss Miami Broward Carnival Pageant will be held at the Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place, Miramar. Come out and share in the excitement to see who will take the crown. Yolanda Henry, Pageant Founder, is dedicated to keeping the Caribbean culture alive. The prestige of each of the title awarded to the winners will carry a lifetime of confidence, assurance, and self-empowerment.

You are invited to come support this great event.

Tickets can be bought on Eventbrite or by calling 786-356-0869.

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CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE REMINDER: Primary Election Scheduled for November 2, 2021 Primaries are scheduled for November 2, 2021 for the special election to fill the seat representing Florida's 20th Congressional District in the U.S. House. In order for you to vote in this election, you will need to register by Monday, October 4th, 2021.

If you are a Florida resident and eligible, you can use RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov to register to vote, or to update your existing voter registration record. If you have

any questions, please contact Broward County Supervisor of Elections by calling 954-357-8683 or email elections@browardvotes.gov.

Bahamian Youth Track Team enjoying lunch at City Hall

September 2021

September 2021

Hello, Miramar! I am grateful to be able to reach you through this medium once more. We must continue to wear our masks when required, social distance, practice proper hygiene and follow the CDC guidelines as new COVID-19 variants re-threaten our community especially the unvaccinated.

On Saturday, June 26th, we had such a blast at the City of Miramar's Taste of the Caribbean Islands celebrating our Caribbean roots and culture. We enjoyed an afternoon of food and dance with the residents and tourists alike. Thank you to our amazing host, Burt C. the Comedian for keeping our audience well entertained.

We were recently designated as an All-America City, but also my very own student intern whom I nominated to compete for the John Parr Youth Award associated with this organization, was one of just two winners across the country! Yes, she is a graduate of Miramar High School’s IB program. We not only produce greatness right here in Miramar but better yet, we reward it! July 7th was named Maya Bhola Day in the City of Miramar!

I would like to take the opportunity to remember the life of Community Leader Norma Jean Martin. We thank her for her commitment to our City of Miramar. The life of Ms. Norma was celebrated on July 9th at our beautiful Miramar Cultural Theatre with many of her family, friends and city leaders in attendance. She will be truly missed.

Thank you to Power of Faith Ministries as they held a day of prayer for our nation on July 10th. As a government we cannot solve all the problems that plague our country alone, we need to join with our faith leaders to tackle our many issues together.

Later that evening, I had the pleasure of attending the Greater Fort Lauderdale Democratic Club Luncheon with Club President Percy Johnson and other leaders alike. We are #strongertogether.

Thank you to the Miramar/ Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber of Commerce, Broward County Office of Economic & Small Business Development (OESBD), Greater Fort

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Lauderdale Alliance, Florida Small Business Development Center (FSBDC) at FAU and City of Miramar’s Economic & Business Development department for partnering with us on July 13th to bring you part 2 of 2021 BizFit COVID-19 Workshops. The free 3-part series is comprised of one-onone virtual sessions followed by a 2hour main event session designed to help small businesses reach more customers and grow profitability following a difficult pandemic year. The final session concluded on August 10th.

On July 15th I attended the American Cancer Society Relay for Life celebratory event supporting the cause with volunteers and Executive Director, Community Development Southeast Region, Arleen UriaSpeed! Let’s help get more funds into Cancer research.

I had the privilege of celebrating the heritage and culture with our Colombian brothers and sisters in the City of Miramar and the City of Weston on July 17th. I enjoyed myself dancing and eating great food, but most importantly, seeing all my friends in the Hispanic/Latin community. Que Viva Colombia!

I am pleased to have presented a Temporary Protection Status (TPS) Information Session in collaboration with Commissioner Dale Holness and Florida State Rep, Marie Woodson on July 29th. The session provided the residents of Miramar and surrounding areas valuable information on the TPS process; status of the TPS portal, documents needed for TPS, organizations providing assistance and future upcoming free events; the event was held both in-person and virtually with a very diverse panel comprised of Florida Immigration Coalition, Catholic Legal Services, Family Action Network Movement and Haitian Lawyers Association. Watch the replay on facebook.com/cityofmiramar/live.

Kudos to our Miramar Police Department for another successful Community & Cops event on July 31st at the Presidente Plaza. We had a great day visiting the businesses introducing them to their community Resource Officers as well as listening to any concerns they may have had.

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Meeting with kids from the community at Community & Cops Day

We have been bringing resources to you where you are, and I am pleased to have partnered with the Miramar Police Department on this initiative. I would like to thank Mothers Against Drunk Driving, MADD, for being in attendance.

We kicked off August with the Jamaica 59th Pre-Independence Day Fete at Miramar Regional Park Corporate Pavilion. It was a day for everyone to experience Jamaica’s sound system culture and celebrate the Island’s independence with a family fun zone, food vendors and music

by WZPP 96.1 FM, i-Star Muzic Production, Agent Movement, Express International Sound, XSQUAD Movements and Jamaican Selector, Sky Juice of Metro Media Sounds. Thank you to Game Rollers trailer who had our young ones entertained while we “whined” and dined.

As the moratorium on evictions

ends, I couldn’t help but think about the many people who would be adversely affected by this in our community. To this end, I was very proud to sponsor the City’s Free Virtual & Inperson Job & Education Fair on August 3rd at the Miramar Cultural Center. We had over 40 companies such as Amazon, WastePro, US Customs Border & Protection, Comcast and JBL Audio and 18 university and colleges, such as Barry, FIU and Nova in attendance. They were all ready to hire and assist with transitions into new jobs and career fields.

The Miramar Cultural Center featured an exhibition of maquettes by Basil Watson. Mr. Watson is a highly regarded Jamaican sculpture and painter recognized for his piece of CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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September 2021

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE Usain Bolt, at the Jamaican National Stadium, and recently his sculpture of Martin Luther King “Hope Moving Forward” in Atlanta. I was pleased to sponsor the closing reception on August 5th which included a moderated discussion as well as a celebration of Jamaica Independence under the distinguished patronage of Consul General Oliver Mair.

It is my hope and aim to commission a sculpture by Basil Watson to be placed in the City of Miramar in accordance with the Art in Public Places Ordinance I was able to establish.

On August 16th I hosted another Community Forum to share information on voting rights, property fraud, the right to protest among other topics.

This was a virtual event which included panelists Senator Shevrin Jones, Florida State Senator District 35; Marie Woodson, Florida State Rep District 101; Supervisor Joe Scott, Broward County Supervisor of Elections; Marty Kiar, Property Appraiser and moderated by Commissioner Dale Holness, Broward County District 9. If you missed this event, you could catch it on Miramar TV, Comcast Channel 78 and Facebook.com/cityofmiramar/live.

Upcoming Events: Alcee Hastings Street Naming Ceremony & Birthday Celebration Corner of SW 62nd Avenue and SW 33rd Street Sunday, September 5, 2021 1pm-3pm

National Prescription Day/Gun Buy Back Hosted by Commissioner Alexandra Davis Saturday October 23, 2021 10am – 2pm Love & Laughter Sponsored by Commissioner Alexandra Davis Saturday October 23, 2021 Miramar Cultural Center 7pm – 10pm

Commissioner Davis and DJ Skyjuice at the Jamaica Pre-Independence Fete at Miramar Regional Park

Please take care of yourselves and each other.

To contact my office regarding any concerns, please free to call (954) 602-3155 or email me at apdavis@miramarfl.gov. You may subscribe to receive email updates from my office at www.miramarfl.gov/Davis or follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @4AlexandraDavis.

Commissioner Davis with representatives from Walgreens at the Job and Education Fair held at the Miramar Cultural Center

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Jamaica Emancipendence Celebration 2021

Jamaica Emancipendence Award Honorees: Kay Martinek- Community Service, Alison F. Smith- Trailblazer Award, Cairo Eubanks- Rising Star Award, Charles Smart- Cultural Excellence Award

Grammy nominated reggae sensation, Etana performs.

From L-R: Mayor Messam, Steve Higgins, Comedian Oliver Samuels and Norman Hemming

Steve Higgins belts out his signature tunes

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September 2021

Hot Shots from around the City

Photo credit: Mark James

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July 4th Celebration in Miramar

Elected officials representing in their red, white and blue.

80s Pop Star, Taylor Dayne kicked off the show.

Latin band, TimbaLive performing

Grammy Award Winning Reggae Band, Morgan Heritage, belts out their hits

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September 2021

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September 2021

CITY OF MIRAMAR AWARDED WITH THE PRESIGIOUS 26TH ANNUAL ACHIEVEMENT OF EXCELLENCE IN PROCUREMENT AWARD

3RD NATIONAL AWARD GRANTED TO THE CITY FOR 2021

The City of Miramar has been awarded the prestigious 26th Annual Achievement of Excellence in Procurement® (AEP) for 2021 from the National Procurement Institute, Inc. (NPI). The AEP Award is earned by public and non-profit agencies that demonstrate a commitment to procurement excellence. This annual program recognizes procurement organizations that embrace Innovation, Professionalism, Productivity, Leadership, and e-Procurement.

The AEP program encourages the development of excellence as well as continued organizational improvement to earn the award annually.

Miramar’s Procurement Director Alicia Ayum stated, “This is such a great honor for us. It’s a pleasure to lead a team of dedicated and hardworking procurement professionals who are committed to leading the City’s procurement process in a fair and equitable manner. We will continue to serve our stakeholders including our Miramar residents well and are very proud of this achievement.”

For 2021, there were 181 successful applicants including 64 cities, 41 counties, 36 special districts, 19 school districts, 12 higher education agencies, 7 state or provincial agencies and 2 others.

In addition to the National Procurement Institute, Inc. (NPI), the AEP is sponsored by the California

Association of Public Procurement Officials (CAPPO), Canadian Public Procurement Council / Conseil canadien des marchés publics (CPPC), Florida Association of Public Procurement Officials (FAPPO), National Association of Educational Procurement (NAEP), National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO), NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement and Texas Public Purchasing Association (TxPPA). The AEP is supported by the Airport Purchasing Group (APG), OMINA Partners, Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council (SPLC) and the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC).

The Annual Achievement of Excellence in Procurement is the third major award received by the City of Miramar for 2021. On June 10th, the city was name 1 of 10 AllAmerica City Award winners by the National Civic League for the City’s work in inclusive civic engagement to build equity and resilience and create stronger connections among residents, businesses, and nonprofit and government leaders. The city was also named as a recipient of the 2021 Smart 50 Awards for 2 smart city projects.

To learn more about the City of Miramar, visit www.MiramarFl.gov.

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Planning for Your Retirement

Retirement for some is: “I am finally here” and for others, “That is too far away to begin thinking about it.” But no matter where you are on the spectrum, having the right plan is important. Keep your financial plan in perspective and make sure all your financial bases are covered. Whether your number is $1 to $2 million in savings or being totally debt free from mortgage, credit cards, car loans, student loans, etc. I want you to live your best possible life and not be restrained by money issues or problems. I want everyone to be able to enjoy it all.

Ultimately, it’s having the income you need to support yourself in the lifestyle you want and with the confidence that your money will last your entire lifetime — no matter how long you live. Having a solid financial plan for your golden years and being financially independent is an awesome feeling as it allows you to live on your own terms. Tell me, who would not want that?

There are several steps that go into the process of retirement planning, and the sooner you start preparing, the more equipped you'll be to handle retirement in a successful and enjoyable manner. Here are some tips to keep in mind when developing your retirement goals.

Financial Tips to get you ready for a successful retirement whatever that may be, full retirement or partial retirement: 1. Keep it simple 2. Start planning early (Don’t wait) 3. Determine how much time you have to save for retirement 4. Determine how much to put towards retirement a. 15% b. 10% c. Or less, but work towards the 15% goal

5. Figure out what you want (What will make you happy) 6. Don’t get caught up in penny pinching a. Expenses 70% b. Giving 10% c. Investing 10% d. Building a business 10% 7. Start investing now (As soon as possible) a. Take advantage of employer match if offered b. Start with small amounts of money c. Time in the market does matter d. Hit your investing goal early e. Don’t be afraid to job hop 8. Know your why (Stick with it) a. Have a reason for achieving your goals 9. Design your ideal life (live your absolute best life) a. Create your vision for what your ideal life looks like 10. Calculate your retirement number

11. Review your numbers monthly (Make it a fun date) 12. Grow your income 13. Focus on all aspects of your journey, not just on money Why should you set retirement goals?

There are several benefits that come with setting retirement goals.

The most important advantages of retirement goal setting include: • Peace of mind: This helps you eliminate stress. Be sure about your future, don’t leave it up to chance.

• Better decision making: When you have a solid retirement plan in place, it becomes easier to make financial and career-related decisions that support your retirement goals.

• Cost efficiency: When you create retirement goals early on, you have access to some more cost-efficient options compared to when you make retirement decisions later in life.

• Reduced tax burden: Understanding the tax bracket you

will be in when you retire is essential to properly planning for taxes you'll be required to pay.

• Retirement on your own terms: Planning for possible obstacles ensures you're prepared when it comes time to retire and that your retirement isn't delayed due to these potential obstacles.

Many individuals are considering retirement for different reasons, and some of those same individuals wish they had a better plan in place that could have helped them transition better. Speaking to many, they also wish they could turn back the hands of time to do things differently.

My hope is that this article will help those who are not prepared, become prepared, and those that think retirement is a long way off start putting a plan in place to approach this very important decision differently.

Be prepared for the future. Shift your mindset! I believe in you!

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September 2021

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT CAS ASSURANCE, LLC

Michael O. BayerePrincipal Officer Michael is the Principal Officer for CAS Assurance, LLC, a CPA firm based in the City of Miramar, providing value-adding services and professional insights to assist individuals, business owners, and executives to minimize tax liabilities, achieve better operational efficiencies, manage cyber risks, improve compliance posture, and achieve better overall success.

Michael is a professional accountant and auditor with over 20 years combined experience in accounting, financial reporting, taxation, budgeting, auditing, and cybersecurity management in both private and public sectors. His work experience includes working as accountant for a group of companies, as banks auditor for more than six years, and as internal and IT auditor for the Miami Dade County government for more than nine years.

He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensed both in the state of Florida and the Commonwealth of Virginia. He also holds other globally recognized certifications, including Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP®), and the AICPA issued Advanced SOC for Service Organizations Certificate.

Michael holds two master’s degrees – one in accounting and the other in information technology (major in information security management), both from Nova Southeastern University, Florida.

He can be reached at 954-3627113 or info@casassurance.com.

CAS Assurance, LLC 3600 S State Road 7, Suite 48 Miramar, FL 33023

FLAMINGO ROAD ANIMAL HOSPITAL

By Dr. Alexis A. Schulman, DVM Flamingo Road Animal Hospital Celebrates one year Anniversary!

It is hard to believe we are celebrating our first year of service in our beloved Miramar community.

When we set out to open our Animal Hospital we never imagined that our dream would be challenged by a monumental obstacle: The worst worldwide Pandemic of modern times!

We never thought that life as we knew it would come to a screeching halt and all those things we used to take for granted like going to a permit agency to have our business sign, to get our address on Google maps, to advertise our business, to even have a grand opening would become incredible obstacles.

As a new Animal Hospital we had to revise our protocols of receiving Pet Parents in our lobby in a safe manner and to make sure we were complying with county mandates to keep everyone safe. After all, pets don’t bring themselves to the Vet. In these troubled times, we also had to allow for humility, kindness and respect to be our banner to be able to offset the already stressed public that so desperately needed care for their furry (or scaly) family members,

while keeping our team safe from COVID-19.

Today, we are not out of the woods yet, but we have managed to carve a small niche in the neighborhood as the night sentinels of pets. We are available after work, after school and hopefully soon we’ll start seeing the after football, soccer, cheer, etc. practice crowd. We are here for anything from nail trims to vaccines, we are here for urgent care and emergency surgeries as well. We are here to care for pets that had surgery at their Veterinarian’s office but are not ready to go home yet. We have a special place in our hearts for bunnies, ferrets, guinea pigs, sugar gliders, lizards and turtles of all kinds. Soon we are hoping to add more day hours to accommodate for elective surgeries.

We face the future with Faith and Optimism that our world will heal and we will go back to enjoying our families and cherished pets and will be better for having endured. In the mean time, we will continue to guard the night for your pets.

Flamingo Road animal hospitalAfter Dark 6pm-6am. Closed Wednesdays and Sundays.

12280 Miramar Boulevard, Miramar, FL 33025 954-404-7991

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MIRAMARFL.GOV

MIRAMAR MAYOR NAMED PRESIDENT-ELECT OF THE FLORIDA LEAGUE OF MAYORS Mayor Wayne M. Messam elected as head of statewide mayors' organization

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WE’RE COMING TO Miramar City Hall TO APPLY FOR A HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION, YOU MUST HAVE COPIES OF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS: For All Applicants:  A valid Florida Drivers License OR Florida I.D. Card; AND  Broward Voter Registration OR a Declaration of Domicile; AND  Social Security Numbers of ALL owners.

For Resident Aliens:  Permanent Resident “Green Card,” OR proof of asylum, OR your INS I-485 letter showing that application to convert to permanent resident status is complete.

City of Miramar Mayor Wayne M. Messam was elected President-Elect of the Florida League of Mayors, an organization for Florida’s mayors, founded and developed by Florida’s mayors. He was officially elected during the organization’s Florida League of Cities annual conference in Orlando. Mayor Messam will serve this upcoming year as PresidentElect and will be sworn in as President for a one-year term starting in 2022.

“I'm humbled to have received the vote of confidence by mayors across the state to serve as President-Elect.

The Florida League of Mayors has a unique voice and is positioned to ensure Floridians receive the necessary resources and legislative action for our communities. I look forward to sharing the successes of Miramar while collaborating with President Singer and the Board of Directors on pressing issues faced by municipalities across Florida,” Mayor Messam stated.

Mayor Messam is no stranger to leadership and success. His accomplishments include being a starting wide receiver and a member of the 1993 National Championship Football Team under late legendary coach Bobby Bowden at Florida State University. Licensed as a General Contractor and a LEEDAccredited Professional, Mayor

Messam is a prominent young professional in the construction industry.

His company, Messam Construction, is currently building and managing some of the most exciting "green" construction projects in America and serves clients in the public and private sectors providing Construction Management Services. His firm Messam Construction has received numerous awards and is one of the fastest growing minority Construction Management firms in Florida. This diversity of experiences as a business owner and an elected official has proven to be invaluable in his role as a leader for the city of Miramar and the numerous Boards he serves nationally.

The Florida League of Mayors serves as a complement to the Florida League of Cities. It has been the official nonpartisan organization representing Florida mayors since 2005 and provides a platform for Florida mayors to advocate before Florida Legislature and speak on issues of prominence for their citizens.

Governed by a 53-member Board of Directors and staffed by the Florida League of Cities, the Florida League of Mayors forges a powerful voice that serves Florida’s cities well.

For more information, visit floridamayors.org.

ADDITIONAL TAX EXEMPTIONS ALSO AVAILABLE  Widow/Widower Exemption: Bring a copy of your spouse’s death certificate, newspaper obituary, or memorial card.  Disability/Veteran’s Disability Exemption: Ask us about the filing requirements for these exemptions.  Senior/Low-Income Exemption: Requires at least one owner be 65 as of January 1, 2021. Note: Husband or wife may file on behalf of both. (call for info on required documents)  See more exemptions listed at www.bcpa.net.

Property Appraiser Outreach staff will be taking Exemption Applications at: M Miramar iramar City City Hall Hall SSecond econd Monday Monday M Monthly onthly From, From, 11:30 11:30AM AM — 1:00PM 1:00PM 1:00P M

For more information, please contact the Outreach Department at 954.357.5579 or visit us online at www.bcpa.net.

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SCHOOL DAY Field Trip)

Friday, December , am – pm

COMMUNITY DAY

FREE EVENT! MIRAMAR REGIONAL PARK AMPHITHEATER

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Saturday, December , am – pm

# BeGreat

www.MiramarFL.gov

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CITY OF MIRAMAR

VICE MAYOR YVETTE COLBOURNE

FREE ICE CREAM for Miramar Residents!

Better times ahead when we’re vaccinated. Receive your COVID-19 vaccine and enjoy a FREE ICE CREAM from Cleveland’s Old-Fashioned Ice Cream!

You can get vaccinated against COVID-19 in Miramar at VIZCAYA PARK located at 14200 SW 55th Street and at many vaccination sites in Broward County.

For more information, please call 1-866-779-6121 or visit: floridahealth.gov

Valid thru October 2021

CLEVELAND’S

Ice cre am ref ere nc ph ot o e on ly.

OLD-FASHIONED ICE CREAM 6933 Miramar Pkwy.

Miramar, FL 33023 Proof of Miramar residency required.

VICE MAYOR YVETTE COLBOURNE #OneMiramar

www.MiramarFL.gov

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September 2021