West Park News May 2011 by Community Newspapers

Community Newspapers www.communitynewspapers.com

MAY 2011

WHO’S WHO

WEST

PARK

CITY

OFFICIALS

In City Government

WEST PARK NEWS Arrival At Another Milestone BY MAYOR ERIC H. JONES JR.

Mayor Eric H. Jones, Jr.

Vice Mayor Felicia M. Brunson

Commissioner Thomas Dorsett

Commissioner Sharon Fyffe

Commissioner Rita “Peaches” Mac k

City Manager W. Ajibola Balogun

I want to begin this article by recognizing our City Commission’s leadership in the making of some tough decisions in these difficult times. The votes have been difficult and sometimes the pressure intense, but there is a wealth of talent, vested interest and experience at the Commission table. By working closely with our Commission members and City Manager we continue to meet the challenges ahead of us. So, exactly what have we been doing since our City’s inception? We have been implementing an Era of Innovation in several areas. We’ve been fighting crime, improving neighborhoods, growing our economy, seeking means to create jobs, planning for the future and saving money. We’ve been streamlining, modernizing and transforming the way we do business during these tough economic times.

We have also been partnering with our colleagues from other levels of government. There is great benefit in working together across jurisdictional lines at the federal, state, county, and municipal levels that will pay many dividends today and in the future. Despite challenges, the state of our City remains strong and secure. We remain better off financially than many other cities. All indicators are positive: We have the best prospects to emerge from this recession closer to becoming the West Park of our dreams. New City Hall Opening We recently celebrated a great milestone with our offi-

cial ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony of our City Hall on April 14, 2011, with approximately 300 people in attendance representing county, state, federal, and municipal entities. It was a grand affair with music, hors d’oeuvres, and a building tour led by the City Manager. The ceremony was a great success thanks to our City Manager and staff for their tireless efforts. There is much to be said about how they maximized minimum dollars during these tough economic times. Our new City Hall is a renovation of former office space located at 1965 South State Road 7, next to Home Depot. Many who attended the ceremony commented on the new City Hall’s strategic location, and excellent design; people from neighboring businesses stopped by to see how the space had been transformed into such a wonderful use. In our City’s short history, we are very excited about this important landmark in our community, which represents the heart of West Park!

––––––––––––––––––– See MILESTONE page 2

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MILESTONE,

May 2011

from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

When reflecting on our incorporation in 2005, we can rejoice for what we see today. For approximately five years, our City was granted use of office space for staff and various functions by the Town of Pembroke Park, for which we are very grateful. We held Commission meetings a mile away at the Carver Ranches Library. However, knowing that the arrangement could not be permanent, we began our efforts to establish a presence for our City. Let me say at this juncture that no new taxes were needed nor required to fund the approximately 7,000 square foot City Hall and debt was kept to a

minimum. The design of the City Hall is intended to focus on customer service, transparency and accessibility to the entire community. This is an exciting time for all of us with benefits for both residents and staff. This design will not only help us provide services more efficiently, but will provide better access to our community. Our administrative offices moved and began operations in the new City Hall on April 1, 2011. Feel free to stop by and see another phase in our progress as we continue to make our City a great place to live, work, and play!

Plant a Tree and

Keep the Air Clean

May 2011

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A Special Tribute to West Park Mothers and Veterans!! BY VICE MAYOR FELICIA M. BRUNSON

M MMothers are everything to us when we are small... our lives revolve around her. For everything we need, we call mother. To protect us from all perceivable dangers, we want her around us. To take us, out we hold her arms. To kiss away our wounds, we run to her. And for a warm hug and love, we look for her. She is the focal point of our lives, the greatest human being in the world or should we say divinity on earth. On the special occasion of Mother’s Day pay tribute to your mother - the greatest blessing to you! What can we do in West Park to honor mothers? On Mother’s Day Shower your Mother! Mother is a gift of God. She is an angel who protects you from all the evils of the world and gives you a secure shelter in her lap whenever you feel stressed and insecure. Irrespective of how we look or behave, our mother showers us with all possible love and blessings in the world. Despite how successful we may become, she still can’t ignore her little concerns about us. Despite our maturity, we remain a ‘silly darling kid in momma’s eyes. Though she is a guardian angel to us, we hardly ever take the opportunity to thank her for being our dearest pal and best companion ever. On this Mother’s Day, shower your Mother. Tell her you love her and no one else could ever take the position she holds in your heart. On Mother’s Day Thank your Mother! There is simply no way we can ever really thank mother for all she has done for us. She is the one who will be awake all night when we are sick. Mothers are the ones who would forever complain that we

On Mother s Day, pay your most humble tribute to Mother! are not eating enough or not eating right. They would cook all sorts of things so that we are strong and healthy. Mothers in fact, worry more for our examinations than we must. They would take pains to complete our school projects leaving all other works behind while we play around with friends or just while away time watching movies. On Mother’s Day Apologize to your Mother! Isn’t it tough to imagine how she must have borne our temper tantrums when we were teenagers – or adults? And how hard we must have made her life by sometimes being rude and difficult. Yet she was so astonishingly cool. Mother’s Day is the time to apologize for all the stress we may have caused our moms over the years. On Mother’s Day Celebrate with your Mother! This is the perfect day to celebrate the joys of having a mother. Strive to make Mother’s Day absolutely hassle free for your mother and take on her responsibilities for a day. Pamper her a little on this special day just as she pampers you all year round. Give her a warm hug and a big kiss as you wish her a Happy Mother’s Day! As we salute moms, we should pause and thank them for their love and guidance. They are our first teachers. I would like to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms in West Park and to those who fill the role of mothers. And for those who have taken the reigns to fill those shoes, thank you for your unconditional support!

I also extend a special thought and prayer in memory of the moms who are no longer with us on earth, but remain in our hearts and minds because they have touched our souls. ON MEMORIAL DAY, LET US NEVER FORGET! This month we will also pay tribute to veterans on Memorial Day. We honor those soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who died serving our country. We honor those who fought for us. Peace has meaning the protected will never know. Each soldier who falls is a great tragedy. Though each death is a tragedy, we honor and thank all who served and made the ultimate sacrifice. They gave us our freedom and it behooves us all to be our best selves, out of respect for what they gave us. We look to our veterans for guidance—guidance for the present and guidance for the future. We shouldn’t look at the era in which they toiled and sacrificed as if we were visiting a museum or an archaeological site. We should look at what they actually did and how they did it and, in doing so, honor them by imitating their courage, sacrifice and excellence. Their accomplishments are astonishing and we should learn from them. Our veterans have left us a legacy of freedom. They taught their children and their children’s children the value of sacrifice, hard work, and virtue, the necessary conditions of freedom. They also taught us the love of country and what it means to be a citizen. They have become our teachers. Their words and deeds exemplify human excellence and the values we stand for, and demonstrate the courage necessary to preserve these values. How can the City of West Park honor our veterans? Perhaps we cannot do any better than to call our veterans the Greatest Generation of the greatest country in the world.

Perhaps we should make certain that their stories are told to the young. Perhaps we should try to imitate both their purposes and lives, in both peace and war. Perhaps we should just sincerely thank them for making sure that this land of liberty will continue in strength. Perhaps echo President Abraham Lincoln and say: “Gold is good in its place; but living, brave, patriotic men, are better than gold.” Perhaps we could support the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post #8195 more and the wonderful work they are doing for veterans that call it home. As we remember these brave warriors and their comrades in arms on this Memorial Day, we must look to the future while we remember the past. In today’s world, freedom comes cloaked in uncertainty. America still relies on her sons and daughters to defend her liberty. The cost of independence remains high, but we are willing to pay it. We do not pay it gladly, but we pay it with deep reverence and gratitude to those who have sacrificed their lives for America. We know that in the years to come, more brave souls will sacrifice their lives to preserve our freedom. We should remember to include them in our thoughts and prayers today and every day. In conclusion, to the City of West Park’s honored fallen, we hold you in our highest esteem. You are our heroes! We salute you! We honor you! We live our lives in freedom because of what you gave us! There will never be a time that we do not give you our solemn honor. This and every Memorial Day, we the residents of West Park must never forget the meaning of Memorial Day and remember those proud patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of liberty’s blessings! We are in your debt and we thank you! May God always bestow His blessings upon you! To my beloved West Park residents: Have a Happy Mother’s Day and a blessed Memorial Day!

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April 2011

Never Pay Another Expensive Repair Again

FROM THE DESK OF COMMISSIONER MACK BY COMMISSIONER RITA ‘PEACHES’ MACK

Ly Espinol

M MAs I sit behind my desk reflecting on where we are and where we came from, I am overjoyed to know that through good and bad times, and through ups and downs, we made it through. Sometimes odds have a way of making us stronger. I feel that the City Commission is working well as a team and our force is greater than ever. We are sitting in places where we have never sat and are a part of projects that give us a voice. Residents depend on me to get the job done and I continue to diligently make my voice heard on your behalf about issues that matter a great deal. You have trained me, believed in me, and trusted my judgment. For that I say thank you. I have always been available to hear your concerns – all the more so now that

I can sit down and dialog with you in my office at the new City Hall. It is never too late for your voice to be heard, and I am quick to take action when you share your concerns. It is with a grateful heart that I love and serve this community, the very place where I was born and raised. I had a few tragedies this year, but I held on to my faith that everything has divine order. This term I earned my master’s degree in Educational Leadership and was the first City Commissioner appointed to the Broward County Regional Planning Council, where I can truly be a voice for West Park. Additionally, I was recognized by “Who’s Who of Black South Florida.” Considering my pathway, I believe the knowledge and experience I will gain from these efforts will allow me to better provide the service you deserve from my leadership role in this community. Please do not hesitate to drop by and share what’s on your mind. I look forward to seeing you.

May 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson Opens Office in West Park

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Barbara Buxton, J.D., LL.M. Florida Attorney

Nursing Home Medicaid • Elder Law & Estate Planning Florida Medicaid Planning & Eligibility Asset Protection • Wills, Trusts, Living Wills Powers of Attorney • Guardianships Probate: Estate Administration

Serving Dade, Broward & Palm Beach Counties Tel.: 305.932.2293 Miami-Dade County 954.760.7077 Broward County www.buxtonlaw.com

President Barack Obama and Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-17).

Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-17) is proud to announce the opening of her office in the City of West Park’s City Hall, located at 1965 South State Road 7, West Park, FL

33023. The office will be open the first Monday of every month beginning Monday, May 2, 2011. Her office can be reached by phone at: 954-989-2688.

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Mother s Day Essay Contest and Breakfast By the Parks and Recreation Department Attention Kindergarten to High School Students! Enter to Win the City of West Park s Mother s Day Essay Contest Do you have a story to tell about how great your mother is? In celebration of Mother s Day, we want to hear your story. In 500 words or less, tell us why your mother is the world s best mom! The deadline to submit essays is Monday, May 2 by 5:00pm. Essays should be submitted to:

Mary Saunders Park 4750 SW 21 Street, West Park, FL 33023 or Fax to 954 985-1911 Members of our Education Advisory Committee will select winning essays. Winners will be notified by Wednesday, May 4 and will be expected to attend The City of West Park s Annual Mother s Day Breakfast on S a t u r d a y , M a y 7 f r o m 1 0 a m t o 1 p m a t M a r y S a u n d e r s P a r k .

Guidelines to Enter: Each essay should have the following information on its cover sheet. Child s First Name and Last Name Mailing Address Contact Phone Number Mother s Full Name School Child Attends Teacher s Name Grade

For more information, please contact: Parks and Recreation Department Phone: 954-985-1990 or 954-989-2688

April 2011

May 2011

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Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8195 Celebrates 50th Anniversary

William Frazier, Clarence Pipkins, Mayor Eric Jones, Aaron Cobb, Michael Sharpless and Tony Witherspoon.

Marvin Price, Commander Bobby White, Mayor Eric Jones, and Vice Mayor Felicia Brunson.

The Board of Directors of Visions of Images, Inc. presents a plaque to Commander Bobby White for the VFWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support with programming.

Phillip Davis, Mayor Eric Jones, Stella Brown, Dora Dean and Felix Roberts.

W. Ajibola Balogun, City Manager, Vice Mayor Felicia Brunson, Mayor Eric Jones, County Commissioner Barbara Sharied and Commissioner Sharon Fyffe.

CONGRATULATIONS! From the City of West Park City Commission and Staff

Conchita Espinosa Academy Bringing out the extraordinary in every child

Applications are now available for the K-4 through 8th grade 2011-2012 academic year. New K-4 and K-5 Learning Center. Call for a private visit.

Visit our website and apply online www.conchitaespinosa.com or call 305.227.1149.

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SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS McNicol Middle School Science & PreEngineering Magnet Students Showcase Skills at FAU’s Engineering Week McNicol Middle School students have once again taken learning to the next level. Sixth, seventh and eighth grade pre-engineering student teams spent three weeks learning the laws and principles of motion, forces and energy transformations. Student teams then applied their knowledge and skills to design and build race mousetrap cars. The students recently demonstrated their knowledge, skills and race mousetraps cars during Florida Atlantic University’s Engineering Week, where they squared off with other middle school teams using vehicles propelled by the spring of a mousetrap. All teams were required to have a mousetrap car constructed and running, a blueprint of their car, and a technical report on car construction and operations. Emil Kadhum’s eighth grade team, Red Hornets, beat out the other eighth grade teams with a distance of 11.9 meters, while Krystal Vias’ seventh grade team, June Bug, received the trophy for a dis-

May 2011

EDUCATION CORNER CITY OF WEST PARK OFFERS COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 2011 The City of West Park is proud to offer college scholarships for the 2011 academic year! Scholarships are open to all high school seniors who reside in West Park during their senior year of high school, and will be attending a two- or four-year college or vocational school in the U.S. Scholarships will be awarded, based upon submitting the following items, which will be reviewed by the West Park Education Advisory Committee: • Completed scholarship application • Double spaced essay (see essay topics below) on standard paper size with numbered pages • Two letters of recommendation • Official or unofficial high school transcript (community service hours must be reflected on the transcript Essay topics:

tance of 15.7 meters by a race mouse car. For the second year in a row, the students also brought back the first place trophy in FAU’s STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) banner-making contest. For more information on how you can become involved please contact McNicol Middle School at 754-323-3400.

1. Discuss an issue of local concern. Why is this issue important to you? How do you think it should be addressed? 2. Academic excellence and community service – the importance of each in making my community and/or the world a better place. 3. Share an experience through which you have gained respect for intellectual, social, or cultural differences. Comment on how your personal experiences and achievements would contribute to the diversity of the university you wish to attend. The top applicants will be selected by the Education Advisory Committee. The selection criteria are as follows: • Student must be eligible for graduation with a standard diploma from a high school. • Student must have a minimum 3.0 unweighted cumulative GPA at the time of application • Student must demonstrate community involvement and/or participation in school activities (i.e., sports, student government, journalism, service clubs, band, drama, etc.) • Student must be a West Park resident. Scholarships are to be used for tuition, fees, books, room and board, or other educational expenses owed to the school. Upon notification of receiving a scholarship, the student must provide proof of acceptance and enrollment into a college/university of choice for the 2011-2012 academic year, along with an official certified enrollment form. The scholarship check will be paid/mailed directly to the college/university the student attends. Complete application packets are due by Wednesday, May 11, 2011 and winners will present their entries at a Commission meeting. All application packets must be hand delivered to City Hall, located at 1965 S. State Road 7, West Park, FL 33023 no later than Wednesday, May 11, 2011 by 5:00 pm. For more information, contact City Hall at: 954-989-2688.

NOW OFFERING PRIMAL RAW. SINGLE SOURCE RAW DIETS AND TREATS

Open 7 Days a Week

May 2011

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

FROM THE DESK OF COMMISSIONER FYFFE BY COMMISSIONER SHARON FYFFE

MOne afternoon last week I was driving across the parking lot from the post office to Home Depot when I noticed the new “City of West Park” sign across the top of the building in front of me. I stopped my car, turned the engine off and just sat there and looked. It was a quite a sight, AND IT WAS FOR REAL. After several years, we finally have a city with a home. How nice. So many people worked so hard for this and I know we all feel great about this accomplishment – this milestone. The negotiations for the City Hall, preparation of the space, and the Ribbon Cutting ceremony held on Thursday, April 14, were the result of much hard work by our City Staff and our new City Manager, W. Ajibola Balogun. I am amazed at how smoothly and quietly the transition was from our old offices to the new location. It

was business as usual while workmen were still doing the finishing touches. Our Ribbon Cutting ceremony went without a hitch. Everyone was talking about our beautiful new City Hall! Mr. Balogun, thank you for doing so much to make us such an attractive, fully functional, high-tech City Hall. It is a job well done and a City Hall we will always be proud of. I am looking forward to bringing some cultural arts events to our City. To start with, I presently am displaying two oil paintings in my new office at City Hall. They are both original oil paintings created by West Park artist, Mary Bapty, who is a long time resident of our area. Please stop by and see them. I would like to hear from any other West Park artists who have original artwork they would like to display. Please call me at 954-963-7745. I am hopeful we will soon get together a Cultural Arts Council for our City so we can fully support all the arts and arts lovers here in West Park. Have a pleasant rest of the month. Always call on me for any concerns.

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City of West Park - Stormwater Utility Frequently Asked Questions 1.What is Stormwater? Stormwater is rain that runs off surfaces such as rooftops, paved streets highways, and parking lots into storm drain systems, lakes canals, streams and rivers.

g y g p p g g g g standards and City capital investment, flooding from rain storms has been dramatically reduced; however, trouble spots still remain. 10. What is an NPDES permit?

2. What is Stormwater Utility? Stormwater Utility is a “stand-alone” service unit within the City government which generates revenues through fees for services . The Florida Legislature, through adoption of section 403.0893, Florida Statues, specifically authorizes and encourages local governments to provide stormwater management services as a utility function for which service charges may be levied. A stormwater utility is responsible for funding the operation, construction, maintenance of stormwater system, for stormwater system master planning and improvement and National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. 3.Why do I have to pay a fee to the stormwater Utility? Rainwater is either absorbed into porous surfaces like grass, forest, farm fields, vacant parcel of land, and other areas of “open ground”, or the rainwater collects on non-porous (impervious) surfaces like streets, built-out vacant lot, and parking lots. It is these impervious areas where rainwater collects that is the challenge for stormwater planners. A developed vacant lot creates impact to needed drainage systems in the area, because of the removed porous surface. You also pay a fee to the stormwater utility because of the silt, oil, gasoline, fertilizers, pesticides and other litter that is carried by the stormwater to the drainage systems that have been developed to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall. The stormwater utility funds a wide variety of activities and programs that reduce flooding and pollution.

4. What is an impervious area?

The Clean Water Act prohibits anybody from discharging "pollutants" through a "point source" into a "water of the United States" unless they have an NPDES permit. The permit will contain limits on what you can discharge, monitoring and reporting requirements, and other provisions to ensure that the discharge does not hurt water quality or people's health. In essence, the permit translates general requirements of the Clean Water Act into specific provisions tailored to the operations of each person discharging pollutants. 11. What is the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Stormwater Program? Polluted stormwater runoff is a leading cause of impairment to the nearly 40 percent of surveyed U.S. water bodies which do not meet water quality standards. Over land or via storm sewer systems, polluted runoff is discharged, often untreated, directly into local water bodies. When left uncontrolled, this water pollution can result in the destruction of fish, wildlife, and aquatic life habitats; a loss in aesthetic value; and threats to public health due to contaminated food, drinking water supplies, and recreational waterways. Mandated by Congress under the Clean Water Act, the NPDES Stormwater Program is a comprehensive twophased national program for addressing the non-agricultural sources of stormwater discharges which adversely affect the quality of our nation's waters. The program uses the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting mechanism to require the implementation of controls designed to prevent harmful pollutants from being washed by stormwater runoff into local water bodies

12.What is polluted runoff? Water from rain and it either seeps into the ground or “runs off” to lower areas, making its way into streams, lakes and other water bodies. On its way, runoff water can pick up and carry many substances that pollute water.

An impervious area is any part or parcel of land that has been changed by actions of persons to reduce the land’s natural ability to soak up or hold rainfall. This includes areas that have been cleared, graded, paved, graveled, compacted or covered with structures. This excludes lawn areas, landscape areas, and gardens or farming (agricultural) areas.

Some - like pesticides, fertilizers, oil and soap – are harmful in any quantity. Others – like sediment from construction, bare soil, or agricultural land, or pet waste, grass clippings and leaves – can harm creeks, rivers and lakes in sufficient quantities.

5. How much is the fee?

In addition to rain, various human activities like watering, car washing, and malfunctioning septic tank can also put water onto the land surface. Here, it can also create runoff that carries pollutants to lakes.

Each single-family parcel will be charged a fee. A typical West Park resident lot is considered one Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) of impervious area and will pay $3.50 per month or $ 21.00 per 6 months, or $ 42.00 per year. Non-residential developed parcels will be charged based on how many ERU’s or off run is generated from the parcel, at $3.50 per ERU, per month. 6.How is the stormwater fee calculated? The City uses an engineering approach to determine its fee structure. The City obtained the size of a given property that is “impervious” to rainwater and calculates the fee based on the figure that way. The stormwater utility is charging a fee based on the runoff generated from those impervious surfaces (like rooftops and parking lots), since this runoff is what the stormwater utility is going to have to handle. The City conducted a statistical analysis to establish on Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) for residential properties. The value of the ERU is set at 1, 351 square feet and incurs a charge of $3.50 per month for residential properties. The $3.50 a month stormwater utility fee is one of the lowest rates in Florida.

Commercial, industrial and non-residential properties are calculated using the same ERU concept, but account for the exact footage of a facility and all impervious surfaces when determining the total monthly stormwater utility fee. To determine the stormwater utility fee for non-residential properties, take the total square footage of the property’s impervious surfaces, divide by 1,351 (size of one ERU) and multiply by $3.50 (the cost of one ERU). As an example, a non-residential property with a total impervious area of 4,053 square feet would pay $10.50 per month in stormwater utility fee {(4,053/1,351)* $3.50 =$ 10.50}. 7. Is this a tax and why is my stormwater utility fee on my water bill ? The charge is a service fee, not a tax. In addition in a effort to reduce overall costs for the processing of bills and postage costs, we asked the county to include the stormwater utility fee in the water bill. The cost savings and greater efficiency of operation are passed on to all stormwater utility customers. Customers without water accounts receive their stormwater utility bill separately.

Polluted runoff generally happens anywhere people use or alter the land. For example, in developed areas, none of the water that falls on hard surfaces like roofs, driveways, parking lots or roads can seep into the ground. These impervious surfaces create large amounts of runoff that picks up pollutants. The runoff flows from gutters and storm drains to streams. Runoff not only pollutes' but erodes lakes and stream banks. The mix of pollution and eroded dirt muddies the water and causes problems downstream.

13.What can I do to reduce the amount of stormwater pollution I contribute? If you own a car, maintain it so it does not leak oil or other fluids. Be sure to wash it on the grass or at a car wash so the dirt and soap do not flow down the driveway and into the nearest storm drain. If you own a yard, do not over fertilize your grass. Never apply fertilizers or pesticides before a heavy rain. If fertilizer falls onto driveways or sidewalks, sweep it up instead of hosing it away. Mulch leaves and grass clippings and place leaves in the yard at the curb, not in the street. Doing this keeps leaves out of the gutter, where they can wash into the nearest storm drain. Turn your gutter downspouts away from hard surfaces, seed bare spots in your yard to avoid erosion and consider building a rain garden in low-lying areas of your lawn If you have a septic system, maintain it properly by having it pumped every three to five years. If it is an older system, be sure it can still handle the volume placed on it today. Never put chemicals down septic systems, they can harm the system and seep into the groundwater. Pet owners should pick up after their pets and dispose of pet waste in the garbage. Keep lawn and household chemicals tightly sealed and in a place where rain cannot reach them. Dispose of old or unwanted chemicals at household hazardous waste collections sites or events. Never put anything in a storm drain. Don’t litter.

8.How long will you be charging me this fee? The fee will be collected in perpetuity to ensure adequate maintenance of the City’s drainage systems, within rightof-ways. 9.What are the problems with Stormwater? Pollution: Every time it rains, the rainwater that is not absorbed into the ground or evaporated (called runoff) will carry contaminants from lawns, streets, buildings and parking lots and deposits them directly into our City through the underground storm sewer system. Better pollution control and treatment is needed to reduce the amount of contamination flowing into our local water bodies.

Flooding: Early stormwater management practices focused on preventing flooding. Because of rigorous design

WEST PARK THE CITY OF POSITIVE PROGRESSION

1965 S. State Road 7 • West Park, FL 33023 P: 954-989-2688 • F: 954-989-2684

May 2011

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Stormwater Maintenance Program:

Preventing Flooding BY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES DEPARTMENT

As part of the City of West Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ongoing commitment to managing stormwater and improving the quality of our surface water while preventing flooding, Envirowaste has been contracted to provide citywide storm drainage system cleaning services. We ask residents and businesses to please cooperate with Envirowaste by moving their vehicles from swale areas to allow access to the drainage structures when required. For any questions regarding our storm drain cleaning program or our stormwater management program, please call City of West Park at 954.989.2688.

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May 2011

Looking for a FUN summer day camp?

Announcing CAMP B.R.A.V.E.R.Y. SUMMER PROGRAM! Building Responsible Awesome Vital Ecstatic Respectable Youth Camp B.R.A.V.E.R.Y. is the annual summer camp provided by the Parks and Recreation Department. Camp B.R.A.V.E.R.Y. stands for Building Responsible Awesome Vital Ecstatic Respectable Youth and that is exactly what our summer camp accomplishes! This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s camp will be an instruction based with an emphasis on reading, language arts, math, and science and will include breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks as well as paid field trips. The camp will also include cultural arts programming (singing, dance, public speaking, and acting), arts & crafts, social skills building, physical education, and nutrition classes. Depending on your household income your children may be able to participate at no charge. This is made possible for Broward County residents through funding from the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services Council and the State of Florida Department of Education. Space is limited! Registration has already begun. Forms need to be completed as soon as possible to reserve a spot for your child. Registration packages can be picked up, e-mailed, or faxed to you upon request. Staff will be available from 9:00am to 7:00pm, Monday to Friday until all of the spots are taken. HURRY so you can ensure that your child has a fulfilling summer in a wonderful environment as part of Camp B.R.A.V.E.R.Y. For more information, call Parks and Recreation at 954-985-1990.

May 2011

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Building a Quality Mixed-Use District: SR7/U.S. 441 Redevelopment BY SARAH SINATRA GOULD, AICP Planning Department Manager

From February 5, 2005 through February 11, 2005, residents and business owners of West Park participated in a community visioning process known as the Miramar/West Park Strategic Master Plan Charrette series. The visioning process was conducted to work with the community on plans to improve the economic and aesthetic conditions along the SR 7/US 441 corridor. One goal was to increase mobility along the corridor through enhanced transportation and land use coordination. As a major north-south transit route, the SR 7/US 441 corridor has the county’s highest transit ridership levels and is currently designated by Broward County for Rapid Bus or Bus Rapid Transit service in the near future. Longer term projections indicate that light-rail service may be provided along this designated premium transit corridor. The existing land use designations along the corridor provide limited opportunity for transit-supportive development. Therefore, a new land use category was proposed and was adopted by the City in 2007. The Transit Oriented Corridor land use category provides the City with the necessary mix of land uses, density and design that will encourage the creation of an environment that will promote transit usage and a sense of place currently lacking along the corridor. The uses are consistent with the Urban Land Institute (ULI) regional Market Study conducted for the corridor and the Charrette master plan. Plan: • Beautify SR 7 adding landscaping, decorative street lights, bus stops, benches, trash cans, signage, etc. • Create a town center along SR7/US441 with retail, restaurants, offices, and residences • Build mixed-use buildings with park-

for pedestrian orientation. Buildings will front the street with minimal setbacks, creating continuity of streetscape interest through continuous storefronts and direct visual connections to building entries. Architecture will also be used to create attractive landmarks and gateways to the development. Bus shelters and limited surface parking will encourage the transit environment and support transit usage. Furthermore, the buildings, rather than the parking, will front the street. This will also encourage residents, employees and visitors to utilize transit. Current Development Plan

ing in the rear along main roadways Build 3- to 6-story buildings wherever possible with entrance features • Blocks of buildings with the mass located towards the street with side and rear spaces for courtyards and public spaces • Setbacks are landscape buffers with shade trees for transit amenities The Transit Oriented Corridor land use category encourages redevelopment along SR7/US-441, in the form of 575,000 square feet of commercial, 500,000 square feet of office, 200 hotel rooms and 1,500 residential units. Along with this future development, the plan includes amenities to serve residents, visitors and employees within the development and encourage a pedestrianfriendly, transit-oriented environment including benches, street furniture, shade structures, landscaping, light fixtures, trash receptacles and bicycle parking. This may also include other amenities within public places such as plazas that include fountains, sculptures and green space. Streets will •

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include pedestrian and transit amenities such as street trees, bus shelters and information kiosks to serve the residents and employees within. The scale, organization and style of architectural components will contribute to a sense of place for this urban village. At the street, buildings will be proportioned

The Transit Oriented Corridor land use and zoning designations were employed to prepare the State Road 7 corridor for redevelopment. The area included in this plan is 88 acres made up of 64 auto oriented businesses, 10 pawn shops, 9 restaurants, 3 office buildings and a post office. Since the development program was initiated, the City has approved approximately 130,000 square feet of commercial at the corner of State Road 7 and Pembroke Road, which recently became the home of the new City Hall.

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Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Special Meeting - April 14, 2011 Hundreds joined the festivities at our Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Special Commission Meeting on April 14, 2011 to celebrate the opening of the new City Hall and Commission Chamber, located at 1965 South State Road 7, West Park. Thank you to all who attended and participated!

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HOORAY FOR GOOMBAY! BY THE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Remember when people came from miles around to the annual Goombay Festival held at Mary Saunders Park? Well, it’s back! This year, the Goombay Festival promises to be BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER! Come join us on Saturday, May 21 at Mary Saunders Park, 4750 SW 21 Avenue, West Park, for the 2011 Goombay Festival! The event will feature the crowning of

Mr. and Ms. Goombay (fundraiser participation), the Junkanoo Band, great food and entertainment for the whole family. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy the “NEW” Goombay Festival, which will be reminiscent of the “good ole days”. For more information on how to secure vendor space, register to be a sponsor, or just join in on the fun, please contact: Commissioner Rita Mack (954) 889-4156; Ms. Sheila Powell (954) 274-2725; or the City of West Park (954) 989-2688.

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Fire Prevention in the Workplace FROM THE FIRE DEPARTMENT The Broward Sheriff’s Office, Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services, Fire Marshal’s Bureau provided workplace fire safety to the staff at the South Regional Family Success Center in West Park on April 15th. Fire safety is everyone’s job in the workplace. In recent years, workplace fires have cost businesses more than $2.3 billion dollars and injured more than 5,000 workers across the country. To help reduce fires in your workplace, here are a few fire safety tips: Housekeeping: Make sure you keep your work station clutter free. Make sure all exits and stairways are free from debris. Appliance awareness: Turn off or unplug all appliances including coffee makers, hot

plates, and burners at the end of each day. Keep heat generating pieces of equipment such as photocopiers and computer terminals away from any combustibles. Never stack books or papers on top of this equipment. Electrical Safety: Electrical fires can start due to damaged electrical cords, extension cords or faulty wiring. Prior to use, always examine equipment for damages. Do not overload the electrical circuits. Never run any electrical cords where they can be stepped on, where equipment can flatten them, or under a rug or carpet. Through fire prevention, education, and preparation you are helping to create a fire safe workplace for employees and visitors. If you would like to schedule a public education presentation in your workplace, please contact our office at: 954-831-8210.

Put a Lid on Kitchen Fires FROM THE FIRE DEPARTMENT The Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Rescue West Park District personnel responded to an accidental kitchen fire midday on April 13. The resident occupying the home at the time of the incident was deep fat frying on the stove when the oil bubbled over and ignited, injuring the resident. In an effort to reduce kitchen fires the Broward Sheriff’s Office, Fire Marshal’s Bureau would like to share the following kitchen safety tips: • Don’t leave cooking unattended. • Roll up your sleeves when cooking, or wear snug or short sleeved clothing • Establish a No-Kid Zone around the stove or barbeque grill.

• Put pots and pans on the back burners and turn their handles inward so they don’t get knocked over. • Always use heavy oven mitts and pot holders when handling hot pots, pans or utensils. Use an oven stick to pull out or push in the oven rack. • Never hold a child and hot liquids at the same time. • Don’t leave hot items, such as liquids or foods, at the edge of the table or counter. • Remember foods that come out of the microwave can be very hot. Let them stand for a few minutes before handling. If you would like more information on fire prevention in the home and educational programs available, please contact our office at: 954-831-8210.

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RECENT CITY EVENTS West Park Welcomes New Police Chief

Nichole Anderson was recently sworn in as West Park’s new Police Chief, becoming the Broward Sheriff’s Office’s first female African-American police chief. Since November 2010, Anderson served as interim chief for the City of West

Park and the Town of Pembroke Park. Chief Anderson, a graduate of Dillard High School, joined the Broward Sheriff’s Office in 1996 as a road patrol deputy after working as a Florida Highway Patrol trooper for two years.

CONGRATULATIONS! From the West Park City Commission and Staff.

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City of West Park Recognizes Older Americans Month

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May 2011

Railroad that ‘went to sea’ to mark 100th anniversary BY ANDY NEWMAN

N E W S

In January 1912, the first Oversea Railway train rolled from the Florida mainland through the Florida Keys to Key West, forever changing the face of many of the previously isolated islands by connecting them with the mainland and each other. A celebration to honor the historic rail- miles out into open water, requiring trailroad, lauded as the most unique railway in blazing construction techniques and the world upon its completion, has begun in Herculean efforts. At several points in the the Keys. Events are to culminate Jan. 22, construction process, more than 4,000 men 2012, the 100th anniversary were working on the project. of the inaugural train’s arrival. Flagler gambled nearly all of Conceived by Standard Oil his wealth on the venture, tycoon Henry Flagler, conwhich was so daunting and struction on the rail line unproven that many outbegan in 1905, motivated by siders called it “Flagler’s an announcement that the Folly.” Panama Canal would be Officially named the built. Flagler thought Key Florida East Coast Railway’s West had the potential to be Key West Extension, the line an important port and trade became known as the route with Cuba and Latin Oversea Railway and was America, as well as a vital sometimes referred to as “the supply stop for ships entering eighth wonder of the world.” or exiting the Panama Canal. The bridges and viaducts The railroad’s track Henry Flagler connecting the Keys, includ––––––––––––––––– stretched more than 100 ing the landmark Seven Mile

Trains traveled from the Florida mainland to Key West on the Overseas Railway. (Historical images provided by Monroe County Library)

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Bridge at Marathon, were regarded as an engineering marvel. For more than two decades after the railroad’s 1912 completion, it carried passengers to the Keys and Key West, affording them a breathtaking sense of steaming across the open ocean. The Oversea Railway’s heyday abruptly ended when a portion of the line was destroyed in a 1935 hurricane. Less than three years later, a narrow highway for automobiles replaced the tracks. Today, many of the original railroad bridges still can be seen alongside the bridges that support the modern Overseas Highway, the contemporary connection from mainland Florida through the Keys. Other reminders of the historic railroad include Pigeon Key, a five-acre island that lies beneath the Old Seven Mile Bridge at Marathon. A base camp for workers during construction of the original railroad bridge, the tiny island now features carefully restored structures and a museum dedicated to the railway and its builders. Celebrations commemorating the Oversea Railway’s centennial year are being organized throughout the Keys.

Planned elements include history tours showcasing Flagler sites, bicycling expeditions, educational presentations and explorations of Pigeon Key — all leading up to the 100th anniversary of the first train’s arrival in Key West. Celebration highlights include “Flagler’s Speedway to Sunshine,” an exhibition and special event series that already has begun at the Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House in Old Town Key West. The exhibition includes a re-created Florida East Coast railcar, a scale replica of a section of the Seven Mile Bridge, vintage footage of the journey from Pigeon Key to Key West, a film recounting Flagler’s story and the arrival of the first train, rare artifacts including a conductor’s uniform and railroad worker’s tool chest, and memorabilia that brings alive the fascinating story of the railroad that went to sea. A comprehensive website focused on the Oversea Railway centennial, featuring a detailed schedule of events, is being established at <www.FlaglerKeys100.com>. For more information about the Florida Keys & Key West, visit <www.flakeys.com>.

May 2011

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MDC signs 10 softball players to scholarships for 2011-12 BY PÍA CRUZALEGUI

Miami Dade College has announced the signing to a national letter of intent for six Miami-Dade County players and four from Central Florida. The 10 new high school players will be part of the new 2012 softball team. The powerful squad includes: Caroline Otero of Gulliver Preparatory, Alli Schnaidar of Florida Christian, Ellen Morgan of Miami Southridge, Ericka Acevedo of Doral Academy, Kayla Ogle and Megan Lee of South Dade, and Carmen Nadal and Nicole Osterman of Osceola High School and Hashel Figueroa of University High School in Orlando, as well as Paris Prusak of Bishop Verot High School in Lee County. The new 2011-12 team will bring a powerful offense and defense to Miami Dade College’s Lady Sharks as these new players presently lead their high schools softball programs. On 2010, Otero was Second Team All Dade selection, Schnaider was First Team All Dade County, Morgan earned All Dade Second Team selection, Nadal and Osterman earned First Team All County selection, and Paris Prusak was First Team All Lee County.

Acevedo earned an All Dade First Team selection in 2009 and 2010, and Third Team All State in 2010. Lee received Second Team All Dade County Honors in 2010. Ogle is a 2010 All Dade First Team selection and Figueroa played in the Puerto Rico Junior National Team. Since 2006, 15 players received the NJCAA-NFCA All American Honors and five players received the Academic All American Honors. In 2009 the MDC Lady Sharks were ranked sixth in the National Fastpitch Coaches Association “Girls Got Game” academic achievement with a GPA of 3.537. In 2010 they were No. 23 in the same category. As a result many Miami Dade College softball players continued their college education with softball scholarships at universities across the country including University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Fresno State in California, Nova Southeastern University and Marshall University, among others. MDC’s athletic teams have earned a total of 33 NJCAA titles, including 13 in women’s sports. Most recently, the college’s softball team became national champions and won the 2010 national ladies fast-pitch softball championship.

www.communityne wspaper s.com

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May 2011

Tenor Russell Thomas returns to Miami in recital on May 14 BY REBECCA STANIER-SHULMAN

Miami native Russell Thomas returns to the concert stage in a recital accompanied by Orchestra Miamiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artistic director Elaine Rinaldi at the piano. In his first appearance in Miami since his triumphant win at the Francisco ViĂąas Competition in Barcelona, Spain, Thomas and Rinaldi will present a program of music by Beethoven, Griffes, Verdi, Donaudy, Tosti, Britten and Vaughan Williams. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I first met Russell when he was a student at the New World School for the Arts,â&#x20AC;? Rinaldi said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have taken great pleasure in watching Russell grow as an artist, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m thrilled to be able to bring him home to perform for the Miami public.â&#x20AC;? The recital will be on Saturday, May 14, 8 p.m., at the First Presbyterian Church of Miami, 609 Brickell Ave. Tickets are priced at $40 for priority seating, $30 for general admission seating, $20 for seniors and $10 for students. A special reception with the artists will be held immediately following the recital in the Fellowship Hall, proceeds of which ($20 per person) go to the benefit of Orchestra Miami. Tickets for the recital and reception can be purchased online through Orchestra Miamiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website (www.OrchestraMiami.org) or by calling 305-274-2103. This recital is one of the events celebrating 115 years of service from the First Presbyterian Church of Miami (www.fpcmiami.org). A native of Miami, Thomas quickly is establishing himself as one of the most

exciting vocal and dramatic talents on the international opera and concert scene, most recently as the First-Prize winner of the prestigious â&#x20AC;&#x153;ViĂąas Competitionâ&#x20AC;? in Barcelona (First Prize, Audience Favorite and Best Tenor) and at the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Competizione dellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Operaâ&#x20AC;? in Dresden. He has sung at many of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most important opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera (Tamino in Magic Flute; Steuerman in Der Fliegende Hollander; Forresto in Attila; Andres in Wozzeck), Oper Frankfurt (Faust in Berliozâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Damnation of Faust), Welsh National Opera (Pinkerton in Madame Butterfly; Tamino in Magic Flute). Conductor Rinaldi is fast making her mark among the ranks of rising young American conductors. Critics have called her performances â&#x20AC;&#x153;brilliantâ&#x20AC;? and her interpretative work â&#x20AC;&#x153;impeccable.â&#x20AC;? As founder and artistic director of Orchestra Miami, Rinaldi has brought a new level of professionalism and quality to the local arts scene. In addition to her work with Orchestra Miami, Rinaldi is much in demand as a recitalist and vocal coach. Founded in 2006 by Rinaldi, Orchestra Miami quickly has established itself as an important part of Miamiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vibrant cultural community. In its brief history, Orchestra Miami has presented the finest in classical symphonic, Latin jazz and opera, with some of the most important and recognized names in the world of music. For more information about this recital and the orchestra, visit the website at <www.OrchestraMiami.org>.

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May 2011

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CITY DEPARTMENTS DIRECTORY Mayor Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.889.4153 Vice Mayor Brunson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.889.4164 Commissioner Dorsett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.889.4163 Commissioner Fyffe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.963.7745 Commissioner Mack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.889.4156 City Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.989.2688 City Attorney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.768.9770 City Clerk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.989.2688 Building & Permits Dept. . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.989.2688 Business Tax Licenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.989.2688 Public Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.964.0284 Trash/Recycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.964.0284 McTyre Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.964.0284 Mary Saunders Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.985.1990 Code Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.766.2715 Zoning Dept. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.266.6495 Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.689.4804 Police Dept./BSO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.765.4321 Fire Dept./BSO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .954.831.8210

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Redesigned Kia Sportage has more power, technology Ron Beasley LET’S TALK CARS The Kia Sportage always has been a nifty little CUV, but the 2011 version is simply a delight; it’s pleasing to look at and fun to drive. The all-new Sportage retains the functionality and versatility of the previous model, but has been repackaged into a sleek, modern and bold style, with new proportions and a completely new look. It was recognized as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and received top ratings for front, side, rollover and rear impact protection. Beautifully redesigned to be longer, wider and lower, Sportage now has a more flowing silhouette. It also has increased performance and efficiency, comfort and convenience, and the latest automotive technologies. With a high beltline, sweeping angles and more pronounced wheel flares, the new Sportage has a spearing shoulder line that visually connects the headlights and taillights. From the side, the pronounced C pillar gives the vehicle a sense of solidity and bal-

ance, while the front end has the new face of Kia with the signature grille, sculpted hood, swept back headlights, tabbed grille outline and distinctive lower fascia. Sportage exterior design flows seamlessly into the interior with an inviting and comfortable ambience and many technology features, including the signature three-pod instrument cluster set prominently within the dash. Available in four trims — Base, LX, EX and SX — pricing for the compact CUV starts at $18,295, with standard convenience features including air conditioning, power windows, door locks and mirrors, Sirius Satellite Radio, MP3 connectivity and Bluetooth4 wireless technology, along with the options of a panoramic sunroof, navigation, push-button start, rear camera display, LED daytime running lights and an air-cooled driver’s seat. Under the hood, Sportage has more power with a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder 176 hp engine and improved fuel economy (21/28 mpg). Base has 16-inch alloy wheels matched with 215/70R16 low-rolling resistance silica tires, body-color door handles and electrically adjustable side mirrors; and a six-speed manual transmission ($18,295). LX has side mirror LED turn signal indicators, keyless entry and tinted glass. Comes standard with air conditioning, power windows, 12-volt power outlets in the front and

New Kia Sportage is longer, wider and lower; has a more fluid silhouette.

cargo areas, power side mirrors with integrated LED indicators, tilt-adjustable steering wheel, keyless entry with panic alarm and multi-way adjustable front seats. Stylishly cloth seats are comfortable, while rear seats split and fold 60/40 for cargo needs ($20,295). EX has a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, telescopic steering wheel, illuminated vanity mirrors, automatic folding rear seats, a dual-zone temperature control air-conditioner with ionized filtration, illuminated and cooled glove box, and a power dri-

ver’s seat with lumbar support for additional comfort and support. Also adds 18-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, a rear spoiler and chrome body trim and door handles ($23,295). SX is the top-of-the-line and has Kia’s efficient and powerful new 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine ($25,795). Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to <LetsTalkCars@aol.com>.

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HELP WANTED

Planning & organizing medical services

Subject Areas Taught:

15 Years Experience Shane Smoleny 786-367-6713

HELP WANTED

TUTORING SERVICES SAT Prep (math), ACT Prep (math), GRE Prep (math), Algebra I & I , Geometry, Calculus, Statistics, Physics, College Physics, Chemistry, Organizational Skill, Memory, Technical Writing

HELP WANTED

# # )" # ) % &$%! # $ #' $ $ &$% $" $

SERVICES

HELP WANTED

Prepare buss. activity report & annual budgets.

FRONT DESK SALON ASSOCIATE - PALMETTO BAY

SERVICES

HELP WANTED

EXPERIENCED HAIR STYLIST/COLORIST - PALMETTO BAY

% $ $!& $ *!& %,$ % %! % # % ! ( $" *! !

HELP WANTED

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HELP WANTED

May 2011

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May 2011

FLOWERS ARE NICE

FREE KITCHEN APPLIANCES

ARE BETTER

Come in to any Best Buy® in the Miami/Ft. Lauderdale area on Mother’s Day, May 8th, 2-4PM. We’re celebrating moms with:

GREAT PRIZES

IN-STORE

DEMONSTRATIONS and tech tips

KitchenAid Food Processor $

4000 Best Buy® Gift Card PLUS

Free Coca-Cola beverages2

A special gift for Mom2

Visit BestBuy.com/storelocator to find a Best Buy store near you. 1

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. PURCHASE WILL NOT ENHANCE CHANCES OF WINNING. Open and offered only to legal residents of the 50 U.S./D.C. (excluding P.R.), who are 18 or older (except residents of AL and NE, who must be 19 or older) at time of entry. Void in P.R. and where prohibited. PARTICIPATING BEST BUY STORE ADDRESSES: Ft. Lauderdale, 2829 N. Federal Hwy, Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Sawgrass, 12301 W Sunrise Blvd, Plantation, FL; West Kendall, 12495 SW 88th Street, Miami, FL; Tropicaire, 7751 Bird Rd, Miami, FL; Hialeah, 4001 W 20th Ave, Hialeah, FL; Cutter Ridge, 19191 S Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL; Dadeland, 8450 S Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL; Aventura, 21035 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL; Pembroke Pines, 11450 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines, FL; Coral Springs, 650 N University Dr, Coral Springs, FL; Florida City, 33590 S Dixie Hwy, Florida City, FL; Margate, 3300 NW 62nd Ave, Margate, FL; Miami Beach, 1131 5th St, Miami, FL; Doral, 10760 NW 17th St, Miami, FL; Pinecrest, 11905 S. Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL. ENTRY PERIOD – START DATE/TIME AND END DATE/TIME: 2:00 p.m. local time on May 8th, 2011 to 4:00 p.m. local time on May 8th, 2011 HOW TO ENTER: Complete an official entry form, while supplies last, and deposit in the entry box. Limit one (1) entry per person per day during the Entry Period. A separate random drawing for First Prize will be held at each participating store from among all eligible entries received at that store. Each participating store will award one (1) First Prize. A separate random drawing for Grand Prize will be held on or about 5/12/11 from among all eligible entries received at all participating stores. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Winners need not be present to win. PRIZES: Grand Prize – 1: $4000 Best Buy Gift Card ; ARV: $4000 each. First Prize – (1 per store; 15 total): KitchenAid Chef’s Chopper Series Food Processor; ARV: $49.99 each. Total ARV of all prizes: $4749.85. Subject to Official Rules available at participating stores during the Entry Period. Sponsor: Best Buy Stores, L.P., 7601 Penn Av. S., Richfield, MN 55423. Beverages and gifts available while supplies last. © 2011 BBY Solutions, Inc. All Rights Reserved.