Lauderhill Spotlight - Summer 2023

A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR KEN THURSTON

As we head into graduation season, I reflect on my own memorable graduations from high school and college. Those milestones marked pivotal moments in my life. I have always believed the City should support and encourage our residents, young and old, to get as much training and education as possible. The better educated our citizens are, the more they excel. Lauderhill has one high school — Lauderhill 6–12 STEM-MED — within its 8.43 square mile borders, and that school serves students from 6th grade through 12th grade.

This will be the ninth graduating class from Lauderhill 6-12. The City has given a “book scholarship” to each graduating class for those graduates who pursue college degrees, attend trade schools, or seek professional certifications post high school. I am happy to report that the City will do the same for the Class of 2023. Our City Commission wants to encourage our graduates to continue striving for as much education, training and “real world” experience as possible. This will give them the confidence to set high goals for themselves, and will empower them to be successful as they pursue these goals.

In order for our students to be successful, we need passionate and dedicated educators. For the last decade, my office

has sponsored the Annual Teacher of the Year Appreciation Awards to honor each elementary-high school Broward County Teacher of the Year that serves Lauderhill students. We will again celebrate these exceptional educators on May 11th at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC) with

dinner, trophies and special gift baskets filled with items and gift cards donated by area businesses. This is our way of showing our exemplary educators how much we appreciate their hard work developing our children, and teaching them to become productive, successful and thriving citizens.

VICE MAYOR’S MESSAGE SARAI “RAY” MARTIN

As many of you know, I am a Commissioner that believes in connecting with our residents and ensuring I understand your needs and expectations. I like to ensure our constituents are well informed and connected with City leadership, so we can develop resolutions together.

NEIGHBORS COMMUNITY BBQ SERIES

I have initiated a BBQ series that rotates through the communities in our City. They are held in partnership with United Lauderhill Community Association and the North West Lauderhill Neighbors Association. These community BBQs are intended to bring community members together for a fun and casual event, helping to build a sense of belonging and connectedness among us. Community leaders have the opportunity to interact with residents in a relaxed and informal setting, listening to your concerns, and gaining valuable feedback on your collective issues. These leaders are then better equipped to make

informed decisions that benefit the community as a whole.

A community BBQ is an excellent way to break down barriers and encourage interaction, promoting a sense of unity. Through these events, we can form new friendships, strengthen existing relationships and gain a sense of pride in our neighborhoods.

PROPERTY ASSESSED CLEAN ENERGY (PACE) LOANS

Has anyone knocked at your door to offer "free" loans for storm windows, a new roof, and AC? Do you know what a PACE loan is and how it affects your property with regard to selling or equity for your legacy? I am preparing to host an upcoming workshop on PACE loans.

In this Spotlight Issue, I will share some pros and cons. Please let me know if this is a topic that you would like more information on.

Continue reading on page 7 R

DENISE D. GRANT

LAUDERHILL, A CITY OF PURPOSE!

Leadership is an important factor in the progression and stability of a City. As your Commissioner, I am positioned to lead effectively with compassion, knowledge and understanding. Lauderhill is a sustained and resilient community which continuously adds value and yields benefits.

Value is a core competence and in this sense encompasses a range of applications, including adding value to prosperity as well as to people, making Lauderhill truly a premier community of choice. Added value is expressed in land, revenues, infrastructure, businesses, as well as in education, employment, health, community services, recreation, etc. Adding value comprehensively is what Lauderhill’s vision is based on, and is a keystone of our plan. We aim to have:

● Dynamic Stability that enables our community to confront the continued dynamic growth of the region and technological change with confidence and a sense of opportunity.

● A Prosperous Economy that sustains the perception and reality of prosperity across our entire community, positively impacting all the people of Lauderhill, and that is broadly – if not uniformly – shared.

● Distinctive Development that integrates our varied and diverse focal points, business districts, centers, corridors, and

neighborhoods to provide a feeling of coherence without compromising uniqueness.

● Recognized Leadership in local governance that stimulates excellence and serves to unify the people of Lauderhill in support of best practices for conducting public endeavors.

As the year progresses, the City will continue to advance initiatives and programs that will enhance the lives and wellbeing of our residents. As your Commissioner, I will remain diligent in well-doing for our community. As you’re aware, I’m always accessible. Please contact me at 954-5045193 with questions and/or concerns.

Your Commissioner, Denise D. Grant

MELISSA P. DUNN

Visiting some of our brave men and women who protect and serve the City of Lauderhill with Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.

Joined the team at the Florida Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials Conference.

Maintaining Community Relationships

Lauderhill’s First Faith-Based Business Conference

Meeting the Hibiscus Girls Leadership Academy where young high school girls dream of creating a better life for themselves.

Showing kindness, no matter how small, can have a ripple effect in our community.

Welcome reception for Lauderhill Shines Cohort 6, hosted by Island Sips Juice and Salads from Cohort 2.

Honoring all of the magnificent mentors in our City, and January was proclaimed as National Mentoring Month.

Meeting our State Representative, Daryl Campbell, in Tallahassee.

COMMISSIONER'S MESSAGE

LAWRENCE “JABBOW” MARTIN

As one of your Commissioners, I remain humble and committed to serving the residents of Lauderhill. With new opportunities arising around our City, we encourage you to stay connected by registering at www.lauderhill-fl.gov/connect for all of the City’s latest improvement projects, social events and community efforts.

The Quarterly Challenge: If you see a City employee doing something to make our City better, acknowledge that employee and let us know!

#TheCommish #Lauderhillstrong

Let’s see what we’ve been up to and what’s to come:

Legislative Days in Tallahassee Lobbying for over 2 million dollars for our City!

Meeting with Dr. Stephen Reeves Buchanan, Pastor of New Season Worship Center

Local Business Bicycle Shop Owner

Youth of the Boys & Girls Club Honor Roll Ceremony

of Lauderhill

FROM THE CHIEF OF POLICE CONSTANCE STANLEY

The Lauderhill Police Department has Victim Advocates that are here to assist you if you have been the victim of a crime and need additional assistance. Victim Advocates are available to advise you of your rights, answer your questions, and give you referrals to services that you may need. If you have been the victim of a crime, you may also be eligible for financial benefits through the Office of the Florida Attorney General’s Victim Compensation Program. These benefits may include reimbursement for lost wages, funeral or medical expenses, dental treatment, mental health counseling, or emergency relocation assistance. Victim Advocates are also available to assist in guiding you to obtain a restraining order or get out of an unhealthy relationship.

Joe Scott, Supervisor of Elections

All Vote-By-Mail Requests submitted prior to the Nov 8, 2022 General Election have expired and will need to be renewed after every General Election cycle

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 6, 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 6, 2022

Joe Scott, Supervisor of Elections

115 S. Andrews Ave, Rm. 102 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 (954) 357-VOTE  www.browardvotes. gov

115 S. Andrews Ave, Rm. 102 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 (954) 357-VOTE  www.browardvotes gov

Broward County, Florida – Due to Senate Bill 90, an Election Administration bill revising certain sections of Florida’s Election Law, ALL Vote-By-Mail (VBM) requests submitted prior to the November 8, 2022 General Election expired on December 31st, 2022 and will need to be renewed after every General Election cycle for future elections, meaning that your updated request will be valid until December 31, 2024. Requesting a VBM ballot is easy, simply visit Browardvotes.gov to request your VBM ballot or to check your VBM status today!

Or call us at 954-357-VOTE (8683)

FROM THE FIRE DEPARTMENT

As the 2023 Hurricane Season approaches, we want to remind you of the importance of being prepared. Hurricanes are natural disasters that can cause significant damage and disruption to our community. Therefore, we urge you to take proactive steps to protect yourselves and your families.

Tips for Hurricane Preparedness:

1. Stay informed: Keep yourself up-todate with the latest weather reports and

emergency alerts. Make sure you have a reliable source of information and know how to access it in case of power outages or other disruptions.

2. Create a disaster supply kit: Your kit should include essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents. Be sure to store it in a safe and easily accessible place.

3. Prepare your home: Inspect your home

R Vice Mayor Sarai “Ray” Martin's Message, continued from page 1

PROS:

1. Easy Qualification: PACE loans are based on the equity in the property, rather than the borrower's creditworthiness.

2. No Down Payment: This can help homeowners who don't have the cash upfront for property improvements.

3. High Loan Limits: PACE loans can provide up to 20% of the property's assessed value, allowing homeowners to make major improvements.

4. Energy Efficiency: PACE loans prioritize improvements that make the home more energy-efficient, which can save homeowners money on energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.

CONS:

1. Higher Interest Rates: These can increase the overall cost of the loan.

2. Long Repayment Terms: PACE loans can extend up to 20 years, meaning homeowners may end up paying more in interest over time.

3. Some improvements through the PACE

contractor may cost more than if you shopped for bids and paid through different means.

4. Property Liens: PACE loans are secured by a property lien, which means they must be paid off before the property can be sold or refinanced. This can make it difficult for homeowners with PACE loans to sell their property at a time of their choosing.

I really want everyone to ensure that they have read the final “con” twice.

If you would like a BBQ in your neighborhood or want more information about our upcoming PACE workshop, please contact my assistant Tina or me: 954-777-2042

tjemeison@lauderhill-fl.gov.

My Additional Ongoing Initiatives:

• Inverrary Steering Committee

• Free Smoke Detectors and Installation

• Community Leaders Breakfast

• Condo Association Forum

Reminder

Avoid flooded streets. Do not drive through standing water even on familiar streets.

for potential hazards, such as loose roof tiles, clog ged gutters, or weak trees. If necessary, make repairs or hire a professional to do so. Consider installing hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect your home from high winds and debris.

4. Have an evacuation plan: If you live in an area that is prone to flooding or storm surges, make sure you have a plan to evacuate. Know the nearest evacuation route and have a designated meeting place for your family.

5. Stay connected: Make sure you have a way to communicate with your loved ones during and after the storm. Have a charged phone, a backup power source, and a plan to check in with family and friends.

We encourage you to take these steps seriously and be prepared for any potential hurricanes that may come our way. Please visit our city's website or the National Hurricane Center (nhc.noaa.gov) for more information on how to prepare and stay safe during a hurricane.

FIRE CHIEF ROBERT TORRES

ST. GEORGE PARK: THE COMMUNITY ON THE MOVE

LAUDERHILL’S YOUTH SPORTS

Hello Parents! Are you ready for your child to learn responsibility, encouragement and the impact of positive sportsmanship while working collaboratively? The City of Lauderhill’s Broncos and Lions Football and Cheer Programs are ready to teach your child all the skills that they need, both on and off the field. Both the Football and Cheer Programs offer caring coaches, a safe environment, mental toughness, discipline, team building and more. Register your child now by visiting CivicRec on the City of Lauderhill’s Website: Catalog - City of Lauderhill Parks & Recreation (secure.rec1.com). All home games are held at the Lauderhill Sports Park, 7500 W. Oakland Park Blvd., while the practice locations are:

• Lauderhill Broncos Football & Cheer: West Ken Lark Park / 1321 N.W. 33rd Ave.

• Lauderhill Lions Football & Cheer: Lauderhill 6-12 School Field / 1901 N.W. 49th Ave.

The St. George Community Center is located on the east side of Lauderhill. Park Staff provides programs and activities for all ages, genders and backgrounds. The newly renovated community center received upgrades to the weight room, computer lab and outdoor restrooms, and a new covered basketball court to keep park users cool while enjoying games. We welcome everyone in the City of Lauderhill to check out what we have to offer.

ST. GEORGE PARK ACTIVITIES:

• Gym: Open Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 8:30 pm and on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm.

• Lauderhill Fitness Walking Program: Ongoing. Register at St. George Park. Residents 55+ will receive a free t-shirt and pedometer when registering.

• Move With the Mayor Fitness Workouts: Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:00 am to 9:00 am.

• Senior Tech Savvy Program with Chen Medical: Third Thursday of every month. The Program teaches seniors how to use different technology platforms.

• Chair Yoga with Cano Health: Tuesdays from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Free yoga sessions with a certified yoga instructor.

• St. George Back to School Giveaway: July 22, 2023 (Tentative date. Call park to verify). The City of Lauderhill will host its Annual Back to School Giveaway. More than 500 Lauderhill residents will be provided with school supplies to help students succeed in the classroom.

• St. George Youth Field Day: Annual End of the School Year Celebration. Free prizes, giveaways and food will be available.

• St. George Beginners Fashion Design Class: A new program where teens between the ages of 13 and 18 learn about entrepreneurship, logo design, an introduction to sublimation, and how to make a t-shirt line.

For more information regarding any of St. George Park’s Programs, please stop by the park (3501 N.W. 8th St.) or call the Park’s staff at 954-791-1039.

Please continue to check the City of Lauderhill’s Parks and Recreation Department website for all Youth Sports Activities. We are always in need of responsible volunteers to assist with our programs. You can complete a volunteer interest form on our CivicRec website. A background check will also be required as part of the process to volunteer or coach for any of our programs.

For more information on our youth programs, please contact our Youth Programs Coordinator, Markeshia Kirksey, at 954-5721454 or via email at mkirksey@lauderhill-fl.gov.

VETERANS PARK

Swim Lessons at Veterans Park (7600 N.W. 50th St.)

$40/residents and $80/non-residents

2023 SUMMER SESSION DATES:

• June 19 to 29

• July 10 to 20

• July 31 to August 10

2023 FALL SESSION DATES:

• August 28 to September 8 (no class on September 4th — Labor Day)

• September 18 to 28

Water Aerobics Classes:

Thursdays from 5:30 pm to 6:15 pm

$3/residents and $6/non-residents

The City of Lauderhill’s Family Safety Day Event hosted by the Parks and Recreation Department will take place at John Mullin Park (2000 N.W. 55th Ave.) in June on a date to be determined. Please call the Park at 954-486-8450 for more information.

The students from Windermere’s Drop In Afterschool Program with Mrs. Jackie Vernon-Thompson from The Inside –Out School of Etiquette after completing her “Greeting and Communicating Effectively Etiquette Class”.

SADKIN COMMUNITY CENTER PROGRAMS

STREET NINJA KARATE

A hybrid martial arts training class that focuses on mastering courtesy, integrity, perseverance, indomitable spirit, and self-control. The class is open to children ages 7-16 years old. It is held every Saturday from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, and the cost is $60.00 per month. For more information, please contact Sensei Kevin at 954-249-0325 or visit www.streetninjakarate.com.

SOFLO VOLLEYBALL CLINICS

A FREE volleyball development training for beginners, ages 8 to 17 years old. The clinics are held every Monday and Wednesday from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm. For more information, please call the Sadkin Community Center at 954-321-2450.

ENCORE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER INC.

A weekly performing arts workshop for youth ages 6 to 18. It includes lessons in musical theater, acting, dance, singing,

improvisation, public speaking, musical instrumentation, music theory, performance art, video and audio engineering. For more information, please call 954947-1176 or visit www.encorepac.org.

PREGGO DANCE

A dance-based workout training specifically designed to improve the lives of pregnant mothers and their unborn babies by connecting them with a positive and healthy fitness lifestyle. The classes are held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10:30 am to 11:15 am. The class fees are single class: $15, 1 week: $50, 2 weeks: $98, and monthly: $175. For more information, please contact Dilma Higgins at 954-994-8437.

FITNESSCLASSES

Fitness and wellness classes with a variety of instructors are held on weekdays from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. The classes are for individuals ages 16 & up. All levels are welcome to participate in the classes that include spinning, Zumba, cardio kickbox-

ing, yoga, soca aerobics, bench step, and African dance (with live drummers). The cost is $30 monthly or $5 per class. For more information, please call the Sadkin Community Center at 954-321-2450.

LAUDERHILL YOUTH COUNCIL & TEEN LEADER CLUB

This free leadership program is offered for youth in grades 6-12. This program includes shadowing a City Commissioner, Lauderhill civic and community projects, junior lifeguard training sessions, financial success classes, public speaking training, field trips, Florida League of Cities discussions, tours to the city’s various departments, Youth Council participation, weekly community service hour opportunities, leadership activities, event planning, guest speakers and more! The meetings are held every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at the Lauderhill Historical Museum (1080 NW 47th Ave.) from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. For more information, please call the Sadkin Community Center at 954-321-2450.

UPCOMING PUBLIC EVENTS AT THE LPAC

Lauderhill Performing Arts Center

For tickets and more information, visit www.lpacfl.com or 954-777-2055.

• June 2 & 3

Encore Dance Spring Recital

• June 4

MUSE Spring Recital

• June 10 & 11

Ballet Elite Spring Recital

• June 13

Kirova Ballet Spring Recital

• June 16-17

The Art of Classical Ballet Spring Recital

• June 18

Lauderhill Live Comedy Show

• June 23

One Step Up Dance Spring Recital

• June 26-July 22

Theater Summer Camp

• July 6

South Florida’s Got Talent

• July 7

Movie Premiere: Ultimate Betrayal

• July 8

Dancing with the Local Stars to benefit Women in Distress

• August 3

South Florida’s Got Talent

• August 25 & 26

Discover the Beauty Within Women’s Conference and Expo

• August 31

Lauderhill CRA Pitch Competition

• September 7

South Florida’s Got Talent

• October 7

South Florida’s Got Talent

STORMWATER AND DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS

The City’s Storm Water Division is actively working on preventative maintenance in preparation for the 2023 Hurricane Season. Our Storm Water Team has increased the citywide cleaning of the storm drains with our vacuum truck. We’ve also cut back the tree foliage in several critical areas, inspected our culverts and regularly maintained aquatic treatment of our canals. We also routinely exercise the pumps and gates at each control station to ensure optimum performance.

There are several ways our residents can support the City’s efforts. First, keep our waterways clean by not dumping trash and household items in our streets or canals. Next, report ponding or slow drainage if this is occurring in your area. This may be a sim-

ple case of removing the buildup of grass clippings and leaves from on top of a drain, however, it may be a major blockage or plugged line. Lastly, please remove any debris from above and/or adjacent to your storm drains. Rake away leaves and grass clippings adjacent

SUMMER LEARNING PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AT LAUDERHILL CENTRAL PARK LIBRARY

June-August 2023

to your property to keep them from blocking the grate. Also, do not store bulk trash on top of any storm drains. This also restricts the drainage and creates major ponding. The City’s Public Works Department thanks you for assisting with these elements.

954-357-7833 | Please pre-register for all classes at: www.broward.org/library/Pages/Default.aspx

CARIBBEAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL

(Call the library in May/June 2023 for further details)

Saturday, June 10, 2023, 12:00pm - 3:00pm

LITTLE SCIENTISTS: ANIMAL FRIENDSMAD SCIENCE PALM BEACH

Wednesday, June 14, 2023, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

BOOK DISCUSSION

(Call library in May/June 2023 for title)

Wednesday, June 21, 2023, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

READING IS FUN LITERACY FESTIVAL

Sponsored by Equipped Mentoring

Saturday, July 08, 2023, 12:00pm - 4:00pm

GEOGUESSR - LET'S EXPLORE THE WORLD!

Presented by Creation Station

Tuesday, July 11, 2023, 12:00pm - 3:00pm

POETRY WRITING WORKSHOP FOR YOUTH

Presented by the Omari Hardwick bluapple Poetry Network

Wednesday, July 12, 2023, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

WHAT LURKS BENEATH?

Presented by Creation Station's Bob Anstett

Thursday, July 13, 2023, 12:30pm - 1:30pm

VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE

Monday, July 17, 2023, 12:30pm - 7:30pm

VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE

Tuesday, July 18, 2023, 10:30am - 5:30pm

VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE

Wednesday, July 19, 2023, 12:30pm - 7:30pm

VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE

Thursday, July 20, 2023, 10:30am - 5:30pm

VIRTUAL REALITY EXPERIENCE

Friday, July 21, 2023, 10:30am - 5:30pm

GEOGUESSR - LET'S EXPLORE THE WORLD!

Presented by Creation Station

Tuesday, July 25, 2023, 12:00pm - 3:00pm

MODS STEMOBILE: WEATHER THE STORM

Presented by Museum of Discovery and Science

Tuesday, August 01, 2023, 2:00pm - 2:45pm

MODS STEMOBILE: WEATHER THE STORM

Presented by Museum of Discovery and Science

Tuesday, August 01, 2023, 3:00pm - 3:45pm

UKULELE FOR TEENSWHOLE VIBES MUSIC THERAPY

Wednesday, August 02, 2023, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

GEOGUESSR - LET'S EXPLORE THE WORLD!

Presented by Creation Station

Tuesday, August 08, 2023, 12:00pm - 3:00pm

BOOK DISCUSSION

(Call library in May/June 2023 for title)

Wednesday, August 09, 2023, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

City Staff has a schedule for maintaining/spraying our canals.

HEALTH GRANT

City of Lauderhill Receives Health Foundation of South Florida Grant Award to Assist with the Lauderhill Health and Prosperity Partnership Community Action Plan.

The City of Lauderhill Commission passed a Resolution allowing for the City to work with the Health Foundation of South Florida (HFSF) in connection with the Lauderhill Health and Prosperity Partnership (LHPP). The Health Foundation of South Florida has committed to granting the City of Lauderhill $341,054 over 3 years in order for LHPP to implement its newly developed action plan.

The mission of Health Foundation of South Florida is to invest in and be a catalyst for collaborations, policy and systems change that improves the health of South Florida communities, with a focus on vulnerable, low to moderate income populations. Established in 1993, the nonprofit foundation has awarded over $140 million to nonprofits providing programs and services in Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. For more information, visit hfsf. org and follow us @HealthSFL.

LHPP utilizes a collective impact model to improve the health and well-being of our community by addressing the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) which includes healthcare, economic stability, built environment, education and community context. Within the Collective Impact Framework, the City of Lauderhill functions as the initiative’s “backbone organization,” fulfilling the roles of primary convener, communicator, coordinator, and capacity-builder. The Health Foundation of South Florida’s Grant will support LHPP’s infrastructure and capacity where the City can hire a full time Program Manager to better serve the work of LHPP. To view the Action Plan, visit online.fliphtml5.com/vuemf/jhgm/.

“It is absolutely critical we support our residents to gain access to healthcare, insurance, livable wages, and affordable housing. There is a lot of work to be done.

With the Health Foundation of South Florida Grant, we can ascertain that a staff person will be dedicated to keeping our 88 partners on task and working toward a healthier and more prosperous Lauderhill,” explains Co-Chair Dr. Keisha Grey who represents the voice of our residents on the LHPP Host Council.

LHPP in its infancy stage has completed its community needs assessment, developed a strategic plan to identify areas of concern, provided the asset-based community development trainings and

attained a federal grant for COVID-19 health literacy programs. The Program Manager will be the project manager and facilitate logistical support, maintain strategic coherence of LHPP, train LHPP members, help build capacity, facilitate communications, develop and share data, and grow and sustain engagement with community.

For more information on the LHPP or the Health Foundation of South Florida Grant, please contact the City of Lauderhill at 954-777-2041.

CITY CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER 2023

6:45 pm, Multi-Purpose Room 134

Enforcement Board Meeting, 7:00 pm, Commission Chambers

Commission Workshop, 4:00 pm, Commission Chambers (Cancelled)

Note: Meeting dates and locations are subject to change. Please verify appropriate information by accessing the Lauderhill Calendar of Events and/or Public Notices.