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Hello Friends & Neighbors,
I am grateful to be able to reach you through this medium.
Community engagement is at the forefront of my mission to provide resources, events, and support for our residents and businesses. My motto of "Putting You First...Keeps Us First" will continue to be my guide. I look forward to engaging with you more in the future! Please take a look at the various events, projects, programs and share with your contacts.
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This August, I am proud to join communities across Broward County and the nation in celebrating National Black Business Month. This observance recognizes the achievements, innovation, and lasting contributions of Black entrepreneurs whose businesses help strengthen our local economy and enrich our communities.
Broward County is home to one of the largest Black populations in Florida, with Black residents making up nearly one-third of our community. Thousands of Black-owned businesses across the County play a vital role in creating jobs, providing essential services, and driving economic opportunity. From neighborhood storefronts to growing enterprises, these businesses reflect the talent, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit that make Broward County such a vibrant place to live and work.
This month, I encourage everyone to support Black-owned businesses in our neighborhoods and throughout Broward County. Whether you shop locally, dine at a Black-owned restaurant, or recommend a local entrepreneur to others, every effort helps strengthen our community and celebrate the diversity that makes Broward County thrive.
| The County is joining together to help communities impacted by the devastating twin earthquakes in Venezuela. Residents and businesses are encouraged to donate new essential supplies, including bottled water, non-perishable food, tarps, tents, flashlights, batteries, sleeping bags, first-aid kits, diapers, personal care items, and other emergency necessities at designated County drop-off locations starting Monday, July 6. Every donation will help provide critical relief to families recovering from this disaster. Only new items will be accepted. Learn More | | |
How Your Property Tax Dollars Support Broward County Services | Broward 311
I believe you deserve to know how your property tax dollars support the services you and your family rely on. Broward 311 is a multilingual resource that connects residents with County information and essential programs, including family assistance, veteran and senior services, transit, libraries, and much more. Watch this brief informational video to learn how County services are funded and how Broward 311 can help you access the resources you need.
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Division Spotlight: Broward County Animal Care
This month, I'm proud to highlight Broward County Animal Care, a division dedicated to protecting the health and well-being of pets while promoting responsible pet ownership throughout our community. Through compassionate care, education, and lifesaving programs, Animal Care works every day to ensure animals have the opportunity to live safe, healthy, and happy lives.
Beyond providing shelter for homeless pets, Broward County Animal Care offers a variety of affordable services to help residents care for their animals. The shelter is open seven days a week for adoptions and lost-and-found services, and residents can access discounted spay and neuter services through the SNIP (Spay/Neuter Incentive Program), low-cost veterinary care, pet licensing, vaccinations, and microchipping to help keep pets healthy and safely connected to their families.
Every pet deserves a loving home, and our community plays an important role in making that possible. Broward County Animal Care is always looking for adopters, foster families, and dedicated volunteers to help care for animals in need. Whether you're ready to welcome a new companion into your home or lend a helping hand, I encourage you to get involved and support this important mission. Click here for more information!
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On July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted, prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in many areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and public and private places that are open to the general public. Learn about the many ways Broward County supports the Americans with Disabilities Act by visiting our ADA Services website, and our Human Rights website.
Did you know… Broward County is a proud supporter of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, a globally recognized initiative allowing those with a non-visible disability to discreetly indicate they need a helping hand, understanding, more time or patience by wearing a sunflower symbol.
| | This year’s sea turtle nesting season is a little more than halfway over, and Broward County has good news to report. Latest counts show a whopping 3,426 nests across 24 miles of the County’s coastline! With little more than three months to go, Broward boasts 79 leatherback nests, 227 green turtle nests, and 3,120 loggerhead nests so far. The County’s Sea Turtle Conservation Program reminds residents and visitors to stay away from turtles they may encounter along the shore and leave nests alone. Did you know, on average, leatherbacks and greens lay 110 eggs per nest and loggerheads lay about 100? Sea Turtle Nesting Season runs through October 31. | | It’s easier than ever to do business in Broward County through the ePermits OneStop website, a centralized source where customers can submit municipality building permit applications and receive approval for associated Broward County permits and licenses online. Twenty-nine municipalities have partnered with Broward County to participate in this service, helping contractors, businesses, design professionals and residents save time and money by reducing travel and printing costs and accelerating the review process. Another bonus of ePermits OneStop is the ability to check the status of permit and license applications 24/7. | |
Florida’s Back to School Sales Tax Holiday runs now through August 20, 2026. Residents can save money when purchasing qualifying school supplies including:
- Computers and other electronics like tablets, book readers and calculators that cost $1,500 or less.
- Clothing, shoes, backpacks, other bags and accessories totaling $100 or less.
- Pens, paper and all kinds of other supplies that cost $50 or less.
See the 2026/27 Broward County Public Schools calendar to help plan for the school year.
| | Staycation Savings for Residents | Looking for a local getaway? Florida residents can enjoy 15% savings and a $50 hotel credit at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. From rooftop views and poolside afternoons to vibrant dining experiences and coastal sophistication throughout the property, your next getaway is closer to home than ever before. Book your stay and learn more about this limited time offer today. |
Registration is Open!
The 18th Annual Climate Leadership Summit will be Nov. 4-6, 2026 at the newly expanded Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale. Register here before Aug. 31 to enjoy early bird pricing.
Join us for an engaging three-day program that will commence with a technology-focused Innovation Day on Wednesday, Nov. 4, followed by two days of programming featuring global, national, and local leaders and experts.
| Broward Cultural Division |
Apply for up to $50,000 in funding!
The Broward Cultural Division is accepting applications for FY27 Arts & Cultural Sponsorship funding to support festivals and special events throughout Broward County.
Virtual Workshops
Learn about eligibility and the application process via Zoom:
RSVP through Eventbrite to receive login details.
Learn more at Broward.org/Arts/Funding or contact Amanda Covach at 954-357-7458 or acovach@broward.org.
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Call For Entries Is Now Open!
Born from the creative legacy of FLIFF's four+ decades, FLIFFShorts spotlights the visionary storytellers working in short form. The four-day festival will present its innovative and captivating short films from around the world while proudly spotlighting our local film talent. Early Deadline: August 1st, 2026. Festival Dates: November 5th - 8th, 2026. For more information on how to submit your short, click here!
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Inspire Others with Your Story
Calling all certified small businesses (CBE, SBE, DBE, ACDBE), film and TV professionals, and all other OESBD clients to share your success stories, journeys, challenges, and triumphs. From our Kauffman FastTrac® NewVenture graduates to businesses provided with international trade assistance or designated prime contractors, entrepreneurs excel in Broward County and we want to hear from you.
Let us highlight your business milestones.
Telling your story can spotlight your business; help others; attract customers, highlight your organization to potential partners or investors; and motivate other entrepreneurs. That's a win-win!
Click here to share your story today!
| Tune In to Broward Connects | |
Step into the heart of Broward County with Broward Connects—the podcast that brings you closer to the people, policies, and stories shaping our community. From local government updates to inspiring human-interest features, each episode offers engaging conversations that both inform and connect.
Whether you’re a resident, a visitor, or simply curious about life in Broward County, Broward Connects is your front-row seat to everything that matters.
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Connect with Broward
Residents and businesses can easily report and track service requests to the County 24/7 using the free MyBroward app, offered on both Android and iOS devices, or by accessing the system online through MyBroward.Broward.org. From reporting missed garbage pickup and general consumer complaints to updating a certificate of insurance or pet owner information, MyBroward, a service of 311 Broward, is here to help. Residents can choose to receive status updates by text or email. Similar assistance is available by dialing 3-1-1 or visiting them online.
| | Upcoming Events & Opportunities | | OESBD has assigned small business goals to projects . These projects have not yet been advertised for solicitation. However, this is the time to get your business certified and prepared! If you have not already done so, please ensure that your company is a registered vendor with Broward County. It's free to do so! Become a registered vendor by signing up for BPRO, powered by Bonfire, the new Broward County Procurement system. | | |
The Planning and Economic Development Department is responsible for coordinating the City’s housing programs available through state and federal programs. The City partners with a local vendor, Community Redevelopment Associates of Florida, Inc. (CRAFLA), to implement and process the City’s housing programs.
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Housing Grant Programs: The City of Pembroke Pines is pleased to offer purchase assistance for very low-to-moderate-income households seeking to buy a property for use as their primary residence. Funding is available on a first-come, first-qualified basis until program funds are exhausted. Assistance comes in the form of a 0% interest deferred second loan that converts to a grant if all program conditions are met.
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Sewer Connection Grant: The City of Pembroke Pines is pleased to offer a grant program to assist low- to moderate-income homeowners who are required to connect to Broward County’s sewer system. The program is administered by Community Redevelopment Associates of Florida, Inc. (CRA) on behalf of the City. CRA will manage the intake process and review applications for eligibility. This program provides eligible Pembroke Pines residents with up to $10,000 in financial assistance to cover costs.
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Pembroke Pines is committed to supporting businesses of all sizes by providing resources, connections, and opportunities to grow and thrive. Whether you’re starting a new venture, expanding, or relocating, the City offers a variety of tools to help your business succeed:
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Bids & Awards: Explore current bids and awarded contracts.
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Building Permits: Access information and applications for permits.
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Local Business Tax Receipt (LBTR): Learn how to obtain your business tax receipt.
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Business Relocation: Discover the benefits of bringing your business to Pembroke Pines.
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Chamber of Commerce: Connect with the Miramar–Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber of Commerce.
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City Charter & Code of Ordinances: Review local regulations and ordinances.
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Demographics: Gain insights from city demographics and census data.
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Film Permits: Apply for film permits and learn filming guidelines.
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Shop Local / Business Directory: Support and explore local businesses in the Pines.
| | Housing Assistance Programs | |
The City of Miramar's Housing Division is dedicated to providing affordable, safe, and stable housing to enhance community well-being and support low- to moderate-income families in achieving economic success and a high quality of life. The city has created the following programs to aid with housing:
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First-time Homebuyer Program: This program provides down payment and closing cost assistance to very-low and low-income first-time homebuyers. The amount of assistance varies with income level and is available on a first-come, first-qualified basis until no more funding remains under the program. Assistance is in the form of a 15-year, 0% interest deferred second loan that reverts to a grant if all program conditions are met. Please contact City’s grant consultant, Community Revitalization Affiliates, Inc at (954) 939-3271 for up-to-date funding availability
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Residential Utility Connection: This program provides grant assistance up to $5,000 to connect to the City’s main sewer system. This activity benefits low income persons. This is a one-time grant provided by the City of Miramar. A second mortgage is not applied to the property.
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Rental Assistance Program: This program provides up to $8,000 to assist eligible households with the required upfront rental deposit (first and/or last month’s rent) and/or utility connection/start-ups to move into a new unit. This is a one-time grant provided by the City of Miramar and is not on-going monthly rental assistance.
| | Business Opportunities in Miramar | | |
Miramar offers a variety of programs and resources to help businesses succeed by fostering growth, supporting local entrepreneurs, and creating opportunities to connect with city contracts and the broader business community. From grants and financial incentives to counseling services, networking events, and streamlined permitting, the City is dedicated to making Miramar a place where businesses can start strong, expand with confidence, and thrive for the long term.
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Business Industry Development (BID) Program – Supports local, small, minority, and women-owned businesses by facilitating contracting and development opportunities.
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Contracting Opportunities – The city maintains bid opportunities, with notifications available through Onvia DemandStar. Preference points are available for local and small business bidders.
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Small Business Signage Program – Provides up to $10,000 in financial assistance for signage improvements.
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Small Business Grant Program – Offers funds to help businesses grow and expand operations.
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Vacant Storefront Cover Program – A no-cost program to install artistic coverings on vacant storefronts to improve commercial corridors.
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Vendor Registration – Businesses can register online to do business with the City of Miramar, with a brochure available to guide the process.
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Business Services – Free counseling through SCORE and the Miramar-Pembroke Pines Chamber, commercial rehabilitation assistance for property owners, expedited permitting for certain projects, and planning/zoning support.
| | Explore Miramar with the Mira Motion Community Shuttle | | |
Getting around Miramar is easy and free with the Mira Motion Community Shuttle. Four routes connect neighborhoods to key destinations, local attractions, and Broward County Transit, offering a convenient option for work, school, appointments, and more. All routes begin and end at the Miramar Town Center Transportation Hub.
Hours: Monday through Friday
(No service on weekends or holidays)
Key Stops Include:
• Pembroke Lakes Mall
• Miramar Town Center
• Multi Service Complex
The shuttle is free to ride. Connecting to Broward County Transit may require fares.
For route information or assistance, call 954 602 3194 (Monday through Friday, 7 am to 4:30 pm). TTY users may dial 954 602 3802 or AT&T Relay 7 1 1.
Holidays with no service include New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
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The City of Hollywood and Broward County are committed to supporting residents through a variety of affordable housing initiatives. Both local governments offer housing assistance programs designed to increase access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a renter facing financial hardship, there are resources available to help.
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City of Hollywood First-Time Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program: Qualified buyers can receive a deferred payment loan at 0% interest, 15-year term, up to $50,000 to purchase property within Hollywood's eligible Neighborhood Pride areas. For more information visit the Hollywood Homebuyer Purchase Assistance Program
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The City of Hollywood’s Rental Assistance - Eviction Prevention program, using State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP) funds, offers help to renters who might be on the verge of homelessness due to not being able to afford their rent. The funds for the program are administered, by the City of Hollywood Community Development Division, as a grant and no repayment is required. For more information visit the Rental Assistance - Eviction Prevention
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The Housing Rehabilitation Loan is secured by a mortgage and promissory note prepared by the City. The terms of the mortgage and note are as follows: A deferred payment loan for thirty 30 years, unless the home is sold, rented, ceases to be the primary residence of the homeowner, or is transferred or conveyed by any other means. Zero (0) percent interest. The debt is payable in full on the maturity date set forth in the Mortgage that is thirty years from the date of the signing of the Promissory Note and Mortgage. For more information visit Home Rehabilitation & Repair
| | Business Opportunities in Hollywood | | |
Hollywood is the ideal place to open or relocate a business. Centrally located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the city offers direct access to Port Everglades, one of the largest passenger and cargo ports in the world, and is minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, making it a hub for commerce and connectivity. Combined with Hollywood’s world-class beaches, vibrant downtown, welcoming residents, and business-friendly city administration, the city creates an environment where businesses can thrive.Hollywood provides a variety of resources and services to support new and existing businesses:
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Bids – View active vendor bids and learn how to become a registered city vendor.
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Building Permits – Apply for the permits required to start or expand your business.
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Business Disaster Preparedness – Guidance to help businesses prepare for emergencies.
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Film Permits – Obtain permits to film productions within the City of Hollywood.
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Local Business Tax Receipt – Requirements for obtaining and renewing a business tax receipt to legally operate.
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New Business Listings – Monthly updates on new and transferred businesses in Hollywood.
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Security Alarm Registration – Information on permits and fees for installing business security alarm systems.
The city also partners with regional resources such as Enterprise Florida, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency, and Port Everglades to further support business growth.
| | City of Hollywood Transit Options | | |
The City of Hollywood offers two convenient local shuttle services for residents and visitors:
Sun Shuttle (Ride Circuit app)
- On-demand service in two zones (East and West), with transfers at City Hall
- Cost: $2 per rider
- Hours:
- Zone 1 East: Weekdays 10 am to 9 pm, Weekends 10 am to 10 pm
- Zone 2 West: Weekdays 7 am to 6 pm, Weekends 11 am to 7 pm
- Download the "Ride Circuit" app from Google Play or the App Store and check for promo codes
Holly Go Community Shuttle
- Free fixed-route shuttle within Hollywood
- Connects to Broward County Transit, Sun Shuttle, and other regional transit options
- Hours:
- Orange Line: Weekdays 8 am to 5 pm, Weekends 9 am to 5 pm
- Red Line: Off-peak season weekends 8 am to 7 pm; peak season weekends 8 am to 8 pm
- Blue Line: Daily 9 am to 5 pm
- Green Line: Daily 9 am to 5 pm
For more information, call 954 967 4357 or email transit@hollywoodfl.org
,Monday through Thursday, 7 am to 6 pm.
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Make Your Home Safer, More Comfortable, and More Beautiful
The City of Hollywood is offering two incredible Home Repair Programs to help homeowners make upgrades that improve safety, comfort, and affordability. Don’t wait — there is no waiting list, and you could qualify today!
Neighborhood Pride
• Up to $40,000 Conditional Grant for exterior improvements like roofs, impact windows & doors, fences & driveways, exterior paint, and landscaping
• Income limit: 120% AMI
• Homes must be in an eligible census tract
Housing Rehabilitation
• Up to $150,000 Deferred Loan for interior & exterior repairs including HVAC, electrical, roof, structural, and more
• No monthly payments required
• Income limit: 80% AMI
• Available citywide and can be combined with Neighborhood Pride
Apply Today — No Waiting List!
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Friday Night Movie at ArtsPark
Friday, July 31st at 8 p.m.
Grab a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a movie night under the stars at ArtsPark in Downtown Hollywood. This week’s free Friday Night Movie feature is “Michael,” beginning at 8 p.m. Bring the family, relax on the lawn and enjoy an evening of outdoor fun in the heart of Downtown Hollywood.
ArtsPark is a plastic-free venue. Please bring only reusable containers.
| | Broward County employs more than 6,500 people across 60+ agencies including Aviation, Finance and Administrative, Human Services, Environmental, Public Works, Enterprise Technology Services, Parks & Recreation, Libraries, Communications, and many more. Career opportunities are posted regularly across a variety of departments. Check out the latest openings and explore the great benefits of joining our team. | | |
Do you have experience in the field of civil engineering? Maybe you have a more artistic background? The City is NOW HIRING for a City Engineer/Division Director, as well as a Part-Time Art Teacher.
Send your resumes to HRResumes@ppines.com.
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Looking to build a rewarding career with the City of Pembroke Pines?
Discover a range of exciting job opportunities with a team that values growth, innovation, and community impact. Whether you’re seeking full-time, part-time, or apprenticeship roles, the City of Pembroke Pines offers a variety of positions with great benefits and the chance to contribute to a thriving community.
Explore our current job openings and take the next step toward a meaningful career in one of South Florida’s most vibrant cities!
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Explore Exciting Career Opportunities with the City of Miramar!
Your journey to make a difference starts here! Join their team and become part of a vibrant community dedicated to excellence and growth. The City of Miramar offers a variety of rewarding opportunities, including full-time positions, part-time roles, and apprenticeships and a comprehensive benefits package.
Discover how you can contribute to this vibrant city—explore our current job openings today and take the first step toward an exciting and impactful career!
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If you’re an experienced communications pro who thrives in a busy office full of creatives and you are looking for your next role in public service, than this is an excellent opportunity for you to consider. The Communications Manager role is ideal for candidates with experience in:
• Team and Project Management
• Strategic Communications
• Media Relations & PR
• Digital & Social Media Strategy
• Marketing, Branding & Advertising
• Economic Development
• Crisis Communications
Join a team dedicated to accuracy, innovation, transparency, and community connections in one of Broward County’s largest and most exciting cities on the move. The application window is open until June 10th.
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Join the City of Hollywood – Where Opportunities are Open to All!
The City of Hollywood is proud to offer Equal Opportunity Employment for all applicants. They encourage a diverse workforce and provide consideration for employment regardless of age, race, gender, disability, or any other non-merit factor. They are committed to fair and equitable hiring practices.
Veterans and individuals with special needs are also encouraged to apply and can receive reasonable accommodations as needed. For more information, including copies of their Equal Opportunity Action Plan and Veterans’ Recruitment Plan, contact the Human Resources Office at 954.921.3216.
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Flashback Friday: Celebrating Jamaica’s 60th Independence in Miramar
For this Flashback Friday, I’m looking back on Miramar’s celebration of Jamaica’s 60th year of independence. From the historic first lighting of the Miramar water tower in green and gold to cultural events, live entertainment, food, and community celebrations, it was a meaningful tribute to Jamaica’s rich heritage, resilience, and lasting impact on our community.
Click below to watch the full video.
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Wolmer's Annual Fundraising Gala
It was an honor to attend Wolmers' Alumni Association South Florida Chapter's Annual Fundraising Gala. I'm very grateful to have the opportunity to connect and reconnect with others from my alma mater while supporting a good cause! Thank you to Wolmers for this fabulous event!
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Eulalee Bax Remembrance Day Recognition
With a heavy heart, last week, I attended the funeral of Eulalee Bax, Commissioner Hazelle Rogers' beloved mother. Thank you to all that gathered to remember and celebrate Mrs. Bax's remarkable legacy. Let us keep Commissioner Rogers and her family in our prayers. On behalf of the Board of Broward County Commissioners, I presented the family with an Expression of Sympathy and officially recognized July 25th as Eulalee Bax Remembrance Day in Broward County, Florida.
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Pines Village Group Meeting
One of the most rewarding parts of my job as your county commissioner is being able to attend community meetings organized by volunteers who want the best for their neighborhood!
Here at the Pines Village Group meeting we discussed the various county resources available to residents and spoke of on going projects in the area. Broward County and the City of Pembroke Pines are committed to assisting our residents as best we can with their various needs.
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Meeting with CBS4 Miami
Had a great day meeting with top executives from CBS4 Miami! It is so important that we seek to amplify the good news stories that permeate throughout Broward County even as the bad news stories are breaking on a regular basis!
| | Follow Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis | | |
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| | "Putting You First, Keeps Us First!" | | | | |
