By: County Commissioner Michael Udine
As we march into November and the upcoming holiday season, our cities are getting creative. Now is a great time to check out events like drive-in movie nights, a hike at one of our parks on a nature trail, or a local farmers market. These activities allow us to be safe while enjoying life, and we should all take advantage of opportunities to relax, even if it is just for an hour or two.
November 3rd is a big day for our community and country. As your County Commissioner, I serve as a member of the Broward County Canvassing Board. The Canvassing Board’s mission is to oversee a transparent, safe, and unbiased election to ensure everyone’s vote is counted. Through investing in the Supervisor of Elections Office, Broward County is committed to ensuring that your vote is counted whether you vote by mail, early, or on Election Day! Thank you to everyone who has played a role, from the volunteers, poll workers, and Supervisor of Elections staff. Your contributions make sure democracy is alive and well.
In October, Broward County partnered with the Florida Panthers to expand the Kauffman Entrepreneurship Development Program. The 10-week program offered by Broward County has graduated almost 100 entrepreneurs and provides workshops for the public. Participants are mentored on the real-world aspects of starting a business, the tools needed to succeed, and how to access capital to grow. This expanded partnership with the Panthers will provide additional financial resources to the program so more residents can pursue their dreams and keep Broward businesses growing.
The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport will be holding its triennial airport safety training drill in November. The drill is mandated by the FAA to test the airport’s emergency preparedness and response. In this exercise airport, volunteers will act out scenarios as passengers, airport personnel, and security. This will allow the emergency operations staff to understand how we can improve security. This drill will happen after the airport winds down for the evening and will not affect operations. Thank you to all the airport personnel and staff for giving your time to protect the traveling public!
Last month Broward County funded a program match for Swim Central. Drowning is one of the leading causes of death of children in the nation. Swim Central is vital to prevent this from happening by giving kids the opportunity to work with instructors on the fundamentals of swimming and water safety. For more information on how to sign up or participate, please visit Broward.org/parks or call 954-357-7946.
On November 1, we will observe Veterans Day. Cities across District 3 will be hosting ceremonies that honor our veterans’ courage, sacrifice, and heroism. Our hometown heroes continue to serve long after they have left active duty service in a variety of missions that support causes throughout our community. Thank you for your service.
As I am out and about in District 3, the sentiment I most hear, “Is 2020 over yet?” Now we are approaching Thanksgiving and the holiday season. I know that many of us cannot wait for 2020 to be over. This year has been full of many unexpected changes and challenges that have rocked the foundation of our daily lives. These times are demanding for all, no matter your circumstance. I ask you to approach the holiday season from the perspective of sharing. Whether it is time, food, or donating funds to a local community charity, let us celebrate the holiday season with gratitude.
My staff and I have made staying connected with the residents of District 3 a top priority. We have been available by phone, answering questions by email, and also getting out the most up to date and accurate information available. I can be reached as always at MUdine@Broward.org or my office at (954) 357-7003. Follow me on social media @CommissionerMichaelUdine on Facebook and @MichaelUdine on Twitter or Instagram to receive important updates and see what is happening in our community.
I look forward to connecting with you.
Michael Udine
Broward County Commissioner Michael Udine represents Seat Three, which covers Coral Springs, Parkland, Tamarac, and North Lauderdale.
Send your news to Parkland’s #1 News Source, Parkland Talk.