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THEOFFICIALP U B L I C AT I O NOFTHECITYOFTA M A R AC ,FLORIDAOCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2014BUILDING TOMORROW
Tam-A-Gram is the official publicationof the City of Tamarac, Florida. Themagazine is published quarterly andmailed to residents and businesseswithin the City.Reader questions and comments arewelcome. Please send your comments to:Public Information OfficeAttn.: Tam-A-Gram7525 N.W. 88th AvenueTamarac, Florida 33321You may also email your commentsor questions to the Public InformationOffice at:pio@tamarac.org. Please include TamA-Gram in the subject line of your email.To submit pictures, please send highresolution photos to pio@tamarac.org.Tam-A-Gram and other City publications,are available online at www.tamarac.org.CITY COMMISSION:INSIDE10 11 12 20142 By the Numbers4 Preserving Our Roads4 Flood Insurance Fees Drop5 BSO and Residents Unite6 Tamarac at Your Fingertips7 Public ArtHarry Dressler, MayorHarry.Dressler@Tamarac.org8 Taste of TamaracMichelle J. Gomez,Vice Mayor District 2Michelle.Gomez@Tamarac.org9 Historical Society Seeks CentenariansPamela Bushnell,Commissioner District 1Pamela.Bushnell @Tamarac.orgDiane Glasser,Commissioner District 3Diane.Glasser@Tamarac.orgDebra Placko,Commissioner District 4Debra.Placko@Tamarac.orgCITY MANAGER:Michael C. CernechPUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE:Elise Boston, EditorI M P O R TA N T N U M B E R SMAIN NUMBER(954) 597-3500ADA Coordinator/Accessibility (954) 597-3505Voice1 (800) 955-8770TTY1 (800) 955-8771Citizen Hotline(954) 718-1800(Activated During Emergencies)Building Services(954) 597-3420Building InspectionsBuilding Permitting andInspection ResultsCity Clerk’s Office(954) 597-3505City Commission(954) 597-3460City Manager’s Office(954) 597-3510PIO (Media)(954) 597-3523Community Development (954) 597-3530Code Compliance(954) 597-3425Business Revenue(954) 597-3537TA M A G R A M10 11 12 2014Financial Services(954) 597-3550Purchasing(954) 597-3570Customer Service(954) 597-3590Fire Rescue (Non-Emergency) (954) 597-3800Human Resources(954) 597-3600Job Line(954) 597-3615Risk Management(954) 597-3613Mayor and Commission (954) 597-3460Parks & Recreation(954) 597-3620Community Center(954) 597-3620Caporella Aquatic Center (954) 597-3660Caporella Fitness Center (954) 597-3661Social Services(954) 597-3642Transit/Shuttle Bus(954) 597-3649Police/BSO Tamarac District(Non-Emergency)(954) 720-2225Public Works(954) 597-3700Engineering(954) 597-3712Recycling & Trash Hotline (954) 597-3740Utilities (Water)(954) 597-3750Billing Inquiries(954) 597-3590Utilities (leaks, breaks, etc.) (954) 597-3750Water Treatment Plant (954) 597-3775(Also used for afterhours Utilitiesemergencies.)Service Providers:Waste Management(954) 974-7500Comcast Cable(954) 252-1937Library (Tamarac Branch) (954) 765-1500Post Office (Tamarac Branch) (954) 722-3152
Building TomorrowResidents in Tamarac have certainexpectations of their City; things asbasic as working sewers and streetlights,fire and police departments who respondto your call, parks and recreation activitiesfor all ages. Most of the time, it’s a nonoccurrence: the water comes and goesas it should, streets are lit, your calls areanswered in time of need and the parksare in good shape and available for play.That happens because at the most locallevel -- your City government -- the budgetfocus is on sustaining current servicesand providing enhancements whereverpossible. That task can be quite daunting.The 2015 budget maintains the generaloperating millage rate, but Tamaraccollects no property taxes from over 11%of our residents. Almost 33% pay 250 orless per year in property taxes to the City.As we plan for the future, the challengebecomes how to provide the highest levelof programs and services that limiteddollars will allow.Residents can be secure in the knowledgethat the City’s fiscal policies are sound. AsMoody’s Investor Services noted in a SpecialComment in April, “The City of Tamarachas managed its budget well despitethe changing economic and financialpicture As the Tamarac example shows,strong financial management is criticalfor Florida local governments to maintainfinancial health ”What lies in the year ahead? The City’sbudget for the 2015 fiscal year is centeredon infrastructure. There will be roadwayimprovements citywide, improvementsto the stormwater system, upgrades tokey water mains and water distributionsystems, park renovation and constructionof barrier walls. All of these designed tostrengthen an aging infrastructure inTamarac, as well as prepare the City forfuture growth and development.We’ve begun to see an influx of newbusinesses and the expansion of existingones, as well as the resurgence ofresidential construction. And, becauseeach year’s budget supports Tamarac’sstrategic plan, we’re prepared for whattomorrow will bring.W W W.TA M A R A C . O R G1
Where the Money GoesAs a new fiscal year begins, it’s appropriate to take stock of the past year and what’sbeen accomplished as well as look at plans for what’s ahead.2014 HIGHLIGHTS Overall crime in Tamarac continues to decrease, including residential burglarieswhich are down 29.5% over last year (when there was also a significant decline). ePermits rolled out to the community; this streamlined electronic plan review systemreduces processing time, saves money and the environment. Completion of Mainlands Park, turning 23 acres of vacant land into a park for bothpassive and active enjoyment. Renovations were completed to the playgrounds at both Caporella Park and theTamarac Sports Complex. Improvements include artistic fencing, benches and theaddition of new playground equipment including sensory pieces for children withspecial needs. Operation NIP It helped bring 924 homes into code compliance, improving both theaesthetics and values in our neighborhoods. The initiation of a comprehensive program to pressure clean curbs and mediansthroughout the City. Once the 18-month cycle is completed, we’ll start all over again. The adoption of a planning and zoning Redevelopment Study as well as a CorridorImprovement Study to improve major corridors within the City. Staff has beenworking closely with several communities to gauge interest and begin the process ofinstalling buffer walls along key roadways. Installation of the first artificial turf field on the main football/soccer field, adjacentto the new press box at the Tamarac Sports Complex. This field requires lessmaintenance, which means extended play time. And, because no water, fertilizer orchemicals are required it’s environmentally friendly as well. Lime Bay Boulevard sidewalk improvements: the construction of a sidewalk toprovide the community with a link to the City’s sidewalk network.2TA M A G R A M10 11 12 2014
2015 PLANNED PROJECTS Demolition of the 36-year old Fire Station 78 and the beginning of construction of anew facility on the site at Commercial Boulevard and the turnpike. The establishment of a Fire Station on University Drive and NW 72nd Street. Beginningwith a temporary trailer, the station is expected to help significantly reduce responsetime to this area of the City. Renovation of Sunset Point Park including replacement of the playground equipment,shade structure and safety surface; installation of a large picnic shelter and resurfacingof the multi-purpose path. The installation of an additional artificial turf field to replace natural grass at theSports Complex. Purchase and installation of shade systems for the Caporella Aquatic Center and theSports Complex. The installation of canine agility equipment at the Gary B. Jones Dog Park. Bus shelter replacement at high use areas throughout the City. Continuation of construction of the multi-phase citywide bike path system andassociated sidewalk improvements. An active renewal and replacement program to maintain our aging infrastructureconsisting of: Citywide roadway improvements An aggressive culvert and headwall improvement program to prevent erosion Stormwater receiving pond erosion control Sewer and water distribution system upgrades, including completereplacement of the water main along University DriveW W W.TA M A R A C . O R G3
Preserving Our RoadsWhen’s the best time to beginpreventative maintenance? Before aproblem occurs. That’s the theory behindthe pavement rejuvenation project thatyou’ll see on City roads throughout the nextfew months. While the roads may look fineto the casual observer, the areas that willbe rejuvenated have actually suffered somedeterioration – but not enough so that wecan’t extend their life span.It’s an effective process. It’s not repaving;it is rejuvenation and unfortunately inthe beginning it’s not very pretty. Overtime however, the appearance improvestremendously, extends the life of the roadand helps delay the expense of repaving.If you have any questions about Tamarac’sroad rejuvenation project, please call thePublic Services department at (954) 597-3700.Over time, road surfaces become brittleand start to crack. In a first for the City,we’ll be using a new process that willhelp improve elasticity and add anotherfive to seven years of life to the asphalt.How does it work? A chemical is appliedto problem areas and, over time, as itpenetrates through the surface the roadbecomes more pliable.Flood Insurance Fees DropIf you own real estate in Tamarac you’llbe glad to know that flood insurancefees have decreased, as more than 60%of the properties in the City are nolonger in a flood zone. Tamarac Buildingdepartment officials worked closely withrepresentatives from FEMA, BrowardCounty and the Florida Department ofEmergency Management to rewrite theCity’s flood ordinance and finalize the newflood insurance rate maps -- which wentinto effect on August 18th.4TA M A G R A M10 11 12 2014What this means to you is that if youare no longer in a flood zone, you arenow eligible for a preferred risk policy,which is usually much cheaper than theregular flood policy. The National FloodInsurance Program’s Community RatingSystem gives Tamarac a Class 6 rating,which means that those with homesand businesses still in flood zones willreceive a 20% flood policy discount. Formore information about flood protection, visit www.tamarac.org/building.
BSO and Residents UniteThe Broward Sheriff’s Office Tamaracdistrict invited the community out toenjoy a night of fun activities, free foodand music to mark the National NightOut Against Crime. The annual eventstarted as a means to reduce crime andincrease safety in neighborhoods throughlaw enforcement and communitypartnerships. That’s been the casein Tamarac: as the relationship andinteraction between BSO deputies andthe community grows stronger, crimecontinues to decrease. According to BSODistrict Chief Neal Glassman, there is areason that crime went down 18% lastyear and continues to decrease this year:residents are getting involved.Chief Glassman and the City Commissionrecently honored resident Mark Rohmannwith a certificate of appreciation for his“commitment to the safety and wellbeing of the residents of Tamarac”.Mr. Rohmann helped to apprehend aring of criminals allegedly responsiblefor nearly 20 home burglaries in theCity. One afternoon he spotted twosuspects outside his kitchen window;when they saw Mr. Rohmann theyran to the car they had parked in hisdriveway. But before they left, he wasable to get identifying informationto provide to BSO deputies. Because ofresidents’ willingness to report eventslike these, BSO continues to crack downon similar crimes.W W W.TA M A R A C . O R G5
Get Out and VoteThe general election is Tuesday, November 4. In addition to races on a regionaland state level, you’ll be able to vote for Tamarac’s mayor as well as theDistrict 2 commissioner. District 4 Commissioner Debra Placko qualified to run in the generalmunicipal election and was unopposed. Early voting runs from October 20 – November 2at the Tamarac Branch Library, 8701 W. Commercial Blvd. Hours of operation are Monday –Friday, 9 am – 7 pm and Saturday - Sunday, 7 am – 3 pm.You must be registered by October 6 to participate in this year’s elections. Check the back of yourvoter’s registration card for your precinct location. For additional election information, contact theBroward County Supervisor of Elections office at (954) 357-7050 or log on to www.browardsoe.org.TU Wants You!If you’ve ever wondered what it takesto run the City, who is in charge ofwhat or how you can be more involved,Tamarac University (TU) might be perfectfor you. The City will begin acceptingapplications in November for its multiweek civic engagement program thatgives community members an insideview of how the City works. Residents andmembers of the business community getto hear directly from department staffand the City Commission about the insand outs of their jobs, and how publicservice keeps the community going.TU is ideal for civic minded citizenslooking to network and learn aboutvolunteer opportunities. Classes areheld one evening per week at differentfacilities throughout the City and are ledby Tamarac department directors. TUgraduates complete the program with anexpanded network, better understandingof how local government functions, andfeel empowered to play an active role inthe community.The application process begins inNovember and ends January 30, 2015.Classes begin in March. Visit www.tamarac.org to apply.6TA M A G R A M10 11 12 2014Tamarac atYour FingertipsDid you know youcan access most ofthe City’s servicesonline? This makesit easy to do businessfrom the comfort ofyour home or office,just as efficiently asit would be meetingpersonally with acustomer service representative. With just afew keystrokes, you can: Pay utility bills View, sign up and pay for recreationactivities Report a concern View streamed commission meetingsand agendas Apply for building permits andschedule inspections Access maps of City facilities View the status of currentconstruction projects See frequently asked questions Contact City staffLog on to www.tamarac.org to take advantageof these services and more.
Public ArtThe City of Tamarac has been awarded a National Endowment for the Arts grant forthe design of an Everglades viewing platform in Sunset Point Park, 11000 McNab Road.The project will engage the community in a series of public meetings and workshopsto design a new park structure– a combination environmentaleducation space and viewingplatform – that will connectresidents with the south Floridawetlands and ecology, provide aplace to view the Everglades, andcreate an iconic design for theCity to be viewed by motoristswho pass along the SawgrassExpressway.The 25,000 grant will pay forcompletion of the design phase,with construction to be fundedby the City’s Public Art Fund.Rowena SmithLynne KrollBetween 2011 and 2013, artists Rowena Smith of Tamarac and Lynne Kroll of Coral Springsdonated 22 paintings and prints to the City of Tamarac Public Art Program. Both artistshave exhibited in hundreds of museums and galleries across the nation. The paintings canbe seen in the atrium of City Hall, Community Center, Recreation Center and the waitingrooms and conference rooms of several City departments. The total value of the paintingsand prints exceeds 25,000.W W W.TA M A R A C . O R G7
IN MEMORIUMIt is with great sadness that we note thepassing of Karen Roberts who served on theTamarac City Commission from 1997-2006,including two terms as vice mayor.The Results Are InTaste of TamaracCircle your calendar and start watchingyour calories because Saturday, October18th marks the 11th anniversary of the Tasteof Tamarac Business Expo. The signatureculinary event of the Tamarac Chamber ofCommerce will feature 30 food stations witha variety of tastings, and 30 businesses andorganizations showcasing their productsand services. Food samples will be free withthe purchase of an 8 ticket.Children 12 and under can participate in theKids’ Corner featuring a high energy danceparty, fall costume contest, face paintingand more. It all takes place at the TamaracCommunity Center, 8601 W. CommercialBlvd., from 11:30 am – 3 pm.For more information contact the TamaracChamber of Commerce at (954) 722-1520.Tamarac recently added the Open City Hallonline forum to the list of initiatives aimedat providing residents with opportunitiesto express their opinion on importantissues. Our initial topic was the Parksand Recreation Master Plan and it was asuccess: 200 people viewed the topic and70 offered comments and suggestions. Youraised many great points, all of which werereviewed by our Master Plan consultants.Initial findings show that Tamaracresidents are satisfied with the existingparks and recreation system and wouldlike to see it expanded. Top prioritiesinclude increased access to parks acrossall modes of transportation (pedestrian,bicycle, vehicular and transit) and addedcomfort (shade, water fountains andseating areas). You also told us that you’dlike us to expand some high-qualityamenities and facilities (indoor fitness,picnic areas, walking and biking trails,and the dog park). The Master Plan willbe finalized this winter and posted on theParks and Recreation page on the City’swebsite.Make your voice heard. Check out thecurrent topics or view the results fromthose which have closed. Better yet,subscribe to be notified when a newtopic or outcome is posted. Simply go towww.tamarac.org/opencityhall.8TA M A G R A M10 11 12 2014
Historical Society Seeks CentenariansThe Tamarac Historical Society is always on the lookout for people or events that reflectthe City’s proud past or promising future. Right now, they’re looking for residentswho are – or are approaching – 100 years of age. They’d like to find out a little about theirrecollection of events in the City and tell the White House about those who have reachedthis magical mark.If you or someone you know in theCity has reached 100, please contactthe Tamarac Historical Society at(954) 597-3629 or history@tamarac.org.Congratulations to the honorees inducted into the first annualTamarac Historical Society Hall of Fame. The winners are:Herbert Daley Sandy H. Ehrlich Richard C. Entin Jacqueline LekaczEdward Levy Ruth Pavlow Olive SmithAfrican-American Cultural & Social Club of Kings Point, TamaracKings Point Choral Group, Tamarac Kiwanis Club of TamaracThanks for all you do to help make Tamarac “The City For Your Life”.W W W.TA M A R A C . O R G9
LIFE IN TAMARACJULY 410TA M A G R A M10 11 12 2014TH2014
Discover the Benefits of Tamarac Parks and RecreationService once per month to the Coral SquareMall and two plazas, which include HomeDepot, Sam’s Club, Whole Foods, andMichaels. Cost is 1.00 per ride. Please call(954) 597-3649 for further information.Tamarac is one of 212 communities acrossthe country named a Playful City USA 2014.The program, sponsored by the HumanaFoundation, recognizes communities thatencourage active lifestyles for kids by making play a priority. We use play to address anumber of challenges facing kids, familiesand communities in the City. By creating ahealthier, more vibrant community, Tamaraccan remain a place where families want tolive and companies want to do business.ARE YOU 60 YEARS OROLDER AND IN NEED OFTRANSPORTATION?The Tamarac Paratransit Program providestransportation within City limits to doctors’offices, supermarkets, banks, pharmacies,Tamarac Community Center and theAquatic Complex. The cost is 40 for 6months or 30 for 3 months for unlimitedrides. We also offer the Express Shuttle34TH ANNUAL TAMARACTURKEY TROT 5K RUNWake up early, throw your turkey in theoven, grab your running shoes and startyour Thanksgiving festivities with the 34thAnnual Tamarac Turkey Trot 5K Race! Theevent has more than 1,700 runners and 1,000spectators. The Tamarac Turkey Trot is acertified race course that starts at 77th Streetand Pine Island Road, winds through theWoodmont community and ends at City Hall.Participants are treated with complimentaryfruit, snacks, and refreshments. The eventends with an awards ceremony presented inall age categories from under 10 through 80and over. Awards are given to the top threerunners in each age group and to the topthree overall male and female finishers. Joinus this year on Thanksgiving Day, November27th at Tamarac City Hall, 7525 NW 88thAvenue. The race starts promptly at 7:30 am.Register at www.splitsecondtiming.com orwww.tamarac.org. Gobble, Gobble!Volunteer of the QuarterGladys Ehrlich has done more than her fair share of helping othersin Tamarac. She started her volunteer career as a BSO CitizenObserver Patrol member and continues to offer her time and talentsthroughout the City. Each week she devotes several hours to staffingthe Tamarac Community Center information booth, where she coversthe weekly dances and handles the program ID checks. Gladys copiesand collates the senior program calendars and goes the extra mileto familiarize herself with the day’s programs and their locations, inorder to provide excellent customer service to our residents.Gladys EhrlichW W W.TA M A R A C . O R G11
F ITN E S S C E NTE RWe invite you to visit the Tamarac Fitness Center. Wehave a variety of free weights, Life Fitness machines,treadmills, elliptical cross trainers, recumbentlifecycles, stationary bikes and more. The WellnessCenter offers a friendly non-competitive workoutenvironment with an awesome view of our competitivepool or community garden. If this is your first visit,our qualified friendly staff will show you aroundand help you become familiar with the equipment.We also have personal training sessions available.Visit the Tamarac Fitness Center today at 9300 NW58th Street, contact us at (954) 597-3661 or visit ourwebsite at tamarac.org/parks.Personal Weight Training sessionsare available by appointment.1 person individual session. 40.002 person shared session. 25.00per person per session3 person shared session. 20.00per person per sessionFAC I LIT Y LOCATI O N SCaporella Aquatics and Wellness Complex9300 NW 58th StreetCaporella Park5200 Prospect RoadGary B Jones Park for People and Pups8101 Southgate BoulevardSunset Point Park11000 McNab RoadTamarac Community Center8601 West Commercial BoulevardTamarac Multi-Purpose Center7531 North University DriveTamarac Park Recreation Center7501 North University DriveTamarac Sports Complex9901 NW 77th StreetTephford Park10003 Southgate BoulevardVeterans’ Memorial Park7825 Southgate BoulevardFor more information on any of the programs oractivities listed in the Discovery section of theTam-A-Gram, please contact Tamarac Parks andRecreation at: (954) 597-3620. Times and locationsmay be subject to change without notice.12TA M A G R A M10 11 12 2014CAPO R E LL AAQ UATI C &WE LLN E SSCE NTE RVisit the Caporella Aquatic Centerand enjoy its many amenitiesincluding a 25 meter swimming pool with zero depth entry andslide, children’s water playground, 3,000 sq.ft. fitness room, lockerrooms and picnic tables.Come see our beautifully refurbished Sprayground!POOL HOURS:Weekdays:Pool: 10:00 am – 6:00 pmSlide and Sprayground: 2:30 pm – 6:00 pmSaturdays:Pool, Slide and Sprayground: 10:00 am – 6:00 pmSundays:Pool, Slide and Sprayground: 10:00 am – 4:00 pmPool closed: December, January and FebruaryFor Aquatic Center admission fees and rental information,please call (954) 597-3660.LAP SWIMMINGEvery day: 10:00 am – 6:00 pmPROACTIVE ARTHRITIS WATER EXERCISE CLASSWork on balance and coordination while increasing range ofmotion, joint flexibility, muscle strength and cardiovascularfitness without causing strain.When:Mondays and Wednesdays, 10:00 am – 11:00 amFee:Senior Program Members: FREENon-Senior Program Members: 2/ClassSWIM LESSONSParent Tot:Ages 3-5Tot Only: Ages 3-5. No parent. Will learn to ask for permissionto enter, how to exit, submerging, floating, frontkick & arm paddling.Level One:Ages 5 & over. Learn to blow bubbles, front andback float, glide, and kick, and front crawl stroke.Level Two: Ages 5 & over. Learn freestyle with breathing,backstroke, and breaststroke.Adult Level 1: Ages 18 & over. Front/back float, basic freestyle,backstroke and endurance.When:Call for days and timesFee:Residents: 45, Non-residents: 55WATER AEROBICSGet a total body workout to improve motor skills, balance, strengthand posture. Moderate to high level of cardio will be achieved.When:Monday and Wednesday, 6:00 pm – 6:45 pmFee:Residents: 45, Non-residents: 55, (4 week session)AQUA ZUMBAJump into this Latin-inspired, easy to follow, calorie burningdance fitness party.When:Tuesdays, 6:00 pm – 6:45 pmFee: Residents: 15, Non-residents: 20, (4 week session)TAMARAC SWIM TEAMTamarac Swimming, Inc. is offering a competitive swim teamprogram for children ages 5-13 and a United States Masters Swimmingprogram for adults 18-90 at the Caporella Aquatic Complex, 9300NW 58th Street. Free tryouts on Saturdays at 10 am. For additionaldetails and pricing contact Coach Marty Grady (954) 805-6512 oremail tamaracswimming@gmail.com.Coming Soon!!! – Junior Lifeguard training for ages 8-15.Call (954) 597-3660 for details.
W W W.TA M A R A C . O R G13Tues.Sat.Kids CookingLevel 1 & 2 Ballet, Tap & JazzMon. & Wed.6:30 - 8:00 pm10:30 - 11:15 am5:30 - 6:30 pm7:00 -8:00 pm5:30 - 8:30 pm10:00 - 11:00 am6:00 - 7:00 pm5:30 - 6:30 pm11:45 am - 12:30 pm11:00 am - 12:00 pm6:00 - 6:45 pm10 yrs. & up2 - 4 yrs.6 -12 yrs.12 - 17 yrs.7 - 12 yrs.3 - 12 yrs.7 - 12 yrs.7 - 18 yrs.5 - 12 yrs.5 - 12 yrs.5 - 12 yrs.5 - 13 yrs.10 yrs. & up10:30 am - 12:00 pm12:30 - 1:15 pm8 - 13 yrs.Ages6:00 - 7:00 pmTime 80/ 90 65/ 75 40/ 50 25/ 35 80/ 90 45/ 55 40/ 50 70/ 80 40/ 50 45/ 55 45/ 55 40/ 50 60/ 70 30/ 40Resident/Non-Resident FeeRecreation CenterRecreation CenterSports ComplexMulti-Purpose CenterRecreation CenterRecreation CenterRecreation CenterRecreation CenterCommunity CenterRecreation CenterRecreation CenterCommunity CenterRecreation CenterMulti-Purpose SessionFor more activity information, please call the Tamarac Community Center at (954) 597-3620 or the Recreation Center at (954) 597-3674.Registration is also available online for some programs at https://webtrac.tamarac.orgWing ChunMon. Tues. Wed.Tues.Tennis LessonsTiny TotsThurs.Teen ClubTues. & Thurs.Mon. & Wed.Kempo KarateTaekwondo (Advanced)Sat.Thurs.GymnasticsI-Imagine ArtSat.FashionistaSat.Sat.Cartooning ClassHip Hop/Cheerleading/TumblingWed.DayBasketball FundamentalsActivityYO U T H R E C R E AT I O N A C T I V I T I E S
SOCIAL SERVICESAll services are provided at the Tamarac CommunityCenter (TCC) unless noted otherwise. Call the Informationand Referral line at (954) 597-3642 for more information onsocial service programs that may be available in BrowardCounty. For transportation issues, to register for our Paratransit or to inquire about transit, please call (954) 597-3649.Schedules for the Red and Red Extension Transit Routes areavailable at www.tamarac.org and at City facilities.PROGRAMSCAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPAre you a full-time caregiver for someone over the ageof 60? Do you feel stressed out and overwhelmed? Meetothers who share similar experiences caring for a lovedone. In partnership with Jewish Family Services. Pleasecall Susan Panzer at (954) 370-2140. The group meets the1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 10:00 am.FINANCIAL COUNSELING: DO YOU NEED TO LEARN HOWTO MANAGE YOUR FINANCES?Learn how to budget or use online banking during yourone on one counseling session with a financial specialist.Also get assistance with applying for federal programssuch as Medicaid, Food Stamps and Cash Assistance.Free for Tamarac residents. By appointment only.Please call (954) 720-2485 to set up your free sessions. Apartnership with Monarchcare Inc., a non-profit socialservices agency.INDIVIDUAL COUNSELINGFree limited sessions for Tamarac residents only. Pleasecall Lakshimi, a licensed mental health counselor tomake an appointment at (954) 655-7040 or Lola at (561)318-1935. Please leave your name and number and yourcall will be returned within 24 hours.LOWER YOUR PRESCRIPTION COSTSStart saving today with the City of Tamarac PrescriptionDiscount Card program. Benefits include an averagesavings of 20%, free enrollment, coverage for all familymembers, and no income requirements. Please call SocialServices at (954) 597-3642 for locations.MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT ASSISTANCEOpen Medicare enrollment runs from October 15th toDecember 7th. The Aging and Disability Resource Centerwill have SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs ofElderly) counselors on site to assist seniors with openenrollment on the following dates and times:Tuesday, October 21st from 10:00 am to 12:00 pmThursday, November 13th from 10:00 am to 12:00 pmThursday, December 4th from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pmNo appointment is necessary.TAMARAC EXPRESS SHUTTLETake a ride on our Express Shuttle every 2nd Thursdayof the month to the following stops: Coral Square Mall,Whole Foods, Sam’s Club, Doris Market, Michaels, andPanera Bread. Starting point is Tamarac CommunityCenter at 10:00 am. Shuttle connects to Red Route and RedExtension route. 1.00 roundtrip fee. No sign up required.14TA M A G R A M10 11 12 2014S E RV I C E S/G R O U P SAll services and groups held at the Tamarac Community Center,8601 W. Commercial Boulevard / (954) 597-3620.POSITIVE ADJUSTMENT GROUPLearn coping skills on how to adjust to life changesincluding losing a loved one, health, daily living activities,moving, etc. A licensed mental health therapist willfacilitate this important group for all seniors.When: Every Monday, 10:30 am – 11:30 amCENTER FOR COMMUNICATIONS - FREE AMPLIFIED PHONEProvides amplified phones and TDDs free of charge toresidents of the State of Florida who are deaf and/or hardof hearing. Please call Social Services at (954) 597-3642for information.When: October 1st and December 3rd, 10:00 am - 11:00 am.FREE 911 CELL PHONES FOR SEN
Public Services department at (954) 597-3700. I. f you own real estate in Tamarac you'll be glad to know that flood insurance fees have decreased, as more than 60% of the properties in the City are no longer in a flood zone. Tamarac Building department officials worked closely with representatives from FEMA, Broward
