According to the Broward County Medical Reserve Corps (BCMRC), there is a critical shortage of plasma in our community. If you tested positive for COVID-19, a small amount of your blood could save the life of someone suffering from the coronavirus right now. Donating plasma is safe and easy. Individuals interested in donating may visitbit.ly/2E1q1fT to register. Thank you for being a hero!
Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing at Holiday Park
Free drive-thru COVID-19 self-swab testing is available at Holiday Park. Located at U.S. 1 and N.E. 8 Street (just south of Sunrise Boulevard), the site is open Tuesday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Since its opening, 33,413 tests have been conducted at the site. The site offers free drive-thru COVID-19 self-swab testing to anyone age 5 or older with or without COVID-19 symptoms. No doctor referral needed. Proper ID is required with name, date of birth, address, and photo. In an effort to keep the flow of traffic moving, please register for an appointment in advance by visiting https://florida.curativeinc.com/welcome. The procedure for the oral self-swab test requires individuals to swab the inside of their mouth for approximately 20 seconds. The swab sample is then placed in a vial, sealed, and sent to a lab for analysis. Results are delivered to patients via email or text message. Patients who do not receive results after 72 hours, may contact Curative Inc. via email atsupport@curativeinc.com. For more details, visit bit.ly/ftlcovid19testing.
Walk-Up COVID-19 Testing at Lincoln Park
Free walk-up COVID-19 testing is available at Fort Lauderdale’s Lincoln Park, located at 600 N.W. 19 Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. The Lincoln Park testing site is open Tuesday - Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Administered by the Florida Department of Health, the site offers free walk-up testing to anyone with or without COVID-19 symptoms. There are no age or identification requirements and no doctor referral is needed. For more details and to view a video of the Lincoln Park testing site, visit bit.ly/ftlcovid19testing.
COVID-19 Testing Sites at Broward Parks
COVID-19 testing sites have opened at Central Broward Regional Park, located at 3700 N.W. 11 Place in Lauderhill, and at Tradewinds Park located at 3600 W. Sample Road in Coconut Creek. The testing site at Central Broward Regional Park is open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Testing is available to individuals of any age with or without COVID-19 symptoms. Pre-registration is not required. The testing site at Tradewinds Park is open Sunday - Thursday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Testing is available to anyone, regardless of age, with or without COVID-19 symptoms. Pre-registration is not required. For more information about testing sites in Broward County, visit https://bit.ly/2VnGwZD.
Census Ends September 30! Take Action Now!
Attention Neighbors! The U.S. Census Bureau is ending all counting efforts for the 2020 census on September 30, a month earlier than previously announced. That means we all need to work together to take action today! Please help the City of Fort Lauderdale be accurately counted in the 2020 Census. Currently, Fort Lauderdale’s response rate is 53.1%, which is more than 10 percentage points behind the current national response rate of 63.4%, and more than 7 percentage points under the current state of Florida response rate of 60.3%. Counting every neighbor in our City gives us an opportunity to receive our fair share of more than $1.5 trillion in federal funding for infrastructure, schools, housing, roads, healthcare, and public service programs. An accurate census count also provides critical funding for hospitals, disaster recovery, and emergency readiness for pandemics like COVID-19. Please respond to the 2020 Census today! Fill out and mail back the questionnaire sent to your home; complete the census form onlinewww.my2020census.gov; or take the census over the phone by calling 1-844-330-2020.
Get Your Free Census Yard Signs!
Help Fort Lauderdale Raise the Count by displaying a 2020 Census yard sign! Neighborhoods may obtain free yards signs from the City’s Office of Neighbor Support by emailing a request to neighborsupport@fortlauderdale.gov. Please indicate in the email if your neighborhood has earned a “Super Responder Neighborhood” digital badge, so a sticker can be included on your signs. To find out your neighborhood’s status, visithttps://bit.ly/3gZQHwG. If possible, neighbors are encouraged to coordinate yards sign requests through their homeowners or civic association so that numerous yard signs can be picked up at one time. Please remember that City 2020 Census yard signs may not be displayed in parks or in roadway medians. In addition, please temporarily remove all yard signs if there is a pending inclement weather event (i.e., tropical storm, hurricane, tornado, etc.) and permanently remove all yard signs immediately following the census closing on Wednesday, September 30, 2020.
Virtual City Commission Meetings Resume on August 18
On Tuesday, August 18, the Fort Lauderdale City Commission will host a Conference Meeting at 1:30 p.m., a Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board Meeting at 2:30 p.m. (or as soon thereafter as possible), and a Regular Meeting at 6:00 p.m. The public will be able to listen to and view the virtual meetings on FLTV, YouTube, Zoom, Comcast Channel 78, and AT&T U-verse Channel 99. Agendas will be posted online in the days leading up to the meetings at bit.ly/ftlccagendas. To learn more about virtual City Commission meetings, including how to sign up to speak, visitfortlauderdale.gov/vcmeetings.
City Commission Joint Workshop with Budget Advisory Board on August 18
The Fort Lauderdale City Commission will host a joint workshop with the Budget Advisory Board on Tuesday, August 18, at 11:30 a.m. The public will be able to listen to and view the virtual workshop on FLTV, YouTube, Comcast Channel 78, and AT&T U-verse Channel 99. The workshop agenda will be posted in the days leading up to the meeting atbit.ly/ftlccagendas. For additional details about the virtual workshop including how to submit comments about an agenda item or how to sign up to speak, visit bit.ly/2PDTC1P.
SFRPC Offering Small Business Loans Through CARES Act
The South Florida Regional Planning Council (SFRPC) has secured more than $5.3 million in funding to help struggling businesses as a result of COVID-19. The small business Revolving Loan Fund CARES Act program is available to eligible businesses including small businesses, sole-proprietors, and 501(c)(3) organizations located within Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade or Monroe Counties. Loan amounts range from $25,000 - $500,000 with fixed interest rates from 3% to 4% and financing for up to 10 years. Funding from the program may be combined with other programs including the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), or the State of Florida Bridge Loan Program. Personal guaranties and collateral are required. The Revolving Loan Fund CARES Act program is not a grant or forgivable loan. Interested businesses may apply at www.CARESActRLF.org. For more information, please contact Jeff Tart, Senior Loan Officer, at 954-924-3653 or jtart@sfrpc.com.
Early Voting is Underway
Early Voting for the August 18 Primary Election is underway. Voting sites are open Monday - Friday, August 10 - 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, August 15 and 16, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information and a complete list of early voting locations, visit the Broward County Supervisor of Elections website athttps://bit.ly/31E54zV.
Important Deadlines from the Supervisor of Elections Office
The Broward County Supervisor of Elections Office reminds everyone about the following important deadlines related to the November 3 General Election:
- October 5 - Last day to register to vote in the General Election on November 3
- October 24 - Last day to request a mail-in ballot for the General Election on November 3
For more information, visit the Supervisor of Elections Office website atwww.browardsoe.org.
Las Olas Chabad to Distribute Free Backpacks and School Supplies on August 16
The Las Olas Chabad Jewish Center will host a free drive-thru backpack and school supply distribution event on Sunday, August 16. The event will begin at 10 a.m. at 1302 East Las Olas Boulevard in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Free backpacks and school supplies will be distributed to elementary and middle school children on a first come, first served basis while supplies last. Participants should remain in their vehicles and will be instructed to open their window when volunteers are ready to provide them with . For inquiries or to volunteer, please email libby@jewishfl.org.
FLIFF Drive-In Cinema at Pier 66 Presents La Bamba on August 16
On Sunday, August 16 at 8:30 p.m., the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) Drive-In Cinema at Pier 66 will present a screening of La Bamba, the 1987 film starring Lou Diamond Phillips that chronicles the rise of rock 'n' roll star Ritchie Valens. A 40-foot screen will be set up in the open green space located at the corner of SE 17 Street and Harbour Inlet Drive across from the hotel. Admission is $30 per vehicle and tickets must be purchased in advance at FLIFF.com. Entry into the parking area will begin at 7 p.m. with all vehicles positioned in place by 8:15 p.m. Popcorn and beverages will be available for purchase on-site. Anyone exiting their vehicle must wear a facial covering. The series is sponsored by Ed Morse Automotive Group; hosted by Pier 66; presented by FLIFF and Twilight Features; and co-sponsored by Riverwalk; Film, Music, Fashion & Create; and the Broward Cultural Division. For details, visit FLIFF.com.
ArtServe Cultural Convo with Makiba Foster on August 17
Join ArtServe for Culture Convo, an exciting presentation that looks at the world of the arts through the lens of cultural content creators and cultural organization leaders. The next Cultural Convo event will take place on Monday, August 17, from 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. and feature a conversation with Makiba J. Foster, manager of the African American Research Library and Cultural Center for Broward County Libraries. Throughout her career, Makiba has enjoyed providing traditional research and reference services, but increasingly she has invested her energies in helping libraries re-imagine services to better serve and positively impact the community. Tune in to the conversation on Facebook Live or on Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/98047196921. For more details, visithttps://www.facebook.com/ArtServeFlorida.
MODS to Offer School Day Camp Starting August 19
Beginning August 19, the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) will offer a School Day Camp to Support Broward County Public Schools distance learners in Kindergarten through Grade 5. MODS offers a safe, clean learning environment that follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and recommendations, including but not limited to: reduced and closed groups for physical distancing (9 learners per 1 educator), socially-distanced tables, touchless entry with daily temperature check and sign-in process, mask or face shield mandates and sanitization procedures. Pre-registration is required. Scholarships are available for learners in Kindergarten through Grade 3. For questions, please email booking@mods.net. For more information about costs, schedules, and to register, please visit https://bit.ly/2XEDy4b.
Stranahan House Presents Virtual History Happy Hour on August 26
Historic Stranahan House presents “Virtual History Happy Hour,” a monthly live online history event that will debut on Wednesday, August 26 at 6:30 p.m. The inaugural program will feature Broward County School educator and historian Michelle Sammartino, who will lead a discussion of Women's Suffrage in the United States and Florida, including the vital role Ivy Cromartie-Stranahan played in the effort. The Virtual History Happy Hour is free for Stranahan House members and Broward Teachers; $8 for non-members. Advanced registration is required. For more details, visit https://bit.ly/2XV9eCu or
Masks Mandatory in Establishments; Violators Risk Fines
Broward County Emergency Order 20-21 requires facial coverings to be worn in public and private spaces, including at all establishments, where social distancing cannot be maintained. The order also requires the mandatory use of facial coverings in residential facilities and condominium common areas (including reception areas, hallways, lobbies, and elevators), and requires that masks be worn by all persons in any establishment, other than amenities, regardless of social distancing; all people working in any establishment allowed to operate; and all workers in any establishment involved in preparing, handling or serving food. Any individual or establishment that violates the facial covering requirements is subject to a criminal and/or civil infraction, with fines up to $500 per violation for a criminal misdemeanor, $1,000 per day per violation for a civil citation, or up to $15,000 per violation for a known violation that is irreparable or irreversible. To read Emergency Order 20-21, visit bit.ly/2O9GSis.
Outdoor Events Prohibited Unless Approved by Broward County
Broward County Emergency Order 20-23, clarifies that outdoor, open air events are not permissible unless a reopening or operating plan (that must include, without limitation, appropriate operational safeguards, attendance limits such as persons per square feet, sanitation procedures, facial covering requirements, and staffing/security) is submitted toreopening@Broward.org and approved in writing by the Broward County Administrator. To read Emergency Order 20-23, visit https://bit.ly/310Tq1S.
Private Gatherings Restricted to 10 People
Under Broward County Emergency Order 20-22, private gatherings that take place at residential properties, whether indoors or outdoors, are limited to no more than 10 people. Individuals who are present at gatherings of more than 10 people are subject to civil and criminal penalties. Owners of properties where violations take place are also liable regardless of whether they are present when the violations occur. In addition, residents of residential properties, whether they own or rent, must ensure that all individuals on their property comply with the limitations on private gatherings stated in Emergency Order 20-22 or be subject to civil and criminal penalties. To read Emergency Order 20-22, visithttps://bit.ly/bceo20-22.
The City of Fort Lauderdale’s Code Enforcement Team continues to conduct inspections of restaurants and businesses to ensure COVID-19 regulations are being followed, particularly as they relate to requirements for operating procedures, indoor and outdoor seating capacity, facial coverings, social distancing, spacing/placement of tables and chairs, prohibiting congregating at bars and counters, limiting the size of parties, and proper hygiene and cleaning procedures. The City will continue to issue citations and fines and close down restaurants and businesses that are not in compliance. The City of Fort Lauderdale encourages the public to report COVID-19 violations to 311 or the City’s 24-hour Customer Service Center at 954-828-8000.
Online Dashboard Tracking COVID-19 Violations
An online dashboard is tracking Broward County complaints about businesses not following proper COVID-19 regulations related to operating capacity, social distancing, facial covering and other reopening requirements contained in local emergency orders. The GIS-based website displays details about business complaints received, including: name and location of the business being reported; number and type of warning or citation issued; and complaint outcome (i.e., warning issued, citation issued, complaint resolved, pending inspection, etc.). To access the dashboard and view updates for cities in Broward County, visit http://arcg.is/1riWfH.
Find Local COVID-19 Statistics on Broward County Dashboard
To help residents understand the magnitude of the pandemic locally, Broward County is posting a daily statistical dashboard of COVID-19 indicators. The data includes statistics on number of positive cases, positivity rates, hospitalizations, hospital capacities, and deaths. To view the dashboard, visit https://bit.ly/2CncuPv.
Avoid the Three Cs to Help Slow the Spread
The City of Fort Lauderdale and the Florida Department of Health remind everyone to protect themselves and others by avoiding the Three Cs: Closed Spaces, Crowded Places, and Close-Contact Settings and by wearing a mask in public:
- Closed Spaces. Avoid closed spaces with poor ventilation that could allow contagious droplets to linger in the air.
- Crowded Places. Avoid crowded places with many people nearby; the greater the number of individuals in an area, the greater the chances of COVID-19 spreading from person-to-person.
- Close-Contact Settings. Avoid close-range conversations and stay at least six-feet from others.
In addition to avoiding the three Cs and wearing facial coverings in all public spaces, individuals should continue to practice social distancing by staying at least six-feet away from others; stay home when sick or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms; clean and disinfect countertops and frequently used surfaces often; and wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol). For additional prevention tips, visit www.floridahealthcovid19.gov/prevention.
For Additional Information
For additional information regarding Coronavirus, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommended protective measures, please visit:
Ways to Stay in Touch
The City of Fort Lauderdale offers numerous ways for neighbors to receive important information and updates:
· If you live in Fort Lauderdale, join Nextdoor
Contact our 24-hour Customer Service Center at 954-828-8000
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