City of Fort Lauderdale Public Affairs

🙌🏾🌟 Last week we kicked off StartUp FTL - a comprehensive program dedicated to your business success! This 10-week intensive cohort is designed to ensure you know the basics to your business - from developing a business plan, to understanding when to pivot - the city is here to enhance your knowledge!

Without you, Fort Lauderdale can’t be the place “you never want to leave!”

Attention! 🚨🔔

The application deadline has been extended to Sunday, July 21st!🗣️

We have received a high volume of interest!

Make sure to apply to be part of the first StartUp FTL program! 💼👩‍💼👨‍💼

More info and application can be found on ftlcity.info/startupftl 🔗

Have questions? Contact our program coordinator, (954) 828-6182 📞

📢 🌟 ATTENTION ENTREPRENEURS!

Join us for an exciting opportunity as the City of Fort Lauderdale Public Affairs Division in collaboration with the U.S. Small Business Administration hosts the first SBA Townhall JUST FOR YOU!!!

This event is designed specifically for our small business owners to answer your questions and provide you with resources to help your business remain successful and financially sound in the city you never want to leave.

👥 Connect with business loan lenders
🤝 Network with other local business ownerd
📚 Learn about resources the city offers to help your business succeed

Date: Monday, July 22, 2024
Time: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, 512 NE 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Don’t miss this chance to fuel your business's growth.

City of Fort Lauderdale
Broward County Black Chamber of Commerce
Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce
Small business administration
Urban League of Broward County
Broward County OESBD

🎆 Happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸

Today we celebrate the land of the free and the home of the brave. Let’s honor the spirit of independence, unity, and freedom that defines this great nation. Enjoy the fireworks, BBQs, and time with loved ones.

🎇

🗣️Exciting News Alert! StartUp FTL applications are now open!

StartUp FTL is a FREE program by the City of Fort Lauderdale! 🚀 In partnership with Kauffman FastTrac, dive into a 10-week journey packed with expert insights and invaluable tools to shape your business dreams into reality. 💡 Be part of the first cohort! Courses start this August 2024 in a hybrid format.  
 
Informational Session – ZOOM, Thursday, July 11th at 11:00am 
 
Don’t miss this opportunity! Must reside or operate in Fort Lauderdale. Visit our website for selection criteria and course details. Let’s build your success story together! 🤝

Apply and register through the link below:
Ftlcity.infoo/startupftl 🔗
 
✨👩‍💼👨‍💼

🌟 Exciting News Alert! 🌟

Introducing StartUp FTL, a FREE program by the City of Fort Lauderdale! 🚀 Empowering aspiring entrepreneurs to Innovate & Elevate! 💼 In partnership with Kauffman FastTrac, dive into a 10-week journey packed with expert insights and invaluable tools to shape your business dreams into reality. 💡 Join us this August 2024 in a hybrid format.

📆 Applications open July 1st, 2024! 
 
💻 Informational Session – ZOOM, Thursday, July 11th at 11:00am - Register now through our website -> Ftlcity.infoo/startupftl  🔗
 
Don’t miss this opportunity! Applicants must reside or operate in Fort Lauderdale. Visit our website for selection criteria and course details. Let’s build your success story together! 

Ftlcity.infoo/startupftl  🔗
 
✨👩‍💼👨‍💼

THAT’S A WRAP!!!!

Great to have our Fort Lauderdale Delegation come to present their updates on the 2024 State Legislative Session. Our members and lobby team brought $4.975 million home (waiting for Governor’s final signature).

Thank you for your ongoing support and we look forward to working on priorities important to the community in 2025!!

#2024

🎉 Fort Lauderdale is buzzing with pride as we raise a toast to the unsung heroes of our community – our small businesses! 🌟 In honor of the recently declared Small Business Week in Florida (April 28-May 4, 2024), we’re extending our heartfelt appreciation to all the current and future entrepreneurs who bring innovation, passion, and vitality to our city’s streets. 🏙️✨Your hard work fuels our local economy, creates jobs, and enriches our neighborhoods. Let’s keep building, growing, and supporting each other every step of the way! 💼💪
 

is under a Flood Watch beginning Friday morning through Saturday evening. A Wind Advisory will also be in effect from 12 PM to 8 PM on Friday. ‼️

With 4-6 inches of rainfall expected, City staff is closely monitoring for any potential impacts and will be ready to respond if needed. ☔️☔️

The City’s stormwater system is designed to drain up to 3 inches of rain in a 24-hour period. Some temporary street flooding is possible but is expected to dissipate before the end of the weekend.

Please report impassable roads to 954-828-8000.

Happy International Women’s Day from Fort Lauderdale! 🌸 Today, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women everywhere. Whether it’s in business, arts, science, or simply as the heart of our families and communities, women continue to inspire and lead. Let’s continue to uplift, support, and empower each other every day! 💪✨

Closing out Black History Month🎉 with admiration for Clarence Woods, our remarkable Community Redevelopment Agency Manager 🏘️. Born in South Florida, educated, and seasoned in municipal government, Clarence’s commitment to service shines bright. 🌟

“I was born and raised here in South Florida (Miami) where I received my early education before leaving as a two-sport athlete to further my education.  After receiving a B.S. degree from Virginia State University (Petersburg, Va.)  and an MBA from Cameron University (Lawton, OK.), I returned home to pursue my professional career.  After a brief stint working in corporate America, I entered my life’s work in Municipal Government.  Having worked 18 years for the City of Miami, I’ve spent the last five plus years in service here in the wonderful City of Fort Lauderdale.  I am truly grateful that I’ve been allowed the opportunity to serve the community where I grew up and has afforded me the platform of fulfilling my God given purpose.”

His favorite quote from a great book is “He that is greatest among you, let him serve” – the bible 

As we conclude this month of celebration, let’s carry forward the spirit of unity and purpose. ❣️

In celebration of Black History Month, we spotlight Fire Lieutenant Jermaine Gaspard, a dedicated member of Fort Lauderdale Fire-Rescue. 🚒✨
 
Lieutenant Jermaine Gaspard has been serving Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue since October 2016. 🫡 Prior to joining Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, he worked as a professional chef for 6 years and then served with Plantation Fire Rescue for 11 years. In his time with the department he has acquired specialty certifications in Technical Rescue, Hazardous Materials and Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting. He has recently been assigned to the newly established Mobile Integrated Health unit where he continues to be a student of his craft. ⛑️❤️‍🩹
 
“A society grows great when individuals plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in” - Greek Proverb
 
Here’s to a trailblazer, constantly learning and growing in his craft! 🚑🔥
 

In celebration of Black History Month, 🎊 meet !✨ A dedicated force at the heart of the ’s Public Works Department🦺, has witnessed the transformative journey of our city and been an integral role in providing essential services to our residents. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🤝
 
“Hello, my name is Betty Crews.  I am a long-time employee of the City of Fort Lauderdale.  I have worked in the Public Works Department for the past 24 years.  I have seen many changes to our department and to the City as a whole.  In my time here I have met some wonderful caring and kind people, people that made you feel that you played a great role in providing services to our neighbors. To all our new employees, those that are already here and those that are just entering the workforce at the City of Fort Lauderdale, enjoy your time here, and serve our neighbors to the best of your ability. Fort Lauderdale is a great place to work and to live.”
 
‘Every great dream begins with a dreamer.  Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.’  Harriet Tubman
 
Let Betty’s story inspire you. Betty is a testament to the strength, patience, and passion within each of us to reach for the stars and change the world. 🌟🧡
 

Behind the scenes of our City’s magic events 🪄 we shine the spotlight this Black History Month on two remarkable leaders in the !

✨ Junia Robinson: Assistant Neighbor Support Manager in the Office of the City Manager

✨ Carl Williams: Director of Parks and Recreation Department

They are the heartbeat of our community!Learn about their incredible journeys and contributions to FTL and South Florida!🏛️

Exploring the rich history of African American community during Black History Month. 🏛️✨ Each place tells a unique story of resilience, community, and the vibrant culture that has shaped the Historic Sistrunk District.
 
🔅North Woodlawn Cemetery
🔅Provident Hospital (L.A. Lee YMCA / Mizell Community Center)
🔅Walker’s Grocery Store
🔅Eula Johnson House (NAACP Broward County Chapter)
🔅Westside Gazette Building
🔅Victory Theatre (Victory Black Box Theatre)
🔅Mount Hermon AME
🔅Mount Olive Baptist Church
🔅Colored School No. 11 (Old Dillard Museum)

Information was sourced from the website ‘Threads: An Interactive Map Exploring Broward’s Black History.’
 

During Black History Month, we shine a spotlight on ,✨ the visionary Chief Information Officer of the . With over 25 years of IT expertise, Tamecka is a trailblazer! Her dedication to technology and community shines bright. 🌐✨

Tamecka McKay holds a master’s degree in Public Administration, a bachelor’s degree in Technology Management, dual associate degrees in Psychology and Computer Information Systems (with honors) and currently pursuing her PhD in Public Policy.  Tamecka was named Top Ten City CIOs by GovCIO Outlook and recently nominated for the 2024 South Florida CIO ORBIE® Awards.
 
Tamecka started with the City of Fort Lauderdale in 2021 as IT Infrastructure and Operations Manager and quickly rose to CIO.  She is passionate about community service, serving those who serve and the possibilities in leveraging the power of technology to enhance the quality of life for all residents and businesses through digital transformation.
 
Fun Fact: Tamecka started training for a half marathon at the age of 50 and scheduled to run her first one on Fort Lauderdale’s award-winning beach on 2/18/24.
 
Favorite quote: The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step - Lao Tzu

Celebrating Black History Month with two remarkable leaders in :

🌟 Rufus James: Director of Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport
🛩️ See Rufus’ biography in the post above

🌟 Carlton Harrison: Assistant Director of Fort Lauderdale
🛩️See Carlton’s biography in the post above

Their inspiring stories shape our community. Discover more about their impactful journeys! 📍🏛️ ”

Do you know who Joseph C. Carter was?! 🗣️✨

Starting this week in , we want to introduce you to Joseph C. Carter, the First Director of Sunland Park and Recreation and famously known as a pioneer with the introduction of Playday in 1953. 🫡 Playday provided community youths the opportunity to participate in track and field events. 🏃🏃‍♀️

In 1994 Brother Carter was honored by Broward County Parks and Recreation with the renaming of Sunland Park to Joseph C. Carter Park to honor his commitment as a community leader and in youth development. 🌳 Under his leadership, several professional athletes grew up developing their skills at Carter Park including NFL players Michael Irvin, Bennie, and Brian Blades. 💪

Today, Playday at Carter Park is known as David Deal Playday honor of David Deal Sr., a longtime Broward County Educator, coach, and community director.

✨Empowering the present, celebrating the past in the City of Fort Lauderdale. Join us in honoring Black history all month long!✊🏿📚

Keep an eye out for exciting events across the city and employee highlights! 🗣️🎉

🌳🌳 Tu B’Shevat is a Jewish holiday that marks the beginning of the “New Year for Trees”. During this season, the earliest-blooming trees in Israel emerge from their winter dormancy and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.

🍇Tu B’Shevat is traditionally celebrated by eating fruit, particularly, those praised in the Torah such as grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives and dates. Today, the holiday is also observed by planting trees to raise ecological awareness.

💫 All the details are on the posted flyer. See you there!

🚨FREE SCHOLARSHIP FAIR ALERT! 🚨

The Infinite Scholars and YMCA of South Florida will be hosting a scholarship fair with the attendance of over 30 colleges! 📚📍

Infinite Scholars has provided $2 million in scholarships and financial aid 🏆 It’s an opportunity you don’y want anyone to miss!

Join us to honor and celebrate !

The City’s administrative offices will be closed on Monday, January 15, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Offices will reopen on Tuesday, January 16.

UPDATE:

FPL crews are actively working to restore power to affected areas.

City crews are clearing debris from roadways.

The City is working with our vendors to schedule bulk pickup. Additional information will be shared when that is scheduled.

Residents should take caution driving through the area as downed power lines and debris could cause dangerous conditions.

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An apparent tornado touched down earlier this evening near Las Olas and the Intracoastal. There have been no reports of injuries so far. Fort Lauderdale Fire crews are assessing the damage, which appears to be minor.

The public should be cautious of any debris and downed power lines in the area.

FFort Lauderdale Police DepartmentFFort Lauderdale Fire RescueCCity of Fort Lauderdale Parks and Recreation

It’s that time of the year again!☀️ The FY 2025 Grants for Fort Lauderdale Beach events are open! Apply by Feb 29, 2024 and make your event a beachfront highlight! 🌴

For details and application visit ftlcity.info/bbidgrant 🔗

🏖️✨

Wishing you and yours a prosperous and festive new year!

🌟 Nominate Your Local Legends for the 2024 Walk of Fame! 🌟

📅 Deadline EXTENDED: Friday, January 12, 5:00 p.m. 🚨

City of Fort Lauderdale Walk of Fame, established in 2010, honors those who’ve made lasting impacts in our community. The tradition began with the legendary Connie Francis in 2010, commemorating the 50th Anniversary of “Where the Boys Are.”

Nominees are recognized for their contributions to:

✨ Inspiring the future of our youth
✨ Enhancing our citizens’ quality of life
✨ Fostering community spirit
✨ Bringing positive attention to Fort Lauderdale
✨ Making the city an ideal place to live, work, or play
✨ Promoting Fort Lauderdale as a premier destination

As a tribute, each honoree receives a personalized paver on the Walk of Fame, located on the beach at A1A and Las Olas Boulevard. The announcement takes place at the Great American Beach Party, tentatively scheduled for Memorial Day Weekend.

Ready to nominate someone outstanding? 🏆 Fill out the form here 🔗ftlcity.info/wof2024. For inquiries, reach out to Joshua Carden at [email protected], or Melissa Mata at [email protected].

Let’s celebrate the remarkable individuals shaping our city’s legacy! 🎉       

Please join us in congratulating Croissant Park Elementary for receiving a $50,000 donation to their STEM program from and Sunshine Gasoline!

We thank all the partners including the whose generosity is changing the lives of students in Fort Lauderdale!

Thank you 🌴 for inviting us to this year’s 🌐

The had a great time learning from different companies about the future of AI and how we can continue to be a smart city! 👩‍💻👨‍💻

Please keep monitoring our Social Channels -
as of 12 14 23 at 10:30 AM, the Parade
is going on Rain or Shine

🏈 The stage is set for the Inaugural !

Media day was busy Tuesday with coaches and supporters.

Come be a part of history and meet us starting at 7:30pm tonight!