Extension Education Offers Landscaper Certification

State law now requires certification for landscape maintenance workers who apply fertilizer for hire, in an effort to avoid runoff that could ruin the water supply. Broward County Extension Education agents offer training to green industry workers, in both English and Spanish, using materials developed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

To date, Extension Agents have conducted eight classes to 267 individuals, 77 percent of whom received their Green Industry Best Management Practices (BMP) certification. Ninety-eight percent of participants responding to a survey said the classes increased their understanding of lawn and landscape BMPs and how they help protect Florida’s environment. For more information, call Broward County Extension Education at 954-357-5270.

Libraries Division’s New Video is Reminder of Internet Safety

Broward County Libraries Division has released a 60-second public service announcement, available on Broward County’s Video Central, to remind parents and children to be cautious when using the Internet. The video features “Cyber Sue,” a fictional persona created by the Libraries Division and local entertainer Suzy Hammer, who provides tips to help keep families safe from online dangers.

To view the new Cyber Safety video, visit www.broward.org and click VIDEO CENTRAL, select COMMUNITY. For more information on the Internet Safety program, contact Libraries’ Youth Services section at 954-357-7470 or visit www.broward.org/library and click CHILDREN & TEENS.

Port Everglades Master/Vision Plan Update Gains Approval

The Broward County Board of County Commissioners has approved an update of the Port Everglades 20-Year Master/Vision Plan that includes new market projections and plans for increased berth space.

The Board directed staff in 2007 to conduct biennial updates to ensure that it accounts for changes in market conditions. A team of consultants performed this update, which is the first since the original plan was adopted. The entire Port Everglades Master/Vision Plan can be found at www.broward.org/port/masterplan. For more information on Port Everglades visit www.porteverglades.net.

Broward County Begins 2012 Budget Workshop Discussions

Broward County Commissioners held the first workshop to discuss the 2012 budget on March 1 and five additional budget workshops are tentatively scheduled prior to the state-mandated public hearings, which take place on September 13 and September 27 at 5:01 p.m. in the Commission Chambers, Room 422. View the budget workshops live at www.broward.org, click VIDEO CENTRAL. Documents pertaining to the 2012 Budget Workshop and information about the budget process can be found at www.broward.org/budget.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program Opens Satellite Office

Residents of Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coconut Creek and Lighthouse Point do not have to travel to Fort Lauderdale to receive assistance with their Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Application. Residents can call 954-357-5025 to schedule an appointment to receive LIHEAP Assistance from a representative at a new satellite location housed in the Annie L. Weaver Health Center and Family Success Center, 2011 N.W. Third Ave., Pompano Beach.

Broward County Parks Expand Operating Hours

The Broward County Parks and Recreation Division has announced expanded hours of operation at four regional County parks. The expansion of service brings to eight the total number of County park facilities that are open seven days a week for recreation and the public’s enjoyment. Call the park of your choice for more information.

• The four parks with expanded hours of operation are: Brian Piccolo Park & Velodrome, Cooper City, 954-357-5150; C. B. Smith Park, 954-357-5170; Hollywood North Beach Park, 954-357-5187; and Quiet Waters Park, Deerfield Beach, 954-357-5100.

• Parks already open on a daily basis are: Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium, Lauderhill, 954-357-5400; Markham Park & Target Range, Sunrise, 954-357-8868; Tradewinds Park, Coconut Creek, 954-357-8870; and T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park, 954-357-8811.

 Commuter Program Benefits Employers and Their Employees

Broward County Transit (BCT) has a program to help residents beat the high price of gasoline, save on out-of-pocket commuting costs, and contribute toward a healthier environment. Through participation in Ride-and-Save, a pre-tax commuter benefit program, employees can save money by purchasing BCT bus passes with pre-tax dollars through their employers, who in turn save money on year-end payroll taxes. Employer registration is required. To schedule an appointment for a presentation on the Ride-and-Save program and for more information, call Broward County Transit at 954-357-8311 or go to www.broward.org/bct and click FARES AND PASSES.

 Broward County Kicks Off Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April

Broward County joins the rest of the nation in observing Sexual Assault Awareness and Child Abuse Prevention Month during April. The Sexual Assault Treatment Center will promote the prevention of sexual violence through special events and public education during the observance throughout the month. This year’s themes are “Broward Aware - Protect Our Children” and “It’s time…to get involved,” underscoring the fact that sexual assault and child abuse are intolerable crimes affecting everyone. There are several activities planned. Call 954-765-4159 for more information. More...

Airport’s North Runway Scheduled for Closure

The North Runway (9L/27R) at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport will be closed from Tuesday, May 3, through Thursday, July 7, for up to 65 days to complete a number of critical construction projects and to install several safety enhancement features. During the construction period, departing and arriving flights will use the Diagonal Runway (13/31). Weekly construction updates and FAQs will be posted on the airport’s Web site at www.fll.net.