Summer officially begins on June 21 but school will be out a few weeks before that and even now there are weekends and other days when water safety is important. We heard from Miren Oca, the owner of Ocaquatics Swim School – Eureka, near Palmetto Bay, who forwarded us this info from the United States Swim School Association (USSSA) about a report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):
“The revised AAP statement mentions that ‘children and parents should learn to swim and learn water safety skills’ and USSSA couldn’t agree more. Learning to swim is a life skill that affords many benefits to children and adults alike. The AAP recommends, ‘parents should monitor their child’s progress during swim lessons and continue their lessons at least until basic water competence is achieved.’ It is also important to note that swimming is one part of the multiple layers of protection to drowning prevention. The AAP points out that ‘five major interventions are evidence based: 4-sided pool fencing, life jackets, swim lessons, supervision, and lifeguards.’ USSSA and its members will continue to do our part to teach swimming while also educating our families and the public on the importance of water safety and layers of protection. The AAP position statement also included this important tip for parents stating, ‘parents should not use air-filled swimming aids (such as inflatable arm bands, neck rings, or ‘floaties’) in place of life jackets. These aids can deflate and are not designed to keep swimmers safe.’ USSSA also feels that these aids can give young swimmers a false sense of confidence in the water and that they may not be able to distinguish their abilities when not wearing the aids. We too encourage only Coast Guard approved flotation devises when around water. Lisa Zarda, Executive Director USSSA said, ‘We appreciate the efforts that have gone into the creation of this updated position statement and we see this as a step in the right direction to educating the public on the importance of water competency. We are excited to see what the future holds as we work together to make a difference.’”
The Village of Palmetto Bay doesn’t have a municipal swimming pool or swimming lessons. The Town of Cutler Bay does and swimming lessons at Cutler Ridge pool start June 10. It’s located at 10100 SW 200th Street, Cutler Bay, FL 33157. Call 305-238-5344 for info.
Ocaquatics Swim School – Eureka has lessons now in an indoor pool at 11101 SW 176th St, Miami, FL 33157. For info visit www.ocaquatics.com or call 305-969-7946.
Palmetto Bay Meeting Alert! There’s a Special Council Meeting – Drafting Session for the Downtown Urban Village (DUV) Code on April 23 at 6 p.m. at the Village Municipal Center, 9705 East Hibiscus Street, Palmetto Bay, FL 33157. Many people will be interested in this.
There’s another Open Mic Night in Cutler Bay… It’s on April 24 at 7 to 9 p.m. in the East Ridge Auditorium, 19301 SW 87th Avenue, Cutler Bay, Florida 33157. Join your fellow residents at the Town’s Open Mic Night—an official but informal Town Hall meeting where the Town Council and staff welcome your feedback, concerns and general comments regarding our Town. “This meeting is not a time for Council Members to make speeches or take any position on issues. Please share your opinions, ideas and comments in a peaceful and respectful manner with your neighbors.”
Arbor Day Tree Planting Celebration… Cutler Bay residents are invited to this annual event taking place on April 26 at 9 a.m. at Cutler Ridge Park, 10100 SW 200 Street, Cutler Bay, Florida 33157.
Senior Programs in Palmetto Bay… Starting in May, an entire schedule of Senior Programs will be offered at the historic, newly renovated Perrine Community House at Palmetto Bay. Classes include Floral arranging, Tempo Technology, Knitting, Art Classes, a Domino Tournament, and of course, Senior Game Day. Please remember that some programs are fee based and some are FREE. You need to remember to RSVP even for those programs that are free so they can make sure there is plenty of space for everyone. Use the link below to RSVP and also register for these programs, including Senior Game Day.
www.123formbuilder.com/for…/senior-programs-2018-2019. If you need assistance with online registration, call the Parks & Recreation Department at 305-259-1246.
Thought of the Day:
In a moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing. The worst thing you can do is nothing. – Theodore Roosevelt
Gary Alan Ruse contributed to this column.
Got any tips? Contact me at 305-669-7355, ext. 249, or send emails to Michael@communitynewspapers.com.
