Remember Hurricane Irma? Many homes without power, traffic was terrible and essential items were hard to get. Well folks, the start of hurricane season is only a few months away and the officials at FEMA are suggesting that we all get prepared with supplies and a plan before a bad storm is breathing down our necks. Here’s what they are telling us:
“Disasters, whether natural or manmade, can happen anywhere, any time of the year. Keeping a disaster supply kit ready at all times is essential for emergencies. Have a plan for what your family will do when disaster strikes. A disaster kit is a collection of basic items needed in the event of an emergency, and can be assembled well in advance; evacuation orders can come with little notice at a moment’s notice. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. Have enough food, water and other necessities, including all medications, in sufficient quantity for each family member to last for at least 72 hours. FEMA.gov has a list of recommended emergency supplies. Consider what your family might need, such as supplies for individuals with disabilities, children, seniors or pets, and protection against the Florida weather. Insect repellent and sunscreen should be in all your kits, as well as rainproof gear for everyone.”
MySafeFlorida.org also has a list of suggested items for your disaster supply kit.
Maintaining a disaster supply kit is important, too. They suggest that you keep items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supply kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as an unused trashcan, camping backpack or duffel bag. Prepare emergency supplies for home, work and vehicles. “If stranded when driving, stay in your car, put on your flashers, call for help and wait until it arrives.” For information, visit www.ready.gov, www.FEMA.gov/IrmaFL or follow @FEMARegion4 on Twitter and on FEMA’s Facebook page.
Mark this on your calendars if you’re into yachting. The next meeting of the Black Point Yacht Club will be on April 11 at 7:30 p.m. at Golden Rule Seafood, located at 17505 S Dixie Hwy, Palmetto Bay.
Better hurry for this! The Cutler Bay Community Fund is accepting grant applications. Grant awards range between $500 to $2,500. The deadline to apply for this quarter is March 30, 2018.
“The Town of Cutler Bay established the Cutler Bay Community Fund in 2013 with the goal of establishing partnerships that will help to improve the quality of life of residents in our community.” The Cutler Bay Community Fund seeks to provide support to 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organizations including; but not limited to, schools, community based organizations, community associations, and faith based organizations. The Fund currently has six service categories: educational, aesthetic, environmental, cultural, social services, and other philanthropic activities. For info go to www.cutlerbay-fl.gov/home/showdocument?id=9508. For the application go to www.cutlerbay-fl.gov/home/showdocument?id=9514.
The next Village Regular Council Meeting for Palmetto Bay will be on April 2 from 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Village Hall. awards, presentations, and proclamations will commence at approximately 6:30 Pp.m.
Community Center Study Workshop. Ballard King & Associates, LTD will host a Community Center Study Workshop on Thursday, April 5, at 7:00 p.m. at Village of Palmetto Bay Municipal Center, 9705 East Hibiscus Street, Palmetto Bay. “The Community Center Study Workshop is for the purposes of gathering public input concerning a feasibility study regarding the proposed construction of a community center on the 2-acre site approved for purchase from Shores at Palmetto Bay, LLC located at SW 97th Avenue and SW 178th Street.”
Palmetto Bay residents, “Senior Game Day” takes place on the first Thursday of each month from May to September, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location is in the Edward & Arlene Feller Community Room at Ludovici Park, 17641 Old CutlerRoad. There’ll be speakers, health screenings, games and activities, and lunch (sponsored by Councilmember Karyn Cunningham). They say that advance registration is “strongly encouraged” so visit www.palmettobay-fl.gov or call 305-259-1234.
Wings Over the Bay…The 3rd Annual Wings Over the Bay Chicken Wing Cook-off is on April 7 from 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at Cutler Ridge Park, 10100 SW 200 Street in Cutler Bay. Competition will be in three categories: Buffalo, Special Grill and Parmesan Garlic. Trophies and prize money will be awarded. There’ll be live music by Ricky Valido. Admission is free. For info call Maria Blaylock at 786-573-5576 or email her at Mblaylock@cutlerbay-fl.gov. For the Chef Entry Form go to www.cutlerbay-fl.gov/home/showdocument?id=11529.
Thought of the Day:
Whenever I hear, ‘It can’t be done,’ I know I’m close to success. – Michael Flatley
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.
