Even in this new season, we have all witnessed over the past few weeks that life as we knew it changed in an instance and we were not prepared. With hurricane season starting June 1st, we must get prepared now. Hurricanes can be life-threatening and can cause serious damage to our properties from flooding, storm surges, high winds and tornadoes. While we can't stop a tropical storm or hurricane, you can take steps now to protect yourself, your family and your property:

1. Determine your risk.
2. Develop an evacuation plan.
3. Secure an insurance check-up.
4. Assemble disaster supplies.
5. Strengthen your home.
6. Identify your trusted sources of information for a hurricane.
7. Make a list of important phone numbers.
8. Complete your written hurricane plan.

By starting early, you’ll avoid the rush at home supply stores, grocery stores and other venues typically overcrowded and often chaotic when hurricane watches and warnings are issued. These preparedness steps are key to safely weathering a storm or any other disaster. For more information and to sign up for Broward’s emergency alert notification system, visit Broward.org/Hurricane. For additional information visit nhc.noaa.gov and www.weather.gov/hurricanesafety.

As your District 8 Broward County Commissioner for the past 9 years, I thank you for your continued service and support of our local communities. Together we are making a difference and positively shaping the neighborhoods that we live in. It is a privilege to work every day to make a difference in the lives of our residents. I wish you a joyous and prosperous season.

Barbara

I welcome your comments and want to hear which issues are important to you. Send an email to me at bsharief@broward.org or call my office at 954-357-7008. Also, check out the Barbara Sharief Facebook page at Facebook.com/barbara.sharief.3 or follow me at Twitter.com/bestmom39 or on Instagram at @barbarasharief.

Preventing the Spread of Germs

Everyone should be following standard recommendations to prevent the spread of respiratory diseases like COVID-19:

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use hand sanitizers at home and in the workplace
• If you are sick, stay home, and follow the advice of your health care provider
• Cough and sneeze into your elbow, not your hands or into a tissue which should immediately be discarded; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Avoid close contact with anyone showing respiratory symptoms (breathing difficulties, cough, runny nose)
• Avoid touching public surfaces - credit card machines, gas pumps, hand railings, elevators. Use a tissue or paper towel when touching surfaces
• Over-the-counter masks are recommended and maybe required for the public at this time
• Evaluate your travel plans as conditions warrant; you should rethink traveling to areas that are already under a travel advisory or areas that are experiencing an outbreak of Coronavirus
  

Just like the flu, certain groups may be at higher risk, including the elderly. Individuals who believe they are experiencing any of the symptoms should contact their health care professional and follow their advice.

For additional information, visit FloridaHealth.gov, cdc.gov or call the Broward County Call Center COVID-19 Hotline at 954-357-9500.

​	Easter Easter is swiftly approaching — which means it's time for chocolate bunnies and egg hunts! While celebrating with the yummiest Easter candy and chocolates, it's also important to remember what this springtime holiday is really about: the season of renewal. This religious day marks rebirth in many different ways, from the bloom of spring flowers after a long winter to the Christian celebration of the resurrection. Please enjoy this time with family and friends.
​Motor Vehicle Title and Registration Renewal You can renew your motor vehicle, mobile home, vessel and disabled parking permit online at www.renewexpress.com/broward/renewals Certificate of Title (Motor Vehicle/Vessel) Renew Registration Registration Information Insurance Requirements Selling a Vehicle New to Florida Change of Address Specialty License Plates Motor Vehicle, Mobile Home and Vessel Forms Access Title History information Please visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles for additional information at www.flhsmv.gov
Mother’s Day On Sunday, May 10th, we will observe Mother’s Day. Mother’s Day is widely celebrated as a special day to honor all mothers and motherhood. Together, let’s honor the women who raised us—and all the mothers who sacrificed for their children. Time with family is probably most important to mom. Even a phone call is appreciated. Make plans now to do something special for your mother(s). Spending time with family, sending flowers, calling, making homemade cards, making their favorite dish are all ways we can thank the special women in our lives. Remember to take family photos as well.		​
​	​Memorial Day Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the brave men and women who died while serving in the U.S. Military. Memorial Day 2020 occurs on Monday, May 25th. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season. ​
​Grilled Glazed Drummies Ingredients 1 cup ketchup 1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce 4 teaspoons honey 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 3 pounds fresh or frozen chicken drumettes, thawed Optional: Sliced green onions and ranch dressing Directions In a small bowl, combine the first 5 ingredients. Pour 1 cup marinade into a large shallow dish. Add the chicken; turn to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Cover and refrigerate remaining marinade for basting. Drain chicken, discarding marinade. Grill, covered, over medium heat for 15-20 minutes or until juices run clear, turning and basting occasionally with reserved marinade. If desired, top with sliced green onions and serve with ranch dressing © 2020 RDA Enthusiast Brands, LLC
​	Father’s Day Sunday, June 14th is Father’s Day, and many will take this time to celebrate with families and friends. Father's Day is a relatively modern holiday, so different families have different traditions. These can range from a simple phone call or greeting card to large parties honoring all father figures in an extended family. Father figures can include fathers, stepfathers, fathers-in-law, grandfathers, great-grandfathers and even other male relatives. Father’s Day is the perfect time to fire up the grill, whether it’s in your backyard, at the beach or at a Broward County Park. We’ve even included a great recipe for your party. Hope you enjoy the Grilled Glazed Drummies recipe.
​District 8 Town Hall Meetings On February 6th, 18th & 20th, I hosted Town Hall Meetings for the residents of District 8. They were provided with information on FDOT transportation projects, surtax projects, public works projects, small business opportunities and getting registered to be a Broward County vendor.