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Parkland City Commission: Michael Udine, Mayor; Christine Hunschofsky, Vice Mayor; Stacy Kagan, Deputy Vice Mayor; Mark Weissman, Commissioner; David Rosenof, Commissioner. City Manager: Caryn Gardner-Young

City News


City of Parkland Annual Scholarship Applications Now Available
The City of Parkland annually awards scholarships to Parkland residents for post-secondary education. The scholarship is in recognition of outstanding community or civic service. This scholarship is made possible through The City of Parkland, the Parkland Education Advisory Board and the Parkland Teen Advisory Group and is open to all Parkland students in public school, private school or homeschool students. The completed application and all supporting materials must be received by 4:00pm on January 31, 2014. To download the application, please click here or call Scott Davidoff, Public Information Officer at 954-757-4126.

Mayor’s Top Teen Program
The City of Parkland is a community that values teens and promotes the positive impact they have in our City. This year the City of Parkland will once again honor a Parkland resident that stands out among the rest of his/her fellow students with the Top Teen Award. Students in the 9th, 10th, and or 11th grade may be nominated for this award. This program seeks nominees who have overcome obstacles and are good role models to other students and the community. Teachers, friends, counselors, clergy, and family members with the exception of parents, may nominate students they feel represent these values. All Parkland students (public, private, and homeschooled) who meet the guidelines may be nominated to take part in this opportunity. To download the application please click this link. The application deadline is Friday, December 20, 2013.

Barkland Dog Park To Operate Under New Seasonal Schedule
Beginning Monday, November 25th, Barkland Dog Park will open at 7:00am until Daylight Savings Time. During Daylight Saving Time the Park will open at 7:30am. Closing time will continue to be at sunset

City Offices Will Be Closed On Thursday, November 28th and Friday, November 29th In Observance of Thanksgiving
City offices and the Library will be closed on Thursday, November 28th and Friday, November 29th in observance of Thanksgiving. City Parks will close at 6:00pm.

Parkland Library Events

Knit N Knowledge
Monday, December 2nd 10:30am
Want to learn how to knit? Here’s your pass to knitting class! Join others at the Parkland Library as we learn the basics of knitting! New beginners should arrive early at 10:00am and will need to bring two size 8 knitting needles and 2 worsted weight yarns.Register here or call (954)757-4207.

Don’t Put It in a Safe Place…Put It Where You’ll Find It Financial Planning
Tuesday, December 3rd 6:00pm
Would you like to learn the techniques to help you organize your important (and necessary) papers. Explore the steps and procedures you should do now to maintain control of your financial health. Develop personal financial savvy in an encouraging environment. Presented by Ida Epstein, Certified Financial Planner and an Investment Advisor Representative.Register here or call (954)757-4207.

Chess for Adults
Wednesday, December 4th 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Are you interested in the game of chess? Come to the library and play with other chess fans! Any level of experience welcome.Register here or call (954)757-4207

Tales to Tails
Thursday, December 12th 4:00pm
Come to the Parkland Library and read to Daisy, a therapy dog. This program is developed to encourage independent reading and increase reading fluency. Each child can read for about 5 minutes. This program is for children 5 to12 years old. Register here or call (954)757-4207.

Environmental Program: Citizens Science Project
Friday, December 13th @3:30pm
As a part of the City’s new environmental programs the Parkland Library presents the Citizens Science Project. Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to collect data on the natural environment, planting native trees and shrubs. Individuals will also be able to learn how to create wildlife habitats in their backyard and gain information on concepts related to ecology and other natural sciences. Register here or call 954 757-4200

Teen Film discussion: “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey”
Saturday, December 14 @1:00pm
Come catch up with your Lord of the rings movie series as we enjoy fresh popcorn and watch “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” before you see “The Hobbit 2: The Desolation of Smaug in theaters. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey tells the story of a younger and more reluctant Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, sets out on an "unexpected journey" to the Lonely Mountain with a spirited group of Dwarves to reclaim their stolen mountain home from a dragon named Smaug. After the movie participants will get a chance to discuss their thoughts on the film and what to expect for the upcoming movie “The Hobbit 2: The Desolation of Smaug”. Register here or call 954 757-4200


Parks and Recreation Events

City of Parkland Farmers Market
Sunday, December 1, 2013 9AM to 1PM
Equestrian Center – 8350 Ranch Road

We are proud to announce that The City of Parkland Farmer’s Market is returning for its seventh year, sponsored by Mercantil Commercebank. Join us on December 1, 2013 from 9:00am till 1:00pm at the Equestrian Center, 8350 Ranch Road, Parkland, FL 33067. Special appearance and performance by the Lady Panther’s & Stanley C. Panther. Hourly cash raffles presented by our sponsor along with a free tote for all your shopping needs, music, Kids Corner with bounce house, face painting, games and so much more! Over 90 vendors will be selling everything from fresh produce, plants, flowers and array of delicious gourmet foods. Some vendors accept credit cards, but most only accept cash. For more information, please contact Melissa Soto, Program Specialist, at 954-757-4120 or msoto@cityofparkland.org. Hope to see YOU there!

Adult Outdoor Bocce Ball
Tuesday, December 3rd, 2013
10:00AM-11:30AM
Pine Trails Park, - 10555 Trails End – Field #5
Presented by Northwest Medical Center

The City of Parkland Parks and Recreation Department and the Northwest Medical Center present Adult Outdoor Bocce Ball. This activity will be held the first Tuesday of each month from 10:00am to 11:30am at Pine Trails Park, Field #5, (10555 Trails End). This is a fun way to get exercise and socialize at the same time. Beginners and advanced players are welcome. This activity includes equipment. For more information, contact Tammy Lustig, Program Specialist at 954-757-4142 or tlustig@cityofparkland.org.

Parkland Walkabouts Walking Program
Friday, December 6, 2013
9:00AM-10:00AM
Terramar Park – 6575 MW 75th Drive, meet at the large pavilion
Presented by Northwest Medical Center

Life is a walk in the park! The City of Parkland Parks and Recreation Department has a seven-month walking program sponsored by Northwest Medical Center. This program aids participants in walking their way to an overall better fitness level and quality of life. The group meets on the first and third Friday each month at 9:00am, alternating monthly between Pine Trails and Terramar Parks. Participants will be rewarded for participation and are encouraged to walk on their own on other days. The program is free of charge and open to all aged 21 and over (no strollers please). Advanced registration is required; however you may join at any time (We will skip the 3rd Friday in December due to the holidays; the next meeting after this one will be at 9:00am on Friday, January 3rd at Pine Trails Park by the concession stand). For more information or to register, please contact Tammy Lustig, Program Specialist at tlustig@cityofparkland.org or 954-757-4142.

Holiday Social Potluck Lunch for Seniors
Friday, December 6, 2013
11:00AM-1:00PM
Liberty Park Pavilion- 9200 Ranch Road

It’s that time of year already... let’s all celebrated the holiday season with our friends old and new, over a fun-filled pot luck lunch! This event is free of charge for Parkland residents aged 62 and over currently registered with Parks and Recreation. Participants are asked to each bring a special food dish and a grab bag gift valued at $10 if you'd like to be in the grab bag - one for men and one for women. We'll supply all the rest. This year's theme will be... drumroll please: "Holidays in the Tropics." Get your island on and let's capture the laid back vibe of vacationing in the tropics right here in Parkland! In case of island rain, no worries - we'll party on in the activity room at City Hall. For more information or to register, contact Tammy Lustig, Program Specialist at 954-757-4142 or email tlustig@cityofparkland.org.

Concert in the Park-London Legends (Beatles and Foreigner Tribute Bands)
December 7, 2013
7:00pm-8:30pm
Pine Trails Amphetheater-10561 Trails End, Parkland

The City of Parkland and Northwest Medical Center are proud to announce London Legends a Beatles and Foreigner tribute band coming to the Parkland Amphitheater located in Pine Trails Park on December 7, 2013 from 7:00-8:30PM. The food trucks will be on site and begin serving food at 6:00PM. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to join your fellow parrot head friends and neighbors for this spectacular FREE family event and performance. No tents, pets or alcoholic beverages are allowed within the park. For more information please contact Caitlin Crossin, Recreation Specialist at 954-757-4113 or ccrossin@cityofparkland.org.

Annual Holiday House Decorating Contest
Thursday, December 12th
7:30pm – 9:30pm
The City of Parkland announces its annual Home Decorating Contest for Parkland Residents. On December 12, 2013 judging will take place by City Employees from 7:30pm-9:30pm. Think your home has the best seasonal decorations? Be sure to fill out the official entry form by clicking here to enter your home for a chance to win dinner for four at a local Parkland Restaurant. All applications must be turned in by December 9th and online voting will take place on our website as well. For more information, contact Caitlin Crossin, Program Specialist at 954-757-4113 or ccrossin@cityofparkland.org.

Coast Guard Boating Safety Course
Saturday, December 14, 2013
8:30AM-4:00PMCity
Hall Activity Room - 6600 University Drive
Registration is open now, limited space available – secure your spot today!

A concise 1-day course taught by the US Coast Guard, you will learn all about the Federal Regulations in the State of Florida, seamanship, how a boat operates and how to handle one, how to load a boat so it balances properly, navigating in rough seas, proper docking and much more. Cost is $36 with multi-family member discounts available. All materials are included and participants will receive a certification card upon completion. Advance Registration is required and checks should be made payable to Coast Guard Floatilla 54. Please contact GerriAnn Dougherty at 954-757-4129 or email gdougherty@cityofparkland.org or additional information or to register for the class.

Teen Advisory Group Car Wash
Saturday, December 14, 2013
10:00AM-1:00PM
7/11 Gas Station - Westview Drive and University Drive
The City of Parkland’s Teen Advisory Group will be holding their 4th semi-annual Car Wash on Saturday, December 14, 2013 from 10AM to 1PM at the 7/11 Gas Station located on the corner of Westview Drive and University Drive in Coral Springs. The donation will be $5 a car with all proceeds going to the City of Parkland's Teen Advisory Group. Please come out and support the teens in the community for an amazing cause. For further information, please contact Program Manager, GerriAnn Dougherty at (954)757-4129 or email gdougherty@cityofparkland.org.

Winter Talent Showcase Auditions
Ongoing
3:00PM to 4:30PM
Parkland Amphitheater – 10555 Trails End
The Parks and Recreation Department in conjunction with Aston Gardens will be having our seventh annual Winter Talent Show for residents of Aston Gardens on Monday, December 9th from 7:15pm to 8:15pm. Auditions for the show are ongoing. All ages and talents are welcome to audition to participate in this fun holiday event. We are looking for people to perform by dancing, singing and playing musical instruments. You must register for a time slot to audition in advance and perform the act you would like to do in the show. Participants are responsible for providing their own music. For more information, please contact GerriAnn Dougherty, Program Manager at (954)757-4129 or email gdougherty@cityparkland.org.

Adult Open Lawn Croquet
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
10:00AM-11:30AM
Pine Trails Park – 10555 Trails End at Field #4
Presented by Northwest Medical Center
The City of Parkland Parks and Recreation Department and Northwest Medical Center present Adult Open Lawn Croquet on Wednesday, November 20th from 10:00am to 11:30am in Pine Trails Park, 10555 Trails End, at field #4. Croquet is a fantastic way to get outdoors, meet up with friends old and new, get some exercise and socialize all together. Beginners and advanced players are welcome. Participants should wear flat shoes and bring water and sunscreen. There is no fee to play, all equipment is included and the activity is open to all those aged 21 and over. Advance registration is required and there is a limit of 16 participants. For more information, contact Tammy Lustig, Program Specialist at tlustig@cityofparkland.org or 954-757-4142.

Center for Performing Arts in Miami
Sunday, January 26, 2014
12:00PM-6:30PM Adult Paid Trip: Florida Grand Opera "Nabucco" at Adrienne Arsht
Meet at Parkland Amphitheater, 10561 Trails End, Parkland
We’re going to the Opera! Experience the anguish as the King of Babylonia destroys the Temple and forces the Hebrews from their homeland “Nabucco,” the opera that launched the spectacular career of Giuseppe Verdi, one of the greatest Italian opera composers. The curtain rises at 2pm and the show is 3 hours with 2 intermissions. If you love opera or have never seen it before, come and enjoy a lovely afternoon with us! Trip includes ticket and transportation. There is no meal involved in this day; feel free to pack snacks or buy at the concession stands and eat during an intermission. This trip is open to all those aged 50 and over, regardless of residency. Tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis. Please come to the Parks and Recreation office to pay with cash or check, sorry no credit cards accepted for this program. Last day of sales is December 30, 2013 and there are no refunds. For more information, contact Tammy Lustig, Program Specialist at tlustig@cityofparkland.org or 954-757-4142.
$22 - upper balcony (very high up, not recommended for those with vertigo)
$39 - lower balcony
$66 - mezzanine
$79 – orchestra circle