City issues proclamations recognizing therapy animals, Zeta Psi anniversary, Arbor Day, financial literacy and Walk Like MADD

Fort Lauderdale commissioners opened the April 16 meeting with five presentations and proclamations celebrating local organizations and causes.

Vice Mayor Steve Glassman presented a proclamation recognizing April 30, 2024, as National Therapy Animal Day in Fort Lauderdale; Anne from the Jack and Jill Center described therapy dogs’ positive effects on early-education students, citing improved reading and attendance.

The commission also presented a proclamation to the Zeta Psi chapter of Omega Psi Phi recognizing its 70th anniversary. Representatives thanked the commission and expressed interest in further city partnership efforts.

Commissioner Sturman read an Arbor Day proclamation and introduced Laura Toole, the city’s urban forester, who praised the city’s urban forestry master-planning work and canopy goals (the proclamation cites a target canopy goal and participation in the Arbor Day Foundation’s programs).

Commissioner Herbst presented a Financial Literacy Month proclamation; a Junior Achievement representative described JA programs that serve thousands of students in Broward and neighboring counties.

Finally, the mayor and commissioners proclaimed April 2024 as Walk Like MADD and Mad Dash month to support Mothers Against Drunk Driving events on April 28; Heather Geronimus of MADD Broward described the event’s mission and personal reasons for organizing it.