Mary Lou Cruz

Mary Lou worked for the South Florida Sun Sentinel for 21 years. She was a special sections writer in the advertising department for 7 years and worked in the newsroom for 14 years. Before her newspaper career, she worked in the airline and travel industry and has lived in Brazil, Puerto Rico and vacationed in more than 25 countries. Motto: "Learning to live a frugal lifestyle is both an art and a science." She can be reached at marylou@miamionthecheap.com.

Miami-Dade County wants you to save water. The county water and sewer department has several incentives to encourage water conservation through its Every Drop Counts initiative. They are offering a free high-efficiency shower head for bathrooms built prior to 1996. After completing the application, if approved, they will tell you where to go to pick …

While similar items have been available in some schools the past few years, this is the first time a Book Vending Machine, from the Palm Beach County Library System, has been Introduced for public availability. It’s called Library to Go, the latest community resource for library card members to access materials off site. Library to …

Out with the old and in with the new! The Lantana Public Library had been closed so that staff and volunteers could move the book collection, technology, and new furniture into the new library’s permanent home. Then the public helped celebrate the recent reopening. WHERE: Lantana Public Library, 205 W. Ocean Ave, Lantana. 561-540-5745. See …

When evenings are little cooler, many folks like to spend more time outdoors, in nature. And if you are the eco-adventurous type who enjoys daytime birdwatching, owl walks and nature trails or campfires and night hikes, here is a list of some of the best that Miami-Dade Parks have to offer. Check specific park websites …

The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida has reopened. The Village is once again showcasing its tribal arts and culture with crafts, airboat rides and alligator demonstrations. Visitors can observe Miccosukee Indians as they engage in the traditional arts of doll making, beadwork, patchwork and basket weaving. It’s also an opportunity to learn about the …

Getting around Miami Beach is easy and free Now, traveling around this historical, tropical paradise is safer, more comfortable and a lot more fun, due to its transportation options. Here are some efficient alternatives to help cut down on the frustration and time spent behind the wheel when visiting Miami Beach. MiamiBeachTrolley.com offers citywide trolley …