Holiday Spirit In Hallandale Beach: Take Some Time To Enjoy The Sights And Sounds Of The Holiday

In the past, each child was given $125 Dollars to pick out gifts at Walmart. While it was always a wonderful event when COVID-19 was stuck there needed to be a work around. This new spin allows PAL to select the most needed children to have a special day.

They share what gift they want from Santa. PAL and Kiwanis Volunteers set up Foster Park. The children got a chance to spend time with officers and volunteers building Gingerbread Houses and then got the chance to meet Santa and receive their favorite gift.

On Monday, I had the opportunity to host Hope For The Holidays! This was the second year that I along with the Non-Profit had the chance to spread cheer to our local students. Hope For The Holidays! was an event that was held at Foster Park. Originally Sandy Atkins and her church family put the event together. After years of community service, Sandy retired. I always loved the event and decided to adopt it.

In partnership with many Donors and Volunteers, Hope For The Holidays! was able to hold the second event serving our children from the community, The Hepburn Center and PAL. Gulfstream Park opened the Flamingo Room this year and served cookies, mini cakes and hot chocolate while the children took turns picking out three gifts each. They had a chance to meet and get to take a picture with Santa.

As the saying goes, it takes a village! First and foremost, Chateau D'Everose and Eve Paul always do an amazing job organizing and putting on events. Eve Paul, who is one of the owners and a Hallandale Beach resident, is one of the most dedicated and creative event planners. I had the fortune of meeting Eve when I was looking for an assistant to help with my planning and work during COVID-19. She also has other spin off businesses that help me with my social media.

In addition to her involvement, we had many business partners step up and donate with contributions, toys and volunteering. Rodriguez Charities, Big Easy, PAL, Crosstown Towing, Dr. Harry A. Cooper Hallandale Beach Orthopedics, Florida Horseman Benevolent Association, Chef Holmes Foundation, Smatt Tennis who hosted a Doubles Round Robin, The Civic Association, Sharon’s Dream, About Community, Chen Medical and many residents.

The lights are finally on the boulevard. While it is a smaller display than years past, at least we got it done this year. Commissioner Lazarow, Vice Mayor Lima-Taub and I also met to discuss placing a Menorah and Manger Display at city Hall and those will be up soon too.

The Hepburn Center hosted their Multicultural Holiday Show on Tuesday. The Hepburn Center provides an After-School Program for school age children up to Middle School. This program was created many years ago by Former Mayor Lanner and his wonderful wife. They also created Friends Of The Hepburn Center which raises funds to help offset the costs of the program. The program is a recognized success and while the City helps to fund the educational services, the City also receives funding from the State.

Hallandale Beach - Aventura Rotary will continue with their annual tradition of the holiday sled. The Rotary Club has celebrated over 65 years of service. The Santa sled goes around the city on Christmas eve. They go to every area of the city so be on the lookout for Santa and Mrs. Claus who'll be sharing goodwill and candy. You can visit their Facebook Page for the schedule.

Do not forget we have right here in Hallandale Beach voted one of the best Christmas Displays. The Symphony Of Lights has free shows on the hour at Gulfstream Park every evening until Christmas Eve.

So, while we are all gearing up for the holidays, take some time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Holiday! Sharing the spirit is as simple as a warm smile and being courteous. It seems that many of us have forgotten civility and that we are all one community. If you are struggling, please reach out. The Hepburn Center has social workers and can connect you with services. Our CRA also has Rental Assistance Programs to help if you are dealing with increased rents. Visit the City’s website or the Hallandale Beach CRA’s website for more information.

As always, I am available for your questions, concerns and ideas to help make our City a better place! Please feel free to reach out to me at my office: (954) 457-1318. On my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or email me at: jcooper@cohb.org.