Mark Sanders: The Voice Of Barry Manilow Fri Jun 09 2023 16:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

American Airlines Receives AJCF Medal of Valor Award for Extraordinary Compassion & Moral Leadership Following Antisemitic Terror Attack Jewish Connection News Jul 29, 2026 At Its 2026 Annual Gala, the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation (AJCF) Presented American Airlines With Its Medal Of Valor Award In Recognition Of An Extraordinary Act Of Compassion And Moral Leadership Following The December 2025 Terrorist Attack Targeting A Chanukah Celebration In Sydney, Australia, Which Killed 15 People And Injured Approximately 40 Others. Among Those Murdered Was Chabad Rabbi Eli Schlanger, A Husband, Father Of Five And Beloved Chabad Emissary. The award honors American Airlines employees who worked across departments and continents to ensure that one of Rabbi Schlanger’s childhood friends could travel from the United States to Sydney in time to attend the rabbi’s funeral, overcoming significant logistical obstacles and demonstrating extraordinary compassion during a moment of profound grief. In the day following the attack, Rabbi Schlanger’s childhood friend departed Miami on American Airlines for Los Angeles, where he was scheduled to connect to Sydney on another carrier. When delays caused him to miss that flight, it appeared he would be unable to reach Sydney in time for the funeral. After learning of the passenger’s circumstances, American Airlines employees took extraordinary action. According to information confirmed by American Airlines, American Airlines crew coordinated with the passenger mid-flight via the Captain and confirmed the passenger would switch to American Airlines’ flight from Los Angeles to Sydney. They then coordinated a change in arrival gates at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for the flight from Miami and before landing the crew on the plane moved him to a seat at the front of the aircraft. They held American Airlines’ flight to Sydney while coordinating a seamless transfer including having him disembark the plane first, and American Airlines ground personnel at LAX met him at the jetway and brought him to the awaiting Sydney flight which was now only two gates over. In the end, American Airlines opted to provide a complimentary ticket to the friend, while ensuring that Rabbi Schlanger’s childhood friend arrived in Sydney in time to stand beside his lifelong friend’s family and say a final goodbye. The recognition carries particular significance for AJCF, which has become a leading advocate for Jewish travelers facing antisemitic discrimination in commercial aviation. Over the past three years, the Foundation has filed numerous complaints involving incidents of antisemitism and religious discrimination affecting airline passengers around the world. Those incidents have included discriminatory treatment directed at Jewish travelers, as well as reported instances involving the tampering of kosher meals and other forms of antisemitic conduct. Against that backdrop, American Airlines’ actions stood out as an example of exceptional compassion, professionalism and leadership. “At a moment when the Jewish community was mourning one of the most devastating antisemitic terrorist attacks in recent memory, American Airlines demonstrated what genuine humanity looks like,” said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Director General Jack Simony. “The employees who coordinated this effort, including Zak Rakrouki and Mohamad Najjar, showed extraordinary empathy and compassion during a moment of profound grief. Holding a flight to Sydney so a grieving friend could attend the funeral of his childhood friend was far more than exceptional customer service. It was an act of moral leadership that reflected a culture where operational excellence and human compassion go hand in hand. “We also recognize Chief Executive Officer Robert Isom, the leadership team and the more than 130,000 members of the American Airlines family. Acts like these begin with extraordinary individuals, but they are only possible in an organization that empowers people to do what is right when it matters most. At a time when many Jews feel compelled to conceal visible expressions of their identity while traveling because of rising antisemitism, this act of compassion resonates far beyond a single journey. It reminds Jewish communities around the world that, beyond the noise of social media and the rhetoric of hate, there remain friends, allies and people of conscience who choose humanity over indifference and stand with the Jewish people.” Rabbi Schlanger, a Chabad emissary, husband and father of five, was among the 15 people murdered in the attack. His death sent shockwaves through Jewish communities around the world and transformed an evening intended to celebrate Jewish life into one of the darkest days in the history of Australia’s Jewish community. American Airlines employees in Los Angeles, Sydney and the airline’s Integrated Operations Center worked together to make what many believed was impossible happen. Their flight to Sydney was held, gates were reassigned to shorten transfer times, and personnel were positioned to escort the passenger through the airport so he could continue his journey. “I’m so proud of our team,” said Robert Isom, American Airlines CEO. “Caring for people on life’s journey isn’t just a motto, it’s about what we come to work to do, every day. Zak and Mo embodied exactly what caring for people on life’s journey means. They were there, and ready, and able to help, at a time of greatest need.” “Institutions are ultimately judged by the choices their people make,” said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Chairman Simon Bergson. “When confronted with a grieving friend racing to attend the funeral of a victim of terror, American Airlines employees chose empathy over indifference and action over bureaucracy. Their decisions changed the outcome of a profoundly human moment.” In honoring American Airlines, AJCF recognized not simply an extraordinary act of customer service, but a profound demonstration of moral leadership. At a moment of immense grief, ordinary employees made extraordinary choices, reminding us that compassion, courage and human dignity remain among the most powerful forces in public life. The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation (AJCF), headquartered in New York City, is dedicated to harnessing the lessons of the Holocaust to combat antisemitism, hatred, and bigotry while building a better future. In addition to its educational and leadership programs in New York, including Decode Hate, developed in partnership with the New York City Council and New York City Public Schools, as well as the American Service Academies Program and the RISE Leadership Program, AJCF maintains the Auschwitz Jewish Center in Oświęcim, Poland, including the city's last remaining synagogue, a museum and educational center, and other preserved Jewish properties that serve as living reminders of a once-thriving Jewish community. Through its work with students, educators, civic leaders, clergy and law enforcement, AJCF equips current and future leaders with the tools to recognize and confront antisemitism, extremism, and hate in all its forms. For more information, visit: www.ajcfus.org . Previous Next

New Year "No Charge" Condo And HOA Estoppel Letters Will Be Changing By Christopher Carter - Real Estate Broker Associate January 11, 2024 Share When selling a Florida residential condominium unit or a house in an HOA-Governed Community, an Estoppel Letter is required before closing to verify any Outstanding Debts or Violations on file with the Owners Association. They are usually prepared by the Property Manager or Management Company on behalf of the Association, then sent to the Closing Attorney or Title Company. Any Balances due are payable either before Closing or as a Seller Cost on the Settlement Statement. Debts and Rule Violations to Owners Associations attach to the property not the owner, so they have to be addressed before the property is sold to a new owner. Fees charged for preparing an Estoppel Letter are Seller Closing Costs because sellers are responsible for providing "clean" transfer of ownership. When a Property Manager works directly for the Association (in some condo buildings rather than HOAs), Estoppel Preparation Fees are paid to the Association. However, when an Association Board (COA or HOA) contracts with a licensed company to provide Property Management Services, Fees paid by selling owners for preparing Estoppel Letters are usually kept by the Management Company, not the Association. This is in addition to the Regular Fees charged under the Company's Annual Management Services Contract with the Association. This recent article gives a brief outline and introduction to Association Estoppels. For some background before today's discussion, I suggest you take a look: What is an Estoppel Letter - and why would you need one? (thefloridarealestateblog.com) Recently, a Florida Senate Bill was introduced which (if passed into State law) will prohibit Associations and Management Companies from charging owners for Estoppel Letters. SB-278 applies to Condominium, Cooperative, and Homeowners Residential Associations. It will be discussed, debated, and voted on during the current 2024 Legislative Session which runs through March 8th, 2024. Here are a few discussion points: • One of the important obligations of a Residential Owners Association is to facilitate the efficient Legal Transfer of Individual Property Ownership within the Association-Governed Building or Community. • Management companies keep up-to-date Records of the Financial Accounts and any Rule Violations for each individual property in the Associations they manage. • Preparing an Estoppel Letter involves accurately transferring a selling owner's account information into a template document when a request comes in from a Closing Attorney or Title Company. • Managers and Management Companies work for the Association, serving as paid Administrative Assistants to the Board of Directors. • Because charging a Separate Fee for preparing Estoppel Letters is currently allowed, most management companies and Associations charge the maximum per Florida Statutes which is now around $300 each, with additional charges allowed for expedited delivery or accounts with Violations or Delinquencies. • Being a required component of all property sales in Condominium Buildings and Association-Governed Communities, should preparing Estoppel Letters present an Additional Profit Opportunity and Revenue Stream for an Association or Management Company? Should preparing them be included in an Onsite Manager's normal duties or in the stated services a Management Company provides under contract to Associations instead of an Additional Fee charged to each selling owner? Legislative Session Debate may answer these questions. • If Management Companies are concerned about losing Individual Estoppel Letter Fees under SB-278, they may increase Annual Management Contract Charges to offset any Perceived or Expected Revenue Loss. Owners might prefer to absorb a reasonable increase in Budgeted Professional Services Fees to the entire Association instead of being charged separately every time an individual property is sold. Again, we will have to wait and see. Whether you are for or against removing all money charges for preparing an Association Estoppel Letter, contact your Elected Senators and Representatives (along with your Board and Management Company) to let them know your thoughts. Will SB-278 become Florida Law? No one knows at this point. The Bill's merits and shortfalls have to be debated in the upcoming Legislative Session. Stay tuned in March for the outcome... Editor's Note: Christopher Carter is NOT an attorney. He does not give legal advice. For interpretation and application to specific circumstances of anything you read in this article, you must speak with a Florida-Licensed attorney. Have a question or comment about anything you see here, if so, visit: www.TheFloridaRealEstateBlog.com < Previous News Next News >

The Judds: 'The Final Tour' Is Coming To Hollywood Thu Dec 01 2022 17:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Animal Vintage: Specialty Shop Opens in Downtown Hollywood Thu Jan 27 2022 05:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Recycle Right Thu Aug 10 2023 16:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

It’s Time To Dance: Aventura Will Host A Classic And Contemporary Dance Series September 2, 2021 Share Florida’s Premiere Contemporary Dance Troupe, joins forces with New York’s Limón Dance Company for an inspired evening of dance. The Aventura 2021/2022 Dance Series, features a variety of classical and contemporary offerings, from around the world. This will be an exciting season for everyone to enjoy and it starts off, with an exciting performance, from The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida, under the artistic direction, of Vladimir Issaev. These performances are on sale at full capacity, without physical distancing limitations. If conditions change, ticket purchasers will be notified of up-to-date Health & Safety Guidelines, prior to each, individual performance. In December, the company performs the beloved "Nutcracker," a creative and exciting production, by Vladimir Issaev. In March, The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida, will perform a timeless favorite, "Coppelia" with music by Leo Delibes and choreography, by Vladimir Issaev. Finally in April, The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida Company, closes the season, with the "Spring Gala," offering audiences an amazing display of virtuosity by their professional dancers, showcasing a program of the most challenging, classical ballet pieces. Schedule October 9th, 2021 - October 10th, 2021 "Unbroken" Neoclassical & Contemporary Ballets - The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida December 10th, 2021 - December 12th, 2021 The Nutcracker - The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida March 5th, 2022 - March 6th, 2022 Coppelia - The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida April 23rd, 2022 Spring Ballet Gala – The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida May 14th 2022 Dance Now! Miami "Unbroken" Neoclassical & Contemporary Ballets - The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida, on Saturday, October 9th, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, October 10th, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $35. The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida’s brand new and original ballet performance, choreographed by Ballet Master Vladimir Issaev, brings the music, of Édouard Lalo's, Namouna to the stage. This re-imagining of Lalo's Romantic Ballet, serves as a testament to the timelessness of Classical Ballet, as well as its continuity, during these challenging and changing times, while introducing the audience to the future of Classical Ballet. Additional repertoires include: "Viva España" with music by Massenet and Choreography by Issaev and other Neoclassical and Contemporary Pieces. Not suggested, for those 4 years of age and under. The Nutcracker – The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida Friday, December 10th, 2021 - Saturday, December 11th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. and on Sunday, December 12th, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $40 with $5 lap seats, for children ages 12 months and under. A traditional holiday favorite, The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida, presents, the Classic Ballet, The Nutcracker to Tchaikovsky’s popular score, based on the tale of, E.T.A Hoffmann. The critically acclaimed performance, is choreographed and directed, by renowned Ballet Master, Vladimir Issaev. This enthusiastic ballet company, features its team of professional dancers performing the principal roles, as well as, a community cast, made up of local character artists and children, for the party scene. The Nutcracker’s engaging choreography, is guaranteed to charm audiences of all ages, this holiday season. Coppelia - The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida Sat., March 5th, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. and Sun., March 6th, 2022, at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $35. The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida, introduces its own version of "Coppelia," with music by Leo Delibes and choreography, by Vladimir Issaev, based on the original choreography, by Arthur Saint-Leon. This timeless ballet, is a favorite of dancers and audiences alike, about the love story of a young girl, Swanilda and her boyfriend Frantz. The couple believes that a doll named Coppelia, is a real girl and Frantz starts flirting, with the adorable puppet. Captivated at the sight of Dr. Coppelius's new life size doll, Frantz sneaks into the mad inventor’s workshop and confusion begins leading, into a delightful and lovely comedy. Not suggested for those 4 years of age and under. Spring Gala – The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida Saturday, April 23rd, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35. The Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida, under the direction of Ballet Master, Vladimir Issaev, ends its season, with a classical repertoire, which includes the most famous classical Pas de Deux and Neoclassical pieces, by Vladimir Issaev, guest choreographers and international dancers. Not suggested for those 4 years of age and under. Dance NOW! Miami Saturday, May 14th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. Florida’s Premiere Contemporary Dance Troupe, joins forces with New York’s Limón Dance Company, for an inspired evening of dance. The performance will include works by: Jose Limón, one of the founders of Modern dance and will feature, The Waldstein Sonata, danced by both companies together, on one stage. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 NE 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service, of The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person, at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office, Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior, to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. Please note, that not all shows scheduled for the 2021-2022 Season, are currently on sale and additional performances, will be added throughout the season. The Broward Center For The Performing Arts, manages The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-square-foot, 330-seat waterfront complex, that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming, for all ages. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, has implemented a number of changes, to ensure an enjoyable experience. Health & safety guidelines, have been developed in conjunction with its management company, The Broward Center For The Performing Arts and in collaboration, with The Cleveland Clinic and have been informed, by the guidance of Public Health Officials, including, The Centers For Disease Control (CDC). These guidelines will be continuing to evolve, as the environment changes and information, may be accessed, on the venue’s web-site. < Previous News Next News >

Savoring Global Flavors: A Memorable Senior Summer Camp Cultural Trip At EPCOT Food & Wine Festival August 3, 2023 Share As the summer heat continues and the breeze from the Atlantic gently brushes our skin, it's the perfect time for seniors to embark on a cultural adventure unlike any other—the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World. Hosted by the City of Sunny Isles Beach Cultural & Community Services Department, this day trip promises to take participants on a mouthwatering journey across six continents, indulging in the finest flavors from around the globe. The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival is a celebration of culinary diversity, offering a gastronomic experience that leaves taste buds tingling with delight. Set against the enchanting backdrop of EPCOT, one of Disney's most beloved theme parks, this festival captures the essence of different cultures through their traditional foods and beverages. A Global Taste Tour Early in the morning, as the sun begins to rise, eager participants gather at the Gateway Center to embark on their epicurean adventure. The journey commences with a leisurely bus ride, filled with anticipation and excitement, as seniors gear up to savor flavors they may have only dreamt of. As the bus arrives at EPCOT, participants are greeted by a cornucopia of aromas and sights. Stalls and kiosks line the streets, each representing a different country's cuisine. From the savory delights of Asia to the indulgent desserts of Europe, the Food & Wine Festival truly presents a melting pot of global delicacies. Tantalizing Food And Beverages The heart of this festival lies in its offerings. Each country boasts a unique menu that represents the essence of its culture. Seniors can savor classic dishes like: French Escargot, Italian Pasta, and Japanese Sushi. For those feeling adventurous, there are exotic treats such as Moroccan Tagine, Brazilian Churrasco, and Indian Samosas. The culinary journey is not limited to food alone. A wide selection of Fine Wines, Craft Beers, and Innovative Cocktails are available for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. From Full-Bodied Reds to Crisp Whites, the beverage options cater to every palate, elevating the dining experience to new heights. Cultural Immersion And Activities Beyond the culinary delights, the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival is a celebration of culture and entertainment. Throughout the day, participants can enjoy live performances by traditional artists from various countries, showcasing their music, dance, and art. These captivating displays add an immersive layer to the experience, making it not just a food festival but also a cultural extravaganza. A Day Of Fun And Togetherness The festival's vibrant atmosphere and delectable offerings set the stage for seniors to create lasting memories with their fellow travelers. Amidst laughter and camaraderie, participants bond over shared experiences and delightful culinary surprises. The trip becomes an opportunity to forge new friendships and strengthen existing ones, making it an enriching social adventure. Preparation And Details The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival trip is a day-long excursion that involves a considerable amount of walking. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable attire and sturdy walking shoes to ensure they can fully enjoy the experience without any hindrances. Additionally, it is advisable to bring a hat, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle to stay refreshed throughout the day. Pre-Registration for the trip is Mandatory, as it allows organizers to plan accordingly and ensure a smooth experience for everyone involved. The Fees for the trip are $150 for Sunny Isles Beach Resident ID Card Holders and $185 for Non-Residents, which includes Transportation, Admission to EPCOT, and access to the festival. The EPCOT Food & Wine Festival is not just an event; it's an immersive journey that transcends borders and tantalizes the senses. Seniors who embark on this cultural adventure can expect to be enchanted by a world of flavors, cultures, and entertainment, all in one place. It's an opportunity to expand culinary horizons, embrace new experiences, and create beautiful memories with friends old and new. So, mark your calendars for Friday, August 18th, 2023 at 5:30 a.m. and join the City of Sunny Isles Beach Cultural & Community Services Department on this unforgettable gastronomic tour at the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival. To secure your spot or find more information, call: (305) 792-1706. Or visit: www.sibfl.net/ccs Don't miss this chance to savor the best of what the world has to offer, right in the heart of Walt Disney World. Bon Appétit! < Previous News Next News >

Rebecca D'Amico Joins The Team: At The Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Thu Apr 06 2023 16:14:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Welcome To Paradise: MOCA North Miami Showcases Local Artists Thu Feb 02 2023 17:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Attention Hollywood Residents: Sub-tropical Storm Nicole is Being Tracked - Stay Connected November 8, 2022 Share The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is tracking a storm system in the Atlantic Ocean north of Puerto Rico. Sub-tropical storm Nicole is moving toward the north-northwest into an area east of the Bahamas that is favorable for development. The system is expected to strengthen within the next 24-48 hours. The Hollywood area is located inside the NHC’s area of possible development. Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to trusted news providers like the National Weather Service Miami and the National Hurricane Center for the latest information on this system and take any needed preparations to be storm ready. Storm Preparations Underway To prepare for the possibility of severe weather including heavy rainfall that could coincide with high tides and gusty winds, City crews are taking the following steps: • Public Works crews are deploying barricades and flood safety signage as a precautionary measure along State Road A1A on Hollywood Beach and in parts of Hollywood Lakes (North and South Lake, areas near the Intracoastal Waterway. Additional barricades and signage will be deployed as needed through the week. • Public Utilities crews are checking all primary and auxiliary pumps to ensure they are working properly and will be checking and clearing storm drains. • Police patrol units are monitoring roadways in flood prone areas. Flood Safety Information • Motorists should not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Floodwaters can damage your vehicle and prevent you from seeing safety hazards in the roadway. • Use caution with electrical appliances, electrical cords and outlets if floodwaters have entered your home. • Residents should not go outside or wade in standing flood water, which can contain contaminants. Following a heavy storm, sharp debris and other items from overturned garbage bins could be hidden in the water and cause injury. Standing water also may contain harmful bacteria that could cause infection. • Health officials remind the public to not let children or pets play in flood water. • Call 911 if flood damage to your home has created an emergency situation such as a fire. • Residents should have their homeowner’s insurance information and flood insurance information readily available. If you experience flood damage, seek advice from your insurer on documenting the damage and drying out your home. The same applies for contacting your vehicle insurance provider if you find your vehicle has been damaged. Sign Up for Alert Hollywood Emergency Notifications The City of Hollywood has an emergency notification system called Alert Hollywood. Used by many government agencies throughout Florida, Alert Hollywood notifies residents through phone calls, e-mails and/or text messages to mobile phones of an emergency in the community such as a hurricane watch or warning, flash flood warning, tornado warning, serious police situations and other critical incidents. Sign up for Alert Hollywood today. After you submit your information, you will receive Alert Hollywood notifications whenever an alert is issued. Alerts may be received by phone and/or email address. Severe weather alerts issued by the National Weather Service are automatically issued through the Alert Hollywood system if you elect to receive those notifications. The Alert Hollywood service is free to the public. Text message fees by your wireless carrier may apply depending on your mobile phone plan. Alert Hollywood is powered by the Everbridge critical event management software platform. Stay Connected Important information will be posted on the City’s website, shared via the Alert Hollywood application, through Notify Me “News and Announcements” email and text messages and on the City’s social media sites. Please bookmark, follow, like and subscribe today: City's Emergency Management webpage: https://www.hollywoodfl.org/742/Emergency-Management Facebook: @CityOfHollywoodFL Twitter: @cohgov Instagram: cityofhollywoodfl YouTube: hollywoodflch78 Alert Hollywood: https://www.hollywoodfl.org/725/Alert-Hollywood Garbage and Storm Drain Information Residents should refrain from cutting trees or doing additional landscaping projects until after this storm passes. Sanitation collections will continue on a regular collection schedule until further notice. While utilities crews will be checking and clearing storm drains, residents who are able can assist by ensuring that storm drains near their homes remain cleared throughout the week. < Previous News Next News >

Great Mentors Create Great Leaders: Hallandale Beach Is On A Positive Track Because of Astute Leadership Thu Jun 09 2022 04:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)