A Memorable Start To Spring JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa Have A Magical March Lineup Aventura Digest Mar 19, 2025 JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa Invites Guests To Experience A Memorable Start To Spring With A Roster Of Fun Activities And Special Activations. Renowned Restaurateur, Chef Michael Mina, Hosts An Intimate Dinner At Bourbon Steak With A Specially Curated, Multi-Course Menu And CORSAIR Kitchen & Bar Welcomes Clase Azul For A Tequila And Tacos Tasting Event. Live Entertainment Is Offered Every Sunday At Corsair Kitchen & Bar’s Brunch 52 And Every Thursday Through Sunday At SOFF’s Lobby Lounge. âme Spa And Wellness Collective Welcomes Back The Popular Juice And Glow Retreat And Offers Exclusive Treatments For The Month Of March. Discover luxury services, modern amenities and a stylish setting at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. Elegantly designed spacious rooms and suites provide relaxing comfort with marble bathrooms and private balconies overlooking the resort's tropical grounds. The resort features Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina, serving signature cuts of prime meat, local seafood and a fine selection of over 1,000 wines. For casual fare, visit CORSAIR Kitchen & Bar, Surf House Bar & Grill or Freestyle. Let little ones join in days of fun at Tidal Cove Water Park while lounging poolside in a private luxury cabana. Golf enthusiasts can vie for under par scores at the property’s two 18-hole championship courses, while the exquisite full-service spa is a tranquil haven for beauty and wellness. Ushering in a new era of meeting style and sophistication, the 120,000 square foot conference center features 40 flexible meeting rooms, two grand ballrooms and vast outdoor terraces and venues, while delivering the luxury expected, along with JW Marriott’s world-class event services and amenities. CORSAIR Kitchen & Bar & Brunch 52 An American-inspired kitchen and bar, Corsair’s contemporary cuisine attracts those looking for lighter comfort food prepared with regionally sourced, wholly natural ingredients. Guests are invited to enjoy tacos paired with Clase Azul Plata, Reposado and Mezcal on March 25th from 6:15 p.m. through 7:15 p.m. Stay for dinner at CORSIAR Kitchen & Bar to receive 25% off or continue the journey with Clase Azul at Soff’s Lobby Lounge and receive 25% off including Gold, Añejo and Ultra. This dining experience is $75 per person and reservations can be made by calling the restaurant: (786)-279-6800. Named the 52 – as the menu items change 52 weeks of the year – Corsair Brunch 52 includes à la carte items, unlimited mimosas and Aperol spritzes, seafood and dessert bars. Made-to-order dishes include French Toast with a graham cracker-crusted brioche, Key lime meringue and mint; Breakfast Skillet with Buffalo chicken, cheese fondue, blue cheese, scallions and celery; Mac n’ Cheese with crab, Old Bay and panko breadcrumbs; and Eggs Benedict with fried onion rings, KC BBQ beef "burnt ends," poached egg and classic hollandaise, among others. Guests can enjoy live entertainment every Sunday from 11:30 a.m. through 3:00 p.m. Brunch is $67 per person; $31 per person for children 12 and under, and children ages 3 and under eat free from the Kids Menu. Reservations can be made online: https://www.opentable.com/corsair-kitchen-and-bar Wine Down Wednesdays: Enjoy a mid-week special every Wednesday at CORSAIR Kitchen & Bar with 40 percent off select bottles of wine. The offer includes varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chateau d’Esclans, Chardonnay and more. Guests are invited to enjoy a bottle while sampling the Seafood Platter with a jumbo shrimp cocktail, snow crab claws, octopus salad, classic louis and cocktail sauces for the ideal happy hour. For dinner, elevate a meal with a choice of wine while indulging in entrees such as the New England Lobster Roll or CORSAIR smash burger and sides including truffle fries, loaded tater tots and more. Reservations can be made online: https://www.opentable.com/corsair-kitchen-and-bar Ribeye Sundays: Every Sunday at CORSAIR Kitchen & Bar, from 6:00 p.m. through 9:00 p.m., guests are invited to enjoy a ribeye dinner special for $48 per person. Ribeye Sundays include a choice of roasted tomato soup or Caesar salad, a 12-ounce ribeye with mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, roasted mushrooms, beef jus and key lime pie with coconut sorbet for dessert. Advance reservations are required and can be made online: https://www.opentable.com/corsair-kitchen-and-bar SOFF’S Jazz & Martini Night Enjoy Jazz music and Martinis every Thursday starting at 4:00 p.m. In addition to martinis made to one’s liking, guests can also enjoy an array of signature cocktails including “Where’s Donnie?” with Ketel One Vodka, cucumber, mint, agave, and lemon or ‘Sting Like Ali” featuring Bulleit rye, Chartreuse Green Liqueur, Drambuie and lemon among others. A wide variety of cigars are also available and are perfect to enjoy on the adjacent patio. âme Spa & Wellness Collective - Juice and Glow Retreat – March 23rd âme Spa & Wellness Collective invites guests to a day of renewal and transformation at the Holistic Rejuvenation Center at JW Turnberry’s âme Spa and Wellness Collective. The exclusive one-day retreat is designed to help guests reconnect with their inner balance, vitality and overall well-being. This one-day event is a unique opportunity to nurture the body, mind and spirit in a setting of elegance and tranquility. Attendees can embrace the power of juicing, set intentions, listen to enlightening lectures and have access to world-class amenities, including the Infrared Sauna, Whole-Body Red Light Therapy pod, Aromatherapy steam room and a cold plunge with guided breathing exercises. Guests will also have access to the tranquil adult pool for complete relaxation. Tickets are priced at $296 per person and include Juices and Collagen shots, access to an Infrared Sauna, Red Light therapy pod, a Cold plunge with guided breathing exercises, a welcome gift bag, and more. Further information is available online: https://www.exploretock.com/turnberryislemiami/event/503212/juice-glow-retreat âme Spa & Wellness Collective March Specials QMS Connection Treatment: This treatment is a multi-faceted treatment combining face, body, and nutritional stimulation. With the ability to energize, revitalize connective tissue, and skin cells, this treatment restores blood, lymphatic circulation and relaxes the nervous system to reduce inflammation. 50 minutes | $249 Cryo-Facial by BABOR: This cooling facial treatment reduces puffiness, tightens skin’s appearance while promoting a radiant, refreshed and more even complexion. Combining the benefits of cold therapy and sculpting gua sha, the ergonomic shape of the tool perfectly adapts to the contours of the face and neck. 50 minutes | $189 Turnberry Reset: Reset and recover with this unique treatment. Experience the combined benefits of hands-on massage and aromatherapy oils. The therapist uses advanced bodywork techniques, as well as aromatherapy oils to soften fascia and release adhesions. 50 minutes | $189 Celebration of You Massage: This offer is exclusively offered to guests with a birthday during March. Enjoy a signature massage with a special gift. Guests can book online. 50 minutes | $159 Restore and Glow: Restore the skin to a healthy glow with this uniquely hydrating treatment. This service features a customized exfoliation and hydrating treatment using coconut and natural sugar cane to reveal a bright radiant skin, followed by a full body massage combining traditional massage techniques to transform stress into balance. 80 minutes | $249 Perfect Day: Relax with a customized full-body massage designed to unwind the body and refresh the mind. An express facial combining antioxidants and vitamins to enhance elasticity and improve the look of fine lines is also part of this luxurious treatment. 80 minutes | $249 Tidal Cove Waterpark Award-winning Tidal Cove Waterpark features a 60-foot tower with seven water slides, a 4,000-square-foot kids pool with an aquatic play structure, the first-ever FlowRider® Triple surf and bodyboard simulator in the nation, 25 private cabanas and an additional VIP pool, Oasis Pool. Guests of JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa enjoy complimentary exclusive access. • Tidal Cove Adult-area DJ – Weekends, 12:00 p.m. through 4:00 p.m. • Kids Cove DJ – Weekends, varying dates and times. Tidal Cove Arcade Tidal Cove Arcade is the go-to spot for family-friendly entertainment. Located within Tidal Cove, the arcade features Claw and Halo machines, Cruisin’ Blast, Pac Man and Key Master. The Tidal Cove arcade is open from 9:00 a.m. through 10:00 p.m. daily. Golf Lessons JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort and Spa offers private golf lessons from top 25 US-ranked National golf instructors, starting at $250. The Ray Boone Golf Academy has options for everyone, including corporate clinic rates. Indoor and outdoor sessions are available, along with Trackman and Video Analysis. For more information, please contact: jteetimes@jwturnberry.com . Or: (305)-933-6929. JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa is tucked away on 300 acres in Aventura, it's a tropical oasis with a culture of accessible luxury and enriching experiences. For more information visit: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/miajt-jw-marriott-miami-turnberry-resort-and-spa/overview/ - Or call: (305) 932-6200. (Photo Credit: JW Marriott Miami Turnberry) Previous Next

Rent Prices Are Finally Falling: But These 20 Cities Missed The Memo For Single-Family Homes February 2, 2023 Share In-demand single-family homes drove 2022’s rental-price roller coaster. Prices are finally settling down, but just in case you’re planning a move, new data from Dwellsy pinpoints the 20 American cities where it’s most expensive to rent a house. Picture it: You’re lounging in a cozy chair in your (rented) living room, watching snow drift gently down outside. If you want to get crazy, add a cup of hot cocoa, a fuzzy blanket and a few scented candles. If this winter fantasy is appealing, data-cruncher Jonas Bordo of Dwellsy has good news: Moving into a single-family home rental (SFR) just got a bit less pricey—so go ahead and spring for the fancy marshmallows. Now, here’s the caveat you knew was coming: If you want to rent a sunny beach house, forget he said anything. You’ll still pay plenty for the privilege of not freezing your butt off. “From November to December 2022, asking rent for a three-bedroom SFR went down $30, or 1.7 percent,” says Bordo, CEO and Co-Founder of Dwellsy. “This is extremely welcome news for renters, who saw prices for that property type rise 8 percent or a total of $128, from December 2021 to December 2022. That said, your rent might still cost quite a bit depending on your address—especially if you’re hoping to find a rental home in a warm, sunny spot.” Bordo believes that providing accurate and timely rental data is a crucial service for renters, landlords, cities and organizations connected to the rental industry. To that end, Dwellsy regularly mines its 13+ million residential rental listings for statistics and data. Because the rental platform allows landlords to post listings free of charge, it has a pool of data that’s more diverse—and more representative of the true rental landscape—than that of pay-to-play listing services. Each month, Dwellsy breaks down this data regionally across 250 U.S. markets. “Without current data, it’s difficult for renters to accurately gauge developing trends, determine affordability in their area and plan for the future,” says Bordo. “In order to increase the specificity of what we’re pricing and reduce the risk of noise in the underlying data, Dwellsy has recently updated our methodology for analyzing rent data. In compiling this list of most expensive cities for single-family home rentals, we’ve focused on three-bedroom homes because they are by far the most common rental home type.” For a more detailed look at Dwellsy’s rent price analysis methodology, see this article: https://dwellsy.com/blog/rent-analysis-methodology/ Top Ten Most Expensive Big Cities for Single-Family Homes: 1. Los Angeles, California $3850, 2. San Francisco, California $3700, 3. San Jose California $3600, 4. Honolulu, Hawaii $3500, 5. San Diego, California $3450 6. Miami, Florida $3200, 7. Boston, Massachusetts $3200, 8. Riverside - San Bernardino, California $2600, 9. Seattle, Oregon $2596 and 10. Denver, Colorado $2540. A glance at this list shows that a snowy winter is not in the forecast for the majority of cities with the most expensive SFR rent. Los Angeles claimed the top spot with a median December asking rent of $3,850 and Bay Area twins San Francisco and San José took the second and third spots with rents of $3,700 and $3,600, respectively. “Renters in Miami, Honolulu and Boston might still be in mourning for their 2021 budgets, because prices in each of these cities have increased over 10 percent since December 2021,” says Bordo. “On the other hand, asking rents in San José, Riverside-San Bernardino and Seattle have increased by 3 percent or less—well below the national average of 8 percent.” Top Ten Most Expensive Small Cities for Single-Family Homes: 1. Naples-Marco Island, Florida $5000, 2. Salinas, California $3500, 3. Oxnard-Thousand Oaks, California $3398, 4. San Luis Obispo, California $3200 5. Santa Rosa, California $3000, 6. Santa Barbara, California $2938, 7. Vallejo-Fairfield, California $2750 8. North Port-Bradenton, Florida $2650, 9. Hilton Head, South Carolina $2638 and 10. Boulder, Colorado $2595. Thanks in part to the loosening of Pandemic restrictions and the rise of remote work, many renters chose to move to smaller cities with sought-after amenities and attractions in 2022. After all, if you can work from anywhere, why not do it by the beach? Assuming, of course, that you can afford to pay for that coveted ocean view. “Naples-Marco Island, Florida, gets the prize for ‘most expensive rental city’ across all property types and locations,” shares Bordo. “Median asking rent in December was $5,000 for a three-bedroom home. This is significantly higher than asking rent in second-place Salinas, California, which came in at $3,500. “Hilton Head, South Carolina, also stands out for having this group’s highest overall rent growth in 2022: 23.4 percent,” he adds. “No matter where you live, it looks like more stable rent prices will continue into 2023,” Bordo concludes. “Thanks to the Fed’s fight against inflation and an increased supply of new rentals entering the market, I expect moderate pricing to continue as the year progresses.” < Previous News Next News >

Bahamian Paradise Found - Snaresbrook Manor An Impeccable Luxury Escape In Eleuthera By Merilee Kern, MBA Jan 21, 2026 Nestled In The Embrace Of The Turquoise Waters Of The Caribbean Sits Snaresbrook Manor—An Impeccable Luxury Vacation Home In The Governor’s Harbor Of Eleuthera, Bahamas. Perfectly Situated On A Panoramic Pink Sand Beach And With Premium Appointments From Top To Bottom, This Pristine Property Stands As A Testament To The Serene Luxury And Natural Beauty That This Tropical Island Paradise Has To Offer. Tucked Away From The Other Bustling Bahamian Tourist Spots, Snaresbrook Manor Is A Hidden Gem On The Outer Island Of Eleuthera That Provides An Idyllic Escape For Those Seeking Tranquility, Extravagance And The Allure Of A Private Oasis. This Exceptional Eight Thousand Square Foot Vacation Home Spans Across A Private 2.2 Acres And Sits Directly On A Mile-Long Private Pink Sand Beach. Owned By Fashion Designer Patricia Nash, Snaresbrook Manor Is A Meticulously Designed And Carefully Crafted Private Estate That Encapsulates The Essence Of Bahamian Charm. The property offers seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms in the main house plus a separate on-property apartment with nearly all having an ocean view. Its sizable second story balcony provides a sweeping sea view in all directions as far as the eye can see. This sprawling estate also boasts a 40 by 25 foot heated beachfront pool surrounded by plush loungers, large indoor and outdoor dining and seating areas, commercial-grade kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances for luxury vacations and retreats with lodging for up to eighteen guests. Other deluxe features include a plush media room with oversized HD flat screen TV, fitness room with gym-quality equipment, covered pergola and cabana with a bathing area and outdoor bathroom, a water filtration system and an on-site orchard. Daily housekeeping and concierge services are also included with each stay. Here you can revel in exclusivity, sumptuous surroundings and natural beauty and gracious island hospitality. From its pristine beaches to lush landscapes and affable staff available to accommodate nearly all guest needs, Snaresbrook Manor captures the heart and soul of the Caribbean and sets a decidedly high standard for area vacation rentals. The veritably flawless property boasts a range of luxurious amenities and facilities that cater to the needs of even the most discerning travelers. From a stunning global travel-inspired interior decor, breathtaking views of—and direct access to—the ocean, a sparkling pool that seems to merge seamlessly with the sea and sprawling tropical gardens that invite moments of quiet contemplation, each element of Snaresbrook Manor evokes a sense of awe and relaxation. Having myself experienced a Snaresbrook Manor vacation experience, I can attest that the allure of Snaresbrook Manor lies not just in its luxurious offerings, but also in the tranquility the entirety of the grounds provide. Unlike the more bustling Caribbean island tourist hubs, this hidden haven allows visitors to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in an oasis of peace. Whether it's a leisurely stroll along the private beach, an intimate dinner under the starlit sky, or a rejuvenating on-property spa session, Snaresbrook Manor caters to those seeking an intimate and personalized experience. Beyond its captivating natural beauty and lavish offerings, Snaresbrook Manor also provides an opportunity to engage with the rich Bahamian culture. From sampling local delicacies via Island Hospitality Group or other private chef services, venturing out into the community to experience local restaurants and the must-do weekly Friday night community fish fry, to experiencing traditional music and arts, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the vibrant heritage that enriches this Bahamian outer island. In all, Snaresbrook Manor stands as a testament to the allure of Eleuthera, offering a glimpse into a world where extravagance and nature coexist in perfect harmony. Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a serene family vacation, a girls or guys trip, wedding or corporate event, or an escape from the ordinary for any other reason, this meticulous private estate promises an experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. In the embrace of Snaresbrook Manor, guests can discover the true essence of paradise—a place where time slows down, worries fade and the magic of the Caribbean becomes a cherished memory. Merilee Kern, MBA Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. Merilee is Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List” as well as Host of the “Savvy Living” lifestyle TV show that airs in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Atlanta and other major markets on CBS, FOX and other top networks; as well as the “Savvy Ventures” business TV show that airs nationally on FOX Business TV and Bloomberg TV. Merilee also hosts the Savvy Ventures Podcast & Radio show available globally on W4CY Radio—the #1 ranked live streaming radio station—among others as well as all major podcast platforms, including Pandora, Audible, Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Streamyard, iHeart Radio and dozens more. As a prolific lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker, Merilee keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at: www.TheLuxeList.com And: www.SavvyLiving.tv / Instagram: www.Instagram.com/MerileeKern / Twitter: www.Twitter.com/MerileeKern / Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial / LinkedIN: www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern . ***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.*** Previous Next

Strong At Every Age: How Women Can Help Combat Muscle Loss By Feature Impact Jul 24, 2026 Aging Is Inevitable, But Losing Muscle And Mobility Doesn't Have To Be. For Many Women, Maintaining Strength, Independence, Energy And Mobility Are Top Priorities As They Get Older, Particularly As They Deal With The Mental And Physical Responsibilities That Come With Working, Caregiving, Keeping Up With Friends, Hobbies And Enjoying An Active Lifestyle. In fact, 58% of women in the United States are actively focused on staying healthy as they age, according to a recent survey commissioned by Viactiv, a line of award-winning supplements for women known for their unique formats and flavors. However, 73% of respondents weren't aware of sarcopenia, or age-related muscle loss. According to the "International Journal of Women's Health," age-related muscle loss often begins between ages 30-35, with women losing 3-8% of their muscle mass per decade and increasing to 5-10% loss per decade after age 60. Hormonal changes, decreased activity levels, stress, poor sleep and inadequate nutrition can all contribute to the decline in muscle, which can also negatively impact balance, bone health, metabolism, posture and everyday mobility. Yet, despite 70% of women reporting some level of concern about muscle loss, 54% are unsure how to protect their muscle health. "Women want to stay strong, active and independent as they age, but many are getting mixed messages about what actually supports long-term muscle health," said Dr. Tania Elliott, a dual board-certified physician in internal medicine. "A lot of women are already making healthy choices like walking and staying active, which is a great start. However, maintaining muscle health really requires a more complete approach, and one that starts earlier than most women think, which is in your 30s." Prioritize Strength Training Many women report barriers such as lack of time (15%), feeling overwhelmed (23%) or simply not enjoying exercise (23%). The key is finding realistic, sustainable habits. While walking and cardio exercise aid in heart health, which 58% of survey respondents report already engaging in, strength training is one of the most effective ways to preserve and build muscle as you age. Still, just 34% of women report doing strength or resistance training. You don't need an intense fitness regimen to support healthy aging. Aiming for at least two strength-focused workouts a week - lifting weights, using resistance bands, practicing weight-bearing yoga or doing bodyweight exercises like squats and pushups - that target major muscle groups can help maintain muscle health. The goal is to fatigue your muscles during sets so they build. Fuel Muscles with Proper Nutrition Exercise is only part of the equation. Muscles also need proper nutrition to recover and stay strong. Protein plays a critical role in maintaining muscle mass, especially as women age. Incorporating high-quality protein throughout the day, such as eggs, Greek yogurt, fish, lean meats, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds, may help support muscle repair and overall strength. Support Healthy Aging with Supplements In addition to a balanced diet and exercise, some women may consider supplements that support healthy aging and energy production, including CoQ10, which is a naturally occurring antioxidant that helps cells produce energy. According to research published in "The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging," because muscles require significant energy to function, CoQ10 shows potential for managing sarcopenia by improving mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress. An option like Viactiv CoQ10 Cardio Complete, available in a tasty fruit-flavored chew, can help support heart health, muscles, nerve function and daily energy. Enhanced with vitamins D3 and K2, it provides daily essential nutrition for women without the need to swallow a large pill. Practice Healthy Habits Muscle health is influenced by more than workouts. Sleep, stress management and daily movement all play important roles. Adopting some simple habits, including prioritizing quality sleep, stretching regularly, staying properly hydrated, reducing sedentary time throughout the day and practicing stress-management techniques, like yoga, meditation or deep breathing, can help aid in healthy aging, including maintaining muscle. The earlier women begin prioritizing muscle health, the better positioned they may be to maintain strength and mobility as they age. Visit: www.Viactiv.com for more information and resources to help combat muscle loss. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Previous Next

State Of The City Of Hallandale Beach, Part 7 By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper Jul 16, 2025 While We Are Growing, The Housing Market Is Becoming Less Affordable For Families To Live Here. We Want Them To Stay. People Are Coming Here Because We Are A Low Tax State. We Want Businesses To Succeed Here, Stay Here And Others To Invest Here. It Cannot Happen Without A Balanced Housing Stock With All Levels. We have taken on a newer aggressive approach to Affordable Housing in our City. Considering the typical Single-Family Home in our City on average was well below a countywide average of $240,000 a few years ago. Homes are being scooped up by developers and flipped. One was recently listed for $700,000 in the southwest. If you are purchasing property with Liens we do have mitigation, if the pro forma still does not pencil out due to Liens. I championed a mitigation process where buyers can mitigate further so long as they build affordable. Each case will be different but so long as there is a comparable affordable unit created, the mitigation is negotiable. Watching this trend, we started to work within our CRA to purchase homes and duplexes, rehab them and place them on the market as affordable rentals. We are creating an affordable housing pool to preserve units. Within the year, we will have thirty-one units. We are also extremely excited about the many developments that have opened and are under construction. These two can be easily found on our website. Our City has a CRA and two Safe Neighborhood Districts. The CRA continues with its many successful programs. From residential grants to business grants. We are serious about improving our City. The CRA will sunset in two years. We held a workshop about what direction to take, and most of the city commission would rather establish a citywide economic development division. We also want to continue many of the assistance programs that help residents and spur economic growth development. Commissioners Anabelle Lima-Taub summed it up best when she said, “We are not getting rid of the CRA, we are expanding access to programs citywide.” Dr. Earle is working on a transition plan which will include our extremely talented staff that understand economic development. In the meantime, I ask you all to check out the CRA website and take advantage of the great opportunities. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit me on my Facebook page at Mayor Joy Cooper. Like! Follow! And share! Previous Next

Crazy Weather - Be Prepared: We Are At The Peak of Hurricane Season September 15, 2022 Share There’s no denying that crazy weather has been happening all over the world in the past few years. From flooding rains, rising tides and intense storms to increasing air temperature and killer heatwaves, the weather has been dangerously erratic and folks here in South Florida are concerned. After 16,000 years of predictable, stable temperature that allowed civilization to flourish on this earth, the climate is changing before our eyes. Polar glaciers are melting and entire continents are experiencing rising sea levels along with more frequent unbearable heat. Even winters have been more severe in the north with paralyzing snow storms that follow each other when the temperature shifts to record-breaking low freezing levels. Those rising sea levels are of particular concern to us, since we are totally surrounded by water. Florida has long been identified as the state most vulnerable to rising tides and heavy rains. For example, just note West Avenue on Miami Beach and many of the streets in East Hollywood and Hallandale Beach after a good rainfall. Scientific data over the past decades that has been monitoring climate change clearly links these unusual occurrences to rapidly increasing carbon levels that gather in the atmosphere, trapping the heat that normally would disseminate into the stratosphere. This is what they call “The Greenhouse Effect.” The biggest culprits contributing to this man-made dilemma are the variety of carbon emissions from oil and coal-burning buildings, air traffic, vehicles, the use of petroleum products and other energy sources. Predictions over the years were there: triple-digit ‘feels-like’ temperatures that are being felt throughout most of the United States and Europe over the summer, sea levels are expected to rise up to six feet by the time babies who are born today celebrate their 80th birthdays, Plant, Animal and Sea Life Displacement as rain and/or heat effects their natural habitats. Over these past decades, we were aware of these and other life-changing cautions, but now we are beginning to experience it and this is just the beginning. Can We Control The Weather? We can surely try! According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, each of us can do our part in conscientiously making an effort to reduce our own “carbon footprints.” After all, footprints make a trail and trails become roads and highways. They start somewhere. We can begin by purchasing higher efficient appliances and replacing older air conditioning systems, water heaters, laundry machines and kitchen appliances. Check for tax incentives and you probably will find a happy surprise on your energy bill. We can also try to cut down on plastic. Get used to bringing reusable bags when shopping. In most of Europe, shoppers are charged for each plastic bag they request, so they bring their own. Some big box stores and markets here in the United States have already implemented no-bagging as their practice. Think electric cars. Every gallon of gas we burn contributes 25 pounds of heat-trapping gas into the atmosphere. Erase the thought that the efforts you make won’t matter. To paraphrase another famous quote, “One small carbon footprint from each of us can contribute to a giant leap for humanity.” It’s Peak Hurricane Season – Be Prepared As we head into the peak of hurricane season, now is a good time to go over your hurricane plan and make sure you’re prepared. You should have enough supplies on hand to be self-sufficient for at least seven days after a storm. Find out what should be in your Hurricane Kit, as well as other storm safety tips, by visiting the City of Hollywood’s Hurricane Season Preparedness webpage at: www.hollywoodfl.org/hurricane Or the page offered by the City of Hallandale Beach: https://www.hallandalebeachfl.gov/1364/Hurricanes-Tropical-Storms Peak Hurricane Season and Rainy Season go hand-in-hand. Many areas in Hollywood & Hallandale Beach are prone to flooding from heavy rains. Some floods develop slowly, while others such as flash floods can develop in just a few minutes. Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live or work, but especially if you are in low-lying areas or near water. Here are some important Flood Safety Tips: • Motorists should not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Remember, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” • Do not wade or play in standing flood water, which can contain contaminants, harmful Bacteria, sharp debris and other items that could cause injury or infection. • Be prepared to notify your Homeowner’s Insurance Provider if you experience flood damage and seek their advice on documenting the damage and drying out your home. • The same applies for contacting your Vehicle’s Insurance Provider if you find your vehicle has been damaged. For more information on how to protect yourself and your property from flood hazards, visit the Florida Division of Emergency Management at: https://www.floridadisaster.org/ The City Of Hollywood’s Alert System Sign up for the 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. Visit the “Alert Hollywood Page” on the City Of Hollywood’s WebSite for the link to register. 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, Text Message Fees by your Wireless Carrier may apply depending on your mobile phone plan. Register today: https://www.hollywoodfl.org/725/Alert-Hollywood The City Of Hallandale Beach Alert System The City Of Hallandale Beach uses the Everbridge Mass Notification System to alert residents via Text and Robo Call of Critical and Emergency Situations. The App is designed to work when connectivity is limited. You can sign up to receive these alerts by downloading the Everbridge Mobile App on your Smartphone at: https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085617939#/signup < Previous News Next News >

Hallandale Beach Union Contract Update By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper May 20, 2021 Share In my last article, I mentioned our Police Contract but wanted to go more into to detail and touch on a recent incident that took place at our last election. In my last article, I mentioned our Police Contract but wanted to go more into to detail and touch on a recent incident that took place at our last election, in my opinion, it was a petty complaint that adversely effected one of our officers. Since 2018, our City has been negotiating with our Police Union, to settle their contract. Obviously, our Police Department has been going through many issues. The number one issue has been under staffing, a reduction in training and the resigning of our SWAT Team. Frankly, the number one job of our commission, in my opinion, is public safety and over the past years, the ball was dropped when it came to this vital service. A tentative agreement was reached in March that is moving through the process of drafting an ordinance for adopting the contract and ratification. The Union has already voted yes, however, the negotiations took so long, that we had to approve 2 contracts. Once ratified, the 2018-2020 contract and then, the 2020- 2023 contract will give some stability to both police operations and to our City budget. The 2018-2020 contract remained as status quo with a focus on changes to 2020-2023 contract. As a note, the City by statute, can only approve three years at a time. The highlights of the changes to benefits include: The retro Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) of 2.5%, 3% COLA for 2021 and 3% COLA for 2022. There will also be a $100 shift differential, changes to sick leave payout and sick leave buy back. The City will discontinue contributions to the Retirement Healthcare Savings (RHS) and will now make 1% contributions to a voluntary 401K match. The other changes will help with retention and with long-term pension issues. There was an increase in the CAP to $110,000 dollars for both pension Tiers. We did add a DROP to Tier II employees. Deferred retirement, is where employees can go into retirement but, they can still work. This move is cost neutral as long as the pension makes money, the drop member will only receive the pension gains from 0% to 6%. In the past, the return was guaranteed at 6%, no matter what the ROI was on the pension fund. Members entering the DROP, will be able to elect to receive a cash contribution to a non-pension tax deferred account for unused vacation days with a cap of 336 hours. There is always a give and take in negotiations, so, members will see an increase to their contribution rate from 9.5% t0 11.5%, beginning in 2022 and this will reduce City costs. We also have a commitment, that the Pension Board cannot make any changes nor decisions that increase City or member contributions. They did this in the past, which created a lawsuit between the City and the Board. The approval of a contract is a step in the right direction. Our Police Officers and IUPA Union President, Peter Occasion came out loud and clear this past election and showed their frustrations. In a bold move, they supported Dmitry Yakobovich, a resident and successful President of The Beach Club. They worked very hard to unseat incumbent, Commissioner Michele Lazarow. Commissioner Lazarow was a vocal supporter of the defunding and transfer of resources out of the department for social services. The commissioner retained her seat in a very heated and often visceral race between herself and 4 other candidates. I am bringing up the past due to a recent issue of the Sun Sentinel. During the race, verbal attacks came out on both sides. As a note, campaigning off duty officers, should have the right to speak their peace. Which, even the commissioner agreed. They really unnerved her, to the point that she filed a complaint over a comment from the President who used to be a good friend. Apparently, in the last race, she was supported by them and when she won, she gave him a friendly kiss. He joked with her that he “guessed he was not going to get a kiss this time.” I bring this up, because in my opinion, this was retaliatory and filed under the guise of “Me Too.” You cannot have it both ways, kissing someone one day and then complaining about a joking comment of kissing, the next day. I am disappointed that the complaint was even moved forward. Many of us, including myself had to deal with negative campaigning. She simply did not like how heated, it became. Ironically, she is part of the group that has introduced this level of negative campaigning to our community, she was even part of a PAC that attacked me, during the campaign, as well. We can only guess, as to who reported this information to the Sun Sentinel, but the person's identity, is still unknown. Sadly, not only was it in the paper, but it is also in an unblemished record of a dedicated and passionate officer. I went on record at our meeting about how wrong this was to interfere with the life and livelihood of one of our officers over a petty complaint that I am sure to be attacked, by standing up for common sense. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City, a better place. I am available by phone/text at: (954) 632-5700. You can e-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit my Facebook at: MayorJoyCooper. Like It! Friend It! Share! < Previous News Next News >

Why Choosing Clean, Traceable Beauty Products Is Essential June 11, 2021 Share What does clean mean when it comes to beauty products? (BPT) - The products you put on your body matter as much as the ones you put in your body. That's why so many cosmetic labels now include buzzwords like "clean," "natural" or "organic." Unless you're a clean beauty connoisseur, it's hard to know why terms like "clean" or "traceable" are important when choosing the best brands and products for you. That's why some companies are taking steps to spell out what these terms mean for their products. What does clean mean when it comes to beauty products? "Clean" can mean different things for different products. Are certain ingredients clean? What about certain manufacturing practices? For beauty, clean generally means that a product is safe and has a transparent ingredient label. "Traceable" means that the company can trace the ingredients back to the source. That's important because the bloodstream can absorb skincare products and cosmetics, leading to potentially dangerous health risks. Products applied to your skin should be beneficial for you and for the world around you. Ingredients to put on the 'No' list When searching for clean makeup and skincare, a good place to start is choosing items that match your goals and your skincare standards. One strategy companies use is to develop a 'No' list to help identify unnecessary and harmful ingredients versus those that are safe, effective, compliant with regulations and reviewed by a toxicologist. Trusted brands will be detailed and transparent about their ingredients. If you have to look too hard to find the information, you might want to think twice before using it. Ingredients to put on the 'Yes' list Clean beauty products avoid toxic and dangerous ingredients. They also prioritize the best ingredients, both naturally derived and synthetic, to create safe, effective formulas. Just like the definition of "clean," that can mean different things for different brands. For some it means using powerful botanicals rich in plant nutrients. It's also a good idea to think about where your products are coming from and how they're made. That traceability is one of the best assurances you can get for clean and safe beauty products. Registered for your peace of mind Clean beauty standards can still be up for interpretation - so let the buyer beware. It's always a good idea to seek out third-party validation for brand statements and claims. If you want to ensure that these products are not tested on animals, you'll want them to be registered with vegansociety.com. To qualify for registration, products must meet specific criteria assessed by a team from The Vegan Society that double-checks for any potential inclusion of animal ingredients. Setting clean beauty goals Look for brands that evolve with the beauty industry and continuously monitor the latest science, regulations and public concerns about clean beauty. Some product makers are working to improve product formulations and further increase environmental stewardship, including expanding the number of traceable ingredients. Spurred by the goal to improve products for consumers while being conscious of environmental impact, the Artistry team at Amway created detailed Artistry Clean Guidelines for future product launches. The guidelines call for vegan formulas, pure and safe ingredients, traceability for key botanical ingredients and better manufacturing processes, among other requirements. "We're setting ambitious goals to improve our product formulations and further increase our environmental stewardship," said Marisa Grossnickle, brand manager for Amway North America. "We will continuously monitor the latest science, regulations and public concerns to ensure we are delivering pure, safe and effective products to you." Are you ready to make better beauty choices? Start looking at the labels and get ready to swap out your products for cleaner options. < Previous News Next News >

A Message From The Mayor: Participation And Government Transparency By Larisa Svechin, Mayor - www.sibfl.net April 27, 2023 Share Past articles have chided residents for not being involved enough. So, what keeps people from participating? A question dogging many municipalities. It is important that good public participation practices are in place so that residents can help the City be more accountable and responsive. If previous attempts proved unsuccessful, we need to do better. “Every opinion which embodies somewhat of the portion of truth which the common opinion omits, ought to be considered precious, with whatever amount of error and confusion that truth may be blended,” said John Stuart Mill. Recently the City was challenged to review current policies so that we can engage citizens in a more significant way. Studies show that community involvement increases when the public is given basic and easily accessible methods of bringing attention to policy issues. Currently, the City holds senior roundtables, teen talks and monthly Commission Meetings. All three methods aim to capture different demographic groups during days and times convenient for them. Is that enough? We have public forums, surveys and direct comments as available mechanisms for engaging residents in the master transit and master park's studies. Have you participated? As your mayor, it is my job to ensure the taxpayer’s money is spent wisely and carefully. Your participation efforts are extremely valuable. However, inadequately designed efforts may simply waste valuable staff time and financial resources. Worse, ineffective efforts can create the inverse effect, which may increase public cynicism if it is perceived that input has not been taken seriously. I urge you to sign up for Email Blasts, read notices, talk to neighbors, attend one of our Town Halls or simply call me. As the City begins planning the Budget for the next Fiscal Year, I am asking for your input—this input and subsequent participation will help improve the public’s perception of governmental performance and the value the public receives from their government. A true test of good government is transparency. It is a core value of governmental Budgeting. Developing a Transparent Budget process advances the government’s credibility and trust in the community. Citizen involvement in the Budget process will increase public trust and the community’s perception of access. Contact Mayor Larisa Svechin at: mayor@sibfl.net Or: (305) 792-1753. < Previous News Next News >

West Hollywood Hosts Full Weekend Of Community Events By City of Hollywood Jan 7, 2026 West Hollywood Is Full Of Family-Friendly Fun This Weekend, With Events That Invite Residents To Read, Create, Celebrate And Connect. The weekend begins Friday, January 9th, 2026 with the monthly Storytime in the Park event from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Kay Gaither Community Center, 6291 Funston Street, Hollywood, Florida 33023. The series is held at locations throughout District 6, featuring surprise guest readers and a relaxed setting for families. Each child will receive a free book to take home, courtesy of the Children’s Services Council and Broward Reads. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, and blankets will be provided for children to sit comfortably. This month’s guest reader is Sadiqa Williams-Glusman, Co-Founder of Seven Hills Garden and Soil. A nature educator and community gardener, Williams-Glusman is passionate about helping children and families grow food together while building connections. She will read a nature-inspired children’s book and share her love of gardening and storytelling to encourage both literacy and an appreciation for the natural world. On Saturday morning, January 10th, 2026, Buckets of Joy Recycle & Grow takes place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Kay Gaither Community Center. The community celebration focuses on sustainability, gardening and creativity, featuring recycling education, eco-awareness activities, hands-on planting and opportunities for children to create their own art. The event is designed for all ages and emphasizes local connection through shared experiences. The weekend concludes Saturday evening with Hollywood West Salsa Fest at the Boulevard Heights Community Center & Amphitheater, located at 6770 Garfield Street, Hollywood, Florida 33024. Enjoy live Latin music, dancing and a festive outdoor atmosphere from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Families will also have the opportunity to meet the Three Kings, who will be on site greeting children and distributing gifts. Admission is free. Together, the events offer a full weekend of activities that reflect the culture, creativity and community spirit of West Hollywood. For more information on the Hollywood West Salsa Fest, visit: www.melinasalsamusic.com . Electronics Drop-Off Event Join your neighbors this Saturday, January 10th, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Electronics Drop-Off Event. The City of Hollywood is hosting an Electronics Drop-Off Event on Saturday, January 10th, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the City Hall parking lot, located at 2600 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33020. Residents can drop off unwanted electronics including TVs, computers, keyboards, monitors, printers, stereos, small appliances and more for proper recycling. This event is for electronics only and is not a Household Hazardous Waste drop-off. Previous Next

Welcome the World to Holiday Gatherings Family Features December 22, 2022 Share The traditional dishes served year after year at your family's holiday gatherings may bring comfort and a sense of nostalgia, but you can open your loved ones up to a whole new world by incorporating recipes from around the globe. People of all different cultures across the Earth are often connected by food, whether it's a classic holiday dish or a unique take on a traditional dish, like this raisin-infused Challah. While the dishes themselves may drastically differ, using similar ingredients can be a unifying thread. For those looking to pull off worldly cuisines this holiday season, consider a familiar and nearly universal ingredient like raisins, an innovative and delicious addition incorporated in culturally diverse dishes. On top of their versatile flavor, Sun-Maid Raisins offer a better-for-you whole fruit option with no added sugar per 1/4-cup serving. Consider these global recipe ideas enjoyed at holiday gatherings around the world. Germany • Apple Strudel: Quite possibly one of the most famous German desserts of all, raisins add a delicious chewiness to this traditional strudel. • Lebkuchen: A traditional German cake similar to gingerbread that's full of sweet spices, walnuts, dates and raisins. Italy • Cuccidati Siciliani: Typically at their most popular during the holiday season, these Italian fig cookies feature raisins inside the deliciously fruity filling. • Panettone: Also a holiday favorite, Panettone is a towering round of sweet bread speckled with raisins, citrus and almonds. England • Fruitcake: Traditional fruitcake is chock-full of dried raisins, golden raisins, cherries, dates, pineapple and apricots soaked in dark tea overnight. • Bread Pudding: This English staple uses stale bread, spices, sweetener and raisins to create a dense and delicious cake. Poland • Cinnamon-Raisin Rugelach: These flavorful pastries are characterized by a melt-in-your-mouth cheese-based dough with a sweet cinnamon, raisin and walnut filling. Greece • Christopsomo: Considered sacred in many Greek households and translating to "Christ's Bread," this revered dish is usually prepared the day before Christmas Eve and is served with nothing but bare hands at the table. Raisins, nuts, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg are all found throughout the loaf. Armenia • Ghapama: A baked pumpkin stuffed with partially cooked rice, raisins, nuts, cinnamon and honey. Ireland • Irish Soda Bread: The cakey texture of this Irish favorite is complemented by sweet, chewy raisins throughout the loaf. Visit: www.SunMaid.com to find more recipes perfect for holiday gatherings. Crown Raisin Challah Yield: 3 loaves Dough: • 2 Envelopes (1/4 ounce each) Active Dry Yeast • 1/2 Cup of Sugar • 1/4 Cup of Honey • 3 Cups of Warm Water • 2 Teaspoons of Cinnamon • 1/3 Cup of Olive Oil • 2 Extra-Large Eggs, plus 3 Egg Yolks • 2 Tablespoons of Kosher Salt • 1 Cup of Sun-Maid Raisins • 3 Cups of Bread Flour • 6 1/2 Cups of All-Purpose Flour Egg Wash: • 2 Extra-Large Eggs • 2 Tablespoons of Sugar To make dough: In a big bowl, mix Yeast, Sugar, Honey and Warm Water. Let yeast bloom for about 7 minutes. Add Cinnamon, Oil, Eggs, Egg Yolks and Salt. Mix well. Add the Raisins. Add the Flour and mix it until it is sticky. The Dough should be a creamy yellow. Turn Dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 12-15 minutes, or until it is smooth. Oil the bowl, place the dough back in the bowl and cover it tight with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled. Punch the Dough down, cover it and let it rise for another 45 minutes. Punch down again and cut it into three equal pieces. Let rest about 10 minutes then roll each piece into snakes about 30 inches long; taper at one end. Starting with a thick end, roll each snake into a spiral shape like a snail shell. Use a little water and stick a tapered end onto the body of the spiral. Mold into place with hands. Oil loaves lightly, cover with plastic wrap and let rise until poofy, about 25 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375 F. To make Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the Eggs and the Sugar. Gently brush the loaves with the Egg Wash, taking care not to deflate them. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the loaves are golden. Let cool completely. < Previous News Next News >

Beyond Immediate Relatives: Understanding Family Preference Visas By Mary Wilkowski Sep 3, 2026 This Article Is Part II Of A Series On Family-Based Immigration To The United States. For many families, immigration to the United States is about more than just spouses, parents, and young children. U.S. immigration law also provides opportunities for certain extended family members to obtain lawful permanent resident status through what are known as family preference visas. While these visas can ultimately lead to a green card and a path to U.S. citizenship, they operate differently from immediate relative visas and often require considerably more patience. Family preference visas allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, commonly known as green card holders, to sponsor specific qualifying relatives for permanent residence. These visas are divided into five categories: • The F1 preference category for over 21, unmarried children of U.S. citizens; •The F2A preference category for spouses of lawful permanent residents and their unmarried children under 21; • The F2B preference category for over 21 children of a lawful permanent resident; • The F3 preference category for married children of U.S citizens; and • The F4 preference category for over 21 siblings of U.S. citizens. Unlike immediate relative visas, family preference visas are subject to annual numerical quotas. As a result, applicants often face waiting periods that can last for years, and many categories are highly backlogged. But despite these delays, family preference visas offer significant benefits. Successful applicants become lawful permanent residents, allow for derivative beneficiaries (i.e., the principal applicant’s spouse and children under 21 as per the Child Status Protection Act may also obtain permanent resident status) as part of the same immigration process, and may eventually apply for U.S. citizenship after five years as a lawful permanent resident. What is the F1 preference category? The F1 preference category is available to the unmarried sons and daughters, age 21 or older, of U.S. citizens. To qualify, the applicant must be at least 21 years old, establish the parent-child relationship, and remain unmarried throughout the process. Marriage changes eligibility under this category and may instead require the applicant to pursue an F3 preference visa. What is the F2A preference category? The F2A preference category is available to the spouses of lawful permanent residents as well as their unmarried children who are the under the age of 21. Applicants must provide evidence establishing the qualifying relationship. For spouses, this includes evidence demonstrating that the marriage is bona fide. One advantage of the F2A preference category is that it often has shorter waiting periods than many of the other family preference categories. The F2A preference category also accommodates changes in circumstances that can occur during the immigration process. For example, if the lawful permanent resident petitioner later becomes a U.S. citizen through naturalization, the pending F2A case may be converted to an immediate relative petition, such as an IR-1/CR-1 or IR-2 petition, potentially changing the applicant's immigration pathway. What is the F2B preference category? The F2B preference category serves unmarried sons and daughters who are 21 years of age or older whose parent is a lawful permanent resident. Applicants must submit sufficient evidence to establish the parent-child relationship. If the sponsoring parent later naturalizes, the applicant's petition may be converted to an F1 category application. What is the F3 preference category? The F3 preference category is intended for the married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens. Applicants must establish both the parent-child relationship. One of the distinguishing features of the F3 category is that it allows derivative beneficiaries. Although this category offers an opportunity for an entire nuclear family to immigrate together, applicants should expect a significant waiting period. What is the F4 preference category? The F4 preference category permits U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old to sponsor their brothers and sisters for lawful permanent residence. The petitioner must establish the qualifying sibling relationship, and, like the other preference categories, derivative beneficiaries are permitted. As a result, an approved applicant's spouse and children may also obtain lawful permanent resident status without filing separate petitions. Among all of the family preference categories, however, the F4 preference visa generally has the longest waiting period. Understanding which family preference category applies to a particular relationship is an important first step in the immigration process. In addition, it is critical to understand the interplay of the Child Status Protection Act and the Opt In/Opt Out provisions to strategically move in and out of preference categories in a manner that will include as many family members as possible and/or complete the process in the fastest manner possible. Preference category visas require patience and strategic planning because of annual quotas with lengthy backlogs and other variables that can affect the process significantly. They provide valuable opportunities for families to reunite in the United States, eventually obtain permanent residence, and, ultimately, U.S. citizenship. Careful preparation and thorough documentation are important components of a successful application. Consulting an immigration attorney can help families understand the available options, identify potential complications and approach the process with greater confidence. At Polatsek, Boheme & Wilkowski , we guide families, individuals, and businesses through U.S. immigration with a single goal: making your next step clear and achievable. About the Author: Mary Wilkowski is an immigration attorney and partner at Polatsek, Boheme & Wilkowski. The firm advises employers and families on work visas, PERM labor certification, and permanent residence under U.S. immigration law. The firm’s attorneys provide guidance on H-1B sponsorship, employment-based green cards, investor visas, and family immigration matters. Mary can be reached at: 954-566-0377. Or: clientservices@polatsek.law . Polatsek, Boheme & Wilkowski 500 West Cypress Creek Road, Suite 650 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309 This article includes general information only that is intended to help consumers learn about the legal system. It does not constitute legal advice and must not be relied upon or used as a substitute for the counsel and services provided by a licensed attorney. You should refrain from acting on the basis of this information alone without seeking legal advice from a qualified attorney. Mary Polatsek Previous Next