Sweethearts In Search Of Home: Sadie And Bubbles Are Ready For Their Next Chapter South Florida Sun Times Sep 3, 2025 At the Humane Society of Broward County, two very different but equally lovable animals are waiting patiently for their second chance. One is a quirky, shepherd-looking pup with a heart full of loyalty. The other, a spunky little tuxedo kitten with a playful streak. While they may come from different backgrounds and have their own unique personalities, Sadie and Bubbles share one important thing in common: both are ready to fill a forever home with joy, fun, and unconditional love. Sadie: The Short-Legged Sweetheart Sadie may not fit neatly into any one breed category - she resembles a shepherd, but her short legs add a unique twist. What she may lack in pedigree, she more than makes up for in personality. At three years old, Sadie has already worn a few hats in life, including that of a loving mama dog. She arrived at the shelter after being transferred from another facility, and while her past remains a bit of a mystery, her future is looking bright and her heart is full of love. For a brief time, Sadie found herself in a home with an older gentleman who was charmed by her gentle spirit and eager to give her a chance. Although it turned out that Sadie’s energy level and playful nature were a little more than he had expected, their time together revealed a lot about what makes this dog so special. She’s house-trained, sleeps peacefully through the night, and adores her morning and evening walks. Her love of toys, intelligence, and affectionate nature make her a joy to be around. Sadie also gets along well with other dogs and thrives in a loving, active environment. What she needs now is a family who’s ready to embrace her lively spirit—one that will take her on daily adventures, toss around her favorite toys, and provide the affection she so willingly gives. Whether it’s hiking trails or cozying up for a movie night, Sadie is the kind of dog who will be by your side through it all. Bubbles: A Kitten with Big Personality Then there’s Bubbles, a four-month-old tuxedo kitten with energy to spare and a lot of love to give. When Bubbles first arrived at the shelter, he wasn’t in the best condition. A rough start and skin issues left him in need of some serious TLC, but thanks to the dedicated care of the Humane Society’s clinic staff, Bubbles is now healthy, thriving, and more adorable than ever. His black and white fur gives him the appearance of a well-dressed gentleman, but don’t let the tuxedo fool you—Bubbles is all about fun. He’s curious, playful, and endlessly entertaining. He’s also the last of his litter to be adopted, having watched his brothers and sisters find their forever homes one by one. Kittens like Bubbles do best when they have a playmate, which is why adopting two kittens can be a great option. Whether you already have a cat at home or are open to welcoming another kitten alongside Bubbles, he’s sure to bring joy, laughter, and lots of antics to your household. How to Adopt Both Sadie and Bubbles are available for adoption at the Humane Society of Broward County, located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. If either of these sweethearts has captured your heart—or if you’re simply looking to add a new furry friend to your family—the first step is to complete a pre-adoption application online at: https://www.humanebroward.com The shelter's adoption kennels are open daily starting at 11:00 a.m., giving you ample opportunity to meet Sadie, Bubbles, and many other pets hoping for a home. For questions, you can call: (954) 989-3977 and speak with a knowledgeable staff member. Whether you’re a dog lover seeking a loyal companion or a cat enthusiast looking for a playful sidekick, Sadie and Bubbles are shining examples of the love and companionship that shelter pets have to offer. Their next chapter is just waiting to be written—could it start with you? Sadie - ID#: 701219 Previous Next

A City Rich In History: Our Community Is Lucky To Have Raised Many Individuals That Have Put our City on The Map Thu Mar 02 2023 17:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Hollywood Art & Culture Center - Acquires Cinema Paradiso As Part Of Its Strategic Growth As An Arts Destination South Florida Sun Times May 29, 2025 The Hollywood Art And Culture Center (The Center), Celebrating Its 50th Anniversary, Will Be Assuming Operations Of The 72-Seat Art House Movie Theater Cinema Paradiso Located At 2008 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33020. This New Endeavor Is Part Of The Center’s Strategic Plan To Establish Programs For Emerging And Established Local Filmmakers, And Offer Workshops For Film, Sound Design, Editing, Music Production, Animation And Motion Design. “In the arts, nothing remains the same. Creativity has no bounds and artists are constantly evolving and reimagining everything around them,” said Jennifer Homan, Executive Director of the Hollywood Art and Culture Center. “Adding Cinema Paradiso is a bridge to expand our reach and presence in South Florida as a 50-year-old cultural institution that showcases all visual and performing arts.” Cinema Paradiso will serve as The Center’s dedicated theater for screenings of first run, arthouse and independent films. The addition of the movie theater is aligned with the anticipated opening of the Arts Education Center scheduled for this October. The Center is no stranger to film as the producer of the award-winning Open Dialogues documentary film short series which debuted in 2020. Films such as Queer Allies and Black Voices | Black Stories received regional Emmys in back-to-back years, both winning Telly Awards among other laurels. Gen QueerZ was selected by both the 2025 Fort Lauderdale International and Miami Film Festivals and accepted into the South Florida PBS filmmaker project, paving the way for Visionary Director Freddy Rodriguez and Center Producer Jeff Rusnak to potentially win their third Emmy. “As an organization celebrating our golden anniversary and looking to the future, we will continue to evolve and reimagine all that we do,’’ said Tim Curtin, Chair of the Hollywood Art and Culture Center’s Board of Directors. “It is part of our own cultural renaissance which will be a wonderful gift to the community with the ability to deliver diverse programming, classes and workshops.” Cinema Paradiso was previously managed and operated by The Broward County Film Society which produces the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival, which will continue to operate Savor Cinema in Fort Lauderdale. The organization has generously extended their expertise and continued assistance throughout the transition. “Over the past decade, we have been proud of the programming we have presented at Cinema Paradiso and are thrilled to pass the baton to the Hollywood Art and Culture Center as they celebrate their 50th Anniversary, cultivating art and cultural engagements in downtown Hollywood,” said Lisa Grigorian, President/CEO of the Broward County Film Society. The Broward County Film Society and Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival member benefits will remain intact for the next year. The Center will continue its collaboration with the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival and other film groups while defining and expanding new partnerships. Under the new management, Cinema Paradiso will be one of 1,500 nationwide cinemas to premiere Wes Anderson's The Phoenician Scheme, a dark tale of espionage following a strained father-daughter relationship within a family business. A screening and premiere reception is set for June 6. About Hollywood Art and Culture Center Founded in 1975, the Hollywood Art and Culture Center is a respected NonProfit Organization dedicated to showcasing the arts for all ages. Year-round programming, which includes exhibitions, Broadway and summer camps, live theatre, education, documentary films and more, contributes to its continued success as a leading cultural institution that strives to improve connection, communication and well-being through art and cultural experiences. The organization is supported by its members, guest admissions, public partners and private entities. The Center is located at 1650 Harrison Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020. For more information, please call: (954) 921-3274. Or visit: www.artandculturecenter.org . (Photos courtesy of Hollywood Art and Culture Center.) The Hollywood Art and Culture Center’s Producer Jeff Rusnak (left) and Director Freddy Rodriguez (right) accept Emmys for the film Queer Allies at the Suncoast Regional Emmy Awards in December 2024. This was a 2nd Emmy Award win in as many years. As part of the City of Hollywood's vision to increase arts programming in our city, the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood will expand its current Kagey Home facility with the construction of a new, nearly 5,000-square-foot arts education wing that will be distinct and contemporary. Previous Next

The State of Hallandale Beach By Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper May 17, 2024 Share This is the time of year I deliver my State of the City Address. It was held at Gulfstream Park and hosted by the Hallandale Beach Chamber. The following article is Part I. I have left it in speech form and will be sharing the other parts the next few weeks. I hope you enjoy it. I must note this does not encompass every issue we are addressing. Please know that I along with the Commission and our entire Staff have been working hard to ensure our City is providing the vital services you depend on. I hope you continue reading my articles which are focused on important Commission actions that impact your daily lives. I want to give a special thanks to all of today’s sponsors as well as the Madame President and the Board of Directors of our Hallandale Beach Chamber of Commerce. You all are part of a tradition that started back in the 1600 hundreds in Marseille, France and was brought to the U.S. in 1915. The rich tradition is based on the knowledge that main street businesses are the lifeblood in our nation’s economy. Thank you for taking your time out of your daily lives and your professions to hear about our wonderful City. So how is the State of our City? Just look at some recent headlines. Today, I am here to share; where we were, where we are and our plans for the future. So, I figure I will be here for a few hours. Only joking. Our City has been extremely busy! Municipal government must provide services that are vital to the quality of life of our residents. We do not get to choose. We are not based on profit but on uniting human capital and resources to deliver life sustaining services to our residents. My duty as Mayor is to be a spokesperson for our City. As the Chair of our Board of Directors, our Commission is responsible for providing the vision and oversight to ensure these services are delivered efficiently and effectively. While we do not run day-to-day operations we certainly will be and are held accountable for everything that happens in these four-square miles. I often get asked why you do what you do. The short answer is I genuinely enjoy helping people. I also enjoy learning from the everyday problem solving for our residents and stakeholders I serve. Frankly, I would not want it any other way. In short, I am the head of the customer's complaint department. Let's face it, nothing goes as planned. But we are the government, and we are here to help. And I am not joking. While we can study plans and execute them there are many things that can impact the outcome. Even when things go as planned, great leaders know that we need to continue to reevaluate. How can we do it even better, faster and with less cost? I am grateful for the hard work, experience and integrity of our City Manager Dr. Jeremey Earle and our entire Staff whose efforts are showing dividends. Five years ago, some of you may recall our budget was in critical condition. Without aggressive austerity measures we would have been faced with fiscal insolvency. I want to start with what I called the “new beginning” when I can honestly say there was and remains civility within the commission. In today’s political climate it is a rare thing. In August 2020, Dr. Earle agreed to be acting City Manager. In hindsight his plan was very strategic. While he had a knowledge of the City and CRA he did not know just how bad things were -- or did he? In the scheme of things, the budget that year would be the budget he adopted after years of dysfunction. Down 20 police officers, All departments had vacancies. There was not one large scale capital project done. The GO Bond Parks were delayed. The Major Southwest Flooding Project has still not been completed. A $6-Million-Dollar Water Plant Expansion had been funded but never started. The ship was sinking and was being plugged in with one-time fixes. Dr. Earle was tasked with righting the ship. He could have bailed but instead he started bailing. He charted a way forward. I hope you continue to follow my speech in next week’s column. I can be reached at: jcooper@cohb.org Or: joycooper@aol.com or Facebook Mayor Joy Cooper. You can always call me on my office number at: (954) 457-1318. Or Call/Text me at: (954) 632-5700 Working for you! Always have! Always will! < Previous News Next News >

Looking For An Idea Family Vacation - 5 Reasons This Northwest Resort Will Be Your Favorite By BPT Jun 18, 2025 Daydreaming About Your Next Family Getaway? Look No Further Than Northwest Florida! The Location And Climate Are Ideal, And Thanks To Its Recent $35 Million Makeover, The Sensational Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa In South Walton, Florida, Offers Everything You Could Wish For In A Vacation Destination. Here are the 5 top reasons why this resort will be your ultimate family paradise. 1. It's all about that beach Wish you were on the beach right now? As the largest full-service beachfront resort on Northwest Florida's Gulf Coast, Hilton Sandestin Beach lets you immerse yourself in calm, clear emerald-green water and sink your toes into the pristine white sandy beach. You'll enjoy exclusive sun-bathing, sandcastle building, swimming, and soaking up the stunning views such as one of the most colorful sunsets you'll ever see along Miramar Beach. When all that swimming and sunbathing makes you hungry and thirsty, Barefoot's Beachside Bar & Grill lets you dine and sip while gazing out at the Gulf. And when you need a break from sand and saltwater, you can enjoy the two outdoor pools, and whirlpools. Rainy day? No worries. Hilton Sandestin Beach has thought of everything, including a newly renovated indoor pool in a spacious tropical-themed atrium. 2. Endless fun Adventure awaits at Hilton Sandestin Beach and beyond! Whether you're up for a round of golf at world-class courses, or a game of beach volleyball, tennis, biking, paddleboarding, or kayaking, this resort has it all. The resort is also near several off-property opportunities for water sports galore, like snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, and fishing. Nearby, explore the surrounding area by taking a complimentary shuttle to the Village of Baytowne Wharf for family-friendly attractions like zip lines, water parks, a rope course, go-karts, shopping, seasonal events and live music, and more. For a change of pace, you can also visit nearby state parks, including the Underwater Museum of Art, which is a diving area located off the state park where five resort-sponsored sculptures can be found among the growing aquatic installation 58 feet below the water's surface. 3. Total relaxation Need a place to chill beyond all that fun in the sun? Hilton Sandestin Beach is able to recommend local babysitting services, allowing parents to unwind at the renovated Serenity by the sea Spa - a world-class 14,500-Square-Foot Spa offering an extensive menu of treatments, relaxation areas with cascading whirlpools, sauna and steam rooms, plush robes, zero-gravity loungers, and a 24-hour fitness center featuring top-of-the-line Precor equipment and Peloton stationary bikes, with fitness classes like Yoga, Pilates, and more. Relax with your partner in the spa's new area for couples, complete with a wet bar and cozy fireplace. Adding to the wide selection of facials, body treatments, massages, salon services and rejuvenating experiences, the spa now offers new features including touchless wellness, using innovative technology to offer individualized experiences - like Hydrojet Massages or Prism Red Light Pad Therapy. If you want to update your look, the full-service spa also offers two styling rooms with a wide range of hair, makeup, and nail services. 4. Unforgettable events Celebrating a momentous occasion? From weddings and anniversaries to birthdays, reunions, and more, Hilton Sandestin Beach has you covered with customizable venue options and group activities. The resort offers three main ballrooms, in addition to numerous outdoor and indoor event spaces of different sizes suitable for all kinds of get-togethers - plus event planners to work alongside each couple or family to plan their special occasion. Spa treatments, beachfront yoga on the deck, dining experiences, volleyball tournaments, beach relay races, and more can enhance your celebration. For soon-to-be newlyweds, Hilton Sandestin Beach is one of the only resorts in the Northwest Florida area offering an all-encompassing wedding experience. Your full wedding itinerary is customizable - including options from a welcome beach bonfire to a farewell brunch. 5. Culinary delights Savor a variety of on-site dining options at Hilton Sandestin Beach to tantalize your taste buds, including fine dining at Seagar's Prime Steaks & Seafood (the area's only AAA Four-Diamond steakhouse), plus casual eateries like Sandcastle's Restaurant and Lounge, The Coffee Shop, and Hadashi Sushi Bar. Beachside and poolside dining with seasonal hours include Barefoot's Beachside Bar & Grill and Picnix Poolside Market. In-room dining is also available. Plan your visit Ready to make your dream vacation a reality? Great accommodations await you and your family at Hilton Sandestin Beach, with 590 spacious guest rooms and suites including private balconies with partial or full Gulf views, and first-floor rooms feature a covered patio. Junior deluxe suites are ideal for families, with bunk beds and sleeper sofas. The resort also offers ADA-equipped rooms. Explore the possibilities for your next family vacay at: www.HiltonSandestinBeach.com - And check out great package offers at: www.HiltonSandestinBeach.com/vacation-packages . Previous Next

Protected Political Speech? Things Are About To Get Even Dicier For Those Exercising Their Right To Political Expression Thu Oct 13 2022 04:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Budget: Doing More with Less In Sunny Isles Beach By Dana Robin Goldman - www.sibfl.net - Mayor Sunny Isles Beach August 18, 2022 Share Every year the City adopts a Comprehensive Budget & Five Year Capital Improvement Program for the upcoming fiscal year. Our fiscal year begins October 1, but the preparation and work begins much earlier. We commence budget season in April and every department and division is involved in the process. The budget is driven first and foremost by you – our residents. All members of the Commission prepare their top priorities for the budget based on what we learn from speaking with and listening to the citizens of Sunny Isles Beach. Each Commissioner meets with the City Manager and department heads to direct staff on these priorities. In the months to follow, departments work on putting their budgets together. The goal is always to keep costs low without sacrificing the high level of service and quality the City is known for. The budget is one of the City’s most important annual responsibilities as it identifies and prioritizes projects for the upcoming fiscal year. Though it may seem intimidating at 300+ pages, the budget provides a blueprint for departments as they navigate daily and long-term projects throughout the year. As in previous years, the Commission directed City administration to reduce the millage rate, but in doing so, continue to expand services and programs for residents. In a nutshell, doing more with less. The millage rate is how the City’s property taxes are determined. Breaking it down, the millage rate is one tenth of a percent, which equates to $1 in taxes for every $1,000 in home value. Reducing the millage rate by .1 saves a homeowner $1 for every $1,000 in property value. To calculate property tax, you multiply the total taxable value of the property by the millage rate. As an example, a property valued at $200,000 with a millage rate of 2.1 would pay $420 in property tax to the city (e.g., 200,000 x .0021 = 420). Whereas that same property with a millage rate of 2.0, our proposed millage rate, will pay $400 in property tax to the city. The lower the millage rate, the lower your property taxes. The City aims to lower the millage rate again this year, while maintaining and improving upon our offerings. The budget is a City responsibility that each and every department and division plays a significant role. I want to especially recognize the Finance Department, led by Finance Director Tiffany Neely, for their hard work and long hours dedicated to the budget process. It is no simple or easy feat putting together the budget. The Finance Department reviews every number and calculation down to the penny with focus and precision. This month we will hold a budget workshop where the Commission will review and discuss the budget and capital improvement program for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. In September, we will host two Special City Commission Meetings to review and formally adopt the proposed budget. I invite you to attend or watch online to gain a better understanding of how the budget is put together and approved. More details will be posted on https://www.sibfl.net/events/ and our social media pages as well as sent via email in the coming weeks. For questions pertaining to the budget you can contact Mayor Dana Robin Goldman at mayor@sibfl.net or 305.792.1753. If you would like to watch the two Special City Commission Meetings for the 2022-2023 proposed budget, visit https://www.sibfl.net/media/sibtv/ or call the Sunny Isles Beach Media Department at 305-792-1762 to discuss the live stream schedule. < Previous News Next News >

A New Year, A New Beginning: Don't Start Off On The Wrong Foot by Making Excuses Bryan Golden December 22, 2022 Share The New Year is a time of resolutions. It's a time when people commit to making a change in their life. Losing weight, changing jobs, saving money, making money, a new relationship, getting in shape, going back to school, or giving up smoking, are just some of the goals people set for themselves on January 1st. Although it's possible for anyone to make a change or a new start, it takes determination, commitment and persistence. A new goal must be your own. You have to really want it. Without a burning desire, your motivation will fade quickly. It's virtually impossible to make a change due to external pressure. You may agree to what someone else wants you to do, but it's very difficult to succeed without an internal drive. So, in order to successfully make a change or reach a goal, you have to make sure it's what you really want. Don't start off on the wrong foot by making excuses as to why you will probably fail. If you don't truly believe you can do it, you won't. People who do this will say something like, "I'll try to do it, but …” Or you may hear, "I tried before and it didn't work but I'll give it another go." Before you begin, make sure the only things you are telling yourself are, "I can," "I will" and "I will do whatever it takes." A new beginning is a three-step process. You have to first know what you want, formulate a plan to achieve it and then take the necessary action to get it. Setting a specific goal is essential. The more detailed the better. If you want to lose weight, how much and by when? If you want a new job, what will it be and how much will it pay? If you want to save money, how much and how often? Next, you need a plan. Just like your goal, your plan must be as detailed as possible. If you are going to lose weight, what will be on your menu each week? Are you going to go on a specific diet, cut out certain foods, or just eat less? For finding a new job, what will be your strategy? Do you need a new resume? Will you look on line, in the classifieds, use an employment agency, network, cold call, or all of these? If you want to save more money, in what areas will you cut back? Do you know where your money is going? Have you created a budget? You want your plan to be doable. The smaller the steps are, the more likely you will be to succeed. Any time you feel a step is too big, break it down further. It doesn't matter how small each step is so long as you keep going and never give up. Losing 20 pounds may feel overwhelming, but dropping two pounds a month doesn't seem too bad. If you keep at it for 10 months, you will reach your goal. Saving $3000 might appear beyond reach, but cutting back $9 a day on family spending is manageable. Finally, you must take action. The best goals and greatest plans will go nowhere without action. The reason you divided your plan into small sections is so it would be easy to take action, one day at a time. All you have to do is keep going, until you achieve your goal. Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits." Contact Bryan at: Bryan@columnist.com or visit: www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com < Previous News Next News >

America Is Falling Apart - Our National Priorities Are in Dire Need of Restructuring By John & Nisha Whitehead October 24, 2024 Share “You don't need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows.” — Bob Dylan A water main breaks every two minutes somewhere in the U.S., resulting in contaminated drinking supplies and boil water notices. One out of three bridges in the U.S. needs repair, endangering hundreds of millions of commuters. More than 42,000 bridges across the country, carrying about 167 million vehicles each day, are in disrepair. It is estimated that 300 million people could face power outages across the United States between 2024 and 2028, due in large part to widespread power grid failures. No wonder U.S. Infrastructure received a C- on the Infrastructure Report Card. America is falling apart. Collapsing bridges, buckling roads, overheated railways, deteriorating power lines, contaminated water lines, outdated public transportation, overtaxed power grids, aging ports and waterways, unsafe tunnels and highways, and spotty or insufficient telecommunications assets are all becoming frequent hallmarks of the American way of life. If the nation is woefully unprepared to deal with climate disasters such as floods, hurricanes, wildfires, and droughts, despite the hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars that have been pledged to shore up the nation’s Infrastructure problems, it is because politicians across the political spectrum have failed us. The devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene makes this failure by the government to put the needs of the American people first painfully evident. Entire towns are under water. Roadways have collapsed or are otherwise impassable. Potable water is scarce. More than 1.5 million households are still without power. Clearly, our national priorities need to be re-examined. While the politicians play partisan games with our tax dollars, the nation’s critical Infrastructure—both the physical foundations of the nation and the figurative foundations of our freedoms—continues to be neglected and deprioritized in favor of grandstanding, bloated military budgets on endless wars abroad, foreign aid to shore up the Infrastructure and military defenses of international allies and all manner of graft and pork barrel spending. When all is said and done, the bread-and-circus distractions and sleight-of-hand political theater being trotted out in order to keep Americans distracted, deluded, amused, and insulated from the government’s steady encroachments on our freedoms adds nothing of real value to the lives of the average American. It’s time to fix what’s broken in this country. For starters, we need an overhaul of the nation’s Infrastructure. According to Time Magazine, “Throughout the country, millions of Americans don’t have access to or can’t afford broadband internet service. In excess of 2 million people live without running water or basic plumbing. For too long, the American public has had to carry on while these deficiencies have gone unattended. The political will has been weak or inattentive, the rewards too far removed from electoral advantage.” In other words, the politicians who dance to the tune of the oligarchic elite aren’t motivated to do anything about our failing Infrastructure because they get nothing out of it: no votes, no money, no power. This isn’t about whether the Republicans or Democrats have better policies. Indeed, both parties’ priorities are disconcertingly alike: both parties support endless war, engage in out-of-control spending, ignore the citizenry’s basic rights, have no respect for the rule of law, are bought and paid for by Big Business, care most about their own power, and have a long record of expanding government and shrinking liberty. This is about the plight of the American people who continue to be treated like a permanent underclass. Anyone who believes that this presidential election will bring about any real change in how the American government does business is either incredibly naive, woefully out-of-touch, or oblivious to the fact that as an in-depth Princeton University study shows, we now live in an oligarchy that is “of the rich, by the rich and for the rich.” When a country spends close to $10 Billion to select what is, for all intents and purposes, a glorified homecoming king or queen to occupy the White House, while 38 million of its people live in poverty, and nearly 7 million Americans are out of work, and more than 600,000 Americans are homeless, that’s a country whose priorities are out of step with the needs of its people. Overhauling the nation’s Infrastructure will take a significant amount of money, which won’t happen as long as the U.S. Government continues to fund the military industrial complex and its voracious appetite for endless wars. James Madison was right: “No nation could preserve its freedom in the midst of continual warfare.” As Madison explained, “Of all the enemies to public liberty war is, perhaps, the most to be dreaded because it comprises and develops the germ of every other. War is the parent of armies; from these proceed debts and taxes… known instruments for bringing the many under the domination of the few.” We are seeing this play out before our eyes. The government is destabilizing the economy, destroying the national Infrastructure through neglect and a lack of resources, and turning taxpayer dollars into blood money with its endless wars, drone strikes and mounting death tolls. This is exactly the scenario President Dwight D. Eisenhower warned would happen if we allowed the military-industrial complex to wage war, exhaust our resources and dictate our national priorities. We failed to heed Eisenhower’s warning. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, this is how tyranny rises and freedom falls. If we are to have any hope of restoring both the structural and freedom foundations of this nation, we’ll need to start by getting our priorities in order, and that means focusing on what really matters: shoring up our battered Bill of Rights and investing in the American homeland. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an Attorney and Author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of Constitutional Law, Human Rights and Popular Culture. John Whitehead's Commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org . Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org . < Previous News Next News >

Annual Water Line Flushing Begins August 25th In Hollywood South Florida Sun Times Aug 6, 2025 The City Of Hollywood Department Of Public Utilities (DPU) Will Conduct Its Annual Water Line Flushing Program From August 25th Through September 28th. This Essential Maintenance Removes Accumulated Sediments From Water Pipes, A Required Practice For All U.S. Water Systems. During flushing, the Water Treatment Plant will temporarily switch from chloramine to free chlorination to aid sediment removal. While this may alter the water's appearance, taste or odor, it remains safe to drink and is regularly tested. DPU staff will systematically open fire hydrants to flush pipes, typically between 8:00 p.m. and midnight. The flushed sediments may cause temporary cloudiness but are harmless and should settle within hours. While free chlorination ends September 28th, line flushing will continue city-wide for several weeks, expected to conclude by October 9th. Individuals with special water concerns, such as businesses with fish/shellfish tanks or users of kidney dialysis machines, should note that regular methods for testing and removing free chlorine may not be effective. Continue testing and adjusting for any remaining chloramines through October 9th. For more information, contact Hollywood’s Division of Water Quality at: (954) 967-4230: Option#: 2. Or the Water Treatment Plant at the same number. Flush Pipes to "Freshen" Water After Extended Absence Returning to Hollywood after an extended period away? Just as the City's water distribution system is flushed annually, flushing household water pipes can be beneficial. Water left stagnant in pipes for weeks or months can dissipate chlorine, potentially allowing bacterial growth and the leaching of contaminants, leading to discoloration, unpleasant odors, or even unhealthy drinking water. For most single-family homes, running water freely from each tap for several minutes should suffice to clear stagnant water. Larger or more complex structures may require longer flushing times, and hot water lines may need separate attention. Remember to replace any expired filters, such as those on refrigerator water lines. For more detailed flushing guidance, consult: www.epa.gov - Or: www.cdc.gov . Previous Next

Happy 100th Miriam Esther Schwartz September 19, 2023 Share Reaching the remarkable milestone of a centenary is a momentous occasion, and Wayne Schwartz is thrilled to announce the 100th birthday of his beloved mother, Miriam Esther Schwartz. Her journey through life has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by decades of living in the vibrant communities of Miami Beach, Sunny Isles, and Hallandale. As we celebrate her remarkable journey and the countless lives she's touched, we delve into the story of a woman who has witnessed the transformation of a city and embraced the joys of family, community service, and a love for classical music. Miriam's connection to the sun-kissed shores of Miami Beach runs deep, with her roots firmly planted for over sixty years. She first discovered the allure of this coastal paradise in 1948 when she started vacationing there. Over the years, she witnessed the evolving landscape of Miami Beach as it transitioned into an internationally acclaimed destination. As Miami Beach changed, so did her life, and her resilience in adapting to these shifts is nothing short of inspiring. Education was a significant part of Miriam's family life. Both her sons, including Wayne and his brother, attended Miami Beach High School and later pursued their higher education at the University of Florida. Miriam's commitment to fostering a love for learning in her children has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on their lives. With a family that extended beyond her sons, Miriam had the joy of having two sons and three stepdaughters, who brought warmth and love into her life. Her family grew even more with nine grandchildren and a growing number of great-grandchildren, which is a testament to the legacy she has built. Throughout her life, Miriam worked diligently, dedicating her skills to various roles. She served as a bookkeeper for an independent insurance agency on Miami Beach for an impressive 15 years, showcasing her commitment and work ethic. Later, she transitioned to a bookkeeping position at a local air-conditioning company, where she continued to excel for another decade. Her work ethic and dedication to her profession serve as an inspiration to all. Miriam's talents extended beyond the realm of bookkeeping. She was a prolific knitter, crafting beautiful blankets, afghans, and dolls that carried her love and warmth. These handmade creations became cherished heirlooms for her family, a testament to her skill and care. Sadly, as her sight began to deteriorate, her knitting slowed, but the legacy of her craft lives on. A heart filled with compassion and a desire to give back to her community led Miriam to volunteer at numerous hospitals. Her selflessness in dedicating her time to support those in need reflects her kind and generous spirit. Miriam's love for Asian cuisine and her appreciation for classical music enriched her life in countless ways. She savored the flavors of Asian dishes, finding joy in every bite, and she reveled in the melodies of classical composers. One of the greatest gifts she ever received was a full series of CDs featuring the works of her beloved classical composers. This gift brought endless hours of pleasure and a connection to the timeless beauty of classical music. In the later years of her life, Miriam embraced the role of caregiver, tending to her parents who lived to impressive ages of 95 and 101, a reflection of her enduring love and dedication to family. As we celebrate Miriam Esther Schwartz's 100th birthday, we honor not only her longevity but also her rich tapestry of life experiences, her unwavering commitment to family and community, and her love for the arts. Her story reminds us that a life well-lived is one that embraces change, finds joy in the little things, and leaves a lasting impact on the hearts of those around us. Happy 100th birthday, Miriam Esther Schwartz—may your days continue to be filled with love, laughter, and the beautiful notes of classical music. < Previous News Next News >

Met Council Legislative Breakfast Draws 600 Leaders As Hochul Signs Buffer Zone Bill Protection Jewish Institutions Jewish Connection News Jun 18, 2026 More Than 600 Elected Officials, Government Leaders, Clergy And Community Leaders Gathered In Manhattan On Sunday Morning For Met Council’s Annual Legislative Breakfast, One Of The Largest Annual Gatherings Of Elected Officials And Jewish Community Leaders In New York. Held ahead of New York City’s Salute to Israel Parade, the breakfast brought together leaders from every level of government to recognize Met Council’s work serving 350,000 New Yorkers in need through its food pantry network, social services, senior programs, family violence services and anti-poverty initiatives. The program featured remarks from Governor Kathy Hochul, who joined Met Council to sign the "Keeping New Yorkers Safe" legislation, establishing buffer zones around houses of worship; U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles “Chuck” Schumer; New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli and New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, among more than three dozen elected officials who took to the stage in support of Met Council’s mission and in celebration of New York’s Jewish community. “When New Yorkers have nowhere else to turn, they turn to Met Council,” said Met Council CEO David G. Greenfield. “Across our food pantries, senior services, domestic violence programs and anti-poverty initiatives, we meet people at the hardest moments of their lives. The extraordinary turnout of elected officials and community leaders today reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker has access to the support and dignity they deserve.” This year’s honorees included New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, New York City Comptroller Mark Levine, Secretary to the Governor Karen Persichilli Keogh, New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald, New York State Assembly Health Committee Chair Amy Paulin, New York State Senator Nathalia Fernandez, New York City Council Deputy Leader Chris Banks, Majority Whip Kamillah Hanks, Deputy Speaker Dr. Nantasha Williams and Majority Leader Shaun Abreu. “Met Council embodies the values that make New York strong: caring for the vulnerable, supporting families in crisis and ensuring no one is left behind. Whether it is feeding the hungry, housing families or caring for Holocaust survivors, this organization has spent decades lifting up New Yorkers and strengthening communities across our state….I have had enough of seeing Jewish New Yorkers harassed and intimidated simply for who they are. It is not enough to condemn antisemitism. We have to take action to stop it,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “We are home to the second largest Jewish population outside of Israel and at a time when antisemitism is rising at alarming levels New York must continue to lead,” shared City Council Speaker Julie Menin. “Today we proudly celebrate Jewish culture, Jewish heritage and the Jewish state while standing united against hate in all its forms. Organizations like Met Council represent the very best of our city, providing critical food, social services and support to hundreds of thousands of vulnerable New Yorkers each year while strengthening communities across all five boroughs.” “I was raised to believe deeply in Am Yisrael Chai and that is how I am raising my children. My Jewish identity is not something I put on and take off. It is who I am and who I will always be. I understand the fear many in our community have felt since October 7 which is why I take this responsibility so personally. Organizations like Met Council reflect the values that make our community strong and my commitment is simple: every Jewish New Yorker should be able to gather, worship and celebrate their heritage proudly knowing the NYPD is doing everything possible to keep them safe,” added NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Over the past year, Met Council reached record levels of service across its programs. The organization served 350,000 New Yorkers statewide, distributed 1,880,457 pounds of food each month through its pantry network and processed 239,366 digital pantry orders through Market by Met Council. Met Council also helped New Yorkers access $20,700,000 in SNAP benefits through applications and recertifications and distributed $1,518,127 in cash assistance through its crisis intervention work. Met Council’s senior services division assisted 2,576 Holocaust survivors with home deliveries and essential services, while its family violence and prevention programs supported 1,067 individuals. Through its Career Access Program, Met Council trained more than 503 participants through tech workshops, helping New Yorkers build skills and access workforce opportunities. The program featured remarks from Governor Kathy Hochul, who joined Met Council to sign the "Keeping New Yorkers Safe" legislation, establishing buffer zones around houses of worship. “When New Yorkers have nowhere else to turn, they turn to Met Council,” said Met Council CEO David G. Greenfield. Previous Next