A Spine-Tingling October: Musical Thrills And Supernatural Chills All Month October 13, 2022 Share There is no need to wait for Halloween to experience spine-tingling excitement this October when the Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker hosts musicians Tauren Wells, Weird Al Yankovic, YES, Steve Vai and Amos Lee along with the jaw-dropping stage antics of Bill Blagg and an incredible evening with paranormal expert Josh Gates. "Weird Al" Yankovic presents his “The Unfortunate Return Of The Ridiculously Self-Indulgent, Ill-Advised Vanity Tour” with Special Guest Emo Philips on Wednesday, October 12th, 2022 and Thursday, October 13th, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. on both evenings. For the second time in his storied career, the world's foremost musical satirist and five-time Grammy Winner foregoes his usual high-octane, big-production show for an intimate evening of music, focusing on original non-parody songs from his 14 Album Catalog. The biggest selling comedy recording artist of all time, he saw his 2014 release Mandatory Fun become the first Comedy Album in history to debut at Number 1 on Billboard’s Top 200. Yankovic is one of only five artists along with Michael Jackson, Madonna, U2 and Kenny G. to have Top 40 Singles in each of the last four decades. Philips has performed more than 7,000 stand-up comedy shows across the globe including a two week theater run in London’s West End. Tickets for the show are $47.50 - $97.50 with $339 VIP Tickets that include a meet and greet with the artist and other exclusives. An Evening with YES: Close To The Edge “50th Anniversary Tour” comes to the Lillian S. Wells Hall in a concert presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, October 14th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. A pioneer of progressive rock, YES has achieved worldwide success through a prolific and enduring music career spanning 45 years and 20 Studio Albums. The band's current line-up consists of core members: Steve Howe on Guitars along with Keyboardist Geoff Downes, Singer Jon Davison and Bassist Billy Sherwood. With an ever growing fan base, YES continues to electrify audiences with its daunting virtuosity, cosmic lyrics, complex musical textures and powerful lead vocals. It’s an unforgettable evening of YES at its best, featuring its existential prog masterworks and instrumental pyrotechnics. Tickets are $59.50 - $129.50 with VIP Packages priced at $219 and $249 that offer various exclusives. Called "Unbelievable!" by USA Today and "Absolutely Incredible!" by Chicago Tribune, The Magic of Bill Blagg Live! is presented on Sunday, October 16th, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. Blagg's show combines his mind-blowing magical talents along with his trademark off-the-cuff personality that takes audiences on a magical journey as they witness objects float in mid-air and vanish in the blink of an eye in an interactive magic experience of jaw dropping illusions. Tickets are $29 - $39. Virtuoso Guitarist, visionary composer and consummate Producer Steve Vai brings his “Inviolate Tour” to The Parker on Wednesday, October 19th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. Sculpting musical sound with infinite creativity and technical mastery, Vai continues to use unbridled guitar virtuosity and soulful artistry to explore the spectrum of human emotion. At age 12, he started taking guitar lessons from Joe Satriani. At 18, he began his professional musical career transcribing for and then playing with the legendary Frank Zappa. More than three decades later, he has 15 Million Album sales and three Grammy Awards. Tickets are $40.50 - $72.50 with VIP Packages ranging from $207.50 - $1,582.50 offering varying exclusives. Josh Gates Live! delivers “An Evening of Ghosts, Monsters and Tales of Adventure” on Thursday, October 20th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. Gates is an explorer, author and intrepid investigator from Discovery Channel's smash-hit series Expedition Unknown and Syfy's Destination Truth. He will share lore and legends from his most spine-tingling expeditions from cases involving puzzling paranormal encounters to reports of cryptozoological creatures. Gates transports his audience into the world of the unexplained and keeps them on the edge of their seats. Tickets are $37 - $75 with a $100 VIP Package that includes a meet and greet with the artist. Amos Lee with Special Guest Slim Dan performs Saturday, October 22nd, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. With one foot in the real world and the other in a charmed dimension of his own making, Lee creates the rare kind of music that's emotionally raw yet touched with a certain magical quality. On his eighth album, Dreamland, the Philadelphia-born Singer/Songwriter intimately documents his real-world struggles with alienation, anxiety, loneliness, despair, an outpouring born from deliberate and often painful self-examination. Tickets are $54.50-$79.50. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Parker. You can purchase tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com and at: www.Ticketmaster.com ; By phone at: (954) 462-0222. In person at The Parker box office and the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. About The Parker The Parker is Fort Lauderdale’s iconic, heritage theater presenting concerts, comedy, dance, family fare and more. Beautifully renovated in 2021, The Parker offers audiences enhanced entertainment and hospitality experiences. The Neo-classical Lillian S. Wells Hall features outstanding acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, wide rows and continental seating. The grand S. Donald Sussman Lobby, the intimate Haller Club and the Private Member’s Lounge, The Place To Be, provide ample opportunities for audiences to enjoy culture, cocktails and conversation with every visit to the theater. The Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 for more information, visit: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com . < Previous News Next News >

Free Tree Giveaway: Two Trees Per Household From The Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency December 28, 2023 Share The Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (HBCRA) hosts its second installation of free tree giveaways to Hallandale Beach residents through its partnership with Community Greening on Monday, January 15, 2024, at the 36th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Day Celebration and parade presented by the City of Hallandale Beach and Hallandale Beach Community Civic Association. The HBCRA has set an ambitious goal to increase the City's tree canopy coverage over the next few years to combat having one of the lowest canopy coverages in Broward County. The upcoming tree giveaways will allow Hallandale Beach residents to receive a limit of two trees per household (1 fruit tree maximum), on a first-come, first-served basis. The species options available are Native Trees: Paradise tree, Soldier wood and Fruit Trees: Canistel, Miracle fruit, Mulberry, Nancy. Please note species are based on availability and are subject to change. Proof of Hallandale Beach residency is required. "By planting more trees, including bioswales, we aim to reduce the heat island effect and mitigate flooding issues, aligning with our comprehensive vision for a sustainable and resilient future," said Executive Director Dr. Jeremy Earle, Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency and City Manager of Hallandale Beach. While the tree giveaway takes place at OB Johnson Park located at 1000 Northwest 8th Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009 from noon to 3:00 pm, the parade will begin at 10:00 am at BF James Park, located at 777 Northwest 1st Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. The HBCRA recognizes trees' vital role in improving the community's and the environment's overall well-being. According to a report done by Community Greening, trees can provide a wide range of benefits to a community, such as cooler temperatures, cleaner air, reductions in energy usage, increased property value, and much more. The HBCRA continually strives to make Hallandale Beach a city that values and nurtures its natural surroundings, fostering a sustainable and equitable future for all. Through the tree giveaways and partnership with Community Greening, the HBCRA is taking a significant step towards achieving its goal by encouraging community engagement and creating environmentally friendly spaces. The HBCRA invites everyone to join in these tree giveaways and play a role in creating a greener, more beautiful Hallandale Beach. About the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency The Hallandale Beach CRA aims to promote economic development and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Their unwavering commitment to eliminating and preventing blighted conditions is achieved through facilitating community partnerships, fostering business growth, creating job opportunities, and undertaking neighborhood rehabilitation projects. With a vision to build a thriving and dynamic city, the Hallandale Beach CRA continually strives to make Hallandale Beach a prime destination for both business and leisure. For more information about the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency and its initiatives, please visit: www.cohbcra.org < Previous News Next News >

Hurricane Season June 3, 2021 Share Begins This Week June 1st, marks the start of the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season and now, is the time to get ready. Reduce your stress during an emergency by having your family’s plan in place, in advance. A hurricane can cause major disruptions to your family, the power grid and the supply chain. The best way to minimize these and many other problems, is to be prepared. Sit down with your family and determine essentials, such as, how much water your family needs, where you will go if you need to evacuate and how you will stay in contact with loved ones. You will also need to be able to be self-sufficient for at least 7 days after a storm hits our area. To help you prepare, here are some tips from the Florida Department of Health: Your emergency plan should include: a) All members of your household, b) Special medical conditions, c) When and where to evacuate, d) Special transportation needs, e) Emergency meeting place, f) An out-of-town contact who everyone can call to stay in touch, and g) Pet plan. Gather emergency supplies: a) A gallon of water per person for 7 days, b) Non-perishable foods such as canned meat, fish, veggies, fruits and nuts, c) Can opener, disposable plates and utensils and d) Matches and cooking gel. Stock up on medical needs: a) 30 day supply of prescription medications from your doctor, b) Over the counter pain reliever, antacids, anti-diarrhea medicine and children’s medicine, c) List of all medications and essential medical devices, d) Physician contact number and e) Blood types and allergies for all household members.Assemble a first-aid kit with sterile bandages, cleansing agent, safety pins, gauze pads, scissors, sewing needle, moist towelettes and tape. Collect essential data in a waterproof container: a) Contact information for property insurer, official emergency agencies, family and friends, b) Credit card and bank information, c) Portable computer storage device with electronic copies of mortgage, home deed, car title, etc. d) Instructions for shutting off utilities and e) Pet health records. List your major home belongings and back it up with photos! For more information, the City of Hollywood’s 2021 Hurricane Preparedness Guide, shelter information and more, please visit the City’s website at: www.HollywoodFL.org/Hurricane. < Previous News Next News >

Sunny Isles Beach Has New Temporary Sign Regulations By Mauricio Betancur, Sun Isles Beach City Clerk - www.sibfl.gov October 18, 2024 Share At its regular meeting in August, the City Commission of Sunny Isles Beach adopted an ordinance revising the regulations for all types of temporary signs, including on-premises and off-premises signs. These temporary signs are subject to specific rules. It is essential for property owners to understand that they are ultimately responsible for ensuring that any signs on their property adhere to these regulations. Below is a breakdown of the new rules governing off-premises temporary signs, which include, but are not limited to, political campaign signs. Property Owner Responsibility As a property owner, it is your responsibility to ensure compliance with these new regulations. Whether for personal, business, or political purposes, any off-premises temporary sign placed on your property must follow these rules. Failure to comply may result in the issuance of a civil violation. By understanding and following these guidelines, you help maintain the safety, aesthetics, and order of our community. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. By following these new sign regulations, you ensure that your property remains in compliance while supporting community standards for temporary signage. Key Regulations for Off-Premises Temporary Signs An off-premises sign advertises a business, product, service, or event that is not located on the same property as the sign. This is different from an on-premises sign, which advertises something that is directly related to the property, such as real estate, construction, or grand opening signs. Below are key regulations for off-premises signs: • No Permit Required. Property owners are not required to obtain a permit for off-premises temporary signs. • Number of Signs. Each property is allowed a maximum of 3 off-premises temporary signs at any given time. • Placement Restrictions. Off-premises temporary signs cannot be placed on public rights-of-way or on city-owned property. This includes utility poles, traffic signs, bus shelters, and similar City Infrastructure. If any signs are placed in violation of this rule, the city reserves the right to remove them without prior notice, which may also result in the issuance of a civil violation. • Non-Illumination Requirement. Temporary signs must remain static and cannot be illuminated in any way. This includes prohibitions on lighting that flashes, moves, rotates, blinks, or changes in intensity or color. • Consent from Property Owners. Signs cannot be placed on any property without the explicit consent of the property owner. Property owners are responsible for removing signs that are placed without their permission. • Time Limit for Display. Temporary signs can be displayed for a maximum of 120 consecutive days, once per calendar year, per sign. • Prohibited Sign Locations. Temporary signs cannot be affixed to fences, trees, balcony railings, rooftops, windows, or doors. Regulations by Zoning District The rules for off-premises temporary signs vary slightly depending on the zoning district: R-1, RMF-1, RTH Zoning Districts • Maximum number of signs per property: 3 • Maximum height: 3 feet from the ground to the top of the sign • Maximum sign area: 3.5 square feet, per sign RMF-2, MUR, TCD, B-1, BO Zoning Districts • Maximum number of signs per property: 3 • Maximum height: 6 feet from the ground to the top of the sign Maximum sign area: 8 square feet per sign and signs must be set back at least 6 feet from all property lines. To view the City Zoning Map, visit: https://www.sibfl.gov/files/assets/city/v/1/city-hall/images/maps/zoning-map.jpg Political Signs as Off-Premises Temporary Signs With the 2024 election cycle well underway, it's important to note that political signs are treated as off-premises temporary signs under these regulations. Therefore, they are subject to the same restrictions and guidelines outlined above. Candidates and their supporters should work with property owners to ensure that campaign signs comply with these rules, particularly regarding placement and the time limits for display. Any questions may be directed to the City Manager’s Office or the City Clerk’s Office at: (305) 792-1703. Or via email: cityclerk@sibfl.net . < Previous News Next News >

Protect Yourself From Medical Identity Theft September 19, 2024 Share In an increasingly digital age where personal information is vulnerable to exploitation, Medical Identity Theft stands out as a particularly insidious crime. Unlike Financial Identity Theft, where credit card numbers or bank accounts are compromised, Medical Identity Theft involves the unauthorized use of an individual's personal information to obtain medical services, prescriptions, or other healthcare benefits. This form of Identity Theft not only threatens personal finances but also endangers Health and Well-Being. Understanding Medical Identity Theft Medical Identity Theft occurs when someone steals or uses another person's personal information, such as their Medicare or Social Security Number, without permission to fraudulently obtain medical services or products. The consequences can be severe, ranging from financial losses due to fraudulent medical bills to incorrect medical information contaminating the victim's health records. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) defines Medical Identity Theft as "when someone steals your Personal Information (like your name, Social Security Number, or Medicare Number) to get medical care, or uses your information to submit fraudulent claims for medical services." This definition underscores the importance of safeguarding personal information associated with healthcare services. Medical Identity Theft can occur through various means, including: Data Breaches: Hackers targeting Healthcare Providers, Insurers, or Government Agencies to access Sensitive Patient Information. Stolen Documents: Physical Theft of Medicare Cards, Insurance Forms, or other documents containing Personal Details. Fraudulent Practices: Unscrupulous individuals posing as healthcare providers or insurers to obtain personal information. Once obtained, this information can be used to file false claims with Insurers, obtain Prescription Drugs, or receive medical treatment—all at the expense of the victim's insurance coverage and potentially their health. Protecting Yourself from Medical Identity Theft Given the serious implications of Medical Identity Theft, it is crucial to take proactive steps to safeguard personal information. Here are some essential tips: Protect Personal Information: Medicare and Social Security Numbers: Treat these numbers like you would a credit card number. Only provide them to healthcare providers you trust or legitimate insurers. Medicare Card: Guard your Medicare card carefully. Avoid carrying it unnecessarily and ensure it is stored securely. Understand How Your Information is Used: Familiarize yourself with how Medicare and other healthcare providers use and protect your personal information. Be cautious of unfamiliar requests for personal data. Monitor Healthcare Statements: Regularly review statements and Explanation of Benefits (EOB) Forms from Healthcare Providers and Insurers. Report any discrepancies or unfamiliar charges promptly. Be Aware of Medicare Policies: Medicare will never call you to sell you anything or visit your home for unsolicited purposes. Be wary of unexpected calls requesting personal information. Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect medical identity theft or fraud, report it immediately to the appropriate authorities. Visit: https://www.identitytheft.gov/ or contact Medicare directly for assistance. What to Avoid To reduce the risk of Medical Identity Theft, avoid the following practices: Sharing Personal Information: Do not disclose your Medicare or Social Security Numbers unless necessary and to trusted entities. Accepting Unsolicited Offers: Refrain from accepting money or gifts in exchange for medical care or providing Personal Information to unknown parties. Unauthorized Access: Only allow Authorized Healthcare Providers to access your Medical Records or recommend services. In conclusion, protecting oneself from Medical Identity Theft requires vigilance and awareness. By safeguarding personal information, understanding how it is used, and promptly reporting suspicious activities, individuals can mitigate the risks associated with this increasingly prevalent form of Identity Theft. As technology evolves, so too must our efforts to protect our Personal Data from exploitation and misuse. By adhering to these guidelines and staying informed, individuals can minimize the likelihood of falling victim to Medical Identity Theft and ensure their healthcare remains secure and private. < Previous News Next News >

Brian Evans Live In Concert April 7, 2023 Share Produced by Narada Michael Walden, Legendary Producer of Whitney Houston, George Michael, Elton John among others, big band crooner Brian Evans performs his first concert in more than ten years as he prepares a new album. Backed by Grammy Award Winning Musical Director Gary Anderson (known for his work with Frank Sinatra), Brian has headlined thousands of shows in Las Vegas and performed as the opening act for stars from Joan Rivers to Erasure and dozens of others. His music is heard on shows like BoJack Horseman, on Netflix and a plethora of others. Grammy Magazine named Evans as "One of the most relevant crooners in the style of Sinatra of this generation." He has also been seen on Full House and At Fenway with William Shatner. He has also authored several novels headed for Film/TV adaptation including Horrorscope. See him in this intimate venue. With millions of views on YouTube and over 2 billion TikTok streams of his version of "New York, New York." See him in Aventura with his big band on Saturday, May 20th, 2023! How It Started Brian Evans was born in Haverhill, Massachusetts. At age 16, his mother and he drove to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. Several months later, Evans landed his first national television commercial for a Twix commercial, followed by a role in the Charles Bronson film, “Death Wish IV.” After then being cast for the pilot of “Beverly Hills, 90210” and then landed the role as “Keanu,” on the hit television show, “Full House,” followed by a role in the New Line Cinema Film, “Book of Love.” It was Evans' passion for music, rather than acting, that had him begin a “crooning” career in the same genre as Sinatra. After meeting Frank Sinatra at a charity event, Evans said, “Everyone thinks I’m crazy for pursuing this kind of music,” to which Sinatra replied, “Kid, if everyone thinks you’re crazy, you’re on the right track.” Evans took those words to heart and began a career in the music business, immediately booked to open for Frankie Valli, Dionne Warwick, and Lou Rawls. Evans would then continue to open for the likes of Jay Leno, Joan Rivers, Social Distortion, Rob Schneider, David Spade, Louie Anderson, Bob Saget, Citizen Cope, Roseanne Barr, Jeff Bridges, Nick Swardson, William Shatner and numerous other stars. Tickets Brian will perform with his big band on Saturday, May 20th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. at The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, tickets start at $45. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org or by phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. Parking Free parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. < Previous News Next News >

Flooding In Hallandale Beach - The City Has Been Doing Major Water And Wastewater Projects By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper Nov 5, 2025 Over the past articles, I have written about flooding and a resiliency study under way that will update all of our flood maps to the new reality of Sea Level Rise and climate change. While the study is in the final phase we have not just been sitting back doing nothing. We have always had stormwater plans. Last week, I had many meetings with residents who came to meet with me about flooding. The overarching theme was, “what are you doing?” and “I want a pump at my house.” I shared, I wish there were a magic fix and I could make the entire city flood proof. I also shared that, this is the issue I lose sleep over. We need the plan to create a work plan and then we have to fund the work plan. More importantly, we need to be strategic and get it right. We still continue to do what we can while we are in the process. Below is one of those measures while we are waiting on completion of the study. I requested that the city enact a local ordinance to implement the state statute that allows police to ticket drivers who create a wake. We have put up no wake signs and deployed police and barricades in low lying areas, but ignorant drivers still barrel through flooded streets and cause damage. Chief Michel spoke and actually thanked me. This issue is extremely frustrating not just to our residents but our officers. They will be placing the ordinance on the agenda and I requested they utilize the highest fine possible allowed by the statue. Water and flooding do not have borders. Hollywood to our north has been working on barrier island flooding for years. They have had issues all along A1A, not simply around the Lakes area. They have put out temporary pumps in some areas like Hallandale where there is no quick fix. In addition, there is nowhere to pump water. They are now beginning the process to deep well inject. The large-scale pumps and seawall project is jointly planned and funded between the FDOT, Broward County, city and private property owners. Broward County, State and Army Corps have authority over the parks along the intracoastal and without getting into the details on all the projects they passed, I will focus on the lakes. In 2019, they passed a General Obligation Bond to cover multiple projects. In 2023, the project was still conceptual but moving forward with design and permitting. The completion date then was 2025 but we know that is not the case. Their bond did not cover the entire project and they went to the state who actually provided two grants for planning. The lake seawall sites alone funding was $14 Million for only seven sites and with the state awarding $18 Million in funding they could do all the public sites. The sites with private properties with docks are required to be done through the owners. Ironically, this is where there is some of the worst flooding. I am not covering the other part of A1A, but I understand the cost for stormwater management improvements citywide are well over a billion dollars. So how does the city pay for stormwater since improvements are not all paid for by grants from other agencies? In simple terms, fees. Hollywood, just like our City, has a Stormwater Fee. Their rate went from 10.62 per equivalent unity to $22.00 dollars this year. This fee is the base for single families. Other properties classes their fee is calculated based on property square footage applied to the equivalent rate. Hallandale has been doing major water and wastewater projects. These have been time based on the project plans. Obviously, we are doing some projects, but we cannot do them all at the same time. We do not need all the money upfront, so this afforded us the ability to phase in the rates. Increases are being phased up to 2028. The percentage increase overall will be 28.75 % for water, 21.50% for wastewater and 30% for stormwater. I always like to say percentages always matter but sound extremely high in relation to the actual dollar. For example, the dollar changes for Water and Sewer this year on the base rates went from 38.91 to 42.02 and 25.33 to 26.72, respectively. For stormwater we also have increased the rate by 10% annually. This year it went from $9.81 Dollars to $10.79 Dollars. This fee accounts for our operation and maintenance costs as well as other improvements. One project that is listed on the current project is the Northeast Drainage between 12th and 10th. We put $10 Million into the plan but know that the project will cost more once we have the final concept and design. We agreed to ask for the State Grant that made it to the Governor’s desk only to be cut. It does not mean we will not do it, it just means it is not fully funded. This is why we need a new study and plan. The new plan like Hollywood’s will need to include not just drainage pumps but seawalls and other Infrastructure improvements to address the new normal created by Sea Level Rise and Climate Change. The Infrastructure Plan we are working on is already $300 Million. I have started to make sure we as a commission realistically discuss and prepare our residents for this critical issue. It will take time to create a strategic plan; cost estimates that are just not projected but include the economic reality of increases of goods and service over time and multiple tiered approach to funding. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns and ideas to make our city a better place on my Phone/Text: (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

A Busy July at MOCA: The Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami Has Something For Everyone Thu Jun 29 2023 16:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Harold Solomon Will Navigate You Through The Quandaries of Medicare PROFILES May 2021 May 15, 2021 Share Harold Solomon, principal of The Solomon Insurance Group in Fort Lauderdale, is the founder of The Medicare Enrollment Center, a specialty service that guides seniors through the confusion of making healthcare decisions with Medicare. Harold Solomon says, “When it comes to making decisions about health insurance when you are 65 or older, don’t worry. We are here to help.” Harold Solomon, principal of The Solomon Insurance Group in Fort Lauderdale, is the founder of The Medicare Enrollment Center, a specialty service that guides seniors through the confusion of making healthcare decisions with Medicare. Having always been in service industries, Solomon says he began to hear horror stories about decisions involved with making Medicare choices and the limited, sometimes discourteous, assistance from Medicare 800 numbers. That’s when he decided this was a population he would like to help. “When the average person is about to turn 65, he or she begins to research how to enroll in the Medicare program,“ says Solomon. “That’s where the confusion begins as the person is confronted with a myriad of plans and options that require reviewing, comparing and deciding which plan is the best for them.” So, they call a Medicare 800 number. They reach a voice who does not know anything about them, nor their current medical situation or future needs. Likewise, the caller does not know who that person is and probably would have difficulty finding that same individual again. Aside from that, there is no likely follow-up to the caller from the insurance side, even after enrollment. Thinking as to how Harold could help others, he developed a process to accomplish his mission: 1) LISTEN -The first important thing is to listen. Harold asks questions to determine the kind of Medicare health coverage, will meet the client needs. 2) EXPLAIN – Carefully explain all of the best options for each individual. 3) ENROLL - Once decided on the best of the options, Harold explains the enrollment process and enrolls his client, simplifying this burdensome process. Once you become a client, Harold Solomon and his team will stay with you. He will always be available for your questions and will periodically check in with you. He will keep you abreast of any modifications, new benefits or planned policy or premium changes and will work in your best interest at all times. In other words, he and his team will always act proactively on your behalf. Harold Solomon is well-qualified to do this. He is a licensed Medicare specialist. That means he has taken a series of programs and examinations that each require their own certification until the agent can proceed to the next step. It begins with exams for state licensure to sell health insurance. The next step is to pass two state-mandated courses (Preventing Medicare Fraud and General Compliance with Fraud,Waste & Abuse), in order to be certified by AHIP (American Health Insurance Plans). Then the agent must get certified in Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance. Following that, the agent must contract with a Medicare wholesaler, and follow further by contracting with multiple other Medicare companies. And, it does not stop there, since certifications must be renewed every year with updated courses. Harold Solomon is licensed in 36 states throughout the country and because Medicare often differs from state to state, sometimes even from county to county, The Solomon Insurance Group has a host of carefully chosen agents in those states to deliver the same personalized service. Mr. Solomon is available to meet with social, condo or business groups to explain the latest options, including the various Medicare supplemental programs that can provide 100% healthcare coverage for the rest of a client’s life. The team at the Solomon Insurance Group will listen to you and provide a health insurance evaluation at no cost. They will review all coverage options available in your area, across all 50 states. A variety of plan options exist for every health care need and it takes someone with total understanding of them to recommend what will be best for you. “My goal is to make Medicare simple and easy to understand,” says Solomon, “and to help our clients make the best choice for their health coverage.” Harold says the the most frequently asked questions are: • Should I get Medicare supplemental • 100% coverage or an Advantage Plan? • How do I know what coverage is best for me? • Does Medicare cover Long Term Care? • Does Medicare cover dental, vision and hearing? • What if I have a family history of cancer, • heart attack or stroke? • Does Medicare cover final life expenses? • Can I get home care as I get older? • Will it cover extensive cancer treatments? • What if I get disabled? What does Medicare cover? • Who can I trust to guide me as I begin to • lose my decision capabilities? Harold Solomon acts in a fiduciary capacity. That means he is bound ethically to act in your best interests. You will know you have the best coverage, at the best price. We want our Medicare clients to enjoy life, not worry about their Medicare health coverage. In addition to Medicare supplemental insurance and Medicare Advantage plans, the Solomon Insurance Group can offer further protection plans that include Hospital indemnity Insurance, Long-term Care Insurance, Heart Attack & Stroke Coverage, Dental, Vision & Hearing Benefit Plans, Cancer Lump Sum Benefits, and Final expense coverage. The Solomon Insurance Group is highly recommended by All Star Public Adjusters. The Solomon Insurance Group 3063 Red Mangrove Lane Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33312 888-886-8360 http:/thesolomoninsurancegroup.com < Previous News Next News >

It's Budget Time: What's The Process & What To Expect Thu Aug 24 2023 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

We Must Remain Vigilant Hallandale Beach By Hallandale Beach, Mayor Joy Cooper October 10, 2024 Share Once again, we are under an emergency declaration this past weekend into today. I continued to respond to many residents and kept them up to date over the course of this storm. We were blessed once again not to have been in the eye of the storm, but we still feel Milton’s effects. Helene and Milton both left massive devastation. It continues to worry me that so many people are simply not heeding our warnings and messages to be prepared. Many newer residents have shared with me that they purchased their homes not knowing it was in a Flood Zone. Some knew but did not research the specific areas that are considered repetitive loss. The sellers and or realtors did not explain the history. In some instances, they bought homes that were repaired without Permits. In these cases, it is even harder dealing with rebuilding without having current plans to rebuild. This past year every property was put in the Flood Zone. This means they must have Flood Insurance. Even the Three Islands neighborhood is now in a Flood Zone even though they have never flooded. Commissioner Lazarow inquired about these changes at a recent meeting. She requested we see if Three Islands can be removed. We support the request. It will be interesting if it can be changed but I am thinking due to the Sea Level Rise and the Storm Surge possibilities it may not be removed. The point is we are a Flood Zone. There are only four miles between our western border of I-95 and the ocean. Unless, if you consider the Intracoastal Waterway. Many residents in the City believed that since we put in pumps on 14th and on the Shaffer Canal this will guarantee they will not Flood. Everyone after June realized we are in a new normal. I tell everyone we cannot engineer our City out of every Flood. I cannot stress enough that we will Flood depending on the amount and duration of rain events. This means every homeowner and condominium needs to properly prepare in the event of natural disasters including hurricanes and extreme rain events. June was the beginning of Hurricane Season, and we always promote being prepared. The state provides a Sales Tax Holiday for everyone so they can get a break on purchasing supplies, equipment and other items that will help residents prepare themselves and their homes in the event of a storm. I received multiple text messages and calls about sandbags. While I felt terrible knowing they were in fear of Flooding I thought it was a bit late to be securing a home. Our City has not distributed sandbags for years. I know many cities do supply sand, some supply bags and sand. This process is labor intensive if you want to do it right. It takes Staff, Volunteers, and Police to perform the distribution properly. We gave out two to four bags to residents with ID. The question becomes, does four bags even help secure your home? It may help but it is not the best form of protection and it pulls our Staff away from their duties preparing the City for the storms. Bags are often one and done. Many would dump the sand rather than saving it for the next storm expecting we do another distribution. It bothered me when we stopped this program, so I decided to do research on other applications to secure properties. Since climate change and extreme weather events are taking place everywhere many products have been developed to dry proof homes. One simple example is water barriers that are reusable and much easier to utilize. There are water dams for doors and garages. There are large waterproof sacks to store everything from clothes to entire rooms of furniture. Climate Change and Sea-Level Rise has exacerbated the intensity of the storms, and we will not always have days to prepare. Recently, we held Hurricane Preparedness Courses. One was geared for businesses and the other for residents. The instructor, Ms. Lynville from Optimum, presented an excellent curriculum. Many residents continue to ask about what the City is doing to address Flooding. We are doing our part and have plans for more Infrastructure. We have a robust preparedness plan and implement improvements. We can and will continue to do our part, but we cannot emphasize enough, property owners also play an integral part in prevention, preparation and recovery. I have requested the next session be held to share what products, programs and services are available through FEMA to help our owners. I was hoping to announce a date but between Helene and Milton it was pushed off. I am in communication with Optimum and believe we can host a meeting at the end of this month. I will have a firmer date after Wednesday. I do hope everyone weathered the storm. The mental scars are the ones that may take more time to be healed. I was impressed watching one of the news channels listening to one of the victims of Helene. She said it was not their first hurricane but was the worst so far. She said we are staying put and rebuilding. That is the price we pay to live in Florida. The goal must be for communities to build back stronger and smarter. After Andrew, the South Florida Building Codes were created. They are now statewide. Currently, homes are being built eighteen inches higher. Seawalls are being built higher. We need to evaluate planning with a goal towards stronger drainage requirements and retrofitting private properties as we face the new normal. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place by 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 News Next News >

The Deadly Cost of Police Welfare Checks: Particularly If That Person is Disabled, Mentally Ill, Elderly, Autistic, Hearing Impaired, or Suffering From Dementia By John & Nisha Whitehead October 27, 2022 Share According to an investigation by The Washington Post, cops sent out on welfare checks ended up shooting or killing the very people they were supposed to assist in at least 178 cases over the course of three years Think twice before you call the cops to carry out a welfare check on a loved one. Especially if you value that person’s life. Particularly if that person is disabled, mentally ill, elderly, autistic, hearing impaired, suffering from dementia, or might have a condition that hinders their ability to understand, communicate or immediately comply with an order. According to an investigation by The Washington Post, cops sent out on welfare checks ended up shooting or killing the very people they were supposed to assist in at least 178 cases over the course of three years. Atatiana Jefferson was neither disabled, mentally ill, elderly, autistic, hearing impaired, suffering from dementia. The 28-year-old Fort Worth resident was merely awake at 2:30 am, playing video games with her 8-year-old nephew in a house with its lights on and the front door open. A neighbor, noticing the lights and open door, asked police to do a welfare check on the household. Instead of announcing themselves at the front door, police crept quietly around the house. Hearing noises outside, Jefferson approached her bedroom window to investigate. Seeing Jefferson through the window, police yelled, “Put your hands up! Show me your hands!” Within seconds of issuing that order and without identifying themselves, police fired a single shot. Jefferson died on the scene. Atatiana Jefferson’s death is yet one more grim statistic to add to that growing list of Americans—unarmed, impaired or experiencing a mental health crisis—who have been killed by police trained in the worst-case scenario and thus ready to shoot first and ask questions later. The officer who fired the shot claimed he did so because he perceived “a threat.” Be warned: to the armed agents of the America police state, we are all potential threats. At a time when growing numbers of unarmed people have been shot and killed for just standing a certain way, or moving a certain way, or holding something—anything—that police could misinterpret to be a gun, or igniting some trigger-centric fear in a police officer’s mind that has nothing to do with an actual threat to their safety, even the most benign encounters with police can have fatal consequences. For those undergoing a mental health crisis or with special needs whose disabilities may not be immediately apparent, the dangers posed by these so-called wellness checks are even greater. For example, Gay Plack, a 57-year-old Virginia woman with bipolar disorder, was killed after two police officers—sent to do a welfare check on her—entered her home uninvited, wandered through the house shouting her name, kicked open her locked bedroom door, discovered the terrified woman hiding in a dark bathroom and wielding a small axe, and four seconds later, shot her in the stomach. Four seconds. That’s all the time it took for the two police officers assigned to check on Plack to decide to use lethal force against her (both cops opened fire on the woman), rather than using non-lethal options (one cop had a Taser, which he made no attempt to use) or attempting to de-escalate the situation. The police chief defended his officers’ actions, claiming they had “no other option” but to shoot the 5 foot 4 inch woman with carpal tunnel syndrome. This is what happens when you indoctrinate the police into believing that their lives and their safety are paramount to anyone else’s: suddenly, everyone and everything else is a threat that must be neutralized or eliminated. In light of the government’s ongoing efforts to predict who might pose a threat to public safety based on mental health sensor data, encounters with the police could get even more deadly for those with a mental illness or disability. As Steve Silberman writes for The New York Times “Anyone who cares for someone with a developmental disability, as well as for disabled people themselves [lives] every day in fear that their behavior will be misconstrued as suspicious, intoxicated or hostile by law enforcement.” Indeed, disabled individuals make up a third to half of all people killed by law enforcement officers. People of color are three times more likely to be killed by police than their white counterparts. If you’re black and disabled, you’re even more vulnerable. Over the course of six months, police shot and killed someone who was in mental crisis every 36 hours. Among 124 police killings in which mental illness appeared to be a factor, The Washington Post noted some important distinctions: “This group was more likely to wield a weapon less lethal than a firearm. Six had toy guns; 3 in 10 carried a blade, such as a knife or a machete — weapons that rarely prove deadly to police officers. According to data maintained by the FBI and other organizations, only three officers have been killed with an edged weapon in the past decade. Nearly a dozen of the mentally distraught people killed were military veterans, many of them suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of their service, according to police or family members… And in 45 cases, police were called to help someone get medical treatment, or after the person had tried and failed to get treatment on his own.” The U.S. Supreme Court, as might be expected, has thus far continued to immunize police against charges of wrongdoing when it comes to use of force against those with a mental illness. Where does this leave us? For starters, we need better police training across the board, but especially when it comes to de-escalation tactics and crisis intervention. A study by the National Institute of Mental Health found that Crisis Intervention Team-trained officers made fewer arrests, used less force, and connected more people with mental-health services than their non-trained peers. Second, police need to learn how to slow confrontations down, instead of ramping up the tension (and the noise). Third, with all the questionable funds flowing to police departments these days, why not use some of those funds to establish what one disability-rights activist describes as “a 911-type number dedicated to handling mental-health emergencies, with community crisis-response teams at the ready rather than police officers.” In the end, while we need to make encounters with police officers safer for people with suffering from mental illness or with disabilities, what we really need—as I point out in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries—is to make encounters with police safer for all individuals all across the board. 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 >