A Day of Tears By Tracy Renee Lee September 23, 2021 Share In September of 2001, We Vowed as Americans To Never Forget This past weekend was the 20th anniversary of September 11th; the worst enemy attack ever on America’s mainland by terrorists. Surprisingly, there are those who observed the day by going about their lives as usual. For me that was not possible. I remember the moment the attacks took place. I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing. I remember having to sit down because the devastation of the attacks drew strength from my body. To this day, 9/11 pulls from me the joy that I experience on other days. I am sobered by the loss of life, liberty, and justice that not only Americans endure, but the world at large. 9/11 was the beginning of underlying sadness and heartbreak for me as I realized that America, and her way of life, were forever changed. One would think that such an horrific act against us would leave an indelible impression upon our hearts. Sadly, as I look around me, I see that for some, it has not. Many children and young adults do not even know what 9/11 is, and others simply do not care. It appears to me that our government does not even remember what took place on that dreadful day. Even worse, they have opened the gates for more terror to cross our borders and harm our citizens. Lately, as I watch the actions of our government my heart hemorrhages. By far, the worst things I have ever seen to date are the 9/11 attacks and the recent American abandonment of the Afghani people. To witness a sea of people run after jet liners, hanging on to them for coveted life and safety, only to be blown off their wings and plummet to death, is heart wrenching. Their falls bring to mind those falling from the twin towers. And, to see Afghani mother’s handing over their wee babies to American soldiers goes beyond comprehension. In September of 2001, we vowed as Americans never to forget the crimes inflicted against us on that mournful day. In August of 2021, our government and a great number of our citizens, did just that. They forgot about it all. To stand by and allow the actions that have transpired to go without consequences is to support them. In doing so, we are just as guilty and barbaric as those who try to tell us to look the other way or to focus on something different. The consequences of America’s abandonment will have a far and long reaching effect. America’s safety and that of the people of the world has been colossally compromised. And, who is to blame? Who is responsible? Responsibility is not solely that of our government; it is ours too. We are the fools who elected such imbeciles, we are the fools that stand by and allow them to do as they will without consequences. I fear, however, that the consequences will soon be ours. Our troops have lost life and limb to protect and restore our safety and our liberty. Do the lives of those lost on 9-11-2001, and those of our beloved troops over the past 20 years, count for naught? Why has our government let liberty, safety, and decency slip away again? Why do they dismiss the anguish of the survivors and impose policies that only encourage more attacks, more loss and more suffering? Have Americans become so disconnected that they fail to see where much is given, much is expected? Do we not see that our blessings obligate us with responsibilities, not only to ourselves, but to the world at large? It is a truth that what a person will do to one, he will do to another. Do not bury your head in the sand. If our government will abandon our obligations of protection and safe transition to a nation of people, they will do the same to us. It is merely a matter of time and circumstance. There were times in our nation’s history where certain groups (races and ethnicities) were considered less deserving than others. Many people have suffered oppressions due to period acceptances of hierarchy and classifications. Although our ancestors have battled against such atrocities and stigmas, do not assume that they might not return and divide us again. If we are not vigilant in our course to protect our constitutional declaration that all men are created equal, we may see that glorious gift fade. In its wake, battles, death, terror, and oppression shall most certainly take hold. These are the spoils of evil consequences; of evil men. 9-11 is a difficult day for me. It is a day filled with heartache for our nation and sympathy for the losses and sorrows of the survivors. If Americans do not stand up to their responsibilities, we will see the fall of our nation. If we see the fall of our nation, not only America, but the entire world will experience dark oppression and crushing atrocities. 9/11 is a day of tears for the world. Let us pray and commit ourselves to the promise that we shall not fail. Let not the lives of our beloved soldiers, first responders, and innocent civilians be in vain. Terror is evil and governments who support it openly, or covertly, are evil too. Let us right our wrongs and seek to protect the weak, squelch the oppressors, install liberty, and share prosperity for all. That’s the American experience. It is our American dream, our duty and it used to be our honor. Please join me in my quest to restore America’s honor. Start today by becoming an informed citizenry by educating yourself to the truth. Stop listening to lies spewed across social media, radio, the internet, pod-casts, and television. Get out your history books, study civics and learn the truth. When faced with the realities of nuclear physics, Albert Einstein wrote a letter declaring the responsibility of scientists in protecting the world from destruction, “We scientists recognize our inescapable responsibility to carry to our fellow citizens an understanding of the simple facts of atomic energy and its implications for society. In this lies our only security and our only hope. We believe that an informed citizenry will act for life and not for death.” (The Emergency Committee of Atomic Scientists in Post-War America, Oregon State Library) As Einstein plainly recognizes, society is susceptible to atrocities due to ignorance, misinformation, and lies. His worries are the scientific consequences associated with unchecked control and use of atomic energy. He implies that the enormity of its power can be good or terrible dependent upon its application; yet control is possible through the conscious involvement of an informed and involved society. Einstein knew that if left to the control of governments, nuclear power would be the end of the world. Terror and evil governments require that same cost. If our citizenry fails to put forth the required investment, civilization will suffer horrific acts of terrorism, enormous losses of life and the death of liberty. My prayers are with you, they are with our nation; but most of all, they are with the surviving families of 9/11 as they suffer through the memories of this tragic day. May they and the world at large, never experience such a cowardice act of terrorism ever again. My name is Tracy Renee Lee. I am a Certified Grief Counselor (GC-C), Funeral Director (FDIC), published author, syndicated columnist, Podcaster and founder of the “Mikey Joe Children’s Memorial” and Heaven Sent, Corp. I write books, weekly bereavement articles, Podcasts and Grief BRIEFs related to understanding and coping with grief. I am the American Funeral Director of the Year Runner-Up and Recipient of the BBB’s Integrity Award. It is my life's work to comfort the bereaved and help them live on. For additional encouragement, please visit my podcast “Deadline” at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7MHPy4ctu9OLvdp2JzQsAA Or at: https://anchor.fm/tracy874 Follow me on Instagram at: "Deadline_TracyLee." < Previous News Next News >

Hallandale Beach Police Athletic League By Stephen Cummings July 1, 2021 Share PAL has embraced the phrase that “Sports are a metaphor for life” The Hallandale Beach Police Athletic League has followed the lead of its national parent and will now be known as the Hallandale Beach Police Athletic/Activities League. Jonathan Carrillo, Program Director explains that the organization will not only focus on team sports but, to emphasize its newly formed Leadership Academy supervised by Robert Flagg, who is mentoring teens, molding them with values to become productive citizens and conducting interactive exchanges via Zoom with young adults, regarding civic responsibilities. Currently, Hallandale Beach PAL offers participation in basketball, baseball, football, cheerleading, soccer, track and field and girls’ volleyball, hosting 1,200 members. Athletes have earned several medals and won championships with the hallmark stressing the importance of good sportsmanship and teamwork with respect for the players and the coaches. PAL has embraced the phrase that “Sports are a metaphor for life” aiming to provide the youth for actual adult situations and developing, outstanding virtuous behavior. The nascent Hallandale Beach Leadership Academy commenced during the recent Pandemic, through a generous grant from the national PAL office and offers an alternative to non-organized athletic competitions. Coordinated by PAL employee, Robert Flagg, the program bears the name Civics-101, A Conversation over ice cream. There are no classrooms or textbooks, but rather, interactive exchanges between the boys, the girls and various role models, from within the community. Flagg is also credited with starting the anti-bullying program, it is aiming not only for our local schools, but hopefully, it is intended spreading throughout Broward County. Slogans such as “Imagine its you, Do Something” and “Don’t be apathetic, be empathetic,” to encourage our youth to be intolerable of such foolishness and not to watch, idly. Schools are encouraged to post signs that read NO BULLY ZONE throughout the buildings. Many students have adorned the beautiful NO BULLY ZONE T-shirts that have been seen throughout Hallandale Beach. Another notable activity through the Leadership Academy, is entitled PAL Girls Summit with the tagline “Play nice, as I could be your CEO one day.” This activity is strictly geared toward females, where women who are corporate leaders share their experiences with the aspiring young girls. The Hallandale Beach Police Athletic / Activities League sustains its programs through grants, fundraisers and donations from caring individuals. If you can contribute to ensuring the expansion of these beneficial programs, please contact Jonathan Carrillo at: (954) 457-1466. < Previous News Next News >

Broward Children's Center Is Helping Those In Need - Thirty-Six Bed Pediatric Skilled Nursing Facility Serves Those From Birth To 21 Years Old South Florida Sun Times Apr 10, 2025 Broward Children’s Center (BCC) – A NonProfit Organization That Has Been Serving Infants, Children And Young Adults With Special Needs Since 1971 – Is Accepting Pediatric Patients For Its Children’s Comprehensive Care Center (CompCare) Who Require Ongoing Skilled Nursing And Group Home Placements. Broward Children’s Center is committed to providing specialized, skilled nursing care and group home placements for children with medical complexities and fragile health conditions. For over 40 years, Broward Children’s Center has been a trusted provider of compassionate care, ensuring that every child’s health and well-being are prioritized in a nurturing and family-centered environment. The Children’s Comprehensive Care Center (CompCare), located in Pompano Beach, Florida, is a licensed and accredited 36-bed freestanding pediatric skilled nursing state-of-the-art facility that serves children and young adults from birth to age 21 who have medically complex conditions and are medically stable. It’s the only freestanding sub-acute skilled nursing facility in the Southeast U.S. that offers short-and long-term care. Broward Children’s Center’s multidisciplinary team includes pediatric specialists, registered nurses, respiratory therapists and social workers who are experienced in complex pediatric care. CompCare provides 24/7 skilled nursing care for children with a wide range of medical needs, including but not limited to ventilator-dependent care, respiratory therapy, tracheostomy management, gastrostomy tube feeding, post-surgical recovery and complex cardiac or neurological care. The facility is equipped with the latest medical technology to provide the highest level of care in accordance with Medicaid and DCF guidelines. For children who cannot remain in a home setting, Broward Children Center’s group homes offer a supportive, home-like environment. Each home is staffed by medical professionals and trained caregivers to ensure the child’s needs are met, including medication management, specialized therapy and rehabilitative services, developmental support and social interaction and family-style care and engagement. Broward Children Center’s team is passionate about providing comprehensive pediatric care and specializes in holistic, patient-centered care plans tailored to each child’s medical condition and personal/social needs. Their team supports families navigating the challenges of caregiving, including counseling and training. It offers opportunities for socialization and educational engagement, encouraging each child to reach their fullest potential. Children also have the opportunity to attend school at one of the CompCare locations or attend public school with CompCare’s assistance. Children are continually being monitored by a Masimo wireless telemetry system, not just in their room, but anywhere on the CompCare property, affording them more freedom to thrive in a safe environment. Its highly qualified and experienced staff delivers state-of-the-art medical, educational, therapeutic and recreational care to residents based on individual needs. Each child’s needs are addressed through individual treatment plans, and care is provided until the child is medically stable and can be moved to a less restrictive environment. The facility features nursing, respiratory therapy, intravenous therapy, ventilator weaning program, assistive technology, diaphragmatic pacing, pediatrician, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, rehabilitative services, social work, recreational activities, educational services, certified nursing assistant, case management and nutrition. In addition, it offers total parenteral nutrition (TPN), pharmaceutical, transportation, cultural needs, discharge preparation, transition preparation, behavioral therapy, family strengthening and advocacy. The goal upon discharge is to send the child home with a network of care and support services to help maintain the child’s health and happiness in their own home environment. By partnering with clients and their families, CompCare has been able to pioneer the development of community-based medical, educational, social, psychological and recreational programs for those it serves. Its mission is to deliver field-leading programs that promote the greatest quality of life for infants, children, and young adults with special healthcare needs. “It’s our mission to provide quality programs to infants, children and young adults who are medically fragile through a continuum of services designed to meet the needs of children and their families,” said David Perez, MBA, Director of development at BCC. “Our team works closely with families and healthcare providers to ensure that every child receives personalized, comprehensive care. We encourage healthcare professionals to refer pediatric patients who require ongoing skilled nursing or group home placements.” Families, hospitals or healthcare providers referring a pediatric patient who requires skilled nursing or a group home placement can contact Rochilda Fevrius, MSW for more information or to initiate a referral, at: (954) 943-7638. Extension#: 203. Or call: (954) 215-355. Or email: RochildaF@bcckids.org . Broward Children’s Center Since 1971, Broward Children’s Center, a private, 501(c)(3) NonPprofit, has been providing medical, educational, therapeutic, recreational, daily living and advocacy services through its network of care to infants, children and young adults who are developmentally disabled and/or medically fragile. Through a continuum of services designed to meet the needs of each child and their families, Broward Children’s Center remains focused on delivering the highest quality care necessary to ensure that each individual is given every opportunity to thrive and succeed. Broward Children’s Center is located at 200 Southeast 19th Avenue, Pompano Beach, Florida 33060. For more information, please visit: www.bcckids.org - Or contact: (954) 504-5610. Or: Info@bcckids.org . Previous Next

A Season Of Classical And Neoclassical Ballets Thu Jul 25 2024 16:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Don't Worry About What Other People Think By Bryan Golden March 2, 2022 Share We grow up being taught to worry about what other people think. Are you concerned about what other people think about you and how you lead your life? Are your decisions influenced by the way you anticipate other people will see them? Are you worried about criticism? Does ridicule bother you? Why are you concerned about someone else's thoughts or opinions anyway? We grow up being taught to worry about what other people think. How many times did you hear, “What will the neighbors think?,” “What will your friends think,?” “What will the relatives think?,” or “What will people think?” in response to something you did or wanted to do? When you adjust your behavior to conform to what others think, you stifle your goals and restrict your happiness. Continually striving to meet someone else’s goals in place of your own, causes you endless frustration. Too many people structure their entire lives in response to their concern for the opinions of others. Where they live, who they marry, their occupation, and who they associate with, are just some of their decisions determined by what other people think. Why do we fall into this trap and what can we do about it? It starts with our craving for acceptance. As children we seek approval from our parents. Over time this need spreads to friends, relatives, and even strangers. Additionally, the hunger for acceptance is combined with seeking to avoid criticism, ridicule, and rejection. These are powerful emotions because they are based on the fear of “what if.” What if people make fun of me? What if I’m not included? What if people don’t invite me? What if people don’t approve of what I’m doing? The list is endless but the result is the same: conforming to what other people might think ultimately makes you unhappy. The irony is that even when you do what you think other people want, they either don’t care or aren’t satisfied anyway. So, after adjusting your life, nothing has changed except the fact that you are continually unhappy. So, in the end, it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks. Today is the day to break free in order to start living on your terms. You begin from where you are right now. There’s no point to lamenting any past decisions. Your objective is to avoid repeating past mistakes while moving forward. It doesn’t matter if you are criticized for taking control of your life. After all, attempting to avoid criticism didn’t work out too well. There is no obligation to explain why you are changing direction. You don’t have to convince anyone that this is the right course for you. Where you want to go from here is based on an honest assessment of yourself. What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? What do you like? What do you dislike? What are your goals? If you don’t know the answers to these questions, it’s essential that you take time to figure them out. Next, you need to formulate a step-by-step plan to get where you want to be. Each step must be small enough to be manageable. If one step seems too big, break it down into smaller sub-steps. Now it’s time for action. The formula for success is taking one step at a time. Don’t worry about what other people think. The direction of your life and your happiness is your responsibility. Setbacks are a normal part of goal attainment. Yet, this is the point at which you will be inundated with negative advice, criticism, and even ridicule. Ignore all of it. When you stumble, get up, dust yourself off, and resume your journey forward. You will be very pleasantly surprised by how much more joy you experience by not worrying about what others think. Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits." Contact Bryan at Bryan@columnist.com or visit www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com Copyright 2022 Bryan Golden < Previous News Next News >

South Florida’s Freedom Tax Center: Your Trusted Partner in Navigating Complex Tax Matters – We're Open for Business! February 14, 2025 Share The ever-changing landscape of tax laws can be daunting for many individuals and businesses. However, there’s a trusted partner in the region that has been easing the burden of tax-related stress and ensuring accuracy and compliance for years - Freedom Tax Center. Open now to file tax returns, Freedom Tax Center encourages individuals and businesses to get started early to avoid being penalized, as well as to protect themselves against tax fraud and identity theft. With tax season quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to take action and ensure your returns are filed correctly and on time. Founded by the Abikarram family, Freedom Tax Center has solidified its position as a leader in the tax industry. Operating from Hallandale Beach, their team of highly trained professionals is known for their exceptional service and their commitment to handling personal and sensitive information with the utmost care, resulting in a stellar reputation within the community. In February, Jesus and his team will mark 32 years of service in Hallandale, contributing to Freedom Tax's combined 50 years of experience in the business. Freedom Tax Center offers a wide range of comprehensive tax services, tailored to meet the diverse needs of both individuals and businesses. At the core of their offerings is the preparation of personal and business tax returns. For individuals, they conduct a thorough assessment of their financial situation to ensure that every tax advantage is utilized, from deductions for homeownership to investments and education expenses. Their expertise shines through when dealing with complex tax situations, such as self-employment income, rental properties, and multi-state filings, all with the goal of maximizing returns and minimizing liabilities. In addition to their tax preparation services, Freedom Tax Center also provides assistance with tax planning strategies. Their team works closely with clients to develop proactive tax strategies that minimize liabilities and maximize potential refunds. By offering year-round consulting, Freedom Tax Center ensures that individuals and businesses remain compliant and financially prepared for tax season. Businesses, whether they are small startups or established corporations, find indispensable support in Freedom Tax Center’s services. They meticulously address business-specific tax considerations, including corporate structure, payroll taxes, and industry-specific deductions, all while staying up-to-date with the latest tax regulations and providing strategic advice to align with the company’s financial goals. Additionally, they assist new businesses with entity selection and registration, helping entrepreneurs make informed decisions that benefit them in the long run. In today’s increasingly popular realms of cryptocurrency and cannabis taxation, Freedom Tax Center demonstrates a forward-thinking approach. They offer specialized services to individuals and businesses engaged in these sectors, helping navigate the complex tax implications associated with cryptocurrency transactions and the evolving legal landscape of the cannabis industry. For cryptocurrency enthusiasts, from miners to traders and digital asset holders, Freedom Tax Center ensures accurate reporting and compliance with IRS guidelines. Similarly, for businesses in the burgeoning field of cannabis and CBD products, their expert guidance on federal and state tax regulations helps establish a solid financial foundation in this new and challenging market. Another cornerstone of Freedom Tax Center’s services is their assistance with ITIN (Individual Tax Identification Number) applications. This service is particularly vital for individuals without a Social Security number, such as non-residents or foreign investors, who have tax reporting requirements in the United States. Their expertise in this area ensures that clients navigate the ITIN process smoothly, fulfilling their tax obligations without unnecessary complications. Complementing these services, Freedom Tax Center’s sister company, Freedom Tax Resolution, steps in to assist clients facing disputes with the IRS. From dealing with tax liens and bank garnishments to negotiating reasonable installment agreements and offers in compromise, their team provides robust support and advocacy. This comprehensive approach to tax resolution is tailored to each client’s unique situation, aiming to achieve the most favorable outcome while reducing stress and uncertainty. What sets Freedom Tax Resolution apart is not just their expertise, but also their commitment to keeping clients informed and involved throughout the resolution process. They understand that dealing with the IRS can be overwhelming and strive to make the experience as transparent and stress-free as possible by providing consistent updates and clear explanations, ensuring that clients are never in the dark about the status of their case. Unlike many tax firms that operate seasonally, Freedom Tax Center provides year-round service, emphasizing their commitment to accessibility and ongoing support for their clients. They also provide bookkeeping and accounting services, ensuring businesses remain financially organized throughout the year. Their bookkeeping solutions help business owners maintain accurate records, track expenses, and prepare for tax season with confidence. In a world where tax laws are constantly evolving, Freedom Tax Center remains a trusted partner for both individuals and businesses. Their wide range of services, expertise in specialized areas, and commitment to client service make them an ideal choice for anyone seeking peace of mind and professionalism in managing their tax affairs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the Freedom Tax Center website or contact them at 954-454-2080. Their office is located at 600 W Hallandale Beach Blvd Ste. 4, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009. < Previous News Next News >

The 2025 Aventura Broadway Concert Series: Featuring The Original Stars Of The Broadway blockbusters “Rent,” “Hairspray” And “Jersey Boys” June 20, 2024 Share The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, which has hosted such legendary Broadway stars as Patti LuPone, Bernadette Peters and Mandy Patinkin, is proud to announce the 2025 Broadway Concert Series presented by the City of Aventura featuring the original stars of several Broadway blockbusters. Tickets are on sale now to see Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, who starred together in Rent; a Hairspray original cast reunion with Marissa Jaret Winokur, Kerry Butler and Laura Bell Bundy; and John Lloyd Young, who portrayed Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys on both stage and screen. Ticket buyers also have the option to purchase the opportunity to meet the artists after the show and have a photo taken. The series begins on Sunday, January 19th at 7:00 p.m. when Tony Award Nominee Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp perform their new show celebrating 30 years of friendship in an unforgettable and celebratory night of music, stories, and fun. The duo will deliver songs from Rent and various projects throughout their careers as well as music that has influenced their lives. Since originating the role of Roger in Rent, Pascal has appeared in leading roles in the Broadway hits Aida, Memphis, Something Rotten!, and Disaster! Rapp, who originated the role of Mark in Rent, just completed an acclaimed Off-Broadway run of his original show Without You and is known for starring in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Hedwig and the Angry Inch and If/Then. Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the original Broadway Musical Hairspray, original cast members Marissa Jaret Winokur (Tracy), Kerry Butler (Penny) and Laura Bell Bundy (Amber) reunite for the first time in Mama, I’m a Big Girl Now on Thursday, March 6th at 8:00 p.m. With 16 Broadway shows and over 200 episodes of television between them, this trio has truly done it all as Winokur starred in Dancing with the Stars, Butler received a Tony nomination for Xanadu and Bundy’s performance in Legally Blonde also received Tony nomination. These powerhouse performers take the audience on a hilarious and meaningful musical journey singing hits from their shows as they share stories from their origins as teenage performers, strong friendships, acclaimed careers and their children. When Broadway Producers and Film Director Clint Eastwood needed to find a performer to match the immense talent and legendary charisma of Frankie Valli for Jersey Boys they turned to John Lloyd Young who stars in the 2025 Broadway Concert Series season finale on Friday, March 8th at 8:00 p.m. Young, who received both a Tony and Grammy® Award for his performance in Jersey Boys, will deliver a celebration of classic hits from the '50s and '60s presented in the authentic acoustic style of original Rock 'n' Roll, Doo-Wop and R&B standards. Along with tracks from Young's critically acclaimed debut album My Turn, the show features "Sherry," "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You," "Hold Me," "Thrill Me, Kiss Me" and "In the Still of the Night" along with treasures from, among others, Roy Orbison, The Platters, the Righteous Brothers, Paul McCartney, Adele, Luther Vandross, Little Anthony, Elvis and Tom Jones. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - by phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222 or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-Square-Foot, 330-seat waterfront complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. < Previous News Next News >

Paddleboard on Hollywood Beach: New Rental Kiosk Locations Have Been Added Thu Jun 16 2022 04:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Honoring The Past & Making Changes For The Future By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper October 7, 2021 Share Fellow commissioners and friends paid final respects to former Hallandale Beach Vice Mayor Bill Julian this past weekend. Vice Mayor Julian was the longest serving Vice Mayor in the City’s History, funeral Services & Memorial were held this past Saturday. Services were held at St. Matthews Catholic Church. Following the mass, The Celebration of Life proceeded to the Veteran’s Memorial at Hallandale Beach City Hall where the honor guard paid tribute to Bill's three tours of military service and a wreath was placed next to a memorial brick in his honor, refreshments followed at the American Legion Post 310. In tribute to Bill, donations can be made in honor of his life service and can be made payable to the American Legion Post 310: American Legion Post 310: 225 Southeast 1st Avenue Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. This past Saturday there was a beautiful mass held at St. Matthew’s Church to celebrate the life of Vice Mayor Bill Julian. Former Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Adams arranged the mass and her granddaughter Sabrina Adams-Oliveras delivered a beautiful eulogy. I was honored to share a message as well. After mass a dedication was held at our Veterans Memorial with the Hallandale ROTC presenting the colors. Many of Bill's friends gathered at the American Legion Post 310, where Commander Ed Pickett made a beautiful historical speech about Bill's rich history in Hallandale Beach. I would like to thank Joy Adams on behalf of the City, the many friends that gathered to honor Bill and he will be missed by many. Chief Sonia Quiñones Retiring: Last week our City Manager received the retirement request from Chief Quiñones, who was made Chief in Transition on September 24th and Deputy Chief Michel Michel was appointed Chief. Chief Quiñones has been with the City for over 28 years. She rose through the ranks as a Sergeant, a Captain, a Major and was made Chief 4 years ago. Throughout her tenure she established many new initiatives and programs to reduce crime. She served as a DEA Agent at one time performing many undercover operations. She will not be formally retired until October 29th, 2021. Dr. Jeremy Earle will be conducting a national search to find a new Chief. Update on our Building Department: Over the past weeks our City Manager has hired Mrs. Shellie Jackson as our Head Building Official. Mrs. Jackson was our building official when City Manager Renee Miller was overseeing our day-to-day operations. We are very fortunate to have her back. The department has expanded to address implementation of the 40 year inspection enforcements. In partnership with the IT Department, we have adapted newer technology to streamline our online application process even further. Due to the increase in staffing our department has been split between the City Hall and the Annex at our Fire Station on Northwest 1st Avenue and Foster Road. The department is open now at the City Hall from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. We do encourage applicants to make an appointment if necessary. Our online system does allow for full access to all of the documents and comments for the status of permits. There is an easy portal where constituents can put in the permit number to find and follow the status. Applicants can upload documents and respond to comments. It is important to note that all contractors should be well versed in the process and of all requirements applicable to the permit itself. South Florida Building Codes are the same as other jurisdictions other than the rule starting with hurricane building standards. Please note that permits do take time. If permits are not filed with even the simplest of information, such as: contractor certifications, insurance and business licenses will hold up the application process. They will receive a denied response and enter it back into the cycle. My colleagues and I have been answering many calls about building permits requests. In these cases I have filled them in most of the time, this is due to the lack of documentation. When this happens, it can set back the applicant for weeks. The typical cycle has been three weeks, but it is actually 12 twelve working days. Our City Hall is open from Monday to Thursday. I will be hosting a Town Hall Zoom Meeting to introduce our new official, the new systems and discuss the 40 year inspection process within the month. As we approach the holidays, many non-profit organizations are having difficulty securing turkeys for their giveaway events. I received a call from Joe Rodrigues from Rodriguez Charites. They are always extremely generous for those in need and typically sponsor a large turkey giveaway at the Cheetah Club here in Hallandale Beach. While they cannot provide a giveaway, he has generously donated the funds so they could be used at our Hepburn Center to supplement our feeding program. Due to COVID-19, we will not be hosting an in person dinner but we will be providing drive through meals, the date, time and details will be forthcoming. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City, a better place, on my phone/text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can e-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org Please visit my Facebook Page: MayorJoyCooper. Like It! Friend It! Share It! < Previous News Next News >

Public Adjuster PICC has settled 50,000 homeowners claims since 2001 Mon Dec 13 2021 05:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Kindness: Break The Cycle of Indifference Thu Jun 30 2022 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Memorial Bringing Healthcare To Hollywood Communities ‘One City At A Time' January 25, 2024 Share Join us on Saturday, January 27th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Washington Park for the kick-off of the Memorial Healthcare System’s ‘One City At A Time’ Program. The City of Hollywood is partnering with Memorial on this initiative to improve the health of our surrounding communities by providing easy access to healthcare for everyone. Following the Kick-Off, beginning Tuesday, January 30th, Memorial Mobile Health Vans will be stationed 3 days a week at Hollywood Community Centers providing FREE Primary Health Care Services to the community. The Mobile Health Van will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the following locations: • Tuesdays: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center 2400 Charleston Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020 • Wednesdays: Boulevard Heights Community Center 6770 Garfield Street, Hollywood, Florida 33024 • Thursdays: Washington Park Community Center 5199 Pembroke Road, Hollywood, Florida 33023 Kick-off Event Saturday, January 27th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Washington Park Community Center - 5199 Pembroke Road, Hollywood, Florida 33023 Get ready for exciting raffles and prizes for the lucky winners. The family day will feature a live DJ and activities for all ages. Here are a few services you can expect: Vaccines, Health Screenings, Health Education, School Physicals, Nutritional Counseling, Medicaid Eligibility and Insurance Enrollment Information, Q&A with doctors and links to social services and much more! The event is open to everyone, regardless of insurance, and there's no need to make an appointment. There will be a food distribution, lunch provided and snow cones for all attendees. Please RSVP to: CommunityRelations@mhs.net . Hollywood Pride This past month, My Hollywood Pride announced that the 2024 My Hollywood Pride Street Festival will take place on Sunday, January 28th, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in Downtown Hollywood. My Hollywood Pride developed as the result of advocacy by The Hollywood LGBTQ+ Council on behalf of the voices, perspectives and presence of LGBTQ+ residents in the Greater Hollywood area to build a more diverse and inclusive community. The Council was founded in 2019 by Hollywood residents and continues to be a leading advocacy group, representing over 700 members. In 2022, members of the Hollywood LGBTQ+ Council successfully produced the Inaugural My Hollywood Pride, which was held on January 22nd, 2022. The success of the event led to the incorporation of My Hollywood Pride, Inc. later that year to take over the role of producing this annual event. The Hollywood LGBTQ+ Council continues to be an important Sponsor of My Hollywood Pride. The 2022 Inaugural “My Hollywood Pride'' was a tremendous success and the 2024 “My Hollywood Pride” is expected to be even bigger and better. On Sunday, January 28th, 2024 we will be back on Hollywood Boulevard to greet you for the second edition of this now-annual tradition. And we have chosen the theme “Welcome Home!” to guide us. Over the last couple of years, Florida has been a leader in Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislations and as a result LGBTQ+ people, especially our youth, are the target of unfair and unequal treatment. LGBTQ+ people have long created their own chosen families in the face of adversity and marginalization. With that in mind, we are inviting you to join us as though we were welcoming you back to our home and remind everyone that we are stronger together. Our mission is to provide a space where everyone is welcome and where you can feel proud to be who you are. And it is in that space where we can laugh, dance and learn together. In 2024, we will continue to provide a place for kids, youth and families to come together and also be a place that invites everyone in to learn more about LGBTQ+ Art and Culture and where you can celebrate. My Hollywood Pride, Inc. is 501(c)3 Non-Profit as determined by the Internal Revenue Service and is governed by a Board Of Directors that oversees the Pride Committee, which develops programming and activities around the Annual My Hollywood Pride. For more information about My Hollywood Pride visit: www.MyHollywoodPride.com - Or to learn more about The LGBTQ+ Council go to: www.lgbtqcouncil.com - Or contact Melissa Robles at: (904) 472-7838. < Previous News Next News >