Portrait of A Queen: CeCe Teneal Celebrates Aretha Franklin Fri Jan 14 2022 05:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

SBA Offers Disaster Assistance July 8, 2021 Share Businesses and residents affected by the collapse of the Champlain Towers South can apply for low-interest disaster loans Florida businesses and residents affected by the collapse of the Champlain Towers South in Miami-Dade County on June 24, 2021 can apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman announced today. Administrator Guzman made the loans available in response to a letter from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ representative on June 26, requesting a disaster declaration by the SBA. The declaration covers Miami-Dade County and the adjacent counties of Broward, Collier and Monroe in Florida. “The SBA is strongly committed to ensuring Floridians receive a swift and effective response to help communities recover after the Surfside condominium collapse,” said SBA Administrator Isabella Guzman. “Getting our businesses of all sizes, homeowners and renters up and running after a disaster with the help of our specialized loans is our highest priority at SBA.” To assist businesses and residents affected by the disaster, the SBA opened a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) at 12 p.m. Thursday, July 1 at the Family Assistance Center, Sea View Hotel, 9909 Collins Avenue, Bal Harbour, FL 33154. Customer Service Representatives will be available at the DLOC to answer questions about the disaster loan program and help individuals complete their applications. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the SBA has established protocols to help protect the health and safety of the public. Visitors to the DLOC are encouraged to wear a face mask. The center will stay open until further notice. Miami-Dade County Family Assistance Center Sea View Hotel 9909 Collins Avenue Bal Harbour, FL 33154 Opened Thursday, July 1, 2021 Until Further Notice Hours: Monday – Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. 7 days a week Contact Information SBA Phone number, 1800-659-2955 Phone number for the deaf or hard-of-hearing: 1800-877-8339. DisasterCustomerService@Sba.gov Apply now at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/article/Apply-For-A-Disaster-Loan or go to the center in Bay Harbour “Businesses and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets,” said SBA’s South Florida’s Acting District Director Gregory Hall. For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage. “Loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property,” said Kem Fleming, center director of SBA’s Field Operations Center East in Atlanta. Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase up to 20 percent of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements may include a safe room or storm shelter, sump pump, French drain or retaining wall to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by a similar disaster. Interest rates are as low as 2.88 percent for businesses, 2.00 percent for nonprofit organizations, and 1.625 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amount and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition. Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/article/Apply-For-A-Disaster-Loan and should apply under SBA declaration # 17005, not for the COVID-19 incident. Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or by sending an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov . Loan applications can be downloaded from sba.gov/disaster. Completed applications should be mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is August 30, 2021. The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 29, 2022. Information for Victims and Families In coordination with the Town of Surfside, Miami-Dade County is providing briefings on a regular basis to the families impacted by the Surfside building collapse to share the latest updates on the investigation. Those families can call 305-614-1819 or visit www.MiamiDade.gov/emergency Surfside Families Surfside Family Information & Assistance System https://www.surfsidefamilies.com/s/ Surfside Strength Support and Assistance for Champlain Tower South Victim https://surfsidestrength.com Support Surfside Help Those Impacted by the Surfside Building Collapse https://supportsurfside.org Family Reunification Hotline 305.614.1819 Families of missing loved ones who have not yet spoken with County detectives, please visit 9301 Collins Avenue (Town of Surfside Community Center) to speak in person with a detective. Detectives are available 24 hours/day. < Previous News Next News >

Have It Sweet Like Honey, Honey! May You & Your Families Be Blessed With A Happy & Healthy, Good & Sweet New Year By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil September 14, 2023 Share “Shana Tova Umetuka” - “May you have a good and sweet year” is what we typically wish each other in the month leading up to the Jewish New Year, and I bet you’ve always wondered why we give a double wish, that the year should be both good and sweet. If it's good, isn't it sweet? It's got to be more than just poetic. The Talmud teaches us that everything that happens in the world is for the good. And although many times it seems far from good, you should know that ultimately it somehow is for the good. We therefore wish each other, that not just should you have a good year, but also a sweet one. A year that is not just ultimately for the good, but rather one where the good is obvious to all. A year that is deliciously sweet! Many give each other Teiglach, Honey Cookies or Honey Cake - known as Lekach. In fact the Chassidic custom is to specifically ask someone (usually the Rabbi, but not necessarily) for a piece of or a Shtickle Lekach. We hope and pray that if there's anything that we must ask or beg anyone for in the coming year, we should fulfill it with that ask. It is also the custom of eating sweet foods on Rosh Hashanah itself, especially an apple dipped in Honey with a special prayer that G-d grant us a good & sweet year. The Challah is dipped in Honey. A special dish known as Tzimmes is a European Carrot concoction cooked in Honey. As well as many other foods we eat with honey. My mother z'ls delicious Tzimmes included Chuck Fleisch and Marrow Bones and was one of the most delicious dishes ever. Ah, good memories! Of course by now you surely know that the theme of Honey throughout this season symbolizes the sweet year we all yearn for. But why specifically Honey? Why not Sugar, Splenda or any other Sweetener? For starters, Israel was blessed to be a land flowing with Milk and Honey! Eating Honey, wherever we may be, reminds us of our ancient homeland and our deep connection to Israel. Have you ever seen an expiration date on Honey? Honey can last for a really long time! A quick Google search will tell you that Honey can last for centuries, but perhaps it can even last longer than that! Many times there are people that get blessings. They win the lottery or stumble across a treasure. But the blessings unfortunately don't always last and all their money can disappear as fast as it appeared or even worse, break families and friends apart. On Rosh Hashanah we pray that we not only get a blessed year, but that the blessing lasts. Furthermore, honey can be used as a preservative. When Adam and Eve, whose birthdays we celebrate on Rosh Hashanah, were created, they were commanded to work the earth and to guard it. To protect it and all that it contains. To preserve the world and constantly make it a better place. I wish each and every one of you a Shana Tova Umetuka! May you and your families be blessed with a Happy & Healthy, Good & Sweet New Year! May you be showered with blessings and may they last for a very long time! May you always be there for others! May you be a preservative for this beautiful world and help bring it to the perfection G-d has intended for it! May this year be your best year ever! This year we will celebrate Rosh Hashanah beginning Friday evening, September 15th at sundown, and concluding Sunday evening, September 17th at nightfall. To learn more about Rosh Hashanah and the many customs associated with it visit: www.ChabadChayil.org/High-Holidays - You can also pick up a free holiday guide at Chabad Chayil's office or call us and we will be happy to email or mail it to you free of charge. I encourage you to attend your local Chabad or Synagogue to enjoy Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot and all the high holidays to their fullest. Of course you can always join us at The Family Shul for services or holiday dinner, but you would need to RSVP in advance at: (305) 770-1919. Or: www.TheFamilyShul.com - The community dinner will of course include Apples Dipped in Honey, Traditional Round Challah, Gefilteh Fish, my mothers Tzimmes Recipe, Kugel and all the delicious holiday foods! The Author Rabbi Kievman is the ambassador of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. He's founder of CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools, Gan Chabad Preschool, Rabbi at The Family Shul & together with his wife directs Chabad Chayil. He can be reached at: (305) 770-1919. Or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org . < Previous News Next News >

Attention ‘Sea Foodies’: The South Beach Seafood Festival Is Back Thu Jul 07 2022 04:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Second Chances, First Loves: Meet Goose And Tanner South Florida Sun Times Apr 30, 2026 At any given moment inside a busy animal shelter, there are dozens—sometimes hundreds—of stories waiting to be rewritten. Some begin with uncertainty, others with loss, but all share the same hopeful middle: the chance that someone will walk through the doors and see not just a pet, but a companion. Among those waiting are Goose and Tanner—two very different animals with one thing in common: they’re ready to bring joy, comfort, and connection into the right home. Goose, a five-year-old Australian Shepherd mix, is the kind of dog who seems to carry sunshine in his stride. With bright eyes and boundless energy, he approaches life like it’s an adventure waiting to unfold. Whether he’s sprinting after a tennis ball, investigating a new scent trail, or greeting fellow dogs with enthusiasm, Goose embodies the spirit of play. For active individuals or families, he’s not just a pet—he’s a built-in motivation system, a daily reminder that life is better when you get outside and move. But Goose isn’t just about high-energy fun. Beneath that lively exterior is a thoughtful and sensitive soul. Loud noises can make him uneasy, and like many intelligent, emotionally attuned dogs, he forms strong bonds with his people. That means he may experience some separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. It’s not a flaw—it’s a reflection of how deeply he connects. For Goose, the ideal home is one where companionship is constant, whether through a human who spends a lot of time at home or another dog who can keep him company. Fortunately, Goose is already well on his way to being a great housemate. He’s crate-trained and finds comfort in having a space to call his own—a quiet retreat where he can relax and recharge. His compatibility with other dogs makes him an excellent candidate for a multi-pet household, especially one that can match his playful energy. While his history with children and cats is unknown, his affectionate nature suggests that, with patience and proper introductions, he could adapt beautifully. If Goose represents exuberance and motion, Tanner offers something quieter but equally profound. At seven years old, Tanner is a cat who has traded youthful chaos for a calm, steady affection. His past may be a mystery, but his present is full of warmth. Volunteers describe him as friendly, gentle, and deeply loving—a cat who leans into your hand for pets and happily settles in for a good cuddle session. Tanner has a particular fondness for simple pleasures. String toys and feather wands bring out his playful side, reminding everyone that age is just a number. And when the toys are put away, he’s perfectly content to bask in attention, soaking up chin scratches and belly rubs with quiet satisfaction. He’s the kind of companion who doesn’t demand constant activity but instead enriches your day with small, meaningful moments of connection. Despite his many charms, Tanner faces a challenge that has nothing to do with his personality. In a shelter environment, older cats often get overlooked in favor of kittens. Add to that the fact that Tanner is FIV positive, and his wait for a home can be longer than it should be. But here’s the truth: FIV, or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, is widely misunderstood. With proper care—regular veterinary visits, a nutritious diet, and an indoor lifestyle—cats with FIV can live long, happy, and fulfilling lives. Tanner doesn’t see himself as defined by a diagnosis, and neither should anyone else. What he offers is companionship in its purest form: steady, affectionate, and deeply rewarding. For someone seeking a calm and loving presence, Tanner is more than enough—he’s exceptional. Choosing to adopt a pet is never just about filling a space in your home; it’s about opening your life to a relationship that will grow and evolve over time. Goose and Tanner may have different needs and personalities, but they both ask for the same essential things: patience, understanding, and love. In return, they offer loyalty, joy, and a kind of connection that’s difficult to put into words. There’s something powerful about giving an animal a second chance. It’s not just about rescuing them—it’s about discovering how much they have to give. Goose will remind you to embrace life with enthusiasm, to find excitement in the everyday. Tanner will show you the beauty of quiet companionship, the comfort of a gentle presence by your side. Somewhere out there is the perfect match for each of them. Maybe it’s an active household ready for Goose’s boundless energy, or a peaceful home where Tanner can curl up and feel safe. Maybe it’s someone who didn’t realize they were ready for a pet until they met just the right one. That’s the magic of adoption — it’s not just about finding a pet. It’s about finding each other. To meet a pet at the Humane Society of Broward County, visit: www.humanebroward.com and complete the Pre-Adoption Application. The shelter is located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312 and the Adoption Kennels open daily at 11:00 a.m. - appointments are not required. The shelter's vaccine clinic is open 6 days a week and you can learn more on the website. Goose 671426 Tanner 714391 Previous Next

Attention Drivers: Hallandale Beach Boulevard To Close For a Week Thu Nov 25 2021 05:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

6 Savvy Ways To Ensure Grilling Success This Summer By Feature Impact Jul 23, 2026 There’s Just Something Timeless About A Summer Cookout With Friends, Family Or Neighbors. Whether It’s The Sound Of Burgers Sizzling On The Grill Or The Smell Of Your Favorite Seasonal Sides, The Event Invokes Nostalgia And Camaraderie. While the spotlight may land on the burgers and barbecued fare, seasoned grill masters know the supporting cast matters, too. Makers of soft, delicious hamburger and hot dog buns fit to be the foundation of summer gatherings for more than 100 years, the bun experts at Wonder suggest a few ways to ensure your entertaining ventures are successful throughout the season. Do What You Can Ahead of Time Stick to a mix of easy favorites and make-ahead sides to keep prep manageable while offering something for everyone to enjoy. When possible, prep ahead of time so you can keep your focus on the fun and your attention on the hot grill. Chop vegetables, wash lettuce for burgers, make sure you have picked out the perfect buns, form and season beef patties and mix marinades the day before the big bash to avoid last-minute rushes around the kitchen. Prep the Grill Patience is key when it comes to grilling, as a properly heated grill is the foundation for good cooking. Give gas grills enough time to come to temperature, around 10-15 minutes, and allow charcoal to ash over completely. When grilling different types of food, it’s especially helpful to set up cooking zones – direct and indirect – so you can cook meat, veggies and buns differently or move finished food to one side, as needed. Additionally, to help prevent sticking, lightly oil the clean grill grates before cooking. Using tongs and a paper towel dipped in oil is often more effective than coating foods with oil. Use a Meat Thermometer You may be a seasoned grill master, but guesswork can lead to mistakes, especially when cooking for a crowd. Avoid overcooked (or worse, undercooked) chicken and burgers by using an instant-read thermometer to help ensure meat is cooked safely while retaining its juicy flavor. Grill Buns Correctly Burgers and hot dogs are classics for a reason, but avoiding soggy buns and mid-bite fallout requires the right bun for the job. Striking the perfect balance of pillowy softness with the structure to hold their shape through every loaded topping, condiment and bite is key when choosing the right bun for the job. More than just a vehicle for grilled favorites, Wonder Classic Hamburger and Hot Dog Buns are a familiar taste that makes cookouts delicious and have held it together, literally and figuratively, for more than a century. In continuing its longstanding partnership with the USO through the annual Deploy the Joy campaign, you can keep an eye out through Sept. 12 for special packaging on select products with scannable QR codes for a chance to win a $10,000 Birthday Bash. For great grilled buns, follow a few easy steps: 1. Brush cut sides of buns with softened butter, mayo or both to help the bun brown evenly. 2. Lightly salt the buttered side before grilling. 3. During the last 2 minutes of cooking burgers or dogs, place buns cut-side down over medium-low heat for 30-60 seconds. Look for a light golden toast, crisp enough to hold up. Let Food Rest Before Serving After grilling, give meat a few minutes to rest before serving or slicing. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the food for better texture and flavor. Layer Burgers, Condiments and Toppings After toasting buns, add a thin layer of sauce to coat the bun then lettuce that’s been patted dry to remove moisture. Add cheese to the opposite bun and be sure to place the burger and other toppings in the center to keep moisture away from the bread, preventing sogginess. Follow this simple order for sturdy buns: • Toasted top bun • Condiment or sauce • Cheese • Burger • Tomato and onion • Lettuce • Condiment or sauce • Toasted bottom bun From simple, practical menus to crave-worthy twists on classics, you can find more ways to host a successful summer barbecue by visiting: www.WonderBread.com/recipes . Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (grilling hamburgers) Previous Next

Plucky, Resilient And Heartwarming: Summer Theater Camp Young Professionals Perform This Beloved Story July 13, 2023 Share The Broward Center and the Performance Project present the Summer Theater Camp Young Professionals production of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. is currently running today through Saturday, July 15th, 2023 including a sensory-inclusive performance on Saturday, July 15th, 2023. Performed in the Amaturo Theater by the talented 13 to 18-year-old Young Professionals student group, this musical is a 60-minute stage adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar Movie Finding Nemo, perfect for families and young audiences. Like their professional counterparts, each actor had to audition for this cast performing a monologue and a show tune for the artistic director. Once accepted, the campers have been in intensive classes and rehearsals to prepare for opening night. Finding Nemo JR. features new songs written by Award-Winning Composers Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, who have won Emmy®, Grammy®, Oscar® and Tony® Awards. Described as plucky, resilient and heartwarming, this musical follows the adventures of Marlin, a timid clownfish, and his son, Nemo. After Nemo is captured on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and taken to Sydney, he and Marlin face challenges and adventures on their journey to be reunited. Performances are Thursday and Friday at 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Noon; Saturday, July 8th, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and on Saturday, July 15th, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. For the sensory-inclusive performance on Saturday, July 15th, 2023 at 11:00 a.m., slight adjustments have been made to the production including reduced sound levels, no flashing or strobe lights and minimal special effects. Sensory-inclusive performances create a welcoming and supportive environment for children and adults on the Autism Spectrum as well as individuals with other sensitivity issues or developmental challenges. Adjacent to the theater is the ABA Centers of Florida Quiet Room with specially trained volunteers to provide audience support. Audiences will enjoy complimentary pre-show arts and crafts activities provided by Young At Art Museum. The Broward Center's sensory-inclusive programming is made possible through the generous support of ABA Centers of Florida, The Batchelor Foundation, The Gore Family Memorial Foundation Trust, Nicklaus Children's Hospital and The Taft Foundation with special thanks to UM-NSU CARD for their in-kind support. Tickets for weekday performances are $10 with $3 Lap Tickets for children 12 months and younger. Admission to weekend performances is $15 with $5 Lap Tickets for children 12 months and younger. Tickets to the sensory-inclusive performance are $15 with $10 Early Bird Pricing when purchased at least one week prior to the performance. Lap Tickets for children 12 months of age and younger are $5. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316. For more information visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Like them on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter And: https://www.facebook.com/browardcentereducation/ - Follow them on Twitter and Instagram at: @BrowardCenter and subscribe to their channel at: www.Youtube.com/user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with #BrowardCenter. The Broward Center 2022/2023 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center are proud sponsors of the Broward Center. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 700 performances each year to more than 700,000 patrons, showcasing a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level, the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion, waterfront dining at Marti’s New River Bistro and innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and Parker Playhouse. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222 or in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org < Previous News Next News >

The State of the City: An Eye to The Future of Hallandale Beach By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper June 8, 2023 Share This past Tuesday, I had the honor to deliver “The State of the City Address,” I want to thank the Hallandale Beach Area Chamber for their honor and the many stakeholders that joined in the event. I will be sharing my speech over the next few weeks. Please note it is in speech form. Over the past year, I think we have all moved out of COVID-19 with an eye to the future. Obviously, we are still faced with many social and economic problems. Insurance Costs, Housing Costs, the Stock Market, the War in Ukraine, Gun Violence, just to name a few. What will the future look like? All of these issues have a direct or indirect impact on the way we run our cities, how you run your businesses and how our residents go through their daily lives. But as we move forward, I believe we all are striving and working towards stability and hopefully growth, the state of our City in one word: Stable, I do not want to go too far back in our past. As it is said that we cannot change it, but we can learn from it. A little over 5 years ago, I came back as Mayor. At that time, the City was in financial dire straits. As a matter of fact, the reserves had dropped to $11 Million Dollars, They were projected to dip to $8 Million then Financial Insolvency. As a rule of thumb, our City’s goal is to have a minimum of 16% percent of General Fund Reserves in case of an Emergency. Currently, due to the hard work of our City and sacrifices of our taxpayers we have over $24 Million in Unaudited Reserves as of last month. That sounds fantastic, right? Well, it is but there are still past issues that are a threat to the stability of our Budget. We are still facing a $6 Million Dollar Judgment for the firing of Former City Manager Daniel Rosemond. The Case is on Appeal, so we need to ensure we have savings if the Appeal Court supports the ruling. Even with that large use of reserves to pay this unfortunate debt, we will not go back to where we began five years ago. I do not want to place blame on any one thing or person, but this situation reinforces that leadership truly matters and the buck stops with the Commission! To those of you that are new to our community, this history explains why and where we are today. In 2016, the City Commission changed due to Elections. The silver lining at that time was the recruitment of Dr. Jeremy Earle from Fort Lauderdale to Hallandale Beach to become Executive Director of the CRA. You see, Dr. Jeremy Earle has Public Service in his DNA. I first met Dr. Jeremy Earle as a Board Member of the Florida Redevelopment Association where we both served. He became President, turned the organization around and made it solvent. This is proof of his strong leadership, financial knowledge, strategic vision and most of all integrity. We all know that ethics and morals are part of one’s character, but the “reporting of true facts” is actually integrity. This one thing my Dad taught me: you should never allow anyone to take away from you. That is why I fought my biggest battle. I believe that Dr. Jeremy Earle was also raised with those values and never forgets them no matter what position he holds. So, he deserves the super majority of credit and recognition of why we are stable. W. Clement Stone, an entrepreneur who was born into poverty during 1902 worked tirelessly and turned one hundred dollars into a billion-dollar insurance company. He believed in some truths when it comes to business practices. One is doing things and being happy doing them. It makes the difference between good and great. He must have been right and happy as he lived to be one hundred years old. He also authored a book on leadership. I found this particular quote of his very apropos. “Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity.” To me this summarizes not only leadership, but the qualities that Dr. Jeremy Earle has brought to our table. He is not a “YES MAN.” Too often City Managers are more worried about job security and counting to three rather than doing the right thing for their cities. I do believe that if stars had not aligned with the hiring of the right City Manager, and the right City Commission was not on the Dais, our City would be in Chapter Nine Bankruptcy. This is not to spread fear but truth. You have heard it and it is true. A city, like all businesses, if it is not run properly, can go Bankrupt. Even before COVID-19 there were 69 Government Bankruptcies filed since 2010. Detroit, being the most notable. Dr. Jeremy Earle was tasked once again to right a ship and make our City solvent to avoid fiscal collapse. This City Commission, free from drama and united, embraced the no nonsense straight forward approach of Dr. Jeremy Earle. I must say. Do not mistake his “by the book manor” as a sign of indifference or lack of empathy. Quite the contrary. He is an analytical person, protector of the City, creative and genuinely cares for what is best for everyone that is concerned. And yes, he does listen to his bosses and to our community. He does what is right because it is right! Since he came on board, he has added new Staff Members to our City. This amazing group of public servants have created a five-year stability plan to rebuild. He led with the Motto “NO MORE KICKED CANS.” I joke once in a while and say “Kicked Cans down the road do not disappear, they just stack up at the end. Well, we were at the end of that road and started to address not one can, but all of them.” The journey began. A year later, we all were faced with the uncertainty of COVID-19. Next week, I will continue my State Of The City Address. As always, I am available for your questions, concerns and ideas to help make our City a better place. Please feel free to reach out to me at my Office: (954) 457-1318. On my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or Email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . < Previous News Next News >

Trick Or Treat - Where To Celebrate Halloween As An Adult In SoFlo October 18, 2024 Share As the air dips a few degrees, South Florida transforms into a vibrant tapestry of Halloween spookiness and the heartfelt celebrations of Día de Los Muertos. From haunted houses that thrill the bravest souls to colorful altars honoring departed loved ones, the region offers a unique blend of traditions and festivities. Whether you’re seeking spine-chilling adventures or cultural experiences filled with music, art, and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in SoFlo this October. Join us as we explore the best places to celebrate these iconic events and embrace the magic of the season! Fall Festival & Pumpkin House: Beginning Friday, October 18th through Sunday, October 20th, the hotel’s Bayside Terrace will transform into an immersive pumpkin paradise as the iconic property hosts its first ever Fall Festival & Pumpkin House. The family-friendly experience will feature pumpkin decorating, games such as pumpkin bowling and corn hole, and Fall-themed photo opps to capture the picture-perfect day. Attendees can also indulge in seasonal bites and beverages. Guests have the option to purchase a general admission ticket which includes one small pumpkin ($20 per person), or an all-inclusive ticket which includes one medium pumpkin and a draft of Sam Adams Octoberfest Beer ($40 per person). Each ticket grants a 90-minute time slot for admission. Tickets are available for purchase online through Miami Bucket Listers – https://bucketlisters.com/experience/fall-fest-and-pumpkin-house - For more information, visit: www.icmiamihotel.com/fall-fest. Howl-O-Ween Paws Patio: On Wednesday, October 23rd, pamper your pup to a special spooky edition of Paws Patio™ as InterContinental Miami hosts a Howl-O-Ween Doggie Contest. Get in the Halloween spirit on the Bayside Terrace from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., where dogs are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes for a chance to win paw-some prizes (and barking rights). The tail-waggin' good time is hosted by TourWithTeddy and includes free Puppuccinos and more fun surprises. InterContinental Miami is located at 100 Chopin Plaza, Miami, Florida 33131. For more information, please visit: www.icmiamihotel.com/play. Bulla Gastrobar: On Wednesday, October 30th from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Bulla Gastrobar is hosting a thrilling Masquerade Murder Mystery Prix Fixe dinner party at all locations. Guests will step into a world of suspense and intrigue as they play a role in unraveling a captivating crime. For just $100 per person, there will be a sumptuous multi-course dinner that begins with delectable appetizers, including Tabla Mixta featuring Tantilla, Manchego, Serrano Ham, Chorizo, Walnuts, and Olives, alongside a Classic Ensalada César. The main course is a delicious Paella Mixta, with Calamari, Clams, Shrimp, Chicken, Chorizo, Sofrito, and Saffron. To top off dinner, there will be delightful Churros Con Chocolate for dessert. For an additional $20 guests can have the chance to sip sangrias all night long. Bulla Gastrobar is located at 5335 Northeast 87th Avenue, Suite#: C102, Doral, Florida 33178; 2500 Ponce de Leon, Coral Gables, Florida 33134; and 8870 Southwest 136th Street, Suite#: RR01, Miami, Florida 33176. For more information about any location, please visit: https://bullagastrobar.com . Amelia’s 1931: For Halloween this year, guests have the opportunity to step back into 1931, where the bubbly is flowing and the night takes a dramatic turn. On Tuesday, October 29th at 7:00 p.m., Amelia’s 1931 will be taken over by mobsters; a gasp rings out, and suddenly… there’s a murder to solve. For $125 per person, bring your sharpest detective skills and biggest appetite to this immersive three-course dinner, brought to life by the creative minds of Chef Eileen Andrade and Culinary Director Vinnie Ortega. Enjoy thrilling twists, delicious bites, and drink pairings that will keep the intrigue alive all night long. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind Halloween event. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit: www.amelias1931.com . Amelia’s 1931 is located at 13601 Southwest 26 Street, Miami, Florida 33175. Telephone: (305) 554-4949. Follow on Social Media: @amelias1931. Toro Toro: Spooky season just got sweeter! This October, Sixty Vines invites guests on a Halloween candy and wine tasting adventure designed for the kid in all of us (21+ please). The restaurant, known for its eco-friendly wine on tap system, will offer rotating wine flights paired with classic Halloween candy for an all treats – no tricks pairing experience. Each week guests can discover a new varietal paired with candy classics, creating a fun and unique tasting experience with every visit this October. Wine and candy options will vary by week, but here are examples of the lineups: October 21st - October 31st: Cabernet Sauvignon – The bold flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon balanced with indulgent treats like Martin Ray ‘Synthesis’; with Twix, J Bookwalter ‘Notebook’ with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Chappellet ‘Mountain Cuvee’. The wine and candy pairings will rotate weekly throughout October at all Sixty Vines locations, ensuring there’s always something new to taste and experience. Sixty Vines Miami is located at Miami Worldcenter at 150 Northeast 8th Street, Suite#: 135, Miami, Florida 33132. The restaurant serves lunch, dinner, and brunch on Saturday and Sunday until 3:00 p.m. For more information, please visit: www.sixtyvines.com . Self-parking and valet parking are available. 511 Bar & Lounge: On Saturday, October 26th, Halloween enthusiasts can head over to 511 Bar & Lounge during the Las Olas Halloween Bar Crawl from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Get ready for an unforgettable night of drinks, dancing, and spooky fun. With your $25 ticket, you’ll gain entry to five (5) different bars on Las Olas Blvd, including 511 Bar & Lounge. Enjoy no cover charges, one free drink at each bar, exclusive food and drink specials, and a chance to win big in the costume contest. 511 Bar & Lounge is located at 511 Northeast 3rd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301. For more information, please visit: @LasOlasBarCrawl. And at: www.511bar.com Lona Cocina & Tequileria: Celebrate Halloween and Día de Los Muertos oceanside at Fort Lauderdale’s hottest Mexican eatery Lona Cocina & Tequileria. On Sunday, October 27th, Lona is kicking off the spooky celebrations early with a themed Ghostly Brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For $49++ per person, guests can enjoy bottomless beverages including Lona Margaritas, Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas, while indulging in live action stations including a Guacamole Bar, Tacos Station, Omelet & Waffle Stations, as well as special Halloween offerings. All kids under age 12 who arrive in costume will enjoy a complimentary brunch packed with spooky treats and festive delights. The festivities continue on Thursday, October 31st with a fang-tastic Halloween Noche Latinacelebration. Starting at 8:00 p.m., get into the spooky spirit with live DJ entertainment, select tacos for $5 each and signature Lona Margaritas for $10. Guests who dress to impress in costume will receive one complimentary Lona Margarita. In addition, from October 31st to November 2nd, imbibers can sip on a special Halloween themed cocktail – The Red Witch – featuring: Tequila, Mezcal, Orange Juice, Lime Juice and Hibiscus for $15. Reservations are encouraged and can be made online on OpenTable. Lona is located at The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort at 321 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. Discounted Valet Parking is available. For more information, visit: www.lonarestaurant.com ; Telephone: (954) 245-3069. Follow on Instagram: @lonarestaurantfll < Previous News Next News >

Concrete Ways to Prepare Kids for a Rapidly Changing World Thu Jun 06 2024 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Elevate Summer Entertaining with an Enjoyable Crunch By Family Features July 6, 2023 Share As families and friends gather on patios and decks to enjoy the warmth of summer and meals fresh off the grill, many are searching for that perfect ingredient that can complement salads, appetizers, main courses, desserts and more. This year, you can turn to pecans to elevate meals and give your guests something to rave about. Iconic for their flavor versatility - shining in a wide range of profiles from sweet and spicy to salty, smoky and savory - they're a tasty addition for favorite summertime recipes. From an enjoyable crunch to comforting creaminess and a satisfying chew, pecans deliver a perfect bite and texture. These Grilled Pork Chops with Peach Pecan Salsa, for example, are loaded with fresh flavors for an easy, nutritious warm-weather meal. Taste is just the beginning - pecans also pack a nutritious punch with a unique mix of health-promoting nutrients and bioactive compounds. Known for their rich, buttery consistency and naturally sweet taste, pecans have a longstanding tradition as a nut topping. They're sprinkled atop this Spiced Pecan Grilled Peach Salad with Goat Cheese for a refreshing seasonal salad with a nutty crunch. To find more recipes that take summer entertaining to the next level, visit www.EatPecans.com Grilled Pork Chops with Peach Pecan Salsa Cook time: 25 minutes Servings: 4 • 4 boneless pork loin chops (each 1-inch thick) • 3/4 teaspoon, plus 1/8 teaspoon, kosher salt, divided • freshly ground black pepper, to taste • 2 medium peaches, diced • 2/3 cup raw pecan pieces • 2 tablespoons red onion, diced • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil • 1 teaspoon minced jalapeno pepper • 2 teaspoons lime juice Season pork chops with 3/4 teaspoon salt and black pepper, to taste. Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill pork chops until browned, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook 5-6 minutes until food thermometer inserted in center registers 135 F. Transfer to plate and rest at least 5 minutes until internal temperature rises to 145-160 F. Gently stir peaches, pecans, onion, basil, jalapeno, lime juice and remaining salt. Add salsa on top of each pork chop with remaining salsa on side. Spiced Pecan Grilled Peach Salad with Goat Cheese Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 50 minutes Servings: 4 Spiced Pecans: • 1 large egg white • 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt • 2 cups pecan halves Salad: • 1/4 cup, plus 2 teaspoons, extra-virgin olive oil or pecan oil, divided • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder • 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt • pepper, to taste • 2 large peaches, halved and pits removed • 6 cups mixed baby greens (such as arugula, spring mix and spinach) • 4 ounces soft goat cheese To make spiced pecans: Preheat oven to 275 F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. In medium bowl, whisk egg white, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper and salt until well combined. Fold in pecans and mix until evenly coated in mixture. Spread in single layer on prepared baking sheet. Bake 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally until pecans are fragrant and golden brown. Allow to cool completely. To make salad: Heat grill to medium-high heat. In small bowl, whisk 1/4 cup olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt and pepper, to taste. Set aside. Brush cut sides of peach halves with remaining olive oil and grill until grill lines appear and peaches become tender, 3-5 minutes. Remove peaches and cut into slices. Divide greens among four plates. Top with grilled peach slices and goat cheese. Divide 1 cup spiced pecans evenly among salads and reserve remaining cup for snacking. Drizzle each salad with vinaigrette. < Previous News Next News >