Don’t Bow Down: America Is A Prison Disguised As Paradise Thu Feb 23 2023 17:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

8 Ways To Help Protect Your Vision Right Now By Feature Impact Jun 25, 2026 As You Get Older, Your Risk For Some Eye Diseases May Increase. However, There Are Steps You Can Take To Keep Your Eyes Healthy – And It Starts With Taking Care Of Your Overall Health. Set yourself up for a lifetime of seeing your best with these eight tips from the experts at the National Eye Institute in honor of Healthy Vision Month: 1. Find an eye doctor you trust. Many eye diseases don’t have any early symptoms, so you could have a problem and not know it. An eye doctor can help you stay on top of your eye health. Find an eye doctor you trust by asking friends and family if they like their doctors. You can also check with your health insurance plan to find eye doctors near you. 2. Ask how often you need a dilated eye exam. Getting a dilated eye exam is the single best thing you can do for your eye health. It’s the only way to find eye diseases early, when they’re easier to treat – and before they cause vision loss. Your eye doctor will decide how often you need an exam based on your risk for eye diseases. 3. Add more movement to your day. Physical activity can lower your risk for health conditions that can affect your vision, like Diabetes and High Blood Pressure. If you have trouble finding time for physical activity, try building it into other activities. Walk around while you’re on the phone, do push-ups or stretch while you watch TV or dance while you’re doing chores. Anything that gets your heart pumping counts. 4. Get your family talking about eye health history. Some eye diseases – like Glaucoma and age-related Macular Degeneration – can run in families. While it may not be the most exciting topic of conversation, talking about your family health history can help everyone stay healthy. The next time you’re chatting with relatives, ask if anyone knows about eye problems in your family. Be sure to share what you learn with your eye doctor to see if you need to take steps to lower your risk. 5. Step up your healthy eating game. Eating healthy foods helps prevent health conditions – like Diabetes or High Blood Pressure – that can put you at risk for eye problems. Eat right for your sight by adding more eye-healthy foods to your plate, such as dark, leafy greens like Spinach, Kale and Collard Greens, and fish high in Omega-3 Fatty Acids like Halibut, Salmon or Tuna. 6. Make a habit of wearing your sunglasses – even on cloudy days. The sun’s UV rays can not only harm your skin, but the same goes for your eyes. However, wearing sunglasses that block 99-100% of both UVA and UVB radiation can protect your eyes and lower your risk for cataracts. 7. Stay on top of long-term health conditions like Diabetes and High Blood Pressure. Diabetes and High Blood Pressure can increase your risk for some eye diseases, like Glaucoma. If you have Diabetes or High Blood Pressure, ask your doctor about steps you can take to manage your condition and lower your risk of vision loss. 8. If you smoke, make a plan to quit. Quitting smoking is good for your entire body, including your eyes. Kicking the habit can help lower your risk for eye diseases like Macular Degeneration and Cataracts. Quitting smoking is hard, but it’s possible – and a plan can help. Test your eye health knowledge with a quick quiz and find more vision resources at: https://nei.nih.gov/hvm . Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Many eye diseases don’t have any early symptoms. Scan The QR Code: Test your eye health knowledge with a quick quiz and find more vision resources Previous Next

Medicare Fraud: Beware of Scammers Offering Older Americans In-Home Perks Thu Sep 19 2024 16:13:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Sigh Of Relief: Hallandale High School Progress And Changes By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper March 22, 2024 Share A few weeks ago, I wrote to our readers about changes that were taking place in Broward County Schools. There was a sigh of relief that they were not closing Hallandale High School. This did not mean their work re-defining our schools stopped. Dr. Licata made it clear to all stakeholders that in fact everything was on the table. There could still be closed, combined schools, reproduced schools, investments in partnerships between cities and the school board, Mayor and all stakeholders have a task with making suggestions on the possibilities. The following is a letter that I submitted with a list of observations that I had gleaned from visiting all the schools and centers within the community. I had a chance to speak with many individuals about their ideas and suggestions. The work of the School Board will continue and we all need to keep an eye on their progress and changes. I want to thank you for your generosity of time during this process. While under-enrolled schools partially prompted the discussion I understand there are many other factors that have impacted our district. I commend you and the board for taking these bold steps to address vital needs to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. I know we have discussed many of the items below but wanted to at least document them. There will always be opportunities to partner on many levels. I have discussed housing opportunities at GELC, and you mentioned opportunities at Lanier. The other is with HACC fields, but I am not certain if our own budget restraints or commission policy could support partnership investments there. Through my conversations at schools and with other stakeholders I wanted to make sure you and the board know from my observations what is lacking and what is envisioned. Programming is important and may be beneficial on a financial level as well. As long as it is in the right place and managed properly. Hallandale High School: Upgrades, Additional Programming and After-hours use. The school was slated to be rebuilt and the state stopped funding. While we all know that education for students and teaching staff is the top priority, school buildings matter. School buildings create a place of pride for students, teachers and the community. The piecemeal improvements over the years are great but some are still not complete. The school does not have proper Baseball Fields. The Football Field needs upgrades that are found at other schools. The school has lost many sports programs due to this. Parking lots are shabby. Stakeholders think the single point entry is good but could be embellished to make the entry more appealing. While these items are not critical they are important to build pride and make the school welcoming. Before I cover suggestions on programs I would like to share a global observation. “Every” principal and parent I have had a chance to speak with supports uniforms 100%. The key component was the time consumed over discipline issues over clothing. This takes administration and teachers away from their key goal of education and safety. School uniforms create a point of pride, respect, discipline, remove inappropriate distractions and create a springboard of being part of something greater than oneself. The argument of letting someone be able to express their uniqueness should be through class education and activity not clothing. In fact, bullying will always be taking place, but implementing a Countywide policy for all students will certainly help to preempt some harassment and shaming. Magnet programs serve a purpose and are a great option for focused studies, but they seem to have caused more competition among regular schools when they already face challenges from charters and choice. The way magnets are established, funded, and teachers are hired is not always maintainable. Stakeholders would like to see more training programs that will develop job skills and ability to join the workforce. I have heard many times that not all students are suitable for or can afford college. Automotive, Electrical, Plumbing, Carpentry, Computer Skills and other trades could be offered. These courses could be given at existing schools during and/or after hours. They could be combined with GED Courses and Language Courses. Leaving school resources idle after the school day ends is not a good use for an existing school. Graduation is paramount and those students wanting and able to further their education by attending college should also be given every opportunity and access to resources found in every private school. The rest of this correspondence will be published next week, better! As always feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City better! I can be reached at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or: joycooper@aol.com . Or Facebook Mayor Joy Cooper. You can always call my Office number at: (954) 457-1318. Or Call/Text me at: (954) 632-5700. Working for you! Always have! Always will! < Previous News Next News >

A Night At The Pops: Florida’s Oldest LGBT Wind Ensemble Crowns A Successful Season Thu Apr 13 2023 16:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Italy's Renowned Venchi ChocoGelateria: Announces Opening of New Boutique At Aventura Mall Showcasing Innovative Chocoviar Wall Tue Aug 15 2023 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

2023 Home Rule Hero Award: Commissioner Jeniffer Viscarra & Commissioner Fabiola Stuyvesant Recognized For Advocacy Efforts www.sibfl.net May 24, 2023 Share The Florida League of Cities (FLC), the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments, recently recognized City of Sunny Isles Beach Commissioners Jeniffer Viscarra & Commissioner Fabiola Stuyvesant with a 2023 Home Rule Hero Award for their hard work and advocacy efforts during the 2023 Legislative Session. Viscarra & Stuyvesant worked tirelessly throughout the session to promote local voices making local choices, protect the Home Rule powers of Florida’s municipalities and advance the League’s Legislative Agenda. “The League and its Legislative Team appreciate the individual advocacy efforts undertaken by municipal officials throughout the state,” said FLC Chief of Legislative Affairs Casey Cook. “Home Rule Heroes are some of our biggest advocates for protecting local decision-making. They are League Members who stand out for their high level of participation, knowledge, and effectiveness. This year’s Home Rule Heroes continuously advocated for their communities throughout the 2023 Legislative Session.” Home Rule is the ability for a city to address local problems with local solutions with minimal state interference. Home Rule Hero Award Recipients are local Government Officials, both elected and non-elected, who consistently responded to the League’s request to reach out to members of the Legislature and help give a local perspective on an issue. Viscarra says “I am so grateful for this unexpected recognition, and I hope that through education and guidance, our local and state residents become more civically engaged (dare I say empowered) and thoughtful voters.” In addition to serving on the Florida League of Cities Advocacy Committee, Viscarra has been an advocate for engaging and educating Sunny Isles Beach residents throughout her tenure. Through her Residents’ Academy Program Initiative, she has worked to educate the electorate on the workings of Municipal Government, encouraging students to get involved in the State Legislature as it relates to Home Rule Issues and how those decisions impact our Local Government. Stuyvesant says, “It is a great honor to be recognized by the League, and I look forward to furthering our legislative priorities. When it comes to municipal home rule there is no substitute for victory.” Stuyvesant traveled to Washington DC as part of the FLC Federal Action Strike Team (FAST) and for the Congressional City Conference, ensuring local voices are heard on Capitol Hill. Throughout her tenure as a City of Sunny Isles Beach Commissioner, Stuyvesant has continued to advocate for our residents of all ages, addressing overcrowding at our local K-8 school and appealing to the State of Florida to include Sunny Isles Beach as part of the State Attorney’s Human Trafficking Task Force. Viscarra’s advocacy of Home Rule Issues does not stop at the Commission Dais or in her Resident’s Academy Classroom. She has designed and developed her own community newsletter entitled “SIB AJENDA,” a purposeful misspelling of agenda as a nod to the author. In this publication, she shares objective insight on both Local and Statewide Issues that are important to our constituents. When action needs to be taken, she encourages readers to write to their State Legislators and provides contacts and sample letters. As a Liaison for the Charter Review Commission, she guided Committee Members through the process of updating the City’s Constitution. This integral role educated residents on the authority within the purview of the city and how it properly functions as a governmental body. Throughout Viscarra’s tenure as a City of Sunny Isles Beach Commissioner, and as a resident and voter in the State of Florida, she has truly earned her Home Rule Hero Award for 2023, dedicating professional and personal time to not only advocate but also educate our public on the importance of Home Rule Issues. As she has said in her “SIB AJENDA,” she hopes her education translates into action. She is definitely doing her part, and then some. < Previous News Next News >

Anne Being Frank In Aventura - Reimagines Iconic Story To Pose Philosophical Questions In This The One-Woman Play Thu Oct 31 2024 16:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Happy New Year And Reflections On Cuba Part 2 By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper December 30, 2024 Share Many of you may be conducting your year in review, making New Year's Resolutions or simply taking part in annual New Year traditions, whatever they may be 2024 is coming to a close. Enjoy your New Year celebrations responsibly. My hope as your Mayor and neighbor is that you enter into the New Year with peace, love, hope and joy. Welcome 2025! As we reflect, I continue with my reflections of my trip to Cuba. Once we left the revolutionary square we went straight to Havana’s seaside and what is called the Malecon. This is a famous 5-mile seawall and roadway along the Havana Harbour area of Cuba. It was built in 1902. There is a mix of crumbled buildings with Spanish marble fronts left standing and shabby homes. Mixed between are inhabitable buildings that are unkempt. There are modern styled buildings built in the 1960’s with help from Russia. It was explained that the government owns everything. Many apartment buildings are unkempt as the many owners cannot afford to care for the outside or simply are not motivated since they are government controlled. There are some homes that still are family owned and continue upkeep with earned money or outside sources. Even these homes lack painting and maintenance. Eighty-five percent of the Cuban population lives in poverty. Ownership is controlled by proof of family deeds. They can be passed on, but the government can step in to take property over. When the revolution came many wealthy families kept their homes and commercial properties. While the U.S. placed sanctions on Cuba for over 50 years other countries continued trade. The most recent Trump sanctions are now impacting those ties. Properties that are collapsing, people leave or kicked out with no guarantee of a replacement. The building debris has been left in place. In one area on the Malecon a building was left and a plaza with a sculpture was put in its place. While it was beautiful to me it showed the contrast and the deep propaganda that suggests all is well. We are informed some people wait for up to ten years or more for a place to live. There are hotels mixed in along the Malecon. Tourism is one of their biggest industries. The Government is allowing the building of new hotels alongside new apartment buildings. We were told that the building has taken years and still is not complete. While United States citizens cannot freely go as tourists, other countries can and do. Still the communist government controls everything. So, what they give they can take away. We were all amazed by the Spanish architect that was still in place. It takes you back to a time when Cuba was a major gateway to the Americas. The Spanish influence on architecture is from years of Spanish control dating back from Columbus, from 1492 until 1868. 1868-1878 the people began to rise against Spain in revolt of taxation and slavery. The first led to a truce with Spain and the abolition of slavery but fell short of the promised reforms. The second was led and inspired by Jose Marti 1895 -98. Jose Marti, as I explained, is considered the father of the country that never supported Socialism or Communism. His ideology felt close to the Independence of America. The United States assisted and led the Spanish- American and in 1898 occupied the country until the Platt amendment in 1902. The country was free and developed its own constitution including the right to work and healthcare. Sadly, it was never stable. The first President Machado became a dictator. There were multiple revolts and coupes of presidents. Batista was the most infamous. Even though he lost his reelection bid he became one of the most notorious cruel Dictators using his military control and remained having profound influence until Castro led the next revolution. As they say, the rest is history. In this case, a dark history of Communism. The irony in it all was that our government supported Batista since he was opposed to Communism. They withdrew that support when the rebels led by Guevara took the upper hand in a decisive blow against Batista. Castro took over and set up a provisional government. Rather than elections he took full control over everything. He rounded up Batista to support many who were tried and executed. He created a Communist government with ties to the Soviet Union. Many Cubans fled the country. Some went to Spain. Other refugees went to South and Central America. Many fled to Miami and others to New Jersey. You read right. New Jersey’s Union City became Havana on the Hudson. Cubans always have and will remain to have ties to the United States. Many Cubans strive for a Cuba Libre. As we drove on our way to visit The National Hotel we passed the closed American Embassy. As I shared before the Embassy was reopened when Obama was in office. With the opening there was renewed hope in Havana and the country due to tourism. Directly across the courtyard of the Embassy of a propagandizing statue of Jose Marti holding Elian Gonzalez. Irony is that Elian’s mother, like many Cubans, died to bring him here. Jose Marti never supported communism. He is standing pointing a finger at the embassy and shielding Elian from the United States. The National Hotel is a magnificent building overlooking the Malecon. It resembles Hotels like Biltmore and Breakers. It also has just as much if not more history. It has been visited by many dignitaries, stars, and world-renowned musical talents, over the past one hundred years. It is a World Heritage site. It is owned by the government and sadly like many other buildings not maintained. The hotel is also well known from the movie Godfather where the famous scene was shot about the Italian Mob. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit me on my Facebook page at Mayor Joy Cooper. Like, follow, and share. < Previous News Next News >

Holy Cross Health Announces $6.5 Million Gift Thu Oct 31 2024 17:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Florida's Most 'Sustainable Suburb' - Coral Gables Is Crowned As having The Most Eco-Friendly Vibes Wed Dec 18 2024 18:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Getting Ready For The Jewish Holidays: Looking Good For The Fall With New Designer Eyewear & Trendy Fragrances September 14, 2023 Share As the High Holidays approach, let Brand International Perfume help you enhance your style, find the perfect fragrance, and prepare for a season of joy and celebration. Rosh Hashanah, which spans from September 15th to 17th, and Yom Kippur, observed on September 24th and 25th, are not only a time for reflection and spiritual renewal but also an occasion for family gatherings and celebration. After a time that saw many separated from family and confined to their homes, there's a collective yearning to dress up, embrace tradition, and share joy with loved ones. To ensure you look and feel your best during these special days, it's time to bid farewell to those pandemic sweatpants of the past and explore the world of new designer eyewear and trendy fragrances. When it comes to upgrading your style for the High Holidays, Brand International Perfume in Hallandale Beach is your ultimate destination. This renowned establishment understands the significance of the High Holidays, that G-d grants us a good & sweet year. With that in mind Jacqueline of Brand International has curated special offerings for September that encompass the latest in eyewear and fragrances. At Brand International Perfume, every member of your family is sure to find something they adore. Upon entering the store, you'll be greeted by a friendly and knowledgeable team, handpicked by the owner, Jacqueline Kels. Over the years, Brand International Perfume has earned a stellar reputation as the go-to place for thoughtful gifts for all occasions, and the High Holidays are no exception. Ample parking ensures your shopping experience is both convenient and enjoyable. Fragrance Expertise At Your Fingertips The scent you wear is an extension of your identity, and finding the perfect fragrance can be a challenge. However, Brand International Perfume's fragrance experts are here to simplify the process. This month, you can enjoy substantial discounts on a wide range of fragrances, making it easier than ever to discover a signature scent that resonates with you. Whether you prefer a classic, timeless fragrance or a modern, trendy one, the knowledgeable staff at Brand International Perfume will guide you to the scent that truly defines you. In addition to your own fragrance, you can explore an array of beautifully wrapped gift sets that are perfect for special occasions. With such fantastic deals, you'll leave the store smelling great and fully prepared for the High Holidays. Hard-To-Find And Out-Of-Stock Treasures If you're searching for that elusive fragrance from your favorite designer, Brand International Perfume is the place to be this September. Jacqueline Kels and her team are dedicated to sourcing rare and out-of-stock fragrances, ensuring that you have access to the scents you love. Their commitment to customer satisfaction knows no bounds, and they take pride in fulfilling your unique fragrance desires. Designer Eyewear: Elevate Your Look In the realm of eyewear, Brand International Perfume is equally impressive. Jacqueline and her team have curated a stunning collection of fashionable eyewear in the latest styles. Whether you're inspired by a friend's eyeglasses or spotted a pair in a magazine that caught your eye, Jacqueline will help you find the perfect frames that suit your personality and style. Your eyeglasses are more than just a vision aid; they're a fashion statement. Brand International Perfume carries a diverse range of designer brand name sunglasses and frames, including Vera Wang, Prada, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry, Oakley, Ray-Ban, Dior, Tiffany, Versace, and many more. With such an extensive selection, you'll effortlessly discover eyeglass frames that enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. Quality And Affordability Unite What sets Brand International Perfume apart is its commitment to customer satisfaction. They aim to provide customers with exceptional value, offering designer fragrances and eyewear at unbeatable prices. High-end fragrances that typically retail for $150, $200, or even $300, such as Creed and Flower Bomb by Victor & Rolf, can be found at significant discounts. This commitment to affordability, combined with their diverse selection, makes Brand International Perfume a shopping haven for those seeking quality and savings. Jacqueline and her staff have mastered the art of customer service, ensuring that each visit is a delightful experience. Whether you're searching for Maison Francis, Kurkdjian Paris, Amouage, Montale, Juliette Has A Gun, or any other top fragrance brand, Brand International Perfume has you covered. With over two decades of experience, their team can effortlessly match your style and budget, ensuring that you leave the store satisfied. Visit Brand International Perfume Brand International Perfume is conveniently located at 121 Northeast 3rd Street, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. If you're short on time, give Jacqueline a call at: (954) 457-1969. Or for those outside the state, reach out at: 1 (800) 689-1969. With their extensive selection and tremendous savings, it's highly likely that you'll find your favorite fragrance at an unbeatable price. Plus, they offer UPS shipping across the entire USA, so you can shop with ease from anywhere in the country. < Previous News Next News >