A Miracle of Faith: Heleni Ezra’s Incredible Journey February 14, 2025 Share Eight months ago, Heleni Ezra faced the unthinkable. A tragic accident left her fighting for her life, and doctors gave her no chance of surviving beyond a few hours. It was a moment of profound sorrow, a time when hope seemed all but lost. But as the news of her condition spread, something extraordinary began to unfold something that would defy medical expectations and inspire all who witnessed it. For 321 consecutive nights, hundreds of people gathered outside the hospital, lifting their voices in prayer. Strangers became family, united by faith and a shared belief in the power of divine intervention. Their prayers, filled with love and unwavering devotion, created a force stronger than despair. They asked for a miracle, and against all odds, a miracle began to take shape. 257 days later, Heleni is still with us. She is home, stable, and making remarkable progress. Though she remains in a coma, her body and spirit continue to fight. Each small movement, each sign of improvement, is a reminder that the human will combined with the grace of God ”knows no limits. Heleni’s journey is more than a story of survival; it is a testament to the power of prayer, the strength of community, and the boundless hope that carries us through even the darkest times. Her fight is not over, but neither is our faith. We continue to stand with her, to believe in her healing, and to witness the beauty of a miracle unfolding before our eyes. May Heleni’s story remind us all that with faith, love, and perseverance, anything is possible. Local 10 news reporter Rosh Lowe had covered Heleni's story in August 2024, visit: https://youtu.be/PKl7IcakDF4?si=bqad9zlN0EGMO2Yf < Previous News Next News >

Hop Aboard South Florida: Brightline Celebrates A Historic Moment Thu Jul 06 2023 16:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Musical Blockbusters: Coming To Reignite The Theatrical Scene Thu Sep 16 2021 04:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Free Swim Lessons For Kids: YMCA of South Florida Receives $150,000 Grant Fri May 24 2024 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Making Strides Walkathon - Together We Can Help Fund the Future of Breast Cancer Research By Ira Liebowitz November 15, 2024 Share A sea of 25,000 people, many clad in pink, converged at an arena in Sunrise, Florida, recently to celebrate the Making Strides walkathon, a tradition in Florida and across the country to help thwart the deadly disease, Breast Cancer. Presented by Seminole Hard Rock, the event took place on a crisp, drizzly morning at the Amerant Bank Arena, home of the 2023 Stanley Cup champion ice hockey team, the Florida Panthers. The event ran concurrently with the Susan G. Komen More Than Pink Walk in Hialeah, Florida, according to CBS News Miami where more than 6,000 people attended. The goal for fundraising was to raise $1,000,000 and $700,000, respectively. To date, more than $500,000 was raised in Hialeah, Florida. Making Strides began shortly after 8 a.m. with a vibrant rendition of our National Anthem sung by a local music sensation.” Whereby many in the audience held their hands over their hearts. The emcees were Channel Seven’s Meteorologist Vivian Gonzales and Hard Rock Classic Casino General Manager Edward Aguilar who thanked all participants and organizers as well as supplied facts pertaining to Breast Cancer. Representatives from the medical field included The Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center Miller Branch at University of Miami, the Cleveland Clinic and Hollywood Memorial Hospital. Mr. Aguilar took to the microphone, “Together, while we have no cure yet, we have a lot of hope, and we have an unconquered spirit to continue the fight with you. Today would not be possible without all the help of the volunteers today and all the amazing organizations.” Here are pertinent facts: About 42,000 women in the United States die each year of Breast Cancer. It affects one in eight U.S. women. It’s estimated that more than 160,000 cases of Cancer are diagnosed in Florida alone, and that Breast Cancer is the number one form of Cancer of Native Americans, according to Mr. Aguilar. It is estimated that more than 23,000 in Florida alone will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer this year, of which 3,000 will die. Breast Cancer is rare in men, accounting for about 1% of all Breast Cancer diagnoses. In the United States, about 2,650 men are diagnosed with Breast Cancer each year. Breast Cancer deaths have declined 40% in the past few decades. 2024 marks the 26th Annual Walkathon in Broward County, this year's Making Strides of Broward County was presented by: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood, Seminole Classic Casino, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek, along with other sponsors. This is the 12th year Seminole Hard Rock has participated in the Broward Making Strides event. On this 2024 walk they presented a grandiose check—literally, a four-foot-long check--on stage for a grand sum, $100,000. Hard Rock venues present were Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Seminole Classic Casino, and Coconut Creek Seminole Casino. Several companies and teams were thanked for generous donations. Teams that raise $2,500 or more, collectively, become members of the Pacesetters Team Club. Individuals who raise $1,000 or more are Grand Club members. "We Believe that no people should have to fight Breast Cancer alone." -- American Cancer Society The Florida Panthers General Manager Bill Zito said, “Today is a day of fight, of commemorating the survivors and is also a day of thanks,” adding that his wife is a Cancer survivor. He extended a thank you to doctors, nurses, caregivers, family members and “to survivors for inspiring us.” Mr. Zito sashayed a bit, modeling a custom-made jersey which is to be auctioned off to raise funds for ACS. Three top doctors via a news bulletin illuminate us as to Breast Cancer: Susan Kesmodel, M.D., of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center noted, “We are seeing a de-escalation of surgery for Breast Cancer. In many women with early-stage Breast Cancer, mastectomy is not necessary. She added: • Surgeons increasingly look for options besides Mastectomy for Breast Cancer. • Breast Cancer surgery is not one-size-fits-all but is increasingly tailored to the patient based on extent of the disease and tumor characteristics. • Cosmetic surgery has improved dramatically. Women can now receive Breast Reconstruction during Cancer surgery with Lumpectomy (removal of Breast Tissue) or Mastectomy (removal of entire Breast(s). --Susan Kesmodel, M.D., is Director of Breast Surgery Oncology at Sylvester and co-leader of the Breast Site Disease Group. Mentioned Jose M. Net, M.D., “Routine Mammographic Screening is the best way to minimize your chance of dying of Breast Cancer. Early detection can help find tumors that are smaller, haven’t spread outside the breast and are easier to treat.” He added: • Patients need to know their breast density, one indicator of increased Cancer risk. The FDA now requires that patients receive this information. Sylvester has provided it for 13 years. --Dr. Jose Net is the Vice Chair of Clinical Operations and Director of Division of Breast Imaging at Sylvester. Lluis Morey, Ph.D., member of Sylvester’s Epigenetics Program and Associate Professor at the Human Genetics Department at University of Miami noted: • Of a handful of Breast Cancer variants, most are not aggressive and have a 90% survival rate due to treatment. Early detection is key. • Understanding stem cells is important because if you identify and kill them, you might stop a tumor from growing. • Breast Cancer deaths have declined 40% in the past decade, but a mortality gap persists between Black and White women - a priority for Sylvester in highly diverse South Florida. • Sylvester performs 31,000 Mammograms annually. At Making Strides, a pink air-filled oversized chair provided a happy repast as kids of all ages bounced, flounced and even jounced—yes, that’s a word! —on it. Many attendees tacked messages onto a display to honor loved ones affected by Cancer. Music of the day was provided by four gentlemen who makeup - their name well suits the day — The Cure. Public Relations Personnel Amanda Jackson and Kimberly Pierce cheerfully filled us in as to Hard Rock involvement. For instance, did you know that Hard Rock has raised over $12 million for Breast Cancer Research since the start of its PINKTOBER campaign. In 2023 alone, Hard Rock raised $1.3 Million for Breast Cancer Research. • Has cafes that offer a tempting hamburger on a pink bun infused with (yes, really!) beet juice. They say it’s healthy. “A burger with a cause.” • Has “change for change,” whereby one can donate a portion of winnings from the casino to ACS and other charities. • Is donating 25 “all-inclusive” stays at their hotel to Breast Cancer survivors, thrivers and caregivers. • Offers a pink record of Inspirational songs from “all around the world.” It can be purchased for about $35. All proceeds go to ACS. • Has pink guitars which can be checked out. • Made their mantra, “Stronger together.” Amanda Jackson is Vice-President of Global Field Marketing for Hard Rock Hotels. Kimberly Pierce is Director of Community Affairs for Global Field Marketing. Though not officially permitted at Making Strides, many of our four-legged friends tagged along with their owners. These included “Osita,” a Brown Husky; Luca, an Australian Shepherd; and Lagertha, looks like a bulldog—ages 4 years, 18 months and 1.5 years, respectively. This reporter walked in memory of his beloved kind, loving, irreplaceable doggie, Daisy, who joined him for about seven Walk-a-thons for Charity. I would like to thank ACS Senior Development Manager Jessica Kramer for these kind words: “I’m sorry to hear about the passing of your beloved Siberian Husky, Daisy. It’s wonderful that you plan to honor her spirit during the upcoming walk.” Indeed, my canine friend was missed by many. Volunteer comments: “Proud to be part of the ACS Making Strides. We look forward to many more years. --Sara Gaitan and Evelyn Valdes—Dade County Federal Credit Union “Very nice event with a lot of great people.” --L. Bell, Sunrise Police Department. “We work in support of those we lost to Cancer and hope to find a cure.” --Lorena Bonilla Valle-- mother of Making Strides Coordinator Angelic Mercer and General Manager for Equipment Share Miami. “Volunteer drivers like Kamina drive patients to and from treatment. Join today.” -- Spokeswoman from Road to Recovery Program “This is our 12th year supporting the ACS Making Strides. Every year continues to get better as we hunt for a cure.” -- Member of Seminole Indian Tribe and General Manager of Seminole Classic Casino, Edward Aguilar “Over 10-plus years I’ve been supporting the movement, and it keeps getting bigger and better. Making Strides is such a huge movement in the fight to end Breast Cancer. I’m incredibly blessed and look forward to being a part of it.” --WSVN Meteorologist Vivian Gonzales. By the way, best wishes to Vivian who is expecting her baby to be delivered soon at Hollywood Memorial Hospital. “So many people’s lives have been touched by Cancer. On the positive side, so many people pour their hearts into empathizing with and helping those in need. This is true regarding Breast Cancer and other diseases, as well as for natural disasters such as hurricanes. It’s a wakeup call to remind us how precious life is. –Ira Liebowitz Leading up to the walk, Memorial Healthcare System presented a Men Wear Pink fashion show at the Hard Rock on August 29. Robert Soto, a speaker there noted, “We’re attending this event in celebration of our son, Kyle Soto and the Cancer survivors everywhere. Kyle is a Lymphoma survivor, and it became obvious that we need more funding and research for Cancer. You can follow Kyle at Kyle Soto Underwater Photography on Instagram.” I wish to thank Steve Maugeri of the CBS News Miami Team, and University of Miami Miller School of Medicine for taking time to send me information for the event. Also, thanks to Angelic Mercer, Jessica Kramer, Senior Development Manager and ACS staff partner, and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and Global Public Relations for input to this article. Also, thanks to Cat and the Sun Times staff, Craig Farquhar and Cecile Hiles for all their help. Florda Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz attended the event and was a part of the official ribbon cutting to start the walk. As of October 22, $945,000 has been raised for Making Strides. Donations to the More than Pink Walk presently totaled $500,000 as of October 22. Reasons You Should Make Time For a Mammogram: • Breast Cancer Affects 1 in 8 American Woman • Regular Mammograms increase your breast cancer survival rate by 30% • A mammogram takes 30 minutes • Self-Exams aren't enough - Mammograms can detect a lump 2 years before you can feel one • More than 40,000 woman lose their lives to breast cancer annually • It's the #1 most common cancer in women Donations can be made online at: www.makingstrideswalk.org/browardfl, donations for the walk are accepted through December 20. You can also, donate via “snail mail”: Make your check to: American Cancer Society, noting MSAB Broward American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Broward EBK2K6 Post Office Box#: 17127 Tampa, Florida 33682. • $10 connects a survivor to resources through the Cancer Survivor's Network. • $50 provides a night of free lodging for a patient receiving treatment far from home. • $100 covers transportation to treatment for someone without access. For more information, visit: www.makingstrideswalk.org/browardfl To see photos from the event, visit: https://issuu.com/suntimesnewspaper/docs/sun_times_11.07.24_webst/9?fr=sZmFlNDc5NDY1MzI https://issuu.com/suntimesnewspaper/docs/sun_times_11.07.24_webst/12?fr=sN2QyNjc5NDY1MzM < Previous News Next News >

Inside The Brain: South Florida PBS Health Channel Explores Memory, Resilience, And Mental Health In New Special Programming South Florida Sun Times May 14, 2026 The South Florida PBS Health Channel Is Bringing The Conversation Around Brain Health And Mental Well-Being To The Forefront With Two Powerful Programs: The Resilient Brain And Memory & The Mind: What Science Tells Us About Brain Health Town Hall. Together, These Specials Explore The Science Of The Brain While Offering Meaningful Insight Into How Mental Health Is Shaped, Supported, And Strengthened Throughout Life. The Resilient Brain is a compelling documentary that dives into the extraordinary adaptability of the human brain. Through the voices of scientists, patients, and families, the film reveals how the brain responds to trauma, Neurological Disease, and life’s most complex challenges. From Veterans recovering from traumatic brain injuries to children with rare neurological conditions and older adults navigating Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s, the documentary highlights resilience as both a biological and emotional force. As the film underscores, understanding the brain is key to understanding ourselves. As Dr. Ken Miller of Columbia University’s Zuckerman Mind, Brain & Behavior Institute notes, “If you want to understand who we are, then you want to understand the brain.” This perspective is echoed throughout the documentary, with experts emphasizing both the mystery and promise of Neuroscience. Dr. James Galvin of the University of Miami adds, “The next great mystery to be solved is why the brain does what it does, why people develop diseases of the brain and what we can do to make a difference.” The documentary also reinforces the importance of prevention and lifestyle in maintaining Brain and Mental Health. “If you’re trying to prevent Dementia, manage your Vascular Health: manage your Blood Pressure, your Cholesterol, your Thyroid Disease, your Obesity, your diet, your exercise—all of that,”explains Dr. Raphael Wald, Neuropsychologist at Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care. These insights highlight how closely Physical Health and Mental Well-Being are intertwined. Viewers are also reminded of the personal impact of Brain Science. As Dr. Nicole Baganz of FAU’s Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute shares, “Understanding the Brain Science helped me understand myself and my family.” Meanwhile, Dr. Gavin Rumbaugh of the Wertheim UF Scripps Institute points to the field’s rapid evolution: “I think we’re now where Cancer Biology was 25 years ago.” Complementing the documentary, Memory & the Mind: What Science Tells Us About Brain Health Town Hall brings together leading experts for an engaging and informative discussion on memory, cognitive aging, and brain resilience. Hosted by Pam Giganti, the town hall features: • Daphna Shohamy, PhD – Director & CEO, Zuckerman Institute, Columbia University • Paul Kenny, PhD – Director, The Friedman Brain Institute, Mount Sinai Health System, NY • Vidhya Rangaraju, PhD – Research Group Leader, Rangaraju Lab, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience During the discussion, experts emphasize the unprecedented pace of discovery in Brain Science. “We by far know more now than we ever did before, and it’s a time of rapid expansion of knowledge and an enormous amount of discovery,” says Dr. Shohamy. The town hall also focuses on actionable steps people can take to support their Brain and Mental Health. “It’s hard to overstate the positive impact of exercise on Brain Function,” notes Dr. Paul Kenny, while Dr. Vidhya Rangaraju highlights the critical role of rest: “Sleep is very important. It’s important to consolidate memories, clear waste, and recharge the mitochondria so that brain cells can be healthy.” As Mental Health continues to be a national priority, these programs provide viewers with both knowledge and empowerment, connecting cutting-edge neuroscience with everyday actions that support emotional and cognitive well-being. Stream The Resilient Brain and Memory & the Mind: What Science Tells Us About Brain Health Town Hall at: https://AllHealthTV.com . About the Health Channel: AllHealthGo is South Florida PBS’ exciting new digital health media venture that is building a trusted source of health and wellness information for consumers hungry for information and understanding. Through AllHealthGo’s Health Channel, the only 24/7 health and wellness TV channel in the country, we connect you with Medical and Well-Being specialists in real-time, promoting healthier lifestyle options. In partnership with prestigious organizations, the service aims to empower you with the most up-to-date information, enabling you to take more control of your and your family’s health. To complement the live interactions with medical and well-being specialists, AllHealthGo offers a robust companion digital platform that provides access to specialized services. Previous Next

Conspirators For The Constitution: When Anti-Government Speech Becomes Sedition Thu Jun 08 2023 16:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Take A Drive This Labor Day: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Voted As The Top Pick For Labor Day Fun Thu Aug 31 2023 16:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Moss Center Presents Classic Albums Live: Lynryd Skynyrd's "Pronounced 'Leh-'nerd 'Skin-'nerd" Aventura Digest Sep 17, 2026 The Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center Invites The Audiences To Immerse Themselves In An Evening Of Southern Rock With Classic Albums Live: Lynyrd Skynyrd - "Pronounced 'Leh-'nerd 'Skin-'nerd," On Saturday, September 19th, 2026 At 8:00 p.m. Tickets Are Available At: www.MossCenter.org . Classic Albums Live faithfully recreates the landmark recording, note-for-note and cut-for-cut, delivering an authentic concert experience that celebrates the artistry and energy of the original album. Fans will lose themselves in timeless anthems - including "Tuesday's Gone," "Gimme Three Steps," and the epic "Free Bird" performed with extraordinary precision and passion. Featuring the powerhouse musicians of Classic Albums Live, Lead Guitarist and Vocalist Shain Allen Honkonen, the production captures the spirit of the Jacksonville collective, tinged with the soulful storytelling of the legendary record. Released in 1973, "Pronounced 'Leh-'nerd 'Skin-'nerd" is a quintessential masterpiece of Southern rock that exploded onto the scene, peaking at 27 on the Billboard 200 and establishing Lynyrd Skynyrd as an institution all their own. The band's meteoric rise came to an abrupt end with the 1977 plane crash that killed singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and vocalist Cassie Gaines. Following the accident, the group did not perform for ten years. Lynyrd Skynyrd was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2006. Classic Albums Live, founded by Craig Martin in 2003, is famous for their uncanny recreations of rock and roll's most celebrated albums. Touring across North America and UK, the masters of their craft perform more than 200 shows each year, delighting fans of all ages and tastes. This Classic Albums Live show marks the third in the Moss Center's lineup of fan favorites, such as "Eagles: Their Greatest Hits" in July and Guns N' Roses: "Appetite for Destruction" in August. Classic Albums Live: Lynyrd Skynyrd - "Pronounced 'Leh-'nerd 'Skin-'nerd" is recommended for ages 13 and older. Ticket prices range from $45-$55. VIP tickets are available for $65 and include table seating and complimentary wine, beer, or soft drink. To purchase your tickets, visit: www.MossCenter.org . Stop by the Moss Center Box Office in person. Or call: (786) 573-5300. This project is support in part by the National Endowment for Arts. To find out more about how National Endowment for Arts grants impact individuals and communities, visit: www.arts.gov . Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center The Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center, informally known as "The Moss Center," is managed by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, with funding support from the Office of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. The center is dedicated to presenting and supporting arts and culture and providing access to the arts to Miami-Dade County. More information about the Center and its programs can be found at: www.MossCenter.org . Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council develop cultural excellence, diversity, access and participation throughout Miami-Dade County by strategically creating and promoting equitable opportunities for artists and cultural organizations, and our residents and visitors who are their audiences. The Department receives funding through the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners, The Children's Trust, the National Endowment for the Arts, the State of Florida through the Florida Department of State, Florida Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the Peacock Foundation, Inc. The Jorge M. Perez Family Foundation at The Miami Foundation, and The Taft Foundation. Other support and services are provided by TicketWeb for the Culture Shock Miami program, the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, the South Florida Cultural Consortium and the Tourist Development Council. For more information, visit: www.miamidadearts.org . It is the policy of Miami-Dade County to comply with all the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The facility is accessible and listening devices are available in the Main Stage Auditorium and the Black Box Theater space. To request materials in accessible format, and/or any accommodation to attend an event at the Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center, please contact Stephanie Aponte at: (786) 573-5314. Email: saponte@miamidade.gov , at least five in advance to initiate your request. TTY users may also call: 711 (Florida Relay Service). The Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center is located at 10950 Southwest 211th Street, Cutler Bay, Florida 33189. Previous Next

Hey Macarena April 28, 2022 Share Are you looking for a jogging partner or even a dancing partner? Maybe a dog that would like to possibly do agility? If so, two-year-old Macarena (ID 649648) is the girl for you. She looks a lot like a shepherd mix maybe with some type of bully breed in her. One thing for sure…she is beautiful, and she is very playful and spirited. Macarena is currently the shelter’s longest guest having arrived back in December. We think it is because she will do best as the only pet and she has a lot of energy. Thanks to Underdog Behavior & Training, Macarena just spent 2 weeks with them at their board and training facility to learn more about this fantastic girl. What we learned is that she likes to swim in a pool, so if you have one, she would be over the top happy. She LOVES her toys and will chase a ball for hours. She is also quite smart. Macarena will do best in a home with older kids, like teenagers and a home with a backyard so she can run and play. She doesn’t like loud noises and is very stressed here at the shelter when the other dogs bark. She likes to sleep in her crate and be with people. Can you give her the loving home she deserves? Thanks to dog lover Beth, her adoption fee is sponsored. If you’re looking for a smaller pet that doesn't require daily walks, but does enjoy daily exercise, then Gordon and George, brother Guinea Pigs could be for you. This bonded pair are looking for a home where they can stay together. The brothers are cute, curious and enjoy lots of fresh greens and hay to eat. This duo is just two of several Guinea Pig pairs that are waiting to be adopted. You can adopt the pair and pay just one adoption fee. It’s National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day April 30th is celebrated nationally as “Adopt a Shelter Pet Day” and the Humane Society of Broward County (HSBC) hopes you’re ready to open your heart and home to a pet in need. Adoption fees are half price for animals 6 months & older. According to Cherie Wachter, VP of Marketing at the HSBC, “there are so many incredible dogs, cats, rabbits, and Guinea pigs waiting for a second chance, and we hope all those looking to add a furry friend to their family will stop by. Whether you’re looking for a jogging partner or a pal to snuggle on the couch with, a dog that enjoys leisurely walks or a pal for your kids to play with, there are a variety of pets longing for the chance to be part of a family.” In honor of Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, the Humane Society will be offering half price adoption fees for pets six months of age and older and some pets have had their adoption fees sponsored. You’ll save $75 on a dog adoption and $20 on a cat! With the savings you can spoil them with lots of treats and toys. If you can’t adopt, but want to help, follow the shelter on Facebook and Instagram and be sure to share the posted pets in need of new homes. Spread the word, your share might be the one that makes a difference for a pet. You can see all the pets available, learn about volunteer opportunities or donate by visiting www.humanebroward.com Prior to going home all pets are spayed or neutered, receive preliminary vaccinations, treatment for fleas and ticks, wellness check, microchip, feline leukemia test for cats, heartworm test for dogs seven months and older, complimentary bag of Purina ONE pet food, and a limited 14-day follow-up care at participating VCA Animal Hospitals (restrictions apply). To meet a pet, fill out a pre-adoption application At: www.humanebroward.com (unless you have in the past) and stop by the Humane Society of Broward County that is conveniently located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. If you have any questions, Call Us At: (954) 989-3977. Extension#: 6. The adoption kennels open daily at 11:00 a.m. If you can’t have a pet on a permanent basis but would like to help adult dogs and cats find homes, volunteer to be an Adoption Ambassador, learn more at www.humanebroward.com The Humane Society of Broward County is a private non-profit organization made possible by generous donations from animal enthusiasts like you. The shelter is not affiliated with any other animal welfare organization and receives no funding from them or the state. < Previous News Next News >

Hallandale Beach Updates: Hemispheres Condo Update, Beach Cleaning & Condo Law Changes By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper June 30, 2022 Share After a long 9 days, the Air Conditioning was finally back on at the Hemispheres Condo on Sunday. The final fix is still ongoing. The Staff at The Hemispheres Condo, the City Staff and FPL are working on plans to redo the Electrical Panels and Access. During this time they will be running Heavy Diesel Generators to supply enough power to the Plant Pumping Stations to keep the Air Conditioning running. While this is not ideal due to the exhaust and the noise, it is necessary. While this Crisis was taking place I received some calls and E-Mails complaining about the Board Of Directors, I still stand that President Yvette Suluco and Board Member Barbara Drabkin along with all of the Staff have worked tirelessly under an Extreme Emergency. They were fully accessible during the entire Event and worked around the clock. I certainly did not want to get into Condo Politics; it was not the time nor the place. My goal is to work to make sure we can address the needs of all of the Residents. We have been working with the Management to make sure that all of the Permits are submitted correctly. On another note, to date, the Pool Permit is awaiting Shoring Plans from the Contractor. The Window Permits will be final after having the Contractor not addressing Deficient Plans for almost a year, they are mostly finalized. I continue to stress that while we are extremely busy, our Staff needs Contractors to follow the State Regulations and File Complete and Accurate plans. If they do not, it only delays the Process further. Beach Cleaning Every once and awhile I get calls about our Beach Cleaning. We clean our beaches daily and I do need to remind Residents that it is still Turtle Nesting Season. Typically, Volunteers go onto our Beach and make sure that any Turtle Nests are found and protected. Then we go and clean. This takes place around 7:00 a.m. and takes 2.0 to 2.5 hours. We drag and bury the Sargassum, this has been our Practice for decades. Sargassum season is in full effect in Hallandale Beach. The amount of Sargassum that we do find on the area Beaches is Seasonal with much more being present during the Spring and the Summer. When visiting the beach, please remember, Sargassum is not harmful to people and is a habitat for a lot of animals. Please use caution when crossing the seaweed to access the water. For more information on Sargassum visit www.coHB.org/Sargassum As it relates to what other Cities do, it is my understanding that the City of Fort Lauderdale drags, picks up and removes the Sargassum. I believe that the City of Hollywood may perform the work in the same manner. In both cases a Vendor is used to perform that work at a considerable expense. I know we were involved in a Pilot Program to Research this Practice. I will be researching this issue further for our Residents. Our Beach is also much different than Dade-County’s Beaches. We have Hot-Spots that are created by how our Port was designed. The Army Corps Of Engineers has been in the process of addressing this problem and have finally passed Environmental Permitting Concerns. This will help allow sand to flow from the North to the South without scooping inwards to our Beach and pulling the sand out to the Sea. Condo Law Changes The new Law that was enacted will now require Condos to set aside Reserves. It was found that typically 50% Percent of Florida Condos do not plan nor set aside Reserves. This may be a hard pill to swallow but in light of the Champlain Towers Tragedy it is absolutely the right thing to do! By 2025 all Condos will be required to have set aside Reserves for Structural Repairs. For Buildings with Certificates of Occupancy issued prior to July 1st, 1992, the Initial Milestone Inspection is due by December 31st, 2024. The Inspections must Include: Windows, Roof, Load-Bearing Walls or other Primary Structural Members, Floors, Foundation, Fireproofing and Fire Protection Systems, Plumbing, Electrical Systems, Waterproofing and Exterior Painting. In next week's article I will review the new Law, but I encourage every Condo to speak with their Attorneys and to hire Architects and or Engineers to start the Process. Congressman Charlie Crist and Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz Introduce Bill To Help with Costs U.S. Representatives Charlie Crist and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) recently introduced H.R.7532, the Securing Access to Financing for Exterior Repairs (SAFER) in Condos Act. The Bill will make it easier for Condo Owners to afford Special Assessments assigned by expanding access to two Loan Programs guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to help cover the cost of Special Assessments for Structural and Safety Related Repairs. “As Floridians remain focused on Safety and Structural integrity of their Condominiums, more and more Owners are facing Unaffordable Special Assessments. When Associations have to make Critical Repairs to keep Residents Safe, the Special Assessments that fund the Repairs can be a significant financial burden, especially for Seniors on Fixed Incomes and working Floridians,” said Representative Charlie Crist. I spoke with Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz this past weekend and they are working hard to make sure that Congress acts to Amend the Regulations. The Act Amends the 203(K) Program to allow Loans to be used on Special Assessments for Structural Repairs, expands the Title I Property Improvement Loans Program to insure Private Lenders against losses when lending to Individual Condo Owners or Condo Associations for Special Assessments. It also increases the maximum insured Loan amount to $55,000, to be adjusted with inflation. It also streamlines the process of applying. As always, feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns and ideas on how to make our City a great place to live, work and play! I am available by Phone or Text At: (954) 632-5700. E-mail me At: jcooper@cohb.org . Or visit my Facebook & Web-Site At: www.MayorJoyCooper.com . < Previous News Next News >

Did The Grinch Steal Christmas In Your Town? By Jane M. Orient, M.D. January 12, 2023 Share The killjoys who canceled a lot of Dr. Seuss’s delightful books didn’t get around to How The Grinch Stole Christmas - yet. But comparing what I have seen this season with the magical celebrations of my childhood, I think there’s a real Grinch out there. And he is not going to be converted, will not bring the goodies back and definitely will not carve the roast beast. Many homes might have had to forgo roast beast. British Commentator Alexander Mercouris reported that a Christmas goose was not obtainable, even in an affluent part of London. In America, if you had a turkey with all the trimmings, you paid much more for it than you did last year. This situation is not expected to be temporary. The world eats too much meat, say the oracles and needs to cut the amount from an average 70 kg per person per year to 24. In the Netherlands, the world’s second largest exporter of food, the government is expropriating 3,000 farms to meet “sustainable development” nitrogen emission goals. Livestock emits methane and nitrogen-containing waste, a.k.a. fertilizer. So, it must be sacrificed. Instead, we are supposed to adopt entomophagy—eating bugs. Raising insects is supposed to be much better for the Planet than raising livestock. Insects are said to require about 4 percent of the water and 10 percent of the amount of grain that a cow would require to produce the same amount of food biomass. Also, livestock require a lot of space, which will be needed for all those wind turbines and solar panels. Among the benefits touted by the New Yorker: “Insects are natural recyclers, capable of eating old cardboard, manure and by-products from food manufacturing and insect husbandry is humane: bugs like teeming and thrive in filthy, crowded conditions.” If you managed to have a Christmas feast this year despite inflation, an insect-based diet could help you lose weight. Did you enjoy a Yule log or chestnuts roasting on an open fire? In San Francisco, that could cost you a $500 fine. The Grinch pushed the Christmas tree up the chimney. In many places, most of the decorations are gone. Long ago, there were bells and tinsel on Tucson downtown streets. We drove around to see them. Hospital halls were decked with boughs of holly or the equivalent. Grocery stores played carols, as did Rush Limbaugh and some radio stations — and not just the ditties about Rudolph and Frosty. Getting rid of songs like The Little Drummer Boy did not stop the Grinch’s “noise, noise, noise, noise.” That we still have aplenty, as in lewd rap songs. The Grinch took the presents. We still have shopping mania, but who knows for how long. Extravagances that don’t meet ESG environmental, social and governance goals might be blocked by your digital bank account even if you are willing to work extra or economize elsewhere. The Grinch was impressed by the Whos’ demonstrating that Christmas doesn’t “come from a store,” but “means a little bit more.” There’s the real problem, though Dr. Seuss avoids naming it. Nativity scenes are under attack by secular, atheist extremists. How offensive! A baby, a loving mother, a responsible husband, livestock! Who can bear to look at it! And of course, we must not allow public expression of faith in God, the universal ultimate Lawgiver, who will eventually topple all the oppressors from their thrones. The King Herods of the world have to squelch this very idea. Christmas is about joy, hope, love, merriment, life and light. Resentment or envy of these blessings explains why the real Grinches stand there on Christmas Eve hating the Whos. Their Grinch feet are not ice-cold in the snow. But they don’t care if you and your baby and your grandmother are freezing in the dark and eating bugs to meet the demands they impose with pretensions of godlike authority. For ordinary people, Grinches want it to be “always winter and never Christmas.” But the Light has come and the Grinches are ultimately powerless before it. About: Jane M. Orient, M.D. obtained her Undergraduate Degrees in Chemistry and Mathematics from the University of Arizona in Tucson, her M.D. from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, in 1974. She has been in solo private practice since 1981 and has served as Executive Director of The Association Of American Physicians And Surgeons, (AAPS) since 1989. She is the author of YOUR Doctor Is Not In: Healthy Skepticism about National Healthcare and the second through fifth editions of Sapira's Art And Science Of Bedside Diagnosis Published by Wolters Kluwer. She is the Managing Editor of The Journal Of American Physicians And Surgeons. Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of Jane M. Orient, M.D and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of The South Florida Sun Times Newspaper. < Previous News Next News >