Childhood Grief: How To Recognize The Suffering & Symptoms By Tracy Renee Lee - Certified Grief Counselor July 14, 2022 Share I finally have my grandchildren here for the summer. Of course, there will be fun, but there will also be work during their visit. My grandchildren lost their brother four years ago. Now that they have been with me for a week, I see that my grandson continues to suffer grief. In fact, the most pronounced effects of grief that he has yet to overcome are anger and aggression. He has turned eight since his arrival, and we will work on overcoming his anger while we are together. How does one assist a child suffering grief associated with anger and aggression? It is a difficult situation. At this point, I believe the best option is to enlist professional counselors specializing in Pediatric Care. As his grandmother, I would never find a grief counselor who would love him more or care more about his treatment than I do. However, as his grandmother and a certified grief counselor, I know he would be better served by someone emotionally detached from our loss. So how do you know when your child or grandchild might benefit from professional grief counseling? There are signs and symptoms for which you should look. If you notice these signs or symptoms, I would advise you to seriously consider an evaluation by a counselor at the very least. Signs that your child may need professional assistance for grief recovery: nightmares, belief that the world is generally unsafe, irritability, anger, moodiness, poor concentration, appetite or sleep disturbances, clinginess, bedwetting, refusal to go to school, ongoing depression or suicidal thoughts. Most insurance will cover the cost of the evaluation and treatments should they be determined necessary. To begin the process, you should speak with your child’s Pediatrician. He or she will make the referral for evaluation. Unless your child is violent, I would not recommend medication at this point. Allow the experts to do their job and get your child the best care available. If you see your child or grandchild suffering these signs, seek assistance immediately. Do not delay thinking it will pass or that you can help them out of it. These are serious moments and call for serious actions. Please don’t wait until they are embedded Psychological Ailments. My name is Tracy Renee Lee. I am a Certified Grief Counselor (GC-C), Funeral Director (FDIC), published author, syndicated columnist, Podcaster, and founder of the “Mikey Joe Children’s Memorial” and Heaven Sent, Corp. I write books, weekly bereavement articles, Podcasts and Grief BRIEFs related to understanding and coping with grief. I am the American Funeral Director of the Year Runner-Up and Recipient of the BBB’s Integrity Award. It is my life's work to comfort the bereaved and help them live on. For additional encouragement, please visit my podcast “Deadline” at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7MHPy4ctu9OLvdp2JzQsAA Or at: https://anchor.fm/tracy874 and follow me on Instagram at: "Deadline_TracyLee." < Previous News Next News >

Hollywood Beach, What Types of Food Packaging Can Be Used? July 22, 2021 Share The City of Hollywood is committed to reducing our environmental impact and becoming more sustainable. One step the City has taken in achieving this goal is to ban the use of non-biodegradable containers, like plastics and expanded polystyrene foam (EPS), for serving food products. Who must comply with the ban and when does it take affect? Beginning October 1, 2018, according to Chapter 97.05 of the City of Hollywood Code of Ordinances, any establishment located east of the Intracoastal Waterway selling food intended for consumption by customers off the premises of their business, is included in the ban. Additionally, on Wednesday, October 21, 2020, the City Commission approved a ban on single-use plastics and polystyrene on City-owned properties and by City vendors. City-owned properties include the beach, parks, playgrounds, community centers, Hollywood City Hall and other City building and facilities. What types of food packaging are banned? Bottles, bags, cups, lids, straws, plates, bowls, utensils, sandwich containers, or other packaging, which are made of plastic, polystyrene plastic, or of any non-biodegradable material are banned. What is polystyrene and why did the City of Hollywood ban it? Polystyrene, best known as “styrofoam,” is a non-biodegradable plastic material made from petroleum. It is commonly used in takeout containers, disposable coffee cups, single-use utensils and dinnerware. The material breaks apart easily, and is often found littered throughout waterways and can harm wildlife if ingested. How do you identify polystyrene packaging? Polystyrene material can be identified with this symbol marked on the packaging: My business is using the banned food packaging products. What do we do now? If you’ve verified that your business is using these products, you should contact your sales representative or wholesaler to assist you in transitioning to non-polystyrene food packaging. What types of food packaging can be used? Businesses may use any compostable materials or paper. Businesses may also access the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI), which is an online catalog of key individuals and groups from government, industry and academia, which promotes the use and recycling of biodegradable polymeric materials (via composting). Ban on the Intentional Release of Balloons Effective Wednesday, October 21, 2020, the City Commission approved a ban on the intentional release of balloons in the City of Hollywood. What will happen if my business does not comply with the ban? Businesses found using these products after October 1, 2018 will be issued a Code Violation and could face fines for failing to comply. For more information about the products included in the ban, please refer to City of Hollywood Code of Ordinances 97.05. You may also contact the City of Hollywood Code Compliance Division at 954.921.3061, they can assist you to avoid any issues with using the wrong packaging. < Previous News Next News >

'Tis The Season For Aventura's First-Ever Winter Wonderland Celebration By Joyce R. Forchion - LOVE Aventura December 12, 2022 Share The holidays are in full effect as the City of Aventura kicked off the season with a rare appearance of SNOW! A simulated snow flurry captivated hundreds of ecstatic parents and children attending Aventura’s inaugural Winter Wonderland ceremony, which made its cheerfully “chill”-y debut on December 6 along the breezeway of Government Center. The family-friendly festivities, which were organized by the City’s Community Services and Public Works Departments, offered Nutcracker-inspired stage performances from tiny ballerinas, along with contemporary dance and vocal presentations from students representing the Aventura City of Excellence School, and participating community groups. Passersby usually recognize Aventura Government Center for its illuminated “Season’s Greetings” sign lining the landscape of the building, along with its gleaming display of palm trees that glisten in white and blue, the City’s traditional colors. Finally, we have an event that’s unique to our City where locals can immerse themselves in the sentiments of this time of year. Amid street construction, new businesses that are relocating to the city, and the annual December traffic jams on Biscayne Boulevard, residents considered the Winter Wonderland event to be a much-needed escape and reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the work week, and a pleasant transition into Christmas and Hanukkah, which were both symbolized with a community countdown to the first-ever lighting of the Christmas Tree and Menorah, both prominently displayed side-by-side for all to see. While a life-sized gingerbread man and dreidel duo happily posed for pictures throughout the night, kids were having the time of their lives capturing their fun times in the revolving holiday-themed photo booth and jumping for joy in the snow globe bounce house. Parents took advantage of the complimentary cookies, candy and treats offered for their children’s enjoyment and marveled at the special surprise of snow, which marked the first time many of them– along with their little ones– have witnessed such elements as sun-loving South Floridians. Aventura has evolved beyond the City with the enormous mall where we shop, dine, and unwind. Thanks to the long-term vision of the City’s leaders, staff, and volunteers, Aventura now serves as a prototype for municipalities seeking to create wholesome family experiences and promote community engagement, consisting of intergenerational activities uniting the entire family and touching each generation in a significant way. In retrospect, Winter Wonderland brought to life imagery from our youthful fantasies of snowmen, sleigh rides, colorful presents, and reindeer. We as residents are beyond grateful to attend another event spreading happiness and joy throughout the area – right in our backyard – and we’ll continue to cherish these precious memories of our City’s special occasions forever. LOVE, AVENTURA. A column celebrating the heart, soul and culture of our community. < Previous News Next News >

A Doggone Good Time: Walk With The Animals For A Good Cause Thu Jan 18 2024 17:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hallandale Beach: City Officials Are Confronting Local & Worldwide Issues Thu Mar 10 2022 05:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Fort Lauderdale Native Serves Where Future Navy Warfighters Train By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach July 18, 2024 Share Sailors are some of the most highly trained people on the planet, and this training begins at Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes, otherwise known as boot camp. Every enlisted sailor starts their Navy journey at boot camp at Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL), Illinois. Seaman Recruit Chasity Constant, a native of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is currently stationed at NSGL as a student with Naval Education and Training Command (NETC). Constant, a 2017 graduate of Coconut Creek High School, joined the Navy six months ago. “I joined the Navy to better myself, to further my education, to learn self-discipline and to experience a new way of life,” said Constant. The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Fort Lauderdale. “I learned growing up that the value of working hard to rise to the top,” said Constant. “Those who don't compete, fall to the bottom.” During the 10 weeks at RTC Great Lakes, sailors learn five warfighting competencies – firefighting, damage control, seamanship, watchstanding, and small arms marksmanship. NSGL is the Navy’s largest training installation and the home of the Navy’s only boot camp. Located on over 1,600 acres overlooking Lake Michigan, the installation includes 1,153 buildings with 39 on the National Register of Historic Places. NSGL supports more than 50 tenant commands and elements as well as more than 20,000 sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and DoD civilians who live and work on the installation. Two commands at NETC are Surface Warfare Engineering School Command Great Lakes (SWESC GL) and Surface Combat Systems Training Command Great Lakes (SCSTC GL). Every surface Navy engineer, quartermaster, boatswain’s mate and deck seaman attends SWESC GL for technical training. These sailors leave SWESC GL as surface warriors, ready to perform aboard ships operating around the globe. Instructors at SCSTC GL provide a culture of excellence and warrior toughness by building a surface warrior mindset to complement the technical and tactical skill sets. “As an operations specialist, I’ll be learning the tools and skills necessary to do navigation on a ship while underway,” said Constant. “I’m also excited to travel the world and proud that I am defending and contributing to my country.” With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America. "We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day," said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations. "Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.” Constant serves a Navy that operates forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security. “Serving in the Navy means working for something bigger than myself and carrying on a tradition that has been going on since this country was founded,” said Constant. Constant is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible. “I would like to thank my family, friends and my brother, Sgt. Dorcely in the Marine Corps,” added Constant. “He never once gave up on me and told me to never give up on trying to get into the military because there was always a way as long as I kept pushing. I will always be grateful to him and I want him to know that his sister is happy that I didn't give up at all.” < Previous News Next News >

Launch The Holidays At Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex With New ‘Kennedy Under The Stars: Holiday Edition’ South Florida Sun Times Nov 19, 2025 Sleigh The Way Into A Holiday Adventure That’s Out Of This World! Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Recently Ranked The Number One Attraction In The United States In Tripadvisor’s 2025 Traveler’s Choice Awards, Is Where Festive Fun Meets Real Space Exploration. Get Up Close To Authentic Flight-Flown Artifacts, Meet A Veteran NASA Astronaut, And Feel The Rumble Of A Rocket Launch. This December, the holidays take off at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex with the annual Holidays in Space, a spectacular celebration that combines festive cheer with the wonder of space exploration. Kicking off the seasonal festivities is the debut of Kennedy Under the Stars: Holiday Edition, a dazzling after-hours event inviting guests to experience the visitor complex in a whole new light…after dark! Kennedy Under the Stars: Holiday Edition will take place Friday December 19th and Saturday, December 20th, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. This special, separately ticketed event at $65 per person will transform the visitor complex into a holiday outpost filled with music, lights and space-themed merriment. Guests can explore some of the most popular attractions at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, including Heroes & Legends, Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex®, Journey To Mars, Space Shuttle Atlantis, Planet Play, and more, all after hours and aglow in festive decor. The iconic Rocket Garden will come alive with twinkling lights and a Holiday Grooves Dance Party, while a spectacular custom drone show will light up the night sky in a display unlike any other. The event’s live entertainment will feature The Vocalitas performing holiday classics, whimsical characters on stilts and a roving Penny Farthing-riding elf adding a touch of vintage charm. Guests can also enjoy the brilliant and beautiful Rocket Tree Trail, take part in a scavenger hunt, and snap a photo with the Mars Rover dressed as Rudolph. Attendees are encouraged to wear their most creative space-themed holiday attire; no masks or face coverings permitted. Complimentary parking is included with admission. Holiday edition retail items will be available for purchase throughout the evening. Annual Passholder discounts on food, beverage and retail purchases will apply. Holidays in Space continues from Sunday, December 21st - Tuesday, December 30th, 2025 and will be closed on Thursday, December 25th, Christmas Day, with holiday decorations and an all-new Holidays in Space Drone Show Spectacular! The breathtaking 600-drone performance will tell the story of Starflake, a celestial character formed from a meteor shower who journeys through NASA’s greatest programs, from Apollo and Shuttle to Artemis, culminating in the creation of a glowing cosmic tree. Premium viewing for this show will be available on select nights throughout the holiday season and can be purchased soon at: www.KennedySpaceCenter.com . Each performance will feature brilliant visuals of the International Space Station, NASA’s spacecraft, and even an astronaut in a Santa hat, making it a truly interstellar celebration of the season. In addition, guests can look forward to a new, soon-to-be-announced live character show that will take place in the Universe Theater, as well as an interactive, family breakfast experience available during the holiday period. To make the most of the holiday season, guests can also purchase the Holiday Dining Package. Designed to make mealtime at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex more convenient and enjoyable during the busy holiday season, the package is available for presale only and will be offered from Monday, December 15th - Friday, December 19th, 2025 and from Monday, December 22nd, 2025 - Friday, January 2nd, 2026, for $39.99 per person in addition to admission. The Holiday Dining Package includes one meal from either the Orbit Cafe, Moonrock Cafe, or Barbecue located in Chat With An Astronaut, offering selections such as chicken tenders and fries, pizza, cheeseburgers, hamburgers, or veggie burgers. Guests will also receive a refillable souvenir cup and a choice of one snack and two of either a snack or Space Dots, or the option to redeem for two snacks or two Space Dots. Tickets for Kennedy Under the Stars: Holiday Edition started going on sale as of Tuesday, November 4th at: www.KennedySpaceCenter.com . About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Go beyond imagination and into something real at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, which was recently ranked as the number one attraction in the U.S. in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Traveler’s Choice Awards. Get up close to real flight flown artifacts, meet a veteran NASA astronaut, feel the rumble of a rocket launch, and so much more. Just 45 minutes from Orlando, Florida, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9:00 a.m. with closing times varying by season. The popular two-day ticket, which can be used for up to six months from purchase and averages a cost of $45 per day, is now available for $91 per adult and $81 per child. Single-day admission is $77 per adult; $67 per child. For more information, call: 1 (877) 313-2610. Or visit: www.KennedySpaceCenter.com . Previous Next

Theater Up Close: Putting Audiences In The Middle Of The Action April 20, 2023 Share The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is proud to announce its lineup for the 2023-2024 THEATER UP CLOSE Season, created in collaboration with Zoetic Stage and City Theatre. This Season’s Theater Up Close Series returns with five extraordinary productions that put audiences in the middle of the action, including two world premieres and two regional premieres that reflect some of Miami’s diverse cultures. “The 2023-2024 Season Of Theater Up Close promises to engage audiences with thought-provoking pieces of theater that are sure to resonate with the South Florida community by telling nuanced, thoughtful stories that are poignant and relevant,” said Liz Wallace, Vice President Of Programming for The Arsht Center. “We’re proud to continue our partnership with Zoetic Stage and City Theatre as they bring these important stories to the forefront.” “Zoetic Stage celebrates its 14th Season with a curated collection of programming filled with thoughtfully crafted storytelling, laughter, provocative themes, two world-premiere plays and a timely reimagined classic musical. This Season, I hope to celebrate friendship and family (in all of its forms) with a reminder that at the end of the day, it's our shared experiences that make life worth living,” said Zoetic Stage Artistic Director Stuart Meltzer. “As always, we are thrilled to continue our arts partnership with The Arsht Center and anchor The Theatre Up-Close Series.” City Theatre’s Artistic Director Margaret M. Ledford said, “As Artistic Director, I am honored to present the Miami premiere of ‘La Gringa,’ an enduring and resonant classic from distinguished Playwright Carmen Rivera. Through the lens of a New York born woman with Puerto Rican roots, we experience the universal journey of identity and belonging. It is a funny, affirming story with family at its heart." Tickets Five-Show Subscription Packages are available now starting at the Early Bird Rate of $195* until Monday, May 15th, 2023. Starting Tuesday, May 16th, 2023, Packages start at $220. Subscriptions can be purchased now through The Adrienne Arsht Center Box Office by calling: (305) 949-6722. Or online at: www.arshtcenter.org Tickets for individual performances will be announced at a later date. The lineup for the 2023-2024 THEATER UP CLOSE Series includes the following: CLYDE’S Zoetic Stage and Adrienne Arsht Center present CLYDE’S – Regional Premiere, by Lynn Nottage and Directed by Stuart Meltzer, Thursday, November 2nd, 2023 - Sunday, November 19th, 2023. “Fast-paced and uproariously funny, ‘Clyde’s’ is a spicy feast for the senses.” – Chicago Sun-Times In CLYDE’S, a truck-stop sandwich shop offers its formerly incarcerated kitchen staff a shot at redemption. Even as the shop’s callous owner tries to keep them down, the staff members learn to reclaim their lives, find purpose and become inspired to dream by their shared quest to create the perfect sandwich. CLYDE’S was written by Two-Time Pulitzer Prize-Winning Playwright Lynn Nottage (Mlima’s Tale, MJ The Musical). She is the first and remains the only woman to have won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama twice. LA GRINGA City Theatre and Adrienne Arsht Center Present, LA GRINGA – Miami Premiere, by Carmen Rivera, Thursday, November 30th, 2023 - Sunday, December 17th, 2023. "90 minutes of laughter” - The New York Times Winner of the Obie Award, Off-Broadway’s highest honor, Carmen Rivera's LA GRINGA is a poignant comedy about a young woman’s search for identity. Maria Elena Garcia visits her family in Puerto Rico during the Christmas holidays and plans to connect with her homeland. Although this is her first trip to Puerto Rico, she has an intense love for the island. She even majored in Puerto Rican studies in college. Once Maria is in Puerto Rico, she realizes that Puerto Rico does not welcome her with open arms. The majority of Puerto Ricans on the island consider her an American — a gringa — and Maria considers this a betrayal. If she’s a Puerto Rican in the United States and an American in Puerto Rico, Maria concludes that she is nobody everywhere. Her uncle, Manolo, teaches her that identity isn’t based on superficial and external definitions, but is an essence she has had all along in her heart. City Theatre's production of LA GRINGA, currently the longest-running Spanish-Language production Off-Broadway, is presented in English with Spanish supertitles and is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. WICKED CHILD Zoetic Stage and Adrienne Arsht Center Present, WICKED CHILD – World Premiere, by David Rosenberg and directed by Stuart Meltzer, Thursday, January 11th, 2024 - Sunday, January 28th, 2024. When Ben leaves his lucrative associate’s job at a New York law firm to join The Israeli Defense Force, his secular Jewish family must reexamine its positions toward The State Of Israel and their Jewish identity. Originally workshopped at Zoetic Stage’s Finstrom Festival of New Work in 2022, WICKED CHILD is a play about whether political belief can destroy familial bonds and how much we owe to our community. CABARET Zoetic Stage and Adrienne Arsht Center Present CABARET, a Book by Joe Masteroff, based on the Play by John Van Druten, and Stories by Christopher Isherwood. The Music was composed by John Kander with Lyrics by Fred Ebb and Directed by Stuart Meltzer. The performances will be held Thursday, March 14th, 2023 - Sunday, April 7th, 2024. The Tony Award-Winner for Best Musical (1967) and Best Musical Revival (1998) returns to Miami with South Florida-based Actress Lindsey Corey starring as Sally Bowles. An audience favorite, Corey won a Carbonell Award for her role in Zoetic Stage’s Stripped, which was part of the Theater Up Close Series. As the 1920’s draw to a close in Berlin, a garish master of ceremonies assures his audience that they will forget all their troubles at the Cabaret. With the emcee's bawdy songs as wry commentary, CABARET explores the dark, heady and tumultuous life of Berlin's natives and expatriates as Germany yields to the emerging Third Reich. Cliff, a young American writer newly arrived in Berlin, is immediately taken with English Singer Sally Bowles. Meanwhile, Fräulein Schneider, proprietor of Cliff and Sally’s Boarding House, tentatively begins a romance with Herr Schultz, a mild-mannered fruit seller who happens to be Jewish. Musical numbers include "Willkommen," "Cabaret," "Don't Tell Mama" and "Two Ladies." CUBAN CHICKEN SOUP WHEN THERE’S NO MORE CAFÉ Zoetic Stage and Adrienne Arsht Center Present, CUBAN CHICKEN SOUP WHEN THERE’S NO MORE CAFÉ – World Premiere, by Elena Maria Garcia and Stuart Meltzer, Thursday, May 2nd, 2024 - Sunday, May 19th, 2024. From the creators of megahit ¡FUÁCATA! A Latina's Guide to Surviving The Universe – which sold out twice at the Arsht Center when it premiered in 2017 and returned in 2018 - comes the next chapter in Elena's life as her world takes unexpected twists and turns. With everything upside down, Elena has the strength and wisdom of her mother, daughters and a slew of strong, vibrant and unapologetic Miami women to nurture her soul with Cuban Chicken Soup, sisterhood and lots of laughter. All programs, artists, ticket prices, availability, dates and times are subject to change without notice. Additional fees may apply. For up-to-date information, visit: www.arshtcenter.org < Previous News Next News >

Working On Behalf Of At-Risk Youth Nationwide - National PAL Board Appoints Dr. Stephen M. Coan As President And CEO South Florida Sun Times Feb 11, 2026 The National Police Athletic/Activities League’s (National PAL) Board Of Directors Has Appointed Dr. Stephen M. Coan as President And Chief Executive Officer, Choosing A Highly Experienced And Accomplished Education And Non-Profit Leader For The Youth Mentoring Organization’s Top Position. National PAL Oversees And Supports More Than 300 local PAL Chapters Across The Country, Including 32 In Florida. Dr. Coan, who most recently served as National PAL’s Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, has been involved with the organization for many years and joined its leadership team in 2024. His priorities have included modernizing governance and operations and providing services and support for local PAL affiliates run by police and sheriff departments across the country, including Florida chapters in Jacksonville, Tampa, Miami, North Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Coral Gables, Miami Gardens, Miami Beach, North Miami Beach, Gainesville, Davie, West Palm Beach, Melbourne, Hollywood, Key West, Lakeland, Palm City, Doral, Miramar, Palatka, Sunrise, St. Petersburg, Green Cove Springs, Nokomis, Hallandale Beach, Boynton Beach, and Eustis (some communities have multiple chapters). “Dr. Coan has a keen understanding of National PAL and the needs of its chapters as well as a proven commitment to working on behalf of at-risk youth nationwide,” said Kenneth Ragland, Interim Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive Director of Henrico, Virginia, PAL. “This is a transformative moment for the PAL Organization as we launch a new governing and organizational structure that will best meet the needs of our chapters well into the future.” National PAL and its nationwide local chapters promote the prevention of juvenile crime and violence by building relationships between youth, law enforcement officers, and communities through positive engagement, sports, wellness programs, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) programming. As President and CEO, Dr. Coan will lead all aspects of National PAL’s operations, including strategic planning, fundraising, program development, membership, finances, external relations, and marketing. Dr. Coan’s appointment comes as the organization is expanding its offerings for youth, including an initiative that promotes resiliency and personal growth; a partnership with NFL FLAG, the National Football League’s flag football program; and two additional corporate partnerships aimed at providing children with hands-on STEAM learning experiences that will be announced later this year. The NFL FLAG partnership was rolled out at three local PAL affiliates last fall, including the Hollywood, Florida Chapter. “I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with our hundreds of chapters nationwide and law enforcement leaders throughout the nation to grow the PAL mission,” Dr. Coan said. “Our mission has never been more important in preventing youth crime and violence, protecting youth from the increasing threat of cyberspace crimes, and increasing respect for law enforcement. I have always had deep respect and appreciation for the work of thousands of officers and PAL staff who work tirelessly, every day, to improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable youth in our nation.” Dr. Coan previously led several Non-Profit and youth-serving organizations as CEO, focusing on common themes of mentoring, connecting law enforcement with children, developing academic pathways for at-risk youth, career awareness, STEM skills, environmental stewardship, and workforce development. He also served in leadership positions in higher education and as a volunteer and professional youth worker. Dr. Coan’s appointment was lauded by police leaders. “Everywhere I’ve been – Boston, New York City, Los Angeles – one common denominator that determined the success of the police department was the trust of the communities we served,” said William J. Bratton, the Former Commissioner of the New York and Boston Police Departments and Former Chief of the Los Angeles Police. “A large part of that effort was – and still is -- fostering mutual respect and understanding between young people and police officers, and no organization is better suited for that mission than National PAL and its approximately 300 local chapters. Dr. Coan gets it – his vision of how law enforcement officers and children can work together to enable brighter futures and safer communities is exactly what is needed in the field of policing today.” Added Former Boston Police Commissioner William G. Gross: “Studies show that juvenile crime drops in neighborhoods where police oversee youth programs. Reducing crime is important; equally so is the flip side—protecting young people from criminal activity. Under the leadership of Dr. Coan, National PAL and Police Athletic Leagues across the country will continue to take even greater strides in changing young lives for the better and building stronger communities.” Dr. Coan serves on the New England Commission for Higher Education, the nation’s oldest body for accrediting colleges and universities. As a police commissioner in Connecticut, he is a member of the Police Commissioner Association of Connecticut. About National PAL The National Association of Police Athletic/Activities Leagues, Inc. (National PAL) and its Chapters work nationwide promoting the prevention of juvenile crime and violence by building relationships among kids, cops, and communities through positive engagement. There are more than 300 PAL chapters throughout the United States, serving over two million youth annually. It is the premier model for modern community policing and connecting cops to kids. Previous Next

Understanding Feline Diabetes Mellitus: Causes, Diagnosis, And Management South Florida Sun Times Aug 6, 2026 When A Cat Starts Emptying Their Water Bowl Faster Than Usual Or Making More Frequent Trips To The Litter Box, Owners May Chalk It Up To Aging. But Subtle Changes In Thirst, Appetite, And Weight Can Be Early Warning Signs Of Feline Diabetes. While Diabetes Mellitus (DM) — a condition where the body does not handle Blood Sugar correctly — was once thought of primarily as a human health concern, it is becoming increasingly common in cats, who, like humans, may require lifelong medical care to manage their condition. As such, it is important to diagnose DM early so that it does not progress into Ketoacidosis (DKA) or other health complications, according to Dr. Andrew Bugbee, a Clinical Associate Professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. Because prevention, early recognition, and timely diagnosis are critical for cats’ long-term health, Bugbee explains how Feline Diabetes can be identified and managed. Recognizing Feline Diabetes Similar to Type 2 Diabetes in humans, Feline DM occurs when a cat either does not produce enough Insulin or its body does not respond properly to the Insulin it does produce. As a result, Blood Sugar remains too high instead of being used by the body' s cells for energy. “Excess body weight or Obesity is the highest risk factor for development of DM,” Bugbee said. “Overweight cats have four times the risk to develop DM than a healthy weight cat.” Even with this elevated risk, the earliest signs of Feline Diabetes are often easy for owners to miss, with the most common signs including: • Unexplained weight loss • A dry or lusterless haircoat • Increased appetite • Increased thirst • Increased urination frequency “Owners often overlook slow, mild changes in drinking and urination,” Bugbee said. “They usually do not recognize a problem until they notice accidents outside the litter box or water bowls and litter boxes needing frequent refills or cleanings.” Recurring infections — including skin, ear, or urinary tract infections — may also suggest a condition like DM is present. “Some cats develop a neurologic condition called Diabetic Neuropathy in their back legs,” Bugbee said. “They appear to walk abnormally, with their weight on their ankles — known as dropped hocks — as opposed to just on the paw pads. This posture may not be obvious to pet owners at home; however, owners may notice that their cat is no longer able to jump onto things and/or may have difficulty using stairs.” Signs of DM may develop slowly and, as a result, may not be obvious to pet owners; however, cats who are in the early stages of developing Diabetes may be detected during routine health visits or annual exams, emphasizing the importance of regular veterinary evaluations. How Diabetes Is Diagnosed If a veterinarian suspects DM based on clinical signs and physical exam findings, a diagnosis is confirmed through blood work and urine testing. “After a cat is diagnosed with Diabetes, it is important to screen for any other health conditions that may cause Insulin Resistance and interfere with a cat’s response to treatment,” Bugbee said. Factors such as genetics, medications, or preexisting diseases can disrupt Insulin regulation. Because High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia) and loss of Glucose in the urine can occur in stressed, healthy cats (where DM is not present), confirmatory testing — such as Serum Fructosamine or HbA1c Concentration — are conducted by the veterinarian to diagnose DM, Bugbee said. These simple blood tests are used to prove the cat has persistent High Blood Sugar levels, even when in a non-stressed environment, like their home. “Once a veterinarian confirms a DM diagnosis, treatment is started and, often, there is discussion on ways to reverse any other specific factors that could negatively impact the cat’s ability to respond effectively to therapy,” Bugbee said. Treating Feline Diabetes Several medication options are available to lower Blood Glucose in cats diagnosed with DM. Insulin remains the most common treatment for Feline Diabetes and is typically given once or twice a day, based on a veterinarian’s recommendation. “A new drug class of Oral Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 (SLGT2) Inhibitors — Bexacat (oral tablet) and Senvelgo (oral solution) — was approved as an alternative to Insulin injections for DM management,” Bugbee said. According to Bugbee, these drugs work by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing Glucose back into the body, allowing excess Glucose to be excreted in the urine. Cats that may be candidates for these medications are: • Newly diagnosed with DM • Have not been treated with Insulin for a prolonged time • Otherwise healthy, without evidence of significant organ dysfunction • Little to no Blood Ketones “Monitoring a cat’s response to treatment and Blood Glucose levels helps determine the appropriate dose and keep the Diabetes under control over time,” Bugbee said. “Not all cats respond well to therapy and many require periodic changes to their drug dose and/or need to transition to another treatment if not responding well.” Veterinarians often rely both on the pet owner's interpretation of how well- or poorly controlled their pet's Diabetic clinical signs are at home and on other tools (such as changes in body weight, Blood Glucose curves, Serum Fructosamine, and/or Blood Ketone concentrations) to guide treatment changes and maintain appropriate control of the cat's DM. Advice for Owners Regular veterinary appointments are critical for ensuring cats remain healthy and to minimize risk of complications, such as low Blood Sugar or a progression into Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication that often requires hospitalization and intensive care to resolve. “The longer DM is present without treatment, the higher the risk for severe complications to develop,” Bugbee said. “Cats that have just been diagnosed with DM, achieve an ideal body weight, and have their Blood Glucose rapidly controlled with treatment have the highest chance of entering what is called Diabetic Remission. Remission means a cat regains the ability to make enough Insulin on its own that it can come off of treatments, like Insulin or SGLT2 Inhibitors.” Remission usually occurs in newly diagnosed Diabetic cats within one to 10 months of diagnosis. “Reported rates of remission in the United States are around 30%, so around 1 in 3 newly Diabetic cats may be able to come off of their DM medication,” Bugbee said. Cats who develop Diabetes can live comfortably with their condition for the rest of their lives, and for some, remission is possible. But prevention is key — dietary therapy, addressing Obesity, calorie restriction, and exercise are the best proactive ways to ensure your cat lives a happy, healthy life, free of the risk of DM. To learn more about the new Diabetes Mellitus treatments and management recommendations, the American Animal Hospital Association recently released 2026 AAHA Feline Diabetes Management Guidelines for Cats, written by Dr. Bugbee and his VMBS colleague Dr. Audrey Cook. Previous Next

At War With The Weather: Hallandale Beach Was Hit Hard...Again Fri Jun 21 2024 16:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

An Informative Town Hall In Hallandale Beach: Senator Pizzo Gives Residents, Condo, Vacation Rentals & Insurance Updates By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper November 9, 2023 Share Florida Legislators have begun what are called committee weeks. During this time is when members from both chambers submit Sponsored Bills into the process. They also are required to pass a State Budget. Our local Representatives Marie Woodson, Hillary Cassel and Senator Pizzo have already started working with the Commission and our Staff on our priorities. Senator Pizzo approached me to host a local meeting to discuss Condominium Laws and other issues with our residents. I, along with my colleagues, hosted the meeting on October 30th. Special thanks to CAO Bakery that provided refreshments. I have gotten to know Senator Pizzo over the past two years. We used to be represented by Senator Lauren Book. During the redistricting process the state redistricted the maps and carved out Book who does live in Davie but also put her head-to-head in the Senate Race against Barbara Sharief. As a note Barbara is now running for that seat which will be open now in 2024 due to term limits. Senator Pizzo's district runs all along the South Florida Coast. District 37 is along Broward, Miami Dade and dips into parts of Monroe County. Sunny Isles is where he resides in a condominium. Since the Senator lives in a condo, he is well poised and totally versed in Condominium Laws. He was raised in NYC and Graduated University of Miami Law School. Sadly, he was on hand during the Champlain Tower Collapse and had to witness many deaths. He shared with us that as a former State Prosecutor focused on murder cases he had the grit to work side by side with emergency management. It took his knowledge and strength to make sure the Surfside tragedy would not happen again. As we all know there was a ground shift in Florida after the collapse. Our Counties and State took steps to evaluate the building safety requirements to make recommendations on changes to close loopholes with the system to help prevent it happening again. I actually served on Broward County’s Taskforce. No longer can condos owners Waive Reserves. Condos MUST do milestone inspections and then provide a plan to place Funds in Reserves. This ensures much-needed repairs or replacements are already funded in their Budgets. The majority of people in the audience had more questions about the costs than the concept. In my opinion this was a good sign. The discussion was more around costs and how people, particularly seniors, can pay for Reserves. The Senator was very empathic but also shared that the super majority of Representatives and Senators will not support a bailout for unit owners. There is a disconnect since many do not understand the issue and believe many units are simply second homes. He will be working on making sure there are other financial vehicles through lenders to help those unable to pay up front and also vehicles for the Condominiums to borrow Funds. The concept of what is included in the Milestone Inspections was also touched on. The Senator suggested that some of the items on the list which was created, were too broad. He also discussed that condos that are already doing repairs such as Roof and Concrete Restoration can be considered for collecting reserves. Items such as a roof that may last 15 – 20 years can be addressed when the end-of-life date triggers the milestone. As with any new laws there definitely needs to be more clarity. Another huge issue discussed was the Department of Business And Professional Regulations. It is obvious that this department is understaffed and not budgeted properly. His goal is to separate out Condominiums and have a free-standing agency. In addition, create more teeth in what they can do. The senator also discussed making the Breach Of Regulations more stringent and in some cases criminal. The other topic was insurance. We all know that the rates have skyrocketed. They have always been gradually going up, but the past two years have been the worst with the rates having tripled. Our average home rate is 6,000 per year whereas the national average is 1,500. The Senator shared some eye-opening information about what the state did. With the changes in regular citizens not being able to challenge insurance companies without going into their own pockets to cover legal fees. The law will create more insurance companies. He actually told the story about one Senator approaching him to join a group creating a company. In Florida, all you need is to put $15 Million Dollars in the bank to start up a company. Then that company contracts with the secondary market for reinsurance. Obviously he said no to the other senator and made it clear that he believes that it is a conflict of interest. Just another example of what our lawmakers are doing to help themselves, not their constituents. The senator also commented on the Vacation Rental and the Home Business Laws which were passed last year. He told us the business bill was created by a northern member whose wife ran a baking business at their home. She was getting fined by the city for receiving tractor trailer deliveries of flour to her home during the evening and early morning hours. There are rules that we can implement and have to offset the adverse effects of this new law. But for now, if I want to open a commercial kitchen in half of my home and have people pick up food or deliver food it can be done. This goes for any business that could have environmental impacts. The Vacation Rental Bill was also lobbied by real estate owners wanting to make more money from their properties without Local Government interference. Some areas like the Florida Keys already had regulations but areas like Hallandale Beach had to create some controls. We all have been prevented from banning them. There is a glitch bill already filed reconfirming condominiums have the authority to ban Vacation Rentals as long as their bylaws address Rental Regulations. We did not discuss it at length, but it is more than likely it will help stave off litigation from unit owners challenging the bylaws. As I shared earlier, committee week is just starting. Senator Pizzo has the ability to file as many bills as he would like since he is State Senate Minority Leader. He did not specifically cover what bills he had filed. At the end of the meeting, he requested to hold another meeting at a future date. The meeting was recorded, and our Staff is working on closed captioning so the recording can be placed online. As always, please feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City a better place! I am available at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or at: joycooper@aol.com . On my Office number at: (954) 457-1318. Or on my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. You can always visit my Facebook and follow me at Mayor Joy Cooper. < Previous News Next News >