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 >

A Message From The City Manager: The Sunny Isles Beach Proposed Budget And Capital Improvement Program By Stan Morris, Sunny Isles Beach City Manager - www.sibfl.net October 20, 2022 Share In accordance with Article IV Section 4.5 of the Charter of the City of Sunny Isles Beach, I am pleased to present to you the Proposed Comprehensive Budget and 5-Year Capital Improvement Program for FY 2022-2023. When we started this process, I had four main goals to accomplish. The first goal was to involve the City Commission in the development of the priorities for this next Fiscal Year. Through Individual Meetings with the Commission and our Administrative Team, we were able to freely discuss what the goals were for the future of our City. A special thank you to the Commission for their guidance and open dialogue to discuss what the vision and goals are for this upcoming year. Their message was clear and the recurring theme included Public Safety and reducing our Millage Rate. The second goal was to thoroughly involve the Staff in this process. As it is, the Department Heads and their team that must execute the work that this Budget represents, they need to be involved at every step. After they heard your vision, they were tasked with doing the research to provide a Professional Assessment of what was possible, how to do it and what it would cost. Simultaneously, our Assistant City Manager, Audra Curts-Whann performed a full 5-Year Review, line by line, of the actual expenditure for each Department. Working with our Finance Director Tiffany Neely, every Department met individually with them and my Office for a thorough review of what they had spent historically to identify where surplus may be cut. Every Department was directed to look at their Budget from a fresh perspective, prioritizing needs over wants. Every Department Head was provided the tools they needed to get to work and submit a comprehensive, responsible Budget. This was followed by one-on-one Meetings with each Department and my Office to review their submissions. We scrutinized each division and cut where it was possible and added where necessary to meet the vision you provided. I thank our Finance Team and our Department Heads who took on this challenge and made the hard decisions to provide this Balanced Budget that asked to do more with less. The third goal was to develop a Budget that remained fiscally responsible, could lower the Millage Rate and ensure that our residents continue to receive the high-quality services that they expect while fulfilling the initiatives set by the Commission. This Budget achieves these goals. The filing of the 2022-2023 Fiscal Year Budget reflects an assessed value that has increased by $1.1 Billion from last year and we have a Budget that reduces the Millage Rate to 2.0 Mills per $1,000 of Assessed Value. This has resulted in an unprecedented tenth year that our City has lowered the Tax Rate. In 2021, our Budget was 9.5% higher than the prior year, then, in 2022 our Budget was 7.6% higher as compared to this Proposed Operating Budget which is only 4.0% more than Last Year’s Operating Budget. Between the supply chain issues, the extraordinary increase in CPI of over 10.6% from June 2021 to June 2022, and the “Great Resignation” of 2021 that continues to affect every corner of our Country in both the Public and Private Sectors, we developed a Budget that keeps us competitive in the Employment Market. This is critical to recruit and retain qualified personnel to maintain the quality of life for our residents. Fiscal Responsibility is at the forefront of our entire Management Team. The phrase “do more with less” has been felt by every Department these past few years where they had to do more work with less staff (for less pay than their counterparts in other cities). We are fortunate to have the Dedicated Team that we have that has kept the wheels turning throughout the Pandemic and the aftermath that has left us all working in unprecedented times and conditions. As we continue to navigate this Post-Pandemic World, we developed a Budget that is conservative on our Revenues and hopeful in our Expenses. We hope to be able to fill every vacant position. We hope to purchase every Budgeted Item. We hope to fulfill every Commission Goal. Finally, the fourth and to me, most important Goal remains to be fully transparent. When I took this position, I promised to be fully transparent in my decisions and actions. I hide nothing and welcome your questions and comments. I worked closely with the Commission, The Finance Department and City Staff to present an honest and Manageable Budget. This Budget advances our initiatives in sustainability, innovation, safety and quality. We also met with members of our Public with expertise in Finance who provided additional insight. We listened to the residents through Public Outreach, Surveys and worked closely with our Commission and Dedicated Staff to deliver this fully transparent, thorough and Comprehensive Budget that fulfills several initiatives as proposed by our community in a cost-effective and fiscally responsible manner. General Fund As stated, The Budget provides for a reduction in the Property Tax Rate, reflecting a Millage Rate of 2.0 Mills per $1,000 of Assessed Value. This is achievable even with only a 11.32% increase in our Taxable Value of all property within the City. It is important to note that this includes $255 Million of Property Value Decrease due to reassessments, $1.2 Billion increase of Property Values and over $197 Million of New Construction added to the Tax Rolls in our City this year. Our City’s Assessed Value will slowly increase over the next few Fiscal Years as New Construction continues at a slower pace than previous years. There are currently seven approved development projects, four of which are under construction. There was also one project completed, which added 320 residential units. All these projects contribute to our Increased Revenue from such sources as Building Department Fees, Bonus Payments, Funds from Transferable Development Rights (TDR), Impact Fees and ultimately Property Tax Revenue. The Revenue for the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 General Fund is $47,899,558, which represents an increase of $7,289,215, or 17.9%, from the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Adopted Budget. The changes in various Revenue Categories are outlined below: Property Tax Revenues reflect an increase of $976,905 due to the increase in Property Values offset by the 1/10 reduction in the Millage Rate. The City’s Assessed Value as reported by the Property Appraiser is $13,781,795,040, which is a $1,145,952,354 increase over 2021-2022. The recent history of the City’s Taxable Values are provided below. Franchise Fees are estimated to increase by $575,000. The City entered into an Agreement with Florida Power & Light for Franchise Fees to be paid monthly effective as of May 2020. Due to the New Construction being added to the Tax Roll, higher Proposed Revenues are anticipated. Utility Tax Revenues are estimated to increase by $50,000 due to New Construction being added to the Tax Roll. Communications Services Tax Revenues are expected to decrease slightly by $20,000. Revenues from Licenses/Permits are expected to decrease by $2,000 primarily related to the reduction in the Vacant Property Registry. Intergovernmental Revenues for State Revenue Sharing are projected to increase by $79,812 and Local Government Half-Cent Sales Taxes are expected to increase by $165,116 over the prior year. Charges for Services are expected to increase by $202,500 over the prior year. This is primarily due to the Parking Fee Collections of $31,000, Recreational Programs of $166,500 and Police Overtime Reimbursements from the Federal Government of $5,000. Fines and Forfeitures are estimated to increase by $335,000 due to Increased Parking Fines and Code Compliance Citations. Miscellaneous Revenues are expected to increase by $366,575 primarily due to Rental Income from The Navarro Property. Transfers are estimated to increase by $4,560,307 due to the American Rescue Plan Act Funds being transferred to the General Fund and utilized for the provision of Governmental Services. The Proposed General Fund Budget expenditures (not including Transfers out to other Funds) increased to $44,461,238, which represents an increase of $1,875,658, or 4.4%, from Fiscal Year 2021-2022. Expenditures have increased primarily due to: (1) Compensation Adjustments, Retirement System Contributions and Health Insurance ($1,821,063), (2) Additional Departmental needs ($456,874) offset by (3) a reduction in Debt Payments due to Lower Principal Payments (-$8,868) and a reduction in Capital Outlay Needs (-$333,411) and a reduction in other disbursements for Election Expenses (-$60,000). Street Maintenance And Construction Fund Major revenue sources in the Street Maintenance and Construction Fund include Intergovernmental Revenues such as State Revenue Sharing, Transportation Surtax and Local Option Fuel Tax. This fund was developed for the benefit of segregating the uses of this Revenue Source. The Fund Accounts for the costs related to Transportation, Street Construction and Maintenance Programs. The total budget is $3,294,572. Building Fund Major Revenue Sources in the Building Fund include: Fees Generated from Building Permits and Inspections. This Fund was developed for the benefit of segregating the uses of this Revenue Source. This Fund Accounts for the costs related to the Administration and Enforcement of the Building Code. This coming year, we are gearing up for the New Legislation recently passed, Senate Bill 4-D, requiring Proactive Milestone Inspections of Condominiums. Revenues, not including Appropriated Fund Balance, are $3,598,762, a decrease of $1,454,238 from the prior year and expenditures are $5,252,959, an increase of $1,122,200 from the Prior Year. The excess of expenditures over Revenues this Fiscal Year are funded by the Carryover (Fund Balance) of previous Years Revenues. Public Art Trust Fund This Fund was created in 2014-2015 for the benefit of segregating the use of Public Art Trust Fund Revenues to purchase and maintain Art within the City. The Total Budget is $1,417,887, a decrease of $205,955 from the prior year. The Public Arts Advisory Committee (PAAC) Public Art Program was approved and Commission Adopted in 2020. The Program contains a Five-Year Strategic Work Plan with one of the first Projects involving a Meditation Garden located in the western area of Town Center Park. This Project is fully funded for and construction is expected to begin this year! Sunny Spaces was developed in Celebration of The City’s 25th Anniversary and under the initiative of the Public Art Program. The Sunny Spaces Art Contest launched in May 2022 and received over 78 eligible submissions from 59 different Artists. The community was asked to paint, or hand draw an original piece incorporating the theme of a sun. Up to 25 submissions will be recreated as a public art installation within the City. Sunny Spaces aims to bring the community together through the Visual Arts by co-creating artistic spaces curated by our residents. The goal is to shed light on our talented Artists while increasing accessibility to the Arts in our community. Sunny Spaces aspires to be the premier showcase of Local Art for our community. Sunny Spaces and Gateway Artway will be unveiled in Winter 2023 and will be publicly accessible for residents and visitors to enjoy, including Art Activations at City Events. American Rescue Plan Act Of 2021 Fund This fund was created to Segregate Fiscal Recovery Funds as a result of the United States Congress passing the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”). It was signed into the Law creating the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund for the purpose of providing funds to Local Governments in order to facilitate the Ongoing Recovery from the COVID-19 Pandemic (“Fiscal Recovery Funds”). ARPA allocated over $7 Billion for making payments to metropolitan cities. The City entered into an Agreement in September 2021 with The State Of Florida, Division Of Emergency Management as a Non-Entitlement Unit to receive its allocation of $10,920,613 from the State. The first half of the allocation was received in October 2021 and the second half was received in August 2022. The total allocation will be utilized for the provision of Government Services and Necessary Investments in Water and Sewer Infrastructure. Enterprise Funds The City has a Stormwater Operating Fund and a Stormwater Capital Projects Fund. The Stormwater Operating Fund is primarily self-supporting and has Budgeted Revenues of $1,002,000, which is primarily the same as the prior year. This Fund incurs costs to ensure Compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit. Stormwater Capital Projects are funded by the Local Option Fuel Tax and Transfers in from the Stormwater Operating Fund, as available. Accumulated Fund Balance (Carryover) will be utilized for Drainage. The City is in the Design Phase of the Central Island Drainage Project to improve its Stormwater Pumping Capacity. Capital Improvement Program The Capital Improvement Program concentrates on the Development of Parks, Infrastructure and Rehabilitation of our Facilities including: Major Road Resurfacing, Sidewalk Improvements and Pedestrian Safety. A Capital Improvement Project generally exceeds $25,000 and has a useful life of five years or more. The City has been successful in leveraging City Dollars to obtain Grant Awards and Legislative Appropriations for some Capital Projects and will continue to seek these where possible. The City has one Capital Projects Fund, The Capital Improvement Program Fund, which is funded by a Transfer from the General Fund, Grants, Impact Fees, Other Development Fees and Contributions/Donations. The Capital Projects, which total $26,726,614 (including $19,316,614 Carryover from the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year), are recommended and funded by The Capital Improvement Program Fund. All of The Capital Improvement Projects requested and proposed for this year are fully detailed in our Proposed Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) located in the CIP section of this document. Please note that many Capital Projects are Multi-Year Endeavors. Conclusion In conclusion, our 2022-2023 Fiscal Year Budget is one that is presented with transparency and represents our Meetings with Elected Officials both individually and as a group, as well as, Meeting with members of the Public to ensure that their needs and requests were heard. Our goal is to maintain Fiscal Responsibility while providing the utmost level of High-Quality Services our residents and visitors have come to expect. This work could not have been accomplished without the input and vision of The Mayor, Vice Mayor and Commissioners, the direction of our Finance Director, Tiffany Neely and the Finance Department Team and our Department Directors. On behalf of Deputy City Manager Susan Simpson and Assistant City Manager Audra Curts-Whann, we express our sincere thanks and gratitude. Respectfully submitted, Stan Morris - City Manager < Previous News Next News >