Discover How Willy Became...WONKA: Family Film Series Presented By The City Of Aventura May 15, 2024 Share As the summer sun blazes down in June, families in the vibrant city of Aventura are in for a treat—a cinematic journey into the whimsical world of Willy Wonka. Presented by the City of Aventura, this family film series invites you to join the adventure for free, but don't forget to snag your tickets in advance for this enchanting experience. While this event is free, tickets are required for entry. You can secure your tickets through Ticketmaster or in person at the Box Office. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, with space limited to the first 330 guests who reserve a ticket. But don't worry if you miss out initially; a standby line will be available, and additional guests may be admitted depending on available seating. The excitement begins as the lobby opens at 10:00 a.m., allowing families to immerse themselves in the anticipation of the magical journey ahead. Seating in the auditorium opens at 10:30 a.m., ensuring everyone has ample time to settle in before the adventure unfolds on the big screen. Date: Sunday, June 23rd, 2024 Time: 11:00 AM Venue: Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Price: Free Event. RSVP Required Families with little ones need not worry—lap tickets are available for children 12 months and under, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience together. While outside food and drinks are not permitted, fear not! The lobby offers a delightful array of snacks and beverages available for purchase. For those looking to elevate their movie experience, pre-ordering the "Snack Pack" not only saves $5 off concession stand prices but also ensures you have all your favorites ready to enjoy. Each Snack Pack includes a choice of beverage, a bag of savory snacks, and a delectable Hoffman’s Chocolate Bar—truly the perfect accompaniment to the cinematic adventure unfolding before your eyes. The Film Prepare to be enchanted by "Wonka," a spectacular adventure that delves into the origins of one of literature's most beloved characters. Starring Timothée Chalamet in the titular role, this film chronicles the extraordinary journey of Willy Wonka, the world's greatest inventor, magician, and chocolate-maker. Adapted from Roald Dahl's timeless classic, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," this tale weaves magic, music, mayhem, and emotion into a heartwarming and humorous narrative. With a runtime of 112 minutes, "Wonka" promises an immersive experience suitable for the whole family, earning a PG rating for its enchanting storyline and captivating visuals. Book your ticket today so your family can embark on a journey into the fantastical world of Willy Wonka. With free admission, delightful snacks, and a heartwarming tale of discovery and adventure, this family film series promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. So mark your calendars and get ready to discover how Willy became... WONKA! Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. You can purchase tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. Parking FREE parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

Serving The Community: Auto Tags Of Hallandale Celebrating Over 30 Years Of Service By Austin Torres May 17, 2023 Share Among the many businesses in South Florida, few can say that they have been open for over 30 years. Thanks to the committed and outstanding customer service of founder, Randy Giunto, Auto Tags of Hallandale is one of those few exceptional businesses that are able to celebrate that milestone. Through their unwavering dedication to delivering customer satisfaction and their “old school” approach to business, Auto Tags of Hallandale can proudly say they have been around since 1987 and are showing no signs of slowing down. Randy, whose family roots in the area can be traced back over a half-century, attended elementary and middle school right here in the city. As a young man, he enjoyed playing many sports like baseball and football at City Park (Bluesten Park) and since then, not much has changed. Randy is still a major sports fanatic and his outgoing attitude and love of people have continued to make him a pillar of the community. Randy has built a remarkable reputation through his various relationships in the community. His love of people and desire to always give back to the community he grew up in, has garnered him an enormous and varying network of clientele from far and wide. Few can say that they have had the privilege of being in business for as long as Randy has. “I never left,” says Randy. “To be a part of this community for so long has really meant so much to me and our family. Through the years, even though we were based in Hallandale, we started to pick up new customers from all over.” Randy’s experience assisting customers with a title, tag, renewal or the proper motor vehicle documents has helped establish Auto Tags of Hallandale as a premier business in South Florida. They offer a variety of services that include assistance in registering your vehicle, updating your decal, or replacing it if it has been lost or stolen. If you are a new resident to Florida and the City of Hallandale Beach and need to register your vehicle, then Auto Tags of Hallandale can assist you in this process. Bring in your vehicle's title from the state from which you are moving, proof of Florida insurance and a valid driver's license or passport. For those of you who have lost your plate or decal, you can come in with your valid driver's license and your signature on the replacement form, which can be found via a link on their website at: www.autotagsofhallandale.com and apply for a new one. If your plate or decal was stolen, then you can come with the same form and your license and the team at Auto Tags of Hallandale will also assist you in the application process. However, Auto Tags of Hallandale not only assists customers with tags, titles and renewals for automobiles, but they can also assist you with trucks, boats, motorcycles, mobile homes, trailers and they will even provide notary service. Whatever the issue is, you can certainly always count on Randy and the team at Auto Tags of Hallandale to take care of your needs with a warm attention to detail and a commitment, that truly makes them stand out in a way that keeps clients coming back for more. Auto Tags of Hallandale’s client list include businesses such as: Total Appliance, Wind Chill, LLC, Cusano’s Bakery and Lee’s Locksmith & Bicycle Shop. “The only way to stay in business in South Florida, is through building long lasting relationships with our customers. That’s why so many of our customers and clients will tell you that they won’t go anywhere else for their vehicle registration needs,” says Randy. Little has changed at Auto Tags of Hallandale since they opened their doors to customers back in 1987. You can still expect the same warm welcome and authenticity from Randy that has made him such a popular figure in the area. In October of 2022, Auto Tags of Hallandale celebrated their fourth year at their new location in the popular 7th Avenue Village Shops. “What a great location, our loyal customers will find us quickly, but we are also excited about the new business that will walk in daily. We are right behind Marco’s Pizza and next to World Of Hearing,” said Randy. For those of you interested in visiting Auto Tags of Hallandale you can check out their location at 701 West Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Suite#: 106 Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009.You can also contact Randy directly at: 954.456.5771. Additionally, you can visit their website at: www.autotagsofhallandale.com < Previous News Next News >

The Delta Variant & The Building Department: Hallandale Beach Officials Are Working On Health & Safety Throughout The City By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper July 29, 2021 Share The City of Hallandale Beach let go their Building Official and two permit clerks resigned as well. With the Chaplain Towers collapse there has been a heightened awareness of all aspects of building and building safety As fear is beginning to grip our Nation over the Delta variant, we all need to remain vigilant. Recently, I received a call from a resident, who was not calling about herself, but about our many seniors that are now questioning what they can and cannot do. Obviously, they all need to be vaccinated. It is safe and it does help to prevent getting the virus. There has been a break through, but those cases are rare. There is also the rare case, that those vaccinated, may still catch the Viral Delta Strain. I have a longtime friend from Philadelphia who is a doctor. He is certified and specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Elder Care. In a conversation, he explained that he has seen a few patients, that have caught the Delta Strain, after being vaccinated. He did tell us, that they are not getting severe cases, like he has seen over the past year and half. He is telling his patients to wear their masks and continue to follow the CDC's Guidelines, by wearing a mask, washing your hands often and practice, social distancing. Here in Florida, our Governor has kept the course of business, as usual. I had to tell the young lady who called me as a mayor, that our hands are tied. We have been preempted from establishing mask mandates and regulations to limit business operations. He has even doubled down in his battle against cruise ships. During COVID-19, we were informed that Condominiums, do have more leeway in establishing rules within their buildings. Legally, condo boards will have to ask their attorneys what they can do particularly, when it comes to masks and other rules. It is particularly alarming that our Broward infection rates have climbed higher. The last update we have received it was 13%. Our hospitals are once again getting overloaded. Sadly, we are seeing young adults and teenagers ending up in the ICU’s. As a grandparent, I was so happy that my Grandson got his doses of the vaccine. He was fine after the first one, but, he was a bit tired, after the second one. I am now, really concerned about my younger grandchildren, who will be starting PreK 4, on August 10th and I am sure that many of the other parents are concerned too. The message is getting the vaccine, as soon as it is available and if you are at high risk, wear a mask. In other business, our City let go of our Building Official and two permit clerks resigned. With the collapse of the Chaplain Towers, there have been, heightened awareness of all aspects of buildings and building safety. I need to note, we have never stopped processing permits, our Staff continues working diligently and to date, we have an acting Building Official and we have hired, two clerks. Recently, you may have seen a Channel 10 report of complaints about our Building Department. I must share that we know that no one likes to have to file, for permits. It is a complex and arduous process. Our department is required by law to protect and serve our residents and ensure that permits, meet the stringent requirements set by the state and the Board of Rules and Appeals, we will never sign off on incomplete permits. Every applicant is different, every permit is different and the process must be thorough, for everyone’s safety. The news report, was a result of a Town Hall Meeting, at the Hemispheres Condominium, where many residents vocalized their frustrations, over work that had still been not completed. At the meeting, one of the contractor/engineers was pointing fingers to the City and to our building department. I received a heads up from a resident that was at the meeting. Once I received this information, I got right to work to find out what had transpired and where the communication had been broken down. It turns out, that this contractor had filed a permit last year. The building department had made comments on the permit that were not addressed by the contractor. In addition, he had not signed his permit documentation properly. At that time, the permit had expired, it was reinstated. While this was during COVID-19, our Staff, was still working, but with limited office hours and it, still sat incomplete. In May, the contractor filed a new permit and at that time, our Staff had made comments, that, once again were not responded to, actually three times. He needed to submit required documents from the County, as well as basic information from what I could see in the permit. When I was asked by the press what was going on, I informed them, that we were working with the contractors, but there were many issues impacting the results. My main goal was to ensure that the permit was taken care of. I have written about permitting, many times and will continue to work with any resident, board and contractor, when it comes to glitches or human error within the system and from applicants not submitting, required informa-tion. Our department cannot sign off on, insufficient permits. They will work with applicants, but, applicants have a responsibility, too. The process goes as such. All permits are required to be signed off by licensed, registered, insured contractors and subcontractors. Even with owner builders, plans must meet, the same requirements. Obviously, the permits must meet all building codes. Many permits are required to be signed off by Broward County, for asbestos certifications. The permit is uploaded by the applicant and they receive a note, once it was received. The permit is now in our hands and goes through the review cycle. Comments are made by each inspector that are involved. This can include structural, electrical, plumbing, zoning and building. If any items are deficient, they are noted. It is up to the applicants to follow the permit, make corrections and resubmit it. We will upload documents, if an applicant is having issues for a fee. We know that some individuals do not have the technology to submit permits, we are here to help and we also, realize there is always the possibility of human error, on all sides. The cycle for comments under normal circumstances, should be less than 7 Business Days. Due to COVID-19 and the Staffing issues, the process has been taking longer and currently, it has been three up to 3 weeks. We cannot make corrections, it is solely up to the applicants. It also needs to be noted, that our City Hall is open Monday to Thursday 8-6. The Building Department takes walk-ins between 8-4. You can also make an appointment. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City, a better place, on my phone/text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can e-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit my Facebook Page: MayorJoyCooper. Like It! Friend It! Share It! < Previous News Next News >

Four Decades Of Music, Pride And Community - South Florida Pride Concert Band The XL Concert: 40 Years Of Musical Excellence South Florida Sun Times Mar 26, 2026 The South Florida Pride Concert Band’s Season-Concluding Concert Will Be Supersized. The Oldest Lgbtq Arts Organization In The State Of Florida Is Celebrating 40 Years Of Music, Community And Pride With A Spectacular Anniversary Performance, The Xl Concert: 40 Years Of Musical Excellence, Presented By The Bears Of South Florida On Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 At 7:00 p.m. At The Parker. For one unforgettable night, audiences will be taken on a high-energy musical journey spanning four decades of standout moments from the band’s history, brought to life by special guest performers and multiple ensembles. The milestone concert will feature appearances by founding band members, a special performance by the FLoatarama High School Soloist Competition winner, and featured sets by the South Florida Pride Jazz Band and South Florida Pride Steel Band. The evening will also pay special homage to Dan Bassett, who for the past 20 years has served as the band’s Artistic Director and helped elevate the NonProfit to new heights. During the concert, Bassett will ceremoniously pass the baton to incoming Artistic Director Sara Cowley, an accomplished musician and longtime member of the organization who will lead the band into its next chapter. “Reaching 40 years is an extraordinary milestone for our organization and our community,” said Bassett. “The XL Concert is both a celebration and a poignant retrospective of our history as we look toward the future. Sharing the stage with founding members, our jazz and steel bands, and outstanding young musicians while passing the baton to new leadership will make this a powerful and emotional night of music and pride.” With powerful performances, surprise moments and a celebratory retrospective of the organization’s legacy, The XL Concert honors the band’s impact as a cornerstone of South Florida’s cultural and community landscape. Tickets are $45. For tickets and event details, visit: www.parkerplayhouse.com/events/detail/sfl-pride-concert-band-xl-concert For more information, contact: (954) 667-9228. Or: info@southfloridapridebands.org . About South Florida Pride Bands The South Florida Pride Band consists of more than 80 musicians of all skill levels who present three annual concerts for the LGBTQ community and its allies in South Florida. Now in its 40th Season, South Florida Pride Bands, Inc. and its component ensembles provide a safe and educational environment where LGBTQ musicians, youth and allies can perform quality music for the LGBTQ and greater South Florida communities. Previous Next

Be Water Smart: Tips to Ensure a Safe Swim Season April 25, 2024 Share Florida leads the country in drowning deaths of children ages 1–4, and it can happen in the very few minutes it takes to answer a phone call or run inside for a quick task. To reduce the risk of drowning, use multiple layers of protection when around a swimming pool, bathtub, lake or ocean. To learn more, visit: www.watersmartfl.com "Dry drowning" can occur after a person is submerged or inhales water through the nose or mouth, causing a spasm in the airway and difficulty breathing. Dry drowning can occur less than one hour after inhaling water. If a person is rescued from a "near" drowning, and they continue to cough or have difficulty breathing, call 9-1-1- and seek medical attention immediately. Helpful Tips to Ensure Safety Around Water: • Supervision: Always watch kids closely when they’re in or near the water. • Have a dedicated watcher: When gathering in large groups, assign one adult to watch one or two specific children, so someone is always looking out for kids. • Choose the right location to swim: Swim near a lifeguard. If you’re swimming in areas without a lifeguard, don’t do so alone. Make sure someone knows where you are and is keeping an eye out. • Install perimeter protection: Install fences and gates around pools. • Pay attention to safety warnings. If a beach or pool has “No swimming!” signs, take that seriously, even if things look safe. There’s usually a good reason why you shouldn’t take a dip. Additional Resources: • Check out Learn to Swim options available in Hollywood and find coupons for reduced rates for kids’ swim lessons • Watch the City of Hollywood’s swim safety video for helpful hints and tips: YouTube Video • Coupon for swim lessons - https://watersmartbroward.org/swim-coupon/ • Visit: www.watersmartfl.com Operation Paintbrush Give your house a makeover with free recycled paint from the City of Hollywood! Operation Paintbrush provides up to 20 gallons of high-quality exterior latex paint for free to single-family homeowners and non-profit organizations in Hollywood. 100% of the latex paint collected through the Broward County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program is recycled into new, high-quality exterior paint which is then provided to participating cities at no cost. Paint can be picked up at the Department of Public Works, Saturday, April 27th from 8 a.m. until noon at 1600 S. Park Road in Hollywood beginning at 8 a.m. Distribution is on a first-come, first-served basis while the City's supply lasts. To participate, you must provide your current driver’s license with Hollywood address and a current utility bill as proof of Hollywood residency. The paint colors offered are off-white, beige, terracotta, gray, and turquoise. < Previous News Next News >

You Do Make A Difference Thu Oct 20 2022 16:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

August Icons: The Broward Center Is Home To Some Superstars This Month July 26, 2023 Share During the heat of August, Legendary Troubadour Jackson Browne, revered Reggae Superstar Beres Hammond, a celebration of Pink Floyd and the heroic PAW Patrol pups deliver cool and refreshing shows at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Jackson Browne brings his full band to the Au-Rene Theater on Tuesday, August 1st, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. With hits such as ”Running On Empty,” “Doctor My Eyes,” “Somebody’s Baby” and “The Pretender,” Browne also Co-Wrote the Eagles' classic “Take It Easy.” Browne helped launch the singer-songwriter movement based in Laurel Canyon, California that was also home to Joni Mitchell, David Crosby, Bonnie Raitt and Frank Zappa. Known for his advocacy on behalf of the environment, human rights, and arts education, Browne is the Co-Founder of Musicians United for Safe Energy, www.Nukefree.org and a member of Ocean Advocacy Group Ocean Elders. Tickets begin at $49.50 with $179.50 Spirit Club Level Seats. Nickelodeon and VStar Entertainment Group proudly present PAW Patrol Live! “Heroes Unite” in the Au-Rene Theater as part of The Islands of the Bahamas Imagination Series. This brand-new production is an interactive live stage show, where members of the audience get to be heroes unleashed, helping the pups as honorary members of the pack, while they navigate the globe to make it back to Adventure Bay in the nick of time. PAW Patrol Live! “Heroes Unite” follows Ryder and the PAW Patrol pups as they face their greatest challenge yet. When Mayor Humdinger clones Robo Dog, chaos ensues all over the world. It’s up to the PAW Patrol to catch the clones, rescue Robo Dog, and show that when the going gets “ruff,” lending a paw makes audience members the ultimate Top Hero! Featuring stunning visual effects, captivating storytelling and a vibrant musical score that will have guests dancing in their seats and singing along, this staged extravaganza is jam-packed with action and fun for the whole family. Performances are Saturday, August 19th, 2023 at 10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. and on Sunday, August 20th, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Tickets start at $45 with $10 lap tickets for children ages 12 months and younger. A limited number of V.I.P. (Very Important Pup) Packages are available, starting at $130 that includes a Premium Seat and Exclusive Photo Opp with PAW Patrol characters after the show. The Jamaican Reggae Superstar and undisputed king of lovers rock Beres Hammond brings his “Forever Giving Thanks'' tour to the Au-Rene Theater at Broward Center on Saturday, August 26th, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, August 27th, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. Famous for his soulful vibe and smoky-sweet, bourbon-on-the-rocks vocals, this Grammy® Award–Nominated singer-songwriter is known as the "Otis Redding of Reggae.” His extensive hit list includes the songs "Tempted to Touch,""I Feel Good,""Putting Up Resistance,""Rockaway" and "No Disturb Sign." Born in the Jamaican province of St. Mary, Hammond grew up listening to his father's collection of American R&B and Jazz, and also fell in love with native Jamaican music during the ska and rocksteady eras. Tickets start at $39 with $139 Spirit Club Level Seats. Having sold 4 million tickets worldwide and described by The Times as "The Gold Standard" and The Daily Mirror as "The Kings of the Genre," The Australian Pink Floyd brings its “Darkside 50” tour to the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center on Thursday, August 31st, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. In addition to having performed in over 35 countries, they played at original Pink Floyd Member David Gilmour's 50th birthday celebration and were even joined on stage by Pink Floyd’s Rick Wright. Performing the music of Pink Floyd with note for note perfection, this critically acclaimed tribute show strives to reproduce the Pink Floyd Experience and bring the music to new audiences. The show continues to include a stunning Light and Laser Show, Video Animations, State-Of-The-Art High Resolution LED Screen Technology and other special effects. To accompany these visuals are several large inflatables including a giant pig and their own distinct Pink Kangaroo. Tickets begin at $39.50 with $140.50 Spirit Club Level seats and $199 VIP Packages that include a pre-show sound check and other exclusives. Also in August, the Miami Hispanic Ballet Corp. presents the XXVIII International Ballet Festival of Miami on Sunday, August 6th, 2023. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and Parker Playhouse. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222 or in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316. Like them on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter and at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation and follow them on Twitter and Instagram at: @BrowardCenter, subscribe to their channel at: www.Youtube.com/user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with #BrowardCenter. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org < Previous News Next News >

"Celebrating Hallandale Beach First Responders" Mayor Joy Cooper Recognizes Dedication and Community Support By Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper August 17, 2023 Share This past Wednesday morning Commissioner Michele Lazarow, Commissioner Joy Adams and I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a breakfast meeting to recognize our first responders. This new quarterly event is being organized by the Hallandale Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and was cosponsored by Memorial Hospital and Oasis. Oasis is the brand-new State-Of-The-Art Mixed-Use Development located at 1100 Hallandale Beach Boulevard. It was such an honor to join in and recognize our Police Department Sergeant Jennifer Higgins and from Broward County BSO Battalion Chief Brian Powell. It has been quite some time since the Hallandale Beach Chamber Of Commerce has done this type of event and we are just so happy they have taken the initiative to celebrate the fine men and women of our departments that protect and serve our community 24/7/365. As Elected Officials, we get to know many of these individuals and truly understand that they not only respond to calls. They go over and above. They ensure that they take the utmost care in addressing critical incidents and the victims that have been involved. It's not news to anyone that over the past five plus years there has been unrest around our nation involving Police Departments. I must say that the incidences that spark devastating riots are not without merit. Departments all have life and death incidents and challenges. It is up to the cities how they are addressed, evaluated and used to improve operations. Our Department for time due to Elected Officials pandering to the national movement to defund police had taken our department and City through very dark times. Luckily we are no longer that city. For years Vice Mayor Annabelle Taub, whose husband is a police officer, continued to ring the bell about Crime and the regretful path our City had gone down placating or manipulating the defund movement. It is a new day in our City and our Commission is the most civil unified Commission our City has seen in over 10 years. We are fully united and support our Police Department 110%. Over the past five years we have made a firm commitment to ensure we continue to invest in technology and continued training efforts for all our Police Officers. Under the leadership of new Chief Michel Michel and his Command Staff that is truly committed to old school community policing our Police Department is fully accredited. We are also on our way to fulfilling the goal of having zero vacancies. This combined with the leadership of City Manager Dr. Earle, we have continued these efforts and I can say through the history of our City we have just gone through the best and most civil union negotiations. We have ensured our officers continue to receive everything they need to know to do their job successfully and receive the just compensation they deserve. This mandate is not simply about salaries, it is about parity and Police Retention. Please don't get these comments wrong. Like every city we do have Crime. We have adopted a Zero Tolerance for Lawlessness. Every resident still has to be vigilant and partner with the City. We all need to do our part in reporting Crime and making sure that we are aware of our surroundings and secure our properties. Sadly, just like in the news there has been gang violence taking place. I assure our residents that the departments are working with Inter-Agency Task Forces to address these Crimes, make arrests, get Illegal Guns off of our street and bring these people to justice. Sergeant Jennifer Higgins has been involved through the Detective Unit to solve some of these Crimes. According to department records she's made over 50 plus arrests and as recently 3 arrests that included seizing Illegal Firearms. Sergeant Higgins is an exceptional Law Enforcement officer and more importantly she is a community policing officer. She goes over and beyond serving our community. It's not unusual for her to have toys and gift items in her car to help people that are in need and victims. We commend her continued service to our community. BSO Chief Master in charge of Hallandale Beach Fire Services was on hand to receive an Award for Battalion Chief Brian Powell. As our residents know we contracted this service out to BSO. We have many new officers and some old officers that are excellent public servants. These FireFighters and EMT’s or like I say “the boots on the ground,” serve our residents during the most traumatic circumstances. They help countless victims and save lives. It's a bit ironic but I had a unique circumstance meeting with Chief Brian Powell for the first time a week ago. I had a freak accident in my home and my Husband was all the way up in Pompano for a meeting. I try to keep my personal life to myself as these articles aren't about me and actually this comment is not about me but the service the EMT's and Chief performed. You see, their service didn't stop after I was taken to the ER. They continued to ensure that the nurse caring for my 93-year-old mom was reassured I was OK. Many residents are unaware but if needed we will do well checks. They went back to my home to make sure they were ok, and the house was made safe. As I said many of our first responders go over and above their call to duty and we salute them. I also want to go on record and repeat what I've said in the past. While Commissioner Butler and I have vocally opposed the merger this opposition was never against any of these officers that put their lives on the line. It has always been about open and transparent evaluation and utilization of our taxpayer dollars. Currently there is a full audit and assessment being performed about Fire Services here in our City, so that discussion will be for another day. 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 by Email at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or: joycooper@aol.com . At my Office: (954) 457-1318. Or Cell/Text at: 954-632-5700. You can always visit my Facebook and follow me at Mayor Joy Cooper. < Previous News Next News >

The Hollywood Art & Culture Center - Acquires Cinema Paradiso As Part Of Its Strategic Growth As An Arts Destination South Florida Sun Times May 29, 2025 The Hollywood Art And Culture Center (The Center), Celebrating Its 50th Anniversary, Will Be Assuming Operations Of The 72-Seat Art House Movie Theater Cinema Paradiso Located At 2008 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33020. This New Endeavor Is Part Of The Center’s Strategic Plan To Establish Programs For Emerging And Established Local Filmmakers, And Offer Workshops For Film, Sound Design, Editing, Music Production, Animation And Motion Design. “In the arts, nothing remains the same. Creativity has no bounds and artists are constantly evolving and reimagining everything around them,” said Jennifer Homan, Executive Director of the Hollywood Art and Culture Center. “Adding Cinema Paradiso is a bridge to expand our reach and presence in South Florida as a 50-year-old cultural institution that showcases all visual and performing arts.” Cinema Paradiso will serve as The Center’s dedicated theater for screenings of first run, arthouse and independent films. The addition of the movie theater is aligned with the anticipated opening of the Arts Education Center scheduled for this October. The Center is no stranger to film as the producer of the award-winning Open Dialogues documentary film short series which debuted in 2020. Films such as Queer Allies and Black Voices | Black Stories received regional Emmys in back-to-back years, both winning Telly Awards among other laurels. Gen QueerZ was selected by both the 2025 Fort Lauderdale International and Miami Film Festivals and accepted into the South Florida PBS filmmaker project, paving the way for Visionary Director Freddy Rodriguez and Center Producer Jeff Rusnak to potentially win their third Emmy. “As an organization celebrating our golden anniversary and looking to the future, we will continue to evolve and reimagine all that we do,’’ said Tim Curtin, Chair of the Hollywood Art and Culture Center’s Board of Directors. “It is part of our own cultural renaissance which will be a wonderful gift to the community with the ability to deliver diverse programming, classes and workshops.” Cinema Paradiso was previously managed and operated by The Broward County Film Society which produces the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival, which will continue to operate Savor Cinema in Fort Lauderdale. The organization has generously extended their expertise and continued assistance throughout the transition. “Over the past decade, we have been proud of the programming we have presented at Cinema Paradiso and are thrilled to pass the baton to the Hollywood Art and Culture Center as they celebrate their 50th Anniversary, cultivating art and cultural engagements in downtown Hollywood,” said Lisa Grigorian, President/CEO of the Broward County Film Society. The Broward County Film Society and Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival member benefits will remain intact for the next year. The Center will continue its collaboration with the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival and other film groups while defining and expanding new partnerships. Under the new management, Cinema Paradiso will be one of 1,500 nationwide cinemas to premiere Wes Anderson's The Phoenician Scheme, a dark tale of espionage following a strained father-daughter relationship within a family business. A screening and premiere reception is set for June 6. About Hollywood Art and Culture Center Founded in 1975, the Hollywood Art and Culture Center is a respected NonProfit Organization dedicated to showcasing the arts for all ages. Year-round programming, which includes exhibitions, Broadway and summer camps, live theatre, education, documentary films and more, contributes to its continued success as a leading cultural institution that strives to improve connection, communication and well-being through art and cultural experiences. The organization is supported by its members, guest admissions, public partners and private entities. The Center is located at 1650 Harrison Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020. For more information, please call: (954) 921-3274. Or visit: www.artandculturecenter.org . (Photos courtesy of Hollywood Art and Culture Center.) The Hollywood Art and Culture Center’s Producer Jeff Rusnak (left) and Director Freddy Rodriguez (right) accept Emmys for the film Queer Allies at the Suncoast Regional Emmy Awards in December 2024. This was a 2nd Emmy Award win in as many years. As part of the City of Hollywood's vision to increase arts programming in our city, the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood will expand its current Kagey Home facility with the construction of a new, nearly 5,000-square-foot arts education wing that will be distinct and contemporary. Previous Next

Lost Illusions: The Aventura International Film Series Continues December 12, 2022 Share The Aventura International Film Series continues with Hit the Road (Dec. 13), Lost Illusions. Admired film expert Shelly Isaacs curates the series and will host the film with an introduction and a post-screening discussion. Isaacs is known for his Cafe Cinematheque programs at many venues throughout South Florida. He enjoyed a 30-plus year career as a creative director/writer specializing in creating print ads, commercials and trailers for feature films, TV and radio studios. He teaches foreign-language film appreciation in the Life Long Learning Society at FAU and FIU. In 2009, Isaacs launched Cinematheque at Sea and served as the film expert for Celebrity Cruise Lines at The Cannes International Film Festival. About the Film Lucien de Rubempré (Benjamin Voisin) is an ambitious and unknown aspiring poet in 19th century France. He leaves his provincial town, arriving in Paris on the arm of his admirer, Louise de Bargeton (Cécile de France). Outmatched in elite circles, Lucien’s naive etiquette prompts Louise to retreat back to her husband, leaving the young poet to forge a new path. Lucien makes a new friend in another young writer, Etienne Lousteau (Vincent Lacoste), who introduces him to the business of journalism where a salon of wordsmiths and wunderkinds make or break the reputations of actors and artists with insouciant impunity. Lucien agrees to write rave reviews for bribes, achieving material success at the expense of his conscience and soon discovers that the written word can be an instrument of both beauty and deceit. Xavier Giannoli’s sumptuous adaptation of Honoré de Balzac’s epic novel, Lost Illusions is a ravishing vision of the birth of modern media. New York Times reported, “Lost Illusions, Honoré de Balzac’s novel of Parisian literary life, stands as a stellar example in its period and now, thanks to Xavier Giannoli’s invigorating screen adaptation, in ours as well….Balzac was a prodigious coffee drinker, and the movie, though its characters run on champagne and schadenfreude, is nothing if not caffeinated”. Tickets Screenings are general admission with the lobby doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the auditorium at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - by phone at: 877.311.7469 or 954.462.0222 or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: 954.660.6307. Parking Free parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. We accept major credit cards or mobile payment apps including Apple Pay and Google Pay. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 N.E. 188 Street in Aventura. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. < Previous News Next News >

Say Cheese - Shavuot Holiday 101 By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil May 22, 2025 At A Unique Crossroads Between Religion And Cuisine, The Holiday Of Shavuot, Celebrating The Giving Of The Torah At Mount Sinai Some 3,337 Years Ago, Has Become A Celebration Of Fine Dairy Cuisine As Well. Shavuot Is Celebrated For Two Days, This Year Beginning At Sundown On Sunday, June 1st, 2025 And Ending At Nightfall On Tuesday, June 3rd. 50 days after leaving Egypt on Passover, the Jewish people received the Torah from G-d at Mount Sinai on the holiday of Shavuot. Shavuot literally means “weeks” and marks the completion of the seven-week counting period between Passover and Shavuot. Shavuot customs include all-night Torah study, listening to the recitation of the Ten Commandments, the reading of the Book of Ruth, eating dairy products and adorning the home with flowers. With the giving of the Torah, the Jews became obligated to observe the Kosher Laws. As the Torah was given on Shabbat, no cattle or poultry could be slaughtered, nor could we make sure that the animal's insides were healthy and then properly cleaned out as is required in order for the meat to be Kosher. In addition, utensils could not be Koshered and as such we ate dairy. Exquisite cheesecakes, pesto pastas, lasagna, souffles, eggplant parmesan and of course, cheese blintzes all take center stage during this ancient celebration. When thinking Jewish Holidays, Passover, Chanukah and Yom Kippur usually come to mind first. Nevertheless, Shavuot is considered one of Judaism's main holidays and was in fact a “pilgrimage” when all of Israel would travel to Jerusalem to celebrate in the Temple in Jerusalem. No, it isn't all about the food. Especially in lieu of what's been happening in the world since Simchat Torah on October 7th, 2003, what is important is that the community is joining together, hearing the Ten Commandments and celebrating the Torah. But the good food certainly helps. The tradition to learn all night has been practiced ever since we received the Torah. On the very night before G-d gave the Torah, we went to sleep, waking late in the morning. As a symbolic rectification for this, Jews customarily stay awake studying Torah until the morning, on the first night of Shavuot, this year on Sunday night. Since we all stood at Mount Sinai, we must all reaffirm our commitment. On Monday, June 2nd, the Ten Commandments will be read aloud from the Torah. Special emphasis is placed on including the entire Jewish family, including little babies, the way the Torah’s giving was attended by every Jewish man, woman and child. The word Torah means “instruction” or “guide.” The Torah guides our steps and moves through its 613 Mitzvahs. The word Mitzvah means both “commandment” and “connection.” Through the study of Torah and fulfillment of Mitzvahs, we connect ourselves and our environment to G‑d. G‑d’s purpose in creating the world was that all of creation be sanctified, imbuing it with holiness and spirituality. Since Shavuot is also called the “Harvest Festival,” it is customary to adorn the home with fruits, flowers and greens. Most of us are, thank G-d, able to get out and celebrate the way we have for over three thousand years. But for those that are for whatever reason staying home, that should in no way stop you from celebrating the holiday, since most of the holiday is super easy to celebrate even while at home alone. Not going to work, Eating dairy, Praying the special holiday prayers, Studying Torah all night, Decorating the home with flowers, The only things that we can't do without a quorum, are hearing the Ten Commandments read from the Torah and praying with a minyan. But you can still study the Ten Commandments from a Torah Book, known as a Chumash. And you can still read Yizkor, even without a minyan. To learn more about Shavuot and the many customs associated with it, visit: www.ChabadChayil.org/Shavuot. There you can also get delicious dairy & dairy-like recipes, send free holiday greeting cards, download the prayers & suggested all night Torah study. If you are able to go out, then you should certainly make sure to attend services this holiday, at least to hear the Ten Commandments read from the Torah on Monday morning and of course to thank G-d that you're feeling well. As always, you are welcome to join me at the Family Shul in West Aventura. For the full schedule, call: (305) 770-1919. Or visit: TheFamilyShul.com, where you can RSVP for holiday meals and download many great articles. About the author: Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, your local CTeen & CKids chapters, CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools and direct Chabad Chayil. He’s the Rabbi at The Family Shul and can be reached at: (305) 770-1919. Or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org . You can also support the community with your partnership at: www.ChabadChayil.org/Donate . Previous Next

Celebrating Earth Day: Beach Changes, The Turtle Season And Updates On The Removal Of The Historic Banyan Tree Thu Apr 25 2024 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)