Water Breaks, Sewer Back-Ups: Sea Level Rising, Saltwater Erosion & Disposable Wipes Add Up To A Problem Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper September 30, 2021 Share When the sea level or flash flooding puts pressure on the pipes water seeps in. When the pipe is full the water overflows or seeps out. When you add the fact, people throw towels and other items down the drain, our pipes and more importantly lift stations get clogged and even become broken from the strain. Over the past year our City has continued to see numerous water breaks and sewer back-ups. While they both have to do with water these two types of situations come with different impacts. The root cause is the age of our pipes but there are other factors. Sea level rising, saltwater erosion and in the case of our sewer lines disposable wipes. Our sewer system is made up of different types and ages of pipes. The pipes are connected to lift stations that are strategically placed around the city to meet the demands in each area. Basically, waste comes from your home or apartment through gravity mains which fill and then travel to a station. These stations fill and then are pumped out with pressure. The process continues to two main pumps that connect to Hollywood and then to their treatment plant. Our City has contracted with Hollywood for years as part of a large user’s agreement. Pembroke Park, Pembroke Pines, Miramar and Dania joined and created the system. Over the years Pembroke Pines and Miramar built plants out west. An agreement was negotiated where they would need to pay for an agreed cost to get out of the agreement. In return it freed up capacity for the cities in the east. The old pipes in our City as well as access points like manhole covers and cracked pipes create what is called I&I Inflow and Infiltration. When the sea level puts pressure on the pipes water seeps in. When the pipe is full the water overflows or seeps out. When you add the fact, people throw towels and other items down the drain, our pipes and more importantly lift stations get clogged and even become broken from the strain. Our residents need to know if they use these wipes and are truly not flushable, they are clogging our drains. With King Tides I&I is compounded. The system gets strained. Even in Hollywood you can see pumps next to the pump stations. Their system like ours can get overwhelmed. Last meeting, we discussed working with them to see what they are planning to address. When the pumps break, we need to put in bypass pumps until we can repair the damage. Sadly, in two cases in the Southwest Section, a person turned off the pump due to the noise. This occurred twice and since then we have secured and posted. It is illegal to damage or to tamper with this equipment, if you are caught, you can be arrested and fined. This act can create environmental damage. It can also create backups and flooding. In the case of our water pipes. Sea level rising also impacts the pipes. Our water pipes, like sewer pipes, run through-out the City and interconnect to pumps. The difference is that the water is continually under pressure. On the beach, we have the water tower and in condominiums there are also booster pumps. This potable water must be kept under pressure. As pipes age and get eroded, the pipes can burst. In addition to erosion, the valve system where we can turn sections on and off, are also impacted. There is another issue that comes up with these breaks. Going in and fixing them stops the breaks but may disturb connections along the line. Once these pipes burst, there is a threat of possible contamination. Typically, “Boiled Water Alerts” do not last that long but can depending on the severity of the break. The longest alert I can recall over the past 30 years was from a hurricane. There was contamination of the well field out west that impacted everyone’s water supply. During the alerts, the staff were testing the water until they knew that it was clear. It is not all bad news. We are very fortunate to have a great team in our Department of Public Works under the leadership of Director Jeff Odoms. They are on call 24-7-365. They have been working on doing all of the repairs and he is getting service updates ASAP. The other great news is we have approved a plan to replace and or repair all of our lift stations. For those residents that wish to celebrate the life of Vice Mayor William Julian, there will be a mass held starting at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Matthews Church, located at 542 Blue Heron Drive, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. After the service, there will be a memorial brick dedication at our Veteran’s Memorial, located at City Hall 400 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. Refreshments will follow at the American Legion Post 310, located at 225 Southeast 1st Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. 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 >

‘Sea Foodies’: Are Flocking To The 2023 South Beach Seafood Festival By Merilee Kern, MBA September 21, 2023 Share Miami’s South Beach is synonymous with sun, surf and a vibrant culinary scene, and there’s no better way to experience the flavors of the ocean than at the Annual South Beach Seafood Festival. This year’s gastronomic celebration will again galvanize seafood enthusiasts, top chefs, and music lovers for a day of indulgence, entertainment and coastal camaraderie. Presented by Tequila Herradura and GOYA Foods, and hosted with the support of the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority, the four-day festival from Wednesday, October 18th, 2023 through Saturday, October 21st, 2023 will be a curated culinary showcase coupling South Florida’s bounty of seafood with the region’s most notable chefs and local restaurants. With four days of special programming, including endless food and beverage tastings, chef competitions, cooking demonstrations and more, this year’s festival will raise the bar for one of the country’s leading seafood events. The delight is indubitably in the details. So, as the 2023 edition of this epicurean extravaganza approaches, feast your eyes on these ten tasty reasons to savor the sea at this year’s SOBE event. 1. Culinary & Cultural Excellence — The South Beach Seafood Festival, with tickets now available online, is a culinary delight like no other. It brings together some of Miami’s most talented chefs, who showcase their skills by creating exquisite seafood dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. The event is a culinary journey that captures the essence of Miami’s vibrant culture, beautiful beaches and reverence for seafood. With culinary ingenuity, live entertainment and a commitment to sustainability on full display, this annual event is a gastronomic extravaganza that celebrates the bounty of the ocean in the heart of one of America’s most glamorous beachfront locales. 2. The festival begins on Wednesday, October 18th, 2023 with “An Evening at Joe’s Stone Crab.” The five-course meal, hosted by Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, showcases Executive Chef Andre Bienvenu’s cuisine paired with fine wines curated by master sommeliers. A ticket to “An Evening at Joe’s” reserves a seat in ‘Jesse’s Room’, the original setting in which greats like Al Capone and Frank Sinatra cracked claws. Guests will travel back in time with Joe’s Stone Crab, basking in the iconic history of the country’s top-grossing restaurant, while learning to crack the perfect claw and enjoying the world’s freshest Stone Crab catch. 3. Surf n’ Turf Interpretations – The evening of Thursday, October 19th, 2023 “Crabs, Slabs & Cabs,” takes place to tantalize taste buds. Taking place at High Tide Beach at Miami’s iconic Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel, “Crabs, Slabs, & Cabs” is a formal sit-down, five-course dinner and a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience in a tropical oasis set for the ultimate seafood extraordinaire, presented by Breakthru Beverage Florida. Some of Miami’s finest chefs will join forces with GOYA’s Executive Chef, Fernando Desa, to create their own unique international take on the traditional “surf n’ turf” dish, hosted in partnership with Halperns’ Steak and Seafood. The chefs participating in this year’s dinner include celebrated restaurateur and Pubbelly Sushi Partner José Mendín; La Mar Executive Chef Diego Oka; Meat Market Executive Chef and Owner Sean Brasel; Luca Osteria & Eating House’s Chef and Owner Giorgio Rapicavoli; and Leku Executive Chef Carlos Garcia. Limited to 150 guests, attendees will explore flavors from around the world as each chef presents a different course showcasing their own delicious interpretation of the delicious surf n’ turf pairing. 4. VIP Chef Showdown — On Friday evening, the gloves will come off as Miami’s top chefs go head-to-head in 11 competitive seafood rounds during the annually sold-out “Chef Showdown,” coined the ultimate beach bash on South Beach. Competing at the event will be last year’s winning chefs who will return to defend their culinary crown at the festival. Join Miami’s top chefs for an evening of competitive culinary cook-offs where attendees will serve as the judges as they indulge in endless seafood dishes and refreshing cocktails. The “Chef Showdown,” brought to you by Herradura Tequila and presented by GOYA in the Culinary Pavilion of the Cadillac VIP Village, will guide guests through the absolute best of Miami’s culinary scene where 23 chefs—including last year’s champions—will battle it out in the most battles ever to hit the showdown stage, with 11 unique seafood showdowns in one night. Chefs will host ‘battle pavilions’ where guests will sample and vote for their favorites. Throughout the night, chefs from each battle will take the Demesmin & Dover Live main stage to put on a show in their action packed live demos as representatives from the culinary industry will serve as the final judges to award the best in each showdown. This year’s Chef Ref MC, Kelly Blanco, is back to host the LIVE stage with a line up of judges including: GOYA Foods’ Executive Chef Fernando Desa; Joe’s Stone Crab’s Executive Chef Andre Bienvenu; RED South Beach’s Executive Chef Peter Vauthy; Chef Adrianne Calvo; Food Writer Sara Liss; Café Bernie’s Chef Bernie Matz; and NBC6/Telemundo’s Kiko Suarez. Previous years have seen chefs featured with Mariachi bands, LED Robots, Acrobats, Miami HEAT dancers, and more as they wow the crowd while preparing their dishes on stage. Each battle will have one lucky champ. 5. The excitement building up during the series of nightly events will reach a stirring culmination at the week’s main celebration, the “South Beach Seafood Festival.” The all-day affair takes place on Saturday, October 21st, 2023 and showcases a selection of pop-up-cafés and VIP samplings by prominent South Florida restaurants in partnership with signature national brands who will descend on South Beach for one weekend only. The main event will feature a selection of curated pop-up cafés created by some of Miami’s favorite seafood restaurants. In addition to an assortment of restaurant pop-ups and complimentary all-day open bars for all ticketed guests at the general admission and VIP admission level, the beachfront festival will also include 5 blocks of live music stages, interactive sponsor experiences, beach games, Milam’s Marketplace with the always popular Culinary Showcase Kitchen, featuring local chefs and mixologists to include chefs from Branja, Pez Loco, Mixologists from Pacifico, Wine education featuring Vine and Branches, and more. Pop-up café attendees will enjoy shareable portions of Stone Crabs, Lobster Waffle Cones, Steak and Lobster Skewers, Ceviche, Oysters, Shrimp Tacos, and Shrimp Cocktails among other enticing seafood favorites. VIP ticket holders will gain access to a one-and-a-half block private village with exclusive premium experiences, private samplings, and more set for the ultimate VIP guest. Restaurants participating in Saturday’s pop-up cafe experience — featuring over 70 menu items to choose from — include: Aida Mexican Seafood, A Fish Called Avalon, Café Avanti, Café Bernie, Cilantro 27, CJ’s Crabs Shack, Ella’s Oyster Bar, Latin House, Lobster Shack, Pubbelly Sushi, RED Steakhouse South Beach, Sala O’ Cuban, Sim Sushi & Tapas, Social Club, Tacos and Tattoos, and The Wagyu Bar by Meat N’ Bone. 6. Sip While You Savor — Cocktail lovers will also have their fair share of fun as four talented bartenders battle it out as part of Friday night’s festivities during the “Tequila Herradura Extraordinary Bartender Showdown” happening within the Tequila Herradura experience. The finalists will be selected and announced in early October. Attendees of Saturday’s Fest can also sip on refreshing beverages at various bars stationed throughout the festival grounds as the event tickets include open bar for 21+. 7. Exclusive Premium Experiences — This year’s VIP Village hosts 1 1/2 blocks of foodie fabulosity featuring the always popular GOYA Culinary Pavilion, the Tequila Herradura Pop Up featuring Bodega Taqueria y Tequila and Jack Daniel's featuring Le Chick, the all new Mountain Valley Spring Water hydration lounge, and the list continues along with sampling restaurants, to include: American Social, Area 31, Estiatorio Milos, Billy G Catering, Bodega Taqueria y Tequila, Mau Miami, Osaka Nikkei, Playa, Rum Room, Smashburger, Tartufo Prestige, The Lazy Oyster, Old Lisbon and The Wagyu Bar by Meat N’ Bone, among others. 8. Live Music and Entertainment — The South Beach Seafood Festival is not just about food; it’s also a celebration of Miami’s vibrant culture. Groove to the beats of live music amid three stages and enjoy lively entertainment throughout the day. At the Saturday fest, the Demesmin and Dover Live Music Stage presented by Jack Daniel's will feature Live Bands and local DJ’s. 9. Community Spirit — In addition to celebrating regional culinary talent, the festival annually supports CI Foundation’s: http://www.ci-mgt.com/ - a 501 ©(3) nonprofit program that provides healthy meals and nutritional guidance to the local community and Florida’s youth through programs in Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Even beyond its charitable initiatives, the South Beach Seafood Festival fosters a sense of community. The event offers a chance to come together with fellow seafood enthusiasts, locals, and visitors to celebrate a shared love for ocean-inspired cuisine. 10. A Unique Experience — Touted in previous years by USA TODAY as one of the “Top 5 Specialty Festivals in The Country;” by Forbes as the “Top 5 Things to Do This Fall;” and by the Travel Channel as the “Best Seafood Festival in the US,” the South Beach Seafood Festival is the place to be for ultimate ‘sea foodies’ from near and far. Above all, the South Beach Seafood Festival offers a matchless opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors and culture of Miami while enjoying the freshest seafood imaginable. Set against the backdrop of the pristine Miami Beach shoreline, the festival offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed ocean-side atmosphere that’s perfect for a day of seafood indulgence. “Mark your calendars for the 2023 South Beach Seafood Festival, which has become an integral part of Miami’s cultural scene, drawing locals and visitors from around the country to celebrate the city’s unique culinary landscape and laid-back beach culture,” said Valerie Roy, Director of Marketing and Client Strategy at CI Management, the team behind the South Beach Seafood Festival. “Whether you’re a seafood connoisseur, a lover of entertainment, or simply seeking a deliciously memorable week of flavor in the beautiful setting of South Beach, this festival promises an experience that will tantalize the senses and leave guests with unforgettable memories!” Whether you’re a seafood connoisseur or simply looking for a fun day out in Miami, this seafood-laden fest promises an unforgettable epicurean adventure. So, arrive hungry, thirsty, and ready to savor the sea. Information about the South Beach Seafood Festival can be found at: https://sobeseafoodfest.com/ < Previous News Next News >

The Health Insurance Panic Is Real: Nobody Has A Sound Solution To Lower Premiums - And That Is A Major Issue Mon Mar 20 2023 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Oasis Hallandale Beach Residential Towers Breaks Ground: New Luxury Development Marks The First Mixed-Use Project Of Its Kind In Hallandale Beach Wed May 31 2023 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Disney On Ice Rolls Out The Red Carpet With Spotlight Magic! South Florida Sun Times May 21, 2026 A Dazzling New Disney On Ice Production Is Skating Into Sunrise, And It’s Unlike Anything Audiences Have Seen Before. Disney On Ice Presents Spotlight Magic! Invites Fans To Step Into The Spotlight And Join A Glamorous Red-Carpet Celebration Packed With Never-Before-Seen Performances, Chart-Topping Music, And More Than 30 Beloved Disney Characters – Coming To Amerant Bank Arena From Thursday, September 10th, 2026 - Sunday, September 13th, 2026. Disney On Ice Preferred Customers can purchase advance tickets starting today to get the best seats available, tickets went on sale to the public on Tuesday May 12th, 2026. Fans can still sign up to become a Disney On Ice Preferred Customer and get exclusive access to the pre-sale offer code. Hosted by Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy, Spotlight Magic! celebrates the magic each of us brings to the party. As the spotlight travels through vibrant Disney worlds, heroes, sidekicks, and even villains, take center stage for unforgettable moments of music, storytelling, and world-class skating. Audiences will have the chance to see fan‑favorite characters make their Disney On Ice debuts. From Zootopia 2, pop sensation Gazelle and sly newcomer Gary De’Snake, join Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde for an all‑new adventure. From Lilo & Stitch, Angel makes her highly anticipated North American debut, soaring high above the arena on a sparkling chandelier before reuniting with Stitch in a heartwarming on‑ice moment. Fans will also experience beloved stories from Beauty and the Beast, Tangled, Toy Story, Moana, and Monsters, Inc., alongside a thrilling, never-before-seen showcase featuring Disney’s iconic villains, including the Evil Queen, Gaston, Maleficent, and Ursula. The celebration is powered by an electrifying soundtrack that blends Disney Channel hits like “Pumpin’ Up the Party” (“Hannah Montana”), “A Night to Remember” (High School Musical 3: Senior Year), and “Good to Be Bad” (Descendants 3), with timeless classics such as “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” (Toy Story), “Be Our Guest” (Beauty and the Beast), “I’ve Got a Dream” (Tangled), and “I Am Moana” (Moana). Beyond the music and storytelling, Spotlight Magic! delivers breathtaking production elements, including jaw-dropping aerial acrobatics, a kinetic chandelier made of 64 glowing light bars, cutting-edge LED technology, and dazzling choreography performed by world-class figure skaters. From shimmering lanterns illuminating the arena to performers riding a moving camera boom that sweeps spotlights across the ice, every moment is designed to immerse audiences in Hollywood-inspired magic. The excitement begins before the show and continues at intermission, as guests are invited to strut the red carpet and showcase their star power. Fans are encouraged to dress to impress and take part in the high-energy atmosphere that sets the stage for an unforgettable night. This all-new production joins a unique lineup of seven Disney On Ice shows currently touring worldwide, including Jump In!, Find Your Hero, Magic of Family, Mickey’s Search Party, Road Trip Adventures, Magic in the Stars, and Let’s Dance!, each bringing Disney magic to guests in their hometowns across the globe. Produced by Feld Entertainment, Disney On Ice has entertained millions of families in more than 80 countries on six continents. When: Thursday, September 10th, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. Friday, September 11th, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. Saturday, September 12th, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. Sunday, September 13th, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m. Where: Amerant Bank Arena – One Panther Parkway, Sunrise, Florida 33323 Tickets: Purchase online at: www.SeatGeek.com or in-person at the venue box office. It’s easier than ever to experience Disney magic with family-friendly pricing that lets you choose the perfect enchanted adventure. *Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand. Magical Pass Add a little extra magic to your Disney On Ice experience with the all-new Magical Pass, including premium seats with some of the best views in the house! Arrive early to enjoy a visit with a special Disney star before the start of the show and commemorate your very special experience with a collectible lanyard. Note: Character greeting included with Magical Pass starts 45 minutes before the show and will conclude promptly 15 minutes before show time. Adults & children, ages 2 and up, MUST each have a Magical Pass Package show ticket to attend. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For specific Sunrise local show information, please visit: https://www.disneyonice.com/spotlight-magic/sunrise-fl-amerant-bank-arena Follow Disney On Ice Social Media channels: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok About Feld Entertainment® Feld Entertainment®, family owned and operated, is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, Monster Jam®, Disney On Ice, Monster Energy AMA Supercross, and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 80 countries and on six continents. Visit: www.feldentertainment.com for more information. Beauty & The Beast Mickey & Minnie Moana Monsters Inc Stitch & Ange Tangled Toy Story Zootopia Previous Next

Turning Every Ticket into Opportunities - Florida Lottery Surpasses $50 Billion To Support Education In Florida Aventura Digest Apr 23, 2026 Today, The Florida Lottery Highlights A Significant Milestone In Educational Funding With The Announcement Of More Than $50 Billion Generated For The Florida Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF) As Of January. This Funding Supports Public Schools, Higher Education, And Scholarship Opportunities Like The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program, Which Supports Both College Education And Technical Training, Ensuring Students Have Access To A Brighter Future. “Reaching this $50 Billion milestone is a testament to the dedication of our players,” said Florida Lottery Acting Secretary Reginald D. Dixon. “This success would not have been possible without the steadfast leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis over the past seven years, whose commitment to Florida’s students and families continues to inspire our mission. Every ticket purchased helps fund classrooms, scholarships, and programs that empower students to reach their full potential.” This landmark achievement underscores the Lottery’s enduring commitment to Florida students and educators, funding K-12 programs, classroom initiatives, scholarships, and workforce training opportunities every year across the state since its inception in 1988. From the very beginning, the Florida Lottery has been committed to generating revenue for education while maintaining the integrity of its games. From elementary classrooms to university scholarship programs, Lottery funds continue to empower students and support Florida’s Educational Infrastructure. About The Florida Lottery The Florida Lottery is responsible for generating more than $50 Billion to enhance education and sending more than one million students to Florida’s colleges, universities, and technical schools through the Bright Futures Program Scholarship. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue into Florida's economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,600 Lottery retailers, and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid over $104.8 Billion in prizes and created more than 4,475 millionaires. For more information, please visit: www.floridalottery.com and be sure to follow the Florida Lottery on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X to stay informed. This landmark achievement underscores the Lottery’s enduring commitment to Florida students and educators. Previous Next

From Poolside To Purpose - YMCA Of South Florida’s Beach Ball Gala Celebrates A Decade Of Saving Lives Through Water Safety South Florida Sun Times Sep 24, 2026 For 10 Years, The YMCA Of South Florida’s Beach Ball Gala Has Brought Together Community Leaders, Philanthropists And Advocates For An Evening With A Purpose That Reaches Far Beyond The Dance Floor: Keeping South Florida Children Safe In And Around The Water. The 10th Annual Beach Ball Gala will take place Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood. The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. with a reception and silent auction, followed by dinner, dancing and a closer look at the YMCA’s ongoing efforts to prevent drowning and expand access to lifesaving water-safety education. More than 600 guests are expected to attend the milestone celebration. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino returns as Title Sponsor, with Nicklaus Children’s Health System serving as Presenting Sponsor. But the heart of the evening is not simply the celebration—it is what the event makes possible for children and families across South Florida. A Mission Measured in Lives All proceeds from the Beach Ball Gala support financial assistance for the YMCA of South Florida’s aquatics programs, including free and subsidized swim lessons for underserved youth, wet and dry water-safety instruction, Swim for Jenny and resources designed to help families prevent child drownings. For YMCA of South Florida CEO Sheryl A. Woods, this year’s event represents two significant milestones: a decade of fundraising through the Beach Ball and a major development in the region’s fight against drowning. “This year’s Beach Ball Gala is very special to us, as we celebrate two major milestones,” Woods said. “In addition to commemorating 10 years of gathering community leaders to raise funds in support of the Y’s aquatics programs, we are also happy to announce that Broward and Miami-Dade Counties no longer lead the nation in drowning deaths, which is a very important step in our mission.” The progress, she emphasized, is a community achievement. “It is because of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Nicklaus Children’s Health System, and all our sponsors and supporters that we are saving lives,” Woods said. “Let’s keep it up.” Building Water-Safe Kids In a region surrounded by pools, canals, beaches and waterways, water safety is not simply an extracurricular skill. For many South Florida families, it is a fundamental part of keeping children safe. The YMCA’s approach combines swimming instruction with practical drowning-prevention education. Its eight-lesson drowning prevention course costs just $125 per child and is designed to give children the skills and confidence they need to swim and respond safely in the water. For families who might otherwise face financial barriers to swim instruction, assistance supported by the Beach Ball can make those lessons accessible. That access is particularly important because drowning prevention begins well before an emergency. Teaching children how to swim, helping families understand water hazards and reinforcing safe behaviors can give children tools that remain with them for years. The YMCA’s aquatics initiatives reflect that broader philosophy. From Swim for Jenny to wet and dry safety lessons, the programs are designed not only to teach children to swim but also to create a culture of prevention throughout the community. Ten Years, One Purpose Over the past decade, the Beach Ball has evolved into one of the YMCA of South Florida’s signature fundraising events, using an elegant evening of food, entertainment and philanthropy to address an urgent community need. The 2026 gala offers guests an opportunity to celebrate the progress already made while helping sustain the work ahead. Early-bird tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Sponsorship levels range from Silver at $3,500 to Emerald at $50,000, with additional opportunities at Gold, Ruby, Platinum, Platinum Plus and Diamond levels. For an organization whose work touches South Florida residents from infancy through adulthood, aquatics is just one part of a much larger mission. The YMCA of South Florida has served the community for more than a century and today offers more than 200 programs, from fitness and health and wellness initiatives to camps, afterschool care, community events and aquatics. Yet water safety carries a particular urgency in a community where the water is woven into everyday life. The Beach Ball Gala turns that urgency into action—helping ensure that a child’s first experience in the pool can be the beginning of confidence and joy, rather than a preventable tragedy. Ten years after the first Beach Ball, the message remains clear: learning to swim can be life-changing. And, in South Florida, it can be lifesaving. For more information on Beach Ball 2026, including sponsorships and tickets, please visit: https://ymcasouthflorida.org/beach-ball/ . For sponsorship opportunities or additional questions, please contact Aimee Fretwell at: AFretwell@YMCASouthFlorida.org . Or at: (954) 334-9622, Extension#: 1045. About the YMCA of South Florida For more than a century, the YMCA has been woven into the fabric of the South Florida community. As a leading NonProfit, the Y is committed to strengthening community through more than 200 programs serving everyone from six months old to 100 years young. Our Family Centers and programs are inclusive, vibrant hubs of community life, offering a diverse array of classes, cutting-edge fitness facilities, life-saving aquatics, exciting community events, unforgettable camps, supportive afterschool care, and holistic health and wellness programming. At the Y, there’s something for everyone. Join the movement by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Or: https://YMCASouthFlorida.org . Previous Next

Hollywood Residents Invited To Help Shape The City's Future Tree Canopy City of Hollywood Jun 4, 2026 Hollywood Residents Will Have The Opportunity To Learn About The Benefits Of Urban Trees, Connect With Neighbors, And Help Guide Future Tree Planting Efforts During A Series Of Free Community Workshops Taking Place Throughout June. Hosted by Eco Ed Impact Corp in partnership with the City of Hollywood’s Sustainability team, the workshops are part of an ongoing effort to expand the City's tree canopy and promote healthier, more sustainable neighborhoods. The family-friendly events will offer hands-on learning experiences focused on tree care, urban forestry, and the many ways trees improve quality of life. Participants will discover how trees help cool neighborhoods, improve air quality, reduce Stormwater runoff and create more inviting public spaces. Residents attending the workshops will also have the opportunity to help shape future planting efforts by providing input on where new trees should be planted throughout the community. Participants may also vote for trees in front of their own homes. Each workshop will feature educational activities, children's activities, music, complimentary refreshments, and free plants available while supplies last. Workshop Schedule Saturday, June 6th, 2026 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Kay Gaither Community Center 6291 Funston Street, Hollywood, Florida 33023 Friday, June 12th, 2026 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Boulevard Heights Community Center 6770 Garfield Street, Hollywood, Florida 33024 Saturday, June 13th, 2026 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Driftwood Community Center 3000 North 69th Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33024 Saturday, June 27th, 2026 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Washington Park Community Center 5199 Pembroke Road, Hollywood, Florida 33023 All workshops are free and open to the public. Residents can learn more about the project and vote for trees to help shape the future tree canopy in their neighborhoods by visiting: www.treecanopyproject.com . Bridal Veil Gumbo Limbo Yellow Poinciana Previous Next

A Look Back Hallandale Beach: On The Past Year Of 2023 We Hit Some Great Milestones By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper December 28, 2023 Share I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. As we look back over the past year in Hallandale Beach we have all gone through some challenges and also have plenty we have accomplished. Last year we hit some great milestones. This would not have been possible without a unified Commission, strong City Management and the hard work of all our Staff. This year marks the first full year Chief Michel has served as our Chief. He was originally appointed as our Chief back in June 2022. He continues to lead our department into the future along with his command staff. Over the earlier part of the year, we had witnessed an increase in Gang Violence that has been taking place between Hallandale Beach, Dania Beach, Hollywood and West Park. The incidents that have taken place are all active investigations. Crime Rate Statistics are lagging. So, if you go online you are going to find figures that are before 2023. Our overall Crime Rate has dropped in Hallandale over the past year under his leadership. When he started there were many vacant positions. At one point we were down 20. This year the Chief has been working to fill all positions. Just like other agencies, officers retire, so he has many in the pipeline in the academy. They continue to roll out technologies including expanded License Plate Readers, Spot Shotter and this past year’s Drone Program. They are also working on expanding CCTV throughout the city. While the overall rate is lowered there is an increase in Property Crimes and Thefts. Our City Budget for the first time in a year is stable. I have shared that in 2019 our Budget was dismal. The previous leadership used one-time Revenues and Reserves to balance the budget. The 2023-2024 Budget was balanced without the use of Reserves. To date our budget of $200 Million includes over $80 Million in Capital Projects and many new Management Projects that will move our City forward. They include replacing all of our Water Meters, upgrading our technology to enhance security and streamline Service Delivery to name a few. This year was the first year we debated reducing the Tax Rate in 5 years. This year, we have seen Revitalized Investments by many Developers. Hallandale Beach hit the $1,200 Dollar Per Square Foot in the Residential Real Estate Market. 2000 Ocean opened and in less than 6 months the price went from $2.6 Million to $3.5 Plus Million. Slate, a Luxury Rental Building opened. The Diplomat Golf Course Reopened with a Membership Fee of $1 Million Dollars. They have also opened up sales for their Residential/Hotel. Other Projects that are Under Construction or opened around the City include Workforce and Affordable Housing. The most recent building to open is Solaris right next to Bluesten Park. It has a mix of Units from One to Three Bedrooms. Their Three-bedroom Unit is $1,785 Per Month. I had a chance to visit and take a tour. The Units, Amenities and Buildings are truly remarkable! Affordable Housing is no longer the project of the past. Next year we are proud to say many more units will be on their way and provide much needed housing relief. The Office Market continues to thrive. Atlantic III Opened and Atlantic IV is getting ready to be opened to Tenants. Optima Tower opened on Federal Highway and boasts Luxury Office Spaces with a Pool and Work-Out Facilities for their Tenants. Oasis has also Opened its first Office Building and has just received its Temporary Certificate on the Second Office Building facing Hallandale Beach Boulevard. This means that their tenants will begin their build out. 2023 also brought with it many challenges. The 1,000-Year Rain Event created havoc and Floods. This year I fought, and we placed another Major Drainage Pumping Project on the books for the Northeast Area. We continued to have strange weather with Storms that had Strong Winds and Heavy Rain. Thankfully, we had no Major Hurricanes! With the Ukraine War still raging we as a society were faced with the horrific events in Israel. Our City was put on Alert and remains vigilant in protecting our many Jewish Temples and Schools. As the war continues, we as a commission have stood firm against Antisemitism. We are the first City in the U.S. to adopt Strong Criminal Penalties for Acts Of Antisemitism for Removing Flags, Posters Of Kidnapped Hostages and Acts Of Hate. Our Gulfstream Academy K-8 School was rocked by the loss of Principal Campbell in November. Our schools have been struggling since the COVID-19 Pandemic. He brought back to the school a great vision and had already reduced Discipline Issues by 28%. Both Gulfstream K-8 and High School have a C Grade. WE all need to work together to improve these grades! In January they will be selecting a new principal and will be asking the community to weigh in. There will be a meeting for all partners on Thursday, January 11th, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. This will be to have a conversation about the future Principal. As we look to 2024 I will also be looking towards next year. We have much to be thankful for. We all know that many in our City are still struggling. We will continue to support programs at the Hepburn Center and our CRA to provide a hand up and assistance to those in need. As always please feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place! I am available at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or: joycooper@aol.com . On my Office Number at: (954) 457-1318. Or on my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. You can always visit my Facebook and follow me at: Mayor Joy Cooper! < Previous News Next News >

U.S. Medicare Info Helping Seniors With Medicare Programs Throughout Florida Sun Apr 24 2022 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

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Aventura Branch Library Happenings - LEGO At The Library, Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group, Falun Gong Meditation And Exercise & Much More Aventura Digest Sep 17, 2026 The Aventura Branch Library Has A Wide Variety Of On-line And In-Person Events. There Will Be LEGO At The Library, Sing-along Mondays, Falun Gong Meditation And Exercise And Much More. Some Events May Require You To RSVP, So, Please Go On-Line To Register At: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura - Or For More Information Prior To Attending The Event, Call: (305) 931-5512. LEGO At The Library: Thursday, September 24th, 2026 - 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Bring your creativity and have fun building with LEGO blocks! Adult supervision recommended for younger children. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 12 years old. Homework Help And Tutoring: Saturday, September 26th, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Certified teachers meet with small groups of students in one-hour sessions to provide Homework Help and Tutoring in Reading, Math, and Science. Students are encouraged to bring homework material or school assignments for assistance in specific subject areas. This free service is available to all students in grades K-12. For more information, contact: tutoring@mdpls.org. Call: (305) 375-1413. Or visit: www.mdpls.org/tutor . Funded in part by The Children's Trust. Applause For Words - A Workshop For Writers: Saturday, September 26th, 2026 - 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Conference Room Join us for this bi-monthly workshop designed for anyone interested in writing fiction or non-fiction with the hope of one day publishing their work! Facilitated by Author Elaine B. Johnson, each session will provide a safe and fun environment for participants to learn about the process of becoming a successful writer. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Introduction To Computers: Saturday, September 26th, 2026 & Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 - 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Learn the basics of computers, including how to use a mouse and keyboard, write in a Word document, browse the internet, use email and more! Taught by instructors from Collective Sistahood. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Talking Is Teaching - Talk, Read, Sing For Toddlers And Preschoolers - With Commissioner Micky Steinberg, District 4: Monday, September 28th, 2026 - 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Join us for stories, songs and activities for toddlers, preschoolers and their caregivers. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 18 months - 5 years old. Chess Club: Monday, September 28th, 2026 & Monday, October 5th, 2026 - 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sharpen your Chess skills by playing with others! Fun for beginners and more advanced players alike. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 8 years old and up. Falun Gong Meditation and Exercise Wednesday, September 30th, 2026 & Wednesday, October 7th, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Join us online or in person to learn Falun Gong, an ancient, high-level Chinese practice that uses gentle movements and meditation to cultivate the body, mind and spirit. Registration is required for online participants. Zoom Link will be emailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Color Me Happy: Thursday, October 1st, 2026 - 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Join us for fun and simple coloring activities. Materials will be provided. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 years old and up. Homework Help And Tutoring: Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Certified teachers meet with small groups of students in one-hour sessions to provide Homework Help and Tutoring in Reading, Math, and Science. Students are encouraged to bring Homework Material or School Assignments for assistance in specific subject areas. This free service is available to all students in grades K-12. For more information, contact: tutoring@mdpls.org . Call: (305) 375-1413. Or visit: www.mdpls.org/tutor . Funded in part by The Children's Trust. Literary Discussions - Where Words Meet Thought: Tuesday, October 6th, 2026 - 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Join Dr. Lillian Schanfield, Professor Emerita of English at Barry University, in a discussion group for readers who love words, ideas and the art of expression. Each session focuses on a short literary work or passage (fiction, poetry, or drama), or a topic related to language. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Blood Pressure Screenings: Thursday, October 8th, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Free Blood Pressure Screening offered by the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group - Presented By The Alzheimer's Association: Thursday, October 8th, 2026 - 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Build a support system with others who understand your journey as a caregiver to a loved one with Dementia. Join this Alzheimer's support group to exchange information on challenges, possible solutions, coping strategies and available community resources. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Switch Party - Video Games For Kids & Teens: Thursday, October 8th, 2026 - 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Relax and have fun playing video games. Play solo or with a friend. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 18 years old. Some of the above events are On-line. To register, go to: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura For more information, feel free to contact the Aventura Branch At: (305) 931-5512. The Aventura Branch Library is located at 2930 Aventura Boulevard, Aventura, Florida 33180. Previous Next