OB Johnson Park Open Gym: Register Your Kids For A FREE Annual Membership At OB Johnson Park July 26, 2023 Share Summer is here, and with school out, it's the perfect time for kids to get outside the house, and engage in some physical activity. If you're looking for a fun and healthy way to keep your kids active during the summer months, look no further than the OB Johnson Park Open Gym. With a FREE Annual Membership, certain Restrictions Apply, your kids will have access to Basketball and Volleyball Courts, ensuring they have a blast while staying fit. Located at OB Johnson Park, the Butch Nelson Gymnasium is a hub of energy and excitement. The Open Gym Program is designed to provide a Safe and enjoyable Environment for kids to play Basketball or Volleyball. While the Program is Non-Instructional, the Staff is always present, ensuring the atmosphere remains Secure, friendly, and conducive to fun. If you have children aged 12 years and under, it's important to note that they must be accompanied by a Parent or Guardian over the age of 18 at all times. This ensures their Safety and gives you the opportunity to join in on the fun too! For kids aged 13 to 17, they can be Signed-In and Signed-Out by a Parent or Guardian, or they can have a Current Sign-In/Out Waiver on file. To participate in the Open Gym Program, all participants are Required to complete a Current Liability Waiver. Safety is a top priority, and this Waiver ensures that everyone understands the Potential Risks and Agrees to abide by the Rules and Regulations of the Facility. While the Annual Passes for the Open Gym Program are usually priced at $15 for Residents and $120 for Non-Residents, thanks to the generous Sponsorship from the Fenstersheib Law Group, P.A., City of Hallandale Beach Youth aged 17 and under can enjoy a FREE Annual Gym Membership for this Program. It's a fantastic opportunity for kids to stay Active without putting a strain on your wallet. The OB Johnson Gym is not just a place for kids; it's a Community Hub. It's a place where Neighbors, Co-Workers, Business Associates, and Friends can come together to enjoy Physical Activity, camaraderie, and friendly competition. It's a chance to connect with others, build relationships, and create lasting memories. To Register for the Open Gym Program, In-Person Registration is Required. You can visit OB Johnson Park directly or give them a call at: (954) 457-1600. If you prefer to gather more information before Registering, you can also visit their website at: www.cohb.org/OpenGym There, you'll find detailed information about the Program, Rules and Regulations, and any Necessary Documents. So, why not take advantage of this amazing opportunity to keep your kids Active and engaged this summer? The OB Johnson Park Open Gym offers the perfect setting for your children to enjoy Basketball and Volleyball while having a great time with their peers. With a Safe and Secure Environment, a generous Sponsorship providing FREE Annual Memberships, and a strong sense of Community, this is an opportunity you don't want to miss. Register your kids today and watch them thrive in the OB Johnson Gym. < Previous News Next News >

A Season of Visionary Leadership at The Sterling Aventura - Introducing Kristin Landahl, Executive Director and Community Servant Thu Dec 19 2024 18:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Help Reduce Flooding – Adopt A Catch Basin In Hollywood South Florida Sun Times Jun 5, 2025 Rainy Season Is Here, And With It Comes The Increased Risk Of Localized Flooding From Heavy Storms. City Crews Work Hard To Keep More Than 157 Miles Of Storm Pipes And 4,900 Catch Basins Clear, But You Can Help Too, Right In Your Own Neighborhood. Adopting a catch basin is simple. Just sign up, check on your adopted basin once a month, and clear away any debris as needed. Then send in proof of your cleanup to earn points toward rewards. It’s an easy way to help reduce flooding and protect our waterways. Get started today: www.hollywoodfl.org/adoptacatchbasin You can also help by properly disposing of coconuts, lawn clippings, and yard waste. Toss coconuts in your garbage cart and never sweep or blow debris into the street or storm drains. Need to report a catch basin issue? Call the Underground Utilities Division at: (954) 921-3046. Flood Safety Tips Call 911 if flooding creates an emergency in your home, such as a fire. Never drive through flooded streets. Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Be careful with electrical cords, appliances, and outlets if water has entered your home. Avoid walking in standing flood water. It may contain harmful bacteria, sharp objects, or other hidden hazards. Keep kids and pets away from it too. If you experience flood damage, contact your homeowner's or auto insurance company right away for guidance on documentation and cleanup. For more stormwater information, visit: www.hollywoodfl.org/103/Stormwater . Sign Up for Emergency Alerts Stay informed during storms and emergencies with Alert Hollywood. This free notification system sends updates via phone, email, or text about severe weather, police activity, and other urgent events. Register now at: www.hollywoodfl.org/725/Alert-Hollywood . Click the Alert Hollywood logo, then select "Sign Up" to get started. You’ll receive alerts automatically when the National Weather Service issues warnings—just be sure to opt in for weather notifications. Standard text message rates from your carrier may apply. Previous Next

Florida's Protein Squeeze - Families Cut Beef, Shrink Portions And Serve More Meat-Free Meals. South Florida Sun Times Aug 27, 2026 Recent Reports Have Highlighted How Rising Grocery Prices Are Forcing Families To Cut Back On Fresh Fruit And Vegetables. However, New Research Suggests That Households Are Buying Less Animal Protein, Instead Switching To Plant-Based Sources, Cheaper Alternatives Or Serving Smaller Portions. That is according to a survey of 3,042 households commissioned by MarketBeat, a financial media company, which found that 69% have lowered the amount or type of meat, seafood or dairy they purchase because of rising grocery prices over the past 12 months. This means that 6,039,439 Florida households are cutting protein. Animal protein sits at the center of both the household grocery budget and the wider consumer economy. Meat and seafood are among the more expensive essentials Americans purchase each week, meaning they are often among the first items to be swapped, stretched, downgraded or reduced when prices rise. “For many people, meat and seafood have traditionally been treated as a basic part of the weekly grocery shopping, but these findings show that many households are now approaching it as an expense that must be carefully managed,” says Matt Paulson, Founder of MarketBeat. “Families are doing more than changing brands. They are changing what they eat, how often they eat it and how much they put on the plate.” Beef Is Taking the Biggest Hit Beef is by far the protein source that Florida households have cut back on the most. Among respondents, 43% identified beef as the main protein they had reduced, compared with 10% who selected fish or seafood and 8% who named chicken or turkey, followed by pork at 8% and dairy at 7%. The findings suggest that households are not abandoning animal protein altogether but are becoming more selective, particularly with higher-priced products such as beef and seafood. Nearly half of respondents (47%) said their household had replaced beef with a vegetarian protein source, such as beans or lentils, because of price increases. “Beef has become one of the first places families feel pressure in the protein budget,” Paulson says. “When prices rise, people reduce or replace. The fact that almost half have switched from beef to a vegetarian alternative shows how quickly an everyday purchase can become an occasional one.” Meat-Free Meals Are Becoming a Money-Saving Strategy Serving meals without meat or fish has become a regular cost-saving measure for many households in the Sunshine State. More than half of respondents (51%) said their household now serves a meal without meat or fish at least twice a week, specifically to save money. This includes 10% who do so every day, 13% who serve meat-free or fish-free meals four to six times per week and 28% who do so two or three times per week. A further 16% serve such a meal once per week, while 11% do so less frequently. Only 22% said they never serve a meal without meat or fish specifically for financial reasons. The results suggest that what may once have been an occasional dietary choice is increasingly becoming a routine budgeting strategy. “For many families, a meat-free meal is less about preference and more about making the grocery budget stretch,” Paulson continues. “When that happens several times a week, it starts to look like a real change in how people eat.” Some Adults Are Giving Up Their Own Portions The financial pressure surrounding meat and seafood is also affecting how food is divided within households. More than half of respondents (58%) said they had personally eaten a smaller portion or skipped a protein-rich food so their children or another household member could have more. This finding illustrates that the protein squeeze is not simply changing shopping lists. In many households, it influences who eats what once the groceries reach the table. Matt Paulson says: “This may be the most concerning finding in the survey. People are not only changing what they buy. Many are eating less themselves so someone else in the household can have more. That shows how much grocery prices are affecting everyday life around the family dinner table.” Eggs Are the Most Common Budget Fallback When Floridians need a more affordable protein alternative, eggs are the most popular option. Almost one-quarter of respondents (24%) named eggs as their household’s main budget fallback. Processed meats such as hot dogs or deli meat followed at 13%, while 12% selected beans. Canned tuna or other canned fish was chosen by 9%, followed by peanut butter at 8%, dairy products at 4%, protein powder at 3%, and lentils at 2%. Another 24% said their household did not have a regular budget to fall back on. “Households are becoming increasingly resourceful,” Paulson says. “Eggs, beans, canned fish and peanut butter can all help stretch a budget, but the need for a regular backup plan also shows that many families can no longer rely on buying their preferred protein from one week to the next.” Weekly Discounts Are Dictating What Families Eat For many Florida parents, the decision over what protein to purchase is now driven primarily by supermarket promotions rather than personal preference or meal planning. Seven in ten parents (70%) said they now decide what protein to buy mainly based on what is discounted that week. This reliance on promotions may help households maintain some variety, but it also suggests that consumers are becoming more exposed to changing prices and less able to purchase the same foods consistently. As households move between discounted cuts of meat, canned foods, eggs and plant-based alternatives, protein choices are increasingly being determined in the grocery aisle rather than before the shopping trip begins. “Weekly sales are having a bigger influence on what families put on the table,” Paulson adds. “More people are planning meals around what is affordable instead of what they would normally prefer to eat. That is a pretty clear sign that household budgets are getting tighter.” Animal Protein Is Starting to Feel Like a Luxury Two-thirds of respondents (67%) said rising prices had made meat, seafood and dairy feel more like a luxury than a basic grocery item. The finding reflects how foods traditionally seen as everyday staples can gradually become discretionary purchases when household budgets are stretched. Rather than asking which meat, fish or dairy product they prefer, many shoppers are now asking whether they can afford to include it at all. The strain is also reaching beyond shopping decisions. Nearly one-third of respondents, 32%, said disagreements about grocery spending had increased within their household because of the cost of meat, fish and dairy. For more information, visit: https://www.marketbeat.com/articles/survey-reveals-us-households-are-cutting-back-on-protein-as-grocery-prices-rise/%C2%A0 Previous Next

How To Navigate Family Feelings About Returning To School (Family Features) August 5, 2021 Share This year may be more emotional, as many families spent the better part of the past two school years, at home, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Whether it's your child's first day of Kindergarten or the start of Middle School, back-to-school season can bring a range of feelings - from worry to excitement - for the entire family. This year may be more emotional, as many families spent the better part of the past two school years at home, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. "It's important to remember that even in the best of times, it's normal for children to express feelings of sadness, isolation or stress," said Tyreca Elliott, from KinderCare Learning Centers' inclusion services team. "Learning how to address those feelings, helps us build self-confidence, resilience and independence. What's important, is the way adults respond to children's stress. Offering comfort, reassurance and assisting with problem solving, will help children learn and grow from stress, in a positive way." As an added bonus, Elliott said many of the most effective ways to help children learn to navigate their feelings, work just as well with adults. Consider these three tips to help your children (and yourself), to manage emotions, during the transition back to school. Plan ahead: The fear of the unknown can be stressful. Children who aren't able to clearly articulate their feelings, won't be able to make the connection between new, uncertain situations - like going to school, being around other people - and their feelings. Instead, they may become overwhelmed by emotions, which might look like more meltdowns, clinginess or a variety of other behaviors. Talk with your children about how they feel about going back to school, ahead of the first day of class. Ask questions to help them determine, why they feel particular feelings, when they think about school, then work together to solve potential issues. That could mean finding a way to meet your children's teachers ahead of time, whether virtually or in-person or practicing with introducing themselves to other classmates. Build a consistent routine: Routines can give children (and adults), a sense of security and structure, which in turn, makes it easier to cope with big emotions like stress and anxiety. Try to stay consistent, if you need to make adjustments, talk them through with your children. Be sure to mention key milestones, instead of time frames, particularly, if they can't tell time yet. Make sure your children have opportunities to ask questions about any changes to routines. They may need reassurance, before they're ready to face something new. Create special family moments: As important as routine is, it's just as important to prioritize quality time together. That could mean a vacation or something as simple as Saturday bike rides or Sunday morning pancakes. Plan a family outing or special times together, to celebrate completing the first week of school. Family rituals and celebrations, can give children and adults something to look forward to. Quality time together, also helps families build resiliency. < Previous News Next News >

Trick Or Treat - Where To Celebrate Halloween As An Adult In SoFlo October 18, 2024 Share As the air dips a few degrees, South Florida transforms into a vibrant tapestry of Halloween spookiness and the heartfelt celebrations of Día de Los Muertos. From haunted houses that thrill the bravest souls to colorful altars honoring departed loved ones, the region offers a unique blend of traditions and festivities. Whether you’re seeking spine-chilling adventures or cultural experiences filled with music, art, and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in SoFlo this October. Join us as we explore the best places to celebrate these iconic events and embrace the magic of the season! Fall Festival & Pumpkin House: Beginning Friday, October 18th through Sunday, October 20th, the hotel’s Bayside Terrace will transform into an immersive pumpkin paradise as the iconic property hosts its first ever Fall Festival & Pumpkin House. The family-friendly experience will feature pumpkin decorating, games such as pumpkin bowling and corn hole, and Fall-themed photo opps to capture the picture-perfect day. Attendees can also indulge in seasonal bites and beverages. Guests have the option to purchase a general admission ticket which includes one small pumpkin ($20 per person), or an all-inclusive ticket which includes one medium pumpkin and a draft of Sam Adams Octoberfest Beer ($40 per person). Each ticket grants a 90-minute time slot for admission. Tickets are available for purchase online through Miami Bucket Listers – https://bucketlisters.com/experience/fall-fest-and-pumpkin-house - For more information, visit: www.icmiamihotel.com/fall-fest. Howl-O-Ween Paws Patio: On Wednesday, October 23rd, pamper your pup to a special spooky edition of Paws Patio™ as InterContinental Miami hosts a Howl-O-Ween Doggie Contest. Get in the Halloween spirit on the Bayside Terrace from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., where dogs are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes for a chance to win paw-some prizes (and barking rights). The tail-waggin' good time is hosted by TourWithTeddy and includes free Puppuccinos and more fun surprises. InterContinental Miami is located at 100 Chopin Plaza, Miami, Florida 33131. For more information, please visit: www.icmiamihotel.com/play. Bulla Gastrobar: On Wednesday, October 30th from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Bulla Gastrobar is hosting a thrilling Masquerade Murder Mystery Prix Fixe dinner party at all locations. Guests will step into a world of suspense and intrigue as they play a role in unraveling a captivating crime. For just $100 per person, there will be a sumptuous multi-course dinner that begins with delectable appetizers, including Tabla Mixta featuring Tantilla, Manchego, Serrano Ham, Chorizo, Walnuts, and Olives, alongside a Classic Ensalada César. The main course is a delicious Paella Mixta, with Calamari, Clams, Shrimp, Chicken, Chorizo, Sofrito, and Saffron. To top off dinner, there will be delightful Churros Con Chocolate for dessert. For an additional $20 guests can have the chance to sip sangrias all night long. Bulla Gastrobar is located at 5335 Northeast 87th Avenue, Suite#: C102, Doral, Florida 33178; 2500 Ponce de Leon, Coral Gables, Florida 33134; and 8870 Southwest 136th Street, Suite#: RR01, Miami, Florida 33176. For more information about any location, please visit: https://bullagastrobar.com . Amelia’s 1931: For Halloween this year, guests have the opportunity to step back into 1931, where the bubbly is flowing and the night takes a dramatic turn. On Tuesday, October 29th at 7:00 p.m., Amelia’s 1931 will be taken over by mobsters; a gasp rings out, and suddenly… there’s a murder to solve. For $125 per person, bring your sharpest detective skills and biggest appetite to this immersive three-course dinner, brought to life by the creative minds of Chef Eileen Andrade and Culinary Director Vinnie Ortega. Enjoy thrilling twists, delicious bites, and drink pairings that will keep the intrigue alive all night long. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind Halloween event. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit: www.amelias1931.com . Amelia’s 1931 is located at 13601 Southwest 26 Street, Miami, Florida 33175. Telephone: (305) 554-4949. Follow on Social Media: @amelias1931. Toro Toro: Spooky season just got sweeter! This October, Sixty Vines invites guests on a Halloween candy and wine tasting adventure designed for the kid in all of us (21+ please). The restaurant, known for its eco-friendly wine on tap system, will offer rotating wine flights paired with classic Halloween candy for an all treats – no tricks pairing experience. Each week guests can discover a new varietal paired with candy classics, creating a fun and unique tasting experience with every visit this October. Wine and candy options will vary by week, but here are examples of the lineups: October 21st - October 31st: Cabernet Sauvignon – The bold flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon balanced with indulgent treats like Martin Ray ‘Synthesis’; with Twix, J Bookwalter ‘Notebook’ with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or Chappellet ‘Mountain Cuvee’. The wine and candy pairings will rotate weekly throughout October at all Sixty Vines locations, ensuring there’s always something new to taste and experience. Sixty Vines Miami is located at Miami Worldcenter at 150 Northeast 8th Street, Suite#: 135, Miami, Florida 33132. The restaurant serves lunch, dinner, and brunch on Saturday and Sunday until 3:00 p.m. For more information, please visit: www.sixtyvines.com . Self-parking and valet parking are available. 511 Bar & Lounge: On Saturday, October 26th, Halloween enthusiasts can head over to 511 Bar & Lounge during the Las Olas Halloween Bar Crawl from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Get ready for an unforgettable night of drinks, dancing, and spooky fun. With your $25 ticket, you’ll gain entry to five (5) different bars on Las Olas Blvd, including 511 Bar & Lounge. Enjoy no cover charges, one free drink at each bar, exclusive food and drink specials, and a chance to win big in the costume contest. 511 Bar & Lounge is located at 511 Northeast 3rd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301. For more information, please visit: @LasOlasBarCrawl. And at: www.511bar.com Lona Cocina & Tequileria: Celebrate Halloween and Día de Los Muertos oceanside at Fort Lauderdale’s hottest Mexican eatery Lona Cocina & Tequileria. On Sunday, October 27th, Lona is kicking off the spooky celebrations early with a themed Ghostly Brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For $49++ per person, guests can enjoy bottomless beverages including Lona Margaritas, Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas, while indulging in live action stations including a Guacamole Bar, Tacos Station, Omelet & Waffle Stations, as well as special Halloween offerings. All kids under age 12 who arrive in costume will enjoy a complimentary brunch packed with spooky treats and festive delights. The festivities continue on Thursday, October 31st with a fang-tastic Halloween Noche Latinacelebration. Starting at 8:00 p.m., get into the spooky spirit with live DJ entertainment, select tacos for $5 each and signature Lona Margaritas for $10. Guests who dress to impress in costume will receive one complimentary Lona Margarita. In addition, from October 31st to November 2nd, imbibers can sip on a special Halloween themed cocktail – The Red Witch – featuring: Tequila, Mezcal, Orange Juice, Lime Juice and Hibiscus for $15. Reservations are encouraged and can be made online on OpenTable. Lona is located at The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort at 321 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. Discounted Valet Parking is available. For more information, visit: www.lonarestaurant.com ; Telephone: (954) 245-3069. Follow on Instagram: @lonarestaurantfll < Previous News Next News >

Have It Sweet Like Honey, Honey! By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil September 22, 2022 Share “Shana Tovah Umetuka” - “May you have a good and sweet year” is what we typically wish each other in the month leading up to the Jewish New Year and I bet you’ve always wondered why we give a double wish, that the year should be both good and sweet. If it's good, isn't it sweet? It's got to be more than just poetic! The Talmud teaches us that everything that happens in the world is for the good and although many times it seems far from good, you should know that ultimately it somehow is for the good. We therefore wish each other, that not just should you have a good year, but also a sweet one. A year that is not just ultimately for the good, but rather one where the good is obvious to all. A year that is deliciously sweet! Many give each other Tegalach, Honey Cookies or Honey Cake - known as Lekach. In fact the Chassidic custom is to specifically ask someone, usually the Rabbi, but not necessarily for a piece or a Shtickel Lekach. We hope and pray that if there's anything that we must ask or beg anyone for in the coming year, we should fulfill it with that ask. It is also the custom of eating sweet foods on Rosh Hashanah itself, especially an Apple dipped in Honey with a special prayer that G-d grant us a good and sweet year. The Challah is dipped in Honey. A special dish known as Tzimmes is a European Carrot Concoction cooked in Honey. As well as many other foods we eat with honey. My mother’s z'ls delicious Tzimmes included Chuck Fleish and Marrow Bones and was one of the most delicious dishes ever. Ah, good memories! Of course by now you surely know that the theme of Honey throughout this season symbolizes the sweet year we all yearn for. But why specifically Honey? Why not Sugar or Splenda? For starters, Israel was blessed to be a land flowing with Milk and Honey! Eating Honey, wherever we may be, reminds us of our Ancient Homeland and our deep connection to Israel. Have you ever seen an expiration date on Honey? Honey can last for a really long time! A quick Google search will tell you that honey can last for centuries, but perhaps it can even last longer than that! Many times there are people that get blessings. They win the lottery or stumble across a treasure. But the blessings unfortunately don't always last and all their money can disappear as fast as it appeared. On Rosh Hashanah we pray that we not only get a blessed year, but that the blessing lasts. Furthermore, Honey can be used as a Preservative. When Adam and Eve, whose birthdays we celebrate on Rosh Hashanah, were created, they were commanded to work the earth and to guard it. To protect it and all that it contains. To preserve the world and constantly make it a better place. I wish each and every one of you a Shana Tovah Umetuka! May you and your families be blessed with a Happy And Healthy, Good And Sweet New Year! May you be showered with blessings and may they last for a very long time! May you always be there for others! May you be a preservative for this beautiful world and help bring it to the perfection G-d has intended for it! May this year be your best year ever! This year we will celebrate Rosh Hashanah beginning Sunday evening, September 25th, 2022 at sundown and concluding Tuesday evening, September 27th, 2022 at nightfall. To learn more about Rosh Hashanah and the many customs associated with it visit: www.ChabadChayil.org/HHolidays. You can also pick up a FREE Holiday Guide at Chabad Chayil's office or call us and we will be happy to mail it to you. I encourage you to attend your local Chabad or Synagogue to enjoy Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot and all the High Holidays to their fullest. Of course you can always join us at The Family Shul for Services or Holiday Dinner, but you would need to RSVP in advance at: (305) 770-1919 Or visit: www.TheFamilyShul.com . The community dinner will of course include: Apples Dipped in Honey, Traditional Round Challah, Gefilte Fish, my mother’s Tzimmes Recipe, Kugel and all the delicious Holiday Foods! About the author: Rabbi Kievman is the ambassador of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. He's founder of CHAP - an Afterschool Program for Jewish Children in Public Schools, Rabbi at The Family Shul and together with his wife directs Chabad Chayil. He can be reached at: (305) 770-1919. Or at: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org . < Previous News Next News >

A Whole New World: Disney’s Aladdin JR Performed By The Hochberg Lower School Tue May 16 2023 16:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Empowering The Canvas: Femme Fatale - An Evening Celebrating The Power Of Women Artists April 17, 2024 Share On May 17th, 2024, the Hilton Miami Aventura will be adorned with an array of captivating paintings, each stroke telling a story of strength, beauty, and resilience. This event, titled "Femme Fatale: An Evening Celebrating the Power of Women Artists," invites attendees to immerse themselves in the world of two remarkable artists, Julia Dogan and Alina Shimova. From 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the hotel lobby will be transformed into a gallery, offering a platform to admire the striking artwork and delve into the unique perspectives of these talented female creators. A Glimpse Into Conceptual Realism Dogan and Shimova, through their distinctive style of conceptual realism, offer more than just aesthetically pleasing paintings; they invite viewers on a profound journey into the depths of the human psyche. Their artwork serves as a mirror reflecting the internal struggles and triumphs encountered in the pursuit of personal growth. Each brushstroke encapsulates the emotional and psychological turmoil inherent in the quest to become one's best self. It's a testament to the strength and resilience found within, a celebration of the power that resides in every individual, especially in women who often navigate unique challenges on their path to self-discovery. The paintings showcased at the exhibition are not merely static images but windows into the complexities of the human experience. They explore themes of beauty, power, and danger, urging viewers to confront their inner demons with courage and determination. The artists skillfully weave together elements of vulnerability and resilience, inviting the audience to reflect on their own fears, strengths, and weaknesses. As spectators gaze upon these masterpieces, they embark on an introspective journey, unraveling layers of emotions and insights that resonate with their own life experiences. An Evening Of Inspiration And Reflection The event promises more than just visual delight; it offers a multi-sensory experience that engages the mind, heart, and soul. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from the artists during the "Artist Remarks" session at 6:00 p.m., gaining valuable insights into the inspiration behind their work and the creative process. Moreover, live music at 8:00 p.m. will further enhance the ambiance, adding an auditory dimension to the artistic immersion. After exploring the captivating artwork, guests are invited to continue the artistic journey at Gala restaurant, where they can indulge in an art-inspired dinner experience. This culinary adventure promises to tantalize the taste buds while stimulating conversation and connection among attendees. It's an opportunity to savor not only exquisite flavors but also enriching discussions inspired by the evening's artistic theme. To ensure a seamless experience, complimentary self-parking will be provided in the garage, allowing attendees to focus on enjoying the event to the fullest. RSVP is free and can be done at: www.galaandmusebar.com , securing a place at this unique celebration of female creativity and empowerment. The Hilton Miami Aventura is located at: 2885 Northeast 191st Street Aventura, Florida 33180. "Femme Fatale: An Evening Celebrating the Power of Women Artists" promises to shine a spotlight on the remarkable talent and resilience of female creators. Julia Dogan and Alina Shimova's artwork serves as a testament to the strength, beauty, and complexity of the female experience, inspiring viewers to embrace their own journey of self-discovery and empowerment. As attendees immerse themselves in the captivating world of art, they'll not only witness the transformative power of creativity but also celebrate the indomitable spirit of women everywhere. RSVP for FREE at: www.galaandmusebar.com . < Previous News Next News >

Fraud And Cyber Crime In Hallandale Beach And Beyond By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper March 14, 2024 Share We hear all the time that South Florida is a hot bed for Fraud. In my capacity as Mayor of Hallandale Beach I hear it all the time. This Condominium Board is stealing. The president has to be taking kickbacks that is why the contracts to do work are so high. It is pretty easy to get caught up in the speculation. In the super majority of times there is not an ounce of truth or any proof that would create a case against Boards or Board Members. If you do have proof of Financial Fraud even then it has to be pretty clear and or substantial for cities to pursue a case. Often when PD believes they have something to report, the SA weighs in on the merits and often does not prosecute. It is not because they do not care, it is due to the fact these investigations are very time-consuming. This time equates to taxpayers dollars being spent. Even when they go to court often there is no jail time, Cases result in a slap on the hand and a fine. Think about this example. Some of the big banks who have laundered money for cartels get fined and not one banker ends up in jail. We have referred a few cases in Hallandale Beach over the years to the State that were prosecuted. So not all hope is lost. The real question is do our departments have the personnel hours to spend when there are all types of Crime? Our Chief and the State Attorney need to weigh the costs versus the probable outcomes. These types of white-collar crimes take time and taxpayers dollars. We know when a crime impacts you directly, crime just went off 100% for you. Fraud in condominiums is not to be taken lightly by any means. The issue becomes prioritization. Our state of Florida ranks 5th nationwide for fraud. Recently, the South Florida Business Journal reported that Lending Tree evaluated data from the Federal Trade Commission and found over $252 Million Dollars in Fraud of which they were aware. How much went under reported or not reported at all? Fraud and Identity Theft have been around for years. They are Crimes of opportunity. Unexpecting people can and will become victims. The Crime Scene is the same but is now more insidious with the abundance of cellular phones and computers. The worldwide web, while being an amazing resource for information and knowledge, is the new tool for bad actors that are committing Cybercrime. It is projected that a minimum of 422 million people nationally will be targeted. Over 33 billion accounts will be projected to be breached from Phishing Ransomware or targeted attacks on big organizations. This equates to 2,328 per day and 97 Cybercrime Victims every hour. Please do not turn off your devices just yet. What you need to do is treat it just like your apartment or house. Get security. Just like when you are at home never let anyone in you do not know. Never click on the email that just does not look right. If you see something free just for you, you have won a prize, a bank or vendor is asking to confirm information and delete it. Never give out any of your information without knowing the person and confirming directly with your Vendor, Credit Card Company or Bank. Florida has always been a top target for these crimes, but we are also one of the first states to pass Cybercrime Laws. In 1978 the State passed the Computer Crimes Act. Fast forward to today, we now have statewide requirements. After the Cyberattacks from China, everyone realizes how vulnerable our systems were. China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are the world's bad actors. In 2022 the Florida Legislators passed the State Cybersecurity Act. The Bill is part of Chapter 282 that covers Communication and Data Processing. It ensures our state including all county and local government bodies has rules and guidelines to protect vital data that is entrusted to us. Each county with a population of 75,000 or more must have adopted the Cybersecurity Standards Required by this Subsection by January 1st, 2024. Each community with a population of less than 75,000 must adopt the Cybersecurity Standards Required by this Subsection by January 1st, 2025. The Act also Requires that a Local Government shall provide notification of a Cybersecurity Incident or Ransomware Incident to the Cybersecurity Operations Center, Cybercrime Office of the Department of Law Enforcement, and Sheriff who have authority over the Local Government in accordance. Elected Officials are now Required to take a 4-hour class on Cybersecurity. Like the National Incident Management Systems training for Hurricanes, we now treat Cybersecurity with the same preparedness mission. We just completed the class last week and it was very eye opening. The major message we heard was our City has and is doing everything we need to do. We have a great team and collaborate directly with the Cyber Security Operations Center addressing threats. The second message was to make sure you change your passwords regularly on your Devices and Apps. Add: Two Step Authentications on all your Devices and Apps. This sometimes can be annoying, but it can protect you just like locking your doors. I will leave you with a bit of statistics to ease any fears that I may have created. Because of new security measures and continual improvement 80%-90% of hacks are stopped. With additional controls like: Two Step Authentication Firewalls and Encryption on your browser setting 10-20% attacks can be failed and closed. The goal is to be vigilant and never let your guard down! As always feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City better! I can be reached at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or: joycooper@aol.com . Or Facebook Mayor Joy Cooper. You can always call my Office number at: (954) 457-1318. Or Call/Text me at: (954) 632-5700. Working for you! Always have! Always will! Editor's Note: The Florida State Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Senior Protection Team has an intra-agency group of experts working together to fight fraud. The team is comprised of leading members from the Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution, Consumer Protection Division, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and Office of Citizen Services. Seniors v. Crime and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement will also actively assist the team with investigations and outreach efforts. For more information about how to tell if a senior may be a victim of financial fraud and how to guard against senior scams, call: 1-866-9-NO-SCAM or visit: https://www.myfloridalegal.com/consumer-protection/senior-protection for more information. < Previous News Next News >

Shop With A Cop: Santa Claus Stopped in Hallandale Beach last Week By Steve Cummings December 16, 2021 Share The holiday season is traditionally a period for family gatherings and sharing good will with family and loved ones. One of the great joys is providing food and gifts for those who are less fortunate and making them feel inclusive. For the past 21 years, the Hallandale Beach Police Department has rallied the community to assist with the annual Shop With A Cop Program allowing deserving children to stroll the aisles at Walmart selecting gifts for Christmas. The event has needed revisions for the past few years due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, but Jonathan Carrillo, Program Director of the Hallandale Beach Police and Activities League has ensured that 100 fortunate children had their dreams fulfilled in 2021. Jonathan Carrillo had reached out to participants from Gulf-stream Academy, The Police Athletic and Activities League, selections identified by community resource officers and assembled volunteers from the civic organizations including police officers, teachers and young adults to procure the wish lists of the children from Walmart. The cafeteria at Gulfstream Academy was decorated in festive decor as the excited children feasted on food donated by Chick-fil-A, courtesy of Aventura Store Manager, Ricardo Mendez along with cookies and gingerbread houses provided by Walmart. Jubilant faces lit up the room as LOL (laughing out loud) dolls, bicycles, scooters and computer games were the presents of choice as gift wrapped paper covered the floor. Jonathan Carrillo recognizes that the arduous process of shopping, wrapping and organizing the gifts was made seamless by the cooperative efforts of the staff members at Gulfstream Academy while the event was made possible with generous donations by the Windhover Foundation, David Burton, Page Properties, R.B. Foundation, the Kiwanis Club of Hallandale Beach, Caron Foundation, Dr. Joseph A. Amunategui II, Walmart, Chick-fil-A and the Hallandale Beach Police and Activities League. Many thanks to the men and women who are Hallandale Beach Police Department Officers that frolicked with the kids and carefully supervised the safety of 100 youngsters aged five through thirteen who anxiously opened their presents leaving an indelible joyous holiday experience. Steve Cummings is a Past Lt. Governor with Kiwanis International and can be reached at: (954) 907-2392. < Previous News Next News >

Florida Toll Relief: A New Program Saved Commuters Over $41 Million In March Alone April 27, 2023 Share The Toll Relief Program introduced by Governor DeSantis and enacted by the Florida Legislature launched on January 1st, 2023. Now in its third month, Florida commuters continue to see significant savings as a result of the program. In the month of March, account credits of $41.5 Million were posted to 1 million customer accounts. You already know SunPass customers save money on tolls when compared to TOLL-BY-PLATE, but with the Toll Relief Program, customers can save even more on tolls! No registration is required. SunPass customers just need to meet the eligibility requirements found at: https://www.sunpass.com/en/about/tollrelief.shtml The year-long program automatically gives customers with at least 35 monthly toll transactions a 50 percent credit to their account. Since the program’s inception in January, more than $112 Million in Toll Relief credits have been issued benefiting 1.2 million Floridians. “With a savings of $112 Million received so far, Florida families are seeing real assistance from the Toll Relief program every month,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “The Department is thrilled to continue our support of this program and we thank Governor DeSantis for providing our customers with additional opportunities to meet today’s economic challenges.” “As the state’s toll agency, Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise is proud to offer our loyal customers the opportunity to enjoy increased toll savings,” said Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise Executive Director and CEO, Nicola Liquori. “In just the first three months, the Toll Relief Program has been extremely successful in helping to ease the financial burden on Florida’s families.” The Toll Relief program builds on the successful SunPass Savings Program that concluded in December 2022 and resulted in 384,000 drivers saving over $18 Million. The legislation, originally proposed by Governor DeSantis in September 2022, was successfully passed during a Legislative Special Session in November. Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 6A on December 15th, establishing the Toll Relief program through the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The program runs through December 31st, 2023 and is expected to provide an average of 1.2 million drivers with savings of nearly $480 over the course of the year. The Toll Relief Program is administered by Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise and includes SunPass as well as other Florida-based tolling agency partners throughout the state. Customers are encouraged to ensure their transponder is properly mounted in the vehicle and their account is in good standing to participate in the program. A map of included toll facilities in the Toll Relief Program can be found here. SunPass is the prepaid electronic toll collection program operated by Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, the toll agency for the state. To learn more about SunPass, please visit: www.SunPass.com - Or call: 1 (888) TOLL-FLA 1 (888) 865-5352. < Previous News Next News >