Attention Condo Owners & Board Members: Changes to HOA Laws are Different from the Condominium Law Changes By Christopher Carter - Real Estate Broker Associate August 8, 2024 Share The Florida Legislature had a very busy session earlier this year, passing some far-reaching Bills related to residential Owners Associations, HB-1203 for HOAs and HB-1021 for Condominiums. The Governor signed them into law in time for their effective date of July 1st, so we now have notable changes in the laws regulating HOAs and Condominiums in our State. In the short time these new laws have been in place, multiple news outlets, property owners, Association Boards, and Social Media "experts" have made sweeping statements about how the changes no longer allow (something) or must now allow (something else). Many of these statements are based on incomplete information or hopeful assumptions. Even Florida attorneys can't fully determine to what degree the changes may affect a residential Owners Association without first interpreting that Association's Governing Documents in relation to the new laws. It is quite likely that for the same Association some Statute changes may apply, yet others may not. Yes, really. Important - changes to HOA Laws are different from the Condominium Law changes. Know which one may apply to your Owners Association! Every Homeowners Association (HOA) or Condominium Owners Association (COA) must comply with the appropriate Chapter of Florida Statutes and their own Governing Documents which are recorded in Public Records of the County where the property is located. HB-1203 became law that amended the Homeowners Association Act (FS Chapter 720), and HB-1021 became law that amended the Condominium Act (FS Chapter 718). Governing Documents cannot conflict with the applicable Florida Statute, so what happens when a Statute is amended? Here are some Discussion Points related to our headline question: • An Association's Governing Documents may or may not contain what is called Kaufman Language ("...as amended from time to time") referring to the Homeowners Association Act or the Condominium Act. If similar language is in an HOA's Declaration of Covenants or a COA's Declaration of Condominium, the Governing Docs automatically stay in agreement with any amended Statutes. Kaufman Language keeps an Association's Governing Docs in step with Chapter 720 or Chapter 718 as the Acts may be amended over the years. Best practices suggest that Boards send notices to all Association members/property owners explaining any changes when they occur. • The language is called Kaufman because it comes from a 1977 Florida Civil Lawsuit in which judgment was made in favor of the Lead Plaintiff, Mr. Kaufman. The suit was filed over Florida Statute Application in a North Miami Condominium Association and has become often referred-to case law which is part of this discussion. • Things get much more complex when an HOA or COA Declaration does NOT contain this Kaufman Language. Without some version of "...as amended from time to time" referring to the Homeowners Act or Condominium Act, periodic Statute Amendments by State Legislators may not apply to that Association. Governing Docs without Kaufman are often considered frozen in time to the version of Chapter 720 or 718 that was in place when the Docs were drafted and recorded in County Public Records. Though it is not quite that simple... • Attorneys mention the difference between substantive (affecting owners' rights) changes in the law, and procedural (administrative) changes. Changes affecting owners' existing rights are handled very differently from procedural changes. This is one of the areas in which some parts of the new laws may apply, and some may not. The Association's Attorney has to make that call, not the Board of Directors or Management Company. (Procedural changes usually apply without dispute, substantive changes can be challenged when there is no Kaufman language in an Association's Declaration.) • Neither of the Bills (nor the resulting Statute Amendments) appear to say they apply retroactively. Unless specifically stated otherwise, Florida Statutes are presumed to apply prospectively (going forward from their effective dates). What does this suggest for application to existing Governing Docs? Do the changes apply to all existing Governing Docs or just those drafted or amended after July 1st, 2024? Without specific language, we will likely have to wait for a few civil lawsuits to create case law. • Attorneys also tell us that Governing Documents (in particular, Declarations) create a contract between an Association and its members (property owners). Florida's Constitution includes a section establishing a general rule that amended or new State Legislation cannot interfere with existing contracts between parties. This can include impairing vested rights granted under a Declaration, according to attorneys I asked when researching this article. Does this have any bearing on how the new HOA and Condominium Act Amendments are applied to Associations without Kaufman Language in their Declarations? Only your Association's Attorney can accurately answer that question. • The Florida Legislature's intent when considering and enacting changes in the HOA and Condominium Acts was to protect property owners' rights while promoting proper administration and management of Residential Owners Associations. If Boards do not apply certain parts of the new laws, could that be construed as breach of Fiduciary Duty? We have already heard rumors of Boards selectively deciding which parts of the Amended Statutes they want to enforce, and which they do not. Some Directors and owners are allowing their own Confirmation Bias to influence their interpretations of what the new laws say. This means that parts of the Amended Statutes supporting their points of view could be taken as applicable and enforceable, while those clauses that conflict with their own opinions could be disregarded. Scenario 1: A property owner in a Florida HOA Community wants to park her pickup truck in her driveway, not in the garage as the community's Governing Docs have required since the original Declaration was recorded back in the late 1990’s. She tells the Board they can no longer issue a Violation if she parks her pickup in the driveway because she saw on the evening news that the Recently-Amended HOA Act says so. Not exactly... To determine applicability and enforcement, interpretation and legal advice from the Association's Attorney is needed. This situation may affect an owner's rights (a substantive issue), yet the existing Governing Docs requiring trucks to be parked in a property's garage are part of all owners' contracts with the HOA. Does the Declaration include "...as amended from time to time..." language? Are the posted and distributed Rules & Regulations for residents sufficient basis for continued enforcement? Scenario 2: A Condominium building has a high percentage of seasonal residents. Not many owners occupy their individual units during the summer months from May to October, so Board meetings are not held during those months. And for many years the Board has been comfortable with newly-elected Directors just signing a self-certification saying they read the Governing Docs rather than attending a State-Approved Certification Class presented by a law firm specializing in COA Governance. A well-informed owner brings it to the Board's attention that recently Amended FS Chapter 718 (The Condominium Act) now requires properly-noticed Board meetings to be held at least once each calendar quarter, and that Director self-certification is no longer an option, class attendance is mandatory and retroactive to sitting Directors. The Board President quickly responds that their Declaration does not include "...as amended from time to time" (Kaufman) Language, so none of the new clauses apply to them. The owner reminds the President that the sections on quarterly meetings and Mandatory Director Certification Classes are procedural and do not affect owners' rights, so they DO apply to their Association. Who is right? Only an attorney can answer that question after closely reviewing the Association's Governing Documents and interpreting the Statute Amendments in relation to them. Are you starting to see some of the complications with applying and enforcing the changes? (Note - Procedural changes usually do apply, even without Kaufman Language.) All property owners in Condominium Buildings and HOA Communities should be aware of the significant changes made in Florida Statutes that regulate their Associations. I suggest Boards of Directors consult with the Association's Attorney for clarification on applicability and enforcement, then schedule a Board meeting (with the attorney attending) to present the changes to all owners. Since it is now summer and many owners are "up north," it is a good idea to arrange real-time video of the meeting (Zoom or similar platform) to present the changes within the context of your own Governing Docs and encourage owner questions. Announce the meeting well in advance and multiple times in order to promote owner participation. Be sure your Association Attorney is involved from the start to help explain the changes. Any legal fees for this purpose are money well-spent. Best practices regarding these changes to the HOA and Condominium Acts will take time to sort out. The Florida Legislature has a long history of passing legislation before receiving sufficient input from non-government individuals trained and experienced in the matter being considered, reviewed, and debated. As mentioned above, future civil lawsuits may create case law on which to base more reliable application of these new Statute changes. After all, Kaufman Language itself is based on the outcome of a civil lawsuit that became very significant Florida case law. Until then, only your Association's Attorney can provide dependable, actionable interpretation and guidance. Editor's Note: Christopher Carter is NOT an attorney. He does not give legal advice. For interpretation and application to specific circumstances of anything you read in this article, you must speak with a Florida-Licensed attorney. Have a question or comment about anything you see here, if so, visit: www.TheFloridaRealEstateBlog.com < Previous News Next News >

City-Owned Homes For Sale: Submissions Will Be Accepted Until April 11 April 6, 2023 Share The City of Hollywood has two beautiful, fully renovated homes for sale, along with up to $120,000 with a combination of SHIP and County/CRA/City (ILA) purchase assistance for the qualified, eligible homebuyer. Applicant submissions will be submitted as part of the Hollywood Home Buyer Purchase Assistance Program, which is administered by Broward County. Letter of Intent (LOI) with signed mortgage preapprovals must be submitted by 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 11th, 2023. Applicants may submit for either or both properties: 550 North 66th Terrace, Hollywood, Florida 33024 The home is conveniently located near the Turnpike and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Completely renovated in 2019 and includes: impact resistant windows and exterior doors, dimensional shingle roof and insulation, replaced fascia and soffits, interior and exterior lighting fixtures, Central A/C and Heat, kitchen cabinets with Stainless Steel kitchen appliances, oversized porcelain tile floor throughout, totally renovated master and second bathrooms, full size washer and dryer & Tankless Hot Water Heater, complete exterior and interior paint, two-car concrete driveway with covered carport, landscaped and sodded yard with Irrigation System and fenced rear yard and an upgraded electrical panel and 10-Year Lithium Battery-Operated Smoke Detector System. • Purchase Price: $382,194 • 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms • 1,475 Square Foot Single Family Home 2323 Cleveland Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020 The home is conveniently located near I-95, Downtown Hollywood and 3.6 miles to Hollywood Beach. This home was completely renovated in 2020. Renovations include: exterior impact doors & windows, interior doors, interior and exterior lighting fixtures, roof insulation, Central A/C and Heat, completely updated kitchen cabinets with Stainless Steel kitchen appliances, laminate flooring throughout, completely renovated bathroom, Tankless Hot Water Heater, exterior and interior paint, paver driveway and front walkway, new garage, landscaped and sodded, yard with Irrigation System and fenced rear yard, upgraded electrical panel and a 10-Year Lithium Battery-Operated Smoke Detector System. • Purchase Price: $350,000 • 2 Bedrooms/1 Bathroom • 1-car garage • 922 Square Foot Single Family Home Purchase Assistance The City of Hollywood offers up to $70,000 in GAP purchase assistance to buy either of these homes. The purchase assistance is a second mortgage loan, zero percent (0%) interest, no monthly payments, 30-year term and payable in full at term maturity or property sale, whichever occurs first. At thirty days prior to the maturity date, the City shall offer the mortgagee a refinancing option under the same terms and conditions, so long as the mortgagee has not defaulted on any terms and conditions set forth in the mortgage. The loan will be in default, if any of the following occurs during the loan term: sale, transfer, or conveyance of property; conversion to a rental property; loss of homestead exemption status; failure to occupy the home as primary residence; failure to maintain Fire, Hazard, Flood and Windstorm (where applicable) Insurance in an amount that is adequate to cover all property loans with the City named as loss payee; failure to maintain the property in accordance with all City codes and regulations. If any of these occur it shall be considered a default under the City’s Mortgage and Promissory Note, wherein the City may pursue acceleration of the payment and all other legal remedies to recapture the balance. Buyers must contribute at least 3% of the first loan amount and the purchase assistance amount will fill the “GAP” after the first mortgage loan and buyer’s contributions are applied to the purchase and closing costs. The City of Hollywood extended an existing agreement with Broward County for the administration of the Home Buyer Purchase Assistance Program. Funding will assist eligible first-time homebuyers with a deferred-payment, Conditional Grant up to $50,000.00 to be applied toward the cost of purchasing existing or newly-constructed, eligible affordable housing located in the City. Eligible costs shall include direct purchase assistance, down payment, closing costs, mortgage principal reduction, interest rate buy-down and other such costs which are considered eligible. Who is Eligible? 1. Buyer must have a residential mortgage pre-approval or pre-qualification from a first mortgage lender; loan terms must meet the City’s guidelines. 2. Buyer may select any lender, either from the list provided or outside the list, to provide a first mortgage loan that meets the City’s guidelines. 3. Prior to closing on the purchase of the home, buyers must take a Homebuyer Education Class from a local HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agency. 4. Buyer’s gross annual household income may not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), based on household size. 5. Buyer must NOT have owned a residential property in the prior 3 years (including residential properties in another country). 6. Buyer must have at least 3% of the first mortgage loan amount in liquid assets to submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase. 7. Priority will be given to current City of Hollywood residents with proof of residency. 8. The City of Hollywood will provide the priority buyers and their lenders a copy of the home appraisals. Submittal Process 1. Buyer to submit a signed Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase, signed by both the buyer and the first mortgage lender by the established deadline. LOI must include mortgage pre-approval or pre-qualification letter. 2. By 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 11th, 2023, or once 30 LOIs per home site are received (whichever comes first), the City will pause accepting additional LOI submittals. 3. Priority will be given to current City of Hollywood residents with proof of residency (Government Issued ID, Utility Bill or Lease with a Hollywood address), however all applicants will be accepted. LOIs will be reviewed for completeness on a first come, first qualified, first served basis. 4. First (1st) and second (2nd) place submitters (called 1st priority buyer and 2nd priority buyer/back-up buyer) for each property will be notified by Broward County Housing Finance Division (BCHFD), which is handling buyer qualification/certification. BCHFD will collect documents from these buyers and their lenders for a full application package. 5. Within five (5) business days of notification, 1st and 2nd priority buyers will be required to provide a complete hard copy paper package to BCHFD. 6. In the event the 1st priority buyer is determined ineligible, the backup buyer will be moved to 1st place and the qualification process will continue with backup buyers in accordance with #4. 7. List of documents to be submitted to BCHFD. 8. Buyers to inspect home and provide a signed purchase contract within five (5) business days of notification. 9. City will provide the purchase contract and back-up information for City Commission consideration and once approved, the purchase contract will be signed and sent to BCHFD. 10. BCHFD will gather all necessary information, obtain third party verifications and certify eligible buyers. 11. Once eligibility is confirmed, BCHFD will issue certification memos, review closing disclosure and prepare second mortgage documents. 12. Closing and becoming a happy homeowner! Applicants may submit for both properties, however if the applicant is priority 1 or 2 for both properties, they will have to choose which property they will proceed with. For complete details and to submit documents for either or both properties, please visit: https://www.hollywoodfl.org/1435/City-owned-Homes-For-Sale < Previous News Next News >

Lucky Mint Brownie Perfection Thu Feb 23 2023 17:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Meet Flat Fee Legal Service: Professional Attorneys Serving Victims of Property Damage at no Cost By Austin Torres September 16, 2021 Share If you are the victim of property damage, whether it may be hurricane, flood, windstorm, water or fire-related, the associates at Flat Fee Legal Service will come to you, review your policy and your property damage to provide a free opinion on whether your property is covered and whether you have a valid insurance claim. During Hurricane season, it is especially important to know what your home insurance policy covers in the event that your home is damaged. Local property damage attorney, Jesse O’Hara and his stellar team of professionals at Flat Fee Legal Service are offering free insurance policy reviews and property inspections to ensure you and your family are protected this season. “We are offering free consultations with expert attorneys to review the insurance policies of clients and inform them of what type of coverage they have before the next storm hits us,” says O’Hara. O’Hara, who has handled thousands of property damage claims, has dedicated his legal career to taking on Florida’s insurance companies to ensure that property damage victims are paid what they are rightfully owed on their claims. In most cases, Flat Fee Legal Service provides legal services free of charge to homeowners - as opposed to most other law firms that charge their own clients. “We represent homeowners against their insurance companies in property damage disputes whenever their claims are denied or underpaid. We pay all the upfront costs and are only paid when the homeowner gets paid. The homeowner keeps their portion of the settlement proceeds and we are almost always compensated by the insurance companies, not the homeowner,” says O’Hara. If you are the victim of property damage, whether it may be hurricane, flood, windstorm, water or fire-related, the associates at Flat Fee Legal Service will come to you, review your policy and your property damage to provide a free opinion on whether your property is covered and whether you have a valid insurance claim. Quite often, when a homeowner is the victim of property damage such as a pipe leak, for example, they might hire a plumber and pay them an enormous fee to have it fixed and then submit the bill to their insurance company in hopes of being reimbursed. However, the professional team at Flat Fee Legal Service assists homeowners by working with companies that do not charge the homeowner. Instead, such companies do the work and negotiate directly with the insurance company for their payment. This is a way that we help homeowners fix their homes without going out of pocket or paying legal fees. These companies bill the insurance companies directly instead of taking up-front payment from homeowners. With a strong reputation in trial courts and long-standing relationships with insurance companies, O’Hara and his associates take great pride in assisting clients and ensuring they are paid fairly. Simply put, Flat Fee Legal Service keeps the roof over your head when insurance companies refuse to help. “It’s very rewarding when a court recognizes that your client is right and deserves to have their home fixed. The biggest satisfaction is when we settle their case and hand them their check - they are finally happy they can get their lives back on track. We get a thrill from winning substantial victories on behalf of our clients.” The team at Flat Fee Legal Service is highly engaged with their clients. They pride themselves in being easy to reach and communicate with throughout the entire claims process, which separates them from other larger, less personal firms. “What distinguishes us from a larger firm is that the clients have more one on one attention.” If you are a victim of property damage and are in need of assistance, you can rest assured knowing that the associates at Flat Fee Legal Service will go above and beyond to ensure you are properly compensated by assisting you from the very beginning of your claim all the way until your case is settled. Another aspect that underscores the uniqueness of the Flat Fee Legal Service team is their work culture and accommodating environment. Visitors of their office will note the modern art, highly relaxing, inviting and comforting layout of their office. The firm staff understand how stressful it is to battle your insurance company while your home is in a state of disrepair. By creating a different atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to typical law firms, they foster a welcoming space for visitors that is both brighter and more laid back. In doing this, Flat Fee Legal Service fosters an environment that is more welcoming than other law firms. This ensures that employees and clients alike can communicate and forge beneficial relationships in a healthy and happy space. O’Hara and his team of professionals understand that it is always possible to go above and beyond to assist their clients. Another way in which they hope to achieve this is by educating homeowners through the Florida Property Damage Podcast – a radio-style show that O’Hara hosts and is currently in development. With the goal of interviewing common players in the industry such as public adjusters, water mitigation companies, mold testing companies, attorneys and insurance adjusters, they hope to familiarize the general public with how the intricate insurance claims process really works. Licensed and recognized by Florida’s Supreme Court for his remarkable work in the community, O’Hara and his team hope to continue educating homeowners and helping them get paid money they are rightfully owed. Flat Fee Legal Service is located at 1700 East Las Olas Boulevard, Suite #102, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301. If you are interested in a free consultation, free policy review, or free property damage inspection you can contact them at: (954) 361-7878. Or visit their website at: www.flatfeelegalservice.com < Previous News Next News >

Free Swim Lessons For Kids: YMCA of South Florida Receives $150,000 Grant Fri May 24 2024 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

“Holiday Lights For The Animals” Enjoy The Best “Paw”liday Event Of The Year November 23, 2023 Share The Humane Society of Greater Miami is pulsating with festive cheer, and preparing to deck its halls in a most heartwarming way this holiday season. The stage is set for the 10th Annual "Holiday Lights For The Animals" Event, hosted by the Humane Society of Greater Miami. On the auspicious date of Saturday, December 2nd, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, the Soffer and Fine Adoption Center will transform into a haven of merriment and compassion. This much-anticipated celebration isn't just about twinkling lights and seasonal treats; it's a heartwarming initiative that embodies the spirit of giving, love, and hope for our furry friends. The event promises a delightful fusion of holiday cheer and philanthropy, inviting families—both two-legged and four-legged—to revel in the joyous festivities. Admission is FREE, ensuring that everyone can partake in the jubilant ambiance. Amidst the backdrop of shimmering Christmas Trees and radiant Menorahs, attendees can savor delectable treats from food trucks while relishing creamy hot chocolate to warm the soul on a crisp December night. For both young and young-at-heart, an array of activities awaits. From engaging games and exciting giveaways to an enchanting scavenger hunt, the event is a tapestry of amusement. Children will be enchanted by the holiday bounce house and the joyous rides aboard the trackless train. And, in the midst of this festive revelry, the true stars of the evening, the shelter dogs and cats adorned in their holiday best, will steal hearts with their infectious cheer and love. However, the pinnacle of this heartwarming gathering is the shelter-lighting ceremony—a moment of luminescent splendor that illuminates the shelter, symbolizing the collective hope for each homeless pet to find their forever family. The ambiance is elevated as Santa "Paws" himself graces the event, arriving atop of a City of North Miami Beach Police Truck, a thrilling sight that ignites the spirit of wonder in every attendee. The Humane Society of Greater Miami, a beacon of compassion and advocacy for animals, has been tirelessly devoted to their mission since 1936. Their commitment to being a limited admit, adoption guarantee facility resonates profoundly—the promise that no animal under their care faces the threat of Euthanasia due to constraints of time, space, or treatable medical issues. They nurture these animals, providing shelter, medical care, and unwavering affection until they find their forever homes, regardless of the duration it takes. Their outreach extends beyond sheltering animals; they actively educate the community on responsible pet ownership and advocate for Spay/Neuter Programs. The support garnered from across the county sustains their noble efforts, making it possible for them to create a compassionate community for all creatures. The Holiday Lights for the Animals event is not just a celebration; it's a testament to the power of collective kindness and the boundless capacity for love that exists within the human heart. It's an invitation for the community to join hands in supporting the Humane Society’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of these animals. As the event draws near, Miami braces itself for an evening of jubilation and compassion, where every light that twinkles signifies a beacon of hope for the voiceless, a reminder that the holidays are about giving, sharing, and spreading love to all creatures, great and small. So, mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and immerse yourself in the magic of the season while lending a helping hand to those who need it the most—the animals who eagerly await a place to call home. So much fun awaits – Save The Date: WHO: Humane Society of Greater Miami WHAT: Holiday Lights For The Animals Event WHEN: Saturday, December 2nd, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. WHERE: Soffer and Fine Adoption Center located at 16101 West Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach, Florida 33160 The 10th Annual "Holiday Lights For The Animals" Event, hosted by the Humane Society of Greater Miami, is poised to be an unforgettable celebration of compassion and joy. It's an evening that promises not just festive revelry but an opportunity to be part of a movement that champions love, kindness, and the welfare of our beloved furry companions. Save the date and join this heartwarming event, as together, we light up the holidays for those who deserve it the most. < Previous News Next News >

YMCA Of South FL Breaks Ground - Transformational YMCA Family Center Soon To Be A Gathering Place At Holiday Park In Fort Lauderdale South Florida Sun Times Feb 19, 2026 Leadership From The YMCA Of South Florida, Broward Health And The City Of Fort Lauderdale Welcomed Donors, Partners And Community Leaders To Celebrate The Groundbreaking Of The Newest YMCA Family Center And Adjacent Broward Health Emergency Department (ED) At Holiday Park in Fort Lauderdale. Rooted In Holiday Park’s More Than 75-Year Legacy As Fort Lauderdale’s “Backyard,” The New Y Will Honor The Park’s Rich History While Building A Healthier Future For Generations To Come. This transformational project, with a combined 60,000-Square-Foot YMCA and Broward Health ED, will sit on a 3.5-acre site, donated by the City of Fort Lauderdale. Located adjacent to The Parker, this unique hub is designed to build a healthier community for all ages and bring new programs and services to east Fort Lauderdale. Not only will Fort Lauderdale be the first city in South Florida to have two YMCA locations, but this is also the first YMCA in the country to include an ED as part of its footprint and is the first freestanding ED for Broward Health in Fort Lauderdale. “We are very proud to stand on the grounds of Holiday Park and honored to partner with Broward Health,” said YMCA of South Florida President and CEO Sheryl A. Woods. “We couldn’t do this without our partners and supporters, including the City of Fort Lauderdale. With their support, this new, State-Of-The-Art YMCA will be a destination for all ages, abilities and backgrounds. It will be a real community hub, filled with healthy living, learning and community options and activities.” The 48,000-Square-Foot YMCA will offer a full-service health and wellness facility, including an aquatics center with a six-lane pool, indoor basketball court, State-Of-The-Art Fitness Center, youth sports, summer camps, after school programs, health and wellness programs and community rooms and will annually serve more than 15,000 children and families, including seniors and teens. The adjacent Broward Health 12,000-Square-Foot freestanding Emergency Department will bring full emergency services closer to home for residents including on-site imaging, such as CT scans and X-rays, and lab work and exam treatment areas staffed by board-certified emergency physicians. Broward Health will also occupy 2,000 Square Feet on the wellness floor of the new YMCA. Together, Broward Health and the YMCA will deliver community health education and programs designed to improve the quality of health and lives of residents. “This is a momentous occasion as we expand our geographic footprint with a much-needed freestanding Emergency Department to support the City of Fort Lauderdale’s rapidly developing population,” said Shane Strum, President & CEO of Broward Health. “With the YMCA and the City of Fort Lauderdale as partners, we will broaden access to high-quality care and help shape the future of our community’s healthcare landscape.” Spanning more than 90 acres, Holiday Park has long been a central gathering place for Fort Lauderdale residents, offering a variety of amenities such as walking paths, a dog park, pickleball courts, numerous sports fields and more. The addition of the YMCA builds on this legacy and will serve as a gateway to the community and create a comprehensive destination for community engagement and recreation. The General Contractor for the project is Gulf Building, LLC in Fort Lauderdale and the architect is Stratus Team, LLC, formerly Zyscovich, in Miami. Completion is slated for 2027. For additional information and updates, please visit: www.ymcasouthflorida.org/location/holiday-park-ymca . For more information about the Y, visit: www.ymcasouthflorida.org . For more information about Broward Health, visit: www.BrowardHealth.org . 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: www.YMCASouthFlorida.org . About Broward Health Broward Health, founded in 1938 and headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, ranks among the 10 largest public healthcare systems in the United States. Nationally recognized for its focus on high-quality care for the residents of Broward County and beyond, Broward Health boasts five hospitals, two trauma centers, was the county’s first statutory teaching hospital and has an ever-growing graduate medical education program. It includes more than 50 health centers and physician practices covering virtually every healthcare specialty. Broward Health never stops working toward its mission of Exceptional Care, Extraordinary Compassion and Everyday Excellence. Driven by more than 12,000 talented employees and physicians who deliver care to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, Broward Health is one of the largest employers in Broward County with an operating budget of $1.8 Billion and annually provides almost $500 Million of charity and uncompensated care. For more information about Broward Health, visit: www.BrowardHealth.org . Previous Next

POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance Teams Up with Crayola Experience for Exciting New Family Entertainment By Sharon Wagner December 19, 2024 Share Last year, South Florida was treated to the world premiere of POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance—an enchanting live holiday stage show and immersive experience at the Diplomat Hotel in Hollywood, Florida. For those lucky enough to attend, it was a magical fusion of music, circus arts, stagecraft and pure imagination, all inspired by the beloved holiday storybook by Broadway director and entertainment visionary Neil Goldberg. This year, Goldberg brought his holiday magic to Orlando, teaming up with Crayola Experience for a vibrant new adventure. As part of Crayola’s annual Colorful Christmas celebration, POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance added an extra layer of enchantment to the festivities, drawing inspiration from the storybook series, their new Holiday Television special, and the live show. With kids and grandkids in tow—ranging in age from 2 to 13—we headed to Orlando to experience the magic firsthand. When we arrived at the impressive Crayola Experience, we were greeted by a line out the door, a good sign that something special was underway. Though we hadn’t visited this attraction before, we were excited to see how POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance would blend into the Crayola world of color and creativity. From the moment we entered, it was clear this would be an unforgettable experience. Crayola Experience is a one-of-a-kind family destination, boasting over 25 creative activities across 70,000 square feet of color. The space is designed to inspire both kids and adults, encouraging exploration through art, technology, and creativity. But the integration of POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance took everything to the next level. The magic of POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance infused every moment of the experience. We were treated to a vibrant Magical Circus Adventure, blending acrobatic feats with enchanting storybook readings that captivated both children and adults. An interactive magic show mesmerized the crowd, while a parade of costumed characters from the storybook roamed the space, delighting kids with playful interactions, photo opportunities, and storytelling sessions. Everything happened multiple times throughout the day. Everywhere we looked, there were colorful jugglers, plate-spinners, strolling magicians, and performers full of personality and charm. Characters like snowmen, toy soldiers, wizards and whimsical sprites brought the book’s pages to life with stunning attention to detail in their wildly imaginative costumes and makeup. Some of these familiar performers returned from last year’s show, but the creative team behind POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance has clearly raised the bar, continuing to elevate this already magical experience. Our favorite new character was RoboClaus™, a cutting-edge 6-foot robotic Santa who wowed the crowd with his modern twist on the holiday icon. Kids (and adults) couldn’t get enough of him, lining up for a chance to take photos with this high-tech Santa. POMP proclaimed RoboClaus™ was created to help Santa grant Christmas wishes and dreams. Well, for our kids, this day was a dream come true. There were plenty of other photo opportunities too, with characters and performances throughout the venue. There seemed to be thousands of visitors, and some of the lines were long, but the characters entertained the lines which moved quickly and were well worth the wait. The kids also got to enjoy a Kidz Wigz salon, where they could dress up as their favorite POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance characters. After choosing their favorite crayon color, they personalized labels with their characters’ names and took part in coloring stations, picking from thousands of Crayola crayons to create their own artistic storybook masterpieces. I had the opportunity to chat with Neil Goldberg, who shared his excitement about the collaboration. “Crayola’s premier attraction for creativity in Orlando is a canvas for imagination, and the perfect collaboration for POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance. This colorful event immerses children and families in the joyful magic of the holiday season, entertains everyone and creates memories that will last a lifetime.” For those in South Florida, there’s still more POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance fun to be had. On Saturday, December 21, IT’SUGAR, one of the world’s largest specialty candy retailers, continues partnering with POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance to present a special holiday celebration at their Bayside Marketplace flagship store in Miami from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The free event will feature a POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance storybook reading, a live circus performance, the book's colorful characters, a chance to meet RoboClaus™, and plenty of festive photo ops and treats. For those who can’t attend, the new POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance holiday TV special is now available on YouTube, offering a 30-minute dose of their holiday magic: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ev-g9kweFZM&t=9s). Looking ahead, Goldberg revealed that POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance will continue to grow, with more partnerships, live shows, location-based entertainment, products and exciting collaborations on the horizon. It's clear that the immersive and entertaining world of POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance is just getting started—and we can’t wait to see where it goes next. To learn more, visit: www.pompsnowcirque.com < Previous News Next News >

Aventura Summer Camp 2021 Thu May 13 2021 04:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Broward County Transit Resumes Collecting Bus Fares June 1 May 20, 2021 Share Broward County Transit (BCT) will resume collecting bus fares on Tuesday, June 1, 2021. Broward County Transit (BCT) will resume collecting bus fares on Tuesday, June 1, 2021. At that time, passengers will be asked to board through the front door to pay their fares and exit through the rear doors. Passengers are also required to wear face masks and maintain a safe social distance when riding the bus. BCT suspended fares on March 24, 2020, as one of many safety measures put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. BCT will continue its policy to maintain social distancing and increase frequency on bus routes when needed. Additional enhanced safety measures include disinfecting buses nightly with extra cleaning during the day, equipping buses with ionizing air purifiers that clean the air, and installing bus operator cabin partitions throughout the entire fleet. “Safety is our top priority, and we continue to work tirelessly to protect or customers and bus operators. We thank passengers for their patience and for doing their part to keep everyone safe,” said Transportation Director Chris Walton. BCT urges customers to take advantage of the contactless mobile ticketing app, which will be available on May 24, 2021. Mobile tickets are a safe, easy and convenient way to purchase bus fare. Customers can download the Broward County Transit Mobile Ticketing app to their smartphone from Google Play or the Apple App Store, buy their ticket and scan it when boarding. Also, beginning May 24, paper bus passes can be purchased online at Broward.org/BCT or in-person at BCT terminals, County libraries and participating businesses. Customer service representatives are available to answer questions and assist riders with ticket purchases and downloading the mobile ticketing app. For more information, call the Customer Service Center at 954-357-8400 or visit Broward.org/BCT. About Broward County Transit Broward County Transit (BCT) provides safe, reliable, and economical bus transportation via fixed route, express, community shuttle and paratransit services to customers. BCT operates 46 routes within 428 square miles of Broward County and provides service to parts of Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties. < Previous News Next News >

What the Hack? Hackers Have Used the Pandemic As a Cover Against You October 14, 2021 Share “You are your own biggest weakness, but changing just a few of your behaviors can reduce the chances that your online accounts get breached” IT expert Jeff Birner If you haven’t yet had your online accounts hacked, count yourself lucky. Cybercrime is real; cyber criminals are real; and they’re proving to all of us that nothing is safe. Do you know how the companies you do business with are protecting your information? Or do you cross your fingers or pray that everything will be fine? It’s time to take matters into your own hands, suggests cybersecurity and IT expert Jeff Birner. “You are your own biggest weakness, but changing just a few of your behaviors can reduce the chances that your online accounts get breached,” he said. Here are some of Birner’s tips for protecting yourself from cyber-attacks: Use Multi-Factor Authentication Arguably the most effective thing you can do to protect your online accounts is turning on multi-factor, or two-factor, authentication for as many of your accounts as possible. The method uses a secondary piece of information—often a code generated by an app or sent via SMS—alongside a password. This secondary piece of information helps to prove it really is you trying to log in, as the codes are often accessed on the phone in your pocket. Even if you do have a password that’s easy to guess (we’ll get to that shortly), an attacker is unlikely to get access to an account with multi-factor authentication turned on unless they have your phone. Get a Password Manager It’s 2021. You shouldn’t be using “password” or “12345” for any of your passwords—even if it’s a throwaway account. All the passwords you use for your online accounts should be strong and unique. They should be long, include a mixture of different character types and not be used across multiple websites. Your Twitter password shouldn’t be the same as your online banking one; your home Wi-Fi network shouldn’t use the same credentials as your Amazon account. Password managers create strong passwords for you and store them securely. Plus, you never have to struggle to remember a forgotten password again. Learn How to Spot a Phishing Attack Quickly clicking can be your worst enemy. When a new email or text message arrives, and it includes something that can be tapped or clicked, our instinct is to click. Don’t. Hackers have used the pandemic as a cover to launch wave after wave of phishing attacks and dumb Google Drive scams. Be cautious, think before you click, and download files only from people and sources you know and trust. Update Everything Every piece of technology you use—from the Facebook app on your phone to the operating system that controls your smart lightbulb—is open to attack. Thankfully, companies are always finding new bugs and fixing them. That’s why it’s crucial you download and update the latest versions of the apps and software you’re using. Encrypt Everything Protecting your communications has never been easier. Over the last half-decade, companies handling our personal data—including the messages we send and the files we upload to the cloud—have realized that encryption can help them as well as their customers. Using encrypted services means that what you're sending is better protected against surveillance and won’t be accessible if your device gets lost or stolen. Wipe Your Digital Footprint The past can come back to haunt you. The old online accounts you no longer use and the login details that belong to them can be weaponized against you if you don’t do anything about them. Hackers frequently use details from previous data breaches to access the accounts people currently use. Reducing the amount of information that’s available about your online life can help cut your risk of being hacked. A very simple step is to regularly delete your Google search history. About Jeff Birner Cyber and IT expert Jeff Birner is a highly sought-after analyst who launched his firm in 2017 in St. Petersburg, Florida. His stellar work has helped many companies strengthen their approach to cyber security, and he also advises everyday people on ways to prevent the pitfalls of being hacked. < Previous News Next News >

27th Annual Brunch For The Animals Returns To Aventura Mall To Support Miami’s Homeless Pets Aventura Digest Mar 19, 2025 The Humane Society Of Greater Miami invites The Community To The 27th Annual Brunch For The Animals, A Dog-Friendly Fundraising Event Set To Take Place On Sunday, May 18th, 2025, From 11:30 a.m. To 2:30 p.m. At Aventura Mall’s Exclusive Event Space, LEVEL THREE VENUE. The annual event brings together animal lovers, their furry companions, and advocates of pet rescue for a fundraising brunch. Guests can enjoy brunch, participate in a silent auction, and meet adoptable pets while helping raise funds to support Miami’s homeless pets. “We are excited to once again bring the community together for Brunch for the Animals, a meaningful event that supports Miami’s homeless pets,” said Jossie Aguirre, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Greater Miami. “Every ticket purchased and every donation made directly impacts our mission, providing shelter, medical care, and loving homes for animals in need.” Animal lovers, philanthropists, and community members are encouraged to attend and make a difference in the lives of countless homeless pets at the 27th Annual Brunch for the Animals on Sunday, May 18th, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at LEVEL THREE VENUE, located at Aventura Mall – 19565 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida 33180. Guests will enjoy a delightful brunch, participate in an exciting silent auction, and meet adoptable dogs—all while raising critical funds to support Miami’s homeless pets. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome to join in on the fun. Seating is limited, so early RSVPs are highly recommended. To secure your ticket, visit: www.humanesocietymiami.org/brunchfortheanimals For sponsorship opportunities or additional event details, please contact Rosie at: rosie@humanesocietymiami.org For more information regarding LEVEL THREE VENUE, please contact Sheril at: shenney@levelthreevenue.com About The Humane Society of Greater Miami The Humane Society of Greater Miami is a limited admit, adoption guarantee facility dedicated to placing every dog and cat in our care into a loving home, and to promoting responsible pet ownership and spay/neuter programs. Adoption guarantee means that every animal that is admitted to our shelter is free from the threat of euthanasia due to time, space, or treatable medical issues. We provide shelter, food, veterinary care, and plenty of TLC while the dogs and cats wait for their permanent home, no matter how long it takes. We have been helping homeless animals in Miami-Dade County since 1936. We offer programs and services to educate, inform, and inspire people to take responsible care of their pets and treat animals with the kindness they deserve. With the support of people from across the county, we are helping to create a better community for all. We are a private, Not-For-Profit, 501 (c) (3) charitable animal welfare organization supported by our programs and services, as well as donations, private grants and fundraising events. About Aventura Mall Aventura Mall is the premier shopping destination in Miami and South Florida, and one of the top shopping centers in the U.S. Anchored by Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s, the center is highlighted by a mix of over 300 stores, from luxury fashion brands to shopper favorites, including the largest Apple store in Florida, Adidas, Alo, Anthropologie, Aritzia, BVLGARI, Burberry, Cartier, GANNI, Givenchy, Gucci, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Nike, Ralph Lauren, Saint Laurent, Valentino, and Zara. Aventura Mall also features more than 50 eateries and restaurants, including Treats Food Hall; The Aventura Farmers Market, which showcases dozens of farmers and artisans; and the experiential Arts Aventura Mall program highlighting 25+ museum-quality pieces in a range of mediums, which guests can enjoy via a self-guided ArtWalk audio tour. Visit: www.AventuraMall.com for more information. Level Three at Aventura Mall Exclusive, state-of-the-art event space located within the iconic Aventura Mall in Miami, Florida. Designed to offer a sophisticated and versatile setting for a variety of events, Level Three hosts a wide range of gatherings, from corporate functions to private parties and community celebrations. With its modern ambiance, flexible floor plan, and breathtaking views, Level Three provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion. As part of Aventura Mall, one of the largest and most dynamic retail destinations in the country, Level Three ensures an unforgettable experience for guests while also offering easy access to world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment. Louis Aguirre, WPLG Local 10 News Anchor Previous Next