A Warning From The Inspector General: Offers To Increase Your Social Security Benefits Are from Criminals Thu Mar 23 2023 16:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hallandale Beach Chamber Of Commerce’s State Of The City Address Part 3 By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper Sep 10, 2026 Last Week Was Part 2 Of My State Of The City Address Hosted By The Hallandale Beach Chamber Of Commerce. This Week In Part 3, I Share Complete Streets — Safer, More Walkable Neighborhoods. We continue to move ahead with our paving program. I am frequently asked, "Mayor, when is my street going to be paved?" Sometimes the answer depends on what is underneath that street. If Major Water, Sewer, or Drainage Infrastructure is scheduled for replacement, it doesn't make sense to spend taxpayer dollars paving a beautiful new roadway only to tear it apart shortly afterward. The paving program has not only been successful but is well ahead of schedule. Two exciting initiatives moving forward are called quick builds. The projects along Atlantic Shores Boulevard and Diana Drive have been in the works for a while and those costs continued to escalate. Rather than waiting we are going to implement quick improvements. Quick building is a solution to deliver much-needed improvements. It does not mean complete reconstruction. It allows us to utilize striping, parking improvements, pedestrian treatments, and other enhancements to improve safety and beautify an area while larger Infrastructure projects are being planned. Construction costs, as I stated before, remain a major challenge. One project along Northwest 8th Avenue was originally projected at approximately $8 Million. Today, estimates have climbed significantly upwards to $14 Million. Rather than abandoning the project, we are looking at completing it in phases. Northwest 8th Avenue is part of our educational corridor, connecting Hallandale High School with our neighborhoods and continuing toward Gulfstream Academy. Sidewalks, pedestrian safety, lighting, and connectivity are essential to creating a truly livable and walkable community. More importantly, we all want our children to be safe. The future of mobility is: It’s time to share the road. Transportation is changing rapidly. Electric bicycles are becoming increasingly common. Scooters are everywhere. I recently visited one of our schools and saw firsthand that many children are no longer riding bicycles to school — they're riding scooters. That creates new safety challenges. Hallandale Beach has been among the first Broward cities to establish e-bike and scooter regulations. We are also revisiting a partnership to launch a bike-sharing program. Our message moving forward must be: Share the Road. Drive Safely. The roads of the future may look quite different from the one we know today. I recently attended Commotion at Miami Dade College to learn more about autonomous vehicles, eVTOLS, and drones. These technologies are no longer science fiction. Autonomous vehicles are already operating in American cities. Delivery drones are being deployed in parts of the country. Companies such as Wing are already demonstrating how groceries, pharmacy items, and other products can be delivered directly to consumers. Imagine ordering something from a local business and having it delivered without putting another delivery vehicle into traffic. That has enormous implications for transportation. I have been working alongside Staff and business partners in hopes to create a pilot here in Hallandale Beach Boulevard. Between wing Walmart and DoorDash. Will be able to work with the government and the FAA on these new technologies. We are exploring autonomous minibuses. Imagine a circulator traveling along Hallandale Beach Boulevard, connecting the western portion of our city all the way to the beach. Technology is not simply coming; it is being deployed through pilots and private partnerships. The question is whether government and regulatory agencies can keep pace with it. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit me on my Facebook page at! MayorJoyCooperHB. Like! Follow! And share! Previous Next

Rejuvenate Your Mind And Body: Aventura's Complimentary Classes At Founders Park August 15, 2023 Share If you're in search of a way to unwind, stretch your body and enhance your Overall Well-Being, look no further than the City of Aventura's Complimentary Yoga Classes at Founders Park. The classes continue to be very popular and are held every Friday at 9:00 a.m., these classes offer a fantastic opportunity to practice Yoga in a beautiful outdoor setting. Nestled in the heart of Aventura, Founders Park is a true gem. Its picturesque landscape, tranquil environment and meticulously maintained grounds create the perfect backdrop for outdoor Yoga. Regardless of whether you're a seasoned Yogi or a beginner, this serene oasis will make you feel right at home. Open to individuals of all skill levels, the Complimentary Yoga Classes at Founders Park cater to everyone's needs. Whether you're an experienced yogi seeking to deepen your practice or a newcomer looking for a gentle introduction to Yoga, these classes are thoughtfully designed to meet your requirements. Led by a certified instructor, each session is customized to address the participants' unique needs. The instructor offers modifications and adjustments to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and safe throughout the practice. You will learn proper alignment techniques, effective breathing exercises and valuable skills for quieting the mind through Meditation. One of the distinct advantages of practicing Yoga outdoors is the deep connection to nature. The fresh air, warm sunlight and natural surroundings can amplify your practice and leave you feeling revitalized. At Founders Park, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery, vibrant flowers and the soothing sounds of nature, adding an extra touch of tranquility to your Yoga experience. The benefits of Yoga extend far beyond the physical environment. Numerous studies have shown that Yoga can significantly reduce Stress levels, improve flexibility, enhance strength and balance, and even boost Immune Function. By participating in these Complimentary Yoga Classes, you not only prioritize your Personal Well-Being but also have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate a sense of community. The City of Aventura's dedication to offering Complimentary Yoga Classes at Founders Park speaks volumes about its commitment to promoting health and wellness among its residents. By providing free access to these classes, the city has made it easier for everyone to enjoy the numerous advantages of Yoga, regardless of their circumstances. So, if you're seeking a way to improve your Physical and Mental Well-Being while forging connections with others in your community, consider joining the City of Aventura's Complimentary Yoga Classes at Founders Park. With its breathtaking setting, certified instructors and welcoming ambiance, this is an opportunity you won't want to miss. The advantages of Yoga are vast and far-reaching. Don't pass up the chance to connect with others, revitalize your mind, body and revel in the natural beauty of Founders Park. Embrace this opportunity to embark on a transformative journey and experience the myriad benefits that Yoga has to offer. Registration Registration is required to attend and must be completed prior to attending the class. Participants must provide valid proof of Aventura residency to access the park on the day of class. Registration can be completed exclusively online only at the City's Online Registration System (ORS) with a valid account at: www.cityofaventura.com/ors Supplies Students must bring their own Yoga mats, a small towel and water for convenience. Please plan to be in class for approximately one hour. For more information call: (305) 466-0183. < Previous News Next News >

A Slow Burn Awaits: Five Musicals Will Be Presented At The Broward Center For The Performing Arts Thu Feb 15 2024 17:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The NAR Lawsuit Settlement: An Introduction For Sellers & Buyers By Christopher Carter - Real Estate Broker Associate August 29, 2024 Share Late last year, multiple lawsuits were brought against the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and several large national real estate brokerages. In the NAR's own words from a September 2023 article on their website: "The lawsuits claim that NAR rules violate antitrust laws and inflate the fees paid to buyer’s agents by requiring a listing agent to compensate a buyer’s agent for listing a property on the MLS." This refers to the widespread practice of cooperative commission in which sellers of residential real estate pay a negotiated total commission to listing brokers who offer the seller's property for sale to the public. Listing brokers then share part of that commission with the broker and licensee who bring the eventual buyer to a deal. It has been alleged that within co-op commission, some individual licensees and their brokers encouraged "standard" commission rates and other practices which reduced consumer choice. Here is a direct link to the NAR's webpage in which they publicly address the settlement: https://www.nar.realtor/the-facts It has been suggested that listing brokers and their licensees were not giving sellers a choice of how much commission they would be paying to the buyer's broker, saying that the cooperative commission and a specific % of the sale price was standard or usual. There are even anecdotal accounts of listing brokers telling sellers that unless they were offering at least X% buyer-side commission, very few Sales Associates would waste their time showing the property to prospective buyers. (Yes, really) Quite a few buyers have long suspected that since sellers were told they had to pay both sides' commission, residential asking prices were inflated to include those costs. Maybe so, maybe not. We will have to wait and see what effect (if any) these practice changes have on real estate asking prices in different parts of the country. Up until August 17, 2024, MLS (Multiple Listing Service) listings included the co-op commission rate or amount offered to licensees who may want to bring a potential buyer into the deal. Many (most?) MLS platforms are owned by the local Board of Realtors® (NAR affiliates), so the MLS became the mechanism by which offers of shared compensation were communicated to other brokers and their licensed Sales Associates. Even though sellers have historically paid the entire commission to both sellers' and buyers' brokers under the NAR's cooperative commission arrangement, it is important to understand that NAR has never set commission rates, commission splits between brokers, or the business relationships between brokers/licensees and sellers. These details have always been separately negotiated between a local real estate broker and a seller. So how did the NAR end up in a lawsuit over member broker and licensee behavior and business practices? Possibly because the majority of US residential real estate brokers and offices are members of the NAR and require their individual Sales Associate licensees to be members. For background on State real estate licensees and NAR membership, take a few minutes to look through this article from May 2024: https://thefloridarealestateblog.com/f/in-florida-are-realtors%C2%AE-real-estate-agents? The opinion has been presented that the NAR passively enabled individual members to engage in questionable behavior and business practices. While the NAR may not have actively promoted members' questionable business practices, neither did they try to prevent some of those practices from occurring through increased member training and more focused professional standards. State and local Boards of Realtors®, along with member real estate offices, brokers, and licensees agree to follow NAR's published rules, procedures, and standards which include the cooperative commission arrangement. However, local interpretation and application of rules, standards, and ethical behavior can vary widely between brokerage offices and the individual licensees attached to them. The NAR is a national organization, yet the practice of offering real estate services to consumers (sellers and buyers) is always hyper-local. The alleged violations that led to landmark lawsuits and subsequent real estate practice changes were committed by individual licensees interacting with individual sellers and buyers. Now that we have some background, what has changed? Two of the main changes intended to increase transparency to consumers and promote seller / buyer choice when using an NAR-affiliated broker, licensee, and MLS include: • Any mention of compensation (broker/licensee cooperative commission) is expressly prohibited in MLS listings and/or any platform drawing information from the MLS (syndicated sites). Previously, this information was required when entering a property's details into the local MLS. • Licensees must now have buyers sign Buyer Broker Agreements before providing real estate services to them. BBAs must include the terms, services, and compensation to which broker and buyer have agreed. Sellers can still pay a commission to buyer-side licensees if they would like, though the offer cannot be shown anywhere on an NAR-affiliated MLS platform. Seller-paid commission to the buyer broker can be accomplished in a few ways: • In signed Listing Agreements, sellers can agree to pay buyer broker compensation, the amount offered, or not to pay any at all. Keep in mind that this decision is made well before the property has been offered for sale to the public. • Listing brokers can share part of their negotiated commission from the seller with the buyer-side broker (this is traditional cooperative commission). Remember - no mention of compensation in the property's MLS listing. Offers and amounts of shared commission must occur through separate communication between brokers and licensees outside the MLS. • In the written offer that becomes the sales contract once accepted, buyers can ask sellers to pay some compensation to their buyer broker as part of closing. This can be done through a co-op commission or a seller payment at closing directly to the buyer-side broker. As we have discussed in previous articles, payment for real estate services goes to the office's broker who then distributes it to the individual licensee who interacted with the seller or buyer. So far, much of this sounds very similar to the old way real estate commissions were handled, except for how and where offers of buyer-side commission are made, right? The second major change is the requirement that buyer-side licensees must have potential buyers sign Buyer Broker Agreements before any real estate services are provided. In some areas of the US, BBAs have been used for some time. In others it is a recent development and new business practice with which NAR members must comply. In keeping with NAR settlement-related changes, all BBAs must include the compensation amount or % buyers agree to pay the licensees who will be showing them properties and handling some of the transaction details after an offer is accepted. As with Listing Agreements and sellers, Buyer Broker Agreements are signed (and commission amounts established) well before an offer is made or a sales contract exists. In BBAs, buyer-side licensees decide how much commission they want to receive if/when their buyer purchases a property. If no seller-paid commission is offered to the buyer broker (or sellers cannot be convinced to pay some when asked), the buyer is responsible for paying the entire amount shown in the signed BBA. According to the new rules, buyer-side brokers cannot receive more commission than is pre-determined in the BBA. Until the recent practice changes, most residential buyers were not directly responsible for paying their real estate brokers commission. New language in required Buyer Broker Agreements changes that. Remember - sellers can offer (or not offer) buyer-side commission when entering into a Listing Agreement with a local real estate broker, before the property is available for purchase. On the other side, buyers agree to pay their brokers a predetermined commission if/when they buy a property through them, before a purchase offer or sales contract exists. One of the most confusing aspects of all this is that neither one knows what the other side's written compensation agreement contains. Sellers may be asked to pay part (or all) of a commission negotiated and agreed to by other parties. (I am not making this up.) Buyer-side brokers can only receive the commission amount or % agreed to in the BBA. If there is no seller-paid cooperative commission offered to the buyer-side, then the buyer has to pay what is shown in the BBA. If a seller is not offering the full amount agreed to in the BBA, the buyer has to make up the difference. That's probably enough of an introduction for now. There is a lot for consumers to absorb and apply to both hypothetical and real-world situations. Looks like I will be writing a few more articles on this topic trying to help principals to a residential real estate deal better understand how to navigate the changes while protecting their interests. Read today's article a couple of times for better understanding, this can be very confusing. The new practices will take some time to work efficiently, and there is a distinct possibility that may never happen. Though these are the new rules that MLS participants must follow until further notice. BTW - There have already been multiple suggestions by some local licensees on how to sidestep the new settlement-related practices through some eyebrow-raising maneuvers. More on them in a future article. For now, the best advice I can give you is: Don't sign anything you don't fully understand. When interviewing real estate licensees to handle your side of an upcoming transaction, have her or him completely explain (with examples) your choices, rights, and responsibilities under the new broker compensation rules. 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 >

Free Admission All Summer: Museum Of Discovery And Science Thanks Active Military Personnel And Their Families Fri May 19 2023 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Booogie By The Beach - A Spooktacular Halloween Tradition In Sunny Isles Beach October 24, 2024 Share As it dips a few degrees, the excitement for Halloween begins to stir in Sunny Isles Beach. This year, the community is gearing up for a delightful fright fest with "Booogie By The Beach," a two-night event that promises fun, thrills, and plenty of ghostly good times. Scheduled for Friday, October 25th, and Saturday, October 26th, this annual celebration will transform Pelican Community Park into a Halloween wonderland. Booogie By The Beach is not just for the faint of heart. Whether you’re looking to embrace the eerie spirit of Halloween or prefer a more light-hearted experience, this event has something for everyone. From thrilling rides and exciting games to creative crafts and a bustling costume contest, attendees are in for a treat. To participate, guests must pre-purchase wristbands, ensuring they’re ready to join in on the festivities. Available for just $5 for Sunny Isles Beach Residents, these wristbands provide access to all activities, including the highly anticipated haunted house—though a separate ticket is required for entry into that spine-chilling attraction. Wristband Details: Don’t Miss Out! To make the most of Booogie By The Beach, residents are encouraged to purchase wristbands in advance. Pre-purchased wristbands must be obtained before Friday, October 25th, at 4:00 p.m. for the Discounted Resident Rate of $5. For those who procrastinate, prices jump to $25 at the gate, underscoring the importance of early planning. Non-Residents can also join the fun, with wristbands priced at $50 regardless of when they are purchased. Children aged two and under are free but must still have a wristband for entry. Wristbands can be picked up at various locations throughout the city, including Pelican Community Park, the Government Center, and the Gateway Center, making it convenient for everyone to secure their passes before the event. To purchase a wristband, visit: https://sibflchs.net/CourseActivities.aspx?id=1015&cat=7 Haunted House And Costume Contest: Frights Await! One of the highlights of Booogie By The Beach is the Haunted House, which this year has a new location: the Pelican Community Park Gymnasium. Tickets for the Haunted House are available for $2 Per Person, Cash ONLY, and can be purchased at the gym door. With thrills and chills around every corner, this attraction is bound to be a favorite among attendees looking for a good scare. Adding to the excitement, the event will also feature a costume contest. Participants can showcase their creativity in categories ranging from Tots, 5 years and younger to Adults, 18+ years. Each night, winners will be selected for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each age group, along with special prizes for categories such as Overall Scariest, Most Original, and Best Group. Contest entries must be submitted by 9:00 p.m., with winners announced shortly after, making it an exhilarating highlight of the evening. Food, Fun, And Festivities Await Booogie By The Beach wouldn’t be complete without an array of delicious food and beverages available for purchase. Families can enjoy tasty treats while they explore the various activities, ensuring that everyone stays fueled for a night of fun. For those worried about parking, Sunny Isles Beach provides ample options along Atlantic Boulevard and North Bay Road. Additionally, the SIBShuttle offers FREE transportation within city limits, making it easy to reach the event without the hassle of finding a parking spot. Road Closures And Event Details To facilitate the festivities, certain roads will be closed. 181st Drive will be closed from 9:00 a.m. on Friday, October 25th, reopening after the event on Saturday night, October 26th, while 182nd Drive will close at 3:30 p.m. on the same day, resuming access on Sunday morning, October 27th. The Pelican Community Park office will also close to the public on Friday, with regular hours resuming the following week. Booogie By The Beach: When: Friday, October 25th and Saturday, October 26th from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Where: Pelican Community Park, 18115 North Bay Road, Sunny Isles Beach, Florida 33160 Make sure to secure your wristbands early, gather your friends and family and get ready for a night filled with laughter, thrills and perhaps a few friendly frights. Don’t miss out on this community event that has become a beloved tradition in Sunny Isles Beach. Come dressed in your best costume, explore the haunted house and make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, Booogie By The Beach is the place to be this Halloween! < Previous News Next News >

Ride & Play With Onboard Family Fun: Explore Special Offers From Popular Miami Venues April 11, 2024 Share Tri-Rail, South Florida's premier commuter rail system, is set to dazzle residents and visitors alike with the return of its much-anticipated Annual Event, "Ride & Play," on Saturday, April 27th. This celebration promises a day filled with adventure, excitement, and exploration as participants embark on a journey through the heart of Downtown Miami, courtesy of Tri-Rail's newly expanded service to MiamiCentral Station. With an array of attractions, shopping havens, and dining hotspots awaiting discovery, "Ride & Play" presents an unparalleled opportunity to experience the dynamic energy of South Florida's urban landscape. David Dech, the Executive Director of SFRTA/Tri-Rail, expresses his enthusiasm for the event, stating, "Tri-Rail’s ‘Ride & Play’ is another invitation for people to come out and experience our improved service and expansion into MiamiCentral Station." With a warm welcome extended to all, Tri-Rail invites passengers to indulge in a day of leisurely travel aboard the train, accompanied by the captivating sights and sounds of Downtown Miami. Offering weekend fares at a mere $5 for unlimited travel throughout the day, Tri-Rail ensures that accessibility and affordability are paramount, allowing everyone to partake in the festivities. Central to the "Ride & Play" experience are the onboard activities that promise entertainment for passengers of all ages. As southbound trains P669 and P671 set off on their journey, attendees will be treated to a whimsical spectacle featuring costumed characters, balloon artists, and magicians, adding a touch of enchantment to the travel experience. Beyond the train's confines, the adventure continues with exclusive offers from Downtown Miami partners, redeemable simply by presenting a valid Tri-Rail ticket or EASY Card. Among the enticing offerings awaiting "Ride & Play" participants are discounts and complimentary treats from esteemed establishments such as HistoryMiami Museum, Julia and Henry’s, and Starbucks. History enthusiasts can avail themselves of a $2 discount on General Admission to HistoryMiami Museum, while culinary aficionados can delight in a complimentary beer at Boxelder for adults aged 21 and above, or savor a 10% discount at Puffles Hong Kong for younger patrons. For a refreshing interlude, Starbucks extends a generous gesture with a complimentary tall iced or hot regular coffee, ensuring that passengers remain refreshed and energized throughout their urban odyssey. Tri-Rail's extensive network of 19 conveniently located stations across South Florida serves as the gateway to the "Ride & Play" adventure, facilitating seamless travel for attendees from various locales. With weekend fares priced at a nominal $5 for a round-trip journey, and children under 5 enjoying complimentary rides, Tri-Rail reaffirms its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, fostering an environment where everyone can partake in the festivities. Beyond the excitement of "Ride & Play," Tri-Rail stands as a cornerstone of South Florida's Regional Transportation Infrastructure, offering reliable train services every day of the year. Whether commuting to work, attending school, accessing major airports, or exploring popular destinations, Tri-Rail serves as a vital link connecting communities and facilitating seamless travel experiences for residents and visitors alike. With its commitment to providing exceptional service and fostering memorable experiences, Tri-Rail continues to redefine commuter rail travel in South Florida, inviting passengers to embark on unforgettable journeys of discovery and delight. For those eager to embark on the "Ride & Play" adventure or seeking further information on train schedules and services, Tri-Rail extends a warm invitation to visit their official website at: www.tri-rail.com or contact their hotline at: 1 (800) TRI-RAIL - 1 (800) 874-7245. < Previous News Next News >

"Potholes Are Not Partisan" Please Do Your Part - As Every Single Vote Will Count By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper November 3, 2022 Share It’s been an unusual couple of weeks here in Hallandale Beach. We have our Local Elections taking place and while the current Commission has been very vocal about what we don’t want, we do hope that the electors of our City understand that the future is in your hands. If you are like me, you probably can’t wait until next Wednesday. But please do your part as every single vote will count. I hope you have already had the chance to Vote early. Early Voting is still taking place at our Cultural Center right behind City Call on Southeast 3rd Street and Federal Highway until Sunday. You will also be able to drop off your Ballot. If you wait until Tuesday to Vote, please make sure you know where your Polling place is. In years past, we used to have 15 locations but now we only have three. There are three now in the City. One off of Parkview Drive in the Three Islands area at the Clubhouse of Towers of Ocean View, the Community Cultural Center and at Foster Park at the 600 block. It seems that 6 years ago, our Elections and Political Climate brought out the worst in society. The Attack on Nancy Pelosi’s husband with a hammer wielding maniac intended for her sheds light on how bad it has truly gotten. Then the former President Trump's son joking about it is over the top. Kanye West’s disgusting Antisemitic Rhetoric about Jewish people set me over the top. I typically do not get in this fray as a Mayor in a Non-Partisan Seat but not talking out about this hatred is almost as bad as condoning it. We cannot all agree on every topic. There are good and bad policies and people on both sides of the Isle. Republican, Democrat or Non-Partisan, we all need to stand up against these Extremists and Extreme Views. They are crippling our country. This Tuesday, I’m sure those of us that traversed throughout the City realize that traffic was pretty heavy and diverted off of both Federal Highway and Pembroke Road due to the visit of President Biden. As of the writing of this article, I am hoping that Tuesday went well and that there were no protests or worse incidents. I received a call on Friday from the White House after evaluating many locations for President Biden’s Policy Presentation that we were one of the top choices. They loved our Facilities at OB Johnson Park and The Hepburn Center. As you can imagine, we were actually very proud of our Community and accomplishments. You can imagine the pride I felt as your Mayor, the feeling was fleeting. I realized the fast hard work we would need to perform to ensure his trip to our City was safe. Our City Manager, our Chief Police Department and Parks Department were all hands-on deck working alongside the Secret Service. The President was coming to South Florida for many reasons. Obviously, the Election is important but to discuss the work he has done over the past year on Infrastructure. This topic is just as important if not even more important for our cities, state and country. Our City has been one of the prime examples of how to do things right and having shovel ready projects to leverage these programs. I know many people have clouded Partisan Political ideas when it comes to these issues but after being in office for more than 20 years it is an amazing accomplishment that President Biden has moved forward with Infrastructure. I have served under multiple Presidents: President Clinton, President Bush, President Obama, President Trump and now finally, President Biden. This President finally passed significant Legislation to invest in the future of America and American cities. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so cities like Hallandale Beach can Reinvest in our Infrastructure when it comes to Water, Sewer and Wastewater. In addition, there will be investments in broadband technologies, roadways, bridges, green infrastructure and the power grid hardening. In Hallandale Beach, we know so well that hardening our facilities and addressing Sea Level Rise is paramount. I still find it hard to believe there are those that are still deniers of climate. They need to come to our Intracoastal Water during The King Tide Season. While the President, I am sure will speak on these Policy Issues, there are additional Investments in Schools and Healthcare. It is amazing that for the first time the cost of medicine is being addressed. The cost reduction In Insulin alone has impacted millions of lives across our country. Some of us are Republicans and some are Democrats. There is one thing I always share, ”potholes are not Partisan.” Infrastructure is Non-Partisan and this President didn’t just talk the talk, walk the walk and get it done. The conversation about Infrastructure couldn’t be timelier as we are poised to make Millions and Millions of Dollars of Investments in Infrastructure. Combined with our Taxpayer Dollars these State and Federal Resources are already being put to work. These Investments are critical for our future. Many of us know that we have had over 500+ Water Main Breaks. This topic has been brought up during the elections. While our Staff has been Mobile and Agile Fixing and Repairing many of our Valves and Pipes the time of Band Aid Fixes that have been taking place in the past years is ending. The end of the month we will be Mobilizing Construction on Lane Boulevard to replace our Main Sewer Line. On Three Islands, they will begin a Replacement Project for Water Mains. With our Commission, now that we are on the same page have approved Projects that have been sitting on the shelf for over 5 years plus, your Commission is not just talking the talk, but walking the walk. Get out and Vote, so we can continue our hard work. As always, I am available for your questions, concerns and ideas to help make our City a better place. Please feel free to reach out at my office: (954) 457-1318. On my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or email at: jcooper@cohb.org . < Previous News Next News >

Knowing The Signs Of Stroke: If You See Certain Signs You Must Act F.A.S.T. Thu Jul 04 2024 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

William “Bill” Julian: He Will Leave Behind A Stellar Record Of Public Service By Stephen Cummings September 2, 2021 Share Bill proudly served as a City Commissioner and Vice Mayor for twelve years, bringing forth many agenda items and contributing toward the positive growth in Hallandale Beach. One of Bill’s favorite service projects, was the annual Kiwanis Christmas in July Fundraiser, benefitting all of the children, living in shelters, in Broward County. Bill would transport hot dogs, rolls, bottled water and chips in his truck, to the BB&T Center, for the event and place all of the items, on a palette jack and delivering them, to the concession area. The City Of Hallandale Beach, recently lost one of its most venerable residents, with the passing of William “Bill” Julian. Bill proudly served as a City Commissioner and Vice Mayor for twelve years, bringing forth many agenda items, contributing toward the positive growth, in Hallandale Beach. He will leave behind a stellar record of public service, including: Membership in The Kiwanis Club Of Hallandale Beach, The Italian American Club, The American Legion Post 310 and as a public servant, to the residents who voted him into office. After graduating from South Broward High School in 1970, Bill served two tours of duty, in the United States Air Force, before assisting his father, with racing thoroughbred horses, in South Florida and across the country. Bill will be remembered, for his affable personality and indefatigable energy, volunteering and raising funds, for local charities. As an active Kiwanis Member, for over twenty years, Bill exhibited a style of leadership, that others could emulate and always, conquering obstacles, without complaints. Bill raised tens of thousands of dollars, benefitting The Kiwanis Club Of Hallandale Beach, The Hallandale High School Key Club and The Hallandale Police Athletic and Activities League, through his Annual Pasta Dinner Fundraiser. He solicited donations from local merchants, gathered raffle prizes and received much of the food, complimentary from local restaurants, while the other Kiwanis Members, rode his shirttails. The event became so popular, that we not only filled The Hallandale Beach Cultural Center to capacity, but set up tables for patrons, in the side rooms. Bill could develop a simple idea, into a profitable fundraiser, by organizing the largest Cuban Sandwich and selling tickets to the event, complimented by music and prizes, covered by radio and television stations, as well as, the print media with all of the proceeds, going to charity. When Hurricane Wilma devastated South Florida in 2005, Bill could be seen handing out bags of sand, to the community and joined a convoy, of first responders from Hallandale Beach, transporting needed supplies to Mississippi and New Orleans, after Hurricane Katrina. One of my fondest memories with Bill, was taking deserving children shopping at Christmas Time, at Walmart for, The Annual Shop With A Cop Event. Police Officers and volunteers, would escort children, who were lucky enough to receive a gift card, entitling them to purchase video games or clothing. One year, Bill chaperoned a family of three children, who all wanted bicycles, but the gift card limit, was insufficient to cover the cost. Bill dipped into his pocket and made up the difference, including, buying a safety helmet, for each child. When young athletes from our local PAL Program were short on funds, to travel to national tournaments, Bill arranged a carwash, ensuring their participation. Julian was a long-time fan of car racing and proudly showcased, his shiny red 1986 Corvette, in local car shows and rode a Harley Davidson Motorcycle, for many years. Another one of my favorite memories that Bill seldom shared, was that he was employed at the iconic Jaxson’s Ice Shop in Dania Beach, while being a high school student, earning $1 per hour, but relished the penalty for making a sundae incorrectly, requiring him to devour it. The countless anecdotes about Bill Julian will always be shared by his friends, but he will long be remembered, as one who was compassionate, kind and relentlessly focused on the mission, without complaining. Bill overcame many health issues the past four years, including: Dialysis, A Stroke, A Heart Attack, Stents and even losing both legs, to Diabetes, but he never expressed any vitriol or lashed out, in a vituperative manner. Hallandale Beach lost a true gentleman and a great role model and public servant. Rest In Peace, Bill Julian, you personify being a true American! Stephen Cummings, is a Founding Member, of The Kiwanis Club Of Hallandale Beach and a past, Kiwanis LT. Governor. < Previous News Next News >

Registration Underway For Kids & Adults - For Spring Classes At Broward Center For The Performing Arts January 29, 2025 Share For more than a decade, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts has been educating, entertaining and energizing the community with an impressive lineup of classes for all ages and skill levels. Registration is now underway for spring classes. While several classes are already filled, there are still classes open for enrollment in all age groups. Voted Favorite Arts Program by South Florida Family Magazine from 2018 through 2024, the Broward Center’s Performing Arts Programs allow participants to learn something new, try something different and explore their creative side from a talented team of theater professionals. With many classes ending with showcases and performances at the Broward Center, these skills-building and performance classes in singing, dancing, acting and improv are designed to encourage artistic expression, develop skills in all areas of the performing arts and help students build self-confidence in a fun and supportive environment. Among the classes that have openings for students from Kindergarten through High School are: Dramatic Play: Oh, The Places You’ll Go, is an introductory acting class for Kindergarteners. Themed around popular children’s books, this class is a fun and creative opportunity for kids to act out exciting adventures through the world of popular tales. Through role-playing and dramatic play, kids explore new locations, partake in new adventures and build characters as they learn about story structure while growing their vocabulary, self-esteem, creativity and problem-solving skills. Let’s Explore A Show! is a class designed for young performers in grades 1-3. This unique theater experience introduces students to the captivating journey of bringing a show to life, from auditions to final bows. Team-taught by a professional vocal instructor and a professional choreographer, this performance class allows young students to explore the basics of acting, singing and dancing while experiencing the process of auditions, rehearsals and putting on scenes and songs from the show ‘Could You Hug A Cactus?’ A script and basic costume is included with the class fee. Intro to Musical Theater is offered in age-appropriate classes for grades K-2 and 3-5 as each explores the dynamic world of musical theater to develop the basics of singing, dancing and acting using songs and choreography from a wide range of popular Broadway musicals in a supportive environment. Additionally, students learn stage directions, basic dance steps, terminology and also engage in healthy vocal production techniques. Family and friends are invited to an open class at the end of the semester and two sessions of this class are recommended. Students in grades 3-5 take their musical theater skills to the next level in Sing! Act! Dance! This exciting, team-taught class, led by a professional music director and choreographer, is perfect for those who are ready to build on what they've learned in Intro to Musical Theater, and helps young performers master singing, dancing and acting within the context of a Broadway scene. Through engaging vocal warm-ups, choreography sequences and character-building exercises, students develop strong, healthy singing voices, sharpen their dance technique and hone their acting skills. By combining all three elements, students gain the confidence and technical ability needed to shine, creating a powerful stage presence in every performance. Two semesters of Intro to Musical Theater (or similar class) are recommended as a prerequisite. Students in grades 4-6 explore the basics of acting and improv through fun and dynamic Theater Games. This engaging and interactive class is designed for all levels and focuses on building foundational skills such as character development, quick thinking and collaboration. Through a variety of creative exercises, students learn how to express themselves confidently on stage while working as part of an ensemble. Acting & Improv is available for students in grades 6-8 and explores the “fun”damentals of acting and improv skills. Students also explore how to use their bodies, voices and minds to create characters and imaginary circumstances. Through interactive warm-ups and skills-building activities, students develop improv and acting techniques as they build confidence and stretch their imagination. All levels are welcome. Available for students in grades 6-12, Broadway Dance Skills is the exploration of traditional and contemporary Broadway dance that include elements of Ballet, Jazz and Modern Dance. This is the perfect class for students who want to improve their dance foundation and focus on steps and routines found in musical theater dance. Students will refine skills for auditions and performances. This intermediate/advanced-level class hones students’ core technique while introducing a variety of movement styles. Previous dance and/or musical theater experience recommended. Principles of acting are explored in Teen Acting, a fun and supportive class created specifically for students in grades 9-12. Actors learn to “dig deep” in this foundational class, exploring basic acting techniques, analyzing scripts and developing full-bodied characters from the inside out using monologues and scenes taken from contemporary plays. Warm-ups, theater games and in-class performances help students grow in self-confidence, public speaking and creativity. Family and friends are invited to a showcase at the end of the semester. All Abilities classes are also open for enrollment and provide interactive and engaging arts experiences in a supportive and welcoming environment for people with Physical and Developmental Disabilities. The Broward Center’s teaching artists lead a fun dance and singing experience for the whole family. Parents and siblings are welcome to stay and participate. Complimentary parking is included, and complimentary beverages and cookies are provided to encourage socialization among participants. The spring All Abilities class schedule features dance on February 16th and March 2nd, Singing on April 27th and June 8th with two age groups available per class. All Abilities classes are made possible through the generous support of the Taft Foundation. For more details, please visit: www.browardcenter.org/education/programs/classes/sensory-inclusive-programs In addition to these classes, the Broward Center and The Performance Project School of the Arts announce the return of Summer Theater Camp 2025. Two sessions are available at Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale, at Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in Aventura and at the Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center at Nova Southeastern University. For additional information and to register online, visit: www.browardcenter.org/camp For complete class information and registration, visit: www.browardcenter.org/classes - By Email at: registrar@browardcenter.org . Or call: (954) 468-2689. For classes requiring auditions, visit: www.browardcenter.org/auditions The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.browardcenter.org - Like us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter - And at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @BrowardCenter. Subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter - And join the conversation with: #BrowardCenter. The Broward Center 2024/2025 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. For more information, visit: www.browardcenter.org < Previous News Next News >