Subs For Safety: Hollywood Fire Rescue Unveils New Lifesaving Equipment August 11, 2022 Share Last week, the City of Hollywood Fire Rescue and Beach Safety unveiled its newest lifesaving extrication equipment, made possible thanks to a $36,175 Grant from the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. Proceeds from purchases made at U.S. Firehouse Subs Restaurants provided the funding for this Grant Award. The tools will assist first responders by dramatically reducing the time it takes them to safely extricate victims involved in motor vehicle accidents above ground and underwater. The equipment will also give the department the capability to respond to complex incidents involving heavy trucks, as well as cut and spread ultra-hardened steels found in newer vehicles. To celebrate the receipt of the awarded equipment, City of Hollywood Fire Rescue Division Chief James Russo joined local Firehouse Subs Franchisee Ulises Lacentre in acknowledging the Grant award and demonstrating the new equipment during an In-Person Event. Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation was founded in 2005 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Firehouse Subs Founders, Chris Sorensen and Robin Sorensen, traveled to Mississippi where they fed first responders as well as survivors. As they traveled back to Florida exhausted and exhilarated, they knew we could do more and the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation was born. To date, Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has Granted over $639,000 to first responder organizations in Greater Miami-Fort Lauderdale and $10.5 Million across Florida. < Previous News Next News >

Stephen Cummings Receives Award June 8, 2021 Share Stephen Cummings receives an award from Key Club LT Governor Shana Xia from American Heritage High School for his philanthropy toward the key clubs in Broward County Stephen Cummings, has been an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Hallandale Beach since its inception, in 1994. He has served Kiwanis in many capacities and chartered the Hallandale High School Key Club in 2003, watching many young adults blossom through community service. In 2010, an award was established in his name recognizing the most philanthropic Kiwanis member in Broward County who assisted students with service projects, district convention expenses and college scholarships. In 2017, he absorbed the entire cost of chartering eight luxury buses, enabling 400 Key Club members and faculty advisors to travel at his expense to their State Convention, in Orlando. He has frequently purchased pizza, chicken wings and cheese platters for meetings, so the students enjoyed some nourishment and has purchased hundreds of club shirts for Key Club members at Hallandale High School. Cummings has watched many of his Hallandale High School Key Club members flourish, but is most proud of Past Club President, Sabrina Javellana, who, became the youngest Hallandale Beach City Commissioner in 2018, at the ripe old age of twenty and former, standout member, Noemi Lopez, who, has become a filmmaker, she is producing and directing, she has been forming her own company. It has been a great honor for Stephen, to be presented with an award with his namesake for 2020-2021, for his continued financial support of our aspiring youths, in Broward County. The Kiwanis Name The name “Kiwanis” means “we trade” or “we share our talents.” It was coined from an American Indian expression, Nunc Kee-wanis. Kiwanians are volunteers changing the world through service to children and communities. Kiwanis members help shelter the homeless, feed the hungry, mentor the disadvantaged, and care for the sick. They develop youth as leaders, build playgrounds, raise funds for pediatric research, and much more. No problem is too big or too small. Why? Because working together, members achieve what one person cannot accomplish alone. When you give a child a chance to learn, experience, dream, and succeed, great things happen! The Florida District, comprised of the more than 240 clubs and over 7,500 Kiwanians within Florida. Florida is one of the largest and most successful districts in Kiwanis International. The Hallandale Beach Kiwanis Club has been serving the community since 1994. Meetings are held at Icebox Cafe 219 NE third Street in Hallandale Beach at 12:15pm the 2nd & 4th Thursday of each month. For more information about the club or to become a member call (954) 865-5378. < Previous News Next News >

Family Fun For Everyone: At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Thu Feb 16 2023 17:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

No Place Like Home: The City of Hollywood & Broward County Help With Home Ownership Thu Sep 01 2022 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Season of Fun Awaits at Gulfstream Park Village: South Florida’s ultimate entertainment destination welcomes back its signature Headless Horseman Halloween event followed by holiday lights showcase, Symphony in Lights Wed Oct 18 2023 16:19:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Gun Violence, Homeless And Keeping Our City Clean By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper September 14, 2023 Share It is such an honor to serve as Mayor of Hallandale Beach. I have always served with the commitment and belief that I am here to help every resident and stakeholder which means being available every day no matter what. My Dad was a Public Servant. He served as the Chief Chemist for the State of New Jersey. He taught me a very important life lesson. No matter what, return every phone call. Even if it is just to confirm to the caller you received it. Let the person know you value them and receive the message. Let them know you will follow up the next day. With today’s instant technology it still holds true. Part of being successful is showing up and making sure you are listening. More importantly follow up. Over the past months there have been three issues that have been reoccurring in online chats, news and emails. Gun violence, Homeless and Right of Way maintenance. I have heard, as I am sure my colleagues have too, we are listening. These issues are not readily solved by the simple action of the City. As a matter of fact, they do take multiple individual agencies and yes community involvement, This does not mean they do not need to be addressed. All are important to the quality of life of our community. Over the past year and a half there have been far too many shootings in our City and the surrounding area. Our City has installed Shotspotter Technology within our borders. This Technology tells us that within seconds a gun was shot off. Our Police Department can respond. What is alarming is that if we correlate this with calls to Police, only a small percentage, less than 10% get reported. That means people are not reporting crime. PD is showing up and sadly there are no residents willing to stand up and report. This hinders our ability to find criminals and solve crime. More importantly, prevent the further loss of life. This fear factor is real. We get it. As a victim of an armed robbery, I personally get it. That is why we have an anonymous tip line. I requested it over 15 years ago. It is not tied to 911 nor Non-Emergency Numbers. It is a direct line to leave tips at: (954) 457-1404. As a matter of fact, I named it “1 one call 4 for 0 our 4 miles.” WE need your help! Not just to fight crime but to prevent crime. Call it and leave a message! As a City we cannot change Gun Laws. As a City we can only advocate for Common Sense Laws. Residents, parents and even children need to know if we all work together we can help save lives. The school board is also working on this issue. We are not just fighting gangs, we are fighting bullying and threats on Social Media. This new Technology has made violence even worse. They are promoting a safe way to report Cyber Bullying. Parents need to get involved with following their children’s tech activities. There is a great amount of information on the BCPS website. They have multiple ways to report safety issues. They also are having meetings to gather input on school issues. As Mayor, on behalf of the Commission I have spoken up at the Board Meetings on safety including Gun Detectors. Parents need to attend meetings or at least follow the meeting and share comments on agenda items. The meeting for our area is at Sheridan Technical School at 5400 Sheridan Street, Hollywood, Florida 33021 on Wednesday, September 27th, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. The Homeless issue is extremely complex. Our department now has a community officer working on this issue. I just had the chance to attend the US Conference of Mayors Leadership Meeting as Trustee where there was one day committed to addressing this Humanitarian Crisis. Every city large and small has reached a turning point with this issue. I do not want to oversimplify but it comes down to three silos; homeless that have had hard times and are looking for help and can handle rehousing. Drug Addicts that need treatment before they can even deal with being in housing and the extremely Mentally Ill that need Mental Hospitals then continue Treatment or Permanent Mental Hospitalization rather than being put in jails. I want to let our residents know that we will continue to work with all our county and state partners on the issue. The one message I did take away was that leaving individuals on the street is definitely more inhuman than forcing them to get help. This was not for elected officials but from individual testimony. Survivors on the streets and those helping get individuals out of camps. Our rights of way, the property between the road and private property owners, are to be maintained by the property owners. I believe that many people simply do not understand these rules. As a City, we make sure properties are clean through the Code Enforcement Process. Not all property is maintained by the City. Our roadways are City, County and State. This is where residents can help. If you see trash, report it on our City's App MyHB. The App provides us with real time complaints. Our City will continue to address the cleanup of our areas of responsibility, but this is a shared effort. The Final Budget Hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, September 26th, 2023 at 5:05 p.m. at City Hall located at 400 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. Every resident is encouraged to come out to participate or watch the meeting live. As always, please feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place. I am available at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or at: joycooper@aol.com . On my Office Number at: (954) 457-1318. On my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. You can always visit my Facebook and follow me at: Mayor Joy Cooper. < Previous News Next News >

Hurricane Season Has Begun: 1-in-4 Floridians Would Ignore Hurricane Evacuation Warnings June 16, 2022 Share The 2022 Hurricane Season officially began June 1st and runs through November 30th. Last week’s Storm should be a wake up call for all of us. According to NOAA Climate Prediction Center, the 2022 Season Outlook predicts above normal Hurricane Activity. For the 2022 Hurricane Season, NOAA is forecasting a likely range of 14 to 21 Named Storms with winds of 39 miles per hour or higher, of which 6 to 10 could become Hurricanes with winds of 74 miles per hour or higher, including 3 to 6 Major CAT 3, 4 or 5 Hurricanes with winds of 111 miles per hour or higher. NOAA provides these ranges with a 70% confidence. Regardless of how many Storms are predicted, we need to be prepared at all times for the possibility of a direct hit. Hurricane Preparedness for Condo Dwellers Living in an Apartment/Condo Community poses some unique considerations for Hurricane Preparedness. Sharing your walls and Communal Areas means some actions are your responsibilities, while others depend on your neighbors and management. The following tips will help Apartment Dwellers be prepared in case of a Storm. Storage space in Apartments is often limited and storing your supplies may be challenging. If your kitchen is small, find space in a closet, under the bed or even behind the couch. Fill bathtubs and the washer with water that can be used to flush down toilets and used for sanitation needs. Don't stand near windows during a storm and keep your curtains drawn. The National Hurricane Center advises against using tape since it can cause a false sense of security and also lead to larger, more dangerous shards of glass blowing through your Apartment. Pre-Register For Emergency Services (Broward) Register with Broward County's Vulnerable Population Registry, this is especially important because COVID-19 Infections are still on the rise. This Registry allows people who are Disabled, frail or have health issues to register in advance with their City so that Emergency Workers may plan a better response to vulnerable residents in a Recovery Effort following a Hurricane or Other Emergency. The Registry is not a guarantee of services, but it enables Emergency Workers to better respond in a Recovery Effort. Each City may use the Vulnerable Population Registry List in a different way, based on their City's Recovery Plans. For more information or to Register, Call: 3-1-1. Or: (954) 831-4000. Or Visit: https://webapps2.broward.org/VulnerableRegistry/Welcome.aspx. The Vulnerable Population Registry does not sign you up for a Special Needs Shelter or Evacuation Transportation. For Sheltering and Transportation information, Visit Special Medical Needs: https://www.broward.org/AtRisk/Pages/SpecialNeeds.aspx Or Call: (954) 831-3902. If you are dependent on Electricity for your Medical Needs, or have a Medical Condition that cannot be supported at a General Population Shelter, we recommend you Pre-Register for the Broward County Special Needs Emergency Sheltering and Transportation Program. Special Needs Shelter Applications are available At: https://www.broward.org/AtRisk/Pages/default.aspx Or to request that an Application be Mailed to you, Please Contact the Broward County Emergency Management Division At: (954) 831-3902. Pre-Register For Emergency Services (Miami-Dade) The Emergency & Evacuation Assistance Program (EEAP) provides Evacuation Support to residents who need Specialized Transportation Assistance or whose Medical Needs prevent them from Evacuating on their own. Residents with Disabilities or who need Skilled Nursing Care, Assistance with Daily Living or have Life-Saving Medical Equipment dependent on Electricity should Register with the EEAP. For more information, you can call the EEAP Hotline At: (305) 513-7700. This Program is for individuals with Functional and Access needs who live alone or with families. The Program offers: Specialized Transportation, Safe Shelter, Medical Monitoring and Wellness Checks. Residents who require Evacuation Assistance should Register for the EEAP prior to an Emergency to ensure help will be given when needed. It may also be utilized Post-Disaster to provide other Assistance. Pre-Registered residents will receive priority during an Emergency. Where To Get Local Information About A Storm Hallandale Beach - You can get Emergency Management information At: www.cohb.org/EM and You can call the City's Hotline At: (954) 457-1489. For Automated Alerts, make sure you've signed up for Robocall Alerts from the City by registering At: www.cohb.org/signup. Please make sure when you're registering that you input your address as well. Hollywood - The City of Hollywood Emergency Management supports each Department to ensure the safety of Hollywood residents and businesses during all Emergencies. If you have questions for the Department, Contact Jaime Hernandez At: (954) 921-3053. Aventura - Sign up for free Emergency Alerts and they’ll notify you about Weather Emergencies such as: Tropical Storm or Hurricane Warnings issued by the National Weather Service or any other Emergency that may require public protective actions. In the event of an Emergency, you'll get a message with details. To register, Visit: https://www.cityofaventura.com/258/CodeRED-Emergency-Notification-System Complacency or Cost A new AAA Survey reveals that a growing number of Floridians are more concerned about this year’s Hurricane Season, yet there’s still a large number of residents who do not have an Emergency Plan. High Gas Prices are beginning to factor into Floridians’ hesitation to get out of harm’s way. Two-in-five Respondents (42%) say high prices and the availability of Gas would make them less willing to Evacuate their Home, if recommended to do so. “Prices at the pump are likely to remain high throughout the summer,” said Mark Jenkins, The Spokesman Of AAA Auto Club Group. “So, if you’re worried about Evacuation costs, it may be a good idea to start setting aside some money now.” Storm Strength, Pets and Property Damage A quarter of Floridians (25%) say they would ignore Evacuation Warnings altogether. Of those who would Evacuate, three-in-five (60%) would only leave for an approaching Category 3 Hurricane or stronger. Some of the top reasons people cited for staying home are: Being unable to bring their Pets or don’t have a safe option for them (30%), Don’t know where to go (28%), in case there’s Damage to their Home/Property that I can fix (25%) and Other Financial Reasons (e.g. can’t afford a Hotel – 23%). “Preparation is key to making sure you aren’t stuck in the path of a deadly storm,” Jenkins said. “Now is the time to develop a few options for your Pets. Keep in mind there are various Pet-Friendly Hotels and Shelters. If you’re worried about Property Damage, contact an Insurance Professional now to review your Policies. Having adequate Coverage will give you the peace of mind in knowing that anything Damaged while you’re gone can be repaired or replaced.” There are some things people can do right now to prepare for the Storm Season. If you have not taken steps to prepare your Household, now is the time to make sure you have a plan and build a Disaster Supply Kit. Consumers can purchase qualifying Disaster Preparedness Tax Exempt Supplies during the 2022 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday. Passed by the Florida Legislature and signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, the Sales Tax Holiday began on Saturday, May 28th, 2022 and ends soon on Friday, June 10th, 2022. For a list of covered items, Please Visit: https://floridarevenue.com/disasterprep/Documents/2022DPposter11X17.pdf Review your Insurance Coverage Review your Homeowner’s Insurance with your Licensed Insurance Agent to determine if you have adequate Protection and remember to discuss your Deductibles. Flood Damage is not covered under your Homeowner’s Policy. “Unfortunately, many Homeowners do not realize until it’s too late that their Homeowner’s Policy does not cover Flooding,” Pintacuda said. “We encourage residents to look into a Flood Policy now. There’s a 30 day waiting period for all new Flood Insurance Policies. So if you wait until a Storm is approaching, it will be too late.” The two biggest sources of Hurricane Damage are Wind and Torrential Rain resulting in Flooding. Flooding is the number one Disaster in the United States. A quarter of Floridians (25%) are unaware that most Homeowner’s Insurance Policies do not cover Flood Damage. While 3-in-5 (61%) say they are concerned about experiencing a Flood at their Home, only 25% claim to have a Flood Insurance Policy. Every zone is a Flood Zone. Nearly 40% of all Flood Insurance Claims come from Homes which are not considered High-Risk Flood Zones. Flood losses are costly. One inch of water can cost $27,000 or more to repair. From 2015-2020, Flood Insurance Policyholders that sustained a Covered Flood Loss received an average Claim Payment of $68,000, which never has to be repaid. Federal Disaster Assistance is not compensation for your losses, it is a Low-Interest Loan. A ‘Preferred Risk’ Flood Insurance Policy can cost around a dollar a day for Coverage of $75,000 in Structural Damage and $30,000 for Damage to contents inside the Home, so it's a smart investment! Review your Auto Policy Do you have Comprehensive Coverage? Storm Damage to your car is not automatically covered by your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy. Comprehensive Coverage is not required in Florida, but would help if your vehicle is damaged by hail, is flooded, or a tree falls on it. Store Your Information Store your Insurance Policy Number and Claim Phone Number in your phone in case you need to make a Claim after the Storm. Also pack away Important Documents in a portable waterproof container. Documents could include: Birth Certificates, Social Security Cards, Insurance Policy Information and more. You should also document your belongings by walking through your home with a video camera or smartphone. Keep a record of large purchases including the cost of the item, purchase date and Model and Serial Numbers. Now is the time to start making preparations, not when a Storm approaches. Follow these simple tips and you will save yourself a lot of worry over the next six months. < Previous News Next News >

Aventura Celebrates 28 Years of Incorporation: City of Aventura Commemorates Its Annual Founders Day at Gulfstream Park By Joyce R. Forchion - LOVE Aventura November 10, 2023 Share Orchids are traditionally regarded as the gift of choice for married couples celebrating their 28th wedding anniversary. Along with the flowers’ connotation of beauty, Chinese folklore suggests that they are also symbolic of the constructs of vitality, longevity, and perfection. If these qualities personified one of South Florida’s stellar cities, Aventura would be first on the list. On Sunday, November 12th, hundreds of residents commemorated the City’s 28th year of incorporation at Gulfstream Park to accommodate attendees. Accustomed to thriving as a municipality from pioneering achievements in community building, economic development, and infrastructure innovation, neighbors were in celebration mode during the family-friendly afternoon full of live stage shows during the STAR Talent Competition, assorted snacks along Food Truck Row, pint-sized rides in Toddler Town, and other whimsical games and prizes for all ages. Recognized as one of South Florida’s quintessential locales, Aventura thrives as a neighborhood where family values, comfortable luxury, business culture, and social offerings intersect. Those who are new to town might be unfamiliar with the rich history of the City of Excellence, which is the brainchild of Turnberry Associates magnates Don Soffer and George Joshua Berlin, who conceptualized and sketched its general layout over a brief table conversation. What was once a mangrove swamp in the 1950's has transformed into one of the world’s model suburban cities. Among other notable achievements, the City birthed one of the nation’s most prolific shopping malls, which recently expanded with the inclusion of the Esplanade wing and a pedestrian bridge leading to the Brightline Station. Aventura’s rich history takes center stage when honoring its leaders who established the City’s solid foundation. Such an example took place during the annual Veterans Day ceremony at Government Center the morning of November 11th, when dignitaries and guests paid homage to men and women of valor who served in the United States Armed Forces. Year after year, the City upholds its mantle by acknowledging the contributions of those who came before us, whose legacies continue to pave the way for families to make memories within the city limits. Aventura’s metamorphosis has elevated its public profile to the world stage, branding the Miami-Dade County location as one of the most desirable residential choices for global citizens, in addition to its emergence as a destination for holiday-themed events and programs. On November 23rd, International Special Attractions will launch its super-sized Snow Carnival at Aventura Mall after the attraction premiered in Las Vegas, creating a winter wonderland theme park headlined by 350 tons of real snow. In December, the Community Recreation Center will offer a two-week Winter Camp for children interested in “edutainment-style” activities, basketball, and dance while Founders Park will be hosting a Tennis Camp. Until next year, we salute Aventura’s 28 years of progress and eagerly anticipate what’s in store for the future. LOVE, AVENTURA. A column celebrating the heart, soul and culture of our community. < Previous News Next News >

Elections Are 47 Days Away: Hallandale Beach Will Have Elections For Commission Seats 1 And 2 And Charter Amendments By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper September 22, 2022 Share Today marks 47 days until Election Day! Here in Hallandale Beach, we have Elections for Commission Seats 1 and 2 and for Charter Amendments. A committee of appointed citizens proposed the Charter Amendments. The Commission approved and supported them with a 5-0 Vote to be placed on the Ballot. Voters should support all these Amendments that improve the governance and operations of our City. I typically do not get very political in these articles, but Voters really need to understand what is at stake in our City this Election Year. I have already heard many Voters are being misled. Hallandale Beach now has a system of seats. The Commission seats are 1 – 4 and the Mayor's Seat. This year two seats are on the Ballot are: Seat 1 and 2. Vice Mayor Mike Butler is running for Re-Election in Seat 1. That is not the news. The alarming news is that Keith London is running against him. I will not call it shocking even though Mike was at one time his friend and Former Running Mate. This is the type of arrogant behavior that is typical to Keith. His past cruel behavior against colleagues, business owners and employees may not be known to all new residents. To those of us who know the real truth, there is a reason that London lost his appointed Mayor’s Seat. He lost because residents had enough! I am writing about this because we all need to not forget this horrific chapter in our City’s History. This is a call to action from Vice Mayor Mike Butler, Commission Michelle Lazarow, Commissioner Anabelle Lima-Taub and myself. It is hard to imagine that this is taking place but after years of disinformation about corruption, personal attacks against those that called him out or those burned by his reckless actions our City Commission is united in the message about the news. We are all formally and publicly denouncing his attempt to once again fleece our City and misinform Voters. It was an agonizing time for many. The residents united to Vote him out and we all need to unite once more for the wellbeing of our now vibrant Community! Obviously, I was not on the dais for a year and half and was finally vindicated. Sadly, during that period, the arrogant power-hungry London was even worse. His attacks on Commissioner Anabelle Lima-Taub were despicable. Hallandale Beach made national headlines over anal bleaching. We were slammed with costly Lawsuits that are still hanging over the heads of our taxpayers. One with a price of $5 Million Dollars. Over the past three years, our City has been moving forward without the shenanigans of years past. We have worked collectively to overcome the bad headlines. Correct a Budget that was fully mismanaged and in 2018 had the lowest reserves in the history of the City. Now we are all fully united to keep him out and protect our City. We need your help to continue the peace that has been brought to our City by empathic, caring and smart leadership. In other news, it has been brought to my attention that other misinformation is out there regarding our BSO Merger. We all can agree that Public Safety is one of the most important services and duties we perform as Elected Officials. Without Health and Safety, we do not have anything! When the City Commission Voted 3-2 on the Merger, they were put in a box due to a Pension Lawsuit and collective bargaining. It needs to be noted that the two other Unions, The International Union of Police Associations (IUPA), which is the Police, were negotiating going to FRS (Florida Retirement System) and AFSCME (American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees) already went to FRS. This change did save money all around. In my opinion, it should have and could have happened without the BSO. The BSO’s Contract was all Union and did not have to do with staffing even though the public was led to believe it. There was a report of an incident with a female Firefighter going into a house during a kitchen fire on her own. What has been left out of this story is there was another Firefighter and the Chief was on the scene. In Fire Response, there are typically multiple trucks responding. She claimed she was told to go in on her own. This is totally against protocol but after a thorough review it became a point of “she said, he said.” As the Chief said, he was behind her while the other officer was running the hose. This Fire Incident created the push to have three Personnel on a truck. The other incident that has been pointed out from what I can gather, I was not on the dais at the time, was a response to a Heart Attack by a Single Responder. I do not know if the Fire Truck Personnel only had a Certified Driver and one Paramedic. While we do not want any of these types of incidents occurring, they are outliers. There is not one single perfect Department in Broward County and human error is always possible. Even with the BSO Merger, we had a tragic Incident due to BSO Protocols. There was a call for an Asthma Attack that turned tragic due to the fact the response could not go in. Ironically, people are not sharing this story. Since I have been on the dais, I have only heard good comments and accolades for our wonderful First Responders. It was my understanding our City was to work on Certifications. I have heard debates over staffing levels for years. We have three on EMS and three on Fire only because of a SAFER Grant. This had nothing to do with the Merger. I also need to share that in a four-square mile City, we have more coverage than other cities with 3 Fire Stations housing Fire and EMS at the Beach, Main Stations and EMS on Three Islands. We still pay for all other related expenses, trucks, stations, equipment for trucks and life saving apparatuses. The other issue is training. Due to staffing, training hours were interrupted. I am not saying this is not an issue. Training is important. Currently, our Grant is over. We will be losing a position. We will still be in the BSO Contract, while spending $1.2 Million Dollars. If lost, we will go to three on a Fire Truck and two on EMS. I firmly stand with getting out of the contract and stop wasting money on upper management and focus on boots on the ground. Wishing all our friends and neighbors a Blessed Rosh Hashanah! 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 E-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org . < Previous News Next News >

South Florida’s Freedom Tax Center: Your Trusted Partner in Navigating Complex Tax Matters – We're Open for Business February 6, 2025 Share The ever-changing landscape of tax laws can be daunting for many individuals and businesses. However, there’s a trusted partner in the region that has been easing the burden of tax-related stress and ensuring accuracy and compliance for years - Freedom Tax Center. Open now to file tax returns, Freedom Tax Center encourages individuals and businesses to get started early to avoid being penalized, as well as to protect themselves against tax fraud and identity theft. With tax season quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to take action and ensure your returns are filed correctly and on time. Founded by the Abikarram family, Freedom Tax Center has solidified its position as a leader in the tax industry. Operating from Hallandale Beach, their team of highly trained professionals is known for their exceptional service and their commitment to handling personal and sensitive information with the utmost care, resulting in a stellar reputation within the community. In February, Jesus and his team will mark 32 years of service in Hallandale, contributing to Freedom Tax's combined 50 years of experience in the business. Freedom Tax Center offers a wide range of comprehensive tax services, tailored to meet the diverse needs of both individuals and businesses. At the core of their offerings is the preparation of personal and business tax returns. For individuals, they conduct a thorough assessment of their financial situation to ensure that every tax advantage is utilized, from deductions for homeownership to investments and education expenses. Their expertise shines through when dealing with complex tax situations, such as self-employment income, rental properties, and multi-state filings, all with the goal of maximizing returns and minimizing liabilities. In addition to their tax preparation services, Freedom Tax Center also provides assistance with tax planning strategies. Their team works closely with clients to develop proactive tax strategies that minimize liabilities and maximize potential refunds. By offering year-round consulting, Freedom Tax Center ensures that individuals and businesses remain compliant and financially prepared for tax season. Businesses, whether they are small startups or established corporations, find indispensable support in Freedom Tax Center’s services. They meticulously address business-specific tax considerations, including corporate structure, payroll taxes, and industry-specific deductions, all while staying up-to-date with the latest tax regulations and providing strategic advice to align with the company’s financial goals. Additionally, they assist new businesses with entity selection and registration, helping entrepreneurs make informed decisions that benefit them in the long run. In today’s increasingly popular realms of cryptocurrency and cannabis taxation, Freedom Tax Center demonstrates a forward-thinking approach. They offer specialized services to individuals and businesses engaged in these sectors, helping navigate the complex tax implications associated with cryptocurrency transactions and the evolving legal landscape of the cannabis industry. For cryptocurrency enthusiasts, from miners to traders and digital asset holders, Freedom Tax Center ensures accurate reporting and compliance with IRS guidelines. Similarly, for businesses in the burgeoning field of cannabis and CBD products, their expert guidance on federal and state tax regulations helps establish a solid financial foundation in this new and challenging market. Another cornerstone of Freedom Tax Center’s services is their assistance with ITIN (Individual Tax Identification Number) applications. This service is particularly vital for individuals without a Social Security number, such as non-residents or foreign investors, who have tax reporting requirements in the United States. Their expertise in this area ensures that clients navigate the ITIN process smoothly, fulfilling their tax obligations without unnecessary complications. Complementing these services, Freedom Tax Center’s sister company, Freedom Tax Resolution, steps in to assist clients facing disputes with the IRS. From dealing with tax liens and bank garnishments to negotiating reasonable installment agreements and offers in compromise, their team provides robust support and advocacy. This comprehensive approach to tax resolution is tailored to each client’s unique situation, aiming to achieve the most favorable outcome while reducing stress and uncertainty. What sets Freedom Tax Resolution apart is not just their expertise, but also their commitment to keeping clients informed and involved throughout the resolution process. They understand that dealing with the IRS can be overwhelming and strive to make the experience as transparent and stress-free as possible by providing consistent updates and clear explanations, ensuring that clients are never in the dark about the status of their case. Unlike many tax firms that operate seasonally, Freedom Tax Center provides year-round service, emphasizing their commitment to accessibility and ongoing support for their clients. They also provide bookkeeping and accounting services, ensuring businesses remain financially organized throughout the year. Their bookkeeping solutions help business owners maintain accurate records, track expenses, and prepare for tax season with confidence. In a world where tax laws are constantly evolving, Freedom Tax Center remains a trusted partner for both individuals and businesses. Their wide range of services, expertise in specialized areas, and commitment to client service make them an ideal choice for anyone seeking peace of mind and professionalism in managing their tax affairs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the Freedom Tax Center website or contact them at: (954) 454-2080. Their office is located at 600 West Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Suite#: 4, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. Find event photos: https://issuu.com/suntimesnewspaper/docs/sun_times_issue_02_06_25?fr=sMzE1NzgyMzYxMzU https://issuu.com/suntimesnewspaper/docs/sun_times_issue_02_06_25/6?fr=sNGE4MjgyMzYxMzc < Previous News Next News >

Water Damage Experts: Call 1st Priority today to solve your mold problems November 4, 2021 Share If your home has been damaged by water from a leaking pipe, intruding water from all the current rains or mold damage from moisture over time. How are you going to address these problems in your home? A Restora-tion Company such as 1st Priority Restoration is usually the first company to call following significant damage to a home from floods, water damage, sewage backup and other major water events. The job of a restoration company is to clean up the mess and to preserve the home, protect the home and its contents so that further damage will not occur. Flood damage can be found in any geographical area, regardless of elevation. The causes of flooding can range from natural disasters, burst pipes, leaking pipes, rain storms or sewer lines that are backing up. Even in a condo, you could have a water leak in your wall, under a toilet or behind a kitchen cabinet creating mold that can cause damage to your property and your health. 1st Priority Restoration can find the source of the leak, fix it, restore your property and work directly with your insurance. Regardless of the cause, restoration professionals are called upon to repair water damage, mold damage and restore flooded properties. The water damage restoration process is highly regulated in order to ensure that properties damaged by flood or sewer events, can be effectively restored to a safe space for a homeowner to remain safe during the cleanup. You need a company such as 1st Priority Restoration who you can trust to do the job correctly. The process is simple, when 1st Priority Restoration arrives, they will thoroughly walk through your home and discuss the areas that need to be cleaned & restored to their original condition. Your insurance company adjuster or claim representative may recommend what and how your home should be cleaned, but in the end, it is your decision to make. In the past year, we have all heard the word “Mitiga-tion” more times than we can count, but with water damage, that is exactly what needs to be done. Water damage restoration does not stop at restoring your real estate back to proper functioning. The professionals at 1st Priority will inspect the underlying causes that have caused the water damage in the first place and make sure there won’t be a reoccurrence. They will repair all of the damaged structures and replace the materials to make your property safe, for years to come. If your property has been exposed to water damage, you may have to do water mitigation. Strict actions are required in water mitigation, such as: removal of damaged materials such as drywall and flooring. Molds and mildew that have accumulated in areas in your property will be disinfected and deodorized to restore a healthy environment. Further cleaning and deodorizing should be done to make sure that your real estate is back in tip-top shape. Water damage mitigation should happen immediately after flooding or water buildup. Take action immediately, because letting your property sit in water can cause further damages and expenses. Materials soaking in water collect microbes and spread water-borne diseases. Furniture, wood flooring and walls will crack, sag and collect fungi after prolonged exposure to moisture. If your property is particularly old, it may be time to replace materials such as pipes to prevent a reoccurrence of water damage. If pipes are behind walls, it may require more extensive repairs. The water mitigation process will depend on how long your property has been exposed to water. Air humidifiers and drying equipment must be turned on around the clock in areas with severe water damage. Mold spores are especially dangerous to health and thorough cleaning and disinfecting should be done as part of the water damage mitigation. It is advisable to get the temperature, humidity and moisture of your property tested to see if it has been restored to normal standards, 1st Priority professionals can handle the entire process. After 1st Priority Restor-ation evaluates the work and equipment needed to clean your home, they will provide you QUICKLY with an estimate or contract/services. LEAK DETECTION: One tiny water leak can create huge problems in a home or business. An undetected water pipe leak will not only dramatically increase your utility bills, but it can also lead to even more expensive water damage and mold. If you’ve had higher than average water bills, constantly have to refill your pool or hear running water, it’s time to call the leak detection specialists at 1st Priority Restoration! Is water pipe leak detection possible if the pipes are behind a wall? Yes, using the newest state-of-the-art detection tools, highly trained technicians are able to locate water pipe leaks that are hidden behind walls. They can even provide water plumbing leak detection within concrete slab foundations. Will insurance cover the cost of plumbing leak detection services? That all depends on your home's insurance plan. In many situations, when there is a need for water damage restoration, many insurance companies will cover the related costs. 1st Priority Restoration representatives can work directly with your homeowners insurance to verify the need for the plumbing leak detection service, cause of the problem and the repairs that will be required to remedy the situation. NEVER FOOL AROUND WITH MOLD & MILDEW: When it comes to mold and mildew, we cannot take those potential hazards lightly. A mold problem can cause you to experience dizziness, anxiety, depression and even hallucinations. If you have been experiencing a diminished attention span or problems with your memory, it might be a good idea to have your home inspected for black mold by a mold remediation crew. For people sensitive to mold, inhaling or touching mold spores can cause allergic reactions, including sneezing, runny nose, red eyes and skin rashes. People with serious mold allergies may have more severe reactions, including shortness of breath. At 1st Priority Restora-tion, this is what they do 365 days a year, nobody knows how to prevent potential dangers like they do. By dialing: 1 (800) 617-1112 – you can save financially and your health as well! MOLD AND YOUR HOME: Mold is found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the outside air can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, bags and pets, which can be carried indoors. Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, pipes or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric and upholstery. With all of the rain and storms we have been having these past months, you can see a pattern of mold growth that will last. From leaks, flooding and driving rain, mold growth is a certainty in South Florida. If you are concerned that you might have a mold or mildew problem, it is best to call the professionals. Your health is your most important asset, so just like you go see a doctor for a test, your home needs testing as well. VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION: There are some important ways that we can prevent the spread of mold and what you can do to get rid of it. Keep an eye out for hidden leaks: Wet spots on your ceiling, the baseboards or on the floor are a telltale sign of a leaky pipe or roof. Your home's pipes are behind drywall, which can leave a small leak unnoticed. Mold can grow behind those walls and filter into the air through ducts or pipes. At 1st Priority, they can come in and assess the situation before it gets worse. Did you know that many air conditioner systems/ducts are susceptible to mold growth? They often trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for spores. Bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms create a lot of excess heat and humidity, especially here in south Florida – whether it is from a shower, stove or even a dryer, all of these areas should be well ventilated. Education is key to anything – when our health is at stake – knowing that mold spores can lay dormant for years after they are produced and could begin growing again at any time, it is extremely important to know. Because of this, regular cleanings and having 1st Priority Restoration to depend on, will certainly make our lives much easier. Ever wonder why you or your children wake up coughing and sneezing on a regular basis? The CDC may have the answer. According to the CDC, in 2004 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found that there was sufficient evidence to link indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, coughing, sneezing and wheezing in otherwise healthy people and in individuals susceptible with compromised immune conditions. Mold or mold spores may cause asthma attacks in people who have asthma and are allergic to mold. Even in some nonallergic individuals, mold can cause sym-ptoms of irritation in the eyes, skin and airways. For example, the "black mold" Stachybotrys, along with some other types of mold, produce toxins known as mycotoxins that can cause irritation of the skin and airways in susceptible individuals. Some-times, people may develop se-vere reactions to mold exposure, but cleaning and sanitizing by professionals you can trust, can help mitigate MOST OF the health issues. EXPERIENCE IS EVERYTHING: With decades in the business, 1st Priority Restoration is a reputable company with over 20 employees that are licensed and insured. They have been doing all types of cleaning, sanitizing, leak/mold detection and water damage restoration for more than a decade. "We use the most efficient cleaning and water removal equipment to make sure that our customers are satisfied with the job we do for them. We try to use nontoxic (Green) safe chemicals for all mildew treatments. In all of the years that we have been helping our customers with water damage, they have always been pleased with the work that we do and we have never received a single complaint!” YEAR ROUND SERVICE: If you have lived in south Florida for any period of time, you already know that the weather is ever changing, for that reason, the rainy season can happen at any time. It doesn’t have to be a tropical system to cause flooding and everything that goes along with it, a leak or burst pipe can happen at any time of year, 1st Priority Restoration is available to help get your home back to a healthy environment for you and your family. What continues to separate them from anyone else is that they can take care of all of your water damage problems - as well as conducting leak and mold detections, working with your insurance company and your adjuster. By calling 1st Priority Restoration, you are getting a business that understands it all and is ready to spring into immediate action 12 months a year. From ceiling repair, drywall replacement, structural damage, roof leaks, floor repair, furniture cleaning, mold removal and treatments, they have it all covered. CUSTOMERS ARE ALWAYS SATISFIED: "If a customer calls and is not completely satisfied with any of the work, the crew will return promptly to your property and will meet your expectations. our customers are 100% satisfied." Proud member of the Better Business Bureau. $25 OFF MOLD TESTING! 1st Priority Restoration 1-800-617-1112 1-800-996-7919 Closed Saturday & Jewish Holidays. < Previous News Next News >

North Miami Mayor Responds to New Florida Education Standard August 15, 2023 Share As a Florida educator, the new standards for Black History Education in Florida are a disappointing step backward in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the curriculum. By reducing the emphasis on the struggles and contributions of Black people throughout history, these standards undermine the progress toward a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of our nation's past. Florida's decision to downplay the significance of events such as the Civil Rights Movement and prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Toussaint Louverture, Marcus Garvey, and Malcolm X is a disservice to students. By glossing over these critical historical moments, the state perpetuates a sanitized and whitewashed version of the past, ultimately failing to educate students on the Systemic Racism and Discrimination African Americans face. Moreover, this move appears to be a deliberate attempt to marginalize the experiences and accomplishments of Black Americans in favor of a distorted narrative that downplays the impact of Racial Inequality and the ongoing struggle for Social Justice. This perpetuates historical inaccuracies and hinders efforts to foster empathy, understanding, and unity among diverse communities. Education should be a powerful tool to combat Racism and promote inclusivity. Unfortunately, Florida's new standards do the opposite, reinforcing a narrow historical perspective that fails to address the roots of Racial Disparities and the ongoing fight for equality. As a society, we should strive for an inclusive curriculum that highlights the diverse experiences and achievements of all Americans, ensuring that the next generation is better equipped. < Previous News Next News >