Hallandale Beach Parking Program: Residents Are Still Concerned How It Will Impact Them By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper November 4, 2021 Share I have received some questions about our parking program. It has been discussed many times over the years and was adopted by the commission. It started last month and will not be enforced by our parking enforcement team through the Police Department. There were requests to have residents that live on 3rd street be able to apply for an annual parking pass. This was not recommended by staff due to the fact this is a commercial area and many of the units already have two spots. I was not at the last meeting or I would have brought the issue up. The main issue is that we truly do not want residents storing their cars on the street. This may change but it will be up to the commission to do so. Below is an article I wrote on the topic. Please save the date, on Tuesday, November 16th 2021 at 12:00 p.m. via ZOOM, I will be hosting a Town Hall Meeting to discuss the 40 Year Inspections and to introduce our new Building Official Shellie Jackson. She will be reviewing our new permitting system and programs, for further info, check out my Facebook Page. Over the past year our City Commission had directed staff to develop a comprehensive citywide parking program. Over the past two months we have hired parking enforcement officers. We also have equipped them with electric vehicles. They have been going around the City and issuing tickets for both illegally parked or unpaid parked cars at our metered locations. This past meeting the Staff parking committee brought forward recommendations on a plan. It included analysis of existing on street parking throughout the City. They recommended two types of parking rates: premium and regular. The residual rates were not changed but on-street parking now will be charged and a monthly rate of $30 per month for residential. The main reasons for enforcement are threefold and public safety is paramount. We need to enforce no parking zones, blocked crosswalks and hydrants. We also need to enforce parking and storage of privately owned commercial vehicles. Maintenance also needs to be provided for on public spaces and roadways. Lastly reimbursement for planning, zoning and enforcement costs for the parking itself. Currently we have a standard parking rate of $1.00 per hour and a premium parking rate of $2.50. The residential beach parking is $300.00 per year of which only 3 permits have been issued. There are no overnight parking passes and sadly there has been limited enforcement. Other surrounding cities have parking programs with varying rates. Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Pompano, Hollywood, Surfside and Dania Beach all have parking fees that range from $1.75 to $3.00 with residential passes available. During the season and on special events, the rates are a bit higher. Staff has developed two tiers of parking: premium nonresidential at a rate of $4.00 and a standard parking rate at $2.50. Residential rates will not change and remain at the standard rate of $1.00 and the $2.50 holiday rate. Holiday flat rate is $20.00. Premium parking was proposed for 4 locations: South Beach lot, North Beach lot, Diana Drive, The Fashion Art And Design District (FADD) on First avenue and on Northeast 3rd Street. During our meeting it was suggested that FADD be set as Standard until all of the construction on the new lot is completed and that the stores have had a chance to expand. Diana Drive will remain due to the fact that we have issues with commercial overnight parking generated by the surrounding hotels. Please note that there will be a residential pass which equates to $1.00 a day for $30.00. There will be five zones, Zone 1 is Diana Drive and Golden Isles Drive, Zone 2 is Three Islands Boulevard, Zone 3 is Atlantic Shores Boulevard and 14th Avenue, Zone 4 is around Peter Bluesten Park and Zone 5 is the Northwest around the new proposed Development on Dixie Highway and East of OB Johnson Park. It also needs to be noted that we are looking to expand parking on Three Islands Boulevard and Atlantic Shores Boulevard. When the Diplomat is reconstructed, there will be a public lot that I requested and was incorporated as part of the development agreement. I have already received two constituent questions on this proposal. The Parking Program was passed 4-0 by the City Commission and an ordinance will be coming forward. We know this is new and we are surely expecting push back. It is a change and I responded to the second question which was an email to explain in my opinion the logic in supporting this proposal. The resident was in general complaining about new taxes and comparing us to the States of California and New York. As I stated before we already had parking fees. What has changed is a new non-resident's fee. What is changing is where people are parking for free, where there will be parking charges and the added resident pass rate. I explained to the City governments that they must provide services to our constituents while balancing a budget under the restraints of the limited availability of resources. We are in the business of providing: Water, Wastewater, Stormwater, Police, Fire, EMS, Trash Removal, Parks, Maintaining Roadways, providing Code Enforcement, Building Services and an array of other services. Our choice to provide on-street parking and the ability for residents to utilize our City assets is a service that needs to be managed and the management of our assets costs money. We are trying to add parking spots. In addition, enforce parking where people are storing their work vehicles, recreational vehicles, simply parking their cars and renting out their own personal parking spots for revenue. Condominiums that were built years ago without parking spaces or with one parking space are not paying a thing to utilize city property. This is a reality in our community and to many others. Individuals living in condos know that they bought the condo with one parking spot. In my humble opinion, it is not fair that these residents are utilizing City property, but are not having to pay for its upkeep. One would argue that property taxes should be paying for everything and that we should not have fees. Also, when we charge fees, it makes it more difficult typically for those on tight budgets. The reality is that our costs just like every other business go up and we can only charge up to 8% percent millage by law. Millage rates are capped by the state. In addition, Save Our Homes and other exemptions that reduce the amount of taxes that are collected, however, this structure does not generate enough to pay for everything that we must provide. Please be assured that as a resident myself I am very sensitive to taxes and fees that we must pay within our community. Those combined taxes and fees for services run approximately 22%. That is low comparatively speaking to any other communities. We will continue to work on ways to balance our budget and utilize our City resources for the benefit of all individuals. While we are working to implement this new program, it should be noted that residential parking fees will be approximately $30 a day. I hope that this sheds some light on the rationale of the direction our City is going in. We are stewards of our City's assets. People in our City, State and Nation need to understand that the quality of life, the amenities and services cities provide around our country cost money. Therefore, so many people want to come to our country and enjoy living in our wonderful nation. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City, a better place, on my phone/text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can e-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit my Facebook Page: MayorJoyCooper. Like It! Friend It! Share It! < Previous News Next News >

Annual Water Line Flushing Program Scheduled: Water Remains Safe During this Required Process August 19th - September 22nd August 8, 2024 Share The City of Hollywood Department of Public Utilities will begin its Annual Breakpoint Chlorination, AKA Free Chlorination, System Flushing Program on August 19th, 2024. The Free Chlorination portion of this program will end on September 22nd, 2024. Water Distribution System Line Flushing may continue across the city for an additional two weeks to achieve optimal system maintenance through October 3rd, 2024. The Annual Flushing Program changes the water disinfection type temporarily and uses High Water Volume Pressure to rid the water distribution pipes of accumulated sediments. Flushing is accomplished by Utility Staff opening hydrants systematically and may temporarily cause cloudy or discolored water. The water should settle and clear within a few hours after the pipes have been flushed. The cloudiness comes from sediments in the pipes and is not harmful or hazardous. Flushing typically takes place in the evening hours between approximately 8:00 p.m. and midnight when the water demand is low. During the water line flushing period, the Water Treatment Plant will temporarily change its method of disinfection from chloramines to free chlorination. Residents may notice a change in the taste and odor of the water during this time, but the water remains safe to drink. PLEASE NOTE: The city will discontinue Free Chlorination as of September 22nd. Owners and managers of businesses with Fish and Shellfish Holding Tanks and users of Kidney Dialysis Machines are advised that regular methods for testing and removing Free Chlorine will not be effective during the remainder of the flushing period. It will be necessary to test and adjust for Chloramines after September 22nd. For questions please call: (954) 967-4230. Option#: 2 or the Water Treatment Plant at: (954) 967-4230. Ask for Luis Montoya, Public Utilities Manager, or Jorge Marin, Water Treatment Plant Superintendent. < Previous News Next News >

Music and Comedy: Are King This May At The Parker May 5, 2022 Share Hannah Gadsby, Garrison Keillor and Doktor Kaboom bring the laughs to The Parker this May as Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Tommy Emmanuel, Madeleine Peyroux and Sophie B. Hawkins rock the house while audiences in the Lillian S. Wells Hall relive the best of rock with One Night of Queen Performed by Gary Mullen and The Works, The British: They Came, They Saw, They Conquered and Leonid & Friends. The Smart Stage Matinee Series, generously underwritten by JM Family Enterprises, Inc., concludes at The Parker with Doktor Kaboom: Look Out! Science is Coming! on Thursday, May 5th, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. The original Doktor Kaboom takes his audience on an educational tour of the modern scientific method, using humor and comedy while demonstrating spectacular applications of the physical sciences. The creation of Actor/Comedian David Epley, Doktor Kaboom is a captivating character who creatively blends theater arts with the wonders of scientific exploration in this interactive one-man science variety show. The performance is recommended for grades 4-8 and supports lessons in science, math and theater. Each Smart Stage Matinee ticket purchase includes access to a pre-show workshop video and a standard-aligned study guide. Tickets are priced at $8.48 with $3 lap seats available for infants 12 months old or younger. Groups of 10 or more may purchase tickets for $7 each by E-mailing to: groups@BrowardCenter.org . Or submitting a Group Sales Request Form. Madeleine Peyroux performs her “Careless Love Forever World Tour” with a special guest Sophie B. Hawkins on Friday, May 6th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. Much like songbird Edith Piaf, Peyroux spent her teenage years busking the busy streets of Paris. Thirty years later, she is the proud Curator of nine beguiling Albums and an Accomplished Performer with sold-out Worldwide Tours under her belt. Her atmospheric version of Serge Gainsborough's “La Javanaise” was used in the Soundtrack of Oscar Winner The Shape of Water and her countless accolades include the Coveted BBC International Artist Of The Year Honor. For Hawkins, the last three decades have brought multiple awards, sold out concerts, film and TV appearances, performances with some of the best known names in the business, a documentary feature, a critically-lauded Tour-De-Force Performance as Janis Joplin in the nationally-touring Play Room 105 and Albums including Whaler, which featured the record-breaking longest-running single in Billboard Adult Contemporary chart history, “As I Lay Me Down.” Tickets are $27-$57. Together for over 25 years, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy performs Wednesday, May 11th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. Celebrating and revitalizing Jazz and Swing Music, the band has appeared in concert venues across the world, sold millions of records and had their music appear in hundreds of Movies and Television Shows. Famously named after an autograph by Blues Legend Albert Collins, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has enjoyed sold-out Concerts from the Hollywood Bowl to Lincoln Center, appearances with many of the country's finest symphony orchestras and television appearances ranging from Dancing with the Stars to Super Bowl XXXIII. Tickets are $28-$58. Back by popular demand, One Night of Queen Performed by Gary Mullen and The Works performs Thursday, May 12th, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. Recreating the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of Queen and its Flamboyant Frontman Freddie Mercury, this amazing concert showcases Rock Royalty's greatest hits with amazing authenticity. This complete two-hour Queen Concert features such hits as: "Bohemian Rhapsody," "Killer Queen," "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" and "We Are the Champions." This performance is generously underwritten by Mary and Dean Middleton and The Harry T. Mangurian, Jr. Foundation. Tickets are $48 - $63. The Broward Center and AEG Presents a Concert with Tommy Emmanuel and Special Guest Gareth Pearson on Friday, May 13th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. With six strings, ten fingers and a whole lot of tricks, this world-renowned Virtuosic Guitarist creates an orchestra of sound as he explores the bounds of what a single instrument can do. From playing down-and-dirty Blues to Classic Americana, this Australian performer can make his guitar roar, coo, hiss and sing while playing solo as a virtual one-man band. Emmanuel is one of the few people ever named a Certified Guitar Player by his Idol and Music Icon, Chet Atkins. Referred to as “The Welsh Tornado,” Pearson is one of the most exciting acoustic musicians touring today as he combines fingerstyle pyrotechnics with explosive lead runs. Tickets are $29.50-$59.50 and additional VIP Packages are offered. On Saturday, May 14th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. The Parker audiences will experience The British Invasion: They Came, They Sang, They Conquered. Featuring an all-live band with huge projection period photos along with original film footage, the show celebrates British music that dominated the charts and the airwaves in the early 1960’s with bands such as: The Rolling Stones, Dave Clark 5, The Animals, The Kinks, Dusty Springfield, Manfred Mann, The Searchers, Gerry & The Pacemakers, The Zombies, Freddie & The Dreamers and Herman's Hermits. From the Producers of The Simon & Garfunkel Story, the Concert showcases the music and how it impacted Art, Fashion and Literature, changing the very essence of Pop Culture and redirecting History. Tickets are $38-$63. Leonid & Friends perform on Tuesday, May 17th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. In just a few short years, the 11-Piece Miracle Band from Moscow has blown the minds of legions of fans with their uncanny ability to capture the spirit, musicality and fire of the American Supergroup, Chicago replicating the band's complex arrangements amazingly note for note. They became an internet phenomenon with over one million followers hooked by the group's 20 spot-on versions of beloved hits by Chicago that have received over 40 million views worldwide. Tickets for this Concert presented by the Broward Center and AEG Presents are $37.50-$67.50 with $147.50 VIP Tickets which include a meet and greet. Keillor & Company is an evening of stand-up, storytelling, audience songs and poetry starring Garrison Keillor, featuring Pianist Dan Chouinard and Vocalist Prudence Johnson on Tuesday, May 24th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. There are sung sonnets, limericks, musical jokes and the thread that runs through it is the beauty of growing old. There is the News from Lake Wobegon, a town booming with new entrepreneurs, makers of artisanal firewood and gourmet meatloaf, breeders of composting worms and dogs trained to do childcare. But some things endure, such as the formation of the Living Flag on Main Street with citizens in tight formation wearing red, white or blue caps and Mr. Keillor among them, standing close to old neighbors, Myrtle Krebsbach ("Truckstop") and Julie Christensen ("Bruno, The Fishing Dog") and Clint Bunsen. The evening includes an A Cappella Sing-Along of Patriotic Songs, Pop Standards and Hymns ending with the National Anthem. This performance is not appropriate for children under 12 years. Tickets are $35-$69.50. Also in May at the Parker Playhouse are Brazilian Nites Presents Melim (Sunday, May 8th, 2022) and South Florida Legends Presents Bee Gees Now (Friday, May 20th, 2022). Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Parker. Buy Tickets On-line At: https://www.parkerplayhouse.com/ And At: https://www.ticketmaster.com/ By Phone At: (954) 462-0222; In person at The Parker Box Office and the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Parker, located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304, which is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. The Performance Season at The Parker is supported by The Broward Performing Arts Foundation. < Previous News Next News >

SPARK Hollywood & The Hollywood West Concert Series By City of Hollywood Apr 2, 2026 Have A Business Idea You’re Ready To Take Further? The SPARK Tank Pitch Competition Is Back For Its 10th Year, Continuing Its Mission To Help Local Entrepreneurs Bring Their Ideas To Life. Since 2017, SPARK Hollywood has supported more than 130 entrepreneurs, awarding over $41,000 in cash and in-kind prizes while connecting participants with the tools, resources and guidance needed to move their ventures forward. The program offers a platform to sharpen your pitch, gain expert feedback and tap into the broader South Florida business network. Hosted by the City of Hollywood and the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, this Shark Tank-style competition brings together local investors, business leaders and innovators for an evening of live pitches and real opportunities. Why Apply? This is your chance to present your idea to a panel of experienced judges who understand what it takes to launch and grow a business. Beyond the competition, participants benefit from exposure, mentorship and connections that can make a lasting impact. Save the Date: Even if you’re not competing, the event is open to the public and promises a high-energy evening showcasing Hollywood’s entrepreneurial talent. Event Details: Thursday, May 28th, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Hollywood Beach Golf Club at 1945 Polk Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020 Stay Connected: www.sparkhollywoodfl.com Apply Today: Applications are open through Saturday, April 11th, 2026. If you’ve been thinking about turning your idea into something more, this is a great place to start. Hollywood West Concert Series: La Colombianisima The Hollywood West Concert Series: La Colombianisima promises an inviting evening of live music, culture, and community connection on Saturday, April 4th, 2026 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Held at the Boulevard Heights Community Center and Amphitheater, this free outdoor concert offers residents and visitors a chance to unwind under the stars while enjoying the vibrant sounds of La Colombianisima. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and pack a picnic basket to create a comfortable, personalized concert experience. For those who prefer to travel light, food will also be available for purchase on-site, adding to the relaxed, festival-like atmosphere. The event emphasizes sustainability, as the venue is strictly plastic - and foam-free, so guests should remember to bring reusable containers and utensils to support environmentally friendly practices. With free parking available, accessibility is convenient for families, friends, and music lovers of all ages. The combination of live entertainment, open-air ambiance, and thoughtful community guidelines makes this concert a perfect way to spend a spring evening. Whether you're there for the music, the social atmosphere, or simply to enjoy a peaceful night outdoors, the Hollywood West Concert Series offers a memorable and enriching experience that highlights both cultural appreciation and community spirit. Details: Hollywood West Concert Series: La Colombianisima Saturday, April 4th, 2026 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Boulevard Heights Community Center and Amphitheater, 6770 Garfield Street, Hollywood, Florida 33024 Bring a lawn chair, pack a picnic basket & enjoy this free concert under the stars. Food available for purchase. Previous Next

500 FREE Microchips Available: Should Your Pet Become Lost, This Could Be The Difference Thu Jun 30 2022 04:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Leave Your Weekend Plans To Us: Explore Hallandale Beach With Ride-Sharing Discount Codes July 26, 2023 Share Are you tired of spending your weekends stressing about transportation logistics? Do you want to explore exciting destinations worry-free, without the hassle of driving and parking? Look no further! Hallandale Beach has got you covered with their exclusive ride-sharing discount codes. So sit back, relax, and let us be your chauffeur as we take you on a thrilling journey through Gulfstream Park, District 8, and Atlantic Village. Start your weekend adventure at Gulfstream Park, the ultimate destination for entertainment, shopping, and dining. Located in the heart of Hallandale Beach, Gulfstream Park offers a unique blend of horse racing, casino gaming, and vibrant nightlife. With the Hallandale Beach's Ride-Sharing Discount Codes, you can effortlessly reach Gulfstream Park without worrying about parking. The venue is known for its World-Class Horse Racing, so why not try your luck and place a bet? Feel the adrenaline rush as you cheer for your favorite horse, experiencing the thrill of the race firsthand. Afterward, head over to the vibrant casino for some gaming action. Test your luck at the Slot Machines, try your hand at Poker, or indulge in a game of Blackjack. Gulfstream Park offers an exhilarating casino experience that will keep you entertained for hours. Once you've worked up an appetite, explore the dining options available at Gulfstream Park. From gourmet restaurants to casual eateries, there's something to satisfy every craving. Enjoy a delectable meal while taking in the ambiance of this lively entertainment complex. Next on our itinerary is District 8, a hidden gem in Hallandale Beach that promises a delightful fusion of Food, Art and Culture. Thanks to the Hallandale Beach Ride-Sharing Discount Codes, you can immerse yourself in this vibrant district without any transportation worries. District 8 is a haven for food enthusiasts, boasting an array of International Cuisines that will tantalize your taste buds. From Sushi to Mexican Street Food, from Mediterranean Delights to Classic American Fare, this culinary hub offers a diverse range of flavors to satisfy even the most discerning palate. After indulging in a satisfying meal, explore the Art Scene in District 8. The district is home to numerous Galleries and Art Studios, showcasing the works of talented local artists. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, intricate designs, and thought-provoking installations as you wander through the creative spaces. To cap off your weekend getaway, head to Atlantic Village, a premier shopping and lifestyle destination in Hallandale Beach. With the Hallandale Beach's Ride-Sharing Discount Codes, you can embark on a stress-free shopping spree and enjoy the ultimate retail therapy experience. Atlantic Village boasts an impressive selection of stores, ranging from high-end fashion brands to trendy boutiques. Whether you're looking for designer apparel, unique accessories, or the latest tech gadgets, you'll find it all in this shopping paradise. Take a break from shopping and treat yourself to a relaxing Spa Session or a Rejuvenating Massage at one of the Wellness Centers in Atlantic Village. Unwind, recharge, and pamper yourself, knowing that your transportation needs are taken care of. How to Redeem the Ride-Sharing Discount Codes Hallandale Beach is offering Ride-Sharing Discount Codes on a first-come, first-serve basis. To avail yourself of these fantastic discounts, you have two options: Lyft: For the Lyft Discount Voucher during your booking, use the Code: MYHBEACH. Uber: For the Uber Discount Voucher during your booking, use the Code: rkq66td6A5D. Please note that the Discount Codes are subject to availability, so make sure to secure yours as soon as possible. Use these links and codes to get your voucher for two rides up to $25 each to and from District 8, Atlantic Village or Gulfstream Park. Say goodbye to parking hassles, traffic congestion, and the stress of driving. Whether you're exploring Gulfstream Park, District 8, or Atlantic Village, you can relax and enjoy your weekend to the fullest, knowing that transportation is just a few taps away. So, let someone else be your chauffeur as you embark on a worry-free journey through Hallandale Beach's most exciting destinations. Use the provided codes and get ready for an unforgettable weekend experience. Embrace the convenience, embrace the fun, and let's take an adventure like no other! < Previous News Next News >

The 100 Deadliest Days Have Begun Tue Jun 08 2021 17:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Night Of Enchantment: The Nutcracker Gala By Arts Ballet Theatre Of Florida Fri Nov 10 2023 17:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

We Want To Hear From You! Hollywood Marina Master Plan Underway September 9, 2021 Share Take an active role in your community, visit: www.PlanHollywoodFLMarina.com The City Of Hollywood, has begun developing, A Marina Master Plan and they need to hear from you. The Plan will serve as a Comprehensive Guide, for future In-Water and Land-Side, Capital Improvement and Investment Projects. The Plan will address, Public Launching Sites, Dry Slip Parking, Wet Slip Dockage, Competitive Docking Feeds, ADA Accessibility Enhancements, Traffic, Public Safety Concerns, The Public Right-Of-Way and an Unified Shoreline. A critical component for the success of the Plan is active collaboration between the City, Residents, Marine Customers and Key Stakeholders. Public participation is key to helping the project team understand the challenges, explore the opportunities and decide together, on the best actionable Plan, to move forward. All are encouraged to visit the Hollywood Marina Master Plan's website: www.PlanHollywoodFLMarina.com . There you can learn more about the Plan and submit your ideas, to help form the Plan. The web-site will be updated throughout the planning process, with information on upcoming virtual public meetings, survey opportunities and proposed concepts. There’s also an opportunity to subscribe to e-blasts to be notified of Project and Plan Updates, during key milestones in the planning process. Take an active role in your community, visit: www.PlanHollywoodFLMarina.com and stay up-to-date today. < Previous News Next News >

Don’t Be Distracted: Circus Politics Are Intended To Distract Us By John & Nisha Whitehead April 6, 2023 Share It is easy to be distracted right now by the bread and circus politics that have dominated the news headlines lately, but don’t be distracted. Don’t be fooled, not even a little. We’re being subjected to the oldest con game in the books, the magician’s sleight of hand that keeps you focused on the shell game in front of you while your wallet is being picked clean by ruffians in your midst. This is how tyranny rises and freedom falls. What characterizes American Government today is not so much dysfunctional politics as it is ruthlessly contrived governance carried out behind the entertaining, distracting and disingenuous curtain of political theater. And what political theater it is, diabolically Shakespearean at times, full of sound and fury, yet in the end, signifying nothing. We are being ruled by a government of scoundrels, spies, thugs, thieves, gangsters, ruffians, extortionists, bounty hunters, battle-ready warriors and cold-blooded killers who communicate using a language of force and oppression. The U.S. Government now poses the greatest threat to our freedoms. More than Terrorism, more than domestic extremism, more than gun violence and organized crime, even more than the perceived threat posed by any single politician, the U.S. Government remains a greater menace to the life, liberty and property of its citizens than any of the so-called dangers from which the government claims to protect us. No matter who has occupied the White House in recent years, the Deep State has succeeded in keeping the citizenry divided and at each other’s throats. After all, as long as we’re busy fighting each other, we’ll never manage to present a unified front against tyranny in any form. Unfortunately, what we are facing is tyranny in every form. The facts speak for themselves. We’re being robbed blind by a government of thieves. Americans no longer have any real protection against government agents empowered to seize private property at will. For instance, police agencies under the guise of asset forfeiture laws are taking Americans’ personal property based on little more than a suspicion of criminal activity and keeping it for their own profit and gain. In one case, police seized more than $17,000 in cash from two sisters who were trying to start a dog breeding business. Despite finding no evidence of wrongdoing, police held onto the money for months. We’re being taken advantage of by a government of scoundrels, idiots and cowards. When you’ve got government representatives who spend a large chunk of their work hours fundraising, being feted by lobbyists, shuffling through a lucrative revolving door between public service and lobbying and making themselves available to anyone with enough money to secure access to a congressional office, you’re in the clutches of a corrupt oligarchy. We’re being locked up by a government of greedy jailers. We have become a carceral state, spending three times more on our prisons than on our schools and imprisoning close to a quarter of the world’s prisoners, despite the fact that crime remains relatively low and the U.S. makes up only 5% of the world’s population. The rise of overcriminalization and profit-driven private prisons provides even greater incentives for locking up American citizens for such non-violent “crimes” as having an overgrown lawn. We’re being spied on by a government of Peeping Toms. The government, along with its corporate partners, is watching everything you do, reading everything you write, listening to everything you say and monitoring everything you spend. Omnipresent surveillance is paving the way for government programs that profile citizens, document their behavior and attempt to predict what they might do in the future, whether it’s what they might buy, what politician they might support, or what kinds of crimes they might commit. We’re being ravaged by a government of ruffians, rapists and killers. It’s not just the police shootings of unarmed citizens that are worrisome. It’s the SWAT team raids gone wrong—more than 80,000 annually—that are leaving innocent citizens wounded, children terrorized and family pets killed. It’s the roadside strip searches—in some cases, cavity searches of men and women alike carried out in full view of the public—in pursuit of drugs that are never found. We’re being forced to surrender our freedoms—and those of our children—to a government of extortionists, money launderers and professional pirates. The American people have repeatedly been sold a bill of goods about how the government needs more money, more expansive powers and more secrecy (secret courts, secret budgets, secret military campaigns, secret surveillance) in order to keep us safe. Not surprisingly, the primary ones to benefit from these government exercises in legal money laundering have been the corporations, lobbyists and politicians who inflict them on a trusting public. We’re being held at gunpoint by a government of soldiers: a standing army. The U.S. Government is creating its own standing army of militarized police and teams of weaponized, federal bureaucrats. These civilian employees are being armed to the hilt with guns, ammunition and military-style equipment; authorized to make arrests and trained in military tactics. There are now reportedly more bureaucratic (non-military) government civilians armed with high-tech, deadly weapons than U.S. Marines. Whatever else it may be—a danger, a menace, a threat—the U.S. Government is certainly no friend to freedom. You cannot have a republican form of government—nor a democratic one, for that matter—when the government views itself as superior to the citizenry, when it no longer operates for the benefit of the people, when the people are no longer able to peacefully reform their government, when government officials cease to act like public servants, when elected officials no longer represent the will of the people, when the government routinely violates the rights of the people and perpetuates more violence against the citizenry than the criminal class, when government spending is unaccountable and unaccounted for, when the judiciary act as courts of order rather than justice, and when the government is no longer bound by the laws of the Constitution. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, we no longer have a government “of the people, by the people and for the people.” Rather, what we have is a government of wolves. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an Attorney and Author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of Constitutional Law, Human Rights and Popular Culture. John Whitehead's Commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org . Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org < Previous News Next News >

Water Damage? Call The Experts 1st Priority Restoration Will Fix The Problem February 3, 2022 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 Restoration 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 “Mitigation” 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. 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 Prior-ity 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 fix 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 Restoration, 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 / 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 impor-tant asset, so just like you go see a doctor for tests, your home needs tests too. 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 symptoms 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. Sometimes, people may develop severe reactions to mold exposure, but cleaning and sanitizing by professionals you can trust, can help. 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 Restor-ation, 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. We strive to make our customers 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 >

A Rousing Finale Completes SFSO’s 28th Season - The Orchestra Presents Mendelssohn’s “Italian” Symphony And Hebrides Overtune “Fingal’s Cave” Plus Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4 Featuring Tao Lin South Florida Sun Times Mar 26, 2026 Dark And Stormy Seas Give Way To Sun-Soaked Skies During South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s (SFSO) 28th Season Of “Juxtapositions” Closer At 7:30 p.m. On Wednesday, April 8th, 2026 At The Parker Located At 707 Northeast 8th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. Led By Award-Winning Music Director Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, SFSO presents Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture “Fingal’s Cave” Which Conjures The Misty And Mystic Beauty Of Scotland’s Famed Isle Of Staffa, And His Symphony No. 4, Nicknamed The “Italian,” Recalling The Country’s Natural Beauty, Radiating Warmth And Energy. Rounding Out The Program Is Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4, A Rich And Nuanced Affair, Featuring Acclaimed Pianist Tao Lin. Enjoy A Pre-Concert Chat With Dr. Alan Mason 30 Minutes Before The Performance, Featuring In-Depth Conversation And Insights About The Works And Composers. "To borrow from Italy’s famous saying, ‘la dolce vita’ - life is sweetest when shared,” said Maestra Alfonso. “Our ‘Juxtapositions’ finale beautifully captures that spirit: the sunny cheerfulness of Mendelssohn’s ‘Italian’ Symphony and the luminous reflection of Beethoven’s Fourth Piano Concerto are made all the sweeter by the audiences who bring them to life. These contrasting journeys - one vibrant, the other introspective - remind us that music is a conversation, and its true magic happens in the shared moments between performers and listeners." The awe-inducing rugged beauty of Fingal’s Cave, a sea cavern on the Isle of Staffa known for its natural acoustics, is the inspiration behind Mendelssohn’s stirring Hebrides Overture. Here, Mendelssohn deftly crafts a stunning portrait of Scotland’s crashing waves and misty and mysterious coastline, setting an early example of a tone poem (a standalone work that evokes a mood or sets a scene) in the process. Nature strikes again in Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4, nicknamed the “Italian.” Influenced by the brilliant blue skies of Italy, this sunny work bristles with energy and warmth. Its finale, a Saltarello – a lively Italian folk dance – is said to be inspired by the composer’s own Roman carnival adventures, where he was even “pelted with sugar candies.” A solitary piano draws you into Beethoven’s Fourth Piano Concerto and turns tradition on its head. Frequent SFSO guest pianist Tao Lin performs this revolutionary work that replaces bravado with vulnerability through a delicate dialogue between piano and orchestra that swells into grand passages of triumph and vitality. Described by critics as possessing “keen musical intelligence and excellent facility” (Miami Herald), “joyful virtuosity and stylish musicianship” (Gramophone magazine), as well as “opulent and romantic tone” (Fanfare), Chinese American concert pianist and Steinway artist Tao Lin has performed in Asia, North America, and Europe with orchestras including Moscow Chamber, Winnipeg Symphony, Atlantic Classical, and Knoxville Civic. As a recitalist, he has appeared at Kennedy Center, National Gallery of Art, Rockefeller University, Chautauqua Institute, Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, Minnesota Orchestra Hall, Izumi Hall (Osaka, Japan), and Edvard Grieg Museum in Norway. He has also appeared in concerts with Aspen Trio, Miami, Bergonzi, Alcon, Ying, Shanghai, and Rosalyra String Quartets, as well as distinguished musicians. A frequent pianist and lecturer at the Music Festival of the Hamptons, Mainly Mozart Festival, Music Mountain Chamber Music Festival, Arts Rolla Festival, Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival, and Festival Miami, Lin is currently an artist faculty member at the Bowdoin International Music Festival and is a visiting professor at Shanghai Normal University School of Music. A prolific recording artist, Lin can be heard on Naxos, Artek, Centaur, Romeo, Poinciana, and Piano Lovers labels, his recording of the complete music for Violin and Piano by Franz Schubert (with Violinist Tomas Cotik) was awarded Recording of the Year by MusicWeb International. SFSO’s 28th Season of “Juxtapositions” has explored beauty in contrasts, where the bold and the sublime intersect, and timeless masterpieces share the stage with today’s most compelling and celebrated musical voices. From sold-out masterworks performances to accompanying today’s musicians such as Natalie Merchant and performing modern musical scores including Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas and Back to the Future, featuring the iconic films screened live with audio and musical accompaniment, South Florida’s largest symphonic orchestra is continuing its journey of excellence inspiring audiences of all ages and musical genres. Tickets are now on sale beginning at $35 (plus ticketing fees). Purchase tickets online at: https://southfloridasymphony.org . Or: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com . By phone at: (954) 462-0222. Press Option#: 1. And in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. For additional information, visit: https://southfloridasymphony.org . Call: (954) 522-8445. Or email: info@southfloridasymphony.org . About South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, the Fort Lauderdale-based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is celebrating its 28th Season. SFSO is dedicated to providing enriching cultural music experiences to residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative programming and transformative educational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communities, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of over 160,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO was recently named the first Partner in the Arts for The Parker by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored. For a performance schedule and season tickets, call: (954) 522-8445. Or visit: https://southfloridasymphony.org . Previous Next