How Many Florida Condo Associations Are Financially Sound? By Christopher Carter - Real Estate Broker Associate October 26, 2023 Share Another trick question, because the definition of "financially sound" varies depending on who you are asking. In terms of whether or not a Florida Condominium Owners Association has enough money to responsibly operate, maintain, and protect the building and property, the answer to our headline question is "Not as many as there should be..." For this article, we are defining financially sound as an Association's ability to pay current operating costs and be ready for future expected repair and replacement costs without unreasonably burdening the owners or going into debt. Today we are discussing Florida Condominium Associations, though the basics of good financial management also apply to cooperatives and HOA communities. According to the Division of Florida Condominiums, Timeshares, and Mobile Homes, in October 2023 there were almost 25,000 separate residential Condominium Owners Associations registered with the State. All those COAs contain more than 1.4 million individual condominium units. This means that over 1.4 million owners are paying assessments (dues, fees) to their Associations for managing, operating, and maintaining all the common elements (areas) and physical components of the building or community. Owners' payments contribute to shared costs such as: • Building maintenance & repair • Landscaping & exterior lighting • Swimming pool and deck • Elevators • Parking areas and driveways • Onsite amenities (clubhouse, fitness room, etc) • Property hazard and liability insurance • Management fees • COA property taxes After the catastrophic and deadly Surfside building collapse in June 2021 and various attempts at "condo reform" legislation since then, another budget line item has gained long-overdue awareness and importance: • Reserve funding In this overview, I will not be going into detailed analysis of deferred maintenance, physical deterioration, Reserve funding calculations, legislative inconsistencies, or Florida Statutes references. This article is intended to be a general overview and introduction for individual unit owners, especially new ones still unfamiliar with how Florida residential Owners Associations function. (Note - In direct response to the Surfside collapse, the Florida legislature passed SB-4D (2022) and its follow up SB-154 (2023), two "condo reform" bills that attempt to deal with building safety and include limited Reserve funding requirements. In my opinion, the practical application of this legislation is awkward and unenforceable. See my other articles for further commentary.) Owners' scheduled assessments (usually quarterly) pay for current, ongoing, and expected future repairs and maintenance of Association-owned property. Example - your Association pays a pool service to skim leaves and check chemical levels daily in the building or community swimming pool (current ongoing maintenance). Though at some point the pool will need to be drained and resurfaced, which is larger-scale expected future maintenance. All Association-owned physical components (common elements) that will need future service, repair, or replacement have an Expected Useful Life (EUL) expressed in years, as well as an Estimated Replacement Cost (ERC) for the work required at the end of its EUL. These are the components that should have Reserve funding entries in the Deferred Maintenance Schedule and carried into the Association's annual budget. In very basic terms: Replacement Cost ÷ Useful Life = Annual Reserve Contribution Reserve funding for common elements in its most basic definition is putting away a little money each quarter so enough will be there when a large common element/area item has to be serviced, repaired, or replaced. The following common physical components should have Reserve funding accounts for anticipated future service, repair, and replacement: • Building exterior paint and waterproofing • Roofs • Driveway and parking area paving • Elevators • Swimming pool and deck • Balcony / lanai railings and concrete deterioration • Lobby, meeting room, office equipment and furnishings • Front gate mechanisms and security systems • Any Association-owned common component that will require major (costly) repair or replacement at the end of its Expected Useful Life Florida COAs are notorious for repeatedly waiving or underfunding their Reserve contributions. When you collect less than is really needed to fully fund Reserves, quarterly assessments due from each owner magically become lower. Many Boards and owners take this dangerously short-term financial view. When owners continue to vote for waiving or underfunding Reserves, many of them are playing the popular game of Florida Condo Roulette, betting that they will have already sold and no longer own a unit when the inevitable Special Assessment comes through for a large maintenance expense like a new roof, elevators, or balcony/lanai concrete repairs. An important concept in Reserve funding is the term Fully Funded, which means enough money is being collected each year in order for there to be enough in a certain item's Reserve account to fully pay for its repair or replacement when needed. It does NOT mean that all the money has already been collected and is sitting in the Reserve account. Rather, if an item's Reserve account balance is increasing through owner contributions at an annual rate that provides for all the money to be there at the end of the item's useful life, it is being Fully Funded along the way. Well-run COAs view being Fully Funded as a moving target, and usually end up around 75-85%, which keeps any Special Assessments manageable because most of the repair/replacement cost has already been collected. Just because an Association's budget and financial statements say that it collects for Reserves and has a Maintenance Schedule, that doesn't automatically mean it is financially sound. Here are a few questions to ask when reviewing a Florida COA's financials regarding Reserves: • Was a real Reserve Study performed by a third-party professional based on an onsite visit and inspection? Deferred Maintenance Schedules prepared in an office by a manager or management company are NOT the same as a professional Reserve Study. • Who determined the initial Expected Useful Life numbers used? Using artificially long numbers falsely lowers the calculated Reserve contributions that are required. Common components deteriorate from physical exposure and insufficient maintenance, and the rate of deterioration cannot be changed through mathematical calculations. • Have onsite physical inspections been performed recently to see if Remaining Life estimates are still accurate? The Florida environment significantly accelerates wear and deterioration on all Association physical elements. Remaining Life estimates must be adjusted regularly (every 2-3 years) to account for physical components' environmental exposure, level of maintenance, and use. • Have Replacement Cost estimates been reviewed and updated recently to include current materials and labor costs? Estimated Replacement Cost entries more than 2-3 years old can be wildly inaccurate. • Have Remaining Life estimates been correctly adjusted year-to-year in the Deferred Maintenance Schedule? I have seen schedules that have the same Remaining Life shown for 2 or 3 consecutive years. Without physical inspection, is this just a clerical error or an attempt to quietly extend required maintenance and defer its cost? • Have there been any unexplained transfers into or out of Reserve accounts? In Florida, Reserve funds cannot be used for any other purpose without an owner vote. When any of the answers reveal discrepancies in the numbers used to calculate Reserve funding levels, owners need to ask questions. Remember - Association money is owners' money. The real problem is that most Boards and owners never ask these questions. What are the downsides to underfunded Reserves? What happens when there is not enough in a Reserve fund to pay for needed maintenance, repair, or replacement? Here are the only choices available in that case: • Needed work is delayed past scheduled service time, which always ends up costing more and can cause significant resident safety issues. • Boards increase current scheduled owner assessments in order to collect more money, then pay for the needed work later. The problem with this approach is that it only addresses the financial side. The component's deterioration continues and must be addressed. • The Board levies a Special Assessment to all owners. These are paid in addition to scheduled (quarterly) assessments. • The Association gets a bank loan to pay for needed repairs. When loan money is used to maintain, repair, or replace any component that already has a Reserve account, it is clear proof that Reserves have been underfunded for an extended period. Inflation and increased costs are not a valid excuse. Remember - remaining life and replacement costs should be reviewed regularly. • The item needing repair or replacement is ignored and remains unaddressed, which can endanger resident safety and noticeably reduce owners' enjoyment and use of their properties. Largely due to the Surfside collapse and resulting increased awareness of proper Reserve funding, potential buyers of Florida condos are now much more aware of deferred maintenance, physical deterioration, and the costs involved. Florida condos governed by Associations with well-funded Reserves, timely maintenance practices, and closely monitored physical deterioration pose much less financial risk to buyers. There we are, a quick intro and overview for owners about COA Reserve accounts and common component physical maintenance. Editor's Note: Christopher Carter is NOT an attorney. He does not give legal advice. For interpretation and application to specific circumstances of anything you read in this article, you must speak with a Florida-Licensed attorney. Have a question or comment about anything you see here, if so, visit: www.TheFloridaRealEstateBlog.com < Previous News Next News >

How One Foundation's $1 Million Pledge Is Changing Children's Lives By BPT Jul 16, 2025 Every Child Deserves The Chance To Play, Dream And Just Be A Kid - No Matter What Their Circumstances. That's Why The Unleashed Brands Foundation - The Charitable Affiliate Of The Leading Youth Enrichment Platform Unleashed Brands - Has Pledged $1 Million Over The Next Five Years To The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). This Significant Commitment Will Support Lls's Mission To Cure Blood Cancer And Improve The Quality Of Life Of All Patients And Their Families. With This Commitment, The Unleashed Brands Foundation Becomes A Key Supporter Of The Dare To Dream Project, LLS's Flagship Initiative Focused On Transforming Treatment And Care For Children With Blood Cancer. You might not recognize the Foundation by name, but you've likely encountered one of the eight Unleashed Brands youth enrichment companies: Urban Air, The Little Gym, Premier Martial Arts, Snapology, Sylvan Learning, Water Wings Swim School, XP League and Class 101. These brands serve millions of families nationwide, helping kids learn, play, and grow from infancy through adolescence. Through this pledge, the Foundation is turning the everyday moments families already know - birthday parties, play dates, after-school programs - into meaningful action. Every Guest Can Make a Difference Families now have a new, simple way to support children battling Blood Cancers. A new "round-up" feature will be activated across all Unleashed Brands companies, giving guests the opportunity to round up purchases to the nearest dollar at checkout. With 20 million visits expected across the platform this year, these small contributions can add up to big impact - funding research, advancing safer treatments, and supporting families when they need it most. Sock It to Cancer Returns This Fall This September, in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, all Unleashed Brands locations will join together in the Annual Sock It to Cancer campaign by selling limited-edition socks, with proceeds benefiting the LLS Dare to Dream Project. A history of care and support The Unleashed Brands Foundation supports national and regional nonprofit partners that provide opportunities to at-risk youth. Together, they are focused on creating the ultimate comeback kids. While this $1 Million pledge is new, the heart behind it isn't. The Foundation was created to help kids thrive - and across the country, franchisees are bringing that mission to life every day. While each franchise is its own entity, Unleashed Brands has a culture of care that inspires franchisees to make a meaningful impact. Below are just a few examples of how that commitment is making a difference in communities across the country. • Urban Air Brockton, Massachusetts, stuffed 1,000 teddy bears to deliver to local hospitals and nonprofits, bringing comfort and joy to children across the city. • The Little Gym of Keller, Texas, teamed up with Toys for Tots to collect gifts for families in need. Their generosity filled donation boxes with toys, ensuring that more children had something to unwrap - and smile about - during the holidays. • Urban Air of Southlake, Texas, helps underserved kids gear up for the school year. Hundreds of kids walked away with backpacks, supplies, food, fun and confidence, all thanks to their community stepping up. • In Sterling Heights, Michigan, Urban Air hosted a blood drive, bringing in donors and collecting enough to save dozens of lives. • In Dayton, Ohio, Class 101 rallied around Ava, a young woman diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma. By providing scholarship support and encouragement, the local Class 101 team showed her and her family that she was not alone. • In Jersey City, New Jersey, The Little Gym hosted its Third Annual Diaper Derby. This joyful, hilarious and meaningful event supports diaper banks and families in need. Curious to learn more about Unleashed Brands Foundation? Visit: https://InvestInKids.org to learn how you can support children and families affected by Blood Cancers. Previous Next

Take the L.O.V.E. Test: Help Pets Achieve and Maintain a Healthy Weight June 22, 2023 Share Pet parents often show love for their pets with food. However, that extra "love" can lead to weight gain, which can increase the risk of developing other medical conditions. More than 50% of pets are overweight, but 90% of pet parents with an overweight pet don't realize it, according to research from Hill's Pet Nutrition, a global leader in science-led nutrition. To help transform the lives of pets, Drs. Vernard Hodges and Terrence Ferguson, stars of Nat Geo Wild's "Critter Fixers: Country Vets," are encouraging pet parents to take a proactive approach to maintaining their pet's weight. "As veterinarians, we want every pet to live a long and healthy life," Hodges said. "That's why pet parents should actively monitor their pet's weight and address it in real time with the guidance of their veterinarian. We are proud to be a part of Hill's 'End Pet Obesity' campaign to help pet parents learn about the impact of even a few extra pounds and equip them with the tools and resources they need to help their pets achieve and maintain a healthy weight." Consider these simple steps to get started: Take the L.O.V.E. Test To help assess a pet's weight, use the L.O.V.E. Test, which includes four simple actions: Locate the pet's ribs Observe from above View from the side Evaluate feeding behavior "Sometimes, under all their beautiful fur, it's hard to realize our pets have gained weight, and even just a few extra pounds can have an impact on their energy and overall wellness," Ferguson said. "Taking the L.O.V.E test is an easy way to evaluate a pet's body condition to determine if it's time to take action." Schedule a Visit with a Veterinarian Pet parents who have concerns about their pet's weight should seek their veterinarian's guidance. Conversation starters include: Is my pet at an ideal weight? How can I help my pet reach an ideal weight? How can food help manage my pet's weight? Switch to the Right Food "Obesity is one of the greatest health risks for pets, and what a pet eats is one of the most important decisions a pet parent can make," Ferguson said. "Whether your pet is a new addition to the family or has just eaten a little too much, now is a great time for pet parents to reset nutritional habits and make sure their pet is at a healthy weight - starting with the food they feed." Pet parents should work with their veterinarian to choose the right food to support their pet's weight loss journey. Weight management products can help pets achieve an ideal weight, including Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight, which has shown to lead to weight loss within 10 weeks in 70% of pets fed this nutritional food. For obese pets, veterinarians may recommend a therapeutic food. "We have been studying the impact of nutrition on how pets' bodies function for over a decade," said Dr. Karen Shenoy, Chief Veterinary Officer of Hill's Pet Nutrition U.S. "We learned lean pets have a different biology than overweight pets. This guided our development of formulas that both help support a pet's metabolism for a healthy body weight and taste great. With the guidance of a veterinarian, it can be as simple as feeding the right kind of 'love' to lose the weight." To learn more and access free tools and resources for pet weight management, visit: www.endpetobesity.com < Previous News Next News >

“Taste Of Florida” This Weekend During Florida Derby Day Celebration South Florida Sun Times Mar 26, 2026 Gulfstream Park Will Celebrate The Vibrant Culinary Culture Of The Sunshine State With Taste Of Florida, A One-Time-Only Experience Taking Place Saturday, March 28th, 2026 Inside The Iconic Flamingo Room As Part Of The Excitement Surrounding Florida Derby Day. The event coincides with one of the most prestigious days of Thoroughbred racing in the country, highlighted by the $1 Million Grade 1 Curlin Florida Derby, one of the premier prep races on the road to the Kentucky Derby. Over the years, 47 Florida Derby starters have gone on to win a remarkable 63 Triple Crown races, including 26 Kentucky Derby winners, 19 Preakness Stakes winners, and 18 Belmont Stakes winners, cementing the race’s reputation as a key proving ground for future champions. As race fans gather at Gulfstream Park for a full day of elite competition, Taste of Florida will bring together some of South Florida’s most celebrated chefs—including multiple James Beard–nominated culinary talents—for an evening of signature dishes, regional flavors, and lively entertainment. Guests will enjoy curated tastings from acclaimed chefs representing some of the region’s most exciting kitchens. Highlights include: • Brad Kilgore (Pizza Freak) serving an assortment of his signature pizzas. • Jose Mendin (Pubbelly Sushi) presented the Sake Aburi Roll with soy paper, crab, seared salmon, yuzu miso sauce, and truffle oil. • Jeff McInnis (Florida Room) offering his playful Caramel Bacon Clothesline with Sweet + Savory Ricotta Beignets. • Janine Booth (Root & Bone) featuring Sweet Tea Brined Fried Chicken with Dehydrated Lemon Dust and Tabasco Honey. • Jason Glus showcasing a celebration of regional flavors, including Lechon in La Caja China, Gator Tail Fritters, Everglades Oysters, and a variety of South Florida–inspired savory bites and desserts. Adding to the indulgence, a roaming Caviar Experience will circulate throughout the event, offering decadent caviar bumps from Oysters XO, creating a playful and luxurious tasting moment for guests. The day’s atmosphere will be elevated with live entertainment in the Flamingo Room, featuring both a live band and a DJ to keep the celebration going throughout the night. Florida Derby Day will feature a full card of stakes races, including: • Grade 1 Curlin Florida Derby — $1,000,000, 3-year-olds, 1 1/8 miles (dirt) • Grade 2 Gulfstream Park Oaks — $250,000, 3-year-old fillies, 1 1/16 miles (dirt) • Grade 3 Pan American presented by Rood & Riddle — $150,000, 4YO & up, 1 1/2 miles (turf) • Grade 3 Orchid — $150,000, fillies & mares 4YO & up, 1 1/2 miles (turf) • Grade 3 Ghostzapper — $150,000, 4YO & up, 1 1/16 miles (dirt) • Appleton — $150,000, 4YO & up, 1 mile (turf) • Sand Springs — $150,000, fillies & mares 4YO & up, 1 1/16 miles (turf) • Army Mule — $150,000, 4YO & up, 7 furlongs (dirt) • Cutler Bay — $150,000, 3-year-olds, 7 1/2 furlongs (turf) • Sanibel Island — $150,000, 3-year-old fillies, 7 1/2 furlongs (turf) Taste of Florida aims to spotlight the culinary creativity and diverse flavors that define the region, bringing together chefs, racing fans, and the community for a memorable night of food, music, and South Florida flair during one of the sport’s most exciting days. Taste at the Track: Taste of Florida Tickets: Must be 21+ to attend. Tax and fees are not included. www.gulfstreampark.com/event/entertainment/taste-at-the-track-bourbon-and-bbq-march1-2025 • GA Ticket: $175, 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. • VIP Ticket: $225, 12:00 p.m - 5:00 p.m. (Get a bonus hour of food and tastings, plus priority seating) For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit: https://www.gulfstreampark.com/event/entertainment/wine-and-tapas-mar-2026/ About Gulfstream Park Gulfstream Park is South Florida’s premier entertainment destination, offering world-class Thoroughbred racing, dining, shopping, and special events in the heart of Hallandale Beach. Home to the Florida Derby, Gulfstream Park has long served as a launching pad for Triple Crown champions and a centerpiece of the region’s sporting and hospitality scene. Gulfstream Park is located at 901 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009 Instagram: @gulfstreampark For more information about Gulfstream Park & The Village at Gulfstream Park, please visit: www.gulfstreampark.com Previous Next

Hallandale Beach Stands With Israel By Ira Liebowitz October 19, 2023 Share City Officials Held A Vigil At City Hall On October 10th To Show - We Are United A heterogeneous mix of humanity attended an emotional vigil in staunch solidarity for Israel after atrocities had been committed by Islamic Terrorists against innocent civilians of the Jewish state. The event, which took place outside Hallandale Beach City Hall, had been coordinated remarkably in just the 48 hours prior to the event by Vice Mayor Anabelle Lima-Taub and Mayor Joy Cooper. Residents of Hallandale Beach had been contacted by telephone the day before, alerting them to the impromptu vigil to inform the public as well as to pray for the nation of Israel amid suffering brought on by unprovoked aggression by the militant group, Hamas. Perhaps 300 people of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds attended the vigil on Tuesday, October 10th, which began at 6:30 p.m. and ended past 9:00 p.m. Members of the City Commission, Police Force, the Religious Community - some Orthodox, others “Reformed” - attended. A hodgepodge of people gathered to represent the best of homo sapiens and promote peace and unity. The motorcyclists, Rolling Thunder, held a placard as they expressed solidarity as well as kind hearts. Present were several of the rabbinical community. Speakers took to a microphone, many speaking spontaneously from the heart with great compassion and feeling—eloquently. All virtually touched upon the same subjects regarding unity and the need to obliterate purveyors of Terror. They were angered with the mentioning of the unimaginable crimes that were perpetrated, reminiscent of the carnage against humanity during the Holocaust more than three quarters of a century ago. Never Again! Never Again! — The cry expressed regarding the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. Also, the axiom of history, if forgotten, may repeat itself, was expressed at the Vigil. It is all but forgotten that as Concentration Camps were liberated as WWII ended, then General Dwight D. Eisenhower ordered that the German townsfolk neighboring outside must witness the barbarity carried out inside. This future U.S. President instructed a film crew to record this horrid tableau to serve as a warning for posterity. The size of the nation of Israel has been compared to that of New Jersey. It is surrounded by enemies, some whose doctrine is to wipe the Jewish state - and its people - off the map. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu therefore resolutely declared war on Iranian-Proxy Hamas. It is estimated that the present Israeli casualty count, if extrapolated for the difference in population to that of the U.S., would amount to more than 35,000 deaths. This adds up to more than ten times the casualties of America’s tragedy on September 11th, 2001, during the attack on the Twin Towers. After the unprovoked incursion, Israel virtually has been forced to retaliate in self-defense and as a deterrent to stem further aggression. Notably, as “collateral damage,” a great many Palestinian lives also have been lost. It is widely acknowledged that ALL lives are precious, and that kindness and compassion must counter evil. It was mentioned that the atrocities had begun on a Saturday, a Jewish time of Sabbath and also during the end of Sukkot, a festival commemorating Moses leading the Israelites away from bondage. It is no coincidence that the Islamic incursion during this time of reflection was intended to take the Jewish state by surprise. The Siddur, a Jewish prayer book, cites that the good will be held up and wicked will be vanquished: • “He is the G-d who exacts vengeance for us from our foes and Who brings just retribution upon the enemies of our soul.” • "Who delivers us from the grip of all the tyrants; the benevolent G-d Who avenges us against our persecutors, and brings retribution on all our mortal enemies." • "As for all those who plot evil against me, hasten to annul their counsel and frustrate their design." Many adjectives regarding the marauders - the murderers - were expressed. Monsters, Creatures, etc. Crimes noted included abominable abuse of babies and seniors. It was said that the crimes committed were so barbaric as could hardly be imagined, lest in a grisly horror movie. That this had occurred in real-life made the heinous acts all the more detestable. Last Friday 13th, Broadcast Announcers Glenn Beck and Sean Hannity aired these words respectively: "These terrorists are below the animals.” "This rabid, virulent Anti-Semitism worldwide--where is this coming from?” A distinction was made regarding killing of combatants during wartime and the indiscriminate brutal slayings of civilians. At one point, during the vigil, a wartime siren blared, likely sending chills to many on this otherwise balmy South Florida evening. North Miami Beach Resident Rivkah, had attended and commented, “The speakers did a wonderful job at inspiring the public to show and to give support to Israel. The beautiful choir, the sound of the Shofar, and the recored air raid siren all created feelings of unity and solidarity. May the City of Hallandale, along with all who befriend Israel be blessed with the blessing given by G-d to Abraham,” I will bless those who bless you.” Conveniently, City Hall is located next to the Hallandale Beach Police Station. The presence of Police Officers no doubt afforded solace and security at the Vigil which ran without incident. Mayor Cooper warned to be vigilant when at upcoming rallies as insurgents bent on mischief might be present. A yellow medical vehicle from the Jewish Community’s Hatzalah was on hand. By the way, another Vigil ran concurrently in Hollywood, Florida, hosted by Mayor Josh Levy. He commented, “It was important to have the Vigil. People needed a way to mourn and not be alone. This is a very tough time for everyone.” Finally, after some two hours and more than a dozen speakers, the Hallandale Beach Mayor and Vice-Mayor emotively thanked the audience for attending. At times, led by a Rabbi, joyous singing helped lighten this special evening. It was mentioned that Vice-Mayor Anabelle Lima-Taub had burned the proverbial midnight oil to organize the event. And, to the Mayor, City Commission, patrol and eloquent speakers, the diverse attendees can tip their occasional cowboy hats and more-prominent yarmulkes to the Hallandale Beach Officials who, in a flash of two days, orchestrated a memorable, heartwarming, event. The day after the Vigil, City Hall provided a press release including this message: “The City of Hallandale Beach stands united with Israel and its people in the face of recent tragic events that have inflicted loss, suffering and instability... We reaffirm our dedication to peace, security, and stability at this critical juncture. We call for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflicts.” Furthermore, were shared resources made available by the U.S. State Department to assist U.S. Citizens seeking to contact the U.S. Embassy in Israel, travel to and from the country and enroll contact information for U.S. Travelers. "In response to these challenging circumstances, the City of Hallandale Beach has taken progressive actions to support and protect our community in solidarity with Israel. We have worked closely with the Hallandale Beach Police Department to maximize police presence at synagogues and other houses of worship, ensuring all residents' and visitors' safety and security." "May the values of peace and solidarity prevail, ending the suffering and leading to a brighter, more peaceful future for all. Our thoughts and prayers are with Israel, and we hope for a swift and just resolution to the current crisis." City of Hallandale Beach Never Again! < Previous News Next News >

Aventura Chick-fil-A Restaurant to Offer Free Breakfast: Guests Can Claim the Complimentary Menu Offer Via the Chick-fil-A App Wed May 15 2024 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

South Florida’s Freedom Tax Center: Your Trusted Partner in Navigating Complex Tax Matters Wed Feb 21 2024 17:21:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Project Total Control: Everything Is a Weapon When Totalitarianism Is Normalized Thu Jul 25 2024 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

North Miami Mayor Alix Desulme Receives Prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award From President Joe Biden January 29, 2025 Share The City of North Miami proudly announces that Mayor Alix Desulme, Ed. D., has been awarded the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious recognition, presented by outgoing President Joe Biden, is the highest honor for volunteer service nationwide. It is bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to building a stronger nation through volunteerism and public service. Desulme’s unwavering commitment to community service and his remarkable achievement of contributing over 500 hours of volunteer work for the betterment of society have earned him this esteemed award. The award was presented during the Presidential and International Leadership Awards Dinner on Tuesday, January 21st, at the Capitol Hilton Hotel, in Washington, DC 20036. Hosted by the Caribbean and African Faith-Based Leadership Conference (CAFBLC), this event highlighted Desulme’s exceptional dedication to service. The CAFBLC is also the Certifying Organization (CO) for the President’s Volunteer Service Award. Mayor Desulme was among several distinguished honorees recognized during the ceremony, which celebrated individuals for their outstanding contributions to community and public service. “I am truly humbled and honored to receive this recognition from President Biden,” said Desulme. “Service is at the core of who I am; and I firmly believe that leadership is about making a tangible difference in the lives of others. This award is not just a reflection of my work, but of the incredible community I serve. I share this honor with the residents of North Miami, whose resilience and unity continue to inspire me every day.” About Mayor Alix Desulme Mayor Alix Desulme is a visionary leader, educator, and advocate whose lifelong dedication to public service continues to shape the future of North Miami. Elected to serve another term on December 3rd, 2024, Mayor Desulme is driven by a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of residents and fostering a city rooted in progress, equity, and opportunity. With a background as an educator and entrepreneur, Mayor Desulme’s leadership is both dynamic and multifaceted. As a lifelong educator, he has inspired and empowered students from diverse backgrounds — from at-risk youth…to gifted learners — with his passion for education and personal growth. His entrepreneurial experience as a small business owner reflects his innovative spirit and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing local businesses. Mayor Desulme’s journey in public service began with historic milestones. In 2009, he became North Miami’s first Black City Clerk and the youngest Haitian American to hold such a position in the United States. His path-breaking leadership continued in 2015, when he was elected to the North Miami City Council to represent District 4. Over the years, he has earned the trust and admiration of residents, displayed in his landslide re-election in 2019. His tenure as Vice Mayor — in 2016 — solidified his reputation as a trailblazer and an advocate for the community. Throughout his career, Mayor Desulme has championed innovative programs that enrich the lives of North Miami residents. His creation of the Golden Silver Senior Program provided critical support and resources to the city’s senior population. Through initiatives like “Let’s Eat Healthy,” he works to ensure residents have access to fresh, nutritious food. His efforts to establish North Miami’s first Housing and Social Services Department have transformed the city’s ability to address housing stability and social equity, laying the foundation for a thriving, inclusive community. Passionate about preparing the next generation, Mayor Desulme founded the NoMi Leaders in Training Program — better known as L.I.T. — to inspire and equip future public servants. This program seamlessly integrates with the Youth Opportunity Board (YOB) Summer Internship Program, giving young leaders invaluable experience and insight into civic engagement. In addition to his role as Mayor of North Miami — Mayor Desulme continues to inspire through his work as an Adjunct Professor at St. Thomas University and as an Educational Consultant. With a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership, his research on reducing truancy in public charter schools underscores his commitment to addressing systemic educational challenges and creating pathways for student success. Since first being appointed as Mayor of North Miami in December 2022, Mayor Desulme has continued to lead with compassion, vision, and an unwavering focus on progress. Under his leadership, the city has embraced Transformative Initiatives in Economic Development, Infrastructure Improvements, Environmental Sustainability and Community Empowerment. His mantra, “Putting People First,” remains the guiding principle behind every decision and action. Mayor Alix Desulme is a champion of hope and a catalyst for positive change. With a deep connection to the community and a clear vision for the future, he remains dedicated to building a thriving North Miami for all. < Previous News Next News >

2022 - Year In Review: We Obviously Are Still Not Out of The Woods Thu Dec 29 2022 17:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Knead, Braid And Connect: The Braiding Bunch Brings Women Together For Challah Baking Jewish Connection News Sep 10, 2026 This Fall, Women In The Community Are Invited To Gather, Bake And Connect Through A New Three-Part Culinary And Spiritual Experience: The Braiding Bunch, A Women-Only Challah-Baking Series Designed To Celebrate Tradition, Friendship And The Joy Of Preparing For Shabbath. Taking place at Owen’s Place at the DPJCC, the series will meet on Thursday, October 15th, 2026, Thursday, November 19th, 2026 and Thursday, December 17th, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Open to women ages 18 and up and welcoming participants from throughout the community, the program offers an opportunity to learn the art of challah making while exploring the deeper meaning behind one of Judaism’s cherished mitzvot. Challah is more than a loaf of bread. For generations, the process of preparing and braiding challah has been intertwined with Jewish tradition, family gatherings and the anticipation of Shabbath. The Braiding Bunch aims to bring that tradition to life in a warm, intimate setting where participants can learn, create and share the experience with others. Each session promises plenty of hands-on baking. Participants will make four challahs per session and receive a complete baking kit to help make the experience both enjoyable and accessible. Attendees will also receive a Braiding Bunch tote bag as a keepsake from the series. But organizers say the program is about more than learning how to braid dough. It is an opportunity to build community, nourish the soul and create meaningful connections. The intimate format is designed to encourage conversation and camaraderie, giving participants a chance to meet others while enjoying the simple pleasure of baking together. The series also offers a chance to pause from the pace of everyday life and prepare for Shabbath with intention. Kneading dough, shaping loaves and sharing the results can become a meaningful ritual—one that connects participants to Jewish heritage while creating new memories in the present. Registration for all three fall sessions is offered at two rates. The fee for those new to the Braiding Bunch is $180, while returning participants can join the full series for $90. Fees include all three sessions, along with the materials and experiences provided throughout the program. Because the series is designed as an intimate experience, space is limited. Community members interested in participating are encouraged to register early. For questions or additional information, contact Maya Sharon at: msharon@dpjcc.org . Or by phone at: (954) 434-0499, Extension#: 1109. With its combination of baking, Jewish tradition and community connection, The Braiding Bunch offers women an inviting way to spend three fall evenings together. Whether participants are experienced bakers or simply curious about making challah, the series promises an opportunity to learn something new, meet others and embrace the spirit of Shabbat. The David Posnack Jewish Community Center on the Nina & Louis Silverman Campus is located at: 5850 South Pine Island Road, Davie, Florida 33328. The invitation is simple: knead, braid and connect. Previous Next

A Full, Festive Menu for Holiday Celebrations Thu Nov 24 2022 17:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)