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New HOA & Condominium Laws: Do They Apply To Your Residential Owners Association By Christopher Carter - Real Estate Broker Associate July 18, 2024 Share The Florida Legislature had a very busy session earlier this year, passing some far-reaching Bills related to residential Owners Associations, HB-1203 for HOAs and HB-1021 for Condominiums. The Governor signed them into law in time for their effective date of July 1st, so we now have notable changes in the laws regulating HOAs and Condominiums in our State. In the short time these new laws have been in place, multiple news outlets, property owners, Association Boards, and Social Media "experts" have made sweeping statements about how the changes no longer allow (something) or must now allow (something else). Many of these statements are based on incomplete information or hopeful assumptions. Even Florida attorneys can't fully determine to what degree the changes may affect a residential Owners Association without first interpreting that Association's Governing Documents in relation to the new laws. It is quite likely that for the same Association some Statute changes may apply, yet others may not. Yes, really. Every Homeowners Association (HOA) or Condominium Owners Association (COA) must comply with the appropriate Chapter of Florida Statutes and their own Governing Documents which are recorded in Public Records of the County where the property is located. HB-1203 became law that amended the Homeowners Association Act (FS Chapter 720), and HB-1021 became law that amended the Condominium Act (FS Chapter 718). Governing Documents cannot conflict with the applicable Florida Statute, so what happens when a Statute is amended? Here are some Discussion Points related to our headline question: An Association's Governing Documents may or may not contain what is called Kaufman language ("...as amended from time to time") referring to the Homeowners Association Act or the Condominium Act. If similar language is in an HOA's Declaration of Covenants or a COA's Declaration of Condominium, the Governing Docs automatically stay in agreement with any amended Statutes. Kaufman language keeps an Association's Governing Docs in step with Chapter 720 or Chapter 718 as the Acts may be amended over the years. Best practices suggest that Boards send notices to all Association members/property owners explaining any changes when they occur. The language is called Kaufman because it comes from a 1977 Florida Civil Lawsuit in which judgment was made in favor of the lead plaintiff, Mr. Kaufman. The suit was filed over Florida Statute application in a North Miami Condominium Association and has become often referred-to case law which is part of this discussion. Things get much more complex when an HOA or COA Declaration does NOT contain this Kaufman language. Without some version of "...as amended from time to time" referring to the Homeowners Act or Condominium Act, periodic Statute amendments by State governments may not apply to that Association. Governing Docs without Kaufman are often considered frozen in time to the version of Chapter 720 or 718 that was in place when the Docs were drafted and recorded in County Public Records. Though it is not quite that simple... Attorneys also mention the difference between substantive (affecting owners' rights) changes in the law, and procedural (administrative) changes, which can affect application and enforcement even when there is no Kaufman language in the Declaration. Changes affecting owners' existing rights are handled very differently from procedural changes. This is one of the areas in which some parts of the new laws may apply, and some may not. The Association's attorney has to make that call, not the Board or management. Neither of the Bills (nor the Statute amendments they brought about) seem to say they apply retroactively. Unless specifically stated otherwise, Florida Statutes are presumed to apply prospectively (going forward from their effective dates). What could this suggest for application to existing Governing Docs? Without specific language, we will likely have to wait for a few civil lawsuits to create case law. Attorneys tell us that Governing Documents create a contract between an Association and its members (property owners). Florida's Constitution includes a section saying that State legislation cannot interfere with an existing contract between parties. Does this have any bearing on how Statute amendments are applied to Associations without Kaufman language in their Declarations? The Florida legislature's intent when considering and enacting changes in the HOA and Condominium Acts was to protect property owners' rights while promoting proper administration and management of residential Owners Associations. If Boards do not apply certain parts of the new laws, could that be construed as a Breach of Fiduciary Duty? We have already heard rumors of Boards selectively deciding which parts of the amended Statutes they want to apply, and which they do not. Some Directors and owners are allowing their own Confirmation Bias to influence their interpretations of what the new laws say. This means that parts of the amended Statutes supporting their points of view could be taken as applicable and enforceable, while those clauses that conflict with their own opinions could be disregarded. Scenario 1: A property owner in a Florida HOA community wants to park her pickup truck in her driveway, not in the garage as the community's Governing Docs have required since the original Declaration was recorded back in the late 1990’s. She tells the Board they can no longer issue a violation when she parks her pickup in the driveway because she saw on the evening news that the recently-amended HOA Act specifically says so. Not exactly... To determine applicability and enforcement, interpretation and legal advice from the Association's attorney is needed. This situation may affect an owner's rights (a substantive issue), though the existing Governing Docs requiring trucks to be parked in a property's garage are part of the owner's contract with the HOA. Does the Declaration include "...as amended from time to time..." language? If not, are the posted and distributed Rules & Regulations for residents sufficient basis for continued enforcement? Scenario 2: A Condominium building in South Florida has a high percentage of seasonal residents. Not many owners occupy their individual units during the summer months from May to October, so no Board meetings are held during those months. Also, for many years the Board has been comfortable with newly-elected Directors just signing a self-certification saying they read the Governing Docs rather than attending a State-approved certification class presented by a law firm specializing in COA governance. A well-informed owner brings it to the Board's attention that recently amended Statutes now require open, properly-noticed Condominium Board meetings to be held at least once each calendar quarter, and that Director self-certification is no longer an option, class attendance is mandatory and retroactive to sitting Directors. The Board President quickly responds that their Declaration does not include "...as amended from time to time" (Kaufman) language, so NONE of the new clauses apply to them. The owner reminds the President that the amended Statute sections on quarterly meetings and mandatory Director certification classes are procedural and do not affect owners' rights, so they DO apply to their Association. Who is right? Only an attorney can answer that question after closely reviewing the Association's Governing Documents and interpreting the Statute amendments in relation to them. Are you starting to see some of the complications with applying and enforcing the changes? (In my opinion, procedural changes DO apply, even without Kaufman language.) The amended HOA and Condominium Acts contain many more changes than the few I mention in this article. For a comprehensive overview, here is a link to one of the better ones I have read. It was written by Attorney Jeffrey Rembaum of the Firm Kaye Bender Rembaum PL, who is Board Certified in Condominium and Planned Development Law: The Complete 2024 Legislative Guide Affecting Florida’s Community Associations | Rembaum's Association Roundup: https://rembaumsassociationroundup.com And here is a link to downloadable PowerPoint presentations on the 2024 HOA and Condo laws prepared by Attorney Eric Glazer of Glazer & Sachs, PA who is Board Certified in Condominium and Planned Development Law: 2024 HOA-Condo Laws www.thefloridarealestateblog.com All property owners in Condominium buildings and HOA communities should be aware of the significant changes made in Florida Statutes that regulate their Associations. I suggest Boards of Directors consult with the Association's attorney for clarification on applicability and enforcement, then schedule a Board meeting (with the attorney attending) to present the changes to all owners. Since it is now summer and many owners are "up north," it is a good idea to arrange real-time video of the meeting (Zoom or similar platform) to present the changes within the context of your own Governing Docs and encourage owner questions. Announce the meeting well in advance and multiple times in order to promote owner participation. Yes, attorneys' time and legal advice cost money, though this is a very important issue for all HOA and Condominium property owners, and any legal fees are money well-spent. Best practices regarding these changes to the HOA and Condominium Acts will take time to sort out. The Florida legislature has a long history of passing legislation before receiving sufficient input from professionals trained and experienced in the matter being reviewed and debated. As mentioned above, future civil lawsuits may create case law on which to base more reliable application of these new Statute changes. (After all, Kaufman language itself is based on the outcome of a civil lawsuit that became very significant Florida case law.) Until then, your Association's attorney is the only one who can provide dependable interpretation and guidance. Editor's Note: Christopher Carter is NOT an attorney. He does not give legal advice. For interpretation and application to specific circumstances of anything you read in this article, you must speak with a Florida-Licensed attorney. Have a question or comment about anything you see here, if so, visit: www.TheFloridaRealEstateBlog.com < Previous News Next News >

Gas or Electric: Filling-Up a Standard Vehicle VS Charging an Electric Vehicle July 28, 2022 Share A new national survey shows that a quarter of consumers plan to go electric for their next vehicle purchase (a fully electric, not hybrid vehicle). The most common factor for those interested in buying an electric vehicle (77%) is a strong desire to save on fuel costs. However, AAA notes that there are still those who are hesitant to make the switch, due to lingering concerns relating to range, purchase price and availability of public charging options. “Consumers who are fed up with the wild price swings at the pump, may be more willing than ever to make the switch to an electric vehicle,” said Mark Jenkins, Spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Record-high gas prices have brought the cost of owning an EV more in line with a standard gasoline-powered vehicle. Although it may cost more money up front, EVs cost less to charge, maintain and are more efficient.” EV Sales continue to steadily rise within the United States. In 2021 alone (through October), almost 450,000 EVs were sold – an 88% increase year over year. Despite rapid growth, EVs account for less than 1% of light vehicles (cars and trucks) in operation today. However, industry analysts forecast the share of EVs on the road will reach 15% by 2030, and 50% by 2050. Fueling costs can vary greatly for electricity costs and gas prices, depending on vehicle type. AAA determined the cost of charging an EV is 2-4 times less than fueling a gasoline powered vehicle. When comparing two popular EV sedans against popular gasoline powered vehicles, AAA found: EVs Charged at Home – Based on the current national average rate, you’ll spend about 3.5 cents per mile charging at home (around $10 per full charge). EV at Public Charger – You can expect to spend about 7 cents per mile (around $20 per full charge). However, costs at public chargers can vary by location and the type of charger you use. Gas Vehicles – Based on a national average price of $4.66 per gallon, drivers spend about 15 cents per mile (about $70 for a full tank). This is nearly twice as expensive as charging an EV at a public station and about four times more than charging an EV at home. In addition to fuel savings, electric vehicles cost less to maintain, because they don’t have spark plugs, need oil changes or air-filter replacements. However, upon the conclusion of a federally-mandated 100,000 mile vehicle warranty, EV owners may need to cover the cost of a new battery, which ranges in price from $2,500 to over $10,000. Charging Options & Concerns While EV owners do 75% of their charging at home, there are a variety of public options to choose from in the area. Depending upon where you live you will be able to choose from different charging levels that fit your lifestyle and commute time. Level 1, Level 2 and DC Fast Charging Equipment each will impact the amount of time it takes to recharge your vehicle and the cost. Level 1 Charging provides 2-5 miles of range per hour (40 miles for 8 hours of charge), which is adequate for a typical U.S. driver who averages about 30 miles daily. Level 1 chargers can plug directly into a standard household electrical outlet without any modifications. Level 2 Charging can add 25 miles of range per 1 hour (depending on the size of the vehicle and power setting). EV owners commonly install this for home charging, because it can fully charge an EV overnight. As of 2021, over 80% of public EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) ports in the United States are Level 2 chargers. DC Fast Charging equipment provides approximately 100 to 200+ miles of range per 30 minutes of charging. As of 2021, over 15% of public EVSE ports in the U.S. were direct-current fast chargers and availability is forecast to increase each year. Data from the U.S. Department of Energy suggests there are nearly 55,674 charging stations throughout the nation. Most new charging stations have been installed at hotels, car dealerships, office buildings and Federal Government facilities. Even as more Americans lean into electric options, AAA found lingering consumer hesitation surrounding price, range and accessibility to charging. The top EV concerns consumers cited were: • Higher purchase price – 60% • Worries there are not enough places to charge – 60% • Concern about running out of charge when driving – 58% • Unsuitable for long-distance travel – 55% • High cost of battery repair or replacement – 55% • Unable to install a charging station where they live – 31% Driving Range for Electric Vehicles Researchers found that consumers have a reasonably accurate understanding of current electric vehicle range. Six in ten (60%) Americans think electric vehicles can travel between 100 to 350 miles before running out of charge. This aligns with today’s electric vehicle capabilities. These findings suggest that while automakers have made great strides to improve range, consumer anxiety over it remains a barrier to adoption. “The anxiety surrounding range for consumers is often more of a perceived issue, until they learn more about it,” Jenkins continued. “Many EV owners cite range as one of the things that concerned them before purchasing the vehicle. Yet those concerns disappeared as they learned to integrate their electric vehicle into their lives.” Education Can Ease EV Anxiety Having a better understanding of the following aspects of electric vehicle ownership will help consumers overcome their concerns. Today's electric vehicles are more efficient in stop-and-go traffic because the car can recapture energy from braking to charge the battery when decelerating. Charger accessibility has increased the number of public charging stations that have more than tripled in the past five years. While charging infrastructure has improved, more work is needed to support greater consumer adoption in the coming years. In February, the United States Department of Transportation dedicated $5 Billion over 5 years to help States create a network of EV charging stations along designated fuel corridors, as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Though it’s unclear how many charging stations this will add. According to previous AAA Research, most owners of electric vehicles (78%) usually have one or more gas-powered or non-plug-in hybrid vehicles in the household in addition to their electric vehicles. The benefits of using an electric vehicle for shorter commutes while using their gas-powered vehicle for longer trips may go a long way in addressing range anxiety while also highlighting the benefits. Currently, there is only one active Federal Tax Credit for EVs. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) purchased in or after 2010 are eligible for a Federal Income Tax Credit of up to $7,500 for EVs with larger battery capacity eligible for more significant Tax Credits. However, this Credit will phase out to 50% of the total Credit amount once a manufacturer has reached 200,000 units sold. Only two manufacturers, Tesla and General Motors, have completely phased out their Credits. “Simply improving the range of electric vehicles will not be enough to calm consumer anxiety and encourage them to give these vehicles a chance,” said Jenkins. “However, with continuous education on electric vehicle ownership, coupled with more consumers seeing their neighbors convert, the popularity surrounding electric vehicles will grow.” For those interested in learning more or needing help with selecting an electric vehicle, check out the AAA Car Guide. This resource provides consumers with reviews highlighting how many Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are included in the vehicle, along with other criteria and information. All category winners for 2022 are electric, plug-in electric hybrid, or hybrid vehicles. For more information on selecting an electric vehicle, check out the AAA Car Guide at: http://www.aaa.com/carguide/ < Previous News Next News >

Historic Home Re-Opens: The Newly Renovated Home Is Now The Historical Society and Museum Of Dania Beach South Florida Sun Times Feb 27, 2025 The extensive renovation of Dania Beach’s historic 20th century Colonial Revival Nyberg-Swanson house is complete. The re-opening ceremony held this past Tuesday, February 25th, at 5:00 p.m., located at 102 West Dania Beach Boulevard, Dania Beach, Florida, 33004, in the city’s downtown arts district. The historic home has a new and /or improved roof, masonry, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, landscaping, paint, windows and doors, HVAC, floors, and information technology Infrastructure. The $1,245,053.18 renovation cost was covered by funds made available through the American Rescue Plan. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Nyberg-Swanson house once stood at the corner of U.S. 1 and Stirling Road. It served as the multigenerational home of Dania Beach settlers until 1975 when it was adapted as a hair salon. To save the house from destruction in the 1990s, the homeowner and the City of Dania Beach cooperated to relocate the structure to its present location at 102 West Dania Beach Boulevard. The home was the temporary home of city administrative offices and the Dania Beach Chamber of Commerce over the years, while undergoing several repairs. The recent renovation was the most significant and brought the home up to today’s building standards. Historical Significance The Nyberg-Swanson House was constructed in the Park Hill subdivision, a ten-acre tract that had been acquired about 1905 by Jena and Kjerstine Eskilsen, residents of Cook County, Illinois, and representatives of the Dania Beach Brotherhood of America. The Eskilsens apparently did not reside in Dania Beach. As early investors and developers of Dania Beach real estate, they opened Eskilsen’s Addition to Dania Beach ca. 1904 on the north end of Henry Flagler’s Modelo town plan. In August 1911, they sold their ten-acre tract in section three to settlers Charles and Olive Nelson. In May 1912, Charles Nelson hired Civil Engineer Charles Pratt to subdivide the ten acres for residential development. The subdivision lay at the south end of the Dania Beach town plan and west of South Federal Highway. Nelson recorded the plat, named Park Hill, on October 12, 1912. It consisted of nearly 100 building lots and a small central park. Shortly after plating the subdivision, Nelson constructed the masonry dwellings, which originally faced Chicago Avenue, now called Federal Highway. Immediately to the north lay Denmark Street, now Southeast 2 Street. By 1924, three additional masonry houses had been built in the Park Hill subdivision, none of which remain standing. Nelson had immigrated to the United States from Denmark in 1896. He was among the first Scandinavian settlers in Dania Beach. Between 1904 and 1917 he acquired numerous town lots and farm parcels and operated a truck farm. He was elected to the Dania Beach town council, serving one term (1914-1915). His wife, Olive, helped organize the Dania Beach Civic Improvement Club in 1913 and served as its first secretary. In 1917 the Nelsons sold their home to Carl Gustaf and Emmy Nyberg for $4,700 and apparently left the area. Carl Gustaf Nyberg, known popularly as “Gust,” arrived in Dania Beach around 1901 and was joined by Emmy in 1907. Between 1907 and 1911, Gust acquired approximately 100 acres of farmland surrounding Dania Beach and town lots in the city from the Florida East Coast Railway’s Model Land Company and from several early Dania Beach settlers. In 1906, he acquired a two-story house at 125 South Federal Highway in lot 16, block 25 of the Modelo town plan, where they resided for approximately a decade. He became a successful farmer and in 1911 leased a fourteen-foot by sixty-foot lot next to the Florida East Coast Railway tracks. On the site, he built a packing house, which was one of eleven packing houses located on the east side of the tracks between Dania Beach Boulevard and Northwest 2nd Street. He served one term (1912-1913) on the Dania Beach town council. In December 1918, about eighteen months after acquiring the house, Gust was killed when his automobile was struck by a Florida East Coast Railway train at the Stirling Road crossing, just two blocks west of his home. The Ft. Lauderdale Sentinel reported that the car was completely wrecked and Nyberg died within minutes of the crash. Nyberg was survived by his wife and two children, five-year-old Ellen and two-year-old Viola. His estate was appraised at $18,500, including 400 acres of farmland. Emmy continued to operate the truck farm and packing house. About 1921 she married Richard Swanson, a native of Sweden who had immigrated to the United States in 1906 and had been naturalized as a citizen in 1915, about the time of his arrival in Dania Beach. Richard and Emmy Swanson continued to operate the truck farm and packing house. Swanson developed a partnership with Ira C. Williams and operated the farm and packing house under the name Swanson and Williams Company. During the 1920’s, Richard and Emmy speculated in real estate. About 1923, Emmy and her daughter, Ellen Stoinoff, developed Nyberg Apartments, a two-story masonry building located at 107 North Federal Highway in Dania Beach. Ellen managed the property. Richard Swanson opened a real estate business about 1926. Swanson’s success as a farmer and businessman spilled over into politics. In November 1929 he won a seat on the town council and was re-elected several times, serving one-year terms between 1931 and 1935. During this period, Swanson expanded his family interest with Ira Williams, and by 1940 the partners had added a fruit packing house along the railroad tracks. Emmy prospered from her investments and farm operations. She died in May 1945, leaving an estate of $97,229.27, including $35,000 in cash, bonds, and certificates. Richard Swanson and his descendants continued to reside in the dwelling until 1975. The building was then adapted for use as a hair styling salon, a purpose it served until the 1990’s when the property was purchased for the construction of a new commercial building. To save the house from destruction, the owner and the City of Dania Beach cooperated to relocate the structure to its present location. The LaPlant-Adair Company of Boynton Beach, recipient of an award from the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation for its part in preserving Sea Gull Cottage in Palm Beach, moved the Nyberg-Swanson House to its present site in 1994. For several years, the City used it as city administrative offices. In 2000, it became the temporary home of the Greater Dania Beach Chamber of Commerce. In the late 1990’s, a grant from the Florida Bureau of Historic Resources helped pay for the restoration of the exterior; another such grant provided funds for the interior restoration that were completed in July of 2004. In 2025, a major restoration was completed that included a roof, electrical, plumbing, and technology Infrastructure. Architectural Significance The Nyberg-Swanson House is a good, local example of early 20th century Colonial Revival architecture in Dania Beach and Broward County. The Building, a rectangular structure with a hipped-roof, consists of 1-1/2 stories, with a one-story, fully width veranda supported by classical columns. It is unusual in its use of rusticated concrete blocks instead of the more familiar brick or weatherboard characteristic of Colonial Revival architecture. Colonial Revival features include wooden Tuscan columns on the veranda and the small pedimented entrance portico. Other defining features are the classical serliana that separates the foyer from the dining room, the oval-shaped, beveled glass light in the main entrance door, and the delicate spindle balusters of the staircase found in the foyer. The Nyberg-Swanson House is one of two surviving examples of the use of rusticated concrete block construction in the City of Dania Beach. The house is also notable for its large, hipped dormers and for its use of metal shingles as a roofing material, which was popular in South Florida during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The 18+1/1-light windows are another unusual detail, probably derived from the vocabulary of Queen Anne architecture. The next historic Dania Beach structure to undergo renovations will be the Dania Beach Woman’s Club, which is next door to the Nyberg-Swanson house. Previous Next

1st Priority Restoration: Mold and Water Damage Experts That Work Directly With Your Insurance May 5, 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 Restoration 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 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 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 important 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. Some-times, people may develop severe reactions to mold exposure, but cleaning and sanitizing by professionals you can trust. 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 action 12 months a year. From ceiling repair, drywall replacement, structural damage, roof leaks, floor repair, furniture cleaning, mold removal and treatments. 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 with our work." 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 >

One Of The Greatest Voices Of Our Time - Linda Eder Takes the Stage At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Mon Dec 30 2024 19:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

What Do You Think About? A Change in Thinking Always Precedes a Change In Results By Bryan Golden April 7, 2022 Share "Change your thoughts and you change your world." -- Norman Vincent Peale Your mind is constantly filled with thoughts. Are you aware of what you are thinking about? Are your thoughts random or are they directed by you? Do you think about what you can do or what you can't do? Are your thoughts positive or negative? The only thing you have total control over is what you think about. Successful people think about their goals and how to accomplish them. When faced with problems, they think about solutions. Their minds are constantly thinking about where they are going and how to get there. Your mind works 24 hours a day processing your thoughts. Although your mind doesn't care whether your thoughts are positive or negative, the resulting impact on your life is striking. Your mind is a magnet that attracts whatever you think about. Positive thoughts attract positive situations and people, while negative thoughts attract just the opposite. Your thoughts may be much more negative than you realize. You are influenced by your past experiences as well as by the people around you. It's common to accept negative thinking as normal. Over the years, your thoughts may have become more negative than you realize. You accept your progressively negative thoughts as ordinary because this process happens so gradually. Although your mood is directly affected by what you think about, you are rarely taught to direct, monitor, and be aware of your thoughts. Instead, you see all the wrong examples of people around you thinking negatively. A change in thinking always precedes a change in results. In order to make any changes in your life, you must first alter what you think about. Before you can change your thoughts, you must first be aware of what they are. Start making a conscious effort to monitor what you are thinking about. You want to establish a link between your thoughts and your mood. What are you thinking about when you feel good? What are you thinking about when you feel down? Next, decide how you would like to feel and what goals you would like to attain. What do you need to think about in order to accomplish this? Now you are in a position to change your thoughts as needed. Your thought patterns are well ingrained. Persistent effort is required to change them. Don’t worry if at times you revert to your old negative ways of thinking. When you catch yourself regressing, immediately adjust your thoughts to get you back on track. This system isn’t magic. It’s proven and time tested to work. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to readily get support because not enough people understand this process and how it works. However, you may receive a fair amount of criticism from those you share this with. People become comfortable with their negative thinking and don’t believe there is any reason to change. Furthermore, they don’t recognize any cause and effect relationship between their thoughts and what is happening in their lives. It’s difficult, if not impossible to convince these people otherwise. You don’t have to prove anything to anyone. All you need to do is apply this concept to your life and you will see results. Don’t get frustrated. Changing any habit takes time and effort. You control your life through your thoughts. Get started today thinking about what you want to achieve rather than reasons you can’t do it. Your mind works on whatever you think about. Be vigilant to ensure your thoughts are positive. Keep at it in order to reach any destination you desire. Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits." Contact Bryan at Bryan@columnist.com . Or visit: www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com < Previous News Next News >

Parking & Building Maintenance: Hallandale Beach Is Examining Problems & Looking For Solutions By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper July 22, 2021 Share “It is difficult to look at parking as a service, but it is. We have had a parking program in our city for years. It simply was at the beach and at Joe Scavo Park. We are now looking at expanding it." Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper This Monday, we held a Town Hall forum to present the new proposals to our Parking Ordinance. The purpose was to answer questions and concerns over the new citywide proposal. There are various views on these changes. Residents that have been using free on street parking services for many years, obviously, are the most impacted, some living in the residential areas are supportive and other outside of parking zones, have not been vocal. I have been fortunate to travel over the past weeks to both Denver, Utah and Winter Park CO. Each City has unique parking programs that fit their demands. I have to say every city does have one. My son works in downtown Denver and must pay to park a dollar a day as part of their on-street parking. Depending on the neighborhoods, each area has different plans. Denver itself, has an amazing and robust public transit system and whether it is blazing hot in summer or freezing cold in winter, people have grown accustomed and walk to and from their stops. Park City Utah has a program. Their downtown is a mix of all types of housing and on each street, spots are regulated. There are various rates and passes depending on the season. Their program is based on sustainability. They discourage people from coming and planning to park. They would rather like people to park and ride or simply take public transportation. This is a means to reduce their emissions and during special events, they have special rates. It is difficult to look at parking as a service, but it is. We have had a parking program in our City, for years. It simply was at the beach and at Joe Scavo Park and now, we are looking at expanding it. The biggest misinformation that I have heard, was charging for parking at our parks. We have two types of parks. Small neighborhood parks intended for residents to walk to and recreate. We also have large parks that have parking built into their footprint. The plan does not include charging to park in our parks, but to have the surrounding on street parking to be for a fee. This is mainly to stop the storage of cars and commercial vehicles. At the original workshop, we also brought up that we could do special sports event waivers. This program change was conceptually supported, but, not finalized. On-line, you can find out more information. You will get to listen to the commissioner workshop, examine the original documents and there is a good Q and A section. There are many changes we are going through as a City, that are tied to our budget. I wrote about them in my last article. If you want to read any past articles, you can find them on the South Florida Sun Times Newspaper's web-site at: www.southfloridasuntimes.com/news While everyone is still alarmed about the Surfside collapse, we as a City, are here to work with all of our residents. I have received so many calls from residents in regards to the lack of maintenance in their buildings. Our staff has been sending letters and monitoring the 40-year inspections. The process does take time and we can make sure they get done and police the process. It is not simply, a City issue. As separate corporate entities, the responsibility does fall on all of the boards and the residents in every building, this is to ensure that they are abiding by the laws and not cutting corners in order to reduce costs. I also have been hearing plenty of the blame game, when it comes to our permitting process. We are pursuing the hiring of a new building official and replacing clerks that have resigned. These staff losses have delayed the process, but it is not simply our building department. I have spent hours over vacation fielding calls and emails about the department. Typically, we can work through the issues. In many cases though, I have been finding that, the contractors are not filing the proper paperwork. Timelines are being exaggerated in some cases. In one case, I found that a permit was never filed and other permits, had comments that were not addressed. Often the same comment was not addressed multiple times. These all add to delays. I have been asking everyone that has a permit, to please go on-line and review the permits. Our system allows you to put in the permit number and review the permit history and all of the comments. You can simply search, the permit number or click on the permit link and search, go to: www.cohb.org . I will continue sharing this information, as it does have a direct impact of getting this work completed in a timely manner. If it is a City issue, we will address it. If it is a contractor issue, it is up to the owners or boards to follow up. Everyone is human and there is a good chance during this complex process, that items could be missed. It seems that our neighbors, both in Haiti and in Cuba, need our help. I have been following the news and my prayers go out to those that have family and friends in these two countries. While I personally do not believe, our country should be a vehicle for another country’s war, I do believe that we do have, an obligation to help those is harm’s way. I pray that we will all come together, to make sure humanitarian aid, makes it way to these troubled areas. In the past years, the International Committee of the US Conference of Mayors, debated aid to Haiti. We supported the aid, but, there is a reality that the aid does not go to who it is intended for. We will all need to make sure, that we work with our global allies and with the UN, this is to make sure that food and medical necessities, are in fact, getting into to the right hands. 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 >

Artis Fine Arts Opens in Downtown Hollywood Thu Feb 03 2022 05:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Give Comfort Food Classics An Authentic Mexican Twist Fri Mar 22 2024 16:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

We Were Spared By Hurricane Helene Thu Oct 03 2024 16:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Miami Marlins Acquire New Talent: Infielder Connor Norby & Outfielder Kyle Stowers From Baltimore Orioles August 8, 2024 Share The Miami Marlins announced last week that the team has acquired infielder Connor Norby and outfielder Kyle Stowers from the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for left-handed starting pitcher Trevor Rogers. Norby, 24, is rated as the fifth-best prospect in the Orioles system per MLB Pipeline and has slashed .297/.389/.519 (95x320) in 80 games for Triple-A Norfolk in 2024, with 21 doubles, one triple, 16 home runs, and 57 RBI. Among all International League batters, the right-handed hitter ranks sixth in total bases (166), seventh in hits, ninth in AVG, and 10th in OBP. The Brooklyn Park, Minn. native was named a Baltimore Organization All-Star in both 2022 and 2023, owning a career .286/.368/.498 (312x1167) slash line in 372 Minor League games (2021-24) with 90 doubles, nine triples, 69 home runs, and 241 RBI. Selected by Baltimore in the second round (41st overall) in the 2021 First-Year Player Draft out of East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C., Norby made his Major League debut with the Orioles on June 3 at Toronto, going 6x32 (.188) with one double, two home runs and three RBI in nine games over two separate stints. The versatile defender saw all nine of his Major League starts at second base, posting a 1.000 fielding percentage (0 E/18 TC) and playing the majority of his Minor League games at the position (2,275.1 innings). He has also seen time in left field (497.0 innings), right field (316.2 innings), and shortstop (11.0 innings). Stowers (STOW-ers; rhymes with now), 26, has batted .306 (11x36) with four doubles, one home run, and nine RBI in 19 games over two stints with the Orioles this season from May 13-June 19 and July 13-19. The left-handed hitter recorded a hit in eight of his nine starts with Baltimore this season (10x31), appearing in eight games at right field (two starts), seven games at left field (five starts), and two starts as designated hitter. He also owns a .240 AVG (55x229) with 16 doubles, one triple, 18 homers, 55 RBI and 26 walks in 58 games with Triple-A Norfolk in 2024. Selected by Baltimore in the Competitive Balance Round B (71st overall) in the 2019 First-Year Player Draft out of Stanford University in Palo Alto, Calif., Stowers owns a .229 AVG (36x157), eight doubles, one triple, four home runs, and 20 RBI in 67 games over parts of three Major League seasons with the Orioles from 2022-24. The Brooks Robinson Minor League Co-Player of the Year with Baltimore in 2021 (along with Adley Rutschman), Stowers has slashed .260/.356/.514 (387x1489) with 91 doubles, seven triples, 91 home runs, and 299 RBI in 407 games in the Orioles Minor League system over five professional seasons. Rogers, 26, went 2-9 with a 4.53 ERA (53 ER/105.1 IP) in 21 starts with Miami to begin 2024, walking 46 batters against 85 strikeouts. The 6-foot-5 southpaw posted a 4.23 ERA (184 ER/391.1 IP) in 80 starts with the Marlins from 2020-24, including a National League Rookie of the Year runner-up campaign in 2021 that saw him go 7-8 with a 2.64 ERA (39 ER/133.0 IP) in a career-high 25 starts and 157 strikeouts. The Carlsbad, N.M. native was originally selected by Miami 13th overall in the 2017 First-Year Player Draft. #MakeItMiami < Previous News Next News >