Hallandale Beach Has Many Projects Underway By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper February 28, 2024 Share As promised our City has been fiercely focused on repairing our Infrastructure. Layne Boulevard Water Main Replacement started with digging last week. As the contractors are laying brand new pipe they go in segments at a time, as a coastal city our Groundwater Levels are extremely high. The Water Table changes with the Tides. Unlike northern communities where they can dig large trenches at a time we have different challenges. In order to perform the work dewatering occurs and then the pipes are laid and connected. The holes are closed and then they move on. The first condominium building is the most impacted to date. Their parking is right along where the digging is taking place. We understand that this is inconvenient particularly during the day. Please, as they say pardon our dust. They are moving fairly quickly for how intensive the work is. They will be putting a temporary layer of asphalt down so cars will be able to access parking once they are done in that area. The entire street will have a makeover when the entire project is complete. Another large-scale project has been taking place throughout the CRA west of 14th Avenue. Our City in partnership with the CRA has begun the implementation of installing sidewalks where there are none, completing sidewalks where they were only half done and installing ADA Compliant Crosswalks. The goal is to facilitate safe walking not just for everyone but also those with disabilities. These are vital improvements for our community. Many residents are under a misconception that the entire front of their yard and in the case of corner properties side yards is their property. Any property from the property line to the street is City Property. Residents are required to maintain this part of the property, but it is a City Right Of Way owned by the City. These areas vary in size depending on the layout and size of the property. Over the years residents have landscaped with shrubbery, trees and in some cases hardscapes. In order to install sidewalks, the contractor will be taking out any obstacles that include: trees, fixtures, shrubbery etc. that impedes the ability to install proper sidewalks. Sidewalks just like roadways, bike lanes, stop signs and traffic signals all are required to meet the Uniform Traffic Codes. We know this will impact some residents. I have received two calls already about driveways and trees. In all cases except for trees the property from your property line to the home will not be touched. If a tree’s roots impact the sidewalk they must be cut. If the stability and health of the tree is in question because it will need to be extensively cut the tree will be removed. In the case of removing trees, we will donate a new tree to the property owner if they would like one. We will not plant trees on private property due to liability issues. Driveways will be cut out where the sidewalk will go, and the aprons will remain. The city is covering the cost of removal. The contractors and our Staff Project Managers will be doing everything possible to preserve the areas. Our goal is to return the area to a safe and aesthetic condition. I apologize for any inconvenience during construction but be assured we will take every precaution to make sure the sidewalk is installed with as little impact to your driveway other than the portion that needs to be removed. We understand that installing sidewalks has become an issue for some residents since they have become accustomed to the status quo. In reality there was a lack of foresight years ago when our City was being built to not require sidewalks when homes were constructed. Please note that in addition to the safety of pedestrians these improvements do add to the value and curb appeal to all our homes and neighborhoods. As always feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City better! I can be reached at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or: joycooper@aol.com . Or Facebook: Mayor Joy Cooper. You can always call my office number at: (954) 457-1318. Or Call/Text me at: (954) 632-5700. Working for you! Always have! Always will! < Previous News Next News >

Love, Actually - A Curated Valentine Gift Guide For Style, Comfort & Connection By Merilee Kern, MBA Feb 11, 2026 Valentine’s Day Gifting Doesn’t Have To Default To The Usual Suspects. This Year’s Most Memorable Picks Are Equal Parts Beautiful And Useful: Jewelry That Reads Romantic Without Feeling Fussy, Bags And Accessories Built For Real Life, Cozy Style Upgrades That Get Worn On Repeat, Tech That Makes Everyday Routines Smoother, And Experience-Forward Keepsakes That Turn Moments Into Mementos. Whether You’re Shopping For A Partner, A Best Friend, Or Yourself, This Curated Guide Is Packed With Standout Finds That Feel Intentional, Elevated, And Refreshingly Non-Cookie-Cutter. Food & Beverage Caviar Tins by CAVI ( https://eatcavi.com ) Liberate luxury this February with a taste of the high life. CAVI is redefining luxury this February by bringing caviar out of champagne flutes and onto everyday tables via its specialty line of caviar tins. Designed to feel fun, approachable and indulgent, the brand removes the formality traditionally associated with caviar and invites a new generation to enjoy its creamy, briny and buttery pearls. CAVI emphasizes clarity and education through transparent descriptions and curated tasting kits that make exploration accessible for first-time buyers and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Its lineup includes classic sturgeon varietals alongside modern pairings like kettle chips, encouraging unexpected combinations that feel current and playful. Standout offerings include the Beginner Tasting Kit, featuring salmon roe, Kaluga hybrid, white sturgeon and osetra caviar, as well as a Valentine’s Day Kit curated to elevate date night. Founded by longtime creative partners and food lovers Yossi Bibas and Megan Haddad, CAVI blends sustainably sourced sturgeon caviar with bold branding, vibrant packaging — including its signature turquoise box — and a seamless online experience, complete with free overnight shipping on qualifying orders. Cuvee Rose by Champagne Laurent-Perrier ( https://www.wine.com ) Cuvee Rose by Champagne Laurent-Perrier is the world’s most recognized non-vintage rose champagne, standing out among the crowd for its aromatic intensity, vivacity, freshness and distinctive deep pink color. Made from 100 percent Grand Cru Pinot Noir grapes sourced from 10 different villages, the fruit is meticulously sorted and de-stemmed before entering stainless steel vats, where it undergoes the house’s proprietary maceration technique. This process allows the juice to remain in contact with the skins, extracting the full aromatic richness of the Pinot Noir. This sustainable and vegan rose will not only impress a date with its nose of extraordinary freshness and a wide range of red fruits, but also elevate a romantic dinner with its elegant, dark, bell-shaped bottle and soft pink labels. Drinkers can expect a round-bodied sip that opens with the sensation of freshly picked red berries — including strawberries, raspberries, red currants and black cherries — before finishing with a supple, lingering taste. Established in 1812, the House of Champagne Laurent-Perrier has carried a long tradition of cutting-edge innovation that has helped shape modern Champagne production. The family-run, female-led house remains fiercely independent, with a continued focus on crafting sustainable, elegant champagnes. Clif Family Winery & Farm’s Wine Gift Sets ( https://www.cliffamily.com ) This February, add a splash of romance to your evening with a bottle—or two—from Clif Family Winery & Farm’s wine gift sets. With its Rose Happy Hour Set, customers can enjoy a glass of Clif Family Winery & Farm’s popular Rose of Grenache paired with everything needed for an instant happy hour. Along with the 2024 vintage, the box includes the company’s Organic Tamari Glazed Mixed Nuts and Rose Wine Jelly. For those whose palate prefers a more artistic flair, the Clif Family Winery & Farm x Reyna Noriega Wine Duo offers a curated ensemble that celebrates the fusion of art and wine. The winery first launched its artist series collaboration with Miami-based artist Reyna Noriega several years ago, and she now designs the labels for three Clif Family wines—each showcasing her bold, joyful designs through imagery that uplifts women and underrepresented voices. Founded by Gary Erickson and Kit Crawford, Clif Family Winery & Farm is a B Corp-certified, Napa Valley-based company crafting organically farmed wines and specialty foods. Both gift sets are beautifully packaged and ship nationwide, making it easy to send a little Napa Valley love to anyone on your list or enjoy with your partner or gal pals. Bodacious Baubles Graduating Sterling Silver Lab Diamond Crawler Earrings from La Joya ( https://www.lajoyajewelry.com/ ) Give the gift of modern glam this Valentine’s Day with La Joya’s Graduating Lab Diamond Crawler Earrings. This contemporary statement piece is designed to deliver maximum brilliance with effortless wearability and is crafted in 925 sterling silver. The earrings feature a sleek crawler silhouette set with graduating lab-grown diamonds that increase in size for a fluid, elongated look along the ear. The diamonds are VS clarity, ensuring exceptional sparkle and visual purity. With a total diamond weight in the three-to-four-carat range, the glittering pair creates a high-impact presence without feeling heavy or overdone. Designed to hug the ear comfortably, the crawler style offers a modern alternative to traditional studs or hoops, making them ideal for both everyday wear and elevated occasions. What truly sets these earrings apart is La Joya’s commitment to ethical luxury. The lab-grown diamonds are sustainably created, offering the same optical, chemical and physical properties as mined diamonds—without the environmental or ethical concerns. Compared to similar diamond earrings on the market, La Joya delivers larger, higher-quality stones at a more accessible price point without sacrificing craftsmanship or design. These earrings transition seamlessly from day to night and are perfect for gifting, special events or adding a refined edge to a minimalist jewelry wardrobe. Gold Colored Silicone ‘Buddhist Temple’ Bangle Bracelet from Diamond Veneer Jewelry ( https://diamondveneer.com ) Inspired by authentic Thai temple traditions, the Chunky Gold Silicone Buddhist Temple Bangle Bracelet, sold as singles, blends spiritual meaning with modern styling. The aesthetic look reflects blessings traditionally associated with love, happiness, prosperity, wealth and good health. It’s a great gift for women who appreciate that kind of symbolism. Crafted in smooth, flexible silicone—a synthetic, rubber-like plastic polymer—and with a finish that looks like 18 carat gold metal although it’s not, this bangle is lightweight, comfortable and ideal for daily wear, yoga practice or travel. The bracelet is fashioned in the spirit of original Thai Buddhist temple bracelets. Wear it as a personal talisman or gift it as a symbol of positivity, balance and well-being—a graceful reminder of intention, mindfulness and timeless beauty. Diamond Veneer Travel Jewelry believes that one can have both style and practicality when it comes to their accessories, especially when worn on life’s most memorable journeys. The company offers customers a curated collection of sterling silver, 14 carat gold, stainless steel and designer-inspired jewelry that are a great solution for women who want pretty pieces without the high price tag for travel, everyday wear or special occasions. Tech Gadgets & Gear Pace S Pro Tennis Ball Machine by Pongbot ( https://www.amazon.com ) Help elevate your valentine’s backhand with Pongbot’s Pace S Pro Tennis Ball Machine. This next-generation AI training robot is designed to practice with players, not just feed balls on a preset rhythm. Featured at CES 2026, the Pace S Pro represents a major leap forward in solo tennis training by delivering a realistic, match-style experience. At the heart of the system is its AI-powered Recovery Trigger, which releases the next ball only once the player has returned to a ready position—allowing athletes to train at their natural pace while improving footwork, recovery and consistency. Using ultra-wideband (UWB) tracking with 100-hertz real-time response and up to 10-centimeter accuracy, the machine dynamically adjusts ball timing, placement and intensity. Powered by AI models trained on more than 100,000 real tennis matches, the Pace S Pro offers adaptive drills that scale from committed beginners to competitive players. With over 564 coach-designed drills, customizable speed, spin and placement, full-court coverage and post-session performance reports, it delivers data-driven training typically reserved for professional environments. The system also supports padel mode, multiple court types and more than eight hours of battery life. Nocs Provisions’ Standard Issue Waterproof Binoculars ( https://www.nocsprovisions.com/ ) Want to impress your adventurer partner this Valentine’s Day? Ditch the standard chocolate and flowers for the Standard Issue Waterproof Binoculars by Nocs Provisions. Lightweight and portable, these compact binoculars redefine the accessory by packing Swiss optical engineering into the palm of explorers’ hands. The Standard Issue delivers clear, sharp images with excellent depth and contrast—helping users spot wildlife, scout terrain or take in the finer details of their surroundings. Its rugged, IPX7 waterproof construction stands up to rain, snow and fog, while a non-slip grip ensures the binos stay protected and secure no matter what you—or Mother Nature—throw at them. The Standard Issue also features medical-grade O-ring assembly and is injected with inert nitrogen gas, guaranteeing they’ll never fog up in the field. Weighing just 11.85 ounces, the binoculars easily clip to a pack or slip into a pocket, making them ideal for wherever life takes you. All Nocs Provisions binoculars are built to make snapping photos with your smartphone easy—just line it up and use the Photo Rig smartphone adapter to capture beautiful photos and shoot video directly through the Standard Issue’s multi-coated lenses. FlexiCool Adjustable Pillow by iSense ( https://www.myisense.com/ ) Give the gift of customized comfort with iSense’s FlexiCool Adjustable Pillow. Unlike other companies that salvage factory-floor discards as pillow fill, this pillow is thoughtfully designed with your best night’s sleep in mind. Users can add or remove its cross-cut memory foam to achieve the ideal firmness and height, offering personalized spinal alignment and pressure relief for every sleep style. You can also finally say goodbye to the endless nighttime search for the cold side of the pillow. iSense’s FlexiCool technology combines a cool-to-the-touch, moisture-wicking cover with gel-infused foam that actively regulates temperature around the head, neck and shoulders for faster sleep onset and deeper, more restorative rest. Inside the pillow’s carefully engineered construction are anti-bunching polyester fibers that help maintain consistent loft, while CertiPUR-US certified foam ensures a clean, safe sleep environment that is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites. Generously filled and fully adjustable, the FlexiCool Adjustable Pillow adapts to your comfort needs night after night, delivering personalized support and long-lasting durability. Free shipping and a warranty add even more value—making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a cooler, cleaner and more customizable sleep experience. Available in queen and king sizes. Moment Makers Pop-Up Greeting Cards by Lovepop ( http://www.lovepop.com/ ) Sometimes the card isn’t just the prelude—it’s the main event. Lovepop creates pop-up greeting cards and paper gifts that turn everyday moments into memorable experiences. Using intricate paper engineering and layered illustration, each card opens into a three-dimensional structure that surprises on reveal and often becomes a keepsake long after the occasion has passed. The brand’s assortment extends beyond traditional cards to include light-up designs, sculptural bouquets and bundled paper gifts. Standouts include the Another Trip Around the Sun Light-Up Pop-Up Card, featuring a glowing sun motif, and the Celestial Sky Light-Up Bouquet, a freestanding paper arrangement designed to double as d?cor. Gift bundles, such as the Birthday Hummingbird Pop-Up Card and Suncatcher Bouquet, pair cards with paper suncatchers that interact with natural light. By transforming cards into interactive objects rather than disposable notes, Lovepop taps into a growing demand for tactile, thoughtful gifts that feel personal without requiring customization. Memory Crystal by Beyond Memories ( https://beyond-memories.com/ ) Memory Crystal by Beyond Memories is a refined, modern reimagining of the classic 3D photo crystal, designed to preserve life’s most meaningful moments with striking depth and elegance. A favorite image of a couple, family member, or beloved pet is laser-engraved in true 3D inside a premium K9 optical-grade crystal, creating the effect of a crystallized sculpture suspended within. Using a high-precision, 4K-level laser engraving process, each Memory Crystal captures remarkable detail and dimensional clarity, remaining visually compelling from multiple angles and viewpoints. What truly sets the Memory Crystal apart is its elevated construction and presence. Each piece is engineered to be approximately 50 percent more sturdy than standard 3D crystals, with refined proportions and a diamond-clear polished finish that feels substantial and intentional. It fits seamlessly into sophisticated interiors, whether displayed in a luxury bedroom, living room, or office. When paired with the elegant Premium Memory Light Base, the crystal takes on an entirely new dimension. Soft illumination from below enhances contrast and depth, causing the engraved image to glow and appear to float from within, an effect customers often describe as bringing the memory to life. Thoughtfully presented in a satin-lined gift box, the Memory Crystal is designed for meaningful gifting across life’s most important occasions, including anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Christmas, and memorial tributes. More than decorative, it is a lasting heirloom that transforms a single photograph into an emotionally resonant work of art, offering comfort, connection, and understated luxury that endures well beyond the moment it is given. Popsa’s Photo Books ( https://popsa.com/en-us ) Popsa is the award-winning mobile app that turns photos into beautifully printed Photo Books and other personalized keepsakes—a meaningful Valentine’s Day gift that celebrates cherished memories. Customers can create personalized books, booklets, calendars, prints and more using Popsa’s AI-powered tools, making it quick and easy to preserve favorite images without any design experience or technical know-how. The process is simple and intuitive, with each project coming together in just minutes. Photo Books are Popsa’s signature product and start at $22. They’re crafted with premium paper and can be customized in a variety of sizes and finishes, including elegant gold and silver foil embossing and layflat pages that give every spread a luxurious feel. Photo booklets include 12 to 24 pages, softcover and hardcover photo books range from 20 to 150 pages, and layflat photo books are available in 20- to 80-page formats. Users can personalize every page with colored themes, borders and a selection of fonts for captions and annotations. Popsa’s mission is to help people celebrate and process life’s big—and small—moments by transforming digital photos into meaningful keepsakes. With worldwide delivery to more than 50 countries and sustainable packaging, Popsa helps memories travel wherever love takes them. Merilee Kern, MBA Entrepreneur Leadership Network member Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. As Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee is a prolific business, lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker. She keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at: www.TheLuxeList.com / Instagram: www.Instagram.com/MerileeKern / X: http://www.X.com/MerileeKern / Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial / LinkedIN: www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern . Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way. Previous Next

April Is Autism Acceptance Month: Venue Offers Three Events For The Neuro-diverse Community Thu Apr 04 2024 16:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Dania Beach Breaks Ground October 3, 2024 Share Unprecedented Storm Drainage Project in the SE Neighborhood - Addressing the street flooding challenge is a top priority for the City of Dania Beach. In recent times, the weather has thrown unexpected challenges, highlighting the vulnerability of stormwater drainage systems. Flash floods are no longer exclusive to tropical storms; they occur anytime extremely heavy rainfall and king tides overwhelm the existing Infrastructure. Addressing the street flooding challenge is a top priority for the City of Dania Beach. In recent times, the weather has thrown unexpected challenges, highlighting the vulnerability of stormwater drainage systems. Flash floods are no longer exclusive to tropical storms; they occur anytime extremely heavy rainfall and king tides overwhelm the existing Infrastructure. With funding finally in place, the first phase of the historic Southeast Drainage Project commenced on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. with a groundbreaking ceremony at Southeast Third Street immediately west of Southeast Fifth Avenue, Dania Beach, Florida. “This multi-million-dollar project is the largest public investment our city has ever made,” said Dania Beach Mayor A. J. Ryan IV. “We were able to secure funding from a multitude of sources and the approval from various local, county, state and federal agencies and tribes to finally get started.” The first phase of the new project includes the installation of approximately 5,000 linear feet of solid drainage pipe, a new pump station, 12 injection wells, and swale improvements. The current drainage system in the southeast area of the city, equipped with pumps, is designed to transfer rainwater from streets to nearby mangroves, and is actively engaged, but no longer effective. There are three pump stations in the southeast section that automatically activate depending on the water levels in the system. “Due to the extent of flooding experienced this year, pumping water from the most affected streets to nearby areas is no longer effective, as the drainage system is interconnected, and water flows back into lower-elevation regions in the southeast neighborhood,” said Dincer Ozaydin, Deputy Director and City Engineer, Public Services Department. The project is divided into two geographical phases (north and south). Phase one (north) is expected to be completed in 2026, and phase two (south) completion is yet determined. Phase one will include the following area: Southeast 3rd Street to Southeast 4th Street, Southeast 2nd Avenue to Southeast 5th Avenue. Phase two will include SE 4th Terrace to Southeast 7th Street. Southeast 2nd Avenue to Southeast 5th Avenue. Overall, the project (two phases) cost is $32 million, and it includes funding sources from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection – Resilient Florida Grant in the amount of $3,480,000.00, Broward County – Transportation Surtax funding of $7,212,000.00, and City funding at $21,308.000. The contractor, Ric-Man Construction will place signs and post notices door-to-door prior to any work affecting residents. Dania Beach Project Manager, John Quintero, asks for residents to remain patient during construction. Dania Beach has completed and is working on many other stormwater Infrastructure projects throughout the city and is in the final phase of modeling a stormwater master plan. < Previous News Next News >

The Holidays Arrive Early This Year At Runway 84 - Iconic Italian Restaurant Gets The Ho-Ho-Holiday Party Started Early South Florida Sun Times Nov 26, 2025 Since It First Opened More Than 40 Years Ago, Fort Lauderdale’s Revered Mecca For Italian-American Culinary Greatness, Anthony’s Runway 84, Has Maintained A Well-Earned Reputation As A Prime Destination For Holiday Frivolity. Every Year, The Restaurant Undergoes A Holly Jolly Facelift And Turns Into A Bedecked, Garlanded And Twinkle-Lighted Holiday Wonderland; The Perfect Spot For A Festive Night Out With Friends, Families And Spirited Professional Gatherings. For 2025, The Team Behind It All – Partners Anthony Bruno, Pat Marzano And Marc Falsetto – Decided To Not Just Start The Party Early, But Go Even Bigger Than Before. Rather Than Wait Until Later This Month, The Fa La La’ing Arrived On Tuesday, November 4th, 2025 With A Pull-Out-All-The-Stops Ethos At Play With Close To $50,000 Worth Of Decorations Taking Over The Space. “This has been a challenging year for the food & beverage industry and we have much to be thankful for,” notes Bruno, whose family put the “Anthony” in Anthony’s Runway 84. “We wanted to celebrate and make sure that we created a space for our guests to get in as much holiday cheer as possible before we say goodbye to 2025.” Part and parcel with the decorations, as of Tuesday, December 2nd, Runway 84’s Power Lunch will expand from a Friday only indulgence to a weekday must, and will be offered Tuesday through Friday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 4:00 p.m. The restaurant’s entire dinner menu is served during Power Lunch, overflowing with signature specials and classics, from Classic Meatballs and its delicious tableside Caesar Salad to old-school favorites including Chicken Scarpariello, Rigatoni Cauliflower, Chicken and Veal Parms and its award-winning steak program. Available at lunch only, don’t miss the 10 oz. prime steakhouse burger on a Gran Forno Bakery bun, topped with American cheddar, house made pickles and a truffle sauce with the option to add thick double-cut bacon. With holiday parties and corporate events galore on the horizon, Power Lunch is an ideal daytime destination. Also on Tuesday, December 2nd, Runway 84 will roll out its annual specially-crafted seasonal cocktails. Seasonally-inspired concoctions include a Gingerbread Old Fashioned, Candy Cane Lane Martini and the not-to-be-missed Winter Wonderland, made with Redemption bourbon, RumChata, Frangelico, Kahlua and eggnog liqueur. For those looking to get festive but not lit, the restaurant will also be offering two new non-ABV drinks: an Apple Cider Mule and the Santa Claus Spritz made with fresh blood orange juice, honey/vanilla syrup, lemon juice and sparkling water. As is tradition, every Christmas Eve Runway 84 celebrates with Feast of Seven Fishes menu specials; featuring classics served a la carte such as stuffed Sicilian Peppers, Seafood Salad, Baked Clams and Zuppa di Pesce Fra Diavolo. Runway’s full menu will also be available. Be it lunch, dinner or cocktails at the bar, Runway 84 is Fort Lauderdale’s #1 destination for private events during the holiday season. Inquiries regarding availability should be directed to events@runway84.com. Reservations for table seating are required and can be booked at: www.runway84.com Seating in the bar area is available on a first come, first served basis. Anthony’s Runway 84 is located at 330 West State Road 84, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33315. For more information, visit: www.runway84.com ; Telephone: (954) 467-8484. Follow on Instagram: @Runway84. Previous Next

Make Change Happen: Live the Life You Deserve Thu Nov 11 2021 05:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Parking & The Budget: Balancing a City’s Budget, Is Often a Daunting Task Thu Jun 24 2021 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Rental Crisis Thu Feb 24 2022 05:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The State Of The City Part IV: The Funds Are What Make The City Go Round By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper June 29, 2023 Share This article is part of the State of the City Series. This is Part IV and covers funds outside of the General Fund and also covers infrastructure, Safe Neighborhood Districts, and other utility funds. It is in speech form. The overall budget for 2023 was adopted at 176 million dollars. The other 45% of our funds are comprised of special revenue funds, enterprise funds and other funds. Special funds are a small portion of our budget and include the Golden Isles Safe Neighborhood District and Three Island District. Taxpayers in these districts pay a fee for additional security and cover the full costs of operations. The Police Departments outside services, police training and Law enforcement trust fund are also in the fund category. We have continued to increase training for all officers, which is the key to successful policing. The fund also includes permitting and inspections. Many residents and business owners are not aware that while we charge for this service the revenues go back directly to the department by law to pay for staff. We get a limited-service fee for general fund staff resources. I want to focus on the other two Funds that have a direct impact on two types of infrastructure. Other funds include: Debit service for our Parks Obligation Bond and other capitol debit for city projects. This year we budgeted over 3.6 million in various capital projects. Also, eight hundred thousand in Renewal and Replacement for parks facilities. It is hard to believe but many are already over 5 years old and more. Another threat we were faced with was massive water meter failures. While the meters are under warranty, due to supply chain issues we had to go out to another vendor. Our staff is working to replace all our meters. They are also establishing a new business model. The program will be housed entirely at our water plant. This will make sure all of our water is accounted for; customers’ bills are accurate and there is continuity in service calls. This fund also includes replacement of many vehicles, trucks, and heavy equipment. Most of our vehicles were well beyond their useful life. I have to commend our Commission and thank them for their support to adopt a formal policy of focusing on electrifying our fleets. We adopted an ordinance that requires the purchase of electric vehicles, with flexibility. Staff after a full evaluation found that electric vehicles in the long run are more cost effective. Cheaper to run, maintain and keep their resale value. The added bonus is they help our environment. If staff cannot find electric options, they may purchase hybrid cars, as we did for our police patrols or in the case of heavy equipment like Fire Trucks staff can ask for a waiver of the policy. We are also working to complete the fully electric minibus system which has been championed by Commissioner Butler and our commission. It has taken time to get the buses due to manufacturing demand. Again, no more kicking the can down the road. The second largest and the main fund I want to focus on is our Enterprise Funds. This fund covers the cemetery, sanitation, and all our water wastewater and storm water service, basically, all our underground infrastructure. This fund was budgeted at 48 million dollars. One original stabilization item that was taken off the table was to sell off our Sanitation Division. I have for year’s fought this, as we should be able to run a successful service and generate revenues. This is important for multiple reasons. But let’s face it, there is money in trash or we wouldn't be continually lobbied by industry. Contracting to outside agencies means losing control of it, reducing customer service and ads automatic increases annually to our customers. We are, however, in the process of performing a trash rate restructuring this year. We have not done a study for years. Having staff and this service also provides swift ability to address storm preparation, hurricane clean up and address illegal dumping promptly. Currently we have revamped our bulk pick up, strengthened illegal dumping code enforcement with the addition of staff and partnership with the police department. There are strict rules for only putting out trash the day before any pickup. This in not a new rule in the city, we just did not have staffing to enforce it. As a matter of fact it is the same in every other city. Commissioner Taub and I work jointly to address illegal dumping and create a reward program. If people report dumping and it results in perpetrators getting fined, there is a reward. And yes, we have caught and arrested people. Like I said earlier, we never had the staffing to implement this existing law, so two new code officers are working directly with the Department of Public Works Sanitation Division. These two positions are supported by code enforcement revenues. We continue to expand code enforcement to keep our city clean and safe for everyone. It is especially important, to maintain property values. As always, I am available for your questions, concerns and ideas to help make our City a better place. Please feel free to reach out to me at my Office: (954) 457-1318. On my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or Email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . < Previous News Next News >

Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Broward County Expands Mentorship Opportunities For Students South Florida Sun Times Jun 11, 2026 Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Broward County (BBBSB) Has Reached A Major Milestone In Expanding Youth Mentorship Opportunities Throughout South Florida After Receiving Official District-Wide Partnership Approval From Broward County Public Schools. With the endorsement of The School Board of Broward County and Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn, BBBSB will now be able to expand mentoring opportunities across all schools within the district, removing previous barriers that limited access at certain campuses. The landmark multi-year partnership will remain in effect through October 31st, 2029. The approval significantly strengthens the organization’s ability to connect more students with caring adult mentors through school-based programs focused on academic achievement, emotional well-being, career readiness and personal growth. “This partnership represents a transformative moment for the youth of Broward County,” said Malena Mendez, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County. “With the support of Broward County Public Schools, we can expand access to mentorship and ensure more students have positive role models helping guide them toward brighter futures. Our mission aligns naturally with the district’s commitment to empowering students and helping them achieve success.” BBBSB has maintained longstanding relationships with Broward County schools, students and district employees for years, but this district-wide approval will now allow mentorship programs to expand more efficiently and reach students across campuses throughout Broward County. Through school-based mentoring, students are paired with trusted mentors who provide encouragement, guidance and consistent support in environments where young people already spend much of their time learning and developing. Research continues to demonstrate the positive impact mentorship can have on confidence, attendance, academics and long-term outcomes for youth. Programs available through the partnership include: • Bigs Inspiring Scholastic Success, a school-based mentoring initiative designed to improve grades and classroom behavior for academically at-risk students. • BIG Futures, a college and career readiness initiative that prepares youth for post-secondary success through mentoring, scholarships and workforce development opportunities. • Little Steps, Big Strides, a wellness initiative connecting youth and families with counseling and Mental Health resources. • Mentoring Children of Promise, supporting youth impacted by incarceration within their families. • BIGPride, a mentoring initiative designed to support LGBTQ+ youth through affirming and supportive relationships. • Bigs with Badges, connecting youth with law enforcement officers, firefighters, first responders and military personnel. According to BBBSB’s 2025 Impact Report: • 100% of Littles enrolled in Bigs Inspiring Scholastic Success graduated high school. • Almost 97% of youth participating in Mentoring Children of Promise avoided involvement in the juvenile justice system. • Nearly 94% of youth in Bigs with Badges maintained or improved attitudes toward risky behaviors. The district will support the partnership through ongoing collaboration and data sharing, including attendance records, report cards and student outcome surveys to help track program success. The partnership was championed by BBBSB Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Becker, along with Broward County School Board members Debra Hixon and Nora Rupert and Fort Lauderdale Vice Mayor/Commissioner Ben Sorensen. Rupert, a former Big herself, shared a personal connection to the organization during the school board meeting where the partnership received unanimous approval. “Big Brothers Big Sisters is fantastic,” Rupert said. “We did all sorts of things with our Littles. This is such a great organization, so I’m happy to support it.” Hixon added, “Thank you to Big Brothers Big Sisters for pouring into our students. It’s important and we truly value the partnership.” BBBSB Board Chair Marlene Williams, Vice Chair Lania Rittenhouse and Board Members David Greenberger and Michael Velazquez attended the school board meeting in support of the proposal. To become a mentor or learn more about the organization’s programs, visit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County: https://www.bbbsbroward.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County has offered unprecedented access to resources to empower youth to reach their full potential through meaningful mentoring relationships. These mentoring relationships build self-confidence and emotional well-being, encourage young people to stay on a path to graduation and higher education, and help them establish a plan for a successful future. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County is to ignite the power and promise of youth.  For more information, visit: www.bbbsbroward.org . David Greenberger, Malena Mendez, Marlene Williams, Lania Rittenhouse, Jennifer Becker and Michael Velazquez, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County board members and executive staff Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County’s 2026 High School Big Brother of the Year, Josiah Ferguson with his Little Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County’s 2026 High School Big Sister of the Year, Juliana Pineda with her Little Previous Next

The Aventura Summer Concert Series: Featuring Three Rockin’ Tributes To Yacht Rock, R&B And Rock Royalty April 25, 2024 Share The City of Aventura will add some heat to the summer entertainment schedule with the Aventura Summer Concert Series coming to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center and featuring Three Rockin’ Tributes to Yacht Rock, R&B and Rock Royalty before cooling off with Smooth Bossa Nova Harmonies. The series sets sail with Yacht Rock Gold Experience on Saturday, June 22nd at 8:00 p.m. Four lead singers boasting incredible harmonies are accompanied by a six-piece rhythm section with dancing horns that take audiences back to the late 70’s and early 80’s when music made you feel good and soothed the soul. Like an expertly crafted mixtape of the time, the concert delivers all the favorite hits from the Doobie Brothers, Fleetwood Mac, Steely Dan, Christopher Cross, Kenny Loggins, Little River Band, Ambrosia and Boz Skaggs, among others. The American Soul Band takes audiences on a journey through the decades of Motown, R&B and other iconic soulful music in The Great American Soul Book on Saturday, July 13th at 8:00 p.m. Deanna Carroll, who toured as Dianna Ross in Lady Supreme, is featured in this high-energy party band of seven singers and six musicians. Together they deliver the hits that filled dance floors and concert halls with the music of such chart toppers as The Temptations, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Whitney Houston, Boyz II Men, The Four Tops, The Isley Brothers, Aretha Franklin, The Supremes, Luther Vandross, Sam and Dave, James Brown, Anita Baker, Babyface and Peobo Bryson. The Aventura Summer Concert Series continues with She Will Rock You! starring Stephane Hodgdon on Saturday, August 10th at 8:00 p.m. This dynamic concert pays tribute to iconic performers and bands including Queen, Pat Benatar, Blondie, Stevie Nicks, Led Zeppelin and Heart with a mix of rock mainstays and modern-day favorites. The summer comes to a sizzling end as audiences rock out to hits including “I Love Rock 'n' Roll,” “Black Velvet,” “Somebody to Love,” “Piece of My Heart,” “Johnny B. Goode,” “Barracuda” and, of course, “We Will Rock You!” The acclaimed female vocal group Brazilian Voices will close out the series with AMAZONAS: The Rhythm of Nature on Saturday, September 14th at 8:00 p.m. The performance will highlight the group's noted strengths: a powerful interpretation by female voices, rich Bossa Nova Harmonies and a passionate approach. Brazilian Voices is known for a delightful fluidity and warmth to their singing in a poetic tribute to the Brazilian composers Tom Jobim, Dori Caymy, Sergio Mendes and Marisa Monte, among others. The AMAZONAS concert will portray the strengths of and threats to the Amazon Rainforest. Through music and screen projected images by the Brazilian Artist Ernesto Kunde, the group will spread awareness of the importance of the Amazon Rainforest, the Everglades and the planet's ecosystem. The Brazilian Visual Artist Clara Piquet will exhibit her paintings, which will include themes on Brazilian indigenous communities and the environment, in the lobby. Tickets are on sale now. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222 or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-square-foot, 330-seat waterfront complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. < Previous News Next News >

A True Modern Classic: An Epic Tale of Passion and Redemption Wed Jul 20 2022 04:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)