Paul Is All: Celebrating The Timeless Magic Of Paul McCartney January 26, 2024 Share Paul Is All is the #1 Paul McCartney Tribute show in the country, Featuring John Babcock. John has been performing as ‘Beatle Paul McCartney’ for more than 25 years. He has toured the U.S. and Canada with the Touring Cast of “Beatlemania” as well as performed in “Legends In Concert” as “The Beatles.” He has performed over 17,000 shows with “The British Invasion” at Walt Disney’s Epcot Center - UK Pavilion from 1997 to 2008!! Today he brings to stages worldwide his portrayal of Paul McCartney as a Solo Artist! He has designed and produced his stage show based on the Legendary Beatles’ Five Decades of concert history right up to his current world tour of 2018. John is a 1st generation “Beatles Fan” who saw the Fab Four’s historic live TV appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show on February 9th, 1964. It was on that evening that the young boy decided ‘That’ is what he wanted to do! John has composed, recorded, and released 11 Original Albums of his own with a 12th Album to be released in 2022. Many of his originals have been recorded at the famous Abbey Road Studios in London. Today he brings to the stage his passion and love for music with a Tribute to the Legendary Sir Paul McCartney this February in Aventura! This unbelievable show is complete with a multimedia presentation with pictures and videos rarely seen. These effects will enhance your concert going experience, making it as authentic as seeing the real “Sir Paul McCartney.” Singing such hits as: "Live And Let Die," "Band On The Run," "Hey Jude," "Coming Up," "Jet," "Let It Be," "Get Back," and many more… John Babcock has been performing as Beatles Paul McCartney for more than 25 years touring the US and Canada with the Cast of Beatlemania as well as performing in Legends in Concert. SHOWING: Friday, February 16th, 2024 - 8:00 p.m. Tickets for this performance are available through Ticketmaster, the official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Secure your seats online at: www.aventuracenter.org - Or by phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Alternatively, visit the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office in person from Wednesday through Saturday, between 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m., and 90 minutes before each show. With ticket prices starting at $46.00, this is an opportunity to witness a musical legend in concert. For those planning their visit, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center offers convenient parking options. FREE parking is available in the lots adjacent to the center, ensuring hassle-free access to this musical celebration. Additionally, valet services are available for most performances at $20 per vehicle, located at the main entrance, offering a seamless arrival experience. Located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center provides a picturesque backdrop for this magical evening. It's more than a venue; it's a canvas upon which the echoes of legendary melodies reverberate, creating an atmosphere of musical bliss and captivating nostalgia. For more information, visit: www.aventuracenter.org - Or by phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. < Previous News Next News >

Witness The Impossible: Magic & Mayhem - LIVE At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center August 29, 2024 Share Do you believe that it’s possible to actually die laughing? If so, Dizzy might be the most dangerous man alive. From the celebrated Apollo Theatre in London’s West End to the iconic Sydney Opera House, Darren “Dizzy” Partridge has been delighting audiences around the globe for more than a decade. An accomplished comedy magician and cirque variety performer, Dizzy is a regular headlining act on the luxury liners of both Celebrity and Norwegian Cruise Lines. He has also been featured as The Trickster in the largest touring magic show in the world, The Illusionists. Dizzy’s wild combination of magic, physical comedy, and theatrical thievery, delivered with mischievous British charm, leaves his audiences both spellbound and gasping for breath. With three different shows to choose from, you are guaranteed an experience they will not believe and will never forget. As a kid growing up in Coventry, England, he had no idea that one day, he would be performing in cirque shows around the world and making a living with magic. Dizzy told us, "I am sometimes asked if I always wanted to be a magician and to be honest, the short answer is no – but I always followed my interests. I started out in martial arts; I just loved the physicality and athleticism it required. My favorite moves were the ones that involved spinning and kicking and jumping, and those movements would soon morph into a love of breakdancing. I taught myself all the power moves, and even though I didn’t have an ounce of rhythm, I loved doing all of the acrobatic tricks. Believe it or not, those tricks landed me a gig as Sir Francis Drake in a stunt show in Majorca, Spain." During this time Dizzy spent several seasons doing backflips and high falls and sword fights with my fellow swashbucklers. When his tenure as a professional pirate eventually came to an end (actually due to a fight with Blackbeard; that’s a whole other story), he wandered into a cirque audition back in London and blew away the casting directors with everything he had learned. As the other applicants were fussing about which music they wanted, he ran up the wall, did a backflip, and when he landed, he had everyone’s attention. As it turns out, in some careers, bouncing off the walls is a good thing. He was hired and moved to Myrtle Beach to work for Le Grand Cirque and was exposed to a myriad of different performers, including some influential magicians (who would eventually become his teachers), and everything just clicked into place. One of those influential magicians was Janna Roukhmanova – she is a world-renowned, multi-discipline cirque performer originally from Moscow, Russia. She also happens to be his wife! Together they are committed to bringing world-class entertainment to as many people as they can. The Aventura Show Magic & Mayhem Live is an extravaganza of magic and laughter that promises to leave audiences mesmerized and roaring with laughter. This one-of-a-kind show brings mind-bending illusions to death-defying acrobatics, the show is a rollercoaster ride of emotions that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. Darren “Dizzy” Partridge, with his mischievous British charm, is the heart and soul of the production. His seamless fusion of magic and physical comedy has earned him a reputation as one of the most entertaining magicians in the business. Watching Dizzy perform is like witnessing a whirlwind of laughter and amazement. He has the uncanny ability to make the impossible seem possible and the possible seem hilariously absurd. Magic & Mayhem Live is not just a magic show; it's a theatrical experience that takes the audience on a journey through the realms of fantasy and wonder. One of the highlights of the show is the mischievous duo of Dizzy and Janna Roukhmanova, whose chemistry and onstage camaraderie are simply electric. Janna's background in cirque performance adds an extra layer of excitement to the magic acts, as she gracefully weaves through the air with her aerial acrobatics, leaving the audience in awe. As the lights dim and the curtain rises, the audience is transported into a world of magic, mayhem, and mystery. The grand stage comes alive with dazzling lights, intricate sets, and heart-pounding music that sets the tone for the jaw-dropping performances to come. But it's not just the individual acts that make this show so special; it's the seamless integration of each act into a cohesive and immersive experience. The transitions between performances are smooth, with each act building upon the excitement of the last. The show's pacing is expertly crafted, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. One of the most thrilling segments of the show is when the audience becomes a part of the magic. Volunteers are invited on stage to participate in mind-reading acts and daring escapology tricks. The audience's reactions range from nervous laughter to stunned silence as they witness the seemingly impossible happen right before their eyes. Magic & Mayhem Live is not just for magic enthusiasts; it's for anyone who appreciates the art of entertainment. The show appeals to audiences of all ages, making it the perfect outing for families, friends, or even a captivating date night. So, if you find yourself yearning for a night of wonder, laughter, and unforgettable memories, don't miss the opportunity to experience Magic & Mayhem Live. This is not just a magic show; it's a celebration of the human spirit, the joy of imagination, and the thrill of being alive. Magic and Mayhem is a family friendly show perfect for the whole family, presented By CIRQUE JOURNEY ENT. will be performing at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Saturday, January 18th, 2025 - 2:00 p.m & Saturday, January 18th, 2025 - 7:00 p.m., seats start at $29.00. Book your tickets now for a night of enchantment that will leave you spellbound and gasping for breath! Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. You can purchase 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. Parking FREE parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. For more information, visit: www.aventuracenter.org < Previous News Next News >

Mutts & Meows For Military July 14, 2022 Share The Humane Society of Broward County is thrilled to announce a new Adoption Program for Military Veterans. As a thank you for their dedicated service Veterans will now be able to Adopt a pet, from the main shelter, one year of age or older for half price! Pets available include Dogs, Cats, Rabbits and even Guinea Pigs on occasion. Studies have shown that people with pets have lower Blood Pressure, fewer Heart Attacks and less illness. They live longer and happier lives. According to Christopher Agostino, HSBC President and CEO, “Veterans have proven to be heroes in the lives of others, now we offer them the opportunity to be a hero for a shelter pet.” All pets are spayed or neutered before leaving the shelter, given Preliminary Vaccinations, a Microchip, Heartworm Test for Dogs seven months and older, Feline Leukemia Test, a 14 Day Health Care Plan courtesy of VCA Animal Hospitals, a bag of Purina ONE Food and of course you are getting a friend for life. Up For Adoption Dexter (ID 657002) may just be one of the most handsome Dogs at the Humane Society of Broward County this week. This blonde Retriever Mix is four years old and 69 pounds of sweetness. He walks great on a leash, is very gentle, knows to sit – especially when a yummy treat is involved and appears to like people of all ages. Can he be part of your family? My name is Atlas (ID A655158) and I’m a 1 year old American Staffordshire Terrier Mix who is full of love! I’m very friendly, I love to be petted, I am extremely well behaved and I come when called. My friends at J.R. Dunn Jewelers have kindly sponsored my Adoption Fee. If I sound like I might be a good fit for you, please fill out a Pre-Adoption Application (unless you have in the past) and come to the shelter to meet me. Mittens (ID A582546) originally came to us from the Florida Keys. Before Hurricane Irma made landfall, the Humane Society of Broward County took in this fellow and his friends at Upper Keys Animal Shelter in Key Largo so they could ride out the storm in a safer place. After the storm passed he stayed at the shelter until he was adopted. Mittens now finds himself back at the shelter because his family is moving and can't take him along. This fellow's favorite thing to do is look out the window. He will sleep in bed with you, he loves kids and paws at you to pet him. Can he go home with you? July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month and the Humane Society of Broward County will be offering 500 FREE Microchips for Pet Owners. The Chips are available in the Shelter’s Vaccine Clinic at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. The Clinic is open Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. no appointment necessary (it is closed daily from 11:40 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.) Microchipping is crucial to your Pet’s well-being. In addition, a collar and ID Tag are a visible sign of identification and should be kept on your pet at all times. That way, if your Dog or Cat wanders from home and is found, you can be reunited quickly. Dolly’s Dream Dolly’s Dream has expanded and now they are underwriting the Adoption Fee of select Bully Breed Dogs. In addition to underwriting the Fee, they will cover the costs for the basic items that the Dog will need to succeed in their new home. This includes a training crate, Sensation harness or No-Pull harness, chew toys, collar, ID Tag, leash, training treat bag and basic dishes. If necessary, they will also cover the cost of obedience classes here at the Humane Society of Broward County. Each week there will be two Dogs featured who are part of the Dolly’s Dream Project and a sign is on their kennel door so potential Adopters know about the offer. For more information about the dogs being featured visit: https://humanebroward.com/dollys-dream/ To meet a Pet at the Humane Society of Broward County please fill out a Pre-Adoption Application at: www.humanebroward.com (unless you have in the past) and stop by. The shelter is located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312 and opens daily at 11:00 a.m. If you have any questions, call: (954) 989-3977 Extension: 6. Can’t Adopt, but want to help? The Dogs at the shelter would really love some delicious treats and durable toys! Order directly from the shelter’s Amazon or Chewy wishlist or pick up a few things in the Pet Boutique located in the shelter lobby to Donate. < Previous News Next News >

Placing legal notices in our newspaper is easy: Notice of Fictitious Name, Dissolution of Marriage, Notice of Administration-Probate, Notice to Creditors-Probate, Notice of Sale, Constructive Service, Notice to Creditors (Summary Administration) Place A Legal Notice Placing legal notices in our newspaper is very simple, no matter the kind of notice. To get started, please print the appropriate form below, complete it and send it back to Cecile@SouthFloridaSunTimes.com . Once we have received the completed form we will contact you to confirm the print date and payment information. For more information, contact our Legal Notice Department at 954-458-0635. Select the form below: Notice of Fictitious Name Dissolution of Marriage Notice of Public Sale Notice To Creditors Place A Towing Auction Notice To place a Towing & S torage Auction Notice in our newspaper, please complete the information below. Once the form is completed, click submit and we will contact you with a the print date(s) and cost. For more information, contact our Legal Notice Department at 954-458-0635. Business Name* Auction Date:* Year* Model* Color* VIN* Your Name* Your Phone Number* Submit Contact Information South Florida Digest Newspapers South Florida Sun Times 1001 North Federal Highway Suite 253 Hallandale Beach, Fl. 33009 954-458-0635 Cecile@SouthFloridaSunTimes.com To view current Legal Notices, Click Here

'Mom & Pops' Can Apply: Applicants May Be Eligible To Receive Up To $2,500 Thu Mar 07 2024 17:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Passing Of Sarge Pickman By Neil Keller Dec 10, 2025 The world of comedy lost a bright light with the recent passing of Steve “Sarge” Pickman at the age of 64 years old. If you ever saw him perform, you would have never forgotten the joy he brought. A fixture in South Florida and beyond, Sarge was a comedian who lived to make people laugh. I moved to south Florida 4.5 years ago and met Sarge a half dozen times, and each conversation left me impressed by his warmth and his ability to bring smiles to everyone around him. Even his last Facebook post, on November 27th, 2025, reflected his spirit: “Wishing a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING to you and your loved ones! See you soon! – SARGE.” That was who he was — always spreading cheer. From Miami Beach to Great Neck Born in 1961 to an Orthodox Jewish mother and an African American father in Miami Beach, Sarge — originally named Stephen — was adopted into a Jewish family in Great Neck, New York. His grandfather, Herman Shane, played a pivotal role in sparking his love of comedy. At Grossinger’s in the Catskills, Herman would tell young Stephen jokes, planting the seeds of a lifelong passion. Sarge’s early years were marked by talent and discipline. From ages 7 to 12, he studied at Juilliard in Manhattan. Later, at South Kent School in Connecticut, he excelled both academically and athletically, playing on the football team’s offensive and defensive lines. At Boston University, he earned the nickname “Sarge” — a moniker that stuck for life. Struggles and Redemption Like many entertainers, Sarge faced personal battles. In the mid-1980’s, drugs and alcohol nearly derailed his life. He candidly admitted to stealing from a friend’s apartment to fuel his addiction. But on December 26, 1990, he made a life-changing decision: to stop drinking and using drugs. That commitment to sobriety became the foundation for his future success. Breaking Into Comedy Sarge’s first paid comedy gig came in 1992 in New York City. His routine was only six minutes long, but he repeated it ten times to fill an hour slot every Sunday. The venue later turned out to be a mafia front under FBI surveillance — and Sarge discovered he had been hired to distract the agents. It was an unusual start, but it didn’t stop him. His career soon intertwined with sports. Working for ABC Wide World of Sports and CBS’s The NFL Today, he received advice from Greg Gumbel: “To be a sportscaster you have to be careful with what you say. You’re very talented — you should be a comedian so you can speak whatever you want.” Sarge took that advice to heart. Sharing the Stage With Legends In 1994, he was asked to replace Jerry Seinfeld at the Baseball Writers’ Association of America dinner. He recalled joking with the crowd about being mistaken for Mets outfielder Cleon Jones — a moment that brought the house down. Soon after, Hall of Famer Bob Gibson invited him to perform at a charity event in Omaha, where Sarge entertained an audience that included George Brett, Sandy Koufax, Steve Carlton, and Willie Mays. Koufax even arranged to sit next to him on the flight back to Los Angeles, intrigued by Sarge’s Jewish identity. From there, his career soared. He performed at Radio City Music Hall, entertained at Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game in 1997, and worked on cruise ships across the globe. He hosted his own Fox Sports Radio show, Sarge in the Foxhole, which aired on Armed Forces Radio, and he visited troops in Iraq three years in a row. He later created and produced Fox’s Best Damn Sports Show Period. Along the way, he opened for icons like Natalie Cole, Aretha Franklin, the Beach Boys, the Four Tops, Taylor Dayne, and Donna Summer. A Life of Joy and Identity Sarge often said he never faced racism or antisemitism in his career. “I am an American. Race should not matter,” he explained. His favorite comedians — Alan King, Gilbert Gottfried, and Robert Klein — reflected his appreciation for sharp wit and cultural humor. In 2007, he married Ania, who converted to Judaism, and together they raised their son Zander, now 17. He authored “Black Boychik” and recently appeared in the film A Brooklyn Love Story, available on Amazon. His website: www.IamSarge.com offers a glimpse into his multifaceted career. Remembering Sarge What made Sarge special wasn’t just his talent, but his outlook. He lived each day to the fullest, and added. “I love where I am right now. I have no agent, a wonderful son. I do not have to travel if I do not want to.” I will miss Sarge deeply. He was always filled with love, laughter, and the ability to brighten any room. His legacy is one of joy — and that is the greatest gift a comedian can leave behind. Neil Keller is a Jewish historian. Visit: www.NeilKeller.com to learn who is Jewish. Steve “Sarge” Pickman & Neil Keller - Photo Credit Alyse Sachs Previous Next

A Theatrical Extravaganza: Magic & Mayhem Live Will Leave You Spellbound and Gasping for Breath Fri Nov 10 2023 17:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hollywood Celebrates Opening Of New Police Headquarters By City of Hollywood Aug 20, 2026 The City Of Hollywood’s New Police Headquarters Is Officially Opening Its Doors, Marking The Completion Of One Of The City’s Largest Investments In Public Safety In Recent Years. Police Department Personnel Have Relocated To The New Headquarters At 401 South Park Road, Hollywood, Florida 33021 And The Facility Is Welcoming Visitors This Week As Part Of A Soft Opening Ahead Of A Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony On Thursday, August 27th, 2026. Funded through the voter-approved 2019 General Obligation Bond (GOB), the new headquarters was designed to provide Hollywood’s Police Department with a modern, secure and resilient facility equipped to meet the community’s public safety needs for decades to come. The State-Of-The-Art building includes updated office and operational space, advanced technology systems, dedicated training areas, evidence storage and emergency operations capabilities. The facility also provides enhanced resources for officers and staff while creating a more efficient and welcoming environment for members of the public conducting business with the Police Department. The new headquarters replaces the Police Department’s longtime facility on Hollywood Boulevard and represents a major step forward in modernizing the City’s public safety infrastructure. Its design takes into account both the department’s current operations and future needs, providing space and technology that can adapt as policing and public safety services evolve. The project is part of the $165 Million General Obligation Bond approved by Hollywood voters in March 2019 to fund improvements to public safety facilities, parks, recreation and cultural facilities, neighborhoods and infrastructure throughout the City. Residents are invited to join City officials and members of the Hollywood Police Department for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 27th, 2026 at the new headquarters, 401 South Park Road, Hollywood, Florida 33021. The celebration will commemorate the completion of the new facility and a major GOB project that will serve Hollywood residents and the Police Department for years to come. Previous Next

State Of The City Of Hallandale Beach Part 3 By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper Jun 19, 2025 The State Of The City Of Hallandale Beach Continued, In The President’s Memo He Believes Private Industry Is Best Suited, When It Comes To Stations. We Certainly Hope So. Community Development Block Grants Have Been Totally Eliminated. These Grants Are Formula Based Depending On The Size Of The City. Big City Means A Big Fund. As A Non-Entitlement City With A Population Under 50,000 Last Year We Received $330,000. These Funds Were Used Partly For The Hepburn Senior Center And For A Smaller Drainage Improvement. Cuts to FEMA from what I could gather are not tied to Preparedness and Disaster Response. They had many other programs that were not purely Emergency Disaster related. They are now focused on their core mission with much of the responsibility passed on to the states. What will be interesting is how States in turn will be able to deal with the added Tax burden. Interestingly, a debate has begun in Florida about cutting Property Taxes. As a note the State of Florida Government does not collect Property Taxes. They receive limited real estate transactional costs. Their biggest revenue? You guessed it, Sales Tax. So you can see why it is so easy for the Governor legislators to make these promises. Here is a brief explanation. The top three ways to generate tax dollars are: Property Tax, Sales Tax and Income tax. Florida does not even have Income tax. Florida is not even in the top ten of Tax Burden states that is why people have flocked here. According to the Tax Foundation it is actually number 4 overall as the lowest Tax Burden state. Wyoming is number 1. Early predictions suggest the state's Sales Tax of 6% would need to be increased well over 12% to fund their needs. Do not be fooled, tourists will not be paying a majority, Tourism accounts for 15% of State Tax Revenues. The increase will be felt by all. I have also heard 22% and up will be needed to fill the cities’ GAP based on the essential services provided. On average 45-60% of cities' budgets go towards Public Safety. We are now rightfully calling this whole push as a “Defund the Police Bill.” How ironic in a Republican controlled state. This issue is one we are already following extremely close along with all of our partners. I will leave you with this: Every city is bound by a cap of 10 Mills. So whether you are homesteaded or not, that's the highest we can set the Tax Rate. One could argue that this cap is actually artificially low taking into consideration the costs of the services we provide. The variation comes with the taxable values. The greater value = greater the tax. Homestead values are capped by 3%. Not a perfect system for new owners or part time owners but loved by full-time residents. There is a reason it is called Save Our Homes. SO again how does this all affect our budget? Surprisingly not much in the current year. But with possible Property Tax cuts, inflation, market changes and Tariffs we will need to take a very long term strategic approach on how we address paying for our services and Infrastructure when it comes to our Millage Rate. For our city we create our budget not expecting anything from the Federal Government or the State. Grants do matter. If there are any available we go after them. Since 2018, we have received over $49 Million in various Grants through the federal and state. These funds allowed us to move more projects forward on our list of needs. How is our Budget? We have a core mission to provide vital essential services. Police, Fire, Emergency Services, Sanitation Services, Water, Wastewater, Stormwater and maintain Public Assets like city roads and Parks. We can provide services directly with our own employees or contract out. In our City we have a combination. Our Budget Team Lead by Budget Director Natasha Mazzie has put together a great brochure on our Budget. We have a $205 Million Dollar projected Budget. $113 of which designated the General Fund whose revenue source is Property Taxes. $55 Million Enterprise fund which includes Sanitation and all Utilities and paid mainly through user Fees. Over $60 Million in projects. We like to take a zero based Budget approach but we have operational obligations when it comes to debt, employee contracts and retirement benefits. And unlike your business we do not get to choose what services to cut, we must deliver them one way or another. Public Safety is and always will be the biggest expenditure. Hallandale Beach Police Department is one of the finest with the best response times nationally. We have been State Accredited for five years and have just gone through our new Five Year Accreditation. We have been recommended once again for Full Accreditation without any recommended findings. We continue to invest in technology. As promised last year. We are on schedule with building out our Crime Prevention Systems. Dig Baby Dig! By this year’s end, we will have every single entrance point covered with License Plate Readers. CCTVs cameras will run the entirety of Hallandale Beach Boulevard which are real time manned at the BSO Center. This year we will continue to add additional manning. Spotshooter sensors will cover the entire city. Promises Made, Kept and Delivered! Fire and EMS are contracted out to BSO. We still pay for all the costs including staffing, facilities and equipment. I had not been a fan of this contract as it did not include an emergency coordinator which used to be the Fire Chief that worked citywide. There were built in cost increases ranging upward to 10% and management of the department runs over $1 Million a year. With Chief Fucci coming on board it has made a vast difference. He brought with him a wealth of field and Budget experience. His leadership has also brought stability and renewed community involvement. We recently found out that BSO is actually having their own difficulty with staff retention and recruitment due to competitive salaries at other agencies. Due to these issues they performed a Salary Compensation Study. In order to compete with Palm Beach and Dade County’s salaries. They have proposed a 20% increase over the next five year contract. At this time, Dr. Earle is proposing a strategic financial plan to smooth out the increase over the next 5 years. The contract still needs to be completed and brought to the commission. The Fire Fee is a means to cover Fire Services, EMS, however, is not covered. Current Revenue from the Fire Fee is $12 Million. This is combined with other revenues including $1.1 Million in collected Ambulance Fees and $2 Million from the State Insurance Pension contributions to help pay for this vital service but our BSO contract is for $24 Million. You heard me, a $9 Million Dollar Gap that falls on the General Fund. At current levels it is an unsustainable burden on our General Fund. 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 email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit me on my Facebook page at: Mayor Joy Cooper. Like! Follow! And share! Previous Next

Audiences Are In For A Treat: This October 4th Music, Comedy And More On Stage At The Parker September 12, 2024 Share Audiences are in for a treat this October when The Parker ushers in an exciting new season of music, comedy and more featuring, among others, funny people David Sedaris and Ms. Pat, music from jazz vocalist Samara Joy, Saxophonist Boney James, R&B Great Billy Ocean, Broadway’s Jeremy Jordan, Jethro Tull's Martin Barre and Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert in the Lillian S. Wells Hall. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Outback Presents bring Ms. Pat: The Hot and Flashy Tour to The Parker on Friday, October 4th at 7:00 p.m. Declared by The Washington Post as "unforgiving and darkly hilarious" and The Huffington Post as "the real hero of sitcom TV," Patricia Williams (a.k.a. Ms. Pat) is a Comedian, Author, Radio Host, Podcaster and Actress who can currently be seen on her critically acclaimed, multiple Emmy®-Nominated Series, The Ms. Pat Show, streaming on BET+ and Paramount+. She recently debuted the weekly court show, Ms. Pat Settles It, on BET, and her hour-long standup special, Y'All Wanna Hear Something Crazy?, directed by Robert Townsend and executive produced by Wanda Sykes, is currently streaming on Netflix. She serves as co-host on The Morning Culture with Big Tigger on V103.5 in Atlanta and hosts her own wildly popular podcast, The Patdown. This event contains adult language or content. Fresh from his Broadway leading role as Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby, Jeremy Jordan comes to The Parker as part of the Red Carpet Series in a concert presented by the Broward Center and Mark Cortale on Sunday, October 6th at 7:00 p.m. The stage, film and TV star earned a 2012 Tony® Award Nomination for Best Leading Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Jack Kelly in Disney's Newsies and a Theatre World Award for his portrayal of Clyde Barrow in Bonnie & Clyde. He has also been seen in Waitress, Rock of Ages, West Side Story, American Son, Finding Neverland and Little Shop of Horrors. On television, he's portrayed Jimmy Collins in NBC's Smash and Winn Schott on the CW series Supergirl. He also starred in the film adaptation of The Last Five Years opposite Anna Kendrick. He made his solo Carnegie Hall debut in October 2019 and performs with his band, Age of Madness. Jordan’s many honors include nominations from the Grammy® Awards, Drama Desk Awards, Drama League Awards, Outer Critics Circle Awards and The Astaire Awards. A VIP package is available. An Evening with David Sedaris, presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Innovation Arts, brings the best-selling humorist and regular National Public Radio contributor to The Parker on Thursday, October 10th at 7:30 p.m. With sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, Sedaris slices through cultural euphemisms and political correctness as a master of satire and one of the most observant writers addressing the human condition today. He recently released A Carnival of Snackery and Pretty Ugly following his previous bestsellers Calypso, Naked, Me Talk Pretty One Day and Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim. Sedaris will be offering a selection of all-new readings and recollections, as well as a Q&A session and book signing. This event contains adult language or content. After having rocked Broadway with more than 10,000 performances in the five-time Tony® Award-Nominated show Rock of Ages, Broadway's Rock of Ages Band takes the stage as part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series on Friday, October 11th at 7:30 p.m. Rock of Ages is known as "Broadway's Best Party," and Broadway's Rock of Ages Band was the force behind the party. Playing the greatest rock hits from the glam metal bands of the '80s, this show delivers songs by Bon Jovi, Whitesnake, Foreigner, Journey, Poison, Twisted Sister, Joan Jett, Styx and Pat Benatar. In addition to performing on Broadway, many of the musicians and lead singers in the band have played with several of these original artists as well. Four-time Grammy® Award Nominee Boney James comes to The Parker as part of the TD Bank Jazz Series on Wednesday, October 16th at 7:30 p.m. After touring as the sax and keyboard player for Morris Day, the Isley Brothers and many others, James launched a solo career that has delivered 18 studio albums, including 2022’s Detour, with a dozen reaching No. 1 on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Album chart. This saxophonist's honors include a Soul Train Award and two NAACP Image Award nominations. This concert is presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and AEG Presents. As part of the Red Carpet Series, Billy Ocean performs on Thursday, October 17th at 7:30 p.m. Britain's top-selling Black recording artist, Ocean has seen his chart-topping hits span the globe, including the U.S., Australia, Germany, Holland and the UK. Winner of the Grammy® Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance (Male) for the single "Love Zone," he also saw his singles "Caribbean Queen" and "Get Outta My Dreams; Get Into My Car" soar to the top of the charts. After a hiatus, this multiple Gold and Platinum recording artist returned with a bang, touring extensively and releasing albums including Because I Love You, Here You Are and One World. A VIP Package is available. Presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Outback Presents, the Girls Gone Bible Live Tour is guaranteed to make audiences laugh and cry at the same time when faith-based podcasters Angela and Arielle take the stage on Friday, October 18th at 7:00 p.m. Girls Gone Bible is the beloved and quickly growing hit podcast that is accepted and loved by any and all people no matter their religion. These two cover all topics from faith to mental health, relationships and life in general, and they bring it all back to Jesus. The Girls Gone Bible ministry has grown rapidly because of the heavy-hitting conversations. Angela and Arielle double as hardcore Jesus freaks and a ridiculous comedic dynamic duo. Celtic Thunder: Odyssey comes to The Parker as part of the Allegro Fort Lauderdale Mosaic Series in a concert presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and AEG Presents on Saturday, October 19th at 8:00 p.m. Not simply a concert, Odyssey weaves music, storytelling and atmospheric stagecraft into a rich tapestry of emotional and musical tones to deliver a powerful theatrical experience that honors Celtic Thunder's rich musical legacy and simultaneously blazes new trails. Through innovative, original arrangements that are emblematic of the ensemble's unique sound, Celtic Thunder invites audiences on a sweeping voyage through the heartlands of traditional Irish music and the rhythmic pulse of contemporary Irish music. Their expert musicianship underscores the music's Irish roots, while the band's versatility ensures that every song, regardless of genre, is treated with the respect and creativity it deserves. Three-time Grammy® Award Winner Samara Joy performs as part of the TD Bank Jazz Series on Wednesday, October 23th at 8:00 p.m. Her Verve Records debut, Linger Awhile, made a case for her addition to the ranks of that label's artists Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday. That release won the Best Jazz Vocal Album at the 2023 Grammy Awards, the same year Joy won the prize for Best New Artist and one year before she took home the award for Best Jazz Performance. With a rich and velvety voice, she has earned millions of likes on TikTok and fans like Anita Baker and Regina King. She has also been seen on Today, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, CBS Mornings and Kelly Clarkson. Jethro Tull's Martin Barre: A Brief History of Tull is presented on Thursday, October 24th at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series. The heart of the legendary Jethro Tull band that sold over 65 million records, this guitarist is known for his historic riffs, power chords and melodic solos. His celebration of Jethro Tull's music features a visual presentation highlighting Tull's 50-year career, with classic hits from albums including Thick as a Brick, Aqualung and Stand Up. Performing with Barre will be Dan Crisp on lead vocals, Alan Thomson on bass and Darby Todd on drums. A VIP package may be added to any ticket. Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert invites audiences to experience Jim Henson and David Bowie's original masterpiece as never before on Sunday, October 27th at 7:00 p.m. at The Parker as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Imagination Series. The full movie will be shown on a massive HD screen accompanied by a combination of live rock band, synth, percussion and fantastic lighting effects. This journey to Goblin City brings beloved characters, epic music and breathtaking visuals from the Labyrinth universe to life in a heartwarming fusion of film and live music. This event is presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and AEG Presents. Also at The Parker this October, The Sinatra Experience (October 5th); Yesterday Once More! A Musical Tribute (October 7th); and MRC Productions/60s Rock ‘n Roll Revival (October 26th). Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street. Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. The Parker is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. The performance season at The Parker is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - And: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222; and in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. < Previous News Next News >

Celebrating Love At First Bite: Valentine’s Day "Foody" Options To Express Your Heartfelt Sentiments Thu Jan 25 2024 17:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Work Life Balance: Floridians Could Tolerate A 44.4 Hour Work Week, Study Reveals May 11, 2023 Share In today's fast-paced world, many of us struggle to find balance between our work lives and personal lives. The demands of our jobs often leave us feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and burnt out. However, with the right strategies and mindset, achieving work-life balance is possible. Achieving work-life balance is crucial for maintaining our Mental and Physical Health. Studies have shown that excessive work hours can lead to Stress, Depression, and burnout, which can negatively impact our overall well being. On the other hand, spending time with family and engaging in hobbies and other leisure activities can increase our happiness and sense of fulfillment. One of the most important steps in achieving work-life balance is prioritizing self-care. This means making time for activities that promote our Physical and Mental Health, such as exercise, meditation, and spending time outdoors. By taking care of ourselves, we are better equipped to handle the demands of our jobs and personal lives. In South Korea, a country known for its strong work ethic, a recent proposal to raise the maximum workweek from 52 to 69 hours has sparked a heated controversy between younger workers and the government over work-life balance. Despite the government's claim that the increase in overtime would provide workers with more freedom, better quality of life, and increased family time, the proposal has faced significant opposition. It prompted Law Firm Bisnar Chase to gauge American workers’ appetite for longer working hours. The firm commissioned QuestionPro to carry out a Survey of 3,000 employees to determine their willingness to work longer hours. Interestingly, the average worker in Florida said they could tolerate a 44.4 hour standard work week. This is 4.4 hours more than the current average work week of 40 hours. Nationally, Americans said they would be prepared to work 44.4 hours. Workers in Delaware have the highest working thresholds, saying they could handle a 47.5 hour work week. On the other end of the scale, Montanan’s would reluctantly accept an increase of 1 hour, taking them up to 41 hours in total. Bisnar Chase sought to delve deeper into people’s attitudes about working hours and more specifically, how they would react to potential government changes to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The Survey results showed that two-thirds of respondents believe that the government has struck an appropriate balance with the current system. When presented with a hypothetical scenario in which they could retire earlier in life by working a longer work week, 60% indicated their willingness to make such a trade-off. Although an increase in the workweek may initially cause shock, some Survey respondents recognized potential benefits. Specifically, 83% cited increased pay as the biggest advantage, with 13% believing that they would be better able to achieve their professional goals, and a small minority of 4% stating that they could improve relationships with their colleagues. However, 45% said the biggest downside to working more hours would be the risk to their Mental and Physical Health. Over one-third would worry about the reduced time they could spend with family & friends, and 12% would be concerned about not being able to pursue hobbies and interests away from work. Finally, the Survey found that a significant portion would strongly oppose any increase in the nation's working hours, with over half stating that they would participate in street protests to demonstrate their opposition to the new Law. "Extending the 40-hour workweek would undoubtedly trigger an intense backlash from employees. Not only would they be forced to spend more time at work, but they would also have less time to devote to their families, hobbies, and other pursuits outside of work. This could lead to increased Stress, burnout, and other Mental Health Issues, ultimately eroding both employee well-being and organizational productivity. Employers must recognize that work-life balance is not a luxury but a necessity, and that respecting employees' time and energy is critical to creating a healthy and sustainable workplace culture" says Brian Chase of Bisnar Chase. < Previous News Next News >