"The Price For Freedom" The First Civil Rights Martyrs Story To Be Filmed In Davie June 30, 2022 Share There are many well-known figures whose names have become synonymous with the Civil Rights Movement of the 20th century. Many that have truly paid “The Price for Freedom”. Martin Luther King Jr. Rosa Parks. Malcolm X. Medgar Evans. Emmett Till. The list sadly goes on. Two names that are not as easily recognized by most are the very first martyrs of the Civil Rights Movement – and the only married couple to be assassinated for the cause. Educator, activists, and Civil Rights Leaders Harry T. Moore and his wife Harriette V. S. Moore. Telling Their Story Top Cat II Productions has begun pre-production of a Mario Van Peebles Film entitled The Price For Freedom, the true story of NAACP organizer Harry T. Moore and his wife Harriette, who were the only husband and wife to give their lives to the movement when a bomb exploded under their bedroom floor killing them as they slept on Christmas evening at 10:30 p.m. in 1951. No one was ever convicted of their murder. The film is directed by Mario Van Peebles (Wu-Tang: An American Saga, Empire, The Last Ship, Sons of Anarchy) who stars as Moore opposite Aisha Jackson, the first Black actor to portray the role of Anna in Frozen on Broadway. Van Peebles’ many film roles include his critically acclaimed performance as another civil rights icon, Malcolm X, in the Oscar® nominated Ali. The cast is rounded out by three-time Emmy® winner Keith David (Greenleaf), Kevin Sorbo (Soul Surfer, God's Not Dead, Faith Under Fire) and Harry Lennix (The Blacklist). The screenplay by John Didonna and Walter T. Shaw is inspired by The Bomb Heard Around the World and explores the mystery behind the Moores’ slayings. Filming will take place for six weeks in Davie, Florida starting late July 2022 in an orange grove setting that strongly resembles the Mims, Florida home in Brevard County where the Moores worked, lived and died. Top Cat II Productions will complete exterior and interior shots with three specially constructed sets that replicate the Moores’ home. “Nineteen years before passage of the Civil Rights Act, Harry T. Moore launched voter registration drives in Florida that increased Black registered voters from 5% to 37%,” noted Van Peebles. “His slogan was ‘A Voteless Citizen is a Voiceless Citizen,’ and that message and his commitment is extremely relevant today as Florida and states across the country enact legislation that could limit Black participation at the polls.” Shaw, who heads Top Cat II Productions with Diana Ross-Shaw, had created a curriculum, written by Erica Fix, about the Moores to be used in Florida schools that now faces some uncertainty due to a new Florida law commonly referred to as the “Stop WOKE Act,” that restricts how racial history and issues may be addressed in classrooms. “Harry and Harriette Moore were Florida school teachers for more than a decade and both were fired due to their Civil Rights Activism,” Shaw said. “It is incomprehensible and infuriating to me that students in Florida classrooms may not be allowed to learn of their history and, indeed, much of the history of the Civil Rights Movement. It underscores the need for this film and I continue to work with a task force to allow this to be part of the curriculum.” Activists & Advocators The Moores were the first true Civil Rights Activists of the modern Civil Rights Era in the State of Florida. Harry organized the first Brevard County Branch of the NAACP in 1934 and became its President. He would later coordinate chapters throughout the State, and in 1941 became President of the Florida Conference of NAACP Branches. In 1944 Moore formed the Florida Progressive Voter's League and became its Executive Director. The league was instrumental in helping register over 100,000 black voters in the State of Florida. As the head of the Florida State Conference of the NAACP, Harry T. Moore led the fight against injustices on behalf of the state's African American population on a number of fronts, including voting rights and the equalization of pay for the state's black teachers. Significantly, Moore also served as a forceful advocate against racial violence and lynching in Florida. His efforts in bringing attention to the lynching of the African American teenager Willie James Howard in 1944 and to the miscarriage of justice in the Groveland Rape case in 1949 are vivid examples of his activism on this front. Moore's vocal criticism of the failures of the criminal justice system—especially the ineptitude and complicity of law enforcement and the racism that permeated the courts—offered a much-needed critique of the tragic intersection of Jim Crow and civil rights violations. The Day They Were Slain At 10:20pm, on a foggy December 25th in 1951, a bomb exploded under their small shotgun style home on the outskirts of Mims, Florida – directly under their bedroom. It was both Christmas day, and Harry and Harriette’s 25th wedding anniversary. Harry T. Moore died on his way to the hospital in Sanford, FL in a car being driven by his brother-in-law George Simms. Harriet’s death came 9 days later, just after saying final goodbyes to her husband at the mortuary. The story of the Moores is one that is equal parts civil rights history, and a personal tale of love, commitment and family. Sadly, it is a story that has for decades receded into dim memory. And yet the voices of these two pioneering leaders in the early struggle for civil rights call out through the decades not to be forgotten. The Price For Freedom has music by Mervyn Warren, music supervision by Linda Cohen and production design by Jerry Blohm. The film has not finalized distribution as pre-production begins. For more information visit: www.ThePriceForFreedom.com or for the Moore Memorial Museum and Park visit: https://www.harryharriettemoore.org/ < Previous News Next News >

Swamp Story: Actual Florida Man Dave Barry Returns Thu Jun 15 2023 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

How Many Florida Condo Associations Are Financially Sound? Thu Oct 26 2023 16:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Peaceful Holiday Season: Let’s All Unite to Support Laws That Protect Innocent Lives By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper November 24, 2022 Share While the election season is finally finishing up, we can now take a pause and pray for a peaceful holiday season. Sadly, this past weekend we once again heard the news of a mass shooting at a night club that celebrates diversity and is known to cater to the LGBTQ community. Ironically this past weekend marked the memorial for individuals in the LGBTQ community killed due to their Identity, Transgender Remembrance Day. The gunman entered in the club killing five and injuring 25 before he was subdued by patrons. It is still not clear if this was a hate crime, but the shooter had an incident before over a bomb threat. What a tragedy for Colorado Springs and the rest of our country. When will these senseless home-grown attacks stop? Colorado does have a new Red Flag Law that allows family members, doctors, and law enforcement to request a judge to remove guns from individuals deemed to be at risk of harming themselves or others. Florida passed a Red Flag Law after the Parkland shooting. Since it was enacted there have been over 8000 individuals banned from owning or purchasing guns. It has been found that these laws are working around the state. This law was a partisan law that then Governor Scott touted as a great example of what can be done to address school violence and could be a blueprint for the nation. After it was passed the NRA filed a lawsuit and went after every Republican that supported it. Even on the national level due to the NRA there has not been an ability to pass this and other common-sense rules. While we have these laws it goes back to the same thing, “If you see something, Say something. “We also need to speak up and support these laws. I have a concealed weapons permit. I have had it for years. I was robbed at gun point in my home years ago. At that time my husband commuted, and I was at home alone weekly with the kids. After that horrific event we decided we both would apply for our concealed weapons permit. It empowered me to feel more secure in our home. If you had asked me before this if I would ever shoot or own a gun, I would have responded no. A few years later we owned a retail franchise with another couple. At that time, we did not have all the online banking systems and quite often had to make cash deposits in drop boxes. At no time was I without my gun. We also went on long boating trips all across the Bahamian Islands. Out at sea on a large boat protection was essential, as you would never know who you may come across. We are responsible gun owners. The super majority of owners are. It is those individuals that are irresponsible, mentally ill, and simply criminals that have caused most of the violence. I have lobbied since 2006 with Mayor Against Illegal Guns, now Everytown For Gun Safety. The genesis of these organization was a result of Congress not reinstating the assault rifle ban of 1994. Without the ban many automatic weapons flooded our streets. It meant now criminals had easy access and our police departments could be out gunned by guns that were meant for war time. To this day I along with many individuals cannot imagine why we need these guns in our streets. And now as a society are seeing the results. Mass shooting. The laws we are trying to enact are common sense. They address the ability to have access to guns which have detachable magazines and many gun loopholes. They address gun registrations of existing assault rifles and firearms. Since it was not reauthorized 37% of police departments reported an increase in shooting and mass fatalities. While many are celebrating the election of a Republican majority, I am asking every Floridian to understand that these laws are critical to persever. Do not be fooled that it is an attack on our right to bear arms. It is all about NRA funded campaigns across the Nation. It is about money and business. Over this holiday let’s all unite to support laws that protect innocent lives. Too many families are sitting around their tables without loved ones. Wishing you and yours a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving! As always, feel free to reach out to me with your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City a better place! I can be reached 24/7/365 at my Office Number: (954) 457-1318. On my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or E-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org < Previous News Next News >

Launch Your SPARK: Panel & Networking Event For Entrepreneurs January 31, 2024 Share The City of Hollywood Office of Communications, Marketing and Economic Development and the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce have partnered to present Launch Your SPARK, a panel discussion on leveraging artificial intelligence and emerging technologies for your business. The event takes place on Thursday, February 22nd at ArtsPark at Young Circle at 1 North Young Circle in Downtown Hollywood from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For tickets and event information, visit: www.sparkhollywoodfl.com SPARK Hollywood has offered more than 130 entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their ventures to expert judges, and awarded more than $41,000 in cash and in-kind prizes to SPARK Businesses since 2017. It provides a platform to access valuable resources available in the City of Hollywood and South Florida while further developing their entrepreneurial skills. The program is presented by the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the City of Hollywood. It is supported by FPL, The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship, Alan B. Levan NSU Broward Center of Innovation, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, The Committee of 100 Hollywood, The Community Service Foundation of Broward County, and Nova Southeastern University. SPARK aims to bridge the gap between investors, businesses and entrepreneurs. SPARK drives innovation by facilitating opportunities for the entrepreneur community that will catapult them forward to achieve their vision of the future. The program takes a first-hand approach for participants to interact and learn from experts. The moderated session will focus on innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship with the goal of discussing the trends, challenges, opportunities, and strategies impacting entrepreneurs. Save The Date SPARK Tank Annual Pitch Competition Applications are currently being accepted by entrepreneurs at any stage of development to pitch their big idea. SPARK Tank ‘quick-pitch competition’ features entrepreneurs and new ventures competing for cash prizes by giving a three-minute presentation of their innovative business proposal to a panel of judges composed of local investors and business professionals. Aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply and ignite their ideas! Finalists will be selected to present during the Annual SPARK Tank Pitch Competition on May 30th. For more information or to register to attend the Pitch Competition, visit: www.sparkhollywoodfl.com < Previous News Next News >

Ann Storck Center To Host 29th Annual Celebrity Chefs Event Thu Feb 20 2025 21:45:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

ZOA Says Reject Nexstar Merger ─ Threatens Media Balance Jewish Connection News Dec 18, 2025 The Zionist Organization Of America (ZOA), The Nation’s Oldest Pro-Israel Organization, Today Called On President Donald J. Trump, Members Of Congress, The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), And The Department Of Justice (DOJ) To Reject The Proposed Merger Between Nexstar Media Group And Tegna Inc. The merger would create the largest television station group in the United States, placing unprecedented control of local broadcast news in the hands of a single corporate entity and violating the media ownership cap established by federal law. Under current federal statute, Congress set a national television ownership cap of 39%, expressly to prevent a single company from dominating the local broadcast landscape. The proposed Nexstar-Tegna merger would have a reach of 80% ─ exceeding that limit by a substantial margin. Any approval of this transaction would constitute a clear violation of congressional intent and undermine the checks and balances designed to protect the mandate of the FCC: localism, diversity of viewpoints, and fair competition. “At a time when media bias is already undermining public trust, the last thing our nation needs is even greater consolidation of the television broadcast industry,” said Morton A. Klein, ZOA National President. Klein said: “Local news remains the most influential source of information for millions of Americans. Handing control of a vast portion of the nation’s local television stations to one politically powerful corporation—or a handful, including ABC, CBS, and NBC—poses a grave threat to the diversity of opinions essential in a free society.” Multiple studies confirm that Americans rely more on local television stations for news than on any other medium. Even as digital platforms expand, local TV remains the most trusted and widely accessed source of daily information, especially in regional and mid-sized markets. This makes local broadcasters uniquely powerful in shaping public opinion and civic engagement. Allowing Nexstar and Tegna to merge would give a single conglomerate extraordinary influence over community-level narratives, political coverage, and what information Americans receive about government policies, elections, and world events. ZOA warns that this merger would further diminish the diversity of perspectives available to the American public. “Democracy thrives when citizens hear many voices,” Klein added. “But if one corporation gains the ability to dictate news content across dozens of states, those voices risk becoming uniform and slanted. “This is particularly dangerous when national networks already display troubling biases, especially regarding Israel, the Middle East, and issues affecting the Jewish community. “ZOA stands firmly against any consolidation that could amplify these biases.” Beyond the severe implications for media plurality, ZOA also warns of significant economic harm to American consumers. Industry analysts predict that the merger would lead to substantial increases in retransmission fees—the payments that cable and satellite providers must make to broadcasters to carry local channels. These higher fees are inevitably passed on to subscribers in the form of higher monthly bills. “Higher cable and satellite bills are the last thing working families need in this economy,” Klein said. Klein noted that President Reagan created the TV ownership cap to protect against national media control and Congress deliberately imposed the 39% ownership cap to preserve localism. Local communities deserve news coverage that reflects local priorities rather than the political and economic interests of a single national corporate owner. “The FCC was created to protect local TV licenses, not to guarantee mega-corporations massive profits through consolidation,” Klein said. ZOA urges federal officials to reaffirm their commitment to a competitive, vibrant, and ideologically diverse media landscape. This requires strict adherence to congressional limits and robust antitrust enforcement by the DOJ and FCC. The ZOA respectfully calls on: • President Trump to publicly oppose the merger and support media diversity by re-affirming his support for the 39% cap. • Congress to demand enforcement of the 39% ownership cap and conduct hearings on the dangers of excessive broadcast consolidation. • The FCC to reject any waiver, reinterpretation, or circumvention of statutory ownership limits. • The DOJ to scrutinize the merger’s antitrust implications and block any transaction that threatens fair competition and consumer welfare. “ZOA stands for truth, fairness, and the protection of democratic values,” Klein said. “This merger endangers all three. America must not allow a single corporation to gain such sweeping control of the news that shapes our national conversation. For the sake of our democracy, this merger must be stopped.” Previous Next

Contestants Shine Bright On Stage - Acceptance, Inclusion Are At Heart Of Pageant That Empowers Girls, Teens With Disabilities South Florida Sun Times Jun 11, 2025 Confidence, beauty and talent shined brighter than the sun when a special group of South Florida teens and young girls graced the stage for the 2025 Miss Arc Broward Pageant, presented by Princess Cruises, at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale. The annual pageant is a celebration of acceptance and dreams come true for remarkable young women with disabilities. While everyone was a winner for braving the spotlight before a cheering audience of more than 800 friends, family and community members, it was 13-year-old Gianna Gallagher of Coral Springs, crowned Miss Arc Broward, and seven-year-old Emily Garcia of Pembroke Pines, crowned Little Miss Arc Broward, who stole the judges’ hearts. Gallagher performed “Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story,” from “Hamilton,” and Garcia danced to “I Love to Read the Bible.” “Whether someone has attended the pageant before or this is their first time, it is impossible to leave untouched by the sense of inclusion and belonging that defines this event,” said Julie Price, Arc Broward CEO. “More than a competition, the Miss Arc Broward pageant is a testament to the resilience, determination and courage of young women who inspire us with their journeys of self-discovery.” Led by event co-chairs Natalie Glusman and Candace Kelley, the Miss Arc Broward Pageant culminates a season of special programs and events that provide a supportive environment through which young girls and teens with disabilities build confidence, self-esteem and lifelong friendships. “The Miss Arc Broward Pageant shows contestants and audience members that anything is possible,” said Glusman, who also served as emcee. “We are so grateful for the support and encouragement of our sponsors, judges, teen ambassadors, cheering squads and community members who recognize the power of acceptance. Together, they help turn dreams into possibilities.” In addition to raising awareness, proceeds from the Miss Arc Broward Pageant benefit Arc Broward's continuum of services that provide transformative opportunities for children and adults with disabilities and other life challenges. Highlights from the pageant included a special appearance by last year’s Little Miss Arc Broward winner, Mikayla Golka. The Florida Panthers hockey fan sparkled on stage with her bedazzled hockey stick and had the audience cheering. Before being crowned the newest Miss Arc Broward, Gallagher responded to the on-stage interview question with a reminder that everyone has their own set of problems to overcome. “Whether it’s my mom’s laundry sitting on the couch or my dad forgetting things or me forgetting to do my homework…we have to keep in mind we all have our problems. We have to stand up and keep going,” she said. In addition to Gallagher and Garcia, this year’s pageant contestants were: from Broward County, Hailey Acevedo, 16, Coral Springs; Halia Allen, 14, Hollywood; Samantha Bellot, 6, Pompano Beach; Zoe Burgess, 16, Coral Springs; Sophie Carriel, 6, Sunrise; Alyssa Custodio, 17, Coral Springs; Nola Schader, 16, Miramar; and Alessandra Soto, 17, Hollywood; and from Palm Beach County, Paritta Darncharnjitt, 17, West Palm Beach and Nevaeh Myers, 16, Jupiter. Pageant contestants were matched with teen ambassadors who serve as mentors and advocates throughout the pageant season. More than 20 teen ambassadors represented a dozen high schools and middle schools across Broward County, including North Broward Preparatory School, St. Thomas Aquinas High School, NSU University School, Pompano Beach High School, Cooper City High School, Indian Ridge Middle School, Forest Glen Middle School, Westglades Middle School, Pembroke Pines Charter High School and more. In addition to presenting sponsor Princess Cruises, the Miss Arc Broward Pageant is generously supported by Amazon, Arc Works Business Advisory Council, Banesco, Casbah Spa & Salon, Chateau Mar Golf Resort, Children’s Medical Services Health Plan, Cintas, Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry, ECR Graphics & Printing, Florida Girls Giving Back, Galleria Fort Lauderdale, Heather Holt Photo, Holland & Knight, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Macaroni Kid, Marsh McLennan Agency, Park Shore Pharmacon, Pompano Elks Club, Publix, Rebel Motor Company, Right Management/Aligned Solutions, Special Needs Group, Stiles, Sunshine Health, The Masucci Family, UKG, Universal Property, Wealth Family Protection Attorneys at Law and Wild, Felice & Partners. For more information or to make a donation, please visit: https://arcbroward.com/miss-arc-broward/ . For information about the vital programs and services Arc Broward provides, visit: https://arcbroward.com - Or call: (954) 746-9400. Previous Next

Ways To Reduce Energy Bills During Summer Heat By Family Features June 20, 2024 Share With temperatures forecasted to run at least 2 degrees higher than historical averages across more than half the country, according to projections from AccuWeather, heat waves may lead to soaring air-conditioning bills this summer. "The summer is when we see homeowners strategizing about how to keep their homes cool and comfortable while sticking to their household budgets," said Michael Williford, HVAC Service Manager at Hiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical. "We work with customers to keep their current HVAC systems running smoothly or upgrade to more efficient systems, which can make a huge difference in their utility bills. In addition, there are many other ways homeowners can keep their energy costs down during the hot summer months." Consider these smart, practical, cost-cutting tips for dialing down your energy bills. Use Appliances During Non-Peak Hours Throughout the course of each day, the demand for electricity moves up and down. During “peak” demand periods – such as summer afternoons when air-conditioning usage is high, for example – the cost of generating electricity is more expensive. There are also daily “off-peak” periods when electricity usage is lower, making the cost of producing electricity less expensive. Time-Of-Use (TOU) Rates provide an incentive to reduce the demand for electricity during “peak” times by allowing customers to pay lower rates for electrical usage during “off-peak” times. Rather than using stoves, ovens and clothing dryers in the afternoon hours, consider doing so early in the morning or late in the evening. FPL’s “peak” hours vary by the time or year, meaning using appliances that heat up your home outside of this timeframe when conventional cooling systems are likely running full throttle can help lower energy costs. FPL’s “Peak” Hours November 1st - March 31st: Monday through Friday between 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., and 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. excluding Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. April 1st – October 31st: Monday through Friday during the hours from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 9:00 p.m., excluding Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. All other hours are considered “off-peak” and therefore more expensive to operate your cooling systems. Service HVAC Systems Regularly To ensure the best cooling performance and efficiency possible, one of the easiest ways to service your home AC system is to change the filter, this will put less stress on the unit. For more complex issues find a licensed contractor to keep your cooling system well - maintained and serviced throughout the year. There are some tasks many homeowners can handle on their own, in addition to changing the filter, keeping the outdoor units free of debris is also helpful. However, bringing in a professional 1-2 times a year for maintenance and to ensure proper function of ductwork and electrical components is also essential. Stop Cooling Empty Rooms One mistake many homeowners make is forgetting to adjust their temperature settings when leaving the house. Whether you're headed to the beach for the weekend or just headed to work for the day, blasting the air conditioner in an empty house can result in unnecessarily high utility bills. Multi-zone, all-electric heat pumps like those from Mitsubishi Electric allow homeowners to set the comfort level and adjust the temperature in each room, so you don't have to waste energy cooling unoccupied rooms. With a smartphone app, you can even adjust the settings remotely. Upgrade Your Systems to an Energy-Saving Heat Pump The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) incentivizes homeowners who opt for energy-efficient HVAC upgrades, including qualified heat pumps, which can boost seasonal energy efficiency ratios and increase efficiencies. There are some pumps that provide more energy-efficient cooling that may equal cost and energy savings as well as a reduced carbon footprint for homeowners. These systems are equipped with inverter or variable-speed technology that allows systems to automatically ramp up or down the required amount of energy depending on the room's capacity. Although annual savings vary, some homeowners can save as much as $1,000 per year by switching to an all-electric heat pump. Fire Up the Grill When temperatures soar, use the grill for cooking to help lower energy usage and save on air-conditioning costs. Alternatively, toaster ovens, air fryers and slow cookers use less energy than larger conventional stoves or ovens. Get creative by cooking a pizza in a chiminea or smoking favorite meats as alternatives to using your oven. Install a Smart Electric Panel Installing a smart electrical panel alongside an all-electric heat pump enables homeowners to monitor and control energy consumption on-site or remotely using a smartphone for better overall efficiency and utility cost savings. Find more ideas to dial down energy usage (and bills) this summer at: http://MitsubishiComfort.com . < Previous News Next News >

Suffering With Sleep Apnea? Rest Assured Medicare Has Many Items Covered October 19, 2023 Share Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs due to tissue relaxation that blocks the airway while we sleep There is no substitute for a good night's sleep. For those with Sleep Apnea, not getting enough sleep can bleed into other areas and impact your health negatively. Finding the right Sleep Apnea treatment can change your life. More than 29 million Americans experience poor sleep quality due to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), but only about 20% of those people have been diagnosed, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The first thing to know about CPAP therapy and Medicare coverage is that the amount you’ll pay varies depending on the type of Medicare coverage you have and whether you have met your deductible. CPAP machines and other accessories are covered under durable medical equipment (DME). When does Medicare cover CPAP machines? Original Medicare Part B will only cover your CPAP therapy devices and accessories if, after a diagnostic sleep study, your prescribing doctor and the CPAP equipment supplier are enrolled in Medicare. Doctors and suppliers enrolled with Medicare agree to accept the Medicare-approved amount for the service or product provided. This is called “accepting assignment.” At times, the Medicare-approved amount may be less than the amount the provider would normally charge, but the provider agrees to accept the set amount as full payment for services. If your doctor or supplier doesn’t agree to be paid by Medicare directly, you’ll be responsible for the total cost of your CPAP supplies at the time of purchase. If you have Medicare Advantage, coverage of DME varies by plan. Your plan may have specific rules about getting approval, selecting a brand, and choosing a supplier that you must follow to get coverage. Reach out to your plan for more information before ordering your CPAP supplies. How does Medicare coverage work for CPAP machines? After you’ve confirmed that your doctor and the supplier are enrolled and you’ve paid the deductible, Medicare Part B will cover a three-month trial of CPAP therapy. This includes the machine and accessories, like tubing, filters, and masks. To qualify for the three-month CPAP therapy trial, you must: • Use a doctor and supplier enrolled with Medicare (accept Medicare as payment). • Be diagnosed with OSA after clinical evaluation in a sleep lab or by an at-home sleep test using a qualifying sleep monitoring device (Type II, III, or IV home sleep device). • Have an Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) or Respiratory Disturbance Index (RDI) of at least 15 events per hour or between five and 14 events per hour, along with other documented symptoms (like excessive daytime sleepiness, Hypertension or Heart Disease). After the three-month trial period, Medicare pays 80% of the Medicare-approved amount to rent the machine for 13 months. You pay the remaining 20% as coinsurance. Medigap plans and other supplemental health insurance plans often cover the 20% copay. Following the 13-month CPAP machine rental, you’ll own it. To qualify for the 13-month CPAP equipment rental (and ultimate purchase), you must: • Complete the three-month trial and provide documentation. • Meet with your doctor in person, and your doctor must document in your medical record that CPAP therapy is helping you and you were compliant (sometime after day 31 of usage but no later than day 91). • You’ll need to use the CPAP machine without interruption throughout the 13-month rental period for Medicare to continue paying each month. If at any point you stop using the machine on a regular basis, Medicare can stop paying the rental, and you’ll need to return the machine to the supplier or pay the remaining balance in full. Does Medicare cover CPAP supplies? Medicare covers accessories, like tubing, filters, humidification chambers, and CPAP masks. The same rules that apply to machines, including travel CPAP machines, apply to these items as well. For Original Medicare to cover your items, the supplier must be enrolled with Medicare, and you’ll be responsible for a 20% copayment. Most supplies are also eligible for regular replacement, so long as the frequency matches the Medicare guidelines. Mouth Guards for Sleep Apnea Medicare will cover mouth guards for Sleep Apnea as DME (durable medical equipment) if your doctor considers it medically necessary. Although, some other treatments might get preferential treatment on Medicare. Mouth guards for Sleep Apnea are plastic devices that fit over the teeth. Also known as mandibular advancement devices, they work by holding your jaw forward, helping to open the airway and reduce snoring and/or improving Sleep Apnea-related breathing issues. Mouth guards can help people with mild to moderate Sleep Apnea get a better night's rest without resorting to CPAP or other breathing devices. If your doctor has diagnosed you with Sleep Apnea, they will likely recommend a mouth guard as part of the treatment plan. Your doctor may also order a sleep study to determine if a mouth guard is necessary. Using a mouth guard for Sleep Apnea can help you enjoy a better night's rest, as it helps keep your airways open during the night. In addition to improved sleep quality, using a mouth guard can also lead to less daytime drowsiness and fatigue, improved cognitive performance, reduced risk of Heart Attack or Stroke, and improved overall health. Your doctor will need to determine if a mouth guard is medically necessary for you, and you may require an overnight sleep study before they can do so. If the test shows that your Sleep Apnea is severe enough that it could cause serious health issues, then your doctor may prescribe a mouth guard as part of your treatment plan. Medicare will then cover the cost of the mouth guard. CPAP machines might be seen as the more reliable option when treating Sleep Apnea, so you need to try that first before getting Medicare approval for a mouth guard or other oral devices. Finally, it's important to note that even if you have Medicare coverage for a mouth guard for Sleep Apnea, you may still need to pay out-of-pocket costs such as copays or coinsurance when purchasing one. You could pay up to 20% of the Medicare-approved amount through Medicare Part B. Not using a mouth guard for Sleep Apnea can have serious consequences. Without proper treatment, your Sleep Apnea can worsen and lead to more severe health problems. Medicare will cover mouth guards for Sleep Apnea if they are deemed medically necessary by your doctor. Using a mouth guard for Sleep Apnea can help improve your sleep quality, reduce daytime fatigue, and may even lower your risk of Stroke or Heart Attack. If you are experiencing any symptoms associated with Sleep Apnea, it is important to speak to your doctor to help find the right treatment for you. < Previous News Next News >

Hadassah Reopens Key Spaces - At Its Youth Villages In Israel Following Extensive Renovations By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, has reopened two facilities at its youth villages in Israel, which serve vulnerable teens and pre-teens, following extensive renovations. The psychological therapy center at Hadassah’s Meir Shfeyah youth village, near Haifa, will now be known as the Ellen Hershkin Therapeutic Center in honor of Hadassah’s 26th national president, who led the organization from 2016 to 2019. At the Hadassah Neurim youth village, near Netanya, the spacious, redesigned emergency shelter will serve as a secure space and command center during emergencies and a leisure and activity space year-round. The renovations were made possible by more than $500,000 from Hadassah’s crisis-response fundraising efforts following the October 7 attacks. The youth villages, which are home to almost 700 students and 200 staff members, are supported by Hadassah’s Youth Aliyah program. Ellen Hershkin Therapeutic Center at Meir Shfeyah Youth Village The Ellen Hershkin Therapeutic Center offers Meir Shfeyah’s residents a welcoming environment where they can meet with social workers and therapists. The renovation is especially timely given the increasing number of residents experiencing trauma due to the October 7th invasion and the subsequent war. While the Center is located on the first floor of the Meir Shfeyah administration building, the renovation encompassed the building’s entire exterior and interior. “I’m humbled to see my name on an edifice that exists solely to be a safe haven for our young residents,” said past Hershkin. “Children are a country’s greatest resource and nurturing them, which Hadassah does in partnership with many, many talented and dedicated professionals, donors and volunteers, is more than a mitzvah. It is holy work.” As part of the ceremony, Hershkin and Inessa Shlomov, the mother of Meir Shfeyah graduate Simon Shlomov, who was killed in February while serving with the IDF, affixed a mezuzah to the entrance to the Center. Emergency Shelter at Hadassah Neurim Youth Village The almost 4,000-square-foot shelter on the campus of Hadassah Neurim has been upgraded and outfitted to protect students and faculty from attack while providing a year-round leisure and activity space. The shelter now offers four large rooms – a Yoga-Pilates-dance studio, a movie theater, a student leadership room and a staff room – as well as two kitchens and two bathrooms. A nurse’s station is available for emergencies and the staff room has been set up to function as a command center in a crisis. During the dedication ceremony, which honored Hadassah Neurim graduates and family members killed on or since October 7th, those assembled lit memorial candles and recited a prayer for fallen IDF soldiers. Previous Next

MLK Echoes Of The Past By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper Jan 28, 2026 This Past Weekend, Cities Across The Country Celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Life And Legacy Who Was Sadly Shot 58 Years Ago. The Same Year Robert Kennedy Was Shot And 5 Years Before In 1963, John F. Kennedy. This Was An Extremely Dark Period In Our Country’s History. All Of These Great Men Worked Tirelessly Towards Justice And Equality. Personally, I Remember These Assassinations. When JFK was shot, I remember playing around with my sister who was in her play pen while my mother ironed shirts for my father and three brothers. While she was standing watching the old black and white TV, we could not afford color, I remember her standing and crying, watching the news. When Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was shot I was in third grade in school when our Principal Mr. Kusgee came in and told our teacher. Mrs. Hersh was a stern teacher and that was the first time I saw her cry. Once again, we walked home to find my mom and her friends around the TV watching Walter Cronkite and crying. The same thing happened when Robert Kennedy was shot. Our parents did not talk a lot about it, but my brothers did around the dinner table. I do remember vividly standing on the train bridge in Trenton watching the Robert J. Kennedy train pass. Hundreds of people stood weeping and waving to show solidarity. These points in history, even as a young child, had a lasting impact on me as a young person. I did not attend a segregated school in Levittown. I know there were areas just like it in the south that were African American, but I was never exposed to racism and bigotry growing up. My best friend and neighbor were a Jewish boy, Andrew. I do not recall what his father’s profession was, but his mom was a hairdresser. I loved going to his house and watching her do hair. Where I grew up was drastically different to what children my own age experienced in South Florida. When I moved to south Florida my eyes were open to a different reality. As recently as 1991 the confederate flag still flew on Young Circle. Thanks to Judge Ken Gottlieb who was a Hollywood Commissioner it was brought down. It was not unusual to see blatant signs of the hate of the past that I thought would certainly be gone. This truly made me question whether I wanted my children to grow up around such hatred. While we are seeing a doubling of antisemitic acts of aggression on Jewish houses of worship, Jewish businesses, and multiple killings of Jewish people simply for being Jewish. We need to be reminded that it is up to every one of us to stand up. These acts are not just the KKK or Alt right from days past we are seeing them from Americans that simply have been indoctrinated with misinformation and simply do not understand history. We are blessed to have a great city. There have been incidents of antisemitism such as graffiti and incidents involving harassment of one of our Rabbis. Our City Commission and our Police Department have a firm commitment to stand up against these acts. It is up to us all now to stand up. If you see something, say something. If you read something online, correct it. My biggest call out is the land of Israel was Judea before it was taken over. It was taken over and then called Palestine. Jews have and should always have the right to their land. The other is antizionist. These means anti Jew plain and simple. Zion was the age-old name for Jerusalem and Israel. There is a famous quote from Yusuf Diya al-Khalidi “Who can challenge the rights of the Jews in Palestine? Good lord, historically it really is your country.” In 1899 the Arab ottomans had invaded and taken over Israel and he was the “Mayor of occupied Jerusalem.” This was before the British came in to occupy Israel. It was not until the Israeli Independence War. Just like the history of the Rights Movement led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. the fight of the Indigenous people of Israel to live in their country, history matters. The correlation between the fight for African American freedom and equality and the shared Judeo-Christian values is a unique bond. Now more than ever it is critical that we continue to unite against hatred. The Neo Nazis, Skinheads, Alt Right and White Supremacists have now partnered with those of the extreme left. We need to not be the quiet majority but the vocal majority for peace, unity, and love. Only love can conquer hate. “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 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