In Florida, Are REALTORS® Real Estate Agents? By Christopher Carter Special To The South Florida Sun Times February 6, 2025 Share As usual, an answer to this week's headline question is more involved than it may initially seem. Before trying to arrive at one, we first need to define, discuss, and expand on the following terms: • REALTOR® • Agency relationships • State business or professional licensee REALTOR® REALTOR® (all capitals, Registered trademark symbol) can only be used by members of the National Association of REALTORS®. The NAR is a Semi-Voluntary Membership Trade Organization of individuals from all 50 States, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands who hold real estate licenses. The term REALTOR® identifies a person as being a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. Members must hold current State-issued licenses to provide real estate services, and are expected to follow the NAR Code of Ethics in their dealings with the public. I refer to membership as semi-voluntary because if a real estate broker and office are NAR members, all individual licensees (who have independent contractor status) attached to that office are also required to join the local Board of REALTORS® which includes membership in the NAR and the appropriate State Association. Licensees join all 3 organizations (local, State, and National) at the same time, each with separate membership dues. The NAR calls this their "Three-way Agreement:" https://www.nar.realtor/about-nar/policies/the-three-way-agreement It is important to note that in many areas of the US, in order to have access to the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) of available properties, real estate licensees must either be NAR members or pay a significant additional fee for not being one. In this case, semi-voluntary NAR membership seems to become mandatory if a licensee wants to effectively participate in the real estate business. The State issues real estate licenses, though the local NAR affiliate Board establishes who can use the MLS. All member real estate offices and their individual licensees agree to follow the NAR's policies, standards, and rules. The NAR does not set commission amounts, nor do they establish brokerage relationships between its members and sellers or buyers. Both of those are negotiated directly with local brokers who will be providing real estate services. In addition to promoting their Code of Ethics, the NAR has very strict rules regarding the proper use of their trademarked logos and the term REALTOR®, emphasizing that it should not be used as a job description. REALTOR® = member of the NAR The NAR expresses their Vision "To empower REALTORS® as they preserve, protect and advance the right to real property for all." To that end, the NAR supports an extremely powerful political lobbying effort at the National and State levels through their Political Action Committee, funded by members' voluntary contributions. As stated on the NAR website: "The REALTORS® Political Action Committee and other political fundraising are the keys to protecting and promoting the real estate industry." Through continued public use, the term "realtor" (lower case, no trademark symbol) is often used as a job description for people who have real estate licenses and offer their services to sellers and buyers for paid compensation. • The term REALTOR® refers to a real estate licensee who is also a member of the National Association of REALTORS® trade organization and has agreed to follow its policies, standards, and rules. Agency Relationships In all types of businesses, there are agency relationships in which one person (the agent) performs duties and interacts with a third party at the instruction and for the benefit of another (the principal). Agency relationships are fiduciary, meaning the agent must put the principal's interests above her or his own, working for the best possible result and outcome for the principal. An agreement between both parties documents the agent's duties, time period for the relationship, scope of the agent's work, limits of the agent's authority, and compensation to be paid. Agents often have specialized training, knowledge, or skills that help principals accomplish their defined business goals. General examples of agency relationships can be: • Attorney - Client • Financial Advisor - Investor • Employer - Employee Allowed residential real estate brokerage relationships in Florida are: • Transaction Broker - the default, non-fiduciary, non-agency relationship between a seller or buyer and a real estate broker. Transaction Broker licensees do not work for individual sellers or buyers, they work to facilitate the transaction for both parties. Most residential real estate sales in Florida (thought to be well over 90%) are handled under Transaction Broker relationships in which sellers and buyers are referred to as customers, not clients. Here is a direct link to my more detailed discussion on the topic: https://naplessellersagent.com/florida-real-estate-blog/f/floridas-best-kept-real-estate-secret-transaction-brokerage • Single-Agent - a fiduciary, in-writing agency relationship in which the real estate licensee and broker work to promote and protect seller or buyer interests. Under Single-Agent relationships, licensees work for either the seller or the buyer, never both. Sellers and buyers are considered clients, not customers under Single-Agent relationships. • No Brokerage - the real estate licensee and broker have neither of the above relationships with the seller or buyer, therefore no duties of disclosure, confidentiality, or service apply. No Broker means exactly what it says, the seller or buyer is not being represented in any way by the real estate licensee and broker who are involved in the deal, though the No Brokerage licensee still wants to receive a commission. Any agreement and brokerage relationship between real estate licensees and sellers or buyers is with the real estate office's broker, NOT the individual licensee. A Sales Associate may be the direct contact person and do most of the work, though agreements and relationships for real estate services are between a seller or buyer and the office's supervising broker. In residential real estate, the brokerage relationship is documented in either the Listing Agreement with a seller, or the Buyer Broker Agreement with a buyer. Speak with a Florida-licensed real estate attorney for interpretation and application to specific circumstances regarding agency and brokerage relationships. Transaction Broker has been the default relationship in Florida since 2003, though has not required a separate written disclosure to sellers or buyers since July 2008. Transaction Brokerage automatically applies unless and until another relationship (Single-Agent or No Brokerage) is agreed to in writing. • An agent has a fiduciary relationship with another person (the principal), putting that person's business interests above the agent's, following the principal's lawful instructions, negotiating and making decisions promoting the best possible outcome for the principal. Real Estate Licensee All States have laws governing real estate sales and transfers within their borders. These laws include requirements and procedures for obtaining a license to offer real estate services to the public for paid compensation. The Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC), a division of the Department of Business & Professional Regulation, "...was created to protect the public through education and regulation of Real Estate licensees." First-time applicants for Florida real estate licenses must: • Be at least 18 years old and have a Social Security number • Hold a high school diploma or equivalent • Pass a 63-hour pre-license course from a FREC approved provider • Complete an application and pay required fees • Have a background check performed with fingerprints submitted to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) • Pass the State licensing exam After passing the State exam, licensed Sales Associates cannot offer real estate services to the public on their own, they must affiliate with (and work under the supervision of) a Florida-licensed real estate broker. Most new licensees affiliate with broker offices where they can receive guidance on the practical application of what they learned in their pre-license courses. Florida real estate licenses must be renewed every 2 years. During the first renewal cycle after initial licensing, Sales Associates are required to complete a 45-hour post-licensure course. For each subsequent 2-year renewal, licensees must complete a 14-hour Continuing Education course. Renewal CE includes 3 hours of Florida legal updates, 3 hours of Ethics & Business Practices, and 8 hours of specialty training. Even if they are not members of the NAR, Florida licensees receive regular training in Business Ethics. (BTW - the unlicensed practice of real estate is a third-degree felony in Florida.) • States establish requirements for the training, licensing, and conduct of individuals who want to provide real estate services to the public for compensation. Completing periodic Continuing Education is an integral part of maintaining a valid, current real estate license. That's it for this week, a brief introduction to State real estate licensing, brokerage relationships, and use of the term REALTOR®. Let's approach this week's headline question with a few observations: • The term REALTOR® is trademarked and only allowed to be used by dues-paying members of the National Association of REALTORS®. It is often used by the public as a job description ("realtor"). • REALTORS® must hold State-issued real estate licenses, though individual licensees are not required to join the NAR unless they want to (or their brokers/offices require membership, or they want unrestricted access to the local MLS). • In Florida, a licensee or REALTOR® is only acting as a real estate agent when working under a written Single-Agent relationship agreement with a seller or buyer. Transaction Broker (the most common relationship by far) is a non-agency relationship. So our answer is sometimes. A Florida REALTOR® or licensee can only be a real estate agent if she or he is working under a Single-Agent relationship with a seller or buyer. There we are - a brief introduction to the differences, yet connections between REALTORS®, real estate agents, and real estate licensees. All 3 are closely related, and different combinations of them affect how they apply to the practice of real estate in Florida. Keep today's discussion in mind the next time you interview licensees to handle your sale or purchase. Do you want to be a customer...or a client? Editor's Note: Christopher Carter is NOT an attorney. He does not give legal advice. For interpretation and application to specific circumstances of anything you read in this article, you must speak with a Florida-Licensed attorney. Have a question or comment about anything you see here, if so, visit: https://naplessellersagent.com/florida-real-estate-blog < Previous News Next News >

The Hub At Temple Beth Am - It’s A Place Where Children Learn, Teens Connect, Adults Engage, And Families Grow Together Jewish Connection News Oct 23, 2025 Step Onto The Vibrant Campus Of Temple Beth Am, And You’ll Immediately Sense Something New, Something Extraordinary. At The Heart Of It All Is The Hub – A Dynamic, State-Of-The-Art Addition That Redefines What It Means To Build Jewish Community In The 21st Century. Designed With Intention, Innovation, And Inclusivity, The Hub Is More Than A Space – It’s An Experience. From cultural events and social gatherings to recreation and learning, The Hub brings together the essence of Temple Beth Am’s mission: to connect, inspire, and support Jewish life at every stage and age. Walk through The Hub, and you’ll find a seamless blend of functionality and warmth. Inside the Cultural & Activity Center, there’s truly something for everyone. One of the most exciting aspects of The Hub is the Outdoor Cultural Life Center, home to Temple Beth Am’s own Ben Yehuda Street and Zion Square. This space is purpose-built for festivals, lifecycle events, and cultural programming under the South Florida sky. It’s a place where Jewish culture lives and breathes through music, art, celebration, and community interaction. The Performing Arts Center and Chapel is a true gem of The Hub. With flexible seating for up to 550 attendees, this space is uniquely designed to support both the spiritual and cultural life of the congregation. It easily converts into a more intimate chapel setting for 300, allowing for a wide range of uses—from concerts and plays to prayer services and life cycle events. What makes The Hub truly special is not just its facilities, but the spirit it fosters. It’s a place where children learn, teens connect, adults engage, and families grow together. Whether you’re attending a lecture in the reading room, cheering your child on during a basketball game, catching up with a friend over coffee, or celebrating a lifecycle milestone under the stars—it all happens at The Hub. Located at The Janet z”l and Richard Yulman Campus, The Hub is the new center of gravity for Temple Beth Am. It reflects the synagogue’s deep commitment to providing spaces that serve the present while investing in the future of Jewish communal life. Come experience The Hub for yourself. There’s something here for everyone—and everything here is for you. Check out the What's Happening at The Hub: Artist In Residence - Chava Mirel Chava Mirel is a multi-award winning Jewish musician and composer whose voice was recently featured on a Grammy award winning album. Celebrated for her rich, luxurious vocals, lush harmonies, and rhythmic phrasing, Chava is also known for her loving and compassionate presence. Serving as an artist-in-residence and educator at congregations and conferences from coast to coast, she imbues her music and teachings with the universal themes of hope, caring, connection and inclusion. In addition to her prolific portfolio of recordings, Chava performs and records with two other Jewish music powerhouses, Elana Arian and Deborah Sacks Mintz, in their band New Moon Rising. In addition to performing regularly with that band, Chava continues to support dozens of other fellow Jewish artists in recording and performing projects. She serves as Music Director of her home congregation in Seattle, Washington. Kabbalat Shabbat - Friday, November 7th, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. Chava joins our clergy team for a meaningful, interactive Shabbat service. Shabbat Morning Minyan - Saturday, November 8th, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. Don’t miss this special Shabbat morning with Chava. A Shortage of Grandparents with Susan Meier Moss Katz Presented In Partnership With Books & Books Commemorate Kristallnacht at The Hub while hearing from one of Temple Beth Am’s very own, Susan Moss Katz, about her new book, A Shortage of Grandparents. A Shortage of Grandparents is an inspiring story of loss, discovery, and the importance of remembering the past so it may never be forgotten. Perfect for readers of Holocaust memoirs, family histories, and those seeking to understand the lasting effects of history on personal lives. A Shortage of Grandparents is the realization of her dream to unlock the secrets that led to the tragic deaths of her grandparents, Sophie and Berthold Meier, at the hands of the Nazis, and to the tragic early death of her father, Arthur Meier. Her late father’s pictures, letters, postcards, and artifacts were always there—a hidden, untranslated part of her life, serving as a painful foreshadowing of the story of the Meier family and the fates that befell them. A slow, winding trail of events over twenty-five years, beginning with a visit from a French grandmother to her office at Beth David led Susan to Serge Klarsfeld and eventually to Camp de Gurs in 2000. A river cruise in 2017 led to the Stolpersteine in Regensburg which pointed her to Martin Ruch, and, with his help, turned this little old Jewish Bubbie into a detective. The trail led, finally, after seven years of research and writing, into the graphic memoir you will hold in your hands the story of the Meier family of Gengenbach and the woman who finally got the luck and courage to play detective. About Susan Meier Moss Katz: Susan Meier Moss Katz grew up in what she calls the “Reading Railroad” area of Pennsylvania. In her late 20’s, with her husband and son, she moved to Miami, Florida, where she has lived for over 50 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education Degree from Westchester State University and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership Degree from Barry University. She taught elementary education in public schools for six years and then, beginning in 1972 at Temple Beth Am Day School where she also served as the Curriculum Coordinator and the Director of the Writing Program. Beginning in 1994, she became the founding Head of the Gordon Day School at Beth David Congregation. In 2001 she became the Director of Academics at St. Thomas Episcopal Parish School where she worked for 12 years until her retirement in 2013. Children’s writing became her passion in the 1980’s and she founded writing programs in four schools in Miami. The author has a son, Adam from her marriage to her first husband, Lawrence Moss, and two step-daughters, Laura (Brian Weissbart) and Paige, from her marriage to her late second husband, Irwin Katz. She has two grandchildren, Sydney Katz and Tucker Weissbart. Tickets: $46 General Admission 1 Seat and 1 Paperback of A Shortage of Grandparents; $10 General Admission 1 Seat (no book) The Hub is located at: The Hub at The Janet z”l and Richard Yulman Campus at: 5950 North Kendall Drive, Pinecrest, Florida 33156. For more information and event tickets, visit: www.tbam.org - Or call: (305) 540-0700. (Credit: https://www.tbam.org/the-hub/ ) Previous Next

Reliable Air Conditioning Services of South Florida By Felipe Castilla March 2, 2022 Share Putting the Customer Above All Else for 18 Years Reliable Air Conditioning Services of South Florida’s dedication to quality and service is what separates it from other air conditioning companies. For over 18 years they have provided air conditioning services, repairs, sales and installations to clients across South Florida with unrivaled professionalism, care and dedication, building up a company that has stood the test of time. Reggie Bernhardt and Orlando Castro, the founders of Reliable A.C., met at another air conditioning company, where they both realized they wanted to branch off and do something together. They weren’t satisfied with simply installing air conditioners and collecting a paycheck. “With installations you’re just there, you go in you have a mission you have to take out the unit and put in a new one, said Bernhardt. “There’s no time to get to know the client.” Bernhardt and Castro grew their company by building life-long relationships with their clients and focusing on truly exceptional and personalized services that are always prompt and on time. Their same day installations services ensures that no one is left without a working air conditioner because they understand that client comfort is everything. “A person without air conditioning is not a happy person,” Bernhardt said. “So we do everything we can to get people the units they need as soon as they need it, especially in South Florida where it can get really hot in the summertime.” Reliable Air Conditioning Services of South Florida has great contractor relationships with most of the popular AC manufacturers in the industry. That’s how they are able to get the best air conditioning units for the best prices. These brands include Rheem, Bosch, Trane, Carrier, Ruud, York, Goodman, and many others, resulting in dependable, quality units for all of their customers. But they go much further than that. Using their expert, certified technicians they replace existing systems and install a brand new system in the most efficient way possible guaranteeing customer satisfaction each and every time. Another truly remarkable fact about this company is their commitment to innovation. Using advanced germicidal UV light technology, Reliable A.C. sanitizes and purifies the air ducts of all the AC units they install. In fact, they perform regular duct cleaning, which is proven to help alleviate allergies, chronic headaches, respiratory ailments, and even the common cold. This technology protects the customer while making certain the air quality of the unit remains excellent and up to standard. They also perform regularly scheduled AC maintenance and repairs. But what sets them apart from other air conditioning companies is their commitment to their customer. When an AC unit breaks down, customers are given a label warranty. So, whether the repair is scheduled or an absolute emergency, you can depend on Reliable A.C. to get your unit started again immediately, effectively and in a timely fashion. “It’s not just about going over there and installing the unit or getting the money,” Bernhardt said. “Even if we’re not making money going back we go and resolve any issue because we want long term relationships with our client's.” If a customer cannot afford a new unit, that is not a problem. Reliable A.C. has a facility where they host many refurbished air conditioning units for purchase at competitive prices. But their commitment to customer satisfaction does not end there. They provide same-day installation services on any unit that is sold to a customer. “Anybody at any time when someone needs to come over we’ll gladly show them our inventory,” Bernhardt said. “We give same day service be-cause we understand customers just don’t want to wait.” If you decide you need a new air conditioning unit in your home or commercial office, you call Reliable A.C. and they will give you an estimate of pricing completely free. If you choose to proceed with their services you can expect a quick turn around for a brand new or refurbished unit. Bernhardt and Castro have certified and experienced technicians providing air conditioning service, air conditioning repairs, air conditioning sales and installations in Aventura, Sunny Isles, North Miami, Miami Beach, Bal Harbour, Hallandale, Hollywood and all of the surrounding cities. Their main focus and passion, however, is service and troubleshooting. “I love to do service because when you do service you get to really speak with the clients,” Bernhardt said. “With service work you get that interaction with the client and as well as being able to qualify the client for what you think they need and don’t need.” Bernhardt and Castro’s passion for their clients stems from their 18 years of cultivating and nurturing relationships with people across South Florida. When they started Reliable Air Conditioning Services of South Florida, they were heavily reliant on word-of-mouth marketing to support their new business. It was due to this reliance on the good word of their customers that they learned the value of doing right by the people they were servicing. As the business grew, the clients they depended on in the beginning stayed with them and their loyalty has motivated Reliable A.C. to stay true to their principles of customer satisfaction. “We have the same clients calling us back 10, 12 years later just because they want to change their unit for something more efficient,” Bernhardt said. “We’ve had clients that we’ve known for 18 years that love us because we’re not just in and out. Customer service is number one.” You can contact them at: (954)629-4232 or visit them online at: www.reliableairconditioningfl.com for more information. < Previous News Next News >

Exploration of Human Connection, January 15th, Free at Nova University Library By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 LoveJewish.org in association with NSU Florida’s Alvin Sherman Library and the University of Miami Sue and Leonard Miller Center will present a FREE reading of award-winning playwright Debbie Slevin’s critically acclaimed play Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage. The reading will take place at 1:00 pm on January 15th in the Sherman Library. This ‘dramedy’, directed by Avi Hoffman, is a witty and compelling exploration of human connection amid uproarious chaos. It follows a diverse cast of travelers, each wrestling with personal challenges, as they are stranded at Gate B23 at Palm Beach International Airport whilst enduring an increasingly prolonged flight delay. The play promises to deliver a unique theatrical experience that blends humor, tension, and profound human insights. The reading of Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage will feature some of South Florida’s most prominent actors, including Brandon Campbell, Rayner Gabriel, Harriet Oser, Emma Garcia Seeger, Devra Seidel, Barbara Sloan, and Troy Stanley. Dave Corey will take on the role of the progressively disturbed Gate Attendant. Debbie Slevin, an award-winning essayist and author is a writer, producer/director, and teacher. She conceived and co-produced The Apron Strings Project in Riverhead, NY, produced and directed The Last Five Years at Guild Hall in East Hampton, and the first NYC revival of Songs for a New World. Her play Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage was a best-selling selection of NYC International Fringe Festival and Manhattan Repertory Theater's Winterfest. Now a well-read blogger for Huffpo50, Debbie’s writing has also appeared in Essence Magazine, Woman’s World, and Reform Judaism. She was also a staff writer for the Jewish Standard. Tickets for Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage are FREE. Reservations can be made online at: www.YILoveJewish.org/Events - or at The Alvin Sherman Library at Nova Southeastern University, located at 3100 Ray Ferrero Jr. Boulevard, Davie, Florida 33314. Previous Next

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Biden Administration's Digital Dollar: Could This Possible Change Have Ramifications To Your Retirement June 29, 2023 Share The Biden Administration has recently proposed the implementation of a digital dollar (U.S. Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) as part of their efforts to modernize the financial system. While this initiative may seem like a positive step forward, it is crucial to examine how the introduction of a digital currency could potentially impact your retirement savings. The implications of the digital dollar and how it might affect your ability to maintain your standard of living during retirement need to be taken seriously as it could cost us all in the future. Understanding The Digital Dollar The concept of a digital dollar entails the creation of a government-backed virtual currency that operates on a decentralized network. This digital currency would be stored electronically and could potentially replace physical cash. The key objective behind this proposal is to enhance financial accessibility and efficiency while reducing transaction costs. However, the transition to a digital dollar could have far-reaching consequences for your retirement savings. Devaluation Concerns One of the primary concerns associated with the introduction of a digital dollar is the potential devaluation of savings. As the government gains greater control over the digital currency, it can manipulate the money supply more easily. This increased control could result in inflationary pressures, leading to a decrease in the value of your retirement savings over time. The erosion of purchasing power can have a detrimental impact on your ability to maintain your desired lifestyle during retirement. Security And Privacy Considerations Another critical aspect to ponder is the security and privacy of a digital dollar. While proponents argue that a digital currency can offer enhanced security features, it also raises concerns about privacy breaches and cyber threats. With all transactions being tracked digitally, it becomes easier for authorities to monitor and regulate financial activities. The potential compromise of personal financial information could have serious implications for your retirement savings, including identity theft and unauthorized access to funds. Impact on Traditional Banking The introduction of a digital dollar may also disrupt the traditional banking system. As the use of physical cash diminishes, banks may face challenges in adapting their infrastructure to support a digital currency. This transition could lead to additional fees or service charges imposed on customers, affecting your retirement savings through higher banking costs. Moreover, the displacement of traditional banks by digital currency platforms could limit your options for managing and investing your retirement funds. Technological Barriers And Inclusion While digitalization can offer numerous advantages, it is essential to consider the potential technological barriers that may arise with the introduction of a digital dollar. Not all individuals may have access to the necessary technology or possess the required digital literacy skills to navigate a digital currency system. This lack of inclusivity could disproportionately affect older adults, potentially hampering their ability to effectively manage their retirement savings. Mitigating The Risks While the implications of a digital dollar on your retirement savings may seem concerning, there are steps you can take to mitigate the associated risks. Diversifying your retirement portfolio by including assets that historically hedge against inflation, such as real estate or commodities, can help protect the value of your savings. Additionally, staying informed and seeking advice from financial experts can aid in making informed decisions about investment strategies and retirement planning amidst the changing financial landscape. The Biden Administration's proposal to introduce a digital dollar reflects ongoing efforts to modernize the financial system. However, it is crucial to consider the potential ramifications this digital currency may have on your retirement savings. From concerns regarding devaluation and privacy to the potential disruption of traditional banking, understanding the implications and taking proactive measures can help safeguard your retirement funds. As the digital dollar moves from proposal to implementation, staying informed and adapting your financial strategies accordingly will be paramount in ensuring a secure and stable retirement future. As of last week, it seems U.S. authorities do not like digital currencies. But a central bank digital currency (CBDC)? That has not been ruled out yet. At least, that's what Graham Steele, assistant secretary for financial institutions, said recently at the Transform Payments USA 2023 conference. Steele, representing the Treasury Department, was clear in the fact that the United States “has not yet determined whether it will pursue a CBDC.” He did say, however, that the Treasury is leading an interagency working group to study a “potential” U.S. CBDC. For more information about the Biden Administration's position on CBDC, visit: https://www.whitehouse.gov/ostp/news-updates/2022/09/16/technical-possibilities-for-a-u-s-central-bank-digital-currency/ - And visit: https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy1314 < Previous News Next News >

Concrete Ways to Prepare Kids for a Rapidly Changing World June 6, 2024 Share Young people face an increasing medley of challenges as they pursue higher education — rising tuition costs, daunting prospective student debt, and a talented and competitive applicant pool. After a decade of preparing students for the ever more difficult admissions process, college counselor Greg Kaplan wishes parents would stop thinking, “What should I do to get my kid into a good college?” and instead ask, “How can I best prepare my child for what comes next?” Having practiced law and worked in investment banking early in his career before pivoting to working with students, parents and educators, Kaplan knows what the world — and its population of college admissions officers — is looking for in today’s youth and tomorrow's leaders. In his new book, The Journey: How to Prepare Kids for a Competitive and Changing World, Kaplan goes beyond the well-chronicled college admissions madness and cuts to the core of parental angst, delivering a definitive guide that shares what parents can do now to help their children make the most of the opportunities they will encounter in the future. Emphasizing these fundamental tenets of successful adulthood — grit, leadership and passion — The Journey paints a realistic picture of the lack of preparedness among today’s youth. Using stories of parents and students who have struggled and succeeded, Kaplan pushes students to consider: What do you want to get out of your college and work career? How can you jumpstart your journey into the real world? He asks parents: Are you preparing your children to attain a life of health, happiness and financial independence? “Greg Kaplan’s The Journey reframes and reimagines the stressful college application process into a powerful journey of self-discovery, authenticity, and leadership development.” — Matthew Breitfelder, Partner and Global Head of Human Capital, Apollo Global Management Rooted in humorous stories sprinkled with bits of brutally honest advice, The Journey provides valuable information for parents, empowers young people and encourages families to work together in healthy ways to prepare kids for their next steps. Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Journey-Prepare-Competitive-Changing-World/dp/0757325041/ < Previous News Next News >

SPARK Tank Competition & Hollywood Salsa Fest South Florida Sun Times Apr 3, 2025 Are You An Aspiring Entrepreneur With A Game-Changing Idea? The SPARK Tank Pitch Competition Is Your Opportunity To Bring Your Vision To Life! Hosted By The City Of Hollywood And The Greater Hollywood Chamber Of Commerce, This Shark Tank-Style Event Offers Cash Prizes, In-Kind Support, And Invaluable Industry Connections To Help Launch Your Business. Why Apply? This is more than just a competition—it’s your chance to pitch your idea to a panel of local investors and business leaders who can help turn your startup dream into reality. Whether you win or not, the networking and exposure alone could open doors to future opportunities! Save the Date! Even if you’re not competing, you won’t want to miss the excitement. Spectators can watch Hollywood’s brightest entrepreneurs battle it out in a high-energy pitch showdown. Event Date: May 22th at 6:00 p.m. Location: Invicta Watch Headquarters, 3069 Taft Street, Hollywood, FL 33021 Stay Updated: www.sparkhollywoodfl.com Apply Now – Don’t Miss Your Chance! The deadline to apply is April 4th, 2025. Seize this opportunity to take your business idea to the next level! Ready to make your pitch? Apply today! Hollywood Salsa Fest Saturday, April 5th: from 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Enjoy the largest free Salsa Music Festival in South Florida. The Hollywood Salsa Festival at the ArtsPark at Young Circle celebrates salsa music in all its forms. At Hollywood Salsa Fest, their mission is to bring people together through the power of live salsa music. They believe that salsa music has the ability to connect people from all walks of life and create a sense of community. Visit the event website for more information: https://hollywoodsalsafest.net Previous Next

Enjoy The Holiday But Keep Safety in Mind: Thanksgiving Is The Leading Day Of The Year For Home Cooking Fires November 23, 2023 Share As families look forward to their Thanksgiving feast, Fire Safety is not often their first concern. However, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home cooking fires. Safety in the kitchen is important, especially on Thanksgiving Day when there is a lot of activity, people at home and children involved in holiday preparations. The City of Hollywood Department of Fire Rescue and Beach Safety would like to pass along these safety tips from the NFPA to help families keep their loved ones safe as they enjoy the day. • Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food. • When cooking your Turkey, stay in the home and check on it frequently. • Keep children at least three feet away from hot stoves. • Use caution around hot foods and liquids. Steam or splashing from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns. • Keep floors clear of tripping hazards like toys, pocketbooks or bags. • Keep knives and electric cords from kitchen appliances, matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children. • Never leave lit candles unattended. • Ensure your smoke alarms are working. Take a moment to test them by pushing the test button. Dangers Of Frying A Turkey: Cooking is one of the leading causes of house fires, with 44% of house fires between 2017 and 2021 attributed to cooking incidents. Thanksgiving, a day known for extensive cooking, particularly raises this risk due to Turkey frying, significantly increasing the potential for fires. However, rather than dampening the holiday spirit, it's crucial to ensure safety during these festivities, especially when handling Turkey fryers. Here are essential tips to safely fry your Turkey: Outdoor Setup: Experts recommend using Turkey fryers outside on a stable, level surface, away from anything flammable. Keep children and pets at least three feet away to prevent accidental burns. Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and never leave the cooking unattended, as this is a prime cause of cooking-related fires. Stay focused on the frying process and avoid multitasking. Oil Quantity: Do not overfill the pot with oil, as this can cause spillage. Fill the pot with water beforehand and add the Turkey to determine the right oil quantity. Thaw Completely: Ensure the Turkey is completely thawed and dried to avoid oil splatter when frying. Monitor Temperature: Use a cooking thermometer to prevent overheating of the oil, a common cause of fryer fires. Protect Yourself: Handle the fryer with long cooking gloves to avoid burns from hot surfaces. Clear Surroundings: Keep combustible items, such as aprons and towels, away from the fryer to prevent accidental ignition. Clothing Safety: Tuck in loose clothing to avoid any chance of it catching fire. Preparation Matters: Clean the cooking area and equipment thoroughly before using the fryer, as unclean surfaces contribute to cooking fires. Fire Safety Equipment: Have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of Emergencies, and be aware that Homeowners' Insurance typically covers Fire-Related Damages. By following these safety measures, you can enjoy a festive and delicious Thanksgiving without the risk of a Turkey fryer fire putting a damper on the celebration. You can also watch a US Consumer Product Safety Commission Turkey Frying informational video at: https://youtu.be/HYvMWIvghnQ?si=3I5MbrH-WPonzYui For more information on holiday fire safety tips, visit: www.nfpa.org/Thanksgiving - And at: https://www.fema.gov/blog/10-ways-prevent-home-fires-thanksgiving Shop Small This Holiday Season: In the spirit of supporting the vibrant local community, Hollywood residents are encouraged to embrace the essence of the upcoming Small Business Saturday on November 25th. Initiated by American Express in 2010, Small Business Saturday was established to champion Small Businesses and prompt individuals to shop at independent retailers and restaurants after Thanksgiving. The impact of this initiative reverberates profoundly, with reported spending among consumers at independent establishments reaching an impressive $17.9 Billion, as revealed by the 2022 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey. These small businesses are the heartbeat of our local economy, constituting over 89% of Broward County's business community. Supporting Local Businesses: Holiday Season Pledge: Consider supporting your favorite local Small Businesses not just on Small Business Saturday but throughout the entire Holiday Season. The contribution of Small Businesses is invaluable, as they infuse the community with uniqueness, character, and economic vitality. Join the movement and pledge to Shop Small in Hollywood this Holiday Season. Your patronage directly nurtures the growth and resilience of these cherished establishments. < Previous News Next News >

Park Participation: Hollywood Earns Recertification As Community Wildlife Habitat By The National Wildlife Federation September 28, 2023 Share The City of Hollywood has been recertified for the seventh year in a row as a Community Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). The Community Wildlife Habitat Program is designed to encourage property owners to create a habitat suitable for Native Species. Community-wide certification is earned by certifying individual properties (homes, parks, schools, businesses and others), through Education and Outreach. Points are earned by engaging community members in Habitat Restoration Projects, providing resources like Native Plant Lists and communicating through websites and Social Media. In addition to points earned for new private properties in Hollywood that have gotten Certified as Wildlife Habitats, this year the City earned points for its Outreach Efforts on Turtle Lighting Compliance, completing Phase I of our City-Wide Tree Inventory, and partnering with the Youth Environmental Alliance to maintain the dunes in Hollywood North Beach Park. These collective efforts provide: food, shelter and safe nesting places for Birds, Butterflies, Endangered Sea Turtles and everything in between. But the City cannot earn this certification alone, we need residents to certify their own yard as a Backyard Habitat. A big thank you to everyone who is already providing host plants for our native Butterflies, nectar for pollinators, berries and seeds for spring and fall migrants and places to raise young for our year-round residents and seasonal breeders! If you want to welcome Butterflies and Birds onto your property, you can find information on how to get started at NWF’s Garden For Wildlife page. For those interested in certifying their property, it’s simple and you don’t even have to have a yard. A container garden on your patio or balcony can support pollinators and other Native Wildlife. To certify your Wildlife Habitat, you need to provide: food, water, cover, places to raise young (Butterfly host plants count!) and use sustainable practices. For more details and to see the National Wildlife Federation’s certification checklist, go to National Wildlife Federation - Certify. Sunset Park Master Planning Public Meetings The City of Hollywood Department of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts is hosting several Public Meetings across the City to gather input on the Master Planning of Sunset Park. Planned improvements include: Nature Preserve & Trails, Wetlands & Overlooks, Passive Recreation and supporting amenities. Meetings will be held at these locations on the following dates: • Tuesday, October 3rd - Hollywood Branch Library Multi-purpose Room – 2600 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33020. • Monday, October 16th - Boulevard Heights Community Center – 6770 Garfield Street, Hollywood, Florida 33024. • Tuesday, October 17th - Kay Gaither Community Center – 6291 Funston Street, Hollywood, Florida 33023. • Thursday, October 19th - Oak Lake Community Center – 3190 North 56th Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33021. • Tuesday, October 24th - Hollywood Beach Culture & Community Center – 1301 South Ocean Drive, Hollywood, Florida 33019. • Wednesday, October 25th - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center – 2400 Charleston Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020. • Thursday, November 16th - Virtual Meeting - Meeting link on City Calendar at: www.hollywoodfl.org For additional information, please visit: www.hollywoodfl.org - Or call the Department of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts at: (954) 921-3404. As a reminder: City of Hollywood facilities are Plastic and Foam FREE. Single-Use Plastics like water bottles and plastic bags are NOT permitted. < Previous News Next News >