Titan Restoration Inc. Is a Company That Cares By Erika Cartwright July 4, 2024 Share The only thing in life that is certain, is that anything can happen at any time. Such tragedies as; fire, hurricanes, and floods are real and do happen, bringing with them water damage and the potential for harmful mold and bacterial growth. Water damage can occur for several reasons, some you may not notice right away, such as sewer issues, a leaking roof, and clogged or leaking pipes, just to name a few. During these times you need licensed professionals with a plan of action that can ease the stress and take the headache of dealing with the insurance company off your hands. Allowing you to focus on what is important to you in your time of need. Titan Restoration Inc., formerly known as 1st Priority, is a trusted, licensed Cleaning, Water Damage Restoration, and Mold Remediation Company proudly serving all of southern Florida. The main office is in Broward County. Technicians are throughout; Collier, Lee, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie Counties, allowing them to arrive at the site within 45 minutes in times of emergency. With emergency calling 24/7, you’re never more than a phone call away from friendly, efficient, caring, knowledgeable professionals. Whether the water damage in your home or business was caused by a leaking pipe, roof, or major flood, Titan Restoration Inc. is here to help. To schedule non-emergency services or to request a free estimate visit: www.Titanrestorationfl.com , their user-friendly website makes scheduling appointments easy. For emergency services call: 954-280-6950, technicians will arrive within the hour to begin the process of helping you get your life back. With services such as emergency packing and storing of salvageable belongings, following fire or flood, and standing water removal also available, they handle it all for you from A-Z. The cost is most often fully covered by your homeowner’s insurance, leaving you with no worries about chasing down reimbursements from the insurance company. Face it, you have enough worries, this doesn't need to be one of them. Titan Restoration Inc. works with all Florida homeowners’ insurance companies. To assess the situation Titan Restoration Inc. offers state-of-the-art leak detection, using infra-red cameras. This allows for non-invasive, non-messy leak detection. No need to tear up dry wall or floors just to find the source of the leak. Once the leaks have been found, you will be referred to a trusted, licensed plumber. After the repairs’, State-of-the-art specialized equipment is used to detect moisture levels in the air, dehumidifiers are placed in the affected area, and a Florida-licensed Mold Inspector will be sent to do a mold inspection. Samples will be taken of the air and mold. The specimens will be sent to their private laboratory for testing. This will determine which type of mold they are dealing with. Some molds are more toxic than others such as black mold, knowing the type, allows for proper precautions to be taken to ensure effective treatment and removal of the mold. Depending on the severity of the damages, drywall and flooring may need to be replaced to effectively rid your home or business of mold. Titan Restoration Inc. is a full remodeling and restoration company, specializing in kitchen and bath remodels, as well as a wide variety of other services. Throughout this process, Titan Restoration Inc. will be working with your insurance company every step of the way. You should never attempt to remove mold without a licensed professional, it is unsafe, and hazardous to your health. Mold thrives in dark, damp environments such as under the kitchen or bathroom sinks, in unventilated basements, and closed in laundry rooms. It can even be found behind drywall. Because of the heat and humidity which Florida is known for, it provides a perfect environment for mold to thrive. Vigilance is key when it comes to mold remediation. Bleach and paint alone will not eliminate the problem, only hide it, allowing it to grow unseen and spread. This causes more damage to your home and health over time. People and pets all respond differently to mold and mildew. For some, it may be watery eyes, itchy throat, cough, or skin irritation. Confusion, disorientation, and even hallucinations can also be signs of mold exposure. For others, exposure to mold can cause very serious, even life-threatening health problems. When it comes to your health and the safety of your loved ones, trust the experts at Titan Restoration Inc. to have you breathing easier, in a mold-free environment. Once the mold has been identified, the mold remediation process begins. Titan Restoration Inc. will dry out the affected area using fans and dehumidifiers. Followed by thoroughly cleansing and sanitizing the affected areas using antimicrobial agents effective for mold-eliminating and prevention. HEPA- air purifiers are used to capture any airborne mold spores, leaving you with clean air. Green cleaners are used for mildew removal. Since mold spores are airborne and invisible to the naked eye it is necessary to deep clean the air ducts, carpets, furnishings, and upholstery. Homeowners’ insurance covers the cost in most cases following water damage. These services are offered year-round, and it is recommended to have these done once a year to remove allergens, bacteria, dirt, and grime buildup that occurs naturally over time. These services are recommended more frequently if you have pets, suffer from allergies, or are a smoker, to ensure peace of mind and healthier living. After the repairs are completed and your home or business is restored to its pre-loss condition, a Florida state-licensed Mold Inspector will be sent out to do a final inspection, to ensure all mold concerns were effectively eliminated. Titan Restoration Inc. takes pride in providing the best service experience to its customers from start to finish. Their goal is to have your property back to its pre-loss condition while taking the stress off you. Titan Restoration Inc. is a customer-friendly company that also specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling from drywall and baseboards to cabinetry and flooring. It is not necessary to have damage to your home, to call on Titan Restoration Inc. for all your remodeling needs. For a free estimate call: 954-280-6950, now offering 10% off a $350 service for out-of-pocket customers. < Previous News Next News >

Four Reasons NOT To Sell Florida Real Estate "Furnished" - Part 2 By Christopher Carter - Real Estate Broker Associate June 21, 2024 Share Last week's article discussed valuation concerns when a real estate contract includes furniture or other personal property being sold with a house or condominium. Today we are reviewing additional transaction costs that personal property contributes, then suggesting a few ways for it to remain in a residence without causing financing and Appraisal problems or adding unnecessary costs. If you missed Part 1, take a look before starting today's article. Here is a direct link: Four reasons NOT to sell Florida real estate "Furnished" - Part 1: https://www.southfloridasuntimes.com/news/four-reasons-not-to-sell-florida-real-estate-%22furnished%22---part-1 State Transfer Taxes - "Doc Stamps" Florida imposes a .7% Documentary Stamp Tax on "Documents that transfer an interest in Florida real property, such as deeds..." The term comes from the days when actual stamps were affixed to handwritten Deeds, verifying that the appropriate transfer tax had been paid. Florida transfer tax on the signed Deed is calculated on the sale price (the consideration) exchanged between buyer and seller of a house or condo. When the sale closes, this tax is collected by the closing attorney or title company and paid to the local County Clerk who then forwards it to the Florida Department of Revenue. Example - on the sale of a $400,000 house or condominium, Florida documentary stamp tax due is $2,800. For details, here is a direct link to the FLDOR webpage on Doc Stamps: Florida Department Of Revenue - Documentary Stamp Tax ( https://floridarevenue.com/taxes/taxesfees/Pages/doc_stamp.aspx ) Most Florida real estate purchase contracts establish "Doc Stamps on the Deed" as a Seller closing cost, though remember that just about everything in real estate is negotiable. The important point is that the sale will NOT close (nor ownership transferred) until someone pays for State Doc Stamps. When furniture and other personal property are included in the sale price and purchase contract, either the Buyer or Seller will unnecessarily pay real estate transfer tax (Doc Stamps) on the additional value. Even when personal property is not specifically itemized or mentioned in the contract, the higher sale price of a furniture-included deal increases the amount of transfer tax due. Important - Nothing in this article is suggesting the avoidance of legitimately owed taxes. The intent is to help readers realize how personal property sold with real estate affects transaction costs at closing, and property taxes going forward. Annual Property Taxes Anyone buying a house or condo Furnished or Turnkey already knows they are paying more than if the same property was empty and Unfurnished. Whether or not there is a document itemizing, describing, and valuing the furnishings, all parties involved understand that additional consideration is being exchanged when real estate is sold Furnished or Turnkey. With some basic adjustments, the sale price for a recent transaction becomes the new Assessed Value for that house or condo's annual property tax bill. Additional furniture value in the sale price increases the property's new Assessed Value from the County Property Appraiser's Office. When Assessed Value starts higher, it continues higher with annual taxable value and/or millage rate increases. Higher sale price = Higher Assessed Value = Higher annual property taxes Here's a link to an earlier article on property tax basics: Florida Property Taxes - a quick introduction for new owners: https://thefloridarealestateblog.com/f/florida-property-taxes---a-quick-introduction-for-new-owners State Sales Tax (yes, really) This is a 5th reason why personal property should not be included in real estate sales. According to The Florida Department Of Revenue, furniture and personal property sold with a house or condo constitute tangible personal property. As such, it is subject to State sales tax when ownership is transferred from one owner to another for "a consideration" (money). When furniture or other personal property is mentioned in a real estate contract (or an addendum/amendment to the contract) and a monetary value is attached, it is taxable at Florida's current 6% sales tax rate. Some Counties levy an additional sales tax (surtax) on personal property which can range from .5% to 1.5%. This means that if a contract, addendum, or amendment mentions, describes, and/or values the furnishings and personal property remaining in the house or condo, the Seller is responsible for collecting the tax due and sending it to the FLDOR. Seller-side real estate licensees create a taxable situation when they attach written inventories of included personal property to an MLS listing, then to a sales contract as an addendum. When the attached inventory list indicates a price or monetary value, someone in the deal can be held responsible for paying State sales tax on the personal property's sale price - usually the buyer. So...how do you address all these reasons NOT to include personal property in the sale of a house or condo...while still leaving furniture a Seller doesn't want to remove, and a Buyer might want? • When the property is first offered for sale, the MLS listing and other public marketing should indicate the house or condo is offered with furnishings Negotiable, not Furnished or Turnkey. This sets the stage for a separate agreement and reinforces the asking price as being for the real estate only. Don't force potential Buyers to take the furniture by only offering the residence Furnished. • Have a Plan B ready (donation, garage sale) for when a Buyer makes an offer you like, yet insists on taking the residence Unfurnished and empty. • Do not price a house or condo to include any value for furniture and furnishings a Seller wants to leave there "for convenience." Price it based on current market conditions, property features and upgrades, and recent comparable sales. • When Buyers do want the furniture with a residence, draft an agreement in a completely separate document, NOT an addendum to the contract. In the agreement, do not refer to the property or the real estate contract. When you have questions about drafting a personal property agreement, speak with a Florida-licensed attorney. • When establishing a price (not value) for the furniture and personal property that stays, do not itemize on the separate agreement. Use an overall "bulk" price for everything. And be reasonable with the price. Unrealistically low (or high) pricing in the personal property agreement will raise questions to its validity. Here we are - a quick overview of some reasons why it is very important to keep personal property completely separate from real estate when selling or buying a Florida house or condominium residence. Each real estate deal is unique, so there will be specific considerations and negotiations that apply to your transaction. Before making financial or legal decisions regarding a real estate sale or purchase, speak with your tax/financial advisor and a Florida-licensed attorney. Editor's Note: Christopher Carter is NOT an attorney. He does not give legal advice. For interpretation and application to specific circumstances of anything you read in this article, you must speak with a Florida-Licensed attorney. Have a question or comment about anything you see here, if so, visit: www.TheFloridaRealEstateBlog.com < Previous News Next News >

Are You Upside Down? Tens Of Thousands Of Floridians Face A Motor Meltdown Due To Negative Equity September 5, 2024 Share Tens of thousands of Floridians who financed their vehicles are on the brink of a financial meltdown, caught in the tightening grip of negative equity. Tyler Letson, an auto expert from Frisco CDJR, sounds the alarm on a growing crisis that threatens to ensnare countless car owners in a financial trap that’s hard to escape. While negative equity isn’t new (as cars have always depreciated), many in the car industry worry that COVID-19 Pandemic-Related Factors could have significant impacts on car owners who used loans to finance their purchases. Mr. Letson explains how a combination of the COVID-19 Pandemic, microchip shortages and supply chain issues caused new-car inventory to plummet. A lack of supply for new and used cars pushed vehicle prices to record highs at a time when interest rates continued to climb, forcing many car buyers to make purchases at the top of the market. At the same time, government stimulus payments and work from home culture enabled many people to afford more than they could otherwise spend, resulting in much higher auto loan balances. "The car market is now experiencing a period of reconciliation" says Letson. "Consumers are finding themselves in negative equity situations that are hard to escape.” This surge of challenges is particularly troubling for car owners who financed their vehicles with little or no down payment. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that cars, unlike houses, are depreciating assets. The moment you drive a new car off the lot, it begins to lose value, and this depreciation can quickly outpace the rate at which you're paying down the loan. "People don't realize how quickly their car's value can drop. Trade values are directly impacted as new car inventory levels balloon back up and manufacturers pump incentive dollars into the market in the form of huge rebates to maintain volume goals." Letson notes. "It's a cascade of setbacks that can leave you owing thousands more than your car is worth." Negative equity only becomes a significant issue when it's time to trade in or sell your vehicle. If you owe more on your car loan than the car is worth, you're faced with a difficult choice: either pay the difference out of pocket or roll the negative equity into a new loan, which often leads to an even deeper financial hole. This situation is becoming increasingly common as the average length of car loans stretches to five, six, or even seven years. While longer loan terms might make monthly payments more manageable, they also increase the risk of falling into negative equity. "Extending the loan term can seem like a good idea at first," explains Letson. "However, the longer the loan, the greater the risk of being underwater on your car. We're seeing a trend where even well-prepared buyers are caught off guard.” Given these challenges, many experts are now advising consumers to consider leasing as a more viable option. Leasing, unlike traditional financing, allows you to drive a new car every few years without the long-term commitment of ownership. While leasing does come with its own set of considerations, it offers several advantages that can help mitigate the risks associated with negative equity. "Leasing can be a much safer financial choice for many people," explains Letson. "It allows you to avoid the pitfalls of long-term loans and the uncertainty of car depreciation." The leases our parents and grandparents cautioned us about no longer exist. There are several major advantages to leasing in today's market, mainly, mitigating risk for the consumer. The leasing company takes all of the risk when they establish a residual, which is essentially their best guess at what the vehicle will be worth in the future. Consumers then pay only for the first couple years of use, and then choose between three possible outcomes at the end of their lease: 1. Buy it out for the guaranteed residual that they established up front. 2. Trade it in for current market value (this works when there is positive equity just as if they had purchased the vehicle). 3. Turn it in and avoid any negative equity caused by unforeseen market shifts like we are in today. "With leasing, you have a built-in exit strategy," Letson points out. "You're not locked into a situation where you owe more than your car is worth.” Leasing also typically involves lower monthly payments than financing a purchase, which can free up cash for other expenses or savings. Additionally, because lease terms are generally shorter - around two to three years - you can upgrade to a newer model more frequently, benefiting from the latest technology and safety features, all while maintaining manufacturer comprehensive warranty coverage which keeps your total cost of ownership down. "Leasing keeps you in a newer, more reliable car," says Letson. "And with the pace of technological advancements in the auto industry, that's a significant advantage." The Case for Leasing Over Financing For many consumers, the idea of owning a car is appealing, but the reality is that ownership comes with significant financial risks, especially in today's unpredictable market. Leasing offers a way to enjoy the benefits of driving a new car without the long-term financial commitment and the risks associated with depreciation and negative equity. "Car ownership isn't what it used to be," Letson reflects. "Leasing provides a flexible alternative that can save you money and reduce financial stress. However, it's important to consider your individual needs and circumstances when deciding whether to lease or finance. Leasing may not be the best choice for everyone, particularly if you drive a lot of miles each year or prefer to keep your car for a long time. But for those who value flexibility and want to avoid the financial pitfalls of car ownership, leasing can be a smart alternative." "There's no one-size-fits-all answer," Letson acknowledges. "But for many people, leasing is a far better option in today's market than taking on the risk of a long-term car loan.” < Previous News Next News >

I Have Been Writing This Story My Entire Life: A Timeless New Musical About The Cuban-American Experience August 15, 2023 Share Entertaining, uplifting and enlightening, Always Remember has something for everyone! This Highly-Acclaimed World Premiere Musical is taking South Florida by storm! Cuban-Born American Marilyn Morales has written the definitive and timeless new musical about the Cuban-American Experience – which speaks to the ageless plight of all refugees. This epic work is a love letter to all people who have sought liberty – and will be enjoyed by audiences for generations to come! “Rarely does a work … shout for joy with all the necessary professional ingredients of a successful commercial musical like Marilyn Morales’ Always Remember. Keep your eye on this one. It’s destined for a big future.” Lorraine Lucciola, Arts & Entertainment Writer, New England. “…(Marilyn Morales) captures so much of the Cuban story in a vital and intimate way!” Rorianne Schrade, Concert Pianist, Music Reviewer, New York, New York. Morales will be joined by husband and arranger, Kirk Whipple, in an enchanting evening of songs from her ground-breaking new show. The duo will be joined by Vocal and Theater Luminaries: Megan Barrera - Soprano, Carlton Cornish - Tenor, Sebastian Hernandez - Baritone, Catherine Magariño - Soprano, Gerardo José Ortega - Tenor and Craig Wheeler - Baritone. Featured on the program will be Rafael Valencia, Bass and Tony Lopez, Drums. This epic full-scale work is a love letter to all people who have sought liberty. The intriguing narrative, unforgettable songs, rich original musical score, bold dialogue and dance combine to make a thrilling live experience that will be enjoyed by audiences for generations to come! A Message From the Creator: I lived this. My beloved family, much like the Santos family in Always Remember, left Cuba with nothing more than the clothes we were wearing and one suitcase of personal belongings for the five of us. This work is dedicated to my parents and to the countless refugees who have made the greatest personal sacrifices for the hope of a better future for their children. While the story is a fiction, every single scene, dialogue and word in this show comes from my experience or a family member's story – or from well-researched documented accounts. As a narrative of our Cuban Culture, I have been writing the story of Always Remember my entire life. And now, with the eyes of the world taking a hard look at the Cuban-American experience, the time is now for this to see the light of day. At intermissions and following showcase performances, I have been deeply gratified to receive very emotional responses from fellow Cuban refugees - as well as those from other countries. I am happy to say that my story appears to be resonating with those who have attended the showcases so far. From an overarching artistic perspective, I sought to craft this work in the grand tradition of the classic and enduring musicals. This is an honest work, as it is the work of my life - my Magnum Opus. There are 23 songs in Always Remember. The styles that I employ, i.e. Guaguanco, Mambo, Rumba, Tango and, contrastingly, Salsa, Rock Ballade, Broadway-Style Numbers and Incidental Music have been painstakingly integrated into the fabric of the story. I am very lucky to have connected with an extraordinary team of artists and technicians, who have been faithful to the vision of Always Remember. My husband Kirk is my Arranging Assistant and Dialogue Consultant. Theatrical Consultant Michael Duarte, Fine Arts Specialist Lilia Fontana, Actor and Director Brad Shank, Vocal Coach Manny Perez and Public Relations Specialist Arely Ruiz are just the tip of the iceberg of talented and passionate professionals who have advised me on my journey. My motivation to create Always Remember came from my time in California in the 1990’s. I was exasperated from hearing so many uninformed people tell me how "wonderful things are in Cuba." My angst got the best of me, and I decided to communicate the story of many Cuban refugees in the best way I know: through the organic fusion of music, lyrics and story. I longed to create a story, score and set of songs that could stand the test of time against the likes of West Side Story, The Sound of Music, Madame Butterfly and other musicals and operas I cherished from childhood. In the grander context of my life, the creation of this show is allowing me to express myself in every way possible. I am telling the story of my life and that of many fellow Cubans, and I have created a musical I believe in with all my heart. The performances will be held on Saturday, September 9th, 2023 - 8:00 p.m., at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Tickets are available starting at $40.00. 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. < Previous News Next News >

A Celebration of Women: We All Need To Know One Good Deed Can Change The World By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper April 13, 2023 Share Last month there were many events to celebrate Women. Representative Marie Woodson hosted her 2nd Exceptional Women Awards Luncheon here in Hallandale Beach. While the luncheon was to honor others Marie Woodson is worthy of the award herself. She was born in Port-de-Paix, Haiti and moved to the states in 1981. She lives in Hollywood, Florida and is married to Bob and is the mother of two successful children. Representative Woodson has earned numerous degrees, an A.S. in Public Administration from Miami-Dade College in 1984, a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Florida International University in 1987, and an M.S. in Public Administration/Management from St. Thomas University in 1994. Her career experience includes working as a Public Administrator in Miami-Dade. She is a fierce defender of our Veterans, seniors and the underserved. The goal she has always embraced is public service. The goal of the event was to recognize women that are the unsung shero’s in her district. All these women have come from different walks of life and are all ages. In Marie’s words, “...I continue to be proud and delighted to have met many individuals who do what is required to impact lives in an exceptional way.” Thank you Marie Woodson for your exceptional service. Honorees include Dr. Emeline Alexis-Schulz who helped to put together “ Serving All On Thanksgiving.” Sandra Alvarado-Raymond, LMHC, who as Paralegal helped many with counseling and turned this experience into a mentoring nonprofit. Gloria Binns who provides food and outreach for the poor. From Hallandale Beach Laqueshia Brinson who has created an amazing after school club GLOW Girls Leading Our World and DEAL Doing Everything to Achieve Leadership. Erika Rojas, who also does amazing outreach in our city with a focus on domestic violence and helping children every year at our Hepburn Center. Laurie Schecter is an activist who has founded an organization for ethical common good across sectors with a focus on government. Angela Smith hosts an annual tea to raise scholarship funds for needy students and provide food for the homeless. Lynn Smith is the first woman bank chair, Author and Mentor. Nadeige Sterlin, MPA with Degrees in Business and world experience that she applies on many boards that help the underserved. Cynthia Strachan, singer and historian, focused on and preserving the history of Carver Ranches. She wrote and produced “Their Story is Our Story.” It was such an honor to take part in this event. We all need to know one good deed can change the world. As women leaders we need to continue to encourage future generations that they do have the power to fulfill their dreams. Also as women they can harness the backing of others to reach their goals. The celebration of women continued the following Friday at Hallandale High School. Assistant Principal Ms. Sherman under the leadership of Principal Howard invited women leaders from all professions to a morning breakfast. The goal for each invitee was to address Women’s Empowerment through EmpowerHER Dialogues. We kicked off with an All Women JROTC Color Guard and a breakfast served by student volunteers. We then had a special presentation of spoken word from Ms. Blake who inspired us all. After enjoying breakfast, we were escorted to the gymnasium as a team. The gym was set up with approximately one hundred young ladies in discussion circles. Each Leader/Mentor was introduced and then asked to sit with the young students. There were two sessions. Each kicked off with Keynote Speakers who shared their life story. The groups all in round one discussed the obstacles the ladies thought were in their way of achieving their dreams. The second was how can we all unite in helping to build self-confidence. The final few minutes we all held an open discussion. I thoroughly enjoyed speaking with these young ladies. All in all, they knew what they wanted to do after school. They asked me when I was their age, if I had a plan to be a mayor. I get asked that quite often in these settings. So I told them no, but what I did before being a Mayor and then I decided to commit myself to Public Service. After the discussion I had a chance to make sure they met a mentor for their career goals. One wanted to go into the FBI. Another wanted to go into hairdressing. Another young lady wanted to go to college for technology. Others were college bound but undecided. Sadly, just like all other teenagers they are struggling with social issues. Having them speak openly without fear of retaliation was very eye opening. Many spoke about social media and pressures of bullying among themselves as girls. Principal Howard was right on point with this event. The mentors all agreed we need more of these types of interactions. Not only to help prevent isolation but to really help bring exposure to various careers and how to attain them. Our schools are always looking for volunteers and mentors. I encourage our readers to think about helping our young students. It is rewarding and certainly makes a huge impact on our children. We have many schools but our two main campuses are Hallandale High School and Gulfstream Academy K-8. Check them out online. As always, I am available for your questions, concerns and ideas to help make our City a better place. Please feel free to reach out at my office: (954) 457-1318. On my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or email at: jcooper@cohb.org . < Previous News Next News >

Hollyweird Halloween: Downtown Hollywood Block Party And Park Reaccreditation Thu Oct 27 2022 16:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

NoMi Beats & Bingo: City Of North Miami Presents A Fun-Filled Afternoon of Music, Games, and Community February 14, 2025 Share As part of the City of North Miami’s 2025 Black History Month festivities the City of North Miami proudly presents NoMi Beats & Bingo Brunch, a dynamic event designed to bring the community together for great entertainment, friendly competition, and socializing in a vibrant atmosphere over delicious food. NoMi Beats & Bingo Brunch will take place on Sunday, February 16th, at the Joe Celestin Center, located at 1525 Northwest 135th Street, North Miami, Florida 33167. Doors open at 12:00 p.m., and bingo kicks off at 12:30 p.m. Attendees can enjoy brunch and an afternoon of classic hip-hop and R&B spun by DJ Bo Weezy, setting the perfect tone for a lively and engaging event. Guests will be treated to a delicious brunch catered by Southern Belle’s Kitchen, featuring an assortment of brunch bites that perfectly complement the afternoon’s activities. Admission is $20 for early registration and $30 at the door, which includes two bingo cards and brunch. Attendees can also participate in a 50/50 cash raffle, line dancing, and exciting prize giveaways. The event is co-sponsored by Pòtieri Cocktail, adding a special touch to the festivities. Attire is Sunday brunch casual. So, come dressed to enjoy a relaxed yet stylish afternoon with friends and neighbors. Guests must be 21 years old or older to enter. A valid government-issued ID is required. Don’t miss this chance to eat, play, and win in an upbeat, community-driven setting. To secure your spot, RSVP at: https://NoMiBeatsandBingo.eventbrite.com . As part of the City of North Miami’s 2025 Black History Month festivities, NoMi Beats & Bingo is one of several exciting events highlighting culture, music, and community engagement, produced by a committee of staff volunteers. To view the full lineup of Black History Month events, visit: www.NorthMiamiFL.gov/Celebrate < Previous News Next News >

Israel Search & Recovery Team Deploys To Sydney After Deadly Hanukkah Terror Attack Jewish Connection News Dec 18, 2025 In The Wake Of A Deadly Terror Attack In Sydney On The First Night Of Hanukkah, ZAKA Search And Rescue Is Deploying An International Team To Australia To Assist Authorities And The Jewish Community In Ensuring Proper Kavod Hameit — Dignity For The Dead In Accordance With Jewish Law, Faith And Tradition. Australian authorities estimate that terrorists opened fire at a peaceful Hanukkah gathering on Sunday, killing 11 Jews and wounding nearly 60 others, several of them critically. ZAKA, Israel’s internationally recognized volunteer emergency response and disaster victim recovery organization, is sending a dozen veteran responders, including specialists with extensive experience responding to terror attacks in Israel and abroad. The team will work in close coordination with Australian Law Enforcement and emergency agencies. “Our mission is simple and unwavering: ZAKA is there for every Jew, no matter where they are, in times of crisis,” said ZAKA CEO Dubi Weissenstern. “We bring deep experience from terror scenes, working hand-in-hand with Law Enforcement to preserve critical forensic evidence, while also ensuring the dead are treated with the utmost dignity and can be buried as quickly as possible in accordance with Jewish law.” ZAKA teams are uniquely trained to operate at complex attack scenes, balancing the demands of criminal investigations with the religious imperative to honor the deceased. That expertise has been applied repeatedly following mass-casualty terror attacks, where sensitivity, precision and cooperation with authorities are essential. The deployment is being coordinated from Israel as the team departs Ben Gurion Airport en route to Sydney. ZAKA officials said responders will provide both technical assistance and spiritual support to local communities grappling with the aftermath of the attack. “ZAKA stands with and supports Klal Yisrael across the globe,” said Moshe Rozenberg, ZAKA’s U.S. - Based Executive Director. “When Jews are attacked for who they are, we show up, not only to help recover the fallen with dignity, but to send a clear message of unity, responsibility and care for one another, wherever we may be.” As Hanukkah begins under the shadow of tragedy, ZAKA said its presence in Sydney is meant to bring professionalism, compassion and a measure of solace to grieving families and a shaken community, reaffirming that even in the darkest moments, the dignity of the victims will not be compromised. Founded to honor the dead in accordance with religious tradition, ZAKA has evolved into a full-scale emergency response network, with over 4,000 trained volunteers operating 24/7 across Israel to honor the dead, aid the living and bring dignity in times of devastation. Today, it operates a wide range of units – from rapid medical response and urban search and rescue to water recovery and culturally sensitive burial teams serving Israel’s Jewish, Bedouin, Arab, and Druze communities. For more information, visit: https://zakaworld.org/ . In the wake of a deadly terror attack in Sydney on the first night of Hanukkah, ZAKA Search and Rescue is deploying an international team to Australia to assist authorities and the Jewish community in ensuring proper Kavod Hameit — dignity for the dead in accordance with Jewish law, faith and tradition. Photos Courtesy of ZAKA Previous Next

10 Ways AI Is Ending Car Buying Chaos - Why Tapping AI To Negotiate The Best Car Deal Has Become A No Brainer By Merilee Kern, MBA Jan 7, 2026 Buying A New Car Should Be Fun, Exciting And Rewarding. Sadly, For Most Consumers, It’s Among The Most Stressful Purchases They’ll Ever Make. Hidden Fees, Opaque Pricing And High-Pressure Tactics Have Long Defined The Retail Auto Experience. Meanwhile, Dealerships Themselves Are Struggling With Inefficiency, Burnout And Outdated Sales Models. "That’s all changing in real time," says automotive AI expert Zach Shefska, CarEdge CEO. "Already making a notable impact, artificial intelligence is completely rewriting the rules of car buying, bringing transparency, efficiency and trust to an industry that has resisted modernization for decades." Here are ten reasons AI is reshaping how cars will be bought and sold in the years ahead. 1. Transparency Replaces Guesswork AI tools are collecting real-time pricing data from thousands of dealerships nationwide, exposing hidden markups, inflated add-ons and misleading “great deal” badges. This transparency helps shoppers see what cars really cost before setting foot in a showroom, restoring trust to a process long defined by uncertainty. 2. Negotiation Becomes Objective Instead of relying on emotion or sales pressure, AI uses data to evaluate fair pricing and even negotiate with dealerships. Consumers gain an impartial advocate that compares offers, identifies inflated costs and secures competitive out-the-door prices without the stress of haggling. 3. Spam-Free Communication AI systems can now act as intermediaries, contacting multiple dealerships on behalf of the buyer while shielding their personal email and phone number. This eliminates the flood of follow-up calls and promotional messages that typically follow an online inquiry. 4. Personalized Vehicle Matching Rather than scrolling through hundreds of listings, buyers can describe what matters most—budget, style, range, safety, or performance—and AI can instantly match them with the most relevant models available in real time. This turns overwhelming search results into precise, curated recommendations. 5. Real-Time Market Intelligence AI continuously monitors national and regional pricing trends, interest rates and incentive programs, allowing consumers to identify when and where to buy. This data-driven insight gives shoppers an edge once reserved for industry insiders. 6. Fairness for Honest Dealers By tracking transparent pricing and ethical sales practices, AI highlights reputable dealerships and routes more qualified buyers their way. This levels the playing field, rewarding dealers who price fairly and penalizing those who rely on deception or high-pressure tactics. 7. Time Savings on Every Step AI automates hours of tedious work—comparing listings, contacting dealers, collecting quotes and analyzing options—so consumers can make informed decisions in minutes instead of days. What once required multiple visits and phone calls now happens seamlessly behind the scenes. 8. Data-Backed Confidence at Signing When buyers reach the contract stage, AI systems can flag inconsistencies between online pricing and dealership paperwork. This ensures full alignment on the final out-the-door price, helping consumers sign with confidence and avoid last-minute surprises. 9. Education Before Engagement By the time buyers interact with a dealer, they are better informed. AI gives consumers access to detailed product information, ownership costs and side-by-side comparisons, reducing dependence on sales scripts and enabling smarter, faster decisions. 10. A More Human Buying Experience Ironically, the automation that AI brings is making car buying feel more human. By removing confusion, confrontation and wasted time, AI frees buyers to focus on excitement and satisfaction—knowing they are getting a fair deal, clear information and control over the process. The Road Ahead AI’s influence on retail automotive is only beginning. "From intelligent research tools and negotiation agents to data transparency networks, the technology is already rebuilding an antiquated industry into one where both buyers and sellers win," notes Shefska, himself on the front lines of the auto retail technology revolution with the CarEdge https://caredge.com/pro tool saving buyers thousands. "For consumers, that means a simpler, fairer experience. For dealers, it means efficiency, lower overhead and stronger long-term relationships." In short, artificial intelligence isn’t just improving how we buy cars. It’s redefining what fair, informed and frictionless car buying finally looks like. For consumers, the car buying experience is about to get radically easier. For dealers and OEMs, the ones who embrace this new model won’t just survive, they’ll lead. From vehicle research and selection, to negotiation and pricing, agentic AI brings much needed transparency and efficiency to an industry that desperately needs it. The age of agentic AI is here, turning hours of confusion into minutes of clarity, and replacing pressure with empowerment. For both buyers and dealers, the road ahead is smarter, faster and finally fair. Merilee Kern, MBA Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. As Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee is a prolific business, lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker. She keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at: www.TheLuxeList.com - Instagram: www.Instagram.com/MerileeKern - Twitter: www.Twitter.com/MerileeKern - Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial - LinkedIN: www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern . Previous Next

Kickoff Cravings: Win Your Tailgate With MVP-Level Appetizers at The Next Dolphins Game By Family Features October 5, 2023 Share Before this weekend's touchdown dances and sideline celebrations, settling in for a winning game day experience starts with delicious foods. Whether your football parties take place at home, in the backyard or right outside the stadium, kicking it off with savory appetizers can get the crowd on its feet. Keep your game plan simple this season and light up the scoreboard with fan favorites like dips and wings. These versions are both easy to prepare and can be enjoyed fresh or made in advance and kept warm or reheated to energize your fellow diehards. Powering up for a successful game day starts with a pregame spread, and no tailgate or homegate is complete without a spicy dip that brings the heat. This Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip is a perfect solution for firing up your crowd as it requires little preparation so you save precious time before kickoff. Whether you bake shortly before the game begins or make it ahead of time for a parking lot party, simply keep it warm and serve with chips or veggie sticks for a quick, shareable appetizer. Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip Servings: 3-4 • 2 cups shredded chicken • 8 ounces cream cheese • 1/2 cup sour cream • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, plus additional for topping, divided • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder • 1 heavy pinch dried dill • 1/2 cup hot sauce • 2 green onions, chopped • blue cheese crumbles • chips • vegetable sticks Heat oven to 400 F. In bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, onion powder, garlic powder and dried dill until combined. Add hot sauce; mix until combined. Transfer mixture from bowl to oven-safe dish. Top with additional shredded cheese, to taste. Bake until cheese is melted, approximately 15 minutes. Top with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onion. Serve warm with chips and vegetable sticks. Score a Touchdown with a Game Day Dip One of the best ways to take tailgating to the next level this season is by making healthier versions of classic game day fare. For example, you can be the MVP of your game day gathering with a delicious, hall-of-fame-worthy appetizer. Call an audible by using fresh, easy and healthy ingredients to make it better for you and score extra points with family and friends. This Game Day Taco Dip takes fan-favorite flavors - beef, refried beans, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, tomatoes and black olives - and adds a twist with the Fresh Express Butter Supreme Salad kit. This tasty, colorful blend of green butter lettuce, red butter lettuce, radicchio and baby chard is available in the refrigerated produce department and is perfect for creating healthier versions of beloved tailgating dips, snacks, finger foods and more. Visit: FreshExpress.com to discover more winning game day recipe ideas and find a retailer near you. Tailgate Taco Dip Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 12 • 1 pound ground beef • 1 package (1 ounce) taco seasoning • 1/4 cup water • 2 tablespoons minced cilantro • 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans, zesty salsa flavor • 1 jar (16 ounces) thick and chunky salsa, medium or hot • 2 cups guacamole • 1/2 cup sour cream • 3 packages (5 ounces each) Fresh Express Butter Supreme • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese • 1 cup tomatoes, chopped • 1 can (2 1/4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained • 1 package (14 ounces) tortilla chips In skillet over medium-high heat, cook beef 5 minutes, or until no longer pink. Sprinkle with taco seasoning; mix well. Add water; cook 2 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Transfer to bowl; cool to room temperature. Add cilantro; mix well. In 9-inch pie plate, evenly spread refried beans; top with seasoned ground beef and salsa. Add spoonfuls of guacamole across top of salsa then carefully spread to smooth. Place sour cream in small resealable bag; cut off corner. Pipe sour cream to create football shape on guacamole. Put pie plate in center of 15-by-18-inch tray. Arrange salad blend around pie plate. Top with cheddar cheese, tomatoes and olives. Serve with tortilla chips. Just Wing It Skip the silverware at your next homegate and dive right in with a fan favorite that requires just your hands and a heap of napkins: wings. Whether you pick through your pieces or clean each wing to the bone, these Game Day Chicken Wings are perfect for eaters of all types. A simple flour-based coating keeps the recipe easy to make and baking in the oven means you can skip the messy fryer or firing up the grill. Cook until crispy then corral your party's favorite dipping sauces from ranch and blue cheese to barbecue and more. Once your spread is served, it's time to sit back and enjoy the game. Game Day Chicken Wings Total time: 50 minutes Servings: 4 • 1/2 cup butter, cubed • 1/3 cup flour • 2 teaspoons paprika • 1 teaspoon garlic powder • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon black pepper • 10 chicken wingettes, thawed • dipping sauces (optional) • fresh parsley (optional) Preheat oven to 425 F. Line baking sheet with foil. Arrange butter cubes on foil. In medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Coat both sides of wings in flour mixture then evenly space among butter cubes on baking sheet. Bake wings 30 minutes. Turn wings over and bake 15 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked. Serve with dipping sauces and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired. Visit: www.Culinary.net to find more touchdown-worthy tailgate recipes. < Previous News Next News >

School Update And Tax Rate Set To Rollback By Hallandale Beach, Mayor Joy Cooper Sep 24, 2025 Happy Rosh Hashanah To All Of My Friends, Family And The Residents Of The City Of Hallandale Beach!! The first meeting to redefine our local schools was held recently at Hallandale High School. There was a good turnout of not simply residents but teachers, students, parents, community stakeholders and elected officials. As of July 29th, 58 schools were below 70% capacity: 39 elementary, 16 middle, and 3 high schools. In our area the three middle schools were all under enrolled below 55% with McNicol the lowest at 45%. McNicol Middle School and Hallandale High will be my focus as these directly impact our city. It needs to be noted, the school boundaries are different from city boundaries so these two schools impact Hollywood, West Park and Pembroke Park. Hallandale High School was under enrolled as of last year 64% of 1,055 with 574 empty seats. Last night, that number dipped even further this school year with a number around 900. This process obviously has been ongoing for a year or two. This spring there was a survey sent out to all parents inquiring about their school choices. Obviously, many schools are under enrolled, and enrollment is down across the board. Even some charter schools are seeing a dip and capacity. The School Board survey found four areas that they needed to focus on. Better track of social and economics rather than sole focus of grades, more college and career readiness support, concentrate on supporting teachers to bolster the quality of education, address school safety and work to reduce instances of bullying and harassment. These were along with other issues like transportation, school facilities and environment and extracurricular activities. School Board Member Bulman shared that they want input from the residents as they realize how these decisions naturally impact students and families, and every child deserves a quality education. Currently, they are doing this district wide. Some schools have been closed, and properties are being looked at for sale. Others are being repurposed for support services utilized as offices for rent. As far as this school board staff shared that palimony discussions were had to combine McNicol with Hallandale High and convert Hallandale High Program to mirror the Pompano Beach model which has a waiting list. The reality is there will be some tough decisions to make over the next months on these two schools and others district wide. They asked for participation in a live survey and had a breakout session. If you want to provide your input, there is a link on the school board website. The City Commission adopted our budget which included setting the Millage Rate to roll back. This is the second time in two years. If you are homesteaded, as far as the City Tax this will be the amount listed on the last column. The system is a bit complex to understand as every property is based on its taxable values. Using my TRIM notice as an example taxable value went up 24,000 due to Save our Homes and homestead exemptions. My portion of the city tax went up $14 dollars. If you are not homestead or commercial the Tax Rate of 7.3848 will be applied to the Taxable Value. 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

Aventura Provides Defensive Driving Course for Mature Drivers November 8, 2022 Share The City of Aventura in partnership with AAA will provide defensive driving courses later this month for mature drivers. Older Americans today are healthier and more active than ever before. The aging baby boomer generation is the fastest-growing demographic in the U.S. By 2030, there will be more than 70 million people age 65 and older, and approximately 85-90 percent of them will be licensed to drive. In fact, seniors are outliving their ability to drive safely by an average of 7-10 years and for the first time in history, we must plan for our “driving retirement” just as we plan for our financial retirement. Senior drivers are among the safest drivers on the road and often reduce their risk of injury by wearing safety belts, not drinking and driving and by observing speed limits; however, seniors are more likely to be injured or killed in a crash due to age-related fragility. With the exception of teenagers, seniors have the highest crash death rate per mile driven. As we age, our ability to drive safely is affected by natural changes to our bodies over time. Driving is a skill that can and should be continually improved. Taking a comprehensive driving improvement course will ensure that you have the most up-to-date driving techniques and understand the latest vehicle technologies. As you age, it is important for senior drivers to know and understand how to adjust for slower reflexes, weaker vision and other changes. The City of Aventura in partnership with AAA is dedicated to keeping seniors driving for as long as safely possible. They also are committed to promoting viable transportation options for seniors who can no longer drive independently. Such as the Aventura Express Shuttle Bus - https://www.cityofaventura.com/183/Aventura-Express-Shuttle-Bus and the Freebee Ride Service (Aventura Route Only) - https://www.cityofaventura.com/444/Freebee This course was created specifically for drivers 55 and older. The class will provide tips and techniques to help experienced drivers compensate for changing vision, reflexes and response time, as well as understanding how prescription medications may affect driving. This two-day course will sharpen driving skills. The program is designed to help senior drivers be safer while staying behind the wheel longer. The course is intended to reduce risk behind the wheel and focus on high-risk situations drivers face every day. Students of the program will be better prepared to safely operate their motor vehicle in today’s driving environment. Insurance providers may also offer a reduction in premiums for drivers who successfully complete this course, you will have to contact your own provider to verify for sure if you can receive a discount. The course will take place at the City of Aventura Community Recreation Center on Thursday, November 17 and Friday, November 18, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The course is $20 per person and only cash is accepted. To reserve a spot for this course please call 305-270-6450. For more information, contact the Community Recreation Center at: 305-466-3883. < Previous News Next News >