Stay Safe This Swim Season: Be Water Smart South Florida Sun Times May 15, 2025 Swim Season Is Here And While It’s A Great Time To Enjoy The Water, It's Also Important To Keep Safety Top Of Mind—Especially For Young Children. Florida Sadly Leads The Nation In Drowning Deaths Among Children Ages 1 To 4. These Tragedies Can Happen In The Short Time It Takes To Answer A Phone Call Or Step Inside For Just A Moment. To help prevent drowning, it's critical to have multiple layers of protection around any body of water, whether it’s a pool, bathtub, lake, or the ocean. To learn more, visit: www.watersmartfl.com What to Know About “Dry Drowning”: Even after someone is out of the water, they may still be in danger. Dry drowning can occur within an hour after water is inhaled through the nose or mouth. It can trigger a spasm in the airway, leading to troubled breathing. If someone has a near-drowning experience and continues to cough or seems to be struggling to breathe, call 9-1-1 and get medical help right away! Smart Water Safety Tips: Keep eyes on kids at all times: Supervision is the most important layer of protection. Assign a water watcher: In group settings, choose an adult to be responsible for specific children. Rotate this duty so someone is always alert and watching. Swim in safe places: Always choose spots with lifeguards when possible. If swimming somewhere without one, never go alone and make sure someone knows where you are. Secure your pool: Use fences, gates and alarms to keep children from accessing water when adults aren’t present. Respect warnings: Pay attention to “No Swimming” signs. They’re posted for a reason, even if conditions look calm. Helpful Resources: Explore local Learn to Swim programs in Hollywood and find discounts for kids’ lessons and watch the City of Hollywood’s swim safety YouTube video. Grab a swim lesson coupon at: www.watersmartbroward.org/swim-coupon For more safety tips, visit: www.watersmartfl.com Previous Next

Join Us For Bunny Basics Before Easter - Rabbits Might Seem Like Simple Pets, But They Are Quite Complex With Unique Needs South Florida Sun Times Apr 3, 2025 As Easter Approaches, The Idea Of Adding A Fluffy Bunny To Your Family Might Seem Like The Perfect Way To Celebrate The Holiday. After All, What’s Cuter Than A Little Bunny Hopping Around The House? But Before You Rush Out To Adopt Or Purchase A Bunny, It’s Essential To Understand That Rabbits Are More Than Just Adorable Pets—They Require Special Care, Attention, And Knowledge. That’s Where the Humane Society Of Broward County’s Bunny Basics Class Comes In. On Saturday, April 5th, from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., the Humane Society will be hosting a FREE Bunny Basics class via Zoom. This one-hour session will cover everything you need to know about rabbit care, behavior, and how to create a happy, healthy home for your new bunny. Whether you already have a bunny or are considering adopting one in the near future, this class is a must! Rabbits might seem like simple pets, but they are quite complex creatures with unique needs. In the class, you’ll gain valuable insights into how to properly care for your rabbit and address any potential challenges you might face as a bunny owner. The class will cover a wide range of topics, including: Rabbit Care and Behavior: Learn how to understand and meet your bunny’s emotional and physical needs. Rabbits are social animals, and it’s essential to bond with them in a way that promotes trust and companionship. Bunny Bonding: Discover how to build a strong relationship with your bunny, and if you have more than one, how to successfully bond multiple rabbits together. Knowing how to do this correctly will prevent conflicts and ensure a peaceful home. Rabbit Health and Diet: Rabbits have very specific dietary requirements to stay healthy. You’ll learn about the best foods to feed your bunny, along with essential care routines for maintaining their health. A proper diet is crucial for preventing common health issues in rabbits, such as obesity or digestive problems. Litter Box Training: Rabbits are surprisingly easy to litter box train, but there are a few tricks and techniques that will make the process go smoothly. Learn how to train your bunny quickly and effectively, making cleanup a breeze. Creative Housing Ideas: Not all homes are built with bunnies in mind. The class will give you creative ideas for housing your rabbit safely and comfortably, whether you live in an apartment or a house. From DIY bunny-proofing tips to ensuring your bunny has plenty of space to hop around, you’ll leave with plenty of inspiration. Exercise and Enrichment: Rabbits need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. The class will provide fun and easy ways to enrich your bunny’s life, from toys to activities that will keep them engaged. Why This Class is Important While bunnies might look cute and cuddly, they are not low-maintenance pets. They are intelligent, social animals that thrive in environments where their needs are understood and met. Unfortunately, many people impulsively adopt rabbits around Easter, only to realize that they are not prepared for the responsibility. In fact, springtime often sees a rise in bunny adoptions, which means a rise in abandoned rabbits once the novelty wears off. By attending the Bunny Basics class, you’ll be better equipped to provide a lifelong home for your furry friend, and help reduce the number of rabbits that end up in shelters. Signing up for the class is easy and free! Simply call: (954) 579-5101. Or email Heather at: underdogbehavior@gmail.com to reserve your spot. The class will be held via Zoom, so you can join from the comfort of your home, whether you’re a current bunny owner or still considering adopting one. The Humane Society of Broward County The Humane Society of Broward County is a private, Non-Profit Organization that has been serving the community for years. The shelter relies on donations from people and businesses to help fund their programs and services, which include animal adoption, medical care, and educational outreach. If you're looking to adopt a bunny, a dog, a cat, or another pet, be sure to visit the shelter at 2070 Griffin Road in Fort Lauderdale, or check out their website at: www.humanebroward.com to learn more. The adoption department is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., and you can also find details about their low-cost vaccine clinic, upcoming events, and donation opportunities. If you’re thinking about adding a bunny to your family this Easter, don’t rush into it. Take the time to educate yourself about proper rabbit care, and sign up for the Bunny Basics class to ensure you’re fully prepared. Rabbits can be wonderful companions when given the right care, so hop on over to register today! Previous Next

Do I need Flood Insurance If I Live On The 5th Floor? By Christopher Carter - Real Estate Broker Associate June 22, 2023 Share When I hear that question, I'm pretty sure we are talking about a condominium building. Most people think of Flood Insurance in relation to Single-Family Homes, though every type of property has some exposure to flooding. Today, we are discussing Flood Insurance for Florida condo buildings and Associations, which is in addition to any individual residence unit insurance an owner may purchase. Flood Insurance is separate from any other coverage, NOT included in an Association's Hazard & Liability Policies or Windstorm Coverage. Floods are a completely separate risk, and insurance protection for them requires a separate policy. Let's start with a few definitions common to all Flood Insurance: Flood - As defined by the NFIP - “A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more properties (at least one of which is your property) from: Overflow of inland or tidal waters, Unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source, Mudflow or Collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels that result in a flood as defined above.” NFIP - National Flood Insurance Program administered by FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency FIRM - Flood Insurance Rate Map which shows areas/zones of relative flood risk in a specific geographic area And one real estate term as defined by the Condominium Act (Florida Statutes Chapter 718): Condominium - “Condominium” means that form of ownership of real property created pursuant to this chapter, which is composed entirely of units that may be owned by one or more persons, and in which there is, appurtenant to each unit, an undivided share in common elements, (according to attorneys, "undivided" means an individual owner's portion of the common elements cannot be sold or transferred separately). Condominium Owners Associations (COAs) are obligated and responsible under their Governing Documents to maintain insurance against possible hazards to the common structure(s) and shared areas which can include the: Entrance and Lobby, Roof and exterior walls, Parking areas, Building structure, Electrical, HVAC, elevator, and other mechanical systems or Offices, fitness/meeting rooms, clubhouse and other shared onsite amenities. Flood Insurance is an important part of required coverage for many Condominium Associations in Florida. While there are some carriers now offering their own Flood Policies, the most common form of protection is the NFIP's Residential Condominium Building Association Policy (RCBAP) which requires that at least 75% of a building's floor area is residential. The areas most exposed to flood risk in a Condominium Building are usually: Ground floor entries, meeting rooms, and offices, Elevator shafts that extend below ground level and Parking areas (both under the building and ground-level). RCBAP Coverage (often called a "master flood policy") applies to the Association-owned structure, its common elements/areas, and does NOT cover individually-owned units that may be at flood risk. Flood Coverage for individual residence units can be purchased by the unit owner under what is called NFIP's Dwelling Form. Since all individual unit owners also own part of the common elements/areas and are members of the COA, they all pay a part of the Association's Flood Insurance premium in their scheduled assessments (condo "dues"). Yes, even when you live on the 5th floor as our headline question asks. A couple of years ago, the NFIP modified their risk and premium rate analysis for Single-Family Houses, depending less on Flood Maps and more on individual property physical location, design, and exposure to evaluate risk, and therefore Flood Insurance premium costs. This new method for evaluating individual properties is called Risk Rating 2.0. However, RCBAP Policies still start with a building's Flood Zone as shown on the FIRM. Buildings in any A and V Flood Zones are located in Special Flood Hazard Areas. Being in an SFHA means flood risk is one of the hazards for which the Association should carry insurance protection. (V stands for Velocity and refers to moving water from wave or current action. Most Florida beachfront condo buildings are in V Flood Zones.) Here are 3 basics about the RCBAP program: • RCBAP is Single-Peril Coverage, meaning it only pays for direct physical loss by (or from) Flood Damage as defined in the policy. • Is based on Replacement Cost Value, with deductibles calculated as a % of loss value, not maximum policy limits. • Does NOT cover the Association's Personal Property such as Lobby/office furniture, fitness room equipment, etc. These items can be covered by a separate contents policy with an additional premium. RCBAP Coverage does NOT include: • Any individually-owned residence units or their contents • Damage from moisture, mold, or mildew caused by inaction to prevent or control it • Vehicles such as owners' cars and golf carts • Swimming pools • Landscaping trees, plants, fences, decks, walkways • Financial losses from business interruption • Permit costs for demolition, renovation, or repair of the condominium property Florida's Condominium Act does not require COAs to have Flood Insurance, though it may be considered irresponsible and careless if the Board of Directors does not maintain Flood Insurance for a building located in a SFHA. Each COA's Governing Documents state the Association's obligation and requirements for insuring the property and common elements. This is important - when a Florida condo building is in a Flood Zone that starts with an A or V (SFHA), very few lenders will approve and fund Mortgage on an individual unit in that building unless the Association carries Flood Insurance on the common elements/areas (a "master policy"). Not many lenders will accept the risk of lending money for the purchase of an individual unit in a condo building that should carry Flood Insurance, though it doesn't. In this case, individual unit financing is only available from portfolio lenders (usually regional banks) who hold and service the loan as an in-house investment rather than selling it to institutional investors in the secondary Mortgage market. • Insufficient or no Building Flood Coverage can result in significant Special Assessments to owners in the event of Flood Damage. • Insufficient/Lapsed RCBAP Coverage can make it difficult or impossible for a buyer to get purchase financing on an individual unit in the building. It is also important to note that Condominium Associations with multiple separate buildings usually need a separate RCBAP Policy for each building, with its own separate premium cost. Each building by itself has exposure to Flood risk. Even within the same community and same Flood Zone, individual buildings can have very different flood risks. Florida has many different designs and styles of condominium buildings, which is why Flood Risk exposure is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. There are no 2 buildings that have exactly the same Flood risk. Consider this - a 15-story condominium building may have 120 individual units with just 5 individual residence units on the ground floor. Another COA also with 120 units may have 15 separate buildings containing 8 units each. In this arrangement, there are 60 individual residence units on the ground floors. In the high-rise arrangement, there is likely significant ground-floor Association area to protect from flooding (lobby, offices, meeting rooms), while in the low-rise design there can be little or no ground-floor Association-owned area to protect because all buildings contain only individually-owned units without lobby space. This is why many COAs with low-rise buildings do not carry Flood Insurance. Remember - an Association's RCBAP Flood Policy does NOT cover any individually-owned residence units. For this reason, I suggest that ALL owners of ground floor condo units in A or V Flood Zones carry their own Dwelling Form Flood Insurance. Finally - Not all Water Damage is Flood Damage. Flood Insurance only covers rising groundwater and/or tidal surge causing damage to a building and its mechanical equipment. Damage caused by other factors (like wind) is covered by other types of insurance. Windstorm Insurance does not cover flooding, and Flood Insurance does not cover damage from high winds. Let's answer our headline question: Yes, owners of residence units on the higher floors of Florida condo buildings DO need Flood Insurance because they also own part of all the ground-floor areas that are exposed to flood risk. The COA's Flood Policy takes care of this, and all owners contribute to the premium cost. It is strongly advised that condo owners also have insurance protection for their individual residence units, at least a basic HO-6 Condo Policy. And there we are, a very brief introduction to the basics of Flood Insurance for Florida Condominium Buildings and Associations. 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 Real Estate attorney. < Previous News Next News >

Happy 100th Miriam Esther Schwartz September 19, 2023 Share Reaching the remarkable milestone of a centenary is a momentous occasion, and Wayne Schwartz is thrilled to announce the 100th birthday of his beloved mother, Miriam Esther Schwartz. Her journey through life has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by decades of living in the vibrant communities of Miami Beach, Sunny Isles, and Hallandale. As we celebrate her remarkable journey and the countless lives she's touched, we delve into the story of a woman who has witnessed the transformation of a city and embraced the joys of family, community service, and a love for classical music. Miriam's connection to the sun-kissed shores of Miami Beach runs deep, with her roots firmly planted for over sixty years. She first discovered the allure of this coastal paradise in 1948 when she started vacationing there. Over the years, she witnessed the evolving landscape of Miami Beach as it transitioned into an internationally acclaimed destination. As Miami Beach changed, so did her life, and her resilience in adapting to these shifts is nothing short of inspiring. Education was a significant part of Miriam's family life. Both her sons, including Wayne and his brother, attended Miami Beach High School and later pursued their higher education at the University of Florida. Miriam's commitment to fostering a love for learning in her children has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on their lives. With a family that extended beyond her sons, Miriam had the joy of having two sons and three stepdaughters, who brought warmth and love into her life. Her family grew even more with nine grandchildren and a growing number of great-grandchildren, which is a testament to the legacy she has built. Throughout her life, Miriam worked diligently, dedicating her skills to various roles. She served as a bookkeeper for an independent insurance agency on Miami Beach for an impressive 15 years, showcasing her commitment and work ethic. Later, she transitioned to a bookkeeping position at a local air-conditioning company, where she continued to excel for another decade. Her work ethic and dedication to her profession serve as an inspiration to all. Miriam's talents extended beyond the realm of bookkeeping. She was a prolific knitter, crafting beautiful blankets, afghans, and dolls that carried her love and warmth. These handmade creations became cherished heirlooms for her family, a testament to her skill and care. Sadly, as her sight began to deteriorate, her knitting slowed, but the legacy of her craft lives on. A heart filled with compassion and a desire to give back to her community led Miriam to volunteer at numerous hospitals. Her selflessness in dedicating her time to support those in need reflects her kind and generous spirit. Miriam's love for Asian cuisine and her appreciation for classical music enriched her life in countless ways. She savored the flavors of Asian dishes, finding joy in every bite, and she reveled in the melodies of classical composers. One of the greatest gifts she ever received was a full series of CDs featuring the works of her beloved classical composers. This gift brought endless hours of pleasure and a connection to the timeless beauty of classical music. In the later years of her life, Miriam embraced the role of caregiver, tending to her parents who lived to impressive ages of 95 and 101, a reflection of her enduring love and dedication to family. As we celebrate Miriam Esther Schwartz's 100th birthday, we honor not only her longevity but also her rich tapestry of life experiences, her unwavering commitment to family and community, and her love for the arts. Her story reminds us that a life well-lived is one that embraces change, finds joy in the little things, and leaves a lasting impact on the hearts of those around us. Happy 100th birthday, Miriam Esther Schwartz—may your days continue to be filled with love, laughter, and the beautiful notes of classical music. < Previous News Next News >

40 Year Safety Inspection Committee: Changes Will Directly Affect the Future of Our Aging Buildings By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper September 23, 2021 Share “While the catalyst for the committee was the tragic Champlain Tower collapse, there were no discussions about it. Our goal was to develop recommendations to send to the State, Board of Rules and Appeals, municipalities, condominium boards and residents.” Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper Over the last 5 weeks I have had the honor to work on the 40 Year Safety Inspection Committee. Mayor Steve Geller established the committee composed of Senators Book and Thurston, Representatives Gottlieb and LeMarca, Mayor Bolin, Commissioners Monlina-Macfie and Shuham, Michael Chapnick, Esq. Condo Lawyer, President Toby Feuer of Bon Adventure Council, President Johnson of Broward Palm Beach and Dade Realtors, Chair Dan Lavrich of Board of Rules and Appeals, President Nesbitt of Galt Miles Association, Director Dr. Jurado from Broward Environmental Protection, Maite Azcoitia, Esq. Deputy County Attorney and myself. All were picked due to our specialties and connection to legislative policy making. The committee met for over 25 hours to review all aspects of the 40 Year Program and other items that directly affect the future of our aging buildings. There was expert testimony on insurance and future impacts of not fixing buildings, environmental impacts of sea level on structures including seawalls, engineering and waterproofing, concrete restoration and testing, reserve studies and their importance, building officials on the current state of the program and robust discussions on condo board governance and regulations. We also had a day for the public to make comments. While the catalyst for the committee was the tragic Champlain Tower collapse there were no discussions about it. Our goal was to develop recommendations to send to the State, Board of Rules and Appeals, municipalities, condominium boards and residents. Some of our findings will require changes in Tallahassee to be approved regarding condo laws and other statutes related to building codes. Some items we can do locally. My goal is to do all we can do locally and lobby the state to approve changes. Our committee is not the only group working on these issues, but we are one group that had participation from 2 Senators and 2 Representatives, all part of leadership. Miami Dade has had the benefit of Senator Garcia and Rodrigues who also have been working on condo reform and 40-year safety issues. Our last meeting, we reviewed over 22 recommendations and voted on a final recommendation. The final report has not been issued. The major highlights include that associations budgets include reserve accounts for concrete restoration, statutes include that reserves can only be waived if there is a reserves study at least every three years and the waiver must be approved by 75% of unit owners in a meeting quorum, all sellers of the units must provide information relating to all studies, waivers and condo documentation, realtors contracts must include disclosure of reserves and any waivers, the 40 year will be changed to 30 year with ability for 3 year phase in, inspections to happen every 5 years, seawall inspections to be included, a change in the notification process will start two years earlier, it requires that boards must distribute the inspection report to all owners and conduct a meeting to present the report even if the condo has no deficiencies, requires that that the condo must have insurance, requires that any condo over 50 units or having a budget of over 100,000 needs to have a professionally certified condo manager or that at least three of the board members have taken the required education courses, increase that amount of educational requirement for CAMs to include three hours including educational units in building inspections and maintenance, require the CAMs to file a report in writing to the board of any building inspection issues or concerns, remove the certification waiver form for confirming board education and requires that board members have a minimum of 3 hours every two years that will include condo maintenance, the $4 dollars that is paid per door be only used for its intended purpose and not be swept into the general fund, fully support the ombudsmen and increase his ability to provide education and lastly to have the property appraiser include in the TRIM notices for all unit owners educational material on their responsibilities as unit owners. As you can see, we covered a lot of bases and now, Staff will be drafting the final recommendations. Our legislators have already started committee meetings in Tallahassee so our local elections will be putting together the proper bills. Once they are drafted, I will keep our readers informed. Considering the tragic collapse and the broad coalition of groups working together hopefully the State will see fit to correct years of erosion to the condominium laws which have created loopholes that have adversely impacted our residents. As a city we will continue to do what we can to ensure buildings are following the rules. Educating our residents will also be critical. I hope to meet with one or more of my colleagues to see what we can do as a municipality in ties in the event items do not pass in the State. 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 e-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit my Facebook Page: MayorJoyCooper. Like It! Friend It! Share It! < Previous News Next News >

Kaori Miami: Design-Driven Dining - Hi-Fi Sounds And Big Flavors In The Heart Of Brickell South Florida Sun Times May 29, 2025 At The Intersection Of Bold Flavor, Elevated Design, And Immersive Soundscapes, Kaori Has Emerged As One Of Miami’s Most Dynamic Dining Destinations. Located In Brickell And Recognized By The Michelin Guide, Kaori Is A Modern Pan-Asian Restaurant And Hi-Fi Listening Bar Where Culinary Thrillseekers Can Find Subtle Elegance, Inventive Cuisine And Hospitality As Carefully Calibrated As The Playlists Spinning On Vinyl Downstairs. Kaori’s 6,000-square-foot, two-story space moves fluidly from refined dinner service to nightlife. Guests enter through the Listening Bar on the first floor, where warm lighting, minimalist design, and a custom vinyl DJ booth set the tone. Upstairs, the main dining room opens into an elegant, wabi-sabi-inspired space, featuring an open kitchen and panoramic views of the Brickell skyline. Kaori was built to be more than a restaurant, it’s a space for community, culture, and conversation. It’s designed to feel both intimate and expansive, where every detail, from the plate to the playlist to the lighting, is carefully considered to spark emotion. Whether you’re here for an intimate dinner or an evening that transitions into music and connection, the aim is to deliver a full sensory experience that lingers long after you leave. At the helm is Executive Chef Seth Fatah, whose ever-evolving menu pays homage to the diverse culinary traditions of Asia while incorporating local, seasonal ingredients and modern technique. Guests can expect precise, flavor-forward dishes that balance comfort and creativity. To start, signature dishes include the Japanese Milk Bread with house-cultured butter, smoked shoyu honey, and Maldon salt; Braised Short Rib Dumplings with Doubanjiang Shoyu, chili crunch, and microgreens; their playful ode to the legendary Bloomin’ Onion, evidenced here as an umami-rich Blooming Maitake with oat milk and togarashi dredge, sweet onion–mushroom purée, pickled lemongrass, and Fresno chili; and the Beet, koji and jasmine jasmine poached red and golden beets, layered with rose-beet gel, allium oil, guava-kosho emulsion, crispy quinoa, roasted kelp, and candied pistachio powder. Entrée highlights include the Five Spice Dry-Aged Duck sourced from Crescent Farms and served with Peking jus, Belgian endive, and pickled scallion; Mee Siam with rice vermicelli, shrimp, chili noodle sauce, bean sprouts, scallion, ginger, garlic, basil, and cilantro; 45-Day Dry-Aged Steak crusted in Suya spice, served with BBQ sweet plantain in a vanilla-miso glaze, charred seasonal vegetables, guajillo oil, berry gel, and fermented pepper sauce; and Takikomi Gohan, a hot stone pot rice dish with edamame, tamari, nori, scallion, mayu oil, and heritage egg yolk. For dessert, the Caramel Namelaka – a creamy caramelized milk chocolate creation with miso ice cream, banana-dark chocolate sablé, and plantain crisps – is both refined as well as indulgent. The Strawberry Sando – made with shokupan, strawberries-and-cream custard, vanilla butter, and fresh strawberries – is a refreshing, crowd-favorite finish. Kaori offers both à la carte service as well as an eight-course curated tasting experience ($120 per person). The Kaori team is as deeply committed to sustainability as it is culinary excellence, partnering with a number of companies such as Compost for Life, which diverts food waste from landfills to local farms. The restaurant sources their ingredients thoughtfully via E-Fish, Natoora, Niman Ranch, while incorporating low-carbon oils from Zero Acre, emphasizing high-quality ingredients that reflect both environmental responsibility and culinary innovation. Complementing the food is Kaori’s provocative beverage program. Curated by Beverage Director Diego De Leon, the close to a dozen signature specialities are sublime and sophisticated, resplendent with ingredients such as pandan, yuzu, and rose water, complemented by a thoughtful selection of wines, sakes, and Japanese whiskies. Cocktail standouts include Ume Tonikku, made with Tanqueray Rangpur Gin, UME Plum Liqueur, umeshu, shiso, and tonic; Gochu prepared with Don Julio Blanco Tequila, cointreau, watermelon, gochujang, mirin, agave, and charred scallion salt; and the Karajillo – Mezcal Unión Uno, espresso, Licor 43, chicory, Okinawa sugar, and salted milk ice. This creative marvel is a show stopper in two ways: as it’s a creative marvel -- the slated milk ice changing the flavor as it melts at the bottom of the glass With DJs spinning Thursday through Saturday, a daily Happy Hour in the Listening Bar, and a growing reputation among Miami’s culinary insiders, Kaori has become a go-to for those seeking both substance and style in a single, chic spot. Kaori is located at 871 South Miami Avenue, next to the SLS LUX Hotel in Miami. Dinner is served Monday through Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.. The Listening Bar opens at 5PM Monday-Saturday, closing at 11PM Monday through Wednesday and 1AM Thursday through Saturday. Happy Hour is offered Monday-Saturday from 5PM to 7PM at the Listening Bar. For reservations or more information, visit: www.kaorimiami.com . Telephone: (786) 848-5900. For private events or groups of 10 or more, email: events@kaorimiami.com . Previous Next

Family Puppy Yoga And June Is Adopt A Cat Month South Florida Sun Times Jun 11, 2026 Looking For Something Fun To Do With Your Kids Now That School Is Out? Unroll Your Mats And Get Ready To Stretch Into Downward Dog At The Humane Society Of Broward County's First-Ever Family Yoga With Puppies On Monday, June 15th, 2026. This beginner-friendly class welcomes all skill levels, combining light movement, stretching, mindfulness and plenty of puppy cuddles. It’s the perfect opportunity to bond as a family, de-stress, and support homeless animals in need. Whether you’re striking a pose or soaking in some puppy love, this hour-long class offers the perfect opportunity to bond as a family and de-stress. Event Details: • Cost: $35 per person. • Sessions: 10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m. • Ages: Children must be 6 years or older • Adult Requirement: At least one parent/guardian per two children Space is limited so register today at: https://humanebroward.com/event/family-puppy-yoga/ Looking To Adopt June is Adopt a Cat Month, and the Humane Society of Broward County has many adorable felines looking for families to love them. Little Dumpling (ID 719060) is 10 weeks old and weighs just 2.2 pounds. He is cute, curious, and would love to have lots of toys to play with. Or better yet, another kitten friend would keep him busy, and they could tire each other out. When you adopt from the shelter, all the pets are spayed or neutered before going home. They also receive a microchip, preliminary vaccinations, and more. Meet Harlie (718543) , a beautiful 1 1/2 year old, 39-pound, Labrador retriever mix who is waiting to meet you at the Week at the Humane Society of Broward County. This beauty has a bright personality and she loves to cuddle. Harlie came from another shelter, where she was surrendered because her family could no longer afford to take care of her. She was lucky to spend time in a foster home, before arriving and reportedly did well with other dogs. Like other young dogs, Harlie likes to run and play, and she is ready for an adventure. She is social, appears potty trained, and is eager to learn more. Can you be her new best friend? To meet a pet, complete a pre-adoption application at: www.humanebroward.com - and then stop by. The Humane Society of Broward County is located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. The adoption department opens daily at 11:00 a.m. If you have any questions, call: (954) 989-3977. The vaccine clinic is open 6 days and opens at 8:30 a.m. - no appointment is required. Visit the website for more details at: www.humanebroward.com . Dumpling (ID 719060) Harlie (ID 718543) Previous Next

Founders Park SplashPad: The Hours of Operation Have Changed for Fall September 8, 2022 Share Founders Park SplashPad, the City of Aventura’s interactive water playground for children began its fall season weekend only hours of operation, September 3, 2022 through Sunday, October 23, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The SplashPad is open to Aventura residents at no cost with proper proof of residency. Non-Residents are also welcome to utilize the SplashPad. A park entry fee of $5.35 per adult and $3.21 per child, in addition to SplashPad fees of $10.00 per person must be paid online at the City of Aventura’s Online Registration System (ORS): https://secure.rec1.com/FL/aventura-fl/catalog Non-Resident Account Setup · On the ORS dashboard page, find and click the Create Account button. · Follow the instructions to set up the account, including family members. · Click the Founders Park Non-Resident Fees tab on the catalog. Aventura residents who have not created an account on the system must create a new account. To create a new account, follow these simple steps: · Visit us online at cityofaventura.com/ors. · On the dashboard page, find and click the Create Account button. · Follow the instructions to set up the account, including family members. · Upload picture(s) to be used for identification. · Verify address and residency. New accounts will be verified before an Aventura ID card is issued. Once you have completely created and verified your account, please email parksrec@cityofaventura.com to request a copy of your Aventura ID card(s). Please allow up to 5 business days to receive your card by mail. For more information, contact the City of Aventura Community Services Department at 305-466-0183 or via email at parksrec@cityofaventura.com . < Previous News Next News >

A Sizzling September Awaits: Intimate Concerts & Infectious Grooves August 31, 2023 Share The temperature has been off the charts this summer and The Broward Center for the Performing Arts continues that trend in September with artists that ignite the stage with cool shows including the Yacht Rock Sounds of Pablo Cruise, Red-Hot Comic Shane Gillis, the fiery life story of Maria Conchita Alonso, the warm collaboration of Mary Chapin Carpenter and Shawn Colvin and the Sensual Sounds of the Brazilian Folk-Pop Duo Anavitória. Pablo Cruise presents an intimate concert with honest, real, down-to-earth vocals, accompanied by fun yet elegant and infectious grooves in the Abdo New River on Thursday, September 14th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. From the release of the first album in 1975 to 1985, the band toured the United States, Canada and Japan extensively, welcoming fans to "Climb Aboard The Good Ship Pablo Cruise." Reaching the top 10 with mega hits like "Whatcha Gonna Do When She Says Goodbye?" and "Love Will Find a Way," the band went on to sell several million albums and singles. They reunited in 2005 and have since released two live CDs and a DVD. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Outback Presents bring Stand-Up Comic, Actor and Writer Shane Gillis to the Au-Rene Theater on Saturday, September 16th, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. After winning Philly's Funniest at Helium Comedy Club in 2016, Gillis was named an "Up-Next" Comic at Comedy Central's 2019 Clusterfest and a "New Face" at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival. Gillis is one half of the comedy fan favorite Matt and Shane's Secret Podcast and a regular guest on Sirius XM's The Bonfire, Spotify's The Joe Rogan Experience and Barstool Sports KFC Radio. In October of 2022, Gillis and John McKeever partnered with Booklight Entertainment and Outback Presents to produce and release Gilly & Keeves: The Special on www.GillyandKeeves.tv Most recently, he can be seen playing “Gilly” in Peacock's Bupkis opposite Pete Davidson, Joe Pesci and Edie Falco. Maria Conchita Alonso brings her first ever tell-all, completely come-clean, theater-meets-concert-meets-cabaret-meets-the-gossip-pages event to the Amaturo Theater on Saturday, September 23rd, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. The LBGTQ+ icon needs no introduction. Her life has played out in the media, on stages from Miss World to Broadway, in movies with stars ranging from Robin Williams to Arnold Schwarzenegger, in the gossip press including her now infamous LA airport run-in with Sean Penn, from the political world to the scandal sheets. Now she delivers more than 90 minutes of talk, music, video and scandalous stories allowing the audience to see her life on stage and on screen from literally every angle. The audience will laugh, cry, laugh some more and go home completely and thoroughly shocked and truly entertained. She is joined by Special Guest Daniel Rene, a Former Member of Menudo. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and AEG Presents deliver an incredible evening with Mary Chapin Carpenter and Shawn Colvin in the Amaturo Theater on Friday, September 29th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. For more than three decades, the two Singer-Songwriters have enjoyed a musical kinship that has seen them frequently share stages throughout the world. The duo will trade songs and stories from throughout their respective Grammy®-Winning Careers, highlighting hits and longtime fan favorites from their extensive song catalog that features numerous hits on the Country and Pop Charts. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and AEG Presents bring Brazilian Folk-Pop Duo Anavitória to the Amaturo Theater for an evening presented entirely in Portuguese on Saturday, September 30th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. Songwriter Ana Caetano and singer Vitória Falcão have released four Anavitória Albums; two of them received Latin Grammy® Awards in the “Best Portuguese Language Contemporary Pop Album” Category and the other two were nominated. Inspired by legends such as Mutantes, Clube da Esquina, Novos Baianos, Doces Bárbaros and Secos & Molhados, Anavitória is part of a new generation of artists who are bringing Brazilian Folk-Pop songs back to the Charts. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and Parker Playhouse. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Like us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter And: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @BrowardCenter. Subscribe to our channel at: www.Youtube.com/user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with #BrowardCenter. The Broward Center 2022/2023 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and UHealth University of Miami Health System. Programs are also Sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. For information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org < Previous News Next News >

Make Change Happen: Live the Life You Deserve November 11, 2021 Share Laura believes we need to treat mental health like we do physical health Like a fragile flower emerging from a crack in the sidewalk, professor and trained psychotherapist Laura Berg pushed aside personal setbacks and found a way to be better in spite of them — or maybe even because of them. In her new book, Thriving Life: How to Live Your Best Life No Matter the Cards You’re Dealt, Berg blends the knowledge she gained from her own experiences with her education in psychotherapy to build strategies that she hopes will resonate and help heal. “For most of my life I felt stuck, as though I was just trying to survive life one day at a time,” Berg said. “I found it difficult to move beyond the traumas in my past to live the life I deserved. I wrote this book to share with others my experiences and the lessons I learned that helped me overcome the obstacles in my life that were holding me back. I’m hoping that these stories and the advice I share in this book will help the reader live a more joyful and thriving life.” Chapter by chapter, Berg takes a deep dive into specific issues that many people struggle with, such as defining your own happiness, making good relationships last, dealing with toxic relationships, how to stop comparing yourself to others and overcoming rejection. With practical tips and a step-by-step approach to help you find what makes you happy, Berg teaches readers how to stop victimizing themselves and find strength in asking for help. About the Author Laura Berg is a professor, author, entrepreneur, trained therapist and award-winning parenting expert. Among her many accolades, she has been named one of the Top 10 Mom Entrepreneurs, Savvy Mom of the Year, and was awarded YouTube’s Silver Play Button. For more information, please visit her website: lauraberginc.com or feel free to reach out anytime with questions. You can reach Laura via email at laura@lauraberginc.com < Previous News Next News >

“Toes In The Sand” Annual Celebration: The Zac Brown Band Will Light Up The Stage This Month Thu Jan 04 2024 17:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Cannabis Straight Talk from Miracle Leaf PROFILES April 24, 2022 Share The annual National Cannabis Day, which is observed on, April 20 has just passed and Geo Tejada of the Miracle Leaf Cannabis Health Center in Hallandale Beach seeks to set the record straight on his products. “There’s a lot of confusion about Cannabis,” he says. “People want to know why they should consider the use of Cannabis. Where can they buy these products? Is Cannabis legal in Florida? Do people need a license to buy it? How can Cannabis products be used?” Tejada explains that Cannabis products come from the Cannabis Sativa Plant, a widely cultivated crop around the world. “It exists in multiple varieties,” he says. THC Vs. CBD Some varieties of Cannabis have Psychoactive Properties that produce a euphoric reaction. They contain a relatively high concentration of a substance called Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The common name for such varieties is Marijuana. Florida Law allows the use of “Medical Marijuana” that is high in THC for certain qualifying conditions, including: Cancer, Crohn’s Disease, Epilepsy, Glaucoma, HIV-AIDS, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Patients must obtain a Medical Marijuana Card and a recommendation from a Medical Doctor or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine who have taken a course and passed an exam to receive certification as a Marijuana Physician. Upon being approved, patients join a registry and receive a Medical Marijuana Card. Then they may purchase their recommended THC Products from a Dispensary Licensed by the State. “Today,” Tejada says, “over 500,000 patients are registered in Florida.” The rules are different for other varieties of Cannabis, known as Hemp, that contain only trace amounts of THC. During World War II, the U.S. Government used Hemp to make canvas, rope and uniforms. Today it is a source of products as diverse as biofuel, cement, cosmetics, clothing, insulation, paper and textiles. “Hemp became a Federally Approved Crop under the 2018 Farm Bill and all of our products are Hemp-Based,” Tejada says. “Their primary substance, Cannabidiol (CBD), lacks euphoric properties but still can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, pain and stress associated with a variety of medical conditions. “You don’t need a Medical Marijuana Card and a Recommendation to buy the products we sell at Health Centers such as Miracle Leaf,” he emphasizes. To Smoke Or Not The discussion of Cannabis typically revolves around smoking the flowers, but that’s not the only way to use Cannabis Products. Hemp-Based CBD Products in particular have blossomed (pun intended) in recent years, offering a wide variety of consumption alternatives. Tejada lists Sublingual Tinctures (drops of liquid under the tongue), “Vapes” for inhalation, Edible Gummies and Topical Pain-relief Creams that are popular with the elderly. Cannabis also is a major ingredient in Alice B. Toklas’ Brownies. Alice was the life-mate of Author Gertrude Stein, who reigned over the Parisian Literary Scene between the two World Wars. Google “Alice B. Toklas’ Brownies” to find thousands of entries about this confection. If you make these brownies with Marijuana, limit consumption and beware of the unintended side effects. Hemp is kinder and gentler in this regard. Tejada says his Miracle Leaf store in Hallandale Beach has over 2,000 regular customers. Some are Tobacco smokers who view Miracle Leaf’s CBD Products as a desirable alternative, while others use CBD Products while waiting for their medical Marijuana Cards and Recommendations. “We’re not a Medical Marijuana Dispensary,” he emphasizes, “but we do have Certified Marijuana Physicians on staff to provide assistance to people who come in with specific medical needs. “Most of our customers are older than 45. Cannabis is not just for the young. The elderly have been able to connect with the use of Cannabis. We can’t make medical claims for a cure, but we have been able to help many patients with medical conditions to alleviate their symptoms.” For Fido and Tabby Many pet owners give CBD Products to their dogs and cats, Tejada says. Signs your Canine and Feline friends may benefit from CBD include Arthritis and other Inflammatory Ailments, Chronic Pain, Digestive Tract Upsets, Kidney and Liver Ailments, Separation Anxiety when you leave home and the fear of thunder and other loud noises. Also, while it’s not a cure, CBD may prolong and improve the quality of life for elderly Dogs and Cats with Cancer and other Terminal Conditions. CBD Products sold specifically for Pets include Capsules and Chews, Peanut Butter, Tinctures, Treats and Topical Preparations such as shampoos and balms. Resist the temptation to give your Pets the same products you use, Tejada advises. Look for products specifically formulated and lab tested for Pets and Organically Sourced, which mean they come from Pesticide-FREE Hemp Plants. Dosage depends on your Pet’s size, weight and individual body chemistry. While product packaging and your Veterinarian may offer guidelines, every Pet is different, so start slowly and work up to an Optimal Dosage. National Cannabis Day National Cannabis Day originated with five California high school students who met at 4:20 p.m. on April 20th, 1971, to smoke Marijuana. Today it’s an International Counter-Culture Holiday and an opportunity for the Cannabis Industry to showcase its products and services. “The Industry gives back to the community with big promotions and sales,” Tejada says, adding that Miracle Leaf always participates in the observance in a big way. For more information, contact: Miracle Leaf 600 West Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. Phone: (954) 589-0159 E-mail: hallandale@miracleleaffl.com Web-Site: www.miracleleaffl.com Hours: Mon - Fri 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sat 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed On Sunday. < Previous News Next News >