Step Into Wonderland With ‘It’s Always 6 O’Clock': Chef Experience Dinner At Arc Culinary's Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen Thu Sep 12 2024 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Attention Condo Residents: A New Regulation Will Impact Every Condominium With Three Stories or More Thu Jul 14 2022 04:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Splash into Summer at The Beach: Sound Waves & Ocean Waves Will Fill The Air In Fort Lauderdale Fri May 17 2024 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Summer Season Is Deal Season - South Florida Restaurants And Hotels Plan To Offer Locals Hospitality Perks, And Sizzling Savings By John Bernardo Jun 18, 2026 Summer Is Returning And That’s Actually Good News For Local Individuals And Families On Tight Budgets That Are Looking To Save Some Money. Hence, That’s Because This Year, South Florida Restaurants And Hotels Plan To Offer Them Discounts. Below is a detailed list of some restaurants and hotels in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties that are providing local folks hospitality, perks, and sizzling, summer deals. In Pompano Beach, restaurants offering locals summer dining discounts include Seaside Grill & Tiki Bar (1406 North Ocean Boulevard) and Rossitto’s Italian Gourmet & Eatery (2663 East Atlantic Boulevard). Moreover, people can take advantage of Restaurant People Locations, which is a program meaning that when local guests buy an annual “Locals Only” discount card, they can get 10% off their entire bill. More information, call: the Greater Fort Lauderdale & Convention Visitors Bureau at: (954) 765–4466. In Fort Lauderdale, Dine Out Lauderdale, a discount diner program, which will be running from Saturday, August 1st, 2026 to Wednesday, September 30th, 2026 and will give local residents dining deals at over 100 restaurants. This program offers locals $35 prix-fixe lunches and $45-$75 multi-course dinners. Some of Dine Out Lauderdale’s participating eateries include Daniel’s, A Florida Steakhouse (620 South Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale), Boatyard (seafood restaurant at 1555 Southeast 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale) Heritage (known for its Italian dishes & pizzas, 903 Northeast 5th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale), and Olive & Sea (1881 Southeast 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale). More information, call: (800) 226–6622. In Hollywood, residents can partake in the Residents Awards Wednesday program, where participating restaurants offer a 15% discount every Wednesday to anyone showing a valid government-issued ID with a Hollywood address. Some popular restaurants participating in this Hollywood-designed program include: The Greek Joint Kitchen & Bar (1925 Hollywood Boulevard), Krakatoa Indonesian Cuisine (1910 B Hollywood Boulevard), and Le Tub Saloon (1110 North Ocean Drive). For decades, Le Tub has been famous for its giant char-broiled burgers. For more info on the Residents Awards Wednesday program, call the City of Hollywood at: (954) 921–3620. Yet besides Broward’s restaurants, locals can also get discounts on hotels there. For example, in Deerfield Beach, Embassy Suites by Hilton Deerfield Beach Resort & Spa, 950 South Ocean Drive, offers all-suite, beachfront rooms for locals. The hotel sets locals up with a “Staycation” that includes up to a 5% discount off the best available rate, complimentary self-parking, and a $25 daily resort credit. More information, call: (954) 426 – 0478. Additionally, Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort, 2096 Northeast 2nd Street, typically offers local residents 10-15% off during the summer months. More information, call: (954) 428–2850. In Pompano Beach, the Executive Economy Lodge, 555 South Federal Hwy., is offering local residents a summer 2026 weekly promotion featuring a 7-day stay for $550, which includes all taxes and fees. More information, call: (954) 943–0920. Furthermore, Sands Harbor Resort & Marina, 125 North Riverside Drive, will provide locals 20% off their best flexible rate. A valid Florida ID or proof of residency is required at check-in. Additional information, call: (954) 942–9100. Simultaneously, hotels in Fort Lauderdale will slash rates for local individuals and families this summer. One contributing hotel is the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale on 525 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard. This resort on Fort Lauderdale Beach offers a Florida Staycation Residents Rate that often includes special room discounts and complimentary valet parking for staying local. More information, call: (754) 336–3100. Another hotel in Fort Lauderdale, Sun Tower Hotel & Suites at 2030 North Ocean Boulevard. offers local guests discounts around 10% off the available rate when they book directly and show their government ID. More information, call: (954) 565 – 5700. Moreover, the Pelican Grand Beach Resort at 2000 North Ocean Boulevard offers summer promotions featuring daily breakfast, resort credits, and package upgrades for Florida residents. More information, call: (954) 622–8417. In Hollywood, the Diplomat Beach Resort, 3555 South Ocean Drive, will provide up to 15% off the best available rate for standard rooms and up to 20% off on suites, plus a daily resort credit. More information, call: (954) 602 – 6000. And Costa Hollywood Beach Resort, 777 North Ocean Drive, offers up to 15% for Florida residents with a valid ID. More information, call: (954) 777–6784. Also, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, 1111 North Ocean Drive, provides up to 20% off room rates and a resort credit. More information, call: (954) 874–4444. In addition to what people can get discount wise regarding restaurants and hotels in Broward County, Miami-Dade County offers deals to locals. Regarding restaurants, Wednesday, July 1st, 2026 to Friday, July 31st, 2026 will mark: “Taste the Gables Restaurants Month.” During July, Coral Gables hosts a month-long dining celebration featuring a diverse mix of over 50 casual and fine dining establishments. Participating locations will have curated, discounted prix-fixe menus and promotional offers. Additional info, visit the Taste the Gables guide for a list of participating restaurants. Then beginning on Saturday, August 1st, 2026 and continuing until Wednesday, September 30th, 2026, Miami-Dade and Broward diners can enjoy Miami Spice Restaurant Months. Miami Spice Restaurant Months is the region’s biggest summer dining promotion where hundreds of restaurants across Miami-Dade offer heavily discounted, three-course prix-fixe menus for lunch/brunch and dinner. Lunches and brunches are normally priced around $35, while dinners are $45 or $60. Some eateries that fall under Miami Spice Restaurant Months include: Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse (2980 Northeast 207th Street in Aventura, call: (305) 912-1266), Soya Sushi Bar (11402 Northwest 41st Street in Doral, call: (305) 800–7692), and Cafe Prima Pasta, (414 71st Street in Miami Beach, call: (305) 867–0106). For more information on the Miami Spice Restaurant deals, visit the official Miami Spice Restaurant Months page to browse participating eateries and menus once they are released. Along with restaurants, there are several hotels in Miami-Dade County that plan to give locals price breaks on room rates. Discounts generally range from 10% to 30% off flexible rates and a valid state ID is required at check-in. Just to name a few of them: JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort and Spa, 19999 West Country Club Drive in Aventura, offers up to 15% off room rates and free overnight self-parking. More information, call: (855) 999–0493. In Doral, Trump National Doral Miami, 4400 Northwest 87th Avenue, is offering locals up to 20% off the best unrestricted room rates, resort discounts, and will be waiving pet fees and late check-outs. More information, call: (305) 592–2000. In Coconut Grove, Mayfair House Hotel & Garden, 3000 Florida Avenue, presents locals with the “Live Like a Local” package that combines discounted rates with resort amenities. Some perks consist of a complimentary a la carte breakfast, 15 % off food and no charge for bike rentals. More information, call: (305) 441–0000. In downtown Miami, the YVE Hotel on 146 Biscayne Boulevard across from Bayfront Park, will provide a local resident discount ranging from 10% to 25% off flexible rates. Locals must show their photo ID. Additional info, call: (305) 358–4555. Last but not least, in Miami Beach, Clinton Hotel South Beach, 825 Washington Avenue, provides up to 15% off for locals, along with free Wi-Fi, daily coffee, and upgrades based on availability. More information, call: (305) 938–4040. Previous Next

Ellie’s Army Foundation: Dirty Socks 5K Run And Walkathon To Benefit Children And Young Adults February 21, 2024 Share Ellie Levy’s life was about teaching everyone about compassion and caring - while suffering from Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a terminal genetic disease that primarily affects the lungs. What Ellie and her family saw, from the beginning, were people hurting - and it affected all of them in a way that many of us could ever understand. During Ellie’s many hospitalizations, Stacey and Brian Levy began to meet far too many parents struggling to keep their children alive due to limited financial resources. This is something that many in this nation never have the chance to see - and convey it to those who may one day do something about a parent who can’t afford to pay for life-saving medications because they have no money for copayments, or for crucial nutritional supplements or necessary therapies, because they were not covered by insurance. Parents should not have to choose between keeping their child alive and paying their Electric or Mortgage/Rent Bills. So, in 2001, in response to what they saw and watched others endure, the Levy’s created the Reach for the Stars Foundation in 2001 to benefit individuals with CF. Fourteen years later, in March of 2014, Ellie was 22 years old and suffering from the end stages of Cystic Fibrosis. She received a Double-Lung Transplant, but within a week, her new lungs were failing and she was re-listed for another set of lungs. Against all odds, she endured a second transplant on April 15th. During her recovery, Ellie met another young woman who also needed a Lung Transplant, but was unable to meet the financial criteria to be accepted into the Transplant Program. At that moment, Ellie decided that when she was well, she would focus her efforts on providing other young people with the money necessary to stay alive. Sadly, on November 5th, 2014, Ellie Levy passed away. In her honor, the memory of Ellie Levy indeed lives on - as her foundation name was changed to Ellie’s Army Foundation in 2017. The foundation has expanded its mission to assist not only those afflicted with Cystic Fibrosis, but children and young adults suffering from all critical illnesses. Why Dirty Socks? The inspiration behind the “Dirty Socks” event was Ellie’s surgeon (Gustavo), who told her in order to survive her Lung Transplant, she would have to walk. Despite the pain, Ellie walked and walked and walked, often exceeding her surgeon’s expectations - and to prove her hard work, Gustavo wanted to see the bottom of her socks. If they were dirty, she was doing what was told. So, despite the pain, Ellie walked and walked and walked. She was a Warrior! “Ellie gave her surgeon a bag with her dirty socks in it. He said that he will keep her socks in his office for the rest of his life. Ellie inspired him with her determination, her desire to live and her fight.” All children in the hospital wear medical socks and must walk to get well. Sometimes they can only take a few steps. At the Dirty Socks 5K Run & Walkathon we walk for them. We walk for Ellie. By taking part in the Dirty Socks 5K & Walkathon, you are walking for those who fight the fight every day - and paying tribute to Ellie Levy, who helped to bring awareness to a disease that many knew nothing about. Ellie’s Army Foundation is hosting the Dirty Socks 5K Run & Walkathon to benefit children and young adults battling life-threatening illnesses. The Foundation provides financial resources for families of children and young adults battling life-threatening illnesses. Ellie’s Army Foundation helps pay for medical expenses, insurance copayments, therapies, or daily living expenses such as housing payments, energy costs, utility bills, etc. Now more than ever these families are struggling. Be a Warrior, come get your socks dirty! For more information, visit: www.Elliesarmy.org - Or: www.Dirtysocks.org < Previous News Next News >

Dermot Kennedy: The Sonder Tour: The Concert Promises to Be a Celebration of The Power of Music Tue May 16 2023 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Alleviate The Burden - Treating Type 1 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease Has Now Changed Thu Dec 19 2024 19:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Life Well-Lived: Eleanor Hannan Celebrates Her 104th Birthday March 22, 2024 Share Eleanor, a beloved Hollywood Resident, recently celebrated her 104th Birthday amidst a flurry of admiration and well-wishes from friends, family, and the community at large. Known for her vibrant personality, sharp wit, and enduring passion for the Arts, Eleanor's milestone birthday served as a testament to a life well-lived and a spirit that continues to inspire those around her. Throughout her long and illustrious life, Eleanor has worn many hats, each contributing to the rich tapestry of her experiences. As a longtime Resident of Hollywood, she has witnessed the ebb and flow of the Entertainment Industry, its stars rising and falling like constellations in the night sky. Her intimate connection to Hollywood's glitz and glamor has been further solidified by her stint as an Entertainment Columnist for the South Florida Sun Times, where her insightful commentary and keen observations captivated readers and critics alike. Beyond her contributions to the world of journalism, Eleanor's professional endeavors extend into the realm of Real Estate, where she enjoyed a successful career as a Realtor. With her characteristic warmth and charm, she guided countless clients through the intricate process of buying and selling homes, earning their trust and admiration along the way. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and unparalleled work ethic set her apart in a competitive industry, earning her accolades and recognition from peers and clients alike. However, it is not merely Eleanor's professional accomplishments that have endeared her to the hearts of those who know her best. It is her indomitable spirit, her zest for life, and her boundless enthusiasm for the arts that truly define her character. To Eleanor, life is a stage, and she has embraced her role with grace, dignity, and a touch of theatrical flair. "See you at the theatre," she would often exclaim, her eyes twinkling with anticipation and excitement. For Eleanor, the theatre was more than just a venue for entertainment; it was a sacred space where stories came to life, where dreams took flight, and where the human experience was laid bare for all to see. Whether attending a Broadway production or a local community theater performance, Eleanor approached each outing with the same childlike wonder and infectious enthusiasm, her love for the stage has never diminished by the passage of time. As friends gathered to celebrate Eleanor's 104th Birthday, the air was filled with laughter, music, and the glow of Eleanor's radiant smile. It was a moment of pure joy, a celebration of a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure for generations to come. Here's to Eleanor Hannan, a true 'Florida's Hollywood' Legend, whose light continues to shine brightly, illuminating the hearts of all who are fortunate enough to know her. Happy 104th Birthday, Eleanor – may your days be filled with laughter, love, and endless encore performances. "See You At The Theatre!” < Previous News Next News >

The Berry Farm Announces 6th Annual Strawberry Festival South Florida Sun Times Jan 21, 2026 Strawberry Season Returns To Miami’s Countryside As The Berry Farm Announces Its 6th Annual Strawberry Festival, Running From Saturday, January 24th, 2026 Through Sunday, February 22nd, 2026. A Seasonal Tradition Families Look Forward To Year After Year, Strawberry Festival Brings Together Fresh Farm-Grown Strawberries, Weekend Events, Live Music, And Interactive Experiences Celebrating Food, Community, And The Outdoors. Throughout the festival, guests can enjoy a rotating lineup of voter-choice events on select Sundays, paired with live music and family-friendly weekend fun. For these voter-choice events, The Berry Farm provides participating chefs, bakers, and brewers with farm-grown strawberries and select produce (when applicable), inspiring creative dishes and drinks ranging from strawberry-infused ceviche and desserts to berry-forward brews. The Berry Farm is proud to partner with Beat Culture as the official alcohol partner, serving beer and wine during Strawberry Festival weekend events throughout the season. Festival Weekends & Signature Events Saturday, January 24th, 2026 – Sunday, January 25th, 2026 | Seafood Fest — Sunday, January 25, 2026 Participating chefs prepare shrimp ceviche using farm-grown strawberries and produce provided by The Berry Farm. Guests enjoy samples and vote for their favorite dish in this interactive voter-choice event. • Live Music: Orlando Mendez Band | 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturday, January 31st, 2026 – Sunday, February 1st, 2026 | Berry Beer Fest — Sunday, February 1st, 2026 Local breweries craft beer using The Berry Farm’s strawberries. Guests sample and vote for the crowd favorite in this voter-choice experience. • Live Music: TILT Music | 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturday, February 7th, 2026 – Sunday, February 8th, 2026 A classic Strawberry Festival weekend featuring fresh strawberries, Smokes BBQ, and all the farm’s favorite attractions. Saturday, February 14th, 2026 – Sunday, February 15th, 2026 | Taste of the Fields — Sunday, February 15th, 2026 Local bakers create strawberry-inspired desserts using farm-grown strawberries provided by The Berry Farm. Guests enjoy samples and vote throughout the afternoon. • Live Music: Bandana Brothers | 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturday, February 21st, 2026 – Sunday, February 22nd, 2026 | BBQ Competition #2 (Brisket) — Sunday, February 22nd, 2026 A judged BBQ competition featuring skilled pitmasters. This is a purchase-only event — guests may buy BBQ directly from competitors. No samples are provided, and winners are selected by a judging panel. How Voter-Choice Events Work For voter-choice events, guests enjoy samples and cast their vote for their favorite creation. BBQ Cook-Off events are purchase-only, judged competitions with no sampling. A Strawberry Festival Tradition - 6 Years Strong Now in its sixth year, Strawberry Festival has become one of The Berry Farm’s most anticipated seasonal traditions. By pairing farm-grown ingredients, interactive voter-choice events, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere, the festival continues to celebrate creativity, local talent, and community — season after season. Guests are invited to plan their visit and experience Strawberry Festival, where fresh flavor, local creativity, and tradition come together in Miami’s countryside. For tickets, event details, and full schedules, visit visittheberryfarm.com . Previous Next

Fit And Fun Aventura: Happy One Year of Zumba In The Park May 16, 2023 Share The City of Aventura is known for its beautiful homes, world-renowned shopping centers, and luxurious lifestyle. But did you know that the city also offers Complimentary Zumba Classes to its residents? That's right! The city is encouraging its residents of all ages to stay fit and healthy by participating in this fun fitness program. The Zumba Program in Aventura is led by a certified Zumba instructor who teaches aerobic movements and Latin dance steps. This combination makes for a fun and exciting workout routine that is not only beneficial for the body but also for the mind. The program aims to make exercise a more enjoyable and less daunting task, especially for those who are not fond of traditional gym workouts. Zumba is a form of exercise that originated in Colombia in the 1990’s and has since gained popularity all over the world. It involves dance and aerobic movements set to lively Latin music, making it a perfect way to get moving while having fun. It is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that can help you burn calories and improve your endurance. Moreover, it is low-impact, making it an ideal workout for people of all ages and fitness levels. The City of Aventura recognizes the importance of staying active and healthy, and it is committed to providing its residents with opportunities to do so. The Complimentary Zumba Program is one of the many initiatives aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle among its residents. By offering this program, the city hopes to encourage more people to get active and take charge of their health. The Zumba Program is not only beneficial for Physical Health, but it also has Mental Health Benefits. Dancing is a form of self-expression that can help reduce Stress, Anxiety, and Depression. Moreover, it can boost self-confidence and improve overall mood. Participating in the program is an excellent way to meet new people and make friends, which can further enhance one's mental well-being. If you're interested in participating in the Complimentary Zumba Program, there are a few things you need to know. First, the program is open to all Aventura residents, regardless of their age or fitness level. So, whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or a beginner, you're welcome to join. Second, the program is led by a certified Zumba instructor, which means you're in good hands. The instructor will guide you through the movements and ensure that you're doing them correctly to avoid any injuries. Third, you should bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the workout. The program can be intense, so it's essential to drink plenty of water to avoid Dehydration. So, if you're an Aventura resident looking for a fun way to stay fit and healthy, be sure to check out this fantastic program every Thursday at 9:00 a.m. at Founders Park, 3105 Northeast 190th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Registration Registration is open and spots are limited. All participants must be registered prior to attending. Registration can be completed exclusively online only with a valid and existing account at: www.cityofaventura.com/ors Remember to bring a positive attitude and a refillable water bottle, and get ready to dance your way to better health! For more information, visit: www.cityofaventura.com - Contact Founders Park at: (305) 466-0183. Or: parksrec@cityofaventura.com . < Previous News Next News >

Let's Feed South Florida: Inaugural Gala To Raise Crucial Funds To Fight Food Insecurity August 8, 2024 Share Feeding South Florida – The Leading Hunger-Relief Organization in South Florida – will host its Inaugural Black-Tie Gala, with the theme of Emerald Peacock, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Saturday, November 16th, 2024. The event, presented by Ryder System Inc., will kick off with a Cocktail Reception at 6:00 p.m. followed by a three-course dinner in the Grand Ballroom. South Florida’s top community leaders, philanthropists and influencers will be among the 500 guests who will enjoy dinner, dancing, live entertainment, an engaging program and more to raise crucial funds to fight food insecurity in South Florida. Currently, in South Florida, there are more than 1.2 million food insecure individuals. One in nine individuals in South Florida remain uncertain about where they will get their next meal due to inflation, the strained supply chain, rising fuel prices and increased housing costs among other factors. Proceeds raised during the event will allow Feeding South Florida to fulfill its mission to end hunger in South Florida by providing immediate access to nutritious food, leading hunger and poverty advocacy efforts and transforming lives through innovative programming and education. The Gala will be Co-Chaired by Steve Stowe, Vice President and Executive Director of the Miami HEAT Charitable Fund and Stephanie Wicky, Vice President of Marketing at Ryder Systems, Inc. Celebrated Entertainment Reporter Lisa Petrillo of CBS News Miami will emcee the event. Supporters will also have the opportunity to sponsor a Feeding South Florida family through donations and participate in a silent auction featuring high-end items and exceptional luxury experiences. “We’re excited to host our Inaugural Gala,” says Paco Velez, President & CEO of Feeding South Florida. “We are incredibly grateful for the support of our Co-Chairs Steve Stowe and Stephanie Wicky, our Board Members and our donors who are committed to our mission to end food insecurity in South Florida. The event will help us continue to raise much-needed funds to put food on the table for South Florida families who need it the most.” “Feeding South Florida’s Inaugural Annual Gala promises to be a truly spectacular evening,” adds Wicky. “I’m honored to Co-Chair this event, as we work together to nourish our neighbors in need and make a significant impact. South Florida is an extremely generous community and hosting an evening that will celebrate all the great work that Feeding South Florida has done, while raising awareness and funds for the future impact the organization will continue to make is sure to be a success.” “I am honored to serve as Co-Chair for the Feeding South Florida’s Inaugural Gala,” says Stowe. “I am proud to have worked with this incredible organization that has been making an indelible difference in the lives of so many South Floridians for so many years. We look forward to enjoying an exceptional evening of entertainment, dancing, and dinner while raising crucial funds for Feeding South Florida’s families who are facing food insecurity.” Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is located at 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, Florida 33314. Black-Tie Attire is required. Gala Sponsorships and Underwriting Opportunities are now available. Sponsorships range from $2,500 to $100,000. Individual tickets are available for $650. For more information about sponsorships or underwriting opportunities, please visit: https://e.givesmart.com/events/BJa/ - Or contact Lenai Mejia via email at: lenai@thrivewithcloud9.com . Or via phone at: (754) 432-7074. Extension#: 702. Feeding South Florida Feeding South Florida is a member of the Feeding America Network and is the Leading Hunger-Relief Organization serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe Counties. Providing support for 25 percent of the state’s food insecure population, its mission is to end hunger in South Florida by providing immediate access to nutritious food, leading hunger, and poverty advocacy efforts, and transforming lives through innovative programming and education. Feeding South Florida served more than *1.17 million individuals through Direct-Service Programs and a local network of more than 350 NonProfit and Community Partners. Visit: www.feedingsouthflorida.org . Or call: (954) 518-1818. < Previous News Next News >

A New Year – A New Venezuela? By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper Jan 7, 2026 Happy New Year! It Has Been A Crazy Few Weeks, Nationally! I Joined With The Many Floridians Who Are Thrilled To See Maduro Behind Bars Where He Belongs. Even When Biden And Harris Were In Office, They Issued A Bounty Of $25 Million For Information That Would Lead To His Arrest. In July, Trump Doubled It. Political Posturing Cannot Change The Fact This Is A Welcomed Event For So Many Of Our Residents That Fled Venezuela. I know so many people that have shared stories of their businesses being torn away from them. Large and small, simply in a government takeover. Guised as independence and a better life for all simply became another failed nation like Cuba. Family businesses that employed many citizens shuttered. Democracy gone and trampled. I had the chance to visit Venezuela on a cruise years ago when the government began taking over stores. At first, it was recommended not to get off the ship, but I wanted to witness what was taking place. We hired a professional driver that did not leave our side. There were lines in front of every store. We drove to a shopping mall that was about the size of the old Broward Mall. It was right before Christmas, but the lot was virtually empty. It was really eerie, almost post-apocalyptic, the three of us walked about 20 minutes in the mall with most shops shuttered. The ones that were open had their gates partly closed for safety. I went into one which sold cosmetics to check the prices. In U.S. Dollars, a simple bottle of Calvin Klein was $375 Dollars. The only store with a line was a toy store. The gate was closed and opened, only allowing a few buyers in at a time. We drove a bit further to a restaurant on the water. It was lovely and the only place that was crowded. We had to insist that our driver remain and eat with us as workers were not allowed. They had to eat outside. I am sharing this due to the fact that many people have an opinion, but they do not have experience. They go off of online commentary without knowledge and worse without facts. Sure, these are historic times. Yes, there is uncertainty, but it is the right thing. Could you imagine our police officers coming to a commission meeting and having to tell us they are doing a drug raid? I do not think so. Even with the shock and awe Maduro knew his days were numbered. The question remains how long will the newly sworn in President remain in power. 283 of the officials who won the election last May were sworn in. The one main problem is that these are still mostly Marxist and socialist. According to reports there will be some time until a new election, but America will be working to get the country back on its feet. The oil companies’ involvement which is being called out as Trump takeover of the nation’s oil assets is not the full picture. Actually, it's Exxon and Mobile going back in and taking back over the assets they owned that were stripped away in 2007 without just compensation. If helping the economy helps the people of Venezuela it will be all worth it. Let’s hope the plan works and the country does get back on its feet. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text: (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