The State of Our Nation: Still Divided & Locked Down By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead July 29, 2021 Share “Take the United States of America in the year 2021, which is not so far different from the United States of America during the Civil Rights era, or the Cold War era, or even the Depression era.” John W. Whitehead “A house divided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure, permanently, half slave and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved — I do not expect the house to fall — but I do expect it will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing or all the other.” — Abraham Lincoln History has a funny way of circling back on itself. The facts, figures, faces and technology may change from era to era, but the dangers remain the same. This year is no different, whatever the politicians and talking heads may say to the contrary. Sure, there’s a new guy in charge, but for the most part, we’re still recycling the same news stories that have kept us with one eye warily glued to the news for the past 100-odd years: War. Corruption. Brutality. Economic instability. Partisan politics. Militarism. Disease. Hunger. Greed. Violence. Poverty. Ignorance. Hatred. The more things change, the more they stay the same. Brush up on your history and you’ll find that we’ve been stuck on repeat for some time now. Take the United States of America in the year 2021, which is not so far different from the United States of America during the Civil Rights era, or the Cold War era, or even the Depression era. Go far enough afield, and you’ll find aspects of our troubled history mirrored in the totalitarianism of Nazi Germany, in the fascism of Mussolini’s Italy, and further back in the militarism of the Roman Empire. We’re like TV weatherman Phil Connors in Harold Ramis’ classic 1993 comedy Groundhog Day, forced to live the same day over and over again. Here in the American police state, however, we continue to wake up, hoping each new day, new president and new year will somehow be different from what has come before. Unfortunately, no matter how we change the narrative, change the characters, change the plot lines, we seem to keep ending up in the same place that we started: enslaved, divided and repeating the mistakes of the past. You want to know about the true State of our Nation? Listen up. The State of the Union: The state of our nation is politically polarized, controlled by forces beyond the purview of the average American, and rapidly moving the nation away from its freedom foundation. Over the past year, due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans have found themselves repeatedly subjected to egregious civil liberties violations, invasive surveillance, martial law, lockdowns, political correctness, erosions of free speech, strip searches, police shootings of unarmed citizens, government spying, the criminalization of lawful activities, warmongering, etc. The predators of the police state have wreaked havoc on our freedoms, our communities, and our lives. The government does not listen to the citizenry, refuses to abide by the Constitution, and treats taxpayers as a source of funding and little else. Police officers shoot unarmed citizens and their household pets. Govern-ment agents - including local police - remain armed to the teeth and act like soldiers on a battlefield. Bloated government agencies continue to fleece taxpayers. Government technicians spy on our emails and phone calls. And government contractors make a killing by waging endless wars abroad. Consequently, the state of our nation remains bureaucratic, debt-ridden, violent, militarized, fascist, lawless, invasive, corrupt, untrustworthy, mired in war, and unresponsive to the wishes and needs of the electorate. The policies of the American police state continue unabated. The Executive Branch: All of the imperial powers amassed by Donald Trump, Barack Obama and George W. Bush were inherited by Joe Biden. Biden has these powers because every successive occupant of the Oval Office has been allowed to expand the reach and power of the presidency through the use of executive orders, decrees, memorandums, proclamations, national security directives and legislative signing statements that can be activated by any sitting president. The Legislative Branch: Congress may well be the most self-serving, semi-corrupt institution in America. Pork barrel spending, hastily passed legislation, partisan bickering, a skewed work ethic, graft and moral turpitude have all contributed to the public’s increasing dissatisfaction with congressional leadership. No wonder only 31 percent of Americans approve of the job Congress is doing. The Judicial Branch: The Supreme Court was intended to be an institution established to intervene and protect the people against the government and its agents when they overstep their bounds. Yet through their deference to police power, preference for security over freedom, and evisceration of our most basic rights for the sake of order and expediency, the justices of the United States Supreme Court have become the guardians of the American police state in which we now live. Shadow Government: Joe Biden inherited more than a bitterly divided nation teetering on the brink of financial catastrophe when he assumed office. He also inherited a shadow government, one that is fully operational and staffed by unelected officials who are, in essence, running the country. Referred to as the Deep State, this shadow government is comprised of unelected government bureaucrats, corporations, contractors, paper-pushers, and button-pushers who are actually calling the shots behind the scenes right now. Law Enforcement: Having been given the green light to probe, poke, pinch, taser, search, seize, strip and generally manhandle anyone they see fit in almost any circumstance, all with the general blessing of the courts, America’s law enforcement officials are part of an elite ruling class dependent on keeping the masses corralled, under control, and treated like suspects and enemies of the state. A Suspect Surveillance Society: Every dystopian sci-fi film we’ve ever seen is suddenly converging into this present moment in a dangerous trifecta between science, technology and a government that wants to be all-seeing, all-knowing and all-powerful. I haven’t even touched on the corporate state, the military industrial complex, SWAT team raids, invasive surveillance technology, zero tolerance policies in the schools, overcriminalization, or privatized prisons, to name just a few. However, what I have touched on should be enough to show that the landscape of our freedoms has already changed dramatically from what it once was and will no doubt continue to deteriorate unless Americans can find a way to wrest back control of their government and reclaim their freedoms. Certainly, we have moved beyond the era of representative government and entered a new age: the age of authoritarianism. Even with its constantly shifting terrain, this topsy-turvy travesty of law and government has become America’s new normal. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and its fictional counterpart, The Erik Blair Diaries, when we lose sight of the true purpose of government - to protect our rights - and fail to keep the government in its place as our servant, we allow the government to overstep its bounds and become a tyrant that rules by brute force. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an attorney and author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of constitutional law, human rights and popular culture. John Whitehead's commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org . Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org < Previous News Next News >

"Winter Wonderland" Returns To The Miami Airport - Festive Family Fun Event To Feature Santa Claus, Interactive Activities And Food Trucks December 12, 2024 Share Tri-Rail is excited to announce the return of its Annual “Winter Wonderland” presented by Herzog from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., on Saturday, December 14th, at the Miami Airport Station, located at 3861 Northwest 21st Street, Miami, Florida 33142. This FREE event invites families from across South Florida to enjoy a festive day packed with activities, including interactive games, food trucks, face painting, cookie decorating, bounce houses, a balloon station, a coloring station, holiday characters, photo opportunities with Tri-Rail’s beloved mascot Conductor George Green, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. “We love getting into the holiday spirit with Tri-Rail’s ‘Winter Wonderland,’” said David Dech, Executive Director of SFRTA/Tri-Rail. "We invite all families across South Florida to hop on board the train and come to our festive event to create special memories this holiday season." The event will feature live holiday music by the South Florida Chamber Ensemble and onstage performances by Santa Claus and the Mouse-tacular Holiday Celebration show. Guests can also enjoy engaging activities hosted by local organizations and attractions including HistoryMiami Museum, Museum of Discovery and Science, Florida Panthers, Gold Coast Railroad Museum, City of Miami Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum, and City of Miami. Attendees will have photo opportunities with Tri-Rail’s Conductor George Green and can purchase food from BurgerFi, I Love Panzerotti, and Emmy Beth’s Ice Cream. Event Goers are encouraged to ride the train to the event. The first 100 riders to visit the Tri-Rail booth at the event will receive a free gift. Weekend fares are $5 to ride Tri-Rail for the entire day or $2.50 for those who have a registered discount EASY Card. Kids under 5 years old ride for free. To learn more about Tri-Rail’s “Winter Wonderland” presented by Herzog, visit: www.tri-rail.com . For train schedules and more information, call: 1 (800) TRI-RAIL - 1 (800) 874-7245. About Tri-Rail Tri-Rail, South Florida’s premier commuter rail system, serves Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties with 19 conveniently located train stations. Service is available every day of the year including holidays. Transit buses, Metrorail and other connections are available to get riders to their final destinations. For more information about Tri-Rail, visit: www.tri-rail.com - 1 (800) TRI-RAIL - 1 (800) 874-7245. < Previous News Next News >

Audiences Of All Ages: Invited to Celebrate The Season with Beloved Traditional Holiday Music December 1, 2022 Share A beloved holiday musical tradition is returning to South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO)! Sebrina Maria Alfonso will conduct Handel’s glorious holiday favorite, Messiah! This beloved seasonal masterpiece featuring soloists Neil Nelson, bass baritone; Gerardo Ortega, tenor; Brittany Graham, soprano; Stephanie Newman, mezzo-soprano and the South Florida Symphony Chorus will commence on December 3, at 7:30 p.m., at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale and on December 4, at 4 p.m., at Barry University in Miami. Smithsonian magazine writes, “A musical rite of the holiday season, the Baroque-era oratorio still awes listeners 250 years after the composer’s death.” Handel’s popular work, which draws from the Christian Lent and Easter stories, encompasses a musical narrative brilliance that transcends belief systems.” “South Florida Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to bring back Handel’s Messiah and share the joy of time-honored classics to launch the holiday season in grand musical style,” said Jacqueline Lorber, President and CEO of South Florida Symphony Orchestra. “With soaring vocals, masterful arrangements and compelling storytelling, this presentation is truly an inspirational musical experience for the whole family.” To elevate the holiday spirit, the evening opens with glorious sounds of the season, including Schubert’s Ave Maria; Pietro Yon’s Italian Christmas carol, “Gesù Bambino;” Mendelssohn’s “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” and more followed by Part I of Handel’s Messiah. The performance culminates with the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus as sung by the South Florida Symphony Chorus, made-up of seasoned chorale singers and community talent. The Chorus is conducted by Dr. Giselle Elgarresta Rios, who will also lead the orchestra at the December 4 concert at Barry University. Rios and Maestra Alfonso collaborated to create the South Florida Symphony Chorus in 2019, which made its debut at the Beethoven 250th celebration in February of 2020. The esteemed South Florida Symphony, celebrating its 25th anniversary of artistic excellence, launched its 2022/23 season on November 9 at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale and on November 10 New World Center in Miami Beach. This outstanding season will feature classical masterworks including Shostakovich’s final “War Symphony,” No. 9, Brahms’s doubly demanding Concerto for Violin and Cello and an all-Dvořák program with audience favorite – and performer during the Symphony’s inaugural concert - Zuill Bailey. Additionally, honoring its commitment to presenting new works, SFSO will present its third world premiere by composer-in-residence John Gottsch: the Florida-inspired Ocklawaha. The South Florida Symphony Chorus will expand its repertoire, once again, performing one of the greatest large chorale works of its day, Bruckner’s majestic Te Deum. Tickets for Handel’s Messiah start at $15 for the December 3 concert at The Parker is located at 707 Northeast 8th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 and can be purchased online at: https://southfloridasymphony.org/handels-messiah Or via the Broward Center for the Performing Arts Box Office at: (954) 462-0222. Tickets start at $20 for the December 4 performance at Barry University’s Shepard & Ruth K. Broad Performing Arts Center (11300 NE 2nd Ave in Miami Shores) and can be ordered online at https://southfloridasymphony.org/handels-messiah or via phone at (954) 522-8445. Student tickets and group rates are also available by calling (954) 522-8445 or emailing info@southfloridasymphony.org . About South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, the now Wilton Manors-based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is celebrating its 25th anniversary season. SFSO is dedicated to providing enriching cultural music experiences to residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative programming and transformative educational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communities, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of 100,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO was recently named the first Partner in the Arts for The Parker by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored. For a performance schedule and season tickets, visit: www.southfloridasymphony.org Or call: (954) 522-8445 Or email at: info@southfloridasymphony.org < Previous News Next News >

Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off for Hollywood Residents May 17, 2024 Share On Saturday, May 18th and Sunday, May 19th, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon each day, the City of Hollywood is hosting a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) recycling event at the Public Works facility located at: 1600 S. Park Road. This event offers Hollywood residents an opportunity to dispose of hazardous materials safely. Public Works staff, along with authorized vendors specializing in hazardous material handling, will set up convenient drop-off stations exclusively for Hollywood residents. Businesses and contractors are not eligible. Residents should bring valid identification that clearly indicates a Hollywood address. Resident verification will take place upon entering the event site. Let's prepare for the upcoming hurricane season by clearing hazardous materials from our homes. Items that are not accepted: Aerosol products, Ammonia, Ammunition, Antifreeze, Auto fluids, Auto batteries, Boat batteries, Boat fluids, Charcoal starter, Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), Drain cleaners, Fertilizer, Fire extinguishers, Fireworks, Flares, Fluorescent tubes, Gasoline, Herbicides, Household cleansers, Insecticide, Kerosene, Lawn chemicals, Lighter fluid, Mercury thermometers, Motor oil, Nail polish & remover, Paint, Pesticides, Photo chemicals, Pool chemicals, Propane tanks, Rechargeable batteries, Rust remover, Solvents, Spot remover, Tires, Turpentine, Weed killer, Wood stain, Wood stripper, Business-and government-generated waste, explosives, biohazardous waste, appliances, and microwave ovens. You may also drop off the following electronics: Answering machines, computer cables, cell phones, computers (including laptops), copiers, DVD and VCR players, fax machines, flash and hard drives, keyboards/mice, monitors, pagers, print cartridges, printers, radios, routers, satellite/cable boxes, scanners, speakers/stereos, telephones, televisions, and wires. For inquiries or guidance, contact the public the Public Works team at: 954.967.4526. < Previous News Next News >

How Small Businesses Can Help Employees Prepare For Retirement By Family Features Jul 9, 2025 A Comfortable Retirement Is Something Most People Aspire To, And There Are Many Paths To Plan For That Phase Of Life. While Many Employers Offer Retirement Savings Plans As A Workplace Benefit, Small Business Owners, Whose Time And Resources Are Already At A Premium, Often Face Barriers - Including Hours Of Administrative Work, Additional Costs And Compliance Liabilities - When Setting Up These Plans For Their Employees. Today, many small business owners understand the power of offering a retirement plan, such as a 401(K), to attract and retain top talent and provide additional financial security for their employees. In fact, a retirement plan is the benefit most wanted by workers after health insurance, according to a survey commissioned by 401(K) provider Human Interest. Many states have passed or enacted laws requiring most employers to offer retirement plans for employees. Currently, 20 states have passed legislation for state-mandated retirement programs and 13 states have active programs. Legislation is currently being considered in an additional 28 states. Employers can opt out of state-mandated retirement programs by offering a 401(K) plan, simplifying compliance for business owners. Federal regulations, such as SECURE 2.0, introduced incentives and requirements for business owners who offer 401(K)s, which make it easier for employees to save and access their funds. If you're a small business owner setting up a retirement plan, these considerations can simplify the process while helping employees save for retirement. Add Auto-Enroll to Your 401(K) Plan Many people intend to save for retirement, but don't take the necessary steps to enroll in a plan. Plans that include an automatic enrollment feature help overcome this inertia by automatically collecting deferrals from employees' compensation each pay period unless they opt out of participation. SECURE 2.0 mandates auto-enroll for most 401(K) plans established after December 29th, 2022. If your plan is not subject to the requirement, consider adding it voluntarily. Ultimately, auto-enroll can help contribute to a more financially secure workforce by encouraging consistent savings habits. Take Advantage of Match Contributions Programs While the primary benefit of a 401(K) plan is to help employees save for retirement, offering an employer match encourages employees to participate, as employees may consider the match "free" money. In addition, employers can take a tax deduction for their matching contributions, up to 25% of the total compensation paid to eligible employees for the year. SECURE 2.0 also introduced a tax credit for matching contributions for small employers with new plans. Employers should be aware the tax credit is an alternative to the deduction; the employer can't claim both in the same year. Pick a Platform Designed for Small Businesses The administrative burden of setting up retirement plans can be overwhelming for some business owners. Choosing a tech-enabled 401(K) platform like Human Interest - which offers a fast online setup in a few clicks; transparent pricing; and attentive, human support - can help employers navigate the shifting landscape of state-specific regulations and mandates. When choosing a provider, also consider the upfront fees you'll pay (both as an employer and for the employees participating in the plan), if the platform integrates with your payroll provider, customer service response times and how the 401(K) provider can help answer questions about compliance from regulatory bodies to set your employees up for long-term success. Find additional information to help provide a more secure financial future for your employees at https://humaninterest.com . (Photos courtesy of Shutterstock) Previous Next

Eighteen-Year Breast Cancer Survivor: Shares Her Journey Of Healing - Through Song Thu Jul 20 2023 16:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

European Cruise To Set Sail: Enjoy Great Composers Along The Rhine River August 8, 2024 Share South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is pleased to announce its first “Great Composers Along the Rhine River” Cruise aboard the sophisticated river vessel “The Gentleman” from June 19th – June 26th, 2025 through a partnership with Transcend Cruises. This unique and highly immersive cruise will feature world class service, fine cuisine and destinations that the classical masters called home. This creative alliance with Transcend Cruises will bring together like-minded travelers and will serve to bridge SFSO’s funding gap resulting from the State of Florida’s 2024 - 2025 Arts Budget cut. “South Florida Symphony Orchestra annually budgets $150,000 unrestricted operating funds toward its community outreach and educational programs, however, the arts and culture funding budget cut in Florida has challenged our ways and means,” said Jacqueline Lorber, CEO and President of SFSO. “In order to continue providing diverse and vibrant musical experiences, foster upcoming musicians and contribute to the economic vitality of our region, we needed to get creative with alternative funding sources. We are grateful for our wonderful new partner, Transcend Cruises, who has graciously designed this incredible luxury European Cruise that speaks to both classical music and travel lovers. This venture will help make our budget whole.” This seven-night upscale River Cruise, limited to just 76 staterooms, will serve as a floating hotel, enabling guests to enjoy some of the finest cuisine, art, architecture, and classical performances in the region. The cruise departs from Amsterdam, Netherlands, with planned stops in Bonn, Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Mainz, Wertheim, Wurzburg, Bayreuth, and Nuremberg, Germany. An optional Amsterdam Pre-Cruise and Prague Post-Cruise Extension Program are also available and provide several exquisitely curated experiences for guests in these two iconic cities. “We’re proud to support organizations like South Florida Symphony Orchestra which have a significant impact on the community,” said Hans Rood, CEO of Transcend Cruises. “This collaboration is our way of giving back and showcasing our custom Private Group River Cruise experiences.” Onboard, guests will enjoy an all-inclusive environment with curated menus by esteemed Culinary Institute of America alumni, Television Personality, Entrepreneur, Executive Chef Todd Erickson. Chef Todd has rapidly become a recognized name in culinary excellence and flavor inspiration. Named www.Eater.com ’s “Hottest Chef” in 2012 and a Winner of Food Network Channel’s “Beat Bobby Flay” in 2016, Chef Todd’s skill is designed to dazzle. He will orchestrate his own symphony of flavors through nightly themed dinners coupled with incredible wine pairings. Two featured private performances will focus on the Great Composers: Mozart, Liszt, Schuman, Beethoven, and Wagner, masterful composers noted throughout the region. Pricing starts at $3,999 per person based on double occupancy when booking by Friday, August 30th. Included are roundtrip private transfers, the Seven-Night Cruise accommodation aboard The Gentleman, gourmet meals, complimentary beverages, shore excursions, entertainment, exclusive gifts and more. “Our itinerary has been meticulously curated in collaboration with Transcend Cruises and offers a one-of-a-kind experiential opportunity for fellow classical music lovers,” said Sebrina María Alfonso, Music Director of South Florida Symphony Orchestra. “We are looking forward to making a splash on our ‘Great Composers Along the Rhine River’ Cruise!” For additional information and to book a room aboard SFSO’s “Great Composers Along the Rhine River” Cruise, please call Transcend Cruises at: (954) 737-4709. Or visit: www.transcend-cruises.com/SFSO. The South Florida Symphony Orchestra Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, the now Fort Lauderdale based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is celebrating its 27th Season. SFSO is dedicated to providing enriching cultural music experiences to residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative programming and transformative educational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communities, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of over 125,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO was recently named the first Partner in the Arts for The Parker by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored. For a performance schedule and season tickets, visit: www.southfloridasymphony.org - Call: (954) 522-8445. Or email: info@southfloridasymphony.org . Transcend Cruises Transcend Cruises, a new, global business-to-business (B2B) charter-only European River Cruising Company, delivers fully bespoke and personalized support for savvy clients that desire remarkable group experiences for their guests. The company’s ships are purpose-built for groups and meetings. Offering world class service, trip planning, fine dining experiences, technology, shore excursions and customizations, Transcend Cruises is a niche company that understands how to bring memorable brand experience to life. For more information, visit: www.transcend.cruises < Previous News Next News >

The Delta Variant & The Building Department: Hallandale Beach Officials Are Working On Health & Safety Throughout The City By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper July 29, 2021 Share The City of Hallandale Beach let go their Building Official and two permit clerks resigned as well. With the Chaplain Towers collapse there has been a heightened awareness of all aspects of building and building safety As fear is beginning to grip our Nation over the Delta variant, we all need to remain vigilant. Recently, I received a call from a resident, who was not calling about herself, but about our many seniors that are now questioning what they can and cannot do. Obviously, they all need to be vaccinated. It is safe and it does help to prevent getting the virus. There has been a break through, but those cases are rare. There is also the rare case, that those vaccinated, may still catch the Viral Delta Strain. I have a longtime friend from Philadelphia who is a doctor. He is certified and specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Elder Care. In a conversation, he explained that he has seen a few patients, that have caught the Delta Strain, after being vaccinated. He did tell us, that they are not getting severe cases, like he has seen over the past year and half. He is telling his patients to wear their masks and continue to follow the CDC's Guidelines, by wearing a mask, washing your hands often and practice, social distancing. Here in Florida, our Governor has kept the course of business, as usual. I had to tell the young lady who called me as a mayor, that our hands are tied. We have been preempted from establishing mask mandates and regulations to limit business operations. He has even doubled down in his battle against cruise ships. During COVID-19, we were informed that Condominiums, do have more leeway in establishing rules within their buildings. Legally, condo boards will have to ask their attorneys what they can do particularly, when it comes to masks and other rules. It is particularly alarming that our Broward infection rates have climbed higher. The last update we have received it was 13%. Our hospitals are once again getting overloaded. Sadly, we are seeing young adults and teenagers ending up in the ICU’s. As a grandparent, I was so happy that my Grandson got his doses of the vaccine. He was fine after the first one, but, he was a bit tired, after the second one. I am now, really concerned about my younger grandchildren, who will be starting PreK 4, on August 10th and I am sure that many of the other parents are concerned too. The message is getting the vaccine, as soon as it is available and if you are at high risk, wear a mask. In other business, our City let go of our Building Official and two permit clerks resigned. With the collapse of the Chaplain Towers, there have been, heightened awareness of all aspects of buildings and building safety. I need to note, we have never stopped processing permits, our Staff continues working diligently and to date, we have an acting Building Official and we have hired, two clerks. Recently, you may have seen a Channel 10 report of complaints about our Building Department. I must share that we know that no one likes to have to file, for permits. It is a complex and arduous process. Our department is required by law to protect and serve our residents and ensure that permits, meet the stringent requirements set by the state and the Board of Rules and Appeals, we will never sign off on incomplete permits. Every applicant is different, every permit is different and the process must be thorough, for everyone’s safety. The news report, was a result of a Town Hall Meeting, at the Hemispheres Condominium, where many residents vocalized their frustrations, over work that had still been not completed. At the meeting, one of the contractor/engineers was pointing fingers to the City and to our building department. I received a heads up from a resident that was at the meeting. Once I received this information, I got right to work to find out what had transpired and where the communication had been broken down. It turns out, that this contractor had filed a permit last year. The building department had made comments on the permit that were not addressed by the contractor. In addition, he had not signed his permit documentation properly. At that time, the permit had expired, it was reinstated. While this was during COVID-19, our Staff, was still working, but with limited office hours and it, still sat incomplete. In May, the contractor filed a new permit and at that time, our Staff had made comments, that, once again were not responded to, actually three times. He needed to submit required documents from the County, as well as basic information from what I could see in the permit. When I was asked by the press what was going on, I informed them, that we were working with the contractors, but there were many issues impacting the results. My main goal was to ensure that the permit was taken care of. I have written about permitting, many times and will continue to work with any resident, board and contractor, when it comes to glitches or human error within the system and from applicants not submitting, required informa-tion. Our department cannot sign off on, insufficient permits. They will work with applicants, but, applicants have a responsibility, too. The process goes as such. All permits are required to be signed off by licensed, registered, insured contractors and subcontractors. Even with owner builders, plans must meet, the same requirements. Obviously, the permits must meet all building codes. Many permits are required to be signed off by Broward County, for asbestos certifications. The permit is uploaded by the applicant and they receive a note, once it was received. The permit is now in our hands and goes through the review cycle. Comments are made by each inspector that are involved. This can include structural, electrical, plumbing, zoning and building. If any items are deficient, they are noted. It is up to the applicants to follow the permit, make corrections and resubmit it. We will upload documents, if an applicant is having issues for a fee. We know that some individuals do not have the technology to submit permits, we are here to help and we also, realize there is always the possibility of human error, on all sides. The cycle for comments under normal circumstances, should be less than 7 Business Days. Due to COVID-19 and the Staffing issues, the process has been taking longer and currently, it has been three up to 3 weeks. We cannot make corrections, it is solely up to the applicants. It also needs to be noted, that our City Hall is open Monday to Thursday 8-6. The Building Department takes walk-ins between 8-4. You can also make an appointment. 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 >

Cricket Championships Come to Broward County Thu Aug 10 2023 16:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hollywood Residents Invited To Help Shape The City's Future Tree Canopy City of Hollywood Jun 4, 2026 Hollywood Residents Will Have The Opportunity To Learn About The Benefits Of Urban Trees, Connect With Neighbors, And Help Guide Future Tree Planting Efforts During A Series Of Free Community Workshops Taking Place Throughout June. Hosted by Eco Ed Impact Corp in partnership with the City of Hollywood’s Sustainability team, the workshops are part of an ongoing effort to expand the City's tree canopy and promote healthier, more sustainable neighborhoods. The family-friendly events will offer hands-on learning experiences focused on tree care, urban forestry, and the many ways trees improve quality of life. Participants will discover how trees help cool neighborhoods, improve air quality, reduce Stormwater runoff and create more inviting public spaces. Residents attending the workshops will also have the opportunity to help shape future planting efforts by providing input on where new trees should be planted throughout the community. Participants may also vote for trees in front of their own homes. Each workshop will feature educational activities, children's activities, music, complimentary refreshments, and free plants available while supplies last. Workshop Schedule Saturday, June 6th, 2026 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Kay Gaither Community Center 6291 Funston Street, Hollywood, Florida 33023 Friday, June 12th, 2026 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Boulevard Heights Community Center 6770 Garfield Street, Hollywood, Florida 33024 Saturday, June 13th, 2026 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Driftwood Community Center 3000 North 69th Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33024 Saturday, June 27th, 2026 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Washington Park Community Center 5199 Pembroke Road, Hollywood, Florida 33023 All workshops are free and open to the public. Residents can learn more about the project and vote for trees to help shape the future tree canopy in their neighborhoods by visiting: www.treecanopyproject.com . Bridal Veil Gumbo Limbo Yellow Poinciana Previous Next

Sweeten Up Mom's Day: With an 'Eggstra' Creative Mother's Day Brunch Thu Apr 21 2022 04:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

We All Want To Close The Chapter By Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper December 13, 2023 Share Above: Is A Kindness Room, the goal is to have the room filled with toys, small giveaways, treats and hopefully larger items like game stations, a foosball table, ping pong and other age-appropriate games. The school and teachers locally need everyone’s help. To offer any assistance to the school and teachers, call: (754) 323-5958. Or email: Tiana.smith@browardschools.com . As we are celebrating Hanukkah and getting ready for Christmas, Kwanzaa and then New Year it cannot be said enough that we need more kindness in the world. The COVID-19 Pandemic began three years ago in December 2019. We all want to close the chapter on the COVID-19 Pandemic but with continued strains it is still a threat. For many of us that lost loved ones, The COVID-19 Pandemic has created lasting PTSD far above the grieving process. For our children, the COVID-19 Pandemic also has been life altering. For centuries there have been plagues and diseases that have killed many. In 1918 the Spanish Flu resulted in 20-100 million deaths globally. The ability to accurately capture the death tolls have improved but globally the numbers are not always documented. The percentage of reporting from 131 countries ranges between 98% to 10%. COVID-19 Pandemic according to the World Health Organization, took the lives of over 3.4 million. I am sharing this not to diminish the impacts of COVID-19, rather to highlight that these events have created changes in society and generations. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, I witnessed my grandson, 12 and niece, 15 dealing with isolation and trying to adapt to online schooling. I would often speak with my Mom during this period about her early childhood watching her aunt die of Influenza at their home. Just like that generation who not only survived a Pandemic and World Wars, our younger generation will forever be impacted. I would tell my daughter; this will be a defining moment where some children will be stronger by learning to adapt and others that will not. As we are all trying to get back to the new normal our teachers are working hard to get our children back to their new normal. Many students are having setbacks with their academics. These setbacks are compounded by social developmental and mental health issues. In our Gulfstream Academy of Hallandale Beach our teachers are hard at work addressing student needs. This school is a K-8 and serves over 1,000 students. Some are thriving and others are struggling. In order to motivate the students to achieve academic success and learn social skills they have created Kindness Rooms at both campuses. Students that are seen performing acts of kindness are given tokens that they can use to visit the kindness room. The Colts Campus Kindness Room opened last week and the Stallion Camps Room is in the works. Their goal is to have the room filled with toys, small giveaways, treats and hopefully larger items like game stations, a foosball table, ping pong and other age-appropriate games. Some items have been donated but they are still in need of donations. The teacher in charge of the room has set up an Amazon wish list where caring partners are able to donate. Currently, the Stallion Room is simply seeking donations suitable for 6th - 8th graders. You can go to Amazon Registry Gulfstream Academy of Halladale K-8 Donations. So, while teaching kindness and focusing on social skills the room is also being utilized for tutoring and testing. Students that perform well will be rewarded at the Kindness Store. Starting this year there has been the implementation of Florida Assessment of Student Thinking FAST which includes benchmark assessments called Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking BEST. This test impacts students from VPK to 10th grade. They are for: Reading, Writing and Math. Testing is critical and every parent should support them to be able to see where their child needs help. There have always been issues around testing due to the State tying it to funding. Lower performing schools would be penalized with reductions in funding. That policy has changed and now schools that have improved their school grades from C to B for example and A schools get rewarded. Ironically a kinder approach. Not that it creates equity, that is another issue. Our school and teachers locally need everyone’s help. Our teachers are all working hard and often go into their own pockets. This Holiday Season, think about supporting their efforts to promote kindness. With all the Antisemitism and continued wars we all need to do our part. Our children need to be taught kindness in their homes and schools. To offer any assistance to the school and teachers, call: (754) 323-5958. Or email: Tiana.smith@browardschools.com . As always please feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our city a better place. I am available at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or: joycooper@aol.com . On my Office Number at: (954) 457-1318. Or on my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. You can always visit my Facebook and follow me at Mayor Joy Cooper. < Previous News Next News >