PMG Custom Building: Your Premier Construction Partner in South Florida Wed Dec 13 2023 17:13:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hit the Road & Lost Illusions: The International Film Series Continues Fri Aug 12 2022 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Scrumptious Ways To Simplify Springtime Meals: Make Weekday Dining A Breeze With Easy And Delicious Recipes By Family Features May 9, 2024 Share From everyday weeknight dinners to picnics in the park, warmer weather and longer days mean families want to spend more time together and less time in the kitchen. This spring, look for kitchen hacks that can make fresh and healthy weeknight seasonal recipes a cinch. Skipping complicated prep work is the first step toward simplifying springtime meals. Rather than recipes that call for a lot of prep or cooking time, consider easy dishes that require only a handful of steps and use everyday ingredients you may already have in your pantry, fridge or freezer. For example, these Shrimp, Broccoli and Potato Skewers with Lemon and Thyme can let you put a little spring in your weeknight dinners. Grilled skewers keep the whole family happy and come together in less than 30 minutes, making them perfect for quick and healthy meals without the hassle. The versatility of potatoes means you can grill them, and this version calls for a 5-minute microwave steam first to cut down on grill time. With easy-to-prepare potatoes, The Little Potato Company makes family dinners like this one a breeze as they come pre-washed, require no peeling and are small enough they don't need to be cut. This allows for less time in the kitchen and more time for outdoor play to enjoy a little moment of happiness. Plus, the Microwave and Roast or Grill Ready kits come with their own seasoning packs for added convenience. Grown on family farms, Little Potatoes are a fresh whole food packed with nutrients you can feel good about serving your family and are ideal for this Easy as 1-2-3 Potato Salad. With just three ingredients and minimal prep time, this delightful dish becomes an ultimate springtime solution for busy families. Plus, it's easy enough that little ones can join in on the fun of preparing it. Simply pop the tray of Microwave Ready Little Potatoes in the microwave for 5 minutes then add the included Savory Herb Seasoning Pack, Chopped Green Onions and the Mayonnaise for a delicious side - no Potato boiling or peeling required. Shrimp, Broccoli And Potato Skewers With Lemon And Thyme Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 4 • 1 Pound Bagged Little Potatoes • 1 Bunch of broccoli • 12 Large Shrimp, Peeled and Deveined • 1-1/2 Lemons, Juice only • 3 Tablespoons of Fresh Thyme, chopped • 2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil • Salt, to taste • Pepper, to taste In a large, microwave-safe bowl, microwave the Potatoes on high for 5 minutes. Chop the Broccoli into large pieces. Add the Broccoli and the Shrimp to the bowl once the Potatoes are steamed. Add the Lemon Juice, the Thyme and the Olive Oil; evenly coat the Potatoes, the Shrimp and the Broccoli. Season it with the Salt and the Pepper, to taste. Build the skewers and grill for 10-15 minutes on medium-high heat, until the Shrimp are cooked through. Easy as 1-2-3 Potato Salad Prep time: 2 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 4 • 1 Package A Little Savory Herb Microwave Ready Little Potatoes, with included Seasoning Pack • 2-3 Tablespoons of chopped Green Onions • 1/2 Cup of Mayonnaise or Plain Greek Yogurt In the microwave, cook the Potatoes for 5 minutes according to the package’s directions. Combine the Seasoning Pack, the Chopped Green Onions and the Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt. Pour the Dressing over the Cooled Potatoes. Stir it gently and serve it. To find more ways to savor springtime meals outdoors with your family, visit: https://littlepotatoes.com . < Previous News Next News >

Water Damage? Call The Experts 1st Priority Restoration Will Fix The Problem February 3, 2022 Share If your home has been damaged by water from a leaking pipe, intruding water from all the current rains or mold damage from moisture over time. How are you going to address these problems in your home? A Restoration Company such as 1st Priority Restoration is usually the first company to call following significant damage to a home from floods, water damage, sewage backup and other major water events. The job of a restoration company is to clean up the mess and to preserve the home, protect the home and its contents so that further damage will not occur. Flood damage can be found in any geographical area, regardless of elevation. The causes of flooding can range from natural disasters, burst pipes, leaking pipes, rain storms or sewer lines that are backing up. Even in a condo, you could have a water leak in your wall, under a toilet or behind a kitchen cabinet creating mold that can cause damage to your property and your health. 1st Priority Restoration can find the source of the leak, fix it, restore your property and work directly with your insurance. Regardless of the cause, restoration professionals are called upon to repair water damage, mold damage and restore flooded properties. The water damage restoration process is highly regulated in order to ensure that properties damaged by flood or sewer events, can be effectively restored to a safe space for a homeowner to remain safe during the cleanup. You need a company such as 1st Priority Restoration who you can trust to do the job correctly. The process is simple, when 1st Priority Restoration arrives, they will thoroughly walk through your home and discuss the areas that need to be cleaned & restored to their original condition. Your insurance company adjuster or claim representative may recommend what and how your home should be cleaned, but in the end, it is your decision to make. In the past year, we have all heard the word “Mitigation” more times than we can count, but with water damage, that is exactly what needs to be done. Water damage restoration does not stop at restoring your real estate back to proper functioning. The professionals at 1st Priority will inspect the underlying causes that have caused the water damage in the first place and make sure there won’t be a reoccurrence. They will repair all of the damaged structures and replace the materials to make your property safe, for years to come. If your property has been exposed to water damage, you may have to do water mitigation. Strict actions are required in water mitigation, such as: removal of damaged materials such as drywall and flooring. Molds and mildew that have accumulated in areas in your property will be disinfected and deodorized to restore a healthy environment. Further cleaning and deodorizing should be done to make sure that your real estate is back in tip-top shape. Water damage mitigation should happen immediately after flooding or water buildup. Take action immediately, because letting your property sit in water can cause further damages and expenses. Materials soaking in water collect microbes and spread water-borne diseases. Furniture, wood flooring and walls will crack, sag and collect fungi after prolonged exposure to moisture. If your property is particularly old, it may be time to replace materials such as pipes to prevent a reoccurrence of water damage. If pipes are behind walls, it may require more extensive repairs. The water mitigation process will depend on how long your property has been exposed to water. Air humidifiers and drying equipment must be turned on around the clock in areas with severe water damage. Mold spores are especially dangerous to health and thorough cleaning and disinfecting should be done as part of the water damage mitigation. It is advisable to get the temperature, humidity and moisture of your property tested to see if it has been restored to normal standards, 1st Priority professionals can handle the entire process. After 1st Priority Restor-ation evaluates the work and equipment needed to clean your home, they will provide you QUICKLY with an estimate or contract/services. LEAK DETECTION: One tiny water leak can create huge problems. An undetected water pipe leak will not only dramatically increase your utility bills, but it can also lead to even more expensive water damage and mold. If you’ve had higher than average water bills, constantly have to refill your pool or hear running water, it’s time to call the leak detection specialists at 1st Priority Restoration! Is water pipe leak detection possible if the pipes are behind a wall? Yes, using the newest state-of-the-art detection tools, highly trained technicians are able to locate water pipe leaks that are hidden behind walls. They can even provide water plumbing leak detection within concrete slab foundations. Will insurance cover the cost of plumbing leak detection services? That all depends on your home's insurance plan. In many situations, when there is a need for water damage restoration, many insurance companies will cover the related costs. 1st Prior-ity Restoration representatives can work directly with your homeowners insurance to verify the need for the plumbing leak detection service, cause of the problem and the repairs that will be required to fix the situation. NEVER FOOL AROUND WITH MOLD & MILDEW: When it comes to mold and mildew, we cannot take those potential hazards lightly. A mold problem can cause you to experience dizziness, anxiety, depression and even hallucinations. If you have been experiencing a diminished attention span or problems with your memory, it might be a good idea to have your home inspected for black mold by a mold remediation crew. For people sensitive to mold, inhaling or touching mold spores can cause allergic reactions, including sneezing, runny nose, red eyes and skin rashes. People with serious mold allergies may have more severe reactions, including shortness of breath. At 1st Priority Restoration, this is what they do 365 days a year, nobody knows how to prevent potential dangers like they do. By dialing: 1 (800) 617-1112 – you can save financially and your health as well! MOLD AND YOUR HOME: Mold is found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the outside air can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, bags and pets, which can be carried indoors. Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, pipes or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric and upholstery. With all of the rain and storms we have been having these past months, you can see a pattern of mold growth that will last. From leaks, flooding / driving rain, mold growth is a certainty in South Florida. If you are concerned that you might have a mold or mildew problem, it is best to call the professionals. Your health is your most impor-tant asset, so just like you go see a doctor for tests, your home needs tests too. VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION: There are some important ways that we can prevent the spread of mold and what you can do to get rid of it. Keep an eye out for hidden leaks: Wet spots on your ceiling, the baseboards or on the floor are a telltale sign of a leaky pipe or roof. Your home's pipes are behind drywall, which can leave a small leak unnoticed. Mold can grow behind those walls and filter into the air through ducts or pipes. At 1st Priority, they can come in and assess the situation before it gets worse. Did you know that many air conditioner systems/ducts are susceptible to mold growth? They often trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for spores. Bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms create a lot of excess heat and humidity, especially here in south Florida – whether it is from a shower, stove or even a dryer, all of these areas should be well ventilated. Education is key to anything – when our health is at stake – knowing that mold spores can lay dormant for years after they are produced and could begin growing again at any time, it is extremely important to know. Because of this, regular cleanings and having 1st Priority Restoration to depend on, will certainly make our lives much easier. Ever wonder why you or your children wake up coughing and sneezing on a regular basis? The CDC may have the answer. According to the CDC, in 2004 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found that there was sufficient evidence to link indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, coughing, sneezing and wheezing in otherwise healthy people and in individuals susceptible with compromised immune conditions. Mold or mold spores may cause asthma attacks in people who have asthma and are allergic to mold. Even in some nonallergic individuals, mold can cause symptoms of irritation in the eyes, skin and airways. For example, the "black mold" Stachybotrys, along with some other types of mold, produce toxins known as mycotoxins that can cause irritation of the skin and airways in susceptible individuals. Sometimes, people may develop severe reactions to mold exposure, but cleaning and sanitizing by professionals you can trust, can help. EXPERIENCE IS EVERYTHING: With decades in the business, 1st Priority Restoration is a reputable company with over 20 employees that are licensed and insured. They have been doing all types of cleaning, sanitizing, leak/mold detection and water damage restoration for more than a decade. "We use the most efficient cleaning and water removal equipment to make sure that our customers are satisfied with the job we do for them. We try to use nontoxic (Green) safe chemicals for all mildew treatments. In all of the years that we have been helping our customers with water damage, they have always been pleased with the work that we do and we have never received a single complaint!” YEAR ROUND SERVICE: If you have lived in south Florida for any period of time, you already know that the weather is ever changing, for that reason, the rainy season can happen at any time. It doesn’t have to be a tropical system to cause flooding and everything that goes along with it, a leak or burst pipe can happen at any time of year, 1st Priority Restoration is available to help get your home back to a healthy environment for you and your family. What continues to separate them from anyone else is that they can take care of all of your water damage problems - as well as conducting leak and mold detections, working with your insurance company and your adjuster. By calling 1st Priority Restor-ation, you are getting a business that understands it all and is ready to spring into immediate action 12 months a year. From ceiling repair, drywall replacement, structural damage, roof leaks, floor repair, furniture cleaning, mold removal and treatments, they have it all covered. CUSTOMERS ARE ALWAYS SATISFIED: "If a customer calls and is not completely satisfied with any of the work, the crew will return promptly to your property. We strive to make our customers 100% satisfied. Proud member of the Better Business Bureau. $25 OFF MOLD TESTING! 1st Priority Restoration 1-800-617-1112 1-800-996-7919 Closed Saturday & Jewish Holidays. < Previous News Next News >

John Giraldo Is Helping FPL Build A Stronger Miami South Florida Sun Times Mar 19, 2026 Long Before He Began Helping Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) Strengthen Communities Across South Florida, John Giraldo Was Focused On Building Stability Through Perseverance. With Little More Than A Minivan For Shelter, Giraldo Carved Out The Life He Wanted, Working Multiple Jobs, Saving Every Dollar And Holding Fast To The Belief That Success Means Giving Back. “I was under 21 and couldn’t even sign a rental contract,” he recalls. “So, I took out the back seat of my van and lived in it.” Every day was about survival, but also about hope. That mindset would define Giraldo’s career at Florida Power & Light Company and his commitment to helping others overcome obstacles of their own. At 33, he went back to school to pursue his passion for engineering, determined to build a more stable future and a way to give back. “I was always eager to learn, always goal-oriented,” he says. “I knew education was the key to changing my life.” While earning his degree, Giraldo joined FPL as an intern. After graduating and joining the company full time, he quickly found his calling in the Storm Secure Underground Program (SSUP), where his personal values aligned closely with the program’s mission. SSUP, which began as a pilot and now includes over 3,200 completed projects, is transforming how Florida prepares for hurricanes by converting overhead neighborhood power lines to underground lines. “Underground lines mean fewer outages, faster restoration and safer communities,” he explains. “These are benefits that resonate deeply with someone who knows the importance of stability firsthand.” Neighborhoods are selected for the program based on criteria approved by the Florida Public Service Commission and designed to prioritize areas that can most benefit from undergrounding. By moving power lines underground, FPL is reducing outages from wind, debris and falling trees, and delivering outstanding reliability not just during storms but year-round. “From the start, I was involved in the SSUP pilot, including designing the program, reaching out to customers and figuring out how to deliver real value,” he says. “It wasn’t just a job. It was about making my own community stronger.” For more than 25 years, Miami has been Giraldo’s home and a place he feels deeply responsible for serving. “I’m not just serving customers—I’m serving my neighbors, my friends, the people I see every day,” he says. As lead project manager for SSUP, Giraldo oversees more than 100 projects at a time, coordinating teams, managing resources and navigating the challenges of moving overhead power lines underground in one of the nation’s most storm-prone regions. “We’re building a grid that’s proactive, not reactive,” Giraldo explains. “Instead of rebuilding after every storm, we’re creating infrastructure that will last for generations.” The work is complex and requires balancing technical demands, customer needs and the realities of South Florida’s dense urban landscape. But the payoff is clear. During the 2024 Hurricane Season, FPL’s underground lines performed up to 15 times better than their overhead counterparts, helping keep the lights on for thousands of families and businesses when it mattered most. Day-to-day, these underground lines perform 50% better than overhead lines, delivering consistent reliability. For Giraldo, the most rewarding moments often come after a storm, a lesson he learned early in life. “I’ve seen the relief when homes come back online, small business owners reopen and neighbors come together to support our crews,” he shares. “Those moments remind me why this work matters.” “There’s something meaningful about restoring power after a storm, especially when you know what’s at stake for families, businesses and hospitals. It’s about taking care of your community when it matters most,” says Giraldo. That commitment to service extends beyond Giraldo’s role at FPL. Deeply rooted in the community he serves and inspired by an early commitment to give back, he is also actively involved in philanthropic initiatives that support health, education and youth development across South Florida. For the past five years, Giraldo has supported the FCC Corporate Soccer Tournament, a program focused on empowering youth through physical activity, emotional wellness and violence prevention. He also volunteers as a math tutor for high school and college students, helping them build confidence, overcome academic barriers and reach their goals. Through his leadership at FPL and his work in the community, Giraldo says he is trying to build a more resilient South Florida. And when he looks at Miami’s skyline today, it’s also a reminder of how far both he and the city have come. Previous Next

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 >

Cinema Paradiso: New Programming Brings More Hollywood July 15, 2021 Share "A lot of films were held back because of the Pandemic, so, we're mostly going to show the films everyone has been waiting to see for the past year," said Bonnie Adams, Senior Program Director for the Cinemas Hollywood, the elegant and intimate arthouse movie theatre located at 2008 Hollywood Boulevard, in the heart of the Arts & Entertainment District of Downtown Hollywood, has announced a major expansion in its programming. In addition to the international and American independent films and documentaries, which it has been showing since its opening in 2013, the theatre has recently begun screening first-run films from major American studios such as Disney, Paramount, Warner Brothers, Universal and others. "We want to expand the offerings of the theatre to appeal to a wider customer base, and bring more people to Cinema Paradiso - Hollywood," explained Gregory von Hausch, President and CEO of the The Broward County Film Society (BCFS), the parent company of the theatre, as well as the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF). The BCFS also just reopened the iconic Gateway Cinema in Fort Lauderdale, von Hausch noted that the addition, contributed to the Society's ability to expand its local programming. "We now have an even greater opportunity to showcase and celebrate the best in films in our theatres, making them more accessible to a wider audience," he continued. "A lot of films were held back because of the Pandemic, so we're mostly going to show the films everyone has been waiting to see for the past year," said Bonnie Adams, Senior Program Director for the Cinemas. "There is so much excitement, a lot of anticipation; many dates have been changed multiple times, so everyone is very pumped about it. Plus, some of these are films that you just have to see at the theatre," she believes. "The sound, the picture quality... and the thing I miss most, other people's reactions. The whole group experience is so much more fun than watching by yourself." Cinema Paradiso - Hollywood is open every day and the venue is also available for special events. For more information, please contact: (954) 342-9137. Or visit: www.fliff.com/cinemaparadiso Downtown Hollywood offers on-street metered parking for $1.50 per hour, as well as municipal garage parking for $1 per hour. Municipal garage locations are 251 South 20th Avenue (between Harrison Street and Van Buren Street) and 251 North 19th Avenue (between Tyler Street and Polk Street). For more information about redevelopment projects, businesses and events in Hollywood's Downtown and Beach Districts, call the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency at: (CRA) at 954-924-2980. Or visit: www.HollywoodCRA.org . < Previous News Next News >

Rewriting Our Code: Looking To The Future Of Hallandale Beach By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper August 29, 2024 Share Cities, just like corporations, run under specific rules and regulations. We have our City charter as our Governing Document and a Code of Ordinances that regulate everything from right of ways, services, businesses, construction, building maintenance and development. The charter can only be amended by a direct vote of the people. Our Code can be changed by the commission through a majority vote. Some development regulations can only be changed by the commission and then must be authorized by the county and in some cases the state. As a Commission, we have adopted changes to various codes over the years. These changes come in the form of Ordinances that are brought to a vote twice at our Commission Meetings for direct public input. These changes have been adopted to Enhance Operations, clarify Rules and Modernize Various Codes to Modern Realities. Ordinances are the Laws of the City. It has been many years since we have performed a Full Code Rewrite. We directed the City Manager to begin the process last year. We went out to bid and approved a contract with Calvon Giordano to perform the Rewrite. This is not simply reading the Code and Reorganizing and Redrafting, it is a Full Rewrite. The process entails the analysis of every Code side by side with our Residents and Businesses. It will become a blueprint for our future. The rewriting will take at least a year. Last Thursday, we hosted the first public workshop at the Cultural Center. There were two sessions open to the public. At 4:00 p.m. Business Owners and Developers attended and at 6:00 p.m. the public came. C&G set up stations around the room and asked participants to either place green dots for yes or red for no on items. Displays included different signs, types of houses, types of building, street layouts and parking. There were other stations that showed land uses around the City. These are a pattern of where to put use including Commercial, Residential, Multi Family, Low Density to High Density and various building heights. Florida Law is very strict when it comes to property rights. If I own a property that I can build commercially it is “by right” to build. The codes regulate the how. Some areas you can build “by right” single family and other multifamily “by right.” We cannot take those rights as we can be sued under The Burt Harris Act. We can again regulate how they are built. There are various viewpoints and ideas of what changes we need to address future growth. Some of us believe that we can stop all Development and Redevelopment. That is not realistic. Property owners have rights and buildings often become obsolete. Some of us want more Development to address Housing but not in our backyard. Land Development and Zoning Laws have been around for decades. Some may be surprised that the patterns are now changing back to what I call “Back to The Future.” As dense urban communities, we are mixing uses along our corridors. The New Urbanism, which I call the Old Urbanism that provides that Commercial and Residential, can and should be mixed. I remember going to my grandmothers in Trenton, New Jersey. There were Single Family Homes and Multi-Family Units right next door to the market. You could walk another two blocks and go to the movies. There were restaurants on the main street in store fronts and others in converted houses. The beauty was you did not even need a car. My grandmother did not drive. She walked pretty much everywhere except where you could catch the shuttle to work. How do you feel about our future? What do you envision for tomorrow? We want to know! If you missed the meeting, there is an online survey at: www.visionHallandaleBeach.org . We will also be scheduling another Follow-Up Meeting. Please feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City a better place! I’m reachable at the Office: (954) 457-1318. On my Mobile/Text: (954) 632-5700. Or visit my website at: www.MayorJoyCooper.com . Working for you! Always have! Always will! < Previous News Next News >

Why Choosing Clean, Traceable Beauty Products Is Essential Fri Jun 11 2021 13:45:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

How We Can Fight Global Warming As A City October 28, 2021 Share We will continue to work with our residents and other stakeholders to address carbon reduction Over the past years scientists and leaders around the globe have been sounding the alarm about global warming and climate change. When I first had the opportunity to participate in the US Conference of Mayors over 15 years ago, I joined the Environment Committee. At the first meeting we heard presentations from NASA engineers on the satellite images of our plant and the degradation of the ice caps and Greenland. It was both educational and meant to sound the warning that many nations around the globe had already heeded. At that time living in South Florida, we already knew it was happening. Sadly, many deniers simply did not believe the science. Mayors like me started to take a stand. We united and adopted the Climate Pledge supporting the Paris Accord. The US did not join the treaty, however, I joined and was one of the original signers. The kickoff event took place in Seattle where we joined via video conference with Vice President Al Gore for his release of the movie Inconvenient Truth 2006. I have often wondered how different the United States would be if he had won the election. Since then, the Mayors have been incrementally doing what we can to address global warming. Our City's first project was through Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grants EECBG. We retrofitted the City Hall lighting system. This grant paid for itself through cost savings and it was a wonderful program that was never reauthorized by the new administration and we are currently working to get it reauthorized. As a City we hired Sustainability Coordinator Susan Fassler to evaluate what measures and policies we could implement and continue with the goal of reducing our carbon emissions. When we first started there were no tools for smaller cities to even provide carbon assessments. Fast forward and now these tools are available and we created a sustainability plan, which was adopted in 2018 and has been redrafted since then. Many residents even participated in its creation. I encourage residents to visit our website at: www.cohb.org and then click on our Green Initiatives tab to see the document. I had the opportunity to speak about our plan at a recent Broward County Summit. Our City was highlighted since we were the first city to adopt 30 by 50. The plan includes internal policies for operations and purchasing, the first GreenHouse Gas Emission Inventory has established a LEED Gold policy for all future City buildings, policies to replace all vehicles with electric or hybrid, guidelines for green developments, post disaster building guidelines, addressing sea-level rise with a new sea wall and building elevation regulations. The mayors still continue to lobby and work to address climate change. There is now a group of over 470 mayors that have joined the Climate Mayors. We hold monthly meetings and share ideas on how to move forward. Each step we take helps to address the climate crisis. Our Commission continues to implement our plan. This past week we approved a purchase for our Police Department’s replacement of their vehicles. These purchases had been put off for years. Some vehicles should have been replaced 6 years ago. While our goal is for all electric purchases, this is a combination of electric and hybrid. The police cruiser will be hybrids and other utility vehicles will be all electric. To implement an electric fleet, you obviously need charging stations, which we have been installing, but there is still a big obstacle to provide enough electricity. Currently the transformers within FPL’s infrastructure need to be upgraded to meet these demands, which we will continue to work on with them and to push for investments in our electric grid. We will continue to work with our residents and other stakeholders to address carbon reduction. Transportation in our City produces 49% of our carbon footprint. I encourage every resident to do their part. Shut off lights when not in use, sign up for FPL’s free electric audit, conserve water, try to combine your trips and every measure adds to our goal. 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 >

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An Evening Of Enchantment: "Ser.Rana" Brings The Magic Of Flamenco To Aventura July 19, 2024 Share The rhythmic claps, passionate footwork, and evocative melodies of Flamenco will soon resonate through the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. The city of Aventura, in partnership with FUNDarte, proudly presents "Ser.Rana" as part of the highly anticipated Florida Flamencos Series. This spectacular dance performance, created by the renowned Sonia Franco Gutiérrez, promises to captivate audiences with its powerful storytelling and mesmerizing artistry. "Ser.Rana" is no ordinary Flamenco show. It is a transformative experience that transcends traditional dance boundaries, immersing the audience in a journey of movement and emotion. Sonia Franco Gutiérrez, a celebrated dancer, choreographer, and actress, has crafted an omen of a performance that draws viewers into an ethereal world where the desire to dance is as relentless as a flowing river. Gutiérrez describes "Ser.Rana" as an exploration of the innate human urge to move, a force as unstoppable as water. The performance embodies this theme through its fluid choreography and compelling narrative. The dancers, like frogs venturing beyond their familiar pond, navigate through impossible scenarios, their bodies becoming vessels of transformation. This powerful metaphor of movement and change is at the heart of "Ser.Rana," making it a unique and deeply resonant piece of art. The minimalist aesthetic of "Ser.Rana" strips away the unnecessary, leaving only the pure essence of music and dance. This stark simplicity allows the raw emotion and physicality of Flamenco to shine through, connecting directly with the audience. The original music, specially composed for this performance, complements the dance perfectly, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and beautiful. FUNDarte’s Florida Flamenco Series is dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage of Flamenco while also pushing the genre’s boundaries. This year’s lineup features a diverse array of performances, from traditional Flamenco to contemporary interpretations. "Ser.Rana" exemplifies this mission by blending the classic elements of Flamenco with innovative choreography and modern sensibilities. Sonia Franco Gutiérrez is no stranger to the international stage. Her work has been showcased around the world, earning her a reputation as one of the most daring and visionary artists in the Flamenco community. In "Ser.Rana," she brings her extensive experience and creative genius to Aventura, offering local audiences a rare opportunity to witness a performance that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally moving. The Florida Flamenco Series has become a staple of the cultural calendar in Aventura, drawing Flamenco enthusiasts and newcomers alike. This annual event, presented by FUNDarte, highlights the vibrancy and versatility of Flamenco, showcasing Spain’s most notable artists who are not afraid to take risks and explore new artistic territories. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is the perfect venue for "Ser.Rana." Its intimate setting allows for a close-up view of the dancers’ intricate footwork and expressive movements. Every seat in the house offers a clear and immersive view of the stage, ensuring that no detail of this exquisite performance is missed. Tickets for "Ser.Rana" are now on sale, with prices starting at $42.00. Given the popularity of the Florida Flamenco Series and the limited number of performances, it is recommended to purchase tickets early. The showings are scheduled for Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, at 8:00 p.m., and Sunday, November 3rd, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. These performances are expected to sell out quickly, so Flamenco fans are encouraged to secure their seats soon. "Ser.Rana" is more than just a dance performance; it is an artistic journey that promises to leave a lasting impression on all who experience it. Whether you are a lifelong fan of Flamenco or new to this dynamic art form, this show is not to be missed. Join Sonia Franco Gutiérrez and her talented troupe for an evening of enchantment and inspiration as they bring the magic of "Ser.Rana" to Aventura. Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. You can purchase tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. Parking FREE parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. For more information visit: www.aventuracenter.org < Previous News Next News >