A New Kind of Boat Show: An Entertaining Three-day Experience That’s So Miami September 29, 2022 Share The Pandemic had an unusual effect on the Boat Industry. The open ocean provided the ultimate low-risk getaway for a family. People who could afford it chartered boats. Those with even greater financial means just bought them outright. The number of new boats sold in the U.S. in 2020 hit a 13-year high of nearly 320,000 vessels, up 13% from the year before, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association. As new boaters entered the market, a domino effect took place, with their friends and families getting into the activity as well. The trend has slowed since the high of 2020, but the industry is still going strong. So if you are in the market, a new kind of boat show will come ashore just in time for the Summer of 2023. The South Florida Boat Show will offer the kind of entertainment and energy Miami is known for and it will drop anchor next Boating Season. The South Florida Boat Show Crew has set out to create a unique experience at the South Florida Boat Show that will keep every aspect of the boating lifestyle in mind. Between Friday May 19th, 2023 and Sunday, May 21st, 2023, nautical enthusiasts from all over will descend upon the Historic Miami Marine Stadium to see and board hundreds of boats, shop marine accessories and gadgets, while enjoying Miami’s colorful entertainment, music, food and art. Whether it’s cruising the Intracoastal, hitting the sandbar, running offshore, or deep diving, there is an undeniable connection between boaters and the sea; they love the water and everything that goes with it. The South Florida Boat Show will serve as a one-stop shop to enjoy everything this lifestyle has to offer, while seeing the latest and greatest displays by exhibitors from around the world. In addition to top-of-the-line engines, electronics, fishing gear, diving equipment, water sports and accessories, The South Florida Boat Show will have both on-land and in-water boat displays, including a sea trial dock for those looking to feel that salty wind in their hair. “We developed a show that caters to the real needs of exhibitors and partners, as well as the attendees,” said John Hagins, Director of Partner Relations for The South Florida Boat Show. “Our focus on that ‘Ocean Lifestyle’ and the Miami we all love will be evident throughout the Show.” The South Florida Boat Show will appeal to the boating lifestyle by offering plenty of bars including the 360-degree “Ships Wheel Bar” and “The Galley Food Hall” offering a variety of food options from across South Florida, The Caribbean and America. In addition, there will be lots of cool gathering areas to meet up with friends, sit, relax, trade stories and talk shop. The South Florida Boat Show will schedule entertainment and live music throughout the day to herald in each sunset. “Just about everyone we know are boaters – it’s almost a prerequisite here in South Florida. Positioning the show just before Memorial Day will help us all get ready for the summer,” added Tony Albelo, CEO at EngageLive! Tickets to the South Florida Boat Show start at $25 and are already on sale at: SoFloBoatShow.com. The event will be held at the Miami Marine Stadium located at 3501 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, Florida 33149. For more information, visit: https://engagelivellc.com Or call: (305) 459-9988. < Previous News Next News >

Religious Freedoms October 28, 2021 Share Where Do Your Rights End & The Public's Begin? Calling the firing of a high school football coach who prayed alone on the field after games an "overt hostility to personal religious practice," the Project 21 Black Leadership Network joined with former Vice President Mike Pence and other leading conservatives in asking the U.S. Supreme Court to accept a case that could help protect the freedom of public officials to practice their faith without fear of punishment. "Personal religious expressions and practices are a normal part of most people's lives and are protected by our Constitution," noted Project 21 Member Donna Jackson, a seminary graduate. "The food restrictions of Jews and Muslims are based on religious principles. Does this mean a Muslim public school teacher can be fired for declining pork at a school event? Private expressions of faith aren't what we do; they are who we are. Expecting us to distance ourselves from our beliefs not only deprives us of our rights, but also deprives us of our humanity." In the case of Joseph A. Kennedy VS. Bremerton School District, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against former Coach Joe Kennedy, who was suspended and later fired because he had allegedly been "engag[ing] in demonstrative religious activity" while "on duty." Coach Kennedy had prayed alone on the high school's football field for less than a minute after games. The lower court's ruling was "flat wrong," according to an amici curiae ("friends of the court") legal brief filed in support of a petition to the U.S. Supreme Court and signed by Project 21 and nearly seventy other groups and individuals. The brief stated that it is "absurd to label an act of obvious personal gratitude and humility governmental speech that is prohibited by the Constitution" and that Americans' personal speech cannot violate the Constitution's Establishment Clause "simply because the public can see them." "As a black man who has always been involved in sports - both as a student-athlete and a parent-coach - I can definitively say there isn't a black person in America who wants to take away anyone's right to pray. On the field, we pray for the safety of our players without any objections," said Project 21 Member Derrick Hollie. Hollie is the president of Reaching America, another group that has signed onto the brief. "This is just another way the left is trying to divide us as a nation and take God away from us." The brief further asserted that the 9th Circuit Court's ruling, as it stands, threatens the First Amendment rights of public employees while they are at work and when they are visible to the public. It cited examples from hypothetical to historical to make that case - including a teacher wanting to pray before eating lunch, President Joe Biden closing remarks on August 26, 2021 by saying: "May God bless you all and may God protect the troops and all those standing watch for America." The brief also asserted that the 9th Circuit misapplied the Establishment Clause meant to stop state-established religion, arguing that it was "indisputably clear" that the coach's prayers were personal, the school's opposition to them confirmed he was not acting as a public official. The ruling's assertion that publicity made this an Establishment Clause issue was erroneous, claimed the brief, because "[t]he publicity was caused by the inappropriate ban, not by Coach Kennedy." "Our religious freedom and freedom of speech are enshrined in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and we have had praying presidents since George Washington. So why is this coach or any other public figure, now a threat?" asked Project 21 Member and Community Activist Barbara From Harlem. "It makes me wonder if this would be an issue if he were chanting to an unknown god or a slogan such as 'Black Lives Matter.' This appears to be nothing more than a continuation of the left's war against the Judeo-Christian principles and ethics upon which our country was founded." The brief concluded that, if allowed to stand, the existing ruling in the case "will impermissibly and unconstitutionally curtail or chill the private religious speech of public officials." "It is maddening for a court to conclude that, because a coach prays publicly, his coaching decisions are based on wanting others to follow suit and also participate in prayer. This argument unjustly impugns the integrity of Coach Kennedy and Christians everywhere," said Project 21 Member Melanie Collette, who has over 20 years of professional experience in public education. "Behind these arguments is an insidious attempt by the left to shut down the free speech of Christians and furthering the anti-God agenda that is so prevalent in today's public schools. It is my fervent prayer that the U.S. Supreme Court addresses this injustice by picking up this case and ruling in favor of Coach Kennedy." In addition to Project 21 and the groups that spearheaded the legal brief former Vice President Pence's Advancing American Freedom and the Young America's Foundation the brief was signed by lawmakers including U.S. Representatives Jody Hice, Bob Good, Jeff Duncan and Warren Davidson; former House Speaker Newt Gingrich; Dr. James C. Dobson and groups such as Alliance Defending Freedom, Eagle Forum and Life Issues Institute. < Previous News Next News >

"Hi Grandma I Need Help" Scam: Florida Attorney General Arrests Six Fraudsters For Stealing Nearly $250,000 From Seniors July 4, 2024 Share Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution announced recently the arrest of six fraudsters for stealing nearly $250,000 from Florida seniors through grandparent scams. The Miami-Dade Police Department’s Vice Intelligence Squad reports that the defendants contacted seniors posing as lawyers or legal representatives of one of the victim’s grandchildren. The fraudsters told the targets that the grandchildren were arrested after hitting a pregnant woman with a vehicle and needed bail money, then arranged for the victim to send payment. Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “These fraudsters know that most grandparents would do anything to help a grandchild in need, and through a convincing imposter scheme they used fear and family to extort Florida seniors—stealing nearly a quarter of a million dollars. Working with our great law enforcement partners in South Florida, we were able to shut down this far-reaching grandparent scheme and now six fraudsters will have to answer for their crimes.” Miami-Dade Police Department Director Stephanie V. Daniels said, “I am immensely proud of the Miami-Dade Police Department’s Vice Intelligence Squad, for their exceptional collaboration with the Florida Attorney General, and federal agencies in successfully apprehending individuals involved in extorting the elderly population. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to protecting our community's most vulnerable population are truly commendable.” After telling the targets the falsified story about the grandchildren in jail, the fraudsters pressured seniors to provide bail money. According to the investigation, the defendants directed the victims to obtain the bail amount in cash, then place it into a box to be picked up by a courier. The couriers — unknowing ride - share drivers booked by the criminals — picked up the cash and transported the money back to the scammers at an arranged rendezvous spot. In a few instances, the scammers contacted the same victim multiple times pressuring for more cash. In one instance, a Palm Bay victim made an initial bond payment of $9,000, but fraudsters told the victim that the pregnant woman miscarried and the grandchild required an additional $18,000 because authorities upgraded the charges. The defendants then told the same victim the baby’s father attacked the senior’s grandson for causing the miscarriage, and during the course of the attack the grandchild elbowed a police officer, causing an additional $20,000 needed for bail, as well as $7,500 in court fees. The victim ended up paying the fraudsters more than $54,000. Nearly identical events happened to a Melbourne victim, who paid $53,000 to the criminal group. In another case, a Sarasota victim sent $8,000 and the fraudsters called back the next day saying the pregnant woman lost the child and requested another $4,000 for bail. The day after that, the defendants claimed the grandson owed medical bills due to the accident and required another $1,700. A victim in Pompano paid $30,000 for bail and later sent an additional $7,000 because the fraudsters claimed the pregnant woman died and the bond increased. These defendants preyed upon seniors in multiple counties, including Brevard, Broward, Lee, Miami-Dade, Orange, Palm Beach and Sarasota. The Miami-Dade Police Department, Sunny Isles Beach Police Department, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Brevard Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boca Raton Police Department, North Port Police Department, Broward County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Bay Police Department, Jupiter Police Department, Manatee County Sheriff's Office and West Palm Beach Police Department partnered together on the investigation. All six defendants, Jairo Izquierdo, Gennesis Castro, Wendy Angelina Ortiz, Ada Tido, Wandy Castro and Olfa Cornielle, face multiple First-Degree Felonies, including organized scheme to Defraud, Grand Theft, Criminal Use of Personal Identification and more. Attorney General Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution will prosecute this case. < Previous News Next News >

'Hunger Heroes Take Action': Feeding South Florida Kicks Off Hunger Action Month This September September 12, 2024 Share Feeding South Florida – the Leading Hunger-Relief Organization serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties – is commemorating Hunger Action Month this September with a myriad of activities to encourage South Floridians to “Go Orange” to stand against hunger. Hunger Action Month, a nationwide initiative created by Feeding America®, takes place throughout September and is designed to raise awareness about the issue of hunger in America and inspire others to take action toward ending it. This year Feeding South Florida’s theme is “Hunger Heroes Take Action.” 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 month-long initiative 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. An online auction during the month will allow bidders access to fun, unique items while supporting Feeding South Florida’s Hunger Relief Efforts. Go Orange t-shirts and orange mustaches will be available for purchase to raise awareness about hunger. Monetary Donations will go further during September with a one-to-one match with Delta Airlines, up to $25,000. Every donation is critical as a $1 Donation allows Feeding South Florida to provide approximately four meals to a family in need. Feeding South Florida will also host two Hunger Relief Town Hall Meetings during Hunger Action Month to educate the public and donors about Food Insecurity and Hunger Relief Efforts. The Hunger Relief Town Hall is a pivotal initiative hosted in collaboration with Health Choice Network, Feeding South Florida, Broward Community and Family Health Centers, University of Miami Health System and Jessie Trice Community Health System, through a grant from the National Institute of Health. This gathering brings together a diverse array of stakeholders – from community leaders and healthcare professionals to policymakers and grassroots advocates – to focus on tackling the multifaceted challenges of Food Insecurity head-on. The meetings will take place on September 6th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Miami Dade College, Wolfson Campus and on September 11th from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Nova Southeastern University’s Rick Case Arena. During Hunger Action Month, South Floridians can “Go Orange” by participating in various activities throughout the month including: • Start a Fund Drive: Raise money with coworkers, friends and family online. • Start a Food Drive: Feeding South Florida relies on the generous support of the community to host food drives to ensure it receives shelf-stable, high-demand products. • Participate in the 2024 Outrun Hunger 5K – Palm Beach County: (7:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 21st) Participants can raise funds for Feeding South Florida by running or walking during this fun-filled event taking place at the beautiful Okeeheelee Park (7715 Forest Hill Boulevard, West Palm Beach, Florida 33413). Participants can join the event as an individual or a team. • Pack to Give Back – Corporate Teams (September 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th): Companies are encouraged to volunteer to sort food and pack meal boxes for families at one of Feeding South Florida’s warehouses. Shifts include 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. • Volunteer: During Hunger Action Month, coworkers, family and friends are invited to volunteer to sort food at one of Feeding South Florida’s warehouses or help prepare and cook meals for children and seniors at Feeding South Florida’s 5,000-square-foot state-of-the-art multi-purpose Community Kitchen in Boynton Beach. Dates and times vary. For more details, visit: https://feedingsouthflorida.org/volunteer/. • Hunger Action Day (September 13th): Feeding South Florida celebrates Hunger Action Day, also known as “GO ORANGE DAY.” The community is invited to purchase a “Hunger Heroes” T-shirt for $25 and wear it to support ending hunger in South Florida by visiting: www.feedingsouthflorida.org/ham2024. Go Orange! Throughout the month, individuals can host an orange bake sale, government and municipalities can issue a proclamation for Hunger Action Month, hotels can welcome guests with an in-room display that showcases Hunger Action Month, schools can develop students’ skills by creating a project to promote hunger awareness and much more. During Hunger Action Month in the past, several landmark buildings including The Breakers, Miami Tower, and the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood Guitar Hotel all participated in “GO ORANGE DAY” by turning their lights orange. Register an individual or company's #GoOrange initiative to be added to Feeding South Florida’s community activity calendar. Contact: events@feedingsouthflorida.org . Unlock the Hunger Action Month Social Media Tool Kit at: www.feedingsouthflorida.org/ham2024 “Hunger Action Month is an opportunity for the community to come together to raise awareness about Food Insecurity and be a part of the solution,” stated Paco Vélez, President and CEO of Feeding South Florida. “We’re grateful for our South Florida community which participates in Hunger Action Month year after year to support our mission and help families in need. The month-long initiative will help us continue to raise awareness and crucial funds to put food on the table for South Florida families who need it the most.” For more information about Hunger Action Month, please visit: www.feedingsouthflorida.org/ham2024 or contact Allyson Vaulx at: Avaulx@feedingsouthflorida.org . Or: (954) 518-1818. Extension#: 1852. 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 >

8 Smart Ways to Save On Holiday Expenses Thu Nov 23 2023 17:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Call The Water Damage Experts: 1st Priority Restoration Will Fix it January 5, 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 “Mitiga-tion” 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 in a home or business. 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 Priority 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 remedy 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 Restora-tion, 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 and 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 important asset, so just like you go see a doctor for a test, your home needs testing as well. 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 sym-ptoms 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. Some-times, people may develop se-vere reactions to mold exposure, but cleaning and sanitizing by professionals you can trust, can help mitigate MOST OF the health issues. 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 Restoration, 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 and will meet your expectations. our customers are 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 >

Florida's Finest: Hometown Heroes Head To Paris For The Olympics August 1, 2024 Share The Paris Olympic Games has been underway for a week and around 10,500 athletes from 206 different National Olympic Committees are expected to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, with a significant proportion coming from Team USA. But where in the US are these athletes from? www.LiveSportsOnTV.com , a company that provides schedules for streaming and TV sports, carried out a study to analyze the birth states of US Olympians to identify which states will have the largest representation at the Paris Olympics. To provide a more accurate picture, they weighted each state by population, revealing which states produce the highest proportion of athletes. This study offers fresh insights into the geographic distribution of American athletic talent, here's who to watch. A Diverse Lineup from the Sunshine State Florida has the 2nd most athletes competing in the Paris Olympics, making it one of the top contributors to Team USA. These include athletes taking part in Basketball, Boxing, Breaking, Cycling, Diving, Golf, Judo, Rowing, Rugby, Sailing, Shooting, Skateboarding, Surfing, Swimming, Taekwondo, Tennis, Track and Field, Water Polo, and Artistic Swimming. Florida's contingent for the Paris Olympics spans a diverse range of sports, reflecting the state's rich athletic culture and favorable year-round training conditions. Athletes like Ashleigh Johnson, Daniella Ramirez, and Bam Adebayo, among others, are set to make their mark on the global stage, showcasing their talents and representing their hometowns with pride. Ashleigh Johnson: Water Polo's Defensive Dynamo Ashleigh Johnson, a Miami native and now a three-time Olympian, has carved out a reputation as one of the world's best Goalkeepers in Water Polo. Born to Jamaican parents, Johnson made history in 2016 as the first African American woman to join the U.S. Olympic Women's Water Polo Team, a testament to her skill, dedication, and barrier-breaking spirit. Her journey from Miami to Olympic stardom has inspired many in her community and beyond, highlighting the diversity and talent flourishing in Florida. Daniella Ramirez: Artistic Swimming's Rising Star Daniella Ramirez, a 22-year-old Synchronized Swimmer from Miami, brings a legacy of excellence in her sport. Raised in a family of Synchronized Swimmers, including her grandmother, mother, and sister, Ramirez has followed in their footsteps with a dream to study Architecture after her Swimming Career. Her journey from the virtual classrooms of Florida Virtual School to the pools of Paris represents a blend of academic pursuit and athletic achievement, embodying the multidimensional aspirations of Florida's Olympians. Bam Adebayo: Basketball's Powerhouse While not a native Floridian, Bam Adebayo has embraced Miami as his home since joining the Miami Heat in the NBA. A rising star in Professional Basketball, Adebayo's inclusion in the USA Men's Basketball Team underscores his pivotal role in the sport. Affectionately known as "Bamerica" among Miami Heat fans, Adebayo's journey from courts across America to the Olympic stage exemplifies the global appeal of Florida as a magnet for sports talent. Twanisha Terry: Sprinting towards Olympic Glory Twanisha Terry, a 25-year-old Sprinter known affectionately as TeeTee, embodies the spirit of determination and triumph. A product of Miami's competitive Track and Field environment, Terry's accolades include two gold medals at the World Athletics Championships, setting the stage for her Olympic debut in the 100m Dash. Her journey from the local tracks of Miami to the global stage of the Olympics exemplifies the transformative power of sports in shaping lives and communities. Perry Baker: Rugby Baker, 38, is from Daytona Beach and rugby wasn't his first sport. He played football for Fairmont State, an NCAA Division II team in West Virginia, and had been signed by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2011 but a knee injury ended his NFL career. Danielle Collins: Tennis Collins, 30, is from St. Petersburg and was on the Florida Gators' tennis team before transferring to the University of Virginia. She turned pro in 2016 and has won four WTA singles tournaments, including the 2024 Miami Open. Collins, also known as “Danimal," announced in January that the 2024 season would be her last. Kassidy Cook: Diving Cook, 29, of Plantation started diving when she was just 3. She missed qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics by one spot but made the team for the 2016 Rio Olympics, finishing 13th on the 3 meter springboard. Cook and Sarah Bacon will compete in women’s synchronized 3-meter in Paris. LeBron James: Basketball & Team USA Flagbearer In a historic announcement that reverberated through the sports world, LeBron James, the iconic two-time Olympic gold medallist and four-time NBA champion, has been selected as Team USA’s flagbearer for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony. The news, delivered by fellow basketball superstar Steph Curry just before Team USA’s hard-fought 92-88 victory over Germany on July 22, marked a poignant moment in James’ illustrious career. On July 26, James stepped onto the global stage as the first men’s basketball player to bear the American flag during an Olympic Opening Ceremony. This honor underscored not only his sporting achievements but also his profound impact on and off the basketball court. Since his Olympic debut in 2004, where he clinched a bronze medal, LeBron James has transcended the sport, earning the moniker 'King James' for his unparalleled prowess and leadership. With an impressive NBA career that includes four MVP titles and a record-breaking twenty All-Star appearances, James has cemented his legacy as one of basketball’s greatest. Beyond his athletic feats, James’ influence extends far beyond the hardwood. Through initiatives like the LeBron James Family Foundation, he has dedicated himself to uplifting his hometown of Akron, Ohio, and advocating for social justice causes. His activism has resonated globally, making him a role model for millions worldwide. "It’s super humbling," remarked James upon receiving the news of his selection as flagbearer, highlighting the significance of representing his country once again at the pinnacle of global sports. As Team USA prepares to defend its basketball supremacy in Paris, LeBron James will lead a contingent of athletes embodying the spirit of excellence and unity. His presence as flagbearer not only celebrates his extraordinary career but also symbolizes the values of determination, resilience, and sportsmanship that define the Olympic Games. Supporting Florida's Olympians Beyond their athletic prowess, Florida's Olympians are deeply rooted in their communities, with stories that resonate far beyond the sports arenas. Take Twanisha Terry, a Sprinter from Miami Northwestern Senior High School, whose journey to the Olympics alongside teammates like Sha'Carri Richardson symbolizes the perseverance and camaraderie nurtured in Florida's vibrant Track and Field scene. Florida's Olympic Legacy As Florida's Olympians prepare to compete in Paris, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of their communities and the legacy of athletic excellence nurtured in the Sunshine State. From the pristine beaches of Miami to the bustling streets of Fort Lauderdale, these hometown heroes embody the spirit of perseverance, diversity, and achievement that define Florida's sporting landscape. As the world watches the Paris 2024 Olympic Games unfold, Florida stands proud as a powerhouse of talent and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere. In the words of Emil Sturesson from www.LiveSportsOnTV.com , "Our study highlights the incredible athletic talent spread across the United States, and we look forward to watching Team USA perform and seeing these athletes achieve their dreams on the world stage." As the countdown to the Paris Olympics begins, Florida's Olympians stand ready to showcase their skills, unite their communities, and leave a lasting legacy in the annals of sporting history. Others States To Watch Washington, DC Although technically not a state, when weighed against population size, Washington, DC emerged with the gold medal in terms of number of athletes per capita (4 representatives). Possibly the most well-known athlete being NBA player, also known by his initials KD, who plays for the Phoenix Suns. Hawaii Hawaii, a state known for its Watersports, emerged in second place with 5 athletes, including John John Florence, one of the world’s leading and most recognizable surfers. Colorado In the bronze medal position, Colorado is to be represented by 19 athletes. Unsurprisingly, for a state made up of mountains, two of its Olympic representatives will be competing in sport climbing. California California not only has the highest number of athletes going to Paris, but also the 4th highest per capita, with 123 athletes. California is renowned for its sporting prowess, being home to numerous top-tier training facilities and a climate conducive to year-round outdoor training. This state has produced some of the most celebrated Olympians in history, and its representation in the 2024 Olympics is no different. Notable athletes include Allyson Felix, the most decorated Track and Field athlete in Olympic history, and Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time. "Our study highlights the incredible athletic talent spread across the United States, and we look forward to watching Team USA perform and seeing these athletes achieve their dreams on the world stage,” says Emil Sturesson of www.LiveSportsOnTV.com To check when your favorite Olympian competes visit: https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024/schedule/grid < Previous News Next News >

Hollywood Police Department Adopts 45 Families for Thanksgiving City of Hollywood November 25, 2021 Share This year School Resource Officers, along with assistance from school guidance counselors have identified and adopted approximately 45 families. The holidays are full of joy, excitement, and splendor, but for some it can be a financially challenging time. Each year the Hollywood Police Department comes together during the holiday season to try to make a difference and bring joy to those in need. The Department’s School Resource Officers are continuing the annual “Adopt a Family for Thanksgiving” tradition by donating thousands of dollars to help make the holiday festive for those who have fallen on hard times. This year School Resource Officers, along with assistance from school guidance counselors have identified and adopted approximately 45 families. Each family will receive a Thanksgiving dinner, complete with turkey, stuffing, pies, side dishes, and all the fixings. Funding for this program comes from individual Officers and support staff donations. The holiday gift giving continues with the annual “Shop with a Cop” and “Toy Drive” events. Due to CDC guidelines there are a few changes this year, but the overall goal remains the same – to help bring joy to children this holiday season. Our School Resource Officers have selected 25 well-deserving children to receive gift cards and taken on a Christmas shopping excursion to Walmart with the Officers. The children were selected by their respected School Resource Officers and Guidance Counselors based on community service, academics and their overall involvement within their respective schools. In years past, the Department visited Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital to distribute toys, however this year due to COVID-19 visitation guidelines, the distribution will be to children who may not have been able to receive a gift this holiday season. The kids will not only receive gifts, but will receive them from a Hollywood Police Officer who is not only promising to keep them safe, but who is also bringing them a little joy in the form of a toy for the holidays. < Previous News Next News >

The City of Hollywood is Using A New Web Solution That Helps Identify Unregistered Vacation Rentals June 3, 2021 Share through Artificial Intelligence to Help Manage Short-term Rental Compliance Granicus, a leading provider of cloud-based civic engagement technologies and services, has announced a partnership with the City of Hollywood to help manage short-term rental (STR) compliance. Hollywood will leverage Granicus’ Host Compliance product to improve registration and enforcement for its booming vacation rental market, create revenue to fund enforcement and reduce impacts to the quality of life for Hollywood residents. Located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale on the Atlantic coast of Florida, Hollywood is a popular vacation destination. Many tourists opt to stay in vacation rentals listed on sites like VRBO and Airbnb, rather than using, local hotels. This creates a variety of challenges for the City, including concerns from the hotel industry and neighborhood impacts that can flourish without strict short-term rental enforcement. These impacts range from parking issues to overflowing garbage carts, noise complaints - straining Hollywood’s response resources and impacting the quality of life for its permanent residents. To address these challenges, the Hollywood City Commission, recently approved changes to the existing Vacation Rental License Program Ordinance, requiring all vacation rentals city-wide, to be registered with the City, in addition, to obtaining a state license, being compliant with requirements like parking, occupancy limitations, trash collections and liability insurances. The City also strengthened its noise ordinance, it now requires that all vacation rentals be equipped with noise level detection devices. When only a small fraction of the City’s thousands of rentals registered accordingly, Hollywood’s local government knew they needed a technology solution to improve compliance. Already, a Granicus customer of nine years, Hollywood turned to the Granicus Civic Engagement Platform to meet, this emerging challenge. Host Compliance works by using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to scan more than 60 STR sites -including VRBO, Airbnb and FlipKey - to identify, property addresses. This provides cities with full visibility into their local vacation rental market, prevents owners from bypassing local re-gulations, ultimately streamlines compliance and tax collections. Granicus also offers a 24/7, non-emergency hotline, to allow residents to report concerns, like excessive noise, without tying up, emergency resources. “Tourism is a vital industry for our City - but, it can’t come at the expense of quality of life for our permanent residents,” said Andria Wingett, Assistant Director of Development Services, which includes code compliance. “We have a robust, growing, short-term rental market in Hollywood; monitoring its growth and fluctuation month-to-month is a gargantuan undertaking. We nee-ded a solution that could do the heavy lifting, help us create a welcoming, safe environment for both visitors and permanent residents. With its unparalleled ex-perience, AI-powered solutions and the 24/7 hotline, Host Compliance is delivered on all fronts.” Prior to working with Granicus, just 250 of Hollywood’s vacation rentals were registered with the City. Host Compliance has now identified more than 4,000 rental units, an increase of more than 3,750 units. Looking ahead, the AI-powered solution will monitor Hollywood’s STR market to boost registration, ensure compliance, streamline tax collection and to protect, the quality of life. For information on the City's Vacation Rental License, visit: https://www.hollywoodfl.org/946/Vacation-Rental-License < Previous News Next News >

Pigs Do Fly Productions - The Long Weekend October 24, 2024 Share Pigs Do Fly Productions will present Canadian Playwright Norm Foster’s The Long Weekend, a comedy of manners filled with numerous plot twists and a hilariously tangled web of truths, deceptions, and surprises. The production will run from November 1st - November 24th at Empire Stage in Fort Lauderdale. “Norm Foster’s plays definitely resonate with our audiences,” says Pigs Do Fly Executive Producer Ellen Wacher. “This is the third one of his plays we have produced. They are clever, and funny, but they also examine life and circumstances in ways that ring true – whether he’s analyzing established relationships or observing emerging or fluctuating ones. “His characters are often over the age of 50, which is great for us – that’s our target audience and that ties in perfectly with our mission statement.” She continues. “But - and this is a wonderful caveat – we have found over the past 8 and a half years that as our audiences have grown, they have diversified; it’s been so great to see younger people at the theater and enjoying what we’re offering. As I often say, good theater has no age limit!” As The Long Weekend opens Max and Wynn are preparing to show off their beautiful new summer home to their best friends, Roger and Abby. What is meant to be a relaxing holiday weekend turns into a battle of wits as their pasts catch up with them, the gloves come off and old scores are settled in comedic fashion. The production will be directed by Christopher Michaels: "The Long Weekend had me in absolute stitches on the subway while I gave it a first read," Michaels says. "It is hilariously well-written and all I could think was how much it felt like a sitcom: unit set, key cast, set-ups and punchlines, the overall pacing... And there was the challenge of putting a large country home in the intimate space at Empire Stage." Michaels is making his Pigs Do Fly directorial debut; this is his second South Florida theater directing credit, following his acclaimed production of Thrill Me: The Leopold and Loeb Story at Wilton Manors' Island City Stage last season. The Long Weekend cast consists of 2024 Carbonell Award Nominee and Silver Palm Award-Winner Karen Stephens as Abby, along with Janice Hamilton as Wynn, Alan Goodman as Roger, and Michael Coppola as Max. Norm Foster is considered Canada’s most produced playwright. An extremely prolific writer, frequently referred to as the Canadian Neil Simon, Foster has had more than fifty plays produced on professional stages. His plays are known for their humor, accessibility, and insight into ‘the everyday tribulations of life.’ The Stage Manager for The Long Weekend is Larry Buzzeo. Dean Landhuis is the show’s Scenic Designer, David Hart will do the Sound Design, and Preston Bircher will create the Lighting Design and serve as Technical Director. Costumes are by Saul Mendoza and MNM Theatre Company will build the sets. Jessica Kaschube is the Company Manager, and Patrick Vida will handle the Box Office. Tickets for The Long Weekend are $45 and are available online at: www.pigsdoflyproductions.com . Or by calling: (954) 678-1496. Performances are on Fridays at 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 5:00 p.m. All performances will take place at Empire Stage, 1140 North Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. < Previous News Next News >

Holy Cross Health Announces $6.5 Million Gift October 31, 2024 Share Transformational Gift From Wanda And Jim Moran, Jr. To Support A New CT Scanner For Emergency Department In one of the single largest gifts in Holy Cross Health's 69-year history, philanthropists Wanda and Jim Moran, Jr. and the Wanda & Jim Moran Foundation have donated $6.5 Million to support the hospital’s crucial needs. Their transformational gift will fund the purchase of a dedicated CT Scanner that enhances the diagnostic capabilities in the Emergency Department (ED) as well as conversion of an existing X-Ray room into a dedicated CT Room in the ED. Their gift will also support renovations and capital improvements in the hospital, including the acquisition of new medical equipment. Holy Cross Health will proudly name the building where the ED is located as the Wanda and Jim Moran, Jr. Emergency Department. “Our family has a long-standing relationship with Holy Cross Health,” said Jim Moran, Jr., President and Founder of the Wanda & Jim Moran Foundation. "We have always supported the Holy Cross mission and believe deeply in their commitment to providing exceptional care to the community. By contributing to the new CT Scanner for the Emergency Department, we hope to ensure that patients receive the most advanced diagnostic technology when they need it most. It is our privilege to be part of this transformational project that will make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of so many." The State-Of-The-Art Philips Spectral CT 7500 will be operational in the Holy Cross ED in late 2025/early 2026, significantly elevating the hospital’s diagnostic capabilities. This CT Scanner enables practitioners to provide faster, more accurate assessments and interventions for patients during their most vulnerable moments. The machine, which takes only two seconds to scan the chest, abdomen and pelvis, has a large bore and height-adjustable table to provide comfort for patients, while providing high-quality, low dose and low contrast images for physicians to review. “We are so blessed to have this donation, which will have a lasting impact on our ministry,” said Mark Doyle, President and CEO of Holy Cross Health. “This generous gift from the Moran’s and their foundation is not just an investment in equipment and capital improvements, it is an investment in the well-being of our community who rely on us every day as their trusted health partner.” Combined with previous contributions to Holy Cross, the couple’s support totals $8 Million. “I express my deepest gratitude to Wanda and Jim and their foundation,” said Laura Denoux, Vice President and Chief Development Officer for Holy Cross Health. “This is a momentous occasion for Holy Cross Health’s clinicians and patients. We look forward to the positive changes this transformational gift will bring. Through philanthropy, we are building excellence together.” Holy Cross has been recognized for six Types of Care in U.S. News and World Report’s 2024-25 Best Hospital rankings and was named among the 2024 America’s Best-In-State Hospitals by Newsweek. Through strategic collaborations and a commitment to being a person-centered, transforming, healing presence, the 557-bed hospital offers progressive inpatient, outpatient and community outreach services and clinical research trials to serve as our community’s trusted health partner for life. Holy Cross Health also encompasses Holy Cross HealthPlex Outpatient Facility, an urgent care center and more than 40 Holy Cross Medical Group physician practices. To learn more about Holy Cross Health, visit: www.holy-cross.com . < Previous News Next News >

No Class Needed! Four Easy Ways to Advance your Spanish Skills Thu Aug 15 2024 16:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)