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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 >

This Thanksgiving: It Is Time To Be Very Thankful & Careful By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper November 25, 2021 Share Now we can all get somewhat back to a normal holiday season but if you didn’t get Vaccinated remember you still can be a carrier The holidays are here. Along with them comes plenty of stress. It may seem odd that I am bringing up stress but due to COVID-19 there is plenty of it. Firstly, Vaccines do matter. The debate can continue over them, but they are safe and according to factual data, they help reduce either the risk of getting COVID-19 and if you do contract it is less likely that you will end up in an ICU or dead. My go to comment is, “Get The Vaccine, safe and easy. No Vaccine leads to sickness and possible death. It is an easy choice.” Now we can all get somewhat back to a normal holiday season but if you didn’t get Vaccinated remember you still can be a carrier. With that fact those that are not Vaccinated or have not received a booster are at risk. If you are not Vaccinated or are simply not worried about giving it to someone else remember the people you are around are your Grandparents, Moms, Dads, Brothers, Sisters and Friends. I know there are some individuals that cannot get the Vaccine but if you can go, take the time to get it. The past two years of COVID-19 have created havoc and destruction of life. This holiday season many will be sitting around the table having lost loved ones. My prayers go out to you. Over the past years I have been called about many deaths. At one point four days in a row I was being called about a resident passing. The stress from this alone is tragic and raw. The trauma of these deaths will be everlasting. COVID-19 has also hit our economy. Thankfully our government had issued COVID-19 Relief Packages to get the numerous employees who have been affected much needed funds. They also helped with policy relief for mortgages and rental assistance to keep people in their homes. This is truly something to be thankful for this holiday. Regretfully there are still many needy individuals that are now dealing with inflation and not working. It is such an unprecedented time in our country and around the World. I believe many of us all have a certain level of PTSD from the Pandemic. With the shadow of it still around and the economy impacting every single person. The stress of the holidays alone combined with the Pandemic cannot go unrecognized. We all need to take a pause and really be thankful for the simple pleasures of being alive. More importantly if we are out of the woods and closer to normalcy to those in our community, remember it is the time of “Thanksgiving.” If you cannot give your time or money, you can still be part of helping one another by simply being nice. The stress of the past two years has been showing. So much hate and anger is out there. Patience and kindness are something that is really tough when you are stressed and we all need to take a pause before we react. There are many community partners stepping up to the plate to help those in need and struggling. Rodriguez Charities helped this Thanksgiving, the city did a Drive By Turkey Dinner on Wednesday. In addition, 300 families from our local schools received a meal and a gift card to purchase items for the holiday. In December even though the City also was hit by COVID-19 and with a tight budget, there will be a Holiday Lighting held on December 3rd at the Historic Curci Village. Chabad of South Florida is holding their annual Chanukah Concert on December 5th in the evening at The Big Easy Casino. So as they say, it takes a village and we are fortunate to have partners that step up to the plate. Gulfstream Park has opened the Sport of Kings for our “Hope for the Holidays.” We also had other partners donating to make sure that selected families have toys under the tree. All of these events could use a helping hand so if you can help or donate, please know they are free events. Come out and enjoy yourself and if you are in true need, please reach out to me and I will do my best to point you in the right direction. Wishing everyone a Blessed Thanksgiving! 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 >

Here Comes Santa Claus At Gulfstream Park Village! South Florida’s Ultimate Home Store, Entertainment & Restaurant Destination Welcomes Visits From Santa This Holiday Season Mon Dec 12 2022 17:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Steps to Help Teens Plan Financially for the Future By Family Features August 22, 2024 Share For teenagers, retirement may seem like a lifetime away, but it's never too early to start saving for the future. Because financial habits can be created at a young age, the sooner kids begin to save and learn about investing, the less likely they'll face worries about money when they eventually stop working. Teens are already thinking about retirement, according to the Achievement Teens & Retirement Survey conducted by Wakefield Research on behalf of Junior Achievement and MissionSquare Retirement's Foundation. Among young adults ages 13-18 surveyed, 83% have thought about their retirement and 78% believe they'll be able to retire comfortably when the time comes. However, only 60% view retirement as living on investments and savings after leaving work, believing instead retirement could mean taking extended time off for travel, study, illness or taking care of family matters. "This research shows retirement is more top-of-mind for teens than one might think," said Tim Greinert, President of Junior Achievement USA. "While young people have given retirement planning some thought, it's apparent they still need information on the best way to go about it." Because nearly half of U.S. households (46%) report having nothing saved for retirement, according to the Survey of Consumer Finances, taking steps early to save and invest can help teens get a head start on achieving a successful retirement. 1. Start now. The sooner you start, the longer you have to save and for investments to grow. Even though contributions may be small during your teens and 20s, it can make a dramatic difference in the long run. 2. Pay yourself first. Whether through a dedicated savings account or an employer's retirement plan, set aside a set percentage of each paycheck. Then prioritize spending on what you truly need and want. 3. Invest what you save. Unless you save a lot, you'll need to make the most of your savings by investing them to help them increase in value. According to the survey, teens believed investing in stocks and bonds with the help of a financial advisor (45%) or researched online (38%), buying real estate or property (30%) and buying cryptocurrency or non-fungible tokens (15%) are among the best ways to save for retirement. 4. Find the right balance between investment risk and potential return. The ideal mix is one most likely to help meet investment goals with a level of risk you can handle. The longer you have to invest, the more risk you can likely take. 5. Spread savings across different types of investments. This helps you manage risk. As some investments go through rough stretches, others are likely to hold steady or grow. 6. Stick with your investing plan. Avoid making decisions based on emotions or in an attempt to time the ups and downs of the market. Focus instead on meeting goals over time. "The fact that so many young adults in the early stages of their careers are aware of a variety of investment strategies is encouraging news," said Deanna Santana, President, MissionSquare Foundation. "Over the course of our lifetimes, investment approaches, the economy and our priorities will change, so planning for life after work is an ongoing necessity - for teens and adults alike." Find more advice to plan for the future and achieve economic success at: https://jausa.ja.org/ - And: www.missionsq.org < Previous News Next News >

Taste At The Track Returns To Gulfstream Park! South Florida’s Ultimate Home Store, entertainment And Restaurant Destination Welcomes Back A Special Edition Of This Food-Focused Event on Saturday, April 1st, 2023. March 16, 2023 Share Food and wine lovers, get ready to indulge! “Taste at the Track” is returning to Gulfstream Park. The next installment of this fan-favorite series returns on Saturday, April 1 from 1-4 p.m. with a “Wine & Dine” theme. Taste at the Track combines the best of both worlds: food and drink and horse racing. Taking place in the third floor Flamingo Room overlooking the racetrack, guests can enjoy all-you-can-eat food and drink stations. After the tasting, guests can stay in the Flamingo Room to watch the exciting Florida Derby at 6:45 p.m. This gourmet wine-tasting experience will feature an array of top wine producers including Conundrum Sauvignon Blanc, Bonanza Cabernet, Chateau Ste Michelle Chardonnay and Merlot, Simi Chardonnay, Meiomi Pinot Noir, Brancott Sauvignon Blanc, Pink Flamingo Rosé, Acrobat Pinot Noir, Ferrari Carano Fumé Blanc, Trinchero Family Wines, Boen Pinot Noir, Gundlach Bundschu Mountain Cuvee, Newton Chardonnay and Cabernet and many others. Guests can enjoy a variety of charcuterie, cheeses and gourmet tapas paired with their favorite premium Red, Rosé and Sparkling Wines. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets early as this event is sure to sell out! General admission tickets for 1-4 p.m. are $100; VIP tickets for 12-4 p.m. can be purchased for $125. Guests must be 21 and over to attend the event. For more information on Taste at the Track and to purchase tickets, please visit: https://www.gulfstreampark.com/events/ Discover top entertainment all season long at Gulfstream Park. Get ready to sing and dance with the Voices of Classic Soul and Raydio featuring Arnell Carmichael. On Thursday, March 23, the groups will perform at the Sport of Kings Theater, located on the second floor of the Gulfstream Park Clubhouse. The Sport of Kings Theater is the perfect venue for an intimate concert experience, with only four levels of seating for 550 guests. Guests can also see the show in style from the VIP section, where food and beverages can be enjoyed at cocktail tables. The Voices of Classic Soul consists of former lead vocalists of The Temptations, The Platters, The Drifters and The Four Tops. They will be performing everyone’s favorite Motown hits including “The Great Pretender,” “Under the Boardwalk,” “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg” and more. Raydio, founded by Ray Parker Jr. and Arnell Carmichael, will be bringing 70’s and 80’s Funk, Pop and R&B to the stage. It is guaranteed to be a night to remember! For more information or to purchase a ticket, visit: https://www.gulfstreampark.com/event/entertainment/voices-of-classic-soul-with-raydio Music in the Park, Gulfstream Park Village’s favorite live entertainment series, continues its weekly performances with the area’s favorite musical talent. Taking place Wednesday through Sunday nights from 6:30-9:30 p.m., Music in the Park is sure to get audiences dancing. These open-air performances take place on the center stage and feature rotating bands on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday nights. Saturdays are DJ/Family Nights. Free to attend, Music in the Park has proven to be one of Gulfstream’s most popular ongoing events. For additional live music, the Casino Stage features a DJ on Friday nights from 7-11 p.m. and a live band on Saturday nights from 7-11 p.m. The Breezeway Stage features rotating DJs on Saturdays from 1-5 p.m. and the Carousel Club features live music Friday-Sunday during all open hours. “We are excited to welcome food and wine lovers to this special edition of Taste at the Track,” said Alex Schreer, Director of Experiential Marketing at Gulfstream Park Village. “Guests can experience one of the biggest races of the year at the track while enjoying a variety of wine and tapas with dynamic views from our signature Flamingo Room.” About Gulfstream Park Gulfstream Park is South Florida’s premier entertainment, dining and restaurant destination, located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, anchored by the legendary Gulfstream Park Racetrack. Gulfstream Park not only offers world-class Thoroughbred horse racing but is also home to a casino and family-friendly venues including over 15 restaurants, outdoor cafes, art galleries, fashion retailers, state-of-the-art bowling alley, and a renowned selection of signature home stores. Gulfstream Park, voted a 2020 Top Travelers' Choice Winner by TripAdvisor, is located at 901 South Federal Highway in Hallandale Beach, Florida, just two miles east of I-95. Valet service and complimentary self-parking are available. Gulfstream Park is open seven days a week. For hours, schedules, upcoming events and additional information, visit: https://www.gulfstreampark.com/ Or call: (954) 454-7000. < Previous News Next News >

Supercar Saturdays Debuts At Gulfstream Park Village: The Supercharged Event Rolls Into South Florida’s Favorite Entertainment Destination Mon Feb 06 2023 17:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Holly-Go, Hollywood’s Free Community Shuttle Service Thu Sep 26 2024 16:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A New State Of Segregation: Vaccine Cards Are Just The Beginning Thu Aug 12 2021 04:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

From Conflict To Compassion - Divided Homeland Inspires Author To Build Bridges Through Stories Of Love Jewish Connection News Jun 4, 2025 Jerusalem-Born Author And Entrepreneur Michael Weiss Grew Up Immersed In An Environment Where Conflict Was Common, But Today, He Chooses To Focus On Universal Aspects Of The Human Experience That Transcend Borders, Cultures And Languages. “Whether it’s a tale of forbidden love in a remote village, a modern romance navigating the complexities of urban life or a historical love story set against the backdrop of changing societal norms, my books reflect the infinite shades of love,” Weiss said. His first book, A Thousand Gates of Prayer, transports readers to the tranquil beauty of Hakone, Japan, where ancient shrines guard misty hillsides and every path feels touched by spirit. A forbidden love quietly blooms between Miyuki, a young woman deeply rooted in her village’s traditions and Masahiro, heir to a prestigious Kyoto family. As Miyuki and Masahiro’s connection deepens, they find themselves caught between loyalty and longing, tradition and change. When a powerful construction project threatens to erase Miyuki’s beloved village, their private romance becomes a public stand. With the help of an intrepid investigative journalist, they uncover a trail of corruption far more dangerous than either imagined, forcing them to risk everything—not just for each other, but for a way of life on the verge of vanishing. For Weiss, the desire to showcase the beauty and resilience of love as it weaves through different cultures doesn’t stop at being an author. He established a publishing house dedicated to global romance fiction and supporting diverse authors called Timeless Love Publishing. “Through these diverse and heartfelt stories, I aim not just to entertain, but to inspire, heal and build bridges of empathy across continents,” Weiss said. His second book, Sunrise Over Numbi Gate, tells the gripping story of Emily, a young American woman whose dream trip to South Africa shatters when she’s kidnapped during a safari with her father and brother. Held captive deep within the wilds of Kruger National Park, Emily’s only hope comes from an unexpected source—Thabo, one of her captors, who risks everything to help her escape. “At Timeless Love Publishing, every book is more than a love story—it’s a thread in a larger tapestry of human connection, woven with care, courage and compassion,” Weiss added. “We invite readers to explore this world with us—to help celebrate the beauty of love in all its extraordinary forms—and we welcome talented authors from around the globe who dream of bringing their love stories to life.” About the Author Michael Weiss is a Jerusalem-born, award-winning Entrepreneur in culinary tourism, travel tech and storytelling. After serving in the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit and working as an investigative journalist, he founded Wave, a strategic consulting agency and co-founded: Scoop.co.il , a crowdsourced news platform featured on national TV. He later launched www.GoJerusalem.com - And: YallaBasta.co.il , Israel’s leading culinary tourism company, followed by bitemojo—the world’s first self-guided food tour app—active in 14 global cities and recognized by: www.Booking.com , VISA and the WTO. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Weiss founded Mask&Co, Israel’s top-selling designer mask brand. In 2025, he launched Timeless Love Publishing. He holds a BA in Mass Psychology and an MA in Communication & Public Opinion. Weiss lives in Jerusalem with his wife Yael and their four children. For more information, please visit: https://timelesslovepublishing.com/ - Or connect with the author on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Threads (michaelweissauthor). A Thousand Gates of Prayer can be found on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/Thousand-Gates-Prayer-Michael-Weiss/dp/9657867002 Previous Next

Parenting In The Digital Age: Tips To Uphold Kids’ Mental Health By Merilee Kern, MBA September 19, 2023 Share There has been much critical discourse about the escalating Children’s Mental Health Crisis relative to how benchmarks like Stress, Anxiety and loneliness are driving Depression and other serious Psychological conditions amongst youth populations like never before. Of course, children are not the only ones suffering, as parents and caregivers struggle to prevent, address and treat concerns in order to uphold kids’ Emotional Well-Being. In this process, the adults themselves are suffering in kind—often exacerbating their own Mental and Emotional struggles amid the copious complexities of modern life. This, of course, has a litany of macro-economic implications. As one case in point, a Morgan Stanley Alliance for Children's Mental Health research report : https://www.morganstanley.com/articles/childrens-mental-health-effect-on-parents cited that six in ten of those who are concerned say their Children’s Mental Health has impacted them negatively, with nearly half of those indicating it has affected their productivity at work. The report goes on to reveal that fully 48% of working parents who reported concern said their children’s mental health has impacted their performance at work in some way—including having to deal with disruptions and an inability to concentrate on the job. Some concerned working parents have considered reducing their working hours to support their child(ren) while others have even considered quitting their jobs altogether. Relative to the role Internet use, specifically, plays into the Children’s Mental Health Crisis, other reported research from the Child Mind Institute found approximately half of parents polled expressed concern over the impact of internet use on Cognitive, Social and Emotional Development, visit: https://www.morganstanley.com/articles/family-internet-use-survey “In today's digital age, parents are tasked with navigating an ever-evolving technology landscape to address and safeguard their kids’ Mental Health while also balancing work and parenting—an endeavor that has become a daunting—often seemingly impossible—task that’s ushered in an era of pressure-driven parenting,” says Neuropsychologist, American Mothers New York State “Mother of the Year” Award Recipient and Brilliant Minds Unite Founder, Dr. Jatali Bellanton—Author of Kidpreneurs and Founder of the Kids Who Bank Financial Literacy Program deployed in hundreds of elementary schools across the United States. “It is certainly possible for kids to thrive and deeply benefit from technological advancements. But, parents and caregivers must wholeheartedly commit to not just monitor such usage and activities, but also achieve and sustain healthy boundaries away from screens and buttons—both the kids and the adults. The key is to fill that tech downtime with activities that foster connectivity to, and a reverence for, ‘real world’ experiences. And, when technology is in use, to remain hyper observant and aware ensure it’s not impeding the child’s Mental Health in any way whether before, during or after. If red flags are present, however minor, it’s imperative to address them immediately.” Social Media has long been a culprit of compromising kids’ Mental Health. A new American Psychological Association Health Advisory on Social Media use in adolescence offers the following scientific evidence-based recommendations, visit: https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/health-advisory-adolescent-social-media-use 1. Youth using Social Media should be encouraged to use functions that create opportunities for social support, online companionship, and emotional intimacy that can promote healthy socialization. 2. Social Media use, functionality, and permissions/consenting should be tailored to youths’ developmental capabilities; designs created for adults may not be appropriate for children. 3. In early adolescence (i.e., typically 10–14 years), adult monitoring (i.e., ongoing review, discussion, and coaching around Social Media content) is advised for most youths’ Social Media use; autonomy may increase gradually as kids age and if they gain digital literacy skills. However, monitoring should be balanced with youths’ appropriate needs for privacy. 4. To reduce the risks of psychological harm, adolescents’ exposure to content on Social Media that depicts Illegal or Psychologically Maladaptive Behavior, including content that instructs or encourages youth to engage in Health-Risk Behaviors, such as Self-Harm (e.g., cutting, Suicide), harm to others, or those that encourage Eating-Disordered Behavior (e.g., restrictive eating, purging, excessive exercise) should be minimized, reported, and removed; moreover, technology should not drive users to this content. 5. To minimize psychological harm, adolescents’ exposure to “Cyberhate” including Online Discrimination, Prejudice, Hate, or Cyberbullying especially directed toward a marginalized group (e.g., Racial, Ethnic, Gender, Sexual, Religious, ability status) or toward an individual because of their identity or allyship with a marginalized group should be minimized. 6. Adolescents should be routinely screened for signs of “problematic Social Media use” that can impair their ability to engage in daily roles and routines, and may present risk for more serious Psychological harms over time. 7. The use of Social Media should be limited so as to not interfere with adolescents’ sleep and physical activity. 8. Adolescents should limit use of Social Media for social comparison, particularly around beauty- or appearance-related content. 9. Adolescents’ Social Media use should be preceded by training in Social Media Literacy to ensure that users have developed Psychologically-informed competencies and skills that will maximize the chances for balanced, safe, and meaningful Social Media use. 10. Substantial resources should be provided for continued scientific examination of the positive and negative effects of Social Media on adolescent development. Dr. Bellanton, also a technology futurist and leading Metaverse influencer, has some additional valuable insights into how parents can navigate this tricky, ever-changing terrain—especially for younger elementary-age children. 1. Ditch rigid schedules. While it's essential to have some structure in your child's daily routine, it's equally important to provide flexibility. Instead of imposing a strict, timed schedule on your child's educational or other activities, Dr. Bellanton recommends creating a more relaxed and flexible approach that fits around the parents’ work schedule. 2. Create Safe Folders for YouTube Videos and Shows that your child is allowed to watch. With the abundance of inappropriate content available on the internet, it can be challenging to monitor what your child is watching. However, by creating Special YouTube Folders and Streaming Media Playlists on Netflix, parents can control the content their children consume and avoid unnecessary worry. 3. Introduce your children to hobbies that require the use of different parts of the brain. Whether it's sculpting, painting, or physical activities that teach children how to utilize new tools, engaging in a hobby at least once every other day can help children develop new skills and foster creativity. 4. Creating a star chart system is another effective way to incentivize and reward children for doing things that do not involve digital devices. For instance, parents can reward their children for cleaning, reading, or playing outside, instead of spending time on screens. 5. Parents can also take advantage of the metaverse by teaching their children how to build and make money through playing video games. Children can be introduced to games that allow them to learn how to make money and build skills while playing. 6. Have conversations with children about online predators and to teach them to be cautious when playing games like Roblox. Parents should also pay attention to the music played in games, as some songs may contain inappropriate lyrics. 7. Put timers on devices to limit screen time. Parents can set a specific amount of time for their children to watch videos or play games on their devices, ensuring they have a healthy balance of screen time and other activities. Parenting in the digital age is a challenge that requires a multifaceted and highly concerted approach with tactical strategies that must be employed with intention and upheld with consistency. Doing so will allow families to embrace the litany of benefits the digital age affords and use them to derive emotional and lifestyle advantages versus impairments. < Previous News Next News >

Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Seeks Volunteer Ushers Thu Dec 22 2022 17:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hallandale Beach Budget: Includes A Lowered Tax Rate This Year As promised By Joy Cooper Hallandale Beach Mayor July 11, 2024 Share At our last meeting before the July break, the Commission adopted our Tentative Millage Rate, Fire Fee, Debt Service and Safe Neighborhood Tax rates. Over the past months, the Staff and the Commission have been working on the 2024-2025 Budget. We had a briefing on the progress and were pleased that we are right on course. We have received the property valuations from the Broward County Property Appraiser's Office for Hallandale Beach. The citywide average property increase was 9%. Last year during our strategic 5-year plan we projected revenues for this year based on a 4% increase, so this was welcomed news. It kept us on track to reduce our Tax Rate. The increase in Revenues, a robust reserve and fiscally prudent strategic planning has reduced the Tax Rate from 8.24698 to 7.9998. Our surplus funds are over the required 16% of General Fund Balance. Like last year there was a debate over cutting the Tax Rate even more. During the commission Debate, Dr. Earle warned us just because we have an above level reserve, “we are not out of the woods yet.” Remember last week, I shared we took $780,000 from reserves to buy much needed equipment to address flooding. Tentative rates are set as part of the State’s statutory process. Under Save Our Homes and Truth in Millage there are a series of milestones that must be taken to ensure taxpayers are notified and prepared for the coming year’s taxes. The process ensures taxpayers have the ability to participate in the public hearing process before a final rate is passed by the Commission in September. Once the tentative rate is set, the City and the taxing authorities cannot increase their Tax Rate, but it can be reduced. Property appraisers in every county will be sending out tentative tax statements to all property owners. It is not the final bill. The final bills will be sent after October 1st. The Truth in Millage was established and requires the statement to include what last year’s taxes were, that rate would be to collect the same revenue as last year based on the new values and what the new tentative Tax Rate is set at. The procedure requiring this type of statement is really not equitable. It is predicated on a concept that cities can operate and provide the same level of services at the same cost as the previous year. In other words, in a bubble free from all market conditions. While taxable values can go up and in turn increase revenues it does not include the true cost of services. Just like in your household the cost to maintain has gone up. Just like a business the cost of personnel supplies and insurance has gone up. Many cities set a higher rate at this time to provide flexibility. They can then fine tune and develop their budgets. As a City, we have a policy of setting the rate not higher but at a rate that we have calculated and planned for since February while developing the Budget. Last year, we projected the reduction and if it had not been for remarkably accurate strategic planning it would not have occurred. While the rate can be reduced, we do not artificially increase it and simply reduce it. That is disingenuous. This year’s Budget began with the goals of having a balanced budget with no use of reserves while addressing our old Infrastructure and addressing the concerns of our residents. This year, we conducted a citywide survey so we can continue to move forward with measurable results. The tentative rate may still be reduced. At the Commission Meeting, we discussed many items including Staffing Levels. We continued the ongoing evaluation of contracted services. The City has always, and I concur, contracts for services should only be where and when they make sense. We have always looked at a hybrid approach. Contracts often leave municipalities with little control over quality and little or no control over built in cost increases. At this meeting, the Budget is now given to the Commission. We get our chance now along with the public to review and analyze the data, projects and programs. One item that was on my list was the carrying of vacant employee positions. Every city continues to have issues filling positions. The challenge is not simply finding talent, it is the overall cost of living. Each department budgets for employees that they deem are needed to accomplish the tasks at hand. There was a commitment from the City Manager to move forward over the next few weeks to reevaluate the requests and whether the positions are vital and needed. The review will also include whether duties that can be combined while not overburdening existing Staff resulting in burn out or worse resignations. The other item we passed was an increase in our Fire Fee. We have not increased this rate since 2018, six years. Cities can charge a fee for Fire Services. Fire and EMS are funded through both a general fund and a Fire Suppression Fee. The fee is calculated according to the type of property and square footage. We have a specialized third-party auditor to perform this calculation. The auditor evaluates all the costs, excluding EMS and Fire Inspections Services to see how much can be paid for through the Fire Fee. For example, a fire truck can be paid for directly from the Fire Fee. These costs are in the millions of dollars. Currently the fee is $265.06, the study actually found the maximum Fire Fee could be $385.48 for each residential unit with an increase on other properties based on use and square footage. It was recommended to increase the fee by only $82.92. This would allow for planning purchases and spread out any increases rather than a large amount up front. This rate obviously raised eyebrows on the Dais. Even though it was not the full amount. On the one hand we are lowering the Millage and reducing Taxes while on the other increasing the fee. This will be another important debate. Both Safe Neighborhood Districts Millage Rates will remain the same. This means a slight increase. The rates are not being reduced since there are capital improvements being planned to improve both areas. The current debt service for paying off the Parks GO Bond has been reduced. At this time, I cannot tell you what the other taxing agencies, Broward County, Hospital District School Board nor the Water Management District, are planning. I will go into further detail over the next weeks to review capital projects, our Homeless Initiative and additional program enhancements. I will also review the increase needed in our Stormwater Rates to maintain and increase Stormwater Management. This is extremely vital for a sustainable future but it is also expensive. As always feel free to contact me anytime with your questions and concerns at my mail to: jcooper@cohb.org . Or at: mail to: joycooper@aol.com . I can always be reached by Phone or Text at: (954) 632-5700. Working for you! Always Have! Always will! < Previous News Next News >