Fraud And Cyber Crime In Hallandale Beach And Beyond Thu Mar 14 2024 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Healthy Holiday Tips for Pregnant People Family Features December 12, 2024 Share The holidays often bring colder weather and more indoor gatherings. Respiratory viruses like flu, COVID-19 and RSV are common this time of year. Illness from these viruses can be dangerous for pregnant people and newborns. Staying up to date on vaccines for flu, COVID-19 and RSV during pregnancy can offer protection, and now is the time to get vaccinated if you haven't already. "During the holidays, pregnant people can help protect their health and the health of their baby by getting updated vaccines," said Dr. Rachel Levine, Assistant Secretary for health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). "During the holidays, you're more likely to be exposed to flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Vaccination not only helps build up your immune system but can give protection for your little one." Here are some tips from the HHS Risk Less. Do More. public education campaign for a safe and festive holiday season: Get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19. Getting sick with flu or COVID-19 can be dangerous for people who are pregnant and young infants. During pregnancy, there is a greater risk of flu or COVID-19 infections becoming severe and leading to hospitalization. Babies are also at risk of severe flu and COVID-19, but they cannot get vaccines until they are 6 months old. By getting vaccinated during pregnancy, you pass on antibodies that help protect your baby during the first few months of life. Get vaccinated against RSV if you're eligible. RSV is a common cause of severe respiratory illness in infants. In fact, it is the top reason babies in the United States are hospitalized each year. You can get an RSV vaccine if you are 32-36 weeks pregnant between September and January, the months when RSV spreads the most. The RSV vaccine helps your baby build protection from severe RSV before birth. If you do not get an RSV vaccine during pregnancy, your newborn can still get protection through a preventive antibody immunization soon after birth. Stay home or change plans when ill. If you are not feeling well, stay home to avoid spreading illness. Also, if someone you plan to see is sick or respiratory viruses are surging in your community, consider staying home. You can also wear a mask or, if weather permits, move the gathering outdoors. If you have questions or concerns, talk to your doctor. Knowing the facts about vaccines and pregnancy can offer confidence and comfort. Visit: www.cdc.gov/RiskLessDoMore to learn more about getting your flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines before the holidays. Or visit: www.vaccines.gov to get started. < Previous News Next News >

Hollywood Police Launch New Program: School Zone Safety Cameras To Combat Speeding And Enhance Student Safety August 15, 2024 Share Speeding in school zones poses a serious and potentially fatal risk. To address this issue, the City of Hollywood has implemented a school zone safety camera program aimed at reducing the number of speeding vehicles in these areas. This program will cover 33 public, private, and charter schools. School zones are clearly marked with additional speed limit signs, regulatory time placards, and photo-enforced signs. These warning signs will assist in slowing down traffic, leading to fewer crashes and injuries. Cameras will be used to identify vehicles exceeding the posted speed limit. Drivers caught speeding 11 mph or more over the limit within these zones will receive a violation notice by mail. The School Zone Speed Cameras are now operational with a 30-day grace period during which only warnings will be issued. This period is intended to encourage drivers to adjust their habits and slow down. During this time, violators will receive a warning notice without a fine. The speed cameras are active and enforced on school days from 30 minutes before school starts until 30 minutes after it ends. Violations are classified as civil, not traffic, and carry a fine of $100. The City is committed to slowing down drivers and protecting kids in the community. Please drive safely in school zones and in the community. To learn more about the program and see a list of schools, visit: www.hollywoodfl.org/1543/School-Zone-Safety-Camera-Program Back To School Join in the fun at the Community Enhancement Collaboration's - 19th Annual Back-to-School & Family Fun Day this Saturday, August 17th, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will be held at the Washington Park Community Center, 5199 Pembroke Road, Hollywood, Florida 33021. For more information, visit: www.cecwashpark.org Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk Looking for a FREE fun night out? Come to the Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk, this Saturday, August 17th. You will have the opportunity to visit galleries and shops in Downtown Hollywood while enjoying art, cultural entertainment, live music, murals and more! Artisan Market at the ArtWalk: 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Join locals for the Artisan Market at the ArtWalk! Featuring pop-up shops, artist showcases, handmade items, local purveyors, vintage shopping, boutique goods and FUN! Located on Harrison Street between 20th & 21st Avenue. Mural Tour: 6:00 p.m. This FREE guided tour lets you learn the stories behind the art and artists of the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project. Meet at the Information Tent at 20th Avenue & Harrison Street. Gallery Tour: 7:00 p.m. & 9:00 p.m. Join Evan Snow of Choose954 for a FREE guided and curated ArtWalk experience. Get an opportunity to meet with the local artists of each gallery in Downtown Hollywood. Meet at the Information Tent at 20th Avenue & Harrison Street. Cinema Paradiso: 10:00 p.m. Catch an amazing sleight-of-hand performance by "Magic Jack" Maxwell at 2008 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33020. The event is FREE. Live Music: 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. FREE live performances on August 17th, 2024: 6:00 p.m.: DJ Tony Tiru, 8:00 p.m.: TBA on the MAIN STAGE: Harrison Street at 21st Avenue. For More information, call: (954) 924-2980 Parking Information Downtown Hollywood offers On-Street Metered Parking for $1.50 Per Hour, as well as Municipal Garage Parking for $1 Per Hour. Municipal garage location: 251 South 20th Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33020 (between Harrison Street and Van Buren Street). Valet Parking is available for a $10 Flat Rate Thursday - Sunday, 5:00 p.m. - 5:00 a.m., and is conveniently located in front of 1925 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33020. < Previous News Next News >

Ho Ho Hot Wheels! - Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Members Receive Bicycles For The Holidays January 8, 2025 Share Donned in a Santa hat with a Christmas bulb necklace around her neck and Jolly Old St. Nicholas by her side, Rita Case, President and CEO of the Rick Case Automotive Group, surprised members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County with bikes as part of Rick Case Bikes for Kids. The group visited the Rick Case Honda showroom in Davie, Florida, where they found a bike tagged with their name on it. For 42 years, Rick Case Bikes for Kids has collected gently used bikes from the community. “This has become my favorite holiday tradition,” said Case. “I give to various causes close to my heart throughout the year, but what makes Rick Case Bikes for Kids so special is that the community comes together during this season of giving. That’s what the holidays are all about. Bicycles are a gift that provides fun, fitness and independence. Plus, it gets kids outdoors and away from screens, reminiscent of the generation I grew up in. Bikes are timeless.” Since 1982, Rick Case Bikes for Kids has collected more than 120,000 bikes at their dealerships in Broward County, Florida and in Duluth and Roswell, Georgia and gifted them to children through the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, Lawrenceville Boys & Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity of Broward, Women in Distress, Broward County Public Schools and other local charitable organizations, churches, synagogues and schools. “We appreciate the generosity of Rita and her team in bringing the holiday spirit to life for our kids,” said Matt Organ, Co-CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. Rick Case Automotive Group dealerships begin accepting donations of gently used bicycles during Bikes for Kids every year in October. About The Rick Case Automotive Group Founded in 1962, the Rick Case Automotive Group has been honored by Automotive News as the National All-Star Dealer and President and CEO Rita Case was named the 2024 TIME Dealer of the Year. Rick Case Automotive Group is the nation’s largest female owned and operated automotive dealer group in America, offering Honda, Hyundai, Genesis, Ioniq, Volkswagen, Kia, Acura, Audi, Mazda, Maserati, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Honda Motorcycles and E-Z-Go golf carts. Celebrating more than 60 years in business, the Rick Case Automotive Group has 12 dealerships in South Florida and Georgia. The South Florida dealerships are known for holding national sales records, consistently ranking among the top performers in markets they serve. Rick Case Automotive Group is headquartered at 14500 West Sunrise Boulevard, Sunrise, Florida 33323. For more information, visit: www.RickCase.com . < Previous News Next News >

Beware Of These Financial Myths And Misconceptions About Retirement Thu Jun 03 2021 04:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Norman Love Confections Announces 2025 Holiday And Hanukkah Collections, Perfect For Holiday Gifting And Celebrations Jewish Connection News Nov 20, 2025 It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year To Indulge In Handcrafted, Ultra-Premium Chocolates From World Renowned Chocolatier, Norman Love Confections. The 2025 Holiday Collection And 2025 Hanukkah Collection Will Be Limited-Edition Assortments Of Artisan Chocolates Inspired By Tradition And Expertly Crafted By Norman Love Confections’ Award-Winning Chocolatiers To Beautifully Capture The Spirit Of The Season. “We created these collections to evoke warm, happy holiday memories with every delicious bite,” said Lisa Fisher, CEO of Norman Love Confections. Holiday Collection Flavor Descriptions: • Candy Cane – white chocolate, smooth frosted candy cane ganache • Eggnog—white chocolate, silky sweet and spiced with dark rum • S’More—milk chocolate, toasted marshmallows with graham crackers • White Christmas—milk chocolate, hazelnut, praline and cinnamon • Gingerbread—milk chocolate, spiced gingerbread morsels • Holiday Spiced Caramel—dark chocolate, buttery caramel, infused with festive spice • Jingle Bell Java—dark chocolate, rich coffee ganache with holiday notes • Snowflake—white chocolate, smooth vanilla ganache, accented with roasted almonds • Cranberry Cream Torte—dark chocolate, tart cranberries blended with sweet white chocolate • Cinnamon Hot Chocolate—dark chocolate, bittersweet chocolate infused with cinnamon and chili Hannukah Collection Flavor Descriptions: • Chocolate Babka – Rich, decadent chocolate and cinnamon streusel filling in a dark chocolate shell • Coconut Macaroon – Coconut macaroon center in the heart of rich dark chocolate • Berry Cheese Blintz – White chocolate filled with raspberry and strawberry mascarpone • Black & White Cookie – Sugar cookie with chocolate and vanilla icing wrapped in a white chocolate shell • Cinnamon Rugelach – Dark chocolate with cinnamon rugelach filling • Vanilla – Vanilla filling in a dark chocolate shell • Tahitian Caramel – Milk chocolate filled with caramel made from Tahitian vanilla • Sufganiyot – Raspberry-filled donut ganache wrapped in a milk chocolate shell • Chocolate Gelt—Dark chocolate with a hint of salt • Festival Orchard—Apple cinnamon ganache in a milk shell In addition to the boxed collections, a limited-edition, edible Advent Calendar will be introduced to count down the days until Christmas, featuring a variety of seasonal treats and confections. There will also be handcrafted nutcrackers available in milk, white and dark chocolate, chocolate bars in festive packing, party boxes and reimagined gift baskets. These specialty items will be available online and in Norman Love Confections salons beginning November 10. The limited-edition 2025 Holiday Collection is available in a variety of sizes, and the Hanukkah Collection comes in an 8-piece set complete with celebratory band. These collections are available to purchase online and at Norman Love Confections’ chocolate salons in Fort Myers, Naples, Estero, Sarasota, Delray Beach and Boca Raton. The Boca Raton salon is at 21200 St. Andrews Boulevard, Boca Raton, Florida 33433. The Delray salon is at 1911 South Federal Highway, Delray Beach, Florida 33483. Extended holiday hours, with all salons open on Sundays, will be in place from Tuesday, November 25th through Saturday, January 3rd, 2026. For detailed holiday hours, please visit: www.NormanLoveConfections.com About Norman Love Confections Founded in 2001, Norman Love Confections creates and distributes handcrafted artisanal chocolates from its corporate headquarters at: 11380 Lindbergh Boulevard, Fort Myers, Florida 33913. The award-winning Fort Myers-based chocolatier has been lauded more than a dozen times by a leading consumer ratings magazine, including recognition six times for producing the best ultra-premium chocolates in the nation. Forbes.com included Norman Love Confections BLACK line on its list of the nation’s top 10 truffles; The Huffington Post listed it among the six best U.S. destinations in its Chocolate Lover’s Travel Guide; and USA Today named Love as one of its top 10 entrepreneurs for 2014. Love was named the inaugural inductee of Dessert Professional Magazine’s Chocolatier Hall of Fame, partnered with local chefs to present a six-course meal at the James Beard House in New York and Norman Love Confections was ranked among the top 10 shops in the world for chocolate lovers by U.K. media outlet Daily Telegraph. Norman Love Confections has Chocolate Salons in Fort Myers, Estero, Naples, Sarasota, Delray Beach and Boca Raton. Norman Love Confections’ chocolates, gift baskets, sipping chocolate and specialty items also can be ordered online at: www.normanloveconfections.com . In addition, chocolates are available at independent retail locations throughout the U.S. For more information visit: www.normanloveconfections.com - Or call: (239) 561-7215. Previous Next

'Mom & Pops' Can Apply: Applicants May Be Eligible To Receive Up To $2,500 March 7, 2024 Share Small business owners in Miami-Dade's District 4 are invited to apply for Commissioner Micky Steinberg's Annual Mom and Pop Small Business Grant Program. Applicants may be eligible to receive up to $2,500, depending on the number of applicants, which can be used for purchasing equipment, supplies, inventory, commercial liability insurance, security systems, advertising, marketing, and making minor renovations. Applications will be accepted through March 15th, 2024, by 12:00 p.m. Business owners interested in applying for the 2024 District 4 Mom and Pop Small Business Grant Program must meet the following criteria: • Existed for at least two year(s) • Employ no more than seven employees • Currently not in default or non-compliance with any County Loan or Grant Program • Is not affiliated with a national chain and does not own more than two businesses • Does not engage in illegal activity at the stated business location Completed original applications can be hand delivered to: Commissioner Micky Steinberg, District 4 Office, 2124 Northeast 123rd Street, Suite 201 North Miami, Florida 33181. Or emailed to: District4momandpop@nanafl.org - only one completed application per business will be accepted. Non-Profit Agencies are not eligible for funding but Home-Based Businesses are welcome to apply. Businesses that received funding two years in a row must sit out one year before reapplying (If you received funding in years 2022 & 2023, you are not eligible to apply until year 2025). Applications may be typed or printed. Illegible, incomplete, or faxed applications will be disqualified. Guidelines for the Mom and Pop Small Business Grant Program require that each approved recipient attend a mandatory business training workshop to be scheduled at a later date. To see if your business is located within District 4 or for more information, contact Alexis Moseley at: (305) 787-5999. Or Neighbors And Neighbors Association (NANA) – Victoria Goss at: (305) 756-0605. Applications are available at: www.miamidade.gov/district04 About The Program The Miami-Dade County Mom And Pop Small Business Grant Program was created by Neighbors And Neighbors Association, Inc. in 1999 to provide financial and technical assistance to qualified small businesses that are approved for funding. This program has allowed small owned and operated businesses the opportunity to interact with the local government under favorable conditions, and this relationship will ultimately bridge the gap between the two entities. • The program provides financial assistance to further the economic viability of recipients. Funding can be used to purchase inventory/supplies, business equipment, marketing/advertising, building/business insurance, minor interior/exterior renovations, security systems (commercial property only), work vehicle (pick-up truck or cargo van must be registered in the business name) professional services, (CPA, business training, seminars, and events), or commercial property lease or mortgage only. • Technical assistance is made available at no charge, to small businesses to create a better working and business environment, promote economic development opportunities, educate owners about various county-funded programs and projects, form/foster better-working relationships among small business owners, retain and eventually create more jobs, offer the necessary training that small business owners so desperately need to become more efficient and competitive, etc. The program is offered in each of 13 Miami-Dade County Commission Districts, as a result, they recognize that the needs of each district are different and their goal is to address this diversity. To receive the correct guidelines to be considered for funding, you must apply in the county district where your business is located. To locate the district where your business is located, please call 311 or visit: https://www.miamidade.gov/global/government/commission/home.page under “Who is my Commissioner?” enter your business address and submit. Applications and start dates for each district may differ, therefore, please be sure to pick up the appropriate application. < Previous News Next News >

The Loss of Innocence: The Abduction Of Adam Walsh Changed Hollywood & The Country Forever May 24, 2023 Share On July 27, 2023 it will be 42 years since six-year-old Adam Walsh was kidnapped from inside a Sears department store at the Hollywood Mall, but the impact of his abduction and murder still resonates in South Florida and certainly with myself. I remember as a kid growing up in Hollywood, just like Adam I went to the Sears Department Store and played games on the same exact Atari store display he was at that day. I would shop with my family or ride my bike on the path alongside Orangebrook Golf Course to go play the latest Atari Game Console in the Sears TV Department with friends. I am a few years older than Adam was at the time, but that could have been me any of my friends or even myself. Going to that mall was a weekly occurrence growing up in Hollywood. Your parents would go to Sears for everything from school clothes, to Craftsman tools, or to get their car repaired at the Sears Auto Center outside the main mall. This year will be the 42nd Anniversary of his kidnapping, 15,341 days to be exact, but to me it seems like it wasn't so long ago. My parents at the time owned a business in Hollywood, a Carvel Ice Cream on Johnson Street. I can vividly remember the flyers posted around the city with Adam's face and my family posted them on the windows of their store. As the days turned into weeks, the search for Adam became more and more desperate. The flyers still hung around the city and in my family's ice cream store as a constant reminder that something was different. As a kid you looked at things differently, you would look to your family for how important a situation is, you could see in their faces, this was something that wasn't normal. They were nervous, a bit of innocence and small town trust was lost. On that fateful day, Adam had been with his mother, Reve, and his grandmother, when they went to the Sears Department Store at the Hollywood Mall to buy some lamps. Adam, who was a curious and adventurous child, wandered off to the toy department while his mother and grandmother were looking at the lamps. When they finished, they realized that Adam was missing, and they began frantically searching for him. The search continued for several hours, but there was no sign of Adam. The police were called, and an intensive search was launched, involving hundreds of volunteers and law enforcement officials. But despite their efforts, Adam was nowhere to be found. The Walsh family refused to give up hope, and they continued to do everything in their power to find their son. One of the most effective tools they had at their disposal was the distribution of flyers, which they used to keep Adam's face in the public eye and to enlist the help of the media and as many people as possible in their search. Two weeks later on August 10, a fisherman found Adam's severed head in a canal along Florida's Turnpike, over 100 miles from the Hollywood Mall. The rest of his body was never found, and his murder went unsolved for decades, leaving the Walsh family devastated and the nation along with Hollywood families in shock. Life for myself and every kid changed that day, parents in Hollywood and around the nation realized, this could have been any child, in any family. Despite the passage of time, the memory of Adam Walsh and his tragic death still resonates with many South Floridians, myself included. Adam's photo in his baseball uniform and red hat have become a symbol for missing children and a reminder of the evil that can happen to any of us in an instant. Although the Hollywood Mall Sears and most of the mall, where Adam was kidnapped may be long gone, Adam's face pictured with a red baseball cap lives on as a reminder of a different, more innocent time. Growing up in Hollywood at that time, Adam's abduction was a marker in time when life changed forever and there was no going back. There was always an uneasiness being outdoors without your family or going to a mall, there was no more going off on your own without a family member. As you get older you can see how this tragic event was the point that changed your childhood forever, but it also was the impetus for changes to protect children throughout that nation. In the aftermath of Adam's abduction and murder, his father John became a victim advocate and crusader for child safety. He lobbied for the creation of the Missing Children Act and founded the Adam Walsh Child Resource Center, which later became the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. John also became the host of the national TV show "America's Most Wanted," which profiled the cases of missing and wanted criminals, including those who had committed crimes against children. The show helped to bring many fugitives to justice and became a powerful force for public safety and awareness. In addition, the Adam Walsh Child Resource Center, now the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, continues to provide critical services and support to families and law enforcement agencies across the country. The organization's mission is to help find missing children, prevent child exploitation, and provide resources and support to victims and their families. Since being founded in 1984, The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Toll-Free Hotline: 1 (800) THE-LOST - 1 (800) 843-5678, has received more than 5 million calls. They’ve circulated billions of photos of missing children. They’ve assisted law enforcement in the recovery of more than 376,000 missing children thanks to constantly increasing and improving public awareness, training, laws, and technology. Adam's legacy has also inspired other initiatives and organizations aimed at keeping children safe. The Adam Walsh Act, which was signed into law in 2006, created a national sex offender registry and strengthened penalties for those who commit crimes against children. Over the years, there have been a number of theories about who might have killed the boy. One of them was Ottis Elwood Toole, a drifter and companion of serial killer Henry Lee Lucas. According to Toole's confession, he abducted Adam outside the Sears store and drove off with him. Toole, who died in prison in 1996, confessed to Adam’s murder in October 1983. Toole claimed he and Lucas were responsible for hundreds of murders. In the many years that followed, John always maintained hope that Adam’s killer would be found. Eventually John and wife Reve decided to reach out to former Miami Beach Homicide Detective Joe Matthews, who reopened the cold case. In 2006 Detective Matthews took on the case and re-examined the evidence, discovering previously overlooked or disregarded clues, including 98 photos taken by investigators of Otis Toole's Cadillac. Toole had confessed and then recanted his confession to Adam's murder. However, Hollywood Police detectives had been unable to verify Toole's confessions due to a series of errors made in the investigation, including losing crucial evidence. Detective Matthews' examination of the photos revealed a bloody image of a young face on the carpet behind the driver's seat of Toole's car, which he identified as Adam's. This evidence was crucial in finally identifying Toole as Adam's killer in 2008, and the Hollywood Police Chief at the time, Chad Wagner, apologized for the past mistakes made in the investigation. The tragic events of July 27th, 1981, have left an indelible mark on the nation. But the legacy of Adam Walsh has also inspired a powerful movement to protect and advocate for children's safety and well-being. As John Walsh once said, "I don't think you ever heal from something like this. But we've taken the tragedy and turned it into something positive. We're making a difference, and that's what Adam would have wanted." If you have any information regarding a missing or exploited child, please call: 1 (800) THE-LOST - 1 (800) 843-5678. Or visit: www.missingkids.org For more information about navigating child sexual abuse, you can find a resource for survivors and their loved ones at: https://www.cordiscosaile.com/navigating-child-sex-abuse/ < Previous News Next News >

Fogo de Chão Fort Lauderdale A Brazilian Epicurean Adventure By Merilee Kern, MBA Jul 16, 2025 Ensconced In The Vibrant Las Olas Boulevard Section Of Fort Lauderdale, Fogo de Chão Offers An Incomparable Dining Experience Exuding The Warmth Of Brazilian Hospitality. With Locations Around The Globe, This Particular South Florida Location Uniquely Captures The Essence Of The Brand While Infusing It With Local Flair. The Restaurant’s Signature Commitment To Value, Variety, And Customization Shines Through In Every Detail, Making It A Standout Among Fort Lauderdale’s Dining Options. At the heart of Fogo de Chão is its dedication to balancing tradition with innovation. For over 45 years, the restaurant has celebrated the rich heritage of Brazilian churrasco, while continuously evolving its menu to meet modern tastes and dietary preferences. This is evident in offerings like its Signature Churrasco Experience, where a rotating selection of high-quality meats, carved tableside by gaucho chefs, ensures a dynamic and satisfying culinary journey free from the anxiety of choosing just one dish. Guests are also invited to indulge in dishes like the Whole Branzino, a delicately grilled fish that highlights the versatility of the churrasco cooking style, and the indulgent Caviar Brioche, which bridges the gap between luxury and approachability. The restaurant’s famed “Market Table” complements the dining experience with its vibrant array of seasonal salads, exotic vegetables, and nutrient-rich dishes, catering to diverse dietary needs including vegetarian, gluten-free, and keto options. For a deeper dive into this restaurant’s formula for success, below is a conversation with Neimar Hensel, Area Manager at Fogo de Chão, who highlights why this Fort Lauderdale hotspot offers an exceptional epicurean adventure. MK: First, what makes the Fort Lauderdale location of Fogo de Chão unique compared to other locations throughout the U.S.? NH: The Fort Lauderdale location stands out with its expansive outdoor patio, offering a unique dining experience in the open air, with views of the waterfront. The venue combines the laid-back South Florida vibe with vibrant Brazilian culture. Our Fort Lauderdale location also features a butcher shop storefront where our gauchos, professionally trained chefs, expertly prepare premium cuts, and can offer you popular cuts like Ribeyes, NY Strip Steaks, and Filet Mignon, as well as more authentic Brazilian cuts including Picanha and Fraldinha to take home. At Fogo, we focus on the three most important aspects of dining out for our guests, which are value, variety and customization. We offer customizable menu offerings so everyone can find their culinary favorites at every daypart, including weekend brunch, All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Lunch, Dinner, and fresh, seasonal soup and salads at the Market Table which is suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more. These aspects truly set us apart from other steakhouses. MK: What sets the restaurant apart from other comparable restaurant options in Fort Lauderdale? NH: Dining out often comes with “menu anxiety” or “plate envy,” where people regret their order after seeing what someone else gets. At Fogo, this stress disappears with our Signature Churrasco Experience. Guests have endless opportunities to discover new culinary options and savor their favorites including a rotating mix of high-quality proteins cut and served tableside, signature sides, and customizable dishes, which means that they don’t have to pick just one. At Fogo, we offer customizable menu offerings for every daypart, including weekend brunch, All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Lunch, Dinner, and fresh, seasonal soup and salads at the Market Table which is suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more. These aspects truly set us apart from other steakhouses. Our Dry-Aged meat locker of premium cuts offers our guests a unique, elevated and distinct culinary experience. Dry-aged premium cuts are renowned for their intensified meat flavors and enhanced tenderness. The dry-aging process of 22-42 days enhances the natural flavors of the meat while breaking down the muscle fibers, resulting in a richer, nutty, and bolder beef taste and a tender texture. Fogo’s Dry-Aged Premium Cuts are designed to share and enhance your dining occasion from birthdays to anniversaries to group meetings, feeding 2-6 guests. MK: Brazilian hospitality is a cornerstone of Fogo de Chão’s philosophy. How is this reflected in the service provided at the Fort Lauderdale location? NH: From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with warmth and a sense of care that makes them feel right at home. The gaucho chefs, who bring the churrasco meats directly to the table, create an interactive and engaging experience, ensuring each guest receives the perfect meal tailored to their preferences. At Fogo, we pride ourselves on bringing Brazilian hospitality to the heart of every city. MK: Fogo de Chão has a rich history rooted in Brazilian churrasco. How does the restaurant balance tradition with innovation in its dining experience? NH: For the past 45 years, Fogo has provided wholesome, nutritional menu options for every dietary tribe. By staying consistent with our Brazilian roots, we are continuously evolving to provide offerings that align with guests' expectations, from quality to flavor. A perfect example of this is the introduction of blistered fresh fish to our menu with the Whole Branzino. The Whole Branzino can be added to any experience and is deboned and then grilled on the churrasco grill over an open flame which blisters the skin, giving the fish a crisp and decadent flavor. Many guests don’t realize that traditional churrasco is not exclusive to steak, but also includes fresh fish. A more viral example is our Caviar Brioche. Caviar is all over Social Media, with many guests sharing they are excited to try this indulgent offering for the first time. Our Caviar Brioche allows guests to try decadent items in the form of small bites, allowing us to provide guests an attainable and approachable value for indulgent offerings. MK: What are some of the most popular cuts of meat served at this location, and do you offer any exclusive menu items specific to Fort Lauderdale? NH: The most popular cut of meat is Fogo’s signature specialty Picanha (top sirloin) and Fraldinha (bottom sirloin). Both of which are lightly seasoned in-house with salt and cooked over an open flame, then carved tableside by our Gaucho chefs. Each cut is a favorite in Brazil and loved by our guests in Fort Lauderdale and nationwide. MK: Beyond the churrasco-style meats, what other menu highlights or dishes should guests not miss? NH: I recommend guests try the new Whole Branzino. The 2lbs. Fresh, mild white fish is blistered churrasco-style and served tableside with extra virgin olive oil, lemon, and parsley, offering a delicious enhancement to the Full Churrasco Experience. I also recommend guests try our dry-aged premium cuts that are dry-aged for a minimum of 42 days and are renowned for their intensified meat flavors and enhanced tenderness. The dry-aged Tomahawk Ribeye is the perfect enhancement to any meal to discover the tender, juicy, and robust flavors. MK: Can you expand a bit on your Market Table and its role in complementing the churrasco experience? NH: The Market Table plays a key role in complementing the churrasco experience by offering a variety of seasonal salads and soups, exotic vegetables, imported cheeses, smoked salmon, cured meats, and more. It features a wide selection of nutrient-dense, whole foods, including plant-based options, allowing guests to customize their meals based on their preferences. We continue to offer fresh ingredients and create limited time offerings such as the recently added Roasted Apple & Butternut Squash Salad, Seasonal Hummus, and Carrot Ginger Soup. This adds balance and variety to the rich, savory flavors of the churrasco experience, enhancing the overall discovery dining experience with vibrant, flavorful choices. Guests are welcome to visit the Market Table as many times as they’d like during their meal. MK: How does the restaurant cater to diners with dietary preferences or restrictions, such as vegetarians or gluten-free guests? NH: Unlike traditional steakhouses, Fogo offers a variety of dining options for every dietary tribe including keto, gluten-free, vegan, and more. We offer guests specialty dishes including Seared Tofu and Sesame Black Bean Pasta, Seafood Tower complete with Lobster Tails and snow crab legs, Cauliflower Steak, Fogo’s naturally gluten-free Market Table and more. MK: For first-time visitors, what tips or advice would you offer to ensure they get the most out of their dining experience? NH: For first-time guests, I always recommend they start their experience at the Market Table with seasonal salads and soups, exotic vegetables, imported cheeses, smoked salmon, cured meats, and more. Take your time to savor the flavors from the churrasco experience, and consider adding enhancements like the Whole Branzino or Wagyu Porterhouse, especially when dining with a large group as they’re perfect for sharing with the table to spark new discoveries of culinary favorites. And, no experience is complete without a Caipirinha cocktail, made with cachaça, lime, and sugar, which offers a refreshing and authentic Brazilian flavor. MK: What is your personal favorite item on the menu? NH: My personal favorite is the Fraldinha, which has a rich flavor and a salty bark due to our churrasco cooking style. I also enjoy the Picanha, the lamb chops, and the Porterhouse. MK: What is your personal favorite aspect of the dining experience at large? NH: My favorite aspect of the dining experience at Fogo is our variety of offerings. I consider myself to be a flexitarian, eating meat, fish, and vegan meals. The variety at Fogo allows me to accommodate my changing dietary preferences on a daily basis. I, along with our guests, are never limited to one option or one dietary tribe. MK: As Fort Lauderdale continues to grow as a culinary destination, how does Fogo de Chão aim to stay ahead of dining trends while maintaining its authenticity? NH: At Fogo, we offer customizable menu offerings for every daypart, including weekend brunch, All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Lunch, Dinner, and fresh, seasonal soup and salads at the Market Table which is suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more. These aspects truly set us apart from other steakhouses. We hold quarterly wine dinners and monthly bar events that allow guests to indulge in a tailored menu with signature offerings including wagyu, with curated wine pairings to sample some of Fogo’s best offerings, encouraging guests to come back and indulge in their culinary favorites they discovered. From the interactive service of the gaucho chefs to the thoughtfully curated menu offerings, every visit to Fogo de Chão on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale is designed to create a memorable epicurean experience. As Broward County continues to thrive as a culinary destination, Fogo de Chão remains a beacon of authenticity, offering a dining experience that seamlessly marries the best of tradition and modernity. Previous Next

Here’s The Scoop South Florida! - Sweet Melody Ice Cream Shop Is Known For Its Small-Batch Flavors And Nostalgic, Music-Inspired Spirit South Florida Sun Times Mar 26, 2026 Fort Lauderdale Is About To Get Even Sweeter! Sweet Melody Ice Cream, The Beloved South Florida Ice Cream Shop Known For Its Small-Batch Flavors And Nostalgic, Music-Inspired Spirit, Is Expanding Into The 954 With The Grand Opening Of Its Third Location At The Hive In Flagler Village. Officially Opening Its Doors On Wednesday, April 1st, 2026 The New 691 Square-Foot Shop – Inspired By The 1960’s With A Rec Room Vibe And Vinyl Spinning All Day – Will Bring Sweet Melody’s Signature Scoops, Playful Atmosphere And Community-Driven Charm To One Of Fort Lauderdale’s Most Vibrant Neighborhoods. Dreamt up by Founder/Chief Executive Optimist Mike Romeu, Sweet Melody started out as a love letter to his daughter, Melody, and flourished from a passion project to a homegrown success story. After losing his job in 2015, Mike – a glass-half-full kind of guy – saw a serendipitous opportunity to dust off his untouched $50 ice cream maker and create something amazing right out of his apartment. Within those four walls, the vision for Sweet Melody, named for his daughter and his passion for music, originated, and the brand officially launched in 2016. The original ventanita made its grand debut in Kendall in September 2019, followed by the opening of the second shop at The Citadel in August 2024. A decade later, Sweet Melody has grown into a thriving concept with 2026 marking the brand’s 10-year anniversary and expansion into four locations with the opening of four new outposts this year, starting with the Fort Lauderdale shop in April, quickly followed by the brand’s new flagship location opening on Flagler Street in Fontainebleau come May, and two more shops to be announced later this year. Today, Sweet Melody continues to craft its ice cream in small batches using thoughtfully sourced ingredients, offering a menu that features both beloved staples and creative concoctions with the brand’s 12 classic flavors alongside four rotating, seasonally-inspired flavors, giving sweet seekers something new to try every time. Among the signature scoops is the Kooki Monster – a fun take on cookies & cream, made with infused vanilla ice cream loaded with homemade chocolate chip cookies and classic chocolate sandwich cookies; Strawberry Fields Whenever – strawberry ice cream with swirls of housemade honey-strawberry jam; Abuela’s Flan – inspired by Michel’s grandmother’s signature dessert, it features the caramel notes and chewy texture of a classic flan and Cookie Buttah – cookie butter ice cream loaded with Biscoff Cookies as well as more classic flavors such as Vanilla Bean, Ecuadorian Chocolate, Pistachio and Bourbon Pecan. Available until the end of May 2026, the current seasonally-inspired flavors featured in Sweet Melody’s Spring Series include Banana Pudding – vanilla pudding ice cream with layers of banana brown sugar, brandy caramel and buttery bites of housemade Nilla wafers; Tres Leches – vanilla scented coconut ice cream with silky Italian meringue and Tres Leches cake chunks; Jon Dough – cookie dough ice cream with chunks of housemade brown butter cookie dough and swirls of milk fudge; and Revenge of the Twix – Twix flavored ice cream with housemade Twix and gooey caramel. Sweet Melody’s vibrant flavor lineup also features delicious vegan-friendly options including Midnight Chocolate Truffle and Strawberry Banana Sorbet. As if the grand debut of Sweet Melody Fort Lauderdale wasn’t already sweet enough, the brand is featuring a signature flavor, The Hive – buttery vanilla ice cream, chocolate flakes and honeycomb candy, exclusively at its Flagler Village shop, and is teaming up with iconic, local concepts – including Heritage, Wells Coffee, Cookie Head and LoveLee Bakeshop – throughout the month of April to dream up creative flavors that will be offered only at the Fort Lauderdale location. Sweet Melody Fort Lauderdale is located at 908 North Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 at The Hive in Flagler Village. Hours of operation: Monday to Thursday from 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.; Friday from 4:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.; Saturday from 2:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.; and Sunday from 2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. For more information, please visit: www.sweetmelodyicecream.com ; Telephone: (754) 332-2372. Follow on Instagram: @SweetMelodyIceCream. Previous Next

City Of Hollywood Launches Turtle-Friendly Lighting Recognition Program March 2, 2023 Share This week marks the beginning of the 2023 Sea Turtle Nesting Season, which takes place every year from March 1st through October 31st. During this time, the City Of Hollywood’s “Turtle Friendly Lighting Ordinance” is in effect, when the City’s Hatchlings are attracted to light. On undeveloped beaches, the ocean horizon is lighter than the land so new hatchlings head toward the water. In an urban beach environment, artificial light from buildings can disorient hatchlings and attract them away from the ocean. Turtle friendly lighting can minimize disorientation and make Hollywood Beach more hospitable to these endangered species. The Broward County Sea Turtle Conservation Program (BCSTCP) documented 3,650 nests on the County's 24-mile coastline (including the Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park) in 2022. That’s a record for our area, and Hollywood’s sandy beach plays an important role in that success. Our beach is the desired nesting habitat for three species of endangered sea turtles: leatherbacks, loggerheads and greens. It is vital that everyone does their part to ensure future successful nesting seasons on Hollywood Beach. Sea Turtle Friendly Lighting Lighting near the beach should be "sea turtle-friendly" and follow these three criteria established by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): Keep it low: Fixtures should be mounted as low as possible to achieve their purpose and their bulbs should produce the lowest lumens (light output) necessary for the task. In addition to low lumens, keep the fixture shielded, the bulb, lamp or glowing lens should be shielded from the beach and the interior lights should not be visible from the beach. If you live near the beach, close your curtains, shades and blinds after sunset. One item you may not be aware of is, wavelength, no we aren't talking about the length of the ocean waves here. They are talking about the output, the fixtures/bulbs must produce long wavelength light (560 nm or longer) without filters, gels or lenses. Amber and red LEDs are good examples of these types of light. Also keep in mind that even lights from cell phones can also disturb nesting and hatching sea turtles. If you visit the beach at night during nesting season, keep your cell phone safely stowed in your pocket or bag. Turtle Friendly Lighting Recognition Pilot Program The City Of Hollywood has launched a Turtle Friendly Lighting Recognition Pilot Program. The goal of the program is to increase awareness and compliance with the City’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance by way of recognition of those property owners who are certified compliant. Hollywood’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance (§108, O-2011-07) requires that exterior lights be mounted as low in elevation as possible, shielded so that the light source is not visible from the beach, directed down and away from the beach and have a low wattage amber or red bulb. To reduce or eliminate the visibility of interior light from the beach, tinted glass or film must be installed on north, east and south facing doors and windows on new developments. Existing buildings can install window and door tint, move light fixtures away from windows, close the blinds and curtains, and turn off all unnecessary lights. To receive recognition, a property must fully comply with the City’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance (§108, O-2011-07). The certification process can be found at: www.HollywoodFL.org/TurtleLighting Apply today to be recognized by clicking the online application at: www.HollywoodFL.org/TurtleLighting < Previous News Next News >

CityPlace Doral To Host Bunny Trail Easter Bash Event On March 14th South Florida Sun Times Mar 11, 2026 The Free Event Will Provide An Opportunity For The Whole Family To Enjoy A Day Of Egg-Cellent Activities At The Fountain Plaza, Including An Easter Egg Trail, Live Music, Arts And Crafts, Games And Activities, Free Digital Photos With The Easter Bunny, A K-Pop Performance And Story Time With Michelle Martinez-Salom, The Author Of “Where Are You, Butterfly? A Beautiful Journey.” Gitanillas Dance Studio Will Present A Youth Flamenco Performance. Hop on over to the Bunny Trail! Families will receive a special trail map highlighting all the egg-citing stops throughout CityPlace Doral. As guests visit each location to collect their Easter eggs, they’ll earn a stamp along the way. Once their map is fully stamped, they can hippity-hop back to the registration table to turn it in for a chance to win an Easter basket bursting with prizes and gift cards from CityPlace Doral retailers. It’s a hop-filled adventure with sweet surprises around every corner. The Oasis experience at CityPlace Doral’s Fountain Plaza features a relaxing, open-air atmosphere for friends and family to enjoy grab-and-go bites from CityPlace Doral’s restaurants and enjoy South Florida’s weather. The Oasis incorporates Adirondack chairs, tables, umbrellas and oversized games such as Chess, Cornhole, Connect Four and more. Martinez-Salom is a Miami-born performer, author, educator, and ACSM-certified Exercise Physiologist. She studied musical theater at PAVAC (now New World School of the Arts) and has appeared in local commercials and films. She is the author of “Where Are You, Butterfly? A Beautiful Journey,” a children’s book following a monarch butterfly’s migration. Visitors are encouraged to tag @CityPlaceDoral for a chance to be featured on the Center’s Social Media channels. When: Saturday, March 14th, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Where: CityPlace Doral 8300 Northwest 36th Street Doral, Florida 33166 Cost: Bunny Trail Easter Bash Event is free and open to the community. Parking at CityPlace Doral is available for an additional charge in the parking garage. Valet service is also available. How: For more information, please visit: https://cityplacedoral.com/events . About CityPlace Doral: CityPlace Doral is an attractive leisure destination offering a collection of memorable dining, shopping, wellness and entertainment experiences. Featuring 250,000 Square Feet of retail space, CityPlace Doral is a master-planned, mixed-use development nestled in the dynamic employment center of Doral in the heart of Miami-Dade County. CityPlace Doral combines the vision of world-renowned architects, designers and artists creating the next crown jewel of prosperous dining, entertainment and upscale shopping in one of South Florida’s growing cities. CityPlace Doral includes more than 40 dining, shopping and entertainment destinations for all palates and walks of life, and the property’s entertainment retail component is anchored by a roster of first-class tenants from all over the country. For more information, visit: www.cityplacedoral.com . Or call: (786) 693-1849. Join the conversation and follow CityPlace Doral on Instagram, Facebook and X at: @CityPlaceDoral. Previous Next