Rental Crisis By Joy Cooper Hallandale Beach Mayor February 24, 2022 Share Well after two years of fighting and getting through the worst of Covid we are now moving into what the CDC is calling an unwind. Covid though seems to be here to stay. As we continue to learn of a new variant the goal now is management of future outbreaks. Our City Hall and departments are opening to in person service. I do believe we will be seeing employees getting sick with the virus mainly because they either still have not been vaccinated or they will be directly exposed since young children are still not vaccinated. The problem now is this new normal has come with some big price tags. Gas of course has been on everyones radar. Filling your tanks can run upwards of 50 bucks depending on where you buy your gas. In South Florida our other big price tag is rent. Average rents for a 1000 square foot apt in the Ft Lauderdale area is now $2300 dollars. The range is $1200 to $2900 depending on location. In Hallandale Beach we are seeing the same trend. A little over a year ago we had seen a steady increase from $800 to $1,200 for a small apartment but now the same apartments are going for $1600. This is a real problem especially with our vulnerable seniors and those on fixed income. I have received so many desperate calls from residents simply not being able to put a roof over their heads. It is both frustrating and heart wrenching. During Covid there was at least some relief. Our city does not have is own Housing Division. While we provide affordable housing through first time homeowner opportunities through our CRA. Broward County controls all of the section 8 vouchers and rental assistance. Legally we only have a few tools in our toolbox for rent controls. When we approve developments in the city, we have inclusionary zoning. Over 15 years ago I pushed for these regulations. They provide that a percentage of the development must be affordable, or the developer must contribute an equivalent dollar amount to our First Time Buyer Program. That’s one item in our toolbox. So, what can we do as a city? One could argue that our rents have been somewhat on the low side at $800 dollars for a one bedroom in our city. So, owners that have been paying mortgages, property taxes, insurance and upkeep deserve a bit of relief. The question then becomes what about those absentee landlords that simply are raising rents and not doing a thing, some over $500 a month. For this problem we do have two tools to work with Code Enforcement and minimum housing standards. Last meeting, I made a motion to have staff to begin to collect the data on the location of section 8 rentals. With this data we can begin to evaluate the standards of each property. In addition, our city is going to establish a rental property registration. This way we can have an easy clear contact for each property. Many rentals are registered as a company. For example, ABC, LLC. Tracking down who is the responsible person to maintain the property is not clear cut. So often code sends notices and they are not responded to. The fines pile up and the property continues to not be maintained. The interesting part of code enforcement is properties that are non-home-stead, can be foreclosed on. While this is a last resort the possible loss of ownership truly puts some teeth in our ability to get compliance. While this process does not address the rise in rents, it will force the owners to make sure they are maintaining their property. Too often renters don’t want to report the property. They can, but it leaves them susceptible to retaliation from the owner, even further increases or worse evictions. Our state legislators are debating this issue. The biggest problem is the lack of funding and the huge waiting lists for housing assistance. There is a state housing trust fund called the Sadowski Trust but sadly it has been raided many times and is not being used for its main purpose. For years we as elected officials have been fighting against them using it for balancing the budget. Some may question government assistance all together, but these safety nets are so vital. This is not simply about housing it is about the workforce and schools. When we do not have workers, our economy suffers. When residents leave, our schools lose students and worse, funding. While we cannot cap rents, we do offer some services. If you live in Hallandale Beach and are having difficulty paying your rent and are in an emergency, you can reach out to our Human Services at the Hepburn Center 954-457-1460. The Broward County housing Authority can be reached at 954-739-1114 or visit their website at http://www.bchafl.org/ As always, feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns and ideas on how to make our City a great place to live, work and play! I am available by phone or text at: (954) 632-5700. E-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org Or visit my Facebook and web-site at: http://www.mayorjoycooper.com/ < Previous News Next News >

The New FPL EV Expressway: Drivers Can Take An Electrified Holiday Road Trip December 15, 2022 Share Imagine traveling for the holidays, spending nothing on gas and taking a clean energy road trip! As “the most wonderful time of the year” is approaching, many are getting into the festive spirit and looking to get to their seasonal destinations. Most will drive over the holidays, with an estimated 49 million people traveling by car, according to AAA. For electric vehicle drivers planning their itinerary in the Sunshine State, Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) has rolled out an interactive tool to help map out a holiday-themed journey that allows them to power up, using FPL’s EVolution public charging network, as they make special memories. The website helps you build your own road trip on FPL’s “EV Expressway” or choose a pre-planned itinerary with fun recommended seasonal activities. Drivers will be able to see which of FPL EVolution’s 1,000+ charging ports are situated closest to their points of interest, while discovering new destinations. Experts say solutions like FPL’s can help turn “range anxiety” into range confidence and encourage more travelers to opt for an EV. “This time of year has traditionally been an important time for drivers to map out holiday travel plans,” said Crystal Stiles, FPL’s Executive Director Of Development, Distributed Technologies and Mobility at Florida Power & Light Company. “With the FPL EV Expressway, you can reach your destinations and find convenient charging locations along the way.” FPL EVolution helps drivers choose to go electric by installing charging stations throughout the state. Drivers can find them located in hotspots like parks, zoos and shopping plazas. Around Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, you can find FPL EVolution charging stations at hotspots like: Gateway Park in Sunny Isles Beach, Biscayne Boulevard in Aventura, Oakland Park Boulevard and more! The most widely used location to charge-up has been the Turnpike Service Plaza in Pompano. To plan your own holiday trip, visit: www.evexpressway.com < Previous News Next News >

VIP Tickets Selling Out Fast For Shwekey - Akiva Miami Pesach Concert! April 6, 2023 Share Join Chabad of South Broward for Passover 2023’s unforgettable and incredible night of entertainment. Jewish music's most renowned performers, Akiva and Yaakov Shwekey, are coming together to take the stage in Pembroke Pines. These two artists will be performing together, and it promises to be a night of inspiration, celebration and an unforgettable experience. Get ready to sing and dance along to their hit songs and be swept away by their unique styles and performances. On Monday night, April 10th, 2023, Chol HaMoed Pesach, Chabad of South Broward invites you to TWO MEGA HAKHEL EVENTS AND CONCERTS IN ONE! The concert is planned to the highest standards, with world-class production creating an immersive and one-of-a-kind experience. The evening promises to be a night of joy, laughter and deep heartfelt emotions that cannot be denied. Akiva and Shwekey, VIP seats are quickly selling out, so it is highly recommended VIP seats are purchased TODAY! Major sponsors of this TWO IN ONE MEGA HAKHEL AND CONCERT are invited to join AKIVA AND SHWEKEY for a memorable MEET AND GREET! Akiva, an accomplished Israeli singer, and songwriter is no doubt a rising star on the "Religious Rock" front, with millions of youtube followers and an ever-growing crowd of loyal fans from a wide range of ages and backgrounds. Akiva first burst into our hearts in 2019 with huge hits such as "Al Ta'Azvi" and "Pshutim," followed by the national hit "Yesh Bach HaKol" and "Shleimim" - which was chosen as Song of the Year 2020. Akiva's concert experience is like recharging a battery to your soul – a music festival that incorporates joy and laughter alongside deep heartfelt emotions that cannot be denied. Akiva's unique style seamlessly blends religious rock and contemporary influences, and his concert experience is like recharging a battery to your soul. Yaakov Shwekey is a celebrated American-Israeli singer and performer, and is known for his powerful and dynamic performances that have captivated audiences worldwide. He is one of the most universally celebrated Jewish singers of his time, arriving on the scene as a solo artist in 2001 and captivating the hearts of multilingual audiences with numerous hits reaching number one on global billboard lists. Shwekey's unique style combines traditional Jewish melodies with contemporary influences, creating a sound that appeals to both traditional and modern music lovers with hits like "I'm Eshkachech," Vehi Sheamda" and "Aish" being requested on live radio shows and private events in record numbers alongside his "Musica" album which debuted at number three on The Billboard World Album chart. With hit songs such as "I'm Eshkachech," "Vehi Sheamda" and "Aish" reaching number one on global billboard lists, Yaakov's music has taken the Jewish music world by storm. His performances have been described as "heart-pulling" and "soul-stirring," leaving audiences in awe. Recognized for his passion and range, the Shwekey Sound has been described as "heart-pulling and soul-stirring." Known for powerful and dynamic performances, Yaakov Shwekey attracts crowds from every corner of Europe, North and South America, Israel and beyond. This two in one Hakhel event and concert in South Florida Cool Hamoed Pesach April 10th. VIP tickets are available at Chabad of South Broward. You and your family are entitled to the best seats in the house and VIP seats are selling out fast. Most tickets are available on: www.Ticketmaster.com Some tickets, for VIP’s, will exclusively be available via Chabad of South Broward. The two in one Mega HAKHEL & CONCERT, will take place at the Charles F. Dodge Theater in Pembroke Pines, 601 City Center Way, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33025. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., Concert begins at 8:00 p.m. Don't miss this opportunity to see two of Jewish music's most renowned performers for a special night of music. To purchase VIP tickets and/or to become a major sponsor for this Mega Hakhel Event, please call: (954) 458-1877. E-mail: chabadsboffice@gmail.com Or log on to: www.chabadsouthbroward.com/concert Or Pesach Concert at: www.ChabadSouthBroward.com < Previous News Next News >

Kids Get Free Meals This Summer: BreakSpot & 17th Annual Children's Book Fest June 9, 2022 Share Children who depend on school meals during the year often miss out on these wholesome meals during the summer months. But here’s how we can prevent that. Summer BreakSpot offers balanced breakfasts, lunches, snacks or dinners at no cost for kids 18 and under, Monday, June 13th, 2022 - Friday, August 12th, 2022. Meals are served on site, at no cost, at places like parks, libraries, schools and churches. After schools close for the summer, kids and teens can still get free meals through this service. No application is necessary, just show up to one of the thousands of meal sites across Florida. Here are two locations close by for you to visit: • Hallandale Beach Branch Library 300 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009 • South Regional/Broward College Library 7300 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33024 If you’re not familiar with Summer BreakSpot and have additional questions, contact their Office At: InfoFNW@FDACS.gov . Or by Phone At: 1 (800) 504-6609. You can also find a location by texting the word “Food” or “Comida” to 304-304. All sites serve nutritionally balanced meals that meet USDA Guidelines. Who funds the Summer BreakSpot? The Summer BreakSpot Program, also known as the Summer Food Service Program, is federally funded under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and in Florida, administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Sites are locally operated by Non-Profit Organizations (sponsors) that provide the meals and receive a reimbursement from the USDA. 17th Annual Children's BookFest Spend the summer winning prizes for reading, learning and trying new things. In addition to free, amazing events, there will be giveaways. Readers of all ages can register for challenges making them eligible for chances to win great prizes from Wendy’s, Museum of Discovery and Science, Miami Children’s Museum, Water Taxi, Butterfly World, Everglades Holiday Park, Miami Heat, Florida Panthers, Shake Shack, Zoo Miami, Bluefoot Pirate Adventures and many other prizes. How it works: • Create a Broward County Library Beanstack Account At: https://browardlibrary.beanstack.com/reader365 • Log the books you've read on Beanstack's Web-Site or in the Beanstack Tracker App (Apple or Android) • Read, write reviews and complete activities anytime between Wednesday, June 1st, 2022 and Saturday, August 13th, 2022 to earn chances to win prizes! If your reader is a Broward County Public Schools student, be sure to link their School and Public Library Accounts so their reading gets logged in both places all summer. If you need assistance with your Beanstack Account, please E-mail Them At: BCLSummer@broward.org . < Previous News Next News >

Wars Are the Enemy of Freedom By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead March 2, 2022 Share It’s time for the U.S. government to stop policing the globe. “No nation could preserve its freedom in the midst of continual warfare.” — James Madison War is the enemy of freedom. As long as America’s politicians continue to involve us in wars that bankrupt the nation, jeopardize our servicemen and women, increase the chances of terrorism and blowback domestically, and push the nation that much closer to eventual collapse, “we the people” will find ourselves in a perpetual state of tyranny. It’s time for the U.S. Government to stop policing the globe. This latest crisis — America’s part in the showdown between Russia and the Ukraine — has conveniently followed on the heels of a long line of other crises, manufactured or otherwise, which have occurred like clockwork in order to keep Americans distracted, deluded, amused, and insulated from the government’s steady encroachments on our freedoms. And so it continues in its Orwellian fashion. Two years after COVID-19 shifted the world into a state of global authoritarianism, just as the people’s tolerance for heavy-handed mandates seems to have finally worn thin, we are being prepped for the next distraction and the next drain on our economy. Yet policing the globe and waging endless wars abroad isn’t making America — or the rest of the world — any safer, it’s certainly not making America great again, and it’s undeniably digging the U.S. deeper into debt. Indeed, even if we were to put an end to all of the government’s military meddling and bring all of the troops home today, it would take decades to pay down the price of these wars and get the government’s creditors off our backs. War has become a huge money - making venture, and the U.S. government, with its vast military empire, is one of its best buyers and sellers. What most Americans — brainwashed into believing that patriotism means supporting the war machine — fail to recognize is that these ongoing wars have little to do with keeping the country safe and everything to do with propping up a military industrial complex that continues to dominate, dictate and shape almost every aspect of our lives. Consider: We are a military culture engaged in continuous warfare. We have been a nation at war for most of our existence. We are a nation that makes a living from killing through defense contracts, weapons manufacturing and endless wars. We are also being fed a steady diet of violence through our entertainment, news and politics. All of the military equipment featured in blockbuster movies is provided — at taxpayer expense — in exchange for carefully placed promotional spots. Even reality TV shows have gotten in on the gig, with the Pentagon’s entertainment office helping to sell war to the American public. It’s estimated that U.S. military intelligence agencies (including the NSA) have influenced over 1,800 movies and TV shows. And then there are the growing number of video games, a number of which are engineered by or created for the military, which have accustomed players to interactive war play through military simulations and first-person shooter scenarios. This is how you acclimate a population to war. This is how you cultivate loyalty to a war machine. This is how, to borrow from the subtitle to the 1964 film Dr. Strangelove, you teach a nation to “stop worrying and love the bomb.” The media, eager to score higher ratings, has been equally complicit in making (real) war more palatable to the public by packaging it as TV friendly. This is how you sell war to a populace that may have grown weary of endless wars: sanitize the war coverage of anything graphic or discomfiting (present a clean war), gloss over the actual numbers of soldiers and civilians killed (human cost), cast the business of killing humans in a more abstract, palatable fashion (such as a hunt), demonize one’s opponents, and make the weapons of war a source of wonder and delight. Not satisfied with peddling its war propaganda through Hollywood, reality TV shows and embedded journalists whose reports came across as glorified promotional ads for the military, the Pentagon has also turned to sports to further advance its agenda, “tying the symbols of sports with the symbols of war.” The military has been firmly entrenched in the nation’s sports spectacles ever since, having co-opted football, basketball, even NASCAR. This is how you sustain the nation’s appetite for war. No wonder the United States is the number one consumer, exporter and perpetrator of violence and violent weapons in the world. Seriously, America spends more money on war than the combined military budgets of China, Russia, the United Kingdom, Japan, France, Saudi Arabia, India, Germany, Italy and Brazil. America polices the globe, with 800 military bases and troops stationed in 160 countries. Moreover, the war hawks have turned the American homeland into a quasi-battlefield with military gear, weapons and tactics. In turn, domestic police forces have become roving extensions of the military—a standing army. We are dealing with a sophisticated, far-reaching war machine that has woven itself into the very fabric of this nation. Clearly, our national priorities are in desperate need of an overhaul. Eventually, all military empires fall and fail by spreading themselves too thin and spending themselves to death. It happened in Rome: at the height of its power, even the mighty Roman Empire could not stare down a collapsing economy and a burgeoning military. Prolonged periods of war and false economic prosperity largely led to its demise. It’s happening again. The American Empire — with its endless wars waged by U.S. military service people who have been reduced to little more than guns for hire: outsourced, stretched too thin, and deployed to far-flung places to police the globe—is approaching a breaking point. The government is destabilizing the economy, destroying the national infrastructure through neglect and a lack of resources, and turning taxpayer dollars into blood money with its endless wars, drone strikes and mounting death tolls. This is exactly the scenario President Dwight D. Eisenhower warned against when he cautioned the citizenry not to let the profit-driven war machine endanger our liberties or democratic processes. What we have is a confluence of factors and influences that go beyond mere comparisons to Rome. It is a union of Orwell’s 1984 with its shadowy, totalitarian government—i.e., fascism, the union of government and corporate powers—and a total surveillance state with a military empire extended throughout the world. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, this is how tyranny rises and freedom falls. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an attorney and author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of constitutional law, human rights and popular culture. John Whitehead's commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org . Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org . < Previous News Next News >

Sea & Smiles Pediatric Dentistry: A Dental Office Your Child Will Want To Visit By Erika Cartwright December 12, 2022 Share Nothing is more important to a parent than the health and well-being of their child. Small dental issues can turn into big issues, even serious infections quickly if not caught early on. As parents and caregivers, we want them to feel safe and happy at the dentist’s office while avoiding painful issues. Dental visits can be frightening for children. But what if there was a dental provider that made it a fun and enjoyable experience for your child? Sea & Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is just the place to make you and your child feel at ease and understood, where providers speak English, Spanish and Portuguese. When it comes to life long dental health, prevention is key. It is never too early to think about your child's dental health. Afterall, all babies have 20 primary teeth present in their jaws at birth. Sea & Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is located at 411 North Federal Highway, Suite#: 101, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. The office opened in September 2022 with a mission to provide a fun and positive experience for your child, while building a healthy foundation for your child’s oral health. Sea & Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is committed to providing compassionate, personalized and specialized care to fit your child’s individual needs. With experienced providers to offer exceptional patient care, Dr. Ana Gonzalez, DDS, MS and Dr. Laura Echeverria, DDS. As well as attenuative and caring staff to help your child feel at ease, you can rest assured your child is in good hands. Dr. Ana Gonzalez, DDS, MS graduated from dental school in Brazil and continued her education by completing two years of Advanced General Dentistry Residency at NYU Lutheran Dental Medicine. She then attended Nova Southeastern University for specialty training and obtained a Masters in Pediatric Dentistry where she served as a chief resident during her last year of residency. She was inducted in The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, due to her outstanding performance. Fulfilling her lifelong dream of working with children, Dr. Gonzalez received extensive training in various aspects of Pediatric Dentistry, including: dental emergencies, preventive treatment, hospital dentistry, oral conscious sedation, child growth and development and treatment of special needs children at the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Broward General Health Center. She can treat in the office, as well as in a hospital setting. She is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Florida Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Florida Dental Association. As a mother, she understands the importance of passion and caring when it comes to your child’s well-being. Dr. Laura Echeverria, DDS is a Pediatric Dental Specialist. She studied Advanced Education in General Dentistry at NYC Lutheran Medical Center for two years, followed by the University of Puerto Rico, School of Dental Medicine where she completed her specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry. She focused her training on providing comprehensive dental care for children, including those with special healthcare needs. She is a member of the International Association of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association. Being a mother herself, Dr. Echeverria is committed to providing quality and personalized dental care in a comfortable and fun environment. She strives to create a foundation for a lifetime of confident, happy and healthy smiles. With their combined years of experience, in a state-of-the-art facility, they have created a fun environment for children from infancy through adolescence to feel comfortable and to create happy memories of their dental visits. Many services are offered at Sea & Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. Services include: Bridges, Crowns, Cleanings, Digital X-Rays, Extractions, Fluoride Treatments, Infant Dentistry, Pit and Fissure Sealants, Mouthguards, Nitrous Oxide, Pulp Therapy, Silver Diamine Fluoride and Space Maintainers. It is never too early to begin good oral habits with your child. It is recommended to schedule your child’s first dental appointment by age 1, or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in. Early detection is key to preventing serious problems later. Teeth can look and feel healthy; however, this can be misleading. There are many small issues that are invisible to the naked eye and can only become visible when they have progressed into bigger, more serious problems. Early detection of dental caries at stage 1, which are small white spots on teeth, can save your child a lot of pain later. If not detected in the beginning stage, the white spots will become dark spots, stage 2 which is enamel decay. This will turn into stage 3, dentin decay, which reaches deeper into the dentin. This if untreated progresses to stage 4, pulp infection, which is decay into the pulp. Stage 5 of dental caries will cause pain, abscess distress, which is when the infection moves beyond the tooth into the surrounding gums and bones. Early detection is key to preventing serious dental issues and pain later. Checkups are recommended every 6 months, to ensure good dental health. Sea & Smiles Pediatric Dentistry can help with preventive maintenance, such as sealants. Minimally invasive dentistry as well as sedation dentistry are also offered at their new, up to date office. Among other services provided at the office are restorative dentistry, tooth extractions, teeth whitening, emergency care and care for special needs patients. With compassionate, dedicated, knowledgeable providers and staff, Sea & Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is sure to make your child’s visit memorable. Most insurances are accepted along with an option for Care Credit, to make payments easy and affordable regardless of a family’s financial situation. Teeth are unique, just like your child’s needs. With flexible appointments, it is easy to find the care they deserve. Complimentary visits for children 2 years old. and under. Office hours are Monday & Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Tuesday & Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call: (904) 233-1494. For helpful advice offered on their dental blog, visit: www.Seasmilespd.com < Previous News Next News >

How Can You Resist This Fellow’s Smile? January 27, 2022 Share Meet Fergus (ID 641076) a two-year old fellow who weighs just 45 pounds and wants to find a family to love. Fergus enjoys going for walks, likes to be pet and will be a wonderful addition to a dog loving family. He is just one of many great dogs looking for a forever home this week. Shy, sweet Mikkie (ID 650352) needs a patient owner who will give him time to adjust to a new home. Sadly, he was given up because his owner became homeless and could no longer take care of him. Mikkie is 7 years old, loves a scratching post, and likes toys that look like mice. He may want to sleep in bed with you and will snuggle and burrow under blankets. Sometimes he will even carry a toy around. Oh, and he likes spinach, arugula, and lettuce. Maybe you can grow him some catnip as a real treat. Choosing a Dog? If you are thinking of adding a loving and loyal canine companion to your family, you will want to consider many factors in selecting the type of animal which best suits your lifestyle and fits your needs. Choosing a Cat? Cats make wonderful pets. Because they’re less demanding, they can easily adjust to a variety of lifestyles and living spaces. Every cat is a true individual though, so it’s important to take the time to choose a four-footed friend who’s right for you. When you adopt from the Humane Society of Broward County all pets are spayed or neutered before going home. In addition, they receive preliminary vaccinations, a microchip, heart-worm test for dogs over seven months, feline leukemia test for cats, a limited 14-day health care plan courtesy of VCA Animal Hospitals, and a bag of Purina ONE pet food while supplies last. For more information call the shelter today at 954-989-3977 ext 6. The HSBC is located at 2070 Griffin Road, a block west of I-95 and opens daily at 11:00 a.m. To see who needs a home visit www.humanebroward.com The Humane Society of Broward County is a private non-profit organization made possible by generous donations from animal enthusiasts like you. The shelter is not affiliated with any other animal welfare organization with a similar name and receives no funding from them or the state. If you would like to meet a pet, please fill out a pre-adoption application on the website www.humanebroward.com then stop by, the shelter is located at 2070 Griffin Road, a block west of I95 and opens daily at 11 AM. If you can’t adopt, but want to help the animals, join us for the 2022 VCA Walk for the Animals on March 5. Learn more at www.walk4theanimals.com For more details call the Humane Society of Broward County at 954-989-3977 ext. 6. < Previous News Next News >

A Night Of Laughter And Music: Robert Klein's Comic Genius Graces Aventura July 19, 2024 Share For more than four decades, Robert Klein has been a beacon of comedic brilliance, captivating audiences with his sharp wit, musical prowess, and theatrical flair. This January, the City of Aventura proudly presents an evening with Klein at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, promising a memorable showcase of his multifaceted talents. Klein's name is synonymous with the evolution of modern stand-up comedy. As a trailblazer in the genre, Klein's influence is profound, having inspired comedy giants like Jay Leno and Jerry Seinfeld. His unique ability to blend humor with music and storytelling has set him apart in the entertainment world. His career is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal. In the 1970's, he released a series of influential comedy albums that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Albums like "Child of the Fifties" and "Mind Over Matter" not only showcased his comedic genius but also earned him Grammy nominations for "Best Comedy Album of the Year." Klein's talents extend beyond the realm of comedy albums. His performance in the 1979 Broadway musical "They're Playing Our Song" earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical, highlighting his theatrical chops. His talents have led him to be a fixture on television talk shows, with over 100 appearances on iconic programs like "The Tonight Show" and "The Late Show." His quick wit and engaging personality have made him a beloved guest, bringing humor to late-night audiences for decades. Klein's contributions to comedy have not gone unnoticed. In addition to his Grammy nominations, he has received two Emmy Award nominations for his HBO comedy specials, solidifying his status as a master of the craft. Aventura Welcomes Klein On January 9th, 2025, at 8:00 p.m., Robert Klein will take the stage at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center for a night of laughter. This highly anticipated event will feature a blend of Klein's classic comedy routines. Attendees can expect an evening filled with laughter, nostalgia, and the unparalleled entertainment that Klein is known for. Klein's performance Thursday, January 9th, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. in Aventura is more than just a comedy show; it's a celebration of his storied career and the joy he has brought to countless fans over the years. For those familiar with his work, the evening promises a delightful trip down memory lane. For newcomers, it offers a chance to experience the charm and talent of a true comedy legend. This is a must-see event for anyone who appreciates the art of comedy and the legacy of one of its most influential figures. Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. You can purchase tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. Parking FREE parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. For more information, visit: www.aventuracenter.org < Previous News Next News >

Trick Or Treat - Where To Celebrate Halloween As An Adult In SoFlo Fri Oct 18 2024 18:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Perfect Score - City of Hollywood Earns a Score of 100 in 2024 LGBTQ+ Municipal Equality Index Wed Dec 25 2024 17:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Stand For Something: 20th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Inspirational Celebration January 11, 2024 Share The legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. transcends time, resonating through the hearts and minds of people across the globe. Each year, the YMCA of South Florida pays homage to this iconic leader through the Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Inspirational Celebration. Marking its 20th Anniversary, this celebration stands as a beacon of unity, service, and unwavering commitment to the principles Dr. King championed. The commemoration kicks off with a symbolic breakfast and luncheon on January 12th, 2023, held at First Baptist Fort Lauderdale in Broward County and Jungle Island in Miami-Dade County, respectively. These events serve as the cornerstone for a weekend of activities designed to honor Dr. King’s enduring impact on society. The First Baptist Fort Lauderdale is located at: 301 East Broward Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 and a luncheon in Miami-Dade County at 11:45 a.m. at Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, Florida 33132. The celebration isn’t merely a series of gatherings; it’s a testament to the power of collective action and community engagement. It serves as a reminder that the spirit of Dr. King lives on in the actions of individuals who strive for positive change. Drawing over 1,000 leaders from the business and civic communities, the Breakfast and Luncheon aren't just about commemoration; they actively support the YMCA of South Florida’s "I Have A Dream" Youth Scholarship Fund. This fund enables the Y to offer various youth programs, fostering educational opportunities, employment avenues, and avenues for personal growth among youngsters. The event boasts an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, individuals whose lives mirror the values and ethos of Dr. King. From Donzaleigh Abernathy, daughter of pivotal Civil Rights Movement figures, to Ndaba Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela, the speakers bring firsthand experiences and a deep connection to the legacy of social justice. A notable highlight of the celebration is the recognition bestowed upon exceptional individuals who embody Dr. King’s principles. The Dave W. Cash Youth Leadership Award is a prestigious acknowledgment bestowed upon students from Broward and Miami-Dade Counties who champion social change. Their dedication to advocating for a better community earns them a $2,000 Scholarship to support their educational journey. Moreover, the Spirit of Community Award recognizes community advocates whose unwavering commitment to social activism, advocacy, nonviolence, civic engagement, and diversity mirrors Dr. King's ideals. These individuals stand as living testaments to the power of activism and community involvement. Behind this commemoration stand stalwart supporters – JM Family Enterprises, Inc. and Delta Air Lines – serving as presenters of the Breakfast and Luncheon, respectively. Their unwavering commitment to this cause speaks volumes about the event’s significance and impact. The celebration isn’t confined to the elites; it's an inclusive event open to anyone who wishes to partake in honoring Dr. King's legacy. Tickets, available for individuals or tables, serve as a gateway for anyone passionate about contributing to the cause. In essence, the 20th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Inspirational Celebration isn't merely an event; it’s a testament to the enduring power of unity, service, and advocacy. It encapsulates the spirit of Dr. King's dream, reminding us that as individuals, as communities, we must stand for something – for justice, equality, and a better tomorrow. For those eager to be part of this impactful celebration, tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available through the YMCA of South Florida's website. This isn’t just an invitation; it's an opportunity to be part of a legacy that continues to inspire change and unity, just as Dr. King envisioned. The celebration isn’t just about remembering Dr. King; it's about embodying his teachings, fostering unity, and ensuring his legacy thrives for generations to come. The 20th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Inspirational Celebration beckons all who believe in standing for something greater than themselves. Tickets are $175 per person or $2,500 per table. For additional information on the Y’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Inspirational Celebration events, including tickets and sponsorships, visit: www.ymcasouthflorida.org/standforsomething < Previous News Next News >

Florida In Fall - The Best Places For Camping October 21, 2021 Share Everglades National Park, Miami credit Matthew Dillon via Flickr The Sunshine State has always been a beloved beach vacation destination for Americans, but many people seem to forget that there’s more to Florida than theme parks and beaches! Camping is a huge travel trend right now with first-time campers at an all-time high according to the North American Camping Report. Florida’s combination of sunny weather and natural beauty make it the perfect destination for your camping trip this fall! Holidu, the search engine for vacation rentals, decided to find out which places in Florida are the best for camping during this season. We evaluated 200+ Florida towns with a population above 20,000 using the average monthly searches on Google for these towns with the terms ‘camping in’ and ‘campgrounds’ and 2) the average amount of sun hours during fall in those cities. If you want to get away this fall, why not visit one of these top-rated areas for camping in Florida? These camping hotspots were found using the Google search volume and the historical weather data for each town and the data has highlighted that: • Coastal camping reigns supreme: all cities in the top 10 are located on the coast • Florida’s west coast is the most popular with campers • Tampa Bay Area is the best place for camping with 4 cities in the top 10 Top 10 best areas for camping in Florida 1. Top Rated: Key West | Camping score: 10 Key West takes the cake in this ranking with a whopping 8,900 searches per month for camping. That’s not too surprising given the fact that the Florida Keys are not only one of the most beloved destinations in the country, they are also an area that holds immense natural beauty and is the perfect destination for a camping getaway. From the mangrove forests to the Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West offers plenty of ways to immerse yourself in nature. Thanks to the 11.5 sun hours per day, even in fall, you won’t need to give up all of your favorite water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving. Top 3 things campers can’t miss: 1. Explore the mangrove forests by kayak 2. Discover the coral reefs while snorkeling 3. Visit the Butterfly and Nature Conservatory 2. Well-deserved second place: Clearwater | Camping score: 9.67 Coming in second place, the next camping hotspot is Clearwater. Clearwater is located on the same peninsula as St. Petersburg with the Gulf of Mexico to the west and Old Tampa Bay to the east. This camping destination is a prime camping spot for any nature lover. Clearwater is home to several nature parks and reserves, such as the Moccasin Lake Nature Park or the Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Preserve, a great place to start your tour of Tampa Bay, whether you decide to go out on the water or hike along the shore. Bird watchers and fishers will also love Clearwater for the diverse wildlife you can observe in the area. Top 3 things campers can’t miss: 1. Discover Tampa Bay by kayak or boat 2. Get to know Florida’s marine life at the Sand Key Park 3. See birds of prey up close at the Moccasin Lake Nature Park 3. Close third: Naples | Camping score: 9.52 Beautiful Naples to the south takes third place! This town has the most sun hours of every place in the ranking, coming in at almost a full 12 hours of sun per day during the fall. Combine this with its proximity to several big natural parks like the Everglades and it’s no wonder why Naples is the third most popular camping spot. Discover the unique ecosystem of Florida during your camping trip: manatees, dolphins and several indigenous bird species are waiting for you! The parks around Naples also offer many trails for hiking, biking and even for BMX-ing and off-road driving for all different ages and skill levels. Top 3 things campers can’t miss: 1. Get up close and personal with manatees 2. Visit the magical Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary 3. Explore the mangrove forests of Collier-Seminole State Park 4. Surprising fourth: Miami | Camping score: 9.44 It might seem surprising to see a big city such as Miami in fourth place in this ranking, but the truth is that Miami is one of the best places for camping in the Sunshine State. You only have to drive a couple of miles to the south and you’re in the middle of the Everglades! Other notable parks in the area are the East Coast Buffer Preserve, the Biscayne National Park and the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area. Take advantage of Miami’s 11.5 sun hours per day in fall to explore its beautiful parks. Whether you love hiking, biking, horse riding or kayaking, the parks around Miami have awesome trails for you to explore! Top 3 things campers can’t miss: 1. Discover the Everglades by airboat 2. Go hummingbird spotting at the Castellow Hammock Preserve 3. Explore the reef at the Biscayne National Park 5. Tampa | Camping score: 9.44 The third most populated city of Florida, Tampa, comes in fifth place for our list of camping hotspots. While Tampa, just like Miami, might not be a place you’d associate with camping, there are plenty of campgrounds and recreational areas in the outskirts of the city. The parks in and around Tampa, like the Rocky Creek Trails Nature Preserve or the Morris Bridge Road Preserve, have trails for all levels, not just for hiking and biking, but also for off-roading, horse riding and more! Tampa is also a prime spot for canoeing and kayaking, with plenty of waterways and rivers for you to explore. Top 3 things campers can’t miss: 1. Conquer the class II rapids at the Hillsborough River State Park 2. Visit Morris Bridge Road Preserve for off-road biking and birdwatching 3. Explore Tampa Bay’s waterways by kayak Over 200 Florida towns and cities with more than 20,000 inhabitants were considered for this study. The starting point of the ranking was the average number of monthly searches on Google for the terms "camping in [town]" and "campgrounds [town]." After gathering that data, the average amount of sun hours in the fall months (September-November) was calculated using historical weather data from World Weather Online. These two data points were normalized (adjusted to a common scale) in order to determine which destinations were the best places for camping. In case of a tie, the search volume of the respective destinations decided which town was ranked higher. About Holidu Holidu’s mission is to finally make the search and booking of vacation rentals easy. Its search engine for vacation rentals allows travelers to book the ideal accommodation for the lowest prices. The company also helps vacation rental owners multiply their bookings with less work through its software and service solution under the Bookiply Brand. Brothers Johannes and Michael Siebers founded Holidu in 2014. The high-growth startup is headquartered in Munich and has local offices in the most attractive travel destinations in Europe and the US. For more information on Holidu, visit: https://www.holidu.com For more information on Bookiply, visit: https://www.bookiply.com < Previous News Next News >