Hallandale Beach Parking Fees: Answers To Questions You May Have About The Program www.hallandalebeachfl.gov August 26, 2021 Share Based on conservative estimates, the expansion of the City Of Hallandale Beach's Parking Program, would result in approximately $1.4 Million, in new revenue As the City of Hallandale Beach charts a course for a financially responsible future, it must explore options to find new revenue, to pay for the increasing costs, of Public Services. For years, Hallandale Beach has been missing out on, significant revenues by not charging fair market rates, for in-demand parking spaces. Based on conservative estimates, the expansion of the City Of Hallandale Beach’s Parking Program would result in approximately $1.4 Million in new revenue. This revenue, can be used to replace our aging fleet of Police Vehicles, allow the City to keep parks open longer, expedite permitting processes and to increase the efforts of Code Compliance. Further, Parking Enforcement, has a public safety component, as it provides an authoritative presence, a marked vehicle with lights, uniformed parking specialists, discouraging criminal activity, removes dumped and illegally parked vehicles, from our neighborhoods. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions: Why Do I Have To Pay For On-Street Parking? Parking takes up some of the most valuable land in the City Of Hallandale Beach and is the single biggest land use, in our City. Free parking in the City has only been free to the person parking in the space, not to the City. That free space you are used to using, costs money. Parking Industry Experts, rely on the International Parking Institute for research and that research, indicates that each space costs at least $400 annually, to maintain them. The cost of one person’s free parking, which includes the cost of the land, pavement, street cleaning and other related services, is actually subsidized, by the rest of the City's taxpayers. How Will The Program Be Implemented? Upon approval of the ordinance changes by the City of Hallandale Beach's Commission, the City would begin a Public Education Campaign, to inform residents and visitors of the new rates and zones. Meters and the Pay-By-Phone App, would be updated, to reflect the new rates and information. As the City adjusts to this new parking policy and fees, there is expected to be a grace period, where warnings will be issued, instead of violations. When the grace period expires, the City’s Parking Enforcement Team, will implement full enforcement of the City’s Updated Parking Plan, as approved, by the City Commission. Does The Monthly Parking Pass Cover Overnight Parking & Will The Beach Parking Lots Allow 24 Hour Parking? Yes, The Monthly Pass, covers parking within the Designated 24 Hours A Day/7 Days A Week Zone. Under The New Parking Program, due to low usage and limited parking, The Beach Parking Pass Program, will be eliminated. The Current Beach Parking Passes will be honored, until they expire. Registered Residents, will enjoy the Discounted Premium Parking Resident Rates, at the beach, for $2.50 an hour and Non-Residents, will pay the Premium Rate of $4 an hour. Currently, overnight parking at the beach, is not part of The New Proposed Parking Program. What Is Non-Resident Parking? The Proposed Parking Program recommends that Registered Residents, receive a Discounted Resident Rate on Parking Fees on the Pay-By-Phone App. Non-residents will pay the Regular, Non-Discounted Rates. Below, are the Rates: • Standard Parking Rates For Residents: $1.00 per hour. • Standard Parking Rates For Non-Residents & Visitors: $2.00 per hour. • Premium Parking Rates For Residents: $2.50 per hour. • Premium Parking Rates For Non-Residents & Visitors: $4.00 per hour. Will There Be Parking Meters? No, The Proposed Parking Program, does not include Physical Parking Meters. Metered Parking, refers to paid parking, which, will be conducted on the PayByPhone System. Currently, the parking lots at North City Beach, South City Beach Parks and the On-Street parking at Joseph Scavo Park, utilize the Pay-By-Phone App and have Physical Meters, that will continue to operate, under The Proposed Parking Program. What If I Get A Ticket, Is There A Traffic Court To Dispute Tickets? All disputes are processed through the Broward County Clerk Of The Courts. Parking citations, outline the instructions for contesting, parking citations. When Will This Program Be Implemented? Upon approval of the ordinance, changes by the City Of Hallandale Beach's Commission, the City will begin a Public Education Campaign, to inform residents and visitors of the new rates and zones. Meters and the Pay-By-Phone App, will be updated to reflect the new rates and information. As the City adjusts to this new parking policy and the fees, there is expected to be a grace period, where warnings will be issued, instead of violations. When the grace period expires, the City's Parking Enforcement Team, will implement, full enforcement of the City's updated parking plan, as approved, by the City Commission. Where Is The Money You Are Collecting For Parking, Going? This revenue, will be placed into the general fund, which can be used to replace our aging fleet of Police Vehicles, allow the City to keep parks open longer, expedite permitting processes and increase, Code Compliance efforts. The City Commission will ultimately decide, how the funds are allocated. What About Handicapped Folks & Veterans? Vehicles with a Handicap or have Military Veteran License Plates, are exempt from paying for parking, regardless of where they are parked, provided, they park legally, in a Designated Parking Space. Do Residents With Assigned On-site Parking Have To Buy A Parking Pass? The Resident Parking Pass, is only for Vehicles, parking in Designated Parking Spaces, in the public's, right of way. Residents with adequate On-Site Parking, are not required, to purchase a Parking Pass. What’s The Budget & Estimated Income From Parking? Based on conservative estimates, the expansion of the City of Hallandale Beach's Parking Program, would result in approximately $1.4 Million, in new revenue. The Annual cost for Parking Specialist Salaries, the cost for maintaining Parking Vehicles, Equipment, etc., is anticipated to be $320,000, Annually. Will This Program Create New Spaces? The Parking Program anticipates more available parking spaces, not the creation of new spaces. By charging for parking, parking spaces are anticipated, to have higher turnovers, resulting, in more availability. Will Condo Owners Receive A Discounted Rate For On-Street Parking? The Resident Parking Pass Program, will allow residents to purchase A Monthly Resident Zone Pass for $30. The passes will be restricted, to be within the Designated Zone, where the resident's can prove, residency. The passes will eliminate the need to pay the parking fee hourly, in that zone and allow residents, to receive The Resident Discounted Hourly Rate, throughout the City. Acquisition Of The Residential Pass, does not guarantee or reserve a space. Why Can’t Northeast 3rd Street & The Parking Around Arts Square, Be A Standard Zone? The Northeast 3rd Street and Arts Square District, were not identified, as Residential Zones, as housing in the neighborhood, already has, adequate Off-Street Parking. The area is mixed with both business and residential use and has, On-Street Parking, used primarily by visitors. Why Is Metered Parking Needed To Tow Abandoned Vehicles? Metered Parking is not required to enforce Abandoned Vehicles. Metered Parking is being implemented, to collect revenues, to pay for public services, attributed to the public's, right of way, as well as address the availability of parking, by increasing turnover and addressing, Abandoned Vehicles. Free On-Street Parking in the City, has only been free to the person, parking in the space, not to the City. That free space costs money. Parking Industry Experts, rely on the International Parking Institute for research, that research, indicates that each space, costs at least $400 annually, to maintain. The cost of one person's free parking, includes: the cost of the land, pavement, street cleaning and other related services, which are subsidized, by the rest of the City’s taxpayers. Is The City Staffing Up On Meter Enforcers To Catch Offenders For Not parking? Yes, the City has hired four (4) parking enforcement specialists, assigned to the Police Department. Will The Monthly Passes Only Be Available Via The App? Yes, the residents will be able to purchase The Residential Pass on the Pay-By-Phone App. Residents without a Smart Phone, can purchase The Monthly Pass, over the Phone. Do Residents With A Zone Pass, Still Need To Pay The Hourly Parking Fee? The Residential Parking Program, will allow residents to purchase A Monthly Resident Zone Pass for $30. The passes will be restricted to, the Designated Zone, where the resident can prove residency. The passes will eliminate the need to pay for, the Parking Fee hourly, in that zone, allow residents to receive, the Resident Discounted Hourly Rate throughout the City. Acquisition of the Residential Pass, does not guarantee or reserve a space. How Will The Monthly Pass, Be Distributed To The Residents? The Parking Program will generate a higher turnover, of parking spaces. This will increase the availability of parking spaces for residents, more than what is currently available, today. How Many Monthly Passes Can A Resident Purchase? Residents will be able to purchase a maximum of three (3) Parking Passes, per Residence. How Do We Get The Benefit, Of Increased Turnover, Of Spots? The increase in turnover, will be realized from the constant movement of dumped, abandoned or Visiting Vehicles, which often occupy, the right of way, for extended periods of time. The City may choose to modify the Parking Program in the future, so the phases, meet the needs, of Residential Parking Zones. Can We Pay For The Monthly Parking Pass, At The City Hall, In Cash? Parking can only be paid through our Pay-By-Phone Service. Residents can pay via the Pay-By-Phone App or by Phone. How Will Commercial Vehicle On-Street Parking Be Handled? Current, the City Code prohibits the parking of Commercial Vehicles, on the streets, in residential areas. The Proposed Parking Program, included the addition of four Parking Enforcement Specialists, who will enforce all ordinance and statutory violations, related to parking. Commercial vehicles, are prohibited from purchasing, A Monthly Parking Pass. What Is The Total Cost For The Monthly Parking Pass, Including Service Fees? The current Pay-By-Phone Transaction Fee is .27¢ per month. The total cost is anticipated, to be $30.27 per month. Why Is Diana Drive, Considered A Premium Zone? Diana Drive, is a designated, premium parking area, due to the abundance of hotel patrons, utilizing the On-Street Parking, to avoid paying for parking, at the Beachwalk Hotel. The premium rate to park overnight, was required to disincentivize the Hotel patrons, from using the On-Street Parking. The increased rate, will provide residents more available On-Street parking, as hotel patrons, will more likely, park in the hotel's parking lot. The Resident Parking Pass Fee, remains at $30 per month, for residents living in the Diana Drive Zone. What Evidence Is There, That There Is Shopper or Transient Parking, On Golden Isles Drive? There is no evidence of shopper or transient parking, on Golden Isles Drive. The quote, was referring to, commercial areas, in the City. Why Does The City Allow Buildings, To Be Built, Without Adequate On-Site Parking? The parking space requirements, have varied over the years. Currently, parking requirements for new construction, necessitate, more parking spaces. How Will The Parking Lot At Bluesten Park Be Enforcing, Parking Regulations? Parking around the perimeter of Bluesten Park, will be enforced at the Standard Rate or through, the Residential Parking Pass. Parking in the Peter Bluesten Parking Lot for Park and YMCA users, will continue to be free, when the park is open. By current ordinances, parking in the park's parking lots, is limited to Park/YMCA users, only. Can A Resident, Purchase A Monthly Pass To Be Used By Their Guests? Only residents that reside in the Residential Parking Zones, can purchase A Parking Pass for their registered Vehicles. Any other Vehicles, must pay, the hourly rates. There are no free/temporary guest parking spaces available, through this program. Residents in a Parking Zone, could purchase A Monthly Zone Pass, for their Vehicle and allow their guest to use their On-Site Parking Spots, (please confirm this, with your specific condominium rules) and the owner, could the owner, park on the street, to save the guest, from paying, the hourly, overnight rate. Is There A Senior Discount? There is a Resident Parking Discount for all registered residents, as well as a monthly, Resident Parking Pass, available to residents, including seniors. What Does The Monthly Parking Pass Include? The monthly resident pass, will allow the resident to park in the Designated Residential Zone, without paying, the hourly rate. The Resident Pass, also registers the Vehicle for the Resident Discount, which will be available, Citywide. Residents do not need to purchase A Resident Pass, to obtain the Resident Discount, on hourly parking. All residents are encouraged, to register free of charge, to obtain, The Resident Discount. Could The Parking Program Be Expanded, To Other Locations? The City may choose to expand The Parking Program and add Zones in future phases, of the Parking Program. Will A Monthly Parking Pass Guarantee/Reserve A Spot? Acquisition of The Residential Pass, does not guarantee or reserve, a space. < Previous News Next News >

Unique Party Boat Experience: Freaky Tiki Charters Announces Its One-Of-A-Kind Journey August 29, 2024 Share Freaky Tiki Boat Charters is excited to announce the grand opening of its premier party boat experience in Fort Lauderdale, bringing a new wave of fun and excitement to the city’s waterways. With a unique twist on traditional boating, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters offers a festive, tiki-themed adventure perfect for all types of gatherings, from bachelorette and bachelor parties to birthdays, corporate events and casual get-togethers. A New Wave of Entertainment on the Water Fort Lauderdale, often referred to as the "Venice of America" due to its extensive canal system, has long been a destination for boating enthusiasts and tourists alike. Freaky Tiki Boat Charters is set to elevate the local experience with its one-of-a-kind tiki boat, designed to host up to 22 guests for an unforgettable journey through the city’s iconic waterways. Each charter offers a blend of scenic views, good vibes, and an energetic atmosphere, complete with your favorite music, drinks, and a crew dedicated to ensuring a memorable outing. Whether cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway or anchored at a sandbar for a floating party, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters provides a versatile space for any occasion. Customized Experiences for Every Occasion Freaky Tiki Charters offers fully customizable packages to cater to the unique needs of every group. Guests can choose from a variety of charter options, including daytime adventures, sunset cruises, and evening excursions, each tailored to create the perfect ambiance for their event. "We're thrilled to bring something truly exciting to Fort Lauderdale," said Azeem Sultan, Owner of Freaky Tiki Boat Charters. "Our goal is to provide a fun, safe, and unforgettable experience for everyone who steps aboard. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fun day out on the water, our tiki boats are the perfect setting." A Safe and Enjoyable Experience Safety is a top priority at Freaky Tiki Boat Charters. Each boat is operated by a licensed and experienced captain who is familiar with the local waters, ensuring a smooth and secure ride. The boats are also equipped with all necessary safety equipment, and the crew is trained to provide exceptional service while adhering to all safety regulations. In addition to its party-centric focus, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters is committed to responsible boating practices. The company encourages guests to enjoy their time on the water while respecting the local environment, promoting sustainable practices that help preserve Fort Lauderdale’s natural beauty. Book Your Tiki Adventure Today Freaky Tiki Charters is now accepting bookings for its Fort Lauderdale location. Whether you're a local looking for a new way to enjoy the city or a visitor seeking a unique experience, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters promises an adventure you won’t forget. For more information or to book your charter, visit: https://www.freakytikicharters.com/. Or call: (754) 328-9387. Follow Freaky Tiki Boat Charters on Social Media at: @freakytikicharters for updates, special offers, and a glimpse of what to expect on your next tiki adventure. About Freaky Tiki Boat Charters Freaky Tiki Charters is a premier party boat company offering unique, tiki-themed charters in Fort Lauderdale. With a commitment to fun, safety, and exceptional service, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters provides an unparalleled experience on the water. Whether for special occasions or casual outings, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters is the go-to choice for unforgettable adventures. < Previous News Next News >

Your Passport To Paradise: Unveiling The Allure Of Casa Velas Hotel Puerto Vallarta By Merilee Kern, MBA February 15, 2024 Share Nestled within an upscale residential neighborhood, just a short five-minute drive from Puerto Vallarta Airport, the AAA Four Diamond Casa Velas stands as a serene, adults-only boutique resort exemplifying standards in the luxury all-inclusive sector. As part of the prestigious Velas Resorts portfolio—renowned for being the only chain with four properties in U.S. News & World Report’s list of the top 25 all-inclusive resorts in Mexico—Casa Velas continues to exceed expectations with its unique charm and bespoke hospitality. Unlike traditional hotels, this Spanish hacienda-esque resort feels like a private estate replete with attentive staff members who add a personalized touch to the guest experience. The 80 traditional, artwork-adorned Mexican-styled suites at Casa Velas are designed for utmost comfort, each featuring a private terrace with a plunge pool or In-Suite Jacuzzi, Hypo-Allergenic Pillows, Goose Down Feather Duvets, FREE WiFi, Satellite TV, safe deposit box, coffee maker, bathrobes and slippers and L’Occitane Bath Products, as well as a fully stocked Mini Bar. Guests can choose from five room types: Master Suite; Grand Class Suite; Ambassador Suite; Governor Suite or the Presidential Suite. For those seeking copious privacy and space to spread out, the 3,000-square-foot, four-bedroom Presidential Suite is a haven offering a top-end luxury escape. The space, suited for up to eight guests, boasts original artwork by Mexican Artist Sergio Bustamante, a large dining room, living room, master suite with a spacious marble-laden bathroom and an expansive terrace with an oversized plunge pool and Jacuzzi. It also comes complete with its own butler and bartender. It’s worth noting that Casa Velas actually has Bustamante’s sculptures in the majority of the suites, allowing most guests to enjoy the captivatingly authentic artwork. Amidst its Spanish-style architecture and captivating interior design, the resort is ensconced in a lush garden setting on the 18-hole Marina Vallarta Golf Course. The tropical landscaping and abundant flora and fauna woven throughout the entirety of the hotel create a breathtaking setting, attracting wildlife—including Koi Ponds and "Pet" Snapping Turtles. For golf enthusiasts, Casa Velas guests receive special access and discounts at Marina Vallarta and Vista Vallarta Golf Clubs. For its part, the par 71 layout of Marina Vallarta’s 18-hole golf course, designed by Joe Finger, is rife with flourishing vegetation, wildlife-laden lagoons and beautiful views of Banderas Bay. Guests can also enjoy discounted golf privileges at two other top 18-hole, 72 par golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf located at the Vista Vallarta Golf Club only 20 minutes away. Casa Velas guests can soak up the sun at its private pool cushioned in a tropical landscape that overlooks the golf course. Its swim-up Aqua Bar ensures refreshments—including: Local Brews, Tropical Drinks and Classic Mexican Cocktails crafted from Premium Liquor Brands—flow all day through. The newest offering at Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta allows guests to experience pure relaxation with their own “Wellness Cabana.” Available in the intimate space of their suite, or at the Botanical Garden adjacent to the spa labyrinth, wellness-focused amenities include Aromatherapy, a personal speaker with calming meditation music, spa water, a MUSE meditation headband and mandala adult coloring books, among other items. For those desiring to unwind and explore off-site, the resort also provides complimentary shuttle service to the private Táu Beach Club, offering guests a beachside retreat with cushioned loungers, cabanas, food and beverage service for lunch and dinner and a pristine infinity pool and Jacuzzi area proffering idyllic panoramic views of the sparkling sea. Plus, the property is a mere fifteen minutes from the popular downtown area, where there are art galleries and the famed El Malecon Boardwalk. Also making Casa Velas a standout is its elevated gourmet food and beverage program, which raises the bar for all-inclusive hotels globally. The on-site, AAA Four Diamond Emiliano restaurant offers guests unlimited access to gourmet cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The intimate, romantic indoor/outdoor dining space provides lovely vistas of the pool and vibrant golf course beyond. Each evening, Emiliano features a five-course gourmet tasting menu created and overseen by head chefs from its sister resort, the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. Rotating each night, menus include Mexican, French and Italian-Mediterranean. A novel offering is the resort’s “Taco Therapy” — Casa Velas’ latest food and beverage offering for guests assisting in Anxiety and Stress Relief, improving sleep quality and boosting Antioxidants. The new tasting experience features four curated Tacos that provide holistic benefits for the mind, body and soul. There are an array of other activities at the resort as well. “Workshops range from arts and crafts such as natural Jewelry and Abanicos, to culinary workshops such as the Molcajete option, where guests explore Mexican culinary traditions,” said Enrique Sinencio, the resort’s General Manager. “Another activity is DIY Botanical Cocktails, where guests can pick their ingredients for their drink at the onsite garden. Perfect for creative beverage concoctions, the garden features Rosemary, Lavender, Mint, Basil, Lemongrass, Peppermint, a Mexican Tea called Epazote, Aloe Vera, Sage, Nopales Cactus Pads, Thyme, Tamarind, Jackfruit, Mango, Guava and more. Our mixologist will use the selected ingredients to make a personalized botanical cocktail to enjoy on the Koi Pond-dotted terrace. Varieties of fruits, herbs, vegetables and botanicals are also used in the cuisine and spa treatments at Casa Velas.” For the health conscious, a spa food menu is available as well. Casa Velas’ commitment to excellence extends to its impressive on-site Organic Botanical Garden, where the resort grows its own herbs, flowers and vegetables. These fresh ingredients find their way into cocktails and culinary creations, adding a farm-to-table element to the dining experience. The beverage offerings at Emiliano, and throughout the entirety of Casa Velas, are equally impressive, featuring Premium Domestic and International Premium Wines and Liquors. Also enjoyable are spirit-induced nightly events like Wine Pairings and Beer, Tequila, Wine, Martini and other F&B tastings that foster socialization among guests. Relative to in-suite victuals, the resort's in-suite Mini Bars also depart from the ordinary by offering healthy, freshly-made options on-demand. This includes two different selections of Crudités—a “Mexican Turnip” with a combination of Carrots, Cucumber and Jicama; and another including: Celery, Beetroot and Pineapple. These come complete with three different choices of dressing: Mango, Chipotle or Basil, to enhance flavor while keeping the snack light and healthy. Guests can also choose from a menu of freshly made juice options available year-round. Speaking of health, also included in the daily rate for all-inclusive Casa Velas guests is access to its fully equipped gym. A visit to the property also would not be complete without experiencing services at its on-site ABJA Spa. The 6,500 square foot sanctuary offers a wide variety of massages, body wraps and facials, a hydrotherapy area, spa boutique and beauty salon. Notably, Casa Velas is just as committed to the environment as it is to providing impressive guest experiences. “Our luxury resort’s environmental responsibility is a driving force behind the entire operation, from conservation efforts and Recycling, to planting our own herb garden,” Sinencio notes. “From natural composting and fertilizing of our on-site gardens, to Water-Saving Initiatives, Solar Heating and meticulous separation and processing of all Waste and Recyclables, Casa Velas sets the benchmark for Green Tourism and hospitality in Puerto Vallarta and beyond. We also Recycle burned Cooking Oils to a supplier for conversion to Biodegradable Fuel. Local companies are in charge of processing glass, plastic, metal, cardboard and toxic material to handle their Recycling, and proper disposal.” “In addition, we clean the sand daily of any foreign debris,” Sinencio continued. “Teams of more than 30 employees are organized monthly to thoroughly clean, sweep, dig and sift the sand for extra cleaning. Designated containers are strategically located for the Recycling Garbage around the property. Since the COVID-19 Pandemic, Casa Velas has implemented rigorous health and safety protocols in accordance with local and international guidelines. This includes enhanced cleaning procedures, regular sanitization of common areas and the adoption of contactless services where possible. We keep our guests informed through various channels, including our Website, Social Media and direct communication with booked guests. We want everyone to be aware of the measures in place and feel confident in choosing Casa Velas for their stay.” So pristine the locale, it’s become a highly-coveted option for weddings and other important events. The resort boasts a 3,600 square foot Convention Center that is ideal for meetings, seminars, formal banquets, cocktail gatherings or a spectacular and elegant wedding for up to 300 people. The center of the space is adjacent to the resort’s garden area and the Marina Vallarta 18-hole championship golf course. To ensure a memorable, hassle-free event, Casa Velas provides professional services for planning weddings from beginning to end. With settings by its beautiful pool area or the Táu Beach Club Terrace surrounded by sand and sea, Casa Velas offers unforgettable scenery for the special wedding day. For utter and complete privacy, groups requiring up to 80 suites can take over the entire hotel to ensure fully private access to pools, beach areas, gardens, activities and restaurants. While at the restaurants, the “bubble buyout” offers a group their own personalized menus prepared with everyone’s diet in mind. Along with having the resort to themselves and custom cuisine, group activities range from DIY Mixology with ingredients from the onsite Botanical Garden, Yoga, Mexican Wine and Craft Beer Tastings, Casino Night and more. With various international dignitaries and multiple Mexican presidents having experienced the resort's hospitality, Casa Velas continues to redefine the all-inclusive category. This pristine property is an ideal choice for discerning travelers who value a personalized and pampered luxury travel experience. For more information, visit: www.hotelcasavelas.com Casa Velas | Your Summer at a Private Oasis Feel the magic of summer in an Adults-Only paradise that delights you with haute cuisine, luxury amenities, and so much more. < Previous News Next News >

A Different Kind of Love: Stop Swiping Left Or Right And Adopt A Shelter Pet Instead February 16, 2023 Share It’s officially the month of love and the Humane Society Of Greater Miami is urging the community to open their hearts to a different, more rewarding kind of love – the unconditional love of a shelter pet! So if your Valentine's Day wasn't all you hoped it would be, this month, The Animal Welfare Organization will be sharing special “dating” profiles for some of their longtime shelter residents in hopes that their sweet and unique personalities will catch the eye of their soulmate! “With so many dogs and cats that have been overlooked for months and even years at our shelter, we wanted to find a more modern approach to help our longtimers find a home,” says Jossie Aguirre, Executive Director at The Humane Society Of Greater Miami. “We hope these fun “dating profiles” will show them in a new light and help them connect better with new adopters.” The Humane Society Of Greater Miami is a limited-admit, adoption guarantee facility, so every animal admitted is free from the threat of Euthanasia due to time, space or treatable medical conditions. They care for every animal for as long as it takes to find them their forever families. Every time you adopt a pet from them, you are saving two: the pet you are taking home and the homeless animal you have just made space for in the shelter! The Humane Society Of Greater Miami has been helping homeless animals in Miami-Dade County since 1936. Today, more than 400 homeless dogs, cats, puppies and kittens each day are cared for at The Soffer And Fine Adoption Center in North Miami Beach. We are able to give these animals a second chance by providing tender loving care, a good meal, shelter and medical care for as long as it takes to find them homes with kind, responsible and committed caregivers. The organization works diligently at creating a more kind, just and loving community for the pets and people of Miami-Dade County. They offer programs and services to educate, inform and inspire people to take responsible care of their pets and treat animals with the kindness they deserve. With the support of people from across Miami-Dade County, they are helping to create a better community for all. They run a preventive veterinary clinic in North Miami Beach, where they strive to end our community’s pet overpopulation problem by performing thousands of sterilization surgeries each year. The shelter has programs that help the financially challenged people of our community by providing low-cost and even free services for Vaccinations and Spay/Neuter Surgeries. Each animal that is cared for at the shelter is free from the threat of Euthanasia while they wait for their forever family. More than 3,300 animals each year find their human companions and begin their new lives in the comfort of homes around our community and South Florida. Before a pet is available for adoption, great lengths are made to make sure the pet is healthy, Vaccinated and Spayed or Neutered. They provide counseling and guidance to make sure the right match is made and the right pet is adopted into the right home. Staff and Volunteers of The Humane Society Of Greater Miami travel to schools, libraries, organizations and clubs to teach the young and the old about responsible pet ownership and to promote the human/animal bond. Their philosophy is to engage the young and teach them about being kind to animals, being a responsible pet owner and the causes and effects of pet overpopulation while also educating the parents and the elderly making it a full circle of informed members of our community. More than 6,000 children and adults are seen on a yearly basis. Anyone who has ever owned a pet knows of the unconditional love and acceptance pets bring. The Humane Society Of Greater Miami’s Pet Therapy Program brings the unique and healing human/animal bond to residents and patients of healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, children’s hospitals and senior citizen homes across Miami. It is well documented that interaction with animals can significantly improve humans’ physical and emotional health. Put as simply as possible, pets make people feel good! The Humane Society Of Greater Miami is a Not-For-Profit Charitable Animal Welfare Organization supported by donations, private grants and fundraising events. They rely on our local community for financial support. So this month stop swiping and visit: www.humanesocietymiami.org or stop by the shelter to see all of the eligible “bark”chelors and “paw”chelorettes, today! < Previous News Next News >

AMAZONAS: The Rhythm of Nature June 20, 2024 Share In a harmonious fusion of artistry and advocacy, Brazilian Voices, the renowned female vocal group, brings forth "AMAZONAS: The Rhythm of Nature," an enchanting performance that transcends mere entertainment to deliver a poignant message about the Amazon Rainforest and the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystem. Imagine this, the stage is set, and as the lights dim, the audience is immersed in the captivating world of Brazilian Voices. With a mesmerizing blend of powerful vocal interpretations, rich bossa nova harmonies, and an unmistakable passion, the ensemble embarks on a musical journey that celebrates the profound beauty of the Amazon Rainforest while shedding light on its imminent threats. Led by a cadre of talented female vocalists, Brazilian Voices delivers a performance that transcends language barriers, speaking directly to the heart and soul of every listener. As the melodies weave through the air, Brazilian Voices pays homage to the legendary composers of Brazil, including the likes of Tom Jobim, Dori Caymy, Sergio Mendes, and Marisa Monte. Each note resonates with the essence of Brazilian culture, evoking images of sun-kissed beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cityscapes. With delightful fluidity and warmth, the group captures the spirit of these musical maestros, infusing their compositions with a fresh vitality that breathes new life into timeless classics. Complementing the vocal harmonies is the stunning visual artistry of Brazilian artist Ernesto Kunde. Through a captivating display of projected images, Kunde paints a vivid portrait of the Amazon Rainforest, inviting the audience to witness its awe-inspiring beauty and confront the looming threats that endanger its existence. From lush green canopies to cascading waterfalls, each image serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage for generations to come. But the message of "AMAZONAS: The Rhythm of Nature" extends far beyond the confines of the stage. In the gallery lobby, attendees will have the opportunity to view the evocative paintings of Brazilian visual artist Clara Piquet. Drawing inspiration from indigenous communities and the environment, Piquet's artwork serves as a visual manifesto, calling attention to the urgent need for environmental conservation and cultural preservation. A Call to Action As the final notes of the performance fade into the night, Brazilian Voices leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who bear witness to their artistry. But their message lingers long after the applause has ceased — a rallying cry for environmental stewardship and a testament to the power of music and art in effecting positive change. With seats starting at $42.00, "AMAZONAS: The Rhythm of Nature" is not merely a concert—it's a transformative experience that ignites the spirit and inspires action in the face of adversity. In a world where the fate of the Amazon Rainforest hangs in the balance, Brazilian Voices stands as a beacon of hope, using their voices to amplify the call for conservation and preservation. Join them on September 14th, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, and together, let us raise our voices in harmony for the protection of our planet's most precious treasures. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy 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. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-square-foot, 330-seat waterfront complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. < Previous News Next News >

A South Florida Legend: Beloved Rabbi Dovid Bryn zt"l, Founder of Chabad Chayil & the California Club Shul By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil May 17, 2024 Share Tuesday, 6 Iyar - May 14, 5784 (2024), marked the 22nd Yohrtzeit (anniversary of passing) of South Florida Legend, the beloved Rabbi Dovid Bryn zt"l, Founder of Chabad Chayil & the California Club Shul. Mostly known for his unending acts of kindness and genuine love for every human being, he is truly missed by all who knew him. Some rabbis are known for their gigantic shuls and temples, but Rabbi Bryn had a much bigger Shul, one not bound by walls. His shul was in the flea markets, soccer fields of the JCC & in people’s homes. His Sunday afternoon would be spent in a teenager’s living room with a pair of Tefillin and a group of friends. His Shul was in the community’s hearts. Rabbi Bryn was a Chabad rabbi and a Shliach emissary of The Rebbe to North Dade, Florida, whose life was tragically cut short at age 40 by Marfan syndrome, a condition that affects the body's connective tissue. For over a quarter of a century, Rabbi Bryn – the son of Holocaust survivors - courageously battled the fatal disease that decimated his heart, yet managed to minister to, counsel and save tens of thousands of Jews and non-Jews alike. Rabbi Bryn fed the hungry and poor, counseled the sick and the troubled - all with great courage, fortitude and self-sacrifice. He arranged marriages, taught Torah and ethics to thousands, bridged the interfaith gap by working closely with people and clergymen of all faiths… he was the living embodiment of kindness and bravery. Some might be troubled by the precariousness of constantly living on the edge of existence, but the beloved rabbi’s overflowing concern for others left no room for worry over his own well-being. He lived the equivalent of 120 years of good in a third of the time. One friend commented on www.RabbiDovidBryn.org - which was created to remember the legendary Chassid, ‘If he could breathe, then he would talk to others about G-d's good, the beauty of a Mitzvah, or life's bright spots. If he could walk, then he would go to share life with others and show a positive perspective as it should be seen. If he could drink, then he would toast L'Chaim to all things positive and constructive. If he could sing, then he would. If he could do, then he did. He showed strength not owned by men who appear stronger. He showed love that is only written about. He lived a full life of treating others as one would treat themselves. When I need an example of the unrelenting power of love, I think of him.’ For the past 20 years, we’ve been getting together for an annual Farbrengen, to say a l’chaim, reminisce about the good times shared together and, most important, to talk about how his chesed - his loving kindness for every human being could be emulated. Please join us for a special Shabbat Kiddush Lunch Farbrengen on Saturday, May 18. The event will take place at Chabad Chayil's temporary location behind 2601 NE 211 Ter, in the Highland Lakes section of Miami. To view or share photos or experiences of this remarkable man, please visit: www.RabbiDovidBryn.org - The Sefer TorahSiyum Completion Ceremony is. Please dedicate this day to doing an extra Mitzvah, by going out of your way to doing someone a favor. You can be his hands and feet, in making this world a better place. Think global, but act local! Don’t push it off for tomorrow, do something today! And you will have a tremendous part of bringing healing to a wounded world; making it a better place for all, one good deed at a time, until the world reaches perfection, with the coming of Moshiach. May that happen today! The Author Rabbi Kievman is the ambassador of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. He is founder of CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools, Rabbi at The Family Shul & together with his wife directs Chabad Chayil. He can be reached at: (305) 770-1919 - Or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org < Previous News Next News >

Tug-Of-War: Bodily Autonomy Vs Economic Livelihood By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead November 25, 2021 Share “The government is turning employers — who are not paid by, nor work for, the government—into an army of Vaccine enforcers.” John W. Whitehead “Man is born free but everywhere is in chains.”—Jean-Jacques Rousseau We are moving fast down the road to Fascism. This COVID-19 Pandemic has shifted us into high gear. The heavy-handed collusion between the Techno-Corporate State and the U.S. Government over Vaccine Mandates and is merely the latest manifestation of the extent to which Fascist forces are working to overthrow our Constitutional Republic and nullify the rights of the individual. In early November 2021, the Biden Administration drew its line in the sand for more than 100 million American workers: get vaccinated against COVID-19 (by November 22nd for federal workers and on January 4th for Federal Contractors and companies with more than 100 employees) or else. Or else what? For many individuals with sincere objections to the Vaccine, either based on their religious beliefs or some other medical or philosophical concern, non-compliance with workplace Vaccine Mandates will mean losing their jobs and the possibility of no unemployment benefits. One survey conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management estimated that 28% of employed Americans wouldn’t get a COVID-19 Vaccine even if it meant losing their jobs. Although OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is requiring that employees be paid for the time it takes to get vaccinated and recover from any side effects, those who refuse to get vaccinated but keep their jobs will have to test negative for COVID-19 weekly and could be made to shoulder the costs of those weekly tests. Healthcare workers are not being given an option for testing: it’s the Vaccine or nothing. To give the government’s arm-twisting some added strength, companies that violate the workplace mandate rules “can face fines of up to $13,653 per violation for serious violations and 10 times that for willful or repeated violations.” In other words, as Katrina Trinko writes for USA Today, “the government is turning employers—who are not paid by, nor work for, the government—into an army of Vaccine Enforcers.” You know who won’t suffer any harm as a result of these Vaccine Mandates? The Corporate State (manufacturers, distributors and health care providers), which were given a blanket “get out of jail” card to insulate them from liability for any injuries or death caused by the vaccines. While this vaccine mandate is being presented as a “targeted” mandate as opposed to a national mandate that impacts the entire population, it effectively leaves those with sincere objections to the COVID-19 Vaccine with very little options beyond total compliance or unemployment. This has long since ceased to be a debate over how best to protect the populace at large against an unknown Pandemic. Rather, it has become a massively intrusive, coercive and authoritarian assault on the right of individual sovereignty over one’s life, self and private property. As such, these COVID-19 Mandates have become the new battleground in the government’s tug-of-war over bodily autonomy and individual sovereignty. Already, the legal challenges to these vaccine mandates are piling up before the courts. Before long, divided circuit court rulings will make their way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which will be asked to decide whether these mandates constitute government overreach or a natural extension of the government’s so-called emergency powers. With every new court ruling that empowers corporations and the government to use heavy-handed tactics to bring about Vaccine compliance, with every new workplace mandate that forces employees to choose between their right to bodily autonomy and economic livelihood, and with every new piece of legislation that insulates corporations and the government from being held accountability for Vaccine injuries and deaths, our property interest in our bodies is diminished. At a minimum, our right to individual sovereignty over our lives and our bodies is being usurped by power-hungry authoritarians; greedy, self-serving corporations; egotistical Nanny Staters who think they know what’s best for the rest of the populace; and a short-sighted but well-meaning populace which fails to understand the long-term ramifications of trading their essential freedoms for temporary promises of safety and security. We are more vulnerable now than ever before. This debate over bodily autonomy, which covers broad territory ranging from forced vaccinations, abortion and euthanasia to forced blood draws, biometric surveillance and basic healthcare, has far-reaching ramifications for who gets to decide what happens to our bodies during an encounter with government officials. On a daily basis, Americans are already being made to relinquish the most intimate details of who we are—our biological makeup, our genetic blueprints, and our biometrics (facial characteristics and structure, fingerprints, iris scans, etc.)—in order to clear the nearly insurmountable hurdle that increasingly defines life in the United States: we are now guilty until proven innocent. This merely pushes us one step further down that road towards a total control society in which the government in collusion with Corporate America gets to decide who is “worthy” of being allowed to take part in society. Right now, COVID-19 Vaccines are the magic ticket for gaining access to the “privileges” of communal life. Having already conditioned the population to the idea that being part of society is a privilege and not a right, such access could easily be predicated on social credit scores, the worthiness of one’s political views, or the extent to which one is willing to comply with the government’s dictates, no matter what they might be. The government is litigating and legislating its way into a new framework where the dictates of petty bureaucrats carry greater weight than the inalienable rights of the citizenry. When all that we own, all that we earn, all that we say and do—our very lives—depends on the benevolence of government agents and corporate shareholders for whom profit and power will always trump principle, we should all be leery and afraid. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, nothing good can come from totalitarian tactics—no matter how benevolent they appear—that are used to make us cower, fear and comply with the government’s dictates. 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 < Previous News Next News >

Electric Vehicles Are On The Ballot: Florida Drivers Confused By EV Messaging As Election Rhetoric Intensifies August 8, 2024 Share Electric Vehicles (EVs) have certainly taken a prominent spot in media coverage lately, with many reports singing praises of how they’re kinder to the planet, easier on the wallet in the long run, and pretty zippy to drive. Plus, there’s that sweetener of tax breaks and incentives that governments are throwing into the mix to get us all on board. But, there are drawbacks. Forking out more cash upfront, fretting over whether your battery will give up the ghost sooner rather than later, and the head-scratching over where you'll next be able to charge up are real deal-breakers for some. The political landscape further muddles the situation. Former President Trump, who once criticized EVs, has softened his stance since growing friendlier with Tesla’s Elon Musk. Recently, Trump told a rally in Michigan, “I’m constantly talking about Electric Vehicles but I don’t mean I’m against them. I’m totally for them.” This shift, coupled with ongoing mixed signals from the political arena, leaves many drivers at a crossroads - enticed by the promise of EVs but wary of their current limitations. "These are valid apprehensions that deserve attention, but they shouldn’t overshadow the remarkable progress and potential of EV Technology,” says Brentley Jones, Owner of Quantrell Subaru. In an effort to gauge where drivers stand on this, Quantrell Subaru surveyed 3,000 drivers to understand the public's hesitations and hopes regarding EVs. The survey indicated a split - it appears many Floridians love the idea but aren't quite ready to break up with their gas-guzzlers just yet. They're craving more info and some reassurance that the tech won't let them down. The study revealed that almost 1-in-3 (31%) of Florida drivers remain uncertain about the practicality of switching to an EV, highlighting the need for clearer information. For 20%, the higher upfront cost is a drawback. Another 20% express concern about the current state of charging station networks. And, naturally, the potential costs and hassles of battery replacement weigh on the minds of 26% of those surveyed. On the flip side, a good number of drivers are clearly swayed by the positive impact on the environment, with 32% pointing to the appeal of lower running costs. The high-performance aspect of EVs hasn't gone unnoticed either, attracting 19% of potential buyers, while government incentives are a deciding factor for 15%, underscoring the role that policy plays in consumer decisions. Regarding those incentives, the survey suggests that their removal could significantly cool the Florida public's interest in EVs, with 62% indicating they might rethink an EV purchase. Moreover, a little over half support the idea of moving away from gas-powered cars altogether, reflecting a growing readiness for a more sustainable mode of transport. However, there's a degree of mistrust in the mix, with 57% viewing the push for EVs as potentially profit-driven, casting doubt on the sincerity of the sustainability narrative. The power of the media is also evident, with positive reporting on EVs swaying 29% of survey participants towards considering an EV. Yet, some are wary, with 43% concerned about the possibility of increased surveillance and control over their driving patterns through EV technology. “While there are hurdles to overcome, the future of EVs is bright. Dealers find themselves at the frontlines, tasked with eliminating customers' apprehensions around issues like range limitations, battery degradation, and long-term maintenance costs. Through open conversations and access to accurate data, they can demystify the EV ownership experience,” continues Mr. Jones Jones. "With continued innovation, investment in Infrastructure, and collaborative efforts between stakeholders, we can pave the way for a greener, more sustainable tomorrow. By embracing the EV revolution, we not only drive towards cleaner air and a healthier planet but also unlock a world of exciting possibilities on the road ahead.” < Previous News Next News >

Understanding The Tax Roll: Many Newer Residents May Not Be Aware, It's Not Just City Taxes By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper October 6, 2022 Share In September, I wrote about the Taxes here and around the State. In the article, I explained about 'Save our Homes' and the 'Truth in Millage'. I do not want to be redundant, but I believe it is imperative that residents understand that the Roll Back Rate is simply a past action by State Legislators to suggest that City Governments should run on fixed costs. In other words, when Property Values go up, Taxes should go down. In the real world it does not work that way. Please visit the Sun Times Website to read the full article at: https://www.southfloridasuntimes.com/news/tax-season%3A-there-is-a-misconception-that-we-can-simply-cut-costs In the article, I explained that cities just like businesses are also subject to increased costs of operations. Our cost increases are well over 10% since we purchase different types of services and products, the typical basket of household goods that are calculated in the CPI. Unlike businesses, we do not have the luxury of picking and choosing the services we provide like: Police, Fire, Emergency Services, Water/Sewer/Stormwater Management, Code Enforcement, Building Services, Public Right Of Way and Maintenance to name a few. We also have to provide the underground and above ground infrastructure to deliver those services. On Monday, September 12th, 2022, we held two extremely important Public Meetings. We held the first Public Hearing on our City’s Budget and Millage Rates. The Millage Rate was increased to 8.2466. This represents an increase of 1.2466 Mills to generate $5.9 Million Dollars to balance our Budget without using Reserves and to provide Services at the same level. It also provides financial resources to repair the Infrastructure. The Millage Rate to pay for our Park GO Bond decreased from 0.5377 to 0.4946. There are two Special Districts, Golden Isles Rates stayed the same at 1.0934 and Three Islands also stayed the same at .6600. During the Meeting, I realized that many newer residents may not be aware that the Trim Notice they received is not just for City Taxes, it includes the County, the School Board and the Hospital District. It was also clear that when comparing City to City, it is not just about the Tax Rates. It is also about the size and type of the Tax Base. The other key is the charges for the Services. One City may have a lower Tax Rate but higher fees. We did have approximately 15 residents that came to participate in the Meeting and three speakers spoke. Obviously, they spoke against raising Taxes. As a Commission, we certainly do not want to raise Taxes, but we do have to keep our City safe and running. We are all empathic to the fact that there are some residents that are struggling to make ends meet. We also understand that many Non-Homesteaded Owners are now reconsidering keeping their second homes. Understanding these struggles, our CRA has approved a Rental Assistance Program that is available to residents that live within the CRA boundaries that include 14th Avenue and West. While we do not have this available East of 14th Avenue, we do have Emergency Funding available at the Hepburn Center Human Services Department, located at 750 Northwest 8th Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. Our Social Workers can also assist by pointing you to resources available from other agencies. It has become very costly to live in South Florida. All properties and businesses are being faced with increased cost of materials, cost for staffing, fuel and energy costs as well as the big one, insurance costs. We also understand that 40 and 50 Year Safety Repairs must be performed or buildings can be faced with red tags. There is no silver bullet and Local Governments can try to help but we also have bills to pay. We need our State and National Partners to now step up to the plate. Another Major Meeting was held on Monday afternoon to discuss our Infrastructure needs and how we will be able to pay for replacing Water/Sewer and Stormwater Pipes. There are over $358 Million Dollars of underground pipes that need replacement. Of that $180 Million is being funded by Revenue Bonds and another $19 Million will be funded by Grants. $117 Million will still need to be funded but we are targeting the most critical. Those that are 45 Years and older. The other portion is at 25 Years old. Over the past year, there were over 510 Water Main Breaks with 35 resulting in Boiled Water Notices. This is unacceptable. Like many Condos, we cannot kick the can down the road. I will go into further detail over the next few articles, but it is important that our residents understand that we need to Fund these Projects through Revenue Bonds. These types of Bonds are tied to Water/Sewer and Stormwater Fees. Our Staff has been working with a consultant that has specialized in this field for over 30 years. They have developed a financial plan that includes a phased increase in these Utility Fees. The Commission fully agreed on the plan and Rate Increases. The new Rate starting next year will be as follows. If you are not using any Water, the Base will go from 42.61 to 52.35. If you are a larger consumer and use 10,000 a month, the average bill will go from 101.96 to 119.00. In addition, the Stormwater Rates which have not been studied or raised for years will be a flat rate of $8 Dollars per month. Over the next five years, we will be covering the Bond Debt by increases of 17% year 2024, 10% year 2025, 7.5% year 2026, 5.25% year 2027 and 3.75% in 2028. Since this is a Long Term Plan, the Rates will be reviewed and Rates per type of user may change. Please know, I would welcome the opportunity to come out and discuss these important topics with your Condominium Owners. Hurricane Ian Utility Response Due to the extraordinary devastation which has occurred to the West Coast areas of the State due to Hurricane Ian, the City of Hallandale Beach is sending both Public Works Staff and Police Staff to provide much needed assistance. The four-member Response Team is prepped and ready to depart to the City of Naples. They team left Tuesday morning and once they arrived, the team assisted with making Emergency Repairs to the City’s Water Distribution System and will be returning this Sunday. "I am extremely proud of our teams for taking the lead in responding to the call for assistance." Jeff Odoms Public Works Director, City of Hallandale Beach As always, I am available for your questions, concerns and ideas to help make our City a better place. Please feel free to reach out at my office: (954) 457-1318. On my cell/text at: (954) 632-5700. Or E-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org . < Previous News Next News >

An Evening With Gary Shteyngart And Mitchell Kaplan - Bestelling Author Gary Shteyngart Shares His "Completely Delightful" New Novel VERA, OR FAITH Jewish Connection News Jul 9, 2025 The Books & Books Literary Foundation Is Proud To Present An Evening With Gary Shteyngart On July 16th, 2025 - 7:00-8:00 p.m., Discussing Vera, Or Faith: A Novel (Random House, $28). He Will Be In Conversation With Mitchell Kaplan. A Poignant, Sharp-Eyed, And Bitterly Funny Tale Of A Family Struggling To Stay Together In A Country Rapidly Coming Apart, Told Through The Eyes Of Their Wondrous Ten-Year-Old Daughter, By The Bestselling Author Of Super Sad True Love Story And Our Country Friends. About the Book A poignant, sharp-eyed, and bitterly funny tale of a family struggling to stay together in a country rapidly coming apart, told through the eyes of their wondrous ten-year-old daughter, by the bestselling author of Super Sad True Love Story and Our Country Friends “A novel you can read in one sitting that will stay with you forever.”—Karen Russell “Very funny, very sad, very sharp, and completely delightful.”—Elif Batuman A Washington Post and Literary Hub Most Anticipated Book of 2025 The Bradford-Shmulkin family is falling apart. A very modern blend of Russian, Jewish, Korean, and New England WASP, they love one another deeply but the pressures of life in an unstable America are fraying their bonds. There's Daddy, a struggling, cash-thirsty editor whose Russian heritage gives him a surprising new currency in the upside-down world of twenty-first-century geopolitics; his wife, Anne Mom, a progressive, underfunded blue blood from Boston who's barely holding the household together; their son, Dylan, whose blond hair and Mayflower lineage provide him pride of place in the newly forming American political order; and, above all, the young Vera, half-Jewish, half-Korean, and wholly original. Observant, sensitive, and always writing down new vocabulary words, Vera wants only three things in life: to make a friend at school; Daddy and Anne Mom to stay together; and to meet her birth mother, Mom Mom, who will at last tell Vera the secret of who she really is and how to ensure love's survival in this great, mad, imploding world. Both biting and deeply moving, Vera, or Faith is a boldly imagined story of family and country told through the clear and tender eyes of a child. With a nod to What Maisie Knew, Henry James's classic story of parents, children, and the dark ironies of a rapidly transforming society, Vera, or Faith demonstrates why Shteyngart is, in the words of The New York Times, "one of his generation's most exhilarating writers." About the Author Gary Shteyngart was born in Leningrad in 1972 and came to the United States seven years later. His debut novel, The Russian Debutante’s Handbook, won the Stephen Crane Award for First Fiction and the National Jewish Book Award for Fiction. His second novel, Absurdistan, was one of the The New York Times Book Review's 10 Best Books of the Year. His novel Super Sad True Love Story won the Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize and became one of the most iconic novels of the decade. His memoir, Little Failure, was a National Book Critics Circle Award finalist. His most recent novel is the New York Times bestseller Our Country Friends. His books have been published in thirty countries. He lives in New York with his wife and son. About the Moderator Mitchell Kaplan, a Miami Beach native, founded the independent bookstore chain Books & Books in 1982. Books & Books was named “Publishers’ Weekly Bookstore of the Year” in 2015. He is the co-founder of Miami Book Fair, a former president of the American Booksellers Association (ABA), and received the National Book Foundation’s prestigious “Literarian Award for Outstanding Service to the American Literary Community” in 2011. He is the host of the podcast, “The Literary Life with Mitchell Kaplan” and with his partner Paula Mazur, formed the Mazur/Kaplan film production company to bring books to the screen. Please note: This event will take place at the Books & Books in Coral Gables at 265 Aragon Ave. Tickets are REQUIRED. Each ticket admits one (1) guest into the venue and includes one (1) copy of VERA, OR FAITH ($28 + tax). If you would like to bring a guest, you must add our $5 guest fee. This fee does not include a copy and only accounts for one guest. Books will be handed out upon entry. You can purchase tickets at: https://www.booksandbooks.com/event/an-evening-with-gary-shteyngart-author-of-our-country-friends/ Previous Next

Bah Humbug Snowflakes: Christmas Has Become Yet Another Trigger Word By John & Nisha Whitehead December 20, 2023 Share The season for giving has turned into the season for getting…and for getting offended. Over the years, Christmas casualties in the campaign to create one large national safe space have ranged from the beloved animated classic Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer (denounced for promoting bullying and homophobia) to the Oscar-Winning Tune “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” (accused of being a date rape anthem) crooned by everyone from Dean Martin to Will Ferrell and Zooey Deschanel in the Movie Elf. Also on the endangered species Christmas list are such songs as “Deck The Halls,” “Santa Baby” and “White Christmas.” One publishing company even re-issued their own redacted version of Clement Clarke Moore’s famous poem “T’was The Night Before Christmas” in order to be more health conscious: the company edited out Moore’s mention of Santa smoking a pipe (“The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth/ And the smoke, it encircled his head like a wreath.”) In the politically correct quest to avoid causing offense, Christmas keeps getting axed. Examples abound. Schools across the country now avoid anything that alludes to the true meaning of Christmas such as angels, the baby Jesus, stables and shepherds. In many of the nation's schools, Christmas Carols, Christmas Trees, wreaths and candy canes have also been banned as part of the effort to avoid any reference to Christmas, Christ or God. One school even outlawed the colors red and green, saying they were Christmas colors and thus, illegal. Students asked to send seasonal cards to Military Troops have been told to make them “holiday cards” and instructed not to use the words “Merry Christmas” on their cards. Many schools have redubbed their Christmas concerts as “winter holiday programs” and refer to Christmas as a “winter festival.” Some schools have canceled holiday celebrations altogether to avoid offending those who do not celebrate the various holidays. Things have not been much better outside the schools, muddled by those who subscribe to the misguided notion that the Constitution requires that anything religious in nature be banned from public places. Clearly, Christmas has become one of many casualties in the misguided dispute over the so-called “separation of church and state,” a controversy that has given rise to a disconcerting and unconstitutional attempt to sanitize public places of any reference to God or religion. Yet there’s a really simple solution to this annual angst of whether students and teachers can display Christmas-related posters, wear Christmas colors of red and green or sing Christmas Songs and that is for government officials to stop being such Humbugs and create a vibrant, open environment where all expression can flourish. While the First Amendment prohibits the government from forcing religion on people or endorsing one particular religion over another, there is no legitimate legal reason why people should not be able to celebrate the season freely or wish each other a Merry Christmas or even mention the word Christmas. After all, the First Amendment affirms the right to Freedom For Religion, not Freedom From Religion. Hoping to clear up the legal misunderstanding over the do’s and don’ts of celebrating Christmas, The Rutherford Institute’s Constitutional Q&A on “Twelve Rules of Christmas” provides basic guidelines for lawfully celebrating Christmas in schools, workplaces and elsewhere. Yet while Christmas may be the “trigger” for purging Christmas from public places, government forums and speech—except when it profits Corporate America—it is part and parcel of the greater trend in recent years to whittle away at Free Speech and trample the First Amendment underfoot. Anything that might raise the specter of controversy is avoided at all costs. We are witnessing the emergence of an unstated yet court-sanctioned right, one that makes no appearance in the Constitution and yet seems to trump the First Amendment at every turn: the right to not be offended. In this way, emboldened by phrases such as “hate crimes,” “bullying,” “extremism” and “microaggressions,” Free Speech has been confined to carefully constructed “Free Speech Zones,” criminalized when it skates too close to challenging the status quo, shamed when it butts up against politically correct ideals, and muzzled when it appears dangerous. At the slightest hint of trouble, government officials (and corporations) are inclined to chuck anything that might be objectionable. Yet when all is said and done, what the Police State really wants is a nation of snowflakes, snitches and book burners: a legalistic, intolerant, elitist, squealing bystander nation willing to turn on each other and turn each other in for the slightest offense, while being incapable of presenting a united front against the threats posed by the government and its cabal of Constitution-destroying agencies and corporate partners. You want to know why this country is in the state it’s in? The answer is the same no matter what the problem might be, whether it’s the Economy, Government Corruption, Police Brutality, Endless Wars, Censorship, Falling Literacy Rates, etc.: Every one of these problems can be sourced back to the fact that “We The People” have stopped thinking for ourselves and relinquished responsibility for our lives and Well-Being to a government entity that sees us only as useful idiots. We face an immense threat in our society from this drive to obliterate our history and traditions in order to erect a saccharine view of reality. In the process, we are creating a schizophrenic world for our children to grow up in, and it is neither healthy nor will it produce the kind of people who will be able to face the challenges of a future ruled by a totalitarian regime. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, you can’t sanitize reality. You can’t scrub out of existence every unpleasant thought or idea. You can’t legislate tolerance. You can’t create enough safe spaces to avoid the ugliness that lurks in the hearts of men and women. You can’t fight ignorance with the weapons of a Police State. What you can do, however, is step up your game. Opt for kindness over curtness, and civility over Censorship. Choose Peace over Politics, and Freedom over Fascism. Find common ground with those whose Politics or opinions or lifestyles may not jive with your own. Do your part to make the world a little brighter and a little lighter, and maybe, just maybe, we’ll have a chance of digging our way out of this hole. 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 >

Hallandale Beach VPK - Give Your Child A Great Start For This Fall’s School Year October 21, 2021 Share The City Of Hallandale Beach's Hepburn Center is located at 1000 Northwest 8th Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009 The City Of Hallandale Beach’s Hepburn Center is currently accepting enrollments for the Fall Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Education Program (VPK) and is located at 1000 Northwest 8th Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. Every child who turns 4 by Wednesday, September 1st, 2021 may be eligible for the FREE VPK. The daily, 4-hour program includes breakfast and lunch, with the option of an extended wrap care for a ONE TIME Annual Fee of $200 for Hallandale Residents and $400 for Non-Hallandale Residents. The full-day learning experience enhances your child’s school readiness. VPK enrolled participants will discover: • Safe, secure school environment • Experienced, credentialed teachers • Customized curriculum, lesson plans and learning experiences • VPK Star Program, which enhances VPK’s students with technology • Technology in the VPK classrooms help your child’s learning experience by featuring early math and literacy skills This is a FREE Pre-Kindergarten for all 4-year-olds, regardless of family income. The Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Education Program -- or VPK -- prepares early learners for success in Kindergarten and beyond. This program is funded by the State of Florida. VPK certificate must be obtained to apply. To be eligible, children must live in Florida and must be 4 years old on or before, Wednesday, September 1st, 2021, of the current school year. Effective July 1st, 2016, a new law lets parents whose children are born between February 2nd and September 1st of the calendar year, postpone enrolling their 4-year-old, until the following year when their child is 5 years old. The early childhood education team have created a program to provide a safe and enriched learning environment. Learn more about the City Of Hallandale Beach’s Hepburn Center’s VPK (4-Year-Old) Program by visiting our website today, at: https://cohb.org/34/Youth-Services Or call: (954) 479-1460. < Previous News Next News >