United Way Broward Expands Their Senior Resources With United For Seniors Online Platform & App Jewish Connection News Oct 23, 2025 United Way Broward’s Coalition On Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention Is Proud To Announce The Expansion Of Their Seniors’ Services And Resources With United For Seniors, The First Free Online Platform Designed To Help Older Adults Feel Connected, Supported, And Engaged. Initially Launched In September 2024 As A Pilot Program For The Hispanic Community, The Platform Is Now Fully Available In English And Spanish, Providing An Inclusive And Welcoming Space For Seniors, Their Families, And Caregivers. Broward County, home to 1.9 million residents, faces significant challenges for its older adult population. The bilingual platform addresses the unique needs of Broward’s growing senior population, where 24% of residents - more than 462,000 people - are aged 60 or older. Social isolation, particularly among seniors, is linked to serious Mental Health issues, while limited mobility and rising costs can prevent older adults from participating in community activities. United for Seniors bridges these gaps with a simple, welcoming online community that empowers seniors to connect, learn, and thrive. The platform provides a vital, accessible solution helping older adults stay active, socially connected, and supported in their daily lives. The United for Seniors App can be downloaded on Google Play, in the Apple App Store, or by visiting: www.unitedforseniors.org. Once downloaded, the platform allows users to: • Chat and connect with peers in safe, interest-based groups • Access expert tips and advice on health and wellness • Participate in fun, enriching activities and workshops designed specifically for seniors • Join informative monthly webinars and receive guidance that supports both seniors and their caregivers. The platform also features a robust search tool, making it easy to explore a wide range of previously recorded webinars by topic and interest. This is free, easy to use, and designed to make seniors feel at home online. “United for Seniors started as a way to bring culturally sensitive support to our Hispanic seniors, and we are thrilled to now expand its reach to the broader community,” said Maria Hernandez, Chief Impact Officer for United Way Broward. “This platform is a lifeline helping seniors connect with one another, access resources, and remain engaged in ways that truly enhance their quality of life.” The pilot program was launched in September 2024 with support from prominent local figures, including Maria Celeste Arrarás, a three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and television host and Laurie Jennings, an Emmy Award-winning news anchor. Their involvement is helping drive strong adoption among Broward’s seniors. United for Seniors quickly expanded its reach and by August 2025, surpassed 1,000 registered users. Building on this success, United Way Broward’s Coalition plans to introduce the platform to additional community partners throughout Broward County and United Way affiliates across the country, making it a model for senior engagement nationwide. Older adults, families, and caregivers can join the community by visiting: www.unitedforseniors.org. Membership is free and the platform is designed to be simple, welcoming and easy to use. About United Way Broward United Way Broward mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. True to our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our community, United Way is there. For more than 85 years, United Way Broward has brought a comprehensive approach to every challenge, actively listening and responding to local needs. Our reach across the communities in Broward County means we can share innovations and scale impact to improve lives in collaboration with our donors, volunteers, corporate and agency partners. From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, we’re working towards a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential. To learn more, visit: www.UnitedWayBroward.org . About United Way Broward’s Coalition on Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention United Way Broward’s Coalition on Behavioral Health and Drug Prevention is a broad-based substance misuse prevention and mental health promotion coalition dedicated to reducing negative consequences on individuals, families, and communities. Today, its primary role is to serve as a coalition-building organization that brokers partnerships between federal, state, and local agencies to foster, develop, and enhance integrated behavioral health efforts throughout Broward County, while searching for innovative and effective ways to address the issue of substance misuse. Coalition on Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention is a vital component of United Way Broward’s four impact areas (strengthening local resilience, advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security) focused on the solutions to close gaps in services and create a better life for all. For more information, please visit: www.drugfreebroward.org - Or follow us on Social Media at: www.facebook.com/uwbcoalition - Or on Twitter/Instagram: @UWBCoalition. Laurie Jennings, Emmy Award-winning news anchor Maria Celeste Arrarás, a three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and television host Previous Next

Migration At The Aventura Film Series: Get Ready To Beat The Heat With A Family-Friendly Film Screening! June 20, 2024 Share As the summer sun continues to blaze, finding ways to escape the sweltering heat becomes a top priority for many families. Luckily, the City of Aventura has a film series featuring Migration from Illumination, the creative minds behind beloved animated hits like Minions, Despicable Me, Sing, and The Secret Life of Pets, has just the solution to beat the heat and keep the whole family entertained. Get ready to embark on an adventure like no other with Illumination's latest original comedy, Migration. Packed with action, humor, and heart, this animated film promises to take audiences on a feathered family vacation they won't soon forget. Migration follows the story of a family of ducks with big dreams of the perfect getaway vacation. Led by Mack, the overprotective father, the family finds themselves longing for an escape from the familiar confines of New England. However, Mack is hesitant to take the risk of traveling all the way to Jamaica, fearing the unknown dangers that may lie ahead. But when Mack's adventurous kids, Dax and Gwen, push him to seize the opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the stage is set for a journey filled with laughter, surprises, and valuable life lessons. From navigating the bustling streets of New York City to overcoming unexpected obstacles along the way, the family must band together to make their dream vacation a reality. A Free Family Event Mark your calendars for Sunday, August 4th, 2024, because Migration is coming to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center for a special free screening! Presented by Illumination, this event offers families the chance to escape the summer heat and enjoy a fun-filled day at the movies. But remember, tickets are required for entry, and seating is limited to the first 330 guests who reserve a ticket. Be sure to secure your spot through Ticketmaster or in person at the Box Office to guarantee your place at this exciting event. And don't worry if you miss out on a ticket initially – a standby line will be available, with additional guests admitted based on available seating. Reserve your seat online at: https://www.aventuracenter.org/events/detail/film-migration The fun doesn't stop with the film screening – the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center has plenty of amenities to make your day even more enjoyable. Arrive early to explore the lobby, which opens at 10:00 a.m. and take advantage of the delicious snacks and beverages available for purchase. For those looking to streamline their snack experience, pre-order a "Snack Pack" and save $5 off the concession stand prices. Each Snack Pack includes a choice of bottled water or soda, along with a selection of tasty treats to munch on during the movie. And don't forget about the little ones – lap tickets are available at the Box Office for children 12 months and under, ensuring that even the youngest members of the family can join in on the fun. Whether you're a fan of animated comedies or simply looking for a way to beat the summer heat, Migration promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for the whole family. So gather your loved ones, reserve your tickets, and get ready to laugh, cheer, and embark on an adventure unlike any other. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to escape into the world of Migration – we'll see you at the movies! Tickets Tickets are required for these free screenings. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Reserve 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. 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 >

Invitation From The Consul General Of Israel In Miami To Go On A Mission To Israel With European And North American Mayors - Part IV By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper Aug 6, 2026 After Leaving Shalva National Center We Continued On Our Tour Of The Old City. While This Was My Third Trip, The Experience Never Ceases To Amaze Me. The Vibrance, The History And Just The Feeling Of Stepping Back In Time. It Was Also Interesting To Go On Tour With People That Were Seeing The Old City For The First Time. What was great about this trip, it was not focused on a particular religion but the religious significance and history of Jews and Jerusalem being the indigenous people. Our first part of the walking tour was in what is known as the Christian Quarter. Here is the location of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. It is also known as the Church of the Resurrection and built encompassing the location of where Jesus was crucified and buried. Known as Calvary and the location of Jesus’s empty tomb. This church actually houses the last 5 stations of the Way of Sorrow. There are 14 stations where Jesus stopped and Roman soldiers forced him as a form of mockery. The church actually houses many religions. The three religions that control the site are Armenian, Greek Orthodox, and Catholic. There is always ongoing controversy due to who controls the maintenance and the actual security. I should mention at no time did we ever feel unsafe. It is a custom to secure its borders, its state as well as its municipalities. As I mentioned in the first article, every city is tied into the state of Israel’s security systems and operations. Not only will you see the stations of the cross you will actually look below and actually see the rock of Calvary. You can visit stations 10 – 14 and can actually see where Mother Mary, Jesus’s mother, comforted him and he was taken down and the tomb where Jesus was laid after being taken down. Interestingly enough another place that is housed within the church is actually a Tabernacle where you can actually enter and look down to the old ancient ruins. This particular Tabernacle on my last visit we were unable to access as it was in disrepair, and they were actually fixing it. While we were there, they were still finishing and cleaning the oriental exterior of the Tabernacle. The entire building is awe inspiring. It was not a holiday, so it was quiet, but many visitors were coming to see this historic site. We continued through the ancient city to see some of the old ruins of King David and the original city underground. The final stop was the Western Wall of the second Temple. Beneath this is the actual first temple and proof Jews lived in Judea and Samaria as Indigenous people. Jews do not like to use that term as it is actually a prayer wall. People go to pray for help but also to give thanks. There has always been controversy surrounding this wall as it is divided between men and women in the tradition of Original Jewish law. Just like in Christianity there are multiple sects of Judaism. The traditional Hasidic, conservative, and most liberal reformed Judaism. Men and women actually are to be separated within the temple. The temple was preserved for men to study Torah. During holidays women are separated and typically with the children. Reformed men and women join in the congregation at temple together during services and festivities. The wall is the biggest gathering spot globally for Jews to come. There is limited space for access. When we were there the woman's side was quite full. When Jews visit this site, they actually go to touch the wall and say a prayer to God. They also leave a note and tuck it into the stones. It was amazing to see so many young women praying together and even just sitting and reflecting. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit me on my Facebook page at: Mayor Joy Cooper. Like! Follow! And share! Previous Next

Jury Duty Scams On The Rise: There Are Ways To Tell If You Are Dealing With An Imposter July 6, 2023 Share Attorney General Ashley Moody is issuing a Consumer Alert Warning Floridians about an increase in Jury Duty Scams. In these scams, an imposter will call a target about missing Jury Duty, then threaten the potential victim with jail time if a fine is not paid. A recent news report from Miami-Dade County states that authorities there are seeing an alarming number of Jury Duty Scams. Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “This scam is so troubling because the scammer on the phone will threaten a victim with potential jail time if a fine is not paid. Floridians should know that failing to report for Jury Duty is not grounds for immediate arrest, and Court Officials will never demand payment over the phone. By being aware of how to avoid this increasingly common scam, we can build a Stronger, Safer Florida.” To Avoid Jury Duty Scams, Floridians Should Know That: A Jury Duty Summons will never be delivered over the phone; it will always come via mail. Also, Officials will not call regarding a Summons if a person did not receive a Summons in the mail. Court Officials will not demand payment over the phone, nor ask that payment be wired or made through a Gift Card. A tell-tale sign of a Jury Scam is a caller aggressively demanding payment over the phone, personal or financial information should never be given to strangers, especially over the phone. Caller IDs may be spoofed to appear to be coming from a Law Enforcement Agency or other Government Entity, so be cautious of Caller ID—even if it looks like a real source. If there is a Valid Jury Duty Issue, contact a Local Court Clerk's Office directly, for The Miami Dade County Clerk of Courts call: (786) 828-5879. For the Broward County Clerk of Courts, call: (954) 831-6091. Depending upon where the caller states they are calling from. If you have any doubt, call the Florida Attorney General’s Office at: 1 (866) 9NO-SCAM, 1 (866) 966-7226. The Florida Bar reminds Floridians to be cautious over the phone and remember that an Authentic Jury Summons will only ever come in the mail from the United States Postal Service. Report suspected Jury Duty Scams to Law Enforcement, as well as to the Local County Clerk’s Office using the Florida Clerk's Website. Anyone who may encounter an imposter trying to orchestrate a Jury Duty Scam can File a Complaint with the Florida Attorney General’s Office Online at: www.MyFloridaLegal.com Or by calling: 1 (866) 9NO-SCAM, 1 (866) 966-7226. < Previous News Next News >

U.S. Department Of Justice Task Force On Antisemitism Announces 14 City Tour In Address To Zionist Organization Of America Delegation Jewish Connection News Jun 18, 2026 Speaking Tuesday Evening To Zionist Organization Of America (ZOA) Delegates Ahead Of The Group's Annual Advocacy Mission In Washington, D.C., U.S. Department Of Justice Task Force On Antisemitism Chair Leo Terrell, Esq. Announced The Launch Of A 14-City Tour To Fight Antisemitism. “Antisemitism is local. It’s a failure of prosectors to prosecute. It's a failure of teachers when they teach antisemitism in schools,” said Terrell. “We are bringing the message that either they prosecute or we will file a lawsuit against them.” “Fighting antisemitism is a 24/7 commitment. I am there for you, the Justice Department is there for you and President Trump is there for you,” he added. “Leo Terrell will go down in history as the best friend of the Jewish people,” said Zionist Organization of America National President Morton Klein. “We were honored to have him join us tonight and bring his important message to us on the eve of our Washington Mission.” Founded in 1897, the Zionist Organization of America is the oldest pro-Israel organization in the United States. The ZOA works towards strengthening U.S.-Israeli relations through educational activities, public affairs programs, advocating on Capitol Hill, and by combating anti-Israel bias in the media, textbooks, and on campuses. The ZOA is dedicated to educating the public, elected officials, media, and college/high school students about the truth of the ongoing and relentless Arab-Islamic war against Israel and the Jewish people. For more information, visit: www.zoa.org . U.S. Department of Justice Task Force on Antisemitism Chair Leo Terrell, Esq. with ZOA National President Morton Klein. Previous Next

Damar Hamlin Matters To You: Is Sudden Death Occurring More Commonly Thu Jan 26 2023 17:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Genetic Connection To Kidney Disease: How Kidney Disease Can Impact You, Your Kidneys And Your Family Wed May 15 2024 16:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Holiday Classics, Music And Laughs Part 2 - Fun Is Waiting To Be Unwrapped This December At The Parker Thu Dec 05 2024 19:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Slow Burn Theatre Company Presents "Parade": A Story Of A Newlywed Jewish Couple, Who Are Struggling To Make A Life In The Old Red Hills Of Georgia Photo Credit Broward Center for the Performing Arts Feb 18, 2025 Slow Burn Theatre Company presents “Parade,” a powerful and poignant musical revival based on the true story of the trial and lynching of Leo Frank, as part of its 2024/2025 Season supported by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale through Sunday, February 23rd in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Winner of the 1999 Tony awards for Best Score, Jason Robert Brown, who also wrote the lyrics and Best Book of a Musical, Alfred Uhry as well as the 2023 Tony for Best Revival of a Musical, “Parade,” co-conceived and directed on Broadway by Harold Prince, follows a newlywed Jewish couple, Leo and Lucille Frank, who are struggling to make a life in the old red hills of Georgia. When Leo is accused of an unspeakable crime, it propels them into an unimaginable test of faith, humanity, justice and devotion. Hailed as an “an essential American musical” by Variety, “Parade” is a “phenomenal production that feels more poignant and powerful than ever,” according to Entertainment Weekly. Time Out New York writes, “What you hear at this Parade…will echo for a long time to come.” Directed by Slow Burn Theatre Artistic Director and Carbonell Award winner Patrick Fitzwater and presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), Slow Burn’s riveting and gloriously hopeful production features lead actors Justin Albinder* (Leo Frank) and Mikayla Cohen (Lucille Frank) joined by Kevin Patrick Martin* (Hugh Dorsey), Michael Hunsaker* (Britt Craig), Erik Schark* (Judge Roan/Old Soldier), Jessica Balton (Mary Phagan), Joel Hunt (Frankie Epps), Kareema Khouri* (Minola “Minnie” McKnight/Angela), Chaz Rose* (Newt Lee/Jim Conley/Riley), Michael Materdomini (Governor John Slanton), Landon Summers (Tom Watson/Detective Starnes), Ana Marie Calise (Mrs. Phagan), Nolan Montgomery (Young Soldier/Fiddlin John/others), Bridget Rose Pirrota (Iola Stover), Erica Gouldthorpe (Monteen/others), Sofie Poliakoff (Essie/others), Allyson Rosenblum (Sally Slanton), Steven Ross-Dybash (Mr. Peavy), Eli Jacobson (Officer Ivey/others), Austin Gladstone (Luther Rosser/others), Elizabeth Sackett (Nurse/others), Sam Hoffman (Mr. Turner/others) and Sara Sun Park (Nina Formby/others). The creative team features direction and musical staging by Fitzwater joined by Music Director Travis Smith, Lighting Designer Eric Norbury, Scenic Designer Nikolas Serrano, Costume Designer Rick Peña, Technical Director Timothy Dickey, Production Stage Manager Jeffry George* and Assistant Stage Manager Jolie Rubinchik*. Single tickets to Slow Burn Theatre’s 2024/2025 Season are on sale now. Supported by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale, the season continues in the new year with “Something Rotten!” from Saturday March 29th – Sunday, April 13th and “The Bodyguard The Musical” from Saturday June 7th – Sunday, June 22nd. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222; in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Like us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter - And at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @BrowardCenter. Subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter - And join the conversation with #BrowardCenter . Major support of Slow Burn Theatre Company is provided by the Broward County Cultural Division, the Cultural Council and the Broward County Board of County Commissioners. Sponsored in part by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale. Student and community complimentary tickets are subsidized and underwritten by the Salah Foundation and the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation. The Broward Center 2024/2025 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or visit Slow Burn Theatre Company’s website at: http://slowburntheatre.org/ Previous Next

‘A Journey Through Life’ - This New Book Inspires Readers To Rewrite Their Story Through Faith, Resilience And Personal Growth Aventura Digest Sep 17, 2026 What If The Most Difficult Seasons Of Life Could Become The Foundation For A More Joyful, Peaceful And Purposeful Future? In Her Debut Book, “A Journey Through Life” (Published By Balboa Press), Stephanie Sivadge Delivers A Heartfelt Message Of Hope, Reminding Readers That Every Person’s Story Matters, Every Journey Has Value, And Meaningful Transformation Is Possible For Anyone Willing To Learn And Grow. The inspiration behind the book began when Sivadge retired after a successful 38-year career as a cosmetologist. Unsure what the next chapter of her life would hold, she began working with a life coach — a decision that completely changed her perspective. Inspired by her own transformation, she became a certified life coach, attended wellness retreats, immersed herself in personal development, and discovered a passion for helping others navigate life’s challenges. That journey ultimately became the foundation for this book. “A Journey Through Life” is all about hope. Combining personal stories with coaching principles, biblical encouragement, and reflective exercises, the book explores topics including resilience, emotional healing, healthy relationships, faith, and self-discovery. Each chapter concludes with thoughtful questions designed to help readers examine their own beliefs, choices, and life experiences while encouraging intentional steps toward lasting change. The central message is simple: life’s journey is rarely easy, but growth is possible for those willing to learn, adapt, and move forward. Sivadge's wish is that readers will leave the book believing they are capable of creating a more joyful, peaceful and purposeful life — and then use their own experiences to encourage others. “I completely changed myself and some of my not-so-great personality traits. If I can do it, anyone can,” the author states. “A Journey Through Life” By Stephanie Sivadge Hardcover | 6 x 9in | 168 pages | ISBN 9798765270714 Softcover | 6 x 9in | 168 pages | ISBN 9798765270721 E-Book | 168 pages | ISBN 9798765270707 Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble About the Author Stephanie Sivadge is a Certified Life Coach, Speaker, Founder of Journey Ahead Coaching, and Creator of Synergy Women's Circles. Inspired by her close relationship with God and a lifelong passion for helping others, she transitioned from a 38-year career as a cosmetologist into coaching women toward greater emotional wellness, resilience, and purpose. Through coaching, wellness retreats, extensive personal study, and decades spent building meaningful relationships with clients, she has developed a compassionate approach to helping others navigate life's challenges. Sivadge has been married to her husband, Dan, for 35 years, and together they have four children and seven grandchildren. She enjoys writing, reading, hiking, hot yoga, traveling, and spending time at the beach. “A Journey Through Life” is her debut book and the first of what she hopes will be many. For more information, visit: www.JourneyAheadCoaching.com . Previous Next

Understanding, Awareness, And Safety - Inside Sunny Isles Beach’s Autism Outreach Program South Florida Sun Times Jul 10, 2025 The Sunny Isles Beach Police Department Has Always Been Progressive And Community-Minded, As Part Of That Mindset Is Its Autism Outreach Program — A Dedicated Initiative Aimed At Enhancing Safety And Communication For Residents With Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In A World Where Understanding Neurological Diversity Is More Critical Than Ever, This Program Is A Significant Step Toward Inclusive Policing That Emphasizes Preparedness, Compassion, And Effective Response. The Autism Outreach Program recognizes that traditional emergency response protocols don’t always account for the unique behaviors and communication styles of individuals on the Autism Spectrum. What might seem like noncompliance, confusion, or even aggression in a high-stress encounter with law enforcement could, in reality, be signs of sensory overload, limited verbal communication skills, or anxiety. The department’s outreach program works proactively to address these gaps through preparation, awareness, and a strong community connection. At the heart of the initiative is a voluntarily maintained database of individuals with ASD who live in Sunny Isles Beach. This confidential registry is managed by the Communications Unit of the police department and is designed to provide officers with critical information before arriving on scene. When a call is dispatched to a residence or a vehicle connected to someone in the database, officers will be alerted ahead of time that a participant of the program may be involved. That foreknowledge helps responding officers tailor their approach—often slowing down interactions, modifying their tone, and focusing on de-escalation strategies. The significance of this kind of preparation cannot be overstated. By knowing who they’re about to assist, and understanding their communication needs or behavioral tendencies, officers can reduce misunderstandings, prevent unnecessary escalations, and foster a sense of safety and trust. Participation in the Autism Outreach Program is voluntary and designed to be as straightforward as possible. Family members or caregivers fill out a detailed form with relevant information about the person with Autism—such as preferred methods of communication, sensory sensitivities, and identifying behaviors. This form is then securely submitted to the police department’s communications unit. Importantly, the department handles all data in accordance with Florida Public Records law, with protections in place to ensure that confidential or exempt information is not disclosed to the public. This balance between public safety and personal privacy is a core principle of the program, assuring families that their loved one’s information will be respected and protected. To further assist officers in identifying individuals with ASD during traffic stops or emergency calls, the department offers specially designed decals for use on vehicles and residences. These decals act as quiet, visible alerts—subtle but important signals that someone with Autism may be present inside the car or home. Vehicle decals are intended to be placed inside the bottom left-hand side of the rear window, on the driver’s side. For homes, the decals are best positioned on the front door or a front-facing window. These decals help bridge the communication gap when verbal explanation might be difficult or impossible during a crisis. They prepare officers, paramedics, or firefighters to approach the situation with appropriate expectations and strategies. The decals can be picked up free of charge at the police department’s records window in the Sunny Isles Beach Government Center during standard weekday business hours. The initiative ensures access is easy and inclusive, removing logistical barriers to participation. Enhancing Safety Through Empathy and Awareness The most profound benefit of the Autism Outreach Program is its impact on safety—not just in the immediate physical sense, but emotionally and psychologically for both residents with Autism and their families. For caregivers, having their loved one registered with the department can offer peace of mind. Knowing that officers will respond with knowledge, patience, and understanding helps ease the fear that a misinterpreted behavior might lead to a negative or even dangerous outcome. For officers, the program is a valuable resource. It doesn’t just add data to their systems—it adds insight. When law enforcement professionals are trained and informed about Autism, their effectiveness increases. Their ability to assist, protect, and de-escalate is strengthened, and their relationships with the community grow more trusting and collaborative. The initiative also reflects a larger, growing movement across the country—police departments adapting their practices to meet the needs of neurodiverse citizens. These efforts stem from increased public awareness, calls for reform, and a collective commitment to equity in public service. Currently, the Autism Outreach Program is available exclusively to individuals who reside within the city limits of Sunny Isles Beach. Programs like this one set a new standard for how law enforcement agencies can—and should—interact with vulnerable populations. They demonstrate that safety doesn’t just come from enforcement, but from understanding. Real community policing isn’t about power; it’s about partnership. And by investing in initiatives like the Autism Outreach Program, Sunny Isles Beach Police Department is building a community where every resident, regardless of their neurological makeup, can feel seen, safe, and respected. Families or individuals interested in enrolling can request additional information or begin the registration process by emailing: autism@sibpd.net . (Photo Credit: www.sibfl.gov ) City of Sunny Isles Beach Autism Awareness Program badge Previous Next

Supreme Court Sides With ZAKA Legal Affairs Unit - The Project Dignity Of Deceased After Fatal Jerusalem Nursery Tragedy Jewish Connection News Feb 12, 2026 Following The Tragic Deaths Of Two Infants At A Jerusalem Nursery, ZAKA Search & Rescue’s Legal Affairs Unit Played A Central Role In Safeguarding The Dignity Of The Deceased And Representing The Families During A Sensitive And Legally Complex Process That Rose To Israel’s Supreme Court. Immediately after the incident, as authorities began to investigate the fatalities, ZAKA’s Legal Affairs Unit was asked by the families to provide legal guidance and representation. From the outset, the unit ensured that investigative procedures would respect Kavod HaMeit, the obligation to preserve the dignity of the deceased. When the Israel Police and State Attorney’s Office petitioned the Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court for full invasive autopsies, ZAKA’s Legal Unit made the case to the court that preliminary medical assessments already indicated the likely cause of death and should be accepted in lieu of invasive procedures. Despite this, the Magistrate’s Court approved the autopsies. Within hours, ZAKA filed an urgent appeal to Israel’s Supreme Court, exhausting every legal avenue to preserve Kavod HaMeit. At the Supreme Court hearing, ZAKA’s team, led by volunteer Attorney Dror Shosheim and Legal Affairs Unit Coordinator Michael Gutwein, presented an alternative framework balancing investigative needs with human dignity. The high court overturned the lower court ruling, ordering no autopsies be completed and emphasizing the importance of preserving the infants’ dignity while releasing their bodies for burial. “This decision reflects not only religious law and legal reasoning, but human sensitivity,” said ZAKA’s Legal Affairs Unit Coordinator Michael Gutwein. “Our role is to stand beside families at the most painful moment of their lives and ensure that their children are treated with respect and care, even after death.” Throughout the process, ZAKA coordinated with rabbinic authorities and forensic professionals, including Rabbi Asher Landau and the staff at the Abu Kabir Institute of Forensic Medicine, exploring non-invasive investigative alternatives. The Legal Affairs Unit also guided families through the legal system, explaining proceedings and ensuring their voices were heard. “ZAKA exists to protect dignity where it is most vulnerable,” said ZAKA CEO Dubi Weissenstern. “Our Legal Affairs Unit ensures that even in the most sensitive and complex investigations, families are not left alone and dignity is preserved.” “Our Legal Affairs Unit is a critical tool in ZAKA’s holy work of Kavod HaMeit,” added ZAKA U.S. Executive Director Moshe Rozenberg. “In this case our incredible volunteers, who are attorneys who have dedicated themselves and volunteered their time to stand by families in their darkest hours, were able to prove to the court that the tools exist to bridge both investigative needs and preserving the dignity of the deceased.” Founded to honor the dead in accordance with religious tradition, ZAKA has evolved into a full-scale emergency response network, with over 4,000 trained volunteers operating 24/7 across Israel to honor the dead, aid the living and bring dignity in times of devastation. Today, it operates a wide range of units – from rapid medical response and search and rescue to water recovery to culturally sensitive burial teams serving Israel’s Jewish, Bedouin, Arab and Druze communities to international units deploying at a moment’s notice to crises across the globe. For more information, visit: https://zakaworld.org/ . ZAKA Ambulance at High Court of Justice Previous Next