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City Of Hollywood Earns Perfect Score
A Call To Artists Dania Beach Is Evolving
In The 2023 LGBTQ+ Municipal Equality Index For Inclusivity
Experience a distinctive art & artisan marketplace in the heart of Dania Beach Established in 1904, the City of Dania Beach stands as Broward’s inaugural city and is situated just south of the Fort Lauderdale - Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades, and the Broward County Convention Center. With an expanding population of approximately 30,000 residents, Dania Beach is continuously evolving. As part of that evolution, The City of Dania Beach, in collaboration with the UniteUs Group, hosts its first annual Dania After Dark Art Festival (DADAF) to be held on Saturday, January 13th, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Dania Beach City Hall Plaza, 100 West Dania Beach Boulevard, Dania Beach, Florida 33004. This dynamic event will feature a diverse selection of artists from across the United States, creating a vibrant celebration of art and culture within the heart of the Arts, Entertainment & Innovation District. Sponsored by The Casino at Dania Beach, DADAF will transform Dania Beach City Hall Plaza into a haven for creativity, offering both outdoor and select indoor for participants. The event fosters a strong sense of community and contributes to the city’s vision for an arts and entertainment district. Dania Beach, Page 4A
My Hollywood Pride is the first Pride anywhere in the world each year
Singer-Songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and Innovative Director Rachel Chavkin (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812) is a love story for today... and always. Intertwining two mythic tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — Hadestown is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience that grabs you and never lets go. The Bank of America Broadway In Fort Lauderdale 2023/2024 Season is made possible with the generous support of Title Sponsor Bank of America and Presenting Sponsor Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale is presented by Florida Theatrical Association in partnership with Broadway
The City of Hollywood earned a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation’s 2023 Municipal Equality Index (MEI) for having programs and policies that are inclusive of the LGBTQ+ Community. Cities are rated based on Non-Discrimination Laws, the Municipality as an Employer, Municipal Services, Law Enforcement and Leadership on LGBTQ+ Equity. View Hollywood’s scorecard and the 2023 MEI Full Report. The City of Hollywood joins 129 other municipalities across the U.S. that earned perfect scores. In South Florida, the City of Hollywood joins Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park, Miami, and Wilton Manors. The HRC scored the City on LGBTQ+ focused activities in five categories – Non-Discrimination Laws, Municipality as an Employer, Municipal Services, Law Enforcement, and Leadership on LGBTQ+ Equality. Examples of City Initiatives that contributed to the perfect MEI Score include: • Under Part II, Municipality as an Employer, the City has received the full 6 points for Transgender-Inclusive Healthcare Benefits in 2021 and 2022.
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The Broward Center Kicks Off 2024 Legendary Musicians, A Broadway Blockbuster, Comedy And Family Theater & More The Broward Center and AEG Presents bring An Evening(ish) with Gary Janetti to the Amaturo Theater on Saturday, January 6th, 2024 at 8:00 p.m. The Writer and Television Producer of Family Guy, Will & Grace, Vicious and The Prince will read essays from his bestselling books Do You Mind If I Cancel? and Start Without Me. He will be highly caffeinated and promises to answer questions from the audience with hopefully entertaining responses. He will also be available to meet guests, take photos and sign books. A double bill of The Commodores and The Spinners gets 2024 off to a soulful start in the Au-Rene Theater on Sunday, January 7th, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. One of the greatest Motown/R& B/Funk artists of all time, The Commodores delivered hit after
hit, including: “Machine Gun,” “Sail On,” and “Brick House” garnering nine Grammy® Nominations and taking home the award for “Nightshift.” Sixtime Grammy® Nominees, The Spinners defined the smooth sound of Philadelphia Soul and topped music charts with the hits “I’ll Be Around,” “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love,” “Working My Way Back to You” and “Cupid.” Come see how the world could be when Broadway in Fort Lauderdale presents Hadestown in the Au-Rene Theater Tuesday, January 9th, 2024 - Sunday, January 21st, 2024. Welcome to Hadestown, where a song can change your fate. Winner of eight 2019 Tony® Awards including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show from celebrated
Titan Restoration Inc. Is A Company That Cares By Erika Cartwright
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“Toes In The Sand” Annual Celebration, 8A
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Broward Center From Page 1A Across America and the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Performance times vary. Get ready for a night of real Irish comedy, accent included, as the TRUISTComedy Series brings David Nihill: Shelf Help Tour to the Amaturo Theater on Thursday, January 11th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Having left Dublin, Ireland, where he was born and raised until the age of 22, Nihill got drunk on travel, living and working in 12 countries while visiting more than 70. His shows draw on his wide travels, cultural observations, attempts at language study, (occasional) international drinking session(s) and being a mildly confused immigrant. Nihill is the winner of the Prestigious Annual San Francisco Comedy Competition (previous finalists include Robin Williams, Ellen DeGeneres and Dana Carvey) and runner up in The Moth’s Largest U.S. Grand Slam Storytelling Competition. He recorded his debut special for Dry Bar Comedy in 2019 and has been featured on: www.TED.com - Amazon Prime Video, Sirius XM, NPR, Huffington Post, The Irish Independent and Ireland AM, among others. JM Family Enterprises presents the Smart Stage Matinee Series Performances of The Frog Prince in the Amaturo Theater on Friday, January 12th, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Family Fun performances will take place Saturday, January 13th, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. This fairy tale demonstrates why you shouldn’t judge anyone by their appearance and delivers an important message about treating everyone equally. These performances are recommended for Grades K-3 and support the ELA, SEL, Music and Dance Curricula. Just as she promised in her hit song, Karla Bonoff will deliver her music “Personally” in the Amaturo Theater on Saturday, January 13th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. The Singer-Songwriter’s hits include: “All My Life,” which won a Grammy Award for Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville and was ranked by People Magazine as one of the top five most popular wedding songs. Bonoff has toured with Bonnie Raitt, John Prine, J.D. Souther and others building up a passionate audience and delivering in sold-out houses. The TD Jazz Series brings accomplished Guitarist, Producer and Prolific Filmmaker Jesse Cook to the Amaturo Theater on Sunday, January 14th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Since playing all of the instruments on his debut release, Tempest, more than 25 years ago, Cook has created a musical legacy encompassing selling more than two million albums, recording five PBS specials, garnering more than 25 million views on YouTube and generating over 400 million streams of his songs. His 11th studio album, Libre, was chosen 2021 Album of the Year by JazzTrax and features his band’s unique brand of rhythm and rhumba. Grammy Award-Winning SingerSongwriter Judy Collins performs in the Amaturo Theater on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Through her performances and iconic 55-album catalog, Collins has inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs and a firm commitment to social activism. She is esteemed for her imaginative interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards and her own poetically poignant original compositions. Her stunning rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” from her Landmark 1967 Album, Wildflowers, has been entered into the Grammy Hall of Fame while her dreamy and sweetly intimate version of “Send in the Clowns” won “Song of the Year” at the 1975 Grammy Awards. American Rock Band Mr. Big comes to the Amaturo Theater as part of the
Broadway BroadwayininFort FortLauderdale: Lauderdale:Hadestown Hadestown
Jesse JesseCook Cook
Kansas Kansas“50th “50thAnniversary” Anniversary”Tour Tour Cleveland Clinic Rock Series on Thursday, January 18th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Mr. Big combined two popular musical trends of the Rock Scene in the mid- to late-80’s: a particular brand of Hard Rock focused on melodies and listener-friendly choruses together with an impressive technical proficiency, then called shredding. The group is best known for its hits “To Be With You,” “Just Take My Heart” and a cover of Cat Stevens’ “Wild World.” With a smooth blend of Country Music and Southern Rock, Multi-Platinum and Grammy® Award-Winning Zac Brown Band will light up the stage in the AuRene Theater on Saturday, January 27th, 2024 at 8:30 p.m. as part of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation’s “Toes in the Sand” Annual Celebration. Zac Brown Band has had Six Consecutive Albums reach the top 10 of the Billboard 200 Charts and Five Consecutive Albums Debut at number one on Billboard’s Country Albums Chart. With three Grammy Awards including Best New Artist in 2010, Zac Brown Band has sold more than 30 million Singles and nine million Albums, amassed over 11 billion Catalog Streams, achieved 16 number one Radio Singles and are the second act to top both the Country and Active Rock
Formats. Zac Brown Band currently holds the record for most consecutive sold-out shows at the iconic Fenway Park, and as a result, was inducted into the Fenway Music Hall of Fame in 2022, joining music icons Paul McCartney and Billy Joel. Presented by long-time Broward Center supporters Charles and Laura Palmer, the Annual Celebration begins with an exclusive cocktail reception, followed by dinner, the concert and an after-show party with DJ Laz with proceeds from the evening benefitting the education and enrichment programs at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets to the concert itself are also available. The Kansas “50th Anniversary” Tour of fan favorites and deep cuts that have rarely been played live comes to the AuRene Theater as part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series on Sunday, January 28th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Drawing from a legendary catalog of a half-century, the band will play such hits as “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind,” “Point of Know Return,” “Play the Game Tonight” and “Fight Fire with Fire.” This concert is generously underwritten by The LaBate Family. Also at the Broward Center in January are the Symphony of the Americas:
Trailblazers! On January 9th, 2024 - Gold Coast Jazz Society presents Tierney Sutton & Shelly Berg Trio on January 10th, 2024 Pavlo in Concert: The Santorini Tour on January 19th, 2024 and Quick2Love Foundation, Inc. Presents #AnniFLOetry on January 20th, 2024. 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: www.Facebook. com/BrowardCenter Education - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @Broward Center, subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with #BrowardCenter. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org
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5:00pm - 6:30pm - French Horn Collective
Dania Beach From Page 1A Event Highlights Glow-in-the-Dark Art Exhibit: Immerse yourself in an enchanting display of artwork that magically comes to life under the night sky. Mosaic Experience by De La Social: Participate in the mosaic wall, a collaborative photo adventure where on-site and Social Media photos are transformed into small tiles. These tiles are artfully arranged on the wall, gradually forming a larger and mesmerizing visual masterpiece. Distinctive Art and Artisan Marketplace and Light Projections: Explore a curated marketplace showcasing unique and diverse art and artisan creations, enhanced by captivating light projections. Live Music with Juanabe: Experience the sounds of Live Pop/Rock Music from the ‘80s, with influences from Legendary Bands like Police, Rush, The Cure, Van Halen, U2, and more.
Craft Cocktails and Beers, Food Trucks, Special Kid’s Zone: Delight in a variety of craft cocktails and beers, savor delectable offerings from local food trucks, and bring the whole family to enjoy specially curated activities in the special kid’s zone. Admission to the festival is free with convenient parking available at Dania Beach City Hall Plaza Parking Garage, 100 West Dania Beach Boulevard, Dania Beach, Florida 33004. The City of Dania Beach is also offering complimentary parking and shuttle service from Casino at Dania Beach located at 301 East Dania Beach Boulevard, Dania Beach, Florida 33004 to City Hall. These shuttles will run continuously from 3:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. Call To Artists Artists of various mediums are invited to be part of this inaugural celebration of creativity. The application deadline for artists is Friday, January 5th, 2024. Accepted works include: glow-in-the-dark pieces, paintings, drawings, sculpture,
7:00pm - 9:00pm - Juanabe mixed media, assemblage, rugs, tufting, jewelry, photography, leather, woodwork, wearable art and crafts. Artists from across the United States are welcome to showcase their talents in both outdoor and select indoor spaces. The event organizers prioritize the needs of the artists. Throughout the festival, complimentary water will be readily available and accessible under the Dania Beach Staff Tent. For any assistance or information, each artist will be furnished with the Event Manager’s cell phone num-
ber. Conveniently designated artist parking is located adjacent to the festival grounds. Please note that RVs will be accommodated at a nearby park, where they must park between the designated signs and be self-sufficient. Artist setup is scheduled for Saturday, January 13th, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., and the friendly and helpful staff will be on hand to provide guidance. Artists must provide their own tent, if a tent is needed, for pricing, please email to: andrew@uniteusgroup.com
For more information about DADAF and to apply as an artist, visit: www.daniaafterdarkartfestival.weebly.com - for additional event information. Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating art, community, and creativity at the Dania After Dark Art Festival.
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Las Olas Wine And Food Festival Fort Lauderdale’s Premier Charitable Wine And Food Experience Returns The 28th Annual Las Olas Wine And Food Festival will return to Fort Lauderdale’s famed Las Olas Boulevard on Friday, April 19th, 2024 from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The charitable event will delight even the most discernible palate with the best culinary offerings in South Florida. Sips and samples will be curated by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (Southern Glazer’s), the world’s preeminent distributor of Beverage Alcohol, which is back for its second year as the exclusive festival’s Wine and Spirits Provider. The festival is hosted by the American Lung Association, with proceeds going to support the organization’s lifesaving mission in Florida and beyond. “Southern Glazer’s is proud to once again sponsor the Las Olas Wine And Food Festival,” said Patrick Cassidy, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of Florida. “Not only is this an amazing platform to introduce consumers to wines and spirits from our world-class portfolio, but also an opportunity to join the local community in giving back to a meaningful cause.” Festival attendees will enjoy tempting bites from more than 40 top local restaurants and more than 200 Wines from International and Domestic Wineries. Onsite entertainment will include: Live
Music, DJ’s, dancing and interactive experiences. The full restaurant line-up will be announced in February. Last year’s Restaurant Partners included: 2 Korean Girls, Seminole Hard Rock’s Abiaka, American Social Bar & Kitchen, Big City Tavern, Bo’s Pub Las Olas, Bodega Taqueria, Casa Sensei, Chef Rose Jamaican Cuisine, Coyo Taco, Cuba Libre, Fireman Derek Bake Shop, Fogo de Chão, Frites Artois by Chef Roy Choi and Stella Artois, Grand Forno Pronto, Hollywood Donut Factory, I LOVE PANZEROTTI, Louie Bossi, New River Café & Bakery, Palm Room, Radiant 166, Rice Mediterranean Kitchen, Sushi by Bou, The Alchemist Café, Timpano and Yolo, among others. Additional experiences are back by popular demand and include a glimpse of Celebrity Cruises’ newest Edge class ships. and the crowd-pleasing Demesmin & Dover Block Party, from your favorite accident attorneys. Cadillac, the official auto partner of the festival, will bring their all-new luxurious line for guests to experience. Between tasty sips and savory bites, guests can hydrate with a refreshing LaCroix Sparkling Water. Did you know that here in Florida, more than 2.7 million people live with Lung
Disease, including Lung Cancer, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Asthma? The American Lung Association is the leading health organization working to save lives by improving Lung Health and preventing Lung Disease through research, education and advocacy. For the past 27 years, the community support of the Las Olas Wine And Food Festival has raised critical funding to help defeat Lung Cancer, improve the air we breathe, reduce the burden of Lung Disease on individuals and their families and eliminate Tobacco Use and Tobacco-Related Diseases. “The Las Olas Wine And Food Festival is one of South Florida’s area’s most unique festivals combining a must-do social event with raising critical funds for the lifesaving mission of the American Lung Association. We are delighted to return to Las Olas Boulevard this April and encourage the Florida foodie community to join us for a night to remember,” said Teresa Deasy, member of the Lung Association’s South Florida Local Leadership Board and Associate Vice President of Service Lines, Broward Health Medical Center. Deasy also serves as Chair of the Las Olas Wine And Food Festival.
This year’s event includes two ticket types: General Admission: $160 provides access to the main tasting pavilions from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and is All-Inclusive of Food and Beverage. VIP Admission: $250 includes the General Admission benefits along with the following upgrades: • Access to the VIP Kick Off Party, hosted by Florida Power & Light and Amerant, at the Riverside Hotel from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. • Access to the main festival tasting pavilions begins at 7:00 p.m., 30 minutes before the gates open to General Admission Ticket Holders. • A new elevated wine experience curated by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Details to be released soon. Purchase tickets early before they run out by visiting: www.LasOlasWFF.com Looking for the perfect holiday present? Use Code PRESENTS at check out to purchase two (2) tickets for $225. Limited quantities available. Las Olas Wine And Food Festival is also sponsored by the Las Olas Company, Memorial Healthcare System, Las Olas Association and the Blackstone Agency. The festival’s host hotel is the Riverside Hotel.
Stay up to date with festival announcements, specials and giveaways on Facebook and Instagram: @LasOlasWFF. For a complete line-up of events and ticket information, visit: www.LasOlasWFF.com - Or call: (954) 727-0907. See you at the 28th Annual Las Olas Wine & Food Festival!
The U.S. has spent trillions of tax dollars on endless wars
Free Speech was dealt one knock-out punch after another
Break The Cycle: In 2024 Say No To The Government’s Cruelty, Brutality And Abuse By John & Nisha Whitehead
“The greater the power, the more dangerous the abuse.” — Edmund Burke Folks, it’s time to break the cycle of Abuses—cruel, brutal, immoral, unconstitutional and unacceptable—that have been heaped upon us by the government for way too long. Here’s just a small sampling of what we suffered through in 2023. The government failed to protect our lives, liberty and happiness. The predators of the Police State wreaked havoc on our freedoms, our communities, and our lives. The government didn’t listen to the citizenry, refused to abide by the Constitution, and treated the citizenry as a source of funding and little else. Police Officers shot unarmed citizens and their household pets. Government agents— including local Police—were armed to the teeth and encouraged to act like soldiers on a battlefield. Bloated government agencies were allowed to fleece taxpayers. Government technicians spied on our emails and phone calls. And government contractors made a killing by waging endless wars abroad. The president became more imperial. Although the Constitution invests the President with very specific, limited powers, in recent years, American presidents have claimed the power to completely and almost unilaterally alter the landscape of this country for good or for ill. The powers amassed by each successive president through the negligence of Congress and the courts—powers which add up to a toolbox of terror for an imperial ruler— empower whoever occupies the Oval Office to act as a dictator, above the law and beyond any real accountability. The presidency itself has become an imperial one with permanent powers.
The cost of endless wars drove the nation deeper into Debt. Policing the globe and waging endless wars abroad hasn’t made America—or the rest of the world—any safer, but it has made the military industrial complex rich at taxpayer expense. The courts failed to uphold justice. Time and time again, the Supreme Court failed to right the wrongs being meted out by the American Police State. The Surveillance State rendered Americans vulnerable to threats from government spies, Police, hackers and power failures. Thanks to the government’s ongoing efforts to build massive databases using emerging surveillance, DNA and biometrics technologies, Americans became sitting ducks for hackers and government spies alike. The rich got richer, and the poor went to jail. This is no longer a government “of the people, by the people, for the people.” It is fast becoming a government “of the rich, by the elite, for the corporations,” and its rise to power is predicated on shackling the American taxpayer to a debtors’ prison guarded by a phalanx of politicians, bureaucrats and militarized police with no hope of parole and no chance for escape. “Show your papers” incidents skyrocketed. We are not supposed to be living in a “show me your papers” society. Despite this, the U.S. Government has introduced measures allowing Police and other Law Enforcement Officials to stop individuals (citizens and noncitizens alike), demand they identify themselves, and subject them to pat downs, warrantless searches, and interrogations. Free Speech was dealt one knock-out punch after another. Protest Laws, Free Speech Zones, Bubble Zones, Trespass
Zones, Anti-Bullying Legislation, Zero Tolerance Policies, Hate Crime Laws and a host of other legalistic maladies dreamed up by politicians and prosecutors conspired to corrode our core Freedoms, purportedly for our own good. On paper—at least according to the U.S. Constitution—we are technically free to speak. In reality, however, we were only as free to speak as a government official—or corporate entities such as Facebook, Google or YouTube—allowed. Police became even more militarized and weaponized. Despite concerns about the government’s steady transformation of Local Police into a Standing Military Army, Local Police Agencies continued to acquire weaponry, training and equipment suited for the battlefield. There are now reportedly more bureaucratic (nonmilitary) government civilians armed with high-tech, deadly weapons than U.S. Marines. Schools turned into prisons. So-called school “safety” policies, which run the gamut from Zero Tolerance Policies that punish all infractions harshly to Surveillance Cameras, Metal Detectors, Random Searches, Drug-Sniffing Dogs, School-Wide Lockdowns, Active-Shooter Drills and Militarized Police Officers, turned schools into prisons and young people into prisoners. The Deep State took over. The American system of Representative Government was overthrown by the Deep State—A.K.A. the Police State A.K.A. the Military Industrial Complex—a profitdriven, Militaristic Corporate State bent on Total Control and Global Domination through the imposition of Martial Law here at home and by fomenting wars abroad. When in doubt, follow the money trail. It always points the way.
The takeaway: Everything the founders of this country feared has come to dominate in modern America. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, if freedom is to survive at all, “We The People” must refuse to allow the government’s abusive behavior to be our new normal. There is nothing normal about Egregious Surveillance, Roadside Strip Searches, Police Shootings of unarmed citizens, Censorship, Retaliatory Arrests, the Criminalization of Lawful Activities, Warmongering, Indefinite Detentions, SWAT Team Raids, Asset Forfeiture, Police Brutality, Profit-Driven Prisons, or Pay-To-Play Politicians. Let’s not take the mistakes, carnage, Toxicity and Abuse of this past year into 2024. As long as we continue to allow callousness, cruelty, meanness, Immorality, ignorance, Hatred, intolerance, Racism, Militarism, Materialism, meanness and Injustice—magnified by an echo chamber of nasty tweets and governmentsanctioned brutality—to trump justice, fairness and equality, there can be no hope of prevailing against the Police State. 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
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City Of Hollywood From Page 1A • Under Part III. Municipal Services, the City provides funding to several groups and organizations who provide services to LBGTQ+ Youth and Young Adults. Here is a listing and applicable websites of the organizations who receive funding from the City: Covenant House: www.covenanthouse.org/homelessissues/lgbtq-homeless-youth and Women in Distress: www.womenindistress.org/wecan-help/emergency-shelter • On October 13th and October 14th, 2022, the City’s LGBTQ+ Liaison (Alison Saffold) attended the Florida Summit. • In the 2023 GFLGLCC Membership Directory and Community Guide, the City promotes itself as a welcoming place of equity, diversity and inclusion and has received a LGBTQ+ Municipal Equality Index Score of 100. • On January 29th, 2023, Hollywood hosted My Hollywood Pridefest in Downtown Hollywood. This event was promoted on Social Media, in our Eblast, and on the Electronic Billboard on I-95. • On June 7th, 2023 the City issued a Proclamation in Recognition of Pride Month and raised the LBGTQ+ Flag at City Hall for the entire month: https:// youtu.be/Cp71CX2NXoQ?si= TJ8IXFDqq1HE2jaq • In June 2023, the City’s LGBTQ+ Liaison (Alison Saffold) along with several Public Safety Employees attended the Multi-Agency LGBTQ+ Cultural Awareness Training.
SAVE THE DATE: My Hollywood Pride! Sunday, January 28, 2024 in Downtown Hollywood - 1pm - 6pm
The 2023 MEI rated 506 Municipalities of varying sizes drawn from every state in the nation. Municipalities were rated on criteria covering citywide NonDiscrimination Protections, Policies for Municipal Employees, City Services, Law Enforcement, and the city’s Leadership on LGBTQ+ Equality. This year, a recordbreaking 129 cities earned the highest score of 100. Learn more at: www.hollywoodfl.org under “Hollywood Happenings.” My Hollywood Pride 2024 Since the Inaugural “My Hollywood Pride” and the return in 2023, My Hollywood Pride has been a tremendous success. In 2023 they doubled their attendance and continued to lean into the ways in which My Hollywood Pride is different from most any other Pride. On Sunday, January 28th, 2024 they will be back on Hollywood Boulevard to greet you for the third edition of this annual tradition of inclusion.
SAVE THE DATE: My Hollywood Pride! Sunday, January 28th, 2024 in Downtown Hollywood - 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Because My Hollywood Pride is the first Pride anywhere in the world each year, they have chosen the theme “Pride Starts Here!” to guide them for 2024. Over the last couple of years, Florida has been a leader in Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation, and as a result LGBTQ+ People, especially the
youth, are the target of unfair and unequal treatment. LGBTQ+ People have long created their own chosen families in the face of adversity and marginalization. With that in mind, they are inviting you to join them as though they are welcoming you back to our home, and to remind everyone that we are stronger together. Their mission is to provide a space where everyone is welcome, and where you can feel proud to be who you are. And
it is in that space where you can laugh, dance and learn together. In 2024, they will continue to provide a place for kids, youth and families to come together, and also be a place that invites everyone in to learn more about LGBTQ+ Art and Culture, and where you can be celebrated. Find out more at: www.myhollywoodpride.com
SEE YOUR AD HERE To put Your Business in the Spot Light, call (954) 458-0635 and be Seen Now!
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE! Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell, to enforce a lien imposed on said property, under the Florida Self Storage Facility Act (Section 83.801-83.809)
at public sale by competitive bidding on www.storagetreasures.com ending on Friday January 12th, 2023 at 10:00am for units located at:
COMPASS SELF STORAGE 200 NW 79th Street Miami, FL 33150 - 305-759-7400 The personal goods stored therein by the following may include, but are not limited to the items listed below. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the time of sale. All goods are sold as is and must be removed at the time of purchase. Compass Self Storage reserves the right to refuse any bid. Sale is subject to adjournment.
All Units Listed Below Contain Household Items Annice Brice......................................58 Rodquita Jenkins............................123 Mamie Hernandez...........................209 Enite Saint-Lot................................215 Erika Morvah...................................229 Jose Alfredo....................................458 Joanglia Howard.............................723
Crystal Love....................................729 Kayshevia Brown............................733 Sindy Curiel....................................755 Marvell Washington.........................815 Othellot Petit Homme......................869 Markedia Johnson...........................935 Dennis Thaddeus............................936
Dry out • Water Extraction 24 Flood Clean Up Emergency Service
PLUMBING ISSUE?
(954) 923-9822
954-526-3986 (License #CGC1507349)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION OF PERSONAL PROPERTY NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE UNDERSIGNED WILL SELL, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FLORIDA SELF SERVICE STORAGE FACILITY ACT, TO SATISFY LIEN OF THE OWNER, AT PUBLIC SALE BY COMPETITIVE BIDDING ON JANUARY 9, 2024 AT 10:00 AM ONLINE AT: WWW.STORAGETREASURES.COM FOR THE SAFEGUARD SELF-STORAGE FACILITY LOCATED AT: SAFEGUARD SELF-STORAGE, 800 W. FLAGLER STREET MIAMI, FL 33130 (305) 324-1771
UNIT #1209 CHRISTOPHER LEE DOLAN Household Goods, Boxes, Furniture UNIT #1319 EBELIO LOPEZ PEREZ Household Goods, Boxes, Sporting Goods UNIT #1714 LAUREN ASHLIEGH JACKSON Household Goods
24 Hr Emergency Service
NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION OF PERSONAL PROPERTY NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE UNDERSIGNED WILL SELL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FLORIDA SELF STORAGE FACILITY ACT, TO SATISFY LIEN OF THE OWNER, AT PUBLIC SALE BY COMPETITIVE BIDDING ON
JANUARY 23, 2024 AT 10:30 AM ONLINE AT: WWW.STORAGETREASURES.COM
UNIT #2131 SARA GUILLEN Household Goods, Furniture, Boxes UNIT #2316 NELSON RAMON TORRES CRUZ Household goods, Boxes, Furniture UNIT #4220 KRYSTAL GREEN Household Goods, Boxes, Furniture UNIT #4414 MILTON P VEGA Household Goods, Boxes, Furniture, Toys UNIT #5206 ALOYSIUS JR JOHN Household Goods, Boxes, Furniture
FOR THE SAFEGUARD SELF-STORAGE FACILITY LOCATED
AT: SAFEGUARD SELF-STORAGE, 16701 Park Centre Blvd Miami Gardens, FL 33169 - (305) 620-2283
Boxes, Furniture
UNIT #2213 JOSE CASTILLO LEMUS Household Goods, Furniture, Boxes, Suitcases Toys, Sporting Goods, Appliances & Tools
Purchases must be paid at the facility with Credit Card or Cash. All Purchases must be complete within 48 hours of the end of the online auction. A $100.00 cash cleaning deposit is required until all items in the unit are removed from the premises and verified by the manager on duty. Sale subject to cancellation until the purchase is completed; company reserves the right to refuse any online bids.
Purchases must be paid at the facility with Credit Card or Cash. All purchases must be complete within 48 hours of the end of the online auction. A $100.00 cash cleaning deposit is required until all items are removed from the premises and verified by manager on duty. Sale subject to cancellation until the purchase is completed; company reserves the right to refuse any online bids.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION OF PERSONAL PROPERTY
NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION OF PERSONAL PROPERTY
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE UNDERSIGNED WILL SELL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FLORIDA SELF STORAGE FACILITY ACT, TO SATISFY LIEN OF THE OWNER, AT PUBLIC SALE BY COMPETITIVE BIDDING ON
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE UNDERSIGNED WILL SELL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FLORIDA SELF STORAGE FACILITY ACT, TO SATISFY LIEN OF THE OWNER, AT PUBLIC SALE BY COMPETITIVE BIDDING ON
JANUARY 9, 2024 AT 11:00 AM ONLINE AT: WWW.STORAGETREASURES.COM
JANUARY 9, 2024 AT 1:00 PM ONLINE AT: WWW.STORAGETREASURES.COM
FOR THE SAFEGUARD SELF-STORAGE FACILITY LOCATED AT: SAFEGUARD SELF-STORAGE, 2650 SW 28 LANE COCONUT GROVE, FL 33133 - 305-857-9730
FOR THE SAFEGUARD SELF-STORAGE FACILITY LOCATED AT: SAFEGUARD SELF-STORAGE, 17171 South Dixie Hwy. Palmetto Bay, Fla. 33157 - 786-573-3113
UNIT #4211 YADER ALEXANDER PAVON RIOS Tools UNIT #6307 JOSELIN YAHAIRA SOLINAS ESCORCIA Household Goods,
UNIT #7106 JHARLINNE RUSSEL MIRANDA Household Goods, Furniture, Boxes. UNIT #7406 SAMUEL REYNOSA Household Goods, Furniture, Boxes. Purchases must be paid at the facility with Credit Card or Cash. All purchases must be complete within 48 hours of the end of the online auction. A $100.00 cash cleaning deposit is required until all items are removed from the premises and verified by manager on duty. Sale subject to cancellation until the purchase is completed; company reserves the right to refuse any online bids.
UNIT #1401 DARREN LAMONT DAVIS Household Goods, Tools UNIT #2514 EMILY NEGRON Household Goods, UNIT #4210 MARQUISE ANTOINE ATKINSON Household Goods, Furniture, Boxes UNIT #4211 MARTHA MARIA SUAREZ Household Goods, Appliances, Boxes UNIT #4712 DERRICK ANTHONY WILLIAMS Sporting Goods Purchases must be paid at the facility with Credit Card or Cash. All purchases must be complete within 48 hours of the end of the online auction. A $100.00 cash cleaning deposit is required until all items are removed from the premises and verified by manager on duty. Sale subject to cancellation until the purchase is completed; company reserves the right to refuse any online bids.
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Photo credit: Craig Ambrosia
POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance-A Fantastical Book Becomes A Phenomenal Show This past holiday season, South Florida’s entertainment landscape was filled with a variety of cheerful happenings, colorful displays and traditional entertainment. There were Christmas attractions and standard holiday shows all around town. The highlight of the season for my family was the new book-to-stage-show premiere of POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstace at the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood. I hadn’t been to the Diplomat in a decade and thought it an unusual location for what was billed as a holiday cirque show.
Fortunately, there are creative minds like Neil Goldberg, who wrote the book, created the show, and invents new ways and places for the world to be entertained. Together with LA-based Capture Studio Group, the Diplomat was transformed with an abundance of imagination into a wondrous land of enchantment. Once inside the resort, the POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstace experience was like following the Yellow Brick Road into a Wonka Factory at Hogwarts. Imagine the Munchkins as charismatic Sprites, Oompa Loompas as the unexpected Santa’s drones and the Wizards as
spellbinding magicians of disbelief. Truly out of this world! The original production was cleverly based on the award-winning book’s story of three best friends, who study music, magic and circus at a secret university, where holiday preparations include lessons like - using your talents for good in this season of smiles, and by doing so makes life worthwhile. Worthwhile you ask? Categorically, yes, and undeniably gave us a lot to smile and cheer about. My kids read the book before seeing the show and even though the holidays
are over, can’t put it down or stop singing the songs. They were in awe, my wife and I thoroughly entertained, and my parents were surprisingly mesmerized. These people know how to put on a show! The talent was top-notch, original music joyfully contagious and the costumes like nothing we’d ever seen before. Add to the non-stop action a colossal setting surrounding a packed audience with imagery and special effects, and you’ve been transported into the POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance Universe, a place I can’t wait to take the family again.
Multi-platinum and Grammy Award-winning Zac Brown Band will perform Saturday, January 27 at 8:30 p.m.
“Toes In The Sand” Annual Celebration The Zac Brown Band Will Light Up The Stage This Month With a smooth blend of Country Music and Southern Rock, Multi-Platinum and Grammy® Award-Winning Zac Brown Band will light up the stage in the AuRene Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, January 27th, 2024 at 8:30 p.m. as part of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation’s “Toes In The Sand” Annual Celebration. Presented by long-time Broward Center supporters Charles and Laura Palmer, the Annual Celebration begins with an Exclusive Cocktail Reception at 5:00 p.m. in the Peck Courtyard followed by dinner in the Amaturo Theater at 6:15 p.m., the performance at 8:30 p.m. and an After-Show Party with DJ Laz Under The Stars at the Wendt Terraces and Huizenga Pavilion. Proceeds from the evening benefit the Education And Enrichment Programs at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. With the Celebration Dinner almost sold out, a limited number of Tables and Single Tickets for all the evening’s festivities are available. Tables of ten are $20,000 and $30,000. Single Tickets for the Celebration festivities are $2,500 per person. Additionally, there is a Special Party Ticket which includes Orchestra
Seating for the performance, the postshow party with DJ Laz and Complimentary Cocktails throughout the evening for $1,250 Per Person. Zac Brown Band has had Six Consecutive Albums reach the top 10 of the Billboard 200 Charts and Five Consecutive Albums debut at Number One on Billboard’s Country Albums Chart. With three Grammy® Awards including Best New Artist in 2010, Zac Brown Band has sold more than 30 million Singles and nine million Albums, amassed over 11 billion Catalog Streams, achieved 16 Number One Radio Singles and are the second act to top both the Country and Active Rock Formats. Zac Brown Band currently holds the record for most Consecutive Sold-Out Shows at the iconic Fenway Park, and as a result, was inducted into the Fenway Music Hall of Fame in 2022, joining music icons Paul McCartney and Billy Joel. “Zac Brown Band is one of the most dynamic groups performing today,” said Lisa Kitei, President of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. “They have sold out stadiums throughout the country, and we are thrilled to have them at our Annual Celebration. It’s through the gen-
erosity of our sponsors that we can bring them to the Broward Center.” In addition to “Knee Deep” Presenting Sponsors Charles and Laura Palmer, “Chicken Fried” Sponsors are AutoNation, Burdette Beckmann, Inc., Ann M. Burris, Linda Haller, Hudson Family Foundation, The Salah Foundation, S. Donald Sussman and Michelle Howland, Richard and Christine Welch, Gary Wendt, Weston Volvo Cars & Weston Nissan, and Mark and Linda Wilford. “Homegrown” Sponsors are Amazon, Stephanie Aoun and Robert Wagner, BBX Capital, Marty and Terri Cole, Leo Goodwin Foundation, Gunster, Northern Trust, Stiles, Joyce W. Virga, and Linda and Douglas Von Allmen. Spirits Sponsor is Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits; Program Sponsor is Starmark; and Invitation Sponsor is Associated Printing Productions, Inc. Sponsor listings are as of November 27th, 2023. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, call: (954) 468-3284. Or email: Foundation@BrowardCenter.org. Tickets to the performance only are now on sale and priced from $175. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing
service of the Broward Center, The Parker and affiliated venues. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462.0222 (Option#: 1). Or at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. Know who you are buying from when you purchase tickets. For nearly 40 years, the Broward Performing Arts Foundation has been instrumental in providing support for the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The Foundation was established in 1985 to deliver the required private funding to build the Center and create an endowment to sustain its operations. Over the years, the Foundation has successfully raised funds to support the Broward Center’s Innovative and Diverse Programming, Arts-In-Education Initiatives, Community Engagement Activities and Capital Projects. In 2021, the Foundation completed a $30 Million Capital Campaign to renovate and restore the iconic Parker Playhouse. Prior to this, it raised $60 Million to complete the Encore! Capital Campaign to renovate, renew and revitalize the Broward Center. For more info, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org
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Americans say they avoid uncomfortable money talk at work (68%), and more than half (56%) wish discussing salaries wasn’t taboo
Are You a Money Whisperer? New Study Reveals 6 in 10 Americans Don’t Talk About Money (BPT) - America, it’s time to have the money talk. According to research by Empower, a financial services company, 62% of people don’t talk about money. Mum’s the word with their family (63%), friends (75%) and even with their spouse/ partner (46%), though millennials and Gen Z are twice as likely to say they’re an “open book” compared to older generations (28% versus 13%). Many people would rather discuss politics (43%) and death (32%) than their finances (24%). It may be costing them their dreams. A majority of people believe more candid “money talks” have the power to change the world: 66% remark that open conversations can help people build generational wealth, improve the gender wage gap (62%) and over half say that money conversations could improve workplace transparency (56%). Carol Waddell, President of Empower Personal Wealth, says, “Conversation is a currency on the pathway to financial security, and open discussions about money can have a truly transformative effect on society. Our study shows people believe that clarity about their financial picture, talking to an advisor and financial education are key to achieving success.”
1. Growing up without money conversations Don’t talk about money: that’s the message half (52%) of Americans hear, learning it’s impolite to talk about finances (26%), and certainly not what you earn (35%). The taboo prevails for nearly twothirds (60%) of people who don’t feel
comfortable on the topic. Americans recall stowing away coins in a piggy bank (41%) but say many practical financial lessons weren’t discussed like the importance of having an emergency fund (31%), building good credit (30%), and managing debt (27%) - as kids or adults. This might explain why Americans tend to clam up when the conversation turns to money. While many received an allowance (36%), the majority (68%) were never taught how to manage a budget. Nearly a quarter of Gen Zers (23%) grew up in a household with a swear jar teaching about money and manners - yet 79% of all people say they never spoke about how much is “needed” to be financially secure. One in 5 (18%) Americans surveyed say they were raised with a YOLO money motto: “You only live once, so don’t worry too much about finances.” Despite the saying, more than a third (37%) say they regularly worry. That’s even higher for Gen Z and millennials (51% and 49%) and women, who are considerably more stressed about their personal finances than men (42% versus 33%). 2. Talking about money at work Figuring out personal finance is intimidating and overwhelming for half of Americans (48%), and when it comes to managing their money, 39% say they don’t know where to start, including 41% of women and 37% of men. Compare that with sky-high confidence managing money at work: 73% feel at ease oversee-
ing company budgets and the majority say they clearly understand their employer’s finances and performance (70%). Reassuringly, people have a strong grasp on employer benefits like the availability of their company’s 401(K) plan (80%) and say they know how their pay raises work (77%). Advocating for themselves is where it gets tricky. One-third (33%) of people don’t feel comfortable asking for an increase. Men feel more comfortable asking for a pay raise than women (74% versus 59%). Better market data on compensation could potentially boost negotiation confidence and nearly half (49%) of survey respondents (and a majority of millennials, 69%, and Gen Z, 71%) believe discussing salaries can lead to better career opportunities. Americans say they avoid uncomfortable money talk at work (68%), and more than half (56%) wish discussing salaries wasn’t taboo. Do you know how much your co-workers make? Just 19% of respondents say they’ve asked. But the workplace isn’t the only area Americans are staying quiet. People haven’t asked their friends (68%) or family (60%) either. Women are less comfortable talking about money with co-workers than men (36% women versus 50% men). That said, people may not be as shy as expected: 58% of millennials and 53% of Gen Z (and 34% of Americans overall), would share their salary information on their LinkedIn. What’s it amount to? According to 62% of respondents, open money conver-
sations could solve the gender wage gap. Americans say greater wage transparency would motivate employees to work harder (50%) and help avoid miscommunications (60%).
retired from his career in Project Management and concentrated on property development. He and his wife, Linda, refurbished several cottages in Southern France and built up a small holiday business before
selling up and returning to rural South Wales. They now reside in a self-built stone cottage along with three cats, a few thousand bees, whom they have not named; and several chickens. Two grown children and one grandchild live nearby.
3. Speak with an expert. More than three-quarters (77%) of Americans want to see society take on more “money talks” about ways to save for the future (41%), money mistakes they’ve made (36%) and basic financial literacy (34%). A quarter want more discussions about how to negotiate (26%) and pay for big expenses (24%). Even more open dialogue about the emotional aspects of money would be helpful for 20% of respondents. Ultimately, people believe more open conversations about money can have a truly transformative effect on society: 66% think it can help more people achieve financial freedom. So, how does America get there? Respondents agree that clarity about their financial picture (40%), talking to an advisor (36%), and financial education (34%) are key to achieving financial success. “In these challenging times, staying tight-lipped about money is something people can no longer afford. As part of our mission to advance financial freedom for all, we’re here to help people speak up and take the next step for a brighter financial future,” says Waddell. If conversation is a currency on the pathway to financial security, it’s time to start speaking up.
“The Execution” Documents Buried For More Than A Century Throw Doubt On Fate Of Condemned Man Patrick O’Donnell survived the seemingly unsurvivable — including the Great Hunger, the aptly nicknamed Coffin Ships and the infamous Typhoid Sheds — on his way to the hangman’s noose in December 1883. Having traveled from Ireland to the United States in search of a better life, Patrick O’Donnell sealed his grim fate when he committed murder, but there is so much more to his life than was ever revealed — until now. In his unforgettable new book, The Execution, Life and Times of Patrick O’Donnell, Author Gavin O’Donnell uses an epistolary technique to reconstruct the story of Patrick’s remarkable life using a series of letters purportedly written by Patrick as he awaited the hangman’s noose — letters smuggled from his death cell in his wife Margaret’s petticoats and that have remained undiscovered for 133 years. “There has always been a belief that we are related to a man named Patrick O’Donnell,” Gavin O’Donnell explained in an interview. “There is some evidence to support this but it’s patchy and not strong.… but it is the reason I took an interest in the man.” Gavin O’Donnell blends real world events, biographical information about Patrick and his own imagination to create a compelling narrative that follows Patrick’s path through the Great Hunger to the Typhoid Sheds of Quebec; from his service in the Confederate Army and capture at Chattanooga in 1863 to the grisly O’Donnell Massacre at Wiggan’s Patch, Pennsylvania; and ultimately to that fateful day off the coast of Port Elizabeth where Patrick put three bullets into James Carey,
and in so doing sealed his own fate and his place in history — but for the wrong reasons. “He was a real person, but how I draw him is how I imagine him to have been as he faced his lifelong challenges and as he sat in his death cell,” Gavin O’Donnell said. Included are accounts of letters of clemency sent to Patrick’s trial and indeed to Queen Victoria herself by Victor Hugo, (the great author but also well-known campaigner against capital punishment), and from U.S. President Chester Arthur. Interventions which hint at an extraordinary life for an Irish peasant. “History tells us that Patrick O’Donnell was hanged in Newgate Prison in December 1883 for the murder of James Carey,” Gavin O’Donnell added. “History, however, tells us almost nothing of his remarkable life. Was he a British agent, hero of Ireland or something else altogether?” About the Author Gavin O’Donnell grew up in Wales, Ireland, North Africa and England. A selective mute until age 5, he was unable to read properly at age 11 and was classified as “Educationally Sub Normal.” He studied Construction Management in Limerick, obtaining a degree, and later, at age 40, by way of distance learning, he obtained a Bachelor Of Law’s Honors Degree at Nottingham. While vacationing in Bordeaux in 1990, he and his wife lost their daughter in a fire, and their son was badly injured. Later diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and PTSD partly as a result of the trauma, he
For more information, please visit: https://www.patrickodonnell.uk Or: https://www.facebook.com/executionpatrickodonnell - Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/Execution-Life-Times-Patrick-ODonnell/dp/1399951327/
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2024 Will Be Filled With Opportunity Hallandale Beach Can Celebrate A Strong Fiscal Future Ahead By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper
Hope our readers are having a Blessed New Year! In Hallandale Beach the New Year will bring with it many opportunities that will continue to move our City forward and some that will need to be keenly followed. The first reason to celebrate is the strong Fiscal Future ahead of us in 2024. The hard work of our City Commission, City Manager and all of our Department Directors over the past years has paid off. As I have reported in past articles, we have stabilized our Budget with multiple strategies that took the courage of this
It is an Election year for Hallandale Beach City Commission. We have the Mayor Seat and two Commission Seats on the November Ballot. After discussions with my husband and family, I have decided to run for Re-Election. There are still many Projects and Issues that need to be focused on. Knowledge and experience will be critical to keep our City moving in the right direction. I am extremely excited that both Vice Mayor Anabelle Lima Taub and Commissioner Michele Lazarow have decided to seek Re-Election. The environment of collaboration and stability truly make a difference.
“Over the past 6 years, our City has had the most civil Commission in its history. Not only can we get the job done, our working relationships help to retain good management and a great working environment for all employees.” Commission. When the Budget needed to be passed Vice Mayor Lima Taub, Commissioners Lazarow and Adams kept true to our goals. We stood firm and stayed the course on our Five Year Stability Plan. We did not play Politics with our Votes. Due to these actions we are optimistic we can reduce our Tax Rate this year. While this is great news we still need to remain vigilant and watch all the Local, State and Global Trends that may impact this stability. The big issue this year that can change the course of Hallandale Beach and all levels of Government will be Elections. I know it seems like there has been a never-ending cycle of election reporting, but we all need to keep informed. It is a Presidential a year but there are many other Elections taking place on the State and Local Levels.
Over the past 6 years, our City has had the most civil Commission in its history. Not only can we get the job done, our working relationships help to retain good management and a great working environment for all employees. Qualifications are not until June. I encourage every reader to participate in the Local Races. We are the Government closest to the people and knowledge and experience does truly matter. The other trend is Developers who are looking to make Major Investments in our City. We have many Development Projects that are in the final stages of Approval. There are many that are under different Phases Of Construction. This includes some wonderful Affordable Housing Units. We have a Policy that any Developer who wants to build above the Existing Land Use Rights, must include an
Affordable Housing Component. The Commission has all agreed that the Inclusionary Housing Policy is vital where units are built as a mix of units on site. We have Amended our Comprehensive Plan to ensure we have all the resources in place so New Construction will not have an Adverse Fiscal Impact on our City and burden our Taxpayers. Over the next year we will be partnering with all Stakeholders to address the rewriting of our Codes. We are still having issues filling and maintaining positions in our Building Department. This trend is not only impacting our City but others that have been faced with the challenges of New Construction and the Forty-Year and Fifty-Year Safety Inspection Program. In Broward County’s Rules, Governing Inspectors, Plan Reviewers and Building Officials have set up an obstacle that no other county is facing. We are the only county that does not allow individuals to work in their respective licensed fields while working within Building Departments. As an example, I can have my License and Certification to do Plumbing work in the State. In MiamiDade County, I can have my Licenses run my business and also do Plan Reviews and Inspections, however, in Broward County, I cannot. This is even if the Project is located in Miami-Dade or Palm Beach Counties. I do agree that a person should not be reviewing their own Work or Company’s Projects. There is no reason why an individual could not do Reviews and Inspections. We will be going to the Broward County Board of Rules for an Appeal to reverse a dated interpretation from 2014. I look forward to working alongside our Commission and the County Commission
to change the Regulations on the State’s side through a Local Bill. State Legislators are also looking at changing Laws to help access qualified employees. Senator Pizzo is working to establish the ability to make it easier for any Licensed and Certified Contractor/Engineer or Architect to work in the State. To think you can design and build skyscrapers in New York but not do work in Florida is an obsolete concept. With all of the online technology this makes sense. We are on the right course when it comes to our Infrastructure. Many Projects have begun and there are plenty in the pipeline. The Commission just approved a Long-Term Road Resurfacing Contract. Our residents will begin seeing this work on roads not slated for underground work. Our goal will be to make sure we continue to focus on every aspect of implementation. One of the ongoing issues is Vacation Rentals. The State continues to preempt cities for Regulating these types of Rentals. They have been adversely impacting all of our cities and are not limited to simply one area or housing type. If you are aware of a rental that is not registered you can help us by reporting it. A new National Law took effect that does not allow LLC’s to be Registered Owners. This will go a long way to help us Regulate Properties. Not only for Vacation Rentals but for Code Violations as well. The biggest challenge in the coming year will be hiring and retaining qualified employees. The employee market since the COVID-19 Pandemic continues to be extremely competitive. We have taken measures to recruit and more importantly retain good employees. We continued to hire in many departments. I encourage our readers to visit our City’s website at: www.cohb.org - There may be an opportunity for you to work with our organization!
As always please feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place! I am available at: jcooper@cohb.org. Or: joycooper@aol.com. On my Office Number at: (954) 457-1318. Or on my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. You can always visit my Facebook and follow me at: Mayor Joy Cooper! Wishing You A blessed New Year!
Calling all Hollywood Entrepreneurs The FastTrac Application Portal Opens: January 8-31 (L) Participants will develop a clear business concept and learn many valuable skills (R) The FastTrac program culminates on Graduation Day with an exciting Pitch Competition The City of Hollywood is launching the 5th cohort of its free FastTrac Start-Up Program to assist entrepreneurs and business owners in Hollywood. Designed to guide early-stage entrepreneurs to launch a business, the FastTrac Start-Up Program also helps existing businesses develop a plan around new product lines and services. The program culminates on Graduation Day with an exciting Pitch Competition. The FastTrac Start-Up Program is in-person at no cost to participants. Participants will develop a clear business concept and learn how to: Identify market needs, Explore risk and success factors, Build a solid business plan, Create an elevator pitch, Understand business fundamentals, Network with entrepreneur professionals, Access business, financial and human resources. A past participant expressed their gratitude for the program and Economic Development team.
“I am humbled and honored with having been selected as one of the three finalists. I wanted to thank the Economic Development team for the guidance and advice throughout the FastTrac course, and equally important, you are providing me (and my team) the opportunity to receive access to a cadre of knowledge that will help our fledgling endeavor reach its potential.” – Adam Sugarman – Palmiche Healthcare Business owners with the top three business plans will compete for seed grants to launch their business! Space is
limited; the application window opens on January 8th. For more information, visit: www.ChooseHollywoodFL.com/FastTrac or call the City of Hollywood Office of Communications, Marketing & Economic Development at: 954.921.3620. How We Can The City Help Your Business? Nationally, over 70% of employment growth in a community comes from the
retention and expansion of existing businesses and Hollywood wants to hear from you! This annual survey and visitation program seeks to enhance communication between the City of Hollywood and the business community, introduce the community to contacts, and create opportunities for business owners to voice concerns and discuss future collaboration toward business retention and growth.
Business owners are encouraged to take a brief survey and will have the opportunity to request an in-person visit with City staff. Take the survey at: www.hollywoodfl.org/FormCenter/CMED-6/Business-Visitation-Program-Survey-321
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Titan Restoration From Page 1A For emergency services call 954-280-6950, technicians will arrive within the hour to begin the process of helping you get your life back. With services such as emergency packing and storing of salvageable belongings, following fire or flood, and standing water removal also available, they handle it all for you from AZ. The cost is most often fully covered by your homeowner’s insurance, leaving you with no worries about chasing down reimbursements from the insurance company. Face it, you have enough worries, this doesn’t need to be one of them. Titan Restoration Inc. works with all Florida homeowners’ insurance companies. To assess the situation Titan Restoration Inc. offers state-ofthe-art leak detection, using infra-red cameras. This allows for non-invasive, non-messy leak detection. No need to tear up dry wall or floors just to find the source of the leak. Once the leaks have been found, you will be referred to a trusted, licensed plumber. After the repairs’, State-ofthe-art specialized equipment is used to detect moisture levels in the air, dehumidifiers are placed in the affected area, and a Florida-licensed Mold Inspector will be sent to do a mold inspection. Samples will be taken of the air and mold. The specimens will be sent to their private laboratory for testing. This will determine which type of mold they are dealing with. Some molds are more toxic than others such as black mold, knowing the type, allows for proper precautions to be taken to ensure effective treatment and removal of the mold. Depending on the severity of the damages, drywall and flooring may need to be replaced to effectively rid your home or business of mold. Titan Restoration Inc. is a full remodeling and restoration company, specializing in kitchen and bath remodels, as well as a wide variety of other services. Throughout this process, Titan Restoration Inc. will be working with your insurance company every step of the way. You should never attempt to remove mold without a licensed professional, it is unsafe, and hazardous to your health. Mold thrives in dark, damp environments such as under the kitchen or bathroom sinks, in unventilated basements, and closed in laundry rooms. It can even be found behind drywall. Because of the heat and humidity which Florida is known for, it provides a perfect environment for mold to thrive. Vigilance is key when it comes to mold remediation. Bleach and paint alone will not eliminate the problem, only hide it, allowing it to grow unseen and spread. This causes more damage to your home and health over time. People and pets all respond differently to mold and mildew. For some, it may be watery eyes, itchy throat, cough, or skin irritation. Confusion, disorientation, and even hallucinations can also be signs of mold exposure. For others, exposure to mold can cause very serious, even life-threatening health problems. When it comes to your health and the safety of your loved ones, trust the experts at Titan Restoration Inc. to have you breathing easier, in a mold-free environment. Once the mold has been identified, the mold remediation process begins. Titan Restoration Inc. will dry out the affected area
To assess the situation Titan Restoration Inc. offers state-of-the-art leak detection, using infra-red cameras, no need to tear up dry walls or floors just to find the source of the leak. Whether the water damage in your home or business was caused by a leaking pipe, roof, or major flood.
(L) Once the mold has been identified, the mold remediation process begins. They will dry out the affected area using fans and dehumidifiers (R) Since mold spores are airborne and invisible to the naked eye it is necessary to deep clean the air ducts, carpets, furnishings, and upholstery
Titan Restoration Inc. is a customer-friendly company that also specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling. using fans and dehumidifiers. Followed by thoroughly cleansing and sanitizing the affected areas using antimicrobial agents effective for mold-eliminating and prevention. HEPA- air purifiers are used to capture any airborne mold spores, leaving you with clean air. Green cleaners are used for mildew removal. Since mold spores are airborne and invisible to the naked eye it is necessary to deep clean the air ducts, carpets, furnishings, and
upholstery. Homeowners’ insurance covers the cost in most cases following water damage. These services are offered yearround, and it is recommended to have these done once a year to remove allergens, bacteria, dirt, and grime buildup that occurs naturally over time. These services are recommended more frequently if you have pets, suffer from allergies, or are a smoker, to ensure peace of mind and healthier living. After the repairs
are completed and your home or business is restored to its preloss condition, a Florida statelicensed Mold Inspector will be sent out to do a final inspection, to ensure all mold concerns were effectively eliminated. Titan Restoration Inc. takes pride in providing the best service experience to its customers from start to finish. Their goal is to have your property back to its pre-loss condition while taking the stress off you.
Titan Restoration Inc. is a customer-friendly company that also specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling from drywall and baseboards to cabinetry and flooring. It is not necessary to have damage to your home, to call on Titan Restoration Inc. for all your remodeling needs. For a free estimate call: 954-280-6950, now offering 10% off a $350 service for out-of-pocket customers.
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Start The New Year With A Laugh Embrace the dawn of a new year with a symphony of laughter, melody, and a splash of theatrical charm as Island City Stage sets the stage ablaze with their eagerly anticipated event: Curtain Up with the Amazing Charles Baran. Promising an evening brimming with vivacity, Broadway trivia, sensational performances, and captivating tunes, this affair invites South Florida’s theater devotees to immerse themselves in an enthralling extravaganza. Scheduled for January 8, this special event is a prelude to Island City Stage’s forthcoming production, ‘Which Way to the Stage’ by Ana Nogueira. An enticing blend of playful comedy and profound exploration, the play orbits around Jeff and Judy, avid Broadway enthusiasts whose camaraderie spans from their collegiate days. Their encyclopedic knowledge of the theater world intertwines with their personal aspirations of treading the boards. However, as the narrative unfurls, the duo’s facades unravel, uncovering their vulnerabilities and insecurities. ‘Which Way to the Stage’ magnifies themes of friendship, ambition, and a poignant contemplation of gender, sexuality, and drag. Under the direction of Michael Leeds, the production
stars an ensemble cast featuring Matthew Buffalo as Jeff, Sofia Porcel as Judy, Clay Cartland as Mark, and Gaby Tortoledo in the multifaceted roles of Actress, Bachelorette, and Casting Director. Their performances promise to weave a tapestry of emotions, injecting life into the narrative’s intricate layers. The festivities commence on Monday, January 8, at 7 p.m. within the hallowed halls of Island City Stage located at 2304 N. Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, FL 33305. Generously sponsored by Dr. Deborah Floyd, the event is a testament to the vibrant cultural tapestry flourishing in South Florida. Mark your calendars and join in the fun for an unforgettable rendezvous, where the harmony of theater, music, and camaraderie unite to create an evening filled with enchantment and wonder. Tickets for this jubilant evening are priced at $10 each, a nominal fee for an experience that guarantees an escape into the mesmerizing world of Broadway charm and entertainment. Tickets can be conveniently purchased at: https://bit.ly/ICSCurtainUp For further inquiries: (954) 928-9800 Or: islandcitystage.org
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