Sun Times Issue 06 20 24

STEIBS/COHEN BUYING EVENT

Camp is fun, full of exciting activities and always looked forward to by all kids!

With the school year coming to a close, many children are now looking forward to going to camp, while some parents are on the fence. They’re not sure if there’s enough value in camp to justify their investment. Afterall, to run a proper camp is not cheap. Especially with the new inflation on everything, think of what it costs just for eggs! Besides, for some children, they’ve gotten used to and are actually happy to hide behind a mask. In addition to basic social reasons, here’s some food for thought for those parents that may be on the fence.

Camp is the most special time of a child’s year. In a way, it’s the most educational part of their year. Unlike school, where kids are in learning mode and not always excited to go school, camp is fun, full of exciting activities and always looked forward to by all kids! They’re in a great mood and ready to soak things in!

Many kids who have a difficult time memorizing what they learn in school, have a much easier time memorizing camp songs

At War With The Weather

Hallandale Beach Was Hit Hard By A 1000 Year Storm...Again

By

“Last year when we had the “Thousand Year Storm” everybody was really taken off guard, no one expected a repeat so soon after that event.”

Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper

First and foremost, I want to send my thoughts and prayers to those that have lost their belongings and are dealing with repairing their homes.

This battle started on Monday with the prediction of 3 to 5 inches of rain. City Manager

Earle notified our commission and team that our operational plans were being executed in light of the predictions. Our staff when a rain event is announced mobilizes. Just like at war. The

team goes to check on the drains and the equipment. Once again without any warning the 5 inches turned into 20 within less than 24 hours and Hallandale Beach became the epicenter!

This storm was not declared a National Emergency. We were the first city to declare an emergency at 2:30 p.m. The county followed suit around 6:00 p.m. and then the State. This declaration provides funding relief only to the city. It provided emergency equipment and reimbursed cities for operational costs. Sadly, unless there is a loss of 1,000 homes per county FEMA will not provide homeowner assistance.

woman Wasserman-Schultz and Senator Rick Scott who both were sympathetic. State Representative Marie Woodson also reached out. The SBA does have business relief but only for commercial properties.

State Senator Pizzo has been amazing. He along with State Emergency Director Guthrie were in our City working with our Staff. Vice Mayor Anabelle Lima Taub also was extremely proactive during the storm. As of Tuesday, Senator Pizzo was requesting through powers in state law to leverage relief from the Florida Emergency Management Relief Foundation FEMAF to help homeowners. Last year when we had the

Knowing this information, on Thursday morning I called the Red Cross. They began to mobilize. I heard from Congress- Weather, Page 6A

The City Of Sunny Isles Beach

Messages From Mayor Svechin & Commissioner Stuyvesant

www.sibfl.net history, a time which will be documented and later studied by students in grade school.

“I’m excited to announce the launch of the SIB Community Conversations Series: Family Edition” Fabiola Stuyvesant, Sunny Isles Beach Commissioner.

Larisa Svechin, SIB Mayor - It is important for each of us to stand up for our principles and support what we value. As a country and a city, we revere Democracy, Freedom Of Religion, the value of the First Amendment, and the United States Constitution. As citizens, we support all that proliferates these values. It is time to take a stand. We are at a crossroads in

This month, I am traveling to Israel for a conference with the Combat Antisemitism Movement Organization to learn about building a stronger city, to visit our sister city of Netanya, and witness the carnage of October 7th. Following October 7th, I along with the City Commission immediately condemned terrorist organizations like Hamas and we supported Israel’s right to defend itself. Could we do more? Given that college campuses across the country are burning the U.S. Flag, wearing terrorist garb, and chanting to end the only demo-

cratic state in the Middle East, as well as all Jews, understandably Jews in this country do not feel safe.

We are a community made up of over 100 countries, as well as many ethnicities and languages. Our diversity is strong. Now is the time to support your neighbors who may not feel as secure as they did before October 7th. If you see bigotry and hate towards Jews, do NOT stay silent. Silence is complacency. There is not a single group which has not been harmed at some point in history. The difference now is that we have access to more information than ever, and regrettably, more falsehoods.

The Next Generation

Lt. J.G. Brandon Frantz, a native of Pembroke Pines

Lt. J.G. Brandon Frantz, a native of Pembroke Pines, Florida, is serving in the U.S. Navy assigned to Training Squadron (VT) 21 where Naval Aviators learn the skills they need to fly missions around the world. Frantz joined the Navy three years ago and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2021.

“I always wanted to join the Navy even as a child because I was infatuated with Naval Aviation,” said Frantz. “I always knew I wanted to fly but wasn’t sure how I would be able to. Growing up in Fort Lauderdale on the beach, I just knew in one way, shape, or form, that I eventually would because I always wanted to be an aviator. I set up an appointment with the Navy and started on my journey.” Skills and values learned in the Navy are similar to those found in Pembroke Pines.

“My parents instilled in me that your name and reputation leave a lasting impression on everyone that you meet,” said Frantz. “You need to treat people the way that you want to be treated. I grew up in South

to G-d.

Take the time to reassure your elderly neighbors wearing “Jewish Stars” that you are there for them. Next time you see a family of observant Jews walking on Friday night or Saturday during the day, nod to them— acknowledge their commitment

Sunny Isles Beach, 7A

By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil

By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach

Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper

Four Reasons NOT To Sell Florida Real Estate “Furnished” - Part 2

By Christopher Carter - Real Estate Broker Associate

Last week’s article discussed valuation concerns when a real estate contract includes furniture or other personal property being sold with a house or condominium. Today we are reviewing additional transaction costs that personal property contributes, then suggesting a few ways for it to remain in a residence without causing financing and Appraisal problems or adding unnecessary costs.

If you missed Part 1, take a look before starting today’s article. Here is a direct link: Four reasons NOT to sell Florida real estate “Furnished” - Part 1: https:// www.southfloridasuntimes.com/news/ four-reasons-not-to-sell-florida-realestate-%22furnished%22---part-1

State Transfer Taxes - “Doc Stamps” Florida imposes a .7% Documentary Stamp Tax on “Documents that transfer an interest in Florida real property, such as deeds...” The term comes from the days when actual stamps were affixed to handwritten Deeds, verifying that the appropriate transfer tax had been paid.

Florida transfer tax on the signed Deed is calculated on the sale price (the consideration) exchanged between buyer and seller of a house or condo. When the sale closes, this tax is collected by the closing attorney or title company and paid to the local County Clerk who then forwards it to the Florida Department of Revenue.

Example - on the sale of a $400,000 house or condominium, Florida documentary stamp tax due is $2,800.

For details, here is a direct link to the FLDOR webpage on Doc Stamps: Florida

Florida around diversity and people from all walks of life. It’s helped me with camaraderie and respecting everyone. I also learned to never give up. I went to a high school with reduced lunches. Knowing that people in high school had never made it to the U.S. Naval Academy helped me become a better person and strive for more.”

Today, Frantz serves as a student pilot assigned to VT 21, a U.S. Navy Strike Jet Training Squadron located at Naval Air Station Kingsville, Texas.

“I enjoy being surrounded by a lot of “Type A” personalities who are never complacent and try to be better than they were yesterday,” said Frantz. “Being around that makes you a better person.”

The Aviation Squadron’s primary mission is to train future Naval Aviators to fly as well as instill leadership and officer values, Navy officials explained. Students must complete many phases of Flight Training to graduate, including Aviation Preflight Indoctrination, Primary Flight Training and Advanced Flight Training. After successfully completing the rigorous program, Naval Aviators earn their coveted “Wings of Gold.”

After graduation, pilots continue their training to learn how to fly a specific aircraft, such as the Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet Fighter Attack Jet, the F-35 Lightning Strike Fighter Jet or the SH-60 Seahawk Helicopter. These aircraft take off from and land on Navy Aircraft Carriers at sea.

Navy Aircraft Carriers are designed for a 50-year service life. When the air wing is embarked, the ship carries more than 70 Attack Fighter Jets, Helicopters and other Aircraft,

Department Of Revenue - Documentary Stamp Tax (https://floridarevenue.com/ taxes/taxesfees/Pages/doc_stamp.aspx)

Most Florida real estate purchase contracts establish “Doc Stamps on the Deed” as a Seller closing cost, though remember that just about everything in real estate is negotiable. The important point is that the sale will NOT close (nor ownership transferred) until someone pays for State Doc Stamps.

When furniture and other personal property are included in the sale price and purchase contract, either the Buyer or Seller will unnecessarily pay real estate transfer tax (Doc Stamps) on the additional value. Even when personal property is not specifically itemized or mentioned in the contract, the higher sale price of a furniture-included deal increases the amount of transfer tax due.

Important - Nothing in this article is suggesting the avoidance of legitimately owed taxes. The intent is to help readers realize how personal property sold with real estate affects transaction costs at closing, and property taxes going forward.

Annual Property Taxes

Anyone buying a house or condo Furnished or Turnkey already knows they are paying more than if the same property was empty and Unfurnished. Whether or not there is a document itemizing, describing, and valuing the furnishings, all parties involved understand that additional consideration is being exchanged when real estate is sold Furnished or Turnkey.

With some basic adjustments, the sale

price for a recent transaction becomes the new Assessed Value for that house or condo’s annual property tax bill. Additional furniture value in the sale price increases the property’s new Assessed Value from the County Property Appraiser’s Office. When Assessed Value starts higher, it continues higher with annual taxable value and/or millage rate increases.

Higher sale price = Higher Assessed Value = Higher annual property taxes

Here’s a link to an earlier article on property tax basics: Florida Property Taxes - a quick introduction for new owners: (https://thefloridarealestateblog.com/ f/florida-property-taxes---a-quickintroduction-for-new-owners)

State Sales Tax (yes, really)

This is a 5th reason why personal property should not be included in real estate sales.

According to The Florida Department Of Revenue, furniture and personal property sold with a house or condo constitute tangible personal property. As such, it is subject to State sales tax when ownership is transferred from one owner to another for “a consideration” (money).

When furniture or other personal property is mentioned in a real estate contract (or an addendum/amendment to the contract) and a monetary value is attached, it is taxable at Florida’s current 6% sales tax rate. Some Counties levy an additional sales tax (surtax) on personal property which can range from .5% to 1.5%.

This means that if a contract, addendum, or amendment mentions, describes,

and/or values the furnishings and personal property remaining in the house or condo, the Seller is responsible for collecting the tax due and sending it to the Seller-side real estate licensees create a taxable situation when they attach written inventories of included personal property to an MLS listing, then to a sales contract as an addendum. When the attached inventory list indicates a price or monetary value, someone in the deal can be held responsible for paying State sales tax on the personal property’s sale price - usually

So...how do you address all these reasons NOT to include personal property in the sale of a house or condo...while still leaving furniture a Seller doesn’t want to remove, and a Buyer might want?

• When the property is first offered for sale, the MLS listing and other public marketing should indicate the house or condo is offered with furnishings Negotiable, not Furnished or Turnkey. This sets the stage for a separate agreement and reinforces the asking price as being for the real estate only. Don’t force potential Buyers to take the furniture by only offering the residence

• Have a Plan B ready (donation, garage sale) for when a Buyer makes an offer you like, yet insists on taking the residence Unfurnished and empty.

• Do not price a house or condo to include any value for furniture and furnishings a Seller wants to leave there “for convenience.” Price it based on current market conditions, property features and upgrades, and recent comparable sales.

• When Buyers do want the furniture with a residence, draft an agreement in a completely separate document, NOT an addendum to the contract. In the agreement, do not refer to the property or the real estate contract. When you have questions about drafting a personal property agreement, speak with a Florida-licensed attorney.

• When establishing a price (not value) for the furniture and personal property that stays, do not itemize on the separate agreement. Use an overall “bulk” price for everything. And be reasonable with the price. Unrealistically low (or high) pricing in the personal property agreement will raise questions to its validity.

Here we are - a quick overview of some reasons why it is very important to keep personal property completely separate from real estate when selling or buying a Florida house or condominium residence. Each real estate deal is unique, so there will be specific considerations and negotiations that apply to your transaction.

Before making financial or legal decisions regarding a real estate sale or purchase, speak with your tax/financial advisor and a Florida-licensed attorney.

Editor’s Note: Christopher Carter is NOT an attorney. He does not give legal advice. For interpretation and application to specific circumstances of anything you read in this article, you must speak with a Florida-Licensed attorney.

Have a question or comment about anything you see here, if so, visit: www.TheFloridaRealEstateBlog.com

Training Squadron located at Naval Air Station Kingsville, Texas.

Today, Frantz serves as a student pilot assigned to VT 21, a U.S. Navy Strike Jet

Steibs/Cohen Buying Event

ART: old oil paintings, old watercolors, old etchings, lithographs, old movie posters, cartoon art, & more! STATUES: old bronze, carved jade, wood, marble, alabaster, pottery, porcelain.

OLD TOYS: old toys, trains, old comics and baseball cards (prior to 1960), old Japanese toys, robots, old banks & old dolls. ORIENTAL ITEMS: jades, statues, figurines, netsuke, old swords, oriental glass and porcelains.

HISTORICAL ITEMS: letters, autographs (movie stars, presidents, political, etc.), old photos, political pins and ribbons, old fountain pens, old pocket knives, swords, military items, American, Japanese, German medals, advertising items, old stamps, old badges (police, fire, military).

All Things Gold, Silver, Sterling & Platinum Jewelry

We buy all types of Gold Jewelry, new, old, and broken. Rings (class rings, mother’s rings, wedding rings, etc.) Bracelets (charm, tennis, bangles, etc). Earrings do not need to be a matching pair. Chains and Pendants, broken is ok. We even buy old Yellow Gold teeth and crowns. Brooches, company year pins. We buy Diamonds, Emeralds, and Rubies. Any item made out of Sterling Silver. Silverware, forks, spoons, bowls, dishes, trays, tea sets, statues, Sterling and .999 Bars, Sterling and .999 Rounds, frames, candle sticks, trophies, salt and pepper shakers and Jewelry. Broken and smashed is ok.

Old or New Jewelry • Broken, Antique, & Costume Jewelry • Engagement Rings • Charms, Pins & Chains • Gold/Silver Bars • Sterling Silverware • All Things Gold/Silver • Belt Buckles • Old Clocks • Glassware • Cut Glass • Depression Glass • China • Waterford Crystal • Crystal Items • Hummels • Royal Doultons • Oriental Rugs & Glass • Russian Enameled Items • Cartoon Art • Old Banks • Old Crocks • Old Door Stops • Old Pottery Items • Oriental Pottery • Oriental Glass • Old Advertising Items • Old Carousel Figurines • Buck Rogers Items • Old Disney Items • Cigar Store Indians • Slot Machines • Old Coin Operated Machines • Currier & Ives Prints • Old Prints • Paintings • Collector Prints • Old Fire Department Items • Flash Gordon Items • Whirligigs • Wood Carvings • Antique Lamps • Old Dolls • Old Teddy Bears • Old Bird Decoys • War Memorabilia • War Models • War Pictures • War Weaponry • Old Knives • Old Swords • Old Stamps • Autographs • Old Letters • Old & New Tools • Automobiles • Entire Estates

Icons

Old Ink Stands

Leaded Windows • Old Beer Steins • Old Judaica • Tiffany Items

Lone Ranger Items

Old Maps

Old Globes • Old Paperweights • Old Napkin Rings • Old Nautical Items

Old Pictures • Old Powder Horns • Old Quilts

Old Fountain Pens • Old Weather Vanes • Old Perfume Bottles

Lladro Statues

Vintage Native American Items/Artifacts • Swarovski • World’s Fair Items • Vintage Foreign Paper Money

June Is Family Pride Month

Join In The Celebration at The Museum of Discovery and Science

You belong here! Enjoy an inclusive day of colorful exploration during the Museum of Discovery and Science’s (MODS) Sixth Annual Family Pride Day Celebration on Saturday, June 29, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is FREE for families at this allages special event, sponsored by Bank of America, BBX Capital, The Our Fund Foundation and UKG.

“The Museum of Discovery and Science is proud to offer inclusive pro gramming and a welcoming environment to explore, create and investigate the wonders of science on Family Pride Day,” said Joseph P. Cox, President and CEO of MODS. “We invite the community to this free admission day to experience our new exhibits, IMAX® films, lab-based STEAM activities and animal ambassadors in an accepting and nurturing space designed to ignite the imagination.”

Families enjoying the special programming can:

• Participate in a Rainbow Science Lab, make-and-take Pride flags, create colors with prisms and design rainbow tie-dyed T-shirts.

• Experience an explosion of colors with a Pride KaBOOM! Show.

• Meet MODS’ resident animal ambassadors.

• Meet partners and friends of the LGBTQ+ community in action.

• Join the Baby’s First Pride celebration, where the littlest revelers can grow their own rainbows, engineer 3D rainbows with colorful MAGNATILES® and explore rainbow monotype printmaking.

“Bank of America joyfully partners with MODS for another colorful Family Pride Day to celebrate diversity and inclusion in our community,” said Lori Chevy, President of Bank of America Fort Lauderdale. “As a sponsor of this annual event, we are committed to supporting all of South Florida’s diverse families.”

being at the forefront of the Museum’s everyday experiences. For more information about MODS’ Family Pride Day, please visit mods.org/familypride.

“The Our Fund Foundation is proud to partner with MODS to celebrate the diversity of our region and the acceptance of the tapestry of families that make South Florida the accepting community that it is,” said David Jobin, President and CEO

us to celebrate and support the vibrant, diverse families in South Florida, fostering a sense of belonging and allyship that aligns with our core values.”

The Museum of Discovery and Science Founded in 1976 as the Discovery Center, today the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) is at the forefront of science education, innovation and explo-

Broward, selected by the LEGO Foundation as one of only 15 museums nationwide to join the Playful Learning Museum Network and awarded the prestigious 2023 IMLS National Medal for Museum Service.

The Museum celebrates diversity and welcomes visitors from all walks of life. The Museum hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 town at 401 SW Second Street, Fort

“BBX Capital is proud to partner with MODS for its upcoming Pride Day at the Museum,” said Lois Marino, executive Director of BBX Capital Foundation and Director of Community Engagement, BBX Capital Inc. “Celebrating Pride means standing in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing the pro gress made towards equality, and remembering the work that still needs to be done.”

MODS is known as a family-friendly community connector, with inclusivity

Summer Adventure

From Page 1A

and every silly skit & shtick they see in camp. They remember it with every hand movement, detail & nuance. The same kid who’s failing school is excelling in camp!

For this reason, The Rebbe established the first Camp Gan Israel in N.Y. 68 years ago, with the goal to capture the best of the child’s year and infuse it with good character traits and a noninvasive education that kids look forward to.

Gan means a garden - a pleasurable place to spend time and where things grow. Israel, in addition to being the name of all Jews, is also the name of the founder of Chassidim, the great Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov. Thus, Camp Gan Israel (CGI or Gan Izzy as it’s lovingly known) is a garden where kids grow in every way, from learning how to be a mensch to the proper way for a Jew to tie his shoes. Between overnight camps and day camps, today there are over 500 Camp Gan Israels, with close to a quarter of a million campers attending this summer!

For our local Camp Gan Israel in Highland Lakes, activities include: Swimming, Cooking, Sports, Arts & Crafts, Boating, Survival, Crazy Science, Kabala 101, Team Building, Field Trips & Tons of Fun!

When Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov was a child of five years old, his father said to him: “My son, have no fear from anyone, except G-d. Love every Yid, whoever he may be and however he may be, with all the fire of your soul!” These two thingsThe Rebbe taught - fear of G-d and love of our fellow man, accompanied the Baal Shem Tov throughout his life and was the guiding force to his holy work. And it’s these 2 things that are infused in every child that attends a Camp Gan Israel. We, therefore, focus many activities on getting rid of children’s fears. From Swimming Lessons with professional instructors to encouraging kids to play a sport that they’re not yet good at. From

community growth,” said Heather Geronemus, Senior Director of Social Equity, Opportunity and Impact at UKG.

“Partnering with the Museum of Discovery and Science for Family Pride Day allows

and cultural experiences for 450,000+ visitors annually in the 150,000 sq. ft. facility.

In the past year, MODS has added to that distinction by being named Broward’s Hub for Resilience Education by the Board of the Community Foundation of

Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information about the Museum, please visit: mods.org or call: 954.467.MODS (6637). Like or follow them on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/modsftlTwitter: twitter.com/modsftl - Instagram: instagram.com/modsftl

Highland Lakes, FL. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, your local school program for Jewish children in

Local Camp Gan Israel in Highland Lakes, activities include: Swimming, Cooking, Sports, Arts & Crafts, Boating, Survival, Crazy Science, Kabala 101, and much more

Family participates in Pride-themed paint activity.

Pride-themed LEGO activity.

First Responders celebrating Pride at MODS.

An Immersive Gastro-tainment Experience

Bagatelle Restaurant Evokes

The French Mediterranean In Miami’s South Beach

By Merilee Kern, MBA

For those desiring to have more than a meal and, instead, experience an allencompassing epicurean adventure should look no further than Bagatelle in the South Beach District of Miami. Situated within the iconic The RitzCarlton, South Beach, Bagatelle Miami is revolutionizing the region’s luxury dining scene by offering a fusion of French Mediterranean cuisine and lavish décor amidst an energetic and vibrant atmos phere that truly captures the essence of South Beach. This culinary sanctuary, nestled within an Art Deco landmark, is elevating the city’s dining and nightlife scene to exciting heights from one tasty— and perfectly over-the-top—destination.

Bagatelle, renowned worldwide for its French Mediterranean delicacies and lively ambiance, is led by the expertise of Corporate Executive Chef Rocco Seminara and Executive Chef Jimmy de Almeida. Together they have crafted a menu that infuses Miami flair into each dish. From mouthwatering starters like Eggplant Parmigiana in a Parmigiano Reggiano Cream Sauce and Yukon Potato Stuffed with Pan Seared Foie Gras with a Truffle Albufera sauce, and a selection of available Caviars, the experience starts off decidedly strong. The main course pre sents delicious confusion as all of the options tantalize. Even so, my personal penchant are the pasta entreés, with the Lobster Fettuccine with a Basil Infused Shellfish Broth prepared tableside—and the Tiny Raviolis “ Del Plin” with Castelmagno Cheese and topped with an abundance of freshly-shaved Black Truffle—paramount among them. To finish, whether you want something decadent like the Jivara Chocolate Pizzetta with Caramelized Hazelnuts—named a World Champion Pizza Dessert in 2019 by Manon Santi—or something light and refreshing like a Lychee Sorbet, there’s certainly something for every palate. Overall, the Bagatelle Miami menu on the whole offers a symphony of flavors combining top-quality ingredients with culinary ingenuity. However this establishment goes far beyond offering expertly designed dishes. Here, it’s not just dinner; it’s a multisensory, wholly immersive gastrotainment experience.

in an eclectic and vibrant musical program curated by talented DJs. This adds to Bagatelle’s trademark ambiance. Throughout the venue performers and dancers of various styles captivate your imagination while you savor Premium Spirits and indulge in elevated victuals.

With its Fusion of French Mediterranean Cuisine, personalized service, lively entertainment and “Joie de Vivre,” Bagatelle Miami has become a one-of-a-kind destination making waves in Miami’s eclectic dining and nightlife scene.

Culinary Maestros Command the Kitchen

they curate the

Beyond the Plate: A Holistic Experience Bagatelle Miami offers more than a culinary adventure; it provides a complete journey where guests can groove to the beats, dance right at their tables and revel

Leading the kitchen are virtuosos who excel in their craft. Corporate Executive Chef Rocco Seminara, who hails from Provence, brings flavors of Mediterranean Cuisine to the forefront. With accolades like the Neptune prize in 2016 under his belt, Chef Rocco’s culinary journey has taken him through establishments such as Hôtel Martinez in Cannes and Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo. Collaborating with Chef Rocco is Executive Chef Jimmy de

that showcases the duo’s creativity and unwavering commitment to quality. Established in 2008 within New York’s Meatpacking District, Bagatelle has grown into a hospitality brand with a presence in 15 pristine locales around the world—from exclusive ski resorts to stunning beach towns like Miami. With 15 venues worldwide, and plans to open numerous additional destinations annually, Bagatelle Group continues to celebrate the South of France’s Epicurean Spirit in spectacular form.

A Feast for the Senses: Décor That Delights

Designed by acclaimed French Designer Sam Baron, the 200-seat venue encompasses a conservatory, bar area, dining room as well as a private dining space. Each area showcases Baron’s talent in blending Art Deco charm with Bagatelle’s lively spirit. The interiors feature a combination of greens and blues

complemented by neutral tones, natural wood elements and elegant gold accents. Luxurious materials like marble and brass elevate the elegance of the space while creating an atmosphere that radiates warmth and conviviality. Baron’s attention to detail can be seen in every aspect of the design, from the white canopy structure that pays homage to Miami’s architectural heritage to the intricate ceiling paneling in the welcoming lobby and lounge area. The main dining room boasts soaring ceilings, floor to ceiling curtains and a stunning collection of brass chandeliers that converge to create an extravagant yet intimate ambiance. Within this space, alcoves offer pockets of privacy while a cozy salon provides a retreat for patrons. Specially designed curved furnishings, luxurious velvet upholstery, delicate canework and exquisite brass accents pay tribute to French Design traditions while still embracing a coastal lifestyle aesthetic.

To find out more visit: https://bagatelle.com

Almeida, whose global culinary background spans St. Tropez, Geneva, Abu Dhabi and Paris. Together

Bagatelle menu

Deliciously Audacious: Bagatelle Miami exudes Southern France’s Joie De Vivre and epicurean spirit.

“Thousand Year Storm” everybody was really taken off guard and was shocked at the torrential rains that inundated South Florida. No one expected a repeat so soon after that event. As we now know after living through not one but two eve rything has changed.

I need to reassure everyone that our pumping systems are working. Even though they have remote transponding systems we manually check them. In addition, all of our pumps have hospital grade generators so even if there is an electric outage, they work. The capacity of rain just like last year was simply too much for any pumps to keep up with.

Last year the storm impacted mainly the eastern side of town. This storm impacted everywhere but in the Southwest we witnessed flooding like no one has seen before. The Southwest was totally inundated; some homes were under one and a half to two feet of water. Schaffer Canal breached and our lakes overflowed.

Our city has invested in pumping sys tems in the southwest that were part of a FEMA Grant. We completed that project and are now dredging to increase capac ity and flow. After last year we were pleased to see the area did not flood and pumps were doing their job. Not the case this year.

On Wednesday night I questioned our City Manager about what had changed. In my opinion, it is possibly the expansion of I-95 and other work on Ives Dairy Road that may be having an impact. I have asked Staff to thoroughly research what has significantly changed.

I have been asked the question why we cannot simply pump out to the Ocean or the Intracoastal. There are now environmental rules and regulations that focus on not pumping out runoff to our oceans. Obviously, there are pollutants and all types of impacts from stormwater runoff that foul our ocean wildlife and our reefs. The pipes that do connect now are grandfathered in so they can remain in place. With sea level rise and tides they have become less and less effective.

Last summer around the same time I held a meeting and committed to our resi-

age projects take years and they cannot be done overnight. I made sure that residents that attended that meeting were clear of the period.

Our engineers came forward with a smaller project that focused on the two blocks that were repetitive losses. They are now exploring how to connect Second Avenue to the main pumping system. Hopes are this can give relief while the main large project is being implemented.

Now once again, we will need to reinforce on the southwest to understand what happened and what measures can be taken to improve what we already have in place.

We are proactive and continue to reassess our responses. Responses from the state take too long and we have found cities like Fort Lauderdale get attention before others. Next Wednesday at our Budget/Commission Meeting, we will be making amendments to order more over 35 residents. At the height of the

Shaping the Future:

A comprehensive plan acts as a blueprint for the future, driving bold visions and long-term decision-making. These plans form the policy foundation for local planning and land use decisions, guiding municipalities in growth, development, and resource management.

Since the last update, the City of Hollywood has seen significant growth and transformation. Population increases, economic shifts, technological advancements, and evolving community needs all necessitate an updated plan. State laws governing land use and planning have evolved. The updated plan will incorporate these changes, ensuring compliance with current legal requirements.

The updated comprehensive plan will guide the City’s growth and development through 2050, addressing emerging trends and challenges such as climate change, technological innovation, and demographic shifts.

The updated plan will set clear strategic goals and initiatives in housing, transportation, economic development, environmental sustainability, and public services. These goals aim to promote equitable growth, enhance quality of life, and create opportunities for all residents. Robust community engagement is essential. The City will continue to seek input from residents, businesses, and stakeholders through public meetings, workshops, and other methods to ensure the plan reflects diverse perspectives and aspirations.

storm, they rescued an Autistic

(Above) City staff and pumps were mobilized to drain deep water from neighborhoods. (Middle) In many areas of the City of Hallandale Beach there is still large areas of water that need to drain and dry out. (Bottom) The Hallandale Beach rescue

rescues: 35 individuals rescued, 5 rescues conducted by connector boats & 174 water-related emergency responses

that starts with the Jews does not end with the Jews. Am Yisrael Chai

“One of the enduring facts of history is that most Antisemites do not think of themselves as Antisemites. We don’t hate Jews, they said in the Middle Ages, just their religion. We don’t hate Jews, they said in the nineteenth century, just their race. We don’t hate Jews, they say now, just their nation state.

Antisemitism is the hardest of all hatreds to defeat because, like a virus, it mutates, but one thing stays the same. Jews, whether as a religion or a race or as the State of Israel, are made the scapegoat for problems for which all sides are responsible. That is how the road to tragedy begins”

– Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacs

You can contact Mayor Larisa Svechin at: lsvechin@sibfl.net. Or: (305) 792-1753.

New Community Conversations

Series: Family Edition

Fabiola Stuyvesant, Commissioner -

Building upon the resounding success of Commissioner Viscarra’s Residents’ Academy and Vice-Mayor Lama’s Senior Roundtable, I’m excited to announce the launch of the SIB Community Conversations Series: Family Edition (CCS).

At the CCS meetings, I will host a series of conversations centered on family, education, and community matters. The idea is to create a safe space to address the various challenges families face. From navigating complex educational landscapes to fostering stronger community ties, we will explore an array of pressing issues. Some of the initial topics we will tackle include:

Parenting in the Digital Age: Sharing online safety tips and nurturing healthy screen time habits.

Building Resilient Families: Empowering families with techniques to fortify resil-

ience, manage stress, and navigate life transitions.

Parenting Through Different Stages:

Addressing the distinctive joys and hurdles encountered at various developmental phases.

Education and Academic Success: Offering guidance and strategies to support children’s academic journey, from homework assistance to college readiness and financial literacy.

Cultural Diversity and Inclusion in Families: Facilitating discussions to cele-

brate diversity, foster inclusivity, and cultivate culturally competent children.

Family Bonding and Healthy Quality

Time: Sharing inspiring ideas for enriching family activities and traditions to strengthen relationships and mental health.

Navigating Special Needs and Disabilities: Offering information about available resources for families raising children with special needs.

The series will feature diverse formats, such as engaging panel discussions,

interactive workshops, insightful guest speakers, enriching Q&A sessions, and valuable networking opportunities. Stay tuned for our inaugural gathering this summer, as we embark on this transformative journey of learning, growth, and collective action.

You can contact Commissioner Fabiola Stuyvesant at: seat3@sibfl.net Or: (305) 792-1751 if you have any questions or comments.

This

Corpsman 1st

Class Vincent “Vince” Falcetta

The Triumph Of The Spirit

By Alyssa Ross, Navy Installations Command

Navy Hospital Corpsman 1st

Class Vincent “Vince” Falcetta will be competing against athletes representing the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Space Force and U.S. Special Operations Command. During the 10 days of competition, Falcetta will compete in Indoor Rowing and Swimming.

Hosted by U.S. Army Training & Doctrine Command (TRADOC) the DOD organizes an annual premiere and elite adaptive-sports competition, the Warrior Games. This year is the 14th Anniversary, highlighting the exceptional physical skills and mental toughness of Seriously Wounded, Ill, and Injured Active-Duty and Veteran Service Members. Though there are medals distributed during Warrior Games, the competition most highly celebrates personal tenacity, perseverance, and the triumph of the spirit.

Falcetta served for 20 years in loyal service to his country. In 2008, while deployed to Afghanistan, he sustained a Combat-Related Traumatic Brain injury (TBI) and returned home with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). More recently, Falcetta began to focus on his own Well-Being and address the physical yet invisible injuries he sustained in the course of his Naval service.

Falcetta began a physical rehabilitation routine to address his physical injuries, which have had a direct relationship with his Mental Health. He committed himself to a local selfdefense and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym as an assistant coach for youth classes. This not only kept him active, it also contributed to a new sense of purpose and accomplishment after leaving active duty. He has been able to work through some of his past traumas and have a positive impact on the children in his community.

Falcetta participated in his first adaptive sports camp with Navy Wounded Warrior in November 2023. Connecting with fellow service members has allowed him to further expand his network of support. He even reunited with a former shipmate, Johnathan Boswell, who is also on Team Navy this year.

Adaptive Athletics

Team Navy is part of Navy Wounded Warrior’s adaptive athletics program. Serious illness or injury can profoundly impact that way of life, often confining a service member to a hospital bed and significantly altering their physical capabilities. Adaptive athletics have been modified to meet the abilities of injured or ill individuals. Sports also help build Self-Esteem, lower stress levels, and

invite service members to rejoin a supportive team environment.

Navy Wounded Warrior

Navy Wounded Warrior is an unbiased advocate that bridges the needs of commands, care teams, and service members in planning a way forward after a serious wound, illness, or injury. Staff guides Sailors and Coast Guardsmen, with their families and caregivers, to create a comprehensive recovery plan, which provides a holistic approach tailored to individual recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration needs. The program allows service members and their families to feel empowered and supported as they adapt to their new normal. Tens of thousands of seriously wounded, ill, and injured service members located throughout the country received assistance from the Navy Wounded Warrior. Sailors and Coast Guardsmen may self-refer to Navy Wounded Warrior, or be referred by a family member, their command leadership or their medical team. Contact the Navy Wounded Warrior call center at: (855) 628-9997. Or email: navywoundedwarrior.fct@navy.mil and become a part of it today. For more information about the 2024 DoD Warrior Games Challenge, visit: https://dodwarriorgames.com/

a Conversational Yiddish Course

By Marc Yahrshevsky

A five-session, Zoom conversational Yiddish course will start on Monday, July 8th to benefit the retiree and senior community. This will bring tremendous joy and happiness to many Floridians.

As individuals age, their connection to their roots and early experiences becomes more significant. For many retirees and seniors, speaking the language of their youth is a cherished practice that brings immense joy and comfort. This linguistic journey back to their formative years serves as a bridge to their past and a means to preserve their cultural identity and heritage.

Language is deeply intertwined with emotion and memory. According to research, speaking one’s mother tongue can trigger memories and emotions associated with childhood and significant life events. For seniors, conversing in the language they first learned often evokes a profound sense of nostalgia and belonging. This is particularly true for those who immigrated to new countries and had to adapt to new languages and cultures. Speaking their native language

can feel like returning home, providing comfort and familiarity that is especially valuable in later life.

The instructor, Gilda Simpkin is a Yiddish teacher at Norwalk Community College, a learning consultant and corporate trainer for 30 years. She carries an M.S. in Counseling and Human Resource Development. Gilda is on the faculty of Fairfield and Marymount Colleges. She is also the author of My Baby Chase.

Yiddish, the Lingua of Nostalgia Yiddish holds a special place in the hearts of many elderly Jewish individuals. For these seniors, Yiddish is more than just a means of communication; it is a vital link to their cultural heritage and communal history.

For many elderly Jews, Yiddish connects them to the rich tapestry of Yiddish literature, music, and theater. Engaging in conversations or listening to Yiddish songs and stories allows seniors to relive their past, and ensure that their cultural heritage endures.

Engaging with the language of

one’s youth has been shown to have several psychological benefits for seniors. It can enhance cognitive function, as using multiple languages helps keep the brain active and engaged. Moreover, it provides a sense of purpose and belonging, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation that are common in older age. For retirees and seniors, consider joining a conversational Yiddish course for emotional well-being, memory health, and brain stimulation. The comfort of familiar words and phrases offers a timeless solace. United Jewish Generations, a Chabad organization for retirees and seniors, is offering a 5 session Conversational Yiddish Course on Zoom starting Monday, July 8th. Sign up at: JewishRetiree.com Or call: (954) 4586000. The course is limited to 30 participants. $50 Early-Bird Price and scholarships are available. Sign up today.

The 411 On 511

Innovative Spirits, Live Music, Food Trucks, and More

Located in the charming and hip Flagler Village, 511 Bar & Lounge is Fort Lauderdale’s newly-opened hub for whis key lovers and cocktail enthusiasts. The bar and lounge offers live music, food trucks, themed programming, large-format events, and more. Since quietly opening in Spring 2024, 511 Bar has already become a neighborhood haunt, boasting a sexy and industrial interior and a trendy, back yard patio with lawn games, twinkle lights, and ample seating underneath umbrellas.

“We have all been a part of the Fort Lauderdale bar and hospitality scene for over 30 years, collectively, so when we decided to open 511 Bar & Lounge together it was truly more of a passion project than anything else,” says coowner Digby Nothard. “It was important for us to create a space that reflects and compliments the Flagler Village com munity with great quality cocktails, each made with a two-ounce pour of love, lots of local brands and brews, and a welcoming atmosphere where guests can kick back with friends, their dogs and just enjoy.”

Created by co-owner Trent O’Connor –known from Maryland’s historic “The Horse You Came In on Saloon,” and Fort Lauderdale’s “Whiskey Neat” – the cocktail menu is his love letter to Fort Lauderdale, filled with traditional and unique creations. Among them, the Mimi: Don Julio Blanco, fresh mango, lime, muddled jalapeno with a Tajin rim; Pretty in Pink: Partida Reposado Tequila, Aperol, freshly squeezed grapefruit and lime juice topped with Q Mixers club soda; KB Special: Espolon Reposado Tequila, Orange Liqueur, agave, freshly squeezed lime and orange juice, cream of coconut and orange zest; and a bevy of freshly

fresh squeezed orange juice, served over crushed ice and topped with Sprite or Peach Lemonade Crush, made with Bulleit Bourbon, peach nectar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, served over crushed ice and topped with Sprite.

Additional 511 Bar signatures sure to please include the 511 Seasonal Whiskey Smash, made with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, fresh seasonal fruit, lemon, and mint; and the OG Woodford Reserve Rye Old Fashioned with Filthy cherries, cane sugar, and black walnut bitters. 511 Bar is a whiskey lover’s paradise with an extensive bottle list as well as various tasting options. You’ll also find several local spir-

rotating roster of food trucks, including BMC Smash Burger, La Condensa Tacos, Mambas Pizza, Duck Fat Dogs, Mr. Meatball, Bohemian Grill, Carlo’s and Pepe’s, and more; a diverse range of tempting street food artisans that pairs perfectly with 511’s pours.

Patrons visiting every Wednesday through Friday from 4PM to 7PM can look forward to Happy Hour specials, including $6 Premium Well Liquor, $7 Fresh Margaritas, and $8 Orange, Ruby Red Grapefruit, and John Daly Crushes with discounted beer and wine by the glass. Live music takes center stage every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, featuring a

mitted to showcasing incredible local talent and providing a stage where local artists can shine.”

In addition to the outdoor patio, 511 Bar also owns the 13,000 sq ft space behind the restaurant where large-scale events are held. 511 Bar promises to be an activated space bringing recurring monthly themed events such as Jazz & Blues Nights, Country Nights, and more with corresponding themed food truck vendors, sponsors, and live music talent. Stop by 511 Bar on Friday, July 5th, from 7PM to 10PM for “Flagler Goes Country,” partnered with Garrison Bros Whiskey. Guests can look forward to live country performances, great BBQ, cigar rollers,

For close to three decades, in a town brimming with options for authentic soulpleasing Cuban cooking, Havana Harry’s has maintained a well-earned reputation as a checklist worthy spot in The Magic City. In fact, since opening its doors in 1995, it’s been celebrated nationally and internationally as a definitive, uniquely Miami dining destination in media outlets from Condé Nast Traveler to the Michelin Guide. Now, in 2024, as it closes in on its 30th year in Coral Gables and part of the Centurion Restaurant Group (CRG), the magic remains, as the restaurant draws crowds for its hearty and heartfelt cooking; charming island-touched ambiance and warm, welcoming service.

“We are honored to count this Miami culinary institution as part of the Centurion family of restaurants,” said Carlos Centurion, President & Founder of CRG, which also owns/operates other wildlypopular concepts including Bulla Gastrobar and Pisco y Nazca, among others. “I have been a fan for years and cherished every meal there. I was beyond lucky to get to know the founders, Nieves and Arturo, and since we took over in 2022, we have worked hard to ensure that it kept the energy, soul and sazón that has made it so iconic while strengthening, behind the scenes, operational elements

that we feel will ensure Havana Harry’s will be around for years to come.”

The old adage declares breakfast the most important meal of the day. True or not, Breakfast at Havana Harry’s is always a good idea. Served from 8:00 a.m.10:30 a.m. Monday - Friday and until 12:00 p.m. Noon on Saturday and Sunday, the Breakfast Menu overflows with sweet and savory selections. Standouts include everything from traditional Cuban Toast – best paired with a steaming hot Café Con Leche – to signature specials including a Vaca Frita Breakfast Sandwich with Mozzarella Cheese, Sweet Plantains and Cilantro Sauce on Cuban Bread; Breakfast Tacos with Chorizo, Cheddar Cheese and Avocado on a Flour Tortilla; Harry’s Omelet – Eggs with Mozzarella and Mushrooms, topped with sliced Avocado and Torrejas Havanas – Soft French Baguette cooked with French Toast-Style, drizzled with Sweet Rum Pudding Sauce. Lunch is a lavish affair, chockablock with options Weekday Lunch Specials, five per day, change daily. Highlights include: Ajiaco – Cuban Beef and Vegetable Stew; Arroz Imperial; Ropa Vieja; Caldo Gallego: Slow-Cooked Pork Soup with Spinach, Beans, and Potatoes and Picadillo, among many others. Also

available exclusively at Lunch, a Build Your Bowl option, priced from $13.95 to $16.95 depending on selections – Protein, Rice, Toppings and Sauce. Then, of course, is the main event; the tempting All-Day Menu. Too lengthy to tackle here, rest assured that new and returning diners regularly wrestle between favorites and an array of temptations sprinkled throughout categories ranging from Tostones and Latin American Rice to Cuban Sandwich Specialties and Milanesas. Rounding out the offerings, Harry’s Combinations plates include: Palomilla Steak & Shrimp and the Havana Trio – an 8 oz. CAB Churrasco with Florida Lobster Tail and Shrimp, all grill-fired.

For a sweet finish, Havanna Harry’s serves close to 40 different temptations including Traditional Cuban Favorites: A variety of Flans, Tres Leches and Rice Pudding, as well as Cheesecakes; Cakes; Eight Layered Chocolate Mousse Cake, anyone? and six different Overdose Milkshakes.

Like a sugar-induced fever dream, these oversized, eye-popping concoctions will appeal to even the most jaded diner’s inner child, with offerings such as the Tres Leches Overdose: A Dulce De Leche Ice Cream Milkshake topped with Tres Leches Cake, Dulce De Leche and Meringue and

Strawberry Chip

A Strawberry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Milkshake topped with Dark Chocolate Cheesecake and Chocolate Covered Strawberries. Havana Harry’s aesthetic is equal parts comfort-driven neighborhood haunt and casually elegant dining destination. The space is imbued with simple sophistication, sporting a monochromatic color scheme anchored by wood floors, white walls, and white brick columns. During the day the dining space is awash in natural light; at night hanging globe light fixtures step in to cast a warm and comforting glow. The main dining room, seating 200, is separated from the buzzy bar, seating 19, by slatted shades, allowing for separation as the volume bar-side creeps north later in the evening (or during Happy Hour). A glowing display case, haloed by a neon sign – “La Vida es Dulce” – houses an array of Desserts to go, including luscious Whole Cakes, Flans and Puddings. Havana Harry’s is located in Coral Gables at; 4612 South Le

Overdose:

Caribbean Fried Rice Arroz Imperial

(1) The bar and lounge offers live music, food trucks, a welcoming outdoor patio with lawn games. (2) The inside bar flows seamlessly into the 2,500 sq ft outdoor patio. (3) Fort Lauderdale’s newly-opened hub for whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.

(1)

(2)

(3)

Timely Lessons About Tyranny from the Father of the Constitution

By John & Nisha Whitehead

“Take alarm at the first experiment on our liberties.” — James Madison

James Madison, often referred to as the “Father of the Constitution,” once predicted that the Bill of Rights would become mere “parchment barrier,” words on paper ignored by successive generations of Americans.

How right he was.

Although Madison initially felt that the inclusion of a bill of rights in the originally ratified Constitution was unnecessary to its success, Thomas Jefferson persuaded him that “a bill of rights is what the people are entitled to against every government on earth, general or particular, & what no just government should refuse, or rest on inferences.”

The Bill of Rights drafted by Madison— the first ten amendments to the Constitution—was a document so revolutionary at the time that it would come to be viewed as the epitome of American liberty. The rights of the people reflected in those ten amendments encapsulated much of Madison’s views about government, the corrupting influence of power, and the need for safeguards against tyranny. Madison’s writings speak volumes to the present constitutional crisis in the country.

Read them and weep.

“The accumulation of all powers, Legislative, Executive, and Judiciary, in the same hands, whether of one, a few, or many, and whether hereditary, selfappointed, or elective, may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny.” — James Madison

“The people are the only legitimate fountain of power, and it is from them that the constitutional charter, under which the several branches of government hold their power, is derived.” — James Madison

“If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be nec-

essary. In framing a government which is to be administered by men over men, the great difficulty lies in this: you must first enable the government to control the governed; and in the next place oblige it to control itself.” — James Madison

“A standing military force, with an overgrown Executive will not long be safe companions to liberty. The means of defence against foreign danger have been always the instruments of tyranny at home.” — James Madison

“Wherever the real power in a Government lies, there is the danger of oppression.” — James Madison

“Knowledge will forever govern ignorance: And a people who mean to be their own Governors, must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.” — James Madison

“I believe there are more instances of the abridgement of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations.”— James Madison

In the years since the founders laid their lives on the line to pursue the dream of individual freedom and selfgovernment, big government has grown bigger and the rights of the citizenry have grown smaller.

However, there are certain principles— principles that every American should know—which undergird the American system of government and form the basis of our freedoms.

The following seven principles are a good starting point for understanding what free government is really all about.

First, the maxim that power corrupts is an absolute truth. Realizing this, those who drafted the Constitution and the Bill of Rights held one principle sacrosanct: a distrust of all who hold governmental power. As such, those who drafted our founding documents would see today’s government as an out-of-control, unmanageable beast.

The second principle is that governments primarily exist to secure rights, an idea that is central to constitutionalism. The purpose of constitutionalism is to limit governmental power and ensure that the government performs its basic function: to preserve and protect our rights, especially our unalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, and our civil liberties. Unfortunately, the government today has discarded this principle and now sees itself as our master, not our servant. The third principle revolves around the belief that no one is above the law, not even those who make the law. This is termed rule of law. Richard Nixon’s statement, “When the President does it, that means it is not illegal,” would have been an anathema to the Framers of the Constitution.

Fourth, separation of powers ensures that no single authority is entrusted with all the powers of government. The fact that the president today has dictatorial powers would have been considered an offense to every principle for which the Framers took their revolutionary stand.

Fifth, a system of checks and balances, essential if a constitutional government is to succeed, strengthens the separation of powers and prevents legislative despotism. The Framers did not anticipate the emergence of presidential powers or the inordinate influence of corporate powers on governmental decision-making. Indeed, as recent academic studies now indicate, we are now ruled by a monied oligarchy that serves itself and not “we the people.”

Sixth, representation allows the people to have a voice in government by sending elected representatives to do their bidding while avoiding the need of each and every citizen to vote on every issue considered by government.

Finally, federalism is yet another constitutional device to limit the power of government by dividing power and, thus, preventing tyranny. In America, the levels

of government generally break down into federal, state and local branches (which further divide into counties and towns or cities). Because local and particular interests differ from place to place, such interests are better handled at a more intimate level by local governments, not a bureaucratic national government.

These seven vital principles have been largely forgotten in recent years, obscured by the haze of a centralized government, a citizenry that no longer thinks analytically, and schools that don’t adequately teach our young people about their history and their rights.

Yet here’s the rub: while Americans wander about in their brainwashed states, their “government of the people, by the people and for the people” has largely been taken away from them.

The answer, as I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries: get unbrainwashed.

Learn your rights.

Stand up for the founding principles. Make your voice and your vote count for more than just political posturing.

Never cease to vociferously protest the erosion of your freedoms at the local and national level.

Most of all, do these things today.

If we wait until the votes have all been counted or hang our hopes on our particular candidate to win and fix what’s wrong with the country, “we the people” will continue to lose.

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.

James Madison, often referred to as the “Father of the Constitution”

Titan Restoration Inc.

Is A Company That Cares

By Erika Cartwright

The only thing in life that is certain, is that anything can happen at any time. Such tragedies as; fire, hurricanes, and floods are real and do happen, bringing with them water damage and the potential for harmful mold and bacterial growth. Water damage can occur for several reasons, some you may not notice right away, such as sewer issues, a leaking roof, and clogged or leaking pipes, just to name a few. During these times you need licensed professionals with a plan of action that can ease the stress and take the headache of dealing with the insurance company off your hands. Allowing you to focus on what is important to you in your time of need. Titan Restoration Inc., formerly known as 1st Priority, is a trusted, licensed Cleaning, Water Damage Restoration, and Mold Remediation Company proudly serving all of southern Florida. The main office is in Broward County. Technicians are throughout; Collier, Lee, Martin, MiamiDade, Monroe, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie Counties, allowing them to arrive at the site within 45 minutes in times of emergency. With emergency calling 24/7, you are never more than a phone call away from friendly, efficient, caring, knowledgeable professionals.

Restoration Inc. works with all Florida homeowners’ insurance companies.

To assess the situation Titan Restoration Inc. offers state-of-the-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.

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.

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 using fans and dehumidifiers. Followed by thoroughly cleansing and

Whether the water damage in your home or business was caused by a leaking pipe, roof, or major flood, Titan Restoration Inc. is here to help. To schedule non-emergency services or to request a free estimate please visit: www. Titanrestorationfl.com their user-friendly

Once the leaks have been found, you will be referred to a trusted, licensed plumber. After the repairs’, State-of-the-art specialized equipment is used to detect moisture levels in the air, dehumidifiers are placed in the affected area, and a Florida-

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

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

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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

Scan Me

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

sanitizing the affected areas using antimicrobial agents effective for moldeliminating 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 year-round, 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 pre-loss 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.

Titan Restoration Inc. is a trusted, licensed Cleaning, Water Damage Restoration, and Mold Remediation Company proudly serving all of South Florida

Titan Restoration Inc. is a customer-friendly company that also specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling.

The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood

Alchemy: Pigments of Probability and Night Swimming Exhibitions Are Open

The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is hosting the opening reception for two exhibitions, Diana Eusebio’s Alchemy: Pigments of Probability, and Carmen Smith’s Night Swimming, on Thursday, June 20 from 5pm to 8pm. The exhibitions will run concurrently with the exhibitions Animals and Faux Ecologies + Augmented Visions of the Nature-verse, currently on view, through August 18, 2024. Admission for the opening reception is $7, and Free for Art and Culture Center members. The Art and Culture Center galleries are open Tuesday-Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturday-Sunday from Noon to 4pm and are located at 1650 Harrison Street in Hollywood.

Alchemy: Pigments of Probability, is a culmination of years of extensive research on the indigenous art of alchemizing plants and natural materials into color. In this specific body of work, she features seven different natural materials native to Miami, Peru, and the Dominican Republic, such as Cochineal, Avocados, Bija (Annatto), Spanish Moss, Indigo, Jagua, and Palo de Campeche (Logwood), often sourcing them directly from the landscape. The imagery in the works is digitally printed onto fabric and combine both archival photos of her past experiences with family and landscape, and imagined photos created with AI to reconstruct images of her family’s history in the Dominican Republic and Peru. Combining traditional practices and modern tech nologies, Diana explores collective mem ory processes, constructing familiar archives and textile traditions reflective of her ancestral past and family’s future legacy. The multi-layered process of creating these compelling new pieces is reflective of the complexities of recovering and recording Indigenous and Afro-Caribbean histories.

tered on color and its cultural significance. Eusebio’s process is informed by research of naturally dyed textiles from Indigenous Latin American and Afro-Caribbean traditions, recognizing their connection to nature and their role as carriers of ancestral wisdom. Eusebio’s fusion of ancestral and modern techniques, including dyeing and photography, contributes to contemporary cultural preservation and celebrates the rich heritage and PreColumbian knowledge embedded within these communities. Her work is a powerful testament to the enduring cultural tapestry of these regions. The exhibition is the eighth in our Oolite Collaborations series with Oolite Arts.

movements such as realism, expressionism, color field, and abstraction, Smith unites an array of formal aspects in a single dreamlike space. An exaggeratedly bright, high-contrast color palette explores color as a form of leisure, a more nuanced consideration of how place affects experience, memory, and identity.

Current Exhibitions

ANIMALS is an all-encompassing, interactive exhibition that looks at the animals around us and how human interaction plays a role in endangerment and survival. From domestic household pets to wild invasive or endangered species, animals are presented through various meth-

sustainability. The artist seeks to challenge prevailing notions of loss, decay, ewaste, and environmental degradation. He uses upcycled ocean debris and reclaimed plastics, transforming them into kinetic sculptures inspired by underwater life, highlighting the need to protect marine ecosystems from plastic pollution. He then uses Neural Radiance Field (NeRF) scans to capture the sculptures in natural environments, creating precise 3D models. These models enable an Augmented Reality (AR) experience that merges physical and virtual elements during the exhibition, offering an immersive and interactive journey for viewers. The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood

Eusebio is a Peruvian-Dominican multidisciplinary artist whose practice is cen-

buildings. Her painterly compositions are kept simple, while her use of color is exaggerated to emphasize a liminal, dreamlike space. Smith designs her paintings from memories and tropical urban architecture. Her use of familiar settings invites viewers to explore the nostalgic scenery, while her use of perspective positions them as if they are part of the scene. Integrating

[dNASAb] is an innovative sculptor of ecosystems, infusing discarded materials and consumer electronics while pioneering new technologies through extended, augmented realities. His new project, Faux Ecologies + Augmented Visions of the Nature-verse, blends environmental conservation, art, and technology to engage viewers as co-creators and advocates for

sions, private entities, the City of

Hollywood, the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council; and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. They welcome donations from all members of the community who wish to support our work.

For more information, visit: artandculturecenter.org