STEIBS/COHEN BUYING EVENT
The Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) will be participating in Nickelodeon’s Our World: Worldwide Day of Play, a day dedicated to joyful learning through play, on September 28. As part of this global initiative to promote healthy, mindful activity, MODS will be hosting its second annual Community Health Day, underwritten by BBX Capital Foundation, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the Museum will be FREE on this special day.
Nickelodeon’s Our World effort inspires kids and provides them with tools to activate their individual and collective agency. MODS, a member of the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM), is proud to be a vital collaborator in this event, reaching millions of families across North America.
“Nickelodeon’s Our World: Worldwide Day of Play focuses on getting kids and their families up, out and playing around,” said Joseph P. Cox, President and CEO of MODS. “Health is one of the Museum’s core learning pillars and play is a core philosophy leading to lifelong good habits. Our Community Health Day will offer a variety of top tier local and regional resources that promote beneficial lifestyles. We are
The NAR Lawsuit Settlement An Introduction For Sellers & Buyers
“Quite a few buyers have long suspected that since sellers were told they had to pay both sides’ commission, residential asking prices were inflated to include those costs.”
Late last year, multiple lawsuits were brought against the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and several large national real estate brokerages. In the NAR’s own words from a September 2023 article on their has been delighting audiences around the globe for more than a decade.
sion in which sellers of residential real estate pay a negotiated total commission to listing brokers who offer the seller’s property for sale to the public. Listing brokers then share part of that commis-
Discover “YI
Listed
commission, some individual licensees and their brokers encouraged “standard” commission rates and other practices which reduced consumer choice.
Here is a direct link to the NAR’s webpage in which they publicly address the settlement: https://www.nar.realtor/the-facts
Do you believe that it’s possible to actually die laughing? If so, Dizzy might be the most dangerous man alive. From the celebrated Apollo Theatre in London’s West End to the iconic Sydney Opera House, Darren “Dizzy” Partridge has been delighting audiences around the globe for more than a decade. An accomplished comedy magician and cirque variety performer, Dizzy is a regular headlining act on the luxury liners of both Celebrity and Norwegian Cruise Lines. He has also been featured as The Trickster in the largest touring magic show in the world, The Illusionists. Dizzy’s wild combination of magic, physical comedy, and theatrical thievery, delivered with mischievous British charm, leaves his audiences both spellbound and gasping for breath. With three different shows to choose from, you are guaranteed an experience they will not believe and will never forget.
As a kid growing up in Coventry, England, he had no idea that one day, he would be performing in cirque shows around the world and making a living with magic.
Dizzy told us, “I am some-
Featuring The Zisl Slepovitch Klezmer Trio Thursday, October 17 at 8 p.m.
It has been suggested that listing brokers and their licensees were not giving sellers a choice of how much commission they would be paying to the buyer’s broker, saying that the cooperative commission and a specific % of the sale price was standard or usual. There are even anecdotal accounts of listing brokers telling sellers that unless they were offering at least X% buyer-side commission, very few Sales Associates would waste their time showing the property to prospective buyers. (Yes, really)
Quite a few buyers have long suspected that since sellers were told they had to pay both sides’ commission, residential asking prices were inflated to include those costs. Maybe so, maybe not. We will have to wait and see what effect (if any) these practice changes have on real estate asking prices in different parts of the country.
Up until August 17, 2024, MLS (Multiple Listing Service) listings included the co-op commission rate or amount offered to licensees who may want to bring a potential buyer into the deal. Many (most?) MLS platforms are owned by the local Board of Realtors® (NAR affiliates), so the MLS became the mechanism by which offers of shared compensation were communicated to other brokers and their licensed Sales Associates.
Even though sellers have historically paid the entire commission to both sellers’ and buyers’ brokers under the NAR’s cooperative commission arrangement, it is important to understand that NAR has never set commission rates, commission splits between brokers, or the business relationships between brokers/licensees and sellers. These details have always been separately negotiated between a local real estate broker and a seller.
So how did the NAR end up in a lawsuit over member broker and licensee behavior and business practices? Possibly because the majority of US residential real estate brokers and offices are members of the NAR and require their individual Sales Associate licensees to be members. For background on State real estate licensees and NAR membership, take a few minutes to look through this article from May 2024: https:// thefloridarealestateblog.com/f/in-floridaare-realtors%C2%AE-real-estate-agents?
The opinion has been presented that the NAR passively enabled individual
members to engage in questionable behavior and business practices. While the NAR may not have actively promoted members’ questionable business practices, neither did they try to prevent some of those practices from occurring through increased member training and more focused professional standards.
State and local Boards of Realtors® , along with member real estate offices, brokers, and licensees agree to follow NAR’s published rules, procedures, and standards which include the cooperative commission arrangement. However, local interpretation and application of rules, standards, and ethical behavior can vary widely between brokerage offices and the individual licensees attached to them.
The NAR is a national organization, yet the practice of offering real estate services to consumers (sellers and buyers) is always hyper-local.
The alleged violations that led to landmark lawsuits and subsequent real estate practice changes were committed by individual licensees interacting with individual sellers and buyers.
Now that we have some background, what has changed? Two of the main changes intended to increase transparency to consumers and promote seller / buyer choice when using an NAR-affiliated broker, licensee, and MLS include:
• Any mention of compensation (broker/licensee cooperative commission) is expressly prohibited in MLS listings and/or any platform drawing information from the MLS (syndicated sites). Previously, this information was required when entering a property’s details into the local MLS.
• Licensees must now have buyers sign Buyer Broker Agreements before providing real estate services to them. BBAs must include the terms, services, and compensation to which broker and buyer have agreed. Sellers can still pay a commission to buyer-side licensees if they would like, though the offer cannot be shown anywhere on an NAR-affiliated MLS platform. Seller-paid commission to the buyer broker can be accomplished in a few ways:
• In signed Listing Agreements, sellers can agree to pay buyer broker compensation, the amount offered, or not to pay any at all. Keep in mind that this decision is made well before the property has been offered for sale to the public.
• Listing brokers can share part of their negotiated commission from the seller with the buyer-side broker (this is traditional cooperative commission). Remember - no mention of compensation
in the property’s MLS listing. Offers and amounts of shared commission must occur through separate communication between brokers and licensees outside the MLS.
• In the written offer that becomes the sales contract once accepted, buyers can ask sellers to pay some compensation to their buyer broker as part of closing. This can be done through a co-op commission or a seller payment at closing directly to the buyer-side broker. As we have discussed in previous articles, payment for real estate services goes to the office’s broker who then distributes it to the individual licensee who interacted with the seller or buyer.
So far, much of this sounds very similar to the old way real estate commissions were handled, except for how and where offers of buyer-side commission are made, right?
The second major change is the requirement that buyer-side licensees must have potential buyers sign Buyer Broker Agreements before any real estate services are provided. In some areas of the US, BBAs have been used for some time. In others it is a recent development and new business practice with which NAR members must comply.
In keeping with NAR settlement-related changes, all BBAs must include the compensation amount or % buyers agree to pay the licensees who will be showing them properties and handling some of the transaction details after an offer is accepted. As with Listing Agreements and sellers, Buyer Broker Agreements are signed (and commission amounts established) well before an offer is made or a sales contract exists.
In BBAs, buyer-side licensees decide how much commission they want to receive if/when their buyer purchases a property. If no seller-paid commission is offered to the buyer broker (or sellers cannot be convinced to pay some when asked), the buyer is responsible for paying the entire amount shown in the signed BBA. According to the new rules, buyerside brokers cannot receive more commission than is pre-determined in the BBA.
Until the recent practice changes, most residential buyers were not directly responsible for paying their real estate brokers commission. New language in required Buyer Broker Agreements changes that.
Remember - sellers can offer (or not offer) buyer-side commission when entering into a Listing Agreement with a local real estate broker, before the property is
available for purchase. On the other side, buyers agree to pay their brokers a predetermined commission if/when they buy a property through them, before a purchase offer or sales contract exists.
One of the most confusing aspects of all this is that neither one knows what the other side’s written compensation agreement contains.
Sellers may be asked to pay part (or all) of a commission negotiated and agreed to by other parties. (I am not making this up.)
Buyer-side brokers can only receive the commission amount or % agreed to in the BBA. If there is no seller-paid cooperative commission offered to the buyer-side, then the buyer has to pay what is shown in the BBA. If a seller is not offering the full amount agreed to in the BBA, the buyer has to make up the difference.
That’s probably enough of an introduction for now. There is a lot for consumers to absorb and apply to both hypothetical and real-world situations. Looks like I will be writing a few more articles on this topic trying to help principals to a residential real estate deal better understand how to navigate the changes while protecting their interests. Read today’s article a couple of times for better understanding, this can be very confusing. The new practices will take some time to work efficiently, and there is a distinct possibility that may never happen. Though these are the new rules that MLS participants must follow until further notice.
BTW - There have already been multiple suggestions by some local licensees on how to sidestep the new settlementrelated practices through some eyebrowraising maneuvers. More on them in a future article.
For now, the best advice I can give you is: Don’t sign anything you don’t fully understand. When interviewing real estate licensees to handle your side of an upcoming transaction, have her or him completely explain (with examples) your choices, rights, and responsibilities under the new broker compensation rules.
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
Fellow Hollywood Residents, Housing affordability is a big challenge for many households these days, especially because of the high cost of homeowners windstorm insurance in Florida.
One of the only ways you can significantly reduce your homeowners insurance premium, is to receive a credit for your house having hurricane-rated impact windows and exterior doors.
The age of your roof is also a big factor, because some insurance companies are refusing to even offer homeowners a policy if they consider your roof to be too old. If your house needs a new roof, or impact windows, I am sending this email to remind you that we have a unique city program that offers qualifying residents with up to $40,000 in funding for these types of exterior home improvements. We created the program in 2018. It is called the “Neighborhood Pride Program,” and it was made possible through a housing affordability funding agreement that we reached with Broward County, which redesignated county funds that were otherwise restricted for beach redevelopment, to instead be available for this and other housing affordability programs for residents who have homes in the many
Hollywood Mayor Josh Levy older neighborhoods of our city.
To qualify, residents must (1) meet income eligibility requirements, and (2) your home must be located within a neighborhood census tract that is eligible based on the average income level in the neighborhood. For the income eligibility requirement, as an example, a one-person household’s annual income cannot exceed $88,680, and a four-person household’s income cannot exceed $126,720. (120% of “Area Median Income.”) For the neighborhood eligibility requirement, you can check to see if your house is located within a qualifying area by clicking the link below and entering your address.
Over 100 Hollywood households have so far benefited from this program, and I hope that many more households will apply and benefit from this funding that the City and County have put in place to invest in the updating of our housing stock and to help our residents with homeowner housing affordability. For income-limited renters, we are also a leading city in terms of supporting partnerships to bring new affordable, workforce and seniors apartments, with four new apartment home buildings under construction right now, along US-1, Dixie Hwy and State Road 7, aka “the 7.” Sincerely yours, Josh Levy - Mayor City Program for New Roofs, Impact Windows and More
ing, and more. For more information about eligibility and the terms of the grant you can also visit https://www.hollywoodfl.org/1159/ Neighborhood-Pride-Owner-OccupiedHousin or you can call our City of Hollywood Community Development Division at: 954-921-3271. To apply right away, you click on the link to the application portal below. https://portal.neighborlysoftware.com/ HOLLYWOODFL/Participant#
“The lawsuits claim that NAR rules violate antitrust laws and inflate the fees paid to buyer’s agents by requiring a listing agent to compensate a buyer’s agent for listing a property on the MLS.”
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
Franklin Mint Items
Old Fountain Pens • Old Weather Vanes • Old Perfume Bottles
Unique Items
Lladro Statues
Vintage Native American Items/Artifacts • Swarovski • World’s Fair Items • Vintage Foreign Paper Money
Love Jewish YIDFEST 2024 Series.
Tickets: https://www.aventuracenter.org/events/ detail/the-wheel-songs-from-the-road-2024
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/ 479768014798921
Yiddish Tangos
Saturday October 19 at 8 p.m.
Featuring Aaron Kula and his Klezmer Company Jazz Orchestra and Avi Hoffman, Yiddish Tangos fuses Yiddish melodies with tango rhythms, producing a unique and sensuous sound embracing two distinct cultures.
During World War II, Jewish composers added their voices to tango, which was the rave on both sides of the Atlantic. Featured at major festivals around the world, this event highlights Hoffman’s tales of Jewish culture and live dancers to bring the passion of Yiddish and tango to all ages.
This event is presented as part of YI Love Jewish YIDFEST 2024 Series.
Tickets: https://www.aventuracenter.org/events/ detail/yiddish-tangos-2024
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/ 1023468969167949
Anne Being Frank, A New Play by Ron Elisha Saturday, November 9 at 8 p.m.
A new play by Ron Elisha and performed Off-Broadway to rave reviews, this one-woman show starring Alexis Fishman is a total reimagining of the story of Anne Frank.
The play takes place within three worlds: Anne and her family’s secret annex hiding place, the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp where Anne died and an imagined world where Anne survives WWII to go over the manuscript of her diary with her editor at a publishing house in Manhattan.
This play poses the question: “Had Anne known precisely what was in store for her and her family at the hands of the Nazis, would she still have written, ‘In spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart?’”
This event contains adult language or content.
Tickets: https://www.aventuracenter.org/events/ detail/anne-being-frank-2024
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/ 385189307537009
Fiddlers on the Roof:
A YI Love Jewish Sing-A-Long Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 8 p.m.
A sing-a-long celebrating one of the most beloved Broadway musicals of all time, this show features live musicians with lyrics provided on screen that will invite audiences to belt out the classic Fiddler on the Roof score with standards that include “Tradition,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “Sunrise, Sunset.”
This interactive experience offers a new way to enjoy this timeless story of family, faith and finding one’s place in our everchanging world.
Tickets: https://www.aventuracenter.org/events/ detail/fiddlers-on-the-roof-2025
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/ 788320870142519
Tickets to all four shows are on sale now.
Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: aventuracenter.org - by phone at: 877.311.7469 or: 954.462.0222 or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center
Elevated
Pasta Night
Arc Culinary invites food enthusiasts and South Florida diners looking for a unique experience to an elevated “Pasta Party” as part of the Chef Experience Dinner series on Friday, September 6 at 7 p.m., at the Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen in Sunrise. Proceeds from ticket sales support Arc Broward’s mission of providing opportunities for children and adults with disabilities and other life challenges to realize their full potential.
“Arc Culinary’s chef experience dinner series is a celebration of culinary creativity and community,” said Craig Zeleznik, director of culinary enterprises. “We’re thrilled to create opportunities for guests to experience a night of great food with an even greater purpose.”
Pasta lovers will indulge in a fourcourse pasta extravaganza, beginning with savory gnocchi all ‘amatriciana featuring potato gnocchi served in a spicy pomodoro sauce with guanciale and finished with pecorino romano; mouthwatering penne ai funghi porcini featuring penne pasta with fresh porcini mushrooms in a black garlic and butter sauce; veal lasagna, a dish with rich and cheesy bechamel and pomodoro sauce layered with ground veal, fresh ricotta, and moz-
Do You Snore? Are You Always Tired?
Snoring Is No Laughing
Matter!
It may be more than just an annoying habit, it may be a sign of Sleep Apnea
What Exactly is Sleep Apnea?
When the muscles that control the upper airway relax, some people begin to snore. When the airway becomes completely blocked and the person temporarily stops breathing, this is an episode of “Obstructive Apnea.” Each Apnea event may last for a few seconds or up to a couple minutes or more. Events may happen frequently - even several hundred times a night.
Can This Condition Be Treated? How?
There are many effective treatments for snoring. A widely accepted treatment for Sleep Apnea is oral appliance therapy. An oral device custom fit by your dentist is designed to keep your airway open and help prevent Apneas.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine
Recommends an oral appliance as a first-line treatment option for patients with mild to moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), and for those with severe OSA who either decline CPAP Therapy or are unable to successfully use CPAP Therapy.
This treatment does not involve medications or surgery and helps hundreds of thousands of people all over the world enjoy sleeping safely for a healthier life. Many experience the benefits quickly - often during the first night of use.
Most Of The Health Insurances And Medicare Will Pay For Sleep Apnea Treatment Call (954) 922-4633 For More Information.
The House of Savings Challenge
FPL Shares Ways to Save as High Temperatures Continue to Sweep the State
On average, August is the hottest month of the year in the Sunshine State. Considering cooling makes up approximately 60% of energy bills, Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) wants to help customers keep their bills as low as possible with tips and resources.
• Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature between 75 and 78 degrees, and remember that for every degree above 75, you can save 35% on your monthly cooling costs.
energy-saving kit to help make their home more efficient or to donate their prize to FPL’s Care To Share program, dedicated to helping fellow Floridians in need.
Tips to save on some of
Tips to
the biggest home energy drivers:
• FPL offers a full suite of free, energy-savings tools including the new House of Savings Challenge, where customers can play along with FPL Energy Expert, Maria, and energy robot,
• Phantom energy users, like electronics that are “off” but still plugged in, can account for up to 510% of electricity usage in your home. If you aren’t actively using the appliances throughout your home – i.e., air fryers, gaming consoles, or standing fans – unplug them.
• Your water heater is usually the second-largest energy user in your home. Lower the water heater temperature from 140° to 120° to save 3 to 5% on your energy costs and you’ll still have plenty of hot water.
Tiki Boat Charters offers a festive, tikithemed adventure perfect for all types of gatherings, from bachelorette and bachelor parties to birthdays, corporate events and casual get-togethers.
A New Wave of Entertainment on the Water Fort Lauderdale, often referred to as the “Venice of America” due to its extensive canal system, has long been a destination for boating enthusiasts and tourists alike. Freaky Tiki Boat Charters is set to elevate the local experience with its one-of-a-kind tiki boat, designed to host up to 22 guests for an unforgettable journey through the city’s iconic waterways. Each charter offers a blend of scenic views, good vibes, and an energetic
FPL’s newest tool: In the new House of Savings Challenge, players are led on a mission to get a home’s energy usage back on track by solving challenges and answering energy-related questions. Those who answer the most questions correctly in the shortest time can become eligible to win a House of Savings DIY
Next steps and energy-saving tips: For more tips and resources, customers can go to: FPL.com/WaystoSave to access FPL’s free tools like the Energy Manager, information on FPL’s energy-saving programs and rebates and: FPL.com/ HouseofSavings to access the House of Savings Challenge.
Florida Power & Light Company
As America’s largest electric utility, Florida Power & Light Company serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to approximately 5.8 million accounts, or more than 12 million people. FPL operates one of the most fuel efficient and cleanest power generation fleets in the U.S and in 2022 won the ReliabilityOne® National Reliability Award for the seventh time in the last nine years. The company was also recognized
by Escalent in 2022 as one of the most trusted U.S. electric utilities for the ninth consecutive year. FPL is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE), a clean energy company widely recognized for its efforts in sustainability, corporate responsibility, ethics and compliance, and diversity. NextEra Energy is ranked No. 1 in the electric and gas utilities industry in Fortune’s 2023 list of “World’s Most Admired Companies” and recognized on Fortune’s 2021 list of companies that “Change the World.” NextEra Energy is also the parent company of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage.
For more information about NextEra Energy companies, visit these websites: www.NextEraEnergy.com - www.FPL.com www.NextEraEnergyResources.com
atmosphere, complete with your favorite music, drinks, and a crew dedicated to ensuring a memorable outing. Whether cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway or anchored at a sandbar for a floating party, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters provides a versatile space for any occasion.
Customized Experiences for Every Occasion
Freaky Tiki Charters offers fully customizable packages to cater to the unique needs of every group. Guests can choose from a variety of charter options, including daytime adventures, sunset cruises, and evening excursions, each tailored to create the perfect ambiance for their event.
“We’re thrilled to bring something truly exciting to Fort Lauderdale,” said Azeem Sultan, Owner of Freaky Tiki Boat Charters. “Our goal is to provide a fun, safe, and unforgettable experience for everyone who steps aboard. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fun day out on the water,
our tiki boats are the perfect setting.”
A Safe and Enjoyable Experience
Safety is a top priority at Freaky Tiki Boat Charters. Each boat is operated by a licensed and experienced captain who is familiar with the local waters, ensuring a smooth and secure ride. The boats are also equipped with all necessary safety equipment, and the crew is trained to provide exceptional service while adhering to all safety regulations.
In addition to its party-centric focus, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters is committed to responsible boating practices. The company encourages guests to enjoy their time on the water while respecting the local environment, promoting sustainable practices that help preserve Fort Lauderdale’s natural beauty.
Book Your Tiki Adventure Today Freaky Tiki Charters is now accepting bookings for its Fort Lauderdale location.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new way to enjoy the city or a visitor seeking a unique experience, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters promises an adventure you won’t forget. For more information or to book your charter, visit: www.freakytikicharters.comOr call: (754) 328-9387. Follow Freaky Tiki Boat Charters on Social Media at: @freakytikicharters for updates, special offers, and a glimpse of what to expect on your next tiki adventure.
About Freaky Tiki Boat Charters Freaky Tiki Charters is a premier party boat company offering unique, tikithemed charters in Fort Lauderdale. With a commitment to fun, safety, and exceptional service, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters provides an unparalleled experience on the water. Whether for special occasions or casual outings, Freaky Tiki Boat Charters is the go-to choice for unforgettable adventures.
Freaky Tiki Boat Charters promises an adventure you won’t forget. A New Wave of Entertainment on the Water.
defying acrobatics, the show is a rollercoaster ride of emotions that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout.
ment. The show appeals to audiences of all ages, making it the perfect outing for families, friends, or even a captivating date night.
times asked if I always wanted to be a magician and to be honest, the short answer is no – but I always followed my interests. I started out in martial arts; I just loved the physicality and athleticism it required. My favorite moves were the ones that involved spinning and kicking and jumping, and those movements would soon morph into a love of breakdancing. I taught myself all the power moves, and even though I didn’t have an ounce of rhythm, I loved doing all of the acrobatic tricks. Believe it or not, those tricks landed me a gig as Sir Francis Drake in a stunt show in Majorca, Spain.”
During this time Dizzy spent several seasons doing backflips and high falls and sword fights with my fellow swashbucklers. When his tenure as a professional pirate eventually came to an end (actually due to a fight with Blackbeard; that’s a whole other story), he wandered into a cirque audition back in London and blew away the casting directors with everything he had learned. As the other applicants were fussing about which music they wanted, he ran up the wall, did a backflip, and when he landed, he had everyone’s attention. As it turns out, in some careers, bouncing off the walls is a good thing. He was hired and moved to Myrtle Beach to work for Le Grand Cirque and was exposed to a myriad of different performers, including some influential magicians (who would eventually become his teachers), and everything just clicked into place.
One of those influential magicians was Janna Roukhmanova – she is a world-renowned, multi-discipline cirque performer originally from Moscow, Russia. She also happens to be his wife! Together they are committed to bringing world-class entertainment to as many people as they can.
The Aventura Show
Magic & Mayhem Live is an extravaganza of magic and laughter that promises to leave audiences mesmerized and roaring with laughter. This one-of-a-kind show brings mind-bending illusions to deathImpossible
Darren “Dizzy” Partridge, with his mischievous British charm, is the heart and soul of the production. His seamless fusion of magic and physical comedy has earned him a reputation as one of the most entertaining magicians in the business. Watching Dizzy perform is like witnessing a whirlwind of laughter and amazement. He has the uncanny ability to make the impossible seem possible and the possible seem hilariously absurd.
Magic & Mayhem Live is not just a magic show; it’s a theatrical experience that takes the audience on a journey through the realms of fantasy and wonder. One of the highlights of the show is the mischievous duo of Dizzy and Janna Roukhmanova, whose chemistry and onstage camaraderie are simply electric. Janna’s background in cirque performance adds an extra layer of excitement to the magic acts, as she gracefully weaves through the air with her aerial acrobatics, leaving the audience in awe.
As the lights dim and the curtain rises, the audience is transported into a world of magic, mayhem, and mystery. The grand stage comes alive with dazzling lights, intricate sets, and heart-pounding music that sets the tone for the jaw-dropping performances to come.
But it’s not just the individual acts that make this show so special; it’s the seamless integration of each act into a cohesive and immersive experience. The transitions between performances are smooth, with each act building upon the excitement of the last. The show’s pacing is expertly crafted, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment.
One of the most thrilling segments of the show is when the audience becomes a part of the magic. Volunteers are invited on stage to participate in mind-reading acts and daring escapology tricks. The audience’s reactions range from nervous laughter to stunned silence as they witness the seemingly impossible happen right before their eyes. Magic & Mayhem Live is not just for magic enthusiasts; it’s for anyone who appreciates the art of entertain-
So, if you find yourself yearning for a night of wonder, laughter, and unforgettable memories, don’t miss the opportunity to experience Magic & Mayhem Live. This is not just a magic show; it’s a celebration of the human spirit, the joy of imagination, and the thrill of being alive.
Magic and Mayhem is a family friendly show perfect for the whole family, presented By CIRQUE JOURNEY ENT. will be performing at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Saturday, January 18th, 2025 - 2:00 p.m & Saturday, January 18th, 20257:00 p.m., seats start at $29.00. Book your tickets now for a night of enchantment that will leave you spellbound and gasping for breath!
Tickets
Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. You can purchase tickets online at: www.aventura center.org - By phone at: (877) 3117469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 6606307.
Parking FREE parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter.
For more information, visit: www.aventuracenter.org
Dizzy and Janna
grateful to BBX Capital Foundation for their investment in this free admission day to bolster our community.”
Join the wellness journey and discover local options to strengthen, support and improve overall health. During Community Health Day, guests can:
• Explore healthy food choices and nutritious snacks
• Participate in stress-busting workshops
• Uncover secrets for a healthier, happier life
• Connect with local resources for health screenings
• Visit wellness booths
Children will enjoy active play and learn smart safety tips, aligning perfectly with the Worldwide Day of Play’s emphasis on joyful, active learning. “Events like these present wonderful opportunities to engage with our community and to promote healthy lifestyle choices,” said Lois A. Marino, Executive Director of BBX Capital Foundation. “When a person invests in their health, they lay the building blocks for success in all areas of life. Our team cherishes this opportunity to spread vital knowledge, especially to families and children in our community.”
with Warner Bros. It is locally presented by Florida Prepaid College Savings Plan and sponsored by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.
Science.
“Play is a powerful experience that enriches people’s lives in museums, schools, homes and beyond,” said Arthur G. Affleck, III, Executive Director of the Association of Children’s Museums. “ACM is pleased to partner with Nickelodeon to amplify the importance of play on wellbeing and healthy brain development and to make learning more effective and joyful for everyone. As children’s museums, we believe in the power of play and we strive to nurture more play and playful learning everywhere we go.”
Guests to the Museum on Sept. 28 will also be amongst the first to explore the national exhibit SCOOBY-DOO! Mansion Mayhem. This immersive experience, in partnership with Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment, allows families to join the members of Mystery Inc. to analyze clues and put their problem-solving skills to the test. Young detectives and their families will work through the rooms of the mansion, unmask the jewel thief, discover the mansion’s secrets and meet different characters from the iconic TV show that has captivated fans for more than five decades. SCOOBY-DOO! Mansion Mayhem was produced by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis in partnership
Experience MODS, South Florida’s award-winning attraction featuring 150,000 square feet of dynamic science exhibits, an outdoor science park, a live animal collection, a rotating schedule of science shows, learning labs, café, store and a grand atrium featuring the Great Gravity Clock, a 52-foot-tall kinetic energy sculpture; the largest clock in Florida. The showpiece of the Museum since 1993, this unique timepiece is one of only three in the world.
For more information about Nickelodeon’s Our World: Worldwide Day of Play, please visit: www.childrensmuseums.org/dayofplayFor additional information about MODS’ Community Health Day, visit: mods.org/ event/mods-community-health-day.
About Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) ACM is the foremost professional society supporting children’s museums in developing rich environments that stimulate children’s natural playfulness, curiosity and creativity. With more than 470 members in all 50 states and in 19 countries, ACM champions children’s museums and together enrich the lives of children worldwide. As a global leader, advocate and resource for the field, ACM and
our member organizations strive to build a better world for children and serve over 30 million visitors annually. Started in 1962, ACM recently marked its 60th year of impactful service to children, families and children’s museums.”
About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, now in its 45th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The brand includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, digital, location-based experiences, publishing and feature films. For more information or artwork, visit: nickpress.com. Nickelodeon is a part of Paramount’s (Nasdaq: PARA, PARAA) global portfolio of multimedia entertainment brands.
About BBX Capital Foundation
The BBX Capital Foundation was created in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) corporate foundation. Since then, the Foundation has awarded more than $20 Million in contributions and in-kind services to charitable organizations throughout Florida. The BBX Capital Foundation focuses on three key areas: the arts, education and human services. It considers requests for specific projects, as well as for general programs.
About the Museum of Discovery and
Founded in 1976 as the Discovery Center, today the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) is at the forefront of science education, innovation and exploration. MODS connects people to inspiring science, providing STEM education and cultural experiences for 450,000+ guests annually in the 150,000 sq. ft. facility. MODS is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) for three decades (only 3% of science museums are accredited for excellence and leadership in the field). 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 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 guests from all walks of life. The Museum hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. MODS is located downtown at 401 Southwest Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312.
For more information about the Museum, please visit: mods.org or call: 954.467.MODS (6637).
A child arranges X-rays of the skeletal system.
A family greets a service animal from Canine Assisted Therapy.
A young child plays in MODS’ outdoor Food Forest.
“SANCTUARY:
Our Sacred Place”
A New Photo Exhibit Exploring Miami’s Indigenous, African, And Caribbean Communities
HistoryMiami Museum is thrilled to announce its newest exhibition, SANCTUARY: Our Sacred Place, opening Thursday, August 22nd, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. This captivating exhibition by Little Haiti photographer, Woosler Delisfort, delves into the spiritual origins of Miami’s Indigenous, African and Caribbean communities by capturing moments of divine connection in temples, churches, and mosques. The more than 100-pieces that make up the exhibition highlight how these cultures are harnessing sacred spaces in Miami as vital sources of empowerment, both politically and spiri tually.
“I felt the way religion in the Black community is commonly portrayed is inaccurate - Sanctuary: Our Sacred Place is my way of broadening the perspective,” said Woosler Delisfort, the inaugural recipient of the HistoryMiami Museum photography fellowship for Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), and Latinx artists. “This is an essay about my spiritual journey and the ways in which communities create and preserve spaces to offer self-affirmation, unity, and tran scendence.”
Co-curated by Ireola Olaifi and Marie Vickles, SANCTUARY promises to be a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of Miami’s spiritual heritage, elevated with musical selections and altars that bring the experience to life.
“It is an honor to support Woosler’s vision as curator of this exhibit,” said Marie Vickles. “Through his images, audi ences will feel a personal connection intended to remind them of their own sto ries or introduce them to new ones. The experience of SANCTUARY eloquently shares the living and connected histories of Miami’s Indigenous, African, and Caribbean communities and hits home the importance of our local arts connection to South Florida’s past and present.”
The exhibition opening night event is complimentary with advanced registration and will feature an indigenous ceremony by Ameyal Mexican Cultural Academy, tantalizing spirituals by Hued Songs, drinks and light bites. Tickets are limited. RSVP HERE.
The exhibition follows Woosler’s fellow ship with HistoryMiami. Presented by the museum’s Center for Photography, the fellowship supports emerging documentary photographers who capture and amplify local stories, particularly those related to BIPOC and Latinx members of the community. Support from The Jorge M. Perez Family Foundation at The Miami Foundation has made it possible for HistoryMiami Museum to continue supporting local photographers in documenting and sharing community stories.
“Woosler captures the essence of Miami’s religious communities with clarity and conviction. His introspective voyage through these sacred places shows us how spirituality transcends boundaries and how Miami’s many spiritual communities claim and commune with their world. We are excited to share his work and to see the impact of his experience with the youth who worked alongside him,” said Christopher Barfield, HistoryMiami Director of Exhibitions.
As part of his fellowship, Delisfort mentored a talented group of Miami students in the Youth Photography Fellowship. This exhibition highlights projects from middle and high school students tasked with exploring their daily lives and communities
Preserving History
Sharing First-Hand Accounts of Military Service
(Family Features) More than a century after the signing of the Treaty of Versailles ended World War I, stories told by American veterans who served during this pivotal time offer fascinating insights into this period.
To preserve and share history as it happened through the lens of those who lived it, the Library of Congress Veterans History Project (VHP) collects these stories, and the stories of veterans who followed. The individual stories of many of the veterans involved have been lost to time; however, the program encourages military veterans to document their experiences via first-hand oral histories, photos or written accounts. The stories are then made accessible so current and future generations may better understand what veterans experienced during their service. As time passes, new submissions from veterans who served in World War I have become increasingly rare, but occasion-
Photography is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing photographic images that narrate the stories of Miami’s
ally, something special is uncovered, such as two submissions from Sherie Lockett: collections from her grandfathers, both African American World War I veterans.
Containing 34 original letters, Jessie Calvin Lockett’s collection provides a unique insight into his experience serving in France as a stevedore, loading and unloading cargo ships.
The collection of Sherie Lockett’s grandfather, Arthur Singleton, includes a unique find: a 105-year-old diary.
When Singleton joined the Army in 1918, he was assigned to the 803rd Pioneer Infantry Brigade, a segregated unit tasked with constructing and repairing infrastructure. Singleton’s diary is notably VHP’s first written account from a Black soldier who
lic. Through its extensive collection of his torical images, dedicated photography galleries, and engaging programs, the
Center aims to address representational gaps in past collaborations, the museum’s collection, and the stories featured in our
For more information, please visit: www.historymiami.org
Mannequin. He describes arriving in Scotland, traveling to France for further training and being sent to the front lines on Nov. 11, 1918, the same day the Armistice took effect.
His combat experience lasted only six hours, but his time in Europe extended beyond the ceasefire. Post-combat entries describe camping at Menil-LaTour, receiving a promotion to Platoon Sergeant, recovering U.S. property from the trenches and visiting Paris.
He also candidly recounts instances of racism from fellow American troops while abroad - including being denied service at
his base canteen and harassed out of a theater - and shared how his unit was assigned “background” work while white engineer units received recognition for digging trenches on the front lines.
Thanks to their granddaughter’s donation of their letters and diary to the effort, VHP can share Jessie Lockett’s and Singleton’s experiences and perspective as Black soldiers during World War I. While the program requires first-hand submissions, the stories of veterans who served long ago and have already died still may be included through similar donations of diaries or pre-recorded videos.
To read more veterans’ stories and learn more about how you or a loved one can contribute to the program, visit: loc.gov/vets
(L) When Singleton joined the Army in 1918, he was assigned to the 803rd Pioneer Infantry Brigade. (R) The program encourages military veterans to document their experiences via first-hand oral histories, photos or written accounts.
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“World’s Greatest Promoter: Don King”
Promises An Extravaganza in Miami This September
The World’s Greatest Promoter, Don King, has announced the return to the ring of WBC World Cruiserweight Champion Noel “The Dark Horse” Mikaelian (27-2, 12 KOs) as he faces Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1, 19 KOs) in an explosive night of fights set for Saturday, Sept. 28 at Casino Miami Jai Alai.
Mikaelian from Yerevan, Armenia, fighting out of Miami, was originally scheduled to defend his world title Rozicki from Ontario, Canada, on June 7 but the fight was postponed due to a cut Mikaelian suffered in training near his eye.
“It was disappointing that I wasn’t able to face ‘The Bruiser’ in June, but my injury has healed to perfection and I’m ready to go,” Mikaelian said. “I can’t wait for September 28th and to defend my world title during this massive Don King event.”
King said there is no debate that the matchup is between the world’s top cruiserweights fighting at the 200-pound limit. “Even minus the Mikaelian-Rozicki matchup we had a near-sellout crowd at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood in June headlined by Biair “The Flair” Cobbs and Adrien “The Problem” Broner,”
King said. “The word is out that we are still producing the best fights in all of boxing and fights that the world wants to see and that boxing fans are clamoring for!”
King added the September fight date was previously discussed to take place September 14th, but moved off that date because of the busy combat sports calendar with Mexican superstate Canelo Alvarez fighting, as well as the first UFC fight at the Sphere in Las Vegas.
Added Rozicki, the WBC’s No. 1 contender and ranked No. 8 by the WBA. “I’m glad we were able to reschedule this fight, and now I will finally get what is rightfully mine. Mikaelian can’t delay my date with destiny any longer and I will put that world title belt around my waist come September 28th.”
The Don King Productions fight card will be broadcast on Pay Per View via Triller TV, DonKing.com and Itube247.com.
Tickets, priced starting from $25, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.playcasinomiami.com. Floor seats are $150, ringside seats are $750, and next level tables $2,500.
Rewriting Our Code: Looking To The Future Of Hallandale Beach
By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper
Cities, just like corporations, run under specific rules and regulations. We have our City charter as our Governing Document and a Code of Ordinances that regulate everything from right of ways, services, businesses, construction, building maintenance and development. The charter can only be amended by a direct vote of the people. Our Code can be changed by the commission through a majority vote. Some development regulations can only be changed by the commission and then must be authorized by the county and in some cases the state. As a Commission, we have adopted changes to various codes over the years. These changes come in the form of Ordinances that are brought to a vote twice at our Commission Meetings for direct public input. These changes have been adopted to Enhance Operations, clarify Rules and Modernize Various Codes to Modern Realities. Ordinances are the Laws of the City. It has been many years since we have performed a Full Code Rewrite. We
directed the City Manager to begin the process last year. We went out to bid and approved a contract with Calvon Giordano to perform the Rewrite. This is not simply reading the Code and Reorganizing and Redrafting, it is a Full Rewrite. The process entails the analysis of every Code side by side with our Residents and Businesses. It will become a blueprint for our future. The rewriting will take at least a year.
Last Thursday, we hosted the first public workshop at the Cultural Center. There were two sessions open to the public. At 4:00 p.m. Business Owners and Developers attended and at 6:00 p.m. the public came. C&G set up stations around the room and asked participants to either place green dots for yes or red for no on items.
Displays included different signs, types of houses, types of building, street layouts and parking. There were other stations that showed land uses around the City. These are a pattern of where to put use including Commercial, Residential, Multi Family, Low Density to High Density and
various building heights.
Florida Law is very strict when it comes to property rights. If I own a property that I can build commercially it is “by right” to build. The codes regulate the how. Some areas you can build “by right” single family and other multifamily “by right.” We cannot take those rights as we can be sued under The Burt Harris Act. We can again regulate how they are built.
There are various viewpoints and ideas of what changes we need to address future growth. Some of us believe that we can stop all Development and Redevelopment. That is not realistic. Property owners have rights and buildings often become obsolete. Some of us want more Development to address Housing but not in our backyard.
Land Development and Zoning Laws have been around for decades. Some may be surprised that the patterns are now changing back to what I call “Back to The Future.” As dense urban communities, we are mixing uses along our corridors. The New Urbanism, which I call the Old Urbanism that provides that Commercial
and Residential, can and should be mixed. I remember going to my grandmothers in Trenton, New Jersey. There were Single Family Homes and MultiFamily Units right next door to the market. You could walk another two blocks and go to the movies. There were restaurants on the main street in store fronts and others in converted houses. The beauty was you did not even need a car. My grandmother did not drive. She walked pretty much everywhere except where you could catch the shuttle to work. How do you feel about our future? What do you envision for tomorrow? We want to know! If you missed the meeting, there is an online survey at: www.visionHallandaleBeach.org. We will also be scheduling another Follow-Up Meeting.
Please feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City a better place! I’m reachable at the Office: (954) 457-1318. On my Mobile/Text: (954) 632-5700. Or visit my website at: www.MayorJoyCooper.com. Working for you! Always have! Always will!
Seen Being Green! Renuable Composting Program Underway In Hollywood
Did you know that more than 40% of residential waste is compostable? For every 10 pounds of food waste that you compost instead of sending to the landfill, 9 pounds of Carbon Dioxide Emissions are avoided. Additionally, by adding one 1 pound of compost to 99 pounds of regular soil, you can increase the material’s water holding capacity by 33 pounds, or about 4 gallons. Composting can also help stop Red Tides, Algae Blooms, and Fish Die-Offs by providing an alternative to Synthetic Fertilizers that can run off into our waterways.
As a certified Green City, Hollywood’s Sustainability Action Plan includes implementing a composting pilot program to encourage residents to compost food and yard waste. The pilot program is underway and the first 400 households to register will receive a free composting bin, as well as access to educational classes to learn how to compost at home. Registered users of the program will receive airtight composting bins that are swapped with clean, empty bins every pick-up
Items NOT accepted: Stickers, Plastic, Animal Waste, Toxic Materials, and Coated Paper.
Saving The Planet - One Pound at a Time.
PETA Lawyer Discusses
Cultivated-Meat Lawsuit
By Jon Hochschartner
and the Institute of Justice
filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking to overturn Florida’s ban on cultivated-meat sales. For those who don’t know, cultivated meat is grown from livestock cells, without slaughter. It offers a number of potential animal welfare, public health and environmental benefits.
Finally, it seemed, the cellularagriculture field was fighting back against right-wing actors, who, in recent years, have sought to scare the public about an emerging technology for the sake of political gain. Still, as I read more about the lawsuit, again, brought by a cultivatedmeat firm and a libertarian non-profit, I felt a little uneasy.
Among other things, the lawsuit argues Florida’s ban violates the Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution, which gives federal law priority over state law in certain instances, and the Commerce Clause, which gives the U.S. Congress sole authority to regulate interstate commerce.
I know very little about the law, but this argument reminded me of those used by animal-exploitation industries seeking to invalidate state-level protections for our fellow creatures. For instance, it’s my understanding pork producers seeking to overturn California’s Prop 12 cited the Commerce Clause as well. Thankfully, the US Supreme Court,
conservative as it is, rejected the argument by a narrow vote of 5-4 last year.
Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote the majority opinion, stating, “While the Constitution addresses many weighty issues, the type of pork chops California merchants may sell is not on the list.”
Still, as an uninformed observer, I worry a victory in the cultivated-meat lawsuit might undermine the constitutional basis of pro-animal laws. For instance, California recently passed a ban on fur sales. Would this be in jeopardy if Florida’s law banning the sale of cultivated meat was overturned?
In an effort to answer the question, I reached out to a number of legal experts who were sympathetic to animal rights.
The only person who got back to me was Asher Smith, Deputy General Counsel and Director of Litigation at the PETA Foundation. I was thankful for the time he spent answering my queries.
His current cases include actions under the Endangered Species Act against roadside zoos abusively keeping protected animals, constitutional lawsuits on behalf of both animals and humans, and false advertising claims challenging the deceptive marketing of animal products as humane.
Smith began by making clear the objections People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals had to Florida’s cultivated-meat ban. “All it does is help to prop up factory farming interests at the
expense of animal welfare,” he said. “Florida’s ban is not supported by any adequate health or safety justification.”
The lawyer continued, noting any giveaway to the meat industry is a vote to increase greenhousegas emissions and deforesta tion, and to increase the inten sity of the storms and hurricanes that so frequently ravage Florida’s coasts. For these rea sons, PETA supported the law suit against the cultivated-meat ban.
Smith was not concerned about the case threatening state-level animal protections. He pointed out, after passing the ban earlier this year, Florida offi cials explained their goal was to fight back against shadowy outof-state bogeymen, and to pro tect Florida’s own filthy and cruel factory farms.
“There is no reason that efforts intended to protect human and animal kind from misery and cruelty should be in conflict with constitutional doctrines that would prevent the most overt kind of favoritism to in-state special interests,” Smith said, citing Gorsuch, who recognized the legitimacy of ethically-motivated restrictions.
ising way of reducing the amount of animal suffering and premature death in the world. That said, I hope Smith is correct in his assessment. I don’t want progress for
nonhumans in one area to mean regression in another.
I might have supported the lawsuit regardless, because I believe the spread of cellular agriculture is the most prom-
The Author Jon Hochschartner, who lives in Connecticut, is an Activist and the Author of a number of books about animal-rights history. Visit his blog at: https:// slaughterfreeamerica.substack.com/
Author Jon Hochschartner