Sun Times Issue 09 03 20

Broward Mask Mandate...................5A Classified........................................10A Elite Auction.....................................3A Hallandale Beach.............................6A

Hollywood........................................6A Kodner Galleries...............................2A Miami-Dade Emergency Order.........4A Virtual School Eye Strain..................8A

S E P T E M B E R 3 , 2 0 2 0 • 1 0 PA G E S • V O L U M E 1 7 • I S S U E 4 8

AVENTURA • BAL HARBOUR • DANIA BEACH • HALLANDALE BEACH • HOLLYWOOD • NORTH MIAMI BEACH • PEMBROKE PINES • PEMBROKE PARK • SURFSIDE • SUNNY ISLES BEACH

Looking To Travel In A COVID-19 World?

Need to Kill Some Time Tonight?

New Measures Can Help Ease Your Comfort Level

By Howard Barbanel

It’s the end of summer and in many parts of the country it’s as hot as blazes outside. Because of an abundance of caution (or an overabundance, depending on your perspective) there still isn’t a whole lot to do at night with all the Covid-19 restrictions.

You can get something to eat outdoors, have a barbeque, go for a walk or maybe take in a swim, but after a couple of hours we invariably have to head home. And home is where the big screen is.

There have been some advances in entertainment offerings on TV, most notably the return of professional sports but forgive me for saying this – sports without a “live studio audience” just lacks the intensity it used to, it feels like I’m watching a high school practice with just the coaches and a couple of parents. Not a lot of drama. The canned background “white noise” during the games can actually be annoying.

That leaves streaming movies and series to soak up the time.

Here are some film recommendations to get you through the next few weeks.

Uncut Gems **** Adam Sandler inhabits the Tonight, Page 7A

Just this past week Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Florida would apply for President Trump’s enhanced unemployment program.

Unemployed & Uncertain time customers can point out better rates from competitors.

Asking friends and family for money can also be an important — albeit difficult — step. People would often rather help than see their loved ones face dire circumstances. Some employers will also offer a paycheck advance, as long as it’s not a reoccurring need.

Finally, research options for online installment loans. An installment loan is a great option for people who need a larger amount of cash quickly because the terms of the loan as well as the repayment plan are available upfront. That means it’s easy for a borrower to figure out if and how they can repay the loan before taking the plunge.

A new national survey commissioned by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) conducted by Morning Consult shows that a number of improvements being implemented to health and sanitation protocol at U.S. hotels would have considerable impact on guests’ comfort levels staying there, with the top three including face coverings for employees (87% a lot/some impact) and guests (85%), suspending daily housekeeping of rooms (86%), and utilizing technology to reduce direct contact (85%), are the top priorities among frequent travelers to staying in hotels during this pandemic. These priorities align with AHLA’s Safe Stay Guest Checklist and CDC recommendations distributed on behalf of the industry.

Other popular measures to increase a guest’s comfort level include adding transparent barriers at front desks, concierge or valet stations (82%), signage for

Benefits, Page 5A

COVID-19, Page 8A

How to Budget for Reduced Benefits Millions of unemployed Americans have been receiving $600 a week in addition to their unemployment as part of the Federal Government’s coronavirus relief efforts. Due to an executive order, people should still be receiving $300, with a potential additional $100 coming from state governments, but that still cuts recent benefits by as much as $1,200 a month.

For people affected by this recent decrease, here are some tips about how to make it through this difficult time. Just this past week, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Florida would apply for President Trump’s enhanced unemployment program, becoming the 33rd state to do so, though it’s unclear how long the extra benefits, which are supplied by the

Federal Emergency Management Agency, will last. Since Trump signed the executive order on August 8, 33 states have signed up for the enhanced benefits, though so far, only Arizona, Texas and Missouri have been paid.

If Unemployment Won’t Meet Essential Needs More important than anything else is to keep a family clothed, fed, and housed. If any one of these three is in danger, it’s time to see where there could be emergency money to help.

Reach out to debtors and landlords and try to negotiate a payment plan or lower rate due to unemployment. It’s also possible to negotiate reoccurring bills like Internet and cell phone packages, especially when long-

How To Protect Ourselves From Viruses & Bacteria 1st Priority Restoration Can Help, (1-800-617-1112) The world today is much different than it was just months ago, and we are all looking for answers on how to protect ourselves. With hurricane Laura, and civil unrest in the headlines, along with COVID-19 figures keeping viruses & bacteria on everyone’s mind, the uncertainty about how to avoid contracting an illness and getting sick has everyone on edge. There is no bigger issue for everyone than their health. Many of these fears we can see and prepare for, but viruses & bacteria we can’t, that can increase our anxiety. The best way to combat this fear is with knowledge. The knowledge

Popular measures to increase a guest’s comfort level include adding transparent barriers at front desks, concierge or valet stations, signage for washing hands, distancing and PPE, temporarily closing amenities and floor markings to promote social distancing.

about the proper steps to protect yourself and your loved ones outside and inside your home.

For the near future, wear a mask, sanitize yourself and your home.

This will be the new norm, so arm yourself with the facts, and that will help decrease your anxiety.

Outside of the home we have less control over our environment, but there are ways to lessen your exposure. The CDC (Centers For Disease Control) has recommendations for steps to protect yourself. First, stay home when you are sick, this will help stop the spread. Limit movement in the community,

Support Your Immune System With Grapes, 4A

establish ways to communicate with family and friends that don’t require person to person contact.

Discuss with your employer the possibility of working from home.

Clean your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

There is no bigger issue for everyone than their health.

Many of these fears we can see and prepare for, but viruses & bacteria we can’t, that can increase our anxiety.

Inside your home is where you can really make a difference in the health of your family. Viruses can be scary, but the fact of the matter is the chance of contracting it and other illness in your home can be mitigated through cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and air vents. That is where a profes-

Broward County’s Rental Assistance Has Launched, 8A

sional service such as 1st Priority Restoration can help. That nagging cough you may have should make you think twice about your health. That cough can be caused from exposure to damp and moldy environments or viruses which can lead to a vari1st Priority, Page 9A

Kodner Galleries Antiques and Much More, 2A

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New Miami-Dade County Emergency Order Allows Indoor Dining Restaurants To operate at 50% capacity Miami-Dade County issued a new Emergency Order 28-20 last week, and the order took effect on Monday, August 31. This order rescinds Emergency Order 23-20 and 26-20, and replaces those orders with Emergency Order 28-20, along with the orders’ amendments. Among other provisions, Emergency Order 28-20 allows indoor dining restaurants to operate at 50% capacity, with six people maximum at a table, social distancing and facial coverings. Restaurants are required to run their HVAC systems with the fans “on” while people are in the establishments and to keep doors and windows open to maximize the circulation of fresh air. Casinos will also be allowed to re-open, following the same rules they previously followed, but adding the restriction that consumption of food and beverages can only take place in areas designated for eating.

Food and drinks will be prohibited at the gaming tables or slot machines.

Some Details From Emergency Order 28-20: Restaurants and other food service establishments with seating for more than eight people shall close for on-premises dining between the start of the curfew as determined in Emergency

Order 27-20 and 6:00 am the next morning. Such establishments may operate their kitchens for the purpose of providing delivery services, pick-up or take out services. Employees, janitorial personnel, contractors and delivery personnel shall be allowed access to such establishments at all times.

The following establishments remain closed: Bars, pubs, night clubs, ballrooms both stand alone and incident to any hotel, banquet halls, cocktail lounges, cabarets, hookah lounges, and breweries, provided, however, that such venues, if licensed as a public food service establishment pursuant to chapter 509, Florida Statutes, may only sell food and alcoholic beverages for onsite consumption in conformance with the rules for restaurants set forth in the Handbook, a complete list of rules can be found at www. miamidade.gov/global/initiatives/ coronavirus/openings.page.

Additional establishments that must remain closed are movie theaters, concert houses, convention spaces, auditoriums, playhouses, bowling alleys, arcades, indoor amusement facilities, and adult entertainment, along with concerts, conventions, and other temporary

events, except outdoor events which may be held with appropriate social distancing, such as attendees remaining in their own cars.

Any establishment that has an onsite employee or contractor who tests positive shall close until one of the following conditions is met: a. the establishment is deepsanitized and employees who were in close contact with the positive employee or contractor have been tested and cleared by a medical professional as being COVID-19 free or do not report to work for 14 days after the date the positive employee or contractor was last onsite; or b. 14 days from the date such employee or contractor was last onsite at such establishment if deep-sanitization is not performed. Where an establishment has multiple floors or structures, or has a square footage in excess of 10,000 square feet, only those structure(s), floor(s), or area(s) where the infected person was present are required to be deep-sanitized as a condition of re-opening, and only those employees working in such structure(s), on such floor(s), or who came into contact with the positive employee or contractor must be tested or must not report to work for 14 days after

the date the positive employee was last on-site.

Under no circumstances shall an employee or contractor who has tested positive report to work at an establishment until that employee is cleared by a medical professional as being COVID-19 free.

This order does not limit the number of persons who may be physically present at any religious service. Persons attending religious services are urged, but are not required, to practice social distancing, such as keeping six feet between persons and limiting group size to that necessary to accomplish physical distancing.

Notwithstanding any other emergency order and section 3328(D)(3) of the Code to the contrary, in both the incorporated and unincorporated areas of Miami-Dade County, (a) the maximum daytime and overnight occupancy for short-term vacation rentals shall be up to a maximum of two persons per bedroom plus two additional persons per property not to exceed a maximum of ten persons, and (b), excepting short term vacation rentals where otherwise permitted that are located in structures operated in whole or in part as condominiums or hotels, new rental agreements shall not be

entered into except on a monthly basis.

After a tropical storm or hurricane warning has been issued, or after a declaration of a state of emergency due to a tropical storm or a hurricane, for all or part of Miami-Dade County: (i) hotels, motels or other commercial lodging establishments may allow in-person dining at onpremises restaurants without limitation and may exceed social distancing requirements or capacity limitations in ballrooms and meeting rooms for the purpose of temporary sheltering or other emergency response purposes, and (ii) any facility designated as a shelter pursuant to any state, county, or municipal emergency management plan, and any county or municipal facility being used for emergency management purposes, shall be exempt from social distancing requirements or capacity limitation and may allow in-person dining without limitation at such facility. These provisions allowing for the lifting of restrictions to address the community’s needs to respond to a tropical storm or a hurricane shall only be in effect for the duration of the declared emergency or hurricane or tropical storm warning unless terminated earlier by executive order.

Support Your Immune System with Grapes (Family Features) Boosting immune function through a healthy diet has become an important new focus for many people these days. One key dietary recommendation is to eat more fruits and vegetables each day to improve immune function and prevent heart disease and diabetes. When looking to guide your family to healthier snacks and meals or simply trying to mix up your at-home menu, success can be as simple as rethinking the ingredients you choose to use, including your favorite produce, such as grapes. Fresh California grapes, for example, make for an ideal snack because they are tasty, healthy, hydrating and refreshing, but grapes can also be used to make good-for-you dishes that are also satisfying and delicious.

Grapes of all colors - red, green and black - are a natural source of beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols. Plus, they are naturally fat-free, cholesterol-free and contain virtually no sodium.

Try recipes like Moroccan Grape and Grilled Chicken Bowls with Grape Vinaigrette, Spiced Chickpeas and Grapes with Yogurt, and Cauliflower Steaks with Grapes to pair heart-healthy grapes with other nutritious ingredients and add variety and fresh appeal in the kitchen.

Visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com for more nutritious family recipes.

Moroccan Grape and Grilled Chicken Bowls with Grape Vinaigrette Servings: 4 Couscous: • 1 cup Israeli couscous • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1/2 cup carrots, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced • 1/2 cup parsley, leaves only • 1 1/2 teaspoons ras el hanout • (Moroccan spice blend) • 1 teaspoon salt Chicken: • 2 chicken breasts (8 ounces each) • 1 tablespoon harissa paste • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil • 1 teaspoon salt Vinaigrette: • 1/4 cup green California grapes • 1 lemon, juice only • 1 preserved lemon, rind only • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil • 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped • salt, to taste • ground black pepper, to taste • 1 cup red California grapes, halved • 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted To make couscous: Cook couscous in boiling salted water. Drain, rinse with cold water and combine with olive oil. Add carrots, tomatoes, parsley leaves, ras el hanout and salt. Mix well and set aside.

To make chicken: Heat grill to mediumhigh heat.

Rub chicken breasts with harissa paste, olive oil and salt. Grill on both sides until just done. Set aside to cool. Slice into 1/4-inch slices.

To make vinaigrette: In blender, puree green grapes, lemon juice, lemon rind, olive oil and cilantro until smooth. Add salt and pepper, to taste.

Toss couscous mixture with vinaigrette and portion into four bowls. Top with sliced chicken, red grapes and almonds.

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Moroccan Grape and Grilled Chicken Bowls with Grape Vinaigrette Nutritional information per serving: 590 calories; 30 g protein; 44 g carbohydrates; 32 g fat (49% calories from fat); 4.5 g saturated fat (7% calories from saturated fat); 65 mg cholesterol; 720 mg sodium; 3 g fiber.

Cauliflower Steaks with Grapes Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Servings: 4 • 1 large head cauliflower, leaves trimmed off • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided • 2 teaspoons finely chopped rosemary • 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground • black pepper, divided • 1 cup halved California grapes • 1/4 cup chopped Castelvetrano olives • 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley • 2 tablespoons chopped, toasted pistachios Heat oven to 450 F. Cut stem off cauliflower and cut remaining head crosswise into four 1inch-thick slices, keeping as intact as possible. Place on sheet pan and brush

sides with 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil.

Sprinkle with rosemary, salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Roast until browned and tender, about 25 minutes.

Combine remaining olive oil, remaining pepper, grapes, olives, parsley and pistachios.

When cauliflower is roasted, transfer to serving plates and top with grape mixture.

Nutritional information per serving: 210 calories; 5 g protein; 20 g carbohydrates; 14 g fat (60% calories from fat); 2 g saturated fat (9% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 480 mg sodium; 5 g fiber.

Healthy Eating is Easy with Grapes Grapes are prized for their taste and crisp, juicy texture, but fresh grapes are also a heart-healthy, hydrating snack choice. Grapes contain more than 1,600 natural plant compounds, including antioxidants and other polyphenols, which help protect the health and function of the body’s cells. Grapes can be paired with other healthy foods to enhance flavor and nutrition, including dark leafy greens, cauliflower, broccoli, whole grains, legumes and lean proteins.

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Declining positivity rates are key to entering into Phase 2 of recovery.

Broward County Mask Mandate $100 Up To $1,000 Fine For A Violation An anticipated increase in recreational activity over the upcoming Labor Day holiday and the possibility of a resurgence in coronavirus cases as flu season approaches have prompted County officials to step up their enforcement of the mandate to wear facial coverings in public. The existing authority to enforce facial covering requirements with citations and fines was specifically stated again as part of Emergency Order 20-21, issued on July 8, 2020, as well as multiple other Emergency Orders.

Since March 1, the County has issued more than 1,680 warnings and citations to businesses who have substantiated violations of the facial cov-

ering and other operating requirements. As a result, the number of cases, hospitalizations, deaths and the overall positivity rate have declined.

Now, in an effort to keep those trends heading in a positive direction and closer to Phase 2 of a recovery, stepped up enforcement of violations of the facial covering requirement will be extended to individuals, with potential fines of up to $1,000 for those who are cited. Broward County has established a $100 fine for individuals cited for violation of the facial covering requirement.

“Every member of the community has a role to play in protecting us from the virus,” said County

Administrator Bertha Henry. “The wearing of facial coverings while in public places is a proven way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and increase the overall health of our community. We want everybody who lives in or decides to visit Broward County during this pandemic to know that we are a ‚ “mask community.”

Municipal code enforcement authorities may establish their own fines for violations of the facial covering requirements; but are encouraged to follow Broward County’s lead to reduce confusion and ensure consistency throughout the community.

The enhanced enforcement program takes effect immediately.

With the next congressional relief bill still unclear, it’s possible that even the $300 unemployment cushion could be cut, so it’s best to be prepared for an uncertain economic future.

Benefits From Page 1A If Unemployment Will Stretch With Some Budgeting For those who have been making unemployment work with a little wiggle room, here are some budgeting tips for the social distancing era.

Spend some time on the weekends setting up a cost-efficient meal plan for the rest of the week. Luckily most places are no longer looking at the grocery shortage of a few months ago, meaning it’s much easier to get stretchable staples like rice, beans, and pasta, so planning ahead can definitely pay off.

Check out what’s available online from the local library — they likely have more audiobooks, TV shows and movies than they did five years ago. There are also lots of free educational tools available nowadays, such as learning to code with Codecademy or tackling a new language with Duolingo, so people can sharpen their skills for the job search.

All Broward County Libraries currently offer Walk-up/Drive-up Service. Check branch hours as they vary by location, Hallandale Beach Branch 954-357-6380, Hollywood Beach Bernice P. Oster Branch 954-357-4798, Hollywood Branch 954357-7760, or the Stirling Road Branch 954-357-7550.

Throughout this pandemic, the Miami-Dade Public Library System has continued to serve the public through availability of digital content (e.g., eBooks, audiobooks, movies, learning resources and virtual programs), walk-up service for patrons to pick up pre-ordered library materials, and by distributing over 115,000 paper state Reemployment Assistance applications and over 21,000 Department of Children and Families Food (SNAP), Medical (Medicaid) and Temporary Cash (TANF) Assistance appli-

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cations to residents in need of obtaining economic assistance during this time.

With the reopening of the libraries, residents will now also be able to use library computers and Wi-Fi to access these and other assistance programs, conduct job searches, complete the 2020 Census online, pick up Vote-by-Mail Ballot Request Forms and copies of the County’s 2020 Hurricane Guide, and more. For more information about the Miami-Dade Public Library’s reopening plan, visit www.mdpls.org or www.miami dade.gov/newnormal. A final tip is that people who are still spending the majority of their time indoors can probably chop their data plan down a lot if they’re spending most of their cell phone hours connected to their home Wi-Fi. If Unemployment is Still Paying the Bills with Room To Spare For people who have a lower cost of living, whether due to their area, lifestyle or just not having kids, even reduced unemployment may be more than enough to make ends meet.

While it’s great to have more than enough money, that still doesn’t mean it’s time to be throwing money away. Now would be a great time to prioritize building an emergency fund with three to six months’ worth of expenses — or if that seems like too big of a target, even a cushion of $500 can help in an emergency.

With the next congressional relief bill still unclear, it’s possible that even the $300 unemployment cushion could be cut, so it’s best to be prepared for an uncertain economic future. For more on Florida unemployment assistance visit www.floridajobs.org.

Notice: Information provided in this article is for informational purposes only.

Consult your attorney or financial advisor about your current financial circumstances.

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Covid-19 Has Put a Strain On The Budget

By Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper

As we head into the Holiday weekend, I am encouraging all of our readers to remain vigilant in the fight against Covid-19.

Currently, we have seen our infection rate drop below 5% for three straight days. This does not mean we are out of the woods.

As you may have heard Dade has eased some restrictions.

Broward is still under basically the same emergency orders.

Broward Schools for the time being are opening for virtual classes only. Please remember that we need to see this number remain low for 14 straight days until we lift any other restrictions.

Wear your masks, wash your hands regularly, social distance a minimum of six feet and do not gather in groups larger than 10 people.

Over the past weeks, I have been informing our residents about our budget and important financial decisions being decided for 2020-2021. Covid-19 has put a strain on every City’s budget this year. Our fiscal year starts off in October, so we have been addressing projected shortfalls while dealing with Covid-19 expenses. We have finally worked out an agreement with Broward County. They were the recipient of the Cares Act Relief.

They could have kept the money, but are partnering by providing an allocation for specific staffing costs and project costs. This is great news for all of our Cities.

Our City has been diligently recording every dollar of Covid19 related expenditures. This will

As we head into the Holiday weekend, I am encouraging all of our readers to remain vigilant in the fight against Covid-19. help us with reimbursement. The staff and I have also been trying to establish a testing site to be hosted at the Big Easy. These dollars can be utilized to offset the staffing requirements to man and secure the site. Testing is so vitally important. Individuals that test positive must repeat testing until they test negative twice before being able to be removed from quarantine. Access to more testing, means people can get back to work. In our budget this year, we have continued to address a budget shortfall of well over a million dollars. To date, we have discussed dipping into reserves to fill this gap. During rainy days, this is what these funds are for. I want to take a moment to address questions raised about utilizing reserves.

Like many Cities we want to

make sure that we have funding during emergencies. How much has always been a debate. Our City adopted a goal of ensuring that we have a set target of 16%.

This number is set for our general fund budget which does not include enterprise funds. The General fund covers many of our staffing costs: police, fire, administration and general employees. This figure is meant to cover operational costs for a three-month period, in the event of emergencies. Based on our current budget, this figure should be approximately 11.8 million dollars.

The City also has Enterprise Funds. You can view these as small businesses within our City that provide specific services, Utilities, transportation and others. These contingency funds are

in case of emergencies. For example, Fire Fund keeps a large contingency in the event we need to replace a fire truck. We can utilize these contingencies in the event of emergencies. The backing for this logic is that these funds utilize staffing from the City. The City is starting to research this concept, rather than hitting the general fund reserves.

The City is still planning on performing some much-needed capital improvements, even during these times. We cannot kick the can down the road. We have added LED lighting to finish repairs to Three Islands, lighting replacement projects and other areas in the City. We are focused on rebuilding right.

We are on the path to fully replace our minibus system with

an electric fleet. As we plan for this project it needs to be noted that as we put funding in place, the super majority will come from the County Transportation Penny Tax and in partnership with the CRA. We are also finally implementing much needed sidewalk and crosswalk repairs throughout the City. In 2016, we performed a full assessment of theses needs. The original plan was estimated at 2.9 million dollars. We have budgeted 1.7 which will be reimbursed also through the Penny Surtax, the Community Development Block Grant Funding CDBG to improve swales and targeted sidewalk improvements.

Our Department of Public Works is planning a fire wall improvement to increase safety.

We do many in house repairs to large vehicles. The Fire wall will divide the repair area from the warehouse. They are also planning to repair our HVAC system to extend its useful life.

I will continue with our Capital Improvements Plans in next week’s article.

There is time still to fill out the census and it is super easy: www.2020census.gov As always, I am available anytime with your questions and concerns on my phone/text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can e-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org. Please visit my Facebook: MayorJoyCooper that has been reactivated. Like it, friend it, share it. Wishing you a wonderful Labor Day Weekend!

Add Your Ideas to the City of Hollywood Bicycle Mobility Plan The City of Hollywood is crafting a multi-faceted City-wide Bicycle Mobility Plan with the goal of identifying and prioritizing specific bicycle mobility projects throughout the City. The city wishes to advance complete streets principles in key commercial corridors to enhance safety and convenience for cyclists, as well as maximize funding opportunities for urban mobility improvements.

Hollywood has a strong foundation for bicycle mobility with a network of local streets surrounding a vibrant, historic downtown, a successful Complete Streets project along Hollywood Boulevard in the expanded urban core, a Comprehensive City-wide Master Plan that supports bicycle mobility, and a world-famous oceanfront promenade, the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, that is a favorite destination for cyclist of all levels.

The City’s Bicycle Mobility Plan will build on these strengths to create a connected network of safe bicycle mobility options to provide mobility and recreation

A helpful website with an interactive comment map has been created for you to easily provide your recommendations and feedback on the types of projects and bicycle mobility amenities you would like to see in Hollywood. opportunities for both residents and visitors alike.

We Need Your Help!

A helpful website with an interactive comment map has been created for you to easily provide your recommendations and feedback on the types of projects and bicycle mobility amenities you would like to see in Hollywood. Please visit: https:/

/www.hollywoodfl.org/bike to quickly access the webpage and scroll to the Public Comment Map to enter your feedback. For additional information, visit the City’s website at: https:// www.hollywoodfl.org/.

Types of Bicycle Mobility Options Multi-Purpose Path Dedicated spaces where most forms of non-motorized transport

share the same lane. Open space or a physical barrier separate these paths from vehicular traffic.

Separated Bike Lane - Also known as “Protected Bike Lanes, “separated bike lanes are located between vehicles and the curb on the street. Separated bike lanes offer a protected space from vehicle conflicts.

Buffered Bike Lanes - Similar

to conventional bike lanes, buffered bike lanes include a stripe or painted buffer that increases separation between cyclists and motorists.

Conventional Bike Lanes Consist of a striped lane at the edge of the vehicle lanes and is the most basic form of a dedicated bicycle mobility option.

Green color pavement markings typically indicate the lane.

Stay Strong Hollywood: Virtual 5K & Photo Contest The Stay Strong Hollywood Virtual 5K and Photo Contest puts you in charge of the race!

Presented by the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts, this fun and exciting challenge puts a uniquely Hollywood twist on the virtual 5k activity.

Registration Complete the registration form on the enclosed link before the deadline on Tuesday, September 8th. Upon submission of your application a member of the Special Events Staff will confirm receipt via email within 2 business days. That email will contain your registration number and a printable race bib for you to print at home, decorate and attach to yourself on the day you complete your race.

Select a photogenic Start/Finish point within the City of Hollywood.

Then, using your favorite fitness tracking app, plan a unique 5k route (3.10 miles) that brings you back to the start.

How it Works Show us your creativity!

Select a photogenic Start/Finish point within the City of Hollywood. Then, using your favorite fitness tracking app, plan a unique 5k route (3.10 miles)

that brings you back to the start.

Pick a day; either Saturday September 12th or Sunday the 13th to run or walk at your own pace and track your time. Once you’ve completed your run or walk, snap a picture of yourself

(or have a friend take it for you) posed in front of your selected start point. Be sure that your race bib and registration number are visible.

Respond to your confirmation email with your finishing time and

attach the picture you took. You must submit your time and picture by Friday, September 18th.

All winners will be posted on the PRCA event subpage and the City of Hollywood’s Facebook Page. Winning medals will be mailed to the top 3 finishing times in each of the following age groups (10 & under, 11-20, 21-30, 31-40, 41-50, 51-60, 61 and older). Judges will review all photos submitted and medals will only be awarded to the 3 best finishing photos but many of the runners up will also be posted.

Go to www.hollywoodfl.org/ FormCenter/Parks-Recreation-andCultural-Arts-11/Virtual-5K-173 to register for the event.

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Downfall

John Wick 3

Tonight From Page 1A body and soul of a heavily messed-up New York Jewish diamond merchant and compulsive sports gambler named Howard Ratner. There’s no part of his life that isn’t a rolling train wreck. He owes a fortune to his brother-in-law who happens to also be a loan shark. His marriage is cratering while he carries on an affair with one of his employees. He smuggles a giant gemstone from an Ethiopian mine into the US which he hopes will be the big ticket (once sold) that will solve all of his financial problems. He’s essentially playing roulette and putting all his chips on one number.

The pace is frantic, antic and manic all at the same time.

Sandler is so believable and impressive in this role that he carries the film single-handedly, Sandler won Best Actor at the National Board of Review and the film won Best Screenplay and rated one of the Ten Best of 2019 from the National Board, also Best Director from the New York Film Critics Circle, all in January 2020. It didn’t rate with the Golden Globes or Academy Awards though. Be prepared for a whirlwind ride, you won’t want to pause this film because there is no natural stopping point from beginning to end. “Uncut Gems” also features Julia Fox, Indina Menzel, Eric Bagosian, Judd Hirsch and even basketball great Kevin Garnett playing himself.

Other great seedy gambling flicks include Casino (*****, 1995) starring Robert DiNiro, Joe Pesci, Sharon Stone and the late Don Rickles, directed by the incomparable Martin Scorsese,

Uncut Gems this is one of the 10 must-see films of the last 40 years. The Hustler (*****, 1961) stars Paul Newman as a pool shark and George C. Scott as his sometime sponsor, manager and enabler along with Jackie Gleason in an outstanding performance as Minnesota Fats.

Downfall **** Dark, macabre and disturbing is the only way to describe this dramatization of the last two months of Berlin before it fell to the Russians in World War II. The action mainly takes place in the stiflingly claustrophobic Führerbunker, beneath the Reichs Chancellery. The movie is in German with English subtitles and it’s very total German-ness gives it serious verisimilitude.

Shot on location in Berlin, Munich and St. Petersburg, the cinematographers manage to realistically recreate a world gone mad and a city reduced to rubble. Most of the story is seen through the eyes of Hitler’s secretary, the young and pretty Traudl Junge (her book “Until The Final Hour” is one of the bases of the screenplay). Junge embodies the banality of evil (the real Junge, as an old woman, apologizes in the film) as we see Germans enraptured, even at the end, by the diabolical madman who caused the deaths of probably 30 to 50 million people. Hitler is played chillingly by Bruno Ganz and Junge by Alexandra Maria Lara.

The contrast between the roles of Hitler’s young secretary and that of Winston Churchill, Elizabeth Layton (played by Lily James in 2017’s Darkest Hour,* ****) is about as black and white as you can get. Both mov-

ies are set in bunkers in desperate times, but we see that in Nazi Germany no one questioned the madness and no one opposed it and no one revolted against it, there being a complete absence of conscience beneath Berlin.

The whole gang of Nazis are on hand, Goebbels, Speer, Himmler and Eva Braun played with magisterial nihilism by Juliane Köhler.

The film was nominated for an Oscar in 2015 for Best Foreign Film. Granz won the London Film Critics Circle Award for Best Actor. Another great claustrophobic film in German about the German experience in World War II is the original Das Boot (“The Boat” *****, 1981), Wolfgang Petersen’s riveting drama about the crew of a U-Boat patrolling in the North Atlantic towards the end of the war. Petersen was nominated for Best Director in 1983’s Academy Awards.

John Wick 3 **** The perennially and preternaturally young Keanu Reeves returns for the third installment in his “John Wick” action thriller series. In case you’ve missed this one and the prior two iterations (“John Wick,” ****, 2014 and “John Wick, Chapter 2,” ** **, 2017) this is the story of a man who only wants to be left alone. Wick wants to retire from being the world’s foremost hitman but despite his protestations gets continually dragged back into the fray – principally to defend himself, his dog and his car from the depredations of nefarious bad guys populating an international syndicate of death for hire, a modern-day Murder Incorporated if you will, but one with much more sophistication, panache, designer clothes and

its own code of honor. That Reeves is the good guy (even though he was an assassin himself) amidst all the psychotic evil is what gives the films something of a moral backbone.

If you’ve not seen Wick and Wick 2, it’s not a tragedy but to truly appreciate the thrust of Wick 3, you might want to catch Wick 2 beforehand because Wick 3 picks up minutes after the end of Wick 2. In a nutshell, there is a $14 million contract out on Reeves because in his quest for vengeance in Wick 2 he violated one of the cardinal rules of the death syndicate. This sets-up a worldwide competition among the very crème de la crème of murderers and assassins to collect this hefty bounty. The thing about John Wick is that he may get battered, he may get bruised, but he can’t be killed, probably because the franchise to far too lucrative.

In his quest for survival, Wick engages in some of the best choreographed cinematic martial arts violence ever filmed. He makes Bruce Lee seem like an amateur. It’s impossible to keep track of the body count but somehow the violence is integral, not gratuitous. Joining the cast of Wick 3 are Halle Berry, who proves she is still red hot at 54 and Laurence Fishburne who always lends gravitas to the improbable.

Fishbourne is reunited with Reeves here. They worked together on The Matrix trilogy (*****, 1999, 2003) and you won’t be disappointed by this reunion. Rounding out the cast are the luminescent Anjelica Huston as a Russian Mafia matriarch and Ian McShane as the ever-so-dapper head of the New York branch the “High Table,” which runs international iniquity.

Great sets, locations and cinematography as befits a bigbudget action thriller. No awards here other than the raves demonstrated by the $326 million garnered at the box office.

Peppermint **** If after John Wick you’ve not had enough of vengeance and martial arts, you may want to take a female turn on the genre.

Jennifer Garner (who also played the Marvel superhero Electra, 2005) is now 48 and clearly drinks from the same fountain of youth as Halle Berry. In “Peppermint,” Garner plays Riley North who awakens from a coma after witnessing the horrific murder of her husband and young daughter in a Los Angles gangland drive-by shooting. The justice system is owned by the Cartel, so the killers go free.

Garner goes underground for a few years and transforms herself from a housewife into a ruthless crusader for revenge, cutting a swath of blood through legions of miscreants along with the men who murdered her family.

Wrongful corruption in the police and courts is rectified at Garner’s hands. This is a modern-day Death Wish (****, 1974) from the female perspective. Garner is much better looking than the late Charles Bronson and possesses martial arts skills that Bronson could only dream of, but the theme is the same, murder avenged, apathetic or corrupt cops circumvented and justice done.

Garner carries this movie entirely. If you’re looking for standout performances from costars, you won’t find it here, but worth the quick 102 minutes.

Premiered in 2018.

How Does COVID-19 Affect Retirement Planning?

By Dennis Notchick, CFP

The United States is mired in its worst unemployment since the The Great Depression of 90 years ago. Indeed, COVID-19 has stunted our once-robust economy in many ways.

But at the same time, there is this curious occurrence: Equity valuations in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq have hit an all-time high.

How does that happen with some of the worst economic conditions in our nation’s history? One of the main reasons: Much of the money dispensed by the Federal Reserve during the pandemic isn’t trickling down to consumers and labor markets, but rather, it’s being reinvested in financial assets, inflating their value. This fresh injection of capital into the money supply can often lead to hyper-inflation for healthcare, housing, and other essential goods that are needed to sustain life. As an example, a recent report from the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) found a senior couple could need as much $325,000 to have a 90% chance of covering their out-ofpocket costs including Medicare premiums and prescription drugs.

The horrific economic effects of the pandemic have pushed the Federal Reserve to spend trillions of dollars since April in many different ways. They also used the playbook from the Great Financial Crisis and Great Recession of 2008 – low/zero interest rates in the corporate credit market - hoping that these rates would stimulate corporate spending, and in turn spark employment.

forward to help stabilize the economy, most tax planners are preparing for higher tax rates in the future. It is critical to take advantage of the low tax rates now to reduce your taxes in the future. While we can’t control the return of our investments, we can control the taxes. Perhaps a small tax bill now will keep you from a large tax bill later.

The pandemic may affect or push back the retirement plans you made several years ago, but take comfort in the money you’ve saved and know that you can regain some control of your plan with patience.

But the forbidding economic environment in which we’re living renders that approach ineffective. Why? Ask yourself: Given the precipitous drop in consumer demand during the pandemic, why would corporations spend to produce goods and services if most customers are more likely to stay home?

So regardless of the amount of money the government prints to subsidize corporate credit markets, little if any corporate spending is on new employment.

Instead, many businesses are stashing cash accumulated from government-subsidized bond offerings. This in turn paints a long road back to full employment, essential for the growth of GDP. What does all of this mean as you are planning for

your retirement in the midst of this uncertain time? It means you need to know how to minimize COVID-19’s impact on your retirement savings.

Given these factors, it’s all the more important for those near retirement or in retirement to consider these steps: Update return expectations for bonds - The Federal Reserve has made it clear they will support credit markets with zero interest rate policies to 2022 and beyond.

Most investors in retirement don’t have all of their assets in stocks, but say 50% stocks and 50% bonds. If half of the portfolio has a lower return expectation, the total return of the portfolio may not be enough to keep up with inflation and the

cost of living. Since many retirees are living well into their 80s and 90s, it’s important to revisit the stock-to-bond ratio to ensure you are giving yourself the best chance to keep up with the ever rising costs of life over your retirement.

Diversify your stock portfolio Adding new stocks to your portfolio for companies that haven’t been hurt by COVID-19 could help you adjust to market changes. The work-from-home movement was already underway, COVID 19 just accelerated it and there are many companies that are positioned well to take advantage.

Plan for higher taxes - With the trillions of dollars of national debt issued this year and moving

Stay invested - Many portfolios got hammered in the first couple of months of the pandemic. But despite the uncertainty and volatility of these times, it’s advisable for pre-retirees to stay invested in equities. Staying invested is usually wise, because history shows equity investments will recover in time, however it is more important now than ever to know what you own.

Review and re-evaluate Current circumstances necessitate reviewing your entire retirement plan. Work with your financial advisor to adjust where needed. A job loss or other reasons for less income means you’ll fall behind on the savings rate you expected, and that could mean possibly delaying retirement. Spending less or working longer can help you recover some of the pandemicrelated losses. As circumstances change, revisit your plan.

The pandemic may affect or push back the retirement plans you made several years ago, but take comfort in the money you’ve saved and know that you can regain some control of your plan with patience, careful thought, and wise actions.

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COVID-19 From Page 1A washing hands, distancing and PPE (80%), temporarily closing amenities (77%) and floor markings to promote social distancing (77%). The overwhelming majority of respondents indicate that these protocols would impact their comfort level, with eight out of ten (81%) frequent travelers responding that they feel comfortable staying in a hotel that has implemented the enhanced cleaning and safety protocols called for in AHLA’s Safe Stay initiative.

Among the key findings of travelers staying in hotel’s five or more nights per year: Cleanliness Is the Top Priority: Out of a list of nine options, frequent travelers most often chose cleanliness as the most important factor when determining their next hotel stay, and 81% of travelers are more comfortable staying at hotels now with enhanced protocols and standards implemented.

Guests Prefer Housekeeping

by Request Only: Nearly nine out of ten (88%) frequent travelers say that limiting in-room housekeeping to “by request only” would increase their comfort level. Nearly three-in-five (58%) guests do not want daily housekeeping; and 58% would not be comfortable with housekeeping staff entering their room without

advance permission.

The Use of Face Coverings is a Priority: The majority of guests (62%) are a lot more comfortable if hotels require face coverings and 66% of guests are a lot more comfortable if hotels require employees to wear face coverings and gloves. The pandemic has decimated the hotel industry as travel has slowed significantly throughout the last few months.

The fall looks to be equally as challenging, with only one-third of frequent travelers (33%) expecting their next hotel stay to be within the next three months, 18 percent within three to six months, and 25 percent in 6-12 months.

“The hotel industry united to enhance our already rigorous cleaning protocols for the health and safety of our guests, and it’s working,” said Chip Rogers, president and CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. “It’s more important than ever that guests follow our Safe Stay Guest Checklist, so they understand what is expected of them no matter where they stay. Travelers across the country looking to include a hotel stay in their upcoming vacation plans know that with the implementation of Safe Stay, hotels will be safer and cleaner than ever before.”

AHLA recently released the “Safe Stay Guest Checklist” for guests on how to travel safely while also creating a standard-

ized safety experience nationwide, which includes several requirements such as the use of face coverings and limiting daily room cleaning. This checklist is part of AHLA’s Safe Stay guidelines, an industry-wide, enhanced set of health and safety protocols designed to provide a safe and clean environment for all hotel guests and employees.

Considerations for Types of Travel Travel increases your chances of getting and spreading COVID-19. Your chances of getting COVID-19 while traveling also depend on whether you and those around you take steps to protect yourself and others, such as wearing masks and staying 6 feet away from people outside your household (social distancing).

Airports, bus stations, train stations, and rest stops are all places travelers can be exposed to the virus in the air and on surfaces. These are also places where it can be hard to social distance. In general, the longer you are around a person with COVID-19, the more likely you are to get infected.

Air Travel Air travel requires spending time in security lines and airport

terminals, which can bring you in close contact with other people and frequently touched surfaces.

Most viruses and other germs do not spread easily on flights because of how air circulates and is filtered on airplanes.

Bus or Train Travel Traveling on buses and trains for any length of time can involve sitting or standing within 6 feet of others, which may increase your risk of getting COVID-19. If you choose to travel by bus or train,

However, social distancing is difficult on crowded flights, and sitting within 6 feet of others, sometimes for hours, may increase your risk of getting COVID-19.

Also consider how you get to and from the airport, as public transportation and ridesharing can increase your chances of being exposed to the virus.

learn what you can do to protect yourself on public transportation.

Car Travel Making stops along the way for gas, food, or bathroom breaks can put you and your traveling companions in close contact with other people and frequently-touched surfaces.

Virtual School Means Eye Strain For Kids This school year is beginning in much the way the last one ended, with many districts opting for virtual learning, which means

optometrist, clinical management expert, and author.

“Spending too much time in front of screens on computers,

Reading difficulties and attention problems are often the result of eye muscle, visual processing, and function problems. children sit at home in front of computer screens rather than in a classroom in front of teachers.

But that extra screen time – mixed with the screen time many children and teenagers spend on their own – brings with it the potential for serious eye strain, says Dr. Jeff Kegarise, an

phones and tablets can lead to headaches, blurry vision, dry eyes and more,” Kegarise says.

“Gritty, scratchy, watery, or irritated eyes can be common because of all the digital devices people use these days.”

And if things aren’t bad enough, even without this added

time staring at computers, about one-fourth of children in the U.S. have a vision problem significant enough to affect their performance in school, Kegarise says. It’s not unusual for some children to spend hours staring at a video game screen, perhaps so caught up in the game’s action that they fail to notice or care about any eye discomfort that results.

Add several hours of online school, though, and eye strain becomes more difficult to ignore.

Kegarise says parents can help their children alleviate some of the eye strain by making sure they do the following: Take breaks - To a certain extent, students won’t have control over this because teachers

will decide when breaks happen during the school day. But ideally, they should take a break from the screen every 30 minutes, Kegarise says.

Choose the right lighting - The type of lighting used in the student’s work space can make a difference. Incandescent lights work better than fluorescent lights because they give off less glare, Kegarise says. “It’s also better if the light is placed over your shoulder than if it’s shining straight down on the screen because that will cause fewer reflections,” he says.

Adjust the position of the computer - The computer monitor and the keyboard should be positioned to conform with the child’s size. Make sure the screen isn’t too high in the child’s field of view. A report by the National Institutes of Health suggests an adjustable chair is the best option to get height just right.

Remind them to blink - Parents should remind children to blink when they spend a lot of time in front of a screen. That helps spread tears across the eyes, keeping the eyes lubricated and aiding in the prevention of dry eyes, Kegarise says. Even without all this added screen time, children often develop vision issues that hurt their performance in school and sports, Kegarise says. Forty percent of children develop nearsightedness, he says, and it’s an even higher percentage for those who have a parent who is nearsighted. “In addition, reading difficulties and attention problems are often the result of eye muscle, visual processing, and function problems.” Kegarise says.

“Parents who feel that their child has a tougher time reading and comprehending than others should consider an eye exam for them. It’s possible through vision therapy to make life-changing and long-lasting improvements to their learning and confidence.”

Broward County’s Rental Assistance Program Has Launched Applications will be accepted online through September 6 Broward County launched its residential online rental assistance program at 8AM this morning. Qualified residents impacted

by COVID-19 are now able to apply online for up to five months of rental assistance in a program made possible by the Broward County Commission and funded through federal CARES Act money. The $25 million program provides between 60% and 75% of assistance to qualified residents for unpaid rents between April and August. Landlords must

agree to participate and accept the partial rent as full payment.

Payments are made to landlords.

Applications will be accepted online only until Sunday, September 6 at 10PM. Applications will be processed

by Broward County Family Success Division, and assistance will be disbursed so long as funds are available.

Residents are cautioned that significant documentation is required and should be gathered prior to beginning the online

application process, which must be completed in one sitting. The submission process is safe, secure and protective of confidential information included in submitted documents.

Successful submission of an application is not a guarantee of funding. After processing is complete, applicants will be notified via email if they are eligible.

Landlords are not able to apply on behalf of their tenant(s) but are encouraged to review and sign documents as asked by

The $25 million Rental Assistance Program provides between 60% and 75% of assistance to qualified residents for unpaid rents between April and August. their tenant(s) on a timely basis to facilitate their tenant’s online application process. For details and to apply, visit Broward.org/ CARES or call 954-831-2380.

Finally, tenants determined to be not eligible for this program are reminded that there are a variety of assistance programs available to help residents in need of assistance through these

difficult times. Regardless of whether or not your loss of income is related to COVID-19, if you and your family are in need of assistance, please visit Broward County’s Family Success website (www.broward . o rg / F a m i l y S u c c e s s / P a g e s / COVID-19-Resources.aspx) to see what other resources might be available.

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Harmful Mold & Mildew Can Be Controlled

By Calling 1st Priority Restoration, You Are Making The Right Choice - (1-800-617-1112) 1st Priority From Page 1A ety of health effects that aren’t related to the Coronavirus, but certainly can affect your health in a negative way. Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, molds can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or, in some cases, skin irritation. People with mold allergies may have more severe reactions. People with chronic lung illnesses may get serious infections in their lungs when they are exposed to mold.

Ever wonder why you or your children wake up coughing and sneezing on a regular basis? The CDC may have the answer.

According to the CDC in 2004 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found there was sufficient evidence to link indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, coughing, and wheezing in otherwise healthy people and in individuals susceptible with compromised immune conditions. Mold or mold spores may cause asthma attacks in people who have asthma and are allergic to mold.

Even in some nonallergic individuals, mold can cause symptoms of irritation in the eyes, skin, and airways. For example, the “black mold” Stachybotrys, along with some other types of mold, produces toxins known as mycotoxins that can cause irritation of the skin and airways in susceptible individuals.

Sometimes, people may develop severe reactions to mold exposure. Symptoms of severe reactions, which are uncommon, include fever and difficulty breathing.

Mold & Viruses And Your Home Mold and viruses are found both indoors and outdoors. They can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold and viruses in the air outside can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, bags, and pets can and be carried indoors.

Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery. With all the rain and storms we have been having these past months, you can see a pattern of mold growth that will last. From leaks, and driving rain, mold growth is a certainty in South Florida. If you are concerned, you might have a mold or mildew problem it’s best to call professionals for a complete evaluation of your home.

Your health is your most important asset, so just like you go see a doctor for a test, your home health needs testing as well.

Never Fool Around With Mold & Mildew When it comes to mold and mildew, we cannot take those potential hazards lightly. A mold problem can cause you to experience dizziness, anxiety and depression. If you have been experiencing a diminished attention span or problems with your memory, it might be a good idea to have your home inspected for black mold by a mold remediation crew. For people sensitive to

Mold & viruses can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems.

Your health is your most important asset, so just like you go see a doctor for a test, your home health needs testing as well.

With viruses & bacteria on everyone’s mind and in the headlines the uncertainty about how to avoid contracting an illness has everyone on edge. mold, inhaling or touching mold spores can cause allergic reactions, including sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash.

People with serious mold allergies may have more severe reactions, including shortness of breath.

At 1st Priority Restoration, this is what they do 365 days a year, and nobody knows how to prevent potential dangers like they do – and by dialing 1-800-617-1112 – you can save financially - as well as with your health!

Very Important Information There are some important ways we can prevent the spread of mold. Keep an eye out for hidden leaks: Wet spots on your ceiling, at the baseboards or on the floor are a telltale sign of a leaky pipe or roof. Your homes pipes are behind drywall, which can leave a small leak unnoticed.

Mold can grow behind those walls and filter into the air through ducts or pipes. At 1st Priority, they can come in and assess the situation before it gets worse. Did you know that many air conditioners, especially window units, are susceptible to

mold growth! They often trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for spores. Bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms create a lot of excess heat and humidity, especially here in south Florida – whether it be from a shower, stove or even a dryer. All three of these areas should be well ventilated.

Education is key to anything – and when our health is at stake – knowing that mold spores can lay dormant for years after they are produced and could begin growing at any time is extremely important to know. Because of this, regular cleaning and having 1st Priority Restoration to depend on, will certainly make our lives much easier.

Experience Is Everything With decades in the business, 1st Priority Restoration is a reputable company with over 20 employees that are licensed and insured. They have been doing all types of cleaning and water damage restoration for more than a decade. “We use the most efficient cleaning and water removal equipment to make sure that our customers are satisfied

with the job we do for them. We try to use nontoxic “Green” safe chemicals for all mildew treatments.” “In all the years that we have been helping customers with water damage, they are pleased with the work that we do. We have never received a single complaint, and that has to speak volumes!”

Year Round Service Providing a complete cleaning job has become 1st Priority Restoration’s trademark. What continues to separate them from anyone else is they can take care of all of your cleaning and water damage problems, conduct leak and mold detections, all while working with your insurance

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company and adjuster. By calling 1st Priority Restoration, you are getting a business that understands it all - and is ready to spring into action 12 months a year. From ceiling repair, drywall replacement, structural damage, roof leaks, floor repair, furniture cleaning, mold removal and treatments, they have it all covered.

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Creating a Stable Back-to-School Routine for Children If there’s one thing parents know, it’s children thrive on routines. When it seems like everything is changing, routines can create stability.

“When children know what to expect, they don’t feel powerless and out of control,” said Rashelle Chase from KinderCare Learning Centers’ education team.

“Children like to plan just as much as adults do. When they know what will happen next, they can set their expectations.”

Routines can also help children regulate their emotions and avoid meltdowns or outbursts - because their days follow a pattern and are predictable. There’s typically a sense of comfort in knowing what comes next.

Whether your child’s back-toschool routine includes actually going to school or distance learning, consider these tips to help create a sense of stability.

Set a schedule Talk with your child about his or her school day and how it will be different. Work together to come up with ways you can both ease into the new routine, whether your child is attending school part time, learning at

right now whether it’s in reaction to an abnormal start to the school year or other factors that impact daily life. The difference is adults can contextualize a situation and adjust their reactions. Children haven’t yet mastered those skills, so they react based on whatever nugget of information they have.

home or going to a childcare center or program. Remember, little things can help create a sense of routine and stability.

Even if your child is learning at home and could stay in pajamas all day, something as small as getting dressed in school clothes and brushing their teeth before sitting down for lessons can signal it’s time to study.

Be flexible - The things that make school fun - whatever that

may be for your child - aren’t at home. However, there are some things you can do at home, like eat a snack while studying or play with toys, that you cannot do at school that make learning more enjoyable. Be sure to build breaks into your child’s day.

Knowing there will be something fun after the next lesson can give your child something to look forward to and help him or her settle down to complete the task at hand. Plus, those breaks can

be an opportunity for parents to get some work done, too.

Talk with your child and with his or her teachers: Perhaps those 30 minutes of reading don’t have to be done midmorning when your child is restless. Instead, maybe your family could do 30 minutes of reading before bed when your child is calmer.

Talk it out - Nearly everyone is experiencing strong emotions

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Home is a safe place for most children, which means they know they can express their feelings freely. That may mean slamming laptops or books down in frustration, yelling or using hurtful words. Your child might be upset because he or she doesn’t understand the schoolwork or might be afraid for safety or the safety of loved ones during these uncertain times. Talk with your child about his or her feelings and work together to find healthy ways to express those emotions, like taking three deep breaths or using a physical activity to vent, instead of keeping those feelings pent-up inside.

Difference and change don’t have to mean chaos and uncertainty. With a bit of thought and a stable routine, parents can help their children have an enjoyable, productive school year.

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