After passing the State exam, licensed Sales Associates cannot offer real estate services to the public on their own.
As usual, an answer to this week’s headline question is more involved than it may initially seem. Before trying to arrive at one, we first need to define, discuss, and expand on the following terms:
®
• REALTOR
• Agency relationships
• State business or
• professional licensee
REALTOR® REALTOR® (all capitals, Registered trademark symbol) can only be used by members of the National Association of REALTORS®. The NAR is a SemiVoluntary Membership Trade Organization of individuals from all 50 States, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands who hold real estate licenses.
The term REALTOR® identifies a person as being a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. Members must hold current State-issued licenses to provide real estate serv-
Estate, Page 2A
Rock ‘N’ Roll On The Beach
Tribute Act Series Lights Up The Loop With Legendary Hits From Iconic Tribute Acts
In February, feel the love under the stars with a lineup dedicated to songs of love and harmony.
Everyone under the sun is invited to join The LOOP for the ultimate backstage pass to iconic music under the stars! The Ninth Annual Friday Night Sound Waves “Backstage Pass” series lights up Las Olas Oceanside Park with legendary hits from iconic tribute acts. The free concert series will take place every Friday, from February 14th to March 28th, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. In February, feel the love under the stars with a lineup dedicated to songs of love and harmony, starting with Divas of Soul in a
and
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Christopher Carter - Special To The Sun Times
the MLS.
All member real estate offices and their individual licensees agree to follow the NAR’s policies, standards, and rules. The NAR does not set commission amounts, nor do they establish brokerage relationships between its members and sellers or buyers.
Both of those are negotiated directly with local brokers who will be providing real estate services.
In addition to promoting their Code of Ethics, the NAR has very strict rules regarding the proper use of their trademarked logos and the term REALTOR®, emphasizing that it should not be used as a job description.
REALTOR® = member of the NAR
The NAR expresses their Vision “To empower REALTORS® as they preserve, protect and advance the right to real property for all.” To that end, the NAR supports an extremely powerful political lobbying effort at the National and State levels through their Political Action Committee, funded by members’ voluntary contributions. As stated on the NAR website: “The REALTORS® Political Action Committee and other political fundraising are the keys to protecting and promoting the real estate industry.”
Through continued public use, the term “realtor” (lower case, no trademark symbol) is often used as a job description for people who have real estate licenses and offer their services to sellers and buyers for paid compensation.
• The term REALTOR® refers to a real estate licensee who is also a member of the National Association of REALTORS® trade organization and has agreed to follow its policies, standards, and rules.
Agency Relationships
In all types of businesses, there are agency relationships in which one person (the agent) performs duties and interacts with a third party at the instruction and for the benefit of another (the principal). Agency relationships are fiduciary, meaning the agent must put the principal’s interests above her or his own, working for the best possible result and outcome for the principal.
An agreement between both parties documents the agent’s duties, time period for the relationship, scope of the agent’s work, limits of the agent’s authority, and compensation to be paid. Agents often have specialized training, knowledge, or skills that help principals accomplish their defined business goals.
General examples of agency relationships can be:
• Attorney - Client
• Financial Advisor - Investor
• Employer - Employee
Allowed residential real estate brokerage relationships in Florida are:
• Transaction Broker - the default, non-fiduciary, non-agency relationship between a seller or buyer and a real estate broker. Transaction Broker licensees do not work for individual sellers or buyers, they work to facilitate the transaction for both parties. Most residential real estate sales in Florida (thought to be well over 90%) are handled under Transaction Broker relationships in which sellers and buyers are referred to as customers, not clients. Here is a direct link to my more detailed discussion on the topic: https://naplessellersagent.com/florida-realestate-blog/f/floridas-best-kept-real-estatesecret-transaction-brokerage
• Single-Agent - a fiduciary, in-writing agency relationship in which the real estate licensee and broker work to promote and protect seller or buyer interests. Under Single-Agent relationships, licensees work for either the seller or the buyer, never both. Sellers and buyers are considered clients, not customers under Single-Agent relationships.
• No Brokerage - the real estate licensee and broker have neither of the above relationships with the seller or buyer, therefore no duties of disclosure, confidentiality, or service apply. No Broker means exactly what it says, the seller or buyer is not being represented in any way by the real estate licensee and broker who are involved in the deal, though the No Brokerage licensee still wants to receive a commission.
Any agreement and brokerage relationship between real estate licensees and sellers or buyers is with the real estate office’s broker, NOT the individual licensee. A Sales Associate may be the direct contact person and do most of the work, though agreements and relationships for real estate services are between a seller or buyer and the office’s supervising broker.
In residential real estate, the brokerage relationship is documented in either the Listing Agreement with a seller, or the Buyer Broker Agreement with a buyer.
Speak with a Florida-licensed real estate attorney for interpretation and application to specific circumstances regarding agency and brokerage relationships.
Transaction Broker has been the default relationship in Florida since 2003, though has not required a separate written
disclosure to sellers or buyers since July
2008. Transaction Brokerage automatically applies unless and until another relationship (Single-Agent or No Brokerage) is agreed to in writing.
• An agent has a fiduciary relationship with another person (the principal), putting that person’s business interests above the agent’s, following the principal’s lawful instructions, negotiating and making decisions promoting the best possible outcome for the principal.
Real Estate Licensee
All States have laws governing real estate sales and transfers within their borders. These laws include requirements and procedures for obtaining a license to offer real estate services to the public for paid compensation.
The Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC), a division of the Department of Business & Professional Regulation, “...was created to protect the public through education and regulation of Real Estate licensees.”
First-time applicants for Florida real estate licenses must:
• Be at least 18 years old and have a Social Security number
• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
• Pass a 63-hour pre-license course from a FREC approved provider
• Complete an application and pay required fees
• Have a background check performed with fingerprints submitted to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
• Pass the State licensing exam
After passing the State exam, licensed Sales Associates cannot offer real estate services to the public on their own, they must affiliate with (and work under the supervision of) a Florida-licensed real estate broker. Most new licensees affiliate with broker offices where they can receive guidance on the practical application of what they learned in their pre-license courses.
Florida real estate licenses must be renewed every 2 years. During the first renewal cycle after initial licensing, Sales Associates are required to complete a 45hour post-licensure course. For each subsequent 2-year renewal, licensees must complete a 14-hour Continuing Education course.
Renewal CE includes 3 hours of Florida legal updates, 3 hours of Ethics & Business Practices, and 8 hours of specialty training. Even if they are not members of the NAR, Florida licensees receive
regular training in Business Ethics. (BTWthe unlicensed practice of real estate is a third-degree felony in Florida.)
• States establish requirements for the training, licensing, and conduct of individuals who want to provide real estate services to the public for compensation. Completing periodic Continuing Education is an integral part of maintaining a valid, current real estate license.
That’s it for this week, a brief introduction to State real estate licensing, brokerage relationships, and use of the term REALTOR®. Let’s approach this week’s headline question with a few observations:
• The term REALTOR® is trademarked and only allowed to be used by dues-paying members of the National Association of REALTORS®. It is often used by the public as a job description (“realtor”).
• REALTORS® must hold State-issued real estate licenses, though individual licensees are not required to join the NAR unless they want to (or their brokers/offices require membership, or they want unrestricted access to the local MLS).
• In Florida, a licensee or REALTOR® is only acting as a real estate agent when working under a written Single-Agent relationship agreement with a seller or buyer. Transaction Broker (the most common relationship by far) is a non-agency relationship.
So our answer is sometimes. A Florida REALTOR® or licensee can only be a real estate agent if she or he is working under a Single-Agent relationship with a seller or buyer.
There we are - a brief introduction to the differences, yet connections between REALTORS®, real estate agents, and real estate licensees. All 3 are closely related, and different combinations of them affect how they apply to the practice of real estate in Florida. Keep today’s discussion in mind the next time you interview licensees to handle your sale or purchase.
Do you want to be a customer...or a client?
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
In Florida, a licensee or REALTOR® is only acting as a real estate agent when working under a written Single-Agent relationship agreement with a seller or buyer. Transaction Broker (the most common relationship by far) is a non-agency relationship.
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.
The Time Has Come For Rosemary’s
The much-anticipated opening for Rosemary’s Wynwood has arrived! The beloved Italian neighborhood restaurant from New York City will open in the heart of Wynwood located at 322 Northwest 25th Street, Miami, Florida 33127 on Friday, February 7th, 2025. The brainchild of Casa Nela Hospitality Group Founder/ Owner Carlos Suarez, Rosemary’s Miami is a bit of a homecoming for the CubanEnglish restaurateur, whose family called Miami home for close to 20 years. “The foundation of the Rosemary’s concept is comfort, a space to step out of your busy life for a moment and enjoy delicious food at affordable prices in a place that evokes the feel of the Italian countryside.”
To that end, and much like its northern predecessor, Rosemary’s Wynwood is firmly planting its roots by repurposing a single-story shoe warehouse and adjacent empty lot, transforming them into a lush oasis for al fresco dining, set amidst an urban farm inspired by the Tuscan coun-
Experience History & Culture
During L’Chaim: A Toast To The Jewish Legacy Of Broadway
In an enchanting celebration of music, history and heritage, the City of Aventura presents L’Chaim: A Toast to the Jewish Legacy of Broadway on Wednesday, February 19th at 8:00 p.m. and Thursday, February 20th at 8:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center.
A musical journey from the stages of New York’s lower east side to the bright lights of Broadway, L’Chaim: A Toast to the Jewish Legacy of Broadway is a musical journey that pays tribute to the Jewish legacy of musical theater by exploring and celebrating the unique role of Jewish composers and lyricists from Irving Berlin to the Gershwins, from Stephen Schwartz to Stephen Sondheim, and Kander & Ebb and Bock & Harnick. In the production, four Jewish performers accompanied by a live band deliver iconic songs and share the historical stories that go with them. This unforgettable performance takes audiences on a musical journey from the humble stages of New York’s Lower East Side to the dazzling lights of Broadway, highlighting the profound influence of Jewish composers and lyricists who shaped the world of musical theater.
Audiences will experience the timeless melodies and beloved lyrics that have defined Broadway, while discovering the cultural and historical significance of the Jewish legacy in the arts.
to all shows are
tryside, developed in partnership with Miami’s Little River Cooperative. In fact, partnerships and collaborations with hometown heroes and organizations such as Little River Cooperative is a foundational aspect of the Rosemary’s brand. No doubt, Rosemary’s Wynwood will deliver a thoughtful and elevated dining experience rooted in sustainability and locally sourced ingredients while reminding the wider community that great design and food can be approachable.
At the helm in Miami is Executive Chef Craig Giunta, whose impressive vitae includes Mother Wolf, Concours Club, and Macchialina. At Rosemary’s, Giunta will focus on locally sourced ingredients –many of which will be grown in the restaurant’s garden, emulating the West Village location’s famed rooftop farm. The menu – echoing Rosemary’s deep-rooted connection to the land – will showcase a variety of seasonal vegetables, handmade pastas, and fresh seafood. Diners can
expect an array of Focaccia, along with house favorites such as Eggplant Caponata with Roasted Vegetables, Pine Nuts and Agrodolce; Orecchiette with House-Made Sausage, Broccoli Rabe, Fresno Chili and Parmigiano; and Chopped Salad “Siciliana” with Escarole, Olives, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Artichokes, Crispy Chickpeas, Ricotta Salata and Almonds. For dessert, guests can indulge in the popular Olive Oil Cake, Tiramisu and Bombolini with Nutella Crema. A creative cocktail list will offer Italian Spritzes, zero-proof libations, and twists on the classics. The Wine List will feature Italian Wines, curated to complement the menu.
Rosemary’s is named after Suarez’s mother and pays tribute to her delicious, made-with-love home-cooked meals and the vegetable garden she tends in Lucca, Italy. It was the glow of these memories that sowed the seeds for what would become Rosemary’s – a restaurant that
evokes the spirit of a family dining room warmed by the craft and the affection emanating from the kitchen. Combining a relaxed, botanical design, polished yet hospitality-focused service style, and delicious, reasonably-priced food, Rosemary’s is the type of neighborhood restaurant any neighborhood wants and deserves.
Designed by NYC interior design firm Dekar Design, who created all seven Casa Nela restaurants, the 7,000 square foot indoor-outdoor space weaves rustic charm with modern touches.
Rosemary’s will open to the public on Friday, February 7th, 2025. Address: 322 Northwest 25th Street in Wynwood, Florida 33127. Dinner: 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Daily. Lunch, Brunch, and Happy Hour coming soon. For additional information, please click: www.rosemarysnyc.com/location/miami Stay up-to-date on Social Media: @rosemarysrestaurant.
Maple Brook Burratta
Steak by Daniel Kieger
Much like its northern predecessor, Rosemary’s Wynwood is firmly planting its roots,
Orecchiette
Chopped Salad
Stinger Pizza
Rock ‘N’ Roll
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cert presented by the Bad Boys of Reggae, Inner Circle, honoring South Florida Reggae Month on February 21st. The month concludes on a high note with Pat Benatar’s powerful Rock anthems on February 28th. Experience iconic hits like “Heartbreaker,” “Love is a Battlefield,” and “We Live for Love”—each song echoing the passion and intensity of Love, ensuring the month ends as vibrantly as it began.
Presented by the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Beach Business Improvement District, Friday Night Sound Waves welcomes locals and visitors, the young and the young at heart, to enjoy some of South Florida’s best musical talents, performing an eclectic range of genres. The series is sponsored by Audacy, 102.7 The Beach.
Scheduled performances include:
February:
February 14th at 7:00 p.m.: Divas of Soul featuring Latraia Savage: Immerse in an evening of soul and power with Latraia Savage as she pays homage to the incomparable Diana Ross. This special performance will not only highlight the timeless hits of Ross but also feature beloved love songs and classics from Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Donna Summer, Tina Turner and more. Savage brings her own unique flair and powerful vocals to each song, creating an unforgettable experience that spans the spectrum of music history’s most influential women. Celebrate love and empowerment in a night filled with the most memorable music from the queens of Pop, Soul and Rock.
February 21st at 7:00 p.m.: ONE LOVE: February 21st: Third World with special guest Kumar Fyah – One Love: A Special Reggae Month Celebration, presented by Inner Circle: Join The LOOP for an evening of unity, love and timeless Reggae rhythms.
Presented by Inner Circle as part of Reggae Month South Florida 2025, and hosted by Hot 105 FM radio personality, Tanto Irie, this unforgettable evening celebrates the enduring legacy of Reggae music with performances by legendary Reggae ambassadors Third World and rising star Kumar Fyah.
Blending roots Reggae and Sweet Soul, Third World has been a force in the music scene since the 1970’s, delivering international hits like “Now That We Found Love,” “96° in the Shade” and “Cool Meditation.” With their mellow grooves and carefully crafted sound, they have solidified their place as one of the most iconic Reggae bands in history. Opening the evening is Kumar Fyah, whose soulful voice and inspiring songwriting have captivated audiences worldwide. Formerly the frontman of the Grammy-nominated band Raging Fyah, Kumar’s music speaks of strength, redemption and universal love. His performances have earned him the opportunity to tour with legends like UB40, further cementing his reputation as a torchbearer of modern Reggae.
This event is part of Reggae Month South Florida 2025, a month-long celebration spotlighting the global influence of Reggae music and culture while promoting Jamaican artists, businesses and entrepreneurs. Hosted by Reggae icons Inner Circle, Reggae Month has become a beloved tradition in South Florida, show-
casing the genre’s rich his tory and vibrant future.
February 28th at 7:00
p.m.: All Fired Up – The Pat Benatar Experience: Experience the thrilling energy of rock with All Fired Up as they honor the leg endary Pat Benatar. This dynamic group expertly cap tures Benatar’s iconic style with powerful vocals and a compelling stage presence. Their repertoire features alltime favorites like “Heartbreaker,” “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” “Love is a Battlefield,” and “We Belong,” transporting audi ences back to the heyday of Rock. All Fired Up offers more than just a concert—it’s a high-energy journey through Benatar’s ground breaking career. Perfect for both lifelong fans and new listeners, this tribute brings the Heart and Soul of Rock ‘N’ Roll to life.
March: March 7th at 7:00 p.m.: Smokin Forever Foreigner tribute to Boston and Foreigner: Kick off The LOOP’s Spring Break Series with a high-energy double header featuring tributes to the legendary bands Boston and Foreigner, performed by the exceptional Smokin’, led by the dynamic Frank Vestri, a favorite in South Florida. With a powerhouse voice and commanding stage presence, Vestri and his band deliver an unforgettable experience, recreating the iconic sounds of these Rock legends.
March 14th at 7:00 p.m.:
Absolute Def Leppard, a trib ute to Def Leppard: Experience the thrill of Def Leppard like never before with Absolute Def Leppard! This electrifying tribute brings the energy, precision and passion of Def Leppard’s legendary concerts to life, celebrating one of the most iconic Rock bands in history. With dynamic live vocals, stunning stage production and attention to detail that captures the essence of their iconic sound, Absolute Def Leppard recreates the unforgettable magic of a true Def Leppard show.
March 21st at 7:00 p.m.: Divas of Pop: Blondie and No Doubt: Get ready for an unforgettable night of music as Heart of Glass and Subliminal Doubt bring the iconic sounds of Blondie and No Doubt to life in an electrifying doubleheader tribute concert! Heart of Glass delivers a sensational tribute to Blondie, capturing the essence of the pioneering band that revolutionized new wave and punk in the late ‘70s and dominated the charts in the ‘80s.
Fronted by Monica Edwards, who channels Debbie Harry’s look, voice and vibrant energy, this talented Orlandobased band takes audiences on a journey through Blondie’s greatest hits, including “Heart of Glass,” “Call Me,” “One Way or Another,” “Rapture” and more. It’s a celebration of Blondie’s groundbreaking sound and their timeless influence on Rock and Pop music.
March 28th at 7:00 p.m.: American
Idiots Green Day Tribute: Get ready to Rock out with American Idiots, the ultimate Green Day tribute band, as they bring the high-energy sound and rebellious spirit of Green Day to life! This electrifying experience captures the raw energy and drive that defined Green Day when they first exploded onto the scene. With their spot-on renditions of the band’s greatest hits, the American Idiots deliver a show that’s the next best thing to seeing Green Day live.
*Performers schedule subject to change.
When: Friday Night Sound Waves will take place every Friday, February 14th through March 28th, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Las Olas Oceanside Park: 3000 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316.
The most convenient place to park is the Las Olas Beach Parking Garage, where the PayByPhone payment option can be used, and parking can be extended from anywhere using the mobile PayByPhone App.
Cost: The events are free and open to the public.
How: For more information, please visit: https://theloopflb.com/events/categories/ live-music/
About The LOOP A cornerstone of activity, The LOOP (Las Olas Oceanside Park) is the central hub of the $65 Million greenspace investment at the heart of Fort Lauderdale Beach. The public green spaces, including the Intracoastal Promenade and DC Alexander Park, aim to provide infinite experiences for everyone under the sun and year-round activity in Fort Lauderdale’s oceanfront backyard. Through its four pillars, “FAME,” The LOOP offers a variety of special events, activities, and unique local experiences for all, including free concerts, holiday happenings, farmer’s markets, community workouts, and more.
The LOOP was voted for six accolades in Fort Lauderdale Magazine’s “The Best of Fort Lauderdale 2024” readers’ poll, including Best Outdoor Space, gold; Best Park, silver; Best Place to Take Kids, silver; Best Farmers Market, silver; Best Event: Fur the Love Pet Fest, silver; and Best Event: Arts & Crafts Festival, bronze. For more information, visit: https://theloopflb.com Or contact: info@theloopflb.com Follow The LOOP on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/theloopflb And Instagram at: www.instagram.com /theloopflb/
Friday Night Sound Waves welcomes locals and visitors.
best musical talents, performing an eclectic range of genres.
The young and the young at heart enjoy some of South Florida’s
“Backstage Pass” series lights up Las Olas Oceanside Park with legendary hits from iconic tribute acts.
Freedom
From Page 1A
cations. Complementing these services, Freedom Tax Center’s sister company, Freedom Tax Resolution, steps in to assist clients facing disputes with the IRS. From dealing with tax liens and bank garnishments to negotiating reasonable installment agreements and offers in compromise, their team provides robust support and advocacy. This comprehensive approach to tax resolution is tailored to each client’s unique situation, aiming to achieve the most favorable outcome while reducing stress and uncertainty.
What sets Freedom Tax Resolution apart is not just their expertise, but also their commitment to keeping clients informed and involved throughout the resolution process. They understand that dealing with the IRS can be overwhelming and strive to make the experience as transparent and stressfree as possible by providing consistent updates and clear explanations, ensuring that clients are never in the dark about the status of their case.
Unlike many tax firms that operate seasonally, Freedom Tax Center provides year-round service, emphasizing their commitment to accessibility and ongoing support for their clients. They also provide bookkeeping and accounting services, ensuring businesses remain financially organized throughout the year. Their bookkeeping solutions help business owners maintain accurate records, track expenses, and prepare for tax season with confidence.
In a world where tax laws are constantly evolving, Freedom Tax Center remains a trusted partner for both individuals and businesses. Their wide range of services, expertise in specialized areas, and commitment to client service make them an ideal choice for anyone seeking peace of mind and professionalism in managing their tax affairs.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the Freedom Tax Center website or contact them at: 954-454-2080. Their office is located at: 600 W Hallandale Beach Blvd Ste. 4, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009.
NOTICE OF COMMUNITY MEETING
SAG Development, LLC, will hold a Community Meeting concerning Pembroke Road Mixed-Use Application No. DB-23-03510 to the City of Hallandale Beach, Florida, for a Major Development Review Variances, and Redevelopment Area Modifications (RAMs) for a mixed-use development, consisting of 116 residential units and approximately 7,500 sq. ft. of commercial space, generally located between NW 3rd Avenue and NW 2nd Avenue and between Pembroke Road and NW 10th Street (219 Pembroke Road).
To Learn About This Project, You Are Invited To Attend Our Community Meeting:
When: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
Time: 6:00 Pm
Where: Ingalls Park 735 SW 1st Street, Hallandale Beach, Fl 33009
For Additional Information Contact: Jose Saye At 954-961-6806
Romance Fizzling Instead Of Sizzling?
Relationship Experts Share New Approach For Overcoming The Valentine’s Day Blues
After holding out hope for a romantic Valentine’s Day, the disappointing reality over what their partner didn’t do prompts many people to ask themselves, “Is this
relationship enough for me?” And with the answer often comes an urge to try to talk their partner into couples counseling, hoping for the ultimate fix. Not so fast, say
relationship experts Stacey and Paul Martino, who warn that all-too often, couples counseling does more harm than good. “We have a completely
contradictory approach to couples work, yet our results are unmatched,” Stacey Martino said.
For more than 14 years, the Martinos have helped thousands of people around the world through live events and programs with their unique Relationship Development Methodology, which empowers just one person to transform a relationship — without compromise, without pleasing and without couples work.
And now, their groundbreaking method is accessible to everyone in their new book, The Missing Piece: A Proven Method to Single-Handedly Transform Your Relationship and Create Harmony in Your Home.
“Our mission is to flip the switch on the disposable relationship paradigm we have been handed and make the future better for our kids than it was for us,” Stacey Martino said. “We wrote this book because it is the solution I wish I had when my relationship was hanging by a thread.”
In The Missing Piece, the Martinos demonstrate why the old relationship paradigm is broken, why couples work is actually destructive, and how their normshattering one-person methodology can be easily learned by readers to empower them to single-handedly transform their marriages, put a stop to relationship kerfuffles and bring harmony back to their homes.
“Whether the reader wishes to make a great relationship even better, rescue a marriage on the brink of divorce or heal a co-parenting relationship affecting their family, this book has the perspective shifts they’ll need,” Paul Martino said.
Written in a relatable and actionable style, The Missing Piece is packed with practical tools and demonstrates how one person can begin to transform a relationship, without compromise and without having to convince their partner to get on board.
At a time when divorce rates are skyhigh and families are unnecessarily suffering, The Missing Piece provides proven, powerful strategies to help readers navigate real-life situations harmoniously, regardless of what they are currently facing.
“Multiple publishers have informed us that there has never been a book published that promises a one-person relationship method before,” Stacey Martino added. “But this isn’t just a theory or idea. The Relationship Development Methodology has been proven by many students, over many years. Now it’s your turn to finally get the missing piece.”
The Missing Piece: A Proven Method to Single-Handedly Transform Your Relationship and Create Harmony in Your Home Available from: www.Amazon.com
IGNITE Broward 2025 Brings Immersive Light & Art to Hollywood’s ArtsPark
South Florida’s premier festival of immersive light and sound-based art, IGNITE Broward, returns for its fourth year from February 14–23, adding the City of Hollywood as a location for the first time at ArtsPark.
With more than 30 dazzling installations across three Broward County locations, this year’s festival will run for an extended 10 days, offering more opportunities to experience cutting-edge light, sound, and technology-driven art.
As part of Hollywood’s Centennial Celebration, IGNITE will introduce a stunning immersive art circuit that reflects the City’s vibrant cultural spirit. Visitors can experience five captivating installations by internationally renowned artists including
Daniel Popper, sedemminut, This is Loop, Javier Riera, and local artists LIZN’BOW.
It will be one of the most ambitious lineups yet. Popper’s large-scale sculpture will transform ArtsPark into a surreal, interactive environment, while Riera’s striking light-based interventions alter landscapes to reveal hidden dimensions.
The Hollywood experience begins with the IGNITE Kickoff Celebration on Friday, February 14, at 5:30 p.m., featuring a special performance by LIZN’BOW at 6:30 p.m., adding a unique musical and visual element to the night’s festivities.
IGNITE Broward is presented by the Broward Cultural Division and produced by Mad Arts, with support from the City of Hollywood, Visit Lauderdale, and the City
of Dania Beach. The festival is free and open to the public, continuing its mission of making innovative, immersive art accessible to all.
Visitors can explore additional installations at various locations in Downtown Fort Lauderdale and Mad Arts in Dania Beach, with a free shuttle provided by the City of Dania Beach connecting all festival locations from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
For more details and a full schedule of events, visit: www.ignitebroward.com. For additional information and events for Hollywood’s Centennial Celebration, visit: www.hollywoodfl.org.
QLess Update Exciting improvements are coming to
the QLess system to make services more accessible and convenient. Starting February 10th, QLess consultation hours will be extended to Monday through Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Additionally, in-person services with select Plan Examiners will now be available. Walk-in visitors can conveniently schedule consultations using the new kiosk, with staff on hand to provide assistance as needed.
Consultations may still be booked online through the QLess system as usual. For in-person consultations, simply visit during the designated hours to be accommodated as soon as possible. Visit: www.hollywoodfl.org/building.
The Sterling Aventura Hosts Miami Coalition On Aging Event
individual growth amid a network of neighbors and friendly staff. Build on your legacy and experience a nurturing, stimulating environment where you can live purposefully. Their Florida senior living community caters to those in pursuit of exceptional lives, which is why they offer enrichment programs aimed to stimulate the mind, body and spirit through holistic approaches and compassionate care. With a full team supporting your wellness and growth journey, their community is the ideal place to explore new hobbies and skills.
Preserve Your Individuality
[2] One of the event’s highlights was the focus on community engagement, encouraging attendees to explore partnerships that can better serve the needs of
aging population.
The Sterling Aventura teamed up with The Miami Coalition on Aging this month to host a successful networking event that brought together professionals, caregivers, and advocates in the aging and senior care sectors. The event aimed to foster collaboration and provide an opportunity for attendees to share resources, insights, and best practices in senior care.
Held at The Sterling Aventura, the gathering offered a relaxed yet professional atmosphere, perfect for discussing pressing issues related to aging, healthcare, and services for older adults. Experts
Find personalized care at The Sterling Aventura. Every resident is unique, so they design programs based around each individual. Discover a community that respects and cares for you, that wants to get to know you better. They encourage you to make your Aventura senior housing space your own and to invite your friends and family to come visit as much as possible. They’ll be there to support you throughout your wellness journey with physical, emotional, social and spiritual support that will help you flourish. Through their specialty programs, you can preserve your individuality while exploring new pursuits with ease.
Relaxing Location
The Sterling Aventura is located on Northeast 183rd Street in Aventura with many nearby area attractions. You or your loved one can enjoy a community just minutes from the water with a lovely campus featuring
ers to senior living specialists—came together to discuss the latest trends in aging, and quality of life for seniors.
One of the event’s highlights was the focus on community engagement, encouraging attendees to explore partnerships that can better serve the needs of Miami’s aging population. The Miami Coalition on Aging, known for its work in advocating for older adults, also presented key initiatives and programs aimed at improving senior care throughout the region.
The Sterling Aventura At The Sterling Aventura, they want you to live well. The team at their assisted living and memory care community supports
walking paths and a shaded courtyard. Their peaceful campus is the perfect place to relax, read, focus on goals and take time to enjoy nature. In addition to on-site nature trails, community members can explore Founders Park and the Don Soffer Exercise Trail nearby. Love shopping and the arts? Just minutes away is the Aventura Mall and the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center. Of course, sandy beaches are just around the corner where you can sign up for City Programs to stay active and meet new friends.
To learn
Free Your Emotions: Discover The Profound
Spirit is pure source energy, untarnished by restrictive, limited beliefs, judgment, thoughts, or attitudes, explains Sherianna Boyle, a psychic healer and coach since 2002.
“Spirit is also inextricably linked to our very earthly human emotions. When we block, control, or constrict our emotions, we in turn prohibit the innate wisdom of Spirit to help and heal us,” Boyle said. “Instead, imagine a mindful practice, one that could allow us to receive healing, guidance, wisdom, clarity, and reassurance anytime we need it.”
Boyle, the bestselling author of Emotional Detox and host of the popular
podcast Just Ask Spirit, knows this is what is possible when emotions and spirit unify.
In her new book, Just Ask Spirit: Free Your Emotions to Energize Intuition and Discover Purpose, readers will discover how asking Spirit connects with psychology and the science of emotions. Using her easily accessible, tried-and-true Cleanse system to process emotions, readers will learn how to fully receive Spirit, and grow in relationship with it, activating healing and clarity. Through helpful exercises, readers can acquire tools and techniques that they can apply to all aspects of their lives, giving them an inner roadmap for building resiliency, overcoming obstacles, and devel-
oping intuition.
“In Just Ask Spirit, I invite readers to reconnect with the light of Spirit through the power of emotional processing,” Boyle said. “This journey empowers them to navigate life with grace and spiritual alignment while discovering just how powerful they truly are.”
Just Ask Spirit: Free Your Emotions to Energize Intuition and Discover Purpose
Publisher: Health Communications, Inc.
Release date: February 15th, 2025
Paperback: 288 pages ISBN-13: 9780757325281 Available from: www.Amazon.com
CLASSIFIED NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE SALE
NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE SALE
NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE SALE
NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE SALE
operators and maintenance technicians.
This year’s Roadeo took place at the Amerant Bank Arena Park and Ride, marking the first time this event was open to the public.
A highlight of the day was the live bus operator competition showcasing driving precision and safety skills. BCT’s highly skilled bus operators navigated many challenging obstacle courses.
The Roadeo course was designed to test every aspect of operation that a Bus Operator may encounter in daily driving situations. The course contained 11 obstacles that test a driver’s ability to negotiate:
• Left Turn • Passenger Stops
• Right Turn • Overall Judgement situations
Each obstacle was assigned a specific point total, and a missed or imperfect operation of a maneuver resulted in points being deducted from this total.
During the contestants’ time on the course, a judge also evaluated their safety habits (25 points). This included use of:
• Turn Signals • Hands • Horn • Feet
• Flashers • Overall posture
• Mirrors
The contestant was also judged on other factors:
• Their ability to deliver a smooth ride. This includes when they are stopping, turning and starting. (25 points)
• Professional appearance, including their uniform (50 points)
• A penalty of 1 point per second for every second over a 7 minute running time.
OBSTACLES:
OBSTACLE 1: SERPENTINE PROBLEM
This maneuver tests a driver’s ability to negotiate tight turns. The driver is required to enter a gate, weave in and out through three cones, and exit through another gate.
OBSTACLE 2: OFFSET STREET
In this maneuver the driver is required to drive through the separate narrow lanes that are offset one full lane’s width from each other.
OBSTACLE 3: 1ST PASSENGER STOP
The driver makes a maneuver at a bus stop made of simulated curbing. To make the bus stop properly, the front tires of the bus must be six inches or less from the curb while the rear tires are 15 inches or less. The stop must be made without touching the curb with the tires. The operator must also announce the stop to his onboard passengers as he/she pulls in.
OBSTACLE 4: RIGHT HAND REVERSE
This maneuver is designed to simulate a bus turn around, requiring a bus to back up to the right and is scored identically to the left hand reverse.
OBSTACLE 5: LEFT TURN PROBLEM
This maneuver tests a driver’s ability to make a tight left turn in a close situation. The driver is required to swing the bus into a 90 degree turn and not touch any of the cones outlining the problem even though he/she will lose sight of some of the cones.
OBSTACLE 6: REAR DUALS CLEARANCE
This is an obstacle where the driver must drive through a lane with his or her right dual tires. The lane is only slightly wider than the total outside width of the pair of rear duals and is marked by rows of tennis balls.
OBSTACLE 7: 2ND PASSENGER STOP
The driver makes a maneuver at a bus stop made of simulated curbing. To make the bus stop properly, the front tires of the bus must be six inches or less from the
it’s a way to navigate and experience the area.
curb while the rear tires are 15 inches or less. The stop must be made without touching the curb with the tires. The operator must also announce the stop to their onboard passengers as he/she pulls in. This stop is scored identically to the first passenger stop.
OBSTACLE 8: RIGHT TURN PROBLEM
This maneuver tests a driver’s ability to negotiate a tight 90 degree turn. The corner is marked with cones and the rear tire of the bus must pass within six inches of the corner.
OBSTACLE 9: LEFT HAND REVERSE
This maneuver is designed to simulate a bus turn around, requiring a bus to back up to the left. It measures a driver’s skill,
accuracy, and safety consciousness when backing up a bus. The bus must stop within 36 inches of a rear cone without touching the cone.
OBSTACLE 10: DIMINISHING CLEARANCE
This is an obstacle that tests the driver’s ability to judge position and speed of the bus. The driver is required to drive through a narrowing V-shape channel outlined with barrels, while maintaining a minimum speed of 20 miles per hour.
OBSTACLE 11: JUDGMENT STOP
This obstacle tests the driver’s ability to judge closing distances between the bus and a small object directly ahead. A cone is placed on the finish line and the bus must stop with the front bumper within six inches of the cone without hitting it.
After the competition, an awards ceremony recognizing the top-performing operators was held. These top performers will advance to the Florida Triple Crown Roadeo in Gainesville. In addition to the competition there were family-friendly activities, including games, crafts, giveaways, and food trucks offering a variety of delicious options, plus live entertainment featuring a live DJ and Mariachi Band! For more information, visit: www.Broward.org/BCT/ROADEO Or follow BCT on social media at BrowardCountyTransit.
