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“A Whoville Holiday”
Celebrate The Holidays
The 67th Annual Candy Cane Parade On Hollywood Beach
Award-winning Actress & Singer Amber Riley Is In Town
The parade promises an evening of joy, wonder, and holiday magic In the heart of Hollywood, Florida, a vibrant celebration continues to enchant locals and visitors alike—welcome to the 67th Annual Hollywood Beach Candy Cane Parade. This cherished event, steeped in history and festivity, is a testament to the community spirit that has flourished since its inception in the mid-1950’s. A jubilant extravaganza set against the backdrop of the picturesque Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, the parade promises an evening of joy, wonder, and holiday magic for all who attend. What began as a creative initiative by a group of enterprising Hollywood merchants has blossomed into one of the longeststanding holiday parades in the nation. The inaugural parade was conceived as a clever strategy to entice patrons to peruse the local shops and businesses. Over the decades, this simple yet ingenious idea has grown into a beloved tradition, captivating audiences with its array of brilliantly illuminated floats and vehicles. Scheduled to commence at 7:00 p.m., the Candy Cane Hollywood Beach, Page 6A
Amber Riley (Glee) will join the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF) for its “Celebrate the Holidays’
subject to change. Proof of Hallandale Beach residency is required. The first giveaway will occur at the Holiday in the Park event at Peter Bluesten Park on Friday, December 1, 2023, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The second giveaway at the Dr. MLK Jr. Day Parade and Celebration will be on Monday, January 15, 2024, at
Award-Winning Actress and Singer Amber Riley (Glee) will join the Gay Men’s Chorus Of South Florida (GMCSF) for its “Celebrate the Holidays’’ concert at 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 13th, at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. Under the baton of Artistic Director Gabe Salazar, GMCSF will treat audiences to a selection of popular holiday favorites, new standards, and creative vocal arrangements of time-honored classics. “The Gay Men’s Chorus Of South Florida is over the moon to welcome Extraordinary Superstar Amber Riley as our guest artist for this year’s ‘Celebrate the Holidays’ Concert at Hard Rock Live,” said Salazar. “This show will be an incredible and inspirational display of vocal talent as we join together to lift our voices in unity and harmony.” Special Guest Vocalist Amber Riley, best known for playing Mercedes Jones on the Fox Comedy-Drama Series Glee from 2009 – 2015, will join GMCSF, lending her soaring vocals to the
Tree Giveaway, 8A
The Holidays, Page 7A
Free Tree Giveaway Changing The Canopy Of Hallandale Beach The Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (HBCRA) is excited to announce a partnership with Community Greening to host a series of free tree giveaways in Hallandale Beach. The HBCRA has set an ambitious goal to increase the City’s tree canopy coverage over the next few years to combat having one of the lowest canopy coverages in Broward County.
The upcoming tree giveaways hosted by the HBCRA will allow Hallandale Beach residents to receive a limit of two trees per household (1 fruit tree maximum), on a first-come, firstserved basis. The species offered include Avocado, Gumbo limbo, June plum, Mango, Nance, Paradise tree, and Shortleaf fig. Please note species are based on availability and are
Mortgage Rates: What Are They Really Telling Us By Christopher Carter - Real Estate Broker Associate
It’s all about Lenders’ Risk Management. Higher Risk = Higher Rate, so how can you decrease the risk Mortgage Interest Rates you hear about on the evening news or read in an online Real Estate article are actually an average of rates gathered for the Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS) published every week by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, one of the major participants in the U.S. Secondary Mortgage Market. Let’s start with some background... “Freddie Mac” (as the FHLMC is called) does not provide Mortgage Financing directly to
buyers, nor do they set Interest Rates. They buy Individual Mortgages from Lenders, then bundle them into Mortgage
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Backed Securities for sale to Institutional Investors who receive cash flow from borrowers making their Monthly Mortgage
Payments. Selling Loans on the Secondary Market provides liquidity to Lenders by returning money back to them so they can
Gateway Park Transforms Into A Winter Wonderland, 7A
continue making Mortgage Loans to other Homebuyers. Most Residential Mortgages in the U.S. are sold to large Investors in the Secondary Market. Freddie Mac is just one of the Government-Sponsored Enterprise (GSE) companies and other large Investors participating in the U.S. Secondary Residential Mortgage Market, yet they are the only ones publishing weekly average rates as the widelywatched PMMS. If a Loan does not meet the Qualifying Requirements for sale to Freddie, it will be sold to another Secondary Market Investor or held in the Lender’s Mortgage Rates, 4A
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Mortgage Rates
Until more is known about the buyer, the property, and the transaction, interest Rates are just random numbers being tossed around
From Page 1A own Portfolio of Investments. Different Secondary Investors prefer (and even specialize in) different types of Mortgages for various types of Properties and Purchase Transaction Details. Primary Mortgage Market - Banks, Credit Unions, Mortgage Companies, and other Lenders who originate Loans directly to Homebuyers. Individual Lenders set their own Mortgage Interest Rates. Secondary Mortgage Market Marketplace in which Mortgage Loans and Servicing Rights are sold by Primary Market Lenders to GSEs, Aggregators, and Institutional Investors such as Insurance Companies, Pension Funds, Hedge Funds, and Securities Brokers. So what does all this have to do with Headline Interest Rates? Each week, Freddie Mac reviews Lenders’ Loan Applications submitted on their Proprietary Loan Origination and Underwriting Standards Platform. This software evaluates Borrower, Property, and Transaction Details to determine whether or not a Loan will be eligible for sale to Freddie Mac in the Secondary Market after it is approved and Funded by the Lender. Because Freddie Mac interacts with many Primary Market Lenders, they are in a good position to report Market Details and Trends. The average of Lenders’ Interest Rates from a very specific group of Loan Applications submitted on Freddie’s Eligibility Platform becomes that week’s PMMS number and is often presented to the Public in Media Headlines such as: “Mortgage Rates Rise (drop) to X.X%, up (down) from last week...” For some historical perspective, it is interesting to note that ever since the PMMS started monitoring Residential Mortgage Interest Rates in April 1971, for 30-Year Fixed Rate Mortgages: • The Average is 7.74% • (average of weekly headline rates) • The Median is 7.41% • (median of weekly headline rates) • The High was 18.63% in October 1981 • The Low was 3.31% in November 2012 Despite the many comments we now hear about higher rates (7.44% in the November 16, 2023 Report), current 30Year Fixed Mortgage Rates are VERY close to the PMMS 50-Year Average.
Freddie Mac buys a wide range of Mortgage Loans with different Qualifying Standards from many Lenders. For the Primary Mortgage Market Survey®, some of the specific criteria used to select Loan Applications whose Interest Rates will be included in the Averages are: • Owner-Occupied Primary Residence • Purchase, not Refinance • 30-Year or 15-Year Fixed Rate Loans • Located in lower 48 States and D.C. • (not A.K., H.I., or Territories) • Single-Family Home (not Condominium) • 75-80% Loan-To-Value Ratio • (20-25% Down Payment) • FICO Credit Score 740 or higher • Conventional Financing (not FHA, VA, USDA) Based on these Qualifying Standards, the PMMS includes rates offered to prime Borrowers, those who present the least risk of default to the Lender so they are offered more attractive Interest Rates. Obviously, not all Buyers/Borrowers and their Home Purchases fit into these Lower-Risk Standards, so headline Interest Rates are not available to all Homebuyers. The Interest Rate a Buyer/Borrower receives from a Lender may start with a Market (headline) Rate, then is adjusted to
reflect Individual Borrower Qualifying Specifics (like Credit Score and Debt-ToIncome Ratio) and the combination of variables mentioned below. It’s all about Lenders’ Risk Management. Higher Risk = Higher Rate. Remember that Lenders set their own Interest Rates. However, until more is known about the Buyer, the Property, and the Transaction - Interest Rates are just random numbers being tossed around until the final information is submited. Here are some of the factors that Lenders consider in addition to a Borrower’s Income, Assets, and Credit that have a direct bearing on the Interest Rate they receive: Loan Program Variables: • Fixed or Adjustable Interest Rate • Government-Insured or Conventional • Purchase or Refinance • Loan-To-Value Ratio (LTV) • Loan Amount • (Conforming, High-Balance, or Jumbo) • Term (Payback Period) in years Property Variables: • Single Family Detached • Condominium (Low Rise, High Rise) • Planned Unit Development with HOA • Geographic Location
Joseph A.
SCARANO
Use and Occupancy Variables: • Owner Occupied Primary Residence • Second/Vacation Home • Investment Property - not Owner Occupied; Short-Term or Annual Rental offered to others Any one of these variables has the potential to directly affect the Interest Rate a Borrower is offered by a Lender. Each Real Estate Transaction is unique, so the variables change with each buyer and each property. The closer buyers can get to the PMMS Criteria outlined above, the better their chances for receiving an Interest Rate closer to the headline rate they heard about in a news story. Bottom line - Individual Borrowers cannot be given an appropriate Mortgage Interest Rate until they submit Personal, Financial, Transaction, and PropertyRelated Information to a Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator. 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
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We Must Unite Against Hate By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper
Unite Against Hate. With the support of the testimonies of four Holocaust guide you. You can reach out to me or the Antisemitism has been around for his city and on behalf of the CAM Survivors. All were young children and center. I will make sure to facilitate thousands of years. The Jewish people Combat Antisemitism Movement. The survived by the grace of many people arrangements with the Director Rositta were first under siege in 740 BCE when event was still held with Mayors from who at their own risk hid sheltered and in Kenigsberg who is a dear friend, neighbor Assyria invaded Jerusalem. The Jewish around the globe. This movement of may- some cases raised them. I cannot share and a daughter of a Survivor. If you are homeland has been evaded, occupied, ors is speaking out and supporting efforts every story, but I did my best to record one of the brave Liberators you too need and displaced for centuries until their to educate and stand united against antis- them live on my Facebook page and will to share your story. They have a partner independence in the 19th century. But emitism and all forms of hate. To date make them into reels. I encourage readers with the Shoah Foundation and have a Antisemitism, just like Racism and hate, is over 700 mayors in the United States to go on and listen to them. fully equipped studio. They also are diga disease that does not have borders. It alone have signed in partnership with the What was and is extremely sad is that itizing all old videos. survives to today because there will be American Jewish Congress. I am very after all their pain and suffering they are If you would like to find out more about ignorant people that do not understand proud to be one of them. witnessing once again the hatred of those HDEC you can visit their website at: On the last day of the conference, we brainwashed against Jews. They are wit- www.HDEC.org - Or email them at: history and what hatred does to destroy our fellow brothers and sisters. Hatred is taught at a young age. My colleagues have spoken out against Antisemitism and Hammas and Hezbollah. We will continue to do so. Vice Mayor Anabelle Lima -Taub was born in Israel where her mother fled Russian Communism and then migrated to the United States. She shared an observation that warrants repeating and repeating. Many of the tropes against Jews that involve education, jobs as doctors lawyers engineers and scientists, owning successful businesses are not only hateful but due to the fact people are ignorant of the simple fact the Jewish people have been persecuted for so long they have had to educate and fend for themselves as a group. Many Antisemites exist but in America as a Democracy there are laws against discrimination. There are even now Hate Crime Laws. But years ago, many docOn the last day of the conference, we were all welcomed to the Holocaust Documentation and Education Center in Dania Beach. tors, lawyers or businesses would not serve Jews. Just like in America with slavery. Many would not were all welcomed to the Holocaust nessing once again a Holocaust. Their info@hdec.org. even allow people of color to use our pub- Documentation and Education Center in messages and warnings rang true. We As Hanukkah is this weekend, think lic services. We need to all watch what is Dania Beach. I have served on their board need to continue to stand up and speak about donating and supporting their going on in our country. WE all need to and since the COVID-19 Pandemic, I have out against all forms of hate. One survivor work. There are many organizations that realize over the past years what those in not had a chance to visit. It has truly spoke with such a strong message about are supporting Israel and those in harm’s power have done to erode our democracy. grown and many of the projects envi- teaching children in our homes kindness. way. Studying the background of leaders is sioned by the board have been built. This Teach all children not to bully. Teach all vital. Don’t just depend on FOX or CNN. is thanks to many donors and our children that hatred of any form is simply As always please feel free to contact This goes for both sides. Hate has been Governor and legislators. They have sup- wrong. This is one of the main goals of the me anytime with your questions, concerns, here and now has been glamorized or pla- ported the center and its important work Holocaust Documentation and Education and ideas to make our City a better place. I am available at: jcooper@cohb.org. Or: cated by those in high office. We cannot for years through funding. They passed Center. “Legacy Of Remembrance” for all our chilThere are approximately 1000 survivors joycooper@aol.com. On my Office number go back. Before Thanksgiving and before any- dren so they will know Never Again. left in South Florida. If you are one and at: (954) 457-1318. Or my Cell/Text one could even imagine that Israel would We all figured it would be a coffee and have not shared your story you need to. at: (954) 632-5700. You can always once again be invaded in a brutal unpro- a tour, but it turned out to be an extremely Those doing this important work at the visit my Facebook and follow me voked attack Mayor Dean Trantalis Cities emotional visit. We were blessed to hear center are extremely empathic and can at Mayor Joy Cooper.
Hollywood Beach From Page 1A Parade is a dazzling spectacle that winds its way along the iconic Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, embarking from Missouri Street and meandering southward to Harrison Street. Anticipation runs high as spectators eagerly gather along the parade route, eager to witness the mesmerizing procession of lighted floats, spirited marching bands, and captivating displays presented by civic, non-profit, and children’s groups. For those seeking optimal viewing, the Hollywood Beach Theatre at Johnson Street offers complimentary seating, while guests are encouraged to bring along their own lawn chairs for added comfort and prime parade viewing. Alternatively, reserving a table at one of the charming seaside restaurants promises a delightful vantage point to revel in the festivities. Parking on the barrier island can be challenging during such a popular event. To alleviate congestion, paradegoers are urged to park in the Downtown Parking Garages starting at 5:00 p.m. Conveniently located at 19th Avenue at Polk Street and 20th Avenue at Van Buren Street, these garages offer FREE Patron Shuttles to transport attendees to the beach. Shuttles will operate continuously until the evening’s conclusion at 10:00 p.m., following which the final shuttle will depart the beach area. In an admirable effort to preserve the beauty of Hollywood, parade participants have been encouraged to contribute to the city’s environmental initiatives by distributing candy directly to onlookers, rather than tossing it from floats. This thoughtful approach aims to minimize waste along the Broadwalk and sandy shores. Additionally, parade-goers can play their part by bringing reusable water bottles, furthering the community’s commitment to sustainability. A collaborative effort between the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency and the Department of Parks,
Recreation, and Cultural Arts, the Candy Cane Parade epitomizes the city’s dedication to fostering joyous communal experiences. For those seeking more information about this signature holiday event, the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts can be reached at: (954) 921-3404. As the 67th annual Hollywood Beach Candy Cane Parade approaches, the
excitement and anticipation reverberate throughout the community. It’s a timehonored tradition that brings together residents and visitors, uniting them in the spirit of merriment and spreading cheer that illuminates the season. Mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and join us for an unforgettable evening filled with the magic of the holidays at the Candy Cane Parade on Hollywood Beach. To watch a video of a previous years Candy Cane Parade on Hollywood Beach visit: https://youtu.be/uKzUubHH0NY
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The Chorus reaches more than 20,000 people each season through its mainstage concert season and numerous community appearances
The Holidays From Page 1A gifted group. For her performance in Glee, she and the cast won a Screen Actors Guild Award and have been nominated for three Teen Choice Awards, three NAACP Image Awards, and a Grammy Award. Riley and partner Derek Hough won Season 17 of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars 2013. In December 2015, she portrayed Addaperle, the Good Witch of the North, in NBC’s live performance of The Wiz and the following year, she originated the lead role of Effie White in the West End Debut of Dreamgirls, for which she won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical and an Evening Standard Theatre Award for Best Musical Performance. In 2017, Riley appeared as a judge on BBC One’s musical theater talent show Let It Shine and formed a musical theater supergroup with Beverley Knight and Cassidy Janson, known collectively as Leading Ladies, which was signed to East West Records/ Warner. Her Debut Album, “Songs From The Stage,” was also released in 2017, and in 2020, she released an EP as just “RILEY.” Most recently, Amber won Season 8 of FOX’s The Masked Singer making history as the first celebrity ever to win both The Masked Singer and Dancing
With The Stars. GMCSF will perform “Hark The Herald Angels Sing,” “Silver Bells,” and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas,” among others. With more than 180 singers on their roster, the Gay Men’s Chorus Of South Florida is the most prominent Gay Men’s chorus in the southeastern United States and one of the country’s top 10 largest LGBTQ+ Choruses. With a budget of over $1 Million, the Chorus reaches more than 20,000 people each season through its mainstage concert season and numerous community appearances. GMCSF’s “Celebrate The Holidays” Concert at Hard Rock Live is sponsored by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Amazon, The Grand Resort & Spa, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Holy Cross Health. “This is our sixth holiday season performing at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. “We are grateful for their ongoing generosity and we thank all of our Sponsors for their continued support of our artistic endeavors,” added Salazar. Tickets are on sale now. Individual tickets start at $46 and are available to purchase from Ticketmaster. The Gay Men’s Chorus Of South Florida (GMCSF) Founded in 2010, the Gay Men’s
Chorus Of South Florida is driven to open more minds and change hearts by pursuing a mission to inspire through song. Its membership and organization are diverse, intergenerational, and multicultural. In its short history, GMCSF has grown to include over 180 members and has become the largest Gay Men’s Chorus in the Southeastern United States and one of the country’s top 10 largest LGBTQ+ Choruses. Under Artistic Director Gabe Salazar, GMCSF has earned a stellar reputation, garnering prestigious invitations to perform throughout the South Florida region. Annually, through a combination of mainstage, outreach, and educational performances, GMCSF reaches more than 20,000 individuals. GMCSF is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization. To learn more, visit: www.gmcsf.org - Call: (954) 763-2266. Or e-mail: info@gmcsf.org. Hard Rock Live Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is South Florida’s premier entertainment venue. An investment of more than $125 Million, the 7,000-person capacity indoor venue features clamshell-style seating, offering guests an intimate experience. In 2023, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood won an Academy of Country Music Award in the Casino of the Year –
Theater Category. Hard Rock Live also ranked Number 5 worldwide in 2022 Gross Revenue for both Pollstar Magazine and Billboard in its respective categories. Designed by Scéno Plus, the 225,000Square-Foot Facility is equipped with State-Of-The-Art, In-House Sound and Lighting, large HD Viewing Screens and Mobile-Stage Technology. With its advanced capabilities, Hard Rock Live can support some of the entertainment industry’s biggest performers, as well as nationally and internationally televised awards shows, sporting events and more. A-list entertainers to perform at Hard Rock Live include The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Maroon 5, Billy Joel, and Dave Chappelle, among others. The Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood is located on 87 acres of the Hollywood Seminole Reservation along State Road 7 (U.S. Highway 441). For more information, visit us online at: www.seminolehardrock hollywood.com - Call: (800) 937-0010. Or follow us on: Facebook: SeminoleHard RockHollywood, Twitter: @HardRockHolly, Instagram: @HardRockHolly. To learn more about GMCSF, visit: www.gmcsf.org, call (954) 763-2266, or e-mail info@gmcsf.org. Follow us on Facebook, on TikTok @gmcsf, on Instagram @gmcsflorida, and YouTube @gmcsf.
Gateway Park Transforms Into A Winter Wonderland Sunny Isles Beach is gearing up for an enchanting evening of winter festivities as Gateway Park readies itself to host the much-anticipated Winterfest on Sunday, December 3rd. With promises of Snow Slides, Ice Skating, a grand Park Lighting Ceremony, delightful Crafts, and an array of Delectable Food Offerings, the Event is set to captivate attendees of all ages. Embracing the holiday spirit at Gateway Park, located at 151 Sunny Isles Boulevard, Sunny Isles Beach, Florida 33160 the park will be bedecked in twinkling lights, creating a mesmerizing landscape akin to a magical candy land. The event, running from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., aims to immerse visitors in the holiday spirit with an assortment of activities and entertainment. The highlight of Winterfest is undoubtedly the glistening Snow Slide that promises exhilarating rides for thrill-seekers.
Patrons can also glide across the Ice Skating Rink, adding an extra touch of winter wonder to the festivities. To further evoke the holiday charm, live reindeer will be present, providing a unique and charming experience for families. Craft enthusiasts will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, creating memorable keepsakes to cherish the evening. Moreover, the event offers photo opportunities galore, ensuring attendees can capture the magical moments against the backdrop of the illuminated park. An integral part of the celebration is the Lighting Ceremony, a tradition that symbolizes the commencement of the holiday season. The park’s transformation into a dazzling spectacle will culminate in this enchanting moment, sparking joy and spreading cheer among the gathered crowd.
For those eager to indulge their taste buds, a variety of culinary delights will be available for purchase, catering to diverse preferences and palates. Parking will be hassle-free, with FREE Parking available in the Gateway Park garage. Additionally, the SIBshuttle will provide Complimentary Transportation within Sunny Isles Beach, ensuring easy access to the venue for all visitors. Please make sure to take the shuttle bus early as they may be bussier than normal. SIBshuttle App Download the FREE Mobile App, SIBshuttle, to your Smartphone or Device. With this App, you can track the location and arrival of the SIBshuttle in real time! The App features a Real-Time Map, a list of Stop Locations and Service Updates. In your device’s App Store, search for: “SIBshuttle.”
Wristbands To partake in the festivities, attendees are required to acquire Wristbands, available for purchase online. These Wristbands grant access to all activities and can be obtained from any city facility. The Pre-Purchase Price for Wristbands is $20, while the cost at the event will be $25. Sunny Isles Beach Resident ID Cardholders can enjoy a Special Price of $5 for Pre-Purchase or $10 at the Event. Winterfest at Gateway Park promises a joyous celebration filled with merriment and enchantment, inviting one and all to revel in the magic of the season. Don’t miss the opportunity to create unforgettable memories amid the twinkling lights and festive cheer! For further details and inquiries Visit: www.sibfl.net/winterfest Or contact: (305) 792-1706.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE! Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell, to enforce a lien imposed on said property, under the Florida Self Storage Facility Act (Section 83.801-83.809)
at public sale by competitive bidding on www.storagetreasures.com ending on Friday December 8th, 2023 at 10:00am for units located at:
COMPASS SELF STORAGE 200 NW 79th Street Miami, FL 33150 - 305-759-7400 The personal goods stored therein by the following may include, but are not limited to the items listed below. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the time of sale. All goods are sold as is and must be removed at the time of purchase. Compass Self Storage reserves the right to refuse any bid. Sale is subject to adjournment.
All Units Listed Below Contain Household Items Jairo Barrios.......................................3 Ruffo Figueroa................................23A Ruffo Figueroa...................................63 Ra’Shawnna Avant..........................329 Victor Lopez....................................419 Alene Antonette Smith.....................438 Antravian Cobbs..............................439
Michelet Lefevre.............................442 Marie Cesar....................................620 Madeline Owens.............................727 Ernst Pierre Louis............................856 Amber Smith...................................803 Eddy Prophete.................................833
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Tree Giveaway From Page 1A OB Johnson Park. These trees are aesthetically pleasing and contribute to the development of a vibrant and diverse tree canopy in the Hallandale Beach area. “By planting more trees, including bioswales, we aim to reduce the heat island effect and mitigate flooding issues, aligning with our comprehensive vision for a sustainable and resilient future,” said Executive Director Dr. Jeremy Earle, Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency and City Manager of Hallandale Beach. The HBCRA recognizes trees’ vital role in improving the community’s and the environment’s overall well-being. According to a report done by Community Greening, trees can provide a wide range of benefits to a community, such as cooler temperatures, cleaner air, reductions in energy usage, increased property value, and much more. The HBCRA continually strives to make Hallandale Beach a city that values and nurtures its natural surroundings, fostering a sustainable and equitable future for all. Through the tree giveaways and partnership with Community Greening, the HBCRA is taking a significant step towards achieving its goal by encouraging community engagement and creating environmentally friendly spaces. The HBCRA invites everyone to join in these tree giveaways and play a role in creating a greener, more beautiful Hallandale Beach. Scheduled Tree Giveaway Dates • Friday, December 1, 2023-Peter Bluesten Park located at 501 SE 1st Ave, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. • Monday, January 15, 2024-OB Johnson Park located at 1000 NW 8th Ave, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm About the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency The Hallandale Beach CRA aims to promote economic development and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Their unwavering commitment to eliminating and preventing blighted conditions is achieved through facilitating community partnerships, fostering business growth, creating job opportunities, and undertaking neighborhood rehabilitation projects. With a vision to build a thriving and dynamic city, the Hallandale Beach CRA continually strives to make Hallandale Beach a prime destination for both business and leisure. For more information about the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency and its initiatives, please visit: www.cohbcra.org
A Tapestry of Dance & Music: Breathtaking Performances Await You The Allegro Fort Lauderdale Mosaic the country’s finest musical talents with Series promises to deliver a multicultural epic stage production to present a expedition of the arts through the sheer uniquely inspiring live experience. power of music and movement filled with For a quarter of a century Michael breathtaking performances. Flatley’s Lord of the Dance has been Celebrate the holidays in style with A dazzling audiences across the globe with Well-Strung Christmas coming to the its unique combination of high-energy Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center Irish dancing, original music, storytelling on Friday, December 8 at 8 p.m. This and sensuality. Now it comes to the Aumuch anticipated reunion tour of the talented all-male singing string quartet is back to take the musical world by storm once again with its signature pop-classical mashups. The New York Times called the band “a talented quartet of men that brilliantly fuses pop and classical music from Madonna to Beethoven.” DRUM TAO “30th Anniversary” Tour comes to The Parker on Sunday, February 18 at 7 p.m. Drum Tao set out to create the Drum Tao “30th Anniversary” best show in the world using Taiko drums, Japanese drums with a very rare and unique variety of sound expressions. Based in Oita, Japan, they started creating their own music, stage set-ups and costumes to produce concerts that have thrilled fans for three decades. The incomparable Forever Tango returns to The Parker Saturday, February 24 at 8:00 p.m. From multiple and recent runs on Broadway to legendary stages around the world. Known Forever Tango everywhere as the best tango show, it continues to WOW sold out houses with huge audience acclaim unmatched by any other company. Direct from Argentina, this production features the best Tango dancers in the world, internationally renowned musicians and a storyline true to the art of Tango. The Grammy®-nominated Celtic Woman brings its new world tour to The Parker on Friday, March 1 at 7:30 p.m. Since its debut, global musical sensation Celtic Celtic Angels Christmas Woman’s concerts continue to capture the hearts of an audience that spans the globe. Both an Rene Theater Sunday, March 24 at 2 p.m. accomplished recording ensemble and a & 7 p.m. as part of its 25th Anniversary world-class performing collective, Celtic celebrations. Since its premiere 25 years Woman celebrates Ireland’s rich musical ago, Lord of the Dance has become one and cultural heritage while continuing its the most successful touring productions remarkable legacy of introducing some of in entertainment history, having been seen Ireland’s most talented singers and by over 60 million people. Now the show musicians onto the world stage. A one-of- will go to the next level with this 25th a-kind live act, Celtic Woman combines anniversary tour and fans can expect new
staging, new costumes and choreography plus cutting-edge technology, special effects and remarkable lighting. Please note Michael Flatley is not scheduled to appear in any of the performances. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Innovation Arts & Entertainment present Harry Potter in Concert in the AuRene Theater at the Broward Center on
Friday, April 5 at 8 p.m. Fans can relive the film that started it all as they watch the wand choose the wizard, a troll run amok and magic mirrors in high definition while the South Florida Symphony Orchestra performs John Williams’ iconic score. Harry, Ron, Hermione and all the beloved characters return to the screen and enchant the world all over again. This
event is presented as part of the Allegro Fort Lauderdale Mosaic Series. Wizarding World and all related trademarks, characters, names and indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s23). The Classical Mystery Tour accompanied by the South Florida Symphony Orchestra conducted by Maestra Sebrina Alfonso comes to the Au-Rene Theater Saturday, May 11 at 8 p.m.. Since its initial performance at the Orange County Performing Arts Center (now renamed Segerstrom Center for the Arts) in 1996, it has become the no. 1 Symphony Pops attraction over the two decades. The group has been performing consistently for nearly 25 years with more than 100 orchestras in the US, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The group played to packed houses at the Sydney Opera House and has performed with America’s most prestigious orchestras: The Cleveland Orchestra, The Boston Pops, The Philadelphia Orchestra and The San Francisco Symphony, among many others. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: ParkerPlayhouse.com and Ticketmaster.com; by phone at: 954.462.0222; and in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at: 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at: 707 N.E. Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. The Parker is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. The Broward Center 2023/2024 season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and UHealth University of Miami Health System. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information, visit: BrowardCenter.org or ParkerPlayhouse.com
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A Passport To Fun-Filled Adventures The Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Imagination Series at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Parker features childhood superstars from television and film, magical feats and technological wizardry in exciting adventures that will entertain audiences of all ages. Upcoming events as the series continue begin with a celebration of the most magical time of the year with Jen Kramer’s Magical Holiday Show at The Parker on Saturday, December 30 at 8 p.m. Kramer turns the impossible into the impossible-to-ignore, wowing audiences with her contagious smile and world-class sleight-of-hand. A member of the Society of American Magicians, the International Brotherhood of Magicians, the Academy of Magical Arts and Hollywood’s worldfamous Magic Castle, she was named Female Magician of the Year by the International Magicians Society. Kramer has been featured on television shows including Penn & Teller: Fool Us, Masters of Illusion, and NBC’s Today Show. Get ready for the ultimate curiosity adventure in Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour Wednesday, February 28 at 6:00 p.m. in the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center. Dance, sing, and learn with Blippi and special guest Meekah as they discover what makes different cities unique and special. Will there be monster trucks, excavators, and garbage trucks galore? You bet! So get ready to shake those wiggles out and OJ Twist your way through this brand-new musical party! With a mash-up of dazzling wizardry, spectacular dance moves, high-tech effects and original music, iLuminate comes to Lillian S. Wells Hall at the Parker on Sunday, March 3 at 7 p.m. State-ofthe-art technology and electrifying entertainers unite to create the ultimate performing arts experience. Blending music, art and technological magic, iLuminate tells a story of adventure and romance through dance styles ranging from contemporary, hip-hop, Latin and breaking, all using the power of light. The troupe gained national attention on hit television shows including America’s Got Talent, Dancing with the Stars, X Factor, American Music Awards, MTV’s Video Music Awards, BET Awards, The Nickelodeon Awards, Billboard and Latin Billboard Awards. Now in its seventh year of touring, this production brings your favorite characters hopping back on board the trolley and coming to the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center with the grr-ific musical for little tigers and grown-ups alike in Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live: King For A Day! on Friday, March 22 at 6 p.m. The hugely popular Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood LIVE!, based on the no. 1 PBS KIDS TV series, has delighted live audiences on stages across the country. Daniel and all of his friends invite you for a brand-new adventure in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe where Daniel learns just what it takes to be King. The beloved characters come alive on stage to captivate audiences with new songs to sing along to, magical moments and
iLuminate
Blippi
Jen Kramer Magical Holiday Show surprise guests along the way. It’s a royally great time filled with tigertastic fun, teaching the valuable lessons of kindness, helping others and being a friend. For generations, the music of Disney’s princesses has been the soundtrack to our lives. Now, these beloved songs come alive on stage with a host of Broadway and television stars in Disney Princess – The Concert! in the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center on Sunday, April 7 at 2 p.m. Be our guest as Broadway favorite Lissa deGuzman (Princess Jasmine in Aladdin, Wicked), BroadwayWorld® Award-winner Syndee Winters (Nala in The Lion King, Hamilton), and Disney Channel star Anneliese van der Pol (Belle in Beauty and the Beast, That’s So Raven/ Raven’s Home), combine forces in this
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE! Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell, to enforce a lien imposed on said property, under the Florida Self Storage Facility Act (Section 83.801-83.809)
at public sale by competitive bidding on www.storagetreasures.com ending on December 8th, 2023 at 10:00am or thereafter for units located at:
COMPASS SELF STORAGE 900 N. Krome Ave, Florida City, FL 33034 (Miami-Dade County) (305-248-0101) The personal goods stored therein by the following may include, but are not limited to the items listed below. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the time of sale. All goods are sold as is and must be removed at the time of purchase. Compass Self Storage reserves the right to refuse any bid. Sale is subject to adjournment.
All Units Listed Below Contain Household Items
Lee, Falasha........................0106 Smith, Leah........................0111 Simmons, Debra.................0118 Carr, Sammy.......................0150
Torres, Jorge.......................0535 Hernandez, Jose Luis..........0549 Mensie, Jaimoria.................0811 Geter, Marcus......................0937
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concert of a lifetime. They are joined by their magical Music Director, Benjamin Rauhala (Fiddler on the Roof, The Secret Life of Bees) and enchanting Prince, Adam J. Levy (Moulin Rouge, Waitress). Dress up in your favorite royal attire and share the joy of Disney with your loved ones at this internationally acclaimed concert experience. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at ParkerPlayhouse.com and Ticketmaster. com; by phone at 954.462.0222; and in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The
Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 N.E. Eighth St. in Fort Lauderdale. The Parker is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. The Broward Center 2023/2024 season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and UHealth University of Miami Health System. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at: 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. For more information, visit: BrowardCenter.org or ParkerPlayhouse.com
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Titan Restoration Inc. Is A Company That Cares By Erika Cartwright
Restoration Inc. works with all Florida remodels, as well as a wide variety of experts at Titan Restoration Inc. to have The only thing in life that is certain, is homeowners’ insurance companies. other services. Throughout this process, you breathing easier, in a mold-free enviTo assess the situation Titan Titan Restoration Inc. will be working with ronment. that anything can happen at any time. Such tragedies as; fire, hurricanes, and Restoration Inc. offers state-of-the-art your insurance company every step of the Once the mold has been identified, the floods are real and do happen, bringing leak detection, using infra-red cameras. way. mold remediation process begins. Titan with them water damage and the potential This allows for non-invasive, non-messy You should never attempt to remove Restoration Inc. will dry out the affected for harmful mold and bacterial growth. leak detection. No need to tear up dry wall mold without a licensed professional, it is area using fans and dehumidifiers. Water damage can occur for several rea- or floors just to find the source of the leak. unsafe, and hazardous to your health. Followed by thoroughly cleansing and sons, some you may not notice right away, such as sewer issues, a leaking roof, and clogged or leaking pipes, just to name a few. During these times you need licensed professionals with a plan of action that can ease the stress and take the headache of dealing with the insurance company off your hands. Allowing you to focus on what is important to you in your time of need. Titan Restoration Inc., formerly known as 1st Priority, is a trusted, licensed Cleaning, Water Damage Restoration, and Mold Remediation Company proudly serving all of southern Florida. The main office is in Broward County. Technicians are throughout; Collier, Lee, Martin, MiamiDade, Monroe, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie Counties, allowing them to arrive at the site within 45 minutes in times of emergency. With emergency calling 24/7, you are never more than a phone call away from friendly, efficient, caring, knowledgeable professionTitan Restoration Inc. is a trusted, licensed Cleaning, Water Damage Restoration, and Mold Remediation Company proudly serving all of South Florida als. Whether the water damage in your home or business was caused by a Once the leaks have been found, you will Mold thrives in dark, damp environments sanitizing the affected areas using antileaking pipe, roof, or major flood, Titan be referred to a trusted, licensed plumber. such as under the kitchen or bathroom microbial agents effective for moldRestoration Inc. is here to help. To sched- After the repairs’, State-of-the-art special- sinks, in unventilated basements, and eliminating and prevention. HEPA air puriule non-emergency services or to request ized equipment is used to detect moisture closed in laundry rooms. It can even be fiers are used to capture any airborne a free estimate please visit: www. levels in the air, dehumidifiers are placed found behind drywall. Because of the heat mold spores, leaving you with clean air. Titanrestorationfl.com their user-friendly in the affected area, and a Florida- and humidity which Florida is known for, it Green cleaners are used for mildew website makes scheduling appointments licensed Mold Inspector will be sent to do provides a perfect environment for mold removal. Since mold spores are airborne a mold inspection. Samples will be taken to thrive. Vigilance is key when it comes to and invisible to the naked eye it is neceasy. For emergency services call 954-280- of the air and mold. The specimens will be mold remediation. Bleach and paint alone essary to deep clean the air ducts, car6950, technicians will arrive within the sent to their private laboratory for testing. will not eliminate the problem, only hide it, pets, furnishings, and upholstery. hour to begin the process of helping you This will determine which type of mold allowing it to grow unseen and spread. Homeowners’ insurance covers the cost in most cases following water damage. These services are offered year-round, and it is recommended to have these done once a year to remove allergens, bacteria, dirt, and grime buildup that occurs naturally over time. These services are recommended more frequently if you have pets, suffer from allergies, or are a smoker, to ensure peace of mind and healthier living. After the repairs are completed and your home or business is restored to its pre-loss condition, a Florida statelicensed Mold Inspector will be sent out to do a final inspection, to ensure all mold concerns were effectively eliminated. Titan Restoration Inc. takes pride in providing the best service experience to its customers from start to finish. Their goal is to have your property back to its pre-loss condition while taking the stress off you. Titan Restoration Inc. is a Titan Restoration Inc. is a customer-friendly company that also specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodeling. customer-friendly company that also specializes in kitchen and get your life back. With services such as they are dealing with. Some molds are This causes more damage to your home bathroom remodeling from drywall and emergency packing and storing of sal- more toxic than others such as black and health over time. People and pets all baseboards to cabinetry and flooring. It is vageable belongings, following fire or mold, knowing the type, allows for proper respond differently to mold and mildew. not necessary to have damage to your flood, and standing water removal also precautions to be taken to ensure effec- For some, it may be watery eyes, itchy home, to call on Titan Restoration Inc. for available, they handle it all for you from A- tive treatment and removal of the mold. throat, cough, or skin irritation. Confusion, all your remodeling needs. Z. The cost is most often fully covered by Depending on the severity of the dam- disorientation, and even hallucinations your homeowner’s insurance, leaving you ages, drywall and flooring may need to be can also be signs of mold exposure. For For a free estimate call with no worries about chasing down reim- replaced to effectively rid your home or others, exposure to mold can cause very 954-280-6950, now offering bursements from the insurance company. business of mold. Titan Restoration Inc. is serious, even life-threatening health prob- 10% off a $350 service for Face it, you have enough worries, this a full remodeling and restoration com- lems. When it comes to your health and out-of-pocket customers. doesn’t need to be one of them. Titan pany, specializing in kitchen and bath the safety of your loved ones, trust the
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Freedom’s Greatest Hour Of Danger Is Now What If the Constitution No Longer Applied? By John & Nisha Whitehead
We are approaching critical mass, the point at which all hell breaks loose. The government is pushing us ever closer to a constitutional crisis. What makes the outlook so much bleaker is the utter ignorance of the American people—and those who represent them—about their freedoms, history, and how the government is supposed to operate. As Morris Berman points out in his book Dark Ages America, “70 percent of American adults cannot name their Senators or Congressmen; more than half don’t know the actual number of senators, and nearly a quarter cannot name a single right guaranteed by the First Amendment. Sixty-three percent cannot name the three branches of government. Other studies reveal that uninformed or undecided voters often vote for the candidate whose name and packaging (e.g., logo) are the most powerful; color is apparently a major factor in their decision.” More than government corruption and ineptitude, Police Brutality, Terrorism, Gun Violence, Drugs, Illegal Immigration or any other so-called “danger” that threatens our nation, civic illiteracy may be what finally pushes us over the edge. As Thomas Jefferson warned, no nation can be both ignorant and free. Unfortunately, the American people have existed in a technology-laden, entertainment-fueled, perpetual state of cluelessness for so long that civic illiteracy has become the new normal for the citizenry. It’s telling that Americans were more able to identify Michael Jackson as the composer of a number of songs than to know that the Bill of Rights was the first 10 Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. In fact, most immigrants who aspire to become citizens know more about national civics than native-born Americans. Surveys indicate that a majority in every state but Vermont would fail a test of U.S. Citizenship Questions. Not even the government bureaucrats who are supposed to represent us know much about civics, American history and geography, or the Constitution although they take an oath to uphold, support and defend the Constitution against “enemies foreign and domestic.”
The American people have existed in a perpetual state of cluelessness for so long that civic illiteracy has become the new normal for the citizenry For instance, a few years ago, a couple attempting to get a Marriage License was forced to prove to a government official that New Mexico is, in fact, one of the 50 states and not a foreign country. You can’t make this stuff up. Here’s a classic example of how surreal the landscape has become. Every year, the White House issues a proclamation affirming the importance of the Bill of Rights. These proclamations pay lip service to the government’s commitment to upholding the Constitution and guarding against government abuses of power. Don’t believe it for a second. The government doesn’t want its abuses checked or its powers restricted. For that matter, this is not a government that holds the Constitution in high esteem. Indeed, we wouldn’t be in this sorry state if it weren’t for the damage inflicted in recent years on the Freedoms enshrined in the Bill of Rights, which historically served as the bulwark from government abuse. In the so-called name of national security, the Constitution has been steadily chipped away at, undermined, eroded, whittled down, and generally discarded to such an extent that what we are left with is but a shadow of the robust document adopted more than two centuries ago. The Bill of Rights—462 words that represent the most potent and powerful rights ever guaranteed to a group of people officially—became part of the U.S. Constitution on December 15th, 1791, because early Americans such as James Madison and Thomas Jefferson understood the need to guard against the government’s inclination to abuse its power. Yet the reality we must come to terms with is that in the America we live in today, the government does whatever it wants. Make no mistake: if our individual free-
doms have been restricted, it is only so that the government’s powers could be expanded at our expense. Government Surveillance, Militarized Police, SWAT Team Raids, Asset Forfeiture, Eminent Domain, Overcriminalization, Armed Surveillance Drones, Whole Body Scanners, Stop and Frisk Searches (all sanctioned by Congress, the White House, the Courts and the like), etc., these are merely the weapons of the Police State. The power of the Police State is dependent on a populace that meekly obeys without question. Remember: when it comes to the staggering loss of civil liberties, the Constitution hasn’t changed. Rather, it is the American people who have changed. Those who gave us the Constitution and the Bill of Rights believed that the government exists at the behest of its citizens. The government’s purpose is to protect, defend and even enhance our freedoms, not violate them. It was no idle happenstance that the Constitution opens with these three powerful words: “We The People.” Those who founded this country knew quite well that every citizen must remain vigilant or freedom would be lost. As Thomas Paine recognized, “It is the responsibility of the patriot to protect his country from its government.” You have no rights unless you exercise them. Still, you can’t exercise your rights unless you know what those rights are. Education precedes action. If there is to be any hope for restoring our freedoms and reclaiming our runaway government, we will have to start by breathing life into those three powerful words that set the tone for everything that follows in the Constitution: “We The People.” People get the government they deserve. It’s up to us.
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We have the power to make and break the government. We the American people—the citizenry—are the arbiters and ultimate guardians of America’s Welfare, Defense, Liberty, Laws and Prosperity. It’s time to stop waiting patiently for change to happen. A healthy, representative government is hard work. It takes a citizenry that is informed about the issues, educated about how the government operates, and willing to make the sacrifices necessary to stay involved, whether that means forgoing Monday night football in order to attend a city council meeting or risking arrest by picketing in front of a politician’s office. Whatever you do, please don’t hinge your freedoms on politics. The Constitution is neutral when it comes to politics. What the Constitution is not neutral about, however, is the government’s duty to safeguard the rights of the citizenry. “We The People” also have a duty that goes far beyond the act of voting: as I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, it’s our job to keep freedom alive using every nonviolent means available to us. Know your rights. Exercise your rights. Defend your rights. If not, you will lose them. Freedom’s greatest hour of danger is now. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an Attorney and Author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of Constitutional Law, Human Rights and Popular Culture. John Whitehead’s Commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org. Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org.
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