Broward Directory News | General News about South Florida

Rick Case Habitat Community’ in Pompano Beach

April 3, 2023 by Editor

Habitat for Humanity of Broward hosts historic dedication ceremony for 15 new two-story homes at ‘A Rick Case Habitat Community’ in Pompano Beach

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. (April 3, 2023) – Habitat for Humanity of Broward recently celebrated the completion of 15 new two-story homes with a dedication ceremony at its historic “A Rick Case Habitat Community” in Pompano Beach. This is a record high, as this is the most homes Habitat Broward has ever dedicated in one event.

“There are not enough words to describe how grateful we are. It has always been a dream of ours to become homeowners, and today Habitat’s supporters made this dream a reality,” said new homeowner, Lashicia Harris.

“This is the result of so much hard work and heart,” Habitat Broward CEO and Executive Director Nancy Robin said in a statement. “I’m immensely proud of each and every one of our families for making today happen, and I’m so very thankful for our sponsor the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation, volunteers, construction team and other employees who made the completion of these homes possible.”

All 15 family homes were sponsored by The Fredrick A. DeLuca Foundation through a transformational grant to Habitat Broward.

South Florida is the nation’s most cost-burdened housing market in the nation with high home prices and low wages making homeownership out of reach for 94 percent of Broward residents.

The benefits are clear, Habitat homeowners are healthier, safer, more likely to go to college and have 44 times the net worth of those families renting.

With assistance from Habitat Broward, families are able to acquire modest homes with mortgages kept to 30 percent of household income. To qualify, individuals must start off by providing 300 hours of sweat equity to construct their homes and the other houses in the neighborhood. Families must also attend a year of homeownership classes and make a small down payment.

“The journey to homeownership isn’t easy,” said Habitat Board Chair, Lily Pardo. “But these families understand the long-term impact of owning a safe, stable and affordable home. It’s a testament to how hard they are willing to work to create better opportunities for themselves and their families for generations to come.”

“A Rick Case Habitat Community” was made possible by Ed Ansin of Sunbeam/WSVN Channel 7, and Rita and Rick Case of Rick Case Automotive Group who stepped forward with a leadership gift to name this historic new community and provided much of the funding for the infrastructure.

The project is also made possible by the Mary N. Porter Legacy Fund of the Community Foundation of Broward, the City of Pompano Beach, the Hudson Family Foundation, Burdette Beckmann, Inc., the Robert Taylor Family, the Wadsworth Family Foundation, the Elizabeth Peters Estate, the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation, the Estate of Renate Wylie, the Robert L. Elmore Estate, JM Family Enterprises and other contributors and volunteers.

The community will feature 76 affordable homes consisting of 42 one-story and 35 two-story units with sizes ranging from 1,200 to 1,300 sq. ft. homes. All homes feature sustainable, energy-efficient materials, including impact windows, to minimize environmental impact, improve indoor air quality, and reduce utility and maintenance costs. Additional features include a park and children’s playground that will be accessible to residents of the community and the surrounding area.

The total project is estimated to cost over $18 million in funds that will be raised and leveraged through partnerships with corporations, foundations, government agencies, the faith community and generous individuals.

About Habitat for Humanity of Broward
Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity of Broward brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Habitat Broward offers a “hand up” not a “hand out” to families who are unable to qualify for conventional home financing but are willing to work hard to improve their family’s lives and achieve the economic empowerment of homeownership. For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Broward please call (954) 396-3030 or visit habitatbroward.org or check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HabitatBroward.

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Homeownership program applications open February 15

February 27, 2023 by Editor

Homeownership program applications open February 15 for new two-story townhomes in Fort Lauderdale and Coral Springs

FORT LAUDERDALE (February 7, 2023) – Habitat for Humanity of Broward’s homeownership program applications to open for new two-story townhomes in Fort Lauderdale and Coral Springs beginning on Wednesday, February 15, via www.habitatbroward.org. The application deadline is Friday, March 31. Qualified prospective homeowners do not want to miss this limited opportunity.

The new energy-efficient, two-story townhomes will include three to four bedrooms, garages, modern kitchens, landscaped yards, and hurricane-impact windows.

These locations are close to city centers, schools, churches, recreational and shopping amenities with easy access to transportation and major traffic corridors.

The application process has four steps that include a pre-qualification questionnaire, orientation, financial analysis review, and face-to-face interview. Successful applicants can expect to move into a home within 12 to 18 months.
Qualifications include but are not limited to the following:

• Must be a first-time homebuyer.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen or legal permanent resident.
• Must be a current Broward County resident or working in Broward (for a year or more).
• Must demonstrate a need for affordable housing.
• Must be within HUD income guidelines.
• Must be committed to making affordable mortgage payments.
• Must be able to show $3,000 in savings and pay $2,700 in escrow.

Interested families can visit https://habitatbroward.org/apply/ to start the pre-application process after February 15th.

About Habitat for Humanity of Broward
Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity of Broward brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Habitat Broward offers a “hand up” not a “hand out” to families who are unable to qualify for conventional home financing but are willing to work hard to improve their family’s lives and achieve the economic empowerment of homeownership. For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Broward please call (954) 396-3030 or visit habitatbroward.org or check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HabitatBroward.

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The Perfect Breakfast

December 9, 2022 by Editor

by Julie from Yuka

Many of us eat cereal with milk or buttered toast with jam alongside a glass of orange juice for breakfast. But that breakfast is far from ideal in terms of nutrition. Indeed, a breakfast packed with carbohydrates encourages insulin secretion, which should be avoided — especially in the morning. Here are our recommendations for a delicious, healthy breakfast based on the advice of nutritionist Anthony Berthou.

https://yuka.io/en/basics/the-perfect-breakfast/

Yuka deciphers product labels and analyzes the health impact of food products and cosmetics.
Check out their app – It allows you to scan the labels of your food and cosmetic products and gives you quality information about the product
https://yuka.io/en/app/

Habitat for Humanity Welcomes New Outreach and Advocacy Manager

November 21, 2022 by Editor

Habitat for Humanity of Broward has welcomed Maggie Zalamea
as its new Community Outreach and Advocacy Manager.

FORT LAUDERDALE (November 7, 2022) – Habitat for Humanity of Broward has welcomed Maggie Zalamea as its new Community Outreach and Advocacy Manager.

Zalamea is a dynamic, results-oriented, passionate leader with over 15 years of experience in non-profit and government administration and has dedicated her career to helping those in need to achieve their highest potential.

She will spearhead Habitat Broward’s advocacy efforts by engaging civic leaders, elected officials, business community partners, faith-based and non-profit organizations in ensuring that working families in Broward can achieve the dream of homeownership.

“As we continue to grow and build our A-team, I am ecstatic to welcome Maggie to our team of dedicated professionals working to helping families achieve the ‘American Dream’ of homeownership,” said Justine Morgan, Habitat Broward Vice President, Capital and Community Relations.

Prior to Habitat Broward, Zalamea served in leadership positions in the states of Minnesota and Florida, specializing in government and legislative affairs; public policy and advocacy; and community relations, outreach, education; and engagement. Other previous roles include Director of Government Relations for the School Board of Broward County; Director of Public Policy and Community Coalitions for the Broward Teachers Union; Director of Operations for Hispanic Unity of Florida; Director of the Minnesota Latino Affairs Council; and Minnesota Assistant Attorney General.

Zalamea received her Juris Doctor from the University of Iowa and a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia. In her spare time, she enjoys travel, reading, photography, biking, and dogs.

Norway Photo Workshop – Winter in The Lofoten Islands

November 19, 2022 by Editor

Only 2 spots left!

Come join Colby Brown on this Norway Photo Workshop Adventure that you will never forget! We will explore one of the most amazing winter photography locations on the planet, Norway’s own Lofoten Islands. Located above the arctic circle, these islands are home to some of the most spectacular seascapes in Europe. Additionally, because of its latitude, you have a greater chance to see the Northern Lights here than most places on the planet. During our 7 day adventure, we will split our focus between the famous town of Reine and the mountainous beaches of Leknes. This will put your right at the heart of some of the most incredible photographic location in the world!

Trip Dates: February 18th – 25th, 2023
Group Size: 10
Difficulty Level: Easy/Moderate

Our photo adventure in the Lofoten Islands will base just outside the town of Leknes for the duration of our workshop. There are multiple daily flights from Oslo to the Leknes Airport (LKN), giving you plenty of options to choose from when it comes to getting to this incredible part of the world. We will be staying in a series of fully renovated Rorbuer cabins that come equipped with not only private bathrooms in each room (with heated floors), but a living room area and full kitchen. It is here that we will make our own meals each night, allowing all participants to not only choose what they wish to eat, but save a little money in the process (eating out in Norway is VERY expensive).

Chasing the northern lights at night
Exploring a series of incredible fjords, beaches, inlets, lakes and mountain scenes
We will spend time photographing a number of the gorgeous red and yellow cabins that line the fjords
The Lofoten Islands are a photographers paradise
One of my favorite places to photograph in the winter.

To learn more about this fabulous workshop adventure to Norway, please visit:
https://www.colbybrownphotography.com/photography-workshops/norway-winter-photo-workshop/

Order your 2023 Photo Calendar!

November 18, 2022 by Editor

My 2023 Photo Calendar is ready for preorder.

I have sent my order to the printing company. and should be ready in a week or two. I am using a Florida based printing company that has recovered from hurricane Ian.

The calendars will feature:

100# glossy paper
12″ x 9″ in size
wire bound
UV coated

I think I selected some terrific images for the 2023 calendar. If you need more than 5 calendars, please contact me and let me know how many you need.

Order your calendar today!
To order online – visit: https://www.leesmithphotos.com/calendar/

I am accepting Checks, Zelle and Credit Cards, let me know if you have any questions

This is a great way to support my work and help me at the same time.
Thank you!

Lee Smith, Photographer
Smitty’s Holdings, Inc.
Contact page: https://www.leesmithphotos.com/contact-us/

Grab a copy of Mark Potter’s New Book

November 11, 2022 by Editor

My friend Mark Potter, finally got his book published!
It’s a beautiful heart felt story to read and the photos are just beautiful!

The following text is from Amazon along with the link to order:

Sunrise: A Photographic Journey of Comfort, Healing, and Inspiration Hardcover
Author: Mark Potter, 208 pages

“The heartrending story behind Mark Potter’s marvelous photographs gives them a healing and hope-filled force. This book is more than a memorial to his remarkable wife; it lights a path forward for everyone who has experienced the darkest weight of grief and it reminds us to cherish every sunrise.” ––Carl Hiaasen

“With a moonless sky this early morning, it is eerily dark out here, and I can feel the weight of the hot and humid South Florida air. As I head toward the sound of the rolling ocean surf ahead of me, the soft beach sand shifts beneath my feet, making it hard for me to walk while balancing my two cameras and a heavy tripod. Even though I go out like this virtually every morning, it never gets old, and once again I am starting to get excited. I can even feel my breathing increase as I approach the shoreline. These are all welcome signs that I’m fully alive right now and am engaged in what I call “magic time.” It’s that ungodly hour of the day when most normal people are still safely at home, asleep in their comfortable beds––blissfully unaware that they are on the verge of missing out on one of the best lightshows on all of planet earth: The tropical sunrise!” ––Mark Potter

It is the unvarnished truth that all of Mark Potter’s bright and colorful sunrise photographs began from tragedy and grief, and were taken in memory of his wife who died from cancer. But as miracles sometimes have it, the images turned out to be the exact opposite of the way they began. They are upbeat and exciting, but also comforting and calming while capturing the natural world of Florida as it awakens to each new day with not only sunrises, but also seascapes, wildlife, marine life, flora, and fauna.

About the Author
Mark Potter is a 41-year veteran of television news and was an on-air correspondent for ABC News, CNN and NBC News. During his career, he traveled extensively and won national awards for his investigative reporting of narcotics trafficking, migrant smuggling and civil rights. Potter now devotes his retirement to photographing the Florida outdoors, turning his cameras toward beautiful sunrises, landscapes, wildlife and sunsets. He is a longtime resident of South Florida.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/149306603X/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bank of America Donates to Habitat for Humanity of Broward

November 11, 2022 by Editor

Bank of America Donates $50,000 and New Office Space Headquarters
to Community Partner, Habitat for Humanity of Broward

FORT LAUDERDALE (November 2, 2022) – Bank of America recently presented a donation check of $50,000 and committed to providing office space for Habitat for Humanity of Broward’s new headquarters in support of the non-profit’s mission.

The new office space located on the 2nd floor of the Fort Lauderdale Bank of America branch at 888 NW 62nd Street allows Habitat Broward to conduct its homeownership classes onsite for the first time in its history.
“We are grateful for the overwhelming support from our partners at Bank of America,” said Nancy Robin, Habitat for Humanity of Broward’s CEO and Executive Director. “This new office space affords us the opportunity to host homeownership classes at this central location for the first time in history, and the funds donated helped five families to get closer to their dream of homeownership.”

After the check presentation, Bank of America Fort Lauderdale President, Lori Chevy and employee volunteers rolled up their sleeves to work with Habitat Broward at “A Rick Case Habitat Community” in Pompano Beach. They worked side-by-side with future habitat homeowners to help complete five new homes in what is the largest affordable single-family home development in Broward’s history.

Construction of homes was made possible in part by the $50,000 grant from Bank of America and stems from a shared vision that providing access to affordable housing advances economic mobility and enriches the community.

Order your 2023 Photo Calendar Today!

November 4, 2022 by Editor

My 2023 Photo Calendar is ready for preorder.

I have sent my order to the printing company. and should be ready in a week or two. I am using a Florida based printing company that has recovered from hurricane Ian.

The calendars will feature:

100# glossy paper
12″ x 9″ in size
wire bound
UV coated

I think I selected some terrific images for the 2023 calendar. If you need more than 5 calendars, please contact me and let me know how many you need.

Order your calendar today!
To order online – visit: https://www.leesmithphotos.com/calendar/

I am accepting Checks, Zelle and Credit Cards, let me know if you have any questions

This is a great way to support my work and help me at the same time.
Thank you!

Lee Smith, Photographer
Smitty’s Holdings, Inc.
Contact page: https://www.leesmithphotos.com/contact-us/

Are you looking for some new Wall Art?

October 29, 2022 by Editor

Take a look at our wide collection of colorful photographic Wall Art at Lee Smith Photos
Locally Printed by Expert Companies

Are you looking for some new Wall Art? — Visit https://www.leesmithphotos.com/ to view our wide selection of Artwork at affordable prices

Habitat for Humanity of Broward Appoints New Philanthropic Leader

October 9, 2022 by Editor

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. (September 20, 2022) – Habitat for Humanity of Broward has named Glenn Jenkins as its new Major Gifts Officer.

Jenkins brings to Habitat Broward a long history of nonprofit leadership and relationship building focused on matching the passion and intent of donors with the charitable expression of their values.

“We are entering an exciting new era of growth and I am delighted to welcome Glenn to a team dedicated to helping families achieve the ‘American Dream’ of homeownership,” said Nancy Robin, Habitat Broward CEO & Executive Director. “Glenn has a proven track record of forging long-term partnerships with donors that change lives thanks to his integrity and entrepreneurial spirit.”

Prior to Habitat Broward, Jenkins sat on the Board of Directors of Embrace Kids Foundation from 1997 to 2001. In August 2001 he transitioned from a volunteer role to that of the Acting Executive Director. He was appointed the Executive Director of the charity in August 2003 and held that position through December 2021. Throughout his tenure, Embrace Kids Foundation’s program funding increased five-fold and annual income increased by 10 percent (on average) every year from 2001 to 2017. He was the driving force behind the Embrace Kids Endowed Chair at Rutgers Cancer Institute, which became a permanent endowment in 2018.

Additionally, Jenkins held an important leadership and fundraising role in the formation of the Pediatric Palliative Care (PACCT) Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, which provide quality end-of-life care to children in their family homes.

Jenkins graduated from Rutgers University in 1995 with a degree in economics and minor in accounting. He then received a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Miami. He participated in a nationally recognized Leadership & Development Program at the University of Miami and received his graduate degree in 1997. In 2011, he completed a master’s degree in global management from Thunderbird, School of Global Management.

Habitat for Humanity of Broward Appoints New Board Members

October 2, 2022 by Editor

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. (September 21, 2022) – Habitat for Humanity of Broward has appointed four new board members – Timothy Bryant, Robyn Hankerson-Printemps, Kelley Jackson, and Maria Menendez.

“We are delighted to have Timothy, Robyn, Kelley and Maria join the board,” said Nancy Robin, Habitat Broward CEO & Executive Director. “They bring a diverse set of expertise to the already tremendously strong board, at a time where Habitat Broward is doing more than ever before to address Broward’s affordable workforce housing crisis”.

Bryant as Director of External Affairs for Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) has proven experience leveraging his unique combination of interpersonal skills and technical knowledge to deliver results in the electric utility sector. His extensive background working with elected officials and their staffs in the development of critical transmission and renewable energy projects, including utility-scale solar generating facilities across Florida. Additionally, he is a former commissioned officer in the U.S. Army National Guard, having served over 12 years in Kansas and North Carolina. He is currently licensed to practice engineering in the states of Alabama, Florida and Kansas and is a certified Six-Sigma Green Belt. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University and is a graduate of Baker University’s MBA program. He currently serves as a community stakeholder on several boards.

Hankerson-Printemps is a strategic communications professional with 15 years of experience in public relations, marketing, event planning, social media, media buying, community outreach, sponsor/partner development and fundraising. She is currently the Community Relations Manager at Publix Super Markets where she is leading community giving, strategic partnerships and philanthropic initiatives throughout the southeast coast of Florida from Monroe to Brevard Counties. She is also a part time adjunct professor at the University of Florida.

Jackson is a devoted volunteer with significant track record of success with organizations and is currently a Scientific Studies Manager at UnitedHealth Group; She leads the Clinical Quality Management Studies team of analysts and data technicians for continuous quality improvement within Veteran Affairs Community Care Network. She is an engaged, innovative nursing leader with experience spanning corporate health and wellness, patient education and outreach, clinical operations, direct patient care, and research. She received both her Bachelor of Science in nursing and Master of Science in advanced practice nursing from Michigan State University and Doctor of Philosophy in nursing science from Florida Atlantic University.

Menendez has served as chief financial officer of GL Homes of Florida Holding Corporation and GL Financial Services since 2002. She is also the chief financial officer of GL Commercial Holdings Corporation, which owns and operates twelve commercial centers throughout South Florida. GL Homes and subsidiaries is the nation’s 30th largest builder based on revenue and the nation’s 13th largest private homebuilder. She was recognized by Builder Magazine as one of “Home Building’s Most Powerful Women” and by Travel Agent Magazine as one of the “Most Powerful Women in Travel.” She received both her Bachelor of Business Administration degree in international business and her Bachelor of Science in accounting from Florida Atlantic University.

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Habitat for Humanity of Broward has welcomed Maggie Zalamea as its new Community Outreach and Advocacy Manager.

My friend Mark Potter, finally got his book published! It’s a beautiful heart felt story to read and the photos are just beautiful!

Bank of America Donates $50,000 and New Office Space Headquarters to Community Partner, Habitat for Humanity of Broward

Take a look at our wide collection of colorful photographic Wall Art at Lee Smith Photos Locally Printed by Expert Companies

Habitat for Humanity of Broward has welcomed Maggie Zalamea
as its new Community Outreach and Advocacy Manager.

My friend Mark Potter, finally got his book published!
It’s a beautiful heart felt story to read and the photos are just beautiful!

Bank of America Donates $50,000 and New Office Space Headquarters
to Community Partner, Habitat for Humanity of Broward

Take a look at our wide collection of colorful photographic Wall Art at Lee Smith Photos
Locally Printed by Expert Companies