• Exploring Pickleball in Fort Lauderdale:,Melissa Carbonell

    Exploring Pickleball in Fort Lauderdale:

    Exploring Pickleball in Fort Lauderdale: Your Fort Lauderdale Ultimate Guide , known for its vibrant lifestyle and beautiful beaches, is also home to a rapidly growing pickleball community. This engaging sport, which combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is attracting players of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer, Fort Lauderdale offers numerous courts to enjoy this fun activity. Here’s everything you need to know about pickleball courts in the city. Pickleball Courts in Fort Lauderdale Dedicated Pickleball Facilities Fort Lauderdale boasts several dedicated pickleball courts where enthusiasts can play year-round: Benenson Park Hours: Daily, 6 AM - Sunset Courts: 6 George English Park Hours: Daily, 6 AM - 9 PM Courts: 8 Holiday Park Hours: Daily, 6 AM - 9:30 PM Courts: 6 the lights at Holiday Park remain on all night, providing an opportunity for evening play and accommodating those who prefer to play after sunset. Osswald Park Hours: Daily, 6 AM - 9 PM Courts: 4 Sunrise Middle School Address: 1750 NE 14th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 Hours: Weekdays, 3 PM - Sunset; Weekends, 6 AM - Sunset Courts: 6 (plus an additional 8 temporary courts; portable net required) Pickleball Lines on Tennis Courts In addition to dedicated facilities, several parks have converted tennis courts with pickleball lines: Bass Park Hours: Daily, 6 AM - 9 PM Carter Park Hours: Daily, 6 AM - 9 PM   Hardy Park Hours: Daily, 6 AM - 9 PM Riverside Park Hours: Daily, 6 AM - 9 PM Upcoming Developments Exciting news for pickleball fans: Fort Lauderdale is set to open the world's first dedicated pickleball stadium at Snyder Park in December 2024. This state-of-the-art facility will feature professional regulation courts and provide a vibrant social atmosphere for players and spectators alike. Community Engagement Pickleball is not just about the game; it's about community. The sport fosters connections among players of all skill levels. Many parks host open play sessions where newcomers can join seasoned players and learn the ropes. Additionally, local clubs often organize tournaments and social events to enhance the experience. Conclusion With its growing number of courts and an enthusiastic community, Fort Lauderdale is quickly becoming a hotspot for pickleball enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to play casually or competitively, there's a place for you in this vibrant sport. Grab your paddle and join the fun at one of the many courts around the city!

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  • Christmas on Las Olas: A Festive Celebration in Fort Lauderdale,Melissa Carbonell

    Christmas on Las Olas: A Festive Celebration in Fort Lauderdale

    Christmas on Las Olas: A Festive Celebration in Fort Lauderdale As the holiday season approaches, Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, welcoming locals and visitors to the annual Christmas on Las Olas celebration. This beloved event is a highlight of the holiday calendar, offering a unique blend of festive activities, shopping opportunities, and community spirit. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes this celebration so special.   A Magical Atmosphere One of the most enchanting aspects of Christmas on Las Olas is the stunning display of holiday lights and decorations that adorn the boulevard. From twinkling fairy lights to beautifully decorated trees, the entire area radiates holiday cheer. The festive ambiance creates an inviting atmosphere for families, friends, and couples to come together and celebrate the season. Festive Activities for Everyone Christmas on Las Olas is packed with activities that cater to all ages. Here are some of the key highlights: Live Entertainment: Throughout the event, attendees can enjoy live music performances featuring local bands and artists. These performances often include festive holiday classics that encourage everyone to sing along and embrace the joyous spirit of the season. Children's Activities: The event is particularly family-friendly, offering a variety of activities designed for children. Kids can meet Santa Claus, participate in arts and crafts, and enjoy holiday-themed games. These activities not only entertain but also create lasting memories for families. Holiday Market: One of the main attractions of Christmas on Las Olas is the holiday market, where local vendors showcase their crafts and products. Shoppers can find unique gifts ranging from handmade ornaments to gourmet food items. This market not only supports local artisans but also provides visitors with an opportunity to find one-of-a-kind presents for their loved ones. Culinary Delights EXPLORE FOOD + DRINK MEMBERS Las Olas Boulevard is renowned for its vibrant dining scene, and during Christmas on Las Olas, many restaurants join in the festivities by offering special holiday menus. Visitors can indulge in seasonal dishes that reflect the flavors of the holidays, from traditional favorites to innovative culinary creations. Outdoor dining options allow guests to enjoy their meals while soaking in the festive atmosphere. Community Spirit A defining feature of Christmas on Las Olas is its emphasis on community involvement. Local businesses and organizations come together to create a sense of unity and togetherness during this special time of year. The event encourages residents to engage with one another, fostering connections that strengthen community bonds. Christmas on Las Olas is our gift to the community. It's the most wonderful time of year and we're so proud to bring the whole community together to celebrate!    Back Row L to R: Richard Klinge; Truly Nolen Glen Levine; The Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine, Maria Doherty; Las Olas Association, Jodi Tanner; Las Olas Capital Arts, Luke Moorman; Carroll's Jewelers, Terry Willis, Manny Sanchez; Truly Nolen, Kenny Walker; Audacy Radio. Front L to R: John D'Abruzzo; Truly Nolen, Amanda Wasserman; Florida Panthers, Ashley O, Julie Guy; Audacy Radio, Linda Brown; Linda Brown Events, Stanley C. Panther; Florida Panthers Exhibit at or Sponsor Christmas on Las Olas Join us on Tuesday, December 3rd 2024 from 5:00PM - 10:00PM from SE 6th Avenue to SE 11th AvenueLearn about sponsorship opportunities available at this year's show.   Conclusion Christmas on Las Olas is more than just an event; it’s a celebration that encapsulates the spirit of the holidays through community engagement, festive activities, and local charm. Whether you’re looking to shop for unique gifts, enjoy delicious food, or simply soak in the holiday spirit with loved ones, this celebration offers something for everyone.As you plan your visit to Fort Lauderdale during this festive season, be sure to mark your calendar for Christmas on Las Olas. It promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with joy, laughter, and holiday magic.For more details about specific dates and additional information about events during Christmas on Las Olas, visit their official website here.     Disclaimer: All photos and resources on this blog belongs to the rightful owners. This blog is for publication of melcarbonell marketing only.

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  • Understanding Broward County Florida’s 2024 Ballot Amendments: A Guide to Key Issues and Decisions,Melissa Carbonell

    Understanding Broward County Florida’s 2024 Ballot Amendments: A Guide to Key Issues and Decisions

    Understanding Florida’s 2024 Ballot Amendments: A Guide to Key Issues and Decisions Hello, Florida voters! With the 2024 election season in full swing, many of us are gearing up to make informed choices on a range of local, county, and state issues. From education to conservation, property taxes to privacy rights, there are several important amendments on this year’s ballot that could shape Florida’s future in significant ways. Let’s dive into each proposed amendment and referendum on the Florida ballot, breaking down the essentials so you can feel confident when you head to the polls. 1. Constitutional Amendment 1: Making School Boards Partisan This amendment proposes to change the way Florida school boards operate by making them partisan. Right now, school board members don’t officially align with political parties, allowing decisions to ideally remain focused on education rather than party agendas. Amendment 1 would require members to declare a political party, creating an alliance that might sway board decisions. Why this matters: Partisan school boards could lead to decisions heavily influenced by party politics, potentially overshadowing local educational needs. Proponents believe this would add transparency, while opponents argue it may create unnecessary divisions. My Take: I’ll be voting No on this one, as I prefer school board decisions to stay as nonpartisan as possible, focusing solely on our children’s education. 2. Constitutional Amendment 2: Protecting Traditional Hunting and Fishing Rights Amendment 2 aims to protect the traditional rights to hunt and fish in Florida. This amendment highlights the cultural and conservation importance of these activities, allowing people to hunt and fish in ways that honor Florida’s outdoor heritage. Both sides make conservation arguments, but concerns about overreach and the impact on Florida’s invasive species have been raised. Why this matters: Protecting these rights ensures that outdoor traditions can continue, which is important for many Floridians. However, some worry about the broader implications on conservation policies. My Take: I’m leaning towards Yes on this amendment to protect traditional hunting and fishing practices. 3. Constitutional Amendment 3: Legalizing Recreational Marijuana This is one of the most talked-about amendments on the ballot. Amendment 3 would legalize recreational marijuana use for adults 21 and over. While some states have embraced legal marijuana and seen revenue boosts, concerns have been raised about increased drugged driving and law enforcement needs. Critics also note that Florida already has accessible medical marijuana for those who need it. Why this matters: Legalization can bring economic benefits but may also present public safety challenges. For voters, it’s a decision between the convenience of legal access and potential public health concerns. My Take: I’ll be voting No here, as I prefer to keep recreational marijuana limited for now, especially given concerns about increased driving incidents and its effect on young adults’ brain development. 4. Constitutional Amendment 4: Expanding Access to Abortion This highly debated amendment addresses the right to access abortions. Amendment 4 proposes expanding abortion access, allowing for easier and more flexible options for women across the state. There are complex situations that could arise, such as young women without safe resources, or victims of controlling relationships. This amendment would ensure that women have the freedom to make decisions based on their personal circumstances. Why this matters: Expanding access to abortions can have profound implications on personal freedoms and public health. Proponents argue it’s essential for women’s rights, while opponents cite ethical concerns. My Take: I believe in supporting personal choice and access to safe healthcare. Therefore, I’m voting Yes on this amendment. 5. Constitutional Amendment 5: Controlling Homestead Property Tax Adjustments For Florida homeowners, this amendment addresses property tax increases. Amendment 5 proposes to cap annual inflation adjustments on homestead properties, allowing residents to enjoy lower tax increases even as inflation rises. This could potentially shift more tax burdens to non-homesteaded properties like investment homes and rental properties, which often drive up local housing costs. Why this matters: With rising inflation, protecting homestead properties from high tax increases is important for homeowners. My Take: I’m voting Yes on this one, hoping it will support primary residents while shifting some tax responsibilities onto investment properties. 6. Constitutional Amendment 6: Taxpayer Money for Political Campaigns Amendment 6 concerns whether taxpayer funds should be used to support political campaigns. At some point, taxpayer money became accessible for campaign use in Florida. This amendment seeks to prevent this, keeping taxpayer funds out of political financing. Why this matters: Many voters feel strongly that tax dollars should not support political campaigns, arguing it gives an unfair advantage and misuses public funds. My Take: I’ll be voting Yes to prohibit taxpayer money from being used in political campaigns. Local Broward County Referendums: Housing Council and Inspector General Lastly, Broward County has two referendums up for consideration. These referendums focus on the Broward County Housing Council and the Inspector General’s office, though the details remain a bit unclear to many. If you have further insights or information about the pros and cons of these measures, please share! Making a well-informed decision is crucial, and I’m open to learning more before election day. Final Thoughts: Making Your Voice Count Voting isn’t just about picking a candidate – it’s about shaping policies that affect our everyday lives. Each amendment on this ballot represents a choice on significant issues that impact Florida’s future, from education and public safety to property taxes and personal rights. Remember, an informed vote is a powerful vote. Take the time to understand each amendment and how it aligns with your values. And if you’re unsure, seek out additional resources or ask questions – informed discussions help us all make better decisions for our communities. Happy voting, and let’s make a difference in Florida’s future!

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