Latest News

December 27, 2025

  1. Fort Lauderdale Hosts Kwanzaa Celebration at African-American Cultural Center: Community members in Fort Lauderdale came together at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center for the 'Africa Rising' Kwanzaa celebration on December 27, 2025. The event focused on Kujichagulia, or self-determination, a core principle of Kwanzaa, and featured performances including African dance and the singing of the Black National Anthem. Attendees participated in a variety of cultural and educational activities. The occasion highlighted local engagement with African-American heritage and Kwanzaa traditions. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Dec 27)

December 16, 2025

  1. Fort Lauderdale Postpones Decision on Las Olas Boulevard Tree Removal: Fort Lauderdale city commissioners have delayed a decision on whether to remove the olive trees lining the median of Las Olas Boulevard. The matter, originally scheduled for discussion this week, will now be considered after the holidays in early January. The proposed redesign would eliminate the four-block median to allow for wider sidewalks and new cafes, though concerns remain about losing the area's distinctive character and the escalating estimated cost, which exceeded $200 million in 2023. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Dec 16)

October 31, 2025

  1. Rare Photos Reveal George Harrison's 1970 Visit to Deerfield Beach: Recently released photographs document George Harrison's previously secret visit to Deerfield Beach in November 1970. At that time, the former Beatles guitarist had just finished his landmark solo album, 'All Things Must Pass.' Harrison spent about 10 days in the area seeking solitude prior to the album's release, as locals quietly preserved his privacy. These images bring new insight into a little-known chapter of music history in Broward County. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 31)

October 29, 2025

  1. Pumpkin Spice Scented Car Washes Offered at Multiple Broward Locations: El Car Wash is offering a pumpkin spice scent option with car washes at its Broward County locations throughout October. Customers can request the seasonal scent at sites in Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, and North Lauderdale. Some locations also feature themed lighting to enhance the autumn atmosphere. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 13)

  2. Rodent droppings, dead roaches & flies landing on sandwich bread: 4 South Florida…: Three bakeries were among the four Broward County restaurants ordered temporarily shut last week during state inspections. Among the violations: flies landing on sandwich bread, roaches crawling in an oven door latch, and an employee who removed butter off the floor and continued cooking without washing their hands and changing gloves. No Palm Beach County restaurants faced emergency closure orders during this time period. The Sun Sentinel typically highlights restaurant inspections conducted by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation in Broward and Palm Beach counties. We cull through inspections that happen weekly and spotlight places ordered shut for “high-priority violations,” such as improper food temperatures or dead cockroaches. Related Articles 150 insects crawling on dried pasta, ‘chewed-through’ bag of biscuits: 9 South Florida restaurants shut Any restaurant that fails a state inspection must stay closed until it passes a follow-up. If you spot a possible violation and wish to file a complaint, contact Florida DBPR. (But please don’t contact us: The Sun Sentinel doesn’t inspect restaurants.) BROWARD COUNTY Las Americas Bakery of Dania Beach 419 E. Sheridan St., Dania Beach Ordered shut: Sept. 17 Why: 13 violations (three high-priority), including: Four roaches “seen crawling behind stove at cook line,” “behind trash can next to Delfield freezer” and “on the side of three-door True freezer in kitchen.” Nine dead roaches “on floor next to prep table in kitchen,” “under steam table at cook line,” “behind dry storage rack in kitchen preparation area,” “under three-compartment sink in ware-washing area” and “under hand wash sink next to walk-in cooler.” “Employee removed butter from floor with gloves, [threw it] in the trash and continued cooking without washing hands and changing gloves.” “Raw fish stored over cooked mushrooms” and “raw pork stored over cooked beef.” “Sugar and apple sauce stored uncovered” at dry storage rack. Status: Reopened Sept. 18 after a follow-up inspection found one basic violation. La Belle Monique Restaurant and Bakery 937 S. State Road 7, Plantation Ordered shut: Sept. 17 Why: 21 violations (eight high-priority), including: About four live roaches “in oven door latch on cook line in kitchen.” About 17 live flies “at cook line prep area landing on a box of gloves and a bag of sliced bread,” “in dry storage area landing on shelving and boxes,” “in dishwashing area landing on shelving and three-compartment sink” and “landing on equipment on cook line in kitchen.” “Raw fish stored above cooked beef in walk-in cooler.” Stop sale ordered “due to temperature abuse” for cooked items including chicken wings, macaroni and cheese, rice and beans, rice, legumes, spinach, turkey, oxtail, goat, chicken, curry beef, griot and plantains, as well as raw fish and shredded cheese. Time/temperature issues involved cabbage and eggplant mix. “Observed employee handling cell phone then proceed to prepare food without washing hands.” Status: Closed Sept. 18 after a second visit found nine violations (four high-priority). Reopened later that day after a reinspection found four intermediate and basic violations; a follow-up visit was required. Don Pan 11045 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines Ordered shut: Sept. 17 Why: 12 violations (four high-priority), including: About 24 flies “at front food preparation area landing on clean food containers, clean counter and sandwich bread” and “landing on napkin dispenser and single-package condiments at self-serving station.” Stop sale ordered for sandwich bread. “Observed operator washing and rinsing utensils and food containers without sanitizing.” “Observed no date marked on marinara sauce stored in refrigeration.” “Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls and ceiling.” Status: Reopened Sept. 18 after a follow-up visit found two basic violations. The Oak Cafe & Farmers Market Restaurants 2121 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Oakland Park Ordered shut: Sept. 19 Why: 13 violations (five high-priority), including: More than 16 rodent droppings “by back door,” “in rear kitchen by microwave counter,” “under cook line cooler” and “on floor next to hot box.” 11 dead roaches “on floor next to water heater,” “under counter in front counter area” and “under microwave table in back kitchen.” Three dead flies “on floor under windowsill in dining room” and “on the floor next to water heater.” Stop sale ordered for yams “due to temperature abuse.” “Raw pork stored over ackee with ready-to-eat food in a freezer — not all products commercially packaged.” “Observed ackee in store takeout bags.” Status: Reopened Sept. 20 after a follow-up inspection found no violations. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Sep 24)

  3. Three more men charged in shooting of toddler at Fort Lauderdale birthday party: FORT LAUDERDALE — Three men have been indicted in connection with the drive-by shooting that killed a 3-year-old last July while he was on the playground at a child’s birthday party in Riverland Park. Andrew St. Louis and Tommie Allen, both 19, and Antonio Carter, whose birthday is Thursday, were each charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder with a firearm. They join Tyler Tyrone Hollins, 20, of Lauderdale Lakes, who was indicted in March on charges of first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a delinquent. The same day, prosecutors charged Thaddeus Squire III, 23, of Oakland Park, with one count of accessory after the fact, according to court records. Squire aided Hollins in carrying out the July 21 shooting, according to the charging document and officer accounts, by driving one of the cars while Hollins fired the gun. Tyler Hollins, 20, was charged in March in the drive-by shooting death of 3-year-old Rylo Yancy in July 2024. (Broward Sheriff's Office/Courtesy) There appeared to be no indication that Hollin provided any information that led to the identity of the other suspects in the case. Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Bill Schultz said the men were identified by a combination of determined investigation and the cooperation of members of the community who came forward. Members of Rylo Yancy’s family attended a Thursday news conference at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department’s temporary headquarters where the Sept. 10 indictments were announced. “It is our hope that these arrests will bring some measure of peace and closure to you and to our community,” Schultz said. About 4:30 p.m. on July 21, a crowd of adults and toddlers had gathered for another child’s birthday party when more than 20 gunshots erupted from a passing car, sending them running, officials say. Rylo was taken to the hospital, where he later died. Hollins and Squire have both pleaded not guilty. Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis and Police Chief Bill Schultz gather with Rylo Yancy’s family during a press conference at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department's temporary headquarters on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. Police announced the recent arrests that have been made in the homicide of three-year-old Rylo Yancy. Rylo was killed in a drive-by shooting while attending another child's birthday party at Riverland Park. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Rylo Yancy’s grandfather Jerrold Pough gets emotional during a Thursday news conference at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department's temporary headquarters. Police announced the recent indictments of three more men in the drive-by shooting death of 3-year-old Rylo Yancy. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Bill Schultz gathers with Rylo Yancy’s family during a press conference at the police department's temporary headquarters on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. Police announced the recent arrests that have been made in the homicide of three-year-old Rylo Yancy. Rylo was killed in a drive-by shooting while attending another child's birthday party at Riverland Park. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)The family of Rylo Yancy, along with Police Chief Bill Schultz and other officials, gather during a press conference at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department's temporary headquarters on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. Police announced the recent arrests that have been made in the homicide of three-year-old Rylo Yancy. Rylo was killed in a drive-by shooting while attending another child's birthday party at Riverland Park. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)The family of Rylo Yancy, along with Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis and Police Chief Bill Schultz, gather during a press conference at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department's temporary headquarters on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, to announce recent arrests made in the homicide of three-year-old Rylo Yancy. Rylo was killed in a drive-by shooting while attending another child's birthday party at Riverland Park. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Rylo's great-grandmother Marcia Johnson and Rylo Yancy’s aunt Beverly Isaac get emotional during a press conference at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department's temporary headquarters on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. Police announced the recent arrests that have been made in the homicide of three-year-old Rylo Yancy. Rylo was killed in a drive-by shooting while attending another child's birthday party at Riverland Park. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Homicide Unit Sergeant Don Geiger talks with the media during a press conference at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department's temporary headquarters on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, to announce the recent arrests that have been made in the homicide of three-year-old Rylo Yancy. Rylo was killed in a drive-by shooting while attending another child's birthday party at Riverland Park. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)The family of Rylo Yancy, along with Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis and Police Chief Bill Schultz, gather during a press conference at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department's temporary headquarters on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, to announce recent arrests made in the homicide of three-year-old Rylo Yancy. Rylo was killed in a drive-by shooting while attending another child's birthday party at Riverland Park. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis and Police Chief Bill Schultz talk with Rylo Yancy’s aunt, Beverly Isaac, and Rylo's great-grandmother, Marcia Johnson during a press conference at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department's temporary headquarters on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. Police announced the recent arrests that have been made in the homicide of three-year-old Rylo Yancy. Rylo was killed in a drive-by shooting while attending another child's birthday party at Riverland Park. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Show Caption1 of 9Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis and Police Chief Bill Schultz gather with Rylo Yancy’s family during a press conference at the Fort Lauderdale Police Department's temporary headquarters on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. Police announced the recent arrests that have been made in the homicide of three-year-old Rylo Yancy. Rylo was killed in a drive-by shooting while attending another child's birthday party at Riverland Park. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Expand ‘My dogs did that’ During a deposition for Hollins’ case, a woman said that Squire, who goes by T3, had driven her to work at Flanagan’s for her 4 p.m. shift, just before the shooting. When he picked her up in a black Mercedes, she noticed that Hollins, who she did not know at the time, was in the back seat. At one point, the car pulled up to a stoplight next to two other people in a red Mercedes, she said. She realized that Hollins had a gun, and he and the people in the other car were “flashing guns, making jokes, oh, I’ll shoot you,” she recalled, making her feel uncomfortable. Law enforcement officers have said that a 2022 red Mercedes-Benz sedan and a 2017 black Mercedes-Benz sedan are believed to have been involved in the shooting. Thaddeus Squire was arrested on Sept. 30 in connection to the shooting of Rylo Yancy, records show. (Broward Sheriff's Office/Courtesy) A few days after the shooting, the woman said Squire called her and told her “my dogs did that,” according to the deposition. He said that “they were trying to get a person … who they had beef with or whatever, and it hit the baby instead of the person they were trying to get,” she said. The men had gone to the birthday party after their intended target had posted on Instagram that he was there. The woman said she had identified Squire in a lineup and has since stopped talking to him. A Fort Lauderdale police officer said in another deposition that he had interviewed Squire, who was in the back of a patrol car, the day of the shooting. Squire told him that he had been renting the black Mercedes that was connected to the shooting but his friends had borrowed it between 3 and 5 p.m. that day. He then gave them the names of three friends. Police released him that day, lacking enough evidence to tie him to the shooting, according to the deposition. Then, months later, Squire was arrested again on a theft warrant. During an interview at the Fort Lauderdale Police headquarters, officers showed him pictures and videos of him in the black Mercedes, the officer said in the deposition. Squire then admitted to being the driver of the car while Hollins fired the weapon. He said they had received information that an “opp” was at the park and they had decided to shoot at them while they were there. After receiving this information, police still did not arrest Squire, the officer said, because they wanted to work towards getting warrants for the other suspects. This is a developing story, so check back for updates. Click here to have breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Sep 25)

  4. Show some respect: South Florida diners & servers expose unspoken rules for a…: Those of us who love to eat out have had many encounters with irritating servers. But those same waiters and waitresses may also find us diners annoying and exasperating. Can’t we all just get along? It’s no secret that South Florida restaurant patrons can be demanding. But even in the face of rude diners, restaurants are supposed to train their staffs to be polite and efficient. This is actually a complicated process behind the scenes, said Peter Ricci, director of the hospitality and tourism management program at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. “Restaurant profit margins are slim, so training and development are often not a part of the process,” he said. “Also, one must recognize that restaurant front-of-house roles are somewhat high-turnover compared to other industries. With higher turnover, there is less likelihood for development of training, knowledge of all the systems (which can lead to dissatisfaction among guests), and a ‘new face’ every time regular guests return to the venue.” Restaurant owners are aware that the server-guest relationship can be fraught and say they try to train their staffs to handle all sorts of personalities. “We emphasize to our servers to actually make a connection with our guests, to not be robotic with their motions,” said Eddie Pozzuoli, co-owner of five restaurants in Palm Beach and Broward counties (including Eddie & Vinny’s in Coral Springs and Dear Olivia in Parkland). “Every individual is different and their wants and needs are different. We are in the hospitality business and and our guests need to feel comfortable with us.” Server Brian Anders works at Eddie and Vinny's in Coral Springs. Servers often make a tough job look easy. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel) Diners have to do their part, too, Pozzuoli said. “The guest needs to understand that we are all human and sometimes make mistakes,” he said. “As management, if we don’t have an opportunity to fix it, there shouldn’t be judgment passed on us.” Readers of “Let’s Eat, South Florida,” the Sun Sentinel’s foodie Facebook page, have voiced strong opinions on the diner-server relationship. We also received email messages from restaurant patrons grumbling about their interactions with servers and from servers lamenting customer behavior. Here are some tips culled from the conversations. Among the major takeaways: Communicate clearly and be patient, as there are often complicated situations behind the scenes that we diners can’t see. Tips from diners: How to be a better server Know who got which dish. Servers who come to the table, with plates fresh from the kitchen, and ask who got the lasagna or the prime rib exasperate many “Let’s Eat” posters, who call the process a form of “roulette” or the “auctioning off of the dishes.” Advice to servers from diner Stacy Rabstein Buckley: “Take your order in a specific way so that you know who got what!” Related Articles Dining alone in South Florida: Follow these tips for a satisfying solo meal I can’t hear you: Are restaurants getting louder? ‘Bring Your Own Food’? South Florida restaurant owners push back on this expanding trend Find your sweet spot: Here are a few of our favorite South Florida bakeries Don’t take a plate away too early. Many diners complained that servers try to remove their dishes while they are still chewing. “My fork and knife (are) still in my hand and I am clearly eating,” reader Wendy Spano Bracco said. “You have to say, ‘Excuse me, I am still eating.’ Often this happens more than once.” There’s also the other extreme on this topic: when the wait staff fails to clear empty plates. “My pet peeve as a diner is when the servers come by your table several times but don’t clear the used dishes or glasses,” AnnMarie Cardin said in an email. Include the price in the specials. Most commenters want to hear the cost of specials, although some find the price recital tacky or they tune out. As Donna Pittala put it: “I’d rather have a specials menu so I can think about it and remember it. I’ve ended up not even listening anymore unless it’s a special night and money is no object.” Time the courses with precision. Timing is a function of kitchen output and sufficient staffing, but it still irks many diners when their dishes come out too quickly. “No bigger pet peeve for me than when my entree comes before I’ve finished the starter,” wrote Hollywood resident Lori Poulton. “I don’t care how slow an eater I am, I always ask to have the order not put in until I’m finished because I want a few minutes between, but it never seems to happen.” Diners who like to eat alone seek out restaurants that make them feel welcome and not overlooked. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel file) Don’t ignore women. It’s unlikely any restaurant would intentionally turn a blind eye to half the population, but several women said they often feel passed over. “Pet peeve is female bartenders ignoring female patrons such as myself and my girlfriends at the bar,” said Maria Hopke, of Boynton Beach. “It’s not every bar but it’s enough to notice. They assume because we are women that we won’t tip. Boy are they wrong!” Diner Janie Nielsen said she is often overlooked when eating alone. “And (I have) to wave the service down because the server isn’t interested in a party of one,” she said. Make sure to greet newly seated customers and don’t disappear after you’ve served the meal. As Alana O’Connor put it in the “Let’s Eat” group: “It’s pretty simple. Greet me within 5 [minutes] of seating, check on us after food is delivered and don’t take too long to bring me the check/pay.” That is also Delray Beach resident Claudia Silverberg’s peeve: “Waiting too long to receive the check, and waiting too long for them to return so that I can pay. It shouldn’t take 15 minutes + to check out. Don’t they want to turn tables over?” Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun SentinelA diner leaves a cash tip at Olympia Flame Diner in Deerfield Beach. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel) Don’t stand on top of diners while they are deciding on the tip. Tipping procedures vex even the most seasoned restaurantgoers. Many feel antagonized when servers watch as their guests choose a tip on electronic devices. And then there are the preprogrammed tip options. Peter Solomon said: “My biggest pet peeve is the new payment systems that require a tip starting at 25% and up, especially for pick-up or take-away. It’s ridiculous at table service. Used to be 20% for excellent service, 15 for decent and anything less for less than that … [Then] they are staring at you as you try to put in a custom tip.” Suggestions from servers: How to be a better diner Be ready to order. The wait staff knows diners want to socialize, but they are also working in a business that needs to keep the tables moving. “As a server it annoys me when I go to a table and I say, ‘good evening/good afternoon,’ and the answer is, ‘we’re not ready to order yet,’ ” said Gissele Belechiano of Oakland Park. Don’t leave your stuff in the middle of the table. “Be aware that your server does not want to touch your personal items — phone, keys, wallet or eye glasses,” server Janet Holloway wrote. “Place these items at the edge of the table or bring a purse.” Don’t complain on social media. Holloway had another tip for customers who are eager to criticize restaurants in very public forums. “The absolute worst thing a customer can do is to go on Yelp or Google and just trash the place and/or throw their server under the bus (from the customer’s keyboard),” Holloway said. “Address the problem when it happens with the manager on duty.” “Dining out isn’t a life-or-death experience and as long as the interaction is professional and polite, no one should ever have to be rude on either server or guest side.” — Maddy Micinski, server Respect the table set-up. That means, according to server Maria Stathis: Don’t sit at a dirty table when there are plentiful clean ones. Don’t ask to switch tables in the middle of service. Don’t take chairs or silverware from another table. “That server worked hard to prepare their station,” Stathis said. Consolidate your requests. “For example, asking for an iced tea, receiving it, asking for sugar, receiving it, then asking for lemons,” said Daniela Herrera, who works at a Delray Beach restaurant. “Had this been all requested at once, we could have saved some time with the ping-pinging and had more time to have fun.” Have situational awareness. Get a feel of how crowded the eatery is. It may not be the best time to be indecisive about your order. “With so many moving parts, when guests are not aware of how busy the restaurant is and stop their server to request recommendations, only to sit there thinking, or going ‘hmmmm…’ it can slow everyone down,” Herrera said. Don’t ask ‘Are you going to remember all this?’ “I have, in nearly a decade of being in the restaurant industry, never encountered a server who memorized orders if they could not remember them,” Herrera said. “As long as I am mentally organizing the information in my own way, I will not forget it. With that being said, when guests ask, ‘Are you going to remember this?’ I forget everything. This is a curveball that is very embarrassing to try to catch. It is a lot of extra pressure that makes me want to just use a notebook even if I do not need to.” The upshot from these conversations Give servers credit for making a tough job (usually) look easy. “Servers memorize entire menus, the layout of the restaurant, their schedules weeks in advance, and orders of our regulars,” Herrera said. “We can do this. We are a lot of caffeinated, crazy people who want to take care of the public, even if they do not always take care of us.” Server Maddy Micinski agreed: “Dining out isn’t a life-or-death experience and as long as the interaction is professional and polite, no one should ever have to be rude on either server or guest side.” (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 7)

  5. Thousands gather across South Florida for second wave of national anti-Trump ‘No…: Thousands of protesters lined the sidewalks from Miami to West Palm Beach Saturday, chanting “dump Trump,” wearing inflatable animal costumes and singing the national anthem as part of the second wave of anti-Trump, “No Kings” demonstrations across the country. Like the previous round of “No Kings” protests in June, the theme of the demonstrations was democracy. Participants echoed concerns raised over the summer, including the administration’s widespread immigration crackdown, economic inequality and infringements on due process. But many said their unease had deepened in the last few months, with several pointing to the deployment of the military to Democrat-led cities, ramped up deportations, and what they saw as a weaponization of Christian ideology. “I just think it’s building momentum, his cruelty, his bad decisions, his anti-democracy ideology,” said Stephen Dubin, 73, who attended a Boca Raton protest with his 12-year-old granddaughter and her friend. “It’s just getting worse and worse.” Saturday’s demonstrations unfolded across multiple parts of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach and Miami while Trump was spending the weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach. They were largely peaceful and heavily policed, though some clashes with counterprotesters occurred. In Boca Raton, a crowd of approximately 3,000 lined the blocks surrounding City Hall as a stream of cars drove by, many covered in anti-Trump messaging, honking in support. Occasionally, a car would pass bearing Trump flags; one driver had placed a human-sized skeleton giving the middle finger in his passenger seat. Another driver yelled, “get a job!” Many protesters were middle-aged or older. Some wore shirts identifying themselves as Vietnam veterans, while others recounted protesting the Vietnam War during the 1960s and 1970s. Some said that what they had witnessed in decades past does not compare to what is happening now. “We never thought in our lifetime, after the sixties and seventies, that this would happen,” said Susan Ivers, 74. Her husband, Joel Ivers, added, “I do think democracy is on the line and we’re losing it if we don’t do something.” A few protesters along A1A in Fort Lauderdale carried signs invoking the sacrifices made by parents and grandparents in fighting fascism in World War II. “Makin’ My World War II Vet Grampa Proud,” read a sign carried by Denise Gallo, 52, of Fort Lauderdale, which also displayed a Purple Heart symbol in honor of her grandfather’s service against the Japanese army on Okinawa. “I’m scared for my country right now,” she said. “I see the direction Trump is going in. He’s trying to be a dictator.” Multiple participants, including those who were younger, said they had personal experience with Trump’s widespread deportations. They included Boca rally attendees Morgan Dailey and Hilina Thomas, both 18-year-old freshman at Palm Beach State College who said they knew other young people who had encounters with ICE; one former classmate of theirs may have to leave the country without graduating because of his immigration status. One 11-year-old girl told the Sun Sentinel that she worries for her mother, who is undocumented. “My mom doesn’t deserve to get deported on stolen land,” she said. At Oakland Park Boulevard and Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale, a crowd estimated by organizers at more than 2,500 wrapped around the Coral Ridge Mall, with demonstrators holding signs and receiving an almost constant barrage of supportive car honks. Some signs appeared aimed at getting under the skin of a touchy chief executive: “Release the Epstein Files” and “Our we great yet? ‘Cause I just feel embarrassed.” One sign offered a flabby and unflattering image of Trump and read “No kings – No idiots either.” Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along US1 and Oakland Park Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along US1 and Oakland Park Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along US1 and Oakland Park Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along US1 and Oakland Park Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Supporters gather along A1A and Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration. Saturday, Oct 18, 2025 (Jim Rassol/Contributor).Protesters expressed their opinions at the Miami-Torch of Friendship in downtown, Miami, during the 'No Kings' anti-Trump protests taking place nationwide and all across South Florida, on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald)Protesters expressed their opinions at the Miami-Torch of Friendship in downtown, Miami, during the 'No Kings' anti-Trump protests taking place nationwide and all across South Florida, on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald)Protesters expressed their opinions at the Miami-Torch of Friendship in downtown, Miami, during the 'No Kings' anti-Trump protests taking place nationwide and all across South Florida, on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald)Tim Langion was among a group of protesters that expressed their opinions at the Miami-Torch of Friendship in downtown, Miami, during the 'No Kings' anti-Trump protests taking place nationwide and all across South Florida, on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald)Protesters expressed their opinions at the Miami-Torch of Friendship in downtown, Miami, during the 'No Kings' anti-Trump protests taking place nationwide and all across South Florida, on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald)Monica Tracy was among a group of protesters that expressed their opinions at the Miami-Torch of Friendship in downtown, Miami, during the 'No Kings' anti-Trump protests taking place nationwide and all across South Florida, on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald)Protesters expressed their opinions at the Miami-Torch of Friendship in downtown, Miami, during the 'No Kings' anti-Trump protests taking place nationwide and all across South Florida, on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald)Mariam Zambrana, Isabel and Sebastian were among a group of protesters that expressed their opinions at the Miami-Torch of Friendship in downtown, Miami, during the 'No Kings' anti-Trump protests taking place nationwide and all across South Florida, on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald)Protesters expressed their opinions at the Miami-Torch of Friendship in downtown, Miami, during the 'No Kings' anti-Trump protests taking place nationwide and all across South Florida, on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald)Protesters expressed their opinions at the Miami-Torch of Friendship in downtown, Miami, during the 'No Kings' anti-Trump protests taking place nationwide and all across South Florida, on Saturday Oct. 18, 2025. (Pedro Portal/Miami Herald)Show Caption1 of 53Supporters gather along NW 2nd Ave. and Palmetto Park Rd. in Boca Raton for a ”No Kings” rally protesting the Trump administration, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (Jim Rassol/Contributor)Expand In a demonstration made up primarily of people who were middle aged and older, several people said they feared the America they loved appeared to be slipping away, as Trump and his followers embraced hatred, greed and strong-man rule. “I’m here to fight to get back to the America I grew up with,” said Dalia Alemán, 59, an actor from Davie. “I came from a family of immigrants. I have two adult sons that I’m fighting for, for their future. This is not America. What we’re living in today is a nightmare.” Vicky Taormina, 61, of Oakland Park, held an American flag and a sign that read “Defend the Constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic.” “For the first time in my life, I’m scared for our country,” she said “I’m scared for our freedom, for the journalists that walked out of the Pentagon, for the people thrown out of the country without due process. They never should use the military against the American people.” This is a developing story, so check back for updates. Click here to have breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 18)

October 26, 2025

  1. Jamaican Fashion and Culture to Be Showcased at Stylin' 2025 in Lauderhill: This weekend, the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center will host Stylin' 2025, a two-night fashion event highlighting the work of Jamaican designers. The showcase also features pop-up boutiques, head wrap demonstrations, and local personalities modeling unique looks. Proceeds will benefit the Louise Bennett-Coverley Heritage Council, which supports cultural arts in honor of the celebrated Jamaican poet and folklorist. The event aims to celebrate the blend of fashion and Caribbean heritage. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Sep 17)

October 24, 2025

  1. Deerfield Beach Welcomes Three New Oceanfront Restaurants Amid Revitalization: Deerfield Beach has introduced three new oceanfront restaurants along the revitalized S-Curve area near Hillsboro Boulevard and the International Fishing Pier. Bravo Mar and Lucky Lou’s Raw Bar have opened, with The Break House Kitchen & Beach Bar set to join them in the coming month, offering Peruvian, Caribbean cuisine, and the area’s first rooftop bar. These openings coincide with the city’s significant public infrastructure investments, including $8 million in pier upgrades. These changes mark a new chapter for the neighborhood. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 24)

October 16, 2025

  1. Florida Stone Crab Season Opens With Stable Prices in Broward and Palm Beach: The 2025 Florida stone crab season has begun, with initial catches arriving at restaurants and seafood markets in Broward and Palm Beach counties. Prices remain steady compared to previous years, and local seafood suppliers report strong demand and good harvests, though medium-sized claws are less b (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 16)

October 14, 2025

  1. Stone crab season begins in Broward County with steady supply and stable prices: Stone crab season starts October 15 in Broward County, with local restaurants and seafood markets anticipating a healthy supply. Early reports from docks suggest that prices for stone crab claws will remain similar to last spring. The first catches are expected to reach area purveyors by October 16, (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 14)

October 10, 2025

  1. Flood Advisory Issued for Broward County After Heavy Rain and High Tide: Several areas in Broward County, including Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, and Hallandale Beach, experienced road flooding following heavy rainfall during high tide. Up to 4 inches of rain fell in some locations, submerging roads in Wilton Manors, Oakland Park, and Pompano Beach. A mud- (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 10)

October 9, 2025

  1. Charter School Group Proposes Rent-Free Use of 27 Broward Campuses: A Miami-based charter school operator has formally requested to share space rent-free on 27 public school campuses in Broward County, aiming to open new charter programs by August 2027. Similar proposals have been made in other Florida districts, raising concerns about potential impacts on local K-– (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 9)

October 8, 2025

  1. Fall Events and Halloween Activities Planned Across West Broward: Families in West Broward can look forward to a range of autumn activities, including pumpkin patches, trick-or-treating, hayrides, and local festivals. Some events feature unique options like floating pumpkin patches in community pools. The guide covers public events in Broward and Palm Beach, with (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 8)

October 1, 2025

  1. Local Events This Weekend: Festivals, Markets, and Live Entertainment in Broward and : This weekend in Broward County and nearby areas features several seasonal events, including Oakland Park Oktoberfest, West Palm Beach GreenMarket, Boca Raton's Night Market, and Oyster Fest on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Additionally, a live stage version of MasterChef All-Stars will be held at The P in  (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Oct 1)

September 17, 2025

  1. Local Events This Weekend Include Concerts, Wine Cruise, and New Cocktail Series: Residents in the west Broward area can choose from several activities this weekend, including a Cage the Elephant concert, a Water Taxi wine cruise, and a screening of 'Midnight Cowboy.' Additionally, Driftwood in Boynton Beach is launching a Tiki Thursdays cocktail series, featuring guest bartender (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Sep 17)

September 15, 2025

  1. Courtyard Cafe Returns in Shared Space With Italian Restaurant on Wilton Drive: After closing two years ago, the former Shawn & Nick's Courtyard Cafe has reopened within Dom Caruso's Cucina at 2468 Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors. The new venture, Caruso's and Courtyard Cafe, serves diner-style breakfasts and lunches by day and Italian dishes by night, reflecting a partnership of (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Sep 15)