Local News

Tri-Rail Appoints Interim Leader and Begins Search for New Executive Director. Following the departure of Executive Director David Dech, the Tri-Rail governing board has named longtime railroad staff member Diane Hernandez del Calvo as interim leader. The decision comes as the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority initiates a formal search for a permanent replacement. Tri-Rail, which serves Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties, carried over 4.5 million travelers last year. Dech is leaving to oversee a commuter rail service in the Midwest. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Feb 28) West Broward Miami, FL

Santa Monica Weighs Local Coastal Control Amid Proposed State Legislation. Santa Monica faces significant changes to coastal oversight if AB1740 is enacted, affecting areas from the northern city limit to the Venice border. The proposal would shift authority over much of the Coastal Zone from state to local control, with only a narrow buffer near the beach remaining under state review. Supporters raise concerns about potential overdevelopment and the loss of longstanding environmental and community character. The outcome could reshape land use for generations. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Feb 27) Westside Beaches Santa Monica, CA Venice, CA Sacramento, CA

Golden Girls Fan Event Scheduled at Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale. Fans of the classic sitcom 'The Golden Girls' are invited to attend an immersive fan event at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale. Scheduled for Saturday, March 14, the event features a parody performance, trivia games, bingo, and sing-alongs, as well as a Q&A session with creatives involved in the show's legacy. Set in South Florida, the series was renowned for its humor and ensemble cast. The celebration aims to honor the show's enduring connection to the region. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Feb 26) West Broward Miami, FL

Florida House Passes Bill Mandating Citizenship Checks and New Voter ID Rules. The Florida House of Representatives has approved a bill that would require citizenship verification for registered voters and restrict acceptable forms of identification used at polling places. Supporters assert these changes will enhance election integrity, while critics argue the measures could make voting more difficult for certain groups, including students, seniors, and women. The legislation reflects proposals recently endorsed at the national level and awaits further consideration in the legislative process. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Feb 25) West Broward Miami, FL

Las Olas Art Fair Returns Amid Streetscape Changes in Fort Lauderdale. The Las Olas Art Fair is set to take place this weekend in downtown Fort Lauderdale, marking the first major event on Las Olas Boulevard since the city approved streetscape changes. The recent removal of the median and black olive trees aimed to expand sidewalk space for pedestrians and outdoor dining. City commissioners plan to introduce new tree species along the widened walkways as part of the redesign. The fair provides an opportunity for residents to experience the updated boulevard and its evolving landscape. (Source: Broward Sun-Sentinel on Feb 25) West Broward Miami, FL

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