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CBS News
3 days ago
- Climate
- CBS News
As South Florida enters 2025 hurricane season, Fort Lauderdale residents prepare for all kinds of severe weather
South Florida is officially in hurricane season and people are already preparing for severe weather of all kinds. CBS News Miami went to Fort Lauderdale to see how residents are hunkering down in vulnerable areas. Jesus Sanchez said after sitting through enough storms, he has hurricane prep down to a routine. "You can see over the years that I have to get it replaced, but it's very sturdy," Sanchez said. He has to fit his stuff in this little shed that doubles as a laundry room. "It's gotta be like Tetris: You gotta know how to fit things," Sanchez said. He screws it shut so it won't fly open. "Zip and zip," Sanchez said. And Sanchez also has to ensure his rental units have nothing that could fly off and hit something or someone. "These are a foot on the ground," Sanchez said. He said his property is ready for hurricane season, and Florida Power & Light has put out its recommendations for what supplies you'll need. Some of those include: Radios Flashlights Batteries and a Phone charger Non-perishable food Disposable dinnerware and utensils Supplies of Prescriptions and toiletries Houses aren't the only buildings that have to be ready. The commander at the American Legion Post 36 said the building is higher and less vulnerable to flooding, and he said because of that, first responders, the Red Cross and FEMA have set up stations here in the past during an emergency. "That used to be a window," said Dennis Rooy, Commander of the American Legion Post 36. "If there was a hurricane, it could have come through that window." Rooy said the decades-old building has a new roof, adding that it's vital to keep the power on at this place and he does that by keeping water away from the circuits. He also said the legion sometimes serves food to people during a storm when their power is out. "It's for anybody that needs something, they're welcome to come," Rooy said. "If we're able to cool, we'll do it for them." Both the legion and Sanchez's house are in the Edgewood neighborhood, which can be prone to flooding. Sanchez said the flooding is still bad, but added that the water subsides much faster now.
E&E News
7 days ago
- Business
- E&E News
Group claiming to represent data centers objects to Fla. utility rate hike push
TALLAHASSEE, Florida — A nascent group claiming to represent planned new data centers in the state is objecting to Florida Power & Light's $2.5 billion rate hike request. Details: State records show the Florida Energy for Innovation Association was incorporated May 7, just eight days before it asked the Public Service Commission to allow it to intervene in the rate case. The association said in a motion that the FPL request includes a new rate structure that would charge large customers, including data centers, 65 percent more than existing rates. Advertisement The Florida Energy for Innovation Association doesn't give any details about the new centers it says its members are planning. And FPL objected to allowing the association to intervene.
CBS News
7 days ago
- Climate
- CBS News
FPL shares its 2025 hurricane preparedness checklist to help Floridians get ready for the next big storm
With the official start to the Atlantic Hurricane Season just days away, Florida Power & Light is urging all customers to be prepared before the storm hits home. This week, FPL released its annual checklist of important details for Floridians to consider before, during and after a tropical storm or hurricane, saying that "safety is the cornerstone of our commitment to customers and employees." "It is not a matter of if, but when the next hurricane will hit our state, which is why it's important to be proactive in planning for the six-month-long hurricane season," the utility provider said. The consensus among hurricane forecasters is that the Atlantic Ocean, with generally warmer-than-normal water temperatures, is poised for another above-average season. The season will start Sunday and last through Nov. 30. With that in mind, here are FPL's tips on how to get ready before the storm strikes: Create an emergency plan with your family FPL said people should first determine if their home or business is in a flood and evacuation zone, and review their evacuation routes. Also, Floridians should determine their backup power source or make necessary arrangements to relocate themselves if a storm warning is issued. According to FPL, the Division of Emergency Management recommends keeping gas tanks at least half full during hurricane season, and electric vehicles need to maintain a 50%-80% charge at all times. Floridians should also contact their local emergency management office if they or anyone they know has special needs, in case of evacuations. FPL also recommends that Floridians apply for its Medically Essential Service if someone in their home is dependent on electric-powered, life-sustaining medical equipment. Build an emergency kit FPL also recommends that Floridians build an emergency kit for themselves and their families, as major storms could impact access to necessary services. The utility provider recommends that everyone have the following in their kits: Radio Flashlights Batteries Phone charger Power banks Car charger Non-perishable food Disposable dinnerware and utensils Medications and prescriptions Personal hygiene supplies Baby supplies Pet food Trash bags Toilet paper Soap Detergent Also, FPL recommends everyone to collect their important documents and place them inside waterproof containers, such as insurance policies, health cards, birth certificates, Social Security cards, phone number lists, medication lists and a copy of their FPL and other utility bills. Prepare your home Before the storm comes, FPL said people should store outside objects inside, fasten doors and windows, cover valuables and furniture with plastic, and move away from windows. Floridians should also turn off and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment, including pool equipment. If your roof or windows leak, FPL said water in the walls and ceiling may come into contact with electrical wiring, so people should immediately turn off any circuit breakers, disconnect all electrical appliances and turn off all wall switches. Additionally, FPL said to never stand in water while operating and unplugging any electrical device. FPL said people should also set their refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings ahead of time to keep food fresh longer in the event of a power outage. The utility provider also said people should never attempt to trim any vegetation growing on or near power lines. For more information on tree trimming policies, visit Additionally, FPL said everyone should look up and note the location of power lines before beginning work on a ladder, and stay at least 10 feet away from them. Stay safe and informed If anyone is using a portable generator, FPL recommends that people read and follow all the manufacturer's instructions before operating. Also, be sure to set it up outside your home, and connect appliances directly to it and do not wire the generator to your breaker or fuse box to prevent power surges and cause injuries. Additionally, FPL said everyone should stay far away from and do not touch downed power lines or flooded and debris-laden areas that may be hiding downed power lines. If you find any, call 911 and 1 (800) 4-OUTAGE (468-8243) to report them. To stay updated on any power outages, bookmark download the FPL app and save 1 (800) 4-OUTAGE in your phone to report and check restoration statuses. FPL added that people should also follow their local news outlets and @insideFPL for updates on storm conditions and heed all warnings. For more tips, visit
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Live: Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches to announce best businesses and businesspeople
The best businesses and businesspeople in Palm Beach County will be honored on Friday, May 23 as the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches hosts the 2025 Business Awards at the Kravis Center. Awards will be given in categories such as the best overall business, best young professional, best hotel and tourism Organization, best non-profit, best health and human services organization and best small businessperson as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award. The Palm Beach Post, in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, will air the show live. To watch the livestream, watch video above or please go to or the Palm Beach Post's YouTube channel, or on Facebook. Here are the finalists in each category (content provided by the Chamber of Commerce): Florida Power & Light CompanyAs America's largest electric utility, Florida Power & Light Company serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to more than 6 million accounts, or approximately 12 million people. FPL's core business revolves around generating reliable and efficient electricity through advanced technology and robust infrastructure. FPL is dedicated to delivering outstanding customer service and maintaining a resilient power grid. Beyond its business operations, FPL is deeply committed to giving back to the communities it serves across Florida through various initiatives that support economic development, education, disaster recovery efforts and more. FPL is committed to ensuring the company is not only powering homes and businesses but also making a positive impact on the lives of the people in the communities it serves. McLaughlin & Stern LLP McLaughlin & Stern LLP is one of New York's oldest and most respected law firms. They offer comprehensive legal services in corporate law, litigation, estate planning, real estate, intellectual property, healthcare, and more. Their Florida office represents a unique extension of that legacy, focused on community impact, personal advocacy, and cutting-edge public interest provide individualized legal counsel with the full backing of a national firm. Their attorneys are nationally recognized for their work in personal injury, medical malpractice, civil rights, mental health, and substance abuse law. Whether representing a family facing a tragedy, a nonprofit seeking guidance, or a client navigating recovery, they approach each case with expertise, empathy, and deep commitment to justice. More: A look at the 2025 high school seniors who won Pathfinder scholarship plus 2nd and 3rd place More: Dwyer Awards: Top teachers, counselor lauded for commitment, excellence in education Tanger Outlets Located on Interstate 95 and Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard, Tanger Outlets Palm Beach serves millions of residents and generates more than 8.2 million visitors each year, marking itself as a staple to the tourist impact of the city. Tanger Outlets Palm Beach brings Tanger's best-in-class operating platform to one of South Florida's most popular destinations and to the Palm Beach County community. Palm Beach County's transformation: How wealth migration impacts our area More: Top Palm Beach County professionals, business people on the move for the week of May 11 Travis Conway Travis Conway, Executive Director of the Edna W. Runner Education Center, exemplifies dedication to educational equity through his transformative leadership and personal journey from program participant to leader. With a master's degree in Organizational Leadership and training in Diversity and Inclusion, Conway has expanded the Center's offerings to include trade, music, STEAM, and literacy programs, implemented initiatives like UFLI and mental health services, and secured $1.5M in funding. His data-driven, compassionate approach has improved student outcomes, achieved 100% parent satisfaction, and built county-wide partnerships to support underserved communities. Rooted in equity, integrity, and inclusion, Travis is committed to empowering Palm Beach County's youth and families. Kirby Davis Kirby Davis has been an active member of the Palm Beach County community for nearly a decade, building meaningful connections and growing as a young professional leader. Davis is a graduate of the 2025 Leadership Focus Program and a proud participant in Nonprofits First's Advancing Leaders initiative, where she found inspiration among peers. In 2024, Kirby joined NAMI Palm Beach County as Director of Development, where her dedication and impact earned her a nomination for the 'Rising Star' Award by the Women's Chamber of Commerce. Passionate about mental health advocacy, Kirby is committed to sharing the stories of individuals living with mental health conditions and ensuring continued access to NAMI PBC's free programs and resources. Kirby lives in Boynton Beach with her three huskies—Oliver, Zara, and Sami—and enjoys running with local run clubs in her free time. Natalia Sangio Natalia Sangio is a dynamic and fast-rising leader who, by age 22, became the youngest Operations Manager at one of GL Homes' largest communities, managing millions in revenue and full-scale operations with a focus on quality and efficiency. Promoted five times in just 4.5 years, she exemplifies integrity, high standards, and a dedication to empowering others. While working full time, she earned her degree magna cum laude from Florida Atlantic University, grounding her leadership in transparency, hands-on support, and continuous improvement. Bilingual and deeply passionate about making an impact, Natalia uses her journey to inspire and uplift those around her, breaking barriers and fostering growth within her team and community. Congrats Class of 2025! See photos from high school graduations across Palm Beach County More: Top Palm Beach County professionals, business people on the move for the week of May 18 Brightline Brightline is America's first modern, eco-friendly, privately-owned intercity passenger rail system in a century. The high-speed rail system seamlessly connects travelers to top destinations and major events between Orlando and South Florida with stations in Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando. The company offers a hospitality-centric experience designed to reinvent train travel at a comparable price to driving or flying. Brightline is recognized as one of TIME100's Most Influential Companies, one of the World's 50 Most Innovative by Fast Company and one of the fastest-growing private companies in the Southeast by Inc. The company focuses on city pairs that are too close to fly and too long to drive. The Kravis Center Founded in 1983, the Kravis Center is a premier performing arts center with a growing national and international reputation. The Center is an economic catalyst and magnet for cultural tourists and the local community seeking artistic excellence. In 2023-2024, the Kravis Center welcomed 500,000 people on its campus for a wide range of activities, including activities in its concert halls and for education and cultural programs. The Kravis Center's mission is to enhance the quality of life in Palm Beach County by presenting a diverse schedule of national and international artists and companies of the highest quality; offering comprehensive arts education programs; providing a Palm Beach County home for local and regional arts organizations in which to showcase their work, and providing economic catalyst and community leadership in West Palm Beach, supporting efforts to increase travel and tourism to Palm Beach County. Wellington International At Wellington International, their vision is clear: To keep Wellington International the premier horse sports destination in the world for generations to come. Nestled in the heart of Wellington, Florida—globally recognized as the premier horse sports destination in the world—Wellington International is home to the prestigious Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) Annual Series and serves as the organizer of the Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF). Their commitment to excellence ensures that athletes, horses, and fans alike experience the very best in equestrian sport year after year. More: Top Palm Beach County professionals, business people on the move for the week of March 30 aZul – Fashion, Art & Design Inc. aZul - Fashion, Art & Design Inc. is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that is dedicated to enriching the lives of adults with developmental disabilities (such as autism and Down syndrome) — whom they proudly call Creatives — and their caregivers through a variety of programs that provide engagement in the arts. Through dynamic programs like our ActiveArt field trips, ArtAbilities technique classes, and their comprehensive FashionAble design courses, they empower our Creatives to uncover their hidden potential. aZul also brings introductory fashion workshops into local day centers that serve adults with unique needs, where their one-of-a-kind designs are showcased in an inspiring fashion show. Adults with disabilities are often marginalized and lack opportunities for personal growth and achievement. Their programs bridge a gap in resources, using art and design as pathways to artistic accomplishment, dignity, and financial independence, and help to dismantle public misconceptions about persons with disabilities and create a more inclusive community. Digital Vibez Inc Digital Vibez® is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Palm Beach County that empowers youth and families through innovative programs promoting health, creativity, and self-expression. What began over a decade ago as a small initiative has grown into a nationally recognized organization with signature programs like Wellness Workshops, Literacy Through Lyrics, and the KidsFit Jamathon — the nation's largest kids' fitness concert. With a mission to foster healthier habits and personal growth, Digital Vibez has expanded its reach through partnerships with groups like the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office and United Way. Operating on a $1.2 million budget funded by donations and grants, the organization now serves thousands annually, remaining deeply committed to inspiring the next generation through engaging, impactful experiences. Friends of MacArthur Beach State Park Founded in 1990, Friends of MacArthur Beach State Park (Friends) is a 501(C)(3) non-profit corporation. n 2001, Friends made a dedicated effort to support environmental education (EE), launching the education program, free to all PBC students, from first through 12th grade. Serving 4,000+ students annually, they focus on experiential, hands-on learning. They are teaching the current and next generation the definition of what it means to be a good steward through their actions. Being at the Park, attending a class or having a positive experience here gives the public more knowledge about various subjects of conservation. From being able to do a beach cleanup, to recycling, all of their small actions matter. Every student who attends an EE program learns Leave No Trace ethics, learning how to be a good steward, and is empowered to be able to make decisions for the future. Their nature center and theatre are built to educate and inform anyone who wants to learn how they can make a difference. Friends work to make this planet a little bit better and a little more sustainable while preserving this amazing piece of land and having people connect to nature. More: Top Palm Beach County professionals, business people on the move for the week of May 4 The Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches The Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches is a visionary nonprofit organization devoted to transforming the lives of blind and visually impaired individuals of all ages. Through a powerful blend of personalized support, advanced assistive technology, and compassionate guidance, the Lighthouse empowers individuals to live with confidence, independence, and dignity. Its holistic services range from early childhood intervention to senior support, ensuring no one is left behind, regardless of age or stage in life. With a deep-rooted belief in empowerment and inclusion, The Lighthouse is not only enhancing lives—it's reshaping perceptions of what is possible for those with visual impairments. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) The Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) is a not-for-profit research institute focused on unlocking the mysteries of the brain. As the only Max Planck Institute in North America, MPFI brings together world-class scientists from around the globe to explore how neural circuits give rise to thought, behavior, memory, and emotion. Through cutting-edge imaging technology, high-risk, high-reward research, and global collaboration, MPFI advances our fundamental understanding of the brain, laying the foundation for future breakthroughs in health and medicine. The Palm Beach County Food Bank The Palm Beach County Food Bank started out in a small Lantana warehouse with one truck and no loading docks and quickly grew to meet the increased need for food. In 2019, a capital campaign launched, and funds were raised so the Food Bank could move into its current home in Lake Worth Beach, doubling its space and adding seven loading docks. The move took place during the pandemic, during which the Food Bank's doors remained open to serve the community and meet an unprecedented need for food. In 2021, in partnership with Palm Beach County, United Way, federal, state, local and individual funders, the Food Bank began the build-out of a new, 24,000 square-foot community kitchen, to further increase the supply of nutritious, supplemental food. More: Top Palm Beach County professionals, business people on the move for the week of April 20 Darren Arithoppah The ShopTropicals journey started in Itacare, Brazil, a Bahian beach town in Brazil's Cocoa Coast. Arithoppah, the founder, spent some time in between jobs surfing in Itacare at Engenhoca Beach, which can only be accessed by hiking 30 minutes through an untouched rainforest. He gravitated towards Florida's subtropical climate and found himself in the tropical plants business. Since then, his mission has been to re-create that experience and to help invite the energy of the jungle into our everyday lives. ShopTropicals services high-end residential and commercial properties that are looking for a lush plantscape experience. Dr. Serge W. D'Haiti, CPA, Ph.D. Dr. Serge W. D'Haiti, CPA, Ph. D., was born in Pahokee, and is a long-time West Palm Beach, resident. He graduated from Palm Beach Lakes Community High School. He attained his BBA from Florida Atlantic University and his master's degree for Accountancy at Nova Southeastern University. He completed his doctoral studies at Capella University in the School of Business, Technology, and Healthcare Administration, specializing in Accounting. He is a Certified Public Accountant licensed to practice in Florida. He serves the Broward and Palm Beach County community under through Serge W. D'Haiti, CPA PLLC, offering public accounting services and mortgage loan origination. Serge served in the Student Government Association at Palm Beach Community College and Florida Atlantic University. He is a member Phi Beta Sigma, Inc. and Florida Free and Accepted Mason. He has volunteered for the Internal Revenue Service's VITA program through the United Way of Palm Beach County, mentored students with Take Stock in Children of Palm Beach County, and tutored athletes at Florida Atlantic University's Oxley Center and Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections. Protecting citizens through the Department of Financial Services, he has worked with the Florida Department of Revenue on child support, business tax matters, and the Healthcare District of Palm Beach County. D'Haiti currently serves as a Trustee of the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, a member of the 2023 Class of Leadership West Palm Beach, was appointed by West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James to the Water Advisory Board of the city of West Palm Beach, was appointed by Mack Bernard to the Palm Beach County Planning Commission Board and serves as President of Lakeside Green Homeowners Association. D'Haiti found a way to serve and improve his community with his skills and talents. Cory Lyon Cory Lyon is a seasoned Financial Advisor at TFG Financial Advisors with over eight years of experience, holding both Series 63 and Series 65 licenses. He specializes in custom portfolio design and personalized asset management for individuals and businesses, using TFG's holistic approach to align clients' financial strategies with their present needs and long-term goals. Prior to joining TFG, he worked at a boutique investment firm in South Florida. Cory is also deeply engaged in the community, serving on the Board of Extraordinary Charities and supporting organizations like Habitat for Humanity, the Historical Society, and various local chambers of commerce. A frequent speaker and published contributor on investment strategies, Cory's expertise has been featured in the Palm Beach Daily News and Florida Weekly. Under his tenure, TFG Financial Advisors has earned the Palm Beach Post BEST Award for Investment Firm from 2021 to 2024. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches 2025 Business Awards announced
