Liane Morejon MIAMI-DADE COUNTY – Miami-Dade prosecutors announced another arrest Friday in an ongoing investigation into one of Florida’s largest homeowners associations Leer en Español served as a “business and accounting consultant” to the Hammocks HOA board from Oct Authorities allege he raked in $644,000 in vendor payments over those 47 months Cue testified in bankruptcy court “that the Hammocks HOA had no reserve funds and needed to take a $375,000 short-term loan in order to maintain normal operating functions,” prosecutors said Former full-time employees of the HOA “provided information leading to the discovery that several board members had relatives who owned fictional companies whose alleged purpose was to funnel monies from the HOA to friends and relatives under the guise of vendor payments,” three of which had Cue’s Worldwide Business Solution Corporation as a registered agent A witness told prosecutors that former HOA President Marglli Gallego directed former board member Monica Ghilardi ― both also charged in the case ― to “provide a hidden salary to Ghilardi” by creating a fictional firm called Albri Consulting Authorities said that the firm had the witness listed as the firm’s manager — without the witness’s permission He “later confronted Cue about the creation of Albri Consulting LLC because (he) was worried about his personal tax liability and Cue told him directly ‘not to worry about it,’” a news release states Cue now has eight felony charges to worry about: prosecutors said they include first-degree counts of racketeering money laundering and organized scheme to defraud charges which could each land him in prison for up to three decades “No homeowner should have to worry about how their HOA is handling the association’s funds,” State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle said in her office’s news release “Our investigation of the thefts at the Hammocks HOA have shed a bright light on a crime that may be occurring throughout our state Those who feel that an HOA’s funds are there for the taking have made a grievous error Today’s arrest should make it blatantly clear.” “anybody who lived in the Hammocks was touched by this scheme to defraud.” Current Vice President Idalmen Ardisson said “it’s a confirmation of everything that we thought.” “The message is: don’t mess with the Hammocks,” Ardisson said “Corruption may pay in the beginning but in the end you’re going to get caught.” Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved Chris Gothner joined the Local 10 News team in 2022 as a Digital Journalist Liane Morejon is an Emmy-winning reporter who joined the Local 10 News family in January 2010 Liane has a unique perspective on covering news in her own backyard TV Listings Email Newsletters RSS Feeds Closed Captioning / Audio Description Contact Us Careers at WPLG Terms of Use Privacy Policy Public File FCC Applications EEO Report Do Not Sell My Info 1.0 Host Exhibit Copyright © 2025 Local10.com is published by WPLG INC., a Berkshire Hathaway company. We are currently beginning a new round of testing The results of our testing will be coming out this summer a hammock can make your day that much more relaxing quick-drying nylon hammock is small enough to take anywhere but durable enough to last for years ultralight option makes a great starter hammock Made from stretch nylon material and reinforced with triple stitching at the seams the ENO SingleNest Hammock has a stable yet silky feel that our testers identified as the most comfortable option in our lineup Its attached compression sack works flawlessly smooshing the hammock down to the size of a softball when closed and acting as a pouch for a phone or a book when the hammock is open The SingleNest also comes with strong wire gate carabiners and a nautical-grade line to hang the hammock allowing it to safely and securely support up to 400 pounds Like with nearly all of the models we tested you’ll need to buy hanging straps separately It weighs 12 ounces and measures 9.5 feet long by 4.5 feet wide so it’s a bit more limited in terms of who can use it which repels water better than the traditional nylon to understand the biggest misconceptions about hammocks As for me, I’ve written several Wirecutter outdoors guides so far, my favorite of which was all about telescopes I also managed the Outdoors Gear Cooperative at my college And before that I was the kid in high school who petitioned his parents to ditch his bed and instead sleep full time in a hammock While more sensible heads prevailed and I kept my bed in its rightful place I never let go of my love for the simplicity of swinging in a hammock—to me if feels like being rocked in a cradle or gently floating out in the ocean I have gone on to use hammocks endlessly in my travels across South America I’ve also suffered from chronic lower back pain for most of my adult life due to an accident that occurred many years ago so I’ve turned to hammocks time and again for an important reason: They relieve the pressure on my back which is often made worse by sitting in a normal chair so I was able to test out the hammocks with the slightly taller user in mind For this guide, we decided to focus on single, packable camping hammocks for people who want the best of both worlds in terms of comfort and portability. These hammocks are primarily meant for lounging, not sleeping, although you can easily catch some shut-eye in a packable hammock in good weather. If you do plan to sleep in any of our picks, see our notes in the Hammock extras section about what else you'll need to bring along Why focus on camping hammocks, specifically? Seth Haber, founder of Trek Light Gear, argues in a company blog post that if your traditional image of a hammock is thick rope construction and two wooden spreader bars, you’ve been brainwashed Haber said thick rope hammocks are more prone to flipping over and in reality they’re less comfortable and less practical than the packable models we’ve reviewed here are traditionally made from nylon or polyester They’re much more akin to the traditional style of hammock that millions of people throughout Central and South America sleep in every night You can definitely set up these compact hammocks in your backyard but we like that they can easily be packed up and transported to your favorite destination We chose to review only single camping hammocks because our experts told us that most of these models can actually fit two or more people (our testing proved that in most cases making them a better choice for day hikers and beachgoers double hammocks might be worth a look if you’re planning to frequently sleep in your hammock overnight or if you plan to sleep in the hammock with someone else “The extra width [of the double hammock] is what allows your body to get flat and overcome the C-shaped curve of the hammock,” Haber said The buck for this guide doesn’t stop at adults though: When we set up our hammocks in a park for testing They piled in and refused to stop swinging—and all of the hammocks in our testing pool proved their mettle in this first durability challenge or hoping for a makeshift swing for your kids we decided that the best camping hammocks needed to be comfortable Bonus points were given for stylishness and ease of set up we did not find any hammock models that included high-quality suspension straps I ended up with 10 models to test for versatility I removed each hammock from its package and examined the stitching and materials Did the stitched seams feel raised and harsh or were they smoothly woven into the hammock’s design I didn’t know much about hammock design when I started this guide but I had each of the 10 models up and ready to go in less than two minutes without any significant problems Each hammock in our testing pool can be easily pulled out of a stuff sack allowing it to go from packed to unfolded in a matter of seconds I slung the hammock straps around two trees depending on the model) from the hammock to the suspension strap and adjusted the height to get it fairly taut and ready for use it will need to withstand the elements—so I started my durability tests by laying out the hammocks and leaving them to sit in direct Southern California sunlight for a week to see if they would fade or discolor This also helped me judge how the different hammock materials handled getting soaked and I was happy with how well most of the hammocks beaded water rather than allowing it to penetrate the material and drench the fabric I crowdsourced valuable opinions…gathering input about which hammocks felt the most comfortable and secure for many different body types I know how hard it can be to follow best practices for packing a hammock—after a long backpacking trip I’m not very likely to lay the hammock out to dry before packing it up again So to test how the hammocks might deal with this all-too-common issue I packed damp hammocks in their bags and let them sit for a week before unpacking them and giving them a good whiff I also took the hammocks to Forest Cove Park in Agoura Hills where I got feedback from all kinds of random passersby The kids at the park took fondly to swinging in the hammocks many of them reminiscing about childhood memories of family picnics with hammocks gathering input about which hammocks felt the most comfortable and secure for many different body types adult men) piled into each single hammock to ensure that they could withstand some extra weight While some hammocks definitely felt more comfortable and secure than others with two adults I’m happy to report that there were no hammock failures or ground falls during our testing This size gives some welcome extra legroom for those of us who are 6-plus feet tall while still curving around enough to be form-fitting for shorter people Made of 70-denier high-tenacity nylon taffeta and weighing 1 pound this robust hammock is also rated to support up to 400 pounds safely which was more than many of the other hammocks we tested When we put two adult men in the ENO hammock together this weight limit proved to be true—we swung safely and it was by far the most comfortable option for two people Compared with most other hammocks we tested the SingleNest felt especially comfortable and breathable on hot summer days we were able to lay in the hammock in just a bathing suit without the hammock feeling abrasive on the skin or the nylon material getting too sticky with our sweat The SingleNest also packs down easily because of a multipurpose stuff sack that goes above and beyond the SingleNest stuff sack comes with compression straps that shrink the hammock to nearly softball size (4 inches by 5 inches) hanging attached to the middle of the hammock and acting as a great pouch to store snacks Putting something with a little weight in the stuff sack even allows you to fold the sack over the hammock for cocoon-style protection from the sun or bugs The SingleNest also proved to be exceedingly durable during testing The nylon material performed especially well on our water tests The SingleNest is triple-stitched at the seams for reinforcement the seams were not very noticeable or abrasive on the skin One thing to remember is that you will need to buy suspension straps separately for this hammock (this was the case with all the hammocks we tested) To attach the hammock to suspension straps the ENO SingleNest offers small aluminum wire gate carabiners at the end of a short nautical-grade cord to make for easy and secure setup options Compared with the open-ended S-hook attachments on some of the other models we tested these carabiners snap completely shut and hook firmly on the hanging straps giving you an extra layer of security when swinging in your hammock And when compared with the stainless steel carabiners of some other models the SingleNest aluminum carabiners promoted smoother action meaning they were less prone to getting jammed The icing on the cake: The SingleNest comes in nearly a dozen color schemes giving you many color combinations by which to express your personality While stylishness is not essential to a hammock’s function we were surprised by how many people noticed this hammock’s fun colors while trying it out the SingleNest is neither the cheapest nor the most expensive lightweight nylon hammock we tested but the way it handles the core details of comfort It’s also worth noting that compared with cotton material the ENO’s nylon might tear slightly more easily lightweight option for newbies who are looking for an affordable hammock to try out occasionally this hammock also stretches less than the other nylon-based models (which means it’s about half as strong) polyester is super water resistant which meant that even after leaving this hammock outside for three weeks in Portland it showed little evidence of being weather worn With S-hook attachments and a relatively thin-feeling material this budget option definitely feels less strong than our top pick and less durable than our runner-up—but for its weight and price tag the Ultralight Starter Hammock from Grand Trunk is a nice place from which to launch a new hammock obsession I quickly found that most hammocks don’t come with high-quality hammock straps While you can certainly fashion your own hammock hanging straps out of spare rope or cord for a fraction of the price hanging your hammock with nicer suspension straps is a safer and more durable option I also took a look at some of the most popular hammock straps on the market I tested each set of straps with all of the different hammocks I had working to understand how much weight they could support and how durable they felt Most hammock straps work with any hammock—although our Sea to Summit pick requires that you use the company’s proprietary straps There are several designs of hammock straps on the market: daisy chain–style suspension straps and thinner cord-style straps with knots tied every few inches I recommend gravitating toward the daisy chain style—I found them to be the most durable and versatile option of the two because they extend longer distances and offer exponentially more preset options to clip into you can make micro-adjustments to the hanging height of the hammock leading to the most comfortable hanging position possible but their higher price tags seem unjustified Due to hammocks being suspended in the air you’re also likely to lose some extra heat while lounging—so if you’re purchasing a hammock as a primary sleeping space you may also want to add insulating layers to keep yourself warm We didn’t include these extras in this guide but hammock experts say that carrying a pad and some extra insulation can make sleeping more pleasant as all of these extra pieces can add up in weight and can actually make your hammock system heavier than a comparable ground setup Good hammocks should be easy to set up and take down you should be able to go from a fully packed hammock and strap set to a fully ready lounger in less than two minutes The hardest part of the setup process is finding two trees or fixtures that are both the proper distance apart from one another and can also support your weight in the hammock Just plug in your weight and the distance between your attachment points and the guide will calculate how high to set your suspension points your hammock will be exposed to the elements while in use Whether someone accidentally drags their muddy shoes onto your hammock or spills their morning coffee before they’ve fully woken up you may have to wash your hammock every once in a while to keep it looking and feeling fresh simply remove the carabiners or attachment hooks add a small amount of detergent to a washing machine and wash your hammock by itself using cool water on a delicate wash cycle you’ll want to make sure it’s dry before storing it in its stuff sack for extended periods of time to which you’re supposed to attach your hammock with knots This feels less stable and also means extended setup times the hammock itself didn’t stand up to the comfort of our top picks due to its more abrasive raised stitching this model’s carabiners are of poorer quality which makes the hammock itself less durable and less safe the materials on this hammock felt more abrasive on the skin compared with the silkier feelings of our winners But during our multiple outings with the Single+ and its unbelievably lightweight Hummingbird Tree Straps we repeatedly heard from our testers that this model was less comfortable and the attachment system more concerning than its competitors due to its minimalist connection to the tree straps but it tanked during our water and spillage-based tests Instead of repelling and beading away even the slightest amount of water this model absorbed the liquids and stayed soaked for longer than any other models This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan Gary Lawton, The Mountain Shop Seth Haber, Trek Light Gear If you’re a creator who needs a reliable data storage system the Samsung T7 Shield is an excellent choice Investing in some high-quality basics can get kids excited about camping out—and help you avoid a mid-trip detour to the nearest big-box store but many of its products have become longtime Wirecutter favorites Keeping toys and nursery items organized is a constant challenge for many parents Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you can make quick and confident buying decisions Whether it’s finding great products or discovering helpful advice we’ll help you get it right (the first time) A pelican rests on a piling in the marsh on the Georgetown County southern section of Garden City Beach on March 23 The Marshwalk is lined with restaurants and bars in Murrells Inlet on March 23 Noah Watson casts a net from the Altman Hill dock in Pawleys Island on March 23 Atalaya was the winter home of sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington and Archer Milton Huntington The Morrish-influenced castle was built in the early 1930s It is located at Huntington Beach State Park in Georgetown County on March 23 The Kaminski House Museum (right) overlooks the Sampit River in Georgetown as the old Post Office faces Front Street on March 23 The home was built in 1769 and the old Post office was built in 1906 USA Today/10 Best posed this question: “Where can you find South Carolina’s Best Beach?” The answers came back to Georgetown County and South Carolina’s Hammock Coast one of the oldest seaside resorts in America and a gem among gems on the Hammock Coast as two more of the Hammock Coast’s pristine beaches finished in the Top 5: Litchfield Beach at No Award-winning has become synonymous with the communities of Georgetown County under its tourism moniker of South Carolina’s Hammock Coast well before – and heroically during – the Revolutionary War water has shaped South Carolina’s Hammock Coast — be it rivers and marshes or Winyah Bay and the Atlantic Ocean It’s important historically and culturally it’s what defines Georgetown County as one of America’s premier vacation spots Fishermen and boaters reel in stories along the rivers And countless others soak up the sun on pristine beaches in Pawleys Island southern Garden City and the DeBordieu Colony near the historic city of Georgetown Our unspoiled and uncrowded spots bring visitors throughout the year And the Hammock Coast’s beaches are perfect for taking away the cares of everyday life In addition to the USA Today best-of list from 2024 Southern Living notes that some of South Carolina’s best beaches are found here on the Hammock Coast in March 2023: “South Carolina’s Hammock Coast is known for its rich history Garden City is divided between Horry and Georgetown counties but it’s on the southern tip of Garden City (that’s the Georgetown County side!) where the inlet meets the Atlantic Ocean surfing and more are just some of the ways that water defines this classic beach destination Restaurants and vacation rental homes overlook the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Murrells Inlet on the other Spectacular sunsets and sunrises are just part of Mother Nature’s charms for starting and ending your day here Blackbeard’s choice for stealthy seclusion Undisputed “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” Home to a world-renowned Those are just a few of the ways you can describe Murrells Inlet one of the Hammock Coast’s most popular destinations and foodies converge on the half-mile-long MarshWalk for Southern-inspired delicacies from its member restaurants Huntington Beach State Park is a USA Today/10 Best nominee and Southern Living’s choice for “Best State Park in South Carolina” visitors can relax in more than 180 campsites discover some of the best birding opportunities on the East Coast And just across Ocean Highway from the state park is the 9,000-acre Brookgreen Gardens a national historic landmark showcasing the world’s largest outdoor collection of American sculpture and home to the Lowcountry Zoo recently a new home for endangered Red Wolves but you don’t have to take our word for how great it is Litchfield Beach is perfectly situated between Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island Beachgoers can enjoy a southern stroll from Huntington Beach at the state park and seamlessly step onto Litchfield Beach and continue on past vacation homes and wonderfully appointed condos that peak over the seashore at Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort where inland rice planters first chose the barrier island as their summer retreat in the 1700s and began a beach sojourn that vacationers from around the world continue today The town of Pawleys Island basks in its reputation as being “arrogantly shabby,” and its famously non-commercial life of no neon two historic inns — the Sea View Inn and the Pelican Inn a string of well-appointed vacation homes or condos at the Pawleys Pier Village Across the two causeways from the historic island visitors will discover mainland Pawleys and its locally owned restaurants and shops; Downtown Pawleys’ collection of boutiques and eateries; and the famous Hammock Shops Village and its iconic Original Hammock Shop where rope hammocks are still made by hand is how we lovingly became known as the “Hammock Coast,” which Georgetown County officially adopted as the county’s tourism moniker nearly 15 years ago Further south on the Hammock Coast is the historic city of Georgetown named by USA Today as “America’s Best Coastal Small Town.” Visitors love Front Street where shops and eateries meet the Sampit River Georgetown boasts 66 properties on the National Historic Register; five museums including the Kaminski House; eclectic stores; must-try restaurants; and a variety of history tours Historic American figures such as George Washington and Harriett Tubman are intertwined in the city’s rich history offer a glimpse into the past for a well-rounded lesson in American history visitors will find the small town of Andrews It’s near the town where the Black River begins its winding sojourn to the sea in Georgetown County The river is a favorite of locals and visitors for boating It’s soon to be the backdrop to South Carolina’s newest state park The Hammock Coast is one of the biggest vacation spots in South Carolina Georgetown County ranks sixth out of the 46 counties in The Palmetto State in tourism attributing hundreds of millions of dollars in economic benefits for the local economy is considered the perfect vacation for generations of families from all over the United States They come for a chance to wake up to a beach sunrise; to enjoy a round at one of a dozen publicly accessible award-winning golf courses; indulge at our locally owned Southern-fused restaurants; or simply relax under sorbet-colored evening skies — maybe in a hammock The Hammock Coast — it’s a place like no other Stevens is a former award-winning journalist and former executive editor of the Georgetown Times He now works as the director of tourism development for the Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: An eighth arrest has been made in a years-long probe of alleged theft and racketeering in one of the largest homeowners associations in the state of Florida The Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office on Friday announced charges against the former accountant of the Hammocks Homeowners Association in connection to the ongoing investigation Prosecutors say several HOA board members and their relatives were funneling association funds to themselves and friends disguised as vendor payments through fictional companies.  Jesus Cue was a business and accounting consultant to the Hammocks HOA board between October 2018 and November 2022 prosecutors say Cue received $644,000 in vendor payments.   three of the shell companies involved listed Cue’s company as their registered agent and received almost $500,000 in vendor payments from the HOA.  READ MORE: 'Check My Contract!' State launches fraud prevention portal for victims of Hurricane Milton “No homeowner should have to worry about how their HOA is handling the association’s funds,” said State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle in a statement the husband of former HOA board member Monica Ghilardi was falsely listed as a "manager" in state filings for a fictional vendor called Albri Consulting his wife allegedly directed Cue to create a hidden salary for hers under Albri Consulting without Chauca's permission “Our investigation of the thefts at the Hammocks HOA have shed a bright light on a crime that may be occurring throughout our state," said Fernandez Rundle "Those who feel that an HOA’s funds are there for the taking have made a grievous error The Hammocks HOA is the largest homeowners association in the county overseeing 40 communities and over 6,500 units in West Kendall.  Cue is the 8th person arrested in connection to the alleged theft money laundering and organized scheme to defraud over $50,000 In 2022, several current and former board members were arrested on charges of stealing more than $2 million of residents' money a leading community association management firm has been chosen as the new management partner for The Hammocks Homeowners Association one of South Florida’s largest and most well-established communities The partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing financial stability and resident engagement for the 18,000-plus residents who call The Hammocks home With nearly 30,000 units under management across Florida Affinity brings a results-driven approach to community association management a thriving community spanning 6,559 units across one master association sought a partner that could provide accountability Affinity’s proven track record made them the clear choice our focus isn’t on being the biggest — it’s on being the best fit for the communities we serve,” said Rafael Aquino “Our team’s goal is to bring the HOA’s vision to life by providing the structure and operational expertise needed to make that vision a reality We believe HOA boards should be free to lead and innovate while we handle the complexities ensuring that every decision drives long-term success for residents.” A key element of Affinity’s approach is its philosophy Deliver.” This ensures HOA boards receive the structure and execution necessary to achieve their strategic goals Affinity’s financial reporting commitment guarantees timely with an accountability measure that credits the association if deadlines are missed This level of transparency and dedication gives The Hammocks HOA confidence in a successful partnership “Our board needed a management partner who could provide financial transparency Affinity stood out with their accountability and results-driven approach,” said Donald Kearns “The team at Affinity has been a major force in restoring The Hammocks bringing the structure and expertise needed to stabilize and strengthen our community.” “Affinity’s approach ensures that we are not just maintaining our community Their commitment to accountability and strategic leadership aligns with our mission to enhance the quality of life for our residents and build a sustainable future for The Hammocks.” The Hammocks HOA is poised for a new era of growth setting a benchmark for excellence in association management For more information about Affinity Management Services, visit www.ManagedByAffinity.com or contact Michael Manrique at MPM@ManagedByAffinity.com look no further than Miami Community Newspapers This Miami online group of newspapers covers a variety of topics about the local community and beyond Miami’s Community Newspapers offers daily news podcasts and other multimedia content to keep readers informed With topics ranging from local news to community events Miami’s Community Newspapers is the ideal source for staying up to date with the latest news and happenings in the area This family-owned media company publishes more than a dozen neighborhood publications as well as distributing them in print throughout Miami Dade County from Aventura Each online publication and print editions provide comprehensive coverage of local news and local initiatives within its respective community Additionally, the newspaper has exclusive Miami community podcasts, providing listeners with an in-depth look into Miami’s culture. Whether you’re looking for local Miami news, or podcasts, Miami’s Community Newspapers has you covered. For more information, be sure to check out: https://communitynewspapers.com If you have any questions, feel free to email Michael@communitynewspapers.com or Grant@communitynewspapers.com Promote your business to the localized audience you want to reach with Miami's Community Newspapers. Call 305.669.7355 or view our Media Kit. Ryan Mackey MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle held a press conference Thursday to announce the latest arrest in the ongoing investigation into the Hammocks Community Association The ongoing probe has exposed years of alleged financial mismanagement and corruption that left residents frustrated and demanding accountability authorities arrested 58-year-old Ivan Diez who is accused of playing a significant role in the fraud Diez allegedly set up a shell company and billed the HOA for services that were never performed According to Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle Diez was part of a larger scheme to siphon funds from the association which oversees tens of thousands of residents in the Hammocks community “He billed for cleaning up after a hurricane,” Fernandez Rundle said Diez’s arrest is the latest development in a long-running investigation into the HOA which has been marred by allegations of financial wrongdoing The probe began in earnest after years of complaints from homeowners who accused the association’s leadership of mismanagement and stealing funds meant to maintain the community’s properties The investigation first made headlines in November 2022 when five HOA officials were charged with a variety of financial crimes Authorities allege that these individuals embezzled millions of dollars from the association funneling money into personal accounts and fake companies while neglecting the basic upkeep of the Hammocks community Authorities also booked Kevin Leonardo Alzate, 32, the cousin of former homeowners association president Marglli Gallego into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center last December He’s facing charges of perjury by contradictory statements fabricating physical evidence and resisting an officer without violence Gallego, along with Monica Ghilardi, Jose Antonio Gonzalez, Myriam Rodgers and Yoleidis Lopez, were previously arrested in the case They’re accused of stealing more than $1 million and were past or present board members at the time of their arrests the arrest of its former president for theft Alzate was an “integral part” of a scheme to create “several years of legal delays” that were “designed to avoid producing the required financial documents necessary to facilitate the criminal investigation despite judicial orders to do so,” a news release from the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office states Prosecutors accuse Alzate of providing notarized affidavits demanding money from law enforcement which he then used to justify not cooperating with legal requests from law enforcement; the HOA supported the expenses of producing the documents by submitting sworn Thursday’s announcement also included updates on two of the original five defendants: Monica Ghilardi and Myriam Rodgers Both have pleaded guilty to charges related to the theft and are now cooperating with investigators is currently in custody awaiting sentencing Rodgers has been sentenced to probation in exchange for her cooperation in helping to unravel the details of the fraud and Rodgers is on probation as part of their plea deals Fernandez Rundle confirmed during the news conference The Hammocks HOA case has become a high-profile example of the risks of unchecked power within homeowners’ associations densely populated communities like the Hammocks With nearly 6,500 homes and more than 40,000 residents the HOA wields significant influence over the neighborhood’s daily operations and finances By creating a fake company and billing the HOA for non-existent services he allegedly took advantage of the association’s broken financial controls His arrest marks another step toward unraveling what prosecutors have described as an intricate web of fraud the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office has promised more arrests indicating that the full extent of the fraud may not yet be known Watch the press conference in the video below Local 10 Digital Journalist Chris Gothner contributed to this story Janine Stanwood joined Local 10 News in February 2004 as an assignment editor Before moving to South Florida from her Washington home Janine was the senior legislative correspondent for a United States senator on Capitol Hill Ryan Mackey is a Digital Journalist at WPLG Copyright © 2025 Local10.com is published by WPLG INC. Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInGAINESVILLE (WCJB) - Detectives are working to determine the cause of death after finding human remains at an apartment complex in Southwest Gainesville Gainesville Police Department officers say the remains were found near The Hammocks by Butler apartment complex on Windmeadows Boulevard Officials say the body has been decomposing for an extended time TRENDING: Gainesville officers stop drivers for using their phones while driving in a school zone This developing story will be updated as more information is learned Click here to subscribe to our newsletter Monument Park replaces the former Hammock Park the .35 acres on the corner of Broad and Church streets in downtown Monroe will soon be the new Monument Park – and it will be home to the historic Monroe sign that once stood on top of the Wayne Street water tank The sign is well known to residents who lived in or traveled through the city prior to the February 1993 downburst that caused significant damage to downtown Monroe many discussions have taken place on how or where to replace the sign with no real options to place it back on the existing water tank In May last year, the city decided to allocate the funds to construct a replica of the sign and it has now been decided that Monument Park will be home to that replica the Monument Park is now well on its way to becoming a space with benches and will serve as an outdoor venue for Museum events in the future which will hold a place of pride at the rear entrance to the park helps highlight some of the Monroe nostalgia that the Monroe Museum fosters.  featured MONROE spelled out vertically in three-foot-tall neon letters and reportedly provided an air of “big city importance to our otherwise modest little town.” It will continue to do that for Monroe This sign project will be an addition to the center of an already-completed placemaking initiative at Hammock Park which has served as a communal gathering space outside the Monroe Museum since opening in 2018. The brick base has already been constructed and is awaiting the installation of the Lighted Monroe sign to complete the replica nearly identical to the original in its details,  down to the three-foot-tall measurement of each letter will be updated with energy-efficient LED lighting It will enhance the historic storytelling component of the adjacent museum while also increasing the nighttime usability of the existing park space.  The sign will sit on top of a 10-foot historic brick base that will match the historic brick used throughout the new town green and in various other areas of downtown Monroe. Officials expect to have it in place in time for the Memories in Monroe Car Show on March 15 visitors are reminded that this park is primarily a daylight park You must be logged in to post a comment – A homeless Miami-Dade man is facing a felony charge after authorities said he sexually accosted a 10-year-old girl sitting in the passenger seat of her mother’s car stopped at a red light Wednesday evening Miami-Dade police arrested Ronald Jean-Baptiste on a charge of lewd and lascivious conduct on a child under 16 Leer en español at Southwest 104th Street and 147th Avenue in The Hammocks Police said while her mother was stopped at the light the man went up to the passenger’s side window where the young girl was sitting hit the window about five times and told the girl “Let me see your p----” while making “hand gestures toward his chest.” Authorities said he made “similar statements” referring to the girl’s “private parts” about eight more times before her the girl’s mother was able to drive off and call police Police said they found Jean-Baptiste and arrested him Jean-Baptiste was being held in the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center with a bond listed as “to be set.” Jail records show that he also has three bench warrants for battery and trespassing Andrea Torres – A suspect in the Hammocks Homeowners Association fraud case appeared in court before Miami-Dade County Circuit Judge Mindy S Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle announced Thursday the arrest of Ivan Dario Diez for being behind one of the many shell companies used to defraud the HOA of posing as a service provider to bill the Hammocks HOA for undone work Diez is related to HOA members who investigators said approved the payments Fernandez Rundle reported that about $6 million in misappropriated HOA funds have been recovered Diez is the seventh suspect arrested in the fraud case first estimated at over $2 million The HOA collects fees from nearly 6,500 single-family houses and townhouses between Southwest 120 and 88 Streets and 147 and 162 Avenues Fernandez Rundle said Diez received about $172,000 from the HOA from June 15 The six other suspects are two former HOA presidents a former vice president; Jose Antonio Gonzalez Fernandez Rundle announced that two of the seven had accepted plea deals and agreed to cooperate with investigators Ghilardi pleaded guilty to grand theft and perjury charges and she agreed to serve a year and a day in prison and she agreed to serve five years of probation and pay $1,700 in restitution “We are going to continue this investigation,” Fernandez Rundle said dedicated commitment to those homeowners to hold those accountable for putting them through so much angst and stealing from them.” Diez is facing five felony charges: Grand theft and she ordered him to surrender her passport Diez will have to wait in jail for a hearing to prove that the funds used to pay his bond are not related to crimes Miami-Dade County Circuit Judge Lody Jean is presiding over the case Detectives asked anyone with information about this or other cases to call Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477 More Stories Like This In Our Email Newsletter The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013 She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award Please support local news—East Cobb News—during Small Business Week! Kemp won’t challenge Ossoff in U.S. Senate race East Cobb Weather Update: A mild forecast stretches into May Check the latest East Cobb real estate sales Editor’s Note: The savory tastes of the Taste of East Cobb • Call/text 24/7 for breaking and emergency news tips: 404-219-4278 A free digest with top East Cobb News headlines calendar listings and more is delivered every Sunday From camping to backyard reading marathons This was the most supportive hammock we tested and we felt perfectly aligned in our lounging position A strap for the carrying case would be useful This packs down to the size of a small water bottle this is perfectly stable for two people in a range of positions We wish the straps were longer for more versatile pitching self-contained system and you don’t have to detach anything to pack it away The zippers felt a bit flimsy compared to the rest of the unit The material is quite breathable and we could feel the breeze to help relieve the heat We’d recommend this hammock strictly for at-home or pool use The package comes with extra components to ensure you can set it up year after year The large size and grounded setup means this isn’t a very portable model This is a quality hammock — perfect for anyone just getting started The best hammock material depends on your needs as most of my hammock usage is for camping or backpacking and doesn't stretch out after long-term use A cotton hammock can be soft and cozy for beach or backyard use though Both materials should be allowed to dry completely before packing and storage Hammock tension should be somewhere between tight and loose You don’t want to flop into it and hit the ground with a serious sag but you don’t want it so tight that you’re bouncing out and the sidewalls aren’t activated The ideal hammock pitch allows a soft flex in the bottom of the hammock with moderate tension along the sides Whether or not it’s ok to sleep in a hammock for extended periods of time depends on your posture my back doesn’t appreciate too many nights in a row in a hammock but I have a bad lower back and terrible posture and can even help with spinal alignment thanks to the ergonomic curve in a correctly set-up hammock The best length for a double hammock is at least 9.5 feet long but some people prefer at least a 10-foot long hammock for more space to stretch and to accommodate taller users a single hammock should be around 5 feet or wider and we’ve found the most comfortable double hammocks to be at least 6 feet wide Paige is a former contributing writer for Better Homes & Gardens with over six years of professional writing and editing experience She has contributed to various publications To learn more about how we tested hammocks, check out our testing process below This hammock doesn’t require any additional tools or other items for assembly It sets up easily in minutes and was one of the most durable options we tested The spreader bars flatten out the hammock more while in use which can lead to some discomfort for some users when lying down Keep an extra pillow handy for more support be it in your backyard or on a trip around the world this hammock tends to furl inward when in use The spacious cotton fabric is durable yet breathable and the hammock features stylish crochet details on both sides and the hammock is only available in one color this unique hammock doubles as a piece of art in your yard or on your patio While it’s extremely comfortable when sitting Although it was lightweight and budget-friendly this hammock felt extremely supportive and durable in our tests so it can take some trial and error to ensure your hammock is the proper height from the ground for each use Looking to kick back in style on your next backpacking or camping trip We’ve spent hundreds of nights hanging in the best camping hammocks to bring you the essential options for your next trip Whether you’re slinging up a comfortable seat on a day trip or needing a luxe thru-hiking shelter We’ve tested and reviewed lots of options and have chosen the camping hammocks that we think are the best choices in 2025 either — we set off on multi-day backpacking trips in our rigs and tested each on their comfort There’s bound to be one (or three) that will fit your backcountry and backyard needs Editor’s Note: We updated our Camping Hammocks guide on November 11 to add a new Price & Value section and more in-depth feedback from additional testing Gathered-end hammocks have long been the go-to design for camping hammocks. However, the bridge-style Warbonnet Ridgerunner ($130-175) earns its title with the most comfortable night’s sleep of any hammock we tested Its spreader bars weigh all of 12 ounces — and They allowed the hammock to lay flatter and The Ridgerunner’s Dream-Tex fabric is less synthetic-feeling than the industry-standard nylon fabrics The hammock integrates two massive side pockets and an overhead pocket for easy stay-in-bed gear access Warbonnet also offers four different options for suspension systems from nearly idiot-proof webbing to ultralight Amsteel loops Its comfort and versatility don’t come without cost While the Ridgerunner does much to offset the weight the tips of the spreader bars can also hit your tarp keeping part of a hammock in a double-ended compression sack or snakeskin during setup solves this — but this is harder to do with bridge hammocks the Rigerunner neither requires nor includes a ridgeline The upside: No smacking your head when sitting up The downside: Less clearance for the hammock’s mosquito net without one by far the biggest wildcard is the recommended 250-pound maximum for users This isn’t a safety limit — simply a point at which the shoulder area becomes snug double-layered options that extend the weather range of your setup the Ridgerunner should be a top pick for car campers a traditional gathered-end option like the Hennessy Expedition Zip is likely a better option Onewind has established itself as a dark horse for budget hammock camping equipment. Its 11’ Aerie Double Camping Hammock ($70) is a perfect example of why After using one for over two years everywhere from sweltering wetlands to blizzarding forests it has held its own with hammocks over twice its price the Aerie should provide a flat diagonal lay for just about anyone Its robust suspension and 70D nylon fabric are rated to 500 pounds — and regularly withstood paws and claws as well Its UHMWPE ridgeline is widely adjustable and comes with an organizer and prusik loops for storage the plethora of accessories makes it an excellent base for a well-rounded Its webbing suspension doesn’t require carabiners but is far easier to set up with a pair (not included) Its buckles are difficult to loosen if overtightened The bottom entry bug net is fantastically mosquito-proof its budget quilts and accessories make for a relatively heavy setup the 11′ Aerie is a great starter platform for those who want to get into hammock camping without breaking the bank The Klymit Traverse might be cheaper by $5 but you miss out on the integrated bug netting Even those who go off the hammock deep end will still find plenty of room to grow and improve their Aerie setup for years to come Perfect for tossing between any two solid points you can find, the Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest ($75) hammock has been a staple for many years and the DoubleNest is the pinnacle of the brand’s chill-oriented gathered-end hammock evolution Sitting at a middle-of-the-road 9.5 feet in length the DoubleNest bumps the width out to 76 inches wide to accommodate a hammock co-pilot to your next hang We’ve found that by adjusting the hanging angle we can make this a comfortable affair for both parties Don’t expect enough space to co-sleep ENO used a common design in construction — a three-panel layout that cradles the occupants — and setting it up couldn’t be easier and attach the included carabiners in order to hit the ideal 30-degree hanging angle Pro tip: hold your index finger and thumb at a right angle to one another and use the imagined line between the ends to nail that 30 degrees The company recently updated the hardware used in the DoubleNest including a hammock-specific carabiner that incorporates a groove that limits cross-loading We loved seeing these small pieces of kit optimized for hammock use You’ll need to bring your own straps to the party as the DoubleNest is sold as just the hammock but is harder to achieve the typical 30-degree strap angle and use with a mosquito net The DoubleNest is also only “double” hammock in width Sleeping with two occupants will make for long nights — and the extra fabric can be a bit much for a solo hang There are plenty of other casual hangers on the market such as the Grand Trunk TrunkTech and Klymit Traverse but what elevates the DoubleNest is the accessory support This hammock is our constant daypack companion The Hennesy Expedition Zip ($170) is a legend in the hammock backpacking space and earns that reputation which facilitates the diagonal laying position favored for a flat lay The design also sports extra fabric — with tie-outs — for pulling a diagonal stretch in the hammock that’s perfect for night after night of sleep It’s an out-of-the-box ready hammock for warm-weather camping Its fixed ridgeline ensures a consistent and easy-to-set-up hang and quickly anchors directly to the hammock suspension The Expedition’s net allows for easy zippered access and plenty of clearance — no mesh rubbing against your face And the standard 1.5-inch tree straps offer ample protection for trees The Expedition’s modularity does have some caveats Those not knot-savvy will likely find its cordage suspension slower and more involved Its fixed ridgeline also trades adjustability for ease of setup It also is 12 ounces heavier than even the bridge-style Warbonnet Ridgerunner the Expedition Zip is a warm-weather powerhouse Those looking for a more turn-key setup would be better suited by the Onewind Aerie or even the Kammok Mantis which is a bit more approachable to get put together With modular components galore for bushcraft-oriented shelters and quilts this Hennessy is adaptable to any backpacking trip if you’re willing to learn the quirks The Warbonnet Blackbird XLC ($200) is a fantastic compromise between modular customizability and user-friendliness Warbonnet offers more in-house additions to customize your kit than a Hennessy but a more straightforward (and less overwhelming) array of options than a Dutchware Chameleon Other highlights include a fully removable bug net as well as Warbonnnet’s unique storage shelf — a flap of fabric that hangs from the side of the hammock and provides two square feet of storage space We loved the ability to keep a headlamp or phone at our fingertips for those middle-of-the-night trips courtesy of integrated netting tie-outs and a fabric spacer the ability to keep the bug net further away from our faces The Blackbird XLC is available in four different suspension options from simple webbing to an ultralight knot-based system Warbonnet also offers three single- or double-layer constructions to accommodate both larger hammock hangers and pads that its Dream-Tex fabric is far from your run-of-the-mill ripstop parachute material without being overwhelming — all of which work well and are user-friendly sometimes certain options and add-ons won’t be available for some time Custom orders take some time to be cooked up And while many of the XLC’s features are reversibly asymmetric If you’re looking for a fantastically-designed and reasonably customizable hammock now and the potential to fine-tune your dream hang later The Dutchware Chameleon does take the overall versatility crown in our review but isn’t quite as fine-tuned off the shelf as the Warbonnet One of the advantages of a camping hammock is the ability to be pitched in a wider variety of terrain than a tent Though swinging free in the air keeps you away from rough and uneven terrain it also means you lose some of the insulating properties of sleeping on the ground will keep most warm down to around 40 degrees In practice, we found these custom pads to be much more ideal than the regular sleeping pads we’ve tried to press into hammock service in the past Where these camping pads folded at odd angles and caused creases that were awkward to sleep on Hennessy’s foam pad is cut to perfectly fit Hennessy’s asymmetric design Included in the 4Season Expedition Zip setup is the integrated mosquito net as well as a Hex rainfly made from 70-denier polyester ripstop We found the fly to be generous enough in size to protect the ends of the hammock from everything short of heavy driving rain and able to be pitched to avoid drafts from beneath weight is the obvious trade-off for protection from the elements 3 ounces all told (more than any other dedicated backpacking hammock we tested) You’ll also have to give some thought to set up as there are many lines to tension correctly Those who regularly camp in below-freezing temperatures will still likely need an underquilt for a comfortable night’s sleep the dual-layered construction and add-ons make the 4Season Expedition Zip hammock more versatile than something like the Warbonnet Ridgerunner which can be tough to insulate in truly cold temps When you aren’t sure what to expect on your next outing, the Dutchware Chameleon Hammock ($142) is just as adaptable as its namesake the most readily customizable hammock on the market Bugs can ruin an otherwise great hammock camping experience so being able to zip into a bug net greatly increases the number of nights you can enjoy off the ground The Chameleon boasts a series of different bug nets and a top cover; a semi-solid cover that creates a microclimate and pushes the hammock to cold weather extremes allows you the ability to lie in any direction in the Chameleon and still zip on your bug net or top cover and not being tied down to any specific way to use the hammock The Chameleon is available with two different suspension styles and the latter will need a little practice to master sans bug netting or cover — the exposed zipper on the edge of the hammock needed to be avoided upon entry and exit A small price to pay for overall versatility While this hammock is just as user-tuneable as the Warbonnet Blackbird XLC we did find that hammock to be a bit more friendly with dozens upon dozens of potential options the Chameleon can be a bit overwhelming for newer hammock campers But practiced hands and those who like to tinker with their setup are sure to love it the Chameleon hammock can handle anything thrown at it Read Review: Kammok Mantis Review: All-In-One Hammock System for Campers the regular Mantis offers a lot of features in a well-thought-out comprehensive package for those who need a do-it-all camp hammock All of Kammock’s original hardware for the Mantis shows serious attention to detail high-strength polyethylene hanging cords with a slick “continuous loop” sliding adjustment Other nice features include a hammock body made out of a durable ripstop diamond-weave 40-denier nylon It also features a removable bug net crafted from a special mesh that allows for better stargazing And the 15-denier nylon rainfly is built with Hypalon-reinforced guy-out points for extra strength in scary storms we did find that some had a little trouble with the rigging on the Mantis Because the hammock uses a fixed-length ridgeline (a cord that adjusts the angle of your dangle) some testers on the taller side found they couldn’t dial in their lay It’s lighter but more expensive than budget Onewind and ENO bundles It’s less customizable but cheaper than cottage brands like Warbonnet and Dutchware it’s second to only the Hennessy Expedition with a comparable tarp it features Bluesign-approved materials and a more approachable suspension Consider this a jack of all trades but a master of none you’d be hard-pressed to find another hammock set-up that is as easy to jump right into hammock camping as the Mantis Camping hammocks tend to lean further into the cottage industry and so do our recommendations for top performers the Mantis makes it easy to enjoy from the get-go Read Review: Silky-Soft Tree Sleeper: Grand Trunk TrunkTech Hammock Review You’d be forgiven for mistaking the TrunkTech for the ENO DoubleNest Indeed they are similar — to the point that only the wider availability and higher denier nylon of the DoubleNest put it higher the TrunkTech has a number of things that make it a top lounge contender The Grand Trunk TrunkTech Hammock ($60) is actually a few dollars cheaper Its proprietary 40-denier Micro Grid ripstop nylon also boasts an impressive 500-pound max capacity The TrunkTech doesn’t come with any suspension or accessories but can easily be hung with any daisy chain straps it’s extremely supple and supremely comfortable to lie in Its silky softness,” our expert says “Seriously: it’s proven durable enough after weeks of use for those looking for a hammock to string up around the backyard fire pit or toss in a stand on their apartment balcony The lightest offering from ENO, the Sub6 Ultralight Hammock ($70) tips the scales at a mere 5.8 ounces and is small enough to fit into some pants pockets If you want a backup hammock to toss in your car or bring along on weight-conscious backpacking trips Made of a gossamer 30-denier ripstop nylon you can practically read newsprint through this hammock it boasts a respectable 300-pound maximum capacity We were initially nervous to plop down into it but now after a few solid years of use we’re confident in the durability the Sub6 brings to the table Other smart measures keep the weight down on this hammock, including moving away from carabiners in the suspension to a toggle system. This ideally pairs with the brand’s Helios Hammock Straps but the system will still work with daisy chains as well The 48″ width is also the most narrow in our testing (if you don’t count the bridge-style Warbonnet Ridgerunner) The stellar Lawson Blue Ridge Camping hammock ($229 hammock only) is chock full of features but a fair bit heftier and bulkier than the traditional gathered-end hammocks making it not quite as convenient for taking on extended trips one of the best things about this hammock is it’s set up in a lay-flat configuration and where that hammock excels in the backcountry Beyond the comfort of sleeping in a lay-flat configuration kudos go to this hammock tent for features like the spacious loft of the upper mesh via shock-corded arch poles at either end (which is a fine no-see-um mesh) and the ability to pitch this hammock on the ground like a regular tent it feels more like you’re sleeping in a tight bivy sack but it does suffer from a more complicated design The spreader bars are attached and supported with a bunch of cordage that converges for the hanging point which introduces a lot of potential fail points and provides all of the same flat-lay comfort the materials are overall solid and durable which puts the spend north of what you’ll put down for the Lawson If a quick and easy bridge hammock is what you’re after Want more information about this hammock’s performance? Check out our head-to-head testing of the Blue Ridge vs Draumr The simple bridge design takes cues from tent construction by utilizing eco-consciously anodized DAC aluminum shock-corded poles as spreader bars that slip into fabric sleeves And the suspended bug mesh canopy has a wide double-zipper opening that spans the hammock’s 7-foot length While the Skylite’s toggle ends were built with the ENO Helios Hammock Straps in mind it will also accommodate any daisy chain style suspension system by clipping the loop the toggle is attached to The flat-bottomed shape provides comfort in a variety of sleeping positions The whole setup is less than a Ridgerunner with a net added but it’s that ability to tweak the Warbonnet to your preference that earns it higher marks than the ENO Want the hammock style but don’t need the integrated bugnet? The SkyLoft ($130) is for you Though the most affordable in the roundup, the Klymit Traverse ($65) is a well-made hammock constructed from a high-quality 75-denier polyester that’s durable And while looking exactly like every other parachute/diagonal hammock on the market the Traverse is made from a single panel instead of the usual three used in most designs This gives you a relaxing sleeping/chilling position that puts your body more easily on a flatter plane avoiding the dreaded banana bend other hammocks can give you Set up is a breeze using the included daisy chain straps and carabiners which is the easiest suspension style we found for casual hanging we remarked at how soft the fabric is — a far cry from the technical sheen of parachute materials that hammocks like the ENO DoubleNest make use of it all packed away into the integrated stuff sack It isn’t the fanciest hammock on the block and at 9 feet long it is on the smaller side for larger hammockers which were our only quibbles with this budget sling not to suggest spending the extra $5 to get into the Onewind Aerie 11’ a larger hammock set with an integrated bug net If you don’t plan on ever camping in your hammock Perfect for chucking in a trunk or daypack the Traverse is the perfect hammock for impromptu hanging sessions The GearJunkie team is chock full of avid hammock campers we put our heads together and shared our passionate opinions on hammock camping we’ve included hammocks that can be used for car camping and casual hangouts but we still made sure to pay extra attention to the nitty gritty: How durable and comfortable the hammocks are The amount of stretch they have or adjustability they boast How easy and flexible they are to set up — not only the first time but also the twentieth Our hammock field testing takes us far and wide and we’ve used these setups on everything from quick weekend overnights to extended bikepacking trips We’ve also strung up these hammocks as simple camp chairs during day hikes and used them for park hangouts for an afternoon We paid close mind to the complexity of setup and we always subject each hammock to an initial ‘no-instructions’ go of getting them up we also looked closely at comfort while laying in them and cycled through testers of different sizes and builds to get feedback from a diverse user group including ease of set up when trees aren’t perfect the protection provided from any included tarps and how effective any integrated storage is We also broke out the scales for this roundup and weighed each setup in-house to ensure that manufacturers’ claims were accurate we measured lengths and widths and compared hammock fabrics by looking at feel And when the rain didn’t provide itself when testing hammock shelters out we rolled out the garden hose and made our own in order to test weather protection Contributor Ian Graber-Stiehl has been hammock camping through picturesque mountainsides he’s stubbornly stuck with hammocks even in ill-advised conditions: in the middle of the deserts Ian spends hours tinkering and optimizing hammock setups to save a few seconds and grams — that he spends on yet more gear he carried and hung each hammock tested in a variety of different ways and weather conditions to see how they perform in a wide range of conditions Camping hammocks are versatile pieces of gear that can reliably replace a tent and provide the joy of daytime lounging hammocks have become increasingly popular with outdoor recreationists rediscovering the beauty of tent-free camping To those experienced outdoor sleepers who swear by the tent, hammock camping may at first seem like a novelty activity reserved for backyard fun. However, thanks to innovative product design and the development of handy accessories, hammocks have become a completely legitimate and viable alternative to tents. And, given the setup, can even rival some ultralight tents for weight and packed size consider exactly how and where you’ll be using it Will you frequently use the hammock in cold or wet weather Are the areas where you plan to use your hammock buzzing with mosquitos Hone in on which features you can and can’t live without While the original hammocks were all of the gathered-end variety other permutations have arisen that provide a different style of lay Finding which style is right for you will come down to how you like to relax Traditional gathered-end hammocks bring the fabric together at two points on opposite ends of the hammock creating a pea-pod or banana shape that allows you to lay sideways within the fabric You’ll always have a bit of a sag lying in this position which works well for some but may not for others While gathered-end hammocks taper towards bunched ends where the fabric is cinched together bridge hammocks are closer to the picturesque beach hammocks most people picture This flattens out hammocks for a side sleeper-approved lay at the expense of weight and a tippier feel modern camping hammocks have come a long way toward overcoming these disadvantages.  Relatively short aluminum and carbon fiber spreader bars are not only lightweight themselves They don’t require the length and width of gathered-end hammocks to achieve a flat lay Especially with double-layered hammocks and underquilts their more compact designs can go a long way towards offsetting both extra ounces and the tippy feel and their bars can minimize clearance beneath a tarp.  Fabric is often denoted by its denier rating which is a measure of the thickness of the fibers used to make it A higher denier will mean a more durable fabric In our testing, we found that the most common denier for a hammock was around 75-denier, with the range spanning from the ultralight 30-denier ripstop of the Eagles Nest Outfitters Sub6, to the burly 240-denier of the Tentsile Trillium 3-Person hammock.  Fabrics also will be referred to by their weights something like a 1.9-ounce ripstop nylon will be on the heavier end of fabrics while a 1.0-ounce is on the ultralight side of the scale Nylon is by far the most popular fabric for camping hammock construction harkening back to the Vietnam-era Jungle hammock produced for the U.S many hammocks will be made with something similar to 1.1-ounce nylon The term ripstop refers to the calendared weave that can be sewn into a fabric as it is produced This raised pattern resists allowing a tear to continue throughout a fabric once it’s begun Some fabrics use a different denier yarn for the ripstop grid versus the base fabric creating a strong but still lightweight fabric Many manufacturers will work with textile mills to produce their own nylon fabrics to their specifications, allowing them to fine-tune the weight, strength, and feel of the fabric. Notable in this category are efforts like TrunkTech used in the Grand Trunk TrunkTech hammock which is an ultra-strong fabric that manages to maintain its low weight and bulk Weight is an especially important factor for those who plan to carry a hammock from campsite to campsite Though backpacking hammocks aren’t the focus of this list we included both lightweight hammocks and heavier options it’s important to consider that the total weight of a hammock alone isn’t all that telling you’ll also need at least a suspension system This means ropes or straps that attach to the anchor points of your hammock A lightweight hammock and a heavy suspension system can easily cancel each other out This same principle applies to rainflies and other accessories you may need Remember that lightweight materials are often thinner and more fragile than other options for those looking to shave grams off their total weight it’s possible to put together a hammocking setup that’s significantly lighter than almost any one-person tent Setting up a hammock is a simple process that basically entails attaching your suspension system between two trees or other fixed points and hanging both ends of your hammock from the system some hammocks are quicker and easier to set up than others we recommend that you practice setting up your hammock at a park or in your backyard a few times before going hammock camping While many hammocks are set up according to a standard hammock design with two symmetrical anchor points and a cocoon-like shape other hammocks on the market have slightly different designs that can add some tricky subtlety to the setup process Asymmetrical hammocks require the user to lay somewhat diagonally inside the hammock to create a flatter sleeping surface setup can become convoluted and somewhat arduous we recommend purchasing one that’s built into the hammock’s construction This will save you a step and shorten your overall setup time Often accompanying entry-level or casual hammocks daisy chain straps borrow from the world of climbing and are about as easy as it gets when you want to sling up for a quick snooze these straps sport multiple sewn pockets that are used to shift the distance between the hammock and tree They don’t allow as much fine-tuning of the tension as other systems but when we’re hammocking for fun or don’t mind the extra weight and bulk daisy chain straps are what we reach for first which add an extra 12 inches to each strap Using the same tech as the paper finger traps we all played with as kids whoopie slings are adjustable and lightweight suspension systems that are often made from a polyethylene rope called Amsteel these are the strap style of choice for serious hammock campers Whoopie slings will need to connect to a thick tree strap in order to protect the trees you’re hanging from if they aren’t integrated into them. The Whoopie Hook Complete Suspension ($36) from Dutchware is the whole shebang and our favorite of the bunch.  buckle suspensions are popular among hammock campers for their adjustability and packability These straps wrap the tree like a daisy chain but utilize a cinch buckle on the hammock ends to hold tension Since hammocks are only suspended at two ends that leaves plenty of room for things to get out of whack when you’re hanging In order to get an optimal hanging angle — which is roughly 30 degrees from your hammock strap to the ground — many will use a piece of cordage to connect the ends of the hammock Ridgelines are also an excellent place to hang things you might need during the night, such as a lantern, or you can use a ridgeline organizer for added versatility Outside of the fairest weather and in areas without mosquitos hammocks are not an entire campsite unto themselves They need overhead protection from the rain and potentially even more to weatherize your sleep system we’ve rounded up a simple shortlist of recommended gear to extend the range and forecast of your camping experience Hammock tarps are waterproof nylon covers that protect your hammock from the elements — most notably They function exactly like the rainflies that are found on tents and are made from the same DWR-treated nylon Tarps are typically measured by the length of their intended setup Adding a few feet of length over the overall length of your hammock is a good way to ensure proper coverage While there are a number of options for fabrics Silnylon is durable and abrasion-resistant Sleeping pads offer an insulation alternative Given their lower weight-to-warmth ratio than underquilts and a tendency to slide around they typically work best in double-layered hammocks and can even make for a flatter lay.   Finally, there are a few dedicated hammock sleeping pad systems. The Hennessy 4Season Expedition Zip notably favors sandwiching a foam pad between your hammock and a water-resistant undercover the system can hang warm and comfortably in 40-degree temps and it comes down to the ridgeline used to suspend it Most tarps come with a split ridgeline — a line attached to either end of the tarp Split ridgelines keep extra cordage to a minimum and are easy to re-tension if a tarp stretches split ridgelines are more difficult to center perfectly over a hammock They offer an incredibly easy setup: Whether with a tensioning device or a know and slide the loops to tension the tarp.  Continuous ridgelines make setup and centering a breeze They allow the backbone of a tarp to stay taut while putting less stress directly on the tarp a continuous ridgeline means more rope to wind back up and more weight to carry Hanging a tarp beneath a continuous ridgeline especially with stretchy cordage and long spans can also reduce the height and clearance of a tarp Insulative underquilts keep you from losing body heat through your exposed underside while lying in a hammock an underquilt is a blanket that hangs under your hammock and conforms to the shape of your body The underquilt prevents heat from seeping out through your underside Some high-end cold-weather underquilts are rated all the way down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit They come in different lengths including full-body a full-length underquilt will be the warmest option but for those concerned with the weight of their kit down stuffing offers the greatest warmth-to-weight ratio Synthetic filling offers a budget alternative but with a weight penalty If you’re heading to notoriously buggy regions like the Pacific Northwest or the Colorado alpine bugs aren’t too much of a concern because tents typically come with fully enclosed mesh bodies you’ll likely become dinner for hordes of mosquitoes Because most hammocks are made from thin nylon the denier rating of the material will tell you a lot about the overall durability of the hammock The denier rating describes the thickness of the fibers Ripstop nylon is also a trusty choice for hammock construction treat your hammock like the fragile piece of gear it is If you handle your hammock with gentle care it should last for many years — especially if it’s high-quality Some hammocks are made from material that is treated with a DWR coating Be sure to set up your hammock so that it is as protected from the elements as possible top and under covers can provide extra protection for underquilts and trap more warmth around you a quality rainfly will go the longest way towards improving the weather range of your hang Even a generous tarp can struggle in driving rain and cold winds when hung at the wrong height a hammock really can be as effective as a tent in most scenarios With proper setup and the right accessories and dry — even when it’s pouring rain or dumping snow A perennial favorite of ours are snakeskins Simply suspend your hammock and slide the sleeves back — or leave it wrapped and out of the way while doing camp chores On the extreme end, Dutchware’s Anaconda ($95) can swallow a hammock, underquilt, and top quilt or sleeping bag, all into one package. Hennessy’s SnakeSkins ($18) are wide enough to pack both hammocks and rainflies together For campers who want to keep their packs light Onewind’s 12’ Two-Piece Sleeves ($18) provide a cheap The primary job of a camping hammock is to provide a comfortable and reliable shelter for sleeping or lounging outside a little bonus versatility is always a good thing meaning it can easily be used as a two-person lounging zone or as a nice couch to sit in sideways during restful days in camp While some users may shy away from extra material because it means extra weight it really is a nice luxury to be able to use your hammock for more than just hunkering down at night The price of a hammock is really twofold: The price of the hammock itself and the cost of the rest of the gear you’d need to make it trail-ready we’ve found most of them to fit into four categories.  but their cuts typically skew short and wide — aiming for a flat lay by being a double hammock Budget trail hammocks and budget loungers are often only dollars apart but trail hammocks are geared more toward backpacking use and offer up more functionalities such as bug nets and potentially some integrated storage options These are typically the Hennessy and Kammoks of the hammock world Mid-ranged hammocks are typically a step up in both construction quality and price These hammocks tend to find more options for different fabrics and versions of various hammocks.  pullouts to keep bug netting further away from your face and tie-outs galore to support a diagonal lay.  The extras are often included and are well-engineered hammocks in this price range tend to be supported by a small array of well-designed accessories like tarp systems and shelter add-ons — to improve the hammocks’ capabilities and numerous modular accessories to ensure that Some smaller makers, such as Dream Hammocks, even offer completely custom versions of multiple models. High-end bridge hammocks like the Ridgerunner (starting at $130) and Banyan (starting at $175) still offer a great deal of customizability the most comfortable sleep in the woods this side of a cabin When set up properly for the given conditions hammocks are a safe alternative to tents when camping Make sure you know how to set up your hammock before you go Accessories like bug nets and rainflies help ensure that you’ll be prepared for sleeping outside in a hammock but they both provide adequate and reliable shelter for sleeping outside Personal preference will determine whether you decide to use a hammock or a tent there’s nothing better than a hammock for that sweet sensation of being gently rocked to sleep a hammock is colder than sleeping in a tent as the ground offers a surprising amount of insulation a hammock that’s geared out with proper insulation and shelter can be comfortable and warm — even in subzero temperatures Be sure to find the right sleeping pad or underquilt for maximum warmth four-season tents are still the gold standard A double hammock is made to support two people and is usually rated to safely hold at least 400 pounds but it’s usually pretty uncomfortable to actually sleep together with another person in a hammock The extra material offers additional space to spread out and some sleepers like to wrap the hammock’s material around them like a cocoon but they offer some nice comfort that you may find is worth the weight Sizing a hammock will come down to two dimensions: width and length Width has been fairly standardized into ‘single’ and ‘double’ occupant designations with single hammocks being around 5 feet in width A single hammock will save some weight and bulk over a double hammock while a double will be more useful for hanging out in camp The length of your hammock will play a bigger role for those who are looking to sleep in their hammocks with the range falling between 7 and 11 feet a 9-10-foot-long hammock will suit all of their needs Closely related to the length of your hammock will be the ridgeline length which is a structural cord that runs between the ends of your hammock and suspends the fabric at the correct angle When it comes to tuning in your ridgeline length choose a tree that is healthy and can support your weight These will typically be 6 inches in diameter or greater use a suspension system that can spread out the forces across the bark A wide daisy-chain strap will be sufficient but for more delicate trees you may choose to use a set of tree savers which are straps that better pad and distribute these forces For the DIY types: tree savers can be improvised with strips of cardboard, or by using small sticks in between the strap and the tree. For the rest of us, Sea to Summit offers the Hammock Tree Protectors ($20) Make the most of your home away from home by choosing the best camping tent for your adventure We found the top car camping and family camping tents for every budget and use From packable sleeping pads to ultracomfortable air beds we tested and found the best camping mattresses and sleeping pads to fit every adventure and budget Austin Beck-Doss is a Staff Writer at GearJunkie Austin worked as a rock climbing and wilderness guide Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes Ian Graber-Stiehl has been a science writer for the past 8 years covering issues and topics in  conservation He’s written for over a dozen outlets and all-around Black hiking redneck hipster cultural divide between the REI Co-op and the Cabela’s camp He has a passion for the outdoors and is a self-described “gear obsessive,” always keeping a finger on the pulse that is the outdoor industry He currently calls Illinois and the Midwest home but spends at least 60 days afield annually designed with AD100 talents Roman and Williams and Romanek Design Studio.Photo: Yoshihiro Makino Styling: Colin KingSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links After a long winter, white sand and mai-tais are dancing in our heads. But if a beach vacation isn’t in the cards or catching a breeze can stylishly transport the tropics to your own indoor and outdoor spaces From a hand-crocheted double-size hammock to a lounger-shaped alternative the hammocks of today are a clever nod to island life whether strung between two trees or suspended from the ceiling of your den Made in Nicaragua, this lightweight hammock was made for someone who’s always on the go. It’s handwoven with natural organic cotton and has a weight capacity of 350 pounds, making it an ideal accomplice for all of your adventures—solo or otherwise. The secret to this double hammock is the textilene fabric, which is extra breathable, easy to clean, and quick-drying. We’d opt for the classic-looking striped options, which have us dreaming of summer days on the Amalfi Coast, but there are also botanical and geometric patterns available. Its Brazilian teak frame gives this padded hammock a sculptural look, plus there’s no shortage of cushioning—meaning you’ll be able to spend hours comfortably lounging in the sun. The attached pillow makes it exceptionally comfy, and the weather- and fade-resistant Sunbrella fabric—in black-and-white or sand-and-white stripes—will hold for years of hangouts. Danish home brand Ferm Living is known for style and versatility. Take this hand-braided hammock, which you can place in or outside your home. Buyers will also feel good about the materials, since it’s made from 100% recycled polyethylene terephthalate (a.k.a. PET) derived from post-consumer plastic. You’ll want to lounge about in the patio, garden, or poolside for hours thanks to the cushioning support on this double-layer quilted hammock from Lazy Daze. It’s the ideal backyard fixture to prepare for sun-filled days ahead. We like that this neutral cream colorway will almost be like adding a white couch to your outdoor space, though several stylish striped silhouettes are also available. Creating a stylish oasis indoors or out is easy with this hammock from Anthropologie. Adorned with crocheted edges and festive tassels, this sunny hammock will be the best place to lounge on a lazy afternoon or stargaze on clear summer nights. Thanks to its roomy interior, you can bring along your coziest blanket and a good book to help unwind. Artisans in Nicaragua handcrafted this punchy hammock using a very specific kind of material: ethically sourced, organic cotton yarn, which is meant to be extra soft. The colorful tassels are almost too cute. This is dubbed Yellow Leaf’s Signature for a reason: It’s a portable hammock, eco-friendly, and available in 13 colorways (you can even design your own custom style). Not to mention, Yellow Leaf has perfected its classic triple-weave construction, which utilizes 150,000 ultrasoft and quick-drying cotton loops to offer weightless support that doesn’t stretch or break. What more can you ask for? Extra seating can come from above, like this hanging hammock chair decorated with a tassel fringe. This woven option can be mounted to the ceiling or freestanding in a metal frame depending on your personal preference. Sunbrella fabric is a telltale sign that a hammock is designed with comfort in mind. The durable fabric is soft to the touch yet strong and sturdy to keep you secure, plus UPF-protected, whether you’re hanging between trees or on the patio. – Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement arrested a southwest Miami-Dade man on Monday after they said he made a social media post threatening Gov Leer en español An arrest report states that Valentin Tomas Morales posted on X — the social media platform formerly known as Twitter — “I think im (sic) going to f---ing kill Ron DeSantis.” The Florida Fusion Center identified and reported the post to the FDLE on Monday Investigators didn’t say whether they believed anything specific motivated the threatening post Authorities said they went to Morales’ home in the gated Mahogany Isle neighborhood of The Hammocks and took him into custody on a charge of written threats to kill Morales was being held in the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center on a $5,000 bond Copyright 2025 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved FlaglerLive November 19, 2024 | FlaglerLive | 14 Comments They say the special exception doesn’t apply to their development Monday’s decision hinged on whether the commission would accept the special magistrate’s recommendations–translated into a settlement agreement–or not To go along with the magistrate’s recommendation and the settlement agreement would mean that the county agrees with Hammock Harbour’s claim that its plans are consistent with Flagler County’s land regulations and the strictures of the Scenic A1A corridor “This board is not bound by that special magistrate’s recommendation,” Pennington said I would recommend that we render it back to the planning board to go through the process for a public hearing and a special exception.” Commission Chair Andy Dance noted that there’d never been a development order to start with–nothing for Million to take to a special magistrate the county was all but nullifying the mediation process that had led the matter back before it The commissioners in sum put more stock in the arguments presented by Dennis Bayer the attorney representing the Hammock Community Association an Orlando land use attorney representing some of Hammock Harbour’s neighbors than they did in those of the special magistrate you err on the side of the property owner,” Moylan had said “We have very strong private property rights in Florida you err on the side of the property owner.” Some of the Hammock residents who spoke in opposition to the special magistrate’s recommendation challenged the County Commission on that count: “I’m going to ask each one of you would you like that right next to your house Because I don’t understand how one property owner preempts residential owners when the majority of the structures are residential,” one resident said Dance stressed that the development itself is not in question “I think it was pretty clear from the research that whether it’s a commercial and that’s what the planning board basically came up with–with protections of a special exception.” The special exception “is appropriate within the scenic overlay because we have that historical component to this it lives within the scenic overlay.” “There’s a lot of a lot of people against this and I don’t think it hurts to put it through the special exception process,” Commissioner Greg Hansen said “get it everything aired public.” The 4-1 vote in favor of Pennington’s motion drew a dissent from Dave Sullivan It was Sullivan’s and Commissioner Donald O’Brien’s last votes on the commission as their two terms came to an end November 19, 2024 at 7:34 am November 19, 2024 at 7:47 am November 19, 2024 at 8:48 am It just wouldn’t be a growth & Vision of 2050 approval without no value added for unnecessary litigation Sometimes you have to just say “No” from the beginning to avoid this later that’s probably been in existence from day 1 of the Hammocks existence put your lawyer away and fill out the special exception form already had repeated to the County Commission Monday what he’d said during the May mediation: that he’s a litigator not to appear before county commissions.” ““Special exceptions are not that complicated,” Bayer said his project would have been under construction by now November 19, 2024 at 4:27 pm and not that it matters to the county commission but is Bob Million a Hammock or Flagler County resident why is he making all this effort to destroy our community This will be nothing but an eyesore to the area and open Pandora’s box for future commercial development on the barrier island Go away and build your eyesore somewhere else November 19, 2024 at 6:09 pm November 20, 2024 at 6:37 am The Chinese have an old and wise saying “THE FISH SMELLS (STINKS) FROM THE TOP” Moylan is just a “TOOL” of the counties administration In the end for all of you praying the new commissioners will suddenly and intelligently answer all your prayers you are sadly mistaken The commissioners know full and well that the developers and builders control this count and its economy there’s to much money involved and the immortal words of Sam Cooke you cannot “cherry pick” what goes and comes anymore November 20, 2024 at 8:55 am Hammock Huck you are absolutely right – the Hammock has enough eyesores November 20, 2024 at 12:41 pm November 20, 2024 at 1:49 pm November 20, 2024 at 2:13 pm November 20, 2024 at 3:55 pm November 20, 2024 at 4:52 pm Lets rejoice as county residents witnessed our triad ladies (two just sworn in) county commissioners with LeAnne Pennington leading the charge against the boat storage project demanded by developers now under the excellent scope of star Land Development “Attorney Mr Brent Spain” defending the opposition of the Hammock Harbor neighbors Spain already successfully engaged by us members of Protect Palm Coast since 2021 Finally the residents entitlements will also stand attorney’s Spain and Bayer and those brave Hammock residents willing to invest in legal fees to protect their quality of life To us all as community defending also our rights isn’t worth few hundred to a thousand dollars to spend to preserve the properties worth several hundreds thousands Was for us monies well spent and maybe could be recovered…because why been enduring in PC and County the skewed impositions of their planners They always tell us the vacant land owners have rights and what about the residents land owners rights Why these developers always allowed to supersede our rights Hammock Neighbors as Protect Palm Coast did November 23, 2024 at 6:32 am November 23, 2024 at 1:15 pm Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed. Log in TrendingResidentialSouth FloridaAAt the Hammocks corrupt board members leaned on family to aid in massive fraud a cousin and other relatives of HOA’s criminally charged former leaders have been tied to the scheme AAABy Lidia DinkovaDec 2 Hammocks board President Marglli Gallego allegedly suggested that Monica Ghilardi should get paid for her work as the homeowners association’s treasurer Because Florida law says HOA board members are volunteers prohibited from receiving compensation an HOA employee incorporated Albri Consulting LLC with the state and listed Chauca as its manager The Hammocks board then transferred HOA funds to Albri disguising them as legitimate vendor services payments and allowing for money to eventually be diverted from Albri to Ghilardi Albri received $291,681 from Hammocks coffers Chauca’s role in the gambit was hardly an isolated case at the Hammocks four former board members were arrested in 2022 over misappropriating millions of dollars from the residential community by hiring bogus contractors that did little to no work are cooperating with investigators and received reduced sentences home to the worst alleged fraud scheme in South Florida became the poster child among troubled HOAs and condo associations in the tri-county region where allegations abound of board mismanagement plundering of accounts and bullying of those who speak out the Florida Legislature strengthened the law tailoring the HOA legislation to address exactly the type of wrongdoing alleged at the Hammocks As investigators continue to peel back the layers of what transpired at the Hammocks another facet of the ploy has crystallized: Board members leaned on family to help them execute their plan “Several board members had relatives who owned fictional companies … used to funnel monies from the HOA to relatives under the guise of vendor payments,” an investigator wrote in an October court filing Three Gallego relatives were arrested on charges they aided the alleged fraud At least six other relatives of various board members though none of them have been criminally charged At South Florida HOAs and condo associations embroiled in alleged fraud it’s common for board members’ families to have a connection to the schemes it’s legal to hire a family member’s firm as an association vendor though board members are required to disclose the hiring and relationship Issues come when the family member charges more than the market rate costs for the same job or is hardly completing any work raising into question whether both the board member and their relative are profiteering by plundering HOA coffers “It’s just like the allegations you see in government giving contracts to family members,” said Alessandra Stivelman an attorney for HOAs and condo associations “These people didn’t have to be the brightest individuals to come up with the scheme.”   Whether all of the relatives so far tied to the Hammocks case willingly participated in the alleged fraud and benefited from it is unclear especially those who aren’t criminally charged didn’t even know their names were used on various documents or just signed records that those on the board asked them to sign Chauca said in depositions he never authorized the use of his name for Albri and the entity was “created in his name at Gallego’s request.”  familial ties ran deeper than what’s been revealed signaling more could be exposed or charged A “significant number” of entities that formed right before they started working for the Hammocks were “controlled by friends and relatives of Gallego,” an investigator wrote in a court filing Among HOA employees interviewed by investigators these family and friends were commonly referred to as “los Tios and las Tias,” or Spanish for the uncles and the aunts the phrase extends to someone’s actual uncles and aunts as well as other relatives and also close friends “Gallego invented titles for family members,” said Hammocks homeowner Ana Danton Other “people who were employed here were family members of others on the board.”  and his Excellent Services & Work never held professional licenses as any type of contractor Excellent Services received more than $1 million from the Hammocks It’s the largest amount any of the purported vendors allegedly received from the HOA Investigators’ review of the firm’s bank accounts showed checks were signed by board members and issued from different HOA bank accounts — sometimes on the same day That’s inconsistent with the weekly or monthly payments contractors usually receive Excellent received 70 percent of the Hammocks’ $370,000 maintenance payroll budget in six months Funds in Excellent’s bank accounts went toward airline tickets school uniforms and the political campaign of another vendor’s son Gonzalez bought a south Miami-Dade County home partially with HOA funds SIGN UPExcellent also had ties to three others identified as Gallego relatives by prosecutors: William Gil who originally incorporated the entity; Maria M who temporarily served as its vice president; and Carlos Gil who co-signed Excellent invoices with Gallego and also worked at the HOA office who was arrested in 2022 along with the board members also was another purported vendor to the Hammocks His Aya Service and Repair Corporation received $164,000 from the HOA from 2017 to 2021 Lopez Garcia signed several of the checks issued to Aya he testified that Ghilardi had “full control” of Albri’s bank account “since she was paid a salary by the HOA.”  and Maria Alzate haven’t been charged in the case Lopez Garcia and Ghilardi did not return a request for comment who allegedly signed some of the checks to Excellent pointed out she has “cooperated fully” with prosecutors “from the onset of this case.”  Rodgers is the eldest among the charged board members Her “age and inexperience were taken advantage of,” attorney Jean-Michel D’Escoubet said in a statement adding that she was “made a straw member of the board.”  Gonzalez’s attorney said he is “thoroughly vetting” the state’s evidence “While the outrage of the homeowners is certainly understandable we believe it is misplaced as related to Mr Gonzalez,” Jude Faccidomo said in a statement bought the rights to Deco Enterprises for $3,000 the firm received $171,917 from the HOA for doing little to no work on the property When Diez turned in a series of handwritten invoices in response to subpoenas the records raised questions for investigators Deco charged $4,726 for preparation for and cleanup after a hurricane in August 2022 — a month when there were no named storms It also cited a $10,300 bill for work over three days for Hurricane Ian the following month Investigators noted that even though the invoices were supposed to have been written at various times during Deco’s employment with the Hammocks they appear to have been written in the same type of pen and nearly all come in sequential serial numbers “It’s the neatest contractor’s invoice I have ever seen,” said Stivelman the HOAs and condo associations attorney who reviewed the invoices attached to Diez arrest warrant you can’t understand and it’s a bunch of scribbles or numbers.”  The third Gallego relative charged is her cousin Kevin Leonard Alzate who played a role in the HOA’s dogged fight against investigators’ records subpoenas Alzate said in an affidavit — notarized by a Ghilardi relative — that he is the Hammocks records custodian But in a court hearing last year over the HOA’s refusal to turn over records saying he “guessed” he was the custodian and adding that a board member asked him to sign the affidavit said he “did legitimate work at the Hammocks” and will be absolved Diez “has become an easy target by others who have been offered ridiculously reduced sentences to point the finger at him,” Pallas said “He has been dragged into this case only because of his family ties to the former president of the HOA.”  Even if someone was unaware of the alleged fraud and signed documents or incorporated entities because their family members on the board asked them to submit these invoices,” you would think it would raise some suspicion That’s when law enforcement may find you should have done due diligence and by failing to and blindly following what the president was saying who represents HOAs and condo associations The HOA legislation approved this year criminalized board members’ failure to turn over records and solicitation and acceptance of kickbacks Zifrony is skeptical that beefing up the law would stop wrongdoing State statutes always banned acceptance of kickbacks and the new legislation simply added the clause to the HOA statute And making laws stronger wouldn’t have prevented a scheme like the one alleged at the Hammocks “You had a person who decided to steal money,” he said “Adding an additional statute would not have stopped them.” There’s nothing better after a long surf or hike than posting up between two trees in a hammock Hammocks have been a camping and beachfront staple for years hammocks came in one straightforward design we’ve rounded up our favorite hammocks for hanging Navigate To: Comparison Table | How We Tested | Buyer’s Guide Editor’s Note: We updated this guide in December 2024 with some new picks Jump to Best of the Rest When it comes to hammocks, one of our top priorities is how easy the hammock is to set up. Not only does the ENO TraveNest Hammock come with straps you simply loop the straps around a tree and clip the carabiner onto the strap The straps have multiple attachment points so it’s easy to find the one that works best It’s a single-person hammock that’s comfortable to lounge in which we appreciate when using it during beach days ENO is a member of the 1% For The Planet organization donating 1% of sales to environmental nonprofits and comes with straps we awarded it the best overall hammock title Hennessy’s Expedition hammock will keep you covered through rainstorms patented asymmetrical design that allows you to lie level on the diagonal while supporting your lower back and knees resulting in the comfiest hammock sleep of your life The hammock features a side entrance and a breathable mesh to provide protection from bugs Included with the Expedition is a waterproof ripstop rainfly that can be tilted and complementary polyester webbing straps This shape-shifting hammock also folds into an open-air lounger/chair or can be converted into a tent with your hiking poles Hennessy Expedition Asym Zip Hammock ($170) is designed for maximum comfort for those up to six feet and 250 pounds so if you’re on the taller side it might not be as comfy of an option Although this hammock is a bit on the pricier side it is extremely versatile and comes with all the bells and whistles to keep up with whatever adventure you throw its way Check Price on REI Check Price on Amazon and includes built-in gear loops for attaching carabiners and accessories so you must purchase those separately if you don’t already own them compatible accessories like hammock stands so you can easily tailor the hammock to your needs the Kammock is a solid option for chilling at the beach or in the backcountry Check Price on REI Check Price on Amazon so you don’t have to worry about forgetting them at home The straps were a little funky to figure out at first but once we did they were easy to set up and tear down The Exped Travel Hammock is made from 70-denier ripstop nylon which allows it to be lightweight yet incredibly durable The hammock has an integrated stuff sack for storage but it doubles nicely as a water bottle holder while you’re in the hammock The Exped Travel Hammock comes in a regular and a wide version — we tested the regular and found it to be plenty spacious Check Price on Exped Check Price on Amazon Featuring fun, playful patterns and tropical prints, the Layback Cotton Canvas hammock works well as a backyard fixture or as an addition to a beach-day setup it’s not as portable as some other options so it’s best suited for car camping or hanging at home — but it does come in a convenient backpack-style bag to help make transportation easier the hammock features industrial-grade brass eyelets and braided twill ropes that make it easy to string up the Cotton Canvas hammock is a fun option for close-to-home adventures Check Price on Amazon Made from 70D Ripstop Nylon, the Sea to Summit Pro Single Hammock Set is a lightweight breathable hammock fit for every adventure The hammock features plated steel buckles that are triple bar-tacked to webbing loops to ensure they withstand the test of time The hammock comes with included straps that have a unique interlocking system with the buckles the hooks are a little funky to figure out they’re super easy to set up and make adjustments The hammock packs down small into the built-in compression sack that includes just enough room to hold the hammock and the straps The material is super soft and comfy and can hold up to 400 pounds Check Price on Amazon To create the SuperSub Hammock, ENO took all of the features we know and love from their DoubleNest Hammock to create a hammock that’s half the weight The fabric is strong and durable while simultaneously being breathable and quick-drying It’s not exactly a chair or a hammock, the Chillbo Schwaggins Inflatable Couch falls into its own category of awesome the inflatable couch is an inflatable-style “hammock.” But unlike most inflatables it harnesses the power of the wind to inflate Getting the couch set up can be tricky at first but Chillbo has an instructional video on their website that is super helpful It’s much easier to set up when there actually is wind Thoughtful features include elastic anchor loops (which are super helpful in windy conditions) and large side pockets for stashing essential items the inflatable couch is incredibly durable and easily rolls into a convenient travel bag at the end of the day The couch is super comfy and you can lay in it alone or sit side by side with friends Check Price on Amazon Lightweight and comfortable, the Traverse Double Hammock is a straightforward design that’s perfect for relaxing at the beach or the campground Capable of supporting 400 pounds and weighing in at 29 ounces the Traverse is a great option for two people or one person who enjoys a lot of space The fabric features a subtly cool stone art print and is incredibly soft The Traverse comes with two aluminum carabiners and two and easier on your wallet than some options that don’t come with straps the Traverse features a single-panel design that helps prevent stretching and snagging allowing you to enjoy your hammock for years to come Check Price on Amazon The Yellow Leaf Handwoven Hammock is equal parts compact and comfortable we wouldn’t say it’s a travel hammock but it does pack down into a convenient travel bag making it a good pick for the beach or the campground The woven fabric feels comfortable against the skin and the hammock spreads out impressively wide The hammock comes in fun colors and the fabric is UV-safe we were bummed that the Handwoven Hammock doesn’t include straps it’s an extremely comfortable hammock that looks good at the campground or in your backyard Check Price on Amazon Weighing in at just over a pound, the DoubleNest is lightweight and packs down into a convenient stuff sack. The hammock comes with carabiners that attach with any ENO straps but we wish the straps were included with the hammock (you have to purchase them separately) trip-stitched seam construction that makes it ultra-durable and prevents rips and tears – our tester has not been gentle on her ENO and it’s still going strong years later If you’re looking to go ultra lightweight when backpacking, a hammock can be a great option. The Kammok Mantis Hammock Tent eliminates the need for both a tent and a ground pad Made from 100% recycled 40-denier diamond ripstop fabric the Mantis is durable and can hold up to 500 pounds The hammock has a mesh netting to prevent bugs from getting in as well as a tarp that covers the length of the hammock to keep you dry you can simply roll back the tarp and star gaze The hammock also has built-in pockets so you can easily keep essentials close by while you snooze it’s a great option if you like to camp or backpack Check Price on REI Check Price on Amazon The ENO Dayloft Hammock is by no means a lightweight hammock the Dayloft has aluminum spreader bars that allow you to lie flat on the hammock The hammock doesn’t come with straps or a stand but is compatible with all of ENO’s products The mesh body of the hammock is breathable which our tester greatly appreciated while lounging in hot and humid Hawaii the Dayloft packs down relatively small into a travel bag — the aluminum poles are fully collapsible the Dayloft comes with an oversized side pocket large enough to stash your book and beverage We love that the Dayloft is spacious and comfortable and is packable enough to use for car camping trips The Yellow Leaf Vista + Hammock Chair is one of the more unique hammocks on our list it’s a portable hammock stand and a hammock chair it is bulky but still small enough to pack for beach days or car camping trips And it’s worth it because the hammock chair is insanely comfortable Setting up the Vista is surprisingly easy and quick The aluminum frame is strong and the powder coating helps ensure it’s weather-resistant The hammock itself is hand woven and the upright position it allows you to sit in is perfect for reading and snacking the entire thing packs down into a travel backpack for convenient transport Check Price on Yellow Leaf Post surf hammock time at San Onofre in the Sea to Summit Pro Single Hammock Set In order to test these hammocks, you guessed it, we hung out. Literally. But also, we took some setting them up, noting any special features, lounging in them, and packing them up. We carried them around in backpacks to see just how portable they were. Our lead tester, Rebecca Parsons is a regular at her local beach and has been backpacking for over a decade so she’s slept in her fair share of hammocks We updated it in October of 2023 and added in a couple of new hammocks and some additional details like weight and load capacity for each hammock to bring you as detailed information as possible We updated this guide once again in December 2024 with one stealing the Best Overall Hammock title and one taking the Best Budget Hammock award We also added some additional information to our Buyer’s Guide plus updated links and improved navigation The ENO Doublenest is comfortable and durable We don’t think hammocks are labeled this way there are three main types of hammocks: lightweight Lightweight hammocks ring in at under 15 ounces and pack down small making them a great pick for hiking and backpacking Classic hammocks pack down fairly small and are relatively lightweight making them a great pick for camping and beach days Comfort hammocks are larger and less packable but they have lots of room to spread out and are typically the most comfortable option decide how you plan to use your hammock and select accordingly The Sea to Summit Pro Single Hammock Set packs down small into the attached compression sack Relaxing in the ENO TraveNest Hammock you’ll want something that’s easy to pack and unpack making it super easy to pack them up at the end of the day Bonus points if the straps fit into the sack Other hammocks must be carefully rolled up to go back into their bag The Yellow Leaf Handwoven Hammock is a comfortable spacious hammock that packs down surprisingly small Price: $55 Check Price on REI Some hammocks come with straps and others don’t It’s always our preference for them to come with straps but if they don’t there are plenty of options Many hammock brands sell straps that you can purchase separately if you don’t want to purchase straps we’ve used our surf straps from the car or a good old-fashioned rope will do the trick The ENO’s Atlas strap system Photo: Rebecca Parsons//The Inertia You simply loop it around a tree and it has multiple attachment points that you hook a carabiner onto Carabiners add weight so aren’t the best bet for ultra-lightweight hammock needs Return to Top Picks | Return to Comparison Table Editor’s Note: For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here Georgia's cat Annie working hard to find best cat hammock We tested the best cat hammocks where your cat can watch the world You won't regret buying one of the best cat hammocks it's my favorite thing that I've ever got for my felines Chilli and Nala and I wish I'd introduced them to one sooner They combine two things that cats can't get enough of: a cozy spot to sleep and a viewing platform to nose the neighborhood — and my pair are obsessed with their new perches You might be wondering if they're any different from the best cat beds but the main thing is that hammocks are highly positioned There are lots of different styles; some can be suctioned onto windows they help your cat to feel safe and secure as they can observe any threats from up high I've rounded up the best cat hammocks which have been reviewed by the PetsRadar testing team and their kitties The best free-standing cat hammockThis free-standing cat hammock is 8.3" off the floor and is made from sturdy bamboo It comes with two removeable covers that are soft and comfortable Read more below The best cat hammock for windowsThis hammock sticks to your window giving your cat a purrfect view of the world below fleecy and super comfortable and the instructions are simple to follow Read more below The best cat hammock with scratching postFeaturing a hammock your cat won't be able to resist this 3-in-1 design Read more below The best cat hammock for radiatorsThis hammock sits on your radiator giving your cat a warm and comfy place to snuggle down giving your feline a versatile resting spot Read more below The best hanging cat hammockThis stylish macramé hammock will look great in your home and is the perfect place for your cat to rest and retreat It's made from cotton rope that's strong and durable Read more below The best wall-mounted cat hammockThis hammock is the ultimate lookout spot and can be attached as high as you want on the wall It comes with high grip steps for your cat to climb and can support up to two pets Read more below (Image credit: 7 Ruby Road)(Image credit: Amanda Rebello)1 7 Ruby Road Large Cat Hammock Bed Best free-standing cat hammockOur expert review: This free-standing cat hammock is made from durable bamboo and is topped with a soft plush bed for comfort helping your cat feel safe and secure when they settle down for some sleep this could be a better option for senior cats or cats with mobility issues who might struggle to jump far The hammock can hold up to 33lbs and has anti-slip pads on the bottom to keep it in place It's easy to install and includes all the hardware you need to put it together you can detach the cushion and put it in the machine Our tester Amanda says: "The hammock is sturdy and the fabric pad is very soft My cat is 13 pounds and it doesn't wobble or move when he gets inside I liked that the fabric pad has ties to keep it in place I can also easily wash or vacuum it as well It took him a couple of weeks but he now lays in it all the time It was very simple to set up as all of the tools came in the box and the instructions were easy to follow." (Image credit: Zakkart)(Image credit: Megan Milstead)2 Zakkart Foldable Cat Hammock for Windows Best cat hammock for windowsOur expert review: I was a little bit nervous about installing this hammock and felt worried it would collapse when my cats sat on it I was pleasantly surprised at how strong it is and how easily it sucks onto the window (and other shiny surfaces) she was purring constantly and I could tell she was very happy She sits in it every day without fail and it's become her favorite place to sleep so it might be a better option if you haven't got big windows You can also fold it away which makes it easy to store I vacuum it every week and it looks as good as new afterward (this is saying something because Nala malts like crazy and uses it every day) I'm really impressed with this product and wish I got one sooner after seeing how happy it makes my cats (Image credit: Amazon)Annie sitting in the Amazon Basics Cat Hammock(Image credit: Georgia Guerin)3 Amazon Basics Cat Condo Tree Tower With Hammock Bed And Scratching Post Best cat hammock with scratching postOur expert review: We're really impressed with how affordable this is considering you get three functions for the price of one The scratching post is made from natural jute material which is great for keeping your kitty's claws in tip-top shape When your cat isn't sleeping or scratching they can enjoy swiping at the pompom ball for playtime PetsRadar's Editor Georgia recommends this hammock after testing it out on her kitten Annie She likes that it doesn't take up too much room in her home and that it tucks neatly away next to her sofa She says: "This hammock has become Annie's favorite place to sleep She also enjoys using the scratching posts We also voted this as the best budget cat tree. Downtown Pet Supply Cat Hammock Bed Best cat hammock for radiatorsOur expert review: This hanging hammock can be secured onto radiators or any other place that your cat wants to rest It's very straightforward to put together; simply put the fleece cover onto the metal wire and clip it onto your platform of choice giving your fur friend a comfortable place to sleep or observe their surroundings thanks to the foldable design that can be stored away when it's not in use It comes in two different colors (grey or beige) so you can find a style that suits your home Some reviews say that it's not the most supportive so we'd recommend this for smaller cats if you plan on putting it up high We're in the process of testing this hammock MEWOOFUN Macrame Cat Hammock Best hanging cat hammockOur expert review: You won't have to compromise on style with this hammock; the macramé design will look beautiful in your home Whether you want to hang it inside or out in the garden this bed is guaranteed to look great and won't take up any floor space The cushion inside is comfortable to sleep on and gives your cat a brilliant view of the world around them The hammock is suitable for kittens to medium cats and can hold up to 18lbs It's worth bearing in mind that you'll need to put hooks onto your ceiling to install it, so if you're renting or don't want to do that, you're better off choosing the best cat hammock for windows We're in the process of testing this out; our full review is coming soon (Image credit: 7 Ruby Road )(Image credit: Amanda Rebello)6 7 Ruby Road Wall Mounted Cat Wall Hammock Best wall-mounted cat hammockOur expert review: We highly recommend this wall-mounted hammock if you've got an indoor cat Felines love to climb up high and this bed allows them to do that if they don't have access to a garden It includes two high-grip steps (which are covered with thick woven jute rope) to help your cat reach the bed This also promotes physical and mental stimulation it blends in well with most walls and won't feel invasive in your home The bed is made from 100% cotton canvas that's reversible and can be hand-washed after use However, if you're renting or can't drill holes into your walls, we suggest the best cat hammock for radiators instead which hooks onto ledges with ease Our tester Amanda says: "The hammock is really nice and made of real wood It's great that the cloth part can be removed for easy cleaning I like that it is a neutral color so it matches my room since he has never been on the side of a wall before but he has slowly enjoyed jumping up and down It's at eye level of my Peloton so when I am riding he mostly just sits and stares at me while in it "This assembly requires someone with knowledge of using butterfly clips/wall mounts - it's not for beginners." it's easy enough to mount and dismount if you've had enough of it on your window I can vouch for this hammock being very simple to install It took me around five minutes and you don't need to worry about screwing any nuts and bolts (Image credit: Megan Milstead)(Image credit: Megan Milstead)How we tested the best cat hammocksTo find the best cat hammocks we spent hours researching various models on the market from window perches to free standing trees to help you find an option that's right for you and your cat the PetsRadar testing team reviewed them based on: Fit for purposeIf our cats don't like a product Our fur friends have spent hours lounging on these hammocks to ensure they're good enough (it's a hard job but someone's got to do it!) Set upThere are better ways to spend your time than reading boring instructions (like giving your cat lots of cuddles) That's why we ensured that the hammocks are easy to install so you don't waste precious time Value for money We assessed whether the hammocks were good value for money based on the quality and how much our cat liked them Here's more information about how we test There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing the right cat hammock for your feline companion While there are options to fit each budget doesn't automatically make it a better option for you or your cat There are a few things to consider before snagging the first one that catches your eye to designs that hang off of windows with suction cups to designs that are meant to be hooked into the ceiling You'll want to ensure that the bed you've chosen can be safely set up in your home drilling into the walls may not be appropriate then a suction cup option may be asking for trouble Be sure to look over how the cat hammock is set up to find one that works for your home SizeWhether you have lived with the same cat for years size should absolutely be a consideration when choosing a hammock You want something that can support the weight of your feline as well as give them room to get comfortable you'll also want an option that your fur baby can grow into This means you may want to investigate how sturdy the construction is Godfrey explains that they feel safer when they're off the ground She says: "Higher vantage points allow them to survey for threats meaning they feel safer to relax and get comfy when they’re out of reach Hammocks also make them feel enclosed as they sink into them which isn’t just comfortable and cozy "Cats also enjoy relaxing in hammocks because they’re often hung near radiators which make them even more cozy and warm – be careful it’s important to keep your cat safe from getting burnt." Curated byMegan MilsteadSocial Links NavigationCat owner and Staff Writer Pets RadarMegan is Staff Writer at PetsRadar and is a cat mom of two tabbies She has a passion for pet happiness and enjoyed putting the best cat hammocks to the test She has a degree in journalism from the University of Westminster and joined the PR team last year Hannah GodfreyVetHannah graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2011 and began work straight away at a busy mixed practice having completed additional training in these areas She has a wealth of experience caring for animals She studied BA Journalism at the University of Westminster where she specialized in lifestyle journalism and was editor of Smoke Radio’s lifestyle website Megan works alongside qualified vets and accredited trainers to ensure you get the best advice possible She is passionate about finding accurate and helpful answers to your pet-related questions TrendingResidentialSouth FloridaAHammocks receiver scales down HOA oversight settles suits against vendors accused of aiding alleged fraudAlso he settled the final lawsuit against the criminal defense counsel to the former board president for $95K the embattled West Kendall homeowners association where former board members allegedly ran a massive fraud But that doesn’t mean it is back to being fully independent from outside oversight who became the Hammocks receiver nearly two years ago following the arrests of five people accused of fraud The transition comes as Gersten wrapped up his civil lawsuits against former HOA vendors he accused of playing an “insider” role in the alleged scheme and also settled his claims against the final law firm he sued Gersten also has implemented a Hammocks Bill of Rights meant to impose additional protections against potential future fraud The bill of rights supplements safeguards already in state law and the Hammocks’ governing documents The end of the receivership marks a turning point for the Hammocks, which has been picking up the pieces after police in late 2022 arrested a former board president and her husband, as well as three ex-board members. Prosecutors allege a scheme where bogus contractors including some run by the ex-president’s husband were hired but did no work on the property The association’s payments to the contractors were then misappropriated including to the pockets of some of the former board members between Southwest 120th and 88th streets and between Southwest 147th and 162nd avenues in unincorporated Miami-Dade County former HOA vendors and criminal defense counsel to the former president was first arrested in 2021 on a charge of grand theft of association funds Most of these suits have settled over the past year and three more settlements were reached this summer a former criminal defense counsel for Gallego Gersten said the Coral Gables-based law firm received at least $180,000 from the HOA in 2021 and 2022 for its work as criminal defense counsel to Gallego pointing out that the Hammocks’ own governing documents require the HOA to indemnify board members Gersten recently settled his suit against Jesus Cue and his accounting firm Worldwide Business Solution for $50,000; as well as Raul Gonzalez-Cortina and his security services firm Off Duty Services of SOFL for $25,000 In the November complaint Gersten had accused Cue and Worldwide of receiving $637,000 from the HOA from 2019 to 2022 including while they were “aware of the fraudulent schemes” and assisted ex-board members “in improperly obtaining association funds.” In the same complaint Gersten claimed Off Duty Services provided personal security services to Gallego and another arrested former board members yet received $409,883 from association coffers Cue and Worldwide’s attorney Lorne Ethan Berkeley previously said they provided legitimate accounting services to the Hammocks and if there was any misappropriation of funds “Worldwide has resolved the matter with the receiver for a number significantly less than what was originally sued for,” Berkeley said SIGN UPOff Duty Services and Gonzalez-Corinate’s attorney Bryan Morera said the security firm denies involvement or knowledge of alleged fraud by former members The firm provided crime deterrence at the Hammocks at a time when car burglaries were on the rise the firm turned over information in response to the receiver’s subpoena “Despite the clear-cut evidence exonerating Off-Duty produced before and during the litigation … Off Duty was left with no choice but to negotiate a settlement with the receiver to avoid incurring unsustainable legal fees,” Morera said Worldwide Solution/Cue and the Off Duty/Gonzalez-Cortina’s settlement amounts aren’t coming from the companies’ insurers The settlement amounts also aren’t going to the HOA’s coffers In his push to recover as much funds as possible for the HOA, Gersten had obtained the full $1 million policy from the Hammocks’ former crime insurer Philadelphia filed subrogation rights claims in the lawsuit against Worldwide and Off Duty Services meaning a request for reimbursement for covered claims Philadelphia will collect the settlement amounts and also take over from Gersten as plaintiff in the claims against a third ex-HOA vendor Javier Ceppi and his computer and tech services vendor CompuFix Gersten had accused CompuFix of receiving $923,892 from the association and of aiding Gallego and former board member Monica Ghilardi in falsifying HOA election votes Ceppi and CompuFix could not be reached for comment The Hammocks now is led by its board elected in February Gersten will retain the power to access financial records approve the hiring and firing of all vendors attorneys and other outsiders providing professional services to the HOA and otherwise oversee the association’s operations In February, some homeowners mounted an opposition to Gersten’s plan to remain as monitor of the Hammocks taking issue with the receivership’s costs and some of Gersten’s practices despite needed repairs and suspension of a committee member Judge Beatrice Butchko has largely sided with Gersten telling homeowners at court hearings that a receivership is costly but needed to make the Hammocks whole Butchko approved Gersten’s motion to transition to monitor Butchko approved the Hermida Law settlement in June the Worldwide and Off Duty settlements last month The bill of rights mandates that the HOA’s professional service firms are licensed and independent from any ties to the Hammocks and its homeowners Gersten will remain monitor at least through year-end and will submit a report to the court on Dec recommending when he should be fully discharged Gersten or another monitor will continue to oversee all future board elections “There remains a pervasive fear within the community (and by the receiver),” Gersten wrote in a July court filing proposing his transition to monitor “that a future board could potentially disregard or dismantle the defense measures implemented to protect the community.”  TrendingResidentialSouth FloridaAHammocks settling for $3.5M another suit against ex-HOA attorneys Lawyers had litigated against investigators The Hammocks is settling for $3.5 million another lawsuit against the homeowners association’s former law firms The firms had allegedly waged a battle against investigators who were looking into allegations of fraud against an ex-HOA president which isn’t final until approved by the judge marks the fourth with former HOA attorneys in the wake of an alleged massive scheme by former board members to pillage association coffers In 2022, police arrested former HOA President Marglli Gallego and three former board members on charges they hired bogus contractors that did no work and then misappropriated the association’s payments to the contractors according to investigators’ arrest affidavit allegedly led many of the purported vendors Since the arrests, court-appointed receiver David Gersten has overseen the Hammocks and filed four lawsuits against former HOA attorneys for their alleged role in the scheme and Gallego’s criminal defense counsel is home to over 18,000 residents across 3,800 acres in West Kendall Last year, Gersten sued law firm Rasco Klock Perez & Nieto and attorney Hilton Napoleon II for legal malpractice and unjust enrichment Former HOA leadership had retained Rasco Klock and Napoleon from 2020 to late 2022 to help with litigation against investigators who were checking into Gallego’s dealings and to push back in court against subpoenas for HOA records Napoleon is described as a former partner at Coral Gables-based Rasco Klock in court records though he testified in a deposition that he was an independent contractor for the firm is no longer affiliated at all with Rasco Klock The settlement payout is expected to be covered by Rasco Klock’s legal malpractice insurer Rasco Klock and Napoleon admit to no wrongdoing or breach of duty Rasco Klock filed defamation and civil rights lawsuits against Miami-Dade County police officers who were pursuing a criminal investigation into Gallego as well as defamation suits against homeowners who had concerns about board malfeasance The suits were filed on behalf of Gallego and the HOA as a whole The law firm “hastily” filed the suits without a “diligent investigation” into the allegations against Gallego which would have revealed that she and other board members weren’t acting in the HOA’s best interest Rasco Klock and Napoleon litigated against investigators’ subpoenas for HOA records and were involved in the former board’s attempt to quash homeowners’ election recall effort Homeowners had complained that polls closed early during the 2022 board election The Hammocks paid Rasco Klock and Napoleon a combined $1.5 million Rasco Klock vigorously denied any malpractice or impropriety and said Napoleon and his private practice were much more involved with the HOA than Rasco Klock It was Napoleon and his private law firm that “performed a multitude of services,” for which he and his firm billed the HOA separately from Rasco Klock The receiver hasn’t provided allegations “related to anyone save Mr Napoleon frequently was based at the association’s offices,” Rasco Klock said “The firm’s involvement with the client was minimal pointing out he didn’t sign the settlement that was reached by Rasco Klock’s malpractice insurer “I was not part of any negotiations and I did not contribute anything to the settlement,” he said in a statement SIGN UPNapoleon reiterated his past statements that all of his work for the Hammocks was well-justified “I stand by my representation of the Hammocks based on the information that I had at the time The receiver has investigated this case for over two years and has been unable to present any evidence whatsoever to suggest I knew about the prior board’s alleged malfeasance,” Napoleon said most of the improper actions occurred in 2019 which is well before I began representing the association Rasco Klock also has argued that Gersten fails to say how exactly the law firm knew of the ex-board members’ alleged scheme and that Gersten has shown no evidence to back up his allegations Napoleon has said the lawsuits he filed against police officers came after they “slandered investigators’ records requests were illegally burdensome as they called for the production of tens of thousands of HOA documents The $3.5 million settlement is more than the $1.5 million Rasco Klock and Napoleon’s law firm allegedly received from the Hammocks for their work The total amount the Hammocks will receive is expected to be reduced to cover attorney fees for Gersten’s counsel in the case from the law firm Damian Valor Culmo who is presiding over the receivership case approved a contingency fee arrangement for Damian Valori for its work on the suit against Rasco Klock and Napoleon Damian Valori was paid on an hourly basis for its work on behalf of Gersten and a contingency fee allows the firm 33.3 percent from any recovery made in the Rasco Klock and Napoleon case That’s $1.2 million of the settlement amount Damian Valori attorneys declined comment on the settlement and their contingency fee arrangement Gersten and his team of attorneys from several law firms and forensic accountants have been working to claw back as much money as possible for the Hammocks after the alleged misappropriation of funds. This effort includes lawsuits against former HOA lawyers, vendors and non-criminally charged board members Many residents have welcomed the receivership team’s work to make the Hammocks whole again, but the receivership’s fees have become a sticking point for other homeowners Gersten and his team have recovered nearly $4 million for the Hammocks and have charged $3.8 million in fees for their work Gersten previously settled suits against two other ex-HOA law firms for a combined $800,000, as well as against Gallego’s criminal counsel for $106,000 but the Hammocks is the first known case where association attorneys have been sued for their role in alleged wrongdoing Editor’s note: This story has been updated with statements from Rasco Klock and Hilton Napoleon II ASHEVILLE - Eagles Nest Outfitters is celebrating 25 years from its Sweeten Creek Road headquarters was founded in 1999 by two brothers selling wares out of a minivan and is now ubiquitous with the outdoor hammock spokesperson Anna Rawlins told the Citizen Times: “You say I’m going to ‘go ENO,” instead of ‘go hammocking.’” ENO's first retailers were Mast General Store which opened in 1964 as an outdoor lifestyle store selling camping Diamond Brand CEO Will Gay said they "still carry it proudly," as does Mast "It’s hard not to get behind your hometown brand when you can support it," Gay said "I don’t think any of us could foresee the success that they have enjoyed ENO is now synonymous with hammocks and what the others strive to be." Where did ENO begin?The Pinholster brothers founded the business 25 years ago in Big Pine Key selling hammocks at music festivals and craft shows from their van The design was inspired on a backpacking trip to New Zealand by a hammock made from one large piece of parachute-like nylon the Citizen Times reported in a 2006 front-page feature The brothers took it back to the States and got to work The concept was rooted in the ideals of a “portable travelable hammock that you bring with you on all of your adventures,” Rawlins said and spread through the outdoors and music scenes ENO landed in Asheville in the early 2000s Co-founder Pete Pinholster is now sole owner of the company Shortly after the first hammock came out — the DoubleNest still sold today — Rawlins said they designed and patented the first knotless hammock suspension system a "gamechanger" that made ENOs even more accessible to everyone The hammocks compress down into the size of a grapefruit and can use two trees as an anchor point colorful hues are a mainstay of college campuses and a popular alternative to other gear for thru-hikers and day-trippers “It’s really exciting that something like hammocks has been able to build such a really fun from hardcore anglers to "hippy moms at a Dead show." "It's something that you can do in your backyard Rawlins said it's been a "whirlwind" to watch the company grow we’re all still so excited and passionate about every little thing that it feels like the company is just starting,” she said ENO has expanded beyond hammocks to chairs Co-owner Debby Thomas of Black Dome Mountain Sports which opened in Asheville in 1984 and was also an early ENO retailer said ENO was a company that "opened the door" to people hiking or relaxing with hammocks "When (people) think of an outdoor hammock that's usually what they're thinking of: the ENO," she said "It is just amazing to see them going from .. selling their hammocks at music festivals to an international company," she said Celebrating 25 yearsTo celebrate the milestone ENO launched a new DoubleNest hammock print in July made in collaboration with Asheville-based artist and musician Logan Hall A limited run of the new hammock will come with a woven label commemorating 25 years when ordered online at the company's website There are "fun ties" to the company's history and its music festival roots with a landscape scene blazoned on the fabric inspired by memories of lounging and listening to music Hall said ENO invokes nostalgia and fond memories both of festivals like Floydfest and Merlefest and from his days at Appalachian State University The hammock is "synonymous" with his college experience "They were everywhere and were perfect for every occasion," Hall said from hanging out on the "mall" between classes ENO is also holding a celebration with Mast General Store on July 20 it will kick-off a beer and hammock collaboration with Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton More: RiverLink plans new public park for Asheville's Riverside Drive: What to know More: NCDOT: Asheville Merrimon Avenue road diet early data is in: What does it show? Sarah Honosky is the city government reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. News Tips? Email shonosky@citizentimes.com or message on Twitter at @slhonosky. Please support local, daily journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times I have a confession: I'm not always the most courteous person on a flight I don't pick fights with flight attendants or eat tuna salad midair but I do constantly search for the most comfortable resting position that's pressing my knees against the seat in front of me I wanted to avoid feeling uncomfortable and bothering another passenger The solution I found was a $9 foot hammock But a few things kept me from pressing "add to cart" on Amazon Mainly, I like to pack as light as possible. I refuse to check a bag, meaning every bit of space in my carry-on is precious I wasn't sure whether sacrificing room for an item I would use during only a small portion of a trip would be worth it My final concern was that I wouldn't be allowed to use the hammock in the first place. Some airlines, like Air New Zealand prohibit items that hang from an aircraft seat Since foot hammocks hang from your tray table But after booking a 10-hour economy flight I wanted a new approach to getting comfy on a plane Since foot hammocks are affordable — I bought mine for under $10 — I figured I would give one a shot I realized my first concern — taking up precious carry-on space — was no longer a worry The hammock was smaller than a paperback book and I could easily find space in my backpack so I set up the contraption once I was settled in my seat The foot hammock is attached to an adjustable strap that wraps around your tray table The foot hammock allowed me to be in my preferred plane position with my knees up The passenger in front of me didn't indicate they could feel the hammock which made sense since my weight pushed toward the floor instead of into their back I didn't find the hammock helpful for stretching my legs straight which is how many of the online Amazon descriptions outline its use This didn't bother me since my height allows me to have my feet on the ground anyway But having another comfortable position for resting (that didn't disturb anyone else) was easily worth the $9 and room in my backpack you'll find me curled up in my seat with a foot hammock in tow either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content A video capturing a bear's amusing and fruitless attempts to climb onto a hammock in Vail The clip, posted on TikTok by Courtney Vucekovich (@courtneyvucekovich) humorously shows the bear's growing frustration as it tries The video begins with a small dog lounging peacefully on the hammock in a tranquil outdoor setting tied to a tree and surrounded by the sun-drenched Colorado wilderness A message overlaid on the video playfully sets up the contrast "How I thought buying this hammock in the mountains would go." A subsequent note overlaid on the clip reads, "Vs. whatever is going on here," as the idyllic scene quickly shifts in tone as the bear is shown stumbling in its attempts to climb into the hammock before finally giving up and appearing to "attack" a nearby pillow in frustration The footage was captured in August this year shortly after Vucekovich and her family moved into their vacation home in Vail going to buy another one so we can lounge together #bear #hammock The Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) website says "bears that get too comfortable around people can destroy property or even become a threat to human safety. "Most conflicts between people and bears can be traced to human food, garbage, pet food, bird seed or other attractants. When people allow bears to find food, a bear's natural drive to eat can overcome its wariness of humans," the website read The CPW advised that garbage should be securely stored in "wildlife-resistant containers" and never left out overnight while garbage cans should be put in a closed shed or garage Trash cans should also be regularly cleaned with ammonia or bleach because empty trash containers can still attract bears like trash cans and bird feeders (hummingbird out where they are accessible to bears is a violation of state law as well as some local city and county ordinances." Bears should never be approached or offered any food and those lucky enough to see one should watch from a safe distance stay calm and let the bear identify you and leave Be sure the bear has an opening to leave the area wave your arms slowly overhead and talk calmly keep looking at the bear and slowly back away until the bear is out of sight," the CPW said Vucekovich told Newsweek: "We bought a vacation home here last August so we've been here a year my family and I have been absolutely captivated by the nature around us "I've only ever seen deer and the occasional turkey so when I walked by the kitchen window and saw a bear doing somersaults in my hammock Vucekovich said her father initially thought something was wrong due to her screaming only to join in the excitement when he realized what was happening She explained: "My dad thought something terrible had happened and ran to the kitchen and then we were both screaming in excitement I had just bought that hammock from Lulu and Georgia but I didn't care at all because it was the cutest thing I've ever seen I had never even seen a bear in person before so watching one swing and fall off my hammock was the best thing that's ever happened to me." The video has sparked plenty of reactions from other TikTok users with many finding the bear's antics both comical and relatable humorously questioned "What is the bear doing?" Another user highlighted the comical moment when the bear lashed out at the pillow krivello1 shared their sympathy for the bear's frustration I feel her frustration and then to go and attack the pillow." Vucekovich said that despite the bear's struggle "I don't think my dad was this excited when I was born I have no idea how she—I've decided the bear is a girl—didn't completely destroy it but I've left it up for her in case she wants to come back and try again Vucekovich has installed a camera in the hope of capturing the bear's return saying "I even bought a camera to put on a tree in front of the hammock and I'm patiently waiting for her return," as are her TikTok fans TikTok users continued to shower the post with humorous reactions writing "She is BIG MAD," while punkyy130328 chimed in with @aprilrainville770 complimented the durability of the hammock "That's one sturdy hammock," a sentiment echoed by several other commenters Do you have a travel-related video or story to share Let us know via life@newsweek.com and your story could be featured on Newsweek Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground Newsletters in your inbox See all Family Handyman's Editorial Process Feel like you're (almost) on a tropical island vacation with Yellow Leaf Hammocks hanging in your backyard Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.Learn more. Yellow Leaf Hammocks gained popularity after being featured on Shark Tank The company’s mission is to make relaxation a part of everyday life while helping to make a positive impact on the Mlabri tribe What makes the brand’s signature hammock special is the softness of yarn the artful combination of colors and handwoven craftsmanship of each hammock No need to worry about scratchy nylon fibers or waffle-printed skin after a long nap—the airy weave is breathable and silky Yellow Leaf Hammocks’ hammocks are handmade by skilled weavers on a remote island in Thailand The brand is committed to making a positive global impact by providing cultural vitality environmental stewardship and promoting long-term economic health for these remote island artisans Shop On Yellow Leaf $229 at Amazon Each handmade signature hammock is unique these hammocks are versatile and can hang from porches The signature hammock holds up to 400 pounds so you can cuddle up with the kids or take a romantic nap there’s a family-sized version that accommodates up to 500 pounds and waited until the snow melted before setting it up outdoors I put the stand together by myself in a matter of minutes then line up the holes and use the supplied bolts to attach the pieces The instructions suggested putting a washer (not included) in between the frame and the bolts because it wasn’t illustrated very well in the instructions once I figured it out (point the end of the hook toward the inside of the frame so that the curve of the hook is on the outside of the frame) I attached the loops of the hammock to the gravity hooks The nice part about the stand is that it allows for adjustable height with several holes along the frame you can easily adjust the height by moving the gravity hooks it’s easy to slide across the lawn or move as needed The leaves hadn’t popped out on my little shade tree yet but I was happy to soak up some spring rays in the comfort of a pick from Yellow Leaf Hammocks It rained later that evening and the next day the hammock was still a bit damp as we were expecting snow the following night Yellow Leaf Hammocks have created quite a name for itself and buyers are taking notice of just how worth it these hammocks are “I bought this as a gift for my daughter who shares my love of hammocks,” writes five-star reviewer, Shemo “I have had different hammocks before and this is my all time favorite It is so comfortable and still looks new after many years.” “It’s simply wonderful,” boasts verified purchaser, HRH Prince Rob “The colors are even more vibrant in person The hammock is super-comfortable and is lightweight Another five-star reviewer, NDS easy to set up and I don’t feel like I could fall out but the quality is there if your budget is.” The beauty and comfort of this inviting hammock beacons relaxation I look forward to hanging out after a long day of work sneaking in an afternoon nap or stargazing in comfort I never realized how wonderful and calming having a hammock could be as I remember the old-school stiff hammocks that felt unstable and tippy the Yellow Leaf Hammocks offering conforms to my body and cocoons me in a soft I love that I can place this hammock anywhere in the yard with the stand or hang it at my favorite camping spot The handy carrying case makes it easy to store and travel with I enjoy supporting businesses that make a difference Yellow Leaf Hammocks provides opportunities for these talented women in Thailand by creating sustainable jobs I’ll be enjoying the lazy days of summer in perfect bliss The brand recommends hand washing in cold water with a non-bleach detergent Always tie a string around the hammock to keep it contained thanks to the materials they’re crafted with Hammocks are good for the spine as long as they’re assembled correctly ensure that your hammock is made with high-quality materials Our experts love testing the latest and greatest products Sheri Katz is a veteran product tester who tried the Yellow Leaf hammock Sheri reviews dozens of home and lifestyle products each month for Family Handyman She is a veteran gardener with over 30 years of experience Katz also helps her interior design clients with exterior designs We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices We recommend our users to update the browser Hammocking (aka mocking) is all the rage with people eagerly awaiting their “pup cup,” a whipped cream and dog biscuit concoction Americans spent a whopping $136 billion on their pets And because dogs are the most popular animal to parent it’s a safe bet where much of that money went The dog hammock is one of the latest in dog-centric products available for folks eager to spend a little cash to make their pups happy Dog hammocks are sort of a like a traditional hammock in that they’re made from material draped or suspended between two points But while might get your dog to enjoy a traditional human hammock (clip their nails first!) Dog hammocks come in two varieties (three if you stretch it): Enter the grooming hammock Smith says these hold a dog still so you can give their legs and tail a trim these hammocks can have a calming influence on your pup “By placing their four limbs through openings in the fabric ‘swing’ and gently suspending the hammock apparatus off the ground,” Greenstein says “it allows pet parents to isolate their paws individually which is really helpful for manicures and pedicures.” Dog grooming hammocks hang from an arm that’s part of a grooming table but they can also be suspended from the ceiling (Smith recommends a table for ease.) Whichever option you choose make sure it’s secure so you and your dog stay safe know the weight limits of any hooks and anchors used Car hammocks don’t hold or control your dog; they protect your car seat and perhaps keep the dog off the floor and to limit distraction to the driver.” Smith adds car insurance companies may invalidate your policy if your dog distracts you and causes an accident When choosing a dog harness or seat belt apparatus to go with your hammock Smith recommends paying attention to the weight restrictions “Your dog’s size will matter greatly,” Smith says Make sure to check the crash-test ratings for the harness you choose If your pup loves riding with you in the car As far as grooming hammocks go, dogs may find the swaddling nature so relaxing that they actually fall asleep June 24, 2024 | FlaglerLive | 8 Comments The Palm Coast City Council last week approved the final plat for 51 town homes in The Hammock at Palm Harbor a 15-acre subdivision on the south side of Clubhouse Drive about 200 feet west of Palm Harbor Parkway The Hammock at Palm Harbor was approved in 2005 for 112 three-bedroom condos A new application for the 51 town homes was submitted and approved in June 2022 and a site development plan issued last August with preliminary plat approval at that time The final plat step draws up the legal demarcations between lots and addresses One street will run down the center of the subdivision with a single point of entry and exit on Clubhouse Drive The cluster of trees at the northeast end of the property will remain undisturbed The council followed the planning department’s recommendation and unanimously approved the final plat without comment or questions from council embers or the public June 24, 2024 at 12:04 pm The name “Hammock at Palm Harbor” is confusing The “Hammock” refers to the area on the other side of the Intracoastal Waterway between Marineland and Flagler Beach… June 24, 2024 at 2:20 pm bet Alfin as usual had something to do with this going up Has anyone asked him with all this building what is he doing about the traffic in PC The streets are not equipped to handle all this development June 24, 2024 at 2:50 pm June 24, 2024 at 3:03 pm Ed White: Palm Coast has been drooling for years to take over the Hammock PC painted their logo on the water storage tank PC tried to tell Hammock people they had to incorporate in order to get water they tried to slip over the ICW and take a beach or two they say the area is “Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches” but they don’t want to pay for the beach re-nourishment They can continue to fake it like the real estate magazines do June 24, 2024 at 3:59 pm More developed property with no infrastructure development this city and county are decade’s behind on road development and other needs for the public.They must have a lot of money tucked away with all the money collected from impact fees and taxes June 24, 2024 at 5:47 pm Keep approving homes that the average person cannot afford June 24, 2024 at 7:42 pm Has this Council ever met a developer they didn’t approve while rubber stamping every development that comes along June 25, 2024 at 8:25 am The people who make and sell Yucatán hammocks struggle to stay in business The hammock traces its roots to the Indigenous peoples of places like the Maya lowlands in Yucatán, but especially the Taíno people of the Caribbean The word “hammock” itself derives from the Taíno term hamaka Early hammocks were crafted from natural materials such as tree bark designed to withstand tropical climates while providing a suspended sleeping space This elevation protected sleepers from damp ground and snakes—an essential innovation for survival in dense rainforests But these days most people prefer the comfort of cotton or polyester These days artisans and merchants behind Yucatán’s iconic hammocks face mounting challenges to stay in business putting at risk a centuries-old tradition deeply tied to the region’s identity a family-run hammock business with 60 years of history warns that many traditional hammock makers are on the verge of shutting down He cites disorganization in the marketplace and unfair competition as key threats to the industry While Yucatán hammocks peaked in popularity 25 years ago Salazar Rosado notes a sharp decline in exports forcing artisans to rely on local sales and tourism Hawkers diverting tourists to craft shops—rather than authentic hammock vendors—further hurt business A well-made Yucatán hammock costs between 400 to 700 pesos despite their reputation as “the best hammocks in the world,” European buyers often opt for cheaper imports from countries like Denmark to save on shipping Salazar Rosado urges state and federal authorities to promote Yucatán hammocks globally as superior “There will always be those willing to keep making hammocks—it’s part of our history a hammock isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity.” To its day it is not that unusual for Yucatecos to make their own hammocks The journey begins with selecting premium materials The material chosen has a lot do with its purpose and resilient nylon is prized for longevity with cotton being the preferred choice for hammocks that will be exposed to the elements The threads are carefully measured and prepared often being hand-spun to ensure consistent quality before the weaving commences though some master weavers work without any frame at all tying a series of intricate knots that form the hammock’s foundation as the quality of these connections determines the hammock’s strength and comfort The body of the hammock emerges through a technique called “crochet knotting,” where the weaver’s fingers dance rhythmically This signature open weave allows for optimal airflow while providing gentle support An experienced weaver can tie thousands of these knots in a single hammock with larger family-sized versions requiring up to six kilometers of thread the artisan incorporates decorative elements Traditional patterns may include geometric designs or symbolic motifs representing Mayan cosmology The sides are reinforced with tighter weaving to prevent stretching while the ends are gathered and secured with a special braiding technique that forms the hammock’s characteristic hanging loops The final product is a lightweight yet incredibly strong sleeping net that can support several hundred pounds True Yucatecan hammocks are identifiable by their fine weave and generous size – typically stretching three meters long when hung allowing for diagonal sleeping that provides unparalleled flat support This labor-intensive process can take anywhere from two weeks to several months depending on the hammock’s size and complexity often this is taken on as more of a project intended for one’s own use or as a gift people tend to take the process a little more calmly and relaxed much in the way someone may knit you a sweater if you live in colder climates NASA incorporated hammocks into the Apollo missions to provide astronauts with rest in zero gravity. Meanwhile, the world’s longest hammock stretched an astonishing 1,840 feet, earning a Guinness World Record. It has also been proven that sleeping in a hammock improves rest due to its gentle rocking motion Yucatán Magazine has the inside scoop on living here. Sign up to get our top headlines delivered to your inbox every week using the phone in Mexico will be a little simpler for everybody making phone calls within Mexico uniformly 10 digits Only the area code and the local number is needed for either landlines and cellphones More than four years after shutting its doors is one of the most iconic celebrations in Mexico but it’s done differently in Yucatán Yucatán Magazine has commissioned a special pillow to benefit the nonprofit organization Xpujil is an archaeological site in the south of the Mexican state of Campeche and within the limits of the contemporary town of the same name public murals in public don’t always get the respect they deserve To see a mural and its artist disrespected in a cultural capital such as Merida is shocking enough That it’s happened in a state-run art school is even more striking Advertise With Us – Miami-Dade prosecutors announced Friday that they’ve made another arrest in a yearslong ongoing investigation into the Hammocks Community Association Authorities booked Kevin Leonardo Alzate, 32, the cousin of former homeowners association president Marglli Gallego into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center Friday afternoon Gallego, along with Monica Ghilardi, Jose Antonio Gonzalez, Myriam Rodgers and Yoleidis Lopez, were previously arrested in the case “The HOA’s attorneys also repeatedly represented to circuit court judges that Alzate was the custodian of records,” prosecutors said “During a rule to show cause hearing against Alzate as the custodian of records for failure to produce HOA records handled production of document requests for the HOA.” Alzate’s affidavits contributed to lengthy delays in the investigation and obstruction resulting in further victimization of the innocent members of the Hammocks community,” the news release states Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle called Alzate’s actions a “deliberate slap in the face” to the court system and judges and allowed the HOA board members to “continue their thefts.” Alzate appeared in a Miami-Dade courtroom Saturday where a judge set his bond at $11,000 and ordered him to surrender his passport Copyright 2023 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved Follow @DelRiverWFront on Twitter Chris Gothner – Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle held a news conference Tuesday afternoon to announce the arrests of past and present board members of the Hammocks Homeowners Association Fernandez Rundle’s office confirmed Tuesday morning that there have been multiple arrests for thefts of funds from the association said she and her neighbors living in 40 subdivisions were being held hostage “We are celebrating that the homeowners are free This is something that is spreading all around We’re not the only community that is going through this,” said Danton “400% is abusive,” said Alejandro Gonzalez “There are a lot of senior citizens living here Los Pichy Boys call the Hammocks in southwest Miami-Dade County home “These people are supposed to be working for us,” Gonzalez said “These people are to be working with us so we can have a better life for our families Not to be feeling like we are living in a micro-dictatorship.” Fernandez Rundle said board members stole more than $1 million in an “organized crime scheme.” “The board annually collected approximately $4 million in dues that were paid by the homeowners,” she said “It appears that most of those funds and millions of HOA reserves are gone.” Those arrested are being held on bonds totaling more than $2.8 million Local 10 News reached out to Attorney Napolean Hilton who had been representing the association earlier this year Copyright 2022 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com TrendingResidentialNew YorkA“Recipe for fraud”: The alleged scam that rocked South Florida’s biggest HOAEx-board members accused of siphoning $2M from association Nicolas and Lourdes Padron never imagined having to leave the Hammocks a suburban Miami enclave that was their home for three decades The Hammocks Community Association claimed the couple owed thousands of dollars in arrears on assessments and that their house wasn’t up to its standards a tree needed pruning and the hurricane shutters weren’t up to code They just threw amounts,” Lourdes Padron said The couple tried to disprove the violations before the homeowners’ association sent them a statement in February claiming they owed $4,335 had complained for years of mismanagement by association leaders and opaque financial statements Authorities started poking into it around 2017 It would take five years until the Hammocks leadership collapsed. In November, police arrested four ex-board members and the husband of a former board president alleging they looted roughly $2 million from association coffers As criminal investigators and a court-appointed receiver now overseeing the HOA try to untangle an alleged web of financial deceit authorities have warned more arrests could be coming The case struck a chord with communities that suspect their boards are engaging in fraud It also illuminates the shortcomings of the state’s HOA law While the law provides routes for legal action it puts the onus on homeowners to react instead of giving a government authority the power to prevent fraud before it happens since they would have to ante up for litigation while the boards’ attorneys are bankrolled through homeowners’ dues “It really is the perfect recipe for fraud,” said Dan Small Marglli Gallego rode to power at the Hammocks in 2015 Some residents viewed her as a savior from previous board members they disliked But investigators allege Gallego turned out to be far from righteous They say funds were siphoned from HOA coffers and through five companies — two led by Gallego’s husband The companies allegedly posed as service providers and vendors to the Hammocks Gonzalez’s Excellent Work & Services received over $1.1 million from the HOA starting in 2016 as did other ex-board members charged: Myriam Rodgers Much of the money allegedly went into the pockets of Gallego and Gonzalez who led the other three companies through which funds were funneled started out providing legitimate services until Gallego handed him checks for no work kept some for himself and handed the rest to Gallego or to Excellent Work he was asked to wire funds to a bank account in Gallego’s name in her native Colombia Attorney Sebastian Jaramillo said it is as if the board members didn’t try to mask their alleged chicanery “The fraud to me seems very unsophisticated It’s a situation where she is paying to her husband’s company which is domiciled in her own addresses,” he said “There isn’t even any attempt to hide it.”  who was first arrested last year on claims that she misappropriated funds She and Gonzalez are accused of racketeering All five defendants have pleaded not guilty Their attorneys either declined to comment or didn’t respond to a request for comment “We are very curious to see what they [authorities] have to support those allegations SIGN UPThe Hammocks encompasses over 6,500 single-family houses spanning 3,800 acres between Southwest 120th and 88th streets and between Southwest 147th and 162nd avenues The Hammocks is far bigger than the traditional HOA that the state law was crafted to target Association leaders were left in control of a community larger than some cities without the oversight that would exist in an actual municipality Case in point: Residents said the board imposed a 400 percent assessment hike in March “Yet that’s exactly what this association did.” Some Hammocks residents said the more they spoke out After Eldridge “Manny” Coburn signed a petition this year to recall the board The recall effort came after the association closed polls early in January Investigators say the HOA never provided proof of this the HOA and Gallego claim they are the true victims Investigators issued three subpoenas for financial records which amounted to over a million pages of documents and were “outrageously burdensome,” the HOA claims in a lawsuit filed this year against the state attorney’s office An HOA attorney told a judge that the board refused to comply because it “doesn’t trust the state,” filings show Gallego claimed she was a passionate leader of the Hammocks who spearheaded free activities such as after-school tutoring and Zumba classes according to a suit she filed against Miami-Dade police officers who were investigating her She claimed her “political opponents” led a campaign against her The association was therefore within its right to pay for a surveillance firm at the Hammocks The HOA tapped into the Hammocks’ budget for many of its legal fights according to the November arrest affidavit For Gallego’s four criminal defense attorneys the HOA has shelled out more than $250,000 State law takes a hands-off approach to HOA oversight but the Hammocks case shows this isn’t working which the Hammocks allegedly ignored starting in 2018 Yet the statute requires HOAs to provide the reports only once a records request is made rather than requiring that they be submitted annually as proof they were completed Residents in dispute with the HOA can pursue mediation or sue — but at a cost “This is still a legal expense for the residents for the hourly rate for the mediator and whoever is their attorney at the mediation,” he said elected officials have called for a tightening of the law the Padrons have made Tamarac their new home “You didn’t know what kind of threats were going to come next,” Lourdes Padron said You may have seen it. A video circulating on social media capturing a man in a hammock on board a city bus refusing to take it down at the bus driver's request "Where's the no hammock sign?' the man wearing a red hoodie is heard saying in the video while stretched out in a blue hammock attached to two silver grab bars inside the bus behind the driver's seat The original post source is from Facebook users Lexi and Ocean Anders a newly married couple "making amazing videos" whose Facebook page had more than 30K followers as of Wednesday "This video was made for entertainment purposes only," the Las Vegas couple captioned in a May 1 post on their page with the video which as of Wednesday afternoon had been liked more than 133,000 times Although the Anders did not share the skit's shooting location Apology issued: Thomas Jefferson University goes viral after announcer mispronounces names at graduation "It was a really fun video to make and we really enjoy sharing these wacky moments," Ocean "Did you see the seen where I'm spinning around like an anaconda?" and what it's creators have to say about the skit: telling the man to get out of the hammock and take it down "If you don't come out of the bag I'm calling the police," the driver says then spins around in the hammock like a giant  “There's AC in here and I'm not moving," he says at one point "What the..." one alleged bus passenger on the video is heard saying "Can you get down so we can get where we are going In a nearly 45 minute live video posted on their Facebook page Ocean introduces himself and his new bride "You guys would not believe how many people are sending me this video of this man I'm him," Ocean revealed in the Monday Facebook post Florida bus crash: 8 killed, dozens injured when bus carrying farmworkers crashes, overturns in Florida shared on multiple online social media platforms in recent weeks One Instagram user posted the video along with the hashtag #nycmta, #newyorkersbelike,#nycsubway, #nyctribe and captioned it Some users on the social media platform assumed it was shot in New York City "Thank you mayor Adams and mayor deblazio you created these situations the place is a zoo animals running around wild and lawless," one person wrote Immediately below that comment someone wrote "Real NYers know very well that this is not a nyc bus." Some Facebook users who commented on the original on the couple's page stepped into defend hammock man "I fully support this man," one person commented on original post and people wanna gang up on a guy trying to sleep in safety instead of under a bridge where someone can rob him." Costume shindig: Minnesota couple celebrates state's new flag with a Statehood Day party Although they do not reveal their last name or say whether other people on board are actors "I have always hated how upright and stringent those seats are in buses and airplanes.. how they lay and how comfy you are in them," he says and there was no sign that said no hammocks." "The bus driver eventually saw what I'm doing," Ocean says the couple's video had been shared more than 49K times on Facebook Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund – Tensions are mounting in the heart of the Hammocks with a digital billboard a growing caravan and even a state senator and a Latin pop star weighing in Cuban singer Willy Chirino is calling for an investigation into the community’s homeowners association after questions have been raised about elections “400% is abusive,” said Alejandro Gonzalez of Los Pichy Boys He attended another meeting Thursday where residents consulted attorneys and discussed their options They’re angry with the arrest of the board’s former president for allegedly stealing money, then issues with voting getting the attention of local leaders “Our fees were $90 a month in my community where I live and it’s been hiked up to $370 dollars,” 30-year Hammocks resident Charlene Gurucharri said “It’s a crazy thing we are a not-for-profit organization,” added resident Ana Danton An attorney for the HOA says fees were low for so long that they want to put it in perspective “This is the first increase that the Hammocks has had in the past 7 years,” attorney Hilton Napoleon said Local leaders are still pushing for a look at their finances and the election of that board A growing group of residents has been raising money for a legal defense fund is among the politicians that have taken some of the issues to the state attorney’s office Andrew Perez is a South Florida native who joined the Local 10 News team in May 2014 TrendingResidentialSouth FloridaAHammocks guide: Inside embattled HOA’s affairs since ex-board members’ arrestsJudge Beatrice Butchko will consider receiver’s transition plan on Thursday (counterclockwise top-left) Jose Antonio Gonzalez Monica Ghilardi and Myriam Rodgers; aerial of the Hammocks HOA (Miami-Dade Corrections AAABy Lidia DinkovaFeb 21 3:36 PMWhen five people were arrested in November 2022 on charges they ran a massive fraud at the Hammocks homeowners association it marked the end of residents’ yearslong battle to take down allegedly corrupt board members The arrests also marked the beginning of efforts to put the HOA’s affairs in order residents and court filings have alleged that four former board members misappropriated HOA funds by hiring fake contractors that did no work on the property and bullied anyone who spoke out by filing bogus code violations and sending threatening letters a 3,800-acre community with roughly 18,000 residents in 5,500 single-family homes Court-appointed receiver David Gersten and a team of attorneys and forensic accountants have overseen Hammocks affairs since the arrests and have worked to recoup funds for the HOA hire a management firm and maintenance contractors and untangle the ex-board’s web of financial transfers that allegedly spanned at least 50 bank accounts and credit cards Now, Gersten has outlined a power transition plan that would still grant him oversight over some HOA affairs, including after the board election set for next week. His proposal touched off a firestorm as some homeowners want Gersten and his team out of Hammocks dealings altogether and others prefer he continue to guide the HOA So what exactly has the receivership accomplished? What is left to do and what are the obstacles? (Hint: The Hammocks’ criminal case history isn’t helping the HOA get a reprieve from already skyrocketing insurance premiums.) And what are the gripes of the receiver’s opponents The Real Deal put together this guide from court filings and other records A major focus for Gersten has been to claw back funds for the HOA and track down others who may have had a role in the alleged scheme Although prosecutors originally claimed the fraud totaled roughly $2 million Gersten’s investigation has shown at least $4 million was misappropriated by criminally charged ex-board members the receivership has recovered nearly $3.9 million in payments for the HOA from lawsuits and insurers Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company, the Hammocks’ former crime insurer, tendered its full policy limit of $1 million. The tender came after Gersten filed in September a civil remedy notice of insurer violations against Philadelphia Indemnity to the Florida Department of Financial Services Although Gersten had filed a claim to the insurer days after the arrests Philadelphia Indemnity hadn’t made a determination of coverage for nearly a year and kept asking the receiver for records already provided The Hammocks also became the first known HOA fraud case where association attorneys and vendors –– and not just board members –– were accused of wrongdoing claiming they did nothing to stop the alleged fraud The suits against the non-criminally charged ex-board members settled through the full $2 million tender of the directors and officers insurance policy limit two of the suits against ex-HOA attorneys settled with the full tender of the lawyer’s malpractice insurance policies resulting in a combined $800,000 in collections for the Hammocks The more recently filed case against the security Settlements remain elusive in two of Gersten’s suits against ex-HOA attorneys and Gallego’s criminal defense counsel all based in Coral Gables and named in one of the suits received a combined $350,000 from the HOA to represent Gallego in the 2021 criminal case against her the firms have argued the Hammocks’ own regulatory documents allow the HOA to indemnify its board members saying it’s actually common for associations to advance legal fees for their board members then nobody would be [serving] on boards,” Ricardo Hermida said Rasco Klock Perez & Nieto and Hilton Napoleon II were hired by the ex-board to help fight Miami-Dade County police officers who were poking into Gallego and the HOA said Gersten has provided no evidence to support his allegations against the law firm “Simply filing a lawsuit … does not create liability “I have asked the receiver to short-circuit this and [to] ‘show me what you have show me.’ Despite the fact that I have asked for this evidence Napoleon II said he will keep fighting to prove that his work for the Hammocks was well-justified The suit he filed against the police officers came after they had “slandered including telling Hammocks residents and vendors that she was “stealing money” from the HOA Investigators’ requests were illegally burdensome leading the HOA to hire outside help to compile the documents and diverting employees from their daily work The HOA provided a batch of 12,500 records but when investigators didn’t pay for these documents the Hammocks board –– and not Napoleon –– decided to decline to provide another request for 11,000 records “I never made any decision in the association and I don’t have the authority to walk into an organization and tell them to give up all of those records,” Napoleon said A trial is set for July 8 in the Rasco Klock and Napoleon case The Hammocks is in a tough spot when it comes to insurance After its general liability policy expired last month and only three insurers offered coverage at “exorbitantly high” premiums The receiver selected the carrier that quoted a $735,525 annual premium which is less than the others that quoted up to $1.5 million as attorneys are looking into the HOA self-insuring for general liability until it has a record free from claims for five years it can cancel its general liability policy within three months for a 65 percent refund of the annual premium it pre-paid SIGN UPGersten also is looking for a new umbrella insurance policy which provides protection above the general liability insurance The umbrella policy also expired last month and the carrier refused to renew insurers have quoted annual premiums of $193,858 for a $1 million limit as well as $410,681 and $562,980 for a $5 million limit Gersten and his team have finalized this year’s budget for the HOA which has roughly $4.7 million in City National Bank and Truist Bank accounts Using funds collected from the lawsuit settlements Gersten decreased homeowners’ assessments by more than 10 percent and the dues 18 sub-communities pay to the master association from 50 percent to 70 percent The receiver also is working with residents who dispute their account balances with the HOA and he has rolled out a payment plan for homeowners with overdue assessments Over 500 residents owe roughly $1.5 million in dues homeowners with balances of less than $1,000 can put down half and pay the rest over four months Homeowners with balances from $1,000 to $2,500 can put down 40 percent and pay the rest over six months Homeowners with balances of over $2,500 can put down 30 percent and pay the rest over a year At least 21 residents have signed up for a payment plan Gersten did away with fees charged to homeowners for overdue assessment reminder letters HOAs have to prepare annual audited financial statements which the former board failed to do from 2019 to 2022 forensic accounting firm Kapila Mukamal and certified public accountant HOA Books are expected to finish the unaudited financial statements and Hammocks tax filings for these years hired to prepare audited financial statements said the work would be costly and overlap with Kapila and HOA Books’ work Gersten has asked Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Beatrice Butchko to waive the requirement for audited financial statements for these years to obtain at least three competitive bids for capital improvements of roofs The Hammocks will hold its next board of directors election on Feb In total, 12 candidates are running for seven seats, including all homeowners currently serving on the advisory board. For more information, visit https://www.hammockscommunityassociation.info/ Because prosecutors and residents had accused the criminally charged board members of election fraud including closing the polls early in 2022 over a supposed bomb threat Gersten has outlined what he calls a “Fort Knox”-type election process The ballot box will be bolted to the clubhouse floor and guarded by security during working hours It will also be streamed live on the HOA’s website 24/7 according to a status report he submitted to the court last month Gersten proposes that after the June meeting of the new advisory board he remains receiver only for litigation and insurance claims he has filed but will step back as court-appointed monitor for all other HOA affairs at least through year-end Gersten also will remain as election monitor until the court “is satisfied that the association’s elections are fully protected and do not require outside oversight,” he wrote in the filings His continued oversight is needed to prevent the Hammocks from falling “back down into a maelstrom of impropriety,” he said in his filings Opponents to the plan have taken issue with Gersten’s fees and his narratives in his court filings Gersten points out fund collections he has obtained for the Hammocks but omits to say he and his team have charged the HOA nearly $3.2 million for their work homeowner Edward Uribe wrote in the objection and says the HOA has a zero balance in its reserve account Gersten has managed the HOA in an “autocratic heavy-handed approach,” Uribe said in his filing claiming that Gersten’s team has interviewed board election candidates with questions such as “How do you feel about the association’s overall expenses in general and its legal expenses in particular?” and “How do you feel about the receiver?” These types of questions give the impression that candidates who don’t “answer questions to the receiver’s liking” will be removed from the process Gersten hired “his old-line contacts within the legal community” as attorneys to help him in the receivership instead of going through competitive solicitations “We thought the receiver would be an independent ‘manager who would objectively’ make decisions on behalf of the members without the cloud of a conflict of interest,” Uribe wrote retired judge (who still thinks he is on the bench) … The association has become his captive client.”  Uribe calls for Gersten to step down from all HOA affairs after the election can still be held accountable if it does a bad job at leading the Hammocks Butchko already approved Gersten’s request to remain election monitor she will consider the rest of his transition plan Gersten and his attorneys declined to comment on Uribe’s objections saying the receivership team will respond to the opposition at Thursday’s court hearing Aside from Gallego, the ex-board members charged in the fraud scheme are Monica Ghilardi Prosecutors also charged Gallego’s husband who is accused of managing many of the allegedly bogus HOA vendors Attorneys for Gallego and Ghilardi didn’t return a request for comment and a representative from the office of Garcia’s attorney said the lawyer declined to comment provided this statement: “While the outrage of the homeowners is certainly understandable We look forward to thoroughly vetting any evidence provided by the state On today's episode of 'I Thought I Had Seen It All,' a man is arguing with a bus driver because he is hanging out in a hammock on the bus This is definitely one of the viral moments where it is hard to say if it's staged or not Instead of wasting your time trying to figure out if the 'hammock guy' really thinks he's not doing anything wrong just enjoy the fact that he really is in a hammock on a public city bus You can literally google the work hammock right now and this video will come up immediately in the search people who live in big cities like New York say they wouldn't be surprised if this guy really was just trying to nap in his hammock on the bus The 'Hammock Guy' starts to spin "Show me the no hammock sign." You've got to give it to him on that one there were not any 'no hammock' signs on city buses Safe to say that this incident may encourage public transportation drivers to install some just in case this hammock trend catches on This is one of those situations where they will most likely have to create an oddly specific rule like a 'No hammocks allowed on bus' rule just to prevent this one person from doing it We won't lie we definitely to get a few good laughs out of this viral video but some people have opened the conversation on a deeper level of the increased homelessness issue in major cities While we can't confirm of the man in the video is homeless or if this was just a skit its interesting to see the different conversations that have sparked up online as a result of it It's safe to say that if you start seeing 'No Hammocks' signs on buses this is the guy you need to discuss your aggravation with If you start seeing 'No Hammocks' signs, this is why.\nRead More Taste of Home's Editorial Process We tested nine hammocks with stands to find the best pick for your backyard Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.Learn more. Few things evoke the carefree summers of childhood like lounging outdoors in the sun with a good book a simple hammock can bring back that blissful feeling Should you opt for a single or double hammock we put nine of the internet’s most popular hammocks to the test Our picks are all but guaranteed to make you feel like a kid again 199.8922% OFF$155.89 at Amazon There’s a lot to love about the Suncreat double hammock It checks nearly all the boxes for what the best hammock should look like: It’s easy to assemble; there are over 18 prints colors and patterns for any backyard style; and this is the most comfortable hammock I’ve ever used Its extra-large double capacity means I’m cradled in every direction—with room to spare That added room makes shifting around on the hammock easy without fear of tipping over The latter has way more space to spread out you simply slide the stand pieces together until they snap into place then hang the hammock net from the attached carabiner hooks I find my hammock only fits on the first few rungs of the chain which means as the net stretches with time I’ll be able to pull it tighter and prolong its use we suggest taking your time getting into it; otherwise Ensure the hammock is on a completely flat surface it provides ample support and feels secure I’ve laid in this hammock multiple times by myself and with my husband While we don’t meet the advertised 475-pound capacity I’m confident this hammock can hold diverse body types There’s no great way to clean the hammock bed Since the rope is interwoven with the netting you can’t separate the two to run the cover through the wash but I also bring the net into my garage after each use $79.74 at Amazon “So I appreciate the neutral colors and easy design as it adds a little something extra and makes it look a bit nicer hanging in my backyard.” The 9-foot stand is a bit shorter than other models we tested, but it still holds two people and up to 450 pounds. Plus, it’s easy to assemble. “Putting together any backyard accessory or piece of patio furniture can be intimidating but the Amazon Basics hammock was truly easy from start to finish,” Caitlyn says “You’ll barely get through listening to a few songs before it’s complete and you’re ready to relax.” Caitlyn found the fabric sturdy but not uncomfortable “It feels like you’re in a little cocoon and aren’t going anywhere,” she says the lower it’ll go.” Both petite Caitlyn and her over 6-foot husband found the hammock comfortable even though it’s not specifically designed for a taller person Shop on Yellow Leaf Hammocks Hammocks are notoriously tricky to get in and out of Your body weight needs to be centered just right If you’re not looking to take that risk These hangers are just as comfortable but provide easier access I tested the Yellow Leaf Hammocks Vista chair and was instantly impressed Everything arrived neatly packaged inside an incredibly well-made carrying case It was thick and padded with adjustable straps—it reminded me of a guitar case Assembly was just as simple as the other two stands I put together—you’re just snapping pieces together—but slightly less intuitive I relied on the instructions quite a bit to ensure I was piecing the right parts together The hammock net was packaged separately inside another carrying case I thought to myself that there was no way this could support an adult’s body weight But I gave it a try and was pleasantly surprised This hammock chair cradled every inch of my body in the most comfortable It’s the ideal position for reading a book or chatting with loved ones the fabric (handwoven and signed by the artisan!) is light breathable and perfect for hot summer days I’m also a little concerned about stretching The hammock chair already hangs pretty low to the ground and there’s no way to adjust it higher Only time will tell if the weave of the hammock loosens $74.25 at Walmart “This seems to be a really nice hammock. I was impressed by the quality of the steel stand,” shares Product Reviewer Pamela Bondurant “I had expected some thin aluminum but found really thick steel It required no tools and took me less than 10 minutes (and would be much faster now that I know how it goes together).” The hammock itself is made of a sturdy polyester and cotton fabric that reminded Pamela of tweed you’ll need to set the hammock to the correct height “The height of the hammock is adjustable by moving the pole attachments to new positions which is a little frustrating because it requires trial and error,” she says My first two attempts had me hitting the ground The hammock is comfy to lie in, cocooned or with legs and arms stretched to the sides. It also comes with a carrying case for easy toting to the beach or a campsite 90.006% OFF$83.73 at Walmart The padded topper separates from the net for seamless care “The vinyl cover is small enough to fit into a washing machine should the need arise,” Pamela says And that’s not its only admirable feature this hammock is well-made and easy to assemble “It has thick steel construction and tool-less assembly and didn’t even require hand tightening any parts since it uses button locks to connect the steel poles It took about 15 minutes to assemble and some time to tie on the vinyl cover and pillow.” finding the proper height required trial and error “It was somewhat strenuous to stretch the hammock into the setting that would be at a suitable height but most should be capable of getting it hooked up,” Pamela says This hammock holds two adults and up to 450 pounds “My pit bull mix found it extraordinarily comfortable,” Pamela quips 109.9923% OFF$84.99 at Amazon $74.99 at Best Choice Products 199.9962% OFF$74.99 at Walmart “It’s a cocoon-style hammock that wraps around you to keep you inside While I prefer the breeziness and style of a lay-flat hammock I have to admit that laying in this hammock was like being swaddled!” Nicole found this hammock a bit tricky to put together The instructional diagram leaves much to be desired and she accidentally installed the S-hooks incorrectly it’s supportive and sturdy with a capacity for two people and a weight limit of 450 pounds “It’s nice that you can also adjust the hammock to be higher or lower by adjusting the placement of the S-rings on the vertical poles,” says Nicole “You have to untangle yourself a bit to get out of the ‘swaddle’ but the hammock doesn’t tip or flip as much as the other lie-flat model I have Keep in mind that this style of hammock may not be ideal for warmer climates as it is akin to being wrapped in a blanket There are also no manufacturer cleaning instructions While the five hammocks above passed our rigorous tests including standalone nets and hammocks designed for camping To best serve our readers (who love to relax in their backyards!) I focused on hammocks bundled with stands This style is generally the easiest to set up and is versatile for use in treeless backyards or on a patio The downside is that they’re less portable I spent several hours researching brands and reading user reviews I considered a mix of popular merchants—including picks from Amazon Home Depot and Lowe’s—as well as a variety of price points I assembled a crew of five testers and called in nine hammocks relaxing and cleaning our hammocks in backyards across the U.S we have over 35 years of professional experience A spreader is a bar attached to a hammock that maintains its structure as they can make the hammock easier to climb into but some claim they are less comfortable than an alternative that cocoons the body It all depends on pre-existing back issues (which can be exacerbated by sleeping in a hammock) as well as the quality of the hammock itself Not all hammocks provide the support the body needs but high quality ones offer benefits like relieved back pressure and promotion of spinal alignment TrendingResidentialSouth FloridaAInside the battle for the Hammocks HOA’s future leadershipDavid Gersten says he should stay on as monitor to ensure community doesn’t fall back into “maelstrom of impropriety” Over a year after five people were charged with running a massive fraud at the Hammocks the homeowners association is again embroiled in contention Now, Gersten has a plan to wind down his receivership, retaining oversight over certain HOA affairs as a court-appointed monitor. His proposal has touched off a firestorm at the Hammocks, dividing homeowners at the West Kendall community that is home to more than 18,000 residents The Hammocks has about 5,500 single-family homes townhomes and condos across 3,800 acres between Southwest 120th and 88th streets and between Southwest 147th and 162nd avenues While some homeowners support Gersten’s proposal to continue guiding the Hammocks as monitor others have taken issue with this plan and the receivership’s costs the receiver has been working with a board of directors elected in April But they have had less authority than they usually would and act as advisers to the receiver including weighing in on how recouped funds should be spent and the types of committees the Hammocks should form The Hammocks will hold its next election on Feb he would remain as receiver specifically to keep working on pending lawsuits and insurance claims he has brought on behalf of the HOA he would act as monitor at least through year-end he already has court approval to remain as election monitor until the court “is satisfied that the association’s elections are fully protected and do not require outside oversight,” he wrote in the filings The proposed limited discharge of Gersten is rooted in his concern that otherwise the Hammocks would fall “back down into a maelstrom of impropriety,” he wrote in filings referring to the alleged mismanagement by the arrested board members The “modus operandi” of the ex-board was secret meetings, and it kept its “ironclad grip” on the HOA by “hijacking its elections,” while working with “insider” vendors and “in-house consultants” that played a role in the scheme some on the current advisory board have exhibited behaviors reminiscent of the criminally charged board members Gersten removed Carlos Villalobos from his position as chair of the Governing Documents Committee and that he canceled a meeting against the receiver’s direction and without providing proper notice Villalobos also is on the advisory board and is running for reelection Some on the advisory board already have called for the hiring of in-house legal and accounting consultants instead of sticking with independent outside contractors It’s unclear if this suggestion was due to “a sincere concern” over HOA costs or is an attempt “to nefariously stage a coup to enrich their pocketbooks,” he added in-house contractors were “calling cards” for the criminally charged board members They leveraged their concerns about independent contractors and then hired in-house vendors including a security provider that the ex-board used as its own “muscle” and “enforcer,” allowing the board members to conceal their alleged fraud “Any new advisory board members with a penchant for secrecy will need to be weeded out before the advisory board transitions into a full-fledged operating board,” Gersten wrote “The receiver believes he is best able to assure the sanctity of the board and the association’s governance by remaining as a monitor to both advise the board and report to this court.” how would the “weeding out” process of advisory board members work Hammocks homeowner Edward Uribe wrote in a court objection to the transition plan “who gave the receiver such omnipotence that only he can save the association from itself.” All current advisory board members are “honest” and “well-intended,” but also divided with one faction supporting all of the receiver’s decisions They are “afraid of the receiver,” following his removal of one member from a committee and the group still “votes along to get along,” Uribe wrote “The problem is the receiver and his autocratic vindictive approach to consensus building,” he alleged in his court objection pointing out how much narrative Gersten devoted to Villalobos’ suspension in court filings Uribe takes issue with Gersten’s oversight of the Hammocks questioning why he reduced this year’s assessments when the property is in “disrepair” with “dirty/moldy” common area walls And he brings up a longtime sticking point for the receiver: The costs he has charged the HOA Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Beatrice Butchko who is presiding over the case in which the receiver was appointed has approved more than $2.5 million in fees to Gersten and the law firm for which he is partner Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani; the receiver’s counsel at Damian | Valori | Culmo; outside counsel and advisory committee counsel at four law firms; a forensic accountant; and a technical consultant Gersten “boastingly” points out that his work has led to nearly $2.9 million in collections for the HOA the receiver’s work has led to additional collections for the HOA with recovered funds now nearly $3.9 million according to Gersten’s status report filed this month He also charged an additional $638,876 in fees for work done from Oct payments to the receiver and his team would reach nearly $3.2 million “It is abundantly clear that this court believes we and only he [Gersten] can save us,” Uribe wrote in his objection when it comes to the “exorbitant” legal fees Uribe calls for the discharge of the receiver after the election they say they are “alarmed” by Gersten remaining as election monitor call for an “unbiased external monitor” of the election that the receiver may work with and argue that Gersten’s narrative in his court filings prematurely convicts future board members of secrecy “The receiver has referred to his work in the last election in the Hammocks as the fairest election the community has ever seen,” the homeowners wrote “This sentiment ignores the decades of volunteers that have run the association without any issues of impropriety.” Some of the legal fees they have been billed are for administrative work that the property manager and not lawyers should be doing, the homeowners added. They also take issue with Gersten’s proposal to craft a Hammocks Homeowners Bill of Rights, which he says is intended to beef up oversight over the HOA after state lawmakers failed to go far enough in new legislation regulating associations But the Bill of Rights requires approval from either a third or 51 percent of homeowners They also again take issue with Gersten’s claims about Villalobos arguing they amount to “public humiliation and exaggerated accusations.” Gersten has refused to view evidence Villalobos has offered to refute the claims against him 19 advisory board meeting minutes Villalobos provided to The Real Deal he disclosed that at one point the Governing Documents Committee held weekly meetings not broadcasted on Zoom and only for committee members to advance the committee’s work But he pointed out that the committee cannot make any final decisions and all of its recommendations and discussions held at these meetings were then relayed to the advisory board he said that the committees are regularly scheduled to meet monthly for roughly an hour “This limitation makes any advancement challenging as it limits discussion time and the protocol of it all includes the presence of lawyers (whose presence is quite costly) who can restrict the conversation,” he said in the statement “I can categorically deny that we never had a ‘secret’ meeting after receiving the first violation,” he added Villalobos also alleges “disparate treatment,” arguing that the receiver “unfairly” cited the Governing Documents Committee cancellation which was done with less than two days’ notice as other committees have canceled meetings two hours in advance but never faced repercussions One Hammocks homeowner has an entirely different take on the opposition against the receiver Outside attorneys are coming into the community and fomenting discontent over the receiver’s fees in an effort to replace Gersten and represent the Hammocks as counsel This was the impetus for Uribe’s objection to the transition plan adding that in-fighting among residents is not in the best interest of the HOA ‘no,’” to supporting opposition to Gersten “It’s a battle for the money the receiver is making.”  The homeowner sent a letter to Butchko calling for the judge to allow Gersten to continue guiding the Hammocks His opponents are “making us believe this legal counsel is concerned about our finances when the reality is that they are after the Hammocks account,” the homeowner wrote in the letter already approved in December Gersten’s plan to remain as election monitor until further notice the judge will consider the remainder of his transition plan