Want To Practice Your Tennis Skills? Sign Up For The Adult Tennis Clinic Today Fri Dec 08 2023 17:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Historic Bonnet House Museum & Gardens - Iconic South Florida Historic Museum And Estate Offers A Variety Of Art Classes, Workshops, Exhibitions, Horticulture And More South Florida Sun Times Sep 10, 2025 Bonnet House Museum & Gardens (Bonnet House), An Iconic Cultural Landmark Located In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Is Thrilled To Unveil An Extraordinary Season Lineup That Promises To Captivate Art Enthusiasts, History Buffs, And Nature Lovers Alike. This Season, Guests Can Immerse Themselves In The Vibrant Legacy Of Bonnet House During Yoga On The Veranda, Bees In Our Bonnet, Art And Orchid Care Classes, And Beloved Annual Event Staples Such As Holiday Magic, And The International Orchid & Garden Festival Which Provides Something For Visitors Of All Ages. New In 2026, Guests Will Experience A Very Creative And Cultural Outdoor Art Exhibition, "ZimSculpt," which will take place from Thursday, January 15th, 2026 Through Sunday, April 19th, 2026. Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, a fanciful blend of art, architecture, history, and ecology, provides a charming destination for vacationers or day trips for visitors. At the Bonnet House, visitors can experience what life was like on a beachfront estate in the 1930’s and 1940’s. The 35-acre grounds contain the Main House which features a whimsical collection of decorative sculptures and fine art, as well as nature trails ideal for families. Bonnet House offers exciting self-guided and guided tours, programs, events, workshops, classes, and a speaker series. Interested visitors can become a Bonnet House Member for $65 annually and receive significant discounts on classes, workshops and special events, as well as receive free admission to Bonnet House year-round. In addition, Broward Attractions and Museums Month (BAMM) is Monday, September 1st, 2025 - Tuesday, September 30th, 2025, where visitors who mention BAMM will receive one regular price admission and get a second admission of equal or lesser value for free. All upcoming classes and events at the Bonnet House can be registered for in advance. Please visit: www.bonnethouse.org/events - Or call: (954) 703-2606: Classes & Workshops: Birding Classes Sunday, October 5th, 2025 & Sunday, November 9th, 2025; from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Join birder extraordinaire, Paddy Cunningham, to discover the wonderful world of birding on the beautiful Bonnet House Estate. Each class will include an informative PowerPoint, numerous handouts, workshop activity and a walk around the garden to look for birds. Cost: $25/Members, $30/Non-members Watercolor Basics Workshop Tuesday, October 7th, 2025 – Tuesday, November 11th, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join watercolorist Barbara DiMartini on the Historic Bonnet House Veranda for six weeks of classes. Learn the basic techniques of painting with watercolor. All classes will be on the Bonnet House Veranda overlooking the freshwater slough. Cost: $220/Members, $250/Non-members (all sales are final and non-refundable) Intermediate Watercolor Workshop Thursday, October 9th, 2025 – Thursday, November 13th, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join watercolorist Barbara DiMartini on the Bonnet House Veranda for this six-week session. The workshop includes traditional techniques of realism in watercolor and line drawing, as well as time to paint in the gardens. Art tables are available in a shaded area. Cost: $220/Member, $250/Non -Member. All class registrations are final and non-refundable. Yoga on the Veranda Friday, October 17th, 2025, Friday, November 14th, 2025, Friday, January 9th, 2026, Friday, February 6th, 2026, Friday, March 13th, 2026, Friday, April 17th, 2026 & Friday, May 15th, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The best medicine is nature! Join Lisa Pumper, E-RYT 500, YACEP, to experience deep healing, restoration, and rejuvenation as we return to nature with a slow sacred Hatha Yoga flow on the beautiful Bonnet House Veranda. Cost: $25/Member, $30/Non-member. Includes self-guided grounds tours. Is Beekeeping Right for You? with Master Beekeeper Joanna Diamond Saturday, October 25th, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Many people want to keep bees, they think they can just put them in a box and that’s it – but being a responsible beekeeper is so much more complicated and involved – come and learn the facts of Beekeeping. Cost: $30/Members, $40/Non-members Oil/Acrylic Workshop Tuesday, January 6th, 2026 – Tuesday, February 10th, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join teacher Bonny Opie to learn how to create beautiful images with oil/acrylic paint. Basic oil/acrylic techniques such as underpainting, glazing, composition, and the use of light and color will be covered. All artists are welcome. Cost: $220/Members, $250/Non-members Orchid Care Classes (2) 2-hour classes Orchid Basics: Tuesday, January 6th, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Orchid Replanting & Mounting: Tuesday, January 13th, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. There are two Orchid Care classes that are 2 hours each. Classes will include a tour of the Orchid Display House and the Orchid Greenhouses. Cost: $30/Members, $35/Non-Members Oil/Acrylic Painting Workshops (6 weeks) Tuesday, January 6th, 2026 - Tuesday, February 10th, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 17th, 2026 – Tuesday, March 24th, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Learn how to create beautiful images with oil/acrylic paint. Basic oil/acrylic techniques such as underpainting, glazing, composition, and the use of light and color will be covered. All artists are welcome. Cost: $220/Members, $250/Non-members Watercolor Workshops (6 weeks) Wednesday, January 7th, 2026 - Wednesday, February 11th, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 25th, 2026 – Wednesday, April 1st, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join watercolorist Barbara DiMartini in the historic Bonnet House Gardens for these six-week sessions. The workshops include traditional techniques of realism in watercolor and line drawing and time to paint in the gardens. Art tables are available in a shaded area. Cost: $220/Members, $250/Non-members Acrylic Painting Workshops (6 weeks) Thursday, January 8th, 2026 – Thursday, February 12th, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, February 19th, 2026 – Thursday, March 26th, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. These two six-week sessions with Fine Artist Jane Riles in the historic Bonnet House Courtyard include basic principles of acrylic painting and time to paint in the covered courtyard and gardens. Cost: $220/Members, $250/Non-members Events: Bonnet House Fine Artist Member Exhibits and Opening Receptions Currently Running Exhibit: Now – Sunday, September 7th, 2025 Exhibit : Tuesday, September 9th, 2025 – Sunday, November 2nd, 2025 Opening Reception: Wednesday, September 10th, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Exhibit: Tuesday, November 4th, 2025 – Sunday, January 4th, 2026 Opening Reception: Wednesday, November 5th, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Exhibit: Tuesday, January 6th, 2026 – Sunday, March 8th, 2026 Opening Reception: Wednesday, January 7th, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Step into a vibrant celebration of local creativity in the Gallery’s middle room, where the Bonnet House Fine Artists’ Exhibits showcase a rotating collection of works by talented regional artists. Join us for each exhibit’s opening reception, where you’ll enjoy a sparkling wine welcome, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar offering beer, wine, and soda. It’s a relaxed and inviting setting—perfect for connecting with the artists and fellow art enthusiasts. All art is available for purchase and benefits both the artist and the museum. Cost for Opening Receptions: $5/Members, $10/Non-members (each exhibit is included with general admission) Secret Fort Lauderdale Meet & Greet and Book Signing with Author Christiana Lily Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Did you know Evelyn Fortune Bartlett was the ultimate hostess for her guests to the Bonnet House? Learn more about the eccentric artist from the author of the brand-new "Secret Fort Lauderdale," which highlights other obscure, weird and wonderful stories from Greater Fort Lauderdale. You just might leave with the recipe to Evelyn's iconic cocktail! Cost: $10 (registration required https://www.bonnethouse.org/event/secret/) Holiday Magic Friday, December 5th, 2025, Saturday, December 6th, 2025, Wednesday, December 10th, 2025, Thursday, December 11th, 2025 & Friday, December 12th, 2025 Celebrate Five Nights of Holiday Magic at the Whimsical and Historic Bonnet House Museum & Gardens! The House and grounds will be lit up and sparkling during this five-day holiday celebration. The celebration kicks off Friday, December 5 with a VIP Opening Reception followed by Whimsical Wonderland, an evening for families, on Saturday, December 6th, 2025 and then followed with magical Evening Experiences on Wednesday, December 10th, 2025, Thursday, December 11th, 2025 & Friday, December 12th, 2025 with live music and libations each night. All the trees, wreaths, and centerpieces throughout the house will be lit and designed to delight, and will be for sale. Costs: Holiday Magic VIP Opening Reception Friday, December 5th, 2025: VIP $150 Whimsical Wonderland on Saturday, December 6th, 2025 and Evening Experiences on Wednesday, December 10th, 2025, Thursday, December 11th, 2025 & Friday, December 12th, 2025: General Admission Adult, includes two drink tickets: $35/Members, $40/Non-members Ages 13 – 17: $15; Ages 6 – 12: $5; Ages 5 & under: Free ZimSculpt – Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit from Zimbabwe Thursday, January 15th, 2026 – Sunday, April 19th, 2026, from open to close daily Honoring the artistic legacy of Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, ZimSculpt, will provide a high-quality, immersive, and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. Experience over 2,000 inspiring, hand-carved stone sculptures by 150 artists from Zimbabwe. Displayed throughout Bonnet House, this extraordinary exhibit will transform the grounds into a sanctuary of global artistry. The exhibit will include daily live demonstrations by two renowned artists sculpting on-site, offering an immersive look into traditional Shona carving tools and techniques. All artwork will be available for purchase—from bold garden centerpieces to small décor items and meaningful gifts—directly supporting Zimbabwean artists. Cost: Included with General Admission Opening Reception: Saturday, January 24th, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Cost: $50, includes light fare and cocktails by Hugh’s Catering International Orchid & Garden Festival Saturday, April 11th, 2026 & Sunday, April 12th, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The annual festival welcomes orchid enthusiasts and plant lovers alike to vividly experience and purchase diverse, colorful and fragrant varieties of orchids, tropical plants, herbs, and fruit trees sold by local and international vendors. The two-day event will take place rain or shine. Admission includes Orchid Festival and Self-Guided House & Grounds tours. Children 12 & under are free. No discounts or group rates apply. There will be no guided house tours during the festival weekend. All tickets are valid for either day, and are non-refundable. Cost: $25, Includes Orchid Festival, Zim Sculpt Exhibit, Gardens, Lectures, and Tours Special Family Days Saturday, November 15th, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 28th, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Join us for memorable Special Family Days at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, filled with engaging activities for all ages! Explore the grounds, wander through scenic nature trails, home to native plants, majestic trees, and graceful wading birds. Tour the Historic House Museum and step inside and discover charming and delightful collections of art and personal treasures from the Bartlett family. Relax on the veranda while you enjoy live classical performances by the talented Gold Coast Youth Orchestra. Family-friendly activities include participating in a variety of fun and educational activities designed for the whole family to enjoy. Cost: Half price for adults and free for those 13 years old and under, tickets can be purchased at the door 2026 Speaker Series Monday, January 12th, 2026 Guest Speaker – Bonnet House Historian Kent Planck “Hugh Taylor Birch” Monday, February 9th, 2026 Guest Speaker – ZimSculpt Founders ZimSculpt: Hand-carved stone sculptures from Zimbabwe Monday, April 13th, 2026 Guest Speaker – Dr. Ott Seashells: Nature’s Sculptures Cost: Free/Members, $5/Non-members Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is open for self-guided tours Tuesday – Friday 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and closed on Mondays, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Guided tours are also available. Members are always free. Click here to become a member today. For more information, please visit: www.bonnethouse.org. About the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a 35-acre subtropical estate and historic house museum located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. Bonnet House, Inc. is a NonProfit, 501c3, whose mission is to celebrate the story of Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, and preserve the art, history and nature of Bonnet House, providing inspiration and respite for all. Bonnet House is located at 900 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 and is open for tours Tuesday–Friday from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and Saturday — Sunday from 11:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m. For more information, please visit: www.bonnethouse.org . Previous Next

Code Enforcement Laws Have Changed: Hallandale Beach Has Been Reestablishing and Expanding Their Code Division Thu Mar 16 2023 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Provide Your Pet With A Stress-Free Thanksgiving November 23, 2023 Share Thanksgiving is a day to be thankful, indulge in delicious food, and gather with friends and family. But our pets may find the holiday Stressful if they suddenly find themselves surrounded by a large group of unfamiliar people. As owners prepare to give thanks, Dr. Lori Teller, a Clinical Professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, offers tips that owners should keep in mind to ensure their pets have a Stress-FREE holiday. Introducing Pets To New Guests The key thing to remember when introducing pets to new visitors is that pets should be allowed to meet people on their own terms. “Some animals are very eager to meet guests and will willingly approach them, but owners may need to help calm an overly excited dog to keep it from jumping on someone, especially if it’s a small kid or a frailer guest,” Teller explained. “On the other hand, pets that are more cautious around people they don’t know will need to be approached slowly.” One way owners can help their pets adjust to guests is by providing treats. “An owner can give the guests some treats to share with the pet as encouragement, but if a pet does not want to interact with someone, it should never be forced,” Teller said. “Some pets may be happier with a special treat or new toy in a quieter part of the home where they can avoid the festivities.” If owners choose to give their pets treats throughout the day, they should be careful to avoid common holiday foods that can make pets ill. Foods that should not be fed to pets include anything containing: Onions, Garlic, Grapes, Raisins, Walnuts, Chocolate, or Xylitol, which is typically found in Baked Desserts and Sugarless Goods. Owners should avoid giving anything that is rich, seasoned, or Alcoholic as well. “In general, it is a good idea to avoid giving table food to your pet,” Teller said. “If you feel you must share something, a couple bites of Turkey with the Skin removed and no Gravy, some plain Green Beans, or a bite of Bread can be fine.” Signs Of A Stressed Pet Pets that may not easily adjust to holiday crowds could exhibit various signs of Stress. “One of the biggest results of Stress in a pet is trying to hide or leave the home, so beware of doors that are left open as people enter and exit,” Teller said. “Dogs may also show Stress by trembling, licking their lips, yawning, or avoiding people and activities.” If a pet is not feeling the holiday, it’s important for owners and guests to not overwhelm them with attention, as it can lead to negative reactions. “There’s a chance that if guests persist in giving unwanted attention to pets, the dog may growl or bark, or the dog or cat may bite or scratch someone in an effort to remove a perceived threat,” Teller said. Owners should also evaluate and address their pet’s Stress level at multiple points during the festivities so that they may determine the best solution for soothing their anxious companion. “Pets with higher Stress levels may need to be placed in a quieter part of the house where they won’t have to interact with guests, and some pets may be happier staying elsewhere, such as a boarding facility or at a friend’s home,” Teller said. “If pets have mild Stress during parties or social gatherings, owners can speak with their Veterinarian about using a short-acting medication to alleviate the Anxiety.” Preparing Pets Ahead Of Time Even though Thanksgiving can be filled with prepping delicious food or relaxing with family and friends, owners should still take time to give thanks for their animal companions and ensure they don’t get left out of holiday fun. “Taking a long walk before guests arrive can be a great way to tire your dog and minimize stress for both of you,” Teller said. “If your cat likes to chase a laser pointer or other toys, you can do that before guests arrive as well. During the event, you can give your pet a long-lasting treat or new toy to occupy their attention for a while.” Familiarizing your pets with guests who may visit during the holidays before the big day can also help pets more easily adjust to the festivities. “Having people visit your home on a regular basis, where your pet can be exposed to guests and get used to the sounds and smells that go along with entertaining, goes a long way to prepare your pet for a gathering,” Teller said. With a little bit of preparation and attention, you and your pet can have a healthy, happy, and stress-free Thanksgiving surrounded by those you love. Pet Talk is a service of the School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the web at: www.vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk - Suggestions for future topics may be directed to: vmbs-editor@tamu.edu . < Previous News Next News >

FHA-Insured Financing: Why Most Florida Condos Aren't Eligible Thu Dec 07 2023 17:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Government Made Simple: My Aventura: Revolutionizing Citizen-City Connectivity June 9, 2023 Share In today's bustling world, cities are constantly evolving, and their citizens play a crucial role in shaping their development. Enter the My Aventura App powered by GOGov, a groundbreaking digital solution designed to bridge the gap between citizens and their cities like never before. With its user-friendly interface and powerful features, the My Aventura App empowers citizens to connect, engage, and actively participate in the growth and improvement of their city. Let's explore how this innovative app is transforming the way we interact with our urban environments. Seamless Information Access The My Aventura App acts as a comprehensive information hub, providing citizens with easy access to vital city-related information. From public transportation updates to real-time traffic alerts, citizens can stay informed and make informed decisions for their daily commute. Moreover, the app offers a platform to showcase upcoming events, cultural festivals, and community initiatives, ensuring citizens are always in the loop about what's happening in their city. Users can even submit requests for city services including: pothole repair, graffiti removal, etc., it's like having City Hall in the palm of your hand. Collaborative Civic Engagement Engagement between citizens and local authorities is essential for a thriving city. The My Aventura App facilitates this by offering an interactive platform for citizens to voice their opinions, report issues, and contribute to decision-making processes. Through the app, citizens can submit feedback, suggestions, and even participate in surveys and polls, enabling local governments to better understand the needs and aspirations of their constituents. Efficient Service Delivery The app streamlines city service delivery, eliminating bureaucracy and reducing response times. One of the main benefits of the app is that citizens will no longer need to search through the City’s website to find the names and information of their elected officials and message them. Citizens can report a variety of issues directly through the app, along with geolocation tags and descriptions. This efficient reporting system ensures that the concerns of citizens are addressed promptly, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability between the city administration and its residents. Community Building And Social Impact GOGov serves as a catalyst for community building, connecting citizens with like-minded individuals and fostering a sense of belonging. The app enables users to join interest-based groups, and collaborate on local projects, nurturing a vibrant and inclusive city culture. By facilitating social connections and shared initiatives, The My Aventura App contributes to the overall well-being and social fabric of the city. Cost Savings Implementing a mobile app can also result in cost savings for local governments. By providing services through a mobile app, governments can reduce the need for physical offices and staff, resulting in reduced costs. In addition, the app can help reduce the need for paper-based processes, which can save money and reduce the environmental impact. In an era where technology is reshaping our lives, the My Aventura App emerges as a powerful tool that enables citizens to connect with their city in unprecedented ways. From easy access to information and collaborative civic engagement to efficient service delivery and enhanced urban mobility, this app empowers citizens to actively participate in shaping their urban environments. With GOGov, the future of citizen-city connectivity is bright, promising, and accessible at the tap of a screen. < Previous News Next News >

Sell Your Change Tue Jun 08 2021 17:40:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

ZAKA Search & Rescue Operating NonStop Amid Operation Roaring Lion Jewish Connection News Apr 23, 2026 Since The Launch Of Operation Roaring Lion, ZAKA Search & Rescue Has Been Operating Around The Clock, Responding To The Full Spectrum Of Emergencies Across Israel While Maintaining Its Core Mission Of Kavod Hameis, Honoring The Deceased. Beyond Routine Responses To Accidents And Fatalities, Zaka Volunteers Have Been On The Front Lines Of Every Iranian And Hezbollah Missile, Rocket And Drone Strike. Full-time ZAKA Search & Rescue liaisons are embedded with the IDF Homefront Command, mobilizing and directing ZAKA’s units even before the impacts occur. Equipment and personnel are continuously deployed to the field, with temporary trailers strategically deployed across the country to ensure rapid restocking and immediate return to service, often responding within the very neighborhoods volunteers have lived in for years. Since the operation began, all special operations teams have been on emergency standby, operating under the guidance of ZAKA Search & Rescue’s national command center. “Our incredible volunteers in the field are the first to arrive and the last to leave each scene of devastation, helping to extricate those trapped under the rubble so emergency medical services can triage, treat and transport, and helping recover those for whom medical treatment is no longer possible, giving their families as much closure as we can,” said ZAKA Search & Rescue Chief of Operations Chaim Weingarten. “Whether it’s a car accident, terror attack, rocket strike or complex recovery, our volunteers demonstrate extraordinary expertise, compassion and sensitivity on every scene.” In addition to wartime operations, ZAKA Search & Rescue volunteers continue their broader emergency response work, responding to fatalities, traffic accidents, work accidents, drownings and other tragedies, as well as search and rescue missions for missing persons. “ZAKA Search & Rescue’s responsibility is to the deceased and to the families who depend on us for certainty and dignity,” said ZAKA Search & Rescue CEO Dubi Weissenstern. “Our volunteers are not responding to abstract scenes, they are responding to homes they grew up in, to neighbors they saw hours ago. For the first time during this war, we have deployed our Resilience Unit to the scene of every rocket and drone strike scene where volunteers may encounter fatalities, ensuring our holy volunteers receive the support needed, on site, to continue their holy work and return back to their families.” “Even in times of war, ZAKA Search & Rescue’s volunteers work tirelessly to ensure every individual is treated with respect and that families can lay their loved ones to rest with clarity and honor,” said ZAKA Search & Rescue’s U.S. Executive Director Moshe Rozenberg. “Each volunteer embodies our mission nonstop, standing beside families and authorities so dignity, compassion and closure remain at the center of every response.” Founded to honor the dead in accordance with religious tradition, ZAKA has evolved into a full-scale emergency response network, with over 4,000 trained volunteers operating 24/7 across Israel to honor the dead, aid the living and bring dignity in times of devastation. Today, it operates a wide range of units – from rapid medical response and search and rescue to water recovery to culturally sensitive burial teams serving Israel’s Jewish, Bedouin, Arab and Druze communities to international units deploying at a moment’s notice to crises across the globe. For more information, visit: https://zakaworld.org/ . Previous Next

Carrying On The Mission To Empower People - Dan Marino Foundation Joins The Community Foundation Of Broward With A New Endowment South Florida Sun Times Nov 5, 2026 The Dan Marino Foundation Is Now Part Of The Community Foundation Of Broward, Thanks To A New Endowment Created By Dan And Claire Marino To Carry On Their Mission To Empower People With Autism And Other Developmental Disabilities To Live Life To The Fullest. During Dan Marino’s legendary career as quarterback of the Miami Dolphins, he and Claire’s second son, Michael, was diagnosed with Autism. So, in 1992, he and Claire launched the Dan Marino Foundation, which for more than 30 years has invested in programs, partnerships and innovative approaches to help people with special needs overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. Now, by establishing the endowed Dan Marino Foundation Fund at the Community Foundation, the Marinos have enlisted the Community Foundation’s expert team to continue their strategic grantmaking, innovative fundraising and dynamic collaborations that elevate opportunities and shape brighter futures for people with Autism and other developmental disabilities. This philanthropy partnership ensures ongoing, sustainable support to foster independent living, increase access to therapeutic services, bolster social connections, open doors to post-secondary education, invest in employment initiatives, research ways to improve quality of life, and much more. “All the things we’ve done over the years to raise money started not only with seeing how Mike developed, but also with understanding how important it was to help others,” Dan Marino said. “By teaming up with the Community Foundation, Claire and I want to ensure that individuals with Autism and their families continue to have access to the support and opportunities they need for generations to come.” The Community Foundation will work closely with the Marino family to ensure that grantmaking support from their new fund invests in innovative opportunities to make a lasting difference. The Community Foundation will safeguard the Marinos’ endowed fund, helping it grow through careful investment, so the Marinos’ grantmaking impact continues for generations. In addition, the public can continue to support the Marinos’ important mission by donating to their fund at the Community Foundation. For more information about the endowed fund, visit: www.cfbroward.org/danmarinofoundation . “We are honored to partner with Dan and Claire Marino to carry on the important mission of the Dan Marino Foundation through their endowed charitable fund at the Community Foundation,” said Community Foundation President/CEO Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, Ph.D. “For more than three decades, the Marinos have championed support for empowering people with Autism to live life to the fullest. Now they have ensured permanent, sustainable support to uplift families and shape brighter futures for generations to come.” With the establishment of the Dan Marino Foundation Fund, Dan and Claire join the Community Foundation’s “Community Builders” – visionary philanthropists who partner with the Community Foundation to transform lives and uplift our community by creating endowed charitable funds of $1 Million or more. The Dan Marino Foundation will be among the newest honorees recognized at the Community Foundation’s annual Community Builder Celebration, taking place at War Memorial Auditorium in Fort Lauderdale on Tuesday, November 10th, 2026. The Community Foundation now has 72 Community Builders, whose collective gifts exceed $170 Million, nearly half of the assets that fuel the Community Foundation’s grantmaking to local NonProfits. The Community Builders include dedicated individuals, families and community organizations who support innovation and tackle Broward’s big challenges with grants from their endowed funds that uplift our community. Through the Community Foundation’s careful stewardship, the principal of their endowment is invested and grows over time, providing a continuous and permanent source of support for charitable causes important to our Community Builders. By partnering with the Community Foundation for their philanthropy, Community Builders amplify their impact today and create a legacy of community support that never ends. About the Community Foundation of Broward: Founded in 1984, the Community Foundation of Broward partners with families, individuals and organizations to create personalized charitable funds that deliver game-changing philanthropic impact. 600 charitable funds represent $360 Million in assets, distributing more than $250 Million in grants over the past 40 years. The Community Foundation transforms our community through focused leadership that fosters collaboration, builds endowment, advances equity and connects people who care to causes that matter. The Foundation empowers visionaries, innovators and doers to create the change they want to see in the community we love. Visit: www.cfbroward.org . Michael Marino, Mary Partin, Clare Marino, and Dan Marino Jonathan Allen, Dan Marino, Burnadette Norris-Weeks, Jennifer O'Flannery Anderso, and Claire Marino Jonathan Allen, Mary Partin, Claire Marino, Dan Marino, Michael Marino, and Jennifer O'Flannery Anderson Previous Next

FPL Invites Schools To Apply For $50,000 Classroom Makeover Grant - Previous Recipient Hallandale Magnet High School In Hallandale Beach Used The Grant To Create An Aeronautical Aviation Lab South Florida Sun Times Nov 5, 2026 From Robotics Labs To Aviation Simulators And Hands-On STEM Learning Spaces, Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) Is Inviting Florida Schools To Apply For Its Classroom Makeover Grant Program, With 10 Schools Set To Receive $50,000 Each.  “FPL’s commitment to STEM education is reflected in our classroom makeover grants, which directly invests in student success,” said Kate Cotner, FPL Director of Community Engagement. “By providing classrooms with advanced technology and hands-on resources, we’re equipping teachers to inspire future leaders and innovators while creating pathways to careers that will power Florida’s future.”  The Classroom Makeover Grants are supported through a gift by NextEra Energy Foundation, a corporate foundation of NextEra Energy, Inc. and FPL, to increase the exposure of economically disadvantaged students in STEM and jumpstart students’ interest in STEM careers. Funds are available to update STEM classrooms with new technology or resources, including software, equipment, books and trainings for teachers.    Eligible K-12 public, private and charter schools at all grade levels that are designated Title 1 or serve a minimum of 40% economically disadvantaged students can apply, and winners will be announced in early 2027. Previous grant recipients in the Miami-Dade and Broward County area include:    • Cypress Run Education Center School in Pompano Beach updated its multi-media technology lab with new TV production equipment, coding and robotics materials.     • Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale created a brand-new STEM lab which includes new technology and tools.  • Coconut Palm K-8 Academy in Homestead created a new hydroponics lab.  • Hallandale Magnet High School in Hallandale Beach used the grant to create an aeronautical aviation lab which included new laptops and project tables. • Hialeah Gardens High School in Hialeah transformed their classroom into a fully equipped hospital simulation environment. Grant applications will be accepted through Friday, December 11th, 2026. For more information or to apply for a Classroom Makeover Grant, visit: www.FPL.com/Education .       Florida Power & Light Company        Florida Power & Light Company is America’s largest electric utility, delivering reliable power to more than 6 million customer accounts — serving approximately 12 million people across Florida. By leveraging a diverse energy mix, including nuclear, natural gas, solar and battery storage, FPL operates one of the most fuel- and cost-efficient power generation fleets in the U.S. and has earned the ReliabilityOne National Reliability Award for seven of the last ten years. FPL is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE), which is one of the largest electric power and energy Infrastructure companies in North America and is a leading provider of electricity to American homes and businesses. NextEra Energy is also the parent company of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is advancing America’s energy future with one of the largest and most diverse portfolios of power generation and Infrastructure solutions. For more information about NextEra Energy companies, visit these websites: www.NextEraEnergy.com . Or: www.FPL.com . Or: www.NextEraEnergyResources.com . Coconut Palm K-8 Academy in Homestead transformed its STEM education after winning an FPL STEM Classroom Makeover Grant for the 2024-25 school year. Hallandale Magnet High School in Hallandale Beach elevated its STEM education after winning an FPL STEM Classroom Makeover Grant for the 2024-25 school year. Previous Next

Get Wild, Get Messy And Get Creative At The Museum Of Discovery And Science This Fall South Florida Sun Times Sep 17, 2026 Get Ready To Explore Wildly, Create Boldly And Discover Differently This Fall At The Museum Of Discovery And Science (MODS). From stepping inside the colorful world of renowned Wildlife Artist Charley Harper and getting ooey-gooey with Messy Science, to dreaming, creating and testing with MAGNA-TILES, MODS is filling the season with hands-on experiences that turn curiosity into discovery. September kicks off with the debut of the immersive I AM WILD: A Charley Harper Exhibit, inviting guests to explore nature through famed Artist Charley Harper’s iconic bold colors, playful geometry and distinctive artistic lens. The month also brings Messy Science Weekends, Association of Children's Museums (ACM) and Nickelodeon’s Our World: Worldwide Day of Play 2026, and a buy-one-get-one admission offer during Broward Attractions & Museums Month. In October, imagination clicks into place with the debut of The Original MAGNA-TILES Experience, a new traveling experience created by MODS that will launch locally before traveling to museums nationwide. The month culminates in a milestone evening as the Museum celebrates the 30th Annual Wine, Spirits & Culinary Celebration. “Discovery at MODS begins with curiosity and comes to life through play,” said Joseph P. Cox, President and CEO of MODS. “This fall, guests of all ages can explore nature through an artist’s eyes, get messy with science, test ideas through hands-on experimentation and use creative play to make meaningful connections with the world around them. Whether interpreting a Charley Harper image or building something entirely new, every experience is designed to inspire learning through play, spark curiosity and encourage discovery.” I AM WILD: A Charley Harper Exhibit Friday, September 18th, 206 – Monday, January 11th, 2027 Experience the natural world through bold colors, playful geometry and hands-on experiences with the artwork of Renowned Wildlife Artist Charley Harper in I AM WILD: A Charley Harper Exhibit, presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and in partnership with Brightline and Florida Prepaid College Savings Plans. Guests can explore six distinct habitats, create their own Harper-inspired artwork at The Art Studio, interact with multisensory interpretations of his iconic work in the Interactive Habitat Poster Kiosk, play hide-and-seek among animals in The Woodland Ball Run and much more. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/IAMWILD . Broward Attractions & Museum Month Tuesday, September 1st, 2026 - Wednesday, September 30th, 2026 September is Broward Attractions & Museums Month (BAMM). Mention BAMM at the MODS box office to receive a free adult or child ticket with the purchase of a regular adult ticket. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/BAMM . Messy Science Weekends in September Saturdays: 10:00 a.m.– 5:00 p.m. | Sundays: 12:00 p.m.– 5:00 p.m. Science is about to get seriously messy! Dive into a slimy, ooey-gooey adventure as guests investigate the science behind textures, mixtures and reactions through hands-on experiments. Meet animal ambassadors that dig, crawl and slime their way through life and discover why sometimes the messiest experiments lead to the biggest discoveries. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/messyscience . ACM and Nickelodeon's Our World: Worldwide Day of Play 2026 Saturday, September 26th, 2026 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. As part of Messy Science Weekends, MODS joins the Association of Children’s Museums and Nickelodeon for Our World: Worldwide Day of Play, to fill the Museum with even more active adventures, creative challenges and hands-on science. Guests can make Oobleck and elephant toothpaste, create bubble slime paintings, join coding dance parties, investigate Everglades soil, build catapults, make slime, encounter animal ambassadors, embark on a virtual panther prowl and experience the explosive live KaBoom Show. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/dayofplay . The Original MAGNA-TILES Experience Friday, October 9th, 2026 – Monday, January 4th, 2027 Get a first look at the new traveling MAGNA-TILES Experience, created by MODS, debuting locally before traveling to museums nationwide. The Original MAGNA-TILES Experience invites learners to dream big, build boldly and put their ideas to the test while exploring magnetic forces, engineering and creative problem-solving. Through hands-on challenges and open-ended play, guests can investigate how magnets attract and repel while transforming their ideas into buildable creations. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/magnatilesexperience . Dream, Create & Test Weekends in October Saturdays: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Sundays: 12:00 p.m.– 5:00 p.m. Watch imagination click into place during special weekend programming inspired by The Original MAGNA-TILES Experience. Guests can tackle fresh build challenges, experiment with magnetic forces and discover how creativity, engineering and problem-solving come together through play. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/dreamcreatetest . 30th Annual Wine, Spirits & Culinary Celebration Friday, October 23rd, 2026 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Raise a glass to 30 years of exceptional cuisine, fine wines and philanthropy at MODS. Presented by Bank of America, the 30th Annual Wine, Spirits & Culinary Celebration marks its pearl anniversary while honoring Founders Steve Halmos and Keith Koenig. Guests can enjoy the Honoree Pearl Reserve Cocktail Hour, VIP and Grand Tasting experiences, Beer Garden, Food Truck Experience and an after-party beneath MODS’ iconic Great Gravity Clock. Proceeds benefit MODS’ STEMobile outreach programs, bringing hands-on science education into the community. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/30wine . Baby's First Halloween Saturday, October 31st, 2026 Make baby’s first Halloween a celebration of discovery! Baby’s First, presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, creates memorable first experiences through themed stories, sensory-rich exploration, helpful parent tips and a festival photo booth perfect for capturing the moment. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/babysfirst . About the Museum of Discovery and Science Opened in 1977 as the Discovery Center, today the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) is at the forefront of science education, innovation and exploration. MODS connects people to inspiring science, providing STEM education and cultural experiences for 450,000+ visitors annually in the 150,000 Square Foot facility. MODS is a 501 (c)(3) Non-Profit Organization that has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) for three decades. MODS has added to that distinction by being named Broward’s Hub for Resilience Education by the Board of the Community Foundation of Broward, selected by the LEGO Foundation as one of only 21 museums nationwide to join the Playful Learning Museum Network and awarded the prestigious 2023 IMLS National Medal for Museum Service. The Museum welcomes visitors from all walks of life. The Museum hours are Monday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. MODS is located downtown at 401 SW Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information about the Museum, please visit: https://mods.org . Or call: (954) 467-MODS. (954) 467-6637. Like us or follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/modsftl X (formerly Twitter): www.x.com/modsftl Instagram: www.instagram.com/modsft l Guests get hands-on with ooey-gooey experiments during Messy Science Weekends, exploring the science behind textures, mixtures and reactions. Photo courtesy of MODS. Get a sneak peek at The Original MAGNA-TILES® Experience at MODS. Bold colors and playful geometry bring the natural world to life. Previous Next

Hollywood Native Serves His Country From Across The World Thu Mar 28 2024 16:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)