Fun-Filled & Family-Friendly - The Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Series To Wow Audiences Of All Ages South Florida Sun Times Jun 26, 2025 Summer Starts A Brand New Adventure With The Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Imagination Series At The Broward Center For The Performing Arts And The Parker. The Fun-Filled, Family-Friendly Productions Celebrate Beloved Television And Film Stars From The Past, Together With Today’s Favorites, That Bring Exciting Adventures To Life For Children Of All Ages. “Every day we are making an impact on the lives of our patients,” said Caitlin Stella, CEO of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. “Sponsoring this series broadens our reach by allowing us to bring enriching and educational experiences, that support overall healthy development, to children in our community.” On Thursday, July 3rd, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the South Florida Symphony Orchestra present the 40th Anniversary of the iconic film, Back to the Future, with “Back to the Future in Concert” as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. The audience will want to recharge the flux capacitor before enjoying this epic smash hit. The 1.21-gigawatt blockbuster topped the 1985 box office chart, spawned two wildly successful sequels and stamped an enduring imprint on pop culture. Marty McFly, Doc Brown and a time-traveling DeLorean come together for the adventure of a lifetime as they travel to the past, present and future, setting off a time-shattering chain reaction that disrupts the space-time continuum. Fans old and new will experience the thrill of “Back to the Future” like never before, on a hi-def screen, accompanied by the South Florida Symphony Orchestra performing award-winning composer Alan Silvestri’s dazzling musical score live in sync with the film. Audiences are in for an exclusive treat with nearly 20 minutes of brand-new music added by Silvestri to the film's score. Ticket holders are encouraged to arrive early at the Broward Center to party like it’s 1985, with a real DeLorean photo op, classic ‘80s arcade games and a rad soundtrack of the decade’s greatest hits before the orchestra takes the stage. It’s a pre-show blast from the past audiences won’t want to miss. It's time to enter the multiverse during “Ninja Kidz Live: Infinite Possibilities” in the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center on Sunday, July 6th, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. The Ninja Kidz are leaping out of the screen and into Fort Lauderdale with their first ever Ninja Kidz live action adventure, filled with audience participation, physical challenges, games and epic battles. What happens when two worlds collide? The audience holds the key to shape how each adventure unfolds with an infinite number of possible outcomes. The audience will laugh, cheer and determine destiny, one choice at a time. A VIP package may be added to any ticket, which includes a pre-show Q&A session with the Ninja Kidz. Get ready to PAW-ty like never before during the fantastic new “PAW Patrol Live! A Mighty Adventure” presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and VSTAR on Saturday, August 16th, 2025 and Sunday, August 17th, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. in the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. After Chase, Marshall, Skye and the gang save Adventure City with their Mighty Pup Powers, it's time for the pawsome-est street party ever during this all-new stage production. When supervillain scientist Victoria Vance feels left out of the festivities, she unleashes her latest invention to crash the party and steal the spotlight for herself. Can the Mighty Pups, armed with their super-charged powers, outsmart Victoria to ensure Adventure City's biggest bash goes off without a hitch? It'll take the power of paw-sitivity and mighty teamwork to foil her plans and keep the party pumping. With heroic action, catchy tunes and barkloads of interactive fun, PAW Patrol's electrifying new adventure is sure to leave tails wagging and the audience cheering. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Very Important Pup V.I.P. package includes a premium seat, access to meet and take a photo with PAW Patrol characters after the show and an exclusive souvenir item. The audience is invited to make music with Blippi in the Broward Center’s Au-Rene Theater on Saturday, September 27th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. during the brand new live “Blippi: Join the Band Tour!” as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. Blippi will be joined onstage by Meekah, their singing and dancing buddies and live musicians to explore what makes music, including sounds, rhythms and instruments, through all the favorite Blippi hits. The audiences will want to grab some drumsticks, tune up the guitar and move those feet with Blippi during this musical performance that's fun for the entire family. “Gabby's Dollhouse Live!” Presented by Walmart comes to the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center on Saturday, October 11th, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. This live adaptation of the smash hit Netflix TV show brings a fun new sprinkle-filled adventure, live on stage. In this a-MEOW-zing show, Gabby unboxes a special acorn that needs the magical touch of a rainbow to grow. But when CatRat causes a color cat-astrophe and breaks the rainbow, Gabby and the Gabby Cats must find the colors again to set things right. “Gabby's Dollhouse Live!” Presented by Walmart brings to life an original story featuring incredible puppets, dynamic staging and songs that will have the audiences singing and dancing along from beginning to end. This show is presented by Terrapin Station Entertainment and TEG Life Like Touring, in association with Universal Destinations and Experiences. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. A Cat-tastic VIP experience is available for add-on which includes admission to “Gabby’s Dollhouse Live!” Cat-tastic VIP pre-show party featuring coloring, stickers, temporary tattoos and other hands-on fun. Actors from the DreamWorks Animation series do not appear in the live stage show. This musical adaptation of Dav Pilkey’s “Dog Man” spin-off series, “Cat Kid Comic Club,” comes to the Broward Center’s Amaturo Theater on Sunday, November 2nd, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. This performance is produced by the iconic team that brought audiences “Dog Man: The Musical.” The story follows Cat Kid and Molly Pollywog who started an epic club to teach 21 rambunctious baby frogs how to make their own comics. Their fishy father, Flippy, is overjoyed that his kids will learn to unleash their creativity. When the frogs’ constant bickering and outrageous imaginations send their comics comically off the rails, Flippy flips out. Will the club survive? Will the frogs ever get along? Will creativity finally save the day? All will be answered in this madcap musical based on Dav Pilkey’s irreverently hilarious book series. “Cat Kid Comic Club” features a book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila and music by Brad Alexander, the team that created “Dog Man: The Musical.” This performance is recommended for ages five years and older. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Performance Project present “Seussical” on Friday, December 5th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 6th, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. Tony winners and legendary writers Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, from the likes of “Lucky Stiff,” “My Favorite Year,” “Once on This Island” and “Ragtime,” have lovingly brought to life the most recognizable Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and a little boy with a big imagination – JoJo. Colorful characters transport the audience from the Jungle of Nool to Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. The power of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant. This show features the talents of The Performance Project students and the adult professional actors who mentor them. Audiences are invited to join the cast for a post-show meet and greet. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center's AutoNation Box Office. Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster and their friends from “Sesame Street” are coming to town on Sunday, December 14th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at The Parker as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. During “Sesame Street Live! Elmo & Friends Say Hello,” the audience will sing, dance and play alongside their favorite furry friends, all while following Elmo's puppy, Tango, in a fun game of hide-and-seek. Audiences will want to put on their dancing shoes and head down to where the air is sweet for this all-new celebration on Sesame Street. Please be advised that this show contains flashing lights, haze (fog) and confetti. Everyone in the theater must have a ticket, lap tickets are available for purchase at The Parker Box Office for children 12 months and under. A post-show VIP photo experience and meet-and-greet ticket add-on is available for purchase. Featuring whimsical puppets and live performers in a sweeping oceanic adventure, “The Pout Pout Fish” is a musical underwater adventure that will turn the poutiest of frowns upside down on Sunday, February 1st, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. When Mr. Fish sets out on a quest to find Miss Clam's missing pearl, he discovers there is more to him than his permanently plastered pout. This vibrant, toe-tapping musical follows Mr. Fish, a pouty fish who believes he's destined to spread gloom and doom. With the help of his ocean friends, Mr. Fish discovers that spreading joy and kindness is a much better way to live. This colorful adaptation of the New York Times bestseller is co-conceived, directed and designed by the acclaimed puppeteers of AchesonWalsh Studios, whose work was featured in Broadway's “The King And I,” “On the Town” and Radio City's “New York Spectacular.” The writing team includes New Victory LabWorks Residency recipients Christopher Anselmo, Jared Corak, Matt Acheson and Fergus Walsh. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. It's an unforgettable adventure when a beloved children's book springs to life on stage with “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical” on Sunday March 22 at 1 p.m. at The Parker as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. This delightful production features vibrant songs, energetic dancing and whimsical puppets, ensuring a joyous experience for kids and adults alike. The playfully adored story unfolds as the alphabet letters ambitiously climb the coconut tree, only to tumble down in a cascade of color and laughter. With plenty of audience interaction and lively performances, this show is a fantastic way for children to explore sound, rhythm and reading in a fun, engaging spectacle. This Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series is not offered by subscription. New events will be added to the series throughout the 2025/2026 Season. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - And: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222. And in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. The Parker is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. The Broward Center’s 2024/2025 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. Previous Next

Which Way To The Stage: A Playful Yet Profound Modern Relationship Comedy January 31, 2024 Share The biggest performances are the ones we put on for each other. Just ask Broadway superfans Jeff and Judy, the stars of Island City Stage’s Which Way to the Stage. This modern relationship comedy by Ana Nogueira shares the story of the two who eagerly await their idol Idina Menzel after her performance in If/Then at the stage door every night. But when a sexy stranger enters the scene and upends their decades-long friendship, the musical theater aficionados have to go off book to rewrite their own finale. Find out what happens when friendship and ambition collide and when dreams fall just out of reach. Tickets are on sale now for the show which runs through February 11th. Set in 2015, Which Way to the Stage follows outspoken best friends since college Jeff and Judy who are regulars at the stage door and take pride in their vast knowledge of the theater. Aspiring performers themselves, the duo soon face the music inadvertently by revealing the insecurities underneath their carefully constructed facades. As new relationships are formed and the story digs deeper, so does the insightful examination of gender, sexuality, and drag. Do the two ever meet their idol? Can they reconcile their differences of opinion? And what happens next? Ana Nogueira is a Brooklyn-Based Writer and Actress. Which Way to The Stage had its world premiere at MCC Theater in New York City. The play was chosen for the 2019 Kilroy’s List and the Pacific Playwrights Festival at South Coast Rep, where Nogueira was the recipient of the Elizabeth George Emerging Playwright Commission. In 2016, her play Empathitrax premiered Off Broadway at Here Arts Center with the critically acclaimed theater company Colt Coeur, where she is a company member. Her work has been developed at Second Stage, The New Group, SPACE on Ryder Farm and Barrington Stage. Nogueira Co-Wrote and starred in the Short Film We Win, which premiered at the 2018 SXSW Film Festival and won Best Screenplay at the Rhode Island Film Festival. Her acting credits include Bob And Carol And Ted And Alice (The New Group); Engagements, Mala Hierba (both at Second Stage); Bump (Ensemble Studio Theater); Knives And Other Sharp Objects (The Public/LAByrinth); and three seasons on the Starz series Hightown. She is a proud alumnus of the Obie Award-Winning playwriting group Youngblood at Ensemble Studio Theater. Which Way to the Stage is directed by Michael Leeds and stars Matthew Buffalo (Jeff), Sofia Porcel (Judy), Clay Cartland (Mark) and Gaby Tortoledo (Actress/Bachelorette/Casting Director). Which Way to the Stage is sponsored by Co-Producers Russell Vance and The Bears of South Florida, Set Sponsors William Sandrik and Henry Smith, and Lights and Sound sponsor Scott Bennett. Additional funding provided by the following: The Our Fund Foundation, The Schubert Foundation Inc., The SHS Foundation, The Maval Foundation, The Warten Foundation, FlockFest, the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council, and by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts and Culture and the State of Florida. Island City Stage’s 12th Season opened with sold out performances of Love! Valour! Compassion! Other shows this season include Pulp by Patricia Kane; Music by Amy Warren & Andre Pluess with lyrics by Patricia Kane from April 11th – May 5th; Skintight by Joshua Harmon from May 30th – June 23rd and Die! Mommie Die! by Charles Busch from August 29th – September 22nd. Tickets for Which Way to the Stage start at $40. The show runs for two hours and five minutes with one intermission. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.islandcitystage.org - Call: (954) 928-9800. Or email: boxoffice@islandcitystage.org . Follow Island City Stage on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/IslandCityStageFL - And on Instagram at: @islandcitystage1. About Island City Stage Founded in 2012, Island City Stage is a professional theater committed to sharing stories of universal interest, engaging diverse audiences with entertaining, challenging, and inspiring productions and programs, often exploring the LGBTQ+ Culture. These shows are brought to life on stage through the talents of professional artists whose credits include Broadway, Off Broadway, national tours, major regional theaters, film and television. Island City Stage offers an intimate setting with six rows of stadium seating to foster a feeling of inclusion and participation in each theatrical event. Island City Stage is a 501 (c) 3 NonProfit Organization. It is located at 2304 North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, Florida 33305. For tickets and more information, please call: (954) 928-9800. Or visit: www.islandcitystage.org < Previous News Next News >

Make Valentine’s Day Special With Designer Eyewear & Fragrances February 3, 2023 Share Love will be in the air this Valentine’s Day - so shopping early and being ready is a great thing, but even if you're a last minute shopper the experts at Brand International Perfumes can help you find the perfect gift and even gift wrap it! With February 14th coming closer, there is one place you have to make a stop at - to look around and get inspiration from all the romantic gift-giving ideas they have in store. Jacqueline and her team at Brand International Perfumes have gotten into the romantic spirit, they are extending savings right through the end of February on fragrances and eyewear! The friendly staff will help you find the perfect fragrance or gift set for your loved one and while you're shopping they will assist you with finding a fragrance for yourself as well. We all know that finding that new signature scent or a gift for the special people in your life can be a challenge, so why not take all the guesswork out of it and let the professionals help you. This Valentine’s Day Sale will have you smelling great and you can knock out your shopping at the same time, win win! With many of us trying to avoid driving to multiple locations to save on gas. Brand International Perfumes is the one stop for bargains and designer eyewear & fragrances. They have certainly earned the reputation for being the place to go for fragrance gifts for every member of the family and you can guarantee that there will be plenty of convenient parking. You may also be interested in out-of-stock or hard to find fragrances from your favorite designers. The supply chain issue hasn’t affected Brand International, they have all the modern and hard to find fragrances you are looking for at discounted prices. In addition to designer fragrances, you can find some new designer eyewear for that special someone. When it comes to trendy fragrances and fashionable eyewear, nobody has the selection and quality that Brand International Perfumes in Hallandale Beach does. From the time you walk in, you are greeted by the most knowledgeable and friendly team that Jacqueline Kels has put together. This sale will have you smelling great. The fragrance experts at Brand International can help you find that scent that defines you, all at huge discounts. Plus while you are at Brand International, selecting your perfect scent, check out the fabulous designer eyewear and sunglasses. They can even gift wrap your purchase! At Brand International Perfumes this month they will be hard at work to bring you big savings, owner Jacqueline Kels and her knowledgeable staff are making it easier than ever to shop for your special scent and designer eyewear. Jacqueline and her staff have quite a selection of fashionable eyewear in the latest styles. When it comes to frames - everyone is searching for that perfect look that fits their personality. Maybe you saw someone wearing a style that you felt would look great on you - or flipping through a magazine - that pair of glasses happened to be just what you were looking for. Come by and Jacqueline will help you with your selection. “What we want to give our customers is a great selection at lower prices and something that everyone will notice,” Jacqueline explained. “Your eyes are so important - and we make it easier than ever for you to come in, bring your prescription and we will find the perfect frame and will have you looking and feeling great about yourself.” You don’t need to be a fashion expert to find eyeglass frames that look great on you. From designer brand name sunglasses to those frames that everyone is talking about, Brand International has it all - and there is really no reason to drive all over south Florida. Among the trendy frames that everyone is wearing these days - include: Vera Wang, Prada, Chanel, Dolce, Burberry, Oakley, Ray-Ban, Dior, Tiffany, Versace and many more. So with the vast selection of trendy eyewear and thousands of brand name perfumes, the staff will be able to help you find exactly what you are looking for. When it comes to having the best deals, with savings on perfume sets to designer brand name sunglasses, there is really no reason to drive all over. With the guidance from her late husband, Elliot, Jacqueline has put her own signature into this very popular business, creating a vision that both had some years ago. A Large Selection Brand International Perfumes prides itself on getting anything the customer wants. If it is still out there, if it is still being made, Jacqueline will get it. Even if it’s not being made and very hard to find, she probably has it. Living by Elliot’s motto: “If you can’t find it, we may have it.” This is certainly a destination that shoppers head to. The Lowest Prices Around It’s not often that you can purchase quality fragrances at such discounted prices. At Brand International Perfumes, high-end items that go from $150, $200, $300 retail - such as Creed, Flower Bomb by Victor & Rolf - are not found in most discount perfume shops, but Jacqueline carries them at significant discounts, along with the other big names - such as Dolce & Gabbana and Thierry Mughler's to name a few brands. Brand International Perfumes’s customer service is second to none. Come on by and check out top names such as: Maison Francis, Kurkdjian Paris, Amouage, Montale and Juliette Has A Gun to name a few. They are open 7 days, with over two decades of experience Jacqueline and her staff can fit your style and your budget. Brand International Perfumes is located at 121 Northeast 3rd Street, Hallandale Beach Florida 33009. If you don’t have time to stop by the store, give Jacqueline a call at: (954) 457-1969. OUT OF STATE: 1-800-689-1969. Chances are, you will find your favorite fragrance at a tremendous savings. WE SHIP UPS ALL OVER THE USA! < Previous News Next News >

“What’s The Story, Wishbone?” - Heartwarming Documentary Brings Beloved PBS Series To A New Generation Aventura Digest May 20, 2026 On The 30th Anniversary Of Wishbone, Novel Tails In Association With Loud Pictures, Brings Audiences Across North America The Charming Documentary “What’s The Story, Wishbone?” Directed by Joey Stewart (“Wishbone,” “The Night of the White Pants,” “The Seventh Day,” “Walker, Texas Ranger”), the documentary pulls back the curtain on how a small dog with a big imagination brought classic literature to life for millions of kids earning television’s highest achievements the Peabody Award as well as multiple Emmy Awards, and a loyal fanbase around the globe. Featuring the writers, cast and the voice of Wishbone, alongside the creators behind the show, the film explores the ambition, chaos, and lasting impact of one of the most unique children’s series ever made. Watch the trailer at - https://vimeo.com/1178568392 - ahead of the films debut airing on Public Television Stations (formerly known as the Public Broadcasting Service) Wednesday, May 27th, 2026 through Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 – a perfect return home, before it’s TVOD/Digital release on all platforms where you can rent or buy movies across North America on Wednesday, June 10th, 2026. “On the 30th anniversary of Wishbone, I’m excited to pull back the curtain on how this little show became a real cultural phenomenon. I made this film to celebrate its impact and reconnect the audiences who grew up with it in a meaningful way,” states Director Joey Stewart. This incredible behind-the-scenes look at the beloved PBS series that turned classic literature into must-see TV, became a cultural phenomenon for a generation. Featuring rare archival footage, behind-the-scenes stories, and commentary from voices including Mo Rocca (“Bewitched,” “The Good Wife”), George W. Bush, and Dan Rather, as well as Creator/Executive Producer Rick Duffield, Producer Betty Buckley (Emmy and Peabody award winning producer & Founder of Women in Film Dallas) the Voice of Wishbone Larry Brantley (veteran voice actor), Head Writer Stephanie Simpson (BAFTA winning writer of animated series “Arthur,” “Hilda,”), Wishbone’s Trainer Jackie Kaptan, Cast Mary Chris Wall (“Criminal Minds”), Angee Hughes (“Scrubs”),Jeanne Simpson (“Joan of Arc”), Matt Tompkins (“Frankenstein”), Production Designer Chris Henry (“Talk Radio”), Costume Designer Steven Chudej (“Raising Arizona”), Makeup & Hair Designer Gigi Coker (“Eight Men Out”), Post Production Supervisor Mike Losurdo Jr. (“Sea Warriors: The Royal Navy in the Age of Sail”),and Visual Effects Supervisor Caris Turpin (“Howard the Duck”). “For most of my professional life I have been asked the question, “What was it like working on Wishbone?” After 30 years I can finally say, watch this film,” states Producer & Voice of Wishbone Larry Brantley. The documentary shares how the series captured the imagination of audiences—and why it’s influence still resonates decades later. The film offers a uniquely personal perspective on the making of the show. “What’s The Story, Wishbone?” clocks in at just under 90 minutes from the team who helmed the original award-winning series – directed by Joey Stewart (“Wishbone,” “The Night of the White Pants,” “The Seventh Day,” “Walker, Texas Ranger”), produced by Betty Buckley (Emmy and Peabody award winning producer & founder of Women in Film Dallas), Joey Stewart, Larry Brantley (veteran voice actor and the voice of “Wishbone”), Stephanie Simpson (BAFTA winning writer of animated series “Arthur,” “Hilda,” and writer of “Wishbone”). Producer Betty Buckley shares “Producing Wishbone was such a joy in every way. Revisiting this iconic series and reflecting on the experience that inspired a love of reading in children is something I’m incredibly excited to share with audiences.” Originally airing in the mid-1990s, Wishbone reimagined classic works of literature through the adventures of a Jack Russell Terrier, introducing a generation of kids to stories ranging from Sherlock Holmes to The Odyssey. This documentary revisits the creative team behind the series and reveals how an ambitious idea became a lasting cultural touchstone. Through the voices of the writers, directors, producers, and cast, this film explores how it all came together—and how something that felt chaotic at the time ended up meaning so much to an entire generation. Find the film in your market or your preferred platform at: www.whatsthestorywishbone.com and follow the film on Instagram: @thewishbonedocumentary. And on Facebook: @wishbonedocumentary. About Novel Tails: Novel Tails is an independent production banner founded by filmmaker Joey Stewart, along with Betty Buckley and Larry Brantley, focused on character-driven storytelling with a nostalgic and cultural lens. The company develops and produces original documentary and narrative projects designed to connect with audiences across generations. Visit: www.noveltails.com About Loud Pictures: Loud Pictures is a Dallas-based production company specializing in commercial, branded, and narrative content, known for its collaborative approach and strong visual storytelling. Visit: www.loudpictures.com Previous Next

Half Of Americans Feel More Comfortable Using AI In Their Finances Now, Compared To A Year Ago South Florida Sun Times May 22, 2025 (BPT) - New Research From Empower Explores How Americans Are Seeing The "AI Advantage" With Nearly Half Of Americans (47%) Feeling More Comfortable Using The Tool In Their Financial Lives Compared To A Year Ago. Some 56% of people say they would use AI to recommend money moves to plan for retirement, provide tips to consolidate debt 58% and help with budgeting 54%. Importantly, 62% of Americans value the human component of financial advice, especially for significant financial decisions like investing. Many Americans see AI as a powerful tool to complement human expertise in financial decision-making: 61% say they would use AI alongside human financial advisors to achieve better results. AI at work AI is becoming a regular part of the modern workplace, with 58% of Americans currently using AI tools in some capacity while on the job. Among these users, 60% rely on AI mainly for writing and other content-generation tasks. While AI adoption is growing, more than a third, 34% say they do not use AI at work. Others are uncertain about their company's policy on AI usage at the office, 38%. AI is indispensable for some - 28% of Americans, including 29% of Millennials and 27% of Gen Z, can't imagine working without these tools. But there is hesitation around adoption: Only 15% of Americans have received AI-specific training at work and 14% avoid AI altogether due to fears it may one day replace their job. Gen Z employees are leveraging AI to support their professional growth and workplace readiness: Over half of them, 52% use AI tools to build or edit their resumes, streamlining the job application process. Nearly half of Gen Zers, 47% use AI to prepare for important presentations, while 43% rely on it to practice for job interviews. Methodology: The Empower "AI Advantage" study is based on online survey responses from 1,009 Americans ages 18+ fielded in December 2024. Previous Next

Chanukah Festival 2022: Annual “Fried & Ribo” Event Hits South Florida November 17, 2022 Share In honor of Shnas Hakhel, the Biblical Year of Gathering, Chabad of South Broward is going all out with its Annual Chanukah Festival, hosting together for the first time in America, the dynamic duo of Avraham Fried and Ishay Ribo, who will be bringing their magical Annual Chanukah Show to the shores of Miami. For the first time, the 7,000 seat Seminole Hard Rock Concert Hall in Hollywood, Florida, will be the venue of the Annual Chanukah Concert hosted by Chabad of South Broward, led by Executive Director, Rabbi Raphael Tennenhaus. The Concert will feature the dynamic duo of the two greatest contemporary Jewish singers from Israel and the United States, Avraham Fried and Ishay Ribo. The two share a close bond and will be singing together one week before, at the Annual Chabad Hosted “Tzamah” Event at Binyanei Haumah in Yerushalayim. Avraham Fried Avraham Shabsi Hakohen Friedman better known by his stage name, Avraham Fried, a popular musical entertainer in the Orthodox Jewish Community. Fried was encouraged towards a music career by Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Rebbe of Lubavitch and by Mordechai Ben David. Fried began his career with the release of his first album "No Jew Will Be Left Behind" in 1981. The title song was composed by Yossi Green and the song “Kel Hahodaos” was written by Kol Salonica. Fried went on to collaborate with Green on eight albums. Green is credited with some of Fried’s biggest hits, including “Aderaba,” “Tanya” and “Didoh Bei.” His music is mostly categorized as Pop Jewish Music, similar to Mordechai Ben David and tends to integrate many styles of popular music, including: Pop, Rock and Jazz with Jewish lyrics and themes. He also has a few “cantor” style songs on most of his albums, as well as many songs written in Yiddish. He sings his Yiddish songs with a Chabad flavor. Ishay Ribo Ishay was born and raised in France and at the age of 13 he began writing songs, composing and recording them in his home. He learned to play the guitar at 18. In 2014, he launched his debut album, "Tocho Ratzuf Ahava," which was certified Gold for selling more than 25,000 copies in Israel. At the same time, the song "Kol Dodi" reached the number one spot for Israeli Religious Radio Stations. Ishay has collaborated on singles and performances with prominent Israeli artists, including: Shlomo Artzi, Idan Raichel and David D'or, as well as famous Jewish Musicians: Avraham Fried, Yaakov Shwekey, Mordechai Ben David, Yonatan Razel, among others. Ishay Ribo participated in the three "Tzama" project albums, which showcase Chabad melodies. In 2016, he released his second album, "Pachad Gvahim," which also achieved Gold album certification. At the same time, Ishay also worked on collaborations with Composer Yossi Green, as well as a new single with Moti Steinmetz. He managed to break down sectarian walls on his way to the top, in his own way, by mixing a unique combination of spiritual influences, catchy and inspirational Western melodies and his one-of-a-kind, soft voice. This has made Ribo one of the most prominent and beloved young artists in the Israeli Music Scene, with millions of YouTube views and his third album "Shetah Afor" that become one of the most intriguing on the charts. The Dynamic Duo For the last five years, Fried and Ribo have been hosting a 12,000 person joint Chanukah Concert in Israel, night after night. The show was supposed to hit New York last winter but had to be canceled at the last minute due to the third wave of Corona and the lockdown in Israel. This year, for the first time ever, the two are heading out directly from the Israeli Concert to the shores of Miami. Flying together from Israel with an enormous team of 14 musicians and an entire staff of light and sound technicians, a production team, directors and stage managers, as well as the videographers and photographers. Rabbi Tennenhuas told numerous media outlets: “The Rebbe gave us a special Brachah for our Chanukah Festivals that they should continuously grow each year. We have merited to see the fulfillment of the Rebbe’s Brachah - over time; the event has attracted tens of thousands of participants. Inspired by the Rebbe’s call to initiate gatherings of Yidden in honor of Shnas Hakhel, this year we have gone all out.” Considering the enormous costs of the event this year, for the first time, tickets will be sold at various rates to accommodate the entire community and beyond. In addition, there are opportunities for sponsorships, with perks including front-row seats or couches, an ad in the program directory, a meet and greet with Ishay Ribo and Avraham Fried and a deluxe dinner before the festival. Tickets and sponsorships are available on the event website: www.Chanukahfestival.com < Previous News Next News >

The Workforce Isn't Burned Out. It's Grieving - How Job Loss, Role Erosion, And AI-Driven Instability Are Reshaping Risk, Identity, And Performance South Florida Sun Times Feb 11, 2026 Burnout Has Become The Default Explanation For Nearly Every Form Of Workplace Distress. It Gets Cited After Layoffs, During Reorganizations, And Whenever Motivation Drops Without An Obvious Cause. But Burnout No Longer Explains What People Are Actually Experiencing. Across industries, professionals are not depleted by effort. They are destabilized by loss. Loss of role. Loss of trajectory. Loss of trust in the basic contract that once made work feel coherent. This is not burnout. It is career grief. That distinction matters because when the diagnosis is wrong, every proposed solution misses the mark. People keep calling it burnout because the symptoms look familiar on the surface. Disengagement. Fatigue. A collapse in motivation. But the underlying mechanism is different. Burnout implies depletion from effort. It suggests that rest, time off, or a lighter workload will restore equilibrium. Career grief is not about effort. It is about loss. Loss of identity. Loss of continuity. Loss of confidence that investment will still be rewarded. You did not just lose a job. You lost coherence. Career grief shows up quietly at first. Motivation drops in ways that feel unfamiliar. Focus fragments. Confidence wobbles even in people with long track records of competence. The future starts to feel vague or threatening instead of challenging. People blame themselves. They assume they have lost resilience or ambition. They have not. Their nervous system is responding to instability exactly as it is designed to. The past few years have rewritten the effort reward contract that underpinned modern careers. For decades, the logic was simple. Work hard. Build skill. Stay relevant. Progress would follow. That logic no longer holds. Layoffs arrive without warning. Roles disappear overnight. Entire professions reshape faster than people can adapt. AI accelerates the pace and removes human buffering along the way. When predictability collapses, the nervous system does not interpret it as a professional inconvenience. It reads it as a threat. That is where career grief begins. This is not fear of hard work. It is chronic instability. When the ground keeps shifting, the body stays alert. Risk tolerance changes. Long term planning narrows. People become more cautious, more guarded, more reactive. Not because they lack courage, but because their system is trying to preserve safety. You see this everywhere once you know what to look for. High performers who hesitate to commit. Leaders who avoid decisive bets. Professionals who feel inexplicably numb toward roles they once wanted badly. These are not motivation problems. They are regulatory signals. Career grief is physiological. Loss registers in the body before it becomes a story in the mind. When identity and role dissolve without ceremony, the system adapts. It tightens. It pulls inward. It prepares for further loss. That is why mindset based advice falls flat. You cannot reframe your way out of a state your body is maintaining for protection. Optimism does not restore coherence. Hustle does not rebuild trust. Many people keep pushing anyway. They apply to more roles. They are up-skill. They optimize routines. They follow productivity advice with discipline and hope. None of it lands. Each failure deepens the sense that something is wrong with them. Nothing is. What is broken is the environment that once provided stability, pacing, and relational calibration. Work used to include human rhythm. Informal conversations. Shared stress. Feedback loops that regulated uncertainty. Much of that has disappeared. Automation removes friction. Remote structures thin micro interaction. Performance becomes abstracted from presence. The result is a system under constant cognitive demand with diminishing relational support. That combination erodes coherence. Career grief often masquerades as fatigue or disengagement. But listen closely to how people describe it. They say they feel unreal. Disconnected from their own momentum. Less invested in outcomes that once mattered. These are not the words of exhaustion. They are the language of loss. Grief does not resolve through rest alone. It resolves through meaning making and reconnection. Career grief is no different. The implications extend beyond individual wellbeing. Organizations feel this too. Teams carrying unresolved career grief show subtle but costly shifts. Trust thins. Collaboration slows. Conflict rises under pressure. Decision making becomes conservative or erratic. No performance framework compensates for that. AI intensifies this dynamic without presenting itself as the cause. Each tool promises efficiency. Each removes another layer of embodied competence or relational rehearsal. Over time, work becomes cleaner and lonelier. Faster and flatter. The nervous system absorbs the cost. This is not a call to reject technology. It is a call to recognize its side effects. Career grief requires a different response than burnout. It requires stabilization before optimization. People need environments that restore coherence. Clear roles. Predictable pacing. Human feedback. Shared processing of uncertainty. Most importantly, they need containers that hold transition without forcing premature reinvention. Grief has a timeline. When it is rushed or ignored, it hardens. People either disengage or cling to identities that no longer fit. Neither leads to growth. The people navigating this moment do not need motivational speeches. They need space to recalibrate. To rebuild trust in their own signal. To reestablish belonging before performance. Career grief does not mean you are failing. It means something you invested in has ended or fundamentally changed. Naming that truth is not weakness. It is orientation. Burnout language lets systems off the hook. Grief points to loss. And loss requires reckoning. When coherence returns, ambition often follows. Not the brittle kind driven by fear, but a steadier form rooted in clarity and self trust. That is how people re-engage. Not by pushing through grief, but by moving with it. Career grief is not the end of motivation. It is the beginning of recalibration. The sooner we stop calling it burnout, the sooner real recovery becomes possible. Owen Marcus Owen Marcus is the Founder and CEO of MELD. A pioneer in the field of men’s emotional health, his retreats, workshops, coaching, training and other programs serve to enhance relational dynamics as well as men’s personal and professional growth and leadership development. For nearly three decades, MELD has stood as a trusted guide for men navigating the complex terrain of modern life: stress, relationships, leadership, and identity. Marcus is also author of 'Grow Up: A Man’s Guide to Emotional Maturity. In it, Marcus leads readers along an enlightening path toward the authentic self, revealing the extent to which men need clarity, purpose, connection and the support of other men to thrive. A founding member of the United States Association for Body Psychotherapy (USABP) and a member of Division 51 of the American Psychological Association, Marcus integrates neuroscience, Polyvagal Theory, and somatic mindfulness to help individuals and groups cultivate emotional intelligence and authentic leadership. Previous Next

Shaping the Future: The City of Hollywood's Comprehensive Plan Update June 21, 2024 Share A comprehensive plan acts as a blueprint for the future, driving bold visions and long-term decision-making. These plans form the policy foundation for local planning and land use decisions, guiding municipalities in growth, development, and resource management. Since the last update, the City of Hollywood has seen significant growth and transformation. Population increases, economic shifts, technological advancements, and evolving community needs all necessitate an updated plan. State laws governing land use and planning have evolved. The updated plan will incorporate these changes, ensuring compliance with current legal requirements. The updated comprehensive plan will guide the City's growth and development through 2050, addressing emerging trends and challenges such as climate change, technological innovation, and demographic shifts. The updated plan will set clear strategic goals and initiatives in housing, transportation, economic development, environmental sustainability, and public services. These goals aim to promote equitable growth, enhance quality of life, and create opportunities for all residents. Robust community engagement is essential. The City will continue to seek input from residents, businesses, and stakeholders through public meetings, workshops, and other methods to ensure the plan reflects diverse perspectives and aspirations. Updating the City's comprehensive plan is crucial for shaping a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive future. The City is prepared to guide visionary growth and development through 2050. Active community engagement and a focus on strategic goals will make the plan a powerful tool for realizing our shared vision of a thriving City. Make plans to attend the Hollywood 2050 Project Launch & Public Workshop on Monday, June 24th from 6 to 8 p.m. at Boulevard Heights Community Center. For more information on the Hollywood 2050 Comprehensive Plan, please visit: https://city-of-hollywood-kimley-horn.hub.arcgis.com/ or connect via email at: hollywood2050@hollywoodfl.org . < Previous News Next News >

Hike Where The Wildflowers Bloom - Banff Sunshine Village In The Heart Of The Canadian Rockies By www.Newswire.com Jul 18, 2025 Banff Sunshine Village Is Excited To Welcome Guests Back To Sunshine Meadows, For Another Unforgettable Summer Season In The Heart Of The Canadian Rockies. Named The Number-One Day Hike By Lonely Planet, Sunshine Meadows Offers Accessible Sightseeing And Hiking For Nature Enthusiasts Of All Levels. Guests Enjoying Sunshine Meadows, Known For Its Postcard-Perfect Lakes And Stunning Wildflowers, Often Proclaim That They Traveled Back In Time As They Admire Untouched Nature And Infinite Mountain Views. Banff Sunshine's Summer Season Will Run From Friday, June 27th 2025 Through To Sunday, September 21st, 2025. With a large uncrowded parking lot, guests wishing to see the beauty of Sunshine Meadows this summer can access the Banff Sunshine Gondola from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily, with access to the Standish Chairlift from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. From the top of the Standish Viewing Deck - the highest lift-accessible sightseeing deck in Banff National Park, guests will be gobsmacked by the 360-degree beauty of the Canadian Rockies including views of Rock Isle, Laryx, and Grizzly Lakes. From the viewing deck, guests will be encouraged to choose their own adventure down - fly down in comfort on Standish Express, hike amongst the wildflowers and alpine lakes or walk down the meadow park trail. Unlike other hikes in the region, Sunshine Meadows is a true family-friendly experience, with easy-to-moderate hikes perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Open daily throughout summer, guests can catch a free shuttle bus from Banff or park in the resort parking lot. No reservation or pre booking is required to enjoy summer at Banff Sunshine Meadows. "Summer at Sunshine is truly a place of rare beauty. There are days I still pinch myself that something so beautiful exists. Escaping to Sunshine Meadows is the perfect reprieve from the hustle of modern life. My family and I love to stay at Sunshine Mountain Lodge, hike amongst the wildflowers, and soak in the night sky in the resort's hot pool," explains Kendra Scurfield, VP of Communications at Banff Sunshine Village. If you find yourself in Banff this summer, travel eight miles west of the town of Banff to enjoy the region's best kept secret: Sunshine Meadows. Hike where the wildflowers bloom and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of one of Canada's most iconic alpine landscapes. While there, stop by the resort's interpretive center to book an interpretive walk and to learn more about the unique ecosystem of Banff Sunshine Meadows. About Banff Sunshine Village: Perched at 7,000 feet (2,133 meters) above sea level, Banff Sunshine Village is nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park. Renowned for its all-natural snow, this world-class resort attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the globe during its impressive seven-month winter season, running from mid-November to late May. Come late June, the landscape transforms as summer arrives at Banff Sunshine Meadows, where Alberta's native wildflowers blanket hundreds of pristine, protected alpine acres in a vibrant display of color. From carving turns on Canada's Best Snow in the winter to hiking through breathtaking mountain meadows in the summer, Banff Sunshine offers an unparalleled year-round escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The resort remains open for summer operations until Sunday, September 21st, 2025. Previous Next

The Graveyard of COVID-19 Missed Information By Marilyn M. Singleton, MD, JD August 12, 2021 Share The CDC’s own analysis of COVID hospitalizations, showed that the risk of death while hospitalized, was 0.3% for patients with no comorbidities The British social hierarchy of the Middle Ages and beyond was divided into "three estates of the realm:" the king, the clergy and the commoners. More modern times, brought the fourth estate, the non-establishment, independent journalists. Our founders knew, that for a successful Democratic Republic, the press had to be a watchdog. Journalists now have become morticians, who embalm and bury stories at the bidding of their puppet masters. In many cases, the government with its media accomplices, quietly plucked from the public square information, that is not to their liking, irrespective of its factual accuracy. COVID-19 has brought the practice out of the shadows. With our health at stake, it is imperative that all sides of the science, are available. Let the people decide. Welcome to the cemetery. The PCR test used to diagnose an infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, was found to have as high as 97 percent of false positives for infectiousness, because the test was so sensitive, that it measured dead viruses that could not cause disease. Even the inscrutable Dr. Fauci, agreed with that assessment. After the Vaccines that were going to bring us back to the old normal, the CDC set strict rules for the testing of Vaccine "breakthrough" cases. It wanted "only specimens," that were collected with a PCR test, that was much less sensitive. Was this done to make the Vaccines look, more effective? It’s unlikely, anyone saw that the CDC, will soon abandon the PCR test. What a coincidence? A consortium backed by Bill Gates, bought out Mologic, a company with a yet-to-be-approved COVID test. Then there’s a CDC analysis, of infections and mask-wearing. "In the 14 days before the illness onset, 71 percent of case-patients and 74 percent of control participants, reported always using cloth face coverings or other mask types when in public." Only 4 percent of the case-patients "never" wore a mask. The explanation was that the masked case-patients, frequented restaurants and got infected, when they removed their masks to eat. The mainstream reporting of COVID-19 deaths is sensationalism, at its worst. The newscasts implied any infected person, would surely be on death’s door, at some point. Again, the CDC’s own analysis of COVID hospitalizations, showed that the risk of death while hospitalized, was 0.3% for patients with no comorbidities. The analysis showed that the strongest risk factors were obesity, Diabetes with a complication and anxiety disorders. Yet, we did not hear that we should lose weight and exercise. (How unfortunate, that the gyms were closed.) Our mental health was tested, by lockdowns and lack of socialization. Even French Virologist and Nobel Prize Winner, Luc Montagnier, was ghosted, when he posited that mass Vaccination against The SARS-CoV-2 Virus, during the Pandemic, was creating variants. His science appears to have been borne out. The CDC reported an outbreak in Massachusetts, where 90 percent of SARS-CoV-2 Infections were identified as the Delta variant. Moreover, 74 percent of the infected, were fully vaccinated. There are similar findings, in the United Kingdom and Israel. In another instance, 75 to 80 percent of recently infected Staff Members at two University of California, San Francisco hospitals were fully Vaccinated. The most devastating missed information, is the effectiveness of early treatment of COVID-19. Since February 2020, clinicians had successfully treated patients, early in the disease process with Hydroxychloroquine. A campaign to discredit these successes, has followed. When Dr. Fauci’s pet drug, Remdesivir was found to be ineffective, the media buried the study. Despite studies showing its benefits, Ivermectin and The Hydroxychloroquine Smear Treatments were given. Hydroxychloroquine and Ivermectin, are fully FDA-Approved, have a long record of safety and remain on the World Health Organization's List Of Essential Medicines. What’s the problem? They are very inexpensive and are generics. With early treatment sidelined, the experimental Vaccines became the Panacea. But why are we expected to ignore the RNA Vaccines’ role, in encouraging variants and serious side effects, such as heart inflammation, paralysis and death? Could money be a motivator? Pfizer reports, that it will have $33.5 Billion from COVID-19 Vaccine sales, in 2021, with even more revenue, being anticipated, from the Booster Shots. Was the Drug And Health Product Manufacturers’ $171 Million given to lobbyists in the last 6 months, be intended to ensure the government’s cooperation and are the pharmaceutical companies the Fifth Estate? The politicians’ hypocrisy says it all. In their personal lives, Nancy Pelosi and her nephew, California’s Governor Newsom, flaunt their own directives, being mask-less getting haircuts, going to fancy dinners and sending their children, to summer camps? More galling is, the "let them eat their cake," attitude in their political lives. Newsom demands, that all state workers, except the powerful prison guards union, get vaccinated or submit to continuous COVID-19 Tests. Pelosi commands her subjects, aka congresspeople, to don masks, subject to fines and arrests, for noncompliance. Her majesty, removes her mask for a photo op, so, how can anyone trust anything, these soulless, grifters have to say? Do some digging. The truth is out there. < Previous News Next News >

Be Part of The Celebration June 8, 2021 Share The Karmic ice-cream truck will be a part of the June 22nd celebration to pass out some delicious treats. Conviva Care Centers is having a celebration and you’re invited. Conviva Care Centers is a primary care center for seniors committed to aging well. They are reinventing excellence in healthcare with a simple idea - that meaningful patient relationships lead to better health outcomes. The team at each center has a unique goal in mind, for their patients to reach their fullest potential, while always feeling respected, understood and cared for. Success for each patient is measured with their patients' clinical outcomes and long term health. They best accomplish this success by forming a strong relationship with each patient as an individual, so they understand them, along with their individualized health needs. The relationship and understanding between patients and physicians, enables their approach to focus on lifestyle, prevention, allows their patients to maximize the time they spend focusing on their health, in and out of a clinical setting, to help them live their lives to the fullest. Conviva physicians are respected and established community physicians, dedicated to helping each patient live their best life. They are a team of professionals, that work together to create the gold standard of Primary Care for Seniors. A Little About the Team Yiliam Castillo, M.D., specializes in Internal Medicine. She holds certifications in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support and Basic Life Support as well as Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates, ECFMG Certification. Dr. Castillo completed an internal medicine residency at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital in Far Rockaway, New York, in 2020. She earned her medical degree from the Calixto Garcia School of Medicine of the Institute of Medical Sciences in Havana, Cuba, in 2007. Prior to her residency, Dr. Castillo served as a patient aide in Louisville, Kentucky. Yanayra Becerra Duque, M.D., is board certified in family medicine and holds certifications in Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support. At Conviva Hallandale, she leads a team of compassionate, patient-focused health care professionals with a dedication to medical excellence. Juan Emilio Rodriguez Linares, MSN, APRN, FNP-C. is a Family Nurse Practitioner at Conviva Hallandale, he provides compassionate, patient-focused primary care with a dedication to medical excellence. If you would like to find out more and meet the newest members of the care team, stop by on Tuesday, June 22nd, 2021 between 2:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m. to learn more about joining the Conviva family. While there, you will have a chance to meet Yanayra Becerra Duque, M.D., Yiliam Castillo, M.D. and Juan Emilio Rodriguez Linares, MSN, APRN, FNP-C. These care team members will be available to talk with you and answer any questions about the center. Also, the Karmic Ice-Cream Truck will be there to pass out, some delicious treats. Conviva Care Center in Hallandale in its new location is now accepting new patients. Visit anytime or call to schedule a tour at: (954) 456-5533. The center is located at 1740 East Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009, their hours are: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturdays & Sundays, the office is closed. ABOUT CONVIVA Conviva continues to reinvent excellence in healthcare by embracing meaningful patient relationships focused on producing optimal health outcomes. With more than 90 convenient locations throughout Florida (Broward County, Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, Miami-Dade County, Palm Beach County and Tampa/Gulf Coast) and Texas (Corpus Christi, El Paso and San Antonio), the vast community of Conviva Care Centers is comprised of a multi-disciplinary team of more than 300 Primary Care Physicians and over 800 Affiliated Specialists that provide a wide range of vital healthcare services that patients require daily, including the advantages of senior care activity centers and 24/7 on-call providers. The success of Conviva is measured by its patients’ clinical outcomes and long-term health benefits. To learn more, visit: www.ConvivaCareCenters.com Or call: (833) CONVIVA. < Previous News Next News >

An Unexpected Journey: Man Overcomes Devastation of War and Builds Thriving New Life in US May 26, 2022 Share Is it possible to overcome the turmoil of war and emerge with an unfailing optimism toward a better future? Somehow, through providence and sheer determination, that’s exactly what John Livens did. In his captivating true story, An Unexpected Journey, Livens recalls with remarkable detail the path that led him from his native, war-torn Latvia to a life well lived in the United States. Livens eloquently recounts his past, walking readers through his early years of privileged life in Latvia; appearing on the KGB’s wanted list at age 7; his father’s deportation to Gulag in Northern Siberia; the loss of everything during World War II and his resettlement in the United States. “My life shows that we as humans cannot always change or control our circumstances. We cannot anticipate all the obstacles in our path,” Livens writes. “We can, however, choose our attitude, our actions and how to overcome the obstacles we face. This will define our character, values and faith.” In his new life in the United States, he flies in the U.S. Navy, earns two degrees from Harvard and enjoys a rewarding career. Through it all, family is an ever-present element, undercurrents remind readers that tangible possessions and social standing are transitory and fleeting. What lasts is character, intellect and determination to seek a better future. Told with a strong voice and ethical code, An Unexpected Journey is a deeply profound, human story of survival, serendipity and resilience in the face of inconceivable upheaval and devastation. It’s also a potent reminder of the unlimited opportunities and freedoms that U.S. Citizens often take for granted. “The reason why the lights looked so much brighter, the colors more vibrant, the laughter more cheerful and the joy so much more intense was because I would have been denied the opportunity to experience this had it not been for the freedom and democracy of the United States,” Livens writes. “No wonder all this meant so much more to me.” About the Author John H. Livens was born in Riga, Latvia, in North-East Europe. He and his family (except for his father who perished in a Gulag) survived and escaped the Soviet/Russian Occupation in 1940. In 1950, the family came to the United States. With limited knowledge of English and having missed two years of school due to the war, Livens graduated from high school in six months, received a scholarship to Boston University and then transferred to Harvard College where he graduated, Cum Laude. Livens was encouraged to pursue an academic career but opted to go to the Harvard Business School. He received an MBA and spent several years as a U.S. Navy Officer flying different Aircraft Carriers. He enjoyed a rewarding business career as a partner of a prestigious Boston investment management firm and later as the president of a small investment firm. He is now retired. < Previous News Next News >