Just Breathe! Wed Dec 01 2021 05:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Delray Beach Playhouse Expands Summer Season With Two Musicals Aventura Digest Mar 16, 2026 The Delray Beach Playhouse Is Making This Summer Bigger Than Ever With The Announcement Of Two Full-Scale Musical Productions As Part Of Its Summer Musicals At The Delray Beach Playhouse Series — Marking The First Time The Theater Has Presented Two Summer Musicals In One Season. The Main Stage will come alive with the Broadway classic 42nd Street from Friday, August 21st, 2026 – Sunday, September 13th, 2026, followed by the high-energy jukebox musical Beehive: The 60s Musical from Thursday, September 17th, 2026 – Sunday, September 27th, 2026. Tickets went on sale as of Friday, February 27, with prices starting at $45. “We’re excited to expand what we offer during the summer months,” said Kevin Barrett, Executive Director of the Delray Beach Playhouse. “Adding a second musical allows us to reach more audiences, involve more artists, and continue our commitment to bringing vibrant live theater to the community year-round.” 42nd Street, featuring music by Harry Warren and lyrics by Al Dubin, with a book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble, is one of Broadway’s most beloved tap-dance spectaculars. Filled with dazzling choreography and iconic songs like We’re in the Money, Shuffle Off to Buffalo, and 42nd Street, the show celebrates the magic of show business and the thrill of chasing dreams under the bright lights. Immediately following, Beehive: The 60s Musical, created by Larry Gallagher, will transport audiences through the unforgettable music of the 1960s. Featuring hits made famous by artists such as The Supremes, Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin, and Tina Turner, the show is a joyful, high-energy tribute to the women who defined a generation of music. Both productions will take place on the Playhouse Main Stage, continuing the theater’s long tradition of bringing quality musical entertainment to the Delray Beach community. Tickets and information are available at: www.delraybeachplayhouse.com . Or by calling: (561) 272-1281. About Delray Beach Playhouse Located on scenic Lake Ida in Delray Beach, Florida, the Delray Beach Playhouse is one of South Florida’s most beloved cultural destinations, producing a wide variety of theatrical experiences including musicals, plays, cabaret performances, children’s theatre, and educational programs. Dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the community, the Playhouse has been entertaining audiences for decades with professional-quality productions in an intimate setting. Previous Next

Public Adjuster PICC has settled 50,000 homeowners claims since 2001 Mon Dec 13 2021 05:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Labor Day T.R.A.V.E.L. Tips For Those Traveling With A Loved One With Dementia South Florida Sun Times Aug 27, 2025 As Millions Of Americans Prepare For End-Of-Summer Getaways This Labor Day Weekend, The Alzheimer’s Foundation Of America (AFA) Is Advising Caregivers Taking A Trip With A Loved One Who Has Dementia To Follow The T.R.A.V.E.L. Tips So The Journey Is As Smooth As Possible. “Whether you’re taking a road trip or a flight, there are preparations and adaptations caregivers should make to make the trip as smooth as possible for their loved one living with Dementia,” said Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, AFA’s Senior Director of Educational and Social Services. “During a busy holiday travel weekend with packed roadways and crowded airports, it’s especially important for families to be proactive and prepared.” AFA recommends taking the following Dementia-friendly T.R.A.V.E.L. tips: Time the travel properly. Plan the travel mode and the timing of your trip so the level of anxiety and stress for your loved one is minimized. Incorporate the person’s capabilities and needs when deciding on arrangements. Anything unfamiliar, such as a place, environment, or change in schedule can be overwhelming for someone with Dementia. Try to preserve the person’s routine and support them through changes. Reduce stress and anxiety. If travelling by mass transit, familiarize the person beforehand, in keeping with their understanding, with what will happen at security checkpoints. This can reduce potential anxiety. Avoid overscheduling. It is tempting to schedule many activities and experiences during a trip, but this might overstimulate someone living with dementia. It could potentially cause confusion, agitation, or anxiety. Build in downtime so the person can rest and recharge. Take regular breaks on road trips for food, bathroom visits, and rest, and try to avoid rush hour. Value quality over quantity. Focus on spending quality time together rather than on the number of sites, attractions, and activities you can fit in. Explore traveler assistance. If flying, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers assistance with the screening process to air travelers with certain medical conditions, including dementia-related illnesses; Contact the TSA Cares Helpline at least 72 hours prior to your flight to learn more. Advise the airline that you are traveling with someone who has dementia, request early boarding, and inform them about any special needs your loved one has. Leave prepared for contingencies. Bring snacks, water, activities, and comfort items (i.e., a blanket or the person’s favorite sweater), as well as an extra set of comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing. Be sure to bring important health and legal-related documentation, a list of current medications, and physician information with you. Caregivers who have questions about traveling with someone who has a dementia-related illness can speak with a licensed social worker through the AFA Helpline by phone: 1 (866) 232-8484. By text message at: 1 (646) 586-5283. Or webchat at: www.alzfdn.org . The helpline is available seven days a week. About Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is a Non-Profit organization whose mission is to provide support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias nationwide, and to fund research for better treatment and a cure. Its services include a National Toll-Free Helpline: 1 (866) 232-8484 staffed entirely by licensed social workers, caregiver support groups, educational programs and publications for caregivers, dementia-care training for healthcare professionals, the National Memory Screening Program, and more. For more information about AFA, call: 1 (866) 232-8484. Visit: www.alzfdn.org - Or connect with us on: Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, or LinkedIn. AFA holds Charity Navigator’s top 4-star rating. Previous Next

Veteran's Day Barbeque At Hollywood's TY Park By Ira Liebowitz, Former Staff Sergeant, US Air Force November 17, 2022 Share From about 12:00 p.m. Noon until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 11th, 2022 the City of Hollywood hosted its Annual Veteran's Day Barbeque at TY Park before about 150 US Veterans, their families and guests. Said Hollywood Mayor Josh Levy, "I'd like to start today by thanking all those among us who, despite the risk and sacrifice, raised their hand to serve and defend this beautiful country-our Veterans, Active Duty Service Members, Guardsmen and Reservists. Your service has helped keep our country and its citizens safe and free!" The mayor added, "Let's also take a moment to acknowledge those families of Service Members and Veterans who help shoulder the weight of war and the burdens of sacrifice. To the mothers, fathers, spouses and children of our Military Men and Women, thank you. Your love, support and resilience are the backbone of this nation and that must never be forgotten." The holiday festivities have been a tradition since initiated in 2011 by then Mayor Peter Bober. It had been disrupted during 2020 and 2021 because of the Pandemic. And it almost had to be nixed this year due to Hurricane Nicole that at the last minute on Thursday veered north to Vero Beach, sparing the City of Hollywood. For that reason, those arriving under the cap of 400 invited to reserve a seat were smaller than anticipated, though those who attended appeared to have a delightful time. Mayor Levy thanked the members of the Hollywood Police Department, Fire and Rescue Department, the American Legion and VFW for attending the event. He also thanked his colleagues on the Hollywood City Commission who attend each year, representing Hollywood's 153,000 residents. He said that more than 5,000 Vets from World War 2 through Afghanistan and other theaters reside in Hollywood, Florida, more than 80 of whom are City Employees. Notably, the Commission recognizes our Veterans at the start of each City Commission Meeting, he said. The Mayor included a brief history lesson of Veteran's Day. It began in 1918 after the Great War, once thought to "end all wars." It is celebrated on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month and first was known as Armistice Day and made a legal holiday in 1938. After other wars ensued, in 1954 "Armistice" was changed to "Veterans" to honor all Veterans. Here are a few guests who attended: My name is Galee Levine. I am the daughter of Leon Levine. My father was in the US Army and was a Lieutenant. He served his country with his heart and soul. All the Veterans that served our country deserve our utmost respect. Galee S. Levine -- RN Leon served during WWII. Helen Chervian from Brooklyn New York - United Neighbors Association honors Joe Chervian Air Force/Uncle and Brother Bonnie Ogden from Hollywood, Florida said she'd been a nurse during the Vietnam era. She enjoyed the barbeque. Pam Burgio - Hollywood Hills Civic Association. "Love our Veterans!" Mayor Levy ended his speech with poignant words: "As Americans, let's never lose sight of the meaning of today. May we always show respect for our American institutions, extend a lending hand to our neighbors and commit ourselves to making our communities across this great nation a place for all to strive for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness... Let us make sure that no Fallen Soldier or Sailor, Coast Guardsman, Marine or Airman, shall have died or have been wounded in vain. We must remember them, honor them and we do that by not only extending to them our thanks and support, but also by living our lives as a free people!" < Previous News Next News >

Fifteen Ways: Aventura Residents Can Celebrate Earth & Arbor Day, Everyday By Joyce R. Forchion - LOVE Aventura April 25, 2024 Share Meteorologists and environmentalists alike would argue that the effects of global warming and rapid climate change have produced a series of unprecedented events. Since 2023, scientists measuring ocean heat have produced astoundingly high, record-breaking temperatures that continue to reflect the globe’s warmest year on record. Off-season thunderstorms continue to ravage California’s scenic landscape while a 4.8-magnitude earthquake shocked a New Jersey suburb that rattled most of the Northeast coast. Aventura has always been known for its beautification efforts and commitment to preserving its natural habitat. However, recent events taking place within the city limits– such as the repositioning of the Aventura Community Green Garden, along with the rare sighting of an enormous crocodile strolling down North Country Club Drive last month– have forced residents to reframe the way in which we think about our natural habitat. With Earth Day and Arbor Day approaching on Monday, April 22nd and Friday, April 26th, respectively, families can rest assured that environmental sustainability continues to remain a citywide priority as leaders will host its annual Earth and Arbor Day Celebration at 10:00 am on Friday, April 26th, 2024 at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. For those seeking a more personal approach to incorporating Earth-friendly practices into their households and daily routines, here’s a list of 15 steps individuals can take to become more accountable as socially responsible neighbors and global citizens. 1. Alter your energy plan as soon as possible. Residents and professionals find themselves spending a small fortune to heat offices and condos during the spring and summer months, but rates can be adjusted based on special provisions to consolidate resources. Remember to turn off the lights and electronic devices when not in use. 2. Gather your family to attend one of the public parks and facilities in the neighborhood. A listing of venues, depending on your desire to go for a stroll, play a game of softball, or enjoy a water splash pad, can be found at the following link: https://www.cityofaventura.com/219/Parks-Facilities. 3. Take a moment to clean up plastic in the neighborhood and make sure these items are discarded properly. 4. Plant a tree in honor of Arbor Day or a loved one who has transitioned. 5. Create a home-based garden on a windowsill or balcony. Before proceeding with this suggestion, check with your community manager to see if any policies or mandates need to be followed. 6. Reduce, reuse, RECYCLE, and spread the word! 7. Conserve water at any given opportunity. Reduce your time in the shower and running water to wash your hands, cook, and clean. Plus, drink more each day! 8. Alter your diet and pivot to healthier alternatives– including fruit and vegetable offerings– to reduce your carbon footprint. 9. Embrace walking and avoid driving when possible, especially within a 2-mile radius. 10. Utilize the Aventura BCycle Bike Share Program, Freebee ride share service, or carpooling to do your part in preventing fossil fuel emissions. 11. Donate to a South Florida-based botanical garden and financially support its events on an annual basis. 12. Compile recipes containing plant-based ingredients to increase your intake of nutrients promoting optimal health. 13. Filter your homes with house plants! Turn off the air conditioning system and open your windows, letting the breezes of spring fill your rooms. 14. Unplug from your mobile phone, laptop, and other portable devices and plug into the benefits of nature. Savor your surroundings and the beauty of living in the moment. 15. Attend your next Aventura Commission Meeting to express your concerns regarding environmental sustainability, or sign up to volunteer for one of the related Advisory Boards addressing these issues, such as the Community Service Advisory Board. The City of Aventura will continue to promote its ongoing GO Green campaign, which urges departments, businesses, and residents to embrace environmental sustainability practices by reducing costs, conserving energy, and maximizing natural resources. For more information regarding the City’s upcoming event honoring Earth Day and Arbor Day, visit the following website: https://www.cityofaventura.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=483. LOVE, AVENTURA. A column celebrating the heart, soul and culture of our community. < Previous News Next News >

Dealing With Grief During The Holidays: This Time Of Year Can Be Extremely Stressful For survivors Of Loss By Tracy Renee Lee November 23, 2023 Share As the holiday season approaches, many survivors will find that their anxiety levels are rising. The anticipation of these important dates can weigh heavily, and survivors need to make an effort to balance holiday cheer with their battle for grief recovery. Yearning for the deceased is natural, especially during the holidays. An excellent practice to curb the pain of these events is to bring your decedent into your holiday celebrations. Doing so eases the yearning and helps you to feel as though you are honoring your loved one through inclusion. For example, you might consider serving your loved one’s favorite dish at dinner, and those around the table could share a memorable experience centered on the deceased's life. If someone has one of your loved one's special recipes, they might be invited to bring it to the celebration along with a printed recipe card for those in attendance. Each year, on my mother’s birthday, I share her favorite candy with my family and friends. I usually bag the candy and attach a photograph of my mother. On the back side of the photograph, I pen an interesting fact about my mother’s life, along with an invitation for my friends to share something about her with me, if they would like to, the next time I see them. At Christmas, I hang a Christmas ornament on our tree with a photo of her as a child on one side and a photo of her as an adult on the other side. Each year I add a new ornament, and when the time comes, I shall pass these treasures of familial history along to her grandchildren. These little traditions help me remember my mother and keep her involved in our family moving forward. They also relieve my stress and calm my yearning for her during these special times of the year. Consider creating a few of your own observances for the holiday season that will help you include your loved one and relieve the underlying tensions that might be building. Doing so might significantly improve your holiday experience. My name is Tracy Renee Lee. I am a Certified Grief Counselor (GC-C), Funeral Director (FDIC), Published Author, Syndicated Columnist, Podcaster and Founder of the “Mikey Joe Children’s Memorial” and Heaven Sent, Corp. I write books, weekly bereavement articles, Podcasts, and Grief BRIEFs related to understanding and coping with Grief. I am the American Funeral Director of the Year Runner-Up and recipient of the BBB’s Integrity Award. It is my life's work to comfort the bereaved and help them live on. < Previous News Next News >

Hit the Road & Lost Illusions: The International Film Series Continues August 12, 2022 Share In the next installment of The Aventura International Film Series Panah Panahi makes a striking feature debut with this charming, sharp-witted and deeply moving comic drama, Hit the Road. This film takes the tradition of the Iranian road-trip movie and adds unexpected twists and turns. It follows a family of four as they drive across the Iranian countryside. Over the course of the trip, they bond over memories of the past, grapple with fears of the unknown, and fuss over their sick dog. Unspoken tensions arise and the film builds emotional momentum as it slowly reveals the furtive purpose for their journey. The New York Times reported “In real life, you might not want to be stuffed into a car with these people — and let’s not forget their dog, Jesse — on a dusty stretch of Iranian highway, but from the first jokey moments of Hit the Road until it's heartbreaking end you will not want to be anywhere else.” Not rated, the film is shown in Persian with English subtitles. The Aventura International Film Series presented by the City of Aventura is curated and hosted by Shelly Isaacs who introduces the film and leads a post-screening discussion. Screenings are general admission with the lobby doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the auditorium at 7 p.m., Tuesday, December 13. Lost Illusions Lucien de Rubempré (Benjamin Voisin) is an ambitious and unknown aspiring poet in 19th century France. He leaves his provincial town, arriving in Paris on the arm of his admirer, Louise de Bargeton (Cécile de France). Lucien soon discovers that the written word can be an instrument of both beauty and deceit when another young writer, Etienne Lousteau (Vincent Lacoste), introduces him to the business of journalism where a salon of wordsmiths and wunderkinds make or break the reputations of actors and artists with insouciant impunity. The New York Times reported, “Lost Illusions, Honoré de Balzac’s novel of Parisian literary life, stands as a stellar example in its period and now, thanks to Xavier Giannoli’s invigorating screen adaptation, in ours as well…Balzac was a prodigious coffee drinker, and the movie, though its characters run on champagne and schadenfreude, is nothing if not caffeinated.” Not rated, the film is shown in French with English subtitles. The Aventura International Film Series presented by the City of Aventura is curated and hosted by Shelly Isaacs who introduces the film and leads a post-screening discussion. Screenings are general admission with the lobby doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the auditorium at 7 p.m, Tuesday, January 10. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: https://www.aventuracenter.org/ - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

'Stress Tipping Point': Almost 9 Million Floridians Are Approaching That Level March 14, 2024 Share In an in-depth survey conducted by www.CardRates.com - a 'Stress Tipping Point' has emerged as a key concern among Americans grappling with personal financial pressures. The term captures a critical threshold where the accumulation of financial obligations leads to overwhelming Stress levels, threatening people's Mental Well-Being. The survey engaged with 3,000 respondents across the nation who are managing ongoing financial commitments. It uncovered that 2-in-3 Floridians (66%) are on edge about nearing a 'Stress Tipping Point,' a state where the burden of their financial responsibilities surpasses their ability to cope effectively, potentially causing Severe Psychological Distress. This equates to a staggering 8,782,594 adults in the Sunshine State. This compares to a national average of 65%. Reinforcing these concerns, recent figures from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York indicate a sharp rise in total financial obligations, which climbed to $17.06 Trillion in 2023 - a 4.15% increase from the previous year, signaling a trend that could accelerate the approach towards this 'Stress Tipping Point.' The phenomenon appears to be geographically uneven, with Vermonters reporting the highest instances of Financial Strain that could lead to such a tipping point. A staggering 83% feel their circumstances are becoming unmanageable – this represents approximately 328,000 Vermonters. Conversely, Idahoans have reported less susceptibility to this tipping point, though the 25% who do still represent a considerable portion of the community – around 289,000 people. The survey also probed into the wider social effects of approaching a 'Stress Tipping Point,' revealing that personal relationships are becoming collateral damage to Financial Unease. Personal Finance Stresses often have a profound impact on relationships, as the constant worry and tension over money matters can lead to frequent conflicts and a breakdown in communication. The strain of financial instability can overshadow the joy and trust in partnerships, fostering an environment of uncertainty and resentment that challenges the very foundation of relationship bonds. Moreover, the ripple effects of Personal Finance Stresses extend beyond intimate relationships to impact family and friends as well, with 66% of respondents admitting their Stress has had an impact on their family and friends. On a scale of 1 to 10, the average confidence level in managing financial stress hovers at a concerning 6/10, hinting at the uncertainty many feel about their ability to stave off the 'Stress Tipping Point.' Daily worries about financial matters are a reality for 17% of those surveyed, further indicating the pervasive nature of this issue. In the face of these challenges, a proactive stance is still prevalent, with an encouraging 82% of participants actively seeking out solutions to circumvent reaching their 'Stress Tipping Point.' Tips For Managing Money Stress While Financial Stress can be overwhelming, there are effective strategies to manage it and prevent it from taking over one’s life and affecting personal relationships. • First and foremost, gaining Financial Literacy is crucial; understanding the basics of budgeting, saving, and investing empowers individuals to make informed decisions. • Open communication about Financial Struggles, both with family and a Financial Advisor, can alleviate the burden and pave the way for practical solutions. • Setting Realistic Financial Goals and creating a clear plan to achieve them can provide a sense of control and direction. • Additionally, practicing Mindfulness and Stress-Reduction techniques, such as Meditation or Exercise, can help Maintain Emotional Balance. By taking these proactive steps, individuals can not only navigate their financial challenges more effectively but also preserve and strengthen their cherished relationships. "As our latest survey reveals, this 'Stress Tipping Point' represents more than just a fiscal benchmark; it's a critical indicator of Societal Well-Being. Our findings call for a collective effort to address and mitigate the factors contributing to this widespread concern,” says Ashley Fricker, Senior Editor with: www.CardRates.com < Previous News Next News >

Back-To-School Savings: Your Comprehensive Guide To Florida's Sales Tax Holidays January 11, 2024 Share Florida gears up for an annual event that has become a crucial window of opportunity for savvy shoppers—the Back-To-School Sales Tax Holiday. These designated periods offer consumers the chance to snag essential items without shouldering the burden of Sales Tax, helping families save significantly on their Back-To-School Shopping. With the 2024 Tax Holiday currently underway until the 14th, here's everything you need to know to make the most of these advantageous periods. 1. What Items Qualify For Exemption?: During the Back-To-School Sales Tax Holiday 2024 starting on Monday, January 1st, 2024 and ending on Sunday, January 14th, 2024, specific categories of items enjoy Exemption from Sales Tax and these include: • Clothing, Footwear And Accessories: Priced at $100 or less Per Item. • School Supplies: With a Sales Price of $50 or less Per Item. • Learning Aids And Jigsaw Puzzles: Valued at $30 or less. • Personal Computers and Related Accessories: For Non-Commercial Home or Personal Use, up to $1,500 Per Item. • A comprehensive list of exempt items is provided by the Florida Department of Revenue including: Personal Computers, School Supplies like Pens and Notebooks, Clothing Items, and Learning Aids. For more items on the list, visit: www.floridarevenue.com 2. Exceptions To The Exemption: It's important to note that items exceeding the specified price limits will not qualify for the Tax Exemption. For instance, if a single item costs more than $100 for clothing or $50 for school supplies, it will not be eligible for the Tax-FREE Benefit. 3. No Limit On Quantity: Unlike some promotions that cap the number of discounted items, the Sales Tax Holiday Exemption is based on the sales price of each eligible item, not the quantity purchased. Shoppers can leverage this advantage without any restriction on the number of qualifying items. 4. Understanding Learning Aids: The term "Learning Aids" encompasses various Educational Tools, such as: Flashcards, Memory Games, Puzzle Books, Interactive Educational Toys and more. These aids, priced at $30 or less, fall under the Tax-Exempt category during the Sales Tax Holiday. 5. Items Not Covered: Certain items do not qualify for the Exemption, including: Clothing exceeding $100, School Supplies above $50, Learning Aids exceeding $30, Books not otherwise Exempt, Computers exceeding $1,500, items for Commercial Purposes, Rentals, and more. 6. Mixed Purchases: When purchasing a package containing both Taxable and Tax-Exempt Items, Sales Tax must be calculated on the entire package or set, even if it contains qualifying items. 7. Special Offers: Promotions like: "Buy One, Get One FREE" or "Buy One, Get One For A Reduced Price" cannot be averaged to meet Exemption Criteria. The total price of the items determines their Tax Status. 8. Online Purchases: Online Purchases qualify for Exemption if the order is accepted by the company during the Sales Tax Holidays, regardless of the delivery date. 9. Refunds For Tax Errors: In case a seller mistakenly charges Sales Tax for an Exempt Item, customers can request a refund from the selling dealer. If unresolved, reporting the issue to the Department of Revenue is an option. 10. Responsibility And Additional Information: The Florida Legislature establishes the Sales Tax Holidays and the items eligible for Exemption. For inquiries about specific items or additional information, consumers can contact the Florida Department of Revenue directly. The 2024 Florida Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday presents an excellent opportunity for consumers to save on essential purchases for the upcoming school year. By understanding the qualifying items, limitations, and terms of the Exemption, shoppers can make informed decisions to maximize their savings during these designated periods. For a comprehensive overview of all Tax Relief Holidays outlined by House Bill 7063, including their respective timeframes, consumers can refer to the Florida Department of Revenue's website for printable calendars and detailed information: www.floridarevenue.com Remember to plan ahead, make a list of necessities, and take advantage of this cost-saving opportunity. Your preparation can translate into significant savings while ensuring a smooth transition back to school. For a complete list of qualifying items visit: https://floridarevenue.com/backtoschool/Pages/default.aspx < Previous News Next News >

A Gastronomic Adventure Awaits: Emeril Lagasse's Three Chef Experience Is Happening In Broward April 25, 2024 Share While April showers bring May flowers, the spring season also brings South Florida diners a host of delectable dining experiences at the state-of-the-art Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen at Arc Broward, from a festive taco-and-tequila-themed dinner in time for Cinco de Mayo, to bold barbecue and a multi-course gastronomic adventure, all in support of Arc Culinary’s mission to transform the lives of students with disabilities through the culinary arts. “At Arc Culinary’s exceptional Chef Experiences, guests can savor some of South Florida’s best food prepared by talented chefs in an incredible setting while making a real difference in the lives of children and adults with disabilities,” said Julie Price, Arc Broward CEO. “You won’t find another dining experience quite like it – one that feeds the soul and transforms lives while you dine.” In time for Cinco de Mayo, the four-course Tacos & Tequila Fiesta on Friday, May 3th at 7:00 p.m. will feature Tequila-based drinks paired with a menu featuring the flavors of Mexico, including Red Lentil Tacos in a fresh Yuca Tortilla, a vegan delight served with creamy Guacamole and a sprinkle of house-made toasted Chocolo Powder; Taco Pollo Al Pastor with succulent Grilled Chicken, Onions, Cilantro and Grilled Pineapple nestled in a soft Corn Tortilla; Taco De Birria accompanied by a side of rich Birria Consomme, Onions and Melted Cheese; and a dessert trio of Concha, Flan and Lime Paleta. Get a head start on barbecue season with the Memphis Style BBQ Bash on Friday, May 17th at 7:00 p.m., featuring four mouth-watering courses that include: Southern Comfort Barbecue Pulled Pork Sliders with a Blue Cheese and Jalapeño Slaw and Onion Rings; Smokey Memphis-Style Barbecue Chicken with a creamy Mac and Cheese; Memphis-Style Barbecue Ribs served with Southern Cheesy Grits; and Southern Peach Shortcake Oatmeal Crumble. Alcoholic Beverages are included. The month wraps up with a Gastronomic Adventure on Thursday, May 30th at 7:00 p.m. that features a first course of Caesar Salad with House-Made Caesar Dressing, Fresh Baked Garlic Croutons and Parmesan, followed by Mussels, Scallops and Calamari prepared in a delicate Broth of Coconut and Saffron; Roasted Rack of Lamb served with Purple Potato Mash and Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts with Rum-Infused Almonds; and a dessert course featuring Tropical Fruit Gateau. Wine is included. A combination of mid-century classic and modern elegance, Arc Culinary's Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen is a hidden gem in Sunrise, featuring a Chef’s Table, a living plant wall, refined décor and lighting, a moveable glass wall, sophisticated seating and an outdoor patio. In addition to Chef Experiences, the venue hosts cooking classes and private events and provides off-site catering. Arc Culinary is a mission-driven social enterprise of Arc Broward that is reshaping the culinary landscape by providing real-world experience and training for children and adults with disabilities through its nationally accredited Entry-Level Culinary Arts Certificate Program and the state-of-the-art Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen that serves more than 1,200 people annually. Every dish crafted by Arc Culinary is a testament to the transformative power of embracing inclusivity. The revenue generated directly supports children and adults with disabilities, ensuring they receive the critical programming needed to thrive. Each Chef Experience offers two different ways to partake: the Chef’s Table, where guests can interact with our talented chefs, and communal seating. Chef’s Table tickets are $99 per person; communal seating tickets are $89. Prices include: Gratuity and Alcoholic Beverages, either Beer, Wine or Tequila-Based Drinks based on the menu). Chef Experiences at Arc Culinary are sponsored by Amazon. The Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen at Arc Broward is located at 10250 Northwest 53rd Street, Sunrise, Florida 33351. To purchase tickets, please visit: www.arcculinary.com/chef-experience-dinners/ - For more information, visit: https://arcculinary.com/ - Or call: (954) 299-7515. < Previous News Next News >

Nova Music Festival Exhibition In Miami Recalls The Horrors Of October 7th By Linda Chase and Alan Goch - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 When visitors explore the immersive “Nova Music Festival Exhibition: October 7th 6:29 a.m. — the Moment Music Stood Still” now open at the Greenwich Studio in North Miami, the horrific realities of that dreadful day suddenly come to life. As you enter the exhibition, the timeline noting 6:29 is reflected on the floor near your feet. This is the precise time that rockets fired from Hamas were noticed in the sky. After entering the installation, visitors walk through a painstakingly, carefully created meticulous timeline complete with information, evidence and emotion from that morning. Four hundred of the 4,000 festival attendees were among the 1,200 Israelis murdered on October 7th. Charred remains from cars, bullet riddled portable toilets, clothes hanging on lines (including a pair of pants showing a hole where a festival goer was shot in the groin), tents, camping gear, as well as “Lost and Found” tables containing personal items such as shoes and toiletries, add to the authenticity of the exhibition. Interwoven among the remnants are actual videos taken by festival goers, as well as body-cam footage taken by Hamas Terrorists. Video testimonies featuring survivors, family members and responders are also featured in the exhibit. Several of the individuals who did survive are on site to share both their physical and emotionally-scarred experiences. Ofir Amir, who is still recovering after being shot in the leg by Hamas Terrorists, is one of the Founders and Producers of the SuperNova Music Festival. He also founded the Tribe of Nova Foundation. During our visit, Ofir explained why he created the nonprofit. “The goal of the foundation is to assist people impacted by the atrocities of the festival massacre by creating a community-based imitative that both empowers and heals. This includes financial aid, social integration, commemorative events, medical treatments, long term rehabilitation and therapy for both survivors and their families. All donations raised by the exhibition supports the Tribe of Nova Foundation and goes towards the healing journey of the survivors and their families. The foundation also memorializes the murdered victims and shares their stories.” “The exhibition originally premiered in Tel Aviv only weeks following October 7th. As founders of the exhibition, our objective was to create a powerful and educational exhibit that allows visitors to bear witness to the horrors that occurred at the Nova Festival.” Survivor Idan Itzhaki was very emotional as he recalled how something so special went so wrong. “I went to the festival with two friends. There were so many people dancing and celebrating. I was so happy and at 6:29 people started to panic and something beautiful turned into a nightmare.” During our conversation, Idan tearfully revealed that one of his friends is still missing. “I’m sharing my story in the hopes that people in Israel who need support will find it through my words.” After witnessing the brutality of the Nova Music Festival, the exhibit concludes with a large healing room. The space is intended for visitors to find solace after bearing witness to the harrowing events of the festival. Hanging high and bright in this sanctuary are the words “We Will Dance Again.” These inspiring words remind visitors that there’s life beyond the terror. It is also the space where the survivors recounted their experiences. The exhibition is located at Greenwich Studios, 12100 Northeast 16th Avenue and will be on display until mid-February. For more information, visit https://www.novaexhibition.com/about-the-exhibit Previous Next