Changing The Lives of Students: A Pathway Through Education To Economic Success June 6, 2024 Share In July 2022, Cristo Rey Miami High School opened in North Miami and will serve over 400 students by 2025 across 9th-12th grades. Cristo Rey Miami is the 39th member of a nationwide network of private, Catholic schools utilizing an innovative educational model that combines rigorous academics with professional work experience. It is the only college-and-career preparatory high school in Miami exclusively providing hard-working students from families with limited resources a clear pathway through education to economic success. The Cristo Rey Network are the only high schools in the nation to offer four years of rigorous college-prep academics combined with professional work experience through its Corporate Work Study Program. The Miami High School location is the only college-and-career preparatory school in the South Florida community exclusively serving hard-working students from low-income families. The Corporate Work Study Program enables students to earn and pay for more than half of their tuition, gain valuable job experience, and prepare for future employment. How The Corporate Work Study Program Works: • Students work in a professional corporate environment five days each month to earn a majority of their tuition and gain valuable experience for life after college. • Students are transported to and from their work sites. • Students must attend a three-week Summer Success Institute, a job training/school prep program. During Cristo Rey Miami’s founding 2022-23 school year, Cristo Rey Miami students earned over $500,000 toward their education working at 18 partner companies. Cristo Rey Miami’s student population is a reflection of Miami’s diverse community and its immediate neighboring area - 48% Haitian, 30% Black and 22% Hispanic, with an average family household income of $37,000 (family of 4). For students tuition ranges from $100 - $750 annually based on each family's income, 30 - 40% of tuition is covered through one of the Florida Tax Credit Scholarships, 10% is covered by the contributed support of donors, and families contribute to the cost of education based on financial ability. “By providing high-quality, college-preparatory education, particularly for underserved communities, Cristo Rey Miami High School is changing lives,” said Griffin. “I am honored to support its innovative integration of academics with work experience to empower students with the skills they need to be successful.” Growing To Meet The Needs of The Community Cristo Rey Miami High School is South Florida’s only college-and-career preparatory high school exclusively serving students from families with limited economic resources. With the generous support of South Florida's philanthropic leaders, the school is celebrating a major milestone in its “Built for the Future” capital campaign, reaching 90% of its $16 million goal. “As we celebrate meeting this significant goal in our capital campaign, we extend our deepest gratitude to our donors, partners, and the entire South Florida community,” said Amelie Ferro, President and CEO, Cristo Rey Miami High School. Continuing its trajectory of growth and excellence, Cristo Rey Miami High School is proud to announce a transformative gift of $2.1 million from Griffin Catalyst, the civic engagement initiative of Citadel Founder and CEO Kenneth C. Griffin. This generous donation supports the construction of a 38,000 square-foot academic building necessary to accommodate a full student body of approximately 425 students and lays the groundwork for future strategic endeavors. Griffin Catalyst’s donation serves as a testament to the success of Cristo Rey’s education model. With students attending college at higher rates than any other socio-demographic group and graduating from college at two times the rate of their peer group, Cristo Rey schools equip students from low-income backgrounds to excel in college and beyond. The success of Cristo Rey Miami capital campaign would not be possible without the generous support of South Florida's donor community. Key supporters such as the Miguel B. Fernandez Family Foundation, the Anthony R. Abraham Foundation, and the Smith and Shay families have played a pivotal role in realizing the school’s vision, demonstrating a shared commitment to empowering future generations through education. “Together, we are building a brighter future for our students, empowering them to realize their full potential and become leaders of tomorrow.” said Amelie Ferro. Cristo Rey Miami prepares students to enter and graduate from college by providing transformative learning opportunities both in the classroom and in corporate offices across Miami. A key element to the curriculum is the four-year, integrated Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP). Beginning freshman year, every student takes a full load of college preparatory coursework while also working five days each month in a professional office setting. The CWSP enables students to earn and pay for more than half of their tuition, gain professional work experience, cultivate a strong network of relationships, and realize the relevance of higher education to career goals. The Cristo Rey model has proven highly successful, graduating 25,800 students nationwide. Cristo Rey students enroll in college at higher rates than high and low-income populations and earn a bachelor's degree at twice the rate of their peers. For more information on Cristo Rey Miami High School, please visit: www.cristoreymiami.org . < Previous News Next News >

BoConcept Opens at Gulfstream Park Village, South Florida’s Home Store Destination: The Contemporary Furniture Retailer Joins a Lineup of Premier Home & Design Stores April 28, 2022 Share Gulfstream Park Village, South Florida’s premier entertainment, dining and restaurant destination located on the border of Broward and Miami-Dade County, offers a dynamic selection of home and design stores. Featuring 11 home stores at one address, there is something for every taste and budget. Whether it’s much needed spring cleaning and organization, or a décor refresh, Gulfstream Park Village is the perfect one-stop shopping destination that offers boundless options and inspiration. Gulfstream Park Village is pleased to welcome furniture retailer BoConcept as its newest retailer. The store is celebrating its official grand opening on Thursday, April 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Guests are invited to browse a wide range of luxurious Danish furniture and décor. Prior to the grand opening, the store will mark its official arrival with a ribbon cutting event with Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper. With the addition of BoConcept, Gulfstream Park Village is pleased to continue its leading position as a South Florida home store destination. Other retailers include Alex Kay Gallery/Art Plex Photo, Todel, Bang & Olufsen, Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, Sher Gallery, The Container Store, West Elm, Williams Sonoma and Z Gallerie. Shoppers can enjoy a variety of high-quality furnishings and seasonal décor at Z Gallerie, Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, and West Elm. For those looking to refresh a kitchen or bathroom space, Todel offers a number of luxury furnishings, fixtures and finishes in a large showroom setting with designers on hand to assist. The Container Store is a one-stop shop for organization, with a focus on custom closets and storage spaces. For food and kitchen enthusiasts, Williams-Sonoma offers evergreen and seasonal housewares, tools and gadgets as well as tablescape décor and kitchen essentials. The Bang & Olufsen store offers a shopping experience like no other where the latest in-home audio and visuals can be customed to suite any space. For finishing touches and unique art pieces of all genres, visit Sher Gallery, Zero Empty Spaces, or Alex Kay Gallery/Art Plex Photo. “Gulfstream Park Village is an ideal setting for home and design stores. As we continue to see steady increases in home shopping activity, Gulfstream remains a comprehensive, one-stop destination for 11 home stores with a unique array of products and services,” said Alex Schreer, Director of Experiential Marketing at Gulfstream Park Village. “It’s this unique shopping experience that distinguishes Gulfstream Park Village from ordinary malls.” No trip to Gulfstream Park Village is complete without enjoying the vast array of dining, entertainment, shopping and wellness & beauty options that the open-air center offers. Entertainment for Everyone Gulfstream Park Village offers a variety of ongoing entertainment destinations, including PlugIN Karaoke that features private rooms perfect for a night out. For the action-seeking crowd, Strike 10 Bowling offers food and fun for groups or families as well as plenty of arcade fun. Color Me Mine pottery painting is both a romantic and creative date-night favorite as well as a fun activity for kids. Dining That Delights Gulfstream Park Village offers a variety of dining options, so there is something to keep everyone satisfied! For a big night out or just a quick grab-and-go, guests can enjoy options including Yard House, Christine Lee’s, Texas de Brazil, Häagen-Dazs, Pastry Is Art, Belly Fish, Bissaleh and Ten Palms at the Gulfstream Park Clubhouse. Off to the Races Guests of all ages can enjoy daily racing at Gulfstream Park. Admission to races is free and high season brings the industry’s top jockeys and horses to high stakes races. For those looking to try their luck, Gulfstream Park Casino is open 365 days a year and offers a dynamic offering of socially distant slot and video game tables for a thrilling experience. Look and Feel Your Best Gulfstream Park Village has a variety of health and beauty options for those who want to look and feel their best. Visitors can visit Venetian Nail Spa to enjoy a manicure or pedicure or schedule an appointment at Ideal Image Med Spa, which offers a number of cosmetic medical services. Nadia Paris, an upscale French hair salon, offers services that enhance the natural beauty of guests’ hair. For those looking to get a quick workout in without all the work, Impulse Body Fitness is the latest method of personal training with a suit that does it all through science and technology. This workout can burn up to 2000 calories in just 25 minutes! About Gulfstream Park
Gulfstream Park is South Florida’s premier entertainment, dining and restaurant destination, located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, anchored by the legendary Gulfstream Park racetrack. Gulfstream Park not only offers world-class Thoroughbred horse racing but is also home to a casino and family-friendly venues including over 15 restaurants, outdoor cafes, art galleries, fashion retailers, state-of-the-art bowling alley, and a renowned selection of signature home stores. Gulfstream Park, voted a 2020 Top Travelers' Choice Winner by TripAdvisor, is located at 901 South Federal Highway in Hallandale Beach, Florida, just two miles east of I-95. Valet service and complimentary self-parking are available. Gulfstream Park is open seven days a week. For hours, schedules, upcoming events and additional information, visit https://www.gulfstreampark.com/ or call 954-454-7000 < Previous News Next News >

A Showcase of Skill and Community Spirit: The Broward County Transit 2025 Bus Safety Roadeo Aventura Digest January 22, 2025 Share Everyday heroes often operate in the background, unnoticed yet indispensable. Such is the case with bus operators, professionals whose expertise and commitment ensure the seamless movement of a bustling community. But once a year, they step into the spotlight for an event that celebrates their skills, precision, and dedication: the Broward County Transit 2025 Bus Safety Roadeo. This year, for the first time, the Roadeo leaves the closed gates of its traditional venue at the Copans Garage and moves to the open spaces of the Amerant Bank Arena Park and Ride Lot at Gate 7. Scheduled for Sunday, February 2, 2025, this historic shift transforms the competition into a public display, inviting families, transit enthusiasts, and curious residents to witness firsthand the incredible talents of BCT’s finest bus operators. The thrill begins as 11 of BCT’s most skilled operators navigate an intricate obstacle course, their movements precise and their focus unwavering. Each turn of the wheel and every maneuver showcase the expertise needed to guide massive buses through Broward County’s busy streets, a task they perform daily with unmatched professionalism. The 2025 competition welcomes "Flash" Jacquan, the 2024 Broward County Roadeo winner and standout participant. In 2023, he secured the Rookie of the Year title at the state level, ranking seventh out of 19 skilled competitors—a testament to his expertise and dedication. Though Jacquan isn’t competing this year, his presence exemplifies the camaraderie and shared passion that makes the Roadeo special. But this isn’t just a test of skill; it’s a celebration for the entire community. The Roadeo has evolved into a family-friendly festival with food trucks offering diverse cuisines, family-friendly games and activities, giveaways, and a festive atmosphere. With live DJ and radio broadcasts, the day promises memorable entertainment for all ages. At the heart of the event is a deeper message: public transit's critical role in connecting people to jobs and essential services. Events like the Roadeo offer a glimpse into the professionalism and dedication behind each bus ride, reminding us of the often-overlooked individuals who keep Broward County moving. “This year’s Roadeo is a unique opportunity to bring our community closer to the transit system,” said Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO/General Manager of Broward County Transit. “It’s a celebration not just of skill but of the community connection that underlines Broward County Transit.” The day culminates with an award ceremony at 12:30 PM, honoring the operators who have excelled in the competition. Beyond the trophies, the winners earn the privilege of representing Broward County Transit at the 2025 Florida Triple Crown Roadeo in Gainesville later this month. If they win at the State level, they will have the distinct honor of representing BCT at the International Bus Roadeo in Austin, Texas in April. So, mark your calendars, grab your loved ones, and head to the Amerant Bank Arena on Sunday, February 2, 2025, beginning at 8:30 a.m. for an unforgettable day of fun, community, and awe-inspiring skill. For more details, visit: https://www.broward.org/bct/Pages/default.aspx - Or call Customer Service at: (954) 357-8400. < Previous News Next News >

How Stressed Is Your Child? Far Too Many Young People Are Struggling August 18, 2022 Share Today's kids are experiencing unprecedented levels of stress and anxiety at home, school and in their communities. The COVID-19 Pandemic, which affected kids in all those places, only exacerbated the problem. The Surgeon General issued an Advisory on Youth Mental Health Crisis to highlight the urgent need to address the growing concern. "It is normal for children to experience emotional distress as they develop and mature," United States Surgeon General Vivek Murthy said. "However, the number of youth struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression and thoughts of Suicide over the past decade have increased. The future well-being of our country depends on how we support and invest in the next generation." Even Pre-Pandemic, Mental Health challenges were the leading cause of Disability and poor life outcomes in young people with up to 1 in 5 children ages 3-17 in the U.S. having a Mental, Emotional, Developmental or Behavioral Disorders, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "The Pandemic has been incredibly disruptive for youth since it has affected routines, access to social activities and virtually every aspect of their lives," said Robyn Knecht, Director of counseling for St. Joseph's Indian School, a Native American Residential School that helps students move beyond the cycle of Poverty, Addiction and Mental Illness with an education and opportunities for a brighter future. "Offsetting those impacts requires an active response from trusted adults that promote healthy development and well-being." If you're concerned about your children, or another child close to you, consider these tips from Knecht and St. Joseph's. Create a Support System of Family, Peers and Teachers The people surrounding youth influence their behavior directly and indirectly. Each child needs a team of actively involved adults at home, school and within the community leading by example and encouraging success. Similarly, encouraging friendships with peers who demonstrate positive habits and good decision-making skills can provide a sense of connectivity and beneficial peer pressure. Encourage Academic Achievement and Aspirations Not every student is destined to be Valedictorian, but every student can give his or her best effort. Encourage and recognize effort in studies, be conscious of struggles and work with educators to find additional support when needed. Talk about the future and impress upon your child many careers that require further training through college, trade schools or other forms of advanced education. Talk with your child about setting academic goals and equip him or her with the tools necessary to achieve them. Find things your child is passionate about and encourage participation in activities that foster development. Set Clear Expectations for Behaviors and Values Although it's natural to test limits, kids need clear boundaries. Consistently communicating your expectations for behavior and values sets a bar for your child and demonstrates your care and commitment to his or her success. Backing up your expectations with reasonable consequences when your child falls short can help teach responsibility and accountability. Teach Coping and Problem-Solving Skills How your child responds to and navigates challenges is as important as the outcome. Teaching your child how to accept disappointment, navigate conflict and be solution-oriented in the face of adversity can serve him or her throughout life. Promote Involvement in Social Activities A sense of connectivity is important for humans at any age. Encouraging participation in group activities can help create opportunities to form bonds with other children whose families share similar values and interests. Examples include Sports Teams and Religious Groups, as well as age-appropriate jobs where teens can interact with other kids learning the value of hard work. Don't Be Afraid to Seek Outside Help If you notice changes in your child's behavior or routine, be inquisitive and partner with him or her to work through them. If your child doesn't open up, it's OK to find another trusted adult he or she can connect with. Ask your child if there is someone he or she would feel comfortable talking to and look into Counseling Services in your community. Additionally, Mentorship and Social Service Programs can help support your child's journey and foster a supportive network. Find more ways to address the challenges facing today's youth at: www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/priorities/youth-mental-health/index.html < Previous News Next News >

MODI: Bringing Insight To Aventura: Laughter Is Indeed A Universal Language Fri Dec 08 2023 17:14:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

5 Bad Money Habits Hurting Your Financial Future By BPT October 18, 2023 Share There's a good chance you may have a habit or two when it comes to money that is not doing your financial future any favors. The good news is you're not alone, and there are ways to break those habits and create better financial health for you and/or your family. According to a recent survey from OnePoll and National Debt Relief, LLC, over 60% of people in the U.S. claim to make poor decisions when it comes to money and 42% of people admit to having current financial struggles. That may be in part because most people either have information that they aren't using in their day-to-day lives, or like over 20% of respondents, they need more information to help them learn better habits. Natalia Brown, Chief Client Operations Officer from National Debt Relief, has broken down the top 5 most common bad money habits and offered actionable tips on how to avoid these pitfalls. 1. Writing Off Small Purchases As Insignificant While spending money on things like takeout or app subscriptions may seem minor, these purchases add up over time. Your coffee may only cost $4.99, but as a daily habit, it can become costly. If you add up these seemingly insignificant costs over a month or two you'll get a clear picture of how much you're spending. Additionally, while BOGO promotions may be appealing, if you don't need the second item, don't spend the extra money. 2. Gambling While you may not be a high-stakes poker player or spend hours at casinos, a regular lottery ticket habit can mean you're throwing away your hard-earned money. Instead, try saving any money you might put into gambling and investing it into a higher interest savings account, which will add up quicker than you expect, especially if you keep adding to it. 3. Using Credit Cards To Pay Bills Paying bills with a credit card can work well if you're paying your balance off in full each month. But, if you're not paying your balance off in full each month, you may want to reconsider. The interest you'll end up paying on the card will make your bills much more expensive. For example, if your credit card interest rate is around 20% and you have a $5,000 balance, it could take you around 11 years to pay this off with minimum payments. Plus, your total payments will end up being around $8,417. To avoid getting into this situation, try listing out your regular expenses, categorizing which ones are absolute necessities (like rent, utilities and food) and which are not (like entertainment and eating out). Then total your must-pay bills and compare that amount to what you're earning and cut anything that's not a necessity that you've been relying on credit cards to keep up with. 4. Taking Out Payday Loans Beware of payday loans. These short-term loans often have high interest rates and may cost you a lot of money. Other options you can consider before taking out a payday loan may be finding ways to earn extra income like driving for a ride sharing company or getting some part-time work, or saving money through strict budgeting and getting rid of those non-essentials (see above for more on that). 5. Spending More Than You Earn Start by listing out all your expenses and your income. This can help you get a better picture of where, and how much, you need to cut down. Minimize unnecessary expenses and look for creative ways to boost your income. People are always looking for help with tasks like cleaning, organizing or creative work. If you have any special talents, see if you can monetize any of them. "Managing money can be tough, and we all make mistakes," said Brown. "There's a lot of guilt and shame associated with being in debt or having money struggles. It's important to know that you're not alone and there are steps you can take to create a better financial future for yourself or your family. At National Debt Relief, we understand the importance of not just helping people with their immediate debt situations, but also giving them the tools, skills and guidance they need to feel more confident and in control of their finances." Need to break bad financial habits? National Debt Relief can help you resolve your debt more quickly and for less money than you owe. Their team will also help you learn skills like budgeting, how to save money, and how to live within your means so you can improve your financial health and feel confident about your future. If you're ready to fix your bad money habits and create long-term financial security, visit: www.NationalDebtRelief.com - Or call: 800-674-0907. < Previous News Next News >

Traffic Alert: Road Closures In Hollywood Continue July 28, 2022 Share The Sheridan Street Bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway is fully closed for approximately 90 days. Eastbound traffic will be detoured via US-1, Hollywood Boulevard or Dania Beach Boulevard. Westbound traffic is being detoured via State Road A1A, Hollywood Boulevard or Dania Beach Boulevard. Access to local traffic and the Anne Kolb Nature Center will be maintained at all times via eastbound State Road 822/ Sheridan Street before the bridge. Pedestrian access is also detoured. Project improvements include installing Bicycle-Friendly/Anti-Slip Walking Plates along the bridge’s moveable spans, removing existing curb and adding a 32-inch traffic barrier between the sidewalk and roadway, removing and replacing the outer pedestrian railing, adding new Pedestrian gates in each direction, renovating the existing tender house, upgrading electrical and mechanical components and access platforms on the bridge. The vertical clearance across both spans will be reduced by 5-feet for the installation of a containment system for the duration of the project. Bridge opening times for Marine traffic will be impacted through September 2022. The temporary bridge opening schedule is, as follows: Daily, between 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. - One side of the bridge will open on the quarter hour and three-quarter hour. Boaters needing a full opening should provide 4-hours of advanced notice. Sunday-Fridays, between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. - The bridge will be closed. Boaters needing a full opening should provide 24-hours of advanced notice. Full openings are available only between 12:00 a.m. Midnight and 1:00 a.m. Friday-Sunday, between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. - Single-leaf openings will be provided on the quarter and three quarter hour. A full opening will not be provided during this time. These timing adjustments are needed in order to complete operations during the full bridge closure, which also began on Monday, June 13th, 2022 through September 2022, weather and unforeseen conditions permitting. This work is part of the State Road 822/Sheridan Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project, the estimated completion date is Late 2022. Utility Work Underway As part of the Utility Improvement Project, City contractor Man Con is working on North 26th Avenue between Taft Street and Sheridan Street. Crews will be installing approximately 5,900 linear feet of new water lines, 1,300 linear feet of drainage pipes and 2,200 linear feet of Exfiltration Trenches. Upon completion of this work, the roadway will be resurfaced & striped. Motorists should seek an alternate route around this full roadway closure to avoid delays. Flagmen will be in place to reroute Local/Residential traffic. Driveway and Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the Improvement Project. In general, workers will be on-site between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily, with construction taking place 5-days a week, weather permitting. This Improvement Project is expected to be completed by mid-November. Temporary Roadway and Sidewalk Closures City of Hollywood Contractor MBR Construction is completing a new concrete sidewalk installation along the north side of Johnson Street in this area. It will be closed to Vehicular and Pedestrian traffic, therefore it is recommended to seek an alternate route during construction. In general, the workers will be on-site between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. They will reopen the travel lane when they finish work every day at approximately 4:00 p.m., but the sidewalk will remain closed at all times until the project has been completed. One Lane Closed on Sheridan Street Turnpike Overpass For Emergency Repair One eastbound lane on the Sheridan Street Turnpike Overpass in the City of Hollywood is closed to Vehicular traffic due to a truck that hit the underside of the overpass causing significant damage to the structure. The truck was carrying heavy construction equipment while traveling northbound on the Florida Turnpike. One eastbound lane will remain open and the westbound lanes were not affected. Broward County and the Florida Department of Transportation are working together to evaluate and repair the damage. The County is helping to reduce traffic congestion in that area by synchronizing the traffic lights to maximize the flow of traffic. Drivers are encouraged to seek an alternate route until all of the repairs have been completed. < Previous News Next News >

Funny & Brilliant: Part of the Aventura Stand Up Comedy Series March 14, 2024 Share Straight from Showtime and three blockbuster comedy specials, The City of Aventura presents Funny Women of a Certain Age in the Aventura Stand Up Comedy Series on Friday, March 22 at 8 p.m. The hilarious line-up features Carole Montgomery, who created and stars in the Showtime specials. A stand-up comic described by The Last Vegas Sun as "one of Vegas’ premier comics,” Montgomery has had a long and varied career. With over two dozen television credits to her name, she is a respected veteran of the standup comedy scene nationwide. In her ten years as a Las Vegas star, she was seen by over five million audience members. Montgomery is joined by Vanessa Hollingshead, a comic and natural storyteller with a unique repertoire of heartfelt, funny characterizations of all the people that cross her path. Jerry Seinfeld raves, "Vanessa is extremely funny, has a strong, great point of view and fresh material. She's really, really, good and I wish her much success. She's got what it takes." Trish Keating completes the comedy trio with her comedy that is one-part social satire, two-parts personal pain, and most parts attitude. An alum of Chicago's Second City, she has been seen on NBC, FOX, HSN and CBS. Keating has appeared with such talents as Caroline Rhea, Wanda Sykes, Jay Mohr, Judy Tenuta, DL Hughley, Victoria Jackson, Jeff Dunham and George Wallace. These women are all brilliant, funny, and vibrant – and it just so happens, of a certain age. This event may contain adult language or content. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 5 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. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-square-foot, 330-seat waterfront complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. < Previous News Next News >

The Gift of Love: The New Book ‘Committed’ Helps Readers Cultivate Lasting Relationships December 23, 2021 Share Stories of flawless families and perfect romances fill social media feeds and TV screens year round, but during the holiday season in particular, these idyllic narratives can trigger feelings of loneliness in those still searching for that special someone. Here to help readers discard preconceived notions, reconsider unrealistic expectations and truly understand people and personalities that work well together is world-renowned Psychologist Dr. Carmen Harra. “Commitment can’t be forced, scheduled or altered. It either comes from the heart or it doesn’t,” says Dr. Harra. Whether you’re entering the dating scene for the first time, starting over or hoping to strengthen a current relationship, Dr. Harra’s new book, Committed: Finding Love and Loyalty Through the Seven Archetypes, will prompt you to reevaluate the way you think about love and ultimately make better choices. In Committed, Dr. Harra, Co-author and daughter, Alexandra Harra, who is a certified relationship coach, explain the seven main archetypes we all encounter, the promises they hold and the challenges they pose to relationships. The first part of Committed is devoted to the work we need to do on the inside and readers will learn how to reexamine core beliefs they hold, clear karmic patterns, heal any emotional trauma, liberate themselves from people who no longer serve them and develop an unshakable sense of self-worth. The second half of the book teaches readers how to identify archetypes in others and themselves, navigate the world of online dating, build emotional intimacy, mediate external influences and apply real-world solutions to resolve relationship problems. Ultimately, Committed aims to help you find and keep the love you deserve: an authentic, impassioned relationship that fills you with excitement each morning and puts your mind at ease every night. Dr. Carmen Harra is an intuitive Psychologist, best-selling author, radio show host and relationship expert. In the past 25 years, she has helped over 40,000 people rediscover peace of mind, reclaim personal power and regain joy. Her clients come from all walks of life, from the lady next door to Hollywood celebrities and eminent politicians. She’s the author of international best-sellers like Everyday Karma, Decoding Your Destiny, The Eleven Eternal Principles, and Wholeliness, among others. Carmen has been featured in such publications as The New York Times, New York Post, New York Daily News and on shows like Good Morning America, The View, Good Day New York, the Today show, and Fox News. She currently hosts Miracle Guidance for Everyday Life every Tuesday on OMTimes Radio and her new show, Live Now!, debuts on KMET News ABC Radio Affiliate Station on January 7th, 2022. Alexandra Harra is a certified life and relationship coach and author, while also boasting commendable career accomplishments as a writer. She writes regularly for renowned publications such as The Huffington Post and proactively aids her mother's mission to bring joy and love into people's relationships. For more information, visit: www.CarmenHarra.com Or follow the author on Instagram At: (carmenharra). Or on Facebook At: (DrCarmenHarra). < Previous News Next News >

BCT Makes A Statement: Eye-Catching Buses Drive Community Engagement August 1, 2024 Share Broward County Transit (BCT) is revving up ridership and community spirit with a fleet of dynamic buses that transform into rolling billboards for local celebrations. Forget the plain vanilla buses of yesterday – BCT is turning heads with eye-catching wraps that celebrate everything from holidays to hometown sporting heroes. This innovative approach isn't just about aesthetics; it's about forging deeper connections with the people BCT serves. "Broward County Transit (BCT) is deeply committed to celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of community," said Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO/General Manager. "We showcase this commitment by wrapping our buses for major events like Juneteenth, the Panthers' Championship Run, and Pride. These initiatives enhance the rider experience while demonstrating our support for the vibrant communities we serve." Pop-Up Park & Ride: Taking Fans to Victory Lane BCT's innovative Pop-Up Park & Ride service wasn't just about shuttles; it was about creating a seamless fan experience. Specially wrapped buses, emblazoned with Florida Panthers Pride, became an extension of the team spirit. This convenient and affordable option not only reduced traffic congestion around Amerant Bank Arena, but also offered a sustainable way to cheer on the Cats. Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO/General Manager of BCT, summed it up perfectly: "We were thrilled to be part of the Panthers' Historic Run. Our wrapped buses added to the electric atmosphere and, more importantly, provided a hassle-free way for fans to experience these unforgettable moments." Celebrating Champions: A Parade Fit for Royalty BCT didn't stop after the final buzzer. To ensure fans could celebrate the Panthers' Historic NHL Championship win in style, BCT offered special bus services for the Championship Parade. These frequent shuttles allowed the community to come together and showcase their Panther pride without the worry of parking or traffic woes. This commitment to enhancing the fan experience went beyond transportation; it was about creating a hassle-free way for the community to join the celebration. BCT's partnership with the Florida Panthers is a shining example of how a public transit agency can go beyond its core function to become a true community champion. Cheering for Cricket: World Cup Transportation BCT's commitment to supporting local and international sports events was also evident during the Cricket World Cup, which was hosted in Broward County. A specially wrapped bus celebrated the excitement of the Cricket World Cup, providing fans with a vibrant and convenient transportation option to attend the games. This initiative celebrated Cricket within the community and showcased BCT's dedication to creating enjoyable and accessible experiences for all attendees. Beyond the Bus: BCT's Broader Impact BCT's commitment extends far beyond transportation solutions. Events like the Stonewall Wilton Manors Pride Parade, supported by BCT, generate significant social and economic benefits. The Pride Parade, attracting over 50,000 attendees, contributed an estimated $6 Million to the local economy. BCT's colorful and inclusive bus wraps played a vital role in the vibrancy and success of these events. Celebrating Freedom: Juneteenth on Wheels BCT's deep community engagement was evident during the recent Juneteenth Celebration held at the Lauderhill Transit Center (LTC). A unique exhibition transformed a bus into a moving museum adorned with vibrant Juneteenth imagery. This immersive experience educated attendees about the historical significance of Juneteenth, the day marking the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Over a hundred community members, including families and children, participated in the event. The Juneteenth bus served as a backdrop for crafting activities and coloring pages, fostering a deeper understanding of the day's importance. The enthusiastic participation and impressive turnout testified to the event's success. BCT: More Than Just a Ride BCT's wrapped buses serve as vibrant ambassadors, embodying the agency's values of celebrating diversity, supporting local events, and enriching the community experience. By offering practical yet visually engaging transportation solutions, BCT continues to build strong connections with Broward County residents. Looking Forward: Deepening Community Engagement BCT is committed to further strengthening its involvement in community activities, with a focus on major events and parades. This ensures that public transportation remains an integrated and celebrated aspect of Broward County's social fabric. Through participation in these celebrations and each wrapped bus and supported event, BCT reaffirms its dedication to fostering community bonds and providing seamless transportation. < Previous News Next News >

Wars Are the Enemy of Freedom By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead March 2, 2022 Share It’s time for the U.S. government to stop policing the globe. “No nation could preserve its freedom in the midst of continual warfare.” — James Madison War is the enemy of freedom. As long as America’s politicians continue to involve us in wars that bankrupt the nation, jeopardize our servicemen and women, increase the chances of terrorism and blowback domestically, and push the nation that much closer to eventual collapse, “we the people” will find ourselves in a perpetual state of tyranny. It’s time for the U.S. Government to stop policing the globe. This latest crisis — America’s part in the showdown between Russia and the Ukraine — has conveniently followed on the heels of a long line of other crises, manufactured or otherwise, which have occurred like clockwork in order to keep Americans distracted, deluded, amused, and insulated from the government’s steady encroachments on our freedoms. And so it continues in its Orwellian fashion. Two years after COVID-19 shifted the world into a state of global authoritarianism, just as the people’s tolerance for heavy-handed mandates seems to have finally worn thin, we are being prepped for the next distraction and the next drain on our economy. Yet policing the globe and waging endless wars abroad isn’t making America — or the rest of the world — any safer, it’s certainly not making America great again, and it’s undeniably digging the U.S. deeper into debt. Indeed, even if we were to put an end to all of the government’s military meddling and bring all of the troops home today, it would take decades to pay down the price of these wars and get the government’s creditors off our backs. War has become a huge money - making venture, and the U.S. government, with its vast military empire, is one of its best buyers and sellers. What most Americans — brainwashed into believing that patriotism means supporting the war machine — fail to recognize is that these ongoing wars have little to do with keeping the country safe and everything to do with propping up a military industrial complex that continues to dominate, dictate and shape almost every aspect of our lives. Consider: We are a military culture engaged in continuous warfare. We have been a nation at war for most of our existence. We are a nation that makes a living from killing through defense contracts, weapons manufacturing and endless wars. We are also being fed a steady diet of violence through our entertainment, news and politics. All of the military equipment featured in blockbuster movies is provided — at taxpayer expense — in exchange for carefully placed promotional spots. Even reality TV shows have gotten in on the gig, with the Pentagon’s entertainment office helping to sell war to the American public. It’s estimated that U.S. military intelligence agencies (including the NSA) have influenced over 1,800 movies and TV shows. And then there are the growing number of video games, a number of which are engineered by or created for the military, which have accustomed players to interactive war play through military simulations and first-person shooter scenarios. This is how you acclimate a population to war. This is how you cultivate loyalty to a war machine. This is how, to borrow from the subtitle to the 1964 film Dr. Strangelove, you teach a nation to “stop worrying and love the bomb.” The media, eager to score higher ratings, has been equally complicit in making (real) war more palatable to the public by packaging it as TV friendly. This is how you sell war to a populace that may have grown weary of endless wars: sanitize the war coverage of anything graphic or discomfiting (present a clean war), gloss over the actual numbers of soldiers and civilians killed (human cost), cast the business of killing humans in a more abstract, palatable fashion (such as a hunt), demonize one’s opponents, and make the weapons of war a source of wonder and delight. Not satisfied with peddling its war propaganda through Hollywood, reality TV shows and embedded journalists whose reports came across as glorified promotional ads for the military, the Pentagon has also turned to sports to further advance its agenda, “tying the symbols of sports with the symbols of war.” The military has been firmly entrenched in the nation’s sports spectacles ever since, having co-opted football, basketball, even NASCAR. This is how you sustain the nation’s appetite for war. No wonder the United States is the number one consumer, exporter and perpetrator of violence and violent weapons in the world. Seriously, America spends more money on war than the combined military budgets of China, Russia, the United Kingdom, Japan, France, Saudi Arabia, India, Germany, Italy and Brazil. America polices the globe, with 800 military bases and troops stationed in 160 countries. Moreover, the war hawks have turned the American homeland into a quasi-battlefield with military gear, weapons and tactics. In turn, domestic police forces have become roving extensions of the military—a standing army. We are dealing with a sophisticated, far-reaching war machine that has woven itself into the very fabric of this nation. Clearly, our national priorities are in desperate need of an overhaul. Eventually, all military empires fall and fail by spreading themselves too thin and spending themselves to death. It happened in Rome: at the height of its power, even the mighty Roman Empire could not stare down a collapsing economy and a burgeoning military. Prolonged periods of war and false economic prosperity largely led to its demise. It’s happening again. The American Empire — with its endless wars waged by U.S. military service people who have been reduced to little more than guns for hire: outsourced, stretched too thin, and deployed to far-flung places to police the globe—is approaching a breaking point. The government is destabilizing the economy, destroying the national infrastructure through neglect and a lack of resources, and turning taxpayer dollars into blood money with its endless wars, drone strikes and mounting death tolls. This is exactly the scenario President Dwight D. Eisenhower warned against when he cautioned the citizenry not to let the profit-driven war machine endanger our liberties or democratic processes. What we have is a confluence of factors and influences that go beyond mere comparisons to Rome. It is a union of Orwell’s 1984 with its shadowy, totalitarian government—i.e., fascism, the union of government and corporate powers—and a total surveillance state with a military empire extended throughout the world. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, this is how tyranny rises and freedom falls. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an attorney and author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of constitutional law, human rights and popular culture. John Whitehead's commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org . Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org . < Previous News Next News >

Get Up & Get Dancing: The City of Aventura Offers An Opportunity For Better Health March 18, 2022 Share The City will be offering complimentary Zumba classes to Aventura residents of all ages starting in March and running every Thursday. The new Zumba program will include a certified Zumba instructor teaching this fun fitness class involving aerobic movement and Latin dance. Participants should be ready to bring a positive mood, have fun and bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. Cost: FREE When: Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Where: Founders Park 3105 NE 190 St. Benefits of Zumba Designed as a combination of salsa and aerobics, there’s no right or wrong way to do Zumba. As long as you move to the beat of the music, you’re participating in the exercise. And since Zumba involves movement of the entire body — from your arms to your shoulders and to your feet — you’ll get a full-body workout that doesn’t feel like work. A small study found that a standard, 39-minute Zumba class burned an average of 9.5 calories per minute. This adds up to 369 calories in total throughout the class. The American Council on Exercise recommends that individuals burn 300 calories per workout in order to promote weight loss and maintain a healthy bodyweight. Zumba fits their criteria perfectly. Evidence also shows that a 12-week Zumba program can provide significant improvements in aerobic fitness. Also, since music played during a Zumba class is relatively fast-paced, moving to the beat can help build your endurance after just a few workouts. You may not realize this but while doing Zumba, your mind and body work quite hard to make sure your movements follow the fast beats of the music and that your steps are aligned with others who are also dancing around you. Regular practice of Zumba boosts your mind-body coordination. Zumba is fast, intense, and rigorous. And Zumba is fun also. This is one of the main reasons why people who practice Zumba keep going back to it. They look forward to attending the class so they can dance away to the music along with their friends and family. Zumba also presents you with opportunities to socialize and make new friends. Registration Aventura residents of all ages welcome, registration is open and spots are limited. All participants must be registered prior to attending. Registration can be completed exclusively online only with a valid and existing account at cityofaventura.com/ors. For more information, visit cityofaventura.com or contact Founders Park at 305-466-0183 or parksrec@cityofaventura.com . Online registration must be completed prior to attending at https://secure.rec1.com/FL/aventura-fl/catalog < Previous News Next News >