Empowering The Next Generation To Confront Hate - Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Names Michael Cohen U.S. Executive Vice President Jewish Connection News Oct 23, 2025 The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation (AJCF), A Nonprofit Organization Dedicated To Harnessing The Lessons Of The Holocaust To Combat Contemporary Hate And Bigotry, Has Appointed Michael Cohen As Its New U.S. Executive Vice President. In This Role, Cohen Will Directly Report To The Foundation’s Director General, Working In Close Coordination To Expand AJCF’s Global Mission To Confront Antisemitism, Extremism And Hate In All Its Forms. Cohen brings deep experience in Jewish communal leadership, government affairs and Holocaust Education. Most recently, he served as East Coast Director at the Simon Wiesenthal Center and the Museum of Tolerance, where he oversaw strategy, operations, programming and staffing. His career has spanned influential roles in both government and advocacy, including as Director of New York State lobbying at Pitta, Bishop, Del Giorno & Giblin, Director of Public Policy for the Orthodox Union and Chief of Staff to the New York State Senate Majority Leader. Earlier, in between stints with NYC Councilmember Mathieu Eugene and NYC Public Advocate Mark Green, Cohen served a pivotal role on the staff of longtime congressman Edolphus Towns, a former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. While with Towns, Cohen organized the first Black/Jewish Capitol Hill Conference in a generation, working with co-sponsors such as the iconic Congressman and Civil Rights Leader John Lewis. “We are excited to welcome Michael to the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation,” said Chairman Simon Bergson. “At a time when antisemitism is escalating worldwide, his addition to our leadership team will help ensure AJCF remains at the forefront of Holocaust and anti-hatred education—empowering the next generation to confront hate with knowledge, courage and moral clarity.” Cohen currently serves on Governor Kathy Hochul’s Hate & Bias Council, New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ Jewish Advisory Board, CUNY Chancellor Félix Matos Rodríguez’s Jewish Advisory Board and the New Jersey Israel Commission. He also serves as an appointee to the Israeli Consulate and Hadassah's Speakers Bureaus. From 2011 to 2022, Cohen was a city councilmember in Englewood, New Jersey. “At a time when hate and antisemitism are on the rise, I am humbled to join the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation’s remarkable team, whose work continues to transform remembrance into responsibility and impact communities worldwide,” said Cohen. “Together, we will build on AJCF’s extraordinary legacy to expand its reach, deepen its impact and forge lasting partnerships with government leaders, civic institutions, and faith communities—strengthening the Jewish community while building bridges with all communities committed to tolerance, dignity and human rights.” Cohen holds both Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Political Science from Brooklyn College (CUNY). He lives in Woodmere, New York, with his family. The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation is a NonProfit Organization dedicated to harnessing the lessons learned from the Holocaust to combat hatred and bigotry through educational programs and by providing direct humanitarian aid to victims of mass atrocities. It supports survivors of genocides and other tragedies, including Ukrainian refugees and those impacted by Hamas's October 7th attacks. The Foundation maintains the Auschwitz Jewish Center, the last remaining synagogue in Oświęcim (Auschwitz) and serves as the primary institution dedicated to preserving the memory of the town's Jewish community while addressing hate. To date, over a million people have visited the center, more than 300,000 students participated in its educational programs and tens of thousands of diplomats, military and law enforcement personnel and educators, have taken part in its educational initiatives on tolerance and the Holocaust. For more information, visit: https://ajcfus.org/ . Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation U.S. Executive Vice President, Michael Cohen Previous Next

Premium Cuts, Good Vibes And Steakhouse Sophistication Aventura Digest Apr 23, 2026 The Wagyu Bar, Owned By Butcher Meat N' Bone, Is Entering An Exciting New Chapter, Expanding Into A Larger, Upgraded Space In Coral Gables Perfectly Suited For Its Unique Blend Of Approachability And Sophistication. Currently Featuring Limited Reservations And First-Come-First-Served Walk-In Access, The Restaurant Is Offering Guests An Early Glimpse Of What’s To Come: Refined Interiors, An Enhanced Menu, And An Unbeatable Array Of Premium Proteins (For All Tastes And Budgets). The Restaurant Officially Opened Its Doors To The Public On Monday, April 13th, 2026. The relocation has significance as The Wagyu Bar (originally established in 2021) takes over the former home of longtime Coral Gables staple, Cafe Vialetto, ushering in a fresh era while honoring the space’s rich culinary history. For those wondering about the move from Coral Way to Le Jeune, the answer is simple: more of everything, from space and parking to ambience and atmosphere. This expansion not only allows the concept to grow, but also lends The Wagyu Bar an aesthetic that better reflects what the brand is known for. “I’m truly excited to bring this space to life and introduce something fresh to our beloved community, because no great story ever begins with a salad,” says Gabriel Llaurado, Co-Owner of Meat N’ Bone. “Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch at the bar, enjoying a relaxed date night, unwinding during Happy Hour, sharing a memorable dinner with friends and family, or celebrating in our private dining room, we look forward to elevating every aspect of the experience.” First, the menu, which features a bevy of classics as well as new temptations from its northern sister, The Wagyu House in Halladale Beach. Guests can expect a dynamic range of steaks priced from $25 to $200, making the experience accessible yet indulgent, while showcasing the quality and versatility the brand is known for. Beyond the steaks, the menu broadens to include a selection of top-choice animal proteins, ensuring there’s something for every palate while maintaining a strong focus on premium sourcing and bold, satisfying flavors, including a wide array of the top USDA Midwestern Steaks along with a lineup of exclusive Japanese, Australian and American Wagyu Steak. Highlights from the expansive dinner menu include: A5 Wagyu nigiri; charred beef tartare topped with tobiko (Raw & Rare); an array of Burgers and Katsus, such as Joyce Farms, all natural, ethically raised poultry; Minnesota American pork Baby Back Ribs and Grilled Branzino al Limone, served with asparagus (Non-Beef) and, of course, steaks for days. The steak menu offers several tiers of quality, including Japanese A5 Wagyu (Miyazaki-Gyu, Kobe, and Hannari); Kokusan Japanese Wagyu (Ribeye and New York Strip); Colorado Wagyu (Picanha and Denver); and USDA Prime (Ribeye and New York Strip). An intimate bar with limited seating offers guests a front-row view of the restaurant’s standout cocktail program. Enjoy an exclusive daily Happy Hour featuring $7 well cocktails alongside a curated selection of bites. Highlights include smoked edamame ($6); proper tequenos ($9); wagyu crostinis ($9); tuna tataki bites ($8), and mini crab cakes ($14). The inviting space also features a glass-enclosed wine room, showcasing an extensive international collection, and a private dining room available for larger groups or full buyouts. The Wagyu Bar seats close to 70; the private dining room comfortably accommodates 16. Lunch specials are served daily from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 3:00 p.m. and features salads, Burgers & Buns, and Sharing Plates. Individual Lunch Platters include a choice of protein such as Chicken, Salmon, or Steak, served with white rice or quinoa and a side salad. Sharing plates are designed for groups and include a premium cut of meat such as G1 Certified Bavette, Certified Choice Picanha, or Colorado Wagyu Picanha, served with a choice of two sides: mashed potatoes, French fries, or rice and quinoa (Serves 3 to 5 guests). But what of The Wagyu Bar’s original space at 2257 Coral Way? As of Monday, April 13th, 2026 it's operating as Meat N’ Bone Kitchen, equal parts retail and polished casual carnivorous cafe with a select menu of bites; burgers, sandwiches, and select protein-leaning main plates. Must-tries include two “Breakfast At Any Time” options: a smoked bacon & egg sandwich and steak & eggs. Of course, foodies and connoisseurs of the finest meats in the realm can enjoy Meat N Bone’s direct-to-consumer service, delivering to states across the continental U.S. With a selection of ethically-sourced, premium-quality products, home cooks can elevate their culinary experience with an exceptional range of meats, seafood, and gourmet essentials. For more information or to make a purchase, please visit: meatnbone.com The Wagyu Bar is located at 4019 South Le Jeune Road, Coral Gables, Florida 33146. It is open daily, 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Reservations are available via: Resy. And: www.OpenTable.com . For more information and to stay updated on opening news, follow: @TheWagyuBar. Or visit: www.TheWagyuBar.com . Telephone: (786) 579-2498. The Wagyu Bar 4019 S Lejuene Steak with Chimichurri The Wagyu Bar 4019 S Lejeune Wagyu of Japan combo The Wagyu Bar 4019 S Lejeune Previous Next

Hey Macarena Thu Apr 28 2022 04:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Tip of The Spear: DPW Is The Heart of the City That Makes Everything Work Thu Feb 23 2023 17:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Vaccine Mandates? Depending where you live Some say Yes, Some Say NO Thu Jan 27 2022 05:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Tom Cotter Brings A Night Of Unstoppable Laughter To The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center South Florida Sun Times Jan 7, 2026 Audiences Won’t Want To Miss A Fantastic Night Of Humor With One Of Comedy’s Most In-Demand Performers, Tom Cotter, Who Brings A Night Of His Undeniable Laughter To The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center On Friday, January 9th, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. As Part Of The Aventura Comedy Series Presented By The City Of Aventura. Before his historic finish on NBC’s “America's Got Talent,” where he famously lost to a dog, Cotter had already been entertaining audiences across the U.S. and internationally. His global credits include performances in London and on British TV, as well as major wins at the Seattle International Comedy Competition and the Boston Comedy Festival, in addition to being voted “Best Stand-Up” at the Las Vegas Comedy Festival. Cotter’s long list of television and radio appearances features “The Tonight Show,” “Last Comic Standing,” multiple “Comedy Central Presents… Tom Cotter” specials, “Comics Unleashed,” “The Late Late Show,” his stint as Celebrity Host of “Gotham Comedy Live” on AXS-TV and “The Howard Stern Show.” Known for his rapid-fire sarcasm, sharp satire and clever word play, Cotter remains one of the most sought-after comedians in the business. There’s never a dull moment when he’s on stage. Tom McTiernan, one of the East Coast’s top comedians, opens the evening with a hilarious preface to Cotter. McTiernan has appeared at premier comedy clubs in New York City and Los Angeles, including Comic Strip Live, Gotham Comedy Club and the world famous Improv. His television appearances include Comedy Central, NBC’s “Friday Night” and Gotham Comedy Live. He has also performed in Atlantic City and Las Vegas, opening for major acts including Brian Regan, Jeff Dunham and Tom Jones. This event contains adult language or content. Tickets to all shows are on sale now. 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 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. 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 Next

Monkeypox: A Vaccination Site Has Opened in Hollywood Thu Aug 18 2022 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Minty Z Expands In The Magic City: Plant-Based Asian Dim Sum Concept Expands With Second Location In Midtown Miami June 9, 2023 Share Minty Z, the Plant-Based Restaurant Concept showcasing Asian Fusion Cuisine, has been a Coconut Grove mainstay since opening in 2021. Now, Chef/Owner Alex Falco along with his Wife Huimin Zhu (AKA Minty Z and the restaurant’s muse) and Partner Ignacio Lopez-Mancisdor have opened a second location of the popular Dim Sum Destination in the heart of Midtown Miami at 3451 Northeast First Avenue, Miami, Florida 33137. With an indoor/outdoor seating capacity of 50, the full-service restaurant is now open daily for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, delivering craveable, vibrant cuisine that is wholly Plant-Based but first and foremost, fresh and delicious. According to Falco, “We consider Minty Z to be an Asian Dim Sum Restaurant that also happens to be Vegan. I think that if they still exist, we are doing a great job of disproving any stereotypes about Plant-Based cooking. There is so much creativity, flavor and substance in all of our dishes that no one leaves hungry. You don’t need to be Vegan or Vegetarian to enjoy our food.” The menu’s universal appeal wins over all diners, regardless of their protein preferences, with bold flavors and inventive combinations; everything designed for sharing. Bao Buns are made fresh and in the Traditional Chinese-Style. Classic buns are pan fried and filled with “Prosperity Beef” Filling – Minty Z’s version of Plant-Based Beef, glazed with Hoisin Sauce and a side of Coconut Yogurt Dipping Sauce. The Steamed King Oyster Mushroom Bao are stuffed with Mushrooms, Jalapeño and Crispy Onions and served with a Chili Mayo Sauce for dipping. Sesame Seitan Wings with a Sweet Sambal Sauce are spicy and tender; Kung Pao Tofu offers a Classic Chinese dining experience made healthy but no less delicious with Snow Peas, Chilis and Peanuts, served with Brown Rice. Larger dishes include standouts such as: Thai Curry Cauliflower with Coconut Massaman, Peanuts, Pickled Herbs and Chili Oil; Wok-fried Wild Mushrooms comprised of a variety of fresh King Oyster, Shiitake and Hon Shimeji Mushrooms and Massaman Curry Noodles, a customer favorite of thick noodles, Crispy Tofu, Snow Peas, Peanuts, Chili and Lime. All are served with a variety of perfectly Spiced House-Made Sauces. Minty Z is a labor of love for Chef/Co-Owner Alex Falco. After more than a decade working in acclaimed restaurants in both the United Kingdom and New York, Falco’s palate began to evolve and he became Vegan in 2018. Minty, also a hospitality professional, embraced a fully Plant-Based Diet as well in 2019 and the two decided to move to Miami to open a business that reflected their twin culinary passions and inspirations: Plant-Based cooking and Asian Cuisine. After a brief foray with a Vegan Food Truck, they began selling their creations at farmers markets, particularly the legendary Coconut Grove Organic Farmers Market where they gained a devoted following for their made-from-scratch Kim Chi, Bao Buns and dumplings. The Pandemic arrived and although it limited their public-facing opportunities at first, it afforded them time for research and development to really perfect their recipes, creating dishes that took Plant-Based Asian Cuisine to the next level. In December 2020 they opened Minty Z at 3206 Grand Avenue, Coconut Grove, Florida 33133 with an opening menu that expanded well beyond their farmers market fare, earning them a callout by Miami New Times as “Best Restaurant in Coconut Grove” in the paper’s 2021 Annual Best Of. Encouraged by the success of the restaurant and with the support of Lopez-Mancisdor, who had become a Minty Z superfan and ultimately became friends with the couple, the team decided to expand. They found an opportunity in Midtown Miami with the hopes that Minty Z would prove just as popular with the young professionals and families that lived there, as well as the shoppers and diners drawn to the area. “I love to bring Non-Vegan or Non-Vegetarian friends to Minty Z just to watch their reactions when they realize how delicious the food is,” concurs Lopez-Mancisdor. “Once I discovered the restaurant in Coconut Grove I knew that I wanted to be part of any future plans for the concept. Midtown is such a wonderful spot for our new location. It has a great mix of residents and visitors and is already established as a restaurant Mecca. We’re thrilled to be open and to see folks embrace what Minty Z has to offer.” The cheerful restaurant has a whimsical vibe, awash with a central mural, bright colors and cheerful Asian-accented decor. Wine, Beer, Sake and Sake Cocktails are served. There is also the online shop which offers up many of the restaurant’s House-Made Signature Sauces and Products including Black Sesame Caramel, Cauliflower Kimchi, Dragon Sauce and Ginger Tamari Sauce as well as Frozen Bao Buns. Minty Z is open seven days a week serving lunch and dinner daily with brunch on weekends. Reservations can be made on an Open Table with Takeout and Delivery is also available. Minty Z Midtown is located at 3451 Northeast First Avenue, Miami, Florida 33137. Minty Z Coconut Grove is located at 3206 Grand Avenue, Coconut Grove, Miami, Florida 33133. For more information, visit www.mintyz.com - Follow Minty Z on Social Media: @mintyzllc < Previous News Next News >

Free Dental Clinic - Coming To South Florida To Address Limited Access To Care South Florida Sun Times Apr 10, 2025 Access To Dental Care Is One Of The Most Significant Health Challenges In The United States Today. According To The American Dental Association, Nearly One In Four Americans Struggles To Access Basic Dental Care Due To Various Factors Such As Geographic Barriers, Financial Constraints And Lack Of Insurance. As A Result, Millions Of Americans Go Without Necessary Dental Services, Leading To Pain, Infections And Worsening Health Conditions. In Miami Gardens, Florida, This Issue Is Particularly Pressing For Many Residents, Where Economic Challenges And Limited Healthcare Access Leave A Significant Portion Of The Community Underserved. To address this pressing need, Remote Area Medical (RAM), a leading nonprofit organization focused on providing free healthcare services to underserved communities, is bringing its renowned dental clinic to Miami Gardens. The event will take place on April 26th - April 27th, 2025, at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex, located at 3000 NW 199th Street, Miami Gardens, Florida 33056. This free clinic will provide essential dental services to residents of Miami Gardens and surrounding areas who may otherwise not have access to care. Breaking Down Barriers to Dental Care The lack of access to dental care is a multi-faceted problem. For many people, particularly those without insurance, paying for even routine dental procedures can be prohibitively expensive. According to a 2022 survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly 45% of U.S. adults said they did not visit the dentist in the past year due to cost concerns. Moreover, in areas like Miami Gardens, access to care is further hampered by transportation issues, economic challenges, and a lack of available providers. To help address these barriers, RAM's free dental clinic in Miami Gardens will offer a range of services at no charge. These services include general dental cleanings, extractions and x-rays, all provided by a team of volunteer dental professionals. The clinic aims to reach as many people as possible, regardless of their ability to pay or their insurance status. The event is open to all, with no identification or insurance required for treatment. This makes it one of the most accessible healthcare events in the area, offering essential services to those in need. "Too often, people in underserved communities simply cannot access the dental care they need. RAM's clinic in Miami Gardens is an important opportunity for residents to get the care they deserve," said a local representative. "By providing free, high-quality care, we hope to alleviate some of the pain and stress that many people in our community are facing when it comes to their dental health." A Collaborative Effort This clinic is a collaborative effort between RAM, the City of Miami Gardens, Councilwoman Katrina Baskin, The Golden Foundation, Miami-Dade County Dental Society and the National Dental Association. Each partner plays an essential role in organizing and facilitating the clinic, ensuring that it runs smoothly and can serve as many people as possible. One of the most important aspects of RAM's work is its ability to bring together volunteers from different backgrounds to address critical healthcare needs. The clinic in Miami Gardens will be staffed by a dedicated team of dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists and dental assistants, all of whom are donating their time and expertise to serve the community. The partnership with local organizations and volunteers is essential to the success of RAM's clinics. It's because of their commitment and generosity that RAM is able to provide free dental services to those who need them most. What to Expect at the Clinic The clinic will open its doors at 6:00 a.m. on both Saturday, April 26th and Sunday, April 27th, with services provided on a first-come, first-served basis. As demand for these free services is expected to be high, RAM encourages individuals to arrive early. The parking lot at Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex will open at 4:00 a.m. on both days and the clinic doors will open at 6:00 a.m. For those planning to attend, it's recommended to come early to secure a spot, as the clinic may reach its daily capacity before closing time. On Saturday, the clinic will operate throughout the day, while Sunday's operations will be slightly abbreviated, so patients are encouraged to arrive early to receive treatment. RAM also advises attendees to be aware that, in the event of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances, there may be changes to the schedule, such as earlier opening times or a reduced number of patients being seen. Since its founding in 1985, Remote Area Medical has been committed to delivering high-quality healthcare to underserved populations across the country. With a focus on rural and underserved urban areas, RAM organizes free healthcare clinics that offer a wide range of services, including dental, vision and medical care. Over the years, RAM has hosted more than 1,500 clinics across the United States, providing over $215 Million in free healthcare services to nearly a million people. RAM's approach to healthcare is unique in that it addresses immediate, essential needs while also fostering long-term improvements in public health. By eliminating barriers like cost and distance, RAM allows individuals to access care that may otherwise be out of reach. This helps prevent more serious health issues down the road and improves quality of life for those who are most vulnerable. The Miami Gardens dental clinic is an excellent opportunity to receive free care, but it is also an opportunity for local residents to get involved. RAM relies heavily on the support of volunteers and donors to make its clinics possible. If you're interested in volunteering or donating, you can find more information on RAM's website at: www.ramusa.org. For those who wish to attend the clinic, the Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/s/ram-free-clinic-miami-gardens-/956952649714116 is another resource for up-to-date information on the clinic schedule and other details. With the help of local organizations, volunteers and donors, RAM is able to bring free dental care to those who need it most. By providing essential services, RAM is improving lives and making a tangible difference in the fight for equitable healthcare access. In a world where millions still struggle with limited access to dental care, RAM's free clinics offer a much-needed solution, bringing healthcare directly to those in need and offering hope for a brighter, healthier future. For more information about the upcoming clinic, including how to volunteer or donate, visit: www.ramusa.org - Or call: (865) 579-1530. Previous Next

More Than A Meal - Goodman JFS Hand-Delivers Dignity & Joy To Holocaust Survivor This Passover South Florida Sun Times Apr 10, 2025 This Passover, Goodman Jewish Family Services (JFS) Is Uniting Broward County Through A Holiday Initiative To Distribute Over 1,100 Seder Meals And Gift Bags To Those In Need, Including Over 600 To Seniors And Holocaust Survivors Like Viviane Yassur. Beyond tradition and nourishment, these visits offer a vital connection for many seniors—nearly half of whom experience loneliness—making each delivery not just a meal but an emotional and memorable experience for all. Goodman JFS, serving one of the largest Holocaust survivor populations in the U.S., is transforming these deliveries into moments of hope and holiday spirit. Each Kosher meal package includes traditional favorites and a personal note. Passover runs from the evening of April 12th to April 20th. About Viviane Yassur Born in Fes, Morocco in 1939, Viviane's early life was shaped by adversity. As antisemitic laws spread in 1940, her family was forced from their home in Fes to the Jewish Quarter--The Mallah Ghetto, where essentials like bread and milk were rationed. Growing up undernourished, Viviane battled Tuberculosis and various medical conditions from a young age. Most of what she knows about her time in Mallah was told to her by her parents. However, she does have memories of the darkness, consequently causing her to live in fear. She later learned that the darkness stemmed from curfews and blue paper covering the window panes to conceal their presence from the outside. To this day, she is still afraid of the dark. Despite these challenges, Viviane's resilience shone through. After the war, an opportunity emerged for young people to study in the United States and return to their country to teach what they studied. Viviane would go on to earn a full scholarship to UCLA for a certification to teach English. Her time in LA was transformative, living with a Psychiatrist's family and helping care for their daughter while going to school. Returning to Morocco, Viviane taught English briefly before moving to Israel, where she continued her teaching career and met her first husband, an American. The marriage ended in divorce, but she later found love again in Maryland, where she worked as a bookkeeper. Viviane and her second husband eventually retired to Hallandale Beach. She has no children but remains close to her nieces and holds a rich history of memories from a life of resilience and reinvention. This Thursday Goodman JFS leaders will personally visit 86-year-old Holocaust survivor and Hallandale Beach resident Viviane Yassur to deliver her Passover Seder meal and holiday package at Highland Park Village in Hallandale Beach. Previous Next

Long Term Goals For Hallandale Beach: The CRA Trust Fund Is Investing In The Community Thu Sep 21 2023 16:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Thought-Provoking Summer Of Art - Celebrate The Transformative Power Of Art With Four New Summer Exhibitions South Florida Sun Times Jul 9, 2026 This Summer, The City Of Pompano Beach Invites Residents And Visitors To Experience Four Thought-Provoking Exhibitions That Explore Identity, Transformation, Creativity, History, And Human Connection. Opening Across The City's Cultural Venues, I Am My Ancestors At The Ali Cultural Arts Center, Shape, Break, Build And Carried Home At Bailey Contemporary Arts Center (BaCA), And In Connection At The Pompano Beach Cultural Center Demonstrate The Transformative Power Of Art To Inspire Dialogue While Offering New Perspectives On The World Around Us. "Art has the power to challenge assumptions, spark conversation, and bring people together," said Ty Tabing, Cultural Affairs Director for the City of Pompano Beach. "These four exhibitions demonstrate how artists can help us better understand ourselves, our communities, and our shared experiences. Each exhibition offers a unique perspective, yet together they tell a larger story." Exhibition: I Am My Ancestors Ali Cultural Arts Center Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026 – Wednesday, September 16th, 2026 Leading the summer season is I Am My Ancestors, a powerful exhibition by artist Will Simpson of Timelessartz that celebrates Black culture, resilience, and achievement. Presented through the lens of dance, music, poetry, and visual art, the exhibition explores the rich cultural traditions and creative legacies that continue to shape African American communities today. Located at the Ali Cultural Arts Center in the heart of one of Broward County's most significant African American communities, the exhibition challenges conventional narratives by highlighting a heritage rooted in royalty, innovation, artistry, and strength. Through vibrant and thought-provoking works, I Am My Ancestors encourages visitors to embrace their heritage, recognize their worth, and celebrate the enduring legacy of those who came before them. Exhibition: In Connection Pompano Beach Cultural Center Friday, July 17th, 2026 – Friday, September 25th, 2026 In Connection brings together a diverse group of artists from the Coral Springs Artist Guild to examine the many forces that bind us to one another, our communities, and the natural world. Working across painting, drawing, collage, mixed media, and photography, participating artists explore the evolving nature of togetherness through personal and collective narratives. The exhibition reflects the Guild's commitment to fostering artistic growth, creative dialogue, and community engagement among artists from multiple generations and backgrounds. Through thoughtful and engaging works, In Connection invites visitors to reflect on the relationships, experiences, and shared histories that shape our collective humanity. Preview Reception: In Connection Thursday, July 16th, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. Exhibition: Shape, Break, Build Bailey Contemporary Arts Center (BaCA) Friday, July 24th, 2026 – Saturday, September 19th, 2026 Curated by Luna Goldberg, Shape, Break, Build presents a decade-long exploration of material innovation by artist Luke Jenkins. The exhibition showcases Jenkins' ongoing experimentation with reclaimed wood, utilizing techniques that range from CNC carving and thermal modification to sandblasting, inventive joinery, and even the transformative effects of termites. Through works that move fluidly between sculpture, furniture, and conceptual art, Jenkins examines themes of decay, resilience, adaptation, and renewal. By embracing both craftsmanship and chance, Shape, Break, Build reveals the dynamic relationship between artist and material, inviting audiences to consider how transformation can emerge through both intention and natural processes. Opening Reception: Shape, Break, Build Friday, July 24th, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Exhibition: Carried Home West Gallery, Bailey Contemporary Arts Center (BaCA) Friday, July 24th, 2026 – Saturday, September 12th, 2026 In Carried Home, artist Luke Jenkins examines the remarkable journey of Cryptotermes brevis, a termite species native to Chile's Atacama Desert that traveled across oceans within the wooden ships of early European colonization before ultimately establishing itself in South Florida. Originating in the driest place on Earth, Cryptotermes brevis survives today within the kiln-dried wood used to build homes and structures throughout South Florida. Because it cannot survive in moist natural ecosystems, its existence here depends entirely on human-made environments, creating a fascinating story of adaptation, migration, and survival. Through reclaimed wood marked by termite activity, alongside carved wood, ceramics, and paper, Jenkins explores themes of movement, hidden histories, and interconnected environments. Drawing connections between ship structures, desert landscapes, termite colonies, and local communities, the exhibition transforms termite damage into a visual record of loss, resilience, and shared histories. By combining patterns created by hand, machine, and insect, Carried Home invites viewers to reconsider how seemingly invisible journeys continue to shape our environment and collective experience. Carried Home was made possible with support from the Broward County Cultural Division. Additional support has been provided by the Community Foundation of Broward through the Helen and Frank Stoykov Charitable Endowment Fund and the Mary and Alex Mackenzie Community Impact Fund. Opening Reception: Carried Home Friday, July 24th, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. West Gallery, Bailey Contemporary Arts Center (BaCA), Register All exhibitions are free and open to the public. For more information about these exhibitions and other cultural programming, visit the City of Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Division Website at: https://www.pompanobeacharts.org . Or call: (954) 545-7800. "Art has the power to challenge assumptions, spark conversation, and bring people together," said Ty Tabing, Cultural Affairs Director for the City of Pompano Beach. "These three exhibitions demonstrate how artists can help us better understand ourselves, our communities, and our shared experiences. Each exhibition offers a unique perspective, yet together they tell a larger story about transformation, resilience, and connection." All exhibitions are free and open to the public. For more information about these exhibitions and other cultural programming, visit the City of Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Division Website at: https://www.pompanobeacharts.org . Or call: (954) 545-7800. About Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department The mission of the Cultural Affairs Department, operating as Pompano Beach Arts, is to provide cultural programming that includes visual arts, digital media, music, film, theater, dance, and public art for the enjoyment and enrichment of residents and visitors to Pompano Beach, Broward County, and the greater South Florida area. The department programs and manages the City’s premiere cultural arts venues, including the Pompano Beach Cultural Center, Ali Cultural Arts Center, Bailey Contemporary Arts Center, and the Blanche Ely House Museum. The department also oversees the City’s Public Art Program and the Artists in Residence (AiR) initiative. Artwork - Sacral Plane Artwork - Shared Resonance Artwork Title - Oakland Grove AMD (plate) Previous Next