The Right To Be Let Alone: When the Government Wants To Know All Your Business Thu Mar 16 2023 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Tomas Lopez September 22, 1929 - May 30, 2025 South Florida Sun Times Jun 11, 2025 Tomas Lopez, Devoted Husband, Loving Father, Grandfather And Great Grandfather, Passed Away Peacefully At His Home On Friday, May 30, 2025, At The Age Of 95. Born In Havana, Cuba, On September 22, 1929, Tomas Was The Fourth And Youngest Son Of Josefa And Celestino Lopez. Always a curious child with a strong intellect, Tomas ventured to Venezuela in his early 20s to visit his older brother. Upon his return to Cuba, he met Haydee Arencibia. They married on February 27, 1953. Tomas and Haydee and their four children left Cuba and immigrated to America in 1969 for a better life. With his engaging personality and witty sense of humor, Tomas made many friends in New Jersey and later in Florida. Through hard work and diligence, he owned his own business for many years. His greatest joy was spending time with his growing family. After 71 years of marriage, Tomas lost his beloved wife, Haydee in 2024. His parents predeceased him, as did his brothers, Celestino, Manuel and Ramon. Tomas is survived by his adoring children, daughter Rosa (Jesus) Ruiz, son Tomas (Stacey) Lopez, daughter Susana (Darryl) Farquhar, son Juan Lopez. He leaves behind grandchildren Jennifer (Martin) Mennicke, Jessica (Ryan) Chalmers, Jaclyn (Andrew) Witmer, Julia (Adam) Finkelstein, Isabel (Mac) Ahsler, Joshua Lopez, Stephanie (Hunter) Mills, Benjamin Farquhar, Sabrina Lopez. Tomas will be missed by his eight great grandchildren, Riley, Mason, Hadley, Anderson, Layla, Parker, Stella, Rowan. A private family service was held to honor Tomas. He will be dearly missed but his legacy will live on in his growing family and they will hold his loving memory in their hearts. Services were held at All Faiths Memorial Park 1390 Park Drive, Casselberry, Florida 32707. Tomas Lopez - September 22, 1929 - May 30, 2025 Previous Next

Inaugural Broward College Pickleball Challenge: To Raise Funds For Scholarships, Educational Programs And Student Resources Thu Jul 25 2024 16:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Prepare For The Next Storm - Take Early Action Ahead Of Hurricane Season, Starting June 1st South Florida Sun Times May 15, 2025 As Summer Approaches, The Days Get Longer, The Skies Brighter—And The Risks Of Hurricanes More Imminent. June 1St Marks The Official Start Of Hurricane Season, But For Broward County’s Office Of Emergency Management, Preparation Is Already In Full Swing. Their Message To Residents Is Clear And Urgent: Don’t Wait For The Storm To Start Preparing. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a recent transplant, it’s vital to understand that it only takes one Hurricane to disrupt lives and cause significant damage. The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season is forecast to be particularly active, making early preparation more critical than ever. The time to act is now. Why Early Preparation Matters Tropical cyclones are among the most powerful and destructive forces of nature. While many associate Hurricanes with wind speeds, it's often the water—storm surge and flooding—that causes the most devastation. The unpredictability of these storms, especially as climate change continues to influence their frequency and intensity, means there’s no room for complacency. “Preparedness saves lives,” says the Broward County Office of Emergency Management. “It’s not just about stocking up on supplies. It’s about having a plan, staying informed and knowing how to act quickly when a warning is issued.” From assembling emergency kits to reviewing evacuation zones, there’s a checklist of practical steps every household should complete before the first storm watch is issued. These include: • Creating a family emergency plan, including meeting points and communication options. • Assembling a disaster supply kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, batteries, flashlights and important documents. • Checking insurance coverage to ensure it includes flood protection. • Securing your home by trimming trees, checking shutters and understanding how to safely shut off utilities. • Registering for local alerts. To help the public better understand and prepare for these hazards, Broward County is partnering with local institutions for a series of engaging and educational events. Eye of the Storm Exhibit: May 31st Join the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS), the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) and Florida International University’s (FIU) International Hurricane Research Center (IHRC) on Saturday, May 31, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., for “Eye of the Storm” - a FREE, action-packed day of family-friendly education, museum exploration and hurricane preparedness. “With hurricane season rapidly approaching on June 1, it’s a good practice to be prepared for extreme weather and to understand the wealth of expert resources available in case of an emergency,” said Joseph P. Cox, President and CEO of MODS. “We are proud to be Broward County’s dynamic Hub for Resilience Education and we’re grateful to FIU and the FDEM for their support in helping us champion engagement, education and action for sustainability, resilience and overall safety during storm season.” Future Storm Chasers can participate in family-friendly activities including: • Presentations and Demonstrations by Hurricane Experts • International Hurricane Protection Association (IHPA) Air Cannon Missile Demonstrations • FIU Wind Engineering • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Hurricane Hunters • Live Weather Theater Shows • Local TV Meteorologists • A Kids Zone • Weather Safety • Weather Arts & Crafts • Storytime • Mascot Meet-and-Greets • MODS Weather Science Demos and All-Day Museum Exploration • Emergency Vehicle "Touch a Truck" and Meet & Greet with South Florida First Responders Families can explore sustainability and climate adaptation in Florida’s Climate Future City, sponsored by the Environmental Defense Fund. Guests can design and test resilient cities built to withstand extreme weather. Young meteorologists (ages 0-6) can discover how hurricanes form and create “My Hero Helper” portraits. “We’re proud to once again partner with FDEM and MODS to make critical hurricane science, mitigation, and preparedness education accessible to the entire community,” said Erik Salna, Associate Director for Education and Outreach at FIU’s Extreme Events Institute and International Hurricane Research Center and host of “Eye of the Storm.” “South Florida is one of the most hurricane-prone regions in the country and knowledge is power. This event brings together residents, leading hurricane experts, emergency management and community relief agencies for an interactive experience that empowers families with the tools, insights and resources they need to prepare effectively and build resilience before the next storm strikes.” Admission to MODS during the “Eye of the Storm” event is FREE thanks to the generous sponsors of FIU-IHRC and FDEM. To register, please visit: mods.org/eyeofthestorm or onsite at the Museum box office upon arrival. Hurricane Preparedness Open House: June 14th For those seeking more in-depth guidance, the Office of Emergency Management will host its Annual Hurricane Preparedness Open House on Saturday, June 14th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center, located at 2650 Sistrunk Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311. This event provides an opportunity for residents to connect directly with emergency management professionals, gather essential resources and receive personalized advice. It will feature: • Emergency preparedness presentations • Demonstrations of weather and communication tools • Distribution of printed hurricane guides • Free giveaways and family activities The Open House is designed to empower all members of the community—homeowners, renters, business owners and even seasonal visitors—to feel confident and informed heading into Hurricane Season. For more information about the events, or to request assistance, call: (954) 831-3900. The countdown to Hurricane Season has begun and the risks are real! Previous Next

Dance Your Way To Fitness: A Fun And Effective Way To Improve Your Health August 15, 2023 Share If you're a senior looking for a fun and effective way to get fit, look no further than Zumba. This dance-based fitness program has gained immense popularity in recent years for its ability to combine exercise with entertainment. With its energetic Latin music and dance moves, Zumba offers a unique and enjoyable fitness experience that is particularly beneficial for seniors. Every Thursday, you have the opportunity to join a Zumba class and embark on a journey of fitness and fun. One of the key benefits of Zumba for seniors is weight loss. Shedding those extra pounds can be a challenge, but Zumba makes it enjoyable. In a typical Zumba class, participants can burn up to 600 calories, which is a significant amount considering the fun-filled nature of the workout. The combination of dance movements and aerobic exercises creates a high-energy environment that helps you break a sweat and burn those unwanted calories. Another advantage of Zumba for seniors is its positive impact on Cardiovascular Health. This dance-based workout is a low-impact Aerobic Exercise, meaning it is gentle on the Joints while still providing an effective workout for the Heart and Lungs. Zumba gets your blood pumping and improves circulation, contributing to a healthy Cardiovascular System. Regular participation in Zumba classes can help reduce the risk of Heart Disease and other Cardiovascular Conditions. Flexibility is a crucial aspect of overall fitness, especially for seniors. Zumba incorporates a variety of dance moves that involve stretching and extending the Muscles and Joints. By engaging in these movements regularly, you can improve your flexibility and range of motion. Increased flexibility not only enhances your ability to perform daily tasks but also reduces the risk of injuries, as your body becomes more adaptable and resilient. Balance is another area where Zumba can make a significant difference in the lives of seniors. As we age, maintaining balance becomes increasingly important to prevent falls and injuries. Zumba's choreographed routines often require participants to move in different directions, challenging their balance and coordination skills. By regularly engaging in these movements, seniors can improve their balance, stability, and spatial awareness, reducing the risk of falls and improving overall mobility. Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones, is a concern for many seniors. Zumba's impact on bone strength is another reason why it is a great choice for older adults. The movements and weight-bearing exercises in Zumba classes put stress on the bones, stimulating bone growth and strength. This can help prevent or slow down the progression of Osteoporosis, promoting healthier and stronger bones. In addition to the physical benefits, Zumba offers a range of Mental and Emotional advantages for seniors. Exercise has long been known to improve mood and reduce Stress, and Zumba is no exception. The lively music, engaging dance routines and social atmosphere of a Zumba class create a positive environment that uplifts the spirits and promotes a sense of Well-Being. Regular participation in Zumba can boost your mood, reduce Stress levels, and provide a much-needed outlet for relaxation and enjoyment. So, how can you get started with Zumba? First and foremost, consult with your Healthcare Provider to ensure that Zumba is suitable for your health condition. Once you have the green light, The City of Aventura offers free Zumba classes every Thursday morning at 9:00 a.m. at Founders Park, 3105 Northeast 190th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. When attending your first Zumba class, wear comfortable clothing and supportive footwear. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the session, don't forget to warm up and cool down before and after the class. 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: www.cityofaventura.com/ors For more information, visit: www.cityofaventura.com - Or contact Founders Park at: (305) 466-0183. Or: parksrec@cityofaventura.com . < Previous News Next News >

Is There A Constitutional Crisis: Can The Rule Of Law Survive This Presidency? By John & Nisha Whitehead February 20, 2025 Share This has all the makings of a constitutional crisis. According to law professor Amanda Frost, “a constitutional crisis occurs when one branch of government, usually the executive, ‘blatantly, flagrantly and regularly exceeds its constitutional authority — and the other branches are either unable or unwilling to stop it.’” Consider for yourself. The president has gone rogue, doubling down on his belief that “I have the right to do whatever I want as president.” The vice president believes the president should be a law unto himself, i.e., unaccountable to the other branches of the government. The Republican-controlled Congress appears to be deaf, dumb and blind to the Executive Branch’s blatantly unconstitutional overreaches. The courts, which have in recent years largely rubberstamped the government’s power grabs, are ill-prepared to rein in a sitting president who is determined to do whatever he wants, the Constitution be damned. Meanwhile, the Constitution is still missing from the White House’s website. This last point is not an oversight. Rather, it speaks volumes about the priorities of the current presidential administration, which operates as if the rule of law does not apply to itself. Indeed, while President Trump’s predecessors paid lip service to the rule of law while sidestepping it at every opportunity, Trump has been unapologetic about his intentions to set aside whatever legal, moral or political barricades stand in the way of his end goals. Rule by fiat—when presidents attempt to unilaterally impose their will through the use of executive orders, decrees, memorandums, proclamations, national security directives and legislative signing statements—is an offense to the Constitution. It was offensive when Biden did it. It was offensive when Obama did it. And it is just as offensive when Trump does it. Already, Trump has signed more executive orders in his first month than any other president in their first 100 days. This is not a sign of strength and leadership. This is a red flag. In bypassing Congress in order to carry out his ambitious agenda, the Trump Administration risks transforming the executive branch into something akin to the very entities it often criticizes: an overreaching surveillance state, a nanny state that dictates individual choices, and a police state that prioritizes compliance over freedom. It is particularly telling that while Trump and his Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are pledging to lay off huge swaths of federal employees, the police state’s martial law apparatus will remain largely untouched. This way lies totalitarianism, by way of authoritarianism, and those who insist it can’t happen here need to pay better attention. It’s happening already. The following are 15 benchmarks of a totalitarian regime, according to journalist Benjamin Carlson: 1. Media is controlled. 2. Dissent is equated to violence. 3. Legal system is co-opted by the state. 4. Power is exerted to prevent dissent. 5. State police are directed to protect the regime, not the people. 6. Financial, legal, and civil rights are contingent on compliance. 7. There is a mass conformity of behaviors and beliefs. 8. Power is concentrated in an inner ring of people and institutions. 9. Semi-organized violence is permitted. 10. Propaganda targets enemies of the state. 11. Whole classes of people are scapegoated and singled out for persecution. 12. Extra-legal action against internal enemies is condoned. 13. Unpredictable and harsh enforcement is used against unfavored classes. 14. The language of the constitution serves as a facade for the exercise of power. 15. And all private and public levers of power are used to enforce adherence to state orthodoxy. To guard against these pitfalls, we must start by understanding the rule of law, and how it functions within our system of checks and balances. The rule of law is the principle that everyone, including the government—and the president—must obey the law, which is embodied in the U.S. Constitution. In a nutshell, the Constitution is the social contract—the people’s contract with the government—which outlines our expectations about the role of the government and its limits, a system of checks and balances dependent on a separation of powers, and the rights of the citizenry. America’s founders established a system of checks and balances to prevent the concentration of power in any single branch. To this end, the Constitution establishes three separate but equal branches of government: the legislative branch, which makes the law; the executive branch, which enforces the law; and the judicial branch, which interprets the law. Despite Trump’s attempts to rule by fiat, nowhere in the Constitution is the president granted unilateral authority to act outside these established checks and balances, no matter how well-meaning his intentions might be or how worthy the goals (a balanced budget, safety, economic prosperity, etc.). Allowing the president to bypass established legal procedures in order to prioritize his own power over adherence to the rule of law ultimately undermines the principles of a constitutional government. Which brings us to the present moment. With Congress on the sidelines, the momentum is building for a constitutional showdown between the White House and the judiciary. This is as it should be. The job of the courts is to maintain the rule of law and serve as the referees in the power struggle between the President and Congress. That delicate balance between the three branches of government was intended to serve as a bulwark against tyranny and a deterrent to any who would overreach. When all is said and done, however, it is supposed to be “we the people” who hold the real power—not the president, not Congress, and not the courts. As the Tenth Amendment proclaims, “The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.” The government’s purpose is to serve the people, not the other way around. Those first three words of the preamble to the Constitution say it all: “We the People.” This is a government of the people, by the people and for the people. So, what’s the answer? As I point out in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, America’s founders were very clear about what to do when the government oversteps. Bind them down from mischief with the chains of the Constitution, advised Thomas Jefferson. Take alarm at the first experiment on your freedoms, cautioned James Madison. And if government leaders attempt to abuse their powers and usurp the rights of the people, get rid of them, warned the Declaration of Independence. 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 >

Hurricane Season is Around the Corner: Now’s the Time to Get Your Emergency Plan In Place May 12, 2022 Share With the June 1st start of the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season just three weeks away, now is the time to get ready. Reduce your stress during an emergency by having your family’s plan in place in advance. A hurricane can cause major disruptions to your family, the power grid and the supply chain. The best way to minimize these and many other problems is to be prepared. Sit down with your family and determine essentials such as how much water your family needs, where you will go if you need to evacuate and how you will stay in contact with loved ones. You will also need to be able to be self-sufficient for at least 7 days after a storm hits our area. To help you prepare, here are some tips from the Florida Department of Health: • Your emergency plan should include: a) All members of your household, b) Special medical conditions, c) When and where to evacuate, d) Special transportation needs, e) Emergency meeting place, f) An out-of-town contact who everyone can call to stay in touch, and g) Pet plan. • Gather emergency supplies: a) A gallon of water per person for 7 days, b) Non-perishable foods such as canned meat, fish, veggies, fruits and nuts, c) Can opener, disposable plates and utensils, and d) Matches and cooking gel. • Stock up on medical needs: a) 30 day supply of prescription medications from your doctor, b) Over the counter pain reliever, antacids, anti-diarrhea medicine and children’s medicine, c) List of all medications and essential medical devices, d) Physician contact number, and e) Blood type and allergies for all household members. • Assemble a first-aid kit with sterile bandages, cleansing agent, safety pins, gauze pads, scissors, sewing needle, moist towelettes and tape. • Collect essential data in a waterproof container: a) Contact information for property insurer, official emergency agencies, family and friends, b) Credit card and bank information, c) Portable computer storage device with electronic copies of mortgage, home deed, car title, etc. d) Instructions for shutting off utilities, and e) Pet health records. • List your major home belongings and back it up with photos. Sign Up for New "Alert Hollywood" Emergency Notifications The City of Hollywood has launched a new emergency notification system called Alert Hollywood. Used by many government agencies throughout Florida, Alert Hollywood notifies residents through phone calls, e-mails and/or text messages to mobile phones of an emergency in the community such as a hurricane watch or warning, flash flood warning, tornado warning, serious police situations and other critical incidents. To register, visit www.hollywoodfl.org and click on the Alert Hollywood graphic under “Hollywood Happenings.” On the registration page, click on the "Sign Up" link located just below the login fields. After you submit your information, you will receive Alert Hollywood notifications whenever an alert is issued. Alerts may be received by phone and/or email address. Severe weather alerts issued by the National Weather Service are automatically issued through the Alert Hollywood system if you elect to receive those notifications. The Alert Hollywood service is free to the public. Text message fees by your wireless carrier may apply depending on your mobile phone plan. Already Have An Alert Hollywood Account? If you already have created an Alert Hollywood account, simply type your username and password in the appropriate fields on the Alert Hollywood registration page and click on the "Sign In" button to log into your account. Important Note For Hollywood CodeRED Subscribers The City of Hollywood no longer uses the CodeRED emergency alert system. If you would like to receive emergency notifications from the City of Hollywood, you must register for the Alert Hollywood service. Alert Hollywood is powered by the Everbridge critical event management software platform. Stay informed - register for Alert Hollywood today at: http://www.hollywoodfl.org/725/Alert-Hollywood For more information, the City of Hollywood’s 2022 Hurricane Preparedness Guide, shelter information and more, please visit the City’s website at www.HollywoodFL.org/Hurricane < Previous News Next News >

Need A New Love This Valentine's Day? February 10, 2022 Share Does Valentine's Day get you down? Are you looking for someone to give you kisses every day? If you said “yes” to both of these questions then here are some possible new loves in your life. Nelda (ID 650484) is an adorable gal waiting to meet you at the Humane Society of Broward County. She is four years old, and the volunteers say she is super sweet, walks well on a leash, loves everyone, and has a happy personality. Nelda is curious, will follow you around and appears potty-trained. She would love to be your forever Valentine. Stop by to meet her and we know you too will fall in love. Adorable Shadow (ID 651461) and his camera-shy brother Panther are looking for a home where they can stay together. Sadly, they were given up because someone was allergic to them. The pair are good with kids and birds; but might be shy around dogs. Both enjoy watching TV with you and they like to play with each other. Panther is a bit more reserved until he gets to know you, while Shadow is more out-going. You can adopt the duo and pay one adoption fee, that way this family can stay together. Adorable Bud (ID 651377) wants to be your pal! At 7 years old, this handsome fellow might have some Labrador retriever in him. Don’t let his age deter you, he is quite spry for his age and likes to chase after toys, though he doesn’t always bring them back. Bud is not a fan of felines or small dogs, but he may do ok with a larger dog. He appears to be potty-trained and would love a family to spoil him. Can you make his wish come true? Quinn (ID 651669) is a beautiful bunny who wants to hop into your heart and home. She has a very soft coat and a sweet personality. She, like all rabbits, require lots of hay to help aid in digestion and lots of leafy greens. Quinn is just one of several rabbits waiting for a loving home. Animal shelters are your best source when looking for a pet. Not only do they have a great selection of adult animals for adoption, but they also have kittens and puppies, even purebred animals. In fact, on average, purebreds account for about 25% to 30% of a shelter’s dog population. Choosing a Dog? If you are thinking of adding a loving and loyal canine companion to your family, you will want to consider many factors in selecting the type of animal which best suits your lifestyle and fits your needs. Choosing a Cat? Cats make wonderful pets. Because they’re less demanding, they can easily adjust to a variety of lifestyles and living spaces. Every cat is a true individual though, so it’s important to take the time to choose a four-footed friend who’s right for you. When you adopt from the Humane Society of Broward County all pets are spayed or neutered before going home. In addition, they receive preliminary vaccinations, a microchip, heart-worm test for dogs over seven months, feline leukemia test for cats, a limited 14-day health care plan courtesy of VCA Animal Hospitals, and a bag of Purina ONE pet food while supplies last. For more details call the Humane Society of Broward County at 954-989-3977 ext. 6. If you would like to meet a pet, please fill out a pre-adoption application on the website www.humanebroward.com then stop by, the shelter is located at 2070 Griffin Road, a block west of I95 and opens daily at 11 AM. If you can’t adopt, but want to help the animals, join us for the 2022 VCA Walk for the Animals on March 5. Learn more at www.walk4theanimals.com < Previous News Next News >

Art In The Atrium & New Permitting Tool: The City Of Hollywood Offers Art, Culture & Convenience August 23, 2024 Share The City has launched a Permitting Solution powered by Accela Software that makes it easy to Apply for and Track certain Permit and Inspection Types online. The process is fast and easy and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. With just a few clicks, you can Apply online for the following Residential and Commercial Permits: Demolition, Fence, Windows, Doors, Shutters, Plumbing, Driveway, Electrical, Mechanical, & Reroofing. Users will need to create an account prior to submitting an Accela Permit Application. Click here to access the Accela Portal, then click "Register For An Account" in the upper right corner of the site to create an account. While Version 2.0 of the Accela Portal is being developed, the City’s existing permitting services will remain in place to accommodate larger, more Complex Building Projects and Permits previously applied for. These services include tools to Manage Permits applied for or issued prior to August 19th, 2024. The team is committed to expanding the Accela Platform, with Version 2.0 expected to launch in 2025. Art In The Atrium Arts & Craft Fair All are encouraged to attend and meet the makers of the music, and handmade arts and crafts and support those who create it. From beginner to professional, join artists and crafters displaying fine photography, jewelry, wood crafts, oil paintings, home décor and more at the community center’s outdoor atrium area. The event will be held Saturday, August 24th from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Fred Lippman Community Center, 2030 Polk Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020. For more information, call: (954) 921-3408. < Previous News Next News >

The Players' Inaugural Season of Jerry’s Girls - A Musical Revue that Honors the Life and Work of Legendary Broadway Composer Jerry Herman December 12, 2024 Share The Pompano Players third offering in their inaugural season is Jerry’s Girls, a musical revue that honors the life and work of legendary Broadway composer Jerry Herman. The production will open at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center on January 10th and run through January 19th. Jerry’s Girls has been described as a ‘celebratory two-hour musical entertainment of glamour, optimism, love, melody, and women’ (The Guide to Musical Theatre). It is a thoughtfully constructed musical revue that celebrates Herman’s music and lyrics, highlighting the broad spectrum of material he wrote specifically for female performers. More than most Broadway composers, Jerry Herman showcased 'larger-than-life' women in his iconic musicals. From Dolly Gallagher Levi of Hello, Dolly!, to Mame Dennis of Mame, or Countess Aurelia of Dear World, Mabel Normand of Mack and Mabel, and female impersonator ZaZa of La Cage Aux Folles, Herman’s women were center stage – strong, key personalities that drove the shows’ plots, led musical numbers, and sometimes even determined the fates of the plays’ other characters. The production, directed and staged by multiple Carbonell Award-winner Michael Ursua, will feature 35 of Herman’s songs: “Jerry Herman is my favorite composer,” Ursua says. “He had tremendous musicality and wit. His gift was to musicalize the resilience of the human spirit. We’re presenting Jerry’s Girls with a 6-piece live band, beautiful costumes, energetic choreography and staging, great vocals, and an amazing cast.” Jerry’s Girls will star Lourelene Snedeker, Patrece Bloomfield, and Abbey Alder, and feature Cassidy Joseph, Caroline Macchiarola, Jacqueline Rose, Alexandra Van Hasselt, and Lauren Wickerson. David Nagy will serve as the production’s Musical Director; Choreography will be by Alex Jorth. Claudia Smith is the show’s Scenic Designer, Stevie Bleich will create the Lighting Design, and Penny Williams is the Costume Designer. Jerry Herman (1931-2019) has the distinction of being the only composer/lyricist in history to have had three musicals that ran more than 1,500 consecutive performances on Broadway. His first Broadway show was Milk and Honey (1961), followed by Hello, Dolly! (1964), Mame (1966), Dear World (1969), Mack & Mabel (1974), The Grand Tour (1979), La Cage Aux Folles (1983), Jerry’s Girls (1985), and Mrs. Santa Claus (1996) a CBS television special. His string of awards and honors includes multiple Tony Awards, Grammys, Olivier Awards, Drama Desk Awards, the Johnny Mercer Award, the Richard Rodgers Award, the Oscar Hammerstein Award, the Frederick Loewe Award, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Theatre Hall of Fame and The Kennedy Center Honors. For more information about Jerry Herman, visit www.jerryherman.com . Jerry’s Girls will run January 10th, 2025 – January 19th, 2025 at Pompano Beach Cultural Center. The theatre is located at 50 West Atlantic Boulevard, Pompano Beach, Florida 33060. Tickets for Jerry’s Girls range in price from $45 to $65. Tickets may be purchased online at: https://pompanobeachculturalcenter.com or by calling: (954) 501-1910. < Previous News Next News >

Phyllis Lazarow - A Life In Laughter, Song, And Style (1931 - 2025) Oct 29, 2025 Hallandale Beach Lost One Of Its Brightest Lights With The Passing Of Phyllis Lazarow, The Trailblazing Owner Of Phyllis Lazarow Salon, A Beloved Local Landmark For More Than 25 Years. Born in the Bronx in 1931, Phyllis began her career as a singing comedienne, entertaining audiences throughout New York and the famed Catskills resort circuit — better known as the Borscht Belt. During that time, she shared stages with some of the greats — Sammy Davis Jr., Alan King, Buddy Hackett, and Henny Youngman — holding her own among comedy legends with her sharp wit, fearless timing, and radiant charm. She loved the stage, but even more, she loved people. When she eventually traded show business for small business, she brought the same charisma and confidence to Hallandale Beach. Opening Phyllis Lazarow Salon was less a career change than a venue change — she simply swapped a spotlight for salon lights. Though she never touched a head of hair, she became the most famous salon owner in town. Phyllis’s secret? She knew beauty wasn’t just about how you looked — it was about how you felt. For over two decades, she transformed a simple beauty salon into a stage filled with laughter, music, and warmth. Regulars came for their weekly appointments and left with their spirits lifted. Husbands who once waited in the car quickly learned to come inside — not for the gossip, but to hear Phyllis tell a joke, sing a song, or deliver a one-liner worthy of a comedy club. Her humor was legendary, her kindness genuine, and her ability to connect with people unmatched. Phyllis had a way of making everyone feel like the star of the show — even when she was clearly the headliner. Her daughter, Michele, followed in her entrepreneurial footsteps as the owner of Absolutely Fabulous, another Hallandale Beach favorite. And just like her mother, Michele couldn’t go anywhere without hearing, “Are you Phyllis’ daughter?” She even considered changing the name of her store from Absolutely Fabulous to Phyllis Lazarow’s Daughter. Later, when Michele ran for City Commission in 2012, knocking on doors across the city, the same question followed — only this time, it came with instant support: “Are you Phyllis’ daughter? You’ve got my vote.” Michele proudly credits her mother’s reputation, warmth, and connection to the community for helping her win that first citywide election. Thirteen years later, she serves as the city’s Vice Mayor — proof that Phyllis’s legacy of humor, heart, and hometown love lives on. Beyond the salon, Phyllis was a proud mother, devoted friend, community pillar and a loving wife. She believed life was meant to be lived out loud — preferably with good company, good stories, and a little lipstick. Phyllis will be remembered for her laughter, her love, and her gift for turning ordinary moments into memories that still make us smile. Phyllis Lazarow - a pillar of Hallandale Beach, proud mother, loving wife and owner of Phyllis Lazarow Salon Previous Next

Merrily We Roll Along Jewish Connection News Mar 17, 2026 Following Its Triumphant, Tony Award-Winning Broadway Revival That Became One Of The Most Celebrated Productions Of The Season, The Adrienne Arsht Center For The Performing Arts Of Miami-Dade County (@Arshtcenter) And Zoetic Stage (@Zoeticstagemia) Are Proud To Present The Miami Premiere Of Merrily We Roll Along, The Cult-Favorite Musical By Stephen Sondheim Which Traces The Unraveling—And Eventual Spark—Of A Decades‑Long Friendship Among Three Artists Chasing Success. Featuring An All-Local Cast, The Musical Will Run In The Intimate Carnival Studio Theater From Friday, March 13th, 2026 - Sunday, April 5th, 2026. Tickets to Merrily We Roll Along are $67* and may be purchased now at: www.ArshtCenter.org . Or at the Arsht box office by calling: (305) 949-6722. For guests with accessibility needs, the Arsht provides accessible seating and complimentary assistive listening devices for all performances, along with sign language interpretation, open captioning, and audio description at select shows to ensure an inclusive experience for all guests. "It is always a celebration of creativity and joy when we bring the work of Stephen Sondheim to our stages and community,” said Zoetic Stage Artistic Director Stuart Meltzer. “Merrily We Roll Along demonstrates Sondheim's incredible use of lyrics: language surrounded by a gorgeous score, reminding us all to never let go of our dreams." Merrily We Roll Along tells the story of Frank Shepard, a famous songwriter and eventual film producer, and his two closest friends. Moving backwards across 20 years, the show details Frank's rise from a penniless dreamy-eyed composer to a wealthy film-producing sell-out, and what he lost to get there. The production features an all-local cast featuring award-winning actors from across South Florida, and stars Carbonell Award winner Alex Jorth as Frank Shepard, John Reed as Charlie Klingas and Joline Mujica as Mary Flynn. The production also features Leah Sessa, Lindsey Corey, Justin Packard, Sara Grant, Irene Adjan, Wayne LeGette, Joel Rodriguez and Kalen Edean. *All programs, artists, ticket prices, availability, dates and times are subject to change without notice. Tickets shown include taxes and fees. Visit: www.arshtcenter.org for up-to-date information. The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is made possible by the public support of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Council and the City of Miami Omni Community Redevelopment Agency, and the state of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Adrienne Arsht Center also receives generous support from individuals, corporations and local, state and national foundations. About the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County Since opening in 2006 in the heart of downtown, the Arsht proudly serves as the cultural pulse of Miami – the heart of magical live arts experiences that spark the imagination and connect people to one another. Whether on our stages or in your neighborhood, the Arsht is alive year-round with international artists, innovative programming from resident companies and local arts partners, free community events that reflect Miami’s unique identity and more than 100 culturally diverse and impactful learning experiences for 80,000 children every year. The Arsht, a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization, has been recognized as a leader in Miami's cultural transformation, producing more than 400 annual events that generate 11,500 local jobs and $125 Million in economic impact. The Arsht is home to a robust series of touring Broadway musicals, star-studded jazz and classical music concerts curated for South Florida, an award-winning Miami-based theater program and numerous historic and televised events. Free annual Arsht events, such as Gospel Fest Miami, Art + Mind Day, Heritage Fest and our LGBTQ+ Pride celebration bring together people from all corners of our community. For more information, visit: www.ArshtCenter.org . About Zoetic Stage Zoetic Stage was founded in 2010 to create fresh, bold interpretations of contemporary plays and musicals, and is dedicated to enhancing South Florida’s national artistic profile by producing regional premieres and developing new works to become part of the American stage repertoire. In 2020, Zoetic Stage was named the Best Theater Company by the Miami New Times. The theater has been nominated for an impressive 140 Carbonell Awards (of which 15 were for Best Production of the Year) and won 45, including six for Best New Work and four for Best Production of a Play or Musical. Zoetic Stage productions have received 48 Silver Palm Awards for Outstanding Achievement. Zoetic Stage is an Associate Member of the National New Play Network, a member of Theatre Communications Group and the South Florida Theater League. Visit: www.zoeticstage.org for more information. Previous Next