Small Business, Big Dreams: Women Entrepreneurs & Business Leaders Can Enter To Win $15,000 Thu Sep 14 2023 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Take an Active Role in Your Community: Don’t Miss Out On All The Activities Taking Place in Hollywood October 5, 2023 Share The City of Hollywood has multiple community/public meetings scheduled over the next several weeks, at various times on a variety of topics. There are multiple ways to participate to learn more and to share your ideas and suggestions. The meetings will include: Virtual Public Meeting: Recapture the Swale - Thursday, October 5 at 6pm The citywide “Recapture the Swale” program focuses on restoring the usefulness of swales as a green stormwater infrastructure and flood control/protection measure. The City is in the process of restoring swales throughout the City as part of this program. All are invited to attend a community meeting to learn more about the importance of swales and what you can do to help control flooding in your neighborhood. Register for your virtual attendance at: www.hollywoodfl.org - search "Recapture the Swale." Sunset Park Master Planning Meetings at these locations on the following dates from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.: • Monday, October 16 at Boulevard Heights Community Center – 6770 Garfield St. • Tuesday, October 17 at Kay Gaither Community Center – 6291 Funston St. • Thursday, October 19 at Oak Lake Community Center – 3190 North 56th Ave. • Tuesday, October 24 at Hollywood Beach Culture & Community Center – 1301 South Ocean Dr. • Wednesday, October 25 at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center – 2400 Charleston St. • Thursday, Nov 16 - Virtual Meeting - Meeting link on City calendar at: www.hollywoodfl.org Hollywood GO Bond Traffic Calming Project Meetings at these locations on the following dates from 6 to 8 p.m.: • District 1 – October 16 at Hollywood Beach Culture & Community Center 1301 South Ocean Dr. • District 2 – October 23 at McNicol Community Center – 1405 S. 28th Ave. • District 4 – November 2 at Oak Lake Park Community Center – 3190 North 56th Ave. • District 5 – October 24 at Boulevard Heights Community Center – 6770 Garfield St. Don’t miss out on all the activities taking place in Hollywood in the coming weeks. Cardboard Boat Race
October 14th – 10am - 12pm
City of Hollywood Marina at 700 Polk Street Boo Bash followed by ArtsPark Movie Night
Friday, October 26th from 5pm to 10pm
ArtsPark at Young Circle in Downtown Hollywood Hollyweird Halloween Downtown Hollywood Block Party 
Saturday, October 28th – 9pm - 2am
Hollywood Boulevard between 19th & 20th Avenue Liberia 100 Celebration
Friday November 3rd – Sunday, November 5th 
Several Events over the weekend Hollywood West Salsa Fest
Saturday, November 4th – 5pm - 9pm
Boulevard Heights Community Center Amphitheater Veteran's Day BBQ for Hollywood Veterans and Active-Duty Service Members
Saturday, November 11th – 12pm 
TY Park, Corporate Pavilion #12
 Please visit the City's website for details on everything happening in Hollywood: www.hollywoodfl.org < Previous News Next News >

This Year's Budget Is Almost Complete: Is A Tax Increase For The Upcoming Fiscal Year Necessary? By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper August 19, 2021 Share In September 2019, the city received the SAFER grant award in the amount of $5.7 million. This grant funds the requested 14 Firefighter positions for a period of 3 years. Over the past month, we have received calls from concerned residents, about the water leaking on Hallandale Beach Boulevard and Three Islands. The leak, is due to a small fracture, in a 14-inch pipe. The work to repair this, was scheduled and our Staff, was preparing and found, that this older sized pipe, was difficult to find, but it was finally found and work will now begin, for the repairs. There will obviously be a disruption in traffic, so please, pardon the dust. Over the next years, we will be endeavoring to aggressively updating our infrastructure. We have secured a revenue bond, based on our current utility rates, but, we will also be looking to propose a Government Obligation Bond, to replace many pipes, that are well over, 50 years old. The following is a continuation of our City Manager's Budget Message and The Strategic Financial Plan. This year's budget is almost complete. We held our final budget workshop and will be conducting our public hearings, to adopt the final determinations. The concepts laid out in this plan, have not all been adopted. We did adopt on first reading, for the On-Street Parking Plan with some amendments, that include a reduced rate for senior and codified, our policy, for free parking, for Handicapped Residents and Veterans. For approximately the past four fiscal years, both Administration and the City Commission, have discussed, the creation of a Request For Proposal (RFP), for the outsourcing Of The City's Sanitation Services. It has been previously discussed, that by outsourcing those particular services, the City would realize, performance improvements, while generating, approximately $1.5 Million, in Franchise Fees, for The General Fund, at the same time. The Current Administration, has considered the previous concerns, by members of the City Commission, as it pertains, to Sanitation Staffing and Layoffs. To that end, our proposal would be to proceed with the Outsourcing Of Services, as a part of our Financial Solvency Strategies, while keeping all of our current Sanitation Employees, which will allow them, to work in current vacancies, within the Department Of Public Works. The Outsourcing Of Sanitation, is a vital part of our Financial Stabilization Strategy, because once implemented, in FY2023, there would be a one-time transfer, to The General Fund, of the Remaining Balances/Closeouts Of The Transportation Fund, in the amount of $4.5 Million. Additionally, in that same fiscal year, the city would generate revenues of approximately $1.5 Million, for a total of $6 Million, in FY2023. The City would receive, approximately $1.5 Million, in franchise fees, per year, after that. Property Tax Increases: Although A Tax Increase, is not proposed, for the upcoming fiscal year, increases may become necessary, to offset the projected, steep, budget shortfalls. An increase, is not proposed in FY2021/2022, as we recognize, that the Global Pandemic, is not over and that, the community, is still struggling, with the effects, of a slow recovery. However, A Proposed Tax Increase, of approximately .65 Mills, is proposed, starting in FY2022/2023 and in, FY2023/2024. The Proposed Increases, will generate approximately $2.9 Million, in FY2022/2023, approximately $6 Million, in FY2023/2024 and approximately, $6.1 Million, in FY2024/2025. It should be noted that the ability to tax is capped at 10 mills, including that of independent districts such as Golden Isles and Three Islands. The current operating millage is 7.0000 with a maximum potential increase of 1.2466. This maximum is proposed to be spread over a period of two years beginning in FY2022/2023. Therefore, under our current structure, the total millage that can be assessed is approximately 8.12466 (excluding debt service millage). Cost Allocation Study: One of the tools which we can utilize is the update to our City’s Cost Allocation Plan. The full Cost Allocation Plan (CAP) can be used as supporting documentation for inter-fund transfers between Enterprise and Special Revenue Funds and the General Fund. In essence the CAP clearly documents the administrative and support costs (e.g., HR, Procurement, Finance, IT etc.) incurred by the General Fund in support of operating departments such as Public Works. The last CAP was done in 2019. It reduced the transfers to the General Fund by approximately $1 million, even though expenses have increased. A revised CAP will consider these expense increases. As a management tool the CAP provides City Administration with relevant cost data as to how much it actually costs to provide specific services. Cost Savings - Elimination Of SAFER Grant Firefighter Positions: In March 2019, the City Commission, approved a SAFER Grant Application, in the amount of $3.5 Million, to fund 14 Firefighter Positions, that were needed to place, a third of the Firefighters, on The Fire Trucks. Due to the City’s financial constraints, an Economic Hardship Waiver Request, was also submitted, for the funder, to consider granting 100%, of the costs. In September 2019, the City received, The SAFER Grant Award, in the amount of $5.7 Million. This Grant, funds the requested 14 Positions, for a period of 3 years, (from March 2020, through the end of, March, 2023). Per The Grant Guidelines, The City, is not obligated, to keep the positions, at the end, of the Grant Period. Should the City decide to keep the positions, the financial obligations would begin, in FY2022/2023 with a cost to the General Fund of $890,679. For FY2023/2024 and FY2024/2025, the cost would increase, to approximately $1.9 Million and $2.1 Million, respectively. The cost of keeping these positions after the grant ends, through FY2024/2025, is approximately $4.9 Million. This will be a direct impact, to reserves given, for the expected, budget shortfalls, in the next, four years. In order to preserve reserves and better prepare for the end of ARPA, the elimination of, the 14 Firefighter Positions, is recommended. Hiring Freeze Of Select Positions: Over the next year, The Administration, will review possibilities, for the freezing of select positions, as long as, those positions do not interfere, with the level of services, that we are now experiencing, as a result of, The Policy Of Minimum Staffing Levels, which, we have adopted. As previously discussed, for many years, the City was understaffed, due to previous, budget cuts. This led to existing staff working overtime and directly contributed, to the fact that over the past six (6) years, the City lost hundreds of employees, across the board. The loss of hundreds of staff, are creating numerous challenges for the organization, including both brain, and experience drain and the higher costs, are associated with hiring and training, of new employees. Based on our policy of maintaining, minimum staffing levels, in order to ensure our current levels of service, there are no major, across the board Staff Reductions, which are a part, of our Financial Stabilization Strategies. The final portion, PART IV of this message, will be next week. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City, a better place, on my phone/text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can e-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit my Facebook Page: MayorJoyCooper. Like It! Friend It! Share It! < Previous News Next News >

It’s Happening in Hollywood at the ArtsPark This Weekend July 29, 2021 Share The Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts presents the 24th Annual Summer Talent Show "Summer Showcase on the Beach" this Friday night, July 30 at 7 p.m. Enjoy performances by the talented children of Hollywood's Summer Camps as they sing, dance, and act. The Summer Showcase on the Beach is free and lawn seating is available. Please note: ArtsPark Movie Night returns next Friday, August 6th with Toy Story 3 Hollywood ArtsPark Experience: Julian Marley The Hollywood CRA and the City of Hollywood present an evening with Julian Marley on Saturday, July 31st. Julian Marley is the son of reggae legend Bob Marley and Barbados-born Lucy Pounder. Growing up as a youth in a musical atmosphere, the Grammy Award Nominated roots-reggae musician, singer-songwriter, producer and humanitarian quickly adopted a musical lifestyle at an early age and became a skillful, self-taught musician mastering the bass, drums, guitar and keyboards. During Julian’s formative years in Jamaica, he began to study under legendary reggae veterans such as Aston “Family Man” Barrett, Carlton Barrett, Earl “Wire” Lindo, Tyrone Downie and Earl “Chinna” Smith, all of whom inspired the then fledgling song-bird. Since releasing his debut album in 1996, Marley has continued to tour and record, with his own band, and in collaboration with family and reggae legends — always clearly reflecting his roots and heritage. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. with opening sounds by Dubwise. This all-ages show is free with RSVP: www.RhythmFoundation.com/#/events?event_id=42958. Lawn seating is available. Please note, single-use plastics and Styrofoam containers are prohibited at the ArtsPark. Please leave plastic bottles, bags and other single-use plastics at home. Dune Planting Volunteer Opportunity The City of Hollywood is renovating the sand dune at Hayes Street on Hollywood Beach. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, July 31st from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. to plant sea oats in an effort to restore the dune. Children (ages 8 & up) must be accompanied by an adult. Registration by email is required at lpollock@hollywoodfl.org . Stormwater Master Plan Update In-Person & Virtual Community Workshop August 5th - 6 - 7:30 p.m. Hollywood Beach Culture & Community Center, 1301 S. Ocean Drive The Department of Public Utilities is hosting a public workshop to discuss the City's ongoing Stormwater system assessment and flooding mitigation plans where the public will share their past experiences with flooding events in Hollywood as a way to help guide the development of the Stormwater Master Plan. Issues to be discussed: flooding, existing storm systems, water quality, low-lying elevations, effect of climate change, infrastructure and resilience. All are invited to attend either in-person or virtually. Register your virtual attendance visit here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_kCJ679HaQKGA0XPVthuA1g < Previous News Next News >

Down With Big Brother: Warrantless Surveillance Makes A Mockery Of The Constitution Thu May 02 2024 16:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Dania After Dark: Art, Food and S.O.U.L. Are What's In Store Thu Jun 09 2022 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

2025 Black History Month Contests - Receive A 2-Year Florida College Plan Scholarship Aventura Digest January 22, 2025 Share Student essay contest winners will receive a 2-Year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation. This month, the Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida encourage students to participate in the Black History Month student art and essay contests with the theme “Honoring African American Contributions to Florida’s Success.” Black History Month is recognized and celebrated in the United States each year in the month of February. “Florida is committed to teaching students about African American history and the role African Americans have played in Florida’s success,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “I encourage all students to participate in the Black History Month art and essay contests and immerse themselves in Florida’s history.” "Florida goes the extra mile to recognize the immense and historical contributions of African Americans in our great state. We are proud to offer this opportunity each year to recognize outstanding students and educators in Florida for their unique efforts and talents," said Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo. All Florida students are invited to participate in academic and creative contests based on this year's theme. Students in grades K-3 are invited to participate in an art contest, while students in grades 4-12 are invited to participate in an essay contest. Additionally, students, parents, teachers and principals are invited to nominate full-time educators of all student grades for the Black History Month Excellence in Education Award. About the Student Art Contest The Black History Month art contest is open to all kindergarten through third-grade students in Florida. Each student will submit original, two-dimensional artwork based on this year's theme. Four statewide winners will be selected, and each winner will receive a $100 gift card for school supplies and a 1-year pass to Florida State Parks. About the Student Essay Contest The Black History Month essay contest is open to all students attending any Florida school in grades 4-12. Six winners will be selected: two elementary school students from grades 4-5, two middle school students from grades 6-8, and two high school students from grades 9-12. Each winner will receive a 2-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and a $100 gift card for school supplies. Contestants must be Florida residents, attend school in Florida in grades 4-12: including public, charter, private, home or virtual and are able to provide a Social Security Number. Each student may enter only one essay, written in English, no longer than 500 words. There are many examples throughout our state’s history of African Americans and their contributions to Florida’s success. Using your own words, write about an African American who has had an impactful effect whose story should be shared. The subject of the essay should be a Floridian. Some examples are: Lottery Secretary John Davis Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Ray Charles Representative Kiyan Michael About the Excellence in Education Award Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Black History Month Excellence in Education Award Contest is open to all full-time educators in an elementary, middle, or high school in Florida. Four winners will be selected, and nominations may be submitted by a principal, teacher, parent/guardian, or student. Excellence in Education award winners will receive $2,500 from Volunteer Florida. Contest Entries and Nominating Forms and Guidelines Student contest forms and educator nomination forms must be mailed to Volunteer Florida or submitted online at: www.floridablackhistory.com Volunteer Florida Black History Month Committee 1545 Raymond Diehl Road, Suite#: 250 Tallahassee, Florida 32308 All entries must be received by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday, February 3rd, 2025. For more information about the contests, please visit: www.floridablackhistory.com < Previous News Next News >

Father’s Day Fun At Gulfstream Park Village June 15, 2023 Share This Father’s Day, treat dad to a day of fun at Gulfstream Park Village. South Florida’s premier wellness, entertainment and restaurant destination is situated in both Miami-Dade and Broward Counties and anchored by the legendary Gulfstream Park Racetrack. No matter his taste, an array of dining and entertainment options await, including thrilling horse racing, a casino, karaoke, bowling, shopping and more. The open-air shopping center is also home to more than 15 restaurants and bars where guests can enjoy a meal with dad or the father figure in their lives. For dads who are kings of sports, Strike 10 Bowling & Sports Lounge and PlugIN Karaoke provide endless entertainment. Dad can sing his favorite jams from the comfort of his own private karaoke room at PlugIn, or take part in bowling, billiards and arcade games at Strike 10. Both venues include food and drink menus to make it a complete experience. For lunch, dinner, or just a great happy hour, take Dad to Yard House, home to the world’s largest selection of Tap Beers, irresistible bar bites (don’t miss the Poke Nachos!) and the best classic rock playlist in town. Dinnertime celebrations call for a trip to Christine Lee’s for some mouthwatering Asian-inspired dishes, including unparalleled Sushi. Bissaleh is a Kosher dream with unique plates including Salmon Falafel served with Oven-Roasted Eggplant and Fresh Tahini Sauce, Pumpkin Lamb Chops with a Ginger Wine Sauce, plus a host of Vegetarian options, too. For dining with built-in entertainment, Texas de Brazil does not disappoint. Treat Dad to this Brazilian Churrascaria where he can indulge in his favorite cuts of meat served tableside along with a delightful Caipirinha. For dads seeking the latest in fitness fun, the new way to stay fit is Impulse Body Fitness, where guests can burn up to 2,000 calories in 25 minutes. Treat Dad to a thrilling day at Ten Palms this Father’s Day! Gulfstream Park’s Ten Palms Restaurant will be celebrating Father’s Day with a full day of live horse racing. Guests are invited to reserve a table overlooking the track to enjoy a buffet style brunch with complimentary Beers or Mimosas. Tickets to the event are $65 per person. To reserve a table, visit: www.opentable.com Gulfstream Park is open seven days a week and is located at 901 South Federal Highway in Hallandale Beach, Florida, just two miles east of I-95. < Previous News Next News >

Feeling ‘Fine’ Is Not Good Enough: Expert Offers Tips For Elevating Health And Wellness Thu Apr 04 2024 16:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Back To School: Student Safety Is Top Priority In Hallandale Beach By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper August 18, 2022 Share This week, schools opened around our State. It was wonderful going out to Gulfstream Academy K-8 and attending their Community Resource Event. The new/old Principal Carlton Campbell (he used to be the Principal of Hallandale High over 15 years ago) and his staff put together an amazing event with the help of our City and many partners. In addition to Parks and Recreation, our PAL Volunteers were out signing up students. The Hepburn Center was also signing up and arranging transportation for our After School Tutorial Program. This program actually partners directly with the School to ensure that our curriculum matches the curriculum of the School. It’s a great way to have your students work on homework rather than simply going to daycare to play. Plus, the kids do get a chance to enjoy the amenities OB Johnson Park has to offer. Smatts Tennis School was in attendance and gave away 5 scholarships. Broward College Legal Aid, Early Learning Children’s Coalition, Mental Health Partners, Insurance Providers, Family Central, Hispanic Unity and many other County wide Programs were on hand. I also had a chance to meet up with a surprise visitor, Principal Howard from Hallandale High. He too has been busy opening the school. The Hallandale High Marching Band provided opening ceremony entertainment. As always, the students were amazing. Hallandale Beach students can attend school right within our boundaries. We are fortunate to have resources including a Preschool Teacher Training Center right here that also provides daycare. Our local schools like many others are truly in need. They are always looking for volunteers, donations and corporate partnerships. As the saying goes it takes a village. Student Safety With School Violence in the back of every parent’s mind, I was there to reassure every child and parent that our City’s Police Department is committed as always to safety. We also had two officers in attendance as well as our Fire and EMS paid students a visit. We do have SRO's stationed at the schools. More importantly, we continue to invest in High School Active Shooter Training right in our Schools. Commissioner Michele Lazarow and I had the unique honor and privilege to attend the High School Active Shooter Training before break. Not only did we attend, we participated. It is simply amazing and inspiring to see what our officers do on a day to day basis to keep us all safe. We all need to do our part. Last year, we sent a loud message that we will not tolerate School Violence. School Bullying will not go unanswered by Our Police Department. While schools are separate entities, they host all of our children. As a Commission, we take the oath to protect our City and all of its inhabitants very seriously. The last incident at the School was an internal breakdown of all communications. The responsibility does fall on the shoulders of the Principal. We are very fortunate that they have replaced the Principal with a 30-year Veteran. This does not mean there is no work to be done. Parents and teachers need to work together. If your student needs help, they need to ask for it. Teachers need to make sure they are tuned into all of their students. Bullying is really sad and it will never go away. We all know or have been bullied at one time or another. Violence is not the solution and that needs to be taught. Parents make sure you know what your kids are doing online and on their phones. Phones are a privilege you grant. If they are not being respected, take them away. If your child is a victim you need to report incidents to a Teacher, Principal or an SRO. Last meeting, I recognized and declared the month as Suicide Awareness Month. If you see something you need to say something. There are signs. We often see them, but do not say or do anything. Get to know your kids’ friends. If they need mental help, get it for them. If you cannot afford it, there are many resources. A new helpline has been established, “988” is the three-digit, nationwide phone number to connect directly to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. By calling or texting 988, you’ll connect with mental health professionals with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. https://www.fcc.gov/988-suicide-and-crisis-lifeline It was alarming to hear that the large amount of deaths by suicide in children are with guns here in Florida. Gun Violence is real and getting worse. The Suicide Prevention Organization has been distributing gun locks but also bumper stickers. If you think about it, it’s right on point. “IT IS EASIER TO CHILD PROOF YOUR GUN THAN BULLET PROOF YOUR CHILD." Please keep your guns locked. Keep them up and away from your children. Illegal guns will be out there, but how many senseless deaths does it have to take, due to parents letting their kids access firearms? As always, I am available for your questions, concerns and ideas to help make our City a better place. Please feel free to reach out to my office at: (954) 457-1318. On my cell/text at: (954) 632-5700. Or email me at: jcooper@cohb.org < Previous News Next News >

Masters Of Variety: The World's Most Unique Two-Person Circus Show July 18, 2023 Share A fast-paced, high energy circus show for all ages is coming to Aventura...showcasing incredible feats of juggling, hula hoops, unicycle, aerial, circus stunts, contortion, magic and audience interaction all wrapped up in a blanket of comedy. Simply put...the most unique 2-person circus show you will ever see! Recently featured in Hugh Jackman’s hit movie, “The Greatest Showman,” The Great DuBois have amassed an impressive list of credits, including the Tony Award Winning “Pippin” on Broadway, “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “Late Night with David Letterman,” Britney Spears World Circus Tour, and the movie “Burlesque” to highlight just a few. Michael DuBois, a native of Horseheads, New York, was born and raised in this quaint town. From a young age, DuBois displayed a remarkable blend of curiosity, athleticism, and artistic talent, particularly in sports and music. One annual tradition that held special meaning for him was attending the circus with his grandparents. It was during a middle school gym class that he discovered his affinity for juggling, a skill he honed over time. DuBois's journey took him to Penn State University after completing high school. During his time there, he assumed leadership roles in both the Juggling Club and the Magic Club, working closely with his performing partner at the time, Chris Chelko. In due course, he graduated with a Degree in Business Management and Photography, armed with a solid foundation to pursue his dreams. Following his graduation, DuBois and Chelko made a decisive leap into the world of full-time performance, relocating to the bustling city of New York. They captivated audiences at countless private events and universities, leaving an indelible impression with their unique talents. However, in 2009, the duo decided to part ways professionally, propelling DuBois towards his solo career. Undeterred by the new path ahead, DuBois embraced the opportunity to craft his own destiny, debuting his solo show called "Solo Circus." Years of experience as a solo performer molded him into a seasoned entertainer, and he found great joy in his artistic independence. However, fate had something even more extraordinary in store for him. In an exhilarating twist of fate, Michael DuBois found a new partner in life and performance—his wife, Viktoria. With their shared passion for the circus arts, they embarked on an exciting new chapter together. This dynamic duo eagerly anticipated the opportunity to showcase their combined talents in their upcoming show, ushering in a fresh era of creativity and collaboration. Viktoria Grimmy hails from a remarkable lineage of circus performers, spanning five generations. Born into a family deeply entrenched in the circus arts, her roots trace back to the illustrious Soviet Circus. Following an impressive career in Russia, Grimmy's parents sought to broaden their horizons and seize new opportunities in the United States. They made the momentous decision to relocate to New York City. With their sights set on exploration, the Grimmy Family Circus commenced a journey that would take them to private events and, eventually, national tours alongside renowned institutions like The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. As an accomplished aerialist, Grimmy ventured onto the international stage, garnering acclaim with a Bronze Medal at the Monte Carlo Circus Festival and the World Circus Festival in Latina, Italy. In 2009, an extraordinary opportunity presented itself as Viktoria embarked on the Britney Spears World Circus Tour. Showcasing her exceptional talents, she enthralled audiences in the grandest arenas across the globe. Following the tour's conclusion, Grimmy spent two years in Los Angeles before returning to New York City to grace the Broadway stage in the Tony Award-Winning revival of "Pippin." In 2015, a new chapter unfolded as Grimmy joined forces with her husband Michael, creating a sensational two-person circus variety show. Together, they embarked on remarkable ventures, including their involvement in the production of "The Greatest Showman," a cinematic masterpiece starring Hugh Jackman. As Michael DuBois prepares to take the stage alongside his beloved wife, he reflects on his remarkable journey. From his humble beginnings in Horseheads, New York, to his time at Penn State University and his solo endeavors, each step has shaped him into the captivating performer he is today. With Viktoria by his side, their extraordinary bond promises to elevate their artistry to new heights, captivating audiences worldwide. The Award-Winning combination of Michael DuBois and Viktoria Grimmy have five generations of circus performing between them, a spectacular theatrical set for proscenium stages, and have performed countless shows at theaters, universities, cruise ships, fairs and festivals all over the world. The Great DuBois will perform at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center on Saturday, February 10th, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. and at 7:00 p.m. Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. You can purchase 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. Parking Free parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

"Priceless" Takeaways: TikTok Phenom Urges Gen Zers To Make Bold Money Moves in 2023 By Joyce R. Forchion - LOVE Aventura February 3, 2023 Share A 22-year-old visionary TikTok creator is trending on the platform to the tune of 1.1 million followers. Taylor Price, a witty, self-taught financial activist, is focused on empowering her fellow Gen Z followers through @Pricelesstay, a personal finance platform aimed to teach her peers to prioritize financial literacy and increase their “FIQ,” or Financial IQ. Now that tax season is upon us, Price is reframing the way in which her generation views money. “Sharing the financial literacy tips I learned over time has always been the focus for me,” said Price. “In my videos, I always want to be myself and represent what feels right and real to me. I tell my followers that along with purple, green has always been my favorite color. I speak to many “young” people who have no idea of where to begin the journey– how to get on the road to financial independence– so I always bring them back to the color green and why it represents such a powerful theme not only when it comes to money, but also in each and every one of our lives. No matter where you stand financially, know that through education and investment in yourself, there can be greener pastures– literally like greener as in more money.” In an age characterized by The Great Resignation and “Quiet Quitting,” Price acknowledges the hopeless sensibilities that many Gen Z professionals maintain regarding making money and pursuing their current careers. However, she shares three takeaways that have alleviated her doubts on her personal financial journey, and hopes that her peers apply the advice to their own lives. 1. Start right where you are. Price shares that many of her followers have reached out to her for advice on smart investing, credit scores, and personal savings. “I always tell anyone in this predicament to simply start where you are. Some of my followers are working with less than $100 in the bank. This doesn’t disqualify them from exploring a game plan– with solid dates and deadlines– for alleviating a debt snowball. In fact, even $5 can go a long way in terms of starting a savings account or making a commitment to pay off a bill.” 2. Seek a holistic balance between your work life and personal life. Price has coined her personal philosophy to managing personal finance as Fin/Esse, which speaks to designating financial essentials in a holistic way that factors in all aspects of life pertaining to money or other personal goals. She hopes that her network of followers adapts the same balanced approach to their financial goals. “Unbeknownst to many, I suffer Scoliosis and Lupus, which prevents me from working during traditional 9-5 hours each day. My schedule must not only allow for flexibility and balance within my schedule, but in my bank account as well. Maintaining a robust emergency fund is paramount for me, along with documenting all of my savings and investment goals while weighing the pros and cons for each one. Writing everything down and then seeing what works and what doesn’t has been vital in balancing my budget, and identifying areas that need more attention and improvement.” 3. Recognize the infinite possibilities that await you on your financial journey. Though Price’s TikTok career - which was launched in 2019 - brought about widespread notoriety, her recognition as an influencer has also been accompanied by harsh critiques and ridicule from veterans in the personal finance industry. Nevertheless, she persevered and branched out into new lanes, such as creating her own podcast and establishing a weekly newsletter community. “In this instance, I use my real-world knowledge and youthful perspective to my advantage because I know that I can express myself, and the tenets of finance, in a way in which my generation would both understand and relate to. Once an individual is equipped with the knowledge to obtain financial freedom and self-sufficiency, the opportunities to make more money become endless.” Learn more about Taylor Price and her Gen Z brand of personal finance advocacy on her vibrant TikTok platform, and her most recent media segments can also be found on her Instagram and YouTube and Twitter profiles. For more information, Price encourages you to visit: www.pricelesstay.com LOVE, AVENTURA. A column celebrating the heart, soul and culture of our community. < Previous News Next News >