Haute For Summer: Style Finds For The Season By Merilee Kern, MBA Jul 30, 2025 Summer Is The Season Of Self-Expression—Where Sunshine, Travel And Social Events Call For Effortless Style With High-Impact Appeal. Whether You're Looking To Elevate Your Everyday Wear, Find The Perfect Accessories For A Getaway, Or Gift Something Thoughtful And Trend-Forward, This Curated Collection Has You Covered. From Artisanal Jewelry And Fashion-Forward Footwear To Functional Lifestyle Finds, These Standout Picks Strike The Ideal Balance Between Chic And Practical—Making Them A Great Get For Summer Wardrobes And Beyond. For Her: The Vida Half D’Orsay Pump from Antonia Saint NY Strut with style and comfort this season and beyond in the Vida Half D'Orsay Pump from Antonia Saint NY. When you want a sexy cut-out at the arch of the foot and a graceful curved topline, this chic shoe is for you. Set on a 90MM angled heel, the elegant style of this pump is crafted in supple fabrications and innovative shoe-tech that provides supreme comfort. The Vida heels are built with Antonia Saint NY’s newly refined Slim SoftSurround System—a patented technology that creates a soft, forming cushioning around the whole foot, providing ample support for all areas of pressure. Combined with more flexible foam insole and outsole, this design provides cushioning you’d never expect in such a high heel. The pointed toe and attractive lower-cut vamp showcase a timeless look for a beautiful finish. Plus, the expertly placed curves reveal the foot's beautiful shape, exuding confident power with every step. Colors available range from Karma Snakeskin Emboss, Black Nappa Leather, Jute Nappa Leather, and Black Patent Leather. This company’s all-inclusive sizing—ranging from 4 - 13 in narrow, standard, wide and wider—makes sure everyone can sashay with their fiercest foot forward. ( https://antoniasaintny.com ) Artisan Silver Hand-Sculpted Rose Pendant Necklace from Jester Swink Here’s an accessory idea that blends timeless elegance with a feminine aesthetic that’s subtle and sophisticated. The Artisan Silver Hand-Sculpted Rose Pendant Necklace from Jester Swink is a lovely gift or get, blending the enduring beauty of nature with everlasting love. Roses make an ideal summer style statement thanks to their timeless symbolism, vibrant colors, and seasonal relevance. Long associated with love, beauty, and elegance, roses evoke a romantic, feminine energy that aligns perfectly with the carefree spirit of summer. Handcrafted with care, each rose is uniquely sculpted, making every piece one of a kind. This pretty pendant will serve as a lasting reminder of your affection, symbolizing a love that never fades. No assembly line here. Each necklace is made to order, crafted with attention to detail and is designed especially for the customer, which is exactly the mission behind Jester Swink’s brand. The creator aimed to avoid fast-fashion shortcuts by slowing down the process, offering customers lasting work with intention, not urgency. The result: Every piece is made by hand using natural materials and sustainable practices. All products are handmade in the Santa Cruz mountains in California. From mixed metal necklaces and artisan earrings, to natural wall hangings and ceramic wind catchers, every Jester Swink piece is designed to inspire tranquility, expression and joy. As a perennial trend in summer fashion, florals remain popular, and rose patterns offer a perfect balance of vintage charm and modern glamour, appearing across everything from floaty casual dresses to elevated statement looks. ( https://jesterswink.com ) Hammered Doorknocker Earrings from Patricia Nash Let your inner light shine throughout with the Hammered Doorknocker Earrings from Patricia Nash Designs. While known for finely crafted handbags using 100% full grain leather, Patricia Nash Designs has delved into many other fashion sectors including footwear, men's accessories, home decor, knitwear, sunglasses and, now, jewelry. These pure formation inspired earrings—approximately. 2 1/2" drop x 1 1/2" width in size, paying homage to timeless style and the natural beauty around us. The hammered texture of these doorknocker earrings reflects light beautifully, adding intricate dimension and depth. With their iconic doorknocker shape, they're perfect for both day and night, bringing a touch of glamour to any outfit. Some of its features include metal plated material made with zinc alloy and brass, posts with a bullet/disc back, nickel free materials, and delivery in a luxe protective pouch. These earrings come in two color ways including, Worn Gold/Silver Ox and Silver Ox. These statement earrings compliment nearly any and all attire, whether you’re enjoying summer tropical travels, romantic date nights, or coastal cruising. Inspired by classic vintage design and her extensive travels, Founder and style icon Patricia Nash has crafted this piece for the fashionista who lives life big, bold, and lavishly. ( https://patricianashdesigns.com ) For Him: Sunday Swagger's ‘Polos with Personality’ Whether you're chasing birdies or just showing up in style, this go-to gear is for a good time all year round. Sunday Swagger's "polos with personality" are great for summer, golf, travel and warmer weather. Crafted from a breathable, four-way stretch poly-spandex blend, these moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant polos provide UPF 40 sun protection—perfect to keep you cool in that summer heat. The premium hats offer both style and functionality, with moisture-wicking technology in classic and modern designs to complement any outfit. Sunday Swagger's inclusive sizing, playful prints, and breathable fabric make the line’s clothes a great gift option and a fun way to match as a family, couple or group. The company has created more than 300 distinctive and unique designs in men’s, women’s, and youth polos, t-shirts, hats and outerwear, and when a particular print sells out, Sunday Swagger quickly pivots to unveil new styles. Sunday Swagger crafts its products in its Southern California headquarters for aficionados of fun around the world. ( https://sundayswagger.com ) Oxy Originals Footwear Amid the Father’s Day holiday, here’s a timely find. Guys can step into the summer season in style with Oxy Originals' lightweight, breathable and oh-so-comfortable footwear—perfect for the warmer temps. Created with everyday wear in mind, the Oxy Originals is just what feet need for a full day of adventures. The brand pioneered the use of microfiber in shoes, resulting in durability, flexibility and breathability. Its Originals Sport Collection for women, men and kids is the brand’s iconic look, but every shoe is Oxy Originals distilled to its core—style, comfort and ease of use are all at the forefront of these designs. The brand’s Hercules Black Dress Shoe are a particularly nice option to pair with both casual and formal looks. Unlike typical brogues, oxfords and even some loafers that can be painful, tiring and uncomfortable to wear, Oxy Originals’ handsome and stately rendition brings unparalleled comfort to the classic style. This by strategically infusing rubber sections into the outsole, among other mindful features. Other popular Oxy Originals styles include the Light, Basic, Expedition, Explorer, Escape, Alpine and Portofino—ranging from the company’s take on tennis shoes and flip flops to elegant driving shoes. After all, that’s the mission behind the global company: timeless designs infused with modern technologies that add a little kick to owners’ everyday outfits and a lot of comfort to their lives. Whatever dad’s speed, you’ll find Oxy Originals is the perfect partner for their active, contemporary lifestyle. ( https://www.oxyoriginals.com ) Setter Fifty Oxford from Irish Setter Boots The “Setter Fifty” Irish Setter Boots desire are a casual footwear option that combines timeless craftsmanship with modern innovation. Inspired by the original Irish Setter hunting boots of the 1950’s, this collection stays true to its roots with signature moc-toe stitching and the classic white wedge sole, now enhanced with the company’s sustainable “Extralight” technology in the sole for a remarkably lightweight, cushiony feel. The oxford features a rich brown nubuck leather upper that comfortably wraps around the foot. The leather is sourced from tanneries with top-tier quality and responsible production standards. A breathable, stretch nylon collar adds ankle support, while the CuShin tongue reduces pressure and pinching on the ankle. Built with Goodyear welt construction, Setter Fifty boots and shoes offer long-lasting durability. Sustainability is woven into every step, from the recycled materials in the outsole to the eco-conscious leather sourcing. The Irish Setter brand, part of Red Wing Shoe Company, is known for its dedication to quality, comfort and durability. The Setter Fifty collection of casual footwear includes this oxford and an array of chukka height boots as well as women’s styles perfect for dressing up or down, season after season. ( https://www.irishsetterboots.com ) For Everyone: The Playamigo Portable Lounger with Storage Meet Playamigo—the new go-to summer style-on-the-go companion perfect for those who love to lounge at the beach or park. Available in three colors, this sleek and versatile portable chair is designed with integrated carrying capacity, making it easy for outdoor enthusiasts to unwind without the hassle of hauling bulky gear to their next picnic, beach day, or concert. Playamigo’s innovative wedge-shaped lounger features an internal frame that provides structural support while reclining, yet remains lightweight, comfortable to carry, and easy to maneuver. Weighing under 5 pounds, it can be worn as a backpack, crossbody, or over the shoulder—depending on the user’s preference. It’s also collapsible, making it easy to pack in a suitcase or stow away, and includes a fold-out mat for extra stretching room during use. Adventurers can rest easy knowing their Playamigo is both durable and multifunctional, thanks to a variety of thoughtful features: a removable zippered pouch to protect valuables, elastic straps to secure items, a large padded pocket on the back for electronics, magazines, or newspapers, and exterior zippered pockets to keep frequently used items within reach. The brand is so confident you’ll love Playamigo that it proudly backs the product with a 30-day money-back guarantee. ( https://www.theplayamigo.com/ ) BoneSoundz Aware Headphones Your safety shouldn’t come at the cost of your music. Whether you're running at dawn, cycling through the city, or walking home at night, BoneSoundz Aware Headphones keep you connected to your surroundings while delivering rich, immersive sound through cutting-edge bone-conduction technology. By transmitting audio through your cheekbones, your ears stay open to ambient noise—perfect for staying alert in any environment. Designed for all-day comfort, these lightweight headphones feature Flexi-fit technology for a secure, comfortable fit, along with an Aware light-up band to boost your visibility in low-light conditions. With 32GB of internal storage, you can take your favorite tracks anywhere—no phone required—and Bluetooth 5.3 ensures seamless wireless connectivity when you do want to pair. The water-resistant design stands up to sweat and rain, while the 10-hour battery life keeps the music going from morning workouts to evening commutes. Compact and portable, BoneSoundz Aware headphones come in Black, Grey, Blue, or Red and include two magnetic fast-charging cables and a sleek carry case. ( https://bonesoundz.com ) Previous Next

AI Surveillance: Nothing That Was Once Private Is Protected Thu Aug 18 2022 04:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The 411 On 511: Innovative Spirits, Live Music, Food Trucks, and More June 21, 2024 Share Located in the charming and hip Flagler Village, 511 Bar & Lounge is Fort Lauderdale’s newly-opened hub for whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts. The bar and lounge offers live music, food trucks, themed programming, large-format events, and more. Since quietly opening in Spring 2024, 511 Bar has already become a neighborhood haunt, boasting a sexy and industrial interior and a trendy, backyard patio with lawn games, twinkle lights, and ample seating underneath umbrellas. “We have all been a part of the Fort Lauderdale bar and hospitality scene for over 30 years, collectively, so when we decided to open 511 Bar & Lounge together it was truly more of a passion project than anything else,” says co-owner Digby Nothard. “It was important for us to create a space that reflects and compliments the Flagler Village community with great quality cocktails, each made with a two-ounce pour of love, lots of local brands and brews, and a welcoming atmosphere where guests can kick back with friends, their dogs and just enjoy.” Created by co-owner Trent O’Connor – known from Maryland’s historic “The Horse You Came In on Saloon,” and Fort Lauderdale’s “Whiskey Neat” – the cocktail menu is his love letter to Fort Lauderdale, filled with traditional and unique creations. Among them, the Mimi: Don Julio Blanco, fresh mango, lime, muddled jalapeno with a Tajin rim; Pretty in Pink: Partida Reposado Tequila, Aperol, freshly squeezed grapefruit and lime juice topped with Q Mixers club soda; KB Special: Espolon Reposado Tequila, Orange Liqueur, agave, freshly squeezed lime and orange juice, cream of coconut and orange zest; and a bevy of freshly made from scratch Margaritas available with a flavor upgrade of mango, peach, prickly pear, passion fruit, strawberry or watermelon. The bar also serves the Baltimore-originating Crush Cocktail made from the fresh juice of one whole orange or lemon; perfect for combating the SoFlo heat! Guests can order the traditional Orange Crush: Deep Eddy’s Orange Vodka and fresh squeezed orange juice, served over crushed ice and topped with Sprite or Peach Lemonade Crush, made with Bulleit Bourbon, peach nectar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, served over crushed ice and topped with Sprite. Additional 511 Bar signatures sure to please include the 511 Seasonal Whiskey Smash, made with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, fresh seasonal fruit, lemon, and mint; and the OG Woodford Reserve Rye Old Fashioned with Filthy cherries, cane sugar, and black walnut bitters. 511 Bar is a whiskey lover’s paradise with an extensive bottle list as well as various tasting options. You’ll also find several local spirits on hand as well as regional craft beers on tap. Of course, red, white, and sparkling wines are also available. The 1,500 sq ft space is filled with work by local artists, including an eye-catching pixelated Everglades landscape by Peter Nolan that anchors the bar. The inside bar flows seamlessly into the 2,500 sq ft outdoor patio that seats 30 people. There, guests can enjoy awesome bites from a rotating roster of food trucks, including BMC Smash Burger, La Condensa Tacos, Mambas Pizza, Duck Fat Dogs, Mr. Meatball, Bohemian Grill, Carlo’s and Pepe’s, and more; a diverse range of tempting street food artisans that pairs perfectly with 511’s pours. Patrons visiting every Wednesday through Friday from 4PM to 7PM can look forward to Happy Hour specials, including $6 Premium Well Liquor, $7 Fresh Margaritas, and $8 Orange, Ruby Red Grapefruit, and John Daly Crushes with discounted beer and wine by the glass. Live music takes center stage every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, featuring a bevy of local bands and DJs playing everything from classic rock and blues to, 80’s classic rock, soul, electronic, and more. Add O’Connor, “We strongly believe that live music and entertainment is the heartbeat of Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant nightlife. It brings our community together, creating unforgettable moments and an electrifying atmosphere that reflects the spirit of our city. This is why we are committed to showcasing incredible local talent and providing a stage where local artists can shine." In addition to the outdoor patio, 511 Bar also owns the 13,000 sqft space behind the restaurant where large-scale events are held. 511 Bar promises to be an activated space bringing recurring monthly themed events such as Jazz & Blues Nights, Country Nights, and more with corresponding themed food truck vendors, sponsors, and live music talent. Stop by 511 Bar on Friday, July 5th, from 7PM to 10PM for “Flagler Goes Country,” partnered with Garrison Bros Whiskey. Guests can look forward to live country performances, great BBQ, cigar rollers, quality whiskey, and more. 511 Bar is open Fridays and Saturdays from 4PM to 1AM; and Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 4PM to 12AM. 511 Bar & Lounge is located at: 511 NE 3rd Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. Telephone: (954) 401-0450. For more information follow along on social media via @511bar. < Previous News Next News >

Millions Of Mobile Gamers Prize Stress Relief Over Winning By Sheeka Sanahori Sep 10, 2026 In The School's Car Pickup Line, Five Minutes Before It Starts Moving. In The Doctor's Office Waiting Room For An Appointment That You've Been Heavily Anticipating. In Bed, Just Before Going To Sleep. In These Transitional Moments, Many People Reach For Their Phones - Not To Scroll, But To Play. According to a June 2026 survey of more than 128,000 KashKick mobile gamers, playing a mobile game is more than a way to pass the time. Stress relief and relaxation are the top reasons respondents play, beating out entertainment and fun. As KashKick reports, for many people, this means mobile games are less a simple distraction and more a coping mechanism for the daily stress of life. A quick reset for life's transitional moments Most respondents identify as women, and 60% live in households that earn less than $50,000 per year. In the ranking of their reasons for playing, stress relief and relaxation topped the list, with boredom relief, entertainment and fun close behind. The ranking reads less like a profile of a gaming hobby and more like a profile of a coping behavior. More than half of the respondents play games daily or multiple times a day. When they reach for a mobile game, about 53% of the time it's for a short session-usually 30 minutes or less. Where and when people play tells its own story: 58% play in bed before going to sleep and 40% play in the bathroom. These are private, solitary moments, not the times people typically plan entertainment into their day. Coping with stress by gaming To understand why respondents play games for stress relief more than for fun, it helps to look at who they are. Among those surveyed, 19% say they're unemployed or looking for work, and 60% live in lower-income households. There are likely some areas of their life where they must make every dollar stretch to cover the things they need. The survey findings coincide with research from the American Psychological Association's 2025 Stress in America report. According to the report, 18% of men and 22% of women under age 65 rate their stress level at eight or higher on a scale of one to 10. Although the KashKick survey didn't measure stress, respondents are mostly women and fall within the age and income groups the APA found to carry the most stress. The APA's report also describes loneliness as a major strain for Americans. The KashKick survey didn't measure feelings of isolation, but 55% prefer to play alone, and 60% rarely or never discuss their gameplay with friends or family. Overall, the survey identifies a group of people who have found a routine, low-cost approach to cope with stress. They're not necessarily there to get the highest score. They're playing a mobile game to help them navigate a day that, with all of life's to-dos and challenges, could quickly feel overwhelming. Methodology The KashKick Gaming Habits Survey was fielded from June 8, 2026, through August 10, 2026, among KashKick members in the United States who play mobile games. The Gaming Habits Survey was available to all members on KashKick's Surveys page post-profile completion. The survey received 128,218 total responses, with question-level response counts ranging from approximately 109,793 to 128,218 depending on attrition. All findings describe KashKick mobile gamers and should not be interpreted as representative of U.S. mobile gamers overall. Industry and stress context references publicly available data from the American Psychological Association, Statista, and Newzoo. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Previous Next

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 >

The Miami Premiere Of POTUS...Tony Award-Nominated Comedy About The Women In Charge Of The Man In Charge Of The Free World Wed Dec 25 2024 19:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Sterling Aventura Holds An Open House: A Glimpse Into A Life Of Joy And Purpose Aventura Digest Jun 18, 2025 Nestled In The Heart Of Aventura, The Sterling Aventura Is A Vibrant And Welcoming Rental Assisted Living And Memory Care Community, Where Residents Can Thrive In A Stimulating And Supportive Environment. Recently, The Sterling Aventura Opened Its Doors To The Public With A Special Open House Event, Inviting Friends, Families, And The Community To Experience Firsthand The Warmth And Care That Defines This Remarkable Facility. A New Look for a New Chapter During the open house, attendees were given an exclusive tour of the newly remodeled Assisted Living. These updated living spaces, including charming studio apartments and the spacious one-bedroom Assisted Living & Memory Care apartments, offer residents a place to call home. The Sterling Aventura also introduced brand-new Penthouse Suites, which provide luxury living in a setting designed for comfort and safety. One of the standout features of these newly remodeled spaces is the opportunity for personalization. Residents have the ability to decorate and arrange their apartments to match their individual preferences, ensuring that their living environment feels like a true extension of themselves. In addition to the apartments, the community boasts a range of services and amenities designed to cater to every need. Whether it’s assistance with daily activities, engaging in arts and crafts, or enjoying gourmet meals prepared by the community’s talented chef, The Sterling Aventura is dedicated to offering its residents the best in both care and comfort. The Importance of Memory Care Communities As we age, the need for specialized care becomes increasingly important. For those living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of Dementia, in-home care may not be the ideal solution. While many seniors express a desire to remain in their homes as long as possible—according to a survey by AARP, over 95% of seniors share this sentiment—the reality is that managing the needs of a loved one with cognitive challenges can be overwhelming. This is where memory care communities like The Sterling Aventura shine. Unlike traditional in-home care, which can be difficult to navigate for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other Dementias, The Sterling Aventura offers an environment designed to meet the unique needs of these residents. With around-the-clock staffing, personalized care programs, and a safe, secure environment, residents receive the specialized attention they require to lead a fulfilling life. For families considering care options for loved ones, the decision between in-home care and memory care can be daunting. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each choice, and The Sterling Aventura provides a compelling case for community living. Cost: While the average cost of 24/7 in-home care can range from $8,000 to $12,000 per month, depending on the level of care required, these expenses do not include the additional costs of homeownership or renting, such as taxes, utilities, and upkeep. In contrast, monthly costs at The Sterling Aventura range from $3,900 (for assisted Living) and from $5750 for (Memory care). Socialization & Activities: At home, seniors can often feel isolated, particularly if family members are unable to provide constant companionship. In a community setting like The Sterling Aventura, residents enjoy numerous opportunities to engage with others. The community features a large, open-concept dining room, kitchen, and living areas designed to foster interaction. There is also an arts and crafts studio, where residents can explore their creative side, as well as a full lineup of social, educational, and recreational activities tailored to their interests. Dining & Nutrition: One of the most significant advantages of life at The Sterling Aventura is the dining experience. While in-home care often involves pre-packaged meals or eating alone, The Sterling Aventura offers residents a family-style dining experience where they can enjoy freshly prepared, nutritious meals. The community’s gourmet chef works with locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that not only satisfy the palate but also provide essential nutrients that support overall well-being. Staffing & Secured Setting: In-home care requires constant oversight from family members to ensure caregivers are qualified and show up as scheduled. This can lead to anxiety about the quality of care and whether help will be available in an emergency. At The Sterling Aventura, residents are supported by an on-site team of skilled memory caregivers and a nurse available 24/7. In the intimate memory care neighborhoods, residents are cared for in a secured environment where they feel safe, valued, and understood. A Memory Care Program That Makes a Difference For individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of Dementia, The Sterling Aventura offers the Heartfelt CONNECTIONS memory care program. This specialized program promotes physical and emotional well-being while supporting daily functioning and maintaining a sense of dignity and purpose. The program is designed to foster connections—between residents, staff, and the community—helping each individual find joy in even the smallest moments. The Heartfelt CONNECTIONS program is more than just care—it’s a philosophy of compassion that emphasizes the importance of emotional support, sensory engagement, and social interaction. By focusing on the person rather than just their condition, this program helps individuals maintain a high quality of life, no matter where they are on their journey. If you or a loved one are considering assisted living or memory care, The Sterling Aventura invites you to experience all that it has to offer. The team is available to answer questions, provide further details about the services and amenities, and help you schedule a personal tour. To learn more or to schedule a visit, call The Sterling Aventura at: (305) 918-0000 - https://thesterlingaventura.com . Take the first step toward discovering a community that’s more than just a place to live—it's a place to thrive. Previous Next

Dystopia Disguised as Democracy: All the Ways in Which Freedom Is an Illusion By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead February 17, 2022 Share “The illusion of freedom will continue as long as it’s profitable to continue the illusion. At the point where the illusion becomes too expensive to maintain, they will just take down the scenery, they will pull back the curtains, they will move the tables and chairs out of the way and you will see the brick wall at the back of the theater.”— Frank Zappa We are no longer free. We are living in a world carefully crafted to resemble a representative democracy, but it’s an illusion. We think we have the freedom to elect our leaders, but we’re only allowed to participate in the reassurance ritual of voting. There can be no true electoral choice or real representation when we’re limited in our options to one of two candidates culled from two parties that both march in lockstep with the Deep State and answer to an oligarchic elite. We think we have freedom of speech, but we’re only as free to speak as the government and its corporate partners allow. We think we have the right to freely exercise our religious beliefs, but those rights are quickly overruled if and when they conflict with the government’s priorities, whether it’s COVID-19 mandates or societal values about gender equality, sex and marriage. We think we have the freedom to go where we want and move about freely, but at every turn, we’re hemmed in by laws, fines and penalties that regulate and restrict our autonomy, and surveillance cameras that monitor our movements. We think we have property interests in our homes and our bodies, but there can be no such freedom when the government can seize your property, raid your home, and dictate what you do with your bodies. We think we have the freedom to defend ourselves against outside threats, but there is no right to self-defense against militarized police who are authorized to probe, poke, pinch, taser, search, seize, strip and generally manhandle anyone they see fit in almost any circumstance, and granted immunity from accountability with the general blessing of the courts. We think we have the right to an assumption of innocence until we are proven guilty, but that burden of proof has been turned on its head by a surveillance state that renders us all suspects and overcriminalization which renders us all lawbreakers. Police-run facial recognition software that mistakenly labels law-abiding citizens as criminals. A social credit system (similar to China’s) that rewards behavior deemed “acceptable” and punishes behavior the government and its corporate allies find offensive, illegal or inappropriate. We think we have the right to due process, but that assurance of justice has been stripped of its power by a judicial system hardwired to act as judge, jury and jailer, leaving us with little recourse for appeal. A perfect example of this rush to judgment can be found in the proliferation of profit-driven speed and red light cameras that do little for safety while padding the pockets of government agencies. We have been saddled with a government that pays lip service to the nation’s freedom principles while working overtime to shred the Constitution. By gradually whittling away at our freedoms—free speech, assembly, due process, privacy, etc.—the government has, in effect, liberated itself from its contractual agreement to respect the constitutional rights of the citizenry. Under the new terms of this revised, one-sided agreement, the government and its many operatives have all the privileges and rights and “we the people” have none. Sold on the idea that safety, security and material comforts are preferable to freedom, we’ve allowed the government to pave over the Constitution in order to erect a concentration camp. The problem with these devil’s bargains, however, is that there is always a catch, always a price to pay for whatever it is we valued so highly as to barter away our most precious possessions. We’ve bartered away our right to self-governance, self-defense, privacy, autonomy and that most important right of all: the right to tell the government to “leave me the hell alone.” In exchange for the promise of safe streets, safe schools, blight-free neighborhoods, lower taxes, lower crime rates, and readily accessible technology, health care, water, food and power, we’ve opened the door to militarized police, government surveillance, asset forfeiture, school zero tolerance policies, license plate readers, red light cameras, SWAT team raids, health care mandates, overcriminalization and government corruption. In the end, such bargains always turn sour. We asked our lawmakers to be tough on crime, and we’ve been saddled with an abundance of laws that criminalize almost every aspect of our lives. So far, we’re up to 4500 criminal laws and 300,000 criminal regulations that result in average Americans unknowingly engaging in criminal acts at least three times a day. We wanted criminals taken off the streets, and we didn’t want to have to pay for their incarceration. What we’ve gotten is a nation that boasts the highest incarceration rate in the world, with more than 2.3 million people locked up, many of them doing time for relatively minor, nonviolent crimes, and a private prison industry fueling the drive for more inmates, who are forced to provide corporations with cheap labor. We wanted law enforcement agencies to have the necessary resources to fight the nation’s wars on terror, crime and drugs. What we got instead were militarized police decked out with M-16 rifles, grenade launchers, silencers, battle tanks and hollow point bullets—gear designed for the battlefield, more than 80,000 SWAT team raids carried out every year (many for routine police tasks, resulting in losses of life and property), and profit-driven schemes that add to the government’s largesse such as asset forfeiture, where police seize property from “suspected criminals.” We fell for the government’s promise of safer roads, only to find ourselves caught in a tangle of profit-driven red-light cameras, which ticket unsuspecting drivers in the so-called name of road safety while ostensibly fattening the coffers of local and state governments. Despite widespread public opposition, corruption and systemic malfunctions, these cameras are particularly popular with municipalities, which look to them as an easy means of extra cash. We’re being subjected to the oldest con game in the books, the magician’s sleight of hand that keeps you focused on the shell game in front of you while your wallet is being picked clean by ruffians in your midst. This is how tyranny rises and freedom falls. With every new law enacted by federal and state legislatures, every new ruling handed down by government courts, and every new military weapon, invasive tactic and egregious protocol employed by government agents, “we the people” are being reminded that we possess no rights except for that which the government grants on an as-needed basis. We can no longer maintain the illusion of freedom. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, “we the people” have become “we the prisoners.” Editor’s Note: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 >

Calling All Parents: Disney Is Coming To Broward For A Fun Year Ahead September 29, 2022 Share Are your kids big Disney Fans? If so you're in luck and you won't have to travel far. There will be lots of ways to celebrate Disney's favorite characters with your family this year with Disney-inspired events at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Parker. In addition, there will be a sensory-inclusive performance that creates a welcoming and supporting environment for the neurodiverse community at the Broward Center. Up first is Disney in Concert with a screening of Tim Burton’s haunting holiday classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas. Danny Elfman’s score will be performed live with the film by the South Florida Symphony Orchestra. For those of you who haven't seen this holiday classic from the mind of Tim Burton comes the story of Jack Skellington, Halloweentown's pumpkin king, who plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role after he accidentally stumbles on Christmastown. But Jack soon discovers even the best-laid plans of mice and skeleton men can go seriously awry. The Broward Center in partnership with South Florida Symphony Orchestra presents this event as part of the 2022/2023 Broward Center Dance and Classical Series. The screening will be held in the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, October 28th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $45-$75 with $160 Spirit Club Level tickets and $85 VIP Tickets offering premium seating. The all-new Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza is up next. Beloved Disney Junior characters and favorite Marvel Super Heroes are together live on stage for a jam-packed, concert style show with singing, dancing, acrobatics and more. With favorite songs from the hit Disney Junior Series, as well as new original music, Mickey, Minnie and their pals are getting ready to throw a huge costume party but mysterious green rain, wind and smoke keep interrupting the fun. Can Spidey and his Amazing Friends help save the Costume Palooza? This family friendly event is part of The Islands of The Bahamas Imagination Series. The event will be held at the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, November 19th, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. noon and 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $25-$65 with $10 lap Tickets for children 12 months of age and younger. VIP Packages are $157.50 and $175 offering exclusives. Disney's Winnie The Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation comes to Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker on Sunday, February 12th, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. In a new story from the Hundred Acre Wood, told with stunning life-size puppetry through the eyes of the characters we all know and love, this fresh stage adaptation features the Sherman Brothers' classic GRAMMY®-Award-Winning music with additional songs by A.A. Milne. Deep. In the Hundred Acre Wood, a new adventure is about to begin with Disney's Iconic Winnie The Pooh, Christopher Robin and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga Roo, Rabbit, Owl and Tigger, too! Winnie The Pooh: The New Musical Adaptation is developed and presented by renowned family entertainment creator Jonathan Rockefeller and produced in association with Disney Theatrical Productions. Tickets are $25-$45 with $10 lap Tickets for children 12 months of age and younger and $100 VIP Tickets that include photos on stage with select characters after the show and other exclusives. One of the most popular Disney movies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole new way. Cameron Macintosh and Disney’s Mary Poppins comes to the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in the Slow Burn Theatre Company production Saturday, March 25th, 2023 - Sunday, April 9th, 2023. Everyone's favorite, practically perfect nanny will take audiences on a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure. Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney Film, Mary Poppins, the musical delighted Broadway audiences during more than 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Get ready to experience an enchanting mixture of an irresistible story, unforgettable songs, breathtaking dance numbers and astonishing stagecraft that will mesmerize audiences of all ages. Performance times vary, Tickets are $49-$65. Slow Burn Theatre Company returns with the Tony Award-Winning Disney’s Newsies: The Broadway Musical in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts from Saturday, June 10th, 2023 - Sunday, June 25th, 2023. Set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged "newsies." When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys' expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what's right. Based on the 1992 Motion Picture and inspired by a true story, Newsies features a Tony Award Winning Score by Alan Menken: Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act, Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award Winner Harvey Fierstein, Kinky Boots. Featuring the now classic songs: "Carrying The Banner," "Seize The Day" and "Santa Fe," Newsies is packed with non-stop thrills perfect for the whole family. Performance times vary, Tickets are $49-$65. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org , At: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com Or at: www.ticketmaster.com ; By phone at: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. The Parker is an affiliated Venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. < Previous News Next News >

The Hallandale Beach Food & Groove Is Back: Gulfstream Park to Host Hallandale Beach Food & Groove: A Wine, Food and Art Experience, Part of SOBEWFF, on Feb 25 Thu Feb 16 2023 17:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

It's Sea Turtle Nesting Season By City of Hollywood Mar 19, 2026 Sea Turtle Nesting Season Takes Place Every Year From March 1st Through October 31st. During This Time, The City Of Hollywood’s “Turtle Friendly Lighting Ordinance” Is In Effect, When The City’s Hatchlings Are Attracted To Light. In An Urban Beach Environment, Artificial Light From Buildings Can Disorient Hatchlings And Attract Them Away From The Ocean. Turtle Friendly Lighting Can Minimize Disorientation And Make Hollywood Beach More Hospitable To These Endangered Species. The Broward County Sea Turtle Conservation Program (BCSTCP) documented 3,341 nests on the County's 24-mile coastline (including the Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park) in 2025. Our beach is the desired nesting habitat for three species of endangered sea turtles: leatherbacks, loggerheads, and greens. It is vital that everyone does their part to ensure future successful nesting seasons on Hollywood Beach. Sea Turtle Friendly Lighting Lighting near the beach should be "sea turtle-friendly" and follow these three criteria established by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): Keep it low: • Fixtures should be mounted as low as possible to achieve their purpose • Fixtures/bulbs should produce the lowest lumens (light output) necessary for the task Keep it shielded: • The bulb, lamp or glowing lens should be shielded from the beach • Interior lights should not be visible from the beach • Close curtains, shades and blinds after sunset Keep it long (wavelength): • Fixtures/bulbs must produce long wavelength light (560 nm or longer) without filters, gels or lenses • Amber and red LEDs are good examples of these types of light Also keep in mind that even lights from cell phones can also disturb nesting and hatchling sea turtles. If you visit the beach at night during nesting season, keep your cell phone safely stowed in your pocket or bag. Turtle Friendly Lighting Recognition Program The City of Hollywood has a Turtle Friendly Lighting Recognition Program to increase awareness and compliance with the City’s turtle-friendly lighting ordinance by way of recognition of those property owners who are certified compliant. Hollywood’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance (§108, O-2011-07) requires that exterior lights be mounted as low in elevation as possible, shielded so that the light source is not visible from the beach, directed down and away from the beach, and have a low wattage amber or red bulb. To reduce or eliminate the visibility of interior light from the beach, tinted glass or film must be installed on north, east, and south facing doors and windows on new developments. Existing buildings can install window and door tint, move light fixtures away from windows, close the blinds and curtains, and turn off all unnecessary lights. To receive recognition, a property must fully comply with the City’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance (§108, O-2011-07). For information on how to apply for the Turtle Friendly Lighting Recognition Program, please visit: www.hollywoodfl.org/turtlelighting . Previous Next

Beach Construction To Begin Again: Dania, Hallandale Beach & Hollywood Residents Will Be Affected October 12, 2023 Share The idyllic stretches of sand and surf along Dania Beach, Hallandale Beach, and Hollywood Beach have long been cherished by residents and visitors alike. However, the relentless forces of nature have taken their toll on these picturesque shores over the years. In response, a significant beach renourishment project is set to reshape the coastal landscape again, ensuring the preservation and protection of these beloved beachfront communities. In February 2021, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) awarded the Segment III Beach Renourishment Construction Contract to Continental Heavy Civil Corporation. This project is no ordinary endeavor; it's a collaborative effort between local and federal entities, with a clear goal in mind - to restore and safeguard our coastline. Stretching from Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park in the south to Hallandale Beach in the north, this project aims to place approximately 887,000 cubic yards of upland sand along the shoreline. What's remarkable is that the federal government, through its Flood Control and Coastal Emergencies (FCCE) Program, is funding this endeavor with a 100% cost share. This commitment was triggered by the need for recovery following the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma. To execute this ambitious undertaking, meticulous planning is essential. Segment III Beach Renourishment will be implemented in distinct phases, each addressing the unique requirements of the shoreline: • Dr. Von Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park: This segment extends from the Port Everglades South Jetty to FDEP Reference Monument R-92. • Dania Beach/Hollywood Beach: From Dania Beach Pier to Hollywood Beach, Lee Street (R-108). • Hollywood Beach/Hallandale Beach: Stretching from Hollywood Beach, Iris Terrace (R-119) to the South County Line (R-128). Currently, construction is paused for Turtle Nesting Season, showcasing the project's commitment to Environmental Preservation. The pause began on June 1st, 2022 and construction will resume on November 1st, 2023. The transformation of these beaches will be a gradual one, designed to minimize disruptions to the community. Hallandale Beach will witness the project's initial phase, with Sand Placement commencing at South City Beach Park’s access point. From there, construction will progress north through Hollywood Beach, with an estimated completion date set for April 2024. Construction activities will primarily take place during daylight hours, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and will typically run from Monday to Friday. However, if necessary to stay on schedule, work may extend into Saturdays. The project has already made significant strides since its commencement. The Initial Construction Phase began within the confines of Dr. Von Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park on November 1st, 2021 and concluded on May 31st, 2022. This pause was vital to allow Nesting Turtles to thrive undisturbed. A Respectful Approach It's important to note that construction will only occur on upland beaches where property owners have granted construction easements. In areas where these easements have not been granted, Sand Placement will be limited to below the Erosion Control Line. This line defines the boundary between State Sovereign Submerged Lands and Upland Ownership. The project's success depends on the cooperation and support of the community. Various Beach Access Points have been identified for Construction Access and Staging as needed by the Construction vendor: • Approximate location of R-99, Dania Beach Public Parking Lot • Meade Street, Hollywood Beach • South City Beach Park, Hallandale Beach As the sands shift, so too does our commitment to ensuring that the beaches we hold dear remain a source of beauty and enjoyment for generations to come. Beach Construction is not just about rebuilding sand; it's about fortifying the bonds that tie our communities to these natural wonders. The journey to restore our coastlines has begun once more, and it is a journey that promises a brighter and more resilient future for Dania, Hallandale Beach, and Hollywood residents alike. Should you have any questions or require more information about the beach renourishment program, please do not hesitate to contact Jacob Rice at: jrice@broward.org . Your involvement and engagement are crucial as we work together to rejuvenate and safeguard our cherished coastal treasures. < Previous News Next News >