Mother Ocean Music Festival 2024: A Celebration Of Music, Family, And Environmental Awareness April 18, 2024 Share The City of Hollywood is gearing up for an unforgettable Earth Day celebration as it partners with Margaritaville Beach Resort and several other community partners to bring the Mother Ocean Music Festival to Hollywood Beach. Set to take place on Saturday, April 20th, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Hollywood Beach Bandshell on Johnson Street, this event promises a day filled with live music, family fun, and environmental awareness activities for everyone to enjoy. Embracing the spirit of sustainability and environmental stewardship, the Mother Ocean Music Festival aims to raise awareness about ocean conservation while providing a platform for the community to come together in support of this important cause. With free live entertainment, eco-friendly exhibits, engaging activities, and exciting demonstrations, attendees will have the opportunity to learn, engage, and contribute to the preservation of our oceans. At the heart of the festival is 4ocean's mission to protect our oceans. By partnering with conservation organizations and fostering collaboration among like-minded individuals and businesses, the festival aims to amplify efforts towards a healthier marine ecosystem. From interactive exhibits highlighting the importance of marine conservation to hands-on activities that empower attendees to make a positive impact, the festival offers something for everyone interested in safeguarding our planet's most precious resource. The festivities will be hosted by DJ Mike Kruz from top radio station Easy 93.1, along with special guest Martica from Hits 97.3. Live bands will grace the stage throughout the day, treating audiences to a diverse range of musical performances. From the soulful tunes of the Marcus Amaya Band to the reggae rhythms of Jah Steve and the Counteract Crew Band, there will be no shortage of entertainment for music enthusiasts of all ages. As the sun sets, the celebration will continue with a lively dance party on Johnson Street, inviting attendees to groove to the beat and revel in the joyous atmosphere. And for those looking to refuel, a variety of dining options await, including the resort's LandShark Bar & Grill, Margaritaville Restaurant, Lone Palm, Floridays, and 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill. Meanwhile, refreshments along the iconic Hollywood Broadwalk will ensure that no one goes thirsty while soaking in the sights and sounds of the festival. In addition to the main event on Saturday, the festivities kick off early with a free Hollywood West Concert featuring classic hits by the Fabulons. Taking place on Friday, April 19th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Boulevard Heights Community Center and Amphitheater, this prelude to the main event promises an evening of musical delight in a picturesque outdoor setting. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket for lawn seating as they enjoy the timeless tunes of the Fabulons under the stars. As the excitement builds for the Mother Ocean Music Festival, the City of Hollywood invites residents and visitors alike to join in the celebration of music, family, and environmental awareness. With a lineup of talented musicians, engaging activities, and a shared commitment to protecting our oceans, this year's festival promises to be a day of fun, education, and eco-awareness unlike any other. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this meaningful event and contribute to the preservation of our planet's natural treasures. For additional information and updates, please visit the official event page at: https://www.margaritavillehollywoodbeachresort.com/mother-ocean-music-festival-2024 Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to make a splash at the Mother Ocean Music Festival 2024! < Previous News Next News >

A Sizzling Must-See Lineup This June - Excitement Builds At The Broward Center For The Performing Arts South Florida Sun Times May 22, 2025 Summer Is Heating Up In South Florida And So Is The Entertainment At The Broward Center For The Performing Arts. June’s Lineup Sizzles With Must-See Performances, From Cult Classics And Chart-Topping Musicals To Laugh-Out-Loud Comedy And Soulful Tributes That Celebrate Culture, Nostalgia And Star Power. The audience is invited to come up to the lab and see what's on the slab when the Broward Center presents The Rocky Horror Picture Show with Barry Bostwick on Thursday, June 5th at 8:00 p.m. in the Au-Rene Theater. This iconic celebration of one of the most screened movies in the world features the original Brad Majors, Barry Bostwick, in a screening of the original unedited film with a live shadow cast and audience participation. VIP ticket holders will be able to meet Bostwick, whose iconic portrayal of Brad Majors has thrilled generations of fans for nearly 50 years. The show will feature a costume contest and memorabilia display with artifacts and costumes from the movie. Limited pre-show VIP tickets include a meet and greet with Bostwick, a photo opportunity and an autograph. This event contains adult language or content. This show is 18+. Slow Burn Theatre Company’s 2024/2025 Season in the Amaturo Theater, supported by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale, culminates with a sizzling summer production of the West End hit “The Bodyguard The Musical” from Saturday, June 7th – Sunday, June 22nd, including an open captioned performance on Sunday, June 15th at 2:00 p.m. Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard Frank Farmer is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love. This breathtakingly romantic thriller features a host of irresistible classics including “Queen of the Night,” “So Emotional,” “One Moment in Time,” “Saving All My Love,” “Run to You,” “I Have Nothing,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and one of the biggest-selling songs of all time, “I Will Always Love You.” Performance times vary. Major support of Slow Burn Theatre Company is provided by the Broward County Cultural Division, the Cultural Council, the Broward County Board of County Commissioners and Visit Lauderdale. Comedy veteran, Actress and Author Leanne Morgan has taken the world by storm and is “Just Getting Started!” The Broward Center and Outback Presents bring national headlining tour Leanne Morgan: Just Getting Started to the Au-Rene Theater for two shows on Saturday, June 7th, one at 4:00 p.m. and one at 7:00 p.m. Following the breakout ratings success of her critically acclaimed Netflix special, “I’m Every Woman,” Morgan has sold out more than 100 theater and arena shows across the U.S. Audiences of all walks of life can relate to Morgan through her personal stories about family and experiences. She is a shining example that life is meaningful and vibrant at any age and with age comes wisdom and a wicked sense of humor. Presented by the Broward Center and New Canon Chamber Collective, Remember the Times Live! comes to the Abdo New River Room as part of the Arts for Action Black Voices Series on Saturday, June 7th at 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, June 8th at 2:00 and 6:30 p.m. Remember the Times is an electrifying tribute to the golden era of Black American sitcoms from the 1970’s to the 1990’s. Now in its third year, this vibrant show blends live music, theater, dance, poetry and film to celebrate the cultural impact of beloved classics like “Good Times,” “The Jeffersons,” “A Different World,” “Living Single” and more. Featuring original musical arrangements, spoken word performances and dynamic storytelling, Remember the Times is a nostalgic journey honoring the legacy, humor and social influence of these iconic television shows. A post-show Q&A will take place immediately following the performance as part of the Broward Center's Arts for Action: Black Voices initiative focusing on how the arts and artists can be a force for change in addressing critical issues of social justice and racial inequality. The Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale series presents “Shucked” Tuesday, June 10th – Sunday, June 22nd in the Au-Rene Theater. “Shucked” is the Tony Award–winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls “flat out hilarious!” And nobody knows what is funny like economists. Featuring a book by Tony Award winner Robert Horn “Tootsie,” a score by the Grammy Award-winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow” and directed by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien “Hairspray,” this corn-fed, corn-bred American musical is sure to satisfy your appetite for great musical theater. Recommended for ages 10+, “Shucked” contains adult themes, moments of adult language and a harvest of corny innuendo. Performance times vary. The Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale 2024/2025 Season is made possible with the generous support of title sponsor Bank of America. Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale is presented by Florida Theatrical Association in partnership with the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Presented by the Broward Center and Gate52, Punchlines and Patriots with Sean Hannity and Jimmy Failla comes to the Au-Rene Theater on Sunday, June 29th at 7:00 p.m. Audiences are invited to join Fox News TV hosts Sean Hannity and Jimmy Failla for a celebration of laughter and liberty featuring standup comedy and a live audience Q & A on all things America. It's a town hall meeting with the two guys who know American politicians the best. A limited number of VIP Meet-and-Greet tickets are available. Also at the Broward Center in June: Dance Dimensions: Dancing Through Life from Saturday, May 31st – Sunday, June 1st. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222. 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. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Like us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter - And: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @BrowardCenter. Subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter - And join the conversation with: #BrowardCenter. The Broward Center 2024/2025 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. About The Broward Center for the Performing Arts One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 850 performances each year to more than 600,000 patrons, displaying a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level, the Nicklaus Children’s Health System Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion, waterfront dining at Marti’s New River Bistro and innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. With one of the largest arts-in-education programs in the United States, the Broward Center serves more than 100,000 students annually. The Broward Center also manages The Parker, an iconic Fort Lauderdale venue, the Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on the campus of Nova Southeastern University and the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in Miami-Dade County. The Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Inc. receives and maintains funds to sustain, develop and secure the future of the Broward Center. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org . Previous Next

Friends Of Jack & Jill Center Present 23rd Annual Stiles Light Up Downtown Thu Sep 26 2024 16:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

2022’s Danger Signs: From Totalitarian Paranoia To Authoritarian Madness By John & Nisha Whitehead January 12, 2023 Share The danger signs were everywhere in 2022. With every new law enacted by federal and state legislatures, every new ruling handed down by government courts, every new military weapon, invasive tactic and egregious protocol employed by government agents, we were reminded that in the eyes of the government and its corporate accomplices, “we the people” possess no rights except for that which the Deep State grants on an as-needed basis. Totalitarian paranoia spiked. In a Machiavellian attempt to expand its powers, the government unleashed all manner of dangers on an unsuspecting populace in order to justify its demands for additional powers to protect “we the people” from emerging threats, whether legitimate, manufactured or overblown. The state of our nation suffered. The nation remained politically polarized, controlled by forces beyond the purview of the average American and rapidly moving the nation away from its freedom foundation. Thought crimes became a target for punishment. Those who criticized the government—whether that criticism manifested itself in word, deed or thought—were flagged as dangerous alongside consumers and spreaders of “mis-dis-and mal-information.” Speech was muzzled. Those who want to monitor, muzzle, catalog and censor speech continued to push for social media monitoring, censorship of flagged content that could be construed as dangerous or hateful and limitations on free speech activities, particularly online. The government spoke in a language of violence. Police violence kills three people a day. Warrior cops—trained in the worst-case scenario and thus ready to shoot first and ask questions later—did not make us or themselves any safer. Despite this, President Biden pledged to expand law enforcement and so-called crime prevention through a $30 Billion “Fund the Police” Program. Cancel culture became more intolerant. Cancel culture shifted us into an Age of Intolerance, policed by techno-censors, social media bullies and government watchdogs. Everything has now become fair game for censorship if it can be construed as hateful, hurtful, bigoted or offensive provided that it runs counter to the established viewpoint. Homes were invaded. Government agents routinely violated the Fourth Amendment at will under the pretext of public health and safety. This doesn’t even begin to touch on the many ways the government and its corporate partners-in-crime used surveillance technology to invade homes: with wiretaps, thermal imaging, surveillance cameras and other monitoring devices. Political theater kept the public distracted. Having devolved into a carefully calibrated exercise in how to manipulate, polarize, propagandize and control a population, the political scene provided ample diversions with its televised January 6th, 2023 Committee Hearings, the Russia-Ukraine Crisis, the Ketanji Brown Jackson Confirmation Hearings and more. Bodily integrity was undermined. Although the Supreme Court overturned its earlier rulings recognizing abortion as a constitutional right under the Fourteenth Amendment, it did nothing to resolve the larger problem that plagues us today: namely, that all along the spectrum of life—from the unborn child to the aged—the government continues to play fast and loose with the lives of the citizenry. The government’s fiscal insanity reached new heights. The national debt amount that the federal government has borrowed over the years and must pay back hit $30 Trillion. That debt is expected to be twice the size of the U.S. Economy by 2051. Surveillance got creepier. On any given day, the average American going about his daily business was monitored, surveilled, spied on and tracked in more than 20 different ways, by both government and corporate eyes and ears. In such a surveillance ecosystem, we’re all suspects and data bits to be tracked, cataloged and targeted. Precrime became more fact than fiction. Under the pretext of helping overwhelmed government agencies work more efficiently, AI predictive and surveillance technologies were used to classify, segregate and flag the populace with little concern for privacy rights or due process. Gun confiscation laws put a target on the back of every American. Red flag gun laws which authorize government officials to seize guns from individuals viewed as a danger to themselves or others and gained traction as a legislative means by which to allow police to remove guns from people suspected of being threats. Red flag gun laws merely push us that much closer towards a suspect society where everyone is potentially guilty of some crime or another and must be preemptively rendered harmless. The Supreme Court turned America into a Constitution-free zone. Although the Court’s rulings on qualified immunity for police who engage in official misconduct were largely overshadowed by its politically polarizing rulings on abortion, gun ownership and religion, they were no less devastating. The bottom line: there will be no consequences for cops who brutalize the citizenry and no justice for the victims of police brutality. The FBI went rogue. The FBI’s laundry list of crimes against the American people ran the gamut from surveillance, disinformation, blackmail, entrapment and intimidation tactics to harassment and indoctrination, governmental overreach, abuse, misconduct, trespassing, enabling criminal activity and damaging private property, and that’s just based on what we know. The government waged war on political freedom. In more and more cases, the government declared war on what should be protected political speech whenever it challenges the government’s power, reveals the government’s corruption, exposes the government’s lies and encourages the citizenry to push back against the government’s many injustices. The military industrial complex waged more wars. America’s part in the showdown between Russia and the Ukraine conveniently followed on the heels of a long line of other crises which have occurred like clockwork in order to keep Americans distracted, deluded, amused and insulated from the government’s steady encroachments on our freedoms. Authoritarian madness escalated. You didn’t have to be a conspiracy theorist or even anti-government to recognize the slippery slope that starts with well-meaning intentions for the greater good and ends with tyrannical abuses no one should tolerate. When any government is empowered to adopt a comply-or-suffer-the-consequences mindset that is enforced through mandates, lockdowns, penalties, detention centers, martial law and an utter disregard for the rights of the individual, there should be reason for concern. The takeaway: the more things changed, the more they stayed the same. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, if there is any means left to us for thwarting the government in its relentless march towards outright dictatorship, it rests—as it always has— at the local level, with “we the people." Unless we work together to push back against the government’s overreach, excesses and abuse, 2023 will be yet another terrible, horrible, no good, very bad year for freedom. 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 >

Florida's Fentanyl Crisis: The Attorney General Wants To Classify It As Weapon of Mass Destruction August 4, 2022 Share Following two mass overdose incidents in a week in two Florida counties and the meteoric increase in deaths related to fentanyl nationwide, Attorney General Ashley Moody is calling on President Joe Biden to classify illicit fentanyl as a Weapon of Mass Destruction. Recently, in Tampa, police responded to a convenience store where seven individuals were found unresponsive after consuming drugs laced with fentanyl and a veterinary tranquilizer. Over the recent Fourth of July weekend in Gadsden County, at least 19 people overdosed on fentanyl. Back in March, five West Point cadets overdosed on cocaine mixed with fentanyl while on spring break in Wilton Manors — exposing a first responder who also overdosed attempting to resuscitate the cadets. According to reports, more than 75,000 Americans died of an opioid overdose during the 12-month period ending in April 2021, primarily from synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Attorney General Moody sent a letter to President Biden demanding he take immediate action to stop the fentanyl crisis killing hundreds of Americans every day. The letter directs the president to classify fentanyl as a WMD, enabling and requiring more parts of the federal government to coordinate a uniform response to illicit fentanyl, including the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, Drug Enforcement Administration and Department of Defense. Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “Border patrol has seized enough fentanyl to the kill the entire American population many times over. With that in mind, and the recent mass overdose events in Hillsborough and Gadsden counties, I am demanding President Biden classify illicit fentanyl as a Weapon of Mass Destruction. The federal government already works to disrupt the supply chains of other chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear weapons—it’s not hard to imagine that similar tactics could be used to reduce the flow of illicit fentanyl into the U.S. through cartels in Mexico—and save countless American lives.” According to DHS, a WMD is a nuclear, radiological, chemical, biological or other device that is intended to harm a large number of people. In 2018, the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Weapons of Mass Destruction Directorate assessed that “fentanyl is very likely a viable option for a chemical weapon attack.” In 2019, DHS considered the designation. A memo from James McDonnell, then-assistant secretary for the DHS Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office, states that the drug’s “high toxicity and increasing availability are attractive to threat actors seeking non-conventional materials for a chemical weapons attack.” According to the memo, DOD also proposed fentanyl receive a WMD designation. Fentanyl is a highly deadly synthetic opioid. Just two milligrams can be lethal. It is now the number one killer of adults ages 18-45. Fentanyl-related deaths among teens increased 168% in 2020, with 680 deaths nationwide — last year, 77% of all teen overdose deaths involved fentanyl. Many of these deaths can be attributed to use of counterfeit prescription pills laced with fentanyl, coming from Mexican drug cartels. It is estimated that at least one third of illicitly manufactured pills are contaminated with fentanyl, and users often have no idea that they are ingesting the lethal substance. To read the Attorney General's full letter, go to: http://myfloridalegal.com/webfiles.nsf/WF/GPEY-CGFJB2/$file/WMD+WR+2022.pdf Attorney General Moody recently released the Fast Facts on Fentanyl Toolkit, an informational resource for parents to help protect children from digital drug dealers online. The toolkit highlights how drug dealers utilize social media to sell illicit substances and warns that those substances may contain deadly amounts of synthetic opioids. Visit: https://doseofrealityfl.com/pdfs/general-information-fast-facts-fentanyl.pdf < Previous News Next News >

Buy Local: Save $$$ By Buying Fresh Fruits And Veggies Thu Jun 29 2023 16:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

New COVID-19 Test Sites: No Insurance Or Appointment Required Thu Aug 12 2021 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Shaping The Next Generation Of Artists - The Arts Broward Mural Mentorship Program Is Real-World Experience With A Lifelong Impact South Florida Sun Times Aug 13, 2025 The Business For The Arts Broward (BFA) Mural Mentorship Program Is Empowering Local Emerging Artists By Offering Paid Opportunities To Work Side-By-Side With Established Professional Muralists. Through These Partnerships, Aspiring Artists Develop Both Their Personal And Professional Skills While Contributing To Large Scale Public Artworks. The Resulting Murals Transform Ordinary, Empty Public Spaces Into Vibrant, Inspiring Environments — Sparking Conversation And Leaving A Lasting Impact On The Community. BFA and Broward Health recently celebrated the completion of the vibrant, iconic mural at Broward Health Medical Center that was conceptualized and implemented through the Mural Mentorship Program. Part of the “BFA Art Walls: Let’s Make Broward Beautiful” initiative, the mural at Broward Health Medical Center was the first project in BFA’s mural mentorship program. Lead artist Lori Pratico mentored five South Florida artists, Colin Breslin, Patricia Kluwe Derderian, Stephanie Leyden, Sara Marcano and Ashlee Sanford, who helped bring the mural to life. A key piece of the ongoing beautification project for the Broward Health downtown medical campus, this mural visually captures the spirit of Broward Health’s mission and vision, as well as the inspiration behind the brand, and showcases the beauty and creativity Fort Lauderdale offers. Sponsors included Cathy & James Donnelly Charitable Fund at the Community Foundation of Broward, Wayne and Lucretia Weiner, Crown Residential and Broward Health. See the Broward Health Mural come to life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEsWe-oB3xA&t=932s . “Our Mural Mentorship Program was created to enrich the community through art while supporting emerging artists in their growth and development,” said Jarett Levan, Board Chair of BFA. “Public murals bring joy to the local community, inspire conversation and enhance neighborhoods.” The newest canvas for the Mural Mentorship Program is the highly visible western facing wall of the Florida Purchasing Agency building at 262 Commercial Blvd. which serves as the western gateway to Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Generously funded by Wayne and Lucretia Wiener, Florida Purchasing Agency and Dara and Jarett Levan’s Fund at the Community Foundation of Broward, the mural is aptly named “Greetings from Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.” Sponsorship opportunities for the mural are available for $1,000. Sponsors will be invited to help paint the mural during the community paint day. All proceeds will benefit the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance on behalf of Team Crizzy. Eric and Caroline Maugee, owners of the Florida Purchasing Agency, have twins—Christian and Isabel—who are affected by this rare, progressive genetic muscular disorder. Throughout the Mural Mentorship projects, mentees work closely with Pratico during brainstorming sessions and in the design development and execution of the mural. This hands-on experience not only allows the mentees to contribute to a meaningful public art piece which reflects the community's unique character and spirit, but it also fosters personal growth and professional development in the field of muralism. The mentee artists chosen to work on the “Greetings from Lauderdale-by-the-Sea” mural are Angel Alvarez, Alyssa Book, Zoraye Cyrus, Anthony Hinds Jr. and Haydee Rancel. “By providing access, visibility and opportunity, we’re not just supporting individual creators,” said BFA Executive Director Robyn Vegas. “We’re thrilled to be fueling a vibrant, inclusive creative ecosystem that uplifts communities, inspires new generations and reshapes the future of the arts.” Sponsors are essential in bringing public art to life, helping to revitalize shared spaces and supporting local artists. To learn more about all sponsorship opportunities and how to be part of the next mural, please contact Robyn Vegas at: (954) 940-4933. Or: rvegas@bfabroward.org . About Business for the Arts Broward Business for the Arts Broward is a Not-For-Profit 501(c)(3) engaging businesses and business leaders to advocate and educate about the importance of the County’s art and cultural community as well as to recognize the connection between cultural vitality, creative success, and economic development. To learn more visit: www.Facebook.com/BFABroward - Or: www.bfabroward.org . Previous Next

The Coconut Grove Arts Festival: Aims to Make A Collector Out Of Children Thu Feb 16 2023 17:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Fox Nation: 3rd Annual Patriot Awards By Ira Liebowitz - Photo: Fox News - www.foxnews.com December 9, 2021 Share Who are our heroes? Super-man? Batman? On an evening in Hollywood, Florida, our nation's true heroes, the crème de la crème, were honored on November 17th during a gala at Seminole Hard Rock, featuring a smorgasbord of superstars--gleaned from "ordinary" people like a high school student, to gallant first responders --almost the entire gamut of Fox News staff stepped out to present their 3rd Annual Patriot Awards. A surprise by VIP Florida Governor Ron DeSantis opened the show. He mentioned that as governor, he did his job to ensure that Florida during the pandemic remained a "free state," lest it descend into a "Faucian Dystopia," referring to his perception of draconian mandate measures espoused by US Health Director, Dr. Anthony Fauci. The governor said that more important was getting a "job" not a "jab." As for funding the police, DeSantis had given each officer a $1,000 bonus in 2021. He says he plans to enact legislation to accord new hires and out-of-state businesses moving to Florida a $5,000 incentive. It was thought that Donald Trump might stop by. Near the start of the roughly two-hour event nine-year-old New Yorker D'Corey Johnson crooned the National Anthem with enough panache to enrapture the audience of about 4,000. This lad's singing perhaps reminded those of senior vintage of a just-starting-out Rat Pack Legend, Sammy Davis, Jr. as a child. “I'm no hero, but I've met a bunch of them," said Lt. Colonel Scott Mann who received the award for Heroism. He'd initiated and participated in a mission entitled "Task Force Pineapple." This retired Green Beret collaborated with veterans recently to rescue Americans and Afghan allies stranded in Afghanistan. With cell phones displaying a photo of a pineapple they communicated to get virtual hostages past the gates to safety. Lt. Colonel Mann truly exemplifies the timeless military adage, "Leave no man (or woman) behind." Army Sergeant First Class John Goudie had suffered the loss of a leg and a traumatic brain injury while fighting in Afghanistan. "Stand up and fight for what you believe in," he said when accepting the award for Modern Warrior. His prior awards include the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart. Remember the athlete who so fervently displayed the American Flag in triumph upon winning the highest award at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo? Tamyra Mensah-Stock is the first African American female to snag a gold medal during the 17-year history of women's wrestling at the Olympics. It had been her patriotism above her prowess that so swayed Fox to award her MVP-Most Valuable Patriot. It's been said that tough times bring out the best in ordinary people. Like during December 7th, 1941, the bombing of Pearl Harbor, proclaimed by President Franklen Roosevelt as a "day of infamy" that sparked recruits to enlist during WWII. The attack on our World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 1, 2001, 80 years hence, served as a springboard to ignite a new flame of patriotism. Two such selfless heroes emerging from the embers of the terror and tragedy of 9/11 were honored posthumously at the Patriot Awards: Todd Beamer and Stephen Siller. On 9/11 Todd Beamer led other brave passengers aboard ill-fated Flight 93 to rush terrorist's intent on perhaps crashing the plane into the Capitol Building in Washington D.C. Todd's urgent cell phone call to an operator in which his words, "Are you guys ready? Let's roll,” are forever emblazoned in a grateful nation's collective memory. All of the passengers and crew perished aboard the doomed airliner which crashed into a Pittsburgh Field in Pennsylvania, saving untold casualties on the ground. At the awards show Todd's parents, David and Peggy Beamer accepted the Courage Award on their son's behalf. Later at the show David Beamer wanted America to stay vigilant towards an insipid virus. "We have something inside happening inside our country right now that is a virus. I'm not talking about COVID-19, I'm talking about the socialism virus that can kill our country.” He went on, "We all have an opportunity to take a stand and fight. We need to send representatives to Washington D.C. who have 'The Antibodies' and stop electing representatives who are super spreaders. Let's remember we all have a responsibility to eradicate the socialism virus. It's got to go." In a dire catastrophe such as an earthquake or hurricane or one man-made as at the World Trade Center, often we find out what true heroes are made of. They selflessly step up to the plate risking life and limb to serve others. Such is the case of New York FireFighter Stephen Siller and more than 340 fire firefighters and 60 police officers, who, amazingly, hurried to the burning buildings-not away as most humans would do-to assist others. At shift's end about 9:00 a.m. on a sunny day headed home, Stephen turned his fire engine around, got out with 60 pounds of gear and ran through a tunnel toward burning buildings. He gave his life. In Stephen's honor his older brother Frank founded Tunnels to Towers, an organization that builds ergonomic mortgage-free homes to accommodate severely disabled soldiers or first responders or their families losing a spouse to relieve them of the burden of paying for a home. These custom-built one-story residences permit those in wheelchairs access to sinks or counters to do dishes or prepare meals. Swimming pools set at the proper temperature provide therapy for burn victims. For the past 20 years CEO Frank Siller has built hundreds of such homes. He presently averages constructing one about every 11 days. This night Frank was honored by receiving an award. People are encouraged to donate 11 dollars per month to www.tunnels2towers.org . A portion of the show's ticket price is going to go to T2T. On the 20th anniversary of 9/11 Frank completed his “Never Forget Walk to honor his brother and 9/11 victims. He had walked 537 miles en route from Washington D.C. to New York City. "Frank Siller's admiration for this brother, Stephen, rings eternal, he'll always be remembered as the FireFighter who ran through the tunnel and gave up his life." Each ticket holder received a goodie bag which contained a Patriot cap and host Pete Hegseth's new book, "Modern Warriors." In it he interviews about a dozen contemporary soldiers who have gone way beyond the call of duty to ensure our freedom. Some of these heroes have repatriated with their cherished comrades on the battlefield after having suffered amputation, went through rehabilitation and received a prosthetic. Like Ionic TV starship Captain Kirk, they not only have traversed that proverbial "extra mile," but have sped light years--that's six trillion miles!--to serve us. Washington DC's Metro Police Officer Taylor Brandt who emanates an aura of radiance received Fox's brand new Back The Blue Award from Crime Stories investigative reporter Nancy Grace. During her rookie year on the force in 2020, Taylor is credited with having saved nine lives-no, she did not rescue a kitten up a tree. "It's great to be able to say you have saved a life," Officer Brandt said, adding, "I guess I always wanted to make an impact in the community." Said Grace about the meritorious officer, "When asked about her achievement, she always gives credit to others." Eighth-grade student Charlotte Bevan received the Young Patriot Award having written a goosebump-rousing patriotic essay for a class assignment. The 13-year-old recited her composition to resounding applause before tearfully accepting the award from Fox Commentator Tucker Carlson. Mr. Carlson arrived on stage after 9:00 p.m., probably so scheduled after having just aired his Television show live at 8:00 p.m., at a different area of Hard Rock. He commented that Americans are skillful and are the "nicest" people in the world. Even assisting others stranded on a highway. Long Island 17-year-old Bobby Reuter parlayed the pandemic's downtime by creatively crafting the remarkable wooden patriot award presented at the gala. He reflected on them as being, "a symbol of unity." There was moving music. Country artists Heath Sanders and Tyler Farr seated alongside each other on guitars performed the sentimental "The Man I Left Behind," written by Sanders and CreativeVets. The audience stood silently as Fox's Sean Hannity prayed for gold star families who had lost loved ones in battle and the thirteen gallant soldiers attempting to free those left behind as Afghanistan was surrendered to Islamic extremists. Those in the military were invited to stand-and a sizable portion of this audience did so-and were thanked for their service. During a lighter moment Mr. Hannity mimicked Fox Contributor Mark Levin who, like Jackie Gleason of a bygone generation, he refers to as "The Great One." Hannity's pedantic burst brought out a few chuckles. It was a busy evening and the blue-carpeted corridor leading to the auditorium was a flurry of activity. A melting pot diversity of people for which America is famous, reigned. Headgear from cowboy hats to veteran's caps accented the aisles. Men donned neckties featuring the colors of the day-red, white and blue-as if having raided the same haberdashery. Ladies divaed-up in elegant gowns. Tuxedoed host Hegseth flashed a jacket lining to reveal red white and blue. Maureen Joy of Maureen Joy's Healing Journey, said "I feel humbled and grateful to be a part of thousands at the Hard Rock during such a momentous occasion. Being privileged to entertain at a veterans’ fundraiser in Chicago, I was honored to show our recognition and validation to all the brave men and women who fight for our freedom." Though swamped, Hard Rock's blue-sport-coated security were polite and accommodating. Leaving the gala, singer Cher look-a-like Maureen Joy asked for a cup of hot tea to which a congenial staffer cordially obliged. Gary Knight, of Hollywood, Florida said that his dad, Walter, underage at 17 and three of his uncles had signed up to our then Army Air Corps to serve before their enlistment papers arrived after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Walter served as a medic in Honolulu and his brother, John, built B-17 airplane fuselage parts in Denver. Of note is that Walter sailed home aboard President Franklin Roosevelt's personal cruiser, the Tuscaloosa. Today at age 97, Walter, as he has done for decades, put on his old Army Air Corps uniform to march each November 11th in the Veteran's Day parade. Though generally orderly, the cadre of military, CIA, first responders, police and firefighters waxed effusive, energized and ebullient, often standing in ovation, several times chanting a unifying "USA! USA! USA!" As such, it was said that on this night, this auditorium at Seminole Hard Rock likely was the safest place in the entire country. Now, let’s feature a few quintessential quotes from host Pet Hegseth’s new book, “Modern Warriors”: “We’re not sending miscreants overseas; we’re not sending victims: we’re sending leaders - the smartest, brightest, funniest and most capable people in the world.”; --Lieutenant Commander (Ret.) and Texas State Representative Daniel Crenshaw “A lot of times you are dealt a bad hand, but you rough it out and come out the other side better for having done so… Some things are different now. One thing isn’t: I still want to serve… I want to continue to put other people and their needs ahead of my own needs.” -- Marine Staff Sergeant (Ret.) Jeremiah Workman “It wasn’t about me. It was about the team. If I ever put one of my teammates in a predicament and they get injured or heaven forbid, their life was taken because of my injury, I couldn’t live with myself. This is when I realized that God had different plans for me and boy were they great.” --Sergeant First Class (Ret.) John Wayne Walding “Are you guys ready? Let’s roll” --Hero of Flight 93, Todd Beamer Note: Event host Pete Heagseth age 41, Marine First Lieutenant, father of seven, himself has copious incredible credentials. While still in college the tragic loss of life and assault on our country so moved this patriot to later join the marines. For his first year Pete trained and led troops in Guantanamo and in combat for the next six years in Iraq and Afghanistan. Afterward, he adroitly passed along journalistic skill to enlighten America as to what occurred overseas and oh yes, one small point—like the movie icon John Wayne who portrayed a coveted Green Beret on the Silver Screen, Pete actually became one in real life! Also notably, a majority of Fox Staff on stage this night have written books proposing a vigilance to curtail “progressive” elements set on doing away with our rights guaranteed for over 200 years in our Constitution. For lighter fare, check out an account by Fox analyst and former Bush press Secretary Dana Perino as to her prized pooch, Jasper. Incidentally, my father, Sidney Liebowitz, once wrote a letter to President Bush suggesting he not deploy troops to Iraq, but instead be stationed to protect our Southern border. Today a White House “thank you” letter graces my mom’s living room wall. Perhaps the president should have taken dad’s advice. Capping off the award show, Fox contributor and Country artist John Rich of the popular duo, “Big and Rich,” performed a buoyant rendition of Irving Berlin’s beloved “God Bless America'' to which a moved audience began to sing along and wave lighted cell phones. As folks were leaving, Fox morning host Brian Kilmeade stayed to chat and be photographed with a long line of fans. Earlier that day he had been treated by Hollywood’s finest - police officers--for a ride-along which included a tour of the picturesque Intracoastal waterway. No doubt this event at the Seminole Hard Rock shone a bright light on the local community. Perhaps another song apropos for the evening could have been sung - Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA: Here is a segment: And I’m proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free And I won’t forget the men who died Who gave that right to me And I’d gladly stand up Next to you and defend her still today ‘Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land God Bless the USA Superman. Wonder Woman. Captain America - they all have their place. But, folks like Lt. Colonel Scott Mann, Staff Sergeant John Goudie and other stalwarts for freedom differ from comic-book heroes in a singular sense: they are real, in the flesh. Their sacrifices to protect us are selfless and many. By mortal standards, they soar above us. Yet, modestly, they downplay their majesty. Our foremost heroes remain mum or say thusly, “Our true heroes in battle are the ones who never made it home.” And, for that, a packed audience at Seminole Hard Rock and some 350 million countrymen and women say a hearty, “Thank you!” As a Diet Therapy Specialist at Cha-nute AFB Hospital in Illinois during peacetime, Staff Sergeant Ira Liebowitz served his country - literally - breakfast, lunch and dinner and yes, the stereotype is true: Navy personnel do savor SOS, politely known as “creamed beef on toast.” < Previous News Next News >

Great Opportunity for Retirees! October 28, 2021 Share The Levi Yitzchok Senior Academy gives retired (or semi-retired) adults a unique opportunity to stimulate your mind Want to be more productive? Make life more meaningful? Get extra money? Know more about your Jewish heritage? All without leaving your home? The Levi Yitzchok Senior Academy gives retired (or semi-retired) adults a unique opportunity to stimulate your mind, share thoughts, learn about your heritage and feel accomplished. You can even receive a monthly stipend for writing a short weekly essay. No travel necessary! “This is an ideal program for those who are ambitious to advance their wisdom with Judaic courses that are both intellectual and inspirational. Everyone should have the opportunity to know their history and heritage,” says Rabbi Menachem Smith, their Director. The Senior Academy is now accepting applicants for its new semester. Choose between the TWO daily classes from: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. with Talmud and Jewish inspiration. Or from: 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., on a variety of Jewish topics. All classes are live on Zoom (accessible to everyone) – join from any device or regular telephone, even without internet access. The Levi Yitzchok Senior Academy is a project of United Jewish Generations, a Chabad Organization that provides many services for senior citizens. To apply, or for more information, call: (954) 458-6000. Or visit us on-line at: www.UnitedJewishGenerations.com/SeniorAcademy < Previous News Next News >

Calvin Klein Or Comedy: A Decision This Comedian Never Regretted Wed Jan 18 2023 17:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)