Did The Grinch Steal Christmas In Your Town? By Jane M. Orient, M.D. January 12, 2023 Share The killjoys who canceled a lot of Dr. Seuss’s delightful books didn’t get around to How The Grinch Stole Christmas - yet. But comparing what I have seen this season with the magical celebrations of my childhood, I think there’s a real Grinch out there. And he is not going to be converted, will not bring the goodies back and definitely will not carve the roast beast. Many homes might have had to forgo roast beast. British Commentator Alexander Mercouris reported that a Christmas goose was not obtainable, even in an affluent part of London. In America, if you had a turkey with all the trimmings, you paid much more for it than you did last year. This situation is not expected to be temporary. The world eats too much meat, say the oracles and needs to cut the amount from an average 70 kg per person per year to 24. In the Netherlands, the world’s second largest exporter of food, the government is expropriating 3,000 farms to meet “sustainable development” nitrogen emission goals. Livestock emits methane and nitrogen-containing waste, a.k.a. fertilizer. So, it must be sacrificed. Instead, we are supposed to adopt entomophagy—eating bugs. Raising insects is supposed to be much better for the Planet than raising livestock. Insects are said to require about 4 percent of the water and 10 percent of the amount of grain that a cow would require to produce the same amount of food biomass. Also, livestock require a lot of space, which will be needed for all those wind turbines and solar panels. Among the benefits touted by the New Yorker: “Insects are natural recyclers, capable of eating old cardboard, manure and by-products from food manufacturing and insect husbandry is humane: bugs like teeming and thrive in filthy, crowded conditions.” If you managed to have a Christmas feast this year despite inflation, an insect-based diet could help you lose weight. Did you enjoy a Yule log or chestnuts roasting on an open fire? In San Francisco, that could cost you a $500 fine. The Grinch pushed the Christmas tree up the chimney. In many places, most of the decorations are gone. Long ago, there were bells and tinsel on Tucson downtown streets. We drove around to see them. Hospital halls were decked with boughs of holly or the equivalent. Grocery stores played carols, as did Rush Limbaugh and some radio stations — and not just the ditties about Rudolph and Frosty. Getting rid of songs like The Little Drummer Boy did not stop the Grinch’s “noise, noise, noise, noise.” That we still have aplenty, as in lewd rap songs. The Grinch took the presents. We still have shopping mania, but who knows for how long. Extravagances that don’t meet ESG environmental, social and governance goals might be blocked by your digital bank account even if you are willing to work extra or economize elsewhere. The Grinch was impressed by the Whos’ demonstrating that Christmas doesn’t “come from a store,” but “means a little bit more.” There’s the real problem, though Dr. Seuss avoids naming it. Nativity scenes are under attack by secular, atheist extremists. How offensive! A baby, a loving mother, a responsible husband, livestock! Who can bear to look at it! And of course, we must not allow public expression of faith in God, the universal ultimate Lawgiver, who will eventually topple all the oppressors from their thrones. The King Herods of the world have to squelch this very idea. Christmas is about joy, hope, love, merriment, life and light. Resentment or envy of these blessings explains why the real Grinches stand there on Christmas Eve hating the Whos. Their Grinch feet are not ice-cold in the snow. But they don’t care if you and your baby and your grandmother are freezing in the dark and eating bugs to meet the demands they impose with pretensions of godlike authority. For ordinary people, Grinches want it to be “always winter and never Christmas.” But the Light has come and the Grinches are ultimately powerless before it. About: Jane M. Orient, M.D. obtained her Undergraduate Degrees in Chemistry and Mathematics from the University of Arizona in Tucson, her M.D. from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, in 1974. She has been in solo private practice since 1981 and has served as Executive Director of The Association Of American Physicians And Surgeons, (AAPS) since 1989. She is the author of YOUR Doctor Is Not In: Healthy Skepticism about National Healthcare and the second through fifth editions of Sapira's Art And Science Of Bedside Diagnosis Published by Wolters Kluwer. She is the Managing Editor of The Journal Of American Physicians And Surgeons. Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of Jane M. Orient, M.D and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of The South Florida Sun Times Newspaper. < Previous News Next News >

A Message From The City Manager: The Sunny Isles Beach Proposed Budget And Capital Improvement Program By Stan Morris, Sunny Isles Beach City Manager - www.sibfl.net October 20, 2022 Share In accordance with Article IV Section 4.5 of the Charter of the City of Sunny Isles Beach, I am pleased to present to you the Proposed Comprehensive Budget and 5-Year Capital Improvement Program for FY 2022-2023. When we started this process, I had four main goals to accomplish. The first goal was to involve the City Commission in the development of the priorities for this next Fiscal Year. Through Individual Meetings with the Commission and our Administrative Team, we were able to freely discuss what the goals were for the future of our City. A special thank you to the Commission for their guidance and open dialogue to discuss what the vision and goals are for this upcoming year. Their message was clear and the recurring theme included Public Safety and reducing our Millage Rate. The second goal was to thoroughly involve the Staff in this process. As it is, the Department Heads and their team that must execute the work that this Budget represents, they need to be involved at every step. After they heard your vision, they were tasked with doing the research to provide a Professional Assessment of what was possible, how to do it and what it would cost. Simultaneously, our Assistant City Manager, Audra Curts-Whann performed a full 5-Year Review, line by line, of the actual expenditure for each Department. Working with our Finance Director Tiffany Neely, every Department met individually with them and my Office for a thorough review of what they had spent historically to identify where surplus may be cut. Every Department was directed to look at their Budget from a fresh perspective, prioritizing needs over wants. Every Department Head was provided the tools they needed to get to work and submit a comprehensive, responsible Budget. This was followed by one-on-one Meetings with each Department and my Office to review their submissions. We scrutinized each division and cut where it was possible and added where necessary to meet the vision you provided. I thank our Finance Team and our Department Heads who took on this challenge and made the hard decisions to provide this Balanced Budget that asked to do more with less. The third goal was to develop a Budget that remained fiscally responsible, could lower the Millage Rate and ensure that our residents continue to receive the high-quality services that they expect while fulfilling the initiatives set by the Commission. This Budget achieves these goals. The filing of the 2022-2023 Fiscal Year Budget reflects an assessed value that has increased by $1.1 Billion from last year and we have a Budget that reduces the Millage Rate to 2.0 Mills per $1,000 of Assessed Value. This has resulted in an unprecedented tenth year that our City has lowered the Tax Rate. In 2021, our Budget was 9.5% higher than the prior year, then, in 2022 our Budget was 7.6% higher as compared to this Proposed Operating Budget which is only 4.0% more than Last Year’s Operating Budget. Between the supply chain issues, the extraordinary increase in CPI of over 10.6% from June 2021 to June 2022, and the “Great Resignation” of 2021 that continues to affect every corner of our Country in both the Public and Private Sectors, we developed a Budget that keeps us competitive in the Employment Market. This is critical to recruit and retain qualified personnel to maintain the quality of life for our residents. Fiscal Responsibility is at the forefront of our entire Management Team. The phrase “do more with less” has been felt by every Department these past few years where they had to do more work with less staff (for less pay than their counterparts in other cities). We are fortunate to have the Dedicated Team that we have that has kept the wheels turning throughout the Pandemic and the aftermath that has left us all working in unprecedented times and conditions. As we continue to navigate this Post-Pandemic World, we developed a Budget that is conservative on our Revenues and hopeful in our Expenses. We hope to be able to fill every vacant position. We hope to purchase every Budgeted Item. We hope to fulfill every Commission Goal. Finally, the fourth and to me, most important Goal remains to be fully transparent. When I took this position, I promised to be fully transparent in my decisions and actions. I hide nothing and welcome your questions and comments. I worked closely with the Commission, The Finance Department and City Staff to present an honest and Manageable Budget. This Budget advances our initiatives in sustainability, innovation, safety and quality. We also met with members of our Public with expertise in Finance who provided additional insight. We listened to the residents through Public Outreach, Surveys and worked closely with our Commission and Dedicated Staff to deliver this fully transparent, thorough and Comprehensive Budget that fulfills several initiatives as proposed by our community in a cost-effective and fiscally responsible manner. General Fund As stated, The Budget provides for a reduction in the Property Tax Rate, reflecting a Millage Rate of 2.0 Mills per $1,000 of Assessed Value. This is achievable even with only a 11.32% increase in our Taxable Value of all property within the City. It is important to note that this includes $255 Million of Property Value Decrease due to reassessments, $1.2 Billion increase of Property Values and over $197 Million of New Construction added to the Tax Rolls in our City this year. Our City’s Assessed Value will slowly increase over the next few Fiscal Years as New Construction continues at a slower pace than previous years. There are currently seven approved development projects, four of which are under construction. There was also one project completed, which added 320 residential units. All these projects contribute to our Increased Revenue from such sources as Building Department Fees, Bonus Payments, Funds from Transferable Development Rights (TDR), Impact Fees and ultimately Property Tax Revenue. The Revenue for the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 General Fund is $47,899,558, which represents an increase of $7,289,215, or 17.9%, from the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Adopted Budget. The changes in various Revenue Categories are outlined below: Property Tax Revenues reflect an increase of $976,905 due to the increase in Property Values offset by the 1/10 reduction in the Millage Rate. The City’s Assessed Value as reported by the Property Appraiser is $13,781,795,040, which is a $1,145,952,354 increase over 2021-2022. The recent history of the City’s Taxable Values are provided below. Franchise Fees are estimated to increase by $575,000. The City entered into an Agreement with Florida Power & Light for Franchise Fees to be paid monthly effective as of May 2020. Due to the New Construction being added to the Tax Roll, higher Proposed Revenues are anticipated. Utility Tax Revenues are estimated to increase by $50,000 due to New Construction being added to the Tax Roll. Communications Services Tax Revenues are expected to decrease slightly by $20,000. Revenues from Licenses/Permits are expected to decrease by $2,000 primarily related to the reduction in the Vacant Property Registry. Intergovernmental Revenues for State Revenue Sharing are projected to increase by $79,812 and Local Government Half-Cent Sales Taxes are expected to increase by $165,116 over the prior year. Charges for Services are expected to increase by $202,500 over the prior year. This is primarily due to the Parking Fee Collections of $31,000, Recreational Programs of $166,500 and Police Overtime Reimbursements from the Federal Government of $5,000. Fines and Forfeitures are estimated to increase by $335,000 due to Increased Parking Fines and Code Compliance Citations. Miscellaneous Revenues are expected to increase by $366,575 primarily due to Rental Income from The Navarro Property. Transfers are estimated to increase by $4,560,307 due to the American Rescue Plan Act Funds being transferred to the General Fund and utilized for the provision of Governmental Services. The Proposed General Fund Budget expenditures (not including Transfers out to other Funds) increased to $44,461,238, which represents an increase of $1,875,658, or 4.4%, from Fiscal Year 2021-2022. Expenditures have increased primarily due to: (1) Compensation Adjustments, Retirement System Contributions and Health Insurance ($1,821,063), (2) Additional Departmental needs ($456,874) offset by (3) a reduction in Debt Payments due to Lower Principal Payments (-$8,868) and a reduction in Capital Outlay Needs (-$333,411) and a reduction in other disbursements for Election Expenses (-$60,000). Street Maintenance And Construction Fund Major revenue sources in the Street Maintenance and Construction Fund include Intergovernmental Revenues such as State Revenue Sharing, Transportation Surtax and Local Option Fuel Tax. This fund was developed for the benefit of segregating the uses of this Revenue Source. The Fund Accounts for the costs related to Transportation, Street Construction and Maintenance Programs. The total budget is $3,294,572. Building Fund Major Revenue Sources in the Building Fund include: Fees Generated from Building Permits and Inspections. This Fund was developed for the benefit of segregating the uses of this Revenue Source. This Fund Accounts for the costs related to the Administration and Enforcement of the Building Code. This coming year, we are gearing up for the New Legislation recently passed, Senate Bill 4-D, requiring Proactive Milestone Inspections of Condominiums. Revenues, not including Appropriated Fund Balance, are $3,598,762, a decrease of $1,454,238 from the prior year and expenditures are $5,252,959, an increase of $1,122,200 from the Prior Year. The excess of expenditures over Revenues this Fiscal Year are funded by the Carryover (Fund Balance) of previous Years Revenues. Public Art Trust Fund This Fund was created in 2014-2015 for the benefit of segregating the use of Public Art Trust Fund Revenues to purchase and maintain Art within the City. The Total Budget is $1,417,887, a decrease of $205,955 from the prior year. The Public Arts Advisory Committee (PAAC) Public Art Program was approved and Commission Adopted in 2020. The Program contains a Five-Year Strategic Work Plan with one of the first Projects involving a Meditation Garden located in the western area of Town Center Park. This Project is fully funded for and construction is expected to begin this year! Sunny Spaces was developed in Celebration of The City’s 25th Anniversary and under the initiative of the Public Art Program. The Sunny Spaces Art Contest launched in May 2022 and received over 78 eligible submissions from 59 different Artists. The community was asked to paint, or hand draw an original piece incorporating the theme of a sun. Up to 25 submissions will be recreated as a public art installation within the City. Sunny Spaces aims to bring the community together through the Visual Arts by co-creating artistic spaces curated by our residents. The goal is to shed light on our talented Artists while increasing accessibility to the Arts in our community. Sunny Spaces aspires to be the premier showcase of Local Art for our community. Sunny Spaces and Gateway Artway will be unveiled in Winter 2023 and will be publicly accessible for residents and visitors to enjoy, including Art Activations at City Events. American Rescue Plan Act Of 2021 Fund This fund was created to Segregate Fiscal Recovery Funds as a result of the United States Congress passing the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”). It was signed into the Law creating the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund for the purpose of providing funds to Local Governments in order to facilitate the Ongoing Recovery from the COVID-19 Pandemic (“Fiscal Recovery Funds”). ARPA allocated over $7 Billion for making payments to metropolitan cities. The City entered into an Agreement in September 2021 with The State Of Florida, Division Of Emergency Management as a Non-Entitlement Unit to receive its allocation of $10,920,613 from the State. The first half of the allocation was received in October 2021 and the second half was received in August 2022. The total allocation will be utilized for the provision of Government Services and Necessary Investments in Water and Sewer Infrastructure. Enterprise Funds The City has a Stormwater Operating Fund and a Stormwater Capital Projects Fund. The Stormwater Operating Fund is primarily self-supporting and has Budgeted Revenues of $1,002,000, which is primarily the same as the prior year. This Fund incurs costs to ensure Compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit. Stormwater Capital Projects are funded by the Local Option Fuel Tax and Transfers in from the Stormwater Operating Fund, as available. Accumulated Fund Balance (Carryover) will be utilized for Drainage. The City is in the Design Phase of the Central Island Drainage Project to improve its Stormwater Pumping Capacity. Capital Improvement Program The Capital Improvement Program concentrates on the Development of Parks, Infrastructure and Rehabilitation of our Facilities including: Major Road Resurfacing, Sidewalk Improvements and Pedestrian Safety. A Capital Improvement Project generally exceeds $25,000 and has a useful life of five years or more. The City has been successful in leveraging City Dollars to obtain Grant Awards and Legislative Appropriations for some Capital Projects and will continue to seek these where possible. The City has one Capital Projects Fund, The Capital Improvement Program Fund, which is funded by a Transfer from the General Fund, Grants, Impact Fees, Other Development Fees and Contributions/Donations. The Capital Projects, which total $26,726,614 (including $19,316,614 Carryover from the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year), are recommended and funded by The Capital Improvement Program Fund. All of The Capital Improvement Projects requested and proposed for this year are fully detailed in our Proposed Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) located in the CIP section of this document. Please note that many Capital Projects are Multi-Year Endeavors. Conclusion In conclusion, our 2022-2023 Fiscal Year Budget is one that is presented with transparency and represents our Meetings with Elected Officials both individually and as a group, as well as, Meeting with members of the Public to ensure that their needs and requests were heard. Our goal is to maintain Fiscal Responsibility while providing the utmost level of High-Quality Services our residents and visitors have come to expect. This work could not have been accomplished without the input and vision of The Mayor, Vice Mayor and Commissioners, the direction of our Finance Director, Tiffany Neely and the Finance Department Team and our Department Directors. On behalf of Deputy City Manager Susan Simpson and Assistant City Manager Audra Curts-Whann, we express our sincere thanks and gratitude. Respectfully submitted, Stan Morris - City Manager < Previous News Next News >

'Hunger Heroes Take Action': Feeding South Florida Kicks Off Hunger Action Month This September September 12, 2024 Share Feeding South Florida – the Leading Hunger-Relief Organization serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties – is commemorating Hunger Action Month this September with a myriad of activities to encourage South Floridians to “Go Orange” to stand against hunger. Hunger Action Month, a nationwide initiative created by Feeding America®, takes place throughout September and is designed to raise awareness about the issue of hunger in America and inspire others to take action toward ending it. This year Feeding South Florida’s theme is “Hunger Heroes Take Action.” Currently, in South Florida, there are more than 1.2 million food insecure individuals. One in nine individuals in South Florida remain uncertain about where they will get their next meal due to inflation, the strained Supply Chain, Rising Fuel Prices and Increased Housing Costs among other factors. Proceeds raised during the month-long initiative will allow Feeding South Florida to fulfill its mission to end hunger in South Florida by providing immediate access to Nutritious Food, leading Hunger and Poverty Advocacy Efforts and transforming lives through Innovative Programming and Education. An online auction during the month will allow bidders access to fun, unique items while supporting Feeding South Florida’s Hunger Relief Efforts. Go Orange t-shirts and orange mustaches will be available for purchase to raise awareness about hunger. Monetary Donations will go further during September with a one-to-one match with Delta Airlines, up to $25,000. Every donation is critical as a $1 Donation allows Feeding South Florida to provide approximately four meals to a family in need. Feeding South Florida will also host two Hunger Relief Town Hall Meetings during Hunger Action Month to educate the public and donors about Food Insecurity and Hunger Relief Efforts. The Hunger Relief Town Hall is a pivotal initiative hosted in collaboration with Health Choice Network, Feeding South Florida, Broward Community and Family Health Centers, University of Miami Health System and Jessie Trice Community Health System, through a grant from the National Institute of Health. This gathering brings together a diverse array of stakeholders – from community leaders and healthcare professionals to policymakers and grassroots advocates – to focus on tackling the multifaceted challenges of Food Insecurity head-on. The meetings will take place on September 6th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Miami Dade College, Wolfson Campus and on September 11th from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Nova Southeastern University’s Rick Case Arena. During Hunger Action Month, South Floridians can “Go Orange” by participating in various activities throughout the month including: • Start a Fund Drive: Raise money with coworkers, friends and family online. • Start a Food Drive: Feeding South Florida relies on the generous support of the community to host food drives to ensure it receives shelf-stable, high-demand products. • Participate in the 2024 Outrun Hunger 5K – Palm Beach County: (7:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 21st) Participants can raise funds for Feeding South Florida by running or walking during this fun-filled event taking place at the beautiful Okeeheelee Park (7715 Forest Hill Boulevard, West Palm Beach, Florida 33413). Participants can join the event as an individual or a team. • Pack to Give Back – Corporate Teams (September 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th): Companies are encouraged to volunteer to sort food and pack meal boxes for families at one of Feeding South Florida’s warehouses. Shifts include 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. • Volunteer: During Hunger Action Month, coworkers, family and friends are invited to volunteer to sort food at one of Feeding South Florida’s warehouses or help prepare and cook meals for children and seniors at Feeding South Florida’s 5,000-square-foot state-of-the-art multi-purpose Community Kitchen in Boynton Beach. Dates and times vary. For more details, visit: https://feedingsouthflorida.org/volunteer/. • Hunger Action Day (September 13th): Feeding South Florida celebrates Hunger Action Day, also known as “GO ORANGE DAY.” The community is invited to purchase a “Hunger Heroes” T-shirt for $25 and wear it to support ending hunger in South Florida by visiting: www.feedingsouthflorida.org/ham2024. Go Orange! Throughout the month, individuals can host an orange bake sale, government and municipalities can issue a proclamation for Hunger Action Month, hotels can welcome guests with an in-room display that showcases Hunger Action Month, schools can develop students’ skills by creating a project to promote hunger awareness and much more. During Hunger Action Month in the past, several landmark buildings including The Breakers, Miami Tower, and the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood Guitar Hotel all participated in “GO ORANGE DAY” by turning their lights orange. Register an individual or company's #GoOrange initiative to be added to Feeding South Florida’s community activity calendar. Contact: events@feedingsouthflorida.org . Unlock the Hunger Action Month Social Media Tool Kit at: www.feedingsouthflorida.org/ham2024 “Hunger Action Month is an opportunity for the community to come together to raise awareness about Food Insecurity and be a part of the solution,” stated Paco Vélez, President and CEO of Feeding South Florida. “We’re grateful for our South Florida community which participates in Hunger Action Month year after year to support our mission and help families in need. The month-long initiative will help us continue to raise awareness and crucial funds to put food on the table for South Florida families who need it the most.” For more information about Hunger Action Month, please visit: www.feedingsouthflorida.org/ham2024 or contact Allyson Vaulx at: Avaulx@feedingsouthflorida.org . Or: (954) 518-1818. Extension#: 1852. Feeding South Florida Feeding South Florida is a member of the Feeding America Network and is the Leading Hunger-Relief Organization serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe Counties. Providing support for 25 percent of the state’s food insecure population, its mission is to end hunger in South Florida by providing immediate access to nutritious food, leading hunger, and poverty advocacy efforts, and transforming lives through innovative programming and education. Feeding South Florida served more than *1.17 million individuals through direct-service programs and a local network of more than 350 nonprofit and community partners. Visit: www.feedingsouthflorida.org - Or call: (954) 518-1818. < Previous News Next News >

Musical Blockbusters: Coming To Reignite The Theatrical Scene September 16, 2021 Share Slow Burn Theatre Company is ready to reignite the theatrical scene after a forced pandemic shutdown with a scorching 2021/2022 Season that features five red hot musical blockbusters as kindling The Florida premieres of recent Broadway hits Once on This Island and Head Over Heels, Broadway fan favorites Kinky Boots and Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical, and Songs for a New World from one of Broadway’s hitmakers. The season is presented by American National Bank, South Florida’s premier community bank. “We’re coming back from a year when stages were dark with renewed passion to answer the question, ‘Why do we tell the story?’,” said Slow Burn co-founder Patrick Fitzwater. “The answer is that with this season we are centered on bringing hope, acceptance, love, perseverance and pride and delivering it with the work of some of today’s greatest talents including Jason Robert Brown, Harvey Fierstein, Cyndi Lauper, Tim Minchin, the Go-Go’s and Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty.” The season begins with Songs for a New World, on stage from Tuesday, October 12th through Sunday, October 24th, 2021. Before creating the acclaimed Broadway musicals Parade and Bridges of Madison County, Tony Award®-winner Jason Robert Brown produced this moving collection of powerful songs that examine life, love and the choices we make in that one moment whether to take a stand or turn around and go back, do what’s safe or follow an adventure. Each song tells a story with a full orchestra behind it. In a review of a 2005 production, the Sun Sentinel reported, “A decade after the debut of Songs for a New World, the work remains a testament to Brown's innate talent and promise. The music and lyrics are stylish and alternately clever, dramatic and funny.” Just in time for the holidays, Slow Burn gifts the stage with the winner of a Grammy® Award, six Tony Awards, three Outer Critics Circle Awards and awards from the Drama Desk and Drama League, Kinky Boots from Friday, December 17th, 2021 through Sunday, January 2nd, 2022. With songs by Grammy and Tony winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, and a hilarious, uplifting book by four-time Tony winner Harvey Fierstein, this joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. Inspired by true events, Broadway's huge-hearted, high-heeled hit takes you from a gentlemen's shoe factory in Northampton, England to the glamorous catwalks of Milan. Kinky Boots is the perfect way to celebrate the season with performances on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Once on This Island delivers a timeless testament to theater's limitless possibilities from Friday, February 4th, 2022 through Sunday, February 20th, 2022. This 2018 Tony Award-Winner for Best Revival of a Musical is a Caribbean-infused tribute to the resilience of the human heart and to life's extraordinary power to tear down walls and transform lives. The mighty island gods of the French Antilles guide a fearless peasant girl on a quest to find her place in the world and reunite with a boy who has captured her heart. Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, the Tony Award-winning songwriting team behind Anastasia and Ragtime, have created this musical fable that follows the couple’s pursuit of love as it changes the lives of their island and their families forever. The Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical, inspired by the genius who created the tales of James and the Giant Peach and Willie Wonka, now brings the story of a special little girl with an extraordinary imagination to the stage from Friday, March 25th, 2022 through Sunday, April 10th, 2022. Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, the musical revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. With the book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, this captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company has won 47 international awards and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages around the world. The season culminates with Head Over Heels from Friday, June 10th, 2022 through Sunday, June 26th, 2022. This bold new musical comedy from the visionaries that rocked Broadway with Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Avenue Q and Spring Awakening, is a laugh-out-loud love story featuring the music of the iconic 1980s all-female rock band The Go-Go's with hit their songs, "We Got the Beat," "Our Lips Are Sealed," "Vacation," Belinda Carlisle's "Heaven is a Place on Earth" and "Mad About You." In this modern musical fairy tale where once-upon-a-time is right now, a royal family sets out on a journey to save their beloved kingdom from extinction in what New York Magazine called "a clever, delightful, bubbly, exuberant party!" Each production includes one Sunday 1 p.m. matinee offering open captioning for the hearing impaired. Generously underwritten by the Amaturo Family Foundation, open captioned performances feature a digital screen that scrolls spoken dialogue as the action occurs on stage. American National Bank first recognized Slow Burn’s theatrical work in 2018 and is now taking a lead in presenting its 2021/2022 Season. “We believe in investing in the community,” said Ginger Martin, president and CEO of American National Bank. “Slow Burn Theatre Company’s contribution to the arts continues to engage audiences in new ways, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to play our part in helping them deliver their heart and art through the professional productions they produce in our hometown.” The Broward Center is following health & safety guidelines developed in collaboration with Cleveland Clinic and that have been informed by guidance of public health officials including the Centers for Disease Control. These health & safety guidelines are available at: www.BrowardCenter.org and will continue to evolve as the environment changes. Five-show season subscriptions start at $196, offering a savings of 20% over single ticket prices, and patrons can save 10% on individual tickets when they design their own three-or-four show subscriptions. Single tickets ranging from $49-$65 are also on sale now. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and Parker Playhouse. Buy tickets online at www.BrowardCenter.org or 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 in Fort Lauderdale. For more information visit: BrowardCenter.org, like us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/browardcenter/ and https://www.facebook.com/browardcentereducation/ follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @BrowardCenter, subscribe to our channel at Youtube.com/user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with: #BrowardCenter. Slow Burn Theatre Company’s 2021/2022 season is supported in part by the Broward County Cultural Division. The Broward Center 2021/2022 season is generously underwritten by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Bank of America, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, MasterCard and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center are proud sponsors of the Broward Center. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. < Previous News Next News >

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A Theatrical Extravaganza: Magic & Mayhem Live Will Leave You Spellbound and Gasping for Breath November 10, 2023 Share Is it conceivable that laughter could be fatal? If it were, then Darren "Dizzy" Partridge might just be the most perilous man alive. Growing up in Coventry, England, Dizzy never imagined he would one day perform in cirque shows worldwide, making a living with magic. From the illustrious Apollo Theatre in London's West End to the iconic Sydney Opera House, Dizzy has been enthralling audiences globally for over a decade. A masterful comedy magician and versatile cirque performer, his acts regularly feature as headliners on prestigious luxury liners like Celebrity and Norwegian cruise lines. He gained recognition as The Trickster in The Illusionists, the largest touring magic show globally. Dizzy's exuberant blend of magic, physical comedy, and mischievous British charm mesmerizes his audiences, leaving them both spellbound and gasping for breath. With three unique shows to choose from, he guarantees an unforgettable and unbelievable experience. Reflecting on his journey, Dizzy shared, "I'm often asked if I always aspired to be a magician. Truthfully, the short answer is no. However, I always pursued my passions. I initially dabbled in martial arts, reveling in the physicality and athleticism it demanded. My favorite moves involved spinning, kicking, and jumping, which gradually transformed into a passion for breakdancing. I taught myself various power moves and, despite lacking rhythm, I relished performing acrobatic tricks. Surprisingly, those tricks led me to portray Sir Francis Drake in a stunt show in Majorca, Spain." During this phase, Dizzy spent seasons executing backflips, high falls, and engaging in sword fights with fellow swashbucklers. Following an altercation with Blackbeard (a story in itself), his tenure as a professional pirate concluded. However, fate led him to a cirque audition in London, where he astounded casting directors with his acquired skills. While others deliberated on their music preferences, he impulsively ran up a wall, executed a backflip, and instantly captured everyone's attention. As it turned out, in certain professions, bouncing off walls proved advantageous. He was hired and relocated to Myrtle Beach to perform for Le Grand Cirque, where he encountered various performers, including influential magicians who eventually became his mentors, cementing his path in the industry. One of those influential figures was Janna Roukhmanova, a globally acclaimed cirque performer from Moscow, Russia. She also happens to be his wife. Together, they are dedicated to delivering top-tier entertainment to as many people as possible. The Aventura Show "Magic & Mayhem Live" is a spectacle of magic and laughter, ensuring audiences are both mesmerized and roaring with delight. This unparalleled show combines mind-bending illusions with death-defying acrobatics, offering a rollercoaster of emotions that keep spectators on the edge of their seats. Darren "Dizzy" Partridge, with his mischievous British charm, serves as the heart and soul of the production. His seamless fusion of magic and physical comedy has earned him a reputation as one of the most entertaining magicians in the business. Witnessing Dizzy in action is like experiencing a whirlwind of laughter and astonishment. He possesses the uncanny ability to make the impossible seem possible and the possible hilariously absurd. "Magic & Mayhem Live" transcends a mere magic show; it's a theatrical journey through the realms of fantasy and wonder. Among its highlights is the mischievous duo of Dizzy and Janna Roukhmanova, whose on-stage chemistry is electric. Janna's background in cirque performance adds an extra dimension to the magic acts, gracefully captivating the audience with her aerial acrobatics. As the lights dim and the curtain rises, the audience is transported into a world of magic, mayhem, and mystery. The grand stage comes alive with dazzling lights, intricate sets, and pulse-pounding music, setting the tone for the forthcoming jaw-dropping performances. However, what sets this show apart isn't just the individual acts, but the seamless integration of each act into a cohesive and immersive experience. Smooth transitions between performances maintain the excitement, ensuring there's never a dull moment. One of the most thrilling segments invites audience participation in mind-reading acts and daring escapology tricks. Reactions range from nervous laughter to stunned silence as spectators witness the seemingly impossible happening before their eyes. "Magic & Mayhem Live" caters not only to magic enthusiasts but to anyone who appreciates the art of entertainment. It's a show suitable for audiences of all ages, making it an ideal outing for families, friends, or a captivating date night. For an evening of wonder, laughter, and indelible memories, seize the chance to witness "Magic & Mayhem Live." It's not just a magic show; it's a celebration of human spirit, the joy of imagination, and the thrill of being alive. "Magic & Mayhem - Live Presented By CIRQUE JOURNEY ENT." is scheduled at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center on Saturday, January 6th, 2024, with shows at 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. Seats start at $29.00. Secure your tickets for an enchanting night that guarantees to leave you spellbound and breathless! Ticket Information Ticketmaster is the official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Tickets can be purchased online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: 1 (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office. For Group Sales, call: (954) 660-6307. Parking Free parking is available in lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, located in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle, located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is situated at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

Gulfstream Park Heats Up In 2023 With High-Season Entertainment: From Horse Racing And Casino Games To Shopping And Dining, Offering A Wide Range Of Entertainment Options Wed Jan 18 2023 17:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

3 Holiday Hosting Hacks (Family Features) December 16, 2021 Share Despite a busy holiday schedule, you can take the stress out of entertaining and cooking by planning ahead and simplifying your menu. Consider these tips from the entertaining experts at Sunkist and food blogger, podcaster and TV host Brandi Milloy for a fresh spin on your festivities. Start with Showstopping Recipes When hosting for the holidays, visual dishes that look as good as they taste lend themselves toward seasonal celebrations. Try shareable creations like this Baked Camembert Wreath with Navel Orange and Cranberry for a fun way to beautify your table. Or give an edible gift like Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Peels - just place in a clear glass jar adorned with seasonal ribbon. Serve Seasonal Ingredients For added flavor in favorite dishes, look for easy-to-find, in-season ingredients like Sunkist Navel oranges, which are at their peak and deliciously sweet. Perfect for snacking or adding to recipes from cocktails to desserts, they support your immune system by offering 90% of your daily vitamin C. Wind Down with Movie Night A final touch of family festivity can be found in an evening spent watching a holiday classic like Elf. Gather loved ones, lay out favorite snacks and treats then look to the big screen for a fun way to relax and take in the joy of the season. For more recipe ideas and ways to celebrate the holidays, visit Sunkist.com. Baked Camembert Wreath with Navel Orange and Cranberry Recipe courtesy of Brandi Milloy on behalf of Sunkist Prep time: 2 hours Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 6 • 1 Sunkist Navel orange • 1 can (8 ounces) jellied cranberry sauce • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes • 1 camembert cheese wheel • 1 bag (25 ounces) frozen Parker House style rolls, thawed • sprigs rosemary, for garnish • sprigs thyme, for garnish In bowl, add zest and juice from orange. Add jellied cranberry sauce and red pepper flakes; mix. Store in airtight container in refrigerator until ready to use. Cover baking sheet or round pizza stone with parchment paper. Using cheese wheel as guide in center, arrange rolls around cheese leaving about 1/4-inch space between rolls. Create two concentric circles of rolls around cheese then place cheese back in refrigerator and let dough rise 2 hours. Heat oven to 325 F. Remove top of rind from cheese wheel and place in center of dough. Bake 7-8 minutes. Remove from oven and add orange cranberry sauce. Bake 7-8 minutes until bread is golden and cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with sprigs of rosemary and thyme. Chocolate Dipped Candied Orange Peels Recipe courtesy of Brandi Milloy on behalf of Sunkist Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 1 hour Servings: 4 • 4 Sunkist Navel oranges • 3 cups water • 1 1/2 cups sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste • 1 cup dark chocolate, melted Rinse and dry oranges. Slice both ends off each orange. Using paring knife, carefully score each orange in quarters then remove peel from each section, trying not to get too much pith. Slice peels into 1/4-inch strips. Add to pot and cover with water and sugar; stir. Bring to boil. Turn heat to medium-low until water reaches soft simmer. Simmer 45 minutes. Add vanilla before turning off heat and stirring.Remove peels from syrup and cool on wire rack. Roll in sugar to coat. Serve immediately or dry at least 4 hours, or overnight. Dip candied orange peels one at a time in dark chocolate. Place on parchment paper to set up and harden. Store in airtight container. < Previous News Next News >

The Holidays Are Here - Whatever Holiday You Celebrate, I Hope They are Blessed By Hallandale Beach, Mayor Joy Cooper December 5, 2024 Share I hope all our readers and neighbors had a blessed Thanksgiving. It is hard to believe that Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa are only a short 20 and 21 days away. It looks like the holidays around the town. Gulfstream Park kicked off the holiday with the Symphony of Lights Tree Lighting Ceremony this past Saturday, it was the first time I had the opportunity to do the countdown with my grandchildren. I highly recommend it as one of your holiday stops. It’s a beautiful display with magnificent light shows set to music. It is free to the public and will continue until December 31st. You can also shop at home goods shops and clothing stores and even enjoy one of the many restaurants. Our City has also begun to install our Christmas lights around town. I’m always asked why all the medians aren’t decorated. Not all medians throughout the city are wired with electrical service. We received permission from FDOT over twenty plus years ago to hardwire the two main medians on East Hallandale Beach Boulevard. This location was where we held our Holiday Festival through a partnership with the Hallandale Beach Shopping Center. We moved the Holiday Festival to Peter Bluesten Park after it was completed. Our Staff has been working on our “Holiday in the Park” that will be held this Friday, December 6th. Each year the City kicks off the holiday season with this wonderful family event for all ages. The family friendly event featured Children's Activities, Holiday Crafts, Community Performances, Visits with Santa, Holiday Music, Inflatables, Amusements, Food Trucks and more. There is no entry fee to attend. A $5 arm band allows unlimited access to the amusements and inflatables. For more information on this year's event, visit: www.coHB.org/Holiday. As the holidays are upon us, we want all our residents to know we understand that the season brings even more traffic to our roadways. We remain focused on providing alternatives. To our neighbors just coming in for the season, we have “The Hallandale Beach Cloud Bus.” This is our new and improved minibus system. It is electric and free to ride. We have reduced the wait time by adding more buses on the routes. We also have a Cloud Bus app that you can download and receive real-time bus locations. We also connect to Aventura Mall and north to Tri-rail. Buses run from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Sunday with some days until 7:45 p.m. Visit: www.theCloudHB.com for more information. Do you need to get somewhere and cannot get the bus? We are providing 10-dollar ride vouchers for Uber and Lyft citywide to visit any business in our CRA boundaries. This is everything west of 14th Avenue. We did a pilot program with Freebee but found that the cost per ride was not cost beneficial for the limited-service area. We want to make sure we support buying from and visiting local businesses. We encourage our residents to visit our many stores and restaurants by taking not just our bus but Uber or Lyft. Do not worry about parking or about designating a driver. Leave the drive to us and enjoy our entertainment options safely. Visit the CRA’s website to find out more at: www.cohbCRA.org Our CRA offers many assistance programs for residents and businesses within the boundaries. We know many are struggling to make ends meet. Whether it is rental assistance, addressing code issues, buying your first home, improving, or expanding your business, there may be a program that fits your needs. Last meeting we approved a new program. Many of our restaurants have been struggling through the season and are dealing with increased costs. One may ask why it’s important to help a restaurant or business. Many of our local businesses provide jobs for our residents. If they go out of business that means more people won’t be able to make ends meet. Just like our rental assistance program this program provides gap funding to stay in business. For more information, please visit: www.cohbCRA.org . Whatever holiday you have celebrated or will be celebrating, I hope they are blessed. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit me on my Facebook page at: Mayor Joy Cooper. Like, follow, and share. < Previous News Next News >

Kyle Kuzma Family Foundation South Florida Sun Times Jul 16, 2025 NBA Champion And Philanthropist Kyle Kuzma And The Kyle Kuzma Family Foundation Are Proud To Announce The 2nd Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament, Presented By The Dalmore Whiskey. The Event Will Be Held From Thursday, July 17th, 2025 – Friday, July 18th, 2025 At The Prestigious Shell Bay Club In Hallandale Beach, Florida, Where Kuzma Is A Member. “Bringing this tournament back for a second year is incredibly meaningful because it represents so much more than a day on the course. It’s a reflection of what my family and I value most: community, connection and showing up for others,” said Kyle Kuzma. “As someone raised by a single mother, the mission at the heart of this event is very personal to me. We’re proud to host an unforgettable weekend that brings people together to drive real and lasting support for families who need it the most.” The event kicks off on Thursday, July 17th, 2025 with an exclusive welcome dinner at Delilah Miami, the renowned fine-dining hotspot known for its five-star service and a-list atmosphere. The red-carpet event will be attended by Kyle Kuzma alongside special guests Alonzo Mourning, Coach Doc Rivers, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and other notable stars. Guests will enjoy world-class cuisine, live entertainment, and a high-energy auction featuring luxury items and experiences from supporters including The Dalmore, Fanatics, and Pretzelized. The proceeds will benefit the Kyle Kuzma Family Foundation’s mission to support single mothers and their children. On Friday, July 18th, 2025, the main event unfolds at Shell Bay Club’s 7,254-yard private championship golf course designed by World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman. The 80-player celebrity “shamble tournament” will include top athletes, entertainers, and VIP guests. The day concludes with a gourmet awards luncheon prepared by Shell Bay’s celebrated culinary team, complemented by activations from top partners to deliver an elevated, immersive guest experience on and off the course. About the Kyle Kuzma Family Foundation Founded in 2019, the mission of the Kyle Kuzma Family Foundation is to provide single mothers every opportunity to reach their true and full potential and to enrich the lives of their children. By creating programs, helping and resources through groups and to help fund other organizations with similar initiatives, the Kyle Kuzma Family Foundation aims to help single mothers and their children thrive in the environments in which they live. At the start of 2023, Kyle Kuzma Family Foundation donated an astounding One Million Dollars to the YMCA of Kyle’s hometown, Flint, Michigan. About Shell Bay Club Led by visionary real estate development firms Witkoff and PPG, Shell Bay is a private club and residential destination in Hallandale Beach featuring 108 luxury, bespoke residences; a forthcoming 60-key resort, both in partnership with award-winning Auberge Resorts Collection; and Shell Bay Club including an array of premier sporting, leisure, and social amenities. Anchored by a 7,254-yard Greg Norman designed private, championship golf course, Shell Bay Club opened in October 2023 and is not only the first new world-class private club to open in Miami in more than two decades, but also one of the most prestigious and exclusive new golf experiences in North America. Additional amenities include The Racquet Club with grand slam-caliber European clay courts, pickleball, and padel courts; a Member’s Pavilion with modern locker rooms including private men’s and women’s spas and lounges; indoor and outdoor dining; and The Shell Bay Yacht Club with 48 slips, private charters, and excursions. To learn more about Shell Bay Club, please visit: https://www.shellbayresidences.com/shellbayclub/ . About JP Sports + Entertainment (“JPSE”) Founded in 2007 by Pete Falcone, JPSE is a sports & entertainment agency specializing in providing turnkey event management services, consulting, sponsorship activation, corporate hospitality, and property sales representation. Since its inception, JPSE has been responsible for raising over $40M for hundreds of charities including the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Motion Picture & Television Fund and Folds of Honor through its development and management of events such as the Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational, the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation Celebrity Invitational, and the Notah Begay III Foundation Challenge. The JPSE leadership team has assisted notable sports and entertainment celebrity icons such as Jack Nicklaus, Michael Jordan, Derek Jeter, Mark Wahlberg, Jerome Bettis, Klay Thompson, Lady A, Maria Sharapova, Chris Paul, and more. JPSE also has extensive experience assisting Corporate America including sponsorship activations for clients such as MGM Resorts International, UKG, iCapital, Zip Recruiter and the execution of C-level, customized corporate hospitality programs for various Fortune 500 companies in conjunction with major sporting events such as the Super Bowl, Masters, Ryder Cup, US Open Tennis, Kentucky Derby and more. Previous Next

City of Aventura Special Election Fri Mar 18 2022 04:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale: Every Day, 37 Lives Are Needlessly Cut Short In Drunk Driving Crashes Thu Feb 20 2025 21:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)