Sweet Family Favorites To Celebrate Lent Thu Mar 21 2024 16:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Make America Sane Again? A Look Into the Psychological Issues Facing Individuals In Contemporary America July 21, 2022 Share Has America gone completely off the rails? Is the country on the precipice of a total collapse? Not quite yet, at least not from a psychological perspective, said Dr. Michael Adamse in his new book, Make America Sane Again: A Mental Health Expert Weighs In. “A strong case can be made that it’s too late to change society’s course. The good news is that it’s not too late to alter your course,” Adamse wrote in the book’s introduction. In Make America Sane Again, Adamse uses his background in philosophy and clinical psychology to tackle the critical topic of America’s mental health from two important — and completely nonpolitical — perspectives. First, Adamse explores the myriad nationally scaled issues such as addiction, violence, loneliness, the double-edged sword of technology and other concerns that continue to undermine America’s mental health. Then, after taking readers on a deep dive into the factors influencing the current mental health crisis, Adamse emphasizes personal responsibility and offers readers practical suggestions on how to address these challenging sources of stress and what they, as individuals, can do to contribute to America’s welfare. Written in a conversational style, Make America Sane Again uses well established psychological principles to evaluate what is happening in this country on a deeper level and what readers can do to improve their own well-being, which, in turn, helps everyone. “I think we should be aware and concerned about America’s mental health, but not panicked,” Adamse added. “Panic subverts rational thinking and simplifies complex issues into a primitive state of fear … The path forward is clear if we intelligently learn to manage the influences that work to distract us.” About the Author Michael Adamse received his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Miami after completing a pre-doctoral fellowship at Yale University. He was appointed as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at both the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University, where he lectured worldwide. He also served as a Captain in the Medical Corps, U.S. Army Reserve. Dr. Adamse specializes in relationship issues and has practiced for over forty years. He is an expert psychological commentator and has participated in over 300 radio, print and TV interviews. His first book, Affairs of the Net, published by HCI Books in 1996, represented a cutting-edge online relationship study. In addition, Dr. Adamse has appeared on multiple national media outlets in recognition of his expertise in this area. He also hosted a weekly National Public Radio Show, On the Couch, which featured interviews with various nationally recognized leaders in literature, the arts, entertainment, politics, and the media. For more information, please visit https://makeamericasaneagain.net/ < Previous News Next News >

Chanukah Discovery: Rare Coins Unearth Hasmonean History By Hanan Greenwood and Assaf Golan Jan 7, 2025 A remarkable archaeological discovery emerged in the Jordan Valley during this year’s Chanukah Festival: a cache of coins minted under King of Judea Alexander Jannaeus, a significant ruler of the Hasmonean Kingdom from 104–76 BCE. ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us. Previous Next

Roosevelt Collier & Special Guest JUke: The ArtsPark Live Concert Series Returns to Downtown Hollywood August 5, 2021 Share Soft spoken by nature, Roosevelt Collier does his hollering on the pedal steel guitar The ArtsPark Live Concert Series, returns to the ArtsPark at Young Circle in Downtown Hollywood, on Saturday, August 7th at 7:00 p.m. featuring the scorching blues of Roosevelt Collier and Special Guest JUke. The series will continue through November with a number of different artists and musical genres, highlighted each month. The lineup of artists, are now scheduled, to appear as follows: ArtsPark Live Concert Series Event Schedule: • Saturday, August 7: Roosevelt Collier & Special Guest JUke • Saturday, September 25: Cortadito & Friends • Saturday, October 23: The Motowners • Saturday, November 13: The Big Swing Concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. at the ArtsPark Amphitheater, 1 Young Circle, in Downtown Hollywood. Admission is free and lawn seating is available. The ArtsPark Live Concert Series is presented by the City of Hollywood and curated in partnership with Gene de Souza. As a reminder, this venue is plastic and foam free, single-use plastic containers are prohibited. For more information, please visit the event calendar on the City’s website at: www.HollywoodFL.org . About Roosevelt Collier & JUke Soft spoken by nature, Roosevelt Collier does his hollering on the pedal steel guitar. Brought up in Perrine, FL, Collier built his “sacred steel” guitar prowess alongside his uncles and cousins in The Lee Boys, known for their spirited, soul-shaking live performances. On his own, Collier’s become a sought-after talent both on record and on stage, performing alongside musical luminaries of rock, blues and pop, including The Allman Brothers, Buddy Guy, Umphrey's McGee, Los Lobos, Robert Randolph, The String Cheese Incident, Tedeschi-Trucks Band, among countless others. Always seated front and center, "The Dr.", as he is affectionally known, leaves an indelible mark on listeners, flooring audiences with his lightning-fast slide work on the pedal steel. Opening the night is JUke, a four-piece “post-blues” hybrid with a high motor and bottomless soul. Their shows are spearheaded by front man and harmonica-whiz Eric Garcia, who revs up the band to fire on all cylinders. JUke has both backed and opened for G. Love and Zach Deputy, opened for Gary Clark Jr. and wowed folks at festivals like Wanee, Hulaween, and many more. For additional event information, please contact the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts at: (954) 921-3404. < Previous News Next News >

Something Different and Unique: Mat Art Exhibit by Felicia Ray February 3, 2022 Share Original Meet & Greet was scheduled for Jan. 11th, but due to Covid was rescheduled for Feb. 9th. ABOUT THE ARTIST Felicia has worked diligently to perfect her unique style of artwork described as “Mat Art by Felicia” The process of layering, peeling, scraping and digging into full mat boards to create a different and unique texture has become her obsession. Acrylic or watercolor are the mediums she prefers to best showcase the texturing effect. She also recycles the peelings back into the artwork to create additional texture. The majority of her recent works have been abstracts in a minimalistic style. Felicia is a long time resident of Broward County and she has successfully sold her art on Las Olas Blvd. and the general Fort Lauderdale area. She is currently entering some of her artwork in various local competitions and intends to continue putting her work out there for the public to see and enjoy. YOU ARE INVITED You are invited to a Meet and Greet the Artist on February 9th from 5:30 to 8:00. at the Hallan-dale Beach Community Center, 410 SE 3rd St., Hallandale Beach, FL 33009, conveniently located behind City Hall, and to the side of the Flashback Diner. Due to Covid restrictions - masks are required and no food can be served. A gift bag will be given to guests upon leaving, while they last. If you plan to attend please email the artist at feliciMray@yahoo.com to advise your name and the number of people attending. A free raffle will be available which will provide at least 6 guests with a free bookmark created and signed by the artist. If any sales of artwork are produced by this event, the artist will discount 10%, in If any sales of artwork are produced by this event, the artist will discount 10% , in addition to giving a 10% donation to ArtServe or the Broward Art Guild who provide classes and workshops for budding artists and opportunities to exhibit their artwork. She will also donate 10% to a humanitarian cause. If you cannot attend the Meet and Greet, the exhibit will be open to the public during the month of February and is available to be seen Monday – Thurs-day from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. < Previous News Next News >

Glitter And Be Gay! - Experience “The Best Of All Possible Worlds” At New World Center In Miami Beach December 30, 2024 Share Continuing with its thrilling Icons & Rebels Masterworks Season, South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is proud to present its premiere of Leonard Bernstein’s satirical masterpiece Candide on Tuesday, January 14th, 2025 at New World Center in Miami Beach and on Thursday, January 16th, 2025 at Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Both concerts will start at 7:30 p.m. A pre-concert chat with Dr. Alan Mason will take place 30 minutes before the show at the New World Center featuring in-depth conversation and insights about the work and composer. Led by SFSO’s Award-Winning music director Sebrina María Alfonso, this semi-staged concert version of Candide follows in the manner of Lonny Price’s 2004 production for the New York Philharmonic, made popular through the PBS series “Great Performances.” Bernstein’s acclaimed masterpiece is played out with the orchestra, minimal sets and costumes, a dynamic cast of actor-vocalists featuring David Walton (Candide); Chelsea Lehnea (Cunegonde); Jason Zacher (Dr. Pangloss/Voltaire); Alissa Anderson (The Old Lady), Lovell Rose (Maximilian), and the South Florida Symphony Chorus performing all together on stage. Dan Wallace Miller provides stage direction. Experience Candide’s riotous journey as he embarks on a whirlwind adventure teeming with humor, unexpected twists, and profound philosophical reflections. Bernstein’s iconic music, adapted from Voltaire’s famed Enlightenment-era novella, sets the backdrop for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter and existential musings. An equal opportunity offender, Candide spares no one. Everything and everyone is fair game in this irreverent satire. "Our premiere of Candide is a rare opportunity to experience one of Bernstein’s most thought-provoking masterpieces – a thrilling blend of outrageous humor, poignant storytelling, and unforgettable music that follows the endlessly optimistic Candide on his quest for the best of all possible worlds,” says Maestra Alfonso. “From wars and earthquakes to shipwrecks and heartbreak, it’s a globetrotting adventure of calamities and self-discovery. I am always eager to program unexpected and exciting works, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to present this unique adaptation, one of our boldest and most ambitious premieres since Porgy and Bess, to our South Florida audiences. Buckle up because we are all in for one heck of a ride.” From the over-the-top heights of Cunegonde’s “Glitter and Be Gay” and the rarely heard comedic duet “We Are Women” to the stirring depths of Candide’s introspective ponderings, audiences will enjoy a provocative perspective on life’s absurdities and the enduring pursuit of optimism. Adding allure to the premiere evening on January 16th, 2025 at Broward Center, Symphony patrons are invited to attend the “Glitter and Be Gay Gala” 2025. The separately ticketed formal gala evening (held prior to the performance), recognizing community leaders and supporting SFSO’s impactful artistic, educational, and community outreach initiatives, begins at 5:00 p.m. and includes bubbles and hors d’oeuvres on the Wendt Terraces, a multi-course dinner in the Mary N. Porter Riverview Ballroom, the Candide performance and dancing dessert and dancing with the artists post-performance in the Mary N. Porter Riverview Ballroom. Tickets start at $500 and can be purchased at: https://southfloridasymphony.org/gala-2025. Now in its 27th Season, SFSO invites audiences to a tantalizing season featuring upcoming works by Mozart, Strauss, Berlioz, Prokofiev and Bruckner. The concerts will take place in Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Key West. From sold-out masterworks performances to accompanying today’s musicians such as Natalie Merchant and performing modern musical scores, South Florida’s largest symphonic orchestra is continuing its journey of excellence inspiring audiences of all ages and musical genres. This season’s popular collaborations included performances of ARRIVAL From Sweden: The Music of ABBA and Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, featuring the iconic film screened live with audio and musical accompaniment. Tickets for Candide are on sale now beginning at $25. For the January 14th, 2025 Concert, buy tickets online at: https://southfloridasymphony.org - By phone at: (305) 673-3331. Or in-person at the New World Center Box Office. For the January 16th, 2025 Concert, buy tickets online at: https://southfloridasymphony.org - By phone at: (954) 462-0222. Or in-person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. For additional information, visit: https://southfloridasymphony.org - Call: (954) 522-8445. Or email: info@southfloridasymphony.org . About South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, the now Fort Lauderdale based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is celebrating its 27th Season. SFSO is dedicated to providing enriching cultural music experiences to residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative programming and transformative educational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communities, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of over 125,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored. For a performance schedule and season tickets, visit: https://southfloridasymphony.org - Call: (954) 522-8445. Or email: info@southfloridasymphony.org . < Previous News Next News >

Become An Involved Citizen: Your Chance To Shape Hallandale Beach’s Future August 15, 2024 Share The vibrant and diverse community of Hallandale Beach has long thrived on the dedication and enthusiasm of its residents. One of the most effective ways to contribute to this thriving community is through active participation in the City's Boards and Committees. These volunteer groups are instrumental in shaping policy, guiding development, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. With numerous openings across various boards and committees, now is the perfect time for citizens to step up and make a difference. The Role of Advisory Boards and Committees In Hallandale Beach, the City Commission is empowered to create and oversee boards, authorities, and agencies through municipal ordinances. These advisory bodies serve a crucial function by providing non-binding strategic advice and recommendations to the City Commission. Their work encompasses a range of issues from community development and parks management to sustainability and transportation. Currently, there are thirteen active boards and committees in Hallandale Beach, each with its specific mandate and responsibilities. These groups rely heavily on the volunteer efforts of dedicated residents who are passionate about contributing to the betterment of their city. If you're interested in becoming an involved citizen and helping to guide the future of Hallandale Beach, consider applying for one of the open positions listed below. 1. Civil Service Board (CSB) – 1 Vacancy The Civil Service Board plays a critical role in recommending rules and regulations for municipal employees, including their conduct, duties, and discipline. The board also conducts investigations into the Enforcement of its Codes and reports annually to the City Commission. Composed of five members, including a police officer and a city employee with civil service status, the board is seeking a new member to join its ranks. Ideal candidates should have experience or interest in human resources or municipal regulations. 2. Parks & Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) – 4 Vacancies With ten members, the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board advises the City Commission on all matters related to Public Parks, Playgrounds, and Recreational Facilities. This includes recommending Rules and Regulations, Evaluating Beautification and Accessibility Issues, and Promoting Volunteer Programs. Board members are appointed by the five City Commissioners, each nominating two residents. If you have a passion for Community Development, Parks, or Recreation, this board could be your perfect fit. 3. Planning and Zoning Board (PZB) – 1 Vacancy The Planning and Zoning Board is responsible for reviewing and making recommendations on Zoning Changes, Land Use Plans, and Major Development Proposals. This board consists of five members, one non-voting School Board Representative, and two alternates. Ideal candidates should have experience or a strong interest in Planning, Zoning, and Land Development. If you have a background in these areas and want to influence how Hallandale Beach grows, this position may be for you. 4. Public Transportation, Traffic & Parking Advisory Board – 3 Vacancies This board helps the City Commission Plan and Implement Mass Transit Programs, Address Traffic and Parking Issues, and Consider Accessibility for all Residents. Members assist in creating strategies to improve Transportation and Parking in the city. If you are interested in Urban Planning, Transportation, or Traffic Management, this board offers an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the City’s Infrastructure. 5. Sustainability and Flood Mitigation Advisory Board – 2 Vacancies Focusing on Resource Conservation, Renewable Energy, and Sustainability, this board helps the City Commission develop and promote Environmentally Friendly practices. The board is composed of five members, with two positions specifically reserved for individuals under 18. If you are passionate about Sustainability, Environmental Issues, or Energy Efficiency, this board is an excellent platform to contribute to Hallandale Beach’s Green Future. 6. Three Islands Safe Neighborhood District Advisory Board – 2 Vacancies This board reviews and provides advice on the Safe Neighborhood Improvement Plan, District Budget, and related matters. It also prepares Annual Reports and collaborates with City Representatives to Enhance Safety and Improvements in the district. Residents with an interest in Neighborhood Safety and Community Improvement will find this board’s work both rewarding and impactful. 7. HBCRA Quadrant Safety Board – 5 Vacancies The Quadrant Safety Board fosters communication between the Police and Community Members, focusing on Safety Measures and Redevelopment Projects in the City’s Quadrants. With nine members, including representatives from each of the four quadrants and one at-large member, this board is key to addressing Safety Concerns and Enhancing Community-Police Relations. If you have an interest in Safety, Community Engagement, or Local Redevelopment, consider applying for this board. How to Apply Getting involved is straightforward. Interested residents can fill out the Advisory Board and Committee Application form available online at the City of Hallandale Beach’s official website. The form can be downloaded directly from this link: https://hallandalebeachfl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/33294/Boards-and-Committees-Member-Application-Form---2024?bidId= - Or completed online at: https://hallandalebeachfl.gov/FormCenter/City-Clerk-8/Committee-Member-Application-Form-55. The Importance of Civic Engagement Participating in city boards and committees is more than just a role; it's a commitment to improving the community you call home. By joining a board or committee, you contribute to decision-making processes that affect Local Policies, Development Projects, and Community Well-Being. Your involvement helps ensure that diverse perspectives are considered and that the needs and concerns of all residents are addressed. Hallandale Beach has a rich tradition of Community Involvement, and the success of its boards and committees is a testament to the dedication of its residents. Whether you are passionate about Parks and Recreation, Urban Planning, Sustainability, or Public Safety, there is a place for you to make a meaningful contribution. Get involved today and help shape the future of Hallandale Beach. Your voice matters, and your participation can make a real difference in our community. For further information about the boards and committees, visit: http://www.cohb.org/Advisory < Previous News Next News >

Twisted Tales To Touching Human Trials - Celebrate The Power Of Surprise Through Inventive Storytelling With Island City Stage South Florida Sun Times Apr 24, 2025 Get Ready For A Theatre Season That Will Keep You Guessing, Grinning, And Gasping! Island City Stage, The Award-Winning Theatre Committed To Sharing Stories Of Universal Interest And Engaging Diverse Audiences With Entertaining, Challenging, And Inspiring Productions And Programs, Often Exploring The LGBTQ+ Culture, Is Proud To Unveil Its 2025-2026 Season - A Dynamic Lineup Of Five Bold Productions, Each Delivering Unexpected Twists, Inventive Storytelling, And Unforgettable Theatrical Moments. Whether A Beloved Classic Or An Exciting New Work, Every Show Promises A “Surprise” That Will Leave Audiences Talking Long After The Final Curtain. “This is an extraordinary season of creative, yet unpredictable storytelling,” said Andy Rogow, Artistic Director of Island City Stage. “Each play ends in a way that’s either delightfully unexpected or offers a fresh take you didn’t see coming. And whether it’s through plot twists or innovative production choices, our audiences are in for something truly entertaining.” The 2025-2026 Season features a recent Broadway hit, a Southern Gothic classic, a campy musical romp, and two powerful new plays – meticulously curated to entertain, challenge, and engage. Island City Stage’s 2025-2026 Season Ruthless! Book and Lyrics by Joel Paley | Music by Marvin Laird | Directed by Andy Rogow Thursday, November 6th, 2025 – Sunday, December 7th, 2025 Buckle-up for this killer musical comedy! Eight-year-old Tina Denmark is determined to be a star - by any means necessary. This cult favorite delivers camp, comedy, and jaw-dropping twists in a satirical send-up of stage mothers and showbiz ambition. The Little Foxes By Lillian Hellman | Directed by Michael Leeds Thursday, January 8th, 2026 – Sunday, February 8th, 2026 Greed and betrayal rule the day in this Southern classic. Lillian Hellman’s fierce drama exposes the dark ambitions of the Hubbard family in a gripping tale of wealth, power, and ruthlessness. This elegant period piece packs a shocking emotional punch. Light Switch By Dave Osmundsen | Directed by Michael Leeds Thursday, April 2nd, 2025 – Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 What happens when a romantic dreamer finds real-world love? This touching new play follows Henry, a gay autistic man navigating love and identity in a world that often overlooks him. Moving, funny, and deeply human, Light Switch is a luminous journey of self-discovery. Everything Beautiful Happens at Night By Ted Malawer | Directed by Bruce Linser Thursday, May 21st, 2025 – June 21st, 2026 Set in 1980’s Manhattan, this Florida premiere follows a famed children’s author facing writer’s block and personal upheaval. A new voice and a daring ending changes everything in this compelling and timely exploration of creativity, loyalty, and reinvention. Eureka Day By Jonathan Spector | Directed by Andy Rogow Thursday, August 20th, 2026 – Sunday, September 20th, 2026 Consensus turns to chaos in this satirical comedy about an elite private school rocked by a mumps outbreak. As Zoom unravels and beliefs clash, Eureka Day hilariously captures the challenges of modern communication - and what happens when “inclusive” ideals are put to the test. From twisted tales to touching human stories, Island City Stage's upcoming season invites you to expect the unexpected. “Every story this season has been selected to entertain while giving audiences something to think and talk about,” added Rogow. Returning this year will be Island City Stage’s popular Women’s Night at the Theatre and Mimosa Sundays featuring a light bites reception and a post-show talk back; Mimosa Sundays are included in the Flexpass subscriptions. Also continuing will be the popular “Comedy After Hours” late night performances featuring South Florida's best comedians bringing their uniquely warped versions of reality with killer stand-up comedy and a few other twists and surprises along the way. Individual show tickets start at $45 per show. This season will offer two Flexpass options. The Flexpass5: $225 offers five tickets that can be used all for one show or one for every show; no processing fees and $5 off additional tickets purchased; $52 upfront savings. The Flexpass3: $136 offers three tickets that can be used all for one show or one for every show,no processing fees and $5 off additional tickets purchased; $33 upfront savings. Discounts are available for groups. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.islandcitystage.org - Call: (954) 928-9800. Or email: boxoffice@islandcitystage.org . Follow Island City Stage on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/IslandCityStageFL - And on Instagram at: @islandcitystage1. Previous Next

PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary Awarded $25,000 Grant - Hundreds of South Florida Spay + Neuter Surgeries Funded by Specialty License Plates South Florida Sun Times Dec 3, 2025 PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary (PURRR) Can Now Offer Free Spay + Neuter Services For TNR (Trap, Neuter, And Return) And Community Cats Thanks To A $25,000 Grant From Florida Animal Friend. The Organization Provides Grants To Animal Organizations Throughout The State Of Florida To Support Low-Or No-Cost Spay + Neuter Services, Funded Directly By Its Specialty Spay + Neuter License Plate, Helping Save Countless Homeless Pets. PURRR Will Use The Funds To Spay + Neuter Over 400 South Florida Cats. Founded in 2018, PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) NonProfit Organization with a mission to transform cats' lives one PURRR at a time, through rescue, adoption, and spay + neuter initiatives that help reduce overpopulation and enrich the human-feline connection. PURRR is committed to giving cats and their companions a better future by offering a safe haven and encouraging responsible pet ownership. PURRR offers low-cost, high-quality, high-volume spay + neuter services exclusively for cats. Since launching its clinic in 2021, PURRR has become one of the few organizations in Broward County solely dedicated to this initiative. In 2024 alone, PURRR performed 3,048 surgeries, 2,598 at its clinic in Fort Lauderdale and 450 through partnerships with shelters. “South Florida faces a feline overpopulation crisis, driven by limited access to affordable, high-volume spay + neuter,” said Michelle Schecht, Executive Director of PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary. “We are deeply grateful to Florida Animal Friend for their commitment to animal welfare. This vital support expands our efforts to prevent overpopulation and provide lifesaving services for the region’s most vulnerable animals. The community can join the cause by purchasing a spay/neuter license plate. Each purchase directly funds programs like ours.” Feline overpopulation in South Florida stems from a lack of accessible, affordable, and high-volume spay + neuter services, compounded by the continued, unmanageable growth of the community cat population. The demand for services far exceeds availability, particularly for free-roaming cats. PURRR’s Spay + Neuter program is built on principles of accessibility, collaboration, and impact, serving the public, independent trappers, rescue organizations, and underserved communities. To support spay + neuter, PURRR offers significantly reduced rates for community cats, along with discounted pricing for rescues. These subsidies ensure that cost is never a barrier to preventing future litter and reducing overpopulation. PURRR believes that reducing feline overpopulation requires a unified, community-driven approach. PURRR has cultivated strong partnerships to extend its reach and maximize impact. Its clinic model combines surgical efficiency with compassionate, individualized care, ensuring each cat receives the attention and safety they deserve. PURRR’s dedicated team is driven by a deep love for cats and a commitment to their well-being and is committed to providing consistent, lifesaving services to South Florida’s most vulnerable feline populations. The community cat population remains largely unmanaged and continues to grow. Financial support and resources in South Florida remain limited and insufficient to meet the community’s growing needs. This leaves a critical gap, particularly for community cats and those caring for large colonies, placing the burden on independent trappers, grassroots rescuers, and nonprofits who also have limited resources. Most trappers and independent rescuers pay out of pocket or try to fundraise to cover the cost of sterilization, which can be prohibitive when managing dozens, or even hundreds, of cats. With limited funding and few affordable options, necessary surgeries are often delayed, leading to continued breeding cycles and further straining the system. As the feline population continues to grow, the current availability of services cannot meet the ongoing and urgent demand, especially during peak kitten season, which is year-round with surges in spring and late summer. High-volume, affordable, feline-only programs like PURRR’s are vital to closing this gap and providing the community with a realistic, accessible path to preventing overpopulation. For more information about PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary and spay + neuter and vaccine services, please visit: www.purrr.org . About PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary: Founded by Tanya Lynn Heller in 2018, PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) NonProfit Organization with a mission to transform cats' lives one PURRR at a time. Through rescue, adoption and spay-and-neuter initiatives, PURRR’s passionate team of cat lovers are dedicated to helping reduce overpopulation and enrich the human-feline connection. PURRR’s dedicated team works to create a better future for cats and their companions by providing safe haven and promoting responsible pet ownership across South Florida. PURRR’s team and volunteers are driven by a deep love for cats and bring a wealth of experience and compassion to everything they do. For more information about PURRR Adoption + Sanctuary, please visit: www.purrr.org . For more information about rescue, adoption and spay + neuter initiatives. Email: info@purrr.org. Or call: (954) 745-0801. Follow along on Social Media on Facebook and Instagram. Previous Next

Happy 100th Miriam Esther Schwartz Tue Sep 19 2023 16:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Zumba & Yoga in the Park Are A Hit June 13, 2022 Share The City of Aventura started offering complimentary Zumba classes to Aventura residents of all ages beginning in March and has been a huge success. The new Zumba program includes a certified Zumba instructor teaching this fun fitness class involving aerobic movement and Latin dance. Participants should be ready to bring a positive mood, have fun and bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. When: Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Where: Founders Park 3105 NE 190 St. If Yoga is more your thing, the popular series of complimentary yoga classes at Founders Park is still happening for yogis of all skill levels to enjoy. Held outdoors in the City’s beautiful Founders Park, these classes offer the perfect atmosphere to relax, breath and stretch together with the help of a certified instructor. The duration of the class is approximately one hour, classes start at 9:00 a.m. every Friday. Students must bring their own Yoga mats, a small towel and water for convenience. Please plan to be in class for approximately one hour. Registration is open and spots are limited. All participants must be registered prior to attending. Registration can be completed exclusively online only with a valid and existing account at cityofaventura.com/ors. For more information about the event email: parksrec@cityofaventura.com or call: 305-466-0183. Health & Safety Please be advised that in response to the Coronavirus Pandemic and the return to the new normal phases of operations, the City of Aventura’s Community Services Department has carefully planned and prepared this program with the safety of its community in mind. Safety guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Florida Department of Health (FDOH), and Miami-Dade County are being followed. The safety and health of the Aventura community is important, and the City takes all the necessary steps to ensure its safety. To safely protect the health and welfare of the staff and participants, class space is limited and is available for adult Aventura residents (ages 18 and older) only. All participants will be required to space out a minimum of 10 feet during class. < Previous News Next News >

City Of Hollywood Launches Turtle-Friendly Lighting Recognition Program March 2, 2023 Share This week marks the beginning of the 2023 Sea Turtle Nesting Season, which takes place every year from March 1st through October 31st. During this time, the City Of Hollywood’s “Turtle Friendly Lighting Ordinance” is in effect, when the City’s Hatchlings are attracted to light. On undeveloped beaches, the ocean horizon is lighter than the land so new hatchlings head toward the water. In an urban beach environment, artificial light from buildings can disorient hatchlings and attract them away from the ocean. Turtle friendly lighting can minimize disorientation and make Hollywood Beach more hospitable to these endangered species. The Broward County Sea Turtle Conservation Program (BCSTCP) documented 3,650 nests on the County's 24-mile coastline (including the Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park) in 2022. That’s a record for our area, and Hollywood’s sandy beach plays an important role in that success. Our beach is the desired nesting habitat for three species of endangered sea turtles: leatherbacks, loggerheads and greens. It is vital that everyone does their part to ensure future successful nesting seasons on Hollywood Beach. Sea Turtle Friendly Lighting Lighting near the beach should be "sea turtle-friendly" and follow these three criteria established by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): Keep it low: Fixtures should be mounted as low as possible to achieve their purpose and their bulbs should produce the lowest lumens (light output) necessary for the task. In addition to low lumens, keep the fixture shielded, the bulb, lamp or glowing lens should be shielded from the beach and the interior lights should not be visible from the beach. If you live near the beach, close your curtains, shades and blinds after sunset. One item you may not be aware of is, wavelength, no we aren't talking about the length of the ocean waves here. They are talking about the output, the fixtures/bulbs must produce long wavelength light (560 nm or longer) without filters, gels or lenses. Amber and red LEDs are good examples of these types of light. Also keep in mind that even lights from cell phones can also disturb nesting and hatching sea turtles. If you visit the beach at night during nesting season, keep your cell phone safely stowed in your pocket or bag. Turtle Friendly Lighting Recognition Pilot Program The City Of Hollywood has launched a Turtle Friendly Lighting Recognition Pilot Program. The goal of the program is to increase awareness and compliance with the City’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance by way of recognition of those property owners who are certified compliant. Hollywood’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance (§108, O-2011-07) requires that exterior lights be mounted as low in elevation as possible, shielded so that the light source is not visible from the beach, directed down and away from the beach and have a low wattage amber or red bulb. To reduce or eliminate the visibility of interior light from the beach, tinted glass or film must be installed on north, east and south facing doors and windows on new developments. Existing buildings can install window and door tint, move light fixtures away from windows, close the blinds and curtains, and turn off all unnecessary lights. To receive recognition, a property must fully comply with the City’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance (§108, O-2011-07). The certification process can be found at: www.HollywoodFL.org/TurtleLighting Apply today to be recognized by clicking the online application at: www.HollywoodFL.org/TurtleLighting < Previous News Next News >