Pompano Beach Cultural Center Unveils Floripalmae (FLOR-ih-PAHL-may) South Florida Sun Times Jul 23, 2026 The City Of Pompano Beach Invites The Public To The Unveiling And Dedication Of Floripalmae, A Striking New Public Artwork By Artist, Architect, Engineer, And Fabricator David Eaton, Founder Of Partwise Design And Art. The Monumental Sculptural Mural Will Be Unveiled On Monday, August 3rd, 2026, From 10:00 a.m. To 11:00 a.m. At The Front Entrance Of The Pompano Beach Cultural Center, 50 West Atlantic Boulevard, Pompano Beach, Florida 33060. Installation Of The Artwork Is Scheduled For Monday, July 27th, 2026 – Friday, 31st, 2026. "Floripalmae is much more than an entrance mural—it is a powerful welcome to everyone who visits the Pompano Beach Cultural Center," said Ty Tabing, Cultural Affairs Director for the City of Pompano Beach. "David Eaton has created a work that beautifully captures the vitality of South Florida's natural landscape while expressing the energy, creativity, and growth that define our community. As visitors approach the Cultural Center, they'll experience an artwork that evolves with perspective, inviting them to see the extraordinary patterns found in nature up close and from a distance; while reminding us that art has the power to connect people to place. We are proud to add this remarkable installation to our growing collection of public art and to continue strengthening Pompano Beach's reputation as a vibrant cultural destination.” Designed specifically for the Cultural Center, Floripalmae is a monumental sculptural mural fabricated from 1/8-inch epoxy-painted aluminum in six colors, with riveted and anchored construction engineered for durability, longevity, and resilience. The title Floripalmae derives from Latin, combining flos, floris, meaning flower, bloom, or blossom, with palmae, the plural or possessive form of palma, meaning palm tree while also symbolizing victory, peace, and the open hand. Together, the name evokes a surreal, Edenic landscape—an elegant, lush hybrid species that is feminine, vibrant, and alive with bloom. Inspired by South Florida's distinctive flora and fauna, Floripalmae explores the concept of emergent order in natural systems—how simple rules generate dynamic, complex forms. Through an intricate geometric composition, the artwork evokes a palm grove in bloom, unfolding through layered shapes that symbolize growth, movement, energy, and a deep connection to place. Three primary color groupings reflect the City of Pompano Beach's branding palette, while a fourth green is represented by the surrounding landscape itself, completing the visual identity. As the mural ascends, its filigree becomes increasingly delicate and ephemeral, creating a dramatic fading effect through forced perspective. Engineered for both beauty and resilience, Floripalmae features three structural layers that provide redundancy and storm resistance. Approximately 30 standard 4-foot by 8-foot aluminum sheets were used to fabricate the sculpture, with individual components riveted together and labeled by location, layer, and color before being pre-assembled in Seattle and shipped to Florida. The installation has been designed for efficiency, with panelized sections that slot together and attach to the building façade using structural anchors or adhesive systems. Using a scissor lift or scaffolding, installation is expected to be completed within several days. About the Artist David Eaton is the Founder of Partwise Design and Art, a multidisciplinary practice that merges art, architecture, engineering, computation, and fabrication to create innovative public art inspired by the structural intelligence of nature. His work explores how complex forms emerge from simple systems, transforming natural patterns into immersive civic landmarks. "With Floripalmae*, I wanted to create a work that feels as though it has grown from the landscape itself," said David Eaton. "The sculpture is inspired by the remarkable flora and fauna of South Florida and by the idea that simple patterns in nature can give rise to extraordinary complexity. As visitors move toward the Cultural Center, the composition continually changes, revealing new relationships between form, color, and light. My hope is that the artwork invites people to pause, look more closely, and experience the beauty, energy, and interconnectedness that exist all around us."* Throughout his career, Eaton has collaborated on internationally recognized cultural and architectural projects with some of the industry's leading designers. At THEVERYMANY, he helped develop groundbreaking public art installations, including The Chrysalis, the community-funded annex amphitheater at Frank Gehry's Merriweather Post Pavilion. He also served as Geometry Specialist in the New York office of Santiago Calatrava, contributing to the UAE Pavilion at Expo Dubai and other public art initiatives, and later led Geometry and Computation for the visionary Amazon Helix project at NBBJ Architects. Through Partwise Design and Art, Eaton continues to create sculptural works that unite advanced fabrication techniques with the beauty and efficiency found in nature, producing memorable public spaces that inspire connection, discovery, and wonder. Floripalmae Unveiling & Dedication Monday, August 3rd, 2026 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Pompano Beach Cultural Center Front Entrance 50 West Atlantic Boulevard Pompano Beach, Florida 33060 The public is invited to attend this special unveiling celebrating the addition of Floripalmae to the City's growing public art collection. The monumental artwork reflects the beauty, resilience, and natural character of South Florida while welcoming visitors to one of the region's premier cultural destinations. About Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department The mission of the Cultural Affairs Department, operating as Pompano Beach Arts, is to provide cultural programming that includes visual arts, digital media, music, film, theater, dance, and public art for the enjoyment and enrichment of residents and visitors to Pompano Beach, Broward County, and the greater South Florida area. The department programs and manages the City’s premiere cultural arts venues, including the Pompano Beach Cultural Center, Ali Cultural Arts Center, Bailey Contemporary Arts Center, and the Blanche Ely House Museum. The department also oversees the City’s Public Art Program and the Artists in Residence (AiR) initiative. Artist, architect, engineer, and fabricator David Eaton, Founder of Partwise Design and Art. Floripalmae, a striking new public artwork. Floripalmae, a striking new public artwork. Previous Next

The City Of Pembroke Pines SnowFest 2025 South Florida Sun Times Dec 3, 2025 The City Of Pembroke Pines Recreation And Cultural Arts Department Presents SnowFest & Lighting Ceremony, A Free Event For Pembroke Pines Residents Only. Tickets Will Be Available For In-Person Pick Up Starting Monday, November 3rd At The Pembroke Lakes Tennis Center And TownGate Recreation Center. SnowFest Will Be Held On Saturday, December 6, 2025 From 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. At The Charles F. Dodge City Center, Located At 601 City Center Way. Event Details: Santa and all his cool friends will be on hand as children have a chance to play in tons of snow. The air will also be filled with the sounds of the holidays with over 300 singers and dancers on the holiday stage, and snow flurries will fly through the air throughout the event. When the magical time comes, Santa and City officials will need everyone’s help to light up the 35 foot tree on the plaza. The Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place at 6:30 p.m.. There will be free parking, free rides and free activities. Concessions will be available for purchase. Ticket Info: This event is open to PEMBROKE PINES RESIDENTS only. Tickets are FREE but need to be picked up IN PERSON with proof of residency prior (driver's license and utility bill) to the event. Ticket availability is limited and on a first come, first served basis. Everyone attending must have a ticket. A maximum of 6 tickets per household. Ticket Price: Free Pick-up Locations: • Pembroke Lakes Tennis Center - 10500 Taft Street, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33026 - Monday - Friday - 8:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. and Saturday - Sunday - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. • TownGate Recreation Center - 901 Northwest 155th Avenue, Pembroke Pines, Florida - Monday - Friday - 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. and Saturday - Sunday - 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Thank you to our sponsors: • Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital | Children’s Stage Sponsor • Florida Blue | Snow Area Sponsor • Jacobs | Kids Zone Sponsor • Naidu Orthodontics | General Sponsor • American Pediatric Dental | General Sponsor Stay Connected With The City! The community can learn more about the City of Pembroke Pines’ latest events and activities by subscribing to Pembroke Pines Media on YouTube at Pembroke Pines Media, to NewsFlash, a monthly digital newsletter at: www.ppines.com/Newsflash , by reading the city’s digital newspaper City Connect at: www.ppines.com/cityconnect , visiting the city’s website at: www.ppines.com , checking the city’s digital signage, or by visiting the City’s Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/cityofpembrokepines - And: @cityofppines for Twitter and Instagram. Residents with Comcast can view Pembroke Pines Media programming on Channel 78. For more details, visit: https://www.ppines.com/1686/SnowFest Previous Next

Disney’s The Little Mermaid: A Special Event For The Entire Family November 23, 2023 Share Calling all sea-loving families! Get ready to make a splash during the most fin-tastic event of the year with ‘Under the Sea -- A Family Celebration’ at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, December 16th beginning with a fun family brunch at 11:00 a.m. in the Mary N. Porter Riverview Ballroom and followed by the opening performance of Slow Burn Theatre Company’s production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid in the Amaturo Theater at 1:00 p.m. Single tickets are now available at $275 per person and include the brunch, one prime theater seat for the performance and complimentary valet parking. In addition to a variety of themed buffet stations and beverage options for children and adults, families will embrace their creative side by diving into ocean-inspired arts and crafts, face painting and posing for amazing photo ops that will transport them to enchanted ocean depths. A DJ Dance Party will also get everyone into the swim of things before the performance. Proceeds from Under the Sea -- A Family Celebration support the Broward Center's arts-in-education and community engagement programs. At 1:00 p.m. the curtain will rise for Disney’s The Little Mermaid, based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film. Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a splashy musical extravaganza that puts the “sea” in the holiday season with a love story for the ages. When Ariel, King Triton's youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, she bargains with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs, but the bargain is not what it seems. With music by eight-time Academy Award® Winner Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, and a compelling book by Doug Wright, the musical features irresistible songs including: "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl" and "Part of Your World." Performances continue through Sunday, December 31st with an open captioned performance on Sunday, December 24th at 2:00 p.m. This production is presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International. Tables are available for $2,500 and include the fun brunch for ten guests and ten prime performance tickets to Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Sponsorship opportunities are also available beginning at $5,000. For more information or to purchase tables and tickets for the family celebration, visit: www.browardcenter.org/events/detail/under-the-sea-family-celebration-2023 - Or call: (954) 468-3298. Buy performance-only tickets for Disney’s The Little Mermaid 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. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and Parker Playhouse. 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 at: 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 performance season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center are proud sponsors of the Broward Center. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. 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 700 performances each year to more than 700,000 patrons, showcasing a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level and UHealth University of Miami 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 130,000 students annually. 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 < Previous News Next News >

A Sacred Responsibility: Solution To The Shaimos Burial Problem Fri Nov 10 2023 17:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Resilience & Impressions Of Cuba Wed Jan 15 2025 17:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Castaway Island Is Open Thu Sep 09 2021 04:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Aventura Acknowledges World Mental Health Day: To Promote Education, Treatment, Dialogue And Wellness Practices By Joyce R. Forchion - LOVE Aventura October 18, 2023 Share If there were ever an appropriate time for global citizens to figuratively pause, join hands, and breathe a collective sigh of relief, then that moment would take place on World Mental Health Day. The World Health Organization (WHO) founded the Annual October 10 observance in 1992 to communicate the fundamental human right for all individuals to promote education, treatment, and dialogue optimizing Mental Health and Wellness practices while removing all societal stigmas attached to the discourse. For the past 31 years, healthcare providers have recognized the pervasiveness of the “emotional trinity” that men and women are continuously plagued with at alarming rates– Stress, Anxiety, and Depression. Despite the efforts of policy makers and community leaders to spotlight the day of reflection, afflicted residents continue to suffer in silence while feeling the need to hide their pain in shame. “Some days, I feel as if I just can’t take it anymore. Inflation has taken its toll; simply stepping outside to face the world each morning seems to cost me $150.00 per day. My bills are never ending, and the demands of my job always keep me up each night with worry,” shared one Aventura resident who asked to remain anonymous. “The weight is heavy; help seems limited. If I can continue to appear strong in front of my kids, I feel as if I’m winning. Truth be told, I’m really crumbling inside as I try to tackle so much pressure alone.” According to the United States Census Bureau, Aventura parents account for a portion of Miami-Dade County’s highest earners with an Average Annual Household Income exceeding $70,000. Moms and Dads are sacrificing their inner peace and Well-Being to work overtime to provide for their households, stretching their boundaries to make ends meet. The approaching holiday season presents one of the most mentally polarizing times of the year as events tend to bring about experiences of delight and dread from family gatherings, gift exchanges, and even more impending bills. Moving into 2024, how can we become staunch advocates for the rights and liberties promised to us in accessing Beneficial Mental Health Resources? Below is a list of actions we can take to make personal progress before next year’s World Mental Health Day: Take Stock Of Your Life. Is there something lingering in your life that needs to be removed? Do you need to change the way in which you spend your time each day? Get to the root of why the effects of Stress have taken over your thoughts and usurped your joy. Self-care is key! Journey Inward For Answers. Be honest with yourself regarding the reasons why you’re allowing internal and external influences to rob you of your happiness. Once this happens, you are claiming your right and responsibility as an individual to create the best version of yourself, which presents a painful-yet-necessary-step to attaining a healthier outlook on life. Care About People. Reassess your priorities. Sure; we’re all busy with overloaded work schedules and household responsibilities. However, it only takes a minute to care about someone else for a change. Text your out-of-town relative a birthday greeting or volunteer to take your senior neighbor to the grocery store. Let someone know that you’re thinking about them. Small heart-felt gestures are more memorable and meaningful than initially realized. Change Your Workplace Culture. The City of Aventura acknowledges World Mental Health Day as a united municipality, which will continue each year. Encourage your company’s Executive Leadership Team or Human Resources Department to prioritize this observance next year, along with supporting community impact programming available to all residents on a complimentary basis. LOVE, AVENTURA. A column celebrating the heart, soul and culture of our community. < Previous News Next News >

Artist Louiveste La Croix Opens Haitian Heritage Month With “Lakou" South Florida Sun Times Apr 30, 2026 This Haitian Heritage Month (May), The Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department Invites The Community To Experience A Vibrant Celebration Of Haitian Culture, Art, And Movement, Led By The Powerful Exhibition Lakou La Croix At The Ali Cultural Arts Center. Anchoring A Month-Long Series Of Events, This Exhibition Sets The Tone For Reflection, Connection, And Celebration Across Pompano Beach. Running from Friday, May 8th, 2026 through Saturday, June 13th, 2026, Lakou La Croix is a deeply personal solo exhibition by artist Louiveste La Croix. Through a compelling body of mixed media work, La Croix explores themes of childhood memory, displacement, and communal identity rooted in his early life in Saint Louis du Nord, Haiti, and his journey to South Florida. At the heart of the exhibition is the Haitian concept of lakou—a communal living structure that symbolizes shared responsibility, resilience, and belonging. For La Croix, lakou is both lived experience and metaphor: a constellation of homes, memories, and identities formed while moving between relatives during a prolonged immigration process. Each piece becomes a “doorway,” inviting viewers into an evolving narrative of home, culture, spirituality, and self. The celebration begins with the Opening Reception on Friday, May 8th, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Ali Cultural Arts Center. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artist, engage with the work, and immerse themselves in an evening honoring Haitian heritage through visual storytelling and community dialogue. Louiveste La Croix is an artist born in Haiti and currently based in South Florida. His work combines multimedia techniques, gestural figures, and abstract color schemes that captivate viewers. He studied Fine Art at Broward College and has exhibited internationally, including presentations in Brooklyn, Miami’s Wynwood arts district, Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale. La Croix uses his art to convey messages of spiritual awareness, unity and consciousness through natural elements, while paying tribute to historical roots to promote conscious evolution. He believes true artistry comes from taking risks, creating what has never been done before, and expressing oneself authentically. Continuing the celebration, the rhythm of Haiti comes alive with Konpa Pompano! on Saturday, May 9th, 2026 from 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. at The Hive Black Box Theater. This lively dance workshop celebrates Konpa, one of Haiti’s most iconic musical and dance traditions, brought to life by instructor Caleb Exantus. Open to all skill levels, the workshop invites participants to learn foundational steps, connect through movement, and experience the joy and energy of Haitian culture firsthand. Together, Lakou La Croix and Konpa Pompano! form a dynamic cultural pairing—one offering introspective exploration through art, the other an embodied celebration through dance—creating a meaningful and multifaceted tribute to Haitian Heritage Month. Event Details: Lakou La Croix Exhibition Friday, May 8th, 2026 – Saturday, June 13th, 2026 Opening Reception: Friday, May 8th, 2026 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Location: Ali Cultural Arts Center FREE Registration Online: https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/events/lakou-la-croix Konpa Pompano! Dance Workshop Saturday, May 9th, 2026 - 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Location: The Hive Black Box Theater Admission: $10 Purchase tickets online at: https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/events/konpa-in-pompano For more information, visit the Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department website at: https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/ or follow their Social Media channels for updates throughout Haitian Heritage Month. About Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department The mission of the Cultural Affairs Department, operating as Pompano Beach Arts, is to provide cultural programming that includes visual arts, digital media, music, film, theater, dance, and public art for the enjoyment and enrichment of residents and visitors to Pompano Beach, Broward County, and the greater South Florida area. The department programs and manages the City’s premiere cultural arts venues, including the Pompano Beach Cultural Center; Ali Cultural Arts Center including The Hive Black Box Theater; Bailey Contemporary Arts; and the Blanche Ely House Museum. The department also oversees the City’s Public Art Program and the Artists in Residence (AiR) initiative. La Croix uses his art to convey messages of spiritual awareness, unity and consciousness through natural elements. Previous Next

“South Florida’s Kids Got Talent” Competition: Free Family Fun At Tri-Rail's Herzog "Rail Fun Day" With Talented Young Singers From The Region Thu Feb 13 2025 18:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

You'll Be Thankful, Too: When You Sip Or Sup At Thanks To Harrison April 18, 2024 Share Taras Yevtushenko, his partner, Eugene Smyrnov, and their Chef, Ivan Proseniuk, came to Harrison Street from Ukraine with the goal of providing something for everybody. Depending on what time of the day it is, or which door you walk in through, they may just be able to fulfill that goal in their new All-Day Restaurant/Coffee Shop/Cocktail Bar, Thanks To Harrison, which recently opened at 2001 Harrison Street in Downtown Hollywood. "We call it European fusion," said Smyrnov. "Food from Italy, France, Spain... even some Ukrainian! "There will be a breakfast/lunch menu, then a lunch/dinner menu, with more meat and fish. The whole place will be set up with different areas, different menus, different atmospheres," he continued. "The concept of this place is to have something for everyone, give good service and products to everyone, and have everyone be comfortable here at any time of day." Smyrnov came to South Florida about 12 years ago after graduating from university. He worked for several years in Immigration Law, then was selling Real Estate when he took the opportunity to become a partner in a Miami Sushi/Thai restaurant. This grew into Hoshi Sushi, which soon expanded to three locations, one just a few doors away at 1935 Harrison Street. After spending some time on Harrison Street, (and of course falling in love with Downtown Hollywood), he began collaborating with his old friend Yevtushenko, who had recently arrived in Florida, to open Thanks To Harrison. Smyrnov credits Yevtushenko, an International Marketing Executive in Ukraine, with the vision and knowledge to have designed and created the multi-functional space in record time for a speedy opening. "One thing we think Hollywood needs is a real European-style Cafe," said Yevtushenko. "There are some really good coffee spots here, but with Thanks To Harrison, we want the customers to become more involved in the 'culture.' We bring in the best beans, and a consultant to help us buy the best machines and train the staff. It's the same thing with the wines and the cocktails -- history and culture. We have wine experts on call, and world-class mixology masters to design our cocktails." At Thanks To Harrison, Smyrnov says, the focus is on the customer. "We want people to say they're coming here because of the quality of the food, the cocktails, the coffee -- we want to do something that we can be proud of. To us, the first thought is not about how much money we can make but what can we do, what can we give people, to make them happy? We choose to give a good product." A few things that the partners expect to be big hits are, for breakfast, Syrnyky: Cottage Cheese Pancakes with Cherries, Brie Cream and Salted Caramel ($19); for lunch/dinner, Fillet Rossini: topped with Foie Gras, ($62); and Red Snapper: Fillet with Tuna Mousse and Caviar on top ($38). Designer Cocktails include the Port of Havana (White Port, Lime Juice, Vanilla Syrup, Angostura Bitters, Grapefruit Bitters) ($16) and the Redspresso Martini (Pinot Noir, Stout Syrup, Espresso) ($17). The owners of Thanks To Harrison see many opportunities in Hollywood. "In our opinions, Hollywood is ready for some new restaurants and new ideas to complement all the good ones that are already here," believes Yevtushenko. "That should be exciting for all those who live here, and bring people from other areas, too." So, what's with that name? "We were playing with names, and Taras came up with it, so he's the only one who likes it!" laughed Smyrnov. "You know, sometimes you like or don’t like something, and you don’t know why? "But really, we're so thankful to be here," he continued. "The idea obviously is to create a brand, but we mostly want to show how much we respect and appreciate the chance to live and create a business in this country. "Besides, it's cute, and it's something that will catch people's attention, and they will ask “What is this 'Thanks To Harrison' anyway?" "But as soon as they look into the window, they'll know." Thanks To Harrison is open Wednesday to Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and closed on Tuesday. For more information or reservations, please call: (954) 391-8971. Or visit them on the web at: https://thankstoharrison.com/ - Or on Instagram at: @thankstoharrison. Downtown Hollywood offers On-Street Metered Parking for $1.50 Per Hour, as well as Municipal Garage Parking for $1 Per Hour at 251 South 20th Avenue (between Harrison Street and Van Buren Street). In addition, a $10 Flat Rate Public Valet Station, located at 1925 Hollywood Boulevard, is open Thursday to Sunday, from 5:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. For more information about Redevelopment Projects, Businesses, New Investment, and Streetscape Improvements in Hollywood's Downtown and Beach Districts, call the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) at: (954) 924-2980. Or visit: www.HollywoodCRA.org < Previous News Next News >

Finding The Funny In Faith: Yohay Sponder Comes To The Parker South Florida Sun Times Jun 5, 2025 For over two decades, Yohay Sponder has made it his mission to bring joy, insight, and laughter to audiences around the globe. A veteran of stage, screen and Social Media, the Israeli comedian has built a reputation not just as a sharp-witted performer, but as a fearless voice willing to confront identity, religion and self-worth — all with a punchline. Now, after a sold-out tour across Europe, Sponder is bringing his latest show to The Parker on Sunday, June 15th, 2025 for what promises to be a night of laughter, reflection and unfiltered honesty. Initially slated for a single 7:00 p.m. performance, overwhelming demand prompted the addition of a second show at 9:30 p.m. — proof that Sponder's appeal is only growing. Born and raised in Israel, Sponder first stepped onto the comedy scene over 20 years ago. He quickly carved out a niche with his disarming honesty, cultural commentary and a uniquely personal lens on the world. Along the way, he became a fixture on Israeli television and radio, producing and starring in popular programs, while also co-founding the long-running English-language comedy night Funny Monday in Tel Aviv — a rare and beloved space for English-speaking comics in Israel. But it’s not just his home country that Sponder has conquered. From New York to Berlin, London to Los Angeles, he’s taken his distinctive humor international, attracting a growing legion of fans. His Social Media presence — packed with irreverent bits, behind-the-scenes footage and his thoughts on everything from politics to personal growth — has further cemented his global appeal. His show, Self Loving Jew, marked a turning point — not just professionally, but personally. “This show is the most vulnerable I’ve ever been on stage,” Sponder admits. “It’s about how I learned to love myself after years of insecurity, self-doubt, and struggling with my identity as a Jew, as a man and as a comedian.” Sponder walks a tightrope between the sacred and the profane. He unpacks the complexities of faith, cultural expectation and modern masculinity, often using himself as the punchline. In a time when comedy is increasingly under the microscope, Sponder’s unapologetic candor offers both relief and resonance. “This isn’t just about being Jewish,” he explains. “It’s about anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider — anyone who’s ever questioned who they are, or tried to fit into a mold that didn’t quite work. It’s funny, yes, but it’s also real. And maybe that’s why people connect with it.” And connect they do. The European leg of the tour sold out in multiple cities, often driven by word-of-mouth and viral clips from the show. Whether he’s riffing on childhood in a religious household, dating in the age of apps, or the ironic privilege of being a secular Jew who still gets nervous in church, Sponder finds the humor in moments of awkward truth. Offstage, Sponder continues to be a producer and advocate for emerging voices in comedy, especially within the English-speaking scene in Israel. Through Funny Monday, he’s helped spotlight dozens of local and international comics, turning Monday nights in Tel Aviv into a must-see event for locals and tourists alike. “I love building a stage for others,” he says. “Comedy isn’t a competition. It’s a conversation. And when we’re all talking — about race, religion, love, pain — we’re connecting in a way that goes beyond laughs.” Despite his growing fame, Sponder remains grounded. He doesn’t see himself as a celebrity, but as a conduit. “People are going through hard times. Wars, inflation, uncertainty. If I can give them 90 minutes of escape — or better yet, 90 minutes that make them feel seen — then I’ve done my job.” Yohay Sponder performs at The Parker on Sunday, June 15th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Tickets are available now, but going fast. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - And www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222 And in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. The Parker is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. 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. Previous Next

What's In My Bag? An Expert Dermatologist's On-The-Go Essentials BPT Jul 24, 2025 When You're Constantly Juggling Work, School, And Home Responsibilities, It's Easy To Overlook Your Own Well-Being. But Neglecting Self-Care Can Quickly Lead To Burnout, Ultimately Throwing Your Entire Routine Off Track. Dr. Gabriela Soza, Manhattan Board-Certified Dermatologist and mother of two young children, knows firsthand how challenging self-care can be when you're on-the-go. That's why she recommends preparing a bag to carry all your essentials while you're out and about. But, what counts as an essential item? While those exact items may vary from person to person, Soza offers an easy organizational system. "When organizing my must-haves, I tend to break them down into three core categories: health, wellness and skincare to freshen up throughout the day," she said. "Once you've curated your items, use a removable bag insert or pouch to store them. That way, whether you choose a tote bag, backpack or large purse, you can easily transfer your essentials from bag to bag." Read on to learn about Soza's personal "must-have" recommendations. 1. Health Hand sanitizer: As a healthcare professional, Dr. Soza knows firsthand about the importance of hand hygiene. That's why she emphasizes the importance of keeping hand sanitizer to reduce the risk of getting sick or spreading germs. Soza recommends finding sanitizers that also moisturize your skin to prevent your hands from drying out, like Touchland's Hydrating Hand Sanitizer. Water bottle: Hydration is the key to good health, including healthy skin. To prevent dehydration and ensure you have access to water all day, Soza suggests carrying a water bottle in your bag. Pick out a water bottle that has a secure top so you can throw it into your bag without worrying that it will spill over. Fill it up before you leave the house and refill it as needed. 2. Skincare SPF: Whether you have an extensive or bare-bones skincare routine, SPF products should always be on your essentials list. Even if you put on sunscreen before leaving the house, you'll need to reapply throughout the day. Dr. Soza's personal pick is Neocutis Réactive+. This antioxidant serum offers broad spectrum SPF 45 to protect against skin-aging free radicals and harmful sun damage that causes premature skin aging. "For over a decade, I've been continuously impressed by the consistent efficacy of Neocutis products," said Soza. "As a dermatologist who constantly evaluates skincare for both myself and my patients, I appreciate that Neocutis products, such as Réactive+, are research-backed and actively support the skin's collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, all while protecting the skin from free-radicals and harmful sun damage." Eye cream: The delicate skin under your eyes can have trouble retaining moisture. To keep your under-eyes hydrated throughout the day and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, make sure to include an eye cream in your essentials. Choose a hydrating and brightening cream like Neocutis Lumiére® Firm as a midday pick-me-up. Its advanced aging formulation moisturizes delicate skin while also improving firmness, elasticity and texture. Lumiére® Firm is also designed to reduce puffiness, making it the perfect solution for moms on-the-go who need a quick and effective refresh. Facial mist: During a hot day, it's hard to keep your makeup looking good while beating the heat. That's why it's a smart idea to keep a facial mist on hand to freshen up! Soza suggests finding a mist with skincare benefits that can be applied throughout the day like Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray. With just a few spritzes your skin will be soothed, letting you look and feel your best from morning to evening. Lip balm: Lip balm isn't just for hydrating your lips. Of course, its main purpose is to keep your lips moisturized and protected, but it's an incredibly versatile weapon in your on-the-go arsenal. Soza's "do-it-all" lip balm is Aquaphor as it can also tame flyaways, hydrate dry cuticles, and quickly fix a dry skin patch. 3. Wellness Headphones: Physical health items aren't the only essentials you need to pack. Dr. Soza advises keeping a pair of headphones in your bag to give yourself a private escape. It's a great way to center yourself with music, podcasts or audiobooks, even in public places. For example, she listens to music to relax when she's commuting or in between patients. Immunity stick packs: If you haven't used immunity stick packs before, it's time to start! As a new mom, Dr. Soza knows how important it is for moms to bolster their immune system, especially if they have small children. She advises searching for your favorite flavored, pre-portioned stick packs that have vitamin C, electrolytes, zinc and antioxidants to help ward off colds year-round. What's in your bag? No matter how busy your day is, you can give yourself the tools you need to support your health, wellness and skin. Using Soza's essential recommendations, you can ensure you always have what you need to take care of yourself, even during your busiest seasons. Sponsored by Merz Aesthetics. Dr. Gabriela Soza Previous Next