Celebrating the unique flavors of Hispanic Cuisine Thu Sep 30 2021 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Parker Stage This Weekend: Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe and Emo Orchestra With Escape The Fate May 2, 2024 Share In the heart of Fort Lauderdale, nestled within Holiday Park, lies The Parker, an iconic theater known for its rich history of hosting diverse cultural events. This Friday, May 3rd, comedy aficionados and enthusiasts alike will have the chance to witness the comedic genius of Tony Hinchcliffe, courtesy of The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Outback Presents. The show promises an evening of side-splitting laughter as Hinchcliffe, renowned for his wit and humor, takes center stage at 7:00 p.m. Hinchcliffe, a stalwart of the comedy scene, has carved a niche for himself as the host of the wildly popular live podcast, "Kill Tony." Based out of The Comedy Store in Los Angeles, he brings with him a wealth of experience garnered from over a decade of comedic performances. However, it was in 2020 that Hinchcliffe embarked on a new venture, offering enthusiasts an opportunity to delve into the art of "Roasting" through his online course, the "RoastMaster Class." Drawing from his extensive background in writing for Comedy Central Roasts and participating in roast battles, Hinchcliffe's class offers a blend of entertainment and education, showcasing his comedic prowess in a new light. But Hinchcliffe's talents extend beyond the confines of the digital realm. He is a familiar face on the international comedy circuit, frequently touring alongside the likes of Joe Rogan. With appearances on the Joe Rogan Experience (JRE), the world's most popular podcast, Hinchcliffe has garnered a dedicated following drawn to his quick wit and unapologetic humor. Whether gracing the stage of renowned clubs in LA or headlining theaters across America, Australia, and Europe, Hinchcliffe's comedic prowess knows no bounds. This event will be a phone-free experience, immersing themselves fully in the moment without the distractions of modern technology. Cellphones, smart watches, and recording devices will be stowed away, allowing audiences to connect intimately with Hinchcliffe's comedic stylings without interruption. As the weekend unfolds, The Parker will continue to captivate audiences with another spellbinding performance on Saturday, May 4th. Emo Orchestra featuring Escape The Fate will grace the stage at 8:00 p.m., offering a one-of-a-kind live experience that combines the nostalgia of emo classics with the grandeur of orchestral arrangements. Escape The Fate, known for their emotive lyrics and anthemic melodies, will lead audiences on a journey through beloved emo hits of yesteryears. From the haunting melodies of Evanescence to the anthemic choruses of My Chemical Romance and Good Charlotte, fans will be treated to a symphonic rendition of their favorite songs. Paired with a world-class orchestra, this performance promises to reignite the passion and emotion synonymous with the emo genre, captivating audiences with its unique blend of rock and orchestral elements. Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - And at: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222; and in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. 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 performance season at The Parker is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. The Parker The Parker is Fort Lauderdale’s iconic, heritage theater presenting concerts, comedy, dance, family fare and more. Beautifully renovated in 2021, The Parker offers audiences enhanced entertainment and hospitality experiences. The neo-classical Lillian S. Wells Hall features outstanding acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, wide rows and continental seating. The grand S. Donald Sussman Lobby, Bernie Peck’s Bar, the intimate Haller Club, and the private members’ lounge, The Place To Be, provide ample opportunities for audiences to enjoy culture, cocktails and conversation with every visit to the theater. For more information, visit: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com < Previous News Next News >

City of Hallandale Beach COVID Closure January 13, 2022 Share Due to the effects of COVID-19 on City staffing, Hallandale Beach City Hall and the Police Lobby will be closed to the public until further notice. City staff anticipate the closure for at least two weeks. Residents may continue to conduct business with the City electronically. For Utility Billing and General Billing payments, payments may be made online at: www.coHB.org/PayMyBill over the phone at 1-866-819-0126, by mail, or utilizing the white drop boxes located at the City Hall breezeway. For Utility Billing Customer Service, please call (954) 457-1360 or email FinanceUtilities@coHB.org please note that late fees and water shut-offs are temporarily suspended. For general billing inquiries, please call (954) 457-1369 or email AccountsReceivable@coHB.org For permitting inquiries, please use the HBePermitting online portal at www.coHB.org/HBePermitting or email HBePermitting@coHB.org For all other Community Enhancement and Sustainable Development Department related issues including Code, Business Tax Receipts, and Planning and Zoning, please call (954) 457-1489. For information about the recently enforced parking requirements / permits and information, please visit www.coHB.org/Parking New Parking Rates went into effect November 1, 2021, full enforcement now in effect. New parking signs have been installed throughout the City indicating paid parking locations. All street parking payments are made through the PayByPhone service by App, Phone (888) 680-7275, or Online. All residents are invited to apply online for our Resident Parking Program. This program is designed to qualify residents for Discounted Hourly Parking and to qualify those residents that live in a neighborhood parking zone to purchase Monthly Parking Zone Pass(es). Apply today - applications take 4-5 business days to process, www.coHB.org/Parking To assist residents while the Hallandale Beach City Hall is closed many services can be conducted online, visit https://hallandalebeachfl.gov/1453/Pay-My-Bill or for more online services available to you visit https://hallandalebeachfl.gov You can also sign up for biweekly updates and the Hallandale Happenings Newsletter at https://hallandalebeachfl.gov/1197/Subscribe-To-Updates < Previous News Next News >

Doctor My Eyes – A Tribute To Jackson Browne - A Soulful Celebration of an Icon Comes to Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Aventura Digest Sep 5, 2025 There Are Tribute Bands, And Then There Are Experiences — Those Rare Musical Moments Where The Line Between Homage And Heartfelt Embodiment Blurs Into Something Utterly Unforgettable. That’s Exactly What You Can Expect When Doctor My Eyes – A Tribute To Jackson Browne Takes The Stage At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center On Friday, October 10th, 2025, At 8:00 p.m. This Isn’t Just A Concert — It’s A Time Machine To The Golden Era Of American Singer - Songwriters, Where Heart Met Harmony, And Lyrics Told Stories That Felt Like Your Own. If you’ve ever closed your eyes and let Jackson Browne’s music wash over you - the poetic melancholy of "Late for the Sky," the raw energy of "Running on Empty," or the reflective brilliance of "The Pretender" - then you’ll want to witness what fans across the country are calling the most authentic tribute to the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer on the road today. More Than a Tribute—An Emotional Journey At the heart of this incredible show is Hayden Greyson, a stunning performer whose likeness to Jackson Browne in his ‘70s prime is uncanny—but it’s the voice that truly stuns. Close your eyes, and you’ll swear you’re hearing Browne himself. From the piercing honesty of "Doctor My Eyes" to the wistful glow of "Tender is the Night," Hayden doesn't just perform the songs—he lives them, channeling their emotional depth and nuance with breathtaking accuracy. Having graced the stages of iconic venues like the Count Basie Theatre and B.B. King’s Blues Club, Hayden brings the same impassioned delivery to every show. Florida audiences have already embraced his performances with sold-out enthusiasm, and Aventura is next in line to be captivated. A Band of Heavy Hitters What makes Doctor My Eyes so special isn’t just Hayden’s lead—it's the all-star ensemble that surrounds him. Each musician brings decades of experience, soul, and authenticity to the stage: Meredith Corsillo, a powerhouse New York-based session singer, adds percussion and background vocals reminiscent of Rosemary Butler and Bonnie Raitt. Her harmonies elevate every chorus and bring that essential Jackson Browne richness to the forefront. Cisco Colet brings emotional depth and texture with every note on acoustic, electric, and slide guitar. A veteran of London’s music scene, Cisco taps into the spirit of Browne’s longtime collaborator David Lindley, re-creating those unforgettable lap steel moments with reverent finesse. Tommy Tennies, with a career rooted in classic rock and R&B, fills the air with lush keyboard textures and vintage B3 organ swells. With 15 years on the Las Vegas Strip and multiple bands under his belt, Tommy adds a layer of musical authenticity that defines the show’s sonic backbone. On bass, Rudy Pagliuca is more than a rhythm man - he’s a Latin GRAMMY Award-winning producer whose work with the Latin rock band Malanga has earned international acclaim. His dynamic, melodic playing breathes fresh life into each track, honoring the original while adding new color. Rounding out the rhythm section is Jay Wood, a versatile drummer with over four decades of live performance experience. Having opened for legends like The Charlie Daniels Band and Bret Michaels, Jay's drumming is both grounded and expressive, keeping the engine of this musical machine running at full tilt. A setlist that reads like a greatest hits album, expect all the classics and fan favorites: "Doctor My Eyes," "The Pretender," "Running on Empty," "Here Come Those Tears Again," "Take It Easy," "Somebody’s Baby," "That Girl Could Sing," "Stay," "Tender is the Night," "Late for the Sky," "Fountain of Sorrow" and many more. (Setlist may vary.) Each song is presented with a deep reverence for the source material and a performance quality that elevates it into something larger than nostalgia - it becomes a living, breathing celebration of Jackson Browne’s legacy. More Than Music - A Shared Experience Whether you're a lifelong fan who wore out your vinyl copy of The Pretender, or someone discovering Jackson Browne's magic for the first time, Doctor My Eyes offers an experience that connects. It’s music for the soul, performed by artists who genuinely get it —the poetry, the emotion, the craftsmanship. And let’s not forget: this isn’t just a concert, it’s a gathering. Fans across generations will come together at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center to sing, sway, and share in the beauty of timeless music. Don't Miss It: Doctor My Eyes – A Tribute to Jackson Browne Friday, October 10th, 2025 - 8:00 p.m. Aventura Arts & Cultural Center 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180 1 (877) 311-7469 Tickets: $57.35 – $62.86 For more Information, visit: www.DMEtribute.com Previous Next

Spritz Into Spring: The Ultimate Guide To Happy Hours In SoFlo April 18, 2024 Share Happy Hour originated in the early 20th century in the U.S. Sailors in the Navy used the term to describe a period of entertainment, often involving boxing matches and other leisure activities. With time, this concept was evicted in after-work social gatherings, especially during the Prohibition era when people would meet in speakeasies to enjoy illicit drinks. A lot of time has passed since then and Happy Hour has become a more elevated experience. Whether it's the chic martini bar frequented on Fridays, the sports bar offering pitchers of beer at bargain prices, or the waterfront dive bars erasing the day's woes, the choices are plentiful all over the U.S. South Florida has evolved significantly over that time as well, from its reputation solely as a Spring Break destination for cheap shots among college students. Its burgeoning culinary and beverage landscape now garners widespread acclaim, attracting a diverse clientele. These 10 happy hour locales serve as a testament to the city's ability to deliver unparalleled enjoyment and cater to a spectrum of tastes. Amelia’s 1931 Raise a glass at Amelia's 1931 for "The Bee's Knees" Happy Hour extravaganza! Behind an unexpected door lies a fine dining culinary journey and cocktail experience curated by Chef Eileen Andrade, highlighting classic Latin flavors mixed with Asian influence and the art of craft cocktails. From Tuesday through Friday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., guests can enjoy this one of a kind experience along with irresistible offers including $7 Local Draft Beers, $8 Select Boutique Wines, and meticulously crafted well Spirit Cocktails for just $10. Also, Happy Hour offerings continue with Amelia's After Hours – every Friday and Saturday from 11:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. inviting guests for a journey into the past. With fantastic throwback music and an exclusive late-night Happy Hour food and drink menu, it’s not to be missed. But that's not all – gaining access is a mystery unto itself, as a secret passcode is the key to entry. Stay in the loop by checking out Amelia's 1931 Instagram story after 3:00 p.m. on the Friday or Saturday you plan on attending: Follow: @amelias1931 and unveil the secrets of the night! Amelia’s 1931 is located at 13601 Southwest 26th Street, Miami, Florida 33175. Dinner is served Wednesday through Sunday, 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Special note regarding Amelia’s 1931 Dress code: No hats, flip flops or shorts. Smart casual please. Telephone: (305) 554-4949; www.amelias1931.com Brasserie Laurel Brasserie Laurel is a contemporary brasserie imbued with the spirit of a classic French cookery as well as Chef/Owner Michael Beltran’s extant culinary considerations and deft understanding of classic and contemporary techniques. Here, guests will discover an upscale take on a neighborhood French boîte, a place as welcoming for raw bar and a glorious glass of Wine or a sophisticated supper. Located downtown at the Miami Worldcenter, Brasserie Laurel is the perfect spot for Happy Hour, available Monday to Sunday from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Guests can enjoy a select menu of savory appetizers (Range $12 – $25) such as a Half-Dozen Oysters, Beef Tartine, French Onion Soup, Terrine Tea Sandwich, Crudités and a Cheese Plate, as well as Caviar with pan frit, chives and crème fraîche at market price. Also on offer, five signature cocktails with flavor profiles carefully calibrated to stand alone at Happy Hour or enjoyed with food for $10 each including the Martini, Old Fashioned, Gimlet, Daiquiri and Margarita; $10 Wines-by-the-glass, and $8 Beer. The complete Happy Hour menu can be viewed – HERE: https://brasserielaurel.com/menus/. Brasserie Laurel is located at 698 Northeast 1st Avenue, Suite#: G170, Miami, Florida 33132, located in the Miami Worldcenter at the base of Miami Worldcenter’s Caoba Residential Tower along the development’s 7th Street pedestrian promenade. Telephone: (305) 330-9048; www.brasserielaurel.com - Follow on Instagram: @LaurelMiami Chug’s Diner Located in the heart of Coconut Grove, Chug’s Diner is Chef/Restaurateur Michael Beltran’s take on an American diner with a Cuban spin, a tribute to both classic American cookery and his rich Cuban heritage. Unlike most diners, Chug’s features a full bar with a specially curated Cocktail list. Happy Hour is available Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to close and Friday – Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to close and features $9 House Cocktails, select $9 Wines-by-the-glass and $5 Monopolio Beers. Plus, with any food purchase between 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., diners can also enjoy $.99 Martinis. Chug’s Diner is located at 3444 Main Highway, Suite#: 21, Coconut Grove, Florida 33133. For more information, visit: www.chugsdiner.com - Telephone: (786) 353-2940. Follow on Instagram: @ChugsDiner El Vecino Owned/operated and created by Chef Michael Beltran, El Vecino has become a go-to spot for both cigar lovers and Cocktail connoisseurs. Its new Happy Hour, available daily from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., will undoubtedly appeal to both, plus sports-lovers, who have also adopted El Vecino as a sophisticated spot to enjoy drinks, a smoke and a game, shown on one of El Vecino’s big screen TVs. First the drink specials, ten of them in total – five Cocktails, three Wines and two Beers by the glass. Priced at $12 each, Signature Cocktails on offer include the Court Royale – Gin, Lillet, Apple Brandy and lemon; Tattletale – Scotch, honey, Angostura Bitters and orange; and Bermuda Sour – Blackstrap Rum, orange and egg white. Wines and Beers by-the-glass ($6 – $14) are also on offer. Cigar enthusiasts and neophytes alike will enjoy the Happy Hour menu’s cigar pairing recommendations, curated by El Vecino’s Cigar Program Director Nicolás Jiménez. Also available during Happy Hour, oysters on the half shell (half dozen and dozen) and a charcuterie board complements of El Vecino’s savory sister restaurant, Brasserie Laurel. El Vecino is located at 698 Northeast 1st Avenue, Suite#: G-172, Miami, Florida 33132, located at the base of Miami Worldcenter’s Caoba Residential Tower along the development’s 7th Street pedestrian promenade. For more information, visit: www.elvecinomiami.com and follow on Instagram @ElVecinoMiami. Eva & The Oyster Bar Eva, the latest concept by Ariete Hospitality Group (AHG), opened October 2023 at CocoWalk, just steps from AHG’s other Coconut Grove concepts. Eva offers a delicious taste of the Mediterranean through the unique culinary prism of Chef/Restaurateur Michael Beltran and Corporate Chef Ashley Moncada, as well as an exquisite Wine list and bar program. Monday to Friday from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Eva offers a top-notch Happy Hour featuring $10 Wines by-the-glass and 50% off select bottles of Wine, $6 Beers, and $12 select signature Cocktails including the Verikoko, Ambrosia, Golden Zest and Scintilla. Also available during Happy Hour, a select food menu ($8 – $22) offering several dips and salads, Fried Calamari, Charcuterie, Skewers and a Lamb Burger. The full Happy Hour menu can be viewed – HERE: www.evacoconutgrove.com . Nestled within Eva’s space is The Oyster Bar which opened in September 2023 as an intimate experience, specializing in raw bar classics, delectable small plates, and thoughtfully curated libations to pair perfectly with the bounty of the sea. Guests can enjoy Happy Hour specials Monday to Friday from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., including $9 Well Spirits, $9 Wine by-the-glass, $6 Beers and Oysters for $1.50 each. Eva and The Oyster Bar are located at 3015 Grand Avenue, Suite#: 120, Coconut Grove, Florida 33133 at CocoWalk in the heart of Coconut Grove. For more information on Eva and The Oyster Bar, visit: www.evacoconutgrove.com - Follow on Instagram: @EvaCoconutGrove | @TheOysterBarMiami Toro Toro Toro Toro, Chef/Restaurateur Richard Sandoval’s Pan-Latin Steakhouse at the InterContinental Miami Hotel, features a stellar lineup of Cocktails and offers Happy Hour Tuesday to Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. During Happy Hour, guests can enjoy $5 Beers, $6 select Wines by the glass and $8 select Cocktails. Advance reservations are encouraged and can be made on OpenTable - HERE: www.torotoromiami.com . Toro Toro is located at 100 Chopin Plaza, Miami, Florida 33131 inside the InterContinental in Downtown Miami. Telephone (305) 372-4710; www.torotoromiami.com The Gibson Room Local hotspot The Gibson Room by Chef/Restaurateur Michael Beltran is a relaxed, neighborhood tavern with a robust live music schedule, vinyl night, elevated tavern fare and an upgraded Cocktail program. The ideal destination to vibe, dine and imbibe, the restaurant offers a top-notch Happy Hour daily from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. featuring $10 Wines-by-the-glass, $2 off Draft Beers, $10 Well Spirits, and $10 House Cocktails including the House Gibson, Pimms Cup, Cloak & Dagger, Espresso Martini, Dark & Hoppy, Buena Vista and Improved Beer Cocktail. To eat, guests can enjoy Grilled Oysters for $1.50 each and $8 snacks such as Tostones, Charcuterie and the Gibson Burger. The full Happy Hour menu can be viewed – HERE: www.thegibsonroommiami.com . The Gibson Room is located at 2224 Southwest 22nd Street, Miami, Florida 33145. For more information, visit: www.thegibsonroommiami.com - Telephone: (305) 570-4311. Follow on Instagram: @TheGibsonMiami The Taurus Located in one of Miami’s most definitive neighborhoods, The Taurus by Chef/Restaurateur Michael Beltran serves as one of Coconut Grove’s longest-standing locales; the perfect dining and drinking den for Happy Hour festivities as it has been serving South Floridians for nearly a century. Happy Hour is offered daily from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. and features several specials including 2-for-1 House Liquors, $13 Boiler Makers and 2-for-1 Draft Beers, as well as a Taurus “Happy Meal” for $15 which includes a Scrap Burger with fries and a 12 oz. Monopolio Beer. The Happy Hour menu can be viewed – HERE: www.thetauruscoconutgrove.com . The Taurus is located at 3540 Main Highway, Suite#: C103, Coconut Grove, Florida 33133. Indoor and patio seating is available. For more information, visit: www.thetauruscoconutgrove.com - Telephone: (305) 529-6523. Follow on Instagram: @TheTaurusCoconutGrove The ScapeGoat Nestled in Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood, The ScapeGoat is an intimate bar known for its classic cocktails, inventive contemporary libations, and carefully curated selection of Wine, Beer and Spirits. An Ariete Hospitality Group (AHG) concept, this edgy drinking den is the perfect destination for any occasion. Guests can enjoy Happy Hour Specials daily from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., and 1:00 a.m. – 3:00 a.m. including $10 select rotating Cocktails. The ScapeGoat is located at 100 Collins Avenue, Suite#: CU4, Miami Beach, Florida 33139. Telephone: (786) 275-6488; www.scapegoatsobe.com - Follow on Instagram: @ScapeGoatMiami The timeless tradition of Happy Hour is much more than just a time of discounted drinks. It is a moment to let go of the day's worries, connect with friends and colleagues, and relish life's simple pleasures. So, let's raise our glasses once more, not only to the delight of Happy Hour in South Florida but to the promise of countless more moments filled with shared laughter, clinking glasses, and a resounding "Cheers to Happiness!" < Previous News Next News >

Jet Set Your Life: The Art Of Budget Friendly Travel Thu May 11 2023 16:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

U.S. Medicare Info Helping Seniors With Medicare Programs Throughout Florida PROFILES By David L. Snelling April 24, 2022 Share For almost five years, U.S. Medicare Info has been helping senior’s in South Florida get coverage for health and drug services not covered by Original Medicare from the government. US Medicare Info. is lead by Steven Hulnick, Owner of Hulnick Insurance Inc. Hulnick is a contracted agent for many of the insurance companies that have expanded coverage to seniors on Medicare to close the gap including, United Health Care the AARP Program, Medica, Preferred Care Partners, Aetna, Humana, Well Care and Silver Script. Hulnick, 48, said the problem stems from the government covering 80 percent of Medicare patients' costs and doesn't offer a drug plan. "As a broker, I work with private insurance companies that offer Medicare insurance supplement programs to cover the balance of what the government doesn't provide," he said. "People call me very confused because of the process. They reach out for assistance and I guide them in the right direction. I consider myself an advocate for seniors." Licensed to do business in Florida, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Arizona and soon to be in Michigan. Hulnick said he's ranked in the top two percent of selling agents in the U.S. Hulnick, a native of New York, said his agents working for him are also licensed to do business in those states. To assist seniors, Hulnick said his team first helps clients enrolled in the government's Medicare plan and then can guide them to sign up for the Medicare Supplement programs with private insurance companies to round out coverage and make them complete. He said he doesn't charge seniors for helping them. "No salary, just a fee paid directly from the insurance company," he said. Previously, Hulnick has over 20 years of insurance experience, selling Health, Life, Property and Casualty insurances. Hulnick spends his time concentrating on Medicare because he enjoys being a resource to the community while building a successful business. "I tell my clients, I am lucky to be able to build a business while helping people," he said. Hulnick said trust with his clients has become the source of their relationship which helps attract and retain customers. He said his clients can always depend on him and rely on his expertise and trusting advice. "People call me because they are concerned and scared of the process," he said. "I come in with a helping hand and nurture them through the process. He added: "By doing right by my clients, I receive referrals from neighbors and family members throughout the country. They call me because of the trust that I build." Hulnick said he has transitioned to working remotely due to COVID which hasn't slowed his business down. He said now he communicates through conference calls, Zoom and emails to get clients signed up through electronic email applications and voice recorded technologies. Selling insurance wasn't Hulnick's first career. A graduate of Johnson Wales University's main campus in Providence, Rhode Island, Hulnick worked in the advertising industry for Grey Advertising in New York. He said his clients included Six Flags Theme Park, Seagram, Captain Morgan and Crown Royal. Hulnick said he met his wife, Elissa Pearl Hulnick, while working in New York and they moved to Florida, where she graduated from the University of Miami School of Law and he earned his MBA at Nova Southeastern University. For more assistance with U.S. Medicare Info contact Steven Hulnick at 561-676-4629, via email info@USMedicareInfo.com or find our more details online at www.usmedicareinfo.com < Previous News Next News >

Miami Teen Volunteers: Changing The Lives Of Special Needs Kids Simply By Being Their Friends January 19, 2023 Share Dozens of Miami teenagers are helping change the lives of special needs children by simply spending time with them. While special needs children may have the best doctors and therapists, they don’t necessarily have friends and safe places they can go for social interaction. The Friendship Circle of Miami offers a solution to these issues. The Friendship Circle of Miami is a nonprofit dedicated to offering friendship and acceptance to individuals with special needs, and providing respite to their families. The nonprofit pairs teen and young adult volunteers with kids, teens, and adults with special needs to bond over shared experiences such as art, band, swimming, equestrian and social circles. Volunteers come from a variety of high schools in the Miami-Dade School District. Samantha Elkins, Sydney Hochstadt, and Jordan McKean are all seniors at Miami Palmetto Senior High School. They have each been volunteers at the Friendship Circle for three years participating in the Friendship Circle Band, and Tween and Teen Scene. “The kids at Friendship Circle are very kind, smart, and unique in many ways. Getting the privilege to interact and form relationships with them is something that I don't take for granted. Carrying friendships outside of the designated volunteering hours to text or call and reuniting each week is definitely rewarding. I also like seeing the kids become more confident in themselves and see that they can make friends and they are capable,” says Elkins. “Through Friendship Circle, I form valuable friendships with people who sadly do not often experience such,” adds Hochstadt. “The most rewarding aspect of my volunteerism with Friendship Circle is seeing the happiness on my friends' faces upon first seeing me at every event. It is something I would not trade for the world.” McKean says, “Seeing their faces light up when they play an instrument or sing a song is an amazing feeling. The most rewarding part of this entire experience has been the ongoing connections I've made with my friends.” About Friendship Circle The Friendship Circle model involves carefully matching teen volunteers one-to-one with children who have special needs, providing the mentoring and friendship that these children seek. Our model promotes inclusion and builds social and recreational skills among children, teens and young adults with special needs, regardless of their level of ability. Beginning with a pilot program and handful of children in 2004, they have served hundreds of children with special needs and empowered thousands of teenagers to become community leaders, advocates, and role-models. The facility they currently operate their 21 programs out of has become insufficient to manage their tremendous growth and lacks the necessary space to introduce new, innovative services they aspire to offer and that families seek. Under the leadership and direction of their Board of Directors, they are building a state-of-the-art campus. The new Friendship Campus will offer 20,000 square feet of space which will serve as an activity center, social meeting place and hub for their network of families, individuals with special needs, volunteers, professional staff, and supporters. The new campus will comprise two main buildings which will include beautiful and engaging activity rooms, lounges, classrooms, and a number of custom rooms. More space will allow them to grow their programs and add specially designed rooms for their participants, which will allow them to add new, innovative programs. The most powerful force in society is a child with a dream coupled with the knowledge, nurturing and means to achieve that dream. The Friendship Campus is a lifelong dream for children with special needs and their families. They hope you will help them make this dream a reality by joining them to meet their $7.5 million goal to develop a beautiful state-of-the-art home for children, for now, and for the future. For more information, visit: www.friendshipcirclemiami.org A Night of Hollywood Glam Friendship Circle of Miami will put on its 4th annual Heart and Soul Gala on Thursday, February 2nd at the Historic Alfred I. duPont Building. The event will treat guests to “A Night of Hollywood Glam” featuring a delectable dinner, live music, entertainers, experiences and much more. The event will also give community leaders and supporters throughout Miami-Dade County the opportunity to unite and celebrate the power of friendship. The Friendship Circle of Miami: www.friendshipcirclemiami.org is a volunteer-driven nonprofit dedicated to offering friendship and acceptance to individuals with special needs, providing respite to their families, and empowering teenagers to make a difference through volunteerism. The nonprofit pairs teen and young adult volunteers with kids, teens, and adults with special needs to bond over shared experiences such as art, band, swimming, equestrian and social circles. Money raised at the gala will go toward supporting the many programs the Friendship Circle of Miami offers. The nonprofit also recently began development on a 20,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art community center which will serve as an activity center, social meeting place, and hub for its network of families, individuals with special needs, volunteers and supporters. For more information on the Heart and Soul Gala, visit: www.fcheartandsoulgala.org < Previous News Next News >

68th Annual Candy Cane Parade On Hollywood Beach Thu Dec 05 2024 17:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

For 2022 Everyone Should Be Resolved To Make Changes By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper December 30, 2021 Share “For 2022 everyone should be resolved to go and get a vaccine. You should stand up and talk about this issue. I have resolved that I will not be silent.” Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper This weekend marks 2022! Like many of you I was hoping not to be dealing with Covid. It seems it will still be around. I am calling out those that have still refused to get a vaccine. Sadly, recently an Emergency Operations Center call with all the mayors was held due to the current situation that shows infection rates up to 20% plus. Over 80 percent of those presenting to the hospital are due to individuals that still have not gotten a vaccine. I keep thinking to myself how could people be so challenged, so afraid, as to not simply go and get a simple vaccine shot? For over two centuries we have had vaccines. Children cannot attend school without having received vaccines that prevent life threatening diseases and more importantly the spread of diseases like Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Chickenpox, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping Cough, Influenza Type B, Hepatitis A and B and even now a shot to prevent certain cancers. Hospital workers for years have been required to have flu vaccines to go to work. But now even with a proven safe vaccine many are not getting the vaccine. Could you imagine having an elder parent in a nursing home knowing someone could give them Covid. It is unconceivable. My biggest complaint is this freedom argument. My father like many young men went to fight for freedom overseas in planes, on land and at sea. They made sacrifices not seeing their loved ones for years living day to day not knowing if it would be their last. Sadly, many died as heroes for the true freedom we have. Now that’s courage. That’s strength. That’s the real machismo we need now in this country. We have individuals that aren’t even patriotic enough to take a shot for our country. The vaccine is safe. While you may be young and healthy it still does not mean you cannot die from the complications of Covid. More importantly you are hurting those at high risk. I challenge these individuals. You are not patriots at all. For 2022 everyone should be resolved to go and get a vaccine. You should stand up and talk about this issue. I have resolved that I will not be silent. I will call those out that are hurting others by not helping to stop the spread of Covid, stifling our economy and hiding under the guise of freedom. Have we all really become a country of selfish cowards? Also is 2022 I want to congratulate our Team Hallandale Beach. Dr. Jeremy Earle under the leadership of a civil collegial commission has put together a game plan that will not only take us thru 2022 but has laid the groundwork for another 4 years. He has made significant hires across all departments who have proven to be hardworking, innovative, and committed to excellence. We certainly have many challenges to address in the coming year, but I am confident with us all remaining focused on the goal of financial stability and improvement of service within all areas of the city, we will continue to see results. As of January 2, all parking regulations will be fully enforced. The new parking program has been in effect but not fully enforced yet. With the increase in our traditional enforcement, we have seen revenues that will be able to pay for the parking program and create additional funds to pay for much needed vehicle replacements that were put off for years. Our new Director of Code Enforcement has geared up and is finally addressing cases that have been left idle for years. This will result in hopefully a much cleaner safer city. Property owners that have not been taking care of their liens have been put on notice. They need to address property deficiencies. Once addressed they can ask for fine mitigation. I must note there is not a free ride for absentee landlords or owners that have down work without permits. Owners will have to pay at least a portion by law for their neglect. Code enforcement takes staff time and city resources. Another great change has been taking place in our Police Department. Under the leadership of Acting Chief Michel many of our safety programs are being implemented and expanded. They have activated the ShotSpotter gunshot detection system. ShotSpotter is a gunshot detection service which alerts officers to gunshots within an expanded coverage area. The system alerts officers on their laptops and/or cellphones as well as over police radio through the BSO dispatch. ShotSpotter detects and accurately locates within 25 meters of the actual gunshot location 90% of unsuppressed, outdoor gunshots and alerts police in less than 60 seconds. The coverage area is approximately 2.18 miles and includes the I-95 to Federal Highway and from Pembroke Road to County line. This technology will increase our response time during life threatening incidents. I will cover our Police Department changes as well as discuss the critical support of our department in my first article of the new year. Please have a safe and blessed 2022! 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 E-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit my Facebook Page: MayorJoyCooper. Like It! Friend It! Share It! < Previous News Next News >

Can You Take It With You? Almost 3 in 4 Floridians Want Their Social Media Posts Buried With Them November 19, 2021 Share An Oxford study discovered that Facebook could have 4.9 billion deceased user accounts by the year 2100 Have you ever wondered what will become of your social media footprint after your death? Many internet users have had their social media accounts for a number of years, from the days of their very first teenage MySpace and Tumblr profiles. We were warned of the permanence of having an online presence; therefore, if these accounts haven’t been deactivated and deleted, chances are there are still traces of them that exist online. And on a larger timescale, for example, 100 years from now, the probability of your current social media accounts still existing on the internet is high. In fact, an Oxford study discovered that Facebook could have 4.9 billion deceased user accounts by the year 2100 if it continues growing at its current rate. Some platforms, like Facebook, allow the user to appoint a legacy contact, who will have certain rights to the account when the user dies. Google also allows users to plan their post-mortem account management by sharing certain data with a trusted contact via the Inactive Account Manager. • 1 in 10 social media users worry about previous posts that would now be considered contentious. • 40% say they never post about politics for fear of bring ostracized. Redact.dev, a unique software that allows you to scan your social media history and automatically remove any contentious posts, conducted a survey of 3,360 social media users across the U.S. The survey discovered that Floridians overwhelmingly (71%) want their entire social media posts erased in the event of their death. Perhaps this is because more than 1 in 10 (13%) users are concerned about existing social media content posted in the past, that might now be considered contentious. As our knowledge and worldview expands, oftentimes our thoughts and opinions evolve alongside. This may explain why almost half (46%) of respondents say they’ve gone back through their social media history and found their old posts, which are totally different to the opinions they currently hold today. This might also be why more than a quarter (27%) say they’ve set their social media accounts to ‘private’ when job hunting. Lockdown presented many with an opportunity to complete tasks that may have been of lower priority before the pandemic, but still needed to be done sometime. More than a third (38%) of social media users say they used their spare time during the course of the pandemic to clear their accounts of any embarrassing posts. Lastly, nearly half (40%) of social media users say they avoid posting about their political affiliation on social media for fear of being ostracized. ‘If you’re concerned about your social media history bearing a negative effect on your future, such as job prospects or your post-mortem legacy, it could be worthwhile for your own peace of mind to go through your accounts and start afresh,’ says a spokesperson from Redact.dev. ‘This will allow you to alleviate stress about any content you may have posted in the past, which differs from your current thoughts and opinions.’ Study Results: https://redact.dev/blog/digital-death-cancel-culture < Previous News Next News >

An Evening Of The Impossible: A Great Way to Introduce The Whole Family to Live Theater March 10, 2023 Share The City of Aventura Presents an evening of the impossible with Mike Super Magic & Illusion: Third Time’s a Charm! on Saturday, March 18th, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. This bigger and better show features some all new, never before seen magic, along with a few new twists on some old favorites. Super’s imaginary friend Desmond is again summoned and this time causes a table to float out over the audiences' heads and around the audience. Audiences should be careful what they text as Super impossibly predicts information on their cellphones. Except for one bewildered spectator, Super turns the entire audience into magicians by letting them in on the secret of having the power to read minds. Called “truly unbelievable” by Ellen DeGeneres, Super has been seen on her show as well as America's Got Talent, NBC's Phenomenon and Penn & Teller's Fool Us. A great way to introduce the whole family to live theater, his show can be described as a great Broadway play meets a rock concert, meets the hilarity of a headline comedian, immersed in original, eye popping visual deception. Mike began his magic at age six. He used to do shows in his backyard every week and he'd wear his black Dracula Cape from Halloween while performing. He says "It was pretty embarrassing. I charged a nickel per person at those performances." Today, Mike has amazed Howie Mandel, Kim Kardashian, Louie Anderson, Howard Stern, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Ariana Grande, Tina Fey, Heidi Klum, Nick Cannon, Penn & Teller, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Criss Angel, Raven-Symone, Train, Kenny Chesney and Ellen DeGeneres to name but a few! Mike's ever-growing popularity has garnered him many prestigious awards and honors, including being the only magician in history to win a LIVE magic competition on primetime US network television. In addition, his other accomplishments include being named Entertainer of the Year, Best Performing Artist of the Year, Best Novelty Performer of the Year AND he was voted America's Favorite Mystifier on NBC's hit TV Show PHENOMENON. He has pioneered a new form of magic with his own inimitable, down-to-earth style and personality. Mike has brought the art of magic back to the people. He transcends the "trick" and connects personally with his audience on a level they can relate to. Whether it's through television, stage or simply one-on-one, Mike Super's personality and humor reaches out and enchants the public. His appeal to both young and old has made him one of the most sought after mystifiers in the world! Despite all of this, Mike humbly insists, it is the loyalty of his fan base that has been most rewarding. His legions of fans call themselves "THE SUPERFREAKS" and they number in the millions. Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. Tickets are $42-$47 with $25 student tickets for 18 and under and $5 lap tickets for children 12 months and younger. Parking Free parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center 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. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. < Previous News Next News >