Have You Downloaded The App Yet? My Aventura Is The Citizen Engagement App Tue Aug 15 2023 16:16:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

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

Honoring Cuban Icons - Aventura Showcases Legacy Of Celia Cruz And Havana’s Musical Spirit South Florida Sun Times Sep 3, 2025 The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is kicking off the start of the fall season with two high-energy performances that pay tribute to Cuban music and culture. Presented by the City of Aventura, “Havana Night with Salsabor All Stars” and “CELIA CRUZ 100: Migguel Anggelo's ICONS” promises unforgettable nights of rhythm, heritage and powerful storytelling through music. Havana Night with Salsabor All Stars, presented by the City of Aventura, performs on Saturday, September 13 at 8 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. It will be an electrifying night of live Cuban music as Salsabor All Stars ignite the stage with the spirit of Havana. Founded in 2020 by Juan Padron and Millie Molina this dynamic 15-piece South Florida based ensemble delivers an unforgettable tribute to Cuba's rich and vibrant musical heritage. Also recognized as, “El Tren Musical” this incredible ensemble is recognized for its extensive career and professionalism. The audience will be swept away by the infectious rhythms of salsa, son Cubano, mambo and more as 12 talented musicians and three powerhouse vocalists bring the golden era of Latin music to life. Havana Night is an exhilarating celebration of Cuban passion, culture and rhythm. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center then kicks off its 15th Anniversary Season with a dazzling tribute to one of the most iconic voices in music history -- the incomparable CELIA CRUZ- in the year and month of her 100th 'celestial' birthday. Brooklyn- and Miami-based interdisciplinary artist Migguel Anggelo will ignite the stage with CELIA CRUZ 100: ICONS, a celebration of the “Queen of Salsa” whose music and spirit continue to inspire generations. Directed and developed by Adrian Alea and led by musical director Jaime Lozano, the evening bursts to life with an all-star lineup of live musicians and dancers, and "local legends." These cameos include Robmariel Olea, dancers from Rosie Herrera Dance Theater, and Miami-based drag legends Adora and Ebonee Excell. ICONS: Celia Cruz will pay tribute through community celebration, exploring themes of Latin cultural identity, resilience and the transformative power of music. CELIA CRUZ 100: Migguel Anggelo's ICONS will perform at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center on Saturday, October 18th at 8:00 p.m. Tickets to all anniversary season shows are on sale now. 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 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-Square-Foot, 330-Seat Waterfront Complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. Previous Next

Cook Like a Pitmaster from the Comforts of Home Thu Mar 09 2023 17:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Memorial Regional Hospital Earns Vascular Verification From American College Of Surgeons South Florida Sun Times Aug 13, 2025 Memorial Regional Hospital, The Flagship Of The Hollywood-Based Memorial Healthcare System, Has Earned Admission Into The Vascular Surgery Verification Program Administered By The American College Of Surgeons (ACS). The Verification Means The Hospital Meets Or Exceeds Criteria Established To Ensure Vascular Surgical And Interventional Inpatients Receive Optimal Care And Treatment. Only seven other facilities in the United States have met ACS requirements for vascular verification, with Memorial being the only one in Florida and the southeast U.S. The next closest facilities to earn the distinction are in New York and Texas, each approximately 1,300 miles away. “Our vascular surgery program’s verification by the American College of Surgeons and the Society for Vascular Surgery recognizes our commitment to delivering the highest standards of evidence-based, patient-centered vascular care and continuous quality improvement,” said Memorial Division of Vascular Surgery Chief Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez Zoppi. “It will also foster innovation by promoting the exchange of current and evolving scientific knowledge, surgical techniques, and best practices in vascular surgery.” Memorial’s vascular program features five board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeons, four advanced practice providers, 24/7 surgical coverage, and an IAC-accredited non-invasive laboratory that supports both neurointerventionalists and interventional radiologists. The ACS Vascular Surgery Verification Program evaluates facilities by a variety of standards, including institutional commitment, program scope and governance, resources, equipment, services, personnel, clinical care, data abstraction and analysis, and quality improvement. Its verification provides an evidence-driven, standardized pathway for vascular programs to establish and grow their quality improvement and clinical care infrastructure. As a vascular verified hospital, Memorial Regional also becomes an ACS Surgical Quality Partner, signifying the hospital’s dedication to consistently improving procedures, approaches, and processes. Memorial Cardiac & Vascular Institute, part of Memorial Healthcare System, offers a wide array of services dedicated to the prevention, detection, treatment and rehabilitation of heart and vascular conditions, including cardiology, electrophysiology, adult congenital heart disease, heart failure, heart surgery and heart transplant. Its combination of extraordinary medical expertise, advanced technology, and exacting quality guidelines deliver the best possible outcomes for those receiving care tailored to their specific needs. For more information on total heart care, visit them at: www.mhs.net/services/cardiac-vascular . The American College of Surgeons is a scientific and educational organization of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to raise the standards of surgical practice and improve the quality of care for all surgical patients. The College is dedicated to the ethical and competent practice of surgery. Its achievements have significantly influenced the course of scientific surgery in America and have established it as an important advocate for all surgical patients. The College has more than 88,000 members and is the largest organization of surgeons in the world. Memorial Cardiac and Vascular Institute team at Memorial Regional Hospital Previous Next

Seven Most Common Symptoms of Grief By Tracy Renee Lee March 2, 2022 Share Sadness is Often Confused With Depression By Survivors The seven most commonly reported symptoms suffered by survivors during grief are sadness, shock, disbelief, guilt, anger, fear, and physical ailments. There are numerous other symptoms; however, these are the seven most common. Sadness is the most universally experienced symptom of grief. You may also have feelings of emptiness, despair, yearning, or deep loneliness. Sadness is often confused with depression by survivors. However, when suffering sadness, survivors do not experience the loss of self-worth as those who suffer depression. Sadness is transient and will lessen as time passes. Survivors will begin experiencing normal happiness levels as they adjust to their new reality of life without their loved ones by their side. Unlike depressed individuals, survivors suffering sadness are also able to be distracted. They can set their dismay aside and participate in important and uplifting events. Of course, their participation in such events may be less animated and more of an obligatory nature than usual; nevertheless, they are able to participate to a degree. Although you may be expecting your loved one to die, the actual moment of death seems to shock you into an awareness of the depth of your loss. No matter how anticipated or expected the passing of your loved one is, the actual time and date remain a mystery. For that reason, death seems to shock your awareness of the finality of death and usher in the reality of other ailments. You may feel numb, have trouble believing that the loss is real or permanent, or even deny the truth. Disbelief is there for your protection. The shock of surviving your loved one signals the stress hormone cortisol production. The production of this hormone in excess can cause severe complications to your health. Extended production of this hormone may lead to your death if you do not engage in grief recovery. Disbelief is not denial. You may feel guilty about things you did or didn’t say or do, or about feelings (e.g., feeling relieved when the person dies after a long, complex illness). Survivors may feel guilty upon the death of a loved one that they perhaps treated poorly. It is important to realize that these feelings are usually regret rather than guilt. These feelings are normal and may motivate the survivor to change their ways to treat others more kindly and politely. Doing so assists the survivor in overcoming their negative feelings toward themselves. Feelings of guilt over a person dying after a long or complex illness are feeling of relief. These feelings are generated through kindness between human beings and should not distress you. It is the love that you have toward another that brings on these feelings. You may be angry with yourself, God, the doctors, or even the person who died for abandoning you. Anger is a normal symptom that should pass as the survivor accepts the reality of their new existence. You may feel angry toward your loved one for things they left undone, or for new skills that you must now learn in their absence. You may feel angry because you suffer loneliness or because you didn’t have the chance to say goodbye. Perhaps you are angry at yourself because you left things unsaid, or you are frustrated and afraid. Whatever brings on your anger, understand that as you adjust to your new life, anger will diminish and be replaced with loving memories of your loved one (if they were a lovable person). The death of a loved one can trigger fears about your mortality, of facing life without your loved one, or the responsibilities you now face alone. Fear is a common symptom of grief. If you have lived with your loved one for decades, being without them beside you can cause you to fear being at home alone or perhaps going to the grocery store alone. The fact is that we are social beings and suddenly being without your companion is frightening. Perhaps your loved one was a child. If you are a parent who suffers the loss of a child, you may have fears that other of your children might also die, especially if the cause of death were genetic. Maybe your children were involved in an activity together that caused the death. In such a case, your fears that your other child may suffer from the activity may be valid. If you have lost a child, my sincerest condolences go out to you. Grief often involves physical ailments such as fatigue, nausea, lowered immunity, weight loss or weight gain, aches and pains, and insomnia. Physical symptoms often accompany the loss of a loved one. If your symptoms are persistent, it is suggested that you seek out your physician for consultation. If you have pre-existing conditions, you should likewise consult your physician. Sometimes these physical ailments are associated with the inability to rest due to a pre-occupation of your decedent. Often physical symptoms may be related to your lack of self-care while suffering such enduring stress. It is suggested that you keep a journal of your self-care while enduring bereavement. In your self-care journal, track your medications, the times you eat, and especially write down the amount of water you drink. The physical ailments of grief are often related to dehydration. Once dehydrated, you will feel terrible, and it can become hazardous very swiftly. Please keep yourself well hydrated. Each of these seven common symptoms accompanying grief usually lessens over time as you adjust to your new reality as a survivor. If you find that these symptoms remain persistent (lasting over six months), it is suggested that you consult your physician. If at any time these symptoms become severe, or you fear that you may harm yourself, immediately seek out medical intervention. Additionally, your usual health care practitioner may not be educated in grief recovery. For this reason, I suggest that if these symptoms persist or become ailments, you also seek out a grief recovery specialist. Grief recovery specialists are schooled to recognize coping discrepancies and will be able to assist you in applying strategies that are geared directly toward grief recovery. My name is Tracy Renee Lee. I am a Certified Grief Counselor (GC-C), Funeral Director (FDIC), published author, syndicated columnist, Podcaster, and founder of the “Mikey Joe Children’s Memorial” and Heaven Sent, Corp. I write books, weekly bereavement articles, Podcasts, and Grief BRIEFs related to understanding and coping with grief. I am the American Funeral Director of the Year Runner-Up and recipient of the BBB’s Integrity Award. It is my life's work to comfort the bereaved and help them live on. For additional encouragement, please visit my podcast “Deadline” at https://open.spotify.com/show/7MHPy4ctu9OLvdp2JzQsAA or at https://anchor.fm/tracy874 and follow me on Instagram at "Deadline_TracyLee" < Previous News Next News >

Celebrate Diversity: August Is National Black Business Month By Joyce R. Forchion - LOVE Aventura July 19, 2024 Share Now is the time to recognize the overwhelming economic impact of the Black-owned business. The influence of an entrepreneur’s success story is apparent in his or her impenetrable brand and capability of fulfilling a need, or void, in the marketplace. Many would immediately recognize the names of wildly popular conglomerates such as Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, World Wide Technology, and the Oprah Winfrey Network. Representing 10% of all businesses in the United States, and 30% of minority businesses nationwide, what are the prospects for profitability among small business owners? As access to capital increases among Black business owners, the future of growth and development continues to paint a promising picture. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy, Black-owned businesses account for 3.5 million companies in the nation and more than 1.2 million jobs in competitive industries such as retail, education, finance, hospitality, and technology. For the past 20 years, institutions and professionals acknowledge National Black Business Month in August, urging consumers everywhere to recognize the past and current contributions of Black-owned operations as they catalyze immense wealth within the global economy. Moreover, such companies also promote inclusionary measures paving the way for diverse employees to not only make a comfortable living but achieve economic prosperity. Given Aventura’s solid foundation for inclusive business representation throughout the city, here’s a list of ways in which locals and tourists alike can support Black-owned companies and brands during National Black Business Month: Curate a list of Black-owned businesses to support in the month of August, and beyond. Look within the City of Aventura – and adjacent Miami-Dade County neighborhoods in general – to support some Black-owned gems. The lively flavor of Black-owned businesses contributes to the multicultural landscape that is apparent all around us, enlivening our communities with diverse perspectives that affect the way in which we experience South Florida. Local culinary haunts are plentiful and provide options to satiate various palates, such as the Jamaican-infused Jrk! located in Aventura Mall’s Treats Food Hall, Smith & Webster Restaurant and Bar’s elevated Southern and American cuisine, and The Krazy Vegan’s delectable plant-based comfort food items. Align yourself with retailers that advocate for The Fifteen Percent Pledge during National Black Business Month. Since Black Americans compose 15% of the United States population, corporations are asked to fill 15% of their shelf and inventory space with merchandise from Black-owned brands through their commitment to the Pledge. For instance, Nordstrom Aventura has joined the charge to promote a more equitable playing field for Black-owned creators to grow, thrive, and showcase their products in mainstream spaces by spotlighting a special merchandise display at their location from Monday, August 19th, 2024, to Wednesday, August 21st, 2024. Residents are encouraged to visit and purchase products from featured brands during this showcase. Refer to the Miami Black Business Guide to find an array of Black-owned shops, hotels, restaurants, and services. Updated annually, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau publishes a listing of hundreds of establishments catering to tourists and individuals seeking an authentic in-town experience, plus groups who are planning on hosting upcoming weddings, corporate meetings, and organizational conferences in the area. LOVE, AVENTURA. A column celebrating the heart, soul and culture of our community. < Previous News Next News >

Giving Thanks & Thanksgiving By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil November 17, 2023 Share We Americans are thankful people. On Veteran’s Day we thank the brave men and women of our country that served in the military. On Memorial Day, we show our gratitude to those courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending our liberties and democratic lifestyle. On Labor Day, we express our appreciation to the industrious American workforce, the people who keep the wheels of our economy turning. On other days, we pause to thank different historic individuals who have made valuable contributions to our nation. And then there is Thanksgiving. The day when we thank G‑d for enabling all the above—and for everything else: He so kindly does for us. There is no doubt that this great country’s historically unprecedented success and prosperity is due to the fact that its Founding Fathers recognized that there is a Supreme Being who provides and cares for every creature. They understood that since G‑d sustains and gives life to every being, it follows that every being has certain “unalienable rights” upon which no government can impinge. These strong morals upon which our republic was founded express themselves to this day in American life. Looking at the dollar bill and seeing “In G-d We Trust” is a reassurance that, as a people, we still recognize and acknowledge the Source of all our achievements. As Jewish citizens of this land, we always look to the Torah for a deeper perspective and additional insight. What light does the Torah shed on the wonderful trait of thankfulness? Actually, there is one particular mitzvah which is completely devoted to expressing gratitude—the Mitzvah of Bikkurim (Deuteronomy 26:1–12). During the Temple era, every farmer was commanded to bring to the Holy Temple in Jerusalem the first fruits which ripened in his orchard. There he would recite a passage thanking G‑d for the Land and its bountiful harvest, and the fruits were given to the Kohanim (priests). The Midrash extols the great virtue of this Mitzvah, going so far as to say that the Land of Israel was given to the Jews as a reward for the Mitzvah of Bikkurim they would observe after entering the Land! While the importance of expressing deserved gratitude is self-understood, it is difficult to comprehend the special significance of Bikkurim. Isn’t the Jewish day jam-packed with “thank you”s? The first words we utter when waking in the morning, Modeh Ani, expresses our thanks to G‑d for returning our souls to our bodies. Thrice daily during the course of prayer, we thank G‑d for everything imaginable. Before and after eating, we thank G‑d for the food. There is even a blessing recited upon exiting the restroom, thanking G‑d for normal bodily function! With all the thanking which occurs on a daily basis, why the need for a specific Mitzvah commandment to emphasize the point? And why the great reward for this particular form of expressing thanks? The Rebbe points out one obvious difference between Bikkurim and all the other ways we thank G‑d: Bikkurim involves more than just words—it requires a commitment; the gratitude must express itself in deeds. Bikkurim implies that our thankfulness to G‑d cannot remain in the realm of emotions, thoughts, or even speech, but must also move us to action. While the Mitzvah of Bikkurim in its plainest sense is not practicable today, its lessons are timeless. Our gratitude to G‑d must express itself in the actions of our daily life. Giving back the “first of our fruit,” the choicest share of the crop, is the only appropriate way to thank G‑d for giving us all our fruit. So this Thanksgiving, in addition to saying thanks, let’s give thanks, with a bit more than just words. Let’s show G-d our appreciation by being more kind and generous, giving to the people and good causes around us! Happy Thanksgiving! About The Author Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, CHAP - an After School Program for Jewish children in Public Schools and direct Chabad Chayil. He’s the Rabbi at The Family Shul and can be reached at: (305) 770-1919. Or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org . < Previous News Next News >

Fall In Love With Fun: February's Festivities at The LOOP Welcome Everyone Under the Sun January 29, 2025 Share This February, The LOOP Fort Lauderdale Beach becomes a hub of heartfelt celebrations with a series of free, family and pet-friendly events designed to spread love and joy all month. From the romantic We Still Do: Valentine's Day Vow Renewal Ceremony to the vibey 60’s beach party themed Fifth Annual Fur the Love Pet Fest, a Goddess Gathering Galentine’s Flow to the Friday Night Sound Waves Backstage Pass Tribute Series, there's something special for everyone under the sun to adore. Sponsored in major part by the City of Fort Lauderdale Beach Business Improvement District, local businesses and the event organizers invite residents and visitors to celebrate a month filled with love, music and unforgettable experiences at Las Olas Oceanside Park. February’s lineup of events include: Full Moon Experience: Goddess Gathering – A Galentine's Day Event | Thursday, February 13th, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. Celebrate Galentine's Day in a magical setting at the Goddess Gathering: A Galentine's Day Experience, the perfect event to honor besties, moms or any special woman. Join The LOOP on February 13th, 2025, starting at 6:00 p.m. to engage in creative activities such as DIY goddess headbands, boho tattoos, photo fun and explore vendors offering holistic services. At 7:00 p.m., immerse in a heart-opening cacao meditation ceremony followed by an exhilarating journey of movement and high-vibrational DJ music, all led by Erik Guru Lieux. This creates the ideal atmosphere for ecstatic dance and star gazing, allowing one to strengthen existing friendships and foster new community connections. The night concludes with partner stretches and a serene full moon meditation led by Lisa Pumper, providing a perfect ending to a night of mindfulness and movement under the full moon. Designed to be inclusive, the session offers modifications to accommodate various abilities, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably. Tickets are available for $30 per person or a special limited rate of $55 for two. Day-of tickets are $40. Tickets include the cacao elixir, goddess headband and more. Please bring a towel to sit on for the activities. For more details and to register, please visit: https://theloopflb.com/events/goddess-gathering/ We Still Do: A Valentine's Day Vow Renewal | Friday, February 14th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Whether celebrating one month, six decades or the historic 10th anniversary of marriage equality in Florida, join The LOOP for a memorable vow renewal ceremony on Friday, February 14th, 2025 at Las Olas Oceanside Park. Presented by the Fort Lauderdale Beach Business Community, this free event features a non-denominational group vow renewal and a post-ceremony concert reception. Experience the magic of reaffirming love at sunset, surrounded by swaying palm trees and a soothing beach breeze, creating the perfect backdrop for romance, music and unforgettable moments. • Ceremony Check-in begins: 5:00 p.m. • Vow Renewal Ceremony: 6:00 p.m. • Post-Ceremony Concert featuring Divas of Soul: 7:00 p.m. Available add-on experiences: • Vow Renewal Packages: Enhance the day with exclusive packages featuring florals for the ceremony and reserved seating for the post-ceremony concert. • Mini Photo Sessions: Snap memories inside the Good Times Roll Vintage VW Photo Bus. A limited number of 15-minute private photo sessions are available between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. • Divas of Soul Concert: Reserve a table and stay for the soulful sounds of the Divas of Soul live in concert starting at 7:00 p.m. Make it a weekend of love! Extend the celebration with special dining options, weekend stay packages and giveaways. For more details and to register, visit: https://theloopflb.com/events/we-still-do-a-valentines-day-vow-renewal/ The Ninth Annual Friday Night Sound Waves "Backstage Pass" Tribute Act Series Join The LOOP for the Ninth Annual Friday Night Sound Waves "Backstage Pass" series, where iconic tribute acts will light up Las Olas Oceanside Park with legendary hits. Feel the love under the stars with a lineup dedicated to songs of love and harmony, starting with Divas of Soul in a tribute to Diana Ross on February 14th and celebrating “One Love” with a curated concert presented by the Bad Boys of Reggae, Inner Circle, honoring South Florida Reggae Month on February 21st, 2025. The month concludes on a high note with Pat Benatar's powerful rock anthems on February 28th, 2025. Experience iconic hits like “Heartbreaker,” “Love is a Battlefield,” and “We Live for Love”—each song echoing the passion and intensity of Love, ensuring the month ends as vibrantly as it began. The February Lineup includes: February 14th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.: Divas of Soul featuring Latraia Savage. Immerse in an evening of soul and power with Latraia Savage as she pays homage to the incomparable Diana Ross. This special performance will not only highlight the timeless hits of Ross but also feature beloved love songs and classics from Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Donna Summer, Tina Turner and more. Savage brings her own unique flair and powerful vocals to each song, creating an unforgettable experience that spans the spectrum of music history's most influential women. Celebrate love and empowerment in a night filled with the most memorable music from the queens of pop, soul and rock. February 21st, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.: ONE LOVE: Feel the rhythm of love and unity at the ONE LOVE Reggae Month Celebration, presented by the legendary Bad Boys of Reggae, Inner Circle. Join The LOOP on February 21st, 2025 for an evening dedicated to the spirit of love that Reggae music embodies. This special concert will feature a lineup of surprise guest artists who will collaborate to bring an unforgettable night of powerful performances. Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of reggae, where every beat and melody resonate with messages of peace, love and harmony. February 28th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.: All Fired Up – The Pat BenatarExperience: Experience the thrilling energy of rock with All Fired Up as they honor the legendary Pat Benatar. This dynamic group expertly captures Benatar's iconic style with powerful vocals and a compelling stage presence. Their repertoire features all-time favorites like “Heartbreaker,” “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” “Love is a Battlefield,” and “We Belong,” transporting audiences back to the heyday of rock. All Fired Up offers more than just a concert—it's a high-energy journey through Benatar's groundbreaking career. Perfect for both lifelong fans and new listeners, this tribute brings the heart and soul of rock 'n' roll to life. For complete details, visit: https://theloopflb.com/events/categories/live-music/ Fifth Annual Fur the Love Pet Fest | Saturday, February 15th, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.: Celebrate National Love Your Pet Day with a splash of ’60s fun at the Fifth Annual Fur the Love Pet Fest on Saturday, February 15th. This year is all about retro vibes with nostalgic music, classic beach games, local pet and people vendors and pet-friendly activities that earned the much-anticipated event Silver in Fort Lauderdale Magazine’s 2024 Readers Poll. Once again hosted by the dynamic mom and pup duo behind the award-winning Instagram @TourwithTeddy and blog "Living A Fairytail," guests can expect a far-out day filled with excitement and memorable moments. Profits from the event will benefit upcoming pet-friendly experiences at The LOOP in 2025. Pack a beach blanket, sunscreen and the best retro beach threads for an outta-sight time. Whether it's bell bottoms or a polka dot bikini, hip guests can come dressed in style and ready to strut their stuff with their funky fur friend by their side. Admission is free, with pre-registered children under 18 and pets receiving an FTLBeach keepsake beach ball, which supplies last. VIP tickets are also available for $10, which includes admission, one (1) Wristband for Good Times Roll Photo Bus, (1) Beach Blanket Bingo Card for Prizes from Select Vendors and (3) Raffle Tickets and Entry for a Grand Prize Package. Stellar activities include: Beach Bash Relays: Dive into the fun with classic beach games like frisbee toss, hula hoop and limbo—perfect for pets and parents to enjoy together. Groovy Music: Twist and shout to the greatest hits of the 60s, grooving to nostalgic rhythms that bring the era's spirit alive. Beachcomber's Bazaar Vendor Village: Explore the vendor village where local businesses offer everything from pet products and retro gear to delicious treats. It’s a shopper’s paradise with a nostalgic twist. Snap Stations: Capture the retro beach day at themed photo stations. Pose for timeless pictures in the "Good Times VW Photo Bus" or make a splash in the "Surfer 360 Photo Booth." Located throughout the park, these snap stations are go-to spots for memorable photos. Snack Shack: Refresh and refuel at Snack Shack cabanas, where a variety of food and drinks await. Whether guests crave something savory or sweet or need a cool beverage, the cabanas are a beachside retreat for tasty treats and relaxation. Beach Blanket Bingo: The optional Beach Blanket Bingo Card adds an extra layer of fun. Available for $10 on-site or in advance as part of a VIP package, it’s a creative twist on the classic game. Visit vendors to collect stamps, complete your card and register for exciting prizes. For tickets and details or to participate as a sponsor or vendor, visit: https://theloopflb.com/events/5th-annual-ftl-pet-fest/ Ongoing Activities at Las Olas Oceanside Park: Leash Up at The LOOP | Saturday, February 8th, 2025 at 10:45 a.m.: Ready to teach an old (or young) dog some new tricks? In honor of Dog Training Education Month, commemorated in February, and the City of Fort Lauderdale's recent adoption of making all parks pet-friendly, The LOOP will debut Leash Up at The LOOP starting Saturday, February 8th. Don't miss out on leveling up pup’s manners while sharpening those sits and stays just in time for the FTL Pet Fest. The free monthly dog assessment and training session will take place on the second Saturday of each month, starting at 10:45 a.m. Sponsored by Dog Training Elite Broward, each session will begin with an individual assessment, where trainers evaluate the dog's behavior, social skills and obedience level. This personalized approach ensures the training session is tailored to meet the dog's unique needs. Following the assessments, participants will join a group training session focusing on practical skills to improve leash manners, reinforce basic commands and address common challenges such as jumping or pulling. The training emphasizes positive reinforcement techniques to help the dog adapt to public spaces, interact politely with other dogs and people, and enjoy their time at Fort Lauderdale's pet-friendly parks. Pre-registration is required at: https://theloopflb.com/events/leash-up-at-the-loop-2025-02-08/ THE MKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park, Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Sundays: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Immerse in the serene beauty of Fort Lauderdale Beach at The MKT, where breathtaking views and refreshing ocean breezes complement an eclectic array of homemade and handmade fare. From fresh produce and fruit to global flavors and unique items perfect for the home or wardrobe, the market is open every weekend, year-round. Pull up a chair and enjoy live music, participate in heart-healthy fitness classes or join in seasonal “More at The MKT” specialty events, all designed to enhance wellness and enjoyment. Heart Health Month at The MKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park This February, join The LOOP at The MKT for a month dedicated to heart health. Kickstart a wellness journey with free yoga sessions amidst the scenic views of Fort Lauderdale Beach. Every Saturday morning, Lisa will lead Free Flow Yoga from 9:45 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and on the last Sunday of the month, Nzingah will offer a Transformative Yoga session from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. These activities are designed to improve physical and mental well-being in a relaxing beachside setting. Participants are encouraged to bring a yoga mat or beach towel and sunscreen and to register in advance to receive a complimentary bottle of Smartwater® at every class. For more details or to register, please visit: https://theloopflb.com/events/categories/loop-fit/ Seaside Sessions & Heartfelt Bites Experience live music every Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and explore heart-healthy food options with vendors providing fresh produce, nutritious samples and homemade meals. Enjoy offerings from Fresh Organics & More, Dips4You, Le Bon Coeur, The Protein Booth, Sweet Blendz Acai and more, plus healthy food samplings on select days. Valentine’s Day Market and Random Acts of Kindness Week Celebrate Valentine’s Day on Sunday, February 16th, 2025 with a special market accompanied by live music from The Minx & The Maestro and Valentine’s Photo Block Craft Station. Leading up to this event, participate in the MKT’s Random Acts of Kindness giveaways via their social media channels. The week's festivities conclude with hourly giveaways at the market, fostering a spirit of community and generosity. Follow TheMKT on Instagram and Facebook at @oceansideparkmarket for all the latest updates, giveaway details and much more. For more information, visit: https://theloopflb.com/events/categories/market When: • Leash Up at The LOOP: The second Saturday of every month at 10:45 a.m., starting February 8th, 2025 • Full Moon Experience: Goddess Gathering – A Galentine's Day Event: Thursday, February 13th, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. • We Still Do: Valentine’s Day Vow Renewal: Friday, February 14th, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. • Friday Night Sound Waves Backstage Pass Concert Series: Every Friday, February 14th, 2025 through March 28th, 2025 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. • Fifth Annual Fur the Love Pet Fest: Saturday, February 15th, 2025 from 11:00 a.m.to 3:00 p.m. Cost: • Leash Up at The LOOP: Free and open to the public. Space is limited, and registration is required. • Full Moon Experience: Goddess Gathering – A Galentine's Day Event: $30 per person or a special limited rate of $55 for two in advance. Day-of tickets are $40. • We Still Do: Valentine’s Day Vow Renewal: Free and open to the public. Add-on experiences are available for purchase. • Friday Night Sound Waves Backstage Pass Concert Series: Free and open to the public. Fifth Annual Fur the Love Pet Fest: • General Admission: The event is free and open to the public. The ticket includes one FTL Beach keepsake beach ball per child or dog, with a registered adult, while supplies last. • VIP for Adults 18+: $10 (value $20). The ticket includes admission for one adult wristband for Good Times Roll Photo Bus, one beach blanket bingo card for prizes, and three raffle tickets and entry for the grand prize. Where: Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale 33316 - The Las Olas Beach Garage, located at 200 Las Olas Circle, is the most convenient place to park and access the events at Las Olas Oceanside Park. Use the Pay-by-Phone App to extend time from anywhere. About The LOOP A cornerstone of activity, The LOOP (Las Olas Oceanside Park) is the central hub of the $65 Million four-park system at the heart of Fort Lauderdale Beach. The public greenspaces, including the Intracoastal Promenade, Las Olas Beach Garage Sunset Terrace, and DC Alexander Park, aim to provide infinite experiences for everyone under the sun and year-round activity in Fort Lauderdale's oceanfront backyard.Through its four pillars, "FAME," The LOOP offers a variety of special events, activities, and unique local experiences for all, including free concerts, holiday happenings, farmer's markets, community workouts, and more. The LOOP was voted for six accolades in Fort Lauderdale Magazine's "The Best of Fort Lauderdale 2024" readers' poll, including Best Outdoor Space, gold; Best Park, silver; Best Place to Take Kids, silver; Best Farmers Market, silver; Best Event: Fur the Love Pet Fest, silver; and Best Event: Arts & Crafts Festival, bronze. For more information, visit: https://theloopflb.com - Or email: info@theloopflb.com . Follow The LOOP on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/theloopflb - And Instagram at: www.instagram.com/theloopflb/ < Previous News Next News >

PAL Family Fun Day Thu Apr 06 2023 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Wars Are the Enemy of Freedom By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead March 2, 2022 Share It’s time for the U.S. government to stop policing the globe. “No nation could preserve its freedom in the midst of continual warfare.” — James Madison War is the enemy of freedom. As long as America’s politicians continue to involve us in wars that bankrupt the nation, jeopardize our servicemen and women, increase the chances of terrorism and blowback domestically, and push the nation that much closer to eventual collapse, “we the people” will find ourselves in a perpetual state of tyranny. It’s time for the U.S. Government to stop policing the globe. This latest crisis — America’s part in the showdown between Russia and the Ukraine — has conveniently followed on the heels of a long line of other crises, manufactured or otherwise, which have occurred like clockwork in order to keep Americans distracted, deluded, amused, and insulated from the government’s steady encroachments on our freedoms. And so it continues in its Orwellian fashion. Two years after COVID-19 shifted the world into a state of global authoritarianism, just as the people’s tolerance for heavy-handed mandates seems to have finally worn thin, we are being prepped for the next distraction and the next drain on our economy. Yet policing the globe and waging endless wars abroad isn’t making America — or the rest of the world — any safer, it’s certainly not making America great again, and it’s undeniably digging the U.S. deeper into debt. Indeed, even if we were to put an end to all of the government’s military meddling and bring all of the troops home today, it would take decades to pay down the price of these wars and get the government’s creditors off our backs. War has become a huge money - making venture, and the U.S. government, with its vast military empire, is one of its best buyers and sellers. What most Americans — brainwashed into believing that patriotism means supporting the war machine — fail to recognize is that these ongoing wars have little to do with keeping the country safe and everything to do with propping up a military industrial complex that continues to dominate, dictate and shape almost every aspect of our lives. Consider: We are a military culture engaged in continuous warfare. We have been a nation at war for most of our existence. We are a nation that makes a living from killing through defense contracts, weapons manufacturing and endless wars. We are also being fed a steady diet of violence through our entertainment, news and politics. All of the military equipment featured in blockbuster movies is provided — at taxpayer expense — in exchange for carefully placed promotional spots. Even reality TV shows have gotten in on the gig, with the Pentagon’s entertainment office helping to sell war to the American public. It’s estimated that U.S. military intelligence agencies (including the NSA) have influenced over 1,800 movies and TV shows. And then there are the growing number of video games, a number of which are engineered by or created for the military, which have accustomed players to interactive war play through military simulations and first-person shooter scenarios. This is how you acclimate a population to war. This is how you cultivate loyalty to a war machine. This is how, to borrow from the subtitle to the 1964 film Dr. Strangelove, you teach a nation to “stop worrying and love the bomb.” The media, eager to score higher ratings, has been equally complicit in making (real) war more palatable to the public by packaging it as TV friendly. This is how you sell war to a populace that may have grown weary of endless wars: sanitize the war coverage of anything graphic or discomfiting (present a clean war), gloss over the actual numbers of soldiers and civilians killed (human cost), cast the business of killing humans in a more abstract, palatable fashion (such as a hunt), demonize one’s opponents, and make the weapons of war a source of wonder and delight. Not satisfied with peddling its war propaganda through Hollywood, reality TV shows and embedded journalists whose reports came across as glorified promotional ads for the military, the Pentagon has also turned to sports to further advance its agenda, “tying the symbols of sports with the symbols of war.” The military has been firmly entrenched in the nation’s sports spectacles ever since, having co-opted football, basketball, even NASCAR. This is how you sustain the nation’s appetite for war. No wonder the United States is the number one consumer, exporter and perpetrator of violence and violent weapons in the world. Seriously, America spends more money on war than the combined military budgets of China, Russia, the United Kingdom, Japan, France, Saudi Arabia, India, Germany, Italy and Brazil. America polices the globe, with 800 military bases and troops stationed in 160 countries. Moreover, the war hawks have turned the American homeland into a quasi-battlefield with military gear, weapons and tactics. In turn, domestic police forces have become roving extensions of the military—a standing army. We are dealing with a sophisticated, far-reaching war machine that has woven itself into the very fabric of this nation. Clearly, our national priorities are in desperate need of an overhaul. Eventually, all military empires fall and fail by spreading themselves too thin and spending themselves to death. It happened in Rome: at the height of its power, even the mighty Roman Empire could not stare down a collapsing economy and a burgeoning military. Prolonged periods of war and false economic prosperity largely led to its demise. It’s happening again. The American Empire — with its endless wars waged by U.S. military service people who have been reduced to little more than guns for hire: outsourced, stretched too thin, and deployed to far-flung places to police the globe—is approaching a breaking point. The government is destabilizing the economy, destroying the national infrastructure through neglect and a lack of resources, and turning taxpayer dollars into blood money with its endless wars, drone strikes and mounting death tolls. This is exactly the scenario President Dwight D. Eisenhower warned against when he cautioned the citizenry not to let the profit-driven war machine endanger our liberties or democratic processes. What we have is a confluence of factors and influences that go beyond mere comparisons to Rome. It is a union of Orwell’s 1984 with its shadowy, totalitarian government—i.e., fascism, the union of government and corporate powers—and a total surveillance state with a military empire extended throughout the world. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, this is how tyranny rises and freedom falls. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an attorney and author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of constitutional law, human rights and popular culture. John Whitehead's commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org . Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org . < Previous News Next News >

A September To Remember: Conversations, Comedy, Music & More August 15, 2024 Share Unfiltered and thoughtful conversations with Author/Journalist Douglas Murray and Khadeen Ellis, Stand-Up-Comedy from Mark Normand and the funny panelists from NPR’s hit news quiz show, and Rock Music from Grammy-Winner Warren Haynes and Former King Crimson members make it a September to remember in the Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker. It’s a night of Stand-Up-Comedy featuring some of the funniest panelists from the hit NPR news quiz when The Wait Wait Stand-Up Tour comes to The Parker as part of the Truist Comedy Series on Thursday, September 5th at 8:00 p.m. Some of the most hilarious and insightful people in the country, they have been heard answering questions about the week's news but, of course, subject to FCC limitations. Here’s a chance to enjoy a full evening of their unfiltered stand-up comedy in this event presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and AEG Presents. A VIP Package is available. The Broward Center and Live Nation present Author and Journalist Douglas Murray on Sunday, September 8th at 7:30 p.m. Based in Britain, Murray has been a contributor to The Spectator since 2000 and has been Associate Editor at the magazine since 2012. A regular contributor to National Review, UnHerd and The Free Press, he has also written regularly for numerous other outlets including The Wall Street Journal, The Times, The Sunday Times, The Sun, The Evening Standard, The New York Post and The New Criterion. His latest publication is the international bestseller, The War on the West, which follows The Madness of Crowds, a bestseller and Book of the Year for The Times and The Sunday Times. Murray's 2017 The Strange Death of Europe: Immigration, Identity, Islam spent almost 20 weeks on The Sunday Times bestseller list and has been published in more than 20 languages worldwide. Murray founded the Centre for Social Cohesion, the first think-tank in Britain to study Extremism and Terrorism and which subsequently became part of the Henry Jackson Society. Broward Center & Live Nation Presents bring The Warren Haynes Band: Million Voices Whisper Tour to The Parker on Thursday, September 19th at 8:00 p.m. Led by Grammy® Award-Winning Vocalist, Songwriter, Guitar Legend, Producer, and Gov’t Mule Front Man Warren Haynes, and with a new studio album, “Million Voices Whisper,” due out this fall, the band’s new all-star lineup includes Gov’t Mule Bassist Kevin Scott, Veteran Band Member and Two-Time Grammy Award-Winning Drummer Terence Higgins (Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Ani DiFranco), and the Venerable Greg Osby on Saxophone with longtime friend and famed Keyboardist John Medeski (Medeski, Martin & Wood). A cornerstone of the American music landscape, Haynes is lauded as one of the most Formidable Guitarists and Vocalists of the modern era and a Prolific Songwriter and Producer. He effortlessly cross-pollinates genres and unfurls solos that broil with passion in his distinctive, signature style. His solo album, “Ashes & Dust,” is one of his most musically rich and personal albums to date, with “Company Man” and “Coal Tattoo” serving as a link to the folk tradition of narrative writing. Throughout his prolific career as part of three of the greatest live groups in rock history – Allman Brothers Band, Gov’t Mule and the Grateful Dead – and an acclaimed solo artist, he has become one of music’s most treasured storytellers and his artistry has led to thousands of memorable performances and millions of album and track sales. Dead Ass Presents: A Day With Kay bringing Khadeen Ellis to The Parker as part of the Truist Comedy Series in an event presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and AEG Presents on Friday, September 20th at:00 8 p.m. Ellis dives deep into life's most compelling conversations offering empowerment, authenticity and real talk. She navigates candid discussions, shares personal stories, and tackles the challenges and triumphs we all face. Whether it's about self-care, relationships or career advice, her genuine approach will inspire audiences with heartfelt discussions, unfiltered opinions and a dose of fun that will leave them feeling understood and uplifted. This event contains adult language or content. A VIP Package is available. Dubbed by Jerry Seinfeld as the "best young up and coming comic," Mark Normand performs his Ya Don’t Say Tour on Saturday, September 21st at 7:00 p.m. in an event presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Outback Presents. The host of the podcasts Tuesdays with Stories and We Might Be Drunk, this extremely prolific comic has had two Comedy Central specials, the recent one-hour Netflix Special, Soup to Nuts, and 2020's Out to Lunch, which amassed over 12 million views on YouTube. He also starred on Netflix's Season 3 of The Stand Up appeared on Conan, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and he is a frequent guest on The Joe Rogan Experience. This event contains adult language or content. A VIP Package is available. BEAT: Belew/Vai/Levin/Carey play '80s King Crimson on Thursday, September 26th at 8:00 p.m. as part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series in a concert presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and AEG Presents. Former King Crimson Members Adrian Belew and Tony Levin band together with Guitar Virtuoso Steve Vai and Explosive Tool Drummer Danny Carey for the first time to create BEAT, a creative reinterpretation of the three iconic '80s King Crimson albums Discipline, Beat and Three of a Perfect Pair. Some of the greatest players in the world deliver this incredibly influential music. VIP Packages are available. Experience an unforgettable evening at the 15th Anniversary Ghost Light Society Soirée Presented by UKG on Saturday, September 27th at 7:00 p.m. The event will feature delicious food, premium open bar, dancing, and more, all on the stage at The Parker. The highlight of the night will be a live, intimate performance by Steven Page, formerly of the Barenaked Ladies – a rare opportunity to be right on stage with the sensational musician as he performs a private set featuring some of BNL's hit songs. GA event limited to 250 guests. The Annual Ghost Light Society Soirée brings young philanthropists and community and business leaders together to raise funding for arts-in-education at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which has the largest FREE Arts-In-Education Program in the nation. All proceeds from the 15th Anniversary event will go to support educational programs that aim to benefit more than 100,000 Broward County students in the upcoming school year. For more info: https://www.browardcenter.org/support/membership/ghost-light-society 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. For more information, visit: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com < Previous News Next News >