Stay Cool at Gulfstream Park Village this Summer: South Florida’s favorite entertainment and restaurant destination invites guests to experience its diverse offerings Fri May 19 2023 16:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Looking For A FREE Ride: Expanded Service Route Now Underway Thu Sep 07 2023 16:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Better-For-You Swap - Indulge Your Sweet Tooth This Holiday Season Family Features December 12, 2024 Share If you've ever come home from a crisp, cool day craving a warm, indulgent treat, you're not alone. Trouble is, sometimes those baked goodies are a bit too much work when you're ready to just cozy up on the couch. There's good news: Baking doesn't have to be hard when you make simple swaps and use ingredients that keep things easy. Try adding fresh produce to a boxed brownie mix in these Sweetpotato Cheesecake Brownies for an "in between" recipe that satisfies your sweet tooth without the hassle. Plus, it offers a better-for-you twist as the sweetness from mashed Sweetpotatoes can replace some of the sugar needed to bake regular brownies. Sweetpotatoes are rich in Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants and Fiber, all of which are good for overall health in this natural sweetener. While you're sharing this newfound favorite dessert with loved ones, you can also share this fun fact: "Sweetpotato" is deliberately spelled as one word by the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission. The Sweetpotato and White Potato are two distinct species representing two different plant families, and the one-word spelling helps correctly distinguish the two. Give these better-for-you treats a try and find more delicious desserts and other creative ways to use Sweetpotatoes at: https://ncsweetpotatoes.com Sweetpotato Cheesecake Brownies Recipe courtesy of the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission Servings: 16 Brownie Layer: Floured baking spray 1 18.2 Ounce Package of Dark Chocolate Fudge Brownie mix 3/4 Cup of Mashed Sweetpotato, cooled 1/4 Cup of Vegetable Oil 1/4 Cup of Water 1 Egg Cheesecake Layer: 1 8 Ounce Package of Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese 3/4 Cup of mashed Sweetpotato, cooled 1/2 Cup of Granulated Sugar 1 Egg 1 Teaspoon of Vanilla Extract 1/4 Cup of Miniature Chocolate Chips Preheat the oven to 350 F. Spray a 9-by-9-inch square pan with the Floured Baking Spray. To prepare the Brownie Layer: In a medium bowl, stir the Brownie mix, the Sweetpotato, the Oil, the Water and the Egg until they are blended. Spread the Batter in the bottom of the prepared pan. To prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Using an electric mixer, beat the Cream Cheese until it is smooth. Add the mashed Sweetpotato, the Sugar, the Egg and the Vanilla; mix until it is well blended. Spread the Cheese mixture over the Brownie Batter. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted comes out almost clean. Remove it from the oven and cool it for 15 minutes. Sprinkle the surface with the Chocolate Chips and cool it completely. Remove it from the pan and serve it. Substitution: Use Coconut Sugar in place of Granulated Sugar. < Previous News Next News >

The City of Hollywood is Using A New Web Solution That Helps Identify Unregistered Vacation Rentals Thu Jun 03 2021 04:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Youth Advisory Board June 8, 2021 Share Get Involved, The Deadline Is This Friday To Register The City of Aventura is accepting applications for member positions available on the Youth Advisory Board through Friday, June 11, 2021. Potential board members must be Aventura residents of high school age. Potential board members must be Aventura residents of high school age and be actively enrolled in a public or private high school for the 2021/2022 school year. Applicants must be willing to make a commitment during the school year, attend meetings as scheduled, and participate in other volunteer opportunities as offered. The Board consists of seven members appointed by the Mayor, subject to approval of the City Commission. The mission of the Board is to assist the City of Aventura in educational, civic, and community events and activities. Additional information on the Board can be found in the adopted Ordinance (No. 2017-03), available at cityofaventura.com. Want to Make a Difference, What Is a Youth Advisory Board? A youth advisory board (YAB) is a body of young people appointed by an organization to inform and advise policies and practices that directly impact them. It is important for these kinds of boards to exist. They provide an array of personal experiences, as opposed to just using heuristics, to shape systems and services—but for that to be effective, people must get involved. Drawing from research from previous board member experiences, it’s worth participating on a YAB. YABs are formed because organizations have made the decision to listen to youth. You learn so much thanks to YABs: about systems, about services, about people and programs. More enlightening than anything else, however, is the things you’ll learn about yourself during all this. Being on a YAB just might help you figure out where you’ve been, and where you’re going. But the only way to learn is to find out. Applications can be completed exclusively online at https://www.cityofaventura.com/FormCenter/City-Commission-Advisory-Boards-8/Youth-Advisory-Board-Application-Form-20-71 For more information, please contact the Office of the City Clerk at 305-466-8901 or via email to cityclerk@cityofaventura.com . < Previous News Next News >

Reconsider That Fixer Upper: Finance A Home Renovation Into Your Mortgage Application By Family Features August 24, 2023 Share For younger Homeowners and First-Time Homebuyers in particular, money is likely to be tight. When most available cash is directed to the best possible Down Payment to secure a home in a desired neighborhood, there's often little left for improvements. According to a Profile of Buyers' Home Feature Preference Report from the National Association of Realtors, 53% of Homebuyers took on a Home Improvement Project within three months of buying with Kitchen Projects being a priority for 47% of those surveyed. However, when Buyers Finance a Home Renovation into their Mortgage Application, they can broaden their options of available properties to include Fixer-Uppers that can be upgraded prior to move-in. A finance option like the Guaranteed Rate Home Renovation Loan allows Homebuyers to visualize the home they want versus the one that's listed. By rolling Renovation Costs into their Mortgage, Buyers can enjoy a home tailored to their vision while paying a little extra each month for Upgraded Windows, Siding, Decks, Kitchens, Bathrooms or a Walk-In Closet. In many cases, the project can be completed after closing but prior to moving in with Contractor commitments to stay within Budget. If Cosmetic or Structural Improvements are needed when Prospective Homeowners find a property worth bidding on, they can work with a Licensed Loan Officer to secure a Home Renovation Loan. The Borrower's choice of Contractor that meets the Lender Criteria submits an Estimate that's reviewed and validated by the Lender. Once approved and the Mortgage is closed, the Renovation can begin with costs paid upfront, added to the Loan and repaid as part of the Mortgage. Consider Renovation Projects like these: Luxury Renovations are geared toward the enjoyment of a home. They might be as easy as Updating an Entertainment Room or reworking existing Landscaping or as complex as adding a Swimming Pool, Hot Tub, Outdoor Kitchen or Fitness Area. Structural Renovations affect Load-Bearing Elements like Posts, Beams or even the Foundation or Walls of the home. Some examples include adding a Garage, raising a Roof, Converting Rooms or Adding Square Footage to the house. Non-Structural Renovations do not affect Load-Bearing Elements and are often more Cosmetic, including Remodeling Kitchens or Bathrooms, Repainting, Replacing Siding and Upgrading for Accessibility. Consider the out-of-pocket costs of similar Non-Structural Renovation Projects according to Remodeling Magazine's 2023 Cost vs. Value Report when compared with the monthly price of financing via a Guaranteed Rate Home Renovation Loan based on a Sample Mortgage Payment of $2,525 Per Month.* • Bathroom Remodel: $24,606 Out Of Pocket versus $127 Per Month Financed • Hardwood Flooring: $4,900 Out Of Pocket versus $25 Per Month Financed • Finished Basement: $18,400 Out Of Pocket versus $95 Per Month Financed • Kitchen Remodel: $77,939 Out Of Pocket versus $402 Per Month Financed Find more solutions to make the Home Renovation Process easier at: www.Rate.com *Example portions of Payments allocated to Renovation Costs are based on a Purchase Price of $388,800, Down Payment of 20%, 30-Year Fixed Rate Mortgage at a Rate of 6.69%/7.364% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and 360 Mortgage Payments of $2,525. FICO Score and Lock Days based on 740 FICO and 45-Day Lock. < Previous News Next News >

Village of Dentistry: Taking Dentistry To The Next Level Sun Apr 24 2022 04:13:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Taste Of The Islands - Caribbean-American Heritage Festival Brings Vibrant Culture To Pembroke Pines South Florida Sun Times May 22, 2025 On Saturday, June 28th, 2025, From 7:00 p.m. To 11:00 p.m., The City Of Pembroke Pines Will Transform Into A Vibrant Hub Of Caribbean Culture, Music And Art As It Hosts The Highly Anticipated Caribbean-American Heritage Festival At The Charles F. Dodge City Center, Located At 601 City Center Way, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33025. Free And Open To The Public, This Family-Friendly Celebration Promises To Be A Night To Remember, Filled With The Sounds, Flavors, Colors And Rhythms Of The Caribbean. Presented by the City’s Recreation and Cultural Arts Department and supported by the Broward County Cultural Division, the festival is more than just an event—it’s an immersive cultural experience. With a diverse lineup of live performances, culinary delights, interactive art workshops, cultural exhibitions, the festival showcases the rich traditions and dynamic spirit of Caribbean-American communities in South Florida and beyond. A Night of Music, Movement & Caribbean Delights One of the main draws of the festival is its stellar musical lineup, guaranteed to get attendees on their feet. From the pulsing beats of Reggae Soca to the vibrant rhythms of Kompa and the melodic sway of Steel-Pan music, the night’s soundtrack is a celebration of Caribbean musical heritage. Headlining the event are beloved artists such as Rupee, known for his global Soca hits, who blends Caribbean soul with inspirational messages; Roger George, a Trinidadian-born Soca powerhouse and the energetic Visions Band, who consistently deliver high-energy Caribbean jams. Complementing these performances are cultural showcases from the Mucko Jumbies, known for their traditional stilt dancing, vibrant costumes and the Melo Groove Steel Orchestra, whose melodic steel drum harmonies will transport listeners straight to the islands. No Caribbean festival is complete without its signature culinary flair. Attendees will have the chance to explore Caribbean Delights, a curated food and goods market featuring a wide array of traditional Caribbean dishes, snacks and artisan goods. From jerk chicken and plantains to roti, doubles, patties and sweet Caribbean pastries, the festival is a treat for all the senses. Local vendors and craftspeople will also be showcasing handmade items such as jewelry, fashion and home goods inspired by Caribbean aesthetics, giving visitors a chance to take home a piece of the culture. Art, Identity and Heritage at The Frank Starting a little earlier at 5:00 p.m., The Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery will host a unique Art Activation that invites community participation. Led by artist Angela Bolaños, this hands-on experience will focus on themes of cultural memory, identity and storytelling. Participants will create small, embroidered artworks on paper using personal symbols, colors and patterns that reflect their heritage. This interactive component allows attendees to reflect on their own stories and backgrounds while connecting with others through the universal language of art. It's an excellent opportunity for families and individuals alike to engage creatively and meaningfully with Caribbean culture. More Than Just a Festival The Caribbean-American Heritage Festival is part of the City of Pembroke Pines’ ongoing efforts to foster community engagement, celebrate diversity and promote cultural appreciation. In a city known for its multicultural population, the festival provides a platform to honor the contributions and legacy of Caribbean-Americans who have shaped the fabric of South Florida. "This festival is a celebration of community, culture and creativity," said a local resident and Caribbean music fan. "It’s about bringing people together, educating, entertaining and building connections that last well beyond one evening." To make the most of the festival experience, attendees are encouraged to visit the official website at: www.ppines.com/1737/Caribbean-American-Heritage-Festival for the full schedule of performances, food vendor lists and workshop details. Residents and visitors alike can stay informed about the City of Pembroke Pines’ upcoming events by subscribing to Pembroke Pines Media on YouTube, following the city on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @cityofppines. For Comcast customers, local programming can be accessed on Channel 78. From the rhythm of the music to the flavor of the food and the richness of the art, this festival offers a heartfelt celebration of heritage and unity in the heart of Pembroke Pines. Previous Next

5 Ways To Support Your Gut Health For The Fall Season By BPT Oct 15, 2025 As fall routines ramp up and calendars fill, it's natural to feel a little off-kilter. Transitioning from the relaxed pace of summer to the structure of a new school and work schedule can take a toll - not just on your time but also on your digestive system, too. In fact, studies show that stress can affect health through its impact on gut bacteria. To help you stay energized, focused and feeling your best this season, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner is sharing her go-to gut health tips. These simple, effective strategies will help keep your digestion on track so you can ease into autumn with confidence and comfort. 1. Boost digestion before breakfast Blatner suggests starting your morning with a warm glass of lemon water before eating anything. This easy habit helps rehydrate your body after a night's rest and gently wakes up your digestive system. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the natural acidity of lemon can help break down food in your stomach and set the tone for smoother digestion all day long. 2. Get moving early Incorporating a little light movement to your morning routine can do wonders for your gut. Whether it's a quick walk, a gentle yoga flow or a few minutes of stretching, getting your body moving can promote regularity. This small step not only supports gut health but also boosts energy levels throughout the day. 3. Take time to destress daily Chronic stress can affect your mood and therefore disrupt your gut microbiome. Set aside a few minutes each day to unwind with a calming ritual, like deep breathing, journaling or sipping a cup of herbal tea. These simple stress-reducing habits can help lower cortisol levels, which in turn supports a more balanced and resilient digestive system. 4. Be consistent with mealtime Your digestive system thrives on routine. Another way to promote regularity is by sticking to consistent mealtimes, even on the weekends. Eating at roughly the same times each day helps "train" your gut to expect and process food more efficiently, reducing uncomfortable symptoms like bloating and sluggishness. 5. Give your body time to digest Blatner also advises that staying upright after meals is key to avoiding indigestion, especially if you're prone to issues like Acid Reflux. Lying down too soon after having a meal can interfere with your body's natural digestive flow. Try to allow for a few hours between your last meal and bedtime to support better digestion and sleep. 6. Make smart, balanced meal choices What you eat plays a major role in how your gut feels. Blatner recommends focusing on balanced meals that are rich in protein, fiber and a variety of nutrients to keep energy levels stable and digestion running smoothly. Recipes like this Superfood Egg Sandwich from Eggland's Best are packed with gut-friendly ingredients like Greek yogurt, spinach and seeds, and can be enjoyed at any time of day. Eggland's Best eggs contain more than double the Omega-3s compared to ordinary eggs, which can be beneficial for reducing inflammation in the gut and promoting a balanced gut environment. Eggland's Best eggs also contain six times more Vitamin D compared to ordinary eggs, which helps boost your body's immunity and helps fight off harmful bacteria. Superfood Egg Sandwich Prep time 15 minutes Cook time 10 minutes Yield 2 servings Ingredients • 4 Eggland's Best Organic Eggs, large • 2 Tablespoons of Mayonnaise substitute (1/4 cup Greek Yogurt, 1 Teaspoon of Dijon Mustard, pinch of Salt, Pepper to taste) • 4 Slices of Grain Bread (for example, Wheat, Spelt and Rye Bread) • 1 packed Cup of Raw Baby Spinach Leaves, Arugula, Cucumbers and Microgreens • 2 Teaspoons of Mixed Seeds (for example, a mixture of Chia, Pumpkin, Sunflower and Sesame Seeds) • 1 Small Avocado, sliced Preparation • Bring Eggs to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes. • Drain and cool, then peel and chop. • Add Greek Yogurt, Dijon Mustard, Salt and Pepper and mix. • Add sliced Cucumbers, Avocado, Spinach and Arugula. • Disclaimer: greens to be thoroughly washed before consuming. • Top with Egg Mixture and add Seeds. Then add Avocado and Microgreens. • Build a sandwich and repeat! Slice and serve. With these tips and this tasty recipe, you can help to start off your autumn routine feeling more energetic and ready to face each day. To find Eggland's Best eggs near you, plus more recipe inspiration, visit: www.EgglandsBest.com . Previous Next

Adopt a Catch Basin: Join The City of Hollywood to Help Control Flooding Thu Jun 08 2023 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Charlotte & Julia Krass: Sunny Isles Beach Community Spotlight Tue Sep 19 2023 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Puerto Rican Flavors: A Chocolate, Wine And A Lively Ladies Night August 1, 2024 Share Arc Culinary presents three distinct culinary experiences in August featuring the tropical flavors of Puerto Rico, a chocolate and wine event and a lively ladies night full of tapas, music and drinks at the State-Of-The-Art Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen in Sunrise. Proceeds from ticket sales support Arc Broward’s mission of providing opportunities for Children and Adults with Disabilities and other Life Challenges to realize their full potential. “Arc Culinary’s talented chefs continue to impress guests with creative menus and expertly-prepared dishes that South Florida diners aren’t going to find anywhere else,” said Craig Zeleznik, Director of Culinary Enterprises. “Tickets have been selling out quickly for these unique dining experiences that are a fun night out for a good cause.” A burst of tropical Puerto Rican Flavors kicks off a four-course culinary journey on Friday, August 16th at 7:00 p.m., beginning with a Savory, Rich and Creamy Plantain Soup; mouthwatering Sweet Plantain Lasagna featuring layers of Sweet Plantains, Mascarpone Cheese, Sofrito-Marinated Ground Beef and a Manchego Bechamel Sauce; Carne Frita Encebollada, a dish of Fried Pork Chunks with Pickled Onion Escabeche served over Mamposteao Rice; and a dreamy Flan De Queso with Pink Peppercorn-Infused Caramel to finish the meal. Tickets are $99 for the chef’s table or $89 for communal seating and include gratuity and alcoholic beverages. Chocolate lovers won’t want to miss the Sip & Dip chocolate and wine pairing class on Saturday, August 24th at 4:00 pm. Guests will enjoy sipping wine while dipping sweet and savory treats in Milk, Dark and White Chocolates, including Potato Chips, Cookies, Marshmallows, Pretzels and more. At the end of the session, guests will be able to package their treats to bring home for sharing or savoring. Tickets are $60. It’s Ladies Night Out on Friday, August 30th at 7:00 p.m., and time to enjoy a lively evening of wine and cocktails, tasty tapas, music, shopping and networking while supporting a great cause. A DJ will be spinning tunes while guests eat, drink, mingle and shop from local vendors selling handbags, candles, jewelry, clothing, lingerie, chocolates and more. Tickets are $55. Arc Culinary's Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen offers a blend of mid-century classic and modern elegance, featuring a Chef’s Table, refined décor, and an outdoor patio. Beyond Chef Experiences, the catering venue hosts private cooking classes, corporate meetings and events, bridal and baby showers, rehearsal dinners, small weddings and more for seated guests up to 49 and buffet or cocktail-style events up to 125 guests, and provides full-service off-site catering. Arc Culinary and Arc Educates are revenue-generating social enterprises of Arc Broward that directly support programming for 1,200 Children and Adults with Disabilities. Chef Experiences are sponsored by Amazon. The Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen at Arc Culinary is located at 10250 Northwest 53rd Street, Sunrise, Florida 33351. For tickets and more information, please visit: https://arcculinary.com/chef-experience-dinners/ - Or call: (954) 299-7515. < Previous News Next News >