Sleigh The Scammers - AI-Powered Travel Scams To Watch Out For This Christmas Holiday December 12, 2024 Share Thanks to AI, scammers no longer need to be tech experts to create convincing websites that mimic legitimate travel booking platforms. Often advertising irresistible prices for flights and accommodations, these sites lure travelers with offers that seem too good to miss. Fraudsters also often play on urgency, using phrases like “limited-time sale” or “only 1 left” to push consumers into making quick decisions. Once you input your details, scammers can steal your personal and financial information, leaving you with a ticket to nowhere and out of pocket. Protect yourself this holiday by being extra vigilant when booking travel online. Watch out for suspicious URLs, small spelling errors or anything that feels off about the website's design or offers. Double-check through official channels and read verified reviews before submitting your personal information. As a rule of thumb, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. AI chatbots offering fake travel deals AI-powered chatbots can be used by scammers to impersonate customer service representatives, offering huge discounts on flights, hotels, or holiday packages. These bots may ask for sensitive personal information or prompt users to pay upfront for non-existent trips. To avoid falling victim, verify any deals or offers you find online through official travel websites and avoid providing payment information through unfamiliar channels. If something feels too rushed, it's a red flag. Double-check all details and confirm through official customer service numbers or emails before finalizing any travel booking. Phishing emails and text messages One in five people click on AI-generated phishing emails, with a shocking 65% tricked into revealing personal information through input fields on websites linked in those emails. Scammers are using AI to craft highly convincing phishing content disguised as legitimate companies. Imagine receiving a text or email claiming your flight is canceled, and to avoid losing your reservation, you must click a link and enter your payment details immediately. The pressure to act quickly could lead you to inadvertently put your financial information into the hands of fraudsters. To stay safe this holiday season, never click on suspicious links or provide sensitive information through unsolicited emails or texts. Always check the sender’s email address, and be cautious of any communication that asks for personal details. If in doubt, contact the airline, hotel, or travel agency directly. AI-generated holiday reviews Fake AI-generated airline reviews have skyrocketed by an eye-popping 189%, while Tripadvisor alone flagged a record 2 million reviews as fake on its platform last year. With the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, scammers can now generate hundreds of seemingly genuine, glowing reviews in minutes, making it harder for travelers to distinguish between real and fraudulent content. To avoid being duped, cross-check reviews across multiple sources and don’t rely solely on reviews from travel booking websites. Instead, check independent review platforms and Social Media for additional feedback. Pay attention to patterns - if a place has an unusually high number of extremely positive reviews posted in a short period of time, it's likely a red flag that they've been generated by AI or planted by scammers. Authentic reviews tend to be more balanced, including both positive and constructive feedback. Fake travel itineraries and AI-generated images While many travelers nowadays use AI to help plan their trips, scammers are also taking advantage of this technology to create professional-looking itineraries designed to deceive. These fake itineraries often feature attractive holiday packages that promise an unforgettable vacation at an unbeatable price, with AI-generated images used to promote false activities, making everything seem enticing. Once you send a deposit or full payment, you might find that your dream holiday doesn't exist at all! To steer clear of sneaky fraudsters, stay alert when presented with offers that seem too good to be true and verify the source. AI-generated itineraries may appear polished, but they often contain subtle inconsistencies. Check for missing or mismatched details and examine the photos closely - AI-generated images can have imperfections like unnatural lighting or blurry areas. Christoph C. Cemper, Founder of AIPRM provides expert commentary on identifying AI scams when booking holidays online, as well as what to do if you think you have fallen victim to an AI scam: “I believe that a (false sense) of urgency, no matter how well explained (using Generative AI) is the top red flag for any kind of scams, including those for booking trips and holidays. Nowadays, nearly anything can be faked with AI so if it is ‘too’ well written, ‘too’ good to be true in the offer, or ‘too nice’ in pictures, then I would be especially careful. The most common form of AI scam is a phishing ‘offer,’ that lures the user into providing their personal or payment details too soon/too early based on vague promises that seem too good to resist. Such impulse actions are used to harvest the data as quickly as possible, without much to do once the data is revealed. I know of cases where the legal and police systems were busy for months due to an identity theft incident where the victim barely remembers engaging with. If you think you have fallen victim to a scam, as painful as it is, any kind of revealed information needs to be rendered useless. You can hardly move to another place, so fake ecommerce orders can still happen, but locking down your credit card is the first and most simple thing to do. Contacting your bank as soon as possible is essential. While reporting the incident to the police or a cyber-crime unit is recommended, it’s worth noting that these reports often result in education for the victim rather than immediate resolution.” < Previous News Next News >

Harold Solomon Will Navigate You Through The Quandaries of Medicare PROFILES May 2021 May 15, 2021 Share Harold Solomon, principal of The Solomon Insurance Group in Fort Lauderdale, is the founder of The Medicare Enrollment Center, a specialty service that guides seniors through the confusion of making healthcare decisions with Medicare. Harold Solomon says, “When it comes to making decisions about health insurance when you are 65 or older, don’t worry. We are here to help.” Harold Solomon, principal of The Solomon Insurance Group in Fort Lauderdale, is the founder of The Medicare Enrollment Center, a specialty service that guides seniors through the confusion of making healthcare decisions with Medicare. Having always been in service industries, Solomon says he began to hear horror stories about decisions involved with making Medicare choices and the limited, sometimes discourteous, assistance from Medicare 800 numbers. That’s when he decided this was a population he would like to help. “When the average person is about to turn 65, he or she begins to research how to enroll in the Medicare program,“ says Solomon. “That’s where the confusion begins as the person is confronted with a myriad of plans and options that require reviewing, comparing and deciding which plan is the best for them.” So, they call a Medicare 800 number. They reach a voice who does not know anything about them, nor their current medical situation or future needs. Likewise, the caller does not know who that person is and probably would have difficulty finding that same individual again. Aside from that, there is no likely follow-up to the caller from the insurance side, even after enrollment. Thinking as to how Harold could help others, he developed a process to accomplish his mission: 1) LISTEN -The first important thing is to listen. Harold asks questions to determine the kind of Medicare health coverage, will meet the client needs. 2) EXPLAIN – Carefully explain all of the best options for each individual. 3) ENROLL - Once decided on the best of the options, Harold explains the enrollment process and enrolls his client, simplifying this burdensome process. Once you become a client, Harold Solomon and his team will stay with you. He will always be available for your questions and will periodically check in with you. He will keep you abreast of any modifications, new benefits or planned policy or premium changes and will work in your best interest at all times. In other words, he and his team will always act proactively on your behalf. Harold Solomon is well-qualified to do this. He is a licensed Medicare specialist. That means he has taken a series of programs and examinations that each require their own certification until the agent can proceed to the next step. It begins with exams for state licensure to sell health insurance. The next step is to pass two state-mandated courses (Preventing Medicare Fraud and General Compliance with Fraud,Waste & Abuse), in order to be certified by AHIP (American Health Insurance Plans). Then the agent must get certified in Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance. Following that, the agent must contract with a Medicare wholesaler, and follow further by contracting with multiple other Medicare companies. And, it does not stop there, since certifications must be renewed every year with updated courses. Harold Solomon is licensed in 36 states throughout the country and because Medicare often differs from state to state, sometimes even from county to county, The Solomon Insurance Group has a host of carefully chosen agents in those states to deliver the same personalized service. Mr. Solomon is available to meet with social, condo or business groups to explain the latest options, including the various Medicare supplemental programs that can provide 100% healthcare coverage for the rest of a client’s life. The team at the Solomon Insurance Group will listen to you and provide a health insurance evaluation at no cost. They will review all coverage options available in your area, across all 50 states. A variety of plan options exist for every health care need and it takes someone with total understanding of them to recommend what will be best for you. “My goal is to make Medicare simple and easy to understand,” says Solomon, “and to help our clients make the best choice for their health coverage.” Harold says the the most frequently asked questions are: • Should I get Medicare supplemental • 100% coverage or an Advantage Plan? • How do I know what coverage is best for me? • Does Medicare cover Long Term Care? • Does Medicare cover dental, vision and hearing? • What if I have a family history of cancer, • heart attack or stroke? • Does Medicare cover final life expenses? • Can I get home care as I get older? • Will it cover extensive cancer treatments? • What if I get disabled? What does Medicare cover? • Who can I trust to guide me as I begin to • lose my decision capabilities? Harold Solomon acts in a fiduciary capacity. That means he is bound ethically to act in your best interests. You will know you have the best coverage, at the best price. We want our Medicare clients to enjoy life, not worry about their Medicare health coverage. In addition to Medicare supplemental insurance and Medicare Advantage plans, the Solomon Insurance Group can offer further protection plans that include Hospital indemnity Insurance, Long-term Care Insurance, Heart Attack & Stroke Coverage, Dental, Vision & Hearing Benefit Plans, Cancer Lump Sum Benefits, and Final expense coverage. The Solomon Insurance Group is highly recommended by All Star Public Adjusters. The Solomon Insurance Group 3063 Red Mangrove Lane Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33312 888-886-8360 http:/thesolomoninsurancegroup.com < Previous News Next News >

Savor the Flavors and Sounds at Taste of Dania Beach December 25, 2024 Share The City of Dania Beach presents Dania After Dark’s Taste of Dania Beach, on Saturday, January 11th, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., at City Hall Plaza, 100 West Dania Beach Boulevard, Dania Beach, Florida 33004. The event features live music, games, contests, Little Chefs Cooking Station, face painters, food trucks, and most of all – an exclusive access to local food and beverage vendors with the purchase of a “Tasting Experience” wristband. “Join us for an evening of delicious food, fantastic music, and unforgettable fun,” said Cassi Waren, Director, Parks and Recreation, City of Dania Beach. Elevate your Taste of Dania Beach experience with the exclusive “Tasting Experience” general or VIP wristband. This is your all-access pass to savor and sample an eclectic array of bite-sized delights from over a dozen local establishments, showcasing the best of our culinary community. It also includes a commemorative gift. Local restaurants confirmed include Lucky Fish, Steak & Reddle, 3 Sons Brewing Co., Anthony's Clam House & Grill, Rodizio, Tommy Bahama and many more to come. On stage will be live performances by country-western artist Sheyna Gee and a popular tribute band (TBA). Free general event admission and parking. Complimentary shuttles to and from the Casino at Dania Beach. A ticketed wristband is required for access to the “Tasting Experience.” General Admission (early bird, $35++) Includes: • Unlimited Food Samples: Savor as many tastes as you like from our lineup of local favorites and culinary innovators. • Commemorative Gift: Take home a special keepsake to remember your “Taste of Dania Beach” experience. VIP Admission (early bird, $50++) Includes: • All General Admission Perks: Enjoy unlimited food samples and a commemorative gift. • Exclusive VIP Tent Access: Relax in the VIP tent with limited seating, where you’ll enjoy access to exclusive beverages and specialty food samples only available to VIPs. • Private AC Restroom Trailer: Skip the crowds with access to an air-conditioned restroom trailer for added comfort. For tickets and more information on Taste of Dania Beach, visit: www.TasteOfDaniaBeach.com . Purchase VIP or General Sampling Tickets (Prices increase after Dec. 27, 2024) Dania Beach’s Dania After Dark event series includes unique special event experiences monthly through April 2025. Visit: www.daniabeachfl.gov/daniaafterdark for other event listings. < Previous News Next News >

Protect Our Kids From AI: We Must Stop Predators From Using AI to Exploit Children Fri Feb 23 2024 17:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hurricane Preparedness Tips For Aventura Residents: How To Prepare & Remain Safe During Tropical Storms, Weather Threats, And More Wed May 15 2024 16:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

New Community Court Launched In The City Of Hollywood Thu Apr 25 2024 16:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Look Out For The Menorah Cars: May Our Days Be Filled With Light, Warmth And Joy Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil December 22, 2022 Share You’ve probably seen Menorahs going up all around town. This year you will also see a lot more Car Menorahs, proudly displayed on the roofs of private vehicles throughout Florida and beyond. That’s because Chanukah is coming and the Mitzvah on the holiday of lights is to share the light. What better place to share that, than with those we share the roads with? Chanukah is known for the miracle of the Menorah that took place in the Temple, but the holiday was called Chanukah from the word Chanukah Habayit (lit Dedication of House), because it was the rededication of the Temple, after being occupied by the Greeks. Chanukah also comes from the word Chinuch, which means education. During this holiday we are supposed to gather our families together and educate our children and ourselves about the miracles done for us on a constant basis. Together with recalling the original Chanukah miracles, we remind our families about the personal family stories that we each have, that brought us to where we are today. Chanukah (pronounced by some who have a hard time with the ch as Hanukkah or Hanuka), begins this year on the evening of Sunday, December 18th, 2022 and concludes 8 days later on the evening of Monday, December 26th, 2022. It recalls the victory of a militarily weak Jewish people who defeated the Syrian Greeks who had overrun ancient Israel and sought to impose restrictions on the Jewish way of life and prohibit religious freedom. They also desecrated and defiled the Temple and the oils prepared for the lighting of the Menorah, which was part of the daily service. Upon recapturing the Temple only one jar of undefiled oil was found, enough to burn only one day, but it lasted miraculously for eight. In commemoration, Jews celebrate Chanukah for eight days by lighting an eight-branched candelabrum known as a Menorah. Today, people of all faiths consider the holiday a symbol and message of the triumph of freedom over oppression, of spirit over matter, of light over darkness. Additional information about the holiday is available at: https://www.chabadchayil.org/holidays/default_cdo/jewish/holidays.htm This year’s Menorah Lighting is done with the recognition of the crucial need for a message of hope during a time that is so difficult for so many. The Menorah serves as a symbol of light and hope for us today amidst the economic and geopolitical challenges felt throughout the world, as it did for generations before us. The flames of the Menorah shine out into the night, reminding us that even when confronted with much darkness, a tiny light can dispel it all. An additional act of goodness and kindness, another act of light, can make all the difference. Uniquely, at the core of Chanukah’s observance is sharing the light with others who may not be experiencing it. Celebrations and Chanukah events of all sorts will be taking place in nearly every city of Florida, mostly organized by local Chabads. Locally we will have a free family-friendly event on Sunday, December 18th, 2022 beginning at 3:00 p.m. with an Obstacle Course, Laser Tag, Bounce House, Pony Rides, a Family Train and other fun activities, followed by the Menorah Lighting, warm words from our politicians and a special holiday show at 5:00 p.m.. There will also be a food court, holiday boutique, with music and lots of surprises throughout the day. As a family man who is deeply involved in the community, I must say that there is no better way to spend that Sunday. Adults and children alike, are welcomed to join the many dignitaries and community leaders for an enjoyable and a meaningfully fun time for everyone. To ensure everyone is safe, the day’s events will all take place outdoors, with enough room for participants to be socially distanced. The event will also be broadcasted live via: JewishFlorida.news so that anyone who can’t make it to the actual event, can still share in the celebration from the safety of their home. This year, Chabad-organized Menorah Parades will see over 7,000 Chanukah Menorah-topped cars hit the road, bringing the Chanukah message of hope and joy through the city and into residential neighborhoods, allowing families to safely share the joy and light of Chanukah with pride. Chabad centers worldwide have prepared over 32 million Chanukah Candles, more than 700,000 Menorah Kits and 2.5 million holiday guides in 17 languages. Throughout the State of Florida, Chabad will be organizing scores of giant menorah displays of all sorts, including a grand celebration with the Miami Heat on Tuesday, December 20th, 2022 a huge concert at Hard Rock and scores of others. To find a local event here in Florida, or anywhere throughout the world, visit Chabad’s international Chanukah Event Directory at: ChabadChayil.org/Chanukah or a Local Directory at: JewishFlorida.news/events. Large display Menorahs are available at many online sources and can still get to you in time for the holiday. If you need a Menorah or Candles for yourself, or need any help celebrating the holiday or finding a large Menorah to display at your place of work, please call your local Chabad or my office at: (305) 770-1919. My favorite are the new LED ones which are available at: https://lightupmenorah.com/shop/menorah?Wfyd3h=858d88c651f2301eaaf134bb176df130 We can also help you plan your own Chanukah event, Menorah lighting or Latke party. We wish you and your family a very Happy Chaunkah! May our days be filled with light, warmth, joy, positive energy and always increasing, just like the Menorah lights that increase with each day! To join us for the beautiful Annual Chanukah Event or to help cover the cost, call: (305) 770-1919. Or visit: https://www.chabadchayil.org/templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/5288501/jewish/Chanukah.htm About the Author Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, Florida. They are the founders of CHAP - an Afterschool 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 >

A World Of Enchantment And Wonder: "The Bubble Artist" Kristar From America's Got Talent Tue Aug 15 2023 16:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Sip, Savor, And Support A Healthier Future - Greater Fort Lauderdale’s Longest-Running Charitable Wine And Food Festival Is This Month By Merilee Kern, MBA Apr 23, 2026 “Cheers To 30 Years” Is More Than A Celebratory Tagline For The Las Olas Wine And Food Festival. It Is A Reflection Of Three Decades Of Culinary Excellence, Community Connection, And Philanthropic Impact That Continues To Define One Of South Florida’s Most Anticipated Annual Events. As The Festival Returns On Friday, April 24th, 2026, Las Olas Boulevard Will Once Again Transform Into What Organizers Describe As A “Culinary Playground,” Spanning Southeast 6th Avenue Through Southeast 11th Avenue And Delivering A Fully Immersive Tasting Experience From 7:30 To 10:30 p.m., With VIP Access Beginning At 5:30 p.m. Presented by the American Lung Association, the event has become “Greater Fort Lauderdale’s longest-running charitable wine and food festival,” bringing together food, wine, culture, and purpose in a single, high-energy evening. For 30 years, the community has gathered to “sip, savor, and support a healthier future,” with 100 percent of proceeds benefiting lung health programs, advocacy, and research. Below are ten expansive reasons why this year’s milestone celebration stands out as a must-attend experience. 1. A Pearl Anniversary Celebration Rooted In Legacy The 30th Anniversary marks what organizers call “three decades of unforgettable moments in support of a meaningful cause.” This milestone is not simply commemorative. It is experiential. The event leans into its origins with a 1990's-themed celebration that “transports guests back to 1996,” blending nostalgia with a modern, elevated execution that reflects how the festival has evolved. 2. A Boulevard Transformed Into A Culinary Playground For one extraordinary night, Las Olas Boulevard becomes a fully curated event space. Guests move through multiple tasting pavilions, lounges, and activations that create a seamless flow of experiences. The design allows for “all the sips, samples, mixing, and mingling one can do,” reinforcing the festival’s reputation for accessibility and abundance. 3. More Than 40 Restaurants Delivering Signature And New Creations The culinary backbone of the event features “more than 40 premier restaurants from the Greater Fort Lauderdale area hosting pop-up stations along the boulevard.” This lineup blends established favorites and emerging names, including Timpano, Casa Sensei, Ocean Prime, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Sixty Vines, American Social, RA Sushi, Mastro’s Ocean Club, La Mexicana Taco Bar, Wilder, and The Federal. Each brings a distinct flavor profile, ensuring that no two bites feel the same. 4. A Global Wine And Spirits Portfolio Featuring 200+ Selections Wine lovers are invited to “sip their way through exclusive pours, wines from around the world, and limited release bottles,” with more than 200 domestic and international wines and spirits featured across the festival. Curated by Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, the offerings include premium labels and widely recognized brands, creating a tasting experience that spans regions, styles, and price points. 5. The Premium Wine Garden Elevates The Experience The Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits Premium Wine Garden, hosted by Ombelle Fort Lauderdale, returns as a focal point for elevated tasting. Guests enjoy “exclusive pours” alongside curated bites from Shooters Waterfront, creating a refined environment for deeper exploration of premium wines. 6. VIP Access That Begins Before The Festival Opens The Grand Cru VIP ticket transforms the evening into a layered, multi-phase experience. It begins with a “VIP Kick-Off Pre-Party at the Riverside Hotel from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.,” featuring premium bites, cocktails, and a waterfront setting presented by Florida Power and Light and Amerant Bank. VIP guests also receive early entry to the festival, gaining access to tasting pavilions 30 minutes before general admission. 7. Exclusive VIP Wine Garden Access And Premium Tastings From 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., VIP guests enjoy private access to the Premium Wine Garden, where they can “sip, sample, and indulge in premium wines before anyone else.” Past participating wineries have included Caymus Vineyards, Terlato Wine Group, Chateau Ste. Michelle, and Freixenet Mionetto, reinforcing the elevated nature of this experience. 8. A 90s-Themed VIP Lounge That Brings The Energy New for 2026, the VIP experience introduces a “throwback-themed oasis celebrating the festival’s roots in 1996,” complete with specialty cocktails such as Manhattans, Cosmos, and Appletinis, along with a nostalgic soundtrack designed to keep “the energy high and the dance floor moving.” The lounge also offers dedicated seating, creating a balance between high-energy entertainment and relaxed social space. 9. Beverage Diversity Beyond Wine In addition to wine, the festival showcases a wide range of spirits and beer offerings. Guests can explore selections including Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Aperol, Espolon Tequila, Jim Beam, and Jameson Irish Whiskey, along with craft beer participants such as Stella Artois, Kona, Goose Island, and Wicked Weed. Additional spirit brands such as Aspen Vodka, Flecha Azul Tequila, Copalli Rum, and WhistlePig Whiskey further expand the tasting experience. 10. A Purpose-Driven Event With Community Impact At its core, the festival remains grounded in its mission. “100% of proceeds benefit the lifesaving mission of the American Lung Association,” supporting efforts to improve lung health, advance research, and advocate for clean air. Organizers underscore the importance of this mission with a simple reminder that resonates throughout the event. “If you can’t breathe, nothing else matters.” Beyond the tastings, the Las Olas Wine and Food Festival reflects a broader narrative of community, culture, and connection. It is a place where local businesses, culinary talent, and global beverage brands converge in a setting that feels both celebratory and purposeful. From its early beginnings in 1996 to its current status as a premier culinary event, the festival has consistently evolved while maintaining its core identity. This year’s 30th Anniversary edition captures that evolution in full, delivering an experience that is as dynamic as it is meaningful. For attendees, the takeaway is clear. This is not simply a night of food and wine. It is a curated journey through flavor, culture, and community impact, set against one of South Florida’s most iconic backdrops. And for those who return year after year, it is also a reminder of why this event continues to matter. Entrepreneur Leadership Network Member Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. As Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee is a prolific business, lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker. She keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at: www.TheLuxeList.com / Instagram: www.Instagram.com/MerileeKern / X: http://www.X.com/MerileeKern / Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial / LinkedIn" www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern . *Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way. All images Courtesy of Hyatt Previous Next

The Original Tribute From London's West End Fri Jan 14 2022 05:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Flexcation (Family Features) May 20, 2021 Share COVID-19 has challenged families in different ways, many had to cancel or reschedule trips during the Pandemic due to travel restrictions. COVID-19 has challenged families in different ways, many had to cancel or reschedule trips during the Pandemic due to travel restrictions, which meant missing out on quality time with loved ones, the mental health and self-care benefits of going on vacation. Although 61% of families had a trip canceled due to the Pandemic in 2020, travel is still top of mind as 82% of families already have travel plans in mind for 2021, according to the 2021 Vrbo Trend Report. The report, which includes vacation rental marketplace data as well as survey data from family travelers, it also revealed some travel habits that arose during the Pandemic, that are likely to remain popular, this year. "Let's face it, the Pandemic makes it tough to predict what travel will look like in 2021," said Melanie Fish, Vrbo's travel expert. "That's why we combined search and demand trends with a first-of-its-kind traveler survey of U.S. families. The combination gives us the most accurate picture possible of the plans that families are making." Consider these Pandemic-Era Trends, as you make your vacation plans moving forward: Staying in the Driver's Seat With travel restrictions and social distancing guidelines in place throughout much of 2020, many families opted to avoid flying and visiting crowded places by instead jumping in the car to hit the open road. This trend is likely to continue in 2021 with 59% of families saying that they are more likely to drive instead of fly on their next trip. A change of scenery can be refreshing and motivating after staring at the same four walls in your home, so consider taking a road trip and exploring a new destination, even if it's just down the road from home. Mixing Work and Play Many people were forced to adapt to working from home or facilitating e-learning for their children due to COVID-19. While turning homes into makeshift offices or classrooms wasn't an easy task for many families, the schedules and flexibility provided by the remote setup, allowed for the rise of the "flexcation" - mixing vacation time with virtual work and school. In fact, 1 in 3 families surveyed, said they were able to travel because they were working from home, 52% of those who took a flexcation during the Pandemic, found the experience to be refreshing with 67%, saying, that they would do it again. Another benefit of flexcations is experiencing amenities you may not have access to at home. Consider some of Vrbo's most sought-after amenities and vacation spots when planning your next getaway: * Splash in the sun in Cape Coral, Florida where 92% of vacation rentals have pools. * Cook over an open fire in Sevierville, Tennessee, where barbecue grills are included at 87% of vacation homes. * Cozy up by the fire with a book and some hot chocolate in Steamboat Springs, Colorado where fireplaces are an amenity offered in 87% of vacation rentals. Seeking Wide Open Spaces Many travelers gravitate toward vacationing in peaceful and picturesque destinations, the open sky, fresh air and scenic views may be even more appealing amid the Pandemic. According to the report, 61% of U.S. families said they are more likely to visit an outdoorsy destination over an urban one, 54% are more likely to head to a national park than an amusement park. Find more ideas for planning your next vacation - or flexcation - along with the full Trend Report at: www.vrbo.com . < Previous News Next News >

Moses By Michele Lowe - After Unimaginable Tragedy, A Man Wrestles With Grief, Guilt And A Crisis Of Faith In This Mesmerizing One-Person Play Jewish Connection News Apr 23, 2026 The Adrienne Arsht Center For The Performing Arts Of Miami-Dade County (@arshtcenter) And Zoetic Stage (@zoeticstagemia) Are Proud To Present The Florida Premiere Of MOSES By Michele Lowe, An Uplifting Story Of Faith, Remorse And The Unbreakable Human Spirit. This Riveting, Intimate One-Person Production Stars Miami Native David Rosenberg And Runs In The Carnival Studio Theater From Saturday, April 30th, 2026 - Wednesday, May 17th, 2026. Tickets to Moses are $67-$73* and may be purchased now at: www.ArshtCenter.org . Or at the Arsht box office by calling: (305) 949-6722. For guests with accessibility needs, the Arsht provides accessible seating and complimentary assistive listening devices for all performances, along with sign language interpretation, open captioning, and audio description at select shows to ensure an inclusive experience for all guests. “Playwright Michele Lowe has written a magnificent tale of a man who loses everything and is set upon a journey of identity, forgiveness and hope. I know Moses will be a theatrical event bringing the community together by a tour de force performance balanced with empathy, pathos and humor,” said Zoetic Stage Artistic Director Stuart Meltzer. “Moses will close out Zoetic Stage's 16th Anniversary Season in a blaze of glory.” One night in the Bronx, Moses loses everyone and everything he loves. Filled with remorse, he begs God, “You forget about me, and I'll forget about you!” But God has other plans for Moses. This is a one-person play about love, faith and going it alone. David Rosenberg is thrilled to be back at Zoetic Stage, which produced his play Wicked Child in January of 2024. It received a Carbonell nomination for Outstanding New Work and is now published by Dramatists Play Service. As an actor, his theatre credits include Death of a Salesman (Broadway), Vladimir (Off-B’way: Manhattan Theatre Club), Bad Jews (GableStage), Empty Ride (The Old Globe), Mad Forest (Williamstown) and As You Like It (Chautauqua), among others. TV: The Good Fight, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Law & Order: SVU. Film: The Toast, People People. As a writer, his other plays includeWhat Else Is True? (ART/NY, Egg & Spoon), I Would Never Lie to You (Juilliard) and the post-Soviet musical extravaganza Absolutely!. He holds an MFA from Juilliard, a BFA from NYU, and a diploma from Miami Palmetto Senior High. *All programs, artists, ticket prices, availability, dates and times are subject to change without notice. Tickets shown include taxes and fees. Visit: www.ArshtCenter.org for up-to-date information. The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is made possible by the public support of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Council and the City of Miami Omni Community Redevelopment Agency, and the state of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Adrienne Arsht Center also receives generous support from individuals, corporations and local, state and national foundations. About the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County Since opening in 2006 in the heart of downtown, the Arsht proudly serves as the cultural pulse of Miami – the heart of magical live arts experiences that spark the imagination and connect people to one another. Whether on our stages or in your neighborhood, the Arsht is alive year-round with international artists, innovative programming from resident companies and local arts partners, free community events that reflect Miami’s unique identity and more than 100 culturally diverse and impactful learning experiences for 80,000 children every year. The Arsht, a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization, has been recognized as a leader in the Miami’s cultural transformation, producing more than 400 annual events that generate 11,500 local jobs and $125 Million in economic impact. The Arsht is home to a robust series of touring Broadway musicals, star-studded jazz and classical music concerts curated for South Florida, an award-winning Miami-based theater program and numerous historic and televised events. Free annual Arsht events, such as Gospel Fest Miami, Art + Mind Day, Heritage Fest and our LGBTQ+ Pride celebration bring together people from all corners of our community. For more information, visit: www.ArshtCenter.org . About Zoetic Stage Zoetic Stage was founded in 2010 to create fresh, bold interpretations of contemporary plays and musicals, and is dedicated to enhancing South Florida’s national artistic profile by producing regional premieres and developing new works to become part of the American stage repertoire. In 2020, Zoetic Stage was named the Best Theater Company by the Miami New Times. The theater has been nominated for an impressive 160 Carbonell Awards (of which 14 were for Best Production of the Year) and won 46, including six for Best New Work and four for Best Production of a Play or Musical. Zoetic Stage productions have received 48 Silver Palm Awards for Outstanding Achievement. Zoetic Stage is an Associate Member of the National New Play Network, a member of Theatre Communications Group and the South Florida Theater League. Visit: https://www.zoeticstage.org/ for more information. David Rosenberg - Photo by Mindy Tucker Previous Next