South Florida's Freedom Tax Center: Your Trusted Partner In Navigating The 2025 Tax Season - Open And Ready To Serve You South Florida Sun Times Jan 28, 2026 As The 2025 Tax Season Arrives, Individual And Businesses Across South Florida Are Once Again Facing An Increasingly Complex And Highly Scrutinized Tax Environment. With Continued IRS Enforcement Efforts, Expanded Reporting Requirements, Inflation-Based Adjustments, And Evolving Regulations Affecting Everything From Small Businesses To Cryptocurrency Investors, The Importance Of Working With A Knowledgeable And Reliable Tax Professional Has Never Been Greater. Fortunately, One Trusted Name Continues To Stand Out As A Pillar Of Expertise And Service In The Community, Lourdes & Jesus Abikarram And The Team At Freedom Tax Center. The Team at Freedom Tax Center are open and accepting clients for the 2025 tax season, Freedom Tax Center encourages taxpayers to file early to avoid penalties, reduce stress, and protect themselves from tax fraud and identity theft. Early filing remains one of the most effective strategies for minimizing errors, preventing refund delays, and staying ahead of any unexpected tax liabilities. With tax laws continuing to evolve, proactive planning and accurate preparation are essential. A Legacy of Trust and Experience Founded by the Abikarram family, Freedom Tax Center has earned a strong reputation for professionalism, integrity, and personalized service. Operating from Hallandale Beach, the firm has become a cornerstone of the local business community. In 2025, Lourdes & Jesus Abikarram and their team proudly celebrate more than three decades of service in Hallandale Beach, contributing to a combined 50 years of industry experience across the Freedom Tax organization. This depth of experience allows the Freedom Tax Center team to confidently handle even the most complex tax situations while maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and care when dealing with sensitive personal and financial information. Navigating New and Updated Tax Laws for 2025 The 2025 tax season brings several notable changes and adjustments that impact both individual and business taxpayers. Many tax provisions continue to be adjusted for inflation, affecting standard deductions, tax brackets, and contribution limits. Additionally, the IRS has increased its focus on enforcement, particularly in areas such as self-employment income, digital assets, foreign income, and business deductions. Certain pandemic-era tax benefits have fully expired, while others have reverted to pre-pandemic structures, making it especially important for taxpayers to understand how these changes affect their refunds or balances due. Credits related to dependents, education, and energy efficiency may also differ from prior years, and eligibility rules continue to evolve. Freedom Tax Center stays current with every federal and state tax update, ensuring that clients are fully compliant while taking advantage of every legal opportunity to reduce their tax burden. Comprehensive Tax Preparation for Individuals At the core of Freedom Tax Center’s services is expert preparation of individual tax returns. Their process begins with a thorough review of each client’s financial situation, income sources, and life changes that may affect their tax liability. Whether a client is a salaried employee, self-employed professional, investor, or retiree, the team works diligently to ensure accuracy and maximize allowable deductions and credits. They specialize in handling complex individual tax matters, including: • Self-employment and gig economy income • Rental properties and real estate investments • Multi-state filings • Capital gains and investment income • Retirement distributions and planning considerations With increased IRS reporting requirements and cross-checking systems in place for 2025, accuracy is more important than ever. Freedom Tax Center’s meticulous approach helps reduce the risk of audits, notices, and costly mistakes. Strategic Tax Planning and Year-Round Support Beyond tax preparation, Freedom Tax Center emphasizes proactive tax planning. Rather than treating taxes as a once-a-year obligation, their team works with clients throughout the year to develop strategies that align with their financial goals. By offering year-round consulting, Freedom Tax Center helps individuals and businesses anticipate tax liabilities, adjust withholding or estimated payments, and make informed decisions that reduce surprises at filing time. This forward-thinking approach is especially valuable in a tax environment where regulations continue to shift and enforcement is increasing. Specialized Business Tax Services For business owners, the 2025 tax season presents both opportunities and challenges. Freedom Tax Center provides tailored services for small businesses, partnerships, corporations, and entrepreneurs across a wide range of industries. Their business tax services include: • Business tax return preparation • Payroll tax compliance • Industry-specific deductions and credits • Guidance on entity structure and compliance • Support for startups and new business formation Freedom Tax Center helps business owners understand how changes in tax law affect deductions, depreciation rules, and reporting obligations. They also assist new businesses with entity selection and registration, helping entrepreneurs choose structures that support long-term growth and tax efficiency. Expertise in Cryptocurrency and Emerging Industries As IRS oversight of digital assets continues to expand, cryptocurrency taxation remains a major focus for the 2025 tax season. Freedom Tax Center offers specialized services for individuals and businesses involved in cryptocurrency mining, trading, staking, and long-term investing. Their team ensures accurate reporting of digital asset transactions and compliance with current IRS guidance, helping clients avoid costly penalties. Similarly, Freedom Tax Center continues to support businesses operating in the cannabis and CBD industries. With complex federal and state tax rules still governing this sector, professional guidance is essential. Their expertise helps cannabis-related businesses establish compliant accounting practices and navigate industry-specific tax limitations. ITIN Applications and International Tax Support Freedom Tax Center remains a trusted resource for ITIN (Individual Tax Identification Number) applications and renewals. This service is crucial for individuals without a Social Security number who have U.S. tax filing requirements, including foreign investors and non-resident taxpayers. Their experience ensures the process is handled efficiently and correctly, minimizing delays and complications. Tax Resolution and IRS Representation For clients facing IRS challenges, Freedom Tax Center’s sister company, Freedom Tax Resolution, provides experienced representation and advocacy. Their services include assistance with tax liens, levies, wage garnishments, installment agreements, and offers in compromise. What sets Freedom Tax Resolution apart is their commitment to transparency and communication. Clients are kept informed at every step, with clear explanations and realistic expectations, helping reduce the stress often associated with IRS disputes. Year-Round Bookkeeping and Accounting Services Unlike seasonal tax operations, Freedom Tax Center offers year-round bookkeeping and accounting services. These services help businesses maintain accurate financial records, track expenses, and stay prepared for audits and tax filings. Organized financial records not only simplify tax season but also support better decision-making throughout the year. A Trusted Partner for the 2025 Tax Season and Beyond In an era of constant regulatory change and heightened enforcement, Freedom Tax Center continues to be a reliable partner for individuals and businesses seeking professionalism, accuracy, and peace of mind. Their comprehensive services, specialized expertise, and long-standing commitment to the community make them a premier choice for tax preparation, planning, and resolution. For more information or to schedule an appointment for the 2025 tax season, visit Freedom Tax Center’s website or call: (954) 454-2080. Their office is conveniently located at 600 West Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Suite#: 4, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. Lourdes & Jesus Abikarram (Freedom Tax Center), Norma English (CEO/Executive Director Hallandale Beach Chamber) Lourdes & Jesus Abikarram (Freedom Tax Center) along with Leo Soto. Stephanie Grobstein (Angels On The Ocean Homecare), Jesus & Lourdes Abikarram (Freedom Tax Center) A special thank you to Commissioner Ashira Mohammed of the City of Pembroke Park & guests (Left) for stopping by and spending time with the members, Jesus Abikarram (Freedom Tax Center) & Norma English (CEO/Executive Director Hallandale Beach Chamber - on Right) Georgia Winfield (Rotary Club), Lourdes Abikarram (Freedom Tax Center), Marushka Jilek (Rotary Club) Marushka Jilek (Rotary Club), Dr. Claudia Valderrama (Past President Rotary Club Hallandale Beach-Aventura), Jesus Abikarram (Freedom Tax Center), Georgia Winfield (Rotary Club), Lourdes Abikarram (Freedom Tax Center) Lourdes & Jesus Abikarram along with their daughter Anais Abikarram (Freedom Tax Center) Chamber guests with Norma English (CEO/Executive Director Hallandale Beach Chamber), and Jesus Abikarram (Freedom Tax Center - Right) “This marks a 10-year tradition of partnership, generosity, and commitment to the Chamber - and that kind of consistency does not go unnoticed.” Norma English (CEO/Executive Director Hallandale Beach Chamber) What a great way to kick off the year - the Hallandale Beach Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours was a wonderful success. The Team at Freedom Tax Center once again served as the host sponsor of the Hallandale Beach Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours. What A Great Way To Kick Off The Year! Last week's Hallandale Beach Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours was a wonderful success—filled with meaningful connections, great conversations, and the energy that reminds me why this business community is so special. Immense gratitude to Jesus Abikarram, EA, CAA, NTPI Fellow, Amazon Best Seller with Freedom Tax for once again serving as the host sponsor. This marks a 10-year tradition of partnership, generosity, and commitment to the Chamber—and that kind of consistency does not go unnoticed. #BusinessAfterHours #ChamberStrong #CommunityMatters #Grateful #PartnershipsThatLast #HallandaleBeachChamber #PembrokePark Previous Next

Planning For A Brighter Future: Hallandale Beach Charter Review Is Making Progressive Changes Thu Apr 28 2022 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Hub At Temple Beth Am - It's A Place Where Children Learn, Teens Connect, Adults Engage, And Families Grow Together Jewish Connection News Nov 20, 2025 Step Onto The Vibrant Campus Of Temple Beth Am, And You’ll Immediately Sense Something New, Something Extraordinary. At The Heart Of It All Is The Hub – A Dynamic, State-Of-The-Art Addition That Redefines What It Means To Build Jewish Community In The 21st Century. Designed With Intention, Innovation, And Inclusivity, The Hub Is More Than A Space – It’s An Experience. From cultural events and social gatherings to recreation and learning, The Hub brings together the essence of Temple Beth Am’s mission: to connect, inspire, and support Jewish life at every stage and age. Walk through The Hub, and you’ll find a seamless blend of functionality and warmth. Inside the Cultural & Activity Center, there’s truly something for everyone. One of the most exciting aspects of The Hub is the Outdoor Cultural Life Center, home to Temple Beth Am’s own Ben Yehuda Street and Zion Square. This space is purpose-built for festivals, lifecycle events, and cultural programming under the South Florida sky. It’s a place where Jewish culture lives and breathes through music, art, celebration, and community interaction. The Performing Arts Center and Chapel is a true gem of The Hub. With flexible seating for up to 550 attendees, this space is uniquely designed to support both the spiritual and cultural life of the congregation. It easily converts into a more intimate chapel setting for 300, allowing for a wide range of uses—from concerts and plays to prayer services and life cycle events. What makes The Hub truly special is not just its facilities, but the spirit it fosters. It’s a place where children learn, teens connect, adults engage, and families grow together. Whether you’re attending a lecture in the reading room, cheering your child on during a basketball game, catching up with a friend over coffee, or celebrating a lifecycle milestone under the stars—it all happens at The Hub. Located at The Janet z”l and Richard Yulman Campus, The Hub is the new center of gravity for Temple Beth Am. It reflects the synagogue’s deep commitment to providing spaces that serve the present while investing in the future of Jewish communal life. Come experience The Hub for yourself. There’s something here for everyone—and everything here is for you. Check out the What's Happening at The Hub: Comedy at the Hub: Jared Fried Meet Us At The Hub For A Night Out With Comedian Jared Freid! The Table For One Tour is the follow up to Freid’s successful The Family Business Tour. Instead of traveling with his parents on this one, Jared is going at it alone… in Europe. This hour of standup is about the highlights and lowlights of traveling when you’re single and 40. Explaining the reasons you’re traveling alone to your parents. Telling your married friends it’s not the wild time they imagine. And figuring out why they don’t put enough ice in your drink abroad. This hour is for everyone. Millennials. Parents of the Millennials. And the Gen Z people who want a story from the ghost of a single future. Jared Freid is a stand-up comedian and podcaster based out of New York City. His most recent stand up special, “37 & Single” premiered on Netflix in 2023 to rave reviews and rose to the Top 10 most watched TV in the US and Canada on Netflix. In addition, The New York Times touted “In the crowded field of dating jokes, Jared Freid…distinguishes himself…”. With a strong focus on dating and relationships, Jared’s comedy reflects the ordinary daily thoughts of everyone you know, especially if you know a lot of millennials that are obsessing over dating apps, trying to be real adults, and worrying about their bodies. His prior special, “Socially Distanced… Of Course” premiered on YouTube in 2021. Jared recently voiced the comedic narrator role on Peacock’s popular reality show “Love Under Cover.” He has also appeared on a number of television programs, including multiple appearances on “The Tonight Show” and as a regular contributor on “Good Morning Football” on the NFL Network. Jared can be seen in the upcoming independent romantic comedy “31 Candles.” In addition to his hectic touring schedule, Jared hosts two highly-rated weekly podcasts including his “JTrain Podcast.” The show has a cult following of loyal fans. Guests have included: Michael Che, Pete Davidson, Colin Quinn, Sal Vulcano, Bert Kreischer, Dave Attell, Michelle Wolf and more. It’s been called “A Dear Abby for Dudes,” which is why both men and women tune in religiously. Many of Jared’s fans say that his advice has helped them in their personal lives. Jared also co-hosts the popular podcast “U Up?” with Jordana Abraham of Betches, where they discuss their takes on modern dating with issues ranging from apps to hookups to relationships. In 2019, Jared released his first full-length comedy album “Always a Momma Bear” through Virtual Comedy Network. The album debuted at #1 on the iTunes Comedy Charts. Jared was also named a New Face of Comedy at the Just For Laugh’s comedy festival in 2017. Beverages and bites will be available for purchase beginning at 6:30 p.m. and will be available throughout the show. Tickets: $39 General Admission. Chef’s Table at The Hub: Erin Lichy on She’s a Host Celebrate the art of entertaining with Erin Lichy, author of the stunning new cookbook She’s a Host: An Unbuttoned Cookbook for Elegant Entertaining. Join us at The Hub for an evening that blends inspiration, conversation, and culinary creativity. Erin invites guests to explore her modern approach to hosting, one that celebrates connection, style, and ease. Through thoughtfully crafted recipes, elegant presentation ideas, and her signature approachable flair, She’s a Host redefines what it means to entertain beautifully without the pressure of perfection. During this special event, Erin will share stories from her journey of writing the book, insights into how she brings people together through food and design, and her favorite tips for creating memorable gatherings — from intimate dinners to lively celebrations. Stick around following the conversation celebrating She’s a Host for a dinner curated and attended by Erin featuring recipes from the book. About Erin Lichy: Native New Yorker, Erin Dana Lichy, is currently one of the stars of the Bravo television series, The Real Housewives of New York. Erin holds a Masters of Science Degree in Sustainable Development from N.Y.U. A serial entrepreneur, Erin is the owner of an interior design-build firm whose work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, and Vogue. She is the co-founder of Mezcalum, an artisanal mezcal and the host of the Come Together podcast. Erin resides in New York City with her husband Abe and four children. Tickets: Cookbook Talk only (no book or dinner): $14.00 Cookbook Talk & Cookbook: $49.00 Cookbook Talk & Curated Dinner with Erin (no book): $114.00 Cookbook Talk & Cookbook & Curated Dinner with Erin: $149.00 The Hub is located at: The Hub at The Janet z”l and Richard Yulman Campus at: 5950 North Kendall Drive, Pinecrest, Florida 33156. For more information and event tickets, visit: www.tbam.org - Or call: (305) 540-0700. (Credit: https://www.tbam.org/the-hub/ ) Previous Next

Want To Be An Aventura City Commissioner? The City of Aventura will Conduct its General Election Thu Aug 08 2024 16:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Port St. Lucie Man Is Beating BPH - He Took Control Of His Prostate Health With An Innovative Treatment Now Available Locally South Florida Sun Times Jul 3, 2025 Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), Otherwise Known As An Enlarged Prostate, Affects An Estimated 40 Million Men Across The U.S. The Associated BPH Symptoms Typically Involve An Urgent Need To Urinate, Nocturia (Nighttime Urination), Bladder Damage, Urinary Tract Infections, Blood In The Urine, Incontinence And More – Which Significantly Impact A Man’s Quality Of Life. Despite Being Extremely Common, With BPH And Lower Urinary Tract Issues Affecting 70% Of Men 60-69 Years Of Age And 80% Of Those 70 Years Of Age Or Older, It's Rarely Discussed Openly. But One Port St. Lucie Man Wants To Change That. Dennis’ story – all too familiar for many men For years, 75-year-old Port St. Lucie retiree, Dennis Chaberd, had noticed he was experiencing an increase in needing to make frequent trips to the bathroom, interrupted sleep and discomfort, and other life-disrupting symptoms. He found his energy levels impacted during the day due to poor sleep and dreaded long car rides. Chaberd assumed it was just a normal part of getting older until he was eventually diagnosed with BPH. But even armed with a diagnosis, Chaberd tried various treatments, none of which provided him with relief from his symptoms. Chaberd’s story is all too common. Historically, many men have suffered in silence for health issues like BPH due to stigma or misinformation. In the past, men who sought interventional treatment for BPH faced burdensome options like a lifetime of daily medication, more invasive procedures including Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) or a Prostatectomy – all which carry different risks and side effects. Due to medical innovation, men now have more access to a wide range of options for symptom relief. A shift in BPH Treatment BPH is not life threatening, although it can lead to complications if left untreated. Some complications come on suddenly and can be painful, such as urinary retention, or an inability to urinate. Untreated BPH can also lead to lasting damage to the bladder because it stretches and weakens the bladder muscles. More serious complications include Bladder Stones and Kidney Damage. Fortunately, BPH is a treatable condition that can be effectively managed and help men return to enjoying their lives. Treatment options for BPH depend on the severity of symptoms and the impact on a man’s quality of life. They range from lifestyle changes and medications to minimally invasive or more invasive surgical interventions. Historically, medication was the next step in the progression to treat BPH symptoms, but that approach has started to shift in recent years. Medications are still widely used today, but due to their low efficacy, side effect profile – including impact on sexual function – and poor patient compliance, many urologists are providing other options for their patients right from the start. Beyond the issues mentioned earlier around medications, there has been some concern in the medical community that BPH medications only act as a Band-Aid for symptoms. Though they may provide some symptom relief for some people, they don’t address the underlying cause of the issue – bladder obstruction. And long-term bladder outlet obstruction creates pressure on the bladder, causing it to give out and may result in irreparable damage to the bladder. Thankfully for physicians and patients, and widely due to their demand for better treatment options, today there are a plethora of new and emerging minimally invasive treatment options that can be used alongside or in place of medication. New options – one size does not fit all At one time, a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) Surgical Procedure was considered the gold standard in BPH Treatments, but it is an Invasive Surgery and there are significant risks involved including sexual side effects, incontinence, bleeding, and a long recovery time. Patient and physician demand for better options has led to the creation of a new class of safe and effective, minimally invasive technologies that don’t cause the same side effects as medications, don’t negatively impact men’s sexual function and do address the root issue of Bladder Obstruction. This brand-new category of BPH treatments is often referred to as minimally invasive surgical therapies (MISTs). Some of the MIST options that are cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be safe and effective include the Optilume BPH Catheter System, a prostatic urethral lift, water vapor thermal therapy, and a temporarily implanted nitinol device. Many factors including severity of symptoms, Prostate size and medical history, come into play when evaluating MIST options, so it’s important to work closely with your urologist to find the best course of treatment for your specific situation. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), Otherwise Known As An Enlarged Prostate, Affects An Estimated 40 Million Men Across The U.S. The Associated BPH Symptoms Typically Involve An Urgent Need To Urinate, Nocturia (Nighttime Urination), Bladder Damage, Urinary Tract Infections, Blood In The Urine, Incontinence And More – Which Significantly Impact A Man’s Quality Of Life. Despite Being Extremely Common, With Bph And Lower Urinary Tract Issues Affecting 70% Of Men 60-69 Years Of Age And 80% Of Those 70 Years Of Age Or Older, It's Rarely Discussed Openly. But One Port St. Lucie Man Wants To Change That. Finally: Relief Chaberd finally found help when he met Dr. Christopher Hollowell, a Urologist at Z Urology Coral Springs, Florida, who recommended the new, minimally invasive Optilume BPH therapy. The one-time procedure offers a quick recovery, is safe and effective and doesn’t have any negative impact on sexual function, unlike some other BPH treatment options. Typically administered as an outpatient procedure, Optilume BPH is a drug-coated balloon that is inserted into the urethra via a cystoscopic camera, to the prostate. Once in the Prostate, the balloon expands creating an opening, and releases the safe and proven drug, Paclitaxel, into the open Prostate. When the drug coating is fully released, the balloon is deflated and removed. The drug prevents re-fusion of the lobes during healing, keeping the prostate open, restoring the flow of urine and relieving bothersome symptoms with no heating, burning, lasering, steaming or implantation. After his procedure, Chaberd saw results immediately. What’s more, he was finally able to comfortably resume his active lifestyle – jogging, golfing and spending time with friends – free of BPH symptoms. Now, Chaberd is passionate about getting the word out about Optilume BPH to help as many others as possible find relief like he has. No more suffering in silence: Help is available Having a good understanding of the many different treatment options available today is the key to finding relief and improving quality of life quickly, with as few side effects as possible while avoiding irreparable bladder damage. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of BPH, contact a Urologist for evaluation. More about Dr. Hollowell and the team at Z Urology – including scheduling information – can be found at: https://zurology.com . To learn more about the Optilume BPH Catheter System, visit: https://www.laborie.com/product/optilume-for-bph/ . Previous Next

“Swim for Jenny”: YMCA of South Florida Is Offering Free Swim Lessons March 28, 2024 Share With Florida leading the nation in childhood drownings, the YMCA of South Florida reaffirms its commitment to water safety and drowning prevention through its signature event, “Swim for Jenny.” This week-long program offers free swim lessons to children and adults of all ages across South Florida, aiming to mitigate the risk of drowning and foster a culture of aquatic safety. This year, “Swim for Jenny” will be held through Friday, March 29 at YMCA of South Florida locations in Fort Lauderdale (L.A. Lee YMCA/Mizell Community Center), Hallandale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines and Weston. Last year alone, 97 fatal drownings were reported in Florida. For every fatal drowning, five more nonfatal drownings require hospitalization and medical support, often leaving long-term impacts on victims. “Drowning is the leading cause of death among children 1-4 years old, underscoring the urgent need for accessible swim instruction,” said YMCA of South Florida President and CEO Sheryl A. Woods. “South Florida is surrounded by water, and swim lessons are the difference between life and death. Formal swim lessons reduce the likelihood of childhood drowning by 88%, and Swim for Jenny has given us the ability to impact tens of thousands of people throughout South Florida by removing barriers to swim instruction in our community.” The event started in 2013 and honors the memory of a young girl named Jenny, who drowned in 2011 because she didn’t know how to swim. Since the inception of “Swim for Jenny,” more than 18,000 people have participated with more than 150,000 swim lessons provided. Who Is Jenny? Jenny was a one-of-a-kind child. She was smart, energetic, beautiful, and blessed with a loving family. Unfortunately, Jenny lost her life because she did not know how to swim. Swim For Jenny was created to help make sure all kids know how to swim, and how to be safe around the water. The program provides families with free swim lessons for kids. Registration for free swim instruction through “Swim for Jenny” is now available by visiting: www.ymcasouthflorida.org/swimforjenny The YMCA of South Florida For more than a century, the YMCA has been woven into the fabric of the South Florida community. As an award-winning nonprofit, the Y is committed to strengthening community through more than 200 programs serving everyone from six months old to 100 years young. Our Family Centers and programs are inclusive, vibrant hubs of community life, offering a diverse array of classes, cutting-edge fitness facilities, life-saving aquatics, exciting community events, unforgettable camps, supportive afterschool care, and holistic health and wellness programming. At the Y, there’s something for everyone. Join the movement by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or www.YMCASouthFlorida.org < Previous News Next News >

More To See, More To Do - South Florida Adventure Pass Returns With Five Destinations For 2026 South Florida Sun Times May 21, 2026 Summer Adventure Is Back. The South Florida Adventure Pass Returns For 2026, Giving Families Unlimited Admission To Five Of South Florida’s Favorite Destinations For One Price From Friday, May 15th, 2026 through Wednesday, September 30th, 2026. The pass includes Butterfly World, Flamingo Gardens, the Museum of Discovery and Science, Sawgrass Recreation Park and Zoo Miami, creating a flexible, affordable way to explore science, wildlife, nature and outdoor adventure all summer long. From hands-on exhibits and immersive IMAX® films at the Museum of Discovery and Science to open-air aviaries at Butterfly World, historic gardens and native wildlife at Flamingo Gardens, airboat rides through the Everglades at Sawgrass Recreation Park and expansive animal habitats at Zoo Miami, the South Florida Adventure Pass offers something for every interest, schedule and summer day. Each destination brings a unique experience to the pass. Guests can discover interactive science exhibits, walk among thousands of free-flying butterflies, explore botanical gardens and wildlife sanctuaries, glide through the Everglades and encounter animals from around the world. Together, the five attractions offer a dynamic mix of indoor and outdoor experiences designed for families, staycationers and guests looking to make the most of summer in South Florida. Passes will be available for purchase beginning Friday, May 15th, 2026 at all participating attractions and online through some destination’s websites. The South Florida Adventure Pass is $60 plus tax for adults ages 13 and older and $50 plus tax for children ages 3 to 12. Existing annual pass holders or members may upgrade at a reduced rate of $50 plus tax for adults ages 13 and older and $40 plus tax for children ages 3 to 12. Whether planning a full day of discovery or filling a free afternoon, the South Florida Adventure Pass makes it easy to return again and again, try something new and enjoy more of what South Florida has to offer. For more information, visit: https://southfloridaadventurepass.com . About Museum of Discovery and Science Opened in 1977 as the Discovery Center, today the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) is at the forefront of science education, innovation and exploration. Located in downtown Fort Lauderdale, MODS connects people to inspiring science through interactive exhibits, STEM programming, cultural experiences and immersive IMAX® films, welcoming more than 450,000 guests annually to its 150,000-Square-Foot Facility. MODS is located at 401 Southwest Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: https://mods.org . Or call: (954) 467-MODS. Call: (954) 467-6637. About Butterfly World Experience Butterfly World, where discovery takes flight at the world’s largest butterfly and bird park. Guests can explore open-air aviaries filled with thousands of butterflies and tropical birds, walk through a South Florida tropical rain forest and observe the full butterfly life cycle in the research facility. Additional highlights include the Butterfly Museum, Insectarium and botanical gardens. Located at 3600 West Sample Road, Coconut Creek, Florida 33073. For more information, visit: https://butterflyworld.com . Or call: (954) 977-4400. About Flamingo Gardens Established in 1927, Flamingo Gardens is a 60-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary featuring thousands of tropical and subtropical plant species and one of the largest collections of native wildlife in Florida. Guests can explore historic grounds, take a narrated tram tour and experience up-close animal encounters. Located at 3750 South Flamingo Road, Davie, Florida 33330. For more information, visit: https://flamingogardens.org . Or call: (954) 473-2955. About Sawgrass Recreation Park Sawgrass Recreation Park offers guided airboat tours through the Florida Everglades, along with wildlife exhibits featuring rescued animals and interactive experiences for guests of all ages. Visitors can explore the ecosystem up close and learn about one of South Florida’s most unique environments. Located at 1006 North U.S. Highway 27, Weston, Florida 33327. For more information, visit: www.evergladestours.com . Or call: (954) 389-0202. About Zoo Miami Zoo Miami is one of the largest and most unique zoological parks in the United States, featuring hundreds of species in open-air, naturalistic habitats. Guests can explore the zoo by foot, safari cycle or tram while enjoying unforgettable experiences such as feeding giraffes, rhinos and lorikeets, educational programs and family-friendly attractions. Located at 12400 Southwest 152nd Street, Miami, Florida 33177. For more information, visit: www.zoomiami.org . Or call: (305) 251-0400. Previous Next

We’re All Suspects: In A DNA Lineup, Waiting To Be Matched With A Crime By John & Nisha Whitehead August 31, 2023 Share “Make no mistake about it…your DNA can be taken and entered into a National DNA Database if you are ever arrested, rightly or wrongly, and for whatever reason.”—Justice Antonin Scalia dissenting in Maryland v. King. Be warned: the DNA Detectives are on the prowl. Whatever skeletons may be lurking on your family tree or in your closet, whatever crimes you may have committed, whatever associations you may have with those on the government’s most wanted lists: the Police State is determined to ferret them out. In an age of overcriminalization, round-the-clock surveillance, and a Police State eager to flex its muscles in a show of power, we are all guilty of some transgression or other. No longer can we consider ourselves innocent until proven guilty. Now we are all suspects in a DNA lineup waiting to be matched up with a crime. Suspect State, meet the Genetic Panopticon. DNA Technology in the hands of Government Officials will complete our transition to a Surveillance State in which prison walls are disguised within the seemingly benevolent trappings of technological and scientific progress, National Security and the need to guard against Terrorists, Pandemics, Civil Unrest, etc. By accessing your DNA, the Government will soon know everything else about you that they don’t already know: your family chart, your ancestry, what you look like, your health history, your inclination to follow orders or chart your own course, etc. It’s getting harder to hide, even if you think you’ve got nothing to hide. Armed with unprecedented access to DNA Databases amassed by the FBI and Ancestry Website, as well as hospital newborn screening programs, Police are using Forensic Genealogy, which allows Police to match up an unknown suspect’s Crime Scene DNA with that of any family members in a Genealogy Database, to solve Cold Cases that have remained unsolved for decades. As reported by The Intercept, Forensic Genetic Genealogists are “combing through the Genetic information of hundreds of thousands of innocent people in search of a perpetrator.” By submitting your DNA to a Genealogical Database such as Ancestry and 23andMe, you’re giving the Police access to the genetic makeup, relationships and health profiles of every relative—past, present and future—in your family, whether or not you or they ever agreed to be part of such a database. Indeed, relying on a loophole in a Commercial Database called GEDmatch, Genetic Genealogists are able to sidestep privacy rules that allow people to opt out of sharing their Genetic Information with Police. The end result? Police are now able to identify and target those very individuals who explicitly asked to keep their DNA results private. In this way, merely choosing to exercise your right to privacy makes you a suspect and puts you in the Police State’s crosshairs. It no longer even matters if you’re among the tens of millions of people who have added their DNA to Ancestry Databases. As Brian Resnick reports, Public DNA Databases have grown so massive that they can be used to find you even if you’ve never shared your own DNA. That simple transaction—a spit sample or a cheek swab in exchange for getting to learn everything about one’s ancestral makeup, where one came from, and who is part of one’s extended family—is the price of entry into the Suspect State for all of us. After all, a DNA print reveals everything about “who we are, where we come from, and who we will be.” It can also be used to predict the physical appearance of potential suspects. It’s what Police like to refer to as a “modern fingerprint.” Yet in the Police State’s pursuit of criminals, anyone who comes up as a possible DNA match—including distant family members—suddenly becomes part of a circle of suspects that must be tracked, investigated and ruled out. In this way, “guilt by association” has taken on new connotations in a technological age in which one is just a DNA sample away from being considered a person of interest in a Police Investigation. Indeed, the Government has been relentless in its efforts to get hold of our DNA, either through mandatory programs carried out in connection with Law Enforcement and Corporate America, by warrantlessly accessing our familial DNA shared with Genealogical Services such as Ancestry and 23andMe, or through the collection of our “shed” or “touch” DNA. Get ready, folks, because the Government has embarked on a diabolical campaign to create a nation of suspects predicated on a massive National DNA Database. All 50 states now maintain their own DNA Government Database, although the protocols for collection differ from state to state. Increasingly, much of the Data from Local Data Banks are being uploaded to CODIS, the FBI’s massive DNA Database, which has become a de facto way to identify and track the American people from birth to death. Even hospitals have gotten in on the game by taking and storing newborn babies’ DNA, often without their parents’ knowledge or consent. It’s part of the Government’s mandatory genetic screening of newborns. In many states, the DNA is stored indefinitely. What this means for those being born today is inclusion in a Government Database that contains intimate information about who they are, their ancestry, and what awaits them in the future, including their inclinations to be followers, leaders or troublemakers. The ramifications of this kind of DNA Profiling are far-reaching. At a minimum, these DNA Databases do away with any semblance of privacy or anonymity. These Genetic Databases and Genomic Technology also make us that much more vulnerable to creeps and cyberstalkers, Genetic Profiling, and those who would weaponize the Technology against us. Unfortunately, the debate over Genetic privacy—and when one’s DNA becomes a Public Commodity outside the protection of the Fourth Amendment’s prohibition on warrantless searches and seizures—continues to lag far behind the Government and Corporate America’s encroachments on our rights. What this amounts to is a scenario in which we have little to no defense against charges of wrongdoing, especially when “convicted” by Technology, and even less protection against the Government sweeping up our DNA in much the same way it sweeps up our phone calls, emails and text messages. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, it’s only a matter of time before the Police State’s pursuit of criminals from the past expands into Genetic Profiling and a preemptive hunt for criminals of the future. 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 >

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