Top 5 Tips For Teaching Kids Modern Money Lessons In The Digital Age By Feature Impact Sep 17, 2026 Helping Kids Feel Confident About Money Can Start With Simple, Everyday Experiences. That Can Be Especially Important Today, When Children May Hear Different Messages About Money From Parents, Friends And Financial Influencers On Social Media. Giving Kids Opportunities To Practice Earning, Saving, Spending And Making Choices With Money Can Help Them Build Skills And Confidence, Even As More Of Their Financial Lives Become Digital. Parents don't need to be financial experts to help children develop healthy money habits. Starting conversations early and giving kids opportunities to practice skills like budgeting, saving and investing can prepare them to make thoughtful financial decisions as they grow. Consider these tips from the experts at Charles Schwab, which provides a full range of brokerage, banking and financial advisory services, to help build kids' financial knowledge and confidence. 1. Start with Hands-On Activities As children grow, the way parents teach them about money should grow with them. Young kids can start by filling piggy banks or savings jars with coins and cash. As they get older, help them open bank accounts to see how their balances change over time. Introduce budgeting by letting kids make some of their own spending decisions, such as choosing a snack or deciding whether to go to a movie or save for new headphones. Older kids can get involved in family decisions, such as planning a weekend trip within a set budget. 2. Encourage Smart Saving and Investing Habits Learning to save and invest early can help kids see how financial decisions pay off over time. Start with a savings account and show them how compound interest can help their money grow. As kids enter their teen years, look for ways to give them hands-on experience with investing. A teen investing account can give young people a real-world opportunity to research investments, make decisions and learn how to manage money with a parent's guidance and oversight, helping them better understand risk and reward while building financial skills and confidence. 3. Teach Teens About Debt and Credit Before teens begin using credit themselves, help them understand what borrowing actually costs. A credit card may make a purchase feel easy in the moment, but interest and fees can make that purchase more expensive if the balance isn't paid off. Talk about the importance of living within their means, how credit scores work and how interest and late fees can cause debt to grow. Real-life examples, such as comparing the cost of paying for something now versus the cost of carrying a balance, can make these lessons easier to understand. 4. Introduce Kid-Friendly Digital Tools For today's kids, learning about money also means learning how to manage it digitally. When children are old enough to have their own devices or use a parent's device with supervision, introduce them to age-appropriate banking and budgeting tools. Show them how to check a balance, track spending and follow progress toward a savings goal. These everyday experiences help connect the money lessons they learn at home with the tools they'll likely use as adults. 5. Keep Talking About Money Building financial confidence doesn't happen through one conversation. Make money an ongoing, age-appropriate topic by asking kids what they think about spending and saving, and what short- and long-term goals matter to them. Invite them to ask questions and, when appropriate, include them in everyday household money decisions. Giving kids a safe place to learn and make choices (and sometimes mistakes) can help them become more comfortable managing money. Learn more modern strategies for teaching kids and teens financial literacy at: www.SchwabMoneywise.com . Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Previous Next

Death By A Thousand Cuts: The Many Ways Our Rights Have Been Usurped Since 9/11 By John & Nisha Whitehead September 21, 2023 Share Those who gave us the Constitution and the Bill of Rights believed that the government exists at the behest of its citizens. It is there to protect, defend and even enhance our freedoms, not violate them. Unfortunately, although the Bill of Rights was adopted as a means of protecting the people against government tyranny, in America today, the government does whatever it wants, freedom be damned. In the 22 years since the USA Patriot Act—a massive 342-page wishlist of expanded powers for the FBI and CIA—was rammed through Congress in the wake of the so-called 9/11 terror attacks, it has snowballed into the eradication of every vital safeguard against government overreach, corruption and abuse. The Patriot Act drove a stake through the heart of the Bill of Rights, violating at least six of the ten original amendments—the First, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Amendments—and possibly the Thirteenth and Fourteenth Amendments, as well. In fact, since 9/11, we’ve been spied on by surveillance cameras, eavesdropped on by government agents, had our belongings searched, our phones tapped, our mail opened, our email monitored, our opinions questioned, our purchases scrutinized (under the USA Patriot Act, banks are required to analyze your transactions for any patterns that raise suspicion and to see if you are connected to any objectionable people), and our activities watched. The boogeyman's names and faces have changed over time (terrorism, the war on drugs, illegal immigration, a viral pandemic, and more to come), but the end result remains the same: in the so-called name of national security, the Constitution has been steadily chipped away at, undermined, eroded, whittled down, and generally discarded with the support of Congress, the White House, and the courts. Here is what it means to live under the Constitution, with the nation still suffering blowback from the permanent state of emergency brought about by 9/11 and COVID-19. The First Amendment is supposed to protect the freedom to speak your mind, assemble and protest nonviolently without being bridled by the government. It also protects the freedom of the media, as well as the right to worship and pray without interference. In other words, Americans should not be silenced by the government. To the founders, all of America was a free speech zone. Despite the clear protections found in the First Amendment, the freedoms described therein are under constant assault. The Second Amendment was intended to give the citizenry the means to resist tyrannical government. Yet while gun ownership has been recognized by the U.S. Supreme Court as an individual citizen right, Americans remain powerless to defend themselves against red flag gun laws, militarized police, SWAT team raids, and government agencies armed to the teeth with military weapons better suited to the battlefield. The Third Amendment reinforces the principle that civilian-elected officials are superior to the military by prohibiting the military from entering any citizen’s home without “the consent of the owner.” With the police increasingly training like the military, acting like the military, and posing as military forces—complete with heavily armed SWAT teams, military weapons, assault vehicles, etc.—it is clear that we now have what the founders feared most—a standing army on American soil. The Fourth Amendment ensures privacy and bodily integrity. Unfortunately, the Fourth Amendment has suffered the greatest damage in recent years and has been all but eviscerated by an unwarranted expansion of governmental police powers that include strip searches and even anal and vaginal searches of citizens, surveillance (corporate and otherwise), and intrusions justified in the name of fighting terrorism, as well as the outsourcing of otherwise illegal activities to private contractors. The Fifth Amendment and the Sixth Amendment work in tandem. These amendments supposedly ensure that you are innocent until proven guilty, and government authorities cannot deprive you of your life, your liberty or your property without the right to an attorney and a fair trial before a civilian judge. However, in the new suspect society in which we live, where surveillance is the norm, these fundamental principles have been upended. The Seventh Amendment guarantees citizens the right to a jury trial. Yet when the populace has no idea of what’s in the Constitution, that inevitably translates to an ignorant jury. However, the power of the jury to nullify the government’s actions—and thereby help balance the scales of justice—is not to be underestimated. The Eighth Amendment is supposed to protect the rights of the accused and forbid the use of cruel and unusual punishment. However, the Supreme Court’s determination that what constitutes “cruel and unusual” should be dependent on the “evolving standards of decency that mark the progress of a maturing society” leaves us with little protection in the face of a society lacking in morals altogether. The Ninth Amendment provides that other rights not enumerated in the Constitution are nonetheless retained by the people. However, it has since been turned on its head by a centralized federal government that sees itself as supreme. As for the Tenth Amendment’s reminder that the people and the states retain every authority that is not otherwise mentioned in the Constitution, that assurance of a system of government in which power is divided among local, state and national entities has long since been rendered moot by the centralized Washington, DC, power elite—the president, Congress and the courts. Thus, if there is any sense to be made from this recitation of freedoms lost, it is simply this: our individual freedoms have been eviscerated so that the government’s powers could be expanded. It was no idle happenstance that the Constitution, which was adopted 236 years ago on September 17th, 1787, opens with these three powerful words: “We the people.” It’s our job to make the government play by the rules of the Constitution. Still, it’s hard to be a good citizen if you don’t know anything about your rights or how the government is supposed to operate. Here’s an idea to get educated and take a stand for freedom: anyone who signs up to become a member of The Rutherford Institute gets a wallet-sized Bill of Rights card and a Know Your Rights card. As I point out in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, “we the people” have the power to make and break the government. Imagine what we could accomplish if we actually worked together, presented a united front, and spoke with one voice. Tyranny wouldn’t stand a chance. 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 >

CORSAIR Kitchen + Bar's The 52: Aventura's Not-To-Be-Missed Sunday Brunch Now Better Than Ever Thu Sep 05 2024 16:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Back In Full Swing: April Showers Audiences with Theater, Music, Comedy and Family Entertainment Thu Mar 31 2022 04:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth: HOLYSHAKES: Miami's Ultimate Milkshake Bar July 18, 2023 Share Prepare to embark on a delightful journey for your taste buds at the extraordinary Milkshake haven known as HOLYSHAKES! This vibrant and family-owned "treatery" is all set to open its doors soon at The Aventura Mall. Get ready to experience a heavenly sensation that will bring your imagination to life with endless customization options. HOLYSHAKES will be conveniently located on the third level near AMC and will be the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings during a fun-filled shopping day or wind down after catching the latest blockbuster. Stepping into HOLYSHAKES is like entering a magical realm where joy and creativity abound. With their welcoming motto, "our house is your house" and the irresistible tagline, "too hot for heaven, too cool for hell," this lively establishment embraces everyone with open arms. The Aventura Mall location is the latest to be added after the other two venues, Doral and Boca Raton, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors. Prepare to be dazzled by the uniqueness of HOLYSHAKES, featuring customizable and visually stunning milkshakes that are practically begging to be featured on Instagram and TikTok. Choose from an array of mouthwatering options such as the Creamy Cookies Holy—a Cookies and Cream Milkshake with a Vanilla frosted rim, crushed Oreo® topping and a Chocolate Donut tower filled with silky Oreo Cream peaks. Indulge in the Nutella Crunch Holy, a Nutella® Milkshake with a Chocolate frosted rim, Crunchy Chocolate Pearls, a Fudge Brownie tower, Walnuts, Praline, Nutella® Drizzle and Sea Salt Flakes. Coffee enthusiasts won't want to miss the Coffee Rush Holy: a Nespresso Cappuccino Shake served in a glass adorned with Espresso and White Chocolate, topped with a giant White Chocolate Cookie, Whipped Cream and Caramel Syrup. Are you salivating yet? We certainly are! HOLYSHAKES boasts an extensive Menu of divine concoctions, including the Cheesecake Collection, Galaxy Shake, Key Lime Pie Holy and Cocada, ensuring there's something for everyone. Both younger guests and adults alike will be delighted by the Cool Shake Holy—a Vanilla Shake crowned with a colorful Lollipop, a Chocolate Chip Cookie and Sour Patch Candies. But the magic doesn't stop at their signature menu items. HOLYSHAKES offers an interactive and entertaining feature called Instashakes, allowing you to print a custom design on top of your shake. Simply use their App or In-Store System, scan the QR Code, upload a photo, add text and hit the print button to create your very own personalized work of art! In addition to Milkshakes, their Menu includes mini versions of blended Ice Cream goodness, delectable Vanilla Sundaes and tantalizing desserts like an Oreo Donut Sandwich, a Brownie Tower with Nutella and Praline, loaded Passion Fruit Popsicles and an assortment of mouth watering Cookies and Candies. If you're looking for a lighter option, be sure to try their Fresh Fruit Smoothies or sample the Instacoffees by Nespresso, featuring a tempting Nutella Affogato. Take advantage of HOLYSHAKES' Happy Hour, available Monday to Thursday from opening until 6:00 p.m. and savor each sunny day to the fullest. Undoubtedly, HOLYSHAKES is one of Miami's sweetest destinations, adding a touch of whimsy to the vibrant and diverse dining scene at Aventura Mall. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you enter this magical Milkshake haven. Excitingly, HOLYSHAKES is now open next to Five Guys Burgers and Fries on the third level near AMC at the Aventura Mall, located at 19501 Biscayne Boulevard, Aventura, Florida 33180. For more information and to satisfy your curiosity, be sure to visit their website at: www.holy-shakes.com < Previous News Next News >

Prepare To Sing & Dance - This May At the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center South Florida Sun Times May 1, 2025 The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Showcases A Diverse Lineup Of Performances This May, Featuring Marco Flores’ Flamenco Creation Rayuela, Chicago/Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute, The Contemporary Choreography Of Dance Now! And Acclaimed Belgian Pianist Julien Libeer. Audiences Won’t Want To Miss An Eclectic Mix Of Music And Dance That Brings A Vibrant Cultural Experience To South Florida. The City of Aventura is proud to partner with FUNDarte to present Rayuela by Marco Flores, a dynamic flamenco dance performance, at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center on Friday, May 2nd, 2025 and Saturday, May 3rd, 2025. This event is part of FUNDarte's annual Out (Loud) in the Tropics series, co-presented with the Miami-Dade County Auditorium. Rayuela, meaning "hopscotch" in Spanish, is the latest flamenco creation by the versatile artist Marco Flores. For Flores, Flamenco is a space where his artistic and vital impulses are boundless — where they find their truest expression. In Rayuela, Flores encounters the essential truths of Flamenco and experiences them in their entirety. He embodies them with kaleidoscopic emotion, from his intangible dance and a clean heart that belongs to an artist of the 21st century. With direction by Francisco López, Flores celebrates the first 20 years of his career in this piece that is a metaphor for his life where he is accompanied by renowned musicians, singer Alfredo Tejada and guitarist José Tomás Jiménez. Debbie Pierce Music presents the ultimate fusion of Rock and Funk with Hot Brass Band: Chicago/Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute on Thursday, May 1st, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Enjoy the iconic melodies that defined an era! Led by female saxophonist Debbie Pierce, this show features four dynamic lead vocalists, a sizzlin’ horn section and a rock solid rhythm section. The audience can shout “Let's Groove" along with Hot Brass to funky songs like "September" and "Boogie Wonderland," rock out to "25 or 6 to 4" and "Make Me Smile" or take a trip down memory lane with "Colour My World." The band is comprised of members who have toured and recorded with some of the biggest names in the music business including JLo, Gloria Estefan, Phil Collins, Jon Secada and George Benson. Dance NOW! culminates its 25th Anniversary Season with Program III featuring the world premiere of "Terra Mia - My Land" on Saturday, May 10th, 2025 at 8:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. The performance explores the Italian roots of Dance Now Miami Director Diego Salterini and is an invitation for audiences to immerse themselves in the beauty, passion and resilience of Italian culture. The dancers will perform to both traditional and contemporary Italian music and audiences will be enchanted by the sights and sounds of Italy. With imagery recreating a vibrant atmosphere as the dancers walk through Salterini's nostalgic memories of his life and his family's history. As an immigrant, Salterini shares his experiences of leaving his homeland and finding a new community in Miami, a place that he now calls home. Audiences will witness the intersection of different cultures and identities, and the message of acceptance. The evening will also include a celebration of Dance NOW!'s quarter century of creating and presenting contemporary dance with audience favorites from the company's history. STYX The Company presents the show of the year, “1st” A Technicolor Mind Museum, on Saturday, May 17th, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. This show incorporates high energy choreography, music, lighting and scenery. This show will be an innovative and explorative collaboration between contemporary, jazz and break dancing, featuring Miami’s own - BreakinMIA. This performance is not recommended for children age 4 and under. Miami City Ballet presents Pianist Julien Libeer of Belgium on Sunday, May 18th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Suddeutsche Zeitung said, “Everything he does sounds true, with great economy of gestures, crystal-clear limpidity and intense expression.” Highlights of past seasons have included invitations to the Concertgebouw (Amsterdam), Wigmore Hall, Flagey (Brussels) and the Steinway International Concert Series (Cardiff). He was a guest at the Enescu Festival, the Beirut Chants Festival, the Miami International Piano Festival and has performed chamber music concerts at De Doelen (Rotterdam), the Palais des Beaux-Arts (Charleroi) and the Théâtre des Abesses (Paris). Tickets to all shows are on sale now. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram: @aventuracenter. Or: #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-Square-Foot, 330-seat Waterfront Complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. Previous Next

Easy Ways To Say "I Love You" February 3, 2023 Share If gift-giving isn't your strong suit, occasions like Valentine's Day are likely to bring on stress and worry, but procrastinating will only serve to elevate your unease. Follow these steps to simplify your shopping, and while you may not come to love the task of finding the perfect gift, your loved one will undoubtedly appreciate your effort. 1. Browse for ideas online. Many retailers offer special promotions and gift idea sections on their websites, so finding inspiration can be as easy as visiting the sites of your loved one's favorite stores. There are also dozens of articles online to help get the ideas flowing. Searches such as "gifts for horse lovers" or "Valentine's gifts for a new boyfriend" will reveal a long list of ideas to peruse. 2. Keep it simple. Although the advertising industry works hard to convince consumers otherwise, Valentine's Day isn't really all about the bling. Sure, a pretty bauble is a welcome gift, but there are plenty of ways to show your affection that don't require spending a month's salary. A heartfelt card paired with a memento of a meaningful event or place in your relationship sends the same loving sentiment. 3. Make it a (different) date. For many couples, navigating the demands of work, kids and life make spending time together a luxury. Instead of fighting crowds at busy restaurants on the official date, celebrate your love on a day of your own choosing, when you can relax and enjoy the time together without the pressure to rush through dessert so your table can be flipped for the next waiting couple. 4. Give blooms a boost. A dozen long-stem red roses is a beautiful gesture, but unless your intended rose receiver is a strictly traditional type, try adding a little spice to your floral arrangement. Go for a bouquet in her favorite color, or have the flowers arranged in a practical vessel she can reuse to remember the occasion, such as a cocktail shaker or a watering can. 5. Go ahead, gift yourself. It may seem counter-intuitive, but finding a gift you'll enjoy may inspire an idea for your loved one. The trick is finding something you can share together, whether it's tickets to a show or his and hers mugs for enjoying your favorite brew. Just be sure the item is something your intended will share your enthusiasm for, or you may as well go buy a blender. Find more ideas to simplify every occasion at: www.eLivingToday.com < Previous News Next News >

Aventura Branch Library Happenings - Creative Kids, Eye Screenings, Painting Fun With Sandi And Much More Aventura Digest December 18, 2024 Share The Aventura Branch Library has a wide variety of On-line and In-Person events. There will be e-Device Advice, a Monthly Book Club, Parenting Class and much more. Some events may require you to RSVP, so, please go On-Line to register At: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura - Or for more information prior to attending the event, Call: (305) 931-5512. Creative Kids: Thursday, December 19th, 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Enjoy a dynamic art program designed to help kids explore their inner creativity, from painting to collage. Presented by local art magnet student instructors. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 11 years. e-Device Advice: Thursday, December 19th & Thursday, December 26th, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Need help with your electronic device? Instructors from Generation Technology will be available to assist you. Please bring your device for hands-on learning. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Overdose Prevention Training: Thursday, December 19th, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Learn how to recognize an overdose and save a life using Narcan (Naloxone). Free Narcan Kit and Fentanyl test strips for attendees. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 12 and up. Introduction To Computers: Saturday, December 21st & Saturday, December 28th, 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Learn the basics of computers, including how to use a mouse and keyboard, write in a Word document, browse the internet, use email and more! Taught by instructors from Collective Sistahood. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Monthly Book Club: Saturday, December 21st, 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Join your peers for a lively book discussion. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Chess Club: Monday, December 23rd & Monday, December 30th, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sharpen your Chess skills by playing with others! Fun for beginners and more advanced players alike. Meets in the auditorium. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 8 years and up. Kids Learn Tech - Presented By Tech 4 Now: Saturday, December 28th, 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Be prepared for success in today's digital world! Learn essential skills in coding, computer navigation, safe internet usage and how to conduct research. Please bring your own laptop or tablet. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 8 - 12 years. Parenting Class - Learn The Emotional Needs Of Your Children: Friday, January 3rd, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Weekly advice sessions for parents of children ages 0-6 offered by Cayuga Centers in conjunction with The Children's Trust. Topics covered include positive discipline, attachment, communication, setting limits, and more led by Maria Soledad Lizarraga, B.A. Psychology and Developmental Specialist, PACE Program. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Painting Fun With Sandi!: Tuesday, January 7th, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Join Artist Sandi Levy for a series of hands-on sessions where you'll learn about various mixed media, including acrylics, watercolor and collage. Students will go home with their finished work of art! For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Overcoming Stress & Anxiety with Meditation: Wednesday, January 8th, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Join experienced Meditation Instructor Steve Pollack to learn simple meditation techniques and apply them during a brief guided session. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Take & Make Crafts: Wednesday, January 8th, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Come to the library to pick up supplies to create an awesome craft at home! Available while supplies last. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 11 years. Lion's Club Eye Screenings: Thursday, January 9th, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Receive free eye screenings offered by Lion's Club International in collaboration with the Florida Heiken Children's Vision Program. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . All ages. Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group - Presented by the Alzheimer's Association: Thursday, January 9th, 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Build a support system with others who understand your journey as a caregiver to a loved one with Dementia. Join this Alzheimer's support group to exchange information on challenges, possible solutions, coping strategies and available community resources. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Some of the above events are On-line. To register, go to: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura For more information, feel free to contact the Aventura Branch At: (305) 931-5512. The Aventura Branch Library is located at 2930 Aventura Boulevard, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

Two Florida Main Streets Named Among The Healthiest For Walking South Florida Sun Times Jul 30, 2025 Framed By Charming Storefronts, Tree-Lined Sidewalks, And The Smell Of Coffee Drifting Out Of Local Coffee Shops, Some Of America’s Main Streets Aren’t Just Postcard Material - They’re Good For Your Health. According To Public Health Experts, Walking Just 30 Minutes A Day Can Improve Cardiovascular Health, Boost Mental Well-Being, And Reduce The Risk Of Chronic Illness. But If The Route Is Scenic, Social, And A Little Bit Magical? You Might Not Even Notice You're Exercising. Assisted Living Magazine, a senior living concierge, carried out a survey of over 3,007 residents to name the most walkable and lovable main streets in America. From cobblestone stretches in New England to palm-lined avenues out West, they asked people to nominate the spots where walking isn’t a chore, but a pleasure. The top 10 were as follows: 1. Main Street, Lake Placid, New York Lake Placid’s Main Street runs like a ribbon beside Mirror Lake, reflecting the mountains and inviting walkers to slow down and take it in. There’s a soft grade to the street, enough to warm your legs, especially if you’re coming off a chilly morning. You might see Olympic athletes training, or just locals sipping hot drinks on a bench with a view of the peaks. Whether it’s winter lights or summer wildflowers, this street makes wellness feel natural, like something the landscape itself has always encouraged. 2. State Street, Santa Barbara, California State Street is one of those rare places where a walk feels like a reward, not a task. You move from the buzz of downtown into beachy calm without even noticing the shift. The wide sidewalks are lined with palms and cooled by ocean air, and there’s always the scent of saltwater and orange blossoms in the mix. Shaded courtyards and quiet benches invite you to pause, sip a coffee, or people-watch under red-tile roofs. Whether it’s surfers heading to Stearns Wharf in the early morning or couples out for an evening stroll beneath twinkling lights, walking here always feels a little luxurious—and somehow good for you, too. 3. East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida East Las Olas Boulevard feels more like a breeze than a street, lined with palms, flanked by fountains, and always touched by the scent of salt air and tropical blooms. The sidewalks are smooth and shaded, made for slow walking or long strides, depending on your mood. You might spot a local sculptor setting up a new piece, or grab a cold coconut water from a juice stand. Morning light turns everything gold, and in the evening, the soft roar of the beach draws you east. It’s a flat, walkable stretch with enough beauty and movement to lift your mood—and enough stops along the way to keep you fueled and inspired. 4. Front Street, Nome, Alaska Front Street doesn’t feel like a sidewalk stroll—it feels like you’ve stepped into another world. The cold air wakes you up in the best way, and with the sea on one side and weathered wooden buildings on the other, it’s a walk that keeps your senses engaged. The flat terrain makes it easy for anyone to explore, and with nearly round-the-clock daylight in summer, folks tend to walk late and often. Even a slow stroll here clears your head fast. The horizon seems to stretch forever, and somehow, after just a few blocks, your lungs feel fuller and your mind a bit quieter. 5. Downtown Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee Walking Gatlinburg’s Downtown Parkway is a full-body sensory experience: sweet smells, bright colors, and the soundtrack of bluegrass, rushing water, and laughter. The terrain is flat and friendly, but the visual energy never lets up—from glassblowers and woodcarvers to mirror mazes and moonshine flights. It’s a mountain town, sure, but one that wears its carnival heart proudly. Every step offers something new, from old-world crafts to neon-lit fun, with the Smokies rising like a steady, grounding backdrop. 6. Main Street, Sag Harbor, New York Sag Harbor’s Main Street doesn’t pretend. It’s elegant but grounded, historic but lived-in. The harbor breeze keeps things moving, and the slope to the water offers just enough pull to get the blood flowing. You’ll pass clapboard buildings with centuries behind them, and bookshops that still carry Steinbeck in the window. There’s clam chowder cooking and kids skipping stones just beyond the last café. It’s not just a walk—it’s a moment in the story of a place that hasn’t lost touch with its roots. 7. Main Street, Bar Harbor, Maine Bar Harbor’s Main Street gives you that deep-breath feeling from the very start. The ocean’s never far, and the breeze smells of salt and pine and maybe blueberry tarts if you’re lucky. You’ll start walking downhill toward Frenchman Bay, which makes for a relaxed beginning, just enough to wake up the legs. Coming back up offers a little extra movement, but the scenery makes it feel effortless. Victorian storefronts, lobster rolls on the patio, and the call of gulls overhead—it’s a walk that feels like a reward in itself, especially when the fog lifts and the harbor appears, clear and still. 8. King Street, Charleston, South Carolina King Street in Charleston walks like a Southern novel—layered, lyrical, and rich with detail. Every few steps, sweetgrass baskets meet haute couture, and garden gates open into shaded courtyards humming with conversation. The terrain is easy, but the culture is deep. You walk to eat, to admire, to pause—and somehow, it always feels like the right pace. 9. Broadway Street, Skagway, Alaska Walking down Broadway Street in Skagway is like slipping into a living postcard. The wooden sidewalks creak a little underfoot, the buildings look straight out of a Gold Rush film set—and that’s exactly the point. There’s a steady uphill stretch that’ll raise your heart rate just enough, but the cool breeze off the mountains makes it easy to keep going. Between stops at locally-owned shops, you’ll hear stories from friendly historians and catch the scent of fresh-baked pastries or piney spruce-tip beer. It’s the kind of walk where you’re not just getting exercise—you’re walking through history, and that’s something you can feel in your bones. 10. South Main Street, Breckenridge, Colorado Breckenridge’s Main Street walks like a workout and unwinds like a vacation. At nearly 10,000 feet, you’ll definitely feel the elevation—but it’s the kind of healthy challenge that leaves you refreshed, not worn out. The buildings, painted in old-fashioned shades of alpine blue and burgundy, keep things interesting as you wander. There’s always a breeze coming off the Blue River and usually the faint smell of pine or fresh snow, depending on the season. Locals amble along slowly, hot drinks in hand, and it’s easy to fall into that rhythm. The altitude gives your heart a boost, the scenery clears your head, and somehow, a simple walk turns into the highlight of your day. 1 more main street in Florida featured among the best for wellness walks: 85. Main Street, Sarasota Main Street in Sarasota, Florida, embodies the vibrant fusion of art, culture, and coastal living. Palm trees sway gently overhead, casting dappled shadows on the sidewalk cafes and boutique storefronts that line the street. The scent of citrus-infused seafood dishes from upscale eateries tantalizes your senses as you explore galleries showcasing local artists’ work. Street performers add a lively soundtrack to your stroll, their melodies blending with the rhythmic lapping of waves from nearby Sarasota Bay. Whether you’re stopping to browse upscale boutiques or enjoying a smoothie at a rooftop bar, Main Street Sarasota invites you to immerse yourself in the laid-back sophistication of Gulf Coast living. “Too often, wellness gets boxed into gyms and gadgets,” says CEO Jeremy Clerc of Assisted Living Magazine: https://assistedlivingmagazine.com “But the simple act of walking – especially in places that are beautiful, social, and full of charm – can be just as powerful. These main streets remind us that movement can be both joyful and effortless when the environment invites you in.” Previous Next

Step Back In Time At The Hollywood Sock Hop South Florida Sun Times Sep 3, 2025 As Part Of The City Of Hollywood’s Centennial Celebration, The Greater Hollywood Chamber Of Commerce, Together With The City Of Hollywood, Is Hosting A 1950’s-Themed Sock Hop That Promises An Afternoon Of Dancing, Contests And Classic Fun. Guests are encouraged to dress the part with poodle skirts, leather jackets and saddle shoes. A costume contest, bubble gum blowing contest, and dance-off are all on the schedule, along with music that will bring back the spirit of the era. The event is designed to appeal to all ages, making it a true community celebration. Attendees will include local business owners, professionals, elected officials, city staff, longtime residents, and families, creating a mix that highlights the community spirit that has defined Hollywood over the past century. The Sock Hop takes place on Saturday, September 13th, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Armory Community Center at Dowdy Field, 906 North Dixie Highway, Hollywood, Florida 33020. Admission is free and open to everyone. For more information, contact Evonnie Chow at the Chamber by emailing: evonnie@hollywoodchamber.org. Pickin' & Grinnin' Song Swap Hits Hollywood This Saturday! Get ready to tune your strings and raise your voices on Saturday, September 6th, the Pickin’ & Grinnin’ Song Swap comes to the Fred Lippman Multi-Purpose Center, located at 2030 Polk Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020 for a toe-tapping afternoon of shared songs and community spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned picker, a budding strummer, or just love to sing along, this musical meet-up is open to all ages and skill levels. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite sheet music and join in the fun of swapping songs, sharing stories, and playing together in an easy-going, inclusive environment. The event celebrates the rich tradition of folk, country, and acoustic music, offering a unique space where strangers become bandmates and music makes fast friends. Expect everything from classic standards to hidden gems as players take turns leading songs and inviting others to jump in. Don't play an instrument? No problem—clap your hands, stomp your feet, or simply enjoy the joyful sounds. Whether you come to play, sing, or grin, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Event Details Pickin' & Grinnin' Song Swap Saturday, September 6th Fred Lippman Multi-Purpose Center 2030 Polk Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020 Mark your calendar for September 6th and come share the music at Pickin’ & Grinnin’. Just follow the sound of strumming strings and laughter to the Fred Lippman Center—it’s where Hollywood makes music, one song at a time. Previous Next

From Iowa to Elvis: Destined to Fly, The Fascinating True Story of the Pilot to the King October 27, 2022 Share Destined to Fly: The Story of Pilot Ron Strauss – From Iowa to Elvis, from noted Elvis historian and journalist Sally Hoedel, retraces the life of an ordinary boy from Iowa as his life takes an extraordinary turn and he becomes a pilot of one of the most famous airplanes in existence — Elvis Presley’s 880 Convair, the Lisa Marie. From an early age, Strauss had a desire to be involved in aviation, and he served 12 years in the United States Air Force. As a flight engineer, Strauss flew 3,400 hours during the Vietnam War, departing California with supplies and returning with fallen soldiers. As a pilot, he was instrumental in peacefully resolving a hijacking conflict involving General Somoza in Nicaragua in 1974. One of the political prisoners who Strauss flew to Cuba during that ordeal is now the president of Nicaragua. Through a series of serendipitous events — and one stress-filled interview with Vernon Presley — Strauss landed a job piloting Elvis’ plane from 1975 until Elvis’ untimely passing in 1977. Destined to Fly offers a personal glimpse of Elvis during the busiest touring years of his career. Along with never-before-seen photos from inside the famous airplane, the complete record of where Elvis traveled aboard the Lisa Marie, whether on tour or on retreat, is available as an appendix in this book. Strauss’ flight log is an incredible historical document, and it is printed in its entirety for the first time ever. “Ron Strauss certainly cannot be reduced to the nearly two years he flew Elvis Presley,” Hoedel said. “His story is more vast than that short period. However, the book does capture Elvis Presley as a boss and a leader within a very unique organization. Elvis fans will walk away with new information about the Lisa Marie and what it was like to be called up in the middle of the night for an unscheduled destination at the request of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Hoedel examines the eight decades of Strauss’ journey thus far, as she explores the roots of his character and the hard work and perseverance behind his successful aviation career. “This story is a slice of Americana,” Hoedel added. “It has a little John Wayne, a little Ronald Reagan and some Elvis. I think there’s something for everyone, and there are some great lessons along the way.” Hoedel forged a close friendship with Strauss, she explained, which began years before he agreed to share his life story with her. “I am proud to capture this amazing tale of hard work, perseverance, dreams, love, life, family and flying on the pages of this book,” she said. “More than anything, I value the friendship that emerged despite the 40-plus-year age difference. The life lessons from Ron will stay with me for a lifetime, and I hope with my readers as well.” From Iowa to Elvis Author Sally A. Hoedel is the author of Elvis: Destined to Die Young. Focused primarily on explaining the genetic health issues the King dealt with, the book was the first in what will be at least a three-book series exploring aspects of Elvis Presley’s life. She has been honored with an Independent Publisher Book Award and a Pencraft Award for best nonfiction book of 2021. A lifelong Elvis fan and writer, she has a journalism degree from Michigan State University and is co-owner of Character Development and Leadership, a curriculum business. Hoedel lives in Northern Michigan with her husband and four daughters. For more information, please visit: www.ElvisAuthor.com , or follow the author on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Elvis-Destined-To-Die-Young-101511875099858), Instagram (sallyhoedel) or YouTube (sallyhoedel). < Previous News Next News >

Not Getting Results From Your Vitamin C Serum? Here Are 4 Reasons Why By BPT July 4, 2024 Share One of the most praised skincare ingredients on Social Media is Vitamin C, with influencers and dermatologists alike touting its benefits of brightening the skin, adding luminosity and even diminishing the signs of aging. Is the hype real? The answer: Yes, but it's a bit more complicated than that. Vitamin C can indeed do all of these things, and more, for your skin. But because Vitamin C is an unstable molecule, it can break down easily. How it's formulated and packaged really matters in terms of its efficacy. Not all brands get it right. "Using a Vitamin C Serum consistently not only helps protect and repair damage from UV and environmental stressors, but it can also lighten, brighten and diminish the signs of aging," says Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, Board-Certified Dermatologist. "But it's important for consumers to do their homework and invest in products with stabilized formulations and optimal packaging to deliver the best results." The market is flooded with Vitamin C Serums from many brands. How can you make sure you're choosing the right one? Here's what you need to know. Vitamin C Serums are concentrated skincare treatments that use a powerful antioxidant to revitalize, brighten and tighten the skin. The top benefits of using a Vitamin C Serum include the following: • Luminosity. Vitamin C helps produce a brighter and more even skin tone, giving you a radiant, luminous glow. • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It helps stimulate Collagen production, which increases skin's firmness and elasticity. • Brightens dark spots. Can help fade dark spots because it inhibits an enzyme that causes discoloration. • Antioxidant protection. Helps protect your skin from Free Radicals that come from environmental aggressors, which cause premature aging. That's why it's best to use it in the morning. The protection lasts all day long. Even with these great benefits, Vitamin C Serums are NOT created equal. You might find yourself not getting the results you want or feeling uncertain with what, if anything, it does for your skin. If this sounds familiar, you may have chosen the wrong brand. Here are some common mistakes people make when choosing a Vitamin C Serum: Choosing a little-known brand. Yes, you'll find many brands out there on Social Media, touted by influencers and celebrities. But choosing a respected, trusted brand matters. For example, RoC Skincare, an esteemed brand developed directly with dermatologists, has a Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Vitamin C Serum, which is the result of years of research and clinical testing. It combines a patent-pending blend of 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, the most stable and effective form of Vitamin C, with Peptides to help nourish and calm skin. This powerful combination produced incredible results in clinical trials - 94% of users reported instant luminosity and improved elasticity, and within 4 weeks, 100% reported brighter, tighter skin and reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Not looking at the packaging. Because Vitamin C can degrade, opaque packaging keeps it stable and effective longer. If you choose a brand with a glass bottle - if you can see the serum in the jar, in other words - that serum may lose its efficacy before you use the last dose in the bottle. It'll do little for you that plain water can't. Too highly concentrated formulation. Some Vitamin C products contain acids that can irritate the skin and cause redness. Look for a brand that contains a more gentle formulation. Too expensive. You don't need to spend hundreds of dollars on a serum. More expensive doesn't mean better. Instead of looking for a high price tag and thinking that might mean it's a better product, look at clinical results. That should be your benchmark. According to research RoC's Serum is affordable and one of the most effective on the market today. Bottom line, when choosing a Vitamin C Serum, choose one from a company you trust that offers clinical results and is dermatologist-recommended. Brighter, more luminous skin awaits! < Previous News Next News >