Run With Purpose: Join JCS Team Blue Card For The 2027 Miami Marathon Jewish Connection News Sep 10, 2026 On Sunday, January 31st, 2027, Runners From Across South Florida And Beyond Will Take To The Streets For The Life Time Miami Marathon & Half Marathon. Among Them Will Be A Team Running For Something Bigger Than A Finish Time: JCS Team Blue Card, A Group Of Runners Committed To Supporting Holocaust Survivors In The Miami-Dade Community. Organized by Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS), Team Blue Card gives runners the opportunity to turn every mile into meaningful support. By participating in the Miami Marathon or Half Marathon, team members help raise critical funds for Holocaust Survivors who are facing the growing challenges of everyday life. Last year, JCS Team Blue Card raised nearly $50,000. Those funds helped provide essential services and assistance to Survivors throughout the community. This year, the team is aiming to make an even greater impact—and every runner can play a part. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner, a dedicated half-marathon runner, or someone looking to take on your first major race, Team Blue Card welcomes you. The goal is not simply to cross the finish line. It is to help ensure that Holocaust Survivors can continue to live with dignity, security and independence in their own homes. Making Every Mile Count For many Holocaust Survivors living in Florida, rising inflation and the increasing cost of housing, utilities, food and medications have made it more difficult to make ends meet. Expenses that once seemed manageable can become overwhelming when they are living on fixed or limited incomes. JCS and The Blue Card work together to help address these needs by providing financial assistance and essential services to Holocaust Survivors. That support can make the difference between having to make an impossible choice and having the resources to meet basic needs. A donation raised through Team Blue Card can help a Survivor avoid having to choose between paying an electric or air-conditioning bill and paying rent, or between buying food and purchasing necessary medications. These are not abstract needs. They are the everyday realities facing members of a generation whose lives were forever changed by the Holocaust. By joining the team and fundraising, runners become part of a community effort to make sure Survivors are not left to face those challenges alone. A Team With a Mission Team members who participate in the Half Marathon commit to raising a minimum of $500. Full Marathon participants commit to raising at least $1,000. In return, runners receive fundraising support from JCS, a JCS Team Blue Card race shirt and the chance to participate in one of South Florida's signature running events while supporting an extraordinarily meaningful mission. For those who have ever wanted their miles to have a greater purpose, this is an opportunity to lace up and make a difference. Be Part of the 2027 Team The race may only last a few hours, but the impact of the funds raised can extend far beyond race day. Every training run, every fundraising conversation and every mile on Sunday, January 31st, 2027 can help provide vital assistance to Holocaust Survivors living in the Miami-Dade area. The finish line is only one part of the journey. The real measure of success is knowing that your effort helped someone in need live with greater dignity and peace. Registration for the Miami Full Marathon with JCS Team Blue Card is open, and runners are encouraged to reserve their spots. To learn more about joining JCS Team Blue Card and participating in the 2027 Life Time Miami Marathon & Half Marathon, contact Jake Rider at: jrider@JCSFL.org to learn more and reserve your spot. Run for the team. Run for the community. Run for the Survivors. About Bluecardfund.org The Blue Card was founded to respond to urgent need. Since its earliest beginnings in Germany and its reestablishment in the United States in 1939, the organization has remained focused on helping victims of Nazi persecution rebuild their lives and access essential support. Antisemitism intensified in the years before World War II. Jewish families faced growing discrimination across daily life, including employment, commerce, and access to opportunity. In 1934, The Blue Card was established by the Jewish community in Germany to help those already suffering under Nazi restrictions, business closures, and forced loss of livelihood. In 1939, the organization was reestablished in the United States to continue aiding refugees of Nazi persecution as they sought safety and a new beginning in America. How The Blue Card Got Its Name The organization’s name comes from the original blue paper cards issued to Jewish donors who contributed funds for individuals harmed by rising antisemitism before the war. Each contribution was marked with a stamp on the card, creating a visible record of generosity and shared responsibility. After the Holocaust, The Blue Card’s mission expanded to help survivors of the Shoah establish stable new lives in the United States. As the survivor population continues to age and shrink, the need for financial support grows more urgent. Since its inception, The Blue Card has remained committed to improving daily life for survivors and helping create a more secure future. Credit: bluecardfund.org Previous Next

Have It Sweet Like Honey, Honey! May You & Your Families Be Blessed With A Happy & Healthy, Good & Sweet New Year Thu Sep 14 2023 16:16:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Medicare Open Enrollment Period Is Here! Get In Touch With The Team At Hallandale Medical Center To Prepare By Austin Torres January 5, 2023 Share The annual Medicare open enrollment period kicked off last week. From October 15th, 2022 to December 7th, 2022, 64 million Americans enrolled in Medicare will have the option to review their current health and drug plans and make any changes that will better suit their needs. Any coverage changes during this period will go into effect on January 1st, 2023. As part of the HG Doctors family, the team at Hallandale Medical Center knows how confusing it can be to make sense of all the Medicare Plans available and encourages you to take this opportunity to learn about open enrollment, review your coverage plans and ensure that you are optimizing your healthcare while also choosing options at a reasonable cost. During the Open Enrollment Period, recipients eligible for Medicare will have the opportunity to revisit their current plan and decide whether or not it is the right plan for them. As our healthcare needs change over time, the services needed to best care for ourselves or our loved ones, may need to be revisited. Open Enrollment is the time to start looking at what health plans are available, as well as the services, costs and copays associated with these plans. “Straight Medicare” Plans tend to only cover medical expenses and typically do not entitle an insured to dental, eyeglass, hearing aids, or other benefits. If a “Straight Medicare” insured patient wants dental benefits, they would have to purchase a separate policy which then adds additional expense to the insured. Whereas, some Medicare Advantage Plans not only include medical coverage, but also include dental coverage as well as other benefits as part of the package. CarePlus Medicare Advantage Plans, as an example, will include medical coverage, but may also include routine dental, vision, and hearing coverage as well as provide a monthly allowance for over-the-counter medicines. Another benefit to some of these Medicare Advantage Plans is that they may offer $0 copays for primary care and specialist visits. Knowing which plan is best for you is important to ensure you have the proper coverages for your healthcare needs and at a price that is affordable. While some folks choose to stay with their current plan, there are those that may realize their current plan is not giving them the coverage they need at the price they can afford. Doing your due diligence during open enrollment is very important to ensuring you are maximizing your benefits and getting the most for your money. For those interested in enrolling into Straight Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan, Hallandale Medical Center accepts a wide range of plans including most major insurance plans. As Hallandale Medical Center offers geriatric medicine they work hard to try and contract with most Medicare Advantage plans, including CarePlus and Humana Medicare Advantage Plans. Since Hallandale Medical Center offers primary care, behavioral health, podiatry and dental services, they try to contract with insurers to allow their patients to utilize all the services under one roof. According to Randy Kirshbaum, Chief Operating Officer at Hallandale Medical Center, “we do our best to ensure that our patients can utilize all our services under the roof. For example, our CarePlus and Humana Medicare Advantage patients have access to medical, dental and behavioral health services to ensure we are doing our best at providing a 360-degree approach to their healthcare.” In 2023, some CarePlus and Humana Medicare Advantage Plans will offer a wide array of benefits including dental crowns, root canal, complete or partial dentures, as well as many other services all at a $0 copay to their insured patients. While Hallandale Medical Center accepts Medicare Advantage Health Maintenance Organization plans (HMO) Plans, they also accept Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plans. While Medicare Open Enrollment offers an opportunity for current Medicare participants to review and change their plans, those of you soon to turn 65 are also encouraged to prepare. To stay up to date we strongly recommend you carefully review any Medicare correspondence you receive in the mail. Every year people enrolled in a Medicare health or drug plan receive materials from their plans like the “Evidence of Coverage” (EOC) and “Annual Notice of Change” (ANOC). These notices are important to review because they include crucial information regarding price and coverage changes. For additional information, current and prospective patients can also contact Hallandale Medical Center to be connected with a licensed insurance agent who is able to answer any questions regarding Medicare Benefits. Medicare Advantage Plan premiums are expected to see a decline in average premiums. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the projected average premiums will drop by nearly 8% to $18 per month next year. In recent years Medicare Advantage plans have experienced a sharp increase in popularity with almost 32 million estimated enrollees as of next year. Many people are drawn to Medicare Advantage plans because they offer additional benefits not covered in traditional Medicare, including vision, hearing and dental benefits. While Medicare Advantage Plans continue to grow in popularity it is important to do your research to find the plan that fits your needs and budget. To better serve our patients, and assist them in maneuvering the Medicare landscape, Hallandale Medical Center helps patients get in contact with licensed insurance agents who can answer any questions they may have regarding the different plans available. We hope this information helps you make the right choices during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period. For additional information on Medicare, or Medicare Advantage Plans, you can call: 1-800-Medicare, or visit Hallandale Medical Center where we will help you get in touch with a licensed insurance agent. To learn more about Hallandale Medical Center, or its other Centers: Delray Medical & Dental and Coral Springs Medical & Dental, you can visit their website at: https://hgdoctors.com . < Previous News Next News >

Public Art Program at The Parker - Dynamic outdoor art light projection by Mad Arts kicks off in January December 25, 2024 Share Funding Arts Broward (FAB) announced the launch of a new public art program titled, FAB Goes Public, with a dynamic outdoor artistic light display on the exterior wall of The Parker in Fort Lauderdale from January through April. Made possible with the support of Funding Arts Broward, the membership-based organization dedicated to championing the arts in Broward, in collaboration with the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, The Parker and Mad Arts, FAB Goes Public is FAB’s public art initiative designed to broaden appreciation for the arts within the community, reach a larger audience and benefit emerging artists by teaching them new skills and showcasing their work. The impetus behind FAB Goes Public originated from the nonprofit’s recently published “Enriching the Arts Opportunities in Broward County’s Arts Community” report which identified key needs within Broward County’s arts community. A signature public art event was a top priority. “Public art enhances our cultural landscape, engages communities, contributes to economic vitality and celebrates diversity,” said FAB President Mary Riedel. “We are thrilled to be able to bring this multi-month outdoor light projection to the community and at the same time support our local artists.” Miami native, Marc Aptakin, Founder and acting CEO of Mad Arts, is a longtime supporter of local arts initiatives, providing complimentary space for artists exhibits and now includes education. “As a former artist and photographer, I support the arts and artists in any way that I can,” said Aptakin. “I’m delighted to partner with FAB and host instructive workshops for aspiring artists.” FAB worked alongside Sofia Bastidas, Mad Arts Curator, to identify the artists that will be showcased for FAB Goes Public. The artists include Rosanna Kalis and Miguel Gonzalez, who are both local artists working at the intersection of arts and technology. The project seeks to empower and elevate local artists by expanding their digital expertise to enhance their visibility. An important part of the program was to implement an educational initiative at Mad Arts. This program hopes to educate participants to explore their creativity and develop new technical skills, such as 3D projection mapping. “With this immersive lighting experience at The Parker, we have a unique opportunity to weave in the visual arts with the performing arts,” said Lisa Kitei, President of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation and longtime FAB member. “We look forward to lighting up the sky at The Parker to further engage our community in the arts.” The Parker is located at 707 Northeast 8th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. Funding Arts Broward (FAB) Funding Arts Broward (FAB) is a privately funded non-profit organization that provides visual arts and arts education grants to non-profit organizations in Broward. FAB funds an annual grant pool of up to $400K, through the support of its members, corporate partners, and allied foundations. FAB was founded by local artist and philanthropist Francie Bishop Good. More information about FAB can be found at: https://fundingartsbroward.org . Follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/fundingartsbroward. Mad Arts A Non-Profit Organization founded in 2020, Mad Arts is a museum, community hub, and laboratory for art and technology. Facilitating visionary exhibitions and projects by individuals, collectives, and companies, Mad Arts operates out of its flagship headquarters, a 50,000-square-foot space in South Florida. More information about MAD can be found at: www.yeswearemadarts.com . The Parker The Parker is Fort Lauderdale’s iconic, heritage theater presenting concerts, comedy, dance, family fare and more. Beautifully renovated in 2021, The Parker offers audiences enhanced entertainment and hospitality experiences. The neo-classical Lillian S. Wells Hall features outstanding acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, wide rows and continental seating. The grand S. Donald Sussman Lobby, Bernie Peck’s Bar, the intimate Haller Club, and the private members’ lounge, The Place To Be, provide ample opportunities for audiences to enjoy culture, cocktails and conversation with every visit to the theater. For more information, visit: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com < Previous News Next News >

A Stranger's Donation Cured 9/11 Firefighter's Cancer October 10, 2024 Share On September 11th, 2001, as the whole world watched the tragedy unfolding at the World Trade Center, New York firefighter Brian Kevan rushed to the scene to help. Like many others who responded that terrible day, Brian developed Cancer because of exposure to Noxious Chemicals, Dust, Asbestos and more. He was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma in 2019. Brian underwent treatment, but the Cancer kept recurring. His last, best hope for a cure was a Blood Stem Cell Transplant - if he could find a donor. None of his family members were a suitable match. That's not as uncommon as it may sound. Approximately 70% of patients who need a transplant don't have a fully matched donor in their family. Through NMDP (formerly Be The Match), which manages the world's most diverse Blood Stem Cell Registry, Brian found a matching donor and underwent a Blood Stem Cell Transplant in November 2021. Two years later, Brian, now free from Cancer, met Ryan Crooker, his life-saving donor. Ryan was a college football player at Springfield College in Massachusetts when he joined the NMDP Registry in 2014 with a simple cheek swab. Seven years later, he got the call asking him to donate his Regenerative Blood-Forming Stem Cells to help cure Cancer and save a life. He selflessly said, "Yes." The story of these two men is unique, but it's not unusual. For nearly four decades, the Global NonProfit NMDP has impacted more than 130,000 lives through Cell Therapy - giving a second chance at life to patients around the world. This year, on World Marrow Donor Day, September 21st, 2024, NMDP will honor the community of recipients, donors and supporters they've built over the last 37 years with a free, nationwide event series, NMDP Unite: a celebration to find cures and save lives, for people facing Blood Cancers and Disorders. Fundraising is encouraged, and all proceeds raised will go toward programs critical to NMDP's life-saving mission, including Patient Assistance Grants, research to help more transplant recipients like Brian thrive, and efforts to continue to grow the registry. When it comes to transplant, finding a suitable donor match is critical - but it's not the only challenge patients face. "The financial burden continues to be the number one barrier for patients and families coming to us in need of a transplant," said Joy King, Chief Advancement Officer for NMDP. "It presents an enormous challenge, and we are committed to helping them overcome this barrier. The funds we raise through NMDP Unite will help thousands of families with loved ones going through treatment each year." NMDP Unite will be held in Los Angeles, New York City and at NMDP's World Headquarters in Minneapolis. Minnesota Timberwolves Center Naz Reid will be greeting fans in the Twin Cities; Olympic Gold Medalist and Professional Women's Basketball Player Breanna Stewart will join Brian and others in New York and Three-Time Olympic Gold Medalist Gabby Douglas will celebrate in Los Angeles. Thanks to sponsors GVHD Alliance and Innovative Office Solutions attendees can enjoy music, food and fun while mingling with other families, donors, doctors - and so many other mission supporters from the NMDP community. "I'm passionate about NMDP because their mission is close to my heart. I lost my mentor, Rudy Roundtree, to Blood Cancer a few years ago and want to do everything I can to honor his legacy," Reid said. "I hope people will come out, have some fun and help raise money for a good cause." If you're not in one of the three event cities, you can share in the celebration digitally. Join NMDP and the movement to save lives, find cures and give families the gift of more time with loved ones. For more information and to register for free today, visit: www.nmdp.org/Unite. < Previous News Next News >

“Broadway With Heart" Brings Heart By Phyllis Green, Critic At Large February 16, 2023 Share A night of nostalgia and some nifty song and dance routines recently whirled into Aventura Cultural Center, a jewel box of a theater. Stars, Michael Kessler and Melinda Jackson wowed a full house with their take on some of the most beloved Broadway shows of the times. The beautiful couple known as M&M presented a non-stop parade of their experiences in performing arts including directing, composing, teaching, singing and dancing, through the years. With their creation of The Non-Profit M&M American Dance Theatre Works, they promote educational and cultural enrichment, through exposure, mentorship and involvement in musical dance theater. Blessed with a gorgeous body, with legs that reached to eternity, Melinda, through song, jazz, soft shoe, ballet and breathtaking pointe, delivered a luscious act. Would have loved more of her and her graceful moves. Michael, the man of many talents, sang and danced vignettes of shows gone by such as "Oklahoma," "Kiss Me Kate," "Guys and Dolls," to spots from "Hair," "Jesus Christ Super Star" and even "Hamilton." Certainly, he could have taught the beloved Tevye a step or two or three in his "If I Were A Rich Man" presentation. Just to watch the precision and expressions of hand and body from this duo throughout the show was a treat. Backed by a bevy of five talented dancers, who, through clever choreography by Michael himself, provided on-stage set designs and costume changes with panache. The staging was simple: a huge screen showing M&M handling much of the narrative with the telling backgrounds of the spots being done. From "Two Sleepy People" with moves so synchronized, this couple was affectionately one soul; to morphing into "Phantom Of The Opera" with glitzy flowing fabric furling behind the actors, presented, exquisite! Indeed, a Five Star Show from Two Gifted Stars: Magical and Mighty!! To learn more about M&M: www.americandance.biz < Previous News Next News >

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious: A Musical Adventure For The Entire Family March 30, 2023 Share One of the most popular Disney movies of all time is capturing hearts of a whole new generation of audiences as Slow Burn Theatre Company presents Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts currently showing through Sunday, April 9th, 2023. Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the Classic Walt Disney Film Mary Poppins, the musical delighted Broadway audiences during more than 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The beloved story begins with Bert, a jack-of-all trades, welcoming the audience to 1910 England and the troubled Banks family. Everyone's favorite, practically-perfect nanny, Mary Poppins, arrives to lead a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure. Using magic and common sense, she teaches the family how to value each other again. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that "Anything can happen if you let it." The original music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman includes the timeless favorites “Jolly Holiday,” “Step In Time,” “Feed The Birds” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” New songs and additional music and lyrics include “Practically Perfect” and “Anything Can Happen” and are by the Olivier Award-Winning British team of George Stiles and Anthony Drew. With a book by Julian Fellowes, Co-Creator Cameron Mackintosh has delivered an enchanting mixture of an irresistible story, unforgettable songs, breathtaking dance numbers and astonishing stagecraft. The cast features Melissa Whitworth in the title role and Adam Biner as Bert. The Banks family is portrayed by Matthew W. Korinko and April Strelinger as Mr. and Mrs. Banks with Victoria Vasquez, Stella Macey, Nate Colton and Spencer Hannan as their children, Jane and Michael. Other featured roles are performed by Heather Jane Rolff, Michael Kreutz, Ellie Pattison and Stephen Fala. The talented ensemble that rounds out the cast features Dalia Aleman, Aaron Atkinson, Jerel Brown, Austin Carroll, Samuel Colina, Kalista Curbelo, Madeline Dunn, Stephen Eisenwasser, Jonathan Eisele, Camryn Handler, Melanie Johnson, Kareema Khouri, Vincent Law, Michael Materdomini, Kristi Rose Mills, Matthew Quintero, Nicolette Quintero, Michael Scott Ross, Ashley Rubin, Benjamin Shaevitz and Larry Toyter. The Slow Burn Theatre Company production has direction, sound and wig design by Patrick Fitzwater. The original London and Broadway choreography by Matthew Bourne and Stephen Mear have been staged for this production by Ashley Rubin. The creative team also features music Director Michael Ursua, Lighting Designer Clifford Spulock, Costume Designer Rick Peña, Props & Projection Designer and Assistant Stage Manager André Russell, Dance Captain Ashley Rubin, Production Stage Manager Steve Emerson and Technical Director Alex Fine. Set rental is from Front Row Theatrical with costumes by Ryan Moller provided by Tuacahn Costume Rentals. The matinee performance on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. will be open captioned in which a text display located to the side of the stage scrolls words in synchronization with the performance. Open captioning for Slow Burn Theatre productions is generously sponsored by the Amaturo Family Foundation. A sensory-inclusive performance intended for kids and adults on the Autism Spectrum as well as individuals with other sensitivity issues or Developmental Disabilities will be held on Saturday, April 1st, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. with tickets priced at $20 with $5 lap tickets for children 12 months of age and younger. The Broward Center's sensory-inclusive programming is made possible through the generous support of The Batchelor Foundation, JAFCO Children's Ability Center, Nicklaus Children's Hospital and The Taft Foundation. This production is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). The Slow Burn Theatre Company 2022/2023 Season, presented by American National Bank, culminates with Disney’s Newsies: The Broadway Musical from Saturday, June 10th, 2023 - Sunday, June 25th, 2023. Performance times for Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins vary. Tickets start at $49. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and Parker Playhouse. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222 or in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org < Previous News Next News >

Hollywood Responds: Hurricane Relief Effort for Jamaica Thu Jul 18 2024 16:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In Memory Of My Beloved Kind, Loving, Irreplaceable Doggie, Daisy By Ira Liebowitz November 17, 2022 Share November 22nd, 2009 - November 12th, 2022 - I will always love you, Daisy dear. I love you so much. I can't believe you are gone. Losing you is hard to bear. It Is very hard. My beloved pooch, doggie, friend pal and companion. In your doggie bed behind the sofa, I knew you were there always for me. To cuddle. To kiss your forehead and cheek. Kind, compassionate and loving. Of note: you were most beautiful. My rust and white-colored Siberian Husky. A fluffy bundle of love. Daisy dear, that was your sole purpose in this life to love and be kind and smiling at everyone, seniors and tots, children, toddlers not much taller than you would delight. "Can I pet your dog?" they'd say when we went out for a walk. Adored you, as did all the neighbors and people you'd encounter and make their day that much brighter. A ray of sunshine penetrating whatever gloom. You raised my spirit, cheered me just to look at and behold such a wonderful, acutely lovely animal. Expressive blue eyes. Your sweet face and cheerful disposition. Ten years have passed since I rolled with you on the floor of the cubicle, the little room at the Soffer Humane Society on Dixie Highway. Twenty-five people had signed papers longing, yearning to have you as their pet. Dayle there knew that you and I, my beloved, irreplaceable companion, were a match made in heaven. They gave you to me. You were three years young and had never had a toy. Scruffy and flea-bitten with an ear infection. The kind folks at Soffer had nurtured you to health. I took mom with me to claim Daisy, which was my sister's suggestion for a name, as you'd been referred to as Alexandria. Memorably, that day you sauntered up to the window to kiss me through the glass and for a decade you enraptured all that had the privilege to see you. You, dear, were, indeed, a local celebrity. I'd toss you tidbits from my plate at local establishments, notably Padrinos, The Upper Deck and Sage Bagel, which became Mo's Bagels. These venues are run by nice people. You'd "wolf down" chicken strips. You'd differentiate the good human-food from the canine stuff. Recently you partook of chicken soup, known as Jewish Penicillin. Importantly, you joined me steadfastly for about seven Walk-a-thons for Charity, the latest being to thwart Breast Cancer. Thank you! Thank you! Did I forget to mention Hair People? Sandy, Dawn, Bobbi and Jack would invite you in to mingle with the guests who were expertly groomed from head to toe. They'd give you and me a cookie and even placed your photo behind their front desk. Would you post this letter at your establishment? Many knew and loved you at the Diplomat Resort on Hollywood Beach. Like a celebrity, your admirers and devotees were legion. Lastly, my gratitude to my mom, Mickey, perennially young at heart, sometimes referred to as the "angel" or "mango lady." I could not provide my Daisy with a superior diet and "noshes" and medical attention without her support. She loved my dog and lastly, kudos to Craig, Fred, Cecile and Kathy at the South Florida Sun Times who have permitted me free of charge to say farewell, I still can't believe my pal Daisy is gone and I'm crying on the inside! Some people came over to assuage my hurt heart during this time of grieving. A neighbor, Steven, carried Daisy to a corner of mom's backyard amid a young palm tree and not far from the mango tree, a piece of paradise. May Daisy delight in the flowers that I plant there-even, daisies! I once wrote a poem after writing about a City Commission Meeting a lifetime ago. The father of a Commissioner had just passed away and, still, this devoted gentleman was there that day to serve the townspeople. "Time does not wait and survivors somehow must move on," my words ended. I will always love and miss and visit Daisy in the yard. If I am a good enough human being, I hope to see her, my sweet, fluffy friend in heaven. I love you, always, my dear friend. But, I have some more things to do first. Just perhaps, through the Lord's Grace may I be able to help those in need. Goodbye, farewell, my sweet, cuddly, lovable kind friend. Rest in peace. Ira < Previous News Next News >

What's New In Greater Miami And Miami Beach South Florida Sun Times Sep 10, 2026 Greater Miami & Miami Beach Is Buzzing This Quarter With Notable Hotel Developments, A Growing Roster Of Culinary Concepts And An Expanding Mix Of Cultural Programming, Attractions And Experiences Across The Destination. “The continued investment across Greater Miami & Miami Beach reflects a destination that evolves at every level,” said David Whitaker, President and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB). “We’re seeing landmark hotels transformed, globally recognized brands choose our destination and new cultural and culinary experiences emerge across our neighborhoods. It’s that steady momentum that gives travelers new reasons to visit.” Hotel Openings & Hospitality News Grand Hyatt Miami Beach reached a major construction milestone in July with the topping off of the highly anticipated 800-room convention headquarters hotel. Developed by Terra and Turnberry, the 17-story property will connect directly to the Miami Beach Convention Center via a climate-controlled skybridge and feature four floors of meeting and ballroom space, a rooftop pool deck, restaurant and bar concepts and retail offerings. The hotel is scheduled to open in late 2027. JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa is offering several new guest experiences, including Cascata Sunset Sips, a weekly Saturday cocktail series overlooking the resort’s signature water feature; Off the Record, a live vinyl DJ experience; Spritz at SOFF’S, an Italian-inspired aperitivo experience; and The Listening Room, an intimate live music series showcasing local musicians. Royal Palm South Beach reopened in July following a more than $100 Million renovation, marking the return of one of Miami Beach’s iconic art deco hotels. Now operating as Marriott’s flagship Tribute Portfolio Resort, the reimagined 404-room property features redesigned guest rooms and suites, new culinary concepts, restored historic architectural elements, direct beach access, and 18,000 Square Feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space. InterContinental Miami is expanding its pet-friendly offerings with the debut of Rocco, a virtual canine concierge that provides personalized recommendations for dog-friendly parks, restaurants, attractions and walking routes throughout Greater Miami & Miami Beach. The downtown hotel also plans to introduce an elevated in-room dining menu designed exclusively for four-legged guests later this year. Restaurant Openings & Culinary News Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road welcomed Sulta Rosa, a new luxury coffee and dessert destination from Dancing with the Stars professionals Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov. The cafe pairs specialty coffees with handcrafted sweets inspired by flavors from around the world, including pastries, baklava and other confections, in an elegant setting designed for lingering throughout the day. Pho Nam, a new restaurant from the team behind acclaimed Downtown Miami restaurant Tam Tam, debuted this summer with a menu rooted in traditional Vietnamese cooking. Led by Chef Tam Pham and sommelier Harrison Ramhofer, the concept draws inspiration from old-school Saigon noodle shops, with a particular focus on pho alongside traditional dishes, specialty coffees and teas. Casa Rassi opened its first permanent location on Park Avenue in South Beach after beginning as a Miami coffee pop-up. The new cafe gives the locally grown concept a permanent neighborhood home and adds to Miami Beach’s growing specialty coffee scene. Manoli opened in Coconut Grove in July, bringing Greek and Mediterranean flavors to Main Highway under Chef Emmanouil “Manoli” Aslanoglou. The restaurant features shareable plates, fresh seafood, house-made pastas and grilled specialties, drawing on recipes and flavors from the chef’s heritage and international culinary experience. CHO Funky Asian Bistro is now serving guests in Miami Beach’s Sunset Harbour neighborhood. From the team behind Pubbelly, the new restaurant showcases Japanese, Chinese and Southeast Asian influences in a bold, playful take on Asian dining. Oleta River Grill is now open at Oleta River State Park, offering visitors a new waterfront dining destination serving fresh seafood, tacos, burgers and Caribbean-inspired fare, with convenient access for kayakers, cyclists and park visitors exploring Biscayne Bay. Novotel Miami Brickell has launched a new weekend brunch experience at Vista Rooftop Bar & Lounge and UVA Restaurant & Bar. Offered Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., the menus pair reimagined comfort dishes with two-hour bottomless drink packages. Guests can choose open-air dining and skyline views at Vista or a relaxed, bistro-style setting at UVA. Red Rooster Overtown is celebrating its fifth anniversary with the debut of the limited-time J. Scott Burger, created in partnership with University of Miami Football Player Justin Scott and made with ingredients sourced from Dunn’s Overtown Farm. A portion of proceeds from the specialty burger will support the NonProfit farm’s work to improve food access and community education in Overtown. New Attractions & Experiences Gibson will open Gibson Garage Miami in Wynwood on Thursday, September 10th, 2026 bringing the iconic music brand’s immersive retail concept to South Florida. The third Gibson Garage worldwide, joining Nashville and London, the 8,000-Square-Foot destination will feature more than 500 guitars, a live performance stage, exclusive merchandise and the first U.S. Gibson Gallery showcasing music-inspired art and memorabilia. Visitors to Sunny Isles Beach can now stop by the city’s new Welcome Center at Gateway Center for destination information, local recommendations and visitor resources. The facility also offers branded merchandise and serves as a convenient hub for learning about dining, shopping, attractions and city programs. The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts has unveiled its 2026 - 2027 Arsht Impact Season, featuring more than a dozen free and pay-what-you-can cultural events celebrating the diverse communities that shape Greater Miami & Miami Beach. The lineup includes Dia de Muertos festivities, gospel celebrations, hip-hop performances, Haitian cultural programming, wellness experiences and family-friendly events. The Betsy - South Beach presents From Venice With Love, a hotel-wide exhibition by internationally acclaimed Miami-based Haitian artist Edouard Duval-Carrie, on view through Sunday, November 15th, 2026. Curated by Pulitzer Prize-winning Haitian-American visual historian Carl-Philippe Juste, the exhibition spans galleries, public spaces and the iconic “Betsy Orb,” showcasing the artist’s mixed-media works exploring Caribbean history, migration, memory and identity. The works will be accompanied by free public programming, including artist talks, live music and cultural conversations, further highlighting The Betsy’s longstanding commitment to the arts and culture. Events Miami Spice Restaurant Months | Through September 30th The Pilates Journal Expo at Loews Miami Beach Hotel | September 12-13th Bugtopia at Zoo Miami | Through October 31st To stay up to date on openings, announcements and timely news throughout the destination, visit: https://MiamiandMiamiBeach.com . And follow: @VisitMiami on Social Media. About the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) is an accredited, independent, Not-For-Profit sales and marketing organization whose mission is to attract visitors to Greater Miami & Miami Beach for leisure, business, meetings and conventions. For a vacation guide, visit: https://MiamiandMiamiBeach.com . Or call: 1 (888) 76-Miami (U.S./Canada only). Or: (305) 447-7777. To reach the GMCVB offices, call: (305) 539-3000. Meeting planners may call: 1 (800) 933-8448 (U.S./Canada only). Or: (305) 539-3071. Or visit: https://MiamiMeetings.com . To get further engaged with Greater Miami & Miami Beach, join the conversation by following on Social Media at: www.Facebook.com/visitmiami . Visit: www.X.com/visitmiami . Visit: www.Instagram.com/visitmiami . And: www.Pinterest.com/visit_miami . Photo credit : Provided by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau www.miamiandmiamibeach.com . South Beach presents From Venice With Love at The Betsy. Greater Miami & Miami Beach is buzzing this quarter with notable hotel developments. JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa is offering several new guest experiences, including Cascata Sunset Sips, a weekly Saturday cocktail series. Previous Next

Hollywood Celebrates Two Major Milestones with Groundbreaking and Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies September 5, 2024 Share On Monday, September 9th, the City of Hollywood will hold events to mark the milestones of two major projects, both made possible by the 2019 voter-approved General Obligation Bond. The day will begin with the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the new Hollywood Police Department Headquarters at 10 a.m. at 400 Entrada Drive. This long-awaited project will usher in the construction of a state-of-the-art, approximately 100,000 sq ft facility, which will be built just south of the current headquarters. The new building will feature a secured parking structure, a new radio tower, and all the essential public safety equipment necessary to support the Department's evolving needs for years to come. The project is expected to be completed by Q2 of 2026. Attendees can find public and media parking available at the Orangebrook Golf and Country Club parking lots, as well as along Entrada Drive. Later that day, at 4 p.m., the festivities will continue with the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the newly renovated Armory Community Center at Dowdy Field, located at 906 North Dixie Highway. The park itself was named after Earl T. "Pop" Dowdy, a well-loved manager of the town's Piggly Wiggly grocery store and a passionate supporter of local baseball leagues. Located in the city's south-central section on Johnson Street, Dowdy Field was a symbol of community spirit and shared experiences for decades. Adjacent to Dowdy Field stood the National Guard Armory, originally built in 1954 by the United States Army and home to the Florida National Guard's First Battalion 124th Infantry until 2018, this historic building has been transformed into a dynamic and modern indoor sports complex and community center. The nearly 7,000 sq ft of revitalized space now includes a regulation basketball court, two soccer goals, a regulation volleyball court, and retractable batting cages for pitching and batting practice. The facility also boasts ADA-compliant restrooms, office space, a break room, and flexible community meeting rooms. Event parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Armory and Dowdy Field parking lots, as well as along N 22nd Avenue. The City of Hollywood invites all community members to join in these momentous events as we celebrate both the groundbreaking of a crucial public safety facility and the completion of a vibrant community hub, both of which promise to enhance the quality of life for all Hollywood residents. To learn more about the new Hollywood Police Department Headquarters, visit: https://newhollywoodpolicehq.com < Previous News Next News >

The Hemispheres Fire: Condo & City Officials Worked Together To Create A Game Plan Thu Jun 23 2022 04:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)