Aventura Branch Library Happenings: Classic Board Games for Adults, Renaissance Dance, e-Device Help And Much More November 16, 2022 Share The Aventura Branch Library has a wide variety of On-line and In-Person events. There will be Talk, Read, Sing for Toddlers, a Book Discussion Group, Building Blocks Family Club 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 Online Event: Wisdom Circle Thursday, November 17th, 2022, 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Join us to share your special knowledge or offer advice about a life experience important to you. Both speakers and listeners are welcome. Space is limited. Registration is required. Zoom link will be emailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. Ages 19 years+. Online Event: College Planning for High School Students Thursday, November 17th, 2022, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Are you a high school student getting ready for college? Join author and college expert Valarie R. Austin as she guides students through their college planning checklist. Registration is required. Zoom link will be emailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. Ages 14 years+. Classic Board Games for Adults Friday, November 18th, 2022, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Join us in auditorium the for an afternoon of old school games like chess, checkers, Scrabble, Monopoly, or mancala! Relax, meet new friends, practice your skills, or learn a new game! Use one of ours, or feel free to bring your own. Ages 19 years+. Online Event: Create a 3D Totem Pole Saturday, November 19th, 2022, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Join art instructor Barbara Freiberg and learn how to create a three-dimensional piece inspired by the carved monuments created by First Nations tribes of the Pacific Northwest. Space is limited for this online event held in the Northeast-Dade Aventura Virtual Programs Room. Registration is required. Zoom link will be emailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. Ages 6 - 11 years. Renaissance Dance Saturday, November 19th, 2022, 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Lets dance! Join us and the Society of Creative Anachronism in person for a bit of history through Renaissance Dance. Learn the ancient dances of Italy, France, and England - the building blocks of American Square dancing. Ages 12 years+. Online Event: Book Discussion - The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein Saturday, November 19th, 2022, 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Join your peers online for a lively book discussion. Registration is required. Zoom link will be emailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. Ages 19 years+. Building Blocks Family Club Saturday, November 19th, 2022, 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Join us for an hour of family fun building and creating with our building blocks. Themes, challenges and building block pieces will be provided. Space is limited. Registration is encouraged. Ages 6 years+. Talking is Teaching: Talk, Read, Sing for Toddlers Monday, November 21st, 2022, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Join us for stories, songs, and activities for toddlers and their caregivers. Enjoy stories, music, and playtime. Registration required. For more information, contact: (305) 931-5512. Ages 18 months - 3 years. Online Event: Falun Gong Meditation & Exercises Wednesday, November 23rd, 2022, 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Falun Gong is an ancient, high level Chinese practice that uses gentle movements and meditation to cultivate the body, mind and spirit. Space is limited for this online event. Registration is required. Zoom link will be emailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. Ages 19 years+. e-Device Help Wednesday, November 23rd, 2022 & Wednesday, November 30th, 2022, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Need help with your electronic device? Instructors from Generation Technology will be available to offer assistance. Please bring your device for hands-on learning. Registration is required. For more information, contact the branch. Ages 19 years+. Color Your Cares Away Wednesday, November 30th, 2022, 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Relax and relieve stress while coloring to the soft sound of relaxing music. Choose from a variety of colors. Registration is required. Please contact the branch for more information. Ages 19 years+. Classic Board Games for Adults Friday, December 2nd, 2022, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Join us in the auditorium for an afternoon of old school games like chess, checkers, Scrabble, Monopoly, or mancala! Relax, meet new friends, practice your skills, or learn a new game! Use one of ours, or feel free to bring your own. Ages 19 years+. Some of the above events require pre-registration. 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 >

FREE Microchips Available: This Could Mean The Difference For You & Your Pet October 20, 2022 Share Thanks to a recent Grant from the ASPCA and Subaru, The Humane Society Of Broward County will be providing 200 FREE Microchips to pet owners who visit the shelter’s Vaccine Clinic and purchase a Vaccine Package. The clinic is located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. The hours are: Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. with no appointment necessary and it is closed daily from 11:40 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Thanks to technology, a Microchip is the size of a grain of rice and administered under the skin between a pet’s shoulder blades. When a Chip is properly registered it contains the owner’s contact information. Should your pet become lost and taken to a vet’s office or shelter, a scanner is used to see if the animal has a chip and then the owner can be contacted. It is important to understand that a Microchip is not a tracking device. It is also imperative that if you move or change your phone number, that you update the contact information with the Microchip Company. Microchipped pets are reunited with their owners frequently. In April 2019, a 2 1/2 year old German Shepherd named Cedar was reunited with her Southwest Ranches family after being stolen from her home at the age of four months. Found injured in a ditch by law enforcement in Colorado, Cedar was taken to a vet office where a Registered Chip was located by the scanner. She was flown home after she recovered. Should your pet become lost, a Microchip could mean the difference between being reunited quickly or waiting for days, weeks or months in a shelter, rescue or someone’s home hoping you will find your lost pet. According to the AVMA – American Veterinary Medical Association’s website, “A study of more than 7,700 stray animals at animal shelters showed that dogs without Microchips were returned to their owners 21.9% of the time, whereas Microchipped dogs were returned to their owners 52.2% of the time. Cats without Microchips were reunited with their owners only 1.8% of the time, whereas Microchipped cats went back home 38.5% of the time. Lord et al, JAVMA, July 15, 2009” For Microchipped animals that weren't returned to their owners, most of the time it was due to incorrect owner information or no owner information in the Microchip Registry Database – so don't forget to register and keep your information updated. Microchipping is crucial to your pet’s well-being. In addition, a collar and ID Tag are a visible sign of identification and should be kept on your pet at all times. That way, if your dog or cat wanders from home and is found, you can be reunited quickly. The Humane Society of Broward County is a private, Non-Profit Organization that is not affiliated with any national or local group with a similar name. The shelter’s programs and services are made possible by the generosity of those that want to make a difference for animals and people. To learn more, view pets waiting to meet you, or to make a donation, visit: www.humanebroward.com Or call: (954) 989-3977. Extension#: 6. < Previous News Next News >

Vibrant Spectacle Alert: Moulin Rouge! The Musical Hits Fort Lauderdale November 10, 2023 Share Intrigued by the historical roots of the Moulin Rouge in Paris? Managed by Jean-Jacques Clerico, this iconic venue has been a symbol of Parisian celebration since 1889. What began as a beloved cabaret and dance hall eventually transformed into an internationally renowned music hall, hosting legendary French and international artists. Moulin Rouge! The Musical invites you into a world of opulence and extravagance, where Bohemians and aristocrats mingle in a whirlwind of enchantment. An adaptation of Baz Luhrmann’s Iconic Film, this musical extravaganza celebrates Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and Love, showcasing a rich tapestry of music spanning over 160 years, from Offenbach to Lady Gaga. It pays homage to the original film's iconic songs while infusing recent hits released in the two decades since its premiere. Prepare to be mesmerized by the electrifying allure of Moulin Rouge! The Musical, an exquisite production that has taken the theater world by storm. The Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale Series has announced the groundbreaking arrival of the first North American Tour of this Tony Award®-Winning musical sensation. Set to captivate audiences at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts from March 5th to March 17th, 2024, this grand spectacle promises an unforgettable experience for all. Moulin Rouge! The Musical boasts an impressive collection of accolades, having clinched ten Tony Awards® in 2021, including the coveted Best Musical Title. It's also adorned with two Drama League Awards for Outstanding Production of a Musical, five Drama Desk Awards, and ten Outer Critics Circle Award Honor Citations, affirming its monumental impact on the theatrical landscape. Critically acclaimed for its splendor and allure, the musical initially debuted at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre in the summer of 2019. Despite the Broadway hiatus induced by the COVID-19 Pandemic, it triumphantly reopened in September 2021, drawing accolades and rave reviews from esteemed publications. The New York Times describes it as "Spectacular! Euphoric! In Moulin Rouge! The Musical, life is beautiful," while the New York Post hails it as "a fabulous new musical" that delivers an instant high upon entering the theater. Entertainment Weekly speculates that it could be a production that endures for 50 years, emphasizing its timeless appeal. Helmed by a stellar creative team, the musical is directed by Tony Award Winner Alex Timbers, featuring a book by Tony Award Winner John Logan, Choreography by Tony Award Winner Sonya Tayeh, and Music Supervision, Orchestrations, and Arrangements by Tony Award Winner Justin Levine. The elaborate design is crafted by a lineup of accomplished artists, including Tony Award Winners Derek McLane (Sets), Catherine Zuber (Costumes), Justin Townsend (Lighting), Peter Hylenski (Sound), David Brian Brown (Wig and Hair Design), Sarah Cimino (Make-Up Design), and Matt Stine (Music Producer). Casting is skillfully managed by Jim Carnahan and Stephen Kopel. Produced by Carmen Pavlovic and Gerry Ryan OAM for Global Creatures, alongside Bill Damaschke, and managed by Foresight Theatrical, the touring production includes an array of distinguished Co-Producers who have contributed to its grandeur and success. For more than a century, the Moulin Rouge has been an embodiment of vivacious extravagance, inviting all to partake in the emotional and effervescent experience of a unique party. Prepare to be dazzled as Moulin Rouge! The Musical brings its unparalleled spectacle to Fort Lauderdale. Secure your seats and be ready to be swept away by this larger-than-life theatrical masterpiece that promises an experience beyond compare. Don't miss your chance to immerse yourself in this enchanting world of glamor and romance. Tickets for this extraordinary event start at just $45.00 and can be secured through: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - Or by contacting the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office directly at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For group bookings of ten or more, a dedicated line is available at: (954) 660-6307. < Previous News Next News >

Sexy, Savvy 70-Year-Old: A New Kind of Hero for the Modern Era January 26, 2024 Share Sexy, intelligent and resourceful septuagenarian Lori Brill finds herself caught in the web of a murder investigation during what should have been an enjoyable vacation in London to visit her granddaughter in the lively, award-winning mystery from Charlene Wexler, Murder Across the Ocean. As the story begins, Lori, a silver-haired spitfire long divorced from her alcoholic husband, enjoys an unexpected night of passion in a London hotel with old flame Josh Wheeler. Like Lori, Josh’s looks and appetite for adventure belie his 70-plus years, and Lori finds herself mesmerized by his blue eyes and sweet talk. Lori is all smiles as she steps out of the shower the next morning — until she sees his bloody corpse lying in the bed where they had just made love. The London police naturally suspect Lori, but the case becomes infinitely more complicated when it’s discovered that plenty of people have a motive to murder Josh. On the case is Scotland Yard Inspector Geoffrey Holmes, American FBI agent Jordan Gould, and Lori’s granddaughter Cate and her fiancé, Joseph, who both happen to be London solicitors. Sparks fly, as Cate and Jordan Gould experience a growing mutual attraction, as do Lori and Inspector Holmes. Adding another twist is that Lori’s family has an unforeseen connection to Joseph’s father, Lord Roger Lunt, and to the wealthy German nobleman Baron Joseph Braun and the horror of the Holocaust. So who killed Josh? Was it Josh’s beautiful girlfriend Suzi, who unexpectedly appears in London? Josh’s Chinese financial backers? British mobsters, who kidnap Lori in an attempt to find Josh’s hidden millions? Was it Baron Braun, who summons Lori to Germany to tell her a 70-year-old secret? Or was it someone else entirely? Murder Across the Ocean can be read as a standalone murder mystery or as the follow-up to Wexler’s book, Lori, the origin story of the plucky protagonist. “Lori Brill combines the unexpected smarts of Miss Marple; the genteel strength of character and family circle of Jessica Fletcher; and the hard-boiled sexiness of V.I. Warshawski,” Wexler said. “Readers who enjoy books about those characters will enjoy Murder Across the Ocean. Mature female readers, who have not yet found a hero who is like them, will at last have one in Lori Brill.” About the Author A native Chicagoan, Charlene Wexler has been a teacher, wife, dental office manager, mother and grandmother. In retirement, her lifelong passion for writing has led her to create several essays and novels. Her other books include Murder on Skid Row, Milk and Oranges, Lori and Elephants In The Room. Her newest books, Farewell To South Shore and We Won't Go Back, are scheduled for publication in 2024. Her work has also appeared in Chicago Magazine, The Chicago Tribune, The Northwest Herald, The JUF Magazine, the Gazette newspaper of Chicago, North Shore Magazine, the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry’s Vision magazine, Alpha Omegan magazine and several blogs. For more information, please visit http://www.charlenewexler.com/ Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CDDX6GW7 < Previous News Next News >

Let's Feed South Florida: Inaugural Gala To Raise Crucial Funds To Fight Food Insecurity Thu Aug 08 2024 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Broward Performing Arts Foundation’s Annual Reception And Brunch Kicks Off Broward Center’s 2025-2026 Performance Season South Florida Sun Times Dec 25, 2025 The Broward Performing Arts Foundation Annual Reception And Brunch Kicked Off The New Season For Donors And Benefactors With A Look Back At History And A Preview Of The Programming To Come At The Broward Center For The Performing Arts. The Event, Generously Underwritten By J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., Had A Decidedly French Theme With Guests Arriving To Have Their Photos Taken Before A Backdrop Of The Eiffel Tower. Highlighting the Annual Reception was a presentation by award-winning author, historian, master storyteller, and distinguished professor of American History at Lynn University Dr. Robert Watson, who brought to life the history behind the show that revolutionized Broadway musicals, the Tony Award-winning Les Miserables, coming to the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center from Tuesday, December 16th, 2025 - Sunday, December 28th, 2025. Broward Performing Arts Foundation President Lisa Kitei welcomed guests, introduced the board and announced two upcoming fundraisers for the Broward Center: Winter Wonderland A “Frozen” Family Celebration on Sunday, December 14th, 2025 and the Foundation’s 2026 Annual Celebration with Darius Rucker on Saturday, March 7th. Tables for the Annual Celebration pre-show dinner are sold out; however, VIP tickets for lower orchestra seating and the post-show tailgate party are still available. Foundation Board Chair Dev Motwani spoke about his connection to the Broward Center starting at an early age. “My high school graduation was one of the first held here. I had the good fortune of speaking as valedictorian at the ceremony, so to be here speaking before you now as Board Chair, I have come full circle.” Motwani, who was reintroduced to the Broward Center when he served as Chair of the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Economic Development Advisory Board, said, “It was then when I started to understand the Broward Center’s true economic impact. What your support does here for the community helps fund the largest free arts education program in the United States benefiting more than 100,000 students from 150 Broward schools annually through more than 50 education programs.” Broward Center President and CEO Ty Sutton previewed highlights of the upcoming season, including the Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale series and the MD Now Slow Burn Theatre Company series. “At a time where we see arts groups throughout the United States, especially some of the largest performing arts centers, reducing programs, we keep expanding and growing and that is thanks to all of you,” Sutton said. “I am excited for this upcoming season.” For nearly 40 years, the Broward Performing Arts Foundation has been instrumental in providing support for the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The Foundation was established in 1985 to deliver the required private funding to build the Center and create an endowment to sustain its operations. Over the years, the Foundation has successfully raised funds to support the Broward Center’s innovative and diverse programming, arts-in-education initiatives, community engagement activities and capital projects. In 2021, the Foundation completed a $30 million capital campaign to renovate and restore the iconic Parker Playhouse. Prior to this, it raised $60 million to complete the Encore! capital campaign to renovate, renew and revitalize the Broward Center. For more information about the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, call: (954) 468-3284. Or email: Foundation@BrowardCenter.org . About The Broward Center for the Performing Arts One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 850 performances each year to more than 600,000 patrons, displaying a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level, the Nicklaus Children’s Health System Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion and innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. With one of the largest arts-in-education programs in the United States, the Broward Center serves more than 100,000 students annually. The Broward Center also manages The Parker, an iconic Fort Lauderdale venue, the Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on the campus of Nova Southeastern University and the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in Miami-Dade County. The Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Inc. receives and maintains funds to sustain, develop and secure the future of the Broward Center. The Broward Center is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org . Dev Motwani, Dr. Robert Watson, Polly Sutton, Ty Sutton, Lisa Kitei (Photo Credit: Downtown Photo) Dr. Robert Watson, Rick Thill (JPMorgan Chase), Ty Sutton, Carole Bowen Ann M. Burris and Jon Hines Charlie Ladd, Valerie Peru, Brooke Lochrie, Robert Lochrie Sonia Gleit, Michael Gleit, Suzanne Scharf, Bernard Scharf Sharon Florescue, Carole Nugent, Dr. Robert Watson, Bonnie Barnett, Carol Kalagher, Ladan Patel, Sophia Mylona Soneet Kapila and Dr. Prabodh Kapila Linda Von Allmen and Douglas Von Allmen Todd Lard and Brian Huseman Wayne Weiner, and Lucretia Weiner Previous Next

Back-To-School Savings: Your Comprehensive Guide To Florida's Sales Tax Holidays January 11, 2024 Share Florida gears up for an annual event that has become a crucial window of opportunity for savvy shoppers—the Back-To-School Sales Tax Holiday. These designated periods offer consumers the chance to snag essential items without shouldering the burden of Sales Tax, helping families save significantly on their Back-To-School Shopping. With the 2024 Tax Holiday currently underway until the 14th, here's everything you need to know to make the most of these advantageous periods. 1. What Items Qualify For Exemption?: During the Back-To-School Sales Tax Holiday 2024 starting on Monday, January 1st, 2024 and ending on Sunday, January 14th, 2024, specific categories of items enjoy Exemption from Sales Tax and these include: • Clothing, Footwear And Accessories: Priced at $100 or less Per Item. • School Supplies: With a Sales Price of $50 or less Per Item. • Learning Aids And Jigsaw Puzzles: Valued at $30 or less. • Personal Computers and Related Accessories: For Non-Commercial Home or Personal Use, up to $1,500 Per Item. • A comprehensive list of exempt items is provided by the Florida Department of Revenue including: Personal Computers, School Supplies like Pens and Notebooks, Clothing Items, and Learning Aids. For more items on the list, visit: www.floridarevenue.com 2. Exceptions To The Exemption: It's important to note that items exceeding the specified price limits will not qualify for the Tax Exemption. For instance, if a single item costs more than $100 for clothing or $50 for school supplies, it will not be eligible for the Tax-FREE Benefit. 3. No Limit On Quantity: Unlike some promotions that cap the number of discounted items, the Sales Tax Holiday Exemption is based on the sales price of each eligible item, not the quantity purchased. Shoppers can leverage this advantage without any restriction on the number of qualifying items. 4. Understanding Learning Aids: The term "Learning Aids" encompasses various Educational Tools, such as: Flashcards, Memory Games, Puzzle Books, Interactive Educational Toys and more. These aids, priced at $30 or less, fall under the Tax-Exempt category during the Sales Tax Holiday. 5. Items Not Covered: Certain items do not qualify for the Exemption, including: Clothing exceeding $100, School Supplies above $50, Learning Aids exceeding $30, Books not otherwise Exempt, Computers exceeding $1,500, items for Commercial Purposes, Rentals, and more. 6. Mixed Purchases: When purchasing a package containing both Taxable and Tax-Exempt Items, Sales Tax must be calculated on the entire package or set, even if it contains qualifying items. 7. Special Offers: Promotions like: "Buy One, Get One FREE" or "Buy One, Get One For A Reduced Price" cannot be averaged to meet Exemption Criteria. The total price of the items determines their Tax Status. 8. Online Purchases: Online Purchases qualify for Exemption if the order is accepted by the company during the Sales Tax Holidays, regardless of the delivery date. 9. Refunds For Tax Errors: In case a seller mistakenly charges Sales Tax for an Exempt Item, customers can request a refund from the selling dealer. If unresolved, reporting the issue to the Department of Revenue is an option. 10. Responsibility And Additional Information: The Florida Legislature establishes the Sales Tax Holidays and the items eligible for Exemption. For inquiries about specific items or additional information, consumers can contact the Florida Department of Revenue directly. The 2024 Florida Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday presents an excellent opportunity for consumers to save on essential purchases for the upcoming school year. By understanding the qualifying items, limitations, and terms of the Exemption, shoppers can make informed decisions to maximize their savings during these designated periods. For a comprehensive overview of all Tax Relief Holidays outlined by House Bill 7063, including their respective timeframes, consumers can refer to the Florida Department of Revenue's website for printable calendars and detailed information: www.floridarevenue.com Remember to plan ahead, make a list of necessities, and take advantage of this cost-saving opportunity. Your preparation can translate into significant savings while ensuring a smooth transition back to school. For a complete list of qualifying items visit: https://floridarevenue.com/backtoschool/Pages/default.aspx < Previous News Next News >

Unwrap A Delightful Holiday Treat in Ft. Lauderdale - Slow Burn Theatre Company Presents "Anastasia The Musical" For All Ages Thu Dec 12 2024 20:45:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hey Boomers: The 1980's is Calling: The Newest Addition to the 2024 Summer Olympics Thu May 04 2023 16:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

"Celebrating Hallandale Beach First Responders" Mayor Joy Cooper Recognizes Dedication and Community Support Thu Aug 17 2023 16:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Gospel Music Legend, Bill Gaither Kicks Off 2025 Love Like I’m Leaving Tour In Florida February 20, 2025 Share Multi-Grammy Award winning recording artist, Bill Gaither will kick off the LOVE LIKE I’M LEAVING Tour this Spring, as he brings his multi-award winning group, The Gaither Vocal Band to 16 cities during February, March, April and May. The first weekend of stops will take place in multiple cities throughout Florida, including the stop at the Community Christian Church, located at 10001 West Commercial Boulevard, Tamarac, Florida 33351 on Thursday, February 20th. For nearly half a century, Gaither, a multiple Grammy and Dove award winner, has been a musical trailblazer. Together with his long-time songwriter partner and wife, Gloria, the two have collectively written more than 900 songs and were honored to be named ASCAP Christian Songwriters of the Century. The couple’s reputation as performers, songwriters and mentors for newly-discovered artists is known world-wide. Their beloved series of Homecoming CDs and DVDs continues to top the sales charts and attract an ever-increasing audience. Honors and accolades have flowed their way in bunches, including the most recent Grammy nomination for Best Roots Gospel Album of the Year for the Gaither Vocal Band Shine recording, which also received the Dove Award nomination for Southern Gospel Album of the Year from the Gospel Music Association. Taking the stage with Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band during the Spring 2025 LOVE LIKE I’M LEAVING Tour, featuring Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb, Todd Suttles and Reggie Smith, will be popular female vocalist, Ladye Love Smith, talented male vocalist, Gene McDonald and newcomer phenom and The Voice winner, Chris Blue, as well as Gaither’s musical entourage, comprised of Kevin Williams, Matthew Holt and Michael Rowsey. The 2025 Spring Tour affords Gaither the opportunity to continue to share the message he has been proclaiming for nearly seven decades. Considered one of the oldest living musicians who is still actively touring, recording and performing, Gaither, who turns 89 in March, says it’s that desire to spread the message of hope through music that keeps the Indiana native thriving. “The truth is,” Gaither says smiling, “I just love doing what I do, and I believe in the message in the songs. Songs like ‘we have this moment to hold in our hands…’ ‘because He lives I can face tomorrow…’ ‘I just feel like something good is about to happen…’ ‘Jesus only will never fail…’ ‘I’m gonna love like I’m leaving, give more than I’m receiving, laugh until it takes my breath away, say what needs saying, pray what needs praying, I’m gonna love like I’m leaving today…’ - those are pretty important messages. Each night we try to create moments that will allow our audience to walk away feeling differently than when they came. That’s why we continue to do what we do. I still love it!” Tickets for the 2025 LOVE LIKE I’M LEAVING Tour are on sale now. Make plans to join Bill Gaither & The Gaither Vocal Band in Tamarac at the Community Christian Church on Thursday, February 20th. This exciting evening begins at 7:00 p.m. To purchase tickets or obtain additional details, visit: www.gaither.com . < Previous News Next News >

Where Art Meets Ocean - Inside One Of Punta Mita’s Most Inspired Luxury Vacation Villas By Merilee Kern, MBA Jan 1, 2026 For More Than Two Decades: www.mitaresidential.com - Has Perfected The Art Of Private Hospitality—Quietly Shaping How The World’s Most Discerning Travelers Experience Mexico’s Most Exclusive Coastlines. Founded In The Early 2000s And Headquartered In Punta Mita, Which Is Northwest Of Puerto Vallarta, The Company Has Evolved From A Boutique Property Management Firm Into A Full-Service Lifestyle Brand Synonymous With Trust, Transparency And Tailored Luxury. Today, Mita Residential manages and rents more than 120 villas and estates across Mexico’s most prestigious beach destinations, delivering five-star resort services with the intimacy of a private home. Each residence in its portfolio—whether perched above the Pacific in Punta Mita, tucked amid the desert cliffs of Los Cabos or nestled along the turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya—is hand-selected for design excellence, security and location. The company’s meticulous attention to detail has earned recognition as an Airbnb Top Vacation Partner for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean, and it remains celebrated for setting the benchmark in vacation rental hospitality. Guests describe it as “having a resort team inside your home,” while property owners praise its stewardship model that safeguards and enhances long-term value. Private Hospitality Perfected Mita Residential delivers curated residences, personalized concierge planning, seamless full service, absolute discretion, property stewardship, uncompromising safety, complete lifestyle services and fully bespoke experiences. Every stay is supported by advanced security and meticulous care within Mexico’s most secure communities, with bilingual teams anticipating each preference before arrival and coordinating chefs, wellness treatments, transportation and yacht charters. The result is an orchestrated journey for multi-generational family celebrations, intimate executive retreats and long-awaited reunions that feel both effortless and deeply personal. The Quiet Art of Hospitality Behind every Mita Residential villa is a philosophy of absolute discretion, uncompromising safety and handcrafted experiences. Guests can board a private yacht while an in-house chef prepares dinner with local ingredients or enjoy a casual breakfast in pajamas with a mimosa—since comfort is the ultimate luxury. Stays are supported by advanced security, meticulous stewardship and a seamless concierge process that anticipates each preference. As the company expands to Los Cabos and the Riviera Maya, the same standard of warmth and excellence now defines luxury travel on both coasts of Mexico. Mita Residential has earned the confidence of world leaders, Grammy Award–winning artists and Fortune 500 CEOs through a quiet culture of protection. When properties are occupied, they are sanctuaries. When vacant, they are presented with the reverence of a private collection. The promise is simple: Protect what is precious—both the property and the people who inhabit it. Below, Mita Residential CEO Angel Sarmiento provides a deeper dive into what makes this luxury vacation villa rental company so extraordinary, as well as a spotlight look at one of the highly-popular properties in its portfolio. MK: For those unfamiliar with Mita Residential, what defines your brand and what makes it distinct in Mexico’s luxury villa market? AS: We offer Punta Mita’s most extensive collection of distinguished properties, with more than 120 residences representing the peninsula’s largest and most diverse portfolio. Our dedicated in-house team has spent two decades cultivating exclusive relationships and insider access throughout Mexico. Most vacation rental companies outsource services to third parties—we do not. Everything we offer, from chefs and yacht charters to helicopter transfers, is managed by our own trusted network. That allows us to deliver seamless, uncompromising service. MK: What has contributed to Punta Mita remaining one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for high-end travelers? AS: Safety and natural beauty, above all. Punta Mita is consistently rated the safest beach destination in Mexico, where mountain jungle meets the Pacific. Guests come for extraordinary golfing and surfing and stay for the food, with fresh local tuna, shrimp and red snapper often paired with what many tell us is the best margarita they have ever had. It helps that Punta Mita is only two hours from the town of Tequila, Jalisco. MK: Mita Residential is known for its highly-personalized concierge services. How do you tailor the Punta Mita experience for each guest before they even arrive? AS: Every booking triggers contact from our bilingual on-site concierge, who learns the group’s tastes, dietary restrictions and priorities. Tee times, yacht charters, menus and security coordination are handled before arrival. The concierge greets guests personally and the household staff are pre-briefed on each traveler’s needs and itinerary. Anything can be charged to the property, and billing is reviewed at checkout in the privacy of the living room. We have welcomed celebrities, CEOs, athletes and public figures and our goal is always to make luxury feel effortless. MK: Many Punta Mita homes include access to exclusive beach clubs and golf courses. How does this elevate the guest experience compared to other luxury markets? AS: This gated community is regarded as the safest beach destination in Mexico. Guests are not confined to the property, since residences include golf carts to explore the peninsula. That’s where five beach clubs, two Jack Nicklaus golf courses and a village with off-resort dining options await. These courses, run by Four Seasons Resorts, are open only to guests who stay in hotels or residences inside the compound. MK: How do you curate activities so guests can enjoy both adventure and relaxation during their stay? AS: We are never stuffy. Luxury is casual, which is the first step toward relaxing. Some families want a full itinerary months in advance, and we create it. Others wake up and decide to go fishing that day and we will have a boat and crew at our private dock within hours. MK: You have been recognized by Airbnb as one of the best in the region. What standards or practices helped earn that distinction, and how will you continue to grow the brand? AS: We are the No. 1 company for guest experience in Mexico and all Caribbean countries, according to Airbnb—which aligns with our repeat guest rate of about one-third. Earning that required years of work. There are no shortcuts. Every AC unit must be well maintained, and every bedsheet must be ironed and inspected. Our plan is to expand this standard to other luxury destinations in Mexico. We now offer an impressive Cabo portfolio focused on quiet, relaxed luxury for families. MK: Your portfolio ranges from intimate villas to sprawling oceanfront estates. How do you match each guest or family to the perfect property? AS: We encourage guests to call our rental agents, who have each worked at our properties in person—most often as a concierge. If a guest wants a sunset view, the agent can tell them which bedroom faces the sunset because they have been there. If a guest needs extra photos to gauge closet space, they receive them in a few hours. When you are paying for luxury, you deserve that level of service. MK: How do you balance maintaining privacy and exclusivity with showcasing properties to potential guests? AS: When a property is occupied, no one except authorized staff may enter. We have earned the trust of many public figures through quiet, effective security measures and a culture of discretion. MK: What role does sustainability play in how you manage and market Punta Mita properties? AS: Most staff travel using electric cars or golf carts that we charge with in-house solar panels. Punta Mita operates one of Mexico’s best recycling and responsible garbage disposal programs. MK: How has the profile of your guests changed in recent years? AS: Remote workers were a major trend in 2020 through 2023, but that growth has leveled. We now see increasing demand for destination weddings and corporate events, especially for companies with executives in different locations. Thanksgiving and Christmas have also grown in popularity, given easy direct flights and excellent private chefs. MK: What is the magic moment that keeps guests returning to Punta Mita year after year? AS: Every trip is different, yet one memory stands out: a private whale-watching tour. Each group sails with a marine biologist who drops an underwater microphone into the sea. We encountered mothers tending to their newborns, and the choir of their songs moved my mother to tears. Visit: https://youtu.be/UuzmHT1Z91s Spotlight: Casa Yeiya — Art, Ocean, Soul One of the most spectacular properties in the company’s property portfolio is: www.mitaresidential.com/properties/kupuri/casa-yeiya . This six-bedroom, six-and-a-half-bath oceanfront sanctuary in the Kupuri Estates enclave fuses contemporary Mexican artistry with sweeping Pacific views. The vision was to create a space where art flourishes beside coastal luxury. The owner personally selected each piece from Jalisco galleries and artist studios, building relationships with creators who understand the soul of Mexican culture. Palapa-inspired architecture, warm wood tones and natural materials allow the art collection and the ocean to share center stage, so the home feels authentically Mexican and thoroughly sophisticated. MK: How do three words capture the Casa Yeiya experience? AS: Art. Ocean. Soul. Casa Yeiya immerses guests in luxurious Punta Mita comfort while steeping them in culture and breathtaking Pacific views. The curated art takes guests on a journey through Mexico through the eyes of its artists, while the oceanfront setting provides endless natural beauty. The care and soul poured into every detail create a home that guests do not want to leave. MK: In a region where many villas offer pools and views, how does Casa Yeiya set itself apart? AS: Casa Yeiya offers experiences. The private cinema becomes a family tradition, the golf simulator encourages friendly competition and the game room brings generations together. It is an art gallery by day and an entertainment complex by evening—always with full ocean views and dedicated staff ensuring everything flows easily. The owner prefers that guests enjoy the home’s offerings instead of planning excursions, since the property has everything needed. MK: How do two, six-person golf carts and full-time staff shape the stay? AS: These details reflect a philosophy that luxury should be effortless. Guests never worry about transportation or daily needs. A personal cook prepares fresh breakfast without planning, and the concierge arranges spa treatments, cultural outings or yacht charters. It is the difference between a vacation rental and a lifestyle experience. MK: How do guests balance in-villa relaxation with resort activities? AS: The team anticipates every need, so movement between villa and resort amenities is simple. Casa Yeiya includes access to Kupuri Beach Club and multiple Punta Mita amenities, and the staff handles plans so guests can focus on rest or play as they prefer. MK: What makes Casa Yeiya well-suited for multi-generational families or group gatherings? AS: The layout naturally creates spaces for different needs, with quiet art appreciation upstairs and lively entertainment downstairs. Grandparents enjoy culture and views, parents value full service and teenagers are drawn to the game room and cinema. The art collection sparks conversation across generations, and multiple entertaining areas ensure everyone finds a favorite place—with the pool as a central gathering point. MK: Can you share a memorable concierge request that shows Casa Yeiya’s spirit? AS: We organized a sunset tequila tasting around the fire pit for the adults. The children wanted to participate, so the team created a juice tasting on the spot so they could observe colors and scents and feel included with their family. MK: Which architectural or design features make Casa Yeiya stand out in Punta Mita? AS: A monumental whale tail sculpture greets guests at the entrance, signaling that this is not a typical beach house. Crafted from tens of thousands of glass beads using an ancestral local technique, it honors the whale migration at Punta Mita. The seamless integration of gallery spaces and living areas, the monochromatic Xolo dog sculpture and the newspaper portrait collection reveal discoveries at every turn, while palapa-inspired architecture frames art and ocean views. MK: How do you ensure seamless and discreet service for high-profile guests? AS: Punta Mita is ideal for privacy. HOA guidelines ensure no property blocks another’s views or provides visual access into windows or common areas. The full-time staff are on-site, understand discretion and anticipate needs and the layout provides natural privacy with separate zones for retreat and activity. MK: Which seasons or events make Casa Yeiya especially attractive? AS: Whale-watching season, from November to March, transforms the infinity pool into front-row seating for nature’s greatest show. The outdoor pizza oven makes December celebrations special and the cinema is a perfect refuge during occasional summer rains. The art and ocean views make every season extraordinary. The Next Chapter: A Nationwide Expansion In July 2025, Mita Residential announced a landmark expansion into Los Cabos and the Riviera Maya, adding 37 premier homes to its growing portfolio—with 27 along the Pacific coast in Los Cabos and 10 on the Caribbean shores of the Riviera Maya. “Expanding to Los Cabos and the Riviera Maya is more than just growth—it is a natural extension of our promise to deliver unforgettable moments to both our guests and homeowners,” Sarmiento said. “We are proud to bring our signature blend of personalized service, exclusivity and warmth to two of the world’s most iconic beach destinations.” In Los Cabos, desert landscapes meet the Sea of Cortez in a dramatic canvas of light. Here, Mita Residential’s collection of oceanfront estates include private pools, chef services and sea-view terraces. In the Riviera Maya, the focus turns to the Caribbean’s gentle rhythm, with 10 homes located in Tulum and the Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve, surrounded by pristine beaches and Mayan heritage. This dual-coast expansion positions Mita Residential to support homeowners and travelers across every stage—from property care and staffing to guest curation and concierge logistics. As Mita Residential continues to expand its reach across Mexico’s most coveted coastlines, the company’s ethos remains rooted in something timeless: the belief that true luxury is felt, not flaunted. Whether experienced in the hushed calm of Casa Yeiya or the curated ease of a family retreat in Los Cabos, Mita’s world is one where art, nature and hospitality converge—where every detail whispers, rather than shouts, of care. Merilee Kern, MBA Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. As Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee is a prolific business, lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker. She keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at: www.TheLuxeList.com - Instagram: www.Instagram.com/MerileeKern - Twitter: www.Twitter.com/MerileeKern - Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial - LinkedIN: www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern . ***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.*** Previous Next