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 >

8 Smart Ways to Save On Holiday Expenses Thu Nov 23 2023 17:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Mastering The Subtle Art Of Sustainable Luxury - This Miami Beach Standout Is Setting A New Standard For Conscious Comfort By Merilee Kern, MBA Dec 17, 2025 On Collins Avenue In Miami’s Upscale Mid-Beach District, The Palms Hotel & Spa Feels Different The Moment You Step Inside. The Property Reads Like A Nature-First Oasis That Just Happens To Be Oceanfront, And The Result Is A Style Of Hospitality That Favors Ease Over Spectacle And Ritual Over Trend. In a city known for its flash, The Palms stands out for the opposite reason. The experience here is founded on simplicity, calm and connection; to nature, to the community, and to a slower sense of time. What you do not see is as important as what you do. The hotel doesn’t announce its sustainability initiatives; it weaves them into everyday operations so seamlessly that guests often notice only after the fact. Bottled water comes in aluminum or glass instead of plastic. Bath amenities in large-scale 100% recycled ocean-bound plastic containers replace single-use plastics without compromising style or scent. Heat-sensor lighting and A/C, quick-dry bathrobes, and air purification systems support both comfort and conservation. Outside, the gardens serve more than an aesthetic role. They cool the property naturally and create a quiet refuge just steps from the beach. Their in-house “Fill-S-Bucket” Program invites guests to learn about and preserve the marine and beach environment if they want, and step back into vacation mode when they are done Partnerships with local educators, like Blue Scholars Initiative and environmental non-profits, like the Surfrider Foundation or the Coral Restoration Foundation, help raise further awareness of marine conservation and protection. Balance is the point. Sustainability supports the stay, not the other way around. The Palms AVEDA Spa extends that everyday wellness idea rather than separating it. Service rituals draw on botanicals and Ayurvedic traditions with relaxation areas and treatment rooms tucked near water features and greenery. Book a service and you can drift between pool, beach and relaxation areas in a way that feels natural. Essensia, the signature on-site restaurant, is another standout feature where the property’s ethos becomes obvious without anyone saying a word. Menus change with the season, so flavors are bright and clean. Produce is mindfully sourced and comes from local farms and trusted purveyors wherever possible. Wines lean organic and sustainable. Cocktails respect fresh herbs and fruit. What lands on the table feels light, satisfying and rooted here. Collectively, The Palms exemplifies that sustainability doesn’t have to interrupt comfort, and that stellar hospitality can do the right thing without sacrificing standards. Below, Tanja Morariu, the property’s Director of Marketing and Head of Sustainability, provides greater insight on the many reasons The Palms is a true standout in Miami Beach. MK: First, what might visitors not know about the property but should? TM: The Palms is family-owned and operated, by the same family since 1989. The property offers private access to the beach and a connection to the public beachwalk on one of the widest stretches of beach in Miami, with exclusive access to sun loungers, cabanitas, and beach service. The combination of wellness and sustainability is foundational here, not just a marketing angle. Since 2010, the hotel has integrated sustainable practices into all aspects of operation, including rooms, spa, food and guest engagement, alongside wellness initiatives that reflect our “Inspired by Nature” philosophy for more than 15 years. The Palms is also a proud member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Beyond Green and holds a AAA Four Diamond rating. MK: The hotel prides itself on combining "laid-back sophistication" with "oceanfront serenity." How does the hotel’s service and design reflect this philosophy? TM: The decor leans into natural, relaxing sand, sea and nature tones, plus lush tropical gardens. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, rain showers, and soft linens. The ambiance balances luxury with comfort; you don’t feel overly formal. The gardens, water features, tropical planting, palms, and greenery enhance its Art Deco oceanfront architecture, making it a real sanctuary. The service is genuine, attentive and warm, not stiff and rehearsed. We emphasize wellness and sustainability, which tends toward more personalized, mindful guest experiences. Its location is oceanfront, in the more sophisticated and tranquil part of Miami Beach, providing for more “serene beach” vibes enhanced by private beach amenities, a direct beach walk, and tropical gardens offering “oceanfront serenity.” These together make The Palms Hotel & Spa unique and set us apart from the high-energy South Beach properties. MK: The hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites. What are some of the key differences and unique features of the different accommodation options? TM: We have several room types to fit the needs of diverse travelers, from Standard Rooms, City View Rooms, Partial Ocean View, and Oceanfront Rooms with 1 King or 2 Double beds, Deluxe Partial Ocean View,), Superior Oceanfront or Deluxe Oceanfront with 1 King and 1 Sleeper sofa, and then Suites (Junior Suites and One Bedroom Suites). Our Oceanfront One-Bedroom Suites are our largest room types, with around 790 square feet, and feature a separate bedroom with a King bed, a living room including a full-size pull-out sofa bed, and an expansive balcony overlooking the ocean, pool, and gardens. It is ideal for couples wanting more space, or families. All rooms offer a soothing decor and feature high thread-count linens, pillow-top mattresses, lightweight down comforters, fully stocked minibar/tea and coffee stations, air purification, streaming entertainment, bathrobes and slippers, as well as rain showers. There are ADA and accessible rooms in many categories, both City View and Oceanfront, with lowered fixtures, wider doors, and other features ideal for mobility needs. Suites have balconies, and oceanfront ones provide panoramic ocean, pool, and garden views. All rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views either of Miami Beach or the Miami cityscape. If you want a romantic stay with sunrise over the water, an Oceanfront, Superior or Deluxe Oceanfront Room, or even a one-bedroom suite with a balcony is ideal. If you are traveling with your family or a group, or need a sleeper sofa, a Superior Oceanfront, Deluxe Oceanfront, or Suite would work best for you. If the budget is more moderate, partial views or city views still offer all the amenities as well as the comforting touch. MK: The on-site AVEDA lifestyle spa is a prominent feature. What are some of the signature treatments or wellness programs offered? TM: AVEDA’s core is botanical, nature-derived, and holistic wellness. The Palms AVEDA Spa’s therapies are centered around Ayurvedic traditions, combining plant-based products, essential oils, aromatherapy, and energy balancing. The spa is meant to nurture body, mind, and soul while the ambiance is nature-inspired and tranquil, with water features, gardens, and natural materials. The facilities include five secluded treatment rooms, a Duet Suite for couples with side-by-side massage beds with a private snail shower with rain, side jets, and tropic jets, as well as an outdoor treatment cabana for al-fresco experiences. There is also a relaxation room with an indoor/outdoor relaxation area, outdoor waterfall and steam rooms well as a full hair, nail, and beauty salon onsite. Signature treatments include the Tropical Island Massage, a customizable aromatic massage that renews skin and soothes the soul; the Zen Ayurvedic Massage, a full-body treatment using warm nutrient-rich oils infused with rice, soy, sesame, and crushed stone pindas; the Chakra Balancing Experience, which uses Chakra-specific aromas, stones, sound, and mid-pressure massage; the Botanical Skin Resurfacing Facial, a plant-based alternative to microdermabrasion; and the Zen Garden Cabana Signature Experience, a multi-sensory journey in our outdoor garden that includes massage, face mask, body peel and open-air rinse. In addition, The Palms AVEDA Spa offers a wellness program with daily yoga and meditation practice. garden- or beach-side, along with a fitness center and holistic wellness packages. As a non-hotel guest spa visitor, you will receive complimentary access to the pool, beach, and fitness room for the day if you book full-priced spa services of 50 minutes or more excluding hair/nails. MK: The on-site Essensia Restaurant is described as focusing on global flavors, locally inspired, and mindfully sourced cuisine. What is the inspiration behind this unique culinary concept, and what steps does the restaurant take to ensure its ingredients are mindfully sourced? TM: Essensia’s philosophy is offering “mindfully sourced, healthfully crafted” dishes with international influences. Dishes reflect seasonal menus, local produce, and a farm-to-table approach. The ambiance is tropical, indoor/outdoor, with vegetation and lighting as well as the vicinity to water features that evoke calm and romance. Essensia sources from local farms and purveyors wherever possible, offering seafood and meats that are hormone-free or sustainable, and uses organic or naturally grown ingredients where possible. Essensia has been a Slow Food Miami “Snail of Approval” recipient since 2011 and is also recognized as a Surfrider Foundation Ocean Friendly Restaurant. Practices include seasonal rotation of menus so ingredients remain fresh and local, reducing plastics and eliminating Styrofoam, and a beverage program emphasizing organic and sustainable wines. Cocktails use fresh fruits and herbs, often locally sourced. MK: Beyond the pool and beach, the hotel is known for its lush tropical gardens. How is this intended to impact the guest experience? TM: The gardens are not just landscaping; they are part of the holistic guest experience where people can enjoy pathways, shade, and immersive ambiance. They complement the oceanfront with greenspace, add sounds of nature, cooling effects, and scents, and create a secluded hideaway from the city. The gardens are also used for private functions, including outdoor dining by the gardens, romantic dinners, and Essensia’s outdoor seating, which features lanterns and lush views. Garden yoga and wellness classes are held outdoors, and the garden spaces, including a romantic gazebo, are used for wedding ceremonies and special events in our lush, scenic setting. MK: The Palms Hotel & Spa has been recognized for its romantic offerings, even winning various awards. What services and venues does the hotel offer that make it a premier destination for weddings and special events? TM: The property features 8,000 square feet of indoor event and meeting space and 11,000 square feet of outdoor al fresco event space, including multiple meeting rooms, ballrooms, private dining areas and outdoor spaces such as our Veranda Terrace or Grand Tiki. Banquet and catering planning is handled with attention to detail in aesthetically pleasing settings that include our gardens and oceanfront, paired with premium quality food and beverage service. Bridal spa services for hair and makeup preparation are also available in the spa. Unique romantic touches throughout the property, such as oceanfront views, spacious suites with balconies, romantic dinners, and a garden ambiance, make it ideal for couples. Proposal packages for ocean- or garden-side “I do’s” are available as well. The Knot Best of Weddings recognition underlines our reputation and consistency in service. MK: What is your personal favorite aspect of the property, whether in its physical attributes or guest experience? TM: If I had to pick one thing: the gardens and the connection to nature. Not just that we have tropical landscaping, but the way gardens, ocean, spa, and wellness are interwoven; walking paths, water features, and the calm that buffers city stress. For me, that slowdown and sensory immersion in green, water, and ocean, combined with comfort, service and sustainability, is what makes this property feel special. It’s more than location; it’s how all the parts—design, service, food, sustainability—support that feeling of total well-being, inspired by nature. A Property with Purpose The Palms Hotel & Spa isn’t loud about what it does right. Its rhythm is quieter and more grounded, the kind of place that earns loyalty through feeling rather than flash. What sets it apart is how naturally its eco-conscious choices fold into the guest experience. Sustainability here isn’t a campaign. It’s a culture, one that lives in every detail from the eco-friendly amenities and mindful sourcing to the way the gardens immerse the property in tropical nature without needing explanation. Guests leave refreshed not only by the ocean air and spa treatments but by the sense that their stay supported something meaningful. The Palms shows that responsible travel can still feel indulgent, that luxury and conscience can share the same space without compromise. It’s the rare Miami Beach resort where you can find peace, connection, and purpose all in one stay ... a place that reminds you what genuine hospitality feels like when it’s inspired by nature. 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

Infrastructure Update: Where Does The Money Come From & How Is It Used? Thu Jan 12 2023 17:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Protect Yourself From Medical Identity Theft Thu Sep 19 2024 16:18:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The State of Our Nation: Things Are Getting Worse, Not Better Thu Mar 10 2022 05:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

BCT Honoring Service Every Day: - Public Transit Empowers Veterans - November 21, 2024 Share Every year on November 11th, Veteran's Day honors the immense sacrifice and courage of service members who've given their all for their countries. Originally known as Armistice Day, it marked the end of World War I on November 11th, 1918. Today, this global observance takes many forms: a two-minute silence in the UK, ceremonies in Kenya, and National Independence Day in Poland. These traditions highlight the universal respect for Veterans’ service that transcends borders. In the U.S., Armistice Day was renamed Veteran's Day in 1954, expanding its focus to honor all U.S. Armed Forces Veteran's. Today, Americans commemorate the day with ceremonies, and moments of reflection, but true support goes beyond November 11. Communities nationwide offer programs and resources to empower Veterans year-round. Broward County is home to a thriving Veteran community. According to FLHealthCharts, nearly 5% of Broward County residents are Veterans, contributing their strength, dedication, and resilience to our community. “Veterans bring a wealth of experience and commitment to our transit system,” explained Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO/General Manager of Broward County Transit (BCT). “We’re proud to support them with reliable services and fulfilling career paths, which allows them to continue serving the public.” This mutually beneficial relationship strengthens both BCT’s workforce and the community. Public transportation serves as a powerful resource for veterans, connecting them to jobs, healthcare, and essential services. BCT offers discounted fares and dedicated support programs, making these resources more accessible. For Veterans seeking new career opportunities, BCT’s employment programs allow them to serve their community in a different way, utilizing their discipline, professionalism, commitment and dedication. Explore BCT’s veterans programs and how public transit honors those who served at www.BrowardCounty.org/BCT or by calling 954-357-8400. Let’s honor Veterans every day by serving those who served. Explore these programs and join us in making a meaningful difference for Veterans in our community. < Previous News Next News >

Least Desirable Places To Live In On A $100K Salary Thu Mar 30 2023 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Come Celebrate! South Florida Jubilee Chorus' Performs Its First Live Performance in 30 Months July 21, 2022 Share After a hiatus of more than 30 months, Broward County's only all women's a cappella chorus, South Florida Jubilee Chorus, will be back on stage on Saturday, July 30 at 2 pm in Fort Lauderdale. (United Church of Christ 2501 NE 30th St, Fort Lauderdale) This performance: "Come Celebrate!" is the chorus' 2021 Holiday and 25th Anniversary show…Christmas in July. The original show date was postponed due to the surge of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 last December. It's been a long journey from 47 members in March 2020 to our current 26. The chorus continued rehearsing during the pandemic holding weekly rehearsals on Zoom, with occasional outdoor rehearsals and produced a virtual show last July. Last August, the ladies returned to in-person rehearsals, rehearsing masked and socially distanced. Under the direction of James Kastler, the ladies worked tirelessly to get their show ready for the December show date but, in an abundance of caution, decided to postpone it. "We are thrilled to finally be able to hold our Holiday/25th Anniversary show and are excited to welcome many of our chorus alumni who have been invited to the celebratory production," said Laurie Hunt, founding member and last year's president of South Florida Jubilee. "The show will include a video projection of photos and performances from the past 25 years that will bring smiles and tears to the audience." This show is made possible in part by a grant received from the Broward County Cultural Division. Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under and are available to purchase online at https://tickets.chorusconnection.com/sfj/events/459 - A limited number of tickets may be available on the day of the performance. South Florida Jubilee Chorus is a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, a worldwide women's organization focused on advancing the art of barbershop harmony. SAI provides opportunities to enjoy this a cappella style through performance, competition, and education. The chapter began 25 years ago in Hollywood. South Florida Jubilee's singers enrich their lives through the enjoyment of singing a broad variety of songs from Broadway, classical, pop, and gospel music. They perform throughout Broward County in quartets, ensembles, and full chorus all year long. Sweet Adelines International Founded in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1945, Sweet Adelines started as a small group of women who loved to sing. Since then, it has evolved into an organization that spans the globe connecting nearly 21,000 singers around the world in song. They’re dedicated to preserving the unique sound of a cappella barbershop harmony, sharing our passion for music and empowering our community in every area of their lives. If you are interested in singing with them, read the Singer's information page at www.southfloridajubilee.org/singers-faq then call 954-678-4223 to see what they are all about. < Previous News Next News >

Fall In Love November 3, 2022 Share Looking for a plump pumpkin to add to your family? If so, Gino (ID 660550) is waiting to meet you at the Humane Society of Broward County. Gino is 2 years old and a true sweetheart. He is short, but chunky and could probably lose a few pounds. This lovebug was given up because no one wanted him in the divorce. Gino enjoys going to the dog park, playing in water, loves to be petted and is good with other dogs and kids ages 5 and up. He previously slept in bed with the kids and he is good when left alone. Can this adorable fellow go home with you? Goose (ID A660555) Is also looking for a forever home. This sweet 1 ½ year old feline was given up because her family had too many pets and they wanted her to have a better life. She likes sleeping on plush blankets and enjoys being pet. Can this beauty be part of your family? To meet a pet, complete the Pre-Adoption Application on the website at: www.humanebroward.com and then stop by. The shelter is located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312 and opens daily at 11:00 a.m., if you have any questions, please call: (954) 989-3977. Extension#: 6. < Previous News Next News >

No Tricks, Just Treats! Thu Oct 21 2021 07:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

FDOT Construction Open House: 
Washington Street & NW/SW 72nd Ave. Mobility Project November 11, 2021 Share The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), District Four will host a Virtual Public Meeting and In-person Construction Open House regarding the mobility improvements along Washington Street and NW/SW 72nd Avenue in the Cities of Hollywood and Pembroke Pines. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 23rd from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., both virtually at this link and in-person at Pembroke Pines City Hall Room, A101 at 601 City Center Way. The Broward MPO is investing over $300 million to create safer, healthier communities in Broward County and this project is one of many within a larger plan to create enhanced bicycle, pedestrian, and public transportation access. Project improvements include: • Widening the roadway to accommodate 5-foot bicycle lanes in each direction along Washington Street from South 62nd Avenue to SR 7/US 441 and from South 56th Avenue to South Park Road, and along NW/SW 72nd Avenue from SW 9th Street to Johnson Street • Adding shared bicycle lane pavement markings along Washington Street from SR7/US 441 to South 56th Avenue and along NW/SW 72nd Avenue from Pembroke Road to SW 9th Street • Upgrading curb ramps to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements • Milling, resurfacing, and replacing pavement markings and signage • Upgrading pedestrian signalization at the intersections of Washington Street with South 62nd Avenue, SR 7/US 441, Hillcrest Drive, and South Park Road, and NW/SW 72nd Avenue with SR 820/Pines Boulevard and Johnson Street TRAFFIC IMPACTS • Single lane closures are permitted weekdays and weekends between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. • Pedestrian access and access to properties will be maintained at all times. Construction Cost: $3,588,218 Construction Start: November 29, 2021 Estimated Completion: Early 2023 ArtsPark Live: The Big Swing Saturday, November 13 - 7-10 p.m. The Big Swing is back this Saturday at the ArtsPark at Young Circle in downtown Hollywood! The largest gathering of the swing dance community in South Florida brings together beginners and professionals to have a grand old time. The Big Swing features two incredible bands on the same stage: The French Horn Collective and The Swing All-Stars. They will fill the air with music...and the floor with dancers from all over South Florida! The host for the evening will be four-time World Champion Swing Dancer Yuval Hod from All Swing Miami, who will lead dance lessons and demonstrations along with dancers from South Florida. Come dressed in your favorite swing-era style. Admission is free. Please remember, Single-use plastics and Styrofoam containers are prohibited at the ArtsPark, including plastic bottles and bags. < Previous News Next News >