Success Tips For Young Professionals Thu Aug 10 2023 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Is Your Family Busy Next Tuesday? Create a Quick Family-Friendly Meal With Just About Anything You Want Thu Jul 25 2024 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Falling Fares: Like Autumn Leaves - Tried-And-True Ways To Save On Your Next Flight This Autumn South Florida Sun Times Sep 10, 2025 There’s Nothing Quite Like Taking A Lovely Trip During The Fall Season. The Air Is Crisp Around The Country, The Airport Crowds Are Thinner, And Landscapes Are Often Spectacular (Especially In regions With Dazzling Fall Foliage). Even Better, Airlines Frequently Drop Their Prices On Flights That Take Place Between The Busy Summer Travel Season And The Winter Holidays. This Makes Autumn One Of The Best Times Of The Year For Budget-Conscious Travelers To Stretch A Trip Budget. If you are planning an upcoming autumn trip and want to save even more money on your flight, look no further. As the Chief Information Officer at SlickTrip (a popular flight price drop website), I have seen firsthand a number of tried-and-true ways to save on autumn flights. Here are 9 practical, proven tips to help you book the cheapest flight for a fall getaway. Try to Book Your Flight on a Tuesday While flight prices fluctuate constantly, Tuesday has consistently proven to be one of the best days to book a flight. This is largely because many airlines release weekly deals and discounted fares late on Monday or early Tuesday, which prompts competing airlines to adjust their own pricing in response. So by Tuesday afternoon, you’ll often see a wider range of lower fares across multiple airlines as they compete to fill seats. This brief window typically lasts through early Wednesday and can offer some of the most competitive flight prices of the week. It's not a hard rule, but statistically, many travelers have had luck scoring cheaper flights during this timeframe. Take advantage of this tip by setting fare alerts in advance and checking your routes early on Tuesday mornings for the best shot at landing a big deal! Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates One of the easiest ways to save money on your fall flight is to be flexible with your travel dates. For example, there is typically less demand for flights that take off on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so it is usually much cheaper to travel on those days than on the weekends. Use fare calendars on booking platforms to compare prices across different days. If your travel schedule allows for it, planning your trip around the lowest fare days (rather than locking in specific dates) can help you save a lot of money on your flight. Set a Fare Alert on a Flight Comparison Website Instead of checking individual airline websites one by one, streamline your search with a flight comparison website like SlickTrip. These helpful platforms allow you to compare fares across multiple airlines, highlight the cheapest days to fly, and they also have a flexible date search feature that makes it easy to spot the most affordable travel windows. Also, one of the most valuable features of these online platforms is their ability to set fare alerts for specific flight routes. Once activated, you'll receive notifications via email or a mobile app when a flight price drops, so you can time your purchase for maximum savings! With so many factors influencing airfare prices, using a flight comparison website with a fare drop alert is one of the most efficient and effective ways to secure the best deal. Skip the Checked Bag (If You Can) Many of the lowest flight fares in autumn (especially on budget airlines) are for “basic economy” tickets that don’t include a checked bag. If you can travel with just a carry-on, you’ll save on fees and also avoid baggage claim delays. Packing light for a longer trip might seem challenging, but it’s often easier than expected. If you’re concerned about fitting everything into a carry-on, research nearby laundromats at your destination. Spending a few dollars to wash a load of clothes mid-trip is far more cost-effective than paying $35+ for a checked bag full of extra outfits. With a little planning, you can travel lighter, save money, and simplify your journey. Use an Incognito Window & Clear Browser Cookies When Searching Have you ever researched a flight route in the morning and then checked it again later the same day, only to discover that the price has gone up? You’re not alone. While airlines and travel sites often deny raising fares based on repeated flight searches (a practice known as dynamic pricing), it's wise to take simple precautions. Use your browser’s incognito or private mode when searching for flights to prevent websites from storing your search history through cookies. Also, if you’re checking fares repeatedly over several days, consider clearing your cookies in between the search sessions. These small steps can help ensure you're seeing the most accurate, unbiased pricing. This can potentially save you from paying more than you need to. Don’t Assume a Round-Trip Fare Is Always Cheaper While it might seem more convenient to book a round-trip ticket with a single airline, doing so could mean missing out on significant savings. In many cases, booking two separate one-way flights (possibly with different airlines) can be cheaper. This mix-and-match approach will help you find the best price for each leg of your journey. It also gives you greater flexibility, as you will be able to fly into one city and return from another (a.k.a. open jaw travel). This option can expand your itinerary, allow for more exploration, and still keep your travel budget in check. Always compare both round-trip and one-way combinations before you book! Fly Early in the Morning or Late at Night Flights that depart early in the morning or late at night (like red-eyes) are often significantly cheaper because they’re less in demand. So if you’re flexible and willing to travel during these less popular hours, you can save a substantial amount on your flight. And there’s another added bonus of flying early in the morning: fewer incoming flights mean fewer chain-reaction delays. Early flights often use planes that stay overnight at the airport, so you won’t have to worry about your plane coming in from an inbound flight and being delayed. Keep in mind that delays compound as the day stretches on, so a delay at one airport can ripple through the whole system. So flying out early in the morning can prevent you from getting caught in the delay domino effect. Follow Airlines on Social Media to Catch Flash Sales Airlines and travel deal websites often announce flash sales, promo codes, and exclusive discounts on their Social Media channels. They sometimes even share these deals on their social channels before posting them anywhere else. By following airlines and travel deal sites on Social Media, you’ll be among the first to know about limited-time offers that can save you serious money on your trip. These deals tend to go fast, so staying plugged in gives you a key advantage when it comes to booking the best flights. Fly Into a Major Hub If Possible Large hub airports like Chicago O’Hare and JFK in New York typically have a higher volume of flights and more competition among airlines that often results in lower fares when compared to smaller regional airports. Therefore, even if your final destination is a smaller city, it may be more cost-effective to fly into a nearby major hub and then continue your journey via train, bus, renting a car, or a short regional flight. While it might add a bit of travel time, the potential savings can make the extra effort well worth it. It may be wise to also consider nearby airports in a major metropolitan area. Major cities often have multiple airports, and sometimes a short drive or train ride can save you a considerable amount on your flight. For example, if you're flying to the San Francisco Bay Area, you could also check prices for Oakland or San Jose to see if they’re cheaper. Or, travelers heading to New York might find cheaper flights into Newark rather than right into JFK or LaGuardia. Have an Awesome, Budget-Friendly Trip! Who wouldn’t want to save big bucks on their autumn travels? Booking affordable flights for your fall trip is all about strategy and flexibility. With fewer travelers in the skies and better deals available, fall is one of the most rewarding times to explore new places without breaking the bank. Whether you’re chasing colorful foliage, escaping for a quiet weekend, or checking off a bucket-list destination, these 9 tips will help you get there for less. Jeremy Greenburg is the Chief Information Officer at SlickTrip, an online platform that instantly compares top travel sites and alerts you the moment flight prices drop. In his role, Greenburg educates others on travel trends, travel tech innovation, and real-time data systems. Your smart travel companion, SlickTrip helps you never miss out on the best deals on flights. Airline ticket prices can change multiple times a day, but with real-time price alerts, you’ll always stay ahead. Explore flexible flight combinations, spot the cheapest travel dates with color-coded calendars, and view detailed seat maps to pick the best spot on the plane. For more information, visit: https://slicktrip.com/ Previous Next

Lionel Richie & Earth, Wind & Fire Light Up Hard Rock Live — And the Surprising Jewish Connections in Lionel’s Family By Neil Keller - Keller’s Korner Aug 6, 2026 Welcome To Keller’s Korner. Legendary Singer Lionel Richie Has Been A Nationally Known Entertainer For Five Decades, And His Popularity Shows No Signs Of Slowing. He Has Performed At Hard Rock Live In Hollywood, Florida Three Times Over The Years, And The Crowd Went Wild Again During His Latest Show On July 24. The July 24 Show Was Completely Sold Out, And The Staff At The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood Did A Fantastic Job. Everyone We Spoke With Said They Had A Wonderful Time. Earth, Wind & Fire Set the Tone Earth, Wind & Fire opened the night with a string of fan favorites, including: “Let’s Groove,” “September,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “Fantasy” and “Shining Star.” Their energy set the stage perfectly for Lionel’s entrance. Lionel Richie Takes Over Lionel followed with a set of his big hits. Although he performs solo now, he was once a lead singer of The Commodores. His biggest songs include: “Three Times a Lady,” “All Night Long (All Night),” “Endless Love” (with Diana Ross) and “Hello.” Crowd Reaction The crowd clearly loved both acts. Melissa Rubin of Miami said of the concert, “It was beyond my expectations. I had seen Earth, Wind & Fire before, but not Lionel Richie. Both of them were great.” Wendy Peters of Delray Beach was all smiles after the concert. She said, “The concert was phenomenal. We saw them both performing together last year. Earth, Wind & Fire has so much energy, and the crowd was fired up. Three original singers are still with the group.” Wendy added, “I loved when Lionel Richie was talking with the crowd. I had tears in my eyes when Lionel paid tribute to his late friend and singer Kenny Rogers. It was so exciting when Lionel sang “We are the World.” I enjoyed every minute of the concert.” Madeleine Romanello of Miami said, “It was unbelievable how they are so good and better than their records. It was two big stars which made it special as it was 2 for 1. I love music from the 1970s and 1980s. I also loved hearing Lionel Richie talking about Live Aid as that brought back great memories of these movements of people coming together.” Family Matters — And a Surprising Jewish Connection Family has always been central to Lionel Richie’s life. His classic song “Three Times a Lady” was inspired by a toast his father gave to Lionel’s mother at their 37th wedding anniversary. Learning how important family is to Lionel led me to research the Jewish connections within his family, which many fans at Hard Rock likely did not know. Lionel has three children: Nicole Richie, 44, Miles Richie, 32 and Sofia Richie Grainge, 27 There has long been confusion about whether Lionel’s second wife, Diane Alexander (mother of Miles and Sofia), is Jewish. Some people claim she is, but there is no confirmed evidence. Sofia Richie Grainge Sofia has been in the public eye since her teens. She dated actor Scott Disick, who is Jewish, for three years. Their relationship drew heavy paparazzi attention, especially because Scott was a figure on Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Sofia and Scott were often seen vacationing with the Kardashian family. Seven months after that relationship ended, Sofia began dating Elliot Grainge, a Jewish music executive. Elliot is the son of Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group since 2010. Once again, the paparazzi followed Sofia closely. In April 2022, Sofia announced her engagement to Elliot. Although she was born Christian, she chose to convert to Judaism before the wedding. She told Vogue: “It was very important to Elliot’s family and to me, now that I have converted, that it be a traditional Jewish ceremony.” Sofia and Elliot were married on April 22, 2023, in Antibes, France, a beautiful city on the French Riviera. Rabbi Thomas Salamon of England officiated. The ceremony included a chuppah and ketubah signing. Sofia explained that they legally married in the United States just before leaving for France: “We got married at home with just our parents. We read our vows then because we felt it was very personal — something for just our families to hear.” Her sister Nicole emceed the event in the United States. Sofia added, “It was hysterical. It was filled with comedy. My dad, Elliot’s dad, and Elliot’s best friend, Jack, gave incredible speeches. It was very sweet—truly unbelievable!” Lionel proudly walked his daughter down the aisle. Sofia and Elliot now have two children and are raising them Jewish. Lionel’s family story adds a fascinating cultural layer to one of America’s most beloved entertainers. Nicole & Miles Richie Nicole, Lionel’s oldest, became famous through the reality show “The Simple Life” with Paris Hilton (2003–2007). She has appeared in numerous TV shows and films. She dated DJ Adam Goldstein (DJ AM) for three years, and later married singer Joel Madden. Some people claim Joel has a Jewish mother, but there is no verified evidence. Miles, Lionel’s middle child, is a model. As with Diane Alexander, some claim she is Jewish, but again, no confirmed proof exists. A Fun Night at Hard Rock Live Fans at Hard Rock Live came for the hits — and they got them. But few likely knew about the Jewish connections within Lionel Richie’s family, especially Sofia’s conversion and her traditional Jewish wedding. Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire continues to bring joy to audiences worldwide. Neil Keller is a Jewish historian. Visit www.NeilKeller.com to learn who is Jewish. Photo credits to Wendy Peters. Lionel Richie has been a nationally known entertainer for five decades. Fans at Hard Rock Live came for the hits. The July 24 show was completely sold out. Earth, Wind & Fire Set the Tone. Previous Next

Getting Back To Basics: Financial And Demographic Changes Have Triggered The Need To Rethink The District By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper March 28, 2024 Share Last week I shared the first part of this article on Redefining Our Schools. Over the past months the School Board of Broward County has been gathering input from all stakeholders in our local schools. Due to many changes including but not limited to student population decreases, charter schools, school vouchers, school choice and other financial factors changes need to be transformational. BCSB leadership has set out to address changes to ensure all students have equitable access to quality education and opportunity. As part of this process Mayors were asked to share their observations and ideas to help level the playing field for our students. The following is a letter I sent after visiting our schools and speaking with stakeholders here in Hallandale Beach. The partnership with United Way is an excellent step forward. The varied services should be at the school, not at some remote” Centers.” I do not want to be misinterpreted. For me it is not the what, it is the where. I said this at the first joint mayors meeting. We need to get back to basics. Services including right size classes, certified teachers, education coaches, social workers, nursing, curriculum oversight and training, discipline, and operations all must be funded properly. Gulfstream Academy of Hallandale Beach K-8: Upgrades, Fields, Programs, and Partnership. The Colt Campus is newer and genuinely nice. I am sure there are some needs, but I have not met with Principal Bonny yet because of Principal Campbell’s recent passing. The field at the school is just an empty field. It used to have a baseball field, batting cages, a soccer field and stands. PAL used to use this field before we renovated all our parks. Our shared use agreement said we would take care of the field. The shared use agreement was not finished, and we were told we could not access it to cut. We have not used the fields there for a while. From what I have gleaned it is uneven, there are no facilities except the PAL Concession Stand and Restrooms, and a storage room that is in bad shape and has holes in the roof. I do not know right now if there are any partnership opportunities but would leave that idea open. The Stallion Campus is an older building too and could use the same improvements as HHS. Both campuses have a solid base. They have a great partnership onsite with United Way. I have learned that many ESOL students face difficulties. Many of the students live in poverty. Again, if these issues exist at the school, the service should be given at the school and not remotely. Gulfstream Early Learning Center: Programs Realignment Housing. This location was an old elementary school that was shut down years ago and left empty for some time. In 2017, the city was told that it would be a training center for Broward College students and other daycare workers to get direct experience of 6 months to PreK children. This Center was mentioned at the Mayors meeting. I was surprised by the reference of this being a good partnership example. Coincidentally, I was getting complaints about parking and congestion around the facility. I have had a chance to visit the school twice now. Again, it comes down to "it's not the what, it's the where." School is now not simply just an early education center for children. The building is now a daycare. There are no regular classes for student teachers or daycare workers. There may be one or two teachers studying but I was unable to get any numbers or data on who is being served, if any. It is used sometimes for training conferences. Language and GED Courses are available for adults. This is also the South Area Office for SB Staff and where voluntary PreK is registered for everyone from Route I-595 and below. Hispanic Unity rents space and offers programming and organizes events. There are now laundry and clothing services at no cost. I was impressed by the administration there. I admire them and praised the staff for being excellent and caring. We supported the original idea even though some community members opposed it. But now this is not what we expected for our single-family neighborhood. The question remains: Is this the best way to use an asset or is this a chance to create more housing through a P3? I have discussed this with our Staff and certainly welcome the chance to discuss it further. If the school desires to establish the Main Social Service Hub what are the costs and community impacts? What part does the county play? Should the services be centralized or at each school? Lanier-James Education Center: Program Changes Possible Redevelopment. I visited the Lanier-James Education Center when it was first built. This building was somewhat of a black eye on the community after not having a new High School built and also being a school for troubled students or those that are court ordered. The school is new and looks nice. I noticed that it is not fully used. I do not know if that is intentional or because of the instability of some students. I am not an expert in education or juvenile justice, but this whole model from my brief observation needs to be examined. I know your goal is to find ways to change our district to deal with low enrollment and underused facilities. I hope you realize that these are my views as a community leader. There is a lot of anxiety at the schools and clearly a lot of territorial attachment for all stakeholders. Your efforts have great value and I encourage you to stay the course. Keep working on a plan to create stability. Even though financial and demographic changes triggered the need to rethink the district, these changes will be essential for the success of all our students. It is never easy to make transformational changes to any organization. While it is a daunting task, I support your efforts. Moving forward please know I am available to assist, and my door is always open. BCSB will be discussing these issues in the coming months with “everything on the table” as Dr. Licate has informed all stakeholders. I encourage our community to share their input with their ideas and suggestions as well. Please visit the BCSB Website at: www.BrowardSchools.com . As always, please feel free to contact me with your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City better! I can be reached at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or: joycooper@aol.com . Or Facebook: Mayor Joy Cooper. You can always call my Office number at: (954) 457-1318. Or Call/Text me at: (954) 632-5700. Working for you! Always have! Always will! < Previous News Next News >

The Headless Horseman Gallops into Gulfstream Park Village Saturday, October 28: South Florida’s ultimate entertainment destination welcomes back its signature Halloween event, free and open to the public Thu Oct 26 2023 16:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Keeping Diners Coming Back For More: From Scratch-Made Pasta To Craft Cocktails, North Italia Fort Lauderdale Delivers By Merilee Kern & Devyn Kern Mar 6, 2025 Situated in downtown Fort Lauderdale lies North Italia, a restaurant brand celebrated from coast to coast for scratch-preparing both modern and classic Italian meals every single day … all executed with delicious precision. With a range of choices to satisfy any craving—from traditional pasta dishes and creative pizzas to delightful small plates crafted using the freshest ingredients— the menu has amassed numerous fan favorite dishes. The trendy yet inviting layout of the restaurant, with both indoor and outdoor seating options as well as an expansive bar, makes it well-suited for nearly any lunch or dinner occasion. The open, visible kitchen setup allows guests to observe chefs in action as they meticulously prepare each dish with care and enthusiasm. While both the interior dining room and the outdoor terrace are each adorned with lighting and modern furnishings, the al fresco option is ideal for savoring South Florida’s delightful climate. Must haves fundamentals for dining devotees include these dishes from across the varied menu categories. Fabulous starter options include small plates like the Cacio e Pepe Arancini, which features crispy risotto balls with pecorino Romano cheese, a crushed pepper blend and pesto aioli for a delightful combination of textures and rich flavors. The Black Mediterranean Mussels with Calabrese salami, white wine, garlic butter, fresh herbs and grilled bread provides a savory and aromatic start to your meal … also showcasing the restaurant's skill with seafood-driven dishes. No afterthought, salads here are dressed to impress. The Seasonal Vegetable Salad includes butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, radicchio, pecorino, fregola, pistachio, date and a white balsamic vinaigrette, creating a vibrant and nutritious dish. The Italian Farm Salad combines salami, speck, provolone, pepperoncini, olive, heirloom cherry tomato, cucumber, pickled red onion, roasted pepper, herb breadcrumb, and oregano vinaigrette for a hearty and flavorful option. At this locale, pizzas are paramount. The delectable Prosciutto Pizza topped with smoked prosciutto, mission figs, goat cheese arugula leaves—all garnished with a drizzle of honey—proffers the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The Margherita Pizza is a classic choice, of course, with house-made ricotta, mozzarella, grana padano, and fresh basil, delivering a clean and simple, yet delicious, flavor profile. Of course, the homemade pasta here is a stellar standout. Two dishes exemplifying which include the Lumache alla Norcina includes fennel sausage, rapini, grana padano crema, herb breadcrumbs, and black truffle, creating a rich and indulgent dish. The house specialty Bolognese features traditional meat sauce, pappardelle, grana padano, wild oregano, and EVOO, offering a comforting and satisfying meal. Pizza and pasta aside, other entrée options are an equitable epicurean delight. The Braised Short Rib Marsala with beech mushroom, brussel sprouts, heirloom carrot, black truffle risotto, and affinato—and the Grilled Branzino replete with roasted fennel, brussel sprouts, rapini, romanesco, fingerling potato, cipollini and lemon caper butter—further exemplify the restaurants culinary ingenuity. Beverages here are also built differently. While Italian restaurants understand the importance of perfectly matching a beverage with a meal, North Italia adds its unique flair. Their cocktail selection boasts an array of creative cocktail concoctions like the Just Peachy with white peach, raspberry, lemon and ginger beer; and the Limonata Rossa featuring black cherry, fresh lemon and soda, The restaurant’s curated wine list offers a blend of Italian, local and other options to perfectly accompany any dining experience. Below, North Italia’s Chef Ryan Smith offers a few other tasty insights as to why this eatery has gained—and sustained—its popularity in SoFlo: LLR: What makes the Fort Lauderdale location of North Italia unique compared to the other U.S. locations? CRS: Fort Lauderdale is different from, let’s say, Miami where it’s all about the new restaurant openings that everyone wants to go to. Locals in Fort Lauderdale love going to their staple restaurants that have been around for 30 to 40-plus years … and it’s the generations of locals that keep them alive. Although North Italia is new, I believe it will become the local Italian restaurant for generations to come. Our broad menu lends itself to our guests exploring numerous options. North Italia is not a “traditional” Italian restaurant, therefore we offer much more than just pizza and pastas. We also continually update our menus so new and returning guests alike can experience a variety of dishes including appetizers, salads, and entrees, in addition to our pastas and pizzas. LLR: What sets North Italia Fort Lauderdale apart from other dining options in the area? CRS: Our handmade pastas, beautiful patio, bar spaces and elevated hospitality set the restaurant apart from others. We pay attention to what our guests are seeking in a dining experience. For one, we change our menu twice a year to allow for the freshest ingredients with the most flavor. This also ensures we are staying current with different culinary and bar trends. Our open kitchens display our commitment to freshness where you can see our team hand rolling our doughs and stuffing our pastas for our guests. We also work personally with people planning special private events and can cater to whatever they are looking for when hosting a party. LLR: For first-time visitors, what tips or advice would you offer a guest to ensure they have an unforgettable dining experience? CRS: Come in to relax with friends or family, enjoy some wine, share some small plates or pizza … and don’t leave without trying a pasta! Amid our commitment to freshness, we produce our pizza dough and pastas in-house daily, paying close attention to technique. Each pasta—from our Tortellini Al Pomodoro to our Squid Ink Tonnarelli—is made with simple, fresh ingredients to create a flavorful dish. LLR: Do share a bit more about how North Italia’s fresh-made pastas elevate the guest experience—also having become a signature of the brand at large. CRS: The art of making pasta is more than just a recipe. It is a technique passed down from generation to generation. Each region has its own unique shape that is a celebration of Italian culture. We bring that culture into every pasta we make. We want our pasta to reflect the regionality from which it comes. When creating new menu items or updating existing dishes, we intentionally pair the specific type of pasta to the accompanying components of the dish, including the sauce, cheeses, and garnish. Another key element that elevates this guest experience is taking the time to train our staff to assist with wine pairings that best compliment each pasta—or any—dish, ensuring we are also taking the guest’s preferences into consideration. LLR: Does the restaurant cater to diners with dietary preferences or restrictions, such as vegetarians or gluten-free guests? CRS: Yes, we can accommodate all guests with any dietary restrictions by modifying any of our dishes, as necessary. In fact, we have many dishes that are inherently vegetarian on our menu. Some examples include the Zucca Chips, Cacio E Pepe Arancini, Burrata Di Stagione, our Seasonal Vegetable Salad, the Funghi Pizza, and our Tortelloni Al Pomodoro. We also offer gluten-free pasta and pizza crusts by request, with a handful of dishes that are naturally gluten-free. LLR: What is the approach to the beverage offerings? CRS: We try to stay current with trends in the industry. For example, we continually introduce new and unique Italian wines, enhance classic cocktails by adding Italian ingredients and we recently added a “mocktail” section on our menu as we are seeing them become more and more popular. We use Italian liquors to create our own twist on classic cocktails. Our Sicilian margarita topped with our house made sangria is a must try, along with our cold-served “Jump Start” double espresso martini shaken with chocolate and cream. In all, North Italia Fort Lauderdale provides a dining experience that combines extraordinarily fresh and robust flavors with a refined yet unpretentious atmosphere—all underpinned by exemplary staff service. Be it a meal on-the-go, A foodie-forward lunch or dinner experience, or a memorable celebration, this restaurant serves up an authentic slice of Italy in the vibrant heart of South Florida. Photos Courtesy of North Italia; Some Copyright Jill McNamara Photography Previous Next

Booogie By The Beach & Family Movie Night Thu Oct 20 2022 16:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Serving the Community Auto Tags of Hallandale Celebrating Over 30 Years of Service Thu Jun 02 2022 04:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

FLITE Center Opens Health And Wellness Clinic To Meet Growing Needs Of At-Risk Community In Broward County South Florida Sun Times Jun 26, 2025 FLITE Center, a Lifeline For Youth Aging Out Of Foster Care And Other Vulnerable Populations, Recently Celebrated The Opening Of Its Health And Wellness Clinic Located At 5231 Northwest 33rd Avenue, Florida 33309 Fort Lauderdale. Through A New Partnership With Florida Community Health Partners & Bridges Of Hope Behavioral Health LLC, The FLITE Center Clinic Will Now Operate Five Days A Week, Monday Through Friday, Offering Its Clients A Wide Range Of Physical And Mental Health Services Including Telehealth Visits From Birth To Age 35. This Move Reflects FLITE's Commitment To Holistic Care, Supporting The Physical And Emotional Well-Being Of The Individuals They Serve, With Investment Support From Bank Of America And Cleveland Clinic Florida. "Both Mental and Physical Health are vital to the healing journey. FLITE Center clients can access not only health services but also housing, education, employment, and wellness support," said Wanda Perez, Interim CEO of FLITE Center. "By expanding our clinic, we're strengthening the holistic, wraparound care at the core of our mission since day one. No youth should have to navigate the transition to adulthood alone." With a dedicated team including a medical director, nurse practitioner and three medical assistants trained in trauma-informed care, the clinic offers preventive healthcare services, STD and HIV Testing, as well as in-office Lab Work and Wellness Checks. Additionally, the clinic features Physical Fitness Programs, including Yoga & Physical Fitness, courtesy of Broward Behavioral Health Coalition and the United Way of Broward. A Wellness Channel offers virtual psychoeducational content on Health and Mental Health topics. In addition, our Psychiatry team is built up of four APRN medical doctors providing Psychiatry and Medication Management Services for our system of care youth. In addition to Physical and Mental Healthcare, the FLITE Center Clinic plays a critical role in serving victims of human trafficking, providing them with specialized trauma-informed care. The Anti-Human Trafficking Department offers clinical therapy, crisis intervention, wellness checks and personalized guidance from survivor mentors. The team also offers training for community agencies, ensuring the community can help vulnerable populations. As a means to support health and wellness, FLITE Center has also added cooking classes for its client base. Through a Cleveland Clinic Florida Grant, youth can learn how to prepare healthy meals in a newly crafted teaching kitchen. This is an extension of the training to prepare youth to be independent and self-sufficient through partnership with EatWell Exchange, Inc. "Our goal is to ensure that every young person we serve has access to the full spectrum of holistic healthcare, from routine check-ups to Mental/Emotional Health support," said Ayesha Williams, MSW, Vice President of FLITE Center’s Health and Wellness, Anti-Human Trafficking Department. "With this expansion, we can meet the growing demand and continue offering trauma-informed care to a diverse population dealing with complex health issues like diabetes, HIV, and Mental Health crises." For over a decade, the FLITE Center has offered supportive services to over 1,200 clients annually. With the expansion of its clinic, the organization continues its mission to ensure that no young adult in Broward County faces the challenges of adulthood without the proper support. ABOUT FLITE Center FLITE Center (Fort Lauderdale Independence, Training & Education) Center was created in 2009 through a partnership of the Community Foundation of Broward, the United Way of Broward and the Junior League of Greater Fort Lauderdale, with the intent of offering comprehensive access to services for youth aging out of foster care and victims of human trafficking. A Not-For-Profit Organization, FLITE Center has become the hub of all support services for transitioning youth to become successful adults within a safe, nurturing environment that promotes personal growth while developing practical life skills. Based on community need, FLITE Center serves Broward and Palm Beach counties plus offers select services throughout Central Florida. For more information, visit: https://flitecenter.org . Previous Next

BoConcept Opens at Gulfstream Park Village, South Florida’s Home Store Destination: The Contemporary Furniture Retailer Joins a Lineup of Premier Home & Design Stores April 28, 2022 Share Gulfstream Park Village, South Florida’s premier entertainment, dining and restaurant destination located on the border of Broward and Miami-Dade County, offers a dynamic selection of home and design stores. Featuring 11 home stores at one address, there is something for every taste and budget. Whether it’s much needed spring cleaning and organization, or a décor refresh, Gulfstream Park Village is the perfect one-stop shopping destination that offers boundless options and inspiration. Gulfstream Park Village is pleased to welcome furniture retailer BoConcept as its newest retailer. The store is celebrating its official grand opening on Thursday, April 28 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Guests are invited to browse a wide range of luxurious Danish furniture and décor. Prior to the grand opening, the store will mark its official arrival with a ribbon cutting event with Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper. With the addition of BoConcept, Gulfstream Park Village is pleased to continue its leading position as a South Florida home store destination. Other retailers include Alex Kay Gallery/Art Plex Photo, Todel, Bang & Olufsen, Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, Sher Gallery, The Container Store, West Elm, Williams Sonoma and Z Gallerie. Shoppers can enjoy a variety of high-quality furnishings and seasonal décor at Z Gallerie, Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, and West Elm. For those looking to refresh a kitchen or bathroom space, Todel offers a number of luxury furnishings, fixtures and finishes in a large showroom setting with designers on hand to assist. The Container Store is a one-stop shop for organization, with a focus on custom closets and storage spaces. For food and kitchen enthusiasts, Williams-Sonoma offers evergreen and seasonal housewares, tools and gadgets as well as tablescape décor and kitchen essentials. The Bang & Olufsen store offers a shopping experience like no other where the latest in-home audio and visuals can be customed to suite any space. For finishing touches and unique art pieces of all genres, visit Sher Gallery, Zero Empty Spaces, or Alex Kay Gallery/Art Plex Photo. “Gulfstream Park Village is an ideal setting for home and design stores. As we continue to see steady increases in home shopping activity, Gulfstream remains a comprehensive, one-stop destination for 11 home stores with a unique array of products and services,” said Alex Schreer, Director of Experiential Marketing at Gulfstream Park Village. “It’s this unique shopping experience that distinguishes Gulfstream Park Village from ordinary malls.” No trip to Gulfstream Park Village is complete without enjoying the vast array of dining, entertainment, shopping and wellness & beauty options that the open-air center offers. Entertainment for Everyone Gulfstream Park Village offers a variety of ongoing entertainment destinations, including PlugIN Karaoke that features private rooms perfect for a night out. For the action-seeking crowd, Strike 10 Bowling offers food and fun for groups or families as well as plenty of arcade fun. Color Me Mine pottery painting is both a romantic and creative date-night favorite as well as a fun activity for kids. Dining That Delights Gulfstream Park Village offers a variety of dining options, so there is something to keep everyone satisfied! For a big night out or just a quick grab-and-go, guests can enjoy options including Yard House, Christine Lee’s, Texas de Brazil, Häagen-Dazs, Pastry Is Art, Belly Fish, Bissaleh and Ten Palms at the Gulfstream Park Clubhouse. Off to the Races Guests of all ages can enjoy daily racing at Gulfstream Park. Admission to races is free and high season brings the industry’s top jockeys and horses to high stakes races. For those looking to try their luck, Gulfstream Park Casino is open 365 days a year and offers a dynamic offering of socially distant slot and video game tables for a thrilling experience. Look and Feel Your Best Gulfstream Park Village has a variety of health and beauty options for those who want to look and feel their best. Visitors can visit Venetian Nail Spa to enjoy a manicure or pedicure or schedule an appointment at Ideal Image Med Spa, which offers a number of cosmetic medical services. Nadia Paris, an upscale French hair salon, offers services that enhance the natural beauty of guests’ hair. For those looking to get a quick workout in without all the work, Impulse Body Fitness is the latest method of personal training with a suit that does it all through science and technology. This workout can burn up to 2000 calories in just 25 minutes! About Gulfstream Park
Gulfstream Park is South Florida’s premier entertainment, dining and restaurant destination, located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, anchored by the legendary Gulfstream Park racetrack. Gulfstream Park not only offers world-class Thoroughbred horse racing but is also home to a casino and family-friendly venues including over 15 restaurants, outdoor cafes, art galleries, fashion retailers, state-of-the-art bowling alley, and a renowned selection of signature home stores. Gulfstream Park, voted a 2020 Top Travelers' Choice Winner by TripAdvisor, is located at 901 South Federal Highway in Hallandale Beach, Florida, just two miles east of I-95. Valet service and complimentary self-parking are available. Gulfstream Park is open seven days a week. For hours, schedules, upcoming events and additional information, visit https://www.gulfstreampark.com/ or call 954-454-7000 < Previous News Next News >

ManateeFest: 9th Anniversary Celebration - Experience The Wonders Of Manatee Lagoon This Cool Weather Season Aventura Digest January 22, 2025 Share As temperatures drop this winter, Manatee Lagoon - An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® invites visitors to witness the seasonal migration of Florida’s beloved Manatees. From November 15th through March 31st (Manatee Season), Manatees seek out the warm waters near Florida Power & Light Company’s (FPL) Rivera Beach Clean Energy Center outflow, creating a unique opportunity for the public to observe these gentle giants up close. Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center®, provides the perfect viewing conditions for families, nature enthusiasts and tourists alike. Here’s what to expect when visiting Manatee Lagoon: Close encounters with Manatees: Observe Manatees basking in the warm waters, an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Educational exhibits, interactive displays and tours: Discover the importance of Manatee Conservation and learn about Manatee Lagoon’s ongoing environmental preservation efforts. Explore exhibits such as a seagrass nursery and mangrove tank and join tours throughout the day. Scenic views and amenities: Enjoy the serene beauty of the lagoon, complete with picturesque views and comfortable facilities to enhance your visit. "We are excited to welcome guests to Manatee Lagoon this winter season," said Rachel Shanker, Education and Conservation Manager at Manatee Lagoon. "Winter is a great time to witness Manatees in their natural habitat and to appreciate the crucial role they serve in our ecosystem. With cooler temperatures expected in the coming weeks, there's no better opportunity to experience the magic of these gentle giants and to learn about our collective conservation efforts." Manatee Lagoon is committed to providing a safe, educational and enjoyable experience for all visitors. With free admission and a range of activities designed to inspire a passion for wildlife and conservation, this is an ideal destination for a day trip. Make sure to keep an eye out for various educational programs and events hosted by Manatee Lagoon. Notably, its 9th anniversary celebration, ManateeFest, will take place on Saturday, February 1st. Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® is a free Palm Beach County educational attraction with a dedicated area to view manatees up close. The 16,000-square-foot center features engaging, hands-on exhibits for visitors to learn all about the unique creatures as well as the natural wonders of the surrounding Lake Worth Lagoon. During the colder winter months, the facility’s observation deck is the ideal spot to view manatees basking in the clean, warm-water outflows from Florida Power & Light Company’s adjacent Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center. Manatee Lagoon also offers digital resources and educational virtual content for Manatee fans near and far on its website: www.VisitManateeLagoon.com .   The center is open seven days a week, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except for major holidays, through Manatee Season, which runs November 15th through March 31st, 2025. Manatee Lagoon is open the rest of the year Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information about visiting Manatee Lagoon, please visit: www.VisitManateeLagoon.com . < Previous News Next News >