American Pickers To Film In Florida: Unearthing History One Treasure At A Time Thu Oct 12 2023 16:13:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Love, Aventura: Saluting The Aventura Moms By Joyce R. Forchion March 18, 2022 Share Solidifying a Legacy of Service During Women’s History Month Many would argue that mothers represent the backbone of a family structure. They are leaders, confidantes, protectors, and disciplinarians. With the enormous responsibilities placed upon their shoulders to manage their households and prioritize their children’s needs, where can contemporary mothers turn for friendship, collaboration, and a sense of community? In 2016, Aventura wife and mother Esther Bensusan founded a social network called Aventura Moms – a closed social network exceeding 10k targeting other local mothers seeking a supportive group and sense of solace. The collective meets to share family resources, exchange business directories, host parenting conversations, and experience opportunities for service. “The group’s goal is for moms and families with kids living in Aventura to quickly find answers, recommendations, resources, advice, and access to immediate information. This group allows you to ask questions and receive quick answers or suggestions from fellow moms based on their experiences, saving the hassle and time to search for the same information,” said Bensusan. “Additionally, the group informs my followers of fun events happening around Miami, good deals, and interesting store finds.” A former marketing executive for one of Canada’s notable infant brands, Bensusan moved to Aventura in 2014. Despite her close proximity to Aventura Mall and other entertainment attractions, she quickly experienced difficulty obtaining listings of child-friendly activities that would appeal to parents in the area. Now, her Facebook community caters to over ten thousand members and Instagram following is quickly emerging. “I wanted to create a group where I could connect with other mothers in Aventura, using this group as a resource to find suitable schools, camps, after-school activities, and birthday venues, just to name a few. I didn’t want new moms to feel alone, but rather meet other moms who share the same lifestyles,” she said. “Through my marketing expertise, I learned that moms love to share their experiences through research, whether good or bad. Moms can relate to other mothers’ opinions.” Known for participating in its sponsored partnership with The Power of the Heels Foundation and Bloomingdale’s Mix Masters Fashion Show, the Moms have built a track record of offering charitable contributions to residents in need. “I can recall multiple times where people have reached out to me personally to share their gratitude. One time, a single mother reached out to me to let me know she had no money to buy milk for her baby and food for her older children. Within a few hours, I was able to bring a few Moms together to supply her with enough groceries to last a few weeks,” she said. “Since it was right around Christmas, one of our members offered to supplement our organizational gesture with gifts for her kids.” In light of Women’s History Month, Bensusan is determined to establish a legacy of equitable women’s leadership and giving throughout the Aventura community. “‘Together We Are Stronger’ is my slogan that is often used in my group because it portrays the importance of togetherness. No matter what challenges we face as moms and women, the power of unity is indeed what keeps us going,” she said. “The group’s primary focus will always be grounded in respect, transparency, and acceptance. Aventura Moms is all about helping one another and connecting individuals who can learn from each other, and women can use this platform as a safe space without judgment and endless support.” < Previous News Next News >

How Congress Can Stave Off A Crisis In Home Care Mon Dec 30 2024 18:45:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Paving The Way To A Better Future: Budget Workshops & Discussions Are Underway in Hallandale Beach Thu Aug 31 2023 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hollywood Police Launch New Program: School Zone Safety Cameras To Combat Speeding And Enhance Student Safety August 15, 2024 Share Speeding in school zones poses a serious and potentially fatal risk. To address this issue, the City of Hollywood has implemented a school zone safety camera program aimed at reducing the number of speeding vehicles in these areas. This program will cover 33 public, private, and charter schools. School zones are clearly marked with additional speed limit signs, regulatory time placards, and photo-enforced signs. These warning signs will assist in slowing down traffic, leading to fewer crashes and injuries. Cameras will be used to identify vehicles exceeding the posted speed limit. Drivers caught speeding 11 mph or more over the limit within these zones will receive a violation notice by mail. The School Zone Speed Cameras are now operational with a 30-day grace period during which only warnings will be issued. This period is intended to encourage drivers to adjust their habits and slow down. During this time, violators will receive a warning notice without a fine. The speed cameras are active and enforced on school days from 30 minutes before school starts until 30 minutes after it ends. Violations are classified as civil, not traffic, and carry a fine of $100. The City is committed to slowing down drivers and protecting kids in the community. Please drive safely in school zones and in the community. To learn more about the program and see a list of schools, visit: www.hollywoodfl.org/1543/School-Zone-Safety-Camera-Program Back To School Join in the fun at the Community Enhancement Collaboration's - 19th Annual Back-to-School & Family Fun Day this Saturday, August 17th, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will be held at the Washington Park Community Center, 5199 Pembroke Road, Hollywood, Florida 33021. For more information, visit: www.cecwashpark.org Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk Looking for a FREE fun night out? Come to the Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk, this Saturday, August 17th. You will have the opportunity to visit galleries and shops in Downtown Hollywood while enjoying art, cultural entertainment, live music, murals and more! Artisan Market at the ArtWalk: 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Join locals for the Artisan Market at the ArtWalk! Featuring pop-up shops, artist showcases, handmade items, local purveyors, vintage shopping, boutique goods and FUN! Located on Harrison Street between 20th & 21st Avenue. Mural Tour: 6:00 p.m. This FREE guided tour lets you learn the stories behind the art and artists of the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project. Meet at the Information Tent at 20th Avenue & Harrison Street. Gallery Tour: 7:00 p.m. & 9:00 p.m. Join Evan Snow of Choose954 for a FREE guided and curated ArtWalk experience. Get an opportunity to meet with the local artists of each gallery in Downtown Hollywood. Meet at the Information Tent at 20th Avenue & Harrison Street. Cinema Paradiso: 10:00 p.m. Catch an amazing sleight-of-hand performance by "Magic Jack" Maxwell at 2008 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33020. The event is FREE. Live Music: 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. FREE live performances on August 17th, 2024: 6:00 p.m.: DJ Tony Tiru, 8:00 p.m.: TBA on the MAIN STAGE: Harrison Street at 21st Avenue. For More information, call: (954) 924-2980 Parking Information Downtown Hollywood offers On-Street Metered Parking for $1.50 Per Hour, as well as Municipal Garage Parking for $1 Per Hour. Municipal garage location: 251 South 20th Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33020 (between Harrison Street and Van Buren Street). Valet Parking is available for a $10 Flat Rate Thursday - Sunday, 5:00 p.m. - 5:00 a.m., and is conveniently located in front of 1925 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33020. < Previous News Next News >

The Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami: (MOCA) Offers Robust Public Programming Throughout October Thu Oct 06 2022 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Show Must Go On & Here’s Your Ticket: Embark On A Journey That Brings The Performing Arts To Life June 9, 2023 Share Have you ever dreamt of being part of the magic behind the scenes of a live theater performance? If so, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center has an incredible opportunity for you. Join their volunteer team as an usher and embark on a journey that not only brings the performing arts to life but also allows you to give back to the community. Volunteering at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is an experience that goes beyond the act of helping others. It's a chance to meet exciting people who share your passion for the arts and create lasting friendships. As a volunteer, you'll become part of a close-knit community of Aventura neighbors and friends from all over South Florida who form the volunteer family. Ushering is a rewarding role that offers volunteers the opportunity to expand their horizons, explore new interests, and contribute to the vibrant cultural community of South Florida. By committing to a regular weekly shift, you become an essential part of the theater's operations. Whether you choose an evening or matinee shift, your presence ensures that patrons have a memorable and enjoyable experience. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center welcomes volunteers of all ages, from Retired Seniors and Baby Boomers to High School Students who may receive Community Service Hours. The safety of volunteers and guests is of paramount importance at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. In collaboration with the renowned Cleveland Clinic, the center has developed comprehensive Health & Safety Guidelines. These guidelines adhere to the recommendations provided by local and state health officials as well as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). By following these guidelines, the center ensures a safe and secure environment for everyone involved. To become a volunteer, there are a few requirements you need to meet. First, you should be a full-time year-round resident of South Florida. Second, you must commit to a regular weekly shift, either during the day or at night. Additionally, you'll need to attend a formal orientation training session, which will be scheduled by the volunteer office. The Volunteer Manual will provide you with all the necessary standards and policies that you need to adhere to. Lastly, you should have the ability to escort patrons to their seats in all levels of the theater and possess a great attitude to serve as needed. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is managed by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts (PACA) and has quickly become a hub for cultural excellence in the vibrant city of Aventura. Nestled in one of the most desirable destinations in South Florida, the center continues to bring an extraordinary world of cultural opportunities to the community. When it comes to accessibility, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center has made it convenient for volunteers and guests alike. Self-parking is FREE and available in the lots adjacent to the center, located in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. If you're interested in volunteering and being part of this incredible experience, you can apply online at: https://aventuracenter.org/support/volunteer - Or contact the volunteer office at: (305) 466-8002. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center eagerly awaits your participation. Make a difference in the arts, connect with like-minded individuals, and create cherished memories by joining the volunteer team at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. The show must go on, and with your help, it will continue to shine brighter than ever. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

Art & Culture Center/Hollywood: 15th Annual Exposed & Sophia Lacroix Exhibitions August 3, 2023 Share The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood’s Exposed Exhibition gives the opportunity for art patrons to become art buyers during an exciting and lively fundraising affair in which every ticket holder takes home an original work of art for their collection. The Fundraiser returns with an opening reception on Saturday, September 2nd, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. The Exhibition will run through Saturday, September 30th, 2023 with the draw set for that night from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Exposed will feature more than 70 contemporary artists in an exhibition that culminates with an exciting closing-night draw for participants and their guests. Names are drawn one-by-one for the chance to select any work of art that has not yet been claimed. For the 15th edition of this popular exhibition and fundraiser, the Center will give ticket buyers on the closing-night draw two options for selecting their artwork – in person in the Center’s Main Gallery or they can have a designated Center staff member pick their artwork by proxy while watching the event live streamed on the Center's Facebook Live. For details on how proxies work, please call: (954) 921-3274. Everyone is a winner at this one-of-a-kind art event. Funds raised at Exposed will support the Center’s year-round calendar of Gallery Exhibitions and Events. This is a great way to support the Center and get new artwork for your collection. Ticket buyers who choose to participate in the closing-night draw in person may bring a plus one to the gallery. All tickets holders will receive complimentary admission during the exhibition dates and may schedule a private tour with the Center’s Curator. Tickets to participate in the closing-night draw: $375 for one artwork, $725 for two artworks, or $1,000 for three artworks. The event will take place Friday, September 29th, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., with the Draw taking place at 8:00 p.m. If you have any questions about the 15th Annual Exposed Exhibition please contact: (954) 921-3274. Or for tickets visit: www.artandculturecenter.org Sophia Lacroix: Vivid Caribbean Nostalgia The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is thrilled to present the first Solo Exhibition for Sophia Lacroix. Born and raised in Haiti, Self-Taught Artist Sophia Lacroix migrated to the U.S. at the age of 15. Lacroix creates hyper-realistic oil paintings and charcoal drawing scenes of everyday life and her nostalgic memories of Haiti. The opening reception will be held Saturday, August 19th, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The Exhibition will be on display from Saturday, August 19th, 2023 – Friday, September 29th, 2023. Lacroix was selected for a solo exhibition from the 2022 Florida Biennial. The 11th edition, entitled 2022 Florida Biennial: Installations, Portraiture, Materiality, and Magic Realism was juried by Ylva Rouse, Senior Curator at MOCA Jacksonville. Rouse reviewed over 1,000 submitted works from 349 artists from throughout Florida. From the large number of submissions, 24 artists representing eight Florida counties were selected by Rouse. Lacroix was chosen from the 24 artists to present a new body of work at the Center. This exhibition reveals highly detailed portraits of people in everyday routines and activities inspired by Lacroix’s memories of Haiti. Figures are often surrounded by abundant fruits, handwoven baskets, and tropical plants. The laborious detail is mirrored in the images themselves, indicating both the beauty and conviction in the figures conveyed. Sophia Lacroix was included in the Exhibition Introspective: A Reckoning of the Soul curated by Marie Vickles at the Center (2021). Outdoor public projects include a large-scale mural commissioned by the City of Miami at the Little Haiti Cultural Center (2008) and a wrapped utility box organized by the U-Wrap NoMi Art in Public Places Initiative by the City of North Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (2021). Her work has been published in several magazines, books, and newspapers, including the book Here, There...and Beyond: The Work of 16 Haitian Artists of Florida (2009). About The Center The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supported in part by its members, admissions, private entities, the City of Hollywood; the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council; the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture; the David and Francie Horvitz Family Foundation; and the Josephine S. Leiser Foundation. We welcome donations from all members of the community who wish to support our work. The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is located at 1650 Harrison Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020. For more information, call: (954) 921-3274 Or via email: info@artandculturecenter.org . < Previous News Next News >

Retiring Well: 68% Of Americans Say It's Living A Little By Affording Experiences That Bring Joy (BPT) February 20, 2025 Share What makes for retiring well? For most Americans, it's living a little by affording experiences that bring joy (68%) and enjoying a high quality of life (49%), balanced by the security of reaching savings milestones (68%), according to new Empower research. Big and little joys Most agree satisfaction in retirement includes the ability to pay bills on time and in full (68%) and living debt-free (63%) - including owning a home outright (55%). Some 42% of people say it comes down to experiences, like the ability to travel the world, and to give back by volunteering (25%). Everything in its time Having a clear timeline brings peace of mind for many - 66% say they have a goal retirement age in mind, including 73% of men and 61% of women. Over two-thirds of Americans (67%) have savings milestones to reach before retirement - goals that they're striving for - including setting aside funds for emergencies (57%), travel (33%) and leisure activities like starting a new hobby (32%). About the same number (68%) say their happiness in retirement depends most on reaching their retirement savings goal. Many Gen Xers emphasize leaving behind an inheritance for their children (42%). Travel and leisure When choosing a place to retire, most people (86%) prefer to live where they can maintain their lifestyle without stressing about money, and low cost of living (38%) factors high on the list. For many that means relocating, with 42% saying they plan to move to a different city or state to retire. Some 37% prioritize proximity to family and friends, although 43% say they prefer to retire where it's more affordable, even if it means being far from their loved ones. For others, home is where happiness already exists - 23% describe their current location as their happy place. Many see retirement as an opportunity for a fresh start; 16% of people imagine retiring in a different country altogether, seeking adventure and change in their golden years. Nearly 2 in 5 Gen Zers have set a goal for a travel fund (44%) in retirement. MethodologyEmpower surveyed 1,013 Americans on December 5, 2024. < Previous News Next News >

A Festive Blast From The Past: "Christmas With The Ricardos" At Aventura Arts & Cultural Center November 10, 2023 Share This holiday season, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in South Florida is set to transport audiences to a time of classic laughter and timeless entertainment with "Christmas with the Ricardos." The spotlight falls on the beloved redhead and television icon, Lucille Ball, known for her endearing portrayal of Lucy Ricardo in the ever-popular "I Love Lucy" Show. Set to grace the stage on Saturday, December 23rd, this performance promises a delightful mix of nostalgic charm and yuletide cheer, set against the backdrop of the Ricardos' mischievous escapades and festive celebrations. It's a special tribute to the holiday season featuring favorite Christmas melodies, side-splitting comedy skits, and the unmistakable humor from the legendary '50s sitcom. This unique production showcases an authentic and talented Lucille Ball impersonator whose striking resemblance and impeccable portrayal will have audiences believing Lucy Ricardo has stepped right off the screen and onto the stage. The show takes the audience on a whimsical journey as Lucy and Ricky Ricardo decide to flee the wintry weather, opting for a Florida vacation. The audience will find themselves amidst Lucy's antics, which include her quirky rendition of "The Nutcracker," playful disguises as Santa Claus, and a heartwarming duet of "Baby it's Cold Outside" alongside the charming Ricky. "I Love Lucy" Trivia Lucille Ball agreed to star in I Love Lucy only if her real-life husband was cast in the co-starring role. Network executives and sponsors, reflecting xenophobic attitudes of the 1950’s, hesitated to showcase an intermarriage on television. As Lucy remembered: They “said the public wouldn’t believe I was married to Desi.” Lucille Ball held her ground and ultimately proved that the American public not only accepted Desi Arnaz but venerated him as one of the most influential artists of the era, and of the 20th Century. Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz were the television industry’s first millionaires. I Love Lucy was adapted for television from the popular radio comedy My Favorite Husband, which featured Lucille Ball opposite Richard Denning. The radio show was written by Jess Oppenheimer, Madelyn Pugh, and Bob Carroll Jr., who all went on to write for I Love Lucy. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180 and offers a platform for this unforgettable event. To secure your seats, tickets can be purchased via the official ticketing service, Ticketmaster. Tickets are available online at: www.aventuracenter.org - Via phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222 and in person at the box office from Wednesday through Saturday, 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m., as well as 90 minutes before each performance. For those planning to attend in groups, Group Sales are available by calling: (954) 660-6307, offering an excellent opportunity to enjoy this holiday spectacle with friends and family. Moreover, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center ensures a hassle-free experience for attendees. FREE parking is conveniently available in the lots adjacent to the center, located in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Additionally, valet services are offered for most performances at a reasonable fee of $20 per vehicle, situated at the main entrance in a designated circular drive, which includes a convenient drop-off area. This heartwarming and laughter-filled tribute to the iconic 'I Love Lucy' Show is a perfect way to celebrate the season, bridging the past with the present for a joyous and memorable holiday experience. Don't miss this chance to be part of the magic as the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center brings "Christmas with the Ricardos" to life, ensuring an evening of classic entertainment and festive delight for all ages. Join in the excitement and conversation on Social Media Platforms such as: Twitter, Facebook and Instagram by following @aventuracenter or using the hashtag #aventuracenter. < Previous News Next News >

Intersection Safety Cameras Aim To Curb Red-Light Running Thu Jul 25 2024 16:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Together We Can Outrun Hunger: Feeding South Florida® To Host 12th Annual Outrun Hunger 5K March 9, 2023 Share On Saturday, April 8th, 2023, Feeding South Florida®, the leading hunger-relief organization in South Florida, will host its 12th Annual Outrun Hunger 5K. Runners, walkers, families and community leaders of all ages will come together to take steps to raise funds and awareness to end hunger in South Florida at the scenic Charnow Beachfront Park overlooking the ocean. Currently in South Florida, there are over 1.1 million food insecure individuals and 1 in 9 individuals in South Florida remain uncertain about where they will get their next meal. Registration is currently open to all four counties that Feeding South Florida serves including Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe at: https://feedingsouthflorida.org/runFLL Feeding South Florida, the sole Feeding America® Food Bank serving South Florida, rescues and distributes more than 44 million pounds of food each year, through direct service programs and a network of nonprofit partner agencies. It serves 25 percent of the state’s food insecure population throughout Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. In South Florida, 784,110 individuals are food insecure and one in five children go to bed hungry. “This signature event has grown year after year,” said Feeding South Florida President and CEO Paco Vélez. “The Outrun Hunger 5K is a great way to help our local neighbors in need of food assistance. Feeding South Florida is the largest, most efficient food bank serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. More than 98% of all donations are put back into the community. Through innovative direct-service programs and a network of nonprofit partner agencies, Feeding South Florida distributed nearly 176 million pounds of food (146 million meals) last year to over 1.4 million individuals. For every $1 donated, Feeding South Florida can provide 9 meals. Hunger does not discriminate. It knows no race, religion or age. In fact, the faces of hunger may surprise you. Over 60 percent of the 706,000 individuals they serve have at least one working adult in the household. Many families are underemployed, supporting multiple generations or may have fallen on hard times and need a little help to get by. Outrun Hunger 5K Runners and walkers not only can participate in the race, but also fundraise to help end hunger in South Florida, by creating a custom fundraising Web page. Even those who want to help Feeding South Florida Outrun Hunger, but don’t want to run or walk, can support the organization as a virtual runner by creating a personalized fundraising page. To create a customized fundraising page, visit: https://feedingsouthflorida.org/events/ When: Saturday, April 8th, 2023 6:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Registration begins: 6:30 a.m. Outrun Hunger 5K start: 7:30 a.m. Where: Charnow Park 300 Connecticut Street, Hollywood, Florida 33019 Cost: Registration: $25 Registration + T-shirt: $40 Hunger Hero: $250 For more information and to register, participants can visit: https://feedingsouthflorida.org/runFLL Event sponsorships and in-kind donations are available. For more information, contact Kimberly Heimiller at: (954) 518-1818 Extension#: 1856. Or: kheimiller@feedingsouthflorida.org About Feeding South Florida®: Feeding South Florida is a member of the Feeding America® Network of food banks and the leading domestic hunger-relief organization serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. Providing support for 25 percent of the state’s food insecure population, its mission is to end hunger in South Florida by providing immediate access to nutritious food, leading hunger and poverty advocacy efforts and transforming lives through innovative programming and education. Feeding South Florida® served more than *1.1 million individuals through direct-service programs and a local network of more than 350 nonprofit and community partners. Visit: www.feedingsouthflorida.org Or call: (954) 518-1818. < Previous News Next News >