Aventura Branch Library Happenings - Creative Kids, Eye Screenings, Painting Fun With Sandi And Much More Aventura Digest December 18, 2024 Share The Aventura Branch Library has a wide variety of On-line and In-Person events. There will be e-Device Advice, a Monthly Book Club, Parenting Class and much more. Some events may require you to RSVP, so, please go On-Line to register At: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura - Or for more information prior to attending the event, Call: (305) 931-5512. Creative Kids: Thursday, December 19th, 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Enjoy a dynamic art program designed to help kids explore their inner creativity, from painting to collage. Presented by local art magnet student instructors. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 11 years. e-Device Advice: Thursday, December 19th & Thursday, December 26th, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Need help with your electronic device? Instructors from Generation Technology will be available to assist you. Please bring your device for hands-on learning. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Overdose Prevention Training: Thursday, December 19th, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Learn how to recognize an overdose and save a life using Narcan (Naloxone). Free Narcan Kit and Fentanyl test strips for attendees. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 12 and up. Introduction To Computers: Saturday, December 21st & Saturday, December 28th, 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Learn the basics of computers, including how to use a mouse and keyboard, write in a Word document, browse the internet, use email and more! Taught by instructors from Collective Sistahood. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Monthly Book Club: Saturday, December 21st, 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Join your peers for a lively book discussion. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Chess Club: Monday, December 23rd & Monday, December 30th, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sharpen your Chess skills by playing with others! Fun for beginners and more advanced players alike. Meets in the auditorium. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 8 years and up. Kids Learn Tech - Presented By Tech 4 Now: Saturday, December 28th, 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Be prepared for success in today's digital world! Learn essential skills in coding, computer navigation, safe internet usage and how to conduct research. Please bring your own laptop or tablet. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 8 - 12 years. Parenting Class - Learn The Emotional Needs Of Your Children: Friday, January 3rd, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Weekly advice sessions for parents of children ages 0-6 offered by Cayuga Centers in conjunction with The Children's Trust. Topics covered include positive discipline, attachment, communication, setting limits, and more led by Maria Soledad Lizarraga, B.A. Psychology and Developmental Specialist, PACE Program. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Painting Fun With Sandi!: Tuesday, January 7th, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Join Artist Sandi Levy for a series of hands-on sessions where you'll learn about various mixed media, including acrylics, watercolor and collage. Students will go home with their finished work of art! For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Overcoming Stress & Anxiety with Meditation: Wednesday, January 8th, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Join experienced Meditation Instructor Steve Pollack to learn simple meditation techniques and apply them during a brief guided session. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Take & Make Crafts: Wednesday, January 8th, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Come to the library to pick up supplies to create an awesome craft at home! Available while supplies last. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 11 years. Lion's Club Eye Screenings: Thursday, January 9th, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Receive free eye screenings offered by Lion's Club International in collaboration with the Florida Heiken Children's Vision Program. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . All ages. Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group - Presented by the Alzheimer's Association: Thursday, January 9th, 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Build a support system with others who understand your journey as a caregiver to a loved one with Dementia. Join this Alzheimer's support group to exchange information on challenges, possible solutions, coping strategies and available community resources. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Some of the above events are On-line. To register, go to: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura For more information, feel free to contact the Aventura Branch At: (305) 931-5512. The Aventura Branch Library is located at 2930 Aventura Boulevard, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

Dedicated To Helping You Achieve Your Goals: The City Of Hollywood Small Business Assistance Center Opens At City Hall Thu Jun 13 2024 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Beat The Heat: At Gulfstream Park Village This Summer June 22, 2023 Share This summer, beat the heat at Gulfstream Park Village, South Florida’s favorite entertainment destination! With over 242 acres situated in both Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, Gulfstream Park Village’s convenient location is the perfect spot to meet with friends, family or coworkers this summer. It’s also a great place to take the kids. Gulfstream Park Village is home to more than 15 restaurants and bars with dining choices for every taste and budget. Yard House, home to the world’s largest selection of Tap Beers and irresistible bar bites, has the best Classic Rock playlist in town. Christine Lee’s is a top pick for mouthwatering Asian-inspired dishes, including heavenly cuts of Sirloin and unparalleled Sushi. Bissaleh Steakhouse is a Kosher dream with an assortment of Steaks, Chops and imaginative Vegetarian options as well and Texas de Brazil is an authentic Churrascaria with dynamic tableside service and an unparalleled salad bar. For something sweet, Häagen-Dazs offers an endless assortment of ice cream and other frozen treats and Pastry is Art features an assortment of pastries and desserts created fresh every day. Stay cool with a variety of entertainment options. For the action-seeking crowd, Strike 10 Bowling & Sports Lounge offers bowling, billiards and arcade fun for groups or families with delicious dining options. Color Me Mine Pottery painting is a hit for kids of all ages as well as a date-night favorite where everyone can try their hand at painting the perfect piece of art to call their own. For those looking to let loose, PlugIN Karaoke offers endless fun with private rooms that are great for Happy Hour, a night out, or a birthday party. Want to look your best? Venetian Nail Spa, Nadia Paris Hair Salon and Ideal Image are all conveniently located in the Village. And, if you’re looking for the latest way to stay trim there’s Impulse Body Fitness, where you can burn up to 2,000 calories in 25 minutes. Anchored by the legendary Gulfstream Park Racetrack, Gulfstream Park Village is South Florida’s premier wellness, entertainment, and dining destination. Gulfstream Park Village is located at 901 South Federal Highway in Hallandale Beach, Florida, just two miles east of I-95. < Previous News Next News >

Boys & Girls Clubs Of Miami-Dade Names Sebastian Garcia Its 2026 Youth Of The Year Aventura Digest Apr 23, 2026 Boys & Girls Clubs Of Miami-Dade Is Proud To Announce It Has Named Sebastian Garcia (17), Its 2026 Youth Of The Year. A Panel Of Community Partners Served As The Judges To Select This Year's Youth Of The Year. To achieve the title of Youth of the Year on any level, Club members must embody the values of leadership and service, academic excellence and a healthy lifestyle. They should exemplify the critical impact that Boys & Girls Clubs have on the lives of young people. The scoring includes candidate essays, an interview, a speech, letters of recommendation and overall application quality. Garcia, a senior at Miami Beach Senior High School, is a member of the South Beach Club. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Garcia has made a lasting impact at the Club by speaking up for others, fostering a positive environment and stepping up as a leader. He participated in Project Blue Whale, which deepened his commitment to leadership, and took part in Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s annual “Wild About Kid” Gala and Claws for Kids. Beyond the Club, Garcia serves as President of the 5,000 Role Models, is a member of the Student Government Association and the Yearbook Club and was part of the varsity football team. He carries a 3.8 GPA and is set to graduate in June 2026. Garcia has been accepted to Suffolk University, with additional college decisions still pending. He hopes to attend Boston College or Louisiana State University, where he plans to major in business marketing. His long-term goal is to hold a position as Head of Marketing, President or CEO of a Fortune 500 company. “Being involved in Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade means having a place that I can call a second home, a place where I can grow as a leader and be able to support and give back to the community and others," said Garcia. “I want to continue using my voice to advocate for others and inspire the people around me. My goal is to keep growing as a leader and make a positive impact wherever I go.” “Sebastian is a shining example of what it means to be a Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade member,” said Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade President Alex Rodriguez-Roig. “He has demonstrated outstanding leadership, a deep commitment to his community and an unwavering drive to succeed. We are incredibly proud to name him our 2026 Youth of the Year and look forward to watching him represent Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade at the state level.” Garcia and other teens from Florida Boys & Girls Clubs competed for the 2026 Florida Youth of the Year title. The winner of the state title received a $2,500 scholarship, laptop and printer. Every year since 1955, youth from various Boys & Girls Clubs across Florida have competed for the opportunity to represent Florida as the Florida Youth of the Year. The winner of the state title then competes in the regional competition. Five regional winners then move on, and one is named the Boys & Girls Clubs of America National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year serves as both an exemplary ambassador for Boys & Girls Clubs youth and as a strong voice for all the nation's young people. He/she receives a new car courtesy of Toyota, as well as scholarships and cash totaling $60,000. The National Youth of the Year, along with the other four regional runners-up, then travel to Washington, D.C. and speak to members of Congress and meet the President of the United States. About Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade: Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade has been serving youth in the community since 1946 and is proudly celebrating its 80th Anniversary in 2026. What once was a single building and site for boys has grown to six Clubs and sites combined serving thousands of boys and girls year-round, providing programs in the areas of character and leadership development, educational enhancement, career preparation, health and life skills, cultural arts and sports, fitness and recreation. Club staffing, initiatives, and programs are designed to inspire and enable area youth and provide them with the resources to succeed and share in the American Dream. For more information, please call: (305) 446-9910. Or visit: www.bgcmia.org , Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube. Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade is proud to announce it has named Sebastian Garcia (17), its 2026 Youth of the Year. Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade is proud to announce it has named Sebastian Garcia (17), its 2026 Youth of the Year. Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade is proud to announce it has named Sebastian Garcia (17), its 2026 Youth of the Year. Previous Next

Understanding And Treating Rosacea: What You Need to Know By Feature Impact Mar 26, 2026 Rosacea Is A Chronic Skin Condition, Mainly Affecting The Face, That Causes Redness, Swelling, Pain And Changes In Appearance. It Is Estimated That More Than 16 Million People In The United States Have Rosacea, According To The National Rosacea Society (NRS), But Only About 1 Million Are Under Active Treatment. Physical impacts include prominent redness, acne-like bumps and pimples, highly visible enlarged blood vessels, pronounced dryness and unpleasant sensations like stinging, burning, itching and tingling. As many as half of sufferers also experience eye symptoms. Rosacea also affects emotional and social well-being. From lower confidence and self-esteem to avoidance of public contact and social engagements and missed work, the impacts are far-reaching. However, Rosacea can be treated and managed. Learn more about the condition with this information from the NRS and the experts at Crescel, who are transforming Rosacea care by harnessing nature and science to heal skin with their Skin Renewal Cream. It holds the NRS's Seal of Acceptance, and its therapeutic benefits and tolerance have been confirmed in multiple clinical studies. "Sensitive and easily irritated skin is a common issue for people with Rosacea, and harsh products can aggravate the condition," said Andrew Huff, Executive Director of the NRS. "That's why the NRS expertly evaluates skin care and cosmetic products to ensure they are gentle, clinically tested and found to be unlikely to irritate sensitive Rosacea skin." What causes Rosacea? The exact cause of Rosacea is not fully understood. However, research suggests facial redness is often the first step in a chain of skin inflammation. This process may begin when the nerves, blood vessels and immune system don't work together as they should. Researchers have also found a microscopic skin mite called Demodex may play a role. These tiny arachnids normally live within hair follicles and oil glands on everyone's skin, but people with Rosacea tend to have higher numbers on the face, which may contribute to irritation and inflammation. Some studies have found links between Rosacea and other health conditions, such as Heart Disease, digestive disorders, Neurological or Autoimmune conditions and certain Cancers. These findings suggest Rosacea may be related to inflammation throughout the body. What are the most common symptoms? The most common symptoms of Rosacea include: • Easy or severe blushing or flushing • Persistent redness • Bumps and pimples on the skin without blackheads • Burning or itching sensation • Swelling Symptoms are different for each person and can change over time. There may be times when symptoms are worse and instances when they become milder. What triggers a flare up? Rosacea patients can improve their chances of maintaining remission by identifying and avoiding lifestyle and environmental factors that trigger flare-ups or aggravate the condition. Common triggers include sun exposure, stress, extreme temperatures, heavy exercise, alcohol consumption, spicy foods and some skin, hair and makeup products. What causes a flare-up in one person may have no effect on another, making this a highly individualized process. Knowing what triggers your flare-ups can help reduce discomfort, improve treatment results and prevent the condition from getting worse. How do you treat Rosacea? Because the signs and symptoms of Rosacea vary from one patient to another, treatment is tailored by a physician for each individual case. It typically involves three key elements: 1. Skin care: Committing to a gentle routine using mild, non-irritating products. 2. Lifestyle management: Identifying and reducing exposure to triggers. 3. Medication and other therapies: Combining topical and oral treatments along with laser therapy to target various symptoms. As the world's first intelligent therapeutic, Crescel's Skin Renewal Cream harnesses nature and science to heal skin. The cream contains: • Pioneering microemulsion technology that enables continuous delivery of critical cellular nutrients that are essential for skin healing. • A unique absorption system, which allows healing nutrients to easily enter the cell. • Mitochondria reboot technology that restores the mitochondria's ability to repair dysfunctional skin cells while reinforcing the skin's natural barrier, reducing the risk of future irritation and flare-ups. Talk with your dermatologist about your treatment routine and visit: https://crescel.com to learn more about Rosacea care. Previous Next

Easy DIYs To Display Your Love On Valentine's Day Wed Feb 08 2023 17:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hallandale’s Vapor Shark evolves into Elevate Smoke Shop PROFILES February 4, 2022 Share Vapor Shark in Hallandale Beach, opened nine years ago as a vaporizer store selling electronic cigarettes. Two years ago, it began evolving into a full-service smoke shop, doing business as Elevate Smoke Shop, selling all kinds of smoking products, including tobacco. “We have the credibility and trust from consumers after our many years in the market delivering high-quality products and service,” says proprietor Geo Tejada. “We specialize in what we do and focus on excellent products, product knowledge, and customer service. “We know all of the alternatives to smoking cigarettes, so we can help our customers to transition to a product that is more beneficial to their smoking experience.” Also, as the laws governing smoking have changed, placing an online order for smoking products has become more complicated. “Lawmakers don’t want these products to end up in the hands of minors,” Tejada says. “The new laws force you to come to a reputable store, where the salesperson can check your identification, to make sure these products and devices are being sold only to responsible adults. “At Vapor Shark, we follow the rules for what is being done ethically and correctly in the marketplace. A lot of mom-and-pop smoke shops will help anybody who walks in. We don’t do that.” Today, the 1,500 sq. ft. establishment is a smoker’s version of the proverbial “kid in a candy store,” filled with displays for all kinds of tobacco and alternative products. Here is an overview: E-cigarettes Electronic cigarettes were developed as an alternative to smoking tobacco. They eliminate the tars and other byproducts found in tobacco smoke, and in this sense, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “E-cigarettes have the potential to benefit adult smokers who are not pregnant, if used as a complete substitute for regular cigarettes and other smoked tobacco products.” E-cigarettes are vapor products. They consist of a battery-powered heating element and a tank holding a liquid “juice.” When heated, the juice forms an aerosol that the user inhales. The juice contains nicotine, the primary addictive ingredient in tobacco. Other ingredients in the vapor may include propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin and a flavoring agent. “The level of nicotine in the juice ranges from 0 to 50 percent,” Tejada says. “This helps smokers switch from smoking cigarettes to vaping and gradually reduce their nicotine consumption.” Vapor Shark offers a wide variety of vaping devices and juices. Fumes Fumes are disposable electronic cigarette devices. They come with a built-in battery, coils and filters that don’t need changing and a supply of flavored e-juice. “You buy it for the flavor, use it for 1,000 to 2,500 puffs, then dispose of it and buy a different flavor,” Tejada says. Some of Vapor Shark’s most popular flavors are cool mint, grape, mango, melon ice, piña colada, and strawberry banana. Also available is “Cuban tobacco” flavor, which doesn’t come from Cuba. “That would be illegal,” Tejada emphasizes. Hookahs A hookah (water pipe) is a glass or plastic vase topped with a bowl where tobacco or some other substance, called shisha, is burned. The smoke passes through water in the vase and then into a hose on which the smoker sucks. Shisha may be a combination of flavored tobacco with a molasses base, or some tobacco-free herbal preparation, plus charcoal to create the combustion, Tejada explains. Shisha flavors span a broad range, including fruit, mint, spice, vegetable combinations and different kinds of tobacco with varying strengths of nicotine (or none at all). Vapor Shark sells a complete line of hookahs and supplies, including the pipes themselves in a variety of sizes, shapes and a vast array of smoking options. Pipes Unless you’re watching a Sherlock Holmes movie, you may not see many old-style pipes these days, but they’re still around. Vapor Shark sells an assortment of wooden and glass pipes. They come in different sizes and shapes. You pack the bowl with tobacco and light it directly with a match or lighter. The shop also sells multiple flavors and strains of pipe tobacco. These pipes also can be used to smoke hemp flowers. Roll-your-own cigarettes The paper on commercially manufactured cigarettes may contain many impurities that affect the flavor of the product. As a result, some smokers prefer to roll their own cigarettes. Vapor Shark sells unrefined hemp rolling papers with no chemical additives - just the purest natural fibers of organic hemp. So what do you roll in these papers? Choose from a variety of high-quality tobacco leaves or hemp flowers. Vapor Shark has three convenient locations - the one in Hallandale Beach, and two others in Hialeah. All are open from 10 AM to 10 PM daily: 730 W Hallandale Beach Blvd., Unit 107 Hallandale Beach, FL 33009 Phone: 954-210-8921 2794 W 68th St., unit 108 Hialeah FL 33016 Phone: 305-503-0150 459 E 49th St. Hialeah FL 33013 Phone: 786-636-1643 < Previous News Next News >

Miami-Dade Dog Park Advisory: Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex Fri Apr 08 2022 04:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

4 Tips To Mind Your Mental Health In 2024 By Family Features December 28, 2023 Share There's never a bad time to commit to managing your Mental Health, but the new year tends to make wellness a bigger priority. Wellness resolutions often focus on diet and exercise, but taking steps to improve your Mental Well-Being is equally important. In fact, your Mental Health can play a critical role in your Physical Health. Stress, Anxiety and other Manifestations of Mental and Emotional Distress can trigger Physiological Responses in your body that may erode your health over time. For example, if you're continually under a high level of Stress, chances are your Blood Pressure runs higher than it should, and that in turn poses a risk for Heart Disease and related conditions. As you turn the page toward 2024, renew your commitment to self-care and managing your Mental Health with these tips: 1. Set realistic goals. Having something to work toward and look forward to is a healthy way to occupy your mind. Decide what you'd like to achieve this year and identify milestones toward your ultimate goal. Celebrating when you achieve each milestone can keep you motivated and help measure your progress along the way. 2. Nurture personal relationships. Loneliness is a major contributor to Mental Health Struggles and having even a couple close relationships can help provide you with an essential sense of connection and belonging. Whether you talk in person, by video or text, make time to talk to family and friends. If you find your circle is smaller than you'd like, try taking a class or joining an organization where you can meet others who share your interests. 3. Alleviate Stress. A little bit of pressure can push you to do your best, but living in a Constant State of Stress can be bad for your health. Take time to understand your Stress Triggers and actively work to avoid them. If that's not fully possible, dedicate a portion of each day to De-Stressing and clearing your mind. You might choose Meditation, Exercise, Reading or Listening to Music, all of which let you relax your mind and focus your attention on something else. 4. Sleep more. Getting enough sleep means 7-9 hours each night, according to most experts, as it's one of the best ways to protect your Overall Health and ensure you're in the right frame of mind to approach the day. When you're sleep deprived, you're less capable of problem-solving, making decisions and managing your emotions and behavior. Studies have also shown poor sleep habits are linked to Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and other Mental Health Conditions. If winding down is an issue, try creating a bedtime routine that makes it easier to get to sleep. Find more tips to promote healthy living at: www.eLivingtoday.com < Previous News Next News >

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

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