Galleria Fort Lauderdale Presents BLOOM, An Earth Day Juried Art Exhibition South Florida Sun Times Apr 17, 2025 As Earth Day Approaches, An Exciting Opportunity To Celebrate Our Planet’s Natural Beauty Takes Center Stage At Galleria Fort Lauderdale. On Thursday, April 24th, 2025, From 5:30 p.m. To 7:30 p.m., The Shopping And Cultural Hub Will Host BLOOM, A Juried Art Exhibition That Offers An Inspiring Exploration Of The Environment Through The Eyes Of South Florida’s Vibrant Artistic Community. Presented in collaboration with Art and Culture Center/Hollywood, ArtServe, ArtsUnited and History Fort Lauderdale, BLOOM promises to showcase more than 50 local artists who have captured the essence of nature in all its forms - from the lush greenery of mangroves to the dynamic coastlines and the flourishing wildlife that calls South Florida home. The event will not only spotlight artistic talent but also offer a platform for conversations around environmental awareness and the preservation of the planet. This free, one-night-only event is set to bring together art lovers, community members and environmental enthusiasts. At the heart of the exhibition, the Best in Show artwork will be awarded a $500 prize, which will be announced during the BLOOM reception. Adding an extra layer of excitement, the event will feature a special live performance by Ry Rivers, whose music will enhance the atmosphere of creative celebration. An Artistic Tribute to Nature BLOOM invites visitors to immerse themselves in a diverse array of artistic mediums. The exhibition will feature multimedia paintings, sculptures, photography and even fashion, with each artist offering their unique interpretation of nature’s breathtaking beauty. Whether through a canvas that mimics the texture of a forest floor or a photograph that captures the splendor of a coastal sunrise, the art presented is designed to evoke a deeper appreciation for the environment. “Galleria Fort Lauderdale is proud to present this one-night-only art exhibition, in collaboration with local arts and history organizations, to revel in the beauty that surrounds us,” said Melissa Milroy, Senior Marketing Manager at Galleria Fort Lauderdale. “BLOOM offers a unique opportunity for artists to showcase their talents and contribute to an environmental celebration through visual storytelling.” The collection of over 60 artworks will be carefully curated from more than 150 submissions. Each piece is a testament to the creativity and passion of South Florida’s artists, whose works range in style, subject matter and technique. Notable local talents featured in the exhibition include Tim Forman, Jamie Rodriguez, Tricia Rutsis, Nadine Floyd, Suzanne Barton, Walter McBride and Claudette Sernius. These renowned artists, along with emerging voices in the community, have come together to create a vibrant display that honors Earth Day’s message of environmental consciousness. A Focus on Sustainability In addition to the visual experience, BLOOM highlights the importance of sustainability and conservation, echoing the broader movement to protect and preserve our natural resources. Through the lens of art, visitors will be invited to reflect on how everyday choices impact the planet. The event’s organizers hope that the exhibition will spark meaningful conversations about sustainability, recycling and reducing waste, encouraging attendees to consider their role in a more eco-friendly future. Sustainability is also at the core of the exhibition’s design. With a focus on reducing environmental impact, the event will incorporate eco-conscious materials and practices, ensuring that the celebration of Earth Day is as green as the artwork on display. One of the most exciting aspects of BLOOM is the collaboration between Galleria Fort Lauderdale and a number of local cultural organizations. Art and Culture Center/Hollywood, ArtServe, ArtsUnited and History Fort Lauderdale have come together to create an event that goes beyond showcasing art. Their collective effort highlights the strength of community partnerships and the shared commitment to promoting art and culture throughout the region. The beauty of BLOOM is in the collaboration between various organizations who are dedicated to nurturing the arts and engaging the public in meaningful ways. By bringing together such a wide array of organizations and artists, it's not just an exhibition, it's an experience that showcases the power of art to inspire action. This sense of community and artistic unity is further reflected in the venue itself. Galleria Fort Lauderdale, known for its prime location and wide array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, provides an ideal setting for the exhibition. Its close proximity to Fort Lauderdale Beach, as well as its central location within the city, ensures that BLOOM will attract a diverse audience from all walks of life. Join the Celebration Attendees of BLOOM will not only be able to view the stunning artwork on display but will also have the chance to connect with artists and other members of the local creative community. The event offers an opportunity to engage with the artwork on a deeper level, whether through personal reflections or through conversations with the creators themselves. For those interested in attending, registration is open via the link at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bloom-art-exhibition-at-galleria-fort-lauderdale-tickets-1302301933139 - the event is free to attend, and the evening promises to be an inspiring celebration of art, culture and environmental stewardship. For more information about Galleria Fort Lauderdale or for a complete list of retailers, visit: www.galleriamall-fl.com - Or call: (954) 564-1036. "Flamboyance" By Suzanne Barton "Florida's Hidden Beauty" By Tim Forman Previous Next

Broadway Blockbusters, Hilarious Comics & Legendary Musicians Wed Feb 28 2024 17:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

We The Targeted: How The Government Weaponizes Surveillance To Silence Its Critics By John & Nisha Whitehead September 7, 2023 Share Ever since Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his groundbreaking “I Have A Dream” Speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28th, 1963, the Deep State has been hard at work turning King’s dream into a living nightmare. The end result of the government’s efforts over the past 60 years is a country where nothing ever really changes, and everyone lives in fear. Race wars are still being stoked by both the Right and the Left; the military-industrial complex is still waging profit-driven wars at taxpayer expense; the oligarchy is still calling the shots in the seats of government power; and the government is still weaponizing surveillance in order to muzzle anti-government sentiment, harass activists, and terrorize Americans into compliance. This last point is particularly disturbing. Starting in the 1950's, the government relied on COINTELPRO, its domestic intelligence program, to neutralize domestic political dissidents. Those targeted by the FBI under COINTELPRO for its intimidation, surveillance and smear campaigns included: Martin Luther King Jr., Malcom X, the Black Panther Party, John Lennon, Billie Holiday, Emma Goldman, Aretha Franklin, Charlie Chaplin, Ernest Hemingway, Felix Frankfurter, and hundreds more. In more recent decades, the powers-that-be have expanded their reach to target anyone who opposes the Police State, regardless of their political leanings. Advances in technology have enabled the government to deploy a veritable arsenal of surveillance weapons in order to “expose, disrupt, misdirect, discredit, or otherwise neutralize” perceived threats to the government’s power. What this adds up to is a world in which, on any given day, the average person is now monitored, surveilled, spied on and tracked in more than 20 different ways by both government and corporate eyes and ears. Consider just a small sampling of the ways in which the government is weaponizing its 360 degree surveillance technologies to flag you as a threat to national security, whether or not you’ve done anything wrong. Flagging you as a danger based on your feelings. Customs and Border Protection is reportedly using an artificial intelligence surveillance program that can detect “sentiment and emotion” in social media posts in order to identify travelers who may be “a threat to public safety, national security, or lawful trade and travel.” Flagging you as a danger based on your phone and movements. Cell phones have become de facto snitches, offering up a steady stream of digital location data on users’ movements and travels. Flagging you as a danger based on your DNA. By accessing your DNA, the government will soon know everything else about you that they don’t already know: your family chart, your ancestry, what you look like, your health history, your inclination to follow orders or chart your own course, etc. Flagging you as a danger based on your face. Facial recognition software aims to create a society in which every individual who steps out into public is tracked and recorded as they go about their daily business. Flagging you as a danger based on your behavior. Rapid advances in behavioral surveillance are not only making it possible for individuals to be monitored and tracked based on their patterns of movement or behavior, including gait recognition (the way one walks), but have given rise to whole industries that revolve around predicting one’s behavior based on data and surveillance patterns and are also shaping the behaviors of whole populations. Flagging you as a danger based on your spending and consumer activities. With every dollar we spend, we’re helping Corporate America build a dossier for its government counterparts on who we know, what we think, how we spend our money, and how we spend our time. Flagging you as a danger based on your public activities. Private corporations in conjunction with police agencies throughout the country have created a web of surveillance that encompasses all major cities in order to monitor large groups of people seamlessly, as in the case of protests and rallies. Flagging you as a danger based on your social media activities. As The Intercept reported, the FBI, CIA, NSA and other government agencies are increasingly investing in and relying on corporate surveillance technologies that can mine constitutionally protected speech on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram in order to identify potential extremists and predict who might engage in future acts of anti-government behavior. Flagging you as a danger based on your social network. Not content to merely spy on individuals through their online activity, government agencies are now using surveillance technology to track one’s social network, the people you might connect with by phone, text message, email or through social message, in order to ferret out possible criminals. Flagging you as a danger based on your car. License plate readers are mass surveillance tools that can photograph over 1,800 license tag numbers per minute, take a picture of every passing license tag number and store the tag number and the date, time, and location of the picture in a searchable database, then share the data with law enforcement, fusion centers and private companies to track the movements of persons in their cars. Flagging you as a danger based on your political views. The Church Committee, the Senate task force charged with investigating COINTELPRO abuses in 1975, concluded that the government had carried out “secret surveillance of citizens on the basis of their political beliefs, even when those beliefs posed no threat of violence or illegal acts on behalf of a hostile foreign power.” The report continued: “Groups and individuals have been harassed and disrupted because of their political views and their lifestyles… Intelligence agencies have served the political and personal objectives of presidents and other high officials.” Nothing has changed since then. Now the government wants us to believe that we have nothing to fear from these mass spying programs as long as we’ve done nothing wrong. Don’t believe it. The government’s definition of a “bad” guy is extraordinarily broad, and it results in the warrantless surveillance of innocent, law-abiding Americans on a staggering scale. Moreover, there is a repressive, suppressive effect to surveillance that not only acts as a potentially small deterrent on crime but serves to monitor and chill lawful First Amendment activity, and that is the whole point. Weaponized surveillance is re-engineering a society structured around the aesthetic of fear. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, the police state wants us silent, servile and compliant. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an Attorney and Author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of Constitutional Law, Human Rights and Popular Culture. John Whitehead's Commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org . Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org < Previous News Next News >

Surfside Condo Collapse: Here’s How to Help - Donations, Resources & Volunteer Registration July 1, 2021 Share On June 24, a condo partially collapsed in Surfside, Florida, leaving dozens of residents unaccounted for. As emergency efforts continue at the Champlain Towers site, both Collins and Harding Avenues, will remain partially closed. Residential roads are accessible to residents only. For more details on road closings, go to: www.townofsurfsidefl.gov Volunteer Information and Donations: The Town of Surfside administration would like to thank the countless individuals and organizations who have donated goods and volunteered their valuable time and resources to assist those impacted by this tragic incident. They have received thousands of volunteer applications from volunteers who would like to donate their valuable time and resources, to those impacted by the incident. No additional volunteers are needed at this time, but, the town is grateful for the overwhelming outpour of support. Donations are now being accepted at the Feeding South Florida Warehouse (2501 Southwest 32nd Terrace | Pembroke Pines, Florida 33023). For those family members who need further assistance, please call the FAMILY REUNIFICATION HOTLINE: (305) 614-1819. The Surfside Hardship Fund: The Coral Gables Community Foundation, the Miami Foundation, The Knight Foundation, Key Biscayne Community Foundation and others have set up a fund that will directly contribute to the victims and their families, who have been impacted by this tragic event. Visit: www.SupportSurfside.org . GoFundMe: On June 24, a condo partially collapsed in Surfside, Florida, leaving dozens of residents unaccounted for. A massive search and rescue effort is underway to locate survivors, reunite families, and treat injuries caused by this devastating event. Fundraising platform GoFundMe has created a dedicated webpage for all of the different funds related to the victims and those affected by it. Surfside Condo Collapse: Here’s How to Help on GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/c/act/surfside-condo-collapse-fundraisers. The fundraisers on the page ( https://www.gofundme.com/c/act/surfside-condo-collapse-fundraisers ) have been verified and are backed by the GoFund-Me Guarantee, ensuring all funds on that page will go to those affected by the Surfside condo collapse. As new fundraisers are created in response to this tragedy, GoFundMe will add them to that page. The Shul: The Shul in Surfside is now accepting donations for those impacted by the collapse. To donate, visit: https://www.theshul.org/8777 News & Updates - As of June 27th, 2021 at 8:00 p.m. What is the latest? First responders are working around the clock, to continue the search and rescue mission, to save more lives. They are not giving up hope! Our prayers are with every single family who are waiting for updates and the brave first responders, who are working tirelessly, to pull people out of the rubble. Updates for Families: In coordination with the Town of Surfside, Miami-Dade County is providing briefings on a regular basis to the families impacted by the Surfside building collapse and to share the latest updates on the investigation. Those families can call: (305) 614-1819, Or visit: www.MiamiDade.gov/emergency Families of missing loved ones, who have not yet spoken with County detectives, please visit 9301 Collins Avenue (Town of Surfside Community Center) to speak in person with a detective. Detectives are available 24 hours daily. Mental Health Support: Those seeking emotional and/or mental support are encouraged to contact the following helpline services: Disaster Distress Helpline (800) 985-5990 Florida 211 Network – 211 Crisis Text Line – Text HELLO to 741741 Prayers & Vigils Various religious organizations around the community, are holding special prayer services and/or are accepting donations on behalf of those impacted by the partial building collapse. Find updates from nearby religious institutions by visiting the websites of The Shul (www.theshul.org ), Young Israel (http://www.yicbh.org ) and Casa Church (http://www.casachurch.app ). Traffic Alert: Until further notice, Harding Avenue at 96th Street will remain closed. Residents will be allowed access into the neighborhood through 96th and Abbott. All other vehicles should find alternate routes through 163rd St or Biscayne Blvd. Support For Local Businesses: This week, Governor Ron DeSantis met on site with FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell regarding the Surfside Building Collapse response. Florida Division of Emergency Manage-ment (FDEM) Director Kevin Guthrie requested an Adminis-trative Declaration for Miami-Dade County from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide disaster loans to individuals and businesses im-pacted by the Surfside Building Collapse. The Town of Surfside will provide more information, as details become available: www.townofsurfsidefl.gov Canceled Town Events: Due to this week's tragic incident at the Champlain Tower South, the 9:00 p.m. fireworks celebration event for the 4th of July has been cancelled. While we all looked forward to celebrating America's Independence Day with neighbors after a very challenging year, it is paramount that our community support all those impacted by this tragedy over the coming weeks, as the difficult search and rescue operations continue. Assistance for Impacted Travelers: If you are visiting the area and are in need of assistance with travel-related matters including visas, airfare, personal documentation and more, please contact Lea Padron with Senator Marco Rubio's office at: Lea_Padron@Rubio.Senate.gov For the most updated information: https://townofsurfsidefl.gov < Previous News Next News >

Fogo de Chão Fort Lauderdale A Brazilian Epicurean Adventure By Merilee Kern, MBA Jul 16, 2025 Ensconced In The Vibrant Las Olas Boulevard Section Of Fort Lauderdale, Fogo de Chão Offers An Incomparable Dining Experience Exuding The Warmth Of Brazilian Hospitality. With Locations Around The Globe, This Particular South Florida Location Uniquely Captures The Essence Of The Brand While Infusing It With Local Flair. The Restaurant’s Signature Commitment To Value, Variety, And Customization Shines Through In Every Detail, Making It A Standout Among Fort Lauderdale’s Dining Options. At the heart of Fogo de Chão is its dedication to balancing tradition with innovation. For over 45 years, the restaurant has celebrated the rich heritage of Brazilian churrasco, while continuously evolving its menu to meet modern tastes and dietary preferences. This is evident in offerings like its Signature Churrasco Experience, where a rotating selection of high-quality meats, carved tableside by gaucho chefs, ensures a dynamic and satisfying culinary journey free from the anxiety of choosing just one dish. Guests are also invited to indulge in dishes like the Whole Branzino, a delicately grilled fish that highlights the versatility of the churrasco cooking style, and the indulgent Caviar Brioche, which bridges the gap between luxury and approachability. The restaurant’s famed “Market Table” complements the dining experience with its vibrant array of seasonal salads, exotic vegetables, and nutrient-rich dishes, catering to diverse dietary needs including vegetarian, gluten-free, and keto options. For a deeper dive into this restaurant’s formula for success, below is a conversation with Neimar Hensel, Area Manager at Fogo de Chão, who highlights why this Fort Lauderdale hotspot offers an exceptional epicurean adventure. MK: First, what makes the Fort Lauderdale location of Fogo de Chão unique compared to other locations throughout the U.S.? NH: The Fort Lauderdale location stands out with its expansive outdoor patio, offering a unique dining experience in the open air, with views of the waterfront. The venue combines the laid-back South Florida vibe with vibrant Brazilian culture. Our Fort Lauderdale location also features a butcher shop storefront where our gauchos, professionally trained chefs, expertly prepare premium cuts, and can offer you popular cuts like Ribeyes, NY Strip Steaks, and Filet Mignon, as well as more authentic Brazilian cuts including Picanha and Fraldinha to take home. At Fogo, we focus on the three most important aspects of dining out for our guests, which are value, variety and customization. We offer customizable menu offerings so everyone can find their culinary favorites at every daypart, including weekend brunch, All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Lunch, Dinner, and fresh, seasonal soup and salads at the Market Table which is suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more. These aspects truly set us apart from other steakhouses. MK: What sets the restaurant apart from other comparable restaurant options in Fort Lauderdale? NH: Dining out often comes with “menu anxiety” or “plate envy,” where people regret their order after seeing what someone else gets. At Fogo, this stress disappears with our Signature Churrasco Experience. Guests have endless opportunities to discover new culinary options and savor their favorites including a rotating mix of high-quality proteins cut and served tableside, signature sides, and customizable dishes, which means that they don’t have to pick just one. At Fogo, we offer customizable menu offerings for every daypart, including weekend brunch, All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Lunch, Dinner, and fresh, seasonal soup and salads at the Market Table which is suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more. These aspects truly set us apart from other steakhouses. Our Dry-Aged meat locker of premium cuts offers our guests a unique, elevated and distinct culinary experience. Dry-aged premium cuts are renowned for their intensified meat flavors and enhanced tenderness. The dry-aging process of 22-42 days enhances the natural flavors of the meat while breaking down the muscle fibers, resulting in a richer, nutty, and bolder beef taste and a tender texture. Fogo’s Dry-Aged Premium Cuts are designed to share and enhance your dining occasion from birthdays to anniversaries to group meetings, feeding 2-6 guests. MK: Brazilian hospitality is a cornerstone of Fogo de Chão’s philosophy. How is this reflected in the service provided at the Fort Lauderdale location? NH: From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with warmth and a sense of care that makes them feel right at home. The gaucho chefs, who bring the churrasco meats directly to the table, create an interactive and engaging experience, ensuring each guest receives the perfect meal tailored to their preferences. At Fogo, we pride ourselves on bringing Brazilian hospitality to the heart of every city. MK: Fogo de Chão has a rich history rooted in Brazilian churrasco. How does the restaurant balance tradition with innovation in its dining experience? NH: For the past 45 years, Fogo has provided wholesome, nutritional menu options for every dietary tribe. By staying consistent with our Brazilian roots, we are continuously evolving to provide offerings that align with guests' expectations, from quality to flavor. A perfect example of this is the introduction of blistered fresh fish to our menu with the Whole Branzino. The Whole Branzino can be added to any experience and is deboned and then grilled on the churrasco grill over an open flame which blisters the skin, giving the fish a crisp and decadent flavor. Many guests don’t realize that traditional churrasco is not exclusive to steak, but also includes fresh fish. A more viral example is our Caviar Brioche. Caviar is all over Social Media, with many guests sharing they are excited to try this indulgent offering for the first time. Our Caviar Brioche allows guests to try decadent items in the form of small bites, allowing us to provide guests an attainable and approachable value for indulgent offerings. MK: What are some of the most popular cuts of meat served at this location, and do you offer any exclusive menu items specific to Fort Lauderdale? NH: The most popular cut of meat is Fogo’s signature specialty Picanha (top sirloin) and Fraldinha (bottom sirloin). Both of which are lightly seasoned in-house with salt and cooked over an open flame, then carved tableside by our Gaucho chefs. Each cut is a favorite in Brazil and loved by our guests in Fort Lauderdale and nationwide. MK: Beyond the churrasco-style meats, what other menu highlights or dishes should guests not miss? NH: I recommend guests try the new Whole Branzino. The 2lbs. Fresh, mild white fish is blistered churrasco-style and served tableside with extra virgin olive oil, lemon, and parsley, offering a delicious enhancement to the Full Churrasco Experience. I also recommend guests try our dry-aged premium cuts that are dry-aged for a minimum of 42 days and are renowned for their intensified meat flavors and enhanced tenderness. The dry-aged Tomahawk Ribeye is the perfect enhancement to any meal to discover the tender, juicy, and robust flavors. MK: Can you expand a bit on your Market Table and its role in complementing the churrasco experience? NH: The Market Table plays a key role in complementing the churrasco experience by offering a variety of seasonal salads and soups, exotic vegetables, imported cheeses, smoked salmon, cured meats, and more. It features a wide selection of nutrient-dense, whole foods, including plant-based options, allowing guests to customize their meals based on their preferences. We continue to offer fresh ingredients and create limited time offerings such as the recently added Roasted Apple & Butternut Squash Salad, Seasonal Hummus, and Carrot Ginger Soup. This adds balance and variety to the rich, savory flavors of the churrasco experience, enhancing the overall discovery dining experience with vibrant, flavorful choices. Guests are welcome to visit the Market Table as many times as they’d like during their meal. MK: How does the restaurant cater to diners with dietary preferences or restrictions, such as vegetarians or gluten-free guests? NH: Unlike traditional steakhouses, Fogo offers a variety of dining options for every dietary tribe including keto, gluten-free, vegan, and more. We offer guests specialty dishes including Seared Tofu and Sesame Black Bean Pasta, Seafood Tower complete with Lobster Tails and snow crab legs, Cauliflower Steak, Fogo’s naturally gluten-free Market Table and more. MK: For first-time visitors, what tips or advice would you offer to ensure they get the most out of their dining experience? NH: For first-time guests, I always recommend they start their experience at the Market Table with seasonal salads and soups, exotic vegetables, imported cheeses, smoked salmon, cured meats, and more. Take your time to savor the flavors from the churrasco experience, and consider adding enhancements like the Whole Branzino or Wagyu Porterhouse, especially when dining with a large group as they’re perfect for sharing with the table to spark new discoveries of culinary favorites. And, no experience is complete without a Caipirinha cocktail, made with cachaça, lime, and sugar, which offers a refreshing and authentic Brazilian flavor. MK: What is your personal favorite item on the menu? NH: My personal favorite is the Fraldinha, which has a rich flavor and a salty bark due to our churrasco cooking style. I also enjoy the Picanha, the lamb chops, and the Porterhouse. MK: What is your personal favorite aspect of the dining experience at large? NH: My favorite aspect of the dining experience at Fogo is our variety of offerings. I consider myself to be a flexitarian, eating meat, fish, and vegan meals. The variety at Fogo allows me to accommodate my changing dietary preferences on a daily basis. I, along with our guests, are never limited to one option or one dietary tribe. MK: As Fort Lauderdale continues to grow as a culinary destination, how does Fogo de Chão aim to stay ahead of dining trends while maintaining its authenticity? NH: At Fogo, we offer customizable menu offerings for every daypart, including weekend brunch, All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Lunch, Dinner, and fresh, seasonal soup and salads at the Market Table which is suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more. These aspects truly set us apart from other steakhouses. We hold quarterly wine dinners and monthly bar events that allow guests to indulge in a tailored menu with signature offerings including wagyu, with curated wine pairings to sample some of Fogo’s best offerings, encouraging guests to come back and indulge in their culinary favorites they discovered. From the interactive service of the gaucho chefs to the thoughtfully curated menu offerings, every visit to Fogo de Chão on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale is designed to create a memorable epicurean experience. As Broward County continues to thrive as a culinary destination, Fogo de Chão remains a beacon of authenticity, offering a dining experience that seamlessly marries the best of tradition and modernity. Previous Next

Broward County's Updated Flood Risk: Understanding The New FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps Thu Jul 11 2024 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hollywood ArtsPark Experience: Free Concert Featuring Karl Denson's Tiny Universe May 4, 2023 Share Bring a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy this show at the ArtsPark at Young Circle in Downtown Hollywood. (Larkin Poe, originally scheduled for this date, has canceled because of schedule conflicts) In 2023, Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe (KDTU) celebrated their 25th Anniversary as a band, a quarter-century at the heart of a Who's Who in Rock, Funk, Soul and good times. KDTU has electrified audiences worldwide, joining stages with artists including The Dave Matthews Band and The Godfather Of Soul, James Brown. From performing as Sexual Chocolate (yes, The Coming To America Band) at The Outside Lands Music Festival in San Francisco, to being the first late night act at the Inaugural Bonnaroo Festival, KDTU remains a dominating force in music. All-night, sold-out concerts during Jazz Fest in New Orleans have featured sit-ins by everyone from Lenny Kravitz and Steve Winwood (with whom Karl has recorded and toured) to avant garde luminaries. Not to mention Karl’s stint in The Rolling Stones, when he replaced the great Bobby Keys as Saxophonist in 2014. Touring the country with the Allman Brothers, My Morning Jacket, D'Angelo, The Roots, Public Enemy, Bob Weir of The Grateful Dead, Parliament Funkadelic, Slightly Stoopid, Widespread Panic, very few concert goers have been untouched by The Tiny Universe Live. In addition to KDTU, Karl Denson AKA “Diesel” is a founding member of the seminal groove act The Greyboy Allstars. Opening set by Bluesman Uncle Scotchy. This FREE show is Produced by The Rhythm Foundation for the City of Hollywood. RSVP for the free event at: www.eventbrite.com/e/karl-densons-tiny-universe-at-hollywood-artspark-experience-tickets-538270239777 Please remember, ArtsPark at Young Circle is plastic and foam Free. Single-use plastics like water bottles and plastic bags are not allowed. Grow With Us - Key Roles Available Investment is underway and we are growing in the City of Hollywood! We need talented people to exceed expectations and meet the demand in our expanding Building Division. Quality candidates should apply for these available key roles: • Chief Structural Inspector • Electrical Plans Examiner (Full-Time) • Plumbing Inspector (Full-Time) • Structural Inspector (Full-Time) • Structural Plans Examiner (Full-Time) • Structural Plans Examiner (Part-Time) Those dedicated to delivering high-quality services to residents and our business community should immediately apply. We are paying more, have a $3,000 hiring bonus and are offering the best benefits than anyone else in South Florida to attract the best people to join our team. Apply today, interview this week! To search each position with the keyword search, please visit the: City’s Career Pages Federal Funds Available For Flood Victims In Broward County Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the recent flood can apply for assistance at: www.DisasterAssistance.gov Or by calling: 1 (800) 621-FEMA Or 1 (800) 621-3362. For additional information, please visit: www.hollywoodfl.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1284 < Previous News Next News >

What's Trending In Travel In 2026 By Feature Impact Mar 16, 2026 After Years Of Fast-Paced Itineraries And Social Media-Inspired Vacations, Travelers Are Looking To Slow Down In 2026, Instead Focusing On More Personal, Immersive Experiences. That's not to say Americans will be looking to travel any less - just more intentionally. Despite economic, political and cultural shifts, travel shows no signs of slowing down this year. In fact, according to a survey conducted on behalf of ALG Vacations, 100% of respondents plan to take a vacation in the next year, with 97% likely to travel for leisure in the next 6 months despite those concerns. Even with tightened budgets, 95% of those surveyed would still travel - even if it meant scaling back. To help travelers zero in on what they're looking to experience in 2026, working with a travel advisor when starting to plan that annual getaway can make the process easier. Additional survey data shows 7 in 10 travelers are turning to professionals to plan their next trips with the younger generations leading the way; 83% of Gen Z and 78% of Millennials are likely to turn to a travel advisor for help with planning and booking. "What's really interesting is that travel advisors are resonating with a new wave of travelers," said ALG Vacations' Travel Advisor Champion Carson Kressley, the Renowned Style Expert and World Traveler best known for his role on "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" and his current Emmy Award-winning judge role on "RuPaul's Drag Race." "They want help uncovering hidden-gem destinations and great-value packages and a new generation of advisors is meeting them exactly where they are." In addition to booking your next excursion with the assistance of a travel advisor, consider these trends Kressley identified for the year ahead. Space and Privacy In 2026, spaciousness is an expression of luxury - private villas, low-density boutique resorts and nature-framed hideaways where quiet feels curated and beauty isn't shared with the masses. As travelers prioritize serenity over scene, this trend reflects an emotional need for clarity as they look for time to reset and environments that support genuine presence. Immersion in Culture and Hyper-Local Travelers desire authentic experiences shaped by local chefs, artisans and storytellers who bring a destination's heritage to life. It's no longer about observing culture from a distance; it's about actively participating in it with the destination's native citizens, reflecting a desire for meaning and perspective. Longer, More Intentional Vacations Instead of rushing through multiple destinations, travelers are embracing itineraries that allow them to breathe through longer stays and experiences that unfold naturally. From a lingering lunch to an unstructured afternoon, this shift toward savoring prioritizes depth and connection. Transformational Wellness As wellness continues to evolve into deeply personal territory, travelers seek experiences that restore mind, body and perspective such as sunrise rituals, nature-led healing, cultural wellness traditions and programs designed for renewal. Screen-Inspired Destinations Pop culture continues to influence travel, but today's travelers seek more than filming locations. In 2026, they're searching for dramatic landscapes, atmospheric architecture, richly layered cultures and experiences that evoke emotion and capture the feeling of their favorite cinematic worlds. This evolution of set-jetting is about stepping into a story rather than tracing its steps. Shared Multi-Generational Moments Multi-generational travel is shifting toward more purpose-driven experiences - milestone celebrations, cultural reconnection trips and meaningful moments together. The emphasis is on togetherness, personalization and experiences that feel like legacy. To learn more and start booking your next adventure, visit: www.traveladvisorsgetyouthere.com . Photos courtesy of Shutterstock Source: ALG Vacations Previous Next

Celebrating Musical Nostalgia: Friday Night Sound Waves Returns With Fan-Favorite Bands April 18, 2024 Share The LOOP is bringing back some of their fans’ favorite bands who made their first appearances at Friday Night Sound Waves from 2016 to 2021. Save the dates and take a journey down memory lane at the free and family-friendly concert series every Friday through May 17th, 2024, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Presented by the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Beach Business Improvement District, Friday Night Sound Waves welcomes locals and visitors, the young and the young at heart, to enjoy some of South Florida’s best musical talents, performing an eclectic range of genres ranging from Reggae, Funk, Afro-Cuban, Top 40, Motown and R&B. The six-week nostalgic musical journey includes: (2017) Valerie Tyson Band – May 17th (2018) Rogue Theory – April 19th (2019) Sonlokos – May 3rd (2020) Private Stock Band – April 26th (2021) VAM BAND – May 10th Attendees are invited to come early to enjoy various pre-concert games on the main lawn starting at 5:00 p.m., along with local artisan vendors and a rotation of food and drink vendors to peruse during and after the show. The lineup for the 2024 edition of Friday Night Sound Waves reads like a musical time capsule, featuring a diverse array of genres and talents that have graced the stage over the years. Friday, April 19 – Rogue Theory, Indie Funk/Rock Dive into the vibrant soundscape of Rogue Theory, a dynamic band hailing from the Sunshine State. Rogue Theory is on a musical journey leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and ears of music lovers across the nation. Their ever-evolving, eclectic fusion of Indie Funk-Rock is often called refreshing – a playful and nostalgic tapestry woven from the finest threads of various musical genres – a truly original soulful experience. Friday, April 26th – Private Stock, Top 40 80's Dance Party Private Stock Band is the most sought-after entertainment in the event industry. Being together for over 20 years contributes to the band’s amazing chemistry that shines through with every high-energy performance. Voted the #1 Party Band in Florida, Private Stock is the only band in the event industry that features Top 10 Hit Recording artists and stars from the hit show, “Legends.” Private Stock's musicians are all multi-talented and versatile, with an extensive song list consisting of Top 40, the 50’s & 60’s, Rock & Roll, Motown, Soul, 70’s Disco, Classic Rock, 80’s, 90’s, Latin and Country. Friday, May 3rd – SonLokos, Afro-Cuban, Fusion SonLokos was born in the City of Miami in 2012. Its music fuses Son, Afro-Cuban Music, Timba and traditional Cuban rhythms with Hip-Hop, Electronic Music, Reggae and Rap. SonLokos has a fresh and innovative sound that ranges between Son and Descarga to a very explosive danceable rhythm that keeps people on their feet. Their repertoire includes classic covers of Cuban music as well as original compositions. Friday, May 10th – VAM Band, Top 40 VAM Band is a Funk Tribute Dance Band performing Pop, Top 40, Soul, R&B, Motown, Latin, Reggae and more. Friday, May 17th – Valerie Tyson, Motown Valerie Tyson is a soulful and electrifying band that performs classic and modern music specializing in playing today’s Top 40, Jazz, Classic Rock, R&B and Reggae. Each member of the band brings a combination of vocal and instrumental skills and experience. Beyond the stellar lineup of bands, Friday Night Sound Waves offers a complete sensory experience for attendees of all ages. Arrive early to enjoy pre-concert games on the main lawn, browse local artisan vendors, and sample delectable fare from a rotating selection of food and drink vendors. With activities designed to engage the community and foster a sense of belonging, the series embodies the spirit of inclusivity and camaraderie that defines Fort Lauderdale's cultural landscape. When & Where Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and be prepared for an unforgettable musical journey through time. Friday Night Sound Waves will be held every Friday through May 17th, 2024, 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. at Las Olas Oceanside Park: 3000 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316. The most convenient place to park is the Las Olas Beach Parking Garage, where the PayByPhone payment option can be used, and parking can be extended from anywhere using the mobile PayByPhone APP. The events are free and open to the public. The LOOP A cornerstone of activity, The LOOP (Las Olas Oceanside Park) is the central hub of the $65 Million four-park system at the heart of Fort Lauderdale Beach. The public greenspaces, including the Intracoastal Promenade, Las Olas Beach Garage Sunset Terrace, and DC Alexander Park, aim to provide infinite experiences for everyone under the sun and year-round activity in Fort Lauderdale’s oceanfront backyard. Through its four pillars, “FAME,” The LOOP offers a variety of special events, activities, and unique local experiences for all, including free concerts, holiday happenings, farmer’s markets, community workouts, and more. For more information, visit: https://theloopflb.com - Or contact: info@theloopflb.com and for information about the band lineup, please visit: www.FridayNightSoundWaves.com Can't wait to see you there! < Previous News Next News >

Become A Part Of The Aventura Zumba Community May 15, 2024 Share The City of Aventura started offering Complimentary Zumba® Classes to Aventura residents of all ages. Participants must register prior to attending the class, and be ready to provide valid proof of Aventura residency to access the park on the day of class. Participants will spend their morning being in a positive mood, having fun, and enjoying aerobic movement and Latin dance with the help of a certified instructor. During a Zumba® Class, you'll follow choreography with footwork that works your leg muscles, arm movements that tone your arm muscles and squats that can tighten your glute and core muscles. Whether you're new to the dance fitness world or have been taking different types of dance exercise classes for a while, you'll experience the post-workout feel from a Zumba® Class the next day, throughout your entire body. No matter your fitness goals, whether they're losing weight, toning muscles or maintaining a healthy lifestyle, a full-body workout can contribute to all of these goals and more. These workouts are versatile, and you can easily adapt them to your preferences and workout style. Zumba® Classes are a popular full-body workout because of the atmosphere of the class, and participants don't need any equipment to enjoy it — all you need is yourself and enough space to dance. According to: http://Zumba.com these are the ten main benefits of Zumba®: 1. Complete a Full-Body Workout Many exercise classes or types of workouts focus on certain parts of your body. Some workouts target your legs, back, arms, core and other areas of your body, but others provide a full-body workout that can help engage multiple muscles in your body. Zumba® is one of the exercise programs that can provide a full-body workout and a dance class. 2. Improve Your Coordination Dancing requires some level of coordination to follow choreography and piece together the moves. Zumba® will help those looking to improve their coordination and give them a safe space to practice their dancing abilities. Similar to how you can train your Lungs to work harder and your muscles to become stronger, you can train your body to become more coordinated through repetition. Zumba® is one of the best classes to work on improving your coordination. Including regular exercise into your routine, like Zumba® Classes, can help you maintain your physical abilities and coordination as you get older and prevent injuries from falls. 3. Enjoy Aerobic Exercise Benefits Zumba® is an upbeat and lively dance fitness class that will make you sweat with a smile on your face — you'll be having so much fun that you'll almost forget you're accomplishing an intense cardio-style workout. Implementing aerobic exercise in your workout schedule is an essential part of improving your overall health. This type of exercise describes any high or low-intensity cardio workout. It'll increase your heart rate and the amount of oxygen your body is using during your workout, helping you exercise your heart and lungs, which positively impacts your cardiovascular system. Specifically, aerobic exercise can improve your heart health by lowering your Blood Pressure, lowering your resting heart rate and reducing your chances of Heart Disease. Completing an aerobic workout is also beneficial for your Lungs. It trains your lungs to work more efficiently as you breathe hard and absorb more oxygen. Even parts of the body like the skin can benefit from Zumba® and other forms of aerobic exercise. When you raise your Heart Rate and enhance Blood Circulation, your body can deliver Oxygen and other nutrients to your skin, which helps make it healthier. 4. Assist Your Metabolism Zumba® Classes, and any other type of cardio workout, may help give your metabolism a boost. If you're someone looking to lose weight or improve your overall health, you may be curious about finding ways to improve your body's metabolic rate. A person's metabolism will vary depending on various factors and may change as they age. Keep in mind that you can't really "increase" your metabolism — and trying to do so won't help you lose weight. However, you can assist your metabolism by burning more calories than you take in, and Zumba® is a wonderful way to do just that. All levels of Zumba® can impact your metabolism. 5. Torch Calories A top benefit that encourages many people to work out is the number of calories they burn. Zumba® Classes are a great workout if you have a weight loss goal and want to burn a lot of calories. Zumba®, like other aerobic workouts, requires plenty of energy to keep up with all the choreography and upbeat rhythms. Zumba® is all about movement. During a class, you'll shake your hips, move your feet, sway your arms and complete other types of dance moves that will keep your body moving. The tempo changes and intensity variation throughout the class make Zumba® one of the best workout choices to maximize fat burning and torch calories. 6. Boost Your Mood Whether it's been a rough day, you're stressed or you just need a morning pick-me-up, Zumba® is the perfect mood booster. Zumba® can benefit many aspects of Mental Health. The combination of exercise and dance causes your brain to release Endorphins like Serotonin, making you happier. In general, exercise can also help alleviate any built-up Stress, anger or Anxiety that needs an outlet to escape. 7. Meet Other Zumba® Lovers Zumba® offers plenty of social benefits that can enhance your overall health. Having friends who like the same things you do is a big part of friendship. A fun aspect of participating in local Zumba® Classes is socializing with other people and creating new friendships. Zumba® is a social group fitness class, especially if you take classes regularly at your local fitness center, dance studio or other location. Zumba® Classes are a great way to make new friends if you spend a lot of time at work, are busy with kids or have other obligations in your life that hinder your time to socialize with others. 8. Exercise at Home While some people love to work out at the gym, others like to exercise from the comfort of their homes. A major perk of Zumba® Classes is you can participate almost anywhere — virtual Zumba® Classes are a wonderful option for people who want to stay home and work out or don't have time to make it to the gym. Zumba® Workouts are possible at home or at any location as long as you have enough space to move around and an internet connection. 10. Feel Like You're Part of a Community One of the best parts about Zumba® is its inclusivity to all levels of fitness. Zumba® Classes are open and available to those of nearly all abilities. No matter your age or skill level, you can find a class that works perfectly for your health goals. Zumba® Classes are a safe space for all fitness levels, and the instructors are ready to welcome you into their motivating and supportive community. Classes are held on Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Veterans Park: 18375 Northeast 31st Avenue, Aventura, Florida 33180. Please plan to be in class for approximately one hour. Students must bring their own refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. So join your friends and neighbors in your community and register for the next class at: https://secure.rec1.com/FL/aventura-fl/catalog For more information, call: (305) 466-0183. < Previous News Next News >

Tackle Wellness Goals By Adding A Touch Of Green - Better-For-You Recipes Inspired By Savory Salad Kits Wed Jan 08 2025 19:45:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood: Alchemy: Pigments of Probability and Night Swimming Exhibitions Are Open June 21, 2024 Share The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is hosting the opening reception for two exhibitions, Diana Eusebio’s Alchemy: Pigments of Probability, and Carmen Smith’s Night Swimming, on Thursday, June 20 from 5pm to 8pm. The exhibitions will run concurrently with the exhibitions Animals and Faux Ecologies + Augmented Visions of the Nature-verse, currently on view, through August 18, 2024. Admission for the opening reception is $7, and Free for Art and Culture Center members. The Art and Culture Center galleries are open Tuesday-Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturday-Sunday from Noon to 4pm and are located at 1650 Harrison Street in Hollywood. Alchemy: Pigments of Probability, is a culmination of years of extensive research on the indigenous art of alchemizing plants and natural materials into color. In this specific body of work, she features seven different natural materials native to Miami, Peru, and the Dominican Republic, such as Cochineal, Avocados, Bija (Annatto), Spanish Moss, Indigo, Jagua, and Palo de Campeche (Logwood), often sourcing them directly from the landscape. The imagery in the works is digitally printed onto fabric and combine both archival photos of her past experiences with family and landscape, and imagined photos created with AI to reconstruct images of her family’s history in the Dominican Republic and Peru. Combining traditional practices and modern technologies, Diana explores collective memory processes, constructing familiar archives and textile traditions reflective of her ancestral past and family’s future legacy. The multi-layered process of creating these compelling new pieces is reflective of the complexities of recovering and recording Indigenous and Afro-Caribbean histories. Eusebio is a Peruvian-Dominican multidisciplinary artist whose practice is centered on color and its cultural significance. Eusebio’s process is informed by research of naturally dyed textiles from Indigenous Latin American and Afro-Caribbean traditions, recognizing their connection to nature and their role as carriers of ancestral wisdom. Eusebio's fusion of ancestral and modern techniques, including dyeing and photography, contributes to contemporary cultural preservation and celebrates the rich heritage and Pre-Columbian knowledge embedded within these communities. Her work is a powerful testament to the enduring cultural tapestry of these regions. The exhibition is the eighth in our Oolite Collaborations series with Oolite Arts. Smith explores how the built environment affects emotional and psychological states. Her exhibition, Night Swimming, evokes a magical, otherworldly playground of glowing pools and colorful buildings. Her painterly compositions are kept simple, while her use of color is exaggerated to emphasize a liminal, dreamlike space. Smith designs her paintings from memories and tropical urban architecture. Her use of familiar settings invites viewers to explore the nostalgic scenery, while her use of perspective positions them as if they are part of the scene. Integrating movements such as realism, expressionism, color field, and abstraction, Smith unites an array of formal aspects in a single dreamlike space. An exaggeratedly bright, high-contrast color palette explores color as a form of leisure, a more nuanced consideration of how place affects experience, memory, and identity. Current Exhibitions ANIMALS is an all-encompassing, interactive exhibition that looks at the animals around us and how human interaction plays a role in endangerment and survival. From domestic household pets to wild invasive or endangered species, animals are presented through various methods including painting, sculpture, mixed media, and video. This extensively curated collection seeks to unravel the mysteries behind these connections and convey the importance of the role of animals in our environment. [dNASAb] is an innovative sculptor of ecosystems, infusing discarded materials and consumer electronics while pioneering new technologies through extended, augmented realities. His new project, Faux Ecologies + Augmented Visions of the Nature-verse, blends environmental conservation, art, and technology to engage viewers as co-creators and advocates for sustainability. The artist seeks to challenge prevailing notions of loss, decay, e-waste, and environmental degradation. He uses upcycled ocean debris and reclaimed plastics, transforming them into kinetic sculptures inspired by underwater life, highlighting the need to protect marine ecosystems from plastic pollution. He then uses Neural Radiance Field (NeRF) scans to capture the sculptures in natural environments, creating precise 3D models. These models enable an Augmented Reality (AR) experience that merges physical and virtual elements during the exhibition, offering an immersive and interactive journey for viewers. 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; and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. They welcome donations from all members of the community who wish to support our work. For more information visit: www.artandculturecenter.org < Previous News Next News >