Recognizing Holiday Hazards: 5 Seasonal Safety Tips For Pet Owners (Family Features) December 1, 2022 Share The holiday season presents opportunities for celebrating with loved ones, for many families, that includes their dogs and cats. However, holiday foods and decorations can pose health risks for pets and the hustle and bustle may be overwhelming. To help keep your pet safe amid the jolly chaos, consider these potential hazards from the experts at VCA Animal Hospitals, which has more than 1,000 locations across North America that cared for more than 4.5 million pets last year. Decorations Decorations are part of almost every holiday celebration but making some pet-proofed choices can make your home safe for four-legged guests as well. If you put up a tree (live or artificial), ensure it's set up securely and use shatter-proof ornaments, ideally hung above tail height and out of paws' reach. If you have kittens less than 1 year old in your home, they sometimes like to climb up the tree trunk to the top, so extra care may be needed. Hang smaller ornaments toward the top of the tree to reduce potential choking hazards and avoid salt dough ornaments, which may look like a snack to pets but can cause electrolyte problems, tinsel as it can become lodged in a pet's gut and cause issues. Additionally, consider battery-operated candles instead of real ones, which can be easily knocked over by curious pets and burn them or lead to more serious fire risks. Dangling cords from seasonal decor can also appeal to pets, if chewed while plugged in could result in electrical shock or burns to the tongue, so secure them out of sight and unplug them when not in use. Food With the holidays comes a delicious variety of baked goods, Chocolate confections and other rich foods. However, some of those seasonal goodies can present problems for pets. For example, Chocolate and Cocoa contain Theobromine, a chemical similar to Caffeine that's highly toxic to both dogs and cats. Ingestion in small amounts can cause vomiting and Diarrhea, but large amounts can cause Seizures and Heart Arrhythmias. Other traditional holiday mainstays such as fruitcakes, breads and cookies that contain grapes, raisins or currants can cause Kidney Failure in dogs. Sugarless Gums and Candies may contain Xylitol, a natural sweetener, which can cause serious conditions like dangerously low Blood Sugar and Liver Failure in dogs. Leftover fatty meat scraps can produce severe inflammation of the Pancreas (Pancreatitis), leading to abdominal pain, vomiting and bloody diarrhea. Plants Although live trees are non-toxic, their needles do not digest well and their water may contain Bacteria, Mold or Fertilizer that should not be ingested. Additionally, Poinsettias, which often have a bad reputation among pet owners, can cause upset stomachs if the leaves are ingested though it's typically milder than the symptoms associated with Holly, Mistletoe and Amaryllis. Daffodils, Lilies and Narcissi are also toxic to pets. Guests An increase in visitors, ringing of the doorbell and extra excitement of the holiday season can be stressful for pets. Try to keep your four-legged friend's feeding and exercise schedule as regular as possible, make time for additional stress-relieving playtime and snuggles. To help avoid overstimulation, it may be best to keep your pets in their own crates or a quiet room with food, water and comfortable bedding while you have company. If you need additional assistance, consult with your Veterinarian. Travel Holiday travel with your four-legged family members requires some extra packing and precautions. If traveling by car, make sure your pet is safely restrained using a secure harness or carrier and placed away from any airbags. Make sure pets are Microchipped and their Registration is up to date in case you become separated. Never leave pets alone in a vehicle or transport them in the bed of a truck. Also be sure you have updated Health Certificates from your Veterinarian, if required by any states you will visit or pass through and pack copies of Medical Records, First Aid Supplies, food and Medications, leashes, collars and favorite toys. For more tips to make the holidays safe for pets, visit: www.vcahospitals.com < Previous News Next News >

7 Of The Nation's Top Independent BBQ Stores Are In Florida South Florida Sun Times Aug 13, 2026 Barbecue Season May Look Like A Backyard Ritual, But It Is Also Big Business. From grills and smokers to sauces, rubs, meat, charcoal, pellets, coolers, patio furniture, and grocery baskets, America’s summer cookout economy reaches deep into Wall Street. Publicly traded companies such as Traeger, McCormick, Kraft Heinz, Tyson Foods, Hormel, Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Costco all have a stake in how Americans spend when the weather warms up and the tongs come out. But while national brands dominate much of the category, barbecue culture itself is still often shaped locally. Across the country, independent BBQ stores, butcher shops, smokehouse suppliers, grill dealers, rub makers, and sauce specialists continue to play an outsized role in how Americans cook, shop, and gather. These are the places people go when they want sharper advice, better ingredients, specialist equipment, local flavor, and a more personal experience than they can get from a national chain. MarketBeat, a financial media company, wanted to explore the competition between Main Street barbecue culture and Wall Street’s summer grilling economy. The company surveyed 3,009 consumers, asking them to identify the best independent BBQ stores across the country. The top 10 were as follows: #1. All Things Barbecue, Wichita, Kansas It's rare for a local shop to have this kind of broader name recognition, but All Things Barbecue in Wichita's Delano district has built a national following thanks to Chef Tom's YouTube channel, and the brick-and-mortar shop itself is just as serious, stocked deep with Yoder grills, smokers, rubs, and sauces. A destination stop for serious barbecue fans passing through Kansas. #2. Jeff's Backyard, San Antonio, Texas Jeff's Backyard in San Antonio is a premier independent grill dealer and also offers propane refills, a small but genuinely handy service for regular grillers. Not having to track down a propane swap separately saves a real trip. A practical, full-service stop for San Antonio backyard cooks. #3. BBQ Outfitters, Austin, Texas A familiar name across a big stretch of central Texas, BBQ Outfitters has grown into a true Texas regional retailer with locations in both Austin and San Antonio, stocking Kamado Joe, Yoder, and pellet smokers throughout. A dependable choice no matter which side of I-35 you're on. #4. Chuds Provisions, Manchaca (Austin), Texas Chuds Provisions near Austin operates by appointment, giving shoppers a more personal, focused look at their Chud Box smokers and pits without the distraction of a crowded showroom floor. That appointment-only setup means you get real one-on-one attention rather than browsing on your own and guessing. A worthwhile call ahead for Austin-area smoker enthusiasts who want it done right. #5. Original Grills – Outdoor Kitchen & Grill Store, Durham, North Carolina A nice, unexpected touch for cooks who care about the whole prep-to-plate experience, not just the grill itself, Original Grills in Durham stocks Recteq and Coyote grills, along with full outdoor kitchens and a solid knife selection that most grill shops wouldn't think to carry. A well-rounded stop for the Durham area's serious cooks who like a complete setup. #6. BBQ Pits by Klose, Houston, Texas BBQ Pits by Klose has earned a renowned reputation in Houston for its custom offset smokers and pits, the kind of equipment that serious pitmasters seek out by name. That level of craftsmanship doesn't happen by accident. A legendary stop for anyone serious about true offset smoking in Texas. #7. The Grill Store by Prestige, Frisco, Texas The staff can really walk you through every option on the floor at The Grill Store by Prestige in Frisco, which focuses on premium backyard entertaining, pairing luxury grills and smokers with elite patio design. A reliable stop for the northern Dallas suburbs looking for genuine specialty expertise. #8. Oklahoma BBQ Supply, Tulsa, Oklahoma Oklahoma BBQ Supply offers a comprehensive selection of grills, smokers, sauces, and rubs right in the heart of the city. That extensive inventory gives shoppers a built-in sense of credibility before they even walk through the door. A reliable Tulsa stop for stocking up on the essentials. #9. The Kansas City BBQ Store, Olathe, Kansas The Kansas City BBQ Store in Olathe stocks grills, smokers, rubs, sauces, and even meat, making it a true one-stop shop for a full cookout. Kansas City takes its barbecue seriously, and this shop reflects that with a deep, well-curated selection. A reliable pick for anybody in the KC metro looking to stock up properly. #10. Atlanta Grill Company, Roswell, Georgia A one-stop shop for folks building out their whole outdoor cooking arsenal, Atlanta Grill Company has stayed an independently owned operation in Roswell, rounding out its Yoder smoker lineup with knives, pizza ovens, and all the accessories a serious cook could want. A trusted Atlanta-area name for grill enthusiasts. 7 of the nation's top independent BBQ stores are in Florida: #13. Just Grillin Outdoor Living, Tampa Just Grillin Outdoor Living has stayed a family-run operation in Tampa, stocking heavyweight brands like Weber and Yoder alongside pellet grills and broader outdoor living gear. The family touch shows in the kind of attentive service that makes picking the right grill less overwhelming. A trusted Tampa name for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. #22. G6 Grills Outdoor Kitchen, Orlando Custom is the operative word at G6 Grills Outdoor Kitchen in Orlando, which specializes in outdoor kitchens and grills built to match exactly what a homeowner has in mind. That kind of custom build approach takes the guesswork out of matching grill to layout. A strong choice for Florida homeowners ready to commit to a serious backyard cooking space. #46. The Outdoor Kitchen Store, Tampa The Outdoor Kitchen Store in Tampa offers a wide selection of rigs ranging from high-end built-in gas lines to traditional ceramic kamado cookers, but the real draw is how the shop frames everything around the full outdoor kitchen rather than just one appliance. It's a smart approach for homeowners who are tired of piecing together a backyard setup one purchase at a time. A go-to for Florida shoppers thinking bigger than a single grill. #64. Brownsville Grills, Miami Gardens Brownsville Grills builds its grills from the ground up right there in Miami Gardens, putting it firmly in the custom-maker camp rather than the retail-reseller crowd. That hands-on, made-to-order approach appeals to folks who want something built specifically for their backyard. A solid option for anyone after a truly custom piece of cooking equipment. #66. Calidad Grills, St. Augustine (Jacksonville) Calidad Grills keeps a broad selection of grills and smokers on hand near St. Augustine, giving shoppers plenty of room to compare before committing. It's the kind of shop where browsing actually pays off, since the variety on the floor covers a lot of different cooking styles. A solid stop for the historic coast's backyard cooks. #73. Premier Gas and Grills, Green Cove Springs (Jacksonville) Whether you're after a quick grill upgrade or a full backyard overhaul, Premier Gas and Grills near Jacksonville covers a whole lot of ground, stocking everything from smokers and rubs. Operating alongside its unique in-house market, Roosters General Store, this local showroom is a dependable name for the Jacksonville area's grilling crowd looking to score both top-tier rigs and locally sourced farm meats in a single stop. #102. Choly's Grill, North Miami A taste of Argentina lands in North Miami at Choly's Grill, specializing in parrillas, asadores, and quebracho wood that you simply won't find at the typical American grill shop. It's a refreshing change of pace for anyone who's curious about South American grilling traditions. A genuinely unique find in the Miami grill scene. Infographic showing national rankings The survey also found that many people believe barbecue season has become heavily commercialized. When asked which part of BBQ season feels most over-commercialized, the top answer was expensive grills and smokers, chosen by 27% of respondents. Fourth of July promotions followed closely behind at 22%, while 15% pointed to premium meat prices. Other responses included: • Branded sauces and rubs: 12% • Patio furniture and outdoor kitchens: 9% • Grill accessories and gadgets: 5% • Grocery store BBQ displays: 5% • Social media BBQ content: 4% Despite the rise of national retailers and big-name food brands, Floridians still see barbecue as something rooted in home, family, and local culture. Asked what is most responsible for keeping American BBQ culture alive, 39% said family traditions, making it the clear top answer. Local BBQ restaurants came next at 19%. By comparison, big-box retailers barely registered, with just 2% of respondents saying they are most responsible for keeping barbecue culture alive. The full breakdown was: • Family traditions: 39% • Local BBQ restaurants: 19% • Independent BBQ stores: 9% • Local butcher shops: 9% • Social media influencers: 7% • Small sauce and rub makers: 5% • Supermarkets: 5% • National food brands: 5% • Big-box retailers: 2% Americans also appear to have a strong appetite for local flavor. Nearly two-thirds of respondents said they would rather buy sauces, rubs, or seasonings from a small local maker than a national brand. That preference may reflect a wider frustration with how commercial barbecue has become. Overall, 62% of respondents said they think barbecue has become too dominated by big brands and national retailers. When asked which BBQ product is most worth paying extra for from a local specialist, meat was the runaway winner, selected by 43% of respondents. Rubs or seasonings came second at 18%, followed by sauces at 15%. Respondents said the BBQ products most worth paying extra for from a local specialist were: • Meat: 43% • Rubs or seasonings: 18% • Sauces: 15% • A grill or smoker: 10% • Grill accessories: 6% • Charcoal, wood, or pellets: 6% • Advice or repairs: 1% But there is one part of the cookout where Floridians are clearly feeling the pinch: the meat aisle. Steak was named the BBQ item that has become too expensive to justify buying regularly, chosen by 42% of respondents. Brisket followed at 25%, while 12% pointed to ribs. • Steak: 42% • Brisket: 25% • Ribs: 12% • Burgers: 7% • Chicken wings: 5% • Charcoal or pellets: 3% • Sausages: 2% • Sauces and rubs: 2% And while barbecue purists may argue otherwise, Americans are not above a shortcut. Store-bought sauce was the most widely accepted BBQ shortcut, chosen by 25% of respondents. Disposable plates and cutlery came next at 19%, followed by using a gas grill instead of charcoal at 17%. • Store-bought sauce: 25% • Disposable plates and cutlery: 19% • Gas grill instead of charcoal: 17% • Pre-made sides: 15% • Frozen burgers: 14% • Buying pre-marinated meat: 10% Matt Paulson, Founder of MarketBeat, said: “Barbecue season is a perfect example of where Main Street and Wall Street meet. Public companies have a huge stake in how Americans spend on food, grills, groceries, and outdoor entertaining, but the culture itself is still deeply local. Independent stores, butcher shops, sauce makers, and BBQ specialists are often the places that keep the personality of barbecue alive. That local expertise is something big brands can sell around, but they cannot easily replace. For more information, please visit: https://www.marketbeat.com/articles/top-135-best-locally-owned-bbq-supply-stores-in-the-us-according-to-survey/ Previous Next

Former Cashier Characterizes Love-Hate Relationship With Retail Work Thu Mar 14 2024 16:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Medicaid Buy Down: Learn How To Legally Protect Your Assets From Confiscation By Tracy Renee Lee August 5, 2021 Share If you or an aging parent is entering long-term care, you are allowed to buy down your liquid resources Last week, I had a client whose mother had passed away in a nursing home, without insurance to help cover the expenses of her burial needs. His mother had only been in the nursing home for a few months. Upon discussion, my client thought his mother might have funds in her bank account. In exploration for funding, he asked for our assistance and so, we sent an inquiry to the bank on his behalf. Prior to entering the nursing home, his mother had had substantial funding in her account. Regrettably, she nor her son consulted an end-of-life financial counselor or funeral practitioner prior to her entrance into the nursing facility. If either had, her funeral expenses would have been covered and he would not have had to go to his bank and refinance both of his vehicles, in order to afford to bury her. During the 1970's, I was a schoolgirl. I lived at home with my parents and my siblings, my father was self-employed. As a self-employed general contractor in the 1970’s, my father lamented over the difficulties of a weak economy that were imposed upon him. Our country suffered tremendously during those days with outrageous interest rates, ridiculous gas shortages and the tragic Vietnam War Fallout. Through it all, my father was strong and fearless. He kept food on the table and money in the pockets of his employees by adhering to the following adages. To this day, my favorite two pearls of wisdom from my dad are, “Knowledge is Power” (Francis Bacon, 1597) and “Fortune Favors the Prepared Mind.” (Luis Pasteur, 1854) Now that I am self-employed and must put food on the table and money in the pockets of my employees, both of these statements, do ring true in my heart on a daily basis. Unfortunately, my client last week did not grow up with a self-employed father from the 1970’s economic nightmare. He was, therefore, unprepared for the expenses that he faced, upon the death of his mother. Knowledge is Power is a true statement. Knowledge always gives power in any situation or subject, in which, one finds oneself. The knowledge to invest, shelter, earn rather than borrow and leverage one’s assets, is power indeed. In the situation that my client was in, knowledge of end-of-life expenses and how to prepare for them would most certainly have helped him, be more financially, protected. Fortune Favors the Prepared Mind, this would have preserved his payment-free status and allowed him greater comfort, in our country’s current inflationary, economic woes. In order to better protect your assets, might I suggest that you seek out an end-of-life financial counselor? Seeking such advice, may save your family home, family heirlooms, family fortunes and any inheritance. None of us wants to see our parents, nor ourselves, in a nursing home; however, the reality of such an occurrence, is not that, farfetched. Statistically, we would all be better off understanding long-term care, its expenses and its funding resources. Primarily, we should understand that at-need long-term care is neither affordable, nor free. One should prepare for such expenses at an early age by investments or insurance. Medicaid may seem as though it is free, however, those expenses are the debt of the receiver, as such, the receiver’s assets, both liquids and physical tangibles, they are subject to seizures, by the government. Fortunately, the government has built in, an allowance for certain expenses and protections of certain assets. One must, however, protect and shelter those assets, prior to entering or qualifying for Medicaid. For most assets, Medicaid has a five-year look-back period. With this in mind, you can understand why one must prepare, rather than procrastinate, organize and shelter, their finances. One of Medicaid’s allowances for those who find that they have extended their planning to the last moment, is the Medicaid Buy-Down Program. If you or an aging parent, is entering long-term care, you are allowed to Buy Down your liquid resources. In other words, you are allowed to shelter a respectable amount of your funds into certain expenses. Funds may be spent to repair a home, a vehicle or other necessities, in life. One of those necessities, which became of utmost importance to my client last week, was the expense of his mother’s funeral. If he had just participated in the Buy-Down Allowance three weeks prior, his mother’s funeral would have been prepaid with her own funds. With significant funds in her bank account, she could have visited the funeral home and had pre-funded her funeral expenses. At that point, those funds would have been secured and would have rested there, until the time of her death. If my client and his mother had participated in this program, he would have had the resources necessary, to bury her without, having to borrow the funds, at the time of her death. My client’s situation was expensive, unfortunate and completely avoidable. All he needed to do was follow my father’s admonitions; educate yourself, prepare for, the expected and for, the unexpected. Each state has different qualifications and disqualifications, for long-term care expenses, commonly known as, Medicaid. My father’s advice would be to research your options, before you find yourself in a bind. Medicaid posts its rules, regulations and restrictions on-line, for each state. I suggest you look them up and consult a financial consultant, sooner rather than later. By the way, long-term care, does not only affect the elderly. If you visit a nursing home, you may be surprised to find many people as young as 20 or so, confined there. One never knows when health misfortune might hit them, health can be fleeting and its consequences, can be expensive. For this reason and others, I suggest you prepare for all possibilities in life. My name is Tracy Renee Lee. I am a Certified Grief Counselor (GC-C), Funeral Director (FDIC), published author, syndicated columnist, Podcaster and founder of the “Mikey Joe Children’s Memorial” and Heaven Sent, Corp. I write books, weekly bereavement articles, Podcasts and Grief BRIEFs, related to understanding and coping with grief. I am the American Funeral Director of the Year Runner-Up and recipient of the BBB’s Integrity Award. It is my life's work to comfort the bereaved and help them live on. For additional encouragement, please visit my podcast “Deadline” at: https://open.spotify.com/show/7MHPy4ctu9OLvdp2JzQsAA Or at: https://anchor.fm/tracy874 and follow me on Instagram at: "Deadline_TracyLee." < Previous News Next News >

Aventura's Adult Tennis Clinic: Tuesdays & Thursdays At Founders Park Tennis Courts August 15, 2023 Share Want to practice your Tennis skills? Sign up for our Adult Tennis Clinic today! Are you seeking a dynamic and engaging way to stay active, meet new people and unleash your inner athlete? Look no further than the City of Aventura's Adult Tennis Clinic! Held at the renowned Founders Park Tennis Courts, this exciting program offers a range of skill levels, from beginner to advanced, allowing participants to learn, improve and excel in the sport they love. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, the clinic provides an exceptional opportunity to enhance your skills while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Aventura. So, why should you sign up? Let's explore the numerous reasons that make this Tennis Clinic an absolute must for all Tennis enthusiasts. At the heart of the City of Aventura's Adult Tennis Clinic is high quality instruction. These dedicated professionals bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the program, ensuring that participants receive top-notch instruction. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the fundamentals or an advanced player seeking to refine your technique, the instructor will tailor their guidance to meet your individual needs. Their passion for the sport and commitment to your progress will undoubtedly inspire you to reach new heights. The Clinic caters to players of all skill levels, making it an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. Whether you're stepping onto the court for the first time or aiming to take your game to the next level, you'll find a suitable class. You won't get lost in the crowd, each participant will receive personalized attention and instruction as well. This diversity fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie, where you can learn from fellow players and forge lasting friendships. The City of Aventura's Adult Tennis Clinic follows a structured curriculum designed to enhance your Tennis Skills progressively. From learning the basics of grip and footwork to developing powerful strokes and strategies, each session builds upon the previous one. Your instructor will incorporate a variety of drills, exercises and practice matches to reinforce your understanding and application of the techniques taught. By following this well-rounded curriculum, you'll experience steady improvement and gain the confidence to take your game to the next level. The Founders Park Tennis Courts provide a stunning backdrop for the Clinic. Nestled in the heart of Aventura, these State-Of-The-Art courts offer a picturesque setting that enhances your overall Tennis experience. Surrounded by lush greenery and well-maintained facilities, you'll find yourself fully immersed in the sport and inspired to perform at your best. The evenings' pleasant weather adds an extra touch of enjoyment as you engage in exhilarating matches and friendly competition. The Clinic's schedule is designed to accommodate the busy lives of adult participants. Held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., it offers a convenient time slot that allows you to balance work, family and other commitments. Whether you're a nine-to-five professional, a parent with evening responsibilities, or simply someone with a packed schedule, this timing ensures that you can prioritize your passion for Tennis without compromising your other obligations. Engaging in the City of Aventura's Adult Tennis Clinic goes beyond the court. Tennis is a fantastic way to improve your overall health and well-being. The fast-paced nature of the game helps to build Cardiovascular fitness, agility and endurance. Additionally, the Clinic provides an excellent opportunity to relieve Stress and boost Mental Well-Being. As you immerse yourself in the game, the worries of the day fade away and you find yourself. For more information, contact the City of Aventura Community Services Department at: (305) 466-0183. Or via email at: parksrec@cityofaventura.com . < Previous News Next News >

Holiday Travel Tips - For Those Traveling with a Loved One with Dementia December 5, 2024 Share One of the busiest travel times of the year is approaching, with nearly 80 million Americans are planning to travel during the long holiday period, according to AAA estimates. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is offering tips to help those traveling with a loved one with a Dementia-related illness make their trip as easy and comfortable as possible. “A family trip to visit a loved one, friend, or favorite destination can be a great way to spend the holiday season, including for those affected by Alzheimer’s Disease and other Dementia-related illnesses, including those affected by Dementia.” said Jennifer Reeder, LCSW, AFA’s Director of Educational and Social Services “Whether traveling near or far, there are preparations and adaptations family caregivers can make to help their loved one feel more comfortable and relaxed throughout the trip.” Before The Trip Make sure travel is advisable. Someone in the early stages of Dementia may still enjoy traveling, but as the disease progresses, travel may become too difficult. Factoring in the trip’s duration and/or the stage of the person’s illness, consult with their physician to make sure travel is recommended. Plan according to the person’s abilities. Plan the travel mode and timing of your trip in ways that minimize anxiety and stress. Assess the person’s abilities and needs when making arrangements; if they travel better at a specific time of day, try to schedule plans for that period of time. Preserve the person’s routine. Small or unfamiliar changes can be overwhelming and stressful to someone with Dementia, so to the greatest extent possible, maintain the person’s routine. For example, if they normally eat at a certain time, build that into the itinerary. Stock up before leaving. Bring snacks, water, activities and supportive items (i.e., a blanket, the person’s favorite sweater, a soft pillow). Include an extra and comfortable change of clothing that adapts to climate changes. Take important health and legal-related documentation, a list of current medications, and physician information with you. If Traveling by Mass Transit Know the security procedures. Check in advance with airports/train stations about security screening procedures and arrive early for a less stressful experience. This way, you can familiarize the person ahead of time about what will happen at the checkpoint. This can reduce potential anxiety. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers assistance with the screening process to air travelers with certain medical conditions, including Dementia-related illnesses; contact their TSA Cares Helpline at least 72 hours prior to your flight to learn more. Advise the airline. Let the airline know that you’re traveling with someone who has cognitive impairments and inform them of safety concerns and special needs. If traveling by car build in break time. Take regular breaks on road trips for food, bathroom visits, and rest. Families with questions about traveling with someone who has a Dementia-related illness can speak with a licensed social worker through the AFA Helpline by phone: (866) 232-8484, Text message (646) 586-5283. Or webchat: www.alzfdn.org - The helpline is available seven days a week. Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is a Non-Profit Organization whose mission is to provide support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s Disease and related Dementias nationwide and to fund research for better treatment and a cure. Its services include a National Toll-Free Helpline: (866) 232-8484 staffed entirely by licensed social workers, caregiver support groups, educational programs and publications for caregivers, Dementia-care training for healthcare professionals, the National Memory Screening Program, and more. For more information about AFA, call: (866) 232-8484. Visit: www.alzfdn.org , or connect with them on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, or LinkedIn. AFA holds Charity Navigator’s top 4-star rating. < Previous News Next News >

Glitter And Be Gay! - Experience “The Best Of All Possible Worlds” At New World Center In Miami Beach Mon Dec 30 2024 18:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Gold Coast Jazz Society Opens Their 2021-22 Jazz Concert Series Thu Sep 30 2021 04:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Don’t Start The New Year With A Ticket Wed Jan 05 2022 05:30:17 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Auto Tags of Hallandale: Serving The Community For Almost 40 Years By Austin Torres May 17, 2024 Share Among the many businesses in South Florida, few can say that they have been open for over 30 years. Thanks to the committed and outstanding customer service of Founder, Randy Giunto, Auto Tags of Hallandale is one of those few exceptional businesses that are able to celebrate that milestone. Through their unwavering dedication to delivering customer satisfaction and their “old school” approach to business, Auto Tags of Hallandale can proudly say they have been around since 1987 and are showing no signs of slowing down. Randy, whose family roots in the area can be traced back over a half-century, attended elementary and middle school right here in the city. As a young man, he enjoyed playing many sports like baseball and football at City Park (Bluesten Park) and since then, not much has changed. Randy is a still a major sports fanatic and his outgoing attitude and love of people have continued to make him a pillar of the community. Randy has built a remarkable reputation through his various relationships in the community. His love of people and desire to always give back to the community he grew up in, has garnered him an enormous and varying network of clientele from far and wide. Few can say that they have had the privilege of being in business for as a long as Randy has. “I never left,” says Randy. “To be a part of this community for so long has really meant so much to me and our family. Through the years, even though we were based in Hallandale, we started to pick up new customers from all over.” Randy’s experience assisting customers with a title, tag, renewal or the proper motor vehicle documents has helped establish Auto Tags of Hallandale as a premier business in South Florida. They offer a variety of services that include assistance in registering your vehicle, updating your decal, or replacing it if it has been lost or stolen. If you are a new resident to Florida and the city of Hallandale and need to register your vehicle, then Auto Tags of Hallandale can assist you in this process. Bring in your vehicle's title from the state from which you are moving, proof of Florida insurance and a valid driver's license or passport. For those of you who have lost your plate or decal, you can come in with your valid driver's license and your signature on the replacement form, which can be found via a link on their website: www.autotagsofhallandale.com - and apply for a new one. If your plate or decal was stolen, then you can come with the same form and your license and the team at Auto Tags of Hallandale will also assist you in the application process. However, Auto Tags of Hallandale not only assists customers with tags, titles and renewals for automobiles, but they can also assist you with trucks, boats, motorcycles, mobile homes, trailers and they will even provide notary service. If you have just moved to the state, Welcome to Florida! Bring Randy your vehicle's title from the state from which you are moving, proof of Florida insurance and a valid driver's license or passport and he can take care of everything. Whatever the issue is, you can certainly always count on Randy and the team at Auto Tags of Hallandale to take care of your needs with a warm attention to detail and a commitment, that truly makes them stand out in a way that keeps clients coming back for more. Auto Tags of Hallandale’s client list include businesses such as: Total Appliance, Wind Chill, LLC, Cusano’s Bakery and Lee’s Locksmith & Bicycle Shop. “The only way to stay in business in South Florida, is through building long lasting relationships with our customers. That’s why so many of our customers and clients will tell you that they won’t go anywhere else for their vehicle registration needs,” says Randy. Little has changed at Auto Tags of Hallandale since they opened their doors to customers back in 1987. You can still expect the same warm welcome and authenticity from Randy that has made him such a popular figure in the area. In October of 2022, Auto Tags of Hallandale celebrated their fourth year at their new location in the popular 7th Avenue Village Shops. “What a great location, our loyal customers will find us quickly, but we are also excited about the new business that will walk in daily. We are right behind Marco’s Pizza and next to World Of Hearing,” said Randy. For those of you interested in visiting Auto Tags of Hallandale you can check out their location at 701 West Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Suite 106, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. You can also contact Randy directly at: 954.456.5771. Additionally, you can visit their website at: www.autotagsofhallandale.com < Previous News Next News >

Music Lovers Rejoice: Two South Florida Symphony Premieres March 22, 2024 Share South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO), led by Sebrina María Alfonso, presents an enthralling March Masterworks program that will take audiences on an epic journey through a Russian fairytale to a sensuous Spanish tavern to the streets of 1940’s Times Square all the way up to a modern stirring elegy for 9/11. The region’s foremost symphony will premiere two first-time performances of Bernstein’s “Three Dance Episodes” and modern composer Ellen Taaffe Zwilich’s Clarinet Concerto featuring David Shifrin plus popular favorites Stravinsky’s The Firebird Suite and Ravel’s Boléro at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, March 25th, at New World Center in Miami Beach and Wednesday, March 27th at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale. A pre-concert chat with Dr. Alan Mason illuminating the works and composers will take place 30 minutes prior to the New World Center concert, only. “The composers featured in this concert all paint vivid stories that seem to dance in the mind,” says Maestra Alfonso. “Imagine…in Zwilich’s Clarinet Concerto, we revisit the shock and sorrow of 9/11, which ends on a more hopeful note. In Bernstein’s jazzy ode to New York City, we recall the frivolity of youth while Ravel’s rhythmic Bolero pulsates with sensuality. Then, Stravinsky takes us into a legendary folktale that bursts with magic and life. This concert wonderfully demonstrates how music can provide a welcome escape from our daily lives, and we look forward to our audiences joining for the adventure." Russian Composer Igor Stravinsky’s (1882 - 1971) The Firebird Suite, based on the Russian fairy tales of the Firebird and the blessing and curse it possesses for its owner, was first performed at the Opéra de Paris in 1910 and was an instant success, catapulting him to international fame. The memorable neoclassical work embodying good and evil has been described as a work of genius. Maurice Ravel’s (1875 - 1937) Boléro was commissioned by Dancer Ida Rubinstein in 1922, and was a raving success when it premiered at the Paris Opera in 1928, Instantly recognizable, the popular, Spanish-influenced rhythmic earworm remains one of the most romantic and well-known classical pieces in his canon. Leonard Bernstein (1918 – 1990), America’s Famed Composer and Conductor, takes his concert suite "Three Dance Episodes" from the hit musical On the Town, a wartime romantic comedy about three sailors with 24 hours’ shore leave in New York City. Composed in 1944, this popular, Jazzy piece was Bernstein’s first composition for Broadway. This work is a South Florida Symphony Premiere. Another South Florida Symphony Premiere is Pompano Beach-based Pulitzer Prize-Winning Composer Ellen Taaffe Zwilich’s Clarinet Concerto featuring the equally award-winning talents of Clarinetist David Shifrin (original performer of the piece). Zwilich had already begun her Concerto for Clarinet (commissioned by the Arlene and Milton D. Berkman Philanthropic Fund) by the time the 9/11 World Trade Center Attacks occurred. In his review of the 2003 world premiere performance of the piece in 2003, Peter G. Davis of New York Magazine observed: “Like everyone else, composers were badly shaken by 9/11, and their musical responses are beginning to be heard. (This work) would surely have turned out to be quite a different piece had not the fatal date arrived just as she was about to start work on the second movement. That inevitably became an elegy, and the subsequent two movements grew from there.” Winner of the coveted Avery Fisher Prize, David Shifrin has long been one of the most highly respected American Clarinetists for his work as Orchestral Soloist, Recitalist, Chamber Music Collaborator and Educator. He has appeared with the nation’s foremost symphonies and internationally with orchestras in Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Japan, Korea and Taiwan. A much sought after chamber musician, he has collaborated with such distinguished ensembles and artists as the Guarneri, Tokyo, Emerson, Orion, Dover and Miro String Quartets, Trumpeter and Composer Wynton Marsalis, and Pianists Emanuel Ax, André Previn and André Watts. He has served as Principal Clarinetist with the Cleveland Orchestra, American Symphony Orchestra (under Stokowski), the Honolulu, Dallas and New Haven symphonies, the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and the New York Chamber Symphony. Shifrin joined the faculty at the Yale School of Music in 1987 and since 2008, has been the Artistic Director of the Chamber Music Society of Yale and Yale's Annual Concert Series at Carnegie Hall. In January 2022, he was named the Samuel S. Sanford Professor in the Practice of Clarinet. He has also served on the faculties of The Juilliard School, University of Southern California, University of Michigan, Cleveland Institute of Music and the University of Hawaii. He has received three Grammy nominations, is the recipient of a Solo Recitalists' Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts and a Concert Artist Guild Virtuoso Award, among many other prestigious honors. Following its highly acclaimed 25th Anniversary Season, including sold-out shows and a celebrated performance accompanying Award-Winning Alt-Rock Indie vocalist Natalie Merchant, South Florida’s largest symphonic orchestra is continuing its musical journey of excellence inspiring audiences of all ages. Upcoming concerts include masterworks from Tchaikovsky and Bruch plus popular music performances including Maestra Alfonso conducting SFSO in a live performance of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone ™ In Concert on April 5th and April 6th and the Classical Mystery Tour: A Symphonic Tribute to The Beatles on May 11th, both at Broward Center for the Performing Arts (separately ticketed events). Single tickets for this program begin at $15 for the Parker in Fort Lauderdale and $25 for New World Center in Miami Beach. For tickets and additional information, visit: www.southfloridasymphony.org - call: (954) 522-8445. Or email: info@southfloridasymphony.org . The South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, the now Wilton Manors-based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is celebrating its 26th Season. SFSO is dedicated to providing enriching cultural music experiences to residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative programming and transformative educational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communities, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of 100,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO was recently named the first Partner in the Arts for The Parker by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored. For a performance schedule and season tickets, visit: www.southfloridasymphony.org . Call: (954) 522-8445. Or email: info@southfloridasymphony.org . < Previous News Next News >

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