Broadway & An Evening of Yiddish Classics - An Eclectic Mix of Performances This January In Aventura Wed Dec 18 2024 19:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Summer Of Smiles: Gulfstream Park Village Has It All Thu Jun 02 2022 04:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Sterling Aventura Hosts City of Aventura Mayor: The Tri-County Senior Network Event Was An Informative Success May 15, 2024 Share The Sterling Aventura and The Tri-County Senior Network held a networking event this month to host Aventura Mayor Howard Weinberg. Mayor Weinberg discussed the positive changes happening in the City. School growth, and transportation issues for residents are important topics that were covered and the City Commission is implementing many changes. The Mayor even described how the Freebee service came about in the city. The question and answer session was also informative and the mayor is always open to discuss topics to better the city. The Sterling Aventura At The Sterling Aventura, they want you to live well. The team at their assisted living and memory care community supports individual growth amid a network of neighbors and friendly staff. Build on your legacy and experience a nurturing, stimulating environment where you can live purposefully. Their Florida senior living community caters to those in pursuit of exceptional lives, which is why they offer enrichment programs aimed to stimulate the mind, body and spirit through holistic approaches and compassionate care. With a full team supporting your wellness and growth journey, their community is the ideal place to explore new hobbies and skills. Preserve Your Individuality Find personalized care at The Sterling Aventura. Every resident is unique, so they design programs based around each individual. Discover a community that respects and cares for you, that wants to get to know you better. They encourage you to make your Aventura senior housing space your own and to invite your friends and family to come visit as much as possible. They’ll be there to support you throughout your wellness journey with physical, emotional, social and spiritual support that will help you flourish. Through their specialty programs, you can preserve your individuality while exploring new pursuits with ease. Relaxing Location The Sterling Aventura is located on Northeast 183rd Street in Aventura with many nearby area attractions. You or your loved one can enjoy a community just minutes from the water with a lovely campus featuring walking paths and a shaded courtyard. Their peaceful campus is the perfect place to relax, read, focus on goals and take time to enjoy nature. In addition to on-site nature trails, community members can explore Founders Park and the Don Soffer Exercise Trail nearby. Love shopping and the arts? Just minutes away is the Aventura Mall and the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center. Of course, sandy beaches are just around the corner where you can sign up for City Programs to stay active and meet new friends. To learn more about The Sterling Aventura, and amenities and personalized care programs, call: (786) 751-6564. See the entire event here: https://issuu.com/suntimesnewspaper/docs/may_avd_-_2024_web/24?fr=sMjA0MDczNjE3MjQ < Previous News Next News >

Breathe Better With Asthma, Wherever You Are Thu Jul 18 2024 16:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Be The Change Get Involved - "Giving Thanks On Good Friday" Street Block Parties South Florida Sun Times Apr 17, 2025 On Friday, April 18th, 2025, The Caring Place At Miami Rescue Mission | Broward Outreach Centers Will Host Their Annual "Giving Thanks On Good Friday" Block Party, A Heartfelt And Community-Driven Event For The Homeless, Hungry And Families In Need Across South Florida. In A World Where The Most Vulnerable Often Go Unseen, This Initiative Provides Not Just A Meal But A Reminder Of God's Love And The Hope Of A Better Tomorrow. The event, which will take place on the streets in Miami and Hollywood, will see over 200 volunteers come together to serve more than 2,000 Thanksgiving-style meals to those in need. But this isn’t just a typical charity gathering. True to its name, “Giving Thanks on Good Friday” is a celebration of community and compassion, with a variety of activities and services designed to uplift those who often feel forgotten. At the heart of the event is a sit-down Thanksgiving-style meal, offering Thanksgiving style meals to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. This gesture is more than just about providing a meal—it’s about offering dignity, respect and community. It’s a reminder that the homeless are not invisible. Volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that every guest feels valued and cared for. One of the most profound aspects of the event is the foot-washing station, where volunteers will wash the feet of guests, mirroring the actions of Jesus at the Last Supper. This powerful ritual of humility and love reinforces the central message of the event - that everyone is worthy of compassion, no matter their circumstances. It is a deep expression of faith and care that creates lasting emotional impact for both those receiving the service and those providing it. In addition to the warm meal, attendees will receive gifts that address some of their most basic needs. Over 1,000 Easter baskets, generously donated by community partners, will be distributed to children at the centers and to other families in attendance. These baskets, filled with toys, candies and other goodies, bring joy to children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to celebrate Easter in a traditional way. Special gifts like hygiene bags, clothing, shoes and socks will also be given to guests, helping to restore their sense of self-worth. These items, often taken for granted by those in more privileged circumstances, are invaluable to people living on the streets. Providing these necessities is a tangible reminder that people care and it creates a sense of comfort and dignity for the recipients. Entertainment will also play a key role in the day’s events. At the Miami Center, a powerful Resurrection play will be performed by residents, giving them an opportunity to showcase their talents and tell a story of renewal and hope. It’s a beautiful way to remind everyone that no matter how far down the road of hardship they may have traveled, there is always the potential for transformation. The event will also feature appearances by the Easter Bunny, made possible by supporters from the Mickle Family, bringing smiles to children’s faces and creating a festive atmosphere. The Miami Center will host a live remote Radio Share-A-Thon broadcast by WIOD 610 AM, allowing the community to get involved from afar. The Share-A-Thon’s goal is to raise 20,000 meals, with generous sponsors pledging to match contributions dollar-for-dollar. It’s a powerful example of how the community can come together to make a tangible impact, even beyond the streets where the event takes place. Guest speakers will deliver powerful messages of faith, hope and renewal throughout the event. Sam Miranda from Crossbridge Church will speak at the Miami Center, offering an uplifting and inspiring message to guests. Similarly, Pastor Kevin Stowe from New Hope Church at Southwest Ranches will address attendees at the Broward Center, encouraging them to find hope and strength in the face of adversity. This event is an opportunity for people of all backgrounds and faiths to come together, united in their shared desire to help others. It’s not just a charity event—it’s a powerful expression of community and love. By serving those in need, everyone involved is reminded of the strength of human connection and the power of compassion. How You Can Get Involved While the event is a large-scale operation, it is fueled by the support of individuals, organizations and volunteers from across the region. More than 200 volunteers will donate their time and energy to make this event a success, but the need for volunteers and donations is always ongoing. Whether you can spare a few hours of your time or make a financial contribution, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference. One key way the community can participate is by supporting the WIOD Good Friday Radio Share-A-Thon, where listeners can donate to match meals pledged by sponsors. The goal is to raise enough funds for 20,000 meals, and every contribution counts. Donors can visit: www.caringplace.org/radio - Or call: (305) 572-2000 to make their pledges. Tony Villasuso, President of The Caring Place at Miami Rescue Mission | Broward Outreach Centers, emphasizes the importance of these events: “It’s a true privilege to serve the most vulnerable in our community with meals, care and compassion. Our Giving Thanks on Good Friday Outreach is more than just a meal—it’s a message of love and hope to homeless and at-risk families. We want them to know they are not forgotten and that there is a path forward. Many individuals make the decision to leave the streets and join one of our life-changing programs during this time. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors, the dedication of our volunteers and the unwavering support of our community. I pray a special blessing over each and every one of them” For more information on how to participate, visit: www.caringplace.org Previous Next

Paddleboard on Hollywood Beach Thu Mar 31 2022 04:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Icons & Rebels: The Masterworks Season Of Gershwin, Mozart & Other Greats August 23, 2024 Share For its 27th Season, South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) celebrates the icons and rebels of Classical Music, presenting a tantalizing season featuring popular works by Gershwin, Mozart, Strauss, Prokofiev, Berlioz, and the eagerly anticipated orchestra premiere of Bernstein’s satirical masterpiece Candide. Led by the Award-Winning Sebrina María Alfonso, SFSO will present five new powerful Masterworks concerts and the holiday fan-favorite, Handel’s glorious Messiah. The concerts will take place in Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Key West. "We're thrilled to present a captivating 27th Season, brimming with timeless masterpieces that reflect the dramatic beauty of the human experience," exclaimed Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso. "From love and laughter, joy and sorrow, to scorn, redemption, and ultimately grace, our 2024/25 Season embodies a tapestry of emotions drawn from literature, poetry, and fiction. The iconic composers featured left an indelible mark on Classical Music and Pop Culture. We can’t wait to share these evocative works - many new to SFSO's repertoire - with both our devoted audience and newcomers alike." The 2024/25 line-up is: MASTERWORKS I – 100 YEARS OF GERSHWIN’S RHAPSODY IN BLUE | PROKOFIEV & ELGAR SFSO pays tribute to the rule-breakers who paved the way for change! Celebrating 100 years of Rhapsody in Blue, Gershwin shocked critics who did not know how to process the unconventional work when it debuted, while the unorthodox and inventive Prokofiev is known for his Neo-Classical, modernist approach, and Elgar's Symphony No. 1, written in the rare key of A-flat, beautifully explores the universal experiences of love and hope. Wednesday, November 13th, 2024, 7:30 p.m.: The Parker, Fort Lauderdale Saturday, November 16th, 2024, 7:30 p.m.: New World Center, Miami Beach Gershwin: 100 Years of Rhapsody in Blue featuring Benjamin Hochman, piano Prokofiev: The Love for Three Oranges Suite *SFSO Premiere Elgar: Symphony No. 1 Handel’s Messiah and Holiday Pops Usher in the season of joy as South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s beloved holiday tradition returns. Enjoy the glorious sounds of Handel’s Messiah (Part 1, the Christmas portion) culminating in the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus. With dazzling guest vocalists and the South Florida Symphony Chorus, the festive concert also features a selection of your favorite holiday pops. Saturday, December 7th, 2024, 7:30 p.m.: The Parker, Fort Lauderdale Sunday, December 8th, 2024, 4:00 p.m.: Shepard & Ruth K. Broad Performing Arts Center at Barry University, Miami MASTERWORKS II – BERNSTEIN’S CANDIDE (Semi-staged concert version) “Glitter and Be Gay” as Maestra Sebrina Alfonso leads the South Florida Symphony Orchestra in a semi-staged concert version of Leonard Bernstein's satirical masterpiece Candide. SFSO’s Premiere of Candide follows in the manner of the New York Philharmonic's acclaimed 2004 Lonny Price production, made popular through the PBS series "Great Performances.” This version of Bernstein's Candide is played out with the orchestra, a dynamic cast of actor-vocalists, minimal sets and costumes, and a chorus performing all together on stage. Experience Candide's riotous journey as he embarks on a whirlwind adventure pursuing "the best of all possible worlds." Teeming with humor, unexpected twists, and profound philosophical reflections, Bernstein's iconic music, adapted from Voltaire's famed Enlightenment-era novella, sets the backdrop for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter and existential musings. Tuesday, January 14th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: New World Center, Miami Beach Thursday, January 16th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Fort Lauderdale *SFSO Gala evening Sunday, January 19th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: Tennessee Williams Theatre, Key West MASTERWORKS III – DON JUAN | STRAUSS & BERLIOZ Celebrate love in all its dramatic, poetic, erotic, scandalous and insatiable forms! February’s Masterworks program features three orchestra premieres including R. Strauss’ deeply emotive swan song, Four Last Songs; J. Strauss, II’s The Blue Danube, the world’s most famous Waltz, and Berlioz’s epic King Lear Overture. All anchored by the SFSO return of R. Strauss’ swashbuckling escapade Don Juan. Wednesday, February 12th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: The Parker, Fort Lauderdale Friday, February 14th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: Tennessee Williams Theatre, Key West Saturday, February 15th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: New World Center, Miami Beach J. Strauss, II: The Blue Danube *SFSO Premiere R. Strauss: Four Last Songs *SFSO Premiere Berlioz: King Lear Overture *SFSO Premiere R. Strauss: Don Juan MASTERWORKS IV – MOZART’S REQUIEM Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is one of the most prolific and influential musical geniuses of all time. In this stunning all-Mozart program, immerse yourself in the achingly beautiful Requiem as special guest vocalists and the South Florida Symphony Chorus lend their soaring talents to the celebrated masterpiece. The evening also features the transcendent Symphony No. 40, “The Great G minor,” largely considered one of Mozart’s finest works. Mozart: Requiem *SFSO Premiere Mozart: Symphony No. 40 Tuesday, March 11th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: New World Center, Miami Beach Wednesday, March 12th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: The Parker, Fort Lauderdale Saturday, March 15th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: Tennessee Williams Theatre, Key West MASTERWORKS V – PROKOFIEV | BRUCKNER The 2024/25 Season ends with the enchanting worlds of Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No. 3 and Bruckner's Symphony No. 4, "Romantic." Prokofiev's masterpiece is hailed as one of the most beloved concertos of the 20th century, sizzling with energy and lyricism. Meanwhile, Bruckner's "Romantic" evokes a mythical landscape filled with grandeur and medieval splendor. Majestic and lyrical, it is a testament to Bruckner's mastery and ability to transport listeners to a world of knights and legends. Wednesday, April 9th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: The Parker, Fort Lauderdale Thursday, April 10th, 2025, 7:30 p.m.: New World Center, Miami Beach Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No. 3 featuring Catherine Lan, piano Bruckner: Symphony No. 4, “Romantic” From sold-out masterworks performances to accompanying today’s musicians such as Natalie Merchant and performing modern musical scores, South Florida’s largest symphonic orchestra is continuing its journey of excellence inspiring audiences of all ages and musical genres. This season’s popular collaborations include ARRIVAL From Sweden: The Music of ABBA on September 14th, 2024 and Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, featuring the iconic film screened live with audio and musical accompaniment by SFSO on October 26th, 2024, both at Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Au-Rene Theater. Season subscriptions are on sale now for the Broward Season at The Parker and Broward Center for the Performing Arts, the Miami Season at New World Center and Key West Season at the Tennessee Williams Theatre at The College of the Florida Keys. Discounted subscription packages may be purchased by visiting: www.southfloridasymphony.org/2024-25-season - Or by calling: (954) 522-8445. Subscribers save 20% off single ticket prices and have first access to the best seats in the house. Five-concert packages in Fort Lauderdale are available from $152*; five-concert packages from $112* in Miami; and three-concert packages in Key West from $92* (*plus ticketing fees); Flexible ticket packages, single-show tickets, including student ticket and group rates, go on sale September 6th. Venue Locations The Parker: 707 Northeast 8th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 New World Center: 500 17th Street, Miami Beach, Florida 33139 Tennessee Williams Theatre at The College of the Florida Keys: 5901 College Road, Key West, Florida 33040 Broward Center for the Performing Arts: 201 Southwest 5th Avene, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312 Shepard & Ruth K. Broad Performing Arts Center at Barry University: 11300 Northeast 2nd Avenue, Miami Shores, Florida 33161 South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, the now Fort Lauderdale based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is celebrating its 27th 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 over 125,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO 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 >

Fifteen Ways: Aventura Residents Can Celebrate Earth & Arbor Day, Everyday By Joyce R. Forchion - LOVE Aventura April 25, 2024 Share Meteorologists and environmentalists alike would argue that the effects of global warming and rapid climate change have produced a series of unprecedented events. Since 2023, scientists measuring ocean heat have produced astoundingly high, record-breaking temperatures that continue to reflect the globe’s warmest year on record. Off-season thunderstorms continue to ravage California’s scenic landscape while a 4.8-magnitude earthquake shocked a New Jersey suburb that rattled most of the Northeast coast. Aventura has always been known for its beautification efforts and commitment to preserving its natural habitat. However, recent events taking place within the city limits– such as the repositioning of the Aventura Community Green Garden, along with the rare sighting of an enormous crocodile strolling down North Country Club Drive last month– have forced residents to reframe the way in which we think about our natural habitat. With Earth Day and Arbor Day approaching on Monday, April 22nd and Friday, April 26th, respectively, families can rest assured that environmental sustainability continues to remain a citywide priority as leaders will host its annual Earth and Arbor Day Celebration at 10:00 am on Friday, April 26th, 2024 at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. For those seeking a more personal approach to incorporating Earth-friendly practices into their households and daily routines, here’s a list of 15 steps individuals can take to become more accountable as socially responsible neighbors and global citizens. 1. Alter your energy plan as soon as possible. Residents and professionals find themselves spending a small fortune to heat offices and condos during the spring and summer months, but rates can be adjusted based on special provisions to consolidate resources. Remember to turn off the lights and electronic devices when not in use. 2. Gather your family to attend one of the public parks and facilities in the neighborhood. A listing of venues, depending on your desire to go for a stroll, play a game of softball, or enjoy a water splash pad, can be found at the following link: https://www.cityofaventura.com/219/Parks-Facilities. 3. Take a moment to clean up plastic in the neighborhood and make sure these items are discarded properly. 4. Plant a tree in honor of Arbor Day or a loved one who has transitioned. 5. Create a home-based garden on a windowsill or balcony. Before proceeding with this suggestion, check with your community manager to see if any policies or mandates need to be followed. 6. Reduce, reuse, RECYCLE, and spread the word! 7. Conserve water at any given opportunity. Reduce your time in the shower and running water to wash your hands, cook, and clean. Plus, drink more each day! 8. Alter your diet and pivot to healthier alternatives– including fruit and vegetable offerings– to reduce your carbon footprint. 9. Embrace walking and avoid driving when possible, especially within a 2-mile radius. 10. Utilize the Aventura BCycle Bike Share Program, Freebee ride share service, or carpooling to do your part in preventing fossil fuel emissions. 11. Donate to a South Florida-based botanical garden and financially support its events on an annual basis. 12. Compile recipes containing plant-based ingredients to increase your intake of nutrients promoting optimal health. 13. Filter your homes with house plants! Turn off the air conditioning system and open your windows, letting the breezes of spring fill your rooms. 14. Unplug from your mobile phone, laptop, and other portable devices and plug into the benefits of nature. Savor your surroundings and the beauty of living in the moment. 15. Attend your next Aventura Commission Meeting to express your concerns regarding environmental sustainability, or sign up to volunteer for one of the related Advisory Boards addressing these issues, such as the Community Service Advisory Board. The City of Aventura will continue to promote its ongoing GO Green campaign, which urges departments, businesses, and residents to embrace environmental sustainability practices by reducing costs, conserving energy, and maximizing natural resources. For more information regarding the City’s upcoming event honoring Earth Day and Arbor Day, visit the following website: https://www.cityofaventura.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=483. LOVE, AVENTURA. A column celebrating the heart, soul and culture of our community. < Previous News Next News >

It's A Baynanza: Have An Immediate And Positive Impact On Our Environment Thu Mar 28 2024 16:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Legislative Session And Condo Laws By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper February 6, 2025 Share As legislators are meeting in Tallahassee there has been discussion around the need to address the ambiguity in the current law requiring Condominium Structural Integrity Study and Full Reserves. As a Mayor, in a city with 100’s of condominiums, this issue has been of critical importance for many of our residents. So, what is being discussed? We keep hearing that there will be no state bailout. Even this is vague. I have been told it means no free money and that the law will not be rescinded. The changes being presented are to define what Full Reserves mean and what needs to be included and SIRS priorities. There are also proposals to establish a loan program and or the ability to have Private Lender Laws changed to provide condominium relief. Over the past few months, I have been asking Condominium Boards about collections when it comes to their assessment. This is important data when advocating for any type of funding. One larger condominium that I spoke with informed me that they have had zero defaults. I found this fascinating since many of the residents were extremely vocal that they could not afford the assessments. While no one desires to pay assessments, many are paying. I have continued to inform residents that my major concern is our seniors, who are on fixed incomes. Many of our residents are part time and their condo is their second home. When the City, County and State evaluate how to spend taxpayer dollars we cannot justify spending money on second homes, when people cannot even afford a home or their rent. This is why we are hearing of no bailout. The other major issue is many owners waive funding reserves to their own peril. In the Surfside case it resulted in a catastrophic loss of life. So there is not one legislator that wants to go back in time. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis held two workshops and was pushing for a special session but the Senate President said it was not necessary since both chambers were already meeting to discuss bills for the March Session. The Governor boasted about House Bill 1021 enhancing accountability for Condo Board Members, improved transparency for residents and strengthened enforcement mechanisms for those found to be out of compliance with safety standards. Condominiums are also facing the requirement of an Engineered Life Safety System, ELSS. Just like many owners put off reserves, many put off implementing ELSS. For years they thought legislators could be lobbied to rescind the law. This year on January 1st, 2025, condominiums must have come up with a plan, then file for permits and have the work performed by 2026. This law will also not be changed. The law does provide for the election of the type of system where sprinklers will be needed. Some buildings have opted to only put sprinklers in the hallways rather than in every single unit. Sprinklers are required in every commercial area of the building. I have received questions like “why do I have to pay now for something that will not be performed for another year or maybe two?” To acquire estimates and create plans, boards will require funding for engineering. In many cases, they will also have to execute contracts in the first year to submit for permits. As the Legislative Session continues, I will keep residents informed and updated on any changes to state law. At this point, I believe there may be slight changes but currently buildings must perform Milestone Inspections for 40 and 50 years and address building deficiencies. I also want to stress that if your building has passed Assessment, unit owners continue to pay for them. This includes ELSS. Just like a Tax Bill, your condominium board is responsible to ensure your buildings are safe and lack of payments will put owners in default. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit me on my Facebook page at: Mayor Joy Cooper. Like! Follow! And share! You may also subscribe at: www.mayorjoycooper.com < Previous News Next News >

Shavuot Is A Cheesy Jewish Holiday: The Crossroads Between Religion & Cuisine By Rabbi Moishe Kievman Chabad Chayil June 13, 2024 Share At a unique crossroads between religion and cuisine, the Holiday of Shavuot, celebrating the Giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai some 3,336 years ago, has become a celebration of fine dairy cuisine as well. Shavuot is celebrated for two days, this year beginning at sundown on Tuesday, June 11th, 2024 and ending at nightfall on Thursday, June 13th. 50 days after leaving Egypt on Passover, the Jewish people received the Torah from G-d at Mount Sinai on the holiday of Shavuot. Shavuot literally means “weeks” and marks the completion of the seven-week counting period between Passover and Shavuot. Shavuot customs include all-night Torah study, listening to the recitation of the Ten Commandments, the reading of the Book of Ruth, eating dairy products and adorning the home with flowers. With the giving of the Torah, the Jews became obligated to observe the Kosher Laws. As the Torah was given on Shabbat, no cattle or poultry could be slaughtered, nor could we make sure that the animal's insides were healthy and then properly cleaned out as is required in order for the meat to be Kosher. In addition, utensils could not be Koshered, and as such we ate dairy. Exquisite cheesecakes, pesto pastas, lasagna, souffles and of course, cheese blintzes all take center stage during this ancient celebration. When thinking Jewish Holidays, Passover, Chanukah and Yom Kippur usually come to mind first. Nevertheless, Shavuot is considered one of Judaism's main holidays and was in fact a “pilgrimage” when all of Israel would travel to Jerusalem to celebrate in the Temple in Jerusalem. No, it isn't all about the food. Especially in lieu of what's been happening in the world since Simchat Torah (Oct. 7, 03), what is important is that the community is joining together, hearing the Ten Commandments and celebrating the Torah. But the good food certainly helps. The tradition to learn all night has been practiced ever since we received the Torah. On the very night before G-d gave the Torah, we went to sleep, waking late in the morning. As a symbolic rectification for this, Jews customarily stay awake studying Torah until the morning, on the first night of Shavuot, this year on Tuesday night. Since we all stood at Mount Sinai, we must all reaffirm our commitment. On Wednesday, June 12th, the Ten Commandments will be read aloud from the Torah. Special emphasis is placed on including the entire Jewish family, including little babies, the way the Torah’s giving was attended by every Jewish man, woman and child. The word Torah means “instruction” or “guide.” The Torah guides our every step and move through its 613 mitzvahs. The word mitzvah means both “commandment” and “connection.” Through the study of Torah and fulfillment of mitzvahs, we connect ourselves and our environment to G‑d. G‑d’s purpose in creating the world was that all of creation be sanctified, imbuing it with holiness and spirituality. Since Shavuot is also called the “Harvest Festival,” it is customary to adorn the home with fruits, flowers and greens. Most of us are, thank G-d, able to get out and celebrate the way we have for over three thousand years. But for those that are for whatever reason staying home, that should in no way stop you from celebrating the holiday, since most of the holiday is super easy to celebrate even while at home alone. Not going to work ✓ Eating dairy ✓ Praying the special holiday prayers ✓ Studying Torah all night ✓ Decorating the home with flowers ✓ The only things that we can't do without a quorum, are hearing the Ten Commandments read from the Torah and praying with a minyan. But you can still study the Ten Commandments from a Torah Book, known as a Chumash ✓. And you can still read Yizkor, even without a minyan ✓. To learn more about Shavuot and the many customs associated with it, visit: www.ChabadChayil.org/Shavuot. There you can also get delicious dairy & dairy-like recipes, send free holiday greeting cards, download the prayers & suggested all night Torah study. If you are able to go out, then you should certainly make sure to attend services this holiday, at least to hear the Ten Commandments read from the Torah on Tuesday morning, and of course to thank G-d that you're feeling well. Of course you are welcome to join us at the Family Shul in Highland Lakes. For the full schedule, call: (305) 770-1919. Or visit: https://www.chabadchayil.org/templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/1863431/jewish/Shavuot-Schedule.htm - where you can RSVP for holiday meals and find the full schedule. The Author Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, your local CTeen & CKids chapters, CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools and direct Chabad Chayil. He’s the Rabbi at The Family Shul and can be reached at: (305) 770-1919. Or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org . You can also support the community with your partnership at: www.ChabadChayil.org/Donate < Previous News Next News >

Reel Fun In South Florida - 10 Tasty Reasons To Dive Into The South Beach Seafood Fest This Fall Wed Oct 16 2024 19:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)