Leaving Afghanistan Was the Right Move, Time to Turn Our Attention to China By Dustin Berna, Ph.D. September 23, 2021 Share (Above) Dustin Berna, Ph.D. - Associate Professor of Conflict Resolution and Political Science Director of Assessment & Planning - NSU'S Halmos College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences The time had come for the U.S. to leave Afghanistan. Both Presidents Biden and Trump were correct, and it’s time we stop this bipartisan assault on their foreign policy decisions related to our withdrawal from Afghanistan. We must shift our resources (both military and financial) from nation-building to preparedness for a militarizing China. We’ve all seen the disturbing images of desperate people trying to escape Afghanistan and the Taliban committing acts of brutality against peaceful protesters. As tragic as that is, we must accept that our withdrawal was the correct decision. Afghanistan was a losing proposition and remaining there ran counter to our own interests and national security. Both presidents realized this and had the conviction to act. We lost countless Americans and spent billions of dollars for nothing; it is not the job of the U.S. to spread democracy and be the global protector of human rights. A better allocation of those resources is toward the Pacific to prepare for our greatest threat, a militarized China. The Taliban was able to take complete control of Kabul and its six million citizens in just 10 days without force. For the most part, they were welcomed into the city by countless Afghans, and their success left most American bewildered, angry, and heartbroken. We wanted to share the American dream where hard work and dedication can give one a better life. Where differences are protected by a constitution that ensures equality for all. We wanted girls to be protected and educated and able to determine their own futures. We naively assumed the Afghans wanted this too. How can we expect Americans to die protecting Afghani freedom when they refused to fight for their own? Their military and security forces simply ran away, and their democratically elected president fled like a coward. We did not betray the Afghani people. We left every building-block they needed to establish and protect their democracy and they simply refused. We’re all left wondering, what was our national sacrifice for? It is clear there was no strategic plan to evacuate Americans and others from Afghanistan before the set deadline, as evidenced by the images we see on the nightly news. Despite this chaotic situation, more than 120,000 Afghans have been airlifted to freedom and that is something positive. The American people are welcoming Afghani refugees, and this compassion shows who we are as a people, and we should be proud. It is time we give both Biden and Trump the credit they deserve for putting American interests and security first, something their two predecessors failed to do. President Bush created a constitutional democracy with a strong central government and weak provisional governments. This was his first and biggest mistake. What Afghanistan needed was something akin to our pre-constitutional republic; an Articles of Confederation where the federal government was weak, and the provinces and tribal regions had the bulk of the power. Under President Obama, billions of dollars were poured into a corrupt system where Afghan politicians enriched themselves and their friends, ignoring the needs of Afghani people. In part, this explains why the Taliban were able to gain control with almost no opposition. Now that we’ve exited Afghanistan, it’s essential we turn our attention to China and start taking their military expansion more seriously. Over the last 20 years as we have attempted to nation-build, the Chinese significantly increased their military, developed high-tech weaponry that can reach our borders, tripled their navy, and successfully built islands in the Pacific to use as military bases. They have not wasted their capital, time, resources, or lives on nation building or spreading democracy; their resources go to ensuring their own national security. We’re out of Afghanistan now. Our military must remain vigilant, and we must keep American interests as our main priority, or the next hot spot we’ll have to deal with will be China. Dustin Berna, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Conflict Resolution and Political Science Director of Assessment & Planning NSU'S Halmos College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences < Previous News Next News >

Cinema Paradiso: New Programming Brings More Hollywood Thu Jul 15 2021 05:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Gulfstream Park Heats Up In 2023 With High-Season Entertainment: From Horse Racing And Casino Games To Shopping And Dining, Offering A Wide Range Of Entertainment Options Wed Jan 18 2023 17:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Making Strides Walkathon: A Time of Hopes, Dreams And Perhaps, Miracles Thu Nov 04 2021 04:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Festive Fumbles: 3,000 Women Identify the Worst Christmas Gifts They Have Received December 25, 2024 Share Finding the perfect Christmas gift for the woman in your life can be a bit of a minefield; yes, you theoretically should know her well enough by now to be wise to her loves and hates, but it seems that time after time, men just get it a bit (or a lot) wrong. There’s the supposedly sexy underwear that’s either too big or too small (both are insulting), the item of clothing that is definitely not in her preferred color or style, the perfume set that is definitely not her favorite fragrance, or the recipe book that suggests she should spend more time in the kitchen — looking after him. Sometimes men get it so wrong that their choice of gift could do more than annoy the women they love; it could even bring about the end of their relationship! Conducting a survey of 3,000 respondents, DatingAdvice wanted to find out which presents Florida women have received that would cause them to call time on their relationship. Men of Florida, if you want to avoid being single over Christmas, we suggest you read this carefully… #1 Cleaning Supplies or a Vacuum Cleaner Let’s face it, no woman wants to be made to feel as if she’s no more than a mere maid, whose only job it is to clean up around her man. We’re not in the 1950's anymore, Toto! #2 A Diet Book or Weight Loss Program Membership This gift is particularly thoughtless given that Christmas is one of the times of year that people usually eat the most, splurging on turkey or ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cornbread, cookies, the works! No one wants to receive a gift that makes them think their partner believes they’ve turned into a tubby butterball, especially after eating one. #3 Personal Hygiene Products Ah, that slight whiff of suggesting you might have… a slight whiff about you. Anything from mouthwash to deodorant basically says, ‘You stink.’ #4 Last-Minute "Panic Gifts" from Drugstores Nothing says ‘I literally gave this no thought’ like a generic ‘present’ from the likes of Walgreens or CVS. From a random perfume gift set to a cheap, own-brand lipstick, these should be avoided at all costs. #5 Unrequested Self-Help books Woooo boy, this is a screaming no-no, for it suggests that you think something is seriously wrong with your lady love. Yes, many men like to think that they can offer a practical solution to any problem, but this, my friends, is not the way to do it. Unless your partner is genuinely seeking help for a specific issue — from giving up smoking to getting over the death of a pet — AVOID this at all costs. #6 A Cookbook For Beginners Want to subtly, or perhaps not so-subtly, tell someone that you don’t like their cooking? Then consider giving them a cookbook, especially one designed for beginners and particularly if they didn’t put this on their wish list. Men, this will go down as well as burnt toast if you choose it for your partner. #7 A Book On Improving Social Skills Any book on life skills, or social etiquette could be seen as a negative critique on someone, even if you have the best intentions. There is no quicker way to get on someone’s bad side than by gifting a book that could potentially be seen as a criticism of their personality or decision making. #8 Fitness Equipment Or Gym Membership Many of us have weight loss goals set for our New Year’s resolution or plan on taking out a gym membership come 2025 - while it may seem like a good idea to cover the cost of this for someone you love it could also be seen as a big insult. To that end, its best to steer clear of any fitness related gifts, such as at home gym equipment, gym clothes, or health supplements unless someone specifically requests these. The survey also had some other interesting findings; the main thing that partners said was the hardest part about buying gifts for women was: ‘She already has everything’ (28%) — patently not true, just ask her for ideas if you’re stuck! Another 23% lamely said, ‘I have no idea what she likes’ — er, hello, you’re dating her — if you don’t know by now, you never will. Clearly, you’re just not paying attention to her. Another 17% said both ‘She drops hints I can never pick up on’ (sigh) and ‘She’s impossible to shop for,’ (really!?) while some scrooges out there (16%) claimed ‘She has expensive taste.’ The most last-minute gift women have ever received was a gift card with the amount written in pen (42%). Nearly a quarter (22%) said they received a supposedly ‘thoughtful’ IOU, which essentially just says the man couldn’t be bothered. Even worse, 19% gave something they got at the gas station, and most pathetic of all, 17% got a random item from their own closet! Women can be very forgiving, however, and over a third (38%) said they would put the situation behind them if they got an amazing, surprise, follow-up gift (unlikely, if DatingAdvice’s survey is anything to go by). Tying at 31% was a heartfelt apology (okay, plenty of groveling) and a romantic dinner or similarly sweet gesture. It’s not like women expect something expensive and unattainable, either; if their partner had to buy a gift on a budget, 28% said they would appreciate something homemade and thoughtful, while 25% would be over the moon with a sincere love letter. Another 20% would love a cozy blanket or candles for relaxing, 15% would be very happy with a subscription for a small indulgence, like coffee or chocolates, and 13% would just love a simple but meaningful piece of jewelry. Finally, if their partner could have one gift-free Christmas, what they would like to do instead would be spending the entire day together with no distractions (31%), followed by planning a romantic getaway (28%) or cooking an amazing holiday meal (26%). Another 15% said they would want him to write them a love letter or heartfelt card. < Previous News Next News >

Where Fun And Safety Collide: Aventura Parents Night Out 2023-24 Series September 28, 2023 Share As parents, we often find ourselves juggling a multitude of responsibilities. From school drop-offs to soccer practice, playdates to PTA meetings, it can sometimes feel like a never-ending cycle. But every now and then, a little break is not only well-deserved but also necessary for our sanity. The City of Aventura understands this, which is why they have created a haven for parents called the "Parents Night Out 2023-24 Series." Imagine a night when you can trade in your parental duties for a few hours of relaxation and fun, knowing that your little ones are not only in safe hands but are also having the time of their lives. That's exactly what Aventura's Parents Night Out promises to deliver. The Aventura Parents Night Out is hosted at the Community Recreation Center, a hub of community activities located at 3375 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. The event takes place from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., giving parents ample time to enjoy an evening out while their kids are engaged in a world of excitement. Now, let's dive into the juicy details of what this series has in store for your youngsters. Each event is carefully curated to provide both entertainment and education for kids aged 5 to 12. Here's a sneak peek into the 2023-24 series lineup: Friday, October 13th, 2023 - The Spooky Scavenger Hunt: Kicking off the series is a thrilling Spooky Scavenger Hunt that promises chills, thrills, and endless fun. Kids will have a blast as they embark on a quest to solve mysteries, find hidden treasures, and maybe even uncover a ghost or two! Friday, December 15th, 2023 - We're A Bright Bunch: As the holiday season approaches, your little ones will get the chance to unleash their creative side. "We're A Bright Bunch" is all about festive crafts, dazzling decorations and spreading holiday cheer. Friday, February 9th, 2024 - Our Little Sweethearts: Just in time for Valentine's Day, the Aventura Parents Night Out transforms into a celebration of love and friendship. Kids will engage in heartwarming activities that remind us all of the importance of kindness and compassion. Friday, April 12th, 2024 - Closing out the series is "The Place To Bee." The event will educate and entertain kids with a Spring Theme, There will be hands-on activities and games. What sets the Aventura Parents Night Out apart is not just the exciting lineup of activities but also the peace of mind it provides to parents. When you drop off your child at the Community Recreation Center, you can rest easy knowing they are in the care of experienced professionals who prioritize safety above all else. In addition to safety, the event takes care of dinner too! A delicious pizza meal is included in the package, ensuring that your child stays well-fed and energized throughout the evening. No need to rush through a meal before heading out; your child will enjoy a tasty dinner as part of their night of adventure. To participate in the Aventura Parents Night Out, Pre-Registration is a must. You can complete the Registration process exclusively online with a Valid and Existing Account at: https://secure.rec1.com/FL/aventura-fl/catalog - The pricing for this extraordinary night out is incredibly reasonable, at just $30 per child. Considering the hours of entertainment and peace of mind it offers. So, mark your calendars and prepare for a night of relaxation and rejuvenation, all while your little ones embark on an unforgettable night of fun, friendship, and discovery. Aventura's Parents Night Out is the perfect blend of entertainment and peace of mind, and it's an opportunity you don't want to miss. Say goodbye to parental stress for a night and embrace the joy of the Aventura Parents Night Out! For questions about the program you can always reach out to the Community Recreation Center directly at: (305) 466-3883. Their friendly Staff will be more than happy to provide you with all the details you need to make this event a part of your family's schedule. Registration can be completed exclusively online only with a Valid and Existing Account at: https://secure.rec1.com/FL/aventura-fl/catalog < Previous News Next News >

Tacos & Tequila: A Festive Cinco De Mayo Celebration For A Cause April 25, 2024 Share In the spirit of Cinco de Mayo, Feeding South Florida, the region's premier hunger-relief organization, is gearing up to host "Tacos & Tequila" at its Pembroke Park Warehouse on Saturday, May 4th, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This outdoor fiesta promises a tantalizing array of tacos, refreshing Tequila Cocktails, live music, and family-friendly activities, all in support of Feeding South Florida's tireless mission to combat hunger in the region. Food enthusiasts and philanthropists alike can rejoice in the delectable offerings from some of South Florida's most esteemed bars, restaurants, and food trucks. With an assortment of mouthwatering Tacos and carefully crafted Tequila Cocktails, attendees are in for a culinary treat. The event will also feature a friendly competition among participating partners vying for the titles of "Best Taco" and "Best Tequila Cocktail," adding an extra dash of excitement to the festivities. Among the featured Tequila Brands are Teremana Tequila, Moët, Hennessy, and Palma Cerveza, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection for guests to savor. Culinary delights will be provided by renowned establishments such as Bartaco, Chef Chris Valdes, Rainbow-licious Deelites, and Feeding South Florida's very own Community Kitchen. But Tacos & Tequila isn't just about indulging in delicious fare; it's also a celebration for the whole family. A dedicated kid's zone will keep the little ones entertained, while a magical Margarita garden and a raffle offering exciting prizes will add to the fun for attendees of all ages. Live entertainment, music, and Salsa Dancing will set the stage for an unforgettable day of revelry and goodwill. Tickets to this unforgettable event are all-inclusive, offering access to food, drinks, the Kid's Zone, live entertainment, and Salsa Dancing. For those seeking an elevated experience, VIP Tickets grant entry to a Private VIP Area, premium food and beverages, and exclusive access to the Margarita garden and more. Amidst the festivities, it's important to remember the cause at hand. In South Florida, over 1.2 million individuals grapple with food insecurity, with one in nine unsure of where their next meal will come from. Factors such as inflation, supply chain strains, rising fuel prices, and increased housing costs only exacerbate this issue. The proceeds raised from Tacos & Tequila will play a crucial role in supporting Feeding South Florida's efforts to provide immediate access to nutritious food, advocate for hunger and poverty relief, and implement innovative programming and education initiatives. So mark your calendars for Saturday, May 4th, and join us at Feeding South Florida's Pembroke Park Warehouse for a celebration that combines culinary delights with a noble cause. General Admission Tickets are priced at $40, while VIP Admission offers an enhanced experience for $75. Children's Tickets are also available for $20. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Feeding South Florida's website. Additionally, vendor and sponsorship opportunities are still open. To learn more about how you can get involved, contact Shelby Coldiron at: events@feedingsouthflorida.org . Or: (954) 518-1818. Extension#: 1852. Feeding South Florida stands as a beacon of hope for the region's food-insecure population. As a member of the Feeding America Network, it serves Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe Counties, supporting a quarter of the state's food-insecure individuals. Through direct-service programs and a vast network of nonprofit and community partners, Feeding South Florida has made a tangible impact, serving over 1.17 million individuals in their mission. Proceeds raised during the event will allow Feeding South Florida to fulfill its mission to end hunger in South Florida by providing immediate access to nutritious food, leading hunger and poverty advocacy efforts, and transforming lives through innovative programming and education. Where & When Saturday, May 4th, 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Feeding South Florida Pembroke Park Warehouse 2501 Southwest 32nd Terrace Pembroke Park, Florida 33023 Cost General Admission: $40 VIP Admission: $75 Children’s Admission: $20 For more information about Feeding South Florida and its initiatives, visit: www.feedingsouthflorida.org - Or call: (954) 518-1818. Let's come together to make a difference in our community while enjoying a day of festive fun and delicious food at Tacos & Tequila! For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/tacostequila-may/. < Previous News Next News >

Need Work Skills Training? January 5, 2022 Share Scholarships Are Available for Eligible Hollywood Residents (Pictured) City of Hollywood Low to Moderate Income (LMI) Areas The City of Hollywood, in partnership with OIC of South Florida, is offering Work Skills Training Scholarships to eligible Hollywood residents. The 12-week course provides FREE in-depth vocational training, preparing participants for entry-level positions on their career path. Courses will be held on Saturdays from January 22 to April 16, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center located at 2400 Charleston Street in Hollywood. The course will concentrate on Warehouse logistics. Upon completion, potential positions and salaries include: Hand Laborer & Material Mover - $27,710 Packing Specialist - $25,910 Shipping & Receiving Clerk - $29,699 Only those applicants residing within the City's low to moderate-income (LMI) neighborhoods may participate in the Work Skills Training Scholarship Program. All submitted applications will go through an address verification process to ensure that participants meet this program requirement. Participants must also self-certify household income and provide proof of their U.S. Citizen or legal resident status. Online applications are now open until Sunday, January 9 at 11 p.m. at this link: https://www.hollywoodfl.org/FormCenter/CMED-6/Work-Skills-Training-Scholarship-Program-231 POSTPONED: January Operation Paintbrush Paint Distribution Event The City's supply of recycled paint for the January event has NOT been secured from Broward County. Due to the lack of supply, the January event has been postponed. The City is targeting Saturday, February 12, 2022 as a POSSIBLE date for the next event. Please continue to check the event calendar at www.hollywoodfl.org for the latest event information. < Previous News Next News >

Paid Immunity: Should We Receive Money To Get Vaccinated? Thu Sep 16 2021 04:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Public Art Program at The Parker - Dynamic outdoor art light projection by Mad Arts kicks off in January December 25, 2024 Share Funding Arts Broward (FAB) announced the launch of a new public art program titled, FAB Goes Public, with a dynamic outdoor artistic light display on the exterior wall of The Parker in Fort Lauderdale from January through April. Made possible with the support of Funding Arts Broward, the membership-based organization dedicated to championing the arts in Broward, in collaboration with the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, The Parker and Mad Arts, FAB Goes Public is FAB’s public art initiative designed to broaden appreciation for the arts within the community, reach a larger audience and benefit emerging artists by teaching them new skills and showcasing their work. The impetus behind FAB Goes Public originated from the nonprofit’s recently published “Enriching the Arts Opportunities in Broward County’s Arts Community” report which identified key needs within Broward County’s arts community. A signature public art event was a top priority. “Public art enhances our cultural landscape, engages communities, contributes to economic vitality and celebrates diversity,” said FAB President Mary Riedel. “We are thrilled to be able to bring this multi-month outdoor light projection to the community and at the same time support our local artists.” Miami native, Marc Aptakin, Founder and acting CEO of Mad Arts, is a longtime supporter of local arts initiatives, providing complimentary space for artists exhibits and now includes education. “As a former artist and photographer, I support the arts and artists in any way that I can,” said Aptakin. “I’m delighted to partner with FAB and host instructive workshops for aspiring artists.” FAB worked alongside Sofia Bastidas, Mad Arts Curator, to identify the artists that will be showcased for FAB Goes Public. The artists include Rosanna Kalis and Miguel Gonzalez, who are both local artists working at the intersection of arts and technology. The project seeks to empower and elevate local artists by expanding their digital expertise to enhance their visibility. An important part of the program was to implement an educational initiative at Mad Arts. This program hopes to educate participants to explore their creativity and develop new technical skills, such as 3D projection mapping. “With this immersive lighting experience at The Parker, we have a unique opportunity to weave in the visual arts with the performing arts,” said Lisa Kitei, President of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation and longtime FAB member. “We look forward to lighting up the sky at The Parker to further engage our community in the arts.” The Parker is located at 707 Northeast 8th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. Funding Arts Broward (FAB) Funding Arts Broward (FAB) is a privately funded non-profit organization that provides visual arts and arts education grants to non-profit organizations in Broward. FAB funds an annual grant pool of up to $400K, through the support of its members, corporate partners, and allied foundations. FAB was founded by local artist and philanthropist Francie Bishop Good. More information about FAB can be found at: https://fundingartsbroward.org . Follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/fundingartsbroward. Mad Arts A Non-Profit Organization founded in 2020, Mad Arts is a museum, community hub, and laboratory for art and technology. Facilitating visionary exhibitions and projects by individuals, collectives, and companies, Mad Arts operates out of its flagship headquarters, a 50,000-square-foot space in South Florida. More information about MAD can be found at: www.yeswearemadarts.com . The Parker The Parker is Fort Lauderdale’s iconic, heritage theater presenting concerts, comedy, dance, family fare and more. Beautifully renovated in 2021, The Parker offers audiences enhanced entertainment and hospitality experiences. The neo-classical Lillian S. Wells Hall features outstanding acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, wide rows and continental seating. The grand S. Donald Sussman Lobby, Bernie Peck’s Bar, the intimate Haller Club, and the private members’ lounge, The Place To Be, provide ample opportunities for audiences to enjoy culture, cocktails and conversation with every visit to the theater. For more information, visit: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com < Previous News Next News >

2024 State of The City: From City of Hollywood Mayor Josh Levy jlevy@hollywoodfl.org January 31, 2024 Share Hello There, Hollywood Residents. Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to present the State of the City Address to the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, an invitation that the chamber extends to Hollywood's mayor at the start of each new year. In this year's address, I highlighted the many ways we are working to achieve our city’s mission: "To provide a thriving community, where quality living and the opportunity for success is made available to all." These are exciting times for Hollywood. We have a stronger and structurally balanced annual budget, and through that, we are continuing to usher in major improvements for our city's neighborhoods, parks, roadways, public safety, infrastructure, stormwater management, environmental resiliency, housing affordability and much more. To learn more, you can watch the complete State of the City at the video link: https://youtu.be/WE3C8TZ1Eqk?si=FoKuESEBm2cZ26Xo My discussion begins with a report on our city’s financial health, which is a critical component to the quality of life that a city can provide for its residents. For 2024, I was happy to report that through our continuing commitment to sound financial administration and governance that is future-oriented, our Operating Budget for 2024 is at a record $779 Million Dollars and it is again structurally balanced. Our citywide taxable property values are now at a record $23.2 Billion Dollars, which is up a very strong 11% over last year, and up 75% since I was elected in 2016. And together with our commitment to maintaining recommended levels of reserves, higher bond ratings and controlling expenses, we are on track to see our city flourish and able to reinvest back into our community, without burdening residents with higher taxes. We’ll see significant improvements to our parks with new playgrounds, fields, lighting, pathways, computers, fitness equipment, pickleball courts and basketball courts, dog parks and more. For our Water and Wastewater Utilities infrastructure, we are in the midst of massive injection well projects that will end the disposal of treated wastewater into the ocean. We’ll continue neighborhood watermain replacements and expanding the sewer system where we can, and we’ll continue upgrading our stormwater system to improve our city’s drainage given it no longer delivers an adequate level of service for a community experiencing changing climate conditions. Lots of work is needed in this area. We have many roadway resurfacing, streetlighting and sidewalk improvement projects ahead. Our voter approved General Obligation Bond projects are also progressing. We’ll break ground on the new Police Headquarters this year, beginning construction of tidal flooding mitigation and sea walls, renewed city golf courses, neighborhood traffic calming, planting more trees and new landscaping, beautification and much more. These are exciting times for Hollywood. We will be entering our city's centennial year in 2025, celebrating 100 years of Hollywood in better financial health, with a future for Hollywood that is physically safer, operationally better, environmentally greener and more sustainable, commercially stronger, visually more appealing, residentially more desirable and historically prouder. Together, we will continue to do great things. Best to everyone in the New Year, Mayor Josh Levy < Previous News Next News >

Elevated Pasta Night: Offers Unique Dining Experience At Arc Culinary's Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen Thu Aug 29 2024 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)