The City Of Aventura Is Hiring: Join The Team With an Unwavering Desire to Make a Difference Tue Jul 18 2023 16:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Dine Out Hollywood Returns & Registration Is Open Now By City of Hollywood Sep 3, 2026 Dine Out Hollywood Returns From Thursday, October 1st, 2026 – Saturday, October 31st, 2026 Inviting Residents And Visitors To Explore The Diverse Restaurants And Culinary Experiences That Make Hollywood A Unique Dining Destination. Following A Successful Inaugural Year, Local Restaurants And Eligible Businesses Are Now Encouraged To Register For The Month-Long Program. Participation Is Free And Provides An Opportunity For Businesses To Showcase Their Offerings, Attract New Customers, And Be Part Of A Citywide Celebration Of Hollywood’s Dining Scene. Dine Out Hollywood highlights participating restaurants through special three-course prix fixe menus and also features unique food and beverage experiences offered by local businesses, giving residents and visitors even more ways to discover what Hollywood has to offer. Last year, more than 20 restaurants participated, attracting media attention from Deco Drive and NBC 6 South Florida Live and helping spotlight Hollywood’s growing culinary scene. From casual neighborhood eateries to chef-driven concepts and other culinary-focused businesses, participants can create an offering that reflects what makes their business unique. Restaurants can feature signature dishes through a special prix fixe menu, while other eligible businesses can offer culinary experiences. Businesses can choose when their special menu or experience is available throughout October and are encouraged to have details, pricing, descriptions and high-quality photos ready when registering. Participation is free, and all registered businesses will be included in the City’s Dine Out Hollywood marketing campaign. For diners, Dine Out Hollywood is the perfect opportunity to gather with family and friends, try somewhere new and support the local restaurants that contribute to Hollywood’s economy and character. Restaurants and eligible businesses interested in participating can register now at: www.ChooseHollywoodFL.com/DineOut . Or call: (954) 921-3620 for more information. Previous Next

YMCA Of South Florida’s Teen Broadway Presents Original Stage Production Of “The Streets We Shared” South Florida Sun Times Jan 21, 2026 The YMCA of South Florida's 8th Annual “Teen Broadway” is proud to present its newest original production – The Streets We Shared, debuting on Saturday, February 21st, 2026. An additional showing is set for Sunday, February 22nd, 2026 with both performances running from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Victory Black Box Theatre, in the L.A. Lee YMCA/Mizell Community Center, 1409 Northwest 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311. The Streets We Shared offers audiences a powerful and authentic glimpse into how today’s youth – the future world leaders – experience and interpret a rapidly changing society. As technological advancements, such as the growing presence of artificial intelligence, continue to reshape daily life, young people often navigate uncertainty, shifting communities and complex social realities in ways that are rarely centered or heard. This year’s production intentionally places youth voices at the forefront, exploring themes of change, identity, community and resilience through their lived experiences. Written, developed and performed by local students, the production reflects how they see the world today and how they envision shaping its future. The Y’s Teen Broadway is a dynamic, youth-centered literacy and arts program designed to strengthen reading, vocabulary, grammar, self-esteem, leadership, career development, mental wellness and essential life skills through creative expression. This year’s production marks the eighth consecutive year of Teen Broadway performances where students from ages five to 15 have the chance to experience what it takes to be part of a full-scale production. “We are thrilled to keep the Teen Broadway program going for another year and give young aspiring performing artists the opportunity to express themselves while experiencing challenges that they might face in real life later on,” said Sharon Hughes, Family & Youth Resource Director for the YMCA of South Florida. “We encourage the community to attend, support and celebrate the voices of our local youth as they share their stories through this impactful theatrical experience.” Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online at: https://Tinyurl.com/TeenBroadway26 . Day-of-performance tickets will also be available for purchase on site at the Victory Black Box Theatre. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For additional information on sponsorships, please contact Sharon Hughes at: shughes@ymcasouthflorida.org . Or: (561) 873-3774. For more information about the Y, visit: www.ymcasouthflorida.org . About the YMCA of South Florida For more than a century, the YMCA has been woven into the fabric of the South Florida community. As an award-winning nonprofit, the Y is committed to strengthening community through more than 200 programs serving everyone from six months old to 100 years young. Our Family Centers and programs are inclusive, vibrant hubs of community life, offering a diverse array of classes, cutting-edge fitness facilities, life-saving aquatics, exciting community events, unforgettable camps, supportive afterschool care, and holistic health and wellness programming. At the Y, there’s something for everyone. Join the movement by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or YMCASouthFlorida.org. About the Victory Black Box Theatre The Victory Black Box Theatre is a 2,000-Square Foot full-service event space located inside the L.A. Lee YMCA/Mizell Community Center in Fort Lauderdale’s historic Sistrunk neighborhood. This is where some of the greatest performers, including Cannon Ball Adderley, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, Buddy Johnson, Cab Calloway, Count Basie and B.B. King, played to packed houses on barnstorming tours that ran along the East Coast. With a seating capacity of 200, a professional grade audio system and theatrical lighting capabilities, the Theatre has the capability to host parties, performances, company gatherings, graduations and classes, and is available for rent. The name pays homage to the former Victory Theatre, which stood less than a mile from the Y, and operated as early as 1945 when it was the only theatre in Fort Lauderdale where Black patrons were allowed during segregation. For more information on the Victory Black Box Theatre, please visit: www.ymcasouthflorida.org/victorybbt/ - Or email: VictoryBBT@ymcasouthflorida.org . Previous Next

Radio Personality That Survived A Massive Brain Aneurysm Now Using Her Voice To Help Others Aventura Digest Nov 20, 2025 “Jada Kiss” May Have Sounded Like The Life-Of-The-Party On 103.5 FM The Beat’s Nighttime Radio Show, But The Real-Life Jada Williams Was Scared. A Single Mother With Two Kids, She Had Crippling Headaches Every Day For Three Months And Was Losing The Ability To Do The Job She Had Done For The Past Four Years. “My brain was hurting, I was nauseous and I could barely see out of one eye,” said Williams, the Producer of DJ Bulletproof’s show/podcast. “I couldn’t keep up with the pace of live radio and was barely making it through my shifts.” Given her history of migraine headaches, it would have been reasonable to assume Williams’ issues stemmed from that, but the 42-year-old, North Miami resident knew this was a different kind of pain. At her wit’s end, she went to the ER at Memorial Hospital Pembroke where a CT scan revealed a giant brain Aneurysm, the type that when it ruptures kills nearly 50% of its victims. Among the half that manage to survive the brain bleed, nearly 70% are left with cognitive deficits that affect memory, attention, reasoning, problem-solving and decision-making. “Jada had one of the largest Aneurysms I’ve ever seen,” said Dr. Brijesh P. Mehta, Chief of Adult & Pediatric Neurointerventional Surgery and Medical Director of the Comprehensive Stroke Program at Memorial Healthcare System. “We performed a minimally-invasive endovascular procedure in the cath lab to cut off blood supply to the Aneurysm using a flow diverting device and coils.” Memorial Neuroscience Institute Neurointerventionalists care for more than 200 brain aneurysm patients each year, making it one of the largest treatment centers in South Florida. One in every 50 people has the potentially deadly condition, with High Blood Pressure, smoking and family history being the most significant contributors to Brain Aneurysm formation. Worsening headaches, nausea, vomiting, and neck stiffness are the most common symptoms. While both her grandfather and his sister died from Brain Aneurysms, Williams is now about four months post procedure and on the road to a full recovery. She is once again driving, taking care of her children, ages 11 and 14, and contributing to the radio show. But she’s also being cautious to avoid setbacks, with the memories of 10 days of bed rest and six weeks without leaving her home too fresh to forget. What was once, according to Dr. Mehta, “a ticking time bomb,” is now a new lease on life for Jada Williams. A Brain Aneurysm that could have easily ruptured never did and Williams believes that means she was meant to serve a bigger purpose. “I hope I can be an example to others,” she said. “Your lifestyle matters and you don’t have to be a superwoman. Listen to your body, advocate for yourself and if you think something isn’t right, get it checked before another day goes by.” Memorial Neuroscience Institute: www.mhs.net/services/neuroscience which offers advanced diagnoses, comprehensive treatment, compassionate care, and rehabilitation for complex neurological conditions. Few centers can match the depth of its neurological expertise or the wide range of available services. Part of the Memorial Healthcare System and recognized for its quality and safety, the Comprehensive Stroke Program treats conditions of the Brain that include Acute Strokes, Vascular Malformations, Carotid Stenosis and Arteriovenous Fistulas of the Spine. To learn more about the complete continuum of Neurological Care Memorial provides, visit: www.mhs.net/services/neuroscience . Jada Williams with Dr. Brijesh Mehta “Jada had one of the largest Aneurysms I’ve ever seen,” said Dr. Brijesh P. Mehta Previous Next

Opening Coconuts with the Gardener and my Brother Thu Mar 07 2024 17:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

UnderPark Project: Let’s Build a New Park Together www.sibfl.net October 20, 2022 Share The City Of Sunny Isles Beach is in the early stages of planning to build a new park underneath and adjacent to the William Lehman Causeway. They are working with the talented professionals who are building The Underline from Brickell to Dadeland underneath Metrorail. City residents have a dire need for more team sports and other recreational facilities and the Lehman Causeway underpass and adjacent City-Owned Land present an opportunity to provide these amenities to the community. The City is still in the early planning phase for this new park. A critically important component of conceptualizing the final plan is to ensure robust and inclusive input from Sunny Isles Beach residents. The City recently sent out a survey asking residents’ opinions about what additional recreational facilities "you would want in the city." If you’re are a Sunny Isles Beach resident and you have not already done so, please take a moment to complete the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RecreationNeeds With the possibility of New Recreation Areas being added around the City, Officials want to know what you would like to see in these spaces. Currently, The City of Sunny Isles Beach maintains the following Recreation Spaces and Amenities: • Heritage Park - Splash Pad, Playgrounds, Dog Area, Picnic Tables, Memorial Wall • Golden Shores Park - Playground, Picnic Table, Benches • Pelican Community Park - Baseball Field, Indoor Basketball Court, Playground, Picnic Tables, Community Center with Classrooms, Fitness Center • Senator Gwen Margolis Park - Soccer Field, Dog Park, Walking Path, Picnic Tables, Playground, Botanical Garden • Samson Oceanfront Park - Playground, Benches, Walking Path, Pavilion, Volleyball Courts on the Beach, Showers • Town Center Park - Fitness Equipment, Walking Path, Gazebo, Benches, Restrooms, Playground • Gateway Park - Performing Arts Stage, Butterfly Garden, Playground, Picnic Tables & Benches, Interactive Water Feature, Community Gathering Space • Gateway Center - 3,600 Square Foot Ballroom, Social Alley with Seating and Game Tables, Classroom, Fitness Room, Catering Kitchen • Newport Fishing Pier - Fishing Pier, Restaurant, Showers • Intracoastal Parks - Playground, Walking Path, Benches, Picnic Tables The Cost Sunny Isles Beach can pay for this park outright because of record Reserves and solid finances, but they will be seeking Grants and Sponsorships to offset costs. Additionally, this new park will not prevent the City from building other recreational and cultural facilities or upgrading existing ones. They Want Your Input In September, they held an Informal Town Hall/Charrette Design Meeting to collect feedback from residents. At the first Meeting, many thoughtful questions were asked and creative ideas were shared. They kept the momentum going with a second Town Hall Meeting October 6th at the proposed site for the UnderPark, the William Lehman Causeway lot. To continue the effort to receive input, the City has created an online portal to submit information. City officials would like to know what you would like to see in this new park. Share your comments and input via the submission form: https://sunnyislesfl.seamlessdocs.com/f/UnderPark < Previous News Next News >

Get A Free Toilet Installed - A New Initiative With Broward Water Partnership And Minority Builders Coalition Thu Nov 14 2024 17:45:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

January At The Museum Of Discovery And Science Brings Big Builds, Space Adventures And Hands-On Family Fun South Florida Sun Times Jan 7, 2026 This Month, The Museum Of Discovery And Science (MODS) Invites Families To Start The Year With Hands-On Science, Creative Construction And Exciting Space-Themed Adventures. From LEGO®-Inspired Building Challenges And Galactic Competition To Sensory-Friendly Programming And The Debut Of Two High-Energy Traveling Exhibits, MODS Offers A Month Packed With Discovery, Curiosity, Creativity And Learning Through Play For Guests Of All Ages. “At MODS, we believe play is a powerful way to learn,” said Joseph P. Cox, President and CEO of MODS. “From building bold ideas and exploring space to interactive exhibits and inclusive programs, January offers families meaningful opportunities to move, think and discover together through hands-on science, creative construction and immersive experiences.” Master Builder Weekends in January Weekends in January • Saturdays - 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Sundays - 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Families can explore engineering, creativity and problem-solving during Master Builder Weekends at MODS. Guests can take on LEGO® brick building challenges, join a LEGO® Coding Dance Party and participate in Build the Change activities that encourage imaginative problem solving. MODS also will celebrate International LEGO® Day on Wednesday, January 28th, 2026. Included with Museum admission. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/masterbuilderweekends . Junior Galaxy Explorer Competition Saturday, January 10th. 2026 • 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Young builders ages 6–12 are invited to bring a custom-built LEGO® spacecraft from home or build one on-site at MODS to take part in the Junior Galaxy Explorer search. The winning builder will represent MODS at the grand opening of LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s newest attraction and receive exclusive prizes, including a family hotel stay. Included with Museum admission. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/juniorgalaxycompetition Sensory-Friendly Sunday Morning: Wild Rescue Sunday, January 25th, 2026 • 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Enjoy early access to MODS during a sensory-friendly morning with adjusted lighting, softer sound and hands-on activities, followed by a modified IMAX® documentary in a welcoming, judgment-free environment. Wild Rescue takes guests behind the scenes with the teams helping injured and orphaned animals heal and return to the wild, celebrating incredible comebacks and second chances. Free admission. To register, please visit: https://mods.org/sensorysunday Night in the Everglades Scout Overnight Saturday, January 10th, 2026 – Sunday, January 11th, 2026 • 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 a.m. Scouting America and Girl Scouts troops can spend the night at MODS while exploring the science and wildlife of the Everglades through interactive activities and badge-aligned learning experiences. Cost is $60 per participant with a minimum of 50 participants. For more information and to register, please visit: https://mods.org/scout-programs . Save Our Seas Distinguished Speaker Series Thursday, January 15th, 2026 • 6:00 p.m. Join MODS for a free virtual discussion on Sea Turtle Conservation and Habitat Protection led by the Turtle Action Group of Seychelles. Sponsored by the Save Our Seas Foundation, this program features Jeanne A. Mortimer, a biology and conservation researcher sharing insights from decades of fieldwork and community-based, science-driven efforts. To register, please visit: https://mods.org/saveourseas . Eco Defenders Scouting America Workshop Saturday, January 17th, 2026 • 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Scouts in Lions, Tigers and Wolves levels explore environmental science and conservation through hands-on activities that support official Scouting America badge requirements. Pricing is $30 per Member scout and $45 per Non-Member scout. Accompanying adults are free for Members and $5 for Non-Members. For more information and to register, please visit: https://mods.org/scout-programs . Traveling Exhibits Opening January Opens Friday, January 23rd, 2026 and Friday, January 30th, 2026 MODS debuts two must-see traveling exhibits that bring movement, play and discovery to the forefront. Game On: Adventure in Every Move opens Friday, January 23rd, 2026 transforming the Museum into an action-packed play zone where guests tackle creative challenges, test strategies and explore the power of teamwork. Opening Friday, January 30th, 2026 HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever delivers a fast-paced, hands-on experience that puts guests in the game to test reaction time, measure slap shot power and uncover the science, engineering and technology behind one of the world’s fastest sports. Both exhibits are presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, with additional support from Finally, Florida Prepaid College Savings Plans, the Florida Panthers and the Shannon and Johnathan Robertson Charitable Fund. Included with Museum admission. For more information, visit: https://mods.org/gameon - And at: https://mods.org/hockey . About the Museum of Discovery and Science Opened in 1977 as the Discovery Center, today the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) is at the forefront of science education, innovation and exploration. MODS connects people to inspiring science, providing STEM education and cultural experiences for 450,000+ visitors annually in the 150,000 Square Foot facility. MODS is a 501 (c)(3) Non-Profit Organization that has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) for three decades. MODS has added to that distinction by being named Broward’s Hub for Resilience Education by the Board of the Community Foundation of Broward, selected by the LEGO Foundation as one of only 21 museums nationwide to join the Playful Learning Museum Network and awarded the prestigious 2023 IMLS National Medal for Museum Service. The Museum welcomes visitors from all walks of life. The Museum hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. MODS is located downtown at 401 Southwest Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information about the Museum, please visit: https://mods.org . Or call: (954) 467-MODS. Call: (954) 467-6637. Like us or follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/modsftl X (formerly Twitter): www.x.com/modsftl Instagram: www.instagram.com/modsftl Previous Next

Dock Dreams - 3 Florida Lakefront Locations Are Luring Second-Home Buyers Nationwide Aventura Digest Jul 18, 2025 There’s Something Timeless About The Allure Of A Lakefront Home In Summer. For Many People, It’s The Ultimate Escape - Where Mornings Start With Coffee On The Dock And Days End In Golden-Hour Swims. Lakefront Homes Have Long Ranked Among The Most Desirable Types Of Second Properties In North America - And The Numbers Back It Up - Waterfront Properties Can Command A 36% Price Premium On Average, According To Zillow. Calgary Homes, a real estate platform, carried out a survey of 3,007 Americans and Canadians to identify the most sought-after lakefront real estate in North America. The top 10 were as follows: #1. Big Bear Lake, California Perched in the San Bernardino Mountains and just a few hours from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake is a four-season favorite. Neighborhoods like Boulder Bay offer classic A-frames and modern homes, many with easy access to trails, town, and lakefront views. The blend of walkability and alpine charm makes it a consistent pick for second-home buyers. #2. Lake Tahoe, California Lake Tahoe is a year-round dream with crystal-clear water and a mix of forest hideaways and luxury retreats. On the California side, places like Carnelian Bay and Rubicon Bay offer direct water access, with homes often passed down for generations. Whether it’s a sleek modern cabin or a grand lakefront lodge, property here is scarce and moves quickly — Tahoe isn’t just seasonal, it’s a lifestyle. #3. Shasta Lake, California As one of California’s largest reservoirs, Shasta Lake has a wilder, more remote feel. Properties here often sit above the shoreline with sweeping views of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Because of water level fluctuations, many homes are built with adaptable features like hillside paths and extended docks. It’s ideal for those who want space, solitude, and serious boating access. #4. Tracadie Bay, Prince Edward Island Though tidal, Tracadie Bay feels like a lake - calm, scenic, and low-traffic. Shoreline homes around Brackley and Blooming Point offer privacy, beach views, and quick access to Charlottetown. Most are custom-built with sunrooms and private water access. It’s especially popular among seasonal buyers who want natural beauty with city proximity. #5. Lake Weir, Florida In Marion County, Lake Weir stands out for its sandy beaches and low-key atmosphere. Many homes come with large lots, private docks, and backyard boat access. It’s a peaceful choice for full-time living, close enough to Ocala and The Villages without feeling overdeveloped or crowded. 2 more of the nations' most sought after lakefront real estate locations are in Florida: #17. Lake Santa Fe Spring-fed and known for its stable water levels, Lake Santa Fe has a reputation as one of north-central Florida’s hidden gems. It draws both seasonal and year-round residents, many of whom live in older homes shaded by oak trees with classic boathouses. The area’s focus is simple: boating, paddleboarding, and enjoying life outdoors - without the tourist traffic. #43. Lake Dora Lake Dora offers a walkable waterfront lifestyle in the heart of Mount Dora, a town known for its historic charm and marina access. Homes range from century-old estates to newer builds with boat slips, all tied together by a strong sense of community. It’s not a resort town - it’s a place where people put down roots and enjoy lake life year-round. “Lakefront homes have a unique way of combining investment potential with emotional appeal,” says a spokesperson from Calgary Homes. “What we’re seeing is that buyers aren’t just chasing scenery - they’re looking for places that support a slower, more connected lifestyle. Whether it’s for seasonal use or future retirement, these properties offer a blend of long-term value and personal meaning that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.” Previous Next

How to Say Buh-Bye to 'Ozempic Face' By BPT August 23, 2024 Share Are you one of the many Americans who has benefited from losing weight quickly due to GLP-1 medications? If so, you're probably feeling grateful for the improved health and appearance these groundbreaking medications have provided - but less so for the loose, sagging skin that may be left behind. You're not alone - the term "Ozempic face" has been trending for a reason, as many people who are taking these medications are also seeing this less-than-ideal side effect along with their desired weight loss. Why does your skin have so much trouble bouncing back? Starting as early as your 20s, the collagen within the middle layer of your skin begins to diminish, resulting in your skin becoming less and less elastic as you get older. "When you experience rapid weight loss, it can be hard for your skin to bounce back, resulting in the loose or sagging skin look that is so disappointing for many of my patients," said Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi, Capital Laser & Skin Care. "This kind of problem can also be seen in the upper arms, especially for women who have a genetic predisposition to gain weight there." A new, non-invasive solution If all of this sounds familiar to you, you'll be glad to know there is a new, award-winning, in-office and non-invasive ultrasound treatment designed specifically to address this problem. The treatment is called Sofwave™, and it stimulates the skin's collagen, Elastin and Hyaluronic Acid using SUPERB™ Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology to improve fine lines and wrinkles, lift the eyebrows, under the chin and neck area. Sofwave™ has been FDA-cleared to: • Reduce fine lines and wrinkles • Lift the eyebrow • Lift lax skin under the chin and along the jawline • Lift neck tissue • Improve skin laxity on the upper arms • Reduce the appearance of cellulite • Improve acne scars How does it work? The SUPERB™ Technology heats the dermis at the right temperature, triggering the healing response that increases both Collagen and Elastin in the skin, which is necessary to maintain volume. Best yet, this cutting-edge technology works on any skin type or skin tone, for all ages. After just one 45-minute in-office treatment, patients show significant improvement in 12 weeks. The procedure is safe and comfortable, requiring only topical anesthetic to numb the skin. "Some people may want to schedule an additional treatment to see even better results," said Tanzi. "Your dermatologist may recommend one treatment every 18-24 months to help you maintain your youthful appearance." "Sofwave is a terrific option for anyone, at any age, who wants to build-up collagen and elastin in the skin and improve their skin health and firmness," said Atlanta Plastic Surgeon Dr. Gabriele Miotto. "It can help patients with issues that have become so common with rapid weight loss due to GLP-1 medications, or patients who want to be proactive in boosting or improving their skin health." Additional treatments to tone your abs, thighs and buttocks If you're looking to improve other areas of your body as well, you may want to ask your dermatologist about Pure Impact™, an Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) device that uses electric pulses transmitted by electrodes to elicit muscle contraction and stimulate nerve fibers by means of electrical pulses transmitted by electrodes. Pure Impact™ is FDA-cleared to improve abdominal tone, strengthen abdominal muscles, develop a firmer abdomen, strengthen, tone and firm buttocks and thighs. Learn more about how you can continue to maximize the strides you've made so far, and keep boosting your confidence along the way, at: www.Sofwave.com < Previous News Next News >

The 2025 Hero-Fest Veteran Stand-Down South Florida Sun Times Sep 10, 2025 United Way Broward’s MISSION UNITED, In Collaboration With Nova Southeastern University’s Veteran's Health Clinic And Proudly Sponsored By Fifth Third Bank, Presents The Hero-Fest Veteran Stand Down — A Dynamic Resource Fair For Veterans And Military Families. Attendees Will Have Access To Health And Wellness Screenings, Legal And Benefits Assistance, Housing Support, Employment Services, Mini Workshops, Complimentary Lunch, Giveaways And More. Open to all Veterans and their families, Hero-Fest Veteran Stand-Down offers resources, support, and a chance to connect with local organizations and fellow service members in a community-focused, empowering environment. Hero-Fest Veteran Stand-Down is designed to provide Veterans with direct access to services including comprehensive health/wellness consultations, expert legal and benefits guidance, a wealth of community resources, personal care services, and a variety of education and employment opportunities. The event is dedicated to honoring the service of our heroes, creating opportunities for them to thrive post-service, and fostering a strong sense of community among Veterans and their families. Community partners and businesses also have an opportunity to showcase services, volunteer, connect with Veterans, and contribute to: raffles/giveaways. When: Saturday, September 20th, 2025 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Participant check-in will begin at 11:30 a.m. Attendees are encouraged to arrive promptly to ensure a seamless start to the event. Doors will open to the public from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.) Where: Carl DeSantis Building – Nova Southeastern University 3050 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33314 About United Way Broward United Way Broward mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. True to our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our community, United Way is there. For more than 85 years, United Way Broward has brought a comprehensive approach to every challenge, actively listening and responding to local needs. Our reach across the communities in Broward County means we can share innovations and scale impact to improve lives in collaboration with our donors, volunteers, corporate and agency partners. From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, we’re working towards a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential. To learn more, visit: https://UnitedWayBroward.org About United Way Broward's MISSION UNITED MISSION UNITED is a critical program supporting US Military service members, Veterans and their families in Broward County by helping them acclimate to civilian life. Key focus areas include employment services, education, health, legal assistance, financial stability and housing support. Through MISSION UNITED, United Way Broward is aligning existing services and creating solutions where there are gaps in support. For more information about MISSION UNITED, please call: (954) 4-UNITED. Call: (954) 462-4850. Or visit: www.MISSIONUNITEDbroward.org , Facebook or Twitter. For more information, please contact: Sabrina Sweet at: SSweet@UnitedWayBroward.org . Or visit: www.MissionUnitedBroward.org . Previous Next

“Broadway With Heart” A New Musical Celebration March 18, 2022 Share BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! After their last sold-out show, beloved husband and wife, song and dance team Michael Kessler & Melinda Jackson return to the beautiful Aventura Arts & Cultural Center with “Broadway With Heart,” a funny, optimistic and poignant love story. Did you ever dream of reliving your favorite moments from every Broadway show you’ve ever seen? Did you ever imagine holding your beloved in your arms & swirling around the stage, or staring into your darling’s eyes while singing passionate love songs by Broadway’s legendary composers? Well, that’s what happens in “Broadway With Heart” at South Florida’s unique gem, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center on Saturday, March 26th, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. In this new musical celebration of the best of Broadway, M&M sing and dance their way through a history of classic numbers from hit Broadway shows like KISS ME KATE, PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, CHICAGO, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, HAIR and many more, while revealing personal, backstage stories of their work and experiences with some of the giants of musical theater like famed directors: Bob Fosse and Joe Layton. Actor, Writer And Lyricist: Jim Rado. Native New Yorkers, Jackson and Kessler, affectionately known as M&M, share more than 30 years of producing, directing, writing, composing, choreographing and performing internationally from ballet to Broadway, Radio City Music Hall, the Las Vegas Strip, to theaters and opera houses worldwide. In addition to decades of international tours of their original shows, the couple have performed in Tommy Tune’s Broadway show, “Grand Hotel,’ choreographed the Winter Olympics, the U.S. Pro Gymnastics tour, directed and choreographed the 30th Anniversary tour of the hit rock musical “Hair” and many more. Their career is a show business fairy tale that began in a professional ballet class in New York City. Melinda remembers, “Michael showed up in ballet class in boxing trunks, wristbands and basketball socks, walking on his hands with a bevy of females around him. We were so enchanted with one another, that Maggie Black, our teacher, would separate us at the ballet barre. Once we began working together, singing, dancing and acting, we realized what a perfect fit we were and decided that was what we wanted to do exclusively.” Michael adds, “We just clicked from the first moment we started to dance together. Everything flowed. The hardest part of choreographing for Melinda was that everything she did looked so beautiful, it was hard to choose what to keep in and what to discard. It’s a happy problem I’ve gotten used to over time. As legendary director Joe Layton told us at Radio City Music Hall, “This girl! Even when it’s wrong it’s right!” In 35 years of highs and lows, successes and failures, injuries, triumphs and heartaches, we’ve spent 5 nights apart and eaten about 10 meals apart,” says Kessler. “It may not be for everyone, but we love being together pretty much all the time. We’ve traveled the world together doing what we love. It’s the most fun we can have, so let’s have it!” says Jackson. Melinda is proud to be the great-granddaughter of U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt. Bully! Michael is proud to be the great-grandson of Russian Cantor Yacov Sanzofsky. Shalom! Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit M&M’s nonprofit M&M American Dance Theatre Works dedicated to promoting artistic collaboration, educational, cultural enrichment through exposure, mentorship and involvement in musical dance theater. We are offering a fabulous promotion in association with Aventura favorite, 800 Degrees Woodfired Kitchen, 2956 Northwest 199th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. The restaurant, owned by local heroes, Miami Heat Stars Dwayne Wade and Udonis Haslem, is offering 20% off your entire bill for pre or post theater dinner with your ticket stub. Tickets are $40, $50 and $60. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: aventuracenter.org. By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307.
 
The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-square-foot, 330-seat waterfront complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. Join the conversation: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter Facebook: MandMAmericanDanceTheatre Twitter: @michaelmelinda Instagram @m2mdancetheatre #mandmamericandancetheatre < Previous News Next News >