Let's Feed South Florida: Inaugural Gala To Raise Crucial Funds To Fight Food Insecurity August 8, 2024 Share Feeding South Florida – The Leading Hunger-Relief Organization in South Florida – will host its Inaugural Black-Tie Gala, with the theme of Emerald Peacock, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Saturday, November 16th, 2024. The event, presented by Ryder System Inc., will kick off with a Cocktail Reception at 6:00 p.m. followed by a three-course dinner in the Grand Ballroom. South Florida’s top community leaders, philanthropists and influencers will be among the 500 guests who will enjoy dinner, dancing, live entertainment, an engaging program and more to raise crucial funds to fight food insecurity in South Florida. Currently, in South Florida, there are more than 1.2 million food insecure individuals. One in nine individuals in South Florida remain uncertain about where they will get their next meal due to inflation, the strained supply chain, rising fuel prices and increased housing costs among other factors. 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. The Gala will be Co-Chaired by Steve Stowe, Vice President and Executive Director of the Miami HEAT Charitable Fund and Stephanie Wicky, Vice President of Marketing at Ryder Systems, Inc. Celebrated Entertainment Reporter Lisa Petrillo of CBS News Miami will emcee the event. Supporters will also have the opportunity to sponsor a Feeding South Florida family through donations and participate in a silent auction featuring high-end items and exceptional luxury experiences. “We’re excited to host our Inaugural Gala,” says Paco Velez, President & CEO of Feeding South Florida. “We are incredibly grateful for the support of our Co-Chairs Steve Stowe and Stephanie Wicky, our Board Members and our donors who are committed to our mission to end food insecurity in South Florida. The event will help us continue to raise much-needed funds to put food on the table for South Florida families who need it the most.” “Feeding South Florida’s Inaugural Annual Gala promises to be a truly spectacular evening,” adds Wicky. “I’m honored to Co-Chair this event, as we work together to nourish our neighbors in need and make a significant impact. South Florida is an extremely generous community and hosting an evening that will celebrate all the great work that Feeding South Florida has done, while raising awareness and funds for the future impact the organization will continue to make is sure to be a success.” “I am honored to serve as Co-Chair for the Feeding South Florida’s Inaugural Gala,” says Stowe. “I am proud to have worked with this incredible organization that has been making an indelible difference in the lives of so many South Floridians for so many years. We look forward to enjoying an exceptional evening of entertainment, dancing, and dinner while raising crucial funds for Feeding South Florida’s families who are facing food insecurity.” Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is located at 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, Florida 33314. Black-Tie Attire is required. Gala Sponsorships and Underwriting Opportunities are now available. Sponsorships range from $2,500 to $100,000. Individual tickets are available for $650. For more information about sponsorships or underwriting opportunities, please visit: https://e.givesmart.com/events/BJa/ - Or contact Lenai Mejia via email at: lenai@thrivewithcloud9.com . Or via phone at: (754) 432-7074. Extension#: 702. Feeding South Florida Feeding South Florida is a member of the Feeding America Network and is the Leading Hunger-Relief Organization serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe Counties. Providing support for 25 percent of the state’s food insecure population, its mission is 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. Feeding South Florida served more than *1.17 million individuals through Direct-Service Programs and a local network of more than 350 NonProfit and Community Partners. Visit: www.feedingsouthflorida.org . Or call: (954) 518-1818. < Previous News Next News >

Get In The Habit Of Laughing: Slow Burn Theatre Musical Comedy "Sister Act" Hits The Stage This February January 25, 2024 Share Slow Burn Theatre Company presents Sister Act, the divine feel-good musical comedy smash hit, in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts from Saturday, February 3rd through Sunday, February 18th. Based on the hit 1992 film, the musical follows Disco Diva Deloris Van Cartier, who witnesses a murder and is placed in protective custody in the one place the cops think she’ll never be found - a convent. It seems like she’s made a deal with the devil until she begins to make friends with the sisters and starts to shake things up. Featuring original music by Tony and Eight-Time Oscar® Winner Alan Menken (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors) and lyrics by Glenn Slater, this heavenly score is filled with the sounds of Motown, Soul and Disco. In a review of the Broadway production, which was nominated for five Tony Awards including Best Musical, the New York Times reported, “When the wimples start quivering, the pinched mouths break into sunbeam smiles, and the nuns start rocking to raise the Gothic rafters, all’s right in the kingdom of musical comedy at ‘Sister Act.’ Who could resist the vision of a stage full of saintly sisters flaring their gams in unison like the Rockettes, or swiveling their hips, Supremes style, to the silken beat of an R&B tune?” In a cast second to nun, Mandi Jo John makes her Company Debut in the role of Deloris and is joined by Paulette Olivia, Matthew Korinko, Ryan Crout, Darius J. Manuel, Chaz Rose, David L. Murray Jr., Gianfranco Imbert, Natasha Ricketts, Mikayla Cohen, Ellie Pattison and Ashley Rubin. The Production is also blessed with a talented ensemble featuring Amanda Lund, Kristi Rose Mills, Celia Hinds, Jill Lustig, Madeline Dunn, Elizabeth Sackett, Heather Simsay, Ally Rosenblum, Lauren Marie Abraham, Nicolette Quintero, Michael Materdomini, Aaron Atkinson, Joey Rodriguez and Corey Vega. Director Patrick Fitzwater leads a heaven sent creative team and technical team composed of Music Director Wilkie Ferguson, Choreographer Trent Soyster, Scenic Designer Sean McClelland, Lighting Designer Clifford Spulock, Production Stage Manager Matthew Luppino and Assistant Stage Manager Vickie Anderson. Costumes are provided by Costume World Theatrical with costume coordination by Rick Peña. Performance times vary with an open captioned performance generously underwritten by the Amaturo Family Foundation on Sunday, February 11th at 2:00 p.m. in which spoken dialogue scrolls across a digital screen as the action takes place on stage. Based on the Touchstone Pictures Motion Picture, Sister Act was written by Joseph Howard and is based on the book by Cheri Steinkellner and Bill Steinkellner with additional book material by Douglas Carter Beane. Slow Burn Theatre Company’s production of Sister Act is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International. The 2023/2024 Slow Burn Theatre Company Season is presented by American National Bank and continues with The Prom from March 23rd - April 7th and The SpongeBob Musical from June 8th - June 23rd. Major support for the Slow Burn Theatre Company is provided by the Broward County Cultural Division, the Cultural Council and the Broward County Board of County Commissioners and sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Like us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter - And at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at: @BrowardCenter. Subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter - And join the conversation with #BrowardCenter. The Broward Center 2023/2024 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and UHealth University of Miami Health System. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. About The Broward Center For The Performing Arts One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 700 performances each year to more than 700,000 patrons, showcasing a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level and UHealth-University of Miami Health System Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion, waterfront dining at Marti’s New River Bistro and innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. With one of the largest arts-in-education programs in the United States, the Broward Center serves more than 100,000 students annually. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org < Previous News Next News >

Sweeten The Season: Deliciously Creamy Desserts Thu Nov 02 2023 16:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

To Life 6 - Stories & Music Celebrating The Contributions Of Jewish Composers, Artists, And Comedians To Broadway & Hollywood Jewish Connection News Dec 18, 2025 From Arlen And Harburg (“Over The Rainbow”), To Bacharach And David (“Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head”); From Rodgers And Hammerstein (Carousel) To Jerry Herman (La Cage Aux Folles); Or From Stephen Schwartz (Wicked) To Bock And Harnick (Fiddler On The Roof), Jewish Composers And Artists Have Contributed Mightily To The Great American Songbook, To Broadway Musicals, To Pop Music, And To Theatre And The Arts In General. (As Eric Idle And John Du Prez – Non-Jews - So Humorously Recognized And Rhapsodized In Spamalot). To Life 6: Stories & Music Celebrating the Contributions of Jewish Composers, Artists, and Comedians to Broadway & Hollywood will open in Boca Raton’s Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park on Friday, January 16th, 2026 and run through Sunday, February 8th, 2026. “In any great adventure, if you don't want to lose, Victory depends upon the people that you choose. So listen, Arthur, darling, closely to this news. We won't succeed on Broadway if we don't have any Jews.” Once again this popular show will feature amusing anecdotes and fascinating facts about some of America’s most well-known, lauded, and iconic Jewish composers and entertainers who created and performed such musical classics as “I’ll Be Seeing You,” “Get Happy,” “Defying Gravity,” “Some Enchanted Evening,” “What the World Needs Now,” and many more. The production, produced by Hy Juter, and written, directed, and hosted by Shari Upbin will feature top-tier South Florida Actor/Entertainers Kate Delany, Bruno Faria, Shelley Keelor, and Shane Tanner. Aiden Quintana will serve as the production’s Musical Director, and Nicole Roach is the production’s Stage Manager. “What an honor to be the director of all the To Life shows including To Life 6, the longest running come back series in Florida!” Upbin says. “Over the years we have featured some of the most talented Carbonell award-winning entertainers in town and highlighted the musical genius of the finest Jewish composers and lyricists of the 19th and 20th and 21st centuries. Our audiences have been to the Borscht Belt, tasted Egg Creams and looked at the most famous comic books, all stemming from the pens of Jewish artists. At this point we could even present an entire evening of Christmas songs as so many were written by Jewish composers! “To Life 6 honors our Jewish immigrant ancestors from Eastern Europe, who came to America, the 'golden medina' the land of opportunity and freedom!” she continues. “Those immigrants whose music have become the greatest influence of American pop culture Broadway and Hollywood in the world! L'Chaim (To Life)!” To Life 6 will run from Friday, January 16th, 2026 through Sunday, February 8th, 2026 at the Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park. Tickets are $46; group rates (6 or more tickets purchased in one transaction) are $42. Tickets can be purchased online at: https://www.myboca.us/2647/To-Life-6 - Or by phone at: (561) 347-3948. The Willow Theatre is located at 300 South Military Trail, Boca Raton, Florida 33486 in Sugar Sand Park. Previous Next

Splash into Summer at The Beach: Sound Waves & Ocean Waves Will Fill The Air In Fort Lauderdale Fri May 17 2024 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Women’s History Month Celebration - Six New Empowering Leaders To Be Recognized Tonight South Florida Sun Times Mar 26, 2026 The Countdown Is On To History Fort Lauderdale And Galleria Fort Lauderdale’s “Women Trailblazers: Champions Of Change - Broward County” Benefit Reception On 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 26th, 2026 At Galleria Fort Lauderdale, Located At 2414 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. This Year’s Impactful And Inspiring Leaders To Be Honored Are: Mary Adams, Principal Consultant And Owner Of The Employee Relations Group; Monica Cepero, County Administrator At Broward County Government; Genia Duncan Ellis, President And Ceo At Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, Inc.; Kristina Hebert, President And Ceo Of Wards Marine Electric; Suzanne Higgins, Director Of Development At Henderson Behavioral Health And Dara Levan, Author, Public Speaker And Board Member Of Joe Dimaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation/Memorial Foundation. The Women’s History Month Celebration Hosted By Radio Personalities Julie Guy And Tamara Gant, Will Kick Off A Special Photo Exhibit Highlighting These Women Alongside Their Groundbreaking Historical Female Predecessors Who Helped To Pave The Way For Our Community. The Exhibition Celebrating Their Achievements Will Be On Display Through Sunday, April 19th, 2026. “We’re looking forward to our annual tradition of celebrating these modern women - true champions of change - who continue to fearlessly build the foundation for our next generation of community leaders,” said Patricia Zeiler, Executive Director of History Fort Lauderdale. “This year’s role models and achievers have made significant contributions in the fields of human resources, government, journalism, the marine industry, healthcare and community activism. Our great City of Fort Lauderdale has reaped numerous economical and philanthropical benefits from their passionate enthusiasm and desire to help others. We invite the community to join us in celebrating their achievements during Women’s History Month.” Past pioneering women counterparts to be highlighted in the photo exhibition include: Louella Snyder (1875–1969), a Fort Lauderdale resident since 1910 who later Founded and served as President of the Wells-Snyder Paint Company with M.W. Wells serving as Secretary-Treasurer; Virginia Clements (1914–1995), a member of the Junior League, and the first Board Chair of Henderson Behavioral Health who was instrumental in the organization’s establishment along with other roles in civic and cultural organizations; Ellyn Ferguson Walters (1927-2012), a 41-Year-Tenured Teacher for Broward Schools, Major Fundraiser and Executive Chair of the African American Research and Library Center, Founder of the Sistrunk Festival and 1999 Urban League plus Kathleen C. Wright Award-winner; Eva Oliver (1883-1964), First President of the Woman's Club, Chairman of the Port Everglades Naming Committee, Historian, Author, Philanthropist and Suffragist; Anne Kolb (1932-1981), First Elected Woman Chair of the Broward County Commission, Environmentalist, Conservationist (1978 Florida Wildlife Conservationist of the Year) and namesake of the Anne Kolb Nature Center; and Charline Skogsberg (1906-1999), a Broward County pioneer and daughter of Captain Charles Skogsberg, a keeper of the House of Refuge (U.S. Government life-saving service stations for shipwrecked sailors in Florida), a kindergarten teacher, Trinity Lutheran Church organist and Broward Marine at Bahia Mar employee. “Galleria Fort Lauderdale is honored to collaborate with History Fort Lauderdale during Women’s History Month to celebrate female trailblazers in our community,” said Tatiana Juarez, Regional Marketing Director for Galleria Fort Lauderdale. “The six outstanding honorees truly exemplify the spirit of leadership through perseverance, commitment, and a steadfast determination to succeed.” All honorees will become part of History Fort Lauderdale’s permanent exhibition space devoted to telling our stories. Past honorees have included: Rita Case, Burnadette Norris-Weeks, Susan Renneisen, Juliet Roulhac, Arlene Pecora, Laurie Sallarulo, Heather Geronemus, Stephanie Toothaker, Esq., Ramola Motwani, Sebrina María Alfonso, Melanie Dickinson, Kareen Boutros, Jennifer O'Flannery Anderson, and Stacy Ritter. History Fort Lauderdale and Galleria Fort Lauderdale’s “Women Trailblazers: Champions of Change - Broward County” 2026 is sponsored by UKG, Rick Case Automotive Group, BBX Capital, Henderson Behavioral Health, HNTB, City & Shore PRIME Magazine, Gulf Stream Distillery, Dillard’s, P.F. Chang’s, and GPR | Goodman Public Relations. Tickets for the Thursday, March 26th, 2026 recognition and benefit reception honoring today’s leaders are $50 and are available at: bit.ly/HFLWomenTrailblazers2026 . For more information about History Fort Lauderdale and Galleria Fort Lauderdale’s “Women Trailblazers: Champions of Change - Broward County” 2026, or to join this event as a sponsor, call: (954) 463-4431. Or visit: https://historyfortlauderdale.org . Additional information about Galleria Fort Lauderdale is available at: www.facebook.com/GalleriaFtLauderdale . Or: www.galleriamall-fl.com . About Galleria Fort Lauderdale Galleria Fort Lauderdale, recognized as one of South Florida's premier shopping destinations, features a variety of popular dining and retail options. Macy’s, Dillard’s and H&M anchor the center which also is home to Altar’d State, Apple, Banana Republic, Free People and Pandora. The center features a fine roster of dining establishments such as Seasons 52, The Capital Grille and P.F. Chang’s. Powerhouse Gym can also be found at the property. Just steps away from Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous beach, it is minutes from the airport, port, downtown, hotels and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention Center with easy access from Sunrise Boulevard, U.S. Highway 1 (Federal Highway), Interstate 95, Interstate 595, and U.S. Highway A1A (Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard). Located at 2414 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 it is open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday and 12:00 p.m. Noon to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday. Restaurants and anchors enjoy varied hours. More information is available by calling: (954) 564-1015. Or by visiting: www.galleriamall-fl.com . Previous Next

Attention Hollywood Residents: Annual Waterline Flushing to Begin, Along With Truck-Mounted Mosquito Spraying July 7, 2022 Share The City of Hollywood Department of Public Utilities will begin its Annual Free Chlorine Line Flushing Program on Monday, July 11th, 2022. The Free Chlorine Portion of this Program will end on Monday, August 15th, 2022. The Water Distribution System Line Flushing may continue across the City for an additional two weeks to achieve Optimal System Maintenance through Thursday, August 25th, 2022 if necessary. The Annual Flushing Program is used to help rid the Water Distribution Pipelines of any Accumulated Sediments. The Hydrant Flushing may temporarily cause Cloudy or Discolored Water, which should settle and clear in a few hours after flushing. The cloudiness is due to the Sediments in the Pipelines and it is not Harmful or Hazardous. Typically, Flushing will take place in the evening hours between 9:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. when the demand for Water is low. During the Water Line Flushing Period, the Water Treatment Plant will temporarily change its Method of Disinfection from Chloramines to Free Chlorination. Residents may notice a change in the taste and odor of the Water during this time. The City will discontinue Free Chlorination as of Monday, August 15th, 2022. Owners and Managers of Businesses with Fish and Shellfish Holding Tanks and users of Kidney Dialysis Machines are advised that Regular Methods for Testing and Removing Free Chlorine will not be effective during the remainder of the Flushing Period. It will be necessary to Test and Adjust for Chloramines after Monday, August 15th, 2022. For questions, Please Call The City of Hollywood’s Water Quality Department At: (954) 967-4230 Option#: 2. Or Call the Water Treatment Plant At: (954) 967-4230. Ask for Luis Montoya, Public Utilities Manager or Jorge Marin, Water Treatment Plant Superintendent. Mosquito Spraying Due to the unusual amount of rain recently, the Broward County Mosquito Control Section is Spraying Larvicide to reduce the development of Mosquitoes, such as the Aedes Aegypti, a known Disease-Transmitting Mosquito and Aggressive Biter. Larvicide kills Mosquito Larvae before they can become Flying, Biting Adults. Truck-Mounted Sprayers are Applying Larvicide between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., weather permitting, in areas of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Dania Beach and Broward Municipal Services District. The Larvicide being used is VectoBac WDG. This Product is not Harmful to Humans, Pets, Bees, Aquatic Habitats or Environmentally Sensitive Areas. The Active Ingredient is Bacillus Thuringiensis Israelensis (Bti, Strain AM6552), a Naturally Occurring, Biodegradable Bacterial Mosquito Larvicide. It is certified by the Organic Materials Review Institute and is Registered for Use by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. In addition, VectoBac WDG has been reviewed by the World Health Organization and is listed as a Recommended Formulation for the Control of Mosquito Larvae. The Broward County Mosquito Control Section continues to work closely with the Florida Department of Health and Code Enforcement Partners in Broward's 31 Municipalities to Reduce the Population of Mosquitoes and their Habitats. Residents and Business Owners are encouraged to Reduce Potential Mosquito Breeding Habitats by Regularly Surveying their Property to Remove any Standing Water found in buckets, tires, planters, birdbaths and fountains. By Reducing the number of Mosquito Breeding Habitats, Residents will Reduce the number of Adult Mosquitoes that could Transmit Diseases. Residents Experiencing Mosquito Problems can Request Service by Calling: 311. Or by Completing the On-Line Mosquito Service Request Form At: https://www.broward.org/Mosquito/Pages/MosquitoServiceRequest.aspx < Previous News Next News >

Short-Term Rentals In Florida - What You Should Know Thu Aug 03 2023 16:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Celebrate The 145th Birthday Of Pioneering Educator And Philanthropist Ivy Stranahan With Special Tea Event At History Fort Lauderdale South Florida Sun Times Feb 19, 2026 History Fort Lauderdale, Invites The Community To Celebrate The Life And Legacy Of Pioneering Educator, Philanthropist And Founder Ivy Stranahan During Its Ivy Stranahan Birthday Tea At Noon On Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 In The Historic New River Inn. The Tea Event Commemorates What Would Have Been Ivy Stranahan’s 145th Birthday And Honors Her Lasting Contributions To Education, Preservation, And The Cultural Foundation Of Fort Lauderdale. Guests Will Enjoy An Elegant Afternoon Of Tea, Crumpets And Light Bites In One Of The City’s Most Iconic Historic Landmarks With Special Guest Mary Cromartie Morris. “At age 19, Ivy Julia Cromartie Stranahan became our city’s first teacher and matriarch,” said Patricia Zeiler, Executive Director of History Fort Lauderdale. “This birthday lunch is a beautiful tribute and celebration of life for a woman who is revered as Fort Lauderdale’s first humanitarian, ecologist and suffragist.” As an outspoken advocate for the Seminole Tribe, Stranahan taught them English, was responsible for building their first school and instilled practical skills such as how to use a sewing machine. Her humanitarian efforts eventually helped the Seminoles to set themselves up as a business, allowing them to organize themselves as the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. in 1957. In 1911, she helped to found and initially lead the Fort Lauderdale Woman's Club. In 1916, Stranahan served as the first president of the Women’s Suffrage Association of Florida and later founded the local Audubon Society and was active in the Fort Lauderdale Garden Club continuing to oppose the growing commercialization of her beloved city. She organized the first group of Camp Fire Girls in the city and was a member of the exclusive 1919 Study Club. She is credited with founding the first Broward Red Cross Chapter in 1918 and was treasurer for Provident Hospital which served the Black community before Broward General was integrated. She was also a founder of the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society in 1962. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to view a curated selection of objects and artifacts from the Stranahan Collection, including photographs, personal papers and letters, ledgers, clothing and accessories, books, and ephemera donated by Ivy Stranahan to History Fort Lauderdale. The display offers a unique and intimate glimpse into her life, work, and enduring legacy. Mary Cromartie Morris, Ivy Stranahan’s niece, will provide attendees with a meaningful family connection to the woman whose influence continues to shape the Fort Lauderdale community. In honor of Ivy Stranahan’s birthday, all gifts made through February 24, 2026, will be matched, doubling the impact of donations in support of History Fort Lauderdale’s mission to preserve and share the stories that define the city’s past, present, and future. History Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of engaging multicultural experiences throughout the year. It seeks to bring awareness to the community through both traveling exhibits and multiple permanent displays including “Women Trailblazers,” “Fort Lauderdale – the Early Years,” “Roots of Resilience: The Journey of Black Broward,” “From Dugouts to Dream Yachts: The Story of Boatbuilding Along the New River,” “Seminole Arts & Culture,” “New River Archaeology,” “Viva Fort Lauderdale: Celebrating Hispanic Art & Culture,” “The Growth and History of the Broward County Sheriff’s Office,” and “Take PRIDE, a Retrospective on LGBTQ Life in South Florida.” History Fort Lauderdale is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with docent-guided tours offered daily at 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. Group walking tours are available upon special request. Admission is $15 for adults; $12 for seniors; and $7 for students (through age 22 with a valid student ID). Admission is free for members, military personnel, and children aged six and under. Tickets are available online at HistoryFortLauderdaleTickets. Tickets for the Ivy Stranahan Birthday Tea are $125 each and include a Sustainer Individual Membership to History Fort Lauderdale with free entrance to the 1905 New River Inn Museum, free entrance to special exhibit opening and programming events, four free museum guest passes, a 10% Museum Store discount, an annual Southeastern Reciprocal Membership and a North American Reciprocal Membership for family (includes free admission to hundreds of museums nationwide). Attendance is limited. RSVP at: bit.ly/IvyBirthdayTea2026 - Or contact Patricia Zeiler at: pzeiler@flhc.org . Or: (954) 463-4431. For more information about History Fort Lauderdale, call (954) 463-4431 or visit historyfortlauderdale.org . About History Fort Lauderdale Since 1962, History Fort Lauderdale has been committed to preserving our collective heritage, promoting historical literacy, and fostering a sense of pride and stewardship for the vibrant tapestry of our region’s history. Through dynamic exhibitions, engaging educational programs, and meaningful community initiatives, we strive to connect individuals of all ages and backgrounds with the stories, artifacts, and experiences that shape our shared past, present, and future. Guests to Fort Lauderdale are invited to explore the city’s rich past that is housed in historic buildings on a lushly landscaped campus - the History Museum of Fort Lauderdale situated in the 1905 New River Inn, the 1907 Pioneer House Museum, the 1899 Ivy Cromartie Schoolhouse Museum and the Hoch Research Library, South Florida’s foremost history center housing print resources and newspapers from 1910 - present plus 400,000 archival photos, 2,500 maps and 5,000 architectural blueprints. History Fort Lauderdale is located at 231 SW Second Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets are available online at HistoryFortLauderdaleTickets. History Fort Lauderdale is a nonprofit agency supported by memberships, grants and charitable contributions. For more information, call (954) 463-4431. Or visit: https://historyfortlauderdale.org . Follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ftlhistory , on Instagram @ftlhistory and on Twitter @FTLHistory. Subscribe to us on YouTube at: www.youtube.com/user/FTLhistory . Enjoy Afternoon Tea, Light Bites, Stories and View Curated Artifacts from the Stranahan Collection with Special Guest Mary Cromartie Morris. Previous Next

Aventura Branch Library Happenings - AARP's Senior Planet Tech Thursdays, Tai Chi, e-Device And Much More Aventura Digest Apr 24, 2025 The Aventura Branch Library Has A Wide Variety Of On-line And In-Person Events. There Will Be Furry Tales, Parkinson's Support Group, e-Device Advice And Much More. Some Events May Require You To RSVP, So, Please Go On-Line To Register At: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura - Or For More Information Prior To Attending The Event, Call: (305) 931-5512. Tai Chi: Thursday, April 24th, 2025 - 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Enjoy the benefits of this ancient Chinese practice that includes breathing techniques, posture correction and gentle, fluid movements. Led by Certified Instructor Laura Flagel. Please wear sneakers and comfortable clothing. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 12 years of age and up. AARP's Senior Planet Tech Thursdays - Managing Your Privacy: Thursday, April 24th, 2025 - 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Attend classes designed to empower older adults with the skills to master technology, wellness and lifelong learning. Whether you're looking to navigate the digital world, improve your health or connect with others in your community, our knowledgeable instructors are here to guide you. Presented by AARP's Senior Planet. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or lefrakp@mdpls.org . 55 years of age and up. LEGO At The Library: Thursday, April 24th, 2025 - 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Bring your creativity and have fun building with LEGO® blocks! Adult supervision recommended for younger children. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: email lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 12 years old. e-Device Advice: Thursday, April 24th, 2025 - 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Need help with your electronic device? Instructors from Generation Technology will be available to assist you. Please bring your device for hands-on learning. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Celebrate International Dark Sky Week: Thursday, April 24th, 2025 - 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Enjoy the beauty of the night sky! Use telescopes to take a closer look at the stars, engage with a space science expert and listen to stories. Weather permitting. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . All ages. Parkinson's Support Group: Friday, April 25th, 2025 - 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. This one-hour support group is designed for those suffering with Parkinson's Disease and their loved ones. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Homework Help And Tutoring: Saturday, April 26th, 2025 - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Certified teachers meet with small groups of students in one-hour sessions to provide Homework Help and Tutoring in Reading, Math and Science. Students are encouraged to bring Homework Material or School Assignments for assistance in specific subject areas. This free service is available to all students in grades K-12. For more information, contact: tutoring@mdpls.org . Call: (305) 375-1413. Or visit: www.mdpls.org/tutor . Funded in part by The Children's Trust. Applause For Words - A Workshop For Writers: Saturday, April 26th, 2025 - 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. This monthly workshop is for anyone interested in writing fiction or non-fiction with the hope of one day publishing their work! Facilitated by author Elaine B. Johnson, each session will provide a safe and fun environment for participants to learn about the process of becoming a successful writer. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Furry Tales: Saturday, April 26th, 2025 - 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Read your favorite stories alongside a friendly dog! Help your child improve their literacy skills and boost confidence by reading to a therapy dog. Bring your own book or choose from the library's collection. Presented by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 0 - 12 years old. Introduction To Computers: Saturday, April 26th, 2025 - 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Learn the basics of computers, including how to use a mouse and keyboard, write in a Word document, browse the internet, use email and more! Taught by instructors from Collective Sistahood. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Russian Theater Of The Microphone: Saturday, April 26th, 2025 - 3:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Join us for a cultural celebration of short stories, poetry, readings, videos and other topics of interest. Presentations will be conducted in Russian. For more information, contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Talking Is Teaching - Talk, Read, Sing For Toddlers: Monday, April 28th, 2025 - 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Join us for stories, songs and activities for toddlers and their caregivers. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 18 months - 3 years old. Chess Club: Monday, April 28th, 2025 - 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sharpen your Chess skills by playing with others! Fun for beginners and more advanced players alike. Meets in the auditorium. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 8 years of age and up. Falun Gong Meditation And Exercise: Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 - 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Join us in person or online to learn Falun Gong, an ancient, high-level Chinese practice that uses gentle movements and meditation to cultivate the body, mind and spirit. Registration is required for online participants. Zoom Link will be emailed to registrants. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Overcoming Stress & Anxiety With Meditation: Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 - 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Let your mind's cares and tensions melt away during this unique session of deep, progressive relaxation and gentle breathing exercises. Enjoy an uplifting, guided meditation and "mind massage" from a highly experienced meditation instructor. Steve Pollack's soothing voice supports you in opening your heart, focusing your mind, clearing chakras and uplifting your energy. For more information, please contact: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Teen Library Advisory Committee: Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 - 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Earn volunteer hours while helping make any other event type that describes your event at our library an even better place for teens. Make new friends while helping choose books, planning and leading programs and learning new skills. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 13 - 18 years old. Lion's Club Eye Screenings: Thursday, May 1st, 2025 - 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Receive free eye screenings offered by Lion's Club International in collaboration with the Florida Heiken Children's Vision Program. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . All ages. Color Me Happy: Thursday, May 1st, 2025 - 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Auditorium Join us for fun and simple coloring activities. Materials will be provided. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 6 years of age and up. Some of the above events are On-line. To register, go to: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura For more information, feel free to contact the Aventura Branch At: (305) 931-5512. The Aventura Branch Library is located at 2930 Aventura Boulevard, Aventura, Florida 33180. Previous Next

Toula Amanna Uniting Communities Through Collaboration And Contributions By Erika Cartwright February 6, 2023 Share As an owner of multiple operating businesses, mostly restaurants and Real Estate in downtown areas, Toula Amanna currently employs over 200 people in south Florida. Among her businesses are the Deerfield Beach Café, which she received through the RFP Award of the Pier Restaurant, an honor for which Toula is grateful. She is the owner of the Flashback Diner Chain, with three locations in Boca Raton, Davie and Hallandale Beach. Flashback Diner has been named one of Florida’s top restaurants for over 30 years. Toula, daughter of a Greek emigrant family, began waitressing when she was 17 at LUMS Restaurant, where the first unit of the original Flashback Diner is currently located in Hallandale Beach. Through hard work and determination, Toula later bought the LUMS Restaurant she was working at and opened it in 1990, as the first Flashback Diner location in Hallandale Beach. Toula credits her success to the efforts of all the good people who helped her achieve her dreams. Mentors, Staff and Family who helped her research, plan and execute with courage, integrity and especially, hard work. Finding herself in a Post-Pandemic World as the owner of Real Estate and operating businesses in Boca Raton, Davie, Fort Lauderdale and Hallandale Beach, Toula states, ”I'm also very grateful to the many people who are devoted to the community in which they serve. I truly credit them with my success in the past and during the Pandemic, for my survival in business: Mayors, Commissioners, CRA Directors, Town Council, City Staff, Planners, Resident Volunteers and SBA Officers. All those people that through the years saw the merit in taking old, decrepit buildings and renovating them into something new and exciting, while also creating jobs. During the Pandemic, these people were the beacon which we all followed to get us out of hardship and illness.” Toula expresses her gratitude to everyone who was instrumental in putting together grants and special programs to keep the businesses viable and to thrive after reopening. She credits Dr. Jeremy Earle, for his insight and concern, which resulted in the City of Hallandale Beach moving forward and thriving with new development. As well as Eli Khazzam in Business Development, Christy Dominguez and Mayor Cooper. She states,” In the Town of Davie, the entire Council just celebrated the Re-Election of their Team as it was, including Mayor Judy Paul and Councilmember Caryl Hattan, a testament from the people of Davie that everyone is happy with the work they are doing. Credit goes to the Town Administrator, Rick Lemack and the Head of the CRA, Philip Holste.” Her gratitude extends to Mayor Scott Singer, as well as the amazing City Staff, in Boca Raton, for their assistance in putting together grants and advertising campaigns to bring back to life the businesses in that City which are now booming again. In Deerfield Beach, the quick response of David Santucci, City Manager, Mayor Ganz and Commissioners allowed for expansion of the exterior patio for social distancing through the crisis and extended us credit. Toula is thankful to Mayor Dean Trantalis in Fort Lauderdale, who navigated through a series of hardships for the City, during its exponential growth, as well as City Manager, Greg Chavarria for their integrity and professionalism. “During the past two years, Managers and Staff worked diligently to sustain these businesses,” Toula stated. “Santos Melendez, Julio Izaguirre, Jamal Qazi, Karen Denike, Pepper Parker, June Perrino, Joseph Bienaime, Louis Poulias, Jorge Almeida, Costas Koubis, and Eduardo Alonso-Morales. Also, my daughters, Mariella Amanna and Elizabeth Amanna, as well as many other employees, each of whom put their best self forward with amazing results. "Special thanks go to my decades-long friend and business partner, Rochelle Matza, our CPA, for her amazing professional acumen as she navigated through the complexities of the SBA relief programs and taxation with the utmost patience and support in very challenging times. For the 25+ years I have had the privilege to work with her, she has constantly volunteered her time to the support of major Community and Charitable causes that have enhanced and raised living standards extending benefits to people beyond the boundaries of our State and supporting causes of National importance." Some will be missed for their presence and efforts as they have moved away from the area such as Rose Bishop, our previous Controller and George Thiakos, who left our company and started a new venture.” In the future, Toula sees herself doing what inspires her more than anything else, which is to return the incredible gifts she has received back to the Communities. She plans on the continuation of building and renovating buildings, in which people live, work and play, on a grander scale. She wishes to pass on the knowledge and the thought process that created them, to the younger generations, Toula states: “Working in this direction, the time has come for me to send invitations to other business people, landowners and influencers to connect and plan how to best thrive in the new world of Technology-dominated services, employment challenges, rising costs, changing culture through Social Media, lack of credible information and complicated political climate.” An advocate for business owners, Toula states, “As I work in two distinct industries, in Commercial Real Estate and in the Restaurant Business, I would like to take this opportunity to discuss causes that will make our lives better, for which I have undertaken the initiative to work towards and invite others to join me, she continues, “The $3.02 Tip Credit in Wages, unchanged since 2003, must be increased. The FLRA and NRA must help Restaurateurs that they represent to increase the tip credit accordingly, as now servers have greater income than the managers while the cooks and dishwashers work just as hard and the income distribution for restaurant workers is unfair. We also need the SBA to develop specialized programs for the Restaurant Industry. An incentive to Banks to start loaning to Restaurants again, through guarantees of those loans and incentives to the Lending Institutions: Banks would rather stay away from lending to Restaurants in a Post-Pandemic World and we are in an industry the Nation needs very much for the jobs we create. In the development of our cities, we must find common ground between Landowners, Developers, Politicians and City Government. I understand all sides, the developer’s and the landowner’s but most importantly, I understand the diversity and needs of the Community. I believe only clear and direct communication can bring results, as well as respect. We can partner up only with a person we trust and respect.” Toula Amanna, a remarkable business woman, a pillar in her communities, with integrity and vision. To connect, please contact her at: Toula.Amanna@RegulusAllianceCorp.com < Previous News Next News >

Mother's Day: How Did This Special Day Come To Be? Thu May 04 2023 16:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)