U.S. Dietary Guidelines Have Made Us Ill -- Let's Change Them Already By Nina Teicholz and Ty Beal May 29, 2025 Our Nation's Top Health Officials Are Sounding The Alarm On Federal Nutrition Policy. They're Right To Be Concerned. Rates Of Diet-Related Diseases -- Including: Obesity, Diabetes, Osteoporosis, And Iron-Deficiency Anemia -- Continue To Rise. Anemia Alone Affects 10 Million Americans, Causing Chest Pain, Headaches, And Fatigue. Left Untreated, It Can Lead To Serious Heart Problems, Premature Births, And Stunted Growth In Infants And Children. Given the stakes, adequate nutrition should become the cornerstone of national dietary policy. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans shapes everything from school lunch programs to broader federal health initiatives. Yet the recommended dietary patterns continue to fall short. According to the 2025 guidelines' own expert report, a person following these recommendations will not meet adequate goals for Iron, Vitamin D, Choline, and Folate -- nutrients crucial for brain development, bone health, and the prevention of birth defects, among other vital functions. The responsibility now lies with the Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services to make a final decision on the report's findings and develop the official 2025-2030 guidelines, due out this year. It is crucial that the new guidelines effectively address nutritional needs. The nutritional status of adolescent girls illustrates these concerns. Nearly 40% of females between the ages of 12 and 21 years are Iron Deficient. More than 6% are so low they develop Anemia. This represents a significant public health challenge during a critical period of development. The nutritional challenges extend to bone health. By the expert report's measure, among girls aged 14 to 18 years: 68% fall below adequacy for Calcium, 89% for Magnesium, more than 97% for Vitamin D, and 23% for Protein. Pregnancy and lactation amplify these challenges. Nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy can jeopardize the health of mother and baby, in extreme cases leading to complications such as developmental delays and neurological damage. The expert committees behind the guidelines' scientific reports have previously acknowledged these nutrient gaps and their public health significance. But the current report continues to reflect similar gaps in its recommendations. For instance, the committee recommends Americans consume three servings of refined grains per day -- not because they're healthy, but because they're enriched with added nutrients. Without these enriched foods, the recommended diet would be even less adequate. Enriched grains were a reasonable priority when introduced in the 1940’s. In the previous three decades, nutrition scientists had identified the vitamins and minerals needed to sustain good health. Although these experts identified milk, eggs, butter, organ meats, and green leafy vegetables as nutrient-dense "protective" foods, the government opted to deliver vitamins and minerals by adding nutrients to refined grains. Wartime rationing was in effect, and grains were still cheaper. The fallout from stigmatizing nourishing foods is that basic nutrition has been imperiled. Many nutrients from animal foods are more easily absorbed than those in plants or enriched refined grains. Additionally, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds can contain high levels of a compound called phytate, which hinders the body's absorption of Iron, Zinc, and Calcium. Yet the guidelines' scientific report stresses the health benefits of beans, peas, and lentils over animal products and overlooks issues of nutrient absorption and adequacy. Moving forward, we need to put nutrition back into our nutrition policy. The upcoming guidelines should prioritize nutrient sufficiency to support optimal health. Nina Teicholz, Ph.D., is a Science Journalist and Author. Ty Beal, Ph.D., is Head of Food Systems Data and Analytics at the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition. This piece originally ran in The Hill. Previous Next

An Autonomous World Starts with a Robotic Chanukah By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil December 25, 2024 Share Chanukah is known for the miracle of the Menorah that took place in the Temple, but the holiday was called Chanukah from the word Chanukat Habayit (lit Dedication of House), because it was the rededication of the Temple, after being occupied by the Greeks. Chanukah also comes from the word Chinuch, which means education. During this holiday we are supposed to gather our families together and educate our children and ourselves, about the miracles done for us on a constant basis. Together with recalling the original Chanukah miracles, we remind our families about the personal family stories that we each have, that brought us to where we are today. Chanukah (sometimes spelled Hanukkah or Hanuka), which is also known as the Festival of Lights, begins this year on the evening of Wednesday, December 25th, 2024, and concludes 8 days later, on the evening of Thursday, January 2nd, 2025. It recalls the victory of a militarily weak Jewish people who defeated the Syrian Greeks who had overrun ancient Israel and sought to impose restrictions on the Jewish way of life and prohibit religious freedom. They also desecrated and defiled the Temple and the oils prepared for the lighting of the menorah, which was part of the daily service. Upon recapturing the Temple only one jar of undefiled oil was found, enough to burn only one day, but it lasted miraculously for eight. In commemoration, Jews celebrate Chanukah for eight days by lighting an eight-branched candelabrum known as a menorah (the 9th branch is to help light the other 8). Today, people of all faiths consider this holiday a symbol and message of the triumph of freedom over oppression, of spirit over matter, of light over darkness. Additional information about the holiday is available at: www.ChabadChayil.org/Holidays. This year’s menorah lighting is done with the recognition of the crucial need for a message of hope during a time that is so difficult for the people in Israel. The menorah serves as a symbol of light and hope for us today amidst the world's craziness, as it did for generations before us. The flames of the menorah shine out into the night, reminding us that even when confronted with much darkness, a tiny light can dispel it all. Each additional act of goodness and kindness, fills that corner of the world with light, slowly catching on and spreading like wildfire. One act of goodness and kindness can make all the difference. Uniquely, at the core of Chanuka’s observance is sharing the light with others who may not be experiencing it. What better time or place to celebrate, than at this year's 21st annual Street Fair celebration in Highland Lakes! This year's theme will be Robotic Chanukah, featuring the world-renowned Sophia the Robot, Robodog and several other robot celebrities! The free family-friendly event will this year take place on Sunday, December 29th, 2024/5785 beginning at 3:30 p.m. with pony rides, a petting zoo, an Obstacle Course, Laser Tag, Bounce House and other fun activities. This year's Street Fair will also feature Pedal Yard, teaching kids how to ride a 2 wheel bike on their own. There will also be a food court, holiday boutique, with music and lots of surprises throughout the day. As a family man who is deeply involved in the community, I must say that there is no better way to spend that Sunday. Adults and children alike, are welcomed to join the many dignitaries and community leaders for an enjoyable and a meaningfully fun time for everyone. The idea behind a Robotic Chanukah is, as the world gets ready for Moshiach, where we will all be busy with studying Torah and doing Mitzvahs, we will have robots helping us with our regular daily mundane tasks. Since Chanukah comes from the word Chinuch (education), we need to educate ourselves and prepare ourselves for an autonomous world, so that we can stay focused on what really matters! Sophia is the most realistic humanoid robot capable of displaying humanlike expressions and interacting with people. She’s the world's first robot to hold a passport and an Ambassador for the United Nations (whatever that's worth). This will be Sophia's first official Chanukah Celebration and her first time lighting a Menorah! Throughout the State of Florida, Chabad will be organizing scores of giant menorah displays of all sorts, including a grand celebration with the Miami Heat on January 1st, 2025, a huge concert at Rick Case Arena and scores of others. To find a local event here in Florida, or anywhere throughout the world, visit Chabad’s international Chanukah event directory at ChabadChayil.org/Chanukah or the Jewish community’s local directory at: https://JewishFlorida.news/events. This year, Chabad-organized menorah parades will see over 8,000 Chanukah menorah-topped cars hit the road, bringing the Chanukah message of hope and joy through the city and into residential neighborhoods, allowing families to safely share the joy and light of Chanukah with pride. Chabad centers worldwide have prepared over 32 million Chanukah candles, more than 700,000 menorah kits and 2.5 million holiday guides in 17 languages. Large display Menorahs are available at many online sources and can still get to you in time for the holiday. If you need a menorah or candles for yourself, or need any help celebrating the holiday or finding a large Menorah to display at your place of work, please call your local Chabad or my office at: (305) 770-1919. My favorite is the new LED ones available at: https://bit.ly/lightupmenorah. We can also help you plan your own Chanukah event, Menorah lighting or Latke party. And if you book early enough, we can send you a group of Yeshiva students to liven up or help run your event. We hope and pray for an end to all violence in the world, the return of all hostages and the eradication of all evil. We know that at the end goodness and light will prevail, and that even though we are outnumbered, righteousness will endure. We wish you and your family a very happy Chaunkah. May our days be filled with light, warmth, joy and positive energy, and always increasing, just like the Menorah lights that increase with each day. To join us for the beautiful annual free Chanukah event, become a vendor or sponsor, call (305) 770-1919 or visit: www.ChabadChayil.org/events. To learn about the new Chabad Educational Center or the available dedications, visit: www.ChabadChayil.org/Build. The Author Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, your local CTeen & CKids chapters, CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools and direct Chabad Chayil. He’s the Rabbi at The Family Shul and can be reached at: (305) 770-1919. Or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org . You can also support the community with your partnership at: www.ChabadChayil.org/Partner. < Previous News Next News >

An Outdoor Dining Oasis: The Aventura Mall Is The Premier Shopping & Dining Destination Fri Jul 19 2024 16:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

America's Moldiest Cities - Study Reveals 8 Florida Cities (Led By Fort Lauderdale) With The Highest Respiratory Risk For Residents Mon Dec 30 2024 19:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Betsy Presents Venice With Love - A Hotel-Wide Exhibition By Internationally Acclaimed Artist Edouard Duval-Carrie South Florida Sun Times Aug 13, 2026 The Betsy, A Boutique Michelin Key Hotel Located In The Heart Of South Beach’s Art Deco District And Recognized As A Hub For Arts And Culture, Presents From Venice With Love, A Property-Wide Exhibition By Internationally Acclaimed Miami-Based Haitian Artist Edouard Duval-Carrie. On Display Through Sunday, November 15th, 2026, The Exhibition Coincides With The Artist's Presentation At The 61st International Art Exhibition Of La Biennale di Venezia—The World's Most Prestigious Contemporary Art Exhibition—Allowing Guests And Visitors To Simultaneously Experience His Vibrant, Mixed-Media Works Exploring Caribbean History And Culture. Curated by Pulitzer Prize-winning Haitian-American visual historian and cultural storyteller Carl-Philippe Juste, From Venice With Love transforms The Betsy into an immersive showcase that delves into themes of migration, memory, Vodou symbolism and the enduring cultural ties between Haiti and Africa, offering a powerful exploration of identity while challenging conventional narratives of the Caribbean. “We are delighted to feature Edouard Duval-Carrie in The Betsy’s galleries because we love everything about his work,” said Lesley Goldwasser, co-owner and curator at The Betsy. “Edouard’s powerful visual style first delights the eye and also inspires viewers to think deeply about the serious content and message.” Widely regarded as one of South Florida’s most influential contemporary artists (he was named Miami-Dade County’s official artist-in-residence in 2024), Duval-Carrie’s politically charged sculptures and mixed-media paintings often draw on magical realism to explore identity, migration, spirituality and the African and Caribbean diaspora. For more than three decades, his studio in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood has served as an important center of artistic production and cultural life. The exhibition opened August 1 with multiple installations in the hotel’s gallery and “Ode to the Everglades,” a monumental lobby display that will remain on view following the exhibition’s conclusion on Sunday, November 15th, 2026 through Miami Art Week. On Sunday, August 9th, 2026 From Venice With Love expanded with the debut of a collection of 26 illuminated light boxes in BBar and an immersive digital installation on “The Betsy Orb,” the hotel’s iconic architectural landmark, and public art platform. Marking the second installation in The Betsy Orb’s recently launched year-round digital art program, the projection is curated and adapted by Carl-Philippe Juste, who reimagines Duval-Carrie's work through synchronized projection and music. The dynamic public art experience, developed through a decades-long creative relationship between Juste and Duval-Carrie, will be visible from The Betsy’s restored alleyway connecting Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue. “By transforming so many spaces throughout The Betsy—including the Orb—we’re inviting visitors to become participants rather than observers,” said Juste. “The Orb offers a new interpretation of Edouard’s work, but the technology is never the point. The art comes first, creating opportunities for people to experience it together, eye to eye, and continue the conversations it inspires.” The collection reflects The Betsy's longstanding commitment to making world-class art accessible while inspiring meaningful conversation and the exchange of ideas. Like all exhibitions, galleries and cultural programming at The Betsy, From Venice With Love, The Betsy Orb installation and all accompanying public programs are free and open to the public. “It’s extraordinary that a hotel lends itself to this kind of production and brings so many partners together,” said Duval-Carrie. “Guests from around the world will encounter these works in unexpected places, giving me an opportunity to share my view of the world and the history of Haiti with audiences who may be discovering it for the first time. I hope the experience creates a context for deeper conversations and reminds us of art’s unique ability to bring people together—even around difficult subjects.” More than an art exhibit, From Venice With Love serves as a community-wide initiative produced collaboratively by The Betsy Writer’s Room and the FIU Public Humanities Lab, with support from the Jorge M. Pérez Family Foundation’s CreARTE program and the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. Through free public programming, curated academic salons and live performances in both Miami Beach and Little Haiti, the initiative creates space for dialogue surrounding Caribbean art, history and identity while serving as a living laboratory for the African and Caribbean diaspora. In a region home to the world’s largest Haitian diaspora communities, the collection creates a meaningful opportunity to engage with themes that have helped shape Miami’s cultural identity. To view highlights of select works featured in From Venice With Love, along with descriptions, visit: https://www.thebetsywritersroom.com/fromvenicewithlove2026 Events & Programming: • Monday, August 17th, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. – Fireside Chat with Edouard Duval-Carrie | The Betsy • Saturday, August 22nd, 2026 | 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. – Curated Conversation: Roots and Canvas: Tracing Miami’s Haitian Art Legacy | BBar at The Betsy • Sunday, August 23rd, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. – Ocean Drive Promenade Music Series: Etienne Charles | Lummus Park • Sunday, August 23rd, 2026 | 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. – Meet the Artist: Nuria Richards & Edouard Duval-Carrie | BBar at The Betsy • Saturday, August 29th, 2026 | 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. – Curated Conversation: Defending the Sacred: Preservation, Resilience and the Future of the Diaspora | BBar at The Betsy • Sunday, August 30th, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. – Ocean Drive Promenade Music Series: Diaspora Vibe Afro Beat All Stars | Lummus Park • Sunday, August 30th, 2026 | 8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. – Edgar Pantoja with Guest Artists | The Betsy Piano Bar • Sunday, October 31st, 2026 | 8:00 p.m. -10:00 p.m. – Closing Celebration: Paella Party | The Betsy For more information about From Venice With Love, visit: https://www.thebetsywritersroom.com/fromvenicewithlove2026 About The Betsy - South Beach Recognized as a Michelin Key hotel, The Betsy is a 130-room, family-owned and -operated luxury oceanfront resort within South Beach’s Art Deco Historic District that was named “Best Luxury Hotel” in the Miami Herald’s 2025 Miami-Dade Favorites Awards. The celebrated boutique resort opened in 2009 following a complete restoration of the historic Betsy Ross Hotel and later underwent a groundbreaking expansion in 2016, merging with the former art deco Carlton Hotel. The Betsy is home to The Alley and LT South Beach, both helmed by award-winning Chef Laurent Tourondel, as well as The Piano Bar, which is widely regarded for live jazz. The hotel also boasts a 3,200-Square-Foot rooftop complex with a swimming pool, a property library and nearly 25,000 Square Feet of special event space. Lauded as a world-leading literary hotel, The Betsy offers jazz 10 times a week, classical music pop-ups, major art exhibitions, poetry readings, and an artist residency program that has welcomed more than 2,000 writers and creatives since its inception. Public art includes “The Betsy Orb,” an egg-shaped architectural masterpiece and year-round digital art canvas that also serves as a functional bridge connecting the hotel’s two buildings, and “The Betsy Poetry Rail,” an installation of poetry etched into metal by water jets, celebrating 12 poets who shaped Miami history and culture. The Betsy’s motto is “Expect no more. This is Happiness.” These words were penned by poet Hyam Plutzik (1911-62), a three-time finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Poetry and the father of owner Jonathan Plutzik, whose literary legacy continues to inspire the hotel’s commitment to the arts as a defining pillar of The Betsy hospitality brand. The Betsy is a 130-room, family-owned and - operated luxury oceanfront resort within South Beach’s Art Deco Historic District that was named “Best Luxury Hotel” in the Miami Herald’s 2025 Miami-Dade Favorites Awards. Acclaimed Miami-based Haitian artist Edouard Duval-Carrie. Curated by Pulitzer Prize-winning Haitian-American visual historian and cultural storyteller Carl-Philippe. Previous Next

Become A Teen Ambassador: High School Students Can Learn About Careers in The Arts Thu Aug 17 2023 16:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Ahead Of Jewish High Holidays, The Jewish Federation Of Broward County Provides Resources To One Of The Largest Jewish Communities Nationwide South Florida Sun Times Sep 10, 2026 With The High Holidays Approaching, Beginning With Rosh Hashanah On The Evening Of Friday, September 11th, 2026 And Continuing Through Yom Kippur On Sunday, September 20th, 2026 The Jewish Federation Of Broward County Is Providing Key Resources Across Broward County Reaching One Of The Largest Jewish Communities Nationwide. With Nearly 180,000 Jewish Residents In Broward County, The Federation Has A Unique Bird's-Eye View Of The Entire Broward Jewish Ecosystem And Has Expanded Its Security Offerings While Also Publishing A High Holiday Services Guide That Gathers Contact Information, Costs, And Youth Or Family Programming Details From 47 Synagogues Across The County, Including Options For Residents Who Are Not Affiliated With A Synagogue Of Their Own. "At a time when so many people are seeking connection, belonging, and a meaningful place to mark the High Holidays, the Jewish Federation of Broward County is committed to removing barriers and helping every individual and family find a welcoming doorway into Jewish life," said Audra P. Berg, President & CEO, Jewish Federation of Broward County. "By bringing together information from 47 synagogues across Broward County, our High Holiday Services Guide is making it easier for community members, including those who are not affiliated with a synagogue, to understand their options, ask the right questions and participate in Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur in a way that feels accessible and meaningful. Federation's role is to be a trusted connector: a place people can turn to for guidance, resources and a stronger sense of community." The guide is being shared through email and Social Media, is accessible on the Federation's website. and is organized by movement, Reform, Conservative, Orthodox and Chabad, so families and individuals can find a congregation that fits them by denomination and location. Alongside the guide, the Federation has expanded its investment in proactive solutions that strengthen the resilience of the local Jewish community; build strategic partnerships with local law enforcement; equip Jewish institutions with security equipment, hands-on training, grant assistance, and planning support for synagogues, Jewish schools, and organizations across the county. That work has made Broward a regional model other Jewish communities increasingly look to for preparedness. Ahead of this year's High Holidays, some of the Federation's security provisions include: • Providing approximately $45,000 in security equipment, including metal detectors and crowd management systems • Delivering 20 crowd management safety systems to synagogues, schools and community facilities • Sharing fillable Emergency Operations Plan templates to support emergency preparedness • Offering bi-weekly security trainings, including Situational Awareness, Countering Active Threat Training and Stop the Bleed • Strengthening collaboration among Jewish institutions, law enforcement partners and community stakeholders "Security is an ongoing partnership that happens year-round, long before anyone walks through the door during the High Holidays," said Burg. "The goal is for every synagogue to be focused on welcoming people in, and for every family to walk in with peace of mind." The Federation views both initiatives as part of the same mission: reducing the barriers between Broward's Jewish community and a meaningful High Holiday season. For more information, visit: https://jewishbroward.org . About the Jewish Federation of Broward County Jewish Federation of Broward County leverages the community's human and financial resources to create maximum impact and inspire philanthropy to invest in Jewish life. Federation programs support and advocate for Jews in Broward County, in Israel, and around the world. Programs include helping at-risk children and individuals with special needs; caring for seniors to guard against social isolation, financial challenges, food insecurity, and the effects of Dementia; feeding the hungry, helping victims of domestic abuse; providing financial assistance to prevent homelessness; and ensuring families can afford safe, high-quality childcare. The Federation strengthens Jewish identity locally through Jewish camps, trips, day schools, youth groups, Israel programs, and more. Learn more at: https://jewishbroward.org . The Federation has expanded its investment in proactive solutions that strengthen the resilience of the local Jewish community. Previous Next

Make A Difference Around The World - Open Your Home And Your Heart-Host An Exchange Student South Florida Sun Times May 22, 2025 Families Across The U.S. Have A Unique Opportunity To Experience A New Culture Right In Their Own Homes. ASSE International Student Exchange Programs, A Non-Profit Public Benefit Organization, Is Currently Seeking Warm And Welcoming Host Families To Open Their Homes To International Exchange Students For The Upcoming School Year. Hosting an exchange student is a life-changing experience for families that fosters cultural understanding, builds lifelong friendships, while enriching local communities. Students, aged 15-18 years, come from over 60 countries around the world, including France, Japan, Italy, Denmark, Australia, Spain and many more. The students are carefully selected based on their academic performance, English proficiency, and personal character, and they are eager to become part of an American family, attend a local high school and share their own traditions. During their stay, ASSE exchange students immerse themselves in American culture by living with and becoming part of a volunteer host family while attending a local high school. This experience allows them to improve their English skills, form lifelong friendships and gain a deeper understanding of American life and values. In return, host families and communities benefit from the unique perspectives and cultural exchange that these students bring. "Being a host family isn't just about providing a place to stay; it's about making a student from another country part of the family," says Saphia Lesch, ASSE Regional Director. "Many host families find that the experience is just as rewarding for them as it is for the student. The bonds formed often last a lifetime." "Exchange students bring energy, curiosity and fresh perspectives to their host families and communities. They attend local schools, participate in activities and become a real family member." Host families provide a safe and supportive home, meals, and encouragement, while students come with their own spending money and health insurance, ensuring that hosting is a rewarding and enriching experience without financial burden. Anyone with a warm and welcoming home can host an exchange student! Host families come in many forms, including married couples (with or without children), single parents, young professionals, empty-nesters, same-sex couples, and retirees. ASSE also offers qualified American students the opportunity to learn another language and culture by spending a school year, semester or a summer with a host family in another country. Founded in the USA in 1976, ASSE International Student Exchange Programs, a non-profit, public benefit organization, is a trusted name in Cultural Exchange. Through its mission to promote global understanding and goodwill, ASSE creates life-changing opportunities for young people and their host families to experience different cultures, learn new perspectives and develop lifelong friendships. Families interested in hosting an exchange student or exploring study abroad opportunities are encouraged to learn more and apply by visiting: www.host.asse.com - Or contacting Saphia Lesch at: (800) 736-1760. Email: host@asse.com . Previous Next

Latin Flair & Asian Flavors Abound At Finka Table & Tap South Florida Sun Times Jun 26, 2025 Finka Table & Tap, The Beloved West Kendall Restaurant Known For Its Bold Latin-Asian Cuisine, Vibrant Spirit And Hospitality Is Starting The Summer Fun Early With A Slew Of New Cocktails. The Lineup Features Seven Handcrafted Cocktails That Are Anything But Ordinary, Boasting Unique Techniques, Nostalgic Flavors, And Unexpected Ingredients. Beverage Director Alex Aportela set out to curate drinks that felt exciting but also familiar. He notes, “We wanted to have fun with flavors while staying true to Finka’s identity—bold, a little wild, and deeply rooted in Latin and Asian culture.” From clarified tomatillo punch to coconut-infused bourbon, each cocktail is a statement in flavor, story, and style. Finka’s new cocktails include: Mole Mole Mole – Robust & Smokey A clarified milk punch with Amaras Mezcal, house-made mole, and acid-adjusted orange juice, topped with a homemade tortilla chip drizzled in chocolate. Dough Not Touch My Coffee – Caffeinated & Rich A decadent blend of coconut-infused Legent Bourbon, fresh brewed coffee, charred doughnuts, maple syrup, and coconut water – garnished with white chocolate shavings over ice. How Do You Dew? – Fizzy & Refreshing Havana Club Blanco, fresh honeydew juice, herbal peppercorn cordial, and sparkling water meet in this bubbly and crisp sipper, finished with a slice of honeydew. Call My Ube(r) – Herbaceous & Silky Roku Gin with ube Thai basil miso syrup, coconut cream, and citrus – shaken with egg white for a lush texture and served with a honeycomb chip. El Tillo Que Toma – Savory & Spicy Clarified milk punch with Hornitos Tequila, charred tomatillo, salsa verde, and cilantro – garnished with a dehydrated tomato slice for an umami-rich experience. Arroz Con Mango – Tropical & Toasty A tropical-yet-earthy surprise featuring Haku Rice Vodka, toasted rice syrup, mango purée, habanero tincture, and a citrusy rice-lime zest foam with mango rice powder. Oolong La – Floral & Tingly Japanese Toki Whisky with oolong-Szechuan tea, malic and citric acids, and forced carbonation – garnished with a peach-Szechuan hard candy “The cocktails feel like a warm summer night at Finka,” says Aportela. “We design drinks to catch your eye but always drink easy. Every cocktail tells its own story, but they all come from the same world, where culinary techniques meet bar craft.” While sipping on new cocktail creations, don’t forget to savor Finka’s incredible culinary dishes. The El Tillo Que Toma and Mole Mole Mole are designed to pair beautifully with favorites such as pork belly, ribs, and anything char-grilled. All aspects work in harmony for the ideal culinary experience. Finka Table & Tap was opened in 2014 by Chef Eileen Andrade as her first- owned concept. The restaurant focuses on Cuban, Peruvian and Korean cuisines. The eatery is known for its eclectic food menu mixed with craft cocktails. The space is a go-to spot for families in the Miami suburb of West Kendall. The spacious restaurant seats 222 guests indoors with private dining holding 45 guests and the bar/lounge fitting 24 guests. Finka Table & Tap is located at 14690 Southwest 26th Street, Miami, Florida 33175. For more information, please visit: www.finkarestaurant.com - Or call: (305) 227-8818. Previous Next

You Do Make A Difference Thu Oct 20 2022 16:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Gateway Park Transforms Into A Winter Wonderland Wed Nov 29 2023 17:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Community Leaders Take Center Stage During Art & Culture Center / Hollywood Art Of Drag Fundraiser October 18, 2024 Share Drag superstars and dazzling divas will light up the stage during the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood’s “The Art of Drag” Fundraiser, returning for another glamorous year at Lips Fort Lauderdale, soon to be renamed Aquaplex Fort Lauderdale, located at 1421 East Oakland Park Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33334, on Thursday, November 14th, at 7:00 p.m. This one-of-a-kind event will feature exclusive performances by local business and community leaders, Lips talented entertainers (now called the Aquanettes) and a special guest appearance by Michael Dean as Cher in support of the Center’s mission to inspire and elevate the arts in South Florida. “We value our continued partnership with Lips Fort Lauderdale as we unite the community with this guest favorite event to benefit our arts education and cultural programs,” said Jennifer Homan, Executive Director of Art and Culture Center/Hollywood." ‘The Art of Drag’ brings people together to celebrate the creative talents of the divas and raise much needed funds for the Center which is critical at this time due to the State of Florida Arts and Culture funding cuts." This year’s event will feature memorable performances by Art and Culture Center/Hollywood Board Members Gilda Ellison and Amanda Mitchell, as well as the much-anticipated return of crowd favorites Board Secretary John Mabry and Community Leader Michael Berry. Mabry, a seasoned performer, will mark his fifth consecutive appearance at this beloved fundraiser. Each guest diva will present a showstopping rendition of classic hits made famous by popular female icons. The evening’s highlight will be a special guest performance by Michael Dean as Cher, who has gained a solid reputation for impersonating the Legendary Singer/Actor. Michael Dean, a leading Cher impersonator, has entertained audiences nationwide, with appearances at venues like the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Lips Fort Lauderdale/Atlanta/Chicago and Oscar’s Cabaret in Palm Springs. Known for his spot-on impersonation and passion for Cher’s magic, Dean’s performance promises to be a highlight of the evening. Proceeds from the “The Art of Drag” will directly benefit Art and Culture Center/Hollywood’s programs, which include contemporary gallery exhibitions, live stage performances, and enriching educational initiatives for children and adults. The Center remains committed to fostering creativity, innovation, and artistic collaboration throughout the South Florida community. Sponsors to date include The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel and GPR | Goodman Public Relations. Lips Fort Lauderdale, which was recently acquired and will soon be renamed Aquaplex Fort Lauderdale, will be the perfect backdrop for this event with dinner and a high energy show hosted by Amanda Austin. Tickets are limited, with general admission priced at $100, which includes an entrée, dessert, and a complimentary beverage (choice of cocktail, wine, or domestic beer). For those seeking a more exclusive experience, VIP Booths are available for $1,000 or VIP Tables for $1,500. Sponsorship opportunities are also available, with tiers including Diva Sponsor for $2,500, Champagne Sponsor for $5,000, and Presenting Sponsor for $10,000. To purchase tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit: https://www.artandculturecenter.org/events About Art and Culture Center/Hollywood The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization supported in part by its members, admissions, private entities, the City of Hollywood, the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council; and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture; the David and Francie Horvitz Family Foundation; and the Josephine S. Leiser Foundation. We welcome donations from all members of the community who wish to support the Center’s efforts to elevate the arts in South Florida. About Aquaplex Key West (new owner of Lips Fort Lauderdale) Aquaplex Key West has gained the reputation as the leading entertainment destination on the southernmost tip island with a multitude of experiences all under one roof including the Aqua Theater & Bar, Back Bar, 22& Co Bar and the Aquabelle Fusion Food Truck. The Birdcage Cabaret Show, a Las Vegas style production hosted by internationally recognized entertainer, Christopher Peterson, is featured on select nights. The venue hosts nightly drag shows featuring a talented cast of entertainers, affectionately named the Aquanettes. The world-famous televised jumbo high-heel shoe drop on New Year’s Eve is launched from this 20,000-Square Foot venue. For the latest shows, event schedules and other pertinent information, please visit: www.aquakeywest.com . Aquaplex Key West is located at 711 Duval Street Key West, Florida 33040. Lips Fort Lauderdale (to be officially named Aquaplex Fort Lauderdale) Lips Fort Lauderdale has been offering amazing drag entertainment to sold-out audiences for nearly 17 years. It will soon be renamed Aquaplex Fort Lauderdale and feature the best in drag entertainment with a variety of show concepts, an elevated bar and dining menu and an immersive and interactive entertainment experience. Lips is open Wednesday through Sunday nights with weekend brunch shows at 1421 East Oakland Park Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33334, about one mile east of I-95. For more information about Lips, call: (954) 567-0987. Or visit: www.lipsusa.com . < Previous News Next News >