Fogo de Chão Fort Lauderdale A Brazilian Epicurean Adventure By Merilee Kern, MBA Jul 16, 2025 Ensconced In The Vibrant Las Olas Boulevard Section Of Fort Lauderdale, Fogo de Chão Offers An Incomparable Dining Experience Exuding The Warmth Of Brazilian Hospitality. With Locations Around The Globe, This Particular South Florida Location Uniquely Captures The Essence Of The Brand While Infusing It With Local Flair. The Restaurant’s Signature Commitment To Value, Variety, And Customization Shines Through In Every Detail, Making It A Standout Among Fort Lauderdale’s Dining Options. At the heart of Fogo de Chão is its dedication to balancing tradition with innovation. For over 45 years, the restaurant has celebrated the rich heritage of Brazilian churrasco, while continuously evolving its menu to meet modern tastes and dietary preferences. This is evident in offerings like its Signature Churrasco Experience, where a rotating selection of high-quality meats, carved tableside by gaucho chefs, ensures a dynamic and satisfying culinary journey free from the anxiety of choosing just one dish. Guests are also invited to indulge in dishes like the Whole Branzino, a delicately grilled fish that highlights the versatility of the churrasco cooking style, and the indulgent Caviar Brioche, which bridges the gap between luxury and approachability. The restaurant’s famed “Market Table” complements the dining experience with its vibrant array of seasonal salads, exotic vegetables, and nutrient-rich dishes, catering to diverse dietary needs including vegetarian, gluten-free, and keto options. For a deeper dive into this restaurant’s formula for success, below is a conversation with Neimar Hensel, Area Manager at Fogo de Chão, who highlights why this Fort Lauderdale hotspot offers an exceptional epicurean adventure. MK: First, what makes the Fort Lauderdale location of Fogo de Chão unique compared to other locations throughout the U.S.? NH: The Fort Lauderdale location stands out with its expansive outdoor patio, offering a unique dining experience in the open air, with views of the waterfront. The venue combines the laid-back South Florida vibe with vibrant Brazilian culture. Our Fort Lauderdale location also features a butcher shop storefront where our gauchos, professionally trained chefs, expertly prepare premium cuts, and can offer you popular cuts like Ribeyes, NY Strip Steaks, and Filet Mignon, as well as more authentic Brazilian cuts including Picanha and Fraldinha to take home. At Fogo, we focus on the three most important aspects of dining out for our guests, which are value, variety and customization. We offer customizable menu offerings so everyone can find their culinary favorites at every daypart, including weekend brunch, All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Lunch, Dinner, and fresh, seasonal soup and salads at the Market Table which is suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more. These aspects truly set us apart from other steakhouses. MK: What sets the restaurant apart from other comparable restaurant options in Fort Lauderdale? NH: Dining out often comes with “menu anxiety” or “plate envy,” where people regret their order after seeing what someone else gets. At Fogo, this stress disappears with our Signature Churrasco Experience. Guests have endless opportunities to discover new culinary options and savor their favorites including a rotating mix of high-quality proteins cut and served tableside, signature sides, and customizable dishes, which means that they don’t have to pick just one. At Fogo, we offer customizable menu offerings for every daypart, including weekend brunch, All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Lunch, Dinner, and fresh, seasonal soup and salads at the Market Table which is suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more. These aspects truly set us apart from other steakhouses. Our Dry-Aged meat locker of premium cuts offers our guests a unique, elevated and distinct culinary experience. Dry-aged premium cuts are renowned for their intensified meat flavors and enhanced tenderness. The dry-aging process of 22-42 days enhances the natural flavors of the meat while breaking down the muscle fibers, resulting in a richer, nutty, and bolder beef taste and a tender texture. Fogo’s Dry-Aged Premium Cuts are designed to share and enhance your dining occasion from birthdays to anniversaries to group meetings, feeding 2-6 guests. MK: Brazilian hospitality is a cornerstone of Fogo de Chão’s philosophy. How is this reflected in the service provided at the Fort Lauderdale location? NH: From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with warmth and a sense of care that makes them feel right at home. The gaucho chefs, who bring the churrasco meats directly to the table, create an interactive and engaging experience, ensuring each guest receives the perfect meal tailored to their preferences. At Fogo, we pride ourselves on bringing Brazilian hospitality to the heart of every city. MK: Fogo de Chão has a rich history rooted in Brazilian churrasco. How does the restaurant balance tradition with innovation in its dining experience? NH: For the past 45 years, Fogo has provided wholesome, nutritional menu options for every dietary tribe. By staying consistent with our Brazilian roots, we are continuously evolving to provide offerings that align with guests' expectations, from quality to flavor. A perfect example of this is the introduction of blistered fresh fish to our menu with the Whole Branzino. The Whole Branzino can be added to any experience and is deboned and then grilled on the churrasco grill over an open flame which blisters the skin, giving the fish a crisp and decadent flavor. Many guests don’t realize that traditional churrasco is not exclusive to steak, but also includes fresh fish. A more viral example is our Caviar Brioche. Caviar is all over Social Media, with many guests sharing they are excited to try this indulgent offering for the first time. Our Caviar Brioche allows guests to try decadent items in the form of small bites, allowing us to provide guests an attainable and approachable value for indulgent offerings. MK: What are some of the most popular cuts of meat served at this location, and do you offer any exclusive menu items specific to Fort Lauderdale? NH: The most popular cut of meat is Fogo’s signature specialty Picanha (top sirloin) and Fraldinha (bottom sirloin). Both of which are lightly seasoned in-house with salt and cooked over an open flame, then carved tableside by our Gaucho chefs. Each cut is a favorite in Brazil and loved by our guests in Fort Lauderdale and nationwide. MK: Beyond the churrasco-style meats, what other menu highlights or dishes should guests not miss? NH: I recommend guests try the new Whole Branzino. The 2lbs. Fresh, mild white fish is blistered churrasco-style and served tableside with extra virgin olive oil, lemon, and parsley, offering a delicious enhancement to the Full Churrasco Experience. I also recommend guests try our dry-aged premium cuts that are dry-aged for a minimum of 42 days and are renowned for their intensified meat flavors and enhanced tenderness. The dry-aged Tomahawk Ribeye is the perfect enhancement to any meal to discover the tender, juicy, and robust flavors. MK: Can you expand a bit on your Market Table and its role in complementing the churrasco experience? NH: The Market Table plays a key role in complementing the churrasco experience by offering a variety of seasonal salads and soups, exotic vegetables, imported cheeses, smoked salmon, cured meats, and more. It features a wide selection of nutrient-dense, whole foods, including plant-based options, allowing guests to customize their meals based on their preferences. We continue to offer fresh ingredients and create limited time offerings such as the recently added Roasted Apple & Butternut Squash Salad, Seasonal Hummus, and Carrot Ginger Soup. This adds balance and variety to the rich, savory flavors of the churrasco experience, enhancing the overall discovery dining experience with vibrant, flavorful choices. Guests are welcome to visit the Market Table as many times as they’d like during their meal. MK: How does the restaurant cater to diners with dietary preferences or restrictions, such as vegetarians or gluten-free guests? NH: Unlike traditional steakhouses, Fogo offers a variety of dining options for every dietary tribe including keto, gluten-free, vegan, and more. We offer guests specialty dishes including Seared Tofu and Sesame Black Bean Pasta, Seafood Tower complete with Lobster Tails and snow crab legs, Cauliflower Steak, Fogo’s naturally gluten-free Market Table and more. MK: For first-time visitors, what tips or advice would you offer to ensure they get the most out of their dining experience? NH: For first-time guests, I always recommend they start their experience at the Market Table with seasonal salads and soups, exotic vegetables, imported cheeses, smoked salmon, cured meats, and more. Take your time to savor the flavors from the churrasco experience, and consider adding enhancements like the Whole Branzino or Wagyu Porterhouse, especially when dining with a large group as they’re perfect for sharing with the table to spark new discoveries of culinary favorites. And, no experience is complete without a Caipirinha cocktail, made with cachaça, lime, and sugar, which offers a refreshing and authentic Brazilian flavor. MK: What is your personal favorite item on the menu? NH: My personal favorite is the Fraldinha, which has a rich flavor and a salty bark due to our churrasco cooking style. I also enjoy the Picanha, the lamb chops, and the Porterhouse. MK: What is your personal favorite aspect of the dining experience at large? NH: My favorite aspect of the dining experience at Fogo is our variety of offerings. I consider myself to be a flexitarian, eating meat, fish, and vegan meals. The variety at Fogo allows me to accommodate my changing dietary preferences on a daily basis. I, along with our guests, are never limited to one option or one dietary tribe. MK: As Fort Lauderdale continues to grow as a culinary destination, how does Fogo de Chão aim to stay ahead of dining trends while maintaining its authenticity? NH: At Fogo, we offer customizable menu offerings for every daypart, including weekend brunch, All-Day Happy Hour at Bar Fogo, Lunch, Dinner, and fresh, seasonal soup and salads at the Market Table which is suited for all dietary lifestyles including pescatarian, keto, paleo, gluten-free and more. These aspects truly set us apart from other steakhouses. We hold quarterly wine dinners and monthly bar events that allow guests to indulge in a tailored menu with signature offerings including wagyu, with curated wine pairings to sample some of Fogo’s best offerings, encouraging guests to come back and indulge in their culinary favorites they discovered. From the interactive service of the gaucho chefs to the thoughtfully curated menu offerings, every visit to Fogo de Chão on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale is designed to create a memorable epicurean experience. As Broward County continues to thrive as a culinary destination, Fogo de Chão remains a beacon of authenticity, offering a dining experience that seamlessly marries the best of tradition and modernity. Previous Next

Here’s The Scoop South Florida! - Sweet Melody Ice Cream Shop Is Known For Its Small-Batch Flavors And Nostalgic, Music-Inspired Spirit South Florida Sun Times Mar 26, 2026 Fort Lauderdale Is About To Get Even Sweeter! Sweet Melody Ice Cream, The Beloved South Florida Ice Cream Shop Known For Its Small-Batch Flavors And Nostalgic, Music-Inspired Spirit, Is Expanding Into The 954 With The Grand Opening Of Its Third Location At The Hive In Flagler Village. Officially Opening Its Doors On Wednesday, April 1st, 2026 The New 691 Square-Foot Shop – Inspired By The 1960’s With A Rec Room Vibe And Vinyl Spinning All Day – Will Bring Sweet Melody’s Signature Scoops, Playful Atmosphere And Community-Driven Charm To One Of Fort Lauderdale’s Most Vibrant Neighborhoods. Dreamt up by Founder/Chief Executive Optimist Mike Romeu, Sweet Melody started out as a love letter to his daughter, Melody, and flourished from a passion project to a homegrown success story. After losing his job in 2015, Mike – a glass-half-full kind of guy – saw a serendipitous opportunity to dust off his untouched $50 ice cream maker and create something amazing right out of his apartment. Within those four walls, the vision for Sweet Melody, named for his daughter and his passion for music, originated, and the brand officially launched in 2016. The original ventanita made its grand debut in Kendall in September 2019, followed by the opening of the second shop at The Citadel in August 2024. A decade later, Sweet Melody has grown into a thriving concept with 2026 marking the brand’s 10-year anniversary and expansion into four locations with the opening of four new outposts this year, starting with the Fort Lauderdale shop in April, quickly followed by the brand’s new flagship location opening on Flagler Street in Fontainebleau come May, and two more shops to be announced later this year. Today, Sweet Melody continues to craft its ice cream in small batches using thoughtfully sourced ingredients, offering a menu that features both beloved staples and creative concoctions with the brand’s 12 classic flavors alongside four rotating, seasonally-inspired flavors, giving sweet seekers something new to try every time. Among the signature scoops is the Kooki Monster – a fun take on cookies & cream, made with infused vanilla ice cream loaded with homemade chocolate chip cookies and classic chocolate sandwich cookies; Strawberry Fields Whenever – strawberry ice cream with swirls of housemade honey-strawberry jam; Abuela’s Flan – inspired by Michel’s grandmother’s signature dessert, it features the caramel notes and chewy texture of a classic flan and Cookie Buttah – cookie butter ice cream loaded with Biscoff Cookies as well as more classic flavors such as Vanilla Bean, Ecuadorian Chocolate, Pistachio and Bourbon Pecan. Available until the end of May 2026, the current seasonally-inspired flavors featured in Sweet Melody’s Spring Series include Banana Pudding – vanilla pudding ice cream with layers of banana brown sugar, brandy caramel and buttery bites of housemade Nilla wafers; Tres Leches – vanilla scented coconut ice cream with silky Italian meringue and Tres Leches cake chunks; Jon Dough – cookie dough ice cream with chunks of housemade brown butter cookie dough and swirls of milk fudge; and Revenge of the Twix – Twix flavored ice cream with housemade Twix and gooey caramel. Sweet Melody’s vibrant flavor lineup also features delicious vegan-friendly options including Midnight Chocolate Truffle and Strawberry Banana Sorbet. As if the grand debut of Sweet Melody Fort Lauderdale wasn’t already sweet enough, the brand is featuring a signature flavor, The Hive – buttery vanilla ice cream, chocolate flakes and honeycomb candy, exclusively at its Flagler Village shop, and is teaming up with iconic, local concepts – including Heritage, Wells Coffee, Cookie Head and LoveLee Bakeshop – throughout the month of April to dream up creative flavors that will be offered only at the Fort Lauderdale location. Sweet Melody Fort Lauderdale is located at 908 North Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 at The Hive in Flagler Village. Hours of operation: Monday to Thursday from 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.; Friday from 4:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.; Saturday from 2:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.; and Sunday from 2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. For more information, please visit: www.sweetmelodyicecream.com ; Telephone: (754) 332-2372. Follow on Instagram: @SweetMelodyIceCream. Previous Next

City Of Hollywood Launches Turtle-Friendly Lighting Recognition Program March 2, 2023 Share This week marks the beginning of the 2023 Sea Turtle Nesting Season, which takes place every year from March 1st through October 31st. During this time, the City Of Hollywood’s “Turtle Friendly Lighting Ordinance” is in effect, when the City’s Hatchlings are attracted to light. On undeveloped beaches, the ocean horizon is lighter than the land so new hatchlings head toward the water. In an urban beach environment, artificial light from buildings can disorient hatchlings and attract them away from the ocean. Turtle friendly lighting can minimize disorientation and make Hollywood Beach more hospitable to these endangered species. The Broward County Sea Turtle Conservation Program (BCSTCP) documented 3,650 nests on the County's 24-mile coastline (including the Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park) in 2022. That’s a record for our area, and Hollywood’s sandy beach plays an important role in that success. Our beach is the desired nesting habitat for three species of endangered sea turtles: leatherbacks, loggerheads and greens. It is vital that everyone does their part to ensure future successful nesting seasons on Hollywood Beach. Sea Turtle Friendly Lighting Lighting near the beach should be "sea turtle-friendly" and follow these three criteria established by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): Keep it low: Fixtures should be mounted as low as possible to achieve their purpose and their bulbs should produce the lowest lumens (light output) necessary for the task. In addition to low lumens, keep the fixture shielded, the bulb, lamp or glowing lens should be shielded from the beach and the interior lights should not be visible from the beach. If you live near the beach, close your curtains, shades and blinds after sunset. One item you may not be aware of is, wavelength, no we aren't talking about the length of the ocean waves here. They are talking about the output, the fixtures/bulbs must produce long wavelength light (560 nm or longer) without filters, gels or lenses. Amber and red LEDs are good examples of these types of light. Also keep in mind that even lights from cell phones can also disturb nesting and hatching sea turtles. If you visit the beach at night during nesting season, keep your cell phone safely stowed in your pocket or bag. Turtle Friendly Lighting Recognition Pilot Program The City Of Hollywood has launched a Turtle Friendly Lighting Recognition Pilot Program. The goal of the program is to increase awareness and compliance with the City’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance by way of recognition of those property owners who are certified compliant. Hollywood’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance (§108, O-2011-07) requires that exterior lights be mounted as low in elevation as possible, shielded so that the light source is not visible from the beach, directed down and away from the beach and have a low wattage amber or red bulb. To reduce or eliminate the visibility of interior light from the beach, tinted glass or film must be installed on north, east and south facing doors and windows on new developments. Existing buildings can install window and door tint, move light fixtures away from windows, close the blinds and curtains, and turn off all unnecessary lights. To receive recognition, a property must fully comply with the City’s turtle friendly lighting ordinance (§108, O-2011-07). The certification process can be found at: www.HollywoodFL.org/TurtleLighting Apply today to be recognized by clicking the online application at: www.HollywoodFL.org/TurtleLighting < Previous News Next News >

CityPlace Doral To Host Bunny Trail Easter Bash Event On March 14th South Florida Sun Times Mar 11, 2026 The Free Event Will Provide An Opportunity For The Whole Family To Enjoy A Day Of Egg-Cellent Activities At The Fountain Plaza, Including An Easter Egg Trail, Live Music, Arts And Crafts, Games And Activities, Free Digital Photos With The Easter Bunny, A K-Pop Performance And Story Time With Michelle Martinez-Salom, The Author Of “Where Are You, Butterfly? A Beautiful Journey.” Gitanillas Dance Studio Will Present A Youth Flamenco Performance. Hop on over to the Bunny Trail! Families will receive a special trail map highlighting all the egg-citing stops throughout CityPlace Doral. As guests visit each location to collect their Easter eggs, they’ll earn a stamp along the way. Once their map is fully stamped, they can hippity-hop back to the registration table to turn it in for a chance to win an Easter basket bursting with prizes and gift cards from CityPlace Doral retailers. It’s a hop-filled adventure with sweet surprises around every corner. The Oasis experience at CityPlace Doral’s Fountain Plaza features a relaxing, open-air atmosphere for friends and family to enjoy grab-and-go bites from CityPlace Doral’s restaurants and enjoy South Florida’s weather. The Oasis incorporates Adirondack chairs, tables, umbrellas and oversized games such as Chess, Cornhole, Connect Four and more. Martinez-Salom is a Miami-born performer, author, educator, and ACSM-certified Exercise Physiologist. She studied musical theater at PAVAC (now New World School of the Arts) and has appeared in local commercials and films. She is the author of “Where Are You, Butterfly? A Beautiful Journey,” a children’s book following a monarch butterfly’s migration. Visitors are encouraged to tag @CityPlaceDoral for a chance to be featured on the Center’s Social Media channels. When: Saturday, March 14th, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Where: CityPlace Doral 8300 Northwest 36th Street Doral, Florida 33166 Cost: Bunny Trail Easter Bash Event is free and open to the community. Parking at CityPlace Doral is available for an additional charge in the parking garage. Valet service is also available. How: For more information, please visit: https://cityplacedoral.com/events . About CityPlace Doral: CityPlace Doral is an attractive leisure destination offering a collection of memorable dining, shopping, wellness and entertainment experiences. Featuring 250,000 Square Feet of retail space, CityPlace Doral is a master-planned, mixed-use development nestled in the dynamic employment center of Doral in the heart of Miami-Dade County. CityPlace Doral combines the vision of world-renowned architects, designers and artists creating the next crown jewel of prosperous dining, entertainment and upscale shopping in one of South Florida’s growing cities. CityPlace Doral includes more than 40 dining, shopping and entertainment destinations for all palates and walks of life, and the property’s entertainment retail component is anchored by a roster of first-class tenants from all over the country. For more information, visit: www.cityplacedoral.com . Or call: (786) 693-1849. Join the conversation and follow CityPlace Doral on Instagram, Facebook and X at: @CityPlaceDoral. Previous Next

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It's Time To LOL Again: Three Great Performances This Season In Aventura December 12, 2022 Share Comedy is returning to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, the Stand-Up Comedy Series presented by the city of Aventura features three great performances this season! The series will include the comedy of Bobby Collins, Modi and Henry Cho. Bobby Collins - January 19, 2023 Comedian Bobby Collins has distinguished himself as one of the Premier Comedians in our country. He has an ability to truthfully translate the human condition. Audiences across the country relate to his comedic characterizations as he exposes the humor of day-to-day situations as well as serving up resplendent rants on world events. Through precise physical timing and impeccable audience insight, he has honed his talents while performing from hole in the wall clubs to sold out theaters. Bobby Collins’ rise to top headlining, comedic master was inevitable. His true dedication to his craft is what keeps his vibrant shows consistently sold out. A native New Yorker, Collins possesses a confidence and genuine everyman likability that can only be earned. He knows what it’s like to work a day job, in order to pursue a dream. He’s flipped his share of burgers, as well as signing on as a substitute high school history teacher, to pay the bills – all the while performing in comedy clubs at night. Modi - February 8 - 9, 2023 Voted one of the top 10 comedians in New York City by The Hollywood Reporter, Modi is one of the comedy circuit’s most sought after performers. Featured on HBO, CBS, NBC, ABC, Comedy Central, Howard Stern, and E! Entertainment, Modi has received rave reviews in The New York Times, Time Out NY and The New York Post. Born in Tel Aviv, Israel, Modi emigrated with his family to the United States at the age of seven and was raised on Long Island. After graduating from Boston University, he worked as an investment banker until his first open-mic night made him realize that stand-up was his true calling. Equipped with a sharp wit and a knack for reading an audience, Modi has gone on to become a successful fixture in New York's vibrant comedy scene, often doing bits that incorporate his heritage, and he is a hit with diverse Jewish audiences as well as fans of all backgrounds and beliefs. Henry Cho - March 23, 2023 Henry’s TV credits include appearances on NBC’s The Tonight Show, CBS’s The Late, Late, Show, and NBC’s Young Comedians Special. He served two years as host of NBC’s Friday Night Videos and had many guest roles on various network sitcoms. Henry was co-creator, co-producer and co-writer of “The Henry Cho Show” on GAC. Henry’s one hour Comedy Central Special, “What’s That Clickin Noise?” is currently running and on Netflix. Henry can also be heard daily on Sirrus, XM, Blue Collar Radio and Pandora. He’s also a regular performer at the Grand Ole Opry. Some of Henry’s film credits include Universal’s McHale’s Navy with Tom Arnold and David Allen Greer; Say It Isn’t So with Heather Graham and Sally Field; and Material Girls with Hilary Duff and Angelica Houston produced by Madonna. Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. You can purchase tickets online at www.aventuracenter.org - by phone at: 877.311.7469 or 954.462.0222 or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: 954.660.6307. Parking Free parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 N.E. 188 Street in Aventura. < Previous News Next News >

Step Afrika! To Wow Audiences At The Parker January 15, 2025 Share Audiences won’t want to miss the opportunity to see Step Afrika!, the world’s first professional dance company dedicated to the tradition of stepping and one of the top 10 African American dance companies in the U.S. Step Afrika! will kick off Black History Month, performing in the Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker on January 29th at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Broward Center’s Mosaic Series. Step Afrika! is comprised of 17 full-time dancers—all college graduates—many who attended Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and are members of Historically Black Greek Fraternities and Sororities. Founded in 1994, as an exchange program with the Soweto Dance Theatre of Johannesburg, Step Afrika! is the first professional dance company in the world dedicated to the tradition of stepping and is the largest African American-led arts organization in Washington, DC, and Washington, DC’s only cultural ambassador. As part of the world’s first interactive stepping exhibit, thousands experience Step Afrika! at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture each day as part of the museum’s Explore More! interactive gallery. In addition, Step Afrika! engages 50,000 college students across the nation, teaches teamwork and discipline to 100 kids as part of the Summer Steps with Step Afrika! summer camp, and expands culture-based arts education for more than 20,000 Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia school students each year. The company engages tens of thousands each year through a 50-city tour of American colleges and theaters and performs globally as an official U.S. Cultural Ambassador. In 2023, Step Afrika! was inducted into the National Association of Campus Activities (NACA) Hall of Fame, the first dance company to earn this honor. Step Afrika! Founder C. Brian Williams was named a 2022 National Heritage Fellow and is featured in Roots of American Culture: A Cross-Country Visit with Living Treasures of the Folk and Traditional Arts (2022). Step Afrika!’s most recent international tours have promoted cultural dialogue and exchange in Jordan (2018), Ghana (2018). Croatia (2019), Ukraine (2019), Zambia (2019), Angola (2019), South Africa (2019), Dubai (2020), Poland (2022), Slovenia (2022), Bolivia (2022), and Kuwait (2023). There will be a free community workshop with members of Step Afirka! company on Tuesday, January 28th at the L.A. Lee YMCA/Mizell Community Center, 1409 Northwest 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311. For information about this workshop and details on registration, please email Gustavo Padrino at: gpadrino@browardcenter.org . Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - And at: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222. And in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. The Parker is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. The Broward Center 2024/2025 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. 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 850 performances each year to more than 600,000 patrons, displaying a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level, the Nicklaus Children’s 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 also manages The Parker, an iconic Fort Lauderdale venue, the Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on the main campus of Nova Southeastern University, and the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in Miami-Dade County, The Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Inc. receives and maintains funds to sustain, develop and secure the future of the Broward Center. The Broward Center is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org . The Parker The Parker is Fort Lauderdale’s iconic, heritage theater presenting concerts, comedy, dance, family fare and more. Beautifully renovated in 2021, The Parker offers audiences enhanced entertainment and hospitality experiences. The neo-classical Lillian S. Wells Hall features outstanding acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, wide rows and continental seating. The grand S. Donald Sussman Lobby, Bernie Peck’s Bar, the intimate Haller Club, and the private members’ lounge, The Place To Be, provide ample opportunities for audiences to enjoy culture, cocktails and conversation with every visit to the theater. For more information, visit: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com < Previous News Next News >

The Grand Klezmer Concert: For many retirees and seniors, this is THE EVENT OF THE YEAR January 26, 2024 Share Zevy Steiger and Aryeh Leib Hurwitz, two world-renowned chazzanim and the Miami Klezmer Band will delight South Florida with authentic Klezmer, Yiddish and other great Jewish music! These two cantors, together with beyond amazing musicians will rock the house with their magnificent voices, and beyond amazing musicians. United Jewish Generations, a Chabad organization whose mission is to enhance the quality of life for the Jewish senior citizen population, is proud to present this “out-of-this-world” concert which is a true delicacy for seniors.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy this beautiful music with the highest caliber musicians and cantors, and we therefore provide the most incredible entertainment and yet we offer tickets at a price everyone can afford,” says Rabbi Menachem Smith, Director of United Jewish Generations.
The performance will take place on Sunday, February 4th at 2:00 p.m. at the Julius Littman Performing Arts Theatre at 17011 Northeast 19th Avenue in North Miami Beach. 
Tickets are priced at $10, $15, $20, $25, $36, $50, and $100. Tickets can be purchased online at: www.unitedjewishgenerations.com - the link is at the end of this article - or in North Miami Beach/Aventura at Aspaclaria Judaica (Ticket Sales from 10AM-2PM ONLY) at 18240 West Dixie Highway. Tickets can also be purchased in Miami Beach at Torah Treasures at 524 W. 41st Street, If you need transportation or help purchasing tickets, please call: (954) 458-6000.

This group of exceptional Klezmerists includes internationally acclaimed Clarinetist Jaime Bronsztein from the Jaime Bronsztein Klezmer Band, Accordianist Pinchus Sadkhin originally the director of the Tumba Lalaika Band in Chicago, Violinist Dr Steffen Zeichner from FIU School of Music, and other incredible Klezmerists. Attendees are encouraged to buy tickets early to attain the best seats, and also keep in mind that this event has sold out in the past! For more info, please email: admin@unitedjewishgenerations.com. Or call: (954) 458-6000. You can purchase tickets at: https://www.unitedjewishgenerations.com/templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/6264704/jewish/Grand-Klezmer-Concert.htm < Previous News Next News >

5 Things To Know About the Delta Variant: The Predominant COVID-19 Strain Has Put The Focus Back On Prevention By Kathy Katella - Yale Medicine August 19, 2021 Share Even as people began to feel some hope - or at least, have some cautious optimism, early this summer, that the Pandemic, could recede to the background, there was still the threat that new mutations, of the COVID-19 Virus, could bring it back and it might be, even stronger. A major worry right now is Delta, a highly contagious SARS-CoV-2 Virus Strain, which, was first identified in India, in December. It swept rapidly through that country and Great Britain, before, reaching the U.S., where it is now, The Predominant Variant. The Centers For Disease Control And Prevention (CDC), described The Delta Variant, as more transmissible, than the Common Cold, Influenza, as well as the Viruses that cause: Smallpox, MERS, SARS, Ebola and even called it, as contagious as Chickenpox, in an internal document, a copy of which, was obtained by and reported on, in The New York Times. The highest spread of Cases and severe outcomes, is happening in places with Low Vaccination Rates, virtually all hospitalizations and deaths, have been among the Unvaccinated, The CDC says. But, The CDC released data in July, that showed, Vaccinated People, can also transmit The Delta Variant, which officials, did not believe to be the case with other Variants, which led the agency to make a prompt revision, to its masking guidelines. Inci Yildirim, M.D., Ph.D., a Yale Medicine Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist and a Vaccinologist, isn’t surprised by what’s happening. “All viruses evolve over time and undergo changes, as they spread and replicate,” she says. From what we know so far, people who are fully Vaccinated against the COVID-19, continue to have strong protection against COVID-19, compared to those, who aren’t. But anyone who is Unvaccinated and not practicing preventive strategies, is at high risk for infection, by the new Variant, doctors say. Here are five things you need to know about the Delta Variant. 1. The Delta Variant, Is More Contagious Than, The Other Virus Strains Are: One thing that is unique about The Delta Variant, is how quickly, it is spreading, says F. Perry Wilson, M.D., a Yale Medicine Epidemiologist. Around the world, he says, “Delta, will certainly accelerate the Pandemic.” The first Delta Variant Case, was identified in December 2020, The Delta Variant, soon became the Predominant Strain of the Virus, in both India and Great Britain. By the end of July, The Delta Variant, was the cause, of more than 80% of new U.S. COVID-19 Cases, according to The CDC's estimates. The July 2021 CDC report, on The Delta Variant's transmissibility, came after an outbreak that occurred in Provincetown, Massachusetts, after a crowded July 4th Weekend, which, quickly turned into a cluster of at least 470 Cases. While the number of reported Breakthrough Cases in general, has been very low in the U.S., three quarters of those infected in Provincetown, were people who had been immunized. According to The CDC, even people with “Breakthrough Cases,” carry tremendous amounts of Virus in their nose and throat, according to preliminary reports, it can spread the Virus to others, whether they have symptoms or not. The CDC has labeled Delta as, “A Variant Of Concern,” using a designation, also given to The Alpha Strain, that had first appeared, in Great Britain, The Beta Strain, first surfaced in South Africa and The Gamma Strain, was identified in Brazil. (The new naming conventions for the Variants, were established by the WHO as an alternative, to numerical names. “It’s actually quite dramatic, how the growth rate will change,” says Dr. Wilson, commenting on The Delta Variant's spread in the U.S., in June. The Delta Variant, was spreading 50% faster than Alpha, which was 50% more contagious, than the Original Strain of SARS-CoV-2, he says. “In a completely unmitigated environment, where no one is Vaccinated or wearing masks, it’s estimated, that the average person, infected with the original COVID-19 Strain, will infect 2.5 other people,” Dr. Wilson says. “In the same environment, The Delta Variant, would spread from one person to maybe, 3.5 or 4, other people.” “Because of the math, it grows exponentially and more quickly,” he says. “So, what seems like a fairly modest rate of infectivity, can cause a Virus, to dominate very quickly.” 2. Unvaccinated People Are At Risk: People who have not been fully Vaccinated against COVID-19 are the most, at risk. In the U.S., there is a disproportionate number of Unvaccinated people in Southern and Appalachian states including Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, Missouri and West Virginia, where Vaccination rates are low. (In some of these states, the number of Cases is on the rise and even as, some other states are lifting restrictions, because, their cases are going down). Kids and young people, are a concern as well. “A recent study from the United Kingdom, showed that children and adults under 50, were 2.5 times more likely, to become infected with The Delta Variant,” says Dr. Yildirim and so far, no Vaccine has been approved, for children 5 to 12 in the U.S., although the U.S. and a number of other countries, have either authorized Vaccines for adolescents and young children, or are, considering them. “As older age groups get Vaccinated, those who are younger and Unvaccinated, will be at a higher risk of getting COVID-19 with any Variant,” says Dr. Yildirim. “But The Delta Variant, seems to be impacting younger age groups, more than Previous Variants did.” 3. The Delta Variant, could lead to 'Hyperlocal Outbreaks': If The Delta Variant, continues to move fast enough, to accelerate the Pandemic, Dr. Wilson, says that the biggest questions will be, about the heightened transmissibility, on how many people will get The Delta Variant and then, how fast, will it spread? The answers could depend, in part, on where you live and how many people, in your location, are vaccinated, he says. “I call it ‘Patchwork Vaccination,’ where you have these pockets, that are highly Vaccinated, that are adjacent to places, that only have, a 20% Vaccination,” Dr. Wilson says. “The problem is, that this allows the virus to hop, skip and jump, from one poorly Vaccinated area, to another one.” In some cases, a Low-Vaccination Town, that is surrounded by High Vaccination Areas, could end up with the Virus, contained within its borders and the result could be, “Hyperlocal Outbreaks,” he says. “Then, the Pandemic, could look different, than what we’ve seen before, where, there are real hotspots, around the country.” Some experts say the U.S., is in a good position, because of its relatively, High Vaccination Rates—or that conquering The Delta Variant, will take a race between Vaccination Rates and The Variant. But if The Delta Variant keeps moving fast, multiplying infections in the U.S., could steepen, an upward COVID-19 Curve, Dr. Wilson says. So, instead of a three or four year Pandemic, that peters out, once enough people are Vaccinated or are Naturally Immune, (because they have had the Virus), an uptick in Cases, would be compressed into a shorter period of time. “That sounds almost like a good thing,” Dr. Wilson says. “It’s not.” If too many people are infected at once in a particular area, the local health care system will become overwhelmed and more people, will die, he says. While that might be less likely to happen in the U.S., it will be the case in other parts of the world, he adds. “That’s something, we have to worry about, a lot.” 4. There Is Still More To Learn About The Delta Variant: One important question is, whether or not, The Delta Variant's Strain, will make you sicker, than the Original Virus would. But many scientists say, they don’t know yet. Early information about the severity of The Delta Variant's Study, included a Study from Scotland, that showed The Delta Variant, was about twice as likely as, The Alpha Variant, to result in hospitalization, in Unvaccinated Individuals, but, other data has shown, no significant differences. Another question focuses on, how The Delta Variant, affects the body. There have been reports of symptoms, that are different, than those associated, with the Original COVID-19 Strain, Dr. Yildirim says. “It seems like cough and loss of smell, are less common, headache, sore throat, runny nose and fever, are present, based on the most recent surveys in the U.K., where more than 90%, of the Cases, are due to the Delta Variant's Strain,” she says. It’s unclear, whether The Delta Variant, could cause more Breakthrough Cases with infections, in people who have been Vaccinated or have A Natural Immunity, from a prior COVID-19 Infection. This question is being revisited, after the Provincetown Outbreak. “Breakthrough is a big question,” Dr. Wilson says. “At least with Immunity, from the MRNA Vaccines, it doesn’t look, like it will be a problem.” A Public Health England Analysis (In a preprint, that has not yet been peer-reviewed) and shown that, at least two Vaccines are effective, against The Delta Variant. The Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine was 88% effective, against symptomatic diseases and 96% effective, against hospitalizations, from The Delta Variant, in the studies, while Oxford AstraZeneca, (which is not an MRNA Vaccine) was 60% effective, against symptomatic disease and 93% effective against hospitalizations. The studies tracked participants, who were fully Vaccinated, with both of the recommended doses. Moderna, has also reported on studies (not yet peer-reviewed) that showed, its Vaccine, to be effective, against The Delta Variant and from Several Other Mutations, (researchers noted, only a ”modest reduction in Neutralizing Titers,” against The Delta Variant, when compared to its effectiveness against the Original COVID-19). “So, your risk is significantly lower, than someone who has not been Vaccinated and you are safer than you were, before you got your vaccines,” Dr. Yildirim says. Will Vaccinated People need Booster Shots to protect against The Delta Variant? Some experts say, it’s too soon to know, whether we will need a Booster modified to target The Delta Variant or to bolster protection against the Original COVID-19. But both Pfizer and Moderna, are working on boosters, although, they would still face the hurdle, of getting FDA Authorization for them. While the Biden Administration Officials have not made a commitment to boosters, in July, it said a third shot of the two MRNA Vaccines, might be necessary for people over 65 years of age and those with Compromised Immune Systems. Johnson & Johnson also has reported that its Vaccine, is effective against The Delta Variant, but one recent study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed or published in a scientific journal, suggests that its Vaccine, is less effective against The Delta Variant, which has prompted discussion, over whether or not, J&J Recipients, might also, need a Booster. There are additional questions and concerns about The Delta Variant, including The Delta Variant Plus, A Sub-Variant Of The Delta Variant, that has been found in the U.S., the U.K. and in, other countries. “The Delta Variant Plus, has one additional mutation, to what The Delta Variant has,” says Dr. Yildirim. This mutation, called K417N, affects the Spike Protein, that The COVID-19 Virus, needs to infect cells and that is the main target, for the MRNA and other Vaccines, she says. “Delta Plus Variant, has been reported first in India, but, the type of mutation, was reported in Variants, such as: The Beta Variant, that emerged earlier. More data is needed to determine, the actual rate of spread and impact of this New Variant on Disease Burdens and Outcomes,” Dr. Yildirim adds. 5. Vaccination Is The Best Protection Against The Delta Variant: The most important thing you can do to protect yourself, from The Delta Variant, is to get fully Vaccinated, the doctors say. At this point, that means, if you get a Two-Dose Vaccine, like The Pfizer or The Moderna, for example, you must get both shots and then wait, the recommended two-week period, for those shots to take full effect. Whether or not you are Vaccinated, it’s also important, to follow the CDC's Prevention Guidelines, that are available for Vaccinated and Unvaccinated People. “Like everything in life, this is an ongoing risk assessment,” says Dr. Yildirim. “If it is sunny and you’ll be outdoors, you put on, sunscreen. If you are in a crowded gathering, potentially with Unvaccinated People, you put your mask on and keep Social Distancing. If you are Unvaccinated and eligible for the Vaccine, the best thing you can do is, to get, Vaccinated.” Face masks can provide additional protection and the WHO, has encouraged mask-wearing even among, Vaccinated People. The CDC updated its Guidance, in July to recommend that both Vaccinated and Unvaccinated individuals, wear masks in public, indoor settings, in areas of high transmission to help prevent The Delta Variant’s spread and to protect others, especially those who are Immunocompromised, Unvaccinated, or at risk for severe disease. The agency is also recommending that universal, indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students and visitors to K-12 schools. Of course, there are many people who cannot get the Vaccine, because their doctor has advised them against it, for health reasons or because personal logistics or difficulties, have created roadblocks or they may choose, not to get it. Will The Delta Variant, be enough to encourage those who can get Vaccinated, to do so? No one knows for sure, but it’s possible, says Dr. Wilson, who encourages anyone, who has questions about Vaccinations, to talk to their family doctor. “When there are Local Outbreaks, Vaccine Rates go up,” Dr. Wilson says. “We know, that if someone you know, gets really sick and goes to the hospital, it can change your risk calculus, a little bit. That could start happening more. I’m hopeful that we will see, The Vaccine Rates, go up.” Katella, Kathy. “5 Things To Know About the Delta Variant.” Yale Medicine. Originally published: June 28th, 2021. Updated: August 3rd, 2021. Please see: www.yalemedicine.org/news/5-things-to-know-delta-variant-covid ” < Previous News Next News >

Room-By-Room Tips For Clutter-Free Spaces By Feature Impact Sep 17, 2026 A Well-Organized Home Isn't About Perfection. It's About Creating Systems That Make Everyday Life Easier. When Everything Has A Place, It's Simpler To Maintain And Keep Clutter From Creeping Back In. Experts often recommend tackling organization one room at a time, sorting items into categories like keep, donate or discard before finding the right storage solutions. If your home could use a refresh, start small and work your way through each space with these organization tips. Entryway A dedicated "drop zone" ensures items used daily don't end up scattered throughout the house. However, the entryway is also one of the easiest places for clutter to pile up. To keep it tidy: • Install wall hooks for coats, bags and backpacks • Use a small bench or basket for shoes • Add a tray or bowl for keys, sunglasses and everyday essentials Kitchen One of the most-used rooms in nearly every home, kitchen organization is key to making daily routines smoother. To stay organized: • Clear unnecessary items off countertops • Group pantry items by category, such as snacks, baking supplies and canned goods • Store rarely used appliances in cabinets or a pantry Living Room Living rooms often serve many purposes, from relaxing and entertaining to working or studying. The key is creating storage that blends seamlessly with your decor: • Use decorative baskets for blankets, magazines and toys • Choose furniture with hidden storage like ottomans or coffee tables • Keep remotes and small electronics in a designated tray or organizer Bedroom Your bedroom should feel like a sanctuary. Too much clutter can make it harder to relax and unwind. To maintain order: • Keep only essential items on nightstands • Rotate seasonal clothing to free up closet space • Use under-bed storage bins for extra linens or off-season clothes Bathroom Bathrooms often have limited space, so smart storage solutions are essential: • Keep countertops clear except for frequently used products • Separate backup supplies from daily-use items, which should be stored for quick access • Use over-the-door organizers for towels or extra storage Home Office Whether you work remotely or simply manage household tasks, an organized office helps you stay focused. To improve productivity and reduce distractions: • Digitize or recycle unnecessary paperwork • Use desk trays and organizers for supplies • Create labeled folders or a filing system for important documents Storage Areas Garages, basements and storage rooms can quickly become catch-all spaces. A little planning can make them much easier to manage: • Label bins for seasonal decorations, tools or sports equipment • Use shelving and wall storage to maximize vertical space • Keep an inventory list for larger storage areas With a little planning and the right habits, a well-organized home becomes easier to maintain. Find more ideas at: www.eLivingtoday.com . Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Previous Next