Fit And Fun Aventura: Happy One Year of Zumba In The Park May 16, 2023 Share The City of Aventura is known for its beautiful homes, world-renowned shopping centers, and luxurious lifestyle. But did you know that the city also offers Complimentary Zumba Classes to its residents? That's right! The city is encouraging its residents of all ages to stay fit and healthy by participating in this fun fitness program. The Zumba Program in Aventura is led by a certified Zumba instructor who teaches aerobic movements and Latin dance steps. This combination makes for a fun and exciting workout routine that is not only beneficial for the body but also for the mind. The program aims to make exercise a more enjoyable and less daunting task, especially for those who are not fond of traditional gym workouts. Zumba is a form of exercise that originated in Colombia in the 1990’s and has since gained popularity all over the world. It involves dance and aerobic movements set to lively Latin music, making it a perfect way to get moving while having fun. It is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that can help you burn calories and improve your endurance. Moreover, it is low-impact, making it an ideal workout for people of all ages and fitness levels. The City of Aventura recognizes the importance of staying active and healthy, and it is committed to providing its residents with opportunities to do so. The Complimentary Zumba Program is one of the many initiatives aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle among its residents. By offering this program, the city hopes to encourage more people to get active and take charge of their health. The Zumba Program is not only beneficial for Physical Health, but it also has Mental Health Benefits. Dancing is a form of self-expression that can help reduce Stress, Anxiety, and Depression. Moreover, it can boost self-confidence and improve overall mood. Participating in the program is an excellent way to meet new people and make friends, which can further enhance one's mental well-being. If you're interested in participating in the Complimentary Zumba Program, there are a few things you need to know. First, the program is open to all Aventura residents, regardless of their age or fitness level. So, whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or a beginner, you're welcome to join. Second, the program is led by a certified Zumba instructor, which means you're in good hands. The instructor will guide you through the movements and ensure that you're doing them correctly to avoid any injuries. Third, you should bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the workout. The program can be intense, so it's essential to drink plenty of water to avoid Dehydration. So, if you're an Aventura resident looking for a fun way to stay fit and healthy, be sure to check out this fantastic program every Thursday at 9:00 a.m. at Founders Park, 3105 Northeast 190th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Registration Registration is open and spots are limited. All participants must be registered prior to attending. Registration can be completed exclusively online only with a valid and existing account at: www.cityofaventura.com/ors Remember to bring a positive attitude and a refillable water bottle, and get ready to dance your way to better health! For more information, visit: www.cityofaventura.com - Contact Founders Park at: (305) 466-0183. Or: parksrec@cityofaventura.com . < Previous News Next News >

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 >

A New Year – A New Venezuela? By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper Jan 7, 2026 Happy New Year! It Has Been A Crazy Few Weeks, Nationally! I Joined With The Many Floridians Who Are Thrilled To See Maduro Behind Bars Where He Belongs. Even When Biden And Harris Were In Office, They Issued A Bounty Of $25 Million For Information That Would Lead To His Arrest. In July, Trump Doubled It. Political Posturing Cannot Change The Fact This Is A Welcomed Event For So Many Of Our Residents That Fled Venezuela. I know so many people that have shared stories of their businesses being torn away from them. Large and small, simply in a government takeover. Guised as independence and a better life for all simply became another failed nation like Cuba. Family businesses that employed many citizens shuttered. Democracy gone and trampled. I had the chance to visit Venezuela on a cruise years ago when the government began taking over stores. At first, it was recommended not to get off the ship, but I wanted to witness what was taking place. We hired a professional driver that did not leave our side. There were lines in front of every store. We drove to a shopping mall that was about the size of the old Broward Mall. It was right before Christmas, but the lot was virtually empty. It was really eerie, almost post-apocalyptic, the three of us walked about 20 minutes in the mall with most shops shuttered. The ones that were open had their gates partly closed for safety. I went into one which sold cosmetics to check the prices. In U.S. Dollars, a simple bottle of Calvin Klein was $375 Dollars. The only store with a line was a toy store. The gate was closed and opened, only allowing a few buyers in at a time. We drove a bit further to a restaurant on the water. It was lovely and the only place that was crowded. We had to insist that our driver remain and eat with us as workers were not allowed. They had to eat outside. I am sharing this due to the fact that many people have an opinion, but they do not have experience. They go off of online commentary without knowledge and worse without facts. Sure, these are historic times. Yes, there is uncertainty, but it is the right thing. Could you imagine our police officers coming to a commission meeting and having to tell us they are doing a drug raid? I do not think so. Even with the shock and awe Maduro knew his days were numbered. The question remains how long will the newly sworn in President remain in power. 283 of the officials who won the election last May were sworn in. The one main problem is that these are still mostly Marxist and socialist. According to reports there will be some time until a new election, but America will be working to get the country back on its feet. The oil companies’ involvement which is being called out as Trump takeover of the nation’s oil assets is not the full picture. Actually, it's Exxon and Mobile going back in and taking back over the assets they owned that were stripped away in 2007 without just compensation. If helping the economy helps the people of Venezuela it will be all worth it. Let’s hope the plan works and the country does get back on its feet. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org. Please visit me on my Facebook page at: Mayor Joy Cooper. Like! Follow! And share! Previous Next

They Are The Experts: 1st Priority Restoration - The Mold & Water Damage Company That Work Directly With Your Insurance Thu Jun 02 2022 04:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

An Evening With Mary Morris, Author Of Gateway To The Moon Jewish Connection News Jun 4, 2025 On A Warm June Evening In Coral Gables, A Literary Crowd Will Gather At The Beloved Independent Bookstore Books & Books For What Promises To Be An Unforgettable Night Of Storytelling, Music And Mystery. Acclaimed Novelist Mary Morris, Celebrated For Her Evocative Prose And Rich Storytelling, Will Take Center Stage To Present Her Latest Novel—A Lyrical And Haunting Work That Explores Family Secrets, Wartime Silence And The Redemptive Power Of Art. Titled Gateway to the Moon, the novel is quintessential Morris: intimate in scale but expansive in its emotional reach. Best known for her award-winning works such as The Jazz Palace and Nothing to Declare, Morris returns with a gripping, layered story that blends the elements of historical fiction, mystery and a deeply personal search for identity. On Wednesday, June 11th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m., Morris will read from the novel, discuss her inspirations and reflect on the historical undercurrents that inform the narrative. The evening will also feature a musical performance by Susana Behar, a renowned Miami-based singer whose work in Sephardic and Latin American folk music weaves beautifully into the novel’s themes of memory, exile and rediscovery. Behar, whose textured vocals and passion for storytelling through song have earned her critical acclaim, will offer a poignant complement to Morris’s prose. Her presence adds a sensory richness to the event—one that mirrors the emotional and historical resonance of the novel itself. Gateway to the Moon centers on Laura, an artist at a personal and creative crossroads, who is haunted by the disappearance of her mother, Viola, three decades earlier. Viola vanished one day without warning, leaving behind only her purse, keys and a collection of eerie paintings featuring a red house—each inscribed with the cryptic message, “I will not be here forever.” This mysterious legacy propels Laura back to Italy, the place of her mother’s early life and the backdrop of long-buried family secrets. What follows is a moving and suspenseful journey as Laura travels from the coastal town of Brindisi through the Puglia countryside, tracing the fragments of Viola’s life. As she uncovers hidden details of her mother’s past—including her silence about her wartime childhood and her insistence that she was an orphan—Laura begins to see the ways in which history, particularly Italy’s lesser-known experiences during World War II, has shaped her family’s trajectory. In a recent interview, Morris explained that the story was inspired by both personal and historical curiosities. “I’ve always been fascinated by what we inherit—not just genetically, but emotionally, artistically, historically,” she said. “This novel is about a daughter trying to make sense of the silence her mother left behind. In doing so, she comes to understand not only who her mother was, but who she herself is.” Indeed, Gateway to the Moon is as much about solving a mystery as it is about grappling with identity and legacy. Morris’s depiction of post-war Italy is textured and immersive, evoking the sensory details of village life and the shadow of conflict that lingers across generations. The novel’s emotional resonance lies in its willingness to explore loss—not only of people, but of memory, language and connection. As readers follow Laura north through Naples and Turin, the red house in Viola’s paintings becomes both a literal and metaphorical destination. It is a symbol of the past that cannot be undone but can be understood. Morris's writing is at once lyrical and grounded, full of psychological depth and historical insight. The event at Books & Books will offer attendees a rare opportunity to hear directly from Morris about her creative process and the years of research that shaped the novel. With Behar’s music infusing the evening with the emotional tone of the story’s Mediterranean setting, the night promises to be an evocative celebration of art in its many forms. For those who have followed Mary Morris’s career, this latest novel confirms her as a master of storytelling with a gift for weaving personal drama into the fabric of history. And for new readers, Gateway to the Moon is an invitation into a world where the past is never quite past and where love—though complicated—is the ultimate inheritance. Event Details Date: Wednesday, June 11th, 2025 Time: 7:00 p.m. Location: Books & Books, 265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida 33134 Special Musical Performance: Susana Behar For more information about the event, contact Books & Books at: (305) 442-4408. Previous Next

Hollywood Boulevard Streetscape Project Underway May 11, 2023 Share Construction began this week on the $14.5M streetscape improvement project for Hollywood Boulevard in downtown. The redesign of the Boulevard from 21st Avenue to Young Circle will enhance the corridor aesthetics, improve the pedestrian experience and promote redevelopment in throughout downtown. Businesses will remain open, and the sidewalks will be maintained during the construction period. Construction is scheduled to be completed by summer 2024. Each phase of the project is anticipated to last for approximately 3 months, detours will be in-place to route motorists around the construction zones. Improvements will include maintaining the existing center medium with its extensive tree canopy and diagonal parking spaces. The project will convert the diagonal parking on the north and south curbs fronting the buildings to parallel parking. The additional area gained will be dedicated to widening the sidewalk to increase the outdoor café zones. The new, wider sidewalks will be finished using decorative concrete shell pavers in multiple shades of gray in a striking geometric design. The cross-section of the streetscape will be modified to implement a curbless transition between the sidewalk and parallel parking to create a plaza-like space. During events such as parades or weekend festivals, where vehicle access is curtailed, pedestrians will be able to safely walk the new plaza-like configuration of the Boulevard without the need to step up or down a curb, creating a safer and more pleasant pedestrian experience. New landscape material was selected to provide adequate shade for pedestrians on the sidewalks while improving visibility to the active storefronts of the historic district. New energy-efficiency historically inspired vintage lighting has been selected to complement the new streetscape and historic quality of the district. In addition, the project includes the replacement of the water line on the north side of Hollywood Boulevard with a new water main; this work has been closely coordinated with the City of Hollywood’s Public Utilities Department. For further information, please call or visit the project’s website at: www.hollywoodboulevardstreetscapesproject.com or contact Hollywood CRA Project Manager Francisco Diaz Mendez at: 954-924-2980. Or: FDiaz-Mendez@hollywoodfl.org . Get Prepared Now is the time to get ready, get some valuable information at the Hurricane Preparedness Meeting with Guest Speaker Erik Salna, Associate Director for Education and Outreach at the International Hurricane Research Center at Florida International University. The event will take place, May 16th from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Orangebrook Golf and Country Club at 400 Entrada Drive. City staff and guest speaker Erik Salna will discuss the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season, including the forecast, City operations and important safety information. < Previous News Next News >

A Lasting Legacy: Hallandale Beach Principal Carlton Campbell Has Impacted So Many Lives November 2, 2023 Share In a city that is 95 years old there are many individuals that have left a lasting mark on our history. Last Wednesday many of us that are involved with the city and our schools received the tragic news that beloved Principal Carlton Campbell had died in a car accident. The news shocked many to their core including me. There are certain people that are destined to leave a lasting legacy. Teachers are often the people that impact future generations. I believe every one of us can think back to the one teacher that truly connected and made a difference on how we felt and inspired us to become better. They cultivate an environment of learning that sets the stage for future leaders and pioneers. Back in the 1980’s when Carlton graduated from Hallandale High I am sure his teachers knew he was going to succeed but were not aware that his path would bring him back to pay it forward as principal of the school where it all began. Hallandale High School set the stage for him to receive a scholarship to Ball University. He then coached football in Wisconsin before coming back to South Florida. I know and it showed through his action and commitment, he always wanted to make sure his students had the same if not better opportunities. I feel blessed that I had the great gift of getting to know Principal Campbell. When he set out to rebuild the football stadium where he once played I had that chance to see his passion in action. I can vividly recall meeting in the Library at HHS and discussing the future of the school's campus. Like many eastern schools the facility was built in the 70’s and was slated to be replaced with a new school. That never happened as the state stopped funding replacement schools. The football field was a mess and flooded frequently. So that was the goal. At that joint public meeting then City Manager R.J. Intindola, Mayor Dorothy Ross, myself and the school board staff set out to lobby for funding. We ended up with a partnership between the School and the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency to build the 800,000 plus field and track. The agreement included that the facility would be shared with our PAL athletes to play when it was not being used by the school. To this day the partnership still exists. Principal Campbell created a lasting legacy for HHS. He created an environment that created one of the best statewide football programs. Many students signed up with leading colleges and became NFL Players. It did not stop there. Principal Carlton also created a wonderful drama program and band program and many other programs to create future leaders. When I heard that rather than retiring Principal Campbell was assigned back to Hallandale Beach to lead Gulfstream K-8 I was thrilled. I knew there were great things in store for the school and especially the students. His plan was to give Hallandale Beach another 5 years. When I heard the news that he died, I was profoundly saddened on so many levels. I felt pain for his wife, three boys and his entire family. I was saddened to lose a friend and someone that I looked to for his knowledge and ability to address the needs of the school. I was extremely sad for the many students at Gulfstream who he loved as his own. I was also sad for the staff that was just settling in under his great leadership. As my Dad always said, there are certain mysteries of life. Death cannot be explained, especially so sudden and tragic as this. I had a chance to visit the school last Wednesday to share my condolences. I shared that Principal Carlton was doing what he loved. He was not just a husband, father and brother, he was an amazing educator, mentor and friend. He was and will be remembered as an amazing leader, a Principals Principal. It is ironic that in his last message to the school posted on Gulfstream’s K-8 website where he was reviewing the opening of school, he ended with this inspirational quote: Life is so short. We spend so much time sweating the small stuff; worrying, complaining, gossiping, comparing, wishing, wanting, and waiting for something bigger and better instead of focusing on all the simple blessings that surround us every day. Life is so fragile and all it takes is a single moment to change everything you take for granted. Focus on what’s important and be grateful! You are Blessed, Believe it! Live your life and leave no regrets! ~ Melanie M. Koulouris Rest In Peace Carlton Campbell, you have left a lasting legacy! < Previous News Next News >

A Night Of Unity, Music And Mission: Zaka’s 35th Anniversary Benefit Electrifies New Symphony Hall Jewish Connection News Dec 18, 2025 Nearly 3,000 People Packed The Sold-Out Newark Symphony Hall On Sunday Night For An Unforgettable Celebration Of ZAKA’s 35 Years Of Lifesaving Chessed. The Atmosphere Inside The Theater Was Nothing Short Of Electric, Matched Only By The Tens Of Thousands Who Joined The Livestream From Around The World To Support ZAKA’s Sacred Mission. Hosted by Meaningful Minute’s Nachi Gordon, the evening launched straight into its star-studded musical lineup. Avraham Fried, Benny Friedman, Shulem Lemmer, Itzik Dadya and Shalsheles lit up the stage with powerful, soulful performances accompanied by Freilach’s exhilarating orchestration. Midway through the night, the crowd erupted when Baruch Levine made a surprise appearance, delivering an emotional performance alongside fellow performers that became one of the event’s defining moments. More than a concert, the gathering stood as a tribute to ZAKA’s 4,000 volunteers who have responded to tragedy with unwavering faith, compassion and courage. For 35 years, ZAKA has stepped into the most painful moments, preserving life, honoring the dead and upholding the sanctity of humanity. “Tonight is more than a milestone; it is a living testament to the holy work our volunteers do every day,” said ZAKA CEO Dubi Weissenstern. “Our teams run toward pain so others can find comfort. They bring dignity and light where there is chaos and loss. Our concert honors their courage and the supporters who make it possible.” The emotional weight of ZAKA’s mission resonated throughout the hall, especially in light of recent years’ tragedies. On October 7, 2023, ZAKA teams were among the first to arrive at the massacre sites in southern Israel, working tirelessly to recover victims with dignity. Since then, volunteers have continued responding across the country as rockets, missiles and drones from Hezbollah, the Houthis and Iran have threatened Israeli communities. “35 years is not just an anniversary; it is a responsibility,” said ZAKA U.S. Executive Director Moshe Rozenberg. “The need never rests and neither do our volunteers. Through unity, music and faith, we continue to strengthen the hands of those who show up day and night for Am Yisrael.” This year’s event raised critical funds for ZAKA’s 16 units across Israel and around the globe, including rapid medical response, search and rescue, dive teams, international disaster deployments and culturally sensitive recovery units serving Jewish, Arab, Bedouin and Druze communities. As the final notes faded and the sold-out crowd streamed out into the Newark night, one feeling lingered above all: unity, purpose and profound gratitude for those who stand ready at every hour for Klal Yisrael. Founded to honor the dead in accordance with religious tradition, ZAKA has evolved into a full-scale emergency response network, with over 4,000 trained volunteers operating 24/7 across Israel to honor the dead, aid the living and bring dignity in times of devastation. Today, it operates a wide range of units – from rapid medical response and search and rescue to water recovery to culturally sensitive burial teams serving Israel’s Jewish, Bedouin, Arab and Druze communities to international units deploying at a moment’s notice to crises across the globe. For more information, visit: https://zakaworld.org/ . Previous Next

Earn Up To $25,000: To Improve Your Commercial Property In Hollywood July 26, 2023 Share The City of Hollywood Commercial Property Improvement Program (CPIP) is available to Hollywood businesses interested in Improving the Facade of their Commercial or Industrial Building. Grant Funding for Half of Exterior Improvement Construction Costs, up to a Maximum Amount of $25,000 Per Commercial or Industrial Property/Property Owner is available. The funds, which utilize Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Dollars (50/50 match), General Capital Outlay Fund (GCOF) Dollars (40/60 match), and American Rescue Plan Act Dollars (40/60 match), are an Incentive for Property Owners to Restore, Renovate or Improve their Building and/or Property. This Investment Improves the area’s Physical Characteristics and Enhances the Visual Quality and Attractiveness of the Environment, leading to Increased Occupancy and Property Values. Pre-Application Process Applicants will Submit a Pre-Application Form which identifies the Property to be Improved along with a General Overview and Design Concept of the Proposed Renovations. City Staff will meet with the Applicant to review their Conceptual Plans and discuss Eligibility Criteria, Program Requirements, Proposed Project Scheduling and consistency of the Design Proposal with the City's Design Guidelines. A search will be conducted to determine whether there are Pending Code Violations on the Property. If no Code Violations are found and Staff determines the Project is likely to Qualify for Program Funding, the Applicant will move onto the Formal Application Process. Project Proposals will be Reviewed and Approved by demonstrating Comprehensive Design with Substantial Improvements to the Exterior Facade of the Building, Conform to District Characteristics and Enhance the Visibility of the Corridor. Formal Application Process During the Formal Application Process, the applicant may be Required to Provide Additional Supporting Documents for the Proposed Project. The City's Engineering Division will conduct a "Comprehensive/Substantial Improvement Review" which will include a review of Architectural Plan Changes and Cost Estimates. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to cover their Half of the Project Cost. Those interested in learning more about the program should call Hugo Amaya, Corridor Redevelopment Specialist at: (954) 921-3620. < Previous News Next News >

The NAR Lawsuit Settlement: An Introduction For Sellers & Buyers Thu Aug 29 2024 16:14:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Nurturing Nature For A Greener Tomorrow: Aventura Celebrates 27 Years As A Tree City USA April 17, 2024 Share The City of Aventura stands tall as a beacon of environmental stewardship, a city that has seamlessly woven sustainability into its very fabric. For an impressive 27 consecutive years, Aventura has been honored with the prestigious title of Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation. As the city gears up to celebrate this remarkable milestone, residents and visitors alike are invited to join in the festivities of the Annual Earth & Arbor Day Celebration. Mark your calendars for Friday, April 26th, 2024, as the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center becomes the epicenter of homage to nature. At 10:00 a.m., the jubilant ceremony will commence, showcasing the heart and soul of Aventura's commitment to environmental preservation. But this isn't just any celebration; it's a convergence of community spirit, artistic expression, and environmental advocacy. The beating heart of the event lies in the youthful exuberance of the Aventura City of Excellence School students. With boundless creativity and unwavering dedication, these budding artists will captivate attendees with their expressive artworks and captivating dance performances. Their contributions serve as a poignant reminder of the symbiotic relationship between humanity and the natural world — a relationship that Aventura cherishes and nurtures. Yet, the celebration extends beyond the realm of artistic expression. It is a moment to honor and recognize the tireless efforts of local businesses and residential communities that have wholeheartedly embraced the ethos of sustainability. Through the presentation of the coveted 2024 Aventura GO Green Recognition Awards, these trailblazers will receive the accolades they rightly deserve. Their initiatives to Reduce Energy Consumption, promote Sustainability, and foster Environmental Consciousness serve as shining examples for others to follow. At the heart of Aventura's environmental endeavors lies the GO Green Campaign — a rallying cry for all members of the community to embrace Sustainability wholeheartedly. Whether it's implementing energy-efficient practices, Reducing Carbon Footprints, or championing Eco-Friendly Initiatives, Aventura stands united in its mission to safeguard the planet for generations to come. By weaving Sustainability into the very fabric of daily life, the city not only mitigates its Environmental Impact but also sets a precedent for communities far and wide. The celebration is more than just a commemoration; it's a testament to Aventura's enduring legacy of environmental stewardship. For 27 years and counting, the city has stood as a bastion of greenery — a sanctuary where nature thrives and humanity flourishes in harmony with its surroundings. For those eager to learn more or get involved, the Community Services Department stands ready to provide assistance and information. You can reach the Community Services Department at: (305) 466-3883. Or via email: crcenter@cityofaventura.com . Join in the celebration as the City pay's tribute to 27 years of Environmental Excellence and embarks on a journey toward a brighter, greener tomorrow for everyone. < Previous News Next News >

FIDF Brings Yom HaZikaron Ceremonies To 50+ Communities; Tens Of Thousands Of Israel Supporters In Diaspora Jewish Connection News May 19, 2026 This Yom HaZikaron (Israel's Official Memorial Day For Fallen Soldiers And Victims Of Terrorism), Friends Of The Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) Mobilized More Than 50 U.S. Communities, Engaged Tens Of Thousands Of Participants, And Activated Roughly 100 Young Leaders In A Nationwide Effort To Honor Israel’s Fallen Soldiers. Across the country, FIDF-supported memorial ceremonies used curated programming that reflected the tone and traditions observed in Israel. The initiative encouraged broad participation and brought entire communities together in a shared experience of remembrance and unity. A central component of this year’s effort was FIDF’s Hall of Courage ( www.fidf.org/hall-of-courage/soldiers/ ) an English-language digital memorial dedicated to soldiers who have fallen since October 7. Visitors can learn about the fallen, read biographies, light virtual memorial candles, and write messages of support to bereaved families. FIDF staff in Israel print and deliver these messages. In the week leading up to Yom HaZikaron, more than 58,000 people worldwide visited the site and lit 60,696 virtual memorial candles. In partnership with the Israel Ministry of Defense, FIDF engaged Ynet to produce seven-minute documentary films highlighting the lives of those who have fallen on and since October 7, 2023. Ahead of Yom HaZikaron, 26 films were released, with additional films in development and scheduled for rolling release. They can be viewed with English subtitles on the Hall of Courage, and are also being aired in Israel. Programming in participating communities included large-format poster installations displaying the names and faces of fallen soldiers, bio cards distributed to attendees, and stations for writing letters to bereaved families. Recordings of Israel’s memorial siren, video tributes, and translated excerpts from soldiers’ final letters further deepened the experience and aligned it with commemorations in Israel. In parallel, approximately 100 young leaders led a grassroots campaign to distribute memorial stickers in their communities. Modeled after a movement in Israel, the stickers featured photos, quotes, and artwork from fallen soldiers selected by their families. They created a personal, visible tribute that extended beyond formal ceremonies. “Bringing Yom HaZikaron to communities across the United States is about ensuring that Israel’s fallen soldiers are remembered not only in Israel but by the global Jewish community as well,” said FIDF CEO Major General (Reserve) Nadav Padan. “Through the Hall of Courage and the collective participation of tens of thousands, we are creating meaningful ways for people to connect, remember, and stand with the families who have made the ultimate sacrifice.” Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) is a 501(c)(3) Not-For-Profit Organization dedicated to honoring and supporting the brave men and women of the IDF who risk everything to protect the State of Israel and the Jewish people. While the mission of the IDF’s heroes is to look after Israel, defending its people, borders and freedom, FIDF’s mission is to look after them. FIDF provides life-changing support through education, financial aid, bereavement programs, mental health services and more, ensuring that every soldier, veteran and bereaved family knows they are not alone. Through global partnerships and unwavering commitment, FIDF stands as a pillar of strength for those who sacrifice so much in service to the Jewish homeland. For more information, visit: https://www.fidf.org/ . Programming in participating communities included large-format poster installations displaying the names and faces of fallen soldiers. Photos (courtesy of FIDF) Programming in participating communities included large-format poster installations displaying the names and faces of fallen soldiers. Photos (courtesy of FIDF) Programming in participating communities included large-format poster installations displaying the names and faces of fallen soldiers. Photos (courtesy of FIDF) Programming in participating communities included large-format poster installations displaying the names and faces of fallen soldiers. Photos (courtesy of FIDF) Programming in participating communities included large-format poster installations displaying the names and faces of fallen soldiers. Photos (courtesy of FIDF) Previous Next