Six Spellers Enter: One Speller Leaves & The Losers Gets a Juice Box Fri Apr 07 2023 16:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary South Florida Sun Times Jun 25, 2026 Computer Biology Labs, Inc. To Debut "The Washington Experience," A First-Of-Its-Kind Interactive Ai Educational Chat With America's Founding Father George Washington Chats with local leader Ivy Stranahan also featured in free innovative learning initiative, part of The America's Founders Project, a gateway global launch event for Constant Life AI Fort Lauderdale, Florida (June 22nd, 2026) – For the first time in history, anyone can hold a conversation with leaders, public figures and innovators from the past! In celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Computer Biology Labs, Inc. will debut “The Washington Experience,”* a free, in-person interactive AI chat demonstration based on the life and historical records of America’s founding father George Washington, at History Fort Lauderdale, located at 231 Southwest Second Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312 on Sunday, June 28th, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Included in this milestone launch will be chat opportunities with Fort Lauderdale’s own first founding mother and schoolteacher, Ivy Stranahan. Guests are invited to ‘ask’ these important figures questions and learn how the AI-generated historical interpretation works. The national launch of “The Washington Experience” is part of The America's Founders Project presented by Constant Life AI, an educational initiative created to help people engage with the individuals who shaped the United States, through conversational experiences built from historical records, writings, speeches, letters, and publicly available source materials. “This is our gift to America on its 250th Birthday,” said Scott Coloney, Founder of Computer Biology Labs, Inc. “Every child should have the thrill of using artificial intelligence to explore this country’s founding, engage with the nuanced and complicated parts of that story, and learn timeliness and extraordinary leadership lessons from the man who helped win American Independence. We hope this experience will encourage further questions and learning no matter the platform, not just around the Fourth of July, but year-round.” Using Library of Congress archives for historically accurate responses, “The Washington Experience” is designed to help families, students, and historians explore his life, military leadership, presidency, and role in the founding of the United States. It covers the Revolutionary War, the founding of the United States, his presidency until 1797, the Constitution, civic leadership, and Washington’s legacy, which mirrors the contradictions of the era, including slavery and the limits placed on liberty and citizenship. Unlike a general-purpose chatbot asked to imitate George Washington, this educational experience is grounded in curated historical records and limited to the knowledge, letters, and events of Washington’s lifetime. It is designed for historically informed learning—not open-ended role-play. As an added bonus, guests will also have the chance to “chat” with Fort Lauderdale’s first schoolteacher, Ivy Stranahan, in History Fort Lauderdale’s 1899 Schoolhouse Museum, in her own voice pulled from actual recordings and facts on file. A humanitarian and leader, Stranahan served as an outspoken advocate and educator for the Seminole Tribe of Florida, was Founder of the Fort Lauderdale Woman's Club and served as the first president of the Women’s Suffrage Association of Florida and later founded the local Audubon Society. She is credited with founding the first Broward Red Cross Chapter in 1918 and was treasurer for Provident Hospital which served the Black community before Broward General was integrated. She was also a Founder of the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society in 1962, among many other great achievements. “History Fort Lauderdale is thrilled to host ‘The Washington Experience’ and ‘The Ivy Stranahan Experience,’ Computer Biology Labs’ inaugural contributions to commemorating and celebrating our great nation and our local leaders,” said Patricia Zeiler, Executive Director of History Fort Lauderdale. “As proud stewards of our community’s past by making our heritage accessible and engaging to residents and visitors, we invite guests to join us for this milestone launch honoring the contributions of all Americans and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.” This special America 250 launch event will also feature children’s activities including a bounce house, arts and crafts, face painting, a lemonade stand and popcorn. After its debut, “The Washington Experience” will be available anytime and free of charge online at constantlife.ai while “The Ivy Stranahan Experience” will remain on campus at History Fort Lauderdale. Additional local historical figure “chat” experiences are planned for the landmark attraction. History Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of engaging multicultural experiences throughout the year. It seeks to bring awareness to the community through both traveling exhibits and multiple permanent displays including “Women Trailblazers,” “Fort Lauderdale – the Early Years,” “Roots of Resilience: The Journey of Black Broward,” “From Dugouts to Dream Yachts: The Story of Boatbuilding Along the New River,” “Seminole Arts & Culture,” “New River Archaeology,” “Viva Fort Lauderdale: Celebrating Hispanic Art & Culture,” “The Growth and History of the Broward County Sheriff’s Office,” and “Take PRIDE, a Retrospective on LGBTQ Life in South Florida.” History Fort Lauderdale is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. with docent guided tours, daily, at 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Group walking tours are available upon special request. Admission is $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and $7 for students (through age 22 with a valid student ID). Admission is free for members, military and children ages six and under. Tickets are available online at: https://HistoryFortLauderdaleTickets . Families may register for the free special event at: bit.ly/TheWashingtonExperience . About Computer Biology Labs, Inc. Fort Lauderdale-based Computer Biology Labs, Inc. develops artificial intelligence experiences for education, history, memory, and personal storytelling. It is the developer of ConstantLife.ai, an artificial intelligence platform. For more information, visit: www.constantlife.ai . About History Fort Lauderdale Since 1962, History Fort Lauderdale has been committed to preserving our collective heritage, promoting historical literacy, and fostering a sense of pride and stewardship for the vibrant tapestry of our region’s history. Through dynamic exhibitions, engaging educational programs, and meaningful community initiatives, it strives to connect individuals of all ages and backgrounds with the stories, artifacts, and experiences that shape our shared past, present, and future. Guests to Fort Lauderdale are invited to explore the city’s rich past that is housed in historic buildings on a lushly landscaped campus - the History Museum of Fort Lauderdale situated in the 1905 New River Inn, the 1907 Pioneer House Museum, the 1899 Ivy Cromartie Schoolhouse Museum and the Hoch Research Library, South Florida’s foremost history center housing print resources and newspapers from 1910 - present plus 400,000 archival photos, 2,500 maps and 5,000 architectural blueprints. History Fort Lauderdale is located at 231 Southwest Second Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. Tickets are available online at: https://HistoryFortLauderdaleTickets . History Fort Lauderdale is a NonProfit Agency supported by memberships, grants and charitable contributions. For more information, call: (954) 463-4431. Or visit: https://historyfortlauderdale.org . Follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ftlhistory , on Instagram @ftlhistory and on Twitter @FTLHistory. Subscribe to us on YouTube at: www.youtube.com/user/FTLhistory . George Washington - Image courtesy of Computer Biology Labs Inc. Ivy Stranahan - Image courtesy of History Fort Lauderdale Previous Next

Support Local Community Access To Fresh Produce: Invitation Homes Restores Garden Beds For The Dania Beach Community Fri May 24 2024 16:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Fox Vein and Laser Experts In Hollywood Mon Mar 15 2021 04:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Sweeten The Season: Deliciously Creamy Desserts By Family Features November 2, 2023 Share The Holiday Season is fast approaching and it's often time for one of the favorite moments of holiday gatherings. The taste (and smell) of those divine desserts you may only make once a year is enough to keep guests hungry even after the main course. Put a new staple on holiday menus for years to come with this Cran-Raspberry Quinoa Pudding Trifle that combines fresh Raspberries, vibrant Cranberry Sauce, Orange Juice and Orange Zest for a unique dessert. Ready in 30 minutes, it can be an easy way to impress everyone at the table with a creamy pudding base inspired by favorite winter flavors. As a tasty treat that's ideal for just about any occasion, this take on Rice Pudding is made using Success Boil-In-Bag Tri-Color Quinoa, which offers a heat-safe, BPA-FREE and FDA-Approved bag and is easily prepared in just 10 minutes. Its light, nutty flavor and versatility creates a pudding that's perfect for a wide range of pairings, from satisfying chocoholics or pumpkin-spice fanatics to whipping up a sweet, simple dessert. For a comforting dish full of familiar cold-weather flavors, serve Pumpkin Pecan Rice Pudding Bars. Pumpkin-spice fanatics can enjoy their favorite ingredient mixed into a Rice Pudding base sweetened with Coconut Milk, Brown Sugar, Vanilla Extract, Whipping Cream and Maple Syrup. This holiday-inspired dessert relies on the fluffiness of Success Boil-In-Bag White Rice as a high-quality, precooked solution. The boil-in-bag rice is quick and easy with no measuring and no mess, and it's ready in 10 minutes to make seasonal recipes a cinch. Find more sweet holiday recipe inspirations at: www.SuccessRice.com Cran-Raspberry Quinoa Pudding Trifle Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 6 Quinoa Pudding: • 2 Bags of Success Tri-Color Quinoa • 4 Cups of Almond Milk • 3 Tablespoons of Honey • 1 Teaspoon of Vanilla Extract • 1/2 Teaspoon of Ground Cinnamon Creamy Yogurt Layer: • 2 Cups of Plain Greek Yogurt • 3 Tablespoons of Honey • 1 Teaspoon of Vanilla Extract • 1/2 Cup of Heavy Cream Cran-Raspberry Layer: • 1/2 Cup of Cranberry Sauce • 1/4 Cup of Orange Juice • 1 Teaspoon of Orange Zest • 2 Cups of Fresh Raspberries • 1/2 Cup of Sliced Almonds, Toasted • 2 Cups of Gluten-FREE Vanilla Cookies, chopped • 1/2 Cup of Fresh Raspberries To make the Quinoa Pudding: Prepare the Quinoa according to the package’s directions, substituting the Almond Milk for Water. Drain the reserving Almond Milk. Remove the Quinoa from the bags and stir it into the Almond Milk in a saucepan over Medium Heat. Stir in the Honey, the Vanilla and the Cinnamon. Bring them to a simmer. Cook them by stirring them constantly for 5-8 minutes, or until it is slightly thickened. Refrigerate it for 45-60 minutes or until it is well chilled. To make creamy yogurt layer: In a large bowl, stir yogurt, honey and vanilla. In a separate bowl, beat cream until stiff peaks form. Stir whipped cream into yogurt mixture until blended. Refrigerate until ready to use. To make the Cran-Raspberry layer: In a medium bowl, stir the Cranberry Sauce, the Orange Juice and the Orange Zest. Gently fold in the Raspberries. To assemble: In a 10-cup Trifle Dish, layer 1/3 of the Quinoa mixture, 2 Tablespoons of Almonds, 1/3 of the Cran-Raspberry mixture, 1/3 of the Vanilla Cookies and 1/3 of the Yogurt mixture. Repeat the layers twice. Garnish them with the remaining Raspberries and the Almonds. Pumpkin Pecan Rice Pudding Bars Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 40 minutes Servings: 4-6 • 1 Bag of Success White Rice • 1 Cup of Pecans • 4 Cups of Coconut Milk • 1 Can, 15 ounces of Pumpkin Purée • 3/4 Cup of Brown Sugar • 2 Teaspoons of Pumpkin Pie Spice • 1/2 Teaspoon of Salt • 3 Eggs • 1/2 Teaspoon of Vanilla Extract • 1 Cup of Heavy Whipping Cream • 2 Tablespoons of Maple Syrup Prepare the rice according to the package’s directions. Preheat the oven to 350˚ F. Spread the Pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for 8-10 minutes, cool them then chop them. In a large saucepan over Medium-High Heat, combine the Milk, the Pumpkin, the Brown Sugar, the Pumpkin Pie Spice and the Salt. Bring it to a boil by stirring constantly. Slowly add about 1/2 cups of hot liquid to the Eggs and beat them well. Stir the Egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook it over Medium-High Heat for 2 minutes. Remove it from the heat and stir in the Cooked Rice, the Vanilla and the Pecans. Pour the mixture into a greased 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Bake it uncovered for 30 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Whip the Heavy Cream to soft peaks then add the Maple Syrup and continue beating it until the peaks form. Serve it with the warm pudding. Tip: For a sweeter pudding, increase the Brown Sugar to 1 1/2 cups. < Previous News Next News >

ArtServe Presents “Florida Opulence” Member’s Show Celebrating The Gilded Age Of Florida Aventura Digest Nov 20, 2025 Artserve Will Present “Florida Opulence,” Exploring Florida’s Gilded Age Aesthetics Through The Works Of Local Artists. The Annual Member’s Show Will Be Running Through Friday December 12th, 2025, At ArtServe, 1350 East Sunrise Boulevard,Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. Inspired by Florida’s late 19th- and early 20th-Century architectural grandeur, from Vizcaya to the Ringling Museum, “Florida Opulence” invites members to interpret the beauty, wealth and cultural influence of the state’s past through a wide range of artistic mediums. “We’re excited to close out the season with Florida Opulence, a show that truly celebrates the incredible talent within our member community,” said ArtServe President and CEO Jason Hughes. “Providing a platform for local artists to share their work and connect with new audiences is at the heart of ArtServe’s mission, and this exhibition is a perfect example of how creativity continues to thrive when artists are given the space to shine.” The exhibition is expected to feature more than 20 works, spanning painting, sculpture, photography, fiber art and mixed media. ArtServe visitors will also enjoy two concurrent solo exhibitions awarded through the Broward County Cultural Division: “Please Touch” by Interdisciplinary Fiber Artist Cary Dunlap Daly, is a multimedia exploration of aging, femininity and identity through humor and fabric-based storytelling. “Marking the Moments” by Multimedia Artist LuRu, is inspired by explorations of cultural heritage and features multilayered, LED-reactive paintings and immersive lighting design that reflect our community’s diverse experiences of seasonal change and the passage of time. ArtServe is located at 1350 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Daily admission is free. For more information about these events, or to become a member, volunteer or support ArtServe’s mission, please visit: www.artserve.org - Or email: membership@artserve.org . Or call: (954) 462-8190. About ArtServe Named a “Top-Rated Nonprofit” by GreatNonProfits, the leading provider of user reviews of charities and NonProfits, Fort Lauderdale-based ArtServe is an award-winning arts incubator advancing the arts for social good as a creative laboratory and hub for experimental artists committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Now in its 36th year, ArtServe has won multiple awards for innovation in the arts and is supported in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council and the Community Foundation of Broward. In 2025, ArtServe was named Non-Profit Organization of the Year: The Arts by 211 Broward. Each year, ArtServe helps 2,000+ artists sell their work, build businesses and connect with the community through exhibitions, education and events. Previous Next

Ahoy, Mateys! It’s Time for the City of Hollywood Cardboard Boat Race! Thu Oct 07 2021 04:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Critical Archives, Tell The Story - New Website Details The Persecution, Looting And Deportation Of Jews During The Holocaust In Hungary Jewish Connection News Apr 1, 2025 The Zekelman Holocaust Center (The HC) And The World Jewish Restitution Organization (WJRO) Have Announced The Launch Of A New Website Featuring 180 Digitized, Searchable Microfilm Reels With More Than 160,000 Frames Related To Jews In Hungary During World War II. A Key Highlight Of This Collection Is The Documentation Of Jewish Cultural Property—Including Art Collections, Personal Possessions And Valuable Assets—Seized By The Hungarian Government, Nazis, Their Allies And Collaborators. This Extensive Archive Also Tells The Story Of The Systematic Persecution And Near Destruction Of Hungary’s Jewish Community During The Holocaust, Showcasing How Lives Were Upended Through Exclusion, Property Confiscation And Eventual Deportation. “We welcome the online release of these critical archives, which tell the story of a people who faced unimaginable persecution and tragic losses during the Holocaust,” said Gideon Taylor, President of the World Jewish Restitution Organization (WJRO). “This archive will help people seeking their lost art and possessions and is a crucial tool for understanding the scale of cultural loss and supporting efforts to seek justice.” “The efforts by the WWII-era Hungarian government to strip Jews of their possessions was part of the genocidal campaign against Hungarian Jewry during the Holocaust, which must continue to be documented and remembered,” said Rabbi Eli Mayerfeld, CEO of The Zekelman Holocaust Center. Jonathan H. Schwartz, a litigator and art law expert at Taft – Detroit, who also leads the Jewish Bar Association of Michigan’s Holocaust Art Recovery Initiative, explained: “As a result of the remarkable work of Hungarian Holocaust survivor, Clara Garbon-Radnoti and The Zekelman Holocaust Center, thousands of documents exposing a crucial part of the largest art theft in human history are now available online for the public, governments and the art world to view, investigate and finally take appropriate action. This website documents in chilling detail the injustice faced by the Jews of Hungary and is an unparalleled opportunity to learn more about their fate. It comes at a crucial time, when the clock is ticking down for survivors and descendants to seek justice for stolen artwork.” Donated by the late Professor Randolph Braham, a renowned scholar of the Holocaust in Hungary, the reels were sourced from the National Archive of Hungary and local repositories. They serve as a stark reminder of the immense cultural and personal losses that remain unaccounted for today. The collection, comprising thousands of reels created in the 1960’s with funding from the World Federation of Hungarian Jews, was sourced from various Hungarian archives and includes invaluable records on looted cultural property. Clara Garbon-Radnoti, a Detroit-area Hungarian Holocaust survivor and volunteer at The HC, dedicated significant time to organizing a comprehensive finding aid in English and translating key portions of Reels 143-145. Her work has made these archives more accessible, allowing for greater research into stolen cultural property. These reels are particularly valuable for those pursuing claims related to stolen property, especially artwork. They detail the looting of Jewish art collections, including works by Rembrandt, Renoir and other renowned artists, much of which is believed to remain in Hungarian museums and private collections today. Notably, reel 144C contains detailed documentation of the Herzog Collection, one of Europe’s most significant private art collections before World War II. Assembled by Baron Mór Lipót Herzog, the collection included masterpieces by artists such as El Greco, Francisco de Zurbarán, and Lucas Cranach the Elder. During the Holocaust, the Hungarian government, in collaboration with the Nazi regime, seized these artworks, many of which continue to reside in Hungarian museums. The heirs of Baron Herzog have been engaged in ongoing legal efforts to reclaim these pieces. The archive’s keyword-searchable index enables users to navigate thousands of stolen items, including the names of victims, what was taken, where and when the thefts occurred and recipients of looted art. Among the materials highlighted are records detailing the tragic fates of Jewish collectors and their cultural legacies. For example, József Pécsi, a renowned Hungarian Jewish photographer and collector, lost his art collection in the summer of 1944 to Dénes Csánky, a government commissioner tasked with confiscating Jewish-owned art. A bronze plaquette created by Gyula Murányi commemorates Pécsi and is referenced in Reel 145D. Reel 143, Frame 592 references the painting Sándor Nyilassy: Vasárnap délután, Sunday Afternoon, an oil on canvas owned by Artur Reisner (1878–1955), a Hungarian businessman and factory owner based in Gyula, South Hungary. Reisner operated a family-run match factory until 1939. A painting with this title and similar size was sold multiple times, with one recorded sale by an auction house in December 2005. Further provenance research is needed to verify the connection to most of the items referenced in the archives and to confirm their ownership history. This extensive archive serves as a primary source documenting how Jews were identified and excluded from Hungarian society, work and schools, as well as detailing the widespread seizure of Jewish property and possessions. At a time when Holocaust denial, distortion and ignorance are rising, the accounts laid out in this archive are a powerful response to those who would distort the fate of Hungarian Jews and their possessions during the Holocaust. Hungary endorsed the 1998 Washington Conference Principles on Nazi-Confiscated Art and the 2009 Terezin Declaration, but it has not generally been forthcoming on the provenance of its art and other cultural property collections. The Best Practices for the Washington Conference Principles, developed through the leadership of the World Jewish Restitution Organization (WJRO) and the U.S. Department of State, represents another key advancement in addressing looted art and cultural property and advancing Holocaust-era restitution. Unveiled on March 5, 2024 with video remarks from then Secretary of State Antony Blinken at a joint event with WJRO at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Best Practices expand upon the 1998 Washington Conference Principles. They offer clearer guidelines for resolving claims and provide lessons learned in handling cultural property restitution. To date, 30 countries have endorsed the Best Practices, though Hungary has not yet done so. Continued international cooperation is essential to address the unresolved issues surrounding looted art and cultural heritage. “Hungary now has an opportunity to take meaningful action by endorsing the Best Practices and returning property that holds deep personal and historical significance to so many families,” added Taylor. The Claims Conference-WJRO Looted Art & Cultural Property Initiative, which works globally to recover Jewish-owned art, Judaica, and cultural property lost during the Holocaust, allocated funds for the digitization and translation of the reels. Funding for this project was sponsored by the Foundation “Remembrance, Responsibility and Future” (“EVZ”) and supported by the German Federal Ministry of Finance (“BMF”). To view the Hungarian microfilm site, visit: https://hfilms.holocaustcenter.org/ To learn more about the history of the reels, Professor Randolph Braham’s work and documented looted property, visit: https://wjro.org.il/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/wjro_zekelman_hungarian-microfilm_backgrounder.pdf Previous Next

7 Tricks To Ease Back-To-School Chaos With A Little Magic By Feature Impact Aug 20, 2026 Everyone Could Use A Little More Magic In Their Everyday Lives - But When It Comes To Back-To-School Season, "Manic" Often Feels Like The More Accurate Word. Between Shopping For Supplies, Coordinating The Family's Schedules And Trying To Make Sure Everyone Is Looking And Feeling Their Best, There's A Lot Going On This Time Of Year. While you may not be able to wave a wand and make all the stress disappear, you can use these tips and tricks - courtesy of the haircut magicians at Great Clips - to save time and add a touch of excitement to the back-to-school season. Start Routines Early Instead of waiting for the first day of school to change all your routines, guide your family into the time warp a little more gradually. Shift sleep and wake times a week or two ahead of time so the early wakeups won't come as such a shock to the system. Adapt meal schedules and other daily habits the same way. Before you know it, the spell will be complete and you'll be ready to roll with the regular school-day schedules. Create a Special Back-to-School Tradition Watching your kids' eyes light up is its own mini dose of magic that never gets old. Start a fun new tradition to brighten their first day or week. That could be a special breakfast, new outfit, porch photoshoot, surprise gift for them to discover in their backpacks or another creative idea personalized to your family. Get a Convenient and Affordable Haircut A haircut can help children and parents get into the back-to-school spirit. That's why Great Clips partnered with internet celebrity and magician Justin Flom, known for his mind-bending optical illusions, to help remind parents they don't need complicated tricks to make getting a back-to-school haircut a breeze. With the Great Clips app, parents can easily check in multiple family members at once, keep an eye on wait times and get notified when it's their turn for a haircut. No illusions, no sleight of hand - just convenient, affordable haircuts that feel like much needed relief for parents. "Our goal is to help families spend less time waiting and more time doing what matters during one of the busiest seasons of the year," said Traci Elder, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Great Clips, Inc. "The Great Clips app helps families save time by making haircuts fit more seamlessly into their busy schedules and at a great price, too." Plan Outfits Ahead of Time The morning rush often feels like the furthest thing from a fairytale. Take at least one groggy decision off your plate by choosing clothes the evening before - or even assembling a week's worth of outfits on Sunday and storing them in a special drawer that gives your child an instant portal to getting dressed. Personalize School Supplies From preferred colors to beloved characters, all kids have their favorites. Stock them up with pens, notebooks, lunchboxes and other supplies that match their current obsessions; that way, it's more exciting to use them at school and show their swag off to their friends. Refresh the Study Space Homework time might look like less of a wizard battle if your kids have a special place to do it. Add some whimsy to their study spaces by putting up string lights, letting them pick out a new piece of furniture or art, and making their environment cozy and comfortable. Set School Year Goals As a family, take some time to figure out what each of you wants to achieve this year - and make it fun. Amp up the magic here by writing down your goals; then, keep track of progress by filling up a goal jar with shiny stars, swirly marbles or fun charms. Throughout the school year, set up different "quests" for your family to accomplish. Discover more about back-to-school haircut magic that saves you time and money at: www.GreatClips.com/BacktoSchool . Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (mom and daughter) Watching your kids' eyes light up is its own mini dose of magic that never gets old. A new haircut can help children and parents get into the back-to-school spirit and set the tone to make all the stress disappear. Previous Next

Getting Back To Basics: Financial And Demographic Changes Have Triggered The Need To Rethink The District Thu Mar 28 2024 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Bringing Hope To Families Facing Infertility - Jewish Fertility Foundation Expands To South Florida Jewish Connection News Apr 1, 2025 Infertility Is A Silent Struggle For Many, Often Accompanied By Emotional And Financial Burdens That Make The Journey To Parenthood Seem Insurmountable. The Jewish Fertility Foundation (JFF), A Nonprofit Dedicated To Providing Financial Assistance, Emotional Support And Educational Programming To Those Facing Infertility, Is Stepping Up To Help. In A Significant Expansion Of Its Outreach, JFF Is Launching In South Florida, Bringing Its Resources And Community-Based Support To Miami-Dade And Broward County Residents. To mark this exciting milestone, JFF will be hosting its South Florida Kickoff Event in North Miami Beach on April 3rd, 2025. The event will introduce the local community to the foundation’s mission and services, offering an opportunity for individuals and families to connect, share their stories, and learn more about the support available to them. JFF was founded with a clear mission: to ensure that individuals and couples struggling with infertility do not have to navigate their journey alone. Through financial grants, the Fertility Buddies mentorship program, and peer support groups, JFF empowers those facing fertility challenges, providing them with both the means and the emotional support necessary to pursue their dreams of parenthood. Unlike many other fertility-focused organizations, JFF is inclusive, offering its services to interfaith and LGBTQ couples and individuals. Additionally, while the organization is rooted in Jewish values, its emotional support and educational programming are open to anyone, regardless of religious background. By fostering a compassionate and understanding community, JFF helps break the isolation and stigma often associated with infertility. A Personal Story that Sparked a Movement Elana Frank, the CEO and Founder of JFF, knows firsthand the struggles of infertility. Her personal experience with in vitro fertilization (IVF) inspired her to take action and create an organization dedicated to supporting others on their fertility journeys. “My story isn’t unique. But I was lucky. I got pregnant via IVF twice in two years and I thank the universe every day. But for others, it takes years, losses and lots of tears and heartache before babies are made, if at all. And with the costs of IVF ranging from $15,000 – $25,000 in the United States, many don’t even have a chance for a chance. So I’ve turned my useless guilt into helpful actions by starting the Jewish Fertility Foundation (JFF),” Frank shared. Frank’s deep empathy for those enduring fertility struggles has driven JFF’s growth, expanding its reach to multiple cities across the country. Now, with its South Florida launch, JFF is positioned to help even more families in need. A Night of Awareness and Community The South Florida Kickoff Event will take place at Aventura Skybar from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This gathering will be an opportunity for attendees to hear from JFF’s leadership, including CEO Elana Frank, donor and host Monica Peisach Sasson and local community members who have experienced infertility firsthand. The event will offer a warm and welcoming environment with a Kosher appetizer buffet and drinks, encouraging open conversations about infertility and the support JFF provides. Event Details: Location : Aventura Skybar - 2420 Nortrheast 186th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180 Date : April 3rd, 2025 Time : 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Admission : Free event, please RSVP Attendees will gain insight into how JFF’s programs can benefit individuals and families in South Florida, fostering a community of support for those experiencing infertility. Expanding Impact in South Florida JFF’s expansion into South Florida marks a significant step forward in addressing the needs of individuals struggling with infertility in the region. The organization’s financial aid programs help cover the high costs of fertility treatments, which can often be prohibitive for many families. Through Grants and partnerships with fertility clinics, JFF alleviates some of the financial burdens that can stand in the way of parenthood. The Fertility Buddies mentorship program is another critical initiative, pairing individuals who are currently undergoing fertility treatments with those who have navigated similar challenges. This one-on-one support provides encouragement and guidance from someone who truly understands the emotional ups and downs of the fertility journey. Additionally, JFF offers peer-led support groups and educational workshops that address the medical, emotional and psychological aspects of infertility. These resources create a sense of community and shared understanding, helping individuals feel less isolated in their struggles. For many, the dream of starting a family feels just out of reach. The Jewish Fertility Foundation is working to change that narrative by providing hope, financial assistance and a supportive community. Through its expansion into South Florida, JFF is ensuring that more individuals and couples will have access to the resources they need to pursue their dreams of parenthood. The South Florida Kickoff Event is just the beginning. As JFF continues to grow and expand its reach, it remains committed to its core mission: ensuring that no one has to face infertility alone. For more information about JFF’s programs and the South Florida Kickoff Event, visit: https://jewishfertilityfoundation.org/sflkickoff/ Previous Next

Affected By The Recent Storms? SBA Opens Business Recovery Center to Assist Floridians Applying for a Disaster Loan May 11, 2023 Share The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently opened a Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Broward County at the Urban League of Broward County in Fort Lauderdale. At the BRC, SBA’s Customer Service Representatives will assist Floridians applying for SBA disaster loans for losses due to severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred on April 12-14. “Our Business Recovery Centers are one of the most powerful resources at SBA’s disposal to support business owners in the midst of a disaster,” said Francisco Sanchez, Jr., Associate Administrator, Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience. “Business owners can meet in-person with our specialists to apply for SBA disaster loans and get information on the full breadth of our programs designed to help them navigate their recovery.” The disaster declaration covers Broward County, which is eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs): Collier, Hendry, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach in Florida. Disaster survivors with insurance should not wait for their settlement before applying to the SBA. The SBA can make a loan for the total loss and use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan. “We are excited to work with SBA on providing much needed resources to small businesses,” said Courtnee Biscardi, Executive Vice President, Urban League of Broward County. “The Urban League provides an Entrepreneurship Center which offers access to training, business coaching and counseling and a myriad of services for small businesses. Also, through its CDFI, Central County CDC League assists businesses by providing additional capital and support for other business needs.” Any business owner or resident in any of the declared counties can get help at the BRC location provided by the Urban League. It will operate at the following address until further notice: Business Recovery Center (Broward County) Urban League of Broward County Central County Community Development 560 Northwest 27th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 Businesses and private nonprofit organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage. Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed personal property. Interest rates are as low as 4 percent for businesses, 2.375 percent for nonprofit organizations, and 2.375 percent for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition. Building back smarter and stronger can be an effective recovery tool for future disasters. Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20 percent of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements may include a safe room or storm shelter, sump pump, elevation, retaining walls, and landscaping to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by a similar disaster. “The opportunity to include measures to help prevent future damage from occurring is a significant benefit of SBA’s disaster loan program,” said SBA Associate Administrator Francisco Sanchez, Jr. “I encourage everyone to consult their contractors and emergency management mitigation specialists for ideas and apply for an SBA disaster loan increase for funding.” Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/ and should apply under SBA declaration # 17901. To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, applicants should register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA mobile app. If online or mobile access is unavailable, applicants should call the FEMA toll-free helpline at: 800-621-3362. Those who use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services should call: 800-621-3362. Disaster loan information and application forms can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at: 800-659-2955 (if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial: 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services) or sending an email to: DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov . Loan applications can also be downloaded from: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance - Completed applications should be mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76155. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is June 26th, 2023. The deadline to return economic injury applications is January 29th, 2024. < Previous News Next News >