Sailing Yogi Shares Salty Tales: 20-Years Liveaboard Sailor Makes Splash With A Bestselling Sequel February 21, 2024 Share Carole Fontaine has released the second in her bestselling series, S.A.I.L. Above the Clouds. In book 2, subtitled How to Align Your Life, the sailing yogi returns with insights and salty tales from 20 years on a sailboat, tackling the highs and lows of relationships in tight quarters, braving the unknown while surviving sea monsters, storms, sword encounters, and poop deck explosions. The sea-bound heroine saves divers from certain death, develops her intuition, and dives into mystical caves while reclaiming her life by conquering her fears, embracing her authenticity, and discovering what sets her soul on fire. Each book in Fontaine's four-part series represents part of her signature program, S.A.I.L: Simplify, Align, Integrate, Let GoTM. Readers can replace the New Year’s resolution merry-go-round with an inspiring journey of self-discovery, learn how to tap into the power within, and apply the tools provided at the end of each adventure. Fontaine offers a salty perspective on healing your life and setting your compass towards success and happiness. The SAIL Above the Clouds series taps into the deep dives of Adrift, and merges the spirituality of Eat, Pray, Love with the saltiness of Captain Ron, making readers laugh, cry, and cringe. SAIL Above The Clouds: How to SIMPLIFY Your Life was Finalist for Book of the Year from Book Talk Radio Club (UK), a bestseller on Amazon for weeks, and sold copies on five continents. Book #2 launched in December at the Soulful Steep in Pompano to an Amazon #1 New Release for 12 days –currently #4 –and was #1 on Amazon Canada for 3 days this past weekend. Book Event Fontaine will be presenting her motivational seminar to the Junior League of Greater Fort Lauderdale on February 20th at 6:30 p.m. Recently, Fontaine taught seminars at The Toronto International Boat Show for the 3rd consecutive year. Her books sailed to the Vancouver Boat Show for a special draw offered by Women Who Sail. She travels North America and shares insights and stories encouraging people to discover their inner strength and create the life of their dreams… no matter how unconventional. The reviews are coming in... "Carole's book does a fantastic job of inspiring people to live a fulfilled life...I highly suggest it to our readers." – Mike Desimon, Sail Junky Magazine "A true-life story about a couple that made the decision to dramatically change their lives…Choosing to sail above the clouds is not a dreamer’s quest; it is a survival skill." – Latitudes & Attitudes Magazine “Carole's books showcase the resiliency and adaptability needed to tackle the unpredictable nature of the sea and draw powerful parallels to the challenges faced in our everyday lives. Through her journey from being a novice to mastering the art of sailing a 20-ton boat, in addition to figuring out her own health issues, she serves as a beacon of strength and empowerment. Her realizations about her own capabilities, reflected in her writings, inspire readers to confront their fears and embrace challenges, whether on open waters or in the confines of their homes. A truly uplifting and empowering writer (and human being).” – Carolyn Delaney, Publisher, Journey Magazine “Carole is real and shares her adventures skillfully. She is a master storyteller. Even if you easily suffer from sea sickness, enjoy sailing the seas with her, and bring joy into your land-loving self.” – Roslyn Reich, Professor Emeritus, Miami-Dade College, Brahma Kumaris, Hollywood Director (World Spiritual University) "Great storytelling and such a marvelous escape from all the negative noise out there today. And indeed, a great 'user guide' for steering your personal ship in the right direction." – Dennis P., 360° Nation “She’s a package full of energy,” and “…so inspiring,” “…really amazing,” – Paul Castronovo’s BIG 105.9 FM Miami’s #1 Rock Station. The Author Carole Fontaine is a writer, graphic designer, and student of holistic and yogic philosophies. Her certifications include Mindfulness Life Coach, Meditative Writing, Shakti Dance Yoga, and Reiki Master Teacher. With 20,000 nautical miles under her belt, she has learned the art of navigating the currents of life with ease and grace. She speaks and teaches self-improvement and empowerment workshops on mindset and stress management. She was the publisher of Real Sailors Magazine, a featured speaker at the Toronto International Boat Show, and a contributing writer for Journey Magazine (Maine). Originally from Québec, she spent 25 years in Florida and cruised the Bahamas before sailing to Maine where she currently lives with her husband of 33 years. To find the books online, visit: Book 1: https://amzn.to/3q4bQdR - Book 2: https://amzn.to/3uLNkF9 - Or: www.inspiredlifebycarole.com/booksailabovetheclouds < Previous News Next News >

Scoot Safe Sunny Isles Beach: The City Is Rolling Out A Motorized Scooter Registration Program January 26, 2024 Share Calling all Sunny Isles Beach Residents and visitors with a motorized scooter – there’s a new requirement. The city is rolling out a Motorized Scooter Registration Program to enhance your Safety and Security. We’re introducing Scoot Safe! Sunny Isles Beach. If you plan to operate your motorized scooter within city limits, it’s now required to complete the Registration Process under Ordinance 2023-609. But here’s the good news – this registration is not just about following the rules; it’s about safeguarding your scooter. In the unfortunate event of theft and other security concerns, having your scooter registered can make all the difference. Getting on board with the program is easy as a breeze. Just go online and register your motorized scooter. After completing the Online Registration Form, applicants will be mailed a Registration Decal. The Decal must be affixed to the scooter in a visible location. This Decal is like your scooter’s very own badge – simply pop it on the front of your scooter (we recommend within 12 inches from the top), and you’re ready to hit the road! Decals are NOT transferable from one scooter to another. However, a Decal is transferable from one person to another when there has been a change in ownership of the scooter and in accordance with a change in the registration of the motorized scooter. In addition to registration, this ordinance outlines some important rules for safe scooter operation. Here’s the scoop: Follow Traffic Signals: Just like any other vehicle, riders must obey official traffic-control signals and signs. It’s all about keeping everyone safe and sound. Speed Limit: Motorized scooters should not exceed 15 miles per hour on sidewalks and should not exceed 20 miles per hour on the roadway. It’s a fun ride, but let’s keep it safe. Safety First: If you’re under 16, don’t forget to wear your helmet. We’ve got your noggin covered! Solo Ride: Scooters are meant for one person at a time, so it’s all about your solo adventure. Ride With Traffic: Scooters must ride with the flow of traffic and follow traffic signals, using extra caution around intersections and driveways. Stay in Line: If you are riding alongside another scooter rider, you must ride in a single file line. Ears Open: While cruising, ditch the cell phone, headset, headphone, or listening device, except for a hearing aid. We need you to stay aware of your surroundings. Be Visible: Your scooter should sport a reflective front white light, visible from 500 feet away, and a reflective rear red light, visible from 600 feet away. Safety first, even in the dark! In addition to registration, all who operate a motorized scooter within the City of Sunny Isles Beach must adhere to the rules set forth in Ordinance 2023-609. Failure to do so may result in a citation. For the first violation you will receive a written warning, for the second violation you will receive a minimum fine of $25. For the third and Subsequent Violations there will be a minimum fine of $50, with a maximum penalty of $500 for a single violation. Violators may face non-criminal traffic or pedestrian infractions and officers have the authority to confiscate the scooter. For more information about Ordinance 2023-609, please call Code: Compliance at: (305) 792-1760. Or visit: www.sibfl.net/scootsafe < Previous News Next News >

Parking & The Budget: Balancing a City’s Budget, Is Often a Daunting Task By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper June 24, 2021 Share Over the past week, there have been many residents reaching out to the Commission, regarding parking. I know that I have written about this twice, but, I will continue to keep the residents informed. Parking is only one part of a larger issue, addressing the revenues in our city. The parking plan expansion will address implementation, management and yes, revenues. There will be a Zoom Meeting at Town Hall, on July 19th, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. To sign up for the meeting and to review, all of the facts about this program, there is a landing page with all of the information on our web-site at: www.cohb.org . Over the past ten years, there have been many decisions, good and bad, that have helped the City move forward, while maintaining our services. Balancing a City’s budget, is often a daunting task. The City Manger and The Staff need to have clear, concise information and accurate reporting. Leadership is key and with the past year’s turmoil, turnover and lack of technology investments, this has shown, that clear information has been elusive. Even with having information, there needs to be oversight and a vision of where we need to be, as a City. It is a joint effort, where the Commission, is involved, it is also where residents need to get involved and provide input. There is this temptation to look to the past with questions like: How did we get here? Who was in charge? Why did we make that decision? Why did we not make that decision? It is not, that it is not important to understand why we have gotten here, but, it does not also change what we need to do as a City and as a Commission, moving forward. As the old saying goes, “It is water under the bridge.” I would, however, like to say that NO, is a not a solution when it comes to the budget. Political populism often gives way to practical solutions and often, it creates, extremely difficult decisions. We need to get three votes, to pass a budget and it is required, by law. During the last budget Meeting, we had a turnover, in our City Manager's position. Dr. Jeremy Earle was hired from within our organization, before working for Hallandale Beach, Dr. Jeremy Earle, worked as an Assistant City Manager, in Fort Lauderdale, before that, he was The Dania CRA's Executive Director. I had a chance to work with Dr. Jeremy Earle, in his capacity, as a Board Member of The Florida Redevelopment Board of Directors and then, as President. We do not have control over hiring positions under the City Manager, but when his name came up, I was happy to share my observations. I have personally been watching Dr. Jeremy Earle’s career, over the last year and really pushed to get him hired. Dania’s CRA, was established without a tax increment and funding a partnership, with Broward County, which means that there is no money, except, for the City’s funding. Dr. Jeremy Earle’s prowess, creativity, financial knowledge and leadership have been proven, in the progress, that we all have seen with the growth of Dania. During his terms as President of the FRA, he took their budget and turned it around with his stability and leadership, skills. He was hired in Fort Lauderdale, by City Manager Feldman, who, is considered one of the Deans of Fort Lauderdale's City Managers. If anyone can correct the course of our City’s finances, it definitely, is Dr. Jeremy Earle. Over the years, our City and many other cities have had to deal with, the artificial restraints of Save Our Homes, the State’s meddling, our ability to raise taxes and fee’s, the state's unfunded mandates and the voter's referendums to reduce taxes. They all sound great, but, we have had grave consequences with our ability to provide services to our residents demand's and what the law requires. City’s can levy up to 10 mills on a property, Cities, like ours, have special districts, that can only tax up to 8 mills, currently, we are at 7 mills and we are faced with a cap. The alternatives are to raise fees, leverage our City's assets in the public realm, this generates revenues or, it can cut services. Over the years, we have used our reserves or sold some of the City's assets, to balance our budget. Reserves are needed in the case of natural disasters and should be used, in certain instances. Years ago, we held reserves that almost equaled, our amount for the general fund. There was huge public and statewide push, to reduce and reverse it to realist levels. Government agencies typically, have debated on where, the sweet spot for reserves with a range of 10 to 15%. Currently, we, will be out of reserves by 2024, if all of the things, remain the same. So, this is the year, to evaluate, all of the avenues to increase revenues. We also need to come together and look at all of the contracts and the services, to evaluate realistic levels of service, within our City's Budgets. The City Manager's Budget was released this Monday and over the next month, as a commission, we will be reviewing the budget, this will give us, the chance to review provided changes and uses of the votes for the Budget. I encourage all of our residents, to get involved with the process and provide us with your input. Your help with this process will determine the future for all hallandale beach residents. As always, feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns and ideas on how to make our City, a great place to live, work and play! I am available on my phone or by text at: (954) 632-5700. You can e-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or visit my Facebook page at: Mayor Joy Cooper. Or you can visit, my web-site at: www.MayorJoyCooper.com < Previous News Next News >

Let's Get Social - Again! The Pandemic Couldn’t Stop These Social Citizens Tue Jun 15 2021 04:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductees - The Drifters And The Lovin' Spoonful At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center January 29, 2025 Share The City of Aventura proudly presents two unforgettable evenings of music featuring iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees when The Drifters take the stage at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 7th and The Lovin’ Spoonful comes to town at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 21st at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. The legendary music of The Drifters comes to life during Black History Month. The contributions to Rhythm and Blues of this trailblazing group earned The Drifters the distinction of being the first Black artists inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The group's historical journey, led for the last 25 years by star Lead Singer Jerome Jackson, has covered the entire spectrum of Rock & Roll. The group's historical journey has seen them produce classics such as “Up On The Roof,” “Under The Boardwalk,” “This Magic Moment,” “There Goes My Baby,” “Dance With Me,” “Spanish Harlem” and “Stand By Me.” As musical innovators, they are the first musical group to add string instruments to Rhythm and Blues music and the first to sell two million records. The Drifters received a Grammy® nomination for Best Rock and Roll Recording for "Under The Boardwalk," which has been listed as the most-played Rhythm and Blues record of all time. Audiences will relive the joyous sounds of the ‘60s with The Lovin’ Spoonful, a group whose infectious hits and sunny melodies made them one of the decade's most beloved bands. Known as America's answer to the Beatles, the group exploded onto the charts sending their first seven singles soaring onto Billboard's Top 10 chart virtually overnight. Their first single, "Do You Believe In Magic," flew to the top of the charts and was followed by an unprecedented string of hits including: "Daydream," "Younger Girl," "Summer In The City," "You Didn't Have To Be So Nice," "Coconut Grove" and "She's Still A Mystery (To Me)," among others. Today, the Lovin' Spoonful tours with founding member Steve Boone along with Jeff Alan Ross, Bill Cinque, Rob Bonfiglio and Mike Auturi as they faithfully celebrate the music of this Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee. Tickets to all shows are on sale now. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy 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 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram: @aventuracenter. Or: #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-Square-Foot, 330-Seat Waterfront Complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. < Previous News Next News >

Brushstrokes For History December 13, 2023 Share South Florida Teen Transforms Abandoned Buildings Into Works Of Art High School Honors Student, Yana Danzig's Unique Non-Profit Initiative Brings Communities Together Through Art and History. After being featured in WSVN's Spotlight Series: https://wsvn.com/news/7spotlight/local-teen-painter-works-to-educate-revitalize-one-of-broward-oldest-black-neighborhoods-in-a-creative-way/, which celebrates positive change-makers in South Florida, she started getting requests from other cities on how they can do the same in their city. In response to the growing demand, the NonProfit Brushstrokes for History, founded by 18-year-old Danzig, is set to expand beyond its successful start in Fort Lauderdale’s Sistrunk area. Brushstrokes’ innovative approach uses the power of art to breathe new life into local histories, fostering community pride and revitalization. The before and after pictures tell the story best. Brushstrokes for History's mission is to serve as the brush that paints the history of communities that may be overshadowed. Through collaboration between artists and residents, the organization transforms wooden panels, originally used to cover broken doors and windows, into beautiful works of art. This unique method of storytelling through art has empowered residents and artists alike, turning neglected buildings into symbols of community pride and history. This expansion even extends beyond U.S. borders, with interest coming from Windsor, Ontario, Canada in establishing a new chapter, marking the initiative's first foray into international collaboration. “Our journey in Sistrunk was just the beginning. I see Brushstrokes for History not just as an art project, but as a worldwide movement to rejuvenate and connect communities through their rich histories,” Danzig explains. “Every city has a story to tell, and we’re here to bring those stories to vivid life.” The initiative's impact in Fort Lauderdale came into clear focus when over 75 faculty and Staff from Broward College, joined by alumni and local leaders like Vice Mayor/Commissioner Pamela Beasley-Pittman, joined Brushstrokes for History in transforming a historic building in Sistrunk. Their efforts showcased the potential of community transformation through art: https://news.broward.edu/2023/10/bc-cares.html Further elevating its profile, Brushstrokes for History collaborated with the NFL for a painting event, successfully hosting a pop-up art show with more than 80 attendees, including three NFL players, showcasing the universal appeal of this unique intersection of art, history and community. Danzig's vision is clear: “Every city has unique historical gems that are often overlooked. Our mission is to illuminate these stories, engaging local communities in a shared effort to celebrate and preserve their heritage. We believe this can be a catalyst for change, inspiring a brighter, more connected future for all.” With this in mind, Danzig encourages those inspired by this movement to get involved. She is calling on anyone interested in starting a Brushstrokes for History chapter in their hometown to please contact her at: yana@brushstrokesforhistory.org . “We're excited to grow this initiative and see how communities around the world can unite through their shared histories and art,” she added. As Brushstrokes for History prepares to paint its narrative across more cities, it invites communities everywhere to rediscover and honor their local histories through the transformative power of art. For more information, see: www.Brushstrokesforhistory.org - Or on Instagram at: brushstrokesforhistory < Previous News Next News >

Aventura Acknowledges World Mental Health Day: To Promote Education, Treatment, Dialogue And Wellness Practices Wed Oct 18 2023 16:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Educating Asher
: A Story About Loss, the Friendships That Shape Us, and Most Importantly, Love July 21, 2022 Share Multi-talented South Florida actor and cabaret artist Eytan Deray has added playwright to the list of his accomplishments. His new play, Educating Asher, will have its world premiere at Empire Stage. The production will open on July 29th and run through August 14th at the popular Fort Lauderdale venue. “I started writing Educating Asher 5 years ago as personal therapy after finding out about a beloved teacher’s passing,” Deray explains. “Now it’s a fully realized portrait of grief, friendships between generational gaps, and the importance of teachers/mentors in our life. This play is for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation, and my hope is that audiences will leave the theatre not just moved, but ready to start a much-needed conversation.” Hiding in the kitchen at a reception for a funeral, Asher is not quite sure how to process his grief over the loss of his former middle school teacher, Elliott Weiss, who he hasn't spoken to or seen in five years. His boyfriend Mark tries to encourage him to talk to Mr. Weiss's widower, Nick, but to no avail. Soon enough, Asher is forced to confront his grief when Elliott's ghost appears in the kitchen with him. It's only now that Elliott is gone that Asher can finally say everything he ever wanted to the teacher that changed his life. “Eytan’s play is deeply personal, somewhat autobiographical, and he has brought in a team of his close friends to help him tell this story,” says Educating Asher’s director Seth Trucks. “It’s been a very powerful experience, the cast is amazing, are all working beautifully together, and I cannot wait to share his play with everyone.” Trucks has cast Murphy Hayes as Elliott, Michael Harper as Mark, and Noah Levine as Nick. Eytan Deray will play Asher. Harold Petion will serve as the production’s Stage Manager. Lighting Design is by Preston Bircher, Set Design is by Johnbarry Green and Jordon Armstrong, and Sound Design is by Seth Trucks. Tickets for Educating Asher are $25 and are available online at www.empirestage.com or by calling 954-678-1496. Performances are on Friday and Saturday at 8 pm, and on Sunday at 5 pm. All performances will take place Empire Stage, 1140 N. Flagler Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. For more information about Educating Asher, to arrange to see a performance, or for interviews or photos, please contact Carol Kassie at carol@carolkassie.com / 561-445-9244. < Previous News Next News >

Get Ready For The Solar Eclipse: Visit The Library For A FREE Pair Of Glasses For This Rare Celestial Event Thu Sep 14 2023 16:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

YMCA Of South Florida To Host Healthy Kids Day - Free Event Welcomes Kids & Teens Of All Ages For Fun And Fitness South Florida Sun Times Apr 24, 2025 The YMCA Of South Florida Hosts The Annual FREE Healthy Kids Day On Saturday, April 26th, 2025 From 9:00 a.m. To 12:00 p.m. Noon At Seven YMCA Locations Across Broward And Miami-Dade Counties. Sponsored by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Miami Marlins, Nicklaus Children’s Health System and Publix Charities, this free event, open to all South Florida residents regardless of YMCA membership, highlights health and wellness activities for children, such as summer camp, youth sports, swimming lessons and more and offers a fun-filled day of family-friendly activities for the entire community to enjoy. There will be sports and wellness demonstrations, bounce houses and slides, musical entertainment from live DJs, carnival games, food trucks and more. Community partners will also be represented. In addition, those registering for summer camp onsite will receive exclusive summer camp discounts. “Our Annual Healthy Kids Day shines a spotlight on teaching kids the importance of a healthy body and mind in a fun way,” said YMCA of South Florida President and CEO Sheryl A. Woods. “This is an annual event for YMCAs across the country. Anyone can come by to learn more about keeping kids active and healthy through YMCA programs.” Additionally, the YMCA will host a special Salute to Fleet Week Healthy Kids Day at the Weston YMCA this year. It is a partnership with Top Gun Olympics and Broward County Public Schools JROTC. The Weston YMCA Healthy Kids Day will feature carnival games and activities for the entire family, the Top Gun Olympics fitness challenge with sailors, Marines, Law Enforcement and fitness enthusiasts, as well as robotics STEM activities. For additional information, and to register, visit: ymcasouthflorida.org/healthy-kids-day - Or contact the YMCA of South Florida at: (954) 334-9622. Healthy Kids Day Locations in Broward County: Greater Hollywood YMCA Family Center, 3161 Taft Street, Hollywood, Florida 33021, Hallandale Beach YMCA Family Center, 501 Southeast 1st Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009, L.A. Lee YMCA/Mizell Community Center, 1409 Sistrunk Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311, Pembroke Pines YMCA Family Center, 501 Southwest 172nd Avenue, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33029, Weston YMCA Family Center, 20201 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, Florida 33327. Healthy Kids Day Locations in Dade County: Village of Allapattah YMCA Family Center, 2370 Northwest 17th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33142, South Dade YMCA Family Center, 9355 Southwest 134th Street, Miami, Florida 33176. About the YMCA of South Florida: For more than a century, the YMCA has been woven into the fabric of the South Florida community. As an award-winning NonProfit, the Y is committed to strengthening community through more than 200 programs serving everyone from six months old to 100 years young. Our Family Centers and programs are inclusive, vibrant hubs of community life, offering a diverse array of classes, cutting-edge fitness facilities, life-saving aquatics, exciting community events, unforgettable camps, supportive After School Care, holistic health and wellness programming. At the Y, there’s something for everyone. Join the movement by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Or: https://YMCASouthFlorida.org . Previous Next

Flamingo Gardens To Unveil Everglades Outdoor Classroom - New Outdoor Experience Connects Communities To Conservation Through Immersive Everglades Exploration South Florida Sun Times May 15, 2025 Flamingo Gardens, In Collaboration With The Museum Of Discovery And Science (Mods) With Support From The Community Foundation Of Broward, Will Officially Open The Everglades Outdoor Classroom With A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony On Wednesday, May 28th, At 10:00 a.m. This New Outdoor Learning Experience Invites Guests Of All Ages To Explore The Heart Of The Everglades Through Interactive Exhibits And Educational Programming Designed To Foster A Lifelong Love Of Nature And Conservation. The Everglades Outdoor Classroom is a companion to the recently launched Nature Explore: Outdoor Exhibit at MODS in Fort Lauderdale. Together, these two sites create a dual-campus experience that highlights Broward County’s native ecosystems and supports environmental awareness across South Florida. “By connecting communities through conservation, the Everglades Outdoor Classroom serves as a living laboratory where children and families can discover the beauty and importance of the Everglades,” said Keith Clark, CEO of Flamingo Gardens. “This initiative represents a shared commitment to preserving Florida’s natural heritage while empowering the next generation of environmental stewards.” Set within the lush grounds of Flamingo Gardens, the Everglades Outdoor Classroom features hands-on learning zones where guests can investigate Everglades habitats, learn about native and invasive species, explore the interconnectivity of humans with plants and animals in the Everglades ecosystem. The experience encourages scientific inquiry and environmental responsibility, aligning with state education standards and enhancing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) learning opportunities for local schools and youth programs. The Everglades Outdoor Classroom and the accompanying Nature Explore: Outdoor Exhibit at MODS highlight our vital connection to nature, focusing on the Florida Wildlife Corridor and the effects of urban sprawl on native ecosystems. While MODS explores urban habitats, Flamingo Gardens immerses guests in the rich biodiversity of the Everglades, emphasizing the importance of conservation and habitat protection. Through interpretive signage, hands-on learning activities and the use of natural materials that reflect the landscape, this outdoor space provides a dynamic environment for both facilitated and self-guided exploration. The experience reinforces how backyards and local green spaces serve as critical extensions of the Florida Wildlife Corridor, helping maintain habitat connectivity for native species such as the Florida Panther, Bald Eagle, Butterflies like the Zebra Longwing, Atala and cloudless sulphur, along with plants and other pollinators. “The Everglades Outdoor Classroom is a shining example of how community collaboration and visionary philanthropy can bring transformative educational experiences to life,” said Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, Ph.D., President & CEO, Community Foundation of Broward. “By connecting children and families to the wonder of the Everglades, we’re nurturing a deeper understanding of our environment and inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders. This project reflects the passion of local philanthropists who believe in protecting our natural resources and ensuring a thriving, sustainable future for Broward County.” Support for the Everglades Outdoor Classroom has been provided by the following Funds at the Community Foundation of Broward: Mary N. Porter Community Impact Fund, Mary and Alex MacKenzie Community Impact Fund and The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Broward Community Fund. Additional support has been provided by the State of Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservations Commission, Bass Pro Shop & Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation, Helen Ingham Foundation, Lakeside Foundation and numerous private donors. The Everglades Outdoor Classroom is included with general admission tickets to Flamingo Gardens. For more information, please visit: https://flamingogardens.org . About Flamingo Gardens Feed a flamingo at this botanical garden & wildlife sanctuary! Established in 1927, Flamingo Gardens is one of the oldest botanical gardens in South Florida. The 60-acre Non-Profit Botanical Garden and Wildlife Sanctuary contains over 3,000 tropical and subtropical species of plants and trees including 22 of the largest trees of their species in Florida. Its Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the largest collection of rescued Florida native wildlife in the state, including Alligators, Bobcats, Otters, Eagles, a Black Bear and Flamingos. Visit the historic Wray Home Museum and take a narrated tram tour through native jungle growth and wetlands. Located at 3750 South Flamingo Road, Davie, Florida 33330. For more information, please visit: https://flamingogardens.org - Or call: (954) 473-2955. Previous Next

Are We The Proverbial Frog In The Boiling Pot? Totalitarian Paranoia Run Amok: Pandemics, Lockdowns & Martial Law Thu Feb 03 2022 05:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)