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“Where Does YOUR House of Worship Fit in YOUR Home?” Jeff Jacob - jeff@tbehollywood.com Jan 8, 2025 A 2023 Gallup poll found that the percentage of Americans attending weekly religious services fell from 42% to 30% over the past 20 years. The article further broke these numbers down by individual religion. Sixteen percent of Jews responding to the survey expressed that they attend services weekly. And, while there was no deeper dive into the denomination breakdown, it stands to reason that if one were to remove Orthodox Jews from that equation, the percentage of Jews attending weekly services would be far, far lower than 16%. Ouch. In 2025, after piano and ballet lessons, soccer practice, Social Media time, Netflix, family time, friends, chores, school work, and the two of you working three jobs…where does the temple fit in? In other words, where does your house of worship fit in your home? As a Synagogue Executive Director, I’ve seen firsthand how much of a struggle it can be in many Reform and Conservative congregations to put “butts in the seats” for regular Shabbat services…therefore, I can’t say that I’m surprised by the results of this study. Although it is still shocking to see the actual numbers, many churches are also struggling with these questions. In this day and age, if one is not particularly observant, what does it take to garner enough interest in someone to make them desire to be regularly involved, in some shape or form, at the nearest temple? What can get you there? Charismatic, authentic Clergy is certainly a starting point. Gotta have it. Geography is also key. Who wants to drive more than 10-15 minutes to a house of worship when there is so much else vying for your attention? Even growing up in the 80s, I know that I was not the only one in my Hebrew and Sunday school classes who would have preferred being at soccer or basketball practice with my Christian friends. We were already being over-programmed as kids back then, but we didn’t have smart phones or Social Media, Prime, Apple +, Hulu, etc., streaming every single possible thing in the world right to our own personal hand-held movie theater. All of these options right at our fingertips have quelled the desire of more secular-leaning adherents of various religions to attend worship services even more. Kids are glued to their screens, and after an exhausting day, or week at work, so many parents simply want to tune out as well. Time for Netflix seems to be a common mantra after dinner hour for many of us. The aspect of Temple as a possible “3rd place” outside of work and home began decades ago, but with the growing popularity of coffee shops and personal electronics that trend has dramatically reversed itself in many instances. At Temple Beth El of Hollywood, we’ve been asking ourselves hard questions these past few years. Since COVID-19 really, as that period made so many of us reconsider and rethink both how we live, and how we “do business.” Questions such as, “How can we continue to offer the basics of what the older generations expect in a synagogue, while somehow trying to alter our operations, our programs, our long-range vision to adapt and be relevant to a changing world?” In a world where Zoom is a verb, and virtual programs are here to stay, why would someone get off the couch to come to a temple and worship, play, learn? The obvious answer would seem to be that most of us still seek a sense of belonging, community, caring, and continuity. But that drive to commune with one another doesn’t seem quite enough anymore to compete with all of the options and distractions available to us. Like most Jewish houses of worship, we host Shabbat services, Sunday School, Adult Education, celebrations of major holidays, Sisterhood, Brotherhood, Social Action, and Bar/Bat Mitzvah training. We also have a wonderful, Apple-Accredited Preschool. None of this is extraordinary, rather it’s a baseline. For Bar or Bat Mitzvah, we actually have 2 different tracks. And what does this mean? Traditional Track: Through being a member family of our congregation, and attending our Sunday School, a child is eased along the path of a modern, Jewish education that eventually evolves to include learning about what it takes to become an adult in Judaism, and training on how to get there. The benefits of this traditional model are well-documented. A sense of community and relationships that come with being part of a temple or synagogue is a major reason many of us commit to being supporting members of a “House of Worship.” However…. We’ve been hearing for years that there is a significant portion among the less observant who long for their children to have the Bar/Bat Mitzvah experience without committing to supporting a temple community. It may be sad, but that doesn’t make it untrue. Therefore, we created our “APP Program.” In this transactional, fast-food, ADHD, multi-personal-device, person-driven society, many Jewish and interfaith families are disinterested in being a part of a “fixed Religious community.” And yet, they STILL want to provide that one rite of passage that is definitively Jewish for our kids. A Bar/Bat Mitzvah. For families that fit this mold, this program exists. Without any of the commitments that come with joining a congregation, a family can have their son or daughter go through training (on average 9-12 months) with our well-loved and talented Cantor, Manny Silver, who does a wonderful job of “meeting kids where they are” in his mentorship. Truly personalized paths of learning that towards the end of the process are also joined in on by our Rabbi, Aaron Sataloff, so that he can get to know each student and add to their experience before it’s time to stand on the Bimah together. Over the years, many students and their families have benefited from this program, and we feel it’s a necessary component of ensuring the survival of our peoplehood. While it may sound counter-intuitive since those who take advantage of this path are basically unengaged at the temple most of the year, we are still assisting in the continuation of Jewish knowledge and identity…and pride. And even though this may NOT ensure the survival of all temples and synagogues in a new world, it CAN help Judaism survive, thrive, and evolve. We cannot be so enamored of the four walls we inhabit that we disregard the potential to keep a flame of Jewishness lit out in the world. By any means necessary and at our disposal. And to that end, we’ve also created a festive “Alternative Shabbat Experience,” which we call 2nd Saturdays/Shabbatstock. As the name suggests, on the 2nd Saturday of each month October through May, our Worship band, JewGrass Revival, leads a folk-rock-oriented service under the big, beautiful trees on our front lawn. The goal in creating this experience was to make a once-a-month, Shabbat “mini-festival” feel that would be appealing to those who just don’t want to be with us, or can’t be with us on Friday nights. This dog-friendly environment features a coffee truck serving lattes and espressos, etc., a big lawn for the kids to run around on, and often a post-service activity such as yoga, a Ukulele Circle, or story time for the little ones. Neighbors stop by and commune in a VERY casual Shabbat experience. The Neshama in nature is 2nd to none. Outside the walls! We even offer a boutique Yoga & Fitness Studio in our Chapel every Monday through Friday with expert practitioner Sue Elle Strong. We love embarking on “field trips” with our congregants to baseball games with the Marlins, and basketball games with the Heat, as well as museums and member-hosted house parties where we expand beyond the four walls, out into our broader community. If you’ve reached this point in the article and would like to know more about any of the above-mentioned items, or would like to talk regarding anything else temple-related, please reach out and say hello. We’d love to show you around and share a cup of coffee. If you’re interested in signing someone up for our APP program, mention this article and receive a $500.00 credit towards their training! Shalom. Jeff Jacob jeff@tbehollywood.com Previous Next

From Miami’s Jewish Beginning, There Was Isidor Cohen By Sylvia Gurinsky Feb 18, 2025 Recently the City of Miami celebrated Isidor Cohen, a true pioneer of Miami, with the naming of Isidor Cohen Road. The event, held with family and friends present at the Center for Jewish Life at Beth David, 2625 Southwest 3rd Avenue, honored his legacy of community growth, cultural inclusion, and vision for our city’s future. (Pictured: All descendants of Isidor and Ida Cohen.) In June, 1896, Isidor Cohen, a young merchant, was beginning his first summer in Miami and was already experiencing business ups and downs, mosquitos, snakes, rats and hot weather. Nevertheless, he wrote in his diary, “This is going to be a wonderful city.” Greater Miami has had its own ups and downs, but Cohen’s prediction has generally been correct. And he and his family have been among the reasons for that success. Cohen had arrived in February, 1896, two months before the first train. He tried to negotiate with Julia Tuttle for land on the north side of the Miami River. She recommended he take a job clearing land. “I tried to impress this naïve lady that the last labor of this character my race had performed was in the land of Egypt, and that it would be a violation of my religious convictions to resume that condition of servitude,” he later wrote. After starting on the south side of the river, Cohen soon moved to the north side, where most of the business was. He quickly became part of the growing community, joining most of the new organizations except the Tuxedo Club – because he didn’t own a tuxedo. In July, 1896, Cohen voted to officially incorporate the city of Miami. He took note of the Black men who voted and spoke in favor of the new city and wrote favorably about them. His book, “Historical Sketches and Sidelights of Miami, Florida,” was published in 1925 – the first locally published book with a positive look at the Black community. In the beginning, things looked favorable for the growing Jewish community as well, with an 1896 Commemoration of the High Holy Days. But two fires and a Yellow Fever Epidemic before 1900 temporarily reduced the size of that community. Cohen didn’t give up. In 1904, he married Ida Schneiderman, the widow of another early Miami Jewish merchant, and adopted her son, Murray. Isidor and Ida added two more children – daughter Claire and son Eddie, who had the first Bris in Miami in 1908. The growth extended far beyond the family. In 1912, Isidor and Ida were among the founders of Beth David Congregation, the city’s first and oldest Synagogue. In 1941, Ida Cohen was a principal creator of what’s now Miami Jewish Health Systems. After World War 2, the Cohens were among the founders of Mount Sinai Medical Center. During the 1950’s, Claire Cohen Weintraub helped to begin what is now the Frost Science Museum. By the time Isidor Cohen died in 1951, Miami was on its way to becoming a major international center. Today, members of his family continue as community leaders. In January, the City of Miami honored Cohen by naming the street just north of Beth David Congregation for him. Such an honor is long overdue for a primary founding father of Jewish Miami. Isidor Cohen was the father of Greater Miami's Jewish community - Credit: www.museumoffamilyhistory.com In January, the City of Miami honored Cohen in a ceremony by naming the street just north of Beth David Congregation for him. Credit: Miami-Dade Communications Department Isidor and Ida Cohen and family with Claire Weintraub (Right) - Credit: www.floridamemory.com Ida Cohen, wife of Miami's first permanent Jewish settler, Isidor Cohen - Credit: www.museumoffamilyhistory.com Previous Next

Jewish Family Home Care Once Again Awarded With Three 2025 Best Of Home Care® Awards Pictured: JFHC CEO Robin Miller Feb 18, 2025 Jewish Family Home Care (JFHC) – a not-for-profit agency – is honored to announce that it once again received three 2025 Best of Home Care Awards from Activated Insights, formerly Home Care Pulse, the leading firm in experience management for post-acute care. The awards include the Leader in Experience, Provider of Choice and Employer of Choice. JFHC received all three awards in 2024 and both the Best of Home Care® – Provider of Choice and Employer of Choice Awards from Activated Insights in 2023. JFHC provides multi-reach, non-medical home quality home health care for Broward County, Florida seniors from all reaches of life and any faith. JFHC is one of the largest providers of home health care providing assistance to Holocaust survivors and anyone in Broward County needing in-home care. Providing service to more than 400 clients, including over 300 Holocaust survivors, JFHC offers services such as home health aides, companions, housekeepers and certified nursing assistants. It delivers tailor-made home health care plans, with special consideration to patients’ physical and emotional needs, as well as their family’s budget. The Leader in Experience Award is the highest recognition awarded by Activated Insights and is given to select home care businesses that consistently rank among the very highest in 10 or more quality metrics. As a Leader in Experience, JFHC is now recognized among the top 10% of home care providers participating in the nationwide Activated Insights Experience Management program. This accomplishment demonstrates JFHC’s long-term dedication to excellent care and quality improvement. To qualify for this award, 10% of JFHC’s clients and caregivers were interviewed each month by Activated Insights. Over 12 months, JFHC received high client and caregiver satisfaction ratings in areas such as caregiver training, compassion of caregivers, communication, scheduling, client/caregiver compatibility and more. Using feedback from clients and employees, as well as quality benchmarks from Activated Insights, the JFHC management team set goals to reach the highest level of experience possible. The Best of Home Care® – Leader in Experience Award highlights the top-performing home care businesses in the nation. Activated Insights believes that by honoring these providers, families looking for in-home care for a loved one will be able to recognize and choose a trusted home care provider. The Provider of Choice and Employer of Choice Awards are granted only to the top-ranking home care providers, based on client and employee satisfaction scores gathered by Activated Insights. JFHC is now ranked among a small handful of home care providers across the country who have proven their ability to provide an exceptional working experience to employees and the highest quality care to clients. Best of Home Care providers have contracted with Activated Insights to gather feedback from their clients and caregivers via live phone interviews each month. Because Activated Insights is an independent company, it can collect honest and unbiased feedback. “We are proud to once again be honored with the 2025 Best of Home Care® – Leader in Experience, Employer & Provider of Choices awards from Activated Insights,” said JFHC CEO Robin Miller. “Each of these awards is a true testament to our commitment to providing exceptional in-home care to our families, as they are based on testimonials from both our clients and our caregivers. This wouldn’t be possible without my incredible team who shares my passion for excellence and delivering the best results to our clients and their families. Knowing that we’re making a difference in the lives of others fuels our passion and commitment to exceeding expectations every day.” “At Activated Insights, our mission is to help post-acute care businesses create an experience that goes beyond client and caregiver expectations; ultimately improving outcomes for all stakeholders in the care continuum,” says Bud Meadows, Chief Executive Officer of Activated Insights. “When we see agencies like Jewish Family Home Care that have so effectively provided outstanding care and employment experiences, we know we’re on the right track. Jewish Family Home Care has worked extremely hard to prioritize high-quality care and employment, and their work hasn’t gone unnoticed. These awards allow them to show proof of quality to potential clients and caregivers.” To find out more about JFHC’s commitment to excellence, please visit: www.JFCares.org - Or call: (954) 908-5677. Previous Next

Roll With The Punches By Judith Levy Jan 7, 2025 Life offers many ups and downs. Some blows, especially the unexpected ones, bolts out of the blue, are more hurtful than others, but what choice do we have? We must endure. The loss of loved ones, parents, partners, and worst of all a child leaves no option but to reel from the blow, get up, steady yourself and go on. Many times, we wonder what we did to deserve this unspeakable sadness. There are no answers for you, only words of sympathy that are being offered by friends who want to, but don’t really know how to comfort you. You listen, appreciate their kindness but nothing will help other than the passage of time. You look at the pictures of your dear loved ones, even talk to them, but nothing will ease your pain other than some momentary distraction and the ticking of the clock, heralding the passage of time. The calendar betrays your true feelings with each passing birthday or anniversary that shouts at you, remember me and the good times we spent together. Of course you do remember them, and painful as it is, you hold those memories dear and try to comfort yourself with recollections of the heartfelt times and the laughter you shared with these people whose absence leaves a permanent hole in your heart. I know it’s difficult, been there and done that, but do try to look forward. The people you loved would want that for you. Your happiness would be their fondest wish, so embrace that thought and try to face tomorrow with good thoughts and a smile. Rain makes flowers bloom and then to everyone’s joy, the sun comes out. Sometimes reaching out to be with someone who has walked the road you are now traveling on offers a modicum of relief from sorrow. Helping others might help you. Try it. Judith Levy speaks for organizations and is the New York Times best-selling author of GRANDMOTHER REMEMBERS, which has sold over four million copies and the mega best-seller GRANDFATHER REMEMBERS published by HarperCollins. Both books, perfect gifts, are available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Previous Next

Chanukah Discovery: Rare Coins Unearth Hasmonean History By Hanan Greenwood and Assaf Golan Jan 7, 2025 A remarkable archaeological discovery emerged in the Jordan Valley during this year’s Chanukah Festival: a cache of coins minted under King of Judea Alexander Jannaeus, a significant ruler of the Hasmonean Kingdom from 104–76 BCE. Jannaeus (whose Hebrew name was Jonathan, as revealed in historical records and confirmed by numismatic evidence) was descended from a lineage of revolutionary Hasmonean leaders. He was the son of John Hyrcanus, the grandson of Simon, and the great-grandson of Mattathias, who sparked the rebellion against Antiochus IV Epiphanes and the Seleucid Empire. That historic uprising, which began in 167 BCE, culminated in the Temple’s purification from Syrian-Greek idolatry and the genesis of the Chanukah celebration. The rebellion led to the establishment of a sovereign Jewish kingdom under Hasmonean leadership. Conducted by the University of Haifa’s premier archaeological team—including Shai Bar from the Zinman Institute of Archaeology, Yoav Farhi and Michael Osband—the excavation uncovered a previously unknown roadside complex. “The site features a ritual bath, water reservoir and additional structures along Nahal Tirzah’s [the Tirzah Stream’s] banks, situated on the primary route leading to the Sartaba Fortress, which Jannaeus himself constructed,” Bar elaborated. Farhi, the Israel Museum’s ancient coin curator, noted the cache’s remarkable uniformity. Each coin bears an eight-pointed star with an Aramaic inscription reading “King Alexander Year 25” on one side, and an anchor with a Greek inscription on the reverse. Dated to 80 or 79 BCE, such comprehensive coin collections are exceptionally rare in archaeological research, making this discovery particularly significant. “Discovering this Hasmonean treasure during Chanukah imbued our work with profound meaning, especially amid the current challenging national context,” Bar said. “We hope this site will become a cherished public landmark, enriching Israel’s archaeological heritage.” Originally published by Israel Hayom. Photo by Shai Bar/The Zinman Institute of Archaeology - Ancient coins minted under King Alexander Jannaeus, found in the Jordan Valley. Previous Next

Memorial For Miami-Dade Mayor’s Mother Held At Chabad Chabad Chayil Feb 18, 2025 Pictured: Barry Snyder with Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. A Shloshim Memorial Service honoring the life of Lois May Jaffin Levine, the mother of Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, was held this week at Chabad Chayil in Miami-Dade North. The program began with a heartfelt performance by children from Chabad’s CHAP Program, a daily after-school program for Jewish public school students. The children sang a song about the neshama, setting a reflective tone for the evening. Rabbi Moishe Kievman of Chabad Chayil then taught 2 Mishnas corresponding to Lois May’s Jewish name, Leah Malka, with a Kabalistic Chassidic explanation based on the teachings of The Rebbe. The Kel Maleh Rachamim prayer was led by Rabbi Zalman Gansburg from Chabad of Palmetto Bay. Mayor Levine Cava read two poignant poems her mother wrote shortly before her passing, offering a glimpse into her mother’s wisdom. Everyone there joined together in singing a chapter of Tehillim, followed by Kaddish and the traditional verses of condolences. The mayor was presented with a plaque representing a dedicated square foot in the new Chabad Chayil center currently under construction in Highland Lakes. Her name will also be on permanent display together with all others that are dedicated square feet or any part of the building. https://BuildChabadChayil.org The event, which drew community members and local leaders, exemplified the values of faith, family, and community that Lois Levine instilled in her loved ones. Mayor Levine Cava, the first Jewish and first female mayor of Miami-Dade County, has been a trailblazer in public service. Overseeing a government with more than 28,000 employees and serving nearly 3 million residents, she manages an annual budget of $13 Billion. Originally from Brooklyn, she was first elected as a Miami-Dade County Commissioner in 2014 and became mayor in 2020, securing re-election in 2024. The Memorial service was organized by Rabbi Moishe & Layah Kievman. Rabbi Kievman who helped the mayor place Mezuzahs in her office when she was first elected, and has made sure she has Shmura Matzah for her Passover Seders said that: “We are lucky to have a mayor who understands the needs of each community and makes it her business to do whatever she can to help. When there was an issue with the Jewish schools throughout the county being faced with a choice of either opening up their schools to everyone, thus losing their identity, or to give up on funding, we turned to Mayor Levine Cava. The mayor called all involved parties to that meeting and made sure all issues were resolved before the meeting finished. Can you imagine the nachas of hundreds of Jewish children being able to attend Jewish schools, given to her late mother?” The memorial ended with the mayor together with everyone there making blessings on different types of food. Giving hundreds of merits to her mother's soul. Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava talking with Rabbi and Layah Kievman and Avremel. Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava accepts the plaque: https://BuildChabadChayil.org Kievman family with Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. Previous Next

Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Presents The Shvesters & More: Transforming classic Yiddish and Jewish melodies into Sophisticated, Contemporary Harmonic Arrangements Photo Credit Broward Center for the Performing Arts Feb 18, 2025 The City of Aventura has an entertaining Lineup in store for you featuring Yiddish and Jewish melodies, a Piano Festival with Ilya Itin and more. This celebration of talent and artistry promises unforgettable experiences for every audience. Timeless, dazzling, and distinctive, The Shvesters, transform classic Yiddish and Jewish melodies into sophisticated, contemporary harmonic arrangements on Thursday, March 20th at 8:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Recognized for their tight harmonies, soulful grooves and rich improvisation, The Shvesters (Chava Levi and Polina Fradkin) have gained a reputation for their unique, refreshing interpretations of Yiddish standards and traditional Jewish songs. The duo has garnered widespread attention, with media coverage from The Jewish Journal, Voice of America, and The Grammys and sold-out concert halls in New York, Paris, Tel Avivnand beyond. The Shvesters are finally bringing their music to the stage in Aventura, supported by pianist Moshe Elmakias, with a performance that is sure to transport the audience to another world. Miami International Piano Festival presents Ilya Itin, known for his extraordinary range, power, quality of sound and command of the piano, on Sunday, March 23rd at 5:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Since capturing the Gold Medal, BBC Audience Award and Contemporary Music Prize at the 1996 Leeds International Piano Competition, Itin has performed throughout the world bringing his powerful musical imagination and mastery to wide ranging repertoire. Itin’s “Russian Marathon” concerts at the Miami International Piano Festival captured his historic recording of all 24 Preludes of Rachmaninov, and Prokofiev’s 7th and 8th Sonatas performed in one day. He released his newest recording of the complete Debussy Preludes on vinyl and high-definition audio in 2016 and his Princeton recital in July 2015 that featured beloved works by Rachmaninov and Scriabin will also be released as a state-of-the-art high-definition recording of the live performance. London's Daily Telegraph reported, "Itin’s is a rare and exciting artistry indeed … Poised, pure, and ravishing in its range of colour, Itin’s playing is a prime example of a superb technique put at the service of an inquiring and imaginative mind.” 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, 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 Next

The New Year For Trees By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil Feb 18, 2025 When’s the last time you wished a tree Happy New Year? Coming up this year on Thursday, February 13th, is a great opportunity to do exactly that. The day is known as Tu B’Shevat, and Jewish people throughout the world celebrate it as the New Year of Trees. Well, it’s the trees that will celebrate, but we’ll celebrate together with them! After all, the Torah says, “Man is a tree of the field.” We are nurtured by deep roots, as far back as Abraham and Sarah; we reach upwards to the heavens while standing firmly on the ground; and when we do all this right, we produce delicious fruit that benefits the world—namely, our good deeds. Since Tu B'Shevat is known as the "New Year for Trees," this would naturally be a time for trees to engage in soul-searching — the same way people do on Rosh Hashanah. Here is a tree's New Year Checklist by Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe which we have posted on: www.ChabadChayil.org/tubshvat • Did I shelter the seedlings that live in my shade — so they will grow up to be a next generation like myself? • Did I grow towards the sun as a tree should, reaching up higher and higher towards that which I can never grasp, but which nurtures me all the same the more I strive towards it? • Did I make sure my roots remain firmly planted in the soil that nurtures them, and did I drop my leaves there in the fall to give back life to that which sustains me? • Did I ensure that my fruits were sweet and nourished all that came to enjoy them? Did everyone walk away from me with a smile? • Did I bend gently in the wind, accepting what G‑d sends but never breaking or giving up hope? • Did I grow in strength and wisdom with each new ring this year? Come to think of it, it’s not a bad checklist for us humans either! Traditionally, we make sure to eat fruit on this day. After all, that's what the fruits were created for. And like us, they are happy and feel fulfilled when they serve their purpose. We try to include some of those fruits for which Israel is famous, like olives, dates, grapes, figs and pomegranates. But regardless of which fruit we eat, as with any food, we always precede it with a blessing, thanking G-d for sharing with us his delicious creations. The blessing for fruit in Hebrew is Baruch atah A-donay, Elo-heinu Melech Ha’Olam borei pri ha-aitz. If it’s a fruit that we haven’t yet enjoyed this season we make an additional blessing of Ba-ruch A-tah A-do-noi E-loi-hei-nu Me-lech ha-o-lam she-he-chee-ya-nu v'ki-yi-ma-nu vi-hi-gi-ya-nu liz-man ha-zeh. This year we will host a special workshop on growing MicroGreens and Sprouts at home. It will take place on Wednesday, February 12th, 7:00 p.m. at Chabad Chayil in the Highland Lakes section of Miami-Dade North. You can learn more about this holiday at: www.ChabadChayil.org/tubshvat . We wish all of our neighbors and friends a Happy Tu B’Shvat! May all our trees grow forth beautifully, giving off delicious fruit! About the Author : Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, your local CTeen & CKids chapters, CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools and direct Chabad Chayil. He’s the Rabbi at The Family Shul and can be reached at: (305) 770-1919. Or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org Previous Next

Celebrating Celia Malavsky By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 On November 2nd, 2024, Celia Malavsky of Hollywood, Florida turned 100 years old and her family gathered from across the nation and even from Israel to celebrate her. In honor of Bubby’s 100th birthday, her 13 grandchildren (and their spouses) and 38 great-grandchildren, all contributed to Jewish National Fund-USA to plant a garden of 100 trees in Israel in her name. Said her granddaughter, Shira Stein, “A tree represents life, growth, wisdom and prosperity. All of these qualities describe their beautiful Bubby filled with life, wisdom and love. All of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren have been nurtured and have grown from the roots that she has provided to each individual in her family tree.” Celia and her husband, Rabbi Morton Malavsky z”l have fostered a love of Israel in all of their children and grandchildren and even facilitated many of their grandchildren’s first trips to Israel together with them. In fact, two of Celia’s great-granddaughters are currently serving in the IDF and sent special birthday messages since they were unable to attend the party. These 100 trees honor not just the many wonderful years of Celia’s life, but also her ongoing commitment to her family and the Jewish homeland. Photo credit her granddaughter, Shira Stein Previous Next

Local News South Florida Sun Times • PROFILES • Aventura Digest The Countdown Is On: America’s Premier Culinary Celebration! Tickets Selling Fast For The 24th Annual South Beach Wine & Food Festival The 24th Annual Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®), and food enthusiasts across the nation are eagerly anticipating this star-studded culinary extravaganza. Taking place from Thursday, February 20th - Sunday, February 23rd, 2025, on the pristine sands of Miami Beach, the festival promises a weekend brimming with world-class food, fine wine, and top-tier entertainment. With over 500 chefs, winemakers, and spirit producers coming together to EAT. DRINK. EDUCATE., this year’s event is shaping up to be more spectacular than ever. February 20, 2025 Read More Ann Storck Center To Host 29th Annual Celebrity Chefs Event The Highly Anticipated Event Will Feature Tastings From Local Chefs, Live Entertainment, Auctions And More February 20, 2025 Read More Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale: Every Day, 37 Lives Are Needlessly Cut Short In Drunk Driving Crashes Drunk driving deaths have increased by 31% over the past decade with someone being killed or injured in a drunk driving crash every 78 seconds. Two out of three people will be impacted by drunk driving in their lifetime. Drunk driving is a 100 percent preventable crime, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)’s goal is to end impaired driving. February 20, 2025 Read More The Beach Boys Bring Those Good Vibrations To The Broward Performing Arts Foundation’s Annual Celebration The Beach Boys will rock the Broward Center for the Performing Arts with a rare, up-close-and-personal performance in the Center’s intimate Amaturo Theater on Saturday, March 1st at 8:30 p.m. The legendary group will headline the Broward Performing Arts’ Foundation’s Annual Celebration to benefit the Center’s education and enrichment programs. Presenting sponsors are long-time Broward Center supporters Charles and Laura Palmer. February 20, 2025 Read More Coronary Artery Disease: It's American Heart Month, Get Screened With The Latest Technology Your heart beats about 100,000 times daily, bringing oxygen and nutrients to every cell to keep your body working its best. Just as an engine keeps a car moving, your heart is the driving force that keeps your body healthy and active. And, much like you'd maintain your car's engine, healthy habits are vital to keeping your heart functioning properly and preventing heart disease - the leading cause of death in the United States. February 20, 2025 Read More What You Need To Know About Glaucoma More than 4.2 million Americans live with Glaucoma, a leading cause of vision loss in the nation. Although there is no cure for Glaucoma, early detection and treatment can stop this condition in its tracks. February 20, 2025 Read More A Special Valentine’s Dinner: Reminding Homeless Residents There Is HOPE And People CARE About Them Valentine's Day took on a special significance beyond the usual expressions of love among friends and family. For the homeless population of South Florida, it was another day of loneliness on the streets. However, The Caring Place at Miami Rescue Mission| Broward Outreach Centers organized an extraordinary event to remind these individuals that there are compassionate souls who deeply care for them and are eager to provide support. This year our Meals and More ambassadors were part of the serve day at all centers, these individuals sponsor monthly meals at our centers, learn more at: www.caringplace.org/meals. February 20, 2025 Read More Bittersuite: Songs Of More Experience: "A Musical ‘Selfie’ Taken Forty Years Later...And Reflects Some Of The Deeper Perspectives Time Brings With It.” Elliot Weiss and Michael Champagne’s award-winning song cycle, Bittersuite: Songs of More Experience, will run for two performances only at the Levis JCC Sandler Center March 22nd and 23rd. The production is part of the JCC’s Robert Greenberg Performing Arts Series. February 20, 2025 Read More Registration Open For All Abilities Spring Classes: Four Different Dance And Sing-Along Classes Are Available At The Broward Center Made possible through the generous support from the Taft Foundation, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts is hosting All Abilities classes beginning in February with interactive and engaging arts experiences in a supportive and welcoming environment for those with physical and developmental disabilities. February 20, 2025 Read More A Legacy Of Hope: This Month Commemorates Black History Month Over the weekend, our Hallandale Beach Police Athletic League held its Annual Comedy Show and with great success, having a sold-out room for a great cause. Gulfstream Park graciously provides their beautiful venue. The show that featured MC Richie Minervini, Jeff Norris, and John Joseph with Special Guest Mr. Bruce Smirnoff left the crowd in stitches. For more information, visit: Facebook - PAL of Hallandale Beach. February 20, 2025 Read More Spring Break Rocks: Enrollment Is Now Open For Spring Break And Summer Theater Camps At The Broward Center It’s never too early to plan for camp, so the Broward Center for the Performing is offering a host of popular, award-winning theater camps during spring break and throughout summer for children and teens. Enrollment is now open and space is limited. February 20, 2025 Read More Retiring Well: 68% Of Americans Say It's Living A Little By Affording Experiences That Bring Joy What makes for retiring well? For most Americans, it's living a little by affording experiences that bring joy (68%) and enjoying a high quality of life (49%), balanced by the security of reaching savings milestones (68%), according to new Empower research. February 20, 2025 Read More Is There A Constitutional Crisis: Can The Rule Of Law Survive This Presidency? This has all the makings of a constitutional crisis. According to law professor Amanda Frost, “a constitutional crisis occurs when one branch of government, usually the executive, ‘blatantly, flagrantly and regularly exceeds its constitutional authority — and the other branches are either unable or unwilling to stop it.’” February 20, 2025 Read More Gospel Music Legend, Bill Gaither Kicks Off 2025 Love Like I’m Leaving Tour In Florida Multi-Grammy Award winning recording artist, Bill Gaither will kick off the LOVE LIKE I’M LEAVING Tour this Spring, as he brings his multi-award winning group, The Gaither Vocal Band to 16 cities during February, March, April and May. The first weekend of stops will take place in multiple cities throughout Florida, including the stop at the Community Christian Church, located at 10001 West Commercial Boulevard, Tamarac, Florida 33351 on Thursday, February 20th. February 20, 2025 Read More Open Call To Artists Announced: Business For The Arts Broward’s 7th Annual ART + STROLL Project Business for the Arts Broward (BFA) is seeking entries from established and emerging artists for its 7th Annual ART + STROLL, presented by BBX Capital. Artists must be 18 years or older. February 20, 2025 Read More Connect With Experts & Get Inspired : Time To Turn Your Entrepreneurial Dreams Into A Thriving Business The City of Hollywood, Office of Communications, Marketing & Economic Development, and the Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce have partnered to present From Idea to Empire: 2025 Launch Your SPARK. February 20, 2025 Read More What Is An IRA? Everything You Need To Know If you’re an employee thinking about how you can save for retirement, individual retirement accounts, better known as IRAs, are worth considering. Almost anyone with earned income can open an IRA, which makes it different from a 401K, which you can only participate in if your employer offers one. There are several different types of IRAs, each with its own requirements and features, but all offer important tax advantages that could help you save more for your future. February 20, 2025 Read More Avenue Q, The ‘Triple Crown’: Tony Award-Winning Musical That Is ‘Part Flesh, Part Felt And Packed With Heart’ Entr’acte Theatrix’ first production of 2025 will be Avenue Q, the ‘triple crown’ (Best Musical, Best Score, and Best Book) Tony Award-winning musical that is ‘part flesh, part felt and packed with heart’. The production will run from Thursday March 6th – Sunday, March 16th in the Bhetty Waldron Theatre at Actor’s Rep in West Palm Beach. February 14, 2025 Read More Legally Blonde The Musical: A “…Nonstop Sugar Rush Of A Show…” Ben Brantley, The New York Times The Broadway at LPAC series second production of the 2025 Season is Legally Blonde The Musical. The show will run from Thursday, February 27th through Sunday, March 16th at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center. February 14, 2025 Read More NoMi Beats & Bingo: City Of North Miami Presents A Fun-Filled Afternoon of Music, Games, and Community As part of the City of North Miami’s 2025 Black History Month festivities the City of North Miami proudly presents NoMi Beats & Bingo Brunch, a dynamic event designed to bring the community together for great entertainment, friendly competition, and socializing in a vibrant atmosphere over delicious food. February 14, 2025 Read More Divine Dramatic Divas Dishing: 20th Anniversary Season of CULTURE & COCKTAILS At The Ben Dave Lawrence, President & CEO of the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County today touted the second of three fun and fascinating programs during the 20th and final season of the popular series: CULTURE & COCKTAILS At The Ben. February 14, 2025 Read More Broadway, Ballet & Brothers: An Entertaining Lineup At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center The City of Aventura is ushering in March with dazzling performances featuring world-class ballet, Broadway legends, Motown hits, comedy and more. This month-long celebration of talent and artistry promises unforgettable experiences for every audience. February 14, 2025 Read More Tacology Wynwood Is Now Open: Bringing A Fresh Taste Of Mexico To Miami’s Artistic Hub Tacology Wynwood has officially opened its doors, bringing a vibrant and authentic Mexican dining experience to one of Miami’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Located in the heart of Wynwood, the new venue builds on the success of its Brickell location, offering the same signature culinary excellence and lively atmosphere that has made Tacology a favorite among locals and visitors alike. February 14, 2025 Read More Former Wife of Apollo 14 Astronaut Recounts Remarkable Stories in Riveting New Memoir Told with humor and a sense of awe, You Don’t Look Like an Astronaut’s Wife! from Anita Mitchell shares her improbable journey from small-town beginnings in Medina, Ohio, through her life in Florida with then-husband and sixth man to walk on the moon Astronaut Edgar Mitchell — set against the thrilling and historic backdrop of the U.S. Space Program. February 14, 2025 Read More Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Presents: An Entertaining Lineup Of Music, Melodies & More This Month The City of Aventura has an entertaining Lineup in store for you featuring Yiddish and Jewish melodies, the 2025 Broadway Concert Series, a Piano Festival and more. This celebration of talent and artistry promises unforgettable experiences for every audience. February 14, 2025 Read More Forks Up, SoFlo! Why SOBEWFF® 2025 Is A Festival Like No Other • 15 Reasons The 2025 South Beach Wine & Food Festival Is A Can’t-Miss Epicurean Event The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by Capital One (SOBEWFF®) is back for its 24th year, and if you’re not already blocking off February 20th - February 23rd on your calendar, you just might miss out on the most epic epicurean event of 2025. This four-day extravaganza of flavor, fun, and famous faces is Miami Beach’s ultimate celebration of all things food and drink. February 14, 2025 Read More Aventura Branch Library Happenings: Discover Your Jewish Genealogical Roots, Tai Chi, LEGO At The Library And Much More The Aventura Branch Library has a wide variety of On-line and In-Person events. There will be Furry Tales, Parkinson's Support Group, e-Device Advice and much more. Some events may require you to RSVP, so, please go On-Line to register At: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura - Or for more information prior to attending the event, Call: (305) 931-5512. February 14, 2025 Read More The Miami International Piano Festival Spectacular: Presents Ariel Lanyi (Israel) A Fascinating, Unique & Compelling Artist Ariel Lanyi returns to the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center for the third time. He is a pianist, intensely musical, intellectually probative, and well-focused. His authority, which belies his age, takes no prisoners as he expertly leads us on a no-nonsense artistic journey as satisfying as it is substantive. There is nothing in the least superficial about Mr. Lanyi’s always thoughtful music making, which speaks volumes for the artist he is and continues to blossom into. February 14, 2025 Read More South Florida’s Freedom Tax Center: Your Trusted Partner in Navigating Complex Tax Matters – We're Open for Business! The ever-changing landscape of tax laws can be daunting for many individuals and businesses. However, there’s a trusted partner in the region that has been easing the burden of tax-related stress and ensuring accuracy and compliance for years - Freedom Tax Center. February 14, 2025 Read More A Miracle of Faith: Heleni Ezra’s Incredible Journey Eight months ago, Heleni Ezra faced the unthinkable. A tragic accident left her fighting for her life, and doctors gave her no chance of surviving beyond a few hours. It was a moment of profound sorrow, a time when hope seemed all but lost. But as the news of her condition spread, something extraordinary began to unfold something that would defy medical expectations and inspire all who witnessed it. February 14, 2025 Read More Serving Children Since 1971: New State-Of-The-Art Playground and Basketball Court Unveiling This Week Broward Children’s Center – a NonProfit Organization dedicated to serving infants, children and young adults who are developmentally disabled and medically fragile and their families – is proud to unveil a brand-new playground and basketball court at its BCC Academy in Dania Beach. February 13, 2025 Read More Miles For Meals: 14th Annual Outrun Hunger 5K Broward County At Vista View Park Feeding South Florida – the Leading Hunger-Relief Organization in South Florida – will host its 14th Annual Outrun Hunger 5K on Saturday, April 5th. At an all-new location this year, runners, walkers, families and community leaders of all ages will come together to take steps to raise funds and awareness to end hunger in South Florida at Vista View Park in Davie. February 13, 2025 Read More Calling All Conservation-Artists: Hollywood’s Annual DropSavers Conservation Poster Contest Is On Calling all conservation artists, now is your chance to compete for great prizes, recognition for your art and your school and most importantly, help educate your community about Water Conservation. Create an original design depicting the importance of water conservation and enter it in the City’s DropSavers Water Conservation Poster Contest. February 13, 2025 Read More Comedy & Community: The Mission Of The City of Hallandale Beach Is To Promote Economic Development And Enhance The Quality Of Life This weekend, Saturday, February 15th 2025 our Hallandale Beach PAL will be hosting their Annual Comedy Show at the Sport of Kings Ballroom. Gulfstream Park graciously provides their beautiful venue. February 13, 2025 Read More Kassandra Timothe, MPA, Appointed As Vice Mayor Of North Miami The City of North Miami proudly announces the appointment of Councilwoman Kassandra Timothe, MPA, District 2, as Vice Mayor. This appointment was made during the Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 28th. February 13, 2025 Read More ArtServe’s Exhibit "Burnout And Black Artists: Emotional Sustainability In The Arts" Explores The Complex Emotional Landscape Of Black Artists ArtServe recently celebrated the opening of its first exhibit of 2025, “Burnout and Black Artists: Emotional Sustainability in the Arts,” bringing together a diverse audience from the local South Florida community for an evening of live music, dance and thought-provoking art. February 13, 2025 Read More “South Florida’s Kids Got Talent” Competition: Free Family Fun At Tri-Rail's Herzog "Rail Fun Day" With Talented Young Singers From The Region Free family fun rolls back into town with Tri-Rail’s Herzog “Rail Fun Day” presented by TransDev on Saturday, February 22nd, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport Station at Dania Beach, located at 500 Gulf Stream Way, Dania Beach, Florida 33004. Attendees to the annual complimentary day will enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts, interactive games, cookie decorating, face painting and more! Plus, families will enjoy photo opportunities with Tri-Rail’s mascot Conductor George Green and popular costumed characters, giveaways, food trucks and the “South Florida’s Kids Got Talent” singing competition. February 13, 2025 Read More Love Is In The Air At The Parker This February Love is in the air this February with musical talent from Chris Botti, Foghat, Herb Alpert, Kate Pierson of the B-52s, Robert Trower, Little Feat, Robert Cray Band, A.J. Croce and Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, plus comedy greats MODI and Kathleen Madigan and so much more at The Parker in the Lillian S. Wells Hall. February 13, 2025 Read More Swing Into Spring At The Parker: Music, Laughter And Dance Take Center Stage This March Spring is in the air, along with laughter, music and dance this March at The Parker, with tributes to The Beatles and Chicago, Jazz great Spyro Gyra with Lee Ritenour, hits from They Might Be Giants, Andy Grammer and Jefferson Starship, mind-bending dance movement from MOMIX, comedy from Howie Mandel, Bored Teachers and #IMOMSOHARD and more. February 13, 2025 Read More 61st Annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival: Celebrating The Talent And Dedication Of Artists Nationwide The highly anticipated 61st Annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival (CGAF), presented by First Horizon Bank, returns this year, showcasing a stellar lineup of 285 internationally acclaimed talented artists from across the United States. This premier outdoor art festival, set in the heart of Coconut Grove, has become a haven for art lovers and collectors eager to experience the creativity and craftsmanship of professional artists who dedicate their lives to their craft. February 13, 2025 Read More March Roars And Soars With Broadway Hits, Musical Legends, Comedy And Family Fun March roars in like “The Lion King” and breezes through with a show-stopping lineup of music, theater, comedy and family fun that will inspire, entertain and delight audiences all month long at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, from the Broadway smash hit “Something Rotten!” to musical legends The Beach Boys and John Waite, a tribute to Cream, Ari Shapiro in a cabaret-style solo show, sensory-inclusive magic with Kevin Spencer, a family-friendly musical with storybook characters Elephant and Piggie, stand-up comedy with Carlos Ballarta, an immersive murder mystery on foot and much more. February 13, 2025 Read More South Florida’s Freedom Tax Center: Your Trusted Partner in Navigating Complex Tax Matters – We're Open for Business The ever-changing landscape of tax laws can be daunting for many individuals and businesses. However, there’s a trusted partner in the region that has been easing the burden of tax-related stress and ensuring accuracy and compliance for years - Freedom Tax Center. February 6, 2025 Read More In Florida, Are REALTORS® Real Estate Agents? As usual, an answer to this week's headline question is more involved than it may initially seem. Before trying to arrive at one, we first need to define, discuss, and expand on the following terms: • REALTOR® • Agency relationships • State business or professional licensee February 6, 2025 Read More Rock 'N' Roll On The Beach: Tribute Act Series Lights Up The LOOP With Legendary Hits From Iconic Tribute Acts Everyone under the sun is invited to join The LOOP for the ultimate backstage pass to iconic music under the stars! The Ninth Annual Friday Night Sound Waves “Backstage Pass” series lights up Las Olas Oceanside Park with legendary hits from iconic tribute acts. The free concert series will take place every Friday, from February 14th to March 28th, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. February 6, 2025 Read More The Time Has Come For Rosemary's Miami: Highly-Anticipated NYC Mainstay Opening To The Public On Friday, February 7th The much-anticipated opening for Rosemary’s Wynwood has arrived! The beloved Italian neighborhood restaurant from New York City will open in the heart of Wynwood located at 322 Northwest 25th Street, Miami, Florida 33127 on Friday, February 7th, 2025. February 6, 2025 Read More Experience History And Culture: During L'Chaim: A Toast To The Jewish Legacy Of Broadway In an enchanting celebration of music, history and heritage, the City of Aventura presents L'Chaim: A Toast to the Jewish Legacy of Broadway on Wednesday, February 19th at 8:00 p.m. and Thursday, February 20th at 8:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. February 6, 2025 Read More Romance Fizzling Instead Of Sizzling? Relationship Experts Share New Approach For Overcoming The Valentine’s Day Blues After holding out hope for a romantic Valentine's Day, the disappointing reality over what their partner didn't do prompts many people to ask themselves, "Is this relationship enough for me?" And with the answer often comes an urge to try to talk their partner into couples counseling, hoping for the ultimate fix. Not so fast, say relationship experts Stacey and Paul Martino, who warn that all-too often, couples counseling does more harm than good. February 6, 2025 Read More IGNITE Broward 2025 Brings Immersive Light & Art to Hollywood’s ArtsPark South Florida’s premier festival of immersive light and sound-based art, IGNITE Broward, returns for its fourth year from February 14–23, adding the City of Hollywood as a location for the first time at ArtsPark. February 6, 2025 Read More The Sterling Aventura Hosts Miami Coalition On Aging Event At the Event (L to Right): Martha Fernandez Premier Homecare Services, Lian Longobucco Right at Home In Home Care & Assistance, Bruce Elfenbein The Retirement Co., Yoni Markhoff, Esq. JD, MBA Elder Solutions Law Firm, P.A., Kristin Landahl Executive Director The Sterling Aventura, Eli Zen Trusted Credit Repair, Kathya Masis Bristol Hospice, Mark Monaghan, BSW The Sterling Aventura Director Of Sales And Marketing, Linda Barg Manzini CEO/Founder Women In Networking Know, and Alan Frent Alliance For Aging, Inc. Director Of Communications & Development. February 6, 2025 Read More Legislative Session And Condo Laws As legislators are meeting in Tallahassee there has been discussion around the need to address the ambiguity in the current law requiring Condominium Structural Integrity Study and Full Reserves. As a Mayor, in a city with 100’s of condominiums, this issue has been of critical importance for many of our residents. So, what is being discussed? February 6, 2025 Read More Discover The Profound Relationship Between Mental Health And Spirituality Spirit is pure source energy, untarnished by restrictive, limited beliefs, judgment, thoughts, or attitudes, explains Sherianna Boyle, a psychic healer and coach since 2002. February 6, 2025 Read More Broward County Transit 2025 Bus Safety Roadeo: A Celebration Of Community And Skill At This Family-Friendly Event This past Sunday, Broward County Transit (BCT) held the 2025 Bus Safety Roadeo, the exciting event celebrated the dedication and skill of BCT's bus operators and maintenance technicians. This year's Roadeo took place at the Amerant Bank Arena Park and Ride, marking the first time this event was open to the public. February 6, 2025 Read More A Showcase of Skill and Community Spirit: The Broward County Transit 2025 Bus Safety Roadeo Everyday heroes often operate in the background, unnoticed yet indispensable. Such is the case with bus operators, professionals whose expertise and commitment ensure the seamless movement of a bustling community. But once a year, they step into the spotlight for an event that celebrates their skills, precision, and dedication: the Broward County Transit 2025 Bus Safety Roadeo. January 29, 2025 Read More Fall In Love With Fun: February's Festivities at The LOOP Welcome Everyone Under the Sun This February, The LOOP Fort Lauderdale Beach becomes a hub of heartfelt celebrations with a series of free, family and pet-friendly events designed to spread love and joy all month. From the romantic We Still Do: Valentine's Day Vow Renewal Ceremony to the vibey 60’s beach party themed Fifth Annual Fur the Love Pet Fest, a Goddess Gathering Galentine’s Flow to the Friday Night Sound Waves Backstage Pass Tribute Series, there's something special for everyone under the sun to adore. January 29, 2025 Read More Slow Burn Theatre Company Presents “Parade,” at The Broward Center For The Performing Arts Slow Burn Theatre Company presents “Parade,” a powerful and poignant musical revival based on the true story of the trial and lynching of Leo Frank, as part of its 2024/2025 Season supported by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale Saturday, February 8 – Sunday, February 23 in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, including an open captioned performance on Sunday, February 16 at 2 p.m. and a series of post-performance chats with an ADL representative on Saturday, February 15, at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, February 16, at 2 p.m. January 29, 2025 Read More Stylish, Savory And Sensational: Fort Lauderdale’s Sunness Supper Club Now Open Fort Lauderdale’s newest restaurant & bar sensation – Sunness Supper Club (SSC) – has officially arrived on historic Sunrise Boulevard as the restaurant made its grand debut just in time to welcome the new year. Named in honor of Owner/Operator Michael Stanley’s late grandfather, the completely renovated space at 2465 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 which Michael helped curate, ushers in a delicious new dining destination delivering soulful American cookery, craft cocktails and hospitality befitting a restaurant designed, as it was, to deliver a fine dining-level experience without the formal trappings. At its heart, Sunness Supper Club was created to be the type of restaurant any great neighborhood would want and deserve. January 29, 2025 Read More North Miami Mayor Alix Desulme Receives Prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award From President Joe Biden The City of North Miami proudly announces that Mayor Alix Desulme, Ed. D., has been awarded the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious recognition, presented by outgoing President Joe Biden, is the highest honor for volunteer service nationwide. It is bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to building a stronger nation through volunteerism and public service. Desulme’s unwavering commitment to community service and his remarkable achievement of contributing over 500 hours of volunteer work for the betterment of society have earned him this esteemed award. January 29, 2025 Read More Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductees - The Drifters And The Lovin' Spoonful At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center 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. January 29, 2025 Read More It’s Par-Tee Time, All Fore A Good Cause - Boys & Girls Clubs Of Miami-Dade to Host 58th Annual Golf Classic In Memory Of Charles “Bebe” Rebozo The Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade will once again host its 58th Annual Golf Classic in Memory of Charles “Bebe” Rebozo on Monday, March 10th, 2025. The highly anticipated annual event offers players the chance to play for fun or at a competitive level. To play in the tournament, packages start at $5,000 and include fun on-course contests, lunch provided by Hooter’s, an open bar and a dinner banquet with an award ceremony. January 29, 2025 Read More Registration Underway For Kids & Adults - For Spring Classes At Broward Center For The Performing Arts For more than a decade, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts has been educating, entertaining and energizing the community with an impressive lineup of classes for all ages and skill levels. Registration is now underway for spring classes. While several classes are already filled, there are still classes open for enrollment in all age groups. January 29, 2025 Read More Celebrate Valentine’s Day With A Twist During The Love Ball At Aquaplex Fort Lauderdale Aquaplex Fort Lauderdale invites guests to celebrate love with a twist this Valentine’s Day with The Love Ball, a romantic dinner and show event on Friday, Febuary 14th, 2025. Featuring two seatings at 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., the evening includes a three-course dinner and a themed drag performance for $55 per person. January 29, 2025 Read More David Mamet’s Glengarry Glen Ross Opens at Empire Stage Empire Stage and ArtBuzz Theatrics will present Glengarry Glen Ross, David Mamet’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play from February 7th through February 23rd at the popular Fort Lauderdale venue. The production will be helmed by noted director Amir Darvish. January 29, 2025 Read More Holocaust Memorial And Immigration - Hallandale Beach Has Taken A Strong Position When It Comes To Law And Order This Monday was the 80th Anniversary of the Remembrance of the Holocaust. As a daughter of a WWII Veteran, it is also in my opinion to remember the many Veteran “Liberators.” (Pictured: Such as we do on Veteran's Day in Hallandale Beach) January 29, 2025 Read More Hollywood Invites All: To Celebrate at "Party on the J" International Festival & 21st Annual Groundhog Day on Hollywood Beach The City of Hollywood is proud to announce "Party on the J," an International Music, Food & Art Festival that promises a day of vibrant culture, delicious flavors, and exciting entertainment. The festival will take place on Johnson Street, stretching from 58th Avenue to 59th Avenue, and is open to all community members and visitors. January 29, 2025 Read More Fall In Love This February With Unforgettable Performances at The Broward Center For The Performing Arts This February, audiences will fall head over heels for an unforgettable lineup of performances at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Whether it’s date night or an enchanting evening out. January 23, 2025 Read More A Celebration of Women's History Month in Broward County History Fort Lauderdale and Galleria Fort Lauderdale are proud to announce this year’s “Women Trailblazers: Champions of Change - Broward County” January 23, 2025 Read More The Greatest Show Above Earth, Soars Back Onto The Giant Screen - Follow A Year In The Life Of The Blue Angels, From Training Through Touring The Blue Angels have been enthralling spectators across the country and around the globe for more than 75 years. Now, IMAX Entertainment proudly presents a thrilling new abridged version of the documentary The Blue Angels taking audiences soaring with the Navy’s elite Flight Demonstration Squadron as never before. January 23, 2025 Read More 18 Award-Worthy Movies - International Film Festival To Present Screenings At The Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival© (SASIFF), presented by MorseLife, will launch its third season with screenings of 18 memorable movies at the Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse from January 23rd, 2025 - January 30th, 2025, located at 701 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401. January 23, 2025 Read More The French Italian - The Hilarious Closing Night Premiere Of At EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival© (SASIFF), presented by MorseLife, returns early next year with more than two-dozen world-class movies from all over the world, concluding with The French Italian, which The Daily Beast calls “the funniest New York movie in years.” The Florida Premiere of this funny, funny film will be shown on Sunday, February 2nd, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace. January 23, 2025 Read More Your 2025 Health Checklist: A Guide For Medicare Beneficiaries In Florida As we step into 2025, the new year is a chance to embrace healthy living. For seniors and other Florida residents who are eligible for Medicare, key wellness goals start by making healthy decisions in collaboration with your doctor and health plan. When planning for your health in 2025, consider the following goals and tips. January 23, 2025 Read More Helping Students Begin A Career In The Energy Industry - FPL, United Way Miami Launch Program To Train The Next Generation Of Lineworkers Today, Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) and United Way Miami proudly welcomed the first class of students to the pilot Pre-Apprenticeship Program, which will prepare them with technical skills and knowledge required for a potential career as lineworkers. January 23, 2025 Read More Enough Is Enough: Shield Kids From Sexually Explicit Content - The Supreme Court’s Need To Uphold Critical Common Sense Age Verification Law This month, on January 15th, 2025, the United States Supreme Court has an historic opportunity to profoundly impact the lives of America’s youth by protecting them from the evils of online sexual exploitation. By upholding Texas’ age verification law in Free Speech Coalition v. Paxton, 23-50627 (5th Cir. 2024), the Supreme Court can protect the innocence and dignity of countless children. January 23, 2025 Read More My Hollywood Pride “Keep it 100” - Street Festival & Centennial Celebration in Downtown Hollywood This Saturday, January 26th, the fourth annual My Hollywood Pride returns to Downtown Hollywood with the “Keep it 100” themed Street Festival, a City of Hollywood Centennial Celebration, honoring the dynamic South Florida LGBTQ+ community. Presented in collaboration with the Hollywood LGBTQ+ Council, the event will kick-off at 1 p.m. and close at 7 p.m. January 23, 2025 Read More Cashing In On Self-Care: $10,000 New Year Weight-Loss Challenge - HealthyWage Launches Nationwide Free-To-Enter 40-day "Love Your Body Weight Loss Challenge" To help individuals, couples and groups kick off the New Year by embracing healthier habits while also celebrating self-love while working towards fitness goals, HealthyWage—the industry innovating pioneer in weight loss and wellness motivation and incentive programs—today announced the launch of its free-to-enter "$10,000 Love Your Body Weight Loss Challenge "—a 40-day wellness initiative with sign-ups now underway for the January 6th challenge start. January 23, 2025 Read More A Showcase of Skill and Community Spirit: The Broward County Transit 2025 Bus Safety Roadeo Everyday heroes often operate in the background, unnoticed yet indispensable. Such is the case with bus operators, professionals whose expertise and commitment ensure the seamless movement of a bustling community. But once a year, they step into the spotlight for an event that celebrates their skills, precision, and dedication: the Broward County Transit 2025 Bus Safety Roadeo. January 22, 2025 Read More Happy 101st Miriam Esther Schwartz
 Reaching the remarkable milestone of a century is a momentous occasion, and brothers; Wayne and Les Schwartz are blessed to announce the 101st birthday of their mother, Miriam Esther Schwartz. January 22, 2025 Read More Aventura Branch Library Happenings - Furry Tales, Your Vision Board For 2025, Tai Chi And Much More The Aventura Branch Library has a wide variety of On-line and In-Person events. There will be Furry Tales, Parkinson's Support Group, e-Device Advice and much more. Some events may require you to RSVP, so, please go On-Line to register At: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura - Or for more information prior to attending the event, Call: (305) 931-5512. January 22, 2025 Read More Following Old Footsteps - World Traveler Reconstructs Family’s Fascinating History The thrill of a new place fades quickly for Caroline Topperman when she moves from Vancouver to Poland in 2013. As she delves into her family’s history, tracing their migration through pre-WWII Poland, Afghanistan, Soviet Russia and beyond, she discovers that the layers of their complex experiences mirror some of what she felt as she adapted to life in a new country. How does one balance honoring both one’s origins and new surroundings? January 22, 2025 Read More Broadway Gets A Hilarious Twist With Spamilton: An American Parody - The Side-Splitting Musical Satire Lights Up The Stage At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Described by The New York Times as “smart, silly and convulsively funny!” Spamilton: An American Parody will light up the stage at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center for four unforgettable performances on Friday, January 24th at 8:00 p.m.; Saturday, January 25th at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.; and Sunday, January 26th at 2:00 p.m. January 22, 2025 Read More ManateeFest: 9th Anniversary Celebration - Experience The Wonders Of Manatee Lagoon This Cool Weather Season As temperatures drop this winter, Manatee Lagoon - An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® invites visitors to witness the seasonal migration of Florida’s beloved Manatees. January 22, 2025 Read More NFL Hall Of Famer Randy Moss Makes Another Big Play Those craving chicken that’s crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside will find a mouth-watering menu featuring eight different and delicious chicken sandwiches, nuggets, tenders, wings, fries and seven different waffle varieties with playful toppings like Fruity Pebbles and Cinnamon Toast Crunch at Crisppi’s Chicken at 2917 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida 33137. January 22, 2025 Read More Moss Center Presents Lightwire Theater’s “Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey” The Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center is thrilled to bring the world-renowned Lightwire Theater to Miami with its critically acclaimed production, Moon Mouse: A Space Odyssey. Step into a world of light, technology, and imagination on Saturday, January 25th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., for a visually stunning adventure that blends cutting-edge technology, puppetry, and a heartwarming story of self-discovery and courage. Tickets are available at: https://www.mosscenter.org/mc/eventDetail.page?id=333 January 22, 2025 Read More Sunny Isles Beach Residents’ Academy is a 7-session course that will introduce residents to the operations of the City of Sunny Isles Beach. The Academy will explain the policy process, public service delivery and describe how our local government addresses some of its most challenging issues. January 22, 2025 Read More Sixty Vines Brings A Taste Of Wine Country To Fort Lauderdale Sixty Vines, the restaurant known for transporting guests to wine country, is set to make its Fort Lauderdale debut in March. Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale at 800 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301, Sixty Vines invites guests to discover 60 different wines on tap selected from wine regions around the globe paired with vineyard-inspired dishes designed to share among friends. January 22, 2025 Read More Miami New Drama Announces A World Premiere - Bad Dog, A Bold & Hilarious New Play Exploring Art, Identity, and Power Miami New Drama is thrilled to announce the world premiere of Bad Dog, a provocative play written by Harley Elias and directed by Miami New Drama’s Artistic Director, Michel Hausmann. The production will open at the historic Colony Theatre on January 23rd, 2025, offering audiences a darkly comedic look at the high-stakes contemporary art world. January 22, 2025 Read More An Extraordinary Valentine’s Dining Experience Couples looking for an extraordinary Valentine’s Day dining experience will find it at Truluck’s, one of Miami-Fort Lauderdale’s premier special occasion destinations. Best known for its always fresh, sustainably sourced, and meticulously prepared Seafood, Crab, and Lobster, Truluck’s pays equal attention to its hand-cut steaks, offering something exceptional for every taste. January 22, 2025 Read More Xavier Riddle And The Secret Museum - The Exhibit Opens At The Museum Of Discovery And Science Top South Florida Attractions Partner with MODS to Help Bring History to Life with the Xavier Riddle Scavenger Hunt: Passport to Broward - an adventure packed with exploration, learning and the chance to win a prize. January 22, 2025 Read More 2025 Black History Month Contests - Receive A 2-Year Florida College Plan Scholarship Student essay contest winners will receive a 2-Year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation. January 22, 2025 Read More Just In Time For Valentine’s Day! - TikTok Star Jodie Langel Directs: I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change Broadway actor, vocal coach, and TikTok sensation Jodie Langel will helm the Off Glades Theatre Company’s production of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change at Boca Raton’s Willow Theatre. The musical, which has been described as “adorable,” “silly,” and “delightful,” will run from February 14th, 2025 through February 23rd, 2025 at The Willow Theatre in Sugar Sand Park. January 22, 2025 Read More 21st Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Inspirational Celebrations The YMCA of South Florida will once again honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with inspirational celebrations in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties from January 16th through January 20th. January 15, 2025 Read More 20 Air Fryer Cooking Tips & Tricks With throngs turning to their air fryer to knock out easy, healthy and delicious meals, there are some key mistakes to avoid. Below, Cathy Yoder, the “Queen of Air Fryers” with nearly 730,000 followers and 35,000 copies of her air fryer cookbook, “Easy Air Fryer Recipe Book: Best Air Fryer Cookbook Recipes for Beginners to Advanced” sold, notes that, “The air fryer is a kitchen marvel that has taken the culinary world by storm. With its innovative technology, you can enjoy crispy, delicious meals with significantly less oil than frying and bake faster than in the oven." January 15, 2025 Read More Step Afrika! To Wow Audiences At The Parker Audiences won’t want to miss the opportunity to see Step Afrika!, the world’s first professional dance company dedicated to the tradition of stepping and one of the top 10 African American dance companies in the U.S. Step Afrika! will kick off Black History Month, performing in the Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker on January 29th at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Broward Center’s Mosaic Series. January 15, 2025 Read More Embark On A Culinary Adventure - This January And February At Arc Culinary's Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen Indulge in a journey of flavors this new year with Arc Culinary’s Chef Experience Dinners at the Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen. Ticket sales from every Chef Experience Dinner support Arc Broward’s mission of providing opportunities for Children and Adults with Disabilities and other life challenges to realize their full potential. January 15, 2025 Read More America's Chronic Disease Epidemic - How RFK Jr. Could Take On The Ultra-Processed Culprit America may be poised for a nutrition policy reset, one that starts to reverse the epidemic of chronic disease afflicting a majority of Americans. With Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tapped to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, the incoming administration has an opportunity to scrutinize a once-rare but now pervasive ingredient in our diet: seed oils. January 15, 2025 Read More Miami Art League Donates 100 Works Of Art To Coconut Grove Arts Festival’s Young Collectors Club The Coconut Grove Arts Festival (CGAF) presented by First Horizon Bank is thrilled to announce the donation of 100 unique works from the Miami Art League. These incredible pieces will be featured as part of the festival’s much-loved Young Collectors Club, a program in its third year designed to inspire young art enthusiasts aged 5 to 12 to step into the world of art acquisition. January 15, 2025 Read More Welcome To 2025: Where Your Freedoms Go To Die Wondering what to expect from the government in 2025? So far, it looks like it will be more of the same ill-advised, costly, greedy, taxpayer-funded, dunderheaded power grabs, saber-rattling, graft, corruption, and make-works programming that leaves us no better off than where we started. January 15, 2025 Read More The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival - To Showcase Five Fabulous Films for the LGBTQ+ Audience January 23 through February 2, 2025 The Donald M. Ephraim Sun & Stars International Film Festival© (SASIFF), presented by MorseLife, returns for its third season with screenings at the Rinker Playhouse at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts from January 23rd, 2025 - January 30th, 2025 and EVO Entertainment Delray Marketplace from January 31st - February 2nd, 2025. Among the more than two-dozen world-class movies from all over the world are five cinematic offerings that will be of particular interest to LGBTQ+ film fans. January 15, 2025 Read More The Unseen Enemy: Understanding & Managing Tritrichomonas In Cats Tritrichomonas Foetus (Tritric) is a microscopic menace that can turn a household into a battleground of chronic illness. This protozoan parasite often leads to persistent, hard-to-treat diarrhea in cats — especially when litter boxes and living spaces aren’t carefully managed. January 15, 2025 Read More Confused About Nutrition? - Here Are 6 Expert Tips To Help You Eat Healthier Nutrition can be confusing. Every day seems to bring a new headline declaring what's healthy and what's not, whether it's the Mediterranean Diet, Low Fat, Low Carb, DASH, Vegan or High Protein. With all this diet-of-the-minute hype, it's hard to know what we should be eating. On World Food Day, let's cut through the noise, go back to basics and focus on nutrients. January 15, 2025 Read More Resilience & Impressions Of Cuba Last Wednesday night, we held the first commission meeting for 2025 in our chambers. In attendance was Mayor of Sunny Isles Larisa Svechin, Gabriel Baredes the director of the Hispanic Affairs Department at the Consulate General of Israel. January 15, 2025 Read More