Big Adventures, Bright Vibes - Fresh Ride, Bright Vibe: Your Ride. Your Space. Your Community. By Jose Paz, BCT Oct 8, 2025 Every Sunday Morning, 10-Year-Old Ethan Jumps Out Of Bed A Little Faster Than Usual. He Knows It’s Not Just Any Day; It’s “Grandma Day.” For the past year, Ethan and his grandmother Rachel have made it a tradition to ride the bus together every Sunday. It’s their shared ritual: no rush, no screens, no distractions. Just the two of them, discovering new corners of Broward County one route at a time. Sometimes it’s a visit to the park for kite flying and ice cream. Other times it’s a trip to the library, a stop at the local market, or even an afternoon exploring nature at a community center. The destinations change, but the feeling stays joyful, relaxed, and connected. “The ride is part of the adventure,” says Grandma Rachel. “And for me, it’s also a way to keep moving, keep social, and share time with my grandson without worrying about driving or parking.” As a senior, Rachel rides with a reduced fare, which helps stretch his budget. She’s also grateful for the thoughtful design of the buses, which have low floors, accessible seating, and drivers who greet her with a smile and lend a hand when needed. For Ethan, the bus is magical. He loves watching the city roll by, choosing the “best” seat, and announcing their next stop. “It’s like we’re going on a mini vacation every Sunday,” he says. “And Grandma lets me pick the route.” Their favorite trip? “The one where we went to the farmers market, tried dragon fruit for the first time, and rode back home just in time to catch the sunset.” Ron laughs, remembering the day. “It was a great ride. The bus was cool, clean, and quiet. We were tired, but happy. It’s something we look forward to every week.” At BCT, we believe public transit should be more than just transportation; it should be a fresh experience that makes daily life better for every age. Whether you’re a grandparent creating memories or a kid with a curious heart, there’s a seat for you on board. Fresh Ride. Bright Vibe. For senior fares, family-friendly routes, and planning tools, visit: www.Broward.org/BCT - Or call: (954) 357-8400. Previous Next

Hollywood Residents: Parking Ticket Enforcement & Waterline Flushing Continue July 21, 2022 Share Beginning this week, Monday, July 18th, 2022 owners of vehicles with 10 or more Unpaid Parking Citations with the City of Hollywood run the risk of having their vehicle immobilized. Several months ago, the City’s Parking Division partnered with the State of Florida Department of Motor Vehicles to place a hold on Vehicle Registration Renewals for chronic offenders with multiple Delinquent Citations. Following the implementation of this partnership and on the heels of multiple notices from the City and the City’s Collection Agency, vehicle owners who have chosen to remain delinquent may find their vehicle immobilized if parked on a City street or in any other City parking facility at any time, whether it is legally parked or not. All fees must be paid in full to the Parking Office prior to the removal of an immobilization device. The device will remain in-place for a maximum of 3-days before a vehicle is towed, impounded and stored at the owner’s expense. The City Code of Ordinance 72.156 authorizes the use of motor vehicle immobilizing devices for those with three or more citations. Enforcement will continue as the focus narrows to those with three or more citations. Payment Options Pay Online: http://www.hollywoodfl.org/Parking Pay in Person: Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. - 2600 Hollywood Boulevard, West Side Annex Building, Hollywood, Florida 33020. Payment Method: Cash, Credit Card, Money Order or Cashier's Check. For questions regarding this Enforcement Operation, please call the Parking Office at: (954) 921-3535. Water Treatment Continues The City’s Department of Public Utilities’ Annual Free Chlorine Line Flushing Program is in progress and will continue into August. The Free Chlorine portion of this program will end on Monday, August 15th, 2022. If necessary, flushing may continue across the City through Thursday, August 25th, 2022 to achieve optimal System Maintenance. This annual flushing helps rid the water distribution pipelines of any accumulated sediments. The hydrant flushing may temporarily cause cloudy or discolored water, which should clear in a few hours. Residents may also notice a change in the taste of their water during this time as well. The cloudiness is due to sediment in the pipelines and is not harmful or hazardous. You can speed the clearing by opening your faucets and taps and letting them run until your water runs clear. Typically, flushing will take place in the evening hours between 9:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. when the demand for water is low. During the water line flushing period, the Water Treatment Plant will temporarily change its method of disinfection from Chloramines to Free Chlorination. Residents may notice a change in the taste and odor of the water during this time. The City will discontinue Free Chlorination as of Monday, August 15th, 2022. Owners and managers of businesses with fish and shellfish holding tanks and users of Kidney Dialysis machines are advised that regular methods for testing and removing Free Chlorine will not be effective during the remainder of the flushing period. It will be necessary to test and adjust for Chloramines after Monday, August 15th, 2022. Should you have additional questions, please call the City of Hollywood’s Water Quality at: (954) 967-4230 and press option 2. Or call the Water Treatment Plant and ask for Luis Montoya, Public Utilities Manager, or Jorge Marin, Water Treatment Plant Superintendent at: (954) 967-4230. < Previous News Next News >

Aventura Heroes Get Recognized July 19, 2024 Share At the July Commission Meeting, Mayor Weinberg and the Aventura Commission honored some courageous Aventura Residents, as well as some of our own City of Aventura employees, for the amazing work they did to assist our community during the recent flash flood that struck last month. Carolina Duer and her son, Elias, used their own truck to assist 19 people in finding safety during the flood, making this brave duo more than deserving of this Certificate of Recognition. Additionally, they recognized the team at the Rec Center for not only keeping the children safe during the storm, but keeping them entertained and in good spirits until their parents could pick them up safely. ( Credit: https://www.facebook.com/cityofaventura ) < Previous News Next News >

Sun, Surf, Sand & Sweat - The Hollywood Beach Half Marathon & 5K A Premium Running Experience South Florida Sun Times Jul 23, 2026 It's that time of year. Don’t miss out on the most unique event format in South Florida! The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk Half Marathon & 5K! This isn't your traditional Half Marathon & 5K, you will be able to watch the sunrise over the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and hear the sounds of waves crashing as you run just steps from the beach! Win! Win! If that interests you then here is some good news. The Hollywood Beach Half Marathon and 5K is back in a few weeks at Hollywood North Beach Park. Hollywood Beach is a popular stop on the Elite Events South Florida Half Marathon Tour. Hollywood hosts multiple races this year, January & November. The beautiful pre-dawn and sunrise start and run along the Broadwalk are a huge draw for people from all over the U.S. The events take athletes through the eclectic, beautiful area and many stay in local hotels for the weekend. What To Expect Sign up for the Hollywood Beach Half Marathon & 5K run in Hollywood, Florida at Hollywood North Beach Park and experience the ultimate beach view run! The course takes you through the iconic Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, an award-winning beach promenade featuring miles of pristine beach, a picturesque broadwalk, and an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The route follows the beach giving you spectacular views of the Atlantic ocean, and the chance to feel the sand under your feet and the ocean breeze in your hair immediately after you finish. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this event has something to offer for everyone with both Half marathon and 5K options. At the start of the race runners will run along the picturesque Hollywood Broadwalk for miles as the sun comes up. A quick U-turn takes athletes back heading north on the Broadwalk with a good opportunity to see how your friends are doing amid magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. The course takes runners to North Surf Road to again run parallel to the Atlantic, running through a shaded tree tunnel before starting a second loop, until reaching nearly the end of the Broadwalk and Harry Berry Park. A beautiful finisher's medal for both the Half Marathon and 5K plus lots of snacks await at the finish line! As an added benefit you will also get a close up tour of the best that Hollywood Beach has to offer. Both races are also a part of the very popular South Florida Half Marathon Tour! But the fun doesn't stop at the finish line! Hollywood is a city that offers a great blend of culture, entertainment, and outdoor activities. After the race, treat yourself to a well-deserved meal at one of the many seafood restaurants, and explore the city's art scene by visiting one of the many galleries or the Artspark at Young Circle. Take a stroll on the beach, and enjoy the tranquil Gulf waters, or head back over to the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk for a leisurely walk with stunning views of the ocean. Hollywood also offers a variety of fun activities, perfect for families and friends such as visiting the Hollywood Beach Theater where you can enjoy free live performances, or visiting the Hollywood Trolley, an open-air bus that takes you around the city's famous sights and landmarks. Sign up for the Hollywood Beach Half Marathon & 5K run and you'll experience the best of both worlds: a challenging and rewarding run, and an unforgettable adventure in one of the most beautiful places in Florida. Can I Walk The Event? Walkers are welcome at all of the Elite Events! There is a 3.5 hour time limit for the half marathon. After 3.5 hours, the course will open up to traffic. At that point, you must obey all traffic laws as if you were a pedestrian. You will still receive your finisher medal as long as you are close to finishing after the 3.5 hour time limit. Police, Volunteers, and Race Crew will be dismissed after 3.5 hours. All of the finish line and event equipment will be cleaned up after 3.5 hours. Important Information Early Packet Pick Up: Friday, October 16th, 2026 - 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - Runner's Depot - Davie - 2233 South University Drive, Davie, Florida 33324 Race Day Packet Pick Up: Hollywood North Beach Park 5:30 a.m. - 6:00 a.m. Time Limit: 3.5 hours Water Stops: There will be water and Gatorade about every 2 miles or less. Included With Entry Aside from being known for the best "swag" aka finisher medals and race shirts, Elite Events has their FREE Elite Events Tracker App at every race. The app allows spectators to track your progress live on the course and provides you with instant race results. Your accomplishments will be stored in their ‘Lifetime Stats’ database so you can keep track of all of your Elite Events results in one place and see how they stack up against every Elite Event participant ever! Download the Elite Events Tracker Mobile App at: https://rtrt.me/app/elitea for FREE. Awards Pick Up Since the event timing technology allows for live results, you are able to receive your award as soon as you cross the finish line. After you've enjoyed the complimentary post-race refreshments, report to the awards area where one of their team members will present you with your finish results and award. Parking There are only a little over 1,000 parking spots close to the race venue and start. It is highly recommended that you carpool, bike or stay at a nearby hotel. There is limited parking north of the Park available on the side streets at the Hollywood Beach Daily Rate. All athletes parking on the side streets must exit to the north (right) to East Dania Beach Road/A1A only. This event is not organized by the City of Hollywood, for more information about pricing and how to Register, visit: https://www.hollywoodhalf.com/fall---hollywood-beach-half-marathon--5k.html Be a part of the beautiful predawn and sunrise start and run along the Broadwalk, this is a huge draw for people from all over the U.S. 5K Course Half Marathon Course A beautiful finisher's medal for both the half marathon and 5k plus lots of snacks await at the finish line. Previous Next

Don't Flush $$$ Down The Drain: Save Water, Save Money: Broward Water Partnership Raises Toilet Rebate To $125 Thu Jul 13 2023 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Fourth Annual Art & Somm - Fine Wine, Excellent Food And Incredible Art Aventura Digest November 15, 2024 Share Join Business for the Arts of Broward (BFA) for an intimate evening of fine wine, excellent food and incredible art during the Fourth Annual Art & Somm, presented by Burdette Beckmann Inc. (BBI). Guests will enjoy an evening of fine wines, cuisine and an exclusive artist encounter with Internationally acclaimed Miami-based Photographer Anastasia Samoylova, who is also on exhibit at The Met. Art & Somm is set for Friday, November 22nd from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at MAD 481 South Federal Highway, Dania Beach, Florida 33004. Tickets to this exclusive private event are $250 per person and seating is limited. Tickets are available here, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting BFA’s Endowed Fund for the Arts at the Community Foundation of Broward. Samoylova, is a Russian-Born Artist who alternates between observational photography and studio practice. Beginning in October 2024 her exhibition "Floridas: Anastasia Samoylova and Walker Evans" will be featured at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City until May 2025, coinciding with the release of her comprehensive monograph, "Adaptation," published by Thames & Hudson. The exhibition brings together photographs and paintings of Florida by two artists of different generations who have sought to understand its complexity and contradictions. Samoylova relocated to Miami in 2016 where she has focused on documenting environmental threats facing flood-risked communities. This led to her first major monograph, FloodZone. Her ongoing "Florida's" project presents a multifaceted portrait of the state's cultural and political identity, while her Image Cities series explores urban landscapes worldwide. Samoylova's recent accolades include a shortlist nomination for the Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation prize as well as prestigious awards such as the Ellies Creator Award. Her works are held in renowned collections, including those of The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Pérez Art Museum Miami. For more information about Anastasia Samoylova, visit: www.anasamoylova.com - Or: @anasamoylova on Instagram. In addition to title sponsor BBI, the incredible wine selection is generously provided by BREAKTHRU Beverage Group. Additional sponsors include BBX Capital, ICON, Yes We Are Mad, UBS, RSM, FPL, First Horizon, Pierson Grant Public Relations and Hoffman’s Chocolates. To become a sponsor, visit: https://bfabroward.org for sponsorship packages. For additional information, contact BFA’s Executive Director Robyn Vegas at: (954) 940-4933. Or: rvegas@bfabroward.org . CALENDAR BRIEF: Join Business for the Arts of Broward (BFA) for an intimate evening of fine wine, excellent food and incredible art during the Fourth Annual Art & Somm, presented by Burdette Beckmann Inc. (BBI). Guests will be guided by a sommelier for a wine tasting and food pairing while enjoying an artist encounter with featured artist Anastasia Samoylova. Art & Somm is set for Friday, November 22nd from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at MAD, 481 South Federal Highway, Dania Beach, Florida 33004. Tickets to this exclusive private event are limited and are $250 per person. Tickets are available here, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting BFA’s Endowed Fund for the Arts at the Community Foundation of Broward. About Business for the Arts of Broward Business for the Arts of Broward is a Not-For-Profit 501(c)(3) engaging businesses and business leaders to advocate and educate about the importance of the County’s art and cultural community as well as to recognize the connection between cultural vitality, creative success and economic development. To learn more, visit: www.Facebook.com/BFABroward - Or: www.bfabroward.org . < Previous News Next News >

‘We the People’: Are the New, Permanent Underclass in America By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead April 21, 2022 Share “We are now speeding down the road of wasteful spending and debt, and unless we can escape we will be smashed in inflation.”— Herbert Hoover This is financial tyranny. The U.S. government — and that includes the current administration — is spending money it doesn’t have on programs it can’t afford, and “we the taxpayers” are the ones who must foot the bill for the government’s fiscal insanity. We’ve been sold a bill of goods by politicians promising to pay down the national debt, jumpstart the economy, rebuild our infrastructure, secure our borders, ensure our security, and make us all healthy, wealthy and happy. None of that has come to pass, and yet we’re still being loaded down with debt not of our own making. Let’s talk numbers, shall we? The national debt (the amount the federal government has borrowed over the years and must pay back) is $30 trillion and growing. That translates to roughly $242,000 per taxpayer. Now the Biden administration is proposing a $5.8 trillion spending budget that notably includes $813 billion for national defense, $30 billion to “fund the police,” and a plan to reduce the national deficit by roughly $1 trillion over 10 years through additional tax hikes. It’s estimated that the amount this country owes is now 130% greater than its gross domestic product (all the products and services produced in one year by labor and property supplied by the citizens). The U.S. ranks as the 12th most indebted nation in the world, with much of that debt owed to the Federal Reserve, large investment funds and foreign governments, namely, Japan and China. Essentially, the U.S. government is funding its very existence with a credit card. In 2021, we paid more than $562 billion in interest on that public debt, which according to journalist Rob Garver, “is more than the annual budget of every individual federal agency except for the Treasury, the Department of Health and Human Services (which manages the Medicare and Medicaid government health insurance programs), and the Department of Defense.” According to the Committee for a Reasonable Federal Budget, the interest we’ve paid on this borrowed money is “nearly twice what the federal government will spend on transportation infrastructure, over four times as much as it will spend on K-12 education, almost four times what it will spend on housing, and over eight times what it will spend on science, space, and technology.” Clearly, the national debt isn’t going away anytime soon, especially not with government spending on the rise and interest payments making up such a large chunk of the budget. Still, the government remains unrepentant, unfazed and undeterred in its wanton spending. Indeed, the national deficit (the difference between what the government spends and the revenue it takes in) remains at more than $1.5 trillion. If Americans managed their personal finances the way the government mismanages the nation’s finances, we’d all be in debtors’ prison by now. Despite the government propaganda being peddled by the politicians and news media, however, the government isn’t spending our tax dollars to make our lives better. We’re being robbed blind so the governmental elite can get richer. We’re not living the American dream. We’re living a financial nightmare. In the eyes of the government, “we the people, the voters, the consumers, and the taxpayers” are little more than pocketbooks waiting to be picked. “We the people” have become the new, permanent underclass in America. Consider: The government can seize your home and your car (which you’ve bought and paid for) over nonpayment of taxes. Government agents can freeze and seize your bank accounts and other valuables if they merely “suspect” wrongdoing. And the IRS insists on getting the first cut of your salary to pay for government programs over which you have no say. We have no real say in how the government runs, or how our taxpayer funds are used, but we’re being forced to pay through the nose, anyhow. We have no real say, but that doesn’t prevent the government from fleecing us at every turn and forcing us to pay for endless wars that do more to fund the military industrial complex than protect us, pork barrel projects that produce little to nothing, and a police state that serves only to imprison us within its walls. If you have no choice, no voice, and no real options when it comes to the government’s claims on your property and your money, you’re not free. It wasn’t always this way, of course. Early Americans went to war over the inalienable rights described by philosopher John Locke as the natural rights of life, liberty and property. It didn’t take long, however — a hundred years, in fact — before the American government was laying claim to the citizenry’s property by levying taxes to pay for the Civil War. As the New York Times reports, “Widespread resistance led to its repeal in 1872.” Determined to claim some of the citizenry’s wealth for its own uses, the government reinstituted the income tax in 1894. Charles Pollock challenged the tax as unconstitutional, and the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in his favor. Pollock’s victory was relatively short-lived. Members of Congress—united in their determination to tax the American people’s income — worked together to adopt a constitutional amendment to overrule the Pollock decision. On the eve of World War I, in 1913, Congress instituted a permanent income tax by way of the 16th Amendment to the Constitution and the Revenue Act of 1913. Under the Revenue Act, individuals with income exceeding $3,000 could be taxed starting at 1% up to 7% for incomes exceeding $500,000. It’s all gone downhill from there. Unsurprisingly, the government has used its tax powers to advance its own imperialistic agendas and the courts have repeatedly upheld the government’s power to penalize or jail those who refused to pay their taxes. While we’re struggling to get by, and making tough decisions about how to spend what little money actually makes it into our pockets after the federal, state and local governments take their share (this doesn’t include the stealth taxes imposed through tolls, fines and other fiscal penalties), the government continues to do whatever it likes — levy taxes, rack up debt, spend outrageously and irresponsibly — with little thought for the plight of its citizens. To top it all off, all of those wars the U.S. is so eager to fight abroad are being waged with borrowed funds. As The Atlantic reports, “U.S. leaders are essentially bankrolling the wars with debt, in the form of purchases of U.S. Treasury bonds by U.S.-based entities like pension funds and state and local governments, and by countries like China and Japan.” Of course, we’re the ones who will have to repay that borrowed debt. For instance, American taxpayers have been forced to shell out more than $5.6 trillion since 9/11 for the military industrial complex’s costly, endless so-called “war on terrorism.” That translates to roughly $23,000 per taxpayer to wage wars abroad, occupy foreign countries, provide financial aid to foreign allies, and fill the pockets of defense contractors and grease the hands of corrupt foreign dignitaries. Mind you, that staggering $6 trillion is only a portion of what the Pentagon spends on America’s military empire. The United States also spends more on foreign aid than any other nation, with nearly $300 billion disbursed over a five year period. More than 150 countries around the world receive U.S. taxpayer - funded assistance, with most of the funds going to the Middle East, Africa and Asia. That price tag keeps growing, too. As Forbes reports, “U.S. foreign aid dwarfs the federal funds spent by 48 out of 50 state governments annually. Only the state governments of California and New York spent more federal funds than what the U.S. sent abroad each year to foreign countries.” Most recently, in response to Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine, the Biden Administration approved $13.6 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine, with an additional $200 million for immediate military assistance. As Dwight D. Eisenhower warned in a 1953 speech, this is how the military industrial complex will continue to get richer, while the American taxpayer will be forced to pay for programs that do little to enhance our lives, ensure our happiness and well-being, or secure our freedoms. This is no way of life. Yet it’s not just the government’s endless wars that are bleeding us dry. We’re also being forced to shell out money for surveillance systems to track our movements, money to further militarize our already militarized police, money to allow the government to raid our homes and bank accounts, money to fund schools where our kids learn nothing about freedom and everything about how to comply, and on and on. It’s tempting to say that there’s little we can do about it, except that’s not quite accurate. There are a few things we can do (demand transparency, reject cronyism and graft, insist on fair pricing and honest accounting methods, call a halt to incentive-driven government programs that prioritize profits over people), but it will require that “we the people” stop playing politics and stand united against the politicians and corporate interests who have turned our government and economy into a pay-to-play exercise in fascism. Unfortunately, we’ve become so invested in identity politics that pit us against one another and keep us powerless and divided that we’ve lost sight of the one label that unites us: we’re all Americans. Trust me, we’re all in the same boat, folks, and there’s only one real life preserver: that’s the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. The Constitution starts with those three powerful words: “We the people.” There is power in our numbers. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, that remains our greatest strength in the face of a governmental elite that continues to ride roughshod over the populace. It remains our greatest defense against a government that has claimed for itself unlimited power over the purse (taxpayer funds) and the sword (military might). Where we lose out is when we fall for the big - talking politicians who spend big at our expen < Previous News Next News >

75 Years In The Promised Land: At The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center August 17, 2023 Share WIZO, The Women’s International Zionist Organization, is proud to present a show honoring the 75th Birthday of Israel. Musical Director and Producer Tomer Adaddi has assembled a cast from around the world, celebrating our promised land. Through musical artistry, this international cast bestows heartfelt birthday wishes for peace and prosperity upon the young nation. Lovely Tom Cohen and Lital Gabai join Adam Lahav and Nir Sheaber for an evening that will immerse you in a profound experience built on the sights and sounds of Israel and the far reaches of the Diaspora. Tomer Adaddi Multi-Award Winning Composer, Pianist and Musical Producer, who has worked and collaborated with international stars such as Andrea Bocelli, Mercedes Sossa, Il Volo The Tenors, Michael Buble and many others. Born in Israel 1983. Composer, Pianist, Arranger and Musical Producer. Winner of the 2013 ACUM Award for Composer (Israeli ASCAP/BMI). Finished his Masters in composition at Mannes College of Music in New York City receiving the Felix Saltzer Techniques of Music Award 2011. Graduated from the Jerusalem Academy of Music in 2009. In 2010 composed and arranged the song "Milim" (Words) for Harel Skaat, representing Israel in the famous Eurovision Song Contest, winning 3 Marcel Bezençon Awards. In 2008 he musically produced and arranged the 10th Anniversary of the Peres Peace Center honoring Israel's President Shimon Peres, working with international artists such as Andrea Bocceli, Mercedes Sossa, Eliott Yamin, Dave Koz and others. The WIZO Mission Established in Great Britain in 1920, the Women’s International Zionist Organization (WIZO) is a Non-Profit Organization of members in over 50 countries working together to improve the lives of women, children and the elderly living in Israel. Next, to the Israeli government, WIZO is the largest provider of Social Welfare services in the country. WIZO USA was established in 1982 with a goal to foster Jewish identity through young leadership development and a variety of educational and social programs. WIZO USA is accredited as a Non-Profit Organization throughout the United States. The Women’s International Zionist Organization is a Non-Party/Apolitical International Movement recognized by the United Nations as a Non-Governmental Organization with consultative status on key international organizations such as ECOSOC and UNICEF, is dedicated to the advancement of the status of Women, Welfare for all sectors of Israeli Society, and encouragement of Jewish Education in Israel and in the Diaspora. WIZO Florida strengthens the bond between Israel and American Jewry by promoting Jewish identity and education. WIZO is vital in supporting and preserving a successful Jewish State. Get involved with WIZO Florida, visit: www.wizofl.org Or call: (305) 861-8860. Israel Celebrates 75 Years of Independence Israel Independence Day is celebrated annually on the anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel, according to the Hebrew calendar, on the 5th day of the month of Iyar. The day preceding this celebration is devoted to the memory of those who gave their lives for the achievement of the country's independence and its continued existence. This proximity is intended to remind people of the heavy price paid for independence. On this day, the entire nation remembers its debt and expresses eternal gratitude to its sons and daughters who gave their lives for the achievement of the country's independence and its continued existence. On May 14, 1948, the day the British Mandate expired, the new Jewish state - the State of Israel - was formally established in parts of what was known as the British Mandate for Palestine. With the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, Jewish Independence was restored after 2,000 years. Independence Day is a celebration of the renewal of the Jewish state in the Land of Israel, the birthplace of the Jewish people. In this land, the Jewish people began to develop its distinctive religion and culture some 4,000 years ago, and here it has preserved an unbroken physical presence, for centuries as a sovereign state, at other times under foreign domination. Throughout their long history, the yearning to return to the land has been the focus of Jewish life. Theodor Herzl, the Leader and Founder of the Zionist movement, increased international recognition for the need of a Jewish state. Since its establishment, Israel continues to be a homeland to the thousands who make their way to Israel annually. It is home to some of the holiest religious sites of the three major religions, all which enjoy the democratic rights delineated in the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel. Population of Israel The Central Bureau of Statistics announced that on the eve of Israel's 75th Anniversary, the population of Israel was estimated at 9.757 million - almost twelve times the population at the establishment of the state in 1948 (806,000). Jews today constitute 73.5% of the population, Arabs 21.0% and Others 5.5%. Today, about 75% of the Jewish population is comprised of native-born Israelis, and more than half are at least second-generation Israelis. Since the establishment of the state, over 3.3 million immigrants have arrived in Israel. As a result, the allocation of Jews in Israel as a percentage of total Jewish population in the world grew from 6% on the country’s first anniversary to 44% on the eve of the 75th. In 1948, only Tel Aviv-Jaffa had more than 100,000 residents. Today there are 14 cities in Israel with a population of over 100,000, and 6 others with over 200,000 residents: Jerusalem, Tel Aviv-Jaffa, Haifa, Rishon Lezion, Ashdod and Petah Tikva. Tickets If you would like to celebrate this milestone and experience, "75 Years In The Promised Land" presented by WIZO, you can purchase tickets online via Ticketmaster. The spectacular event will be held Thursday, September 7th, 2023, at The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center at 8:00 p.m. Tickets start at $90.00 and will sell out fast. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. You can purchase tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 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. Parking FREE parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

The Holidays In Hollywood: Winter Wonderville at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort & Shopping Tips December 15, 2022 Share Bring the family out to enjoy beachside skating, live entertainment, music from EASY 93.1 & HITS 97.3, holiday activities, festive refreshments, and more at the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort - Winter Wonderville. Winter Wonderville is open to the public! Skating, refreshments, and select services are available for purchase, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting charity. Visit the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort website for event hours and more information: https://www.margaritavillehollywoodbeachresort.com/winter-wonderville. The event will take place December 17 – 18 at the Johnson Street Hollywood Bandshell. Holiday Shopping Safety Tips from the Hollywood Police Department The holidays are a joyous time to spend with loved ones and many of us enjoy exchanging gifts and donating to charitable causes. While we continue to navigate the pandemic, many people have chosen to stay home and shop online, however with shipping deadlines creeping up, many people are hitting the stores to finish up their holiday shopping. Unfortunately, crowded stores aren’t all that shoppers have to be aware of. There are a high volume of thieves and scam artists who want to take advantage of the holiday spirit of giving. Here are some tips from the Hollywood Police Department to help you ensure your purchases and donations don't end up costing you more than you expected: Shopping in Stores • Do not buy more than you can carry. Plan ahead by taking someone with you or ask a store employee to help you carry your packages to the car. • Consider alternate options to pay for your merchandise, such as one-time or multi-use disposable credit cards or money orders. • Wait until asked before taking out your credit card or checkbook. An enterprising thief would love to shoulder surf to get your account information. • Tell a security guard or store employee if you see an unattended bag or package. The same applies if you are using mass transit or walking to and from your car. • Deter pick-pockets. Carry your purse close to your body or your wallet inside a coat or front trouser pocket. • Carry only the credit cards you need and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. • When shopping with small children, keep them close to you and make a plan in case you are separated from each other. Select a central meeting place and teach them how to identify mall personnel or security if they need help. • Teach children to never leave the store until you find one another. • When parking your vehicle to go shopping, remember where you parked it! Always park in a well-lit and well-traveled area. Do not park in a remote dark area. • Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. You will be ready to unlock the door and will not be delayed by fumbling and looking for your keys. • When you return to your vehicle, scan the interior of your car to be sure no one is hiding inside. Check to see if you are being followed. • Do not leave packages visible in your car windows. When storing items purchased at the stores, place them out of sight. The best place is in a locked trunk or if possible, take them directly home. • Do not leave any valuables (i.e. your purse, wallet, or cellular telephone) in plain view in your vehicle. • Lock your vehicle and put up your windows, even while you are driving. • If you go to an automatic teller machine for cash, check for people around you and make sure it is well lit and in a safe location. • Drive defensively. Traffic is heavier during the holidays. Drivers may also have indulged in too much holiday spirits. Shopping Online • When shopping online, it’s wise to pay with a credit card instead of a debit card if possible. Both allow you to dispute a charge if the merchandise never arrives or is different from what was ordered. However, with a debit card, the price will have already been deducted from your bank account and it will take time to get your money back. • When ordering online, look to ensure that your browser is a secure connection. In the address bar, a padlock should appear if your browsing session is secure. • Some credit card providers offer one-time card numbers to be used for online transactions to further protect your financial information. Contact your financial institution to see if they offer such a service. • Keep your personal information safe. Never provide your credit card, bank account information or social security number to a stranger. No reputable vendor or service provider will ever initiate a call and ask you for this information over the phone. • Save all receipts. Print and save all confirmations from your online purchases. Start a file folder to keep all receipts together and to help you verify credit card or bank statements as they come in. • Beware of the "good deal" scams. Things are not always what they appear to be. Holiday Charity Scams • Be sure the charity is legitimate. Check to see if they are a registered charity with the State Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at https://www.fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Charities or by calling 1.800.HELP.FLA. While there, be sure you check to understand how much of the donation will actually go toward the work of the charity as opposed to administrative expenses. • Contact the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance at http://give.org or by calling 703.247.9321 to determine if the charity you are donating to has any complaints against them. • Watch for similar sounding charities. It’s not unusual for scam artists to choose names that sound like the names of legitimate, widely known charities. • Never give your credit card number or bank account information to a caller on the phone or someone who sent you an unsolicited email. If you are interested in donating to a charity that has initiated contact with you, ask them to send you a pledge form and information about the charity in the mail. Legitimate charities should have no problem with this request. • Most tax-exempt organizations are also required to file an annual return or notice with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The IRS Code requires automatic revocation of a charity’s tax-exempt status (some charities are exempt from this requirement) if it fails to file a return for three consecutive years. Publication of an organization’s name on the Auto Revocation list on the IRS website helps potential donors determine the status of a charity. To learn more about the tax-exempt status of a charity, go to www.irs.gov and search the Charities and Non-Profits topics. Being mindful of these important tips to safeguard your identity, avoid scams and shop safely can help ensure you have a happy, healthy and safe holiday season. For more safety tips and information from the Hollywood Police Department, visit www.hollywoodpolice.org < Previous News Next News >

68th Annual Candy Cane Parade On Hollywood Beach Thu Dec 05 2024 17:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

ArtServe’s Exhibit "Burnout And Black Artists: Emotional Sustainability In The Arts" Explores The Complex Emotional Landscape Of Black Artists Thu Feb 13 2025 18:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

New And Limited-Time Experiences At The Museum Of Discovery And Science - Highlights Include A New Hockey Exhibition, Immersive HoloTheater Attractions, Power Play Weekends And An IMAX Documentary Opening South Florida Sun Times Feb 11, 2026 The Museum Of Discovery And Science (MODS) Invites Families To Explore The Science Behind Hockey While Enjoying A Full Month Of Hands-On Experiences Across The Museum. From Interactive Exhibits And Hockey-Inspired Activities To Community Programs And Sensory-Friendly Experiences, MODS Offers Opportunities For Guests Of All Ages To Learn, Play And Discover Together. “February reflects how MODS brings science to life through curiosity, exploration and play,” said Joseph P. Cox, President and CEO of MODS. “From the launch of our new hockey exhibition to immersive attractions, weekend programs and inclusive community events, families can engage with science in meaningful ways throughout the month.” Traveling Exhibit Spotlight: Hockey: Faster Than Ever Now Open – Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 Hockey: Faster Than Ever invites guests to explore the science behind hockey through interactive challenges focused on reaction time, strength and technology. Guests can discover how physics, engineering and innovation shape the sport, from equipment design to player performance. Presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, with additional support from Finally, the Florida Panthers Foundation, Florida Prepaid College Savings Plans and the Shannon and Johnathan Robertson Charitable Fund. Included with Museum admission. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/hockey . HoloTheater: A Cinematic Experience Like No Other Now Open Step into MODS’ new HoloTheater, the first custom-built holographic theater of its kind. This groundbreaking attraction combines science and imagination through cutting-edge holographic projection, laser imaging and spatial audio to bring prehistoric worlds to life without the need for 3D glasses. Guests can journey through the age of dinosaurs and experience immersive visuals that redefine what a museum adventure can be. Guests may upgrade to the Discovery Pass Plus, which includes Museum exhibitions, one IMAX® documentary and one HoloTheater experience. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/holotheater . Power Play Weekends Weekends in February • Saturdays 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Sundays 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Families can explore the science of movement and performance during Power Play Weekends at MODS. Hockey-inspired activities throughout the Museum invite guests to test reaction time, coordination and problem-solving skills while learning how science and engineering support athletic performance. Included with Museum admission. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/powerplay . Food Forest Tours February 7th, 2026 – February 8th, 2026 • Saturdays 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. | Sundays 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Explore MODS’ thriving Food Forest during guided tours that highlight how fruits, herbs and tropical plants grow together in a sustainable ecosystem. Tours include a question-and-answer session focused on eco-friendly gardening practices. Included with Museum admission. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/foodforesttours . Keep Our Beaches Clean: Beach Cleanup Saturday, February 7th, 2026 • 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Join MODS for a community beach cleanup focused on protecting South Florida’s coastline. Volunteers receive free Museum admission following the cleanup. Advance registration is required. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/beachcleanup . Baby’s First: Valentine’s Day Saturday, February 14th, 2026 • During Museum hours Celebrate Valentine’s Day with MODS’ Baby’s First, a special experience designed for infants and caregivers featuring themed stories, hands-on STEAM activities and a festive photo opportunity. Included with Museum admission. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/babysfirst . Carnival Construction Scout Overnight Saturday, February 21st, 2026 – Sunday, February 22nd, 2026 • 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 a.m. Scouting America and Girl Scouts troops are invited to spend the night at MODS while designing and building carnival-style games through hands-on engineering challenges. Cost is $60 per participant with a minimum of 50 participants. For more information and to register, please visit: https://mods.org/scout-programs . Sensory-Friendly Sunday Morning February 22nd, 2026 • 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Enjoy early access to MODS during a sensory-friendly morning with adjusted lighting, reduced sound and hands-on activities, followed by a modified IMAX® documentary in a welcoming, judgment-free environment. Free admission. To register, please visit: https://mods.org/sensorysunday . Lost Wolves of Yellowstone Opens Friday, February 13th, 2026 Lost Wolves of Yellowstone opens at the AutoNation® IMAX® 3D Theater and invites audiences on a wild return to Yellowstone’s most legendary residents. The film offers an exciting look at wildlife conservation and ecosystem balance as it follows the dramatic reintroduction of wolves after a 50-year absence and shows how one bold experiment helped nature hit the reset button. Included with Museum admission. About the Museum of Discovery and Science Opened in 1977 as the Discovery Center, today the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) is at the forefront of science education, innovation and exploration. MODS connects people to inspiring science, providing STEM education and cultural experiences for 450,000+ visitors annually in the 150,000 sq. ft. facility. MODS is a 501 (c)(3) Non-Profit Organization that has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) for three decades. MODS has added to that distinction by being named Broward’s Hub for Resilience Education by the Board of the Community Foundation of Broward, selected by the LEGO Foundation as one of only 21 museums nationwide to join the Playful Learning Museum Network and awarded the prestigious 2023 IMLS National Medal for Museum Service. The Museum welcomes visitors from all walks of life. The Museum hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. MODS is located downtown at 401 Southwest Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information about the Museum, please visit: https://mods.org . Or call: (954) 467-MODS. (954) 467-6637. Like us or follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/modsftl X (formerly Twitter): www.x.com/modsftl Instagram: www.instagram.com/modsftl Previous Next