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Planting Seeds Of The Divine - Torah Commentaries To Cultivate Your Spiritual Practice By https://jps.org Sep 18, 2025 Experiencing Deep Personal Fulfillment, Happiness, And Sustenance Comes From Feeling Connected To Our Authentic Selves, Which Involves Building An Ongoing Relationship With The Divine Presence Within Us, Says Author Yiscah Smith. Quite Organically, Then, We May Begin Sensing The Divine In Our Interactions With Other People. This Is Because, For Each Of Us, “Our Essence, As A Creation By God, Is God.” Planting Seeds of the Divine elucidates how Judaism’s sacred texts can provide the foundation for the “end destination” of experiencing intimate encounters with the Divine Presence within—the God-consciousness that so many of us find elusive. Imagining ourselves as spiritual gardeners, we can cultivate our unique gardens with seeds centered on middot (emotional dispositions, character traits, spiritual sensitivities). Each seed corresponds to an aspirational Torah commentary, consisting of a selected Torah verse linked to one of the middot, a summary of the biblical text preceding the verse, classical commentaries, teachings of Hasidic and Neo-Hasidic masters and the author, and step-by-step experiential practices to help us internalize the middot and encounter the Divine. Each seed contributes to the garden’s beauty—the beauty of the self in God-consciousness—which hopefully blossoms into a magnificent garden of the soul. Praise “Yiscah Smith has done a remarkable job of painting a wonderfully textured method of reading the Torah as a guide for spiritual development.”—Ariel Evan Mayse, Assistant Professor of religious studies at Stanford University and Co-Editor of A New Hasidism: Roots and A New Hasidism: Branches “An important contribution to this emerging school of Torah commentary that is smart and intellectually sophisticated while also embodied and psychologically and spiritually informed.”—Rabbi Josh Feigelson, President and CEO of the Institute for Jewish Spirituality “By offering readers a practical and powerful pathway to cultivate the Divine spark within, Smith creates a rich legacy of her own.”–Diane Gottlieb, editor of Awakenings: Stories of Body & Consciousness, for the Jewish Book Council Save 50% on orders of 10 or more copies of this title with code 6SEEDS50, visit: https://jps.org/books/planting-seeds-of-the-divine/ About The Author Yiscah Smith is a thought leader and spiritual activist committed to empowering and ennobling others in the spiritual practice of encountering the Divine spark within and beyond. She teaches Jewish contemplative practice and spiritual texts at the Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem and for the online platform Applied Jewish Spirituality. She is the author of Forty Years in the Wilderness: My Journey to Authentic Living and founder of Conscious Community Nachlaot, an alternative prayer space in Jerusalem. Her Authentic Jewish Living with Yiscah podcast episodes are available on platforms such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Visit Yiscah Smith's website at: https://www.yiscahsmith.com/ Author Yiscah Smith Previous Next

The Amazing Sports Immortals Museum By Neil Keller Jun 4, 2025 Welcome To Keller’s Korner. Today We Are Going To Tell You About The Sports Immortals Museum Located In Boca Raton, Founded By Joel Platt. This Museum Has Become One Of The Top Attractions In South Florida For The Last 30 Years For People Who Love Sports. World renowned collector Joel Platt founded the Sports Immortals museum in 1995. Joel is a member of the Western Pennsylvania Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and a recent nominee for the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in Israel. I have known for years about Joel and his amazing collection of over one million mementos from the world’s greatest athletes. When I moved to South Florida four years ago, I visited Sports Immortals a few times and I love talking to Joel and his son Jim. It is a fascinating place which features rotating displays that will leave you wanting to come back. There is also a retail store offering a selection of over 20,000 unique and rare sports items to purchase. His most priceless items are kept in out-of-State security vaults. Going to the Sports Immortals Museum will be an experience people will treasure forever. Joel’s inspirational story began in 1943 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at the young age of four years old when he was injured in a gasoline explosion at his uncle’s car dealership. Joel was hospitalized and bedridden for over a year and his parents would bring him baseball cards to entertain him during his recovery period. His favorite cards were Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. One night in the hospital Joel had a dream that Babe Ruth visited him and said, “Kid don’t give up, you can get better and one day be a major league baseball player or build a hall of fame to honor sports heroes.” Once Joel recovered, he set his life on those two goals. He became an outstanding shortstop at the University of Duquesne but injured his arm prior to signing with the Boston Red Sox. With his major league dream ending Joel concentrated on his other goal to curate the mementos from sports legends and build an attraction that would honor and enshrine the world’s greatest athletes. To accomplish this goal, Joel has traveled over one million miles over a 75 year period to curate over one million mementos. Joel’s collection has been recognized by the Smithsonian Institution as “the largest collection on all sports in the world.” Just a few items to mention include the famous T206 Honus Wagner baseball card, a game used autographed bat from Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig’s first baseman glove, and all of Jim Thorpe’s mementos including his trophies, traditional Native American clothing, and Carlisle Indians football uniform. Of the many famous athletes Joel has met, he said his favorite was Muhummad Ali. He met him six times and explained, “Each meeting was a monumental experience. Ali treated everyone like they were the champion, and he was the fan.” Joel added, “Ali gave me so many items that I could open a Muhummad Ali museum. Joel added that his favorite Jewish athlete was former Hall of Fame Quarterback Sid Luckman. Joel said, “Sid was a great player and a wonderful person.” Luckman’s mother attended her first game in 1943 when the Chicago Bears played the New York Giants. Inspired by her presence Sid set a record by throwing 7 touchdown passes and dedicated the game ball to his mother. This football was Sid’s most prized possession and when he passed away he left the ball to his good friend Joel Platt for the Sports Immortals Museum. While amassing such a collection took decades, Joel said his greatest acquisition came in 1970 when he obtained all of Jim Thorpe’s mementos from his wife Patricia. The items included Jim’s Carlisle Indians jersey, trophies, medals, helmets and his 1912 Olympic album containing an original letter from President William Taft congratulating Jim on his gold medal victories in the Decathlon and Pentathlon events at the 1912 Olympic Games in Stockholm, Sweden. Jim Thorpe is recognized as the greatest all around athlete of all time. In addition to being an Olympic champion, he is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and played major league baseball. Joel and his son Jim’s ultimate goal is to establish the Sports Immortals International Hall of Fame Complex that will utilize his famous collection in conjunction with today’s latest. Immersive experiential technology to bring the world’s greatest athletes to life to tell their stories and inspire visitors of all ages to achieve success and realize their dreams. Joel said “he wants to make enshrinement of Sports Immortals the greatest honor achievable in sports.” I asked Joel, is there anything you do not have? He replied, “We are always looking to acquire rare historical sports items and collections.” For more information on Sports Immortals, call: (561) 997-2575. Or visit their website at: www.sportsimmortals.com. The museum is located at 6830 North Federal Highway, Boca Raton, Florida 33487. You cannot miss it as there is a 12 foot statue of Babe Ruth in front. Neil Keller is a Jewish historian. Visit his website at: www.NeilKeller.com to learn who is Jewish. Previous Next

Tips for Fostering Dogs March 2, 2023 Share More animals are staying in shelters now than before the pandemic, according to a report from Shelter Animals Count, and just over half (53%) of dogs in shelters are adopted. However, the report also found that fostering dogs is a proven way to help pets find new homes. For those looking to support rescue dogs in need, the PEDIGREE® brand and its FOSTERVERSE™ program offer tips for a positive fostering experience and show how you can help end pet homelessness. To learn more and get involved, visit Pedigree.com/Fosterverse. Learn the Dog’s Background Every dog has a unique personality and set of needs, which is why it’s important to learn as much as you can before fostering a dog. Try to gather detailed information from the rescue organization or animal shelter before bringing the dog home, including age, breed, health conditions, dietary needs, energy level and even likes and dislikes. Learning about your foster dog’s background ahead of time can help you prepare and ensure a smooth transition to your home. Prepare Your Household Spend time making your home as dog-friendly and safe as possible by keeping electronics, cleaning supplies, sharp objects and other potentially dangerous items out of the way. This may mean taking a look at items in your home from the dog’s eye level to see what might be within reach. If you will be introducing a foster dog to other pets in your household, try to provide ample space to allow for slow introductions. Also consider looking for ways to designate spaces and belongings (like beds) between your pets so they can have comfortable places to retreat and rest. Train for Eventual Adoption Once your foster dog has adjusted to the new environment, consider gradually implementing routines. These routines may include activities like obedience training, physical exercise, house training and crate training. Teaching your foster pup good habits in preparation for adoption can increase the likelihood of finding a forever home. Market Your Foster Dog Spread the word in your community in person and on social media that you are fostering and helping find a forever home for your four-legged friend. A survey from AdoptAPet.com revealed the simple act of sharing information on social media about adoptable pets at local shelters can save a pet’s life, with 8 out of 10 (84%) organizations reporting that sharing pet content online increases the likelihood of pets being adopted. Help get the word out and show your community members why they should consider adopting your foster pup. Try Virtual Fostering While many people might want to foster a pup, there are many factors that may not allow them to foster pets in real life. That’s why the PEDIGREE brand is bringing fostering opportunities to the Metaverse for anyone who owns a digital property in Decentraland, offering a new platform for dog adoption. Users may interact with dogs they meet in the FOSTERVERSE program and learn about their backgrounds and adoption status, as well as ways to support dogs in need across the country. Dog lovers can choose to adopt a dog they meet virtually through AdoptAPet.com or donate to PEDIGREE Foundation to help similar adoptable pets in need across the country. Looking To Adopt If you are looking to adopt a pet the Humane Society of Broward County is the place to visit. Here are a couple of possible family members for you to go see, you just might find the love of your life. Drogo (ID A662920) would love to go home with you! This three-year-old shepherd mix sadly was given up because his family is moving and could not take him along. He is crate trained and enjoys going for walks. Drogo is very friendly and may jump up out of excitement when you come to meet him. An active family with kids would be ideal. If you have another dog at home, a meet and greet would be great to see if they get along. His former family said he is playful with other dogs and curious about cats. Tough toys would be recommended for him. Can Cleopatra (ID A639300) be part of your family? This regal beauty is 6 years old and was abandoned at the shelter. The volunteers say she loves to be pet and enjoys treats. She is super sweet and gets along with other felines. Thanks to a cat lover, her adoption fee has been sponsored. To meet Drogo or any of the other pets at the Humane Society of Broward County, visit www.humanebroward.com to complete the pre-adoption application and then stop by. The adoption kennels open daily at 11:00 a.m. and the shelter is located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale – a block west of I95. If you have questions call 954-989-3977 ext. 6. The VCA Walk for the Animals is March 4! Hope to see you there. This is the shelter’s largest fundraiser and the Walk has a new location – Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park! < Previous News Next News >

We Must Remain Vigilant Hallandale Beach By Hallandale Beach, Mayor Joy Cooper October 10, 2024 Share Once again, we are under an emergency declaration this past weekend into today. I continued to respond to many residents and kept them up to date over the course of this storm. We were blessed once again not to have been in the eye of the storm, but we still feel Milton’s effects. Helene and Milton both left massive devastation. It continues to worry me that so many people are simply not heeding our warnings and messages to be prepared. Many newer residents have shared with me that they purchased their homes not knowing it was in a Flood Zone. Some knew but did not research the specific areas that are considered repetitive loss. The sellers and or realtors did not explain the history. In some instances, they bought homes that were repaired without Permits. In these cases, it is even harder dealing with rebuilding without having current plans to rebuild. This past year every property was put in the Flood Zone. This means they must have Flood Insurance. Even the Three Islands neighborhood is now in a Flood Zone even though they have never flooded. Commissioner Lazarow inquired about these changes at a recent meeting. She requested we see if Three Islands can be removed. We support the request. It will be interesting if it can be changed but I am thinking due to the Sea Level Rise and the Storm Surge possibilities it may not be removed. The point is we are a Flood Zone. There are only four miles between our western border of I-95 and the ocean. Unless, if you consider the Intracoastal Waterway. Many residents in the City believed that since we put in pumps on 14th and on the Shaffer Canal this will guarantee they will not Flood. Everyone after June realized we are in a new normal. I tell everyone we cannot engineer our City out of every Flood. I cannot stress enough that we will Flood depending on the amount and duration of rain events. This means every homeowner and condominium needs to properly prepare in the event of natural disasters including hurricanes and extreme rain events. June was the beginning of Hurricane Season, and we always promote being prepared. The state provides a Sales Tax Holiday for everyone so they can get a break on purchasing supplies, equipment and other items that will help residents prepare themselves and their homes in the event of a storm. I received multiple text messages and calls about sandbags. While I felt terrible knowing they were in fear of Flooding I thought it was a bit late to be securing a home. Our City has not distributed sandbags for years. I know many cities do supply sand, some supply bags and sand. This process is labor intensive if you want to do it right. It takes Staff, Volunteers, and Police to perform the distribution properly. We gave out two to four bags to residents with ID. The question becomes, does four bags even help secure your home? It may help but it is not the best form of protection and it pulls our Staff away from their duties preparing the City for the storms. Bags are often one and done. Many would dump the sand rather than saving it for the next storm expecting we do another distribution. It bothered me when we stopped this program, so I decided to do research on other applications to secure properties. Since climate change and extreme weather events are taking place everywhere many products have been developed to dry proof homes. One simple example is water barriers that are reusable and much easier to utilize. There are water dams for doors and garages. There are large waterproof sacks to store everything from clothes to entire rooms of furniture. Climate Change and Sea-Level Rise has exacerbated the intensity of the storms, and we will not always have days to prepare. Recently, we held Hurricane Preparedness Courses. One was geared for businesses and the other for residents. The instructor, Ms. Lynville from Optimum, presented an excellent curriculum. Many residents continue to ask about what the City is doing to address Flooding. We are doing our part and have plans for more Infrastructure. We have a robust preparedness plan and implement improvements. We can and will continue to do our part, but we cannot emphasize enough, property owners also play an integral part in prevention, preparation and recovery. I have requested the next session be held to share what products, programs and services are available through FEMA to help our owners. I was hoping to announce a date but between Helene and Milton it was pushed off. I am in communication with Optimum and believe we can host a meeting at the end of this month. I will have a firmer date after Wednesday. I do hope everyone weathered the storm. The mental scars are the ones that may take more time to be healed. I was impressed watching one of the news channels listening to one of the victims of Helene. She said it was not their first hurricane but was the worst so far. She said we are staying put and rebuilding. That is the price we pay to live in Florida. The goal must be for communities to build back stronger and smarter. After Andrew, the South Florida Building Codes were created. They are now statewide. Currently, homes are being built eighteen inches higher. Seawalls are being built higher. We need to evaluate planning with a goal towards stronger drainage requirements and retrofitting private properties as we face the new normal. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place by Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit me on my Facebook page at Mayor Joy Cooper. Like, follow, and share! < Previous News Next News >

Local Author Receives National Recognition Jewish Connection News Sep 18, 2025 The Annual Florida Authors And Publishers Association President’s Book Awards Recognized Healing Your Life One Leaf At A Time By Sara Shaw, In The Category Of Religion/Spirituality, As A Gold Medal Winner. Hosted by the Florida Authors and Publishers Association, this prestigious national award was open to books published between 2023 and 2025. The judges for this national competition are librarians, educators, and publishing professionals. The FAPA President’s Book Awards recognize book publishing excellence and creativity in design, content, and production for authors, illustrators, cover designers, and publishers. This contest isn’t limited to Florida; it is open to anyone worldwide, as long as the book is written in English. We encourage entries from all who share our complex and wonderful language. Healing Your Life One Leaf at a Time is a non-fiction book which shares personal interviews from people from all walks of life, some of their deepest and darkest days, and their hopes to survive. “I wish to congratulate all of our winners. Award programs such as ours are vital to the publishing industry because they serve to recognize excellence and creativity not just for authors, but for everyone involved. It also serves as a tremendous boost to the confidence of beginning authors who win. This year, we had the finest quality of books in recent memory. Earning a medal is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to each winner’s skill and talent,” said FAPA’s President, Ginger Marks. The Florida Authors and Publishers Association is an organization for authors, publishers, illustrators, editors, printers, and other professionals involved in the publishing industry. It focuses on providing the highest quality of information, resources, and professional development to members and others interested in the writing and publishing profession. Amazon Reviews 5 Stars - Another well written book by Sara Shaw "Life has many struggles but reading this book you know you are not alone. So many interesting stories of hardship and abuse but you realize you get through it and in the end you are a better person and with the help of God and friends you know you will be ok." 5 Stars - Life can be so hard but inside us all there is hope for better days ahead "Sara has a great sensitivity in her writing that captures life in a very real way. The stories about the people who endured such tremendous hardships brings to light the awareness that we truly never really know what crosses some people have to bear! Each story puts you inside the circle of very real people who have very difficult decisions to make. All of us can identify to some degree with the burden, shame, regret, and intense hurt that life changing choices can cause. Thank you to Sara for opening our eyes to the reality of what many people endure. You always show that by the grace of God, there is always hope for better days to come! Thank you, Sara and each of you who shared your stories, we are humbled to know how you did not give up!" 5 Stars - Inspirational "Sara Shaw’s Healing Your Life One Leaf at a Time offers an emotional and reflective journey through stories of personal tragedy and recovery. As a man reading this book, I found its universal message of healing and hope powerful, even though many of the stories are deeply personal and sometimes focus on issues like abuse, which might seem more directed toward female experiences. That being said, the insights and lessons are relatable to anyone dealing with life’s struggles, regardless of gender. The book is structured around a series of personal interviews with people who have faced significant hardships—addiction, trauma, and loss are recurring themes. Shaw presents these stories with care, providing not just the details of their darkest moments, but also how they found their way through and what they learned in the process. One of the strengths of the book is its wide range of perspectives, which makes it easy to connect with at least one story, no matter who you are. This inclusivity feels intentional, designed to ensure the book resonates with all readers." Amazon Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Your-Life-Leaf-Time/dp/B0D53QFRNS About Sara Shaw As a child, Sara Shaw dreamed of becoming a writer someday. Later in her life, after the death of her mother, she connected with her mother’s sister’s children, whom she had been separated from all of her life. This uncovered shocking family secrets. Their experiences inspired her to recount their stories to help them heal and offer hope for others to heal from similar dark situations. Her first book, Two Sisters and the Four Leaf Clover (Trilogy Publishing/2021), is a true story of a family’s tragedies, desperation, and strong will to survive. By telling their stories, others came forward, which led to Sara’s second book, Healing Your Life One Leaf at a Time (Trilogy Publishing/July 2024), a compelling compilation of personal interviews of people from all walks of life who shared some of their darkest days, how they survived. The importance of recognizing red flags, knowing where to turn for help, and knowing you are not alone. Sara is a member of the South Florida Writers Association, the Florida Author & Publishers Association, the Florida Writers Association, and the Ohio Writers Association. She works with various organizations and businesses, including non-profits, and sponsors events for ALS, Child & Domestic Abuse, Grief Groups, Prison Ministries, Foster Care, Drug & Alcohol Addictions, and Churches. In April 2025, she launched a Podcast called Chapter Chat With Sara, where she cracks the door open with guests to talk about real life and navigating the journey through life's challenges and difficult times. Her home is in Highland Beach, where she spends winters and heads back to her roots in Ohio for the summers, where she spends as much time as possible with her family and friends. She has six children and 11 grandchildren and has been married for 45 years. Find out more about her books and podcast at: www.SaraShaw.org Previous Next

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Jewish Community Services Of South Florida: Named A 2025 Healthcare Hero By The Greater Miami Chamber Of Commerce Jewish Connection News Jun 4, 2025 Presented Annually, The Healthcare Heroes Awards Honor Institutions, Professionals, And Organizations That Have Demonstrated Excellence, Innovation, And Impact In The Healthcare Field. JCS Was Selected As The Organization/Program Healthcare Heroes Awardee For Its Compassionate, Culturally Competent Care To Aging Adults, Holocaust Survivors, Individuals In Crisis And Vulnerable Families—Particularly Through Its Delivery Of Mental Health Services, Home-Based Senior Care And The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline In Miami-Dade And Monroe Counties. “This honor is a meaningful reflection of how our JCS team of professionals, lay leaders and volunteers together with our funders and corporate, non-profit and government partners are bringing our mission to life. JCS has served as the safety-net for our beloved community for 105 years, that is 105 in the 305!” said Miriam Singer, President & CEO of Jewish Community Services of South Florida. “As a trusted lifeline for frail and vulnerable individuals and families in need, we are privileged to continue to be a trusted partner in service to improve the quality of life and self-sufficiency of ALL in our community based on Jewish values of dignity, respect and high-quality care. We are deeply grateful to the professionals and business leadership of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce for recognizing our team’s unwavering commitment to delivering client care with dignity, compassion and equity—especially to our most frail and vulnerable residents.” A fixture in the community for 105 years, JCS supports over 25,000 individuals annually through a broad array of programs addressing Mental Health, food insecurity, elder care, domestic violence, youth support and more. Its recognition as a Healthcare Hero underscores the critical role nonprofits play in strengthening the safety net for underserved populations. “JCS is committed to supporting individuals facing the greatest challenges in our community,” said Vanessa Ressler, Chair of the JCS Board. “This award is a reflection of the passion and dedication of our incredible staff, donors, volunteers and partners who make our work possible every day.” Since 1920, Jewish Community Services of South Florida has remained true to its original mission of providing exemplary social services through compassionate and comprehensive programs that help people stay healthy and productive. By partnering with their funding agencies, sister organizations and local leaders, JCS continuously strengthens and solidifies its outreach and its impact. In this way, JCS continues to be a beacon of help, healing and hope as it addresses current needs with these three divisions: Children & Youth Services JCS specializes in compassionate services that address the unique needs of children, adolescents and young adults. From Mental Health counseling and addiction treatment to violence prevention and mentoring initiatives, JCS has programs to assist youth in any situation or circumstance. In keeping with our efforts to deliver help in neighborhood settings, many programs are offered at JCS offices, area schools, synagogues and community centers. Adult & Family Services JCS’ network of services assists adults and families of all incomes in ways that strengthen individuals, marriages, relationships and family units, contributing to a healthier community. Those searching for Mental Health counseling, job assistance, support for survivors of domestic abuse and a variety of other services can count on JCS’ professional staff for effective treatment and guidance. JCS is here to help in times of stress, strife and adversity with a range of quality programs. Senior Support Services Those over 60 are urged to take advantage of JCS’ in-depth experience and expertise. Our number one priority is keeping seniors active, healthy and living in their own homes — for as long as it is safe and appropriate. From locations throughout Miami-Dade County, JCS helps clients maintain their dignity and independence with diverse initiatives that include home care, personal emergency response systems, home-delivered meals, care management, adult day care and transportation services. When you support JCS, you support people’s well-being. You can make a generous contribution today at: https://jcsfl.org/donate/ Previous Next

Jack & Jill Center: Strengthening Children And Families Through Innovative Education August 8, 2024 Share Jack & Jill Center – the longest-running NonProfit provider of Early Childhood Education in Broward County – is currently enrolling for the 2024 - 2025 School Year for its State-Of-The-Art Madelaine Halmos Academy (MHA) private elementary school campus. NAEYC-Accredited Early Education is also available on campus, serving six weeks of age through VPK-4. Classes start on Monday, August 12th, 2024. MHA is an expansion of Jack & Jill Center’s Early Education Center and debuted its new elementary school in June 2021. MHA provides a safe, academically sound and socially supportive environment for all learners. With its new building, MHA significantly extended its offerings by providing a school in the process of accreditation incorporating research-based best practices. MHA’s unique features include STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Curriculum; dedicated, highly-skilled staff and educators with low student-to-teacher ratios; engaging extracurricular activities fostering healthy social-emotional growth and personal development; integrated classroom technology including smart boards and individual devices for each student; individualized instructional approaches; interactive, educational field trips; extended day programming (before- and after-school care and camps); daily healthy breakfast, lunch and snacks; family wraparound support programs; health services; on-site counseling and therapeutic services including two on-campus therapy assisted dogs; and summer camp experiences. Additionally, each child who graduates from fifth grade and continues their education to graduate from high school will receive a college scholarship, established through the Florida Prepaid College Plan, from the Jack & Jill Center Opportunity Scholarship Fund. Through the Jack & Jill Center Opportunity Scholarship Fund, 98 students have been awarded college scholarships since 2022. The sponsorship is graciously funded by Steve and Madelaine Halmos through an endowment fund, the Steve and Madelaine Halmos Children’s Opportunity Fund, they established at the Community Foundation of Broward which supports scholarships for the children at Jack & Jill Center. “We are excited to welcome back our returning and new Jack & Jill Center families for the 2024 - 2025 School Year and invite prospective parents to enroll their children in our Madelaine Halmos Academy and Early Education Program,” said Amy Jewell, CEO of Jack & Jill Center. “We are dedicated to providing our students with the tools they need to be successful in school and life. In addition to providing an exceptional curriculum, we offer supportive programming and foster community engagement ensuring each child is on the path to success.” Since 1942, Jack & Jill Center has remained steadfast in its mission to strengthen children and families through innovative education, supportive programming and community engagement. In the past 80 years, Jack & Jill Center has served over 30,000 children and families in South Florida. Jack & Jill Center supports children of working families through quality Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education and family strengthening programs to ensure every child and family has the tools they need to be successful. MHA’s Kindergarten through fifth-grade program currently serves 175 total students from Broward County, including Early Education and Elementary School Education, who benefit from the Jack & Jill Education Program. MHA has the capability to serve 220 students in total. Jack & Jill Center’s children and families have unrestricted access to the school’s HEALTH Program, including an on-site School Nurse. Services provided through this program are an essential piece of Jack & Jill Center’s comprehensive and holistic approach to service. Through Comprehensive Health Assessments, Provision of Health Services, Preventative Healthcare and Community Partnerships, the HEALTH Program has a significant positive impact on the Health and Wellness of students, families and the community. Jack & Jill Center’s Comprehensive Family Program engages and supports families by providing intensive parent education, case management, referrals and a variety of other support services including, one-on-one financial coaching, therapeutic services, counseling, access to the Family Resource Room and computer lab, emergency assistance fund. Through this program, families gain the skills, knowledge and resources they need to increase self-sufficiency and foster their child's healthy growth and development. To learn more about MHA and enrollment opportunities, please visit: https://www.jackandjillcenter.org/about/ - Or contact: (954) 463-8772. Extension#: 218. Or via e-mail at: enrollment@jackandjillcenter.org The Jack & Jill Center Jack & Jill Center’s mission is to strengthen children and families through innovative education, supportive programming and community engagement. It achieves its mission by focusing on both the children and family units as a whole, so that the entire household, children and parents alike, are able to reach their full potential. Since 1942, Jack & Jill Center has served more than 30,000 children and families in South Florida. It currently serves as a NAEYC-Accredited Year-Round Early Learning Program for children aged six weeks through preschool, as well as an elementary school. The Madelaine Halmos Academy’s (MHA) State-Of-The-Art Elementary School building, an expansion of Jack & Jill Center’s Early Education Center, debuted in April 2021. Serving students from high-need working families in Kindergarten–fifth grade, the transformational project, is geared to prepare students for success in career and life. For more information about Jack & Jill visit: www.jackandjillcenter.org - Or: https://www.instagram.com/jackjillcenter/ - Or: https://www.facebook.com/jackjillcenter - Or: https://x.com/jackjillcenter. Or call: (954) 463-8772. < Previous News Next News >

Are You VEINY or VAINY? From Facial's to Vein Procedures Fox Vein & Laser Experts Has Got You Covered May 5, 2022 Share Fox Vein & Laser Experts is a one-stop-shop for Varicose Veins, Venous Disease, Injectables, Lasers, Tattoo Removal, Facials and more. With over 20 plus years and tens of thousands of successful Vein Procedures under her belt, Dr. Susan Fox is who you want to treat your Vein and Vascular Diseases in South Florida. Her office is also where you want to have all of your Cosmetic Procedures. Headquartered in Hollywood - a short ride away, Dr. Fox specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Venous Disease including: Varicose Veins, leg pain and swelling, Ulcer Care, Venous Insufficiency, Deep Vein Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism and Blood Clotting Disorders. Her team of highly skilled Vascular Experts perform studies in their own Vascular Lab where Dr. Fox is a Registered Physician Vascular Interpreter. They offer the newest and best minimally Invasive Procedures including: Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Venclose, Varithena, ClariVein® , Ambulatory Phlebectomies, Ultrasound-Guided Foam and Traditional Sclerotherapy. Trained at the Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Fox was the first physician in Cleveland to perform Endovenous Laser Ablation. Dr. Fox was also the first in Broward County to Perform the ClariVein® Procedure and one of the first doctors in the United States to offer this treatment option. Dr. Fox’s Practice has served as a Training Facility for Vein Procedures, Dr. Susan Fox has successfully taught physicians and medical personnel in the treatment of Venous Disease for decades. For years, Fox Vein and Laser Experts has been at the forefront of Vein Therapy and Laser Procedures. Dr. Fox expanded the practice around a decade ago to include many Non-Invasive Cutting-Edge Procedures such as: Microneedling, Tattoo Removal, Hydrafacials, PRP, Hair Restoration, Skin Rejuvenation, Peels, Lasers and so much more. Fox Vein & Laser Experts has been an industry leader through the years, with the best equipment and services offered. In recent times, the practice has expanded, now offering even more cutting-edge treatments. They are one of the first practices in the United States to offer Physiq and Virtue RF, two machines by Cartessa Aesthetics that provide FDA - Approved, safe and Non-Invasive treatments that require little to no down time, aimed to help you look your very best. In the past month, they have acquired Deep RF to microneedle the knees, arms, abdomen, stretch marks, jowls and more to tighten and rejuvenate the thicker and deeper areas as well as, Exact RF which has been added to treat pinpoint areas like around the eyes. This machine helps treat eye bags, festoons, fine lines and wrinkles. They are one of the first and only offices to offer this cutting edge technology. This Machine takes Micro-needling to a whole new level. It is faster, more customizable and less painful than its predecessors. The Virtue-Smart RF uses 36 gold coated needles at one of three treatment speeds with robotic precision delivery to provide the best Microneedling Radiofrequency treatment in the industry. It provides immediate results with little to no down time. The results improve over time as your body continues to build Collagen and Elastin to improve your appearance. It helps shrink pore size, tightens skin laxity, improves fine lines and wrinkles, builds Collagen and Elastin, improves scars especially those caused by Acne and helps improve the appearance of stretch marks. It can also be used with PRP or a Proprietary Stem Cell System. Only the Virtue RF pairs the treatment with LED Red or Blue light to help with Acne or signs of aging. The facial treatments can be followed by a Microcurrent Dual Face Mask System by Franz Skincare. This mask uses Ion Currents and Patented Tissue X Technology to transport the nourishing substances deeper into the Dermis where they help the most. Physiq was recently voted the most innovative and best Non-Invasive body treatment to rid you of those hard-to-treat areas that weight loss and diet leave untouched. This new State-Of-The-Art machine uses four pads to treat multiple areas of the body at once, resulting in a leaner, more sleek and toned physique. No anesthetic is necessary to contour your body. Physiq is the first to use STEP Technology (Sequential Thermal and Electrical Pulse) Muscle Stimulation with Laser Lipolysis in a sequential manner with contact cooling. The patient can actually control the energy and comfort level themselves, which is the main reason why the procedure is relatively pain-free and requires no down time. It can treat multiple body parts at once, including the inner thighs, buttocks, abdominals and flanks, just to name a few. Experts recommend five sessions, each spaced two weeks apart, for optimal results. Fox Vein and Laser Experts completed a study last year for Hair Restoration using AnteAge Stem Cells and Microneedling using Virtue RF. The participants had amazing results and the patients noticed thicker hair, even after the first few treatments. The study was designed as a six - month trial, with patients coming in every two weeks for three months, then once monthly for three months. In between visits, the patients are instructed to use a Hair Care Formula by AnteAge at home. Unretouched, before and after photos show significant hair regrowth. “Many people have struggled with thinning hair and hair loss from stress, aging, medications, COVID-19, illness, etc. and this has been so helpful,” says Dr. Fox. Fox Vein & Laser Experts also has a full-time Aesthetician on staff, Samantha. She has experience providing Peels, Facials and Laser Hair Removal for more than a decade. She performs all types of cutting-edge Facials, Peels, Jelly Masks, Hydrafacials, Aquagold, Oxygen Facials and more. Samantha is here to help make your skin look amazing and feel youthful regardless of your age. Whatever your skin and body goals are, Samantha can help you achieve them. Fox Vein & Laser Experts has been a leader in Vein Treatment and care for over 20 years, with a focus on Venous Insufficiency, Endovenous Laser, Sclerother-apy, Foam Sclerotherapy, Phlebectomies, Ultrasound-Guided Therapies and so much more. They have won numerous awards and have remained on the cutting edge of Vein Care for decades. Dr. Fox and her team are able to treat your skin, Veins and body issues with the best, newest, most Cutting-Edge Ma-chines and Procedures available. Fox Vein & Laser Experts is an industry leader in their procedures, techniques and always have something exciting going on to offer their patients. For special offers and opportunities to win complimentary treatments, make sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram. For consultations or more information regarding any treatments or procedures, call: (954) 627-1045. < Previous News Next News >

“INTO THE WOODS”: A Fantastical Fairytale Of Mystery & Enchantment October 12, 2023 Share When the late Tony and Pulitzer Prize Winning Composer and Lyricist Stephen Sondheim invited audiences to go with him Into the Woods, they found it populated with characters uprooted from childhood fairy tales in a forest deeply shaded by adult longings, disappointments, trials, tragedies and a few hard-won triumphs. Audiences and critics alike responded with the original 1988 Broadway Blockbuster bringing home Tony Awards® for Sondheim’s score and James Lapine’s book. Proving its timeless appeal, a new production in 2002 won the Tony for “Best Revival of a Musical.” Into the Woods opens Slow Burn Theatre Company’s 2023/2024 Season in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presented by American National Bank from Saturday, October 14th through Sunday, October 29th. This modern classic weaves together a fantastical fairytale of mystery and enchantment with a euphoric score creating a sophisticated musical. The story follows the Baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King's Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch's spell, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone's wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results. The cast features Ben Liebert and Melissa Whitworth as the baker and his wife and Carbonell-Winning Actress Jeni Hacker as the witch. They are joined by Carbonell Winners Elizabeth Dimon, Jinon Deeb and Patti Gardner along with Aaron Atkinson, Mikayla Cohen, Kimmi Johnson, Matthew Korinko, Stephen Fala, Luis Pablo Garcia. Michael Materdomini, Ralph Meitzler, Kristi Rose Mills, Sergi Robles, Katherine Stenzel and Giselle Watts. Director Patrick Fitzwater heads a creative team that includes Music Director James Mablin, Scenic Designer Kelly Tighe, Costumer Designer Rick Peña, Lighting Designer Clifford Spulock and Assistant Lighting Designer Stevie Bleich. The Production Team includes Production Stage Manager John Murdock, Assistant Stage Manager Sam Kronhaus and Technical Director Timothy S. Dickey. Performance times vary with the company also offering an open captioned performance on Sunday, October 22nd at 2:00 p.m. in which spoken dialogue scrolls across a digital screen as the action occurs on stage. The open captioned performances of Slow Burn Theatre productions this season are generously underwritten by the Amaturo Family Foundation. This production is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International. Into the Woods was originally directed on Broadway by James Lapine with orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick. Performance times vary. Slow Burn Theatre’s 2023/2024 Season continues with Disney’s The Little Mermaid (December 16th -31st), Sister Act (February 3rd - 18th), The Prom (March 23th - April 7th) and The SpongeBob Musical (June 8th - 23rd). Major support for the Slow Burn Theatre Company is provided by the Broward County Cultural Division, the Cultural Council, and the Broward County Board of County Commissioners. Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222; in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information visit: www.BrowardCenter.org The Broward Center 2023/2024 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and UHealth University of Miami Health System. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org < Previous News Next News >

The Broward Center Invites The Community To A FREE Open House Jewish Connection News Aug 15, 2025 The Broward Center For The Performing Arts Will Host Its Free Annual Open House Showcasing Fall Classes On Saturday August 23, From 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. In The Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center At The Broward Center For the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Avenue In Fort Lauderdale. First Time Students Who Register In Person At The Open House Will Receive A 10% Discount. During the open house, guests can tour the education center, observe or participate in classes, meet the teaching artists, sing in Broadway Karaoke, win prizes, and enjoy an array of family activities and light refreshments. Singing, dance, improv and acting classes for children, teens and adults at the Broward Center are designed to encourage artistic expression and teach theater skills in a fun and supportive environment. Special classes for people with physical and intellectual disabilities are also available. Additionally, students have the opportunity to audition to be in a show or represent the Broward Center at upcoming community performances. Fall classes begin on Tuesday, September 2 and the majority continue for 10 weeks. Classes are limited in size and tailored to the appropriate age and skill levels from beginner to more advanced. All class fees include complimentary parking. Online class registration is quick and user friendly, and students who purchase a second class can enjoy a 10% discount on any additional class. Fall classes and open house schedules are available at www.BrowardCenter.org/Classes . Guests who plan to attend the open house are encouraged to RSVP in advance via online registration form at: https://browardcenter.wufoo.com/forms/rsvp-open-house-fall-classes-2025/ - Via email at: registrar@browardcenter.org - Or by phone at: (954) 468-2689. Need-based full and partial scholarships for the education programs are available thanks to the generosity of the Ronald Plotkin Scholarship Fund and David Kilmnick & Robert Vitelli Scholarship Fund. For more information visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Like us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter and: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @BrowardCenter, subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter - And join the conversation with #BrowardCenter . The Broward Center 2025/2026 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. About The Broward Center for the Performing Arts One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 850 performances each year to more than 600,000 patrons, displaying a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level, the Nicklaus Children’s Health System Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion, and innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. With one of the largest arts-in-education programs in the United States, the Broward Center serves more than 100,000 students annually. The Broward Center also manages The Parker, an iconic Fort Lauderdale venue, the Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on the campus of Nova Southeastern University and the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in Miami-Dade County. The Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Inc. receives and maintains funds to sustain, develop and secure the future of the Broward Center. The Broward Center is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org . Previous Next