Celebrating The 15th Anniversary Season With A Stellar Lineup And A Legacy Of Impact Aventura Digest Sep 5, 2025 The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Kicks Off Its 15th Anniversary Season, Celebrating A Legacy Of Enriching The Vibrant Community Of Aventura, Known As The City Of Excellence. During This Milestone Year, The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Will Continue To Elevate The Community’s Cultural, Educational And Artistic Landscape With A Season Filled With Exciting, Unforgettable Moments In One Of The City’s Most Cherished Spaces. “We’re incredibly proud to celebrate 15 years of serving South Florida,” said Jeff Kiltie, General Manager of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. “This season is not only a celebration of world-class performances and returning favorites, but also a tribute to the people who have supported us — our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff. We are excited to celebrate another fantastic season of excellence with the community.” Historic Highlights In July 2010, Avi Hoffman’s “Too Jewish?” was the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center’s inaugural performance on stage, which established the theater as a cultural cornerstone in South Florida. This season, Hoffman returns to celebrate this anniversary year with “Too Jewish?” on Wednesday, March 4th, 2026 and “Still Too Jewish After All These Years” on Thursday, March 5th, 2026. Throughout the years, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center has hosted some of the most recognizable entertainers in the world. The theater celebrated its official grand opening on October 23, 2010, with the incomparable Patti LuPone and then on October 23, 2015 celebrated the 5 Anniversary with Bernadette Peters. Among others who have graced the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center stage were Rod Stewart, Art Garfunkel, George Winston, Nestor Torres, Mandy Patinkin, Linda Eder, Melissa Manchester and more and comedians Robert Klein, Andrew Dice Clay and Elon Gold, among others. “The biggest growth we have seen over the years is the increase in rental activity,” Kiltie said. “Each season we attract more and more artists and companies who want to perform on our stage. In the inaugural season, rentals accounted for 23% of the overall programming. In the last two seasons rentals have accounted for 50 to 60% of the overall programming.” Over the last 15 years, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center has broadened its audience, deepened community engagement, strengthened its economic impact, entertained patrons and provided opportunities for more than 100,000 students that includes educational programming, recitals, camps and school and family events. Since 2010, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center has hosted a summer theatre camp, run by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Performance Project School of the Arts, attended by more than 2,800 campers. In addition, the more than 200 ushers who volunteer at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center have logged more than 55,000 hours. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center has had a significant economic impact on the region. In 15 years, more than 375,000 guests, who also visited local hotels, restaurants and shops, attended 1,925 performances, generating more than $11 Million in ticket sales and supporting local jobs in security, valet services, janitorial staff, technical production and more. In addition, hundreds of hotel rooms were booked for guest artists. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is also a gathering place for the community with festivals, Holocaust remembrance events, Veterans Day celebrations, corporate events, MMA exhibitions and even gymnastics recitals. In keeping with its mission to serve all members of the community, the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center has also presented sensory-friendly performances and 10 non-English language productions in Spanish, French, Arabic, Turkish and Haitian Creole. The annual Aventura International Film Series has screened 97 international films since its inception in 2010, showcasing cinema from around the globe. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center has also made a lasting impact through its partnerships with the Aventura City of Excellence School and Don Soffer Aventura High School, among others, and additional local community organizations, creating opportunities for arts education, student performances, summer camps and community collaborations that enrich the cultural fabric of the region. Tickets to all anniversary season shows are on sale now. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: 1 (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: 954.660.6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram: @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-Square-Foot, 330-Seat Waterfront Complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. Previous Next

Laser Lights & Pixie Dust: July Shimmers At The Broward Center For The Performing Arts Thu Jun 13 2024 16:13:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A New Year, A New Beginning: Don't Start Off On The Wrong Foot by Making Excuses Bryan Golden December 22, 2022 Share The New Year is a time of resolutions. It's a time when people commit to making a change in their life. Losing weight, changing jobs, saving money, making money, a new relationship, getting in shape, going back to school, or giving up smoking, are just some of the goals people set for themselves on January 1st. Although it's possible for anyone to make a change or a new start, it takes determination, commitment and persistence. A new goal must be your own. You have to really want it. Without a burning desire, your motivation will fade quickly. It's virtually impossible to make a change due to external pressure. You may agree to what someone else wants you to do, but it's very difficult to succeed without an internal drive. So, in order to successfully make a change or reach a goal, you have to make sure it's what you really want. Don't start off on the wrong foot by making excuses as to why you will probably fail. If you don't truly believe you can do it, you won't. People who do this will say something like, "I'll try to do it, but …” Or you may hear, "I tried before and it didn't work but I'll give it another go." Before you begin, make sure the only things you are telling yourself are, "I can," "I will" and "I will do whatever it takes." A new beginning is a three-step process. You have to first know what you want, formulate a plan to achieve it and then take the necessary action to get it. Setting a specific goal is essential. The more detailed the better. If you want to lose weight, how much and by when? If you want a new job, what will it be and how much will it pay? If you want to save money, how much and how often? Next, you need a plan. Just like your goal, your plan must be as detailed as possible. If you are going to lose weight, what will be on your menu each week? Are you going to go on a specific diet, cut out certain foods, or just eat less? For finding a new job, what will be your strategy? Do you need a new resume? Will you look on line, in the classifieds, use an employment agency, network, cold call, or all of these? If you want to save more money, in what areas will you cut back? Do you know where your money is going? Have you created a budget? You want your plan to be doable. The smaller the steps are, the more likely you will be to succeed. Any time you feel a step is too big, break it down further. It doesn't matter how small each step is so long as you keep going and never give up. Losing 20 pounds may feel overwhelming, but dropping two pounds a month doesn't seem too bad. If you keep at it for 10 months, you will reach your goal. Saving $3000 might appear beyond reach, but cutting back $9 a day on family spending is manageable. Finally, you must take action. The best goals and greatest plans will go nowhere without action. The reason you divided your plan into small sections is so it would be easy to take action, one day at a time. All you have to do is keep going, until you achieve your goal. Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits." Contact Bryan at: Bryan@columnist.com or visit: www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com < Previous News Next News >

“Bridge The Gap” Basketball Game - Strengthening The Relationships Between Youth And Law Enforcement South Florida Sun Times Aug 6, 2026 The YMCA Of South Florida Recently Hosted The 14th Annual “Bridge The Gap,” A Friendly Basketball Game With Teen Campers And Local Law Enforcement Officers From The City Of Fort Lauderdale And Broward Sheriff’s Office At The L.A. Lee YMCA/Mizell Community Center’s Gym In Fort Lauderdale. Congresswoman Dr. Rosalind Osgood And Baltimore Ravens Wide Receiver Zay Flowers, Who Played In “Bridge The Gap” Games In His Youth, Spoke At The Game. The Annual “Bridge the Gap” basketball game creates positive interactions, helping local youth interact with law enforcement officers as mentors, allies and community partners. It is also an opportunity for officers to connect with residents on a personal level and build trust, understanding and mutual respect. Over the years, participants have developed genuine connections with officers who regularly patrol their neighborhoods. When positive relationships are established, communities have often experienced increased cooperation, improved communication and a reduction in youth-related crime. Several teens who played in the “Bridge the Gap Basketball Game” over the years, including NFL players Brian Burns and Flowers, have gone on to achieve success both academically and athletically. Their continued success serves as an inspiration to current participants and demonstrates the long-term impact of positive community engagement opportunities. About the YMCA of South Florida For more than a century, the YMCA has been woven into the fabric of the South Florida community. As an award-winning NonProfit, the Y is committed to strengthening community through more than 200 programs serving everyone from six months old to 100 years young. Our Family Centers and programs are inclusive, vibrant hubs of community life, offering a diverse array of classes, cutting-edge fitness facilities, life-saving aquatics, exciting community events, unforgettable camps, supportive afterschool care, and holistic health and wellness programming. At the Y, there’s something for everyone. Join the movement by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or: https://YMCASouthFlorida.org . Law enforcement officers from City of Fort Lauderdale Police, Broward Sheriff’s Office and teen campers pose for a group photo. Sharon Hughes, YMCA of South Florida’s Family & Youth Resource Director and Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers Teen campers and City of Fort Lauderdale Police officers discuss strategy before the game begins Previous Next

Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi Launches New Premier Sightseeing Cruise South Florida Sun Times Jun 11, 2026 Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi Is Excited To Announce The Launch Of Its Brand-New Premier Sightseeing Cruise Last Week And Are Offering Visitors And Locals A New Way To Experience The Venice Of America From The Water. Departing daily from Stop F7 at Las Olas Landing, the 90 minute narrated sightseeing cruise will take guests through Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Intracoastal Waterway aboard one of the iconic Water Taxi vessels. Guests will experience waterfront mansions, mega yachts, historic landmarks, and the vibrant energy of Fort Lauderdale from a unique perspective on the water. The Premier Sightseeing Cruise will operate three times daily at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m., creating flexible opportunities for guests to enjoy the experience throughout the day. “This new sightseeing cruise is an exciting addition to what we offer here at Water Taxi,” said Bill Walker, CEO of Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi. “Fort Lauderdale is one of the most beautiful cities in the country from the water, and this experience allows both visitors and locals to slow down, relax, and truly take in everything that makes this city so special.” The cruise is designed to provide a relaxing and entertaining experience for visitors looking to explore Fort Lauderdale beyond the traditional beach experience while also offering residents a fresh way to rediscover their city. “We are always looking for ways to continue elevating the guest experience and showcase Fort Lauderdale as a premier waterfront destination,” said Greg Farley, President of Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi. “The Premier Sightseeing Cruise gives people the opportunity to enjoy the city’s incredible waterways in a fun, accessible, and memorable way.” Guests aboard the cruise will enjoy live narration highlighting the history, culture, architecture, and lifestyle that make Fort Lauderdale one of South Florida’s most unique destinations. “We’re thrilled to officially launch this new experience for our guests,” said Jennifer Hoffman, General Manager of Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi. “Whether someone is visiting for the first time or has lived here for years, there’s something magical about seeing Fort Lauderdale from the water. We believe this cruise will quickly become a must-do attraction in the city.” Tickets for the Premier Sightseeing Cruise are available now at: https://watertaxi.com/premier-sightseeing-cruise/ For more information about Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi and its experiences, visit: https://watertaxi.com . Previous Next

Make The Summer "Purr-Fect": Here Are Some Fun Ideas To Do With Your Furry Friend June 15, 2023 Share Americans are no strangers to spending money on their pets and summer is the "purr-fect" time for families to spoil their furry family members. In fact, pet parents are taking greater initiative in providing for their pets' health and lifestyle. In 2022, Americans spent $136 Billion on their pets, up more than 10% from 2021, according to the American Pet Products Association. Here are some fun ideas to do with your furry friend this summer: Get Outside Going for a walk, heading to a dog park or simply running in the backyard can all provide fun, engaging ways for pets to get outside and enjoy some sunshine. Join in on the action with a game of fetch using your pet's favorite ball or toy so you can bond with your furry friend all while getting a little exercise. Feed Pets Their Favorite Foods Feeding your dog the best food possible, like fresh food, has become increasingly popular. A veterinary-formulated option like Pure Balance Pro+, which can be found at WalMart, has its own fresh dog food and is a healthy and affordable option to keep pups satisfied. Plan A Playdate Inviting a friend or family member who has his or her own furry friend gives your pet an opportunity to play with another animal while you enjoy catching up with your own companion. Whether you're in the backyard or at a dog park, it's an out-of-the-norm experience for pets that allows them to socialize, play and make the day feel special. Just toss out a few toys and let them run or, for a more challenging and engaging day of play, set up an obstacle course for them to explore together. Support A Good Cause If you want to shop for a cause to help other pets while celebrating your own, check out Best Friends Animal Society's line of pet gear, apparel, toys and accessories, exclusively available on: www.Walmart.com - Proceeds support the nonprofit organization and its mission to make every shelter no-kill by 2025. Pet parents can also spread the pet love by using the retailer's Spark Good Round Up at checkout online or in-app to donate to more than 500 pet charities. Keep Your Pet Healthy and Happy Keeping pets healthy is the most important thing a pet parent can do. With innovative cat litter options available in the cat aisle, it's easy to get the scoop on your cat's well-being. For example, some lines make keeping track of your cat's health easier with crystals that detect medical issues by changing colors when something is wrong. To find more ways to treat your furry family members this National Pet Month, visit: www.Walmart.com/PetSupplies Looking For A Furry Friend - Adopt Are you looking for a wonderful family dog who loves everyone she meets? If so, Raven (ID A667690) is the gal for you. At 4 years old, and 65 pounds, she was sadly given up because the newborn baby is allergic. Raven loves belly rubs and if you have a pool, don’t be surprised if you see her in it doing laps. She likes to play fetch, will sleep in her own bed at night, is super sweet and is good with other dogs. Handsome Bevo (ID 651929) wants a family to love. After having a home since he was a kitten, this fellow who is just 1 ½ years old now, is in search of another family to call his home. Bevo is a gorgeous cocoa and white, golden-eyed kitty who doesn't understand why he could not move with his family. This has not affected his loving personality, as he still is a curious explorer who thrives with attention. Bevo enjoys interactive play, treats, and a lot of petting and cuddling. Bevo will be a wonderful addition to a loving, attentive home. To meet a pet, complete the pre-adoption application at: www.humanebroward.com and then stop by the Humane Society of Broward County located at 2070 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. The Adoption Kennels open daily at 11:00 a.m. and if you have questions, call: (954) 989-3977. Extension: 6. If you can’t adopt, the shelter has a wish list on Amazon where you can purchase a wish and have it sent to the shelter. < Previous News Next News >

Experience The Magic Of Broadway In The Botanical: Through The Decades South Florida Sun Times Aug 20, 2025 Back By Popular Demand, Area Stage Is Excited To Announce Their Return Back To Miami Beach With Broadway In The Botanical: Through The Decades, Now Featuring An All-New Setlist That Will Take Audiences On A Musical Journey Through Time. Scheduled for Saturday, September 13th, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., this edition of Broadway in the Botanical: Through The Decades will showcase beloved family favorites and timeless theatre hits, performed by a talented mix of local aspiring and professional artists. Designed to highlight the intersection of nature and live performance, the event provides audiences with a unique opportunity to experience musical theater in a scenic and immersive environment. Guests are welcome to bring picnic blankets and lawn chairs for seating in designated areas, while additional seating will also be available for those who prefer a traditional arrangement. A selection of food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the evening. This event is made possible in part by the Miami Beach Cultural Arts Council. Event Date: Saturday, September 13th @ 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $25 - General Admission Location: Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139 About Area Stage: Founded in 1989 by John and Maria Rodaz, Area Stage began as one of the pioneers of the Miami Beach arts community on Lincoln Road. Now celebrating 36 years of artistic excellence, this non-profit theater company has become one of South Florida’s most influential cultural institutions, dedicated to artistic innovation, education, and accessibility to the arts. In addition to its acclaimed Mainstage productions, Area Stage houses a world-class Conservatory, providing professional training to hundreds of young aspiring artists each year. The company is also home to the Inspire Theatre Project, which offers meaningful performance opportunities to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Recently, Area Stage was honored with the 2024 Miami Dade Favorites Silver Award, a testament to its lasting impact on the community. Committed to pushing artistic boundaries and fostering the next generation of performers, Area Stage continues to provide extraordinary theatrical experiences to the Miami community and beyond. Tickets for Broadway in the Botanical: Through The Decades are now available for purchase. For more information and to reserve tickets, visit: www.areastage.org . Previous Next

The National High School Football Showcase: Powerhouse Broward County High Schools Face Off Against Elite Players From Across The Country August 8, 2024 Share Broward Education Foundation announced it will present the Third Annual Broward County National High School Football Showcase, bringing national exposure to seven powerhouse Broward County High School Football Programs as they face-off against seven elite schools from across the country. The highly anticipated matchups, which include five of the nation’s top 10 ranked high school football teams, will be played throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale from August 22nd - August 24th, 2024. All games will be televised or live streamed, with three games televised nationally on ESPN. “South Florida, specifically Broward County, remains the most heavily recruited area in the country with scouts from the SEC and ACC and other national programs zeroed in our caliber of talent,” said Shawn Cerra, Director and Co-Founder, Broward County National High School Football Showcase. “We’ve put a lot of hard work into cultivating this event to ensure its success and we look forward to welcoming players and their families from around the country to Greater Fort Lauderdale.” The economic impact of the 2024 Broward County National High School Football Showcase is estimated to be more than $3 Million. Hundreds of elite high school football players and their coaches and trainers, along with their families and friends, will descend upon Greater Fort Lauderdale for three full days to witness the best high school football weekend in America. “Less than 1% of high schoolers get to continue their journey playing football in college, that’s why we treat this like a legit bowl game. If we can create a bowl game like experience that they may not get to relive college than that’s a win for us,” said Dr. Kevin Perry, Associate Director and Co-Founder, Broward County National High School Football Showcase. “We can really impact these kids’ future through exposure, some got offers to play in college because our last Showcase gave them visibility. That’s why we do this.” 2024 Broward County National High School Football Showcase TV Schedule all games will be broadcast or streamed live August 22nd at 4:00 p.m. Peachtree Ridge (GA) vs. Monarch High at Coconut Creek High on Florida Sports August 22nd at 8:00 p.m. Miami Northwestern vs. Coconut Creek at Coconut Creek on Becon TV August 23rd at 7:00 p.m. Lake Mary vs. Cardinal Gibbons at Cardinal Gibbons High on Becon TV August 23rd at 7:00 p.m. Milton (GA) vs. American Heritage at St. Thomas Aquinas on ESPN August 24th at 4:00 p.m. Bishop Gorman (NV) vs. St. Thomas Aquinas at St. Thomas Aquinas at ESPN August 24th at 7:00 p.m. Hoover (AL) vs. Western at Western High School in Davie on Florida Sports August 24th at 8:00 p.m. St. John Bosco (CA) vs. Chaminade-Madonna at St. Thomas Aquinas on ESPN2 The Broward County National High School Football Showcase is significant for Broward Education Foundation, which was inspired to create a dedicated athletic arm, it remains the only education foundation in the country to do so. “They say the road to a national championship starts right here in Broward County,” said James A. Knapp, President & CEO of Broward Education Foundation. “We know that to be the best, you have to play the best and it’s our honor to shine a spotlight on these incredible local athletes who get a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase their talent in front of a national audience.” Broward County National High School Football Showcase general admission tickets are $15, purchase at: https://gofan.co/app/school/FL87562 - In 2023, all games were sold-out, so fans are encouraged to get their tickets now. Thanks to the generous support from community sponsors, visiting teams receive a complimentary two-night hotel stay, three meals a day, two charter buses and tickets to visit a Broward County attraction. Players from all 14 teams will receive Addias Sports Apparel and an all-expense outing to Dave & Busters. Major Sponsors of the 2024 Broward County National High School Football Showcase include Adidas, Broward County Athletic Association, Dave & Busters, Jersey Mike's, Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, Mahi Shriners, Paragon and Visit Lauderdale. The Broward Education Foundation The NonProfit Broward Education Foundation aligns with Broward County Public Schools by providing grants for teachers who develop innovative curriculum that increases student outcomes; vitally needed school supplies for students and teachers in Title I schools; scholarships for qualified high school seniors; and support for programs and initiatives like Debate, TurnAround Arts, STEM and more. Each year, Broward Education Foundation contributes more than $4 Million to Broward County schools, serving as the catalyst for educational excellence. For information, visit Broward Education Foundation, email: BEFInfo@browardschools.com . Like or follow them on: Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn. < Previous News Next News >

Preparing Students For What's Next In Work In An AI World By Family Features Apr 23, 2026 Automation, AI And Societal Economic Changes Are Affecting The Workforce And Making A Significant Impact On The Employment Prospects Of Future Generations. More than one-third of today's college graduates are "underemployed," meaning they work jobs that don't require a college degree and may pay less than a living wage, according to data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. At the same time, a World Economic Forum report explored how advances in AI are threatening to negatively impact access to entry-level and even mid-level jobs for millions of Americans. Looking ahead, research by Georgetown University indicates that by 2031, 70% of jobs will require education or training beyond high school. However, data from the National Center for Education Statistics indicate only one-third of high school graduates go on to complete a college degree with many of those being in fields that are not in high-earning, high-growth professions. These challenges are not lost on today's students. In a survey by Junior Achievement and Citizens, 57% of teens reported AI has negatively impacted their career outlook, raising concerns about job replacement and the need for new skills. What's more, a strong majority (87%) expect to earn extra income through side hustles, gig work or Social Media content creation. "To put students on the path toward greater earning potential and economic mobility in a rapidly changing economy, students need proactive education and exposure to transferable skills and competencies, such as creative and critical thinking, financial literacy, problem-solving, collaboration and career planning," said Jack Harris, CEO, Junior Achievement. This assertion is consistent with findings from the Camber Collective. This social impact consulting group identified four key life experiences students can consider and explore that positively affect lifetime earnings, including: • Completing secondary education • Graduating with a degree in a high-paying field of study • Receiving mentorship during adolescence • Obtaining a first full-time job with opportunity for advancement Students aiming to equip themselves with the skills and experience necessary for the future workforce can seek: • Learning opportunities that are designed with the future in mind. For example, learning experiences offered through Junior Achievement reflect the skills and competencies needed to promote economic mobility. • Internships or apprenticeships that provide hands-on experience and exposure to a career field that can't be found in a textbook. • Volunteer or extracurricular roles that develop communication and leadership skills. Virtually every career field requires these soft skills for growth and greater earning potential. • Relationships that provide insight and connection. Networking with individuals who are already excelling in a chosen field, as well as peers who share similar aspirations, offers perspective from those who are where you wish to be and potentially opens future doors for employment. • Courses that offer introductory insight into a chosen career path. Local trade or technical schools and other training organizations may even offer certifications that align with a student's area of interest. To learn more about how students can pursue education for what's next, visit: www.JA.org . Source: Junior Achievement In a survey by Junior Achievement and Citizens, 57% of teens reported AI has negatively impacted their career outlook, raising concerns about job replacement and the need for new skills. Previous Next

Museum Of Discovery And Science Debuts First-Of-Its-Kind AI-Powered Everglades Theater South Florida Sun Times Jun 25, 2026 The Museum of Discovery And Science (MODS) Has Opened The Everglades Theater, Sponsored By Broward County Cultural Division, As Part Of Phase 1 Of Build A Better World: The Future Begins With You, MODS’ Newest Permanent Exhibit Gallery. Designed as a first-of-its-kind Artificial Intelligence (AI) -guided, challenge-based theater experience, the Everglades Theater uses cinematic visuals, interactive gaming technology and artificial intelligence to transport guests into one of the world’s most important ecosystems. Guided by Lilly, an AI-powered North American river otter, guests become active participants in the Everglades, identifying invasive species, planting mangroves, reducing light pollution, managing water flow and building connected wetland habitats. Through hands-on challenges and collaborative gameplay, the experience helps children and families explore how everyday actions can support healthier ecosystems, stronger communities and a more resilient future. The result is a distinctly South Florida experience where environmental science becomes personal, playful and empowering, helping guests move from environmental awareness to environmental action. “Build a Better World: The Future Begins with You reflects the Museum’s commitment to helping children and families understand the natural world while building the character strengths needed to care for it,” said Joseph P. Cox, President and CEO of MODS. “The Everglades Theater brings that mission to life through immersive technology, Artificial Intelligence and hands-on gameplay that explore the ecosystems shaping South Florida. Most importantly, it helps children see that they can make a difference, strengthening their confidence and critical thinking skills as they work together.” Inside the Everglades Theater, guests step into a vivid digital landscape where their choices matter. Through gesture-based interactive games, guests can observe, decide, test ideas and see how their actions affect the environment around them. The experience is designed around the character strengths of caring, confidence, cooperation and critical thinking, encouraging guests to work together while building a deeper understanding of South Florida’s interconnected ecosystems. By connecting environmental learning with problem-solving and collaboration, the experience reinforces the exhibit’s broader message that small actions can contribute to meaningful change. “Broward County Cultural Division is proud to support creative experiences that connect residents and visitors with Broward’s culture, environment and sense of place,” said Phillip Dunlap, Director of Broward County Cultural Division. “The Everglades Theater offers families a memorable new way to experience the stories, landscapes and natural heritage that make South Florida unique.” The Everglades Theater opens with five interactive experiences: Endangered Everglades Guests become conservation problem-solvers as they identify invasive species, including Burmese pythons, blue tilapia and Old World climbing ferns and learn how these species disrupt native habitats. Guests also help count endangered species, reinforcing how scientists use observation and data to guide conservation decisions. Mighty Mangroves Guests plant mangrove seedlings, explore mangrove root systems and discover how these coastal forests protect shorelines, shelter young animals and strengthen South Florida’s resilience. The game connects climate learning with nature-based solutions that help protect communities and wildlife. Nighttime Magic Guests enter the Everglades after dark to explore nocturnal animals, dark skies and the effects of light pollution. Through interactive challenges, guests learn how smarter lighting choices can help protect fireflies, bats, owls and other species that depend on darkness. Seasons in the Everglades Guests investigate the wet and dry seasons, migratory birds and South Florida’s complex water systems. By adjusting canals, gates and pump stations, guests learn how water management supports wetlands, wildlife and people in a changing climate. Wilderness Wetlands Home Guests build their own Everglades by bringing habitats to life, from uplands and sawgrass marshes to cypress swamps, mangroves and coral reefs. The game highlights biodiversity, systems thinking and the many connections that make the Everglades essential to life in South Florida. The Everglades Theater, sponsored by Broward County Cultural Division, is one of three signature experiences in Phase 1 of Build a Better World: The Future Begins with You, a transformational initiative made possible through support from Lilly Endowment Inc., which selected the Museum of Discovery and Science as one of only 23 children’s museums nationwide to participate in a national effort focused on character development and meaningful learning experiences for children and families. The gallery also features the Mangrove Mangal Climber, sponsored by JM Family Enterprises, and the Atlantic and Pacific Coral Reef Aquariums, sponsored with support from Weston Nissan/Weston Volvo and the Hudson Family Foundation. Together, these experiences create a visually rich, highly interactive destination where guests can explore environmental science through meaningful play, character development, immersive design and technology-enhanced storytelling. These experiences establish Build a Better World as a major new destination within MODS, giving families a visually rich, distinctly South Florida experience that will continue to grow when Phase 2 opens in fall 2026. For more information, visit: https://mods.org/buildabetterworld . About Broward Cultural Division The Broward County Cultural Division invests in and advances the arts and cultural sector across Broward County. In 2026, the County commemorates 50 years since adopting its first public art ordinance, laying the foundation for one of the nation’s earliest public art programs. The Division provides grants to cultural organizations and artists, manages the County's Public Art & Design Program and supports the growth of the creative economy through special events, capacity-building and communications. By nurturing local talent and fueling Broward's creative infrastructure, the Division enhances the County's cultural environment and economic vitality. For more information, visit: @BrowardArts. Or: https://Broward.org/Arts . About Lilly Endowment Inc. Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private foundation created in 1937 by J. K. Lilly and his sons, Eli and J.K. Jr., through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. While those gifts remain the financial bedrock of the Endowment, the Endowment is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with its founders’ wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion. While the Endowment funds programs throughout the United States on an invitational basis to support these causes, especially in the field of religion, it maintains a special commitment to its founders’ hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana. 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 Square Feet 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’s hours are Monday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 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 Photos courtesy of the Museum of Discovery and Science. Guests experience the first-of-its-kind Everglades Theater featuring Lilly, an AI-powered river otter, in Phase 1 of Build a Better World: The Future Begins with You at MODS. Previous Next

Does Medicare Cover Home Safety Devices? Thu Oct 19 2023 16:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hallandale’s P.Pole Pizza Offering Its Own Fast And Free Delivery Thu Nov 17 2022 17:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)