YMCA Of South Florida Hosts 10th Annual Veteran’s Day Salute Thu Nov 07 2024 17:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

How Focusing On Emotional Resilience Fosters New Year's Resolutions Success By Merilee Kern, MBA Jan 14, 2026 Every January, The Calendar Resets And Optimism Surges. People Resolve To Strengthen Relationships, Manage Stress More Effectively, Improve Their Health, And Become Calmer, More Resilient Versions Of Themselves, Yet Despite Sincere Effort, Many Of These Resolutions Quietly Unravel Within Weeks. According To Emotional Leadership Expert Owen Marcus, The Reason Has Little To Do With Motivation Or Discipline And Everything To Do With Biology. “Most resolutions fail not because people lack motivation, discipline, or intelligence, but because they are unknowingly working against their own physiology,” says Marcus, Founder and CEO of MELD and Author of “Grow Up: A Man’s Guide to Emotional Maturity.” “When stress accumulates and the nervous system remains in a constant state of alert, even the most sincere goals become harder to sustain.” Marcus explains that when the body is locked in survival mode, it deprioritizes the very functions required to sustain change. “When the nervous system is oriented toward survival, it limits access to higher cognitive functions like planning, creativity, emotional regulation, and sustained focus,” he says. “People are not failing their resolutions. Their bodies are prioritizing survival overgrowth.” This physiological reality reframes why so many well-intentioned goals fall apart. Without addressing nervous system regulation and emotional load, even the most carefully crafted resolutions become unsustainable. Emotional resilience, Marcus argues, is the missing foundation. “Emotional resilience is the capacity to stay regulated under stress, recover from challenges, and remain connected to yourself and others while facing difficulty,” he says. “It is not a personality trait or a mindset that some people are born with. It is a biological capacity shaped by nervous system health, social connection, and how stress is processed and resolved in the body.” Rather than forcing outcomes through willpower, Marcus advocates reframing resolutions as resilience building practices. “In practical terms, emotional resilience determines whether stress strengthens us or slowly depletes us,” he explains. “When people reframe resolutions around building resilience rather than forcing outcomes, they remove the invisible barriers that lead to procrastination, self-sabotage, and eventual abandonment.” This shift becomes especially important when people set goals around relationships, one of the most common New Year aspirations. While relationships are often viewed as emotional or lifestyle choices, Marcus emphasizes that they are a biological necessity. “Relationships are actually a physiological resource,” he says. “Decades of social genomic research show that our social environment directly shapes gene expression.” Chronic loneliness, he explains, activates a pro-inflammatory genetic profile linked to depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, and accelerated aging. “What this means is that connection is not optional for health. It is foundational,” Marcus says. To support resilience, Marcus recommends consistent, meaningful social engagement rather than surface level interaction. “Practically speaking, people benefit from two to three points of meaningful social contact each week,” he explains. “These are not casual check-ins or transactional conversations. They involve shared experience, emotional presence, and authenticity for at least ten minutes.” When connection is approached this way, it becomes a powerful regulator of stress. “This type of connection downregulates the stress response and supports brain health,” Marcus says. “When relationships are treated as a biological necessity rather than a luxury, people begin to see dramatic shifts not only in emotional well-being but also in resilience, clarity, and energy.” Stress management itself is another resolution that often falls short because it is misunderstood. “Traditional stress management focuses heavily on individual coping strategies, but stress physiology is relational,” Marcus explains. One of the most powerful mechanisms for regulating stress is co regulation, the process by which one person’s nervous system helps stabilize another’s. “This is not psychological theory. It is hardwired biology,” he says. “The vagus nerve, the largest nerve in the body, is designed to downregulate stress when we experience safe, authentic connection with another person.” While mindfulness apps and solo techniques can be helpful, Marcus notes they cannot fully replace relational regulation. Over time, unresolved stress accumulates and contributes to allostatic load, the wear and tear on the body caused by chronic stress. “Releasing accumulated stress reduces allostatic load and training the nervous system improves mental acuity because when we are not in a stress state, our brain is free to create, think, and connect,” he explains. Simply staying busy or joining more activities, however, does not guarantee regulation. “Participation alone does not regulate the nervous system. Authentic connection does,” Marcus says. Groups that prioritize genuine interaction foster neurogenesis, strengthen the prefrontal cortex, and lower stress load. “When people feel safe, they become more engaged, creative, and resilient.” Marcus emphasizes that stress itself is not the enemy. “Most chronic stress does not come from events themselves. It comes from facing those events without support,” he explains. Balanced stress, when resolved, builds capacity. Stress without resolution does the opposite. This distinction becomes critical when considering long term health. “One of the most important preventive health strategies is lowering allostatic load,” Marcus says. “Allostatic load predicts aging outcomes more reliably than chronological age.” Chronic stress contributes to inflammation, which Marcus identifies as a major driver of disease. “Stress creates inflammation in the body. Acute inflammation is healthy and adaptive, but chronic inflammation is destructive,” he explains. Over time, this inflammation affects not only the body but also the brain, contributing to cognitive decline. Unprocessed emotions further compound the issue. “They do not disappear,” Marcus says. “They are stored in the body, particularly in the fascia.” This physical tension mirrors emotional rigidity, reducing flexibility in both thought and behavior. Releasing chronic tension through body-based awareness and movement can restore adaptability on multiple levels. Ultimately, Marcus argues that successful resolutions are less about self-improvement and more about self-regulation. Emotional resilience is not reserved for a select few. It is a biological skill that can be trained. “When resolutions are built on this foundation, progress becomes sustainable rather than exhausting,” he says. Relationships deepen, stress becomes manageable, and health is supported from the inside out. By focusing on emotional resilience, people do not just keep their resolutions. They create a framework for long term vitality, clarity, and connection that lasts far beyond the start of the year. Merilee Kern, MBA Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. As Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee is a prolific business, lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker. She keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at: www.TheLuxeList.com / Instagram: www.Instagram.com/MerileeKern / Twitter: www.Twitter.com/MerileeKern / Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial / LinkedIN: www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern . ***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.*** Previous Next

Forbidden Broadway: The Next Generation Presented By The City Of Aventura Fri Jun 09 2023 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Medicare In Your Future? A Comprehensive Guide To Getting Started Thu Sep 19 2024 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Pets of The Week Thu Jul 29 2021 04:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Changing The Future: City of Hallandale Beach Adopts Their First Climate Action Plan By Alyssa Jones Wood - Hallandale Beach Sustainability & Resiliency Officer September 9, 2021 Share Left to right: Dr. Jeremy Earle (Hallandale Beach City Manager), Alyssa Jones Wood (Sustainability & Resiliency Officer), and Noemy Sandoval (Assistant City Manager). Standing in front of three of the City’s four electric vehicles in their fleet. As they purchase and/or replace vehicles in the city’s light-duty administrative fleet, they’re selecting electric vehicles to reduce emissions and costs. This month, the City of Hallandale Beach City Commission made history with the adoption of the City’s first Climate Action Plan, approved on a 3-0 vote. With a commitment to climate equity, the Plan includes 54 strategies for reducing the City of Hallandale Beach’s greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and improving quality of life. The plan serves as a pathway to reduce emissions 50% by 2030, the first step in City’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. “The City of Hallandale Beach has committed to being an active part of the solution in terms of taking the steps to reducing our emissions, embracing sustainability, and bringing climate change and its impact on people to the forefront of our decision making process”, said City Manager Dr. Jeremy Earle "I'm proud of Hallandale Beach for adopting the 50by30 Climate Action Plan. Our city acknowledges the peril our future is in if we don't drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions to build a sustainable world for the next generations to come. We've already experienced serious, tangible impacts from climate change that our residents have suffered through. I look forward to working hand in hand with partners to implement the 54 actions recommended in this visionary, community focused Climate Change Action Plan." Commissioner Sabrina Javellana The Plan was developed with an extensive public engagement process which lasted approximately a year and involved more than 450 individuals. City staff collected public input in the form of an online survey, a 24/7 webpage available in multiple languages, and a public meeting. “I know the detriment that flooding can cause because of inclement weather & because of climate change. Climate Change is not only a threat to structural engineering obviously, but it has a definite impact on social interaction, on communities… it has a social consequence. There are intersections with climate change and health and human services, and these are the things we have to look at,” said Darcell Streeter, member of the City’s Sustainability & Flood Mitigation Advisory Board. Actions in the Plan span from establishing building performance standards/benchmarking to strategically planting trees in area of the City which suffer most from the urban heat island effect. Actions are separated into “Action Pathways” which correspond both with sectors of the community which emit the most greenhouse gasses and also quality of life improvements that the community suggested. Almost every action has an associated equity consideration to ensure that the actions taken equitably distribute benefits and avoid or correct for potential burdens. “I’m thrilled with the work that we’ve done and am so happy to see this adopted tonight”, said Vice Mayor Butler. “After over a year in development, I’m excited to see the actions in our Climate Action Plan coming to light. We’re going to hit the ground running,” said Alyssa Jones Wood, the City’s Sustainability & Resiliency Officer. The full 50by30: Hallandale Beach’s Climate Action Plan can be found at www.cohb.org/50by30 The Plan itself is accompanied by a “How can you support the Climate Action Plan” handout for residents, business owners, and activists which can be found at www.cohb.org/MyClimateAction About the City of Hallandale Beach The City of Hallandale Beach is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of the community in a fiscally responsible manner by providing superior services that meet the needs of our community as well as plan for their future needs through continued communication. www.cohb.org < Previous News Next News >

Hollywood Florida Film Festival Returns For Its 9th Edition With 97 Selected Films, Global Judges, And Glamorous Red-Carpet Events South Florida Sun Times Aug 27, 2025 The 9th Annual Hollywood Florida Film Festival Will Take Place From Friday, September 5th, 2025 – Sunday, September 7th, 2025, Welcoming Filmmakers, Artists, And Fashion Icons From Around The World For A Three-Day Celebration Of Cinema, Culture, And Creativity. This Year’s Edition Will Include An Outstanding 97 Selected Films From Across The Globe, Spanning Narratives, Documentaries, Shorts, Student Films, Alongside Over 30 Florida-Based Productions That Showcase The Region’s Thriving Creative Scene. We’ll Continue Our Mission To Support And Empower The Local Talent And To Spotlight Our Community As A Key Destination For Film, Drawing In New Creators To Collaborate And Grow With Us! Screenings & Events Venues • The Red-Carpet Opening Night Gala is Friday, September 5th and Closing Night Awards Ceremony will be Sunday, September 7th and will be hosted at the luxurious The Park – Weston Bonaventure in Weston, Florida, a premier event space with serene lakeside views perfect for a cinematic celebration. • Film screenings will take place at the renowned Cinema Paradiso in Downtown Hollywood, running Friday morning, September 5th and all-day Saturday, September 6th, featuring international showcases, filmmaker Q&As, and curated blocks. Tickets and passes are live exclusively on FilmFreeway: https://filmfreeway.com/HollywoodFloridaFilmFestival/tickets Community, Partners & Supporters The 2025 festival is brought to life through the generous support of our valued sponsors and collaborators: H&M Development, Locality Bank, Broward County & Film Lauderdale, as community partners, Cinema Paradiso, The Park Bonaventure, Trailblazer Queen Productions, May One, Tadan Produzione, SSD Mag, Celebritime, Qwesty, Rooted Connections, Matteo’s, ETARU Restaurant, Rebel & Freak, Alexa Dumitru, B&B Capital and so many more. International Judging Panel Our panel of international judges will evaluate the 9th competition lineup. Ioanina Pavel: Rose from freelance translator of scripts for United Kingdom Commissioners, to Head of Original Production at HBO Romania, to then co-founding May One, the production company known for its 2025 Netflix debut series SUBTERAN that hit #5 globally. Federica Alderighi: From Rome to the world’s stage, Federica is an Italian screenwriter, author, and producer (Tadan Produzioni). She is also the visionary behind the Moscerine Film Festival, the world’s first international festival dedicated to short films created by children under 12. Madalina Bellariu: Actress & producer with an international career in film and TV. She is known for her role in HBO's The Young Pope, starring alongside Jude Law and Diane Keaton. Madalina won Best Actress at the Milan International Film Festival for her role in Bad Wings. Live Performance & Fashion Presentations The Opening Night Gala will feature a special live opera performance by Haojin No, previous Florida Grand Opera canto singer, adding sophistication and grandeur to the festival’s launch. In a unique intersection of film and fashion, two internationally acclaimed designers will present exclusive collections on the red carpet: • Alexa Dumitru (New York, USA) is the designer behind W.A.S. Studio, redefining contemporary fashion with her bold use of natural fibers, meticulous craftsmanship, and visionary storytelling. From NY Fashion Week to showing at Yankee Stadium, her work captures both precision and emotion, offering timeless pieces that resonate on and off the runway. • Jane of Rebel & Freak (Switzerland) is known for its bold, sustainable creations made from recycled materials – including clothing made from car tires, proudly worn on red carpets in Switzerland, Germany, Los Angeles, and Cannes Film festival. “This 9th edition is our most diverse and vibrant celebration of cinema yet,” said Simona Muresan, Co-Founder & Festival Director. “From our stunning lakeside venue to an unforgettable lineup of films and fashion, this is a weekend not to miss.” Previous Next

Aventura Branch Library Happenings - LEGO At The Library, Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group, Falun Gong Meditation And Exercise & Much More Aventura Digest Sep 17, 2026 The Aventura Branch Library Has A Wide Variety Of On-line And In-Person Events. There Will Be LEGO At The Library, Sing-along Mondays, Falun Gong Meditation And Exercise And Much More. Some Events May Require You To RSVP, So, Please Go On-Line To Register At: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura - Or For More Information Prior To Attending The Event, Call: (305) 931-5512. LEGO At The Library: Thursday, September 24th, 2026 - 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Bring your creativity and have fun building with LEGO blocks! Adult supervision recommended for younger children. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 12 years old. Homework Help And Tutoring: Saturday, September 26th, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Certified teachers meet with small groups of students in one-hour sessions to provide Homework Help and Tutoring in Reading, Math, and Science. Students are encouraged to bring homework material or school assignments for assistance in specific subject areas. This free service is available to all students in grades K-12. For more information, contact: tutoring@mdpls.org. Call: (305) 375-1413. Or visit: www.mdpls.org/tutor . Funded in part by The Children's Trust. Applause For Words - A Workshop For Writers: Saturday, September 26th, 2026 - 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Conference Room Join us for this bi-monthly workshop designed for anyone interested in writing fiction or non-fiction with the hope of one day publishing their work! Facilitated by Author Elaine B. Johnson, each session will provide a safe and fun environment for participants to learn about the process of becoming a successful writer. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Introduction To Computers: Saturday, September 26th, 2026 & Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 - 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Learn the basics of computers, including how to use a mouse and keyboard, write in a Word document, browse the internet, use email and more! Taught by instructors from Collective Sistahood. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Talking Is Teaching - Talk, Read, Sing For Toddlers And Preschoolers - With Commissioner Micky Steinberg, District 4: Monday, September 28th, 2026 - 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Join us for stories, songs and activities for toddlers, preschoolers and their caregivers. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 18 months - 5 years old. Chess Club: Monday, September 28th, 2026 & Monday, October 5th, 2026 - 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sharpen your Chess skills by playing with others! Fun for beginners and more advanced players alike. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 8 years old and up. Falun Gong Meditation and Exercise Wednesday, September 30th, 2026 & Wednesday, October 7th, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Join us online or in person to learn Falun Gong, an ancient, high-level Chinese practice that uses gentle movements and meditation to cultivate the body, mind and spirit. Registration is required for online participants. Zoom Link will be emailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Color Me Happy: Thursday, October 1st, 2026 - 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Join us for fun and simple coloring activities. Materials will be provided. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 years old and up. Homework Help And Tutoring: Saturday, October 3rd, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Certified teachers meet with small groups of students in one-hour sessions to provide Homework Help and Tutoring in Reading, Math, and Science. Students are encouraged to bring Homework Material or School Assignments for assistance in specific subject areas. This free service is available to all students in grades K-12. For more information, contact: tutoring@mdpls.org . Call: (305) 375-1413. Or visit: www.mdpls.org/tutor . Funded in part by The Children's Trust. Literary Discussions - Where Words Meet Thought: Tuesday, October 6th, 2026 - 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Join Dr. Lillian Schanfield, Professor Emerita of English at Barry University, in a discussion group for readers who love words, ideas and the art of expression. Each session focuses on a short literary work or passage (fiction, poetry, or drama), or a topic related to language. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Blood Pressure Screenings: Thursday, October 8th, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Free Blood Pressure Screening offered by the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group - Presented By The Alzheimer's Association: Thursday, October 8th, 2026 - 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Build a support system with others who understand your journey as a caregiver to a loved one with Dementia. Join this Alzheimer's support group to exchange information on challenges, possible solutions, coping strategies and available community resources. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years old and up. Switch Party - Video Games For Kids & Teens: Thursday, October 8th, 2026 - 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Relax and have fun playing video games. Play solo or with a friend. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 18 years old. Some of the above events are On-line. To register, go to: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura For more information, feel free to contact the Aventura Branch At: (305) 931-5512. The Aventura Branch Library is located at 2930 Aventura Boulevard, Aventura, Florida 33180. Previous Next

Sparkling Substitutes: 7 Champagne Swaps Worth Toasting By Merilee Kern, MBA Jul 30, 2025 Champagne has long been the essential toast of holidays and other special occasions, but the landscape of sparkling wine is evolving. Today’s breed of bubbles offers an exciting range of choices from nearly every corner of the wine-producing world. Regions across the globe are proving they can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world-famous fizz, offering exciting alternatives for wine lovers ready to expand their horizons. And, as people's tastes shift, so do their preferences for flavor profiles, sweetness levels and production methods, there are more new styles to discover as alternatives to Champagne. “Champagne is often enjoyed for its multi-layered aromas of fruit and brioche, finishing with a searing and elegant acidity,” notes Peter Douglas, DipWSET, a vinicultural expert with the "VinoVoss" AI Sommelier smartphone app and web-based semantic wine search and recommendation system perfecting wine discovery. “Yet, not all sparkling wines meet these lofty criteria, and some remarkable options exist that may surprise your palate and your wallet.” Below, Douglas outlines 7 Champagne swaps that are sure to tantalize your tastebuds. Corpinnat and Cava It's rare to see Cava and its innovative offshoot, Corpinnat, mentioned together, but these two Spanish sparkling wines share a commitment to quality. Corpinnat represents a collective of small, independent organic wineries that have opted out of the official Spanish quality hierarchy to craft sparkling wines that reflect their unique philosophies and practices. What sets Corpinnat apart from Cava is its stringent requirement that grapes must come from owned organic vineyards and be vinified on the winery's premises. Each bottle must mature for a minimum of 18 months, surpassing Champagne's minimum requirement by six months. Many producers opt for extended aging, with some wines maturing for 60 months or longer. This extended bottle maturation allows the wines to evolve from fresh fruity aromas into complex nutty and bread-like flavors, enriching the overall tasting experience. In contrast, Cava, while often perceived as more industrial, can also produce exceptional wines. Major producers like Freixenet and Codorniu dominate the market, leaving smaller-scale artisans with limited exposure. Like Corpinnat, Cava is primarily based on the indigenous grapes Xarel-lo, Macabeo, and Parellada, which deliver a delicate, fruity profile with a light body. The German and Austrian Powerhouses Cool climates are renowned for producing wines with vibrant acidity—the backbone of sparkling wine. This principle underpins the German and Austrian passion for their sparkling creation, known as Sekt. In these countries, Riesling often takes center stage, although you may also encounter Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other varietals that can rival high-end Champagnes. Germany and Austria pride themselves on their quality sparkling wines. Austria has recently launched a new Charta, establishing a hierarchy for “Sekt Austria.” This pyramid includes “Grosse Reserve” (big reserve), “Reserve,” and the foundational “Sekt Austria” quality, with aging requirements ranging from a minimum of 6 months on the lees to at least 36 months for the highest tier. This commitment to quality has garnered increased interest from both tourists and consumers alike, prompting Austria to appoint Andreas Vitasek as their new sparkling wine ambassador. When exploring German Sekt, focus on renowned regions like Mosel, Rheingau, and Rheinhessen. Notable producers include Kallfelz, Barth, and Raumland. In Austria, look for high-end offerings from Bründlmayer, Loimer, and Domäne Wachau. Crémant de Bourgogne If you prefer to stay in France, consider heading south to Bourgogne. The region primarily produces sparkling wines from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with Aligoté providing a refreshing exception. Crémant de Bourgogne offers a lighter, fruit-driven experience, illustrating a frothy texture that dances on the palate—an excellent alternative to its more famous cousin. Cartizze: Prosecco's Crown Jewel In the northern Italian region of Veneto, the hill of Cartizze stands as Prosecco's most revered site. Officially classified in 1969, its reputation as an exceptional origin stretches back more than two centuries. Rising to 350 meters (1,150 feet) above sea level, Cartizze encompasses just 108 hectares (280 acres). With land prices exceeding 1 million Euros per hectare, it rivals the world's most expensive vineyard sites, including those in Burgundy. Ownership rarely changes hands, with plots typically passed down through families, underscoring the value placed on this unique terroir. The slopes of Cartizze are so steep that vineyard work must be done entirely by hand. In some areas, workers use sledges to transport grapes and tools, their efforts evoking comparisons to mountaineering. This challenging terroir, combined with the elevation and a predominance of old vines, produces Prosecco of remarkable intensity and character. Most wines from Cartizze are crafted in a ‘dry' style, leaving a touch of residual sugar. This subtle sweetness enhances the vibrant fruitiness, while the crisp acidity keeps the wine beautifully balanced. The result is a Prosecco of elegance and finesse, ideal for those looking to celebrate with something truly special. Moscato d'Asti: The Sweet Charm of Piedmont In the heart of Piedmont, a region famed for Nebbiolo's brooding intensity and wines like Barolo and Barbaresco, Moscato d'Asti offers a gentler, more unassuming charm. Made from the highly aromatic Muscat grape, this sparkling sweet wine is often overlooked in favor of its more prestigious neighbors but has a unique role in the region's vinous identity. The defining features of Moscato d'Asti are its fragrant sweetness, low alcohol, and gentle spritz. This combination allows producers to fully explore the grape's potential, highlighting its characteristic notes of orange blossom, ripe apricot, and honeyed peach. At just 5.5–7% ABV, it provides a light and refreshing contrast to the weightier wines often associated with Piedmont. Its flexibility at the table is a key strength. Moscato d'Asti can elevate desserts like white chocolate and candied fruits or pair beautifully with creamy and blue cheeses. For some, it even becomes the dessert, offering a delicately sweet conclusion to a meal without overwhelming the palate. Cap Classique: South Africa's Sparkling Star For those who find Italian fruitiness is too exuberant, South Africa's Cap Classique offers an elegant alternative. Introduced as a defined style in 1971, this sparkling wine is crafted in the traditional method, involving a secondary fermentation in the bottle. While the classification is relatively modern, the South African tradition of producing sparkling wines dates back over 360 years, firmly rooted in the country's winemaking history. Cap Classique spends a minimum of 15 months on the lees, allowing delicate notes of brioche and hazelnut to develop. However, the hallmark of South African sparkling wine remains its bright, fruit-driven profile, often leaning into flavors of citrus, stone fruit, and even tropical notes, rather than the pronounced toastiness typical of Champagne. Today, Cap Classique has earned its place among the world's finest sparkling wines. Its ability to balance value and quality makes it an appealing choice for celebrations, offering a distinctive South African character without pretension. Whether as a centerpiece for an event or an unassuming companion to the moment, it stands ready to impress. Tasmania: A Sparkling Island of Innovation Tasmania, Australia's southernmost state, lies around 150 miles (240 kilometers) south of the mainland, separated by the often-turbulent Bass Strait. Known for its pristine wilderness and cool climate, it is the nation's most southerly and coolest wine region, home to a scattering of nearly 1,000 offshore islands. This remoteness has shaped its identity as a haven for eco-tourism and, increasingly, as a center for world-class sparkling wine. The island's wine industry is small but tightly focused, with producers working collaboratively and sustainably. Biosecurity is paramount, and tourists are often barred from entering vineyards to prevent soil-borne pests or diseases inadvertently carried on footwear. Inter-planting with native vegetation, allowing certain ‘weeds' to flourish, and preserving wildlife corridors reflect Tasmania's dedication to environmental harmony. Tasmania's cool climate is particularly suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the cornerstone varieties of its sparkling wines. These wines are defined by their vivid fruit intensity, bracing acidity, and, in many cases, the nuanced autolytic complexity of toast and brioche. The sparkling wines often rival the quality of Champagne, though with a distinctive freshness and clarity born of the island's maritime influence and clean air. Despite its small scale, Tasmanian sparkling wine is increasingly found on the shelves of fine wine retailers and the wine lists of high-end restaurants across the globe. Its ability to combine precision, elegance, and sustainability ensures Tasmania's place among the leading sparkling wine regions of the world. Emerging Regions Beyond the traditional producers, numerous up-and-coming regions are crafting outstanding sparkling wines. The United Kingdom, Argentina, and cooler areas of California are all making their mark in the sparkling wine scene, offering fresh and innovative options for consumers looking to diversify their celebratory toast. “Champagne will long-remain a classic, of course, but it no longer holds an exclusive claim as the ‘must-have’ sparkling wine for holidays and other special occasions,” Douglas asserts. While this iconic bubbly is a favorite celebratory beverage for many, the world of wine offers a range of exciting alternatives that deserve due attention.” I’ll toast to that. Previous Next

Disney On Ice Presents Mickey's Search Party Brings The Magic South Florida Sun Times Jan 7, 2026 Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party bringing the magic to guests through dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air. This adventure delivers compelling storytelling through multi-leveled production numbers so be prepared to join this magical search and help unlock an epic journey when Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party delivers an unforgettable experience at Amerant Bank Arena from Thursday, March 19th, 2026 - Sunday, March 22nd, 2026. Disney On Ice Preferred Customers were able to purchase advance tickets to get the best seats available before tickets went on-sale to the general public on Tuesday, November 11th. Fans can still sign up to become a Disney On Ice Preferred Customer and get exclusive access to the pre-sale offer code. Join Mickey Mouse and his friends at Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, an adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts! Look for clues in the search for Tinker Bell through immersive, fantastic worlds. Explore the colorful spirit realm of Coco, sail away with Moana as she bravely saves her island, see Belle in the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life, and sing along with Elsa in the icy world of Frozen. Watch Stitch crash the action with mischievous surprises. Make memories during Aladdin, Toy Story and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out celebration! Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic. Journey across the Marigold Bridge with Miguel from Disney Pixar’s Coco into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead and discover a vibrantly colorful performance with skeletons atop sway poles dancing over the audience in a beautiful cultural celebration of family. Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and sing along with Elsa as video projection creates a kaleidoscope of crystals to help build her ice palace. Witness Belle lift into the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life high over the ice. Demonstrate the power of teamwork when Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie recruit the Green Army Men for a daring rescue in Andy’s room. Laugh hysterically as the hilarious pirates flip, tumble and twist on tumble tracks, stilts and more to showcase their talents for Captain Hook. Sail away with Moana on her daring voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka. Click here to view Mickey's Search Party Show Trailer When: Thursday, March 19th, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. Friday, March 20th, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. Saturday, March 21st, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. Sunday, March 22nd, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. Where: Amerant Bank Arena – One Panther Parkway, Sunrise, Florida 33323 Tickets: Tickets now available for purchase online at: www.SeatGeek.com or in-person at the venue box office. It’s easier than ever to experience the Disney magic. With a variety of family-friendly ticket pricing options, choose what fits best for an enchanted experience. *Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand. For local Sunrise event information, please visit: https://www.disneyonice.com/mickeys-search-party/sunrise-fl-amerant-bank-arena Follow Disney On Ice’s Social Media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, & TikTok. Subscribe to the Disney On Ice YouTube Channel at: www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce About Feld Entertainment: Feld Entertainment®, family owned and operated, is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, Monster Jam®, Disney On Ice, Monster Energy AMA Supercross, and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 80 countries and on six continents. For more information, visit: www.feldentertainment.com . Previous Next

The Fire Isn't Out Yet By Rabbi Moishe Kievman Chabad Chayil Jul 16, 2026 The Jewish People Have Endured Exile, Persecution, Expulsions And Countless Attempts To Erase Us. Yet We Are Still Here. Jews have built lives in America and throughout the free world, yet we have never stopped turning our hearts toward Israel and its eternal capital, Jerusalem. Not just in the past 3 years. And not just since 1948. But for the past 3,298 years, ever since Israel became the official homeland of the Jewish people. And even before that, for nearly 3,800, since G-d promised that land to Abraham… We pray facing Jerusalem. We end our weddings by breaking a glass in remembrance of the Temple. And we conclude every Passover Seder with the words "Next Year in Jerusalem." We never forgot. And because we never forgot, we never gave up hope. Legend has it that Napoleon, the great French leader, was once passing through a small town in Europe, when he heard weeping. Wanting to know what was going on, he followed the sound to inside a building, where he found men, women and children sitting on low chairs & benches, crying. The building was a synagogue and the room which had a magnificent candelabra chandelier at its center, had only a few candles lit. Bothered by the scene and wanting an explanation, Napoleon inquired about the reason for their sadness. They explained that they were mourning for the destruction of the temple. At that point Napoleon became very angered that people would have the audacity to harm the Temple of such good people, and inquired further to where the damage was, as whatever parts he saw still looked intact. No, they explained. "We're mourning for the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, the Beit Hamikdash, that was destroyed by Rome over 1,700 years ago. Once a year on Tisha B'Av - the 9th day on the Jewish month of Av, we get together to read the Book of Lamentations and mourn the Temple's destruction while praying that we very soon merit its rebuilding." To this Napoleon responded, "A people that remembers the destruction of their land and temple after so many hundreds of years, will surely witness its rebuilding." Tisha B'Av was actually the day that both Temples were destroyed. The First Temple built by King Solomon was destroyed by the Babylonians (modern day Iraq) in 3338 (423 BCE). After completing the building of the Second Temple in 3412 (349 BCE), it too was destroyed on the 9th of Av, this time by the Romans in 3829 (69 CE). That was also the day on which the Jews were expelled from Spain in 5252 (1492 CE), the start of World War I in 5674 (1914 CE) and the Gush Katif expulsion in 5765 (2005 CE). If you were to witness any such atrocity, how would you respond? What would you say? What would you do? The Talmud tells us that although the Babylonians & Romans did the dirty work, it was actually the will of G-d, due to the people not behaving in a loving way one to another. Furthermore the Talmud tells us that as long as the Temple is not rebuilt in our time, it's as if it was destroyed in our time! In other words, since we still don't have the Temple rebuilt, it's as if it is being destroyed in front of our very eyes! We are witnesses to those horrific atrocities! Help! The fire isn't out yet!! The good news is that we know what to do to put the fire out. By acting in kind ways to one another, by loving thy neighbor, by simply being good people, we will surely see the Third Temple built in a peaceful Jerusalem. Ah! If we would only merit to enjoy it, this year in Jerusalem! To learn more about Tisha B'Av, see: www.ChabadChayil.org/TishaBAv This year Tisha B'Av begins Wednesday night, July 22nd, 2026 at sundown and ends Thursday night, July 23rd, 2026 at nightfall. I encourage you to participate in services at your local Chabad or Synagogue. You can of course join me at The Family Shul, temporarily located right behind 2601 Northeast 211 Terrace, Miami, Florida 33180. Since COVID-19, we have been making our services available each day during the week virtually. Our services are broadcasted live each weekday morning at 9:00 a.m. and evenings 10 minutes before sundown on YouTube at: www.youtube.com/ChabadChayil . And on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ChabadChayilPage . The full schedule is available at: TheFamilyShul.com . Or: (305) 770-1919. Plan B* Schedule: Wednesday, July 22nd, 2026 9:00 a.m. - Shacharit Services 6:00 p.m. - Early Mincha 8:12 p.m. - Fast Begins 8:45 p.m. - Maariv followed by Aicha (Lamentations) Thursday, July 23rd, 2026 9:00 a.m. - Slow Shacharit followed by Kinus until midday (1:26pm) 1:25 p.m. - Midday (Can sit on regular chairs..) 4:00 p.m. - Virtual Tour of the Beis Hamikdash built by Herold & King David's Palace 5:00 p.m. - Film TBA 7:00 p.m. - Mincha Services with Tallit & Tefillin 8:30 p.m. - Fast Ends 8:31 p.m. - Break Fast (in memory of Mrs. Gloria Sobel z'l) *Plan A is that Moshiach come. We have the Third Beit Hamikdash. And instead of fasting we have feasting! For exact Halachik times calculated for South Florida for any day of the year, see: www.ChabadChayil.org/Zmanim . For this holiday specifically, see: www.ChabadChayil.org/TishaBAv . About the Author: Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, your local CTeen & CKids chapters, CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools and direct Chabad Chayil. He’s the Rabbi at The Family Shul and can be reached at: (305) 770-1919. Or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org . Previous Next

The International Spanish-Language Comedy Festival, “Miami Es Un Chiste” Aventura Digest May 20, 2026 The International Spanish-Language Comedy Festival, “Miami Es Un Chiste” (“Miami Is A Joke”), Is Set To Bring Laughter To The Miami Improv At Cityplace Doral This Spring, Positioning The State Of Florida As The Capital Of Latino Comedy. Featuring 30 Shows And 55 Of The Most Recognized Comedians From Latin America And Spain, The Festival Will Take Place From Thursday, May 21st, 2026 To Sunday, May 31st, 2026. More than a festival, “Miami es un Chiste” is a platform for cultural connection that brings together artists, creators, industry professionals and multicultural audiences. Programming includes stand up performances, live podcasts and sketches reflecting the diversity of styles, accents and perspectives that define contemporary Latino humor. Blending sharp political satire, cultural storytelling, female perspectives and universal humor, these comedians connect with audiences across cultures and generations. From stand-up stages to digital platforms, they are shaping what it means to be Latino today, using comedy to celebrate identity, challenge stereotypes and build community. The lineup includes: • Argentina: Laila Roth, Florencia Rizzo, Lucas Lauriente • Brazil: Fabio Rabin • Chile: Fabrizio Copano • Colombia: Pamela Ospina, Silvia de Frente, Juan Cajiao • Costa Rica: Stephan Dyer • Cuba: Bonco Quinongo, Rami Cuba, El Manu, Ailin Gonzalez, Alberto Rojas, Carlos Hernandez • Dominican Republic: Patricia Pena, Ariel Santana, El Pio RD, Starlyn Ramirez, Elias Serulle, Splou, Tiby Camacho • Guatemala: Tarek Turjman • Mexico: Alexis de Anda • Peru: Jaime Ferraro • Puerto Rico: Titito Sanchez, Cristina Sanchez, Erick Bonilla, Ernesto Rolon, Kiko Blade • Spain: Galder Varas, David Cepo • United States: Paul Elia Venezuela: Nanutria, Kabeto, Luis Chataing, Led Varela, Francisco Ramos, Abelardo, Neisser, Daniel Pistola, Yxa Fuentes, Edmary Fuentes, Heli Arraga, Wasmo Huerta, Adelmo Gauna, Michelle Dernersissian, Lui Vizcaya, Alex Goncalves, Daniel Trujillo, Ron Chávez, Milton Granadillo. As part of its Miami programming, the festival will present, for the first time, a fully English- language show featuring Fabio Rabin, Francisco Ramos, Paul Elia, Carlos Hernandez and special guest Milton Granadillo, which expands the festival’s reach to new audiences. Miami Improv Comedy Club at CityPlace Doral 3450 Northwest 83rd Avenue, Suite#: 224, Doral, Florida 33122 Ticket Prices: From $33 to $66 Available at: www.MiamiesunChiste.com Ages: 21 + The full line up and tickets are available at: www.MiamiEsUnChiste.com . Fabrizio Copano Alexis De Anda Carlos Hernandez Laila Roth Sylvia De Frente Stephan Dyer Previous Next