Common AI Travel Scams & How To Avoid Them South Florida Sun Times Aug 13, 2025 It’s An Unfortunate Truth That The Travel Industry Has Always Been A Prime Target For Scammers. And With The Rapid Advancement Of AI Technology, Con Artists Have Found New, More Sophisticated Ways To Deceive Unsuspecting Travelers. Through The Use Of AI, Scammers Are Now Able To Create Highly Convincing Fake Travel Booking Websites, Phishing Emails, And Even Voice Impersonations, All Designed To Steal Travelers’ Personal And Financial Information. If you are planning an upcoming trip, it’s crucial to understand the latest AI-powered travel scams and how to protect yourself. As the Chief Information Officer at SlickTrip (a platform that instantly compares top travel sites and alerts of flight price drops), I have seen firsthand how rapidly these scams are evolving and how much they can wreak havoc on travelers’ lives. Below are 4 of the most common AI-driven threats targeting travelers today, the red flags to watch for, and what to do if you find yourself caught in one. AI-Generated Deepfake Customer Service Agents One of the most alarming scams is the use of AI-generated voices to create deepfake customer service representatives. Scammers use advanced voice synthesis to mimic the voices of real airline or hotel employees. They call unsuspecting travelers posing as legitimate customer support agents, often using publicly available information or previous data breaches to make their calls seem authentic. The goal? To trick travelers into divulging sensitive information such as booking references, credit card numbers, or even login credentials to loyalty programs. Because these AI voices sound incredibly realistic, many victims do not suspect a thing until it’s too late. To protect yourself, first always verify the caller’s identity by asking for their official employee ID or calling back through official contact numbers found on verified websites. Also, never share payment information or passwords over the phone unless you initiated the call and are certain of the recipient’s identity. Finally, use two-factor authentication (2FA) on your travel and payment accounts to add an extra layer of security. AI-Generated Phishing Emails Mimicking Booking Confirmations Email phishing attacks have become much more sophisticated with the help of AI. For example, scammers now use AI to generate emails that are almost indistinguishable from legitimate booking confirmations or notifications from airlines, hotels, or travel agencies. These emails can include the company’s actual logos, brand colors, and writing styles, making them seem incredibly trustworthy at a glance. However, they contain malicious links or attachments designed to steal your credit card details, install malware on your device, and more. To prevent an AI-generated phishing email scam, there are several main warning signs to keep in mind. First, look out for any slight grammatical errors or sentences that are phrased awkwardly in an email or SMS message, even if the rest of the message looks polished. Legitimate emails and messages from real travel booking companies will be free of these kinds of errors. Another red flag is a request to click on links or download attachments unexpectedly. On top of this, another red flag is the email urging immediate action or threatening consequences to provoke a quick, unthinking response. To stay safe from these kinds of scams, make sure to cross-check booking details by logging into the airline or hotel’s official website directly, rather than clicking links in an email. Also, hover over links to verify the URL before clicking. Does it lead to the company’s real domain? If not, it can be a scam. Finally, use email spam filters and security software to detect phishing attempts. Fake Booking Websites Created by AI One widespread AI-enabled scam in the travel industry is the creation of fake booking websites for hotels, car rentals, flights, and travel packages. By leveraging AI, con artists can quickly build and launch these sites with realistic images, reviews, and pricing designed to lure travelers into making bookings. These websites look so professional and convincing that many travelers believe they’re legitimate. And once payment is made, the scammer disappears with the money, leaving the traveler without a reservation or any way to contact customer service. To avoid falling victim to a fake booking website, first ensure that you always book directly through well-known official websites or trusted travel platforms. Also, double-check the website URL for minor misspellings or unusual domain names. For example, a fake website might end in .net instead of .com. Also, look for secure connections (https://) and trust seals, but be aware these can sometimes be faked. As an added precaution, search for reviews or complaints about the website on independent forums or consumer review sites. AI-Generated WhatsApp or SMS “Urgent Alerts” Travelers are also being targeted via AI-generated text messages sent through WhatsApp, SMS, or other messaging platforms. These messages appear to be urgent airline or travel updates, such as flight delays, cancellations, or gate changes. Scammers use these fake alerts to trick travelers into clicking on malicious links that can lead to phishing sites or malware downloads. And because these alerts create a sense of urgency, travelers may act without thinking, which puts their sensitive information or devices at risk.To prevent this scam, first look out for unexpected messages from unknown numbers or contacts. Also, check to see if the messages contain spelling mistakes or awkward phrasing. It is also a scam if a link in the message does not lead to the official airline or travel company’s site. Avoid clicking on any links in messages unless you are certain of the sender’s authenticity. Make sure to also verify any urgent travel information directly on the airline’s official app or website. Finally, enable message filtering on your phone to block spam or suspicious messages. What Red Flags Should Consumers Watch For? Spotting scams early can save you a lot of trouble. As stated above, one key warning sign to be alert for is grammatical errors or awkward phrasing in a message. Even if the email or message looks polished, small mistakes can indicate a scam. It is also a scam if you are faced with unusual payment requests. For example, are you asked to pay via gift cards, direct bank transfers, or cryptocurrency? Legitimate companies won’t ask for payment via these methods. Another big red flag is an inability to verify a booking on the official airline or hotel website after providing confirmation details. Other red flags are chatbots asking for private info too soon. Real companies typically avoid requesting sensitive information through automated chat systems and will connect you to a human agent if needed. Finally, assess whether an email or message is using pressure tactics and urgent language, because Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to rush victims into making mistakes. What Should You Do If You’re Fooled by an AI Travel Scam? The first thing to do is immediately contact your bank to freeze and/or dispute the transactions. It is also important to report the scam to your local consumer protection agency and the FTC (in the U.S.). Filing a report will help protect other travelers, support investigations, and prevent con artists from targeting more victims. Also, make sure to change your passwords if you were tricked into sharing your login credentials for your bank account, email account, etc. I also recommend contacting the real airline/hotel you wanted to book with to alert them of the scam that is taking place and to confirm your actual booking status. After taking these steps, continue to monitor your financial and travel accounts for any unusual activity. Final Thoughts AI technology is a powerful tool that con artists are exploiting in increasingly clever ways to scam travelers. Being aware of common AI scams and practicing preventative habits when booking and communicating can greatly reduce your risk. Always verify information through official channels, protect your personal data, and stay skeptical of unsolicited requests for sensitive information. By staying informed and vigilant, you can help ensure your travel plans go smoothly and avoid falling prey to the growing threat of AI-enabled travel scams. Jeremy Greenburg is the Chief Information Officer at SlickTrip, an online platform that instantly compares top travel sites and alerts you the moment flight prices drop. In his role, Greenburg educates others on travel trends, travel tech innovation, and real-time data systems. Your smart travel companion, SlickTrip helps you never miss out on the best deals on flights. Airline ticket prices can change multiple times a day, but with realtime price alerts, you’ll always stay ahead. Explore flexible flight combinations, spot the cheapest travel dates with colorcoded calendars, and view detailed seat maps to pick the best spot on the plane. Learn more at: https://slicktrip.com/ Previous Next

Silent Tears, The Last Yiddish Tango: A Poignant Commemoration Of Resilience And Survival Wed Oct 18 2023 16:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

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“America 250 Florida” Scratch-Off Game - A Tribute To Freedom, Florida Heritage And America’s 250th Anniversary Aventura Digest Mar 16, 2026 The Florida Lottery Is Proud To Introduce AMERICA 250 FLORIDA, A Special Scratch-Off Game Created To Commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary And Celebrate The Enduring Spirit Of Freedom, Opportunity, And Patriotism That Defines Both Our Nation And The Free State Of Florida. As Florida joins the nation in honoring 250 years of American independence, our state stands as a living testament to the enduring principles of the American Founding: liberty, courage, and the American Dream. From its role as the gateway to the New World during the Age of Exploration, to its importance as a territory and southern frontier of American expansion, to its role as a steward of individual rights and liberty as the Free State of Florida today, the Sunshine State has long embodied the spirit of 1776. AMERICA 250 FLORIDA reflects Florida’s storied heritage, paying tribute to the pioneering spirit and the never-ending thirst for adventure that have defined both America and Florida for generations—and which will continue to make Florida an important part of the space age. Featuring three unique patriotic ticket scenes—“Find Your Own Fountain of Youth,” “Gulf of America,” and “Free State of Florida”—AMERICA 250 FLORIDA highlights Florida‘s unique history and connects it to the American story. Together, these designs remind participants of the state’s past and its enduring commitment to freedom. “AMERICA 250 FLORIDA is more than a game, it’s a celebration of our nation’s history and the opportunities that define the American experience,” said Acting Florida Lottery Secretary Reginald D. Dixon. “This game honors the spirit of perseverance and pride that has shaped our country for 250 years while continuing the Lottery’s mission of supporting education and communities across Florida.” “No other state in the nation is doing more to celebrate America’s founding than Florida,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. “As chair of the America250FL Commission, I am grateful to the Florida Lottery for bringing the America250FL celebration to their scratch-off games which attract millions of players each year.” The game offers classic Scratch-Off excitement with multiplier opportunities and an instant-win $250 prize feature. Players can win up to a $1 Million top prize, with more than 3.9 million winning tickets available statewide and overall odds of winning at 1 in 4.01. Scratch-Off games are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, comprising approximately 74 percent of ticket sales in fiscal year 2024-2025. Additionally, since inception, Scratch-Off games have awarded more than $70.8 Billion in prizes, created 2,475 millionaires, and generated more than $20.98 Billion for the state's Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF). About The Florida Lottery The Florida Lottery is responsible for generating more than $50 Billion to enhance education and sending more than one million students to Florida’s colleges, universities, and technical schools through the Bright Futures Program Scholarship. The Florida Lottery reinvests 99 percent of its revenue into Florida's economy through prize payouts, commissions to more than 13,600 Lottery retailers, and transfers to education. Since 1988, Florida Lottery games have paid over $104.8 Billion in prizes and created more than 4,475 millionaires. For more information, please visit: www.floridalottery.com and be sure to follow the Florida Lottery on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X to stay informed. Previous Next

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Florida Sues President Joe Biden: Attorney General Moody Fights For Our State November 4, 2021 Share Attorney General Moody is demanding the court hold President Biden’s Executive Order as unlawful Following through on a promise to hold President Joe Biden accountable for his unlawful Vaccine Mandate, Attorney General Ashley Moody last week took legal action to stop his egregious federal overreach. Attorney General Moody’s lawsuit seeks an immediate end to the unlawful requirement that Federal Government Contractors ensure that all employees receive a COVID-19 Vaccine. Florida companies, public and private, receive millions of dollars in federal contracts annually and will be negatively impacted by the unlawful requirements. Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “I have never seen such blatant disregard for the Constitution or the laws governing our Country. President Biden does not have the authority to force millions of Americans to receive a shot, nor does he have the ability to punish Florida economically for not abiding by his authoritarian, unlawful and unconstitutional Executive Order. “I promised to challenge this gross abuse of power and to stand up for hardworking Floridians and that is exactly why I am suing this President and his reckless administration. As Attorney General, I have an obligation to defend the rule of law, Florida’s workers and our state against heavy-handed federal overreach.” Governor Ron DeSantis said, “Just months ago Joe Biden was saying that it wouldn’t be appropriate or lawful for the Federal Government to mandate these COVID shots. But now we have somehow gone from 15 days to slow the spread to 3 jabs to keep your job. The Federal Government is exceeding their power and it is important for us to take a stand because in Florida we believe these are choices based on individual circumstances.” Attorney General Moody filed the Complaint for Declaratory and Preliminary and Permanent Injunctive Relief in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. The filing outlines the harm to the state, particularly universities, Space Florida and the Florida Department Of Education—public entities executing important work for the Federal Government financed through Federal Contracts. The complaint outlines the threat to these institutions and the state. Florida and Florida companies should not be forced to comply with arbitrary and capricious mandates enacted through an Executive Order to receive funding. The complaint highlights the lack of historical precedent for this infringement on the autonomy of individual Americans, stating: “Nothing in that statute authorizes such a radical intrusion on the personal autonomy of American workers - especially, as is the case here, when many of those workers are officials of a sovereign state.” Additionally, the filing establishes the unconstitutional nature of the rule by outlining that Congress never provided the President authority to mandate that contractors are ensuring that employees are vaccinated: “Providing the Federal Government with an economic and efficient system for procurement is not a broad enough delegation to impose nationwide social policy that Congress has not separately authorized. Further, the Executive Order is divorced from the practical needs of procurement. It will exclude otherwise competitive bidders, cause contractors to suffer labor shortages, is substantially overbroad in, for example, refusing to account for natural immunity and ignoring the low transmission risk for COVID-19 outdoors.” Attorney General Moody is demanding the court hold President Biden’s Executive Order as unlawful and to issue an injunctive relief to stop the enforcement of the illegal action. To read the complaint, visit: http://myfloridalegal.com/webfiles.nsf/WF/GPEY-C88HXK/$file/complaint.pdf < Previous News Next News >

Beyond Hot Flashes: 5 Things Women Wish Everyone Knew About Menopause By Feature Impact Oct 22, 2026 Menopause Is A Phase Of Life Every Woman Knows Will Come Eventually Yet Few Are Truly Prepared For. Beyond Stereotypical Symptoms Like Hot Flashes And Mood Swings, The Other Realities Of Menopause Can Be Mysterious, Taking Women By Surprise When Their Experiences Differ From Expectations. Rather than being a single event, menopause involves a gradual transition that happens as Estrogen production changes - meaning symptoms can appear and evolve unpredictably. According to a survey commissioned by the National Menopause Foundation, 63% of U.S. women ages 35-54 experienced symptoms they believed may be related to Perimenopause or Menopause, yet nearly half (49%) said they weren't prepared for the changes beforehand. When women and their loved ones understand what they're facing, they can approach this time with patience and compassion, which can make a real difference to the 71% of women who wished the people in their lives understood more about perimenopause or menopause. Consider these five facts to help fill in the menopause knowledge gap. Perimenopause Can Start Years Before Menopause The physiological transition to Menopause can happen up to 10 years before a woman's final menstrual period, although the average length of Perimenopause is about four years. Symptoms may quietly begin in a woman's 30's, 40's or 50's, and what might look like an isolated problem at first - like brain fog, a night of insomnia or an irregular monthly cycle - could be connected to broader hormonal changes. Menopause Is More Than Just "Hot Flashes" Since more than half of women surveyed were already aware of Menopause symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, anxiety and fatigue, these may not take them by surprise. Little-known symptoms are a different story - the majority of respondents didn't anticipate Menopausal issues like rage, inner-ear itching or reduced joint mobility. According to the National Menopause Foundation, women may also experience sleep disturbances, sweating, changes in libido, vaginal dryness, incontinence, weight changes and more. Every woman's experience is unique, so these symptoms could present in different combinations and intensities during Menopausal years or may not appear at all. Talking About Menopause Can Be Difficult Even as women go through these physical and emotional shifts, many struggle to open up about their experiences. In fact, women rank menopause symptoms (17%) more difficult to discuss than hot-button topics like political views (13%), weight (13%) and religious beliefs (10%). However, suffering in silence can lead to feelings of isolation, relationship misunderstandings and hesitation to seek help, which is why 66% of women said the lack of open discussion about Menopause makes the experience worse. Menopause Isn't All Bad News Although this season of life comes with challenges, there are joys to embrace as well. Women navigating midlife can come out the other side with more resilience, emotional awareness and a stronger sense of self. In fact, 44% of women surveyed said their outlook on life became more positive since their transition. What Loved Ones Can Actually Do Menopause is a highly individual experience, but that doesn't mean women have to navigate it alone. Support from partners, families and friends can lift women up during difficult moments, and it can be as simple as taking the time to ask questions, listen and learn about how menopause is affecting their lives. With 30% of women in the U.S. labor force - approximately 15 - 16 million - in the age range corresponding to menopausal transition (ages 45-60), workplaces can also take steps to become more menopause friendly. For more resources to help understand symptoms and discuss the transition with loved ones, visit: https://nationalmenopausefoundation.org . Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Previous Next

Secret Sculptures - 2 Hidden Art Gems In Florida Earn National Recognition South Florida Sun Times Jul 10, 2025 From The Getty Center’s Sun-Soaked Grandeur To The Surreal Spires Of Watts Towers And The Minimalist Monoliths Of Marfa, Texas, America Isn’t Short On Artistic Landmarks That Regularly Grace Instagram Feeds And Coffee Table Books. But Venture A Little Further Off The Map, And You’ll Find A Weirder, Wilder Layer Of Creativity That Rarely Makes The Travel Guides - Installations Born Of Passion, Obsession, And In Some Cases, Fruit. Rivers Art, a premium fine‑art printing provider, surveyed 3,002 art lovers to weigh in on which lesser-known landmarks they most want to experience in person. The result? A kaleidoscope of oddball, awe-inspiring, and deeply local art destinations - each one telling a story of place, purpose, and the strange joy of stumbling upon something unforgettable. The top 10 nationally were as follows: #1. Kakaʻako Street Art, Honolulu, Oʻahu, Hawaii The industrial neighborhood of Kakaʻako has become an open-air gallery, with massive murals and sculptural street art appearing on warehouses, stairwells, and sidewalks. Thanks to POW! WOW! Hawaiʻi, a local branch of the international POW! WOW! Worldwide collective, artists from around the world have added bold, modern layers to the area. Look closely and you’ll spot sculpted birds in flight, mosaic walls, and abstract installations tucked between food trucks and storefronts—urban art that pulses with island energy. #2. Coral Castle, Homestead, Florida Built single-handedly over decades by a Latvian immigrant using hand tools and sheer determination, Coral Castle remains one of Florida’s most mysterious and poetic landmarks. The massive limestone blocks form a whimsical fortress: rocking chairs carved from stone, a sundial, a heart-shaped table. Some say it was built for lost love. Others think it’s just eccentric genius. Either way, it stands quietly defying explanation. #3. Olympic Sculpture Park, Seattle, Washington Stretching from downtown to the water’s edge, Olympic Sculpture Park is a rare piece of public space where art, skyline, and Puget Sound converge. Massive works like Alexander Calder’s Eagle stand boldly against views of the Olympic Mountains, while subtler pieces - rusted steel waves, minimalist benches, native plant installations—draw viewers into quiet contemplation. The park’s layout feels like a slow unfolding: each turn reveals something unexpected. It’s not fenced in or ticketed. It simply exists as part of the city’s breath. #4. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau Wooden Carvings, Big Island, Hawaii At this sacred site on the Kona coast, traditional Hawaiian ki‘i (wooden guardian figures) stand watch over lava rock and tide pools. They’re not art in the Western sense—they’re spiritual protectors, deeply rooted in culture and place. But their forms—weathered, stylized, expressive—are strikingly sculptural. Seen against the black rock and blue sea, they’re haunting reminders that art can be protective, powerful, and alive with meaning. #5. Beale Street Brass Notes Walk of Fame, Memphis, Tennessee Embedded along the sidewalks of historic Beale Street are hundreds of brass music notes, each engraved with the name of a Memphis music legend—everyone from B.B. King to lesser-known blues pioneers. While not sculptures in the traditional sense, these shining inlays form a walking installation that pays tribute to the city’s rhythm and roots. Lit by neon and accompanied by street musicians, the brass notes become more than a monument—they become part of the music still being made. #6. Music Box Village, New Orleans, Louisiana Tucked along the levee in New Orleans’ Bywater neighborhood, the Music Box Village is a sculptural playground of playable shacks and sound sculptures. Created by artist collective New Orleans Airlift, it’s part architectural experiment, part interactive music venue. Visitors can walk through and touch the walls to trigger sounds, or attend performances where musicians turn buildings into instruments. It’s inventive, kinetic, and totally rooted in the city’s creative spirit. #7. Wild Blueberry Land, Columbia Falls, Maine Yes, it’s real. This bright blue geodesic dome off Route 1 doubles as a bakery, shop, and interactive sculpture celebrating the state's blueberry obsession. Surrounded by fruit-themed sculptures, from giant pies to oversized berries, it leans fully into roadside Americana with a wink. The whole thing is homemade, hyper-specific, and full of color—a folk-art fantasia born of fruit and imagination. #8. Cloud Chamber for the Trees and Sky, Raleigh, North Carolina Tucked within a quiet grove in Raleigh’s Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, Cloud Chamber for the Trees and Sky invites visitors into a contemplative space where art and nature converge. Designed by British artist Chris Drury, this earthen, dome-shaped structure functions as a camera obscura. Upon entering, a small aperture in the roof projects the sky, clouds, and surrounding treetops onto the interior walls, creating a live, inverted panorama. This fusion of ancient optical technology and natural elements offers a meditative experience, connecting viewers to the environment in an intimate and ever-changing display. #9. The Whale Bone Arch, Barrow (Utqiaġvik), Alaska Standing at the edge of the Arctic Ocean, the massive whale jawbones forming this arch aren’t part of a traditional sculpture garden, but they hold deep meaning. Raised by Iñupiat whalers, it marks the community’s connection to the land, sea, and subsistence traditions. There’s no sign, no explanation—just the arch, some driftwood benches, and endless ice-blue horizon. It’s stark, poetic, and profoundly tied to the rhythms of life in the far north. #10. Sun Tunnels, Great Basin Desert, Utah Out on the salt flats, where the horizon stretches forever, Nancy Holt’s Sun Tunnels rest in quiet alignment. These four massive concrete cylinders are more than sculptures—they’re instruments of time and light. Aligned with the solstices, they frame the rising and setting sun on specific days each year, connecting human design to celestial rhythm. Even on ordinary days, the experience is profound: crawling inside the tunnels, watching the light shift through their circular openings, the line between land art and sacred geometry begins to blur. One more of the most coveted "off-the-radar" artistic landmarks in America is in Florida: #35. Whimzeyland - Safety Harbor Tucked into a quiet residential street, Whimzeyland explodes with color and chaos. Covered in bottle caps, bowling balls, mosaics, and painted plywood, this kaleidoscopic home and yard is the life’s work of artists Todd Ramquist and Kiaralinda. It’s less a sculpture than a living environment-joyfully uncurated, unapologetically weird. Tourists find it by word of mouth, and locals just call it “The Whimzey House.” It’s Florida kitsch elevated to folk-art spectacle. “What we found is that people are drawn to art that feels personal - sometimes strange, sometimes sacred, but always rooted in place,” says Tony Gilbert of Rivers Art. “These aren’t just photo ops. They’re markers of memory, community, and imagination. And in many cases, they say more about who we are than the famous landmarks ever could.” To read more about these Hiden Art Gems visit: https://www.riverswallart.com/blogs/art-surveys/coolest-public-art-displays-united-states Previous Next

Downtown Hollywood Hosts Soccer Watch Party On Saturday, June 27th, 2026 By City of Hollywood Jun 25, 2026 Downtown Hollywood Is Gearing Up For An Exciting Day Of International Soccer, Live Music And Community Spirit As The City Hosts The First Of Two Free Outdoor Watch Parties This Summer On Saturday, June 27th, 2026. The event transforms Hollywood Boulevard between 19th Avenue and 21st Avenue into a pedestrian-friendly gathering space where residents and visitors can come together to enjoy world-class soccer on giant video screens, support local businesses and experience the energy of Downtown Hollywood. The event begins at 4:00 p.m. with England facing Panama at 5:00 p.m., followed by Colombia versus Portugal at 7:30 p.m. After the matches, the celebration continues with live performances by Los Wizzards and AleMor. In addition to the soccer action, attendees can enjoy food trucks, retail vendors and special offerings from Downtown restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. The event is designed to create a festive atmosphere that brings the community together while showcasing everything Downtown Hollywood has to offer. This Saturday marks the first of two Downtown watch parties planned this summer. A second event will take place on Sunday, July 19th, 2026 when fans can gather once again to watch the World Cup Final and enjoy another day of food, entertainment and community celebration. Admission is free. For safety and security, the event area will be fenced with designated entry points and security screenings. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and gates will close if capacity is reached. To accommodate visitors, City-operated parking garages and the Taylor Street parking lot will offer $15 flat-rate parking. Free parking will also be available at City Hall, with complimentary shuttle service to and from Downtown. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and allow extra time for parking and entry. Personal coolers, outside alcohol, pop-up tents, umbrellas, fireworks and weapons will not be permitted within the event area. Whether attending for the soccer, the music or the opportunity to spend a summer evening in Downtown Hollywood, the Saturday, June 27th, 2026 watch party offers a unique way to connect with friends, neighbors and fellow fans while enjoying one of the world's most popular sports. Hurricane Prep: FREE Sandbags Available On Monday, June 29th, 2026 The City of Hollywood will begin offering FREE sand and sandbags to residents on a first-come, first-served basis starting on Monday, June 29th, 2026. Residents may receive up to 10 sandbags per household while supplies last. A Valid Driver's License or Government-Issued Photo ID showing a Hollywood address is required for verification. Residents must bring their own shovel to fill bags. Verification & Bag Pick-Up Sites • Armory Community Center, 906 North Dixie Highway, Hollywood, Florida 33020 • Driftwood Community Swimming Pool, 3000 North 69th Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33024 Sand Pick-Up Locations • Holland Park, 801 Johnson Street, Hollywood, Florida 33019 • Rotary Park, 3150 Taft Street, Hollywood, Florida 33021 • Driftwood Park, 3000 North 69th Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33024 For hours and additional information, visit: https://HollywoodFL.org under Hollywood Happenings. This Saturday marks the first of two Downtown watch parties planned this summer. Previous Next

La Boulangerie Boul’Mich Aventura Has Returned Aventura Digest Sep 5, 2025 Beloved French-Latin bakery, Café, And Bistro La Boulangerie Boul’Mich Has Officially Reopened In Aventura, Unveiling A Refreshed Aesthetic And An Expanded Footprint. The Highly-Anticipated Revamp Introduces Not Only A New Look But Also Extended Hours And A Brand-New Bistro Menu. With Eight Locations Across South Florida, La Boulangerie Boul’Mich Has Become A Neighborhood Favorite, Known For Its Freshly Baked Goods, Artisanal Coffee Drinks, And A Broad Menu Of Sweet And Savory Offerings – From Breakfast Staples And Gourmet Sandwiches To Fresh Salads, Soups, Homemade Pastas, And More. Originally opened in 2015, the Aventura outpost has been redesigned with the guest experience in mind, offering a more spacious, welcoming environment and extended hours: open until 10PM Monday through Saturday and until 7PM on Sundays. The expansion was fueled by high demand from the local community and a commitment to creating a more vibrant dining experience. To celebrate the reopening, the restaurant will be offering customers 10% off any check (no minimum required) for the month of august (not valid over other promotions). Additionally, from Wednesday, August 6 through Tuesday, September 30, 2025, guests who present one of the many “Aventura is Back!” mailers the brand distributed will receive a complimentary glass of wine or mimosa. In addition to the updated space, the Aventura location will feature the concept’s new bistro menu which features a refined yet casual dinner-oriented experience inspired by classic European cafés. The menu features new savory appetizers such as Shrimp Cocktail with pink horseradish sauce; Moules Frites in a white wine cream sauce; Mini Crab Cakes with avocado paste and dill tartar. Main courses to consider include a Tenderloin Center Cut Steak with salad and roasted potato blend; Atlantic Norwegian Salmon in a Teriyaki Orange and Sesame sauce with asparagus and roasted potato blend. La Boulangerie Boul’Mich is located at 20475 Biscayne Boulevard, Suite G7-G8 Aventura, Florida 33180; Hours of operation: Monday - Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.; Sundays 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. For more information, please visit: www.laboulangerieusa.com. Follow along on: Social Media:@laboulangerie_boulmich. More About La Boulangerie Boul'Mich La Boulangerie Boul'Mich the family-oriented artisanal bakery and restaurant has been servicing South Florida with fresh and high-quality food for over 20 years with seven locations and continues to grow – the reopening of Aventura and the new DuPont location that will open in September 2025. The menu offers brunch, lunch, dinner, and all-day breakfast including options like Traditional Eggs Benedict, Croque Madame “Our Style”, New York Bagel, and Greek Avocado Toast. Guests can indulge in an array of freshly baked goods like gourmet empanadas, quiches, croissants, and desserts like Macarons and Elephant Ears; plus Latin and European pastries including Tequeños, Alfajor, and Pan De Bono. The menu also features an array of pasta as well as French-style gourmet sandwiches. Pair any of these dishes with refreshing beverages and cocktails including mimosas, summer spritz and tinto de verano. La Boulangerie offers a variety of frozen foods, to prepare at home, including soups, pasta sauces, and pastries complete with recipes. For more information and all eight locations, visit: www.laboulangerieusa.com . Previous Next

Uvalde Texas: Do Not Let This Tragedy Spread Fear, Let It Awaken Your Purity of Purpose By Tracy Renee Lee June 30, 2022 Share Although I have long been involved in politics, it is not something I seek or enjoy. Yet, try as I might, it calls me back into its web of disappointment and deceit as politicians threaten the integrity of our beloved constitution and the rights guaranteed therein. I am not a political writer and I like it that way; I want to keep it that way. But, recent events pull me beyond my desire to leave it alone into an instinctual reaction to speak out. I would rather not write on this subject; however, my heart wants to help those who have suffered, and my soul won’t rest until I do. I live in the Great State of Texas and I am grateful to reside here. Like most people residing in Texas, I tend to be directionally conservative. I believe in self-reliance, individual responsibility, and accountability, and that my safety along with that of my children and grandchildren, first and foremost, is my responsibility. I live among like-minded people because that is where I feel the safest. Additionally, although my husband and I experience the deficits of age, we plan and train to rely upon ourselves should anything dangerous or threatening come our way. Sadly, the school shooting in Uvalde, TX has clearly broken our hearts. I want to ignore it, but as a grief counselor, American citizen, and grandmother, I know that avoidance is not the answer. I am not related to anyone involved in this tragic event, but I have lost loved ones to murder, and I have suffered, down through the depths of my soul, the loss of a grandchild. The losses suffered in Uvalde, TX are so tragic, that once again, I find myself activated in an issue that should never have happened. This violent and senseless loss of life is impossible to reconcile for the survivors. For those of us outside of the immediate community of mourners, reconciliation of this nature is likewise fleeting. The irrepressible nature of those seeking political gain from such an event is repulsive and should be suppressed. The interference of incompetent government overreach contributing to this tragedy, must, however, be addressed. Had this interference not existed, 19 children, two teachers, and one husband might very well remain as living souls. Upon the birth of my first child, I realized that not one living soul would be willing to take a speeding bullet or walk through lava for my children, without personal regard or hesitation, save it be their parents. From that moment on, I became my husband’s partner in their defense. To protect my children from physical harm, emotional manipulation, psychological intimidation, spiritual death, and intellectual propaganda, I removed them from public school. In my opinion, their education and safety were more important than political correctness and propaganda. Some holding public office, point their fingers away from their failures by beating drums that do not exist. They would have us believe that taking our defense away from us would make us safer. I’ve seen their defense strategies, they never have, and never will work. Had one teacher pulled a sidearm and shot the shooter dead, there might remain 22 living souls who now lie in caskets beneath the earth’s protection. Had the parents been allowed to protect their children, rather than held at bay through inhumane government interference and intimidation, their children might remain with them today. If we, like the generations before us, would take it upon ourselves to protect our own, we would realize that it is our right and our nature to do so. I taught my girls that their safety was their own responsibility. Now I ask you to realize the same. Do not let this tragedy spread fear. Rather, let it awaken your purity of purpose to be personally accountable for yourself and your family. Stop insanity and evil before it turns your life into a tragedy. Complacency is not noble; honor, bravery, loyalty, truth, integrity, and conviction are. Grief is the most painful of human emotions. Let us comfort those who mourn the loss of their beloved children, and let us recognize senseless political confines masquerading as protective policies. Exercise your power to protect your families from inhumane predatory theories that reduce your right to protect yourself and your family from criminals, predators, and oppressive government. Repress political focus that promotes evil over people. “The strength of a nation lies in the homes of its people.” (Abe Lincoln) Do not let the cowardly sin of silence usher in the cancer of defeat. Stand against evil or battle never-ending grief. The loss of a child is the most difficult grief to survive. When senseless brutality is involved, recovery becomes complicated and can remain a lifelong battle for parents. Lifelong grief will wreak havoc on one’s mental, psychological, and physical health. It may also lead to early death for the survivor. Politics should never enter into the experience of death, especially when it involves a child. Parents should be allowed as much comfort as humanly possible upon the loss of their children. Unfortunately, with this tragedy, politicians with their politics were waiting in the wings and before the facts were even known, they, and the media, jumped in to stake a claim and further their agenda. My heart goes out to all of the families of Uvalde, TX. Terrorism has invaded their borders and every parent who has a child, as well as every child attending that school is frightened and traumatized. Life will never be the same for any of them and fear will accompany their steps as they reenter school and travel through life. I don’t know what the school will do, they must provide safety and security, but how do you overcome this tragedy? My heart bleeds for the parents who have lost their children, the families of the lost teachers, and for the husband who died from the stress and heartache inflicted upon him at the loss of his beloved wife. I ache internally for the children who survived this terror. How will it affect their lives and their freedom? And parents who must drop their children off at school there must be filled with rage and fear beyond comprehension. I understand that my political views may not be your political views, nor the views of the surviving families. I also understand that confusion and emotions run high when terror claims the lives of innocence. I do not wish to offend anyone, however, we must put a stop to the erosion of safety and liberty within our society. And, we must, as human beings, offer support, understanding, and love to those who have suffered this horrific tragedy. My heart goes out to you, the survivors of Uvalde, TX, and I pray that you will be able to one day find a path that allows the pain of this unfair and unfathomable tragedy to release your heart from the suffocation it has inflicted. As a survivor of tragic loss, I know that some of you have probably wished death upon yourselves. I hope that this shall not be your fate. I hope that you know there remain others who love and need you, and who want to be able to reach out to help you through this loss. Some may not know what to say and therefore avoid speaking in an effort to spare you additional pain. Feel and accept their love and prayers for your healing, and know too, that the nation yearns for your recovery. My name is Tracy Renee Lee. I am a Certified Grief Counselor (GC-C), Funeral Director (FDIC), published author, syndicated columnist, Podcaster, and founder of the “Mikey Joe Children’s Memorial” and Heaven Sent, Corp. I write books, weekly bereavement articles, Podcasts, and Grief BRIEFs related to understanding and coping with grief. I am the American Funeral Director of the Year Runner-Up and recipient of the BBB’s Integrity Award. It is my life's work to comfort the bereaved and help them live on. For additional encouragement, please visit my podcast “Deadline” at https://open.spotify.com/show/7MHPy4ctu9OLvdp2JzQsAA or at https://anchor.fm/tracy874 and follow me on Instagram at "Deadline_TracyLee". < Previous News Next News >