CLAUDIE Restaurant A French-Mediterranean Masterpiece In The Heart Of Miami By Merilee Kern, MBA Dec 17, 2025 Miami’s Ever-Evolving Culinary Scene Has A Dazzling New Jewel: www.Claudierestaurant.com . Nestled In Brickell, This French-Mediterranean Restaurant Captures The Timeless Allure Of The Cote D’azur With A Menu, Ambiance And Energy That Transports Diners Straight To The South Of France. The Restaurant Celebrates “La Cuisine Du Soleil,” A Culinary Style Pioneered By Roger Verge That Emphasizes The Light, Fresh And Sun-Kissed Flavors Of The Mediterranean. CLAUDIE is the latest milestone for Riviera Dining Group, the creators of MILA, AVA MediterrAgean, and CASA NEOS, and continues their legacy of redefining high-energy, experiential hospitality. Founded by Gregory Galy and guided by the culinary mastery of Chef Michaël Michaelidis—who honed his craft at celebrated establishments such as Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse and Joel Robuchon—CLAUDIE is an elevated dining experience where artistry and gastronomy converge. A Riviera-Inspired Escape From the moment you enter, CLAUDIE envelops you in the timeless charm of the Cote d’Azur. The space exudes Mediterranean sophistication, proffering an experience that is as much about ambiance as gastronomy. Outside, a 2,470-square-foot terrace welcomes diners into a lush Mediterranean garden complete with a radiant fountain centerpiece. A stunning bronze sculpture by Ada Da Silva serves as a focal point, further anchoring the alfresco dining area’s artistic sensibility. While high energy music is piped throughout both the indoor and outdoor dining space, a roving group of musicians amplifies the festive sensibility. Other design and decor details are notable. Flooring throughout features Mediterranean-inspired tiles, while rich natural finishes—lime-wash walls, warm wood, and natural stonework—evoke the Cote d’Azur’s coastal villages. Handcrafted furnishings in rattan, wicker and clay tones create a breezy, sun-drenched vibe, complemented by lush olive trees and greenery that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living. The centerpiece, a cascading fountain adorned with candles and florals, serves as both sculpture and gathering point, anchoring the restaurant in romance and ritual. CLAUDIE’s design goes beyond atmospheric—it makes an architectural statement. The bespoke dome light fixture in the main dining room doubles as an art installation, casting warm golden hues that change as the evening progresses. Along one wall, guests encounter a hand-painted mural by artist Victoria Krylov, which brings a dreamlike Riviera landscape into the dining room. This dialogue between light, art and texture ensures that CLAUDIE is not only a restaurant but also an evolving gallery of Mediterranean culture. Classics Meet Creativity While CLAUDIE’s menu brims with temptations—like theatrical table-side gazpacho, indulgent seafood towers and elegant entrecote wagyu & frites—several dishes stood out during my visit. The Escargots were a decadent nod to tradition, bathed in Burgundy garlic and parsley butter that melded into each delicate bite. The Burrata di Puglia, elevated with fig, perfectly ripe heirloom tomato and basil oil, offered a refreshing yet indulgent balance of creamy richness and bright Mediterranean flavor. Equally memorable was the New Caledonian obsiblue prawns, presented with lemon zest and extra virgin olive oil. Sweet, delicate and lovely in presentation, the prawns exemplified the clean flavors of “cuisine du soleil.” Among the mains, the Rack of Lamb was a striking success—succulent Australian lamb smothered in fragrant herbs and paired with smoked eggplant caviar that added depth and refinement. The Truffle Toupie Macaroni, with its infusion of truffle, ham and Comte cheese, delivered a rich and indulgent counterpoint: decadent comfort food elevated to haute cuisine. Truly stealing the show was the Lobster Spaghetti, featuring one and a quarter pounds of Maine lobster bathed in a creamy bisque sauce with just the right touch of spice—a dish that epitomizes CLAUDIE’s fusion of luxury, showmanship and approachability. And for dessert, the Sicilian Pistachio Ice Cream with golden praline and Etna olive oil, which is generously portioned to serve three to four people, provided an unforgettable finale: nutty, creamy and beautifully complex. Hospitality Elevated Through Art & Ambiance With every element thoughtfully considered—from design and decor to cuisine and cocktails—CLAUDIE embodies the chic, celebratory spirit of the French Riviera. More than a restaurant, it is an escape where art and nature meet, where every meal becomes a moment and where guests are encouraged to embrace the mantra of “Carpe Diem.” “The roots of CLAUDIE are deeply personal, drawing inspiration from the South of France, particularly the village of Mougins, where I grew up and where my father has served as mayor for decades,” said Gregory Galy, Founder & CEO of RDG. “Mougins is celebrated for its blend of artistry and Michelin-starred cuisine, epitomizing a way of life centered on slow living, effortless sophistication and an appreciation for beauty and culture. At CLAUDIE, under the leadership of Chef Michael Michaelidis, we are dedicated to offering an elevated culinary experience that embodies our unwavering commitment to excellence.” Like its sister venues—MILA, AVA MediterrAgean, and CASA NEOS—CLAUDIE reflects RDG’s vision of hospitality as a lifestyle. The restaurant isn’t designed merely as a meal stop but as a multi-sensory destination where food, design, art and music converge. The experience flows from intimate indoor dining to breezy patio seating, each area carefully curated with Mediterranean pottery, woven textiles, and artisan tableware. These elements underscore the group’s philosophy: that the ritual of dining should embody “slow living,” balancing indulgence with ease. The result is a transportive epicurean escape into Riviera glamour. From exquisite cuisine to inspired design, CLAUDIE is a testament to the art of living beautifully. 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

Volunteers Wanted: The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Is Looking For Arts Lovers Of All Ages Thu Oct 05 2023 16:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Mass Shootings: The Vicious Cycle Fueled By America’s Toxic Cult of Violence Thu Jun 09 2022 04:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Aventura Branch Library Happenings: Renaissance Dance, Classic Board Games, Creative Kids And Much More March 10, 2023 Share The Aventura Branch Library has a wide variety of On-line and In-Person events. There will be Color Your Cares Away, e-Device Help, Introduction to Computers 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. Raising Resilient Children - Presented By The Children's Trust's Parent Club Friday, March 17th, 2023 - 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Parents are introduced to six core building blocks for children to manage their feelings and become resilient in dealing with life stress. Discussion will follow the presentation. For more information, please contact: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Beginner Knitting Basics Friday, March 17th, 2023 - 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Join us to learn the basics of knitting and socialize while you get started on your own project. Please bring your materials. Space is limited. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 12 years and up. Reading Circle Friday, March 17th, 2023 - 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Practice your English-language reading skills while improving your listening comprehension. Participants will take turns reading aloud parts of a selected story and then discuss the story with other learners. Registration is required. For more information, please contact: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Renaissance Dance Saturday, March 18th, 2023 - 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Let's dance! Join us and the Society of Creative Anachronism in person for a bit of history through Renaissance Dance. Learn the traditional dances of Italy, France and England - the building blocks of American Square Dancing. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 12 years and up. Introduction to Computers Saturday, March 18th, 2023 - 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Learn the basics of a computer including using a mouse, getting on the Internet, setting up and using an email account and more! Taught by instructors from Collective Sistahood. Instruction also available in Spanish and Creole. Ages 19 years and up. Building Blocks Club Saturday, March 18th, 2023 - 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Join us for an hour of family fun building and creating with our building blocks. Themes, challenges and building block pieces will be provided. For more information, please contact: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org Ages 6 years and up. Multilingual Story Hour for Adults Saturday, March 18th, 2023 - 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Read your favorite short story, share a story you have written or practice your storytelling skills. Stories in all languages are welcome. For more information, please contact: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 18 years and up. Talking Is Teaching - Talk, Read, Sing For Preschoolers Tuesday, March 21st, 2023 - 4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Join us for stories, songs and activities for preschoolers and their caregivers. A grab-and-go craft will be available to take home. Ages 3 - 5 years. Online Event: Falun Gong Meditation & Exercises Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023 - 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Falun Gong is an ancient, high level Chinese practice that uses gentle movements and meditation to cultivate the body, mind and spirit. Space is limited for this online event. Registration is required. Zoom link will be emailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. For more information, please contact: (305) 931-5512. Ages 19 years and up. Color Your Cares Away Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023 - 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Relax and relieve stress while coloring and listening to the soft sounds of relaxing music. Choose from a variety of coloring sheets, crayons, colored pencils and other supplies. Registration is required. For more information, please contact: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. e-Device Help Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023 - 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Need help with your electronic device? Instructors from Generation Technology will be available to offer assistance. Please bring your device for hands-on learning. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 19 years and up. Creative Kids Thursday, March 23rd, 2023 - 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Children explore their inner creativity with a dynamic art program that allows them to experiment with a variety of techniques and media. From painting to collage, local art magnet student instructors will provide a fun environment to nurture and develop creative skills. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 11 years. Classic Board Games Friday, March 24th, 2023 - 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Join us for an afternoon of old school games like Chess, Checkers, Scrabble, Monopoly or Mancala! Relax, meet new friends, practice your skills or learn a new game! Play one of our games or bring your own. Ages 12 years and up. Introduction To Computers Saturday, March 25th, 2023 - 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Learn the basics of a computer including using a mouse, getting on the Internet, setting up and using an email account and more! Taught by instructors from Collective Sistahood. Instruction also available in Spanish and Creole. Ages 19 years and up. Some of the above events require pre-registration. 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 News Next News >

Broad National Coalition Led By ICAR Collective Launches Israel’s First Psychoeducation Campaign To Address Trauma Jewish Connection News Feb 12, 2026 A Wide-Ranging Coalition Of Healthcare Providers, Government Agencies, Civil Society Organizations And Philanthropies, Led By ICAR Collective, Has Launched Israel’s First National Psychoeducation Campaign, A Coordinated Effort Aimed At Improving Mental Health Literacy, Reducing Stigma And Helping People Access Support Following The October 7th Hamas Attacks And The Ongoing War. The campaign, titled “How Are You,” was coordinated by ICAR Collective and developed and implemented in partnership with dozens of organizations across Israel’s mental health ecosystem, including HMOs, government ministries, local authorities and nonprofit groups. Organizers described it as a first-of-its-kind initiative, bringing together institutions that do not typically collaborate around a shared public mental health response. “This campaign reflects a shared understanding that trauma recovery cannot rely on clinics alone,” said ICAR Collective Co-Founder and Executive Director Gila Tolub. “When people understand what they are experiencing and know that their reactions are normal, they are far more likely to reach out for support earlier and help one another.” In preparation for the campaign ICAR Collective conducted a national psycho-trauma survey, which collected responses from 915 participants representative of the Israeli population. The survey assessed mental health literacy, stigma, coping behaviors and readiness to access care since October 7th, 2023. Development of the campaign was directly informed by the survey findings. The survey showed that while awareness of Mental Health is relatively high, practical knowledge about when and how to access support remains limited. About 85 percent of respondents said they understand that mental health affects daily functioning and can be treated, and roughly 75 percent view psychotherapy and medication as effective. However, only 60 percent reported knowing where to turn for help, and only about half of the respondents believed that people with severe Mental Health conditions can fully recover. Although 70 percent of respondents said they would be open to professional support if distressed, nearly 80 percent reported not accessing any mental health support in the past year. Among those reporting poor emotional well-being, only about half accessed care. Common reasons included believing they could cope independently, uncertainty about treatment effectiveness, cost, long wait times, lack of information and stigma. According to ICAR Collective, the findings pointed to a national paradox: While nearly 90 percent of respondents recognized the importance of daily routines and 70 percent viewed relaxation techniques as helpful, only about 60 percent could name specific coping tools they regularly use. “The data shows a clear gap between awareness and action,” said ICAR Collective Co-Founder and Director of Medical and Scientific Affairs Prof. Eyal Fruchter. “Many people understand that mental health matters, but uncertainty, stigma and lack of clear guidance still prevent them from reaching out when support could make the biggest difference.” Over the past few months, ICAR Collective worked with field partners and clinical experts to translate the survey findings into campaign design. This included mapping existing psychoeducation efforts, developing short evidence-based messages and filming 28 Mental Health professionals to deliver core messages with credibility and public trust. The campaign launched during prime-time television news broadcasts across seven channels, alongside distribution through digital platforms, health maintenance organizations and community networks. A central component is an online toolbox, available at: https://www.hru.org.il/ , which includes instructional videos, self-assessment tools, practical coping strategies and links to professional support services. In Israel, partners include the Federation of Local Authorities in Israel, JDC, Sahar, Tamar Association, Israel Healthy Cities Network, Clalit Health Services, Maccabi Healthcare Services, Meuhedet Health Services, Leumit Health Services, ERAN – Emotional First Aid, Natal, Enosh, the Israel Trauma and Resiliency Center, the Israel Trauma Coalition, the National Insurance Institute, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Welfare, Mifal HaPais, the Taub Center and Wuste Tsega. Funding for the campaign comes from a combination of international partners, including Jewish United Fund of Chicago, Micah Philanthropies, Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and ZB Foundation and local partners including the Israel Trauma Coalition, Mifal HaPais and Meuhedet Health Services. “Our campaign reflects growing recognition that large-scale psychoeducation can strengthen resilience, reduce stigma and ease pressure on an already strained mental health system by encouraging earlier access to appropriate support,” said ICAR Collective Co-Founder & Director of Advancement Lisa Silverman. ICAR Collective (Israel’s Collective Action for Resilience) is working to accelerate trauma recovery and advance mental health resilience through coordinated collaboration across Israel’s public health, NGO, academic and research communities. Founded in response to the national trauma of October 7, ICAR Collective’s mission is to build a national, science-backed roadmap for long-term trauma recovery—aligning efforts and resources to protect the wellbeing, productivity and security of Israeli society. For more information, visit: https://www.icarcollective.org/ . Follow and share the national psychoeducation campaign, visit: www.hru.org.il There is now a coordinated effort aimed at improving Mental Health literacy, reducing stigma and helping people access support following the October 7 Hamas attacks and the ongoing war. Previous Next

“Toes In The Sand” Annual Celebration: The Zac Brown Band Will Light Up The Stage This Month January 4, 2024 Share With a smooth blend of Country Music and Southern Rock, Multi-Platinum and Grammy® Award-Winning Zac Brown Band will light up the stage in the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, January 27th, 2024 at 8:30 p.m. as part of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation’s “Toes In The Sand” Annual Celebration. Presented by long-time Broward Center supporters Charles and Laura Palmer, the Annual Celebration begins with an Exclusive Cocktail Reception at 5:00 p.m. in the Peck Courtyard followed by dinner in the Amaturo Theater at 6:15 p.m., the performance at 8:30 p.m. and an After-Show Party with DJ Laz Under The Stars at the Wendt Terraces and Huizenga Pavilion. Proceeds from the evening benefit the Education And Enrichment Programs at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. With the Celebration Dinner almost sold out, a limited number of Tables and Single Tickets for all the evening’s festivities are available. Tables of ten are $20,000 and $30,000. Single Tickets for the Celebration festivities are $2,500 per person. Additionally, there is a Special Party Ticket which includes Orchestra Seating for the performance, the post-show party with DJ Laz and Complimentary Cocktails throughout the evening for $1,250 Per Person. Zac Brown Band has had Six Consecutive Albums reach the top 10 of the Billboard 200 Charts and Five Consecutive Albums debut at Number One on Billboard’s Country Albums Chart. With three Grammy® Awards including Best New Artist in 2010, Zac Brown Band has sold more than 30 million Singles and nine million Albums, amassed over 11 billion Catalog Streams, achieved 16 Number One Radio Singles and are the second act to top both the Country and Active Rock Formats. Zac Brown Band currently holds the record for most Consecutive Sold-Out Shows at the iconic Fenway Park, and as a result, was inducted into the Fenway Music Hall of Fame in 2022, joining music icons Paul McCartney and Billy Joel. “Zac Brown Band is one of the most dynamic groups performing today,” said Lisa Kitei, President of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. “They have sold out stadiums throughout the country, and we are thrilled to have them at our Annual Celebration. It’s through the generosity of our sponsors that we can bring them to the Broward Center.” In addition to “Knee Deep” Presenting Sponsors Charles and Laura Palmer, “Chicken Fried” Sponsors are AutoNation, Burdette Beckmann, Inc., Ann M. Burris, Linda Haller, Hudson Family Foundation, The Salah Foundation, S. Donald Sussman and Michelle Howland, Richard and Christine Welch, Gary Wendt, Weston Volvo Cars & Weston Nissan, and Mark and Linda Wilford. “Homegrown” Sponsors are Amazon, Stephanie Aoun and Robert Wagner, BBX Capital, Marty and Terri Cole, Leo Goodwin Foundation, Gunster, Northern Trust, Stiles, Joyce W. Virga, and Linda and Douglas Von Allmen. Spirits Sponsor is Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits; Program Sponsor is Starmark; and Invitation Sponsor is Associated Printing Productions, Inc. Sponsor listings are as of November 27th, 2023. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, call: (954) 468-3284. Or email: Foundation@BrowardCenter.org . Tickets to the performance only are now on sale and priced from $175. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center, The Parker and affiliated venues. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462.0222 (Option#: 1). Or at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. Know who you are buying from when you purchase tickets. For nearly 40 years, the Broward Performing Arts Foundation has been instrumental in providing support for the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The Foundation was established in 1985 to deliver the required private funding to build the Center and create an endowment to sustain its operations. Over the years, the Foundation has successfully raised funds to support the Broward Center’s Innovative and Diverse Programming, Arts-In-Education Initiatives, Community Engagement Activities and Capital Projects. In 2021, the Foundation completed a $30 Million Capital Campaign to renovate and restore the iconic Parker Playhouse. Prior to this, it raised $60 Million to complete the Encore! Capital Campaign to renovate, renew and revitalize the Broward Center. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org < Previous News Next News >

Starring Joan Crawford: Hollywood Historian Explores The Lasting Impact Of The Pop Culture Icon June 13, 2024 Share She started making movies in 1925 and won her sole Oscar in 1945. She died in 1977, seven years after shooting her last picture, at age 69 or possibly 70 - something. Almost half a century later, Joan Crawford keeps popping up everywhere from Ryan Murphy’s Feud: Bette and Joan to Ru-Paul’s Drag Race, from Richard Brody’s film criticism to parodies inspired by Mommie Dearest. In the new book Starring Joan Crawford: The Films, the Fantasy, and the Modern Relevance of a Silver Screen Icon, Hollywood historian Samuel Garza Bernstein draws on reams of press coverage and never-before-seen restored images from movie posters and stills, publicity shots, sheet music, and magazine covers. Starring Joan Crawford is both a celebration and a compelling exploration of how she informed ideas about wealth and class, femininity and gender roles, identity, and fulfillment. Dividing her career into five phases, Garza Bernstein looks at what Crawford meant to audiences: Influencer and It Girl—Her marriages and rise to fame. This phase marks the beginning of its end in 1928 due to two transformative events: her marriage to a Hollywood prince, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., and the arrival of talkies. After escaping a harrowing childhood and dancing her way to Broadway, Lucille LeSueur is discovered by an MGM talent scout. She made her silent film debut in January 1925, and dazzled as the joyful jazz baby. Off-screen, she is unafraid of hard work, which includes getting her pictures in the papers for dancing and partying. Three months later, the studio’s publicity head launched a “Name Her” contest in Movie Weekly magazine, and Joan Crawford, the star, was born. If Social Media had existed, she would have been out there, offering upbeat advice on how to reach your goals and make yourself whatever you want to be. Queen of the Movies—How she made many and how her career was flailing. In 1930, Crawford was named the top box office draw in the world, ahead of Greta Garbo. A full-blown star, Crawford sets out to prove she can act and takes on dramatic roles—playing a bitter antihero in Paid and a suicide survivor in Laughing Sinners opposite Clark Gable, with whom she develops an enduring friendship. Rain is her first flop, and she blames herself. Rebounding, she switches to rom-coms. Then she makes a second flop. Branded “box office poison,” she is mortified. But she has a career to protect. In 1939, she sparkled in The Women, a big-budget film directed by George Cukor. In 1940, she made two films that she considers her best work: Strange Cargo opposite Gable and Susan and God opposite Frederick March. But her string of hits peters out and the quality of the scripts MGM offers is below par, so in 1943, Crawford asks to be released from her MGM contract—paying $100,000 for the privilege—and embraces her most controversial role: mother. Still, her work comes first. Mother and Martyr. By this phase, Crawford is on her third husband (after a brief second marriage to Franchot Tone). She marries Phillip Terry because he seems like a kind man who will make a good father figure. After buying her freedom from MGM, she is forced to wait two agonizing years before making her first picture for Warner Bros: Mildred Pierce. She won the Academy Award for Best Actress. With Mildred, Crawford creates a new archetype for not only herself but also American women, with suffering baked into the drive for independence and fulfillment to help ease the guilt of getting what you want. Though Crawford is in demand, unlike in the MGM years, she has time on her hands. Boredom is dangerous for a workaholic. To ease her anxiety, she depends on alcohol. And to keep busy, she micromanages her four adopted children. Dragon Lady—From actress to Pepsi spokes girl. In her mid-40s, though beautiful and with legs to die for, Crawford worries about failure. She starts trolling Marilyn Monroe, and the backlash defines the public image she develops in the 1950s—at first, seen as old and out of touch, and she self-sabotages her chance to sizzle on the beach in From Here to Eternity (the Deborah Kerr role was meant for Crawford). Then she embraces the monster and returns to MGM to make the movie that will seal her fate as a dragon icon: Torch Song. She plays the iron lady of Broadway musicals—a star who feels empty because she cannot find love in her private life—a situation that hits close to home, where she often fights, sometimes physically, with her daughter Christina. She continues to land roles as bitchy ball-busters in films, including Johnny Guitar and Queen Bee. She marries for the fourth and final time. As the wife of Alfred Steele, the President of Pepsi, Crawford embraces her role as the public face of a soft drink giant. Reinvention—What ever happened to ...? She signs a contract for her memoirs, searches for her next project, and lands on the story of two aging sisters—one a crippled former movie star, the other a demented former vaudeville star. What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? happens because Crawford finds the novel, finds the director, gets Bette Davis, and convinces Director Robert Aldrich to sign on. Crawford begins her final phase devastated by the loss of Steele (who unexpectedly died of heart failure a few days shy of his 58th birthday), their larger-than-life partnership, and the financial security she thought he provided (his estate was essentially bankrupt). Determined to cement her legacy, she barrels into the 1960s leaving her humanity behind. The Author Samuel Garza Bernstein is a Stonewall Book Award-Winning Author, Screenwriter and Playwright. He splits his time between Porto, Portugal, and Los Angeles, California. < Previous News Next News >

Mother's Day Gifts: That Are Truly Exceptional At Brand International May 11, 2023 Share Mothers are often the unsung heroes of our lives, the ones who have given us so much without ever asking for anything in return. As such, it's important to take the time to show our mothers how much we appreciate them and one way to do that is by giving them a special gift on Mother's Day. A perfume is a perfect gift for your mother because it's a luxurious item that she may not necessarily buy for herself. It's a way of indulging her, of making her feel special and loved all year. Perfumes can evoke memories, transport you to another place and add a touch of glamor to everyday life. Every time she wears the perfume, she will be reminded of your love and appreciation for her. By taking the time to select the perfect fragrance, you can show your mother that you cherish her and value her presence in your life and Jacqueline and her team at Brand International are here to help you find that perfect fragrance at an exceptional discount, so look no further. With its knowledgeable staff and a wide selection of designer fragrances and eyewear, Brand International is the go-to place for anyone looking to find the perfect gift for that special mom in their life. Whether you're looking for Mother's Day, a birthday or anniversary gift, or simply something special for yourself, Brand International has everything you need and at a price that won't break the bank. Located in the heart of Hallandale Beach, Brand International Perfume celebrates mothers all year round. With Mother's Day just around the corner on May 14th, there's no better time to take advantage of the exceptional discounts offered at Brand International. The store offers a magnificent assortment of high-end perfumes and eyewear and its courteous staff is always on hand to assist you in finding the perfect gift. Jacqueline Kels, the Owner of Brand International, has over two decades of experience in the perfume and eyewear industry and she and her team of professionals are committed to providing the highest quality customer service possible. From the moment you walk into the store, you'll be greeted warmly and assisted quickly and courteously. If you're looking for a specific fragrance that's out of stock, the team will go the extra mile to help you find it at a price that suits your budget. During the month of May, customers can take advantage of special savings on the latest eyewear. Brand International Perfume has a vast selection of designer brand name sunglasses and frames, including Vera Wang, Prada, Chanel, Dolce, Burberry, Oakley, Ray-Ban, Dior, Tiffany, Versace and many more. Whether you're looking for a particular style or simply want to try something new, the staff will help you find the perfect frame that fits your personality and budget. One of the things that sets Brand International apart from other stores is its commitment to making it easy for customers to find the perfect frame for their face. Jacqueline and her team understand how important it is to have a pair of eyewear that not only helps you see clearly but also makes you feel confident and stylish. That's why they offer a wide range of frames and styles to choose from, all at prices that are affordable. Looking for luxurious fragrances without breaking the bank? Look no further than Brand International Perfume! This store offers a wide selection of high-end fragrances from popular brands like Tom Ford, Narciso Rodriguez, Bottega Veneta, Givenchy, Gucci, Dior, Bond No. 9, Nishane, Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris, Valentina Pink and Tiffany & Co. Even if you're on the hunt for a rare scent that's hard to find, Owner Jacqueline Kels is dedicated to helping you track it down. The store's philosophy of "If you can't find it, we may have it" makes it a one-stop-shop for elusive fragrances. Whether you're looking for a unique fragrance or a classic favorite, Brand International Perfume has you covered. Brand International is also known for its outstanding customer service. Jacqueline and her team are always on hand to answer any questions you may have and to help you find the perfect gift for that special someone. Whether you're looking for a specific brand or just need some advice on what to buy, they're always happy to help. With its exceptional discounts, outstanding selection and commitment to customer service, Brand International is the perfect place to find exceptional Mother's Day gifts. Whether you're looking for a new fragrance or a stylish pair of eyeglasses, you're sure to find exactly what you're looking for at a price that fits your budget. So why wait? Head over to Brand International today and find the perfect gift for that special mom in your life. Brand International is open seven days a week, so you can drop in at your earliest convenience. Located at 121 Northeast 3rd Street in Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009, the store is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. If you don't live in the area or are unable to visit in person, you can always shop by calling them at: 954-457-1969 or via email at: biperf18@yahoo.com . < Previous News Next News >

'Race-Neutral' College Admissions: The Supreme Court Rules To End Racial Preferences Project 21 July 6, 2023 Share Ambassadors with the Project 21 black leadership network cheered last weeks U.S. Supreme Court ruling on two seminal affirmative action cases: Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College and Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. University of North Carolina. Project 21 had filed an amicus brief in the Harvard case. The Court ruled in favor of Students for Fair Admissions in both cases, by deciding that institutions of higher learning cannot use race as a factor in admissions. In the Court's ruling, Chief Justice Roberts wrote that the court says it has "permitted race-based admissions only within the confines of narrow restrictions. University programs must comply with strict scrutiny, they may never use race as a stereotype or negative, and - at some point - they must end." "Today we have a 21st century Brown v. Board moment," said Project 21 Chairman Horace Cooper. "Finally, the Court has ruled that colleges and universities will have to use only methods that are 'race-neutral' for admissions and will no longer be able to discriminate against or in favor of applicants based on their race." "No student should have to worry that they will be prevented from entry into college because of their race, and thanks to today's ruling, no student will," added Cooper. In what may be considered the most important issue addressed during the Supreme Court's 2022-23 term, the cases challenged race-focused policies rooted in previous court decisions that suggested that diversity goals justify using preferences in admitting incoming freshman classes. Since the 1978 SCOTUS ruling in University of California Regents v. Bakke, race has been allowed to be a factor in college admissions, no matter the harm inflicted on students considered less favorable by college admission boards. That injustice has been undone with today's ruling. "Using discriminatory practices to supposedly remedy past discrimination was always going to be a recipe for disaster," said Project 21 Ambassador Christopher Arps. "Unfortunately, Asian students, who you thought would benefit from affirmative action, instead have become one of its biggest victims. Today's Supreme Court decision is a decisive victory towards Martin Luther King, Jr.'s dream of a colorblind society." "This is a self-evident truth: all men are created equal. That means the God-given, intrinsic importance of life, liberty, property and equal treatment under the law is concrete and inviolable," said Project 21 Ambassador Mike Hill, a former member of the Florida House of Representatives. "All people should be treated according to their performance. Past discrepancies regarding this truth are not corrected by new violations. Affirmative action is wrong on its face. The majority on the Supreme Court got this one right. Finally." "I am ecstatic over the Supreme Court's decision to strike down Harvard's and UNC's discriminatory admissions policies," said Project 21 Ambassador Melanie Collette. "Affirmative action, while well-intentioned, has become a twisted game that rewards skin color over merit and that punishes hard-working individuals who are white or Asian." "For years, blacks have been told their achievements are not solely their own, and that their skin color somehow played a role in their successes," added Collette. "It's insulting and demeaning to suggest that blacks couldn't have done this without affirmative action's handout." "Today was clearly a victory for the country," added Donna Jackson, Project 21's director of membership development. "Fixing our college admission process shouldn't start with affirmative action initiatives; it should start with accountability at the K-12 level. The process clearly punished success and rewarded failure. Merit-based admissions ensures we are competitive not only in the marketplace, but in the world where innovation is needed. Setting low expectations for our students only creates low performance outcomes. We must always strive to challenge the next generation to ensure American greatness." Project 21, a program of the National Center for Public Policy Research, was co-amici on the brief urging the Court to take on the case against University of North Carolina. It has also participated in briefs in other major cases before the U.S. Supreme Court including the Fisher v. University of Texas and Shelby County v. Holder. Project 21, a leading voice of black conservatives for over 25 years, is sponsored by the National Center for Public Policy Research. Its members have been quoted, interviewed or published over 50,000 times since the program was created in 1992. Founded in 1982, the National Center for Public Policy Research is a non-partisan, free-market, independent conservative think-tank. Ninety-four percent of its support comes from some 60,000 individuals, less than four percent from foundations and less than two percent from corporations. Follow Project 21 on Twitter at: @Project21News for general announcements. To be alerted to upcoming media appearances by Project 21 members, follow our media appearances Twitter account at: @NCPPRMedia. < Previous News Next News >

Congratulations To The First Ever: Don Soffer Aventura High School Students Graduate June 9, 2023 Share Congratulations to the first-ever graduating class of Don Soffer Aventura High School, @donsofferahs! These “first” seniors received notably high SAT and ACT scores, acceptance letters to over 50 colleges and universities, and over $5,000,000 in Scholarships. The Colleges included: Clemson University, Elon University, Florida State University, Indiana University, John Hopkins University, Penn State University, Rutgers University, Tulane University, University of Florida, University of Miami, University of Michigan, University of North Carolina, and University of Texas (Austin). Well done, Barracudas, Class of 2023! "Considering what an amazing school community we have, it is reasonable to anticipate magnificent outcomes: The DSAHS graduation rate will be 100%; DSAHS will earn elite national ranking through the Washington Post’s Challenge Index Score and “A” ratings each year from the Florida Department of Education; the number of students earning National Merit Recognition will rival Florida’s top high schools and our graduates will be prepared to attend elite universities, thrive in their careers and become global leaders." Principal Geoff McKee, Ph.D. Don Soffer Aventura High School. About The School Don Soffer Aventura High School is a Municipal Charter School managed by Charter Schools USA, Inc. (CSUSA) and governed by the City of Aventura. The High School is a Tuition-FREE Public Charter School established in August of 2019 that currently serves grades 9-12. The 53,418-square-foot School and 10,250-square-foot Gymnasium are situated on two acres at 3151 Northeast 213th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. (Photo Credit: https://twitter.com/cityofaventura) < Previous News Next News >

Two Weeks Of Culture And Connection At Boca's JCC’s 2025 Jewish Film Festival By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 The Adolph & Rose Levis JCC (Levis JCC) is proud to present the 2025 Judy Levis Krug Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival on February 8th – February 22nd, at Movies of Delray. The two-week festival will feature more than 30 Israeli and Jewish-themed feature films, shorts, documentaries and comedies from around the world. Boca Raton’s original Jewish film festival, now in its ninth year, offers entertaining, inspiring and thought-provoking stories, community connection, and the unique opportunity to learn from filmmakers, producers, actors and directors at screenings and special events throughout the Festival. Viewed by more than 3,000 film enthusiasts in 2024, the JLKBRJFF is the premiere destination for Jewish and international films, carefully cultivating a variety of film genres ranging from comedies and love stories to political and historical dramas. "I am so proud of our festival, which is a respected space for cultural enrichment and really excels at bringing our community together through the universal language of film," said Evan Foster, Manager of the Levis JCC Judy Levis Krug Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival. "By presenting a variety of films that offer diverse perspectives, we are able to spark conversations that enriches our collective understanding of each other and the world around us." The 2025 JLKBRFF lineup captures the depth and diversity of experiences. From poignant dramas like "Bliss" which delves into the complexities of marriage, to powerful documentaries like "Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire" which provides a unique biographical insight into one of the most revered voices in the Holocaust remembrance movement. The festival offers a profound exploration of resilience, identity, and history. The festival also delves into the realms of music and personal legacies with "Janis Ian: Breaking Silence" which chronicles the turbulent and inspiring life of singer-songwriter Janis Ian, and "Beethoven’s Nine" which intertwines the history of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony with contemporary global events. Meanwhile, the Festival’s lighter films include "31 Candles," a quirky and heartfelt story about late-life bar mitzvahs and personal rediscovery set against the backdrop of New York City. “We take great pride in being Boca Raton's original Jewish film festival" said Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center's Grand Benefactor Judy Levis Krug." Each year, our goal is to present new stories that resonate with our audiences, reflecting both the historical depth and the vibrant spirit of Jewish culture.” Cultural arts programming demand remains strong throughout the year with the Emily & Neil Kishter Year-Round Film Programs including Featured Films, Movie Club and two popular film series—the Sunday Morning Israeli Film Series and Fascinating Sephardim: A Film Series, presented in partnership with The Sephardi Federation Palm Beach County. These programs provide continuous opportunities for cultural engagement and learning beyond the festival itself. For more information on dates, films, festival pass packages and individual ticket purchases, visit: https://levisjcc.org/filmfestival - Or contact Evan Foster at: evanf@levisjcc.org - Sponsorship opportunities are also available. The Levis JCC is located at 21050 95th Avenue South, Boca Raton. Movies of Delray is located at 7421 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach. Previous Next

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