World-Renowned Dancers Prepare Students For Dance Futures April 18, 2024 Share Many professional dancers plan to teach when their performing days are over, but Adiarys Almeida and her husband Taras Domitro didn't want to wait. So, in between performing as international guest principal ballet artists with some of the most prestigious companies in the world, and taking care of their toddler son, they formed the Hollywood Ballet Academy at 1937 Harrison Street. The Cuban-born couple, both past principal dancers and current guest artists in several major ballet companies throughout the world, have also always been educators, teaching master classes, and judging competitions, dance festivals, and more. "Both of us have always had a huge passion for teaching, we just decided to do it a little sooner, not wait until we retired," said Almeida, the Hollywood Ballet Academy's Assistant Director. "So we're running the school, running the business, teaching all day, still traveling and performing, being a family, and we're very happy and really grateful." The Hollywood Ballet Academy, Almeida pointed out, is more than a typical ballet school. It is a training ground and springboard for future professional dancers. "Our program is mostly focused on teaching classical ballet to pre-professionals, and every single class is designed to enrich that; it's a very complete, progressive technique," she explained. "We are a school for the pre-professionals during the day, the kids who are home-schooled and really focused on dance. They come in and train and dance all day, then go home and do their regular schoolwork." The Hollywood Ballet Academy is open to students of all ages, starting with a Mommy & Me class for ages 1 to 3 ($50/month); and creative movement and Pre-Ballet for ages 3 to 5 ($100/month). Other afterschool ($300-500/month) and evening classes are also available. During the day, the focus is on the pre-professional program ($1000/month). At the end of each term, the students perform at a local theater. Throughout their dance training, students are also coached in auditioning and interviewing for dance companies and universities with good dance programs. "Right now, we have our first students accepted into three American ballet companies," Almeida smiled proudly. After choosing Downtown Hollywood for the Hollywood Ballet Academy because of its central location and lack of competing professional studios, they soon realized that they really like it here, and so they became Hollywood residents too! "One of the things we love about Hollywood is that it does so many things to support the arts," Almeida declared. "At the third Saturday Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk, for example, you see the people and they’re so happy to be there, they appreciate it, they participate. We're excited to be participating in the event." As educators, the owners of the Hollywood Ballet Academy are pleased to have enjoyed much success, with multiple awards and especially with student placements, in the short time they have been open. "Ballet is a profession that is difficult. It requires such a level of concentration, dedication, and commitment," Almeida believes, "that even if they don't make it as dancers, or decide not to pursue it, this training really prepares them for life, whatever they decide to do." For additional information about the Hollywood Ballet Academy, please call: (954) 842-3499. Or visit: www.hollywoodballetacademy.com - Or Instagram: @hollywoodballetacademy. Downtown Hollywood offers on-street metered parking for $1.50 per hour, as well as municipal garage parking for $1 per hour at 251 South 20th Avenue (between Harrison Street and Van Buren Street). In addition, a $10 flat rate public valet station, located at 1925 Hollywood Boulevard, is open Thursday to Sunday, from 5:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. For more information about redevelopment projects, businesses, new investment, and streetscape improvements in Hollywood's Downtown and Beach Districts, call the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) at: (954) 924-2980. Or visit: www.HollywoodCRA.org < Previous News Next News >

The Florida Premiere Of Light Switch - Immerse Yourself In A Contemporary Comedy About The Power Of Imagination, The Longing For Connection, And The Courage It Takes To Be Truly Seen South Florida Sun Times May 28, 2026 Meet Henry Sullivan - 27, Gay, Autistic, And Completely Enchanted By The Sweeping Romance Of 19Th-Century British Novels. He’s Read Wuthering Heights 67 Times; Dreamed Every Scene… But Nothing In Those Pages Prepared Him For The Complexities Of Modern Dating. Join Henry On His Journey Through Love, Heartbreak, Identity, And Acceptance - Navigating A World That Doesn’t Always Understand Him And Learning To Write His Own Kind Of Love Story - In Island City Stage’s Florida Premiere Of Light Switch By Dave Osmundsen. Tickets Are On Sale Now For The Play Running From Thursday, May 21st, 2026 – Sunday, June 14th, 2026. "A couple of years ago, Richard Milstein, a patron of ours, emailed me to say he had seen this terrific play in Chicago and he thought it would be perfect for Island City Stage, said Andy Rogow, Artistic Director of Island City Stage. “He told Dave Osmundsen, the playwright, to get in touch with me, which he did. That play was Light Switch and as soon as I read it, I agreed that we had to produce it. The exploration of a young, autistic gay man's quest to find love in a world that isn't as romantic as the Victorian-era novels he is obsessed with is so heartfelt and engaging. I'm always looking for new and original stories that highlight the vast diversity of our LGBTQ+ community and this play fit the bill perfectly." This poignant coming-of-age story thoughtfully portrays one remarkable young man's journey to find anything -- or anyone -- that lights up his heart the way 19th century romantic literature does. When Henry ultimately meets a potential match in Joseph, he wonders if Joseph will be the one to “flip the switch.” Funny, moving, and profoundly relatable, Light Switch captures the power of imagination, the longing for connection, and the courage it takes to be truly seen. Autistic playwright Dave Osmundsen’s work explores the intersections of queerness and neuro-diversity. Light Switch received its world premiere with Spectrum Theatre Ensemble in April 2022. Light Switch was also the 2021 Distinguished Achievement recipient of the Jean Kennedy Smith Playwriting Award, an Honorable Mention finalist for BAPF 2021, long listed for the Theatre503 International Playwriting Award, a finalist for the 2020 Carlo Annoni Playwriting Prize, and a semi-finalist for the 2020 National Playwrights Conference. Osmundsen’s work has been seen and developed at KCACTF Region 8, the Kennedy Center/NNPN MFA Playwrights Workshop, B Street Theatre, the William Inge Theatre Festival, the Midwest Dramatists Conference, Phoenix Theatre Company, Clamour Theatre Company, Premiere Stages, and more. He was one of two recipients of the Blank Theatre and Ucross Foundation's inaugural Future of Playwriting Prize. His one-act, A Firework Unexploded, was a semi-finalist for the NYC Audio Theatre Writing Contest and was produced by Pint-Sized in London. His plays have been published by or are forthcoming in The Dionysian, Canyon Voices, Exposition Review and Broadway Play Publishing. MFA: Arizona State University. Island City Stage’s production of Light Switch is directed by theater veteran Michael Leeds and stars Gage Callenius as Ezra, Eric Gospodinoff as Joseph, Larry Toyter as Roggie, Irene Adjan as Marian, and Luis Roberto Herrera as Aaron/Ken/Another Guy. Gage Callenius (Henry) is a South Florida-based actor and a Silver Palm Award Winner for his performance for The Last Yiddish Speaker by Deb Zoe Laufer at FAU Theatre Lab. Other credits include City Theatre’s Short Cuts and Summer Reads tours. Eric Gospodinoff (Joseph) is an Argentinian-born, Miami-raised actor making his Island City Stage debut. His credits include Lloyd in Mud (LatineTheatre Lab); Short Cuts (City Theatre), The Misadventures of Pinocchio, Scrooge! A Fractured Christmas Carol (Fantasy Theatre Factory), The Lieutenant of Inishmore, Sweat, Cyrano de Bergerac, Moscow Moscow Moscow Moscow Moscow Moscow and A Bright Room Called Day (New World School of the Arts). Also thrilled to be making his Island City Stage debut is Larry Toyter (Roggie). His credits include Milk and Honey (Adi, J2 Spotlight at AMT Theater – Off-Broadway), The Inheritance (Zoetic Stage), Dames at Sea (Florida Studio Theatre), Frozen (Maltz Jupiter Theatre), 42nd Street (Maltz Jupiter Theatre), The Wizard of Oz (Riverside Center), Elf (Matthews, North Carolina Theatre), A Chorus Line (Lauderhill PAC), and I Love a Piano (Wick Theatre). Three-time Carbonell Award winner Irene Adjan (Marian) returns to Island City Stage where she was last seen in Tracy Jones. Most recently she was in Merrily We Roll Along (Zoetic Stage), Birthright and Lincoln Road Hustle (Miami New Drama), and performed as “Vivian Vance” in the one-person play Sidekicked (Boca Stage). Her extensive work in South Florida includes performances at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, Palm Beach Dramaworks, Theatre Lab, Slow Burn Theatre, The Wick, Actors’ Playhouse, GableStage and City Theatre. Luis Roberto Herrera (Aaron/Ken/Another Guy) is a Colombian American playwright based in South Florida. His plays include Poolside Glow, All The Women I Love Have Died (2024 National Playwrights Conference semifinalist), and At The End of The Hall (2025 semifinalist). His solo show, As I Eat the World, premiered at The Tank in New York City, toured Fringe festivals, and debuted internationally in Mexico City. Herrera is currently an adjunct faculty member at North Broward Preparatory School. Light Switch co-producers are Funding Arts Broward & Mark Loeser and the Opening Doors Charitable Trust; Lights and Sound Sponsor is Scott Bennett; Talent Sponsors are Jim Morgan & Joe Rodonis; Costume Sponsor is Richard Meyerson; and Set Sponsor is Glenn Goldberg. Additional funding is provided by the following: The Our Fund Foundation, The Schubert Foundation Inc., the SHS Foundation, the Warten Foundation, and OutClique. From twisted tales to touching human stories, Island City Stage invites you to expect the unexpected. Closing out its 14th Season of bold productions, each delivering unexpected twists, inventive storytelling, and unforgettable theatrical moments, is Eureka Day by Jonathan Spector from Thursday, August 20th, 2026 – Sunday, September 20th, 2026. Individual show tickets start at $45. A Mimosa Sunday performance sponsored by Misty Daniels will take place on Sunday, May 31st, 2026. The show runs for one hour and 50 minutes with an intermission. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.islandcitystage.org . Call: (954) 928-9800. Or email: boxoffice@islandcitystage.org . Follow Island City Stage on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/IslandCityStage . And on Instagram at: @islandcitystage. About Island City Stage Founded in 2012, Island City Stage is a professional theater committed to sharing stories of universal interest, engaging diverse audiences with entertaining, challenging, and inspiring productions and programs, often exploring the LGBTQ+ culture. These shows are brought to life on stage through the talents of professional artists whose credits include Broadway, Off Broadway, national tours, major regional theaters, film and television. Island City Stage offers an intimate setting with six rows of stadium seating to foster a feeling of inclusion and participation in each theatrical event. Island City Stage is a 501 (c) 3 NonProfit Organization. It is located at 2304 North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, Florida 33305. For tickets and more information, please call: (954) 928-9800. Or: www.visitislandcitystage.org . Previous Next

Serving the community: Auto Tags of Hallandale celebrating over 30 years of service PROFILES By Austin Torres February 4, 2022 Share Among the many businesses in South Florida, few can say that they have been open for over 30 years. Thanks to the committed and outstanding customer service of founder, Randy Giunto, Auto Tags of Hallandale is one of those few exceptional businesses that are able to celebrate that milestone. Through their unwavering dedication to delivering customer satisfaction and their “old school” approach to business, Auto Tags of Hallandale can proudly say they have been around since 1987 and are showing no signs of slowing down. Randy, whose family roots in the area can be traced back over a half-century, attended elementary and middle school right here in the city. As a young man, he enjoyed playing many sports like baseball and football at City Park (Bluesten Park) and since then, not much has changed. Randy is a still a major sports fanatic and his outgoing attitude and love of people have continued to make him a pillar of the community. Randy has built a remarkable reputation through his various relationships in the community. His love of people and desire to always give back to the community he grew up in, has garnered him an enormous and varying network of clientele from far and wide. Few can say that they have had the privilege of being in business for as a long as Randy has. “I never left,” says Randy. “To be a part of this community for so long has really meant so much to me and our family. Through the years, even though we were based in Hallandale, we started to pick up new customers from all over.” Randy’s experience assisting customers with a title, tag, renewal or the proper motor vehicle documents has helped establish Auto Tags of Hallan-dale as a premier business in South Florida. They offer a variety of services that include assistance in registering your vehicle, updating your decal, or replacing it if it has been lost or stolen. If you are a new resident to Florida and the city of Hallandale and need to register your vehicle, then Auto Tags of Hallandale can assist you in this process. Bring in your vehicle's title from the state from which you are moving, proof of Florida insurance and a valid driver's license or passport. For those of you who have lost your plate or decal, you can come in with your valid driver's license and your signature on the replacement form, which can be found via a link on their website (autotagsofhallandale.com) and apply for a new one. If your plate or decal was stolen, then you can come with the same form and your license and the team at Auto Tags of Hallandale will also assist you in the application process. However, Auto Tags of Hallandale not only assists customers with tags, titles and renewals for automobiles, but they can also assist you with trucks, boats, motorcycles, mobile homes, trailers and they will even provide notary service. Whatever the issue is, you can certainly always count on Randy and the team at Auto Tags of Hallandale to take care of your needs with a warm attention to detail and a commitment, that truly makes them stand out in a way that keeps clients coming back for more. Auto Tags of Hallandale’s client list include businesses such as: Chopper Zoo, Total Appliance, Wind Chill, LLC, Cusano’s Bakery and Lee’s Locksmith & Bicycle Shop. “The only way to stay in business in South Florida, is through building long lasting relationships with our customers. That’s why so many of our customers and clients will tell you that they won’t go anywhere else for their vehicle registration needs,” says Randy. Little has changed at Auto Tags of Hallandale since they opened their doors to customers back in 1987. You can still expect the same warm welcome and authenticity from Randy that has made him such a popular figure in the area. In October of 2021, Auto Tags of Hallandale will celebrate their third year at their new location in the popular 7th Avenue Village Shops. “What a great location, our loyal customers will find us quickly, but we are also excited about the new business that will walk in daily. We are right behind Marco’s Pizza and next to world of hearing,” said Randy. For those of you planning on making a visit, you can rest assured knowing that in light of the pandemic, Randy has enforced social distancing and wearing masks at his headquarters. “People are wearing masks and social distancing. I’m only letting two people into my office at a time,” says Randy. For those of you interested in visiting Auto Tags of Hallandale you can check out their location at 701 W. Hallandale Beach Blvd. Suite 106 Hallandale Beach, FL 33009.You can also contact Randy directly at: 954.456.5771. Additionally, you can visit their website at: www.autotagsofhallandale.com < Previous News Next News >

2024 Is the New 1984 By John & Nisha Whitehead February 15, 2024 Share Forty years past the time that George Orwell envisioned the stomping boot of Big Brother, the police state is about to pass off the baton to the surveillance state. Fueled by a melding of government and corporate power—the rise of the security industrial complex - this watershed moment sounds a death knell for our privacy rights. An unofficial fourth branch of government, the Surveillance State came into being without any electoral mandate or constitutional referendum, and yet it possesses superpowers, above and beyond those of any other government agency save the military. It operates beyond the reach of the president, Congress and the courts, and it marches in lockstep with the corporate elite who really call the shots in Washington, DC. This is the new face of tyranny in America: all-knowing, all-seeing and all-powerful. Tread cautiously. Empowered by advances in surveillance technology and emboldened by rapidly expanding public-private partnerships between law enforcement, the Intelligence Community, and the private sector, the Surveillance State is making the fictional world of 1984, Orwell’s dystopian nightmare, our looming reality. What we are witnessing, in the so-called name of security and efficiency, is the creation of a new class system comprised of the watched (average Americans such as you and me) and the watchers (government bureaucrats, technicians and private corporations). We now find ourselves in the unenviable position of being monitored, managed and controlled by our technology, which answers not to us but to our government and corporate rulers. This is the fact-is-stranger-than-fiction lesson that is being pounded into us on a daily basis. In this way, 1984, which depicted the ominous rise of ubiquitous technology, fascism and totalitarianism, has become an operation manual for the omnipresent, modern-day surveillance state. There are roughly one billion surveillance cameras worldwide and that number continues to grow, thanks to their wholehearted adoption by governments (especially law enforcement and military agencies), businesses, and individual consumers. Surveillance cameras mounted on utility poles, traffic lights, businesses, and homes. Ring doorbells. GPS devices. Dash cameras. Drones. Store security cameras. Geofencing and geotracking. FitBits. Alexa. Internet-connected devices. Stingray devices, facial recognition technology, body cameras, automated license plate readers, gunshot detection, predictive policing software, AI-enhanced video analytics, real-time crime centers, fusion centers: all of these technologies and surveillance programs rely on public-private partnerships that together create a sticky spiderweb from which there is no escape. With every new surveillance device we welcome into our lives, the government gains yet another toehold into our private worlds. What this adds up to for government agencies (that is, FBI, NSA, DHS agents, etc., as well as local police) is a surveillance map that allows them to track someone’s movements over time and space, hopscotching from doorbell camera feeds and business security cameras to public cameras on utility poles, license plate readers, traffic cameras, drones, etc. It has all but eliminated the notion of privacy enshrined in the Fourth Amendment and radically re-drawn the line of demarcation between our public and private selves. The police state has become particularly adept at sidestepping the Fourth Amendment, empowered by advances in surveillance technology and emboldened by rapidly expanding public-private partnerships between law enforcement, the Intelligence Community, and the private sector. Over the past 50-plus years, surveillance has brought about a series of revolutions in how governments govern and populations are policed to the detriment of us all. Cybersecurity expert Adam Scott Wandt has identified three such revolutions. The first surveillance revolution came about as a result of government video cameras being installed in public areas. It’s estimated that Americans are caught on camera an average of 238 times every week (160 times per week while driving; 40 times per week at work; 24 times per week while out running errands and shopping; and 14 times per week through various other channels and activities). That doesn’t even touch on the coverage by surveillance drones, which remain a relatively covert part of police spying operations. The second revolution occurred when law enforcement agencies started forging public-private partnerships with commercial establishments like banks and drug stores and parking lots in order to gain access to their live surveillance feeds. The use of automatic license plate readers extends the reach of the surveillance state that much further afield. The third revolution was ushered in with the growing popularity of doorbell cameras such as Ring, Amazon’s video surveillance doorbell, and Google’s Nest Cam. No longer do police even have to request permission of homeowners for such access: increasingly, corporations have given police access to footage as part of their so-called criminal investigations with or without court orders. The fourth revolutionary shift may well be the use of facial recognition software and artificial intelligence-powered programs that can track people by their biometrics, clothing, behavior and car, thereby synthesizing the many strands of surveillance video footage into one cohesive narrative, which privacy advocates refer to as 360 degree surveillance. While the guarantee of safety afforded by these surveillance nerve centers remains dubious, at best, there is no disguising their contribution in effecting a sea change towards outright authoritarianism. These cameras—and the public-private eyes peering at us through them—are re-engineering a society structured around the aesthetic of fear and, in the process, empowering “people to not just watch their neighborhood, but to organize as watchers,” creating not just digital neighborhood watches but digital gated communities. Finally, there is a repressive, suppressive effect to surveillance that not only acts as a potentially small deterrent on crime but serves to monitor and chill lawful First Amendment activity. As Matthew Feeney warns in the New York Times, “In the past, Communists, civil rights leaders, feminists, Quakers, folk singers, war protesters and others have been on the receiving end of law enforcement surveillance. No one knows who the next target will be.” No one knows, but it’s a pretty good bet that the surveillance state will be keeping a close watch on anyone seen as a threat to the government’s chokehold on power. After all, as I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, the Surveillance State never sleeps. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an attorney and author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of constitutional law, human rights and popular culture. John Whitehead's commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org . Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org < Previous News Next News >

Entr’Acte Theatrix Finds A New Home! - Mary Poppins Will Be The Company’s First Production In Their New Venue South Florida Sun Times Oct 22, 2026 Entr’Acte Theatrix Has Performed In Venues Up And Down Palm Beach County For Many Years – From The Studio At Mizner Park, To The Willow Theatre, To The Crest Theatre At Old School Square And The Kravis Center, To The PGA Arts Center And The William G. Skaff Center, Just To Name A Few! But Now, The Peripatetic Theatre Company – Which Produces At Least Two Family-Friendly Musicals A Year, As Well As Some Edgier Fare – Has Finally Found A Permanent Home Of Their Own. The company will take up residence once again in Lake Worth at 805 Lucerne Avenue, Lake Worth Beach, Florida 33460 and their first production, Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s Mary Poppins – The Broadway Musical will open there on Friday, November 13th, 2026 and run through Sunday, November 22nd, 2026. “We are absolutely thrilled to make this announcement,” says Entr’Acte Theatrix Founder and Executive Producer Vicki Halmos. “We have wandered around the County for far too many years; although we have been very lucky – our audiences have followed us wherever we’ve been – a permanent theatre of our own – that’s been our dream. This space, in the heart of Lake Worth, is just perfect for us. It’s small but extremely flexible, and it will allow us to expand in so many ways – rehearsal space will no longer be an issue, nor will performance days, times, and the length of our runs. “We also intend to run classes, and to host other companies in when appropriate – there are too many theatre groups and far too few venues in Palm Beach County; we hope we will be able to provide some of our smaller local companies with performance space when we can,” Halmos says. Entr’Acte Theatrix is an off-shoot of Vicki Halmos’ original theatre company, Palm Beach Principal Players, which was launched at the Creative Stage on Lucerne Avenue in 1999, so Entr’Acte has now come full circle and is back in Lake Worth. The company was developed to give young actors and theatre makers a chance to experience theatrical life – onstage and backstage. As the youngsters aged out, but wanted to continue, Entr’Acte evolved. Mary Poppins, one of the most popular Disney movies of all time, captured the hearts of theatre audiences of all ages immediately when it opened as Mary Poppins – The Broadway Musical at the New Amsterdam Theatre in 2006. The show ran for over 2,600 performances and received nominations for seven Tony Awards (and nine Olivier awards during its London run). Based on the beloved books by P.L. Travers, the story focuses on young Jane and Michael Banks, who have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she teaches the entire Banks family how to value each other again. “I am so happy to take on the challenge of directing one of the most beloved stories in existence,” says the show’s Director Carlo Sabusap. “Mary Poppins is about a family finding itself, finding its place in the world, about a father learning the importance of being a part of his family and not just the head of it, and realizing that his wife and children are more than just cogs in the clock. Mary Poppins comes in as a sort of mystical being who both challenges their dynamic and helps bring them closer to each other. I want to make sure that these characters are living breathing people – and that the audience will be fully immersed in their lives. “Audiences will be close to the action and perhaps may even participate in some of it,” he continues. “I also want to make sure the show has a very hand-made feel. Everything seen on stage will be made with human hands, and in this age of generative A.I. taking away the creativity and thoughtfulness of what we see and consume these days, I feel it is important that the “brush strokes” of the artists in this production are evident, whether it be the individual choices of the performers on stage, or the props and sets. In fact, we pride ourselves on providing our audiences with an intimate, interactive and immersive theatrical experience.” Sabusap has assembled a talented cast to create Mary Poppins’ magic: Carly Graefe will play Mary Poppins, and Elijah Rey will play Bert. Arabella Kostecki and Thalia Rodriguez are Jane and Michael Banks, and Greg Halmos and Jennifer Pedraza will take on the roles of George and Winnifred Banks. Other cast members include Sarah Glass as Katie Nana, Annie, and Ensemble, Nik Rosa as Robertson Ay and Neleus, Devra Seidel as Mrs. Brill and Mrs. Corry, Heidi Salonia as Mrs. Andrews and The Bird Woman, Ennalls Berl as The Bank Chairman and Admiral Boom, Alex Gomez as The Police Man, Mr. Von Hussler, and Ensemble, Luis Acosta as The Park Keeper, Mr. Northbrook, and Ensemble, and Alessia Prenda as Mrs. Lark, Valentine, and Ensemble. Shannon Harrell will understudy Mary Poppins. Along with director Sabusap, the Mary Poppins production crew includes Music Director Aaliyah Hirt, Choreographer Nicole Dikun, Stage Manager Milo O’Connor, Technical Director Elizabeth Southwell, Sound Technician Noah Rubio, and Costume Coordinator Ennals Berl. The show’s producers are Vicki Halmos and Greg Halmos. Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s Mary Poppins – The Broadway Musical will run from Friday, November 13th, 2026 – Sunday, November 22nd, 2026 at Entr’Acte Theatrix’ brand new venue at 805 Lucerne Avenue, Lake Worth Beach, Florida 33460. Tickets range in price from $25 – $50 and are on sale now. They can be purchased online at: https://palmbeachtheatre.org . Or by phone at: (954) 698-4939. (Please note: tickets purchased at the door will be $5 more). Previous Next

Shingles Raises Heart And Stroke Risk: Protect Yourself With Vaccination By Feature Impact Sep 17, 2026 Shingles Isn't Just A Painful Rash And Nerve Pain. It's Also Linked With A Higher Risk Of Serious Cardiovascular Events, Including Heart Attack And Stroke, Especially In The Weeks To Months After Infection. However, Shingles Is Largely Preventable With Vaccination. The world's leading NonProfit Organization focused on changing the future of health for all, the American Heart Association, reminds eligible adults to protect themselves by getting vaccinated and staying on top of their heart health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. will get Shingles in their lifetime. If you've had Chickenpox, the virus that causes Shingles, also known as Herpes Zoster, is already inside you. It can "wake up" years later, causing painful blisters and nerve pain that can last for months or longer. After a Shingles episode, one large study published in the "Journal of the American Heart Association" found the risk of Heart Attack and Stroke was nearly 30% higher in the short term and may persist over time. "Shingles can be very painful and knock you down for weeks," said Eduardo Sanchez, M.D., FAHA, the American Heart Association's Chief Medical Officer for Prevention. "It's also associated with a higher chance of Heart and Stroke problems afterward. If you're 50 or older, or have a weakened Immune System, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the Shingles Vaccine. It's a simple step that can keep you healthier." Knowing your risk is the first step toward prevention. Age is the most important risk factor for developing Shingles. As people age, their Immune Systems naturally weaken, making it easier for the virus to reactivate. People over 50, and especially those living with Heart Disease, Diabetes or other chronic illnesses, are more likely to develop Shingles. The risk of serious complications from Shingles increases: • As you get older • If you take drugs that keep your Immune System from working properly, like Steroids and drugs given after an Organ Transplant • If you have medical conditions that keep your Immune System from working properly such as certain Cancers like Leukemia and Lymphoma, or HIV Infection Heart Health Made Simpler In addition to ensuring you're up to date on your vaccines, talk to your health care professional about ways you can improve your overall Heart Health. According to the American Heart Association, Heart Disease remains the leading cause of death, taking more lives in the United States than any other cause. Following healthy lifestyle guidance like Life's Essential 8 can make inroads toward preventing Heart Disease and Stroke, and improving brain health. The set of four health behaviors (eat better, be more active, quit tobacco and get healthy sleep) and four health factors (manage weight, control Cholesterol, manage Blood Sugar and manage Blood Pressure) are key measures for improving and maintaining Cardiovascular Health. How to Get the Shingles Vaccine 1. Check eligibility: Recommended by the CDC for adults 50-plus and adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems. 2. Find a location: Most national pharmacies, many primary care and specialty clinics and local health departments offer it. Search your pharmacy's app or website, or call your clinician's office. 3. Book it: Make an appointment online or by phone. Same-day or walk-in options may be available at pharmacies. 4. Bring what you need: Photo ID, insurance card and a list of medicines and allergies. Wear a short-sleeve shirt, if you can. 5. Plan for two doses, 2-6 months apart: When you schedule dose one, set a reminder or book dose two before you leave. 6. Cost and coverage: Many health plans, including Medicare Part D, cover Shingles Vaccination at low or no cost. Check your benefits or ask the pharmacy to verify coverage. 7. After your shot: A sore arm, fatigue, headache or mild fever are common and usually go away in 2-3 days. Call your clinician about severe or persistent symptoms. 8. If you've had Shingles before: You can still get vaccinated after you recover. Ask your health care provider about timing. Protect Yourself (and Others) from Shingles If you have Shingles, you can stop the spread by covering the rash and avoiding touching or scratching it. You should also wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds, and avoid contact with people who may be at heightened risk until your rash scabs over, including: • Pregnant women who never had Chickenpox or the Chickenpox Vaccine • Premature or low-birthweight infants • People with weakened Immune Systems Signs and Symptoms of Shingles Symptoms to watch for: tingling, itching or burning on one side of the body or face; a stripe-like rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters; headache; fever; or chills. Act fast: If you think you have Shingles, contact your health care professional right away. Treatment works best within 72 hours of the rash appearing. If the rash is near your eye or you have eye pain or changes in vision, seek urgent care. Lasting impact: The rash typically scabs over and clears within 2-4 weeks, but the pain in the rash area can last about a month. The duration of pain seems to increase with age. Learn more at: www.heart.org/shingles . Photos courtesy of Shutterstock If you have Shingles, you can stop the spread by covering the rash and avoiding touching or scratching it. About 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. will get Shingles in their lifetime. Previous Next

UTAMA Comes To Aventura: Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival Fri Mar 10 2023 17:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Joseph A. Scarano Funeral Homes: “Once You Walk Through Those Doors, You Are Family” February 6, 2023 Share Joseph Scarano’s proud Italian Heritage has taught him compassion, warmth, hospitality and most importantly, the importance of family! At Joseph A. Scarano Funeral Homes their #1 Priority is to guide and support you through every step of your arrangements and help you to pay Tribute to the Memory of your loved ones. They think it is important for you to understand that Scarano Funeral Home is not just any Funeral Home - they are one with many years of experience. What sets them apart from other Funeral Firms? It's the human factor. “The difference is in the caring. It's not Business, it's Personal. Our reputation is earned…not inherited” Scarano states. In 1969 and at the early age of 15 he started his path. Joseph A. Scarano has over 50 years experience in the Funeral Business. With the love and support of his devoted parents, Larry and Terry Scarano and his loving sister Terry Ann, he opened the Pembroke Pines Location at 9000 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33024 in 1993. They are one of the few remaining Owned and Operated Funeral Homes in Pembroke Pines, Davie and Hollywood. They live by the order of the Golden Rule, no family is turned away due to lack of funds. “Once you walk through those doors, you are family,” Joseph said. They offer a Complete Range of Services Including: Pre-Arrangements for Traditional Funeral Services, Private Funeral Services, Direct Cremation, Celebration Of Life Memorial Services, Direct Burial and Worldwide Shipping Services. They believe in the "Freedom of Choice" and you can choose whatever Service you desire to meet your individual needs within your means. Since South Florida is home to many residents from other areas, Joseph A. Scarano Funeral Homes specializes in Domestic and International Shipping Services from anywhere in Florida. They work with Consulates and the Receiving Funeral Homes to ease the burden of Complicated Shipping Details. Their experienced and Dependable Staff can assist you and all Funeral Homes 24/7. The Scarano Experience Joseph A. Scarano is confident that his Staff will comfort you during your time of Grief. All of their locations are beautifully decorated, spacious, clean and above all, provide the warmest welcome to you and your family during your time of need. For your comfort and privacy, they do not schedule Multiple Services at the same time. You will receive 100% of their attention and will have exclusive use of their Facility. They welcome and Proudly Serve all Faiths, Cultures and Traditions. At Joseph A. Scarano Funeral Homes, all Customs are Observed and Respected. At Scarano Funeral Homes, Joseph A. Scarano, the Owner is directly involved in the day to day Operations of the Business and is intimately involved with each family. Lifetime Price Guarantee For as little as $100.00 Down you can plan and have peace of mind knowing you made it easier for those you love. Your Deposits are made to a Master Trust Fund maintained by the I.F.D.F. Independent Funeral Directors of Florida. There are No Interest or Finance Charges and it's 100% Refundable. Did you know you have the right to Transfer your Existing Prepaid Funeral Home Contract to Joseph A. Scarano with no extra cost to you? They welcome, accept and honor all of their Competitors’ Prepaid Contracts. Building A Legacy Of Memories As part of your Final Care Plans, you may want to secure your memories and stories. They offer guidelines in preparing for your On-Line Memorial Tribute, The Book of Memories™ and Companion Video. For those who live in Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Dania Beach, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines and Hallandale Beach who are faced with these decisions every day, the last thing that anyone needs is to be stressed with high prices and unnecessary charges that some Funeral Homes will throw at you - especially during a tough time. At Joseph A. Scarano Funeral Homes, years and years of experience have given them the edge in this Competitive Market. Telephone price inquiries are gladly given 24 hours a day. Scarano Presidential Circle Memorial Chapel 4351 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33021 E-mail: info@ScaranoFuneralHome.com Phone: (954) 438-8222 Scarano Pines Memorial Chapel 9000 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33024 E-mail: Info@ScaranoFuneralHome.com Phone: (954) 438-8222 Miami-Dade: (305) 945-7737 Toll Free: (800) 423-5901 www.scaranofuneralhome.com < Previous News Next News >

Book Early, Earn More: Lock In Your Family's Perfect Spring Getaway By Family Features Apr 16, 2026 If Winter's Chill Has You Dreaming Of Sunshine And Quality Time Together, It's The Perfect Moment To Start Planning Your Next Family Getaway. Spring Break May Feel Far Off, But Booking Early Means More Time To Look Forward To Reconnecting With The Whole Family In A Destination Full Of Enriching Experiences. Whether You're Seeking Excitement Or A Laid-Back Escape To Recharge, Now's The Time To Plan And Take Advantage Of The Season's Most Rewarding Offers. Designed for connection and comfort - from studios to sprawling three-bedroom suites - each Hyatt Vacation Club resort offers a resort experience with a refined sense of home, featuring fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, in-unit washers and dryers, and private balconies. Guests can linger over morning coffee, share home-cooked meals or unwind with a glass of wine under the stars. The in-room experience is just as exceptional as what awaits beyond it: luxurious pools, unique on-site activities, fine dining and more. Every detail is crafted to bring families and groups together, blending the ease of vacation with the inviting warmth of home. With more than 20 residential-style resorts sprinkled across North America and the Caribbean, the resorts offer guests and World of Hyatt members a chance to slow down and immerse in local experiences, breathtaking scenery or shared experiences that linger long after you leave. From ocean breezes in Key West to Pacific views in Cabo, Hyatt Vacation Club resorts offer freedom to explore and rewards that keep you coming back. For a limited time, members who register by Sunday, March 22nd, 2026, can earn 3,000 Bonus Points per night (up to 30,000 total) for stays at participating properties through Sunday, March 29th, 2026, just in time to make your spring break escape even more rewarding. When planning your spring break destination, consider these inspirational places that offer spacious accommodations, and find more information by visiting: www.Hyatt.com/HVC-3K-points . Your Gateway to Sedona's Great Outdoors: At Hyatt Vacation Club at Pinon Pointe, just off historic Route 66 in Sedona, Arizona, adventure begins right outside your door. Explore scenic hiking trails, ancient Native American ruins and landmarks that define this stunning desert landscape. Surrounded by Sedona's iconic red rocks, this Southwest retreat offers cozy studios and spacious two-bedroom villas - each with a full kitchen, living area, furnished balcony or patio and a fireplace. Guests can also enjoy a heated outdoor pool with desert views and curated on-site programming, from self-guided art walks to chakra and crystal workshops, that explore Sedona's spiritual history. Your Home Base on the California Coast: Perched high above the Pacific near the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Hyatt Vacation Club at Highlands Inn is a haven for couples, friends and families seeking both comfort and adventure. Spacious, residential-style suites with kitchens and private bedrooms make it easy to settle in while Big Sur's dramatic coastline calls you to explore. Drive the cliffs of Highway 1, hike hidden trails, unwind on sun-drenched beaches or toast the sunset with a glass of local wine. For those looking to immerse themselves even further, enjoy live piano performances in the lobby and guided botanical walks at the resort. Relaxation, Reimagined in the Texas Hill Country: Set amid 39 acres of rolling Hill Country landscape, Hyatt Vacation Club at Wild Oak Ranch invites guests to slow down and soak it all in. Float along an 800-foot lazy river, roast s'mores by your personal firepit or catch a movie under the stars. Surrounded by an award-winning golf course and 39 acres of lush landscaping and nature trails, this ranch-inspired haven encourages guests to enjoy the outdoors. If you're looking for fun on-site experiences for the family - or a chance to make new friends - you can enjoy guacamole-making classes and karaoke. Soak Up the Spirit of Puerto Rico: Soak up the beauty and charm of Puerto Rico from Hyatt Vacation Club at Hacienda del Mar, surrounded by warm tropical breezes, turquoise waters and Caribbean elegance. Set just 25 miles from historic San Juan along a prime stretch of famed Dorado Beach, this secluded seaside resort invites you to experience paradise with direct beach access, whirlpools and on-site activities like salsa dancing and art tours. Source: Hyatt Corporation Previous Next

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

The Hollywood Beach Half Marathon & 5K: Sun, Surf, Sand & A Premium Running Experience August 23, 2024 Share It's that time of year. Don’t miss out on the most unique event format in South Florida! The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk Half Marathon & 5K! Have you made your New Year’s resolutions yet? How about a half marathon to start off 2024, plus it could help you lose some holiday season weight. This isn't your traditional Half Marathon & 5K, you will be able to watch the sunrise over the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and hear the sounds of waves crashing as you run just steps from the beach! Win! Win! If that interests you then here is some good news. The Hollywood Beach Half Marathon and 5K is back in a few weeks at Hollywood North Beach Park. Hollywood Beach is a popular stop on the Elite Events South Florida Half Marathon Tour. Hollywood hosts multiple races this year, January & November. The beautiful pre-dawn and sunrise start and run along the Broadwalk are a huge draw for people from all over the U.S. The events take athletes through the eclectic, beautiful area and many stay in local hotels for the weekend. What To Expect The event features a start right near Hollywood North Beach Park. The course takes you through the iconic Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, an award-winning beach promenade featuring miles of pristine beach, a picturesque broadwalk, and an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The route follows the beach giving you spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, and the chance to feel the sand under your feet and the ocean breeze in your hair immediately after you finish. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this event has something to offer for everyone with both Half marathon and 5K options. At the start of the race runners will run along the picturesque Hollywood Broadwalk for miles as the sun comes up. A quick U-turn takes athletes back heading north on the Broadwalk with a good opportunity to see how your friends are doing amid magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. The course takes runners to North Surf Road to again run parallel to the Atlantic, running through a shaded tree tunnel before starting a second loop, until reaching nearly the end of the Broadwalk and Harry Berry Park. A beautiful finisher's medal for both the Half Marathon and 5K plus lots of snacks await at the finish line! As an added benefit you will also get a close up tour of the best that Hollywood Beach has to offer. Both races are also a part of the very popular South Florida Half Marathon Tour! But the fun doesn't stop at the finish line! Hollywood is a city that offers a great blend of culture, entertainment, and outdoor activities. After the race, treat yourself to a well-deserved meal at one of the many Seafood Restaurants, and explore the city's art scene by visiting one of the many galleries or the Artspark at Young Circle. Take a stroll on the beach, and enjoy the tranquil Gulf waters, or head back over to the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk for a leisurely walk with stunning views of the ocean. Hollywood also offers a variety of fun activities, perfect for families and friends such as visiting the Hollywood Beach Theater where you can enjoy free live performances, or visiting the Hollywood Trolley, an open-air bus that takes you around the city's famous sights and landmarks. Sign up for the Hollywood Beach Half Marathon & 5K run and you'll experience the best of both worlds: a challenging and rewarding run, and an unforgettable adventure in one of the most beautiful places in Florida. Can I Walk The Event? Walkers are welcome at all of the Elite Events! There is a 3.5 hour time limit for the half marathon. After 3.5 hours, the course will open up to traffic. At that point, you must obey all traffic laws as if you were a pedestrian. You will still receive your finisher medal as long as you are close to finishing after the 3.5 hour time limit. Police, Volunteers, and Race Crew will be dismissed after 3.5 hours. All of the finish line and event equipment will be cleaned up after 3.5 hours. Important Information Early Packet Pick Up: Friday November 1st, 2024 - Runner's Depot - Davie - 2233 South University Drive, Davie, Florida 33324 Race Day Packet Pick Up: 5:30 a.m. - 6:10 a.m. Time Limit: 3.5 hours Water Stops: There will be water and Gatorade about every 2 miles or less. Included With Entry Aside from being known for the best "swag" aka finisher medals and race shirts, Elite Events has their FREE Elite Events Tracker App at every race. The app allows spectators to track your progress live on the course and provides you with instant race results. Your accomplishments will be stored in their ‘Lifetime Stats’ database so you can keep track of all of your Elite Events results in one place and see how they stack up against every Elite Event participant ever! Download the Elite Events Tracker Mobile App at: https://rtrt.me/app/elitea for FREE. Awards Pick Up Since the event timing technology allows for live results, you are able to receive your award as soon as you cross the finish line. After you've enjoyed the complimentary post-race refreshments, report to the awards area where one of their team members will present you with your finish results and award. Parking There are only a little over 1,000 parking spots close to the race venue and start. It is highly recommended that you carpool, bike or stay at a nearby hotel. There is limited parking north of the Park available on the side streets at the Hollywood Beach Daily Rate. All athletes parking on the side streets must exit to the north (right) to East Dania Beach Road/A1A only. This event is not organized by the City of Hollywood, for more information about pricing and how to Register, visit: https://www.hollywoodhalf.com/fall---hollywood-beach-half-marathon--5k.html < Previous News Next News >

Welcome To 2025! And the Reflections On Cuba III Wed Jan 08 2025 17:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)