Broadway In The Botanical - The Concert Series Of The Season Celebrates The Voices Of Women In Musical Theatre Aventura Digest Mar 16, 2026 Area Stage Announces The Return Of Broadway In The Botanical, A Live Outdoor Concert Celebrating The Voices And Stories Of Women In Musical Theatre. The Performance Will Take Place On Saturday, April 11th, 2026 At 7:00 p.m. At The Miami Beach Botanical Garden, Offering Audiences A Distinctive Cultural Experience Set Amid One Of Miami Beach’s Most Scenic Outdoor Venues. Directed by award-winning Artistic Director Giancarlo Rodaz, Broadway in the Botanical is now in its third iteration and has become a signature spring event for Area Stage. The concert features a curated selection of iconic Broadway musical theatre songs, performed by a mix of professional and emerging theatre artists, highlighting work from the women who have shaped musical theatre’s most enduring works. Designed as a relaxed, open-air experience, the concert appeals to a wide range of audiences, from devoted Broadway fans to those seeking a fun date night, a family-friendly evening out, or a unique cultural outing under the stars. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy live theatre in a welcoming, communal setting that blends music, nature, and storytelling. In the event of inclement weather, this event may be rescheduled. Members of the press are invited to attend. Interviews with the director and performers, high-resolution images, and additional materials are available upon request. Event Details Date: Saturday, April 11th, 2026 Time: 7:00 p.m. Location: Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139 Tickets: www.eventbrite.com/e/1980197087795/?aff=oddtdtcreator About Area State Founded in 1989 by John and Maria Rodaz, Area Stage began as one of the pioneers of the Miami Beach arts community on Lincoln Road. Now celebrating over 36 years of artistic excellence, this non-profit theater company has become one of South Florida’s most influential cultural institutions, dedicated to artistic innovation, education, and accessibility to the arts. In addition to its acclaimed Mainstage productions, Area Stage houses a world-class Conservatory, providing professional training to hundreds of young aspiring artists each year. The company is also home to the Inspire Theatre Project, which offers meaningful performance opportunities to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Recently, Area Stage was honored with the 2024 and 2025 Miami Dade Favorites Silver Award, a testament to its lasting impact on the community. Committed to pushing artistic boundaries and fostering the next generation of performers, Area Stage continues to provide extraordinary theatrical experiences to the Miami community and beyond. Previous Next

The Price Is Right In More Ways Than One At Toyota Of Hollywood South Florida Sun Times Aug 27, 2026 Come On Down For An AmaZINN Opportunity! Toyota Of Hollywood And CBS Miami (WFOR-TV) Are Teaming Up To Once Again Host An Open Casting Call For The Price Is Right. Hosted By Drew Carey, The Price Is Right Is Television’s Longest-Running Game Show Where Audience Members Try To Win Cash And Prizes. The contestant search will take place inside the Toyota of Hollywood showroom on Friday, August 28th, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Two semifinalists will be selected from the South Florida casting call and will receive a trip to Los Angeles for an additional interview. One of the two semifinalists may then be selected to compete as a contestant on an episode of The Price Is Right. Audition Process: Each participant will have approximately 30 seconds to audition in front of a camera. During the audition, casting producers may ask questions such as, "Why do you want to be a contestant on The Price Is Right?" or "Why do you think you'd make a great contestant?" For casting tips and audition advice, please visit: https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/the-price-is-right-contestant-search-miami-south-florida-august-28-2026/ . Entrance: Admission is free, and no purchase is necessary. All participants must check in at the registration table before they can audition. Registration: All participants must download and complete the contestant application and sign the required release and waiver before auditioning. Applications must be submitted at the casting call, and only one application per person will be accepted. To ensure a timely process, participants are encouraged to download and complete the forms before arriving by visiting: https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/the-price-is-right-contestant-search-miami-south-florida-august-28-2026/ . Eligibility: Participants must be legal U.S. residents currently residing in one of the 50 states or Washington, D.C. They must also be 18 or older at the time of the application and meet additional eligibility requirements as outlined in the registration form. When: Friday, August 28th, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. CBS Miami has the right to close the registration line at any time to ensure everyone in line has the chance to try out before 3:00 p.m. Where: Toyota of Hollywood 1841 North State Road 7 Hollywood, Florida 33021 How: For more details and to download and print the registration form, please visit: https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/the-price-is-right-contestant-search-miami-south-florida-august-28-2026/ . Cost: Free About Craig Zinn Automotive Group As President and CEO of Craig Zinn Automotive Group, Craig Zinn owns and operates Lexus of Pembroke Pines, Toyota of Hollywood, Subaru of Pembroke Pines, Lexus of North Miami, Acura of Pembroke Pines, and the recently expanded and upgraded Toyota of Hollywood’s Pre-Owned super center, Amazinn Used Cars, offering new and used makes and models. Additionally, a new dealership in Kendall is on the way, further expanding the group's presence in South Florida. The company’s mission is to be South Florida’s finest automobile dealership group, known for superior products, community involvement, and for helpful, courteous, and caring associates dedicated to delivering the ultimate client service experience. It is also passionate about community service as evident by its philanthropic endeavors. Over the course of 40+ years, it has made charitable contributions to the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation, the Humane Society of Broward County, Nicklaus Children's Hospital Spread Joy Toy Drive, CBS’ Neighbors 4 Neighbors Adopt A Family 4 the Holidays Operation Elf Program, Subaru's annual Share the Love event, and Light-Up the Harbor for Children's Harbor, to name a few. Headquartered out of Hollywood, Florida, the corporate team can be found at Toyota of Hollywood located at 1841 North State Road 7, Hollywood, Florida 33021. Or: https://www.czgroup.com/ . It can also be found on Facebook at: @zinnautogroup. The contestant search will take place inside the Toyota of Hollywood showroom on Friday, August 28th, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Each participant will have approximately 30 seconds to audition in front of a camera. Previous Next

Boil Water Notices…Now What? By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper Apr 23, 2026 Over The Past Week, There Was A Water Main Break On Golden Isles Drive. While The Leak Was Detected And Repairs Performed Quickly By Our Staff At Dpw There Needed To Be A Boil Water Notice For The Impacted Area Along Golden Isles Drive. This Particular Line Impacted Pressure To South Ocean Drive. I Received Some Questions About The Lack Of Notice To The Barrier Island, So I Wanted To Share With Our Readers Some Insights On This Topic. Not all Water Shut Offs require Boil Water Notices. Our professional Staff can do repairs under low pressure trying to avoid boiling water requirements. This is the ideal scenario but in other cases water “may” become contaminated with soil and bacteria at the break. Boil Water Notices are considered “precautionary.” Either way they should be followed due to exposure to bacteria. When buildings turn their water off intentionally for repairs to equipment or unit owner construction you do not need to boil your water. I get this a lot due to the fact pipe sediment can build up and then get flushed out. Sediment in water can look disgusting, but it is not bacteria. I certainly would not drink it. I tell residents to run their water a bit until it is totally flushed out of the system. These breaks are unfortunate and can be for various reasons. A faulty valve can leak loose soil conditions around the valve and weaken the line then it breaks. This can also happen simply with old water main lines. This is why we are proactively replacing water mains throughout the city. We are also adding valves so less customers are impacted when there is a break. The lines called lateral connections to buildings can also break. In this case it requires Water Shut Offs to the building. It can also mean shut offs in the surrounding areas. Within the system there are a series of valves depending on where the water value is located within the main. This is what happened with the Golden Isles break. If a break is located past the Water Meter on the building side the condominium is required to do the repair. This is the same for any type of property. Water and Sewer Lines beyond the meter are the owner’s responsibility. Before last Friday’s break on Golden Isles, we had an incident at the Hemispheres. There was a leak on their side of the meter and it actually created a sinkhole around the leak. It was repaired but all the water had to be shut off. We also have had many planned shut offs on Three Islands during the replacement project. They have been on a Boil Water Notice for a couple of weeks. So, what if you receive a Boil Water Notice? You cannot use water for consumption. It must be brought to a rolling boil first. You can use it for washing, dishwasher, laundry, and other cleaning tasks. The Boil Water Notice cannot be lifted until two clean tests come back, confirming the water is safe. It is typical that the notices only last 48 hours. Our Staff really works hard to get the test results back as soon as they can. So, what happens if you do not get a notice? First, if you drink the water not knowing, you could suffer from diarrhea and/or vomiting. This would be the worst-case scenario. Remember it is precautionary so the water may or may not be impacted. If it continues you should see a healthcare provider. What is more important is you need to sign up for notifications. We are proactive when it comes to notifications. We cannot make residents sign up but like the saying goes, “better safe than sorry.” We use various methods. We will post on our City's Website, and Social Media accounts. Depending on the area and type of break we may do a robocall. You can sign up on our website at: www.cohb.org . I also like to follow up and send out notices on my Social Media: @MayorCooper, Facebook at: Friends of Mayor Joy Cooper. We are doing our part to upgrade our systems. We know it is messy and often inconvenient, but these projects are taking us into the future! We are protecting our Water and Sewer Resources for years to come. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit me on my Facebook page at: Mayor Joy Cooper. Like! Follow! And share! Previous Next

Many Lessons From A Few Hours In Jenin By Moshe Phillips Jan 7, 2025 Israeli security forces spent a few hours in the Palestinian Authority city of Jenin earlier this month. The incident didn’t make much news, but there’s much to be learned from it. Let’s start with the extent of the terrorist presence in the city. The Israelis managed to eliminate a total of nine armed terrorists, and uncovered four explosives laboratories. The city is literally riddled with bomb-making sites—yet somehow the PA police never noticed them. Some of the terrorists were killed by Israeli air strikes, which then set off “multiple secondary explosions,” according to the Israeli Army spokesman. That indicated “the presence of weapons caches.” Israeli forces also “neutralized dozens of explosives planted along routes intended to target Israeli soldiers.” What a city! Explosives labs. Weapons caches. Terrorists busily planted dozens of bombs on various roads. Yet not a single member of the PA police or security forces ever noticed them. Amazing! The PA has been the sole governing authority in Jenin since 1995. For twenty-nine years, the U.S.-trained PA security forces have been in charge. That security force began as a 12,000-man “strong police force,” according to Article VII of the first Oslo Accord. It grew into a 60,000-man “security force” that has become a de-facto army. What are the PA security forces required to do in cities such as Jenin? The Oslo Agreement says they must “apprehend, investigate and prosecute perpetrators and all other persons directly or indirectly involved in acts of Terrorism, violence and incitement.” (Annex I, Article II, 3-c of Oslo II). The PA has ignored that obligation for three decades now. It doesn’t arrest Terrorists, it doesn’t shut down their explosives labs or confiscate their weapons depots, as the Israeli forces discovered, yet again, in Jenin this week. According to the World Atlas, the PA has the sixth-largest per-capita security force in the world—an astonishing 1,250 “police officers” per 100,000 people. The Washington Institute for Near East Policy has reported that “by late 1998, the PA security services…had in almost every regard violated the letter of the agreements reached with Israel,” turning the Palestinian Authority governed areas into “one of the most heavily policed territories in the world.” Yet somehow those PA security forces can’t find a single bomb-making lab after 29 years in Jenin, while the Israelis found four of them over the space of a few hours. Now let’s take a look at how the PA responded to the latest Israeli operation in Jenin. The Palestinian Authority's leaders should have been celebrating, right? After all, the State Department, the United Nations, and J Street keep telling us that the PA is opposed to terrorism. Peace Now and the Washington Post insist that the PA is “moderate” and is against the “extremists.” So the PA should have been delighted that the Israelis were catching and eliminating terrorists. Not quite. The PA’s official news agency, Wafa, denounced “the Israeli assault on Jenin city.” It accused the Israelis of “killing young men” (not terrorists) and “besieging a house” (not a terrorist hideout). Wafa also claimed Israel was causing “widespread destruction,” and “targeting emergency responders.” In short, what the Palestinian Authority wanted the Palestinian Arab public to believe is that evil Israel is once again massacring innocent young Arabs, destroying their cities, and murdering their emergency medics. In short, the PA wants the Arab public to hate Israel and Jews. Some peace partner! There was one final note of irony in the Wafa report. It concluded by mentioning that following the operation, “the Israeli military has withdrawn” from Jenin. Well, isn’t that odd? Israel’s critics are constantly claiming that Israel “occupies” those territories. If so, why are they withdrawing? Where are they going? Who is left to “occupy” Jenin? The answer, of course, is that the “occupation” claim is a lie. The Wafa report accidentally let the cat out of the bag. There are no Israeli “occupiers.” They went into Jenin for a few hours, hit the terrorists, and left. Which is how it’s been for the last 29 years, since the day the occupation ended. So there you have it in a nutshell: An enormous sized PA security force that refuses to enforce security, a “peaceful” PA that incites the public to war against Israel, and an “occupational” lie that is spread even when the Palestinian Authority itself admits there are no Israeli occupiers. Just another Thursday in the Middle East! (Moshe Phillips is National Chairman of Americans For a Safe Israel (AFSI), a leading pro-Israel advocacy and education organization.) Previous Next

The South Florida Sun Times is a weekly publication that covers Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, North Miami Beach, Dania Beach, Bal Harbor, Bay Harbor, Surfside, Pembroke Park, & Pembroke Pines. We distribute the Sun Times each Thursday to condos, single family homes, businesses, news racks, and mail subscription and online.

Stars & Stirrups Market At Carousel Club At Gulfstream Park South Florida Sun Times Jul 2, 2026 Celebrate Independence Day With An Afternoon Of Shopping, Live Horse Racing, And Outdoor Entertainment At Carousel Club At Gulfstream Park's Stars & Stirrups Market On Saturday, July 4th, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Guests Can Enjoy A Lively Open-Air Market Featuring A Variety Of Local Vendors Offering Unique Gifts, Jewelry, Housewares, Pet Treats, Food, Body Care Products, Apparel, And More — All While Taking In The Excitement Of A Thrilling Day At The Races. Food And Beverage Offerings From Gulfstream Park Will Also Be Available For Purchase Throughout The Event. Guests can shop a growing lineup of local vendors, including Candle Café, featuring handmade candles, body oils, body butters, and apothecary products; King of Hummus, offering homemade hummus, Mediterranean olives, and tapas-inspired specialties; and By Ari, a trendy boutique showcasing curated apparel and accessories ranging from trucker hats and keychains to dresses and designer bikinis. Additional vendors and offerings will be announced in the coming weeks. Interested vendors are invited to inquire about participating by contacting Lindsay Rousso at: Lindsay.Rousso@gulfstreampark.com . For more information, please visit: https://www.gulfstreampark.com/event/entertainment/stars-and-stirrups-market-at-carousel-club/ Taste at the Track: Tacos & Tequila Enjoy an unlimited tasting experience and take in the live racing action at Taste at the Track: Tacos & Tequila, Saturday, July 25th, 2026. Sip and sample your way through bold bites and smooth cocktails while you watch and wager on live thoroughbred racing. Indulge in a variety of Latin-inspired dishes, paired with your favorite premium tequilas, mezcal, and handcrafted cocktails. The Flamingo Room, located on the 3rd floor of Gulfstream Park, boasts elevated views of the racetrack. General Admission: $65 per person, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. VIP: $85 per person, 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Get a bonus hour of food and tastings, plus priority seating). For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit: https://www.gulfstreampark.com/event/entertainment/Tacos-and-tequila-july-2026/ Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Must be 21+ to attend, tax and fees not included. Gulfstream Park Located at 901 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009, Gulfstream Park & The Village at Gulfstream Park, owned and operated by 1/ST, the consumer-facing brand of The Stronach Group, has been one of the country's premier Thoroughbred horse racing venues since 1939. In addition to live Thoroughbred horse racing, Gulfstream Park offers two floors of exciting casino gaming entertainment. Level 1 features the perfect blend of racing simulcasts and slot machines, while Level 2 offers additional slot gaming, live entertainment, and interactive promotions. Guests can enjoy more than 600 Las Vegas-style slot machines, including electronic table games, as well as a variety of engaging promotions and tournaments. Ideally situated between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Miami International Airport, and just one mile from the Atlantic Ocean, Gulfstream Park & The Village at Gulfstream Park is South Florida's premier entertainment destination. The property features an open-air lifestyle center with an international collection of restaurants, world-class art galleries, a bowling alley, outdoor cafés, fashion boutiques, health and beauty services, and a diverse array of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences. Gulfstream Park is located at 901 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009 Instagram: @gulfstreampark For more information about Gulfstream Park & The Village at Gulfstream Park, please visit: www.gulfstreampark.com . Enjoy the excitement of a thrilling day at the races. - Credit Adinayev Gulfstream Park is located at: 901 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009 - Credit Gulfstream Park Previous Next

Travelers Are Resigned To Paying More And Getting Less. Do They Deserve This? By Christopher Elliott Oct 23, 2025 Don't Look Now, But Air Travelers Are Paying More And Getting Less -- And They're Fine With It. Sure, when Southwest Airlines killed its "bags fly free" policy earlier this year, there was a brief outcry from passengers. But then they went right back to booking on the former low-fare carrier -- and paying extra for checked luggage. Here's the reason, according to experts: There's a growing sense of resignation among American travelers. Simply put, they think they deserve both the expensive prices and the extra fees. After all, they kept making booking decisions based solely on price -- and the airlines took advantage, making super-low fares prominent but then piling on surprise surcharges. "It’s disheartening," says Anton Radchenko, CEO of AirAdvisor. "The increasing trend of cutting back on essential services -- like free checked baggage or basic seat selection -- is undermining what used to be a standard part of air travel." This idea that travelers deserve to pay more but get less extends beyond the airline industry. Hotels do it when they start charging their guests for extras that used to be standard amenities, or imposing "resort" fees. Cruise lines do it when they add mandatory tips to your folio. It's been going on for years, but now it's finally stuck, experts say. But why are people being such pushovers? Is anyone resisting this ridiculous trend? And what can you do about it? It turns out you are not powerless, even though you may think you are. Why travelers think they deserve to pay more and get less! Why are travelers so accepting of this idea that they should pay more and get less? "Years of conditioning and poor customer service have led consumers to believe that the travel industry standard is paying more for less," explains Mario Matulich, President of CMP, a customer service consultancy. "Airlines and hotels want consumers to select the lowest upfront price, so they can then nickel-and-dime them with hidden fees on the back end." Breaking out the extras is something J.D. Power calls disaggregation. It’s driven by the way that consumers shop for airfare. Air travelers have more information than they used to, but fares to a given destination are usually ranked by ticket price, with the lowest first. "Airlines quickly realized that their airfares needed to be near the top of these lists before consumers would choose their brand," says Michael Taylor, a Senior Managing Director for Travel and Hospitality at J.D. Power. So unbundling services could allow the airline to lower the basic fare, causing their flights to rise to the top of the search results. But there's also a psychological aspect to this. Because travelers choose these low prices, they are often made to feel that they should also accept lower service levels along with higher costs, once you've factored in all these fees. (Airline apologists alternate between praising the "miracle" of air travel and scolding with a "you-get-what-you-paid-for" lecture.) "Research suggests travelers feel guilty because they've always chosen price over overall service quality," notes Kevin Shahnazari, CEO of the financial advice site FinlyWealth. "But with each instance of customers choosing the lowest fare ticket or bed rate, they inadvertently send the message to businesses that cost is more significant than overall service." But travelers shouldn't feel responsible or even guilty. Just because someone chooses a lower fare doesn't mean they asked for -- or that they deserve -- a degraded product at a higher price. Some travelers are not OK with the new reality. Not all travelers are OK with the pay-more-get-less reality. Frequent, experienced travelers like Stan King don't like this trend. "The whole value proposition has been lost," he says. And he chafes at the idea that passengers somehow deserve less service when they pay a lower price.. King says for him, the only way to escape reality is to upgrade to a bigger room or a better seat. But even when he does, he says travel companies are still stingy. Gerri Hether, a frequent leisure traveler, chafes at the suggestion that somehow she's responsible for the state of affairs. "How can customers be remotely responsible for junk fees?" she wonders. But the reality is this: Despite the anger and complaining, travelers continue to buy fares and book rooms from companies that have stopped caring about a quality product. And that's all that matters. What can you do to escape a buy-more-get-less travel industry? This will only end when travelers say "enough," according to industry experts. 1. Look for ways to beat the system. "There are measures you can take to get around the service cuts," says Frances Rahaim, a financial coach and consumer advocate. For example, she sidestepped luggage fees altogether by buying an underseat-sized bag from IT Luggage and used vacuum seal bags to minimize clothing space, allowing her to fit in more of her belongings. You can also try wearable luggage by apparel companies such as Scottevest. 2. Reject bad service. "Don't accept service cuts without question," says AirAdvisor's Radchenko. That's especially true if an airline reduces service by downgrading you or canceling your flight but is required to pay you under the law. Radchenko says that's an area where many passengers are under-informed -- and they leave money on the table. 3. Find the honest companies and give them your business. "Reward companies with transparent pricing models," says Shahnazari of FinlyWealth. There are still airlines and hotels that don't believe in the pay-more-get-less-model, but you have to do some research. Full-service hotels like Marriott and InterContinental still offer a more inclusive experience, and international airlines like Qatar Airways don't nickel-and-dime you for luggage. But they're few and far between. But the biggest way to disrupt this dangerous trend is to say "no" whenever you see it, according to experts. "Passengers have to insist on greater openness and reject nickel-and-diming as the standard," says Deepak Shukla, CEO of Pearl Lemon Adventures, a travel agency. Do we have to accept this? All of this raises a bigger question: Have customers lost their power? I've been covering the travel industry for three decades, and travel companies -- particularly airlines -- have consistently tried to charge passengers more while delivering less. And the rest of the travel industry has followed along. But in the last year, it feels like businesses have felt more empowered to deliver substandard service at a higher price. It also seems as if customers have given them permission, if not their approval. The evidence of that is obvious: They are rewarding these travel companies with their business. Unfortunately, this will continue until consumers realize that they are the only ones who can reverse course and return to a time when airlines, hotels and cruise lines delivered quality service at a fair price. In other words, no one is coming to save you. Maybe we have to save ourselves. Christopher Elliott is an Author, Consumer Advocate, and Journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a NonProfit Organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can reach him here or email him at: chris@elliott.org . Previous Next

The South Florida Sun Times is a weekly publication that covers Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, North Miami Beach, Dania Beach, Bal Harbor, Bay Harbor, Surfside, Pembroke Park, & Pembroke Pines. We distribute the Sun Times each Thursday to condos, single family homes, businesses, news racks, and mail subscription and online. Sending a Press Release How to send a press release: Mail - Please label envelope "Press Release" Mail to South Florida Sun Times, 1001 North Federal Highway Suite 253, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009 E-mail - Please send your release to "sfsuntimes@aol.com " and attach or paste release and photos. Submissions can be no longer that two typewritten pages and must be sent to our office at least 10 days prior to the desired date of publication. Submission does not guarantee that release will be published. South Florida Sun Times reserves the right to edit all releases and editorials as necessary. No more than two photos per release with identification for each photo. Unless requested photos may not be returned.

JCS Matzah Mitzvah 2026 - This Passover, More Than 500 Seniors Are Counting On Us South Florida Sun Times Feb 25, 2026 On Sunday, March 8th, 2026 At 9:00 a.m. Sharp, Hundreds Of Volunteers Will Gather With A Shared Purpose: To Ensure That More Than 500 Homebound Seniors And Holocaust Survivors Feel Remembered, Honored, And Cared For This Passover. The Annual JCS Matzah Mitzvah Returns In 2026 With Renewed Energy, Deeper Connection, And A Clear Message To The Community — Our Seniors Are Counting On You. Organized by Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS), this beloved initiative transforms the weeks before Passover into a hands-on experience of kindness. Volunteers don’t just pack food; they deliver dignity. They don’t simply assemble baskets; they carry stories, heritage, and human connection straight to the doorsteps of those who need it most. And this year, spots are filling quickly. A Morning That Matters The day begins promptly at 9:00 a.m. at two community locations: • North - Scheck Hillel Community School • South - Bet Shira Congregation From the moment volunteers arrive, the atmosphere is charged with purpose. Tables fill with Passover essentials — matzah, shelf-stable holiday foods, and thoughtfully selected personal hygiene items. Every box is assembled with care, knowing that for many recipients, this delivery is more than practical support — it is a lifeline to the community. Clients expect their deliveries between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., making punctuality essential. Delivery assignments are first come, first served. Arriving late may mean missing the opportunity to deliver. This is not a drop-in event. It is a coordinated mission. More Than a Basket Passover is a holiday rooted in memory, resilience, and freedom. For Holocaust Survivors in our community, those themes are deeply personal. A holiday basket is not simply a convenience; it is a reaffirmation that their lives and stories matter. Many recipients are over 80 or 90 years old. Some live alone. Others are physically unable to shop or prepare for the holiday without assistance. Through JCS Matzah Mitzvah, volunteers bridge the gap between isolation and inclusion. Each knock on the door carries warmth. Each smile exchanged reinforces that no one is forgotten. Participation requires commitment — and that’s part of what makes it meaningful. Volunteers will dedicate up to four hours to both packing and delivering Passover food and personal hygiene baskets. Packing only is not allowed; every participant completes the full experience. Delivery drivers should be prepared to travel 25+ miles if needed. Assignments depend on demand and geography, and flexibility ensures that every senior receives their package on time. All volunteers over age 18 must be registered in advance. Children under 18 no longer need to register, but must be accompanied by an adult for the entirety of the event. Registration closes on March 1st, 2026. There will be no walk-ins or guest changes after that date. All guests must present their registration ticket and photo ID at the door. Without these items, entry will be denied. These guidelines aren’t barriers — they’re safeguards that allow the operation to run smoothly and respectfully for the vulnerable clients who depend on it. The Vibe: Community, Caring, Connection Step into the packing room and you’ll feel it immediately. Multi-generational volunteers working side by side. Parents teaching children about giving back. Teens lifting boxes. Adults coordinating routes. Friends laughing as they tape packages shut. Then comes the delivery — often the most moving part of the morning. Volunteers are welcomed into living rooms adorned with family photos and memories of decades past. Conversations unfold about childhood Seders, immigration journeys, grandchildren, and hope. Sometimes the exchange lasts just a few minutes. Sometimes it lingers. But it always matters. This is what a community looks like in action. Matzah Mitzvah is a reflection of this mission — practical support delivered with compassion. Why Your Participation Matters The need is real. More than 500 seniors and Holocaust Survivors are expecting deliveries this year. Many rely on fixed incomes. Some have limited family nearby. All deserve to celebrate Passover with dignity. By showing up, you become part of something larger than yourself: • You preserve memory. • You strengthen community bonds. • You honor resilience. • You ensure that no elder feels forgotten. And in return, volunteers often say they receive far more than they give. Important Details at a Glance Matzah Mitzvah 2026 Sunday, March 8th, 2026 9:00 a.m. (arrive on time) • Registration closes: March 1st, 2026 • No walk-ins permitted. • Photo ID and confirmation ticket required for entry. • Ages 18+ must register. • Children must be accompanied by an adult. • Packing and delivery required. All deliveries are first come, first served. Arriving promptly ensures you will receive a delivery assignment. Ways to Get Involved Beyond Volunteering Not everyone can attend in person — but everyone can help. Financial contributions directly support the purchase of food, hygiene items, and logistical coordination required to reach hundreds of households in just one morning. There are moments in the year that define who we are as a community. JCS Matzah Mitzvah is one of them. It is not glamorous. It is not complicated. It is simply neighbors helping neighbors — honoring elders who helped build the very community we cherish today. To donate to the 2026 JCS Matzah Mitzvah Campaign, click here: https://jcsfl.org/matzah-mitzvah-donate/ To sponsor JCS Matzah Mitzvah 2026, please click here: https://jcsfl.org/matzah-mitzvah-sponsor/ Eligibility On March 8th, 2026, tables will fill with matzah. Cars will fill with boxes. Doorbells will ring. And in homes across Miami-Dade County, seniors and Holocaust Survivors will feel the warmth of being remembered. Spots are filling quickly. Registration closes March 1st, 2026. Show up. Pack with purpose. Deliver with heart. Because this Passover, more than 500 seniors are counting on us. A Century of Service Since 1920, Jewish Community Services of South Florida has remained true to its original mission of providing exemplary social services through compassionate and comprehensive programs that help people stay healthy and productive. By partnering with our funding agencies, sister organizations and local leaders, JCS continuously strengthens and solidifies its outreach and its impact. In this way, JCS continues to be a beacon of help, healing and hope as it addresses current needs with these three divisions: Children & Youth Services JCS specializes in compassionate services that address the unique needs of children, adolescents and young adults. From mental health counseling and addiction treatment to violence prevention and mentoring initiatives, JCS has programs to assist youth in any situation or circumstance. In keeping with our efforts to deliver help in neighborhood settings, many programs are offered at JCS offices, area schools, synagogues and community centers. Adult & Family Services JCS’ network of services assists adults and families of all incomes in ways that strengthen individuals, marriages, relationships and family units, contributing to a healthier community. Those searching for mental health counseling, job assistance, support for survivors of domestic abuse and a variety of other services can count on JCS’ professional staff for effective treatment and guidance. JCS is here to help in times of stress, strife and adversity with a range of quality programs. Senior Support Services Those over 60 are urged to take advantage of JCS’ in-depth experience and expertise. Our number one priority is keeping seniors active, healthy and living in their own homes — for as long as it is safe and appropriate. From locations throughout Miami-Dade County, JCS helps clients maintain their dignity and independence with diverse initiatives that include home care, personal emergency response systems, home-delivered meals, care management, adult day care and transportation services. For questions, please contact Jake Rider, JCS Community Engagement Specialist, at: jrider@jcsfl.org . Previous Next

Get Ready For Epic Family Fun - See The World’s Most Popular Monster Jam Trucks And Best Drivers Roar Into The Amerant Bank Arena South Florida Sun Times Jul 10, 2025 Experience Monster Jam® live and become a fan for life with an ultimate day of family fun at the Amerant Bank Arena on Saturday, August 2nd, 2025 - Sunday, August 3rd, 2025. Get ready to cheer, scream, and be amazed as massive Monster Jam trucks and world champion drivers take over Sunrise for a weekend packed with high-flying action and jaw-dropping stunts. This isn’t just any event—it’s As Big As It Gets; where 12,000-pound trucks stand on two wheels and fly through the air in competitions of speed and skill. It’s all happening at Monster Jam, where every moment is unexpected, unscripted, and unforgettable. Get Your Tickets Before They’re Gone! Tickets are on sale now at: www.SeatGeek.com . Monster Jam Preferred Customers get the first chance to snag the best seats; fans can still sign up for free to grab an exclusive pre-sale code. The general public can purchase tickets that started as of Tuesday, April 29th, 2025. Feel the Thrill of Full-Throttle Fun Get ready for non-stop excitement as Sunrise roars to life with gravity-defying stunts, heart-pounding races, and plenty of big air! The world’s best drivers tear up on the dirt as they battle for the Event Championship in four competitions: Racing, Skills, Donuts, and everyone’s favorite, Freestyle, where Monster Jam trucks defy the laws of physics and do the impossible. Fans will be right in the middle of the action, helping to crown the Event Champion as they get to score the drivers in real time based on their skills, stunts, and saves. Start the Fun Early at the Monster Jam Pit Party The day of fun starts at the Monster Jam Pit Party on Saturday and Sunday, where families can get up close and personal with these massive trucks, snap a selfie, meet their favorite drivers, and collect autographs. It’s the perfect way to start a day of adrenaline-charged fun, packed with family-friendly activities. Don’t Miss the Monster Jam Trackside Experience Arrive early and get revved up with Monster Jam Trackside, happening about an hour before the event. It’s packed with driver interviews, pit crew sneak peeks, and epic giveaways that’ll get everyone pumped up before the action begins. Then, watch as the opening ceremonies set the stage for non-stop Monster Jam madness! Meet the Superstars of Monster Jam! These aren’t just any drivers—they’re world-class male and female athletes who have mastered controlling these 12,000-pound beasts. Whether pulling off insane backflips, nailing vertical 2-wheel tricks, or tearing up the track in all-out racing, these drivers are ready to wow fans with the most mind-blowing live motorsports action around. When: Saturday, August 2nd, 2025 Event Time - 12:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. Pit Party open from 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (12:00 p.m. - Event Ticket & Pit Party Pass required for entry) Sunday, August 3rd, 2025 Event Time - 1:00 p.m. Pit Party open from 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (1:00 p.m. - Event Ticket & Pit Party Pass required for entry) Where: Amerant Bank Arena – One Panther Parkway, Sunrise, Florida 33323 Tickets: Gravity-defying action, down-to-earth prices! Tickets and Pit Party Passes are now available for purchase online at: www.SeatGeek.com . *Ticket prices subject to change – additional venue/ticketing fees may apply Truck Lineup: Grave Digger® driven by Weston Anderson; El Toro Loco® driven by MJ Solorio; Zombie® driven by Bari Musawwir; Over Bored driven by Jamey Garner; Wild Side driven by Zack Garner; Black Pearl driven by Cole Venard; Bad Company driven by John Gordon; TBD driven by TBA. **Truck and driver line-up subject to change Previous Next

Celebrate National Sandwich Month One Bite At A Time South Florida Sun Times Aug 13, 2026 August Is National Sandwich Month, Making It The Perfect Time To Celebrate One Of The World's Most Beloved Comfort Foods. From Hearty Breakfast Bagels And Gourmet Club Sandwiches To Authentic Mediterranean Wraps, South Florida Is Home To An Impressive Variety Of Sandwich Destinations That Showcase Fresh Ingredients, Bold Flavors, And Creative Craftsmanship. Whether You're Craving A Satisfying Morning Meal, A Classic Lunchtime Favorite, Or An Internationally Inspired Handheld Creation, These Three Standout Restaurants Are Serving Memorable Sandwiches Worth Adding To Your Must-Try List This Month. Bakey: Freshly Baked Goodness from Morning to Afternoon Bringing its signature "Love, Always" philosophy to South Florida, Bakey has quickly become a favorite destination in Hallandale Beach for guests seeking freshly baked breads, premium coffee, and handcrafted meals. Everything at Bakey is prepared with care using high-quality ingredients, and with ovens running throughout the day, guests can always expect warm, freshly baked breads and pastries straight from the kitchen. For National Sandwich Month, Bakey's soft challah bagel sandwiches offer a unique twist on classic breakfast and brunch favorites. The bakery's signature challah bagel combines the rich flavor of challah bread with the satisfying texture of a traditional bagel, creating the perfect foundation for several standout sandwiches. The Avocado Toast is a fresh and flavorful option featuring creamy avocado layered with cream cheese, Fresno chilis, salt, and pepper for just the right balance of richness and subtle heat. Those looking for a heartier breakfast can enjoy the Egg Breakfast Bagel, made with freshly cooked eggs, melted cheddar cheese, garlic aioli, ripe tomato, and baby arugula for a satisfying combination of savory flavors. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Nova Bagel, which pairs premium lox with cream cheese and crisp lettuce for a timeless favorite elevated by Bakey's freshly baked bread. While the sandwiches are a major draw, guests can also enjoy freshly brewed coffee, vibrant salads, and an assortment of house-made pastries that perfectly complement any meal. Bakey's inviting atmosphere and commitment to baking everything in-house make it an ideal stop whether you're grabbing breakfast on the go or enjoying a leisurely lunch with friends. Located in Hallandale Beach, Bakey offers a warm neighborhood feel while delivering bakery-quality craftsmanship in every bite. For more information, please visit: www.bakeybabka.com . And follow Bakey on Instagram at: @BakeyBabka. CORSAIR Kitchen & Bar: Elevated Classics with Resort Style Located inside JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, CORSAIR Kitchen & Bar brings a fresh approach to American comfort food with an emphasis on simple preparation, quality ingredients, and elevated presentation. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, the restaurant offers guests a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience that perfectly suits both resort visitors and local diners. National Sandwich Month provides the perfect opportunity to experience several of CORSAIR's standout handheld offerings. The Turnberry Turkey Club transforms the traditional turkey sandwich into a premium dining experience. House-roasted turkey is paired with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, tomato, creamy mayonnaise, and a fried egg, all served on toasted brioche bread. Accompanied by herb fries, it's a satisfying meal that combines familiar flavors with upscale execution. For steak lovers, the Steak Sandwich delivers bold flavor through brick-pressed chimichurri skirt steak layered with melted provolone cheese, peppery arugula, and roasted red pepper aioli on a toasted hoagie bun. The combination of tender steak, vibrant herbs, and creamy aioli creates a sandwich that's both hearty and refined. Even the classic grilled cheese receives a gourmet upgrade at CORSAIR. Featuring Gruyere, fontina, and aged cheddar cheeses melted between slices of calabaza squash country bread, the sandwich delivers rich, complex flavors and exceptional texture that elevate a childhood favorite into a memorable dining experience. CORSAIR's commitment to fresh ingredients and carefully crafted recipes makes each sandwich feel special while maintaining the comforting familiarity diners crave. CORSAIR Kitchen + Bar is located at 19999 West Country Club Drive, Aventura, Florida 33180 at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. Sufrat Mediterranean Grill: Authentic Flavors Wrapped in Fresh Pita Family-owned Sufrat Mediterranean Grill has earned a loyal following throughout South Florida by combining authentic Middle Eastern recipes with warm hospitality and freshly prepared ingredients. During National Sandwich Month, the restaurant highlights its impressive selection of handcrafted Mediterranean sandwiches, each served in homemade pita bread baked fresh daily. Inspired by the vibrant street food traditions of the Middle East, Sufrat's sandwiches are filled with boldly seasoned meats, fresh vegetables, and house-made sauces that deliver authentic flavor in every bite. Among the restaurant's most popular offerings is the Chicken Shawarma Sandwich, featuring roasted chicken breast and tender young thighs topped with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, garlic sauce, and tahini. The combination of juicy chicken and creamy sauces creates a satisfying balance of flavor and texture. The Beef Shawarma Sandwich showcases tender roasted beef layered with crisp vegetables, tangy pickles, and rich tahini sauce, while the Gyro Lamb Sandwich highlights slow-roasted lamb slices paired with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and refreshing tzatziki. Guests seeking lighter fare can enjoy the Gyro Chicken Sandwich, which combines grilled chicken breast with fresh toppings and cool tzatziki sauce for a refreshing Mediterranean meal. Vegetarians aren't left out either. The Falafel Sandwich features crispy falafel nestled inside freshly baked pita alongside hummus, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and tahini, offering bold flavor without sacrificing freshness. Another standout is the Kafta Kebab Sandwich, made with seasoned ground beef and lamb, complemented by hummus, fresh vegetables, pickles, and tahini for a rich, satisfying meal that showcases traditional Mediterranean cooking. With locations in Pembroke Pines, Doral, and Miami Beach, Sufrat makes it easy for diners throughout South Florida to experience authentic Mediterranean sandwiches made from scratch every day. For reservations or more information, visit: www.sufratgrill.com . Or follow: @sufratgrill on Instagram. Celebrate National Sandwich Month One Bite At A Time National Sandwich Month is the perfect excuse to explore the incredible variety of sandwiches available throughout South Florida. Whether it's Bakey's freshly baked challah bagels, CORSAIR Kitchen & Bar's elevated American classics, or Sufrat Mediterranean Grill's authentic Middle Eastern creations, each destination brings its own unique approach to one of the world's most versatile meals. From breakfast favorites and gourmet lunch selections to internationally inspired specialties, these restaurants prove that a great sandwich is about much more than what's between two slices of bread. Fresh ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and distinctive flavors come together to create memorable dining experiences that are well worth celebrating all month long. No matter what you're craving, these South Florida favorites offer delicious reasons to raise a sandwich in honor of National Sandwich Month. Bakey Nova Bagel CORSAIR Kitchen & Bar Shrimp Po Boy and Blackened Mahi Sufrat Mediterranean Grill Gyro Chicken Sandwich Previous Next

Broadway Legends Make Stops In Aventura: The Original Stars Of Hairspray And Jersey Boys Set To Wow Audiences In March South Florida Sun Times Feb 27, 2025 Audiences won’t want to miss nonstop music, dance and electrifying performances as Broadway’s biggest stars take the stage at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. On Thursday, March 6th, Tony® -recognized artists Marissa Jaret Winokur, Kerry Butler, and Laura Bell Bundy— the original stars of Hairspray— star in Mama, I’m a Big Girl Now. Then, on Friday, March 28th, John Lloyd Young— the original star of Jersey Boys— delivers a captivating performance sure to wow audiences. Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the original Broadway Musical Hairspray as the original Tracy, Penny and Amber are reunited for the first time ever! Tony® award winner Marissa Jaret Winokur, and Tony® nominees Kerry Butler and Laura Bell Bundy come together for Mama I’m A Big Girl Now on Thursday, March 6th at 8:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center as part of its 2025 Broadway Concert Series presented by the City of Aventura. With 16 Broadway shows and more than 200 episodes of television between them, this trio has truly done it all as Winokur starred in Dancing with the Stars, Butler received a Tony® nomination for Xanadu and Bundy’s performance in Legally Blonde also received a Tony® nomination. These powerhouse performers take the audience on a hilarious and meaningful musical journey singing hits from their shows as they share stories from their origins as teenage performers, strong friendships, acclaimed careers and their children. A post-show meet and greet experience may be added to any ticket. Then, Tony® and Grammy- award winning actor John Lloyd Young is set to reprise his role of Frankie Valli from Broadway’s Jersey Boys on Friday, March 28th at 8:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center as part of its 2025 Broadway Concert Series presented by the City of Aventura. The Broadway smash-hit was adapted to the silver screen where Lloyd reprised his role of Frankie Valli for the Clint Eastwood directed Warner Bros film, Jersey Boys. Acclaimed for his immense talent and legendary charisma, in this production Young delivers a celebration of classic hits from the '50s and '60s presented in the authentic acoustic style of original rock 'n' roll, Doo-Wop and R&B standards. Along with tracks from Young's critically acclaimed debut album My Turn, the show features "Sherry," "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You," "Hold Me," "Thrill Me, Kiss Me" and "In the Still of the Night." He will also treat the audience to treasures from, among others, Roy Orbison, The Platters, the Righteous Brothers, Paul McCartney, Adele, Luther Vandross, Little Anthony, Elvis and Tom Jones. A post-show meet and greet experience may be added to any ticket. Tickets to all shows are on sale now. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222 or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-Square-Foot, 330-Seat Waterfront Complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. John Lloyd Young Previous Next