Ho Ho Hot Wheels! - Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County Members Receive Bicycles For The Holidays Wed Jan 08 2025 17:45:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Delray Beach Named Florida's Top Spot For A 'Micro-Retirement' South Florida Sun Times Jun 5, 2025 It’s Not About Dropping Out. It’s About Stepping Back - Intentionally - For A Few Months Or More, To Rest, Reflect, Or Pursue Something Outside Of The Usual 9-To-5. For Some, It’s A Break After Burnout. For Others, It’s A Planned Gap Between Roles, A Chance To Travel, Recover From Stress, Or Finally Try That Thing They’ve Always Wanted To Do. Unlike sabbaticals or short vacations, a micro-retirement has a different feel. It’s a personal reset, not tied to productivity or paychecks. And increasingly, people are choosing very specific places to do it. Careerminds, a global outplacement and career development firm, surveyed 3,007 workers to find out where they'd most like to spend their micro-retirement. The results show a strong lean toward places that offer calm, nature, and room to breathe. Below are the top 5: #1 Hilo, Hawaii Topping the list, Hilo is more than just scenic - it’s serene. Waterfalls, black sand beaches, and a rich local culture make it easy to slow down and breathe differently. You don’t just visit Hilo; you settle into it. #2 Kauai, Hawaii Coming in second, Kauai offers raw, unfiltered beauty. The pace here is unhurried, the landscape lush, and the days often spent in quiet awe, on cliffside trails or tucked away on Hanalei Bay. #3 Delray Beach, Florida This South Florida favorite blends easy beach living with a creative buzz. In third place, it’s ideal for those who want sunshine, yes, but also a bit of stimulation — art galleries, live music, and that walkable charm of Pineapple Grove. #4 Big Sur, California You don’t come to Big Sur to be busy. You come to listen to the ocean, to the wind through the redwoods, to your thoughts. For many, it’s the perfect place to clear mental clutter and just be. #5 Paia, Hawaii This Maui gem is a mix of surf town and soulful retreat. It’s colorful, artistic, and unpretentious. Many respondents saw Paia as a place to create, journal, or simply exist without a schedule. Infographic showing the top 150 locations across America that workers would most like to micro-retire in. Five other locations in Florida were named among the best in the country to micro-retire in: #6 Jupiter In Jupiter, micro-retirees can enjoy pristine beaches, scenic waterways, and a strong outdoor spirit. Kayaking the Loxahatchee River, visiting the historic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, and basking in the town’s easygoing nature become part of daily life. #7 St. Augustine St. Augustine’s cobblestone streets, ocean breezes, and centuries-old charm create a soulful atmosphere for micro-retirement. Wandering through historic districts, exploring Castillo de San Marcos, and savoring café life offer a pace rooted in tradition and tranquility. #11 Vero Beach Vero Beach’s quiet shores, artistic community, and welcoming spirit offer a nurturing environment for micro-retirees. Days are filled with beachside reflection at South Beach Park, gallery visits at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, and relaxed coastal living. #21 Winter Park Winter Park’s lakes, botanical gardens, and elegant downtown provide micro-retirees a harmonious lifestyle. Meandering through Mead Botanical Garden, enjoying museums, and leisurely afternoons on Park Avenue foster a daily rhythm of beauty and ease. #22 Mount Dora Mount Dora’s vintage charm and lakeside serenity create a peaceful retreat for micro-retirees. Strolling the historic downtown, taking relaxing boat tours on Lake Dora, and enjoying the town’s many festivals provide an inviting, slow-paced rhythm. What People Want From Their Time Off The survey also explored what people would prioritize during a micro-retirement, and the results show it’s not just about hammocks and hikes. For many, this time is deeply purposeful: 26% said their top goal would be travel and exploration, while 23% cited health and wellness, and 21% simply want rest and recovery. Other responses included learning new skills (12%), creative projects like writing or art (7%), volunteering (6%), and starting a business or passion project (5%). Others saw it as a chance to grow or give back - 12% wanted to learn something new, 7% were eager to dive into creative projects, and a smaller group (6%) said they’d volunteer. Just 5% were looking to start a business or pursue a long-held passion project. How Long Would They Step Away? Turns out, people aren’t thinking small. Only 16% said they’d opt for a break under a month. Most envisioned something more substantial: nearly a quarter would take 1-3 months, another 24% would stretch it to 4-6 months, and, notably, 24% said they’d step away for a year or more if they could. This isn’t about squeezing in a breather - it’s about real time to reset. What’s Holding People Back Of course, it’s not all daydreams and open calendars. The biggest obstacle by far is money. Half of the respondents said financial stability is the main thing stopping them. Losing health coverage was another major concern (17%), along with fears of career damage from resume gaps (10%) or losing purpose and daily structure (10%). And while we often romanticize a solo break, 9% admitted they’d worry about feeling isolated during such a stretch. How Would They Pay for It? 55% say they’d rely on personal savings. 19% would take on freelance or part-time work during their time off. Others mentioned family support (11%), severance packages (8%), or employer-funded sabbaticals (7%). Will They Do It? The idea is gaining traction, but not everyone’s ready to jump. Just under one in five (19%) say they’re very likely to take a micro-retirement in the next five years, with another 18% saying it’s somewhat likely. A quarter of people are on the fence. And 29% say it’s very unlikely, citing, once again, the realities of income, insurance, and job security. “Micro-retirement isn’t about quitting. It’s about taking the space to reimagine what life could look like - before burnout forces the issue. These cities reflect what people are yearning for: peace, beauty, and time that feels well-spent,” says Raymond Lee, President of Careerminds. (Credit: Careerminds) For more information, visit: https://careerminds.com/report/survey-micro-retirement Previous Next

Head to Downtown Hollywood: Kick off the Holiday Season With Free Family Fun This Weekend Fri Nov 17 2023 17:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Show Must Go On & Here’s Your Ticket: Embark On A Journey That Brings The Performing Arts To Life Fri Jun 09 2023 16:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Step Back In Time At The Hollywood Sock Hop South Florida Sun Times Sep 3, 2025 As Part Of The City Of Hollywood’s Centennial Celebration, The Greater Hollywood Chamber Of Commerce, Together With The City Of Hollywood, Is Hosting A 1950’s-Themed Sock Hop That Promises An Afternoon Of Dancing, Contests And Classic Fun. Guests are encouraged to dress the part with poodle skirts, leather jackets and saddle shoes. A costume contest, bubble gum blowing contest, and dance-off are all on the schedule, along with music that will bring back the spirit of the era. The event is designed to appeal to all ages, making it a true community celebration. Attendees will include local business owners, professionals, elected officials, city staff, longtime residents, and families, creating a mix that highlights the community spirit that has defined Hollywood over the past century. The Sock Hop takes place on Saturday, September 13th, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Armory Community Center at Dowdy Field, 906 North Dixie Highway, Hollywood, Florida 33020. Admission is free and open to everyone. For more information, contact Evonnie Chow at the Chamber by emailing: evonnie@hollywoodchamber.org. Pickin' & Grinnin' Song Swap Hits Hollywood This Saturday! Get ready to tune your strings and raise your voices on Saturday, September 6th, the Pickin’ & Grinnin’ Song Swap comes to the Fred Lippman Multi-Purpose Center, located at 2030 Polk Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020 for a toe-tapping afternoon of shared songs and community spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned picker, a budding strummer, or just love to sing along, this musical meet-up is open to all ages and skill levels. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite sheet music and join in the fun of swapping songs, sharing stories, and playing together in an easy-going, inclusive environment. The event celebrates the rich tradition of folk, country, and acoustic music, offering a unique space where strangers become bandmates and music makes fast friends. Expect everything from classic standards to hidden gems as players take turns leading songs and inviting others to jump in. Don't play an instrument? No problem—clap your hands, stomp your feet, or simply enjoy the joyful sounds. Whether you come to play, sing, or grin, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Event Details Pickin' & Grinnin' Song Swap Saturday, September 6th Fred Lippman Multi-Purpose Center 2030 Polk Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020 Mark your calendar for September 6th and come share the music at Pickin’ & Grinnin’. Just follow the sound of strumming strings and laughter to the Fred Lippman Center—it’s where Hollywood makes music, one song at a time. Previous Next

An UnBOOlievable Month: The Best Halloween Treats Are On Stage Thu Oct 13 2022 04:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

An Extraordinary Valentine’s Dining Experience Wed Jan 22 2025 17:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

How To Talk To Your Doctor About Statin Intolerance By Family Features Oct 22, 2025 If Your Doctor Has Concerns About Your Cholesterol Levels, You May Be Familiar With Statins. This Is A Class Of Medications That Can Help Reduce Your Body's Cholesterol Production, Lowering Your Risk Of Heart Attack Or Stroke. However, up to 30% of adults in the United States have some degree of Statin Intolerance, according to research published in the "Journal of Clinical Lipidology." Possible signs or symptoms of Statin Intolerance are muscle aches and cramps, fatigue, weakness, elevated Liver Enzymes and the onset of Diabetes or Impaired Glucose Tolerance. As a result, nearly one-third of patients (29%) discontinue their Statin within the first year, according to findings published in the "American Journal of Cardiology." Unfortunately, patients with Statin Intolerance are at an increased risk of Cardiovascular Disease, including higher rates of Coronary Heart Disease and recurrent Heart Attack. Lowering Bad Cholesterol A diagnosis of High Cholesterol involves measuring Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol, which is commonly referred to as "Bad" Cholesterol because it leads to the accumulation of Plaque in your Arteries. Plaque reduces your blood flow, which can cause damage to your Cardiovascular System. Bloodwork is the best indicator of your Cholesterol Levels, since you may not experience any symptoms of High Cholesterol until you already have damage and buildup in your Arteries. To help create your treatment plan, talk to your doctor about your medical history, including whether you've had a Heart Attack or any Heart Procedures, such as a Stent Placement or Bypass Surgery. You'll also review current medications, recent lab results and notes on any symptoms you may be experiencing. Your doctor is likely to recommend a series of steps to reduce your Cholesterol. Some common recommendations include a healthy diet low in Saturated and Trans Fats and high in Fiber, especially Fruits, Vegetables and Whole Grains. If you're not already getting regular physical activity, your doctor will likely encourage you to get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, find ways to include more movement in your everyday lifestyle and if necessary, work toward shedding extra weight. Lifestyle changes can help but may not make a big enough impact to reduce Cholesterol to a recommended level. In those cases, doctors rely on Cholesterol-Lowering Medications such as Statins. Statins can be highly effective at reducing Bad Cholesterol, making them a powerful tool to reduce the risks associated with Heart Disease. When Statins Are Intolerable Or Aren't Enough For a variety of reasons, including intolerance to the medication, other health conditions or interactions with other medications, Statins may not be the right choice for everyone. "While Statins remain the gold standard for Cholesterol lowering, I often see patients who either can't or won't take a Statin, as well as patients who require further LDL Cholesterol reduction," said Guy L. Mintz, Director of Cardiovascular Health & Lipidology at Northwell Health System. "For those patients, I prescribe Non-Statin Medications, such as Nexletol, an oral prescription medication with the Cholesterol Lowering Agent Bempedoic Acid and Nexlizet, a combination of Cholesterol-Lowering Medicines Bempedoic Acid and Ezetimibe. I am comfortable using Nexletol and Nexlizet, along with a healthy diet and exercise, to reduce LDL Cholesterol in adults with High Blood Cholesterol Levels and to reduce risk of Heart Events. Non-statins are another important therapeutic tool in our Lipid lowering toolbox." To learn more visit: www.Nexlizet.com . For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at: 1 (800) FDA-1088. Or call: 1 (800) 332-1088. Previous Next

Brightline's Trainee Summer Passport: Hey Moms & Dads, $5 Kids Fares And FREE Admission To Kid-Approved Attractions Tue Jul 18 2023 16:11:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Gerontologist Reveals Realities Of Dementia Care, Points Families Toward Sources Of Support October 10, 2024 Share Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, Dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, and that number is expected to rise — a statistic that has Gerontologist Dr. Macie Smith concerned about the ability of the medical community to provide comprehensive support for patients and their caregivers. "Because our current healthcare system is not geriatric-centered, many medical professionals are not well informed about what supports are available to offer family caregivers,” Smith said. “There is a growing need for Dementia-Competent Education that is practical, applicable and relatable.” Smith knows this firsthand. After caring for her grandmother, who had Dementia, it was important for Smith to share what she learned with other families to spare them from the struggle to find basic information on optimal care. “African American Caregivers are the least likely to have access to information, education and resources that will help guide their Dementia Caregiving journey,” she noted. Her new book, A Dementia Caregiver Called to Action: The Journey, is a concise yet comprehensive resource designed to address common questions and offer valuable insights throughout the caregiving journey. In her book, Smith takes readers through the logical progression of a Dementia Care experience, beginning with how to recognize potential symptoms before the diagnosis and what questions to ask the individual’s primary care physician. She then describes what to expect after a Dementia Diagnosis, answers common questions and details a range of care options available to Dementia Patients. “Although there’s not a cure for progressive types of Dementia, like Alzheimer’s, there is care — your care,” Dr. Smith added. “So, here’s to getting ahead of the journey.” Emmy-Winning TV host and Bestselling Author Leeza Gibbons said, “Macie has a unique way of supporting caregivers through real-world scenarios and practical guidance. I’ve seen her make the challenge much more manageable for many at the end of their ropes. If you need a basic starting position for Dementia Care, this book is for you.” About the Author Dr. Macie P. Smith has over 20 years of expertise as a Licensed Social Worker and Gerontologist, dedicated to serving aging and vulnerable populations alongside their family caregivers. Her multifaceted role encompasses conducting research, crafting programs, evaluating their efficacy and facilitating professional development training in the pivotal areas of healthcare management, family caregiving, Alzheimer’s, Dementia and cognitive impairment. At the helm of Diversified Training Consultants Group, Smith spearheads a dynamic Geriatric Care Management company committed to enhancing education and training standards for both healthcare professionals and family caregivers. She is an HBCU Alum, attaining her Bachelor’s and Master’s from South Carolina State University. She now serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees at her Alma Mater. Smith earned her Doctor of Education Degree from Nova Southeastern University. For more information, please visit: www.drmaciesmith.com . Or follow her on Instagram at: drmaciep. On Facebook at: drmaciepsmith. And on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmaciep/. Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/Dementia-Caregiver-Called-Action-Caregivers/dp/B0CVQ7W1D6 < Previous News Next News >

It's A Hard Knock Life: Everyone's Favorite Little Redhead In Her Very First Adventure May 16, 2023 Share Are you ready to experience the heartwarming story of Little Orphan Annie come to life on stage? Look no further than Annie Jr, playing at the Aventura Arts and Culture Center on Saturday, June 3rd, 2023 and Sunday, June 4th, 2023. Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-Winning Best Musical, with a beloved book and score by Tony Award Winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, Annie JR. features everyone's favorite little redhead in her very first adventure. This beloved musical has been delighting audiences for generations with its timeless tale of hope, perseverance, and the power of friendship. The show follows the spunky orphan Annie as she navigates life in the bustling city of New York during the Great Depression, all while dreaming of finding a forever home and a loving family. Annie Jr brings this classic story to life in a way that's perfect for the whole family. The show features a talented cast of young performers, who bring their infectious energy and enthusiasm to the stage in every scene. From the opening number "Maybe" to the rousing finale "Tomorrow," every song and dance is a joy to watch. One of the standout elements of this production is the stunning set design. The Aventura Arts and Culture Center has been transformed into a bustling cityscape, complete with towering skyscrapers, a bustling orphanage, and even a charming radio station. It's the perfect backdrop for this classic story, and the attention to detail is truly impressive. Of course, at the heart of Annie Jr is the cast of characters who bring this story to life. The song captures the spunk and spirit of Annie perfectly, and her renditions of classic songs like "Tomorrow" and "Hard Knock Life" are sure to leave audiences humming for days. It's clear that everyone involved in Annie Jr has poured their heart and soul into this production, and the result is a show that's sure to delight audiences of all ages. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the original Broadway production or you're experiencing this story for the first time, you won't want to miss this wonderful production. If you're planning to attend the show, be sure to arrive early to take advantage of all the Aventura Arts and Culture Center has to offer. The venue boasts a stunning view, as well as a range of food and drink options to enjoy before the show. And once the show begins, you'll be transported into the world of Annie Jr, where anything is possible and dreams really do come true. Overall, Annie Jr is a must-see production for anyone looking for a fun, heartwarming night out at the theater. With its talented cast, stunning set design, and timeless story, this show is sure to be a hit with audiences of all ages. Don't miss your chance to see it at the Aventura Arts and Culture Center on Saturday, June 3rd, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, June 4th, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. You can purchase tickets online at: https://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. Parking Free parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

SplashPad Is Open April 8, 2022 Share Founders Park SplashPad, the City of Aventura’s interactive water playground for children, opened for the season on Wednesday, March 23rd, 2022 to Aventura residents. The SplashPad is located in Founders Park’s north section, it is a safe and refreshing recreational water play system composed of nozzles, structures and loops producing an array of water spray options used to cool off, play and enjoy. A great swimming pool alternative, the SplashPad is a safe aquatic play area - even for small children - requiring little supervision because of no standing water and zero water depth. The SplashPad is located inside Founders Park at 3105 Northeast 190th Street. The following SplashPad schedule will be observed: · Spring: April 2nd, 2022 – May 29th, 2022 - Weekends only from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. · Passover: April 20th, 2022 – April 22nd, 2022 - Wednesday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Aventura residents who have not created a new account on the system must create a new account. To create a new account, follow these simple steps: · Visit the City of Aventura On-line at: https://secure.rec1.com/FL/aventura-fl/catalog · On the dashboard page, find and click the Create Account button. · Follow the instructions to set up the account, including family members. · Upload picture(s) to be used for identification. · Verify address and residency. New accounts will be verified before an Aventura ID card is issued. Once you have completely created and verified your account, please e-mail: parksrec@cityofaventura.com to request a copy of your Aventura ID card(s). Please allow up to 5 business days to receive your card(s) by mail. Please be advised that complete details may be subject to change due to any updated safety restrictions and guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Florida Department of Health (FDOH), and Miami-Dade County. In response to the COVID-19 Pandemic and the return to the new normal phases of operations, the City of Aventura’s Community Services Department carefully planned and prepared the opening of the SplashPad with guidelines to safely protect the health and welfare of the community it serves. Get outdoors and enjoy Aventura City Parks! For more information, contact the City of Aventura Community Services Department at: (305) 466-0183. Or via e-mail at: parksrec@cityofaventura.com < Previous News Next News >