Transform Holiday Leftovers - Reinvent Your Holiday Extras Through Fresh Takes on Classic Dishes Family Features November 28, 2024 Share Once your holiday feast comes to pass, you're almost certain to find your refrigerator stuffed with leftovers. However, that doesn't mean you want to eat the same meal again and again in the days that follow. The star of many seasonal celebrations, Turkey can be reused in a variety of post-holiday dishes to cut down on food waste and create fresh new meals your whole family can enjoy. Featuring a unique blend of 100% Natural Chili Peppers, Lime and Sea Salt, TajÌn pairs perfectly with Turkey, making it a go-to for creative leftovers. Gone are the days of simply reheating Turkey and Stuffing or making a Turkey Sandwich. Instead, reinvent your holiday extras through fresh takes on classic dishes like this comforting Leftover Holiday Biscuit Pot Pie or Spicy Leftover Turkey Carnitas Tacos. Leftover Holiday Biscuit Pot Pie Total time: 45 minutes Servings: 4 Biscuits: 1 1/2 Cups of All-Purpose Flour 2 Teaspoons of Baking Powder 2 1/2 Teaspoons of Sugar 1/4 Teaspoon of Salt 2 Teaspoons of Cream Of Tartar 1/2 Cup of cold Unsalted Butter 2/3 Cup of Buttermilk 1 Tablespoon of Butter, melted Turkey Pot Pie Filling: 1/2 Cup of Turkey Fat 1 1/2 Cups of diced Onion 1 1/2 Cups of diced Carrots 1 1/2 Cups of diced Celery 1 Bay Leaf 1 Tablespoon of Minced Garlic 1 Tablespoon of Chopped Thyme 1 Tablespoon of Diamond Crystal Coarse Salt 1 Tablespoon of Coarse Black Pepper 1 Cup of All-Purpose Flour, divided 8 Cups of cold Turkey Stock TajÌn Clasico Seasoning, to taste about 1 Tablespoon 6 Cups of leftover cooked Turkey, chopped To make the Biscuits: In a mixing bowl, combine the Flour, the Baking Powder, the Sugar, the Salt and the Cream of Tartar. Grate the Butter and mix it with the dry ingredients. Carefully add the Buttermilk and mix everything until it is incorporated. Fold it over 5-6 times, roll it out and cut it into 10-12 rounds. Place the cut Biscuits on a floured surface. Refrigerate it for 30 minutes. To make the Turkey Pot Pie Filling: Preheat the oven to 375 F. Heat a large pot over high heat and add the Turkey Fat. Add the Onions, the Carrots, the Celery, the Bay Leaf, the Garlic, the Thyme, the Salt and the Pepper and gently sweat it. Add 1/2 Cup of Flour and cook it for 2-3 minutes. Add the Turkey Stock, 2 cups at a time, allowing it to thicken before adding more. In a bowl, mix the remaining Flour with the Turkey. Add the Turkey to the pot, bring to a simmer until it is thickened. Add the Seasoning, to taste. Add the Pot Pie Filling to the casserole dish and gently place the Biscuits closely together on top. Brush the Biscuits with the Melted Butter and bake them for 25-30 minutes. Remove the Pot Pie from the oven and cool it for 10-15 minutes before serving. Leftover Turkey Carnitas Tacos Total time: 25 minutes Servings: 2 (2-3 tacos each) 4-6 Garlic Cloves, peeled and separated 1 Pinch of Salt 1/2 Cup of Fresh Bitter Orange Juice or Fresh Lime Juice with Fresh Orange Juice combo 1/2 Cup of Olive Oil 1 Teaspoon of TajÌn Clasico Seasoning 1 Cup of leftover Turkey, shredded 1 Cup Duck Fat, Ghee or High Smoke Point Oil of choice 4-6 Tortillas Toppings (optional): • Pico de Gallo • Pickled Onions • Cilantro • Pomegranate Seeds • Avocado With a mortar and pestle, crush together the Garlic Cloves and the Salt, make the Paste and place it in a medium bowl. Stir in the Juice, the Olive Oil and the Seasoning. Fold the Mojo into the shredded Turkey meat. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over high heat, melt the Duck Fat and wait until it forms a wave. Add the Turkey, in batches, stirring often, until the meat turns light golden brown, then lower heat to medium. Turn off heat. Heat up the Tortillas, place the Turkey Carnitas on top and add the Pico de Gallo, the Pickled Onions, the Cilantro, the Pomegranate Seeds or the Avocado as desired. Note: Once browned in the Duck Fat, the Carnitas can be stored in the Fat overnight and reheated over low heat to melt the Fat and warm the Carnitas. For more holiday recipe inspirations, visit: www.tajin.com/us < Previous News Next News >

Americans Should Not Be Silenced: To The Founders, All of America Was A Free Speech Zone By John & Nisha Whitehead September 29, 2022 Share “We the people are the rightful masters of both Congress and the courts, not to overthrow the Constitution but to overthrow the men who pervert the Constitution.” — Abraham Lincoln. In America today, the government does whatever it wants, freedom be damned. “We the people” have been terrorized, traumatized, and tricked into a semi-permanent state of compliance by a government that cares nothing for our lives or our liberties. The bogeyman’s names and faces have changed over time, but the end result remains the same: in the so-called name of national security, the Constitution has been steadily chipped away at, undermined, eroded, whittled down, and generally discarded with the support of Congress, the White House, and the courts. What we are left with today is but a shadow of the robust document adopted more than two centuries ago. Sadly, most of the damage has been inflicted upon the Bill of Rights. Here is what it means to live under the Constitution, twenty-plus years after 9/11 and with the nation just emerging from two years of COVID-19 lockdowns and mandates. The First Amendment is supposed to protect the freedom to speak your mind, assemble and protest nonviolently without being bridled by the government. It also protects the freedom of the media, as well as the right to worship and pray without interference. In other words, Americans should not be silenced by the government. To the founders, all of America was a free speech zone. Despite these clear protections, Americans are being persecuted for challenging government corruption. The Second Amendment was intended to give the citizenry the means to resist tyrannical government. Yet while gun ownership has been recognized by the U.S. Supreme Court as an individual citizen right, Americans remain powerless to defend themselves against red flag gun laws, militarized police, SWAT team raids, and government agencies armed to the teeth with military weapons better suited to the battlefield. The Third Amendment prohibits the military from entering any home without “the consent of the owner.” With the police increasingly training like the military, acting like the military, and posing as military forces—complete with heavily armed SWAT teams, military weapons, assault vehicles, etc. - it is clear that we now have what the founders feared most - a standing army on American soil. The Fourth Amendment ensures privacy and bodily integrity. Unfortunately, the Fourth Amendment has been all but eviscerated by an unwarranted expansion of governmental police and surveillance powers. The Fifth Amendment and the Sixth Amendment work in tandem. These amendments supposedly ensure that you are innocent until proven guilty, and government authorities cannot deprive you of your life, your liberty or your property without the right to an attorney and a fair trial before a civilian judge. However, in the new suspect society in which we live, where surveillance is the norm, these fundamental principles have been upended. Certainly, if the government can arbitrarily freeze, seize or lay claim to your property (money, land or possessions) under government asset forfeiture schemes, you have no true rights. The Seventh Amendment guarantees citizens the right to a jury trial. Yet when the populace has no idea of what’s in the Constitution, that inevitably translates to an ignorant jury incapable of distinguishing justice and the law from their own preconceived notions and fears. However, as a growing number of citizens are coming to realize, the power of the jury to nullify the government’s actions - and thereby help balance the scales of justice - is not to be underestimated. Jury nullification reminds the government that “we the people” retain the power to ultimately determine what laws are just. The Eighth Amendment is supposed to protect the rights of the accused and forbid the use of cruel and unusual punishment. However, the Supreme Court’s determination that what constitutes “cruel and unusual” should be dependent on the “evolving standards of decency that mark the progress of a maturing society” leaves us with little protection in the face of a society lacking in morals altogether. The Ninth Amendment provides that other rights not enumerated in the Constitution are nonetheless retained by the people. Popular sovereignty - the belief that the power to govern flows upward from the people rather than downward from the rulers - is clearly evident in this amendment. However, it has since been turned on its head by a centralized federal government that sees itself as supreme and which continues to pass more and more laws that restrict our freedoms under the pretext that it has an “important government interest” in doing so. As for the Tenth Amendment’s reminder that the people and the states retain every authority that is not otherwise mentioned in the Constitution, that assurance of a system of government in which power is divided among local, state and national entities has long since been rendered moot by the centralized Washington, DC, power elite—the president, Congress and the courts. Thus, if there is any sense to be made from this recitation of freedoms lost, it is simply this: our individual freedoms have been eviscerated so that the government’s powers could be expanded. It was no idle happenstance that the Constitution opens with these three powerful words: “We the people.” As the Preamble proclaims: We, the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this CONSTITUTION for the United States of America. In other words, it’s our job to make the government play by the rules of the Constitution. Here’s an idea to get educated and take a stand for freedom: anyone who signs up to become a member of The Rutherford Institute gets a wallet-sized Bill of Rights card and a Know Your Rights card. Use this card to teach your children the freedoms found in the Bill of Rights. As I point out in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, “we the people” have the power to make and break the government. Imagine what we could accomplish if we actually worked together, presented a united front, and spoke with one voice. Tyranny wouldn’t stand a chance. 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 >

Paws & Professions Career Day - The Big Woof Festival And YMCA Of South Florida Launch A Day To Inspire The Next Generation Of Animal Advocates South Florida Sun Times Jul 30, 2026 The Big Woof Festival, Miami’s Largest Dog Festival, And The YMCA Of South Florida Are Proud To Announce Paws & Professions Career Day, An Innovative Educational Initiative Designed To Inspire Children To Become Lifelong Animal Advocates While Introducing Them To The Many Rewarding Careers Dedicated To Improving The Lives Of Pets And Their Families. Through the YMCA’s extensive network of family centers, after-school programs, and community outreach, the initiative is expected to engage thousands of children and families across South Florida, creating meaningful educational experiences that begin months before The Big Woof Festival and culminate during an immersive Career Day experience at the festival on Saturday, January 16th, 2027 – Sunday, January 17th, 2027, at Regatta Park in Coconut Grove. “One of the goals of The Big Woof Festival has always been to create meaningful experiences that benefit both pets and people,” said Laura Pequignot, Co-Founder of The Big Woof Festival. “Through our partnership with the YMCA of South Florida, we’re giving children the opportunity to discover how they can make a difference in the lives of animals while opening their eyes to careers they may have never considered.” A Two-Part Educational Experience The program begins with the Paws & Professions Coloring & Activity Book, a custom-designed educational resource introducing children to careers including veterinary medicine, animal rescue, pet grooming, dog training, pet nutrition, animal behavior, responsible pet ownership, and many other professions dedicated to animal health and welfare. More than 5,000 educational coloring and activity books will be distributed throughout South Florida through YMCA of South Florida Family Centers, 50+ YMCA after-school programs serving Miami-Dade County schools, and The Big Woof Festival’s network of community partners and family outreach events leading up to the festival. The educational activities encourage families to continue their learning journey by attending Paws & Professions Career Day at The Big Woof Festival. Bringing Career Exploration to Life During the festival, children will transform what they’ve learned into real-world experiences by participating in interactive Career Discovery Stations located throughout the Big Woof Marketplace. Participants will: • Meet professionals representing a wide variety of pet-related careers • Learn firsthand about the important roles they play in caring for animals • Visit Career Discovery Stations throughout the festival • Complete their official Career Day Passport • Receive a Junior Animal Advocate Certificate • The experience begins at the Career Day Headquarters, hosted by the YMCA of South Florida, where children receive their Career Day Passport, learn how to participate, and celebrate their accomplishments upon completion. “Our partnership with The Big Woof Festival reflects the YMCA’s commitment to helping young people discover their potential through meaningful educational experiences,” said Sheryl A. Woods, President & CEO, YMCA of South Florida. “Paws & Professions Career Day encourages curiosity, compassion, and community involvement while helping children explore careers that make a positive difference.” By combining education, entertainment, adoption, and community engagement in a single weekend, The Big Woof Festival creates a one-of-a-kind experience for South Florida families while raising awareness and support for local rescue and shelter organizations — all in support of responsible pet ownership. About The YMCA of South Florida The YMCA of South Florida strengthens communities by empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action through programs that nurture youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Through family centers, after-school programs, camps, and community outreach, the YMCA serves thousands of children and families throughout South Florida. About The Big Woof Festival Taking place on Saturday, January 16th, 2027 - Sunday, January 17th, 2027, at Regatta Park in Coconut Grove, The Big Woof Festival—Miami’s only large-format dog festival in the nation’s 8th largest dog ownership market—brings together thousands of dog lovers, families, and rescue organizations for a weekend of adoption, community, and celebration. The festival showcases Champion Frisbee Dog performances, entertaining pup contests, K-9 exhibitions, dog training demonstrations, wellness talks, vendor booths, and delicious food and drinks. Festival proceeds benefit PAWS4you Rescue while creating opportunities to raise awareness and support for other local rescue and shelter organizations throughout South Florida. For more festival information, please visit: www.thebigwooffest.com . Previous Next

Medicare Open Enrollment Is Now Through Sunday, December 7th Find The Right Care At The Best Price Jewish Connection News Nov 20, 2025 Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator Of The Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services As the new head of the Medicare program, I encourage everyone with Medicare to take full advantage of this year's Open Enrollment period. This is your once-a-year opportunity to take a fresh look at your coverage for the year ahead. As a physician, I've seen firsthand how the right health plan can improve both the quality of care you receive and your peace of mind. Now is time to take a moment, do a little homework and make sure you are getting the right care at the best price. Health plans can undergo changes every year including adjustments to benefits, costs and coverage. Even the plan you're in now could be changing. At the same time, your health needs may have changed over the past year. When you review your coverage options and compare plans, you may find that you can save money, get better coverage or both. A simple plan comparison could save you hundreds - in some cases even thousands of dollars, depending on the prescription medications you take. Start at the Official Source: www.Medicare.gov www.Medicare.gov is your official source for all your Open Enrollment needs. It's the trusted resource to help you navigate Open Enrollment. Here people can explore and compare every available Medicare health and drug plan available in their area. If you prefer speaking with someone directly, call: 1 (800) MEDICARE. Call: 1 (800) 633-4227 to connect with our team of experts. We're available 24/7 to help you review your options and answer any questions about your Medicare coverage. To get started, go to: www.Medicare.gov and click on "Find Plans Now." For the best shopping experience, log in or start a Medicare account. You can easily compare plan costs, side-by-side, all based on the drugs you take. This is important: Make sure the plan you choose covers your prescription drugs and your doctors. Time is Limited So Start Early Medicare Open Enrollment ends on Sunday, December 7th. After this deadline, you'll typically need to wait until the next Open Enrollment period to make changes to your coverage. The deadline approaches quickly, so start early to make sure you have time to compare your options - including costs, benefits, covered drugs and provider and pharmacy networks. Then you can feel confident in selecting the plan that delivers the right care at the right price for your needs. Help is Available 24/7 If you have any questions about your coverage options, visit: www.Medicare.gov . If you prefer to talk it over with someone, call the experts at 1 (800) MEDICARE. Call: 1 (800) 633-4227 - they're available 24/7 to review your options and answer your questions. One final note: Stay vigilant against Medicare fraud, especially during Open Enrollment. Remember that Medicare will never contact you unsolicited. If someone you don't know calls, texts or emails you about Medicare, simply hang up or delete the message. By staying alert, you can help stop fraud before it starts. New at: www.Medicare.gov This year: www.Medicare.gov has rolled out a series of improvements designed to help people more easily compare their Medicare options and find a plan that fits their unique needs. By clicking "Find Plans Now" on the homepage, users can quickly compare plan costs side-by-side, with results personalized to the specific medications they take. For the first time, you can now search to see whether your preferred doctors are covered by different plans - all in one seamless experience. www.Medicare.gov is also making it easier to search for plans that include additional benefits that can improve your daily life. Whether you're looking for wellness perks like weight management programs or other services that support a healthier lifestyle, the updated search tools can help you focus on what matters most to you. Logging into your Medicare account has also been modernized. If you choose, you can set up your fingerprint or Face ID to get into your account securely. It's faster, it's more secure and it's easier than trying to remember another password. Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Previous Next

Shake Baby Shake: Lance Lipinski and The Lovers Featuring the Lovettes December 13, 2021 Share Shake Baby Shake also features the incredible Lovettes honoring the girl groups and major female artists of the '50s & '60s Lance Lipinski gives an explosive performance showcasing the hits of the major artists of the '50s and '60s including song styles from the birth of Rock & Roll such as: Big Band, Rhythm & Blues, Western, Swing, Rockabilly, Doo Wop, the Teen Idol influence, Soul, Surf, the British Invasion, Motown & more. Shake Baby Shake also features the incredible Lovettes honoring the girl groups and major female artists of the '50s & '60s such as the Andrews Sisters, the McGuire Sisters, Lavern Baker, Connie Francis, The Ronettes, The Supremes, Etta James & more. Reborn, American Made Rock & Roll Music As a new sound emerged in the mid 1950's, flocks of guitar marketed themed singers dominated the scene. In this new arena called Rock & Roll, only a few front men in Mainstream Pop Music History stood behind a piano. Not much has changed generations later as Lipinsky himself is a descendant of this rare breed of piano based entertainers, tickling the ivories of his heroes before him like Charlie Rich, Fats Domino, Jerry Lee Lewis, Floyd Cramer and more. "What's good doesn't die," is a birthright motto Lipinsky displayed since childhood. With no formal training, his dad's lifelong vinyl record collection contributed to a self-taught education on piano and guitar and was instantly possessed by music before his time. Paul Lipinsky never missed an opportunity to have his 6 year old son Lance sit in and sing with bands that made up the South Central Texas Music Scene in the Honky Tonk Juke Joints that he frequented. With his parent's blessing, Lipinsky dropped out of high school and moved to Las Vegas where he was determined to make it in show business. With the resources Vegas had to offer for performers, Lipinsky hoped to recreate the success he previously had in Texas when he cut his teeth as a musician by honing his craft as a live entertainer. Tackling every lounge and casino showroom, he eventually was discovered and put on the Vegas Strip at a mere 17 years old. He was blessed to now have a full time career in various productions and started concentrating on writing original material. In 2010, Lipinsky moved to Chicago and headlined over 2500 action packed shows at the Apollo Theatre in the TONY award winning Broadway Musical: "Million Dollar Quartet." He would call Chicago his second home and formed his dream show band The Lovers with a young stand up bassist named Zach Lentino. Other members of the Lovers include Drummer John Perrin, Guitarist Nate Adams, Saxophonist Aaron Getsug and occasional sit ins with Wyatt Maxwell, Heitor Crespo, Aaron Dacorte, Michael Monroe Goodman and Derrell Lowe. Accompanied by the "Lovettes," Jessicsa Lyons, Temeka Estes and Darcy Jo Wood provide backup harmony in a fantasy hybrid of Lesile Gore, Diana Ross and Ronnie Spector inspired girl groups. The influences range from Little Richard/Jerry Lee Lewis induced piano grooves all the way to Phil Spector meets Roy Orbison-esque ballads complete with a string section, timpani and tape delay galore. Being born too late has its advantages... his adventures have led him to appear on both the David Letterman Show and at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee. Recently he was featured in the new HBO Series: "Vinyl" directed by Mick Jagger and Martin Scorsese. Most modern day mainstream record companies would dismiss a throwback act like Lipinsky’s and label it as "oldies" or "nostalgia," but artists like Lance devoted to the Roots music movement and reminding us that this style is not just a mere trend from the past, but rather its own Genre that has stood the test of time. Describing the Lovers as what he calls "American Made Rock & Roll Music," it's obvious that Lipinsky is a time preserving evolutionist for these American melting pots of Rockabilly, Rhythm & Blues, Western, Swing, Doo Wop, Soul, etc, as heard on his debut album “Roll.” History repeats itself with Lance Lipinsky's exploration of early Rock & Roll... continuing a much awaited sequel sixty years later. Venue & Ticketing This January 8th, 2022 performance is on sale at full capacity without physical distancing limitations. Ticket purchasers will be notified of up-to-date Healthy & Safety Guidelines prior to each performance. The show starts promptly at 8:00 p.m. with ticket prices ranging from $45.00 - $49.00. To purchase tickets visit, https://www.aventuracenter.org/events/detail/shake-baby-shake-2022 Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets on-line at: aventuracenter.org By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center’s Box Office Tuesday through Saturday from 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. < Previous News Next News >

You Do Make A Difference By Bryan Golden October 20, 2022 Share Do you make a difference in the world? Does anyone care about what you do? Are some people more important than others? We all ask ourselves these questions from time to time. Some people wonder about them more than others. You do make a difference. You are important. Who you are and what you do does matter. You may have wondered what's the purpose of life. Or perhaps you contemplated the nature of the big picture. There are many more questions than answers. But we don't need all of the answers to lead meaningful lives. Everything you do and each person you impact has a ripple effect, just like a stone thrown into a pond. Every occupation helps people and fills some need. If it didn't, the job wouldn't exist. Although there may be a wide range of compensation, lower pay doesn't mean a job is less important. All people are equal, regardless of what they do to earn a living. What can make a person special is how they treat others. A special person treats others with concern, care and consideration. A special person's economic status, education, intelligence, or occupation is irrelevant. If you want to make a difference in the world you can do so one person at a time. By having a positive influence on just one person's life, you will have made a significant difference in this world. The seemingly simple act of saying hello and smiling at a stranger will brighten the day of at least two people; the person who smiled and the one they smiled at. When you help improve someone else's day, who knows how many other people they will have a positive impact on as a result. It's like a good will chain letter that keeps multiplying. You have three spheres of influence: immediate, direct and extended. In your immediate sphere are all those people who know you and with whom you have repeated contact. These include family, friends, acquaintances and coworkers. Many of the people in your immediate sphere depend on and rely on you more than you or they realize. Although people do not show their gratitude to you as often as they should, your presence is nonetheless important to them. Your direct sphere of influence includes all the people you have personal contact with. Contact involves any kind of interpersonal communication including in person, over the phone, mail, email or visual. You can have direct contact with a person once and then never cross paths again. You have personal contact with people everywhere you go. You talk to many people over the phone or via mail/email that you will never meet in person. You have visual contact with people in other vehicles when you are driving. When you are polite and caring, it makes a difference to others. How do you feel when you are treated this way? It affects you as the receiver the same way it impacts others when you are the transmitter. Your extended sphere of influence includes those that are affected by the people you have had direct contact with. One good deed will have a ripple effect that extends farther than you can ever imagine. So don't underestimate the difference you make in the world. It is far greater than you realize. If someone voices appreciation for what you have done, ask them to repay you by showing the same consideration for someone else. You do make a difference, one person at a time. Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits." Contact Bryan at: Bryan@columnist.com . Or visit: www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com Copyright 2022© Bryan Golden < Previous News Next News >

ZOA Praises Trump Restricting Entry Of Foreign Nationals - Posing Security Risks And Restricting Visas For Harvard Foreign Students Jewish Connection News Jul 9, 2025 The ZOA Praises President Donald Trump For Issuing Two Executive Orders On June 4th, 2025, To Improve National Security, Including The Security Of Vulnerable, Targeted American Jews Throughout The United States And At Harvard University: “Proclamation Restricting The Entry Of Foreign Nationals To Protect The United States From Foreign Terrorists And Other National Security And Public Safety Threats,” And “Proclamation Enhancing National Security By Addressing Risks At Harvard University.” The first proclamation reiterated President Trump’s Executive Order 14161 of January 20th, 2025 (Protecting the United States From Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats), that “The United States must ensure that admitted aliens and aliens otherwise already present in the United States do not bear hostile attitudes toward its citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles, and do not advocate for, aid, or support designated foreign terrorists or other threats to our national security.” Protecting the security of all American citizens is indeed the first duty of an American president. Too many immigrants have hostile attitudes towards U.S. citizens – especially American Jewish citizens – including the Egyptian immigrant who attempted to burn to death American Jews in Boulder, Colorado. It is thus shameful and dangerous to the American Jewish public that the American Jewish Committee (AJC) publicly opposed President Trump’s proclamation protecting our security from hostile immigrants. The first June 4th proclamation was issued after the U.S. Administration determined that vetting procedures from specific countries were deficient, and after accounting for national security, counterterrorism and foreign policy objectives. The proclamation fully restricted and limited the entry of nationals from Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen; and partially restricted and limited the entry of nationals from: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. The proclamation noted that visa overstays rates from these countries ranged from 6.49% to 70.18%. All these rates are well above the national average overstay rate of 1.45%. Visa overstays are a major portion of illegal immigrants. (See “Visa Overstays Make up Almost 40 Percent of Illegal U.S. Entries,” Statista, by Katharina Buchholz, May 21st, 2025.) The proclamation further noted that the restricted countries included U.S.-designated state sponsors of Terrorism (Iran and Cuba); nations that fail to cooperate with the U.S. in identifying security risks; and nations that refuse to accept back, removable nationals. If anything, ZOA wonders whether the proclamation should be expanded to include nationals from more countries, including: Egypt – the origin of the Boulder, CO arsonist and Molotov-cocktail attacker; Egypt also refuses to admit most Gazan refugees; Jordan – which likewise refuses to admit most Gazan refugees and gives safe harbor to Sbarro restaurant killer Ahlam Tamimi; Pakistan – the origin of the poorly vetted San Bernardino, CA Christmas party shooter and terrorist group that tortured and murdered a pregnant Jewish woman and others at the Mumbai, India Chabad house; and Syria – which is still a designated state sponsor of terrorism. The DHS 2023 Overstay Report reveals that overstay rates from these countries for nonimmigrants admitted for business or pleasure and for students were, respectively: 4.16% and 4.23% for Egyptians; 5.88% and 10.04% for Jordanians; 5.03% and 4.65% for Pakistanis and 9.68% and 12.25% for Syrians. These are all well above national overstay rates. ZOA also strongly applauds the president’s proclamation that the U.S. must be protected from those who bear hostile attitudes toward U.S. citizens. In order to carry this out, ZOA suggests that vetting procedures should add specific questions about potential entrants’ attitudes toward U.S. citizens. For instance, potential entrants should be asked “do you have any hostility toward Jews?” President Trump’s second proclamation, restricting entry of foreign nationals to study at Harvard, is also an important step for protecting national and students’ safety – especially Jewish students’ safety. The proclamation notes that “Harvard University has refused the recent requests of the DHS for information about foreign students’ ‘known illegal activity,’ ‘known dangerous and violent activity,’ ‘known threats to other students or university personnel,’ ‘known deprivation of rights of other classmates or university personnel,’ and whether those activities ‘occurred on campus,’ and other related data. Harvard provided data on misconduct by only three students, and the data it provided was so deficient that the DHS could not evaluate whether it should take further actions. Harvard’s actions show that it either is not fully reporting its disciplinary records for foreign students or is not seriously policing its foreign students.” After decades of Harvard failing to police foreign students’ harassment and attacks on Jewish students, the new restrictions are a much-needed breath of fresh air. Previous Next

Deck The Hulls This Month - Take A Holiday Lights Cruise With The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxis December 19, 2024 Share Set sail on a magical evening with Fort Lauderdale’s Water Taxi Holiday Lights Cruise, running each evening from December 5th through January 4th. This festive cruise highlights the beauty of Fort Lauderdale’s famous waterways with holiday lights and live music. Bring friends and family to enjoy the illuminated sights, seasonal cheer and jolly atmosphere. This year, experience more than ever before with the new VIP Captain’s Holiday Pass, which includes an open bar for added enjoyment. This premier upgrade includes unlimited access to premium alcoholic beverages amid the relaxing ambiance of festive live music and spectacular views of Fort Lauderdale’s waterway. The Holiday Lights Cruise boards at Stop One, of the Water Taxi route at the Riverside Hotel, located at 335 Southeast 6th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 for a continuous cruise lasting about an hour and a half. Cruises depart at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. and patrons are asked to arrive 15 minutes prior to their scheduled boarding time. Parking is available within walking distance of the departure dock with street metered parking on Las Olas Boulevard as well as the Las Olas Parking Garage located at 620 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301. Ticket prices start at $45 for adults and $15 for children ages 4 and up. Children under 3 are free. The VIP Captain’s Pass is $59, plus an 18% gratuity per guest, added at checkout. Tickets are limited. Book now at: https://watertaxi.com/tickets. The Water Taxi A different ride every time, and always something for everyone. Water Taxi is more than just a boat ride: Gliding between 20 stops, you’re instantly connected to the best of South Florida—including more than 60 “Cruise and Save” partners—while learning more about the area from knowledgeable guides and taking in a different view every single time. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy a historic area, world-class shopping, diverse dining options, basking in the romantic glow of a sunset cruise, or taking in the local nightlife. Holiday Gift Pass The Water Taxi gift pass is a unique way to acknowledge someone’s adventurous side. It’s entertainment, transportation, and a full day’s worth of activities rolled into one. Plus, it’s an easy-to-share certificate that you can purchase and send within minutes! From birthdays and holidays to a going-away present or graduation gift, the Water Taxi Gift Pass is a thoughtful gesture for any special occasion. For more information, visit: https://watertaxi.com/events-listing/holiday-lights-cruises/ - Or email Ameila De Vita at: adevita@watertaxi.com . < Previous News Next News >

We Were Spared By Hurricane Helene By Hallandale Beach, Mayor Joy Cooper October 3, 2024 Share Are You Prepared For The Next Storm - Plus Election Information - This past week we all mobilized in preparation for Hurricane Helene. By the grace of God, we were lucky to not have been drastically affected by the wind or rain but those in the panhandle and north were not so lucky. This hurricane became a monster that set a historic record. It grew to a Category 4, killing eighty-four people and impacting the west coast of Florida, made landfall in the Big Bend Area and went on to wreak havoc in Georgia, the Carolina's, Tennessee and Virginia. The damage alone from this one storm is estimated to be up to twenty-six billion dollars. This past week we all mobilized in preparation for Hurricane Helene. By the grace of God, we were lucky to not have been drastically affected by the wind or rain but those in the panhandle and north were not so lucky. This hurricane became a monster that set a historic record. It grew to a Category 4, killing eighty-four people and impacting the west coast of Florida, made landfall in the Big Bend Area and went on to wreak havoc in Georgia, the Carolina's, Tennessee and Virginia. The damage alone from this one storm is estimated to be up to twenty-six billion dollars. I am urging all our residents to remain vigilant during the Hurricane Season. We have seen two massive rain events in the past year that have impacted properties city wide. Many owners are still recovering and shaken to the core that it may happen again. I am sure like me every time it rains, I pray that we will be spared. So, my message is we all need to have our plan in place as hurricanes are unpredictable. As one Florida woman stated on the news, “it is the price we pay living in the tropics and along the coast.” I was thinking about Atlanta, Tennessee, and North Carolina. We are all being impacted. Two weeks ago, we held a training for storm preparedness. I talked with our expert about hosting another meeting on how to protect homes and properties from flooding this month. It is one thing to have a plan, it is another thing to prevent flood waters from coming into your home. Due to Hurricane Helene, I am not certain if we will be able to host one as she works directly with FEMA. I have spoken with residents that are looking into the many products that are now on the market to help protect homes and businesses. There are reusable flood barriers and flood gates. These are much better than sandbags as they are easier to put in place and then can be stored. There are other items that can be used inside your home as well. Companies now are selling usable watertight bags for everything and every size. One company has a size that is for a full room of furniture. You lay it out, move your belongings on to the tarp-like surface and then seal it up. There are also more extensive ways to address flooding. FEMA has a program where they will pay to elevate your home. The Severe Repetitive Loss SRL Grant provides that if your home has been impacted by flooding and has received flood claims twice. They also help with Dry Proofing homes. This means placing special veneers on the structures, installing backflow meters to prevent sewer backups. Once I hear when our expert will be available, I will be hosting a Town Hall so we can work together to help our community become more resilient. Meanwhile our prayers go out to all the families that have lost their loved ones. Are you registered to vote? If you are not there is still time. The deadline to register to vote is on October 7th and the Supervisor Of Elections will close the book. You can register online at: www.BrowardVotes.gov - Or you can call: (954) 357 -VOTE (8683). If you want to vote by mail, you must request your ballot no later than October 21st by 5:00 pm. You can also do this by calling: (954) 357-7055. Or email: VoteByMailRequest@BrowardVotes.gov . You should mail your ballot right away. They will not be counted after 7:00 p.m. on November 5th even if postmarked before. You can always drop off your ballot at any Broward early voting site. Please make sure you sign the envelope. Early voting begins on October 21st and goes through November 3rd from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Our early voting is at our Cultural Center behind the library Federal Highway and Southeast 3rd Street. There are other sites where you can vote early but it must be a Broward location. These can be found at: www.BrowardVotes.gov Voting on Election Day will be at your polling location which is listed on your voter card. There are three locations in Hallandale Beach. The Towers of Oceanview on Parkview Drive in the Three Islands neighborhood, The Community Cultural Center behind the library is on Southeast 3rd Street and Federal Highway and Foster Park is located on 608 Foster Road right off Northwest 8th and Pembroke Road. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place by 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 News Next News >

St. Patrick's Day Recipes You'll Want to Make Year-Round www.Culinary.net February 23, 2023 Share Baked Bread to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. From hearty stews to minty pies, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are all about enjoying the flavors of the holiday. Whether you’re cooking up a full meal or simply serving appetizers, this Irish Potato Bread makes for a simple, tasty snack to feed your crowd. Find more celebratory recipes at: www.Culinary.net Irish Potato Bread • 2 medium or large russet potatoes • 1 egg • 1 egg white • 1/3 cup canola oil • 3/4 cup milk • 2 tablespoons green onion, minced • 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, • plus additional for dusting and kneading • 1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder • 1 teaspoon salt Heat oven to 375 F. Peel potatoes. Slice one potato and boil in saucepan 15 minutes, or until tender. Remove potato from saucepan into large bowl. Mash potato then set aside. Grate second potato onto cloth. Wring potato in cloth to remove excess water. Add grated potato to mashed potato in large bowl. Add egg, egg white, oil, milk, onion, caraway seeds, 3 1/4 cups flour, baking powder and salt. Stir with wooden spoon until mixture is soft and sticky. Turn dough onto floured surface. Adding flour as needed, knead dough to form 8-inch round shape with slight dome. Place dough onto baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut large “X” on top of dough about 1/2 inch deep. Bake 55 mins until golden brown. Cool on wire rack 1 hour before serving. A St. Patrick’s Day Sandwich In honor of the day when everyone is Irish, welcome family and friends to a traditional St. Patrick’s Day lunch with this Reuben Sandwich recipe. Reuben Sandwich Servings: 2 • 2 tablespoons butter, softened • 4 slices rye and pumpernickel swirl bread • 4 slices swiss cheese • 6 ounces corned beef • 2 tablespoons, plus 2 teaspoons, • Thousand Island Dressing, divided • 4 tablespoons sauerkraut Heat nonstick skillet over medium heat. Spread 1 tablespoon butter on one side of two bread slices. Place buttered side down in heated skillet. Add two slices cheese to each bread slice. Spread 2 tablespoons dressing over cheese slices. Add 3 ounces corned beef to each bread slice. Spread 2 teaspoons dressing over corned beef. Spread 2 tablespoons sauer-kraut over corned beef. Spread remaining butter on one side of remaining bread slices. Place buttered side up on top of sauerkraut. Cook 4-7 minutes each side, flipping once, until golden brown and cheese is melted. A Sweet St. Patrick’s Day Even if you’re not Irish, a green treat like this Luck o’ the Irish Mint Pie can get you and your guests into the festive spirit. With enough seasonal flavor to go around, this recipe makes two pies, so be sure to cut every leprechaun a generous portion. Luck o’ the Irish Mint Pie Makes: 2 pies (9 inches each) • 3 3/4 cups heavy whipped cream, divided • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened • 1 1/4 cups, plus 2 tablespoons, • powdered sugar, divided • 5 drops green food coloring • 1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided • 1/4 teaspoon mint extract • 1 bag mint chocolate candies, chopped, divided • 2 chocolate cookie crusts (9 inches each) • 1 bag mint chocolate candies To make filling: In bowl of stand mixer, whisk 2 1/2 cups heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Transfer to bowl. In separate stand mixer bowl, beat cream cheese on high 2 minutes. Gradually add 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar and green food coloring; mix until smooth. Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla and mint extract; mix well. Fold prepared whipped cream into cream cheese mixture. Fold 1 cup chopped mint chocolate candies into filling. To make frosting: In bowl of stand mixer, whisk remaining heavy cream and remaining powdered sugar. Add remaining vanilla extract and mix until stiff peaks form. Pour filling into crusts and smooth tops. Fill decorating bag with frosting and pipe thick band around edges of pies. Then pipe circle dollops evenly around edges of pies. Scatter 1 cup chopped mint chocolate candies in middle of pies. Place whole mint chocolate candies into each dollop of frosting around edges of pies. Refrigerate until firm, 5-6 hours. < Previous News Next News >

Be The Change Get Involved - "Giving Thanks On Good Friday" Street Block Parties South Florida Sun Times Apr 17, 2025 On Friday, April 18th, 2025, The Caring Place At Miami Rescue Mission | Broward Outreach Centers Will Host Their Annual "Giving Thanks On Good Friday" Block Party, A Heartfelt And Community-Driven Event For The Homeless, Hungry And Families In Need Across South Florida. In A World Where The Most Vulnerable Often Go Unseen, This Initiative Provides Not Just A Meal But A Reminder Of God's Love And The Hope Of A Better Tomorrow. The event, which will take place on the streets in Miami and Hollywood, will see over 200 volunteers come together to serve more than 2,000 Thanksgiving-style meals to those in need. But this isn’t just a typical charity gathering. True to its name, “Giving Thanks on Good Friday” is a celebration of community and compassion, with a variety of activities and services designed to uplift those who often feel forgotten. At the heart of the event is a sit-down Thanksgiving-style meal, offering Thanksgiving style meals to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. This gesture is more than just about providing a meal—it’s about offering dignity, respect and community. It’s a reminder that the homeless are not invisible. Volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that every guest feels valued and cared for. One of the most profound aspects of the event is the foot-washing station, where volunteers will wash the feet of guests, mirroring the actions of Jesus at the Last Supper. This powerful ritual of humility and love reinforces the central message of the event - that everyone is worthy of compassion, no matter their circumstances. It is a deep expression of faith and care that creates lasting emotional impact for both those receiving the service and those providing it. In addition to the warm meal, attendees will receive gifts that address some of their most basic needs. Over 1,000 Easter baskets, generously donated by community partners, will be distributed to children at the centers and to other families in attendance. These baskets, filled with toys, candies and other goodies, bring joy to children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to celebrate Easter in a traditional way. Special gifts like hygiene bags, clothing, shoes and socks will also be given to guests, helping to restore their sense of self-worth. These items, often taken for granted by those in more privileged circumstances, are invaluable to people living on the streets. Providing these necessities is a tangible reminder that people care and it creates a sense of comfort and dignity for the recipients. Entertainment will also play a key role in the day’s events. At the Miami Center, a powerful Resurrection play will be performed by residents, giving them an opportunity to showcase their talents and tell a story of renewal and hope. It’s a beautiful way to remind everyone that no matter how far down the road of hardship they may have traveled, there is always the potential for transformation. The event will also feature appearances by the Easter Bunny, made possible by supporters from the Mickle Family, bringing smiles to children’s faces and creating a festive atmosphere. The Miami Center will host a live remote Radio Share-A-Thon broadcast by WIOD 610 AM, allowing the community to get involved from afar. The Share-A-Thon’s goal is to raise 20,000 meals, with generous sponsors pledging to match contributions dollar-for-dollar. It’s a powerful example of how the community can come together to make a tangible impact, even beyond the streets where the event takes place. Guest speakers will deliver powerful messages of faith, hope and renewal throughout the event. Sam Miranda from Crossbridge Church will speak at the Miami Center, offering an uplifting and inspiring message to guests. Similarly, Pastor Kevin Stowe from New Hope Church at Southwest Ranches will address attendees at the Broward Center, encouraging them to find hope and strength in the face of adversity. This event is an opportunity for people of all backgrounds and faiths to come together, united in their shared desire to help others. It’s not just a charity event—it’s a powerful expression of community and love. By serving those in need, everyone involved is reminded of the strength of human connection and the power of compassion. How You Can Get Involved While the event is a large-scale operation, it is fueled by the support of individuals, organizations and volunteers from across the region. More than 200 volunteers will donate their time and energy to make this event a success, but the need for volunteers and donations is always ongoing. Whether you can spare a few hours of your time or make a financial contribution, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference. One key way the community can participate is by supporting the WIOD Good Friday Radio Share-A-Thon, where listeners can donate to match meals pledged by sponsors. The goal is to raise enough funds for 20,000 meals, and every contribution counts. Donors can visit: www.caringplace.org/radio - Or call: (305) 572-2000 to make their pledges. Tony Villasuso, President of The Caring Place at Miami Rescue Mission | Broward Outreach Centers, emphasizes the importance of these events: “It’s a true privilege to serve the most vulnerable in our community with meals, care and compassion. Our Giving Thanks on Good Friday Outreach is more than just a meal—it’s a message of love and hope to homeless and at-risk families. We want them to know they are not forgotten and that there is a path forward. Many individuals make the decision to leave the streets and join one of our life-changing programs during this time. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors, the dedication of our volunteers and the unwavering support of our community. I pray a special blessing over each and every one of them” For more information on how to participate, visit: www.caringplace.org Previous Next

Biblical Women Speak Hearing Their Voices Through New And Ancient Midrash By jps.org Jun 18, 2026 What Were Biblical Women Thinking And Doing When The Men Around Them Received All The Attention And Glory? How Did Leah, Rachel, And Their Handmaids Negotiate The Complicated Family Dynamics Of Four Women Vying For Jacob’s Affections? What Compelled Potiphar’s Wife To Risk Her High Station To Seduce Joseph, An Enslaved Foreigner? How Did The Midwives And Pharoah’s Daughter Conspire To Rescue Baby Moses, Right Under Pharoah’s Nose? Biblical Women Speak employs midrash (interpretative techniques) to discover ten biblical women’s stories from a female point of view and provide insights beyond how ancient male scholars viewed them. Each chapter brings alive a different biblical woman, including non-Israelite characters and others who are neglected in classical rabbinic texts, such as Keturah (Abraham’s last wife), Bat Shuah (Judah’s wife), Shelomith (the infamous blasphemer’s mother), and Noah (one of Zelophehad’s brave daughters who demanded inheritance rights). After each featured text we hear a creative retelling of the woman’s story in her own voice, followed by traditional midrash and medieval commentaries and the author’s reflections on how these tales and interpretations are relevant for today. Rabbi Marla J. Feldman’s book is an engaging invitation to enter biblical narratives, challenge conventional wisdom, and recalibrate the stories and lessons through the lens of our own lives. Praise “Meeting these new role models of Jewish womanhood—some famous, others voiceless or infamous and nameless in the Torah—left me both enlightened and delighted. Reading the biblical text, rabbinic commentary, modern midrash, and Rabbi Feldman’s contemporary commentary illuminated four dimensions of these remarkable women.”—Maggie Anton, author of Rashi’s Daughters. “Rabbi Marla J. Feldman is a marvelous teacher, and in Biblical Women Speak she proves to also be a weaver of ancient, modern, and original texts that give voice to women of the Bible who were often ignored or nameless, filling a void that has existed for centuries. Accessible for both beginner and advanced students, Biblical Women Speak should be required in any class of midrash.”—Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields, Executive Director, Women’s League for Conservative Judaism. “Rabbi Marla Feldman has created a dynamic and compelling conversation among the generations. Both individuals and groups will admire her captivating modern midrashic interpretations and her expert navigation of traditional texts. Feldman shows us how fresh and relevant our sacred tradition can be!”—Rabbi Mary L. Zamore, Executive Director, Women’s Rabbinic Network. “Rabbi Marla Feldman has added an imaginative, insightful contribution to our collective Jewish library. As she creatively gives voice to both familiar and lesser-known female biblical characters, she shows why their stories matter for us as contemporary readers.”—Rabbi Andrea L. Weiss, Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Provost, Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion. “I am very impressed by the author’s creativity and in-depth understanding of her characters… There are ten retellings (or stories) in this stunning collection… Most of the stories focus on characters that we don’t usually think about… What is most interesting to me is how she enables us to empathize with these marginal biblical women. The book is arranged meticulously and is clearly well-researched… I plan to use Feldman’s fascinating midrashim…in my future classes.”—Naomi Graetz, Times of Israel blog. “Women in the Bible are often unnamed, defined solely by their relationships with others. Take Judah’s wife, for example. She is known as Bat Shua, or ‘daughter of Shua.’ This labeling, or lack thereof, makes it easy for stories like hers to be subsumed by those of men. Feldman, by contrast, dives into these women’s stories, bringing them to life with depth and insight. Feldman’s analysis of Miriam’s story is a standout of the book.”—Jewish Book Council. “For the most part the sages neglected these minor [female] characters or viewed them negatively. Feldman brings this conversation into the modern era: She composes midrashim that turn these biblical characters into real human beings, facing problems familiar to those of women (and men) today…who deserve our attention and our respect, and who should never be cast out of our community.”—Moment Magazine. “Readers looking to better understand midrash will particularly enjoy the sections on classic commentary, while those interested in new ways of understanding the text will find the contemporary midrash of interest. Biblical Women Speak would also make an excellent text for Torah discussion groups.”—The Reporter, Jewish Federation of Greater Binghamton. “An inspirational book which speaks to us of the issues of our times… through Jewish classical, modern and feminist lenses… A masterpiece of scholarship, creativity and exquisite writing.”—The Jerusalem Report. “Like the traditional rabbis and commentators, [Rabbi] Feldman tells biblical verses, and midrashic commentaries, and lifts them out of their context, refashions them, and creates new understandings which can speak to us in our day.”—Women in Judaism e-journal. “Few things are more powerful than bringing a voice to the voiceless. Biblical Women Speak is an excellent model for what bringing a voice to the voiceless can look like in the twenty-first century. Our rabbinic community will benefit from the masterful work.”–CCAR Journal: The Reform Jewish Quarterly. To purchase, visit: https://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu/jps/9780827615144/biblical-women-speak/ Previous Next