The White House Goes Rogue: Secret Surveillance Program Breaks All the Laws By John & Nisha Whitehead December 7, 2023 Share The government wants us to believe that we have nothing to fear from its mass spying programs as long as we’ve done nothing wrong. Don’t believe it. It doesn’t matter whether you obey every law. The government’s definition of a “bad” guy is extraordinarily broad, and it results in the warrantless surveillance of innocent, law-abiding Americans on a staggering scale. For instance, it was recently revealed that the White House, relying on a set of privacy loopholes, has been sidestepping the Fourth Amendment by paying AT&T to allow Federal, State and Local Law Enforcement to access—without a warrant—the phone records of Americans who are not suspected of a crime. This goes way beyond the NSA’s Metadata Collection Program. Operated during the Obama, Trump and now the Biden Presidencies, this secret dragnet surveillance program (formerly known as Hemisphere and now dubbed Data Analytical Services) uses its association with the White House to sidestep a vast array of privacy and transparency laws. According to Senator Ron Wyden, Hemisphere has been operating without any oversight for more than a decade under the guise of cracking down on Drug Traffickers. This is how the government routinely breaks the law and gets away with it: in the so-called name of national security. More than a trillion domestic phone records are mined through this mass surveillance program every year, warrantlessly targeting not only those suspected of criminal activity but anyone with whom they might have contact, including spouses, children, parents, and friends. It’s not just Law Enforcement Agencies investigating Drug Crimes who are using Hemisphere to sidestep the Fourth Amendment, either. Those who have received training on the program reportedly include Postal Workers, Prison Officials, Highway Patrol Officers, Border Cops and the National Guard. It’s a program ripe for Abuse and you can bet it’s getting abused. Surveillance, Digital Stalking and the Data Mining of the American people—Weapons Of Compliance and control in the government’s hands—haven’t made America any safer and they certainly aren’t helping to preserve our Freedoms. Indeed, America will never be safe as long as the U.S. Government is allowed to shred the Constitution. The Fourth Amendment was intended to serve as a protective forcefield around our persons, our property, our activities, our communications and our movements. It keeps the government out of our private business except in certain, extenuating circumstances. Those extenuating circumstances are spelled out clearly: Government Officials must have probable cause that Criminal Activity is afoot (a higher legal standard than “reasonable suspicion,”) which is required by the Constitution before any Government Official can search an individual or his property. Unfortunately, all three Branches Of Government—the Legislatures, Courts and Executive Offices—have given the Police State all kinds of leeway when it comes to sidestepping the Fourth Amendment. As a result, on a daily basis, Americans are already being made to relinquish the most intimate details of who we are—our biological makeup, our genetic blueprints and our biometrics (facial characteristics and structure, fingerprints, iris scans, etc.)—in order to clear the nearly insurmountable hurdle that increasingly defines life in the United States: we are now guilty until proven innocent. Warrantless, dragnet surveillance is the manifestation of a lawless government that has gone rogue in its determination to do whatever it wants, whenever it wants, the Constitution be damned. This creepy new era of government/corporate spying—in which we’re being listened to, watched, tracked, followed, mapped, bought, sold and targeted every second of every day—has been made possible by a global army of techno-tyrants, electronic eavesdroppers, robotic snoops and digital Peeping Toms. The government has a veritable arsenal of surveillance tools to track our movements, monitor our spending and sniff out all the ways in which our thoughts, actions and social circles might land us on the government’s naughty list, whether or not you’ve done anything wrong. Rounding out the list of ways in which the Techno-Corporate State and the U.S. Government are colluding to nullify the privacy rights of the individual is the Biden Administration’s latest drive to harness the power of artificial intelligence technologies while claiming to protect the citizenry from harm. In his Executive Order on Artificial Intelligence, President Biden is calling for guidelines on how the government will use AI while simultaneously insisting that corporations protect consumer privacy. It is ironic that the very government that has been covertly invading our privacy rights, wants to appoint itself the guardian of those rights. Tell me this: how do you trust a government that continuously sidesteps the Constitution and undermines our rights? You can’t. A government that repeatedly lies, cheats, steals, spies, kills, maims, enslaves, breaks the laws, overreaches its authority, and abuses its power at almost every turn can’t be trusted. At a minimum, you shouldn’t trust the government with your Privacy, Property or Freedoms. Whatever else it may be—a danger, a menace, a threat—the U.S. Government is certainly not looking out for our best interests. Remember the purpose of a good government is to protect the lives and liberties of its people. Unfortunately, what we have been saddled with is, in almost every regard, the exact opposite of an institution dedicated to protecting the lives and liberties of its people. All of those freedoms we cherish—the ones enshrined in the Constitution, the ones that affirm our right to Free Speech and Assembly, due process, privacy, bodily integrity, the right to not have police seize our property without a warrant, or search and detain us without probable cause—amount to nothing when the government and its agents are allowed to disregard those prohibitions on government overreach at will. This is the grim reality of life in the American Police State: our so-called rights have been reduced to technicalities in the face of the government’s ongoing power grabs. With every court ruling that allows the government to operate above the rule of law, every piece of legislation that limits our freedoms, and every act of government wrongdoing that goes unpunished, we’re slowly being conditioned to a society in which the Constitution means nothing. What we need is a digital “No Trespassing” sign that protects our privacy rights and affirms our right to be left alone. Then again, as I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, what we really need is a government that respects the rights of the citizenry and obeys the law. 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 >

Get In The Habit Of Laughing: Slow Burn Theatre Musical Comedy "Sister Act" Hits The Stage This February January 25, 2024 Share Slow Burn Theatre Company presents Sister Act, the divine feel-good musical comedy smash hit, in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts from Saturday, February 3rd through Sunday, February 18th. Based on the hit 1992 film, the musical follows Disco Diva Deloris Van Cartier, who witnesses a murder and is placed in protective custody in the one place the cops think she’ll never be found - a convent. It seems like she’s made a deal with the devil until she begins to make friends with the sisters and starts to shake things up. Featuring original music by Tony and Eight-Time Oscar® Winner Alan Menken (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors) and lyrics by Glenn Slater, this heavenly score is filled with the sounds of Motown, Soul and Disco. In a review of the Broadway production, which was nominated for five Tony Awards including Best Musical, the New York Times reported, “When the wimples start quivering, the pinched mouths break into sunbeam smiles, and the nuns start rocking to raise the Gothic rafters, all’s right in the kingdom of musical comedy at ‘Sister Act.’ Who could resist the vision of a stage full of saintly sisters flaring their gams in unison like the Rockettes, or swiveling their hips, Supremes style, to the silken beat of an R&B tune?” In a cast second to nun, Mandi Jo John makes her Company Debut in the role of Deloris and is joined by Paulette Olivia, Matthew Korinko, Ryan Crout, Darius J. Manuel, Chaz Rose, David L. Murray Jr., Gianfranco Imbert, Natasha Ricketts, Mikayla Cohen, Ellie Pattison and Ashley Rubin. The Production is also blessed with a talented ensemble featuring Amanda Lund, Kristi Rose Mills, Celia Hinds, Jill Lustig, Madeline Dunn, Elizabeth Sackett, Heather Simsay, Ally Rosenblum, Lauren Marie Abraham, Nicolette Quintero, Michael Materdomini, Aaron Atkinson, Joey Rodriguez and Corey Vega. Director Patrick Fitzwater leads a heaven sent creative team and technical team composed of Music Director Wilkie Ferguson, Choreographer Trent Soyster, Scenic Designer Sean McClelland, Lighting Designer Clifford Spulock, Production Stage Manager Matthew Luppino and Assistant Stage Manager Vickie Anderson. Costumes are provided by Costume World Theatrical with costume coordination by Rick Peña. Performance times vary with an open captioned performance generously underwritten by the Amaturo Family Foundation on Sunday, February 11th at 2:00 p.m. in which spoken dialogue scrolls across a digital screen as the action takes place on stage. Based on the Touchstone Pictures Motion Picture, Sister Act was written by Joseph Howard and is based on the book by Cheri Steinkellner and Bill Steinkellner with additional book material by Douglas Carter Beane. Slow Burn Theatre Company’s production of Sister Act is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International. The 2023/2024 Slow Burn Theatre Company Season is presented by American National Bank and continues with The Prom from March 23rd - April 7th and The SpongeBob Musical from June 8th - June 23rd. Major support for the Slow Burn Theatre Company is provided by the Broward County Cultural Division, the Cultural Council and the Broward County Board of County Commissioners and sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Like us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter - And at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at: @BrowardCenter. Subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter - And join the conversation with #BrowardCenter. The Broward Center 2023/2024 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and UHealth University of Miami Health System. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. About The Broward Center For The Performing Arts One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 700 performances each year to more than 700,000 patrons, showcasing a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level and UHealth-University of Miami Health System Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion, waterfront dining at Marti’s New River Bistro and innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. With one of the largest arts-in-education programs in the United States, the Broward Center serves more than 100,000 students annually. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org < Previous News Next News >

Bows and Arrows of Love: Lessons of The Great Sage and Mystic Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai Thu May 19 2022 04:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Inspirations In Jazz - Seven Concerts, World-Class Artists. One Unforgettable Season South Florida Sun Times Oct 1, 2025 The Gold Coast Jazz Society (GCJS) unveils its 34th season of performances with the 2025–2026 Concert series, "Inspirations in Jazz." The seven-concert series runs November through April at The Broward Center for the Performing Arts' Amaturo Theater, 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. Each concert starts at 7:45 p.m. This season showcases an exciting mix of New Orleans jazz, straight-ahead, Brazilian and international artists alongside local talent. Headliners include the Dirty Dozen Brass Band on Wednesday, November 12th, Allan Harris, on Thursday, December 4th, Niki Haris with the Shelly Berg Trio on Wednesday, January 14th, 2026, Diego Figueiredo & Friends on Wednesday, February 4th, 2026, Karrin Allyson on Wednesday, March 11th, 2026, Michael Kaeshammer on Wednesday, March 25th 2026 and Grace Kelly Quartet on April 15th, 2026. “Our new season celebrates the inspiration that jazz brings — joy, creativity, and connection,” said Gold Coast Jazz Society's Executive Director, Pam Dearden. “Audiences will experience everything from New Orleans funk and Brazilian rhythms to classic swing and fresh contemporary sounds, as we continue to appreciate and celebrate the truly classical art form of jazz." Season Details: Subscriptions: Full Season $336 or Jazz Trio $159, choose any 3 concerts. Members receive subscription discounts. Single Tickets: $65, available at: www.goldcoastjazz.org - Or at the Ticketmaster box office at: (954) 462-0222. Student, teacher, and group discounts offered. If you become a member of Gold Coast Jazz Society, you’ll get a discounted rate on full or jazz trio subscriptions, and also be a part of a group that aids and educates the next generation of jazz enthusiasts, through our Scholarship Program and our in-school JazzSLAM as well as our First Friday Jazz Jams. We invite you to participate in either a Full Season Subscription or a Jazz Trio to really appreciate the joy of our concert series alongside fellow jazz enthusiasts once a month. For subscription information and single ticket sales please visit our website at www.goldcoastjazz.org and begin your journey with Jazz! The series kicks off on Wednesday, November 12th, with the return of the popular Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Direct from New Orleans with 'An Evening of New Orleans Jazz, Funk, and Soul,' we hope to have you dancing in the aisles! Celebrating over 48 years since their founding in 1977, this Grammy-winning New Orleans-based band has taken the traditional foundation of brass band music and incorporated it into a blend of genres, including bebop jazz, funk, and R&B/soul. With their special “musical gumbo,” the Dirty Dozen has toured across five continents and more than thirty countries. Thursday, December 4th will feature jazz vocalist Allan Harris in "Poetry of Jazz." The Brooklyn-born, Harlem-based vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and band leader, is a true luminary in the world of music. Revered by the Miami Herald as an artist graced with "the warmth of Tony Bennett, the bite and rhythmic sense of Sinatra, and the sly elegance of Nat ‘King' Cole," Harris stands as an embodiment of moving and magisterial artistry. As Harlem’s own modern-day troubadour, Harris takes classic poetry — from Shakespeare’s sonnets to Langston Hughes and the Harlem Renaissance — and drops it into the deep pocket of jazz. He’ll be joined by his fantastic group of jazz musicians. Jazz vocalist Niki Haris joins us on Wednesday, January 14th, 2026 alongside The Shelly Berg Trio. Niki is a multi-talented singer, dancer, actress, choreographer, and daughter of the Grammy® nominated jazz pianist Gene Harris. Her vocal collaborations include a “Who’s Who” of the music business. She has worked with jazz greats from Stanley Turrentine, Joe Sample, and the Jazz Crusaders to recordings with Ray Charles to Mick Jagger, Whitney Houston, Sheryl Crow, and many others. Shelly Berg is a Steinway piano artist and five-time Grammy® nominated arranger, orchestrator, and producer, with numerous recordings to his credit. Not only a performer, he is the Dean of the University of Miami’s prestigious Frost School of Music, host of Generation Next on Sirius XM, music director for The Jazz Cruise, and artistic advisor for the Jazz Roots series at the Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami. “Shelly Berg has always been a musician’s musician. And even for jazz enthusiasts who had considered Berg to be a technically-astounding and aggressive pianist with unstoppable energy,” says Don Williamson of JazzReview.com. Back by popular demand, Diego Figueiredo and Friends will return on Wednesday, February 4th with The Jazz Duets. Acclaimed as one of the greatest guitarists in the world, Figueiredo will perform a series of duets with his fantastic jazz friends, Nestor Torres on flute, pianist Shelly Berg and percussionist Sammy Figueroa. An extraordinary star among the world's greatest jazz guitarists, Figueiredo’s superb technique, timing and imagination have made him one of the hottest international names. His unique skills and his concert performances have been a success in more than 60 countries around the world. He has released 28 CDS, three DVDs and a book. “I suggest that anyone who knows or appreciates the greatest jazz guitarists who ever lived check out this Brazilian genius," says Jazz Impresario Todd Barkan. On Wednesday, March 11th Gold Coast Jazz Society will present jazz vocalist Karrin Allyson in her "Karrin’s Kaleidoscope" show. For her Kaleidoscopeconcerts, Karrin eases through an eclectic array of styles she’s known for, from her 5 Grammy® nominated recordings, to the Great American Songbook; from Classic Pop songs to her own originals from “Some of That Sunshine;” from French chansons to Brazilian classics; from the Blues and Bebop to songs of justice and beyond. Showcasing the material of such artists as Bonnie Raitt, Joni Mitchell, Carole King, James Taylor, The Beatles, Billy Joel, Carmen McRae, Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Blossom Dearie, Shirley Horn, Mose Allison, Joao & Astrud Gilberto, Rosa Passos, Djavan, Edith Piaf, and her own material, this show is soulful and heartfelt, and her band is always top-notch. The March 25 concert will feature the return of the internationally-renowned Canadian pianist and vocalist, Michael Kaeshammer. This show is part of his "Turn it Up" 2024/2025 Tour. The acclaimed Canadian virtuoso pianist and singer, Kaeshammer has earned an international following as a triple threat: a technical master of many different moods, an eloquent singer-songwriter, and a charming and engaging performer. His signature style weaves classical, jazz, blues, boogie-woogie, stride, and pop into a rich and vibrant sonic tapestry. Turn It Up, Kaeshammer’s 15th album, is a dynamic and rollicking collection resistant to a single, catch-all genre. Closing our concert series on Wednesday, April 15th will be the jazz phenom, Grace Kelly, with her Quartet for her "Grace Kelly 20th Anniversary Tour." An unequivocal musical prodigy, singer-saxophonist-songwriter-composer and band leader, Kelly has rocked the jazz world with sold-out concerts, acclaimed albums and a resume that includes performing at the Hollywood Bowl and as part of the house band for “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” – all before reaching her mid-twenties. Kelly has performed and recorded with renowned artists including Lin Manuel- Miranda, Dave Brubeck, Phil Woods, Huey Lewis, Harry Connick Jr., Gloria Estefan, Questlove, and Wynton Marsalis. Grace is “[A] jazz innovator… Making jazz young” says Billboard Magazine. The Gold Coast Jazz Society is a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of jazz music through a mainstage concert series, free community concerts, educational programs, a jazz scholarship program, and musical services provided by the Gold Coast Jazz Society Band. Visit our website to continue your journey in jazz at: www.goldcoastjazz.org ! Funding for this organization is provided in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council. Concert sponsors include American National Bank, Funding Arts Broward, the Helen Ingham Foundation, the Richard Ingham Concert Fund, and the Mary N. Porter Funds/Community Foundation of Broward. Previous Next

Community Invited To Help Fill Thanksgiving Tables For Families In Need - Thanksgiving Dinner Packages, Corporate Catering And Holiday Event Bookings Also Available Now At The Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen Aventura Digest Nov 20, 2025 This Thanksgiving, Arc Culinary Invites The Community To Celebrate Without The Stress Of Cooking By Purchasing A Gourmet Holiday Dinner Package For 10 Or Help A Family In Need By Purchasing A Package For Donation. “No matter how you celebrate, Thanksgiving is a time to gather and give thanks,” said Craig Zeleznik, Chief Culinary Officer. “Our team is proud to prepare a traditional meal that not only tastes incredible but also helps support Arc Broward’s mission of transforming lives.” Arc Culinary’s chef-prepared Thanksgiving meal features a full spread of beloved holiday favorites with a gourmet touch, including a butter-basted, oven-roasted whole turkey cooked to golden perfection; a crisp romaine Caesar salad tossed in tangy dressing with parmesan and crunchy croutons; Arc-made gravy; classic herb stuffing baked with aromatic seasonings; a creamy green bean casserole topped with crispy onions; velvety Yukon Gold mashed potatoes whipped with butter; sweet potato casserole crowned with a pecan streusel topping; fresh cranberry sauce bursting with flavor; and a decadent pecan pie to complete the feast. The Thanksgiving Package is available at $235, serves eight to ten guests, and will be available for pick-up on Wednesday, November 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen in Sunrise. Along with enjoying a chef-prepared feast at home, customers are encouraged to share the spirit of the season by donating a Thanksgiving dinner package to a local Arc Broward family in need. Each purchase directly supports Arc Broward’s mission to strengthen the community by empowering people with disabilities to grow, develop and thrive. Beyond Thanksgiving, Arc Culinary offers full-service holiday catering for both private celebrations and corporate events. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or a large-scale party, clients can choose from off-site catering options or host their festivities on-site at the elegant Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen, where Arc Culinary’s professional team crafts customized menus to make every occasion memorable. To learn more or to order the Thanksgiving Package visit: https://arcculinary.com/holiday/ . To book corporate catering visit: https://arcculinary.com/corporate-catering/ . About Arc Broward Arc Broward has championed inclusivity since 1956, providing 21 programs across nine locations in Broward County, Florida. Its social enterprises, Arc Educates and Arc Culinary, offer transformative opportunities for individuals with disabilities by generating earned revenue that is reinvested into Arc Broward’s programs and people. For more information about Arc Broward, visit: https://arcbroward.com - Or call: (954) 746-9400. Previous Next

January Happenings At Morikami Museum And Japanese Gardens South Florida Sun Times Jan 1, 2026 Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens Is Pleased To Welcome Returning Guests And New Visitors Alike With A Plethora Of Exciting, Culturally-Enriched Programming, From Adult Workshops And Classes To Breathtaking Art Exhibits, Family Fare, And More. January workshops, classes, and demonstrations: Sundays: January 4th, January 11th, January 18th, January 25th, February 1st, 2026 The Art of Bonsai Time: Beginners - 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Intermediate - 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Cost: $100 (Morikami Members $90) Bonsai means "a tree in a tray." The art of Bonsai creates the illusion of age and maturity of a tree which has developed and sustained the effects of nature for many years. Students of bonsai learn to artfully trim and train a tree in a container. Sundays, January 4th, January 11th, January 18th, January 25th, February 1st, February 8th, February 15th, Febuary 22nd, 2026 Nihongo: Introduction to Japanese (Part 2, Virtual Class) Time: Level I - 7:20 p.m. – 8:20 p.m.; Level II - 6:10 p.m. – 7:10 p.m.; Level III - 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Cost: $120 (Morikami Members $110) Nihongo: Introduction to Japanese is a beginner and lower intermediate program teaching Japanese speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students are introduced to Japanese culture and lifestyles through lessons and conversation. Levels I and II use Japanese for Busy People I (JBP I) and levels III and IV use Japanese for Busy People II (JBP II). Fall, winter, and spring sessions of each level should be taken sequentially as a series. Sundays, January 4th, January 11th, January 18th, January 25th, February 1st, February 8th, February 15th, February 22nd, 2026 Nihongo: Introduction to Japanese (Part 2, In-Person Class) Time: Level I - 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.; Level II - 11:20 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.; Level IV - 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Cost: $120 (Morikami Members $110) Nihongo: Introduction to Japanese is a beginner and lower intermediate program teaching Japanese speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students are introduced to Japanese culture and lifestyles through lessons and conversation. Levels I and II use Japanese for Busy People I (JBP I) and levels III and IV use Japanese for Busy People II (JBP II). Fall, winter, and spring sessions of each level should be taken sequentially as a series. Sundays, January 4th, January 11th, 2026 Sado: Tea Ceremony Time: Beginners - 10:15am – 12:15pm*; Intermediate - 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Cost: $60 (Morikami Members $55) Expand upon your knowledge of Japanese tea ceremony in this hands-on class. Perform a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, with its ever-evolving seasonal subtleties, in the authentic Seishin-an Tea House under the guidance of instructor Yoshiko Hardick. The tea ceremony changes from month to month and from season to season. The intermediate course requires approval by the instructor before registering. *Sunday Beginner’s II Class Prerequisite: Participants must have already taken a Thursday Beginner’s I class session or a workshop to attend Sunday classes. Saturday, January 3rd, 2027 New Year’s Traditional Archery Demonstration: Omato-shiki Time: 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Cost: FREE with paid museum admission Experience the elegance and discipline of Omato-shiki, a rare and ancient ceremonial form of Japanese archery, performed by members of the Ogasawara-ryu American Branch. This ritual originated over 1,300 years ago and is a strictly codified ceremonial practice, performed with deep precision and reverence as an act of prayer. Omato-shiki is still performed at Shinto shrines across Japan as a prayer for good health, harmony, and safety in the year ahead. This demonstration provides a rare opportunity to witness an art form that blends history, spirituality, and discipline, offering a glimpse into the timeless world of Japanese tradition. Sunday, January 4th, 2026 Koto New Year Concert Time: 12pm and 2:30 p.m. Cost: $5 with paid museum admission Koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument first introduced to Japan from China in the 7th-8th centuries. Celebrate the New Year with a delightful concert with this exquisite instrument performed by the Morikami intermediate students. Tuesdays, January 6th, January 13th, January 20th, January 27th, 2026 Ikebana Flower Arrangement: Ikenobo School Time: Beginners - 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.; Intermediate - 1:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.* Cost: $90 (Morikami Members $80) *Intermediate courses are for students with prior experience or have taken at least three sessions of Ikebana classes. Flower arranging, ikebana, is a traditional Japanese art form spanning centuries. Ikebana has various different schools of study, each with unique philosophies and aesthetics. Dating back to the 15th century, the Ikenobo School is the oldest and most traditional. Students in this course learn the basic principles and style of Ikenobo, creating fresh flower arrangements each week to take home and enjoy. Tuesdays, January 6th, January 13th, January 20th, January 27th, February 3rd, 2026 Taiko Class Time: Adults - 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Grade 3-12 - 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Cost: $135 (Morikami Members $130) Taiko is a Japanese word, which means a Japanese drumming style, a drum group, drum music and a drum itself. There are a wide variety of shapes and sizes of taiko. Learn about the history, culture, and techniques of how to play this exquisite instrument in this five-week course. Instruments will be provided for participants to use in the class. Wednesdays, January 7th, January 14th, 2026 Ikebana Flower Arrangement: Sogetsu School Time: Beginners - 10:30 a.m. –12:30 p.m.; Intermediate - 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.* Cost: $67.50 (Morikami Members $60) *Intermediate courses are for students with prior experience. Flower arranging, ikebana, is a traditional Japanese art form spanning centuries. Ikebana has various different schools of study, each with unique philosophies and aesthetics. The Sogetsu School is a contemporary school which focuses on the creativity and individuality of ikebana. The idea is that ikebana can be done by anyone, anywhere, with almost anything. Students will learn the basics of Sogetsu and create pieces each week to take home and enjoy. Wednesdays January 7th, January 14th, February 11th, March 11th or Saturdays January 17th, February 21st, March 14th, 2026 Stroll for Well-Being Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. or 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Cost: Free to qualified applicants Immerse yourself in Morikami’s natural beauty, peace, and serenity through its therapeutic garden walking program. During three personalized sessions, a qualified facilitator will lead participants through themed walks and journal writing to encourage reflection and personal well-being. Thursdays, January 8th, January 15th, 2026 Sado: Tea Ceremony Time: Beginners - 10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.; Intermediate - 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.* Cost: $60 (Morikami Members $55) * The intermediate course requires approval by the instructor before registering. Expand upon your knowledge of Japanese tea ceremony in this hands-on class. Perform a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, with its ever-evolving seasonal subtleties, in the authentic Seishin-an Tea House under the guidance of instructor Yoshiko Hardick. The tea ceremony changes from month to month and from season to season. Saturdays, January 10th, January 17th, January 24th, January 31st, February 7th, 2026 Japanese Traditional Music: Koto Time: Beginners - 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; Intermediate - 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Cost: $155 (Morikami Members $150) Advance Registration Required The Koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument first introduced to Japan from China in the 7th-8th centuries. Learn about the history, culture, and techniques in how to play this exquisite instrument in this 5-week course. Instruments will be provided for participants to use in the class. Saturday, January 10th, 2026 Adult Calligraphy Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. or 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Cost: $40 Advance Registration Required Learn brush strokes using sumi ink and a brush to write Japanese characters. After practicing on paper, participants will create a final calligraphy on a shikishi board to take home. Thursday, January 15th, 2026 Karesansui Raking Demonstration Time: 10:30 a.m. Cost: FREE with paid museum admission. No Reservation Required Karesansui or dry landscape garden, is founded on Zen ideology using carefully composed rock arrangements and gravel or sand.  A karesansui is carefully raked to represent characteristics of water such as currents and waves while boulder arrangements may be interpreted as islands. Learn about our Late Rock Garden and observe how the raking can be a practice in mindfulness and meditation. Saturday, January 17th, 2026 Sado: The Way of Tea Time: 12:00 p.m. or 1:30 p.m. Cost: $5 with paid museum admission. Observe Japanese sado, an ever-changing demonstration rich in seasonal subtleties. Your involvement in the true spirit of sado — harmony (wa), reverence (kei), purity (sei), tranquility (jaku) — along with a sip of matcha green tea and a sweet will help bring a calm perspective into one’s busy life. Saturday, January 24th, 2026 Introduction to the Art of Kintsugi Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Cost: $70 Kintsugi is an inspired version of the traditional Japanese art form of mending broken pottery with gold powder. Friday, January 30th, 2026 Documentary Film: Come Back Anytime Time: 7:00 p.m. (57 minutes, 2021, Documentary) (In Japanese, subtitled in English) Cost: $7 (Members $5) For more than forty years, ramen master Masamoto Ueda has been serving his legendary Tokyo-style ramen to a community of regulars who are not only his customers, but true friends. After the film, enjoy a delicious sampling of yuzu hiyashi ramen (cold ramen) from Ramen Lab Eatery. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach, Florida 33446. For more information, call: (561) 495-0233. Or visit: https://morikami.org . Previous Next

South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s 28th Season Ignites With Electrifying Compositions South Florida Sun Times Oct 15, 2025 South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s (SFSO) 28th Season, “Juxtapositions,” Ignites With A Powerful Reminder That Even In Darkness, Light Will Always Find Its Way. Led By Award-Winning Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, SFSO Launches The Electrifying Evening With Beethoven's Freedom-Fighting Egmont Overture Followed By Saint-Saëns’ Fiery Cello Concerto No. 1 And Massenet’s Hushed “Méditation” From Thaïs Featuring GRAMMY®-Winning Cellist Virtuoso Zuill Bailey. Capping The Evening Is Brahms’ Symphony No. 1 – A profound Work That Took The Composer Decades To Complete, Beautifully Articulating One’s Journey From Darkness To Triumph. The Concert Will Take Place On Wednesday, November 5th At 7:30 p.m., At The Parker, Located At 707 Northeast 8th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. Enjoy A Pre-Concert Chat With Dr. Alan Mason 30 Minutes Before The Concert, Featuring In-Depth Conversation And Insights About The Works And Composers. “Each of the works we are presenting beautifully expresses challenges we can all relate to – when struggle becomes triumph, and the perseverance it takes to get there,” said Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso. “As we enter our 28th Season, I reflect on the resilience, grit, and dedication that South Florida Symphony has demonstrated throughout our history – and what has sustained us: the gift of performing live for our audiences. It is with pure joy that we share these profound, defiant, and utterly sublime works with you – music that acknowledges hardship and suffering, yet at its core fills you with hope, love, and optimism.” A work of extraordinary triumph that took decades to complete, Brahms’ First Symphony is an epic, deeply human piece reflecting the composer’s battles with self-doubt and perfectionism under the weight of Beethoven’s omnipresent shadow. From its brooding, stormy opening to the life-affirming finale, Brahms beautifully traces one’s journey from darkness to light. A signature of this work is the candescent French horn, brilliantly illuminating the path from despair to victory. Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1 is a whirlwind of movement—elegant yet fiery, delicate yet commanding. With no pause from start to finish, the music flows in an unbroken surge of passion and virtuosity. Audience favorite cellist Zuill Bailey returns to SFSO bringing his signature artistry to this expressive work. Beethoven’s freedom-fighting Egmont Overture portrays the tragic heroism of a man who makes the ultimate sacrifice in defiance of oppression and tyranny. Originally composed for violin, Massenet’s “Méditation” from Thaïs takes on new depth in this interpretation for cello—an SFSO first. A hushed prayer amid the opera’s high drama, this sublime interlude floats with quiet longing. Guest artist Zuill Bailey, who performed at SFSO’s inaugural concert and has returned many times since, is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier cellists. An award-winning, internationally renowned soloist, recitalist, artistic director, and teacher, Bailey combines celebrated artistry, technical mastery, and an engaging presence, making him one of the most sought-after and active cellists today. A prolific recording artist with over 20 albums, he won a GRAMMY Award in 2017 for Best Solo Performance for his live recording of Michael Daugherty’s Tales of Hemingway with the Nashville Symphony. The South Florida Symphony Orchestra was part of the consortium that commissioned the work, and Bailey has performed it multiple times with SFSO, highlighting the orchestra’s ongoing connection to this celebrated composition. The album also won GRAMMY Awards for Best Composition and Best Compendium. SFSO’s 28th Season of “Juxtapositions” explores beauty in contrasts, where the bold and the sublime intersect, and timeless masterpieces share the stage with today’s most compelling and celebrated musical voices. From Mozart’s vivacious “Haffner” symphony to the sun-drenched skies of Mendelssohn’s “Italian” and the sweeping emotion of Sibelius’ Violin Concerto — performances burst with color and power. Beethoven’s luminous Piano Concerto No. 4 and Dvořák’s Bohemian Eighth deepen the journey, while Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio espagnol whirls with Spanish flair. SFSO is also proud to present upcoming orchestra firsts by GRAMMY-nominated composers, including the Florida premiere of Had to Be by Haitian American Nathalie Joachim, featuring breakout cellist Seth Parker Woods, and Carlos Simon’s Four Black American Dances. Five Masterworks concerts will be held at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale from November 2025 through April 2026. Three Masterworks concerts will be held at New World Center in Miami Beach and at Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West from January through March 2026. From sold-out masterworks performances to accompanying today’s musicians such as Natalie Merchant and performing modern musical scores including Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas and Back to the Future, featuring the iconic films screened live with audio and musical accompaniment, South Florida’s largest symphonic orchestra is continuing its journey of excellence inspiring audiences of all ages and musical genres. Tickets are on sale now beginning at $35 (plus ticketing fees). Buy tickets online at: www.southfloridasymphony.org - Or: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222, press 1. And in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. Season subscriptions are available for the Fort Lauderdale Season at The Parker, the Miami Season at New World Center and Key West Season at the Tennessee Williams Theatre at The College of the Florida Keys. Discounted subscription packages may be purchased by visiting: www.southfloridasymphony.org/2025-26-season - Or by calling: (954) 522-8445. Subscribers save up to 20% off single ticket prices and have first access to the best seats in the house. Five-concert packages in Fort Lauderdale are available from $180*; three-concert packages from $84* in Miami; and three-concert packages in Key West from $90* (*Prices do not include ticketing fees or Handel’s Messiah tickets.). For additional information, visit: www.southfloridasymphony.org - Call: (954) 522-8445. Or email: info@southfloridasymphony.org . About South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, the Fort Lauderdale-based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is celebrating its 28th Season. SFSO is dedicated to providing enriching cultural music experiences to residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative programming and transformative educational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communities, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of over 130,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO was recently named the first Partner in the Arts for The Parker by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored. For a performance schedule and season tickets, call: (954) 522-8445. Or visit: www.southfloridasymphony.org . Major support for South Florida Symphony Orchestra is provided by PNC Private Bank; Nicklaus Children’s Health System; the Gerald L. Laskey Charitable Fund of the Community Foundation of Broward; the Broward County Cultural Division, the Cultural Council, the Broward County Board of County Commissioners; Aviah Flagler Village; The Maval Foundation; and Marand Builders. Additional sponsorship is provided, in part, by Funding Arts Broward; Ver Ploeg & Marino; City of Miami Beach, Cultural Affairs Program, Cultural Arts Council; with the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners; and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council; the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. Previous Next

Believe the Impossible December 30, 2021 Share Believe the impossible as we explore “Through the Looking Glass” at The Wiener Museum of Decorative Arts (WMODA) to celebrate the United Nations International Year of Glass and Fort Lauderdale Art & Design Week. The new season of cutting-edge exhibitions and events is inspired by Lewis Carroll’s surreal story of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland where she experiences a topsy turvy world not unlike ours today! “Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast...” said the White Queen as she challenges Alice’s imagination. See how glass artists collaborate at WMODA to create the impossible and shatter our illusions of glass. It’s hard to believe that fire and sand can be transformed into glass and that blowing bubbles of glass can create amazing art. Follow us down the rabbit hole and through the looking glass on Saturday, January 22nd, 2022. You will be blown away by live performances in the spectacular setting of Chihuly’s magical “garden” of glass. His flowers won’t answer back as in Alice’s looking glass garden but they are certainly otherworldly! Experience six impossible things “Beyond the Bubble” at WMODA… 1. A cool fashion show of wearable hot glass in Wonderland* 2. Innovative performances inspired by the sounds of glass* 3. Chihuly’s glass ceilings reimagined as magic carpets 4. Zany underwater art of Alice and the Mad Hatter 5. Stiletto shoes made of glass to make Alice swoon 6. Hearts and mirrors reflecting love and kindness to guide your way It is 150 years since Lewis Carroll launched Through the Looking Glass after Alice’s earlier adventures in Wonderland. Our young heroine experiences issues with intercultural communication which she overcomes with her curiosity, courage and believing in the impossible. We can all relate to these challenges in the creative process. Wearable Glass in Wonderland At the stroke of noon on January 22nd, 2022 Glass Art at WMODA will come to life as the iconic characters from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland show off their zany costumes in a fashion show featuring wearable glass art. Alice will follow the White Rabbit down the rabbit hole and through the looking glass to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. On her way, she will encounter some of the bizarre residents of Wonderland including the formidable Queen of Hearts, the Duchess and the grinning Cheshire Cat presented by Fashion Designer and Glass Artist, Chelsea Rousso. It gets “curiouser and curiouser” as Chelsea is also working with Fine Art Photographer Suzanne Barton to reimagine Alice’s impossible dreamscape underwater. Highlights of their unbelievable collaboration will be exhibited as part of this event. Limited pre-reserved seats* for the fashion show should be booked through Eventbrite. Resonance @ WMODA Also on January 22nd, 2022 Multi-Disciplinary Artist Dave Rosenthal and Glass Artist Rob Stern are collaborating to explore sound and glassmaking in their live performances of Resonance @ WMODA. They will unite glass and sound design in their improvisational dialogue with unusual glass instruments made and played by Rob and keyboard responses composed by Dave to create a musical score of synthesized sounds. Rob and Dave’s innovative performances of Resonance @ WMODA symbolize the cycle of life and creation in the glassmaking process. This immersive sensory experience will create a visceral response and expand perceptions of glass, the power of sound and their intersection. Resonance @ WMODA will be performed live on January 22nd, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Limited pre-reserved seats* for the Resonance performances should be booked through Eventbrite. Donations benefit the educational programs at WMODA, a 501c3 Not-For-Profit Museum. Don’t be late for this very important date at WMODA! #wmodabelievetheimpossible. < Previous News Next News >

Las Olas Wine And Food Festival: Fort Lauderdale’s Premier Charitable Wine And Food Experience Returns Thu Jan 04 2024 17:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Parker Stage This Weekend: Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe and Emo Orchestra With Escape The Fate May 2, 2024 Share In the heart of Fort Lauderdale, nestled within Holiday Park, lies The Parker, an iconic theater known for its rich history of hosting diverse cultural events. This Friday, May 3rd, comedy aficionados and enthusiasts alike will have the chance to witness the comedic genius of Tony Hinchcliffe, courtesy of The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and Outback Presents. The show promises an evening of side-splitting laughter as Hinchcliffe, renowned for his wit and humor, takes center stage at 7:00 p.m. Hinchcliffe, a stalwart of the comedy scene, has carved a niche for himself as the host of the wildly popular live podcast, "Kill Tony." Based out of The Comedy Store in Los Angeles, he brings with him a wealth of experience garnered from over a decade of comedic performances. However, it was in 2020 that Hinchcliffe embarked on a new venture, offering enthusiasts an opportunity to delve into the art of "Roasting" through his online course, the "RoastMaster Class." Drawing from his extensive background in writing for Comedy Central Roasts and participating in roast battles, Hinchcliffe's class offers a blend of entertainment and education, showcasing his comedic prowess in a new light. But Hinchcliffe's talents extend beyond the confines of the digital realm. He is a familiar face on the international comedy circuit, frequently touring alongside the likes of Joe Rogan. With appearances on the Joe Rogan Experience (JRE), the world's most popular podcast, Hinchcliffe has garnered a dedicated following drawn to his quick wit and unapologetic humor. Whether gracing the stage of renowned clubs in LA or headlining theaters across America, Australia, and Europe, Hinchcliffe's comedic prowess knows no bounds. This event will be a phone-free experience, immersing themselves fully in the moment without the distractions of modern technology. Cellphones, smart watches, and recording devices will be stowed away, allowing audiences to connect intimately with Hinchcliffe's comedic stylings without interruption. As the weekend unfolds, The Parker will continue to captivate audiences with another spellbinding performance on Saturday, May 4th. Emo Orchestra featuring Escape The Fate will grace the stage at 8:00 p.m., offering a one-of-a-kind live experience that combines the nostalgia of emo classics with the grandeur of orchestral arrangements. Escape The Fate, known for their emotive lyrics and anthemic melodies, will lead audiences on a journey through beloved emo hits of yesteryears. From the haunting melodies of Evanescence to the anthemic choruses of My Chemical Romance and Good Charlotte, fans will be treated to a symphonic rendition of their favorite songs. Paired with a world-class orchestra, this performance promises to reignite the passion and emotion synonymous with the emo genre, captivating audiences with its unique blend of rock and orchestral elements. Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - And at: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222; and in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. The Parker is an affiliated venue of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. The performance season at The Parker is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. The Parker The Parker is Fort Lauderdale’s iconic, heritage theater presenting concerts, comedy, dance, family fare and more. Beautifully renovated in 2021, The Parker offers audiences enhanced entertainment and hospitality experiences. The neo-classical Lillian S. Wells Hall features outstanding acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, wide rows and continental seating. The grand S. Donald Sussman Lobby, Bernie Peck’s Bar, the intimate Haller Club, and the private members’ lounge, The Place To Be, provide ample opportunities for audiences to enjoy culture, cocktails and conversation with every visit to the theater. For more information, visit: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com < Previous News Next News >

Hollywood’s Accela Launch Brings Services Together In One System By City of Hollywood Jul 9, 2026 A New Chapter In The City Of Hollywood’s Digital Permitting Services Is Expected To Begin In August With The Launch Of The Next Phase Of Its Online Permitting Platform. Following the successful rollout of Phase 1 in 2024, the upcoming implementation will expand the system to include all permit types within Development Service, including those handled by the Building Division, Planning and Urban Design, Engineering, and Transportation and Mobility, as well as services provided by other departments such as, Code Compliance. Once the transition is complete, the current BCLA system will be phased out and all associated applications and processes will move to Accela. The enhanced platform is designed to create a more streamlined customer experience by providing a single online location for submitting applications, monitoring project status, scheduling inspections and accessing case information. By consolidating services into one system, the City aims to improve accessibility, efficiency and transparency for residents, businesses and contractors. To support the transition, the City has provided training opportunities and will continue to offer helpful resources, including online tutorials, instructional materials and videos. Staff assistance will also be available in person throughout the rollout. Customers are encouraged to check the City’s website at: www.hollywoodfl.org for updates, resources and additional information as the anticipated launch date nears. Story time in the Park Friday, July 10th, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Washington Park, 5199 Pembroke Road, Hollywood, Florida 33023 Join us throughout Hollywood’s District 6 for monthly story time events with surprise guest readers! Each child will receive a free book to take home, courtesy of the Children’s Services Council and Broward Reads. This month’s special guest reader is Remy Powell, Hollywood resident, Florida Future Chef Champion, and young author. Parents and caregivers are welcome to bring a lawn chair. Blankets will be provided for children to sit and enjoy the stories comfortably. Previous Next

Kindness: Break The Cycle of Indifference By Bryan Golden June 30, 2022 Share There is undue rudeness and thoughtlessness in every day interpersonal interaction. Friends, relatives, and strangers can act inconsiderately. More and more people are under increasing amounts of stress. Work, commuting, family, kids, errands, chores are among the many factors that can induce anxiety that causes individuals to be irritable. People have become isolated and detached from one another. Earlier in history, everyone depended on each other for their wellbeing. Someone would always make an effort to help a person in distress. Neighbor helped neighbor without being asked. Today, when a Good Samaritan engages in an act of kindness it becomes a newsworthy story. Acts of kindness that were commonplace in yesteryear are now the rare exception. You can be more ignored broken down on the side of a busy highway than you would have been stranded on a dirt road. It's ironic that as the population grows, individuals have become increasingly discourteous. Rudeness easily becomes a vicious cycle that influences all who come into contact with it. You have the power to break the cycle. You can be nice and act with kindness. You can surprise people with unexpected consideration. Although there are exceptions, the vast majority appreciates courtesy. When you act nicely, you feel better than when projecting bitterness. Your actions are entirely within your control. How you behave affects everyone you come into contact with. There are a number of simple strategies you can take to improve how you and others feel. Don't respond in kind if you are treated poorly. Respond in a nicer way than you are treated. Endeavor to consistently wear a smile. A smile causes you to feel better and radiates positive energy. Go out of your way to be kind and look for ways to help others. Offer help especially when you don't have to. Spreading kindness doesn't cost a penny yet provides priceless rewards. There are numerous things you can do on a daily basis which will bring joy to all. Here are some simple suggestions that you can utilize anytime and anywhere. But don't limit yourself to these, think of other ways to spread kindness. Smile, say hello and make eye contact. Greet a stranger you pass on the street, in the hall, or in the mall and, you will be surprised how often they say hello in return. Always say please when you ask for something and thank you when someone serves or helps you. Even when a person's job requires them to attend to you, a sincere thank you will always brighten their day. Whenever you speak with someone, keep a smile on your face. Be aware of the needs of people around you. Hold doors open for others. Open the door for someone whose arms are full of packages or for someone pushing a stroller and let them go ahead of you. Thank those who hold a door for you. While shopping, when you have a lot of items, let someone who has only a thing or two get in front of you in the register line. On the road, allow other drivers to pull in front of you when trying to merge onto the road. Be courteous and take care not to cut off other drivers. Break the cycle of indifference. Set an example for others. Always be on the lookout for ways to be kind. Do more than you have to. Do the unexpected. Do whatever you can to make someone else feel good. 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 >