South Florida Symphony Orchestra Spirited Season- Acclaimed Pianist Svetlana Smolina Returns To Enchant Audiences At The Parker And At New World Center In Miami Beach South Florida Sun Times Jan 1, 2026 South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) Continues Its 28th Spirited Masterworks Season Of “Juxtapositions” With Two New Sparkling Evenings Of Music Led By SFSO’s Award-Winning Music Director Sebrina Maria Alfonso. On Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 At The Parker In Fort Lauderdale, Located At 707 Northeast 8th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33004 And On Thursday, January 22, At New World Center In Miami Beach, 500 17th Street, Miami, Florida 33139 Rhythmic Drive Meets Lyrical Beauty In An Exhilarating Program Brimming With Wit And Brilliance, Anchored By The Sweeping Power Of Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2. SFSO Fan-Favorite Svetlana Smolina Also Returns For Ravel’s Jazzy And Spirited Piano Concerto In G Major, And Vaughan Williams’ Ethereal Fantasia On A Theme By Thomas Tallis Opens The Evocative Evening. Both Concerts Begin At 7:30 p.m. On Thursday, January 22nd, 2026 At New World Center, 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. “Sibelius, Ravel, and Vaughan Williams each beautifully reveal a different facet of musical expression,” said Maestra Sebrina Maria Alfonso. “Sibelius’ sweeping Second Symphony grows from quiet introspection into a radiant, triumphant finish; Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G shines with jazzy brilliance through Svetlana Smolina's signature artistry; and Vaughan Williams' otherworldly Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis offers a warm, lyrical serenity. Bringing this spectrum of sound to our audiences in Fort Lauderdale and Miami is truly inspiring.” Among her many accolades, Pianist Svetlana Smolina has performed with major orchestras and in recitals worldwide, including the New York Philharmonic, Mariinsky Orchestra, St. Petersburg Philharmonic, Orchestre National de France, Salzburg Festival, Hollywood Bowl, Ravinia, White Nights in Saint Petersburg, Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Moscow Easter Festival, Rotterdam Philharmonic, Hanoi Opera House, London’s Royal Opera Covent Garden, and Rome’s Accademia Santa Cecilia. She has appeared frequently with South Florida Symphony Orchestra, including during its 25th Anniversary Season, and will also be the featured guest artist at the Symphony’s 2026 gala on Saturday, January 17th, 2026. Her discography includes the solo album Romantic Journey and a 2025 recording of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra, both produced by Luca Rustici for L’n’R Productions/Universal Music. Other recordings include Chopin for iTunes, Scriabin on Pentatone, a live concert with Christopher O’Riley in Montana, and a Walt Disney Concert Hall recording for BCM+D Records. Her performances have aired on NPR, WQXR, BBC, PBS, RAI, and Kultura TV. Her recording of Stravinsky’s Les Noces with Valery Gergiev received an International Classical Music Award (ICMA). Smolina has collaborated in chamber music with Ida Haendel, Vadim Repin, Narek Hakhnazaryan, Kian Soltani, Charlie Siem, and others, performing at venues including Koerner Hall (Toronto), Salle Garnier de Monte Carlo, and Teatro Lirico di Cagliari. Recent engagements include tours in China, Peru, Brazil, Japan, Greece and Spain and festival appearances at iPalpiti, Classical Tahoe and Triumph Music Festival. 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 Dvorak’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 contemporary 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. 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 now on sale beginning at $35 (plus ticketing fees). For Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 Fort Lauderdale tickets, buy tickets online at: https://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. For Thursday, January 22nd, 2026 Miami Beach tickets, buy tickets online at: https://southfloridasymphony.org - By phone at: (305) 673-3331. Or in-person at the New World Center Box Office. Season subscriptions from $84 (plus fees) are still available for the Miami season at New World Center and Flex Passes are available in Fort Lauderdale. Discounted subscription packages and Flex Passes may be purchased by visiting: https://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. For additional information, visit: https://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 Maria 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: https://southfloridasymphony.org . Previous Next

Congratulations To The First Ever: Don Soffer Aventura High School Students Graduate Fri Jun 09 2023 16:19:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Dr. Seuss, Adventure & Natural Beauty: Why Western Massachusetts Is Your Next Great Family Getaway South Florida Sun Times Feb 27, 2025 If you're planning a family trip for the next school break or long weekend, how about a destination offering unique attractions for the whole family? Whether you're traveling when there's still snow on the ground or after spring has sprung, there's a wealth of fun attractions and activities to explore in Western Massachusetts. Here's just a sampling of what you can discover. Oh, the places you'll go! Did your kids grow up reading Dr. Seuss books? If so, you'll want to check out the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum in Springfield, Massachusetts, the town where Dr. Seuss — also known as Theodor Geisel — was born in 1904. Kids will enjoy the lively exhibits and interactive play stations. Even better, time your visit to celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday on March 2nd. Then stop at the nearby Springfield Science Museum, where budding scientists can indulge their curiosity about the natural sciences, anthropology and physical sciences. Through May 4th, The Robot Zoo exhibit will explore the biomechanics of complex animal robots to discover how real animals work. Make sure to save time for a Seymour Planetarium show to further ignite their imaginations — the sky's the limit. Hungry for more? Take a trip through The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other beloved stories at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, where your children can learn how their favorite books were created. This venue is a slam dunk: Did you know Springfield, Massachusetts, is also the birthplace of basketball? For fans of the world's most popular sport, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is a must-see. Learn about the game from its very beginnings to today, experience the fun interactive exhibits, then test your skills on the Jerry Colangelo "Court of Dreams." The Hall of Fame also hosts events year-round, so it's best to check their calendar before planning your trip. One highlight is Hooplandia, the Northeast's Ultimate 3x3 Basketball Tourney and Festival held in June. Shine a little light on the subject: Creative kids will have a "scentsational" experience at the Yankee Candle® Village in South Deerfield, offering special events all year including live music, games, seasonal attractions — and even the chance to create your own custom scent in a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Kids and kids-at-heart will be dazzled by the 7-foot-tall gumball machine and over 125 different types of candy. You can also enjoy craft beer, pizza, wraps and salads to fuel your visit. Make sure not to miss the awe-inspiring Candle Emporium featuring 200,000 candles. Get outdoorsy together: While your kids may not be as awed by the area's stunning natural beauty as you are, the range of outdoor activities will thrill them. During winter you can choose from numerous area resorts for activities including skiing and snow tubing, such as at the Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort in Hancock or Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont for tons of family-friendly outdoor fun. Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center in Northfield, Massachusetts, offers year-round activities including cycling, boating, fishing, paddle sports and more. Adventure seekers will definitely want to check out the Catamount Zip Tour at Catamount Mountain when the weather warms up. Their two-hour outdoor experience includes three dual-zipline spans and a chairlift ride up the mountain. The final span of the tour — the "Cata-monster" — is the longest zipline span in the U.S., just over one mile long. The ultimate family fun spot: From April through October, you'll thrill the family with a day or two at Six Flags New England in Agawam, which offers exciting rides suitable for a variety of ages, plus water rides, live shows, family entertainment, dining, shopping and more. Check their website for hours, reservations and other information to help you make plans before booking your travel. Entertainment galore: You'll find all kinds of entertainment options for your family at the MGM Springfield Casino. While those under 21 aren't allowed on the casino floor, there's so much more to this resort that will make your family vacation memorable, including the city's only AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel, which also offers dog-friendly accommodations, an ice rink, a bowling alley, a movie theater, a rooftop pool, concerts and numerous dining options — not to mention close proximity to dozens of area attractions. Whatever will make your vacay special, you'll find it in Western Massachusetts. Plan your next amazing family adventure at: https://ExploreWesternMass.com While your kids may not be as awed by the area's stunning natural beauty as you are, the range of outdoor activities will thrill them. Previous Next

I Like Big Dogs and I Cannot Lie Thu Mar 17 2022 04:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Right to Be Let Alone: What to Do When COVID Strike Force Teams Come Knocking By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead July 22, 2021 Share A federal COVID-19 Vaccination Strike Force may soon be knocking on your door, especially if you live in a community with low vaccination rates. Will you let them in? More to the point, are you required to open the door? The Biden Administration has announced that it plans to send federal “surge response teams” on a “targeted community door-to-door outreach“ to communities with low vaccination rates, in order to promote the safety and accessibility of the COVID-19 Vaccines. That’s all fine and good as far as government propaganda go-es, but nothing is ever as simple or as straightforward as the government claims, especially, not when armed, roving bands of militarized agents deployed by the Nanny State show up at your door with an agenda that is at odds with what Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis referred to as the constitutional “right to be let alone.” Any attempt by the government to encroach upon the citizenry’s privacy rights or to establish a system, by which the populace can be targeted, tracked and singled out, must be met with extreme caution. These door-to-door “visits” by COVID-19 Surge Response Teams, certainly qualify as a government program, whose purpose, while seemingly benign, raises significant constitutional concerns. First, there is the visit itself. While government agents can approach, speak to and even question citizens, Americans have a right not to answer questions or even speak with a government agent. Indeed, you don’t even need to answer or open the door in response to knocking/ringing by a government agent and if you do answer the knock, you can stop speaking at any time. You also have the right to demand that government agents leave the property, once the purpose of the visit is established. When the government’s actions go beyond merely approaching the door and knocking, it risks violating the Fourth Amendment, which requires a warrant and probable cause of possible wrongdoing in order to search one’s property. A government agent would violate the Fourth Amendment, if he snooped around the premises, peering into windows and going to other areas in search of residents. Second, there is the danger inherent in these knock-and-talk encounters. Although courts have embraced the fiction that “knock and talks” are “voluntary” encounters that are no different from other door-to-door canvassing, these constitutionally dubious tactics are highly intimidating confrontations meant to pressure individuals into allowing the police, access to one’s home, which then paves the way for a warrantless, search of one’s home and property. The act of going to homes and taking steps to speak with occupants is akin to the “knock and talk” tactic used by police, which can be fraught with danger for homeowners and government agents alike. Indeed, “knock-and-talk” policing has become a thinly veiled, warrantless exercise, by which citizens are coerced and intimidated into “talking” with heavily armed police who “knock” on their doors in the middle of the night. “Knock and talks” not only constitute severe violations of the privacy and security of homeowners, but the combination of aggression and surprise employed by police is also a recipe for a violent confrontation that rarely ends well for those on the receiving end of these tactics. Third, there is the question of how the government plans to use the information it obtains during these knock-and-talk visits. Because the stated purpose of the program is to promote vaccination, homeowners and others who reside at the residence will certainly be asked if they are vaccinated. Again, you have a right not to answer this or any other question. Indeed, an argument could be made that even asking this question is improper, if the purpose of the program is merely to ensure that Americans “have the information they need on how both safe and accessible the vaccine is.” Of course, there is always the danger that this program could be used for other, more nefarious, purposes not related to vaccination encouragement. As with knock-and-talk policing, government agents might misuse their appearance of authority to gain entrance to a residence and obtain other information, about it and those who live there. Once the door is opened by a resident, anything the agents can see from their vantage point, can be reported to law enforcement authorities. Moreover, while presumably the targeting will be of areas with demonstrated low vaccination rates, there is no guarantee that this program would not be used as cover for conducting surveillance on areas deemed to be “high crime” areas as a way of obtaining intelligence for law enforcement purposes. Finally, you have the right to say “no.” Whether police are knocking on your door at 2 am or 2:30 pm, as long as you’re being “asked” to talk to a police officer who is armed to the teeth and inclined to kill at the least provocation, you don’t really have much room to resist, not if you value your life. Mind you, these knock-and-talk searches are little more than police fishing expeditions carried out without a warrant. Here’s the bottom line. These agents are coming to your home with one purpose in mind: to collect information, on you. You shouldn’t answer any questions that you’re uncomfortable an-swering, about your vaccine history or anything else. The more information you give them, the more it can be used against you. Just ask them politely, but firmly, to leave. It’s important to be as clear, as possible and you may wish to record your encounter with the government agent. You can also post a “No Trespassing” sign on your property to firmly announce, that you are exercising your right to be left alone. In this case, as in so many interactions with government agents, the First, Fourth and Fifth Amendments (and your cell phone recordings, of the encounter) are your best protection. Under the First Amendment, you don’t have to speak (to government officials or anyone else). The Fourth Amendment protects you against unreasonable searches and seizures by the government. Under the Fifth Amendment, you have a right to remain silent and not say anything, which might be used against you. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People, while the courts may increasingly defer to the government’s brand of Nanny State authoritarianism, we still have rights. The government may try to abridge those rights, it may refuse to recognize them, it may even attempt to declare martial law and nullify them, but it cannot litigate, legislate or forcefully, eradicate them out of existence. 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 >

What Kind Of Food Should You Feed Your Dog? Thu Dec 12 2024 19:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Aventura Branch Library Happenings: Financial Literacy Workshop, Book Discussion And Much More Fri May 06 2022 04:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

South Florida Salutes America At 250 - Communities Across Broward And Miami-Dade Counties Are Planning Special Events To Mark The Nation’s Semiquincentennial By John Bernardo Jun 18, 2026 Historians Claim That July 4, 1776 Marked The Time When 13 American Colonies Declared Independence To Escape Great Britain’s Brutal Rule. Fast forwarding to 2026, specifically on the Fourth of July, many South Floridians and Americans will traditionally commemorate Independence Day while they munch on hamburgers, hot dogs, and then watch fireworks light up the night sky. However, this July Fourth will not be ordinary and it’s not expected to be just about folks waving American flags, saluting stars and stripes, and glancing at glossy posters of Uncle Sam. Moreover, it will not be strictly about holiday decorations of red, white and blue that overlook grills and picnic tables. That’s because this year marks a milestone titled: “United States of America 250,” which means America will soon reach another significant time in its history when it turns 250 years-old! In fact, below is a list of communities in Broward and Miami-Dade counties that on July 4, plan to make the nation’s 250th Birthday extra special. In Broward County, beginning at 4:00 p.m., the City of Deerfield Beach at its main beach area, will be celebrating 250 years of freedom with a festive Fourth of July full of music and fun. Then starting at 9:00 p.m., fireworks will be displayed by the ocean. More information, call: (954) 250–4239. In Margate, city officials will oversee an event honoring America’s 250th Birthday with a morning parade (begins at 9:00 a.m.), a family pool party (1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.), a concert, and food trucks on the northwest corner of Margate Boulevard and State Road 7 (5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.). Then at 9:00 p.m., the City will end the party with a firework show. Additional information, call: (954) 972–6458. In Coral Springs, there will be a mega celebration at Mullins Park on 10000 Ben Geiger Drive, featuring a live performance by the Absolute Bon Jovi Tribute Band, family fun zones, and extensive food truck options. The grand fireworks display is set to illuminate the sky at 8:45 p.m. More information, call: (954) 344–1111. Heading east to Pompano Beach Boulevard in Pompano Beach, the City will launch its Beach Bash Extravaganza with a dynamic ocean lineup. Expect live bands rocking the sand all afternoon, food vendors, and a spectacular firework show visible up and down the coast. More information, call: (754) 307–5446. In Sunrise, the City expects to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with its “Stars and Stripes: 250 Years of Smiles” festivities. The day kicks off with a morning parade, some family fun, and an evening concert and fireworks show at the Amerant Bank Arena, One Panther Parkway. More information, call: (954) 747–4600. Meanwhile, the City of Fort Lauderdale, specifically at Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas, will salute the 250th Anniversary of America with its ‘Fourth of July Spectacular’ as the centerpiece of their 250 Celebration. The day-long event includes live bands, beach games, a massive Kids Zone with water slides, and a dazzling firework display on the oceanfront at 8:45 p.m. More information, call: (954) 828–8000. In Pembroke Pines, its commemoration will be at the City Center. As part of their America 250 Celebration, the City is hosting a massive community block party and festival. The event will consist of a city-wide art project called “CommUNITY,” patriotic lighting installations, live entertainment, and a firework finale. More information, call: (954) 392–2116. In Hollywood, the City is celebrating America’s 250th birthday by elevating its annual “Star Spangled Spectacular” into an enhanced beachside event. The festivities will take place along the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, featuring a live DJ, live music, and an official welcome by Mayor Josh Levy and the City Commission. At 9 p.m., a dazzling fireworks display will be seen up and down the shoreline. Additional information, call: (954) 921–3620. In Miami-Dade County, the City of Miami will observe America’s 250th Birthday through the Miami-Dade 250 initiative. The county’s signature Independence Day program will be hosted at Tropical Park from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., featuring live music, food vendors, family activities, and a fireworks display. Additionally, the downtown Miami waterfront, including Bayfront Park and the Miami River, will have open-air concerts ranging from jazz to Latin pop, culminating in stunning fireworks framed by the skyline, and a drone show. The celebration is part of the year-long Miami-Dade 250 initiative, which honors the United States’ semiquincentennial through culture, arts, and community storytelling. More information, call: (305) 250–5300. In North Miami, the City is observing “America 250” by hosting its Annual “Independence Day Celebration by the Bay.” The gathering will be held at the FIU Biscayne Bay Campus, 3000 Northeast 151st Street. This community, family-friendly jubilee features live music, family activities, food, and a splendid firework display. More information, call: (305) 893–6511. In the meantime, Coconut Grove is saluting the country’s 250th birthday with its Annual Independence Day event at Peacock Park. This celebration features a concert by the Miami Symphony Orchestra, a “Taste of the Grove” food festival, kids’ zones, and an amazing fireworks and drone show over Biscayne Bay. More information, call: (305) 442–8695. In Coral Gables, the City in partnership with the Biltmore Hotel, will throw a Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks Show at 1200 Anastasia Avenue. The evening consists of live music, a festive barbeque, a fireworks finale, and a special choreographed drone show highlighting a remarkable milestone: “America’s 250th Anniversary.” Additional information, call: (305) 446-6800. In Miami Beach, the city is going all out to commemorate the nation’s 250th Birthday, anchoring the giant celebration around a host of patriotic exhibits, military salutes, and waterfront festivities. The main celebrations will feature live entertainment, drone shows, and fireworks at Altos Del Mar Park (77th Street) in North Beach and along Ocean Drive in South Beach. More information, visit the official portal: Miami Beach Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday. Or call: (305) 673–7000. Furthermore, the Town of Cutler Bay is organizing its Annual Golf Cart Parade and Picnic at Whispering Pines Park to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary. Cutler Bay’s community patriotic gathering will kick off with a parade (begins at 9:00 a.m.). Then at 10:00 a.m., a picnic commences at Whispering Pines Park, featuring a cookout, live music, face painting, National Anthem performances, and Town Council remarks. Then to wrap up the commemoration, starting at 11:15 a.m., there will be a special U.S. Air Force flyover which will pay tribute to the nation’s Birthday. More information, call: (305) 234–4262. In addition, the Village of Key Biscayne is hosting its Annual 4th of July Parade, with 2026’s event themed around the country’s 250th Birthday. The parade commences at 10:00 a.m., traveling along Crandon Boulevard. Following the parade, the Rotary Club will put together a traditional barbecue on the Village Green Park at 450 Crandon Boulevard. More information, call: (305) 361–5207. Also, the City of Homestead is commemorating America’s 250th Birthday by organizing an extra-ordinary “Race to the Fourth” event at the Homestead-Miami Speedway, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Activities planned there include amusement rides, games, live music, patriotic performances, and it concludes with a firework show synced to pop and patriotic hits. Additional information, call: (305) 224–4570. There will be fireworks and drone show over many areas of Broward and Miami Dade. South Floridians will be celebrating 250 years of freedom with a festive Fourth of July full of music and fun. Previous Next

Need A New AC? The End of Summer Sale At The AC Outlet Is Open To The Public Thu Oct 07 2021 04:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Gulfstream Park Village Puts Fun on the Map with Live Music, Exciting Racing and It’s New Destination, The Carousel Club! April 8, 2022 Share South Florida’s ultimate home store, entertainment and restaurant destination offers activities for all to enjoy. Gulfstream Park Village remains the place to be with incredible can’t-miss events! As South Florida’s premier entertainment, dining and restaurant destination, Gulfstream offers events and happenings for all ages in an open-air environment. Gulfstream Park’s newest dining destination, The Carousel Club opened April 1st, 2022 and it has been a huge success. Named for the antique carousel bar at its center, this highly anticipated arrival offers an experience like no other. A full bar with imaginative cocktails, chic décor and a see-and-be-seen atmosphere promise to make The Carousel Club one of South Florida’s favorite gathering spots. The indoor/outdoor trackside venue will include foodie pop-ups: Spris Artisan Pizza, Ms. Cheezious and Los Altos Taqueria with others to be announced. The Carousel Club is the perfect spot for watching a race or taking in the sounds of a live DJ Fridays-Sundays. Make this part of your weekend plans and prepare for an experience that delights all of the senses. Music in the Park, Gulfstream Park Village’s favorite live entertainment series, continues its weekly performances with the area’s favorite duos and trios. Taking place Wednesday through Sunday nights from 6:30-9:30 p.m., Music in the Park is sure to get audiences dancing. These open-air performances take place in the center stage and feature homegrown musical talent, ranging from jazz to today’s greatest hits. Free to attend, Music in the Park has proven to be one of Gulfstream’s most popular ongoing events. Get ready for a great day at the races. What better way to celebrate summer than with some thrills at the track? The Gulfstream Park Summer Meet hosts some truly suspenseful races such as the Summit of Speed, the Florida Bred Series and the Florida Sire Stakes. Whether you bring your family or friends, you’re in for a summer to remember. “Gulfstream Park Village is pleased to offer a full season of events and programming. Racing is one of South Florida’s favorite spectator sports and the opening of The Carousel Club offers a new environment to enjoy these races. For those who love live music, ongoing dates for Music in the Park feature some of South Florida’s top talent,” said Alex Schreer, Director of Experiential Marketing for Madison Marquette, the management company for Gulfstream Park Village. “For locals and visitors alike, Gulfstream Park offers a dynamic environment with unique, one-of-a-kind experiences.” Entertainment for Everyone Gulfstream Park Village offers a variety of ongoing entertainment destinations, including PlugIN Karaoke that features private rooms perfect for a night out. For the action-seeking crowd, Strike 10 Bowling offers food and fun for groups or families as well as plenty of arcade fun. Color Me Mine pottery painting is both a romantic and creative date-night favorite as well as a fun activity for kids. Dining That Delights Gulfstream Park Village offers a variety of dining options, so there is something to keep everyone satisfied! For a big night out or just a quick grab-and-go, guests can enjoy options including Yard House, Christine Lee’s, Texas de Brazil, Häagen-Dazs, Pastry Is Art, Belly Fish, Alma Grill and Ten Palms at the Gulfstream Park Clubhouse. Off to the Races Guests of all ages can enjoy daily racing at Gulfstream Park. Admission to races is free and high season brings the industry’s top jockeys and horses to high stakes races. For those looking to try their luck, Gulfstream Park Casino is open 365 days a year and offers a dynamic offering of socially distant slots and video game tables for a thrilling experience. Look and Feel Your Best Gulfstream Park Village has a variety of health and beauty options for those who want to look and feel their best. Visitors can visit Venetian Nail Spa to enjoy a manicure or pedicure or schedule an appointment at Ideal Image Med Spa, which offers a number of cosmetic medical services. Nadia Paris, an upscale French hair salon, offers services that enhance the natural beauty of guests’ hair. For those looking to get in a quick workout without all of the work, Impulse Body Fitness is the latest method of personal training with a suit that does it all through science and technology. This workout can burn up to 2000 calories in just 25 minutes! About Gulfstream Park 
Gulfstream Park is South Florida’s premier entertainment, dining and restaurant destination, located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, anchored by the legendary Gulfstream Park Racetrack. Gulfstream Park not only offers world-class Thoroughbred horse racing but is also home to a casino and family-friendly venues including over 15 restaurants, outdoor cafés, art galleries, fashion retailers, a state-of-the-art bowling alley and a renowned selection of signature home stores. Gulfstream Park was voted a 2020 Top Travelers' Choice Winner by TripAdvisor, it is located at 901 South Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009 and is just two miles east of I-95. Valet service and complimentary self-parking are available. Gulfstream Park is open seven days a week. For hours, schedules, upcoming events and additional information, visit: https://www.gulfstreampark.com Or call: (954) 454-7000. < Previous News Next News >

Despotism Is the New Normal: Looming Threats to Freedom in 2022 By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead January 13, 2022 Share Despotism has become our new normal. (des·pot·ism - noun - the exercise of absolute power, especially in a cruel and oppressive way) Digital tyranny, surveillance. Intolerance, cancel culture, censorship. Lockdowns, mandates, government overreach. Supply chain shortages, inflation. Police brutality, home invasions, martial law. The loss of bodily integrity, privacy, autonomy. These acts of tyranny by an authoritarian government have long since ceased to alarm or unnerve us. We have become desensitized to government brutality, accustomed to government corruption, and unfazed by the government’s assaults on our freedoms. This present trajectory is unsustainable. The center cannot hold. The following danger points pose some of the greatest threats to our collective and individual freedoms now and in the year to come. Censorship. The most controversial issues of our day - gay rights, abortion, race, religion, sexuality, political correctness, police brutality, et al. - have become battlegrounds for those who claim to believe in freedom of speech but only when it favors the views and positions they support. Thus, while on paper, we are technically free to speak, in reality, we are only as free to speak as the government and tech giants such as Facebook, Google or YouTube may allow. Yet it’s a slippery slope from censoring so-called illegitimate ideas to silencing truth. The Emergency State. Now that the government has gotten a taste for flexing its police state powers by way of a bevy of lockdowns, mandates, restrictions, contact tracing programs, heightened surveillance, censorship, overcriminalization, etc., “we the people” may well find ourselves burdened with a Nanny State inclined to use its draconian pandemic powers to protect us from ourselves. This is the power grab hiding in plain sight. Pre-crime. The government is about to rapidly expand its policing efforts to focus on pre-crime and thought crimes. Precrime aims to prevent crimes before they happen by combining widespread surveillance, behavior prediction technologies, data mining, precognitive technology, and neighborhood and family snitch programs to enable police to capture would-be criminals before they can do any damage. The intent is for the government to be all-seeing, all-knowing and all-powerful in its preemptive efforts to combat domestic extremism, a broad label that can be applied to anything or anyone the government perceives to be a threat to its power. The Surveillance State. This all-seeing fourth branch of government, comprised of a domestic army of government snitches, spies and techno-warriors, watches everything we do, reads everything we write, listens to everything we say, and monitors everywhere we go. Beware of what you say, what you read, what you write, where you go, and with whom you communicate, because it is all being recorded, stored, and catalogued, and will be used against you eventually, at a time and place of the government’s choosing. Genetic privacy. “Guilt by association” has taken on new connotations in the technological age. Yet the debate over genetic privacy - and when one’s DNA becomes a public commodity outside the protection of the Fourth Amendment’s prohibition on warrantless searches and seizures - is really only beginning. Get ready, folks, because the government has embarked on a diabolical campaign to create a nation of suspects predicated on a massive national DNA database. Bodily integrity. The debate over bodily integrity covers broad territory, ranging from abortion and forced vaccines to biometric surveillance and basic healthcare. Forced vaccinations, forced cavity searches, forced colonoscopies, forced blood draws, forced breath-alcohol tests, forced DNA extractions, forced eye scans, and forced inclusion in biometric databases are just a few ways in which Americans continue to be reminded that we have no control over what happens to our bodies during an encounter with government officials. Gun control. After declaring more than a decade ago that citizens have a Second Amendment right to own a gun in one’s home for self-defense, the Supreme Court has now been tasked with deciding whether the Constitution also protects the right to carry a gun outside the home. Indeed, while it still technically remains legal to own a firearm in America, possessing one can now get you pulled over, searched, arrested, subjected to all manner of surveillance, treated as a suspect without ever having committed a crime, shot at, and killed. Show Your Papers Society. By allowing government agents to establish a litmus test for individuals to be able to engage in commerce, movement and any other right that corresponds to life in a supposedly free society, it lays the groundwork for a “show me your papers” society in which you are required to identify yourself at any time to any government worker who demands it for any reason. Singularity. The digital universe - the metaverse - is expected to be the next step in our evolutionary transformation from a human-driven society to a technological one. Remaining singularly human and retaining your individuality and dominion over yourself - mind, body and soul - in the face of corporate and government technologies that aim to invade, intrude, monitor, manipulate and control us may be one of the greatest challenges before us. Despotism. The gravest threat facing us as a nation may well be despotism, exercised by a ruling class whose only allegiance is to power and money. The American kakistocracy continues to suck the American people into a parallel universe in which the Constitution is meaningless, the government is all-powerful, and the citizenry are powerless to defend themselves against government agents who steal, spy, lie, plunder, kill, abuse and generally inflict mayhem and sow madness on everyone and everything in their sphere. It is a grim outlook for a new year, but it is not completely hopeless. If hope is to be found, it will be found with those of us who do their part, at their local levels, to right the wrongs and fix what is broken. I am referring to the builders, the thinkers, the helpers, the healers, the educators, the creators, the artists, the activists, the technicians, the food gatherers and distributors, and every other person who does their part to build up rather than destroy. “We the people” are the hope for a better year. Until we can own that truth, until we can forge our own path back to a world in which freedom means something 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, we’re going to be stuck in this wormhole of populist anger, petty politics and destruction that is pitting us one against the other. In such a scenario, no one wins. 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 < Previous News Next News >

Need A Water Damage & Mold Expert? 1st Priority Restoration Will Fix The Problem March 2, 2022 Share If your home has been damaged by water from a leaking pipe, intruding water from all the current rains or mold damage from moisture over time. How are you going to address these problems in your home? A Restora-tion Company such as 1st Priority Restoration is usually the first company to call following significant damage to a home from floods, water damage, sewage backup and other major water events. The job of a restoration company is to clean up the mess and to preserve the home, protect the home and its contents so that further damage will not occur. Flood damage can be found in any geographical area, regardless of elevation. The causes of flooding can range from natural disasters, burst pipes, leaking pipes, rain storms or sewer lines that are backing up. Even in a condo, you could have a water leak in your wall, under a toilet or behind a kitchen cabinet creating mold that can cause damage to your property and your health. 1st Priority Restoration can find the source of the leak, fix it, restore your property and work directly with your insurance. Regardless of the cause, restoration professionals are called upon to repair water damage, mold damage and restore flooded properties. The water damage restoration process is highly regulated in order to ensure that properties damaged by flood or sewer events, can be effectively restored to a safe space for a homeowner to remain safe during the cleanup. You need a company such as 1st Priority Restoration who you can trust to do the job correctly. The process is simple, when 1st Priority Restoration arrives, they will thoroughly walk through your home and discuss the areas that need to be cleaned & restored to their original condition. Your insurance company adjuster or claim representative may recommend what and how your home should be cleaned, but in the end, it is your decision to make. In the past year, we have all heard the word “Mitigation” more times than we can count, but with water damage, that is exactly what needs to be done. Water damage restoration does not stop at restoring your real estate back to proper functioning. The professionals at 1st Priority will inspect the underlying causes that have caused the water damage in the first place and make sure there won’t be a reoccurrence. They will repair all of the damaged structures and replace the materials to make your property safe, for years to come. If your property has been exposed to water damage, you may have to do water mitigation. Strict actions are required in water mitigation, such as: removal of damaged materials such as drywall and flooring. Molds and mildew that have accumulated in areas in your property will be disinfected and deodorized to restore a healthy environment. Further cleaning and deodorizing should be done to make sure that your real estate is back in tip-top shape. Water damage mitigation should happen immediately after flooding or water buildup. Take action immediately, because letting your property sit in water can cause further damages and expenses. Materials soaking in water collect microbes and spread water-borne diseases. Furniture, wood flooring and walls will crack, sag and collect fungi after prolonged exposure to moisture. If your property is particularly old, it may be time to replace materials such as pipes to prevent a reoccurrence of water damage. If pipes are behind walls, it may require more extensive repairs. The water mitigation process will depend on how long your property has been exposed to water. Air humidifiers and drying equipment must be turned on around the clock in areas with severe water damage. Mold spores are especially dangerous to health and thorough cleaning and disinfecting should be done as part of the water damage mitigation. It is advisable to get the temperature, humidity and moisture of your property tested to see if it has been restored to normal standards, 1st Priority professionals can handle the entire process. After 1st Priority Restor-ation evaluates the work and equipment needed to clean your home, they will provide you QUICKLY with an estimate or contract/services. LEAK DETECTION: One tiny water leak can create huge problems. An undetected water pipe leak will not only dramatically increase your utility bills, but it can also lead to even more expensive water damage and mold. If you’ve had higher than average water bills, constantly have to refill your pool or hear running water, it’s time to call the leak detection specialists at 1st Priority Restoration! Is water pipe leak detection possible if the pipes are behind a wall? Yes, using the newest state-of-the-art detection tools, highly trained technicians are able to locate water pipe leaks that are hidden behind walls. They can even provide water plumbing leak detection within concrete slab foundations. Will insurance cover the cost of plumbing leak detection services? That all depends on your home's insurance plan. In many situations, when there is a need for water damage restoration, many insurance companies will cover the related costs. 1st Prior-ity Restoration representatives can work directly with your homeowners insurance to verify the need for the plumbing leak detection service, cause of the problem and the repairs that will be required to fix the situation. NEVER FOOL AROUND WITH MOLD & MILDEW: When it comes to mold and mildew, we cannot take those potential hazards lightly. A mold problem can cause you to experience dizziness, anxiety, depression and even hallucinations. If you have been experiencing a diminished attention span or problems with your memory, it might be a good idea to have your home inspected for black mold by a mold remediation crew. For people sensitive to mold, inhaling or touching mold spores can cause allergic reactions, including sneezing, runny nose, red eyes and skin rashes. People with serious mold allergies may have more severe reactions, including shortness of breath. At 1st Priority Restoration, this is what they do 365 days a year, nobody knows how to prevent potential dangers like they do. By dialing: 1 (800) 617-1112 – you can save financially and your health as well! MOLD AND YOUR HOME: Mold is found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the outside air can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, bags and pets, which can be carried indoors. Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, pipes or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric and upholstery. With all of the rain and storms we have been having these past months, you can see a pattern of mold growth that will last. From leaks, flooding / driving rain, mold growth is a certainty in South Florida. If you are concerned that you might have a mold or mildew problem, it is best to call the professionals. Your health is your most impor-tant asset, so just like you go see a doctor for tests, your home needs tests too. VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION: There are some important ways that we can prevent the spread of mold and what you can do to get rid of it. Keep an eye out for hidden leaks: Wet spots on your ceiling, the baseboards or on the floor are a telltale sign of a leaky pipe or roof. Your home's pipes are behind drywall, which can leave a small leak unnoticed. Mold can grow behind those walls and filter into the air through ducts or pipes. At 1st Priority, they can come in and assess the situation before it gets worse. Did you know that many air conditioner systems/ducts are susceptible to mold growth? They often trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for spores. Bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms create a lot of excess heat and humidity, especially here in south Florida – whether it is from a shower, stove or even a dryer, all of these areas should be well ventilated. Education is key to anything – when our health is at stake – knowing that mold spores can lay dormant for years after they are produced and could begin growing again at any time, it is extremely important to know. Because of this, regular cleanings and having 1st Priority Restoration to depend on, will certainly make our lives much easier. Ever wonder why you or your children wake up coughing and sneezing on a regular basis? The CDC may have the answer. According to the CDC, in 2004 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found that there was sufficient evidence to link indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, coughing, sneezing and wheezing in otherwise healthy people and in individuals susceptible with compromised immune conditions. Mold or mold spores may cause asthma attacks in people who have asthma and are allergic to mold. Even in some nonallergic individuals, mold can cause symptoms of irritation in the eyes, skin and airways. For example, the "black mold" Stachybotrys, along with some other types of mold, produce toxins known as mycotoxins that can cause irritation of the skin and airways in susceptible individuals. Sometimes, people may develop severe reactions to mold exposure, but cleaning and sanitizing by professionals you can trust, can help. EXPERIENCE IS EVERYTHING: With decades in the business, 1st Priority Restoration is a reputable company with over 20 employees that are licensed and insured. They have been doing all types of cleaning, sanitizing, leak/mold detection and water damage restoration for more than a decade. "We use the most efficient cleaning and water removal equipment to make sure that our customers are satisfied with the job we do for them. We try to use nontoxic (Green) safe chemicals for all mildew treatments. In all of the years that we have been helping our customers with water damage, they have always been pleased with the work that we do and we have never received a single complaint!” YEAR ROUND SERVICE: If you have lived in south Florida for any period of time, you already know that the weather is ever changing, for that reason, the rainy season can happen at any time. It doesn’t have to be a tropical system to cause flooding and everything that goes along with it, a leak or burst pipe can happen at any time of year, 1st Priority Restoration is available to help get your home back to a healthy environment for you and your family. What continues to separate them from anyone else is that they can take care of all of your water damage problems - as well as conducting leak and mold detections, working with your insurance company and your adjuster. By calling 1st Priority Restor-ation, you are getting a business that understands it all and is ready to spring into immediate action 12 months a year. From ceiling repair, drywall replacement, structural damage, roof leaks, floor repair, furniture cleaning, mold removal and treatments, they have it all covered. CUSTOMERS ARE ALWAYS SATISFIED: "If a customer calls and is not completely satisfied with any of the work, the crew will return promptly to your property. We strive to make our customers 100% satisfied. Proud member of the Better Business Bureau. $25 OFF MOLD TESTING! 1st Priority Restoration 1-800-617-1112 1-800-996-7919 Closed Saturday & Jewish Holidays. < Previous News Next News >