A Time To Celebrate: 41st Annual Dinner Of Congregation Levi Yitzchok-Lubavitch / Chabad of South Broward Thu Sep 22 2022 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Rocket Man Show Blasts Onto The Stage At The Moss Center Aventura Digest Feb 17, 2026 Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On This Glittering Opportunity To See Scotsman Rus Anderson Perform Sir Elton John’s Greatest Hits In The Rocket Man Show. Recommended For Ages 13 And Older, The Performance Happens Saturday, February 28th, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. At The Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center. Tickets Are Available At: https://www.mosscenter.org/mc/eventDetail.page?id=429 Rus is Elton’s official stunt and body double for an array of projects. Hand-picked by Elton himself to reinterpret highlights of his powerhouse career, Rus brings authentic, explosive showmanship to this must-see performance. In The Rocket Man Show, audiences will experience an extravagant recreation of Elton’s most beloved songs, including “Crocodile Rock,” “Tiny Dancer,” “I’m Still Standing,” and “Your Song.” Rus dazzles in Elton’s original, personally owned costumes from the 1970’s and 80’s, capturing the signature energy and flamboyance of the superstar’s golden years. In full character, he pays homage to pivotal moments in Elton’s storied career, from his famed Troubadour debut in 1970 to his spectacular Dodger Stadium concert in 1975. Rus’s celebrated portrayal of Elton has been featured on E!’s Clash of the Cover Bands and across Elton John’s official social media platforms. Beyond the stage, Rus embodies Elton in the metaverse, performing as the musical icon in Elton John Presents: Beyond the Yellow Brick Road on Roblox. The Rocket Man Show is recommended for ages 13 and older. Ticket prices range from $45 to $65. VIP seating is available for $80 and includes table seating and a complimentary wine, beer, or soft drink. To purchase your tickets, visit: www.MossCenter.org , stop by the Moss Center Box Office in person. Or call: (786) 573-5300. Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center The Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center, informally known as “The Moss Center,” is managed by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, with funding support from the Office of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. The Center is dedicated to presenting and supporting arts and culture and providing access to the arts to Miami-Dade County. More information about the Center and its programs can be found at: www.MossCenter.org . Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council develop cultural excellence, diversity, access and participation throughout Miami-Dade County by strategically creating and promoting equitable opportunities for artists and cultural organizations, and our residents and visitors who are their audiences. The Department receives funding through the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners, The Children’s Trust, the National Endowment for the Arts, the State of Florida through the Florida Department of State, Florida Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the Peacock Foundation, Inc., The Jorge M. Pérez Family Foundation at The Miami Foundation, and The Taft Foundation. Other support and services are provided by TicketWeb for the Culture Shock Miami program, the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, the South Florida Cultural Consortium and the Tourist Development Council. For more information visit: www.miamidadearts.org . Previous Next

Just In Time For Hanukkah And Christmas Jewish Connection News Nov 28, 2024 Comes The Hysterically Funny Interfaith Comedy BAD SHABBOS With Hanukkah starting on Christmas Day this year, BAD SHABBOS is just the ticket for a fast-paced comedy about a Jewish family meeting their future non-Jewish in-laws over a Shabbat dinner. Directed by Daniel Robbins, and co-written with Zack Weiner, this "one-night-in-New-York" story delivers laugh-out-loud performances by an ensemble cast led by Kyra Sedgwick and Cliff "Method Man" Smith, along with David Paymer, Milana Vayntrub, Jon Bass, Meghan Leathers, Catherine Curtin, John Bedford Lloyd, and Ashley Zukerman. “When we tested the film, we shared it with many different audiences to make sure it works for everyone. The goal was to make a film like "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," which is specific to a certain culture, but universal in its humor and its heart. The reaction (from Jews and non-Jews) has been amazing from both.” In the film BAD SHABBOS, David and his fiancée Meg, who is converting to Judaism, have invited her devout Catholic parents to meet David's Jewish family for the first time at a Shabbat dinner. David’s mother Ellen and his dad, Richard, are preparing for the dinner. Meanwhile, David’s sister Abby and her boyfriend Benjamin are running late, and his younger brother Adam is an anxious ball of nerves. Just when everything starts to simmer, an accidental death gets in the way and the uproariously funny dark comedy is filled with twists, turns, and laughs you won’t see coming. From Menemsha Films, the theatrical premiere of BAD SHABBOS starts Friday, December 6th exclusively at the Movies of Delray, located at 7421 West Atlantic Avenue on the corner of Hagan Ranch Road in Delray Beach. Director, Daniel Robbins and Producer, Adam Mitchell will be on-hand for audience discussions at several weekend showtimes for three weeks, December 6th - December 8th, December 13th - December 15th and December 20th - December 22nd. Check showtimes and purchase tickets at: www.moviesofdelray.com BAD SHABOSS won the Audience Award at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival, the Boston Jewish Film Festival and the Audience Award and Jury Award at Cordillera International Film Festival in Reno, Nevada. The film has also played to sold out crowds at film festivals, including the Hamptons, Rutger University in New Jersey, and Pittsburg among others. In January 2025, the comedy will screen in West Palm at the Sun and Stars International Film Festival from January 23rd - February 2nd and at the Miami Jewish Film Festival on January 9th - January 23rd. After, BAD SHABBOS will roll out to additional theaters in Florida and elsewhere in the U.S. Courtesy of Menemsha Films Previous Next

ZOA Condemns Mamdani’s Ending Executive Orders Protecting Jews Jewish Connection News Jan 15, 2026 Israeli Minister Of Diaspora Affairs, Amichai Chikli: “Mamdani Is An Overt Antisemite And Terror Supporter” Zionist Organization of America (ZOA) National President Morton A. Klein released the following statement: The Zionist Organization of America (ZOA) condemns Communist, Jew-hating, radical Muslim, NYC Mayor Mamdani’s first acts in office, which endanger New York’s Jews and all Americans. Among other things, Mamdani immediately revoked New York City’s executive orders that protect New York’s Jewish citizens and synagogues, and appointed Israel-basher, lawyer-for-terrorists, and law enforcement opponent Ramzi Kassem as New York City’s Chief Counsel. Mamdani immediately and despicably acted to revoke former Mayor Adams’ executive orders recognizing the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism; prohibiting mayoral appointees and agency staff from boycotting and disinvesting from Israel; and ordering a reassessment of how New York protects houses of worship (which Mayor Adams had issued following threatening riots outside a New York synagogue). The IHRA definition is a widely-accepted essential tool for identifying and combating antisemitism, including certain forms of antisemitism that are thinly disguised as anti-Zionism. Under IHRA’s rational definition, Mamdani is an antisemite. Boycotts, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) are designed to economically destroy and delegitimize Israel, and are also being used to target and harm American Jews and their businesses, artists and academics, and to harm non-Jewish American businesses that may have some vague or alleged connection to Israel or Jewish entities. Mamdani is an avowed anti-Zionist and BDS supporter, so his hateful, dangerous anti-Jewish revocations are sadly not surprising. For anyone who believed Mamdani’s affordability propaganda, this should be a wake-up call that Mamdani will use every lever of his power as mayor to harm the Jewish State of Israel and New York’s Jewish community. As Israel’s Foreign Ministry aptly wrote about these dangerous revocations: “On his very first day as NYC Mayor, Mamdani shows his true face: He scraps the IHRA definition of antisemitism and lifts restrictions on boycotting Israel. This isn’t leadership. It’s antisemitic gasoline on an open fire.” Israeli Minister of Diaspora Affairs Amichai Chikli said Mamdani is an “overt antisemite and terror supporter.” Mamdani’s appointment of radical Muslim Ramzi Kassem—who is an Israel-hater, an opponent of law enforcement, and a lawyer for Al-Qaeda terrorists and pro-Islamic Hamas campus agitators, as Chief Counsel—is also extremely dangerous and alarming. The NYC Chief Counsel wields immense power and influence over city policy, legislation, ethics, and legal direction, and has oversight of city agencies. Kassem’s record makes him the wrong person for this role, and a danger to New Yorkers. In his 2017 article entitled “Rebellious Lawyering in the Security State,” Kassem describes his and his CUNY Law School organization CLEAR’s extensive work to prevent the FBI from questioning Muslims and obtaining Muslim informants. The article persistently derided law enforcement as the overly aggressive “real danger” and accused law enforcement of “demonizing” Muslims at a “new fever pitch.” Kassem consistently treated Islamic terror as an imaginary excuse for law enforcement’s efforts to uncover terror activities. For instance, Kassem’s article and organization calls for “opposition to state power that is deployed in the name of security and counterterrorism.” That opposition included Kassem’s and CLEAR’s massive efforts to convince the Muslim community not to speak with law enforcement without the interference of a CLEAR lawyer or at all. Kassem also transformed ordinary law enforcement actions into “coercion.” For instance, Kassem argued in his article that an FBI visit of agents “sometimes wearing jackets emblazoned with FBI in loud, yellow lettering, can be inherently coercive.” Kassem and his organization thus assisted terror organizations, including in Muslim Al-Qaeda’s strategy of radicalizing the American Muslim community – a strategy described by former Chairman of the House of Representatives, Homeland Committee Chairman Peter King, and confirmed by top Obama Administration members Denis McDonough and AG Eric Holder. Chairman King explained that in nine years, the Nassau and Suffolk County Police Departments did not receive even one tip about terror activities, despite two mosques knowing about an Al-Qaeda terrorist in the community. Instead, Muslim Imams in the mosques told community members to not cooperate, obstructed investigations, and threatened those who came forward. Someone with Kassem’s opposition to Muslim cooperation with law enforcement is an extraordinarily dangerous choice for NYC Chief Counsel. But Kassem’s opposition to law enforcement did not stop there. Kassem was also the lead defense lawyer for Al-Qaeda radical Muslim terrorist Ahmed al-Darbi, who was convicted by a U.S. military commission in connection with the 2002 attack on the French oil tanker Limburg; represented 15 prisoners held at Guantanamo, Bagram and other facilities holding terrorists; represents illegal aliens against ICE; and represented radical Muslim Mahmoud Khalil, an anti-Israel Algerian-Palestinian Arab who assisted the antisemitic harassment of Jewish students during pro-Hamas encampments at Columbia University. ZOA calls on New York Governor Hochul, New York’s legislators, and federal legislators and officials to do everything possible to counteract Mamdani’s dangerous administration, including finally enacting strong anti-BDS laws and protections for synagogues at the state and federal level. We urge all Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and other leaders to speak out against these un-American policies. Silence is complicity. Previous Next

Keller’s Korner - 2026 Cadillac Championship By Neil Keller May 20, 2026 Welcome To Keller’s Korner. It Was Another Spectacular Cadillac Championship At The Trump National Doral In Miami, Florida. The Tournament Ran From April 30 Through The Final Round On May 3, 2026, Marking A Celebrated Return To A Venue Rich With History. From 2007 through 2016, the Cadillac Championship was held annually at the Doral before departing the site—only to make its long‑awaited comeback this year. The Trump Organization hosted the event, and with President Donald Trump, his family, and guests in attendance, the grounds featured a significant Secret Service presence throughout the weekend. During the final round, I spoke with Eric Trump, son of President Trump, and asked for his thoughts on the tournament. Eric responded, “This has been incredible. It is exciting with the best players in the world playing.” If this were the Olympics, it would have been an American sweep of the medals. Cameron Young, Scottie Scheffler, and Ben Griffin led the way, with many fans expecting Scheffler—the world’s #1 golfer—to take home the title. But Cameron Young ended all suspense early, winning wire‑to‑wire with a commanding six‑shot advantage. On Sunday, President Trump was on site, and the golfers were well aware of his presence, underscored by the heightened security around the course. After securing his victory, Cameron Young spoke about the experience. “He was just very complimentary,” Cameron told the media. “I’ve been fortunate to meet him before, and that’s especially with us golfers—it’s something he loves, and I think he appreciates how good everybody is on the PGA Tour. So, really just hugely complementary, and I, of course, thanked him for hosting us and that was about it.” He added, “It’s very unique. He’s a very, very interesting man. He’s very powerful, and it’s an honor to get to play in front of him. Hugely grateful to him and his family and his organization that has these beautiful properties and allows us to come and play great golf tournaments on them. This is a special place and a great championship golf course. I’m thankful to have it back in the schedule.” Spotlight on the Jewish Golfers As always, I make it a priority to highlight the Jewish athletes competing in sporting events. This year’s Cadillac Championship featured four Jewish golfers: Daniel Berger, Max Greyserman, Max Homa, and David Lipsky. Daniel Berger Daniel Berger, 33, grew up in Key Biscayne, Florida. At just 13 years old, he made a hole‑in‑one—an early sign of the talent that would carry him to four PGA Tour victories. Interestingly, Daniel never played for his high school (Dwyer High School) golf team in Palm Beach Gardens. I had the honor of speaking with his father, Jay Berger, who was watching his son at the golf tournament. Jay was a former world‑class tennis player who reached a career‑high ranking of #7 in 1990. I asked Jay who first introduced Daniel to golf. “That was me,” Jay said. “We expressed our desire for him to go for it as a career. He started playing golf at the age of 11 in Key Biscayne.” Jay added proudly, “He is a great kid.” Daniel finished the tournament at 6 under, tying for 23rd place. Max Greyserman Max Greyserman, 30, grew up in New Jersey and now resides in Palm Beach Gardens. He has one professional win so far and interviewing him was a pleasure—especially when I noticed the belt he was wearing, decorated with the Israeli flag. “I got this belt from Athletes for Israel,” Max told me. I immediately told him how proud I was to see it. When I asked how he felt about his Saturday round, Max said, “I did not play great. I shot even. This is a tough course.” I asked who first got him into golf. “My parents did,” he said. “I was only 3 or 4 years old.” I then asked if he had a Bar Mitzvah. Max smiled and said, “Yes, I did.” His favorite golf course? He didn’t hesitate: “Augusta National,” home of The Masters. Max finished the tournament at 4 under, tying for 38th place. Max Homa The second Jewish Max in the field, Max Homa, grew up in California and now lives in Arizona. In my view, the 35 year old is currently the best Jewish golfer in the world, with six PGA Tour victories to his name. Max has a Jewish mother, attended Hebrew School, and had a Bar Mitzvah. In a 2023 Masters survey about the Champions Dinner menu, Max famously said, “I’m half‑Jewish, so maybe I’d throw in my mom’s matzo ball soup.” The course played tough all week, with temperatures soaring into the 90s on one of the days. Max finished at 4 under, tying for 38th place alongside Greyserman and nine others. David Lipsky David Lipsky, 37, grew up in Southern California and has a unique background—his father is Jewish and his mother is Korean. David told me his parents introduced him to golf when he was ten years old. He finished the tournament at 4 over, placing 71st. Overall, this was a great tournament offering fun times for people of all ages. Neil Keller is a Jewish historian. Visit www.NeilKeller.com to learn who is Jewish. Neil Keller and Eric Trump Daniel Berger with his caddie Neil Keller with Max Greyserman Max’s belt with the Israeli flag Max Homa David Lipsky Previous Next

When Everything Becomes A National Security Threat By John & Nisha Whitehead Oct 1, 2026 “National Security” Has Become The Government’s All-Purpose Permission Slip To Behave Badly. They have become the magic words that can make constitutional restraints disappear—especially when the courts defer to claims of national security. Call something a matter of national security and the normal rules start disappearing: Courts defer. Congress retreats. Secrecy expands. Executive power grows. That game is hardly new. Nixon played it. Bush played it. Obama played it. Biden played it. Trump may not have invented the national-security dodge, but he has taken it to increasingly absurd extremes. Under Trump 2.0, almost everything gets branded a matter of national security in order for the president to sidestep as many parts of the Constitution as he finds inconvenient. At one point, the government even invoked national security to justify proposed tariffs on trumpets, trombones and tubas because the instruments depend on foreign copper alloys. This would almost be laughable if the consequences were not so serious. Trump wants greater control over the U.S economy? Declare a national emergency and seize the power to levy tariffs in the name of national security. Trump is disgruntled over relations with Canada? Declare a national security threat and claim executive authority to levy tariffs without going through Congress. Trump wants to build a lavish ballroom? Stick a bunker below it and a droneport on top, and call it national security. Trump wants to erect a massive ceremonial arch? Turn it into a military installation, complete with drones, snipers and ammunition, and chalk it up to national security. Trump doesn’t like unfavorable press coverage? Ban reporters from the White House and characterize the press as a national-security threat. National security has become Donald Trump’s fail-safe strategy for defying the Constitution. As Sophie Hurwitz writes for Mother Jones, “Trump is using agencies and emergency powers that sprung up in the aftermath of the 2001 attacks—and have never been abolished or repealed—to threaten domestic dissidents and anyone else he views as an enemy, claiming that those who oppose his policies constitute threats to America.” For decades, Congress has helped build this monster, repeatedly surrendering extraordinary powers to the Executive Branch whenever presidents invoke war, terrorism, emergency or national security. Which brings us to the far greater danger: a government that can declare anything a national-security concern can eventually declare anyone a national-security threat. Because the question is no longer merely what constitutes a threat. It is who gets to decide who is one. Who decides who is an enemy? Who decides who is dangerous? Who decides when the normal rules no longer apply? The government does not have to call you a criminal if it can call you a threat. And once you are classified as a threat, the government does not necessarily have to wait for you to commit a crime before it begins treating you like one. That is the danger when “national security” becomes the exception that allows the government to bypass the rule of law. The fact that the government does not have to build that machinery from scratch—it already has it—makes our current state of affairs that much worse. Long before “national security” became the justification for presidential ballrooms, triumphal arches and retaliation against unfriendly journalists, the government had already spent decades constructing a machinery for identifying, monitoring and neutralizing people it deemed potential threats. Connect the dots. Start with the Patriot Act and the surveillance powers unleashed after 9/11. Add the government’s ever-expanding definitions of “extremism” and “domestic terrorism.” Add the NDAA and the normalization of military detention authority in the name of national security. Add the NSA, fusion centers, and government watchlists. Then layer on facial recognition, artificial intelligence, biometric surveillance, automated license plate readers and predictive-policing technologies capable of identifying and tracking people at a scale unimaginable a generation ago. What emerges is not merely a government capable of investigating crimes after they happen. It is a government increasingly capable of identifying people as potential threats before they have committed one. That is the essence of precrime. It substitutes prediction for proof, suspicion for guilt and risk assessment for due process. And we have already seen where that mindset leads. In the years after 9/11, the government loosened investigative safeguards so that national-security investigations did not always have to begin with evidence that a crime had actually been committed. The focus increasingly shifted from investigating wrongdoing to identifying people and communities thought to present a potential risk. That is how a free society becomes a suspect society. And once government is permitted to investigate people not because of what they have done but because of who they are, what they believe, whom they associate with or what officials fear they might someday do, the distinction between protecting national security and policing dissent becomes dangerously thin. Government agencies already possess the technology and legal authorities to identify, label, track and target individuals viewed as potential threats. With every passing day, the technology becomes more powerful, the surveillance more pervasive, and the language of national security even more elastic. That should concern us far more than any single ballroom, tariff, monument or press dispute. Because once the government has both the power to define the threat and the machinery to act against it, the most important question is no longer what constitutes a threat. It is who gets to decide. This is where Americans make a dangerous mistake when they treat abuses of presidential power as partisan questions. If you approve of the president, you may not care how broadly he defines national security. If you trust his judgment, you may not object when he stretches emergency powers, sidesteps Congress, attacks the press or argues that the courts should defer to him. But presidential power does not disappear when your preferred president leaves office. It passes intact to the next one. Trump will not be president forever. The powers he is expanding will outlast him. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, that is the danger. A government that can declare anything a national-security concern can eventually declare anyone a national-security threat. And once “national security” becomes the magic phrase that makes constitutional restraints disappear, all of us are potential threats. 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 Next

New Year, New Goals For People And Pets - 3 Ways Dogs And Dog Owners Can Accomplish Resolutions Together Thu Dec 19 2024 17:30:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Hub At Temple Beth Am - It’s A Place Where Children Learn, Teens Connect, Adults Engage, And Families Grow Together Jewish Connection News Oct 23, 2025 Step Onto The Vibrant Campus Of Temple Beth Am, And You’ll Immediately Sense Something New, Something Extraordinary. At The Heart Of It All Is The Hub – A Dynamic, State-Of-The-Art Addition That Redefines What It Means To Build Jewish Community In The 21st Century. Designed With Intention, Innovation, And Inclusivity, The Hub Is More Than A Space – It’s An Experience. From cultural events and social gatherings to recreation and learning, The Hub brings together the essence of Temple Beth Am’s mission: to connect, inspire, and support Jewish life at every stage and age. Walk through The Hub, and you’ll find a seamless blend of functionality and warmth. Inside the Cultural & Activity Center, there’s truly something for everyone. One of the most exciting aspects of The Hub is the Outdoor Cultural Life Center, home to Temple Beth Am’s own Ben Yehuda Street and Zion Square. This space is purpose-built for festivals, lifecycle events, and cultural programming under the South Florida sky. It’s a place where Jewish culture lives and breathes through music, art, celebration, and community interaction. The Performing Arts Center and Chapel is a true gem of The Hub. With flexible seating for up to 550 attendees, this space is uniquely designed to support both the spiritual and cultural life of the congregation. It easily converts into a more intimate chapel setting for 300, allowing for a wide range of uses—from concerts and plays to prayer services and life cycle events. What makes The Hub truly special is not just its facilities, but the spirit it fosters. It’s a place where children learn, teens connect, adults engage, and families grow together. Whether you’re attending a lecture in the reading room, cheering your child on during a basketball game, catching up with a friend over coffee, or celebrating a lifecycle milestone under the stars—it all happens at The Hub. Located at The Janet z”l and Richard Yulman Campus, The Hub is the new center of gravity for Temple Beth Am. It reflects the synagogue’s deep commitment to providing spaces that serve the present while investing in the future of Jewish communal life. Come experience The Hub for yourself. There’s something here for everyone—and everything here is for you. Check out the What's Happening at The Hub: Artist In Residence - Chava Mirel Chava Mirel is a multi-award winning Jewish musician and composer whose voice was recently featured on a Grammy award winning album. Celebrated for her rich, luxurious vocals, lush harmonies, and rhythmic phrasing, Chava is also known for her loving and compassionate presence. Serving as an artist-in-residence and educator at congregations and conferences from coast to coast, she imbues her music and teachings with the universal themes of hope, caring, connection and inclusion. In addition to her prolific portfolio of recordings, Chava performs and records with two other Jewish music powerhouses, Elana Arian and Deborah Sacks Mintz, in their band New Moon Rising. In addition to performing regularly with that band, Chava continues to support dozens of other fellow Jewish artists in recording and performing projects. She serves as Music Director of her home congregation in Seattle, Washington. Kabbalat Shabbat - Friday, November 7th, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. Chava joins our clergy team for a meaningful, interactive Shabbat service. Shabbat Morning Minyan - Saturday, November 8th, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. Don’t miss this special Shabbat morning with Chava. A Shortage of Grandparents with Susan Meier Moss Katz Presented In Partnership With Books & Books Commemorate Kristallnacht at The Hub while hearing from one of Temple Beth Am’s very own, Susan Moss Katz, about her new book, A Shortage of Grandparents. A Shortage of Grandparents is an inspiring story of loss, discovery, and the importance of remembering the past so it may never be forgotten. Perfect for readers of Holocaust memoirs, family histories, and those seeking to understand the lasting effects of history on personal lives. A Shortage of Grandparents is the realization of her dream to unlock the secrets that led to the tragic deaths of her grandparents, Sophie and Berthold Meier, at the hands of the Nazis, and to the tragic early death of her father, Arthur Meier. Her late father’s pictures, letters, postcards, and artifacts were always there—a hidden, untranslated part of her life, serving as a painful foreshadowing of the story of the Meier family and the fates that befell them. A slow, winding trail of events over twenty-five years, beginning with a visit from a French grandmother to her office at Beth David led Susan to Serge Klarsfeld and eventually to Camp de Gurs in 2000. A river cruise in 2017 led to the Stolpersteine in Regensburg which pointed her to Martin Ruch, and, with his help, turned this little old Jewish Bubbie into a detective. The trail led, finally, after seven years of research and writing, into the graphic memoir you will hold in your hands the story of the Meier family of Gengenbach and the woman who finally got the luck and courage to play detective. About Susan Meier Moss Katz: Susan Meier Moss Katz grew up in what she calls the “Reading Railroad” area of Pennsylvania. In her late 20’s, with her husband and son, she moved to Miami, Florida, where she has lived for over 50 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education Degree from Westchester State University and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership Degree from Barry University. She taught elementary education in public schools for six years and then, beginning in 1972 at Temple Beth Am Day School where she also served as the Curriculum Coordinator and the Director of the Writing Program. Beginning in 1994, she became the founding Head of the Gordon Day School at Beth David Congregation. In 2001 she became the Director of Academics at St. Thomas Episcopal Parish School where she worked for 12 years until her retirement in 2013. Children’s writing became her passion in the 1980’s and she founded writing programs in four schools in Miami. The author has a son, Adam from her marriage to her first husband, Lawrence Moss, and two step-daughters, Laura (Brian Weissbart) and Paige, from her marriage to her late second husband, Irwin Katz. She has two grandchildren, Sydney Katz and Tucker Weissbart. Tickets: $46 General Admission 1 Seat and 1 Paperback of A Shortage of Grandparents; $10 General Admission 1 Seat (no book) The Hub is located at: The Hub at The Janet z”l and Richard Yulman Campus at: 5950 North Kendall Drive, Pinecrest, Florida 33156. For more information and event tickets, visit: www.tbam.org - Or call: (305) 540-0700. (Credit: https://www.tbam.org/the-hub/ ) Previous Next

Tri-Rail's "Ride & Play" Returns: Ride The Train And Explore The Best Of South Florida With Weekend Fares Just $5 South Florida Sun Times May 1, 2025 Tri-Rail Is Excited To Announce The Return Of Its "Ride & Play" Event To Explore The Best That South Florida Has To Offer On Saturday, May 3rd, 2025. South Florida Residents And Visitors Are Invited To Ride Tri-Rail And Experience A Day Of Fun While Exploring The Region’s Top Destinations With Special Discounts From Pérez Art Museum Miami, City Of Miami Black Police Precinct And Courthouse Museum, Opa-Locka Heritage Journey, Museum Of Discovery And Science, History Fort Lauderdale, Cox Science Center And Aquarium And Palm Beach Zoo And Conservation Society. With Its $5 All-Day Weekend Fare, Tri-Rail Provides An Affordable And Convenient Way To Discover South Florida. “Tri-Rail’s ‘Ride & Play’ offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the train as well as top area attractions across South Florida,” said SFRTA Chair, Palm Beach County Commissioner Marci Woodward. “This event showcases how easy and enjoyable it is to explore South Florida’s favorite destinations and hidden gems by train.” During this one-day-only event, train riders can enjoy exclusive rewards at participating attractions by showing a valid Tri-Rail ticket or EASY Card: • Pérez Art Museum Miami – Free admission • City of Miami Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum – Free admission • Opa-locka Heritage Journey – Free tote bag to the first 50 riders at the Opa-locka station, 15% off at the nearby JuiceDefined • Museum of Discovery and Science - $2 off general admission • History Fort Lauderdale – Buy one, get one free admission. • Cox Science Center and Aquarium – Buy one general daily admission and get one free. (Up to four people per transaction.) • Palm Beach Zoo and Conservation Society – 20% discount on general admission tickets. Discounts not available online. To add to the excitement, costumed characters, including Tri-Rail’s beloved mascot Conductor George Green, will make special appearances at four featured stations from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 2:00 p.m.: Miami Central in Downtown Miami, Opa-locka, Fort Lauderdale off Broward Boulevard and West Palm Beach. Tri-Rail riders can hop on from any of the 19 conveniently located stations across South Florida and weekend fares remain just $5 for an all-day pass, and children under 5 ride free. Tri-Rail, South Florida’s premier commuter rail system, serves Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties with 19 conveniently located train stations, bus and Metrorail connections and service every day of the year. To learn more about Tri-Rail’s “Ride & Play” or to find train schedules, visit: www.tri-rail.com - Or call: 1 (800) TRI-RAIL. Call: 1 (800) 874-7245. Previous Next

10 Practical Strategies To Navigate Holiday Parties Without Alcohol South Florida Sun Times Dec 17, 2025 The Holiday Season Is Packed With Festive Gatherings, Family Traditions, And Social Events That Often Revolve Around Drinking. For People In Recovery (Or Anyone Choosing To Skip Alcohol), This Time Of Year Can Bring Unique Challenges. Invitations Pile Up, Expectations Rise, And The Pressure To “Just Have One” Can Feel Relentless. But Staying Sober Doesn’t Mean Missing Out On The Joy, Connection, And Celebration That Makes The Season Special! As Community Outreach Coordinator at Virginia Recovery Centers, an alcohol and drug rehab in Virginia, I’ve seen firsthand just how attainable it is to enjoy holiday gatherings confidently and alcohol-free. All it takes is careful planning, self-awareness, and the right support. That said, below are practical, empowering strategies to help you navigate holiday events without compromising your sobriety. Know Your Triggers Before You Go Holiday gatherings can be emotionally charged, especially when family dynamics, long-standing traditions, or stressful environments are involved. Before accepting an invite, take a moment to reflect on which situations might make you feel vulnerable. Common triggers during the holidays can include being around heavy drinkers, feeling socially anxious, experiencing loneliness or nostalgia, navigating family conflict, and managing unstructured time at long events. Other common triggers are encountering certain people, places, or rituals tied to past drinking. Awareness of these triggers doesn’t eliminate challenges, but it can help you prepare for them. If a certain event has historically been difficult, consider skipping it this year or attending for a shorter amount of time. Protecting your sobriety is more important than maintaining appearances. Have a Plan and a Backup Plan Going into a holiday party with a strategy gives you control over the experience. Think ahead about how you’ll handle conversations, cravings, or unexpected pressure. For example, decide your arrival and departure time. Also, give yourself an “escape plan” so you’re not stuck if things get uncomfortable. It would also be wise to bring your own beverage. Whether it’s flavored sparkling water or a festive mocktail, having something in your hand often prevents people from offering drinks. Telling a trusted friend you’re attending sober can also be helpful, as you may feel more grounded and accountable if you know someone is aware of your intention. I also recommend planning a grounding activity before the event. A walk, meditation, journaling, or a call with a supportive friend can set a calm mindset. And remember that while having a plan is helpful, having a backup plan is essential. If you feel overwhelmed, you can always leave early, shift conversations, step outside for fresh air, or call someone from your support system. Practice Confident “No” Scripts One of the hardest parts of staying sober at holiday parties is dealing with other people’s reactions. Most people aren’t trying to pressure you, as they’re simply following social habits, but it can still feel awkward. So have a few rehearsed responses to make the moment feel effortless. Try these: “I’m not drinking tonight, but thank you!” or “I’m driving later, so I’m sticking to soda.” Another great reply can be: “I’m taking a break from alcohol for my health.” You don’t owe anyone explanations about your sobriety. Short, simple, and confident responses usually shut down pressure quickly. Bring a Support Person (or a Virtual One) If you can bring a partner, friend, or family member who understands your commitment to staying sober, the whole night can become easier. They can redirect conversations, help you exit uncomfortable situations, and offer a sense of safety. If it isn’t possible to go with someone, arrange a text check-in system with your sponsor, therapist, or a sober friend. You can also use recovery apps or online communities that offer “SOS” chats. If needed, step away for a quick breathing break and message someone who can ground you. Having support (even from afar) can disrupt cravings and remind you why your sobriety matters. Choose Events That Support Your Sobriety You don’t have to attend every holiday gathering. If a party is centered around drinking, rowdy traditions, or people who don’t respect your boundaries, it may not be the best environment. So consider alternatives like sober holiday potlucks, morning or afternoon events instead of evening parties, and family-friendly celebrations. Other great events include smaller gatherings with close friends, community or faith-based activities, and volunteering opportunities. There’s strength in choosing events that align with your values and your wellbeing. Not every invitation requires a yes, especially during the holidays. Enjoy Festive Alcohol-Free Options One of the happiest trends in recent years is the explosion of nonalcoholic beverages and mocktails. People are increasingly choosing moderation, and alcohol-free drinks are more accepted than ever. Some ideas to bring or request include: sparkling cranberry or pomegranate spritzers, nonalcoholic champagne or rose, hot cider with cinnamon, and zero-proof craft beers. Holiday-themed mocktails like a peppermint mojito, “nog” latte, and rosemary citrus spritz can also help you feel included without sacrificing your goals. Focus On What You Gain, Not What You Skip Instead of focusing on what you might be missing, shift your attention to what staying sober gives you. These include clear conversations and genuine connections, better sleep, more energy the next day, no hangovers, increased confidence, peace of mind, pride in your progress, and the ability to be fully present with loved ones. Sobriety isn’t about restriction; it’s about freedom and allowing yourself to enjoy the holiday season with clarity and authenticity in a way alcohol simply cannot. Build New Holiday Traditions If drinking used to be a big part of your holiday celebrations, this is your chance to reinvent your traditions by focusing on what truly brings joy, meaning, and peace into your life. New sober-friendly traditions might include hosting a cookie-decorating night, starting a holiday movie marathon, crafting ornaments or decorating the tree. Or, you can take a winter hike or morning walk, attend a holiday concert or light show, prioritize self-care rituals on busy weekends, or create nightly gratitude lists throughout December. Traditions grounded in connection and creativity last far longer (and feel far more fulfilling) than any cocktail. Reward Yourself After the Event After the party, take time to acknowledge your accomplishment! Staying sober in a social setting (especially during the holidays) is something to be proud of. Reward yourself by treating yourself to a special dessert, watching a favorite show, taking a warm bath, writing in a gratitude journal, buying a small gift, or simply reflecting on how good it feels to stay committed. Celebrating these wins reinforces your progress and helps strengthen your sobriety. Remember Your Why At the heart of sobriety is a deeply personal reason, whether it’s health, family, stability, self-respect, or simply wanting a better life. When cravings or pressure arise, reconnect with that reason by asking yourself: How will I feel tomorrow if I stay sober? How will I feel if I don’t? Who am I protecting and honoring with this choice? What future am I building? Remember, your why is stronger than any holiday drink. Staying Sober Is a Gift You Give Yourself! Navigating holiday parties without alcohol isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely possible. And it’s often more rewarding than you expect! With thoughtful planning, healthy boundaries, supportive people, and a commitment to honoring your wellbeing, you can enjoy celebrations fully and confidently. This year, give yourself the gift of clarity, peace, and presence. Sobriety doesn’t take away from the magic of the season… It enhances it! Lauren Edwards is the Community Outreach Coordinator at Virginia Recovery Centers, a leading alcohol and drug rehab in Virginia. In her role, Lauren connects individuals and families with the center’s comprehensive addiction treatment programs, including outpatient care, medication-assisted treatment, and holistic therapies such as art and music therapy. She is dedicated to raising awareness about substance use disorders and providing compassionate support to those seeking lasting recovery, helping them navigate treatment options and access the resources they need to thrive. Visit: https://virginiarecoverycenters.com/ Previous Next

Exploration of Human Connection, January 15th, Free at Nova University Library By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 LoveJewish.org in association with NSU Florida’s Alvin Sherman Library and the University of Miami Sue and Leonard Miller Center will present a FREE reading of award-winning playwright Debbie Slevin’s critically acclaimed play Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage. The reading will take place at 1:00 pm on January 15th in the Sherman Library. This ‘dramedy’, directed by Avi Hoffman, is a witty and compelling exploration of human connection amid uproarious chaos. It follows a diverse cast of travelers, each wrestling with personal challenges, as they are stranded at Gate B23 at Palm Beach International Airport whilst enduring an increasingly prolonged flight delay. The play promises to deliver a unique theatrical experience that blends humor, tension, and profound human insights. The reading of Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage will feature some of South Florida’s most prominent actors, including Brandon Campbell, Rayner Gabriel, Harriet Oser, Emma Garcia Seeger, Devra Seidel, Barbara Sloan, and Troy Stanley. Dave Corey will take on the role of the progressively disturbed Gate Attendant. Debbie Slevin, an award-winning essayist and author is a writer, producer/director, and teacher. She conceived and co-produced The Apron Strings Project in Riverhead, NY, produced and directed The Last Five Years at Guild Hall in East Hampton, and the first NYC revival of Songs for a New World. Her play Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage was a best-selling selection of NYC International Fringe Festival and Manhattan Repertory Theater's Winterfest. Now a well-read blogger for Huffpo50, Debbie’s writing has also appeared in Essence Magazine, Woman’s World, and Reform Judaism. She was also a staff writer for the Jewish Standard. Tickets for Gate B23: Carry-On Baggage are FREE. Reservations can be made online at: www.YILoveJewish.org/Events - or at The Alvin Sherman Library at Nova Southeastern University, located at 3100 Ray Ferrero Jr. Boulevard, Davie, Florida 33314. Previous Next

Exquisite Taste Is Always On The Menu - Casa D'Angelo With Iconic Chef Angelo Elia Celebrates A Milestone South Florida Sun Times Jun 19, 2025 For Nearly Three Decades, Chef Angelo Elia Has Been More Than A Chef—He’s Been The Face Of Fine Italian Dining In Fort Lauderdale And A Pillar Of South Florida’s Culinary Identity. This Year, Casa D’Angelo Fort Lauderdale Celebrates Its 27th Anniversary, A Milestone That Underscores Chef Elia’s Status As One Of The Most Iconic Figures In The Industry. Long Before “Michelin Star” Became A Buzzword In The Region, Elia Had Already Set The Standard—Building A Legacy Rooted In Authenticity, Precision, And A Deep Reverence For Italian Tradition. Born in Salerno, Italy, Elia’s culinary journey began in his mother’s kitchen, shaped by the simplicity of garden-grown herbs, fresh pasta, and butcher-quality meats sourced by his father. At just 14 years old, he arrived in New York City, training in some of its most renowned kitchens, including The Four Seasons and La Cisterna. But it was in South Florida where Elia found his canvas—and where Casa D’Angelo first opened its doors in 1998. Today, with celebrated locations in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Aventura, Casa D’Angelo is a hallmark of elegance and fine dining. The restaurant is known not only for its handcrafted pastas, fresh seafood, and made-from-scratch sauces, but also for its extraordinary wine collections. Each location features one of South Florida’s most impressive wine cellars—housing up to 10,000 bottles—and the Fort Lauderdale location has been recognized by Wine Spectator with its “Best of Award of Excellence” for over two decades. This Summer at Casa D’Angelo: Aventura Location: Enjoy an exclusive three-course Summer Menu dinner for $60, available Sunday through Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m,, now through October 9th. The Aventura location also offers a three-course Weekday Business Lunch for $32, served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m, to 4:00 p.m.—perfect for a refined midday break. Plus, enjoy half off select wines on Mondays to start your week in style. Boca Raton Location: Elevate your evenings with a three-course Summer Menu dinner for $65, available Sunday through Thursday now through October 9th. Plus, make midweek special with half off select wines every Wednesday. More than just a dining destination, Casa D’Angelo restaurants are woven into the fabric of the community. From heartfelt family recipes—like those passed down from Elia’s mother—to lavish wine dinners hosted for wine connoisseurs and culinary aficionados alike, the restaurant is an enduring love letter to Italy. And it’s not just locals who’ve taken notice. Celebrity guests such as David and Victoria Beckham, Katy Perry, Orlando Bloom, Dan Marino, and Derek Jeter have all dined under the Casa D’Angelo banner, returning time and again for signature dishes and unparalleled hospitality. At the heart of the story is a powerful partnership: Chef Angelo and his wife Denise Elia, who met working in the restaurant industry and went on to build one of South Florida’s longest standing and most beloved culinary empires. Their journey—from young dreamers to hospitality icons—is a true testament to passion, resilience, and staying power in a rapidly evolving dining scene. Now entering its 27th year, Casa D’Angelo continues to embody the essence of Italian fine dining—combining time-honored techniques with refined execution. From unforgettable wine dinners to beloved family recipes passed down through generations, Chef Angelo Elia’s legacy is one of culinary excellence, authenticity, and enduring impact on South Florida’s dining scene. About Casa D’Angelo Restaurants: With three premier locations across South Florida—Aventura, Boca Raton, and Fort Lauderdale—Casa D’Angelo is a culinary institution renowned for its commitment to authentic Italian fine dining. Under the guidance of Chef Angelo Elia and his wife, Denise Elia, the restaurant has garnered widespread acclaim, offering dishes rooted with authentic Italian flavors and crafted with the finest ingredients. The award-winning wine list, consistently recognized by Wine Spectator, enhances the dining experience, making Casa D’Angelo a destination for food and wine connoisseurs alike. For more information, please visit: www.casa-dangelo.com . Previous Next