Stranahan House To Celebrate Fort Lauderdale’s Founding Families At Fourth Annual Fall Festival South Florida Sun Times Sep 17, 2026 More Than A Century After Fort Lauderdale Was Taking Shape Along The New River, The City’s History Will Once Again Come Alive At One Of Its Most Important Historic landmarks. The Historic Stranahan House Museum will host its Fourth Annual Founding Families Fall Festival on Friday, September 25th, 2026, bringing residents, families and visitors together for an evening of music, food, games and history on the banks of the New River. The festival will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Stranahan House, 335 Southeast 6th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301. A special ceremony honoring Fort Lauderdale’s founding families is scheduled for 6:15 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, while children will be admitted free. Organizers describe the annual festival as a celebration of the families who helped establish Fort Lauderdale and shape the community that would eventually become one of South Florida’s best-known cities. The event also serves an important purpose for the museum: All proceeds will support the Historic Stranahan House Museum’s year-round historic preservation and educational programs. For an evening, the oldest surviving house in Fort Lauderdale will serve not simply as a museum, but as a gathering place where the community can celebrate its past while supporting the preservation of that history for future generations. The festival will feature food trucks, beer and wine vendors, games, live music and activities designed for guests of all ages. Complimentary Water Taxi rides will also be provided, offering festivalgoers a uniquely Fort Lauderdale way to arrive at the event and experience the city from the water. With the New River as the backdrop, the setting is particularly fitting. Long before Fort Lauderdale became a city known for its beaches, waterways, tourism and downtown skyline, the New River was central to the development of the small settlement that would eventually become the city. Stranahan House stands as one of the most tangible reminders of that early history. Built in 1901, Stranahan House is widely recognized as the birthplace of Fort Lauderdale. The building was originally constructed as a trading post and later served as a post office, town hall and residence for Frank Stranahan and his wife, Ivy Cromartie Stranahan. Frank Stranahan is remembered as Fort Lauderdale’s first businessman and one of the community’s most respected pioneers. Ivy Cromartie Stranahan, meanwhile, became the area’s first schoolteacher and an influential advocate for civic, educational, social service and environmental causes. Their lives were closely intertwined with the development of the early community, and their home became a gathering place and important institution during Fort Lauderdale’s formative years. That history is central to the museum’s mission today. The Historic Stranahan House Museum seeks to tell the story of the birth of the community through the lives of Frank and Ivy Stranahan and the homestead they created. The museum also works to preserve, interpret and promote the house, its historic site and the broader story of Fort Lauderdale’s founding family. The Founding Families Fall Festival provides a natural extension of that mission. Rather than presenting history solely through exhibits, artifacts and guided tours, the festival gives the community an opportunity to experience the historic property as a living part of Fort Lauderdale. The event is also an important fundraiser for the museum, helping support programs that operate throughout the year. Stranahan House opened as a museum in 1984. Since then, it has become one of Fort Lauderdale’s leading cultural attractions and an important destination for both tourists and local residents interested in learning more about the city’s origins. Each year, more than 3,000 fourth-grade schoolchildren visit the historic site as part of educational programming, while approximately 30,000 tourists and locals visit the House and museum. For those students, Stranahan House can provide a tangible connection to lessons about local history. Instead of learning about Fort Lauderdale’s early development only from textbooks, they can walk through the same historic structure where some of the community’s earliest civic and commercial activities took place. For tourists and longtime residents alike, the property offers a glimpse of a Fort Lauderdale that existed long before the modern skyline, high-rise buildings and busy downtown streets became familiar features of the city. That connection between the past and present is expected to be a central theme of this year’s festival. The Founding Families Fall Festival is particularly focused on honoring the people and families who played a role in establishing the community. Their contributions helped create the civic institutions, schools, businesses and traditions that would become the foundation of modern Fort Lauderdale. While the city has changed dramatically since the early 1900s, the stories of those early residents remain part of its identity. Frank Stranahan’s role in the community began with his trading post along the New River. His business became an important meeting point in a developing settlement, and his work placed him at the center of the community’s early commercial life. Ivy Stranahan’s influence extended into education and civic engagement. As the area’s first schoolteacher, she played an important role in the education of local children. Her later involvement in environmental, social service and civic causes further established her as a significant figure in the region’s history. Together, the Stranahans represent two important dimensions of Fort Lauderdale’s beginnings: the practical work of building a community and the civic commitment required to help that community grow. Their legacy is one reason the museum continues to place education and preservation at the center of its work. The festival’s fundraising component will help ensure that the historic property remains available to future generations. Preserving an early structure such as Stranahan House involves more than maintaining an old building. It also requires preserving the stories, traditions and historical context associated with the site. The museum’s programs allow visitors to understand not only what the House looks like, but why it matters. The September festival will give the public another opportunity to support that work while enjoying an evening of community entertainment. Sponsors are also playing an important role in the event. The Historic Stranahan House Museum has expressed its appreciation to its generous sponsors, including Amazon and Tripp Scott. Businesses, organizations and individuals interested in supporting the festival can also participate through sponsorship and underwriting opportunities. Sponsorship levels range from $500 to $5,000. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact Executive Director Jennifer Belt by email at: director@stranahanhouse.org. Or email: director@stranahanhouse.org. Or by telephone at: (954) 524-4736. For festival attendees, however, the evening will be about more than fundraising. The combination of food trucks, live music, games and vendors is intended to make the event accessible to the entire community. Families can attend together, children can participate in activities and adults can enjoy food and beverages while taking in the atmosphere of the historic property and waterfront. The complimentary Water Taxi rides add another distinctly local element to the celebration. Fort Lauderdale’s waterways have always been central to its identity, and the Water Taxi offers visitors an opportunity to experience the city from the same network of waterways that played such an important role in its early development. The New River, in particular, has been a defining feature of Fort Lauderdale’s history. Its waters provided transportation and helped connect the community during the city’s earliest years. Today, the river remains one of the most recognizable elements of the downtown landscape. Having the festival on the riverfront therefore creates a physical connection between the event and the history being celebrated. The 6:15 p.m. ceremony will provide the evening’s most formal moment, when founding families are honored for their contributions to the development of Fort Lauderdale. The ceremony is expected to highlight the individuals and families whose efforts helped transform the area from a small settlement into the thriving community it is today. For a city that has experienced extraordinary growth, such recognition serves as a reminder that Fort Lauderdale’s history was built by generations of residents whose contributions may otherwise be forgotten. The museum’s role is to make sure those stories remain part of the community’s collective memory. That responsibility has become increasingly significant as Fort Lauderdale continues to grow and change. New development has transformed the city’s neighborhoods and downtown, while an expanding population and tourism industry have brought new generations of residents and visitors to the area. Historic landmarks such as Stranahan House provide a link between that rapidly changing present and the community’s earliest days. The museum’s work ensures that the history of Fort Lauderdale is not simply something that belongs in the past. It remains a resource for understanding how the city developed and why the community looks the way it does today. The Founding Families Fall Festival reflects that philosophy by bringing history into a community celebration. The event will be held at Stranahan House, located at 335 Southeast 6th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301. Complimentary parking will be available at the Riverside Hotel, located at 620 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301. Visitors should plan to arrive between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., with the special founding families ceremony taking place at 6:15 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, and children can attend free of charge. Additional information and tickets are available through the Historic Stranahan House Museum’s website at: https://stranahanhouse.org/ffff/ . The museum itself is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., giving visitors who want to learn more about the site an opportunity to explore it outside of the festival. The September event is also an invitation to residents who may have lived in Fort Lauderdale for years but have never visited the historic property. It can be easy for people who live near a historic landmark to take it for granted. Stranahan House, however, is not simply an old building sitting among modern Fort Lauderdale. It is a surviving piece of the city’s earliest history and a place where the story of the community can be experienced firsthand. The House has witnessed generations of change. When it was built in 1901, Fort Lauderdale was a very different place. The city that residents know today—with its major tourism industry, extensive canal system, downtown development and international reputation—was still decades away. The Stranahan family was part of the small community that laid the groundwork for that future. Today, the House stands as a reminder of their work and of the many other families whose contributions helped shape the city. That is the significance behind the Founding Families Fall Festival. It is a celebration, but it is also an act of preservation. By bringing people together at the historic site, the museum hopes to strengthen the community’s connection to its past and generate support for the programs that keep that history accessible. The festival also illustrates how historic preservation can be a community experience rather than simply an academic pursuit. A child playing a game on the grounds, a family arriving by Water Taxi, a visitor listening to live music beside the New River or a longtime resident attending the founding families ceremony may all experience the historic site differently. Yet each is participating in the continued life of a place that has been part of Fort Lauderdale for more than 120 years. For the museum, those experiences are part of the preservation effort. The goal is not only to maintain the physical structure, but to ensure that future generations understand why it matters. The Fourth Annual Founding Families Fall Festival will provide another opportunity to do exactly that. As the sun begins to set over the New River on Friday, September 25th, 2026 Fort Lauderdale residents and visitors will gather at the city’s oldest house for an evening that combines the past with the present. There will be food, music, games and festivities. There will be a ceremony honoring the people who helped build the community. And there will be the historic Stranahan House itself—a reminder of the people, businesses, schools and civic institutions that formed the foundation of modern Fort Lauderdale. For a community whose identity is so closely tied to its waterways and its history, the setting could hardly be more appropriate. The Founding Families Fall Festival is ultimately an invitation to remember where Fort Lauderdale began while helping ensure that its earliest stories remain available to those who will call the city home in the years ahead. When: Friday, September 25th, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Ceremony: 6:15 p.m. Where: Stranahan House 335 Southeast 6th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 Cost: Adults: $5 Children: Free How: For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit: https://stranahanhouse.org/ffff/ . Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available and range from $500 to $5,00. For more information, please contact Executive Director Jennifer Belt by email at: director@stranahanhouse.org . Or call: (954) 524-4736. Complimentary parking is available at the Riverside Hotel, located at 620 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301. The Historic Stranahan House Museum is located at 335 Southeast 6th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 and is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. More information about the museum, its history, programs and upcoming events is available at: https://stranahanhouse.org . The Stranahan House is recognized as the birthplace of Fort Lauderdale. Photo by Kahlil O Connor 1915 (courtesy of FLHS) 1930s (courtesy of FLHS) 1972 1984 Previous Next

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An Everyday Champion Inspiring The Community Through Her Kosher Café In Hollywood, Florida Jewish Connection News Sep 18, 2025 At Just 18 Years Old, Recent High School Graduate Sofia Hagen Has Already Accomplished What Many Only Dream Of: Opening Her Own Kosher Café In The Heart Of The Hollywood Area. Her Story Is One Of Grit, Determination, And Inspiration Serving As A Refreshing And Shining Example Of Youthful Ambition Paired With The Wisdom And Resilience Of A Seasoned Entrepreneur. Sofia’s journey has not been without challenges. Having faced and overcome learning difficulties throughout her schooling, her determination to succeed has been relentless. Rather than allowing obstacles to define her, Sofia transformed them into stepping stones toward her dreams. Today, she proudly operates Bliss Café, where fresh, delicious, and ORB Kosher-certified homemade pastries are thoughtfully prepared and served daily (except on Shabbat). Her artisanal touch is carefully crafted into the amazing banana bread, mouthwatering blueberry muffins, flaky cheese Danish, sinful vanilla scones and so much more with variations on a regular basis. These blissful bites are paired with delectable drinks including lattes, coffee and matcha, all served hot or on ice with a variety of flavors, milks and foams. Early every morning, Sofia is the first to arrive at her café, setting the tone for the day ahead. She takes pride in ensuring the kitchen is spotless, the menu is ready, and the customer experience is second to none. Her commitment is evident not only in the quality of the food but also in her warm and friendly presence. Patrons describe her as “all smiles, mostly laughs, and always welcoming” as a genuine spirit that leaves an impression long after the last bite. “People are often surprised to learn I’m only 18,” Sofia shares with a smile. “But I don’t think age should stop anyone from chasing their dreams. Owning a business is about responsibility, consistency, and caring about people — and that’s something I’ve always wanted to do.” Her community agrees. Customers and neighbors alike are inspired by her tenacity and vision, noting her strong business sense and devotion to her kosher values. Sofia recognizes that her responsibility extends beyond serving pastries and drinks. It’s about building trust, community, and inspiration. Popular Kosher and Jewish oriented Social Media influencers have shared their stories through various platforms after experiencing Sofia’s amazing café. A Launch Pad for Greater Dreams Sofia views the café not as the final destination, but as a starting point. “This café is my launch pad,” she explains. “I want to create a space that brings people together, one delicious bite at a time. And this is just the beginning.” Her incredible story is a reminder that success is not measured by age or experience, but by perseverance, positivity, and the courage to take bold steps. At 18 years old, Sofia Hagen is not just running a café; she’s proving herself as an everyday champion whose impact will inspire for years to come. About Bliss Café: An ORB Kosher Establishment Located at 3523 Griffin Road, Dania Beach (Fort Lauderdale), Florida 33312, ORB Kosher-certified Bliss Café is a community-driven quaint dining spot founded by 18-year-old entrepreneur Sofia Hagen. The café specializes in fresh, baked daily Kosher-certified delicious pastries and delectable drinks served in a friendly, family style and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting Sofia’s dedication to excellence and community connection. Previous Next

ALINA Residences Boca Raton - Among First Seven Communities Nationwide Selected For The Forbes Travel Guide Hospitality Program South Florida Sun Times Jul 2, 2026 ALINA Residences Boca Raton, A 303-Residence Luxury Condominium Community In The Heart Of Downtown Boca Raton Developed By El-Ad National Properties, Has Been Selected As One Of The First Seven Luxury Residential Communities In The United States To Participate In A Hospitality-Focused Initiative Developed Through A Collaboration Between FirstService Residential And ATELIER CX, The Consulting Division Of Forbes Travel Guide. Known for its wellness-focused lifestyle, resort-inspired amenities and elevated resident experience, ALINA comprises three architecturally distinctive nine-story buildings overlooking The Boca Raton golf course and is among the city's most sought-after luxury residential addresses. The selection places ALINA among an exclusive group of luxury residential properties nationwide recognized for their commitment to delivering elevated resident experiences through personalized service, thoughtful community management and hospitality-driven standards. Located in the heart of downtown Boca Raton, ALINA offers a wellness-focused lifestyle complemented by resort-inspired amenities, curated resident experiences and a strong emphasis on service excellence. The program is designed to establish hospitality-driven service standards within luxury residential communities through customized service frameworks, staff training and operational assessments focused on consistency, personalization and service excellence. ALINA Residences joins an exclusive group of residential properties across the country selected for the inaugural rollout, including communities in New York City, Boston, Dallas, Los Angeles and South Florida. “As luxury residential living continues to evolve, homeowners increasingly expect more than exceptional residences and resort-inspired amenities,” said Candace Jorritsma, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for El-Ad National Properties. “Personalized service, attentive management and thoughtfully curated experiences have become important differentiators among the nation's premier residential communities.” “At ALINA, our focus has always been on executing the developer’s vision and delivering a thoughtful and well-rounded experience for our residents,” said German Cabieses, General Manager of ALINA Residences Boca Raton. “Participating in this program allows us to build on that foundation by aligning with world-class hospitality-driven standards that bring greater consistency and intention to how service is delivered every day.” “We're excited to collaborate with FirstService Residential as they further strengthen their approach to luxury residential experiences through hospitality-inspired service principles,” said Hermann Elger, Chief Executive Officer of Forbes Travel Guide. “This engagement reflects FirstService Residential's commitment to the convergence of hospitality and residential living, where thoughtful service design, consistency and luxury personalization are increasingly important to residents and communities alike.” Located in the heart of downtown Boca Raton, ALINA Residences was designed around a wellness-focused lifestyle that blends luxury, convenience and connection. Residents enjoy access to an extensive collection of amenities, including two rooftop pools, spa facilities with steam rooms and saunas, state-of-the-art fitness centers, yoga and wellness spaces, club rooms, a golf and sports simulator, outdoor gathering spaces and dedicated resident services. The comprehensive program includes customized service blueprints, training for both corporate and on-site teams, and ongoing assessments designed to further enhance the resident experience. The initiative reflects a growing trend across the luxury residential sector, where hospitality principles are increasingly shaping how communities operate and serve residents. Developed by El-Ad National Properties, ALINA Residences comprises three architecturally distinctive nine-story buildings totaling 303 residences in downtown Boca Raton. Positioned between The Boca Raton golf course and Southeast Mizner Boulevard, the community offers walkable access to the city's premier dining, shopping, cultural attractions and beaches. About ALINA Residences Boca Raton Developed by El-Ad National Properties, ALINA Residences Boca Raton is a world-class residential destination featuring resort-inspired amenities with a focus on wellness and accented by indoor and outdoor art installations. Designed by architects Garcia Stromberg, ALINA Residences phase one (ALINA 200) was completed in March 2021 as a nine-story, 121-residence building and is sold out. Now entering its final selling season, ALINA’s second and final phase, comprised of two new residential buildings, ALINA 210 and ALINA 220, is nearing sellout, with move-ins well underway. ALINA 210 received its final certificate of occupancy in 2024, with closings underway as of Jan. 10, 2025. ALINA 220 received its temporary certificate of occupancy on Jan. 9, 2025, with closings beginning immediately thereafter. With sales and marketing led by Douglas Elliman Development Marketing, residences in the three towers range from one to four bedrooms and span from 1,400 to over 5,400 square feet, with many featuring dens and private terraces that overlook the iconic The Boca Raton golf course along with select penthouses offering ocean views. Residences are priced from just over $6 million to over $9 Million. The full luxury property features a total of 303 units and residents can explore a myriad of shared spaces and amenities across the expansive campus, including over three acres of private outdoor amenity space, two private rooftop pools, outdoor dining and entertainment areas, lavish green spaces, outdoor yoga spaces, a dog park, top-of-the-line fitness centers, generously sized club rooms, studio with a professional-level golf and sports simulator, His and Hers Spas with dry saunas, steam rooms, treatment rooms, and indoor and outdoor relaxation rooms. As ALINA Residences nears completion, this marks the final opportunity to own within one of Boca Raton’s most desirable new luxury residential addresses. For more information, please visit: www.alinabocaraton.com . About El-Ad National Properties Boca Raton-based El-Ad National Properties is an Elad Group company, which is a highly regarded development team known for best-in-class projects in the most sought-after neighborhoods in New York and nationwide. Known and recognized worldwide for the history-making, restoration and conversion of the famed Plaza Hotel, Elad Group is continuously making strides in real estate and receiving public acclaim for many of its properties. Elad’s New York portfolio of iconic buildings includes One West End, the first and tallest condominium project to come to market in Christian de Portzamparc’s masterfully-designed Riverside Center, 22 Central Park South, an exquisite collection of full-floor luxury condominium residences overlooking Manhattan’s famed Central Park, 250 West Street, a 1906 warehouse turned luxury condominium in the heart of TriBeCa, and 108 Leonard, a 19th century McKim, Meade & White Italian Renaissance Revival landmark conversion in TriBeCa. Elad Group is committed to developing architecturally significant buildings and partnering with renowned architects and design professionals to create premier new developments. About Douglas Elliman Development Marketing (DEDM) Douglas Elliman Development Marketing, a division of Douglas Elliman Realty, offers unmatched expertise in sales, leasing, and marketing for new developments throughout New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida, Texas, Colorado and California. The company’s new development hybrid platform matches highly experienced new development experts with skilled brokerage professionals who provide unparalleled expertise and real time market intelligence to its clients. The firm is heralded for its achievements in record-breaking sales throughout each of its regions. Drawing upon decades of experience and market-specific knowledge, Douglas Elliman Development Marketing offers a multidisciplinary approach that includes comprehensive in-house research, planning and design, marketing, and sales. For more information, visit: https://www.elliman.com/new-development . For more information about ALINA Residences Boca Raton, visit: www.alinabocaraton.com . The selection places ALINA among an exclusive group of luxury residential properties nationwide recognized for their commitment to delivery elevated resident experiences. Located in the heart of downtown Boca Raton, ALINA Residences was designed around a wellness-focused lifestyle that blends luxury, convenience and connection. “As luxury residential living continues to evolve, homeowners increasingly expect more than exceptional residences and resort-inspired amenities,” said Candace Jorritsma, El-Ad National Properties. German Cabieses, General Manager of ALINA Residences Boca Raton. Previous Next

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Celebrating Purim In Israel’s Marketplace By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil Mar 13, 2025 This Purim, Jews around the world will celebrate the holiday commemorating the salvation of the Jewish people in Ancient Persia, with extra meaning. The festival which is celebrated every year on the 14th of the Hebrew month of Adar, begins this year after nightfall on Thursday, March 13th and goes until nightfall on Friday, March 14th. It’s one of the most joyous days on the Jewish calendar, celebrating the overturning of a royal decree which called for the extermination of all Jews throughout the Persian Empire in 356 B.C.E. This year, Purim holds heightened significance as Jews are still experiencing one of the most difficult times in recent history. The enduring trauma of the Simchat Torah attacks on October 7th of last year, the war in Israel, the perilous fate of the 59 hostages still in Hamas captivity, and the distressing rise of antisemitism across the globe place a new understanding of the genocidal intent of the Purim story’s villain Haman, who sought to enact the elimination of the Jewish people. It also brings hope of the Jewish people overcoming the present challenges and a brighter future, as in the story of Purim, when the table was turned with miracles from the Almighty, the Jews were victorious over their enemies. The relevance and message of the festival of Purim has never been more acute than today. That is, when faced with those who wish evil upon us, the response of the Jewish people is to strengthen our trust in G-d and turn to joy as a way of combating darkness. In 1971, the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, called upon people in Israel to assist the soldiers of the IDF to fulfill the observances of Purim. The Purim awareness campaign has since expanded to reach all Jews, and today impacts people at hospitals, nursing homes, children at school and of course regular folks on the streets. The Jewish people are going through a very difficult time, but Purim reminds us that ultimately, through coming closer to G-d and our heritage, G-d will guide us through this time as he did for our ancestors, and this is why, despite all the evil, we will celebrate, as we have done countless times throughout our history. Although the general theme of Purim is all about Joy, the four specific Mitzvahs associated with this holiday are 1) Giving gifts of money to at least two poor people. 2) Sending food gifts, made up of at least two types of foods, to at least one friend. 3) Enjoy a festive Purim meal, preferably with friends. And 4) Recounting the story of the Purim miracle, by reading the Megillah, also known as the Scroll of Esther. When we take the focus off of ourselves, and instead see how we can help others, by giving charity and giving gifts of food. When our focus is shifted from celebrating in silence, to having a meal with others. When we remember the miracles that occurred, not just to our ancestors many years ago, but also to us, over and over again. It really forces us to bring out our inner joy, and slowly transform it into a pure joy! I encourage you to contact your local Chabad or synagogue to see what they’re doing to celebrate. You’re of course welcome to join us, free of charge at one of our many Megillah readings, or for only $3.60 at our annual Purim Party extravaganza! This year's theme is Purim in The Shuk, where you will be able to experience the vibe, energy & flavors of the Holy Land's Erev Shabbat Shuk marketplace. Since this year the holiday falls out on Friday, it’s preferable to start the festive meal before Halachic midday, which is at 1:29 p.m. that day. This makes the crazy Friday, before-Shabbos rush, even crazier! But we’ve been through greater challenges! And we’ll surely get through this one in the most fun and exciting way! Noted as the most joyous date on the Jewish calendar, the daylong holiday commemorates the nullification in 356 B.C.E. of a Persian decree calling for the extermination of the Jewish people throughout the Persian Empire as told in the biblical Book of Esther. Chabad’s original spin on this age-old holiday has helped bring the spirit of Purim to the area year after year. The event is a community-wide program, and all are welcome to join, regardless of affiliation or background. Children and adults will enjoy great shuk-themed foods like shawarma and falafel, live music, the Kibbutz Petting Zoo, Donkey Rides, Kotel Photobooth, Israeli Hair Braiding, Hebrew Name Bracelet Making and the whole Megillah! The festivities will be held right behind the construction site at 2601 NE 211th Terrace, Miami, Florida 33180, on Friday, March 14th at 1:00 p.m. - 3:30pm. For party details, Megillah reading times or to learn more about the holiday & the complete Purim story, or to help sponsor food for the poor either locally or in Israel, please call: (305) 770-1919. Or visit: www ChabadChayil.org/Purim A Poem: A visit to the Shuk, is always exciting But shopping this Purim, you’ll feel your soul igniting The hustle and bustle preparing for the Shabbat queen Israel's markets are unlike anywhere you've ever been The colors and aromas will necessitate many stops Grab a snack as you stroll through the shops This Friday extra rushed you may feel Cuz the Shabbat we anticipate is the ‘real deal’ ‘Yom Shekulo Shabbat’ is how the Moshiach era is known The tranquility of this special day, will finally be shown No more will there be war or heartache or pain This Shabbat all our brothers will be home, Amen About the Author Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, your local CTeen & CKids chapters, CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools and direct Chabad Chayil. He’s the Rabbi at The Family Shul and can be reached at: (305) 770-1919. Or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org . Previous Next

“Great American Egg Drive” - Deb El Food Products And Gibber Family Donate 2.1 Million Eggs To Met Council For Passover Distribution Jewish Connection News Apr 23, 2026 Just Days Before Passover Began Deb El Food Products And The Gibber Family, Partnered With Met Council In The Organization’s Largest Passover Food Distribution In History, Provided More Than 3.5 Million Pounds Of Kosher-For-Passover Food That Helped Families Across New York City And Long Island Celebrate The Holiday With Dignity, Despite Rising Food Costs. As part of the Great American Egg Drive, Deb El Food Products and the Gibber Family donated 2,100,000 eggs to the Met Council’s distribution efforts, ensuring families receive this essential holiday staple. The distribution reached more than 350,000 people through 250 distribution points, conducted in partnership with 230 community organizations and local food pantries, and supported by over 800 volunteers, including government officials and community members. Supporting local communities is a cause close to the heart of America’s egg farmers, who donate eggs to food banks and hunger relief organizations year-round. This spring, the American Egg Board expanded those efforts through the Great American Egg Drive, delivering eggs directly from farms to food banks nationwide so that wholesome, nutritious protein reaches families who need it most. In the weeks leading up to Passover, the Met Council surged over $6 Million worth of food to its pantries, partners, and special distribution sites. In addition to the eggs, other staples included 61,000 pounds of matzah, over 51,000 gallons of grape juice, Kosher-for-Passover chicken, gefilte fish, tuna, apple sauce, borscht, cake mix, chopped walnuts, cocoa powder, jam, lemon juice, macaroons, matzah meal, potato starch, sugar, tomato sauce, vinegar, fresh fruits and vegetables. “We are deeply honored to give back to the communities we serve,” said Deb El Food Products Vice President Michael Gibber. “This year, we are proud to contribute over 2.1 million eggs to help more than 350,000 people celebrate Passover with dignity. Giving back is at the core of who we are, and supporting the Jewish community during this important holiday is one of the most meaningful ways we can make a difference. We look forward to continuing this tradition for many years to come.” “Giving back to our communities is a fundamental value that has been passed down through generations,” said Deb El Food Products President and CEO Elliot Gibber. “We are committed to finding opportunities to support those we serve, and our partnership with the American Egg Board allows us to share the nutritional value of eggs with families in need. It is rewarding to see how our contributions help bring comfort and joy to so many during the holiday season.” “The generosity of Deb El Food Products and the Gibber Family in donating 2.1 million eggs was truly remarkable,” said Met Council CEO David G. Greenfield. “Thanks to their support and our partnership with the Great American Egg Drive, families across New York City and Long Island have access to this essential Passover staple. This collaboration helped make the holiday brighter for food-insecure families and underscores the power of community working together to fight hunger.” This year’s distribution reflected a significant expansion in both scale and impact. Powered by hundreds of volunteers and a network of community partners, Met Council is reaching deeper into neighborhoods and serving more families than ever before. The organization’s efforts ensure that Jewish families across the region could celebrate Passover with dignity, regardless of economic circumstances. As inflation and economic uncertainty continue to affect families year-round, the Met Council remains committed to fighting food insecurity and expanding its efforts beyond Passover, leveraging partnerships with government agencies, corporate sponsors, and community organizations to provide emergency food assistance to Jewish families in need. For more information or to support Met Council’s ongoing efforts, visit: https://passover.metcouncil.org Home of the Incredible Egg, the American Egg Board (AEB) is the U.S. egg industry’s national commodity marketing organization. The AEB’s mission is to increase demand for eggs and egg products through research, education and promotion. The AEB is located in Chicago, Ill. For more, visit: www.IncredibleEgg.org . Previous Next

Broward County Approves Virtual Inspections For Building Permits - Florida Tech Company Works With BORA To Splash Inspection Wait Times And Speed Construction South Florida Sun Times Aug 20, 2025 Inspected, A Tech-Enabled Private Provider Offering Alternative Plan Review And Remote Virtual Inspections For Residential And Commercial Contractors, Applauds The Broward County Board Of Rules And Appeals (BORA) For Its Decision To Now Allow Private Providers To Conduct Remote Virtual Inspections On Building Permit-Related Projects. The Board’s Vote On August 14th, 2025, To Amend Chapter 1, Section 110.3.13 Of The Florida Building Code, Broward County Administrative Provisions, Will Have An Immediate Impact On Contractors, Home Builders, And Property Owners Across The County. Inspected worked with BORA to repeal the restriction on remote virtual inspections and how they could be used, aiming to streamline the construction process and reduce lengthy delays for both contractors and homeowners. "As a Broward County-based company, we're proud to work with BORA to bring the full benefits of remote virtual inspections to our local community," said Ian Cohen, President and COO of Inspected. "This decision by BORA will revolutionize the construction industry and attract new business, just as it has across the rest of Florida, by increasing efficiency and reducing costs while maintaining rigorous safety standards." Cohen first presented the advantages of expanding remote virtual inspections during a May 8th, 2025, BORA meeting. Subsequent meetings on July 10th, 2025, and August 14th, 2025, further refined the need to repeal the restriction on remote virtual inspections, culminating in the previous amendment's full repeal. The board’s vote aligns Broward County with the rest of Florida in embracing comprehensive remote virtual inspection practices and opening access for private providers to serve contractors throughout the county. “When I founded Inspected, I saw the urgent need for remote virtual inspections across Florida,” said Anthony Perera, Founder at Inspected. “Our vision always included Broward County benefiting from this technology, and today that vision becomes reality. We're fully operational in Broward right now, ready to help contractors apply for permits with Inspected attached as their private provider and start inspecting their projects as early as next week.” Since January 1st, 2024, Inspected has conducted over 100,000 inspections across Florida. The company's remote virtual inspection platform, Permit Hub, uses advanced features such as high-definition video streaming, inspection checklists, geo-tagging, and access to approved plans via a secure platform to ensure thorough and code-compliant inspections. Inspected, recently recognized as the #1 South Florida Business Journal's fastest-growing company under $10 million, stands ready to support local contractors and property owners in adopting this transformative technology. Inspected has already registered with all cities across Broward County and is fully operational to work with contractors of all types. To learn more about Inspected and its alternative plan review and remote virtual inspection technology and services, visit: www.inspected.com . Inspected Partner Contractors Praise Broward County's Adoption Of Virtual Inspections “Partnering with Inspected in the South Florida markets has been a game-changer for Renewal by Andersen. In an industry where timing, precision, and customer satisfaction are everything, the ability to conduct virtual inspections has revolutionized our workflow and elevated the homeowner experience,” said Steve Gorecki, South Florida Operations Manager, Renewal by Andersen. “Thanks to Inspected’s innovative platform, we’re now able to install, inspect, and complete final trim on window projects—all in a single day. What used to take three separate appointments and days of coordination is now streamlined into one seamless process. Broward County’s decision to embrace this technology will not only reduce disruption for homeowners but also allow our teams to operate with greater speed and confidence throughout all of South Florida.” "We've seen Inspected revolutionize the permitting and inspection process in Miami, and we're thrilled they can finally operate in Broward County," said Daren Portillo Sarti, Sr. Production Manager, Jacuzzi Bath Remodel of Miami. "Their ability to complete both rough and final inspections the same day will be a game-changer for Broward contractors. This means less disruption for homeowners and faster completions, which our customers will love. Broward County's decision opens up new opportunities for efficiency and customer satisfaction." "Inspected's virtual inspections have transformed our operations in other parts of Florida, and we're eager to bring that efficiency to Broward County," said Brian Miller, Owner, PES Solar. "Their service helps us close permits faster and keep production schedules on track. Now that Broward has approved virtual inspections, property owners here will experience fewer delays and a smoother overall process. This is a big win for the entire construction industry in Broward." "At Ace Pro Roofing, we’ve experienced the benefits of partnering with Inspected for virtual inspections in Palm Beach County, and we're excited about the potential in Broward," said John DeMatteo, Owner, Ace Pro Roofing. "This technology helps us close permits faster and offers more scheduling flexibility. Broward County's decision will bring these benefits to local contractors and homeowners, streamlining workflows and providing secure digital records of all inspections." About Inspected.com: Inspected.com is a remote virtual inspection platform for construction and renovation industry professionals. The Company is transforming the construction and renovation industry with one of the first purpose-built software platforms. Designed for remote inspectors to connect with onsite personnel, Inspected is a Virtual Inspection Software Platform that is reinventing the way inspections are done, saving contractors valuable time and costs. Inspected keeps inspections moving forward efficiently, creating a dedicated compliance solution with security and convenience of cloud technology, accessible from anywhere on any device, with or without the app. Previous Next

“Stars and Strings” The Biggest Country Show is Coming to South Florida Thu Aug 25 2022 16:09:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi Launches New Premier Sightseeing Cruise South Florida Sun Times Jun 11, 2026 Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi Is Excited To Announce The Launch Of Its Brand-New Premier Sightseeing Cruise Last Week And Are Offering Visitors And Locals A New Way To Experience The Venice Of America From The Water. Departing daily from Stop F7 at Las Olas Landing, the 90 minute narrated sightseeing cruise will take guests through Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Intracoastal Waterway aboard one of the iconic Water Taxi vessels. Guests will experience waterfront mansions, mega yachts, historic landmarks, and the vibrant energy of Fort Lauderdale from a unique perspective on the water. The Premier Sightseeing Cruise will operate three times daily at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m., creating flexible opportunities for guests to enjoy the experience throughout the day. “This new sightseeing cruise is an exciting addition to what we offer here at Water Taxi,” said Bill Walker, CEO of Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi. “Fort Lauderdale is one of the most beautiful cities in the country from the water, and this experience allows both visitors and locals to slow down, relax, and truly take in everything that makes this city so special.” The cruise is designed to provide a relaxing and entertaining experience for visitors looking to explore Fort Lauderdale beyond the traditional beach experience while also offering residents a fresh way to rediscover their city. “We are always looking for ways to continue elevating the guest experience and showcase Fort Lauderdale as a premier waterfront destination,” said Greg Farley, President of Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi. “The Premier Sightseeing Cruise gives people the opportunity to enjoy the city’s incredible waterways in a fun, accessible, and memorable way.” Guests aboard the cruise will enjoy live narration highlighting the history, culture, architecture, and lifestyle that make Fort Lauderdale one of South Florida’s most unique destinations. “We’re thrilled to officially launch this new experience for our guests,” said Jennifer Hoffman, General Manager of Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi. “Whether someone is visiting for the first time or has lived here for years, there’s something magical about seeing Fort Lauderdale from the water. We believe this cruise will quickly become a must-do attraction in the city.” Tickets for the Premier Sightseeing Cruise are available now at: https://watertaxi.com/premier-sightseeing-cruise/ For more information about Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi and its experiences, visit: https://watertaxi.com . Previous Next

“Toes In The Sand” Annual Celebration: The Zac Brown Band Will Light Up The Stage This Month Thu Jan 04 2024 17:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Florida’s Singing Sons: Middle School Opera Stars Steal The Spotlight Thu Apr 06 2023 16:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)