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List Now while the market is hot July 28, 2021 Share Not every real estate professional targets his or her career to be known as a “concierge broker.” Twenty-plus years ago, when she first started out in real estate, that was the goal of Lonna Spitaleri, now founder/owner/broker of Costa Bella Realty Group in Hollywood. From the beginning, Lonna wanted to be recognized as a real estate sales professional, who could exceed her client’s expectations in delivering personalized service, whether the sale was small or monumental And she obviously succeeded. Lonna started her career as a sales associate with RE/MAX. During each of the eight years she was affiliated with that agency, she was awarded the 100% or Platinum Award as a Top Producer. Following that and just prior to founding Costa Bella Realty Group in 2016, Lonna had worked an additional eight years as a Broker Associate with another top real estate brokerage, where again, she consistently was cited as a Top Producer. Today, not only is Lonna the owner of a fine boutique real estate brokerage, but she has advanced her credentials with the designation of Certified Luxury Home Specialist, as well as some other specialized industry certifications. Lonna specializes in all types of properties that include: luxury homes, single family homes, condos and commercial properties. She serves as a buyer’s agent as well as a seller’s agent. Lonna and her agents assist clients with decision-making in properties under construction, relocations, waterfront properties, vacation homes and investment properties. She guides first-time home buyers by providing research on all applicable properties. Currently, her company Costa Bella Realty Group has 25 agents, personally selected by Lonna for their personality, attitudes and people skills. Besides English, Costa Bella Realty Group can offer professional service and expertise in Russian, Spanish, French, Creole and Italian. Under Lonna’s direction, each agent is groomed in sensitivity training to meet individual client needs and the expertise to follow through with a smooth transaction to the sale. Known as a boutique real estate brokerage, Costa Bella Realty Group has assisted clients in the buying and selling of residential and commercial properties ranging in every price range. Agents with Costa Bella have South Florida covered from north Miami-Dade through Palm Beach Counties. That includes 52 areas of preferred locations such as: Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Golden Beach, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood and the Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Hillsborough Beach, Boca Raton, Sea Ranch Lakes and Lighthouse Point, as well as Plantation, Davie, Cooper City and Coral Springs. The brokerage has also helped clients close on hotels and motels on Hollywood Beach and Downtown Hollywood. Costa Bella Realty Group is located at 330 North Federal Highway in Hollywood, in the same building as the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. “Being located so physically close to the Chamber has given us a wonderful opportunity to work with other professionals involved in the redevelopment of Downtown Hollywood and to help bring business and residents to the area,” says Lonna. “Hollywood is our home base and efforts to help make it bigger and stronger, is to everyone’s advantage,” she adds. Lonna keeps ahead of all trends, but is quick to point out that the major problem in real estate today, is a lack of inventory. “Everybody wants to move to Florida,” she says. They are coming down in droves and we do not have enough product to show them. People are outbidding the asking prices of homes here. That is definitely an area that we can guide our clients for the best results.” Having been a resident of South Florida for more than 50 years during which she raised her three children, Lonna now is able to take advantage of a fabulous South Florida lifestyle. Lonna continues to maintain ongoing relationships with her clients, updating them about changing market cycles and trends. This enables them to make real estate investment decisions for their families and themselves throughout the year. As a result of this unique personalized connection, Lonna Spitaleri remains one of the area’s top producers and sought-after real estate professionals. Lonna has received many 5-star commendations from buyers and sellers, noted for her knowledge of the market, comparable values for buying or selling and being in fine tune with her clients’ needs, goals, styles and preferences. “Right now, the market is hot and inventory is low,” says Lonna. She wants to remind homeowners that if they are considering selling their home any time soon, this is the time to list. “Costa Realty Group will be happy to provide a free market analysis of any property”, says Lonna, “to help list and sell it for the best possible price in this sizzling sellers’ market.” “Nothing is more exciting to me than the gratifying feeling I get from helping people with their real estate needs,” says Lonna. “I take pride in being informative, honest and trustworthy in helping people find their dream home or investment property at the best price or offer for their sale.” According to Lonna, this is where being a concierge broker comes in. “Every transaction, especially in this tumultuous South Florida real estate market, requires intense due diligence,” she says. “Too many people are just out to make the sell,” she adds. “Our goal is to understand the needs and create a satisfied client. Having a successful outcome for our clients, is the Costa Bella Group criteria for success. Their satisfaction is our success.” Lonna Spitaleri Costa Bella International Realty 954-921-2800 330 N. Federal Hwy., Hollywood, Fl 33020 email: lonna@costabellarealtygroup.com website: www.costabellarealtygroup.com < Previous News Next News >

Dr. Jessica Cismas Improves Smiles, Facial Structure and Health with Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry October 21, 2021 Share Dr. Jessica Cismas is a general and cosmetic dentist. With more than 57,000 patients to her credit in private practice and clinics throughout the United States and Canada, she has been recognized throughout her profession for her remarkable dexterity, artistic skills and gentle, kind approach Dr. Cismas earned her DMD (Doctor of Medical Dentistry) in 2005 from University of Montreal and completed her GPR (General Practice Residency) in 2006 from McGill University. Immediately after completing her schooling, she moved to Manhattan, where she worked for 12 years in diverse dental offices, for the purpose of acquiring a wide range of unique experiences. She continues to participate regularly in weekly dental group studies and attends more than double the required continuing education classes annually to keep abreast of the latest technology and innovative procedures in her field. During her 16-year career, Dr. Cismas has performed thousands of procedures that include veneers, tooth bonding, teeth bleaching, crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, emergency treatments, root canals, fillings, extractions, night guards, flippers, Valplast® partial and full dentures, periodontal treatment and implant restorative care. She also completed many treatments using FirstFit®, Invisalign®, Clear Correct® and Snap-On Smiles®. Dr. Cismas uses cutting edge technology incorporating digital dentistry on a daily basis. However, her true passion is cosmetic dentistry. Many patients are referred to her for challenging aesthetic problems. Some of them are patients who are not satisfied with previous cosmetic procedures; others are simply curious as to how they can improve their smile. “Technology has removed a lot of guess work in dentistry,” says Dr. Cismas, but in cosmetic dentistry, a keen sense of artistry must be applied for the ultimate aesthetic effect. I only use the best materials, equipment and team with the top labs in the country to achieve the best results.” Through her weekly online consults with dental groups around the world, Dr. Cismas is exposed to ever-changing new approaches and techniques and she will update current procedures in her practice as indicated. In her calm and compassionate manner, once Dr. Cismas carefully has explained the problem to her patient, she will present several corrective options that can work, allowing for the patient to make his or her own decision. “It’s important for patients to understand the problem and take the time to make the right choice for themselves, based on their personal priorities,” she adds. Dr. Cismas has been part of Aventura Dental Group since 2017. She works very closely with the periodontists in her office to methodically plan implant and periodontal surgery and treatment. “Quite often patients appear with improperly placed implants, because the practitioner did not have an overall plan in mind for a final restoration of the mouth. Consequently, gum problems can occur and the implant may need to be removed and replaced,” says Dr. Cismas. “That’s the benefit of evaluating the situation along with the periodontist.” When teeth are being treated or broken teeth repaired, Dr. Cismas pays particular attention to occlusion, defined as the meeting of the upper and lower teeth. “Correct occlusion of a patient’s bite is important whether simply filling a tooth or performing a full mouth reconstruction,” she says. Because this is such a significant concern in good dentistry, Dr. Cismas went above and beyond to complete a year-long specialty course just on occlusion. “Typical presentations of occlusion problems are worn down, aging or broken teeth.” says Dr Cismas. “This damage can cause loss of a patient’s facial vertical dimension. As the patient’s bite slowly collapses, the jaw reacts by closing more than it should, which affects alignment of the teeth, lips and other facial features. Results could include flattened upper and lower lips, wrinkling and droopy, folding facial skin, especially in the corners of the lips.” Dr. Cismas notes that these are the facial changes that contribute to an aging appearance! “The solution in this situation is to open the patient’s bite in order to restore it to how it was in the past or even improve it. By restoring the bite, Dr. Cismas says that facial structure improves. Premature wrinkles can be stretched over an improved alignment. With better support, lips can appear fuller, lessening the need for Botox and fillers. “A collapsed bite can be corrected with metal braces or clear plastic liners such as Invisalign®, veneers, inlays, onlays, crowns, bridges and/or implants” says Dr. Cismas. “Length of time and cost will depend on the severity of the problem, condition of the mouth and how long the abnormality has been present. It is really important to make these corrections at any age from a health and cosmetic perspective and the extra benefit definitely is a more youthful appearance and sense of well-being.” Dr. Cismas’ online ratings are 5-star. William Ellingsworth summed it up in his review by saying “I never met a nicer, more humble, sincere, caring professional as Dr. Jessica Cismas. Her technique and chairside manner is first class and second to none. Her exam was thorough and thoughtful. Her assessment made perfect sense and she explained everything to me in detail, leaving no questions unanswered.” “Cosmetic surgery is an art form,” says Dr. Cismas. “I have many patients who have visited me from Europe and South America for corrective work. Referrals seem to have gone far. Comfort and open communication is also a key player in my patient interaction." “I treat everyone as though they are family. Also, I must love the finished product myself before I will even show the patient the result. My patient’s satisfaction is definitely my best reward!” As if her days are not full enough, this remarkable woman enjoys spending her non-professional time at home with her husband Marius, four growing boys and a brand new baby girl. Jessica Cismas, DMD Aventura Dental Group 20475 Biscayne blvd, Suite G9, Aventura, Fl 33180 (305) 935-4030 www.aventuraDentalGroup.com Instagram: aventuradentalgroup < Previous News Next News >

Aventura Branch Library Happenings: Maintaining a Healthy Aging Brain in a Pandemic World And Much More April 8, 2022 Share The Aventura Branch Library has a wide variety of On-line and In-Person events. There will be Talk, Read, Sing for Preschoolers, a book discussion group, chess/checkers club and much more. Some events may require you to RSVP, so, please go On-line to register at: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura or for more information prior to attending the event, call: (305) 931-5512. Chess & Checkers Club for Beginners Thu, Apr 14, 4:00pm - 6:00pm Sharpen your strategic thinking skills by playing other fans of these classic games. Space is limited. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch. 8 years of age and up. Online Event: Vase and Flower Drawing Thursday, April 14th, 2022 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Learn how to draw a vase and flowers based on the artwork of Henri Matisse alongside art instructor Barbara Freiberg. Use lines, shapes and angles to create your drawing with colored pencils to bring it to life. Space is limited. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch. 19 years of age and up. Kid's Classic Film Club - Chaplin's The Kid (NR) - Screening and Discussion Thursday, April 14th, 2022 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Auditorium Join our screening and discussion of Charlie Chaplin's first full length movie, The Kid. Let's explore Chaplin's art of movie-making, acting and his early life. Space is limited. Registration required. For more information, contact the branch. (53 minutes). 8 years of age and up. On-line Event: Poetry Club Saturday, April 16th, 2022 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Connect with other poetry lovers from home! Share your original pieces or discuss an enjoyable work of poetry. We will also discuss some classic poetry. Space is limited for this On-line event. Registration is required. Zoom link will be e-mailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. 12 years of age and up. Talking is Teaching: Talk, Read, Sing for Preschoolers Tuesday, April 19th, 2022 4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Join us for stories, songs and activities for preschoolers. A grab and go craft will also be available to take home. Space is limited. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch. 3-5 years of age. On-line Event: Falun Gong Meditation & Exercises Wednesday, April 20th, 2022 10:00am - 11:30am Falun Gong is an ancient, high level Chinese practice that uses gentle movements and meditation to cultivate the body, mind and spirit. Space is limited for this On-line event. Registration is required. Zoom link will be e-mailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. 19 years of age and up. Financial Literacy Workshop Wednesday, April 20th, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Learn how to protect your identity, debt relief, budget and more. Each session will cover a different topic. Presented by a representative from the Miami-Dade County Federal Credit Union. Space is limited. Registration is required. 12 years of age and up. English Conversation & Reading Circle Monday, April 25th, 2022 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Practice your English conversation and reading skills with other learners. This session is appropriate for beginning to advanced level learners. You can join us from home via Zoom or In-Person at the library! Space is limited for the On-line and In-Person event. Registration is required. For the On-line event, a Zoom link will be e-mailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. For the in-person event, masks are required and social distancing is encouraged. 19 years of age and up. Some of the above events are On-line. To register, go to: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura For more information, feel free to contact the Aventura Branch at: (305) 931-5512. The Aventura Branch library is located at 2930 Aventura Boulevard, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

New Trial for Patients with Advanced and Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer Available Now Wed Jul 28 2021 17:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Village of Extension: Hallandale’s Newest & Hottest Beauty Bar By Austin Torres July 28, 2021 Share Are you in search of a new beauty salon? Are you looking for a fun change in your life? Then the Village of Extension might just be the perfect place for you to visit. This luxurious salon caters to all hair styles and hair types and offers top tier service as well as some of the finest quality wigs and extensions. Village of Extension’s owner, Madjona, recently opened the doors to her beauty bar in April and is eager to take care of any and all customers. Take a step inside this gorgeous salon and treat yourself to a new wig while enjoying some of the greatest customer service in the city. Madjona’s journey as a hair expert began in 2016. While styling the hair of several clients, she began to develop a true passion for hair care that would ultimately motivate her to open up her own salon. After spending time searching for the right space, Madjona finally settled on a location in 2020. Due to the pandemic, she decided to spend time remodeling and developing the space before, finally opening it in 2021. The end result is an immaculate salon, pristinely kept, completely updated, and ready to take care of all your hair needs. As soon as you enter Village of Extension, you will notice beautiful natural lighting that pours in through the massive windows at the entrance of the salon. Gorgeous wood style flooring gives the space a modern and chic, but organic look. At the receptionist desk, you will see a bed of garden styled décor, providing the backdrop to the titular welcoming sign that adorns the wall which reads “Village of Extension Beauty Bar.” To the left of the store, you will find numerous products; elegant wigs of various styles hung on a rack, as well as a diverse selection of girdles and bras: body strapless girdles, wide waist hip hugger girdles, deep cut bras and deep cut with underwire bras. Additionally, you will also find plenty of lovely headbands from esteemed brands like Gucci and Dior. To the left, you’ll find a number of beauty stations; plush comfortable chairs for clients to sit on along with brilliantly lit mirrors. Down the middle, you will find a stately red carpet rolled out for guests, because every customer that walks in through that door is a star. Village of Extensions’ beautiful décor and design, have a Californian aesthetic that is set up to make customers feel welcome and at home, inside this upscale salon. The most popular products Madjona sells at Village of Extension, are wigs and extensions. Madjona’s products are of the highest caliber, delicately crafted, using 100% unprocessed human hair. Some of you reading this article might be wondering, “Why wear a wig?” In recent years, wigs and hair extensions have exploded in popularity, with a variety of different well-known celebrities, wearing wigs as an act of self-expression. Hair, as Madjona and any hair expert knows, is a major component and fundamental part of our personalities and how we express ourselves. Wigs give women the freedom and opportunity to express themselves in unique ways, without having to go through the tedious and often damaging processes of changing their hair. Dye jobs, blowouts, relaxing and curling treatments, mousse, root lifters, and hairspray, all take a significant toll on your hair and they can cause long lasting damage. But, by owning a wig or two you can have the option to drastically change your look in a positive way without having to jeopardize the health of your hair. Another positive aspect of wearing a wig is the possibility of trying a new look without having to commit to it. Have a new color you want to try out but too afraid of the commitment of a dye job? Give a wig a go and see how you look. Let your hair have the rest it needs with a wig, while also stepping outside the norm and experimenting with a different look. Wigs are also a great way to change your look up without having to spent too much time doing so. Imagine all of the time that can be saved by wearing wig. On average women spend 6 years doing their hair, great deal of time that could potentially be saved by keeping a wig handy. And you can rest assured knowing that all of Village of Extensions are made to last. Lace enclosures can last for up to 12 months, while wigs could have a lifespan of 5 years, if handled with proper care, and since they are made with 100% unprocessed hair, they can even be dyed. Come by Village of Extension and check out any of one of their great options ranging from the powerful deep curl which features voluptuous depth, to the more classical and tame straight style, there is no shortage of options. Village of Extension also offers full salon treatment, and bridal packages. For more information you can contact Village of Extension at 305.420.6369, visit their websites at: https://villageofextension.com Instagram: @villageofextension, or email them at villageofextension@gmail.com . Village of Extensions’ hours of operation are Monday- Saturday 10am-8pm. Village of Extension is also currently looking to employ hairstylists, braiders, and makeup artists, so if you are looking for a wonderful new salon to bring your talents to, you are encouraged to come visit. “My favorite part of working in this business is helping my people and watching them leave the store happy with a huge smile,” says Madjona. Village of Extension is looking for professional stylist and manicurist. If you would like to be a part of this amazing team call 305-420-6396. < Previous News Next News >

Movie Night Aventura Fri Apr 07 2023 16:18:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Brightline Opens: New Stations In Aventura And Boca Raton Fri Feb 03 2023 17:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Bijoux Shelami: Where Fashion Meets Family, Quality Meets Quantity By Austin Torres November 17, 2023 Share Nestled in the heart of our beloved community, there's a treasure trove waiting to be discovered – Bijoux Shelami Costume Jewelry Wholesale & Retail. For the past 28 years, Bijoux Shelami has adorned our lives with elegance and charm, and the current dynamic duo behind this small jewelry business, Laura Solis and Sally Conner, have taken it to new heights over the last three years. Laura and Sally, partners and joint owners of Bijoux Shelami, are no strangers to the world of fashion jewelry. They were drawn to the allure of owning their own retail store, and when the opportunity to purchase Bijoux Shelami arose, they seized it with both hands. The timing was perfect, and their close relationship with the retiring owner made it a seamless transition. "Our favorite part of running this business is being able to curate a diverse collection of jewelry for our customers, offering them a wide range of choices at reasonable prices," Laura explains. "We take pride in being a small, personalized jewelry store that stands in contrast to larger department stores." Stepping into Bijoux Shelami feels like entering the warm embrace of a dear friend's home. The store exudes an inviting ambiance, with soft lighting that accentuates the shimmering jewelry adorning the display cases. As you browse the exquisite rings, necklaces, bracelets, and more, you can't help but be captivated by the sheer beauty that surrounds you. The heart and soul of Bijoux Shelami are its dedicated owners and staff, each with their unique charm and expertise. Laura Solis and Sally Conner, partners and joint owners, bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the business. Their friendly smiles and warm greetings make every visitor feel like an honored guest. Flower Ramirez, a beloved member of the Bijoux Shelami family for over a decade, is a true fashion connoisseur. Her keen eye for style and trends ensures that you'll receive personalized recommendations that perfectly complement your taste. Together, Laura, Sally, and Flower create a dynamic team that caters to your every jewelry need, whether you're searching for that one-of-a-kind piece or simply seeking expert advice on what to wear for an upcoming event. At this one-of-a-kind jewelry store you can find everything from standard jewelry such as rings, necklaces, and earrings, to clothing apparel including hats, and purses. As you engage with the Bijoux Shelami family, you'll quickly realize that this is more than just a jewelry store—it's a community hub where friendships are forged, stories are shared, and laughter resonates through the air. Regular customers have become cherished friends over the years, stopping by not only to find the perfect accessory for special occasions but also to catch up on life's latest adventures. The conversations flow freely, just like the sparkling gems in the store. Bijoux Shelami's inviting atmosphere encourages you to linger, explore, and connect. It's a place where everyone knows your name, where memories are made, and where the bonds of friendship are strengthened. So, whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime member of the Bijoux Shelami family, you can expect a warm welcome, a genuine connection, and an unforgettable shopping experience. Join us today and become a part of our close-knit community, where every customer is treated like family. One of Bijoux Shelami's unique offerings is the opportunity to buy wholesale in smaller quantities, perfect for DIY jewelry makers and enthusiasts. Laura and Sally understand the joy of crafting one's own jewelry, and they've curated a selection of high-quality pieces and supplies at unbeatable prices. "We have all kinds of different supplies available at wholesale prices in smaller quantities," Laura mentions. "It's our way of supporting the creative spirit in our community and making quality materials accessible." For those of you searching a perfect accessory for that special occasion coming up, we encourage you to visit Bijoux Shelami for their upcoming Black Friday sale. Select items from the store will have varying discounts as high as 50%. Whether you are looking for a necklace, purse, rings, or sunglasses, you are sure to find the right match at Bijoux Shelami. As if the warm ambiance and friendly staff weren't inviting enough, Bijoux Shelami is also a dog-friendly store. Meet Abby and Archie, the Miniature Schnauzers who greet every visitor with wagging tails and a welcoming spirit. They add an extra layer of warmth to the already cozy atmosphere. Bijoux Shelami Costume Jewelry Wholesale & Retail is more than just a jewelry store; it's a cherished part of our community. Laura, Sally, Flower, and the lovable canine companions make sure that every visit is a memorable experience. Whether you're seeking the perfect accessory, crafting your own masterpiece, or simply looking for a friendly face, Bijoux Shelami is the place to be. Join the Bijoux Shelami family today and explore a world of fashion, creativity, and camaraderie. You can contact Bijoux Shelami at: (954) 456-2262. Or visit their store at 30 Northeast 1st Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. Bijoux Shelami is open Monday - Friday from 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and is closed on Sundays. Discover your style at Bijoux Shelami – Where Fashion Meets Family, and Quality Meets Quantity. < Previous News Next News >

Summer Theater Camp Returns Fri Mar 10 2023 17:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

One Stop Construction: Guiding You Through Your Projects From Conception to Completion January 13, 2022 Share The One Stop team, as their name suggests, worked to create a one-stop business that offers everything in house. From pools and wall decorative stones, to interior renovations and structural damage repair. One Stop Construction ensures that all staff on board are fit for the task by dedicating time to the individual client and their specific needs. In all areas of construction, management and production, Jesus Velazquez and his team at One Stop Construction Inc. are celebrated for their in-depth expertise and professionalism. For over 18 years they’ve been serving the South Florida community, approaching each construction project with meticulous care and unrivaled efficiency. Velazquez has been operating One Stop Construction Inc. for 18 years. In that time he and his company have performed and completed a wide and varied range of projects across South Florida. Their level of expertise in new construction and renovation is detailed and comprehensive, all the while communicating with all clients throughout different phases of each project. So what exactly makes them so unique? One Stop Construction is actually one of the only construction companies that give you on the spot estimates for the cost of a project. “Depending on how simple the project is we can even give them a rough estimate over the phone just to make sure they have realistic expectations,” Velazquez said. Velazquez and his team got into the construction business because they wanted to simplify and streamline the construction process for as many people as they could. So not only do they offer on the spot estimates, but they also provide all of the design work in house as well. Anyone can now create the home or business space they have always desired with services from the general contractors at One Stop Construction, Inc. As a full service General Contractor, you’ll have experts with you every step of the way. The reason this is so valuable is that you can conform the design to the budget from the very beginning and not the other way around. If a client has a project in mind that falls out of their budget, One Stop will advise and course correct in the early stages of design so no time is wasted. In this way One Stop Construction set out to irrevocably change the landscape of construction and create a more efficient way to get projects completed. The problem as they saw it was how complex and often counter productive the current process was for getting any construction or renovation work done was for people. Those looking to get construction work done traditionally have to get their designs and renderings from another architect, individual designer or entity. This tends to create issues for the clients when they realize the design they envisioned is unaffordable and out of reach. The biggest problem, as Velazquez sees it, is the disconnect between the design, the designer and contracting costs. “Usually the design individual or entity doesn’t have an accurate pulse on the numbers,” Velazquez said. “So what will happen is, we’ll go out to quote something based on the architectural plans and design rendering and when we give them the price it’s completely out of their budget.” That’s why Velazquez and the One Stop team, as their name suggests, worked to create a one-stop business that offers everything in house. That way, they can guide their clients through the whole process from conception to completion and ensure the best quality project for a reasonable and cost efficient price. “We tell them, ‘Look, this is roughly the range you can expect to pay for this project.’ We do this with regards to everything from design, to permits, to construction. So that allows for a realistic understanding of whether they can move forward with the project or not,” said Velazquez. Furthermore, they focus on working with only products and equipment with the highest quality, as well as the best subcontractors and well-known designers from around the world. The customer experience is always the primary concern and One Stop aspires to deliver the best results possible. They specialize in new construction for residential and commercial projects, which include Custom Homes, Shopping Centers, Community Developments and full remodeling and retrofit of existing structures. From pools and wall decorative stones, to interior renovations and structural damage repair, One Stop Construction ensures that all staff on board are fit for the task by dedicating time to the individual client and their specific needs. In this way, Velazquez and his team guarantee that the client can get the perfect renovation, construction, or repair at an affordable price without wasting their time on multiple contractors for one project. One Stop Construction has its clients in mind at all times. Their price estimates that are written within 24 to 48 hours and if the customer feels uncomfortable with in-person meetings, they also offer video conference calls to minimize contact. Their diverse and proactive team is focused on discovering the solution that serves the client. They have multifaceted expertise in a wide range of projects and methods of execution that help them complete projects on time and with care. Using a combination of both time-proven and cutting-edge methods, they work to ensure their client’s projects are executed to their full potential. For them, projects are not just buildings and construction is not just a job. These are clients' plans for the future. They are goals to be achieved with the utmost care. “The most enjoyable part of this job is seeing the joy in someone having a pleasant experience in an industry saturated with non-professionals,” Velazquez said. Seeing someone happy with not only the end result but the overall experience is what makes it worth it.” You can reach them by phone at: (305)442-2799 or on their website: www.onestopconstruction.com < Previous News Next News >

South Florida Symphony Orchestra Spirited Season- Acclaimed Pianist Svetlana Smolina Returns To Enchant Audiences At The Parker And At New World Center In Miami Beach South Florida Sun Times Jan 1, 2026 South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) Continues Its 28th Spirited Masterworks Season Of “Juxtapositions” With Two New Sparkling Evenings Of Music Led By SFSO’s Award-Winning Music Director Sebrina Maria Alfonso. On Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 At The Parker In Fort Lauderdale, Located At 707 Northeast 8th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33004 And On Thursday, January 22, At New World Center In Miami Beach, 500 17th Street, Miami, Florida 33139 Rhythmic Drive Meets Lyrical Beauty In An Exhilarating Program Brimming With Wit And Brilliance, Anchored By The Sweeping Power Of Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2. SFSO Fan-Favorite Svetlana Smolina Also Returns For Ravel’s Jazzy And Spirited Piano Concerto In G Major, And Vaughan Williams’ Ethereal Fantasia On A Theme By Thomas Tallis Opens The Evocative Evening. Both Concerts Begin At 7:30 p.m. On Thursday, January 22nd, 2026 At New World Center, Enjoy A Pre-Concert Chat With Dr. Alan Mason 30 Minutes Before The Concert, Featuring In-Depth Conversation And Insights About The Works And Composers. “Sibelius, Ravel, and Vaughan Williams each beautifully reveal a different facet of musical expression,” said Maestra Sebrina Maria Alfonso. “Sibelius’ sweeping Second Symphony grows from quiet introspection into a radiant, triumphant finish; Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G shines with jazzy brilliance through Svetlana Smolina's signature artistry; and Vaughan Williams' otherworldly Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis offers a warm, lyrical serenity. Bringing this spectrum of sound to our audiences in Fort Lauderdale and Miami is truly inspiring.” Among her many accolades, Pianist Svetlana Smolina has performed with major orchestras and in recitals worldwide, including the New York Philharmonic, Mariinsky Orchestra, St. Petersburg Philharmonic, Orchestre National de France, Salzburg Festival, Hollywood Bowl, Ravinia, White Nights in Saint Petersburg, Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Moscow Easter Festival, Rotterdam Philharmonic, Hanoi Opera House, London’s Royal Opera Covent Garden, and Rome’s Accademia Santa Cecilia. She has appeared frequently with South Florida Symphony Orchestra, including during its 25th Anniversary Season, and will also be the featured guest artist at the Symphony’s 2026 gala on Saturday, January 17th, 2026. Her discography includes the solo album Romantic Journey and a 2025 recording of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with the Czech National Symphony Orchestra, both produced by Luca Rustici for L’n’R Productions/Universal Music. Other recordings include Chopin for iTunes, Scriabin on Pentatone, a live concert with Christopher O’Riley in Montana, and a Walt Disney Concert Hall recording for BCM+D Records. Her performances have aired on NPR, WQXR, BBC, PBS, RAI, and Kultura TV. Her recording of Stravinsky’s Les Noces with Valery Gergiev received an International Classical Music Award (ICMA). Smolina has collaborated in chamber music with Ida Haendel, Vadim Repin, Narek Hakhnazaryan, Kian Soltani, Charlie Siem, and others, performing at venues including Koerner Hall (Toronto), Salle Garnier de Monte Carlo, and Teatro Lirico di Cagliari. Recent engagements include tours in China, Peru, Brazil, Japan, Greece and Spain and festival appearances at iPalpiti, Classical Tahoe and Triumph Music Festival. SFSO’s 28th Season of “Juxtapositions” explores beauty in contrasts, where the bold and the sublime intersect, and timeless masterpieces share the stage with today’s most compelling and celebrated musical voices. From Mozart’s vivacious “Haffner” symphony to the sun-drenched skies of Mendelssohn’s “Italian” and the sweeping emotion of Sibelius’ Violin Concerto — performances burst with color and power. Beethoven’s luminous Piano Concerto No. 4 and Dvorak’s Bohemian Eighth deepen the journey, while Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio espagnol whirls with Spanish flair. SFSO is also proud to present upcoming orchestra firsts by contemporary GRAMMY-nominated composers, including the Florida premiere of Had to Be by Haitian American Nathalie Joachim, featuring breakout cellist Seth Parker Woods, and Carlos Simon’s Four Black American Dances. From sold-out masterworks performances to accompanying today’s musicians such as Natalie Merchant and performing modern musical scores including Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas and Back to the Future, featuring the iconic films screened live with audio and musical accompaniment, South Florida’s largest symphonic orchestra is continuing its journey of excellence inspiring audiences of all ages and musical genres. Tickets are now on sale beginning at $35 (plus ticketing fees). For Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 Fort Lauderdale tickets, buy tickets online at: https://southfloridasymphony.org - Or: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222, press 1; and in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. For Thursday, January 22nd, 2026 Miami Beach tickets, buy tickets online at: https://southfloridasymphony.org - By phone at: (305) 673-3331. Or in-person at the New World Center Box Office. Season subscriptions from $84 (plus fees) are still available for the Miami season at New World Center and Flex Passes are available in Fort Lauderdale. Discounted subscription packages and Flex Passes may be purchased by visiting: https://southfloridasymphony.org/2025-26-season - Or by calling: (954) 522-8445. Subscribers save up to 20% off single ticket prices and have first access to the best seats in the house. For additional information, visit: https://southfloridasymphony.org - Call: (954) 522-8445. Or email: info@southfloridasymphony.org . About South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina Maria Alfonso, the Fort Lauderdale-based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is celebrating its 28th Season. SFSO is dedicated to providing enriching cultural music experiences to residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative programming and transformative educational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communities, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of over 130,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO was recently named the first Partner in the Arts for The Parker by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored. For a performance schedule and season tickets, call: (954) 522-8445. Or visit: https://southfloridasymphony.org . Previous Next

Looking To Travel In 2026? - Your Next Trip Could Be Riskier Than You Think - Here's Why And How To Adapt By Christopher Elliott Jan 1, 2026 Colombia Has Been At The Top Of Seann Malloy's Bucket List For Years, So He Recently Started Planning A Solo Trip To Cartagena And Medellin. He Looked Forward To Sipping Tinto Coffee At A Cafe And Strolling The Beach At Playa Blanca. The destination seemed safe at first, but then came a U.S. State Department travel advisory warning of an increase in crime. And then he started to do more research, reading local crime reports and talking to Colombian expats on Reddit and Facebook. That's when he started to have second thoughts. "The tipping point was a pronounced surge in robbery and kidnapping of tourists in cities, much of which went unreported in the mainstream travel press," says Malloy, an attorney from Bethesda, Md. "I wondered: Would I feel safe walking alone at night, or taking a rideshare to a more casual location? The honest answer was no.” He canceled his trip. Malloy isn't alone. It's been a busy year for government travel warnings, but those notices don't address the personal risk factors to an individual traveler. And as a result, many travelers are wondering how to answer the question: Is the place I'm planning to visit safe? How do you determine if a destination is safe? As travelers start thinking about their 2026 trips, personal safety is coming into focus. Andrew Coggins, a Management and International Business Professor at Pace University, says determining how dangerous a place is can be tricky. It's a balance between your own risk tolerance and the conditions on the ground. But he says Malloy followed the right steps. "Some key indicators of dangerous destinations are unstable governments, civil unrest, and high crime," he explains. "These don't always get above the news radar, but watching and listening to vetted news sources with a global outlook can keep you abreast of what's going on around the world." Pro strategies for figuring out travel risk in 2026 Experts say travel next year will be fraught with risks, including crime to geopolitical turmoil. But there are ways to ensure you know the dangers before you commit to a trip. Cast a wide net. No single source is completely reliable, according to John Rose, Chief Risk Advisor for ALTOUR, a global corporate travel management company. "Safety is dynamic, so it’s essential to cross-reference data points, from crime trends to health infrastructure to geopolitical stability, rather than rely on a single source," he says. Check official and unofficial sources. Sure, the State Department is an official source, but don't stop there when looking for safety advice, says Harding Bush, Associate Director of Security Operations at Global Rescue. "To assess the safety of an international destination, start by examining the U.S. Department of State travel warnings and other countries’ travel ratings like the U.K. Foreign Commonwealth Office and Canadian travel advice and advisories," he says. Unofficial sources can be important as well, he notes. "Ask friends or colleagues who have recently visited the area whether it is considered stable, or if it is a conflict zone or near one, while also identifying any violent factions present.” Go social. "We always suggest monitoring the local consulates at your destination on Social Media, and do that prior to deciding on your trip," says John Gobbels, Chief Operating Officer of Medjet, a medical transport and security response membership program. "Most are very good about tweeting updates on everything from where protests might be happening, to upcoming strikes, areas to avoid and a lot of other general safety information." Gobbels says in an emergency, it’s often a source of real-time updates customized toward U.S. citizens. Be skeptical. "Crime statistics do not tell an accurate story as to safety in other countries," says Leonard Sipes, a Former Senior Specialist for Crime Prevention for the Department of Justice who now runs a site called Crime in America. His go-to resource for safety information abroad is the State Department Travel Advisories page. But again, don't rely on just one source. Watch for these red flags. Some signs should trigger an immediate cancellation, says Muhammed Fawas, a tour guide from Kerala, India, who regularly advises his clients on travel safety. "They include sudden government advisories or embassy evacuations, Social Media reports of unrest or large-scale protests, or insurance providers pulling coverage for a destination," he says. If you see those, it's time to rethink your travel plans. Beware of overly general advice. For example, last year, right at the start of Nepal’s peak travel season in late September, the southern part of the Kathmandu Valley experienced serious flooding. But it was in an area that tourists rarely visit, notes Naresh Dahal, Operations Manager at Everest Luxury Holidays, a tour operator. "Many travelers saw those news clips and assumed the entire country was unsafe," he says. "In reality, the actual trekking and cultural destinations remained completely unaffected." Look before you leap. Global volatility means more destinations can quickly shift in their risk profile. "We're seeing increased caution advised for areas impacted by geopolitical instability, rising crime rates, or active conflicts," notes Luis Ortega, Vice President of Risk Assessment for Allied Universal, a provider of private security services. For example, parts of the Caribbean, like Trinidad and Tobago and Mexico, can change at a moment's notice. Ortega says it's best to check before you travel, even if you did your research during the planning phase. One more thing: When you go abroad, consider registering for the State Department's STEP program, which will keep you informed if the security situation deteriorates. Risk is a personal decision As you look to your 2026 trips, beware of one-size-fits-all advice. For example, I interviewed travelers for this story who said they would never visit a communist country because they feel it's too dangerous. But I just visited Laos and China, and it was perfectly safe -- for me. The point is, risk is a personal decision, and the general advice experts will give you only provides a framework for making your choice. "Travelers can prioritize safety through thorough preparedness, taking proactive measures, and leveraging support where available," says Frank Harrison, Regional Security Director for the Americas at World Travel Protection. But the rest -- which includes some heavy lifting on research, contemplation and consulting with trusted sources -- is up to you. Determining the danger of a destination in 2026 hinges on more than government warnings or crime stats. It’s a mix of hyper-local insights, geopolitical awareness, and self-assessment. Experts stress that travelers must triangulate real-time Social Media updates, cross-border advisories, and on-the-ground expat accounts to navigate risks like sudden unrest or unreliable data. Even meticulous planning can’t guarantee your safety. Volatile regions demand last-minute reassessments, while personal comfort with uncertainty varies widely. The answer isn’t a list of “no-go” zones, but rather a framework for balancing curiosity with caution. Christopher Elliott is an Author, Consumer Advocate, and Journalist. He Founded Elliott Advocacy, a NonProfit Organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can reach him here or email him at: chris@elliott.org . Previous Next