‘Tis the Season to Celebrate at Gulfstream Park Village: Symphony in Lights is Back for Another Dazzling Holiday Season Fri Nov 10 2023 17:18:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Power Of Curiosity: Building More Engaged Learners By Feature Impact Jul 30, 2026 Young Children Are Naturally Curious. They Ask Endless Questions, Investigate Their Surroundings And Constantly Test How The World Works. While That Curiosity Can Leave Parents Feeling Exhausted Or Overwhelmed, It’s One Of The Most Important Drivers Of Early Learning And Development. Curiosity helps children build confidence, develop critical thinking skills and become more engaged learners. Dr. Lauren Loquasto, Senior Vice President and Chief Academic Officer at The Goddard School, and Mary-Alice Moore, President of Highlights for Children, share why curiosity matters and how parents can nurture it. Why Curiosity Matters Curiosity is the engine that drives learning for young children. When they are interested in a topic, they become more motivated to explore, ask questions and seek solutions. That process strengthens important skills such as attention, working memory, flexible thinking and problem-solving. It also helps develop confidence. For young learners, confidence does not come from always knowing the answer; it comes from believing they can find it. Children who are encouraged to explore their interests and investigate new ideas learn that questions are valuable and discovery is rewarding. These experiences lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Curiosity Evolves as Children Grow Curiosity looks different at each stage of development. For infants, it’s largely sensory. They learn by touching, tasting, listening and observing people and objects around them. Toddlers often express curiosity through movement and repetition. Climbing, stacking, dumping, filling and repeating the same activity helps them understand how things work and builds their sense of control. Preschoolers and kindergarteners become natural investigators. Their frequent “why” and “how” questions reflect a growing desire to understand relationships, solve problems and make sense of new experiences and the world around them. As children grow, the role of adults evolves as well. Parents move from primarily protecting and guiding children to fostering environments that encourage exploration and independent thinking. Follow Your Child’s Interests One of the most effective ways to nurture curiosity is to pay attention to what naturally captures your child’s attention. Whether they’re fascinated by vehicles, animals or building structures, those interests can become powerful learning opportunities. When children are engaged in topics they enjoy, attention and persistence often develop organically. Consider what causes your child to lose track of time. Those interests provide important clues about what motivates and excites them. Rather than rushing to provide answers, encourage deeper thinking by asking open-ended questions that invite them to explore their own ideas and observations. Parents Don’t Need All the Answers Many parents feel pressure to have answers for every question their child asks. In reality, one of the best responses is often “I don’t know. Let’s find out together.” This models curiosity and shows your child that learning continues throughout life. It also transforms questions into shared experiences and opportunities for discovery. Encourage your child to remain engaged and curious using simple phrases such as: • “That’s an interesting question.” • “What do you think?” • “Let’s investigate.” If you’re unable to respond immediately, it’s important to acknowledge the question and return to it later. Following up communicates your child’s ideas and questions are valuable. Setting Boundaries Curiosity should be encouraged, but safe boundaries remain essential. When children become interested in something unsafe, simply saying “no” may stop the behavior, but it does little to support learning. Instead, explain why something is unsafe and redirect curiosity toward an appropriate alternative. For example, if your child wants to explore knives, explain knives can hurt people then offer safe cooking tools or supervised kitchen activities to investigate instead. Using Technology Technology can play a positive role in nurturing curiosity when it’s used to extend real-world experiences rather than replace them. After spotting a ladybug at the park, for example, a child might use videos or age-appropriate digital resources to learn more about insects. The real-world encounter sparks curiosity and technology helps deepen learning. By listening, encouraging exploration and demonstrating curiosity yourself, you can help your child develop skills that extend far beyond the early years. For more parenting guidance, visit the  Parent Resource Center at: www.GoddardSchool.com . Visit: https://shop.highlights.com/ for magazines, books and resources for parents and educators. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock Previous Next

Transform Holiday Leftovers - Reinvent Your Holiday Extras Through Fresh Takes on Classic Dishes Family Features November 28, 2024 Share Once your holiday feast comes to pass, you're almost certain to find your refrigerator stuffed with leftovers. However, that doesn't mean you want to eat the same meal again and again in the days that follow. The star of many seasonal celebrations, Turkey can be reused in a variety of post-holiday dishes to cut down on food waste and create fresh new meals your whole family can enjoy. Featuring a unique blend of 100% Natural Chili Peppers, Lime and Sea Salt, TajÌn pairs perfectly with Turkey, making it a go-to for creative leftovers. Gone are the days of simply reheating Turkey and Stuffing or making a Turkey Sandwich. Instead, reinvent your holiday extras through fresh takes on classic dishes like this comforting Leftover Holiday Biscuit Pot Pie or Spicy Leftover Turkey Carnitas Tacos. Leftover Holiday Biscuit Pot Pie Total time: 45 minutes Servings: 4 Biscuits: 1 1/2 Cups of All-Purpose Flour 2 Teaspoons of Baking Powder 2 1/2 Teaspoons of Sugar 1/4 Teaspoon of Salt 2 Teaspoons of Cream Of Tartar 1/2 Cup of cold Unsalted Butter 2/3 Cup of Buttermilk 1 Tablespoon of Butter, melted Turkey Pot Pie Filling: 1/2 Cup of Turkey Fat 1 1/2 Cups of diced Onion 1 1/2 Cups of diced Carrots 1 1/2 Cups of diced Celery 1 Bay Leaf 1 Tablespoon of Minced Garlic 1 Tablespoon of Chopped Thyme 1 Tablespoon of Diamond Crystal Coarse Salt 1 Tablespoon of Coarse Black Pepper 1 Cup of All-Purpose Flour, divided 8 Cups of cold Turkey Stock TajÌn Clasico Seasoning, to taste about 1 Tablespoon 6 Cups of leftover cooked Turkey, chopped To make the Biscuits: In a mixing bowl, combine the Flour, the Baking Powder, the Sugar, the Salt and the Cream of Tartar. Grate the Butter and mix it with the dry ingredients. Carefully add the Buttermilk and mix everything until it is incorporated. Fold it over 5-6 times, roll it out and cut it into 10-12 rounds. Place the cut Biscuits on a floured surface. Refrigerate it for 30 minutes. To make the Turkey Pot Pie Filling: Preheat the oven to 375 F. Heat a large pot over high heat and add the Turkey Fat. Add the Onions, the Carrots, the Celery, the Bay Leaf, the Garlic, the Thyme, the Salt and the Pepper and gently sweat it. Add 1/2 Cup of Flour and cook it for 2-3 minutes. Add the Turkey Stock, 2 cups at a time, allowing it to thicken before adding more. In a bowl, mix the remaining Flour with the Turkey. Add the Turkey to the pot, bring to a simmer until it is thickened. Add the Seasoning, to taste. Add the Pot Pie Filling to the casserole dish and gently place the Biscuits closely together on top. Brush the Biscuits with the Melted Butter and bake them for 25-30 minutes. Remove the Pot Pie from the oven and cool it for 10-15 minutes before serving. Leftover Turkey Carnitas Tacos Total time: 25 minutes Servings: 2 (2-3 tacos each) 4-6 Garlic Cloves, peeled and separated 1 Pinch of Salt 1/2 Cup of Fresh Bitter Orange Juice or Fresh Lime Juice with Fresh Orange Juice combo 1/2 Cup of Olive Oil 1 Teaspoon of TajÌn Clasico Seasoning 1 Cup of leftover Turkey, shredded 1 Cup Duck Fat, Ghee or High Smoke Point Oil of choice 4-6 Tortillas Toppings (optional): • Pico de Gallo • Pickled Onions • Cilantro • Pomegranate Seeds • Avocado With a mortar and pestle, crush together the Garlic Cloves and the Salt, make the Paste and place it in a medium bowl. Stir in the Juice, the Olive Oil and the Seasoning. Fold the Mojo into the shredded Turkey meat. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over high heat, melt the Duck Fat and wait until it forms a wave. Add the Turkey, in batches, stirring often, until the meat turns light golden brown, then lower heat to medium. Turn off heat. Heat up the Tortillas, place the Turkey Carnitas on top and add the Pico de Gallo, the Pickled Onions, the Cilantro, the Pomegranate Seeds or the Avocado as desired. Note: Once browned in the Duck Fat, the Carnitas can be stored in the Fat overnight and reheated over low heat to melt the Fat and warm the Carnitas. For more holiday recipe inspirations, visit: www.tajin.com/us < Previous News Next News >

Governor DeSantis Deploys Additional Personnel, Assets to Southern Florida and the Keys Fri Mar 22 2024 16:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Cashing In On Self-Care: $10,000 New Year Weight-Loss Challenge - HealthyWage Launches Nationwide Free-To-Enter 40-day "Love Your Body Weight Loss Challenge" Thu Jan 23 2025 16:45:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Ruff Rental: Florida Pet Owners Prepared To Pay A $5,000 Premium To Rent With Their Pets June 15, 2023 Share Having a pet, and renting a property, poses challenges. Landlords are often reluctant to allow them – barking, shredded cushions, scratched furniture being some of the reasons. Renters have it tough enough as it is, with landlords always having the upper hand in the situation, so it seems a shame that pets are often not made to feel welcome in a rented property. A survey of 3,000 pet-owning tenants by www.AgentAdvice.com has revealed the extent to which they are prepared to pay to live with their pets. The survey found that 82% of pet owners would be willing to pay an additional fee to keep their furry friend in the rental property with them. The average Florida pet-owning renter would be prepared to pay a whopping $5,006 annually to live with their pet! However, the study also revealed that a significant proportion want the best of both worlds - that is - to continue living with their pets, but not having to pay any premium in order to do so. www.AgentAdvice.com discovered that in Florida, 19% of pet-owning renters admit to not disclosing this to their landlords (equating to 504,684 illegal pets) - that’s a lot of barking to try and cough over, or scratched table legs to try and cover up. The guiltiest pet owners are in Vermont, with the percentage of households hiding illegal pets reaching 50%, or 36,791 furry friends. The most law-abiding pet-owning renters live in Indiana, where the figure is just 4%, or 32,400 pets. The research also revealed that two thirds thought it was fair for landlords to ask tenants to leave the property if it turned out they had pets which were not permitted. But sadly, the challenge of finding a rental property which allows pets discourages 58% of people from getting a pet if they are renters. "Caring for a pet is a responsibility that requires commitment and dedication, yet the current rental market often makes it challenging for pet owners to find suitable and affordable accommodations. Discriminatory pet policies and limited pet-friendly options not only place an undue burden on renters, but also deny them the joy and companionship that pets bring to their lives" says Chris Heller of AgentAdvice.com. www.AgentAdvice.com have provided 4 tips for convincing your landlord to allow you to have a pet in your rental: 1. Talk To Your Landlord Getting permission to have a pet as a renter can be difficult as landlords may include a "No Pets" clause in the lease to maintain control over how many pets are in their properties. However, if you have a good relationship with your landlord and are a responsible tenant, you may be able to persuade them to allow a pet. Providing documentation on your prospective pet's health history and training plans can strengthen your case. Many landlords will make exceptions for excellent tenants who are positive contributors to the rental community. 2. Be Flexible To convince your landlord to allow a pet in your rental, it's important to be flexible with your pet choices. Many landlords have restrictions on the type or size of pets allowed due to noise or potential damage. If your landlord approves a pet with certain restrictions, consider being more selective in your choice of pet. However, if you have a good relationship with your landlord, it's possible they may make exceptions for a responsible and reliable tenant. So don't be afraid to have a conversation about the possibility of bringing in a larger pet. 3. Providing Documentation If you're a pet owner looking to move into a new rental property, providing additional documentation can help show your landlord that you're a responsible pet owner. This may include a letter from your current landlord, vet records, training records, and spay/neuter records. By demonstrating that your pet is well-behaved and non-disruptive, you can alleviate any concerns your landlord may have about potential property damage or disturbance to other renters. 4. Offer To Pay More To convince your landlord to allow a pet, offering to pay extra in the form of a deposit or monthly charge can show that you are committed to being a responsible pet owner. While some pet-friendly rentals have upfront policies regarding deposits or rent surcharges, it's possible to convince some landlords who don't allow pets to make exceptions if you offer to pay extra. However, pet deposits can be expensive, so be sure to have the necessary budget before making the offer. < Previous News Next News >

Seize The Day: Sign Up For The Newsies Day Camp At The Broward Center Thu Jun 22 2023 16:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Island City Stage Celebrates 15th Anniversary Season - New Season Features A Signature Camp Revival, A Nostalgic Broadway Musical And An Off-Broadway Salacious Satire Plus A World Premiere South Florida Sun Times May 28, 2026 Island City Stage, An Award-Winning Theatre Company, Will Celebrate Its 15th Anniversary Season With A Captivating And Eclectic Collection Of Works. The 2026 - 2027 Season Features A Signature Camp Revival, A Nostalgic Broadway Musical, A World Premiere Of A Biting Political Satire By A South Florida Artist, An Off-Broadway Study In Murderous Mayhem, And A Timely Classic Play. This Season Is Designed To Engage Audiences Through Cryptic Calamity, Familial Yearning, Hilarious Hijinks And Dramatic Royal Scheming. "As we approach our 15th Season, I am reminded about why the stories we tell are so important,” said Andy Rogow, Artistic Director of Island City Stage. “15 years ago, marriage equality was just being made legal, acceptance of LGBTQ+ community members in high schools, workplaces and religious institutions was becoming the norm rather than the outlier, and it became possible to build a theatre company rooted in the LGBTQ+ experience. Fast forward to today as LGBTQ+ acceptance is trending downward and public policies are actively trying to silence and censor our stories and existence. Island City Stage provides a vital refuge and megaphone that encourages our community and allies to find joy and renewal in sitting together in a dark space and sharing together in the delight and power of the stories we share.” Since its inception, Island City Stage has been committed to sharing stories of universal interest and engaging diverse audiences with entertaining and inspiring productions and programs, often exploring the LGBTQ+ culture. This season’s entertaining lineup promises outrageous theatrical moments, imaginative productions and extraordinary shared experiences that only Island City Stage can create! Island City Stage’s 2026-27 Season: Who Killed Joan Crawford? Directed by Michael Leeds Thursday, October 1st, 2026 - Sunday, October 25th, 2026 “Camp, cocktails, and carnage… just the way Joan would have liked it.” On a dark, stormy night in 1993, five men arrive at a cabin for a soap star's surprise birthday party. Each guest has been asked to dress as the birthday boy’s favorite actress, Joan Crawford, in one of her signature roles… and the results aren't pretty! As they wait for the star, the five "Joans" begin drinking and dishing. Dark secrets emerge and soon there’s one Joan less ... and then another... leaving the remaining Joans — and the audience — asking, “Who Killed Joan Crawford?!” A revival of Island City Stage’s 2016 hit world premiere. Grey Gardens (The Musical) Music by Scott Frankel | Lyrics by Michael Korie | Book by Doug Wright Directed by Andy Rogow Thursday, January 14th, 2027 - Sunday, February 14th, 2027 “She was the girl who had everything… except a way out.” Based on the 1975 American documentary film of the same name by Albert and David Maysles, this musical follows Big Edie and Little Edie Bouvier Beale, the eccentric aunt and cousin of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Once bright names on the social register, now they live in Grey Gardens, an East Hampton estate overrun by cats and plagued by memories. This often haunting and at-times hilarious musical tracks the two faded socialites from life of the party to isolation, from glamor to grime. An investigation into a very singular mother/daughter relationship, Grey Gardens brings a slice of upper-crust history to vibrant life. Pegged (World Premiere) Written by Hannah Benitez | Directed by Andy Rogow Thursday, March 4th, 2027 - Sunday, March 28th, 2027 “Sex, love, and politics… It’s all a pain in the ass.” After an attempt at pegging goes wrong, a hetero couple’s life collapses into chaos. A local political scandal may have more to do with their sex lives than they realize, testing the boundaries of their newly fissured relationship in this world premiere jet-black political comedy by South Florida-born Latina writer, Hannah Benitez (Gringolandia, For Closure!, Dike) Messy White Gays Written by Drew Droege | Directed by Christopher Michaels Thursday, May 20th, 2027 - Sunday, June 13th, 2027 “From ‘we need limes’ to ‘we need an alibi’... and all before brunch.” It’s Sunday morning in Hell’s Kitchen. Brecken and Caden have just murdered their boyfriend and stuffed his body into a Jonathan Adler credenza. Unfortunately, they’ve also invited friends over for brunch. And to make matters worse… they’re out of limes! Feel bad for them! In the super-satirical Messy White Gays, writer Drew Droege (Bright Colors and Bold Patterns), shines a harsh overhead light on the gaping pores of over-privileged White Gaydom, revealing what happens when throuples crumble, neighbors bicker, and rich and p(r)etty clash with hot and dumb. The Lion in Winter Written by James Goldman | Directed by Michael Leeds Thursday, July 8th, 2027 - Sunday, August 1st, 2027 “A kingdom hangs in the balance… and everyone wants the sword.” Sibling rivalry, adultery, and dungeons. The Lion in Winter is a modern-day classic. Comedic in tone yet dramatic in action, the play tells the story of the Plantagenet family, who are locked in a free-for-all of competing ambitions to inherit a kingdom. The queen, and wealthiest woman in the world, Eleanor of Aquitaine, has been kept in prison since raising an army against her husband, King Henry II. Centering around the inner conflicts of the royal family as they fight over both a kingdom and King Henry’s paramour during the Christmas of 1183, as Eleanor says, “Every family has its ups and downs,” and this royal family is no exception. As part of its commitment to nurturing up-and-coming talent, Island City Stage will be bringing back its “Comedy After Hours” series which features late night performances from South Florida's best stand-up comedians who will bring their uniquely warped versions of reality and offbeat humor to the theatre. In addition, ICS will introduce a reading series of new plays written by playwrights around the country. More details will be announced at a later date. Individual show tickets start at $50 per show. This season will offer two Flexpass options. The Flexpass5 ($250) offers five tickets that can be used all for one show or one for every show (no processing fees) and $5 off additional tickets purchased (a $50 savings). The Flexpass3 ($150) offers three tickets that can be used all for one show or one for every show (no processing fees) and $5 off additional tickets purchased (a $30 savings). Discounts are available for groups. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.islandcitystage.org . Call: (954) 928-9800. Or: emailboxoffice@islandcitystage.org . Follow Island City Stage on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/IslandCityStage . And on Instagram at: @islandcitystage. About Island City Stage Founded in 2012, Island City Stage is a professional theater committed to sharing stories of universal interest, engaging diverse audiences with entertaining, challenging, and inspiring productions and programs, often exploring the LGBTQ+ culture. These shows are brought to life on stage through the talents of professional artists whose credits include Broadway, Off Broadway, national tours, major regional theaters, film and television. Island City Stage offers an intimate setting with six rows of stadium seating to foster a feeling of inclusion and participation in each theatrical event. Island City Stage is a 501 (c) 3 NonProfit organization. It is located at 2304 North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, Florida 33305. For tickets and more information, please call: (954) 928-9800. Or visit: www.islandcitystage.org . Previous Next

Fuel Up For Summer Fun: Dietitian-Approved, Family-Friendly Healthy Recipes Wed May 24 2023 16:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Parking, Masks & The Budget Thu Sep 16 2021 04:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Artists In Residence Class: Bailey Contemporary Arts Center Initiative Features Outstanding Community Programs Fri Aug 23 2024 16:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Still Figuring Out Holiday Plans? - Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort Is The Warm Weather Getaway You Need Aventura Digest Dec 18, 2025 Winter’s Icy Grip Getting You Down? Or If That’s Not A Factor, Just Feel Like Getting Out Of Town For A Few Days To Enjoy Spectacular Sunsets And A Charming Laid-Back Ambiance? The Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort Has You Covered, With Rates Starting Under $300/Night Christmas Week. A Hidden Gem, The Shorebreak Is A Hip Boutique Hotel Located A Short Walk From The Beach And The Atlantic Ocean, A World Away From The Bustle Of A1A With All The Benefits Of A Beachside Getaway. Boasting Mid-Century Design, Two Pools, Lush Foliage Throughout The Grounds, And Plenty Of Spots To Kick Back And Relax, The Three-Story, 96-Room Resort Combines A Relaxed Ambiance With Attentive Service And Unparalleled Dining, Imbibing And Entertainment Options. Guests can book room packages that include breakfast daily or the Sea the City package which includes water taxi vouchers for guests to explore the city and learn why Fort Lauderdale Beach has earned its nickname “Venice of America,” for its more than 300 miles of canals and waterways. Dine at coastal Italian favorite La Fuga with smooth jazz on the weekends, enjoy Kimpton’s daily Social Hour (complimentary wine for guests), and visit the inviting Escape Rooftop Bar located poolside with stellar intracoastal views, a daily Sunset Hour special, vibrant cocktails and tasty tapas. Beach chairs and bikes are included, as is daily yoga and fitness center. Fort Lauderdale Activities + Adventures With more than seven miles of incredible beaches, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal treasure — and Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort is the gem that sits in the midst of it all. With a prime location just one block from Fort Lauderdale Beach, it provides a bird’s-eye view of the city’s boating life. And just beyond the doors is the burgeoning downtown — a polished mix of shops, restaurants, historical attractions and entertainment venues — prompting families, vacationers and business travelers to put aside their flip-flops and soak up the city’s sophisticated side. So go ahead and explore beyond the beachfront. There’s so much to see in this city that has more waterways than Venice, Italy. Savor The Season: This season, indulge in festive coastal Italian cuisine with La Fuga’s special holiday menus. From a warm and inviting Thanksgiving feast, to elegant Christmas dining, and a vibrant New Year’s Eve celebration, each menu is thoughtfully crafted to make your holiday moments unforgettable. Join us for a culinary experience that captures the spirit of the season. Food & Wine Festival 2026: Happening January 19th - 25th 2025, and located a short walk from the Kimpton Shorebreak, this multi-day event brings together top chefs, winemakers, and local flavors for a relaxed yet elevated tasting experience. Whether you're in town for business or a beachside escape, it's a great way to explore the best of the region's food and wine scene. The Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort is located 2900 Riomar Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. For more information and to book rooms, visit: www.shorebreakfortlauderdale.com . Or call: (954) 908-7301. Follow on Instagram: @ShorebreakResortFtl Previous Next