Melissa Errico Crowns The Season: Aventura Broadway Concert Series Finale Thu Mar 07 2024 17:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

How Do You Treat Others? Take A Different Strategy For Different Results Thu Jun 23 2022 04:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Enough Is Enough: Shield Kids From Sexually Explicit Content - The Supreme Court’s Need To Uphold Critical Common Sense Age Verification Law Thu Jan 23 2025 17:15:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Aventura Celebrates 28 Years of Incorporation: City of Aventura Commemorates Its Annual Founders Day at Gulfstream Park By Joyce R. Forchion - LOVE Aventura November 10, 2023 Share Orchids are traditionally regarded as the gift of choice for married couples celebrating their 28th wedding anniversary. Along with the flowers’ connotation of beauty, Chinese folklore suggests that they are also symbolic of the constructs of vitality, longevity, and perfection. If these qualities personified one of South Florida’s stellar cities, Aventura would be first on the list. On Sunday, November 12th, hundreds of residents commemorated the City’s 28th year of incorporation at Gulfstream Park to accommodate attendees. Accustomed to thriving as a municipality from pioneering achievements in community building, economic development, and infrastructure innovation, neighbors were in celebration mode during the family-friendly afternoon full of live stage shows during the STAR Talent Competition, assorted snacks along Food Truck Row, pint-sized rides in Toddler Town, and other whimsical games and prizes for all ages. Recognized as one of South Florida’s quintessential locales, Aventura thrives as a neighborhood where family values, comfortable luxury, business culture, and social offerings intersect. Those who are new to town might be unfamiliar with the rich history of the City of Excellence, which is the brainchild of Turnberry Associates magnates Don Soffer and George Joshua Berlin, who conceptualized and sketched its general layout over a brief table conversation. What was once a mangrove swamp in the 1950's has transformed into one of the world’s model suburban cities. Among other notable achievements, the City birthed one of the nation’s most prolific shopping malls, which recently expanded with the inclusion of the Esplanade wing and a pedestrian bridge leading to the Brightline Station. Aventura’s rich history takes center stage when honoring its leaders who established the City’s solid foundation. Such an example took place during the annual Veterans Day ceremony at Government Center the morning of November 11th, when dignitaries and guests paid homage to men and women of valor who served in the United States Armed Forces. Year after year, the City upholds its mantle by acknowledging the contributions of those who came before us, whose legacies continue to pave the way for families to make memories within the city limits. Aventura’s metamorphosis has elevated its public profile to the world stage, branding the Miami-Dade County location as one of the most desirable residential choices for global citizens, in addition to its emergence as a destination for holiday-themed events and programs. On November 23rd, International Special Attractions will launch its super-sized Snow Carnival at Aventura Mall after the attraction premiered in Las Vegas, creating a winter wonderland theme park headlined by 350 tons of real snow. In December, the Community Recreation Center will offer a two-week Winter Camp for children interested in “edutainment-style” activities, basketball, and dance while Founders Park will be hosting a Tennis Camp. Until next year, we salute Aventura’s 28 years of progress and eagerly anticipate what’s in store for the future. LOVE, AVENTURA. A column celebrating the heart, soul and culture of our community. < Previous News Next News >

2021 Business Woman of The Year PROFILES April 24, 2022 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 has accomplished that goal and so much more during her career and on March 4th she will be recognized by The Greater Hollywood Chamber of Commerce as the “2021 Business Woman of the Year” at The Diplomat Beach Resort. She has also, on behalf of the 2021 Nominations Committee of the Broward, Palm Beach and St. Lucie Realtors, been appointed by the Board of Directors to serve as a Regional Board Member on the South Broward Board for a two year term. Her talent, dedication and leadership qualities have made these accolades all possible. Years ago 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 22 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 cover the Tri County area, 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 sale,” 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 Realty 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: https://costabellarealtygroup.com < Previous News Next News >

Are We The Proverbial Frog In The Boiling Pot? Totalitarian Paranoia Run Amok: Pandemics, Lockdowns & Martial Law By John W. Whitehead & Nisha Whitehead February 3, 2022 Share “Totalitarian Paranoia runs deep in American Society and it now inhabits the highest levels of government.” - Professor Henry Giroux Once upon a time, there was a government so paranoid about its hold on power that it treated everyone and everything as a threat and a reason to expand its powers. Unfortunately, the citizens of this nation believed everything they were told by their government and they suffered for it. When terrorists attacked the country and the government passed massive laws aimed at paving the way for a surveillance state, the people believed it was done merely to keep them safe. The few who disagreed were labeled traitors. When the government waged costly preemptive wars on foreign countries, insisting it was necessary to protect the nation, the citizens believed it. And when the government brought the weapons and tactics of war home to use against the populace, claiming it was just a way to recycle old equipment, the people believed that too. The few who disagreed were labeled unpatriotic. When the government spied on its own citizens, claiming they were looking for terrorists hiding among them, the people believed it. And when the government began tracking the citizenry’s movements, monitoring their spending, snooping on their social media and surveying them about their habits—supposedly in an effort to make their lives more efficient—the people believed that, too. The few who disagreed were labeled paranoid. When the government allowed private companies to take over the Prison Industry and agreed to keep the jails full, justifying it as a cost-saving measure, the people believed them. And when the government started arresting and jailing people for minor infractions, claiming the only way to keep communities safe was to be tough on crime, the people believed that too. The few who disagreed were labeled soft on crime. When the government hired crisis actors to take part in disaster drills, never alerting the public to which “disasters” were staged, the people genuinely believed they were under attack. And when the government insisted it needed greater powers to prevent such attacks from happening again, the people believed that too. The few who disagreed were told to shut up or leave the country. When the government started carrying out covert military drills around the country, insisting it was necessary to train the troops for foreign combat, most of the people believed them. The few who disagreed, fearing that perhaps all was not what it seemed, were shouted down as conspiracy theorists and quacks. When government leaders locked down the nation, claiming it was the only way to prevent an unknown virus from sickening the populace, the people believed them and complied with the mandates and quarantines. The few who resisted or voiced skepticism about the government’s edicts were denounced as selfish and dangerous and silenced on social media. When the government expanded its war on terrorism to include domestic terrorists, the people believed that only violent extremists would be targeted. Little did they know that anyone who criticizes the government can be considered an extremist. By the time the government began using nationalized police and the military to routinely lockdown the nation, the citizenry had become so acclimated to such states of emergency that they barely even noticed the prison walls that had grown up around them. Now every fable has a moral and the moral of this story is: if it looks like trouble and it smells like trouble, you can bet there’s trouble afoot. Unfortunately, the government has fully succeeded in recalibrating our general distaste for anything that smacks too overtly of tyranny. After all, like the proverbial boiling frogs, the government has been gradually acclimating us to the specter of a police state for years now: Militarized Police. Riot Squads. Camouflage Gear. Black Uniforms. Armored Vehicles. Mass Arrests. Pepper Spray. Tear Gas. Batons. Strip Searches. Surveillance Cameras. Kevlar Vests. Drones. Lethal Weapons. Less-Than-Lethal Weapons unleashed with deadly force. Rubber Bullets. Water Cannons. Stun Grenades. Arrests of Journalists. Crowd Control Tactics. Intimidation Tactics. Brutality. This is how you prepare a populace to accept a Police State willingly, even gratefully. You don’t scare them by making dramatic changes. Rather, you acclimate them slowly to their prison walls. Persuade the citizenry that their prison walls are merely intended to keep them safe and out of danger. Desensitize them to violence, acclimate them to a military presence in their communities and persuade them that only a militarized government can alter the seemingly hopeless trajectory of the nation. It’s happening already. This is Psychological Warfare at its most sophisticated. Almost every national security threat that the government has claimed greater powers in order to fight—all the while undermining the liberties of the American citizenry—has been manufactured in one way or another by the government. What we’ve seen play out before us is more than mere Totalitarian Paranoia run amok. What has unfolded over the past few years has been a test to see how well “we the people” have assimilated the government’s lessons in compliance, fear and Police State Tactics; a test to see how quickly “we the people” will march in lockstep with the government’s dictates, no questions asked and a test to see how little resistance “we the people” will offer up to the government’s power grabs when made in the name of national security. Most critically of all, this has been a test to see whether the Constitution—and our commitment to the principles enshrined in the Bill of Rights—could survive a national crisis and true State of Emergency. We have failed the test abysmally. We have also made it way too easy for a government that has been working hard to destabilize to lockdown the nation. Suddenly, the events of recent years begin to make sense: the invasive surveillance, the extremism reports, the civil unrest, the protests, the shootings, the bombings, the military exercises and active shooter drills, the color-coded alerts and threat assessments, the fusion centers, the transformation of local police into extensions of the military, the distribution of military equipment and weapons to local police forces, the government databases containing the names of dissidents and potential troublemakers. The government is systematically locking down the nation and shifting us into martial law. This is how you prepare a populace to accept a Police State willingly, even gratefully. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, it’s time to wake up and stop being deceived by government propaganda. < Previous News Next News >

A Motown & R&B Journey Through The Decades: The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Heats Up This July June 20, 2024 Share As part of the City of Aventura’s Aventura Arts & Cultural Center Summer Concert Series, “The Great American SoulBook” promises to take audiences on a journey through decades of Motown, R&B and other iconic soulful musical chart-toppers on Saturday, July 13th at 8:00 p.m. What Is Soul Music? In the vast landscape of music, few genres possess the captivating allure and profound impact of soul music. Embarking on a journey through its rich tapestry unveils not just a genre, but a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on the very fabric of music history. Rooted in the vibrant African American community of the 1950’s United States, soul music emerged as a revolutionary force, transcending boundaries and captivating the hearts of listeners worldwide. Drawing inspiration from Gospel Music, Soul found its distinctive voice through the fusion of spirited rhythms and poignant secular lyrics. This fusion birthed a sound that echoed the joys, struggles, and triumphs of the human experience. Encompassing a spectrum of influences, soul music resonates with aficionados of various musical genres, from the melancholic strains of the Blues to the electrifying beats of Rock n' Roll. Its infectious melodies and heartfelt lyricism transcend mere entertainment, stirring emotions and igniting passions in equal measure. At its core, soul music is a celebration of the human spirit, expressed through the raw intensity of improvised vocals, the infectious energy of call-and-response, and the lush harmonies of choirs. Each note, each beat, is infused with an undeniable sense of authenticity and soulfulness, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in its embrace. Beyond its musical prowess, Soul Music stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the African American community, forging a path of cultural significance that reverberates through the annals of history. From its domination of the U.S. Music Charts in the '60s to its resounding reception in the United Kingdom, Soul Music transcends geographical boundaries, uniting souls in a shared appreciation for its transformative power. As the '70s dawned, Soul Music continued to evolve, branching out into new territories such as Funk, further solidifying its place in the pantheon of musical greatness. In essence, Soul Music transcends mere notes and rhythms; it embodies the very essence of humanity, weaving a tapestry of emotions that resonate deeply within us all. So, the next time you find yourself swaying to the rhythm of a soulful melody, remember that you're not just listening to music — you're experiencing the soulful heartbeat of a cultural phenomenon. The Great American SoulBook Performed by the high-energy American Soul Band of seven singers and six musicians, The Great American SoulBook will turn up the summer heat with groovin’ and dancin’ music from the ‘60s through the ‘90s and beyond. In The Great American SoulBook, Lead Singer Deanna Carroll is backed by four choreographed male singers and two dynamic female singers. Together, they bring to life music of The Temptations, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Whitney Houston, Boyz II Men, The Four Tops, The Isley Brothers, Aretha Franklin, The Supremes, Luther Vandross, Sam and Dave, James Brown, Anita Baker, Babyface, Peobo Bryson, R. Kelly and many more. In addition to touring as Diana Ross in Lady Supreme, Carroll’s career credits include recording backing vocals for Jazz Saxophonist Paula Atherton, British Sensation Joss Stone and Bobby Wilson in his tribute to his legendary late father, R&B/Soul Singer Jackie Wilson. Carroll has also been featured in live television performances as a backing vocalist for Vitamin C and performed with Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Little Anthony and Darlene Love, among others. Got Fun? This is it! This is feel good music, that will have you singing along and on your feet, dancing to hits that will appeal to many generations of music lovers. This is a band that will never forget its roots in Motown and Classic R&B, but continues the audience's journey forward, as they pay homage to the most recent decades of soulful hits made famous by the next generations of superstars. American Soul brings the party to a concert near you...don't miss! Following “The Great American SoulBook,” the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center’s Summer Concert Series presents a tribute to rock royalty with “She Will Rock You! Starring Stephanie Hodgdon” on August 10th and the Smooth Bossa Nova harmonies of “Brazilian Voices Amazonas, The Rhythm of Nature” on September 14th. Tickets for “The Great American SoulBook” are on sale now. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or at: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-Square-Foot, 330-seat waterfront complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages. For an evening filled with soulful melodies and unforgettable memories, mark your calendars for "The Great American SoulBook" and experience the magic of music come alive. < Previous News Next News >

The Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami: (MOCA) Offers Robust Public Programming Throughout October Thu Oct 06 2022 04:02:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Become An Involved Citizen: Your Chance To Shape Hallandale Beach’s Future Thu Aug 15 2024 16:16:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Open Dialogues: Black Voices | Black Stories Film Wins Emmy Award Wed Dec 13 2023 17:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Global Warming and Climate Change: Hallandale Beach Is Examining Their Emergency Operational Plans Thu Jul 04 2024 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

5 O'Clock Somewhere Fest - Lineup Includes Alan Jackson, Ella Langley, Old Dominion And More South Florida Sun Times Apr 9, 2026 Country Music Icon Alan Jackson Is Spearheading A New One-Of-A-Kind Festival Experience In The Sunshine State – The First-Ever Alan Jackson’s Five O’Clock Somewhere Fest! The Inaugural, Multi-Day Event Blending World-Class Music, Coastal Culture, And Elevated Hospitality Will Take Place From Friday, June 12th, 2026 - Saturday, June 13th, 2026 At The Palm Beaches Waterfront Commons In West Palm Beach, Florida. Ella Langley, Old Dominion and Jimmy Buffet’s Coral Reefer Band lead the festival’s star-packed performance lineup, which also includes Dylan Scott, Clint Black, Shenandoah, John Anderson, Rodney Atkins, Jammy Buffet (a Jimmy Buffett Tribute), Allen Stone and more. Comedian Dusty Slay and JD Spradlin of Sirius XM’s Radio Margaritaville will host the event. Festival originator Jackson played a direct role in its creation and conceptualization. “I’ve gotten to enjoy so many experiences at my concerts over the years,” he says. “I’m not touring any more, but I like the idea of still being able to give people an opportunity to have a ‘Good Time’ and enjoy some great country music while they do,” he adds, invoking the spirit of another hit from his career. Jackson is excited to welcome fans to Five O’Clock Somewhere Festas he launches the event…and he’ll mark the end of his touring career in late June at a sold-out stadium concert in Nashville. The festival goal is to capture the vibe of the triple-platinum, CMA and ACM Award winning song that spent more than two months at the top of the charts in the Summer of 2003. The popularity of “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” has endured ever since, as people far-and-wide continue to embrace its carefree attitude and celebratory vibe. The festival’s first-year location not only reflects all that – it’s the region where Jackson filmed the classic music video for the song and where he once had a home, enjoying the area’s coastal lifestyle, boating culture, and vibrant community that makes South Florida unique. “After 15 years of working with Alan, I’ve seen how much the beach lifestyle and that ‘Five O’Clock Somewhere’ mindset mean to him,” says longtime Alan Jackson Tour Manager and Peachtree Entertainment’s CEO Nathan Baugh. “It’s not just a song – it’s how he lives. This festival is a natural extension of that. At Peachtree, we focus on creating real, memorable experiences, and this one is special because it’s rooted in Alan’s story and a place he’s always loved.” “Today’s travelers are increasingly planning trips around signature events, and Alan Jackson’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere Fest is a perfect example of how music and place can come together to create an unforgettable experience,” says Milton Segarra, CDME, President and CEO of Discover The Palm Beaches, the tourism marketing organization for Palm Beach County. “This festival captures the laid-back spirit and coastal warmth that define our destination. We invite attendees to stay longer, explore more, and embrace The Palm Beaches lifestyle embodied by this signature event.” As part of its commitment to fans, Alan Jackson’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere Fest has partnered with StubHub to introduce a safe and secure fan-to-fan ticket exchange, giving fans access to sold-out ticket types and the ability to purchase verified tickets directly through the official platform if plans change. Tickets, festival information, and presale details are available at: 5oclocksomewherefest.com , all tickets went on sale on Friday, March 27th, 2026. The festival will also offer a range of VIP experiences, including elevated chef-curated food and beverage offerings, dedicated entrances, air-conditioned spaces, and premium platform viewing options, with more details to be announced. Alan Jackson’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere Fest is destined to become an annual event worthy of the Country Music Hall of Famer’s own past touring career and the musical legacy that’s made him the revered icon he is. This new event that bears his name is the perfect opportunity for anyone who needs a little time off to “just call it a day” and “pour something tall and strong”…and will be for years to come. About Peachtree Entertainment: Peachtree Entertainment is a nationally acclaimed concert promoter committed to spotlighting rising talent. With over 15 years of expertise in the music industry, Peachtree Entertainment has earned its reputation as a leader and innovator in live music. As pioneers in identifying and nurturing new talent, Peachtree Entertainment has played a key role in launching the touring careers of artists like Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Luke Bryan, Ella Langley, and many more. Beyond tours, Peachtree’s outdoor event portfolio features iconic gatherings such as Rock The South, Rock The Country, Live At The Station, Bulls Bands & Barrels, Tailgate N’ Tallboys, and Boots on the Bend among many others. Peachtree Entertainment is dedicated to shaping the national country music scene, continuing its legacy of significant influence and success. To learn more information about Peachtree Entertainment tours and events, or follow on Instagram or Facebook. About Discover The Palm Beaches: Discover Palm Beach County Inc. dba Discover The Palm Beaches (DTPB) serves as Palm Beach County’s travel planning resource for domestic and international visitors. As the official destination marketing organization charged with promoting Palm Beach County as a leisure travel and meetings destination, Discover The Palm Beaches plans and executes initiatives in a broad range of areas including sales, marketing, research, visitor services, and industry relations. The goal is to deliver the right message through the right medium to the right audience at the right time in order to increase visitation and economic impact in Palm Beach County. Discover The Palm Beaches is a private non-profit corporation that is funded primarily by the collection of a “bed tax” paid by lodging guests for short-term stays in Palm Beach County. Previous Next