Latin Flair & Asian Flavors Abound At Finka Table & Tap South Florida Sun Times Jun 26, 2025 Finka Table & Tap, The Beloved West Kendall Restaurant Known For Its Bold Latin-Asian Cuisine, Vibrant Spirit And Hospitality Is Starting The Summer Fun Early With A Slew Of New Cocktails. The Lineup Features Seven Handcrafted Cocktails That Are Anything But Ordinary, Boasting Unique Techniques, Nostalgic Flavors, And Unexpected Ingredients. Beverage Director Alex Aportela set out to curate drinks that felt exciting but also familiar. He notes, “We wanted to have fun with flavors while staying true to Finka’s identity—bold, a little wild, and deeply rooted in Latin and Asian culture.” From clarified tomatillo punch to coconut-infused bourbon, each cocktail is a statement in flavor, story, and style. Finka’s new cocktails include: Mole Mole Mole – Robust & Smokey A clarified milk punch with Amaras Mezcal, house-made mole, and acid-adjusted orange juice, topped with a homemade tortilla chip drizzled in chocolate. Dough Not Touch My Coffee – Caffeinated & Rich A decadent blend of coconut-infused Legent Bourbon, fresh brewed coffee, charred doughnuts, maple syrup, and coconut water – garnished with white chocolate shavings over ice. How Do You Dew? – Fizzy & Refreshing Havana Club Blanco, fresh honeydew juice, herbal peppercorn cordial, and sparkling water meet in this bubbly and crisp sipper, finished with a slice of honeydew. Call My Ube(r) – Herbaceous & Silky Roku Gin with ube Thai basil miso syrup, coconut cream, and citrus – shaken with egg white for a lush texture and served with a honeycomb chip. El Tillo Que Toma – Savory & Spicy Clarified milk punch with Hornitos Tequila, charred tomatillo, salsa verde, and cilantro – garnished with a dehydrated tomato slice for an umami-rich experience. Arroz Con Mango – Tropical & Toasty A tropical-yet-earthy surprise featuring Haku Rice Vodka, toasted rice syrup, mango purée, habanero tincture, and a citrusy rice-lime zest foam with mango rice powder. Oolong La – Floral & Tingly Japanese Toki Whisky with oolong-Szechuan tea, malic and citric acids, and forced carbonation – garnished with a peach-Szechuan hard candy “The cocktails feel like a warm summer night at Finka,” says Aportela. “We design drinks to catch your eye but always drink easy. Every cocktail tells its own story, but they all come from the same world, where culinary techniques meet bar craft.” While sipping on new cocktail creations, don’t forget to savor Finka’s incredible culinary dishes. The El Tillo Que Toma and Mole Mole Mole are designed to pair beautifully with favorites such as pork belly, ribs, and anything char-grilled. All aspects work in harmony for the ideal culinary experience. Finka Table & Tap was opened in 2014 by Chef Eileen Andrade as her first- owned concept. The restaurant focuses on Cuban, Peruvian and Korean cuisines. The eatery is known for its eclectic food menu mixed with craft cocktails. The space is a go-to spot for families in the Miami suburb of West Kendall. The spacious restaurant seats 222 guests indoors with private dining holding 45 guests and the bar/lounge fitting 24 guests. Finka Table & Tap is located at 14690 Southwest 26th Street, Miami, Florida 33175. For more information, please visit: www.finkarestaurant.com - Or call: (305) 227-8818. Previous Next

The Police State Has A New Playbook - Martial Law, One City At A Time John & Nisha Whitehead Aug 27, 2025 Let’s Not Mince Words: Every American Should Be Alarmed By President Trump’s “Liberation Day” Tactics, Theatrics And Threats. What is unfolding in the nation’s capital is a hostile takeover of our constitutional republic. This is no longer about partisan politics, wag-the-dog distractions from the Epstein debacle, or even genuine national security concerns. This is martial law disguised as law-and-order—the oldest trick in the authoritarian playbook. We have been traveling this slippery slope toward a police state for some time, but under Trump 2.0, the descent towards outright tyranny is accelerating. Building on the expanded emergency powers he has claimed to wage war on immigration, wokeness and the economy, Trump is taking aim at yet another so-called “crisis”—this time, by waging war on crime in the nation’s capital, despite the fact that crime is at a 30-year low. Under the guise of “restoring order” and “cleaning up” the streets, Trump has called in the National Guard, dispatched the FBI, and federalized the local police in order to take control of Washington, D.C. This is how the Emergency State operates in the open. A real but manageable problem—crime, homelessness, public disorder—is inflated into an existential threat. Fear is manufactured, then exploited to seize more power. Whether the trigger is terrorism, civil unrest, economic instability, or public health, the aim remains the same: expand the reach of federal authority, justify more militarized policing, and condition the public to accept the suspension of rights in the name of national security. Once these powers are taken, they are never willingly relinquished. Each time, Trump pushes the envelope a little, relying on military optics meant to intimidate. At each stage, the scope of who could be targeted by these executive orders and emergency power operations grows wider. These are not isolated decisions; they are part of a coordinated playbook for bringing local jurisdictions under direct federal control, one crisis at a time. This is mission creep in action—by breaking the police state’s hostile takeover of the country and our Constitution into a series of incremental moves, the administration sidesteps the broad public backlash that a single, sweeping declaration of martial law would provoke. Once the federal government claims the authority to override local control, put boots on the ground, and target a designated “dangerous class,” that authority inevitably broadens to sweep in new targets. What begins by targeting violent criminals quickly expands to hardworking immigrants, then the homeless. Tomorrow those targeted could be protesters, journalists, or anyone deemed undesirable. These executive orders constitute a war on the American people without a formal declaration of war. Once the definitions of “criminal,” “threat,” and “danger” are used interchangeably to advance political needs, there is no limit to who can be targeted next. What begins with a narrow claim of emergency power is quickly normalized and made permanent. We have seen this pattern before. The difference today is that the slippery slope has become steeper and the slide faster. What once took years to creep into everyday life now happens in a matter of months. Every crisis becomes a test: of our willingness to let the government sidestep the Constitution, of our tolerance for militarized “solutions” to social problems, of whether the public will resist or comply, of whether those in authority can get away with moving the line yet again. The players change—Bush, Obama, Trump, Biden, and now Trump again—but the game remains the same: permanent crisis management, permanent power grabs, permanent erosion of liberty. This is how constitutional limits die—not in one dramatic coup, but in a series of incremental “emergencies” that accustom us to living under permanent federal occupation. By that measure, the takeover of Washington, D.C., is a chilling case study. The issue is not whether Trump can seize control of DC. Under section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, the president may do so for 48 hours without congressional approval and up to 30 days with notice to Congress. So the question we must ask as the symbolic heart of the republic is transformed into a constitution-free zone is: Why? Why now—when crime is at its lowest level in three decades? And where do we go from here? The federal takeover of Washington, D.C., is not the end of that slippery slope. It is merely the latest drop, and nothing in our present political climate suggests it will be the last. The police state will always need another manufactured crisis. Given the rate at which the government keeps devising new ways to establish itself as the “solution” to all of our worldly problems at taxpayer expense, each subsequent crisis ushers in ever larger expansions of government power and fewer individual liberties. Once the government acquires authoritarian powers—to spy, surveil, militarize police, seize funds, wage endless wars, censor speech, detain without due process, etc.—it does not willingly relinquish them. The lesson for the ages is this: once any government is allowed to overreach and expand its powers, it’s almost impossible to put the genie back in the bottle. History bears this out: as the government expands, liberty contracts. If the president can federalize the policing of the capital, override local control, and treat entire populations as security threats without meaningful resistance from Congress, the courts, or the public, then there is nothing to stop that same template from being applied to any city in America in the name of “security.” What is happening in Washington today will be the model for what happens nationwide tomorrow. Case in point: at Trump’s direction, the Pentagon—the military branch of the government—is looking to establish a “Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force,” made up of National Guard troops kept on standby at all times, which could be rapidly deployed to American cities “facing protests or other unrest.” Indeed, Trump has already hinted that he plans to target Baltimore, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and Oakland next. This is straight out of the playbook used in that Pentagon training video created by the Army for U.S. Special Operations Command. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, if we do not stop this dangerous trajectory now, the question will not be whether martial law comes to your city—it will be when, under what pretext, and whether we will have the courage and the wherewithal to resist. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an attorney and author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of constitutional law, human rights and popular culture. John Whitehead's commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org . Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org Previous Next

Making A Lasting Impact On Community Health - Fundraiser Supports Programs That Improve The Lives Of Those In Underserved Communities South Florida Sun Times Sep 17, 2025 Magic is in the air as The Cordish Companies Green Blazer Awards Gala & Celebration presented by Florida Blue benefits Community-Based Connections, Inc. (CBCI) at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 11th, 2025 at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. For the fourth year, CBCI will recognize outstanding individuals who have made a lasting impact on community health. This year’s honorees are Tim Curtin, Memorial Healthcare System; Rosalyn Frazier, Broward Community & Family Health Centers; Kathy Salerno, Broward Health and Ken Walters, Community Care Plan. “Improving community health truly takes a village. Community Based Connections, Inc., is thrilled to celebrate four extraordinary individuals whose passion, leadership, and service are creating real change,” said Mikelange Olbel, CEO of Community Based Connections, Inc. “Their advocacy and commitment ensure that more of our neighbors are seen, heard, and connected to quality healthcare and life-changing services.” The four honorees are each outstanding. Tim Curtin has been working with “at risk” communities for the past 40 years. He started out in the field of prevention working as a Park Service Worker in Harlem and in 1987 developed what was called in the “Inner City Olympics” to keep kids busy and off the drug riddled New York City streets. He has been serving Broward County, Florida communities since 1989 as a provider of community-based substance abuse and mental health services. As the Vice President of community services for Memorial Healthcare System, Tim designs, implements and directs programs for maternal-child health, maternal depression, hurricane disaster, homelessness, adolescent substance abuse, juvenile diversion, crime prevention, kinship and foster care, after school programs, summer camps as well as senior programming throughout Broward County. Under Tim, Memorial’s community-based programs have been honored by the National Association of Public Hospitals, America’s Essential Hospitals, American Hospital Association, Florida Hospital Association, Florida Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association, Florida Department of Children and Families, Broward County Public Schools and more. Rosalyn Crawford Frazier is the CEO of Broward Community & Family Health Centers, Inc. (BCOM) operating four clinical practice sites and one dental site located in Broward County, Florida. For 22 years, she has been overseeing the successful operations of the oldest federally qualified health center in the County providing comprehensive medical, behavioral and oral health services. As a senior executive, she has over 35 years of experience in health care management, grant writing, financial management, physician recruitment, and managed care contracting for non-profit/for-profit health organizations. Frazier is heavily involved in health policy advocacy from grassroots levels through the highest levels of government. She has been integral in policy development having testified before legislative committees, lobbying and serving on various policy planning councils. Currently, she serves on the Health Policy Committee, Legislative Committee and the Health Center Financing Subcommittee with the National Association of Community Health Centers. She currently serves as the Board Chair for Health Choice Network, Inc. Kathy Salerno is the Director of Community Relations for Broward Health. She is actively involved in the community making a difference in such organizations as 211 Broward, Arc Broward, Broward Education Foundation, Healthy Start Coalition of Broward County, Leadership Broward, Pace Center for Girls, Parkland Chamber of Commerce, and Tower Forum to name a few. To her credit, she is a graduate of Leadership Florida Connect Class 12, Leadership Broward Class XXXVIII, Leadership Fort Lauderdale Class XXV. She was recognized as one of the top 30 under 30 in politics by the News Service of Florida, Forty under 40 by South Florida Business Journal, and an Advocate in Health by South Florida Business and Wealth. Salerno enjoys serving the community on local boards plus loves music, concerts, Broadway shows and spending time with her family. Ken Walters leads Community Care Plan’s daily operations with a strategic focus on efficiency, compliance and excellence. He ensures the health plan not only meets contractual requirements, but surpasses expectations in operational effectiveness, fostering an environment where members and providers experience outstanding service and become passionate advocates. With more than 27 years of expertise in government programs, Walters is dedicated to facilitating high-quality healthcare delivery for Medicare, Medicaid and underserved communities. His leadership drives initiatives that enhance accessibility and improve patient outcomes. “The Cordish Companies is proud to support the important work that Community-Based Connections does as part of our longstanding commitment to the South Florida community and beyond,” said Zed Smith, Chief Operating Officer of The Cordish Companies. “As a company that has remained true to the family’s core values, we are pleased to support this annual event which has a direct impact on advancing social services programs that help local children and families.” The evening of celebration will include a cocktail reception, a seated three-course dinner with a continuous open bar, live musical entertainment, dancing and the impactful awards ceremony, which includes the presentation of the branded green blazers, hosted by special guest Local 10 News Anchor/Reporter Michaila Hightower. Last year’s honorees were Anna Fusco, Broward Teachers Union; Kenneth Jones, HCA Florida Northwest Hospital; Sandy Michael McDonald, Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development; Jasmin D. Shirley, Broward Health Regional Planning Council; Dion Smith, Children’s Services Council of Broward and Khalil Zeinieh, community advocate. Sponsors of this year’s awards event are The Cordish Companies as the title sponsor, Florida Blue as the presenting sponsor plus FP&L, Handy, HCA Hospital and Brenda D. Forman, clerk of courts. Tickets are $125 per person; a table is $2,500. To attend, please reserve seats at: https://communitybasedconnections.com/green-blazer-awards/ . About Community-Based Connections, Inc. Community-Based Connections, Inc. (CBCI) is a NonProfit human services organization with more than 16 years of expertise in delivering youth development advocacy and family resilience strengthening programs, plus health and community empowerment initiatives to underserved populations in Broward County. CBCI was founded upon the belief that service providers who have natural ties to the community are in the best position to help improve the odds of youth and family success. The CBCI mission is to expand the options available to children – from cradle to college - that promote their social and academic growth, equipping them with the skills they need to overcome challenges and thrive in adulthood. CBCI programs services that engage, encourage and motivate include the Young Believers Program, Family Strengthening Program, S.M.A.R.T. Team, New Day Diversion, and the Early Achievers Program. For more information, visit: https://communitybasedconnections.com Previous Next

‘Tis The Sea-Sun Of Possibilities At The Beach South Florida Sun Times Dec 25, 2025 ‘Tis The Sea-Sun! This Holiday Season, Celebrate Where The Sky Kisses The Sea At Bo’s Beach And Bokamper's Sports Bar & Grill, With A Sea Of Possibilities For Holiday Parties, All-You-Can-Eat Stone Crab New Year’s Eve Specials, Holiday Bonus Gift Card Promotions And More. Holiday Gift Card Bonus at Bo’s Beach and Bokamper’s: A gift card to transport loved ones straight to the shoreline. Give the gift of coastal cheer with a gift card from Bo’s Beach or Bokamper’s this season. Now through Wednesday, December 31st, guests will receive a bonus gift card for every gift card purchase. Gift-givers will receive a $5 bonus card on $25 gift card purchases, a $10 bonus card on $50 gift card purchases, and a $20 bonus card on $100 gift card purchases. Bonus gift cards will be available for redemption from Friday, January 2nd, 2026 to Tuesday, March 31st, 2026. Gift cards are available to purchase at the restaurants or online. To purchase online, visit: • Bo’s Beach: https://bosbeach.com/gift-card/ • Bokamper’s: https://bokampers.com/fort-lauderdale/gift-card/ New Year’s Eve at Bo’s Beach and Bokamper’s: Crack open holiday cheer! This New Year’s Eve, shell-ebrate at Bo’s Beach and Bokamper’s with all-you-can-eat large stone crabs. For $115 per person, guests can indulge in endless servings of Fresh Florida large stone crabs, accompanied by a soup, a side salad and house-made mustard sauce, the perfect complement to this beloved seasonal delicacy. New Year’s Day at La Playa Rooftop: Guests will enjoy a slice of paradise at La Playa Rooftop on New Year’s Day with a live DJ playing a beach party mix from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Bo’s Beach + La Playa Rooftop Holiday Parties + Special Events: Make this holiday season unforgettable with ocean views, festive vibes, and incredible food at Bo’s Beach. Bo’s Beach recently reopened with a fresh upgrade that brings the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys right to Fort Lauderdale Beach. With a refreshed look, vibrant energy and a menu to match, Bo’s Beach is inviting visitors and locals alike to book their holiday parties so they can unwind, indulge and soak up the ultimate coastal getaway, without the drive to mile marker zero. Inspired by the island spirit of Key West, the beachside restaurant has been completely revitalized with a fresh coat of paint in beachy green hues throughout the space and island-inspired touches. Adirondack chairs, laidback booth seating, playful directional and neon signs, colorful accent pillows, and vibrant wall art reminiscent of a coastal escape bring the Key West vision to life, creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Guests will be transported to paradise as they indulge in the all-new, Keys-inspired menu from Chef Eduardo Guerra, packed with tropical flavors and seafood favorites. Whether it’s a family gathering, corporate event, or a night out with friends, Bo’s Beach offers a stunning beachfront location, delicious coastal cuisine and a full-service bar served with holiday cheer. Bo’s Beach serves up a personalized entertainment experience for groups from 25 to 300, with customizable menu options and dedicated assistance from experienced event managers in a two-story open-air setting. La Playa Rooftop is Fort Lauderdale Beach’s ultimate skyline escape, perched above Bo’s Beach and offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. This open-air rooftop oasis blends a relaxed, coastal vibe with vibrant energy, creating the perfect setting for everything from leisurely lunches to sunset cocktails and evening get-togethers. Designed to capture the sea breeze and golden-hour skies, it’s an unmatched destination for locals and visitors alike. With its stylish ambiance, stunning views and friendly, attentive service, La Playa Rooftop sets the stage for an unforgettable private event experience. Bokamper’s Sports Bar & Grill Holiday Parties + Special Events: Kick off the next holiday event at Bokamper’s! For over 15 years, Bokamper’s has been known for its high-energy sports bar atmosphere and as a local hot spot for its Killer B wings and Bo’s Brew Pale Ale. Boasting waterfront views and TVs covering every wall for maximum sports enjoyment, Bokamper’s is the perfect place for sports fans of all ages to cheer on their favorite teams this holiday season. This holiday season, Bokamper’s is serving up personalized private event and holiday party experiences with customizable menu options, private rooms, and dedicated assistance from experienced event managers. With food and beverage options for any size group, from 25 to over 500 guests, Bokamper’s offers private indoor and outdoor waterfront seating options. Dedicated event managers will make planning the event easy, from customizing the ideal menu to fit the taste and budget to creating the perfect setting for the event so that every guest feels like an MVP. Bokamper’s offers countless HDTVs and an audio system to share a slideshow of memories or to deliver the perfect business presentation. College Bowl Games at Bokamper’s: Bokamper’s is the front-row seat to all the gridiron action for the College Bowl Games. During the Bowl Games, Bokamper’s is calling all the plays with end-zone worthy daily specials and happy hour. Bokamper’s will be in full blitz mode on New Year’s Day, where fans can catch the CFP Quarterfinals with TVs covering every wall of the restaurant. Weekly Specials: Monday through Friday, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Happy Hour specials at the bar only, Sunday through Thursday from 9:00 p.m. to close: Late-night happy hour specials at the bar only: Mondays, from open to close: $12 small wings (with the purchase of a beverage), $22 large wings (with the purchase of a beverage) and $15 buckets of Budweiser or Bud Light. Tuesdays, from open to close: $22 full rack of BBQ ribs served with coleslaw and fries (with the purchase of a beverage). Wednesdays, from open to close: 2x MVP points,$12 burger and fries (with the purchase of a beverage) and kids eat half off (with the purchase of an adult entree). Thursdays, from open to close: $12 small wings (with the purchase of a beverage), $22 large wings (with the purchase of a beverage) and $15 buckets of Budweiser or Bud Light. Ditch Fridays, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.: Extended happy hour specials at the bar only. Happy hour specials include $4 domestic draft and bottles of beer; $5 import drafts and bottles of beer; $6 well drinks; $7 house wines and $9.99 bar bites including chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, Kimberly's Grilled Chicken Quesadilla, house pico and chips, spinach and artichoke dip and guacamole with chips. Bo’s Beach is located at 600 Seabreeze Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316. For more information about Bo’s Beach, please visit: www.bosbeach.com . Bokamper’s is located at 3115 Northeast 32nd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33308. For more information about Bokamper’s, please visit: https://bokampers.com . About Bo’s Beach: Bo’s Beach, a PDKN Restaurant Group concept, offers a casual beach dining experience with a Key West twist. Located on Fort Lauderdale Beach, this seaside restaurant features local fresh seafood, a signature wood-fired oven, refreshing cocktails and ocean-inspired classics. Bo’s Beach is a two-story restaurant and bar that has both indoor and outdoor seating and offers tables with direct ocean views. Event space is available throughout the restaurant and on the second floor/rooftop. Bo’s Beach is owned by former Miami Dolphins player Kim Bokamper and his three partners, who also own Bokamper’s Sports Bar & Grill. Bo’s Beach is located at 600 Seabreeze Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33308. For more information, visit: www.bosbeach.com . About Bokamper’s Sports Bar & Grill: Bokamper’s Sports Bar & Grill was founded in 2008 by former Miami Dolphins player Kim Bokamper. Its mission is to be “The Best Game in Town” by providing exceptional service, great food, and an unparalleled atmosphere for friends, families and sports fans of all ages and to create a rewarding and friendly environment for employees to work in. Bokamper’s is proud to be named Fort Lauderdale Magazine’s Best Sports Bar of 2024 in the gold category for five consecutive years from 2019 to 2024, and in the bronze category in 2025. It was named “Best Sports Bar” in the Sun Sentinel’s 2017 “Best of South Florida.” Bokamper’s is located at 3115 Northeast 32nd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33308. For more information, visit: www.bokampers.com - Or call: (954) 900-5584. Bo’s Beach Previous Next

Concerts At The ArtsPark, Featuring: Jah Steve & The Counteract Crew, Saturday, July 13th at 7:00 p.m. July 11, 2024 Share Jah Steve & the Counteract Crew is a crowd-exciting, Roots Reggae Band with the rare blend of style AND substance. There is a blend of Old School Reggae Sound with current, socially aware lyrics. Opening performance from TWYN: TWYN is a meeting of Jazztronica and Dynamic Lyricism by way of instrumental expression. With their new wave of songs, TWYN carries their analog expressions further, expounding on their influences of Hip-Hop and passing them through their cosmic lens. Concerts at the ArtsPark is a Free series of family-friendly events in the magnificent Hollywood ArtsPark Amphitheater at Young Circle, located at Hollywood Boulevard and US-1, this event series engages Hollywood residents, businesses and visitors, and promotes Historic Downtown Hollywood as a wonderful place to live, work and play. Lawn seating is available, so bring a blanket or beach chair for comfort. As a reminder, City parks are plastic and foam Free. Single-use items, like plastic water bottles and utensils are prohibited on the grounds. Free Resident Self-Service Sand Distribution Sand is available on a first come, first served basis for Hollywood residents to create their own sandbags. Beginning on Monday, July 8th, empty bags can be picked up at the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Administrative Office, located at 1405 South 28th Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33020 each Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., while supplies last. 10 bag limit per household. Sand is available now at the following locations: • Jefferson Park, 1501 Jefferson Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020 • Rotary Park, 3150 Taft St, Hollywood, FL 33021 • Driftwood Community Center, 3000 North 69th Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33024 Residents must bring their own shovel for self-service. Sand will be available from dawn to dusk, while supplies last. < Previous News Next News >

A Contemporary Comedy About An Autistic Man's Longing For Connection And Courage South Florida Sun Times Jun 4, 2026 Audiences And Critics Are Glowing With Praise About Island City Stage’s Florida Premiere Production Of Light Switch By Dave Osmundsen. The Uplifting Play, Which Tackles The Exploration Of A Young, Autistic Gay Man's Quest To Find Love In A World That Isn't As Romantic As The Victorian-Era Novels He Is Obsessed With, Runs Through June 14. Island City Stage’s production of Light Switch is directed by Michael Leeds and stars Silver Palm Award-winner Gage Callenius as Henry, multi-Carbonell Award-winner Irene Adjan as Marian, Eric Gospodinoff as Joseph, Larry Toyter as Roggie, and Luis Roberto Herrera as Aaron/Ken/Another Guy. “As Henry, Gage Callenius is a name to remember. Carefully molded by the expert director Michael Leeds, his marathon performance is convincing physically and emotionally, consistent, detailed and covering a wide emotional range.” – Bill Hirschman, Florida Theater on Stage “This is a fascinating, edgy, enlightening, funny but also often emotionally difficult play to experience.” - Mindy Leaf, South Florida Theater Magazine “The entire audience was captivated. It’s such an emotional and insightful story done by a stellar cast! I’ve seen it twice and it’s not enough. Love the explanation of the Light Switch mind! This truly resonates with so many! I saw heads nodding throughout the theater.” -Lydia Tegelaar Carlson, audience member “We saw this on Saturday night with another couple... and I can't describe how much I loved this show! We laughed, we cried ... I was so impressed with entire cast, but I must say, Gage Callenius as Henry was REMARKABLE. I was so moved by his performance and hope that EVERYONE goes to see this play. You won't be disappointed. THANK YOU to the entire cast - we will be back to see it again before it goes!” - Brent Booher, audience member This poignant coming-of-age story thoughtfully portrays one remarkable young man's journey to find anything -- or anyone -- that lights up his heart the way 19th century romantic literature does. When Henry ultimately meets a potential match in Joseph, he wonders if Joseph will be the one to “flip the switch.” Funny, moving, and profoundly relatable, Light Switch captures an Autistic man's longing for connection and the courage it takes to be truly seen. Autistic playwright Dave Osmundsen’s work explores the intersections of queerness and neurodiversity. Light Switch received its world premiere with Spectrum Theatre Ensemble in April 2022. Light Switch was also the 2021 Distinguished Achievement recipient of the Jean Kennedy Smith Playwriting Award, an Honorable Mention finalist for BAPF 2021, long listed for the Theatre503 International Playwriting Award, a finalist for the 2020 Carlo Annoni Playwriting Prize, and a semi-finalist for the 2020 National Playwrights Conference. Osmundsen’s work has been seen and developed at KCACTF Region 8, the Kennedy Center/NNPN MFA Playwrights Workshop, B Street Theatre, the William Inge Theatre Festival, the Midwest Dramatists Conference, Phoenix Theatre Company, Clamour Theatre Company, Premiere Stages, and more. He was one of two recipients of the Blank Theatre and Ucross Foundation's inaugural Future of Playwriting Prize. His one-act, A Firework Unexploded, was a semi-finalist for the NYC Audio Theatre Writing Contest and was produced by Pint-Sized in London. His plays have been published by or are forthcoming in The Dionysian, Canyon Voices, Exposition Review and Broadway Play Publishing. MFA: Arizona State University. Light Switch co-producers are Funding Arts Broward & Mark Loeser and the Opening Doors Charitable Trust; Lights and Sound Sponsor is Scott Bennett; Talent Sponsors are Jim Morgan & Joe Rodonis; Costume Sponsor is Richard Meyerson; and Set Sponsor is Glenn Goldberg. Additional funding is provided by the following: The Our Fund Foundation, The Schubert Foundation Inc., the SHS Foundation, the Warten Foundation, and OutClique. From twisted tales to touching human stories, Island City Stage invites you to expect the unexpected. Closing out its 14th Season of bold productions, each delivering unexpected twists, inventive storytelling, and unforgettable theatrical moments, is the Tony Award-winning play Eureka Day by Jonathan Spector from Thursday, August 20th, 2026 – Sunday, September 20th, 2026. The show runs for one hour and 50 minutes with an intermission. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.islandcitystage.org . Or call: (954) 928-9800. Or email: boxoffice@islandcitystage.org . Follow Island City Stage on: www.Facebook at facebook.com/IslandCityStage - And on Instagram at: @islandcitystage. About Island City Stage Founded in 2012, Island City Stage is a professional regional theater committed to sharing classic and contemporary stories, engaging audiences with entertaining, challenging, and inspiring productions and programs. 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 at 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 . Luis Roberto Herrera (Aaron/Ken/Another Guy) and Gage Callenius (Henry) Gage Callenius stars as Henry in Island City Stage’s Florida premiewe of Light Switch by Dave Osmundsen. Gage Callenius (Henry) and Irene Adjan (Marian) Previous Next

Bring Your Family Together With Breakfast For Dinner By Family Features May 24, 2023 Share Despite busy lives and full schedules, finding time for regular meals with loved ones encourages connections and conversations that can benefit Mental and Physical Well-Being. Gathering your family, friends, coworkers or neighbors at least once a week to spend time together over a meal provides opportunities to decompress and socialize. If you're looking for a little delicious inspiration, the American Heart Association recommends scheduling one night per week to create a recurring tradition and enjoy favorites such as breakfast for dinner. Recipes like Egg, Avocado and Black Bean Breakfast Burritos and Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls from the Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland's Best, are perfectly suited for sharing while making time to destress at the dinner table. In fact, according to a study by "Canadian Family Physician," regular meals at home with loved ones can reduce Stress, boost Self-Esteem and make everyone feel connected with mealtime conversations that allow a chance to unplug and unwind. Meals don't have to be elaborate for a successful evening together. Despite the perceived effort involved with preparing a meal, research published in "Preventive Medicine" shows those who have frequent meals with others, particularly parents with their children, may improve Social and Emotional Well-Being. In addition to the Mental and Emotional benefits of meals with loved ones, eating together can also encourage healthier choices when better-for-you recipes are on the menu. Dining as a group can provide inspiration to try Heart-Healthy Recipes that include the wide variety of Vegetables, Fruit, Whole Grains and Healthy Protein Sources recommended by the American Heart Association to help prevent Heart Disease and Stroke. To find recipe ideas, conversation starters and more tips for mealtime, visit: www.heart.org/together Huevos Rancheros Servings: 4 Salsa: • 1 Teaspoon of Canola Oil • 1/2 Cup of diced Yellow Onion • 1/2 Cup of diced Poblano Pepper, Seeds and Ribs discarded • 1 Small Fresh Jalapeño Pepper, Seeds and Ribs discarded, minced • 1 1/2 Teaspoons Minced Garlic • 1 Can (14 1/2 Ounces) No-Salt-Added Crushed Tomatoes • 2 Tablespoons of Water • 1/4 Teaspoon of Salt Huevos Rancheros: • 1 Teaspoon of Canola Oil • 4 Large Eggs • 4 Corn Tortillas (6 Inches), warm • 1 Can (15 1/2 Ounces) No-Salt-Added Black Beans, rinsed and drained • 1/4 Cup of Shredded Low-Fat Mexican Cheese Blend • 1 Small Avocado, quartered and sliced • 2 Tablespoons of Chopped Fresh Cilantro (optional) • 1 Medium Lime, cut into four wedges (optional) To make the Salsa: In a medium saucepan over Medium Heat, heat the Oil, swirling it to coat the bottom. Cook the Onion for 2 minutes, or until almost soft, stirring it frequently. Cook the Poblano and Jalapeño Peppers for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in the Garlic. Cook it for 1 minute. Stir in the Tomatoes, the Water and the Salt. Bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and cover it to keep it warm. To make the Huevos Rancheros: In a medium Non-Stick skillet over Medium Heat, heat the Oil, swirling it to coat the bottom. Cook the Eggs for 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set and the edges are fully cooked. Place one Tortilla on each plate. Top each Tortilla with the Beans and one Egg, being careful not to break the Yolk. Gently top each Ggg with the Warm Salsa, the Cheese and the Avocado Slices. Sprinkle each serving with Cilantro and serve them with a Lime Wedge, if desired. Egg, Avocado And Black Bean Breakfast Burritos Servings: 4 • Non-Stick Cooking Spray • 1 1/3 Cups of Liquid Egg Whites • 1 Can (15 1/2 Ounces) No-Salt-Added Black Beans, rinsed and drained • 4 Whole-Wheat Tortillas (6 inches, lowest sodium available) • 2 Medium Avocados, sliced • 1/4 Cup of Hot Sauce or Salsa (lowest sodium available, optional) Lightly spray a large skillet with Non-Stick Cooking Spray. Heat over Medium Heat. In a skillet, stir the Egg Whites constantly with a rubber spatula to scramble them. Cook until the Eggs are almost set. Add the Beans, stirring until combined and heated through. Microwave the Tortillas on high for 45 seconds and then transfer them to the work surface. Spread the Egg Mixture in the center of each Tortilla. Top them with the Avocado and the Hot Sauce, if desired. For each burrito, fold two sides of the Tortilla toward the center. Starting from the closest unfolded side, roll the burrito toward the remaining unfolded side to enclose the filling. Transfer them seam side down onto the plates. Southwestern Quinoa And Egg Breakfast Bowls Servings: 4 • 1/4 Cup of Uncooked Quinoa, rinsed and drained • 2 Medium Tomatoes, chopped (about 2 cups) • 1 Cup of No-Salt-Added Frozen Corn, thawed • 1/2 Medium Avocado, pitted and diced • 1/4 Cup of chopped Green Onions • 1/2 Cup of chopped Fresh Cilantro (optional) • Non-Stick Cooking Spray • 4 Large Eggs • 1/8 Teaspoon of Salt • 1/4 Teaspoon Pepper • Red Hot-Pepper Sauce, to taste (optional) Cook the Quinoa according to the package’s directions. Remove from heat. Spoon the Quinoa into four bowls. Top each one with the Tomatoes, the Corn, the Avocado, the Green Onions and th Cilantro, if desired. Lightly spray a large skillet over Medium-High Heat with the Non-Stick Cooking Spray. Crack the Eggs into the skillet. Sprinkle the Eggs with the Salt and the Pepper. Cook them uncovered for 3-4 minutes, or until the Egg Whites are set but the Yolks are still runny. Using a spatula, carefully transfer one Egg Sunny Side up into each bowl. Sprinkle with the hot sauce, if desired. < Previous News Next News >

American Heritage Schools Is The Number 1 School In Florida - Highest Number Of National Merit Scholar Semifinalists For the 15th Consecutive Year Wed Oct 16 2024 17:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hallandale Beach Get The Full Perspective By Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper August 8, 2024 Share How do you get your news? We all know it is easy to find out what is happening on the national level. At times it seems like we cannot get away from the 24-hour news cycle. We watch our local stations to get the news about what is happening in South Florida. Until recently, I was getting both the Herald and Sun Sentinel to my door for printed news. I now have opted reluctantly to get my papers online. I am happy this paper is still in print, but I also read the online version since it is not delivered to our doorstep. News and information, I believe, are a bit different. In this column, I share what is taking place within our City and cover items of interest that affect our community. I like to consider this column not just news but information, a report per se, of what has taken place at City Hall with a deeper explanation. Not simply a sound bite. So where else can Hallandale Beach get information about our City? For years we sent out the Hallandale Beach Happenings. It used to be sent out quarterly then biannual and about eight years the city stopped production. This past year we once again started to mail out the Happenings. After a citizen survey we conducted this past spring, we found residents would like more information. We also found that just like we are all different we all like to get our information in diverse ways. Communication with our residents is critical. While we provide information on a website at: www.cohb.org and have used Social Media there is still valuable information that can be sent through a newsletter. The Hallandale Happening is mailed out to our residents. It includes greetings from myself and the commission, but it also takes a deeper dive into our City Departments. We have 10 Departments with multiple subdivisions. For example, the Department of Public Works covers everything from providing water to sanitation. The Sustainable Development Department, formerly the Building Department, includes Planning Code Licensing and everything that pertains to doing business. Police and Fire do not simply provide patrols and emergency responses, they offer an array of services and programs. So, you can see our City provides multiple vital services. We want to make sure our residents have and can get the information they need. We have decided to create the Happening three times a year. Obviously, we also know we need to make sure everyone has access through the media they like. Over the past year we have had issues with our HB app. All technology evolves over time and the service provider was not able to ensure that Emergency Notifications were going out on time. We have contracted Everbridge Mass Notification. This company is geared to emergencies. We want our residents to be informed. We do have one task! You do need to sign up. You can download the app Everbridge from your app store. Please note the one you want has a logo that looks like a check mark. You can also visit our website at: www.cohb.org and click on notifications. The MyHB App is also a great resource to connect you to the city. You can link to departments and even report an issue. We also have a Facebook page - City of Hallandale Beach Government. Note: there is only one that is officially the city. People want to connect as part of our community but please remember it is always wise to be cautious. Other Departments have FB including Human Service and Park and Recreation. Our Police Activities League is also a good one to follow. We also have Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Be on the lookout for our next edition of the Hallandale Beach Happenings. As always, it is an honor to be your Mayor of Hallandale Beach. I am always available 24/7/365. I can be reached via Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. On my Email at: jcooper@cohb.org . Or: joy@mayorjoycooper.com . You can also subscribe to HB 360 News at: www.mayorjoycooper.com where each week I give you the full perspective and share important information. I encourage you to reach out and share your questions, concerns, and ideas to help make our City an even better place. Working for you! Always have! Always will! < Previous News Next News >

Common Room To Debut In Downtown Hollywood - The Neighborhood American Restaurant Will Feature Familiar Fare, Craft Cocktails And An Invitation-Only Speakeasy South Florida Sun Times May 28, 2026 BOL Hospitality Group (BHG) Is Proud To Announce The Debut Of Common Room, A Neighborhood American Restaurant Near Young Circle In Downtown Hollywood. Opening Summer 2026, Common Room Is Located At 2032 Harrison Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020. BHG was founded in 2013 by Eric Douglas and Hai Nguyen, two South Florida hospitality operators who have built a reputation for their portfolio of high-energy, experience-driven concepts across South Florida. The group's portfolio includes Bae Korean Grill, The BOL Asian Cuisine and Davidoff of Geneva Cigar Lounge at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, and Social Room in Hollywood. Zho, a new pan-Asian restaurant, is slated to open at Dania Pointe in Q4 2026. Douglas leads brand development and long-term growth initiatives, while Nguyen oversees operational strategy and concept execution. Common Room marks the group's next chapter in South Florida. At the heart of Downtown Hollywood, Common Room was designed to serve as a neighborhood anchor. Common Room’s philosophy centers on reliably delicious food and expertly crafted cocktails in a warm and energetic atmosphere. The Common Room team prides itself on hospitality, where guests become regulars. Discreetly tucked within the restaurant is The Brooklyn Room, a curated speakeasy accessible by invitation only. Its approachable dining experience, layered with a post-dinner experiential cocktail component, offers guests two distinct experiences under one roof. Douglas coordinated a team of South Florida based companies to assist him in this project. Jewel Toned Interiors designed the interiors, and the architecture and construction were led by Kaller Architects and Lombardi Development. Distinct floral coverings and brass-framed mirrors give the space a sense of nostalgia that anchors the guest experience before a single dish arrives. The intimate 2000 square-foot restaurant offers seating for approximately 65 guests in the dining room, with future outdoor seating planned. The Brooklyn Room operates as a discreetly positioned speakeasy, accessed through the alley in the back of the restaurant. Entry is granted by invitation only, though regulars who make Common Room or any of BOL Hospitality Group’s concepts a habit tend to find their way inside. As a nod to the New York City Borough, guests will enjoy cocktails named after more well-known Brooklyn neighborhoods. Each night will bring a unique mix of beats, including old school hip hop and jazz. Executive Chef Tanya Evans brings a culinary vision built on simplicity: delicious and familiar, executed with fresh ingredients. Evans comes to Common Room with experience at Barton G, Major Food Group and Cafe Minstral, a background that spans high-volume hospitality and detail-driven kitchens. The menu draws on the comfort of American classics, with signature dishes including Lobster Rolls, Yum Yum Fried Chicken, Slow-Braised Short Rib and French Dip. Ingredients are sourced fresh from premium suppliers, with quality as the consistent standard across every dish. The Supper Club-inspired cocktail program, designed by Miami’s Unfiltered Hospitality, pairs classic builds with original signatures, each grounded in fresh, quality ingredients and finished with the kind of Miami-influenced flair. The menu is thoughtfully designed to carry guests from happy hour through last call without missing a beat. “We are proud to welcome Common Room to the Hollywood community, an intimate neighborhood modern American restaurant with a vibe,” said Douglas. “Common Room will be known for great food, an amazing vibe and excellent service. It’s where happy hour effortlessly rolls into great evenings, and great dinners turn into memorable nights.” “While access to The Brooklyn Room speakeasy is by invitation only, becoming a familiar face at any BOL Hospitality Group’s establishments doesn’t hurt your possibilities of getting an invite,” he continued. Hours of operation are Wednesday and Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Common Room will be closed on Monday and Tuesday. For more information, visit: www.bolhospitality.com . About BOL Hospitality Group (BHG): Founded in 2013, BOL Hospitality Group is a South Florida-based hospitality company specializing in distinctive dining and nightlife concepts. Its portfolio includes Bae Korean Grill, The BOL Asian Cuisine, and Davidoff of Geneva Cigar Lounge at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood and Social Room in Hollywood. With Zho set to open at Dania Pointe in Q4 2026, the group continues to expand its presence through carefully curated, experience-driven venues that prioritize design, culinary integrity and guest engagement. “Common Room will be known for great food, an amazing vibe and excellent service.” "Happy hour effortlessly rolls into great evenings, and great dinners turn into memorable nights.” Previous Next

The Shortest Month Of the Year Is Long On Entertainment February 16, 2023 Share Arts lovers have even more to enjoy at The Parker this February with the opportunity to add new hospitality options in addition to an event-packed schedule of music, comedy, family theater and dance in Lillian S. Wells Hall. Guests may now enjoy both premium lounges at the venue. For an additional $40, patrons receive admission to The Haller Club offering exclusive use starting one hour prior to show time and during intermission with complimentary soft drinks, premium beer and wine, coffee and tea (mixed drinks and spirits available at preferred pricing lower than lobby concession prices) plus a seasonal selection of delicious hot and cold hors d'oeuvres and desserts. Starting in February for the first time, audiences may add admission to The Place to Be for $75. The exclusive donor lounge, The Place To Be, provides an ultra-premium experience – complimentary food and beverage service in a private hideaway downstairs at The Parker. Enjoy an open bar serving top-shelf spirits, a buffet of hot and cold hors d’oeuvres and desserts, plus access to private restrooms starting one hour before and through the intermission of evening performances. A limited number of tickets to this private club will be offered to the public on a space-available basis. In a visual and audio extravaganza, Paramount's Laser Spectacular featuring the Music of Pink Floyd is presented on Thursday, February 16th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. Surrounded by walls of concert-quality sound, listeners are swept away on a mind-expanding journey driven by cutting-edge lasers, high definition, large-screen video projection and stunning lighting effects, all choreographed to the music of Pink Floyd. This concert delivers timeless classics from The Wall as well as celebrates Pink Floyd's massive chart-topper Dark Side of the Moon, an album that sold more than 40 million copies and spawned hits like "Money" and "Us and Them." Tickets are $37.50. Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, called by Rolling Stone “one of the most exciting young guitarists in years, with a sound that encompasses B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix and Prince," performs on Saturday, February 18th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. Since the release of Kingfish, his Grammy-Nominated 2019 Alligator Records debut, the Guitarist, Vocalist and Songwriter has quickly become the defining Blues voice of his generation. From his hometown of Clarksdale, Mississippi to stages around the world, he has already headlined two national tours and performed with friends including Vampire Weekend, Jason Isbell and Buddy Guy with whom he appeared on Austin City Limits. Tickets are $35-$75. Keillor & Company is an evening of Stand-Up, Storytelling, Audience Song and Poetry starring Garrison Keillor and featuring Pianist Dan Chouinard and Vocalist Prudence Johnson on Wednesday, February 22nd, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. There are sung sonnets, limericks, musical jokes and the thread that runs through it is the beauty of growing old. There is the News from Lake Wobegon, a town booming with new entrepreneurs, makers of artisanal firewood and gourmet meatloaf, breeders of composting worms and dogs trained to do childcare. But some things endure, such as the formation of the Living Flag on Main Street with citizens in tight formation wearing red, white or blue caps and Keillor among them, standing close to old neighbors, Myrtle Krebsbach "Truckstop," Julie Christensen "Bruno, The Fishing Dog" and Clint Bunsen. The evening includes an a cappella sing-along of patriotic songs, pop standards and hymns ending with the national anthem. This performance is not appropriate for children under 12 years. Tickets are $35-$69.50. Neil Diamond Legacy Concert starring Jay White and the Sweet Caroline Tour Band comes to Lillian S. Wells Hall in The Parker on Thursday, February 23rd, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. White has performed over 10,000 concerts around the world over three decades, honoring the artistry of the American Music Legend and Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Icon Neil Diamond. Tickets are $45-$85. Voted one of the "Top 100 Comedians of All Time" by Comedy Central, Comedian, Actor, Television Writer, Author and Musician Paul Reiser comes to Lillian S. Wells Hall as part of the Truist Comedy Series on Friday, February 24th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. One of Hollywood's most prolific talents, Reiser most recently starred in two hit shows for Netflix – Stranger Things and his Emmy-Nominated role in Chuck Lorre's The Kominsky Method. He also revived one of his most iconic roles in the highly anticipated return of Mad About You, The Emmy, Peabody and Golden Globe-Winning hit 90s Comedy he Co-Created and starred in with Helen Hunt. Recently seen in Red Oaks and The Romanoffs, Reiser joined Sam Rockwell and Michelle Williams in the Emmy-Nominated Fosse/Verdon. Throughout his career, Reiser has worked with both independent and mainstream filmmakers in acclaimed films such as Whiplash, War on Everyone, Diner, Bye Bye Love, Aliens, One Night At McCool's, Beverly Hills Cop I and II and Fatherhood. This event is generously underwritten by The Harry T. Mangurian Jr. Foundation. Tickets are $27.50 and $47.50. An Evening with Phil Rosenthal offers a moderated conversation with the Award-Winning Creator, Executive Producer and host of Somebody Feed Phil on Monday, February 27th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. One of Netflix’s most popular food and travel shows, Somebody Feed Phil recently premiered its sixth season. This Emmy-nominated unscripted documentary series combines his love of food and travel with his unique brand of humor. Rosenthal recently won a 2022 Critics Choice Real TV Award for “Best Travel/Adventure Show” on behalf of the series and he also garnered a 2022 James Beard Award Nomination for “Visual Media—Long Form.” Rosenthal also recently released Somebody Feed Phil The Book, which instantly landed on the New York Times Best Seller List with its collection of must-have recipes, never-before-heard stories and behind-the-scenes photos. This event is not appropriate for children under 12. Tickets are $30-$50 with an option to add on a VIP Experience for an additional $60 that includes a Meet and Greet with Rosenthal. Also in February, South Florida Symphony presents Masterworks III on Wednesday, February 15th, 2023 and The New Florida Follies presents Magic, Music & Mystery Sunday, February 19th, 2023 and Musicworks presents Little River Band on Saturday, February 11th, 2023 The Buckinghams and The Box Tops on Friday, February 17th, 2023 and Stayin' Alive: One Night of Bee Gees on Saturday, February 25th, 2023. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com And at: www.Ticketmaster.com By phone at: (954) 462-0222 in person at The Parker box office and The Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. The Parker is an affiliated venue of The Broward Center For The Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility. The performance season at The Parker is supported by The Broward Performing Arts Foundation. For more information, visit: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com < Previous News Next News >

Parents of College-Bound Students: How to Help Pay For School By BPT August 1, 2024 Share The summer months before college begins are exciting, as everyone anticipates the journey ahead and the educational dreams of every parent and child become realized. It can also be a stressful time, however, as educational costs - plus many other expenses - become a reality and quickly add up. A recent College Ave survey found that parents overwhelmingly believe in the importance of a college degree for their child's future (89%), but also agree the costs of college are stressful and surprisingly high. In the survey, 67% of parents say the cost of room and board was much higher than expected, while 65% also find tuition and fees to be more than anticipated. Over half (55%) say they were surprised by the amount their family was expected to contribute when financial award letters arrived. Parents also mention spending more on things like electronics, transportation and dorm room essentials. How parents and students are meeting the challenge Because college is viewed as crucial to their future, families use a combination of methods to fund their child's education. The first step in the college funding process is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can be completed online and will determine eligibility for financial assistance like grants, merit aid, work-study jobs and federal student loans. While 3 out of 4 parents report setting aside money for their child's college education, just over half were comfortable with their current level of savings. To cover financial gaps, families often use a mix of methods to pay. More than half (62%) say they are using scholarships and grants, 45% will borrow federal, private or parent student loans, and 17% say the parent will take on a side hustle or second job to help cover college costs. Parents also report using strategies to save money such as placing emphasis on their child graduating within four years (56%) and working while in college (46%). Most parents manage extra costs by using more of their income and savings, as well as having their child apply for student loans and encouraging them to seek more scholarships. Bridging the last-minute gap One of the fastest ways to immediately cover any college financing gap, especially when time is running short, is through student loans. First, make sure to take out any federal student loans in the student's name, as these loans come with unique benefits such as income-based repayment plans that are not typically offered by private student loans. However, because there's an annual maximum amount you can borrow in federal student loans, many families also need to explore other options like private loan options. It pays to shop around for the best private student loan lender, as each one offers different rates and repayment terms. To help determine how student loan repayment will impact your family's budget, you can use an online Student Loan Calculator to better understand the total cost of the loan and estimate what your monthly payments will be. One customer-friendly student loan provider to explore is College Ave. They offer competitive rates and a variety of loan repayment terms that can fit your family's budget. Better yet, the application process takes less than three minutes. Although many scholarship deadlines have passed, you can still find options to supplement college costs. Consider searching for smaller or local options with flexible deadlines or less competition, such as through your child's high school career counselor, civic and community organizations, local businesses or your (or your child's) employer. Keep in mind that the College Ave $1,000 scholarship sweepstakes is continuous, so you and your child can enter online every month. The college journey is an important milestone in every young person's life, so it's crucial to provide them the support they need. With continued effort, you can help them achieve their dream, so they can earn the education they deserve. Find more information and tips on funding college at www.CollegeAve.com < Previous News Next News >