2nd Annual One Hallandale Family Fun Field Day, What Will Become Of Our CRA By Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper Apr 10, 2025 The Second Annual One Hallandale Family Fun Field Day Was A Success! With Well Over 1,000 Attendees Over The 4-Hour Period. Many Attended Not Simply The Resource Fair But Many Joined In The Field Events. We Have Not Closed The Books, But The Biggest Winner Is PAL Of Hallandale Beach And Our Local Children That Benefit From Their Year-Round Events. Thank you to Memorial HealthCare System’s One City At A Time for being our Presenting Sponsors. To our other sponsors the City of Hallandale Beach, Hallandale Beach Police Department, BSO Fire Hallandale Beach, Mayor Joy Cooper, United Way Family Stability Program, WellCare, The Fenstersheib Law Group, Walmart, Amsterdam, YMCA, Smatt’s Tennis Academy, Sloane Stephens Foundation, West Express Ladies Flag Football, Walgreens, Chick-fil-A Aventura, Capital Consultation, Fancy Impressions And Vontaii! Also thank you to the many vendors, you can find at: www.mayorjoycooper.com that provided valuable information on health services and family services. A special Thank you to Tycoon Fun Foods that gave out free ice cream and the PAL Cheerleaders that offered snacks to support their Championship squad. BSO held its very first showing of the brand new State-Of-The-Art Rescue helicopter that held an urban training landing right on OB Johnson Park. This was the first helicopter dedicated to, passed BSO Battalion Chief Terryson Jackson that died in the tragic crash. Attendees of all ages had a chance to speak with their pilots and see firsthand the amazing technology. In addition to the Helicopter, attendees had a chance to check out high Water Rescue Vehicle Emergency Transport and Fire Apparatus. Our Police Department came out and held a flag football tournament against the PAL Coaches. The Hallandale Beach Police Department was victorious. They then competed against the West Express Ladies Flag Football athletes. West Express had a triumphant victory over our Hallandale Beach Police Department. Led by Coach Antwon Chaney who has coached and mentored over 60 plus players who have earned scholarships to play in college, maybe we will even see some in the 2028 Olympics. One of his players is Teriyah McFadden, she is the first girl to sign an NIL deal as a junior in high school. An outstanding student athlete who we had the honor to present a Key to The City. These young players really have major skills. Sorry PD! May I say rematch next year? I even joined in the fun by allowing attendees to “Dunk the Mayor.” It was so cute seeing the kids having fun. A few adults had fun too. My first dunk, two young children ran up and asked if I was ok. Too cute!! Thank you to the Parks Department, Building Department, Rotary Club and especially Jonathan Carrillo and Ms. Eve Paul, We are ONE Hallandale! I do want to give a brief update to residents on our CRA which will be a longer on-going issue over the next months. The commission held a special meeting to discuss the future of our CRA. The two-hour meeting allowed us to review a few scenarios when it comes to the future of our CRA. In two years, we must decide whether to extend the CRA, reduce the boundaries or fully sunset. I asked staff to put together the scenarios and the State began to push to preempt all CRA from continuing. The Legislators are pushing to sunset all CRAs. They want all plans and funds to be earmarked with plans in place and executed by October or lose the funding. This is not the first time the state has gone after CRAs so the law may or may not pass. Even with this caveat we do have our work cut out due to the fact even if we decided to keep the CRA we will no longer have the benefit of tax dollars from the County nor the Special Districts that include Children Services Council and the Hospital District. The amount of money in an extended CRA would only include the city tax contribution which is $15 Million annual. The one major difference in a CRA is that the Property Tax Revenue must be spent within the district and must be part of an adopted improvement plan. City powers provide a board ability to do the very same thing as CRA. The major difference is the funding is at the sole discretion of the commission at the time. The majority of our Commission supports the work of the CRA especially the Neighborhood Improvement Programs, Hurricane Shutter Program, Home Improvement Assistance, Senior Programs and Affordable Housing. At this meeting it was agreed that staff would evaluate the cost of ensuring CRA staff would be retained and they were to begin to evaluate the program's cost as part of the city budget. We also will be keenly focused on ensuring all the Current Tax Increment Funding received is allocated and stays within our CRA without having to return our tax dollars to the county. The process will be ongoing, and everyone’s input is vital. I for one want to hear about what program residents want and need. As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org . Please visit me on my Facebook page at Mayor Joy Cooper. Like! Follow! And share! Previous Next

Think Before You Act By Bryan Golden Jun 25, 2026 Acting Without First Thinking Is Too Common. It Is Called Reacting. It Leads To Unintended Negative Consequences. Problems Are Needlessly Created Or Exacerbated. In This State, You Are Driven By Emotion Rather Than Logic. Anger, Jealousy, Bitterness, Hurt, Fear, And Distrust Are Some Of The Feelings Which Bypass Rational Thought. Thinking after acting makes as much sense as a carpenter who cuts first and then measures. Once cut, a board cannot be made longer. Actions, once taken, can't be undone. A skilled carpenter measures carefully before cutting. Being prudent means thinking before acting. Thinking before acting is responding. This is where your behavior is well thought out and planned. Just because someone else acts does not compel you to react. Thinking puts reason before emotion. Without a consciously thought-out response, you revert to a knee jerk reaction. This is your default automatic behavior. What do you say or do when upset, frustrated, or angry? It's common to become trapped in the same patterns of reactive behavior. Other people will pick up on this and use it to manipulate you. Since emotions cloud your ability for clear thinking, take time to calm down whenever you are upset. Acting in haste bypasses the thinking stage. Rarely is there a pressing need to act immediately. More time is on your side than you realize. Once you are calm, you are in a position to begin assessing your situation. Start by answering a few questions. What happened? Does it really matter? Do you need to respond at all? What are you trying to accomplish? The objective answers stimulate your thinking process. Not only do you want to formulate an appropriate strategy for your response, you also need to keep things in perspective. "Don't sweat the small stuff," should always be kept in mind. Many circumstances, which at first seem upsetting, are insignificant when compared to the big picture of your life. These situations typically require little or no action. You can just let them go. When action is necessary, keep your objective in mind. Know what it is you are looking to accomplish. Consider all of the options available to you. Identify the pros and cons for each option. Objectivity is essential. It may be helpful bouncing your thoughts off a neutral person who you trust. Before deciding on your appropriate response, make sure you gather all of the facts directly from the source. Using second or third hand information as a basis for your decisions is a faulty strategy which leads to erroneous conclusions. Realizing a short-term gain at a long-term expense is self-defeating. Take care not to burn bridges if possible. You never know what circumstances and people you will encounter in the future. Well thought out action is more likely to solve problems and preserve relationships than an emotionally fueled reaction. Actions have consequences. Think things through from different perspectives. What impact will your actions have on the various people and situations involved? Are you acting in your best interest or is there some desire for retribution? Your actions should improve your circumstances, not make them worse. Before deciding on a particular course of action, run the different options through "what if scenarios." This approach forces you to consider all of the various cause and effect relationships. You want to anticipate what impact your action will have so you are not caught by surprise. How will other people react? What action will they take? What are the benefits and liabilities to you? A well thought out response gives you the best chance of taking appropriate action which yields the desired results. Use these suggestions to help you think before you act. Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits." Contact Bryan at: Bryan@columnist.com . Or visit: www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com Copyright 2026 Bryan Golden Previous Next

City of Hollywood: Earns Perfect Score in 2022 LGBTQ+ Municipal Equality Index & Weekend Events December 8, 2022 Share The City of Hollywood has earned a perfect score of 100, plus additional nine flex points, on the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation’s 2022 Municipal Equality Index (MEI) for having programs and policies that are inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community. Cities are rated based on non-discrimination laws, the municipality as an employer, municipal services, law enforcement and leadership on LGBTQ+ equity. View Hollywood’s scorecard and the 2022 MEI full report at: https://hrc-prod-requests.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/MEI-2022-Hollywood-Florida.pdf The City of Hollywood joins 118 other cities across the U.S. that earned perfect scores. In South Florida, the City of Hollywood joins Oakland Park, Wilton Manors, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. The HRC scored the City on LGBTQ+ focused activities in five categories – non-discrimination laws, municipality as employer, municipal services, law enforcement, and leadership on LGBTQ+ equality. Examples of City initiatives that contributed to the perfect MEI score include: In celebration of scoring their first ever 100 on the MEI Scorecard, the City of Hollywood sponsored the Hollywood LBGTQ Council’s first Pride Street Festival in downtown Hollywood in early 2022. Several dignitaries and elected officials were in attendance which included an opening ceremony, Flag Raising and Pride Brunch among other event activities. Issued a Proclamation in Recognition of Pride Month and held a Progress Pride flag raising ceremony at City Hall. The flag flew over City Hall for the month of June. Provided funding for organizations that serve LGBTQ+ youth and young adults. Information on Lesbian Visibility Day, and National Transgender HIV Testing Day shared and posted on the City's main social media accounts. Launched a LGBTQ+ Ally Program for City employees, with 20 earning their Ally certificate. To become an ally, employees must watch the 20-minute documentary called “Open Dialogues: Stories from the LGBTQ Community” provided by the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood, view a 24-minute “Become an Ally – LGBTQIA+” video presentation, and attend a 3-hour LGBTQ 101 Proficiency and Workplace Bias Training with Misty “Eyez” Alicea, Director of Women’s Services, Transgender Service & Training Service at SunServe. To date, 35 employees have attended LGBTQ 101 Proficiency training. The 2022 MEI rated 506 municipalities of varying sizes drawn from every state in the nation. Municipalities were rated on criteria covering citywide non-discrimination protections, policies for municipal employees, city services, law enforcement, and the city’s leadership on LGBTQ+ equality. This year, a record-breaking 118 cities earned the highest score of 100. In addition to the 100 standard points, 22 flex points were also available for essential programs, protections, or benefits that were not easily attainable. Weekend In Hollywood Hollywood Beach Sweep
Saturday, December 10th from 7 a.m. – 11 a.m. 2nd Saturday of Every Month Charnow Park Register at www.hollywoodfl.org and search “Beach Sweep.” Holly Jolly Hollywood Festival Sunday, December 11 from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. This jolly holiday festival & gift fair takes place on the historic Downtown Hollywood Boulevard (between 19th & 20th Ave.) • Holiday Gift Fair, featuring local makers with gift-worthy goods • Holiday Themed DIY Make & Take Stations • Photos with Santa Claus • Live Music Stage with performances all day • Holiday Photo Stops • Snow Fall • Open Bars & Restaurants onsite with specials & tasty things • Festive Live Caroling • Playground at Anniversary Park and more cheer! • Free Admission - All Ages - Friendly Pups Welcome Learn more at www.hollywoodfl.org under “Hollywood Happenings.” < Previous News Next News >

Sun, Speed And Sounds - Get Ready For The Beachfront Grand Prix Festival In Fort Lauderdale Aventura Digest Apr 24, 2025 Rev Your Engines And Mark Your Calendars—Fort Lauderdale Is About To Roar To Life With High-Octane Excitement, Family-Friendly Fun And Beachfront Vibes. From Friday, May 2nd To Sunday, May 4th, 2025 The Beachfront Grand Prix Festival Is Set To Transform Las Olas Oceanside Park Into A Thrilling Celebration Of Racing Culture And Community Spirit. And The Best Part? Admission Is Completely Free. Whether you're a die-hard motorsports enthusiast or just looking for a lively weekend outing, this three-day event promises something for everyone. With stunning ocean views as the backdrop, the Beachfront Grand Prix Festival blends the heart-pounding world of racing with the laid-back charm of South Florida’s beach scene. A Festival Like No Other Held at the scenic Las Olas Oceanside Park—right across from the sparkling waters of Fort Lauderdale Beach—the Beachfront Grand Prix Festival is a unique fusion of speed and sand. Open to all ages, it’s an immersive event filled with interactive attractions, live entertainment, exotic car displays and mouth-watering eats. From Friday afternoon through Sunday evening, the park will be the ultimate hub for race fans, local families and curious visitors looking to soak up the action. Whether you're coming for the competition or just to catch some rays, there’s no better place to be! The Pit Stop Challenge: Are You Fast Enough? The undisputed centerpiece of the festival is the Pit Stop Challenge. Step into the shoes of a real racing crew and try your hand at changing a tire on an actual race car. It’s an adrenaline-pumping, hands-on experience that’s sure to fire up your competitive side. Fastest time wins bragging rights—so bring your A-game! Nearby, the Racing Simulator Zone offers a different kind of thrill. Using cutting-edge simulation technology, this interactive attraction puts you behind the wheel in a hyper-realistic racing experience. Suitable for all ages, it’s the perfect opportunity to see if you’ve got what it takes to handle the pressure of high-speed competition. Bonus: local celebrities will be popping in throughout the weekend to take on the challenge themselves—don’t miss the chance to see who burns rubber the fastest! Live Music, Local Flavor and Luxe Cars While the engines roar, the Main Stage will be alive with music. Expect a dynamic lineup of local bands, tribute acts and special performances all weekend long. Whether you're grooving to classic rock covers or vibing with upbeat pop hits, the soundtrack of the Beachfront Grand Prix Festival will keep the energy high from day to night. And let’s talk about food—because no festival is complete without it. Food Truck Row will feature a variety of gourmet trucks dishing out everything from sizzling street tacos to decadent desserts. Wash it all down with craft beverages and specialty cocktails available on-site. Car lovers, prepare to swoon. A stunning showcase of exotic vehicles will be on display throughout the park. From sleek Lamborghinis to vintage rarities, the auto eye-candy is reason enough to swing by. When Friday, May 2nd, 2025: 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Saturday, May 3rd, 2025: 12:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Sunday, May 4th, 2025: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Where Las Olas Oceanside Park 3000 East Las Olas Boulevard Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33361 Whether you’re coming for an hour or spending all three days in the thick of it, the Beachfront Grand Prix Festival is a can’t-miss experience. With more announcements and programming details rolling out soon, keep your eyes on: www.BeachfrontGrandPrixFest.com for the latest updates. So grab your sunglasses, bring the family and make your way to Las Olas for an unforgettable weekend of fun in the fast lane! Previous Next

Celebrate The Holidays With Arc Culinary - Thanksgiving Packages At Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen November 14, 2024 Share Arc Broward’s acclaimed Arc Culinary is offering the perfect way to celebrate the holidays with ease and heart. Arc Culinary’s Thanksgiving meal packages and customizable holiday catering services are designed to make holiday gatherings delicious, memorable, and impactful. "At Arc Culinary, we take great pride in crafting meals that bring people together while supporting a greater cause,” said Craig Zeleznik, Director of Culinary Enterprises. “Our Thanksgiving package is not only a celebration of tradition and flavor, but it's also a way to give back to the community.” Arc Culinary’s chef-prepared Thanksgiving meal features all the classic favorites, including Oven-Roasted Whole Turkey basted in Butter and roasted to a golden finish; Caesar Salad with Crisp Romaine Lettuce and tossed in a Tangy Caesar Dressing with Croutons and Parmesan; Arc-made gravy; Classic Herb Stuffing; Green Bean Casserole featuring tender Green Beans in a creamy sauce and topped with Crispy Onions; Mashed Potatoes made with Yukon golds for a rich buttery flavor; Sweet Potato Casserole topped with Crunchy Pecan Streusel; fresh Cranberry Sauce; and a Mouthwatering Pecan Pie for a classic end to a delicious holiday meal. The Thanksgiving Package is priced at $235, serves 10 and is available for pick-up on Wednesday, November 27th from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. In addition to treating their families, individuals can spread holiday cheer by donating a Thanksgiving dinner to an Arc Broward family in need. Every bite helps support Arc Broward’s mission of transforming the lives of individuals with disabilities. In addition to the Thanksgiving Package, Arc Culinary also offers comprehensive catering services for holiday parties and corporate events. With off-site catering options and the elegant Emeril Lagasse Foundation Innovation Kitchen available for on-site gatherings, Arc Culinary’s team can create a customized menu that perfectly suits any event. To learn more or to order the Thanksgiving Package, visit: https://arcculinary.com/holiday/. To book corporate catering, visit: https://arcculinary.com/corporate-catering/. Arc Broward Since 1956, Arc Broward has worked hand-in-hand with the community, changing how people with disabilities and other life challenges are embraced and included. This critical work ensures that people with disabilities not only live, learn, work, and play in their communities, but more importantly, thrive. Arc Broward operates at nine locations and provides 21 programs throughout Broward County, Florida. Arc Broward’s two social enterprises — Arc Educates and Arc Culinary — are groundbreaking efforts to transform the community by providing opportunities for people with disabilities and other life challenges to realize their full potential. To learn more about Arc Broward, please visit: https://arcbroward.com/ < Previous News Next News >

More Than A Social Service Agency: How Jewish Community Services Of South Florida Serves As Miami-Dade's Safety Net Aventura Digest Jun 25, 2026 For More Than A Century, Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS) Has Been A Source Of Hope, Healing, And Support For Individuals And Families Facing Life's Most Difficult Challenges. Founded In 1920 And Rooted In Jewish Values, JCS Has Grown Into One Of Miami-Dade County's Most Comprehensive Human Service Organizations, Serving More Than 100,000 Individuals Annually Through A Network Of Programs Designed To Strengthen Lives, Promote Self-Sufficiency, And Ensure That No One Faces Hardship Alone. At its core, JCS serves as the community's safety net. Whether someone is struggling with food insecurity, mental health challenges, aging-related concerns, domestic abuse, or an unexpected crisis, JCS provides compassionate support and practical solutions that help people regain stability and thrive. Through its four pillars of excellence, Food Security, Case Management, Clinical Services, and Information & Referral, JCS delivers critical resources that improve quality of life for people of all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances. One of the most visible ways JCS supports the community is through its food assistance programs. As the cost of living continues to rise across South Florida, many families, seniors, and individuals struggle to afford basic necessities. The JCS Kosher Food Bank provides nutritious Kosher food and household essentials to community members experiencing food insecurity, helping ensure that no one must choose between paying bills and putting food on the table. For homebound seniors and vulnerable adults, JCS also operates congregate meals sites, home-delivered meals and grocery assistance programs that help older adults maintain their health, dignity, and independence while aging safely in place. JCS is also nationally recognized for its work supporting Holocaust Survivors, one of the most vulnerable populations in Miami-Dade County. Through its Holocaust Survivor Assistance Program, JCS provides comprehensive case management, home care coordination, reparations assistance, emergency support, and personalized services that allow Survivors to remain safely in their homes and age with dignity. For many Survivors, JCS staff members are more than service providers, they are trusted advocates, companions, and lifelines who help navigate complex healthcare, financial, and social service systems. The organization's commitment to older adults extends beyond Holocaust Survivors. Through its Older Adult Case Management Program, JCS helps seniors access healthcare, transportation, benefits, financial assistance, social services, and community resources. The goal is simple but powerful: helping older adults maintain their independence, remain connected to their communities, and enjoy the highest possible quality of life. As Miami-Dade's senior population continues to grow, these services have become increasingly important for families seeking support for aging loved ones. JCS also provides critical support for individuals and families facing personal crises. Through Shalom Bayit, the agency's domestic abuse support program, domestic abuse survivors receive confidential case management, safety planning, advocacy, and trauma-informed services. The program empowers individuals to rebuild their lives while ensuring they have access to the resources and support necessary to achieve long-term safety and stability. Mental health services represent another cornerstone of JCS' work. The agency provides professional counseling services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing a wide range of emotional and behavioral health challenges. From anxiety and depression to grief, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions, JCS clinicians help clients develop the tools and resilience needed to overcome obstacles and improve their overall well-being. Specialized services are also available for children, youth, families, ensuring culturally competent care for diverse populations throughout Miami-Dade County. In addition to direct services, JCS plays a vital role in connecting people to help through its Information and Referral programs. JCS Access serves as a central entry point for individuals seeking assistance, helping community members navigate available resources and identify the services that best meet their needs. When a person does not know where to turn, JCS Access provides guidance, support, and referrals that can make all the difference. The agency's impact extends even further through its operation of 211 Miami and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, these services connect callers to critical resources, crisis intervention, emotional support, and emergency assistance. Whether someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, searching for housing resources, seeking food assistance, or simply needs help navigating available services, trained specialists are available around the clock to provide support and direction. What makes JCS unique is not only the breadth of its services but also its unwavering commitment to meeting people where they are. The agency understands that every person's circumstances are different, and its programs are designed to provide individualized support that addresses each client's unique needs. This holistic approach allows JCS to create meaningful, lasting impact while helping individuals and families build stronger, healthier, and more self-sufficient lives. As South Florida continues to evolve and new challenges emerge, the need for compassionate, accessible social services remains as critical as ever. For more than 106 years, JCS has stood alongside the community during times of crisis and times of growth, ensuring that help is always within reach. From feeding families and supporting seniors to providing mental health counseling and crisis intervention, JCS remains dedicated to strengthening Miami-Dade County, one person, one family, and one life at a time. To learn more, visit: www.jcsfl.org . To make a contribution, visit: www.jcsfl.org/donate . Previous Next

Fun-Filled & Family-Friendly - The Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Series To Wow Audiences Of All Ages South Florida Sun Times Jun 26, 2025 Summer Starts A Brand New Adventure With The Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Imagination Series At The Broward Center For The Performing Arts And The Parker. The Fun-Filled, Family-Friendly Productions Celebrate Beloved Television And Film Stars From The Past, Together With Today’s Favorites, That Bring Exciting Adventures To Life For Children Of All Ages. “Every day we are making an impact on the lives of our patients,” said Caitlin Stella, CEO of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. “Sponsoring this series broadens our reach by allowing us to bring enriching and educational experiences, that support overall healthy development, to children in our community.” On Thursday, July 3rd, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the South Florida Symphony Orchestra present the 40th Anniversary of the iconic film, Back to the Future, with “Back to the Future in Concert” as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. The audience will want to recharge the flux capacitor before enjoying this epic smash hit. The 1.21-gigawatt blockbuster topped the 1985 box office chart, spawned two wildly successful sequels and stamped an enduring imprint on pop culture. Marty McFly, Doc Brown and a time-traveling DeLorean come together for the adventure of a lifetime as they travel to the past, present and future, setting off a time-shattering chain reaction that disrupts the space-time continuum. Fans old and new will experience the thrill of “Back to the Future” like never before, on a hi-def screen, accompanied by the South Florida Symphony Orchestra performing award-winning composer Alan Silvestri’s dazzling musical score live in sync with the film. Audiences are in for an exclusive treat with nearly 20 minutes of brand-new music added by Silvestri to the film's score. Ticket holders are encouraged to arrive early at the Broward Center to party like it’s 1985, with a real DeLorean photo op, classic ‘80s arcade games and a rad soundtrack of the decade’s greatest hits before the orchestra takes the stage. It’s a pre-show blast from the past audiences won’t want to miss. It's time to enter the multiverse during “Ninja Kidz Live: Infinite Possibilities” in the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center on Sunday, July 6th, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. The Ninja Kidz are leaping out of the screen and into Fort Lauderdale with their first ever Ninja Kidz live action adventure, filled with audience participation, physical challenges, games and epic battles. What happens when two worlds collide? The audience holds the key to shape how each adventure unfolds with an infinite number of possible outcomes. The audience will laugh, cheer and determine destiny, one choice at a time. A VIP package may be added to any ticket, which includes a pre-show Q&A session with the Ninja Kidz. Get ready to PAW-ty like never before during the fantastic new “PAW Patrol Live! A Mighty Adventure” presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and VSTAR on Saturday, August 16th, 2025 and Sunday, August 17th, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. in the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. After Chase, Marshall, Skye and the gang save Adventure City with their Mighty Pup Powers, it's time for the pawsome-est street party ever during this all-new stage production. When supervillain scientist Victoria Vance feels left out of the festivities, she unleashes her latest invention to crash the party and steal the spotlight for herself. Can the Mighty Pups, armed with their super-charged powers, outsmart Victoria to ensure Adventure City's biggest bash goes off without a hitch? It'll take the power of paw-sitivity and mighty teamwork to foil her plans and keep the party pumping. With heroic action, catchy tunes and barkloads of interactive fun, PAW Patrol's electrifying new adventure is sure to leave tails wagging and the audience cheering. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Very Important Pup V.I.P. package includes a premium seat, access to meet and take a photo with PAW Patrol characters after the show and an exclusive souvenir item. The audience is invited to make music with Blippi in the Broward Center’s Au-Rene Theater on Saturday, September 27th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. during the brand new live “Blippi: Join the Band Tour!” as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. Blippi will be joined onstage by Meekah, their singing and dancing buddies and live musicians to explore what makes music, including sounds, rhythms and instruments, through all the favorite Blippi hits. The audiences will want to grab some drumsticks, tune up the guitar and move those feet with Blippi during this musical performance that's fun for the entire family. “Gabby's Dollhouse Live!” Presented by Walmart comes to the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center on Saturday, October 11th, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. This live adaptation of the smash hit Netflix TV show brings a fun new sprinkle-filled adventure, live on stage. In this a-MEOW-zing show, Gabby unboxes a special acorn that needs the magical touch of a rainbow to grow. But when CatRat causes a color cat-astrophe and breaks the rainbow, Gabby and the Gabby Cats must find the colors again to set things right. “Gabby's Dollhouse Live!” Presented by Walmart brings to life an original story featuring incredible puppets, dynamic staging and songs that will have the audiences singing and dancing along from beginning to end. This show is presented by Terrapin Station Entertainment and TEG Life Like Touring, in association with Universal Destinations and Experiences. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. A Cat-tastic VIP experience is available for add-on which includes admission to “Gabby’s Dollhouse Live!” Cat-tastic VIP pre-show party featuring coloring, stickers, temporary tattoos and other hands-on fun. Actors from the DreamWorks Animation series do not appear in the live stage show. This musical adaptation of Dav Pilkey’s “Dog Man” spin-off series, “Cat Kid Comic Club,” comes to the Broward Center’s Amaturo Theater on Sunday, November 2nd, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. This performance is produced by the iconic team that brought audiences “Dog Man: The Musical.” The story follows Cat Kid and Molly Pollywog who started an epic club to teach 21 rambunctious baby frogs how to make their own comics. Their fishy father, Flippy, is overjoyed that his kids will learn to unleash their creativity. When the frogs’ constant bickering and outrageous imaginations send their comics comically off the rails, Flippy flips out. Will the club survive? Will the frogs ever get along? Will creativity finally save the day? All will be answered in this madcap musical based on Dav Pilkey’s irreverently hilarious book series. “Cat Kid Comic Club” features a book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila and music by Brad Alexander, the team that created “Dog Man: The Musical.” This performance is recommended for ages five years and older. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Performance Project present “Seussical” on Friday, December 5th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 6th, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. Tony winners and legendary writers Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, from the likes of “Lucky Stiff,” “My Favorite Year,” “Once on This Island” and “Ragtime,” have lovingly brought to life the most recognizable Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and a little boy with a big imagination – JoJo. Colorful characters transport the audience from the Jungle of Nool to Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. The power of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant. This show features the talents of The Performance Project students and the adult professional actors who mentor them. Audiences are invited to join the cast for a post-show meet and greet. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center's AutoNation Box Office. Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster and their friends from “Sesame Street” are coming to town on Sunday, December 14th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at The Parker as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. During “Sesame Street Live! Elmo & Friends Say Hello,” the audience will sing, dance and play alongside their favorite furry friends, all while following Elmo's puppy, Tango, in a fun game of hide-and-seek. Audiences will want to put on their dancing shoes and head down to where the air is sweet for this all-new celebration on Sesame Street. Please be advised that this show contains flashing lights, haze (fog) and confetti. Everyone in the theater must have a ticket, lap tickets are available for purchase at The Parker Box Office for children 12 months and under. A post-show VIP photo experience and meet-and-greet ticket add-on is available for purchase. Featuring whimsical puppets and live performers in a sweeping oceanic adventure, “The Pout Pout Fish” is a musical underwater adventure that will turn the poutiest of frowns upside down on Sunday, February 1st, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. When Mr. Fish sets out on a quest to find Miss Clam's missing pearl, he discovers there is more to him than his permanently plastered pout. This vibrant, toe-tapping musical follows Mr. Fish, a pouty fish who believes he's destined to spread gloom and doom. With the help of his ocean friends, Mr. Fish discovers that spreading joy and kindness is a much better way to live. This colorful adaptation of the New York Times bestseller is co-conceived, directed and designed by the acclaimed puppeteers of AchesonWalsh Studios, whose work was featured in Broadway's “The King And I,” “On the Town” and Radio City's “New York Spectacular.” The writing team includes New Victory LabWorks Residency recipients Christopher Anselmo, Jared Corak, Matt Acheson and Fergus Walsh. Everyone entering the theater must have a ticket; lap tickets are available for purchase for children 12 months and under at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. It's an unforgettable adventure when a beloved children's book springs to life on stage with “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical” on Sunday March 22 at 1 p.m. at The Parker as part of the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series. This delightful production features vibrant songs, energetic dancing and whimsical puppets, ensuring a joyous experience for kids and adults alike. The playfully adored story unfolds as the alphabet letters ambitiously climb the coconut tree, only to tumble down in a cascade of color and laughter. With plenty of audience interaction and lively performances, this show is a fantastic way for children to explore sound, rhythm and reading in a fun, engaging spectacle. This Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Imagination Series is not offered by subscription. New events will be added to the series throughout the 2025/2026 Season. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com - And: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222. And in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. 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 Broward Center’s 2024/2025 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. Previous Next

Which Way To The Stage: A Playful Yet Profound Modern Relationship Comedy January 31, 2024 Share The biggest performances are the ones we put on for each other. Just ask Broadway superfans Jeff and Judy, the stars of Island City Stage’s Which Way to the Stage. This modern relationship comedy by Ana Nogueira shares the story of the two who eagerly await their idol Idina Menzel after her performance in If/Then at the stage door every night. But when a sexy stranger enters the scene and upends their decades-long friendship, the musical theater aficionados have to go off book to rewrite their own finale. Find out what happens when friendship and ambition collide and when dreams fall just out of reach. Tickets are on sale now for the show which runs through February 11th. Set in 2015, Which Way to the Stage follows outspoken best friends since college Jeff and Judy who are regulars at the stage door and take pride in their vast knowledge of the theater. Aspiring performers themselves, the duo soon face the music inadvertently by revealing the insecurities underneath their carefully constructed facades. As new relationships are formed and the story digs deeper, so does the insightful examination of gender, sexuality, and drag. Do the two ever meet their idol? Can they reconcile their differences of opinion? And what happens next? Ana Nogueira is a Brooklyn-Based Writer and Actress. Which Way to The Stage had its world premiere at MCC Theater in New York City. The play was chosen for the 2019 Kilroy’s List and the Pacific Playwrights Festival at South Coast Rep, where Nogueira was the recipient of the Elizabeth George Emerging Playwright Commission. In 2016, her play Empathitrax premiered Off Broadway at Here Arts Center with the critically acclaimed theater company Colt Coeur, where she is a company member. Her work has been developed at Second Stage, The New Group, SPACE on Ryder Farm and Barrington Stage. Nogueira Co-Wrote and starred in the Short Film We Win, which premiered at the 2018 SXSW Film Festival and won Best Screenplay at the Rhode Island Film Festival. Her acting credits include Bob And Carol And Ted And Alice (The New Group); Engagements, Mala Hierba (both at Second Stage); Bump (Ensemble Studio Theater); Knives And Other Sharp Objects (The Public/LAByrinth); and three seasons on the Starz series Hightown. She is a proud alumnus of the Obie Award-Winning playwriting group Youngblood at Ensemble Studio Theater. Which Way to the Stage is directed by Michael Leeds and stars Matthew Buffalo (Jeff), Sofia Porcel (Judy), Clay Cartland (Mark) and Gaby Tortoledo (Actress/Bachelorette/Casting Director). Which Way to the Stage is sponsored by Co-Producers Russell Vance and The Bears of South Florida, Set Sponsors William Sandrik and Henry Smith, and Lights and Sound sponsor Scott Bennett. Additional funding provided by the following: The Our Fund Foundation, The Schubert Foundation Inc., The SHS Foundation, The Maval Foundation, The Warten Foundation, FlockFest, the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council, and by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts and Culture and the State of Florida. Island City Stage’s 12th Season opened with sold out performances of Love! Valour! Compassion! Other shows this season include Pulp by Patricia Kane; Music by Amy Warren & Andre Pluess with lyrics by Patricia Kane from April 11th – May 5th; Skintight by Joshua Harmon from May 30th – June 23rd and Die! Mommie Die! by Charles Busch from August 29th – September 22nd. Tickets for Which Way to the Stage start at $40. The show runs for two hours and five minutes with one intermission. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.islandcitystage.org - Call: (954) 928-9800. Or email: boxoffice@islandcitystage.org . Follow Island City Stage on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/IslandCityStageFL - And on Instagram at: @islandcitystage1. 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 News Next News >

Make Valentine’s Day Special With Designer Eyewear & Fragrances February 3, 2023 Share Love will be in the air this Valentine’s Day - so shopping early and being ready is a great thing, but even if you're a last minute shopper the experts at Brand International Perfumes can help you find the perfect gift and even gift wrap it! With February 14th coming closer, there is one place you have to make a stop at - to look around and get inspiration from all the romantic gift-giving ideas they have in store. Jacqueline and her team at Brand International Perfumes have gotten into the romantic spirit, they are extending savings right through the end of February on fragrances and eyewear! The friendly staff will help you find the perfect fragrance or gift set for your loved one and while you're shopping they will assist you with finding a fragrance for yourself as well. We all know that finding that new signature scent or a gift for the special people in your life can be a challenge, so why not take all the guesswork out of it and let the professionals help you. This Valentine’s Day Sale will have you smelling great and you can knock out your shopping at the same time, win win! With many of us trying to avoid driving to multiple locations to save on gas. Brand International Perfumes is the one stop for bargains and designer eyewear & fragrances. They have certainly earned the reputation for being the place to go for fragrance gifts for every member of the family and you can guarantee that there will be plenty of convenient parking. You may also be interested in out-of-stock or hard to find fragrances from your favorite designers. The supply chain issue hasn’t affected Brand International, they have all the modern and hard to find fragrances you are looking for at discounted prices. In addition to designer fragrances, you can find some new designer eyewear for that special someone. When it comes to trendy fragrances and fashionable eyewear, nobody has the selection and quality that Brand International Perfumes in Hallandale Beach does. From the time you walk in, you are greeted by the most knowledgeable and friendly team that Jacqueline Kels has put together. This sale will have you smelling great. The fragrance experts at Brand International can help you find that scent that defines you, all at huge discounts. Plus while you are at Brand International, selecting your perfect scent, check out the fabulous designer eyewear and sunglasses. They can even gift wrap your purchase! At Brand International Perfumes this month they will be hard at work to bring you big savings, owner Jacqueline Kels and her knowledgeable staff are making it easier than ever to shop for your special scent and designer eyewear. Jacqueline and her staff have quite a selection of fashionable eyewear in the latest styles. When it comes to frames - everyone is searching for that perfect look that fits their personality. Maybe you saw someone wearing a style that you felt would look great on you - or flipping through a magazine - that pair of glasses happened to be just what you were looking for. Come by and Jacqueline will help you with your selection. “What we want to give our customers is a great selection at lower prices and something that everyone will notice,” Jacqueline explained. “Your eyes are so important - and we make it easier than ever for you to come in, bring your prescription and we will find the perfect frame and will have you looking and feeling great about yourself.” You don’t need to be a fashion expert to find eyeglass frames that look great on you. From designer brand name sunglasses to those frames that everyone is talking about, Brand International has it all - and there is really no reason to drive all over south Florida. Among the trendy frames that everyone is wearing these days - include: Vera Wang, Prada, Chanel, Dolce, Burberry, Oakley, Ray-Ban, Dior, Tiffany, Versace and many more. So with the vast selection of trendy eyewear and thousands of brand name perfumes, the staff will be able to help you find exactly what you are looking for. When it comes to having the best deals, with savings on perfume sets to designer brand name sunglasses, there is really no reason to drive all over. With the guidance from her late husband, Elliot, Jacqueline has put her own signature into this very popular business, creating a vision that both had some years ago. A Large Selection Brand International Perfumes prides itself on getting anything the customer wants. If it is still out there, if it is still being made, Jacqueline will get it. Even if it’s not being made and very hard to find, she probably has it. Living by Elliot’s motto: “If you can’t find it, we may have it.” This is certainly a destination that shoppers head to. The Lowest Prices Around It’s not often that you can purchase quality fragrances at such discounted prices. At Brand International Perfumes, high-end items that go from $150, $200, $300 retail - such as Creed, Flower Bomb by Victor & Rolf - are not found in most discount perfume shops, but Jacqueline carries them at significant discounts, along with the other big names - such as Dolce & Gabbana and Thierry Mughler's to name a few brands. Brand International Perfumes’s customer service is second to none. Come on by and check out top names such as: Maison Francis, Kurkdjian Paris, Amouage, Montale and Juliette Has A Gun to name a few. They are open 7 days, with over two decades of experience Jacqueline and her staff can fit your style and your budget. Brand International Perfumes is located at 121 Northeast 3rd Street, Hallandale Beach Florida 33009. If you don’t have time to stop by the store, give Jacqueline a call at: (954) 457-1969. OUT OF STATE: 1-800-689-1969. Chances are, you will find your favorite fragrance at a tremendous savings. WE SHIP UPS ALL OVER THE USA! < Previous News Next News >

“What’s The Story, Wishbone?” - Heartwarming Documentary Brings Beloved PBS Series To A New Generation Aventura Digest May 20, 2026 On The 30th Anniversary Of Wishbone, Novel Tails In Association With Loud Pictures, Brings Audiences Across North America The Charming Documentary “What’s The Story, Wishbone?” Directed by Joey Stewart (“Wishbone,” “The Night of the White Pants,” “The Seventh Day,” “Walker, Texas Ranger”), the documentary pulls back the curtain on how a small dog with a big imagination brought classic literature to life for millions of kids earning television’s highest achievements the Peabody Award as well as multiple Emmy Awards, and a loyal fanbase around the globe. Featuring the writers, cast and the voice of Wishbone, alongside the creators behind the show, the film explores the ambition, chaos, and lasting impact of one of the most unique children’s series ever made. Watch the trailer at - https://vimeo.com/1178568392 - ahead of the films debut airing on Public Television Stations (formerly known as the Public Broadcasting Service) Wednesday, May 27th, 2026 through Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 – a perfect return home, before it’s TVOD/Digital release on all platforms where you can rent or buy movies across North America on Wednesday, June 10th, 2026. “On the 30th anniversary of Wishbone, I’m excited to pull back the curtain on how this little show became a real cultural phenomenon. I made this film to celebrate its impact and reconnect the audiences who grew up with it in a meaningful way,” states Director Joey Stewart. This incredible behind-the-scenes look at the beloved PBS series that turned classic literature into must-see TV, became a cultural phenomenon for a generation. Featuring rare archival footage, behind-the-scenes stories, and commentary from voices including Mo Rocca (“Bewitched,” “The Good Wife”), George W. Bush, and Dan Rather, as well as Creator/Executive Producer Rick Duffield, Producer Betty Buckley (Emmy and Peabody award winning producer & Founder of Women in Film Dallas) the Voice of Wishbone Larry Brantley (veteran voice actor), Head Writer Stephanie Simpson (BAFTA winning writer of animated series “Arthur,” “Hilda,”), Wishbone’s Trainer Jackie Kaptan, Cast Mary Chris Wall (“Criminal Minds”), Angee Hughes (“Scrubs”),Jeanne Simpson (“Joan of Arc”), Matt Tompkins (“Frankenstein”), Production Designer Chris Henry (“Talk Radio”), Costume Designer Steven Chudej (“Raising Arizona”), Makeup & Hair Designer Gigi Coker (“Eight Men Out”), Post Production Supervisor Mike Losurdo Jr. (“Sea Warriors: The Royal Navy in the Age of Sail”),and Visual Effects Supervisor Caris Turpin (“Howard the Duck”). “For most of my professional life I have been asked the question, “What was it like working on Wishbone?” After 30 years I can finally say, watch this film,” states Producer & Voice of Wishbone Larry Brantley. The documentary shares how the series captured the imagination of audiences—and why it’s influence still resonates decades later. The film offers a uniquely personal perspective on the making of the show. “What’s The Story, Wishbone?” clocks in at just under 90 minutes from the team who helmed the original award-winning series – directed by Joey Stewart (“Wishbone,” “The Night of the White Pants,” “The Seventh Day,” “Walker, Texas Ranger”), produced by Betty Buckley (Emmy and Peabody award winning producer & founder of Women in Film Dallas), Joey Stewart, Larry Brantley (veteran voice actor and the voice of “Wishbone”), Stephanie Simpson (BAFTA winning writer of animated series “Arthur,” “Hilda,” and writer of “Wishbone”). Producer Betty Buckley shares “Producing Wishbone was such a joy in every way. Revisiting this iconic series and reflecting on the experience that inspired a love of reading in children is something I’m incredibly excited to share with audiences.” Originally airing in the mid-1990s, Wishbone reimagined classic works of literature through the adventures of a Jack Russell Terrier, introducing a generation of kids to stories ranging from Sherlock Holmes to The Odyssey. This documentary revisits the creative team behind the series and reveals how an ambitious idea became a lasting cultural touchstone. Through the voices of the writers, directors, producers, and cast, this film explores how it all came together—and how something that felt chaotic at the time ended up meaning so much to an entire generation. Find the film in your market or your preferred platform at: www.whatsthestorywishbone.com and follow the film on Instagram: @thewishbonedocumentary. And on Facebook: @wishbonedocumentary. About Novel Tails: Novel Tails is an independent production banner founded by filmmaker Joey Stewart, along with Betty Buckley and Larry Brantley, focused on character-driven storytelling with a nostalgic and cultural lens. The company develops and produces original documentary and narrative projects designed to connect with audiences across generations. Visit: www.noveltails.com About Loud Pictures: Loud Pictures is a Dallas-based production company specializing in commercial, branded, and narrative content, known for its collaborative approach and strong visual storytelling. Visit: www.loudpictures.com Previous Next

Half Of Americans Feel More Comfortable Using AI In Their Finances Now, Compared To A Year Ago South Florida Sun Times May 22, 2025 (BPT) - New Research From Empower Explores How Americans Are Seeing The "AI Advantage" With Nearly Half Of Americans (47%) Feeling More Comfortable Using The Tool In Their Financial Lives Compared To A Year Ago. Some 56% of people say they would use AI to recommend money moves to plan for retirement, provide tips to consolidate debt 58% and help with budgeting 54%. Importantly, 62% of Americans value the human component of financial advice, especially for significant financial decisions like investing. Many Americans see AI as a powerful tool to complement human expertise in financial decision-making: 61% say they would use AI alongside human financial advisors to achieve better results. AI at work AI is becoming a regular part of the modern workplace, with 58% of Americans currently using AI tools in some capacity while on the job. Among these users, 60% rely on AI mainly for writing and other content-generation tasks. While AI adoption is growing, more than a third, 34% say they do not use AI at work. Others are uncertain about their company's policy on AI usage at the office, 38%. AI is indispensable for some - 28% of Americans, including 29% of Millennials and 27% of Gen Z, can't imagine working without these tools. But there is hesitation around adoption: Only 15% of Americans have received AI-specific training at work and 14% avoid AI altogether due to fears it may one day replace their job. Gen Z employees are leveraging AI to support their professional growth and workplace readiness: Over half of them, 52% use AI tools to build or edit their resumes, streamlining the job application process. Nearly half of Gen Zers, 47% use AI to prepare for important presentations, while 43% rely on it to practice for job interviews. Methodology: The Empower "AI Advantage" study is based on online survey responses from 1,009 Americans ages 18+ fielded in December 2024. Previous Next

Chanukah Festival 2022: Annual “Fried & Ribo” Event Hits South Florida November 17, 2022 Share In honor of Shnas Hakhel, the Biblical Year of Gathering, Chabad of South Broward is going all out with its Annual Chanukah Festival, hosting together for the first time in America, the dynamic duo of Avraham Fried and Ishay Ribo, who will be bringing their magical Annual Chanukah Show to the shores of Miami. For the first time, the 7,000 seat Seminole Hard Rock Concert Hall in Hollywood, Florida, will be the venue of the Annual Chanukah Concert hosted by Chabad of South Broward, led by Executive Director, Rabbi Raphael Tennenhaus. The Concert will feature the dynamic duo of the two greatest contemporary Jewish singers from Israel and the United States, Avraham Fried and Ishay Ribo. The two share a close bond and will be singing together one week before, at the Annual Chabad Hosted “Tzamah” Event at Binyanei Haumah in Yerushalayim. Avraham Fried Avraham Shabsi Hakohen Friedman better known by his stage name, Avraham Fried, a popular musical entertainer in the Orthodox Jewish Community. Fried was encouraged towards a music career by Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Rebbe of Lubavitch and by Mordechai Ben David. Fried began his career with the release of his first album "No Jew Will Be Left Behind" in 1981. The title song was composed by Yossi Green and the song “Kel Hahodaos” was written by Kol Salonica. Fried went on to collaborate with Green on eight albums. Green is credited with some of Fried’s biggest hits, including “Aderaba,” “Tanya” and “Didoh Bei.” His music is mostly categorized as Pop Jewish Music, similar to Mordechai Ben David and tends to integrate many styles of popular music, including: Pop, Rock and Jazz with Jewish lyrics and themes. He also has a few “cantor” style songs on most of his albums, as well as many songs written in Yiddish. He sings his Yiddish songs with a Chabad flavor. Ishay Ribo Ishay was born and raised in France and at the age of 13 he began writing songs, composing and recording them in his home. He learned to play the guitar at 18. In 2014, he launched his debut album, "Tocho Ratzuf Ahava," which was certified Gold for selling more than 25,000 copies in Israel. At the same time, the song "Kol Dodi" reached the number one spot for Israeli Religious Radio Stations. Ishay has collaborated on singles and performances with prominent Israeli artists, including: Shlomo Artzi, Idan Raichel and David D'or, as well as famous Jewish Musicians: Avraham Fried, Yaakov Shwekey, Mordechai Ben David, Yonatan Razel, among others. Ishay Ribo participated in the three "Tzama" project albums, which showcase Chabad melodies. In 2016, he released his second album, "Pachad Gvahim," which also achieved Gold album certification. At the same time, Ishay also worked on collaborations with Composer Yossi Green, as well as a new single with Moti Steinmetz. He managed to break down sectarian walls on his way to the top, in his own way, by mixing a unique combination of spiritual influences, catchy and inspirational Western melodies and his one-of-a-kind, soft voice. This has made Ribo one of the most prominent and beloved young artists in the Israeli Music Scene, with millions of YouTube views and his third album "Shetah Afor" that become one of the most intriguing on the charts. The Dynamic Duo For the last five years, Fried and Ribo have been hosting a 12,000 person joint Chanukah Concert in Israel, night after night. The show was supposed to hit New York last winter but had to be canceled at the last minute due to the third wave of Corona and the lockdown in Israel. This year, for the first time ever, the two are heading out directly from the Israeli Concert to the shores of Miami. Flying together from Israel with an enormous team of 14 musicians and an entire staff of light and sound technicians, a production team, directors and stage managers, as well as the videographers and photographers. Rabbi Tennenhuas told numerous media outlets: “The Rebbe gave us a special Brachah for our Chanukah Festivals that they should continuously grow each year. We have merited to see the fulfillment of the Rebbe’s Brachah - over time; the event has attracted tens of thousands of participants. Inspired by the Rebbe’s call to initiate gatherings of Yidden in honor of Shnas Hakhel, this year we have gone all out.” Considering the enormous costs of the event this year, for the first time, tickets will be sold at various rates to accommodate the entire community and beyond. In addition, there are opportunities for sponsorships, with perks including front-row seats or couches, an ad in the program directory, a meet and greet with Ishay Ribo and Avraham Fried and a deluxe dinner before the festival. Tickets and sponsorships are available on the event website: www.Chanukahfestival.com < Previous News Next News >