Celebrating Black History

February is Black History Month, also known as African American History Month. It is an annual observance in the United States and Canada that celebrates the achievements and contributions of black individuals. First recognized in February of 1926 when historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History announced the second week of February as "Negro History Week."

Over the years, the celebration expanded to an entire month, and in 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month. "I call upon the public and the press to recognize the important contributions of black history in the history of the United States," he said.

But the history of Black History Month extends even further back. In 1915, black community leaders in Chicago held the first "Negro History Week" to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Organized by a group known as the "Committee of Ten," which included prominent figures such as W.E.B. Du Bois, Mary McLeod Bethune, and Carter G. Woodson.

Since its inception, Black History Month has been a time to recognize and honor the countless black leaders and activists who have made significant contributions to society. "A people without the knowledge of their history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots," said Marcus Garvey, a Jamaican-born black nationalist leader.

As we celebrate Black History Month, it is essential to remember and recognize the struggles and triumphs of the black community. It is also a time to reflect on our progress and the work that still needs to be done toward racial equality.

Sincerely,

Christy & Terry Jaillet

February 1

All-Star Hockey Festival

The NHL All-Star Weekend returns to South Florida! Residents are invited for a day of activities at the Panthers IceDen in Coral Springs. Outdoor activities open to the public: music, food trucks, games, street hockey, bounce houses and more. Learn to skate (register in advanced)

4:45 - 5:45 pm. Public skating 6:00 pm till 9:00 pm. Hosted at the Florida Panthers Ice Den, 3299 Sportsplex Drive. For info visit www.panthersiceden.com.

FEBRUARY 2-5

Saint Demetrios Greek Festival

Celebrate the largest and happiest party given by Greek Americans in Fort Lauderdale. Come to the Fort Lauderdale Greek Festival to be fed, entertained, and enlightened about Greek culture and heritage. Visit all the booths and try delicious, homemade foods and pastries. In the true spirit of “Filoxenia,” that is, hospitality, we welcome you and pray your stay with us will be enjoyable.

Thursday: 5 – 10pm, Friday: 12 – 11pm, Saturday: 12 – 11pm, Sunday: 12 – 7pm. Hosted at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 820 NE 14th Ave. For more info call 954-467-1515.

February 1

STOMP

STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered an armful of awards and rave reviews, and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. Hosted at the Coral Springs Center For The Arts. Scan the QR code for tickets or more info.

February 4

Senior Lifestyle Expo

The City of Cooper City is hosting its annual Senior Lifestyle Expo event which highlights Cooper City’s services and programs, providing valuable information, resources and products adding to the lifestyle of our area seniors. Admission to the Expo is free with complimentary refreshments provided to attendees. Raffles held throughout event and light snacks and beverages will be available. 10:00 am - 1:00 pm, Cooper City High School Cafeteria - 9401 Stirling Road.

February 11

Stay Fit

Get your bikini body back for the New Year! Boot camp workouts every Saturday. Led by personal trainer Susan Malinski, these sessions will get your blood flowing and set you off with a positive mindset. For more info call 954-2452071 or visit www.SusanMalinski.com.

February 13

Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society

Come hear about Cattleya Hybrids from Omar Gonzalez who is a Chemist by trade and a Botanist at heart. Omar's presentation for tonight will be "Differences in Cattleya Hybrids and How These Differences Can Be Useful in a Home Setting" .Come learn about Orchids, meet other orchid hobbyist and have a great evening. Meeting in the Mary N.Porter Learning Center at Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330. Doors Open at 7:00pm, Program begins at 7:30pm.

February 14

Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day! Celebrate with someone you love! The holiday is named after Saint Valentine, a Christian saint who is believed to have been martyred for secretly marrying couples in ancient Rome during a time when marriage was forbidden. Valentine's Day is now celebrated in many countries around the world, although the way it is celebrated can vary significantly from place to place.

February 17

Michael Carbonaro: Lies On Stage

Best known as the star and executive producer of the hit series, THE CARBONARO EFFECT, Michael Carbonaro has also headlined incredible stage performances. Now he is back with a brand-new show which will continue to showcase his unmatched blend of humor and charisma along with brand new illusions which will amaze audiences of all ages. Hosted at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts. Scan the QR code for info or tickets.

February 17

Movies in the Park

Catch a movie outdoors at Volunteer Park! The City of Plantation Parks & Recreation Department and Baptist Health present “Movies in the Park”, a series of FREE movies shown at different parks on the third Friday of every month November 2022 - February 2023. The gates open at 5:30 PM and the movie starting at dark. The movie that will be showing in February is Encanto (PG | 1 Hr. 49 Min.). Families can bring their lawn chairs and blankets to set out in their space and there will be light snacks, candy and drinks available for purchase (cash ONLY). For more information please call (954) 452-2510.

FEBRUARY 24-26

86th Annual Orange Blossom Festival, Parade & Rodeo

Hold your horses and come on down! Join your neighbors and help The Town of Davie celebrate the 85th annual Orange Blossom Festival. Events will take place at the Bamford Sports Complex. There will be a parade, concerts, Kiwanis Pancake breakfast and so much more. For more info scan the QR Code.

February 25

James Taylor & His All-Star Band

James Taylor is the archetypal singer/ songwriter, who helped create the template for the troubadour style that dominated the 1970s. When he brings his blend of folk, pop, rock, and soul influences to the stage, it's Broward Center’s Annual Celebration in February, it will be like a part of history is unfolding before the crowd, with enough tuneful energy to generate some major goodtime vibes. Hosted at the Au-Rene Theater at The Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Scan the QR code for info & tickets.

February 20

Presidents’ Day

Presidents Day was originally established in 1885 to recognize the efforts of the United State’s first President, George Washington. It was later broadened to recognize President Abraham Lincoln and now all of our Presidents. The Federal Holiday is a good time to reflect on civic service.