Sun Times Issue 12 01 22

Audiences Of All Ages

Celebrate

A beloved holiday musical tra dition is returning to South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO)! Sebrina Maria Alfonso will conduct Handel’s glorious holiday favorite, Messiah! This beloved seasonal masterpiece featuring soloists Neil Nelson, bass baritone; Gerardo Ortega, tenor; Brittany Graham, soprano; Stephanie Newman, mezzosoprano and the South Florida Symphony Chorus will com mence on December 3, at 7:30 p.m., at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale and on December 4, at 4 p.m., at Barry University in Miami.

Smithsonian magazine writes, “A musical rite of the holiday season, the Baroque-era oratorio still awes listeners 250 years after the composer’s death.” Handel’s popular work, which draws from the Christian Lent and Easter stories, encompasses a musical narrative brilliance that transcendsbeliefsystems.”

“South Florida Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to bring back Handel’s Messiah and share the joy of time-honored classics to launch the holiday season in grand musical style,” said Jacqueline Lorber, President and Audiences, Page 6A

South Florida Kids Got Talent

Talented Young Singers Are Invited To Audition Next Week

Tri-Rail, South Florida’s pre mier commuter rail system, invites talented kids ages 5 to 17 to audition for “South Florida’s Kids Got Talent,” a singing com petition held as part of Tri-Rail’s “Rail Fun Day.” Young singers from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties are encouraged to audition for the chance to compete in the judged event. Auditions will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 10th, 2022 at the Galleria Mall in Fort Lauderdale, located at 2414 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale,Florida33004.

“Tri-Rail is proud to showcase the amazing talent of kids from

Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade Counties,” said David Dech, Executive Director, SFRTA/Tri-Rail. “This annual tra dition highlights the importance of our train system by bringing families together from all over the Tri-County area, just as we do for ourpassengerseveryday.”

The singing competition is open to solo or group singers who are South Florida residents ages five through 17. Each act will have a four-minute oppor tunity to perform at the auditions. A panel of judges will select the

“RailFunDay.”

During the January 2022 Competition, Ilan Tarrab won the hearts of the audience and judges with his smooth retro style, earning him the $500 Grand Prize, one-year contract inclusive of a photo shoot with composite cards courtesy of Posche Models & Talent and pro fessional studio recording ses sionswithMikeSoperMusic.

Over the past several years, Tri-Rail’s “Rail Fun Day” has wel comed more than 25,000 chil dren and families. The event has

Have A Loved One With Dementia?

Holiday Travel Tips To Make It Smooth And Comfortable

Let the airline know that you’re traveling with someone who has memory impairment and inform them of safety concerns and special needs

With one of the busiest travel times of the year approaching — and an estimated 54.6 million Americans planning to travel more than 50 miles during the long Thanksgiving holiday week end, according to AAA — the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is offering tips to help families traveling with a loved one with a Dementia - related ill ness make their trip as smooth andcomfortableaspossible.

“Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and the normal challenges of travel are amplified for someone living with a Dementia - related illness, which is why families need to be proactive and pre pare,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s President and CEO. “Regardless of how far you’re traveling, taking a few simple steps in advance can go a long way to making the trip easier, more comfortable and more enjoyableforeveryone.”

Before the trip: Make sure travel is advisable. Someone in the early stages of Dementia may still enjoy trav gresses, it may become too

Stage

954:

December in Dania Beach is filled with live concert perform ances at Stage 954, one of the hottest concert venues in BrowardCountyforlivemusic.

At the beginning of the month is SoulTown To MoTown featur ing The Sensational Soul

One Of The Hottest Venues In Broward For Live Music

Cruisers on Saturday, December 3rd, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. “Soultown to Motown” is the new show for 2022 from The Sensational Soul Cruisers. This 11 piece, choreo graphed band delivers a show that has audiences on their feet, singing and dancing to the great

Isaac Hayes, Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops and so many others. It is a full multi-media show with an incredible live band that many described as a cross between Kool and the Gang, Chicago and

“Soultown to Motown” will take you on a musical journey from Memphis to Philly to Detroit. The music that reflected a generation that wanted to be heard…and they were! Tickets are $30-$35

Next up is An Intimate Evening with Jeffrey Osborne on Sunday, December 4th, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. Five decades into a

AVENTURA • BAL HARBOUR • DANIA BEACH • HALLANDALE BEACH • HOLLYWOOD • NORTH MIAMI BEACH • PEMBROKE P

The Season With Beloved Traditional Holiday Music South Florida Symphony Orchestra to perform Handel’s Messiah

South Florida Kids Got Talent auditions will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 10

(L) Absolute Queen (M) An Intimate Evening with Jeffrey Osborne (R) SoulTown To MoTown featuring The Sensational Soul Cruisers

genre-crossing and prolific career, Osborne’s chart-topping hits include: “On The Wings Of Love,” “Back In Love Again,” “Love Ballad” and more. The specialbenefitconcertreturnsby popular demand to raise funds for the non-profit that provides uplifting, girl-centric program ming for hundreds of girls in pub lic and private elementary and middle schools in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Tickets are$65-$150perperson.

Where else can you hold a beauty contest in the middle of December? The Lady Of World International Beauty Contest will grace South Florida on Stage 954 on Saturday, December 10th, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. Watch and root for your favorite inter national beauty as they compete for the prestigious title, Lady Of The World. Tickets are $30-$50 and VIP Tables are $125 per per son.

One of the most iconic bands of all time will be honored with ‘Absolute Queen,’ the most authentic Queen Tribute Show band on the planet. Absolute Queen has spent hundreds of hours in the studio studying Queen’s many layered harmony vocals and instrumentation to bring you the most authentic sounding Queen Live experience. The show is more than just a Queen Tribute band, the music and stage production will blow you away. The Oscar Winning Bohemian Rhapsody film’s suc cess has elevated Queen music to a whole new level and has

exposed them to a new genera tion of fans. They are excited to play the entire movie soundtrack at every show plus all of the hits!

This show is returning to Stage 954 on Thursday, December 15th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m.

Performing the beloved band’s iconic hits and meticulously reproducing layered harmonies and instrumentation, the per formance has been blowing audiences away for years and will contiune for many years to come. Tickets are $25-$30 and VIPTablesare$60perperson.

Have you ever thought that you could live the Pink Floyd Experience in your city? Get ready, that moment has come with PRISMA - The Pink Floyd Experience, the Latin American band that reproduces faithfully the essence of Pink Floyd. In the middle of the month PRISMA will

Retiree Class Over Zoom

United Jewish Generations has developed a program that retirees and seniors can enjoy from the comfort of their own home. The Levi Yitzchok Senior Academy is an interactive Zoom class on Judaic topics with many seniors participating and interacting together online. You can stimulate your mind, connect to your heritage, and recive a monthlystipend.

Their newest course is called “Jewish History in a FLASH,” will be starting on Thursday, Dec 1st at 3PM online. Join us and you may gain more knowledge in these 4 classes than you gained in years of Hebrew School! We are honored to have International Lecturer, Ronnie Halibard, the course author, to present thispowerfulcourse.

There is a fee of $72 to join, but there are scholarships that can cover that fee. The classes will take place on Dec 1, 8, 15 and29thfrom3pm-4pm.

perform Pink Floyd’s timeless classics on Friday, December 16th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m.

Composed of nine extraordinarily talented musicians who are pas sionately dedicated to carrying on Pink Floyd’s legacy, PRISMA will perform songs from classic albums such as: “The Wall,” “The Dark Side Of The Moon,” “Animals” and “The Division Bell.” Without a doubt you’ll be seeing the most passionate inter pretation of Pink Floyd’s music. Tickets are $35-$45 and VIP Tablesare$65perperson.

The always hilarious Marvin Dixon, comedian extraordinaire who makes people laugh all over the United States and beyond is back by popular demand. Marvin will be joined by Special Guest Comedians: Malik S., Damon

Williams and Ashima Franklin for the Marvin Dixon: 50 Shades of Comedy “The 30th Anniversary Edition”

Who remembers the 80’s?

Well if you are a fan of that era this is the band to see. Los Angeles based STRANGELOVEThe Depeche Mode Experience delivers a career spanning, pitch perfect “best of” concert that transports the listener through time and touches on several key points in Depeche Mode’s 40+ year career. Songs from through out the Depeche Concert are lov ingly recreated; from favorites on DM’s debut Speak and Spell to the newest fare from ‘Mode’s lat est- 2017’s “Spirit.” No detail of

STRANGELOVE – The Depeche Mode Experience will also have a Special Guest, Electric Duke – A David Bowie Tribute. Both artists will be taking the stage on Friday, December 30th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. The fullproduction, arena-scaled per formance recreates a classic-era Depeche Mode concert and the audience will be mesmerized by Julian Sah-Tayler’s impeccable tribute to David Bowie which pairs flawlessly with its fellow British band. Tickets are $27-$32 and VIP tables are $65 per per son.

For ticket information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/Stage954/ Or call: (954) 920-1511.

Joseph A. SCARANO

on Saturday, December 17th, 2022 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35-$40 and a VIP Table is $75 perperson.

STRANGELOVE’s presentation has been overlooked. The visual presentation with stage set pieces and in-show costume changes reflecting different eras ofDepecheMode’sstory.

Comedian Extraordinaire Marvin Dixon

STRANGELOVE – The Depeche Mode Experience

Audiences

Sebrina

at

entation

The esteemed South Florida Symphony, celebrat ing its 25th anniversary of artistic excellence, launched its 2022/23 season on November 9 at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale and on November 10 New World Center in Miami Beach. This outstanding season will fea ture classical masterworks including Shostakovich’s final “War Symphony,” No. 9, Brahms’s doubly demanding Concerto for Violin and Cello and an all-Dvorˇák program with audience favorite – and performer during the Symphony’s inaugural con cert - Zuill Bailey. Additionally, honoring its commitment to presenting new works, SFSO will present its third world premiere by composer-inresidence John Gottsch: the Florida-inspired Ocklawaha. The South Florida Symphony Chorus

Tickets start at $20 for the December 4 performance at Barry University’s Shepard & Ruth K. Broad Performing Arts Center (11300 NE 2nd Ave in Miami Shores) and can be ordered online at https:// southfloridasymphony.org/ handels-messiah or via phone at (954) 522-8445. Student tickets and group rates are also avail able by calling: (954) 522-8445 or emailing: info@southflorida

celebrating its 25th Anniversary season. SFSO is dedicated to providing enriching cultural music experiences to residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative program ming and transformative edu cational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communi ties, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of 100,000 students since its incep tion in 1997. SFSO was recently named the first Partner in the Arts for The Parker by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored. For a perform ance schedule and season tick ets, visit southfloridasymphony .org, call (954) 522-8445 or email info@southfloridasymphony.org.

The Judds: ‘The Final Tour’ is Coming To Hollywood

means to be individualists in the music business. The Judds

touring in the 80s

20 Top 10 hits, sold more than 20 million albums and blazed a trail

duos

Yes, ‘The Final Tour’ is coming to Hollywood on, February 25th, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. as part of their final tour. The explosive first run of the tour saw generations of Judds fans singing along to the duo’s most enduring and beloved hits. Wynonna, along with the help of many of her musical friends, including Ashley McBryde, Brandi Carlile, Kelsea Ballerini, Little Big Town and Martina McBride - who will all be returning for the second run,

women who have followed them. Together, The Judds have 16 Gold, Platinum, Multi-Platinum albums and long-form videos, led by two-time Platinum albums, “Why Not Me” and “The Judds Greatest Hits.” Their stripped-back style revived the popularity of acoustic sounds in country music and opened up the

Tickets went on sale this past Friday, started at $85 and all seats are reserved. Tickets are available at: www.myhrl.com.

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like... December 4th!

Florida’s first ‘Christmassy’ Day of 2022 Will Be in the First Week of December

Data over the last 26 years identified which date would feel most like Christmas in terms of the weather in Florida, that was December 31st

When would you say Christmas officially begins? Is it straight after Thanksgiving, when we start thinking about the next turkey to land on our plate? Is it when the first decorations appear in stores (and, let’s face it, some start showing up the minute the Halloween pumpkins are put away)! Some mark it by the first sound of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” going on heavy rotation on the radio, or showings of movies such as Elf, A Muppet Christmas Carol, or Home Alone appearing on TV schedules. So, is it pos sible to pinpoint an actual day that feels the most like Christmas isbeginning?

Travel experts, FamilyDesti nationsGuide.com wanted to find out, and surveyed over 3,000 respondents. They found that Floridians typically feel December 4th is the first ‘Christmassy’ day of the holiday season - when they really start to get into the Christmas spirit. Perhaps it’s when they go out to buy a tree, start hanging decorations, or grab a red-cup coffee from Starbucks’ annual festive menu.

By the 4th of the month, staff Christmas parties will already start being arranged, and fami lies will be making plans for gettogetherstocelebrate.

Something that definitely makes things feel more Christmassy, at least in many US states, is the weather. There’s nothing like wrapping up warm in coats, scarves and gloves and heading out into the snow, for

sledding, snowball fights, or an atmospheric walk. On that basis, FamilyDestinationsGuide.com also identified, based on data over the last 26 years, which date would feel most like Christmas in terms of the weather. In Florida, that was December 31st, when it was most likely to be the coldest - the average temperature is just 42°F in the North, whilst it only drops

to64°FinSouthernFlorida.

If you live in a more northern state, these kinds of conditions will come as no surprise. In fact, you may be expecting a White Christmas, and planning to enjoy the traditional events that accompany it. In Delaware, for example, which has a large Swedish population, kids leave out milk on Christmas Eve for the mischievous and mysterious

Tomte spirit – an imp-like crea ture who is said to leave gifts for good girls and boys. And Chicago has the best-known Christkindlmarkt – or Christmas Market – in America. Based on a classic German holiday street market, the Christkindlmarkt offers dozens of stalls selling things like artisanal crafts, gifts, tree decorations, giant pretzels and gingerbread, and, a holiday must,glühwein!

But what if you live some where with a warmer climate (like Arizona, Hawaii or Florida)? Well, there might not be much snow, but there are still fun ways to celebrate the season. Although many holiday traditions are the same across most states, some make the most of their sunny weather with Christmastime celebrations that are a little less ordinary. In Florida, aptly-named the Sunshine State, an event called Deck the Chairs is held on Jacksonville Beach, where vol unteers decorate the famous red chairs with beautiful, festive light displays. And - where else - in California, you’ll find the Surfing Santa competition in the sunny city of Laguna Niguel in Orange County, where surfers enter wearing wearing white beards and Santa hats and proceeds go to charity. Merry 4th of December,andMerryChristmas,toall!

CEO of South Florida Symphony Orchestra. “With soaring vocals, masterful arrangements and compelling storytelling, this pres

is truly an inspirational musical experience for the whole family.”

To elevate the holiday spirit, the evening opens with glorious sounds of the season, including

Schubert’s Ave Maria; Pietro Yon’s Italian Christmas carol, “Gesù Bambino;” Mendelssohn’s “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” and more followed by Part I of Handel’s Messiah. The perform ance culminates with the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus as sung by

the South Florida Symphony Chorus, made-up of seasoned chorale singers and community talent. The Chorus is conducted by Dr. Giselle Elgarresta Rios, who will also lead the orchestra

the December 4 concert at Barry University. Rios and Maestra Alfonso collaborated to create the South Florida Symphony Chorus in 2019, which made its debut at the Beethoven 250th celebration in Februaryof2020.

will expand its repertoire, once again, performing one of the greatest large chorale works of its day, Bruckner’s majestic Te Deum.

Tickets for Handel’s Messiah start at $15 for the December 3 concert at The Parker (707 NE 8th St, Fort Lauderdale) and can be purchased online at: https:// southfloridasymphony.org/handelsmessiah or via the Broward Center for the Performing Arts Box Office at: (954) 462-0222.

symphony.org.

About South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra

María Alfonso, the now Wilton Manors-based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is

From Page 1A

Neil Nelson, Stephanie Newman, Gerardo Ortega, & Brittany Graham will be featured vocalists in South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Handel’s Messiah

Sebrina María Alfonso and Dr. Giselle Elgarresta Rios will lead the South Florida Symphony Orchestra and Chorus

“The Judds: The Final Tour,” with special guest Martina McBride, will also include appearances by Brandi Carlile, Ashley McBryde, Kelsea Ballerini, Little Big Town, Trisha Yearwood and Faith Hill on select tour dates

Wynonna and Naomi Judd The Judds are often celebrated

for a rarely-interrupted stretch of 14 Number 1 hits when every single of theirs released by RCA landed in the Billboard Top 10 and a career that defined what it

dominated

with

for

and

genre for more traditional approaches.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

Santa will be making his list and checking it twice! From Nov. 26 – Dec. 24, 2022, Santa Claus is making scheduled visits to Gulfstream Park Village, where families are invited to partake in the festivities and share their Christmas wish lists with the jolly oldelf.

Available on a first come, first serve basis, Santa will be sta tioned in the ground level Village Center on select dates from 6-9 p.m. and from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. on December 10. While in line, families can enjoy music and the open-air lifestyle center’s Symphony in Lights festival run ning daily through Dec. 31. With the grounds illuminated in more than 250,000 LED lights, this amazing spectacle will be set to the sounds of holiday favorites from yesterday and today. A 10minute light show takes place at the top of every hour from 6-11 p.m. and will feature snow for a magicaleffect.

In addition to visiting with Santa and taking in the aweinspiring ‘Symphony in Lights’, families can also enjoy shopping, dining and boundless entertain ment at Gulfstream Park Village’s open-air setting. The center’s 11 distinct home stores, including BoConcept, Crate & Barrel, Williams-Sonoma, West Elm, Pottery Barn, Z Gallerie, The Container Store, Bang & Olufsen and many others, offer the very best in holiday décor, entertain ing and gifts. Dining destinations, including Yard House, Texas de Brazil, Christine Lee’s, Pastry Is Art, Häagen-Dazs and more offer a delicious break from holiday shopping. A full directory of shops, restaurants and entertain ment can be viewed at

Dementia

From Page 1A

overwhelming. Depending on the trip duration and/or the stage of the person’s illness, consult with their physician to make sure travelisadvisable.

Plan around the person’s abilities. Plan the travel mode and timing of your trip in a man ner that causes the least amount of anxiety and stress. Account for the person, their abilities, and needs when making arrange ments; if they travel better at a specific time of day, consider planning your trip accordingly to yourneeds.

www.gulfstreampark.com.

When Saturday, Dec. 3 Saturday, Dec. 10 (6:30-9:30 p.m.) Saturday, Dec. 17 Tuesday, Dec. 20 Wednesday, Dec. 21 Saturday, Dec. 24

Santa visits take place 6-9 p.m. except for December 10 where the visit will be from 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Preserve the person’s routine. Small or unfamiliar changes can be overwhelming and stressful to someone with Dementia, so to the greatest extent possible, pre serve the person’s routine. For example, if they normally eat around a certain time, build that intotheitinerary.

Stock up before leaving. Bring snacks, water, activities and other comfort items (i.e., a blan ket or the person’s favorite sweater), as well as an extra, comfortable change of clothing to adapt to climate changes. Take important health and legalrelated documentation, a list of current medications, and phy sicianinformationwithyou.

Gulfstream Park Village 901 S. Federal Hwy Hallandale Beach, FL 33009

For more information about this FREE event, visit: https:// www.gulfstreampark.com/events/

If traveling by mass transit: Know the security pro cedures. Inquire in advance with airports/train stations about security screening procedures. This way, you can familiarize the person beforehand about what will happen at the checkpoint to reduce potential anxiety. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) can offer assistance with the screening process to air travelers with cer tainmedicalconditions,including Dementia-related illnesses; con tact their TSA Cares Helpline at least 72 hours prior to your flight tolearnmore.

Advise the airline. Let the air line know that you’re traveling

track. Gulfstream Park not only offers world-class Thoroughbred horse racing but also is home to a casino and family-friendly ven ues including over 15 restau rants, outdoor cafes, art galler ies, fashion retailers, state-of-

with someone who has memory impairment and inform them of safety concerns and special needs.

If traveling by car: Plan your trip accordingly. Build in break time. Take regular breaks on road trips for food, bathroomvisits,andrest.

Families with questions about trav eling with someone who has a dementia-related illness can speak with a licensed social worker through the AFA Helpline by phone (866-232-8484), text message (646-586-5283), or webchat (www.alzfdn.org). The helpline is available seven days a week.

Hallandale Beach, just two miles east of I-95. Valet service, com plimentary self-parking are avail able. It is open 7 days/week. For upcoming events and more info, visit: www. gulfstreampark.com orcall:954-454-7000.

TheAlzheimer’sFoundationof America (AFA) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related Dementias nationwide and to fund research for better treat ment and a cure. Its services include a National Toll-Free Helpline (866-232-8484) staffed by licensed social workers, the National Memory Screening Program, educational confer ences and materials, and “AFA Partners in Care” Dementia care training for healthcare profes sionals. For info about AFA, call: 866-232-8484orvisit:alzfdn.org

Gulfstream Park Village is Spreading Holiday Magic with Visits from Santa with Snow & Music on Select Dates This HolidaySeason.

Voting For A Bright Future

New Commissioners, Vice Mayor & Holiday Lighting In Hallandale Beach

By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper

Over the past years our city has not budgeted for Holiday Lights. Obviously, we had gone thru Covid over two years but before then the city budget was so unstable the commission did not want to spend the money on items that were not core serv ices.

Commissioner Lazarow, in the last budget had asked for fund ing, but we were just getting out of Covid and unsure whether we could pay our bills with the eco nomic crisis and inflation. This year she asked, and I also pushed for funding. We thought we had gotten it done for this holiday but turns out we were told vendors needed more lead timefororders.

Until two weeks ago we had been telling interested residents the lights would be for the next holiday. City Manager Dr. Earle and our staff worked with our budget and the vendors, and we have been told the Holiday Lights will happen. These are not the only lights that will be dis played.

On Monday, the commission approved an extension for the placement of Holiday Displays on City Hall property. For years while I was on the dais, we had placed a menorah and manger scene at city hall. This is not just our practice but many cities and even the White house embrace our diverse beliefs. We even hosted a lighting ceremony for the young students at the Chabbad Seminary School. Over the recent years the practice was not recognized. With the horrible rise in antisemitism we need to move back to a more civil acceptingsociety.

Current commissioners were unawarethattherewasanestab lished policy to allow outside individuals to place displays on their own. The policy was estab lished when we had an individual

were extremely upset. We actu ally either had to allow it or would have to remove the dis plays. At that time, I spoke with the city manager and said let the person do it. In other words, I did not think it was proper to allow one individual to ruin our holiday spirit.

A policy was put in place with a deadline to apply as of November 1st. The Chabbad was also unaware of the policy and asked permission to place a display in front of city hall for this Hanukah. Commissioner Annabelle Lima-Taub and I sponsored an item in order to allow displays and requested the deadline be adjusted this year to December 1st.Itpassedunanimously.

In other news the commission had its organizational meeting on Monday. Commissioners Adams and Butler were sworn into their seats. At this meeting, the Vice Mayor is selected. The Vice Mayor serves in the event the Mayor is unable. Vice Mayor Butler could have remained as there is no rule that prevents

consecutive two-year terms. One year we reappointed former Vice Mayor Bill Julian for another term.

It is understood that it has been a pleasure serving with all my colleagues over the past two years, in a wonderful civil envi ronment. Mike has been a great Vice Mayor. In this case it is not an easy thing to pick amongst colleagues. Commissioners Butler and Lazarow have all had the chance to serve as Vice Mayor. In fairness since Commissioner Anabelle LimaTaub has not served in that capacity,Inominatedher.

She has been and remains to be a resolute public servant. Her commitment to our residents and those without a voice has been steadfast. Her service over the past two years working hard to help shepherding many con dominium issues is also note worthy.

She graciously asked Commissioner Lazarow if she wanted the position, but Commissioner Lazarow supported her nomi nation. Commissioner Adams nominated herself. Vice Mayor Annabelle Lima-Taub was select-

schools. Our staff and city also held our annual Thanksgiving lunch with our seniors at the Hepburn Center. For those that were unable to attend hot meals were delivered to homes here in

the Holidays. Please call me to make a reservation or visit to the tennis center. Reservations are $30 plus unwrapped gift. If you do not play you can still come outandsupportthekids.

As always, feel free to reach out to me with your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City a better place! I can be reached 24/7/365 at my Office Number: (954) 457-1318. On my Cell/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or E-mail me at: jcooper@cohb.org

games, arts and crafts and entertainment while promoting the benefits of riding the commuterrailsystem.

Eligibility: To be eligible to participate, performers must reside in South Florida, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties as well as being between the ages of 5 and 17 at the time of auditions and the final show will be on Saturday, February 4th, 2023. Participants must be accompanied by a parent or legal guard ian. Employees of SFRTA/Tri-Rail and their immediate family members and those liv ing in the same household are not eligible to participate. Past finalists are eligible to audition. Past winners are not eligible to participate.

Auditions: Auditions will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 10th, 2022, located at the Galleria Mall in Fort Lauderdale, 2414 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33004. Eligible participants must complete the registration form and call: (954) 806-2869 to register and receive an audition time by Friday, December 9th, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. Contestants must arrive 30 minutes prior to their scheduled audi tion start time. Upon arrival for the audi

tion, you will be required to present valid proof of age for all performers and a com pletedregistrationform.

To schedule an audition, please register at: www.tri-rail.com Or: https:// graphics0925.wixsite.com/sfkgt/registeronline and then call GPR at: (954) 806-2869 by Thursday, December 8th, 2022.

What to Perform at the Audition: Groups or individuals must be ready to sing a selection of your choice. There will be a 4minute time limit on all performances. Please note that auditions will be public and other auditioners will be able to view theauditions.

Prizes: Ten acts from the auditions will be selected by a panel of local judges and asked to compete at the final competition to be held on Saturday, February 4th, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. as part of Tri-Rail’s “Rail Fun Day” community celebration. To be eligible to win the final competition, the performer(s) must be pre sent at the final event. In addition, you must adhere to the same conditions as noted above. One 1st place winner of the final competition on Saturday, February 11th, 2023 will be chosen to receive a $500 cash prize, a professional studio recording session compliments of MikeSoperMusic, a photoshoot and comp cardcourtesyofPoscheModels&Talent.

South Florida families are invited to Tri-Rail’s Joe Dimaggio Children’s Hospital Rail Fun Day on February 19

(L) Hallandale Beach Commissioner Anabelle Lima-Taub was selected in a 4-1 vote to be Vice Mayor (M-R) Hallandale Beach Commissioners Joy Adams and Mike Butler were sworn into their seats

Recognizing Holiday Hazards

5 Seasonal Safety Tips For Pet Owners

(Family Features)

The holiday sea

son presents opportunities for celebrating with loved ones, for many families, that includes their dogs and cats. However, holiday foods and decorations can pose health risks for pets and the hus tle and bustle may be over whelming.

To help keep your pet safe amid the jolly chaos, consider these potential hazards from the experts at VCA Animal Hospitals, which has more than 1,000 loca tions across North America that cared for more than 4.5 million petslastyear.

Decorations

Decorations are part of almost every holiday celebration but making some pet-proofed choices can make your home safe for four-legged guests as well. If you put up a tree (live or artificial), ensure it’s set up securely and use shatter-proof ornaments, ideally hung above tail height and out of paws’ reach. If you have kittens less than 1 year old in your home, they sometimes like to climb up the tree trunk to the top, so extra care may be needed. Hang smaller ornaments toward the top of the tree to reduce poten

tial choking hazards and avoid salt dough ornaments, which may look like a snack to pets but can cause electrolyte problems, tinsel as it can become lodged in apet’sgutandcauseissues.

Additionally, consider batteryoperated candles instead of real ones, which can be easily knocked over by curious pets and burn them or lead to more serious fire risks. Dangling cords from seasonal decor can also appeal to pets, if chewed while plugged in could result in electri cal shock or burns to the tongue, so secure them out of sight and unplugthemwhennotinuse.

Food

With the holidays comes a delicious variety of baked goods, Chocolate confections and other rich foods. However, some of those seasonal goodies can pre sent problems for pets. For example, Chocolate and Cocoa contain Theobromine, a chemical similar to Caffeine that’s highly toxic to both dogs and cats.

Ingestion in small amounts can cause vomiting and Diarrhea, but large amounts can cause SeizuresandHeartArrhythmias.

Other traditional holiday main stays such as fruitcakes, breads

and cookies that contain grapes, raisins or currants can cause Kidney Failure in dogs. Sugarless Gums and Candies may contain Xylitol, a natural sweetener, which can cause serious con ditions like dangerously low Blood Sugar and Liver Failure in dogs. Leftover fatty meat scraps can produce severe inflammation of the Pancreas (Pancreatitis), leading to abdominal pain, vom itingandbloodydiarrhea.

Plants

Although live trees are nontoxic, their needles do not digest well and their water may contain Bacteria, Mold or Fertilizer that should not be ingested. Additionally, Poinsettias, which often have a bad reputation among pet owners, can cause upset stomachs if the leaves are ingested though it’s typically

milder than the symptoms asso ciated with Holly, Mistletoe and Amaryllis. Daffodils, Lilies and Narcissiarealsotoxictopets.

Guests

An increase in visitors, ringing of the doorbell and extra excite ment of the holiday season can be stressful for pets. Try to keep your four-legged friend’s feeding and exercise schedule as regular as possible, make time for addi tional stress-relieving playtime and snuggles. To help avoid overstimulation, it may be best to keep your pets in their own crates or a quiet room with food, water and comfortable bedding while you have company. If you need additional assistance, con sultwithyourVeterinarian.

Travel

Holiday travel with your four-

legged family members requires some extra packing and precau tions. If traveling by car, make sure your pet is safely restrained using a secure harness or carrier and placed away from any air bags. Make sure pets are Microchipped and their Registration is up to date in case you become separated. Never leave pets alone in a vehicle or transport them in the bed of a truck. Also be sure you have updated Health Certificates from your Veterinarian, if required by any states you will visit or pass through and pack copies of Medical Records, First Aid Supplies, food and Medications, leashes, collars and favoritetoys.

For more tips to make the holidays safe for pets, visit: www.vcahospitals.com

66th Annual Candy Cane Parade on Hollywood Beach

The 66th Annual Candy Cane Parade along the world-famous Hollywood Beach Broadwalk takes place this Saturday, December 3rd at 7 p.m. This year’s parade theme is “A Country Western Christmas.”

The parade begins at Missouri Street and will head south along the Broadwalk, past the parade emcee positioned at the Hollywood Beach Theatre at Johnson Street, to Harrison Street. Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair for top-notch viewing of the parade floats, marching bands, and creative displays from civic, non-profit and children’s groups, or reserve a table at one of the many sea siderestaurants.

Due to the high demand for parking on the barrier island, beginning at 5 p.m., parade

tocols will be in place for the duration of the event, participant patienceisappreciated.

Parade participants are being asked to “Help Keep Hollywood Beautiful” by handing out candy to parade goers, rather than throwing from floats. This will help reduce waste on the Broadwalk and sandy beach. Parade attendees are encour aged to be #SeenBeingGreen by bringing their reusable water bot tles.

Hollywood’s signature holiday event, the Candy Cane Parade, is presented in partnership with the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency and the Department of Parks, Recreation andCulturalArts.

For more information, visit: www.hollywoodfl.org

goers are encouraged to park in one of the downtown parking garages and take the free shuttle to the beach. The downtown

parking garages are located at 19th Avenue at Polk Street and 20th Avenue at Van Buren Street. Shuttles will circulate non-stop

throughout the evening with the last shuttle leaving the beach at 10 p.m. Downtown parking rates apply. Modified security pro

The Broward Center Spotlights students from the Broward Center’s fall Advanced Musical Theater Workshop and Ultimate Theater Dance class will bring the magic of music, dance and theater to life during the Broward Center Holiday Spectacular at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 3 in the Amaturo Theater. This morning perform ance is perfect for all ages and includes family-friendly activities priortotheshow.

With generorous support from Spirit Airlines, the Broward Center Spotlights performing ensem ble will delight the audience with group and solo performances that include holiday favorites and Broadway’s greatest hits. Broward Center Spotlights is an audition-based musical theater program that provides students with top-tier instruction to per form solos, duets and group numbers along with choreog raphy for a variety of Broward Centerandcommunityevents.

ment.

Tickets for the Broward Center Holiday Spectacular are $10. Ticketmaster is the only offi cial ticketing service of the Broward Center. Buy tickets online at: BrowardCenter.org, or: www.Ticketmaster.com; by

The

Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. For more information visit: BrowardCenter.org

the Broward Center’s Advanced Musical Theater Workshop and Ultimate Theater Dance class during the fall will showcase their work through a variety of lively songs, animated dances and original holiday scenes during theHolidaySpectacular.

singing, dance, improv and act ing classes for kids, teens and adults throughout the year and includes a class for those with physical and intellectual chal lenges. Classes are designed to encourage artistic expression and teach theater skills in a sup

son at the Broward Center’s AutoNationBoxOffice.

Broward

The Broward Center Spotlights students from the Broward Center’s fall Advanced Musical Theater Workshop and Ultimate Theater Dance class