STEIBS/COHEN BUYING EVENT
Bringing Tradition
Every Table
Bone in Veal Parmigiana
In a city that thrives on reinvention, one restaurant, Cafe Avanti, has remained steadfast, serving authentic Italian cuisine with heart and soul for 35 years. In 1989, Cafe Avanti opened its doors at 732 West 41st Street, bringing authentic Northern Italian cuisine to a neighborhood hungry for something heartfelt and timeless. Cafe Avanti, the third-longest-standing restaurant in Miami Beach to operate in its original location (trailing only the iconic Joe’s Stone Crab and Toni’s Sushi), has been a pillar of the community. Cafe Avanti seamlessly blends rustic charm, elegance, and vibrancy to create a dining experience that feels both timeless and inviting. The lively backdrop of an authentic Italian kitchen fills the air with the vibrant energy of great food and warm hospitality. At its heart, Cafe Avanti is a family-owned and operated restaurant where personal connections are as integral to the experience as the food itself.
This month, Cafe Avanti celebrates its 35th anniversary, marking a milestone not only for its dedication to culinary excel-
Unwrap A Delightful Holiday Treat In Ft. Lauderdale
This holiday season, theatergoers of all ages will delight in Slow Burn Theatre Company’s heartwarming production of “Anastasia The Musical,” part of Slow Burn’s 2024/2025 Season supported by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale, from Saturday, Dec. 21 through Sunday, Jan. 5, including a sensory-inclusive performance with a post-show meet and greet on Saturday, December 28 at 1:30 p.m. and an open captioned performance sponsored by the Amaturo Family Foundation on Sunday, December 29 at 2 p.m.,
invites audiences to step into a world of wonder and history with this Broadway sensation that has captivated the hearts of audiences worldwide. With its opulent settings, dazzling costumes and a soaring score that includes song favorites “Journey to the Past” and “Once Upon a December” from the hit animated film that inspired the spectacular musical, “Anastasia” is about discovering who you are and defining who you’re meant to be.
Directed by Slow Burn Theatre Artistic Director and Carbonell Award winner Patrick
dashing conman and Vlad, a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family. Playing the lead roles are Jarod Bakum as Dimitry and Mikayla Cohen as Anya. They are joined by supporting actors Gail Bennett as Countess Lily, Sean William Davis as Gleb, Aaron De Jesus as Vlad and Laura Turnball as the Dowager Empress. Other characters are portrayed by Alexander Blanco, Jamal Campbell, Ryan Crout, Blaire DiMisa, Madeline Dunn, Michael
More than 60% of U.S. adults will have some type of Cardiovascular Disease by 2050, unless we start making changes.
The last decade has seen a surge in Cardiovascular risk factors such as uncontrolled High Blood Pressure, Diabetes and Obesity, each of which raises the risks of developing Heart Disease and Stroke. These trends are leading researchers to conclude that the prevalence of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) will continue to rise.
More than 60% of U.S. adults will have some type of CVD by 2050, according to forecasted projections from the American Heart Association, which is celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service as the world’s leading NonProfit Organization focused on heart and brain health for all. Additionally, total costs related to CVD are expected to nearly triple in that time to more than $1.8 Trillion.
The increase will be driven by an older, more diverse population, but these risk factors are rising even among children and
“We recognize the landscape of Cardiovascular health will nami of rising health care costs, an older population living longer
Page 10A
Cafe Avanti Celebrate’s 35 Years Of Timeless Italian Flavors
The Broward Center Amaturo Theater is located at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale.
Addressing The Region’s Evolving Healthcare Needs
Memorial Healthcare System To Expand With Two New Freestanding Emergency Departments
Memorial Healthcare System is expanding access to Adult and Pediatric Advanced Emergency Services in South Broward and Northwest Miami-Dade Counties with the development of two new Freestanding Emergency Departments (FSEDs). The new facility at Miramar Parkway and Red Road in Miramar and the redeveloped and expanded FSED at 801 Douglas Road, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33025 are strategically located to meet high demand in these rapidly growing areas.
“Our new Freestanding Emergency Departments in Miramar and Pembroke Pines are vital to addressing the region’s evolving healthcare needs and would not have been possible without the support and immediate action taken by Memorial’s Board of Commissioners,” said Memorial Healthcare System Interim CEO Shane Strum. “These Emergency Departments will ensure that our communities have immediate access to high-quality emergency care that is closer to home. They
not only increase our capacity by more than 30,000 visits annually, but also enhance our ability to deliver timely, specialized services to families and individuals who need it most.”
“The board has been excited to see our new CEO fast tracking growth projects that had long been under consideration yet stalled,” said Elizabeth Justen, Chair of the South Broward Hospital District Board of Commissioners. “Under Shane’s leadership and the board’s purview, you will continue to see Memorial pursue aggressive growth strategies. We are committed to expanding innovation and making capital investments that will ensure our community always has the best care available. These two new Freestanding Emergency Departments are a decisive start.”
With an estimated construction cost of $61.8 Million, work on the FSEDs is set to begin in early 2025, with anticipated completion by mid 2026. Both projects were approved by the South Hospital District
Board of Commissioners in October after swift action was taken by Strum to breathe new life into the projects.
The Miramar Parkway and Red Road FSED, a 16,800-Square-Foot Facility, will serve the fast expanding Northwest Miami-Dade region, where emergency visits comprise 27% of Memorial’s total emergency room volume. Equipped with 13 Examination Rooms, a Pediatric Treatment Area, a Trauma/Resuscitation Room, Advanced Imaging (CT and X-ray), and On-Site Lab capabilities, this FSED will provide emergency care to over 32,850 individuals annually. With the local population projected to increase by 10% by 2029, this facility will offer convenient access to care and help reduce wait times.
The Douglas Road FSED will transform a 48-year-old building into a State-OfThe-Art 30,100-Square-Foot Facility. With 20 Private Examination and Treatment Rooms, Dedicated Pediatric Areas, and Enhanced Imaging Services such as CT
and X-ray, this facility is projected to care for approximately 55,000 individuals each year, with room for future growth. Designed with a Private Behavioral Health Area and Trauma/Resuscitation Room, the Douglas Road FSED is equipped to meet diverse emergency needs and to provide essential care to uninsured and Medicaiddependent patients who make up nearly a third of the local community.
These FSEDs underscore Memorial Healthcare System’s thoughtful vision for future growth, answering the needs of a growing region and an increasingly advanced care model.
“The new Freestanding Emergency Departments are the first of many steps we’ll be taking to make Memorial as competitive as possible while offering all the services needed by our growing community,” Strum said. “We are acting with expediency and seizing the tremendous opportunity that exists for Memorial that will ultimately benefit the patients we serve across South Florida.”
Memorial Healthcare System that focuses on the expansion of emergency services with the development The two freestanding emergency departments will serve communities in northwest Miami-Dade and southwest Broward county from its Miramar location and the other in Pembroke Pines.
Steibs/Cohen Buying Event
ART: old oil paintings, old watercolors, old etchings, lithographs, old movie posters, cartoon art, & more! STATUES: old bronze, carved jade, wood, marble, alabaster, pottery, porcelain.
OLD TOYS: old toys, trains, old comics and baseball cards (prior to 1960), old Japanese toys, robots, old banks & old dolls. ORIENTAL ITEMS: jades, statues, figurines, netsuke, old swords, oriental glass and porcelains.
HISTORICAL ITEMS: letters, autographs (movie stars, presidents, political, etc.), old photos, political pins and ribbons, old fountain pens, old pocket knives, swords, military items, American, Japanese, German medals, advertising items, old stamps, old badges (police, fire, military).
All Things Gold, Silver, Sterling & Platinum Jewelry
We buy all types of Gold Jewelry, new, old, and broken. Rings (class rings, mother’s rings, wedding rings, etc.) Bracelets (charm, tennis, bangles, etc). Earrings do not need to be a matching pair. Chains and Pendants, broken is ok. We even buy old Yellow Gold teeth and crowns. Brooches, company year pins. We buy Diamonds, Emeralds, and Rubies. Any item made out of Sterling Silver. Silverware, forks, spoons, bowls, dishes, trays, tea sets, statues, Sterling and .999 Bars, Sterling and .999 Rounds, frames, candle sticks, trophies, salt and pepper shakers and Jewelry. Broken and smashed is ok.
or New Jewelry
Gold/Silver Bars
Oriental Rugs & Glass
Buck Rogers Items
Currier & Ives Prints
Stamps
Whirligigs
Autographs
A Better-For-You Swap
Indulge
Your Sweet Tooth This Holiday Season
(Family Features) If you’ve ever come home from a crisp, cool day craving a warm, indulgent treat, you’re not alone. Trouble is, sometimes those baked goodies are a bit too much work when you’re ready to just cozy up on the couch.
There’s good news: Baking doesn’t have to be hard when you make simple swaps and use ingredients that keep things easy. Try adding fresh produce to a boxed brownie mix in these Sweetpotato Cheesecake Brownies for an “in between” recipe that satisfies your sweet tooth without the hassle.
Plus, it offers a better-for-you twist as the sweetness from mashed Sweetpotatoes can replace some of the sugar needed to bake regular brownies. Sweetpotatoes are rich in Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants and Fiber, all of which are good for overall health in this
natural sweetener. While you’re sharing this newfound favorite dessert with loved ones, you can also share this fun fact: “Sweetpotato” is deliberately spelled as one word by the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission. The Sweetpotato and White Potato are two distinct species representing two different plant families, and the one-word spelling helps correctly distinguish the two.
Give these better-for-you treats a try and find more delicious desserts and other creative ways to use Sweetpotatoes at: https://ncsweetpotatoes.com
Sweetpotato Cheesecake Brownies
Recipe courtesy of the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission Servings: 16
Brownie Layer:
• Floured baking spray
• 1 - 18.2 Ounce Package of Dark Chocolate Fudge Brownie mix
• 3/4 Cup of Mashed Sweetpotato, cooled
• 1/4 Cup of Vegetable Oil
• 1/4 Cup of Water
• 1 Egg
Cheesecake Layer:
• 1 - 8 Ounce Package of
• Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese
• 3/4 Cup of mashed Sweetpotato, cooled
• 1/2 Cup of Granulated Sugar
• 1 Egg
• 1 Teaspoon of Vanilla Extract
• 1/4 Cup of Miniature Chocolate Chips
Preheat the oven to 350 F. Spray a 9by-9-inch square pan with the Floured Baking Spray.
To prepare the Brownie Layer: In a medium bowl, stir the Brownie mix, the Sweetpotato, the Oil, the Water and the Egg until they are blended. Spread the Batter in the bottom of the prepared pan.
To prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Using an electric mixer, beat the Cream Cheese until it is smooth. Add the mashed Sweetpotato, the Sugar, the Egg and the Vanilla; mix until it is well blended. Spread the Cheese mixture over the Brownie Batter.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted comes out almost clean. Remove it from the oven and cool it for 15 minutes. Sprinkle the surface with the Chocolate Chips and cool it completely. Remove it from the pan and serve it.
Substitution: Use Coconut Sugar in place of Granulated Sugar.
Cream. Event Goers are encouraged to ride the train to the event. The first 100 riders to visit the Tri-Rail booth at the event will receive a free gift. Weekend fares are $5 to ride Tri-Rail for the entire day or $2.50 for those who have a registered discount EASY Card. Kids under 5 years old ride for free.
To learn more about Tri-Rail’s “Winter Wonderland” presented by Herzog, visit: www.tri-rail.com. For train schedules and more information, call: 1 (800) TRI-RAIL1 (800) 874-7245. About Tri-Rail: Tri-Rail, South Florida’s premier commuter rail system, serves Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties with 19 conveniently located train stations. Service is available every day of the year including holidays. Transit buses, Metrorail and other connections are available to get riders to their final destinations. For more information about Tri-Rail, visit: www.tri-rail.com - 1 (800) TRI-RAIL - 1 (800) 874-7245.
Sweetpotato Cheesecake Brownies
Tri-Rail’s “Winter Wonderland” will offer free family fun with interactive games and activities, cookie decorating, food trucks and more on December 14.
food choices? To help unravel this common conundrum, Dr. Katie Tolbert, a Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionist and Associate Professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, offers expert advice on what kind of food you should feed your dog and choosing a diet that is well-suited for your dog’s unique health needs.
The Basics Of Canine Nutrition
Like people, dogs need to eat a healthy diet in order to maintain good health, improve quality of life and even prevent certain diseases.
“Consistency and quality are both important,” Tolbert said. “Just like we can start to feel bad when we change our diet or eat unhealthy foods, dogs are also affected by what they eat.”
But choosing a pet food diet can feel complicated because there are so many variables that affect owner choices.
“The kind of food you feed your dog
food you can afford,” Tolbert said.
“You also need to consider things like your dog’s age,” she said. “Most dogs go through three big life stages — growth, adult and senior. With each stage, the animal’s nutritional requirements and the benefits they get from different nutrients will change throughout their life. So, a growing puppy needs different food than a senior dog.”
Tolbert recommends that every dog owner check their pet’s food label to see if it meets the nutritional levels recommended by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), an organization that helps to set standards for pet foods based on type and animal stage of life.
“An AAFCO adequacy statement helps to ensure that you’re feeding your dog a food that is appropriately labeled including providing caloric information, a life stage adequacy statement and an ingredient list,” she said.
rect choices for dog food, it’s important to pay attention to the signs that your furry friend may be on the wrong diet.
According to Tolbert, the following signs may indicate that it’s time to see a veterinarian about switching your dog’s food:
• Brittle coat that is abnormal for the breed
• Loss of coat sheen or change of coat color
• Hair loss
• Activity loss that doesn’t correlate with age
• Changes in stool consistency or frequency
• Change in appetite or food seeking behavior
“While these signs are not a guarantee that your dog is on the wrong diet, they are often early signals of an inappropriate diet or that something else is going on,” she said. “Either way, it’s time to visit a veterinarian.”
The Benefits Of Working With A Veterinarian Regardless of what diet you’re interested in feeding your dog, Tolbert always
recommends talking to your veterinarian
“Your veterinarian can help you decide which kind of food is best based on your dog’s health status, taste and consistency preferences and other factors, like your budget,” she said. “Especially if your pet has multiple health issues, it’s important to ask for help so that you can be sure you’re supporting each condition and its nutritional needs.
“It’s also important to make sure that your dog food’s health claims are backed by research,” she said. “Your veterinarian can help you identify which claims are accurate.” Making sure that your canine companion eats a healthy diet tailored to their needs will help them live longer and feel better, while also reducing their chances of disease.
Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the web at: https://vetmed.tamu.edu/ news/pet-talk - Suggestions for future topics may be directed to: vmbs-editor@tamu.edu.
“Most dogs go through three big life stages — growth, adult and senior. With each stage, the animal’s nutritional requirements and the benefits”
Let BCT take
on a magical ride
Ft. Lauderdale
From Page 1A
Fitzwater is joined by a creative team of choreographer Cat Pagano, music director Ryan Crout, scenic designer Nikolas Serrano, costume designer Rick Peña, lighting designer Eric Norbury, and sound designer Dan Donato. The talented technical team includes production stage manager Jeffry George, assistant stage manager Jolie Rubinchik, technical director Timothy S. Dickey and wig and prop design by Fitzwater.
Slow Burn’s production of “Anastasia
The Musical” is presented through special arrangement with Concord Theatricals. The musical is inspired by the Twentieth Century Fox Motion Pictures by special arrangement with Buena Vista Theatrical, from the play by Marcelle Maurette as adapted by Guy Bolton.
Performance times vary with an open captioned performance on Sunday, December 29 at 2 p.m.
“Anastasia The Musical” A SensoryInclusive Performance takes place in the Amaturo Theater with a post-show meet and greet on Saturday, December 28 at 1:30 p.m. Intended to create a welcoming and supportive environment for children and adults on the Autism spectrum as well as individuals with other sensitivity issues or developmental disabilities, this performance features slight adjustments including reduced sound levels, no flashing or strobe lights and minimal special effects. Admission includes complimentary pre-show arts and crafts activities provided by Young at Art Museum. An area adjacent to the theater has been designated as the ABA Centers of Florida Sensory Quiet Room with a specially trained therapist to provide audience support. Patrons may bring their own headphones, fidgets and other calming items into the theater or borrow these items at the theater. The Broward Center’s sensory-inclusive programming is made possible through the generous support of ABA Centers of Florida, The Batchelor Foundation, The Gore Family Memorial Foundation Trust, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and The Taft Foundation with special thanks to UM-NSU CARD for their in-kind support.
Single tickets to Slow Burn Theatre’s 2024/2025 season are on sale now. Supported by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale, the season continues in the new year with “Parade” (Feb. 8 – 23); “Something Rotten!” (March 29 –April 13); and “The Bodyguard The Musical” (June 7 – 22).
Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: BrowardCenter.org, or: Ticketmaster.com; By phone at: 954.462.0222; in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office.
Broward Center for the Performing Arts & Slow Burn Theatre Company
One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 850 performances each year to more than 600,000 patrons, displaying a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level, the Nicklaus Children’s Health System Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion, waterfront dining at Marti’s New River Bistro and
Healthy Holiday Tips for Pregnant People
(Family Features) The holidays often bring colder weather and more indoor gatherings. Respiratory viruses like flu, COVID19 and RSV are common this time of year. Illness from these viruses can be dangerous for pregnant people and newborns. Staying up to date on vaccines for flu, COVID-19 and RSV during pregnancy can offer protection, and now is the time to get vaccinated if you haven’t already. “During the holidays, pregnant people can help protect their health and the health of their baby by getting updated vaccines,” said Dr. Rachel Levine, assistant secretary for health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). “During the holidays, you’re more likely to be exposed to flu, COVID-19 and RSV. Vaccination not only helps build up your immune system but can give protection for your little one.” Here are some tips from the HHS Risk Less. Do More. public education campaign for a safe
innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. With one of the largest arts-ineducation programs in the United States, the Broward Center serves more than 100,000 students annually. The Broward Center also manages The Parker, an iconic Fort Lauderdale venue, the Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on
Cultural Center in Miami-Dade County, The Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Inc. receives and maintains funds to sustain, develop and secure the future of the Broward Center.
The Broward Center is located at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale, FL. For more information, visit: BrowardCenter.org
Slow Burn Theatre Company celebrates a legacy of innovation, resilience, and community connection. From intimate stages to grand productions, Slow Burn continues to inspire audiences with its passion for the arts and commitment to making theater accessible to all. For more information, visit Slow
pregnancy, there is a greater risk of flu or COVID-19 infections
The Scammers
AI-Powered Travel Scams To Watch Out For This Christmas Holiday
Thanks to AI, scammers no longer need to be tech experts to create convincing websites that mimic legitimate travel booking platforms. Often advertising irresistible prices for flights and accommodations, these sites lure travelers with offers that seem too good to miss. Fraudsters also often play on urgency, using phrases like “limited-time sale” or “only 1 left” to push consumers into making quick decisions. Once you input your details, scammers can steal your personal and financial information, leaving you with a ticket to nowhere and out of pocket.
Protect yourself this holiday by being extra vigilant when booking travel online. Watch out for suspicious URLs, small spelling errors or anything that feels off about the website’s design or offers. Double-check through official channels and read verified reviews before submitting your personal information. As a rule of thumb, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
AI chatbots offering fake travel deals
AI-powered chatbots can be used by scammers to impersonate customer service representatives, offering huge discounts on flights, hotels, or holiday packages. These bots may ask for sensitive personal information or prompt users to pay upfront for non-existent trips.
To avoid falling victim, verify any deals or offers you find online through official travel websites and avoid providing payment information through unfamiliar channels. If something feels too rushed, it’s a red flag. Double-check all details and confirm through official customer service numbers or emails before finalizing any travel booking.
Phishing emails and text messages
One in five people click on AIgenerated phishing emails, with a shocking 65% tricked into revealing personal information through input fields on websites linked in those emails. Scammers are using AI to craft highly convincing phishing content disguised as legitimate companies. Imagine receiving a text or email claiming your flight is canceled, and to avoid losing your reservation, you must click a link and enter your payment details immediately. The pressure to act quickly could lead you to inadvertently put your financial information into the hands of fraudsters.
To stay
safe this holiday season, never click on suspicious links or provide sensitive information through unsolicited emails or texts. Always check the sender’s email address, and be cautious of any communication that asks for personal details. If in doubt, contact the airline, hotel, or travel agency directly.
AI-generated holiday reviews
Fake AI-generated airline reviews have skyrocketed by an eye-popping 189%, while Tripadvisor alone flagged a record 2 million reviews as fake on its platform last year. With the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, scammers can now generate hundreds of seemingly genuine, glowing reviews in minutes, making it harder for travelers to distinguish between real and fraudulent content.
To avoid being duped, cross-check reviews across multiple sources and don’t rely solely on reviews from travel booking websites. Instead, check independent review platforms and Social Media for additional feedback. Pay attention to patterns - if a place has an unusually high number of extremely positive reviews posted in a short period of time, it’s likely a red flag that they’ve been generated by AI or planted by scammers. Authentic reviews tend to be more balanced, including both positive and constructive feedback.
Fake travel itineraries and AI-generated images
While many travelers nowadays use AI to help plan their trips, scammers are also taking advantage of this technology to create professional-looking itineraries designed to deceive. These fake itineraries often feature attractive holiday packages that promise an unforgettable vacation at an unbeatable price, with AIgenerated images used to promote false activities, making everything seem
enticing. Once you send a deposit or full payment, you might find that your dream holiday doesn’t exist at all!
To steer clear of sneaky fraudsters, stay alert when presented with offers that seem too good to be true and verify the source. AI-generated itineraries may appear polished, but they often contain subtle inconsistencies. Check for missing or mismatched details and examine the photos closely - AI-generated images can have imperfections like unnatural lighting or blurry areas.
Christoph C. Cemper, Founder of AIPRM provides expert commentary on identifying AI scams when booking holidays online, as well as what to do if you think you have fallen victim to an AI scam:
“I believe that a (false sense) of urgency, no matter how well explained (using Generative AI) is the top red flag for any kind of scams, including those for booking trips and holidays. Nowadays, nearly anything can be faked with AI so if it is ‘too’ well written, ‘too’ good to be true in the offer, or ‘too nice’ in pictures, then I
would be especially careful. The most common form of AI scam is a phishing ‘offer,’ that lures the user into providing their personal or payment details too soon/too early based on vague promises that seem too good to resist. Such impulse actions are used to harvest the data as quickly as possible, without much to do once the data is revealed. I know of cases where the legal and police systems were busy for months due to an identity theft incident where the victim barely remembers engaging with. If you think you have fallen victim to a scam, as painful as it is, any kind of revealed information needs to be rendered useless. You can hardly move to another place, so fake ecommerce orders can still happen, but locking down your credit card is the first and most simple thing to do. Contacting your bank as soon as possible is essential.
While reporting the incident to the police or a cyber-crime unit is recommended, it’s worth noting that these reports often result in education for the victim rather than immediate resolution.”
AI-powered chatbots can be used by scammers to impersonate customer service representatives.
The Surveillance State Is Making a List, And You’re
By John & Nisha Whitehead
You’d better watch out—you’d better not pout—you’d better not cry—‘cos I’m telling you why: this Christmas, it’s the Surveillance State that’s making a list and checking it twice, and it won’t matter whether you’ve been bad or good.
You’ll be on this list whether you like it or not.
Mass surveillance is the Deep State’s version of a “gift” that keeps on giving…back to the Deep State.
Geofencing dragnets. Fusion centers. Smart devices. Behavioral threat assessments. Terror watch lists. Facial recognition. Snitch tip lines. Biometric scanners. Pre-crime. DNA databases. Data mining. Precognitive technology. Drones. Contact tracing apps. License plate readers. Social media vetting. Surveillance towers.
What these add up to is a world in which, on any given day, the average person is now monitored, surveilled, spied on and tracked in more than 20 different ways by both government and corporate eyes and ears.
Big Tech wedded to Big Government has become Big Brother.
Every second of every day, the American people are being spied on by a vast network of digital Peeping Toms, electronic eavesdroppers and robotic snoops. This creepy new era of government/corporate spying—in which we’re being listened to, watched, tracked, followed, mapped, bought, sold and targeted—has been made possible by a global army of techno-tyrants, fusion centers and Peeping Toms.
Consider just a small sampling of the tools being used to track our movements, monitor our spending, and sniff out all the ways in which our thoughts, actions and
social circles might land us on the government’s naughty list, whether or not you’ve done anything wrong.
Tracking you based on your phone and movements: Cell phones have become de facto snitches, offering up a steady stream of digital location data on users’ movements and travels. For instance, the FBI was able to use geofence data to identify more than 5,000 mobile devices (and their owners) in a 4-acre area around the Capitol on January 6th.
Tracking you based on your DNA. DNA technology in the hands of government officials completes our transition to a Surveillance State. By accessing your DNA, the government will soon know everything else about you that they don’t already know: your family chart, your ancestry, what you look like, your health history, your inclination to follow orders or chart your own course, etc. It’s only a matter of time before the police state’s pursuit of criminals expands into genetic profiling and a preemptive hunt for criminals of the future.
Tracking you based on your face: Facial recognition software aims to create a society in which every individual who steps out into public is tracked and recorded in real-time as they go about their daily business. Similarly, biometric software, which relies on one’s unique identifiers (fingerprints, irises, voice prints), is becoming the standard for navigating security lines, as well as bypassing digital locks and gaining access to phones, computers, office buildings. Scientists are also developing lasers that can identify and surveil individuals based on their heartbeats, scent and microbiome.
Tracking you based on your behavior:
Rapid advances in behavioral surveillance are not only making it possible for individuals to be monitored and tracked based on their patterns of movement or behavior, including gait recognition (the way one walks), but have given rise to whole industries that revolve around predicting one’s behavior based on data and surveillance patterns and are also shaping the behaviors of whole populations.
Tracking you based on your spending and consumer activities: Consumer surveillance, by which your activities and data in the physical and online realms are tracked and shared with advertisers, has become big business, a $300 Billion industry that routinely harvests your data for profit.
Tracking you based on your public activities: Private corporations in conjunction with police agencies throughout the country have created a web of surveillance that ezcompasses all major cities in order to monitor large groups of people seamlessly, as in the case of protests and rallies. They are also engaging in extensive online surveillance, looking for any hints of “large public events, social unrest, gang communications, and criminally predicated individuals.”
Tracking you based on your social media activities: As The Intercept reported, the FBI, CIA, NSA and other government agencies are increasingly investing in and relying on corporate surveillance technologies that can mine constitutionally protected speech on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram in order to identify potential extremists and predict who might engage in future acts of antigovernment behavior.
Tracking you based on your social net-
work: Not content to merely spy on individuals through their online activity, government agencies are now using surveillance technology to track one’s social network, the people you might connect with by phone, text message, email or through social message, in order to ferret out possible criminals. What this creates is a “guilt by association” society in which we are all as guilty as the most culpable person in our address book.
Now the government wants us to believe that we have nothing to fear from these mass spying programs as long as we’ve done nothing wrong.
Don’t believe it. The government’s definition of a “bad” guy is extraordinarily broad, and it results in the warrantless surveillance of innocent, law-abiding Americans on a staggering scale.
As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, surveillance, digital stalking and the data mining of the American people—weapons of compliance and control in the government’s hands—haven’t made America any safer. And they certainly aren’t helping to preserve our freedoms. Indeed, America will never be safe as long as the U.S. government is allowed to shred the Constitution.
Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an Attorney and Author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of Constitutional Law, Human Rights and Popular Culture. John Whitehead’s Commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org. Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org.
From Page 1A
ness in the bustling kitchens of Boston’s North End. There, he fell in love with the simplicity and tradition of the Italian way. When Luis relocated to Miami, he envisioned a space where food, family, and community could come together — a place where every meal felt like a celebration of life’s most important connections. Not long after, he turned that vision into reality.
“For me, Cafe Avanti represents the true American dream,” says Luis Fuentes. “Starting with a vision and a lot of hard work, we built a place that has become a home for the community. To see generations of families continue to dine with us is the greatest reward.”
At its heart, Cafe Avanti is a familyowned and operated restaurant, where personal connection is as integral to the experience as the food itself. Since joining the team in 2010, Jessica Fuentes, who spent eight years in the restaurant business in Boston, has brought her passion for hospitality and family tradition to every aspect of the business. This summer, Jessica’s brother, Nicolas Fuentes, joined the team fresh out of college, eager to learn the business and continue the family legacy.
“One of us is always at the restaurant,” Jessica explains. “Being greeted by my dad is part of the experience. We want our guests to feel like they’re visiting family when they walk through our doors.” My dad has always said, “If I make a friend a day, that’s 365 friends at the end of the year.”
As one of the city’s most enduring landmarks, Cafe Avanti is one of the original Italian restaurants in Miami’s culinary scene. The Proof Is in the Parm, Cafe Avanti’s menu is one for the Ages, a love letter to Northern Italian cuisine crafted with care and tradition. The Chicken Parmigiana, a golden, cheesy masterpiece, on the menu since day one, remains the most beloved dish. It’s the comfort food that transcends time, offering a bite of nostalgia with every forkful. The favorites list is long; a few standouts include: Veal Meatballs, delicious over pasta, Caesar Salad or on their own, Branzino: Grilled Mediterranean Sea Bass in a Lemon, White Wine and Butter Sauce, topped with Capers and Mushrooms, Linguine Carbonara: In a decadent Cream Sauce with Pancetta and Onions. Every dish tells a story of tradition, evoking the warmth of an Italian kitchen and the
memories of meals shared with loved ones.
Adding to its allure is a cozy bar, where guests love to gather, share stories, and enjoy some of the best Martinis in town alongside selections from an extensive Wine List. Whether indulging in a classic Dry Martini, a rich Espresso Martini, or an after-dinner Limoncello, the bar offers the perfect setting for unwinding and connecting. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate highlights like Ca’ del Bosco Franciacorta (Italy), a sparkling favorite for celebrations; Chianti, Marchesi Antinori (Toscana), a bold red perfect with hearty pasta dishes; Brunello, IL Poggione (Montalcino), a smooth and elegant choice for Veal and Beef; and Sauvignon Blanc, Cakebread (Napa), a refreshing white ideal for Seafood dishes. Whether enjoying a perfectly mixed Martini or savoring a carefully selected wine, the bar at Cafe Avanti is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the Italian dining experience.
Over the years, Cafe Avanti has become more than just a restaurant—it’s
a living piece of Miami Beach history.
Generations of families have dined here, turning first dates into anniversaries and introducing their children—and now grandchildren—to its welcoming charm and signature dishes. To accommodate guests celebrating life’s special moments, Cafe Avanti expanded to include an intimate bar and private dining spaces designed for gatherings of 12, 35, or 80 guests. These spaces seamlessly blend warmth and elegance, featuring exposed brick walls for a cozy, homey feel and glittering chandeliers paired with GrecoRoman stained glass for a sophisticated yet inviting ambiance, perfect for everything from intimate dinners to grand celebrations.
“Cafe Avanti is the Cheers of Miami Beach,” says Jessica Fuentes.“On any given day, you’re sure to run into someone you know.” The staff has worked here for years, and their unwavering dedication and consistency make this place so special. “It’s where locals hang out, families connect, and memories are made — one
plate of Chicken Parm, one Martini, and one
of
This December, Cafe Avanti turns 35 and invites everyone to join the celebration with a special “Early Bird Anniversary Menu.”Available from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., the Three-Course Meal includes: a choice of Soup or Salad, The Signature Chicken Parmigiana, and a sweet finish with Tiramisu; priced at $35, it’s a nostalgic nod to the restaurant’s opening year and a heartfelt thank-you to the community that has supported it through the decades.
Together, the Fuentes family ensures that Cafe Avanti remains authentic to what has made them a staple. With every visit, bite, and sip, Cafe Avanti feels like coming home.
Cafe Avanti is open, Sun. - Thurs. 5:00 p.m.10:00
Treat Online Shopping ‘Tech Neck’
A New Product Developed By Dermatologists And Plastic Surgeons Can Help
(BPT) - Did you know that spending extended time hunched over your phone can take a serious toll on your neck? Commonly referred to as ‘tech neck’ or ‘text neck,’ this habit can lead to the appearance of deep lines, wrinkles and even sagging skin on your neck. The delicate skin on your neck is particularly prone to showing signs of aging prematurely - and constant hunching only accelerates the process.
The skin on your neck is about four times thinner than the skin on your face, so it quickly shows signs of excess sun exposure, premature aging and ‘tech neck. It’s also highly visible skin, so unless you want to wear turtlenecks the rest of your life, you’ll want to take better care of this fragile skin.
While you may not give up your cell phone, you can take steps to protect and improve the skin on your neck so you can look and feel your best.
1. Watch your posture
How often do you find yourself looking at your phone? Have you ever tracked it? It might be time for a reality check: Most smartphones and tablets allow you to monitor your daily screen time under “settings.” You’ll be surprised by how quickly those minutes accumulate into hours. Consider setting a timer each time you check your text messages or social media to limit the time spent in this posture - or try checking your phone only at certain times. Additionally, hold your phone higher, closer to eye level, to avoid straining your neck and hunching your shoulders. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes.
2. Harness the power of Retinol Looking for a non-invasive way to lift and firm your neck? Your best bet is Retinol, and RoC Skincare has made it even easier with their new Derm Correxion Firming Serum Stick. This innovative product combines their well-known Retinol in a convenient new stick format, firming skin and combatting lines and wrinkles with a simple swipe. Developed with dermatologists and plastic surgeons, this Firming Serum Stick massages Retinol, antioxidants and firming THPE directly into the skin on your neck, face, chest, and back of hands for both immediate and lasting results. Clinically proven to visibly firm and correct the lines caused by tech neck, it leaves skin looking smoother and feeling refreshed.
“We all want the benefits of Retinol but with instant results too,” says Dr. Prem Tripathi, Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon. “The convenience of the stick format paired with the effectiveness of RoC’s Retinol and THPE makes it ideal for anyone looking to instantly tighten skin and maintain results long term.”
Find RoC Skincare Derm Correxion Firming Serum Stick at Target.
3. Go easy on sun exposure While it’s well known that prolonged
sun exposure can be harsh on your skin, it’s easy to forget to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas. Next time you’re outdoors, remember to apply SPF 30+ not only on your face but also on your neck, chest, and hands - areas of delicate skin that tend to show signs of aging.
Incorporating these simple steps into your routine can help combat the effects of tech neck and enhance the overall appearance of your skin, boosting your confidence to look and feel your best, every day.
glass
wine at a time.”
Hunched over your phone can take a serious toll on your neck.
Beef Carpaccio
Lasagna Bolognese
House Made Tiramisu
Let BCT take you on a magical ride
Healthier
From Page 1A
and increasing numbers of people from under-resourced populations,” said American Heart Association Volunteer Karen E. Joynt Maddox, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA. “Yet these are still leading causes of death and disability in the U.S.”
While continued systematic changes are needed in science, policy and health care, the majority of CVD is preventable at an individual level. You can help turn the tide on the dire outlook of CVD while improving your own health by following and encouraging others to follow the American Heart Association’s “Life’s
Essential 8.”
Eat better. Aim for an overall healthy eating pattern including whole foods, fruits and vegetables, lean protein, nuts, seeds and cooking with olive and canola oils. Be active. Adults should get 2 1/2 hours of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week. Kids should have 60 minutes every day, including play and structured activities. Quit Tobacco. Use of inhaled Nicotine delivery products, which includes traditional Cigarettes, electronic Cigarettes and vaping, is the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. Get healthy sleep. Most adults need 79 hours of sleep each night. Children
require 10-16 hours for ages 5 and younger, including naps; 9-12 hours for ages 6-12; and 8-10 hours for ages 13-18.
Manage weight. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight has many benefits. Body Mass Index is a useful gauge. Optimal BMI is less than 25, but less than 18.5 is considered underweight. You can calculate it online or consult a healthcare professional. Control Cholesterol. High levels of Non-HDL, or “Bad,” Cholesterol can lead to Heart Disease. Your health care professional can consider Non-HDL Cholesterol as the preferred number to monitor, rather than Total Cholesterol, because it can be measured without fasting beforehand and is reliably calculated among all people.
Manage Blood Sugar. Most of the food you eat is turned into Glucose (or Blood Sugar) your body uses as energy. Over time, high levels of Blood Sugar can damage your Heart, Kidneys, Eyes and Nerves. Manage Blood Pressure. Keeping your Blood Pressure within acceptable ranges can keep you healthier longer. Levels less than 120/80 mm HG are optimal. High Blood Pressure is defined as 130-139 mm HG systolic pressure (the top number in a reading) or 80-89 mm HG Diastolic Pressure (bottom number).
Find more ways to manage your health in the new year and beyond at: www.heart.org
The Players’ Inaugural Season of Jerry’s Girls
A Musical Revue that Honors the Life and Work of Legendary Broadway Composer
The Pompano Players third offering in their inaugural season is Jerry’s Girls, a musical revue that honors the life and work of legendary Broadway composer Jerry Herman. The production will open at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center on January 10th and run through January 19th.
Jerry’s Girls has been described as a ‘celebratory two-hour musical entertainment of glamour, optimism, love, melody, and women’ (The Guide to Musical Theatre). It is a thoughtfully constructed musical revue that celebrates Herman’s music and lyrics, highlighting the broad spectrum of material he wrote specifically for female performers.
More than most Broadway composers, Jerry Herman showcased ‘larger-than-life’ women in his iconic musicals. From Dolly Gallagher Levi of Hello, Dolly!, to Mame
Dennis of Mame, or Countess Aurelia of Dear World, Mabel Normand of Mack and Mabel, and female impersonator ZaZa of La Cage Aux Folles, Herman’s women were center stage – strong, key personalities that drove the shows’ plots, led musical numbers, and sometimes even determined the fates of the plays’ other characters.
The production, directed and staged by multiple Carbonell Award-winner Michael Ursua, will feature 35 of Herman’s songs: “Jerry Herman is my favorite composer,” Ursua says. “He had tremendous musicality and wit. His gift was to musicalize the resilience of the human spirit. We’re presenting Jerry’s Girls with a 6-piece live band, beautiful costumes, energetic choreography and staging, great vocals, and an amazing cast.”
Jerry’s Girls will star Lourelene
Snedeker, Patrece Bloomfield, and Abbey Alder, and feature Cassidy Joseph, Caroline Macchiarola, Jacqueline Rose, Alexandra Van Hasselt, and Lauren Wickerson.
David Nagy will serve as the production’s Musical Director; Choreography will be by Alex Jorth. Claudia Smith is the show’s Scenic Designer, Stevie Bleich will create the Lighting Design, and Penny Williams is the Costume Designer.
Jerry Herman (1931-2019) has the distinction of being the only composer/lyricist in history to have had three musicals that ran more than 1,500 consecutive performances on Broadway. His first Broadway show was Milk and Honey (1961), followed by Hello, Dolly! (1964), Mame (1966), Dear World (1969), Mack & Mabel (1974), The Grand Tour (1979), La Cage Aux Folles (1983), Jerry’s Girls (1985), and
Jerry Herman
Mrs. Santa Claus (1996) a CBS television special. His string of awards and honors includes multiple Tony Awards, Grammys, Olivier Awards, Drama Desk Awards, the Johnny Mercer Award, the Richard Rodgers Award, the Oscar Hammerstein Award, the Frederick Loewe Award, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Theatre Hall of Fame and The Kennedy Center Honors. For more information about Jerry Herman, visit www.jerryherman.com.
Jerry’s Girls will run January 10 – 19 at Pompano Beach Cultural Center. The theatre is located at 50 West Atlantic Boulevard, in Pompano Beach (33060)
Research suggest that getting good sleep could see men live almost five years longer, and women more than two years longer, than men and women who sleep badly.
Lourelene Snedeker
Michael Ursua
Holiday Celebrations
Kicked Off in Hallandale Beach
Holiday celebrations kicked off here in Hallandale Beach. On Friday Night, Holiday In The Park by our Hallandale Beach Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department. Participants enjoyed family friendly activities, holiday crafts, community performances, visits with Santa, holiday music, inflatables, amusements, food trucks and more. On Saturday, the Police Athletic League (PAL) of Hallandale Beach and our Hallandale Beach Police Department had their annual Shop with A Cop, it was a great success giving kids an experience of shopping for the holidays with our officers. Great job to everyone making the holidays a little brighter. Friends at Foster, hosted a Holiday Luncheon on Wednesday, December 11th, 2024, at 12:00 p.m.4:30 p.m. at Foster Park 609 Northwest 6th Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. Join us in wearing holiday colors and celebrating our Police staff. Please arrive@11:45 a.m., lunch will be served promptly at 12:00 p.m. They will continue with a fun 50/50 raffle, giveaways and much more.
In the past, I have written to address residents’ concerns about the muchneeded repairs to our Infrastructure. This maintenance and repair is what is currently taking place. This week, Water Service in Golden Isles Safe Neighborhood District / Layne Boulevard will briefly experience intermittent service interruption due to the installation of New Water Meter Boxes and Service Line connection to the New Water Main on Layne Boulevard. Work will be conducted from 12/09/2024 to 12/20/2024. No Precautionary Boil Water Notice will be in effect once the water service has been restored. Thank you for your patience as
we completed this necessary Water Main Work.
Our Staff in the Department of Public Works have been busy developing strategic plans to address our City’s Infrastructure. We have been focused on our lift stations replacing, repair and water main projects. Our city was founded 95 years ago and many of our underground pipes are over forty to fifty years old. The current preliminary plan projects an 8 – 10 year build out of the most critical priorities.
Replacing and repairing pipes is just one part of the equation. This work also requires work above-ground. While we obviously must repair the road where work is done, we have a goal to complete our streets. This work includes sidewalks, ADA Compliant Crosswalks and Lighting. Unlike many newer planned developments in our city, when builders built housing and commercial developments, they were not required to perform this work.
The Commission now requires improvements through Development Agreements and Impact Fees. Even with these requirements there are areas in our city that do not even have sidewalks and streetlights. Many areas have not even had repaving for years.
Staff came back with a goal of evaluating and plan repaving. The Public Works team is working on our three-to-four-year plan for roadway improvements which will cover specific streets in every quadrant of the city. I instructed Staff to begin to address specific streets in the beginning of this year in February to March.”
As Mayor, I do want residents to understand that this type of work does not happen overnight. We have heard and listened to our residents and as a resident myself, I would like to see it performed. In
the coming years, we will continue our work on a Government Obligation Bond to fund above ground needs. Currently we are working within our budget and will work with other agencies for funding and grants.
Hope For the Holidays is back! Next week is Thursday, December 19th, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. presented by PAL of Hallandale Beach & hosted by Hallandale Beach Community Events Committee. The focus is to give gifts to those in need. The event is at Foster Park, 609 Northwest 6th Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. The event will fea-
ture local talent, games, toys, raffles, gift cards, food, music, and games. Donations and Volunteers are still needed. Get more information and register by calling Sandra Atkins at: (754) 204-5947, Lileen Robertson at: (954) 559-1124. And/or Marilyn Franks at: (954) 548-5089. 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.
of challenges. During this festive period, thieves and scammers often look for opportunities to exploit the spirit of giving. To help protect your purchases and donations, the Hollywood Police Department offers these tips to ensure your holiday giving stays merry and secure:
Shopping in Stores
• Do not buy more than you can carry. Plan to take someone with you or ask a store employee to help you carry your packages to the car.
• Consider alternate options to pay for your merchandise, such as one-time or multi-use disposable credit cards or money orders.
• Wait until asked before taking out your credit card or checkbook. An enterprising thief would love to shoulder surf to get your account information.
• Tell a security guard or store employee if you see an unattended bag or package. The same applies if you are using mass transit or walking to and from your car.
• Deter pickpockets. Carry your purse close to your body or your wallet inside a coat or front trouser pocket.
• Carry only the credit cards you need and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• When shopping with small children, keep them close to you and make a plan in case you are separated from each other. Select a central meeting place and teach them how to identify mall personnel or security if they need help.
• Teach children to never leave the store until you find one another.
• When parking your vehicle to go shopping, remember where you parked it!
• Always park in a well-lit and well-traveled area. Do not park in a remote dark area.
• Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. You will be ready to unlock the door and will not be delayed by fumbling and looking for your keys.
• When you return to your vehicle, scan the interior of your car to be sure no one is hiding inside. Check to see if you are being followed.
• Do not leave any valuables (i.e. your purse, wallet, or cellular telephone) in plain view in your vehicle.
• Lock your vehicle and put up your windows, even while you are driving.
• If you go to an automatic teller machine (ATM) for cash, check for people around you and make sure it is well-lit and in a safe location.
• Drive defensively. Traffic is heavier during the holidays. Drivers may also have overindulged in holiday spirits.
Shopping Online
• When shopping online, it’s wise to pay with a credit card instead of a debit card if possible. Both allow you to dispute a charge if the merchandise never arrives or is different from what was ordered, however with a debit card, the price will have already been deducted from your bank account and it will take time to get your money back.
• When ordering online, look to ensure your browser is a secure connection. In the address bar, a padlock should appear if your browsing session is secure.
• Some credit card providers offer one-time card numbers to be used for online transactions to further protect your financial information. Contact your financial institution to see if they offer such a service.
• Keep your personal information safe. Never provide your credit card, bank account information or social security number to a stranger. No reputable vendor or service provider will ever initiate a call and ask you for this information over the phone.
• Save all receipts. Print and save all confirmations from your online purchases. Start a file folder to keep all receipts together and to help you verify credit card or bank statements as they come in.
• Beware of the “good deal” scams. Things are not always what they appear to be.
Holiday Charity Scams
• Be sure the charity is legitimate. Check to see if they are a registered charity with the State Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at www.fdacs.gov/ Consumer-Resources/Charities or by calling
• Contact the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance at http://give.org or by calling
to determine if the charity you are donating to has any complaints against them.
• Watch for similar-sounding charities. It’s not unusual for scam artists to choose names that sound like the names of legitimate, widely known charities.
• Never give your credit card number or bank account information to a caller on the phone or someone who sent you an unsolicited email. If you are interested in donating to a charity that has initiated contact with you, ask them to send you a pledge form and information about the charity in the mail. Legitimate charities should have no problem with this request.
• Most tax-exempt organizations are also required to file an annual return or notice with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The IRS Code requires automatic revocation of a charity’s tax-exempt status (some charities are exempt from this requirement) if it fails to file a return for three consecutive years. Publication of an organization’s name on the Auto Revocation list on the IRS website helps potential donors determine the status of a charity. To learn more about the tax-exempt status of a charity, go to www.irs.gov and search the Charities and Non-Profits topics.
• By keeping these essential tips in mind, you can protect your identity, steer clear of scams, and shop with confidence, ensuring a joyful, safe, and stress-free holiday season. For additional safety advice and resources from the Hollywood Police Department, visit www.hollywoodpolice.org.
Hollywood Beach Sweep: Sat., Dec. 14th 7 to 11 a.m. Join volunteers to gather every second Saturday of the month to collect litter and cigarette butts from the sandy beach. Volunteers meet at Charnow Park at Garfield Street and the Broadwalk, at 7 a.m. Please complete the registration form available on the City’s website at www.hollywoodfl.org. Children ages 8 and older are welcome to participate when accompanied by an adult. Gloves and garbage bags will be provided to all volunteers along with safety instructions. Please dress appropriately, wear sunscreen and bring completed registration form. Don’t forget, plastic water bottles are prohibited on Hollywood Beach, so bring a reusable water bottle instead.
Deter pickpockets. Carry your purse close
By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper
Support A Rising Tide For The Holidays
A Social Enterprise With The Primary Mission To Employ Adults With Autism
To make the holidays and vehicles shine even brighter, Rising Tide Car Wash, a groundbreaking social enterprise with a primary mission to employ adults with Autism, is pleased to present two special holiday offerings ideal for gift giving: unlimited three-month club memberships and BOGO gift cards.
Rising Tide Car Wash has three locations in South Florida including Parkland, Margate and Coral Springs, supporting the employment of over 90 professionals with Autism. Rising Tide Car Wash has over 100 alumni who have moved on to new jobs or pursued higher education, proving the value that people with Autism bring to the workforce.
New, Unlimited Club Membership: For a limited time, active club members can gift a three-month membership to Rising Tide Car Wash’s Unlimited Car Wash Club for one $50 Fee, (value of $128.85), 60% off the retail price. This gift supports Rising Tide’s mission of empowering adults with Autism through gainful employment. This is Rising Tide Car Wash’s way to thank its members for supporting Autism employment and helping them spread the shine. The gift recipient will be able to register one vehicle and visit any Rising Tide Car Wash location. The recipient must not currently have a Rising Tide membership.
Rising Tide Car Wash’s
Unlimited Car Wash Club includes:
• Unlimited exterior Signature Ceramics (Rising Tide Car Wash’s top wash) and the use of its free vacuums across all three locations.
• Can be purchased at any Rising Tide Car Wash location with a credit or debit card or online.
• Washes are redeemable at any Rising Tide Car Wash location.
• Fast pass entry with license plate reader technology.
• Memberships may be terminated at any time. Terms and conditions apply.
To purchase a three-month membership as a gift, please visit: https://www. risingtidecarwash.com/holiday-memberpromo-buy.
BOGO50 Gift Cards: Customers receive buy one, get one at 50% off gift cards of any denomination they prefer. For example, if a customer purchases a $10 gift card, he/she can get a second $10 gift card for only $5.
“With these two special holiday offerings, we are pleased to give the gift of exceptional car wash services, while providing young adults with Autism employment and the opportunity to realize their capabilities, gain confidence, attain financial independence and make friends,” said Thomas D’Eri, Co-Founder and COO of Rising Tide Car Wash. “Car Wash Club members help our mission to empower adults with Autism through gainful employment and support our industryleading training program that teaches professionals the employment skills necessary to succeed as valuable members of the community.”
Thomas D’Eri and his father John D’Eri, CEO of Rising Tide Car Wash, co-founded Rising Tide Car Wash to develop a scalable solution for employing individuals
with Autism. They were inspired to do this by watching John’s son and Thomas’ brother Andrew, a vibrant young man with Autism, struggle to find his place in the world. Rising Tide Car Wash has created an innovative model that intentionally designs the work environment in a way that empowers individuals with Autism to thrive and produce extraordinary results.
Now with approximately 90 employees with Autism and three locations, Rising Tide Car Wash is one of the largest employers of people with Autism in the U.S. Currently, unemployment among people with Autism is approximately 85 percent, and at least 500,000 more individuals with Autism will enter the workforce in the next decade. The D’Eris are striving to change the root cause of this unemployment: society views Autism as a disability as opposed to diversity. Rising Tide boasts an alumni network of over 100 individuals with Autism who are working at new jobs in the community.
Rising Tide has been honored with the U.S. Senate Small Business of the Week designation; The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD), Blind Services, and Vocational Rehabilitation’s Florida Exceptional Employer’s Designation; Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation Leader in Adult Autism Award, Community Service Leadership Award from the International Carwash Association® (ICA), Employer of the Year by the Autism Society, Small Business of the Year by South Florida Business Connection, the Autism Society’s Adam Heavner Memorial Award for Employer of the Year,
TEDxCoconutGrove’s Hope Prize, Autism Speaks Community Ally, and more. Thomas D’Eri is also the author of the best-selling book, “The Power of Potential,” where he discusses employment opportunities for workers with Autism, discovers and corrects common problems that typically fly under the radar in businesses, and tells readers the inspiring reason why. The book has received praise from notable authors including Seth Godin, Chip Health, Temple Grandin, Steve Silberman and Chris Yeh.
For more information, please visit: www.risingtidecarwash.com.
Rising Tide Car Wash
Rising Tide Car Wash is a scalable social enterprise with the primary mission to employ adults with Autism. By delivering a first-rate car wash experience to the consumer, Rising Tide strives to inspire communities to change their perception of the capabilities of people with Autism. Through intensive training, team building and caring for the community, Rising Tide sets its employees up for success. With this model, Rising Tide has a goal to provide people with Autism with an opportunity to build a career and achieve an independent lifestyle. Rising Tide Car Wash has three locations: 7201 North State Road 7, Parkland, Florida 33067; 2970 North State Road 7, Margate, Florida 33063; and 10340 Royal Palm Boulevard, Coral Springs, FL 33065. For more info, visit: risingtidecarwash.comOr email: info@risingtidecarwash.com.
Now, therefore you the said DEFENDANT are hereby summoned to answer, if you shall see fit, before the Family Court, to be held at JANUARY 27, 2025 within the County of PROVIDENCE, STATE OF RHODE ISLAND ; then And there to answer said complaint. FAILURE TO APPEAR Will RESULT