Sun Times Issue 04 04 24

Our ability and willingness to adapt in the new AI affected job market is likely to play a big part in determining how successful we are in the world of work in the near future.

As technology, especially AI, continues to disrupt the job market, the need for career adaptability has never been more pressing. White-collar jobs, traditionally seen as secure, face the threat of obsolescence. In response, many, particularly those in their 30’s, are considering career pivots. Many experts are predicting that the job landscape is actually bursting with new opportunities that need people who are willing to adapt. The global outplacement and career development experts at: Career minds.com surveyed 3,000 professionals considering a career switch, to ascertain which cities in the U.S. have the most appeal for their next chapter.

The top 10 cities for a career switch are as follows:

1. Asheville, North Carolina

Survey respondents rated Asheville as the premier choice for relocating in pursuit of a new career direction. Nestled in the

“The City of Hallandale Beach is committed to becoming Carbon Neutral by 2055”

Hallandale Beach

City Manager Dr. Jeremy Earle

In a significant stride towards a greener future, the City of Hallandale Beach, in partnership with the Hallandale Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (HBCRA), unveiled its groundbreaking initiative – the “Cloud” all-electric bus fleet on April 4th, 2024, during a ribboncutting ceremony at Hallandale Beach City Hall.

During the unveiling event, the City Commission, county officials, and program partners joined City Manager and HBCRA Executive Director Dr. Jeremy Earle to welcome the fleet of nine electric buses to the City. Attendees enjoyed test rides around the community and learned more about how the Cloud service is furthering the City’s commitment to keeping

Building

The Future

FPL Engineer And Former Competitor Helps Students

Build Award-Winning Robots

The clock is ticking, and Zach Dean is rushing to put the final touches on a robot that’s minutes away from battling other machines. His high school Robotics Team, S.P.A.M., is preparing to enter the makeshift arena inside Broward County’s Convention Center where game controllers connected to laptops weave robots through a speed and obstacle course.

For the last six weeks, these teenagers have been building a robot from scratch, complete with high-powered brushless motors and 3D vision systems, out of a 6,000-square-foot warehouse the Martin County School District provided them this year. It was an investment the community made for its schools, enabling them to expand Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Programs and reach more students.

Now, S.P.A.M. must battle other high schools from around the world in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition. Students are wielding power drills, hex wrenches and laptops to fix any bugs in the robot’s coding before the match.

“We learn how to build, code and wire robots,” Dean said. “I’m a mechanical lead, so I help design the robot and build parts to protect it as well.”

Dean credits Team Mentor Elizabeth “Lily” Pawlak for expanding his machine

skills and teaching him how to use the power tools and industrial machinery it takes to build the robots.

Twelve years ago, Pawlak was a machinist for S.P.A.M. too, participating in the same competitions her mentees are in now and crafting robot parts from scratch. Today, she’s an equipment reliability engineer supporting Florida Power & Light Company’s (FPL) Nuclear Fleet.

This is Pawlak’s first year mentoring and FPL’s twelfth year sponsoring the competition.

“I wanted to come back and be a mentor because I want to show them that it’s not just a fun thing to do in high school, that it really can be an opportunity for your future,” Pawlak said. “I’ve taught them basic skills like how to use a tape measure to more advanced skills like how to use a mill, a lathe and Computer Numerical Control machining.”

One of the main benefits of STEM Education is helping students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which they can apply beyond the class-

room. It also equips them to succeed in a rapidly changing world driven by technology and innovation. Pawlak said robotics geared her toward engineering. It also helped her start a career at FPL.

“I met a lot of incredible people back then, professionals who volunteered their time at these competitions, and I maintained those connections throughout college,” she said. “These connections really make a difference for the children involved. It shows them that companies care, that companies are interested in them and that they have a future if they ever want to look forward to career opportunities with them.”

Other FPL employees volunteered at the event in the form of judges, mentors, emcees, referees, robot inspectors and even robot doctors. FPL sponsors a Robot Urgent Care, which is a portable machine shop, where company machinists and engineers fix broken robots, so students don’t have to drop out of the competition.

Luckily, S.P.A.M. didn’t need a robot doctor this year. The team took home first place and the quality award for their machine. Two weeks later, they won the Tallahassee Regional as well and are hoping to keep the streak alive at the upcoming FIRST Championship in Texas.

“It’s amazing watching all of their hard work come to fruition,” Pawlak said. “These students feel so great knowing that the county, the school board and companies like FPL are investing in them, supporting them and giving them all of the tools they need to succeed.”

FPL has opened its FPL Robotics Scholarship Application for 2024 to all public and private high school students across FPL’s service area within two or more years in a FIRST Tech Challenge or FIRST Robotics Competition.

Interested students can submit their application through May 15 at: www.FPL.com/Education under STEM Grants and Scholarship.

(L) Elizabeth “Lily” Pawlak is a former FIRST robotics competitor who has returned as a mentor to her high school robotics team S.P.A.M.

(R) The high school robotics team S.P.A.M. won the last two Florida regionals and are hoping to win the upcoming championship in Texas.

approximately 600 metric tons annually, which is equivalent to the savings of 117 homes’ annual electricity usage!

The Cloud represents just one component of Hallandale Beach’s comprehensive electric transportation system, which includes e-bikes, electric vehicles, and more. Notably, the Hallandale Beach Police Department has already integrated 13 all-electric vehicles into its fleet of service vehicles, alongside 49 hybrid Police Interceptor vehicles; the largest fleet in the nation. Of course, there also needs to be the charging infrastructure to support the fleet; there are a number of

Join your neighbors for the first ever Aventura 5K Run and Walk on Sunday, April 14th, 2024. It’s a 5K done the City of Excellence way!

The 5K will start promptly at 7:30 a.m. at Gulfstream Park located at 901 South Federal Highway. Entrance to the event will be located northbound on Biscayne Boulevard. Free parking will be available at Gulfstream Park just north of the event’s location.

Race Day Schedule

• 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM: Race Day Registration

• 7:30 AM: 5K Run/Walk Starts

The organizers of the 5K promise a dynamic experience for participants of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or just looking for a fun family outing, there’s something for everyone. Take in the stunning scenery as you travel through Aventura’s scenic routes, with tree-lined streets, and picturesque waterfront neighborhoods providing the perfect backdrop for the 3.1 mile course. The Aventura 5K is a celebration of health, vitality, and togetherness. Registration will run through April 7th for

In addition to being a better option for the environment, electric vehicles are also a fiscally sound choice for the City. While the upfront cost to purchase electric vehicles is higher than traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles show reduced energy costs when compared to gas costs, saving approximately $10,000 per vehicle, per year.

The realization of the

Cloud fleet, including charging Infrastructure, was made possible through strategic partnerships and funding. A $3.4 Million Grant from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) combined with a $2.5 Million contribution from the City, totaling $5.9 Million, facilitated the implementation of this project.

The Cloud fleet is part of the City’s Progress at the Forefront initiative, outlined in the City’s Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan, which includes more than $320 Million worth of improvements to the City’s Infrastructure, Parks and Recreation Spaces, Public Safety, and Sustainable Development Initiatives,

through 2028. The large-scale improvement plan, which was approved during the September 26th, 2023, City Commission Meeting, marks the City’s commitment to being a leader in Sustainability and Resiliency Initiatives.

In embracing the Cloud electric bus fleet, the City of Hallandale Beach sets a precedent for sustainable Urban Development and reinforces its position as a leader in environmental stewardship. With innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to progress, Hallandale Beach is paving the way toward a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.

Embracing clean, electric power not only reduces carbon emissions but also sets a precedent for higher quality-of-life standards that residents and visitors can take pride in.

Cloud From Page 1A charging stations throughout Hallandale Beach, including the newly installed bus charging stations. Thanks to the adoption of EV and hybrid vehicles, the City is reducing its fleet-related emissions by

From Page 1A

Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, historical architecture, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The city has a growing economy in healthcare, education, and tourism, supported by a strong community focus on sustainability and local businesses. Asheville’s cultural diversity, along with its commitment to environmental initiatives, makes it ideal for families seeking a unique blend of urban amenities and access to nature.

2. Pasadena, California Pasadena emerges from the survey as a top contender for those looking to make a career pivot. Just Northeast of Downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena is more than just the home of the Rose Bowl. It’s a city with a vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, and significant employment opportunities in education, healthcare, and technology. Pasadena is home to the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), providing an environment rich in scientific research and innovation.

3. Oviedo, Florida Oviedo was ranked as the 3rd most popular choice. Close to Orlando, Oviedo offers a suburban feel with access to the economic opportunities in the metropolitan area, including technology, healthcare, and entertainment sectors. Oviedo is known for its top-rated schools, familyoriented community, and outdoor activities. The city’s mix of modern amenities and natural beauty, including nearby lakes and parks, appeals to those looking for a balanced lifestyle.

4. St. Johnsbury, Vermont

Known for its historic charm and cultural institutions, such as the Fairbanks

offers a diversified economy with strengths in education, healthcare, and manufacturing. The town’s quality schools, community events, and access to the Northeast Kingdom’s outdoor recreation opportunities make it appealing for families looking for a mix of cultural richness and natural beauty.

5. Sugar Land, Texas Sugar Land emerged as the 5th most popular among young professionals seeking a different career path. And with good reason - located in the Houston metropolitan area, Sugar Land boasts a diversified economy with strengths in healthcare, energy, and engineering. The city is known for its high standard of living, excellent schools, and master-planned communities, offering a range of cultural, recreational, and shopping amenities. Sugar Land’s commitment to community and economic development makes it attractive for families looking for a balance between urban and suburban living.

6. Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Part of the Kansas City metropolitan area, Lee’s Summit is recognized for its high quality of life, excellent educational system, and strong economy, with growth in healthcare, technology, and manufacturing. The city features numerous parks, a vibrant downtown area, and community events, making it ideal for families seeking a mix of comfort and opportunities.

7. Elko, Nevada

Surprisingly, Elko came in as the 7th most popular among professionals. Historically known as a hub for the mining industry, Elko also has growing sectors in logistics, healthcare, and tourism, thanks to its location along the I-80 corridor and proximity to natural attractions. Elko’s cultural events, including the famous National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, and its outdoor recreational opportunities, pro-

ested in exploring Nevada’s rural lifestyle.

8. Bellingham, Washington

Nestled between the Puget Sound and the North Cascades, Bellingham, which was the 8th most popular, offers a vibrant economy with strengths in healthcare, education (home to Western Washington University), and retail. The city is known for its commitment to sustainability, active outdoor lifestyle, and a thriving arts and music scene. Bellingham’s communityfocused atmosphere, quality schools, and access to outdoor activities make it ideal for families seeking a balance between urban amenities and natural beauty.

9. Loveland, Colorado

Loveland was highlighted as the 9th desirable place for career changers. Situated near Fort Collins, Loveland is known for its strong arts community, including a thriving sculpture scene, and its proximity to the Rocky Mountains. The city has a growing economy with opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, and tech. Loveland’s family-friendly atmosphere, good schools, and dedication to public art projects make it an attractive option for families seeking a balance of culture and outdoor living.

10. Eau Claire, Wisconsin

And rounding up the top 10 of most desirable locations for a career switch was Eau Claire. Known for its strong emphasis on arts and music, Eau Claire has a diversified economy with strengths in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The city hosts numerous cultural events, including the Eau Claire Jazz Festival and the Eaux Claire’s music festival. Eau Claire’s commitment to community development, along with its beautiful parks and recreational opportunities along the Chippewa River, make it ideal for families seeking a vibrant community with a high quality of life.

Four other Florida cities are considered among the most appealing for a career switch among professionals:

16. Port St. Lucie

Positioned on the Treasure Coast, Port St. Lucie is one of Florida’s fastestgrowing cities, with a focus on healthcare, education, and retail industries. The city’s affordable housing, good schools, and low crime rate attract families looking for a peaceful community. Port St. Lucie’s natural beauty, including its rivers and parks, offers a serene backdrop for those seeking a lifestyle change along with new career opportunities.

21. Coral Gables Situated in Miami-Dade County, Coral Gables is a city with a strong economy, boasting sectors like finance, international trade, and healthcare. Known for its Mediterranean-style architecture, strict zoning regulations, and beautiful green spaces, Coral Gables offers a high quality of life with access to Miami’s diverse job market. The city’s excellent schools and family-friendly atmosphere make it appealing for career-minded individuals with families.

26. Plantation

A suburb of Fort Lauderdale, Plantation offers a blend of urban and suburban living with a diverse economy that includes healthcare, retail, and technology sectors. The city is known for its well-planned neighborhoods, parks, and recreational facilities, making it suitable for families. Plantation’s location in the South Florida metropolitan area provides ample opportunities for career growth in various industries.

41. Gainesville Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is a college town with a strong emphasis on education, healthcare, and research. The city’s economy is bolstered by the university and its associated industries, including biotechnology and healthcare. Gainesville offers a youthful atmosphere, cultural diversity, and a variety of recreational activities, making it appealing for families interested in education and innovation.

“Rapid advancements in AI are reshaping the job market at an unprecedented pace, necessitating a new kind of career adaptability. Our survey underscores a growing movement among professionals to not only pivot in their careers but also to relocate to cities where innovation, community, and new opportunities flourish. These top cities are beacons for those who aim to stay ahead in a transforming landscape, offering dynamic environments where career growth goes hand in hand with a fulfilling lifestyle. It’s more than a change of jobs; it’s about finding new horizons where one’s career and life can evolve together in the face of technological change,” says Raymond Lee from: www.Careerminds.com.

a suburban feel with access to the economic opportunities in the metropolitan area. Oviedo, Florida was ranked as the 3rd most popular choice, it’s close to Orlando, and offers

By John & Nisha Whitehead Tyrants don’t

like people who speak truth to power.

Cue the rise of protest laws, which take the government’s intolerance for Free Speech to a whole new level and send the resounding message that resistance is futile.

In fact, ever since the Capitol protests on January 6th, 2021, State Legislatures have introduced a broad array of these laws aimed at criminalizing protest activities. There have been at least 205 proposed laws in 45 states aimed at curtailing the right to peacefully assemble and protest by expanding the definition of rioting, heightening penalties for existing offenses, or creating new crimes associated with assembly.

Weaponized by police, prosecutors, courts and legislatures, these protest laws, along with Free Speech zones, bubble zones, trespass zones, Anti-Bullying Legislation, zero tolerance policies, Hate Crime Laws, and a host of other legalistic maladies have become a convenient means by which to punish individuals who refuse to be muzzled.

In Florida, for instance, legislators passed a “no-go” zone law making it punishable by up to 60 days in jail to remain within 25 feet of working police and other first responders after a warning.

Yet while the growing numbers of protest laws cropping up across the country are sold to the public as necessary to protect private property, public roads or national security, they are a wolf in sheep’s clothing, a thinly disguised plot to discourage anyone from challenging government authority at the expense of our First Amendment Rights.

It doesn’t matter what the source of that discontent might be (police brutality, election outcomes, COVID-19 mandates, the environment, etc.): protest laws, Free Speech zones, no-go zones, bubble zones, trespass zones, Anti-Bullying Legislation, zero tolerance policies, Hate Crime Laws, etc., aim to muzzle every last one of us.

To be very clear, these legislative attempts to redefine and criminalize speech are a backdoor attempt to rewrite the Constitution and render the First Amendment’s robust safeguards null and void.

No matter how you package these

laws, no matter how well-meaning they may sound, no matter how much you may disagree with the protesters or sympathize with the objects of the protest, these proposed laws are aimed at one thing only: discouraging dissent.

This is the painful lesson being imparted with every incident in which someone gets arrested and charged with any of the growing number of contempt charges (ranging from resisting arrest and interference to disorderly conduct, obstruction, and failure to obey a police order) that get trotted out anytime a citi zen voices discontent with the government or challenges or even questions the authority of the powers-that-be.

Journalists have come under particular fire for exercising their right to Freedom Of The Press.

According to U.S. Press Freedom Tracker, the criminalization of routine journalism has become a means by which the government chills lawful First Amendment activity.

Journalists have been arrested or faced dubious charges for “publishing,” asking too many questions of public officials, being “rude” for reporting during a press conference, and being in the vicinity of public protests and demonstrations.

These incidents reflect a growing awareness about the state of Free Speech in America: you may have distinct, protected rights on paper, but dare to exercise those rights, and you risk fines, arrests, injuries and even death.

Case in point: Tony Rupp, a lawyer in Buffalo, NY, found himself arrested and charged with violating the city’s noise ordinance after cursing at an SUV bearing

What the First Amendment protects— and a healthy constitutional republic requires—are citizens who routinely exercise their right to speak truth to power.

Yet there can be no Free Speech for the citizenry when the government speaks in a language of force.

Unfortunately, this is how the government at all levels—federal, state and local—now responds to those who choose to exercise their First Amendment

It’s gotten so bad that merely daring to question, challenge or hesitate when a cop issues an order can get you charged with resisting arrest or disorderly conduct.

For example, College Professor Ersula Ore was slammed to the ground and arrested after she objected to the “disrespectful manner” shown by a campus cop who stopped her in the middle of the street and demanded that she show her ID.

Making matters worse, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling in Nieves v. Bartlett that protects police from lawsuits by persons arrested on bogus “contempt of cop” charges (ranging from resisting arrest and interference to disorderly conduct, obstruction, and failure to obey a police order) that result from lawful First Amendment activities (filming police, asking a question of police, refusing to speak with police).

First Amendment retaliation and wrongful arrest.

The case, as Jesse McKinley writes in The New York Times, is part of a growing debate over “how citizens can criticize public officials at a time of widespread reevaluation of the lengths and limits of Free Speech. That debate has raged everywhere from online forums and college campuses to protests over racial bias in Law Enforcement and the Israel-Hamas War. Book bans and other acts of government censorship have troubled some First Amendment experts. Recently, the Supreme Court heard arguments about a pair of laws — in Florida and Texas — limiting the ability of Social Media companies such as Facebook to ban certain content from their platforms.”

Bottom line: what the architects of the police state want are submissive, compliant, cooperative, obedient, meek citizens who don’t talk back, don’t challenge government authority, don’t speak out against government misconduct, and don’t resist.

Remember, the unspoken freedom

enshrined in the First Amendment is the right to challenge government agents, think freely and openly debate issues without being muzzled or treated like a criminal.

As I point out in my book Battlefield

America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, by muzzling the citizenry, by removing the constitutional steam valves that allow people to speak their minds, air their grievances and contribute to a larger dialogue that hopefully results in a more just world, the government is creating a climate in which violence becomes inevitable.

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

Carbonell

Angie Radosh

irrepressible Dolly Gallagher Levi,

run from April 4th through

Performing

absolutely thrilled and humbled at the idea of doing this role…it has been on my

list for a long time,” Radosh says. “Every actor has their bucket list and as the years go by, the list gets shorter and roles pass us by. When I first read The Matchmaker so many years ago, I fell in love with the character of Dolly Levi and then, seeing Carol Channing in Hello Dolly! …well, that really made me appreciate the character even more….and here I am getting ready to finally bring this wonderful woman to life!!”

Hello, Dolly! is based on Thornton Wilder’s 1938 farce The Merchant of Yonkers, which Wilder revised and retitled The Matchmaker in 1954. The musical, with lyrics and music by Jerry Herman, and book by Michael Stewart, follows the romantic and comic exploits of Dolly Gallagher Levi, turn-of-the century matchmaker and ‘woman who arranges things’, as she travels to Yonkers, New York to find a match for the ‘well-known unmarried half-a-millionaire’ Horace Vandergelder.

Hello, Dolly! premiered on Broadway on January 16th, 1964, at the St. James Theatre. Opening with Carol Channing in the title role, the show ultimately ran for 2,844 performances, making it – at the time – the longest-running Broadway musical in history. Among its many awards, Dolly garnered 10 1964 Tonys (including Best Musical, Author, and Composer/Lyricist) and the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical. Michael Ursua will do double duty as

musicals and its composer and lyricist, Jerry Herman, remains my favorite composer,” Ursua says. It is an absolute classic in musical theater. The characters are loveable, and the audience can identify with their desire for romance and adventure. They bravely choose to step out of their comfort zones for love and yes, for money (which is really just a way to live generously of course).

Dolly helps each of them find their way and find each other. In the end it is the community that is the prize. I am encouraged by these characters … encouraged to be brave, to love more, to be more generous and to dance whenever, however, with whomever I can.”

has assembled a stellar cast to populate Dolly’s 1898 New York setting –along with Radosh, Christopher Dreeson will star as Horace Vandergelder, with Sam Joseph as Cornelius Hackl, Ally Rosenblum (Star of LPAC’s 2023 production of Always…Patsy Cline) as Irene Molloy, Kristi Rose Mills as Minnie Fay, Joel Hunt as Barnaby Tucker, Erica Kaylee as Ermengarde, Dru Loman as Ambrose Kemper, Britte Steele as Ernestina, and Lovell Rose as

Too

the results

were seeking proved elusive, and they lost hope and forward momentum. Stuck in their wellness journeys, they had settled for feeling just “fine” until they found Dayoub Forrest. “Our culture has normalized ‘fine’ as the threshold for wellness,” Dayoub Forrest said. “We deserve better! We should aim to wake up every morning feeling comfortable in our bodies, confident in our capabilities and ready to take on the day.”

In her new book, Own Your Wellness: Giving You the Tools to Break Through Your Health Plateaus, Dayoub Forrest provides readers with the individualized approach she’s long used with her clients to help them successfully break out of their ruts and take ownership of their wellness journeys. “Attaining wellness is not a one-sizefits-all process but rather a unique, personalized path that is constantly evolving,” she said.

In her book, she provides readers with tools, tips and strategies to create unique health and wellness plans that can be adapted and fine-tuned for a lifetime of effective transformation.

Given today’s glut of health information and easy-to-find advice, Dayoub Forrest has found that most people don’t know how to assess whether a diet or fitness routine is right for them.

She writes: “I’ll help you figure out what works for you and what doesn’t. You’ll learn to assess when things need tweaking and when to pull back your efforts. Your wellness is unique and everchanging. The diet and exercise routine you did in your twenties probably isn’t going to cut it in your sixties. Just because your friend lost thirty pounds on the keto diet doesn’t mean you will.”

Dayoub Forrest’s comprehensive approach embraces change and fits within any lifestyle program, such as paleo, keto, vegetarian or macro. She focuses on four foundational aspects of health — Nourish (Nutrition), Move (Exercise), Explore (Uncover the Best You) and Enhance (Supplementation) — and provides worksheets and exercises so readers can personalize each category’s tips and strategies into actionable steps that lead to success.

In the book, she shares:

• Simple and easy-to-follow advice on approaching food through the lens of supporting long-term health and personalized goals. Do you want to maintain lean muscle mass or drop 50 pounds? Depending on your end goal, your dietary choices will be different.

• A sustainable and adaptable exercise program for all ages and fitness levels.

• Comprehensive analysis on how to track and monitor your unique health issues, as well as advice on how to approach testing.

• Detailed information about supplements, vitamins and minerals, as well as what to ask before taking them.

Own Your Wellness will help readers break through health plateaus and create a cohesive and actionable plan for every stage of their wellness journey.

“The goal should not be to stay the same,” Dayoub Forrest writes. “The goal should be to constantly shift your methods to help you embrace the new version of yourself.”

The Author Daniella Dayoub Forrest is a personal trainer and health coach who has worked in health and wellness for over two decades, including many years in Silicon Valley. She helps clients navigate everchanging health and wellness advice and distill it into actionable, personalized plans. She has helped people of all ages, disease states and states of mind understand that wellness strategies must constantly evolve and change. Her role as a mom, wife and entrepreneur, as well as her own battles with health issues including: an Eating Disorder, Osteoporosis, Amenorrhea, major injuries and rehabilitation, have shaped her philosophy toward health and wellness. She launched her coaching and wellness company, DFitLife, in 2007.

Visit: https://www.dfitlife.com/ for more information.

of incredible premieres, filmmaker instruction and

parties,” said Joe Bilancio, Director

for OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival. “This year’s groundbreaking films hail from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Ukraine, Spain, Austria and beyond…all with the goal of bringing us together in universal love and acceptance by promoting tolerance, equality, understanding and empathy.”

This year’s opening night film taking place at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 18th at Silverspot Cinema Miami is Turtles (Les Tortues) (Belgium/Canada, 2023). Directed by David Lambert, this relationship comedy-drama follows the ups and downs of married couple Thom and Henri, together for 35 years, now facing retired life and what happens when a love turns sour. The W Miami Afterparty will take place immediately following the screening.

Brand new to the Miami Line-Up this year is a Latin Spotlight night set for Saturday, April 20th at Silverspot Cinema Miami, with four films from Latin America. At 8:00 p.m. is the North American premiere of Blue Lights (Luces Azules)(Argentina, 2023). Directed by Lucas Santa Ana, Blue Lights is a vibrant, engaging and sophisticated dramedy that plays out during a 70th birthday celebration. Friends and family gather, tensions soars and secrets are revealed leaving each guest to explore their idea of friends, lovers and self. The film explores the intricacies of love, loss, friendship and the evolving dynamics of Gay and Lesbian relationships in a changing world. Festival Goers can also choose to see All The Silence (Tod El Silencio) (Mexico, 2023), directed by Diego Del Rio at 8:15 p.m. This film will be in Spanish with Sign Language. This poignant film focuses on Miriam, an actress who is also a sign language teacher, who begins a downward spiral when she learns that she will become fully deaf. Despite having deaf parents, deaf friends and a deaf girlfriend, she refuses to accept a world without sound and starts to tear her life apart.

Two nights of Cocktails & Cinema will celebrate our local filmmakers, cast and crews from students to seasoned veterans of the industry at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, April 22nd and Tuesday, April 23rd at Silverspot Cinema Miami. This year’s South Florida Shorts program includes Double Life by Mellie Parks and Trinity Byonie, Frag by Christopher Frentzel, Myrna’s Secret Spies by Andy Perrott, and Open Dialogue: Generation QueerZ by Freddy Rodriguez. On both nights, there will be a Q&A after the screening and a reception will be held in the OUTshine Lounge at the Silverspot immediately following.

Max, a 25-year-old aspiring writer living in London, becomes a sex worker with the pseudonym Sebastian in order to research his debut novel and this secret double-life becomes a source of liberation and transformation in Sebastian (Finland/UK, 2024), this year’s Centerpiece Film. The film will be screened at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24th at Silverspot

(TL) Brand new to the Miami line-up this year is a Latin Spotlight night set for Saturday, April 20, The evening will highlight films for both men and women.

(TR) Turtles (Les Tortues) (Belgium/Canada, 2023) will open the 26th edition of OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival Miami at 7 p.m. on April 18.

(B) The North American premiere of Mascarpone: The Rainbow Cake (Maschile Plural) (Italy, 2024) will be OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival Miami’s Closing Night Film commencing at 6:30 pm. on Sunday, April 28.

Cinema Miami. Writer/Director Mikko Makela’s second feature offers an intriguing exploration of sex, identity, restraint and abandon. An afterparty will take place immediately following the film.

To encourage more local LGBTQ+ filmmakers to tell their stories, OUTshine will present its Filmmaker Panel on Saturday, April 27th at 2:00 p.m. at Regal South Beach. This special event will feature local directors Hansel Porras Garcia, Director of Febrero and OOLITE Arts; Chris Molina, Director of Fallen Fruit, I Wonder If I’m Growing and programmer with the Miami Film Festival; Freddy Rodriguez, Director of Open Dialogues: Stories from the LGBTQ Community; Filmmaker Bootcat; Joe Tufte, Miami Dade College film professor; Noah Salzman, Director of Clocked and Angelica Bourland, Director of Warrior and Unstuck.

Also, on April 27th is the Men’s Spotlight slice-of-life comedy film F.L.Y. (USA, 2023), directed by Rafael Albarran and Trent Kendrick. When two exboyfriends (Max and Rafael), who haven’t seen each other in five years, reunite -the COVID-19 Pandemic hits, and they’re forced to quarantine together. The Ladies Spotlight Film will be the East Coast premiere of Backspot (Canada, 2023), directed by D.W. Waterson. Riley is given the chance to cheer with the all-star squad, Thunderhawks. With a competition looming, Riley must navigate her crippling anxiety, her relationship with her girlfriend,

and her desperate need for approval from her new coach.

Additional selections of note include the North American premieres of Lessons of Tolerance (Ukraine, 2023), The Fisherman’s Daughter (La Estrategia Del Mero) (Colombia, 2023), and Sunflower (Australia, 2023); the Southeast premiere of Gondola (Georgia, 2023); the Transfocused films Close To You (Canada and UK, 2023) starring Elliott Page and The Summer with Carmen (Greece, 2024); the Queer Festival premiere of the AwardWinning Riley (USA, 2023), and the documentary Mad About The Boy: The Noel Coward Story (UK, 2023) narrated by Alan Cumming.

The North American premiere of Mascarpone: The Rainbow Cake (Maschile Plural) (Italy, 2024) will be the Closing Night Film commencing at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 28th at Regal South Beach. Director Alesandro Haigh presents an intoxicating drama about sexy duo Antonio and Luca who are trying to pick up the pieces three years after their friend Denis’s passing. While each went their separate ways, when the two meet again Antonio mistakes Luca’s desire to reconnect as more than just a pure gesture of friendship. Immediately following at 8:00 p.m., a celebratory South Beach Group Hotel Closing Night Party that will take place at the Miami Beach Women’s Club, 2401 Pine Tree Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33140.

To make attending OUTshine’s

incredible films and special events more accessible, the City of Miami is offering FREE Uber Rides to and from Silverspot Cinema, within a 25 mile radius valid from April 18th through April 24th!

OUTrageous, OUTspoken, and OUTstanding, this year’s OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival Miami is sponsored, in part, by Miami Dade County, the City of Miami Beach and Gilead.

Ticket subscription packages and individual tickets go on sale on March 23rd for the 41st Edition of the OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival. For a full schedule of films, parties and special events or for more information, please visit: www. outshinefilm.com.

The Festival The OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival, celebrating 26 years in Miami and an upcoming 16 years in Fort Lauderdale, is a bi-annual film festival with a mission to inspire, entertain, and educate; encouraging a sense of community through international and culturally diverse film, video and other media that offer historical, contemporary and entertaining perspectives on the LGBTQ+ Experience. The NonProfit festival is critically and internationally acclaimed as one of the largest LGBTQ+ cultural arts happenings in the world. For more information and tickets, visit: www.outshinefilm.com And follow us on Facebook at: @OUTshine FilmFestival. On Twitter at: @OUTshine Film. & on Instagram at: @OUTshineFilm.

A Letter From The Mayor Beach Chairs And Where To Put Them

“My priority is our residents and in agreement to allow storage like it always had been.”

Over the past weekend I have received letters raising concerns over beach chair concessions on Hallandale Beach.

During our March

Mother-Daughter Duo Shares

Steps That Repaired Their Fractured Relationship

This first, most important bond, the mother-daughter relationship, can be fraught with pitfalls and devastating ups and downs — the seeds for which may have been planted generations ago. Sometimes, it can seem like the conflicts have no end, leaving the mother or daughter exhausted, exasperated and sad for all that has been lost. If this sounds familiar, have no fear; help is at hand.

The Mother-Daughter Relationship

Makeover: 4 Steps to Bring Back the Love, written by Bestselling Author Leslie Glass and her daughter, Award-Winning Documentarian Lindsey Glass, is a guide to help readers repair the fractures in their mother-daughter relationships. Through sharing their own compelling, tumultuous history, Leslie and Lindsey help readers understand that even if mothers and daughters go off track, go to war and part ways for years, they can still find their way back to friendship, understanding and love. “When mothers and daughters don’t communicate in loving ways, misunder-

standings lead to heartbreak. At the end of the day we all just want to love and be loved,” explains Leslie. Lindsey adds, “It wasn’t until I wrote this book that I fully understood my mom’s experience as a woman and a parent. Writing brought a new level of compassion and healing to our relationship.”

Leslie and Lindsey have lived through their own traumas and devastating ups and downs in their relationship. They’ve turned their experiences into a successful platform for helping others and share them here in this book. They use their own tumultuous story, told from their respective points of view, to help mothers and daughters understand that even if you go off track, go to war, part ways for years, you can still find your way back to friendship, understanding, and love. For the first time, Leslie and Lindsey will share their secret sauce for healing, broken down into four steps:

• Revealing one’s backstory

• Exploring emotional and personality styles

• Understanding conflicts and triggers

• Learning the tools to restore the love

By following these steps, readers can repair their fractured relationships, keep them strong and discover a positive pathway to peace — no matter how far apart they feel they are.

Dr. Deborah Sweet, Psychologist and Trauma Specialist had this to say: “I have never seen a book quite like this. Reading the perspectives of both mother and

daughter was a unique experience. When we are ‘in it,’ it is hard to see past our pain. Leslie and Lindsey widened the lens on mother-daughter relationships so we could see not only the complexity of the problems, but also the journey to repair them. This makeover is a great book on making up with excellent exercises and thought-provoking writing prompts. For best results, I recommend both mother and daughter read it simultaneously and see what happens!”

Leslie Glass

Leslie Glass, with her daughter

Lindsey, is Editor of the popular Online Recovery and Wellness Magazine Reach Out Recovery. Together they produced the 2016 ASAM Media Award Winning Documentary, The Secret World of Recovery and the WEDU/PBS special The Silent Majority. Leslie Glass is a Journalist and the Author of twelve novels including nine USA Today and New York Times Bestselling Suspense Novels featuring NYPD Det. Sgt. April Woo. She is the Author of The Teen Guide to Health, and recovery workbooks Find Your True Colors in 12 Steps and the children’s coloring book, The 8 C’s that Help Me Be All Right.

Lindsey Glass

Lindsey Glass grew up in New York City and received her B.A. from Johns Hopkins University and her M.A. from New York University. She is an Author, Screenwriter, and Cofounder of Reach Out Recovery where her articles about rela-

To date there is no policy adopted by the commission. There is no agreement for scope of

nor Contract for a I do agree that a policy needs to be adopted as soon as possible for uniform storage, as well as possibly preset regulations and cleaning of preset areas ASAP. While Staff implemented there was no storage, this was never brought to us. My goal since finding out on March 5th was to expedite an agreement to a minimum to provide for chair storage at the While our Commissioners Vice Mayor Lima Taub and Commissioner Lazarow were supportive of taking action they wanted more information whereas like me, they were not aware that storage was As of the writing of this article,

tionships and recovery reach millions of readers worldwide. Lindsey has written Screenplays, TV Shows and Co-Produced Award-Winning Documentaries, including The Secret World of Recovery and The Silent Majority, which premiered on PBS in 2014. Lindsey has worked in Publishing and Communications and served as a Recovery Advocate for twenty years from testifying in Congress to teaching her 2019 self-help book, 100 Tips for Growing Up, to Recovery and Gang Reentry Programs. Lindsey is a Frequent Featured Speaker, a proud Member of Rotary International, and a practicing Buddhist. She lives in Los Angeles.

For emergency services call 954-280-6950, technicians will arrive within the hour to begin the process of helping you get your life back. With services such as emergency packing and storing of salvageable belongings, following fire or flood, and standing water removal also available, they handle it all for you from AZ. The cost is most often fully covered by your homeowner’s insurance, leaving you with no worries about chasing down reimbursements from the insurance company. Face it, you have enough worries, this doesn’t need to be one of them. Titan Restoration Inc. works with all Florida homeowners’ insurance companies.

To assess the situation Titan Restoration Inc. offers state-ofthe-art leak detection, using infra-red cameras. This allows for non-invasive, non-messy leak detection. No need to tear up dry wall or floors just to find the source of the leak. Once the leaks have been found, you will be referred to a trusted, licensed plumber. After the repairs’, State-ofthe-art specialized equipment is used to detect moisture levels in the air, dehumidifiers are placed in the affected area, and a Florida-licensed Mold Inspector will be sent to do a mold inspection. Samples will be taken of the air and mold. The specimens will be sent to their private laboratory for testing. This will determine which type of mold they are dealing with. Some molds are more toxic than others such as black mold, knowing the type, allows for proper precautions to be taken to ensure effective treatment and removal of the mold. Depending on the severity of the damages, drywall and flooring may need to be replaced to effectively rid your home or business of mold. Titan Restoration Inc. is a full remodeling and restoration company, specializing in kitchen and bath remodels, as well as a wide variety of other services. Throughout this process, Titan Restoration Inc. will be working with your insurance company every step of the way.

You should never attempt to remove mold without a licensed professional, it is unsafe, and hazardous to your health. Mold thrives in dark, damp environments such as under the kitchen or bathroom sinks, in unventilated basements, and closed in laundry rooms. It can even be found behind drywall. Because of the heat and humidity which Florida is known for, it provides a perfect environment for mold to thrive. Vigilance is key when it comes to mold remediation. Bleach and paint alone will not eliminate the problem, only hide it, allowing it to grow unseen and spread. This causes more damage to your home and health over time. People and pets all respond differently to mold and mildew. For some, it may be watery eyes, itchy throat, cough, or skin irritation. Confusion, disorientation, and even hallucinations can also be signs of mold exposure. For others, exposure to mold can cause very serious, even life-threatening health problems. When it comes to your health and the safety of your loved ones, trust the experts at Titan Restoration Inc. to have you breathing easier, in a mold-free environment.

Once the mold has been identified, the mold remediation process begins. Titan Restoration Inc. will dry out the affected area

using fans and dehumidifiers. Followed by thoroughly cleansing and sanitizing the affected areas using antimicrobial agents effective for mold-eliminating and prevention. HEPA- air purifiers are used to capture any airborne mold spores, leaving you with clean air. Green cleaners are used for mildew removal. Since mold spores are airborne and invisible to the naked eye it is necessary to deep clean the air ducts, carpets, furnishings, and

April Is Autism Acceptance Month

Venue Offers Three Events For The Neuro-diverse Community

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts’ sensory-inclusive events continue in April during Autism Acceptance Month with an interactive class and two live performances. The programs are designed 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.

No experience is necessary to enjoy the interactive and engaging Theater Games & Dancing All Abilities event on Sunday, April 7 at 11 a.m. in the JM Family Studio and the David & I. Lorraine Thomas Creative Learning Suites. The class will be divided into one for ages 414 and another for those 15 and older. The event is followed by refreshments. All Abilities classes are made possible with support from the Taft Foundation.

For sensory-inclusive performances, the Broward Center offers an area adjacent to the theater designated as the ABA Centers of Florida Sensory Quiet Room with a specially trained therapist to provide audience support. Patrons may bring

(L) During Autism Acceptance Month there will be an interactive classes (Theater Games & Dancing April 7) and two live performances (June B. Jones April 20 and The Magic of Kevin Spencer April 27). (R) The programs are designed to create a welcoming and supportive environment for children and adults on the autism spectrum as well as individuals with other sensitivity issues or disabilities.

Broward Center also offers sensory bags, that can be requested at the front of house desk, which contain noise cancelling headphones, sunglasses, fidgets and sunglasses clips to accommodate families that might be overwhelmed by the lights, sounds and crowds. Outspoken, precocious, lovable Junie

The Sensory-Inclusive Series brings

The Magic of Kevin Spencer to the Abdo New River Room at the Broward Center on Saturday, April 27 at 11 a.m. Featuring award-winning magician Kevin Spencer, this fun-filled show combines storytelling, stage magic and audience participation. Audiences will enjoy a post-show meet and greet with Spencer. The Broward Center’s sensoryinclusive programming is made possible through the generous support of ABA

B. Jones stars in a sensory-inclusive performance offered on Saturday, April 20 at 11 a.m. in the Amaturo Theater. This colorful, funny, fast-paced musical includes new friends, new glasses, sugar cookies, the annual kickball tournament and other various first-grade, angst-ridden situations. This musical is based on four volumes in Barbara Park’s Junie B. Jones series of books. Audiences will enjoy a pre-show arts and crafts with Young At Art Museum one hour before the show.

Centers of Florida, The Batchelor Foundation, Florida Support Autism Programs License Plate, The Gore Family Memorial Foundation Trust, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and The Taft Foundation with special thanks to UMNSU CARD for their in-kind support. 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.

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. For more information visit BrowardCenter.org, like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/ BrowardCenter and Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @BrowardCenter, subscribe to our channel at YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with #BrowardCenter.