Sun Times Issue 04 11 24

Tripadvisor Best Of The Best Beaches

Hollywood Beach is listed at #4 in the ranking

In the realm of coastal paradises, where sandy shores meet crystalline waters, Hollywood Beach emerges as a true gem. Recently bestowed with the prestigious title of being one of Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best Beaches, Hollywood Beach has solidified its position among the top coastal destinations in the United States. In a sea of over 8 million listings, achieving this recognition is a testament to Hollywood Beach’s unparalleled allure and the unforgettable experiences it offers to travelers from around the globe.

The Travelers’ Choice Awards

Best of the Best accolade is not merely a token of popularity but a reflection of excellence. It signifies a consistent stream of glowing reviews and enthusiastic recommendations from the Tripadvisor community over a year-long span. To be among the select few, constituting less than 1% of all listings, is an achievement that resonates deeply within the hearts of those who call Hollywood Beach their home and the travelers who have been captivated by its charm.

Nestled along the sun-kissed coastline of Florida, Hollywood

A Groundbreaking Addition

A Dramatic Future For The Art And Culture Center/Hollywood

Nestled within the Center’s historic Kagey Home facility, the new wing promises to be a testament to contemporary design and architectural innovation.

In a city brimming with cultural richness and artistic vibrancy, the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood stands as a beacon of creative expression and community engagement. As part of the City of Hollywood’s visionary initiative to enhance arts programming, a groundbreaking addition is set to unfold, ushering in a new era of cultural enrichment and educational advancement. The unveiling of a state-of-the-art arts education wing marks a significant milestone in the Center’s journey towards fostering creativity and nurturing talent within the heart of Hollywood. Scheduled for Tuesday, April 30th, at 6:00 pm, the official Groundbreaking Ceremony will

herald the commencement of construction for this transformative project. The dramatic design will merge with the existing two-story, 1924 Mediterranean Revival architecture of the Kagey Home, which houses the Center’s Galleries and Administrative Offices.

Nestled within the Center’s historic Kagey Home facility, the new wing promises to be a testament to contemporary design and architectural innovation, the construction of a new, nearly 5,000-square-foot arts education wing will be contemporary.

top silhouette, seamlessly integrates with the timeless elegance of the existing Mediterranean Revival architecture, preserving the Center’s rich heritage while embracing the spirit of modernity.

Moreover, the inclusion of an outdoor courtyard promises to elevate the visitor experience, offering a serene retreat amidst the bustling energy of Downtown Hollywood. As the new wing takes shape, it will not only redefine the physical landscape of the Center but also symbolize a harmonious fusion of past and present, bridging the architectural legacy of the Kagey Home with the bold vision for the future, adjoining functional spaces built about 100 years apart.

A Tail-Waggin’ Good Time

Best Pet-Friendly Restaurants And Bars In SoFlo

and to truly show them the attention they deserve. Our daily lives can be quite hectic and sometimes our pets might not get the extra time together they deserve. A good way to spend time together is to just include them in something you might already be doing, like going out to dinner. Not all restaurants allow dogs but here are a few that are dog friendly and can offer a tail-waggin’ good time for you and your furry friend.

Ocean Social by Chef Tristen Epps It’s time to experience a tailwaggin’ good time at Ocean Social by Chef Tristen Epps, the signature restaurant at the iconic Eden Roc Miami Beach.

At the core of this expansion lies a commitment to providing unparalleled resources for visual arts and multimedia education. Equipped with studio classrooms and a multifunctional room tailored for dance, drama, artist talks, and film screenings, the new wing will serve as a hub for creativity and collaboration. Its design, characterized by a striking façade and a distinctive roof- Culture Center, Page 4A

Iron Deficiency A Growing Concern Among Women

tected due to a lack of awareness among women and their

According to the latest guidelines from the FIGO Ob/Gyn society, it is recommended that all women undergo iron testing “throughout their life,” especially during pregnancies, to combat this pervasive problem.

Since 2020, efforts have been underway to raise awareness about the seriousness of Iron . The ramifications are substantial; women suffering y experience

fatigue and cognitive impairment, while pregnant women face an increased risk of complications during childbirth. Moreover, babies born to mothers with Iron Deficiency are at risk of developmental issues, and the mothers themselves may experience Postpartum Depression. This issue also exacerbates gender and racial inequalities. Women are expected to have lower Blood Hemoglobin levels than men, affecting their ability to concentrate at work and potentially leading to more missed

The story of the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is deeply intertwined with the history of its illustrious surround-

Perfectly perched where the sea meets the sky, Ocean Social delivers soulful yet elevated coastal cuisine in an unparalleled oceanfront setting for you and your four-legged friends to enjoy. Two-legged guests can feast on the seafood-forward menu that features the freshest locally sourced ingredients and incorporates the flavors of Miami while embracing diverse Caribbean and global influences, a trademark of Chef Epps’ award-winning cuisine. The Tail-Waggin, Page 10A

days. Furthermore, teenage girls with low iron may struggle academically, perpetuating educational disparities. Iron Deficiency disproportionately affects

Hispanic and African American women and their infants, highlighting broader racial inequali-

Dr. Steve Fein, Founder of Fem Infusion Centers

From Page 1A

ings. Housed within the meticulously pre served estate of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Kagey, the Center pays homage to a bygone era while embracing the evolving cultural tap estry of Hollywood. Originally constructed in 1924, the Kagey Home stands as a tes tament to the city’s enduring spirit, serv ing as a beacon of resilience amidst the tumultuous upheavals of history.

The home is a beautiful example of Mediterranean Revival architecture. It is one of Hollywood’s first show-place homes and was completed a year before the City of Hollywood was incorporated.

Jack Kagey was a pivotal figure in Hollywood’s early development, he played a vital role in shaping the landscape of the burgeoning community. As the Sales Manager of Joseph W. Young’s Hollywood Land and Water Company, Kagey epitomized the entrepreneurial zeal that defined the era of the 1920’s Real Estate Boom. The construction of his eponymous home, funded by winnings from a prestigious sales contest, heralded a new chapter in the city’s architectural legacy.

Despite facing the wrath of a devastating hurricane in 1926, the Kagey Home endured, standing as a resilient testament to the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants. The home continued to be used as a private residence until 1960, when it was converted into a funeral home and doubled in size to 12,000 square feet. The expansion included the addition of a chapel along the east side, which later became the Center’s Main Gallery. Many of the home’s original features from the 1920’s have been retained, such as the glass doorknobs, wrought-iron railings, tiles on the second-floor balcony, wood moldings, floors and arches. In January of 1990, the property was purchased by the City of Hollywood to become the new home of the Art and Culture Center/ Hollywood, which was previously located in a building on Hollywood Beach. The Mansion was renovated with Private and Historical Grant monies and was lovingly restored to its former glory, reopening its doors to the public on February 2nd, 1992.

Today, the Center stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Kagey Home, weaving together elements of the past with a forward-thinking approach to arts education and comCulture Center

chapter of growth and innovation, enrich ing the lives of residents and visitors alike.

The expansion of the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is not merely a physical endeavor but a testament to the city’s unwavering commitment to the arts. Through strategic investments and visionary leadership, Hollywood has emerged as a cultural epicenter, fostering creativity and nurturing talent across generations.

As the new wing takes shape, it serves as

The Art and Culture Center/ Hollywood’s groundbreaking addition heralds a dramatic future filled with boundless possibilities. Rooted in a rich tapestry of history and heritage, yet poised on the cusp of innovation and progress, the Center stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to shape communities and transform lives. Through its programs and facilities, the Center fosters a creative environment where new and chal-

bitions and art-making activities that reflect the highest standards of artistry and diversity.

The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is located at 1650 Harrison Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020, one block south of Hollywood Boulevard at the corner of South 17th Avenue and Harrison Street, across from ArtsPark at Young Circle. There is ample free parking in two lots on the east and west sides of the Art and Culture Center. For information, call Visitor Services at: (954) 921-3274.

For citizens that would like to attend the official Groundbreaking Ceremony, please RSVP your attendance at: www.eventbrite.com/e/ground-breaking-for-the-art-and-culture-center-arts-education-center-tickets-871790828837?aff=oddtdtcreator As construction commences and dreams take flight, let us celebrate the spirit of creativity that defines Hollywood and propels us towards a brighter tomorrow.

A New Ordinance Is In the Works

Last week I reported on an issue that has really impacted our beach residents. Our city beach is only one mile long with the supermajority abutting residential condominiums. South City Park was developed as part of our Parks Master Plan and includes, walk paths, playground area, Volleyball Court, Bocce Court, a covered multipurpose pavilion, four smaller covered picnic areas, restrooms, a concession stand and public parking. It is a gem that is used by not just our residents but visitors looking for a quiet beach. It is not commercial at all.

Our beach is also unique due to how active the shoreline is. We have a beach where there are hotspots for beach erosion. This is where the ocean wave and north south currents combined with the Fort Lauderdale Port system has created adverse reactions to our beach sand.

Residents who have not lived here a long time may not have seen waves breaking on the seawall at Parker Dorado, our most southern condominium. They have had no beach at some points in time. Wave actions, storms and sea level rise have continued to erode our beaches. Mother Nature is unpredictable. She can take sand away and at times redeposit it back.

Over the past twenty years there have been 3 beach renourishment projects. The

most recent was just completed. As I wrote last week, now that it is completed, and our beach is back, condominiums are now wanting to utilize that beach and store beach chairs and in some cases present them for their owners.

This practice is not unusual. Cities along the coast often have regulations allowing storage of chairs and umbrellas. The rules vary from city to city. Counties also have varying rules. Our city has rules, but they do not allow storage or commercial use of the beach without written approval. In light of this our condominium owners have requested the ability to have chairs and storage.

Over the past week I have researched these varying rules and submitted my suggestion to the commission on Monday the 8th for discussion at our regular meeting. Below are the suggestions. I will report next week and update that hopefully will include notice of the first reading of the ordinance. Beach Furniture Operators that are party to a contract with an association representing property that directly abuts the public beach may obtain a permit to provide beach chairs on an on-demand basis to the frontage. Operators may only provide setup, storage and/or other beach furniture services to residents or guests of the building only. This ordinance does not guarantee the ability to store chairs. Permits may be

issued and removed based on the shoreline conditions. The City Manager or his designee will approve designated storage areas depending on safety, availability, and shoreline conditions to be included in a beach furniture operation agreement.

No beach furniture within 12 feet of a lifeguard tower. No beach furniture shall block access to the beach for safety personnel and their vehicles. No storage boxes or similar type structures are allowed on the beach unless specifically part of a planned area and permitted.

Beach chairs that are stored overnight must be covered and secured to protect sea turtles from crawling underneath the chairs. Beach chairs shall be secured or tied to the ground. No storage of chairs permitted on dunes.

Requests to relocate beach furniture shall be complied with immediately. Failure to remove chairs will be considered a violation of the permit and revocation. City to remove chairs and items in violation of Code or not relocated in accordance with a written request from the City. The cost of removal and storage of chairs and other equipment will be the responsibility of the condominium.

The maximum number of chairs that may be stored will be less than 10% of the number of units, or a specific number to be determined by the city manager or his designee to provide safe enjoyable

By The City

access to the beach. Operators will be allowed to pre-set up to a certain percent of their overall chair count. Additional chairs may be placed on an as needed basis dependent upon an agreed operations plan agreement.

All Condominium/Vendors that provide beach chairs shall be required to provide approved trash receptacle and disposal of such trash at their own costs. Removal of and use of city receptacles is prohibited. All beach chair operators shall clean up their respective areas throughout the day and hand rake and clean the area at the end of the day.

I have attempted to include all concerns and ideas that have been presented to me. This is a work in process and the commission must agree by a majority vote. We set the policies of the city, and our City Manager is in charge of day-today operations. The ordinance also will not prevent our city from providing chairs or from contracting with services at our parks.

As always feel free to contact me anytime with your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City better! I can be reached at: jcooper@cohb.org. Or: joycooper@aol.com. Or Facebook Mayor Joy Cooper. You can always call my Office number at: (954) 457-1318. Or Call/Text me at: (954) 632-5700. Working for you! Always have! Always will!

By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper

Hallandale Beach South City Park

This year’s Passover holiday has extra meaning for all of us. The holiday is often celebrated with great pomp and ceremony, especially on the first night, when a special family meal called the Seder is held. The Festival of Passover is meant to be one of great rejoicing and for many this year getting together with family and friends may even have more meaning than in years past. Local entrepreneur Jacqueline Kels knows that giving personal attention in today’s busy world is what truly sets her apart. She and her staff can assist you over the phone with a personal gift to celebrate the relationships you cherish. A gift of a trendy fragrance, perfume, or designer eyewear for a loved one can truly make the holiday extra special. They can even wrap it for you for pick up, or ship it for you wherever your family member or loved one is this time of year.

With the way the world is today we all look forward to this time of year and saving a little money in this economy is an added bonus, so shopping at Brand International checks all the boxes!

Jacqueline and her team at Brand International Perfumes have the latest scents in stock and are offering savings right through the end of April on fragrances and eyewear! The friendly staff will help you find the perfect fragrance or gift set for your loved one and while you’re shopping they will assist you with finding a fragrance for yourself as well. We all know that finding that new signature scent

or a gift for the special people in your life can be a challenge, so why not take all the guesswork out of it and let the professionals help you.

Brand International Perfumes is the one stop for bargains and designer eyewear & fragrances. They have certainly earned the reputation for being the place to go for fragrance gifts for every member of the family and you can guarantee that there will be plenty of convenient parking. You may also be interested in out-of-stock or hard to find fragrances from your favorite designers. Brand International Perfumes has all the modern and hard to find fragrances you are looking for at discounted prices. In addition to designer fragrances, you can find some new designer eyewear for that special someone. When it comes to trendy fragrances and fashionable eyewear, nobody has the selection and quality that Brand International Perfumes in Hallandale Beach does. From the time you walk in, you are greeted by the most knowledgeable and friendly team that Jacqueline Kels has put together.

The fragrance experts at Brand International can help you find that scent that defines you, all at huge discounts. Plus while you are at Brand International,

selecting your perfect scent, check out the fabulous designer eyewear and sunglasses. They can even gift wrap your purchase!

The Lowest Prices Around

It’s not often that you can purchase quality fragrances at such discounted prices. At Brand International Perfume, high-end items that go from $150, $200, $300 retail - such as Creed, FlowerBomb by Victor & Rolf - are not found in most discount perfume shops, but Jacqueline carries them at significant discounts, along with the other big names - such as Mancera, Tom Ford, Carolina Herrera Good Girl, Bad Boy, Maison Francis, Kurkdjian Paris, Amouage, Montale and Juliette Has A Gun to name a few.

Dubai Fragrances

Brand International Perfume also has the hottest selection of Dubai Perfumes available. If you want to find a gift that your special someone has never received, Brand International Perfume has the newest, most popular fragrances from the UAE at the best prices, look no further than Brand International Perfume. All of this is possible thanks to Jacqueline’s team of experts who have a genuine passion for fragrances from around the world.

Designer Eyewear Jacqueline and her Staff have quite a selection of fashionable eyewear in the latest styles. When it comes to frameseveryone is searching for that perfect look that fits their personality. Maybe you saw someone wearing a style that you felt would look great on you - or flipping through a magazine - that pair of glasses happened to be just what you were looking for. Come by and Jacqueline will help you with your selection. “What we want to give our customers is a great selection at lower prices and something that everyone will notice,” Jacqueline explained. “Your eyes are so important - and we make it easier than ever for you to come in, bring your prescription and we will find the perfect frame and will have you looking and feeling great about yourself.” You don’t need to be a fashion expert to find eyeglass frames that look great on you.

From designer brand name sunglasses to those frames that everyone is talking about, Brand International has it all - and there is really no reason to waste your gas and drive all over south Florida. Among the trendy frames that everyone is wearing these days - include: Vera Wang, Prada, Chanel, Burberry, Oakley, Ray-Ban, Dior, Tiffany, Versace and many more. So with the vast selection of trendy eyewear, and thousands of brand name perfumes, the staff will be able to help you find exactly what you are looking for. When it comes to having the best deals, with savings on perfume sets to designer brand name sunglasses, there is really no reason to drive all over. With the guidance from her late husband, Elliot, Jacqueline has put her own signature into this very popular business, creating a vision that both had some years ago.

Customer Service

Brand International Perfume prides itself on getting anything the customer wants. If it is still out there, if it is still being made, Jacqueline will get it. Even if it’s not being made and very hard to find, she probably has it. Living by Elliot’s motto: “If you can’t find it, we may have it.” This is certainly a destination that shoppers head to. Brand International Perfume’s customer service is second to none. They are open 7 days, with almost three decades of experience Jacqueline and her talented Staff can fit your style, your budget and save you time as well.

However, overcoming this public health challenge requires addressing various barriers, including the lack of awareness, understanding, and access to infusion centers. In response, the establishment of Fem Iron Infusions Centers in 2021 has aimed to bridge these gaps. By offering education, telemedicine consultations, and iron infusions, these centers have already made a significant impact, having administered 13,000 infusions and improved the lives of 6,000 women and their children.

Their team is made up of experienced and knowledgeable infusion nurses, advanced practice providers, and physicians. They are passionate about helping their patients achieve their health goals, and are committed to providing the highest quality care and customer service. To tackle this epidemic collectively, it is imperative to encourage young women to undergo ferritin testing for iron levels, either through their healthcare providers or dedicated facilities like Fem Iron Infusions. Together, let us confront this pressing issue.

Steve Fein, MD, MPH Founder of Fem Infusion Centers pregnant women with

Beach beckons visitors with its expansive stretch of shoreline, spanning seven miles of pristine beauty. Here, the Atlantic Ocean dances against the sandy expanse, creating a picturesque backdrop that invites leisurely strolls and moments of tranquil contemplation. But what truly sets Hollywood Beach apart is its iconic Broadwalk, a meandering promenade that winds its way along the coast for nearly 2.5 miles.

The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk isn’t just a pedestrian thoroughfare; it’s a vibrant artery pulsating with energy and life. Lined with an eclectic array of eateries, boutique shops, and inviting cafes, the Broadwalk is a haven for both locals and tourists alike. As the salty breeze mingles with the tantalizing aromas of fresh seafood and savory snacks, visitors find themselves immersed in a sensory tapestry that captures the essence of coastal living.

But it’s not just about indulging the palate; the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk offers a plethora of activities to suit every taste and inclination. Whether it’s a leisurely bike ride along the coast, a brisk jog as the sun rises over the horizon, or a leisurely afternoon spent people-watching from a cozy cafe, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Families flock to Charnow Park, where children frolic in the whimsical water playground, their laughter mingling with the sound of crashing waves.

One of the defining features of Hollywood Beach is its inclusive atmosphere, where diversity thrives and everyone is welcome. From young couples seeking a romantic getaway to families in search of wholesome fun, from solo travelers embarking on a journey of selfdiscovery to retirees savoring the joys of retirement, Hollywood Beach embraces all who venture to its shores with open arms.

But what truly sets Hollywood Beach apart is its sense of community. Beyond its natural beauty and myriad attractions, it’s the warmth and hospitality of the people that leave an indelible mark on the hearts of visitors. Whether it’s a friendly smile from a local vendor, a spontaneous conversation with a fellow traveler, or a shared sunset that ignites a sense of camaraderie, Hollywood Beach fosters connections that transcend geographical boundaries.

In the wake of its latest accolade as one of Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best Beaches, Hollywood Beach stands poised at the pinnacle of coastal excellence. Yet, amidst the accolades and acclaim, it remains a place of humble beauty, where the rhythm of the ocean echoes

convenient. However,

important to be aware of heightened

security risks during Tax Season that could lead to Identity Theft. In 2023, the IRS flagged over a million tax returns for possible Identity Theft and found a 31% increase in fraudulent returns from the previous year.

With a large majority of taxpayers opt ing to file electronically, the threat of cybercriminals using your SSN to file and steal your return is real. The experts at LifeLock have pro tips on how to safe guard your identity by learning about common scams and the steps to take to keep your information safe during Tax Season.

Online criminals that prey on taxpayers seek ways to obtain personal and financial information to steal your identity, file tax returns under your name to steal your refund, or convince you to send them Money, Gift Cards or Cryptocurrencies.

While you may not think you’re vulner able to obvious tax and IRS imposter scams, criminals are using convincingly sophisticated tactics. And they love to prey on late filers. So, it’s vital to stay alert when it comes to your personal information as the tax deadline approaches.

Watch for these tax scams, here are four common tactics you may see, and how to avoid falling for them:

If you don’t find information on

1. Phishy IRS Schemes These scams are designed to convince you that a message supposedly from the IRS is legitimate, tricking you into clicking an embedded link in an email or text.

These links then lead to fake IRS websites created to record information you input. Or they contact you by phone or text pretending to be from the IRS and rope you into a scam. Some fraudsters will use phishing scams to get your personal information, threaten or trick you into paying a “balance you owe” using Gift Cards, Cryptocurrency or Wire Transfers.

If you would like to verify a contact from the IRS go to: www.IRS.gov and search on the letter, notice, or form number. Please be aware fraudsters often modify legitimate IRS letters and forms. You can also find information at Understanding your notice or letter or by searching forms and instructions. For additional information please see How to know it’s really the IRS calling or knocking on your door.

If it is legitimate, you’ll find instructions on how to respond. If the completion of a form is required and it’s provided by a questionable contact, you should verify the form is identical to the same form on: www.IRS.gov by searching forms and instructions.

via email, text or phone without reaching out by mail first. The IRS does not accept payments via Gift Cards, Cryptocurrency or Wire Transfers. For concerns about your taxes from this year or any year, go straight to: www.IRS.gov.

If an email looks “phishy,”

Social Media at: @magic13brewing. Private event inquiries can be sent via: https://magic13brewing.com/privateevents/

Lona Cocina & Tequileria

social; Telephone: (786) 961-6043.

13 Brewing Co. Magic 13 Brewing Co. warmly welcomes everybody including kids, adults and pets as Miami’s go-to spot to enjoy sports games, craft beer, live entertainment, delectable eats and spirits made in-house. Magic 13 is a sprawling 10,000-square-foot space, brewery and entertainment hub, founded by Ricardo Romano, Richard Fayad, and brewmaster Jean Gabriel Taboada, offering a unique experience within a 350-capacity indooroutdoor setting. Boasting a Key Westinspired patio, the venue hosts live music events, Salsa lessons, and more. Partnering with Meat n Bone Kitchen, Magic 13 serves up shareable appetizers, Buns & Buns selections, and grill specialties. With a stocked bar of Spirits and a lineup of 13 Beers, including core profiles like Islander Lager and Hazy IPA, Magic 13 Brewing Co. caters to Beer enthusiasts, foodies, and entertainment seekers alike, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. Magic 13 Brewing Co. is located in the Little River neighborhood of Miami at 340 Northeast 61st Street, Miami, Florida 33137.

Follow all of M13’s goings-ons on

Located on the stunning A1A strip of Fort Lauderdale Beach, Lona Cocina & Tequileria is the ultimate destination for dining and having a beverage with your four-legged friend. Situated oceanside at The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, Lona’s expansive oceanside terrace and newly constructed Tequila Terrace offer two open-air, pet-friendly dining locations with pet perks including water bowls and treats. Lona is located at 321 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. For more info, visit: www.lona restaurant.com/ or Call: (954) 245-3069. Follow on Instagram at: @lonarestaurantfll

R House Wynwood Situated in the heart of the Wynwood Arts District, one of Miami’s most culturally dense neighborhoods, R House is a contemporary restaurant & bar heralded for its soulful dinner offerings, as well as its bustling weekend brunch and evening programming that welcome all dogs and their owners. The indoor/ outdoor Wynwood destination is known best for its modern Latin American plates, extravagant drag performances, and lively atmosphere inspired by the vivacious flavors of Miami. Chef Rocco Carulli’s menu is nothing short of a love letter to Miami – mixing the flavors of the Magic City’s Latin flair, his classic culinary training, and deep experience with global cuisine. R House, located at 2727 Northwest 2nd Avenue, Miami, Florida 33127, located in Wynwood. Telephone: (305) 576-0201; rhousewynwood.com

La Fuga

La Fuga, the Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resorts signature

restaurant on the lobby level, showcases coastal Italian cuisine from Executive Chef Michael Mayer. The restaurant welcomes guests with comfortable booths and a buzzy central bar complimented perfectly by live Jazz entertainment Thursday through Saturday evenings. The menu offers a bevy of Italian favorites including salads, pastas, and entrees including plenty of seafood options. Highlights include Polpette di Vitello, Risotto Cacio e Pepe all’Osso Buco, Pesce Spada alla Siciliana and Lasagne al Forno. La Fuga also has a stellar bar program featuring classic and Innovative Cocktails, Exquisite Wine Selections, and Beer. For those who want to get an early start to their day, La Fuga offers breakfast daily as well from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Happy Hour is available daily at La Fuga from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with specially priced bites and drinks. La Fuga is located at 2900 Riomar Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. For more information, visit: www.shorebreakfortlauderdale.com; Telephone: (954) 908-7301.

Escape Rooftop Bar

Located at the Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, Escape Rooftop Bar offers one of the best Intracoastal Views in the entire city. Serving sunsets daily, the west-facing rooftop is an imbibers paradise and the ideal location for stellar libations while watching the sunset. Guests can enjoy the creative new slate of craft cocktails, Rosé by the glass and bottle and local Craft Beer, and Canned Cocktails. Lunch options include: Prosciutto Bruschetta; Mussels Escabeche and Croquettes, as well as fresh salads such as a classic Caesar, Greek Quinoa, and Shrimp & Avocado. Handhelds include Falafel, Fennel Crusted Ahi Tuna, Porchetta Panini, and an Escape Burger among others. Later on the menu shifts to just tapas, perfect for a pre-dinner snack.

Among Escape’s food offerings are Specialty Signature Cocktails named for their flavor profile that offer a relaxed, balanced taste of the tropics. Happy Hour is available daily at Escape Rooftop Bar from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with specially priced bites and drinks. Sunset Hour is available daily with select additional items on offer, a Special Sunset Hour Signature Cocktail as well as Rosé by the glass and bottle for the 30 minutes prior to and after sunset. Escape Rooftop Bar is located at 2900 Riomar Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. For more information, visit: www.shorebreakfortlauderdale.com; Telephone: (954) 908-7301.

Baoshi Food Hall + Bar Baoshi, the innovative Asian food hall, bar, and market officially opened its doors to the public in late December 2023. Located in the heart of Pembroke Pines, right off bustling Pines Boulevard, Baoshi brings together a curated local Asian market with exotic snacks, candies, and sodas; five distinct food vendors including Temple Street Eatery, Gangnam Chikn, Poke OG, Gold Marquess, and Boba Street Cafe; and a Stylish Cocktail Bar and Lounge that offers an extensive list of Craft Cocktails, Japanese Whiskeys, Sakes, Draft Beers, and more – all under one roof. From the sizzling street food of Bangkok and the savory creations of Shanghai to the delicate flavors of Kyoto, the food hall is a celebration for the taste buds. Baoshi is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 12 a.m. The Bar is open until 11:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 2:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Baoshi is located at 8525 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33024. For more information, please visit: www.baoshifoodhall.com. Follow along on Social Media on Instagram at: @BaoshiFoodHall.

This celebration promises a day filled with adventure, excitement, and exploration as participants embark on a journey through the heart of Downtown Miami, courtesy of TriRail’s newly expanded service to MiamiCentral Station. With an array of attractions, shopping havens, and dining hotspots awaiting discovery, “Ride & Play” presents an unparalleled opportunity to experience the dynamic energy of South Florida’s urban landscape.

David Dech, the Executive Director of SFRTA/Tri-Rail, expresses his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Tri-Rail’s ‘Ride & Play’ is another invitation for people to come out and experience our improved service and expansion into MiamiCentral Station.” With a warm welcome extended to all, Tri-Rail invites passengers to indulge in a day of leisurely travel aboard the train, accompanied by the captivating sights and sounds of Downtown Miami. Offering weekend fares at a mere $5 for

unlimited travel throughout the day, TriRail ensures that accessibility and affordability are paramount, allowing everyone to partake in the festivities.

Central to the “Ride & Play” experience are the onboard activities that promise entertainment for passengers of all ages. As southbound trains P669 and P671 set off on their journey, attendees will be treated to a whimsical spectacle featuring costumed characters, balloon artists, and magicians, adding a touch of enchantment to the travel experience. Beyond the train’s confines, the adventure continues with exclusive offers from Downtown Miami partners, redeemable simply by presenting a valid Tri-Rail ticket or EASY Card.

Among the enticing offerings awaiting “Ride & Play” participants are discounts and complimentary treats from esteemed establishments such as HistoryMiami Museum, Julia and Henry’s, and Starbucks. History enthusiasts can avail themselves of a $2 discount on General Admission to HistoryMiami Museum, while culinary aficionados can delight in a complimentary beer at Boxelder for adults

aged 21 and above, or savor a 10% discount at Puffles Hong Kong for younger patrons. For a refreshing interlude, Starbucks extends a generous gesture with a complimentary tall iced or hot regular coffee, ensuring that passengers remain refreshed and energized throughout their urban odyssey. Tri-Rail’s extensive network of 19 conveniently located stations across South Florida serves as the gateway to the “Ride & Play” adventure, facilitating seamless travel for attendees from various locales.

With weekend fares priced at a nominal $5 for a round-trip journey, and children under 5 enjoying complimentary rides, TriRail reaffirms its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, fostering an environment where everyone can partake in the festivities.

Beyond the excitement of “Ride & Play,” Tri-Rail stands as a cornerstone of South Florida’s Regional Transportation Infrastructure, offering reliable train services every day of the year. Whether commuting to work, attending school, accessing major airports, or exploring popular destinations, Tri-Rail serves as a vital link

connecting communities and facilitating seamless travel experiences for residents

With its commitment to providing exceptional service and fostering memorable experiences, Tri-Rail continues to redefine commuter rail travel in South Florida, inviting passengers to embark on unforgettable journeys of discovery and delight.

For those eager to embark on the “Ride & Play” adventure or seeking further information on train schedules and services, Tri-Rail extends a warm invitation to visit their official website at: www.tri-rail.com or contact their hotline at: 1 (800) TRI-RAIL - 1 (800) 874-7245.

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.