Sun Times Issue 02 23 23

Teen Gun Violence

A Safe Place For Hurting And Troubled Teens

‘Having a safe, loving, nurturing, caring environment where teens know that they’re heard and can trust the leaders is vital for the safety of the community - and can even save lives’

Unfortunately, gun violence among teen communities is only on the rise. Due to the increase in gun homicides among children and teenagers during 2020, gun deaths have surpassed vehiclerelated deaths as the leading cause of death for Americans ages 1 to 17. School shootings are becoming frequent across the country. Since the Columbine High School Massacre in 1999, 311,000 students have experienced gun violence at 331 schools, resulting in the deaths of at least 185 children and educators as well as another 369 injured by nonfatal gun wounds.

One such tragedy was the Parkland School Shooting in South Florida on February 14th, 2018. The community was horrified at the loss of 17 innocent lives. The shooter pled guilty and was sentenced to life in prison without parole in November 2022, but those impacted by this act of senseless violence are still reeling from the sudden loss of loved ones five years later.

Youth For Christ’s (YFC, Gun Violence, Page 7A

Spring Into Enjoying Great Entertainment

Hilarious Comedy, Heartwarming Cinema, Unforgettable Music And Jaw-dropping Magic

In the Spring an arts lover’s fancy turns to thoughts of hilarious comedy, heartwarming cinema, unforgettable music and jaw-dropping magic which can all be found this March as Becky O’Brien Celebrates the Music of Judy Garland.

The City of Aventura Presents The Beat Goes On Starring Lisa McClowry as Cher on Friday, March 3rd, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. This international touring show features American Singer/Actress Lisa McClowry as the “Goddess Of Pop” in her one woman Broadway-style live stage show. The concert features Cher’s hits spanning from the ‘60s to now

including “I Got You Babe,” “Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves,” “I Found Someone,” “If I Could Turn Back Time,” “Woman’s World,” “Welcome to Burlesque,” “Believe” and ABBA songs from her Dancing Queen Album. The Beat Goes On features a live band, video, multiple costume changes, dynamic dialogue, humor and fun-filled audience participation. Tickets are $53$57.

The City of Aventura Presents The Latin Divos as they add their Latin flair to “Divo-ise” Latin pop, traditional opera and timeless classics on Saturday, March 4th, 2023 at 8 p.m. The Miami-based

Stop Taxpayer Funding Of Traffickers

Human & Drug Traffickers Can Currently Receive Government Benefits

Among other items the act prohibits anyone charged with drug or human trafficking at our international borders or in our territorial waters from receiving federal government benefits

trio has performed in prestigious theaters and venues in the U.S., Spain, Mexico, Cuba and Panama and have shared the stage with some of the biggest names in Latin music. Their newly-released album, Forever Classics, contains audience favorites such as “Hallelujah,” “Caruso,” “O sole mio” and “Quizas Quizas.” Born and raised in Cuba, where music and arts vibrate on every corner, it’s no wonder that The Latin Divos have quickly captured the atten-

Congresswoman Kat Cammack of Florida and U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee introduced legislation recently to ensure human and drug traffickers cannot continue to defraud the American taxpayer while they await prosecution and conviction. The bill, “Stop Taxpayer Funding Of Traffickers Act,” comes after several visits to the border over the last two years by Congress woman Cammack, Senator Blackburn and their colleagues.

While Congresswoman Cammack led the House version of the Bill, Senators Cindy HydeSmith (R-MS) and Katie Britt (RAL) co-sponsored the Senate legislation.

“Over the last two years, we’ve seen the horrific consequences of the Biden Border Crisis, including the devastating toll on our communities nationwide from drug and human trafficking. In Marion County, Florida, our sheriff’s department

Don’t Bow Down America Is A

By John & Nisha Whitehead

Eighteenth century social theorist Jeremy Bentham

“panopticon prison” has become a model for the modern surveillance state in which the populace is constantly being watched, controlled and managed by the powers-that-be

The government wants us to bow down to its dictates.

It wants us to buy into the fantasy that we are living the dream, when in fact, we are trapped in an endless nightmare of servitude and oppression.

Prison Disguised As Paradise

Indeed, with every passing day, life in the American Police State increasingly resembles life in the dystopian television series The Prisoner.

First broadcast 55 years ago in the U.S., The Prisoner— described as “James Bond meets George Orwell filtered through Franz Kafka”—confronted societal themes that are still relevant today: the rise of a police state, the loss of freedom, round-the-clock surveillance, the corruption of government, totalitarianism, weaponization, group think, mass marketing and the

tendency of human beings to meekly accept their lot in life as prisoners in a prison of their own making.

Perhaps the best visual debate ever on individuality and freedom, The Prisoner centers around a British secret agent who abruptly resigns only to find himself imprisoned in a virtual prison disguised as a seaside paradise with parks and green fields, recreational activities and even a butler.

While luxurious, the Village’s inhabitants have no true freedom, they cannot leave the

Village, they are under constant surveillance, all of their movements tracked by militarized drones and stripped of their individuality so that they are iden-

tified only by numbers.

“I am not a number. I am a free man,” is the mantra chanted

The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center has an amazing March line-up

Tip of The Spear

DPW Is The Heart of the City That Makes Everything Work

By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper

Hallandale Beach Public Works Director

Jeff Odoms, MA, FAEM and his team have been the “tip of the spear” in the efforts to completely revamp Hallandale Beach’s infrastructure from top to bottom.

“I personally want to thank Director Odoms and the entire Team for their professionalism and hard work!”

Mayor, Joy Cooper

Municipal Governments have many services that they perform. Obviously Police and Fire Services are right up there at the top of the list. There are other services that are not always that obvious unless you lose them. Public Works encompass water, sanitation, sewer, drainage, fleet services, trash removal, cemetery, sidewalks, lighting and streets. I like to say DPW (Department of Public Works) is the heart of the City that makes everything work. There are many employees that contribute to the operations of our City. Beginning with Director Jeff Odoms.

Director Odoms came to us after working in the City of West Palm Beach for 25 years. He heads a team of assistant directors, engineers, operators and other specially trained employees. Dr. Jeremy Earle addressed the amazing accomplishments of the entire team in a recent update from Jeff Odoms. As he said, “you have been the “tip of the spear” in our efforts to completely revamp our Infrastructure from top to bottom.”

Recently we were informed that Peter Kunen will be leaving the Engineering Team. While on staff he led many efforts including safe neighborhood projects, late night and weekend repair work projects. We wish him luck on his new endeavors. Also, in the Engineering Team we have Assistant City Engineer Carla Sanchez and GIS Coordinator Wilson Sanchez. This Team is tasked with monitoring projects and outside vendors to make

sure all projects are moving forward and are on budget.

On the managerial side of operations we have Assistant Director Casimir and Operations Manager Kelvin Thomas. This Team oversees operations of Plants, Pumping Stations and Distribution Pipes. With our aged Infrastructure this job has been very daunting and demanding. The Water Services Team has accomplished the First Green Belt Six Sigma Project. Six Sigma is a set of standards that was established back in 1986 by an engineer to improve quality delivery of services.

The Team set a goal to fix water breaks within 4 hours. Their first test case was 4.5 hours. After evaluation and setting up different counter measures the repairs of pipes were improved. Now all repairs due to this new approach have repairs done in an average of 3 hours. This means water pipe failures are having less impact on residents and businesses.

On the Sanitation Sewer Side Operations Manager Thompson, Supervisor Travis Tucker and Mechanic Jermaine Eleby also have been working tirelessly. Often getting called out all hours, sometimes early mornings for sewer alarms. This Team is tasked with protecting our City and citizens from sewer overflows. Even at peak capacity and Hollywood asking for reduced flow they have balanced the system without environmental impacts.

The DPW Team is also tasked with Environmental Compliance. EC Manger Jocelyn Brogan and her team follows all properties in the City to ensure they are in compliance with drainage and treating their out flows. This includes grease traps and drains.

The Team managing water meters has been faced with a year-long task of fixing the entire system. If you have been following my column, I have informed our readers on the malfunctioning of the meters throughout the City. They have

been working with a special team to replace the malfunctioning meters and set up a new business model for billings. The core to funding our future replacement and repairs will depend on accurate billings and collections.

Stormwater Teams continue to monitor and clean our City drains. With the two large systems in the Southwest and Northeast Quadrants ensuring that these pumps are operational and this is vital to the safety and security of our residents and properties.

Another “tip of the spear” is Mary Francis Jeannot the Fiscal and Budgetary Manager of DPW. She was transferred from the City Manager’s Office years ago. She took with her a true understanding of the internal processes in the City which she has utilized and expanded on. Through hard work she has improved close out of issues by 70% in one year alone. She not only works on the water side but works with Fleet Manager Yesid Caballero on equipment and fuel purchasing. Alongside Master Mechanic Byron Taylor they truly have kept us literally moving.

The Sanitation Team led by James Simmons continues to perform under demanding conditions. Years ago, there were anywhere from 30-40 employees in Sanitation. Through automation and operational changes like purchasing front end loaders for commercial accounts the team consists of 15. Currently we are reviewing all of Sanitation Operations with a focus on maintaining it in house. Once completed the study will be brought to the Commission.

In addition to DPW Director Odoms oversees the maintenance of all facilities, streets and the cemetery. The past year the Commission approved revamping the cemetery and we are looking at how the service can be expanded and improved. This year is the first that funds of $500,000 have been approved for street

Lend Your Support for Proposed Traffic Calming and Capacity Improvement Projects in Hollywood

The City of Hollywood is applying for Broward County Surtax funding for two traffic calming and capacity improvement projects. The 2023 Surtax Cycle 3 Project Application window is currently open and successful applications must demonstrate “community support” for the proposed projects. The projects identified are as follows:

• North 46th Avenue Traffic Capacity Improvement

Project consists of widening the pavement at three key intersections to improve vehicular capacity and overall corridor safety. Intersections include the southern side of Hollywood Boulevard, Taft Street and at Stirling Road.

• Taft Street Traffic Capacity Improvement Project consists of the widening of pavement at seven key intersections on Taft Street between North 40th Avenue and North 22nd Avenue.

The goal of these projects is to improve vehicular capacity and overall corridor safety. The City is offering a number of online options where you can lend your support for the projects:

• Lend your support via the City’s Facebook account. Post a comment of support on the project post or DM the account: https:// www.facebook.com/CityOfHollywoodFL/posts/ 562392529255637

• Sign the online petition: https://fl-

Joseph A. SCARANO

hollywood2.civicplus.com/FormCenter/ Engineering-Architectural-Design-Transpo-17/ Proposed-Traffic-Calming-and-Capacity-Im-302

• Email them: mjohnson@hollywoodfl.org

PROJECT DETAILS Funding is available for this project as part of the Broward County Surtax Program. The application is due March 10th with funding to be determined later this year. If awarded, funding will become available in 2027 for design and construction would begin in 2028.

PROPOSED PROJECT SCOPE: North 46 Avenue

• Design an additional shared through/right turn lane on N. 46th Avenue at its intersection with the southern side of Hollywood Boulevard

• Create an exclusive left turn lane with improved vehicular storage at all approaches at 46th Avenue and Taft and 46th Avenue and Stirling Road

• Extend existing left turn lanes on N. 46th Avenue at North Hills Drive to the south of Stirling Road along with traffic signal reconstruction, and additional median opening modifications

• Improved street and pedestrian lighting

• Signage and pavement markings

• Milling and pavement resurfacing

• ADA and sidewalk improvements

• Drainage improvements

• Buffered bike lanes

Presidential

PROPOSED PROJECT SCOPE: Taft Street

• Design exclusive left-turn storage lanes on all four intersections at Taft Street and 22nd Avenue

• Provide exclusive left-turn storage lanes on both the north and south N. 24th Avenue approaches

• Provide exclusive left-turn storage lanes on all four intersection approaches on N. 25th Avenue

• Exclusive left-turn storage lanes on both the north and south N. 26th Avenue approaches

• Installation of new traffic signal pending Broward County approval at Taft and 26th Avenue

• Provide additional vehicular storage capacity to the existing eastbound lane on Taft Street at N 28th Avenue

• Additional vehicular storage capacity on the eastbound lane of Taft Street at N. 31st Avenue

• Installation of dedicated left turn lanes on both north and south bound lanes of N. 31st Ave Taft

• Extend the existing left-turn lane on Taft at N. 35th Avenue to increase vehicular storage of the westbound lane

• Add a dedicated right turn lane to the eastbound lane of Taft Street at N 35th Avenue

• Improved street and pedestrian lighting

• Signage and pavement markings, Milling and pavement resurfacing, and ADA improvements

• Drainage improvements

• Buffered bike lanes

For additional questions, please contact City of Hollywood Senior Project Manager Mark Johnson at: mjohnson@hollywoodfl.org.

resurfacing throughout the City. As we continue to fine tune our Staff levels to ensure we are doing the work that is needed in our facilities, we also need to be retrofitted for Staff. This work is being performed in-house by our Wonder Construction Team.

In closing Director Odoms shared that by count there have been 56 projects executed with 45 this year alone. This did not include the large-scale replacement projects. Replacement of catch basins and curb inlet improvements. There were also over 20 boiled waters tested, performed and cleared. The other great news is we have received a $14.9 Million Dollar Grant for Pumping Stations, a $2.8 Million Dollar Grant for a 70 inch force main project and are bonding $53 Million Dollar for additional improvements.

I personally want to thank Director Odoms and the entire Team for their professionalism and hard work! They are making our City run 24/7/365 and are now planning for a positive and sustainable future!

As always, I am available for your questions, concerns, and ideas to help make our City a better place. Please feel free to reach out to me at my Office: (954) 457-1318. On my Cell/ Text: (954) 632-5700. Or email at: jcooper@cohb.org

Operation Paintbrush • Saturday, Feb. 25

The City of Hollywood Department of Public Works is holding Operation Paintbrush this Saturday, February 25th from 8 a.m. until noon. Operation Paintbrush provides up to 20 gallons of high-quality exterior latex paint for free to single-family homeowners and non-profit organizations in Hollywood. 100% of the latex paint collected through the Broward County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program is recycled into new, high-quality exterior paint which is then provided to participating cities at no cost. Paint can be picked up at the Department of Public Works, 1600 S. Park Road in Hollywood beginning at 8 a.m. Distribution is on a first-come, first-served basis while the City’s supply lasts. To participate, you must provide your current driver’s license with Hollywood address and a current utility bill as proof of Hollywood residency. The paint colors offered are off-white, beige, terracotta, gray, and turquoise.

Hollywood Mardi Gras • Sunday, Feb. 26th

Let the Good Times Roll as Mardi Gras returns to Downtown Hollywood this Sunday, February 26th from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. This family friendly event will feature a live music, artisan vendors, Cajun cuisine, children’s activities and most importantly BEADS!

For more info email them at: info@hollywood flmardigras.com & for parking visit: http://flhollywood2.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/ View/5411/Parking-Map?bidId=

$50-$55. The Aventura International Film Series continues with EO, the winner of the 2022 Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, on Tuesday, March 7th, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. A gray donkey with melancholic eyes and a curious spirit, EO begins his life as a circus performer before escaping on a trek across the Polish and Italian countryside in a journey marked by absurdity and warmth in equal measure. Legendary Filmmaker Jerzy Skolimowski directs one of his most free and visually inventive films yet, placing the viewer directly in the heart and mind of the fourlegged protagonist. Not Rated, the film is presented in Polish, Italian, French and Spanish with English subtitles. The Aventura International Film Series, presented by the City of Aventura, is hosted by Shelly Isaacs who introduces the film and leads a post-screening discussion. Screenings are general admission with the lobby doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the auditorium at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12.

Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida

Presents Chipollino, a two-act ballet on Saturday, March 11th, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 12th, 2023 at 3:00 p.m.

This fun and enjoyable ballet is adapted for American audiences with music by Karen Khachaturian and under the artistic direction of Vladimir Isaaev, who also choreographed. Based on a fairy tale by Gianni Rodari, the story tells the adventures of a group of fruits and vegetables living within The Town of Limonia where little green onion Chipollino and her friends Ms. Carrot and Ms. Daysi live funny adventures. Naughty Chipollino steps on the foot of Prince Lemon and his father Chipollone is taken to prison by mistake. At the castle, Ms. Cherry and her beautiful flower friends help him liberate his beloved father but not before facing a series of mischievous and risky moments. Tickets are $40.

Pop, Rock & Doo Wopp Live!

Presents Chris Ruggiero on Friday, March 10th, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. If you love songs like “Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” “My Cherie Amour,” “One” & “This Magic Moment,” you’ll relish an evening spent with Ruggiero and his unique interpretations of those and more that are vocal triumphs featuring brand new orchestrations by Pop-Rock

Legend Charlie Calello. Ruggiero, who has also collaborated with Legendary Pop Stars such as Darlene Love, The Cyrkle & Peter Noone, takes his audiences on a journey through the golden age of rock and roll and breathes new life into the timeless music of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. Tickets are $49-$59.

The City of Aventura Presents an evening of the impossible with Mike Super Magic & Illusion: Third Time’s a Charm! on Saturday, March 18th, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. This bigger and better show features

Don’t Bow Down

From Page 1A

in each episode of The Prisoner, which was largely written and directed by Patrick McGoohan, who also played the title role of Number Six, the imprisoned government agent.

Throughout the series, Number Six is subjected to interrogation tactics, torture, hallucinogenic drugs, identity theft, mind control, dream manipulation, various forms of social indoctrination and physical coercion in order to “persuade” him to comply, give up, give in and subjugate himself to the will of the powers-that-be. Number Six refuses to comply.

In every episode, Number Six resists the Village’s indoctrination methods, struggles to maintain his own identity and attempts to escape his captors. “I will not make any deals with you,” he pointedly remarks to Number Two, the Village administrator a.k.a. prison warden. “I’ve resigned. I will not be pushed, filed, stamped, indexed, debriefed or numbered. My life is my own.”

some all new, never before seen magic, along with a few new twists on some old favorites. Super’s imaginary friend Desmond is again summoned and this time causes a table to float out over the audiences’ heads and around the audience. Audiences should be careful what they text as Super impossibly predicts information on their cellphones. Except for one bewildered spectator, Super turns the entire audience into magicians by letting them in on the secret of having the power to read minds. Called “truly unbelievable” by Ellen DeGeneres, Super has been seen on her show as well as America’s Got Talent, NBC’s Phenomenon and Penn & Teller’s Fool Us. Tickets are $42$47 with $25 student tickets for 18 and under and $5 lap tickets for children 12 months and

Six manages to get in his efforts to escape, it’s never far enough.

Watched by surveillance cameras and other devices, Number Six’s attempts to escape are continuously thwarted by ominous white balloon-like spheres known as “rovers.”

Still, he refuses to give up.

“Unlike me,” he says to his fellow prisoners, “many of you have accepted the situation of your imprisonment and will die here like rotten cabbages.”

Number Six’s escapes become a surreal exercise in futility, each episode an unfunny, unsettling Groundhog’s Day that builds to the same frustrating denouement: there is no escape.

The series is a chilling lesson about how difficult it is to gain one’s freedom in a society in which prison walls are disguised within the seemingly benevolent trappings of technological and scientific progress, national security and the need to guard against terrorists, pandemics, civil unrest, etc.

The Prisoner’s Village is also an apt allegory for the American Police State, which is rapidly transitioning into a full-fledged Surveillance State: it gives the illusion of freedom while func-

younger. Gelb Productions, LLC. Presents An Acoustic Evening with Matisyahu on Tuesday, March 21st, 2023 and Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. Described by the Miami New Times as “tremendous, zen-like and enlightening,” Matisyahu performs a stripped back acoustic show with his long-time friend, collaborator and Local Guitarist Adam Weinberg. Presented in his repertoire’s most raw form, Matisyahu allows his voice and beatboxing, paired with inventive guitar arrangements, to expand through lyrical intensity and musical improvisation. This format naturally digs deep into the meaning of the song itself, and lays Matisyahu’s spiritual journey bare, bringing a closeness to the artist-fan relationship. Tickets are $60 with

tioning all the while like a prison: controlled, watchful, inflexible, punitive, deadly and inescapable.

The American Surveillance State, much like The Prisoner’s Village, is a metaphorical panopticon, a circular prison in which the inmates are monitored by a single watchman situated in a central tower. Because the inmates cannot see the watchman, they are unable to tell whether or not they are being watched at any given time and must proceed under the assumption that they are always being watched.

Eighteenth Century Social

Theorist Jeremy Bentham envisioned the panopticon prison to be a cheaper and more effective means of “obtaining power of mind over mind, in a quantity hitherto without example.”

Bentham’s panopticon, in which the prisoners are used as a source of cheap, menial labor, has become a model for the modern surveillance state in which the populace is constantly being watched, controlled and managed by the powers-that-be while funding its existence. Apart from the obvious dangers posed by a government that feels justified and empowered to

Videos. His many other television appearances include numerous sitcoms, NBC’s The Tonight Show, CBS’s The Late, Late, Show and NBC’s Young Comedians Special. The evening begins with a performance by Singer-Songwriter Vanessa Le Grand. Tickets are $52-$57.

Following sold-out shows, South Florida Legends Presents Bee Gees NOW back by popular demand on Saturday, March 25th, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Taking the audience on a masterful musical journey, the concert delivers the Bee Gees songbook of beautiful love ballads and dance fever hits that made the Gibb Brothers a musical sensation. This international touring tribute has been performing to standing ovations and sending audiences dancing in their seats throughout the show. Tickets are $49-$59.

Miami International Piano Festival Presents Reed Tetzloff (U.S.) on Sunday March 26th, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. The program of Sonatas features Works by Berg (Sonata Op. 1) Ives (ThreePage Sonata), Beethoven (Sonata No. 21 in C major Op. 53 “Waldstein”) and Brahms (Sonata No. 3 in F minor Op. 5). In a review of a September 2021 concert, South Florida Classical Review reported, “Tetzloff’s reading of Beethoven’s Sonata No. 28 in A Major, Op. 101 was deeply reflective and illuminating. This first Sonata of Beethoven’s late period finds its creator in his most experimental and striking mode….Played with expansive range and luminous tone…Tetzloff captured the music’s stillness and pathos. There was boisterous spirit and rhythmic buoyancy in the final Allegro. The fungal voices were fully transparent under Tetzloff’s agile fingers.” Lecturer in residence Professor Frank E. Cooper offers a pre-concert introduction. Not suggested for children under 12 years of age. Tickets are $45$55.

$120 VIP Tickets that include premium seating in the first two rows.

The 2023 Stand-Up Comedy Series Presented by the City of Aventura culminates with the family-friendly, clean and hilarious comedy of Henry Cho on Thursday, March 23rd, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. Heard daily on Sirius XM Blue Collar Radio and Pandora, Cho is a regular performer at the Grand Ole Opry and his one-hour Comedy Central Special, What’s That Clickin Noise? is currently on Netflix. Cho was co creator, co producer and co writer of The Henry Cho Show on GAC in addition to his two-year stint as host of NBC’s Friday Night

The City of Aventura presents Over The Rainbow: Becky O’Brien Celebrates the Music of Judy Garland on Friday, March 31st, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. O’Brien has met with great critical acclaim from her many performances at the London Palladium, as a finalist on Britain’s Got Talent and with a hugely successful Off Broadway run of A Garland For Judy. Broadway World reported, “The audience was awed. Each note that came from her tiny frame soared. O’Brien exuded in her words a trait she shares with her inspiration for the show, Garland… a glass half full optimism.” Tickets are $50-$55.

Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: aventura center.org By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance.

spy on its people and use its ever-expanding arsenal of weapons and technology to monitor and control them, we’re approaching a time in which we will be forced to choose between bowing down in obedience to the dictates of the government - i.e., the law, or whatever a government official deems the law to be - and maintaining our individuality, integrity and independence.

When people talk about privacy, they mistakenly assume it protects only that which is hidden behind a wall or under one’s clothing. The courts have fostered this misunderstanding with their constantly shifting delineation of what constitutes an “expectation of privacy.” And technology has further muddied the waters.

However, privacy is so much more than what you do or say behind locked doors. It is a way of living one’s life firm in the belief that you are the master of your life and barring any immediate danger to another person (which is far different from the carefully crafted threats to national security the government uses to justify its actions), it’s no one’s business what you read, what you say, where you go,

whom you spend your time with and how you spend your money.

Unfortunately, we now find ourselves in the unenviable position of being monitored, managed, corralled and controlled by technologies that answer to government and corporate rulers. This is the electronic concentration camp - the panopticon prison - the Village - in which we are now caged.

As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, it is a prison from which there will be no escape. Certainly not if the government and its corporate allies have anything to say about it.

So how do you escape? For starters, resist the urge to conform to a group mind and the tyranny of mob-think. Think for yourself. Be an individual. Stop doping yourself with government propaganda and break free of the political chokehold that has got you marching in lockstep with tyrants and dictators.

Until you come to terms with the fact that the government is the problem (no matter which party dominates), you’ll never stop being prisoners.

The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter.

The Beat Goes On Starring Lisa McClowry as Cher

The Latin Divos

Comedian Henry Cho

Bee Gees NOW

Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida presents Chipollino

Becky O’Brien

Lucky Mint Brownie Perfection

How lucky you must be to come across this recipe just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. This one is a twisted combination of mint and sweet chocolate that’s sure to have almost anyone’s taste buds screaming “yum.” This dessert might just be the pot of gold at the end of your rainbow this year.

These Mint Brownies have three delicious layers. First, a supreme brownie on bottom. Then a fluffy, green mint layer that’s full of flavor and color. Last, but definitely not least, a chocolate layer on top made with chocolate chips, butter and a little whipping cream.

All of these layers create a smooth, sweet, minty, bite-sized dessert perfect for any occasion but especially St. Patrick’s Day. The green mint color really pops off the plate, giving it some extra flare and an appetizing glow.

To start, create the soft, chocolate filled brownie. Combine brownie mix, vegetable oil, one egg, water and the chocolate syrup pouch. Bake and cool completely.

Then it’s time for some colorful, festive fun. Make the filling with powdered sugar, butter, whipping cream, softened cream cheese, a splash of peppermint extract and a few drops of green food coloring. Beat and pour over the cooled brownie pan.

The last layer is simple. In a saucepan, melt whipping cream, chocolate chips and butter until smooth. When it’s cooled to lukewarm, pour it over the filling for the final layer.

Refrigerate the Mint Brownies for two hours before serving. Cut them into bite-size pieces for small chunks that will melt in your mouth.

Find more seasonal dessert recipes at: Culinary.net

Mint Brownies

Servings: 9-12

• Nonstick cooking spray

• 1 box supreme brownie mix

• with chocolate syrup pouch

• 3 tablespoons water

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil

• 1 egg

Filling:

• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

• 1/4 cup butter, softened

• 1/4 cup whipping cream

• 5 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

• 5 drops green food color

Topping:

• 1/2 cup whipping cream

• 1 bag (12 ounces) chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup butter

Heat oven to 350 F.

Spray 8-by-8-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, mix brownie mix, water, oil and egg until combined. Pour into prepared baking pan. Bake 35 minutes. Cool completely, about 1 hour.

To make filling: In large bowl, beat powdered sugar, butter, whipping cream, cream cheese, peppermint extract and food coloring. Spread over cooled brownies. Refrigerate 1 hour, or until set.

To make topping: In saucepan, melt whipping cream, chocolate chips and butter until smooth. Cool until lukewarm, about 10 minutes. Pour over filling; spread to cover.

Refrigerate 2 hours, or until set.

Before serving, let brownies set 10 minutes at room temperature.

Tips: Cut brownies with wet knife for cleaner cuts. Store covered in refrigerator.

St. Patrick’s Day Recipes You’ll Want to Make Year-Round

(Culinary.net)

Baked Bread to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

From hearty stews to minty pies, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are all about enjoying the flavors of the holiday. Whether you’re cooking up a full meal or simply serving appetizers, this Irish Potato Bread makes for a simple, tasty snack to feed your crowd.

Find more celebratory recipes at: Culinary.net

Irish Potato Bread

• 2 medium or large russet potatoes

• 1 egg

• 1 egg white

• 1/3 cup canola oil

• 3/4 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons green onion, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour,

• plus additional for dusting and kneading

• 1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

Heat oven to 375 F. Peel potatoes. Slice one potato and boil in saucepan 15 minutes, or until tender. Remove potato from saucepan into large bowl. Mash potato then set aside. Grate second potato onto cloth. Wring potato in cloth to remove excess water. Add grated potato to mashed potato in large bowl. Add egg, egg white, oil, milk, onion, caraway seeds, 3 1/4 cups flour, baking powder and salt. Stir with wooden spoon until mixture is soft and sticky. Turn dough onto floured surface. Adding flour as needed, knead dough to form 8-inch round shape with slight dome. Place dough onto baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut large “X” on top of dough about 1/2 inch deep. Bake 55 mins until golden brown. Cool on wire rack 1 hour before serving.

A St. Patrick’s Day Sandwich

In honor of the day when everyone is Irish, welcome family and friends to a traditional St. Patrick’s Day lunch with this Reuben Sandwich recipe.

Reuben Sandwich

Servings: 2

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

• 4 slices rye and pumpernickel swirl bread

• 4 slices swiss cheese

• 6 ounces corned beef

• 2 tablespoons, plus 2 teaspoons,

• Thousand Island Dressing, divided

• 4 tablespoons sauerkraut

Heat nonstick skillet over medium heat. Spread 1 tablespoon butter on one side of two bread slices. Place buttered side

Add 3 ounces corned beef to each bread slice. Spread 2 teaspoons dressing over corned beef. Spread 2 tablespoons sauerkraut over corned beef. Spread remaining butter on one side of remaining bread slices. Place buttered side up on top of sauerkraut. Cook 4-7 minutes each side, flipping once, until golden brown and cheese is melted.

A Sweet St. Patrick’s Day

Even if you’re not Irish, a green treat like this Luck o’ the Irish Mint Pie can get you and your guests into the festive spirit. With enough seasonal flavor to go around, this recipe makes two pies, so be sure to cut every leprechaun a generous portion.

Luck o’ the Irish Mint Pie

Makes: 2 pies (9 inches each)

• 3 3/4 cups heavy whipped cream, divided

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 1/4 cups, plus 2 tablespoons,

To make filling: In bowl of stand mixer, whisk 2 1/2 cups heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Transfer to bowl. In separate stand mixer bowl, beat cream cheese on high 2 minutes. Gradually add 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar and green food coloring; mix until smooth. Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla and mint extract; mix well. Fold prepared whipped cream into cream cheese mixture. Fold 1 cup chopped mint chocolate candies into filling. To make frosting: In bowl of stand mixer, whisk remaining heavy cream and remaining powdered sugar. Add remaining vanilla extract and mix until stiff peaks form. Pour filling into crusts and smooth tops. Fill decorating bag with frosting and pipe thick band around edges of pies. Then pipe circle dollops evenly around edges of pies. Scatter 1 cup chopped mint chocolate candies in middle of pies. Place whole mint chocolate candies into each dollop of frosting around edges of pies. Refrigerate

(Culinary.net)

Top Of The March To You: The Irish Tenors & Dermot Kennedy Celebrate

Why celebrate Ireland just on one day in March? The Broward Center For The Performing Arts starts the celebrations in February with The Irish Tenors with Orchestra and continues in May with a concert by Dermot Kennedy.

In their 25th Anniversary Tour, The Irish Tenors with Orchestra delivers songs of celebration and humor, mixed with touching melodies and songs that warm the heart in Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker on Tuesday, February 28th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. The Irish Tenors’ powerful vocal line-up of Anthony Kearns, Ronan Tynan and Declan Kelly are classically trained singers, each having performed in leading concert halls across the world. They’ve proven themselves gifted interpreters of a wide range of material, with such songs as “My Heart Will Go On” (from Titanic), “Fairytale Of New York”(previously recorded by Kirsty MacColl and The Pogues) and even Jimmy Kennedy’s “South Of The Border (Down Mexico Way).” These songs live comfortably in their

Gun Violence

From Page 1A

www.yfc.net) Miami Chapter has been invested in the Miami area schools since 1948. Miami Youth for Christ works together with other like-minded partners to help young people make good choices, establish a solid foundation for life and positively impact the world around them.

Miami YFC is committed to empowering the children, youth and families in the community by providing faith-based services that enhance their emotional, spiritual, physical and educational well-being through educational and outreach programs.

When it comes to gun violence in the community, Miami YFC Executive Director Tia DiazBalart and the rest of the staff and volunteers work to create a safe space for youth struggling within a community where violence is commonplace.

“After the Parkland Shooting, our whole community was heartbroken,” said Diaz-Balart. “We at YFC began to wonder what might have happened if the troubled teens who commit these tragic acts had people in their lives who would love them and care for them the way YFC does. It really created this urgency to reach youth everywhere with the love of Christ before it’s too late.

“Unfortunately, gun violence still happens in this area. Recently, one of the students in our juvenile justice ministry had

Boy,” “Whiskey in the Jar” and “Fields Of Athenry.” Tickets are $39.50-$99.

The Broward Center and Live Nation present Dermot Kennedy in the Au-Rene Theater at The Broward Center on Tuesday, May 30th, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. With Platinum Record sales in over a dozen countries, Kennedy’s had the best selling debut album in Ireland of this millennium with his

release, Sonder, saw the lead single “Something to Someone” top over 20 million streams and chart at both Triple A and Hot AC Radio followed by the single and music video, “Kiss Me.” His poetic, compelling music has resonated with music lovers across the globe generating fans that include Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa and Shawn Mendes. Tickets are $39.50-$59.50 with $124.50

Spirit Club Level Seats and ages offering premium seating and other exclusives.

Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www. BrowardCenter.org At: www. ParkerPlayhouse.com Or at: www.Ticketmaster.com By phone at: (954) 462-0222 or in person at The Broward Center’s

AutoNation Box Office.

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304. The Parker is an affiliated venue of The Broward Center For The Performing Arts, which provides programming and management of the facility.

The 2022/2023 Performance Season at The Broward Center and The Parker is supported by The Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is a proud sponsor of the Broward Center. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture and the National Endowment of the Arts. For info, visit: BrowardCenter.org

his home shot at in a drive-by shooting. Thankfully, he and his mother are safe and YFC had the resources from the community to ensure their safety, including providing them with alternative shelter and helping expedite his legal proceedings to transfer him to a safer area.”

In the face of such turmoil, Miami YFC has many unique resources to foster a safe community for teens in the area.

Catalyst Hip-Hop, part of YFC’s City Life Ministry, provides a safe and positive venue for youth involved in the Hip-Hop culture to breakdance, create positive graphic art, DJ and emcee, while connecting to the positive mes-

sage of Jesus Christ. Catalyst Director David Arnaez has witnessed firsthand the influence a comforting, positive outreach can have in the lives of troubled youth.

“Recently, we had a 12-yearold boy join Catalyst who seemed very confident and sure of himself,” said Arnaez. “There was nothing out of the ordinary about him and he seemed to fit in well with the other kids. After almost three weeks in our community, he reached out to a girl in our group and sent her a video of what looked like someone committing suicide with a gun. The girl immediately told her father, who told her to cut off communi-

cation with the boy. When she told our team later, she also mentioned to us that the boy bragged to her in school about having a gun at home. We immediately contacted the school and law enforcement, they investigated the issue. It turns out that while there was no gun in the home, his uncle was kidnapped and held at gunpoint just a few years prior and he was in intense therapy to get over the incident.”

“These situations are incredibly serious and while the schools and families are doing everything they can, these kids enmeshed in

gun culture here need more,” said Diaz-Balart. “They need someone to confide in who they know has their best interests at heart. Having a safe, loving, nurturing, caring environment where they know that they’re heard and can trust the leaders with important and sensitive information is vital for the safety of the community — and can even save lives.” YFC Chapters impact thousands of communities across the nation, seeking out and serving youth from all walks of life. Young people are silently struggling through a wide variety of challenging issues and through the YFC Ministry, God empowers them and they see the living power of a loving God. YFC trains its leaders in a proven, relational ministry model called 3Story®, which encourages staff and volunteers to be good, while also sharing the stories of the Good News of Jesus. It involves building relationships through the ups and downs of everyday life to lead people to Christ. YFC has been a pillar of missional ministry since 1944, when Dr. Billy Graham served as YFC’s first full-time staff member. Since then, Youth For Christ has continued to be both a rural and urban ministry on mission and it is always about the message of Jesus. Youth For Christ operates in over 100 nations and has over 130 Chapters that impact communities across America.

Learn more about YFC at its website: www.yfc.net Or on their Facebook and Instagram Pages: Twitter feed @yfcusa or on Vimeo.

The Juvenile Justice Ministry is one of the cornerstone programs at Miami YFC and were recently featured on WSVN 7 News

The Irish Tenors February 28th, 2023 at 8:00 p.m.

Reasons to Consider Adopting a Pet

More than 23 million American households added a four-legged family member over the last three years, according to data from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Through these trying times, pets have been a key source of comfort and joy – even improving pet parents’ overall wellbeing. It’s no wonder that – according to Mars Petcare’s “Pets for Better Wellbeing” report – more than one-third of non-pet owners are considering adopting a pet in the next 3-5 years, and 61% of them said they’ll turn to shelters or rescues. It’s a major decision for families, but also for pets, as there are still hundreds of thousands of cats and dogs waiting in shelters to find their forever homes.

If you’re still deciding whether to add a four-legged family member, consider these four benefits:

Traffickers

From Page 1A

has recovered bricks of Fentanyl with stamps from border cartels, alongside pill presses and sophisticated distribution plans. Our first responders gear up each day to save lives from Fentanyl overdoses occurring almost daily, putting their own lives at risk,” said Representative Cammack. “Those responsible for trafficking drugs and people into our country at our borders and in our waters should not receive federal assistance after violating our laws—not only is it wrong, but it rewards those who have perpetuated this deadly crisis. I’m pleased to join Senator Blackburn on this effort and look forward to growing this legisla-

Improve Your Wellbeing

Few things compare to the joy of coming home to a loyal companion. Whether it’s a dog greeting you at the door or a cat purring contently in your lap, your pet is there to offer unconditional love. In fact, the survey revealed 92% of pet owners feel their relationship with their pets have improved both their mental and physical wellbeing over the last three years.

Serve as Your Social Sidekick

More pet owners are including their pets in their everyday routines, whether at work or during their leisure time. In fact, 85% of pet owners working from home all or part of the time said it’s important to spend at least part of their workday at home with their pets. People are also looking to hit the road with their pets by their side as 52% said they’re

tion’s support with my colleagues.”

“For two years, President Biden’s open border policies have emboldened the cartels and caused human trafficking to grow to a $13 billion industry, with criminal cartels earning up to $14 million each day. Last year alone, law enforcement seized over 14,000 pounds of Fentanyl at the border, enough to kill over 3.3 billion people. We cannot continue to incentivize this blatant criminal activity. This legislation ensures that hardworking American taxpayers – already crushed by inflation – are not forced to fund the lifestyles of offenders who are making our country more dangerous,” said Senator Blackburn.

“As a border Sheriff, I have witnessed the senseless trage-

likely to bring their pets while traveling.

Provide Companionship for the Whole Family

A dog is more than just “man’s best friend.” The research indicated more than 9 in 10 pet owners agree their pets complete their families or households and they are a key part of how the family spends quality time together. When it comes to children, adults said they feel pets make a positive impact by providing companionship (75%) and teaching children about responsibility (69%).

Support Your Local Shelter

If you’re ready to add a pet to your family, consider adopting from the Humane Society of Broward County. Eighty-four percent of pet parents who adopted from shelters felt a boost in men-

dies on our southern border at the evil control of ruthless and violent criminal transnational organizations, i.e. cartels. These cartels exploit their criminal enterprise based on fear, violence and greed. I support and commend [the] efforts to pass legislation for those directly responsible in these types of criminal acts that violate Public Safety - National Security and Humanitarian offenses,” said Sheriff Mark Dannels, Cochise County, Arizona and NSA Border Security Chair. Even after offenders are charged with federal drug and human trafficking offenses, many of them continue to live in government housing and receive other government benefits while they persist in exploiting and trafficking women and children or

tal wellbeing from doing so.

Adding a pet to your home can also support shelters in your community that are struggling to care for all the cats and dogs in need of forever homes.

Pet Spotlight

Twelve-week-old Kaluha (ID 664985) is looking for a family to love. Can you make her wish come true? This cutie has a lot of growing to do, so be sure you’re ready to devote the time needed to raise a puppy. While we are not sure what she is mixed with, we do know she is adorable,

bubbly and would love lots of toys to play with. She is just one of many cute dogs hoping to be adopted.

Tony (ID A664918) is three years old and was abandoned by his owner when they moved away and left him behind. He loves to be pet, but like all felines, will need some time to adjust to a new home. We believe he would be ok in a home with another wellmannered feline but are not sure how he is with dogs. Thanks to a cat lover his adoption fee has been underwritten.

To meet Kaluha, Tony or any other pet, complete the pre-adoption application at: www.humanebroward.com and then stop by the Humane Society of Broward County. The adoption kennels open daily at 11:00 a.m. and if you have questions call: 954-989-3977 ext. 6. The shelter is located at 2070 Griffin Road, a block west of I95 in Fort Lauderdale. Call: 954-989-3977 ext. 6 with any questions. If you can’t adopt but want to help the VCA Walk for the Animals is March 4. Learn more on the website: https://humanebroward.com

smuggling drugs across the border.

The Stop Taxpayer Funding Of Traffickers Act:

• Prohibits anyone charged with drug or human trafficking at our international borders or in our territorial waters from receiving federal government benefits.

• Defines “drug trafficking offense” as any federal offense that includes as an element the distribution of a controlled substance.

• Defines “human trafficking offense” as a range of offenses, including smuggling, transporting and harboring individuals.

• Defines “federal benefit” to include the issuance of any grant, contract,

loan, professional license or commercial license provided by an agency of the United States or by appropriated funds of the United States, as well as any Retirement, Welfare, Social Security, Health, Disability, Veterans, or Public Housing Benefit. • If the charges are dismissed or the individual is acquitted, provides for back payment of benefits to any individual deprived of benefits under this section.

View the Senate version of the legislation at: https://www.black burn.senate.gov/services/files/ DB997415-471D-4D5F-BD2B7C3C8EC73778

If you wish to discuss this legislation with Congresswoman Kat Cammack you can reach her office at: (202) 225-5744.

Pets have been a key source of comfort and joy – even improving pet parents’ overall wellbeing

Kaluha ID 664985

Tony ID A664918

Judaism: The Soundtrack What Can Speak But Has No Words

By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil

Give up?

The answer is music.

Music can speak in ways that words alone do not.

Just think of the first concert you ever went to. Or that angsty band you discovered in tenth grade that blew your mind and changed your life . . . or at least it gave you a soundtrack that, when you hear it today, brings you back to those exact experiences.

This is true even of music with lyrics: a song will take you to places an essay seldom could.

This winter South Florida will be treated to JUDAISM: THE SOUNDTRACK, a musical experience exploring the “nigun,” or Chasidic melody, beyond its soulful sound.

As Rabbi Shneur Zalman, founder of Chabad Chasidic philosophy, taught: “Music is the pen of the soul.”

Participants will listen to the story of their soul in its own words, to the feelings—of love or longing, of devotion or despair—that express the complicated relationship between a spiritual soul and a material world.

The ninety minutes of pure delight, featuring: Rousing music Inspiring, visual accompaniment, Meditative commentary, High-caliber production and a Pre-event L’Chaim & Wine Tasting.

What kind of learner are you? Visual? Auditory? Or do you prefer to read and write?

Did you know that one of the most profound methods of learning is to experience?

Participants at JUDAISM: THE

SOUNDTRACK will discover fascinating and fundamental Jewish concepts by embarking on a journey through the world of Jewish song. It will not be a typical informational class. It is experiential, and that is what will make it so unique and unforgettable, transforming your life for the better.

Through rousing melodies, captivating videos and visuals, and practical Jewish concepts, this event will be sure to inspire you and those you care about, creating lasting memories with them.

This will be a wonderful opportunity to connect to friends and family through an enjoyable and meaningful evening of song, storytelling, and meditation. Although no musical talent required, it’s suggested to come with an open mind, an open heart, and ready to have a great time.

Chasidic music is the beat behind the wisdom and inspiration of Chasidic thought. Each piece that we will explore together is packed with nuance, depth, and history that will inform your mind and speak to your heart.

It will be an evening of immersive musical experience, featuring Jewish Chasidic melodies, fascinating narratives, and motivational messages brought to Miami by the Michale Ann Russle Jewish Community Center, Chabad Chayil and the acclaimed Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI).

Judaism: The Soundtrack will be presented at the Alan & Diane Lieberman Theater in the MAR-JCC in North Miami Beach on Monday, Feb 27, 7:30pm with an option to say l’chaim before the program on some spectacular wines!

Participants will discover the enthralling world of Chasidic melody and the deep spiritual meaning behind its tunes. Inspiring visuals, captivating stories, and rousing song will work in harmony with Chasidic wisdom to create a spectacular production that will touch the heartstrings and elevate the spirit.

These Chasidic melodies are like no other. They tell a soul-stirring story about life’s purpose and what truly matters in this world. There is so much that can be learned from these moving tunes and I look forward to sharing these transformative teachings with residents of South Florida. Like all JLI programs, this event is designed to appeal to people at all levels of knowledge, including those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. All JLI programs are open to the public, and attendees need not be affiliated with a particular synagogue, temple, or other house of worship. More information and reservations are at: ChabadChayil.org/Soundtrack

About the author: Rabbi Kievman together with his wife are the ambassadors of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. They are the founders of Gan Chabad Preschool, your local

CTeen & CKids chapters, CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools and direct Chabad Chayil. He’s the rabbi at The Family Shul and can be reached at: (305) 770-1919 or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org

Your jawbones needs support of tooth roots to remain healthy, stimulated and strong. Without it, you can have changes in bone height and widthmaking original dentures fit poorly.

Continuing to wear poor fitting dentures worsens the fit and results in permeant jawbone deterioration.

Implant-Retained Overdentures can slow this bone loss, eliminate the need for adhesives and keep your teeth