The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) announces the return of Miami Spa Months for its 19th year, inviting locals and visitors to prioritize themselves and experience the restorative power of self-care. From July 1st, 2026 through August 31st, 2026 more than 30 participating spas across Greater Miami and Miami Beach will offer exclusive wellness treatments and beauty services for $109, $159 and $199 (a savings of up to 40%). This year also introduces Signature Experiences, an elevated collection of treatments available at select spas.
“Miami Spa Months is a reminder that taking time to recharge is not just an occasional indulgence; it is an important part of overall well-being,” said David Whitaker, President & CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Now in its 19th year, the program continues to make some of Greater Miami and Miami Beach’s most exceptional spas more accessible, encouraging residents and visitors alike to invest in their health and prioritize self-care.”
Spa Months, Page 6A
14th Annual South Beach Seafood Festival Returns
Miami’s Four-Day Culinary Celebration Honors Trailblazing Chefs, Rising Talent And More Than 40 Top Restaurants
“What makes this festival special is the community it represents,” said Valerie Roy, Director of Marketing and Client Strategy at CI Management.
Recognized as one of the nation’s premier seafood celebrations, the South Beach Seafood Festival returns for its 14th year Wednesday, October 21st, 2026 through Saturday, October 24th, 2026 bringing together local chefs, restaurants,
MODS celebrates the opening of the Everglades Theater, a new immersive experience in Build a Better World: The Future Begins with You.
bartenders and culinary talent who have helped shape South Florida into one of the country’s most dynamic dining destinations. Brought to you by Tequila Herradura and Jack Daniel’s and presented by GOYA Foods, the annual celebration on the sands of Miami Beach marks the official kickoff to Florida’s storied stone crab season and the start of Miami’s hospitality season. Hosted in partnership with Breakthru Beverage Florida, the
festival’s exclusive wine and spirits provider, the 2026 festival will spotlight both the culinary pioneers who helped define Miami’s dining culture and the next generation of rising talent through a series of collaborative dinners, chef and bartender competitions, and all-inclusive beachfront tasting experiences. Tickets are now on sale at: https://sobeseafoodfest.com.
This summer, the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) invites families to discover hands-on experiences, immersive films, family traditions and unforgettable adventures all season long. Leading the summer lineup is the opening phase of Build a Better World: The Future Begins with You, featuring new experiences that connect science, nature, resilience and discovery through the Everglades Theater and Atlantic and IndoPacific Coral Reef Habitats. Designed to inspire curiosity and action, Build a Better World: The Future Begins with You invites guests to explore how science, technology and positive character strengths can help shape a more resilient future for South Florida and beyond. Through immersive environments and interactive experiences, guests can discover the importance of protecting ecosystems, caring for the natural world and working together to solve realworld challenges.
“This summer brings together some of the most exciting experiences we have offered in years,
Breaking Out The Christmas In July Cheer
It’s halfway to the holidays and South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is breaking out the Christmas in July cheer! Tickets will go on sale Thursday, July 16th, 2026 for cherished performances of Handel’s glorious Messiah (Part 1, the Christmas portion) culminating in the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus, and beloved Holiday Pops favorites on Saturday, December 5th, 2026 at 7:30 p.m., at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale and on Sunday, December 6th, 2026 at 4:00 p.m., at Barry University in Miami Shores. SFSO will be joined by vocal soloists Mary Feminear (soprano), Alissa Anderson (mezzo-soprano), Christopher W. Waite (tenor), Neil Nelson (bass-baritone) and the South Florida Symphony Chorus.
“Experiencing Handel’s
Leveled Up Luxury with New Bakey - Love, Always: Love In Every Bite, 4A
unite the South Florida community together in powerful song and unbreakable spirit by sharing this beloved, timeless holiday classic with our supporters and
the next generation of aspiring musicians and singers.
This festive family concert opens with a sparkling
of Holiday Pops. Featuring inspiring favorites and holiday classics including Josh Groban’s “You Raise Me Up,” family fun from Disney’s Frozen, a joyful Christmas sing-along, and more, this merry musical celebration captures the warmth, wonder, and cheer of the season.
Per tradition, SFSO will close the joyous evening with Part I of Handel’s Messiah, culminating with the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus as sung by the South Florida Symphony Chorus, made-up of seasoned chorale singers and community talent, directed by Dr. Giselle Elgarresta Rios. Rios and SFSO Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso collaborated to create the South Florida Symphony Chorus in 2019, which made its
Christmas In July, Page 4A
Messiah during the holidays is iconic – it’s a must-do,” said Jacqueline Lorber, President and CEO of South Florida Symphony Orchestra. “We are thrilled to
This festive family concert opens with a sparkling selection of Holiday Pops.
The festival kicks off Wednesday, October 21st, 2026 with Made in Miami, presented by GOYA Foods, an exclusive opening-night dinner celebrating the chefs whose creativity and vision helped shape South Florida’s dining scene. Hosted at Phuc Yea by Chef Cesar Zapata and Chef Jose Mendin alongside GOYA’s Chef Fernando Desa, the intimate evening will bring together six of the region’s most influential culinary leaders for a one-nightonly collaborative dinner honoring friend ship, flavor and fearless innovation. More than just a dinner, the evening will con tinue long after the final course with sur prise entertainment as the chefs step out of the kitchen to celebrate the start of another hospitality season together.
The celebration continues Thursday, October 22nd, 2026 with An Evening in Miami Beach, a second evening of exclu sive collaborative dinners at several of the area’s most celebrated restaurants, including Rao’s Miami Beach. Each inti mate, multi-course experience will pair acclaimed chefs with premium wines and handcrafted cocktails, giving guests another opportunity to experience South Florida’s exceptional hospitality. Additional details on participating chefs and menus will be announced soon.
From collaboration to competition, the festival turns up the heat on Friday, October 23rd, 2026 with the return of the fan-favorite Tequila Herradura VIP Chef Showdown presented by GOYA Foods. Featuring 20 chefs competing across 10 head-to-head seafood battles, this year’s showdown promises to be the most competitive in the event’s history. Representing a diverse range of seafood styles and culinary techniques, chefs will compete in the following categories: Taco, Crab, Sushi, Surf N’ Turf, Salmon, Shrimp, Ceviche, Seafood Pasta, Tuna and the always unpredictable Mystery Battle. Guests will sample dishes at each restaurant’s Battle Pavilion and cast their votes for the best of each duo. The action moves to the Jack Daniel’s Live Stage, presented by GOYA Foods, where competing chefs battle it out in front of a live audience with culinary industry leaders and media serving as the final judges to crown the winner of each battle.
and interactive activations from leading national brands keep the energy high, and the LIVE stage buzzes with the energy of culinary demos from the Milam’s Culinary Kitchen and the highly anticipated Home Chef Competition. Participating vendors and restaurants will be announced soon. General admission tickets are $160, open to all ages, with children 10 and under admitted free.
Returning alongside the chef battles are two fan-favorite bartender showdowns that spotlight South Florida’s top cocktail talent. In the Pacifico Beer Bartender Showdown, mixologists create original cocktails featuring Pacifico Beer while representing competing Chef Showdown restaurants, with the winner taking home $1,000 courtesy of Pacifico. The Tequila Herradura Bartender Showdown challenges bartenders to craft innovative Herradura-inspired cocktails before advancing finalists face a live mystery ingredient challenge for a chance to win $500 courtesy of Tequila Herradura. A live DJ set keeps the energy high throughout the evening as guests cheer on their favorite chefs and bartenders, enjoy unlimited seafood bites and cocktails, and explore immersive activations, including the Hendrick’s Gin Garden Party.
The festival culminates on Saturday, October 24th, 2026 with its signature main event, the Seafood Slam, brought to you by Jack Daniel’s and GOYA Foods and presented by Tequila Herradura. Hosted by the City of Miami Beach, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Lummus Park transforms into an all-inclusive beachfront party featuring unlimited food and beverage tastings from more than 40 of South Florida’s leading restaurants. Guests can explore multiple seafood zones, sample ocean-fresh creations and vote on their picks for Best of the Fest, with top new and returning restaurants competing for the ultimate crowd-voted title. Throughout the afternoon, cocktail and wine pavilions
“What makes this festival special is the community it represents,” said Valerie Roy, Director of Marketing and Client Strategy at CI Management. “From the chefs who have spent years building the foundation of South Florida’s culinary scene to the rising talents that are just starting to make their mark, the South Beach Seafood Festival is where you can find them together in one place. As we head into our 14th year, we’re more excited than ever about the caliber of chefs and restaurants this city continues to bring forward, and we’re proud to be the stage that showcases them all.”
Previously named one of the “Top 5 Specialty Festivals in the Country” by USA Today, among the “Top 5 Things to Do This Fall” by Forbes, and “Best Seafood Festival in the U.S.” by the Travel Channel, the South Beach Seafood Festival remains a bucket-list event for seafood lovers across the country. In addition to celebrating the region’s culinary talent, the festival annually supports CI Foundation’s EAT SMART program, a 501(c)(3) NonProfit that provides healthy meals and nutritional guidance to the local community and Florida’s youth through programs in Miami-Dade County public schools.
14th Annual South Beach Seafood Festival Event Schedule:
Wednesday, October. 21st, 2026: MADE IN MIAMI presented by GOYA Foods
An exclusive collaborative dinner celebrating the chefs who helped define South Florida’s modern dining scene. Hosted at Phuc Yea by Chef Cesar Zapata and Chef Jose Mendin with GOYA’s Fernando Desa, the evening brings together several of the region’s most influential culinary leaders for a one-night-only multi-course experience. Guests can also expect a few surprises after dinner as the celebration
The festival continues with an evening of special programming, including collaborative dinners at Rao’s and additional participating restaurants, leading into the weekend’s signature events. Additional details and ticket information will be announced in the coming months.
Tickets: On sale soon
Time: Various times | Location: Multiple locations
Friday, October 23rd, 2026: Tequila Herradura’s VIP Chef Showdown presented by GOYA Foods
South Florida’s most electric culinary night returns bigger and more competitive than ever. Twenty of the region’s top chefs battle head-to-head across ten showdowns while guests sample, sip, and vote to decide the winner.
Tickets: $175* All Inclusive Experience
Time: 7:00 p.m. | Location: Lummus Park, 1130 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Saturday, October 24th, 2026: Seafood Slam presented by Tequila Herradura
At the festival’s main event, more than 40 of South Florida’s top restaurants take over the sands of Miami Beach for an allinclusive afternoon of unlimited food and drink tastings, live music, culinary demos, and the crowd-voted Best of the Fest competition presented by the official bank of the festival, First Horizon Bank. Ticketed guests roam seafood zones tasting a variety of coastal creations from beloved vendors and acclaimed restaurants, as well as visit cocktail and wine pavilions. The list of participants will be announced soon.
General Admission: $160* All Inclusive Experience (children 10 and under are free) Time: 1:00 p.m. | Location: Lummus Park, 1400 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
In addition to individual event tickets, a multi-day festival package with host hotel,
Loews Miami Beach, is also available, including a two-day VIP weekend pass for two for Friday and Saturday for $1,150*.
The festival is hosted in partnership with Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority and brought to you by entitlement sponsor Tequila Herradura; title sponsors Jack Daniel’s, Breakthru Beverage Florida, and GOYA Foods, which also serves as a presenting sponsor and Culinary host. The event is hosted with assistance by the City of Miami Beach and host hotel, Loews Miami Beach. Additional hosting sponsors include Cerveza Pacifico Clara, MiamiDade County, Halperns’, Cadillac, Hendrick’s Gin, Milam’s Markets, High Noon, Tartufoistria and Fresh from Florida. For a list of corporate and media sponsors, please visit: https://sobeseafood fest.com. Mark your calendars and secure your tickets now for the most anticipated culinary event of the year. For more information and to purchase tickets to the 14th Annual South Beach Seafood Festival, please visit: https://sobeseafoodfest.com. Follow along on Instagram at: @sobeseafoodfest. And on Facebook at: @SOBESeafoodFest.
Recognized as one of the nation’s premier seafood celebrations, the South Beach Seafood Festival returns for its 14th year Wednesday, October 21st, 2026 through Saturday, October 24th, 2026, bringing together local chefs, restaurants, bartenders and culinary talent who have helped shape South Florida into one of the country’s most dynamic dining destinations. Brought to you by Tequila Herradura and Jack Daniel’s and presented by GOYA Foods, the annual celebration on the sands of Miami Beach marks the official kickoff to Florida’s storied stone crab season and the start of Miami’s hospitality season. Hosted in partnership with Breakthru Beverage Florida, the festival’s exclusive wine and spirits provider, the 2026 festival will spotlight both the culinary pioneers who helped define Miami’s dining culture and the next generation of rising talent through a series of collaborative dinners, chef and
Seafood Festival, Page 3A
The festival kicks off Wednesday, Oct. 21. (Photo By The Louis Collection)
bartender competitions, and all-inclusive beachfront tasting experiences. Tickets are now on sale at: https:// sobeseafoodfest.com.
The festival kicks off Wednesday, October 21st, 2026 with Made in Miami, presented by GOYA Foods, an exclusive opening-night dinner celebrating the chefs whose creativity and vision helped shape South Florida’s dining scene. Hosted at Phuc Yea by Chef Cesar Zapata and Chef Jose Mendin alongside GOYA’s Chef Fernando Desa, the intimate evening will bring together six of the region’s most influential culinary leaders for a one-nightonly collaborative dinner honoring friend ship, flavor and fearless innovation. More than just a dinner, the evening will con tinue long after the final course with sur prise entertainment as the chefs step out of the kitchen to celebrate the start of another hospitality season together.
The celebration continues Thursday, October 22nd, 2026 with An Evening in Miami Beach, a second evening of exclu sive collaborative dinners at several of the area’s most celebrated restaurants, including Rao’s Miami Beach. Each inti mate, multi-course experience will pair acclaimed chefs with premium wines and handcrafted cocktails, giving guests another opportunity to experience South Florida’s exceptional hospitality. Additional details on participating chefs and menus will be announced soon.
From collaboration to competition, the festival turns up the heat on Friday, October 23rd, 2026 with the return of the fan-favorite Tequila Herradura VIP Chef Showdown presented by GOYA Foods. Featuring 20 chefs competing across 10 head-to-head seafood battles, this year’s showdown promises to be the most competitive in the event’s history. Representing a diverse range of seafood styles and culinary techniques, chefs will compete in the following categories: Taco, Crab, Sushi, Surf N’ Turf, Salmon, Shrimp, Ceviche, Seafood Pasta, Tuna and the always unpredictable Mystery Battle. Guests will sample dishes at each restaurant’s Battle Pavilion and cast their votes for the best of each duo. The action moves to the Jack Daniel’s Live Stage, presented by GOYA Foods, where competing chefs battle it out in front of a live audience with culinary industry leaders and media serving as the final judges to crown the winner of each battle. Returning alongside the chef battles are two fan-favorite bartender showdowns that spotlight South Florida’s top cocktail talent. In the Pacifico Beer Bartender Showdown, mixologists create original cocktails featuring Pacifico Beer while representing competing Chef Showdown restaurants, with the winner taking home $1,000 courtesy of Pacifico. The Tequila Herradura Bartender Showdown challenges bartenders to craft innovative Herradura-inspired cocktails before advancing finalists face a live mystery ingredient challenge for a chance to win $500 courtesy of Tequila Herradura. A live DJ set keeps the energy high throughout the evening as guests cheer on their favorite chefs and bartenders, enjoy unlimited seafood bites and cocktails, and explore immersive activations, including the Hendrick’s Gin Garden Party.
The festival culminates on Saturday, October 24th, 2026 with its signature main event, the Seafood Slam, brought to you by Jack Daniel’s and GOYA Foods and presented by Tequila Herradura. Hosted by the City of Miami Beach, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Lummus Park transforms into an all-inclusive beachfront party featuring unlimited food and beverage tastings from more than 40 of South Florida’s leading restaurants. Guests can explore multiple seafood zones, sample ocean-fresh creations and vote on their picks for Best of the Fest, with top new and returning restaurants competing for the ultimate crowd-voted title. Throughout the afternoon, cocktail and wine pavilions and interactive activations from leading national brands keep the energy high, and the LIVE stage buzzes with the energy of culinary demos from the Milam’s Culinary Kitchen and the highly anticipated Home Chef Competition. Participating vendors and restaurants will be announced soon. General admission tickets are $160, open to all ages, with children 10 and under admitted free.
“What makes this festival special is the community it represents,” said Valerie Roy, Director of Marketing and Client Strategy at CI Management. “From the chefs who have spent years building the foundation of South Florida’s culinary scene to the rising talents that are just starting to make their mark, the South Beach Seafood Festival is where you can find them together in one place. As we head into our 14th year, we’re more excited than ever about the caliber of chefs and restaurants this city continues to bring forward, and we’re proud to be the stage that showcases them all.”
Previously named one of the “Top 5 Specialty Festivals in the Country” by USA Today, among the “Top 5 Things to Do This Fall” by Forbes, and “Best Seafood Festival in the U.S.” by the Travel Channel, the South Beach Seafood Festival remains
Event Schedule:
Wednesday, October 21st, 2026: MADE IN MIAMI presented by GOYA Foods
An exclusive collaborative dinner celebrating the chefs who helped define South Florida’s modern dining scene. Hosted at Phuc Yea by Chef Cesar Zapata and Chef Jose Mendin with GOYA’s Fernando Desa, the evening brings together several of the region’s most influential culinary leaders for a one-night-only multi-course experience. Guests can also expect a few surprises after dinner as the celebration continues beyond the final course.
The festival continues with an evening of special programming, including collaborative dinners at Rao’s and additional participating restaurants, leading into the weekend’s signature events. Additional details and ticket information will be announced in the coming months.
Tickets: On sale soon
Time: Various times | Location: Multiple locations
Friday, October 23rd, 2026: Tequila
Herradura’s VIP CHEF SHOWDOWN presented by GOYA Foods
South Florida’s most electric culinary
Saturday, October 24th, 2026: Seafood Slam presented by Tequila Herradura
At the festival’s main event, more than 40 of South Florida’s top restaurants take over the sands of Miami Beach for an allinclusive afternoon of unlimited food and drink tastings, live music, culinary demos, and the crowd-voted Best of the Fest competition presented by the official bank of the festival, First Horizon Bank. Ticketed guests roam seafood zones tasting a variety of coastal creations from beloved vendors and acclaimed restaurants, as well as visit cocktail and wine pavilions. The list of participants will be announced soon.
General Admission: $160* All Inclusive Experience (children 10 and under are free)
Time: 1:00 p.m. | Location: Lummus Park, 1400 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
In addition to individual event tickets, a multi-day festival package with host hotel, Loews Miami Beach, is also available, including a two-day VIP weekend pass for two for Friday and Saturday for $1,150*. The festival is hosted in partnership with Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority and brought to you by entitlement sponsor Tequila Herradura; title sponsors Jack Daniel’s, Breakthru Beverage Florida, and GOYA Foods, which also serves as a presenting sponsor and Culinary host. The event is hosted with assistance by the City of Miami Beach and host hotel, Loews Miami Beach. Additional hosting sponsors
Dade County, Halperns’, Cadillac, Hendrick’s Gin, Milam’s Markets, High Noon, Tartufoistria and Fresh from Florida.
Mark your calendars and secure your mation and to purchase tickets to the 14th Annual South Beach Seafood Festival, please visit: https://sobeseafoodfest.com. Follow along on Instagram at: @sobeseafoodfest. And on Facebook at: @SOBESeafoodFest.
About South Beach Seafood Festival: The iconic South Beach Seafood Festival, brought to you by CI Management and in collaboration with Breakthru Beverage Florida and partners, is a seafood celebration taking place every October with over 16,000 attendees, showcasing the talents of South Florida’s leading chefs and culinary masterminds. By offering a diverse lineup of events in partnership with some of South Florida’s leading chefs, the South Beach Seafood Festival caters to the most discerning ‘sea foodies’ in the region. What’s more, the festival benefits a great cause with CI Foundation’s EAT SMART program, a program that provides healthy meals and nutritional guidance to Florida’s youth, and each year, a portion of the proceeds from the South Beach Seafood Festival benefits the NonProfit. The South Beach Seafood Festival is owned and produced by CI Management. CI Management has been producing events for over 20 years in South Florida, most notably the Jimmy Johnson’s Quest for the Ring Championship Fishing Week, Experience SOFI, and the Las Olas Wine & Food Festival, among others.
*Not including tax and processing fees.
The festival culminates on Saturday, Oct. 24, with its signature main event, the Seafood Slam.
The annual celebration on the sands of Miami Beach marks the official kickoff to Florida’s storied stone crab season.
South Beach Seafood Festival Chef Showdown.
BakeyLove, Always
Always On And There’s Love In Every Bite
After enrapturing New England hearts and appetites with five locations throughout Boston, Bakey, the bakery and cafe renowned for handcrafted baked goods and its one-of-a-kind babka (all of it built upon the philosophy of “Love, Always”) is set to open its first South Florida location in Hallandale Beach. Soon, South Floridians will come to understand Bakey fans’ rapturous mania and come to experience firsthand the utterly delicious creations of the one-andonly chef, Master Baker and cookbook author Uri Scheft. Opening to the public on Tuesday, July 14th, 2026 Bakey will serve all-day breakfast, lunch, freshly rendered baked goods, especially its famous chocolate babka (also in a multitude of flavors), sourdough breads, rolls, challah, cakes, Burekas, croissants, premium coffee, salads, sandwiches and more. Housed in the former Kosher Bagel Cove space, the first South Florida Bakey (with two more already in the works) will offer a warm, inviting space where guests can stop in for a quick coffee and pastry; grab a freshly-made salad, sandwich, snack for later or sit and linger over freshly baked pastries, delicious breakfast plates and expertly crafted coffee in a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. In keeping with the space’s history, this Bakey location will also be Kosher.
First launched in Massachusetts in 2021, Bakey comes from legendary baker and culinary craftsman Chef Uri Scheft, internationally recognized for elevating babka from a traditional Eastern European pastry into a modern culinary menu staple. Also known as the Founder of Lehamim Bakery in Tel Aviv, Scheft, who was raised in Israel and Denmark, spent decades refining his craft through training and extensive travels throughout Europe, where he immersed himself in classical baking and patisserie techniques. Scheft then returned to Israel and launched his own acclaimed concept, Lehamim Bakery (“breads” in Hebrew). He later brought his vision to New York City, where he CoFounded Breads Bakery, helping establish it as a renowned Manhattan institution. His distinctive approach earned national recognition, including appearances on Martha Stewart’s television program, and culminated in the publication of his James Beard-nominated cookbook, Breaking
Christmas In July
From Page 1A
debut at the Beethoven 250th Celebration in February of 2020.
Handel composed Messiah in just 24 days in 1742, although not for Christmas…it was originally intended for the Easter season. It wasn’t until the piece was performed in its entirety in America that audiences embraced it as a Christmas tradition. Today, orchestras the world over delight in performing one of classical music’s most well-known and uplifting masterworks.
Jonathan Kandell of Smithsonian magazine writes, “A musical rite of the holiday season, the Baroque-era oratorio still awes listeners 250 years after the composer’s death.” In 1789, Mozart posthumously paid Handel the supreme compliment of reorchestrating Messiah but even Mozart confessed himself to be humble in the face of Handel’s genius describing his orchestrations: “When he chooses, he strikes like a thunderbolt.” In 1823, Beethoven proclaimed Handel to be
Breads. Scheft now continues to shape the future of babka and baking through the Bakey concept with five – soon to be seven – locations in Boston and the first of several in South Florida in partnership with fellow bakery industry scion Amir Vadash. Vadash is a generational baker himself; his family owned and operated Vadash Bakery for more than 60 years in Israel. Everything at Bakey is made in-house with fresh ingredients. Since a central edict of the Bakey concept is that “the oven is always on,” the team is constantly baking fresh breads and pastries throughout the day. Their approach to Kosher baking focuses on healthy eating and clean, simple ingredients, including unbleached flour, natural sourdough resulting in products that are both fresh and delicious.
The curated menu will be sweet and savory, with its well-known Chocolate Babka & Almond Babka with high-end German Marzipan at the center, where guests can either purchase loaves or slices. Other menu standouts include
the ‘greatest’ composer that ever lived.
Save 20% on tickets to Handel’s Messiah when you subscribe to South Florida Symphony Orchestra’s “Unstoppable” 26/27 Season. Under the direction of award-winning Maestra Alfonso, experience an exhilarating concert series that bridges beloved masterworks and bold contemporary brilliance.
From the sweeping passion of Beethoven, the soaring romance of Tchaikovsky, and the radiant elegance of Barber and Brahms to the evocative, lauded works by living composers including Higdon, Esmail, and Chen & He, SFSO’s upcoming season is filled with unstoppable music and unforgettable moments.
Five Masterworks concerts will be held at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale and one at Broward Center for the Performing Arts from November 2026 through April 2026. Three Masterworks concerts will be held at New World Center in Miami Beach and at Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West from January through March 2027. From sold-out masterworks performances to accompanying today’s musicians such as Natalie Merchant and per-
The selection also features challah loaves in plain, sesame, poppy and festive varieties, as well as muesli rolls and sourdough bread. Bakey will also continue making fresh-baked New York bagels.
The bakery offers wholesale services, an expanded catering and special events menu, and seasonal food and drink offerings for Jewish holidays and the holiday season. Guests can also choose from catering packages for groups of all sizes or order Bakey for delivery or pickup through Uber Eats and DoorDash.
Complementing Bakey’s offerings, is an exceptional premium coffee program featuring beans sourced from Umbria, Italy. The coffee is expertly roasted off-site and freshly ground in-house, ensuring exceptional flavor and aroma in every sip of coffee.
Formerly home to Kosher Bagel Cove, the space has been transformed by
forming modern musical scores including Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas and Back to the Future, featuring the iconic films screened live with audio and musical accompaniment, South Florida’s largest symphonic orchestra is continuing its journey of excellence inspiring audiences of all ages and musical genres.
Tickets for Handel’s Messiah begin at $35. For the Sunday, December 6th, 2026 performance at The Parker, buy tickets online at: https://southfloridasymphony .org. Or: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com. By phone at: (954) 462-0222, press 1; and in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office.
For the December 7 performance at Barry University’s Shepard & Ruth K. Broad Performing Arts Center, located at 11300 Northeast 2nd Avenue, Miami Shores, Florida 33161, order online at: https://southfloridasymphony.org/handels -messiah. Or via phone at: (954) 5228445. Student tickets and group rates are also available by calling: (954) 522-8445. Or by emailing at: info@southfloridasym phony.org.
designer Alona Eliasi into a modern, lightfilled bakery accented by warm tones, minimalist decor, and lush greenery. The bakery seats 50 guests indoors and an additional 70 outdoors.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by grab-and-go offerings and display cases showcasing jewel-like pastries, freshly baked breads, and other house-made specialties. Every element has been carefully considered, from the presentation of the baked goods to the curated China plate ware. Bakey is continuing to grow in South Florida, with locations in Fort Lauderdale and Aventura currently in development. More details are forthcoming.
Bakey is located at 668 West Hallandale Beach Boulevard, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009. Bakey will be open Sunday - Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Complimentary parking is available in the shopping plaza. Follow Bakey on Instagram at: @BakeyBabka for future updates and opening announcements. Or visit: bakeybabka.com
About South Florida Symphony Orchestra
Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina Maria Alfonso, the Fort Lauderdale-based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is celebrating its 29th season. SFSO is dedicated to providing enriching cultural music experiences to residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative programming and transformative educational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communities, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of over 160,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO was recently named the first Partner in the Arts for The Parker by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored. For a performance schedule and season tickets, call: (954) 5228445. Or visit: southfloridasymphony.org.
cheese burekas, cheese sticks, goat cheese croissants, chocolate croissants, rugalach and plain croissants, along with larger items like potato burekas (24”) and spinach burekas (24”).
Chef Uri Scheft
Round Challahs
Chocolate Babka
Challah
Cheese Sticks
Dania Beach Self-Care Week
Launches August 1st – August 8th With Downtown
Treat yourself to a massage, a fresh haircut, a health checkup, a new fitness routine, or other wellness-focused products and services at a discount. During Dania Beach Self-Care Week, from Saturday, August 1st, 2026 – Saturday, August 8th, 2026, participating downtown Dania Beach businesses will offer special pricing. Designed to help the community recharge before the new school year, refresh for the remainder of summer, or simply try something new, Dania Beach Self-Care Week features exclusive offers for both new and returning patrons across a wide range of businesses, including medical practices, gyms, salons, barbershops, and restaurants and cafes with wellness menus and drinks.
“Self-Care Week is about supporting our local businesses while encouraging people to invest in their own well-being,”
said Dania Beach City Manager Candido Sosa-Cruz, Executive Director of the Dania Beach Community Redevelopment Agency. “By showcasing the depth and diversity of our wellness community, we’re reinforcing downtown Dania Beach as a vibrant destination for health, lifestyle and entertainment.” Participating businesses are offering a variety of promotions throughout the week. Flow House Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is providing a free trial week of classes for children and adults, including self-defense training, fitness and private lessons. Be Well Health is offering a two-hour massage and facial combination for $110 and providing reflexology, therapeutic massage and facial services. Atlantic Florida Dental is offering a free dental exam, X-rays and treatment plan; the long-standing practice has served the community for 45 years and is led by Dr.
Thomas Schlopler, who has performed more than 25,000 dental implants.
Additional offers include special staycation discounts at Tru by Hilton Dania Beach, along with a coupon for a future stay. MAC Hair will provide new clients with a complimentary scalp spa and brush massage with any service. Karen Nails is offering 15% off services of $60 or more.
Jade Maciel, Pwner of Asteria Beauty at Icon Hair Salon, said, “I look forward to taking part in this awesome Self-Care Week for Dania Beach. We have been a business of Dania for over nine years, and we look forward to always networking and meeting new locals to share our services with.” They are offering 20% off of all services.
In July, participating businesses will display signage identifying them as Dania Beach Self-Care Week partners, allowing
patrons time to book appointments in advance.
Dania Beach is home to more than 150 active storefronts in its downtown core along Federal Highway and Dania Beach Boulevard. According to the CRA, SelfCare Week is part of a broader strategy to promote local businesses and strengthen the Federal Highway CRA district as an active business and entertainment corridor. Additional themed business weeks highlighting restaurants and retail are planned throughout the year.
For a full list of participating businesses, special offers and booking information, visit the Dania Beach Community Redevelopment Agency website at: www.daniabeachcra.org. For more information, email: cra@daniabeachfl.gov. Or call: (954) 924-6801.
Spa Months
From Page 1A
Signature Experiences
Offered by spas across the destination, these Signature Experiences have been created specifically for the program. For treatments rooted in mindfulness, balance and relaxation, wellness seekers can explore a range of restorative rituals. At The Spa at Baia Beach Club, the Baia Sound Bath Experience ($199) is an 80minute journey featuring Tibetan singing bowl therapy, crystal placement, warm CBD-infused oils and a soothing massage designed to restore focus and release tension. Additional offerings include The RitzCarlton Spa, South Beach’s Journey of Serenity and Renewal ($350), which blends sound healing, guided meditation and a mindful tea ceremony, and The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Key Biscayne’s Summer Solstice Sound Ritual
Raspberry Radiance Facial ($159) uses antioxidant rich raspberry to support hydration and enhance a natural summer glow. At DUA Spa by K’Alma Spas, the Mango Milky Way Body Scrub ($109 or $159) gently exfoliates and nourishes skin with tropical mango, leaving it smooth and refreshed, and at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, South Beach, the Summer Citrus Facial ($199) brightens skin with citrus and kale ingredients and includes a cryo face and neck massage.
This year’s program also highlights restorative, ocean inspired wellness experiences that blend therapeutic bodywork with skin nourishing elements for a refreshing coastal escape. At Ondara Spa, the Saltwater Renewal with Relounge ($199) is an 80 minute hot stone massage that uses warm salt stones and light to medium pressure to melt away muscle tension while supporting mineral replen-
exfoliation, and cooling skin therapies that leave skin drenched.
Below is a complete list of spas participating in the 2026 Miami Spa Months:
• Acqualina Spa
• Aquanox Spa at Trump International Beach Resort
• Away
Signature Experience with Resort
bringing fresh treatments and first time experiences to the pro gram. Reveal a radiant complex ion with Elite Styles & Med Spa’s Glass Skin Ritual ($199), which combines dermaplaning, an advanced brightening booster and a hydrating Hydrojelly mask for a smooth, glass like glow. At Sana Skin Studio - Aventura, the SuperGlow Facial + Exosome Infusion Lip Ritual ($159) pairs a brightening glycolic peel with sculpting massage, gua sha, microcurrent, oxygen infusion and exosome therapy to leave skin firmer and deeply hydrated. The full list of new spas partici pating this year includes:
• Elite Styles & Med Spa
• Sana Skin Studio - Aventura
• Sisley Cosmetics USA Inc.
• Wairua Aventura
CBD, Citrus & Sea:
A Full-Range of Wellness Wonders
CBD is having a major well ness moment, showing up in treatments designed to help guests relax and recharge. Whether it’s The Spa at the Miami Beach EDITION’s CBD Sport Mani + Pedi ($109) with its tension-relieving arnica and menthol massage or Bamford Wellness Spa at 1 Hotel South Beach’s 50 minutes restorative CBD Massage ($199) featuring CBD-infused oils and targeted muscle relief, these treatments deliver the calming benefits that have made CBD a wellness staple. Fresh fruit infused treatments are adding a playful twist to luxury self care, blending nourishing botanicals with bold sensory experiences. At K’Alma Spa at Hotel Victor South Beach the Blackberry Obsidian Massage ($109 to $199) blends blackberry and hydrating coconut oil with grounding obsidian stones in 30, 50 or 80 minute sessions, while at Leaf Spa, the
ishment. At Sea Spa Miami, the Ocean Glow Escape ($159) is a 50 minute Swedish massage with long flowing strokes designed to release stress, paired with a hydrating seaweed mask that leaves skin feeling fresh and luminous.
For those seeking more traditional restorative wellness rooted in serious hydration from head to toe, Lux MedSpa Brickell offers The Reflex & Restore Ritual ($109), which uses reflexology paired with intensive hand and foot hydration to ease tension and rebalance the body. While the HydraFacial Bliss ($109) at Healing Hands Massage & Facials - Brickell delivers nextlevel moisture through deep cleansing,
led by the opening phase of Build a Better World: The Future Begins with You,” said Joseph P. Cox, President and CEO of MODS. “From the Everglades Theater and Coral Reef Habitats to The Science of Guinness World Records and the HoloTheater Experience now included with Museum admission, every visit is designed to spark curiosity, inspire discovery and create lasting memories.”
Build a Better World:
The Future Begins with You Now Open
MODS’ new Build a Better World: The Future Begins with You exhibit gallery invites guests to explore South Florida’s ecosystems and discover the science behind building a more sustainable and resilient future.
At the heart of the experience is the Everglades Theater, where guests are invited on an interactive adventure with Lilly, MODS’ AI-powered otter guide and companion through the Everglades. Come talk with Lilly, ask questions, discover fascinating facts and even enjoy one of her otter-worthy jokes before exploring immersive simulators and hands-on environmental challenges. Along the way, guests will tackle real-world scenarios such as managing water flow, reducing light pollution, planting mangroves, removing invasive species and restoring wetland connections.
The adventure continues beneath the surface with the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific Coral Reef Habitats, where colorful underwater ecosystems reveal the remarkable connections between marine life, biodiversity and conservation. Guests can discover how everyday choices can help protect our oceans and inspire a more sustainable future. For more information, visit: https://mods.org/buildabetterworld.
Traveling Exhibit Spotlight:
The Science of Guinness World Records
Now – Monday, September 7th, 2026
Step into the world of record-breaking achievement during The Science of Guinness World Records. This immersive traveling exhibit invites guests to explore the science behind extraordinary human accomplishments through interactive challenges that test speed, memory, reaction time, strength and endurance. Included with Museum admission. For more information, please visit: https:// mods.org/guinnessworldrecords.
Camp STEAMology
Now – Friday, August 7th, 2026
9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
School may be out, but Camp STEAMology is in session. Young explorers can dive into hands-on STEAM experiences designed to inspire creativity, innovation and discovery all summer long. Registration required. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/ camp.
Beat the Best Weekends
Now – Sunday, August 30th, 2026
Saturdays: 10:00 a.m.– 5:00 p.m. |
Sundays: 12:00 p.m.– 5:00 p.m.
Keep the competition going all summer long during Beat the Best Weekends at MODS. Inspired by The Science of Guinness World Records, these special weekends invite guests to take on interactive challenges and hands-on activities designed to push limits, inspire discovery and celebrate friendly competition. For more information, please visit: https:// mods.org/beatthebest.
Blue Star Museums
Now – Monday, September 7th, 2026
MODS proudly participates in Blue Star Museums, offering FREE admission for active military personnel and their families throughout the summer. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/ waystosave.
South Florida Adventure Pass
Now – Wednesday, September 30th, 2026
Make summer even bigger with the South Florida Adventure Pass. Guests can enjoy access to five participating South Florida attractions throughout the season and turn one day of exploration into an entire summer of adventure. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/ adventurepass.
HoloTheater Experience
Now included with Museum admission
Showtimes vary Step into Dinosaur Discoveries: A Holographic Adventure at MODS’ HoloTheater, where dinosaurs come to life through immersive holographic technology, panoramic visuals and spatial audio. No 3D glasses are required. Guests can enjoy one HoloTheater experience as part of Museum admission. Select HoloTheater experience and IMAX® documentary film showtimes upon arrival at the Museum’s Box Office. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/holotheater.
Bank of America Museums on Us® Saturday, August 1st, 2026Sunday, August 2nd, 2026
Bank of America cardholders receive
one free general admission ticket during the first full weekend of the month. For more information, please visit: https:// mods.org/waystosave.
Record Breaker Carnival Saturday, July 11th, 2026 and Saturday, August 1st, 2026 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Step right up and join MODS for record-breaking STEM fun during Record Breaker Carnival. Guests can play to win, test their skills through hands-on challenges and see if they can earn a spot on the leaderboard. Included with Museum admission. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/recordbreaker.
IMAX® Feature: Ocean Dreams Tuesday, July 14th, 2026
Showtimes vary Dive beneath the surface during Ocean Dreams at the AutoNation® IMAX® Theater and experience an immersive underwater journey on the giant screen. Showtimes vary. For more information, please visit:
mods.org/oceandreams.
Sensory-Friendly Sunday Morning Sunday, July 26th, 2026 • Sunday, August 23rd, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
MODS offers a sensory-friendly Museum experience designed for guests with sensory sensitivities through adjusted lighting and sound levels along with supportive resources to encourage comfortable exploration. For more information, please visit: https://mods.org/sensory.
About the Museum of Discovery and Science
Opened in 1977 as the Discovery Center, today the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) is at the forefront of science education, innovation and exploration. MODS connects people to inspiring science, providing STEM education and cultural experiences for 450,000+ visitors annually in the 150,000 Square Feet facility. MODS is a 501 (c)(3) Non-Profit Organization that has been accredited by
[1] Guests test their speed, focus and coordination through interactive challenges in The Science of Guinness World Records. [2] Guests dive beneath the surface during Ocean Dreams at the AutoNation® IMAX® Theater through an immersive giant-screen experience. [3] Campers explore, create and discover during Camp STEAMology, where summer learning comes to life through hands-on STEAM experiences. [4] Families enjoy hands-on discovery at the Museum of Discovery and Science through accessible experiences like Bank of America Museums on Us. (Photo courtesy of MODS.)
the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) for three decades. MODS has added to that distinction by being named Broward’s Hub for Resilience Education by the Board of the Community Foundation of Broward, selected by the LEGO Foundation as one of only 21 museums nationwide to join the Playful Learning Museum Network and awarded the prestigious 2023 IMLS National Medal for Museum Service. The Museum welcomes visitors from all walks of life. The Museum hours are Monday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. MODS is located downtown at 401 Southwest Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information about the Museum, please visit: https://mods.org. Or call: (954) 467MODS. Call: (954) 467-6637. Like us or follow us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/modsftl X (formerly Twitter): www.x.com/modsftl Instagram: www.instagram.com/modsftl
Invitation From The Consul General Of Israel In Miami To Go On A Mission To Israel With European And North American Mayors - Part II
This article is part II of a series on my recent visit to Israel.
After leaving the Ramat Gan emergency operation center we walked to a location that was directly hit by cluster bombs. They were one of the hardest hit by these types of bombs. The warhead actually opens in the air sending anywhere from 100 - 2000 smaller bomblets. The Germans designed them in WWII, and they are banned in over 111 countries.
The ban is due to the fact they cover areas as large as football fields and weather conditions may expand the area. Often the Bomblets do not detonate creating additional hazards to small children that may pick them up. The bomblets still have armor piercing capabilities.
The area where this bomb struck was residential. The building that took the direct hit stood across from a school, which was damaged and is now a grassy lot. The blast blew out windows around the building and could be felt within a fiveblock radius. Thankfully, it happened at 6:30 a.m., before school children arrived. Many people were injured. Another bomb struck the top floor of a building where a couple was sitting in the living room.
I know where all have been seeing reports on TV, but you cannot understand the magnitude of what one bomb can do. It is also against so many laws that Iran is using this weapon against civilians carrying on their daily lives.
The Deputy shared that rebuilding has been essential since many structures are
not to any current standard. There were many high-rise condominiums that had been built and the one hit was fairly new. The other major concern is housing those that are displaced. The town, actually, with state funding assistance housed many residents in a tower that was originally getting ready to open since it was not occupied yet. Others are out in hotels.
The city’s major goal is to have full access to bomb shelters for their residents. Currently when they are rebuilding it is mandatory to have a safe room or dedicated shelter area. Civic buildings are also built with larger shelters and even the new train station has been built as a multipurpose and outfitted for sheltering those that are unable to get shelter during the workday or simply out in the town.
They have also found it is not simply about the safety of the shelters but the operations. While in the shelter. Mental health is a huge issue for all ages. The shelters are planned with different areas that are either separate rooms or simply an area for scheduled activities for children. The ceasefire is in place, and the city continues to move forward with many planning objectives. We were all amazed by the resiliency of the community.
As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our City a better place on my Phone/Text at: (954) 632-5700. Or you can email me at: jcooper@cohb.org. Please visit me on my Facebook page at: Mayor Joy Cooper. Like! Follow! And share!
Arc Broward and Miami Dolphins alumnus and Pro Football Hall of Famer Dwight Stephenson teed off the inaugural Dwight Stephenson Arc Broward Golf Classic, presented by Gunther Motor Company, bringing together business leaders, community supporters and former NFL stars for an unforgettable day of golf and philanthropy.
The day began with a breakfast buffet before 148 golfers gathered for the tournament’s shotgun start. Following the tournament, participants and guests came together for an awards luncheon and lively silent auction, where guests celebrated the day’s accomplishments while raising critical funds. Together, the tournament and silent auction raised more than $80,000 to support Arc Broward’s mission to strengthen the community by empowering people with disabilities to grow, develop and thrive.
Stephenson was joined by a lineup of former NFL players who supported the event, including Roberto Aguayo, Robert Bailey, Marty Booker, Ki-Jana Carter, Travis Daniels, Troy Drayton, Brandon Flowers, Damian Gregory, Terry Kirby, Jordan Poyer, Mason Schreck, Lamar Thomas and Shawn Wooden.
“We are proud to partner with Dwight Stephenson and so many dedicated community leaders who believe in Arc Broward’s mission,” said Julie Price, Arc Broward President and CEO. “The overwhelming support for our inaugural golf classic reflects the trust this community has placed in that mission and translates directly into support for the people and families we serve.”
Following the tremendous success of its inaugural tournament, the Dwight Stephenson Arc Broward Golf Classic will return to Boca Lago Golf & Country
on Friday, June 18th, 2027. The tournament was generously sponsored by Gunther
&
Centennial Bank, Universal
By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper
Fernanda Pinon, Mike McVay, Pablo Arnold and Manny Zaiter
Anthony Athens and Cameron Brady
Brandon Slater, Drew Davis and CJ Chatham
CJ Chatham, Brandon Slater, David Armstrong and Drew Davis
Dwight Stephenson and Todd Lawrence
Brian C., Jenny Mackie, Julie Price, Jason Taxidor, Benji E., Denim Montgomery, David Perez, Virginia Maduro, Steven M., Jade Phan and Jennifer Stewart
Making An Impact For Pediatric Cancer Research
The Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation has received a $100,000 Impact Grant from Hyundai Hope on Wheels to support the Pediatric Cancer Program at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.
The grant was presented to Adriana Trabal Yulfo, M.D., in support of the hospital’s Pediatric Oncology Program during a Hyundai Hope on Wheels ceremony.
The event brought together patients and families from Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, representatives from the hospital foundation, Hyundai leadership, local Hyundai dealers and hospital staff to celebrate a partnership spanning more than two decades. Since its inception, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has awarded more than 20 grants totaling $1.55 Million to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation, funding Pediatric Cancer Research and advancing care for children and families affected by Cancer.
“Year after year, Hyundai Hope on Wheels continues to make a profound difference in the lives of children with Cancer and their families,” said Kelley Morris, President of the Memorial and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundations. “This generous investment strengthens our ability to deliver worldclass care while advancing research that leads to better treatments and improved outcomes. We are honored to partner with an organization that shares our unwavering commitment to giving every child facing Cancer the hope for a healthier future.”
During the ceremony, patient Isabella Depestre shared her personal journey and message of hope. She reflected on being diagnosed with Cancer at age 15 and described how the care team at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital supported her through treatment, helping her find strength during the most difficult moments and believe in her future.
“When a child is diagnosed with Cancer, life changes in an instant,” said Dr. Trabal Yulfo. “While treatment is our focus, caring for a child with Cancer involves multidisciplinary care. This gift allows us to support teams who make an extraordinary difference during one of the most challenging times in a family’s life. Here at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, we are committed to delivering exceptional care to every child who walks through our doors, and partnerships like this make this mission possible.”
Following the check presentation, patients participated in Hyundai Hope on Wheels’ signature Handprint Ceremony, leaving colorful handprints on a Hyundai vehicle that will travel across the country to raise awareness for pediatric cancer. Dr. Trabal Yulfo also invited patients to add their handprints to her Hyundai Hope on Wheels lab coat. Each handprint symbolizes the courage, resilience and determination of children battling Cancer and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for research and support.
More than 15,000 children are diagnosed with Cancer in the United States each year, underscoring the continued need for investment in Pediatric Cancer research. Through its national initiatives, Hyundai Hope on Wheels raises awareness and funds innovative research aimed at improving outcomes for children with cancer. At Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, that support helps physicians, researchers and caregivers continue the fight against childhood Cancer and provide hope to families throughout South Florida.
About Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital
Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital is one of the nation’s leading pediatric hospitals, offering a comprehensive scope of healthcare services and programs in a caring, compassionate setting designed specifically for children. The level one pediatric trauma center combines
Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital; Mike Donahoo, senior manager of corporate social responsibility, Hyundai Southern Region; Fred Whitt, regional general manager, Hyundai Southern Region; and Ashley Kozich, director of corporate philanthropy, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation
Mike Donahoo, senior
Hyundai Southern Region; Ashley Kozich, director of corporate philanthropy, Joe DiMaggio
Linda
regional
of corporate
and
Creek Hyundai; Isabella Depestre; Lindsey Appleby, general manager, Coconut Creek Genesis; and Marc Riley, chief operating officer, Rick Case Automotive Group [4] Isabella Depestre [5] Penelope Rodriguez and Adriana Trabal Yulfo, M.D., Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital [6] Penelope Rodriguez [7] Adriana Trabal Yulfo, M.D., Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital; Heather Patten; Dalton Caniano; and Lindsey Appleby, general manager, Coconut Creek Genesis [8] Omar Hajira, general sales manager, Rick Case Hyundai Plantation; Mike Donahoo, senior manager of corporate social responsibility, Hyundai Southern Region; Marc Riley, chief operating officer, Rick Case Automotive Group; Adriana Trabal Yulfo, M.D., Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital; Lisa Hines, district sales manager, Hyundai Motor America; and Ashley Kozich, director of corporate philanthropy, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation [9] Adriana Trabal Yulfo, M.D., Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Marc Riley, chief operating officer, Rick Case Automotive Group [10] Ashley Kozich, director of corporate philanthropy, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation; Omar Hajira, general sales manager, Rick Case Hyundai Plantation; and Dominic Ginarte [11] Adriana Trabal Yulfo, M.D., Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Keren Urbinamejia (Photos Courtesy of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation)
advanced technology, the expertise of some of the region’s most diverse, boardcertified specialists, and a patient and family-centered focus to heal the body, mind, and spirit. Part of Memorial Healthcare System, the pediatric hospital in Hollywood, Florida, recently doubled in size, adding four floors, including a comprehensive cardiac care floor, an intraoperative MRI,
that support the pediatric facility’s mission. To learn more, visit: jdch.com and connect with @jdchospital on Facebook, X, YouTube and Instagram. About Hyundai Hope On Wheels® Hyundai Hope on Wheels® is a 501(c)(3) NonProfit Organization that is committed to finding a cure for childhood Cancer. Launched in 1998, Hyundai Hope on Wheels provides grants to eligible institutions nationwide that are pursuing critical research aimed at improving treatments and saving lives. Hyundai Hope on Wheels is one of the largest nonprofit funders of pediatric cancer research in the country. Primary funding for Hyundai Hope on Wheels comes from Hyundai Motor America and its more than 855 U.S. dealers. In 2026, Hyundai Hope on Wheels will reach a lifetime donation total of $303 Million in support of more than 1,500 childhood Cancer research grants to over 175 hospitals and research institutions.
[1] Dawn Quaranta, vice president of Palm Beach operation, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital; Marc Riley, chief operating officer, Rick Case Automotive Group; Adriana Trabal Yulfo, M.D.,
[2]
manager
social responsibility,
Children’s Hospital Foundation;
Fred Whitt,
general manager, Hyundai Southern Region [3]
Appleby, Coconut
Ann Storck Center Expands Services for Individuals With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities In South Florida
Ann Storck Center (ASC) is proud to announce it has acquired Victory Living Programs (VLP), expanding its comprehensive network of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across South Florida. Building on more than a year of successful collaboration, the acquisition brings VLP’s respected supported liv ing, employment, community inclusion, and recreational pro grams into the ASC family, strengthening resources, enhancing opportunities, and ensuring long-term sustainability for the individuals and families both organizations proudly serve.
The acquisition follows more than 13 months of productive collaboration under a formal management agreement estab lished in May 2025, through which ASC provided leadership, guidance and operational over sight to VLP. This partnership has proven to be both produc tive and inspiring, demonstrating the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to those served. Together, the organi zations have built a strong foun dation for long-term success.
ASC CEO Patricia (Pat) Murphy will continue to serve as CEO of the combined organization.
As part of the acquisition, ASC recently acquired a new 3,473-Square-Foot facility located at 6090 Boulevard of Champions, North Lauderdale, Florida 33068. The property will serve as a second location for the Adult Day Training Program when it opens in Fall 2026, expanding the organization’s capacity to serve more adults with disabilities throughout Broward County. A waiting list is now open for interested families.
evolved into Ann Storck Center in 1981.
Today, ASC accommodates 96 residents in 10 homes and serves more than 300 clients daily through 14 programs over 11 locations with an array of critical care, learning, and ability-focused programs. The Center operates the All Heart
Living program providing individualized coaching in budgeting, meal planning, household management, transportation, and social skills, assisting individuals with intellectual, developmental, and learning disabilities in living in their own homes. Its employment services include Supported
modates over 300 individuals on eleven separate sites including a school/therapy center, adult day training program, two intermediate care facilities offering specialized residential services, as well as four group homes embedded in the community offering a more independent life-
This acquisition adds VLP’s supported living and employment programs to ASC’s service continuum and expands its capacity for adult day programming. ASC now spans the full spectrum of care and community integration, from early childhood learning and therapeutic services through adult day training, supported living, and employment support. Services across all locations will continue without interruption. Each program VLP has built will maintain its essential character while gaining access to ASC’s operational Infrastructure and institutional depth.
The acquisition reinforces ASC’s position as a leading provider of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in South Florida, built not on scale, but on the quality of its programs, the strength of its community relationships, and the lasting impact it delivers across every life it touches.
“This acquisition reflects the kind of growth that happens when mission, values and pur pose are truly aligned,” said Murphy. “Victory Living Program has built something meaningful over the past 54 years: deep community ties, a dedicated staff, and a genuine commit ment to those they serve. Together, we are expanding our programming to build a stronger, more sustainable future and ensure long-term stability for every individual and family we serve.”
“What became clear throughout this collaboration is that Ann Storck Center shares our organization’s commitment to the people we support,” said Deborah Day, Chairperson of the Board of Victory Living Program, that has now transitioned onto the ASC Board. “The VLP Board’s confidence in this unification was grounded in the trust built over the past year and a shared belief that joining Ann Storck Center provides Victory Living Programs with the resources, infrastructure, and community to continue growing and serving with the excellence our families deserve.”
ASC – a Fort Lauderdale-based private NonProfit Organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through an array of critical care, learning, and ability-focused programs –has served the South Florida community for more than 70 years. Originally established when pediatric nurse Ann Storck retired to South Florida to open her heart and home to a handful of marginalized children with developmental disabilities. Four years later, she opened the Pediatric Care Center to serve 55 children, which
Learning and Ability Center, the Hi Ability innovation therapy program, adult day training program, two intermediate care facilities offering specialized residential services, and four community-embedded group homes that support a more independent lifestyle. The Center’s expert services support complex individuals, working with their intellectual and physical strengths to promote personal growth in skills, creativity and independence.
VLP has been a valued presence in the South Florida community for 54 years.
Founded in 1974 as Victory Villas, Inc. by Gloria Vaden, a newspaper editor and community activist who sought a more independent way of life for her son, the organization earned its 501(c)(3) status in 1975 and received state recognition and funding in 1977. Over the past five decades, VLP evolved from its group-home origins into Victory Living Programs, Inc., expanding toward a more inclusive, community-integrated model of care. For more than 25 years, former Executive Director Bobbi Wigand guided the organization, helping build the foundation.
VLP’s programs include a Supported
Employment Phase I, covering job search support, interview preparation, and onthe-job training, as well as Supported Employment Phase II, which delivers longterm follow-along support beyond the 150th day of employment. VLP also offers a Community Inclusion/Adult Day Training program with instruction in cooking, gardening, crafts, computer skills, music, and volunteer engagement, along with a Social and Recreational Program that includes Special Olympics participation, cultural outings, and community events.
For more information or to join the waiting list, please email: info@annstorckcenter.org.
About Ann Storck Center: Ann Storck Center (ASC) is a 501(c)(3) NonProfit Organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through an array of critical care, learning and ability focused programs. ASC has been serving the community for more than 70 years, originally known as the Pediatric Care Center, then in 1981 becoming ASC. Today, ASC accom-
style. For more information, visit: https:// annstorckcenter.org/. Or on Social Media, visit: www.facebook.com/annstorckcenter. Or: www.instagram.com/annstorckcenter/. Or: www.twitter.com/annstorckcenter.
About Victory Living Programs: Victory Living Programs provides individualized services and opportunities to persons with disabilities so that they may experience life to its fullest and reach their highest level of independence. Victory Living Programs has created independent living environments for thousands of people with disabilities. Victory Living offers premier supported independent living programs that place clients in their own individual, apartments. In addition to the toptier supported independent living programs, Victory Living also offers an extensive array of programming to assist clients with securing and maintaining employment, learning new skills, volunteering in the community and socializing with their peers – all of which make it possible to promote independence and transform the lives of people with disabilities. For more information, visit: https://victoryliving.org/.
J. Chizmar, Bobbi Wigand, Debra Batts, Pat Murphy, Debbie Day
Ann Storck Center and Victory Living Programs Leadership
Ann-Storck Center learning school.
Ann-Storck-Center-Pat and Mia. Photos courtesy of Ann Storck Center
Ann-Storck Center Classroom.
Promise Fund
To Host Free ‘Mammography Screening Day’
In Broward County
Promise Fund reaches tens of thousands of women in Broward, Palm Beach and Martin Counties who are uninsured, under insured or have limited or no access to healthcare.
Promise Fund, a South Florida-based NonProfit dedicated to increasing survivorship from breast and cervical cancer, will host a free Mammography Screening Day on Thursday, July 23rd, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Gulfstream Learning Center at 120 Southwest 4th Avenue, Hallandale Beach, Florida 33009.
This screening event is being presented in partnership with Florida Mobile Mammography and Hispanic Unity of Florida.
“The Promise Fund is here to make screenings accessible for everyone, especially those who might otherwise go without care,” said Ertha Jean-Francois, Promise Fund’s Broward County and South Palm Beach County Patient Navigator. “Early detection can make a real difference. Treatment is often easier to manage, and people are able to focus more on their health, their families, and their everyday lives.”
While Promise Fund’s program reaches women across Palm Beach, Broward, and Martin counties, it currently operates four co-located screening programs within partner sites in Palm Beach and Broward
Appointments are required.
To register, call: (954) 268-9193.
Promise Fund reaches tens of thousands of women in Broward, Palm Beach and Martin Counties who are uninsured, under insured or have limited or no access to healthcare. The organization, founded in 2018 by Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, is dedicated to increasing survivorship from cervical cancer and breast cancer by
screenings, as well as early detection, treatment, and beyond.
To date, Promise Fund has reached more than 165,231 women in South Florida through education and advocacy, and has impacted the lives of over 29,350 women through access to screenings, diagnostics, and care and Promise Fund has helped 299 women who were diagnosed with cancer navigate getting treat-
About Promise Fund
Promise Fund, founded in 2018, is a Non-Profit Organization dedicated to increasing survivorship from breast and cervical cancer by providing guided support and access to screenings, as well as early detection, treatment, and beyond. To learn more, visit: https://thepromise fund.org. Follow on Instagram at: @thepromisefund. And on Facebook at:
The Jewish people have endured exile, persecution, expulsions and countless attempts to erase us. Yet we are still here. Jews have built lives in America and throughout the free world, yet we have never stopped turning our hearts toward Israel and its eternal capital, Jerusalem. Not just in the past 3 years. And not just since 1948. But for the past 3,298 years, ever since Israel became the official homeland of the Jewish people. And even before that, for nearly 3,800, since G-d promised that land to Abraham…
We pray facing Jerusalem. We end our weddings by breaking a glass in remembrance of the Temple. And we conclude every Passover Seder with the words “Next Year in Jerusalem.”
We never forgot. And because we never forgot, we never gave up hope. Legend has it that Napoleon, the great French leader, was once passing through a small town in Europe, when he heard weeping. Wanting to know what was going on, he followed the sound to inside a building, where he found men, women and children sitting on low chairs & benches, crying. The building was a synagogue and the room which had a magnificent candelabra chandelier at its center, had only a few candles lit. Bothered by the scene and wanting an explanation, Napoleon inquired about the reason for their sadness. They explained that they were mourning for the destruc-
became very angered that people would have the audacity to harm the Temple of such good people, and inquired further to where the damage was, as whatever parts he saw still looked intact. No, they explained. “We’re mourning for the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, the Beit Hamikdash, that was destroyed by Rome over 1,700 years ago. Once a year on Tisha B’Avthe 9th day on the Jewish month of Av, we get together to read the Book of Lamentations and mourn the Temple’s destruction while praying that we very soon merit its rebuilding.”
To this Napoleon responded, “A people that remembers the destruction of their land and temple after so many hundreds of years, will surely witness its rebuilding.”
Tisha B’Av was actually the day that both Temples were destroyed. The First Temple built by King Solomon was destroyed by the Babylonians (modern day Iraq) in 3338 (423 BCE). After completing the building of the Second Temple in 3412 (349 BCE), it too was destroyed on the 9th of Av, this time by the Romans in 3829 (69 CE). That was also the day on which the Jews were expelled from Spain in 5252 (1492 CE), the start of World War I in 5674 (1914 CE) and the Gush Katif expulsion in 5765 (2005 CE).
If you were to witness any such atrocity, how would you respond? What would you say? What would you do?
The Talmud tells us that although the
in our time, it’s as if it was destroyed in our time!
In other words, since we still don’t have the Temple rebuilt, it’s as if it is being destroyed in front of our very eyes! We are witnesses to those horrific atrocities! Help! The fire isn’t out yet!!
The good news is that we know what to do to put the fire out. By acting in kind ways to one another, by loving thy neighbor, by simply being good people, we will surely see the Third Temple built in a peaceful Jerusalem. Ah! If we would only merit to enjoy it, this year in Jerusalem!
To learn more about Tisha B’Av, see: www.ChabadChayil.org/TishaBAv
This year Tisha B’Av begins Wednesday night, July 22nd, 2026 at sundown and ends Thursday night, July 23rd, 2026 at nightfall. I encourage you to participate in services at your local Chabad or Synagogue. You can of course join me at The Family Shul, temporarily located right behind 2601 Northeast 211 Terrace, Miami, Florida 33180.
Since COVID-19, we have been making our services available each day during the week virtually. Our services are broadcasted live each weekday morning at 9:00 a.m. and evenings 10 minutes before sundown on YouTube at: www.youtube.com/ ChabadChayil. And on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ChabadChayilPage. The full schedule is available at: TheFamilyShul.com. Or: (305) 770-1919.
8:45 p.m. - Maariv followed by Aicha (Lamentations)
Thursday, July 23rd, 2026
9:00 a.m. - Slow Shacharit followed by Kinus until midday (1:26pm)
1:25 p.m. - Midday (Can sit on regular chairs..) 4:00 p.m. - Virtual Tour of the Beis Hamikdash built by Herold & King David’s
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(in memory of Mrs. Gloria Sobel z’l) *Plan A is that Moshiach come. We have the Third Beit Hamikdash. And instead of fasting we have feasting! For exact Halachik times calculated for South Florida for any day of the year, see: www.ChabadChayil.org/Zmanim. For this holiday specifically, see: www.Chabad Chayil.org/TishaBAv.
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.
Rendering of the third and final Beit Hamikdash which will soon be built on Jerusalem’s Temple Mount
Dissent Is Not Disloyalty:
The Right And Duty To Criticize
By today’s standards, the Founders would likely be labeled extremists, agitators, radicals, anti-government dissidents and threats to national security.
President Trump has no problem criticizing, condemning, insulting, demonizing and threatening those who refuse to fall in line.
He has branded political opponents “communists,” denounced critics as anti-American, lashed out at NATO allies, threatened to cut off trade with Spain, and referred to Iran’s leaders as “scum” amid the ongoing war.
In Trump’s America, the president is free to call other nations bad actors, label his opponents dangerous, and treat disagreement as betrayal.
But dare to criticize Trump, his administration, ICE, the police state, the war machine, the surveillance state, or the government’s steady assault on the Constitution, and you may find yourself treated as the threat.
This is the hypocrisy of the moment: those in power claim an unlimited right to criticize everyone else, while increasingly denying the people the right to criticize them.
Criticize the government, question the police state, object to ICE raids, oppose war, challenge corruption, reject propaganda, refuse to salute the party line, or insist that public officials obey the Constitution, and you may find yourself accused of being anti-American, extremist, subversive, ungrateful, communist, terrorist-adjacent or worse.
This is how free speech dies: not all at once, but by redefining dissent as disloyalty.
Yet the First Amendment was not written to mandate flattery and applause for those in power. It was written to safeguard the right of the people to criticize, condemn, expose, challenge and resist government abuses without fear of being investigated, surveilled, threatened, prosecuted or treated like enemies of the state.
The American Revolution itself began as an act of criticism.
The Declaration of Independence was a bill of complaints against a government that had abused its power, violated the rights of the people, used the military to intimidate civilians, obstructed justice, imposed unjust burdens, and treated resistance as rebellion.
By today’s standards, the Founders would likely be labeled extremists, agitators, radicals, anti-government dissidents and threats to national security.
What was once rebellion against tyranny is now being recast as a warning sign of extremism.
That is the police state’s playbook for discrediting dissent: start with finger-pointing and namecalling, then turn criticism into subversion, dissent into danger, and those who demand accountability into enemies of the state.
On cue, President Trump and his allies have increasingly wrapped political opposition in the language of extremism, communism, terrorism and anti-Americanism.
The government’s increasing tendency to equate dissent with danger should alarm every American, regardless of party.
We have already seen what this looks like.
Americans who criticize ICE online, write angry emails to government officials, document raids, protest enforcement actions, or speak out against official misconduct increasingly risk visits, warnings, subpoenas, surveillance or investigations by the government’s secret police.
The government does not need to jail everyone in order to silence a population. It only needs to make examples of a few.
A knock on the door. A warning from agents. A subpoena. A phone call from law enforcement. A file opened. A name entered into a database. A social media post flagged. A protest monitored. A journalist questioned. A nonprofit investigated. A student visa threatened. A donor list scrutinized. A museum audited. A professor disciplined. A mayor denounced as anti-American. A citizen taught to think twice before speaking again.
This is how a free people are trained to censor themselves.
The Government
Let us be clear: violence and true threats can and should be investigated. No one has a constitutional right to assault, threaten, stalk, bomb, kill or terrorize.
But criticism is not violence. Anger is not terrorism. Dissent is not extremism. Opposition is not treason. Petitioning the government for redress of grievances is not a crime. It is the essence of citizenship.
Yet every administration, sooner or later, discovers the convenience of labeling its critics as threats.
Richard Nixon kept enemies lists. George W. Bush gave us the Patriot Act, warrantless surveillance, watchlists and the language of “with us or against us.” Barack Obama targeted whistleblowers. Joe Biden’s administration leaned on agencies and platforms in the name of combatting misinformation and domestic extremism.
Donald Trump has taken all of that machinery and openly aimed it at political enemies, protesters, immigrants, journalists, universities, museums, law firms and anyone else who refuses to bow.
The right to criticize government cannot be treated as a partisan indulgence.
No matter which party holds power, the people must be free to criticize the government.
This is the great danger of the moment.
We are being told that patriotism requires amnesia.
That is a lie.
Real patriotism is not worship of government. Real patriotism is not loyalty to a president. Real patriotism is not blind obedience to police. Real patriotism is not a flag big enough to cover up injustice.
Real patriotism is the willingness to tell the truth about your country because you believe it can and must be better.
Those who criticize America are often the only ones still taking America seriously.
When the government claims the power to decide what history may be taught, what speech may be tolerated, what criticism may be investigated, what protest may be monitored, what viewpoint may be flagged, and what truths may be spoken, the people have a duty to push back.
We must insist that the First Amendment protects the speech government hates most. We must insist that criticizing ICE is not a crime. We must insist that criticizing the president is not treason. We must insist that criticizing police is not extremism. We must insist that criticizing America’s failures is not anti-American. We must insist that history belongs to the people, not to politicians. We must insist that no president, no agency, no party and no bureaucrat gets to decide what patriotism requires.
We must insist that the Constitution means what it says.
After all, the government works for us—not the other way around. The moment Americans forget that, the experiment in self-government is over. So criticize the government.
Criticize it loudly. Criticize it relentlessly.
Criticize it when it spies, lies, censors, raids, detains, prosecutes, propagandizes, militarizes, profiteers and abuses.
Criticize it when it rewrites history, calls truth anti-American, mistakes obedience for patriotism, and forgets that “We the People” are the masters and the government is the servant.
That is the duty of a free people.
As I make clear in Battlefield America: The War on the American People and its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, the police state does not need everyone to agree with it. It only needs enough people to fear disagreeing with it.
We do not owe the government our silence.
We owe the Constitution our vigilance.
Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an attorney and author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of constitutional law, human rights and popular culture. John Whitehead’s commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org. Information about
