GENERAL, COSMETIC
DENTISTRY, 2A
Regular eye exams, including specific glaucoma tests, are important.
Glaucoma, one of the leading causes of permanent blindness, often does its damage silentlywith no noticeable symptomsas vision is lost. Glaucoma affects an estimated 3 million Americans, but most people don’t know they have the condition until it’s revealed in an eye exam. Once vision is lost, it cannot be recovered. If left untreated, Glaucoma can cause blindness. That’s why when it comes to detecting and treating Glaucoma, the earlier, the better. What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease caused by increased pressure in the eye, which can damage the optic nerve and reduce vision, sometimes making objects look blurry or dark. Early on, most people don’t notice what’s happening, but as glaucoma progresses, you may notice some loss of peripheral vision. By this point, the disease has progressed significantly toward blindness, and treatment options may be limited.
Sufrat
Mediterranean Grill
Bringing
Big Flavors And A Sense Of Family
The Altillawi brothers Samer Altillawi, Tamer Altillawi, Ahmad (Don) Altillawi.
“Fall For The Arts” A Global Celebration Of Culture, Creativity And Community
The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) proudly announces the debut of Fall for the Arts, a three-month cultural celebration that reinforces Greater Miami and Miami Beach’s role as one of the world’s leading destinations for art and culture. Running from Wednesday, October 1st, 2025 through Sunday, December 7th, 2025 the program presents a season-long invitation for visitors and residents to immerse themselves in the very best of human creativity—from visual masterpieces and live performances to boundary-pushing experiential art and community-driven activations.
“Every fall, the world’s attention turns to Greater Miami and Miami Beach for artistic inspiration,” said David Whitaker, President & CEO of the GMCVB. “Our stages, museums, neighborhoods and even our shorelines become platforms for some of the boldest artistic expressions anywhere. Fall for the Arts celebrates this moment in time, inviting the world to discover why our region continues to evolve as a global cultural capital.”
Miami’s Role as a Global Cultural Leader
Since the arrival of Art Basel Miami Beach in 2002, Greater
Miami and Miami Beach have emerged as a vibrant epicenter of contemporary art and performance. With 23 museums, hundreds of galleries, and an ever-evolving public art landscape, the destination has become synonymous with innovation, diversity, and creative freedom. Fall for the Arts builds on this legacy, creating a cohesive season that leads into the globally recognized Miami Art Week from Monday, December 1st, 2025 - Sunday, December 7th, 2025. The program not only celebrates world-renowned instiCommunity, Page 2A
Sufrat Mediterranean Grill –an expanding, family-owned Mediterranean concept – has quietly become a South Florida institution as much for its flavorful menu, authentic recipes and spirited cocktail program as its lively atmosphere. Founded by a trio of brothers who hail from Jordan, the concept for Sufrat is rooted in a simple but powerful idea: food tastes best when it’s shared with loved ones around a table. Since opening the original location in Pembroke Pines five years ago, Sufrat has grown from a family passion project into a trio of successful restaurants including locations in Miami Beach (2022) and Doral (2023). And 2025 is turning into a banner year for the brand, with the Pines location celebrating its five-yearanniversary, Doral its one-year anniversary and exciting expansion news afoot. For the Altillawi brothers, Sufrat’s story isn’t just about
Sufrat, Page 4A
Scariest Halloween Spots To Visit Around The World
Halloween has become more than a holiday; it’s a global phenomenon. Americans spent over $12 Billion in 2024, with 77% decorating and 69% buying costumes, while a surge in haunted tourism is sweeping the world. Ghost tours, eerie overnights, and “haunted experience” packages now generate up to 20% of local tourism revenue in some destinations. Even historic landmarks see record-breaking crowds: Salem in Massachusetts draws over one million visitors during its Haunted Happenings Season.
Salem, Massachusetts, USATripAdvisor Score: 4.9/5
Every October, Salem transforms into a living Halloween movie set. The city’s haunting legacy from the 1692 Witch Trials lures more than 1 million visitors each October, with 87,500 people crowding its streets on
breaking 37% increase from the previous year (2023).
For anyone drawn to the paranormal or fascinated by dark history, Salem is the perfect spot.
Corvin Castle, RomaniaTripAdvisor Score: 4.9/5
Towering above the Transylvanian landscape, Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle, exudes Gothic majesty and chilling folklore. One of Europe’s largest and bestpreserved medieval castles, it welcomes around 275,000 visitors annually, with a noticeable spike every October as Dracula fans and paranormal seekers descend on its dungeons. Legends speak of Vlad the Impaler’s imprisonment here, and of Ana, the noblewoman accused of infidelity and executed within its stone walls. Romanian ghost hunters have documented temperature drops
Halloween Spots, Page 3A
the Salem Witch Trials Memorial buzz with eerie energy, while flickering lanterns and fog rolling off the harbour create
Adrienne Arsht Center - Downtown Miami
Salem, Massachusetts
(Family Features)
tutions and international collaborations but also shines a spotlight on the diverse local voices that make Miami unique. From symphony halls and art deco theaters to outdoor promenades and underwater sculpture parks, Fall for the Arts positions Miami as the ultimate destination for boundary-defying cultural experiences.
Highlights of Fall for the Arts 2025
Highlights of Fall for the Arts 2025 This season will feature an e xtraordinary roster of events, activations, and performances, including:
This season will feature an extraordinary roster of events, activations, and performances, including:
• Art of Black Miami - from Sunday, November 30th, 2025 - Sunday, December 7th, 2025: Highlighting artists and creatives from the African diaspora.
• Art Deco Alive! Wednesday, October 8th, 2025Sunday, October 12th, 2025: Celebrating 100 years of Miami Beach’s Art Deco design with a dual-city exhibition in Miami Beach and Mumbai.
• III Points Music Festival from Friday, October 17th, 2025 - Saturday, October 18th, 2025: A fusion of underground music, art and technology at Mana Wynwood.
• Miami Film Festival GEMS from Wednesday, October 29th, 2025 - Wednesday, November 5th, 2025: Showcasing critically acclaimed films as a prelude to the Miami Film Festival.
• The ReefLine Launch during October: A groundbreaking seven-mile underwater public sculpture park blending art, science and conservation.
• Doral International Art Fair from Thursday, November 6th, 2025 - Sunday, November 9th, 2025: Four days of exhibitions and multicultural exchange.
• Miami Beach’s No Vacancy Program from Thursday, November 13th, 2025 - Saturday, December 20th, 2025: Hotel-based art installations featuring local artists.
• Miami Book Fair from Sunday, November 16th, 2025 - Sunday, November 23rd, 2025: Bringing together 400+ authors across languages and genres.
• Miami Beach Classical Music Festival - Holiday Festival Of Lights: Immersive orchestral projections along Ocean Drive.
• Miami City Ballet’s 40th Anniversary Season: A milestone program under Artistic Director Gonzalo Garcia.
• Wynwood Wall’s Goldman Global Arts Gallery presents Beyond Echoes of a Borderless Life through Sunday, November 16th, 2025: A dual solo exhibition by renowned Street Artists Millo and Seth, featuring new works, a collaborative piece and a site-specific installation that explores human connection, empathy and shared nostalgia across borders.
Additional activations include the Miami Beach Culture Crawl, Adrienne Arsht Center’s 20th Season, Actors’ Playhouse’s 30th Anniversary Season, and cultural programming from renowned partners such as The Betsy Hotel and Faena Hotel Miami Beach.
A Season to Be Inspired
Whether strolling through open-air galleries on Lincoln Road, engaging with cutting-edge performances, or witnessing cultural traditions reimagined, Fall for the Arts underscores why Greater Miami and Miami Beach stand at the crossroads of global creativity.
For a complete list of special offers available from the GMCVB’s Miami Fall for the Arts, visit: https://www.miamiandbeaches.com /things-to-do/art-and-culture.
Miami Beach Classical Music Festival
Art Deco Walk - South Beach
Miami Beach Classical Music Festival Immersive Space Symphony Concert
of 5°C in sealed chambers and recorded unexplained whispers in the dungeon of the tower. Between its grim legends and cinematic setting, Corvin Castle isn’t just a sight; it’s a descent into the very roots of vampire myth.
Lizzie Borden House, Massachusetts, USA - TripAdvisor Score: 4.8/5
The Lizzie Borden House is one of America’s most infamous murder sites, and one of its most booked Halloween stays. The bed-and-breakfast now hosts sold-out tours and overnight experiences months in advance, with October reservations often closing out by midsummer.
Paranormal investigators report consistent activity: disembodied voices, moving objects, and footsteps matching police accounts from the 1892 double murder. Ghost-hunting groups claim over 70% of overnight EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena) sessions capture unexplained noises. Each October, the Borden House’s grim authenticity and chilling silence make it an unnerving overnight, especially for those brave enough to sleep in the “murder room.”
Hill of Crosses, Lithuania -
TripAdvisor Score: 4.7/5
Rising out of rural fields near Siauliai, Lithuania’s Hill of Crosses is a haunting monument of faith, defiance, and mystery. More than 200,000 crosses, crucifixes, and rosaries crowd the hill, left by pilgrims since the 19th century.
Visitors report that the clatter of wind through the crosses sounds almost like whispering voices. The site draws about 100,000 visitors a year, many arriving in autumn to witness the eerie beauty in October. Locals report ghostly figures and glowing lights among the crosses at night, a reminder that this sacred site also car ries centuries of resistance, death, and devotion.
Tower of London, England -
TripAdvisor Score: 4.6/5
The Tower of London is as infamous for its ghosts as for its crown jewels. Hosting over 3 million visitors annually, its halls and dungeons have witnessed torture, executions, and betrayal for nearly a mil lennium.
October tours sell out weeks in advance, as guests hope to glimpse Anne Boleyn’s spectral figure or the “White Lady” seen waving from the tower win dows. Paranormal logs from UK ghost societies note over 200 separate ghost sightings on record since the 19th cen tury, making it statistically one of the most haunted places in Europe. The Tower’s blood-stained history ensures that every echoing footstep lingers a little too long.
Eastern State Penitentiary, Pennsylvania, USA - TripAdvisor Score: 4.6/5
Once the world’s most ambitious prison, Eastern State Penitentiary’s crumbling halls still echo with despair. Built in 1829 and closed in 1971, it now draws over 300,000 visitors annually, with October being its peak due to the “Halloween Nights” experience.
Ghost researchers have documented more than 60 verified paranormal incidents, from shadow figures in Cellblock 12 to sudden cold spots in solitary cells. During Halloween, actors and ambient effects blur the line between theatre and genuine terror, heightening the penitentiary’s long-standing reputation as one of the most haunted prisons in America.
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland -
TripAdvisor Score: 4.4/5
Dominating the Scottish capital, Edinburgh Castle receives 2 million visitors per year, but ghost-tour bookings skyrocket each October. Paranormal surveys conducted during the 2001 Edinburgh Ghost Project logged 51% of participants reporting ghostly sensations inside the vaults: touches, temperature drops, or shadows.
The tale of the missing piper boy, whose music is still heard beneath the fortress, and phantom prisoners from the Napoleonic wars lend credence to the castle’s eerie reputation. Under grey autumn skies, the ancient fortress feels less like a tourist site and more like a crossroads between centuries.
Charleville Castle, IrelandTripAdvisor Score: 4.4/5
Hidden in County Offaly’s forests, Charleville Castle has gained fame as
capped at just a few hundred per Halloween season, but the setting makes up in intensity what it lacks in crowds.
The most reported spirit is Harriet, a young girl who died on the staircase in the 1800s; her laughter and sometimes sobs echo through the halls. Paranormal investigators have reported spikes in electromagnetic readings near the staircase and crypt. With candlelight tours and a thunderstorm overhead, Charleville is pure Irish Gothic come alive.
Banff Springs Hotel, CanadaTripAdvisor Score: 4.4/5
Nicknamed the “Castle in the Rockies,” the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel’s ele-
her wedding day reportedly dances in her burnt gown; a ghostly bellman named Sam Macauley still helps guests before vanishing into thin air.
Google Street View even lists it among Canada’s most haunted destinations, and hotel staff confirm dozens of paranormal reports each year, particularly in the infamous Room 873, permanently sealed after an unspeakable tragedy.16 Despite, or perhaps because of, its luxury, Banff Springs remains the quintessential haunted hotel of the North.
Aokigahara Forest, JapanTripAdvisor Score: 4.3/5
Nestled at the base of Mount Fuji,
Forest is a dense woodland metres. The forest creates an atmosphere many visitors describe as unsettling, seemingly swallowing sound and light.
Known as the “Sea of Trees,” the forest is steeped in Japanese folklore, said to be haunted by Yurei, restless spirits that linger in the woods. Visitors often report a chilling stillness, whispers carried on the wind, or shadowy figures glimpsed along the trails, making Aokigahara a uniquely haunting destination for those drawn to paranormal history. The forest’s legends have been reinforced through literature, including Seicho¯ Matsumoto’s novel Nami no To, released in 1961.17.
Aokigahara
Tower of London, England
Aokigahara Forest, Japan
Banff Springs Hotel, Canada
Charleville Castle, Ireland
Corvin Castle, Romania
Eastern State Penitentiary
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland Hill of Crosses, Lithuania
Lizzie Borden House, Massachusetts
From Page 1A
expansion, it’s about preserving the flavors, memories and spirit of home that first inspired the concept. “Our menu is a love letter to my mother’s kitchen,” says co-founder Tamer Altillawi. “Every guest was always treated like family, and no one ever left hungry. She gave me her recipes and inspired me to cook for others. With Sufrat, we want every guest to feel like they’ve been invited into our home – to sit at the table, share a meal, and experience true hospitality.” After moving to the U.S. at 19, Tamer worked in a Cuban cafeteria in Miami, where he learned Spanish and honed his cooking skills. Yet at home, he would return to his roots, preparing his mother’s recipes for friends and his brothers around the apartment table. That natural sense of hosting, paired with his culinary heritage, became the foundation for Sufrat. The word Sufrat loosely translates to “feast” and embodies the kind of abundant dining table Tamer knows well; where family and friends gather, pass plates, share stories and make memories.
Like his home, the heart of Sufrat is the kitchen, where every dish is made inhouse from scratch and designed for sharing. Standout starters include Falafel $7, Kibbeh $8, Grape Leaves $7 and Chargrilled Octopus $20, glazed with a tangy Mediterranean Herb Sauce and served on a bed of fries topped with creamy, harissa-spiced labneh. The Dip Sampler $16 features velvety Hummus drizzled with Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Za’atar, Tangy Labneh, Smoky Baba Ghanoush Slow-Roasted over Charcoal, and Muhammara made with Roasted Red Peppers and Toasted Walnuts — all served with freshly baked pita. An array of fresh soups, salads and sandwiches $10–$13 make Sufrat a versatile option for lunch or dinner. Platters are all served with two sides, working great as a standalone entree as a sharing item. Not-to-bemissed among the 12+ options are Lamb Chops; the Sufrat mixed grill and the Delight Mix, cubed Ribeye, Lamb and Chicken sauteed with Onions and the brand’s proprietary Secret Black Sauce.
Large groups or those looking for the ultimate culinary showstopper should look no further than Sufrat’s dramaticallypresented family combos, all served gloriously upon a copper Persian tray stand. At Sufrat there’s no better way to transform any group meal into a festive feast. The Family Combo $90 includes a large Greek Salad, Basmati Rice, four Chicken Kebab Skewers, two Beef Kebab Skewers, two Kafta Skewers, and a portion of Chicken Shawarma. The Sufrat Combo $109 features Basmati Rice, Yellow or Angel Hair, a large Greek Salad, three Chicken Kebab Skewers, three Beef Kebab Skewers, two Kofta Skewers, three Lamb Chops, a portion of Chicken Shawarma, and a portion of Beef Shawarma. Guests can also customize their own mixed grill combo for $90. To finish the meal, Sufrat offers housemade desserts that guarantee the perfect sweet finish to any feast. A must-try is a traditional Arabic Knafeh, consisting of thin shredded phyllo layered with cheese, baked to perfection then topped with attar syrup and nuts. Also on offer, everything from Greek and Turkish Baklava and Nutella Walnut Pie. Of course, dessert is best enjoyed with a bracing cup of Turkish coffee! Speaking of beverages, Sufrat’s
spirited cocktail program features inventive libations such as the Turkish Delight, Jordanian Sunrise, Lebanese Paradise, Moroccan Mojito and Istanbul Fresh, each carefully designed to pair with the bold, fresh flavors of the kitchen.
Beyond its flavorful menu and creative cocktails, Sufrat has become a true destination, the kind of place where every night feels like a celebration. Whether it’s a relaxed family dinner, a romantic date, or a lively night out with friends, the restaurant’s spirited programming keeps guests coming back for more. On weekends, belly dancers light up the dining room as music fills the air and lines form out the door, while weeknights draw regulars for happy hour, themed events, and spontaneous celebrations. Each location buzzes with the kind of warmth and energy that turns dinner into an experience. The atmosphere is matched by
design that’s both modern and rooted in tradition. Warm lighting, rich textures, and thoughtful Mediterranean-inspired décor create a space that feels like a contemporary home by the sea – inviting, stylish, and meant for gathering. Open layouts encourage connection, conversation, and the shared joy that defines the Sufrat experience. So what’s next for Sufrat? Expansion plans are in process with news on that front coming soon. “We’re so blessed to be where we are and to enjoy the fandom we’ve gained and look forward to what is to come,” adds Tamer, who spends most of his time bopping between all three locations with his younger brother Ahmad (Don) Altillawi overseeing Pembroke Pines and Samer Altillawi at the Miami Beach store. The saying might be “it takes a village” but at Sufrat, it takes a family. Sufrat Grill has three locations in Pines
Sufrat
[1] The concept for Sufrat is rooted in a simple but powerful idea: food tastes best when it’s shared with loved ones around a table. [2] The Dip Sampler features velvety Hummus drizzled with
Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Za’atar, Tangy Labneh, Smoky Baba Ghanoush Slow-Roasted over Charcoal, and Muhammara made with Roasted Red Peppers and Toasted Walnuts — all served with freshly baked pita. [3] Beyond its flavorful menu and creative cocktails, Sufrat has become a true destination. [4] Chargrilled Octopus. [5] The Family Combo includes a large Greek Salad, Basmati Rice, four Chicken Kebab Skewers, two Beef Kebab Skewers, two Kafta Skewers, and a portion of Chicken Shawarma.
[1]
[2]
[3]
[4]
Regular eye exams, including specific Glaucoma tests, are important for the early detection and diagnosis of Glaucoma. If diagnosed early, an eye doctor can recommend treatment to manage Glaucoma and help prevent vision loss.
“Many patients are surprised to learn glaucoma often presents with no initial symptoms,” said Oluwatosin U. Smith, MD, Glaucoma Specialist and Ophthalmologist at Glaucoma Associates of Texas. “That’s why routine, comprehensive eye exams are so vital. These screenings allow us to detect Glaucoma in its earliest stages, often before any vision loss occurs. Early diagnosis and treatment are the cornerstone of effective Glaucoma management and it empowers us to take proactive steps to protect your vision.”
To check for Glaucoma, your eye doctor tests your eye pressure, peripheral vision and overall eye health. The painless screening is the only way to accurately
have been the most common treatment to help lower eye pressure and slow the progression of the disease.
Although prescription eye drops are commonly prescribed and generally effective at lowering eye pressure, they can cause challenges and unwanted side effects, including redness, irritation, burning, stinging or difficulty putting them in the eye. In addition, patients may find it difficult to remember to take their eye drops every day, and missing doseseven by accident - can put vision at risk by allowing eye pressure to rise unchecked.
When prescription eye drops are unsuccessful at controlling eye pressure or managing Glaucoma, an eye doctor may change treatment by prescribing additional prescription eye drops, which can make the challenges and inconveniences associated with prescription eye drops worse.
and wait” until Glaucoma progresses before exploring alternative treatment - to proactive management.
Taking a proactive approach to Glaucoma treatment means choosing a minimally invasive procedure earlier in the treatment journey to help slow the progression of Glaucoma and minimize vision loss while reducing the challenges of daily prescription eye drops.
“The shift toward a more proactive approach represents a significant advancement in how we manage Glaucoma,” Smith said. “Traditionally, we waited for vision loss before a procedural intervention. However, with modern minimally invasive procedures, we can now proactively lower eye pressure and protect the optic nerve much earlier. This approach helps us preserve our patients’ vision and quality of life for longer. I encourage anyone with a Glaucoma diagnosis, or those with risk factors, to dis-
implants that deliver medication continuously to help lower eye pressure and protect vision.
• Micro-invasive, or minimally invasive, Glaucoma surgery involves less-invasive procedures, devices (such as stents) and techniques with faster recovery times than traditional surgeries.
• Laser treatment commonly involves a laser being aimed through a special lens onto the drainage system of the eye, triggering a natural change that helps fluid drain from the eye to lower pressure.
These treatments may be used in combination with prescription eye drops or on their own.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with glaucoma, visit: livingwith glaucoma.com to learn more and help manage the condition.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
Many patients are surprised to learn glaucoma often presents with no initial symptoms.
Joshua Kane Brings Spine-Chilling Storytelling To Aventura Arts & Cultural Center With Gothic At Midnight: An Evening Of Hilarity And Horror!
Just in time for Halloween, audiences are invited to embrace the thrills, chills and laughter of the season when acclaimed actor and master storyteller
Joshua Kane takes the stage for Gothic at Midnight: An Evening of Hilarity and Horror! on Friday, October 24th at 7:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Presented by the City of Aventura, this one-man theatrical conjures a world of classic Gothic literature brought to life with uncanny energy, humor and suspense. The evening promises a roller-coaster
ride through the ghoulish, as Kane channels the chilling works of Edgar Allan Poe, Charles Dickens, Ambrose Bierce and other legendary masters of dark fiction. Inspired by the old-time radio dramas of Orson Welles and Vincent Price, Kane bewitches audiences with a devilish sense of fun and whimsy with an array of unforgettable characters — each more haunting and hilarious than the last. Kane has been praised as “a voice that mesmerizes…” by the NY Daily News with the Charleston City Paper noting that he “amuses you with his antics, frightens you
with his intensity and charms you with his tales of the fantastic.” With his deft blend of theatricality and wit, Kane ensures the audience is both spellbound and entertained, creating an atmosphere that is equal parts eerie and exhilarating.
Tickets to all shows are on sale now.
Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www. aventuracenter.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 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307.
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 Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-Square-Foot, 330-Seat Waterfront Complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages.
City Of Dania Beach Launches Community Grant Program For Non-Profit Organizations
The City of Dania Beach launches its first-ever Community Grant Program, opening new opportunities for local nonprofit organizations to partner with the City in delivering programs and services that benefit residents.
The Fiscal Year 2026 Community Grant Program application period is open from Wednesday, October 15th, 2025 through Sunday, November 30th, 2025. Eligible organizations may receive up to $10,000 in Grant funding within a single funding year. The program was approved by the Dania Beach City Commission as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, reflecting the City’s commitment to supporting local NonProfits and investing in communitybased initiatives.
“We are committed to ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, transparently and in a way that delivers measurable benefits to the community,” said Chief Financial Officer Yeimy Guzman, City of Dania Beach. “This Grant Program allows local NonProfits to expand their impact while maintaining the highest standards of accountability to our community.”
The Dania Beach Community Grant Program supports NonProfit Organizations that enhance the quality of life for residents through programs, services and events that align with the City’s strategic goals. These goals include maintaining a financially sound and responsible city, investing in Infrastructure and facilities, fostering a vibrant and sustainable community, and creating opportunities for leisure and cultural experiences.
Organizations must be Tax-Exempt NonProfits that provide programs or services for Dania Beach residents such as
Aventura Arts & Cultural Center
Seeks Volunteer Ushers
host events of local significance that offer economic, social or public relations benefits, including initiatives that promote environmental awareness, educational excellence, the arts or scientific research, or deliver programs that address urgent community needs or respond to natural disasters.
Eligible funding may be used for gen-
enhance the city’s positive image.
Key Dates
• Application Period: Wednesday, October 15th, 2025 - Sunday, November 30th, 2025
• Awards Announced: Early February 2026
• Expenditure Deadline: Wednesday, September 30th, 2026
• Final Report Due: Thursday, October 15th, 2026
requirements. Failure to remain compliant will result in exclusion from City grants and funding opportunities.
Application materials and program guidelines are available on the City’s website at: https://daniabeachfl.gov/3249/ Community-Grant-Program. Completed applications must be submitted by Sunday, November 30th, 2025.
[L] The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 N.E.188 Street in Aventura. [R] Gothic at Midnight Courtesy of Aventura Arts & Cultural Center.
Call To Artists And NonProfit Organizations
This Two-Day Live Mural Festival Celebrates Art, Culture And Community In Fort Lauderdale
Business for the Arts Broward (BFA), in partnership with the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), invites local artists and arts and culture Non-Profit Organizations to participate in the inaugural BFA Art Walls Mural Fest, a two-day, community-driven celebration of art, collaboration and impact on Saturday, February 28th, 2026 and Sunday, March 1st, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at History Fort Lauderdale.
This exciting event will pair 10 local art and culture Non-Profits with 10 established and emerging artists who will each create an eight-foot-byeight-foot mural inspired by the NonProfit’s mission.
The festivities kick off with a special BFA Art & Spirits celebration on Monday, February 16th, 2026 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the BBX Capital Gallery that showcases partici pating artists and organizations with an exclusive liquor tasting and art exhibit with BFA’s sponsors and sup porters.
Artists and Non-Profit Organizations are encouraged to apply and participate. Artist applications for the Art Walls Mural Fest open Wednesday, October 1st, 2025 and close on Monday, November 10th, 2025. Muralists must be residents of Florida, with preference given to South Florida artists. Both established artists with 10 or more public works and emerging artists with up to 10 public works are encouraged to apply. The selected artists will be notified on Thursday, November 20th, 2025.
To enter, artists must indicate whether they are an emerging or established artist, submit their artist bio and 10-15 images of previous murals or large-scale works and pro vide a brief statement on why they are interested in participating. Artists should be open to collaborating with an arts and cultural non-profit partner and incorporating the non-profit’s mis sion or values into the mural design, while staying true to their own creative aesthetic. Artists must apply through the CAFÉ website: https:// artist.callforentry.org/festivals_unique_ info.php?ID=16215
Established artists will receive a $2,000 mural honorarium and a $200 stipend to display artwork in BBX Capital while emerging artists will receive a $1,000 mural honorarium and a $200 stipend to display artwork in BBX Capital. Additional benefits include live mural creation during the public highprofile event, as well as a four-month exhibition and sales opportunity at BBX Capital and the Art & Spirits pre-event. Artists will also have the chance to build meaningful connections with community leaders, nonprofit organizations, fellow muralists, art collectors, business professionals and potential collaborators. Artists also will earn lasting visibility through the donation of completed murals to partner arts and cultural non-profits.
covering the duration of the festival.
Insurance must list Business for the Arts Broward (BFA) and History Fort Lauderdale as additionally insured. Each artist must sign a Visual Artists Rights Act (VARA) waiver acknowledging that the temporary nature of the mural panels and
tunity to showcase itself over two days and partner with a professional artist who will create a mural inspired by its mission. They also gain visibility, recruit volunteers and engage the community through a free vendor table at the event. This experience highlights their impact, builds lasting con-
Broward County, ability to help promote the event via social media and email campaigns, community impact and reach and youth programs offered. If applicable, five youth-oriented non-profits will be selected. This year’s sponsors include BBX
work. Murals created during the festival will be donated to partnering art and cultural non-profit organizations. Artists grant permission for BFA and partner nonprofits to photograph, reproduce and use images of the artwork for promotional, educational and fundraising purposes, with credit to the artist whenever possible. They are also expected to comply with all festival guidelines, deadlines and on-site safety requirements.
All artwork will be offered for sale with proceeds split between the artist (75%) and BFA (25%).
All selected artists will be required to provide proof of general liability insurance
Applications for local arts and cultural non-profit organizations open on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025 and close on Monday, November 10th, 2025. Selected organizations will be announced on Thursday, November 20th, 2025.
Participation in this event provides a non-profit organization with the oppor-
free community arts event designed to foster collaboration, creativity and awareness. More information and non-profit applications are availabe at: https:// bfabroward.org/programs/bfa-art-wallsmural-fest/call-to-arts-and-culturalnonprofits/
Selected non-profits will receive a $1,000 stipend and receive the artists’ completed mural after the event to display at their location. There is also an optional opportunity for Non-Profits to perform during the festival.
To apply, NonProfits must provide the name of the organization, mission statement and contact information for one staff member to serve as the primary point of contact.
Non-Profits will be scored on established arts and cultural organizations in
the Downtown Development Authority (DDA).
For additional information, contact BFA’s Executive Director Robyn Vegas at: (954) 940-4933. Or: rvegas@bfa broward.org. Full event details are available at: https://bfabroward.org/programs/ bfa-art-walls-mural-fest/.
About Business for the Arts Broward
Business for the Arts Broward is a NotFor-Profit 501(c)(3) engaging businesses and business leaders to advocate and educate about the importance of the County’s art and cultural community as well as to recognize the connection between cultural vitality, creative success, and economic development. To learn more, visit: www.Facebook.com/ BFABroward - Or: www.bfabroward.org.
LEGAL NOTICE
Spooktacular Family
Fun At Galleria Fort Lauderdale’s Halloween Boo Bash Costume contest, Mall Trick-orTreating, Character
Photos and More
During This Free Event
Galleria Fort Lauderdale’s Halloween Boo Bash on October 30 offers free family fun with trick-or-treating, costume contests and character photos. (Image courtesy of Galleria Fort Lauderdale)
Families are invited to celebrate the spooky season at Galleria Fort Lauderdale’s Halloween Boo Bash on Thursday, October 30th, 2025 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Located by Swarovski inside the mall, this festive event will offer safe, family-friendly Halloween fun for all ages.
Guests will enjoy mall-wide trick-ortreating, a children’s costume contest (12 and under) with a $150 shopping spree courtesy of Dillard’s for first prize, cookie decorating, a coloring station and photos with costumed characters.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for families to celebrate Halloween in a safe and engaging environment,” said Melissa Milroy, Senior Marketing Manager at Galleria Fort Lauderdale. “We are excited to welcome the community for an evening filled with treats, creativity and seasonal fun.” The Halloween Boo Bash is free and open to the public. Families are encouraged to come in costume and enjoy the holiday excitement together.
For more information about Galleria Fort Lauderdale or for a complete list of retailers, call: (954) 564-1036. Or visit: www.galleriamall-fl.com.
About Galleria Fort Lauderdale Galleria Fort Lauderdale, recognized as one of South Florida’s premier shopping destinations, features a variety of popular dining and retail options. Macy’s, Dillard’s
establishments such as Seasons 52, The Capital Grille and P.F. Chang’s. Powerhouse Gym and Blue Martini can also be found at the property. Just steps
Center with easy access from Sunrise Boulevard, U.S. Highway 1 (Federal Highway), Interstate 95, Interstate 595, and U.S. Highway A1A (Fort Lauderdale and 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday. Restaurants and anchors enjoy varied hours.
FIU Earns
No. 1 University Ranking In Florida For Second Year In A Row
Florida International University has once again secured its place as the top university in Florida in The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings, marking the second consecutive year FIU has led the state. Nationally, FIU is ranked No. 54 (up from No. 77 last year) and No. 22 among public universities. The Wall Street Journal rankings focus on how well colleges prepare students for financial success, rewarding “the boost an institution provides to its graduates’ salaries.” The rankings weigh student outcomes and learning environment in the calculations. The methodology places particular emphasis on how well institutions improve the trajectories of their students’ lives –including graduation rates and their postuniversity salaries – as well as the quality of the classroom experience.
FIU’s continued recognition underscores the university’s commitment to providing a world-class education that delivers results. The ranking as Florida’s top university demonstrates the insti-
tution’s strength in academic excellence, research impact, and student success, while also reflecting the voices of students who consistently rate their FIU experience highly. “These rankings reaffirm what our students and alumni already know: FIU delivers results,” said FIU President Jeanette M. Nuñez. “We are providing an incredible education that transforms lives, fuels innovation, and strengthens Florida’s workforce and economy. To be recognized as the state’s top university for the second year in a row is a testament to our faculty, our staff, and our students.” FIU’s success in The Wall Street Journal ranking comes on the heels of a string of national accolades. These rankings come on the heels of a series of accolades: In Florida, FIU has been No. 1 for three years in a row in performance-based funding metrics that measure student success In the U.S. News & World Report rankings released last week, FIU made the top 50 public university list again at No. 46 and was ranked No. 1 in the nation for social mobility (upward economic
mobility).
Washington Monthly ranked FIU the No. 8 university in the country FIU was named No. 21 among Top Public Universities (No. 70 nationally) by Niche
Washington Monthly also recognized FIU as the No. 1 “Best Bang for the Buck” in the Southeast in its national rankings.
FIU is one of just 21 institutions nationwide with both the Carnegie R1 designation for very high research activity and the Opportunity Colleges & Universities designation “The Wall Street Journal rankings are focused on outcomes that matter most to students and their families –career prospects, earnings and experiences,” said FIU Provost, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Elizabeth M. Béjar. “To be recognized once again as Florida’s top university confirms that FIU is excelling where it counts: preparing students for successful careers, advancing impactful research, and ensuring a return on investment that transforms lives.”
About FIU:
Florida International University is a Top 50, preeminent public research university with 55,000 students from all 50 states and more than 140 countries, as well as an alumni network of more than 340,000. Located in the global city of Miami, the university offers more than 200 degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate and professional levels, including medicine and law. FIU faculty are leaders in their fields and include National Academy members, Fulbright Scholars, and MacArthur Genius Fellows.
A Carnegie R1 institution, FIU drives impactful research in environmental resilience, health, and technology and innovation. Home to the Wall of Wind and Institute of Environment, FIU stands at the forefront of discovery and innovation. With a focus on student success, economic mobility and community engagement, FIU is redefining what it means to be a public research university.
If your doctor has concerns about your Cholesterol levels, you may be familiar with statins. This is a class of medications that can help reduce your body’s Cholesterol production, lowering your risk of Heart Attack or Stroke.
However, up to 30% of adults in the United States have some degree of Statin Intolerance, according to research published in the “Journal of Clinical Lipidology.” Possible signs or symptoms of Statin Intolerance are muscle aches and cramps, fatigue, weakness, elevated Liver Enzymes and the onset of Diabetes or Impaired Glucose Tolerance.
As a result, nearly one-third of patients (29%) discontinue their Statin within the first year, according to findings published in the “American Journal of Cardiology.” Unfortunately, patients with Statin Intolerance are at an increased risk of
Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol, which is commonly referred to as “Bad” Cholesterol because it leads to the accumulation of Plaque in your Arteries. Plaque reduces your blood flow, which can cause damage to your Cardiovascular System.
Bloodwork is the best indicator of your Cholesterol Levels, since you may not experience any symptoms of High Cholesterol until you already have damage and buildup in your Arteries.
To help create your treatment plan, talk to your doctor about your medical history, including whether you’ve had a Heart Attack or any Heart Procedures, such as a Stent Placement or Bypass Surgery.
You’ll also review current medications, recent lab results and notes on any symptoms you may be experiencing.
Your doctor is likely to recommend a series of steps to reduce your Cholesterol.
of exercise daily, find ways to include more movement in your everyday lifestyle and if necessary, work toward shedding extra weight.
Lifestyle changes can help but may not make a big enough impact to reduce Cholesterol to a recommended level. In those cases, doctors rely on CholesterolLowering Medications such as Statins. Statins can be highly effective at reducing Bad Cholesterol, making them a powerful tool to reduce the risks associated with Heart Disease.
When Statins Are Intolerable Or Aren’t Enough
For a variety of reasons, including intolerance to the medication, other health conditions or interactions with other medications, Statins may not be the right choice for everyone.
“While Statins remain the gold standard for Cholesterol lowering, I often see
patients who either can’t or won’t take a ther LDL Cholesterol reduction,” said Guy L. Mintz, Director of Cardiovascular Health & Lipidology at Northwell Health System.
“For those patients, I prescribe Non-Statin Medications, such as Nexletol, an oral prescription medication with the Cholesterol Lowering Agent Bempedoic Acid and Nexlizet, a combination of Cholesterol-Lowering Medicines Bempedoic Acid and Ezetimibe.
I am comfortable using Nexletol and Nexlizet, along with a healthy diet and exercise, to reduce LDL Cholesterol in adults with High Blood Cholesterol Levels and to reduce risk of Heart Events. Nonstatins are another important therapeutic tool in our Lipid lowering toolbox.”
To learn more visit: www.Nexlizet.com. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at: 1 (800) FDA-1088. Or call: 1 (800) 332-1088.
NOTICE OF COMMUNITY MEETING
Florida Room:
Where Southern Comfort And Coastal Cool Meet
Celebrity Chefs Jeff McInnis And Janine Booth Debut
Their First Broward County Restaurant At The Fort Recreational Complex
Anyone seeking further proof that the Fort Lauderdale food scene is en fuego need look no further than the arrival of husband-and-wife star chefs Jeff McInnis and Janine Booth’s newest sensation, Florida Room. Situated waterside at The Fort recreational center – a gorgeous, sprawling 9.5 acre sports and entertainment complex – Florida Room signals (finally) the culinary power couple’s first venture into Broward County. Florida Room opened to the public on October 15th, initially serving dinner only and will surely be a welcome addition to the city’s booming culinary landscape; offering the couple’s adored globally-accented take on Southern American and coastal comfort food as well as a bustling indoor-outdoor bar perfect for the upcoming winter season. “We envisioned Florida Room as the perfect spot for affordable, comfortable, stress-free weeknight dining, a fun family dinner or drinks with happy hour friends,” says McInnis. “Naturally the offerings are elevated by technique and made with the best ingredients available but a night at Florida Room should feel familiar and comforting in the best possible ways.” The menu is as expansive as the ocean and as generous as the serving sizes with close to 40 offerings, from salads (Grove + Garden) and appetizers (Small Plates + Shareables) to entrees (Larger Plates) and best if shared Favorites + Classics. It might be hard to pick once seated but future favorite meal starters that jump off the menu’s current itineration include: Crunchy Calamari Caesar; Wood Grilled Artichokes; Peaches n’ Cream (marinated and char-grilled peaches, shaved prosciutto; creamy stracciatella, basil, EVOO and sourdough toast): House-made Tater Tots with crème fraiche and caviar; Pimento Cheese with melted tomato and
shaved black truffle; and chili-lime dusted Yellowfin Tuna with miso sweet potato puree. Florida Room showstoppers will inarguably hail from the Favorites + Classics section, consisting of Double Buttermilk Crispy Fried Chicken; an 18 oz. Australian Ribeye, charcoal crusted and served with marrow butter and a trio of sauces, and Barbecued & Brûléed
Smokey Ribs. A tempting array of Sides will pair well with everything/anything, cherries. In development for later this year will be weekend brunch.
In keeping with its name and location, Florida Room’s color palette will be equal parts earthy sand and lush greenery, the 4,000-square-foot dining room features an indoor/outdoor bar, spilling out onto the patio deck on one side, overlooking one of The Fort’s awesome pickleball courts. Seating breaks down as follows: 100 inside; 100 outdoor and 45 in the
restaurant’s private dining room. In addition to big flavors, Florida Room also offers big spaces perfect for everything from private dinners and banquets to full blown galas. In fact, housed above the restaurant is a 4,000-square-foot event space as versatile as anything in the Florida Room, is located at 891 Southwest 34th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33315. Ample free parking available. Dinner will be served Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Telephone: (954) 222-1965. Or visit: https://playthefort.com/. Follow Florida Room on Social Media: @floridaroomftl
Wood Plank Salmon
Surf & Turf
Short Rib Meatloaf
Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza
Double Buttermilk Crispy Fried Chicken
Double Smash Burger
Traffic And Flooding In Hallandale Beach Pt. 2
As promised, I am continuing my article from last week with a Stormwater-flooding update. Over the past years in office, I have been keenly focused on Water Resources. As past Chair of the US Mayors Water Council, I have had the opportunity to gain experience and access great resources and experts on the National level. When people talk about water, they often just think of drinking water. This is only one part of a threelegged stool. Water Resources include potable water, wastewater, and stormwater.
Being a mayor from Florida gave me an opportunity to share what was taking place in our backyard. Many elected Mayors did not even know what King Tide was. They thought a flood was simply tied to hurricanes and major storms. Many people that even live in our city were unaware of what King Tides were until they witnessed the impacts. King Tide combined with the new reality of sea level rise has reached an alarming stage. Many climate change deniers are now realizing this is not an existential threat, it is a threat to everyone here.
I along with many elected officials have been sounding this alarm. At our last budget meeting, I raised the issue that while we have so many projects that are addressing aged Infrastructure with potable water and wastewater, we need to look at stormwater more aggressively. Traffic has and will remain a top complaint, but flooding has jumped its way to second. It is my opinion that it should be
the top issue. It is a public safety issue.
One of my colleagues at the Water Council inquired about the threat of hurricanes. He asked, “How can I live in an area that faces hurricanes annually?” He was not expecting my answer. I said, “While high winds create destruction, we continue to harden our properties and improve our planning. What causes me to lose sleep is storm surge and flooding. They kill people.” He was shocked. The past year, we witnessed multiple deadly storms. Some in areas where hurricanes never struck before.
So, what are we doing about flooding?
We have always had a Stormwater Plan. FEMA has established flood maps for years. Our Staff and the Transportation and Flood Management Advisory Board work annually, submitting our plans. We actually have always received great ratings and actually those ratings helped reduce flood insurance rates. We have also looked to improve drainage.
One of the projects that we implemented was Chaves Lake pumping area. This was a joint project with Pembroke Park and FDOT. The next large project was the Northeast Pumping Stations and Southwest Pumping Station. The Northeast Project along 14th Avenue was only half of what was needed to be completed. The other half was always contemplated and part of our Master Plan. I requested this project be moved up and it was added to the priority list after the first 1000-year storm. This past session our 10 million dollar funding request was made to the State Budget but was cut by the
Governor.
Fast forward to last year with the two 1000-year storm events, we began to readdress our Master Plan and created a new Emergency Response Plan to include many measures to address the new reality of micro storms. These are where smaller areas are hit with massive rain. Not simply a few inches but 5 inches to up to 26 inches in hours. The most recent event was 4 inches in less than an hour. This combined with king tide created flooding. I received many text messages and calls but thankfully only received one with a report of water in a garage. Some cars were not that lucky.
Earlier this year the United States Army Corps of Engineers USACE and Broward County updated their plans. They include resiliency goals. These plans were recently presented to the South Florida municipalities. The plan is a large-scale plan for the entire area south of Lake Okeechobee. It is not a plan for every city.
While we are updating the Stormwater Master Plan we have and will continue to do smaller projects that include cleaning projects of major underground pipes, adding tie ins to existing systems and smaller localized drainage projects. We must evaluate our vulnerability not simply for today but the future.
Residents may ask, we know flooding is everywhere now, why not just put in pumps? Why not pump out? The second part is easy with the Sea Level Rise the water table has risen there is nowhere to pump too but pump down. We know the issue of Sea Level Rise has gotten worse.
An assessment of vulnerability is necessary so we can move forward with an accurate blueprint taking every area into consideration. This study is taking into consideration all the updated USACE and Broward County studies which update a detailed sea level map. A detailed report of various levels of flooding and the impacts of events like storm surge and the capacity needed to address various scenarios of flooding for the long-term is needed to establish a blueprint. Only then can we build out a new strategic plan. I like to remind residents that water knows no boundary. A1A, Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach Boulevard and Pembroke Road are all state and county-controlled roads. Our City borders Miami-Dade County to the south and Hollywood to the north. Some of the projects will involve multiple partners. We need to understand what portion of these projects are our responsibility and which responsibilities need to be shared. Staff have received the preliminary study and are in the review and comment period. After they are done it will be presented to the commission. It will include all types of improvements. The biggest question is how it will be paid for.
As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns and ideas to make our City a better place on 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!
By Hallandale Beach Mayor, Joy Cooper
Steps Students
Entrepreneurship is a career goal for many working adults. Autonomy and personal satisfaction are just a couple of the benefits of running your own business.
It’s a professional path about 3 in 5 teens would prefer over a traditional job, according to a survey by Junior Achievement (JA). Running a successful company depends on multiple factors, including a solid business plan, adequate startup resources and a receptive market, as well as a strong sense of responsibility, work ethic and ability to persevere under pressure.
Beginning to shape the skills and mindset necessary to flourish as an entrepreneur can begin well before entering the workforce.
In fact, even students in junior high and high school can begin working toward entrepreneurial goals with these tips from JA, a NonProfit that inspires and prepares young people by delivering lessons in financial literacy, work and career readiness.
1. Select Electives Wisely
Students don’t have to wait until they’re in college to begin developing business skills and knowledge. If they have the ambition and drive to become an entrepreneur, they may find it beneficial to complement the classes needed for graduation requirements with electives that allow them to explore their interest in the business world. Some examples include accounting, marketing, finance, economics, psychology and computer science.
2. Make Part-Time Work Meaningful
Many students enter the workforce in high school to start practicing money management and contribute to expenses like gas and car insurance. While most jobs available to students are service oriented and fall outside the business world, it doesn’t hurt to explore options that put students closer to their entrepreneurial ambitions. For example, local small businesses may be willing to hire someone eager to learn.
3. Take Part in Programs
Kids can challenge themselves by putting their knowledge into practice as real-world entrepreneurs. For example, JA’s Company Program is an immersive program that fosters creativity, critical thinking and business acumen, offering students unique opportunities to explore the world of business and economics by creating real companies. Participants learn to present their business plans and results during competitions that offer learning opportunities.
Additionally, at the Future Bound competition which is made possible through the support of businesses including Chick-fil-A, Delta Air Lines, Pacific Life Foundation and Staples, participants took part in seminars and mentorship. The event featured four programs that empower students with entrepreneurship and financial literacy skillsthe Company of the Year National Competition, the Social Innovation Challenge, the Titan National Competition and the National Stock Market Challenge.
4. Seek a Strong Mentor
Some of the best learning comes from emulating others who are successful in their fields. Meeting regularly with someone who serves as a role model can help students sharpen their vision for the future and learn from the experiences that propelled professionals into their current positions.
5. Define a Future Vision
Creating an inspiration board can help motivated students compile and organize ideas. This board, whether physical or digital, can serve as a source of inspiration and help motivate students to identify and overcome obstacles while working toward bringing their visions for careers as entrepreneurs to life.
MOBILE HOMES