Sun Times Issue 12 25 19

Brighten Dental Care........................3A Casino @ Dania Beach.....................8A Classified....................................4B-5B Elite Auction.....................................5A

Hallandale Beach.............................4A Health...............................................4B Hollywood........................................7A Lifestyle......................................1B-3B

D E C E M B E R 2 5 , 2 0 1 9 • 1 4 PA G E S • V O L U M E 1 7 • I S S U E 1 3

AVENTURA • BAL HARBOUR • DANIA BEACH • HALLANDALE BEACH • HOLLYWOOD • NORTH MIAMI BEACH • PEMBROKE PINES • PEMBROKE PARK • SURFSIDE • SUNNY ISLES BEACH

2nd Annual Dirty Socks 5K Run & Walkathon: Ellie’s Army Is Saving Lives With the holiday season here, many area families have been celebrating and will be ringing in the New Year.

The thrill of any holiday comes

down to giving, and seeing the smiles on faces that will create memories to last a lifetime. For Stacey and Brian Levy, this is the time of year to reflect and bring

awareness to their daughter Ellie Levy, who is the inspiration for the “2nd Annual Dirty Socks 5K Run & Walkathon” - starting at the Aventura Library Jan. 19th.

Ellie Levy’s life was about teaching everyone about compassion and caring - while suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF), a terminal genetic disease that pri-

The Child That Christmas Forgot

By John W. Whitehead

The Christmas story of a baby born in a manger is a familiar one.

The Roman Empire, a police state in its own right, had ordered that a census be conducted. Joseph and his pregnant wife Mary traveled to the little town of Bethlehem so that they could be counted. There being no room for the couple at any of the inns, they stayed in a stable (a barn), where Mary gave birth to a baby boy, Jesus. Warned that the government planned to kill the baby, Jesus’ family fled with him to Egypt until it was safe to return to their native land.

Yet what if Jesus had been born 2,000 years later?

What if, instead of being born into the Roman police state, Jesus had been born at this moment in time? What kind of reception would Jesus and his family be given? Would we recognize the Christ child’s humanity, let alone his divinity? Would we treat him any differently than he was treated by the Roman Empire? If his family were forced to flee violence in their native country and sought refuge and asylum within our borders, what sanctuary would we offer them?

How would Jesus—the baby born in Bethlehem who grew into an itinerant preacher and revolutionary activist, who not only died challenging the police state of his day (namely, the Roman Empire) but spent his adult life speaking truth to power, challenging the status quo of his day, and pushing back against the abuses of the Roman Empire— react to the American Police State?

After all, Jesus—the revered Christmas, Page 6A

Ellie’s Army, Page 6A

With Rise in Anti-Semitism Nationwide

What if Jesus had been born 2,000 years later?

Immigration and speaking truth to power are controversial issues, John Whitehead, attorney and author debates if Jesus had been born 2,000 years later his antigovernment views would certainly have resulted in him being labeled a domestic extremist by law enforcement agencies.

marily affects the lungs.

What Ellie and her family saw, from the beginning, were people

New Year’s Resolutions And New Beginnings: The end of the year is upon us and it’s an excellent time to look back and reflect on all that we’ve accomplished, and all that we wish to accomplish in the next year. Many people take this time to think about the future and how we can better ourselves.

Whether you want to lose weight, travel more, develop a skill, work on your mental health, grow your business, or just generally strive towards being a better person; New Year’s resolutions are a wonderful way to create goals that can help us become happier and more successful in the fulfillment of our lives.

For this weeks’ article we’ve interviewed different people to find out what goals are going to be driving them in 2020, and what steps they’re going to take to achieve those goals. While some have ambitions of traveling, and others might wish to make a personal change, everyone is striving to create the best version of themselves and their lives that they can get.

Perhaps as you read you might find some familiarity between some of these people and yourself. We hope that some of these resolutions will inspire you to make some changes for the new year that will enhance the quality of your life. While some of the interviewees chose to go by their first name, others opted to go by their initials to protect their privacy.

Talia, 35, Hair Stylist

Joshua Kodner: Auctioneers, Gemologists and Appraisers, 6B

What are your New Year’s resolutions?

I have a few. One of them is to travel more. My goal is to get to places I have not been to yet.

Since we got the Hilton Vacation Time share, we earn points every year for life. My goal is to take advantage of that and to travel to places every year. I always want to put money aside and get into a better financial position. I would like to work in the administrative department of law enforcement. I don’t want to be a cop, it’s not for me, but I would love to work in the department having a different position. I also want to lose weight.

Why did you choose these resolutions?

I want to travel just because there’s so much more to this world than what we have in this grid we live in. There are so many cultures and people we can learn from. Being there gives us a whole new perspective as opposed to what we just learn in school.

What are you going to do to accomplish them?

Well, come new year I’m going to put in a resignation with my current job. I have contacts at the sheriff’s department so I’ll see if a get a position there. In terms of traveling, I’ll definitely start putting money aside to make those trips as well as researching areas I want to visit.

Once I have everything, I’ll start looking.

by Rabbi Moishe Kievman Chabad Chayil

Why did you choose these resolutions?

I’m about to be 21, and that’s young but I like to plan ahead. I want to start working on myself

Chabad has been hosting public menorah celebrations throughout South Florida for years, but weeks after the horrific antisemitic shooting in Jersey City, it will be celebrated by a record number of Jewish participants eager to stand together and face down growing antiSemitism throughout the United States and the world, with a defiant dose of Jewish pride during this years Chanukah celebrations.

The recent rise in hate speech and hate crimes nationwide, including deadly shootings in Pittsburgh, Pa., Poway, Calif., and most recently in Jersey City, N.J., has Chabad organizers throughout the state expecting the largest turnout ever to take a stand against hate in a show of Jewish pride and unity.

Chanukah is the celebration of light over darkness. The darkness that we, as a nation, have been experiencing must be fought with light and goodness, and Chabad is putting together the biggest programs ever to show that we will not be intimidated by those who wish to scare us.

From Sunday’s Menorah Lighting at the Dolphins Game and Monday with Jewish Heritage Night at the Heat Game, to Wednesday nights concert at Gulfstream Park and the hundreds of additional Chanukah events put on by each local Chabad, hundreds of thousands will be uniting to celebrate the festival of lights.

All are of course invited to join us at the amazing annual Chanukah Street Fair in Highland Lakes taking place Thursday, Dec 26, on NE 211th Terr, just off of Dixie Hwy. The free event, which includes roaming entertainment, circus shows, music, a food court, holiday boutique and

New Year’s, Page 4A

Anti-Semitism, Page 6A

Citizens Tell Us What Their Goals Are For The New Year And How They Will Accomplish Them

By Austin Torres

Larger Than Usual Crowds Expected at South Florida Chanukkah Public Menorah-Lightings

Jeanette, 50, Supervisor What are your New Year’s resolutions?

My New Year’s resolution is to listen better and more completely.

Why did you choose these resolutions?

I chose this because I’m trying to be a better me. If I listen it will help me grow as a person.

What are you going to do to accomplish them?

I have created little notes to put them in key places where my vision cannot miss them in an effort to force myself to stop and focus and listen completely before I say anything when someone else is talking to me.

Thaliana, 20, Hostess What are your New Year’s resolutions?

I want to work on building myself in a way I’m going to need for my adult life. I’m working on career opportunities and internships to develop myself. I also want work on my mental health, I’ve been seeing a therapist. Hopefully it will do something good for me so I can be happier and healthier for the next year.

Each State’s Most Searched Holiday Movie, 1B

Kodner Galleries Antiques and Much More, 2A

Page 2A southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019

A-SECTION

A-SECTION

southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019 Page 3A

Page 4A southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019

A-SECTION

HALLANDALE BEACH There is plenty of work to be done and issues to resolve

transfer of control of our department to BSO failed.

The main arguments against the motion were based on concerns of costs already incurred from the merger process to date.

These costs were for two trainings. As of the meeting there had been no capital investments. The other concern was due to a SAFER Grant that will allow our city to hire 14 new Fire Personnel. According to the grant terms these employees need to be hired by March. Two options offered to address this concern are a request to FEMA to extend the grant past March and the other was to simply hire the personnel now.

I want to make it clear that I have respect for BSO but have seen what happens when these or any contracts get renewed.

Currently Cooper City has been negotiating with BSO on their renewal for two years. They have been having major concerns over the of the lack of concise figures and costs. Other cities have seen huge increases in their contracts at the same level of service.

Bigger is not always better.

I believe we still have a chance to change direction, but it is up to the commission. It is also up to our residents to ask question and voice concerns.

As always, I am available to address your concerns anytime.

Please feel free to call me at 954457-1318 work or on my cell at 954-632-5700. You can also email me at jcooper@cohb.org or set up an appointment to discuss things in person.

By Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper

Happy Hanukah and Merry Christmas! It is great to be back on the dais serving our city. I want to publicly thank many of you who have reached out with your support and prayers. It has been a long journey for my family and me. I want to publicly thank them for their unwavering love. I also want to thank Mayor Joy Adams who has worked tirelessly for our residents. Special thanks the Vice Mayor, commission and staff for their warm welcome back. There is plenty of work to be done and issues to resolve.

The most important issue to be tackled in my opinion is union negotiations. Hallandale Beach Fire Department’s contract has been settled and the Police Department still does not have a contract after two years.

The past year there has been critical pension changes due to a legal battle between our city and the Police and Fire Pension Board. This is one of the main reasons our residents received an increased tax rate. Before elaborating I want to share some history.

Over five years ago former City Manager Renee Miller and the commission went through arduous negotiations to address long term pension liabilities.

During those negotiations the city and both unions negotiated a pension cap and a two-tear pension for Police and Fire.

New Year’s From Page 1A in terms of handling the transition from being a student to being an adult and having a career.

What are you going to do to accomplish them?

I’ve been seeing my therapist and she’s been giving me tasks to help me out. I’ve also applied to be a volunteer at a children’s hospital. I’m looking at possibly shadowing a doctor because I want to be a physician’s assistant and it would help me out.

Z.V, 44, Realtor What are your New Year’s resolutions?

I want to expand my real estate business and I also want to get physically fit.

Why did you choose these resolutions?

I picked these because they require hard work and dedication.

New hires to both departments would start with a brandnew set of rules that are more in tune with today’s financial realities. The existing employees would by law have their existing benefits frozen. State law does not allow the reduction in pension benefit earned for existing retires or those in the DROP. The DROP is where employees agree to retire early but remain in service until they have reached their retirement year. For existing employees’ pension reform included an earnings cap not to exceed 85,000 dollars annually.

Through future negotiations the cap could be increased with 8 cost of living adjustments based on CPI. This contract allowed for stable pension costs for future years. This negotiation was open and fair. The unions had different ideas and after elections soon pressured the Pension Board to make changes.

I was following this issue closely but due to my suspension could not get involved with any city business. In my opinion the Pension Board made changes that were illegal based on their own interpretation of the contract. This did warrant legal action by the city.

I understand the Pension Board and City ended up in litigation. The commission, due to the rules of engagement are unable to discuss any litigation until it is concluded. This move

pushed contract negotiation and litigation together.

The result was the transfer of our Fire Department to Broward County Sheriff’s Office. The public premise was that it would mean cost savings to the city and a better level of service to our citizens. In my opinion it has exacerbated the existing costs and now these costs have been combined with paying BSO to run our department. Based on my experience and involvement with public safety our level of service helped our Police become accredited and Fire Department rated a Class 1. It was not until the immediate past city manager and commission that they stopped filling vacancies.

The proof of these negative impacts has already been seen during this past budget. Pension costs last year resulted in a 13million-dollar contribution from the city even though the stock market has been performing well over the past years.

It needs to be made abundantly clear that our Public Safety Employees put their lives on the line daily for our residents and deserve knowing that when they retire, they have a secured pension. The questions become; What that pension benefit should look like? At what expense to our residents? What impacts to our operations budget?

I did my best to encourage

expand my creativity and delve deeper into my career, as well as improve my health.

mom and it is even more difficult spending important time with your kid because you have work and other engagements. I want to eat healthier, and have less sweets.

Why did you choose these resolutions?

I chose them because they’re the most important things to me right now. I know that they’ll make me a better person.

What are you going to do to accomplish them?

Stay on track with my fitness, work on school, creativity, and work. I’ll also network to get my name out there.

Alfredo, 30, Police Officer What are your New Year’s resolutions?

I want to focus on my career, get stronger and more defined.

I’m trying to finish working on a project car.

Why did you choose these resolutions?

Part of me trying to get more fit is that I want to join the SWAT team. As far as my car goes, I’ve been working on it on a long time and I really want to finish it.

Why did you choose these resolutions?

It’s something I haven’t been able to accomplish over the last year. My kids are bigger now and I realize that spending time with them is really important now that they’re a little older. As far as eating healthier goes, I want to have a healthier physique and feel better.

What are you going to do to accomplish them?

Before the year ends, I’ll sit down and come up with an action plan. I need to block schedule my day so that I make the time for my kids. When I stick to a schedule, I’ll be able to make the appropriate time for my kids. I need to also meal prep more. Time management is the most important thing I need to focus on.

What are you going to do to accomplish them?

For my real estate business, I am going to create a business plan with goals in place. I am also going to create a physically fit plan. In order to achieve that I am going to show up and be consistent.

What are you going to do to accomplish them?

I’m going to hit the gym a lot harder and be a lot more disciplined as far as my diet. I’m also going to spend more time working on my car. I just need to be more disciplined.

Maria, 32, County Clerk What are your New Year’s resolutions?

To improve my finances, save money and not use credit cards.

I also want to work on nutrition. I need to eat better and healthier due to health problems that can occur.

Maria, 24, Marketing Director What are your New Year’s resolutions?

I’d just like to be better than how I am today. I’d also like to

Tatiana, 38, Property Manager What are your New Year’s resolutions?

I want to spend more time with my kids. It’s hard being a

Why did you choose these resolutions?

I want to be able to save more money since recently I bought a new pre-construction home and

the commission to put the transition to BSO on hold until we can resolve the Police side of the equation and address pension costs in a different manor. There was one positive from the negotiations/ligation our employees now can move their existing pension to the Florida Retirement System (FRS). This helps with new hires but also puts stress on the existing pension. I need to note General Employees and Management now have this ability, too.

Commissioner Butler was the lone dissenting vote when this transfer was passed. He did second my motion to discuss. We had a robust discussion where I laid out a plan to contain our annul pension payment. A motion did pass directing staff to evaluate the concept of borrowing at today’s low interest rate to fund the pension and smooth out and reduce our annual contributions. Other cities have done this. The motion to delay the there are lots of updates that need to be made. I recently was informed by my doctor about how my body produces excess amounts of insulin in which I can easily become diabetic. My family has a history of different illnesses and the main one is diabetes. I need to be careful with what food I intake to take care of my health and prevent undesired future illnesses.

What are you going to do to accomplish them?

I’ll set aside money for the items needed ahead of times and organized myself and get in the habit of buying necessary not unnecessary items. Cut off fatty foods especially Cuban food that’s not healthy and has a lot of grease. Cuban food is cooked every day at my house and yes, it is very delicious, but unhealthy, therefore I need to avoid it. Also, I’ll limit myself on going out to different restaurants. No sugar or sweets. I’ll have less café con leche and crackers since they are my weakness. I need to eat more vegetables and greens.

Kevin, 30, Truck Driver What are your New Year’s resolutions?

I want to help develop the business my father and I have been working on.

Why did you choose these resolutions?

As of right now this is the most important thing to me.

What are you going to do to accomplish them?

Come up with a game plan

and be more organized, as well as be more efficient with my time.

Daniella, 20, Student What are your New Year’s resolutions?

I want to go to Europe and learn a new language, and I want to start a hardcore band.

Why did you choose these resolutions?

Because I don’t prioritize these things enough and for the new decade I should.

What are you going to do to accomplish them?

I’m going to better manage my money, make sure I make smart decisions, and I’ll make more time for them. Personal things never get enough of my time and now is the time for me to do that.

While the New Year is a notoriously great time to celebrate and have a party, it’s also an important time for us to prioritize and look towards our future. While we spend time with our families and enjoy the finale of another memorable year, let us reminisce on all that we have done and prepare for another year that is sure to bring many more blessings and memories.

We hope that our interviewees succeed in the accomplishment of their goals, and we also hope that you all succeed as well. We look forward to another great year, and the beginning of an even greater decade.

A-SECTION

southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019 Page 5A

A-SECTION

Page 6A southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019

(R) Ellie Levy (L) The inspiration behind the “Dirty Socks” event was Ellie’s surgeon (Gustavo), who told her in order to survive her lung transplant, she would have to walk. Despite the pain, Ellie walked and walked and walked, often exceeding her surgeon’s expectations and to prove her hard work, Gustavo wanted to see the bottom of her socks. If they were dirty, she was doing what was told.

Ellie’s Army From Page 1A hurting - and it affected all of them in a way that many of us could ever understand. During Ellie’s many hospitalizations, Stacey and Brian Levy began to meet far too many parents struggling to keep their children alive due to limited financial resources.

This is something that many in this nation never have the chance to see - and convey it to those who may one day do something about a parent who can’t afford to pay for life-saving medications because they have no money for copayments, or for crucial nutritional supplements or necessary therapies, because they were not covered by insurance. Parents should not have to choose between keeping their child alive and paying their electric or mortgage/rent bills. So, in 2001, in response to what they saw and watch others endure, the Levy’s created the Reach for the Stars Foundation in 2001 to benefit individuals with CF.

Fourteen years later, in March of 2014, Ellie was 22 years old and suffering from the end stages of cystic fibrosis. She received a double-lung transplant, but within a week, her new lungs were failing and she was re-listed for another set of lungs.

Against all odds, she endured a second transplant on April 15th.

During her recovery, Ellie met another young woman who also needed a lung transplant, but was unable to meet the financial criteria to be accepted into the transplant program. In that moment, Ellie decided that when she was well, she would focus her efforts on providing other young people with the monies necessary to stay alive.

Sadly, on November 5th, 2014, Ellie Levy passed away. In her honor, the memory of Ellie Levy indeed lives on - as her foundation name was changed to Ellie’s Army Foundation in 2017. The foundation has expanded its mission to assist not only those afflicted with cystic fibrosis, but children and young adults suffering from all critical illnesses.

2nd Annual Dirty Socks 5K Run & Walkathon - January 19 This is an event that many have rallied around. By taking part - as a runner/walker - or just making a donation - you are helping those who cannot afford treatment that will save lives.

Kathy Smith of Sunny Isles Beach fully understands that support that is needed - financially and emotionally. Her youngest sister lost a child to CF, and the things they saw made them cry - daily.

“I know why the Levy’s continue to do this - even after the tragic loss of their child,” she said. “When my niece was in the hospital, we saw so many people who could not pay for treatments for a child - to at least make their time more comfortable. It tears away at you so bad.”

In addition to this fundraiser, Ellie’s Army Foundation assists with: Medical Assistance: They help pay for medical bills and insurance co-pays, therapies (i.e. respiratory, physical, occupational), nutritional supplements, and

additional medical costs associated with a child or young adult’s specific needs.

Emergency Expenses: Ellie’s Army Foundation also helps pay for mortgage, rent and utility bills in an effort to alleviate financial stress for families and provide a safe place for critically-ill children and young adults. Other items they cover include food, clothing, fund relocation and individual emergency expenses as they arise.

Transplants: In order for many patients to be accepted into a transplant program, they are required to show proof that they have thousands of dollars in liquid assets. They provide these funds in order for children to have access to these life-saving transplants.

Ellie’s Army Foundation always seeks to be as transparent about what your donations are applied to, and primarily spend their funds directly on helping those who need it the most.

Why Dirty Socks?

The inspiration behind the

“Dirty Socks” event was Ellie’s surgeon (Gustavo), who told her in order to survive her lung transplant, she would have to walk.

Despite the pain, Ellie walked and walked and walked, often exceeding her surgeon’s expectations - and to prove her hard work, Gustavo wanted to see the bottom of her socks. If they were dirty, she was doing what was told.

“Ellie gave her surgeon a bag with her dirty socks in it. He said that he will keep her socks in his office for the rest of his life. Ellie inspired him with her determination, her desire to live and her fight.”

By taking part in the Dirty Socks 5K & Walkathon, you are walking for those who fight the fight every day - and paying tribute to Ellie Levy, who helped to bring awareness to a disease that many knew nothing about.

Ellie’s Army Foundation elliesarmy.org 1051 NE 93rd Street Miami Shores, FL 33138 Phone: (305) 756-0068 Fax: (305) 861-0744

Anti-Semitism From Page 1A hourly prize giveaway, will begin at 2:30pm, and conclude with a grand Menorah Lighting at 5:30.

The $12 wristband includes unlimited: Laser Tag, Rides, Popcorn, Bounce Houses, Face Painting & Balloon Art. There will also be optional activities like Chanukah candle making and arts & crafts.

While public menorah lightings have been — and continue to be — an integral part of the holiday, this year, an increased number of community members have shared that they will be joining public menorah lightings to express their Jewish pride.

Lenny Bernstein is a parent of a kindergarten child in the community, who is planning to attend the public celebration for the first time despite his initial discomfort with expressing his Jewish identity so publicly and openly.

“They want us to be afraid - to fear proudly proclaiming our Jewish identity,” he said. “I usually just light the menorah at home, but with all the antiSemitism we are witnessing around us, I’m also going to join

Christmas From Page 1A preacher, teacher, radical and prophet—was born into a police state not unlike the growing menace of the American police state. When he grew up, he had powerful, profound things to say, things that would change how we view people, alter government policies and change the world. “Blessed are the merciful,” “Blessed are the peacemakers,” and “Love your enemies” are just a few examples of his most profound and revolutionary teachings.

When confronted by those in authority, Jesus did not shy away from speaking truth to power.

Indeed, his teachings undermined the political and religious establishment of his day. It cost him his life. He was eventually crucified as a warning to others not to challenge the powers-thatbe.

Can you imagine what Jesus’ life would have been like if, instead of being born into the Roman police state, he had been born and raised in the American police state?

Consider the following if you

Families enjoy South Florida Chanukah Street Fair. The December 26th Free Event Includes Roaming Entertainment, Circus Shows, Live Performances, Food Court, Holiday Boutique, Hourly-Prize Giveaway & Grand Menorah Lighting! the public menorah lighting because I think this is the most effective thing we can do to fight evil. We need to be taking it head on.” To find a local event here in Florida, or anywhere throughout the world, visit the international Chanukah event directory at ChabadChayil.org/Chanukah.

Large display Menorahs are available at many online sources

and can still get to you in time for the holiday. If you need a menorah or candles for yourself, or need any help celebrating the holiday or finding a large Menorah to display at your place of work, please call your local Chabad or my office at (305) 770-1919. We can also help you plan your own Chanukah event, Menorah lighting or Latke party.

We wish you and your family a very happy Chaunkah. May our days be filled with light, warmth, joy and positive energy, and always increasing, just like the Menorah lights that increase with each day.

will.

Had Jesus been born in the era of the America police state, rather than traveling to Bethlehem for a census, Jesus’ parents would have been mailed a 28-page American Community Survey, a mandatory government questionnaire documenting their habits, household inhabitants, work schedule, how many toilets are in your home, etc.

Instead of being born in a manger, Jesus might have been born at home. Rather than wise men and shepherds bringing gifts, however, the baby’s parents might have been forced to ward off visits from state social workers intent on prosecuting them for the home birth.

Had Jesus been born in a hospital, his blood and DNA would have been taken without his parents’ knowledge or consent and entered into a government biobank. Then again, had Jesus’ parents been undocumented immigrants, they and the newborn baby might have been shuffled to a profit-driven, private prison for illegals where they first would have been separated from each other, the children detained in make-shift cages.

Rather than disappearing from

the history books from his early years to adulthood, Jesus’ movements and personal data— including his biometrics—would have been documented, tracked, monitored and filed by governmental agencies and corporations such as Google and Microsoft.

From the moment Jesus made contact with an “extremist” such as John the Baptist, he would have been flagged for surveillance because of his association with a prominent activist, peaceful or otherwise.

Jesus’ anti-government views would certainly have resulted in him being labeled a domestic extremist by law enforcement agencies.

Rather than being permitted to live as an itinerant preacher, Jesus might have found himself threatened with arrest for daring to live off the grid or sleeping outside. Viewed by the government as a dissident and a potential threat to its power, Jesus might have had government spies planted among his followers to monitor his activities, report on his movements, and entrap him into breaking the law.

Had Jesus attempted to feed large crowds of people, he would

have been threatened with arrest for violating various ordinances prohibiting the distribution of food without a permit.

Had Jesus spoken publicly about his 40 days in the desert and his conversations with the devil, he might have been labeled mentally ill and detained in a psych ward against his will for a mandatory involuntary psychiatric hold with no access to family or friends.

Had Jesus attempted to overturn tables in a Jewish temple, he would have been charged with a hate crime.

Rather than having armed guards capture Jesus in a public place, government officials would have ordered that a SWAT team carry out a raid on Jesus and his followers, complete with flash-bang grenades and military equipment.

Instead of being detained by Roman guards, Jesus might have been made to “disappear” into a secret government detention center where he would have been interrogated, tortured and subjected to all manner of abuses. Charged with treason and labeled a domestic terrorist, Jesus might have been sentenced to a life-term in a private

To join us for the annual beautiful Street Fair call (305) 770-1919 or visit ChabadChayil.org/fair.

About the author Rabbi Kievman is the ambassador of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. He’s founder of CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools, rabbi at The Family Shul & together with his wife directs Chabad Chayil. He can be reached at (305) 770-1919 or rabbi@ChabadChayil.org prison where he would have been forced to provide slave labor for corporations or put to death by way of the electric chair or a lethal mixture of drugs.

Indeed, as I show in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People, given the nature of government then and now, it is painfully evident that whether Jesus had been born in our modern age or his own, he still would have died at the hands of a police state.

Thus, as we draw near to Christmas with its celebrations and gift-giving, we would do well to remember that what happened on that starry night in Bethlehem is only part of the story. That baby in the manger grew up to be a man who did not turn away from evil but instead spoke out against it, and we must do no less.

About the author: 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. He is founder and president of The Rutherford Institute. Whitehead can be contacted at johnw@ rutherford.org.

A-SECTION

southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019 Page 7A

Pet Palooza and Much More: At the ArtsPark in Downtown Hollywood The week ahead is full of family fun at the ArtsPark at Young Circle.

Check out these events coming up after the holidays and make plans to enjoy your week in Downtown Hollywood.

Pet Palooza at the ArtsPark in Hollywood Saturday, January 11 Bring your four-legged friends for a day full of free fun at ArtsPark at Young Circle in Downtown Hollywood. Pet lovers are encouraged to walk through the park to visit with other pet owners and local pet vendors on Saturday, January 11th from 1 to 5 p.m. Pet specialists will be on hand offering pet grooming and care tips, as well as giveaway opportunities and several rescue organizations will have furry friends available for adoption.

Visit With Local Vendors: Broward County Animal Care and Adoption, Evolutionary Dog Training, Good Karma Pet Rescue, Pets For Vets, Abandoned, Pet Rescue, Augie’s Pet Supply, Pet Central Adoption, GTS Husky Rescue, We Love Animals Rescue, Cat Crusade Rescue, Angelica Cat Rescue/Fetch Pet Care Services, Grateful Paws Dog and Cats, Animal Rescue Force, Pit Bull T Shirt, H.A.R.T. (Hollywood Animal Care Rescue Team), and Cobra Joe’s classic cars.

Pet Palooza is free and all pet owners with leashed, licensed and wellbehaved pets are welcome. For more information, please call 954.921.3500. ArtsPark at Young Circle is located in Downtown Hollywood at US 1 and Hollywood Boulevard.

Coming up after the holidays...

Dream Car Classic Sunday, January 5 On Sunday, January 5th, the monthly Downtown Hollywood Dream Car Classic takes place along Hollywood Boulevard between 19th and 20th Avenues from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Dream Car Classic features dozens of classic cars, trucks and other one-of-a-kind vehicles on display. There will be a special appearance by International Face Art artistic face painting and glitter tattoos!

Attendance is free. There is a $20 charge for those who wish to have their vehicles on display.

To pre-register for the Dream Car Classic, email Joe Bevelacqua at jbevsr@msn.com and include your vehicle’s make and model. Vehicles will also be registered the morning of the show as space permits.

Participation is limited to 85 vehicles with awards for the Top 30 vehicles and the People’s Choice Award. For more information on the Dream Car Classic, please call 954.825.1027.

Funtastic Friday Friday, January 10 Funtastic Friday is a

weekly event at the running-races/flipany-s- with speakers Valerie ArtsPark at Young Circle in 15th-anniversary-5k-10k- Panciera and Kevin Rieth, Downtown Hollywood fea- run-walk-2020 3rd generation owners. turing a rocking DJ spinning the tunes while kids kick-off their shoes and bounce the night away in inflatable bounce houses. Kids can also take part in guided activities including games and arts and crafts projects. Funtastic Pet Palooza at the ArtsPark in Hollywood Saturday, January 11 Friday is free and runs from 5 to 8 p.m. each Friday at the Hollywood Historical Society The lecture will take place ArtsPark at Young Circle, 2020 Lecture Series on 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the located at US-1 and They Have Gone so Far West Stirling Road Branch Hollywood Boulevard, Sunday, January 12 Library at 3151 Stirling weather permitting.

The Hollywood Road.

Historical Society will preFriends of T.Y. Park sent a free lecture on the ePermitOneStop Ribbon Jazz in the Park history of Valerie Tying Celebration Friday, January 10 Panciera’s Landmark Tuesday, January 14 The Friends of TY Park, Funeral Home, since 1962 All are invited to join the Inc. is pleased to offer a free Jazz in the Park concert on Friday, January 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pavilion 12 at TY Park. The Broward College Big Band will be performing the music of Count Basie and other Jazz Classics. Food trucks will be available.

Full Moon Drum Circle Friday, January 10 Bring your percussion instrument to join in the Full Moon Drum Circle at ArtsPark at Young Circle in Downtown Hollywood on Friday, January 10th from 7 to 9 p.m. All skill levels are welcome to participate in this free, guided drum circle in the ArtsPark Palm Court area on the west side of the park at US-1 and Hollywood Boulevard.

FLIPANY’s 15th Anniversary 5K/10K Run/Walk Saturday, January 11 Join FLIPANY at the 15th Annual Fun Run (5k/ 10k Run/Walk) and help them achieve their mission of empowering children, youth and adults through physical activity & nutrition programs. The FLIPANY Fun Run challenges participants of all ages to a 5K/lOK run/walk, as well as providing access to local health and wellness vendors, free kids activities, and a silent auction /raffle.

This is a great opportunity for the community to show support for FLIPANY and their mission to empower youth and adults through nutrition and physical activity programs while influencing policy changes for healthier communities.

For Sponsorship Opportunities please contact: Angie Rodriguez at 617.259.4696 or email at arodriguez@flipany.org at Hollywood North Beach Park at 3601 N Ocean Drive Time: 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Registration 6 a.m. - 7:45 a.m.

10 K Run Begins 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.

5K Run Begins 7:45 a.m. - 9 a.m Kids’ Zone 8 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Post-Race Breakfast 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Cost to participate $15-$35 For more information, visit www.active.com/holly wood-fl/running/distance-

City of Hollywood and Broward County for a Ribbon Tying Celebration

and receive approval for both Hollywood building permits and associated

to launch the new ePermitOneStop online service. ePermitsOneStop is a centralized website that allows customers to submit their application and have their plans reviewed online for permits, licenses and approvals. Customers will now be able to apply for

Broward County permits in a quicker, more seamless process, eliminating the need to travel to Broward’s Government Center West in Plantation. 9 a.m.-10 a.m. at City Hall, 2nd Floor Lobby at 2600 Hollywood Boulevard.

Page 8A southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019

A-SECTION

SOUTH FLORIDA SUN TIMES

southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019 Page 1B

LIFESTYLE Each state’s most-searched-for holiday movie

By Trevor Wheelwright

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for staying home to watch movies, so HowtoWatch.com found out which holiday classic each state’s looking to hunker down with this holiday season.

Do you line up with your state’s favorite festive flick?

There’s something fulfilling about gorging yourself on stocking candy, wearing your cozy new sweater, and plopping down with some eggnog to watch a magical, merry movie.

For some folks, it’s not truly the holidays until they watch Ralphie shoot his eye out or Jack Skellington discover Santa’s workshop in the North Pole.

So what did we learn about the United States and its favorite frosty films?

Home Alone took the most states this year for search dominance, but it’s mostly an east-of-the-Mississippi victory.

Maybe Macaulay Culkin can migrate out west during winter to avoid his seasonal photo-op crowds. The next most popular film by state, Die Hard, may not conjure up the warm, cuddly Christmas vibes you think of with other classics, but it’s a perennial favorite for its one-liners, iconic imagery, and non-stop action.

Gremlins is a huge hit in the southern and swampy states.

Maybe they’re used to creepy creatures, like the grinning gators in Florida or party possums in Arkansas. The Southwest and West show their love for The Nightmare Before Christmas with Arizona, Nevada, California, and New Mexico all searching for it more than other holiday movies.

The love for other holiday classics is pretty scattered.

(T) HowtoWatch.com found out which holiday classic each state’s looking to hunker down with this holiday season.

(L) Home Alone took the most states this year for search dominance, but it’s mostly an east-of-the-Mississippi victory.

(R) Gremlins is a huge hit in the southern and swampy states.

People in Hawaii and Vermont can bond over their love for Elf, while folks in Alaska and Delaware both wish for a White Christmas.

What holiday happenings or cultural cinematic commonalities do you see in our movie map?

How we ranked the movies To determine each state’s favorite holiday film, our team of analysts made a list of the top 25 most popular holiday films by

cross-referencing multiple “best of” film lists and pared it down using ratings and popularity.

We analyzed the 25 most popular titles using Google Trends data to discover which films people in your state showed the most interest in over the past twelve months.

Here are the top 25 holiday films that we chose to highlight in this piece: Home Alone (1990), Die Hard

(1988), Gremlins (1984), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), Black Christmas (1974), Elf (2003), It’s a Wonderful Life (1946), White Christmas (1954), A Christmas Carol (1938), Love Actually (2003), How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) Meet Me in St. Louis (1944), Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987), Polar Express (2004), The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992), Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964), The Holiday

(2006), National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989), Christmas, Again (2014), Miracle on 34th Street (1947), Bad Santa (2003), A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965), A Christmas Story (1983), The Santa Clause (1994), and How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000). Of this list, seventeen ended up being a state’s most searched Christmas movie on Google.

So, what are you planning on watching?

LIFESTYLE

Page 2B southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019

Hollywood, Hallandale Beach & Aventura: Volunteers Honored By The Broward Center The Broward Center for the Performing Arts recently held its 29th Annual Volunteer Recognition Awards and Dinner, presented by Florida Blue, which paid tribute to the nearly 800 volunteers who donated 130,000 hours of community service during the past season to the Broward Center and its affiliate venues. More than 500 volunteers attended an appreciation dinner and were entertained with a program featuring performances by a cast member of Slow Burn Theatre Company’s Shrek The Musical, the Broward Center Spotlights youth vocal ensemble, talented staff from the Broward Center and more. The event was sponsored by Florida Blue who greeted the guests in the lobby.

Doug Bartel, Senior Director of Business Development, Media and External Relations of Florida Blue, addressed the volunteers from the stage.

“Our world-class Broward Center is celebrating another incredible year of inspiring and entertaining the community, which would not be possible without the army of amazing volunteers who work behind-thescenes for each event,” said Bartel. “Florida Blue is incredibly proud to celebrate those volunteers and their efforts, and to work with the Broward Center in engaging audiences.”

Plantation resident Aven Roberts was recognized as the 2018-19 “Volunteer of the Year” for donating 2,199 hours during the season, which was the most by any volunteer. The prize package included tickets to a Broadway in Fort Lauderdale performance, a dinner gift certificate to Marti’s New River Bistro and gift basket filled with wine, snacks and Broadway show souvenirs. She will also receive a commemorative brick on the Riverwalk. Also recognized and awarded were Plantation resident Karen Greer who contributed 1,064 hours and Davie resident Karen Uris who donated 922 hours of volunteer time.

The Broward Center also recognized 47 volunteers who were

Miami resident Marlene Guyton, Tamarac resident Bobbi Morgan and Hallandale resident Irene Luis

Aventura resident Kimberly Herman applauded for service of 10 years or more, and received their gold badge signifying this level of service and tickets to a show.

Two volunteers were honored for their 20-year milestone of volunteering with a gold badge and tickets to a show.

Volunteers usher and serve as community ambassadors for the Broward Center and its affiliate venues: Parker Playhouse, the Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center at Nova Southeastern University and the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center.

Hollywood residents Jean and Tony Dorto Volunteers commit to a regular weekly shift (choosing a regular evening or matinee) for the full season. The Broward Center volunteer ushers are a dynamic mix of theater-lovers, from retired seniors and baby boomers to high school students, many of whom earn community service hours and volunteer alongside a parent or grandparent.

Volunteers are eligible to begin ushering performances upon completion of a three-hour orientation session that includes a tour of the Broward Center and

an introduction to ushering. For more information, contact the volunteer office at 954.468.2684 or e-mail volunteer@browardcenter .org.

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located in the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District at 201 SW Fifth Avenue in Fort Lauderdale.

For more information visit BrowardCenter.org, like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/ BrowardCenter and Facebook .com/BrowardCenter Education, follow us on Twitter and

Instagram @BrowardCenter, subscribe to our channel at Youtube.com/user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with #BrowardCenter.

The Broward Center 20192020 season is presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Bank of America, Brightline, Canteen, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, JetBlue, MasterCard and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center are proud sponsors of the Broward Center.

LIFESTYLE

southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019 Page 3B

The Musical Little Black Dress Comes To The Broward Center The Broward Center for the Performing Arts brings two performances of Little Black Dress to the Amaturo Theater on Friday, January 10 and Saturday, January 11 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now.Little Black Dress is a musical that tells the story of best friends Mandy and Dee. Using hilarious improv, catchy songs and a heartfelt story, Little Black Dress has made audiences across the globe laugh, cry and party as they witness the girls’ major life

events in their little black dresses including the first job interview, first date, first awkward sexual experience, which happens more than once, first funeral and more.

After being on tour for nearly three years with Spank! The Fifty Shades of Grey Parody, writers Danielle Trzcinski and Amanda Barker saw an audience they never knew existed. That audience was thousands of women who wanted to go to the theater not just to see a show, but to have an unforgettable expe-

rience. Together with Mean Girls Tony Award® - nominated vocal arranger Natalie Tenenbaum and Disenchanted’s National Tour Director Christopher Bond, Trzcinski and Barker wrote a hilarious and heartfelt musical about the power of female friendships.

Tickets are $29 – $49.

Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center, Parker Playhouse and affiliated venues. Buy tickets online at BrowardCenter.org or

Ticketmaster.com; by phone at 954.462.0222 or the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office.

Know who you are buying from when you purchase tickets.

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located in the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District at 201 SW Fifth Avenue in Fort Lauderdale.

For more information visit BrowardCenter.org, like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/ BrowardCenter, follow us on Twitter and Instagram

@BrowardCenter, subscribe to our channel at Youtube.com/ user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with #BrowardCenter. The Broward Center 2019-2020 season is presented by the Broward Performing Arts Foun-dation. Auto Nation, Bank of America, Brightline, Canteen, Greater Fort Lauderdale Con-vention and Visitors Bureau, JetBlue, Master Card and Sylves-ter Comprehensive Cancer Cen-ter are proud sponsors of the Broward Center.

Science Versus Magic? The City of Aventura Presents Two Smart Stage Matinee Performances The City of Aventura presents Smart Stage Matinee performances of Steve Trash ScienceLIVE! on Friday, January 17 at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center.

The show answers the questions: Science versus magic?

What is science? What’s the scientific method? Students will

learn this and more with the curriculum focused science questions in this new rockin’ good show from Steve Trash.

Based on his successful PBS Kids TV science show, Trash uses real science, kid comedy, music and amazing magic tricks to create what many teachers and kids have called “The Best

Field Trip Ever!”

Tickets are $10 with $3 lap seats for children 12 months and under. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center.

Buy tickets online at aventuracenter.org, by phone at 877.311.7469 or 954.462.0222, or in person at the Aventura Arts

& Cultural Center box office Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 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 N.E. 188 Street in Aventura.

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.

Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter

“Cirquesco” Comes to The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center The magical artistry of Cirque du Soleil meets the flirtatious camp of Moulin Rouge to create sheer magic known as Cirquesco on Saturday, January 18 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center.

Critics say the show is: “Captivating,” “Artistry in motion,” “Simply breathtaking.”

Featuring seductive dances and incredible acrobatics that test the limits of the human body, the production is set to an electrifying soundtrack. From the Argentinian tango to the French burlesque, Cirquesco is a breathtaking production featuring state-of-the-art lighting, costuming and choreography.

Tickets are $45-49.

Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at aventuracenter .org, by phone at 877.311.7469 or 954.462.0222, or in person at

the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 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 N.E. 188 Street in Aventura.

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.

Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventura center or #aventuracenter

Don’t Fret: Take The Road Less Traveled

By Sandra A. Miller

“The road less traveled” is an iconic idiom that has bounced around for decades, but sadly, not enough young people are taking it as they head into adulthood.

Paraphrased from a line in the Robert Frost poem, The Road Not Taken, the road less traveled conjures the image of a young person acting independently, freeing themselves from conformity and perhaps making bold choices or even ill-advised, risky ones. It sounds exciting and can lead to spectacular successes – or failures.

Most, of course, prefer the safer path, with a four-year college degree becoming almost cliché as the most secure way to go forward in life. And there are other conventional routes: getting a stable job right out of high school, a training program leading to a career, etc.

Look, college is still a great gateway to your future. It’s one I took and recommend. I teach writing in college now. But what I’m saying is, whatever you do, don’t let societal conformity or expectations, peer pressure, know-it-all professors, parental pressure, or your own fears and insecurity prevent you from taking the road – or several side roads – less traveled.

There cannot possibly be a better way to learn about yourself. Take the scenic route down the dirt path by the creek.

Through the woods, over the mountains. The road less traveled. Follow your heart wherever it leads.

Give yourself a green light Allow me to flash a blinking red light on your safe path as an absolute danger to the quality of your life, your development and potential, and not least of all, to the wealth of your memories.

From the luxury of looking into my own rear-view mirror, I can tell you that being spontaneous, courageous, and zestful can lead to extraordinary experiences that will make your life far richer than it otherwise would be.

Most of us grow up being told what to do by well-meaning parents, or at least guided in some ways. And that’s as it should be, to a degree; on the other end of the spectrum, the overbearing or helicoptering parent snuffs the freedom out of you before it has a chance to breathe once you’re out of the house.

You feel obliged to a life of conformity. But as you teeter on the threshold of your adult life, having this golden chance that will never come again, I want to tell you some things.

First of all, use your voice and be big in the world. Be big and loud and bold.

After 18 years of being told how to think and what to believe in, this is your chance to show who you are and to decide which direction you want to start in.

Don’t feel guilty. Try owning

your voice to reject what doesn’t feel true and right, and then consider what you’re passionate about, what enthralls you. Go for it then; don’t wait to have time for it later. Otherwise, that time might not come as life’s conformities start coming at you in waves – the 9 to 5 job, marriage, children – all before you took the grand opportunity to explore and discover more of yourself.

Don’t worry about choosing wrong. You can change your mind again, and then again.

Live in the moment - and live large.

That’s the incredible thing you don’t realize yet: Life is more fluid than fixed. You get to jump streams, change paths until you find the one that’s singularly yours. And while you’re looking for your path, you can also stress a little less. Getting A’s in college is commendable, sure, but grades aren’t the real stuff of life.

That comes with impromptu adventures and midnight escapades, meeting new people, even messing up a little. These are some of the best years of your hopefully long life, and there’s a lot of fun to be had and things to discover – including yourself.

So, with that, you might think about leaving the library now and then and shedding the nickname “bookworm.” Cram less. Live more. Maybe even crawl into the bell tower and drink beer with your friends.

You do not want to look back with regrets. I had fun in my younger life as an adventurer, but one major event stopped me in my tracks when I was in college and really before I embarked on out-of-the-box choices and the road less traveled.

I was driving home on a dreary December afternoon in the middle of final exams, shortly after getting the call that my father had died. Our relationship had long suffered. I wondered what I could have done differently before losing him, and I would spend decades trying to heal my broken heart.

From the vantage point of midlife, people who suffered similar losses in their distant past can finally see the truth behind the pain. For me, my difficult relationship with my dad was part of my journey, and looking back now, the perpetual ache I felt to connect with him propelled me, led me around the globe to the most magical places.

It led me to Asia to teach. To Europe, where I fell in love with languages. And South America, where I stumbled onto a spiritual path.

Sometimes taking the road less traveled may create the impression you’re running away, but this is all part of your search to find yourself apart from your family. You’re beginning on the edge of adulthood as I did, a shy, 18-year-old worrier, constantly wondering if you are doing the

right thing for your future. The right thing is being you, and the journey is about discovering you.

Whatever road – or roads – you take, don’t worry about wrong turns, and just keep living forwards, not backwards or sideways. You’ll find your way, in part by stumbling into your truths far down the road. Every step, every mistake, every regret and every moment of incalculable joy is essential to this journey you are on.

Sandra A. Miller (www.SandraA Miller.com), author of Trove: A Woman’s Search for Truth and Buried Treasure, teaches writing at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell. She previously worked in the editorial department at NAL/Penguin and later worked as a literary agent. She has written stories, articles and essays that have appeared in hundreds of regional and national publications, including Modern Bride, Glamour, The Boston Globe, The Christian Science Monitor, Yankee, and The Washington Post OnParenting blog. She has facilitated workshops on treasure hunting as a spiritual experience. Miller also has created her own armchair treasure hunt with a custommade jeweled bracelet worth $2,200 as the prize. The bracelet is hidden somewhere in New England, and she will be providing clues through the blog on her website.

SOUTH FLORIDA SUN TIMES

Page 4B southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019

HEALTH Dental Emergencies: When To Seek Immediate Help, When You Can Wait Maybe a tooth broke as you snacked on holiday goodies. Or perhaps you joined a pickup basketball game and an elbow to the mouth knocked out a tooth completely.

Mouth mishaps aren’t that unusual, but how do you know whether such dental predicaments are a minor annoyance or a true emergency?

“In some cases, a couple of days won’t matter and you don’t need to go rushing to your dentist’s office or the emergency room,” says Dr. Jamie Reynolds (www.AskDrReynolds.com), an orthodontist, national and international lecturer, and author of World Class Smiles Made in Detroit.

“But other cases can be serious and you’ll want treatment as quickly as you can get it.”

Reynolds offers examples of tooth or gum-related symptoms you might encounter and whether emergency treatment is warranted: Severe pain with symptoms of infection. An infection can quickly spread, so get treatment immediately, Reynolds says. In the

worst-case scenario, he says, this could lead to sepsis, which can be fatal. Symptoms that indicate the infection has spread include fever, rapid breathing, abnormally high or low blood pressure, and/or confusion.

Symptoms in the mouth include severe pain, swelling in the gums, swelling in the face, bad breath, and pus or fluids coming from the infected area.

pain at home with ice, dental wax, or an over-the-counter painkiller,” he says.

Toothache. Toothaches are no fun. “If the pain is just an annoyance, and you don’t have any other symptoms, you can wait a day or two to see a dentist,” Reynolds says. However, putting off treatment of a sore tooth can lead to serious infection and/or increase the potential need for root canal treatment and tooth loss. If the pain is anything more than mild hot/cold sensitivity, get a dental appointment ASAP.

Tooth knocked out. “If a tooth is knocked out and you want to have any chance of saving it, you need to act immediately,” Reynolds says. The American Association of Endodontists reports that your best bet is to pick up the tooth without touching the exposed root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with water only, and place it back in the socket right away. Hold the tooth in place and keep it moist. If you can’t put it back in the socket, keep it between your cheek and gums, or place it in a cup of milk, the association says. You increase the odds of saving the tooth if you can get to a dentist or endodontist’s office within 30 minutes. If that’s not possible, go to the emergency room.

Soreness from braces. It’s common to experience minor pain after braces have been put on or tightened, and a visit to your dentist or orthodontist shouldn’t be need, Reynolds says. “You should be able to manage the

Chipped or broken tooth. If a tooth becomes chipped or broken, but not knocked out entirely, you’re in better shape, Reynolds says. Yes, you will want to see your dentist as soon as you can, but it’s not an emer-

gency. That means get an appointment as soon as possible, but you don’t need to drop everything and rush to the office.

Bleeding in the mouth. If you have uncontrolled mouth bleeding caused by cuts, seek immediate care, Reynolds says. On the other hand, it’s not uncommon to experience minor bleeding caused by inflamed gums, irritated sores, or minor cuts.

Assuming the bleeding stops on its own, there’s no need for immediate treatment, he says.

CLASSIFIED FOOD SERVICE DIRECTORY

SERVICE DIRECTORY

SERVICE DIRECTORY

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

But mention the bleeding to your dentist at your next appointment.

While these are good guidelines, Reynolds adds this caveat: If you’re uncertain and you can’t get hold of your dentist’s office for advice because it’s after hours, go ahead and seek treatment.

“If nothing else, it will give you peace of mind,” he says. “And you may end up saving your tooth or – in the case of a significant infection – even saving your life.”

To place your Classified Listing in our print and digital publications, please call (954) 458-0635, or email suntimesgraphics@aol.com.

The deadline to place your ad is 5pm every Tuesday.

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

SERVICE DIRECTORY ADS STARTING AT

$

1000

(954) 458-0635 INSTRUCTION AND TUTORING

APARTMENT FOR SALE

INSTRUCTION AND TUTORING

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

SOUTH FLORIDA SUN TIMES LOTS AND ACRES

JOBS WANTED / SITUATION WANTED

APARTMENT FOR RENT

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

LINE ADS Starting at $2000 (954) 458-0635

APARTMENT FOR SALE

southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019 Page 5B

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

APARTMENT FOR SALE

Page 6B southfloridasun.net • facebook.com/sfsuntimes • sfsuntimes@aol.com • (954) 458-0635 • Wednesday, December 25, 2019

BACK PAGE