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“LET’S FACE IT”

Family

Published 12/1/20

“The artist community has not only embraced our mission, but they have also made it their own by creating ‘Let’s Face It’ original art in support of our children and families,” said Mark Dhooge, president and CEO of Kids In Distress and Family Central. “Their works are inspiring and filled with compassion for children and families in need. It is an honor to partner with such a talented and kind group of people. We can all learn a lot from them.”The “Let’s Face It” mask collection was created by South Florida artists Adam Atomik, Apia, Nathan Delinios (Nate Dee), Danie Gomez-Ortigoza, Mario Ruschel Burgoa and Flavio Galvan plus Maria Nepomuceno from Brazil. The mask designs depict artist inspired abstract images, superheroes, thoughtful words and photographs.“Being able to help institutions that care specifically for the well-being of children and families is close to my heart,’’ said Apia, an artist who contributed two mask designs for “Let’s …

Key West Botanical Garden Celebrates 85th Anniversary

Family

Published 10/6/20

The creation of the Garden was a part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “New Deal” program which offered solutions to the country, the states, and to both rural and urban areas.The City of Key West was officially declared insolvent and handed over administrative authority to the State of Florida on July 2nd, 1934. The devastating effects of the Great Depression had hit Paradise hard, with bank closures, loss of much of the cigar industry, the 1932 reduction of the Naval base, loss of much of the sponge beds to disease, and a drying up of the nascent winter tourism business as people everywhere no longer had disposable income to spend on vacation travel. The city's manufacturing establishments fell from 69 in 1919 to 26 in 1929, with the average number of wage earners in manufacturing declining from 2,313 in 1919 to 756 in 1929. More than half the population was on federal relief rolls.Under the auspices of first FERA and then the WPA (the Work Projects …

Key West Tropical Forest awarded Level II Accreditation by ArbNet

Family

Published 9/1/20

The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden were awarded for achieving particular standards of professional practices deemed important for arboreta and botanic gardens. The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program is the only global initiative to officially recognize arboreta at various levels of development, capacity, and professionalism. The Key West Tropical Forest is also now recognized as an accredited arboretum in the Morton Register of Arboreta, a database of the world’s gardens dedicated to woody plants.Upon learning of the award, Mary Chandler, a member of the Garden’s Collection Committee said, “The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is honored to take a place in ArbNet’s accreditation program. Our conservation of Florida Keys and West Indies trees is strengthened by this association with the global community”.Established in 1936, the 15-acre Garden showcases the historical significance of flora that are native to South Florida, …

Deering Estate's Next Phase of Re-Opening

Family

Published 6/17/20

While the Historic House Museums are currently closed, they will be offering limited guided access of the museums. Guided access will be offered daily at 10:30 am, 12:30 pm & 3:00 pm. Please note that all guests, including Deering Estate Foundation members, must register for guided access at the ticket booth upon entry to the park.To ensure the safety of the community, please note that Miami-Dade County Parks' New Normal rules have not changed and still apply. Deering Estate encourages guests to enjoy the day while following health and safety guidelines and protocols which include social distancing, the use of face coverings, and no gatherings of 10 or more people. Deering Estate staff and security continue to monitor these areas to ensure compliance throughout the day. Before your visit, please visit the New Normal Park Rules.You can also take a look at some of the virtual content and special features that Deering Estate has created and shared for you to enjoy!

Virtual Summer Camp for Kids at Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden

Family

Published 6/1/20

The program begins June 15th and is FREE for any child that would like to participate (not limited to Monroe County). Students can discover what makes the Florida Keys environment unique through virtual discovery and exploration interactive activities in math, science experiments, story time and arts and crafts.Register for FREE at Google Classroom by visiting classroom.google.com, click on the plus in the top right corner to join, and search for our code 7sks56p. New sign ups welcome anytime!

MOCA North Miami Hosts Free Virtual Summer Camp Programs

Family

Published 5/20/20

Participants ages 6-13 may join the museum for virtual camps including Studio Arts Camp and Dynamic Design Camp from the comfort of their own home. Campers will be introduced to mixed media, painting, drawing, and textile arts during these fun workshops held via Zoom, and led by professional art instructors. Final projects will be featured in a virtual exhibition on MOCA's website. Complimentary art supplies will be available for pick up at the museum once registration is complete.The Virtual Art Camps will begin the week of June 8th and run through August 14th, alternating every other Tuesday and Thursday, from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. To receive an enrollment packet and to register, participants can email education@mocanomi.org. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis as space is limited.Can’t wait to get started? MOCA North Miami is offering a free sampler on Tuesday, May 26th and Thursday, May 28th on Facebook Live which includes free, fun-at-home art …

Native Plants for Sale at the Key West Tropical Forest

Family

Published 5/7/20

161 species of plants are now available bringing the inventory to more than 2,100 plants in 1 gallon to 10 gallon pots. Many trees and shrubs attract butterflies and birds. Key West Tropical Forest members receive a 15% discount. The Garden is a 501(c) 3 non-profit corporation and all proceeds directly benefit the Garden’s conservation program.Face masks are required and social distancing protocol will be strictly followed.  The Garden is located at 5210 College Road on Stock Island. For more information call 305-296-1504 or visit www.keywest.garden.

MIAMI SEAQUARIUM ALLOWS GUESTS TO SAVE WHILE BENEFITING FLORIDA WILDLIFE

Family

Published 11/7/19

 Through research, education and conservation, Sea to Shore Alliance works to protect threatened marine species such as sea turtles, manatees and whales, and improve the health and productivity of coastal environments for the benefit of people and marine life.“Community involvement is one of our main pillars on which Miami Seaquarium was founded,” said Eric Eimstad, General Manager at Miami Seaquarium. “We are happy this year to bring back this hugely successful program that will raise much needed funds for the threatened Florida manatee, who is at risk from both natural and man-made causes of injury and mortality.”Throughout the month, Miami Seaquarium will continue its dedication to the rehabilitation of manatees - the Park has been providing life-saving medical care to rescued manatees since 1955 - as well as educating the public. Early arrivers at the Sea Lion show will enjoy a special Reef Ranger presentation on manatees and what guests can do to help them. For …

Brightline: Stylish, Speed and Stress-Free

Family

Published 4/2/19

By Daisy CabreraYet traveling isn’t just about the destination, it’s also about the journey getting there. And exploring South Florida has never been easier and more comfortable than now. Since Brightline’s launch last year, savvy passengers – locals and tourists – have relished in effortless express voyages across the counties. We’re talking 30 minutes between locations! Gone are the days of dealing with aggressive drivers, highway congestion, burning gas, paying tolls, and circling for parking.Centrally-located downtown stations are steps away from everything your heart desires: taking in exhibits at the NSU Art Museum, indulging in CityPlace’s premiere shopping, rooting for the Miami Heat at the American Airlines Arena, top-notch dining on historic Clematis Street, discovering local artists during FATVillage’s ArtWalk, and more – all in our tropical backyard. “Traveling by train is safer, more reliable and more …

FLORIDA RESIDENTS DIVE INTO ANIMAL ENCOUNTER DEALS AT MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

Family

Published 3/7/19

Experience Firsthand the Park’s Unique Animal Encounter Programs:Seal Swim - Led by the park’s marine mammal training staff, Miami Seaquarium is the only attraction in the U.S. to offer this exceptional animal encounter. Guests will experience a 15-20 minute swim with harbor seals in the park’s seal exhibit pool. Trainers will personally introduce participants to a seal and receive hugs, kisses, and take part in a fun training session with these inquisitive marine mammals. Prices as low as $80 (plus tax).Dolphin Odyssey - A two-hour experience, which includes feeding, touching and learning about these magnificent animals plus the opportunity for a deep-water interaction with a dolphin. Guests must be at least 52 inches tall to participate in the program. Prices as low as $110 (plus tax).Dolphin Encounter - This program allows guests to wade out into the pool and have a shallow water experience meeting the dolphins. The two-hour program features an educational seminar …

Artistic Ways to Express Your Love

Family

Published 1/30/19

By Petar PetrovIt’s like watching a rom com in the cinema, but amped up and refined. The splendor is grander, the atmosphere more wondrous – everything about a romantic opera oozes magic, which will seep into the energy between two lovebirds. It’s also an extra reason to dress up and relish some fancy vibes. A date at the museum, especially if you’re playing hooky from work, is an original way to start off the romantic day. Study up on the romantic paintings beforehand and take on the role of a personal guide, seamlessly enchanting your beloved with the mysterious stories of love and tragedy. Knowledge of art can be very sexy. This is a lovely gift. It’s not only very personal, but also a testament to your two personalities and destinies intertwining into one beautiful moment in time. And the directions you can give the artist can be as eclectic as the moments you’ve shared together. The painting can be strictly romantic, cheesy, or serious and imbued with a more …

Fables and Fairytales

Family

Published 6/7/18

This summer Flamingo Gardens will host the US premier of a Borowski Glass Studio botanical garden exhibition from May 26 to September 3, 2018. Presented by Oggetti, Borowski’s US partner, the exhibition features over 70 imaginative works of art in glass and metal in installations throughout Flamingo Gardens this summer. Entitled “Fables and Fairytales” the colorful light objects and sculptures are reminiscent of mythical creatures from beloved fables and fairytales. Stanislaw Borowski was born in Moutiers, France in 1944. He became internationally known for his unique engravings and glass sculptures. Together with his two eldest sons, Pawel and Wiktor, he founded the Glassstudio Borowski in 1990, and was later joined by his youngest son Stani Jan. Their elaborately crafted masterpieces can be found in notable galleries, museums, and collections around the world. Borowski’s art glass has been featured in many European gardens, but this will be the first botanical garden …

THE GRAND HISTORIC HOMES OF FLORIDA

Family

Published 5/2/18

Historic homes have the charm and and the tale of history of their era. Not only do they give us a glimpse to the past, they shed light on who the owners were and their contribution to society. A tour of a historic home is intimate and moving. Florida has many opportunities for such experiences.Being a reflection of its original owner James Deering’s passion for different historical periods, Villa Vizcaya is a like an imposing snow globe, filled with culture, art, Biscayne Bay’s turquoise backdrop and Coconut Grove’s tropical landscape instead of snow. In that spirit, every room was designed around a different piece of furniture, paneling or architectural element. The villa was never conceived as just a house – with Deering’s money and artistic director Paul Chalfin’s imagination and flair, Villa Vizcaya was a visionary and highly ambitious project from the get-go, which took over a decade to become reality, from 1910 to 1922. The first time Deering …

Tips on Traveling Like a Pro

Family

Published 4/2/18

“Live in the moment”, “Go with the flow”, and a bunch of other Facebook pearls of wisdom have convinced people that life needs a slogan in order to be experienced. The truth of the matter is that being spontaneous can be difficult when you have no idea how to get to your hotel or how to take the bus. Being overly adventurous can ironically prevent you from making the most of your escapade and cost you many of those precious moments, not to mention dollars.Learning some basic words and phrases in the local language can separate you from the packs of ignorant tourists locals are often sick of. Opening up with something like “Excuse me. Can I ask you a question, please?” in a broken language is an endearing attempt that brings down barriers – not so much language ones, because you’ll still need an answer in English, but at least the human and cultural ones. It’s the gesture the counts.Whether you like planning or not, history is definitely the fun kind of holiday …

Key West’s Subtropical Botanical Garden

Family

Published 4/2/18

The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is the only "subtropical, frost-free" botanical garden in the continental United States, a tropical environment with ample rain that allows most trees to retain their leaves in the dry season (December through late May). It is home to many endangered and threatened flora and fauna. Unlike traditional botanical gardens, this garden advocates the education and protection of native plants and wildlife species in a natural conservation habitat. Tropical forests of the world hold at least half of all the variety of life on Earth. Moreover, the species found within the Caribbean are among the richest in plant and animal life on the planet. Celebrating 82 years in 2018, this garden is a special place where you can appreciate biodiversity and learn more about its importance. For instance, the forest has two of the last remaining fresh water ponds in the Keys and is a major migratory stopping point for neo-tropical birds from places as …

Art Basilando Hits the Home Show

Family

Published 8/25/17

September 1 - 4“Art Basilando” depicts the colorful souls of twelve Little Havana artist who, through different styles and textures, create a cohesive trajectory of heritage, history and artistic expression. The viewer is bedazzled by color and bold imagery, but should look deeper into the artist’s canvas. Unfold the dichotomy of an artist’s soul: worlds past and present; elation and deep sadness; surreal and real; darkness and light.Participating artists include: Katey Penner, Santos Mendez, Didi Marchi, Gonzalo Borges, Annie M., Diana Contreras, Phil Avello, Mildrey Guillot, Eliott Prada, Giselle Fajardo, Mayomelz (Mel Pichardo), Omar Corrales Mora. The showcase is curated by Pati Vargas, Director of Viernes Culturales.“We are very proud to have participated in At Home with Art since its launch in 2015,” states Pati Vargas. “Basilando is of course, a play on words. However, it defines what I think makes Miami’s art community very unique: we are out on the streets …

FLORIDA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL CELEBRATES MILESTONE 25TH SEASON IN 2017

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Published 1/10/17

February 11 – March 26, 2017 …

Winter Brings a TOUR de Force to South Florida

Family

Published 10/28/16

But there are also plenty of great tours in the area that are not only educational and culturally enriching, but a lot of fun to share with friends, family, and that special someone. Whether you’re interested in biking, cruising down celebrated waterways, or strolling through historic districts, AroundTown has you covered on land and sea. So take a look at the tour highlights we’ve selected and experience culture your way by planning that perfect outing for a gorgeous day! …

Summer Camps: They’re Not Just for Outdoors Anymore

Family

Published 4/4/16

The question then becomes, how do you continue stimulating young minds while still providing them with a fun escape away from the classroom environment? Summer camps have been a staple for keeping kids occupied during the school break. But these camps don’t just have to be mindless filler until the new school year begins. Nowadays, there are so many available options that promote creativity, education and foster a love for the arts, while at the same time serving as an enjoyable pastime for youngsters eager to embark on new adventures. Whether it’s theater, film, science, dance, art, sports, etc., we’ve compiled a list of South Florida’s hottest summer camps your kids will definitely fall for! …

2016 is the year of the butterfly

Family

Published 2/4/16

Butterfly World is prepped for the Spring Season as a “Floral Fantasy” for 2016. Nearly 1000 new flowering plants have been added to the gardens! Although there are always flowers blooming at the park, spring is the penultimate time for an ever-changing palate of colors throughout the park. Some of the species, such as the brilliant pink New Guinea Trumpet Vine, only bloom at this time of year. …