Here is what we're doing differently, why we’re doing it, and your complete guide to local events this week, from outdoor orchestras to a movie at the pool.

Did you see that Disclosure Day (the new Steven Spielberg movie) is opening today at MODS. Will you see it on the big, big screen (IMAX)? 👇👇👇

Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss This Week:

1. TODAY | Apocalyptic Mayhem, Lava-Spitting Llamas, One Very Sassy Cat. New York Times bestselling author of the wildly popular (and just plain wild) Dungeon Crawler Carl series, visits the Broward Library to chat about his latest book.

2. TONIGHT thru this Weekend | Blue Man Group. The internationally acclaimed theatrical phenomenon combines music, comedy, and multimedia spectacle.

3. Friday | Tunes ’N Trucks: Old Skool Gang. Food trucks, Motown classics, and outdoor fun make for a perfect Friday evening in Sunrise.

4. Friday Wellness | Two great options: Fusion Wellness Happy Hour. Includes a 30-minute guided fitness class in a calisthenics gym, B12 injections, red light therapy, compression therapy, and wellness mocktails. Or try CALMA Wellness Club Open Doors. A free, public open-house from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Thrive Art District. Features red light/contrast therapy, IV therapy, chair massages, zero-proof cocktails, and a vinyl DJ in a networking-free, recovery-focused environment.

5. This Weekend | Revolution Live will be rocking with two shows you might want to see. On Friday, Electric Feels is an experiential party from Los Angeles that plays a ridiculously fun blend of Indie Rock + Indie Dance music. On Saturday, KISS America will be performing with special guests GODSMACKED.

6. Also Friday Night | Dive-In Movie in Pompano Aquatic Center. Read that again. Movie at the pool, not parked in a car. Lilo & Stitch this week.

7. Also Friday Night | Free Starlight Musicals. Valerie Tyson Band this week.

8. Saturday Morning | Fort Lauderdale Beach Sweep. And no… if you are wondering, you will not be responsible for taking care of all the seaweed this week.

9. Saturday | Bump and spike for a good cause. 40th Annual All Heart Volleyball Challenge on Pompano Beach to support the Ann Storck Center.

10. Saturday | Ready Davie! Community Expo. A family-friendly event featuring public safety demonstrations, preparedness resources, and interactive exhibits.

11. This Weekend | Trading Card Megafest Explosion. A must-visit for collectors, featuring sports cards, trading cards, memorabilia, and vendors.

12. Starting Saturday | Jagged Little Pill. The Tony Award-winning musical inspired by Alanis Morissette’s groundbreaking album arrives at the Broward Center.

13. Next Tuesday | Small Business Growth Exchange. A networking and growth event at 560 NW 27th Ave starting at 6:00 PM.

14. Also Next Tuesday | Black Health Summit 2026. Starting at 8:00 AM at the Charles F. Dodge City Center in nearby Pembroke Pines.

15. Next Wednesday | Juneteenth Jubilee: Rhythm & Runway. A cultural celebration starting at 6:30 PM at the L.A. Lee YMCA/Mizell Community Center.

16. Also Next Wednesday | Networking & Casting Meet Up (48 Hour Film Project Competition). A great event for local creatives, actors, and filmmakers at Make it Visual Creative Studio in Coral Heights, starting at 7:30 PM.

17. Wednesdays | Free Pioneer Days at the Stranahan House. Residents get free admission to the Historic Stranahan House Museum every Wednesday during operating hours.

18. Each Week at Huizenga Park | Tuesday night yoga and Lauderdale Run Club 2 Miler. Wednesday night Trivia. Zumba on Friday nights. Workouts on Saturdays and Pilates on Sundays.

19. Two Upcoming Events for Fans of Local History | June 18 - Unearth a Story - Seeing Florida Heritage through Archaeology. A cultural and educational event starting at 11:00 AM at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center. And on June 17 - South Florida in the 18th Century. A historical seminar taking place at 6:00 PM at The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum.

20. Last week we published a “Big Book of All The Things Happening In June” in case you missed it and want to plan ahead. We are already working on our July list.

😉​ Hey - quick question. Did we miss anything? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Featured Fort Lauderdale

This week we are taking this space to feature… us (you and “we” together).

Weird, I know. Hear me out.

When we launched Family Friendly Fort Lauderdale back in 2021, our little family was new to South Florida. Every Monday or Tuesday I felt like we were hearing about cool stuff that happened the week before. Fort Lauderdale really is an amazing place to live.

So I started researching each week and sharing the list with friends and family. The newsletter grew (as did our little school) and now goes out to over 1400+ Fort Lauderdale friends and families.

But this week, you see a new name and logo. Soon we will retire the #FFFTL to embrace our bigger mission.

Here’s the honest reason. “Family-friendly” was never really the point. It described who could read us when what we actually care about is something else entirely: the difference between living in Fort Lauderdale and belonging to it.

Most people who move here never get to know the real city underneath the postcard. We’re writing and curatingfor the ones who want to. Whether you’ve got a stroller or a surfboard or you just moved into a one-bedroom three weeks ago and still don’t know where to get the best cup of coffee.

“Hey!” is how you talk to someone you know and love. That’s the whole idea. Same newsletter, same fellow-newcomer point of view. Just a new name that finally sounds like all of us. Together. Interested → Interesting → Invited → Included.

So… Hey for now 🤗

~ Tobin

So... You Think You Know South Florida

You probably already know... each week we are sharing events, and organizations, and… estate sales, and everything else that we think is cool about our little city by the sea.

What you might not know... there are hidden gems all around us.

Here’s one resource you can use locally (Fort Lauderdale) or… use it the next time you head out of town and see what’s around you.

You might be surprised at what’s on the list. The list includes reviews and some paid adventures if you are looking to entertain with family or friends.

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1300+ local families for just $100)

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

• Fridays until the end of August. Sunset Music Cruise with the Water Taxi. Leave the stresses of the week behind as you sip cocktails and sway to the rhythm of great music, all while watching the sunset from a view you won’t find on land.

• Did you know you can take off season tours of the Miami Heat All Access Arena and facilities? Minimum group of 4 required. Tell Victoria you heard about it from us.

• Friend of the newsletter (Hey! Laura Duksta that’s you 🙂) shared this new children’s book coming out from her friend Angela Yoder. Please support her Kickstarter. Over 183 backers already!

• Urban Air Adventure Park Plantation offers the ultimate way to keep kids active all summer long and beat the heat and rain. For Summer Group Packages full of nonstop indoor adventure call or email today! Lea@elevatedvg.com or 561-831-4311 for fast turnaround.

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1300+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Quote Of The Week

“It’s a flat object made from a tree with flexible parts on which are imprinted lots of funny dark squiggles. But one glance at it and you’re inside the mind of another person, maybe somebody dead for thousands of years. Across the millennia, an author is speaking clearly and silently inside your head, directly to you. Writing is perhaps the greatest of human inventions, binding together people who never knew each other, citizens of distant epochs. Books break the shackles of time. A book is proof that humans are capable of working magic.” ~ Carl Sagan

Carl Sagan was an American astronomer, planetary scientist, and science communicator who advocated for science and pioneered the search for extraterrestrial life.

Flotsam & Jetsam

Here’s a useful (not local) post if you are thinking to yourself (who hasn’t been lately), can I actually trust this?

We live in a fraught (and often false) world of half-baked truths and sometimes intentional fake news meant to knock us off balance.

We’ve all been there: you open your feed, spot a headline that makes your blood boil, and feel the immediate urge to smash the share button. But before you feed the outrage machine, author A.J. Jacobs has a lifeline for us.

Jacobs recently laid out “Ten Strong Suggestions for Surviving Misinformation,” and it is hands-down the best modern toolkit we’ve seen for keeping your sanity intact online. It’s essentially the anti-fake-news playbook.

Here are three of our favorite takeaways you can use today:

• Puzzles, Not Battles: Next time you disagree with someone online, don’t treat it as a war to be won. Frame it as a puzzle to solve. It shifts your brain from fury to curiosity.

• Assign Percentages to Your Beliefs: Stop treating opinions as 100% right or 0% wrong. Saying “I’m 70% sure about this candidate” leaves healthy room for your mind to evolve when new facts drop.

• Trust Those Who Admit Mistakes: The most reliable sources aren’t the ones claiming to be infallible—it’s the creators, journalists, and scientists who openly say, “Hey, we got this wrong yesterday, here is the correction.”

At its core, Jacobs’ guide reminds us to choose curiosity over fury, to be wary of our own shaky human memories, and to question individual “gurus” while respecting scientific consensus.

The next time a headline triggers you, take a breath, channel your inner detective, and remember that truth is usually a slow-burn puzzle.

Word Play Of The Week

“Every cloud has a silver lining”

This expression means that difficult, dark, or unpleasant situations almost always have a positive aspect or an unexpected benefit hidden within them. It serves as a gentle reminder to look for the good, even when things seem gloomy.

The phrase traces its roots all the way back to 1634, originating from John Milton’s famous poem Comus. Milton wrote about a traveler seeing a glimmer of hope in the night sky, describing a “silver lining” cast by the moon behind a dark cloud. By the Victorian era, the phrase evolved into a popular proverb to help people get through hard times. ~ ​Source

‘Under-The-Radar’ Openings Job Board

Lot’s of folks offering cool positions here locally. Maybe there’s one for you or a friend?

• Craft Beer Brewer. 26° Brewing Company. Pompano Beach, FL. A dream role for a beer enthusiast with a strong technical background.

• Social Programs Facilitator & Mentor. The Friendship Circle. A deeply rewarding community role. You will be designing dynamic social experiences, field trips, and events for children and adults with special needs, while also partnering with local businesses on Las Olas and beyond to create vocational training programs.

• Do you have a listing you would like to place here for next week? Hit reply and let us know.

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Who will you be helping this week?

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #H!L every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

Summer is here. And that means there’s A LOT going on in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area. So we created a full recap for the month of June so you can plan ahead for the next couple of weeks!

To make room, we had to drop some of our favorite sections. But those will be back next week, alongside some new and exciting additions ramping up for the summer.

Here’s what we will be sharing between now and the start of July:

1. A new logo (Hey! Lauderdale) and the back story on how that change came about - but more importantly, what it means for YOU!

2. New IRL events, perks for paid subscribers, and relaunching our podcast!

3. Local guides. Are you a foodie? Prefer hidden treasures more than Las Olas? We’ve got several local guides coming, each written just for you… (not the tourists, but the folks who live here but are still discovering all the cool adventures to be had). Lauderdale is so much cooler than just the postcard…

For now, let’s get into our big board of what’s happening in June!

JUNE EDITION - Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss:

1. June 5 | Old Town Untapped. Downtown Pompano Beach comes alive with live music, local artists, craft vendors, and a vibrant street festival atmosphere.

2. June 5 | Starlight Musicals. Enjoy a free outdoor concert under the stars as part of Fort Lauderdale’s beloved summer music series.

3. June 6 | Caribbean American Heritage Festival. Experience Caribbean culture through music, dance, food, and community celebration in Sunrise.

4. June 6 | Global Africa Symposium. An engaging event exploring African culture, innovation, leadership, and global connections.

5. June 6 | Venezuela vs. Turkey. Men’s National Teams friendly at Chase Stadium. If either country has a strong local community turnout, the atmosphere can feel like a mini World Cup.

6. June 6 | Pokemon Club at the Broward Libary. Bring your Pokémon cards, make a craft or bring a device to play. Recommended for ages 5-14.

7. June 7 | The Little Mermaid Jr. A little out of the Greater Fort Lauderdale area but they have a great event center down in Aventura that is worth watching.

8. June 7 | Sunday Jazz Brunch. Spend a relaxing afternoon along Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale enjoying free live jazz performances.

9. June 7 | Story Time at Flamingo Gardens. Family-focused literacy event in the Everglades Outdoor Classroom.

10. June 7 | Frantz Zéphirin: The Messenger. A major new exhibition opens at NSU Art Museum featuring the internationally recognized Haitian artist.

11. June 8 | Play & Sing Along with Ukulele FUN. A strumming good time. Best part is, you don’t even need to play the Uke. Just come and sing your favorites.

12. Until June 10 | Masters of the Universe on IMAX. See how He-Man becomes the most powerful man in the universe! On the biggest screen available.

13. June 11 | Apocalyptic Mayhem, Lava-Spitting Llamas, One Very Sassy Cat. New York Times bestselling author of the wildly popular (and just plain wild) Dungeon Crawler Carl series, visits the Broward Library to chat about his latest book.

14. June 11-14 | Blue Man Group. The internationally acclaimed theatrical phenomenon combines music, comedy, and multimedia spectacle.

15. June 12 | Tunes ’N Trucks: Old Skool Gang. Food trucks, Motown classics, and outdoor fun make for a perfect Friday evening in Sunrise.

16. June 13 | Ready Davie! Community Expo. A family-friendly event featuring public safety demonstrations, preparedness resources, and interactive exhibits.

17. June 13 | The Acacia Strain. Heavy music fans can catch the influential metalcore band live at Culture Room.

18. June 13-14 | Trading Card Megafest Explosion. A must-visit for collectors, featuring sports cards, trading cards, memorabilia, and vendors.

19. June 13-28 | Jagged Little Pill. The Tony Award-winning musical inspired by Alanis Morissette’s groundbreaking album arrives at the Broward Center.

20. June 19 | Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida: Invincible. An inspiring musical celebration of resilience, community, and pride.

21. June 19-21 | Otakufest in West Palm Beach. There’s a big cosplay event (Supercon) coming to Miami in July. But if you can’t wait, this one up at the Palm Beach Convention Center looks fun.

22. June 20 | Fort Lauderdale Juneteenth Celebration. Honor freedom, culture, and history through live performances, food, and community gathering.

23. June 20 | Stonewall Pride Parade & Street Festival. South Florida’s largest Pride celebration fills Wilton Manors with parades, entertainment, vendors, and energy.

24. June 20 | Vince Gill: 50 Years From Home. One of country music’s most respected performers celebrates an extraordinary career.

25. June 21 | Sound Bath Healing Experience. Start your Sunday with a restorative wellness session designed to promote relaxation and mindfulness.

26. June 22 | Pentagram. The pioneering doom metal band brings decades of heavy music history to Culture Room.

27. June 23 | Todd Rundgren. The legendary singer-songwriter and producer performs hits spanning his remarkable career.

28. June 27 | American Orchid Society Judging. Watch expert orchid judges evaluate rare and exotic plants. Surprisingly fascinating if you enjoy seeing obsessive enthusiasts in their natural habitat.

29. June 30 | Ariana Grande. One of pop music’s biggest stars launches her South Florida tour stop at Amerant Bank Arena.

30. June 30-July 15 | Alice in Wonderland Jr. Follow Alice down the rabbit hole in this whimsical youth theater production at the Broward Center.

31. Wednesdays-Saturdays | Hollywood Beach Theatre Concert Series. Live music just steps from the ocean on the Hollywood Broadwalk.

32. Fridays All Summer | Starlight Musicals. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy free outdoor concerts across Fort Lauderdale parks.

33. First Sunday of the Month | Sunday Jazz Brunch. Free live jazz performances along Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Riverwalk.

34. Through June 24 | Figure Drawing Classes. Sharpen your artistic skills through guided figure drawing sessions.

35. June 4-August 13 | Take PRIDE! Coming Out of the Shadows. A powerful exhibition celebrating LGBTQ+ stories, history, and culture.

36. June 11-August 29 | Where We Stay: A Juneteenth Experience. An immersive exhibition exploring Black history, identity, and community.

37. All Month | Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Community Programs. Fitness classes, social gatherings, educational programs, and activities for all ages.

38. SAVE THIS EVENT FOR JULY | Daddy/Daughter Dance. Dads and their daughters, ages 6-12 years old enjoy the evening with a Hollywood theme at Plantation Community Center.

😉​ Hey - quick question. What did we miss? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Quote Of the Week

Some days does it feel like you have bad luck? Consider this…

“You never know what worse luck your bad luck has saved you from.”

~ Cormac McCarthy

From: No Country for Old Men by Cormac McCarthy

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1400+ local families for just $100)

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

• Our list is growing. 1400+ Fort Lauderdale families. Over 100 in the last 2 weeks. Do you have a product, a service, or an event that they need to know about? We will work with you on a unique package (multiple weeks, giveaways, etc) to make sure you get the results you are looking for!

• Got your summer camp registrations done? If not, make sure you look at Camp Live Oak! Right here in town (Birch Taylor State Park) and run by wonderful people (we know and love them too!

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1300+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Interested → Interesting → Invited → Included.

That’s the promise we developed for this newsletter.

Spend five minutes. Walk into the week knowing something worth knowing, worth sharing with others, and one step closer down the path. That’s who you are.

So that’s what we will deliver. Thanks for joining us!

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #FFFTL every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss:

1. TONIGHT | Paint and Sip with Constance Ivana. A fun workshop that will bring out the artist in you.

2. Friday Night | Movie On The Lawn at Huizenga Park. See the live action version of Lilo & Stitch. There will also be a performance from Polynesian Proud Productions and a hula hoop party.

3. Saturday Morning | Yoga and The Market at Fort Lauderdale Beach. An eclectic array of homemade & handmade fare ranging from fresh produce and fruit to global flavors, made-to-order foods, and unique items to wear and decorate your home.

4. Saturday | Sound Bath Meditation at Huizenga Park. A calming experience with soothing sounds and frequencies of crystal singing bowls and other therapeutic instruments.

5. Saturday | Fort Lauderdale Fire & Safety Museum. Open the second and last Saturdays of each month. You can also sign up for private tours to bring your class, scout troop, or community group for a hands-on learning experience at historic Fire Station No. 3.

6. Sunday | Fort Lauderdale Neighbor Day at the NSU Art Museum. Every LAST Sunday of every month, Fort Lauderdale residents receive FREE admission to NSU Art Museum as part of Fort Lauderdale Neighbor Days.

7. Sunday Afternoon | Flamingo Flea at Tarpon River Brewing. Craft beer, vendors, brunch and live music at Tarpon River Brewing.

8. Weekend | Want something a bit more eclectic to do? There are two massive Estate Sales happening in both Hollywood and Boca. The Hollywood sale is a massive local estate featuring art, vintage electronics, and unique home goods. Just a few minutes north in Boca, there is a massive three-day estate sale running through May 31 packed with vintage Weller, McCoy, and Robinson Ransbottom pottery, old-school artwork, and collectibles. For security reasons, the exact street addresses for these private homes aren't published until the morning of Thursday, May 28th on EstateSales.net.

9. Tuesday and Thursdays | Quill and Quest After School Club at Colossal Academy. A place of adventure where storytelling, D&D, creativity, and collaboration come alive.

10. Tuesday (June 2) | MindTravel Live-to-Headphones Silent Piano Concert in Fort Lauderdale. Composer and pianist Murray Hidary creates an unforgettable evening of soothing, improvisational music designed to quiet the mind, open the heart, and connect you more deeply to yourself and those around you.

11. Wednesdays | Trivia Night at Huizenga Park. Described as Think & Drink Trivia, a midweek mix of brainpower, fresh air, and a little friendly competition.

😉​ Hey - quick question. Did we miss anything? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Featured Fort Lauderdale

Have you been watching ABC’s new series RJ Decker, set in Fort Lauderdale?

As the Miami Herald put it, the show is promoting a ‘Magnum PI’ style detective show along with Fort Lauderdale’s own unique kind of weird. Hey Miami… who you calling weird? 🙃

Whether you first saw the big promotional billboards along 95 or noticed production trucks, street closures, or a sudden influx of Hollywood star power around Fort Lauderdale and Broward County recently, you aren’t imagining things. Hollywood has officially rolled into town, and they are bringing a classic piece of homegrown Florida literature with them.

ABC’s highly anticipated midseason drama has officially made its debut, cementing Broward County’s growing reputation as a premier backdrop for major television and film productions.

The series is deeply rooted in local lore. It is adapted from Double Whammy, the 1987 satirical crime novel by legendary former Miami Herald investigative reporter and columnist Carl Hiaasen. Raised in Plantation, Hiaasen has spent decades capturing the bizarre, sun-soaked, and crime-riddled eccentricities of South Florida.

Now, showrunner Rob Doherty (the mastermind behind CBS’s Elementary) is bringing that specific brand of “Florida Gothic” to life. The series stars Scott Speedman (Grey’s Anatomy, Felicity) as R.J. Decker, a disgraced former newspaper photographer and ex-con trying to rebuild his life as a private investigator. Instead of straightforward cases, Decker finds himself navigating a maze of South Florida’s strangest crimes, corrupt local politics, and a highly unconventional web of personal relationships.

RJ Decker airs Tuesday nights at 10 p.m. EST on ABC, right after Will Trent and High Potential. If you miss the live broadcast, episodes are available for streaming the next day on Hulu.

Did You Know? Author Carl Hiaasen, whose book Double Whammy inspired the show, was born and raised right here in Broward County (Plantation) and graduated from Plantation High School in 1970 before his award-winning journalism career at the Miami Herald. He serves as an Executive Producer on the show to ensure the series keeps its authentic, hilariously chaotic Florida roots!

So... You Think You Know South Florida

You probably already know... Fort Lauderdale is warm and tropical, with many different species of plants and animals.

What you might not know... South Florida is a literal paradise for butterfly espionage?

Beyond the world-class, immersive experience at Butterfly World (Coconut Creek), families can go on a free scavenger hunt at Snyder Park’s 'Circle of Life' garden or Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.

🦋 South Florida Has Butterfly Bragging Rights

We are Home to America’s Only “Social” Butterfly. Most butterflies are solitary loners, but Florida’s official state butterfly, the Zebra Longwing is incredibly social. They actually gather in groups at night to sleep together in the exact same branches of trees (called “communal roosting”). Older butterflies even “wake up” the younger ones in the morning by fluttering over them! Kids love looking for these butterfly slumber parties in local hardwood hammocks.

While most butterflies only live for a few weeks, the Zebra Longwing can live for up to six months! Their secret? Unlike other butterflies that only drink nectar, they can actually eat and digest pollen, giving them a massive protein boost.

The World’s smallest butterfly is also right here. Keep your eyes peeled at Snyder Park for the Eastern Pygmy-Blue. It is one of the smallest butterflies in the entire world, with a wingspan that is barely the size of a thumbnail (less than half an inch!). It’s a fun “I Spy” game for kids to play while exploring the gardens.

The caterpillar of the Giant Swallowtail (frequently seen fluttering around South Florida’s citrus trees) has a hilarious defense mechanism. When threatened, it sticks out two bright orange, antenna-like horns called an osmeterium that emit a foul odor resembling rancid butter. To top it off, the caterpillar is completely camouflaged to look exactly like bird droppings so predators leave it alone!

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1300+ local families for just $100)

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

• The Opulent Reset. For the woman who built it all, and forgot herself inside of it. A private four-day return to yourself on the white-sand shores of Turks & Caicos.

• Did you know the business of travel agents is making a resurgence? And you have local options for the experience of a lifetime. Visit R_N_R_Vacations and ask for Fanya.

• Children heading off unhappily to school for another dreary day? Have you looked at Acton? The model is pretty different from a traditional school, and it seems to click for many who are not thriving in a standard classroom. Book a visit to see for yourself.

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1300+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Quote Of The Week

“In a world of change, the learners shall inherit the earth, while the learned shall find themselves perfectly suited for a world that no longer exists.” ~ Eric Hoffer, philosopher and author

This one seems especially relevant to our fast changing times in today’s world. And I love that he used the word “learners” which is what we used to describe a young person at Acton. We do not have students (or teachers, or homework) at Acton.

Flotsam & Jetsam

This week’s ‘floating debris’ falls in the category of “was this will power over the body, or pure patriotism?”

Want a mind-blowing fact for your next happy hour? Two of America’s greatest frenemies, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, literally willed themselves to stay alive for the country’s 50th birthday.

On July 4, 1826, both men passed away within hours of each other. They were old, frail, and holding on by a thread, but their shared obsession with reaching the Golden Jubilee kept them breathing.

While it’s a myth that people only lived to 44 back then (high infant mortality rates skew that average—if you survived childhood, living into your 70s or 80s was totally normal!), making it to 90 like Adams did was still a massive feat.

Adams’ last words were “Thomas Jefferson survives” - not knowing Jefferson had actually died five hours earlier. Now that is poetic timing.

Word Play Of The Week

“Under The Weather”

This week I was feeling a bit “under the weather” - which made me wonder about where that saying originated.

The idiom comes from 19th-century nautical slang. When sailors or passengers on old wooden ships felt seasick or ill, they would go below deck to escape the harsh elements and rest, placing themselves literally “under the weather”. ~ ​Source

‘Under-The-Radar’ Openings Job Board

Here’s a new section that we are debuting this week with our transition to Substack.

• EcoExplorers Internship Program in Environmental Education and Workforce Training at MODS. A yearlong paid internship for students entering grades 10-12 at eligible Broward County public high schools in environmental education and workforce development.

• Do you love animals? And you have leadership skills? Pet Alliance - the leading animal welfare organization is looking for a new CEO.

• Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS). Science Facilitator: Sea Turtle Walks Lead (Full-Time).

• Boat Canvas Person. Sam’s Canvas and Upholstery Inc. Top pay for the right person.

• NSU Athletics is looking for a Strength & Conditioning Coach. Extensive knowledge of individual and team skills with the ability to teach these skills.

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Is there something you’ve been avoiding?

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #FFFTL every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

And save the date next Wednesday. Port Everglades is hosting a career fair at the Convention Center with jobs in maritime, aviation, and hospitality.

Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss:

1. TONIGHT | Downtown Scavenger Hunt. It’s not too late to join United Way Broward’s Las Olas Odyssey. Explore downtown Fort Lauderdale through an interactive scavenger hunt designed to spark connection, friendly competition, and community impact.

2. Also TONIGHT | Equality Park After Dark’s Funky Fun Market. Eat, shop, and socialize from 6 PM to 9 PM with incredible food trucks, vendors, artists, authors, local businesses, and craftspeople.

3. This Weekend | The Heart of Rock and Roll JR. MTI Pilot Production. Student production by Broward Center\ Rose Miniaci Arts Education Students. Three-night run. Check Ticketmaster for times and pricing. Family-friendly youth performance.

4. Saturday | Great American Beach Party. Fort Lauderdale’s signature Memorial Day Weekend beach bash returns. Live bands, SOCOM Para-Commando parachute team landing on the beach, giant water slides, classic car show, sand sculpting contest, kids zone, art show, military tribute, and the Fort Lauderdale Walk of Fame ceremony. Parking downtown and Water Taxi recommended.

5. Monday | Memorial Day Observance. Fort Lauderdale might be famous for its Great American Beach Party, but let’s not forget the real meaning behind Memorial Day Observances. Come out and show your appreciation for those families who sacrificed the most, to preserve our freedoms.

6. Huizenga Events | Tuesdays nights at Huizenga includes a two-miler with the Lauderdale Run Club and yoga. But did you know that on Wednesdays they have also kicked off a Trivia Night? I will be running, so if you are laced up say hello!

7. Wednesday (May 27) | Port Everglades Career Fair & Expo. Port Everglades hosts its career fair. Employers include Broward Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, maritime and construction firms. Hospitality, maritime, government, security, aviation, logistics. Port Everglades supports 12,000+ local jobs and generates $28.1 billion annually. Free event but registration recommended.

8. Next Friday (29th) | Movie On The Lawn. Save this date. Bring your lawn chair or blankets for a Lilo & Stitch (the live action movie) in the park.

😉​ Hey - quick question. Did we miss anything? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Featured Fort Lauderdale

Hidden Wilderness Next Door: Why You Need to Discover Secret Woods

We’ve all driven past it. In the middle of Broward County’s bustling grid, just off the roar of State Road 84, lies a literal portal to old Florida. It’s a place that feels less like a local park and more like a well-kept secret passed down among travelers.

If you are looking for an adventurer’s escape without leaving the zip code, Secret Woods Nature Center is calling.

Stepping onto the property feels like stepping backward in time. Spanning 57 acres of remarkably preserved wilderness along the New River, Secret Woods is a vibrant ecosystem thriving in quiet defiance of the surrounding urban sprawl.

The magic of this sanctuary lies in its transitions. As you walk the winding, shaded boardwalks, the landscape shifts around you:

• The Mangrove Curtains: Tidal impoundments where the roots reach into the brackish water like tangled lace, creating a sanctuary for local marine life and wading birds.

• The Monarch Canopy: Royal Roost, a famed stopover for migrating Monarch butterflies, where the air feels alive with subtle movement.

• The Oak Hammocks: Massive, moss-draped live oaks that blot out the midday sun, dropping the temperature and creating a quiet, cathedral-like stillness.

The Art of Slipping Away

What makes Secret Woods a true adventurer’s dream isn’t just the biodiversity. You can be caught in South Florida traffic one minute, and five minutes later, you’re listening to the rustle of land crabs in the undergrowth and the call of a pileated woodpecker overhead.

It is a reminder that nature doesn’t always require a three-hour road trip to find. Sometimes, the wild is just waiting quietly on the side of the highway, hidden in plain sight.

Insider Tip: Go early in the morning when the mist is still rising off the New River wetlands. Bring a notebook, a camera, or just your own thoughts and leave the digital noise behind.

So... You Think You Know South Florida

You probably already know... we are a tourist destination and that means over 32 million passengers travel through FLL (Fort Lauderdale International Airport) each year.

What you might not know... Fort Lauderdale’s Airport is Secretly a Free Art Museum

Think terminal wait times are only good for overpriced coffee and doom-scrolling?

As it turns out, FLL is quietly double-timing as one of South Florida’s most expansive public art galleries. The airport boasts a staggering collection of over 60 public art installations scattered across its terminals and baggage claims. That’s the highest concentration of public art of any Broward County agency.

A recent deep dive into the collection spotlighted some incredible hidden gems you can visit right now without buying a plane ticket:

• The Illusionary Traveler: Tucked into the Terminal 1 baggage claim area is “Vendor with a Walkman” by legendary South Florida hyper-realist sculptor Duane Hanson. Cast in bronze and meticulously painted, this life-sized sculpture of a resting worker is so lifelike that travelers regularly stop to see if he’s breathing or mistake him for a real person.

• The Three-Story Seascape: Marine conservationist and artist Guy Harvey took over Terminal 1 with “Sunken Treasure,” a massive, hand-embellished vinyl mural that plunges onlookers into a vibrant underwater world complete with a shipwreck and native sea life.

• The Sonic Landscape: If you walk past “Wavescape” by Paul DeMarinis, you are the instrument. It’s a motion-triggered audio installation that reacts directly to moving passengers.

• Sculpting the Air: In Concourse A, look up to see Emily White’s “Wavelength,” a stunning, flowing wave of painted aluminum that mimics the rhythmic motion of the Atlantic swell.

• Art by Airport employees too! There’s even a section reserved by those who work and serve at FLL each day.

  

Best Part? Because it’s a public art initiative, it’s completely free to view. Next time you’re dropping someone off, picking someone up, or bracing for a flight delay, skip the gate seating and go on a terminal gallery crawl.

Want to map out your art walk before your next flight? Check out the full breakdown of FLL’s hidden masterpieces in the Sun Sentinel’s feature here.

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1300+ local families for just $100)

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

• Fridays - come enjoy a Sunset Music Cruise with Water Taxi. Happy Hour starts 5pm. Cruise sets sail at 7pm. Great music and a toast to a memorable sunset experience.

• The Opulent Reset. For the woman who built it all, and forgot herself inside of it. A private four-day return to yourself on the white-sand shores of Turks & Caicos.

• Did you know the business of travel agents is making a resurgence? And you have local options for the experience of a lifetime. Visit R_N_R_Vacations and ask for Fanya.

• Children heading off unhappily to school for another dreary day? Have you looked at Acton? The model is pretty different from a traditional school, and it seems to click for many who are not thriving in a standard classroom. Book a visit to see for yourself.

• Rhythms School of Dance is a training center for Indian Classical dance, Bharatanatyam. Promoting priceless artistic traditions of India through professional training and student performances.

• Dayshift is a party for the 30+ generation who want the unmatched energy of a club, but detest the idea of being out past midnight. Join us for the worldwide clubbing phenomenon alongside DJ's, dancers, disco balls, confetti showers and much more. Running from 5-9pm, get all the fun of a nightclub but during the daytime. Expect the biggest 80s/90s/00s tunes all day long.

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1300+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Quote Of The Week

On opportunity: “Today is cruel. Tomorrow is crueler. And the day after tomorrow is beautiful.” ~ Jack Ma

Jack Ma is a Chinese businessman and philanthropist who co-founded Alibaba, the e-commerce giant.

Flotsam & Jetsam

Ghost in the Machine: Could An App Know You Better Than You Know Yourself?

We like to think of our daily digital decisions as purely functional. You clear an email, bypass an update, skip a track, or add a specific article to a “read later” list that you’ll inevitably ignore. It feels like basic administrative maintenance.

But what if your interface is actually taking notes on your psyche?

Enter Shadow OS, a concept designed to turn your routine digital choices into deep Jungian insight.

Every time you interact with a system, you leave behind a psychological trail. Shadow OS doesn’t just track what you click; it maps the patterns of your behavior across three specific dimensions:

• What You Chose: The paths you repeatedly take, revealing your conscious desires and ego ideal.

• What You Avoid: The notifications you swipe away, the tasks you endlessly defer, and the inputs you actively ignore—the digital manifestations of your aversion and denial.

• The Shadows In Between: The hidden common denominator surfacing across both. It’s the latent friction in your routine that reveals what you are actually running toward (or away from).

Carl Jung famously wrote, “Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” Next time you find yourself aggressively clearing a specific type of notification or falling into a predictable loop of digital procrastination, take a closer look. Your operating system might just understand your shadow self better than you do.

Word Play Of The Week

“Kill Two Birds with One Stone”

The idiom “kill two birds with one stone” means to accomplish two objectives or solve two problems with a single action or effort. It implies efficiency and effectiveness in achieving multiple goals simultaneously. This figurative expression is often used to describe situations where a single solution or action can address multiple issues, saving time, effort, or resources. ~ ​Source

‘Under-The-Radar’ Openings Job Board

Here’s a new section that we are debuting this week with our transition to Substack.

• EcoExplorers Internship Program in Environmental Education and Workforce Training at MODS. A yearlong paid internship for students entering grades 10-12 at eligible Broward County public high schools in environmental education and workforce development.

• Hiring Office Assistant- Hollywood Florida. Monday - Thursday 9am- 4 pm. $20 an hour.

• Port Everglades Career Fair & Expo (May 27). Multiple Employers. Broward County Convention Center.

• Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS). Science Facilitator: Sea Turtle Walks Lead (Full-Time).

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #FFFTL every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

What questions (about Fort Lauderdale) are you wildly curious to know about?

Asking because we are working on a new section for the newsletter, and we want to cater it to our readers. Curious about local businesses? History of the city? Hidden gems? Just hit reply. Your responses will end up in an upcoming newsletter feature.

Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss:

1. TONIGHT | Like Nastya. Global music star Like Nastya brings her live show to Fort Lauderdale. A family event from the YouTube phenomenon with millions of young fans worldwide.

2. Also Thursday Nights | Yappy Hour + DogDrop. Bring your dog for a social hour with treats, activations, and the DogDrop on-site. All dogs welcome.

   1. More from Huizenga: Thursdays | Pilates in the Park. Free pilates session in the park. Bring a mat and water. Open to all skill levels.

   2. Fridays | Zumba by Domingo. Free Zumba class in the park with instructor Domingo. All ages and fitness levels welcome.

   3. Saturday | Arts in the Park: Terrarium Workshop. Creative workshop for kids: build your own miniature terrarium to take home.

   4. Tuesdays | Lauderdale Run Club. Join over 400 runners, trotter, and walkers of all ages in a short 1.8 mile loop around the Riverwalk.

3. Friday | A Spoonful of Sugar. Several of our Acton learners will be on stage Friday night with the Miss Marie Poppinz Theatre Company. Get your tickets.

4. Also Friday | Jason Mraz: Still Yours 2026 Tour. Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Jason Mraz returns with his acclaimed Still Yours tour — an intimate evening of hits and storytelling.

5. Saturday | The Mixtape Live - Broadway Kids Studio. Two shows Saturday. Features young Broadway talent performing iconic musical theater numbers.

6. Saturday | Smoke On The Water BBQ Feast. This annual festival will bring together top pitmasters, BBQ enthusiasts, and food lovers for an assortment of smoked and grilled fare.

7. Saturday Night | Samantha Bee: How to Survive Menopause. The Full Frontal (adult themes and not for children) host brings her candid comedy to the Truist Comedy Series.

8. This Weekend | Star Wars & Pop Culture Event. Three full days at the Westin in Fort Lauderdale. Not just Star Wars, but Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Anime, Marvel, and a whole world of pop culture.

9. Sunday | Brazilian Voices: A Bossa Nova Yoga Experience. Part of the Amplify Arts Series. A wellness event combining live bossa nova music with yoga — all levels welcome.

10. Sunday | Miss Arc Broward Pageant. Annual pageant celebrating the achievements of young women with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Hosted by The Arc of Broward County.

11. Next Wednesday (May 20th) | Father Mike Schmitz: The Parables Tour. The beloved author and speaker behind Ascension Presents brings his live tour to Fort Lauderdale. A faith-filled evening for families and young people.

😉​ Hey - quick question. Did we miss anything? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Featured Fort Lauderdale

Flagler Village Becoming Part of Fort Lauderdale's Creative Heart

For decades, the area just north of downtown Fort Lauderdale was defined by the rhythmic hum of industry and rows of weathered warehouses. Today, that industrial grit has been repurposed into the city’s most vibrant cultural engine: Flagler Village. Once a neglected industrial pocket, it has evolved into a walkable, mural-clad sanctuary for artists, entrepreneurs, and young families alike.

From Concrete Roots to Canvas Walls

The transformation of Flagler Village is a masterclass in urban revitalization. The neighborhood’s history is rooted in the early 20th-century Florida land boom and the manufacturing industries, printing, railroads, and turpentine that once dominated the landscape. As these industries shifted, they left behind a vast “warehouse district” that provided the perfect, low-cost skeleton for a creative takeover.

The turning point came with the establishment of sub-districts like FATVillage (Flagler Arts and Technology) and the MASS District (Music and Arts South of Sunrise). These pockets turned industrial relics into galleries and performance spaces, fostering a community advocacy group focused on promoting the area as a dedicated arts district. The most visible sign of this shift is the street art; the neighborhood now serves as a sprawling public gallery where world-class murals greet visitors at nearly every turn.

A Day in the Village: Coffee, Curios, and Community

What makes Flagler Village distinct from the sleek skyscrapers of Las Olas is its human scale. The neighborhood is designed for the “stroll.” A typical morning might begin at an independent craft coffee shop, many of which are housed in former garage spaces before wandering through boutique stores that specialize in everything from vintage apparel to handmade home goods.

The community’s heart beats loudest during the Monthly Art Walk. On these evenings, the district transforms into a massive block party where visitors can wander through artist studios, watch puppet shows, or explore prop warehouses that have been opened to the public (Lipscomb, 2014).

Urban Living with a Family-Friendly Edge

While the “artsy” label often implies a nightlife-only vibe, Flagler Village has become a “family-friendly” hub. The influx of new residential developments has brought with it a wave of approachable dining options and green spaces. Modern placemaking efforts, including “Better Block” initiatives, have prioritized traffic-calming devices and pedestrian-friendly “shared spaces” to make the streets safer and more livable for residents.

Whether you’re visiting to photograph the latest mural, hunt for a unique gift in a local boutique, or simply enjoy a latte in the shadow of a repurposed warehouse, Flagler Village offers a glimpse into the future of Fort Lauderdale: a city that honors its industrial past while painting a bright, creative future.

FAT Village mural by Leah Brown

So... You Think You Know South Florida

You probably already know... FTL is known for its love and proximity to all things H2O.

What you might not know... Fort Lauderdale has more waterways than any other city in the world.

With over 300 miles of canals, more than Venice, Italy - Fort Lauderdale is often called the Venice of America. The Intracoastal Waterway, New River, and network of canals were largely hand-dug during the city's early development, creating a boating and waterfront lifestyle that defines the city to this day.

Fort Lauderdale ALSO holds the prestigious Blue Wave Beach certification, one of fewer than 40 beaches in the US meeting the highest international standards for water quality, environmental education, safety, and sustainability.

The Clean Beaches Coalition doesn’t just look for pretty water; they analyze the “health” of the coastline through four primary lenses:

• Water Quality: Frequent, documented testing to ensure the ocean is free from harmful levels of bacteria or pollutants.

• Habitat Conservation: Protecting the local ecosystem, including the delicate sea turtle nesting grounds that characterize the region.

• Safety Services: Ensuring the presence of professional lifeguards, clear signage, and emergency response infrastructure.

• Public Education: Providing the community with information on how to interact with the environment without damaging it.

Why It Matters for Families

For parents, the Blue Wave certification offers more than just environmental peace of mind; it’s a practical guide to safety. The designation guarantees that the water quality is monitored with a frequency that exceeds standard coastal requirements. In an era where “eco-friendly” is often used as a marketing buzzword, Fort Lauderdale’s commitment to third-party verification proves that its status as a top U.S. beach is rooted in data, not just aesthetics.

The result? A coastline that manages to be both a bustling urban hub and a pristine natural sanctuary, all at the same time.

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1300+ local families for just $100)

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

• The Opulent Reset. For the woman who built it all, and forgot herself inside of it. A private four-day return to yourself on the white-sand shores of Turks & Caicos.

• NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale | One of South Florida’s premier contemporary art museums. Current exhibitions: Selma is Now (through June 27) and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel (through June 14). Free First Thursday every first Thursday of the month, 11 AM–7 PM. 🔗 https://nsuartmuseum.org

• Children heading off unhappily to school for another dreary day? Have you looked at Acton? The model is pretty different from a traditional school, and it seems to click for many who are not thriving in a standard classroom. Book a visit to see for yourself.

• Pioneer Wednesdays is a special program designed to give back to the Fort Lauderdale community by offering residents free admission to the Historic Stranahan House Museum every Wednesday during operating hours. This initiative invites locals to explore the city’s rich history, connect with its pioneering roots, and experience one of Fort Lauderdale’s most significant landmarks at no cost.

• Rhythms School of Dance is a training center for Indian Classical dance, Bharatanatyam. Promoting priceless artistic traditions of India through professional training and student performances.

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1300+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Quote Of The Week

“Most of the work that’s done in the world gets done by people who weren’t feeling all that well at the time that they did it.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Eleanor Roosevelt was an American political figure, diplomat, and activist. She was the longest-serving first lady of the United States, during her husband Franklin D. Roosevelt's four terms as president from 1933 to 1945. Through her travels, public engagement, and advocacy, she largely redefined the role.

Flotsam & Jetsam

Ever wondered if you are saying a word correctly? Now you will know.

Use Youglish to check your pronunciation.

Word Play Of The Week

“Raining cats and dogs”

You’ve probably heard this phrase and wondered where it comes from. It means that it is raining extremely hard and comes from 17th-century England, where heavy rain would wash dead animals through the streets. ~ ​Source

‘Under-The-Radar’ Openings Job Board

Here’s a new section that we are debuting this week with our transition to Substack.

• EcoExplorers Internship Program in Environmental Education and Workforce Training at MODS. A yearlong paid internship for students entering grades 10-12 at eligible Broward County public high schools in environmental education and workforce development.

• Part-time openings at the Broward Center. Head usher, bartenders, and event staff. Even a teaching artist position.

• Next week (May 19th) CareerSource Broward Job Fair for former Spirit Airlines workers. In response to the Spirit Airlines shutdown, FloridaCommerce and CareerSource are hosting Rapid Response events to bring career and employment resources to displaced workers.

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #FFFTL every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

Every Thursday, we send a curated list of 10 to 15 things worth doing in greater Fort Lauderdale this weekend. Events, restaurants, hidden gems, local history, the occasional weird and wonderful discovery. Scan it in ten seconds. Pick the thing that grabs you. Get your family out the door.

We added a few features, local history, and then some fun quotes and thoughts that might change the trajectory of your day.

Over 1,400+ local families already get the Thursday’s email. It’s free.

Why We Exist (and what’s in it for you)

Five years ago, our family moved to Fort Lauderdale and knew almost nobody. We started collecting a list of cool things happening around us, the stuff that doesn’t show up when you Google “things to do in Fort Lauderdale” and get the same ten tourist attractions.

We figured other families were in the same spot. Maybe you just moved here. Maybe you’ve been here for years but got stuck in the same rotation of spots. Maybe your kids are glued to screens and you need a reason to say “we’re going out, get your shoes on.”

So we started writing it down and sending it out. That was 2021. We’ve sent over 200 newsletters and recorded over 50 podcasts since.

What You Actually Get Each Week

The Thursday newsletter is a quick-hit rundown. No filler, no fluff. Each item gets a short description and a link so you can dig deeper if it catches your eye.

You’ll find things like:

• Weekend festivals and outdoor events

• Restaurants and food spots worth the drive

• Free and low-cost activities for families with young kids

• Local business spotlights

• Bits of Fort Lauderdale history and trivia you probably didn’t know

• The occasional oddball find that doesn’t fit any category but is too good to skip

We do the digging so you don’t have to. Dozens of local sources, event calendars, community pages, and word-of-mouth tips get filtered down to the stuff that’s actually worth your Saturday.

The Acton Academy Connection

Full disclosure: by day, we run Acton Academy Fort Lauderdale, a small independent school in its fourth year. Family Friendly Fort Lauderdale started as a learner-led media project, and the long-term vision is still to hand the editorial reins to our learners. Research, writing, interviews with local business owners, all of it. Real work, real audience, real stakes.

That handoff is a work in progress. Right now, the newsletter is mostly produced by our team. But the goal hasn’t changed. We want our heroes (we call our Acton learners heroes because they are on a Hero’s Journey as part of their school experience) to learn what it means to show up for a community every single week and deliver something people count on.

That said, this newsletter is ultimately for the community. It is not a school publication. You won’t find fundraising drives or classroom updates here. If you’re curious about Acton, that’s a different conversation and we’re happy to have it. But Hey! Lauderdale (formerly FFFTL) is all about the city behind the postcard - greater Fort Lauderdale we love.

Who Writes These

Tobin Slaven is the co-founder of Acton Academy Fort Lauderdale and the primary voice behind the newsletter. He moved to Fort Lauderdale in 2021 with his partner Martina, fell in love with the city, and has been cataloging its best-kept secrets ever since.

Our Big Local Event

Did you know we also host the local Children’s Business Fair? The newsletter is a gathering ground for many of the families who participate (or shop) each year. So keep an eye out for our annual updates.

Please Share (And Subscribe!)

The newsletter is free and lands in your inbox every Thursday morning. If it’s not for you, you can unsubscribe anytime with one click. No hard feelings.

But if you’ve ever opened your phone on a Friday afternoon and thought, “What should… what could we do this weekend?”... this is the answer to that question, every single week. With a little bit of entertainment and local flavor built-in. 😎

When the “experts”(meaning, those closest to the work) say something big is happening (if you haven’t seen this link, start here), my approach is to do two things:

1. Get curious and watch closely so I can gather information;

2. Step back and take it all in first, so I don’t get reactive.

A first draft of this post was originally emailed to group of fellow Acton owners after a discussion about the future of our schools and the bigger future of the Acton Network. It is a letter meant to be both a wake-up call and one full of hope.

You get to choose which will serve your family most.

“Imagine it’s 2029.

Half the parents at Acton Academy Fort Lauderdale who we used to rely on for tuition are ‘unemployed.’ But... they’re still ‘okay.’ They’re consulting, freelancing, piecing it together. Income is down 20–40%. But these families are doing better than ever.

Their child’s school choice become the solution.

At the same time that AI begins to make a lot of white-collar work cheap. Some parents ask a brutal question:

‘How can I keep paying for this school I love when our own income feels threatened?’

The fork in the road becomes real.

Learning that is basically just content delivery get priced like content.

Cheap. Replaceable.

Schools that are identity + tribe + standards + trust become priceless, because they help families stay functional and connected during chaos.

So the question for Acton isn’t ‘How do we run better schools next year?’

It’s ‘How do we become the most trusted institution in a family’s life, after church and before their bank?’

Let’s get started (if you haven’t already seen this) here’s the full Centrini Research.

Citrini Research

THE 2028 GLOBAL INTELLIGENCE CRISIS

Preface…

Read more

4 months ago · 8764 likes · 90 comments · Citrini and Alap Shah

TL/DR: Here’s a summary of the Cintrini Research as it relates to our school and our families.

We will soon be living in a “Ghost GDP” World

The Scenario in One Line

If AI makes white-collar “thinking work” cheap, incomes compress and spending weakens. In that world, organizations competing on features get priced like content. Communities that function as tribes become essential.

1) The Two Impending Futures: Choose The Game That Will Serve Your Family Best

Future A: The “Content School”

• Parents’ income becomes volatile (down 20–40% for many).

• They ask: “What am I paying for?”

• School answers: curriculum, apps, credentials.

• Parent conclusion: “We can get this cheaper. Maybe even do it ourselves.”

• Result: slow churn, then sudden collapse.

Future B: The “Trust Engine School”

• Parents’ income becomes volatile.

• School answers: identity, community, standards, mutual aid, apprenticeship pathways.

• Parent conclusion: “This keeps our children grounded, prepared, and our family connected.”

• Result: Acton becomes the last expense they will want to cut.

Punchline: In a downturn, features get cut. Tribes don’t.

2) The One Number That Predicts Resilience

Trust Density Score (TDS)

TDS = meaningful parent-to-parent touches per family per month

Meaningful = actual help, collaboration, hiring, mentoring, buying/selling, childcare swaps, referrals.

Benchmarks

• 0–1/month = tuition is just a transaction

• 2–3/month = community-ish

• 4–6/month = a resilient community

• 7+/month = the antifragile community

Interpretation

If TDS is low, you don’t have a community. You have a customer base.

3) The 5-Minute Campus Audit (We Are Doing This Today)

Write real numbers, not vibes:

1. Tuition Fragility

2. How many families would struggle if income dropped 25% for 12 months?

3. Community Liquidity

4. How many families can offer paid services to their fellow Acton families (legal, design, marketing, childcare, coaching, wellness, trades, etc.)?

5. Trust Density

6. What’s your current TDS guess?

If we can’t answer these, we’re running today’s playbook for tomorrow’s weather.

4) The Acton Anti-fragile Next Steps (started in Spring 2026)

Increase TDS by +2 next month. One ritual, implemented immediately.

High-leverage rituals:

• Parent skill directory + “Hire Inside” pledge

• Mutual Aid Friday (needs posted, offers posted, matched live)

• Apprenticeship Exchange sourced from parent businesses

• 3-intro rule (3 useful intros per family per quarter)

• Founders’ dinner quarterly (give-first norm)

Goal: Turn every campus into a small, high-trust economic network that produces agency in learners and optionality in families.

Acton Network Resilience Report (5–25 Year Projection)

Why “Trust Engines” Matter More Than Today’s Ops Debates

1) The Scenario Everyone’s Passing Around

Citrini Research: “The 2028 Global Intelligence Crisis” (this is a scenario simulation, not a prediction)

Here’s The Core Claim (in plain English)

AI and agentic automation drive white-collar displacement + wage compression, so even if productivity rises, money doesn’t circulate to humans (“Ghost GDP”), weakening consumer demand and stressing credit and asset prices.

Helpful mainstream context on how viral this became (for people who won’t read Substack):

• The Guardian explainer (Feb 24, 2026): https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/feb/24/feedback-loop-no-brake-how-ai-doomsday-report-rattled-markets

• Barron’s pushback framing it as a recurring “doomsday memo” pattern (Feb 25, 2026): https://www.barrons.com/articles/ai-economic-collapse-citrini-stock-market-50378a1d

2) The Acton-Relevant Insight

If intelligence becomes cheap, the scarce asset is trust.

Acton is already a “trust engine” (high repetition relationships, shared norms, accountability, strong culture, parent entrepreneurs). That’s exactly what tends to hold up when large institutions wobble.

3) 5–25 Year Threats, Opportunities, Challenges

A) 0–5 years: Volatility + parent anxiety + uneven affordability

Threats

• Tuition stress + churn risk as more families face income volatility (even if unemployment stats understate it). (citriniresearch.co

• Scholarship pressure increases (more “we love you, but…” conversations).

• AI-solutionism: parents chase tools and credentials instead of culture, agency, and community.

Opportunities

• Acton’s value proposition strengthens: in an AI world, parents will pay for agency, character, self-management, leadership (uniquely human compounding).

• “Entrepreneur density” becomes a moat: families transact, hire, mentor, and stabilize each other (local circulation).

Challenges

• You must operationalize “community” as an asset, not a vibe.

• Owners burn out if they try to solve macro stress with heroic personal effort (spoiler: they can’t).

B) 5–10 years: Parallel institutions + local networks outperform generic systems

Threats

• Bifurcation across campuses: strong-trust campuses thrive; weak-trust campuses become tuition-fragile.

• Regulatory attention rises as governments scramble for levers, and education is always a lever.

Opportunities

• Acton becomes a community institution, not just a school: apprenticeships, parent talent networks, micro-enterprise, mentorship ladders.

• Network-level advantages become decisive: shared playbooks, shared leadership formation, shared “culture enforcement” patterns.

Challenges

• Maintaining decentralization while preventing “brand drift” and uneven quality.

• Creating repeatable leadership formation (owners and guides) fast enough to keep up with growth and stress.

C) 10–25 years: Trust as infrastructure (winners are networks that compound cohesion)

Threats

• Education splits into: community institutions vs luxury goods.

• If “Ghost GDP” dynamics exist, many families will need a community to stay solvent, stable, and sane. (citriniresearch.com

Opportunities

• Acton can become a centuries-long institution if we behaves like one:

  • mission clarity

  • local adaptability

  • leadership formation

  • strong norms

  • mutual aid across nodes

Challenges

• The long game is governance and formation, not “better marketing.”

• Without intentional structure, networks don’t scale trust. They scale variance.

4) The Big Takeaway

“If Citrini is even half-right, the next decade rewards trust, not content. Acton’s strategic job isn’t to optimize for today’s ops. It’s to harden each campus into a local trust engine: dense relationships, shared norms, mutual aid, and real-world apprenticeship pathways. In a ‘Ghost GDP’ world, trust is infrastructure.”

5) The 3 Moves That Will Prepare Our Acton (And Your Family) For Either Future

1. Increase Density

   1. More repeated parent-to-parent interaction, shared commitments, and community rituals. Trust compounds through repetition.

2. Increase Circulation and Connections

   1. Make it normal for families to hire each other, buy from each other, mentor each other. Build a local “marketplace” layer that keeps money and opportunity moving.

3. Increase Formation

   1. Train owners and guides like this is a 50-year mission, not a 5-year small business. Trust engines fail when standards drift.

Here’s a Bit More Detail For Parents Who Feel This Just Cannot Be Happening

We’ve spent the last few years debating when AI will “take our jobs.” According to a recent study from Anthropic, that shift isn’t a looming shadow anymore—it’s already reshaping the entry-level market. By cross-referencing Claude’s actual capabilities with real-world usage, the study reveals a workforce in transition.

The Metrics: “Observed Exposure”

Unlike theoretical studies, Anthropic used a metric called “observed exposure.” This measures the overlap between tasks AI can do and the tasks users are already asking it to automate. It’s less about what might happen and more about what is happening in the trenches of the digital economy.

Who’s at Risk (and Who Isn’t)?

The data paints a clear picture of which industries are feeling the heat:

• Computer Programmers: Topping the list with a staggering 75% task coverage.

• Customer Service & Data Entry: Not far behind at 67%.

• The “Safe” Zone: Roughly one-third of the U.S. workforce currently has zero AI exposure. These are primarily “hands-on” roles that require physical presence and manual dexterity—think bartenders, cooks, and lifeguards.

The “Silent” Impact on Gen Z

While we haven’t seen a massive, headline-grabbing spike in general unemployment since the 2022 launch of ChatGPT, the “squeeze” is happening at the bottom of the ladder.

Since late 2022, hiring for 22-to-25-year-olds in AI-exposed fields has dropped by 14%. Companies aren’t necessarily firing their veterans yet, but they are increasingly hesitant to hire the next generation for roles that an LLM can handle for a fraction of the cost.

The Bottom Line

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has been vocal about the coming disruption, and the market is listening—we’ve already seen industry stock prices dip following major Claude releases.

Despite these blinking red lights, the global economy remains drastically underprepared. We aren’t just looking at a future shift; we are witnessing the slow-motion closing of the door for entry-level white-collar workers. The question is no longer if the disruption is coming, but how we support a workforce that is already feeling the pinch.

The Generational Divide is Real

There is a growing “tech schizophrenia” in how we perceive these tools. Older generations often treat AI as a glorified search engine - Google with a personality. Meanwhile, Millennials and Gen Z are integrating it as a life partner: a companion, therapist, health coach, and tireless tutor.

This creates a massive friction point in our institutions:

• Education: Educators fear AI is dismantling the foundation of learning, while the students using it argue it’s the most powerful educational tool ever conceived.

• Corporate Policy: While companies and schools scramble to ban or block access, the individuals embracing the tech are essentially becoming superhuman, augmenting their output at a pace traditional structures can’t track.

The Great Divergence Is Already Started

The institutions haven’t caught up, and they likely won’t in time. This creates a definitive fork in the road. Over the next five years, the gap between those who leverage AI and those who resist it won’t just be a matter of preference, it will define the winners and losers of the new economy.

As Peter Diamandis keeps reminding us. Choose your side carefully.

Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss:

1. TONIGHT | Mini Muse at the NSU Art Museum. Free drop-in art-making project. Open to all skill sets. Create alongside families, artists, and neighbors.

2. ALSO Tonight | Devon Allman's Blues Summit. Featuring the Devon Allman Project, Jimmy Hall, Larry McCray, and Laka Soul. Blues legends on one stage — a rare gathering.

3. Friday | Free movie for 12 and under at Savor Cinema. Come see Time Hoppers: The Silk Road follows the adventures of four gifted children from Vancouver’s Aqli Academy in the year 2050.

4. Friday | Aladdin (Presented by Heroes of Hip Hop). The Disney classic reimagined by Heroes of Hip Hop. Fresh take on "A Whole New World.".

5. Also Friday | One Night of Queen Performed by Gary Mullen and The Works. Part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series. A legendary tribute to the greatest band ever — all the hits, the magic, the energy.

6. Saturday and Sunday | Fort Lauderdale Air Show. Two-day aerial spectacular featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and F-22 Raptor Demo Team. Breathtaking formations, speed, and precision. Bring beach chairs and arrive early for best viewing. FREE admission.

7. Saturday Morning | Want a great way to do some good while also watching the jets fly overhead? Come out for this month’s Beach Sweep.

8. Saturday | Creativity Exploration: Wander in Watercolor. A guided watercolor exploration workshop. Learn technique while creating alongside an instructor.

9. Saturday Afternoon | The Art of FLO. This dynamic showcase brings together unique artists of all abilities, blending poetry, music, and performances into one unforgettable night.

10. Saturday Music | Pop Up Music In the Park. Huizenga has a full slate of events all week. But if you want to quiet Saturday evening, mosey on over for music in the park.

11. Saturday Night Dancing | Konpa Pompano Beach! Feel the rhythm and energy for an exciting dance workshop celebrating Haitian Heritage Month and one of Haiti’s most iconic dance styles

12. Also Saturday and Sunday | Miami City Ballet. Paul Taylor’s Company B kicks things off with swing, sass, and the irresistible harmonies of The Andrews Sisters—an all-American dance party with vintage flair.

13. Sunday to Tuesday | Don’t Rain On My Parade - The Music of Barbara Streisand. Features new orchestrations, highlighting Streisand’s timeless hits alongside hidden gems from her vast repertoire. This will be an unforgettable tribute to one of the most iconic voices of all time.

14. SAVE THE DATE - May 16 | Smoke On The Water BBQ Feast. This annual festival will bring together top pitmasters, BBQ enthusiasts, and food lovers for an assortment of smoked and grilled fare.

😉​ Hey - quick question. Did we miss anything? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Featured Fort Lauderdale

You Might See Us… Before You Hear Our Roar 🛩️

This week (practice) and this weekend (the big show) the FTL skies will be filled with the latest jets for the 2026 Fort Lauderdale Air Show.

For two days, the pristine sands of Fort Lauderdale Beach will transform into the ultimate front-row seat for one of the most prestigious aerial displays in the country. Whether you’re a die-hard aviation enthusiast or just looking for a spectacular way to spend a family weekend, this year’s lineup is set to be one for the history books.

The roar you’ll hear over the Atlantic comes courtesy of some of the world’s most elite pilots. This year, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds headline the event, showcasing their world-famous “diamond” formation and mind-bending precision maneuvers in their signature red, white, and blue F-16 Fighting Falcons.

Joining them is the F-22 Raptor Demo Team. Watching this fifth-generation stealth fighter perform gravity-defying “cobra” turns and hovering maneuvers is a visceral experience that truly has to be seen (and felt) to be believed.

Other scheduled acts include:

• U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet demonstrations

• The Red Bull Helicopter (performing aerobatics usually impossible for a chopper!)

• SOCOM Para-Commandos skydiving team

• A-10 Thunderbolt II (the legendary “Warthog”)

Pro Tips for the Best Experience

The air show is a massive event, and a little planning goes a long way:

1. Arrive Early: Gates to the premium viewing areas open at 9:00 AM, and the flight performances typically run from 11:45 AM to approximately 3:00 PM. Beach space fills up fast!

2. Location, Location: The “Show Center” is located on State Road A1A, centered near Sunrise Blvd. While you can see the jets from miles away, the closer you are to the Sunrise Blvd area, the better the acoustics and low-altitude views.

3. Pack the Essentials: Bring plenty of sunscreen, ear protection (it gets loud!), and a comfortable beach chair. If you aren’t in a ticketed area, remember to pack plenty of water to stay hydrated under the Florida sun.

4. Know Your Options: While the show is free to view from most of the beach, there are upgraded “Drop Zone” and VIP options available at FortLauderdaleAirShow.com if you want dedicated restrooms and narrated commentary.

Getting There

With A1A closed to through traffic in the show zone, parking can be a challenge. Consider using ride-share services, the Brightline, or the Water Taxi to avoid the gridlock. If you must drive, the Galleria Mall offers paid parking with a short walk over the bridge to the beach.

The Forecast: Clear skies and roaring engines. We’ll see you on the sand!

So... You Think You Know South Florida

You probably already know... every community is proud of its young people.

What you might not know... is just how much talent is being practiced all around us.

Some of them are musical. Our own daughter is getting ready for the year-ending concert of the Florida Youth Orchestra (she plays cello).

For others, they stand in the brightest lights on stage.

From candy factories to magic carpets, our local students are taking over some of the region’s biggest stages this week. If you’re looking for a dose of creative energy, here is your roadmap to the best student productions and celebrations happening right now.

Whether you’re a fan of classic Roald Dahl or Disney magic, there’s a seat waiting for you:

• Willy Wonka Jr. (Katz Yeshiva High School)

  • When: Opens Thursday, May 7

  • Where: The Miniaci Performing Arts Center

• Aladdin (Heroes of Hip Hop)

  • When: Friday, May 8

  • Where: Broward Center for the Performing Arts

• Little Mermaid Jr. (Posnack School)

  • When: Wednesday, May 13

  • Where: Aventura Arts & Cultural Center

And The Grand Finale: The South Florida Cappies

Think of it as the Oscars of High School Theater. On Monday, May 12, the 24th Annual South Florida Cappies Gala arrives at the Broward Center.

This isn’t just any awards show—it’s the culmination of a year where student critics review each other’s work, fostering a genuine community of young artists. It is a high-energy, deeply moving night that celebrates the grit, talent, and passion of the next generation of performers.

Pro Tip: If you have even a passing connection to the arts, the Cappies Gala is a “don’t miss” event. The talent on display will leave you feeling very good about the future of the stage!

Supporting local theater has never looked (or sounded) so good. See you at the show!

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1300+ local families for just $100)

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

• The Opulent Reset. For the woman who built it all, and forgot herself inside of it. A private four-day return to yourself on the white-sand shores of Turks & Caicos.

• The Wharf Fort Lauderdale | Riverfront outdoor venue with weekly events: 2-for-1 martinis Thursdays, Seaciety Saturdays (beer buckets + live music), and Big Sunday Energy Sundays. Free RSVP on Eventbrite. 🔗 https://www.wharfftl.com

• NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale | One of South Florida’s premier contemporary art museums. Current exhibitions: Selma is Now (through June 27) and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel (through June 14). Free First Thursday every first Thursday of the month, 11 AM–7 PM. 🔗 https://nsuartmuseum.org

• Children heading off unhappily to school for another dreary day? Have you looked at Acton? The model is pretty different from a traditional school, and it seems to click for many who are not thriving in a standard classroom. Book a visit to see for yourself.

• Pioneer Wednesdays is a special program designed to give back to the Fort Lauderdale community by offering residents free admission to the Historic Stranahan House Museum every Wednesday during operating hours. This initiative invites locals to explore the city’s rich history, connect with its pioneering roots, and experience one of Fort Lauderdale’s most significant landmarks at no cost.

• Rhythms School of Dance is a training center for Indian Classical dance, Bharatanatyam. Promoting priceless artistic traditions of India through professional training and student performances.

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1250+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Quote Of The Week

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”

~ Pablo Picasso

Pablo Picasso was a Spanish painter, sculptor, and co-founder of Cubism, widely considered one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

Flotsam & Jetsam

With so much going on in the world, and even in the skies above us - here’s the answer to a simple question…

Ever Wondered Where Your Hard-Earned Cash Actually Lands?

We all know that sinking feeling when we look at a pay stub and see a chunk of change heading off to the federal government. But once that money leaves your bank account, where does it actually go? If you’ve ever wanted to demand an itemized receipt for your citizenship, MyTaxReceipt is the digital tool you didn’t know you needed.

The “Receipt” for Your Reality

Most of us think of federal spending in abstract trillions, which is impossible to wrap a human brain around. MyTaxReceipt fixes that by making it personal. Here’s how the magic happens:

• The Data: Simply pop in your Zip code and the amount you paid in Federal taxes (if you don’t have your return handy, the site can provide a localized average for your area).

• The Breakdown: It generates a sleek, “grocery-store style” receipt that translates those massive federal budgets into actual dollar amounts from your pocket.

• The Reveal: You’ll see exactly how many of your dollars went toward National Defense, Medicare, and Social Security, but the real eye-openers are the smaller line items. Seeing the specific amount you contributed to Interest on National Debt or National Parks turns a political debate into a personal ledger.

From “Eye-Opening” to “Action-Taking”

It’s one thing to see your receipt; it’s another thing to speak to the manager. One of the coolest features of the site is the “Message Congress” button. If you look at your receipt and think, “I’d rather see more of my money going toward education and less toward subsidies,” you can send your spending priorities directly to your representatives with a single click.

The Verdict: Whether you want to be a more informed voter or you just love a good data visualization, this tool is a fascinating rabbit hole. It’s a rare moment of transparency in a world of complex spreadsheets.

Curious to see your total? Check out the breakdown and decide for yourself if you’re getting your money’s worth.

Word Play Of The Week

“the whole nine yards”

Everything; the full extent of something. Exact origin disputed, but widely used in American English since at least the 1960s. One theory traces it to WWII aircraft machine gun belts, which were nine yards long — to give someone the whole nine yards meant to fire every round you had. ~ ​Source

‘Under-The-Radar’ Openings Job Board

Here’s a new section that we are debuting this week with our transition to Substack.

• Open position at MODS. Science Facilities & Exhibits. High school diploma and minimum two (2) years’ experience performing building preventive and/or exhibit maintenance.

• MODS is also looking for a Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Serving as a strategic partner to the President & CEO and senior leadership, providing financial stewardship and operational oversight in support of the Museum’s mission.

• FIFA 2026 is looking for a Senior Content Manager. Because if you didn’t hear, football (no, not that football) is coming to South Florida in a big way.

• Part-time openings at the Broward Center. Head usher, bartenders, and event staff. Even a teaching artist position.

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #FFFTL every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss:

1. TONIGHT | Crossfit at Huizenga Park. Join Flagler Village CrossFit for a fun, fast‑paced fitness session designed for all levels. Warm up, crush a 20‑minute circuit workout, strengthen that core, and cool down with a relaxing stretch.

2. Friday | Artwalk at Thrive Art District. Monthly first-of-the-month art walk — local galleries, artists, and a free night out downtown.

3. Also Friday | Best of Broadway: Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber and More!. A showcase of Broadway classics featuring the iconic music of Andrew Lloyd Webber.

4. Saturday | The Mayor’s Chess Challenge is coming to Riverland Park. Join families, elected officials, and community leaders for free and friendly meetups at the 11th Annual Mayors’ Chess Challenge series in support of scholastic chess! Players of all ages and skill levels are welcome.

5. Saturday | NSU Art Museum – Museums on Us (Saturday). FREE admission for Bank of America cardholders — one of South Florida's best contemporary art museums. Just swipe your card.

6. Saturday | Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida: Spring Gala. 32 dancers close the season with the U.S. premiere of Issaev's Polovtsian Dances. Free 30-minute pre-show Arts Ballet Encounters talk at 7:00 PM.

7. Saturday Night | America: The Happy Trails Tour 2026. Classic rock legends ("A Horse With No Name," "Ventura Highway") bring their farewell tour to Fort Lauderdale.

8. Sunday | Sunday Jazz Brunch at Esplanade Park. FREE outdoor jazz on THREE stages along the Riverwalk — first Sunday of each month (May–Dec). Well-behaved leashed dogs welcome. Bring chairs, blankets, and a picnic basket.

9. Sunday | A Ukrainian Montage. The Ukrainian Dancers of Miami perform a powerful evening of Ukrainian cultural dance and music.

10. Monday | Free Star Wars Outdoor Film. May the 4th Be With You on Monday night as Free Movie In The Park hosts Return of the Jedi starting at 8pm.

11. Tuesday | Youth Spring Musical – Fiddler on the Roof JR.. Students grades 4–10 perform the Tony Award-winning classic. Two shows on May 5 (6 PM & 8 PM) plus May 6 (8 PM).

12. SAVE THE DATE | May 9th | Free movie for 12 and under at Savor Cinema. Come see Time Hoppers: The Silk Road follows the adventures of four gifted children from Vancouver’s Aqli Academy in the year 2050.

😉​ Hey - quick question. Did we miss anything? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Featured Fort Lauderdale

The Biggest of the Cruise Ships Now Calls Fort Lauderdale Home

We have some exciting news for our local travel community! Royal Caribbean has officially announced a major shift in its 2027 lineup: the massive Symphony of the Seas will be repositioning from Galveston, Texas, to its new homeport right here at Port Everglades.

Why this matters for Fort Lauderdale: This isn’t just a win for cruise fans; it’s a major boost for our local economy. As one of the world’s largest Oasis-class ships, the Symphony brings thousands of visitors to our city every week. For our local businesses, hotels, and restaurants, this means a steady “surge” of tourism as travelers fly in to explore Fort Lauderdale before heading out to sea.

What to expect: Starting in 2027, Symphony of the Seas will offer a mix of 6- and 8-night Caribbean itineraries departing from Fort Lauderdale. Whether it’s a quick getaway to the Bahamas or an extended tour of the Eastern and Western Caribbean, one of the crown jewels of the Royal Caribbean fleet will be just a short drive away for FFFTL members.

The “Venice of America” Advantage: Royal Caribbean noted that this move is part of their strategic itinerary planning to meet guest demand. And we know why. There’s no better way to start a vacation than with a stay in the “Venice of America” before boarding a world-class vessel.

Keep an eye on the Port Everglades schedule for more updates, and get ready to see that iconic silhouette back on our horizon!

*** Want to read the full story? Check out the details here.

So... You Think You Know South Florida

You probably already know... South Florida is sunny and full of harvest goodies.

What you might not know... you can purchase fresh, locally harvested honey from a 24-hour vending machine?

Located in the rural community of Southwest Ranches, the HealthierToGo honey vending machine offers a modern twist on the traditional farm stand. This self-serve roadside stop provides jars of golden honey sourced from local hives, offering a taste of “Old Florida” charm tucked away from the city’s busier corridors.

Whether you are looking for a natural sweetener or simply want to explore the scenic backroads of Broward County, this hidden gem at 5010 SW 166th Ave is a unique destination for residents and visitors alike.

You can see this local curiosity in action here: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1290149642715186 (Special thanks to Visit Lauderdale for the find.)

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1300+ local families for just $100)

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

• The Opulent Reset. For the woman who built it all, and forgot herself inside of it. A private four-day return to yourself on the white-sand shores of Turks & Caicos.

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1250+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Quote Of The Week

Over 25,000 people a month walk through the new Huizenga Park, but not many realize these wise words are on display on the eastern side of the green. I shared this same quote with our Acton friends who recently visited FTL.

Now… let’s go make it happen!

Flotsam & Jetsam

I love seeing a simple idea, executed well. Hisorty is that kind of game. Elegantly simple on the outside. Just test your sense of historical timelines. You get 6 cards from different moments in history, and you decide in which order they should organized.

For example, which date came first… the defeat of the Spanish Armada or the completion of the Hagia Sofia? And was that before or after Sir Issac Newton published his work Principia? Test your knowledge (just takes a minute) and see how. you score!

Word Play Of The Week

“Steal Someone’s Thunder”

To “Steal Someone’s Thunder” means to take credit for someone else’s idea or achievement, or to upstage someone by doing or saying something that draws attention away from them.

This idiom has a fascinating theatrical origin. In the early 1700s, English dramatist John Dennis invented a new method of creating stage thunder for his play Appius and Virginia. The play wasn’t successful, but his thunder technique was. Shortly after, Dennis attended a performance of “Macbeth” and heard his thunder effect being used. He reportedly exclaimed, “Damn them! They will not let my play run, but they steal my thunder!” ~ ​Source

‘Under-The-Radar’ Openings Job Board

Here’s a new section that we are debuting this week with our transition to Substack.

• Open position at MODS. Science Facilities & Exhibits. High school diploma and minimum two (2) years’ experience performing building preventive and/or exhibit maintenance.

• MODS is also looking for a Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Serving as a strategic partner to the President & CEO and senior leadership, providing financial stewardship and operational oversight in support of the Museum’s mission.

• FIFA 2026 is looking for a Senior Content Manager. Because if you didn’t hear, football (no, not that football) is coming to South Florida in a big way.

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #FFFTL every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss:

1. Thursday | Ottmar Liebert and Luna Negra. New Flamenco / Spanish guitar. Romantic, atmospheric. Perfect date night. Tickets via Ticketmaster.

2. Also Thursday | The Rush Tribute Project. Part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series. Rush tribute for the classic rock crowd. Tickets via Ticketmaster.

3. Friday Night | Movie on the Lawn: The Secret Life of Pets. Bring a blanket, bring the kids, bring the dog. Outdoor screening of the beloved animated film. FREE.

4. Friday | Art@Night: Garden Party. Monthly outdoor arts gathering with garden setting. Good for adults and teens.

5. Also Friday | Candlelight: Queen vs. ABBA. Live string ensemble plays Queen vs. ABBA by candlelight. Sophisticated, all-ages, visually stunning. From $26.50.

6. Saturday | Huizenga Park x lululemon Wellness Day. Outdoor wellness event in partnership with lululemon. Movement, mindfulness, community vibes. Easy Saturday morning activity. FREE.

7. Saturday | Fire Museum Open House. Located in the beautifully restored 1927 Fire Station No. 3, the Fort Lauderdale Fire and Safety Museum honors our city’s firefighters

8. Also Saturday | City of North Lauderdale Mayor Community Fun Night: Motown Edition. Mayor-hosted community night featuring Motown music. Classic, family-friendly, all-ages. Free community event.

9. Or on Saturday | The Office! A Musical Parody (still running). Running through May 3.

10. Sunday Morning | MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale 5K. Thousands of walkers, runners, strollers, wheelchair athletes, dogs and supporters of all ages will come together in downtown Fort Lauderdale to take steps to raise awareness and funds to end impaired driving for good.

11. Sunday | Kids Creative Studio. Hands-on art-making for kids. Pompano Beach arts programming.

12. Also Sunday | NSU Art Museum: FREE Fort Lauderdale Neighbor Day. FREE for Fort Lauderdale residents with proof of address/ID. World-class contemporary art.

13. Or on Sunday | Plantation Walk 2nd Annual Autism Awareness Car and Truck Show. 2nd annual event for Autism Awareness Month. Family-friendly, free, community-centered. All types of vehicles displayed. FREE.

14. This Weekend | Miami Maker’s Faire. A full weekend of robots, inventions, art, technology, and hands-on activities for the whole family. Meet other incredible makers, explore interactive exhibits, and discover the future of innovation.

15. Monday | Broward Women Chorus Spring Concert: Imagine. Choral spring concert at a beloved Fort Lauderdale institution.

😉​ Hey - quick question. Did we miss anything? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Featured Fort Lauderdale

End of an Era: The Last Stand of Bob’s News & Books

If you’ve lived in Fort Lauderdale for more than five minutes, you know the neon sign at 1515 S. Andrews Ave. For over 50 years, Bob’s News & Books has been the “last stop before the airport” and a defiant survivor in a world that went digital decades ago.

But according to a recent report by the Sun Sentinel, this local landmark is officially on the clock. Broward Health has placed Bob’s—along with 11 other neighboring properties—on its acquisition list to make room for a massive hospital expansion.

Why Bob’s is “Wonderfully Weird”

Walking into Bob’s isn’t just about buying a paper; it’s an assault on the senses. It is one of the last places in Florida where you can find a glossy fashion magazine from Italy, a banned 1950s novel, a pack of imported cigars, and a lucky scratch-off ticket in a single trip.

• Three Generations of Grit: Originally purchased in 1975 by Seth Cohen and his family, the shop has stayed in the family for three generations. Current owner Erin Steinberg has been working those narrow, jam-packed aisles since 1996.

• The “Outlaw” Aesthetic: While most bookstores look like libraries, Bob’s looks like a rebellious time capsule. They famously embrace their “edgy” side, featuring large signs for banned books, a massive adult section behind the curtain, and an inventory that includes everything from Newtonian mathematics to vintage maps.

• The Neighborhood Hub: Before the nurses at Broward Health start their shifts, they’re at Bob’s grabbing snacks. Before travelers hit FLL, they’re at Bob’s grabbing a “Foreign News” print. It is a fusion of a smoke shop, a high-brow literary archive, and a neighborhood convenience store.

What Happens Now?

The Tampa Bay Times once called Bob’s “one of Florida’s last newsstands,” and they weren’t exaggerating. As print distribution was slashed and other newsstands folded, Bob’s survived by “going into survival mode”—adding beer coolers and snacks to keep the lights on while maintaining their massive collection of rare titles.

With Broward Health moving forward with their expansion plans, the question isn’t just about a building being torn down—it’s about losing a piece of Fort Lauderdale’s “anti-corporate” soul.

Our Take: Whether you go for the “I Read Banned Books” T-shirts, the obscure magazines, or just the nostalgic smell of old paper, now is the time to visit. We might be watching the final chapter of a story that’s been written one daily edition at a time for half a century.

What’s your favorite Bob’s memory? Did you find a rare book there? Or maybe you’ve been buying your Sunday paper from the same counter for 30 years?

So... You Think You Know South Florida

You probably already know... we are called “Fort Lauderdale” because… the city started with a military fort as its first beginnings.

What you might not know... there were actually four different “Fort Lauderdale’s” because the early days were not so easy.

• The Original (March 1838): Major William Lauderdale and his 200 Tennessee Volunteers built the first stockade at the fork of the New River (near present-day SW 9th Ave).

• The Relocation (Feb 1839): After the first was destroyed, a second fort was built at Tarpon Bend.

• The Beachfront (Sept 1839): The third and most famous fort was moved right to the beach—specifically where the Bahia Mar parking lot sits today.

• The Final Stand: A smaller, final iteration existed before the military eventually abandoned the area in 1842.

And Major Lauderdale Only Spent One Month Here

Major William Lauderdale built a fort here in March 1838 during the Second Seminole War and stayed approximately one month.

It was the ultimate “short-term stay” success story. Major William Lauderdale arrived in March 1838, built the fort, and stayed approximately one month before departing for Fort Jupiter. The Seminoles reclaimed the land and destroyed the fort a few months later, but his name lived on.

Imagine spending 30 days in a swampy outpost and having a world-famous city named after you nearly 200 years later!

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1300+ local families for just $100)

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

• Huizenga Park — Free Programming - Downtown’s newly renovated 3.6-acre park offers free fitness classes, rotating food vendors, public art, and 150+ events this year.

• Museum of Discovery & Science (MODS) - Home to the current HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever exhibit, the Everglades Airboat Adventure, river otters, and an IMAX theater — MODS is the go-to for a full day of hands-on science fun for all ages.

• Smorgasburg South Florida - The “Woodstock of eating” has moved from Wynwood to Fort Lauderdale — 45+ food vendors, a floating boat bar, zero admission, every Saturday and Sunday noon to 8pm at 563 NE 2nd St in Flagler Village.

• Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition - The world’s largest traveling reproduction of the Sistine Chapel ceiling is on display at Galleria Fort Lauderdale through June — an awe-inspiring immersive experience that’s a lot easier than flying to Rome.

• Bonnet House Museum and Gardens. Come visit the historic estate, gardens, and tours in Fort Lauderdale.

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1250+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Quote Of The Week

“The right local questions and answers will be the right global ones.”

~ Wendell Berry

Wendell Berry is a poet and environmental activist.

Flotsam & Jetsam

Today’s selections are from the "Can You Believe This?" Corner.

Can you believe it? Part 1: Prego is Selling a Hockey Puck?

We’ve seen some strange news in Broward, but this one takes the (pasta) cake. Prego - the people who usually just help you get dinner on the table, just released a new gadget called the Connection Keeper.

It’s a hockey puck-shaped microphone designed to sit in the middle of your table. For $20, you get a bundle with a jar of sauce, a deck of conversation cards, and the device. But here is the kicker:

• Zero Tech: No Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth, and no AI.

• The Goal: It’s a “digital time capsule.” You hit record, put your phones away, and actually talk to your kids.

• The Archive: You can plug it into your computer and even donate the audio to the Library of Congress to preserve your family’s history forever.

I don’t know if this is a sign that the AI apocalypse is upon us, or a heartening example of families getting back to the basics.

Can you believe it? Part 2: The $3 Digital Ghost

If the “pasta puck” was a return to basics, this next one is the reason people are scared of the future. A Chinese startup called Super Brain is turning grief into a high-tech subscription service.

For as little as $3, they will build an AI clone of a deceased loved one.

• How it works: You upload photos, videos, and voice recordings. Their AI recreates the person’s face and speech patterns so accurately you can “video chat” with them.

• The Scale: This isn’t a niche hobby; the “Grief Tech” industry is already worth billions of dollars. People are using it to get advice from late parents or “tuck in” children who have passed away.

We want to know where the Fort Lauderdale community stands on this tech divide. Cast your vote below:

Word Play Of The Week

“Under the Weather”

Feeling sick or unwell with a nautical origin. Sailors who were seasick went below deck to be sheltered from the weather. Entered common usage in the early 19th century. ~ ​Source

‘Under-The-Radar’ Openings Job Board

Here’s a new section that we are debuting this week with our transition to Substack.

• MODS has three positions open (two PT and one FT) that might be of interest to folks in our community. There is an Early Childhood position, an Animal Husbandry position for their corals, and a Science Facilitator for their Turtle Walks. How cool are these jobs!

• FIFA 2026 is looking for a Senior Content Manager. Because if you didn’t hear, football (no, not that football) is coming to South Florida in a big way.

• TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY JOB FAIR - APRIL 29, 2026 10AM – 12PM Launch Your Future in IT Connect with hiring managers and explore advanced roles that match your expertise. Expand your professional network by attending this event.

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #FFFTL every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

Also, there is another post we wrote last week that might be of interest, especially to any of you who are economically-minded or who read the Centrini Research that caused such a stir earlier this year. Turns out… trust (not just attention) is all you need.

Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss:

1. Wednesday | Grace Kelly Quartet — Gold Coast Jazz 20th Anniversary. Grammy-nominated musician Grace Kelly celebrates her 20th anniversary as a performer with an intimate jazz set at the Broward Center — a rare date-night gem. (April 15th).

2. Also Wednesday | The Office! A Musical Parody. The Dunder Mifflin gang takes to the stage in this fan-adored comedy parody — catch it at the Broward Center's Off Center Series. Not your average night out.

3. Friday | Las Olas Wine & Food Festival — 30th Anniversary. (Adults 21+ only) Fort Lauderdale's longest-running charitable food festival closes out four blocks of Las Olas with 40+ restaurants, 200 wines and spirits, and a 90s-themed VIP lounge — all benefiting the American Lung Association. Great date night.

4. Friday, ONLY April 17th - 7:00pm | The AI Doc at Savor Cinema. A father-to-be grapples with the explosive risks and revolutionary potential of AI and the world his child will inherit. Audiences will be confronted with a stark wake-up call that explores the existential dangers and extraordinary promise of this rapidly rising technology.

5. Friday | Peppa Pig: My First Concert. Peppa and her family bounce, splash, and sing their way onto The Parker stage — the perfect first live concert experience for your littlest family members.

6. Saturday | Jazz Fest Pompano Beach (FREE — 5th Annual). Two FREE days of world-class jazz, Grammy winners, South Florida talent, and a beachside culinary village on Pompano Beach's oceanfront — 1pm to 10pm both days. Don't miss it.

7. Saturday | Downtown Hollywood ArtWalk. Explore local galleries, meet artists, and enjoy live music winding through the streets of downtown Hollywood every third Saturday evening — free and wonderfully family-friendly.

8. Saturday | BCL Earth Day Fun Day — Broward County Library. Join the Broward County Library for their 4th annual Earth Day Fun Day — beach cleanup, conservation awareness activities, and crafts for all ages. Participants earn service hours. Registration required.

9. Saturday | SAVOR SoFLO Food & Wine Festival. Hollywood Beach transforms into a 25,000+ sq ft culinary playground with 40+ top chefs, unlimited tastings, craft beers, and fine wines right behind the Margaritaville Resort — this is the weekend splurge.

10. Saturday | Relay For Life — Broward County. Join your Broward neighbors for the American Cancer Society's inspiring community walkathon — an uplifting evening of collective hope and action against cancer.

11. Sunday | ZimSculpt at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens (LAST DAY). Don't miss the final day to see 2,000+ hand-carved Zimbabwean stone sculptures spread across Bonnet House's gorgeous 35-acre estate — two live artists have been carving on-site all season. LAST DAY.

12. Till The End of The Month | HAIRSPRAY. The beloved Broadway musical about big hair, bigger dreams, and the fight for integration comes to life at the Broward Center courtesy of Slow Burn Theatre Co. — running through April 26.

😉​ Hey - quick question. Did we miss anything? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Featured Fort Lauderdale

World’s Aquatic Treasure Is Hiding in Plain Sight

Fort Lauderdale is the “Venice of America,” famous for its stunning coastline and world-class boating. You’ve likely driven past the iconic towers of the International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF) a thousand times while looking for beach parking.

That building isn’t just a local pool—it is the world’s only museum dedicated entirely to the history of aquatic sports. Nestled right in our backyard is a global landmark housing over 60,000 artifacts, spanning everything from the evolution of synchronized swimming to the high-intensity world of water polo.

The facility is a titan in the sporting world, having hosted Olympic Trials and prestigious World Championships. Yet, despite its international fame, most Fort Lauderdale residents have never stepped foot inside. With two Olympic-size pools and interactive exhibits, it’s one of the city’s best-kept secrets for a family day out—especially since admission is free for children under 12.

Next time you’re at the beach, skip the souvenir shops and dive into a piece of global history that belongs to Fort Lauderdale.

So... You Think You Know South Florida

You probably already know... That HAIRSPRAY is a high-energy, feel-good musical about Tracy Turnblad’s quest to integrate a TV dance show in 1962 Baltimore. It’s a story of courage, catchy tunes, and the fight for equality that families have loved for decades. And playing at Fort Lauderdale’s Slow Burn Theatre.

What you might not know... While Baltimore was dancing toward progress, Fort Lauderdale was fighting its own battle for the sand. Until 1962, Fort Lauderdale Beach was whites-only by law, and Black residents were relegated to a distant beach in Dania with no road access.

On July 4, 1961—just one year before the setting of HAIRSPRAY—local NAACP leader Eula Johnson and Dr. Von D. Mizell led the first courageous “wade-ins” right here on our shores. They were met by KKK members carrying axes, but they refused to back down. The city sued to stop them and lost, leading to the legal desegregation of Broward’s beaches in 1962.

As HAIRSPRAY opens this week, it’s the perfect moment for families to talk about the real-life heroes who integrated our own “dance floor” here in South Florida. Most locals still don’t know this story—let’s make sure the next generation does.

🔗 Learn more about the history of Florida’s segregated beaches.

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1300+ local families for just $100)

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

• Smorgasburg South Florida - The “Woodstock of eating” has moved from Wynwood to Fort Lauderdale — 45+ food vendors, a floating boat bar, zero admission, every Saturday and Sunday noon to 8pm at 563 NE 2nd St in Flagler Village.

• Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition - The world’s largest traveling reproduction of the Sistine Chapel ceiling is on display at Galleria Fort Lauderdale through June — an awe-inspiring immersive experience that’s a lot easier than flying to Rome.

• Museum of Discovery & Science (MODS) - Home to the current HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever exhibit, the Everglades Airboat Adventure, river otters, and an IMAX theater — MODS is the go-to for a full day of hands-on science fun for all ages.

• Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale - Hop on and off at 20+ stops along Fort Lauderdale’s waterways — from Las Olas to Bahia Mar, the Intracoastal, and all the way to Hollywood’s Margaritaville. All-day passes available; captains narrate the whole ride.

• Huizenga Park — Free Programming - Downtown’s newly renovated 3.6-acre park offers free fitness classes, rotating food vendors, public art, and 150+ events this year

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1250+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Quote Of The Week

“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”

~ Jacques Cousteau, the French oceanographer, filmmaker, inventor, and environmentalist who revolutionized underwater exploration.

Flotsam & Jetsam

Did you know that parents these days are anxious about their adult children’s job prospects as they graduate and head into the working world?

How anxious?

Turns out some parents are spending as much as $50,000 (above and beyond the cost of University) to hire career coaches in the hopes that it will help their graduate land a position in challenging job markets.

And those are just the parents willing to shill out extra to help. Several studies have shown that between 20% (that’s high for the low end) and 77% of Gen Z job seekers have brought their parents with them to a job interview, hoping to add extra oomph to their pitch. Really. 👀

Let me share something you might not know about Acton…

Our little school (and 300+ Actons worldwide) start apprenticeships at age 13. In fact, our Middle School studio (ages 11 to 15) just started this week, researching and writing their pitches for apprenticeships they will land this spring and summer.

By the time they graduate, they will have 5-6 real work experiences (no job shadows or ponying coffee), with hundreds of work hours and accountability to mentors already working in the fields they feel might be their calling.

And no parents involved. 😎

Beats a $50k bill for trying to put your thumb on the scale doesn’t it?

Word Play Of The Week

To "Jump the shark"

The moment something has clearly passed its peak quality or relevance.

Made famous by a 1977 Happy Days episode where Fonzie literally water-skied over a shark. TV critic Jon Hein coined the phrase in 1985. Fort Lauderdale note: our waters have real sharks — we're consistently in Florida's top shark-encounter zones. ~ ​Source

‘Under-The-Radar’ Openings Job Board

Here’s a new section that we are debuting this week with our transition to Substack.

• Jellyfish Museum in Pompano Beach is HIRING! Cleaners, cashiers and tour guides. Please send resumes to info@jellyfish-museum.com.

• Teaching Artist (Contract). Broward Center for the Performing Arts is currently recruiting creative and dynamic Teaching Artists interested in being part of our education programs.

• Video Producer - InteleTravel, the world’s largest and most established host agency, is looking for a Video Producer candidate to tell compelling stories of our brand, travel advisors, tools, and more through video and graphics.

Got a job or position you would like to post? Send us the details.

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #FFFTL every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss:

1. Friday | The Pineapple Jam at the Historic Stranahan House & Museum. Come join this major fundraiser for the most historic home in Fort Lauderdale. 300 community leaders, adorned in tropical chic attire, will come together to celebrate both Fort Lauderdale’s history and the future.

2. Also Fridays | Friday Night Sound Waves Concert at Fort Lauderdale Beach Free beachfront live music kicking off the weekend. Bring a blanket, kids, and good vibes. The next morning you can visit The MKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park Beach market with artisans and local vendors steps from the ocean. 9am-5pm.

3. Saturday | Battle of the Paddles. More than a pickle ball sporting event, it is a high-energy community experience. This is a rain or shine event because of the covered courts at The Fort.

4. Every Saturday | Beginner Hip Hop Dance Classes For Kids. Hip Hop Class for ages 7 and up. Learn various styles of Hip Hop as well as dance to a variety of hip hop beats.

5. Saturday on Stage | Brazilian Voices - Fort Lauderdale. This talented group of performers will transport you to the vibrant streets of Brazil with their mesmerizing music and electrifying energy.

6. Starting Saturday (for 2 weeks) | Hairspray at Slow Burn Theatre. Winner of eight TonyAwards, including Best Musical, is piled bouffant-high with laughter, romance and deliriously tuneful songs.

7. Saturday | 10-Year Anniversary of Super Car Saturdays. South Florida’s most recognized monthly supercar gatherings — bringing together Bugatti, Pagani, McLaren, Ferrari, and Lamborghini to classics, customs, and resto mods to showcase an incredible range of automotive culture.

8. This Weekend | Tortuga Music Festival 2026. 13th annual Tortuga Music Festival opens Friday April 10! Three days of country, rock, and roots music, with Post Malone, Kenny Chesney, Riley Green, and 20+ artists on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Plus the Conservation Village with free marine education, VR shark dives, and 20+ ocean nonprofits.

9. Also This Weekend | The 17th Annual International Orchid & Garden Festival at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Vividly experience and purchase diverse, colorful, and fragrant varieties of orchids, tropical plants, herbs, and fruit trees sold by 30+ local and international vendors. Also live music and Hula dancers.

10. This Weekend | Smorgasbord is back and has moved from Wynwood up to Fort Lauderdale. The Fort Lauderdale iteration is being positioned as a “reimagined” version of the market.

11. Tuesdays | Bonnet House Museum Guided Tour 90-minute tour of the historic 103-year-old estate with art, history, and tropical gardens. Reservations suggested.

12. Also Tuesdays | Tuesday Night Two-Mile Run Club. Lace up and join us for Huizenga Park’s Two Mile Run Club produced by the Lauderdale Run Club, a weekly two-mile community run through the heart of Downtown Fort Lauderdale.

13. Sunday | Sunny Side Up Community Market at Huizenga Park Artisans, farmers, seafood vendors, and wellness brands. Fresh food and handmade finds. 12pm-4pm. Come early for yoga at 11am.

😉​ Hey - quick question. Did we miss anything? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Featured Fort Lauderdale

The Legend of the Barefoot Mailman: A True Fort Lauderdale Mystery!

Have you ever complained about a package being a day late? Imagine a time when your mail didn’t come in a truck, but on the back of a man walking barefoot through 40 miles of sand, sharks, and sawgrass!

Before Fort Lauderdale was a city of highways and skyscrapers, it was part of a treacherous “star route” for the U.S. Postal Service. Today, we’re diving into the mystery of our most famous local legend: James “Ed” Hamilton.

Walking the Water’s Edge

In the 1880s, there were no roads between Palm Beach and Miami. To get the mail delivered, carriers walked the shoreline where the sand was packed hard by the tide. They carried their boots over their shoulders to keep them dry, earning them the nickname “The Barefoot Mailmen.”

The job was dangerous, but only one man ever “walked into history.” In October 1887, Ed Hamilton reached the Hillsboro Inlet (just to the north of Fort Lauderdale!) and found his rowboat missing.

Determined to finish his route, Ed left his mailbag and clothes tucked safely in a tree and plunged into the water to swim across and retrieve the boat. He was never seen again.

What happened? Some say the strong currents swept him out to sea.

Local lore suggests a more “Florida” ending: a run-in with a hungry alligator or shark.

The Barefoot Mailman isn’t just a story. He’s part of our local landscape. Next time you’re out exploring with the kids, look for these local tributes:

• The Statue: Visit the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse to see the bronze statue of Ed Hamilton, mailbag in hand.

• The Hike: Every year, local scouts recreate the trek, walking miles of sand just like the pioneers did.

The next time you see your mail carrier, give them a wave! They might have a truck and AC now, but they’re carrying on a tradition of Florida grit that started right here on our sandy beaches.

Did you know? The Barefoot Mailman route was officially retired in 1892 once a rock road was finally built. No more swimming for stamps!

So... You Think You Know South Florida

You probably already know... once again we survived the month of March and all the spring breakers who came to partake in our beautiful ocean-side city.

What you might not know... spring break was born right herein Fort Lauderdale.

Before the neon lights of Miami or the all-inclusive resorts of Cancun, there was “The Strip.” If you’ve ever wondered how Fort Lauderdale earned its reputation as the ultimate beach destination, you have to look back to the 1960s. It wasn’t just a local trend; it was a cultural explosion that changed the way American college students spent their spring vacations forever.

Believe it or not, the “wild” spring break we know today began with something very wholesome. In 1935, the Colgate University swim coach brought his team down to Fort Lauderdale to train at the Casino Pool (Florida’s first Olympic-sized pool).

Word spread among northern colleges that Fort Lauderdale had warm water and cold beer. By the 1950s, about 20,000 students were making the trek. But the real “Big Bang” of Spring Break happened in 1960.

Then… in 1960, a movie filmed right here on our sands turned Fort Lauderdale into a national sensation. “Where the Boys Are” followed four college girls looking for love and fun on Las Olas and A1A.

The film was a massive hit, and the following year, the number of visiting students jumped from 20,000 to over 50,000. Suddenly, every student in the Midwest had one goal: get to Fort Lauderdale.

Throughout the 60s and 70s, the city became the undisputed “Spring Break Capital of the World.”

• The Elbo Room: This legendary bar became the epicenter of the party (and it’s still there today!).

• The Strip: A1A was lined with motels and bars where college kids would pack 10 people to a room just to be near the action.

• The Infamous 1985: At its peak in 1985, a staggering 350,000 students descended on the city. It was so crowded you could barely see the sand!

Eventually, the party got a little too wild. In the mid-80s, the city decided to “grow up.” They passed stricter laws, raised the drinking age, and famously told students to find somewhere else to go.

That’s when the crowds shifted to Daytona and eventually Cancun—but the blueprint for the modern Spring Break was designed right here on our shoreline.

Today, we’ve traded the “Fort Liquordale” chaos for a more sophisticated, family-friendly vibe. We still have the world-class beaches and the iconic Elbo Room, but now you’re more likely to see a family building a sandcastle than a frat party on a jeep.

Next time you’re walking down A1A, take a look at the “Wave Wall” and remember: you’re standing on the birthplace of a global phenomenon!

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1300+ local families for just $100)

• This week at FFFTL we posted 2 new articles that you might have missed. This first was a deep look and response to the Centrini Research, and how it might impact our local economy (with a specific focus on our little school). The second is a local guide, written for a group of friends coming to Fort Lauderdale next week.

• Youth Summer Music & Culture Camp at Morikami Gardens. Students participate in the youth camp have various experiences learning about Japan and Japanese culture, and a lot of fun! The program is for students in grades 3^rd to 12^th.

• April 12th - FLL Fashion Week Influencers Brunch. Come eat, network, and make business happen with other South Florida leaders.

• Nanny & Babysitting Services with Jovie of Broward County — Full & part-time nannies, on-demand babysitting for events/conferences. 24/7 availability. Fully vetted caregivers.

• Acton Academy Fort Lauderdale — Now Enrolling for Fall 2026. Curious about a different kind of school? Acton Academy Fort Lauderdale offers real-world, self-directed learning for ages 5-18. Socratic discussions, entrepreneurship projects, and genuine ownership of education. Small community, big results. Enrollment for Fall 2026 is open — schedule a visit (use the ‘Talk With Us’ button).

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1250+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Quote Of The Week

“Blessed are the curious for they shall have adventures.” ~ Lovelle Drachman

Flotsam & Jetsam

Artemis II is getting all the headlines. How about a virtual walk on the red planet?

Ever wondered what it’s actually like to stand in the middle of a Martian crater? Most of us will never hitch a ride on a SpaceX rocket, but a stunning interactive project is giving us the next best thing.

For this week’s find, we’re looking at a website that lets you “shadow” the Curiosity Rover on its decade-long journey across the surface of Mars.

Since landing in Gale Crater in August 2012, Curiosity has been busy. It isn’t just taking random snapshots; it’s documenting a 12-year (and counting!) mountain climb. This interactive map allows you to visually traverse the planet by scrolling through the rover’s actual path.

Here’s why it’s a must-see for your next “internet rabbit hole” session:

• The Topographical Map: You follow a line representing every meter Curiosity has rolled. As you scroll, you move through the rugged, dusty terrain of Mount Sharp.

• Raw NASA Photos: As you hit specific “waypoints” or days (Sols) on the map, the screen fills with the actual raw images captured by the rover on that exact day.

• The Scale of Wonder: You see the change from flat plains to jagged rocks and massive sand dunes, making the Red Planet feel like a real place rather than just a distant speck in the sky.

Whether you’re a space nerd or just looking for a cool educational site to show the kids, this visual journey is pure awe.

Ready to explore? Pack your virtual bags and head over to the NASA Curiosity Tracker (or the fan-made interactive scrolls like Experience Curiosity) to start your trek!

Word Play Of The Week

“Ears Were Burning”

When someone says “your ears must have been burning,” or “I feel like my ears were burning,” it implies that the person believes others were talking about them, even though they were not present. It’s a way of acknowledging the feeling that one’s name or actions were being discussed or mentioned in conversation, often in a way that suggests the topic was significant or noteworthy.

The Romans believed that when someone’s ears were burning, it meant that someone was speaking about them. However, if the right ear was burning, it was considered to be positive gossip, while if the left ear was burning, it was seen as negative or malicious talk. Overall, it’s a colloquial expression acknowledging the awareness of being a subject of discussion. . ~ ​Source

‘Under-The-Radar’ Openings Job Board

Here’s a new section that we are debuting this week with our transition to Substack.

• Ready to become a DJ or Music Producer? But not sure how to get started? Check out the Wired Sound Academy. View openings

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #FFFTL every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

This will be a conversation space exclusively for subscribers—kind of like a group chat or hangout. We’ll occasionally post questions and provide updates that look relevant for our readers.

We hope you will jump into the discussion when it makes sense for you.

Join chat

How to get started with the Chat option

1. Download the Substack app by clicking this link or the button below. New chat threads won’t be sent sent via email, so turn on push notifications so you don’t miss conversation as it happens. You can also access chat on the web.

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2. Open the app and tap the Chat icon. It looks like two bubbles in the bottom bar, and you’ll see a row for my chat inside.

3. That’s it! Jump into our thread to say hi. We especially would love to hear if you have any events or suggestions that you would like to see spotlighted in the newsletter or upcoming podcasts.

And if you do have any issues, check out the Substack’s FAQ.

Welcome, Acton friends. We’re genuinely stoked you’re coming to Fort Lauderdale.

Because Acton folks rarely travel like passive tourists, I put together a local field guide for fellow founders and families who may be arriving a little early or lingering a day or two longer.

This is NOT a generic “top 10 things to do” list. It’s a curated set of easy wins, memorable outings, and a few distinctly South Florida side quests near your convention home base at the Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach, which sits right on the beach and near Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, and the Galleria Mall.

Whether you want beautiful beaches, family fun, local art, a practical transportation tip, or just one more adventure before heading home, here are a few ways to enjoy our beautiful adopted home here Fort Lauderdale.

Note: Our family is originally from the Northeast (Maine) and moved to South Florida in 2020. With so many cool things to do, it felt like every Monday we would hear about something we missed over the weekend. So for five years I’ve been curating the FFFTL Newsletter and podcast (my way of doing BLDs). I’ve always envisioned it becoming a full-fledged and learner-led project as an extension of our school. This year will be the first one where we open it up for apprenticeships. Fingers crossed 🫰

Shared Adventures To Look Forward To

Thursday Night: Welcome Reception at Funky Buddha Brewery

Before the conference fully kicks into gear, Thursday night will be a chance for everyone to gather at Funky Buddha Brewery. It’s a local brewery with real personality, which is a better start than another forgettable ballroom with beige carpeting and lukewarm coffee. Funky Buddha hosts its private events in Oakland Park, in a backroom with big casks. Your introduction to the FTL will be about reconnecting with old friends, meeting new ones, and beginning the weekend with stories and good energy. The Funky Buddha Floridian is one of my favorites and I would say similar to Sam Adams Summer Ale (we live in perpetual summer here in South Florida).

Friday Night: Dinner On Your Own - Or Join Us For The Jungle Queen Dinner Cruise

Friday night dinner on your own will likely send many people toward Las Olas, and for good reason. It is the city’s most natural “wander, choose, and see what feels right” dining district. Among many options, you might pick from Louie Bossi’s, Ocean Prime, Rocco’s Tacos, Sixty Vines, Timpano, Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse, Vinos, YOLO, Luigi’s, Wiseguy Pizza, Java & Jam, Gran Forno Pronto, and Voodoo Bayou. One of our personal favorites is the Boathouse at Riverside because of the seating right on the river.

Or…

If you want your Friday night to feel more like an actual adventure instead of a table hunt on a busy Las Olas evening, the Jungle Queen Dinner Cruise is a strong play for most memorable photos from your trip. Based on comments in the Owner’s Forum, we already have 30+ owners who are planning to take part.

The Jungle Queen has been running since 1935 and offers a sightseeing cruise through downtown Fort Lauderdale and up the New River, followed by its island dinner-and-show experience, including Polynesian fire dancing. With a growing cluster of Acton owners already planning to go, this is one of the easiest ways to turn Friday night into a shared memory instead of fragmented dinner logistics.

Easy (And Fun) Ways To Move About The City

Use Circuit for Free Local Rides

One of the best local tips is Circuit. Fort Lauderdale’s free Micro Mover, serves downtown, Las Olas, and the beach, and the city directs riders to use the Ride Circuit app to book trips. That makes it perfect for short hops from the Sonesta without bothering with parking, traffic, or the usual small humiliations of trying to be clever with a rental car.

See Fort Lauderdale (and more) from the Water

For visitors with an extra half day and a little curiosity, Water Taxi is one of the best ways to experience Fort Lauderdale. Buy one ticket and the service has more than 30 stops across Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood, which is why it works so well as both transportation and sightseeing. Fort Lauderdale is one of those cities that makes more sense from the water. You will see luxury and celebrity homes. Even the local jail, has a waterfront view! Fort Lauderdale is called the ‘Venice of America’ for a reason. Get on the water and it will make more sense.

If you want just a taste of getting on the water (and for free), the Water Trolley is a good option. It runs along the Riverwalk (great for a evening stroll) with several stops up and down the New River.

Adventures Within Walking Distance

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Just across the street from the Sonesta is Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, one of the easiest ways to step out of conference rhythm and into nature. It is a slice of coastal wilderness between the Atlantic and the Intracoastal, and it really does feel like a reset button in the middle of the city. It’s a great choice for a morning walk, a reflective pause, or a little breathing room before heading back into the event. Note that it does require an entry fee.

Water Sports Options at Birch Taylor

Birch State Park is not just for strolling. Rentals inside the park area include kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and bicycles, plus beach chairs and umbrellas. Families or adventurous stragglers can easily turn a quiet park stop into something more.

The Bonnet House Is Just Down The Street

Also close to the Sonesta is the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, one of Fort Lauderdale’s most distinctive historic sites. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and the ZimSculpt outdoor sculpture exhibit runs through April 19, 2026, which overlaps with your conference weekend. The Bonnet House is colorful, whimsical, artistic, and just strange enough to feel memorable instead of dutiful.

Take A Walk On The Beach or… Go Wave-Runner Mode

Sometimes the best plan is simply to walk across A1A and dig your toes into the sand. The Sonesta is directly on Fort Lauderdale Beach, which means one perfectly respectable use of free time is sand, sea air, and a reminder that life is not entirely composed of conference schedules and fluorescent lighting. For people who need more action, the beach-and-Birch zone also offers plenty of water sports options nearby, including rentable waverunners right on the beach.

For Owners Traveling With Families (Or Just Big “Kids” That Look Like Owners)

MODS: The Museum of Discovery and Science

If you’re traveling with your children, MODS is one of the most family-friendly options in the city. The museum is downtown in the Arts & Science District along the New River and features hands-on exhibits, science demos, an outdoor science park, and an IMAX theatre. This is not some token stop inserted out of obligation. It is a genuinely one of the best outings for the curious-minded, both young people and adults.

The Riverwalk and Huizenga Park In The Heart of The Downtown

Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale runs through the middle of the downtown riverfront district and connects a string of parks and public spaces along the New River. Huizenga Park just reopened in January 2026 after a major redesign, and the new version includes an event lawn, peaceful riverfront seating, a shaded dog run, and a Manolo Valdés sculpture. It also happens to have a SmashBurger Food Truck, one of the few places downtown where you can find walkable food, to just sit and enjoy the park.

Side note: the park is named after Wayne Huizenga - who I think still holds the distinction of being one of the few (Jobs? Elon? Maybe Jack Dorsey?) entrepreneurs to start three different billion dollar companies. Can you name them?

The Riverwalk is over 2.5 miles of red brick and shaded walkways along the New River. It is anchored on one end by Esplanade Park, MODS (Museum of Discovery & Science) and the Broward Center. The other end blends into the shopping and dining district of Las Olas Blvd. We live nearby and walk on the Riverwalk to Las Olas nearly every day. It is one of the best things about living in Fort Lauderdale (IMHO).

Together, the Riverwalk and Huizenga make an easy downtown outing for families who want room to wander without needing a full production schedule.

Bluefoot Pirate Adventures For Even The Faint-Hearted

For families with younger children, Bluefoot Pirate Adventures is the kind of outing little ones will remember (and adults tolerate surprisingly well). The company runs family-oriented pirate-themed boat adventures and also promotes its Fort Lauderdale launch area near Seabreeze Boulevard, just south of the main beach zone. Pirate boats might seem ridiculous, obviously, but they bring joy and South Florida has a deep history with pirate culture being so close to the Caribbean.

Xtreme Action Park - Because Every City Needs Neon Craziness

If your family needs the “burn off every remaining molecule of energy” option, Xtreme Action Park is the full-throttle pick. The venue has over 200,000 square feet of indoor attractions including go-karts, bowling, arcade games, ropes course, trampoline park, roller skating, mini golf, laser tag, and escape rooms. It is not subtle, not peaceful, and definitely not low-stimulation. That is exactly why families with teenagers will love it.

Take An Everglades Airboat Tour

If you want a true South Florida adventure beyond the beach, an Everglades airboat tour is classic. Everglades Holiday Park offers guided airboat rides through the subtropical Everglades ecosystem, and each tour includes a live alligator show. It is touristy, but it also gives visiting families a real taste of the wider Florida landscape instead of just the sun-kidded beaches and polished coastline.

The Flamingo Gardens Is Better Than A Zoo

Flamingo Gardens is another strong family outing if you have a car and want something more distinctive than an arcade or trampoline park. It is a 60-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary in Davie with native animals, historic grounds, and enough Florida weirdness to feel like authentic South Florida rather than manufactured. It’s open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Snorkeling at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Is A Whole Other Level

For families with older children or confident swimmers, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is a gem. The town’s coral reefs are within about 100 yards of the beach, and the town calls itself Florida’s Beach Diving Capital. That makes it one of the easier places to turn a beach day into a real snorkeling outing without needing a full offshore boat excursion. Hollywood Florida also has a new underwater “museum” for snorkeling. Even if you never touch the water, the photos are amazing!

Wonderfully Weird… The Mermaid Show At B Ocean Resort’s Wreck Bar

Some folks who ran into super expensive rooms after the registration window at the Sonesta, have been looking at other places to stay. B Ocean Resort is just down the beach from the Sonesta, and its Wreck Bar is famous for mermaid performances viewed through giant porthole-style windows into the pool. The resort promotes family-friendly “Brunch Under the Sea” mermaid experiences, maybe one of Fort Lauderdale’s more unusual entertainment options. I say maybe because… this is the land of “Florida Man” headlines. So anything goes.

But if you have never watched live mermaids swim past while you eat, Fort Lauderdale is prepared to serve that up for you.

For My Art Loving Friends

Start with NSU Art Museum

For McKenzie and any other art lovers in the group, the NSU Art Museum sits at One East Las Olas, near downtown and the Huizenga/Riverwalk area, which makes it the natural starting point for an art-focused exploration. Current exhibitions include Robert Rauschenberg: Real Time through April 26, 2026, Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s Surrounded Islands Documentation Exhibition through spring 2027.

Then Take A Ramble On Las Olas

Las Olas is not just for dinner. It is a mix of restaurants, boutiques, museums, and a broader mix of design-forward shops and stroll-worthy stops. This works especially well for people who enjoy the slower kind of wandering where the plan is simply to notice interesting things. Worth noting - several times a year they shut down the Boulevard for the Las Olas Art Fair. It is quite an event to see but the calendar did not cooperate for this weekend.

Want Something Quiet and Chill? Try Savor Cinema on Friday Night

If Friday night finds you pleasantly maxed out after a full day of owner-conference brain stuffing, Savor Cinema is an excellent alternate path. FLIFF’s schedule shows The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist playing there on April 17, and the film’s own tagline on the schedule asks what is happening with “all this AI insanity” and what is at stake if we get it wrong. That is almost offensively relevant to a room full of Acton owners thinking about young humans and the future.

Get A Feel For The Real South Florida: The Paper Bear

This one does not line up with the conference dates, so it belongs in the bonus category. But for anyone staying a little longer or just look it up online, The Paper Bear plays at Savor Cinema on April 22. It is a feature-length film combining live-action wilderness footage with animation to explore Florida’s ecosystems through a father-and-son journey to find the Florida black bear. That is will be one of the best Hero’s Journey films of the year.

Honest Review For The Shoppers In The Group

The Galleria Is Convenient… (and a bit ho hum)

The Galleria is within easy steps of the Sonesta but don’t get your hopes up. If you forgot something or want a quick shopping stop without making a half-day mission out of it, it is perfectly serviceable. But to me it feels like a “sad” Mall that has seen better days.

But If Shopping Is the Actual Mission, Go Big (or Go Home Empty-Handed)

If someone really wants a shopping excursion, Aventura Mall and Sawgrass Mills are the big enough to overwhelm. Aventura promotes itself as having 300-plus stores, 50-plus dining options, and more than 20 museum-quality art pieces. Sawgrass Mills is billed as the largest shopping destination in the US, with 350-plus stores and outlets. Translation: Galleria for convenience, Aventura for a more elevated experience, Sawgrass for scale and bargains. As you can see… shopping is not really my thing.

Here’s The TL/DR Version For Those Who Scrolled This Far

• If you have just one free morning, walk the beach and maybe Birch State Park, then come back to the Sonesta feeling reasobably restored.

• If you have one free afternoon/evening, take the Water Taxi, wander Las Olas, and stop at NSU Art Museum. Pick the dining that suits you best. You will have lots of options. Even a Smash Burger in the park.

• If you’re traveling with children, do MODS, then the Riverwalk and Huizenga Park.

• If you want historical beauty without over-planning, visit Bonnet House, then stroll the beach.

• If you want the most shared-memory version of the weekend, join us on the Jungle Queen for dinner and a cruise. I am super stoked to have friends already signed up so it will be a fun evening.

• If you want a quieter Friday night after a full day of big ideas that will change the world, hide away at Savor Cinema and let The AI Doc do the heavy existential lifting for two hours, then go sleep on it.

  ---

The Wrap Up

We hope this guide helps you enjoy your short stay in Fort Lauderdale not just as conference attendees, but as friends and fellow Acton owners.

We are proud of our newly-adopted city. I grew up in very rural Maine and we are enjoying big city life (not as quite as big as Miami) here in South Florida. My wish is that your visit will be filled with good conversation, a few small wonders, and at least one next great adventure you almost didn’t take.

Welcome to Fort Lauderdale.

~ Tobin

Curator for Family Friendly Fort Lauderdale

CoFounder at Acton Academy Fort Lauderdale

Head Tinkerer at vPAL.ai

Stuff You Won’t Want To Miss:

1. Next Weekend | Tortuga Music Festival 2026. 13th annual Tortuga Music Festival opens Friday April 10! Three days of country, rock, and roots music on Fort Lauderdale Beach, plus the Conservation Village with free marine education, VR shark dives, and 20+ ocean nonprofits.

2. April 7-12 | Kimberly Akimbo. 5-time Tony Award-winning Best Musical arrives in Fort Lauderdale for a one-week run.

3. Saturday | Spring Fling EGGstravaganza at Las Olas Oceanside Park. The annual Spring Fling EGGstravaganza at the Main Lawn at Las Olas Oceanside Park! Age-divided egg hunts, photos with the Spring Bunny, arts & crafts, live music, food, and games — right on Fort Lauderdale Beach.

4. Also Saturday | The MKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park. Ocean breezes and the beach just steps away. April 4th is the Saturday before Easter, so expect a lively pre-holiday market.

5. Sunday | Sunny Side Up Community Market at Huizenga Park. Local artisans, organic farmers, seafood vendors, and wellness brands along Las Olas.

6. Tuesdays | Tuesday Night Two-Mile Run Club. Lace up and join us for Huizenga Park's Two Mile Run Club produced by the Lauderdale Run Club, a weekly two-mile community run through the heart of Downtown Fort Lauderdale.

7. Every Thursday | Historic-Architectural Walking Tour of Downtown Fort Lauderdale. A 2-hour guided walking tour through downtown Fort Lauderdale's most architecturally significant buildings and public spaces. Perfect for curious families and longtime residents who've never learned the stories behind what they walk past every day.

8. Through June | Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition at Galleria Fort Lauderdale. See the Sistine Chapel ceiling at eye level — no flight to Rome required.

9. New Exhibit At MODS | HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever at the Museum of Discovery & Science. test your shot speed, explore ice physics, and trace hockey's evolution from frozen ponds to the NHL.

😉​ Hey - quick question. Did we miss anything? Each week we do our research but you might know of an event, an organization, or a local business that deserves some love here in our weekly basket of goodies. Just hit reply to this email and let us know!

Featured Fort Lauderdale

This weekend is the Tortuga Music Festival - a big deal every year. And traffic, oh the traffic will be a thing down by the beach!

Here’s the Free (and Fascinating) Part of Tortuga Music Festival.

Most people know Tortuga as a country music blowout on Fort Lauderdale Beach. What fewer families realize: the Conservation Village is free-entry and genuinely worth a visit on its own.

Over 20 nonprofits run booths with VR shark dives, sea turtle education, coral reef demos, and hands-on marine science, right on the sand.

If your kids are curious about the ocean (and whose aren't, living here?), this could be the coolest Saturday afternoon of April.

So... You Think You Know Florida

You probably already know... the ocean and waterways of Fort Lauderdale are a big part of what we do here.

What you might not know... Fort Lauderdale Has More Canals Than Venice, Italy.

You probably already know Fort Lauderdale is called the Venice of America. What you might not know is that the city has over 165 miles of navigable inland waterways — more than Venice, Italy, and more than any other American city.

The canal system wasn’t natural; it was hand-dug starting in the 1920s during a Florida land boom. The result is that thousands of Fort Lauderdale homeowners have boats in their backyard where a car would sit in most cities.

More Treats To Try

We don’t let just anyone sponsor this newsletter. Here’s who “made the cut” this week:

(Hit reply to this email if you want to reach over 1300+ local families for just $100)

• MODS Spring Break and Summer Science Camps — Register Now. The Museum of Discovery and Science runs half-day and full-day science camps during spring break and summer for ages 5-12. Hands-on experiments, live animal encounters, IMAX films, and STEM challenges inside Fort Lauderdale's most beloved science museum. Spring Break week is April 7-11. Spots fill fast.

• Acton Academy Fort Lauderdale — Now Enrolling for Fall 2026. Curious about a different kind of school? Acton Academy Fort Lauderdale offers real-world, self-directed learning for ages 5-18. Socratic discussions, entrepreneurship projects, and genuine ownership of education. Small community, big results. Enrollment for Fall 2026 is open — schedule a visit.

• Tortuga Music Festival — Family 3-Day Passes Available. The 13th annual Tortuga Music Festival hits Fort Lauderdale Beach April 10-12. Passes include unlimited access to the Conservation Village — free marine education, VR shark dives, and 20+ ocean nonprofits on the sand. General admission 3-day passes available now.

• 👉 Buy YOUR OWN Classified Ad Here 👈

Just hit reply to this email to get started. Work with us to reach over 1250+ Greater Fort Lauderdale families.

Quote Of The Week

“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.” ~ Coco Chanel

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel (1883–1971) transformed fashion by rejecting the rigid, corseted styles of her era and replacing them with comfortable, practical clothing that gave women freedom of movement. She built one of the most enduring fashion houses in history, entirely on her own terms, in an era when that was nearly unthinkable for a woman.

Flotsam & Jetsam

Here’s a fun test. Can you tell what the color of this dot is? Which one?

There’s a story behind this test.

While examining a flight map on his smartphone last August, Hinnerk Schulz-Hildebrandt stumbled upon a peculiar visual phenomenon. He observed that the plane’s trajectory line seemed to fluctuate in color, shifting between purple and blue, based entirely on his gaze.

When he looked directly at the line, it appeared purple, but when viewed through his peripheral vision, it transformed into a blue hue.

Intrigued by this, Schulz-Hildebrandt, who works as a biomedical optics researcher at Harvard Medical School, investigated the occurrence further. His findings led to the creation of a new optical illusion, recently featured in the journal Perception, which highlights the fluid nature of how we process color.

The illusion displays nine purple dots set against a blue backdrop; for viewers with standard color vision, the specific dot being focused on maintains its purple appearance, while the surrounding dots appear to blend into the blue background.

Word Play Of The Week

“No spring chicken”

A lighthearted way to say someone is no longer young — usually said as ‘I’m no spring chicken, but I can still keep up!’

In colonial-era farming, spring-hatched chickens commanded a premium at market — young, tender, and fresh. By the 1700s the phrase migrated into everyday speech to describe anyone past their youthful prime. Perfect for Easter week, when chickens are very much on the mind. ~ ​Source

‘Under-The-Radar’ Openings Job Board

Here’s a new section that we are debuting this week with our transition to Substack.

• Film and Event Location Coordinator. Hybrid role supporting TV, film, fashion, and commercial shoots across South Florida. Great fit for someone with real production chops and local knowledge. View opening

• Teaching Artist at Broward Center. Contract role bringing arts education to learners of all ages. View opening

• Animal Husbandry Specialist II, Corals at MODS. One of those “wait, that’s a real job here?” listings. View openings

• Development Operations Manager at MODS. $65K full-time role for someone who likes mission-driven work and actually enjoys systems, data, and donor ops. View opening

• Dual Programs Advisor at NSU. $52K, full benefits, student success and career guidance. View opening

Lastly… One Big Idea For Your Week

Tell Us How We Are Doing

Every week we are working to improve #FFFTL every week, both for your reading experience and to provide a cutting-edge media apprenticeship opportunity for our learners.

We want to hear from you. What do you love? What could we do better FOR YOU? And most importantly, what FTL businesses and experiences should we be highlighting?

Leave a comment

When the “experts”(meaning, those closest to the work) say something big is happening (if you haven’t seen this link, start here), my approach is to do two things:

1. Get curious and watch closely so I can gather information;

2. Step back and take it all in first, so I don’t get reactive.

A first draft of this post was originally emailed to group of fellow Acton owners after a discussion about the future of our schools and the bigger future of the Acton Network. It is a letter meant to be both a wake-up call and one full of hope.

You get to choose which will serve your family most.

“Imagine it’s 2029.

Half the parents at Acton Academy Fort Lauderdale who we used to rely on for tuition are ‘unemployed.’ But... they’re still ‘okay.’ They’re consulting, freelancing, piecing it together. Income is down 20–40%. But these families are doing better than ever.

Their child’s school choice become the solution.

At the same time that AI begins to make a lot of white-collar work cheap. Some parents ask a brutal question:

‘How can I keep paying for this school I love when our own income feels threatened?’

The fork in the road becomes real.

Learning that is basically just content delivery get priced like content.

Cheap. Replaceable.

Schools that are identity + tribe + standards + trust become priceless, because they help families stay functional and connected during chaos.

So the question for Acton isn’t ‘How do we run better schools next year?’

It’s ‘How do we become the most trusted institution in a family’s life, after church and before their bank?’

Let’s get started (if you haven’t already seen this) here’s the full Centrini Research.

Citrini Research

THE 2028 GLOBAL INTELLIGENCE CRISIS

Preface…

Read more

4 months ago · 8764 likes · 90 comments · Citrini and Alap Shah

TL/DR: Here’s a summary of the Cintrini Research as it relates to our school and our families.

We will soon be living in a “Ghost GDP” World

The Scenario in One Line

If AI makes white-collar “thinking work” cheap, incomes compress and spending weakens. In that world, organizations competing on features get priced like content. Communities that function as tribes become essential.

1) The Two Impending Futures: Choose The Game That Will Serve Your Family Best

Future A: The “Content School”

• Parents’ income becomes volatile (down 20–40% for many).

• They ask: “What am I paying for?”

• School answers: curriculum, apps, credentials.

• Parent conclusion: “We can get this cheaper. Maybe even do it ourselves.”

• Result: slow churn, then sudden collapse.

Future B: The “Trust Engine School”

• Parents’ income becomes volatile.

• School answers: identity, community, standards, mutual aid, apprenticeship pathways.

• Parent conclusion: “This keeps our children grounded, prepared, and our family connected.”

• Result: Acton becomes the last expense they will want to cut.

Punchline: In a downturn, features get cut. Tribes don’t.

2) The One Number That Predicts Resilience

Trust Density Score (TDS)

TDS = meaningful parent-to-parent touches per family per month

Meaningful = actual help, collaboration, hiring, mentoring, buying/selling, childcare swaps, referrals.

Benchmarks

• 0–1/month = tuition is just a transaction

• 2–3/month = community-ish

• 4–6/month = a resilient community

• 7+/month = the antifragile community

Interpretation

If TDS is low, you don’t have a community. You have a customer base.

3) The 5-Minute Campus Audit (We Are Doing This Today)

Write real numbers, not vibes:

1. Tuition Fragility

2. How many families would struggle if income dropped 25% for 12 months?

3. Community Liquidity

4. How many families can offer paid services to their fellow Acton families (legal, design, marketing, childcare, coaching, wellness, trades, etc.)?

5. Trust Density

6. What’s your current TDS guess?

If we can’t answer these, we’re running today’s playbook for tomorrow’s weather.

4) The Acton Anti-fragile Next Steps (started in Spring 2026)

Increase TDS by +2 next month. One ritual, implemented immediately.

High-leverage rituals:

• Parent skill directory + “Hire Inside” pledge

• Mutual Aid Friday (needs posted, offers posted, matched live)

• Apprenticeship Exchange sourced from parent businesses

• 3-intro rule (3 useful intros per family per quarter)

• Founders’ dinner quarterly (give-first norm)

Goal: Turn every campus into a small, high-trust economic network that produces agency in learners and optionality in families.

Acton Network Resilience Report (5–25 Year Projection)

Why “Trust Engines” Matter More Than Today’s Ops Debates

1) The Scenario Everyone’s Passing Around

Citrini Research: “The 2028 Global Intelligence Crisis” (this is a scenario simulation, not a prediction)

Here’s The Core Claim (in plain English)

AI and agentic automation drive white-collar displacement + wage compression, so even if productivity rises, money doesn’t circulate to humans (“Ghost GDP”), weakening consumer demand and stressing credit and asset prices.

Helpful mainstream context on how viral this became (for people who won’t read Substack):

• The Guardian explainer (Feb 24, 2026): https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/feb/24/feedback-loop-no-brake-how-ai-doomsday-report-rattled-markets

• Barron’s pushback framing it as a recurring “doomsday memo” pattern (Feb 25, 2026): https://www.barrons.com/articles/ai-economic-collapse-citrini-stock-market-50378a1d

2) The Acton-Relevant Insight

If intelligence becomes cheap, the scarce asset is trust.

Acton is already a “trust engine” (high repetition relationships, shared norms, accountability, strong culture, parent entrepreneurs). That’s exactly what tends to hold up when large institutions wobble.

3) 5–25 Year Threats, Opportunities, Challenges

A) 0–5 years: Volatility + parent anxiety + uneven affordability

Threats

• Tuition stress + churn risk as more families face income volatility (even if unemployment stats understate it). (citriniresearch.co

• Scholarship pressure increases (more “we love you, but…” conversations).

• AI-solutionism: parents chase tools and credentials instead of culture, agency, and community.

Opportunities

• Acton’s value proposition strengthens: in an AI world, parents will pay for agency, character, self-management, leadership (uniquely human compounding).

• “Entrepreneur density” becomes a moat: families transact, hire, mentor, and stabilize each other (local circulation).

Challenges

• You must operationalize “community” as an asset, not a vibe.

• Owners burn out if they try to solve macro stress with heroic personal effort (spoiler: they can’t).

B) 5–10 years: Parallel institutions + local networks outperform generic systems

Threats

• Bifurcation across campuses: strong-trust campuses thrive; weak-trust campuses become tuition-fragile.

• Regulatory attention rises as governments scramble for levers, and education is always a lever.

Opportunities

• Acton becomes a community institution, not just a school: apprenticeships, parent talent networks, micro-enterprise, mentorship ladders.

• Network-level advantages become decisive: shared playbooks, shared leadership formation, shared “culture enforcement” patterns.

Challenges

• Maintaining decentralization while preventing “brand drift” and uneven quality.

• Creating repeatable leadership formation (owners and guides) fast enough to keep up with growth and stress.

C) 10–25 years: Trust as infrastructure (winners are networks that compound cohesion)

Threats

• Education splits into: community institutions vs luxury goods.

• If “Ghost GDP” dynamics exist, many families will need a community to stay solvent, stable, and sane. (citriniresearch.com

Opportunities

• Acton can become a centuries-long institution if we behaves like one:

  • mission clarity

  • local adaptability

  • leadership formation

  • strong norms

  • mutual aid across nodes

Challenges

• The long game is governance and formation, not “better marketing.”

• Without intentional structure, networks don’t scale trust. They scale variance.

4) The Big Takeaway

“If Citrini is even half-right, the next decade rewards trust, not content. Acton’s strategic job isn’t to optimize for today’s ops. It’s to harden each campus into a local trust engine: dense relationships, shared norms, mutual aid, and real-world apprenticeship pathways. In a ‘Ghost GDP’ world, trust is infrastructure.”

5) The 3 Moves That Will Prepare Our Acton (And Your Family) For Either Future

1. Increase Density

   1. More repeated parent-to-parent interaction, shared commitments, and community rituals. Trust compounds through repetition.

2. Increase Circulation and Connections

   1. Make it normal for families to hire each other, buy from each other, mentor each other. Build a local “marketplace” layer that keeps money and opportunity moving.

3. Increase Formation

   1. Train owners and guides like this is a 50-year mission, not a 5-year small business. Trust engines fail when standards drift.

Here’s a Bit More Detail For Parents Who Feel This Just Cannot Be Happening

We’ve spent the last few years debating when AI will “take our jobs.” According to a recent study from Anthropic, that shift isn’t a looming shadow anymore—it’s already reshaping the entry-level market. By cross-referencing Claude’s actual capabilities with real-world usage, the study reveals a workforce in transition.

The Metrics: “Observed Exposure”

Unlike theoretical studies, Anthropic used a metric called “observed exposure.” This measures the overlap between tasks AI can do and the tasks users are already asking it to automate. It’s less about what might happen and more about what is happening in the trenches of the digital economy.

Who’s at Risk (and Who Isn’t)?

The data paints a clear picture of which industries are feeling the heat:

• Computer Programmers: Topping the list with a staggering 75% task coverage.

• Customer Service & Data Entry: Not far behind at 67%.

• The “Safe” Zone: Roughly one-third of the U.S. workforce currently has zero AI exposure. These are primarily “hands-on” roles that require physical presence and manual dexterity—think bartenders, cooks, and lifeguards.

The “Silent” Impact on Gen Z

While we haven’t seen a massive, headline-grabbing spike in general unemployment since the 2022 launch of ChatGPT, the “squeeze” is happening at the bottom of the ladder.

Since late 2022, hiring for 22-to-25-year-olds in AI-exposed fields has dropped by 14%. Companies aren’t necessarily firing their veterans yet, but they are increasingly hesitant to hire the next generation for roles that an LLM can handle for a fraction of the cost.

The Bottom Line

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has been vocal about the coming disruption, and the market is listening—we’ve already seen industry stock prices dip following major Claude releases.

Despite these blinking red lights, the global economy remains drastically underprepared. We aren’t just looking at a future shift; we are witnessing the slow-motion closing of the door for entry-level white-collar workers. The question is no longer if the disruption is coming, but how we support a workforce that is already feeling the pinch.

The Generational Divide is Real

There is a growing “tech schizophrenia” in how we perceive these tools. Older generations often treat AI as a glorified search engine - Google with a personality. Meanwhile, Millennials and Gen Z are integrating it as a life partner: a companion, therapist, health coach, and tireless tutor.

This creates a massive friction point in our institutions:

• Education: Educators fear AI is dismantling the foundation of learning, while the students using it argue it’s the most powerful educational tool ever conceived.

• Corporate Policy: While companies and schools scramble to ban or block access, the individuals embracing the tech are essentially becoming superhuman, augmenting their output at a pace traditional structures can’t track.

The Great Divergence Is Already Started

The institutions haven’t caught up, and they likely won’t in time. This creates a definitive fork in the road. Over the next five years, the gap between those who leverage AI and those who resist it won’t just be a matter of preference, it will define the winners and losers of the new economy.

As Peter Diamandis keeps reminding us. Choose your side carefully.