Florida Agenda

By Michael French “Grateful,” as defined by Webster’s, is “feeling or showing appreciation of kindness; thankful”. During the twists and turns of the day, some of us are tempted to feel overwhelmed by what’s “wrong” with life instead of taking stock and being grateful for the good we experience each day. The longer we live, [...]

By Michael French Dining out until the recent past was primarily reserved for celebrating life’s events, like Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day. Frantic schedules leave many of us with little spare time or desire to cook a meal. Eating at restaurants has become a lifestyle, especially in Florida. Newspapers and magazines are rife with reviews [...]

Dogs. “Misty, Nigel, Bristol, Scottie, or Mona”.  Whatever their name, dog lovers cannot imagine life without their “best friend”. According to the latest census, there are almost 50 million households with a canine companion sharing their home. The dog is just as excited and thrilled to see us again, whether we are away  for an [...]

By MICHAEL FRENCH Planning a 4th of July party? The most important part is to invite people you like the best, relax and don’t obsess about perfectionism. A great Independence Day celebration is all about solid 4th of July party ideas. The success or failure of your party will be all about the planning you [...]

By Michael French June: the International Pride month for the GLBT community. Pride parties, galas, theme park events and parades abound. And Florida’s no exception. People are inclined to believe Ft. Lauderdale and South Florida is THE place to call home for GLBT residents. While South Florida is home to the largest GLBT community in [...]

By Michael French June 19th is Father’s Day. American fathers often get a bad rap. They are stereotyped by critics left and right, male and female. All too frequently, the American father is portrayed as a second class parent. Ever notice the difference between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day cards? Mother’s Day cards typically depict [...]

By Michael French Summer is here! Ah, the hours of sunshine seems endless, the frenetic pace of the season gives way to a more relaxed atmosphere, traffic is lighter, restaurant reservations are much easier to come by, and Florida “belongs” to us again! But, there’s a catch. Florida’s long summer arrives with two friends carrying [...]

By Michael French Ever heard the phrase “Less is More?” Our obsessive pursuit of wealth isn’t working – people are afraid and anxious; we’re destroying the planet, undermining happiness, and clinging to an unsustainable economy. There’s another way. Less can be More. Throughout history wise people have argued we need to live more simply – [...]

By Michael French Memorial Day has traditionally been a day of remembering Americans in the Armed Forces. antibiotics no prescription Whether they served, are currently enlisted or lost their lives during the wars in which the United States has been involved, this is the day our country has officially dedicated with acknowledgment, gratitude, and in [...]

By Rick Gibson Have you considered or already made some home improvements? For some of us, this was always part of our plan. We bought a house that was in need of repair and planned to put some money towards the right kitchen, garden or whatever it is that was important to us. Suddenly, we [...]