Miami Children's Museum's Not So Scary Halloween Bash - Sixteenth Annual Family-Friendly Halloween Celebration Features A Haunted House, Trick-Or-Treating, Spooky Science Activities, Pumpkin Decorating And More South Florida Sun Times Oct 1, 2026 Miami’s Favorite Halloween Tradition Is Back, And It’s Happening In Broad Daylight. The Miami Children’s Museum Announces The Return Of Its Beloved, Family-Friendly Not So Scary Halloween Bash, Celebrating Its 16th Year On Sunday, October 4th, 2026, From 1:00 p.m. To 5:00 p.m. Located At 980 Macarthur Causeway, Miami, Florida 33132 The Event Is Designed Specifically With Little Ones In Mind And Offers Families A Safe, Age-Appropriate Way To Celebrate Halloween Without The Late-Night Scares. Supported by Arison Arts Foundation and presented by Terra, co-chaired by longtime Museum supporters Marissa Neufeld and Lydia Pinnell-Lawrie, this year’s headline moment is the grand opening of Miami Children's Museum’s famously not- so-spooky Haunted House, built for little ghosts and goblins of all ages. Every dollar raised through this event directly supports the Museum’s educational programs, helping guarantee immersive, hands-on learning experiences for South Florida children of all backgrounds and abilities. The event is made possible by the generosity of the following sponsors: Academica, Accessible Home Health Care of Aventura, Aperio Group, Arison Arts Foundation, Ayala Royal Ballet, Peter Benjamin, Bilzin Sumberg, Breezeline, Kevin A Burns Councilman District 1 City of North Miami, Caleb and Calder Sloan's Awesome Foundation, Century Risk Advisors, Coastal Maintenance Building, Robert and Michelle Diener, City of Miami District 3 Commissioner Rolando Escalona, Florida Prepaid, Frida, Greenberg Traurig, Holland & Knight, Inktel Contact Center Solutions, Jazwares, Jetset Modern Pilates, Joe’s Stone Crab, The Kasavana Family Foundation, Nancy and Peter Lash, Law Offices of Monique K. Pope, P.A., The Lampen Family, Little Spoon, Jewel and Adam Malone, Margaret and Ryan McKillen, Kelly and Chris Melchiondo, Marissa and Matt Neufeld, NHG Specialty, James O'Connor and Claudia Lang, Oracle Representatives, Ozinga, Adrienne and Stevan Pardo, Commissioner Damian Pardo, Lydia Pinnell-Lawrie and Charles Lawrie, Kristina and Bradley Ross, Reginald and Akeisha Sainvil, Sidley Austin, Volha and Nicholas Singer, South Beach Skincare, South Miami Orthodontics, Deborah Spiegelman, Paige and Adam Siper, Commissioner Micky Steinberg, The Behaviorists, The Netkin Family, The Ryl Co., Tiny Hands, Valente Brothers, Alexis and Scott Wagner 
"There's nothing quite like watching the Miami Children’s Museum’s 17 galleries fill up with tiny superheroes, princesses, dinosaurs and more during this special event each year," said Deborah Spiegelman, CEO of the Miami Children's Museum. "This event is one of our most important annual fundraisers. Every family who joins us helps ensure the Museum remains a place where curiosity, discovery through playful learning and innovative experiences are accessible to every child who walks through our doors." A Daytime Halloween Event Made for Kids Unlike traditional after-dark Halloween activities, the Not So Scary Halloween Bash gives families with young children a comfortable and low-stress way to celebrate the holiday. Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress in costume, and the afternoon includes: • Trick-or-treating through the Museum’s 17 interactive galleries • Spooky science activities and hands-on experiments • Face painting and pumpkin decorating • Art activities and character meet & greets • Sponsor-hosted activations throughout the Museum • Lunch served by Diced, plus sweet treats from local vendors The Fun Doesn’t Stop There: “Not So Scary in Miami” All October Long Starting Monday, October 5th, 2026 the Museum extends the Halloween spirit with a full month of themed programming, including: • The "Creepy Pair of Underwear" Theater Troupe, performing twice daily on weekends • The Haunted House, open daily throughout October • Mini Monster Monday on October 26th, 2026 a toddler-friendly trick-or-treating day for the Museum’s youngest guests • Trick-or-treating on Saturdays: October 31st, 2026 • Mini pumpkin decorating • A mad scientist lab • Costumes welcome museum-wide, all month long Tickets Museum member pricing for the Not So Scary Halloween Bash is $60, and non-member pricing is $70. Tickets and full details on October’s Halloween programming are available at: www.miamichildrensmuseum.org . About Miami Children's Museum: Miami Children’s Museum is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit educational institution dedicated to enriching the lives of all children by fostering a love of learning and enabling children to realize their highest potential. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to play together, learn, imagine, and create. The museum offers bilingual, interactive exhibits, hundreds of daily programs and classes, a Subway restaurant, Kid Smart educational gift shop and learning materials related to arts, culture, community, and communication. Celebrating 40 years of fostering childhood education and imagination, Miami Children's Museum also marks 21 years in its iconic Watson Island location. Character meet & greets. Art activities. Face painting and pumpkin decorating. The Haunted House is open daily throughout October. Previous Next

The South Florida Sun Times is a weekly publication that covers North Miami Dade, and South Broward County. Covering Broward | South Florida Sun Times | Hallandale Beach | Hollywood | Sunny Isles Beach | Aventura | Ft. Lauderdale | Dania Beach | Pembroke Pines We Share YOUR PASSION FOR COMMUNITY Check Out What's Happening This Week...

Hallandale Beach Celebrates the City’s Many Sounds With A Secret Monthly Concert Series - Sofar Sounds Brings Intimate, Live Music Performances To Hallandale Beach By City of Hallandale Beach Oct 1, 2026 As the City Of Hallandale Beach Prepares To celebrate Its 100th Anniversary, It’s Returning To Its Strong Musical Roots While Setting The Stage For New, Live Entertainment. The City Is Partnering With Sofar Sounds To Launch A Series Of Intimate Concerts With A Curated List Of Secret Music Artists In A Hidden Location From September 2026 Through February 2027. “Hallandale Beach has a rich history of hosting emerging artists who go on to historic musical careers and we are thrilled to launch this concert series for all to enjoy, while paying homage to our city’s roots,” said Hallandale Beach City Manager/CRA Executive Director Dr. Jeremy Earle. “Sofar Sounds has a reputation of reimagining the live music experience with curated events around the globe. We are honored to partner with them to bring these performances to Hallandale Beach.” Known for transforming unconventional spaces into intimate stages, Sofar Sounds events are designed to bring artists and audiences closer together. The performers and exact concert location will remain a secret leading up to each event, inviting guests to arrive without expectations and experience the excitement of discovering the next big thing in music. Previous Sofar Sounds performers include Billie Eilish, FINNEAS, Teddy Swims and Victor Ray, Hozier, Olivia Dean, Leon Bridges, and Tones and I. Reflecting on the many sounds of Hallandale Beach, this concert series will offer an eclectic mix of live performances, with sounds ranging from Latin Fusion, R&B, and Indie Rock to Classic Jazz and strings, to contemporary music and love songs. The concerts will be held on Fridays of each month and advance registration is required. In keeping with the Sofar Sounds traditional experience, no other information will be revealed but event details will be provided for registered guests closer to each performance date. Music has long shaped Hallandale Beach’s history, and this concert series brings the City’s historic music roots to life. As the City began making its mark on South Florida, its music and entertainment scene flourished through iconic venues such as the Palms Nightclub. Once considered an essential stop for artists touring the South, the club welcomed legendary performers including James Brown, Sam Cooke, Etta James, Marvin Gaye, and Ray Charles. Through this collaboration, Hallandale Beach is celebrating the musical legacy that helped shape its first century while creating a new soundtrack for the next. Each secret concert will offer attendees a fresh way to experience the City, one unexpected space and unforgettable performance at a time. To register for the concerts or to learn more, visit: https://bit.ly/SofarSoundsHallandale . About the City of Hallandale Beach The City of Hallandale Beach is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of the community in a fiscally responsible manner by providing superior services that meet the needs of our residents and businesses, as well as planning for their future needs through continued communication. For more information, please visit: https://www.cohb.org . About Sofar Sounds Born in a London flat in 2009, Sofar Sounds began as an answer to a growing problem: live music had lost its magic. It blossomed into a global movement that kept music at its heart while expanding to comedy, singles, dance, and more, all connected by Sofar’s renowned track record for discovering rising talent. The concerts will be held on Fridays of each month and advance registration is required. “Sofar Sounds has a reputation of reimagining the live music experience with curated events around the globe. We are honored to partner with them to bring these performances to Hallandale Beach.” Hallandale Beach City Manager/CRA Executive Director Dr. Jeremy Earle. Music has long shaped Hallandale Beach’s history, and this concert series brings the City’s historic music roots to life. Previous Next

From Petition To Final Approval: Understanding The Family-Based Visa Process By Mary Wilkowski Oct 1, 2026 This Article Is Part III Of A Series On Family-Based Immigration To The United States. For many families, obtaining a green card is an important step toward building a permanent life together in the United States. Although every immigration case has its own unique circumstances, all family-based green card cases begin at the same place: establishing that a qualifying family relationship exists. What is Form I-130? A qualifying U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident begins the process by filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Form I-130 is used regardless of whether the petitioner is an immediate relative or falls within a family preference category. The purpose of the I-130 is to establish the qualifying family relationship between the person filing the petition, known as the petitioner, and the relative seeking permanent residence, known as the beneficiary. Evidence establishing the qualifying relationship must also accompany the petition, such as documentation proving a current marriage and termination of any prior marriages. Does an approved Form I-130 result in a green card? Approval of an I-130 alone does not entitle the beneficiary to a green card or grant permission to immigrate to the United States. Once an I-130 is approved and the family relationship is established, the green card process generally proceeds along one of two paths: Adjustment of Status in the United States, or Consular Processing abroad. How long does it take for Form I-130 to be approved? USCIS is currently reporting a historical national median of approximately 12.9 months for immediate-relative Form I-130 petitions (those filed by the spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21). USCIS does not publish national averages for the time it takes to adjudicate Form I-130 based on a family preference category, but in practice it can often take anywhere from a few to several years. What is Adjustment of Status? Adjustment of Status allows an eligible person who is physically present in the United States to apply to USCIS for permanent residence. In other words, Adjustment of Status is the legal process used by qualifying foreign nationals already present in the U.S. to apply for lawful permanent resident status without having to return to their home country. Who qualifies for Adjustment of Status? Simply being in the United States does not necessarily mean an applicant qualifies to adjust status. Eligibility depends on the foreign national’s particular circumstances, including, but not limited to, applicable statutory requirements and whether an immigrant visa is immediately available when required. Issues such as how the person entered the United States (for example, whether they were inspected and admitted or paroled into the country), maintenance of immigration status, immigration violations, and the applicable family category can affect eligibility. What is Form I-485? The principal application to adjust status is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This form essentially asks USCIS to adjust an applicant’s immigration status (usually from a temporary visa) to a lawful permanent resident without having to leave the country. An adjustment application may involve several additional forms, including, but not limited to: Form I-864, Affidavit of Support; Form I-693 for the required immigration medical examination and vaccination record; and, when eligible, optional applications for employment authorization (Form I-765) and a travel document (Form I-131). The required forms vary from case to case and depend on the applicant’s specific circumstances. How long does it take for Form I-485 to be approved? USCIS is currently reporting a historical national median of approximately 5.9 months for both immediate-relative and family preference category Form I-485 petitions. However, Form I-485 cannot be filed until a visa is available. Premium processing (an expedited service offered by USCIS for a fee that guarantees a faster review) is not available for Adjustment of Status. Immediate relatives have an important procedural advantage in this regard. Because immigrant visas are immediately available to immediate relatives without quotas or backlogs, they are generally permitted to file the Form I-130 and Form I-485 together. This is known as concurrent filing, and can significantly reduce the time it takes for an application to adjust status to be adjudicated. Family preference beneficiaries do not have this option and must wait until an immigrant visa is available before filing Form I-485. Due to numerical quotas and backlogs, wait times can last months or years depending on the family preference category. Will USCIS conduct an interview? In an Adjustment of Status case USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment to take fingerprints, a photograph, and a digital signature. Interviews are typically conducted, but not always. If USCIS does schedule an interview, at the interview the USCIS officer will review the application with the applicant and examine documentation establishing the family relationship as well as general admissibility/eligibility. They may also ask questions to confirm both topics (the family relationship and general admissibility/eligibility). What happens if an I-485 is approved? If USCIS approves the I-485, the applicant becomes a lawful permanent resident and will receive a green card. If the beneficiary is the spouse of a U.S. citizen and has been married for less than 2 years, the beneficiary will be granted conditional permanent residence and receive a conditional green card that is valid for 2 years. The beneficiary must later file Form I-751 to remove conditions to become a lawful permanent resident and receive green card that is valid for 10 years. What is Consular Processing? For beneficiaries pursuing permanent residence from outside the United States, the case generally proceeds through Consular Processing. After USCIS approves an I-130 designated for consular processing, the case is generally forwarded to the Department of State's National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC handles pre-interview processing, including collecting fees and required documentation. What is Form DS-260? Unlike Adjustment of Status applicants, foreign nationals who choose Consular Processing do not file Form I-485. Instead, the beneficiary electronically completes Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application. The process generally also involves submitting an Affidavit of Support and financial evidence, civil documents, and an immigration medical examination with an authorized panel physician. How long does it take for Form DS-260 to be processed? First the NVC must determine that an application package (Form DS-260 and supporting materials) is complete. There is no set time for that to occur, but it usually takes a few weeks from the date of submission and may take longer if the NVC requests additional documentation. What happens after Form DS-260 is processed? Once the NVC determines the package is sufficient, it will then forward the package on to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the beneficiary’s home country for processing. From there, timing is highly dependent upon the specific Embassy or Consulate handling the application, as well as other factors including advancement/retrogression of the wait lists (per the visa bulletin) for family preference cases. Some Embassies and Consulates take longer than others, and other factors can also affect timing significantly. Will there be an interview? For Consular Processing cases, yes. Once the documentary requirements have been satisfied and a visa is available, the beneficiary will be scheduled for an immigrant visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The Consular Officer will review the application, examine documentation establishing the family relationship, and ask questions to confirm the family relationship. What happens if the Immigrant Visa application is approved? If the case is approved and an immigrant visa is issued, the beneficiary may use it to travel to the United States. Upon the initial admission with the immigrant visa, the individual will either become a conditional permanent resident or a lawful permanent resident. Again, conditional permanent residence expires after 2 years, and a Form I-751 must be filed to remove conditions in order to obtain lawful permanent resident status. Understanding the Adjustment of Status, Immigrant Visa application, and interview process is critical for the immigration process. Careful preparation and thorough documentation are important components of a successful process. Consulting an immigration attorney can help families understand the available options, identify potential complications and approach the process with greater confidence. At Polatsek, Boheme & Wilkowski , we guide families, individuals, and businesses through U.S. immigration with a single goal: making your next step clear and achievable. About the Author: Mary Wilkowski is an immigration attorney and partner at Polatsek, Boheme & Wilkowski. The firm advises employers and families on work visas, PERM labor certification, and permanent residence under U.S. immigration law. The firm’s attorneys provide guidance on H-1B sponsorship, employment-based green cards, investor visas, and family immigration matters. Mary can be reached at: (954) 566-0377. Or: clientservices@polatsek.law . Polatsek, Boheme & Wilkowski 500 West Cypress Creek Road, Suite 650 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309 This article includes general information only that is intended to help consumers learn about the legal system. It does not constitute legal advice and must not be relied upon or used as a substitute for the counsel and services provided by a licensed attorney. You should refrain from acting on the basis of this information alone without seeking legal advice from a qualified attorney. Previous Next

The South Florida Sun Times is a weekly publication that covers Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, North Miami Beach, Dania Beach, Bal Harbor, Bay Harbor, Surfside, Pembroke Park, & Pembroke Pines. We distribute the Sun Times each Thursday to condos, single family homes, businesses, news racks, and mail subscription and online. Anchor 1

FPL Helps Eligible Seniors Access Bill Credits And Ways To Save South Florida Sun Times Oct 1, 2026 Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), A Subsidiary Of NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE), Is Providing Bill Credits To Help Eligible Seniors In Need Of Assistance. Through FPL Saving Steps, eligible customers who received assistance from the Emergency Home Energy Assistance for the Elderly Program (EHEAP) within the past 24 months will receive a one-time $200 bill credit and practical energy-saving education designed to help lower future energy bills. "We're focused on making it easier for customers to get the help they need," said Dawn Nichols, Vice President of Customer Service at FPL. "This effort provides immediate bill relief and simple, practical steps that customers can take to lower energy use over time. We want to reduce barriers and do the right thing, especially for older adults." The credits are part of FPL's broader effort to connect customers with support through the FPL Assistance Center, a one-stop resource that brings together bill assistance, energy-saving programs and local community resources in one place. "It is so encouraging and inspiring to see corporate partners like FPL step up to help seniors in a real, tangible way. FPL is not standing on the sidelines waiting for someone else to step in; they are putting resources directly toward meaningful relief and practical solutions that can help older adults save," said Josh Newby, President and CEO of Council on Aging of West Florida. "Our aging network thanks FPL, I thank them, and most importantly, the seniors we serve thank them for being a strong partner in our communities." What is FPL Saving Steps? FPL Saving Steps is available through the FPL Assistance Center and helps eligible customers learn practical ways to reduce everyday energy use and better manage monthly expenses. The program combines energy-saving education with a one-time $200 bill credit and is available to a broad range of households, including seniors, working families and others. Customers who may not qualify for government assistance are encouraged to explore FPL Saving Steps and see if they qualify for support. What is the FPL Assistance Center? The FPL Assistance Center is a one-stop place for customers to find ways to get help and save. It brings together bill support options, energy-saving programs and local community resources so customers can more easily find the help that fits their needs. How does the FPL Assistance Center help customers find short-term support? For customers facing temporary financial hardship or who need more time to pay, the FPL Assistance Center highlights options that provide support or payment flexibility, including: • Payment Extension provides eligible customers with extra time to pay their bill. • Federal assistance, such as Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), for income-qualified customers to pay their energy bill. • FPL Care To Share provides emergency bill-payment assistance or support for qualified electrical repairs for customers experiencing hardship. • Bill Extender offers an extended due date for eligible customers who would benefit from more time between when their bill is issued and when payment is due. • Budget Billing helps customers manage monthly expenses by smoothing seasonal bill fluctuations into a more predictable monthly amount. What other FPL programs can help customers save and lower their bills? FPL offers programs and tools that can help customers use energy more efficiently, understand their household energy use and manage monthly expenses over time. • FPL On Call gives customers bill credits of over $90 a year to briefly pause certain appliances during periods of peak energy demand. • The free Energy Manager tool provides personalized insights and recommendations tailored to a customer's home to help them better understand and manage energy use. • Through the FPL Community Energy Saver program, qualifying households can access energy-efficient home upgrades that can help lower energy use. How does the FPL Assistance Center help customers find additional support? The FPL Assistance Center helps customers connect with resources that may support a variety of needs beyond the utility bill, including food, housing and other essential expenses featuring support dedicated to seniors. The goal is to make it easier to find the right help at the right time and connect customers with organizations that can help with these essential needs. Customers can visit: www.FPL.com/Assistance to explore available programs, community resources and support options in one place. About Florida Power & Light Company Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) is America's largest electric utility, delivering reliable power to more than 6 million customer accounts, or approximately 12 million people across Florida. With a diverse generation mix that includes natural gas, nuclear, solar and battery storage, FPL operates one of the most fuel-efficient and cost-effective power generation fleets in the United States and has earned the ReliabilityOne National Reliability Award eight times in the past 11 years while keeping typical residential customer bills well below the national average. FPL is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE), the largest electric power and energy infrastructure company in North America. NextEra Energy is also the parent company of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, the nation's largest Energy Infrastructure investor and builder. For more information, visit: www.FPL.com . For further information: Media Line: (561) 694-4442. Previous Next

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage In Hollywood At ArtsPark On October 10th By City of Hollywood Oct 1, 2026 The Sights, Sounds And Traditions Of Latin America Will Fill The Artspark At Young Circle In Downtown Hollywood This October! Join Us As We Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month With The Hispanic Heritage Festival On Saturday, October 10th From 3:00 p.m. To 9:00 p.m. The festival will showcase Hispanic culture through live music, dancing, cultural performances and entertainment highlighting traditions from countries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. The celebration begins with the Parade of Nations from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by an afternoon and evening of performances on the ArtsPark stage. Featured artists include headliner Melina Almodovar, “La Muñeca de la Salsa,” representing Puerto Rico; Lisett Morales, “La Mulata del Sabor,” representing Cuba; Juano “Tu Cantante,” representing Colombia; and Ysabella Eslava, representing Peru. The entertainment lineup also includes Sebastian Parejo, Mariachi Aventureros, Tambores Venezolanos Vino Tinto, Fabrizzio, Carnaval de Barranquilla Miami USA, YC Dance Studio and Ritmo Dance Studios. Nathalie Rodrigue from iHeartRadio will serve as the event’s emcee. Local students will also take the stage throughout the festival, with performances from Hollywood Hills High School music students and Latin Dance Crew, Hollywood Academy of Arts and Science’s Hollywood Stars, Avant Garde Academy, Hollywood Hills Elementary, Driftwood Middle School, Apollo Middle School and Boulevard Heights Elementary. Presented by the City of Hollywood in partnership with the Hispanic Affairs Council, Koffee Kult and La Casita Tropical, bring your family and friends and experience a celebration of music, dance, tradition and culture of Hollywood’s Hispanic community in the heart of Downtown Hollywood. Join us at the Festival... Hispanic Heritage Festival 2026
Saturday, October 10th, 2026
3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
ArtsPark at Young Circle 1 Young Circle, Hollywood, Florida 33020 For more information, visit: https://www.hollywoodfl.org/Calendar.aspx?EID=11852&month=10&year=2026&day=10&calType=0 Previous Next

Get Ready For Wicked Manors - South Florida’s Largest Halloween Celebration Returns To Wilton Manors South Florida Sun Times Oct 1, 2026 Wicked Manors, Presented And Produced By The Pride Center At Equality Park, Returns To Wilton Manors On Saturday, October 31st, 2026. This year’s Masquerade of Mayhem theme promises an unforgettable night of outrageous costumes, live entertainment, DJs, dancing and surprises around every corner. Presented by Hunters Nightclub Wilton Manors, the City of Wilton Manors, the Safety and Security Sponsor, and Visit Lauderdale, the 2026 Presenting Destination Sponsor, the celebration will transform Wilton Drive into South Florida’s largest Halloween celebration. The event has historically attracted more than 40,000 attendees from 48 states and 27 countries and territories, making Wicked Manors a destination event for Halloween revelers from around the world. One of South Florida’s most anticipated Halloween traditions, Wicked Manors brings together residents, visitors and community supporters for an unforgettable night while raising funds for The Pride Center’s programs and services. Always held on Halloween night, from 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., the historic street festival takes place along Wilton Drive between Northeast 21st Court and North Dixie Highway at Five Points, with traffic closed to create a safe, pedestrian-friendly experience for thousands of revelers. Guests can enjoy two entertainment hubs, the Main Stage and North Stage, featuring live performances, DJs, a lively and competitive costume contest and nonstop Halloween excitement throughout the evening. Since its debut in 2007, Wicked Manors has transformed Wilton Drive into a one-of-a-kind Halloween experience where imagination takes center stage. Revelers showcase their creativity through elaborate costumes, compete for costume contest honors and come together for a night of entertainment and connection. “Wicked Manors is more than South Florida’s largest Halloween celebration, it is a powerful expression of community, creativity and connection,” said Robert Boo, CEO of The Pride Center at Equality Park. “For nearly two decades, this unforgettable event has brought people together to celebrate authenticity and creativity while generating critical support for the programs and services that strengthen our community. We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, partners, volunteers and attendees who make Wicked Manors such a meaningful and impactful tradition year after year.” Proceeds from Wicked Manors help support The Pride Center’s vital programs and services, including community connection, advocacy, health and wellness resources and essential support services throughout South Florida. The event also generates proceeds for participating South Florida NonProfits through the four entry points and VIP experience, helping sustain health, human and social services and programs that serve individuals and families throughout the region. Tickets: https://wickedmanors.org/tickets/ General Admission 
• Pre-sale before October 1st, 2026: $14.52
• After October 1st, 2026: $17.71 Premium Admission (21+)
• Pre-sale before October 1st, 2026: $39.01
• After October 1st, 2026: $46.47 Premium Admission includes entry to Wicked Manors plus five official Wicked drink tickets valued at $35 (excluding gratuity) VIP Admission (21+)
• Pre-sale before October 1st, 2026: $134.86
• After October 1st, 2026: $145.51 Wicked Manors is a rain or shine event. No refunds will be issued for any reason. About The Pride Center at Equality Park For more than 33 years, The Pride Center has provided a welcoming, safe space, an inclusive home that celebrates, nurtures and empowers the LGBTQ+ communities and its friends and neighbors in South Florida. Programs and services meet the distinct socio-economic, health, spiritual and safety needs of the South Florida community, with special expertise in LGBTQ+ care. The Pride Center hosts more than 45 regularly-meeting groups each month, including support, social and educational groups that focus on women, seniors, youth, men, transgender individuals, recovery, health, the arts, athletics, spirituality, games and more. More than 35,000 adults and youth attend activities at The Center each year. On The Pride Center’s five-and-a-half-acre campus, there is also The Residences at Equality Park, the first affordable and supportive housing community for seniors with disabilities in Florida, 30,000 square feet of office space, a playground and a newly renovated Mark Turner and Chuck Nicholls Garden Plaza in Wilton Manors. For more information, visit: https://pridecenterflorida.org . One of South Florida’s most anticipated Halloween traditions. Wicked Manors brings together residents, visitors and community supporters for an unforgettable night while raising funds for The Pride Center’s programs and services. Previous Next

Old Town Untapped Returns With A New Season Of Music, Art And Community South Florida Sun Times Oct 1, 2026 The City Of Pompano Beach’s Popular Old Town Untapped Cultural Arts & Music Block Party Returns For A New Season On Friday, October 2nd, 2026, From 6:00 p.m. To 10:00 p.m., Bringing An Evening Of Live Music, Contemporary Art, Local Creativity, Food And Community To The Heart Of Downtown Pompano Beach. “Untapped is where Pompano Beach takes off its calendar and puts on its personality. On one night, you can follow the sound of a bass line into a gallery, stumble upon an artist whose work stops you in your tracks, and end up sharing the evening with someone you’ve never met. That kind of beautiful collision is what makes Untapped special—unique.”
— Ty Tabing, Cultural Affairs Director, City of Pompano Beach

The FREE, family-friendly monthly event takes place every first Friday of the month in the area of NE 1st Street and N. Flagler Avenue, near the Bailey Contemporary Arts Center (BaCA), 41 Northeast 1st Street, Pompano Beach, Florida 33060. Guests are invited to explore gallery exhibitions, meet and discover the work of local artists, enjoy food trucks and experience live performances throughout the evening. Attendees are welcome to bring chairs and blankets. Free parking is available. Opening the new Untapped season on Friday, October 2nd, 2026 is Mama Fuma, the collaborative groove project of bassist Ariel DLP and vocalist Nikki Guerra. Formerly known as Guerra Grooves, Mama Fuma draws on their diverse musical influences to create high-energy original grooves and feel-good mashups infused with twice the funk and all the soul. You can REGISTER for Untapped at: https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/events/untapped Adding to the evening’s creative energy, “Into Neverland” opens Friday, October 2nd, 2026 at the Bailey Contemporary Arts Center. The exhibition continues through Thursday, December 17th, 2026 and presents a constellation of memories expressed through dreaming bodies, found objects and colorful motifs. Inspired by personal moments and familiar places—including raking pecans at a grandfather’s house, watching clouds at sunset, tossing rocks along railroad tracks, a grandmother’s quilt, the tumbling of clothes in a laundromat dryer and late-night cafes—the exhibition explores connections with cherished objects, inhabited places and encounters with strangers. Through paintings, books and floating installations, these memories come together to create an evocative realm somewhere between recollection and imagination. The Friday, October 2nd, 2026 opening reception for “Into Neverland” begins at 6:00 p.m., giving Untapped visitors an opportunity to experience the exhibition as part of the evening’s broader celebration of art and culture. The evening will also feature docent-led art tours from 8:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., offering visitors an opportunity to learn more about the exhibitions and the artists. Registration is available through the Untapped event listing. You can register for "Into Neverland" at: https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/events/into-neverland-2 A Second Exhibition Opens Friday, October 9th, 2026 The following Friday, October 9th, 2026 the arts calendar continues with the opening of “Experiments & Accidents” at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center. The exhibition runs through Wednesday, January 6th, 2026 with an opening reception at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 9th, 2026. In Experiments & Accidents, artist Mark Viau explores the creative tension between intention and unpredictability. The collection begins with deliberate experimentation, control and purpose before embracing unexpected shifts, spontaneous marks and unplanned discoveries that redirect the work and make it more alive. The exhibition draws a parallel between artistic process and life itself: although we make plans with intention, some of the most meaningful growth and discovery can emerge from the unexpected detours, disruptions and happy accidents along the way. Experiments & Accidents celebrates the freedom to surrender to the unplanned and discover what can emerge from it.

 You can register For "Experiments & Accidents at: https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/events/experiments-accidents Together, the October events launch a vibrant fall arts season in Pompano Beach, connecting live music, contemporary art, local artists and community through two consecutive Friday evenings. Old Town Untapped — Friday, October 2nd, 2026 Mama Fuma is scheduled for Friday, October 2nd, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at Northeast 1st Street & North Flagler Avenue in Downtown Pompano Beach, near the Bailey Contemporary Arts Center
41 Northeast 1st Street, Pompano Beach, FL 33060. The event is FREE and family-friendly.
 Take time to register for the event for a chance to be entered into a monthly giveaway for an event of your choice. Docent-led Art Tours will be held from 8:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Into Neverland Bailey Contemporary Arts Center
 • Friday, October 2nd, 2026 – Thursday, December 17th, 2026
• Opening Reception: Friday, October 2nd, 2026 │ 6:00 p.m.
 The address is: 41 Northeast 1st Street, Pompano Beach, Florida 33060. Experiments & Accidents Pompano Beach Cultural Center
 • Friday, October 9th, 2026 – Wednesday, January 6th, 2027
• Opening Reception: Friday, October 9th, 2026 │ 6:00 p.m.
 The address is: 50 West Atlantic Boulevard, Pompano Beach, Florida 33060 For more information about Old Town Untapped and upcoming arts and cultural programming, visit the Pompano Beach Arts website at: https://www.pompanobeacharts.org/ About Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs Department The mission of the Cultural Affairs Department, operating as Pompano Beach Arts, is to provide cultural programming that includes visual arts, digital media, music, film, theater, dance, and public art for the enjoyment and enrichment of residents and visitors to Pompano Beach, Broward County, and the greater South Florida area. The department programs and manages the City’s premiere cultural arts venues, including the Pompano Beach Cultural Center, Ali Cultural Arts Center, Bailey Contemporary Arts Center, and the Blanche Ely House Museum. The department also oversees the City’s Public Art Program and the Artists in Residence (AiR) initiative. Previous Next

‘Give Like A Kid Again’ For Real-World Impact This Halloween By Feature Impact Oct 1, 2026 Costumes. Candy. Jack-O-Lanterns Glowing On Porches. Halloween Is Filled With Moments That Spark Children’s Imaginations. This Halloween, Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF is inviting children and families to “Give Like a Kid Again,” turning imagination into kindness and helping children around the world. For eight decades, the campaign has shown children that even the smallest act of kindness can travel farther than any front porch and shine brighter than any jack-o-lantern. As the longest-running youth engagement campaign in the United States, it has inspired generations of children to discover that when kids help kids, one Halloween tradition can turn into a lifetime of impact. What started with just $17 in 1950, when a small group of children filled milk cartons with spare change to help children recovering from World War II, has grown into one of America’s most beloved Halloween traditions, raising nearly $200 Million to help the organization deliver lifesaving support for children around the world. Today, the iconic orange collection box reminds families that small acts of generosity can create lasting change. “Each Halloween, Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF reminds us that even the smallest acts of generosity can grow into something extraordinary,” said Shelley Diamond, Chief Marketing Officer, UNICEF USA. “For more than 75 years, this campaign has shown generations of children that you are never too young to make a difference and ‘Give Like a Kid Again’ is about passing that belief on to the next generation.” Beyond supporting programs in more than 190 countries and territories, donations strengthen the organization’s global humanitarian supply network, delivering emergency essentials like therapeutic food, medicine, blankets and safe water to children impacted by conflict, disasters and disease. • Be a mermaid and help make waves for clean water. Help provide safe water for a child for a year for $5. • Be a vampire and help scare away preventable diseases. World Polio Day, just a week before Halloween, provides an opportunity to protect 200 children under age 5 from Polio with a $43 donation. • Be a scientist and help uncover lifesaving answers. Provide 25 Malaria diagnostic tests for just $8, helping children receive timely treatment. • Be a teacher and help children write their next chapter. Provide 1,000 pencils to help children put their ideas, lessons and dreams on paper for $30. • Be a chef and help cook up a healthier future. Over a two-month period, $10 can treat 15 children by providing 450 packets of micronutrient powder. • Be an astronaut and help a girl reach for the stars. To help six girls feel confident in school, $36 can provide reusable menstrual pads. • Be a snowman and help bundle up a child against the cold. A donation of $50 could provide a child in an emergency setting with winter clothing, including a jacket, hat, scarf, mittens, socks, winter boots, a warm sweater and warm puffball trousers. • Be a soccer player (or referee) and help kick off playtime. Provide up to four packages of soccer balls for a child-friendly space for $25 to help kids just be kids again. This October, everyone can “Give Like a Kid Again” through the iconic orange collection box, online fundraising and family-friendly activities. Visit: https://unicefusa.org/TOT2026 to join the tradition and help make a difference for children around the world. Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF is inviting children and families to “Give Like a Kid Again” Previous Next

October Adventures Await - InterAct @ InterCon With Art, Wellness, Culinary Activations And More South Florida Sun Times Oct 1, 2026 October Is Heating Up At Intercontinental Miami With A Vibrant Lineup Of Seasonal Celebrations, Culinary Moments And Memorable Experiences Taking Over The Hotel All Month Long. Welcoming Both Hotel Guests And Miami Locals, The Iconic Downtown Destination Continues Its Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrations With Golden Happy Hour And The Return Of Salsa Night Hosted By Salsa Lovers. At the award-winning Pan-Latin steakhouse Toro Toro, diners are invited to embrace the spirit of Dia de los Muertos through celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval’s immersive culinary experience. October also offers the opportunity to ‘think pink’ in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month with an indulgent Pink La Bomba at Toro Toro and a special edition of Pink Power Yoga on SkyLawn. The following is the monthly schedule of events at the iconic luxury downtown Miami property. Harvest Hideaway Cabana Seasonal changes are subtle in Miami. While summer winds to a close up north, it’s harder to discern the differences in the Magic City. InterContinental Miami to the rescue with a wonderful harvest-inspired option, the Harvest Hideaway Cabana. In true Miami-style, enjoy all of the cozy autumn feels without having to give up your sunny poolside perch as the InterContinental transforms one of its luxury cabanas into a welcoming taste of Fall, complete with harvest inspired decor. Decorated with pumpkins, foliage, and a brilliant autumn colorscape, the special, limited time cabana includes oversized loungers, room for up to six guests, a stocked mini-fridge and a dedicated poolside server. Each guest will receive one specially concocted libation – the DirtyBrew Belvedere Vodka Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini. What would autumn be without college football and the NFL? The cabana features its own personal television to watch all the games. The Harvest Hideaway Cabana is available for booking at: https://www.icmiamihotel.com/daylife . Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrations 
Salsa Night Hosted By Salsa Lovers Returns
Dress to impress, grab your dancing shoes and get ready for an unforgettable night with non-stop salsa dancing and entertainment as InterContinental Miami’s Salsa Night returns to the ballroom. Beginning Friday, October 2nd, 2026 from 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., revelers will be transported to sultry Havana for an unforgettable night of dancing, salsa lessons, entertainment, and libations, with live entertainment. Admission is priced at $15; free for ladies before 10:00 p.m. All guests must be 21 or older. Valet parking is $12. For more information, visit: https://www.icmiamihotel.com/salsa-nights RSH Global Culinary Campaign - Dia de los Muertos
This Fall, internationally renowned chef Richard Sandoval is once again bringing his immersive Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) culinary celebration to Toro Toro, Sandoval’s Pan-Latin steakhouse located at the InterContinental Miami. The month-long campaign, which kicks off on Tuesday, October 6th, 2026 and runs through Tuesday, November 3rd, 2026 celebrates the rich traditions of Sandoval’s Mexican heritage through an unforgettable, multi-sensory experience: El Sol, honoring those who came before us through the warmth, light, and memories they leave behind. As part of the campaign, Toro Toro will be featuring exclusive offerings each with cultural significance to the celebration. Offered seven days a week, the special menu includes one dish and three cocktails, all available to order a la carte. Visitors can enjoy the Luz de Mar Tiradito, featuring salmon, seabass, saffron aguachile, mango relish, salsa macha, crispy sweet potato, and marigold, ($26) along with three delicious, specially crafted cocktails, all priced at $18 each. These delectable libations include SOL with sparkling wine, pomegranate liquor, marigold syrup, mango puree and orange bitters; and DDLM Sangria with red wine, aged rum, piloncillo grenadine, agave passion fruit, cinnamon and mango. In celebration of Dia de los Muertos, Toro Toro will present a special, one-night-only Pairing Dinner hosted by creator Richard Sandoval on Thursday, October 8th, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. Taking place in Toro Toro’s intimate El Matador Room, the three-course culinary experience is priced at $175++ per person and will feature bold flavors alongside multi-sensory culinary and cocktail pairings. See full menu with cocktail pairings when you make your advance reservations (required) via OpenTable. Golden Happy Hour Raise a glass at Toro Toro for "Golden Hour" Happy Hour! Golden Hour channels the sun’s most cinematic moment, and it transforms the space between day and night into a branded ritual. For seven days a week from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., guests can enjoy this one of a kind experience along with expertly crafted Dia de los Muertos cocktails priced at $14.99, including the Sol, The First Ray of Sunrise and Sangria, The Golden Sunset. This offer is available at Toro Toro's Bar, Spindle and Lounge.
Noche de Arte featuring Adam and Vanessa Lustig
On Monday, October 5th, 2026 and every Monday in October thereafter from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Noche de Arte will continue its weekly art residency at Gallery 100, with a special emphasis on Hispanic Heritage Month. InterContinental Miami is featuring live interaction with local Mexican artist Vanessa Lustig and her husband Adam Lusting, co-founders of ATELIERLUSTIG. Born in Mexico and raised between Mexico City and Miami, Vanessa is an experimental artist, jewelry designer, and founder of the Artistic Wellbeing Initiative. Her multidisciplinary practice is informed by a background in design, psychology, photography and creativity research. Adam is a self-taught artist and GIA-certified Diamanteur specializing in custom jewelry, diamonds, and gemstones. Together they create hand-felted wool sculptures, hand-embroidery on large-scale paper and photographs, fiber artworks with gilded elements on silk, and installation works incorporating responsive light. ATELIERLUSTIG will be in residence every Monday throughout the month of October, with works available for purchase. Gallery 100 is located in the heart of the hotel’s lobby and is open daily. Learn more about the event and artist – https://www.atelierlustig.com/studio ICM Goes Pink To commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, InterContinental Miami will gleam pink all October long in support of BRCAStrong, a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization aimed at supporting women who have been affected by Breast Cancer and Gynecological Cancers regardless of predisposition to a Hereditary Cancer. Financial support to routine monitoring or preventative surgery for Previvors, Thrivers, and Survivors throughout the journey towards health, positive self-image and inspired living. Treat Yourself to Pink La Bomba All month long, visitors to Toro Toro, the hotel’s signature dining destination located on the lobby level of the property, invites guests to indulge in a very special Pink La Bomba dessert throughout October. Priced at $28, the Pink La Bomba features a specially created pink chocolate half sphere filled with cream cheese mousse, dulce de leche, strawberry ice cream, fresh berries, cookie crumbles and vanilla and berry sauce. A portion of all proceeds from sales of the Pink La Bomba will be donated to BRCAStrong. Advanced dining reservations are encouraged and can be made on OpenTable. For more info, visit: www.torotoromiami.com ; Telephone: (305) 372-4710. Strength, Community & Hope at Pink Power Yoga On Monday, October 12th, 2026 the InterContinental Miami partners with Brie Mazen of Florida Yoga Mama for a meaningful Yoga Flow Class followed by the restorative sounds of Sound Bowl Healing on the hotel's SkyLawn. Guests are encouraged to wear pink workout attire in support of the themed class. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or simply looking to move, breathe, and connect, enjoy an evening of yoga, community, and stunning Biscayne Bay views while supporting BRCAStrong. Session begins at 7:00 p.m. After class, guests are encouraged to stay and connect with others in the community. Tickets are priced at $20 and all proceeds from ticket sales are being donated to BRCAStrong to help the non-profit continue to provide women in immediate need of post-mastectomy surgery care kits. For more information on Pink Power Yoga and to purchase a ticket, visit: https://links.brcastrong.org/events/event-details/6aa04465bb913ae251431c63 Howl-O-Ween Paws Patio On Wednesday, October 28th, 2026 treat your pup to a special spooky edition of Paws Patio as InterContinental Miami hosts its fourth annual free Howl-O-Ween Doggie Contest. Get in the Halloween spirit on the Bayside Terrace from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., where dogs and humans are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes for a chance to win some paw-some prizes including a luxury stay (and barking rights). The tail-waggin' good time is hosted by dog influencer Disco the Shih and includes free Puppuccinos and more fun surprises. For additional information and to reserve your spot, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/paws-patio-howl-o-ween-paawty-tickets-2000207453337?aff=oddtdtcreator InterContinental Miami is located at 100 Chopin Plaza, Downtown Miami, Florida 33131. For more information on weekly programming, visit: www.icmiamihotel.com/play . In true Miami-style, enjoy all of the cozy autumn feels without having to give up your sunny poolside perch. (Photos courtesy of InterContinental Miami) Treat your pup to a special spooky edition of Paws Patio as InterContinental Miami hosts its fourth annual free Howl-O-Ween Doggie Contest. This Fall, internationally renowned chef Richard Sandoval is once again bringing his immersive Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) culinary celebration to Toro Toro. Previous Next

Specialty Florida License Plates Support Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Broward County South Florida Sun Times Oct 1, 2026 Drive Change For Broward Youth By Supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Broward County (BBBS Broward) Everywhere You Go With A Specialty Florida License Plate. Sold through the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department, the Big Brothers Big Sisters’ plate costs $25 plus registration fees. The proceeds go directly to the Big Brothers Big Sisters chapter within the county the vehicle is registered in. Statewide, there are more than 10,000 Big Brothers Big Sisters plates already on cars, driving around and spreading the message of mentorship. Help Broward County take the lead ahead of Florida’s 66 other counties and support life-changing mentoring programs. Whether it’s matching a child or supporting ongoing mentorship activities, each plate makes a measurable impact. For every 150 specialty license plates sold, one new Little will be matched with a Big. BBBS Broward currently has 366 Littles on the waitlist who are ready to be matched. Every specialty plate makes a BIG difference by getting each youth one step closer to being matched with a mentor. The impact of the Big Brothers Big Sisters’ specialty license plate goes far beyond the funds raised. It creates brand awareness while driving, sitting at traffic lights and parked in lots. “When I’m stuck in traffic or stopped at a red light, I often read the license plates around me. Reading Big Brothers Big Sisters on plates will make more people aware of our worthy cause and hopefully encourage drivers and passengers to volunteer as Bigs or get involved in another meaningful way,” said Malena Mendez, President & CEO of BBBS Broward. “At only $25, it’s a great entry point to contribute to our mission and make it possible for us to create new matches between Bigs and Littles.” Having a positive adult role model sets youth up for success now and in the future. According to the 2024-2025 Impact Report, 98% of youth in BBBS Broward’s program graduated from high school, 20% are more likely to enroll in college and Littles earn 15% more over their lifetime. Through Florida’s specialty license plate program, millions of dollars have been raised for various organizations. To learn more and purchase a Big Brothers Big Sisters specialty license plate, go to: www.flhsmv.gov to find DMV locations throughout Broward County. When drivers receive their Big Brothers Big Sisters specialty license plate, they are encouraged to upload a photo posing with it to: www.bbbsbroward.org/licenseplate/ , so BBBS Broward can share it online, on social media and in their newsletter. About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County (BBBS Broward) has empowered young people to achieve their full potential through life-changing mentoring relationships. By connecting youth with caring adult mentors and providing access to critical resources and support services, BBBS Broward helps build self-confidence, foster emotional well-being, encourage academic success and prepare young people for bright and productive futures. Guided by its mission to ignite the power and promise of youth, BBBS Broward continues to be recognized as a leader within the mentoring field. The organization received Big Brothers Big Sisters of America’s 2025 Growth Award in recognition of its excellence in programming and significant year-over-year growth in the number of mentoring matches served. In 2026, BBBS Broward and Henderson Behavioral Health were honored with the Outstanding Healthcare Collaboration Award at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce Excellence in Healthcare Awards for their innovative wellness counseling partnership within the Little Steps, Big Strides program. This collaborative initiative expands access to wellbeing support for youth and families, helping participants build resilience and thrive both personally and academically. Support BBBS Broward with the purchase of a specialty Florida license plate. For more information and to learn about volunteer opportunities, visit: www.bbbsbroward.org , subscribe to the monthly newsletter and follow them on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. BBBS Broward Big Elijah Danielsen and Little Mason BBBS Broward President and CEO Malena Mendez and Board Member Tracy Miller of Miller Construction Lania Rittenhouse, BBBS Broward Board Chair BBBS Broward Board member David Greenberger and his Little Adam Board Member Gregg Goldstein and his sons Sharifa McKenley, BBBS Broward Vice President of Programs BBBS Broward team members: Catrina Diaz, Executive Administration Assistant; Jennifer Becker, Chief Operating Officer; and Jocelyn Cardentey, Development & Grants Specialist Previous Next