The Broward Center Invites The Community To A FREE Open House Jewish Connection News Aug 15, 2025 The Broward Center For The Performing Arts Will Host Its Free Annual Open House Showcasing Fall Classes On Saturday August 23, From 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. In The Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center At The Broward Center For the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Avenue In Fort Lauderdale. First Time Students Who Register In Person At The Open House Will Receive A 10% Discount. During the open house, guests can tour the education center, observe or participate in classes, meet the teaching artists, sing in Broadway Karaoke, win prizes, and enjoy an array of family activities and light refreshments. Singing, dance, improv and acting classes for children, teens and adults at the Broward Center are designed to encourage artistic expression and teach theater skills in a fun and supportive environment. Special classes for people with physical and intellectual disabilities are also available. Additionally, students have the opportunity to audition to be in a show or represent the Broward Center at upcoming community performances. Fall classes begin on Tuesday, September 2 and the majority continue for 10 weeks. Classes are limited in size and tailored to the appropriate age and skill levels from beginner to more advanced. All class fees include complimentary parking. Online class registration is quick and user friendly, and students who purchase a second class can enjoy a 10% discount on any additional class. Fall classes and open house schedules are available at www.BrowardCenter.org/Classes . Guests who plan to attend the open house are encouraged to RSVP in advance via online registration form at: https://browardcenter.wufoo.com/forms/rsvp-open-house-fall-classes-2025/ - Via email at: registrar@browardcenter.org - Or by phone at: (954) 468-2689. Need-based full and partial scholarships for the education programs are available thanks to the generosity of the Ronald Plotkin Scholarship Fund and David Kilmnick & Robert Vitelli Scholarship Fund. For more information visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Like us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter and: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @BrowardCenter, subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter - And join the conversation with #BrowardCenter . The Broward Center 2025/2026 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System. About The Broward Center for the Performing Arts One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 850 performances each year to more than 600,000 patrons, displaying a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level, the Nicklaus Children’s Health System Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion, and innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. With one of the largest arts-in-education programs in the United States, the Broward Center serves more than 100,000 students annually. The Broward Center also manages The Parker, an iconic Fort Lauderdale venue, the Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center on the campus of Nova Southeastern University and the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in Miami-Dade County. The Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Inc. receives and maintains funds to sustain, develop and secure the future of the Broward Center. The Broward Center is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org . Previous Next

Flamenco Masters Come To Aventura June 13, 2022 Share Siudy Flamenco presents A Dos a Flamenco suite created by Siudy Garrido with original music by composer/guitarist Jose Luis de La Paz. Siudy, along with maestro Jose Luis de la Paz interpret flamenco numbers “A Dos,” which means in a duet, describing mesmerizing dance solos accompanied by the simple yet intense musical presence of De la Paz guitar. The company ballet appears interspersed within-and-in between movements that take the audience on a journey into the intimate emotions in the music over the classic Flamenco rhythms known as Seguidilla, Alegrías and Solea. It explores and presents a journey through the diversity of colors, sensations, and emotions of a pure-rooted Flamenco, while at the same time remaining open to the present, a proper reading of the different styles of Flamenco dancing. Siudy Garrido Flamenco Company is known for collaborations with the Los Angeles Philharmonics, Flamenco superstars Farruquito and Antonio Canales. About Siudy Garrido Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Ms. Garrido began performing on stage at just five years old. Her dance education started at her mother’s academy, Siudy Quintero, whom she considers her most influential teacher. Following in her mother’s footsteps and answering her ancestral vocation, Ms. Garrido has dedicated her entire life to honoring and elevating the art of Flamenco. Throughout her outstanding career, she’s benefitted from the mentorship of other Flamenco influencers, such as: her aunt Azilde Henríquez, María Magdalena, Eduardo Serrano Iglesias “El Güito,” Ciro Diezhandino Nieto, Kasandra “La China,” Milagros Menjíbar, Adrián Galia, and Domingo Ortega. Ever an evolving artist, Ms. Garrido’s career has also led her to study other dance genres, such as: ballet, jazz, contemporary dance, and the Graham technique. Ms. Garrido has dedicated her entire life to honoring Flamenco dance. In each scene and with each movement, Ms. Garrido displays a deep exploration and understanding of new dance concepts, where Flamenco is nourished by the influences of other musical genres. The result is the evolution of this art form, which still very much honors the roots of traditional Flamenco. Today Ms. Garrido is an award-winning Artist, Choreographer and Artistic Director, who is well-known and highly-regarded worldwide. She is considered one of the most impressive talents in the contemporary Flamenco dance scene. She has been acclaimed by her wide-ranging fanbase and by the media, who describe her as: “dazzling,” “first class,” “perfection,” and “a queen of the scene.” She has been recognized for her artistic vision, which combines traditional and contemporary techniques in a Flamenco style that is completely her own. Since 2000 – when she founded her own company – until today, Ms. Garrido has served as a Principal Dancer, Choreographer, and Artistic Director of the Siudy Garrido Flamenco Company, a non-profit organization with new headquarters in Miami since 2015. Their mission is to create, produce, and elevate Flamenco dance in the United States and abroad. This mission is achieved by inspiring the next generation of aspiring Dance professionals through a variety of educational programs.] Ticket & Location Information Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets On-Line At: https://www.aventuracenter.org/ By Phone At: (877) 311-7469. Or By Phone At: (954) 462-0222. In person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center’s Box Office Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, Please Call: (954) 660-6307. Showings Saturday, October 8, 2022 - 8:00 PM Sunday, Octpber 9, 2022 - 5:00 PM The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the Conversation On: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter Or: #aventuracenter. < Previous News Next News >

Always Remember: The Cuban-American Experience By Marilyn Morales November 10, 2023 Share Cuban-Born American Marilyn Morales has written the definitive and timeless musical about the Cuban-American Experience – which speaks to the ageless plight of all refugees. This epic work is a love letter to all people who have sought liberty – and will be enjoyed by audiences for generations to come! Always Remember! This epic full-scale work is a love letter to all people who have sought liberty. The intriguing narrative, unforgettable songs, rich original musical score, bold dialogue and dance combine to make a thrilling live experience that will be enjoyed by audiences for generations to come! A Message From the Creator I lived this. My beloved family, much like the Santos family in Always Remember, left Cuba with nothing more than the clothes we were wearing and one suitcase of personal belongings for the five of us. This work is dedicated to my parents and to the countless refugees who have made the greatest personal sacrifices for the hope of a better future for their children. While the story is a fiction, every single scene, dialogue and word in this show comes from my experience or a family member's story – or from well-researched documented accounts. As a narrative of our Cuban Culture, I have been writing the story of Always Remember my entire life. And now, with the eyes of the world taking a hard look at the Cuban-American experience, the time is now for this to see the light of day. At intermissions and following showcase performances, I have been deeply gratified to receive very emotional responses from fellow Cuban refugees - as well as those from other countries. I am happy to say that my story appears to be resonating with those who have attended the showcases so far. From an overarching artistic perspective, I sought to craft this work in the grand tradition of the classic and enduring musicals. This is an honest work, as it is the work of my life - my Magnum Opus. There are 23 songs in Always Remember. The styles that I employ, i.e. Guaguanco, Mambo, Rumba, Tango and, contrastingly, Salsa, Rock Ballade, Broadway-Style Numbers and Incidental Music have been painstakingly integrated into the fabric of the story. I am very lucky to have connected with an extraordinary team of artists and technicians, who have been faithful to the vision of Always Remember. My husband Kirk is my Arranging Assistant and Dialogue Consultant. Theatrical Consultant Michael Duarte, Fine Arts Specialist Lilia Fontana, Actor and Director Brad Shank, Vocal Coach Manny Perez and Public Relations Specialist Arely Ruiz are just the tip of the iceberg of talented and passionate professionals who have advised me on my journey. My motivation to create Always Remember came from my time in California in the 1990’s. I was exasperated from hearing so many uninformed people tell me how "wonderful things are in Cuba." My angst got the best of me, and I decided to communicate the story of many Cuban refugees in the best way I know: through the organic fusion of music, lyrics and story. I longed to create a story, score and set of songs that could stand the test of time against the likes of West Side Story, The Sound of Music, Madame Butterfly and other musicals and operas I cherished from childhood. In the grander context of my life, the creation of this show is allowing me to express myself in every way possible. I am telling the story of my life and that of many fellow Cubans, and I have created a musical I believe in with all my heart. The performance will be held on Saturday, January 13th, 2024 - 8:00 p.m., at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Tickets are available starting at $40.00 Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. You can purchase tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org By phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 462-0222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. Parking FREE parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. < Previous News Next News >

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Argentina's Pigerai Ristorante: Highly-Acclaimed, Opens First U.S. Location In Wynwood July 19, 2024 Share Argentina’s highly-acclaimed Piegari Ristorante, renowned for its handcrafted, Authentic Italian Cuisine, exceptional service and sophisticated design, is now open in the heart of Wynwood. Like its predecessor in Argentina, this North American location at 137 Northwest 26th Street, Miami, Florida 33127 will indubitably become known as a must-try fine dining destination and a premier location for celeb-spotting. The expansion to the United States marks a notable milestone for a brand that has maintained icon status since it opened its doors in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1994. The Miami location will bring a taste of Italian Culinary Excellence to Miami's exciting and ever-growing internationally-inspired culinary landscape. Piegari will deliver a refined level of sophistication and elegance to a neighborhood world-famous for its vibrant, urban energy. "This Miami location has been a project long in the works and longer in development,” quips Owner Alberto Chinkies. "We are thrilled that opening day is on the horizon and we can finally treat locals and visitors to the extraordinary dining and hospitality we work so hard every day to deliver.” Piegari Ristorante seamlessly merges its signature dishes with bold and exquisite flavors with a menu featuring Cold Entrees, Warm Starters, Homemade Pasta, Secche Dried Pasta, Risotto, Fish, Chicken, Salads, Carne e Vitello, Sides and Desserts. Menu highlights include Homemade Pastas such as its famous Corde di Chitarra alla Carrettiera – Guitar String Pasta tossed with Pomodoro Sauce, Cherry Tomatoes and Olives; Ravioli alla Piegari – Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli baked in a Cream Pomodoro; and Fettucini al Nero di Seppia – Squid Ink Fettuccine with Shrimp tossed in a Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce and topped with Red Caviar. Signature Risottos include Risotto Frutti di Mare, a Seafood Risotto; Risotto alla Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables; and Risotto alla Ragú with a choice of Sirloin or Lamb. Main plate specialties include the signature Pollo alla Tutti – Organic Chicken with Onion, Red Bell Peppers, Cherry Tomatoes, Black Olives and Demi Glace; Branzino al Sale – Mediterranean Sea Bass encrusted in Sea Salt; Sogliola – Dover Sole with Mugnaia Sauce; Milanese alla Napoletana – Breaded Sirloin with Tomato and Fresh Mozzarella; and Costoletta alla Salvia – Grilled Single Cut Veal Chop with Sage, Shallots and Roasted Potatoes. Hearty sides – such as Truffle Patate Fritte, Spinaci al Graten, Creamed Spinach and Broccoli Aglio e Olio, Sautéed Broccoli with Garlic and Olive Oil – round out the menu. The famed desserts at Piegari are not to be missed. Standouts include sweet and indulgent creations such as Crepés alla Mela served and flambeéd tableside; Vulcano al Cioccolato, a rich Chocolate decadence served with Vanilla Ice Cream; Profiteroles made with Sweet Dough filled with Custard-Cream Ice Cream and Chocolate Sauce; Tiramisu; Flan with Cream and Dulce De Leche; and Fragola alla Lampara – Glazed Strawberries with Ice Cream and Almonds, among others. The cocktail program promises a mix of classic and creative libations that perfectly complement the cuisine as well as an impressive wine list. Standout signature cocktails include the namesake Piegari Spritz with Fresh Clementine Juice, Prosecco and House Crafted Citrus Cordial; Flora & Fauna with UNA Vodka, Raspberry Cordial, Doganale Salvia e Limone, Bonanto Aperitif and Prosecco; Let That Man-Go with Centinela Reposado Tequila, Fresh Mango, Ginger Falernum, Lime Juice and Agave Nectar; and The Slice of Life with Mare Mediterraneo Gin, Doganale Bergamotto, In-House Crafted Blackberry & Thyme Cordial and Seventeen Tonic. Thoughtful in its design, Piegari Ristorante evokes a warm and inviting atmosphere where style and sophistication converge. A stunning 160-seat dining room melds natural tones with splashes of color with a combination of seating that includes tables, intimate booths, and spacious banquettes where guests can watch the action unfold in the open kitchen. Blonde ribbed wood paneled walls that are complemented by shades of blue, ambient lighting, splashes of greenery and gold accents. An intimate bar, seating 16, features white polished marble atop dark blue wainscoting. Backlit gold shelves, perfectly positioned against stacked brick, complete the look. Piegari Ristorante Miami is now open at 137 NW 26th Street in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District. The restaurant will offer dinner only upon opening with lunch service to follow. For more information and to stay updated on opening news, follow Piegari on Instagram at: @piegariusa. < Previous News Next News >

Good Or Sweet? How Do You Like Your Year?! By Rabbi Moishe Kievman - Chabad Chayil September 20, 2024 Share “Shana Tova Umetuka” - “May you have a good and sweet year” is what we typically wish each other in the month leading up to the Jewish New Year, and I bet you’ve always wondered why we give a double wish, that the year should be both good and sweet. If it's good, isn't it sweet? It's got to be more than just poetic. The Talmud teaches us that everything that happens in the world is for the good. And although many times it seems far from good, you should know that ultimately it somehow is for the good. We therefore wish each other, that not just should you have a good year, but also a sweet one. A year that is not just ultimately for the good, but rather one where the good is obvious to all. A year that is deliciously sweet! Many give each other Tegalach, Honey Cookies or Honey Cake - known as Lekach. In fact the Chassidic custom is to specifically ask someone (usually the Rabbi, but not necessarily) for a piece of or a Shtickel Lekach. We hope and pray that if there's anything that we must ask or beg anyone for in the coming year, we should fulfill it with that ask. It is also the custom of eating sweet foods on Rosh Hashanah itself, especially an apple dipped in honey with a special prayer that G-d grant us a good and sweet year. The Challah is also dipped in honey. A special dish known as Tzimmes is a European carrot concoction cooked in honey. As well as many other foods we eat with honey. My mother z'ls delicious Tzimmes included Chuck fleish and marrow bones and was one of the most delicious dishes ever. Ah, good memories! Of course by now you surely know that the theme of honey throughout this season symbolizes the sweet year we all yearn for. But why specifically honey? Why not sugar, splenda or any other sweetener? For starters, Israel was blessed to be a land flowing with milk and honey! Eating honey, wherever we may be, reminds us of our ancient homeland and our deep connection to Israel. (We hope and pray for peace in Israel, and that G-d protects its people from any harm. May we get back the remainder of the hostages alive and may our soldiers come home safely to their families without the need for any war). Have you ever seen an expiration date on honey? Honey can last for a really long time! A quick search on the internet will tell you that honey can last for centuries, but perhaps it can even last longer than that! Many times there are people that get blessings. They win the lottery or stumble across a treasure. But the blessings unfortunately don't always last and all their money can disappear as fast as it appeared or even worse, break families and friends apart. On Rosh Hashanah we pray that we not only get a blessed year, but that the blessings last. Furthermore, honey can be used as a preservative. When Adam and Eve, whose birthdays we celebrate on Rosh Hashanah, were created, they were commanded to work the earth and to guard it. To protect it and all that it contains. To preserve the world and constantly make it a better place. I wish each and every one of you a Shana Tova Umetuka! May you and your families be blessed with a Happy and Healthy, Good and Sweet New Year! May you be showered with blessings and may they last for a very long time! May you always be there for others! May you be a preservative for this beautiful world and help bring it to the perfection G-d has intended for it! May this year be your best year ever! This year we will celebrate Rosh Hashanah beginning the evening of Wednesday, October 2nd at sundown, and concluding Friday evening, October 4th at nightfall, going straight into Shabbos. To learn more about Rosh Hashanah and the many customs associated with it visit: www.ChabadChayil.org/High-Holidays. You can also pick up a free holiday guide at Chabad Chayil's office or call us and we will be happy to email or mail it to you free of charge. I encourage you to attend your local Chabad or Synagogue to enjoy Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot and all the high holidays to their fullest. Of course you can always join us at The Family Shul for services or a holiday dinner, but you would need to RSVP in advance at: (305) 770-1919. Or: www.TheFamilyShul.com . The community dinner will of course include Apples Dipped in Honey, Traditional Round Challah, Gefilte Fish, my mothers Tzimmes recipe, Kugel and all the delicious holiday foods! Don’t stay home alone! Come join your Chabad family! The Author Rabbi Kievman is the ambassador of The Rebbe to Highland Lakes, FL. He's founder of CHAP - an afterschool program for Jewish children in Public Schools, Gan Chabad Preschool, Rabbi at The Family Shul & together with his wife directs Chabad Chayil. He can be reached at: (305) 770-1919. Or: rabbi@ChabadChayil.org . < Previous News Next News >

Thanksgiving - Have An Attitude Of Gratitude By Bryan Golden Nov 19, 2025 Thanksgiving Is Much More Than A Big Meal With Family And Friends. It's A Time To Reflect On And Be Thankful For All Of The Good Things You Have. It's Important To Be Grateful, Not Just On Thanksgiving, But Each And Every Day. Rather Than Lamenting What You Feel Is Lacking In Your Life, Begin Each New Day By Developing An Attitude Of Gratitude. Take Inventory Of Your Blessings And You Will Be Surprised At Just How Much You Have To Be Thankful For. If you have enough to eat, a place to live, a way to get around, people who care about you, or people you care about, then you are wealthy. If you lack any of these elements, you must still be grateful for what you do have, while striving to obtain whatever is absent. Focus on all positive aspects of your life. Take nothing for granted. Every morning, recharge your appreciation. Be happy for everything there is, not upset over what you feel is missing. Dreams of the future shouldn’t diminish appreciation for the present. If all you do is concentrate on what you want, you won't enjoy today. Don't be jealous of others; what they do or have has no bearing on you. You can feel bitter or resentful for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you feel something is missing from your life, things aren't going your way, or you have been treated unfairly. You may wonder, "why do these things always happen to me?" Life's problems tend to dominate your thoughts, turning your focus to what you feel is wrong. You may start to resent those who appear to be better off. You’re apt to dwell on things you think would make your life better if you had them. If only you had more money, more time, a bigger house, a different car, a different job, a different boss, had picked a different career, etc. Once your attitude becomes one of deficiency instead of abundance and appreciation, you can become overwhelmed by feelings of frustration and feel like a victim. As this happens, a consuming vicious cycle starts. Being bitter or resentful blows situations out of proportion. People who are bitter frequently find that their situations deteriorate and their mental and physical health decays. It’s difficult, if not impossible, to achieve your goals while you are bitter or resentful. Regardless of what challenges might befall you, bitterness makes finding solutions much more elusive. There is no point to feeling bitter since it accomplishes nothing, harms you and makes things worse. Filling yourself with gratitude on a daily basis makes you feel good, while driving out negative feelings. Begin your practice of gratitude each morning as soon as you wake. Every day is a great day. If you have any doubts, try missing one. Take inventory of everything, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, that is good in your life. If it helps, make a written list of all things you are grateful for. Read your list every day. As you do this, you will build and reinforce your attitude of gratitude. Don't waste any time with what you feel you don't have. Keep things in perspective. Consider all the people who have overcome difficulties far worse than yours. Don't be consumed by your problems, there is always a solution. Maintaining an attitude of gratitude allows your mind to devise a resolution for your circumstances. Make everyday a day of Thanksgiving and you will be amazed how much better your life will become. Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits." Contact Bryan at: Bryan@columnist.com . Or visit: www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com Copyright 2025 Bryan Golden Bryan Golden, Author of "Dare to Live Without Limits. Previous Next

Reel Fun In South Florida - 10 Tasty Reasons To Dive Into The South Beach Seafood Fest This Fall By Merilee Kern, MBA October 16, 2024 Share As October kicks off, the much-anticipated South Beach Seafood Festival is poised to take Miami Beach by storm for its 12th annual event, reeling in seafood aficionados from near and far, hook, line and sinker. This four-day culinary extravaganza, running from October 23rd - October 26th, 2024, promises to be an unforgettable celebration of food, drink and entertainment, all infused with the vibrant Miami culture. This year’s fest is set to be bigger and better than ever with throngs of participating restaurants, celebrity chefs, unforgettably delectable dishes and an atmosphere buzzing with excitement. This is a must-attend annual event for anyone who loves a gastronomic experience executed with South Beach Miami’s signature flair. “Save the date for the 2024 South Beach Seafood Festival, an iconic event that has become a cornerstone of Miami’s cultural scene. Each year, thousands of locals and visitors from across the country come together to celebrate Miami and the beach’s exceptional culinary landscape and vibrant beachside atmosphere,” said Valerie Roy, Co-Founder of the festival and CMO at CI Management, the team behind the South Beach Seafood Festival. “Whether you’re a seafood aficionado, an entertainment enthusiast, or simply in search of an unforgettable week of flavor set against the stunning backdrop of South Beach, this festival promises an experience that will captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories.” Here’s why the 2024 South Beach Seafood Festival is a must-attend culinary celebration for seafood lovers and fun-seekers, alike. 1. Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine Hosting Food Network star Robert Irvine, best known for “Restaurant: Impossible,” is bringing his culinary expertise and larger-than-life personality to the festival. Irvine will host and serve as the official “Chef Ref” at the “VIP Chef Showdown.” There, he’ll be in charge of highlighting local chefs, overseeing the culinary face-offs and participating in special events throughout the weekend, including culinary demos in the Milam’s Market’s Culinary Showcase Kitchen on Saturday with a special bottle signing to introduce his latest venture, Irvine Vodka. 2. Supporting Local Talent The festival shines a spotlight on South Florida’s culinary stars, with chefs from some of the region’s most beloved restaurants taking center stage during different events across the multi-day soiree. For example, guests can expect to sample dishes from top spots like RED South Beach, ZUMA, Pubbelly Sushi and Meat Market during the five-course experience at Thursday’s “Crabs, Slabs, and Cabs.” Each participating chef will serve their own delectable course, or in collaboration with other chefs confirmed for the event, meaning patrons are sure to experience sensational cuisine from some of the area’s best. 3. Epic Live Entertainment The South Beach Seafood Festival is more than just great food—it’s also about enjoying the experience. Live entertainment will keep the energy high throughout the event, with the Jack Daniel’s Live Stage being the main site for chef battles, such as the “VIP Chef Showdown” hosted by “Chef Ref” Irvine. In addition to the mouthwatering food, guests will enjoy live DJs to dance the day away at the Jack Daniel’s Live Stage when competitions aren’t ongoing, as well as plenty of action at the Pacifico Beach Club and High Noon’s Lifeguard Dance Party throughout the event. 4. Elevated VIP Options The festival begins Wednesday with an exclusive five-course dinner at the renowned Joe’s Stone Crab. Hosted by Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, this will offer guests a menu of exceptional cuisine, kicking off the week with freshly cracked stone crabs. Set in the historic ‘Jesse’s Room,’ diners will enjoy an exclusive meal steeped in the rich history and charm of this iconic venue. For those looking for an even more elevated experience, premium upgrades will be available, including access to exclusive lounges like the Stone Crab Lounge, where guests can indulge in a more intimate setting while taking in the festivities. 5. The VIP Chef Showdown The ultimate culinary competition takes center stage on Friday of the festival. Twenty-two of Miami’s top chefs will go head-to-head in 11 thrilling battles, each showcasing their skills and seafood mastery, with Chef Ref Irvine serving as host. Festival-goers will sip on their favorite cocktails, sample dishes at the battle tents and vote on their favorites in each battle to help each restaurant win the people’s vote, before turning their attention to the Jack Daniels’ Live Stage to watch the 22 executive chefs battle it out live. Each chef will have 15 minutes to curate the perfect dish against their competitor for a panel of main stage judges who will weigh and determine the champions. The event will also feature the Tequila Herradura Bartender Showdown, where four bars will go head-to-head in competition. 6. All-Inclusive Saturday Seafood Slam This year’s main event is the “Seafood Slam” on Saturday, debuting an new all-inclusive format. With one ticket, festival-goers can enjoy unlimited tastings of the leading samples and beverages from over 40 of South Florida’s finest restaurants on the seafood scene. The event features a stellar lineup of restaurants from across the area’s favorite neighborhoods, including: Area 31, Barton G, Billy G Catering, Café Bernie, CalaMillor Gourmet Experience, Casa Matilda Steakhouse and many more. 7. Interactive Culinary Demos Throughout the weekend, festival-goers will have the chance to watch and learn from the best. Culinary demonstrations by top chefs will be featured in Milam’s Market Culinary Showcase Kitchen, offering sessions that are sure to inspire home cooks. It’s more than just a cooking demo—it’s an interactive opportunity to learn from top chefs. You can pick up new culinary techniques and even taste what the chefs prepare right in front of you. Chef Irvine will be performing his own demonstration on Saturday in Milam’s Market Culinary Showcase Kitchen with a special bottle signing to introduce his latest venture, Irvine Vodka. 8. Exclusive Wine Pairings and Local Mixology Beyond the seafood, the festival’s wine pairings elevate the dining experience to new heights. Expertly curated by title sponsor Breakthru Beverage Florida, expect to savor fine wines from Umani Ronchi, Gundlach Bundschu Winery and more, enhancing every bite. Beverage options will be available during each and every session of the festival. Friday’s Tequila Herradura Bartender Showdown is the perfect opportunity to see some of Miami’s top mixologists in action. Four bartenders will compete live, crafting innovative cocktails that showcase the best of local spirits and flavors before the final round heads to the main Jack Daniel’s Live Stage for a winner to be determined with the help of the people’s vote. This lively cocktail competition caps off an ultimate beach bash night at the South Beach Seafood Festival. 9. Cultural Diversity in Cuisine Recognized by USA Today, Forbes and the Travel Channel as one of the top seafood festivals in the U.S., the South Beach Seafood Festival has become a cornerstone of Miami’s cultural scene. It’s not just about the food—it’s about celebrating the vibrant, diverse and lively spirit of the city. Beyond traditional seafood dishes, the festival features a blend of international flavors from various cultures that resonates with Miami’s melting pot of culinary sensibilities. For example, the Saturday “Seafood Slam” will feature a stellar lineup of multi-cultural restaurants from across South Florida’s favorite neighborhoods, including Hoy Como Ayer, Jarana, La Pata Gorda, Lona Cocina, MAYU by Aromas Del Peru, Playa Bowls North Miami Beach, Southern Kulture Grill, SuViche, Tacos and Tattoos, Tartufo Prestige, Tasty T’s Catering, Te Tequenitos LLC, Viva La Pasta and more. 10. A Cause That Matters In addition to showcasing the region’s top culinary talent, the festival supports the CI Foundation’s EAT SMART Program, a 501(c)(3) NonProfit dedicated to providing Healthy Meals and Nutritional Education to the local community and Florida’s youth through Miami-Dade Public Schools. The mission of the program is to focus on the fight against Childhood Hunger and Childhood Obesity by finding a better balance through Health, Wellness, Nutrition and exercise throughout Miami-Dade County. Each year, a portion of the proceeds from the South Beach Seafood Festival benefits the nonprofit. These reasons, singularly and certainly in combination, make the 12th Annual South Beach Seafood Festival an unmissable event this fall. Recognized by USA TODAY as one of the “Top 5 Specialty Festivals in The Country,” by Forbes as one of the “Top 5 Things to Do This Fall,” and by the Travel Channel as the “Best Seafood Festival in the US,” the South Beach Seafood Festival is a must-attend event for seafood lovers near and far. In addition to showcasing the region’s top culinary talent, the festival supports the CI Foundation’s EAT SMART Program, a 501(c)(3) NonProfit dedicated to providing Healthy Meals and Nutritional Education to the Local Community and Florida’s youth through Miami-Dade Public Schools. Tickets for the 2024 South Beach Seafood Festival are now on sale at: https://sobeseafoodfest.com/ - and social media mavens can follow the epicurean adventures on Instagram at: @sobeseafoodfest and Facebook: @SOBESeafoodFest. (Photos Courtesy: www.facebook.com/SOBESeafoodFest) < Previous News Next News >

Need Money For A Special Assessment? Miami-Dade County Is Offering Some Condo Owners Loans Up To $50,000 Fri Feb 03 2023 17:16:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Mini-FLOW (Florida Licensing on Wheels) for Seniors Ages 55+ May 20, 2021 Share The City of Sunny Isles Beach has resumed the Mini-FLOW (Florida Licensing on Wheels) service with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The City of Sunny Isles Beach has resumed the Mini-FLOW (Florida Licensing on Wheels) service with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The next service will take place on Friday, May 21 from 9 am – 1 pm at Pelican Community Park, 18115 North Bay Road. The service is only open to seniors ages 55+ and appointments are required. Due to COVID-19, there are several new measures in place to help keep everyone safe. Those wishing to make an appointment must call 305.792.1706; no walk-ups will be permitted. Only seniors ages 55+ may request an appointment. On the day of your appointment, a temperature check and screening is required for anyone entering Pelican Community Park. Only the individual with the appointment is allowed to enter the facility; no guests will be permitted. Facial coverings are required and social distancing measures will be in place. About Mini-FLOW Take advantage of this convenient method to renew a driver license, obtain a replacement driver license, change a name or address on a driver license, get an identification card, renew a vehicle registration, obtain a disabled parking permit, or purchase a specialty license plate. Florida has new documentation requirements for residents renewing or obtaining a driver's license or photo ID card. Please visit flhsmv.gov for a complete listing of documents needed and other information related to obtaining a driver's license or photo ID card. Fees vary based on service, for more information visit flhsmv.gov or call 850.617.2000. To schedule your Mini-FLOW appointment or request information about Mini-FLOW, call 305.792.1706. Are you REAL ID ready? Beginning October 1, 2021, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will officially begin enforcing the REAL ID Act of 2005 at airports. This will require all Americans to present REAL ID-compliant identification to go through security. If you have obtained a driver license or ID card after January 4, 2010 in Florida, you most likely already have a REAL ID. Check the upper-right corner of your identification card for a star. This means you have a REAL ID. For more information, visit dhs.gov/real-id. < Previous News Next News >