Walk Your Way To Better Health Wed May 15 2024 16:08:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Are You Ready To Pay For Fall Tuition? How To Shop For Student Loans By BPT Aug 6, 2025 Parents, Important Tuition Deadlines Are Quickly Approaching! Are You And Your College Student Prepared To Make Your First Tuition Payment? If You Have A Financial Gap, Now Is The Time To Make Money Moves And Secure Funds To Pay For Your Student's Higher Education. How parents are paying for college While parents aren't required to help pay for their child's college education, many do. According to College Ave's 2025 Parent Survey, nearly all parents (94%) currently help or plan to help their children pay for college. However, among all parents surveyed, 77% reported that paying for college is stressful and 71% were surprised by the high cost. There are many financial sources parents use to pay for their children's college tuition. The parent survey found that the top three ways parents help or plan to help pay for college are through regular income and savings (67%), grants and scholarships (64%), and 529 college savings accounts (45%). But what do you do when these sources aren't enough to cover the full cost of college? Like many families, you may opt to use student loans to cover the gap. Read on to learn how to shop smart for student loans and make your child's education a reality. What are my loan options? One of the fastest and simplest ways to immediately cover a financing gap is through student loans. Not sure how much you'll need to borrow? No problem. You can use a handy online Student Loan Calculator, like the one from College Ave, to better understand the total cost of the loan and estimate your monthly payments. Next, make sure your student finishes filling out their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Not only does this form help the government and schools determine the types of financial aid your student is eligible to receive, but it also provides your family with access to federal student loans. According to College Ave's survey, 41% of parents reported using or planning to use federal student loans to help pay for college. Federal student loans in the student's name should be your first option before exploring other forms of college financing. By taking out a federal student loan, your child will have access to unique benefits like income-based repayment plans that aren't typically available through private loans. If you don't have enough to cover tuition and college fees after exhausting these options, you can still pay for fall tuition by exploring private student loans. How to shop for private student loans Shopping for private student loans may sound overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. College Ave offers parents and students a customer-friendly, stress-free student loan experience. Thanks to its simple three-minute application process, College Ave can help you breathe a little easier as you help fund your child's educational journey. Plus, with competitive rates and a variety of loan repayment options, you'll find the right private student loan that fits your budget. While you're there, you can also find more useful information on how to navigate the road to college. Make the most of your time together This summer, don't get bogged down with financial decisions. Make sure to secure federal student loans and shop for private student loans early on so you can enjoy a bit of summer with your child and celebrate this next phase of their life. To learn more about private student loans, visit: www.CollegeAve.com . Previous Next

North Miami Mayor Responds to New Florida Education Standard August 15, 2023 Share As a Florida educator, the new standards for Black History Education in Florida are a disappointing step backward in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the curriculum. By reducing the emphasis on the struggles and contributions of Black people throughout history, these standards undermine the progress toward a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of our nation's past. Florida's decision to downplay the significance of events such as the Civil Rights Movement and prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Toussaint Louverture, Marcus Garvey, and Malcolm X is a disservice to students. By glossing over these critical historical moments, the state perpetuates a sanitized and whitewashed version of the past, ultimately failing to educate students on the Systemic Racism and Discrimination African Americans face. Moreover, this move appears to be a deliberate attempt to marginalize the experiences and accomplishments of Black Americans in favor of a distorted narrative that downplays the impact of Racial Inequality and the ongoing struggle for Social Justice. This perpetuates historical inaccuracies and hinders efforts to foster empathy, understanding, and unity among diverse communities. Education should be a powerful tool to combat Racism and promote inclusivity. Unfortunately, Florida's new standards do the opposite, reinforcing a narrow historical perspective that fails to address the roots of Racial Disparities and the ongoing fight for equality. As a society, we should strive for an inclusive curriculum that highlights the diverse experiences and achievements of all Americans, ensuring that the next generation is better equipped. < Previous News Next News >

CityPlace Restaurants Celebrate Miami Spice Aventura Digest Sep 5, 2025 Miami Spice Returns Through Tuesday, September 30th! Foodies Can Enjoy The Magic City’s Annual Culinary Celebration, Not Just On South Beach, But At Cityplace Doral – South Florida’s Premier Wellness, Entertainment, Dining And Restaurant Destination In The Heart Of Doral. Miami Spice spotlights Miami’s dynamic food scene, bringing the community together to savor unforgettable flavors and enjoy exclusive deals and one-of-a-kind offerings with approachable menus for lunch, brunch, and dinner. Diners can enjoy chef-curated prix fixe menus for $35 for lunch and brunch and $45 for dinner through September. The following CityPlace Doral restaurants are participating in Miami Spice by offering special promotions: At King’s Dining and Entertainment, guests can enjoy a playful twist on Miami Spice with a three-course lunch for $35 or dinner for $45, each including a non-alcoholic beverage and an hour of bowling or billiards. The lunch menu features starters such as Buffalo Chicken Wontons, Crispy Pork Dumplings, and Southwestern Spring Rolls, followed by entrées including Chicken Tinga Tacos, a classic burger, Fried Chicken Sandwich, or any house-made pizza or flatbread, which is house-made, hand-stretched dough. The dinner menu includes starters like Boom Boom Shrimp, Nashville Hot Mozzarella, Cheese Quesadillas, Caesar salad, or Queso Dip, before moving to entrées like award-winning Bone-in or Boneless Chicken Wings, Steakhouse Burgers, Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich, Fried Fish Sandwich, or any pizza or flatbread. Both menus finished with a classic milkshake in favorite flavors for a sweet ending. Novecento at CityPlace Doral is offering a three-course Miami Spice experience, including weekday lunch and weekend brunch priced at $35, and dinner available every day at $45 (and up to $60), each including an appetizer, entrée, and dessert. For brunch, foodies can start with a choice of Breakfast Empanada, Huevos al Pomodoro, or Avocado Toast, followed by Choripán, Brûlée French Toast, Eggs any style, or Milanga Napolitana (served tableside). They can also add bottomless cocktails, including Bloody Mary, Cizano Prosecco, Sangria, Mimosa for $20. For lunch, guests can enjoy dishes such as Provoleta & Pimientos, Beet Carpaccio or Ceasar Salad to start. Followed by the Salmon Burger, Chicken Milanga, Ribeye Jr., or Branzino (+ $10). For dinner, indulge in appetizers like Confit Tomato & Mushroom, Mejillones al Pomodoro, or Salmon Tiradito, then choose from entrees such as or more elevated options like Risotto de Camarón, Steak Frites, Gnocchi Tartufo, or a Surf + Turf T-Bone (+ $10). Finish on a sweet note with Flan or Panqueques 900 (dulce de leche crepes with vanilla ice cream). SuViche at CityPlace Doral is serving up Japanese Peruvian fusion for Miami Spice with three-course menus for $35 for weekday lunch and weekend brunch, and $45 for dinner. Brunch and lunch feature starters include Bang Bang Shrimp and the Shrimp Cocktail. Featured entrées are favorites, from Chicken Camote Waffles, Avocado Toast, and Pork Belly Chaufa to Lomo Saltado “a lo Pobre,” Pork Belly Chaufa and Causa Frita Benedict. Dinner adds sushi favorites, such as the SuViche Roll and Miami Roll, alongside salads and ceviche, the Saltado Steak, Miso Salmon, Pescado a lo Macho and more. Desserts include Suspiro Limeño or flan. Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants is offering a three-course lunch for $35, available Monday through Friday, featuring a choice of appetizer, entrée and dessert. Guests can enjoy elevated comfort dishes starting with Caprese Flatbread, Italian Sausage & Whipped Burrata Flatbread or the Chopped Wedge Salad, followed by Parmesan-Crusted Chicken, Pretzel-crusted Pork Chops, and Soy Ginger Salmon, paired with decadent sweets such as S’more Budino or Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée. For more information or to view the full Miami Spice menus, visit: https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/deals/spice-restaurant-months . When: Now through Tuesday, September 30th, 2025 Where: CityPlace Doral 8300 Northwest 36th Street Doral, Florida 33166 Parking at CityPlace Doral is available for an additional charge in the parking garage. Valet service is also available. How: For more information, please visit: https://cityplacedoral.com/events . Cost: $35 for lunch and brunch, and $45 for dinner. About CityPlace Doral: CityPlace Doral is an attractive leisure destination offering a collection of memorable dining, shopping, wellness and entertainment experiences. Featuring 250,000 square feet of retail space, CityPlace Doral is a master-planned, mixed-use development nestled in the dynamic employment center of Doral in the heart of Miami-Dade County. CityPlace Doral combines the vision of world-renowned architects, designers and artists creating the next crown jewel of prosperous dining, entertainment and upscale shopping in one of South Florida’s growing cities. CityPlace Doral includes more than 40 dining, shopping and entertainment destinations for all palettes and walks of life, and the property’s entertainment retail component is anchored by a roster of first-class tenants from all over the country. For more information, visit: www.cityplacedoral.com - Or call: (786) 693-1849. Join the conversation and follow CityPlace Doral on Instagram, Facebook and X at: @CityPlaceDoral. Previous Next

Sleepovers Available! May 27, 2021 Share The Humane Society of Broward County is Offering Doggie and Kitty Sleepovers Thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, but not quite sure if you are ready? Have another dog at home and want to see if they would enjoy the companionship of a playmate? The Humane Society of Broward County is offering doggie and kitty sleepovers for select pets; sorry, puppies and kittens are not available. According to Cherie Wachter at the adoption center, “sleepovers give potential adopters the opportunity to see how the pet they selected will blend in with their family. It also gives the pets a break from being in the shelter. We started doing sleepovers on a limited basis when the Pandemic started last March and have had great success with it. More than two dozen pets were adopted as a result, including Marvel – a fabulously fun American bulldog mix who is deaf. His new family adores him.” Pets typically available for sleepovers are those that have been passed by for no apparent reason. Once in a home environment, they relax and just want to be part of the family. In order to take home one of the select sleepover pets, a $50 deposit is required and the dog must leave with a collar and a leash. Sleepovers can last for a maximum of two weeks, at which time you will either need to bring the pet back or finalize the adoption and pay any remaining fees. If you have thought about adopting, or think a sleepover might be right for you, stop by the Humane Society of Broward County located at 2070 Griffin Road, the center opens daily at 11:00 a.m. Want to add something sweet to your life? If so, Butterscotch (ID 642672) is waiting to meet you. This two year old, 56 pound gal loves attention and she is good with kids ages 5 and up. Butterscotch knows a few basic commands, especially if a yummy treat is involved and she enjoys going for walks. A proper walking harness would be recommended, since she does get excited and pulls a bit. If you have a dog at home that is looking for a friend, she might be the perfect match. Beautiful Mu Mu (ID 641431) is eager to find a cat loving family to welcome her into their home. This petite, seven pound, tortoiseshell kitty is just a year old and already had a litter of kitties that had to be delivered by an emergency c-section. Her children have all been adopted and now, Mu Mu is patiently waiting for someone to adopt her, could you be her shining star? If you would like to see other furry friends up for adoption today, go to: Dogs: https://humanebroward.com/dogs/ Cats: https://humanebroward.com/cats/ Other Pets: https://humanebroward.com/other/ Preparing to Adopt: If you lease your home, check with your landlord before adopting to be sure you are allowed to have a pet and can afford all required pet deposits. Pets are sometimes returned because of lease restrictions and/or the landlord’s disapproval of the pet chosen. This can be an expensive lesson, since the adoption fees are non-refundable and being returned to the shelter can be a stressful experience for the animal, as well, other members of your household should be aware you want to add a pet and should meet the pet before you decide to adopt. Every member of the family needs to consider, does anyone have allergies, are other members of the household, including children, afraid of animals, are you expecting other members of the household to share in the care of the pet? These are all concerns when caring for a pet in your home. Consider the initial and on-going costs of a new pet. These costs include: adoption fees, food, grooming, obedience training, pet supplies, licensing, additional veterinary care such as diagnostic testing and preventative medication and these costs, can easily be $200-400 or more, within the first few weeks of adoption. The adoption representatives at the Humane Society of Broward County recommend that you do not immediately expose your existing pets to a new pet. Consider how you will manage an isolation period, be sure that all existing pets are up to date on vaccinations and other routine health care before bringing a new pet, home. Facilitating positive pet-to-pet introductions will require some management on your part too. Not all pets are instant friends and may require temporary or intermittent separation to ensure a smooth transition. Some pets are happy to share their home within a week or two, others may take a month or longer, to adjust. The adoption staff will be happy to review the steps to properly introduce your new pet to your resident pets. All dogs and cats making the transition to a new home, will need time to adjust to a new family and may require house training and behavior training to correct problem behaviors. If you aren’t prepared to invest your time to teach your new pet, appropriate behavior and help the animal adjust, you should not consider adopting a pet at this time. Positive rein-forcement-based training is recommended, for all newly adopted dogs and puppies. Before bringing your dog, cat, or critter home, make sure you have all of the supplies required to properly care for the newest member of your household. From toys and leashes to treats and litter pans, the adoption centers have a wide variety of merchandise available for purchase and the knowledgeable staff, can help you find the right products for your pet during the adoption interview process. Please make a lifetime commitment to your pet, remember that the animal you choose has already been abandoned or unwanted at least once in its life. Dogs and cats may live 12 to 15 years or more, your thoughtful consideration, preparation and commitment will help insure a lifelong placement. If you’re ready to add a furry friend to your family, visit the Humane Society of Broward County located at 2070 Griffin Road, a block west of I95. The shelter opens daily at 11:00 a.m. If you have any questions, call: (954) 989-3977 Extension: 6. To see who needs a home, visit: www.humanebroward.com . < Previous News Next News >

Introducing Chelsea Guo: A Rising Prodigy Bridging Music’s Finest Artistry December 8, 2023 Share In the heart of the musical world, there emerges a rare gem - Chelsea Guo - a prodigious talent whose virtuosity knows no bounds. A name that resonates with the symphony of excellence, she seamlessly embodies the duality of mastery in both piano and vocals, leaving audiences enchanted and critics astounded. "Chelsea Guo is a rare and impressive young artist in that her prodigious and affecting gifts are reflected equally in her captivating performances both as a pianist and singer," remarked the renowned critic Edna Landau, encapsulating the essence of Guo’s exceptional prowess. At the National Chopin Competition, Guo clinched a prestigious victory, solidifying her place among the elite. Her rendition of the 24 preludes and other piano masterpieces was nothing short of mesmerizing, drawing admiration and acclaim from aficionados and critics alike. Her command over the keys transcends mere technique; it’s an emotive journey that invites listeners into the depths of musical expression. However, her brilliance doesn’t confine itself to the piano keys alone. Guo’s versatility shines as she seamlessly transitions from the piano to her own accompaniment, lending her captivating voice to a repertoire of vocal treasures. The BBC Music Magazine lauded her as "a very fine pianist with a beguiling voice," a testament to her multifaceted talent. As the world eagerly anticipates her upcoming performance on January 7th, 2024, at the prestigious Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, Chelsea Guo aficionados and music enthusiasts alike are poised to witness a spectacle that transcends mere entertainment. Seats for this extraordinary event start at $45.00, offering an opportunity to immerse oneself in the genius of a rising star. For Guo, music is not a mere performance; it's an intimate conversation, a storytelling medium that transcends words. Her magnetic stage presence coupled with her technical brilliance creates an atmosphere that lingers long after the final note fades into silence. Each keystroke and lyrical intonation is a brushstroke on the canvas of emotions, painting a tapestry that captivates the soul. Beyond her undeniable talent, Chelsea Guo embodies a dedication to her craft that belies her age. Her relentless pursuit of musical excellence, coupled with an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression, sets her apart as a luminary in the making. While the spotlight shines brightly upon her, Guo remains grounded, finding solace and inspiration in the melodies of the great masters and the wisdom of her mentors. Her humility is as striking as her talent, fostering a genuine connection with her audience that transcends the concert hall’s confines. In an era where talent abounds, Chelsea Guo emerges as a beacon of artistry, merging the classical with the contemporary, and redefining the boundaries of musical expression. Her performances are not just displays of technical brilliance; they are immersive experiences that resonate within the hearts of her listeners, creating an indelible mark on the musical landscape. As the sun sets on January 7th, 2024, the stage at Aventura Arts & Cultural Center will come alive with the magic of Chelsea Guo - a maestro in the making, a luminary destined to leave an indelible imprint on the world of music. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the convergence of extraordinary talent and unparalleled passion—book your seats and embark on a musical odyssey unlike any other. 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 >

Corsair Kitchen & Bar: Chef Bill Gideon Unveils New Creations Fri Jun 09 2023 16:03:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

What's Extra Help? A Medicare Program To Help People With Limited Income And Resources September 19, 2024 Share "Extra Help" is a Medicare Program to help people with limited income and resources pay Medicare Drug Coverage (Part D) Premiums, Deductibles, Coinsurance, and other costs. Some people qualify for Extra Help automatically, and other people have to apply. Who gets Extra Help automatically? You'll get Extra Help automatically if you get: • Full Medicaid Coverage • Help from your state paying your Part B Premiums (from a Medicare Savings Program) • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits from Social Security You'll get a letter about your Extra Help. It tells you things like how much you'll pay, and your new Medicare Drug Plan, if you don't have one already. The Medicare Prescription Drug Program gives you a choice of Prescription Plans that offer various types of coverage. You may be able to get Extra Help to pay for the Monthly Premiums, Annual Deductibles, and co-payments related to the Medicare Prescription Drug Program. However, you must be enrolled in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan to get this Extra Help. You should complete the application for Extra Help on the Internet if: • You have Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and/or Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance); and • You live in one of the 50 States or the District of Columbia; and • Your combined savings, investments, and real estate are not worth more than $34,360, if you are married and living with your spouse, or $17,220 if you are not currently married or not living with your spouse. (Do NOT count your home, vehicles, personal possessions, Life Insurance, burial plots, irrevocable burial contracts or back payments from Social Security or SSI.) If you have more than those amounts, you may not qualify for the Extra Help. However, you can still enroll in an approved Medicare Prescription Drug Plan for coverage. EXCEPTION: Even if you meet these conditions, DO NOT complete this application if you have Medicare and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicare and Medicaid because you automatically will get the Extra Help. How Can You Get Extra Help? To get Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs, you must complete and submit the application. Medicare will review your application and send you a letter to let you know if you qualify for Extra Help. If you need help completing this application, call Social Security Toll-Free at: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You also may be able to get help from your State with other Medicare costs under the Medicare Savings Programs. By completing this form, you will start your application process for a Medicare Savings Program. We will send information to your State who will contact you to help you apply for a Medicare Savings Program unless you tell us not to when you complete this application. If you need information about Medicare Savings Programs, Medicare Prescription Drug Plans or how to enroll in a plan, call: 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048). Or visit: https://www.medicare.gov/ - You also can request information about how to contact your State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP). The SHIP offers help with your Medicare questions. To apply, you must live in one of the 50 States or the District of Columbia. If you don’t automatically get Extra Help, you can apply for it at: https://secure.ssa.gov/i1020/start < Previous News Next News >

Discover the Arts Day: Gasper Arts Center and WMODA Join Forces In Dania Beach on Saturday, May 14th, 2022 Thu May 05 2022 04:06:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Flipping Through History: The Broward County Library Helps Us Learn From Our Past Thu Dec 30 2021 05:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

My Son The Waiter - A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous South Florida Sun Times Dec 3, 2025 Brad Zimmerman’s Hit New York Comedy My Son The Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy Has Played To Full Houses Across The United States. In Celebration Of His 10th Year On The Road, Zimmerman Has Created A Brand-New Show – Once Again Detailing His Search For Success In Show Business. My Son The Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous Is Another Look At The Comedian And Raconteur’s Long Journey To Follow His Dream And ‘The Parents Who Suffered Through It.” Zimmerman Will Bring His Show To The Lake Worth Playhouse For A Limited Engagement In December. The Show Will Run For Two Days Only - On Saturday, December 6th & Sunday, December 7th At The Popular Lake Worth Venue. Zimmerman has been working on the script for My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous for a number of years and has performed it in a few small venues all over the country. This engagement at the Playhouse is the final stop on the show’s first major cross-country tour which included the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia and Landmark on Main Street in Long Island, New York. Every mother dreams her children will grow up to be happy, healthy, and successful. Every Jewish mother secretly – and often not so secretly – adds specifics to her wish: A doctor, a lawyer, a dentist, or these days, a Silicon Valley tycoon would make her very happy. Brad Zimmerman’s mother has finally adapted to her ‘actor-waiter’ son’s career choice and financial situation: “If all goes well, I think Brad is going to buy a bookcase,” she boasts to her friends. My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous is the continuation of the story of Zimmerman’s struggle to fulfill his dream and ‘make it’ as a comedic actor in New York. One-part standup, one-part theatrical, and all parts uproarious, his first show My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy spent 2 years at Off-Broadway’s Stage 72 (Triad Theatre) in New York and garnered rave reviews as it toured through Philadelphia, Boston, Atlanta, Toronto, San Diego, Thousand Oaks, California, Huntington Beach, California, Palm Beach, Florida, the Northshore PAC in Skokie, Illinois, The Gordon Center For Performing Arts in Maryland, the George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick, New Jersey and dozens of other cities across the United States. Brad Zimmerman has paid his dues. He spent 29 years “temporarily” waiting tables in New York, all the while chasing a career in acting and comedy. He tells of his pursuit, along with stories about his childhood, family and misbegotten love life with warmth, wit, self-deprecating humor, and wicked charm, and combines his years of training as an actor with his innate comedic talent. Zimmerman also examines the trials and tribulations of waiting on tables – particularly for someone not exactly invested in that career and with little tolerance for persnickety diners: “I don’t want 60 questions, get to the point!” he said he would tell restaurant patrons when he sat down for a recent interview for The New York Times. He joked that if diners prefaced their orders by saying they were in a hurry he would say “So go!” He says he did enjoy some of the bantering he did with diners and often tried out material on them, however there were also ‘the bossy customers who would snap their fingers to get his attention… and the health-food obsessives who elaborately customized their orders and button-holed him over ingredients.’ As he said in My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy, he was convinced his epitaph would read “I’ll be right with you.” His perseverance and hard work eventually did pay off and Zimmerman went on to act - he had a small part in “The Sopranos” playing Johnny Sack’s lawyer - and to become the opening act for a number of well-known entertainers, including George Carlin, Brad Garrett, Dennis Miller, Julio Iglesias and Joan Rivers who said “I’ve had three great opening acts in my lifetime: Billy Crystal, Garry Shandling and Brad Zimmerman.” Tickets are on sale now and are available online at: http://mysonthewaiter.com - Or: https://lakeworthplayhouse.csstix.com/event-details.php?e=2261 - Or by phone at: 1 (561) 586-6410. For group rates, 12+ call: 1 (888) 264-1788. Tickets prices range from $45 - $65. For more information about My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy & STILL Not Famous please visit: https://mysonthewaiter.com . To speak with Brad Zimmerman, or to arrange to attend a performance, please contact Carol Kassie at: (561) 445-9244. Or email: Carol@CarolKassie.com . Previous Next

Sip, Savor, And Support A Healthier Future - Greater Fort Lauderdale’s Longest-Running Charitable Wine And Food Festival Is This Month By Merilee Kern, MBA Apr 23, 2026 “Cheers To 30 Years” Is More Than A Celebratory Tagline For The Las Olas Wine And Food Festival. It Is A Reflection Of Three Decades Of Culinary Excellence, Community Connection, And Philanthropic Impact That Continues To Define One Of South Florida’s Most Anticipated Annual Events. As The Festival Returns On Friday, April 24th, 2026, Las Olas Boulevard Will Once Again Transform Into What Organizers Describe As A “Culinary Playground,” Spanning Southeast 6th Avenue Through Southeast 11th Avenue And Delivering A Fully Immersive Tasting Experience From 7:30 To 10:30 p.m., With VIP Access Beginning At 5:30 p.m. Presented by the American Lung Association, the event has become “Greater Fort Lauderdale’s longest-running charitable wine and food festival,” bringing together food, wine, culture, and purpose in a single, high-energy evening. For 30 years, the community has gathered to “sip, savor, and support a healthier future,” with 100 percent of proceeds benefiting lung health programs, advocacy, and research. Below are ten expansive reasons why this year’s milestone celebration stands out as a must-attend experience. 1. A Pearl Anniversary Celebration Rooted In Legacy The 30th Anniversary marks what organizers call “three decades of unforgettable moments in support of a meaningful cause.” This milestone is not simply commemorative. It is experiential. The event leans into its origins with a 1990's-themed celebration that “transports guests back to 1996,” blending nostalgia with a modern, elevated execution that reflects how the festival has evolved. 2. A Boulevard Transformed Into A Culinary Playground For one extraordinary night, Las Olas Boulevard becomes a fully curated event space. Guests move through multiple tasting pavilions, lounges, and activations that create a seamless flow of experiences. The design allows for “all the sips, samples, mixing, and mingling one can do,” reinforcing the festival’s reputation for accessibility and abundance. 3. More Than 40 Restaurants Delivering Signature And New Creations The culinary backbone of the event features “more than 40 premier restaurants from the Greater Fort Lauderdale area hosting pop-up stations along the boulevard.” This lineup blends established favorites and emerging names, including Timpano, Casa Sensei, Ocean Prime, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Sixty Vines, American Social, RA Sushi, Mastro’s Ocean Club, La Mexicana Taco Bar, Wilder, and The Federal. Each brings a distinct flavor profile, ensuring that no two bites feel the same. 4. A Global Wine And Spirits Portfolio Featuring 200+ Selections Wine lovers are invited to “sip their way through exclusive pours, wines from around the world, and limited release bottles,” with more than 200 domestic and international wines and spirits featured across the festival. Curated by Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, the offerings include premium labels and widely recognized brands, creating a tasting experience that spans regions, styles, and price points. 5. The Premium Wine Garden Elevates The Experience The Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits Premium Wine Garden, hosted by Ombelle Fort Lauderdale, returns as a focal point for elevated tasting. Guests enjoy “exclusive pours” alongside curated bites from Shooters Waterfront, creating a refined environment for deeper exploration of premium wines. 6. VIP Access That Begins Before The Festival Opens The Grand Cru VIP ticket transforms the evening into a layered, multi-phase experience. It begins with a “VIP Kick-Off Pre-Party at the Riverside Hotel from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.,” featuring premium bites, cocktails, and a waterfront setting presented by Florida Power and Light and Amerant Bank. VIP guests also receive early entry to the festival, gaining access to tasting pavilions 30 minutes before general admission. 7. Exclusive VIP Wine Garden Access And Premium Tastings From 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., VIP guests enjoy private access to the Premium Wine Garden, where they can “sip, sample, and indulge in premium wines before anyone else.” Past participating wineries have included Caymus Vineyards, Terlato Wine Group, Chateau Ste. Michelle, and Freixenet Mionetto, reinforcing the elevated nature of this experience. 8. A 90s-Themed VIP Lounge That Brings The Energy New for 2026, the VIP experience introduces a “throwback-themed oasis celebrating the festival’s roots in 1996,” complete with specialty cocktails such as Manhattans, Cosmos, and Appletinis, along with a nostalgic soundtrack designed to keep “the energy high and the dance floor moving.” The lounge also offers dedicated seating, creating a balance between high-energy entertainment and relaxed social space. 9. Beverage Diversity Beyond Wine In addition to wine, the festival showcases a wide range of spirits and beer offerings. Guests can explore selections including Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Aperol, Espolon Tequila, Jim Beam, and Jameson Irish Whiskey, along with craft beer participants such as Stella Artois, Kona, Goose Island, and Wicked Weed. Additional spirit brands such as Aspen Vodka, Flecha Azul Tequila, Copalli Rum, and WhistlePig Whiskey further expand the tasting experience. 10. A Purpose-Driven Event With Community Impact At its core, the festival remains grounded in its mission. “100% of proceeds benefit the lifesaving mission of the American Lung Association,” supporting efforts to improve lung health, advance research, and advocate for clean air. Organizers underscore the importance of this mission with a simple reminder that resonates throughout the event. “If you can’t breathe, nothing else matters.” Beyond the tastings, the Las Olas Wine and Food Festival reflects a broader narrative of community, culture, and connection. It is a place where local businesses, culinary talent, and global beverage brands converge in a setting that feels both celebratory and purposeful. From its early beginnings in 1996 to its current status as a premier culinary event, the festival has consistently evolved while maintaining its core identity. This year’s 30th Anniversary edition captures that evolution in full, delivering an experience that is as dynamic as it is meaningful. For attendees, the takeaway is clear. This is not simply a night of food and wine. It is a curated journey through flavor, culture, and community impact, set against one of South Florida’s most iconic backdrops. And for those who return year after year, it is also a reminder of why this event continues to matter. Entrepreneur Leadership Network Member Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. As Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee is a prolific business, lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker. She keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at: www.TheLuxeList.com / Instagram: www.Instagram.com/MerileeKern / X: http://www.X.com/MerileeKern / Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial / LinkedIn" www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern . *Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way. All images Courtesy of Hyatt Previous Next