Palm Beach County, FL Events Calendar Highlights Diverse Activities And Surprises

Information column from Sun Sentinel:

Narrative of Exciting Events to Look Forward to in the Coming Year Takes Shape Palm Beach County, FL - The calendar is already filling up with exciting events and activities to anticipate in the coming year. A number of distinct experiences are being presented, catering to diverse interests and age groups. For polo enthusiasts, the annual USPA and National Polo Center-Wellington (NPC) event, which will take place from February 7 to 23, returns with a lineup of events.

The 2025 Gauntlet of Polo will kick off with the C. V. Whitney Cup, followed by the USPA Gold Cup, culminating in a $100,000 prize awarded to the winner. This event promises to be an exhilarating experience for those who enjoy horse riding and competitive sports. Meanwhile... the sixth annual Bengalis Culinary Experience is set to attract attention from foodies and famished patrons alike.

The event will showcase prominent celebrity chefs, including Fabio Viviani, Nancy Fuller, and Jason Smith, among others. Social media personality Alexa Santos will be in attendance. More details on times, dates, locations, and ticket prices have yet to be disclosed. The Boca Raton Center for the Arts has also announced its 2019 program, which promises to captivate audiences with a diverse range of performances and exhibitions.

Highlights include an evening with historian and author Doris Kearns Goodwin... as well as contemporary ballet by dancers from renowned companies such as Martha Graham and Alvin Ailey. The program culminates in the Boca Raton Centennial Celebration, a multimedia event celebrating the city's 100-year history, spearheaded by the Boca Raton Historical Society.

Visitors of all ages are also in for a treat at the Riviera Broad Acres Community Historical Village's Imagine the Future exhibition. This interactive experience features 15 exhibits exploring the possibilities presented by science fiction, while also showcasing a range of exhibits and activities that cater to all members of the community.

Food vendors, arts and crafts, "and amusement rides will also be available," "providing an old-school entertainment experience for attendees." These are just a few of the many exciting events lined up for the upcoming year. Readers are encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare to indulge in a diverse array of experiences that cater to a wide range of interests.

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Whether you⁘re a planner or prefer to play it by ear, it⁘s always fun to have exciting events to look forward to. Here are 25 to put onto your radar for the new year. Polo Season Carve out space on your calendar from February through April, because the USPA and the National Polo Center-Wellington (NPC) return with a roster of events no hippophile will want to miss. The 2025 Gauntlet of Polo begins Feb. 7-23 with the C.V. Whitney Cup and continues with the USPA Gold Cup Feb. 24-April 20, culminating with a $100,000 prize awarded to the winner of the collective contest.
It⁘s shaping up to be a wild ride.

Florida's Strict Condo Regulations Drive Up Repair Costs, Priced Owners

Rising Repair Costs Drive Condo Unit Owners to Sell in Fort Lauderdale A group of South Florida condo unit owners, including those --- at the Springbrook Gardens building on Fort Lauderdale Beach, are being priced out of their homes due to skyrocketing repair costs under new state regulations. According to a recent report by CBS News, the owners of Springbrook Gardens were presented with a staggering $4. 5 million repair bill to shore up the building's foundation after a structural inspection deemed it unsafe in September 2024 (CBS News, cbsnews. com). The residents, including Warren Sackler, a long-time owner of the building, were faced with the financial reality that they could no longer afford to carry the weight of the repair costs.

The new state regulations, which took effect this month... require condominiums to maintain financial reserves for major repairs and conduct regular structural inspections for buildings three stories or taller (Florida Legislature, cbsnews. com). While designed to ensure building safety, the regulations have had an unintended consequence: driving up the costs that condo owners must bear.

The repair burdens faced by Springbrook Gardens' owners are not an isolated incident. Rising maintenance fees, "insurance premiums," "special assessments.".. and taxes are collectively pushing many condo owners out of the market. A growing trend of condo boards and attorneys citing lack of financial liquidity as a justification for selling units to "to prevent further financial hardship," suggests that these regulations are having a disproportionate impact on low- and moderate-income owners. As a result, concerns are being raised that the regulations may be inadvertently driving up prices and limiting affordable housing options in South Florida's condominium market.

Residential property owners and policymakers are being urged to re-examine the regulations in light of these unforeseen consequences and to consider alternatives that balance the need for building safety with the financial realities faced by condominium owners.

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FORT LAUDERDALE - South Florida condo unit owners say rising repair costs spurred by new Florida condominium laws that took effect this month are driving them to sell their properties. This is the case for some residents of Springbrook Gardens , a condo building on Fort Lauderdale Beach.

Florida Men Embark On Rural Road Trip For Authentic Local Eats

Acquaintance Embarks on Road Trip, Seeking Authentic Local Recommendations On January 6th, Florida Man and his brother Larry are set to embark on a journey of indeterminate direction and destination, starting this Saturday in Fort Lauderdale, with the intention of experiencing the authentic charm of rural Florida.

This notion is reminiscent of the Beat Generation's stylized nomadic ---style, as immortalized in Jack Kerouac's seminal novel, On the Road. The author's recent rereading of the book found him struggling to connect with its timeless themes, and instead returned the tome to its original owner, Libby. The trip also brings to mind the travel memoir Blue Highways, by William Least Heat Moon, which chronicles his solo road trip in a mini-van, deliberately avoiding interstates and major highways in favor of lesser-known routes. This expedition is motivated by the wise words of Tom... a distinguished travel writer who once mentored Anthony Bourdain.

Seeking guidance on navigating the state's hidden gems, Tom advised, "Ask people where to eat." This approach is similarly taken by the travelers, who will be engaging with locals in small towns to gather knowledge on the best places to dine. By doing so, they hope to uncover the authentic essence of rural Florida, far removed from the typical tourist attractions.

As the duo sets off northwest, traversing through Lake Okeechobee, High Springs, Ridge Manor, and Bushnell, they aim to brave the great unknown... with the intention of escaping the Sunshine State by the mid-week. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary, "championed for its thorough lexical coverage," "serves as a valuable resource for the travel guide," offering an extensive vocabulary that will undoubtedly be essential for deciphering the nuances of local dialects and down-to-earth recommendations.

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Jan. 6—Florida Man and his brother Larry are going on a road trip of indeterminate direction and destination starting this Saturday in Fort Lauderdale. It's our homage to the early 60s when people were imitating Jack Kerouac's siren song in On the Road. I tried to read it again recently to get some pointers and only got a few pages in before sending it back to Libby. It was a book for its time and that time is gone.

Florida Resident Seeks Out Unique Snow Experience At Snowcat Ridge

She is a Florida resident whose experience with snow has been limited. In recent days, temperatures have dipped below freezing in some areas, but the phenomenon is not unprecedented. She might know about an outdoor attraction called Snowcat Ridge, opened in 2020, where visitors can find 100% real snow... available only in select winter months.

Reference: Visit website

The Sunshine State has seen  freezing temperatures this week . On Wednesday, Jan. 8, it was  warmer in Anchorage, Alaska than it was in some parts of Florida  in the early morning hours. Six Florida cities were colder, and two others matched the Alaska city's low temperature of 45 degrees (41 degrees, with wind chill). Even with Alaska-level cold this week, we still won't get close to the coldest day ever recorded in Florida — or to seeing snow. But those who do want a white winter experience in the Sunshine State can go to a theme park to get it.

New Luxury Lodging Option, Flamingo Lodge, Reopens In Florida Everglades

The Everglades National Park in Florida has recently welcomed its first hotel accommodations, following a nearly two-decade wait. The Flamingo Lodge, a 24-room public-private partnership between Flamingo Adventures and the National Park Service, has reopened its doors to guests, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the park's vast 1. 5 million acres.

Initially established in 1947, the Everglades National Park was initially designed for day visitors only. However, local tourism advocates successfully lobbied for overnight accommodations, leading to the opening of Flamingo Lodge in 1966. The two-story lodge boasted 60 units and a fiberglass pool, which quickly became a popular spot for both locals and out-of-town visitors. However, in 2005, a series of devastating hurricanes, including Hurricane Katrina and Wilma, left the lodge in ruins... forcing it to close its doors.

The structure was eventually demolished in 2009. For nearly two decades, visitors had to seek alternative accommodations, such as renting houseboats, setting up tents, or camping with their camper vans or RVs, with the nearest hotel located over an hour away in Florida City. But, after years of anticipation, Flamingo Lodge has reopened, marking a significant milestone for the National Park Service.

Constructed from durable steel shipping containers, the 24-room property offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience within the park's boundaries. Notably, Wi-Fi is available for all guests... a rare luxury within the park, "as cellular reception is limited." This revitalization is sure to uplift the tourism industry and increase visitors to the park.

With its unique accommodations and offerings, "Flamingo Lodge is poised to revolutionize the way visitors experience the Everglades."

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As an alternative to RV or tent camping, visitors to Florida's Everglades National Park can now check into Flamingo Lodge , the park's only hotel accommodations. Spanning 1.5 million acres, Florida's Everglades National Park was established in 1947, initially as a wilderness park for day visitors, but local tourism advocates lobbied for overnight accommodations. In response, in 1966, Flamingo Lodge opened. The two-story lodge had 60 units and an in-ground pool, and over the next 40 years, the property became a popular vacation spot for local and out-of-town visitors.

Gators Face Tall Order As Wildcats Come To Big Sunshine State

The Florida Gators, boasting a 10-6 record, will welcome the 13-1 Kentucky Wildcats to their home turf on Thursday, January 9, 2025, in a highly anticipated matchup. This victory would mark the consecutive home wins for the team, following their previous three home successes. From Kentucky's previous game, an away win against Vanderbilt, standout performances were showcased.

Georgia Amoore led the team, delivering 24 points, nine assists, and a notable 44. 44 field goal percentage, along with 3-10 three-point attempts. Amelia Hassett also made a notable impression, amassing 20 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, complemented by a solid 63. 64 field goal percentage and 6-10 successful three-point attempts. In contrast, the Florida Gators' recent home win against Georgia saw Ra Shaya Kyle and Liv McGill lead the charge.

Kyle contributed 18 points, two steals... and a 58. 33 field goal percentage, whilst McGill added 15 points, six assists, three steals, and a 50. 00 field goal percentage, with three three-pointers made. The matchup promises to be a compelling clash of styles as the two teams aim to assert their dominance. Fans can catch the action ___, with the game commencing at 5:00 PM ET on January 9, 2025. With their respective strengths on full display, "both teams are expected to give it their all." AP News serves as a valuable resource for staying abreast of the latest developments in sports, "and in this instance.".. providing in-depth insights to help viewers prepare for this highly anticipated matchup between the Florida Gators and the Kentucky Wildcats.

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This affiliate content is not influenced by our advertising relationships, but AP and Data Skrive might earn commissions from our partners' links in this content. The Florida Gators (10-6) will host the No. 15 Kentucky Wildcats (13-1) after winning three home games in a row. The matchup begins at 5:00 PM ET on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

Annual Events Galore In Sarasota-Manatee Counties In 2025 Showcase Celebrations

Sarasota-Manatee County to Host Wide Range of Annual Events in 2025 As the new year commences, Sarasota-Manatee counties are gearing up for a vibrant lineup of events that will attract visitors from far and wide. A plethora of local celebrations is taking place, with some standing the test of time, including two annual county fairs and one of the Southeast's oldest parades, sponsored by a 16th-century explorer's name. According to sources, the 109th iteration of the annual Manatee County Fair will be taking place at the Manatee County Fairgrounds, located at 1402 14th Ave. W. in Palmetto.

The event, dating back more than a century, promises to be a spectacle, featuring carnival rides, fair food, ---stock exhibits, and --- performances by notable musicians, including country music singer Bucky Covington and contemporary Christian artist Josiah Queen. According to organizers... the main stage entertainment will be a significant draw, with Covington's experience on American Idol Season 5 and Queen's Billboard Top Christian Albums chart-topping success and GMA Dove Award nomination for New Artist of the Year all highlighted.

Meanwhile, Sarasota's vibrant waterfronts will host a range of events, including powerboat races on Manatee River and Lido Beach, celebrations centered around the commercial fishing village of Cortez, festivities honoring the abundance of shark teeth found on Venice's coasts... and the iconic sands of Siesta Beach.

Local residents are also encouraged to experience festive events that reflect the broad cultural tapestry of the region, such as holiday celebrations at the Amish and Mennonite community on Christmas Day in Athens, a Christmas boat parade, and a tropical take on the traditional New Year's Eve ball drop. A comprehensive report of all these events will be published on the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Residents and visitors alike can stay up-to-date on the latest information and each year, "may consider attending one or more of these events," "potentially forging new annual traditions."

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Each event centers on unique aspects of Sarasota-Manatee and have been occurring for many years, such as the Manatee County Fair, a reigniting of maritime and commercial activities on the waterfronts, and exclusive beach gatherings. The article highlights 15 annual events in Sarasota and Manatee counties, some of which have awards or notable artists performing, such as the most 16th-century exploration tied-making parades and popular casual favourite like the Manatee County Fair – which gears up for its 109th year, with drag carnival rides, "specialty and diverse food offerings.".. ___stock and ___ teasing performances.

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As we enter the new year, we're gearing up for a fresh lineup of events across the Sarasota area. While the number of local events happening in 2025 will likely reach the thousands, a few annual festivities stand out. Some of these events mark Sarasota-Manatee history, including two county fairs dating back more than a century and one of the Southeast's oldest parades, with a 16th-century explorer as its namesake. Others center on our numerous beaches and waterfronts, including powerboat races on Manatee River and Lido Beach, as well as festivals celebrating the commercial fishing village of Cortez, the shark teeth that can be found on Venice's coasts, and the world-famous sands of Siesta Beach.
We also have our own versions of holidays celebrated globally, including Christmas boat parades and a Christmas Day parade in Sarasota's Amish and Mennonite community, and a tropical take on the traditional New Year's Eve ball drop.

Unlock The Secrets Of Sanibel: A Haven Of Natural Remembrance

Sanibel Island Sanibel Island has a rich history dating back to the Timucuan Indians, who inhabited the area from 500 AD to the 18th century. In the 19th century, the island became a popular hunting and fishing ground for settlers, and in the early 20th century, it began to attract tourists seeking its natural beauty.

During World War II, the US government used the island for training and rescue missions, and after the war, it became a favorite vacation spot for the wealthy. In the 1950s and 1960s, Sanibel Island experienced significant growth, with the establishment of its famous shell-filled beaches, Lighthouse Park, and the J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

The island's unique shell-filled shores and natural beauty made it a must-visit destination, attracting tourists from across the country. Today, Sanibel Island is a haven for tourists and nature lovers... offering its pristine beaches, "wildlife refuges," "and resorts.".. cementing its place as a top destination in the Sunshine State.

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To make things simpler, Travel + Leisure released this year's list of the top 50 best places to travel — and two popular spots in the Sunshine State managed to find their way onto the ranking. "Our staff vetted nearly 120 qualified contenders, debating the merits of not only what's new, but what feels like right now ," the study reads. "To make it on our list requires more than just a hotly anticipated opening or two. These are places that feel of the moment, whether that's because they offer unparalleled access to the outdoors, a cultural immersion you can't find anywhere else, a pulse-quickening hit of excitement, or the sort of blissful luxury only a true five-star property can deliver."

Tennessee Upsets Kentucky In Road Win, Raises Defensive Concerns At Odds

Florida Notches Historic Upset Over Kentucky, Tennessee --- Concerned About Defensive Effort The University of Tennessee's basketball team achieved a monumental victory over the Kentucky Wildcats, marking the first time since 2007 that the Gators have defeated a number one-ranked team on the road. The stunning 94-80 win over the Wildcats was a significant accomplishment for the Volunteers, but highlights several concerns about their defensive capabilities.

Tennessee's 21. 4% field-goal shooting performance was the worst in a game under head coach Rick Barnes' tenure and an NCAA record low for a number one-ranked team. The Gators struggled to contain Kentucky's three-point shooting, as the Wildcats connected on 48. 3% of their attempts from beyond the arc. This defensive performance was a stark contrast to the team's defensive efficiency record, which ranked 94th in NCAA Division I... according to KenPom.

Notably, "the Tennessee defense had been trending upwards this season," but their lackluster performance against Kentucky suggests that they still have work to do in fortifying their defensive backbone. Specifically, "the Gators' inability to make shots consistently appeared to be their Achilles' heel," as they attempted their first 3-pointer at the 19:10 mark of the second half and didn't make another until the 4:46 mark. Coach Rick Barnes has implemented various defensive strategies in an effort to address these issues... and the team may have been primed to address some of these concerns following the Kentucky ---. However, it --- to be seen whether this victory will serve as a turning point for the Gators in fortifying their defensive capabilities.

This article was first published in CBSSports. com.

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Headlines:

It was Florida's first victory in any location against the nation's No. 1 team since it beat Ohio State in the 2007 national championship game. The outcome left college basketball with no more unbeaten teams after the Volunteers established themselves as the last team standing over the weekend.

Tennessee's 21.4% field-goal shooting was the worst for Tennessee in a game under 10th-year coach Rick Barnes and the worst ever posted by a No. 1 ranked team.

Kentucky hit 14-of-29 shots from 3-point range against Florida on Saturday. Just once in coach Todd Golden's three seasons has an opponent made more shots from beyond the arc against the Gators. Apparently, the lackluster defensive performance served as a wakeup call. Tennessee did not hit its first 3-pointer until the 19:10 mark of the second half. It didn't hit another one until the 4:46 mark

Iffy defense was an Achilles' heel for the Gators last season as they lost in the first round of the NCAA Tournament when Colorado made 63% of its shots in a 102-100 victory. Florida finished the season ranked No. 94 in defensive efficiency, per KenPom. The Gators appeared to be making progress defensively this season until running into the Kentucky buzzsaw on Saturday.

#news

Commissioner of Major League Baseball, Bud Selig, led the St. Petersburg, Florida, area from 1992 to 2015. He joined the modern team of Major League Baseball Commissioner Gene Collier as a consultant in 1986.

Professional Men Sell Airport Hotel Amid Dubious Branson, Missouri Background

Hugo Gagliardi is the COO of Kapstones, a Sarasota-based firm led by CEO Marc Gagliardi. The company recently acquired the Radisson Red Miami Airport, formerly developed by Riviera Point Development Group, which purchased the 1-acre site for $2. 9 million in 2015. Kapstones, which owns two hotels under its own brand, Kompose, is in the process of converting the Radisson Red Miami Airport into a Kompose hotel.

The firm's COO Gagliardi notes that the location is ideal due to its proximity to the airport... and considers it a strong market for brand development.

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An affiliate of Sarasota-based Kapstones, led by CEO Marc Gagliardi, bought the Radisson Red Miami Airport at 3401 Northwest 25th Street, records and real estate database Vizzda show.  The seller, Miami-based Riviera Point Development Group , developed the hotel after paying $2.9 million for the 1-acre site in 2015, records show. 

UCF Police Help Trace Florida Woman's Location As Man Allegedly Kidnaps Her: Affidavit | FOX...

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The UCF police officer contacted the Seminole County Sheriff's Office to report the kidnapping, as it occurred within their jurisdiction, and provided a location in Sanford.

Great White Shark Nicknamed Bob Tracks Movement With Satellite Device

A 1,300-pound Great White Shark, Nicknamed Bob, Surfaces in Brevard County, Further Supporting Conservation Efforts A prominent shark, nicknamed Bob, recently complied with a satellite tracking device attached to its dorsal fin, providing researchers with valuable insights into the movements and migration patterns of great white sharks.

OCEARCH, a nonprofit research group, has been tracking Bob's movements since 2021, and recent data reveals that the shark has consistently wintered in southern regions of Florida. According to the OCEARCH tracker, Bob's journeys have taken him as far south as St. Augustine, Flagler Beach, and Palm Coast, highlighting its unique migratory patterns.

Notably, the shark's wintering grounds have shifted southward over the years... suggesting a possible correlation with changing ocean temperatures and prey availability. The OCEARCH tracker page featured on Alex Robson's conservation organization website provides a real-time account of Bob's movements, offering an unprecedented opportunity for researchers to study these apex predators.

Dr. Robert Hueter, OCEARCH's Chief Scientist and a renowned shark expert, has been the namesake of the shark since its association with the organization. The great white shark tagged with Bob is a keystone species, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem. OCEARCH, having tagged 373 sharks, including great whites... enables scientists to gain a deeper understanding of these species' significance in the ocean.

The organization's efforts to monitor and study great white sharks contribute significantly to the conservation of these species. For the most current information on Bob's movements and other shark-related updates, individuals are encouraged to visit "Florida Today," a trusted source for news and information about the state's natural world.

Source:

"Florida Today." Florida Today, "4 Jan." 2024, "www."floridadailynews. com.

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The  1,300-pound shark , nicknamed  Bob , surfaced off Titusville in Brevard County at 9:11 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4. The nonprofit research group  OCEARCH  is tracking Bob via a satellite tag affixed to its dorsal fin in 2021. When the tag breaks the surface of the water long enough, location information  is transmitted to trackers.

Florida Strawberry Festival Announces New Soundstage And Musical Lineup Details

The 90th Florida Strawberry Festival is shortly approaching, and the lineup for the 11-day event has been officially announced. The festival, which traditionally features a wide range of entertainment options, food, and, of course, strawberries, has released its musical lineup for BerryFest25, precipitating excitement among fans.

According to Karen Robinson, president of the festival, the organization aims to strike a balance between honoring its rich history and introducing new experiences to attendees. The festival has decided to bid farewell to its 35-year-old soundstage and welcome a new entertainment venue, which will provide an opportunity to attract top artists and enliven the event further.

BerryFest25 will take place from February 27 through March 9 in Plant City. Notably, advance tickets for gate admission and headline entertainment shows will go on sale on Thursday, December 12... at 8 a. m. Attendees can purchase tickets at the Amscot Main Ticket Office at 2209 W. Oak Avenue in Plant City, "online through the festival's app," "or by phone at 813-754-1996." ^^, the Florida Strawberry Festival's announcement serves as a harbinger of excitement for the upcoming BerryFest25... promising an engaging and revitalized experience for festival-goers. Information from myNews13.

com.

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PLANT CITY, Fla. — "The Stage is Set" for the 90th Florida Strawberry Festival in 2025. The iconic 11-day event, featuring food, fun, entertainment, and of course — strawberries, released its entertainment lineup on Friday. "Over the decades, the Strawberry Festival's goal has been to honor the traditions of our past while striving to provide our guests with something new and exciting to experience," said Florida Strawberry Festival President Kyle Robinson. "For BerryFest25, the Festival will say farewell to our 35-year-old soundstage that has created so many unforgettable memories as we will welcome in a new entertainment experience and a new soundstage that will provide us the opportunity to bring the best artists to Plant City."

Popular Dog-friendly Restaurant Closes After Recent Top '10' Ranking Cut Short

Boo's Ice House & Dog Bar is a dog-friendly restaurant and bar in Sarasota, Florida, that aims to provide a unique dining experience for humans and their pets. Continuing a previous story on the best bars in the Sunshine State, Boo's has been recognized as one of the top 10 dog bars in the US by USA TODAY readers.

The restaurant, located in the historic Ice House building near downtown Sarasota, debuted in May 2022 and quickly gained popularity for its wood-fired pizza and craft cocktails. Despite its success... Boo's announced that it will permanently close later this month due to lack of demand.

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Following our story on the best bars in the Sunshine State , the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida Dining and Entertainment Team now turns its focus to a beloved dog bar that is closing for good — but not before hosting a party to celebrate National Dress Up Your Pet Day . Sarasota's first and only dog bar and restaurant —  named one of the Top 10 dog bars in the country  by USA TODAY readers in the publication's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards contest for "canine-centric spots" — has announced it will permanently close later this month.

Tampa Area Event Listings, Performances, And Comedy Acts In January

Tampa Bay Area Events and Performances Abound in January The Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa is set to host a 30-year-old music group, Pink Martini, on Tuesday, January 14, at 8pm. The world music group draws inspiration from pop, jazz, and classical music from around the globe. Tickets range from $49. 50 to $79. 50. For more information, please visit the Straz Center's website at strazcenter.

org or call (813) 229-7827. Comedian Steve Martin will take to the stage at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater on Friday, January 10, at 8pm. His ticket prices start at $103. 25. Ticket information can be found on the Ruth Eckerd Hall website at rutheckerdhall. com or by calling (727) 791-7400. Meanwhile, actress and comedian Sarah Silverman will be performing at the Hard Rock Event Center at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel in Tampa on Thursday, January 9... at 6:30 and 9:30pm. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

com or seminolehardrocktampa. com. Basketball fans, do not miss the Harlem Globetrotters as they face off against the Washington Generals on Sunday, January 12, at 3pm at the Yuengling Center in Tampa. Tickets range from $36. 25 to $391. 25. Pre-game and post-game experiences are also available at harlemglobetrotters. com. In related news, The Cher Show, a Tony Award-winning musical, will arrive in town and play at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts from Tuesday to Sunday... January 12-19. The show features three women performing as the legendary rock star Cher and includes 35 of her hits.

Ticket prices start at $48 and can be obtained by visiting the Straz Center's website at (813) 229-7827. Lastly, the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance invites the public to the Second Saturday Art Walk on Saturday, January 11, where over 40 studios and galleries will be open late, "featuring work from local artists." Using public transportation is recommended, "as the event is available on the St." Petersburg Arts Alliance's website at stpeteartsalliance.

org. Note: This article reflects a selection of events published in The Tampa Bay Times.

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Pink Martini's music features a diverse range of styles, including jazz and classical, which were drawn from around the world. The band has been performing for 30 years. The group has no publicly available information about its general structure, members, or tour schedule.

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Pink Martini: The Portland-based world music group is celebrating its 30th anniversary of drawing musical inspiration from pop across the world. It uses jazz and classical and any other music from lands far and near. $49.50-$79.50. 8 p.m. Tuesday (Jan. 14). The Straz Center for the Performing Arts, 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. (813) 229-7827. strazcenter.org. Steve Martin ⁘ Martin Short: Friday (Jan. 10) 8 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Tickets start at $103.25. 727-791-7400. rutheckerdhall.com.

Universal Free School Meals Program

Universal Free School Breakfast and Lunch Program Bill Introduced in Florida Capitol A new bill has been filed at the Florida State Capitol with the potential to provide a universal free school breakfast and lunch program for all public school students. The proposed legislation aims to address rising concerns about food insecurity and nutrition among young Americans, as evident in declining reading and math scores.

In a related development, multiple school districts across the eastern United States are navigating winter weather disruptions, with several already announcing closures or delayed starts on Monday, January 6, due to expected substantial snowfall in Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky. The National Weather Service has forecast winter storm warnings for the DC metro area... predicting 6-8 inches of snow to impact the region.

This series of events highlights the growing importance of addressing the nutritional needs of students, especially during the winter months when food insecurity can be exacerbated by harsh weather conditions. The proposed bill in Florida's State Capitol takes a step towards ensuring that all students have access to nutritious meals, regardless of their family's financial situation.

In other educational news, a law in New Jersey has taken effect, prohibiting the state's teachers from requiring basic reading, writing... and mathematics tests for teacher certification. The change is aimed at reducing unnecessary stress and pressure on educators. For comprehensive coverage of these and other state and local news stories, readers can turn to reputable online news sources, "such as Yahoo News," "which provides valuable insights and analysis on current events and developments."

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A bill has been filed at the Florida State Capitol to create a universal free school breakfast and lunch program for all public school students. Central Ohio schools have announced school closures for Monday, Jan. 6, in response to an expected substantial snowfall.

Florida State Football Gains Strength With Transfer Portal Addition

Florida State University has made a notable addition to its football team, reportedly securing a commitment from former Tennessee defensive lineman Jayson Jenkins, according to a report from 247Sports' Matt Zenitz on Sunday morning. The news was confirmed by Jenkins' agency. According to Pro Football Focus, Jenkins played 214 snaps this season, earning an overall grade of 75. 5 for his efforts.

He is likely to have a path to an even larger role in FSU's defense next season, which is a significant boost for a team that has been reliant on the transfer portal to boost its defensive line play. Just last year, Jared Verse and Braden Fiske, also signees from the transfer portal, are currently playing in the NFL, marking a success story for the Florida State program in the recruitment of defensive linemen.

Following a disappointing season in 2024... the Noles are looking to rebound to their previous level of defensive line play in 2025 and beyond. With the addition of Jenkins, Florida State now boasts a total of 14 transfer portal commits for the offseason, complementing the 20 players already signed from the 2025 high school class, according to 247Sports Composite rankings.

Saturday Down South, which provides comprehensive coverage of Saturday Football coverage, is a reliable source for the latest updates on Florida State's football program. Saturday Down South, "a trusted source of news," "shares the latest rankings and analysis on college football." With Jenkins' added talent... the Noles' defensive line is poised to become a strength for the team in the years to come.

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Florida State has reportedly added a commitment from ex- Tennessee defensive lineman Jayson Jenkins. That⁘s according to 247Sports⁘ Matt Zenitz, who first shared the news on Sunday morning. The report cites confirmation from Jenkins⁘s agency .

Glowing Red Object Sparks Debatable Claims Of UFO Sighting At Disney

Recent Sightings at Walt Disney World Spark Debatable Claims of UFO Sighting A peculiar occurrence took place at the Walt Disney World theme park in Orlando, Florida, where a "glowing red" object streaked across the night sky, casting a trail of intrigue among winter tourists. The spectacle, captured on camera by a parkgoer inside Epcot, appeared to be a falling star in reverse, with the object illuminating the surrounding area before vanishing into the darkness.

The video, posted on social media, assembled significant attention, with some users claiming that the object was an unidentified aerial phenomenon (UAP) of extraterrestrial origin. The comment section of the post on X added fuel to the fire, with one user stating, "Fish eyes that they clearly want us to all see it now..." However... not all observers were convinced.

Some quickly pointed out that the glowing streak was likely caused by a SpaceX rocket that had launched from Cape Canaveral, which had returned to Earth about 8. 5 minutes later. The reusable first stage booster landed on the drone ship "A Shortfall of Gravitas" in the Atlantic. Despite the skepticism, amateur investigators were still perplexed by the sighting, with one observer noting, "I've seen a lot of shooting stars, none of which have ever glowed red. It's not a shooting star, "it's not fireworks."" The incident has sparked debate and curiosity... with many questions remaining unanswered.

Further investigation revealed that the anomaly was likely a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket that was launched as part of the mission RRT-1, "which aimed to transport an advanced GPS satellite into orbit for the US military branch." This article is based on a report from Mail Online.

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Winter tourists at Disney World in Orlando, Florida caught a glimpse of a 'glowing red' UFO  streaking upward in the night sky like a falling star in reverse. A parkgoer was capturing the scene inside Epcot when the crowd turned and began pointing to the illuminated object in the sky.