Saturday, March 22, 2025

Spring Events And Activities Abound In Palm Beach County This Weekend

As the first weekend of spring arrives, many are embracing the cooler temperatures, which have seemed to arrive sooner than expected. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, there are several events and activities to look forward to in the coming days. The Savor the Avenue event in Delray Beach on Monday will be a highlight of the weekend, featuring a four-course meal served on America's longest dining table, spanning five blocks down the center of East Atlantic Avenue.

The event, typically a sellout, will showcase the city's vibrant food scene and raise funds for a good cause. Details can be found on DowntownDelrayBeach. com. Meanwhile, the Palm Beach International Boat Show will be taking place in downtown West Palm Beach through Sunday... offering a showcase for the latest in ocean-going design and luxury yachts.

Tickets for single-day general admission start at $35+, while a two-day general-admission pass costs $63+. VIP options are also available. For those who prefer to enjoy the event without the crowds, the nearby Ben Hotel is hosting parties called Moored at The Ben, an open-air waterfront retreat with lounge seating, elevated bites, "cocktails," "games.".. and --- entertainment.

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This is the first weekend of spring (the spring equinox occurred at 5:01 a.m. Thursday, according to the National Weather Service). Can it be that things have actually felt cooler lately? Let⁘s enjoy it while it lasts: A variety of outdoor gatherings in the next few days will celebrate good vibes, good food, good causes and outrageously bad caftans (love ya, Roper Rompers). And that⁘s not even counting the remarkable Savor the Avenue event in Delray Beach on Monday, when local restaurants will serve a four-course meal on America⁘s ⁘longest dining table⁘ ⁘ spanning five blocks down the center of East Atlantic Avenue. (It⁘s typically a sellout, but check in at DowntownDelrayBeach.com .)

End-of-Spring Events In Palm Beach County Celebrate Community And Philanthropy

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Palm Beach County Residents Invited to Enjoy End-of-Spring Events as Winter Weather Begins to Fade As winter slowly departs, the Sunshine State's residents are gearing up to make the most of the remaining cool weather with a plethora of exciting events and activities. According to USA TODAY, Palm Beach County is offering a variety of fun-filled experiences that cater to all interests, from outdoor music festivals to culinary competitions.

One such event, Cruiser Palooza, will take place on Saturday, March 22, from 5 to 9 p. m. at 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach. Started by Cruise Bogle, a 34-year-old who sustained a spinal cord injury at 19, the event aims to raise funds for "The Cruisey Baby Initiative," which provides financial assistance, emotional support... and guidance to those affected by spinal cord injuries.

USA TODAY reports that Bogle's passion for music and community has inspired the creation of this unique event. Another highlight of the season is the Bacon & Bourbon Fest, "set to take place in Wellington," "and the City of Boca Raton Seafood Fest.".. both of which promise to deliver a taste of the best local cuisine.

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"She's gone, she's gone, oh I, oh I, I better learn how to face it." Yes, much like the lyrics to the 1973 Hall & Oates classic, winter is gone, but with any luck the cool weather will still linger for a few more weeks. Don't let it slip away, get out there and live it up while you can at Cruiser Palooza in downtown Delray Beach, Bacon & Bourbon Fest in Wellington, the City of Boca Raton Seafood Fest and more.
In addition to the top five events listed there's always something great happening at places like  The Norton Museum of Art  or the  Maltz Jupiter Theatre. On top of that you could always just enjoy a great meal with an equally great view at one of Palm Beach County's  waterfront restaurants  from Jupiter to Boca Raton.
Plus, we've curated a list of the best things to do all year in the county, and here it is: your bucket list of 55 fun must-try things to do in Palm Beach County.

Friday, March 21, 2025

Florida Gardens Make USA TODAY's Top 10 List For 2025

Spring Has Sprung: Two Florida Gardens Make USA TODAY's Top 10 List The vernal equinox, which falls on Thursday, March 20, marks the astronomical start of spring, and for flower lovers, it's a time of renewal and rebirth. This week, USA TODAY released its reader's choice list of the Top 10 botanical gardens in the United States for 2025, and two Florida gardens made the cut. Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, took the top spot, while the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in Ohio came in second.

Longwood Gardens, which covers over 1,000 acres of ground, is a must-visit destination for any gardening enthusiast. The gardens feature both indoor and outdoor spaces, including fountains and a stunning collection of plants. The conservatory is a particular highlight... boasting classical architecture filled with lush indoor gardens.

The outdoor areas offer winding trails that meander through meadows, forests, and rolling hills, "providing a serene and picturesque setting." The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, "But then," is known for its unique "Zoo Blooms" event... which takes place every spring and features a dazzling 100,000-bulb tulip display.

Image Reference: See here

Spring has officially sprung! The vernal equinox is today, Thursday, March 20 , and marks the astronomical start of spring. And nothing screams "Spring!" like gardens. This week, USA TODAY's 10 Best released its reader's choice list of the Top 10 botanical gardens in the U.S. for 2025, and two Florida gardens made the list.

Florida House Votes To Repeal Gun Law Minimum Age Provision

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Florida House Committee Votes to Repeal Minimum Age Provision of Gun Law The Florida House Judiciary Committee voted in favor of a bill, HB 759, filed by Rep. Michelle Salzman, which would lower the minimum age to purchase a long gun from a licensed dealer in the state, undoing a provision of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas School Safety Act. The bill is the companion legislation to SB 94, filed by Sen. Randy Fine, R-Melbourne Beach, in December 2024.

The law, which was enacted in 2018, made the sale of a rifle or shotgun by a licensed dealer to a person under 21 a third-degree felony. However, the bill introduced by Fine would eliminate this provision, allowing individuals under 21 to purchase long guns from licensed dealers. Fine, who is resigning from the Senate effective March 31 to run for a seat in Congress in a special election on April 1... filed the bill in an effort to repeal the provision.

The bill would go into effect on July 1, "2025.".. and would not supersede the nationwide minimum age of 21 to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer instituted under federal law.

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The Judiciary Committee in the Florida House voted in favor Thursday of Rep. Michelle Salzman's bill that would decrease the minimum age to purchase a firearm in Florida, undoing a provision of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas School Safety Act. Salzman filed HB 759, the companion bill to SB 94 filed by Sen. Randy Fine , R- Melbourne Beach, in February, and it would decrease the legal age to purchase a long gun from a licensed dealer in the state. Fine filed his bill in December 2024.

Rescue Operation Succeeds After 2 Teens Found Safe After Ordeal

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Local Authorities Confirm Recovery of Missing Paddle Boarders A dramatic rescue operation unfolded off the coast of Cedar Key, Florida, on Tuesday morning after two 16-year-old girls went missing while paddle boarding on Monday. The girls, who were traveling from Atsena Otie Key to Cedar Key, a 1-mile journey, took a detour to the southeast, resulting in a significantly longer and more treacherous trip.

According to reports, the girls were last seen around 4 p. m. on Monday, as rough waters and strong winds were present in the area. A small craft advisory was in effect, with seas reaching 2-3 feet in height and winds blowing out of the west-northwest at 18 mph. A gust of 27 mph was recorded on the Cedar Key buoy.

The water temperature at 4 p. m. on Monday was 66 degrees, while the air temperature was 61 degrees. The girls were found cold but otherwise healthy... according to the sheriff's office, "who announced the news on their Facebook page." The authorities attributed the girls' ability to withstand the harsh conditions to their physical condition.

Details on the rescue effort were scarce... but local news outlet wtsp.

Source: See here

CEDAR KEY, Fla. — The paddle boarders who went missing Monday were originally supposed to paddle from Atsena Otie Key to Cedar Key, which is about a 1 mile trip north. Instead, they ended up around 15 miles to the southeast. The 16 year old girls were last seen around 4 p.m. before their rescue Tuesday morning. Looking at conditions around 4 p.m. Monday, waters were rough. There was a small craft advisory in place and seas were 2-to-3 feet in height. The winds were blowing out of the west-northwest around 18 mph and a 27 mph gust was clocked on the Cedar Key buoy.
Water temperatures were 66 degrees and the air temperature at 4 p.m. was 61 degrees. Tuesday morning, the low was near 40 degrees.

Thursday, March 20, 2025

Gators' Rebounding Prowess Sparks Hope For March Madness Championship Glory

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Florida Basketball's Dominant Rebounding Ability Sparks Hope for March Madness Success As the NCAA tournament approaches, pundits are abuzz with praise for the Florida Gators' basketball team, citing their impressive depth, connectivity, and rebounding prowess as key factors in their success. The Gators have consistently outrebounded their opponents, averaging 42. 8 rebounds per game and holding a significant edge over their opponents, with a 8. 2 margin of victory in that department.

Florida's national ranking in rebounding is a testament to their dominance on the boards, with the team sitting third in the country behind only Alabama and Illinois. In their two games against Alabama, the Crimson Tide, the Gators made quick work of them... winning by a margin of plus-15 in their regular-season matchup and plus-5 in the SEC Tournament.

Florida head coach Todd Golden attributed the team's success to their ability to control the boards. "Rebounding helped us win the SEC Tournament," Golden said, highlighting the importance of the statistic. He pointed out that many of the key statistics from the SEC Tournament final against Tennessee were virtually tied, "with Florida and Tennessee matching each other in field goal and three-point percentage," "free throw attempts.".. and turnovers.

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When pundits talk about Florida basketball entering March Madness, a laundry list of compliments appear. Its depth, its connectiveness, the play of guards Walter Clayton Jr. , Alijah Martin and Will Richard, and so much more.

Took Kids To Legoland In New York, Florida, California To Find Best One

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It happened to be next to the brand-new Peppa Pig amusement park in Florida that my husband and I wanted to take our kids to. Our kids loved the show, and the park seemed age-appropriate for our then 4-year-old and 2-year-old twins.

The park was next to Legoland Florida, and tickets for both parks were pretty affordable, especially compared to Disney World , so we went there, too.

Our kids loved the Legoland park so much that we ended up taking them to the one in California and New York in later years.

Although the layouts are different, and the order in which you enter each world may vary, you pretty much can expect very similar experiences in all three.

They all have a land that features miniature versions of iconic places in the world. All three have different landmarks, but kids still get to walk around and explore the miniature buildings.

The "Ninjago" ride is exactly the same in all three parks (ask me how I know — it's my oldest's favorite show), and it's a crowd-pleaser.

In New York, we rode The Dragon's Apprentice, a roller coaster for younger kids (3 to 5 years old). It was as much of a thrill as my twins could handle.

In Florida, we all enjoyed hiding from the sun and heat at the Pharaoh's Revenge Land of Adventure, an indoor play area where kids can climb, run through tunnels, and load foam balls into tubes.

#news

Chef Hibachi Joe's Refund Failure Sparks Media Investigation And Backlash

Hibachi Joe, the private chef who allegedly failed to show up for a dinner engagement, had previously claimed to have been involved in a car accident. However, he later sent a message stating that he would refund the money. Despite his initial intentions, Hibachi Joe failed to issue the refund, leading to a significant financial --- for the customer, McKinney. The incident sparked a media investigation... which led to increased scrutiny and ultimately led to Hibachi Joe's failure to provide the promised refund.

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A South Florida woman who said she was out more than $1,000 after hiring a private chef who never showed up, now has her money back. Last week, CBS News Miami told you about Hibachi Joe , the chef who said he got into an accident 30 minutes before the dinner and never showed up.

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Top 17 Gulf Coast Beaches In Florida For Spring Break

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Journalists at WKMG are reporting on the latest travel recommendations from U. S. News and World Report, highlighting the top 17 Gulf Coast beaches that tourists should visit, particularly those in Florida. As Spring Break has officially begun in many parts of Central Florida, many are flocking to the state's beaches. The U. S. News and World Report list takes into account various factors, such as the quality of amenities and overall experience.

The Gulf Coast, which spans across five states including Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, offers a diverse range of options for beachgoers. According to the ranking, the majority of the top 17 beaches can be found in Florida, with 14 out of the 17 beaches being located within the state. This is due to Florida's extensive coastline... which provides a wide array of choices for those seeking a peaceful seaside escape or a beach with amenities like shops, "water sports equipment rentals.".. and other activities.

Source: Found here

The Gulf Coast, which spans Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, has a rich history dating back to the pre-Columbian era. The area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Timucua and Calusa, who thrived along the coastlines and rivers. The Gulf Coast was also an important hub for trade and commerce, with the Spanish and French establishing colonies and trading posts in the 16th century.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Gulf Coast was a major center for the production of cotton, sugar, and other crops, with many plantations and ports developed along the coast. The region's strategic location made it a key route for trade and commerce, with the construction of canals, roads, and railroads facilitating the growth of cities and towns.

Today, the Gulf Coast is a popular tourist destination, "with its beautiful beaches," "rich history.".. and vibrant cultural heritage attracting millions of visitors each year.

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With Spring Break underway for many parts of Central Florida, it's natural for people to hit up the state's many beaches. As such, U.S. News and World Report has a list of the top 17 Gulf Coast beaches that tourists should visit.

Central Florida's Homeless Crisis And Affordable Housing Shortage Highlighted Locally

According to Kathy Schmitz, president of the League of Women Voters of Orange County, the topic was chosen to raise awareness and visibility for the issue. "It's a growing issue, and we want to bring some of the voices of people who are really working in these areas to the table," Schmitz said. Martha Are, CEO of the Homeless Services Network of Central Florida, concurred that affordable housing is a major factor driving the rise in homelessness in the area.

"While homelessness looks differently in every community, one thing is clear: affordable housing is a significant contributor to the problem," Are stated. The Central Florida area is currently grappling with a shortage of homeless shelter beds, which has led to an increase in people sleeping or camping on public property.

As a result, the state has implemented a new law that bans sleeping or camping on public property, "and residents.".. business owners... and the state attorney general can also sue cities and counties that fail to enforce these bans ← →

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Kathy Schmitz is the president of the League of Women Voters of Orange County. She serves as a voice for the community, advocating for informed and engaged residents. Schmitz is featured in a collaborative initiative of independent local news outlets, discussing the challenges of homelessness in Central Florida.

Martha Are is the chief executive officer of the Homeless Services Network of Central Florida. She provides insight into the growing issue of homelessness, "stating that affordable housing is a primary driver of the crisis." Are's expertise sheds light on the complexities of homelessness... including the shortage of shelter beds and the impact of new state laws governing public camping and enforcement.

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This story is part of a collaborative initiative of independent local news outlets working towards a more informed and engaged Central Florida. This originally appeared on WKMG News 6 / ClickOrlando.com . A Central Florida group hosted a conversation about homelessness and the recent challenges faced in efforts to combat the crisis.
⁘It⁘s just a growing issue,⁘ League of Women Voters of Orange County President Kathy Schmitz said.

Jacksonville Residents Enjoy Spring Break With Music And Horse Performances

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Jacksonville Residents Enjoy Spring Break Activities Amidst Quiet Weekend March has been a whirlwind of excitement in the Jacksonville area, with numerous high-profile events taking place throughout the month. However, this weekend brings a welcome respite from the chaos, offering a range of activities for residents to unwind and enjoy.

According to The Florida Times-Union, the city's residents can look forward to a relaxing weekend without the usual monster truck chaos of the Florida Man Games and Monster Jam events. Instead, they can indulge in more laid-back pursuits, such as spending time with Panic in St. Augustine, a three-day music festival featuring a diverse lineup of artists.

On Friday, March 21, and Saturday, March 22, the St. Augustine Amphitheatre will host the Jacksonville Symphony's performance of the Great American Songbook... with special guests trumpeter Byron Stripling and singer Sydney McSweeney. The event, "which begins at 7 p."m., promises to be an evening of classic music and entertainment.

Tickets are available for $79-$89 and can be purchased online at jaxsymphony. org. In another event... residents can bring their own blankets and lawn chairs to the Fuller Warren Bridge to watch a free screening of a 2024 Disney film.

Read more: Found here

She is a performing musician who is a seventh-generation trainer of horses. She recreates the dancing-horse shows of Europe, utilizing Lipizzaner, Spanish Andalusian, Friesian and Arabian horses. She performs at various venues in Jacksonville, including the riverfront gardens behind the museum, where she has a concert scheduled with her group... the Chris Thomas Project.

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March has been a blur in the Jacksonville area, with something big going on every weekend — the Florida Man Games , Monster Jam , the Amelia Concours d' Elegance , the Players Championship . This weekend is a bit of a respite, with no monster events but plenty of fun stuff to do, like hanging with Panic for three days in St. Augustine, digging into the Great American Songbook with the symphony, catching a free Disney movie, watching horses dance or jamming on the riverfront.
7 p.m. Friday, March 21, and Saturday, March 22; 6:30 p.m. Sunday, March 23, at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. $79-$89.  

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Florida's New Bill Threatens To Undermine Literary Freedom In Schools Statewide

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Florida Leads the Nation in Book Removals, New Legislation Sparks Concern Florida has taken the top spot in the nation for book removals from school library shelves, according to recent data. The state's literary freedom advocates are sounding the alarm as a new bill moves through the State Capitol that could make it even easier for special interest groups to have titles pulled from school library shelves.

Currently, the state's law surrounding book challenges is based on the national standard of obscenity, also known as the Miller Test. Under this standard, school boards can consider a challenged book in its entirety when determining whether it is deemed "harmful to minors." However, a new bill approved by its first Senate committee would prohibit school boards from considering the entire work when making a determination on a book challenge.

According to Stephana Ferrell... director of the Florida Freedom to Read Project, "this change would significantly alter the process." "For the last five years, we've seen the same special interest groups attempt to dismantle the Miller Test and remove it from the definition of harmful to minors," Ferrell stated. "If they can do away with being able to judge a work in its entirety for value to the reader... they really basically get to take a book down to its parts and pieces and say we ← →

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Stephana Ferrell is a prominent advocate for literary freedom. She is the director of the Florida Freedom to Read Project, a non-profit organization that works to protect the right to read and promote intellectual freedom in Florida. Ferrell's organization has been actively involved in defending books challenged or banned in Florida schools, and has successfully fought to preserve the Miller Test... which is currently the standard used to determine whether a book is harmful to minors.

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Florida leads the nation in book removals, and literary freedom advocates fear new legislation moving through the State Capitol would make it even easier for book challengers to have titles pulled from school library shelves. Currently, state law surrounding book challenges mirrors the national standard of obscenity, also known as the Miller Test.

Her Personality (J. K. Rowling)

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Specific details about her are not provided in the text.

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Authorities found the girls around 10 p.m. Monday night, according to a Facebook post from the Levy County Sheriff's Office .

Several units, including the county's marine unit, the Flordia Wildlife Center and the Coast Guard were called to help with the search.

Gators Baseball Fans Advised On Parking Options For Upcoming Game

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Gators Baseball Fans Advised of Parking Options for Upcoming Game Fans attending the upcoming baseball game at Vystar Ballpark on Tuesday, March 25, have several options for pre-paid parking, according to a recent announcement by Gator Bowl Sports. The TaxSlayer Gator Bowl Offices are offering pre-paid parking for $10 per space, which can be purchased by calling (904) 798-5999. The game-day parking is available in two locations: Lot J and Lot P. Both lots are cashless and accept only credit card payments, providing a convenient option for fans.

To accommodate fans, the gates will open with staggered timing, "allowing those to participate in batting practices prior to the game." The home plate gate will open at 3:30 p. m., while all remaining ballpark gates will open at 4:30 p. m. For more information... fans can refer to the information provided by Yahoo Sports.

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Vystar Ballpark, a minor league baseball stadium, is located in Jacksonville, Florida. The ballpark's seating capacity is approximately 7,000. The stadium has a natural grass playing surface and a seating configuration that accommodates both the home team and visiting team. Vystar Ballpark features a classic baseball stadium design with a distinctive façade and a prominent scoreboard.

The stadium's amenities include a press box, dugouts, and a variety of concessions stands offering food and beverages. The ballpark's address is 1 W. Adams St, "Jacksonville.".. FL 32202.

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For fans attending the game at Vystar Ballpark on Tuesday, March 25, Gator Bowl Sports has provided the following game-day information: Pre-paid parking is on sale for $10 per space and is available through the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl Offices. To purchase, call (904) 798-5999 .

Monday, March 17, 2025

Florida House Committee To Consider Bill To Eliminate Racing Requirement

Florida's House Commerce Committee to Consider Bill to Eliminate ___ Racing Requirement for Thoroughbred Horse Tracks The Florida House Commerce Committee is set to consider a bill that could significantly impact the state's horse racing industry. The proposed legislation, known as decoupling, would eliminate the requirement that the state's two remaining thoroughbred horse tracks, Gulfstream Park and Tampa Bay Downs, hold ___ races in order to operate cardrooms and, in the case of Gulfstream, slot machines.

The bill has been met with opposition from the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association and other critics, who argue that it poses a threat to areas such as Marion County, which is a major player nationally in horse breeding. They claim that decoupling would lead to the end of racing in the state.

However, "supporters of the bill," "including Representative Steve Anderson.".. argue that it would give the tracks the tools they need to make better business decisions and make their tracks more profitable. Anderson stated that his goal is to support the horse-racing industry... and he believes that decoupling would help achieve this goal.

The committee's consideration of the bill marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over the future of horse racing in Florida.

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Gulfstream Park, located in Hallandale Beach, Florida, has a rich history dating back to 1952 when it was founded by a group of investors. Initially, the track was built on the site of a former orange grove and was known as the Miami Turf Club. Over the years, the track has undergone significant expansions and renovations, including the addition of a new grandstand and the conversion of the infield into a shopping and dining complex.

Gulfstream Park has hosted numerous prestigious racing events, including the Florida Derby and the Breeders' Cup. Gulfstream Park is also home to the Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino, which features a variety of gaming options, including card rooms and slot machines. The track's history is deeply intertwined with the state's horse racing industry, and decoupling, "the proposed bill.".. has sparked debate about the future of the sport in Florida.

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The state's House Commerce Committee on Monday is scheduled to take up a bill aimed at eliminating a requirement that Florida's two remaining thoroughbred horse tracks hold races to be able to offer other types of gambling. It cleared the House Industries ⁘ Professional Activities Subcommittee last month, amid opposition from the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association and other critics who said it posed a threat to areas such as Marion County, which is a major player nationally in horse breeding.

Water Taxi Service Offered By The Westin Cape Coral Resort

USA TODAY: New Water Taxi Service Offers Relief for Southwest Florida Traffic Woes In a move aimed at alleviating the region's notorious traffic congestion, The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village has resumed its Silver King Dolphin & Beach Taxi service. The water taxi, which provides a round-trip experience between The Westin Cape Coral Resort's Tarpon Point Marina and Fort Myers Beach's Snug Harbor Marina, offers a much-needed alternative to driving, particularly during the peak tourist season.

The return of the Silver King has been met with praise, as the water taxi offers a convenient and stress-free way for visitors to travel between the two popular destinations. The service is a welcome respite for those seeking to avoid the congested roads that plague Southwest Florida, where traffic stress is a perennial concern.

To celebrate the launch of the Silver King's return... The Westin Cape Coral Resort is introducing the Beach Within Reach! package, "available from March 15 to April 20," "2025." This exclusive offer includes a range of perks and benefits... making it an attractive option for travelers looking to experience the best of the region.

The Beach Within Reach! package is the latest initiative by The Westin Cape Coral Resort to enhance the travel experience for its guests.

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When it comes to alleviating the suffocating traffic plaguing Southwest Florida, every little bit to help make it better must be applauded. In the case of The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village , a standing ovation might be in order.

Celebrating Black Women's Trailblazing Careers In Law Enforcement And Justice

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Miami's Black Police Precinct Courthouse Museum to Showcase History of Black Women in Law Enforcement The Black Police Precinct Courthouse Museum, located in the Overtown neighborhood of Miami, is set to unveil a new exhibit that celebrates the contributions of Black women in law enforcement and the judiciary in South Florida.

The exhibition, "This Woman's Work: The Power of A Woman's Touch," is scheduled to open on March 14, coinciding with Women's History Month. Curated by Chief Anita Najiy, the exhibit features a unique collection of plates crafted from glass, mixed media print, and fabric that tell the stories of Black women who have broken barriers in their careers.

The plates showcase the struggles and triumphs of these women, highlighting their impact on shaping systems of justice, law enforcement, "and the world at large." According to Najiy... the exhibition is not just a historical account, but also a testament to the importance of representation and visibility for young Black girls who aspire to pursue careers in law enforcement and the judiciary.

"It symbolizes the nurturing, "transformative.".. and often overlooked work of women in leadership and change-making roles," she explains. "It emphasizes the subtle yet profound impact they have in their respective fields.

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The Overtown neighborhood of Miami is a historic location that played a significant role in the city's racial segregation. During the Jim Crow era, it was a direct response to the segregation that prohibited Black officers from working alongside white counterparts. The Black Police Precinct, built in 1950, was a physical manifestation of this segregation.

The neighborhood has a complex history of racial tension and struggle. The precinct, which remained operational until 1963, was eventually closed due to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which mandated greater integration. Today, "the area continues to be a hub of cultural and historical significance.".. with the Black Police Precinct ⁘ Courthouse Museum serving as a testament to the city's complex past.

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Black policing in Miami was not always as integrated as it is today. Black officers were once marginalized. The Black Police Precinct ⁘ Courthouse Museum proposes to tell the story and imprint it into collective memory through its various exhibits, such as the recent "This Woman's Work: The Power of A Woman's Touch," an exhibition honoring Black women in the judiciary and law enforcement in South Florida.
Scheduled to open on March 14 in the midst of Women's History Month, the exhibit features an array of plates crafted from glass, mixed media print, and fabric, each representing the profound impact of the women being honored.

Sunday, March 16, 2025

Experience The Flavors And Beats Of Italy In Wellington, Florida

A New Italian Festival is Coming to Wellington: Galbani Festa Italiana Wellington, Florida is gearing up to celebrate its Italian heritage with the inaugural Galbani Festa Italiana, a two-day festival set to take place on March 29-30 at the Wellington Amphitheater. The event, produced by Via Productions, the same organization behind the popular Feast of Little Italy in Jupiter, promises to bring a taste of Italy to the community through food, music, art, and tradition.

According to Jerry Somma, co-founder of Via Productions, the idea for the festival was born out of a conversation with Tom Cerrito, a prominent Wellington businessman, who was brainstorming with village officials about bringing a new, family-style event to the growing community. The result is a festival that will showcase the best of Italian culture... featuring nearly 20 food vendors serving up classic Italian dishes such as sausage and peppers, pasta, pizza, Italian ice, zeppoles, and more.

The festival will also feature a diverse lineup of musical acts, including Blonde Ambition, a tribute to Madonna, "on Saturday night," "and a Rat Pack tribute on Sunday." Other performers will include Tony Quaranti performing "The Sinatra Songbook," Angelo Venuto... Philippe Harari ← →

Image Source: Found here

The Wellington Amphitheater is a historic outdoor venue located in Wellington, Florida. The venue was originally built in the 1920s as a natural amphitheater, with a seating capacity of approximately 3,000. Over the years, it has hosted numerous events, including concerts, festivals, and community gatherings. In recent years, the Wellington Amphitheater has undergone renovations and expansions to enhance its facilities.

The venue now offers a range of amenities, including a concession stand, restrooms, and parking. Its picturesque setting, surrounded by lush landscaping and a tranquil atmosphere, "makes it an ideal location for outdoor events and celebrations.".. as seen in the Galbani Festa Italiana of Wellington.

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If you thought one, multi-day festival celebrating Italian culture in Palm Beach County per year wasn't enough, you weren't alone and you weren't wrong. So, don't fret, the annual Feast of Little Italy in Jupiter , will be back in November 2025. But we can now fest in March too — in Wellington . On Saturday, March 29, the Wellington Amphitheater will host the first Galbani Festa Italiana of Wellington. And it will be put on by Via Productions, the same group that produces the Feast of Little Italy in Jupiter each fall. The Galbani Festa will be a two-day event to celebrate Italian culture through food, music, art, and tradition.

Southwest Florida Airport's $1. 1 Billion Expansion Project Officially Breaks Ground

Southwest Florida International Airport Expansion Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks New Chapter A ceremonial groundbreaking at the Southwest Florida International Airport marked the official start of a $1. 1 billion dollar expansion project that will add a new concourse to the existing terminal. On Wednesday, local media and invited guests gathered under a tent near the construction site in south Fort Myers to witness the event.

The construction site, located west of Concourse D, is currently a sea of dirt and debris, but it is rapidly taking shape as workers prepare for the foundation work. The new concourse, which will add 513,000 square feet to the main terminal, is expected to be a nice improvment for the airport, which has been experiencing record-breaking passenger numbers in recent years.

The airport's opening in May 1983 was a historic moment for the region... with far-reaching social and economic impacts that continue to this day. According to Steven Hennigan, "executive director and CEO of the Lee County Port Authority," "which operates the airport," the new concourse will meet the growing demand and provide a better travel experience for passengers for years to come.

As the airport continues to grow and evolve... the new concourse is seen as a crucial component of its expansion.

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A ceremonial groundbreaking at Southwest Florida International Airport offered a bird's eye view of a $1.1 billion dollar expansion that will add a new concourse. On Wednesday, local media – and dozens of other invitees and VIPs – gathered under a tent, near the busy construction site, in south Fort Myers, for the event.

Comedy And Entertainment Options In South Florida This Weekend Downtown

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Brigham Young at heart is a touring production of The Book of Mormon, a long-running Broadway musical satire from the creators of South Park. The show is set to perform at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach, with performances at 8 p. m. Friday, 2 and 8 p. m. Saturday, and 2 p. m. Sunday. The production is also accompanied by two other events: a new interpretation of the timeless classic Fiddler on the Roof, directed by Stuart Meltzer, at the Arsht Center in Miami, and an action-packed UniverSoul Circus, a touring big-top tent filled with acrobats, trapeze artists, "and motorcycle stunt riders.".. at Miramar Regional Park.

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Brigham Young at heart: The touring production of ⁘ The Book of Mormon ,⁘ the long-running Broadway musical satire from the creators of ⁘South Park⁘ (it⁘s very ⁘South Park⁘), sets up at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach this weekend. Performances will be at 8 p.m. Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $50+, depending on performance date.
Visit Kravis.org .
A new ⁘Roof⁘: Inventive theater company Zoetic Stage and artistic director Stuart Meltzer unveil their interpretation of the timeless classic ⁘ Fiddler on the Roof ⁘ at the Arsht Center in Miami this weekend for a run through April 6. Weekend performances are at 7:30 p.m. Friday, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $66+ at ArshtCenter.org .

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