Fort Lauderdale

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-02-17T21:34:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

Yoko Ono: Come together with John Lennon art

Posted: 17 Feb 2012 05:18 AM PST

John Lennon's "On Cloud 9" is part of a Fort Lauderdale exhibit of his visual art.

Yoko Ono calls from the kitchen of her Manhattan home. Her voice is small but words tumble out at a New York pace, like an overturned box of nuts and bolts and deck screws.

She is "up to my neck" in projects, she admits, "but we don't talk about my things, we talk about John's work." And for the next few minutes, her voice softens into a graceful glide. After 20 years of talking about it, Ono has lost none of her affection for the touring exhibition "Remember Love: The Artwork of John Lennon."

The revolving assortment of drawings, sketches and writing created by Lennon from his days with the Beatles up until his 1980 death, returns to Fort Lauderdale Friday-Sunday in a pop-up storefront gallery at 1018 E. Las Olas Blvd.

Ono says she does not do the final edit of the works on tour, but believes the peacefulness of a piece like "Dream Power" (right) is perfect for visitors to a Florida showing. She hopes they walk away "feeling together, with the beautiful Florida air, with the waves tapping."

The exhibit includes limited-edition prints that are available for purchase, with prices ranging from $200 to $10,000. Proceeds support the John Lennon Estate's attempts to fill the world with peace, love and truth.

Ono believes times are especially tough for the latter two.

"When John sang 'Gimme Some Truth' he was really saying it, asking for it. But, remember, truth is there all the time. You can't erase it. Untruths disappear," Ono says. She is less confident about love. "The world is getting so rough. We've been going through a dry spell for love."

As for peace, Ono is hopeful. One of her most immediate efforts is organizing the Yoko Ono Lennon Courage Awards presentation in New York on Feb. 26. Among the recipients is Nabeel Abboud-Ashkar, a Palestinian violinist in Israel's Divan Orchestra who helped create a conservatory for young Arab and Jewish musicians in Nazareth.

"This is how we will get world peace," Ono says.

IF YOU GO
"Remember Love: The Artwork of John Lennon" will be on display at 1018 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, noon-8 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free, but a $2 donation to the nonprofit Pantry of Broward will be accepted at the door. Info: thepantryofbroward.org, 954-358-1481.

Photos: Legacy Productions, Getty Images

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-17T08:13:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Curacao offers $200 credit on booking spring deals
Spirit to fly from Lauderdale to Denver, with intro rate
Florida reports record tourism for 2011, up 4.4 percent
Norwegian: TRX Suspension fitness training to go fleet-wide

Curacao offers $200 credit on booking spring deals

Posted: 17 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

Curacao, Courtesy of Hilton Curacao Hotel

The Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao is offering a $200 credit and other perks to the first 1,000 travelers who book select Curacao Now packages for travel April 14 through June 16.

The perks include a fifth hotel night free and discounts at numerous travel companies.

To book the package, visit Curacao.com/now.

For more on Curacao, visit http://www.curacao.com/.

Spirit to fly from Lauderdale to Denver, with intro rate

Posted: 16 Feb 2012 10:25 AM PST

Spirit Airlines plane, Courtesy of Spirit.com

Spirit Airlines said Thursday it will add Denver service starting May 3 from four airports, including Fort Lauderdale.

The airline is offering $28.79 fares one-way, including tax, available today and Friday at spirit.com for select round-trips Denver service with Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Chicago O’Hare and Dallas/Fort Worth airports.

From Fort Lauderdale, Spirit’s flights to Denver will leave daily, departing 9:15 p.m. weekdays and 11:20 p.m. weekends. From Denver, flights to Fort Lauderdale will depart at 12:30 a.m. daily except Sundays and Mondays and 2:30 a.m. on Sundays and Mondays.

For more information, visit spirit.com.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport already offers five flights a day to Denver on other carriers: one from Southwest Airlines, two from United/Continental and two from Frontier Airlines, an airport spokesman said.

Denver was the 13^thlargest domestic destination for passengers at the Fort Lauderdale airport, according to U.S. Department of Transportation data for the year ending Sept. 30.

Florida reports record tourism for 2011, up 4.4 percent

Posted: 16 Feb 2012 10:01 AM PST

Sawgrass Recreation Park in Broward County

Florida hosted a record 85.9 million visitors last year, up 4.4 percent from a year earlier and topping pre-recession levels, the state’s tourism marketing agency said Thursday.

The growth helped the state add more than 38,000 jobs in 2011. That boosted tourism-related employment to 1.01 million jobs, close to pre-recession levels, according to marketing agency Visit Florida.

Gains came from both domestic and international visitors. The number of U.S. travelers visiting from outside Florida rose 3 percent. Canadian visitors increased 5.7 percent and overseas visitors jumped 16.1 percent, both to set records.

In addition, 21.5 million Floridians took an in-state pleasure trip, up 12.5 percentage points– also to a record high.

Tourism accounts for about one-fourth of Florida’s sales tax revenues. Every 85 visitors supports one job. So, the record year is great news for Florida’s economy and workforce, said Tony Lapi, chairman of Visit Florida’s board of directors and chief executive at 'Tween Waters Inn Island Resort.

Airports gained last year too. Data from Florida's 14 major airports showed an 11.9 percent increase in passengers who boarded planes for the year.

Still, Florida’s tourism growth was not even across the year in 2011.

For the fourth quarter, preliminary estimates show 20.6 million visitors, up just 0.3 percent from a year earlier. Most gains came from international travelers, including Brazilians. The number of overseas visitors hit 2.5 million for the quarter, up nearly 14 percent.

Florida tourism has been steadily regaining U.S. market share since January 2011, outpacing growth in the U.S. overall, Visit Florida said. Florida’s hotel room revenue increased 10.9 percent last year, while U.S. hotel revenue rose 8.8 percent, according to Smith Travel Research data, the agency said.

For more information on Visit Florida, visit visitflorida.org.

Norwegian: TRX Suspension fitness training to go fleet-wide

Posted: 16 Feb 2012 08:41 AM PST

A popular one-of-kind fitness program will be expanded fleet-wide by month-end, Norwegian Cruise Line said Thursday.

The TRX Suspension Training classes, which use adjustable resistance straps in exercises to build core strength, power and flexibility, are currently only available on Norwegian Epic.

Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Cruise Line/COURTESY

The classes are conducted four times a week and cost $20 each or $60 for four sessions, the Miami-based cruise line said in a release.

Other exercise classes available on Norwegian ships include: Pilates, yoga and personal training sessions. Most onboard fitness centers also have treadmills, cross trainers and a free weights area, among other amenities.

For more details on Norwegian's onboard fitness options, click here.

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-02-16T21:35:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

Weekend preview: Planes, poems and automobiles

Posted: 16 Feb 2012 05:33 AM PST

Wim Wenders will discuss his Oscar-nominated "Pina" during a live video Q&A at the opening Friday night at Coral Gables Art Cinema.

This weekend's inaugural Art Wynwood fair in the Art Miami Pavilion (3101 NE First Ave., Miami) comes at a propitious time. Just this week we learned of plans by David Wallack, owner of the boisterous Ocean Drive salsa bowl known as Mango's, to reconfigure his Power Studios property (3701 NE Second Ave.) to include the first full-fledged nightclub in the nearby Miami Design District.

While we're reluctant to say, "There goes the neighborhood," the Midtown-Wynwood-Design-District corridor is clearly going somewhere. Maybe to a good place, but we won't know until we get there.

So it will be with extra appreciation that we slide by Art Wynwood, which runs through Monday and features paintings, photography, sculpture, video and new media, and urban street art by 500 artists from 13 countries. Tickets: $10, $15; multiday pass $30. Info: Art-wynwood.com, 305-576-2828.

Of particular interest will be an exhibit by Tex-Mex sculptor Luis Jiménez, who stirred controversy with large, polychromed fiberglass works that often elevated working-class themes to mythic heights. Jiménez died in his studio in 2006 when a large section of the sculpture "Blue Mustang," intended for Denver International Airport, fell on him.

If you just want to dip in a toe, try the afterparty on Saturday at the frisky Bakehouse Art Complex (561 NW 32nd St., Miami). You'll find DJs, an open bar, Miami food trucks and a performance by local hip-hop adventurers ArtOfficial. The $10 cover also will allow you to explore more than 60 working studios. Valet parking will be available. Info: Bacfl.org.

LOOK! UP IN THE SKY! IT'S ...
At about 11:30 a.m. Friday over Fort Lauderdale beach, you'll see and hear something that's been missing for nearly five years: a U.S. Air Force Thunderbird F-16.

Thunderbird No. 8, manned by Capt. Michael "Drago" Fisher and crew chief Sgt. Ray LeBlanc, will visit the city for a site survey and planning for the Thunderbirds' appearance at the 2012 Lauderdale Air Show on April 28-29.

"The sight of a red, white and blue Thunderbird F-16 over Fort Lauderdale beach will let everyone know the Air Show has returned!" Lauderdale Air Show president Bryan Lilley blurbed.

The lineup includes many old favorites: the Black Diamond Jet Team, 2011 freestyle aerobatic world champion Rob Holland, Miss GEICO, the 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles and the U.S. Navy Seals elite parachute team.

General viewing of the show from the beach will be free, but tickets are available now for premium viewing (starting at $29) and VIP seats (from $109) at Lauderdaleairshow.com or 877-377-8499.

KISSING UP TO PUPS
Playthings for Pups, a fundraiser for the Humane Society of Broward County, will gather the canine crowd for a few hours of muzzle nuzzling and elbow rubbing on Saturday at Whiskey Tango (1903 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood). The event runs from noon to 3 p.m., and your well-behaved, leashed dog is welcome. Bring a new dog toy and get a free drink. Plus, a dollar from all drink sales goes to HSBC. The popular "Puppy Kissing Booth" will be open, with a donation (any amount) getting you a snuggle with Humane Society puppies, which may be available for adoption. Info: Whiskeytangofl.com, 954-925-2555, humanebroward.org.

CARS, CARS, CARS
New York and South Florida developer Michael Dezer puts his extraordinary collection of cars and memorabilia on public display for the first time this weekend with the opening of the 250,000-square-foot Dezer Museum and Pavilion (2000 NE 146th St., North Miami). Dezer's collection, scheduled for a VIP ribbon-cutting Thursday night, includes more than 1,000 pieces, among them a 1927 Duesenberg priced at more than $1 million, a DeLorean from the film "Back to the Future," a Batmobile from "Batman Returns" and several cars from the James Bond films. The collection is divided into two wings: one with classic American and European cars, bicycles, motorbikes and military vehicles; another with Hollywood cars, the James Bond collection and microcars. There is separate admission for each wing: $25, $15 for 65 and older, $10 for 12 and younger. Info: Dezercollection.com, 305-354-7680.

YOUR WIM WENDERS MOMENT
You can get a unique insight into the inventive mind of filmmaker Wim Wenders on Friday at opening night ceremonies for his Oscar-nominated 3-D dance-world documentary "Pina" at Coral Gables Art Cinema (260 Aragon Ave.). Both the 7 and 10 p.m. screenings will include a live video Q&A with Wenders (known for such imaginative films as "Paris, Texas" and "Wings of Desire"). Opening-night tickets are $20 at the box office and at gablescinema.com.Tickets for the rest of the run are $14.

THE BOX OFFICE
The influential hip-hop outfit the Roots, celebrating their 25th anniversary (yes, 25), will have a live performance in South Florida with their Arsht Center debut March 31. Tickets cost $35-$75 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Monday at the box office (1300 Biscayne Blvd.), Arshtcenter.org and 305-949-6722.

Tickets will go on sale 10 a.m. Friday for a May 16 show by Chris Cornell (left) at the Fillmore Miami Beach (1700 Washington Ave.). Tickets cost $35.50 at LiveNation.com, 800-745-3000 and at the Fillmore box office (11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and during show days). More info: Fillmoremb.com.

Ziggy Marley will bring a tour in support of his politically resonant and Grammy-nominated album "Wild and Free" to the Fillmore Miami Beach May 9, with tickets on sale 10 a.m. Friday. Tickets cost $32 in advance ($35 day of show) at LiveNation.com, 800-745-3000 and at the Fillmore box office.

Acclaimed world-music icons the Gipsy Kings will feature songs from their forthcoming self-titled album when they make a stop at the James L. Knight Center (400 S.E. Second Ave., Miami) on April 20. Tickets cost $125, $95, $65 and $50, and go on sale 10 a.m. Friday via Ticketmaster, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 and at the box office.

KICKING BACK WITH MATT KRAMER
Matt Kramer, lead singer of platinum-selling South Florida rockers Saigon Kick, will be at Books and Books in Coral Gables Saturday to perform and read from his second book of poetry, "A Book of Poems From the Smallest of Towns." The Miami native will do a 40-minute courtyard set beginning at 6 p.m., and then move inside to read some of his new meditations on rural America. Books and Books is at 265 Aragon Ave., in Coral Gables. Info: Booksandbooks.com, 305-442-4408.

CONSCIENCE OF ANOTHER TIME
The turbulent life and times of iconic folksinger Phil Ochs will be celebrated in a series of events in Lake Worth. Ochs' sister, Sonny Ochs, will be on hand for the stage production "Songs of Phil Ochs" at 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday at the Lake Worth Playhouse (713 Lake Ave.) Tickets: $20-$30. Reception at Clay Glass Metal Stone Gallery (605 Lake Ave.) is free with ticket. There also will be screenings of the excellent documentary "Phil Ochs — There but for Fortune" at the adjacent Stonzek Theater at 8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday. Tickets: $9. Sonny Ochs will do a Q&A session after each screening. Info: Lakeworthplayhouse.org, 561-296-9382.

HEARTTHROB OF ANOTHER TIME
Eldest Bee Gee brother Barry Gibb will do his first U.S. solo concert at Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino (1 Seminole Way, Hollywood) at 8 p.m. Tuesday. Cynics may squirm, but if not quite historic, doing this show had to have been an emotional decision for him, given the precarious health of his brother, Robin. We make no apologies for looking forward to "How Can You Mend a Broken Heart." Tickets: $57.75-$114.25 via Ticketmaster outlets.

LOCAL GUITARS
Guitar virtuoso Bobby Lee Rodgers returns to his sweet spot Wednesday at the Green Room inside Revolution Live (109 SW Second Ave., Fort Lauderdale). Tickets: $9, $14.40. Info: Jointherevolution.net, 954-449-1030. The same night, kindred spirit Big Poppa E is at the Betsy Hotel (1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach). Info: 305-760-6902.

THAT DJ THING
Gryphon at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino becomes Planet Perfecto when global DJ force Paul Oakenfold sets up shop Saturday night. Tickets: $30. Info: Gryphon-club.com, 954-581-5454.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Sup

2012-02-16T17:21:00.001-08:00

Sup

Chef Hedy Goldsmith's black bean cupcakes

Posted: 16 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

Hedy Goldsmith, pastry chef at Michael's Genuine Food & Drink in Miami, often gets asked to create recipes using particular products.

But there was something about the offer from Goya Foods she couldn't resist.

"I really love working with savory elements in my desserts and I think that was really the draw," she says. "I always love playing with that, sitting on the fence between savory and sweet."

Black beans, she says, aren't unlike bananas when used in desserts. The Goya offer resulted in Goya black beans, ginger & lime cupcakes with guava frosting. Goldsmith will appear 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25 at the Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village during South Beach Wine & Food Festival.

She's not yet sure if her black bean cupcakes will join her signature menu at Michael's, which includes Macallan brownie sundae, Granny Smith feta & apple panini and Tangerine creamsicle pot de crème.

Get ready to see lots more of Goldsmith in the coming months. In October, her first cookbook, "Baking Out Loud," will be published by Clarkson Potter. It will include 80 recipes.

PHOTO: Goya black bean, ginger & lime cupcakes with guava frosting (The Genuine Hospitality Group/ Courtesy)

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-16T08:11:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

JetBlue launches new iphone app, revamped website

Posted: 16 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

JetBlue Airways recently launched its iPhone mobile phone application and a redesigned website.

”Our goal is to redefine the digital airline space with smart, beautifully designed products that add value to the travel experience and deepen the relationship we have with our customers,” said JetBlue’s Vice President, Customer Connections Michael Stromer in a statement.

JetBlue is the second largest airline at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, with 16 percent of passenger traffic in 2011, trailing Spirit Airlines’ 20 percent share.

With the iPhone app users can make reservations, check-in for flights and get status updates, among other services, according to the New York-based value carrier.

iPhone app cropped screenshot, JetBlue.com/COURTESY

Customers who download the free app can also use it to get virtual postcards of their travel experiences to share with family and friend or post to a social network.

The app also enable users to share itineraries and view in-flight amenities such as snacks, beverages and movie previews.

The revamped website now sports a clean and modern navigation, which makes it easier and faster for customers to find the most relevant travel information for their trip.

“Every aspect of the JetBlue experience is focused on how to make things easier and more enjoyable for the customer, whether it’s booking a ticket online or getting your bags at the end of your journey,” Stromer said.

The iPhone app can be downloaded for free here .

American’s Miami chief to retire, as airline regroups

Posted: 15 Feb 2012 12:47 PM PST

Peter J. Dolara, Courtesy of American Airlines

American Airlines’ veteran chief in South Florida, Peter J. Dolara, will retire June 30 as part of the company’s reorganization in bankruptcy court, American said Wednesday.

Dolara, who developed American’s profitable Latin American and Caribbean hub in Miami, will be succeeded by Art Torno, who now runs the airline’s New York operations. Torno also had led Caribbean and South American operations.

Uruguay-born Dolara has been with American since 1971. He was sales manager for the eastern division based in New York, vice president for the Atlantic/Caribbean region and became senior vice president in 1989. He moved to the Miami area in 1992 and has been honored by Miami groups for making Miami International a global aviation hub.

“When you think of airline industry icons, you think of Peter Dolara. I remember looking up to him when I joined American, and my admiration has only grown over the years," said Tom Horton, chief executive of American’s parent company AMR, in a statement announcing American’s management changes.

“Peter has always put customers first, and we are fortunate that he also had the foresight to groom and develop many leaders, such as Art Torno,” said Horton.

The shift is part of American’s effort to streamline management, as it cuts roughly 13,000 jobs to trim losses and reorganize under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The airline’s senior management will be trimmed from 14 positions to 10, Horton said.

For our earlier article on American’s plan to cut 13,000 employees, please click here.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-15T08:07:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Cool pool seems to float over SoBe’s Ocean Drive

Posted: 15 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

Courtesy of Hotel Breakwater

Have you seen the new glass-sided swimming pool on the second floor of the Hotel Breakwater that seems to float over Ocean Drive on South Beach?

The pool’s 40-foot-long east side is encased in glass, offering an exposed underwater view to Ocean Drive passersby.

The aquarium-style pool is part of a $20 million renovation now complete at the Art Deco property that re-opened last summer. The hotel now features 100 rooms and suites, two restaurants and such chic spaces as the rooftop “Intimissi Lounge.”

Florida residents who present their driver’s license receive a 10 percent discount on rooms.

For more information on Hotel Breakwater, visit breakwatersouthbeach.com or call 305-532-2362.

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-02-14T21:44:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

No love lost at anti-Valentine's Day singles party

Posted: 14 Feb 2012 08:20 AM PST

The folks at Whiskey Tango in downtown Hollywood know the way to your heart: A free drink. And a little voodoo magic aimed at your ex.

The Stupid Cupid Anti-Valentine's Day Singles Party returns tonight at Whiskey Tango, highlighted, of course, by the anti-Cupid dart game. Bring a photo of your ex, which they'll pin to the dartboard. Stick your ex with a dart and get a free drink. This singles mixer begins at 6 p.m., with two-for-one drinks until 8 p.m. The "karaoke dance party" starts at 9 p.m., when women will be encouraged with free drinks until midnight.

Whiskey Tango All American Bar & Grill is at 1903 Hollywood Blvd. Info: whiskeytangofl.com, 954-925-2555.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Talent search: Arsht Center seeks gospel singers

Posted: 14 Feb 2012 07:41 AM PST

J. Moss performs "Rebuild," filled with inspirational words for us all. He performs at the Arsht Center April 29.

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami is looking for young South Florida gospel singers with a talent search that will put the winners onstage for the grand finale of the center's Free Gospel Sundays series in April.

Auditions for the New Gospel Talent Search, open to anyone ages 16 to 25, will take place March 2-3 in the Peacock Foundation Education Center of the Arsht Center. Winners will be selected in the following categories: Best soloist, best quartet and best choir. Participants must register in advance by email at youngartist@arshtcenter.org or by calling 786-468-2450.

The winners will open the final 2011-2012 Free Gospel Sundays concert at 4 p.m. April 29 in the Arsht Center's Knight Concert Hall. Hosted by WPLG anchor Calvin Hughes, the concert will be headlined by Grammy-nominated contemporary gospel artist J Moss (right), with the series' resident ensemble, the Miami Mass Choir. More info: arshtcenter.org.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-14T08:09:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Don Shula tapped as speaker on Crystal Serenity’s May 8 sailing

Posted: 14 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

Legendary football coach and Hall of Famer Don Shula will be among several featured motivational speakers on Crystal Serenity's May 8 transatlantic sailing from New York to Dover, Crystal Cruises announced recently.

The specialty voyage will have a football-focused "Ocean Views" panel discussion and each speaker will share inspiring personal stories from decades on the field as well as hard-won tools for success applicable in any field, the cruise line said.

The other guest speakers include: Larry Csonka, Super Bowl MVP and Hall of Fame All-Pro running back for the Miami Dolphins and New York Giants; Jim Tunney, a 30-year pro game official and "The Dean of NFL Referees;" and Dick Vermeil, former Rose and Super Bowl-winning head coach of UCLA, the Philadelphia Eagles and St. Louis Rams, among other teams.

Crystal Serenity, Crystal Cruises/COURTESY

l"Sports fans know these guys as experts of the pig skin, but they're also quite wise about the thick skin required to face hurdles in anything," Bret Bullock, Crystal's vice president of entertainment said in a statement. "All travelers on board can glean powerful coaching and playing tips for whatever game they're trying to win in life."

The football stalwarts will host individual sessions, then gather for a panel to share opinions on sports and next season's predictions, Crystal said.

The May sailing will also mark Serenity's first all-inclusive experience, which will offer complimentary fine wines, premium spirits and prepaid gratuities and other inclusive amenities.

Now through Feb. 28, "Book Now" cruise prices for Serenity start at $5,055 per person.

For more information on Crystal or to book a cruise, call 888-799-4625, or click here.

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-02-13T21:06:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

Chris Cornell concert tickets on sale Friday

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 11:06 AM PST

Tickets will go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. for Chris Cornell's rescheduled show at the Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theatre. The general admission seats are $35.50 at LiveNation.com, 800-745-3000 and at the Fillmore box office (11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and during show days). The concert by the former Soundgarden and Audioslave frontman is a make-up for a fall tour stop that was postponed due to laryngitis. More info: fillmoremb.com.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Ziggy Marley tour coming to Fillmore

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 09:31 AM PST

Ziggy Marley will bring a tour in support of his politically resonant and Grammy-nominated album "Wild and Free" to the Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theatre on May 9, with tickets on sale Friday at 10 a.m. The new CD from Marley, a five-time Grammy winner, finished behind his brother Stephen's "Revelation Part 1: Root of Life" in the Best Reggae Album category at Sunday night's ceremony. Tickets for the Fillmore show are $32 in advance ($35 day of show) at LiveNation.com, 800-745-3000 and at the Fillmore box office (11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and during show days). More info: fillmoremb.com.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-13T08:08:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

TLC filming TV show at Lauderdale airport; cast sought

Posted: 13 Feb 2012 06:00 AM PST

Courtesy of Southwest Airlines

Fort Lauderdale’s airport is starring in a TV show now being filmed, and travelers on Southwest Airlines who submit personal stories may get selected to appear in the program.

The filming is part of ”On The Fly,” a show for the TLC Channel which explores the experience of modern air travel.

TLC began filming Friday at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, producers said. Crews are on-site through today and then, from Thursday, Feb. 16 through Monday, Feb. 20 to capture the operations and customer stories at Southwest Airlines.

Southwest and TLC are looking for passengers planning a trip for a special occasion or event, or have an exceptional, heartwarming, or life-changing incident that happened during a Southwest Airlines journey.

To submit a story, visit myswatrip.com.

“On The Fly” will premiere this spring. Filming already has been underway at Baltimore Washington International Airport, Denver International Airport, and Chicago Midway International Airport, producers said.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-11T08:05:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

CLIA: Cruise ships to give muster drills before leaving port

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 11:24 AM PST

The Cruise Lines International Association and two other global cruise industry groups said in a joint statement Thursday that effective immediately member lines’ ships will be required to conduct emergency muster drills for embarking passengers before leaving port.

The new policy is the result of the trade groups' review of cruise industry operational safety standards in the wake of the Costa Concordia capsizing off Italy last month, which claimed several lives.

Costa Concordia, Zuma/MCT Courtesy

In the statement CLIA, which represents 26 member lines including Carnival Cruise Lines, Costa Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International said the new policy exceeds the current legal requirement of within 24 hours after departure.

If a passenger should arrive after a muster is completed that person would be promptly given an individual or group safety briefing that meets International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) requirements, said CLIA, which has offices in Fort Lauderdale and Arlington, Va.

Musters are mandatory exercises that are performed on cruise ships to inform passengers about onboard safety protocols, including emergency evacuation procedures.

CLIA said it collaborated with the European Cruise Council and Passenger Shipping Association to put forward the new policy with the support of member cruise lines.

To read more on the new passenger muster policy, click here.

American: Sale fares from $69 one-way through Feb. 16

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 08:38 AM PST

American Airlines has put several cities on sale through Feb. 16, with fares as low as $69 one-way to some destinations.

Travel must be completed by June 6, 2012. Government taxes and fees are included, but some restrictions and extra fees may apply.

Here's a sample of fares from South Florida gateways:

American Airlines 757 aircraft, Courtesy of AA.com

From Fort Lauderdale –Hollywood International Airport sale fares range from $111 to $281 one-way and destinations include Dallas, Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles.

From Palm Beach International: $157-$248 one-way, and sale cities include Phoenix and San Francisco.

From Miami International Airport: Travelers can take advantage of sale fares ranging from $69 to $256 one-way to destinations such as Orlando, Tampa, Baltimore and Hartford.

Further north, travelers departing Orlando International Airport will find sale fares ranging from $69-$332 each way and include cities such as Chicago, New Orleans and Washington D.C.

For full sale terms and conditions, click here.

Airfarwatchdog.com poll

In other related news, a recent Airfarewatchdog.com online poll revealed that 48 percent of travelers no longer feel comfortable booking on American since the airline and its parent company AMR Corp. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last November.

In the poll, the travel website posed the following question:

“American Airlines' bankruptcy isn’t supposed to impact travelers, but would you still feel comfortable booking your next flight with them?”

Poll results were as follows: Yes – 42 percent; No – 48 percent and I don’t have an opinion – 10 percent.

"Although there’s no possibility that American Airlines will stop flying and leave passengers stranded, these poll results clearly show that declaring Chapter 11 comes with a cost," Airfarewatchdog founder George Hobica said.

Hobica said he’s flown on American recently and found things to be same as it was before the Chapter 11 filing.

"The real question is if, or when, American will merge with another airline and what effect that will have on airfares in the future,” Hobica noted.

What say you? Will the bankruptcy deter you from flying on American?

Sup

2012-02-10T17:28:00.001-08:00

Sup

Special garlic menu at D’Angelo Trattoria in Delray Beach

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 04:00 AM PST

D'Angelo Trattoria in Delray Beach helps celebrate the city's annual garlic festival this weekend with a special menu of garlic-inspired dishes tonight through Sunday.

Angelo Elia and executive chef Rickie Piper will be serving: grilled branzini with American broccoli and roasted garlic served with a white wine sauce; Scottadito rack of lamb with sweet garlic mashed potatoes and a garlic-rosemary Amarone sauce; and pizza roasted garlic, clams, Bufala mozzarella with chopped arugula.

All of the restaurants regular Roman menu items will be offered including: roasted veal bone marrow served with casareccio bread, parsley and caper pesto; bucatini de cecco with wild boar ragout and shaved-aged ricotta; and oven roasted milk-fed piglet marinated with fresh herbs, juniper berries and black pepper.

D'Angelo Trattoria, 9 SE 7th Ave., Delray Beach, 561-330-1237.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-10T08:07:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Dine at TGI Fridays through Monday for a chance to win a vacation

Posted: 10 Feb 2012 07:32 AM PST

The weekend is almost here and if your plans call for dining out, here’s an option to consider.

TGI Friday's is giving its reward club members a chance to win a trip for two to anywhere in the world sponsored by Travelocity.

Customers dining at a TGI Friday's restaurant through Monday who are Give Me More Stripes members will be automatically entered into a drawing when they give their card number to the server.

Cocktail drinks, TGI Friday's/COURTESY

Not a member? No problem, just sign up for the free membership here and you'll be automatically entered into the drawing, according to TGI Friday’s.

For more details on travel promotion that ends Feb. 13, click here.

CDC: Celebrity Constellation passengers, crew get stomach illness

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 03:59 PM PST

Several passengers and crew aboard the Celebrity Constellation, which returns to Port Everglades Saturday were hit with an unknown stomach illness, according to a recently released Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report.

Nearly five percent or 95 of 1,992 passengers and 12 of 946 crew members were sick on the cruise that left Jan. 28, according to the CDC.

The sick passengers and crew reported bouts of diarrhea and vomiting, which are common norovirus symptoms, but the exact cause of the outbreak is still unknown.

Celebrity Constellation, Celebrity Cruises/COURTESY

When the Celebrity Cruises ship returns to Fort Lauderdale Feb. 11, two CDC environmental health officers will go aboard to conduct an investigation into the outbreak and the ship’s response.

Another Celebrity ship- Celebrity Silhouette, which returns to New Jersey Friday also had reports of stomach illness outbreaks among its passengers and crew.

It’s been a busy week for stomach illness outbreaks on cruise ships. Read more here.

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-02-09T21:23:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

Weekend preview: We and love and you

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 04:34 AM PST

Here's a taste of the spell-binding "The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr Morris Lessmore," on big screens around South Florida with the other Oscar-nominated shorts beginning Friday.

Is there a more lovable place than South Florida in the next several days?

I mean, Andrea Bocelli will celebrate Valentine's Day here, for cryin' out loud! The same night Bocelli is at BankAtlantic Center, George Hamilton, one of Hollywood's great flirts, opens at the Kravis Center in "La Cage aux Folles," a classic love story (and Prop 8 antidote). Italian baritone Patrizio Buanne (whose press push was filled with bromantic praise from radio icon Larry King) is at the Broward Center Tuesday, too.

But we also have Gladys Knight doing one of pop music's best-selling love songs, "Midnight Train to Georgia," at the Hard Rock Valentine's Day, the B-52s' (right) "Love Shack" and other hits at the Arsht Center Sunday, and Eddie Levert pulling out O'Jays classics such as "Love Train" at the Miramar Cultural Center Friday.

The divine Chaka Khan may uncrate "I Feel for You" Friday night during the four-day Virginia Key Grassroots Festival. Morris Chestnut stars in a night of music and comedy, "Love and Laughter," at the Fillmore Friday, and the hot physicality of "Forever Tango" takes over the Fillmore Saturday and the Kravis Sunday. Heck, we even have Flo and Eddie doing "Happy Together" at Seminole Coconut Creek Casino on Sunday.

But there are other themes at work. One is violence.

TOMATO WARS
The lovably retro Tobacco Road (626 S. Miami Ave., Miami) on Saturday will hold the first of what it hopes will be an annual event, the "Flying Tomato Smash and Bash," highlighted by a free-for-all tomato fight. Taking his cues from the annual La Tomatina Festival in Buñol, Spain (a participant shows off his form at left), bar owner Patrick Gleber will realize a dream when 25,000 surplus tomatoes from his Homestead farm are turned into weapons. Doors open at noon, tomato fight registration opens at 3:30 p.m., 30 minutes before the battle. It's $10 to participate (including a free, post-fight beer), free to watch from a tomato-free distance. Info: Tobacco-road.com, 305-374-1198.

DROPPING THE BOMBSHELL
From the "we are not creative enough to make this stuff up department": Michelle "Bombshell" McGee (right), the heavily tattooed model who helped end the marriage of actress Sandra Bullock and Jesse James, will fight Devon James, the adult-film actress who says she had an affair with Tiger Woods, in a Celebrity Boxing Federation match Saturday night at the Ocean Manor Resort (4040 Galt Ocean Drive, Fort Lauderdale). McGee also will be promoting her new sex tape, "Michelle Bombshell: Caught on Tape." Yes, of course. Brought to you by the same folks who put together last year's Octomom bout at the Ocean Manor, the battle will have McGee and James in oversize gloves for three 60-second rounds. The undercard will feature 10 local models and jello-shot girls duking it out for the South Florida Pillow Fighting Championship and $250. The action starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $20 at the door. Info: Oceanmanor.com.

BROTHERLY LOVE
There's all kinds of love going on with the Avett Brothers album "I and Love and You," not the least of which is that powerful fraternal kind. Seth and Scott Avett, with bassist Bob Crawford, perform 8 p.m. Friday at Sunset Cove Amphitheater (12551 Glades Road, Boca Raton). Tickets: $35, $45.25 via Ticketmaster . Info: 561-488-8069.

BROTHERLY LOVE II
Tickets for Van Halen's April 10 concert at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise go on sale 10 a.m. Saturday for $145.75, $75.75 and $45.75 via Ticketmaster outlets. Van Halen, with David Lee Roth, Eddie, Alex and Eddie's son Wolfgang Van Halen, kick off their North American tour Feb. 18 in Louisville. Other Florida dates are April 14 in Tampa and April 16 in Jacksonville.

CAN BUY ME LOVE
For some, shopping is love. Created through the combined forces of Amanda Linton (Stitch Rock) and Michelle Parparian (Vintage Trunk Show), the Retro Indie Market will gather more than 70 hipster vendors from all over South Florida on Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. at the Boynton Beach Woman's Club (1010 S. Federal Highway, Boynton Beach). New and vintage fashion, jewelry, art, craftiness and household items curated with a discerning eye will be available, along with retro sweets. You know, for fuel. Admission: $5 (12 and younger free; no strollers). Info: Facebook.com/retroindiemarket.

FREE LOVE
Those crazy kids at All Together Now -- youthful fans of the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale -- and the DJ collective Twilight Notes host a free evening of art, music, drinks (cash bar), snacks and ebullience on the museum's pretty Peck Sculpture Terrace Thursday night (Feb. 9). Called Dialect: Movement, the party runs from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Twilight Notes impresario and DJ Adam Foster says his outfit will collaborate with Oceans Deep from Miami to offer a "case study in Afro, Latin, and house rhythms." Guests will be encouraged to participate in local artist Luke Jenkins' "performance intervention" exploring "emotional architecture," which seems perfect in the days leading up to Valentine's Day. Or it may just help you get in touch with your inner DJ. The after-party, featuring DJ sets by Foster and the Twilight Notes DJs, is at the nearby O Lounge at Yolo. The first 50 guests at Dialect get a free drink at the after-party. More info: moafl.org/all-together-now.

FOOD LOVE
The annual Delray Beach Garlic Fest includes not just three days of worshiping the antioxidant-rich bulb, but also chef competitions, kids' activities and lots of music. Headlining on Friday is tattooed crooner Uncle Kracker, with G. Love and Special Sauce (left) featured Saturday. The festival is up through Sunday in and around the Old School Square Cultural Arts Center (51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach). Tickets cost $10 per day. More info: Dbgarlicfest.com, 888-302-5448.

FOOD LOVE II
The St. Demetrios Greek Festival (815 N.E. 15th Ave., Fort Lauderdale) is a great place to get your tzatziki on this weekend. Hours are noon-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5 (12 and younger, military and public-safety personnel free). If parking is a problem, as it will be, head to Searstown for the $1 shuttle. Info: Fortlauderdalegreekfestival.org.

LITERARY LOVE
The "Oscar Nominated Short Films" program is making the rounds and includes all 10 of the animated and live-action short films up for Academy Awards this year. Among them is "The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore," a captivating, 15-minute animated meditation on the love of books, inspired in equal measures by Hurricane Katrina, Buster Keaton and "The Wizard of Oz." The program screens in several South Florida locations, beginning Friday at Cinema Paradiso (503 SE Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale; Fliff.com, 954-525-3456); Mos'Art Theatre (700 Park Ave., Lake Park; Mosarttheatre.com, 561-337-6763), Miami Beach Cinematheque (1130 Washington Ave., Miami Beach; Mbcinema.com; 305-673-4567) and on Saturday at the Cosford Cinema (1111 Memorial Drive, Coral Gables; Cosfordcinema.com, 305- 284-4861).

NOT LOVE POEMS
Poet Campbell McGrath, the uncompromising social observer, FIU professor and recipient of a MacArthur "genius" grant, will be in the B Bar at the Betsy South Beach hotel (1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach ) at 7 p.m. Saturday for a free reading from his much-anticipated new collection of poetry, "In the Kingdom of Sea Monkeys" (Ecco, $14.99). Info: Thebetsyhotel.com, 305-760-6902.

GRAMMY LOVE
The adventurous Miami-based chorale group Seraphic Fire is up for two awards at the Grammy presentations on Sunday and, fittingly, takes on perhaps the greatest piece of music ever written, Johann Sebastian Bach's B Minor Mass, in performances with the Firebird Chamber Orchestra this weekend. On Friday, before he jets off to the Grammys in Los Angeles, Seraphic Fire founder Patrick Dupre Quigley will conduct the ensemble in a sold-out 7:30 p.m. concert at All Saints Episcopal Church (333 Tarpon Drive, Fort Lauderdale). Tickets ($50) are available for concerts 8 p.m. Saturday at First United Methodist Church (536 Coral Way, Coral Gables) and 4 p.m. Sunday at St. Gregory's Episcopal Church (100 NE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton). Info: Seraphicfire.org, 305-285-9060.

LOCAL ART LOVE
You can get a sneak peek at the fifth annual "Abracadabra" exhibition and fundraiser at a reception Friday night at Art and Culture Center of Hollywood (1650 Harrison St.). The show, which opens Saturday, includes 100 donated works from invited artists and ends with a live raffle March 9 in the main gallery. The 6-9 p.m. reception is $10, free for members, donating artists and with the purchase of a raffle ticket. Info: Artandculturecenter.org, 954-921-3274.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Sup

2012-02-09T17:18:00.001-08:00

Sup

Still looking for a Valentine's Day restaurant reservation?

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

You'd better get cracking!

For a tri-county list of restaurants offering Valentine's Day specials, check out our list at SunSentinel.com/Vday.

PHOTO: Lobster shepherd's pie is on the Valentine's Day menu at Max's Grille in Boca Raton.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-09T08:10:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Couples can race to win B Fort Lauderdale wedding
Southwest: Sale fares from $69 one-way through Feb. 16
Oceania Cruises’ new Riviera to feature Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music

Couples can race to win B Fort Lauderdale wedding

Posted: 09 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

Courtesy of B Ocean Fort Lauderdale beach resort

Here’s an unusual way to win a free wedding: Compete in couples’ relay races and games on Fort Lauderdale beach.

The B Ocean Fort Lauderdale resort is sponsoring the “Race to the Altar” for newly engaged couples on Sunday, Feb. 19 at 11 a.m in front of the hotel at Sunrise Boulevard and A1A.

The race features games designed to test a couples’ commitment.

The grand prize is a free wedding at the resort for up to 20 people, to be held anytime in 2012.

Interested couples can register for the race at rsvpmenow.com/rsvpbeta/?id=23359.

Spectators need not register in advance and also can win prizes during the Feb. 19 event.

For more information, visit BOceanFortLauderdale.com or call 888-66BHOTEL.

Southwest: Sale fares from $69 one-way through Feb. 16

Posted: 08 Feb 2012 09:24 AM PST

Southwest Airlines is offering sale fares ranging from $69-$227 one-way from Fort Lauderdale and Orlando to several destinations nationwide.

One-way fares from West Palm Beach range from $69-217.

Sale destinations, which may vary based on departure airport, include New Orleans, La., Chicago, Ill.; Tampa, Fla; and San Diego, Calif.

Southwest plane, Southwest Airlines/COURTESY

The special fares must be purchased by 11:59 p.m. PDT Feb. 16 and are valid for travel Feb. 21 through June 6, 2012. Travel is valid on Tuesdays and Wednesday only and a 10-day advance purchase applies.

Government taxes and fees are included in the price quoted, and fares not valid on some routes.

For more details or to book, click here.

Oceania Cruises’ new Riviera to feature Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music

Posted: 08 Feb 2012 08:15 AM PST

Oceania Cruises newest ship Riviera debuting this May will feature a theatrical production showcasing the music of British composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, the Miami-based cruise line said recently.

The cast of singers and dancers of the production dubbed "Now and Forever –The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber will perform to music from some of Webber's most known shows such as “CATS” and “The Phantom of the Opera”.

Riviera exterior rendering, Oceania Cruises/COURTESY

The 1,250-guest ship will also showcase three other productions: "Up in Flames," featuring the music of Elton John and Billy Joel; "The Dawning of Aquarius," a 1960s review; and "Rock On," a rock and roll love story.

The luxury cruise operator teamed with Fort Lauderdale-based Royal Theatrical Productions to provide the high-quality musical line-up for its newest ship.

"We are thrilled that Riviera guests will enjoy the songbook of Andrew Lloyd Webber," Michael Day, Oceania’s vice president of entertainment said in a statement. "Working with Jean Ann Ryan and her team we are assured of the most talented performers and highest quality choreography, sound and lighting."

The luxury ship will have spacious suites, the largest veranda staterooms at sea, 10 dining venues, numerous bars and lounges and a full-service Canyon Ranch SpaClub, among other amenities, Oceania said.

Riviera while make its maiden voyage May 16 and will spend the summer and fall sailing in the Mediterranean. After that the ship will sail from PortMiami on a series of winter Panama Canal and Caribbean cruises.

Sup

2012-02-08T17:35:00.001-08:00

Sup

Food Lovers' Guide to Miami & Fort Lauderdale at Books & Books

Posted: 08 Feb 2012 04:00 AM PST

Christine Najac will discuss and sign copies of her book "Food Lovers' Guide to
Miami & Fort Lauderdale" (Globe Pequot, $14.95) at 7 p.m. tonight at Books & Books, Bal Harbour Shops.

The book is a city-by-city guide to specialty stores, farmers markets, restaurants, cook classes and what Najac calls landmarks across the region

Christine Najac writes the South Florida Food and Wine blog and is a certified sommelier who teaches wine appreciation at Lynn University in Boca Raton.

PHOTO: The guide

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-02-07T21:18:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

Looks like Madonna tour in Miami this fall
Talib Kweli at Green Room in Fort Lauderdale
Get your pinot on with 'Housewives' Ramona Singer
Humada-humada! Ricky Martin on Glee tonight

Looks like Madonna tour in Miami this fall

Posted: 07 Feb 2012 01:26 PM PST

Madonna has lost none of her spunk or wit, beginning her Super Bowl halftime show with "Vogue." The NFL put a lock on video from the game, so here's a version from back in the day. Brilliant!

Having been suitably stoked by Madonna's fine Super Bowl performance, you may be happy to know that Miami is on the Madonna 2012 World Tour list announced Tuesday by LiveNation. Sort of.

The tour begins May 29 in Tel Aviv, Israel, and includes 26 European cities and 26 North American shows, including New York's Yankee Stadium on Sept. 6.

According to a release from LiveNation's Florida reps, a date in Atlanta on Nov. 17 is followed by a line for Miami, with the date "to be confirmed."

Tickets for concerts in the southeast United States go on sale March 5 at Ticketmaster and LiveNation.com.

Stay tuned.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Talib Kweli at Green Room in Fort Lauderdale

Posted: 07 Feb 2012 06:34 AM PST

"Distractions" from Talib Kweli's upcoming album, "Prisoner of Conscious" on Blacksmith/EMI.

The Green Room (109 SW Second Ave.) in downtown Fort Lauderdale will be serving hip-hop cliches, packaged in brown paper love, when it kicks off its Brown Bag Wednesdays party this week with a DJ set by the influential rapper Talib Kweli. Doors open at 10 p.m. for the 21-and-older show, also featuring work by resident DJ Immortal. The cover is an efficient $10, with the invitation also boasting "$3 gin and juice" and "$3 Colt 45 16 oz. cans." Also upcoming on the weekly series: ArtOfficial (Feb. 15), Mayday! with Ghostwridah (Feb. 22), 9th Wonder and Rhapsody (March 7), and Jim Jones with Roxy Cottontail (March 14). Info: Greenroomlive.com, 954-449-1030.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Get your pinot on with 'Housewives' Ramona Singer

Posted: 07 Feb 2012 05:01 AM PST

Ramona Singer of "The Real Housewives of New York City" is also into wine (perhaps not news to you). Singer will do a meet-and-greet with fans and sign bottles of her eponymous Ramona Pinot Grigio at the Total Wine & More store in Miami's Pinecrest area (8851 S.W. 136th St.; 305-971-7615) on Feb. 18 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Singer's wine ($14.99) is available at Total Wine locations from Miami to West Palm Beach, as well as Target stores and various specialty shops such as Doris Italian Market outlets and Hahnross Wines in West Palm Beach. Info: ramonasinger.com.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Humada-humada! Ricky Martin on Glee tonight

Posted: 07 Feb 2012 03:25 AM PST

Sometime-South Florida resident Ricky Martin makes a special guest appearance on the Fox hit "Glee" Tuesday night (8 p.m. WSVN-Ch. 7, WFLX-Ch. 29), and perhaps he'll be showing a side of himself other than the one fans know and love… No.

Martin visits McKinley High as David Martinez, a k a "The Hottest Spanish Teacher Ever in the History of Ohio," and performs versions of LMFAO's "Sexy and I Know It" and Madonna's "La Isla Bonita." (Both tracks will be available on iTunes Tuesday morning.)

Advance notices on the show adhere to a consistent theme: "You just may need a cold shower after," advises TV Guide. "How do you say humada-humada in Spanish?" asks Entertainment Weekly. "Everything Martin touches has duende," gushes the Hollywood Reporter.

But, wait, there's only more Ricky Martin buzz on the way!

The singer has joined Nicki Minaj as a spokesman for the MAC Viva Glam Global Campaign, with his new MAC Viva Glam lip conditioner going on sale Feb. 15. All of the proceeds will go to the cosmetics giant's MAC AIDS Fund, a global research effort. Info: Maccosmetics.com.

And then there's the Broadway revival of "Evita," starring Martin as Che Guevara. Previews begin March 12, leading up to opening night on April 5. Info: Evitaonbroadway.com.

Fox Television photo

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-07T08:09:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Hotels roll out Leap Year deals to mark Feb. 29, 2012
Alaska Airlines: New Seattle to FLL service starts July 16
Spirit: Book Monday and save $50 off international flights
Survey: Luxury cruisers not deterred by Concordia capsizing

Hotels roll out Leap Year deals to mark Feb. 29, 2012

Posted: 07 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

Courtesy of La Concha resort in San Juan, Puerto Rico

February has an extra day this year, and already, hotels are rolling out deals for the Leap Year occasion Feb. 29.

Consider these offers:

In St. Lucia in the eastern Caribbean, the all-inclusive, couples-only Rendezvous resort offers its “Leap of Faith" package, designed for those looking to "pop the question" in 2012. It can be booked Feb. 29 only and includes a a 35 percent discount on a room, plus sparkling wine and fresh fruit on arrival, a massage for two and a private candle-lit beach dinner. It is valid for travel from March 11 through Sept. 30, with a minimum 4-night stay. Use promotional code "LeapFaith" when booking. Package rates start at $240 per person per night. Call 1-800-544-2883.

In Cambridge, Mass., The Charles Hotel offers its "Look Before You Leap" Flash Sale on Feb. 29. From 2:29 pm until 3:39 pm that day, guests can receive a 29 percent discount on all upcoming reservations when they book online. The offer is valid only for new reservations. Some blackout dates apply. Check www.charleshotel.com

In Puerto Rico in the Caribbean, La Concha resort in San Juan offers its "Leap to the Concha" package. Book between Feb. 15 and Feb. 29, and get discounts including 29 percent off a three-course meal at Voga Restaurant and 29 percent off a Leap Year cocktail at the Lobby Bar. The package is available for a minimum 3-night stay starting at $229 a night. It is valid for travel Feb. 29 until Aug. 1. Use promotional code LPR when booking. Check www.laconcharesort.com

Do you have plans to travel or to book a vacation Feb. 29? Please let us know.

Alaska Airlines: New Seattle to FLL service starts July 16

Posted: 07 Feb 2012 04:54 AM PST

A new airline will be landing soon at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

Alaska Airlines said Tuesday it plans to start new nonstop service between Seattle and Fort Lauderdale July 16.

In a statement Vice President of Marketing Joe Sprague said the airline was excited to start new service to Fort Lauderdale, which it noted is a popular departure point for cruise ship passengers.

Here’s a schedule of the new Seattle-Fort Lauderdale flights:

Start date City pair Departs Arrives Frequency

July 16 Seattle-Fort Lauderdale 10:10 p.m. 6:55 a.m. Daily

July 17 Fort Lauderdale-Seattle 8:10 a.m. 11:25 a.m. Daily

The flights will be operated on Boeing 737-800 aircraft, accommodating 16 passengers in first class and 141 in the main cabin, the airline said.

Spirit of Alaska plane, Alaska Airlines/COURTESY

Alaska Airlines plans to discontinue service between Miami and Seattle with the launch of the new Fort Lauderdale route. It's served the Miami market since 2002.

"Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports are about 27 miles apart, so changing the airport we serve should have little effect on our customers," Sprague said. "By redirecting our flight to the lower-cost Fort Lauderdale airport, we can serve the same geographic area and continue to offer our customers low fares."

To celebrate the new route, the airline is offering introductory fares from $170* each way ((includes taxes and fees) between Seattle and Fort Lauderdale. Tickets must be purchased by Feb. 13 and can be used for travel by Aug. 29, 2012.

Click here to purchase a ticket or call 1-800-ALASKAAIR (1-800-252-7522).

Spirit: Book Monday and save $50 off international flights

Posted: 06 Feb 2012 10:56 AM PST

Spirit Airlines is offering a $50OFF discount code applicable on round-trip international airfare purchased by 11:59 p.m. ET Monday Feb. 6.

The promotional code – 50OFF – is valid for travel Aug. 15 through Sept. 30, and applicable to the airline's international markets including San Juan, St Thomas and Mexico.

Courtesy of Spirit Airlines

Spirit said coupon usage however excludes travel in both directions on all domestic routes, Nassau to/from Fort Lauderdale, Nassau to/from Orlando and Nassau to/from Tampa.

Additional terms, conditions, taxes and fees are applicable.

For complete promotional details and other Spirit sale offers, click here.

Survey: Luxury cruisers not deterred by Concordia capsizing

Posted: 06 Feb 2012 09:13 AM PST

More than two-thirds of cruisers (69 percent) say the recent capsizing of the Costa Concordia off Italy has not affected their future cruise plans, a new Luxury Cruises News study revealed.

The cruise safety report showed past and future cruise vacationers mostly planned to stick to their cruising plans, while making a renewed commitment to safety procedures in the wake of the accident that claimed at least 17 lives.

Costa Concordia, Zuma/MCT Courtesy

When respondents were asked how the capsizing had affected their future cruise plans, they responded as follows:

34% will be more aware of cruise lines' safety procedures before they book
39% indicate that this has no effect whatsoever
1% of survey participants canceled an existing cruise and do not plan to cruise in the future

Survey results are based on 469 email responses from the newsletters' subscribers in North America, the majority coming from the U.S.

The poll was conducted between Jan. 26 and Feb. 1.

The e-newsletter is published by Your Travel Insider, a digital publisher that specializes in travel related email and database marketing.

For the complete survey findings, click here.

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-02-06T21:25:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

New work by bard of SoFla, Campbell McGrath

Posted: 06 Feb 2012 05:06 AM PST

On Saturday night, two nationally prominent porn actresses will take swings at each other in a boxing ring at Fort Lauderdale's Ocean Manor Resort, one of them pushing her newly released sex tape. The bout will follow an undercard of pillow fights involving models and jello-shot servers from around South Florida.

And on that night there also will be a smile on the face of nationally acclaimed poet Campbell McGrath, a source of many rich observations about the delicious absurdity of our region.

McGrath, the FIU professor and recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship and a MacArthur "genius" grant, will be at The Betsy South Beach hotel Saturday to celebrate the publication of his much-anticipated new collection of poetry, "In the Kingdom of Sea Monkeys" (Ecco, $14.99). The reading, free and open to the public, is at 7 p.m. in the hotel's B Bar.

McGrath is the author of 10 books of poetry, filled with both biting satire and tender contemplation of America, including "Spring Comes to Chicago," "Florida Poems" and "Seven Notebooks." With "In the Kingdom of the Sea Monkeys" McGrath examines the culture in works with titles such as "Dick Cheney Speaks to Me in a Dream" and "Shopping for Pomegranates at Wal-Mart on New Year's Day."

In hosting the event, the Betsy South Beach continues its role as an influential incubator of cultural innovation and provocation through its Philanthropy, Arts and Culture Program. The Betsy South Beach is at 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. Info: thebetsyhotel.com, 305-760-6902.

Sun Sentinel photo/Amy Beth Bennett

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-04T08:05:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Allure of the Seas cruiser goes overboard near Mexico

Posted: 03 Feb 2012 11:13 AM PST

A passenger aboard a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship has gone overboard in waters near Mexico, the cruise line’s spokeswoman Cynthia Martinez confirmed Friday.

The ship departed Port Everglades Sunday on a 7-night Caribbean voyage.

The 30-year-old British man reportedly fell from the balcony of his stateroom on Deck 11 of Allure of the Seas – the world’s largest cruise ship.

Authorities are currently conducting a search for the man and the line’s Care Team is providing support to his family, Royal Caribbean said.

Here’s the Miami-based cruise operator’s statement on Friday’s incident:

Allure of the Seas adjacent to Oasis of the Seas, Courtesy of Royal Caribbean Int'l

“On Friday, February 03, 2012, as Allure of the Seas was sailing to Cozumel, Mexico, a guest witnessed another guest going overboard. The ship made multiple public announcements and began a complete search of the ship, in efforts to locate the guest. When the guest did not respond to the pages and was not found onboard, the Captain alerted the local authorities of the situation.

A review of the ship's closed-circuit camera footage observed the 30 year old British guest going over the balcony railing in his stateroom on deck 11. The location of the ship at the time the guest went overboard was marked on the ship's Global Positioning System (GPS) and the U.S. and Mexican Coast Guard were alerted.

Allure of the Seas, along with the Mexican Coast Guard, Mexican Navy and the pilot boat, are currently conducting a search for the missing guest.

Our Care Team is providing support to the guest's family and our thoughts and prayers are with them.

Allure of the Seas is currently sailing a seven-night Caribbean itinerary that departed Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on January 29, with port calls to Labadee, Haiti; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico.”

Earlier this week a 47-year-old Massachusetts woman died aboard Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas ship after slipping and hitting her head on glass stairs in the ship’s disco early Monday. Read more here.

Florida lags in U.S. News list of best U.S. luxury hotels

Posted: 03 Feb 2012 08:00 AM PST

Courtesy of The Setai luxury hotel in Miami Beach

U.S. News & World Report has published its 2012 list of the country’s top luxury hotels, and Florida hotels rank far from the top.

The first Florida property to make the list is The Setai in Miami Beach at No. 47.

Next comes the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples at No. 55 and The Marquesa Hotel in Key West at No. 57.

The publication names as its top U.S. luxury hotel: The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, An Auberge Resort in Blufton, S.C.

For the complete list from digital magazine U.S. News, click here.

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-02-03T21:32:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

Show added for Eddie Vedder at Broward Center

Posted: 03 Feb 2012 10:22 AM PST

Tickets for Eddie Vedder's May 13 solo show at Fort Lauderdale's Broward Center went so fast on Friday that promoters were moved to add a second show on May 14. Tickets ($79.50) are available at BrowardCenter.org and charge by phone at 954-462-0222.

Vedder's shows are part of a 13-city April-May U.S. tour accompanied by Glen Hansard (The Swell Season, The Frames). A second date also has been added at Orlando's Bob Carr Performing Arts Center, where he will perform May 16-17.

Vedder's solo album, "Ukulele Songs," released last summer on Pearl Jam's Monkeywrench Records, is nominated for the best folk album Grammy Award. The Grammys will be handed out Feb. 12.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Bombshell McGee coming to South Florida with boxing gloves and a sex tape

Posted: 03 Feb 2012 08:20 AM PST

An unscientific poll of nearby women indicates that most would rather see Michelle "Bombshell" McGee punched in the face than Devon James.

McGee, of course, is the heavily tattooed model and pop culture phenomenon who helped bust up the marriage of actress Sandra Bullock and Jesse James. Her most recent public appearance in South Florida, a party called "Bad Girls' Night Out" scheduled for Liv nightclub in the Fontainebleau Hotel last April, was canceled after some insensitive responses to outcry over modeling photos showing her in Nazi garb.

James is merely an adult-film actress on the list of women who claim an affair with Tiger Woods.

But what if you could see both of them punched in the face? Now we're talking.

McGee and James will square off on Feb. 11 at the Ocean Manor Resort in Fort Lauderdale on the latest card created by the Celebrity Boxing Federation. Last summer the Philadephia-based outfit held a fight at the Ocean Manor between local bartender Cassandra"Patience" Andersen and Nadya Suleman, a k a the Octomom.

Wearing over-sized boxing gloves, McGee and James will fight three 60-second rounds for the crown of Female Lightweight Celebrity Boxing Champion. Yes, there is a championship belt. The undercard will feature 10 local models and jello-shot girls duking it out for the South Florida Pillow Fighting Championship and $250.

"It's going to be a great event. Lots of fun. Lots of beautiful girls," said CBF founder Damon Feldman, who said he originally hooked up with McGee shortly after the James-Bullock scandal broke. Feldman first put her in the ring with porn star Gina Lynn last May, and has done several other fights with her since. "She's tough," Feldman said.

While McGee may be anxious to wear the championship belt, the fight also helps her publicize the much anticipated release of her sex tape, which comes out Tuesday. (What, you didn't know?) Titled "Michelle Bombshell: Caught on Tape," the two-disc set is being released by Red Light District, a company whose product line includes films devoted to Screech from "Saved by the Bell" and, in separate compliations, Amy Fisher and Joey Buttafucco.

The action starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $20 at the door. The Ocean Manor is at 4040 Galt Ocean Drive. Info: oceanmanor.com.

Photo/Celebrity Boxing Federation, courtesy

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Sup

2012-02-03T17:31:00.001-08:00

Sup

Free yogurt Monday at Yogurtland

Posted: 03 Feb 2012 04:00 AM PST

Yogurtland celebrates National Yogurt Day on Monday by offering free frozen yogurt to everyone who visits any of the more than 160 locations across the country. Yogurtland will give away 5-ounce cups 4-7 p.m. in each participating location.

For a complete list of locations, log on to Yogurt-Land.com.

There are South Florida locations in Hallandale Beach, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Weston.
Doral, Pinecrest and Kendall.

PHOTO: Free yogurt on Feb. 6.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-03T08:08:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

More Valentine’s hotel deals in New Orleans, beyond
MIA welcomes inaugural LAN Colombia Bogota flight
Crystal Cruises to launch evening bistro on ships starting April

More Valentine’s hotel deals in New Orleans, beyond

Posted: 03 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

Courtesy of The Palms Hotel & Spa in Miami Beach

Here’s an update to our list of Valentine’s Day hotel deals.

In New Orleans, the Hotel Monteleone has packages from $339 a night with a two-night minimum. They include champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries on arriva,l a three-course romantic dinner including a bottle of wine at Amaud's restaurant, breakfast at Brennan's, plus Café du Monde café au lait and beignets.

Windsor Court has packages from $399 including a dozen roses and chocolate covered strawberries upon arrival and four-course dinner at The Grill Room with sparkling wine.

Hyatt Regency New Orleans has a package from $239 a night. It includes live jazz at the recently opened Hyatt Regency with a dessert buffet for two, two glasses of champagne and full breakfast the next morning.

In Miami Beach, The Palms Hotel & Spa offers a two-night package starting from $555. It includes two-nights in an oceanfront king room, bottle of champagne upon arrival, daily breakfast for two at Essensia Restaurant, a couples massage at The Palms Aveda Spa, valet parking, and late checkout. The couple also receives matching Palms' bathrobes. The Perfect Pair package must be booked by Feb. 9 and is valid for arrivals between Feb. 12 and Feb. 16. Visit www.thepalmshotel.com.

For our earlier posts on Valentine’s Day hotel deals, click here.

MIA welcomes inaugural LAN Colombia Bogota flight

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 02:06 PM PST

Miami International Airport welcomed LAN Colombia's inaugural flight from Bogota, Colombia Wednesday.

The new flight will operate non-stop four times a week between the cities, airport officials said in a release today.

The Airbus A320 aircraft was greeted with a water cannon salute – a typical welcome given to new carriers and special launch flights.

LAN Colombia A320, Miami-Dade Aviation Department/COURTESY

LAN Colombia is the newest addition to the LAN group of airlines that serve the Miami airport. Others include LAN Chile, LAN Ecuador and LAN Peru.

The airline – formerly Aires - began operations as LAN Colombia in Dec. 5, 2011. It’s the second largest airline in Colombia with 23 percent of market share, according to company statement Wednesday about the new service.

LAN Colombia was formed from the assets of Aires

MIA is the only U.S. airport with service by all five carriers within the LAN group, officials said Thursday.

For more information on LAN Colombia, click here.

Crystal Cruises to launch evening bistro on ships starting April

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 08:18 AM PST

Crystal Cruises plans to launch an evening bistro service on its two ship-fleet by mid-year, the Los Angeles-based luxury cruise operator said recently.

The opening hours of its popular daytime eatery The Bistro, will be extended to offer a complimentary menu selection of "small bits, desserts and midnight snacks plus premium wines and flavored coffees, Crystal said in a statement.

"In traditional Crystal luxury fashion, our evening Bistro brings aboard the elegance and international panache of a European café experience—a central place to meet, people-watch, and enjoy a glass of wine or espresso and a snack," Vice President Food and Beverage Operations Toni Neumeister said.

Crystal Symphony, Courtesy of Crystal Cruises

The new evening time menu, which will run from 6 p.m. to midnight, will debut Crystal Symphony in April and on Crystal Serenity in June just after the ships become all-inclusive.

Crystal ships typically sail from the Port of Miami (now called PortMiami) on Caribbean itineraries.

For more on the new evening bistro offering, click here.

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-02-02T21:17:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

Weekend preview: Beers and grrls, grrls, grrls!

Posted: 01 Feb 2012 03:55 PM PST

Here's what a night with the Gold Coast Derby Grrls offers. Catch 'em Saturday in Wellington.

The beloved Fort Lauderdale beach boozeria known as the Treasure Trove has been saved after owner Jeff Rudd walked away from a months-long chicken fight with his landlord holding a lease that guarantees his doors will be open for at least three more years.

Rudd says the agreement on a new lease, which was set to expire Wednesday, was struck at the 11th hour.

"We all win," he says, an edge in his voice suggesting his landlord may not be among the "we."

For weeks leading up to the anticipated closing, it was routine for crowds of mourners to flow into the parking lot in front of the "Internationally World Famous Treasure Trove," as it was lovingly called by regulars, who included politicos and beach bums alike. Rudd, a Fort Lauderdale native, has run the breezy, open-air bar for 17 years.

"I'm just glad I get to keep going," he says.

Cynics who think the rumored closing was all an elaborate marketing ploy should consider the bare spots on the walls, once home to irreplaceable bric-a-brac and memories that Rudd gave away (some walked away) as the clock ticked down. And then, there are the angry hieroglyphics customers carved into the once-gorgeous mahogany border around the bar.

Rudd says that under the circumstances, he's OK with the souvenirs that went missing. "No one got the jewfish," he said with some relief of the stuffed prize caught by Rudd's grandmother.

He says he'll try to fix the bar and hang more stuff on the walls, and he's already at work planning a "grand reopening party" in the next couple of weeks. As if we needed another reason to fill the parking lot.

The Treasure Trove is at 2933 S.E. Fifth St. Info: 954-522-8385.

HELL ON WHEELS
South Florida's favorite hot wheels, the Broward-based Gold Coast Derby Grrls, roll up to Palm Beach County for the first time Saturday night for a Women's Flat Track Derby Association match against Tucson Roller Derby. The match takes place at Skate Zone (8125 Lake Worth Road, Wellington) and includes hot food, a stocked bar and music from DJ George Van Orsdel. Tickets cost $10 and are free for kids younger than 12. As always, bring your own chair or cushion, and "suicide seats" on the edge of the action are for those 18 or older (crash pads can be rented for $5). The afterparty, a notoriously raucous affair, is at the Brass Monkey Tavern (7781 Lake Worth Road; 561-968-9559). More info: Goldcoastderbygrrls.com.

DRINK UP
Erwin Wurm's "Drinking Sculptures (right)," from the "Beauty Business" exhibit will be activated with classic spirits when the Bass Museum of Art (2100 Collins, Miami Beach) reboots its monthly Beats After Sunset series Friday night. The party, meant to introduce a new host committee and afterparty sponsor (Chalk Ping Pong and Billiards Lounge), runs from 8 to 11 p.m., and features sounds by DJ Josef K and complimentary Little Black Dress vodka, Herradura tequila cocktails and Perrier water. Admission: $8. Info: Bassmuseum.org or 305-673-7530.

BEER JUDGES NEEDED
Whole Foods Market in Coral Springs (810 University Drive) is looking for judges for the Beer-Offs V, beginning 2 p.m. Saturday. The fifth-annual event will gather 50 intrepid beer "experts" to judge beers in a playoff format. The beers are: Crispin Original Hard Apple Cider, Fox Barrel Pear Cider, Swamp Ape IPA, Lagunitas IPA, Redbridge, New Planet Off Grid Pale Ale, Spaten Premium Lager and Palm Amber Beer. Registration (at the customer service desk and by phone) is open to the first 50 customers 21 and older. Info: 954-753-8000. Donations of nonperishable foods for Feeding South Florida will be accepted.

… OR BREW IT YOURSELF
The home-brew supply store is open at the Funky Buddha Lounge and Brewery (2621 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton), and they are offering beer-brewing classes 7 p.m. Thursdays and 11 a.m. Sundays. Info: Thefunkybuddha.com or 561-368-4643.

FOOD TRUCKS AND BIKES
The monthly Miami Food Trucks rally returns to the Hooter's parking lot at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood Thursday night beginning at 5:30 p.m. The rally, which this time includes a Bike Night theme courtesy of Peterson's Harley-Davidson of Miami, will have a free 8 p.m. movie screening of the star-studded rom-com "Valentine's Day." The food truck lineup will feature the debut of Cheeseburger Baby from South Beach, as well as: Big Belly's Deli, Big Kahuna, Boba Station, Che Grill, Clarabelle's Cupcakes, Coolhaus, Daddy's Grill, Fireman Derek's World Famous Pies, The Flyer Saucer, Grill Master Café, Guiseppe's Italian Sausage, Jefe's Original Fish Taco & Burgers, Latin Burger & Taco, Mangia Mia Italian Kitchen, Mr. Good Stuff, Ms. Cheezious, Nana's Stromboli, Pincho Factory, The Rolling Stove, Slow Food Truck, Sugar Rush, Taco Fresh and Yum-Mi. Info: miamifoodtrucks.com.

CHRIS & WYCLEF
Reggae-influenced Miami singer-songwriter Chris Cab will be joined by Wyclef Jean (left), who produced his single "Put In Work," Thursday night at The Stage (170 N.E. 38th St., Miami). Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission: $10 guys, free for women. Info: thestagemiami.com, 305-576-9577.

MORE SCARLETT
The much-buzzed-about Miami City Ballet-commissioned work from celebrated young British choreographer Liam Scarlett moves to the Broward Center (201 S.W. Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale) for performances Friday through Sunday. "Viscera" will highlight MCB's Program II, along with Jerome Robbins' "In the Night" and Balanchine's "Ballet Imperial." Tickets: $19 to $169. Info: Browardcenter.org, 954-462-0222, 877-929-7010.

LEADING WITH HIS CHIN
"Tonight Show" host Jay Leno (left) will riff on topics of the day when he brings his stand-up show back to Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (1 Seminole Way, Hollywood) on March 8 at 8 p.m. Going on sale at noon Friday, tickets are $129, $104, $79 and $54 at all Ticketmaster outlets, or charge by phone at 800-745-3000.

COMEDY FEST TICKETS
Tickets go on sale 10 a.m. Friday for the South Beach Comedy Festival, featuring the likes of Aziz Ansari of TV's "Parks and Recreation," actor-rapper Donald Glover of NBC's "Community," Lewis Black (right), Bill Bellamy, Hannibal Buress, Amy Schumer, Rob Delaney and Jeff Ross Feb. 29 to March 3. Get tickets (prices vary by performer) at Southbeachcomedyfestival.com/tickets, Livenation.com, the Fillmore box office and all Ticketmaster outlets (charge by phone: 800-745-3000).

JOSEPHINE BAKER EROTICISM
The World Erotic Art Museum (1205 Washington Ave., Miami Beach) this week brought back the exhibit of films, posters and art devoted to Josephine Baker, which will be up through Feb. 29. The museum is open daily to those 18 and older. Admission: $15. Info: Weam.org or 305-532-9336.

HE STILL PLAYS A MEAN PINBALL
February has a diverse slate of Wallcast films to be screened for free each Wednesday on the 7,000-square-foot space on the side of the New World Center (500 17th St., Miami Beach). This coming week has the visually arresting rock opera "Tommy," followed by "From Russia With Love" (Feb. 15), "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" (Feb. 22) and "Spaceballs" (Feb. 29). Showtimes are 8 p.m. Info: newworldcenter.com.

OTHER VOICES, OTHER ROOMS
Here's where we'd be if we could be everywhere in the next week:
Willie Nelson (right) brings a bit of Luckenbach to Fort Lauderdale's Broward Center 8 p.m. Tuesday (Browardcenter.org) … Our friend Bill Hirschman has nice things to say about Florida Grand Opera's "Rigoletto" at the Arsht Center (Fgo.org) … The Civil Wars hit the Culture Room Saturday (Cultureroom.net) … Kid Sister is joined by Riff Raff and Mike Deuce at Grand Central in Miami Saturday (Grandcentralmiami.com) … The free SunTrust Jazz Brunch enlivens the New River in Fort Lauderdale 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday (954-828-5363) … Tool brings its sledgehammer rock to the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise Monday (ticketmaster.com) … Sophie Milman sultries up the Broward Center's Amaturo Wednesday night (954-462-0222) … Jeff Foxworthy brings blue-collar yucks to the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood Thursday night (Hardrocklivehollywoodfl.com).

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Sup

2012-02-02T17:09:00.001-08:00

Sup

Mark Militello cooks with Tony Sindaco at Sea pop-up dinner

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 09:32 AM PST

Fans of chef Mark Militello will be happy to know that he's been consulting for a new Coconut Creek restaurant called Shaka Grill. Look for an opening soon.

Meantime, Tony Sindaco of Sea (235 Commercial Blvd., Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, 954-533-2580) is hosting Militello at what he hopes will be the first of a series of pop-up dinners at his restaurant.

"We're going to do it on Wednesday, Feb. 15," says Sindaco. "The real diners don't go out on Valentine's Day. Maybe they will on the 15th."

Sindaco and Militello will switch off six courses. Among them: goat cheese with poached peaches; artisan salumi and foie gras; Sindaco's crab Charlotte which he now calls Original Crab en Cucumber; braised veal cannelloni with wild mushrooms and surf and turf of braised ox tail and seared tuna.

This will sell out quickly, but Sindaco says he'll consider adding a second seating. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m. It's $95 per person, which includes wine, plus tax and tip.

Call to reserve.

PHOTO: Sindaco (left) and Militello (Candace West)

At Konefood, everything comes in a cone

Posted: 02 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

It's called Konefood, a new concept in North Miami Beach where everything is served in cones.

The six-inch cones are baked in-house an then filled with everything from pizza to scrambled eggs.

The concept comes from Italy, but has been altered to suit American palates.

The Aloha Kona ($4.99) features sweet ham, pineapple, tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella. The Mexikon ($5.99) is filled with chipotle chicken, corn salsa, queso fresco and house-made crema. A typical dessert cone is the Kone De Amore ($4.99), strawberries, dark chocolate covered pomegranate and bananas topped with skim milk hot chocolate and creme fraiche.

Check out Konefood's Web site for a video.

The restaurant is at 387 NE 167 St., North Miami Beach, 305-705-4485.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-02T08:07:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

American Airlines announces plan to cut 13,000 jobs

Posted: 01 Feb 2012 01:18 PM PST

American Airlines 757 aircraft, Courtesy of AA.com

American Airlines’ parent company AMR Corp. said Wednesday it plans to cut 13,000 jobs as part of its reorganization in bankruptcy court.

That total includes from:

Fleet Service & Other Transport Workers Union members – Approximately 4,200

Flight Attendants – Approximately 2,300

Management/Support Staff – Approximately 1,400

Mechanics and Related – Approximately 4,600

Pilots – Approximately 400

The company said it aims to slash costs by about 20 percent aross all employee groups. Savings may also come from changes in pension plans and other benefits.

American said it will seek bankruptcy court approval to end its defined-benefit pension plans. Instead it aims to switch to 401(k) pension plans that do not provide a defined amount each month.

American Airlines employs about 9,000 people in South Florida, many at the company’s Latin American and Caribbean hub in Miami. The company’s Latin American-Caribbean operations are profitable and are expected to be less affected by job cuts than other areas, such its headquarters operations in Texas, aviation analysts have said.

We will be updating information on bankruptcy plans by American and AMR Corp.

The company also will offer information on its restructuring s at a new site it started, www.RestructuringAMR.com.

For a story on American’s pension plan changes that ran in Wednesday’s SunSentinel, click here.

United rolls out Economy Plus seating on long-haul overseas flights

Posted: 01 Feb 2012 09:06 AM PST

Main cabin fliers on all United Airlines long-haul international Boeing 757-200 flights now have the option to upgrade to Economy Plus seats at an extra charge that offer six inches of extra legroom, the airline said this week.

Some frequent fliers with elite or premier status may have complimentary access to these extra leg room seats, while others may purchase them on United.com, Continental.com, through a reservations agent or at the airport, United said.

United Airlines plane, United Airlines/COURTESY

The cost to upgrade to Economy Plus seating ranges from $9 to $163 per flight per person for a one-time option, according to United.com. An annual option is $425.

United’s Economy Plus product was first launched in 1999 and today more than 500 of its aircraft offer the special seat category.

In a statement United said it’s offered year-round Boeing 757 service in long-haul international markets where demand didnt support the use of a larger aircraft, and that allowed it to offer multiple daily flights between larger markets.

“Customers have long enjoyed the convenience. With Economy Plus, they now have a new choice in economy-cabin comfort as well,” Jim Compton, United’s executive vice president and chief revenue officer, in the statement.

The 41 reconfigured Boeing 757s now have 45 Economy Plus seats, 108 in Economy and another 16 flat-bed seats in BusinessFirst, United said.

Routes operated with the Boeing 757s include: New York/Newark to Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid and London; and between Washington/Dulles to Amsterdam and Paris.

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-02-01T21:10:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

Super Bowl parties in South Florida: Let's talk

Posted: 01 Feb 2012 05:22 AM PST

"If you want to talk, you always have the guys at the diner. You don't need a girl if you wanna talk." –– Eddie Simmons (played by Steve Guttenberg) in "Diner"

This weekend is about men at their most passionate. And their most clueless. Same thing, usually.

Long before the term "bromance" was coined, Barry Levinson's autobiographical dramedy "Diner" provided an evocative drive-by of the intersection of the male passion for football and that other kind of passion. As it happens, the film, Oscar nominated for its screenplay, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

With a cast including Steve Guttenberg, Paul Reiser, Kevin Bacon, Daniel Stern, Tim Daly, Ellen Barkin and a breakout performance by Miami Beach High alum Mickey Rourke, "Diner" follows a group of 20-something guys being dragged into adulthood in 1959 Baltimore. The most prominent thread of the story involves the imminent marriage of Guttenberg's character, Eddie –– that is, if his fiancee can pass a trivia quiz on the history of football and Eddie's beloved Baltimore Colts. No joke.

None of the characters seems to have a basic grasp on the needs of the opposite sex, an idea that hangs thick in the greasy air of the buddies' favorite late-night refuge, where debates over Sinatra vs. Mathis, the Colts and female frustrations rage until sunrise. Little could Eddie have known in 1959 that 25 years later his Colts would break the city's heart and move, in the middle of the night, to Indianapolis.

On Sunday, many men will gather ostensibly to watch football's marquee game, the Super Bowl, being played in Indianapolis. But, between beers and wings, we also get together to compare notes on things like Vedder vs. Van Halen, the Heat and, especially with Valentine's Day just ahead, girl trouble real and imagined.

We may look like we're drowning ourselves in testosterone and beer buckets, but there may be
something more existential at work. We all still wonder, as Kevin Bacon's Fenwick does in "Diner": "Do you ever get the feeling that there's something going on that we don't know about?"

Here's what we do know about when it comes to Super Bowl XLVI parties:

THE MAXIM PARTY
Vibe Ultra Music Lounge (301 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale) is again the setting of Maxim magazine's Big Game Party on Friday night, hosted by current Maxim Hometown Hottie Dominique Storelli, of Fort Lauderdale (right). If you made last year's event (video above), you know what a sick night this will be. DJ extraordinaire Adam Foster will be joined by DJ Obscene, Ricky Fatts and the Duffle Bag Divas, the Maxim-quality, Los Angeles-based DJ twins. The party is open to the public and runs from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. VIP admission is $100 pre-sale, $150 at the door, and gets you all-access with open bar. For tickets, email reservations@vibelasolas.com. More info: Vibelasolas.com, 954-713-7313.

FREE TO PAHK THE CAH
When you have New York playing New England, the whole thing can take on the refined air of Princeton vs. Harvard, if you want to play it that way. The Atlantic Resort & Spa (601 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale) will show the game on a 7.5-by-10-foot projection screen on the fifth-floor Ocean Terrace Bar & Café. Manhattan clam chowder can be chased with bottles of Brooklyn Lager, and the café's ode to Buzzy's roast beef sandwich may be paired with a bucket of Sam Adams. Rueben sandwiches, warm pretzels and hotdogs, baked stuffed cherrystones, fried codfish sliders, wings and nachos round out the menu. Themed drink specials of course include Long Island Iced Teas and Cape Codders. Tickets are $35 and include the buffet and complimentary valet parking. Ticket info: 954-567-8066.

KEGGER AT THE GANSEVOORT
If Lee Evans doesn't let go of that ball in the end zone, Gisele Bundchen and Tom Brady might have felt right at home watching the Ravens and Giants at The Rooftop at the Gansevoort Miami Beach (2377 Collins Ave.). Beginning at 3 p.m. Sunday, the Super Bowl viewing takes place inside private rooftop cabanas, each equipped with TV. For $800 you get a cabana with room for 10 to 12 people, a bottle of vodka, two Heineken mini kegs and three appetizers. Oh, and Heineken models will be present. In case the game gets out of hand. Info: Togrp.com, 305-604-6829.

MORE HOTTIES
Il Bacio Restaurant & Lounge (29 SE Second Ave., Delray Beach) takes a back seat to no hottie, with its third annual Super Bowl party on Sunday hosted by former Maxim Hometown Hottie Tami Donaldson and Boca Raton school teacher-turned-Playboy sensation Erica Chevillar (right). But there's also the game, which you can watch on 100-inch screens in front of cinema-style seating. Admission is free, with a $20 all-you-can-eat buffet. For roped-off, front-row VIP sofa seating, call Steven at 561-376-3374. Info: Ilbacioofdelray.com, 561-865-7785.

VERY BIG, VERY FREE
Cinema Paradiso (503 SE Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale), the cozy setting that typically hosts the work of Truffaut and Almodovar offers its 30-foot, high-definition screen to Umenyiora and Gronkowski for a Super Bowl watch party on Sunday beginning at 4 p.m. You'll find food, games and beer specials, as well as another battle for supremacy: New England clam chowder vs. Manhattan clam chowder. Admission is free. Info: Fliff.com, 954-525-3456.

SUPER BOWL CHOW
The Super Bowl prix fixe menu at Philippe by Philippe Chow in Boca Raton –– 14 words I never thought I'd see in consecutive order –– will be served in the chic restaurant's private wine room, equipped with a projector-screen TV. Really. The three-course meal, including Philippe's signature Lobster Rolls and Beijing-style Chicken, will be $39. Philippe is at 200 E. Palmetto Park Road. Reservations: Philppechow.com, 561-393-4666.

BEER YOU, BEER ME
At the World of Beer (101 N. Clematis St., West Palm Beach), buy a $1 raffle ticket and you're eligible to win a free six-pack every 15 minutes (with the money going to the Wheels for Kids wheelchair charity). They'll have discounts on pizza and a quarters board game, plus everyone in a Giants jersey gets a free beer shot when the Giants score. They'll probably do the same for fans in Pats gear if New England scores. Info: Clematis.wobusa.com, 561-833-3375.

LOOK BEFORE YOU GRONK
Boston Johnny's (2120 N. Dixie Highway, Hollywood) is offering a free buffet of sausage with peppers and onions, chicken-broccoli ziti, mussels marinara, pasta primavera and Boston baked beans, hot dogs and potato salad. Plus free jello shots whenever New England scores. Please do not gronk on my shoes! Info: 954-923-7650.

HOME OF THE GIANTS
Monty's Sunset at the Miami Beach Marina (300 Alton Road) has a sweet location on the water and a new name on Sunday: "Home of the Giants." Beginning at 2 p.m. the poolside party includes an array of food and drink specials (including $20 bottomless mimosas for ladies with an entrée), 20 TVs, a full service tiki bar and music from local faves The Big Bounce, along with DJ Jeremias Paez. Info: Montyssobe.com, 305-672-1148.

THEY'VE GOT YOUR NUMBER
Your neighborhood Duffy's will offer $11 domestic beer buckets ($15 premium) and the usual two-for-one happy hour, starting at 4 p.m., but at the North Miami Beach location (3969 N.E. 163rd St.) the most important number is 200. The massive waterside sports bar has 200 TVs. You can win your own 50-incher in a contest on the Duffy's Facebook page, but hurry, the contest ends Wednesday. Info: DuffysMVP.com, 305-760-2124.

GOING DOWNTOWN
The venerable Downtowner Saloon (10 S. New River Drive E., Fort Lauderdale) will have a big screen set up outside on the river, plus $10 buckets ($15 imports), $2 tacos and halftime raffles for DT gift certificates, including $100 to the winner. Info: Downtownersaloon.com, 954-463-9800.

BOTTOMS UP
The Clevelander (1020 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach) is always good for spectacle, so a game that may go down as one of the best Super Bowls in history will have to compete for attention with the Cleve Dancers, topless model body-painting and people under the influence of two-for-$7 Jager shots among many other drink specials. But there are 40 HD screens and a jumbo projection screen, so it's your own fault if you are looking the wrong way during the big play. Info: TheClevelander.com, 786-276-5325.

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK
Grease Burger Bar (213 Clematis, West Palm Beach) makes a great burger, so we like $1.50 sliders and 50-cent wings beginning at 6 p.m. Plus $12 domestic buckets ($16 for imports). And, yes, jello shots for the house anytime anyone scores. For our official do-it-yourself sobriety test, say BenJarvus Green-Ellis three times fast! Info: Greasewpb.com, 561-651-1075.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-02-01T08:05:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Best Western: Stay 3 times, get 1 free night thru June
Spirit adds $2 fee to web fares in response to new DOT rules
Germany’s Sixt car rental company expands in Florida

Best Western: Stay 3 times, get 1 free night thru June

Posted: 01 Feb 2012 07:00 AM PST

Courtesy of Best Western Plus Oakland Park Inn

The Best Western hotel chain is offering a promotion, “Stay 3, Stay Free," with a chance for a free night’s stay before July.

The promotion lets members of Best Western’s free rewards program who stay three times between Feb. 6 and April 8 get a voucher for a free night’s stay through June 30.

To register for Best Western Rewards, click here.

To register for the promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/spring.

Spirit adds $2 fee to web fares in response to new DOT rules

Posted: 31 Jan 2012 08:49 AM PST

Effective today Spirit Airlines is adding a $2 DOTUC one-way fee to tickets purchased on its website, which it says is to cover "the unintended consequences of government regulations," that recently took effect.

Specifically the new fee is a response to the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) rule that now requires airlines to hold fares for 24 hours after booking without penalty, Spirit said in a statement.

The Miramar-based no frills carrier called the new rule "misguided and expensive" and said the DOT has ignored the costs to consumers of its supposedly consumer-friendly rule.

Spirit Airbus 319, Courtesy of Spirit Airlines

"People love the idea of not having to commit to a reservation, but this regulation, like most, imposes costs on consumers," Spirit’s President and Chief Executive Officer Ben Baldanza said. "Wouldn't we all like to eat all we want and not get fat? Regulators like to try to sell the idea of this rule, but have ignored the cost impact to consumers. You simply can't eat all you want without consequences."

Spirit said the rule forces it to pull seats from inventory for persons who may or may not finalize a ticket purchase, which prevents it from selling them to persons who definitely want to book a reservation. This results in unfilled seats.

To recoup these losses, it must spread the costs over fewer customers, which raises the cost for all passengers, Spirit added.

On Tuesday Spirit spokeswoman Misty Pinson said the new fee will not apply to tickets purchased at the airline’s airport counter.

Last summer Spirit filed a lawsuit to challenge this new rule and others the DOT has passed as part of its efforts to provide air travelers with more protections.

Until recently Spirit had regularly touted fares as low as $9 one-way, but those cheap fares have since disappeared after DOT rules requiring airlines to include all taxes and mandatory fees in the airfare quoted took effect Jan. 26.

Read more about Spirit's campaign against the new DOT rules here.

Germany’s Sixt car rental company expands in Florida

Posted: 31 Jan 2012 08:00 AM PST

Courtesy of Sixt Rent A Car

Germany’s veteran car rental company Sixt is expanding in Florida.

Sixt now has rent-a-car operations at international airports in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, with one-way rentals available between the three airports It provides an airport shuttle to and from their branches.

Sixt also is starting up soon at Palm Beach International Airport, the company said.

The Sixt fleet in Florida includes new model vehicles from Chevrolet, Ford, Infinity, Mustang, Nissan,Toyota, Volkswagen, Mini Cooper, Mercedes-Benz and BMW.

For more on Germany’s Sixt, which also operates in Italy, Spain, France and other European nations, visit www.sixt.com. Discount coupons are available on their Web site.

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-01-31T21:40:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

Van Halen ticket update ... and the 'Tattoo' video

Posted: 31 Jan 2012 07:25 AM PST

No, you haven't missed the on-sale date for tickets to Van Halen's tour stop at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise on April 10. They go on sale Feb. 11 at 10 a.m. Prices have yet to be released, but here's the ballpark: Tickets for the April 12 show at Orlando's Amway Center are $47.50-$125.25 at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets for both shows go on sale at the same time.

To recap, Van Halen, with David Lee Roth out front of Eddie, Alex and Eddie's son Wolfgang Van Halen, will kick off their North American tour Feb. 18 in Louisville. Other Florida dates are April 14 in Tampa and April 16 in Jacksonville.

The classic R&B party band Kool & The Gang will be the opening act for select shows.

Van Halen also will release their new Interscope Records album, "A Different Kind of Truth," on Feb. 7. The album is Van Halen's first original studio release with singer David Lee Roth since the band's multiplatinum classic "1984." "Tattoo" (above) is the first single. Gotta admit, they sound as if they can still fill an arena with swagger like few other bands.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Aziz Ansari, Lewis Black at SoBe Comedy Fest

Posted: 31 Jan 2012 05:16 AM PST

Aziz Ansari (right) of TV's "Parks and Recreation," actor-rapper Donald Glover of NBC's "Community" and the delightfully cranky Lewis Black will be among the headliners of the seventh annual South Beach Comedy Festival Feb. 29-March 3.

The SBCF lineup also includes Hannibal Buress, Amy Schumer, Rob Delaney and Jeff Ross, plus Bill Bellamy headlining Shaquille O'Neal's All Star Comedy Jam with Gary Owen, Capone, Corey Halcomb and DJ Spinderella. Performances will be at the Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theatre (1700 Washington, Miami Beach), Backstage at the Fillmore and the Colony Theatre (1040 Lincoln Road).

Tickets go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. Friday at Southbeachcomedyfestival.com/tickets, Livenation.com, the Fillmore box office and all Ticketmaster outlets (charge by phone: 800-745-3000). You also can get tickets via a special pre-sale from 10 a.m. Wednesday to 10 p.m. Thursday on the festival website. Use pre-sale code LOL.

Think you've got what it takes? Show 'em your stuff, wiseguy! The traditional SBCF Decomedian Contest returns with an open call looking for South Florida's funniest comedian.

Hosted by the Improv Mayfair (3390 Mary St., No. 182, Coconut Grove) and the wry wits at "Deco Drive," the Decomedian Contest is Feb. 13 from 2 to 6 p.m. Bring three minutes of your best material, and open call is for contestants only.

The finals are Feb. 15, when you should pack the room with as many friends as you can, or enemies, if you think they'll laugh at your jokes. "Deco Drive" will film the finals and air clips for viewers to vote on. The winner will be announced on "Deco Drive."

More info: fillmoremb.com.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Sup

2012-01-31T17:11:00.001-08:00

Sup

Coral Gables chef Cindy Hutson cooks Thursday at prestigious Beard House

Posted: 31 Jan 2012 04:00 AM PST

Congratulations to chef Cindy Hutson of Ortanique on the Mile in Coral Gables.

The celebrated Hutson is cooking Thursday at the prestigious James Beard House in New York City. She's one of five chefs participating in a Carnivore's Delight dinner hosted by Certified Angus Beef Brand.

"Cooking at the Beard House never gets old," says Hutson, whose most recent venture is Ortanique Camana Bay in Grand Cayman.

Hutson will prepare truffle-braised short ribs with Maine lobster ravioli in a brandied creamed corn and chanterelle nage as her part of Carnivores' Delight.

The other participating chefs are Mark Stark, Stark Steakhouse, Santa Rose, Calif; Jeremiah Bacon, Oak Steakhouse, Charleston; Darryl Harmon, Water Works Restaurant & Lounge, Philadelphia; and pastry chef Megan Romano, Chocolate and Spice Bakery and Café, Las Vegas.

PHOTO: Chef Cindy Hutson

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-01-31T08:08:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Win trip to Preakness race in Baltimore? Enter contest

Posted: 31 Jan 2012 07:00 AM PST

Courtesy of Gulfstream Park Thoroughbred After-Care Program

Horse-racing fans, want to win a free trip to see the Preakness Stakes race in Baltimore on May 19?

Gulfstream Park race track in Hallandale Beach is offering a chance to win.

To enter, go to the Facebook page for Gulfstream Park’s thoroughbred after-care program, which helps thoroughbred horses find new owners after they finish their racing careers.

Click “like” on the program’s Facebook page, and you can fill out the entry form. The top prize is airfare for two, two nights accommodations, and two tickets to Pimlico race course to see the Preakness.

For more information on the contest, click here.

Sup

2012-01-30T17:26:00.001-08:00

Sup

Panera Bread makes donation with soup sales

Posted: 30 Jan 2012 04:00 AM PST

Starting Tuesday through Feb. 7, all 25 Panera Bread locations in Broward and Palm Beach counties is raising money for cancer research.

Panera will donate $1 from every bowl of soup sold to The Pap Corps. It's the largest all-volunteer organization in the country dedicated solely to cancer research. This year, it celebrates its 60th birthday. In the last 10 years, its 21,000 volunteers have donated more than $29 million to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University Of Miami Miller School Of Medicine.

To find a Panera location, go to PaneraBread.com.

PHOTO: Panera tomato soup

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-01-30T08:04:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

American: Use your MasterCard thru March 19 for chance to win “bucket list” trip

Posted: 30 Jan 2012 07:36 AM PST

American Airlines and MasterCard have teamed up to offer customers the chance of winning a one-of-a-kind travel experience in the "Check it Out. Check if Off' promotion.

Customers have to register here and use their MasterCard credit card to book a ticket on AA.com to be eligible to win one of three grand prizes.

American Airlines 757 aircraft, Courtesy of AA.com

The "bucket list" travel experience promotion runs through March 19.

The grand prize packages offer trips to Napa Valley or Paris or New York, and include airfare, hotel accommodations, a $1,500 or $2,500 prepaid gift card, tours and among other travel experiences.

For the complete promotion and prize details, click here.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-01-28T08:06:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

DOT slaps Spirit Airlines with $100,000 fine for disability violations

Posted: 27 Jan 2012 11:06 AM PST

Low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines has been fined $100,000 for violating federal rules prohibiting discrimination in air travel on the basis of disability, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced Friday.

The agency said Spirit failed to appropriately record and respond to complaints about the airline's treatment of passengers with disabilities.

Courtesy of Spirit Airlines

"Our rules on how airlines handle disability-related complaints are designed to help us ensure that passengers with disabilities are treated fairly when they fly," U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said in a statement. "We will continue to make sure carriers comply with our disability rules and take enforcement action when they do not."

The violation of the department's Air Carrier Access Act was discovered after its aviation enforcement office conducted an inspection at Spirit's headquarters in Miramar, Fla. in May 2010.

After reviewing disability-related complaints Spirit received in 2009 and 2010, the agency found that the carrier had failed to adequately categorize and account for all the issues that were raised.

This then led to an undercounting of complaints that were submitted in Spirit's annual report to the department. The review also showed that Spirit had not adequately responded to a vast majority of the complaints received during the two-year period.

Hotel deals offered for spring in Florida and beyond

Posted: 27 Jan 2012 08:00 AM PST

Courtesy of Bermuda tourism

It’s high season now for travel to Florida and the greater Caribbean, but you can get deals by booking this winter for travel in the spring or summer.

Here are some offers:

In Sanibel in west Florida, the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa offers 20 percent off on stays of at least two nights for guests who book through Feb. 2 for travel through April 1. Rates start at $199 a night after the discount and include breakfast for two. The package is subject to availability. Blackout dates may apply. Visit www.sanibelmarriott.com and use code WNT, or call 1-800-Marriott and mention the hotel’s "20/20" offer.

In Puerto Rico, in the Caribbean, the Verdanza Hotel in San Juan offers a package on a four-night stay, with rates starting at $148 a night. It includes a $100 debit card, 15 percent off select tours with Castillo Tours, a welcome cocktail for adults, a welcome gift for children, plus other perks. The package must be booked by Feb. 29 for travel through April 30. It is subject to availability. The room rate does not include taxes and fees. Call 800-625-0312 or visit verdanzahotel.com/specials-packages.

In Bermuda, off the coast of the Carolinas, book a minimum four-night stay through Feb. 3, and you can get half off at select hotels for travel through April 30. Visit www.gotobermuda.com.

Sup

2012-01-27T17:18:00.001-08:00

Sup

Chef Michael Schwartz welcomes Jonathan Waxman for a special one-night dinner

Posted: 27 Jan 2012 05:00 AM PST

Miami's celebrated chef Michael Schwartz holds his second chef pop-up series 7-10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1 with celebrated New York chef Jonathan Waxman.

Waxman, chef and owner at Barbuto in the West Village, had his second cookbook published last April. Called "Italian, My Way: More Than 150 Simple and Inspired Recipes That Breathe New Life into Italian Classics," it's explores Waxman's unique take on Italian.

He'll be cooking from the book on Wednesday at Schwartz's new Harry's Pizzeria. Harry's is small enough that guests will be able to interact with Waxman and Schwartz. The $160 dinner called Barbuto Pizzeria includes welcome cocktail, hors d'oeuvres, four courses, a signed copy of Waxman's cookbook, wine and beer, tax and tip.

Order tickets here.

Here's the menu:

Welcome: JW Rum Flip blood orange, ruby grapefruit, Cuban rum, Meyer lemon-vanilla syrup with passed Bruschetta with pompano tartar, Grilled shrimp spiedini with habanerno salsa and Arancini with lobster.

First: Fritto misto Thai eggplant, onions, fennel and Salad of conch arugula, purslane and Seville orange.

Second: Seasonal pizza with local tomatoes, spinach, bacon, cheese.

Third: Whole red snapper; JW chicken; Swiss chard gratin; Wilted kale and Malabar spinach.

Dessert: Passion fruit coconut semifreddo.

To Drink: Ca'del Bosco, Cuvée Prestige, Franciacorta, Italy NV; Vinosia, Falanghina, Campania, Italy 2010; COS, Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Nero d'Avola & Frappato, Sicily, Italy 2008; and draft beer on request.

Harry's is at 3918 N. Miami Ave., Miami, 786-275-4963.

PHOTO: Waxman, left, and Schwartz when the Miami chef cooked at Barbuto in New York City

Anthony's Coral Springs hosts Holy Mackerel craft beer dinner.Coal Fired Pizza

Posted: 27 Jan 2012 04:00 AM PST

Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza in Coral Springs joins forces with Fort Lauderdale-based Holy Mackerel Small Batch Beers for a special tasting dinner at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1.

Hosting the event are Anthony's founder Anthony Bruno and Bobby Gordash, Holy Mackerel brewer.

Here's what the $30 tickets get you.

- Fresh mozzarella & tomato salad paired with Magic Hat #9.

- Pork ribs with vinegar pepper, meatballs with ricotta cheese and coal oven roasted chicken wings with Holy Mackerel's Panic Attack

- "Well Done" pizza paired with Holy Mackerel's Special Golden Ale

- New York-style cheesecake paired with Holy Mackerel's Mack in Blac.

To reserve a spot, call the restaurant at 954-340-2625. It's at 9521 Westview Dr., Coral Springs.

PHOTO: Panic Attack from Holy Mackerel Small Batch Beers

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-01-27T08:09:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Costa Cruises: Concordia passengers to get $14k plus refund of expenses
Hilton Miami Airport finishing $15 million renovation
MIA: 2011 passenger traffic reaches new record of 38.3 million
American: New Miami-Barcelona route starts April 3

Costa Cruises: Concordia passengers to get $14k plus refund of expenses

Posted: 27 Jan 2012 07:13 AM PST

Here’s the latest from Costa Cruises regarding compensation of Costa Concordia guests that have returned home after the ship’s tragic capsizing off Italy earlier this month. The accident has resulted in at least 16 deaths and another 16 persons are missing.

Costa Cruises (Crociere) is a unit of Miami-based Carnival Corp. & Plc, which also owns Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises and several other cruise lines.

Costa Cruises Details Costa Concordia Guest Reimbursement

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. (Jan. 27, 2012) — Costa Crociere wishes to again express its profound condolences to the families of the victims, continued sympathy to the families of the missing and deep regret and sorrow for the damages and hardship the Costa Concordia accident caused to all its guests.

Costa Crociere announced a compensation proposal for guests who have returned home after the Jan. 13 tragic Costa Concordia accident.

Costa Concordia, Zuma/MCT Courtesy

This proposal is the result of negotiations between Costa Crociere and consumer associations protecting guests' interests, with the support of multiple tourism and travel industry associations. In Italy, the company has already reached an agreement with the National Council of Consumers and Users, a national organization.

The families of the deceased and guests who were injured and required medical treatment on site will be covered under a separate proposal that will take into account their individual circumstances.

The compensation package for Costa Concordia guests who have returned home includes:

• A lump sum of 11,000 euros (US$14,458.07 at today's exchange rate) per person as indemnification, covering all patrimonial and nonpatrimonial damages, including loss of baggage and personal effects, psychological distress and loss of enjoyment of the cruise vacation;

• Reimbursement of the value of the cruise, including harbor taxes;

• Reimbursement of air and bus transfers included in the cruise package;

• Full reimbursement of travel expenses to reach the port of embarkation and return home;

• Reimbursement of any medical expenses resulting from the cruise;

• Reimbursement of expenses incurred on board during the cruise.

This compensation package is higher than the current indemnification limits provided for in international conventions and laws currently in force. The 11,000 euro lump-sum payment is offered to all Costa Concordia passengers, including nonpaying children, regardless of their age.

Costa also has pledged not to deduct from this sum any amount paid by any insurance policy stipulated by guests. In addition, the company will return all goods stored in cabin safes, where retrieval is possible.

Costa Crociere also has pledged to provide a program for psychological assistance to any guests that request it.

The company has further agreed to offer customers the ability to cancel any upcoming cruise booked before Jan. 13, on any of its routes, without penalty through Feb. 7, 2012.

Dedicated operation units will handle claims to ensure timely resolution. Payments will be credited by the company within seven days of receipt of the acceptance of the proposal. Guests should e-mail careteam@us.costa.it or call 954-266-5693 for assistance.

Hilton Miami Airport finishing $15 million renovation

Posted: 27 Jan 2012 07:00 AM PST

Courtesy of Hilton Miami Airport hotel

The Hilton Miami Airport hotel said it is completing a $15 million renovation that already includes a new fitness center and upgrades to its 508 rooms and suites.

A makeover of the hotel’s lobby bar is to be completed late summer.

It’s all part of a a three-year, $3 billion renovation of Hilton hotels worldwide.

The Miami hotel’s new fitness center features floor to ceiling windows that look out to gardens and the pool.

Room upgrades include energy-efficient lights, wireless Internet access and 37-inch flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms have granite countertops. And room decor is in earth-tones, with red and orange accents like the sun, Hilton said.

For more information on the hotel near Miami International Airport, click here.

MIA: 2011 passenger traffic reaches new record of 38.3 million

Posted: 26 Jan 2012 11:33 AM PST

Passenger traffic at Miami International Airport reached a new record in 2011 growing 7.3 percent to 38.3 million travelers compared to the prior year period, airport officials said Thursday.

The South Florida airport's international passenger count grew nine percent to 18.4 million, while domestic travelers climbed 5.8 percent to nearly 19.9 million.

The growth in passenger traffic was largely due to hub carrier American Airlines that carried nearly six percent more passengers in fiscal year 2011, airport officials said.

MIA North Concourse D, Miami-airport.com/COURTESY

Already in January American has recorded eight of its top 25 days at the airport for passenger traffic.

MIA's passenger traffic was also lifted by new and expanded service by other carriers, officials said.

In 2011, the new carriers included Arkefly, Corsairfly, ExecAir, KLM, TAP Portugal and VivaAerobus.

American: New Miami-Barcelona route starts April 3

Posted: 26 Jan 2012 10:34 AM PST

American Airlines plans to launch new Miami to Barcelona service April 3 starting with five weekly flights, the airline announced this week.

It will ramp up the new service between Miami International Airport and El Prat International Airport to a daily frequency June 14.

American Boeing 767, Courtesy of AA.com

The new flight to Barcelona, one of Europe's top tourist destinations and a thriving business center, will complement its existing service from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, American said.

“The addition of Barcelona further underscores the importance of our Miami hub and our commitment to its growth,” said Peter Dolara American’s senior vice president based in Miami. “This flight will further expand South Florida’s historical ties to Spain and will complement our service to Madrid as well as Iberia’s increased service to Spain’s capital city.”

As part of a joint business operational agreement, Iberia plans to boost its Miami to Madrid service with a second flight operating four times a week starting March 25.

American said it will continue to operate one daily MIA-MAD flight.

Barcelona will be the 111th destination served by American and its regional carrier American Eagle from MIA.

The Barcelona flights will be operated with Boeing 767-300 aircraft with 225 seats including 30 business class and 195 main cabin seats.

For more information on the new route and flight schedule, click here.

South Florida Entertainment Blog

2012-01-26T21:16:00.001-08:00

South Florida Entertainment Blog

Weekend preview: Gotta make it right!

Posted: 26 Jan 2012 05:31 AM PST

Charles Bradley, on his way to Revolution Live in April, has a Valentine's Day contest that could win your "baby" a phone rendition of Bradley doing "Lovin' You, Baby."

All this GOP Jell-O wrestling over Tuesday's Florida primary would be great entertainment if it weren't so, you know, important. We decide history here in the Sunshine State. But is it coincidence that the days leading up to the vote will be filled with great comedy? It can't be.

In order of awesomeness: Bob Newhart, whose inventive stand-up routines were later obscured by his iconic TV work, performs 8 p.m. Election Day at Hard Rock Live (1 Seminole Way, Hollywood). Tickets cost $57.25 and $88.75 via Ticketmaster. Also on Tuesday, the delightfully brash Demetri Martin (right) works the Improv CityPlace (550 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach) a couple of days before hosting "Radiolab" at the Fillmore. Tickets: $30; Improv.com. Then, Jackie Mason brings the "oys!" to the Improv Paradise at the Hard Rock Monday night. Tickets: $37.74; 954-981-5653. On Tuesday night, Mason is at the Kravis Center (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach). Tickets: $25+; 800-572-8471.

Actor and standup Tommy Davidson (left), an "In Living Color" original, hits Ricochet Bar and Lounge (3250 Buena Vista Blvd., Miami) Monday night. Tickets: $25; ricochetlounge.com. Michael Winslow, whose "Police Academy" effects are probably lasered into your brain, is at the New York Comedy Club (8221 Glades Road, Boca Raton) Friday and Saturday. Tickets: $15, $22; 561-470-6887. Stand-up and character actor Harland Williams (he played God in the direct-to-video "Dahmer vs. Gacy") has shows Friday-Sunday at Improv CityPlace. Tickets: $20, $22; 561-841-1212.

SPEAKING OF POLITICS ...
Pickpocket, con artist and magician Remy O'Connor will perform his special brand of wizardry (which includes some sideshow freakiness) Feb. 2 at the Hollywood Beach Resort (101 N. Ocean Drive, Hollywood). The evening, called "An Intimate Evening With Remy Connor," includes a performance by Isadora Bull of Cupcake Burlesque, among others. Tickets range from $10 to $25 and are available at Remyconnor.eventbrite.com or $20 at the door.

MORE BULL
The irreverent Red Bull Candola — part raft race, part comedy skit — is returning to the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale April 14, and now is the time to get your application in. Organizers at Redbullusa.com/candola are accepting registrations for the event through Jan. 31. They will take a maximum of 30 boats, each with a three-man crew. You'll need to describe your proposed design and theme, and a short video showing your "talent" wouldn't hurt your cause. There's more info on the website, or email info@redbullcandola.com. You'll also glean a lot of tips from the video below:

FEELING CRABBY?
The popular Lawn at the Riverside in downtown Fort Lauderdale will host some of the area's top seafood restaurants for the Stone Crab and Seafood Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. The Riverwalk Trust-sponsored event, which includes live music and family activities on the grass next to the Riverside Hotel, is free to enter, with restaurants charging for each dish. Info: Goriverwalk.com, 954-468-1541.

GOTTA MAKE IT RIGHT!
Charles Bradley, a.k.a. "The Screaming Eagle of Soul," begins a U.S. tour next month that includes an April 14 stop at Revolution Live in Fort Lauderdale. Since the January 2011 release of "No Time for Dreaming," which includes covers of Neil Young's "Heart of Gold" and Nirvana's "Stay Away," the Brooklyn-based Daptone Records discovery has killed on stages at SXSW, Bumbershoot, "Last Call With Carson Daly" and "The Tonight Show." Tickets for the Revolution show, opened by the Budos Band, are on sale now for $17 at Jointherevolution.net. Bradley also recently announced his "Valentine's Day ... Gotta Make It Right!" contest, in which some lucky fans will win a Valentine's Day phone call from Bradley to their loved ones, in which he'll sing his yearning, churning ballad "Lovin' You Baby." Check Thecharlesbradley.com for details.

JOYFUL NOISE
The Lee Boys (above) are from Miami and play a style of music that has nothing to do with hip-hop, reggaeton or salsa. The band's "sacred steel" reverie is pure joy, and the $10 cover for their show at the Back Room Blues Bar (2222 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach) may be the best money you'll spend all weekend. Or, as Conan says, "Good lord!" Show starts at 9:30 p.m. Info: Thebackroombluesbar.com, 561-860-4679.

DUBLIN UP
Nearly two months after it became a hot place to drink in Miami's swank Brickell neighborhood, Lucky Clover Irish Pub celebrates its grand opening in a formal way with a block party from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday. This being an Irish pub in Miami, the evening's soundtrack is highlighted by the Latin-tinged electro-funk of the Spam Allstars, followed by the Orlando soul of the Legendary JCs. You'll find free nibblings and drinks from 7 to 9 p.m. At the cash bar, look for the Dublin Trouble: Irish whiskey, hazelnut, ginger ale and freshly squeezed lemon. Info: Luckycloverbar.com, 786-691-2750.

DANNY AIELLO, JAZZ SINGER
Danny Aiello is a respected character actor ("Do the Right Thing," "Moonstruck") and also a respected jazz singer. The New York Times dared reference four of the premier touchstones of jazz vocalism in saying, "Mr. Aiello's singing has the bounce of his idols, Bobby Darin, Frank Sinatra and Louis Prima, and the throaty lyricism of another idol, Tony Bennett." At 7 p.m. Friday, Aiello and his Swinging Jazz Band help close out the inaugural January Jazz at the Bienes Center series at St. Thomas Aquinas High School (2801 SW 12th St., Fort Lauderdale). Tickets: $28, $38. Info: 954-513-2272. Aiello and band also will perform 7 p.m. Monday at the Lyric Theater (59 SW Flagler Ave., Stuart). Tickets: $40. Info: 772-286-7827.

SCARLETT FEVER
The new Miami City Ballet-commissioned work from the current "it boy" of international choreography, Liam Scarlett, moves to the Kravis Center (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) for performances Friday through Sunday. "Viscera" will highlight MCB's Program II, along with Jerome Robbins' "In the Night" and Balanchine's "Ballet Imperial." Tickets: $19-$169. Info: Kravis.org, 800-572-8471. Program II moves to Fort Lauderdale's Broward Center Feb. 3-5. More info: Miamicityballet.org.

BUFFETT TICKETS
Curiously, good seats can still be had for Jimmy Buffett's performance Saturday night at AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami. They range from $49.75 to $154.80 at Ticketmaster.

FREE FAMILY MOVIE
The free Friday night screening at the ArtsPark on Young Circle in Hollywood is the good-for-adults-too Disney classic "The Lion King." The show starts at 8 p.m. Info: 954-921-3404.

MORE FAMILY FUN
Tigers, elephants, Chinese acrobats, Russian daredevils, contortionists, clowns and funnel cakes … It's all there. But what sets the UniverSoul Circus apart is the vibe, a modern riff on the circus arts with hip-hop and humor to spare. The circus returns to Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens Tuesday through Feb. 5. Tickets: $15-$33.65 via Ticketmaster outlets. More info: Universoulcircus.com.

Get concert announcements, entertainment news and information on local things to do on Twitter @BenCrandell. Click here to sign up for our entertainment text alerts.

Sup

2012-01-26T17:26:00.001-08:00

Sup

GG's Waterfront in Hollywood gives champange to couples who pop the question in-house

Posted: 26 Jan 2012 04:00 AM PST

Thinking of getting engaged in February?

GG's Waterfront Bar and Grill in Hollywood is giving a free bottle of champagne to every couple who gets engaged at the restaurant in the month of February.

Owners Dan and Lise-Anne Serafini wanted to up the ante for the month of Valentine's Day.

Prospective grooms should call in advance and the free bottle and two glasses will be ready whenever he wants it presented. You'll need to order lunch or dinner entrees as well.

GG's Waterfront Bar & Grill, 606 N. Ocean Drive in Hollywood, 954-929-7030.

PHOTO: Dock seating at GG's.

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-01-26T08:06:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Report: Oceania Cruises delays launch of Riviera ship

Posted: 26 Jan 2012 07:50 AM PST

Athens monuments, Courtesy of Athens, Greece tourism

Cruise line Oceania Cruises is delaying the launch of its new ship by three weeks because of labor strikes in the Italian shipyard building the vessel, The Miami Herald reported.

Instead of sailing April 24, the new Riviera is now scheduled to depart May 16 on its maiden voyage in Europe including Athens.

Passengers affected by the change will be offered a choice of re-booking or a full refund, the Miami-based cruise company said.

For the complete Miami Herald story, click here.

What’s the rudest thing you’ve seen in South Florida?

Posted: 25 Jan 2012 09:53 AM PST

Miami Beach, Courtesy of The Palms Hotel & Spa

Miami earned the dubious distinction as the country’s second rudest city in a recent ranking in Travel + Leisure magazine. (New York was first.)

That discourteous result got us thinking: What’s the rudest thing you’ve ever seen or experienced in South Florida?

We’re looking to compile a list of those answers, so please send us your comments either as a reply to this Travel Blog or to the Facebook page for the SunSentinel’s Business section, .facebook.com/SunSentinelBusiness.

Thanks! (And that’s not rude, is it?)

Sup

2012-01-25T17:20:00.001-08:00

Sup

Michelle Bernstein out at The Omphoy in Palm Beach

Posted: 24 Jan 2012 08:44 AM PST

Here's the press release from chef Michelle Bernstein's public relations rep.

"As of February 1, 2012 Chef Michelle Bernstein will no longer be involved with The Omphoy Ocean Resort in Palm Beach, Florida. She and husband/partner David Martinez continue to own/operate Sra. Martinez, Michy's and Crumb on Parchment in Miami."

When happened?

"All I can say is that January 31 is her last day," said Larry Carrino of Brustman Carrino Public Relations in an email. "No further comment available, John, sorry."

Jose Lambiet, however, who operates his own Gossip Extra tells a decidedly different story on his sitetoday.

Just a few weeks ago, chef Dean James Max announced he was leaving the Marriott Singer Island where he opened 3800 Ocean last year. Max said the hotel has just one kitchen, making it difficult to take on the resort's entire culinary operation. He'll concentrate on 3030 Ocean in Fort Lauderdale and his restaurants in Grand Cayman, Cleveland and Dallas.

PHOTO: Chef Mihelle Bernstein

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

2012-01-25T08:08:00.001-08:00

Travel blog from SunSentinel.com

Mandarin Oriental, Miami named to AAA top hotel list
Lauderdale in Times Square: “Defrost Your Swimsuit”
Spirit nixes new U.S. airfare rules as hiding gov’t taxes

Mandarin Oriental, Miami named to AAA top hotel list

Posted: 25 Jan 2012 07:00 AM PST

Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental, Miami

The Mandarin Oriental in Miami is the latest South Florida hotel to be recognized on AAA’s five-diamond list of the best hotels in North America.

The travel group chose 126 hotels in the United States, Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean for its five-diamond list. That’s from thousands of AAA-approved hotels operating in the area.

All other five-diamond hotels selected in South Florida have made the prestigious list before.

The others recognized in South Florida and the year they were first listed are: The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale (2009); The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach (2008); Four Seasons Hotel Miami (2006); Four Seasons Resort, Palm Beach (2009); The Breakers, Palm Beach (1996); Aqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach, Sunny Isles (2009).

For the complete AAA five-diamond hotel list, please click here.

Outside South Florida, other hotels added to the five-diamond list this year include the Ocean House in Watch Hill in Rhode Island and Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort in Jumby Bay on the eastern Caribbean island of Antigua.

Lauderdale in Times Square: “Defrost Your Swimsuit”

Posted: 24 Jan 2012 03:14 PM PST

"Defrost Your Swimsuit," Courtesy of Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau

Ice blocks standing in New York City’s Time Square with bikinis in them?

That was part of the ”Defrost Your Swimsuit” promotion that the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau held Tuesday in Manhattan.

The promotion also included models in bathing suits in a Beach Mobile.

The Broward County tourism group first unveiled its “Defrost Your Swimsuit” promotion last year, earning accolades and media coverage in New York, the No. 1 source of visitors to Fort Lauderdale.

For more on the “Defrost Your Swimsuit” campaign and its related contest to win a trip for two to Fort Lauderdale, visit www.sunny.org.

Spirit nixes new U.S. airfare rules as hiding gov’t taxes

Posted: 24 Jan 2012 02:10 PM PST

Courtesy of Spirit Airlines

Consumer groups like new government rules on airfares that take effect Thursday, but Spirit Airlines rejects them.

Spirit said the rules don’t make airfares more transparent for travelers, as the U.S. Department of Transportation claims. Instead, they require airlines “HIDE the government's taxes and fees in fares,” Spirit said.

"We believe that the better form of transparency is to break out costs, so customers know exactly what they are buying," Spirit's Chief Executive Ben Baldanza said in a statement.

"If the government can hide taxes in consumer's airfares – which they are mandating us to do starting this week – then they can quietly carry out their hidden agenda and increase the taxes consumers bear," said Baldanza.

At issue are rules requiring airlines include taxes and mandatory fees in fares, so that travelers will have more complete information upfront about what their ticket price will be.

Consumer advocates say the rules make it easier for travelers to compare prices.

Spirit charges the rules make “fares distorted.”

Spirit long has advertised fares as low as $9 fares. Under new rules that include taxes and fees, a $9 fare won’t fly. Taxes alone usually run $10.50 each way on a domestic route, according to estimates by website Travelzoo.

Spirit said it’s concerned the government is mulling new fees on air travel, including a $35 takeoff tax on every ticket.

The Miramar-based carrier called on the public to join its campaign for low fares at www.KeepMyFaresLow.org.

For the SunSentinel’s latest story on the new airfare rules, click here.

Sup

2012-01-24T17:10:00.001-08:00

Sup

Häagen-Dazs Shops introduces four new flavors

Posted: 24 Jan 2012 04:00 AM PST

Fans of Häagen-Dazs — and who isn't? — are introducing four new ice cream flavors to its shops.

They'll be offered exclusively as sundaes before the flavors hit grocery stores in five or six months. One sundae will be introduced each week.

The new line-up features Vanilla Bean Espresso, Spiced Caramel Biscuit, Salted Caramel Truffle and Coconut Macaroon.

To find the nearest Häagen-Dazs Shop, log on to Haagendazs.com/shops.