REVIEW: Light Haven Motel at Hollywood Beach - The Perfect Dose of SoFla Nostalgia and Tradition

I spent my formative years in South Florida. While I never grew to be a huge fan of the area, I can't deny that I have some wonderful memories from the time I spent there, and I also acknowledge certain aspects of the area that continue to charm me to this day. I appreciate South Florida more now when I return as a tourist, but even when I lived there - I loved any excuse to stay in a little efficiency apartment near the beach... and I always had a fondness for Hollywood Beach specifically. On a recent visit, we discovered a fantastic, quaint little place that checked off all the boxes for a fabulous (and affordable) beach weekend - Light Haven Motel.


We've stayed in vacation homes, mountain cabins, standard hotels, Disney hotels of all levels, and other elaborate resorts. We truly are the type of people who appreciate the variety of accommodation styles that exist in modern-day tourism - but nothing is quite like a cozy little studio when vacationing in a beach town. Light Haven Motel is a small cluster of efficiency apartments and studios. Consider it the pre-Airbnb version of a home-away-from-home, beach bum style! The site is lovingly maintained by local owners and a couple staff members. They went out of their way to be personally welcoming when we arrived, and we noticed immediately that our fellow guests all seemed very fond of the whole crew. Any lodging staff can be attentive, but the staff at Light Haven went beyond that, showing a very thoughtful and friendly side to their hospitality. A crazy close encounter with a member of South Florida's infamous iguana population led to a lively conversation about just how much the ecology of South Florida has changed since we were residents ourselves. 

REVIEW: Bokampers Plantation Did WHAT To Hamburgers??

Photo: Bokampers

I spent my adolescence in South Florida, and it's one of the places I call home. A lot has changed there over the years, like most places. Many of my favorite restaurants that were not expansive chains are now gone, but the upside to that is the chance to discover something new when I visit. Bokampers Sports Bar & Grill launched in Plantation in 2008. It has grown to six locations in the south and southwest Florida areas, including Miramar, Estero, Naples, and two Fort Lauderdale outlets, with Bo's Beach now open at Fort Lauderdale Beach. If the name Bokamper sounds familiar, there's a good reason for that. The restaurant was founded by former Miami Dolphins linebacker, Kim Bokamper - a member of the team's famed "Killer B's" defense that led the Dolphins to the Super Bowl in 1982.

PGA National Resort & Spa Announces Annual ‘12 Days of PGA’ Holiday Celebration

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – PGA National Resort & Spa – South Florida’s world-class golf, vacation, meetings and spa destination – announces its annual "12 Days of PGA” holiday celebration from Dec. 21 through New Year’s Day.

The family-friendly festivities kickoff Friday, Dec. 21 with 12 continuous days of delicious dining and lively entertainment culminating with a New Year’s Eve celebration. Adults can enjoy a five-course dinner at Ironwood Steak & Seafood or an all-inclusive “Essence of Motown Gala featuring Larry Johnson.”

The legendary resort will also have a New Year’s Eve celebration at its sophisticated iBAR featuring DJ entertainment, dancing and a midnight ball drop (8 p.m. – 2 a.m.). Children are treated to a special “kids-only” New Year’s Eve party with games, activities, dinner, dessert and snacks.

To celebrate Christmas Day, an extravagant buffet is offered at Ironwood Steak & Seafood from 1 – 8:30 p.m. featuring delicious entrees including Alaskan King Crab Legs, Hickory Smoked Leg of Lamb, BBQ Black Cod and Herb Roasted Prime Rib. An array of seasonal appetizers and sides complement the meal with a decadent dessert station to finish off.

Seasonal celebrations and extraordinary events include breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus (Dec. 24 and 25), holiday preview shopping events, beauty demonstrations, children’s poolside activities, tennis round robins, golf clinics and more.

Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group Announces Del Frisco’s Grille to Open in Fort Lauderdale

The stylish and contemporary restaurant is slated to open on renowned Las Olas Square Nov. 14

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. — Oct. 17, 2018 — Del Frisco's Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: DFRG) is slated to open a new Del Frisco's Grille in Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 14. The restaurant marks the 23^rd location for the Del Frisco’s Grille concept. The stylish, modern restaurant will have a vibrant ambiance where life is celebrated around the table. It is located in the heart of downtown in the Las Olas Blvd Square building, at 501 Las Olas Blvd, Suite 150, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.

“We are thrilled to bring Del Frisco’s Grille to Fort Lauderdale this fall,” said Brandon Coleman III, President of Del Frisco’s Grille. “The Las Olas Boulevard area is a must visit destination in Florida with incredible restaurants, shopping and art. Our approachable, high-end atmosphere creates an incredible dining experience featuring fresh seafood, Prime steaks and social menus that are a perfect match for the lively Fort Lauderdale vibe.”

Key West’s Exotic Fantasy Fest to Celebrate ‘Games We Play’ Oct. 19-28

KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Revelers can expect a “monopoly” on high-energy fun Friday, Oct. 19, through Sunday, Oct. 28, as Key West’s annual Fantasy Fest puts a playful spin on masking and costuming festivities. The 2018 festival is themed “Oh … The Games We Play!” and features 10 days of masquerade balls, elaborate costume contests, parties and fanciful frolics, all climaxing in a grand parade set for Saturday, Oct. 27.

Event organizers encourage participants to design costumes and parade floats around the festival theme — embracing everything from old-style board games to online role-playing challenges. They might draw inspiration from suspects in Clue, riverboat gamblers, Bingo bimbos or quest-focused avatars from the “World of Warcraft” universe.  

The glamorous gaming action is to begin with a Royal Coronation Ball Friday, Oct. 19, where a king and queen are crowned to rule over the festivities. Also that weekend, the family-friendly Goombay street party takes place in historic Bahama Village, saluting Key West’s Caribbean roots.

In addition, Key West Burlesque is to present “Madame DuJour’s Magical Game Show and Burlesque Experience” from Friday, Oct. 19, through Friday, Oct. 26. The tantalizing parody blends performance, pageantry and prizes for audience members.

Subsequent festival highlights include Wednesday’s wacky Pet Masquerade, where creatures ranging from dogs and cats to “angry birds” compete for costume prizes along with their human companions.

FLORIDA - RECIPE CONTEST+COOKING DEMOS w/ Star Chef Allen - Using the "Golden Fruit" at First Ever Mango Festival in South Beach

WHO: South Beach Mango Festival

WHAT: THE FIRST ANNUAL MANGO FESTIVAL HELD IN MIAMI BEACH-  a community event, which will offer participants the opportunity to enjoy the work of a range of talented chefs and mango experts, culinary delights and various family activities, allinspired by the versatile and delicious mango. The event will also be featuring avocados, dragon fruit, coconut, and many other natively-grown fruits.

WHERE: LUMMUS PARK @ 1200 OCEAN DRIVE

MIAMI BEACH, FL 33139

WHEN: SUNDAY, AUGUST 5^TH, 2018

FROM 11AM-7PM

MORE INFO:  FEATURING:

- Kids Cooking Class

- “Best Baked Mango” Recipe Contest Judging

- Kids Mango eating contest

- Amazing Mango cooking Class

- Healthy Mango Juicing & Smoothies

- Mixology Competition

- Mango Dancers

- Kids Bounce House

- Live music

FLORIDA - THE GALLERIA AT FORT LAUDERDALE ANNOUNCES THE FIRST-IN-FLORIDA SEAQUEST TO ITS POPULAR SHOPPING AND DINING DESTINATION

New Interactive Family Attraction Slated to Open During Late 2018

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (June 6, 2018) – The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, recognized as Fort Lauderdale’s premier shopping destination, has announced SeaQuest Fort Lauderdale will open during late 2018 as one of the newest additions to its popular mix of retail and dining offerings. The hands-on global sea life education and entertainment experience for all ages will reside in a 23,000-square-foot home at the east end of The Galleria near H & M and the soon to open Powerhouse Gym.

“The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale is thrilled to announce the addition of SeaQuest Fort Lauderdale which will add another dimension to our collection of nationally recognized retailers and top-notch restaurants,” said Mark Trouba, general manager at The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale. “This first-in-Florida interactive journey through exhibits that highlight global wildlife will be fittingly located at The Galleria which has a loyal following of local shoppers and welcomes visitors from around the world.”

FLORIDA - Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants to Debut at Pines City Center in Pembroke Pines, with Grand Opening on April 30, 2018

Pembroke Pines, Fla. — March 28, 2018 — Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, a nationally renowned establishment which combines a restaurant, winery, a Napa-style tasting room and artisanal retail market is debuting its newest location with a grand opening at 10310 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines, FL 33026 on April 30, 2018. Cooper’s Hawk will be located in the new Pines City Center.

With the opening of the Pines City Center location, the award-winning upscale casual restaurant and wine-driven lifestyle brand will officially operate 31 restaurants and tasting rooms. An additional four more locations are slated to open across the U.S. throughout 2018.

FLORIDA - Monster Energy Fort Rock Producers Danny Wimmer Presents & AEG Presents As Well As Music Artists Corey Taylor & Halestorm, And Rock ‘N’ Roll Veteran Michael Lang...

Support Initiatives For School Safety In Solidarity With

Stoneman Douglas High School Students And Others Across The Country

Festival Offers 50% Off Weekend Tickets Promotion To Those Who

Sign Student Petition

South Florida’s Biggest Rock Experience

To Feature Performances From

Ozzy Osbourne, Godsmack,

Five Finger Death Punch, Stone Sour, Shinedown, Breaking Benjamin & More

Saturday, April 28 & Sunday, April 29, 2018

At The Festival’s New Home In Greater Fort Lauderdale

At Markham Park In Sunrise, FL

Following the tragic February 14 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in South Florida, Monster Energy Fort Rock festival producers Danny Wimmer Presents and AEG Presents--along with Corey Taylor, Halestorm and various other music artists performing at the April 28 & 29festival at Markham Park in Sunrise, FL--are showing their support for the students and advocating for school safety.

FLORIDA - PGA National Resort & Spa Offers Exceptional Spring Golf Getaways

Tackle The Bear Trap Like PGA TOUR Pros in the Honda Classic

 
(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – PGA National Resort & Spa – South Florida’s world-class golf, vacation and spa destination – announces two exceptional golf packages for spring getaways following the wildly successful Honda Classic recently played on its Champion Course.
 
Propelled by the return of local resident Tiger Woods, and the drama of the world’s best players taking on The Champion Course’s famous three-hole Bear Trap (Nos. 15 – 17), the 2018 Honda Classic shattered its attendance record by attracting 224,642 spectators during a week of perfect South Florida weather. Additionally, CBS posted the highest viewership and ratings for the tournament in five years as Justin Thomas won the event in a dramatic playoff.

FLORIDA - DEANA MARTIN KICKS OFF 2018 PERFORMANCES VALENTINE’S WEEK AT THE COLONY HOTEL IN PALM BEACH, FLORIDA

“It’s no wonder she is hailed as an important voice in the annals of popular music. As an all-around entertainer, Deana Martin is without equal.” – AXS’s Allen Foster

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – The legend continues as Deana Martin takes her audience on a contemporary and exciting musical journey through the Great American Songbook and the legendary superstars of the twentieth century. In this electrifying musical revue, Deana Martin sings hot new arrangements of enduring hits popularized by Peggy Lee, Bobby Darin, Dinah Washington, Nat King Cole and others, including her iconic father Dean Martin and “Uncle” Frank Sinatra and “Uncle” Sammy Davis Jr.

FLORIDA - 7th Annual Jon Jay FMSbonds Celebrity Bowling Challenge Returns January 27 Featuring Jay and Other MLB Players to Benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade

Jay, MLB Outfielder and Miami Native, 

to Host Event Open to the Public at Splitsville Lanes

What/Who:

Jon Jay, MLB outfielder, player on the St. Louis Cardinals World Championship team, Miami native and Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade alumnus, will host the 7th Annual Jon Jay FMSbonds Celebrity Bowling Challenge. All event proceeds will benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s Project Learn After-School Program, serving Club members in grades K–8.

Along with other Major League Baseball stars and local celebrities, Jay will bowl with attendees during the fun-filled fundraising event. The evening will include red carpet arrivals, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, exciting bowling matches and more. There will be a live and silent auction and kids from Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade attending as well. Sponsorships are available.

“It’s always so rewarding when former members of the Clubs return to give back,” said Alex Rodriguez-Roig, president of Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade. “It’s especially nice when an event becomes annual like this one in its seventh year. Through the efforts of Jon and many others who support Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, we are able to continue to make a difference in the lives of many area youths.” 

FLORIDA - PGA National Resort and Spa Offers ‘Sunsational’ Golf and Spa Getaways

Opportunity to Play Newly Renovated Palmer Course 

Headlines ‘Gold Golf’ Stay-and-Play Package 

 
(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – PGA National Resort and Spa – South Florida’s world-class golf, vacation and spa destination – announces a trio of exceptional packages ideal for fun and relaxing getaways this winter and spring.
 
Resort guests can now take full advantage of the newly transformed Palmer Course after undergoing a recent comprehensive renovation. Through April 30, players can experience The Palmer through the popular Gold Golf stay-and-play offer starting at $319 (per person, per night, double occupancy). Additionally, nightly luxury accommodations are included with private balcony or terrace, full breakfast daily in the Palm Terrace, one round per day as well as unlimited range balls and complimentary bag storage.

FLORIDA - Oceanfront Romance is in the Air at Atlantic Hotel and Spa, with Distinctive Couples Valentine’s Day Packages, Starting at Only $120

Gourmet Picnic Dinner on the Beach, Oceanfront Dinner at Coastal, and Three Spa Atlantic Packages

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. — Jan 12, 2018 — Beckoning with romantic ocean views, exquisite cuisine and a sea-and-citrus-inspired day spa, the Atlantic Hotel & Spa, located on beautiful Fort Lauderdale Beach, is enticing couples with unique Valentine’s Day packages. Starting at only $120, the alluring offerings include a Gourmet Picnic Dinner on the Beach, Oceanfront Dinner at Coastal, and three Spa Atlantic packages. All packages are available from February 11 to February 18. No overnight stay required.

FLORIDA - Parkinson’s Foundation South Palm Beach County Chapter to Host Annual Leo Geller Golf Tournament Celebrating 20 Years on March 26 at Boca Rio Golf Club

Who/What:

Parkinson’s Foundation South Palm Beach County Chapter will host its Annual Leo Geller Golf Tournament Celebrating 20 Years at Boca Rio Gulf Club on Monday, March 26. Guests will begin the day with lunch before hitting the links with a shotgun start. Caddy is included per foursome at no additional cost. The day will end at the 19th hole with a raffle, awards and lavish cocktail reception. This year’s honorary chairperson is Leo Geller and the co-chairs are Paul Kelly, Ciaran Swords and Jim McClung. 

               

When:

Monday, March 26, 2018

11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Where:

Boca Rio Golf Club

22041 Boca Rio Rd

Boca Raton, FL 33433

FLORIDA - Marathon’s 2018 Pigeon Key Art Festival to Add Music and Live Auction

MARATHON, Florida Keys — Described as “a big show for a tiny island,” the annual Pigeon Key Art Festival is set for Friday and Saturday, Feb. 2-3, 2018, and attendees can expect new elements added to the artistry on display.

As in the past, the festival is to transform the open-air Marathon Community Park into a tropically themed oasis of exemplary artwork in the mediums of pottery, painting, glass, sculpture, photography, jewelry and more.  

The show is scheduled 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday — a departure from its past Saturday-Sunday format.

FLORIDA - Monster Energy Fort Rock Band Lineup Announced

South Florida’s Biggest Rock Experience

To Feature Performances From

Ozzy Osbourne, Godsmack,

Five Finger Death Punch, Stone Sour, Shinedown, Breaking Benjamin & More

Saturday, April 28 & Sunday, April 29, 2018

At The Festival’s New Home In Greater Fort Lauderdale

At Markham Park In Sunrise, FL

Ozzy Osbourne, Godsmack, Five Finger Death Punch, Stone Sour, Shinedown, and Breaking Benjamin lead a powerful talent lineup for the 6^thannual Monster Energy Fort Rock, Saturday, April 28 and Sunday, April 29, 2018. Monster Energy Fort Rock moves to its new home at Markham Park in Sunrise, Florida, in greater Fort Lauderdale, expanding its capacity and providing an enhanced festival experience. In association with the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Hello Sunny Underground Music program, South Florida’s Biggest Rock Experience features rock’s top artists performing on two stages during the 2-day festival.

Monster Energy Fort Rock presale and Early Bird community ticket offers are available now and the general ticket onsale begins Friday, December 8 at Noon EST. Visit www.FortRockFestival.com for details.

The daily band lineup for Monster Energy Fort Rock is as follows (subject to change):

Saturday, April 28: Godsmack, Five Finger Death Punch, Shinedown, Halestorm, Bullet For My Valentine, Underoath, Trivium, Hatebreed, Texas Hippie Coalition, Power Trip, ‘68, Bad Wolves

Sunday, April 29: Ozzy Osbourne, Breaking Benjamin, Stone Sour, Stone Temple Pilots, Killswitch Engage, Hollywood Undead, Sevendust, Pop Evil, Red Sun Rising, Avatar, Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown, Toothgrinder

Godsmack’s Shannon Larkin exclaims, “Hey Ft. Lauderdale! It’s Shannon from Godsmack, here to announce the band’s return to Fort Rock on April 28th. It’s been a couple years since we’ve played in Florida, and 3 out of 4 of us call the Sunshine State our home, so we are STOKED to jam with all our homies and all the great rock fans that have supported us for 20 years! Get ready to get Smacked!!”

Clay Busch, Vice President of Marketing and Sponsorship for festival co-producers Danny Wimmer Presents said, “Monster Energy Fort Rock is moving to its new home at Markham Park in Sunrise / Fort Lauderdale for its sixth year, as the site provides a larger space and room to grow, which will allow us to provide attendees with a bigger Fort Rock experience. We truly appreciate the support shown by Fort Rockers over the past five years, and encourage fans in the Fort Myers / Naples area to join us again in 2018 just across ‘Alligator Alley’.”

FLORIDA - Parkinson’s Foundation South Palm Beach County Chapter to Host ‘Rock the Runway’ Fashion Show on Friday, January 19, 2018 at Boca Rio Golf Club

Who/What:

Parkinson’s Foundation South Palm Beach County Chapter will host its ‘Rock the Runway’ Fashion Show at the Boca Rio Golf Club on January 19, 2018. ‘Rock the Runway,’ chaired this year by Gail Milhous, is a fun evening of elegance featuring men’s and women’s fashions that helps to raise funds and awareness for Parkinson’s disease. Fashion items will be provided by Chukkers, Boca’s finest women’s specialty shop with clothing for all occasions, and European specialty men’s store Guy La Ferrera that sells brands such as Brioni, Ermenegildo Zegna, Zilli and Cole Haan. Exquisite and custom-made jewelry will be showcased by the 80-year-old, family-run Van Dell Jewelers.

When:

Friday, January 19, 2018

6:30

Where:

Boca Rio Golf Club

22041 Boca Rio Rd

Boca Raton, FL 33433

FLORIDA - Florida Panthers Announce Bokampers Return as the Official Watch Party Location

Who/What:

Hockey is back! The Florida Panthers have announced that Bokampers will return as the team’s official watch party location for the 2017-2018 season.

Want to watch Friday’s season opener surrounded by Panthers fans? We’ve got you covered. The first watch party will take place on Friday, Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at Bokampers in Plantation when the Panthers play their intrastate rivals the Tampa Bay Lightning in Tampa Bay. Bokampers will host seven watch parties throughout the Panthers season.

In addition to the action on TV, Bokampers will offer specials, giveaways, and games for guests including:

• $9.99 “Panther Burger”
• 5 for $15 Coors Light Buckets
• $7.99 New Amsterdam Doubles
• 10% Team Discount when in your Panther gear!

FLORIDA - PGA National Resort & Spa Announces Fall Golf Vacation Packages

Highlights Include Five Championship Courses, First-Class Amenities, Deluxe Accommodations 

(PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.) – PGA National Resort & Spa – the world-class vacation, meetings and golf destination – announces a trio of golf packages ideal for fun and relaxing fall getaways in South Florida.

PGA National is a golf lover’s dream. The legendary locale offers 90 holes of high-caliber golf on five courses including the famed Champion Course, home to the popular PGA TOUR Honda Classic and past host of the Ryder Cup, PGA Championship and several Senior PGA Championships. The resort’s superb Palmer Course reopens Nov. 1 after undergoing a renovation over the summer.