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Next week: Boca Bacchanal benefits Boca Raton Historical Society

Posted on 20 April 2023 by JLusk

Michael Alexander, Vivian Rigatto at Boca Bacchanal Grand Tasting 2022. Photo by Jacek Photos.

Coming next week: The Boca Raton Historical Society will be hosting the always popular Boca Bacchanal, an annual weekend celebration of fine wine and food, slated for April 28-30, including four exclusive Vintner/Distiller Dinners and the always popular Grand Tasting, offering extraordinary tasting selections of wines, champagnes and whiskey, as well as generous samplings of signature dishes by celebrated local chefs.

This year’s event includes:

Friday, April 28, 7 p.m.

An exclusive BOCA BACCHANAL Distillers Dinner showcasing five exquisite whiskeys from The Macallan, hosted by The Boca Raton, located at 501 E. Camino Real inside the MB Supper Club. The food will be prepared and served by Andrew Roenbeck, director of Culinary Operations & Resort Executive Chef, and Peter Annewanter, executive chef of MB Supper Club and Flybridge.

Saturday, April 29, 7 p.m.

VINTNER DINNERS ARE SOLD OUT

Sunday, April 30 at The Addison

+ Noon to 1 p.m. / Two Special Sipping Seminars at 501 E. Camino Real, Boca Raton — spotlighting The Macallan Distillery in Scotland and California’s ZD Wines. The Macallan Scotch Whiskey will be represented by Brand Ambassador Katie Nahat, and will offer sample sips of The Macallan, Macallan Harmony Intense Arabica, Macallan Double Cask (15 years), and the Macallan Rare Cask 2022.

ZD Wines will be represented by National Sales Manager Teresa D’Aurizio, who will offer tastings of the vintner’s 2021 Chardonnay, 2021 Carneros Pinot Noir, 2019 Napa Cabernet, and the 2012 Library Cabernet.

+ 1 to 4 pm / The Grand Tasting, at The Addison, 2 East Camino Real, Boca Raton

Attendees will revel in generous samplings from such vintners and distributors as ZD Wines, Silver Oak, Twomey Cellars, Domaine Carneros, DAOU, St. Supéry Estate, Coppola, Hahn, Hope Family Wine, Luca Bosio, and many more.

Plus, there will be unforgettable taste sensations from AlleyCat, Atlantic Grille at The Seagate Hotel & Spa, Bazille at Nordstrom, Big in Japan, Blis Foods, Capital Grille, Gourmetphile, KakaoZON Ecuadorian Chocolate, Lemongrass Asian Bistro, Max’s Grille, Oceans 234, Poke Company, Ramen Lab Eatery, Sicilian Oven and six curated food stations presented by The Addison.

The Grand Tasting will also include a silent auction of exotic luxury items, including The Macallan James Bond 60^th Anniversary Release Decade I with four Lalique tumblers. The bottle packaging includes an original illustration of scenes from Goldfinger (1964), Thunderball (1965) and You Only Live Twice (1967). The timeless single malt was specifically developed to reflect both the enduring character of James Bond and the Scottish heritages shared by both 007 and The Macallan Distillery in Craigellachie, Scotland.

Another item in the silent auction will be The Macallan private tasting experience hosted by National Brand Ambassador Katie Nahat and featuring some of its most exclusive whiskies with a catered pairing—to be hosted in the home of the auction winner.

Other auction items include Holland America Cruise for two, a Salmanazar (9 liters) of Taittinger Brut La Française, Truchard Wine Tasting for 10, vacation on a solar yacht, luxurious hotel stays, and memorable restaurant experiences.

Tickets to The Macallen Distillers Dinner are $350 per person; tickets to The Grand Tasting are $125 per person; $160 including a Sipping Seminar.

For more information and to purchase tickets to BOCA BACCHANAL 2023, please visit www.BocaHistory.org.

Sponsors include Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC), The Addison, The Boca Raton, The Seagate Hotel & Spa, Boca Magazine, Publix, Crown Wine and Spirits, The Berman Group, BRiC and CP Partners, JM Family, Privaira Private Aviation, The Buzz Agency, Boca Chamber, BLIS, Atlas Event Rental, and more.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.BocaHistory.org.

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FLIFF to hold Oscars Party

Posted on 09 March 2023 by JLusk

With all the glitz and glamor of Hollywood’s biggest night, the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) rolls out the red carpet for their Awards Party in celebration of the 95th Academy Awards®, Sunday, March 12. Hosted by philanthropist and FLIFF’s Chairman of the Board, Steven Savor, the evening will be held at his magnificent waterway estate, Villa de Palma.

Corks pop at 7:00 p.m. with an open bar, great food, and live entertainment throughout the evening by Violin Vibes and Sunset Girls Band. You’ll not miss a moment of the Oscars® as, throughout the property, the “big night” will be televised on three jumbo outdoor screens, six large flat screens, and in the living room is a 13’ ft screen for Oscar enthusiasts.

Attire for the evening is black tie; evening gowns or cocktail apparel for the ladies, and tuxedos for men.

There is limited complimentary valet parking for cars with four occupants or more. Limousine and Uber transportation or carpooling is highly recommended.

Villa de Palma is located at 600 Isle of Palms, Fort Lauderdale 33301

Advance tickets are required and priced at $175 for non-FLIFF members/$125 for FLIFF members. Tickets are available to purchase now at www.fliff.com/awardsnight

FLIFF memberships offer exclusive benefits, including free movies, members-only parties, and year-round discounts. Inquire about FLIFF memberships at info@fliff.com

All proceeds benefit The Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit cultural organization.

The 38th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) takes place Nov. 3-12, 2022. Named one of the top destination film festivals in the nation by Moviemaker Magazine, FLIFF brings film talent from around the globe and audiences together to celebrate American Independent and International cinema. The festival screens over 150 films showcasing a diverse selection of genres, and champions both rising and renowned artists, including Florida filmmakers. www.fliff.com Follow on social media @fliffnmore #flifffest

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New Tuition-Free Pre-School to Open in Deerfield Beach

Posted on 03 August 2022 by JLusk

The City of Deerfield Beach announced a 10-year lease agreement with Bezos Academy to open a tuition-free, Montessori-inspired preschool in 2024, pending completion of construction. The Bezos Academy preschool will be located in the Center for Active Aging’s newly built childcare center.

“I am incredibly excited about this partnership and what it will mean to our community in the coming years. As a parent, I understand firsthand how education costs can impact the choices we make for our children. This partnership is a game changer for Deerfield Beach families who will now be able to give their little ones an early educational start without the financial burden,” said Mayor Bill Ganz. “Our City Commission made a commitment to the redevelopment of the Center for Active Aging because we know this special place serves our community in many critical ways. I am thrilled that the Bezos Academy also recognizes the possibilities of what can be accomplished.”

“We are thrilled to partner with the City of Deerfield Beach to offer an early learning solution at no cost to families in the community,” said Mike George, president of Bezos Academy. “Their Center for Active Aging shares our commitment to service and will foster the added benefits of intergenerational learning.”

The school, Bezos Academy – Deerfield Beach, will be located at 227 NW 2 St., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441. The school will feature two classrooms, follow a full-day, year-round schedule and is slated to open in 2024 after construction is complete. Updates to the opening date will be shared on the city’s website.

Families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level with children aged 3-4 are eligible to apply. Once the school opening date is set, more information and an application for the lottery-based selection process will be posted at www.bezosacademy.org.

Rendering of the soon-to-come Center for Active Aging. The childcare facility is located to the left. Plans for that facility will be expanded to accommodate more children. Courtesy of the City of Deerfield Beach,

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JA World Uncorked Raises $300,000 for Junior Achievement

Posted on 05 February 2022 by JLusk

Dressed in Disco style, promoting Eve on the Water, a new Ft. Lauderdale restaurant.

By Rachel Galvin

The JA World Uncorked event this year seemed packed with lively guests, all excited to be back in the public eye. As usual, there were plenty of pours and delectable samples from wine and drink purveyors and local chefs. There was even live entertainment and people got up on the stage to get into the groove. People could also participate in the silent auction, raffles and more. A roaming photographer and a 360 photo booth captured the fun.

The event, which brought in about 500 guests, raised more than $300,000 for Junior Achievement programs. The presenting sponsor was Breakthru Beverage Florida. The event was amplified by the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. These were just a few of the many people and organizations involved in making this annual event shine.

If you missed it this year, make sure to look out for it next year when it is sure to be bigger and even better.

For more information, visit www.jasouthflorida.org.

Delicious pasta and meatballs from Cafe Vico in Ft. Lauderdale.

Funky Buddha offers candied bacon and craft beer.	Showing off Onda pineapple tequila seltzer.	silent auction.
Yot’s famous smoked fish dip.	The dance floor in Disco style.	Serving up Blue Ice Vodka.
Cuba Libre had several selections available.	Cafe Rumba mixed with root beer tastes like a root beer float!	The band rocked!

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American Rescue Plan Projects Approved by City Commission

Posted on 13 December 2021 by JLusk

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, also called the COVID-19 Stimulus Package or American Rescue Plan (ARP), is a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill passed by the 117th United States Congress and signed into law by President Biden on March 11, 2021.

Cities with populations over 50,000 (metropolitan cities) and all counties that are units of general local government (which includes political subdivisions) shall receive direct payments from the U.S. Treasury. Smaller cities (non-entitlement units of local government) with populations under 50,000 shall receive the State’s allocations. The City of Deerfield Beach is receiving a direct allocation from the U.S. Treasury in the amount of $16.28 million. Costs must be incurred from March 2021 to December 31, 2024.

Over the past several months, staff from respective departments within the City and City Administration met to discuss potential projects that would have a lasting and positive impact on the City of Deerfield Beach. Government Services Group (GSG) the City Consultant assisted the City in the selection process of the projects; culminating a spending plan that addresses the needs of the community while mitigating risk and maximizing impact. An initial risk-weighting has been assessed on all projects based on allowability under the current guidelines outlined in the Interim Final Rule and the risk and impact of potential claw-back of funds from the U.S. Treasury.

On Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at the City Commission Meeting City Staff and GSG recommend thirty-two (32) projects to Commission for approval. The City Commission approved all the projects through resolution 2021/169.

The City plan will continue to evolve as the U.S. Treasury clarifies the American Rescue Plan Act. Over the next 36 months U.S. Treasury will likely issue numerous guidance updates. The recommended list of projects is considered provisional until the Final Rule has been released and the proposed programs reviewed for compliance and allowability.

Upon the Treasury issuing the Final Rule, the City will have a clearer guide to both the allowability and risk of the proposed projects and will reassess the spending plan as needed.

A copy of the City of Deerfield Beach American Rescue Plan is located on the City’s website at https://www.deerfield-beach.com/1880/Public-Notices.

For additional information please contact the Community Services Department at (954) 480-6420 or VWyatt@deerfield-beach.com.

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Kirk Cottrell Pavilion Call to Artists

Posted on 11 May 2021 by JLusk

The City of Deerfield Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (DBCRA) would like to commission an artist to install a set of murals at the Kirk Cottrell Pavilion.

The recently completed Kirk Cottrell Pavilion was designed to give patrons a unique beachfront recreational experience through water sports, youth recreation camps, sporting events and hands on learning in an on-site classroom. Space in the pavilion has been set aside for a public art installation.

In April, the CRA posted a public survey that yielded over 180 responses in favor of a mural style public art installation. Survey responses further revealed a public preference for art that focused on oceanic awareness, beach sports, beach life or a combination of the three.

This is a significant opportunity for the selected artist as he/she will be installing two 7’x8’ murals on one of the most visible locations at the pavilion. The artist will have the freedom to interpret the themes based on a preliminary outline and final design approval from the CRA Board of Directors.

This is a paid commission with an award amount of $7,500 . The Public Art Committee will shortlist 3 finalists to be presented to the Community Redevelopment Agency Board for final artist selection.

Artists that wish to submit to the call must email the CRA to receive submission details. The artist will be responsible for all materials, equipment, additional staff and other associated fees and expenses. Artists must be 16 years or older to be considered .

The deadline to submit for the call is Tuesday, May 25th by 12:00PM.

The CRA would like to thank the Deerfield Beach Island Community Association for sponsoring this commission and for their generosity and support of Public Art in the District.

If you wish to submit to the call, please email the CRA at atemple@deerfieldbeach.com . Any additional questions please contact the City of Deerfield Beach CRA at 954-495-5430.

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Incumbent District 3 Commissioner retains position

Posted on 10 March 2021 by JLusk

Bernie Parness

In the March 9 Municipal Election, District 3 Commissioner Bernie Parness retained his position over Richard Rosenzweig, who originally held the position before Parness took office. The count was 1063 (with 67.8% of the vote) for Parness and 504 (32.2%) for Rosenzweig.

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Sheriff Tony sworn in

Posted on 06 January 2021 by JLusk

Broward County Sheriff Gregory Tony took the Oath of Office on Jan. 5.

He was elected in the most recent election but was originally appointed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2019 after he suspended former Broward Sheriff Scott Israel.

In a recent statement, Sheriff Tony said, “On Jan. 5, I will take the oath of office to continue serving as your sheriff. My swearing-in ceremony will be a much less extravagant affair than those of sheriffs’ past due to COVID-19 restrictions. Perhaps an intimate setting is more appropriate, regardless. The oath of office is a sacred trust. It is a promise I make to myself and my fellow first responders. It is also a promise I make to you.

“I recently removed the placard with my name on it from the front of my office door. I replaced it with a more suitable designation: “The People’s Office.” The sheriff and all the men and women of the Broward Sheriff’s Office work for you and our mission every day, to provide this county with the best public safety services in the country.

“When I assumed command of BSO nearly two years ago, I did so with the promise of putting public safety before all else. In just a short time, we’ve made significant progress in achieving our goals. Better training, better equipment and the introduction of new technologies mean Broward County is safer today.

“I have also worked with command staff and community leaders to create a more transparent and accountable sheriff’s office while providing public safety all residents can trust.

“I’ve appointed new members to the BSO Professional Standards Committee, including members from the community, to review internal disciplinary matters. I have established a Use of Force Review Board, the first ever in BSO’s history. I’ve made it clear time and again, I will never tolerate egregious use of force under my leadership.

“Our Social Justice Task Force recently met for the first time. The group, comprised of BSO employees, community stakeholders, organizers and leaders, will build relationships, gain trust and bridge the gap with the communities we serve. The task force will meet every other month to listen, learn and cooperate toward the shared goal of a safer, collaborative community.

“While we have achieved success, we can and will continue to do better. I will spend my next four years in office the same as my first two, working in the best interest of the people I serve.

“This year, I am establishing the BSO Office of Inspector General (OIG). The department will ensure BSO runs in the most efficient, economical and responsible way possible. The OIG will ensure misconduct allegations made against employees are thoroughly investigated, identify ways BSO can be more cost-efficient in all areas of operation and conduct independent reviews of every department within BSO to ensure we exceed public safety standards. This is just one more way BSO will be accountable and transparent.

“As we enter a new year, I want to say thank you. Thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility to lead BSO into the future. Thank you because this is your office as much as it is mine. Together, we will continue our great work and focus on taking the necessary steps toward keeping public safety a priority.”

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Rotary gives back, elects board for 2021-2022

Posted on 07 December 2020 by JLusk

Photo provided by Avis Swenson

The Rotary Club of Deerfield Beach is giving a $500 donation this holiday again to Gateway Community Outreach (pictured below) and Center for Active Aging.

In addition, they just announced their board members for 2021-2022. There was no election necessary as no other nominations came in.

2021-2022 New Board Members

President John Grimstad

President Elect and Past President Marcos Liberato

Secretary Val Hackett

Treasurer Donna Kirk

Board members: John Patterson, Enrique Palacios and Avis Swenson

Rotarians Avis Swenson & Val Hackett (right) present check to Gateway Community Outreach.

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Swearing In: School Board Elects some New Chairs, Board Members

Posted on 18 November 2020 by JLusk

On Tuesday, Nov. 17, The School Board of Broward County, Florida elected Dr. Rosalind Osgood, District 5, as Chair and Laurie Rich Levinson, District 6, as Vice Chair. The nominations and election took place during the SchoolBoard’s annual Organizational Meeting.

Chair Dr. Osgood has served on the School Board since 2012. She earned master’s and doctorate degrees in Public Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Osgood is a Broward County native and a Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) graduate of Fort Lauderdale High School.

Vice Chair Levinson was first elected to the School Board in 2010 to represent District 6. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Brandeis University. Levinson was born and raised in South Florida.

Also, on this day, the School Board welcomed two new members during its swearing-in ceremony.

Debra Hixon was sworn in to represent Countywide At-Large, Seat 9. Hixon began her education career with BCPS as a science teacher at Blanche Ely High School in 1989. She transferred to South Broward High School in 1994, where she most recently served as magnet coordinator for the Maritime/Marine Science & Technology magnet program.

Sarah Leonardi was sworn in to represent District 3. Leonardi began her education career with BCPS in 2014 at Coconut Creek High School, where she was voted Teacher of the Year in 2016. She is currently an English teacher at Nova High School, where she serves as coordinator for the Literary Fair.

Re-elected School Board Members Patricia Good, District 2, and Dr. Osgood, were also sworn in during today’s ceremony. Other School Board members currently serving terms include Lori Alhadeff, District 4; Donna P. Korn, Countywide, Seat 8; Ann Murray, District 1; and Nora Rupert, District 7.

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