Festivals and charities have been taking full advantage of South Florida’s perfect weather this time of year, with a calendar packed with vibrant and meaningful events.
Recently, The Way Forward Foundation (formerly The Woody Foundation) hosted its annual Lobster Feast at the Coral Reef Yacht Club on Monday, Feb. 23 (traditionally a day the club is closed).
Countless lobsters were flown in for the spectacular evening, which over the years has helped the foundation distribute more than $1 million to programs that enhance the lives of individuals living with paralysis. These initiatives include free adaptive yoga classes, adaptive equipment lending programs, para-athlete sponsorships, and higher education scholarships.
Woody Beckham and the Beckham family warmly welcomed guests to the ever-growing event, which continues to bring together generous supporters eager to make a meaningful impact.
Among those enjoying the evening were many of Bill Beckham’s fellow Rotarians, including Rick and Margarita Tonkinson, Nicolas Eterovic, Yoli Woodbridge, Greg Petrino, Sally Baumgartner Goodman, Robin Shelly, Norby Rudel, Bill Quesenberry, and Mike and Maria Kesti. Also spotted in the crowd were Norma Jean Abraham, Trish and Dan Bell, Bill Gregory, and Pam Garrison.
In other culinary happenings, Chef Chris Valdes hosted the fifth annual EATZ by Chris Valdes at the newly renovated Loews Miami Beach Hotel. This invitation-only event brought together food lovers, influencers, and industry insiders ahead of the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival.
Guests were treated to bold, crave-worthy dishes curated by Chef Valdes alongside Loews Executive Chef Christopher Aguirre, plus a handpicked lineup of local chefs and restaurant partners.
Featured culinary experiences included offerings from Bistro Collins and The Sushi Bar, along with partners such as Florida Dairy Farmers, Mionetto Prosecco, The Florida Beef Council, Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard Restaurant & Bar, Bar Tulio’s, Birdie Bistro, and Arely PR.
Timed with the festival’s 25th anniversary, EATZ set the tone for a week celebrating flavor, creativity, and community in true Miami style.
Another standout event took place at The Biltmore Hotel, where the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosted its 15th annual Heart Disease Awareness Lunch Conference.
A panel of expert physicians shared valuable insights on heart health, followed by a lively fashion show presented by International Mall in Doral, part of Simon Malls.
International Mall general manager Maria Prado and marketing manager Sara Valega helped coordinate the stylish showcase. Among the featured retailers was Ximma, a unique incubator representing more than 30 designers. In fact, this writer was delighted to be a last-minute recruit, modeling one of Ximma’s beautiful dresses on the runway.
And speaking of beloved traditions, The Villagers Garden Tour once again attracted hundreds of guests on Mar. 7 for the nonprofit’s annual fundraiser. As always, the tour celebrated stunning landscapes, historic preservation, and community spirit. Look for more highlights from this cherished event in a future issue.
Finally, shout out to lots of birthdays celebrants this month including Dr. Hal Wanless, whose Valentine’s birthday served as a holiday party as well, and Cristina Lama Evensky who celebrated her big 50 with a lavish over-the-top party at her Gables home.
Dates to save on your calendar
Now through March – South Florida PBS Pharaoh Immersive Experience, at the Boynton Beach offices; for tickets, go to www.southfloridapbs.org pharaohs
Now through April – The Titanic Immersive Experience presented by South Florida PBS
Mar 10 – CGWC Gringo Bingo at Birdie Bistro on Granada Golf Course. $30 includes 13 cards and one drink; RSVP gloria@cnews.net; food available for purchase.
Mar. 12 – Coral Gables Bar Association Judicial Reception, EGPD Rooftop Terrace, 777 SW 37 Ave., Miami; contact Andrea Gonzalez at coralgablesbar@gmail.com for details.
Mar. 19 – Jazz Night & Arts Exhibition at Coral Gables Woman’s Club; 6:30 p.m.; RSVP to aguillen17@gmail.com
Mar. 27 – Tee Time under the Stars, $60 per person, golf with lighted holes, to benefit CGWC Children’s Dental Clinic, includes lite bites and wine and beer bar at Granada Golf Course.
Apr. 25 – 3:30 p.m., Doral West Dade Woman’s Club Trip on party bus to see Titanic Immersive Voyage in Boynton Beach at S. Florida PBS . $150 per person, for information, contact gloria@cnews.net
May 9 – CGWC Mothers Day Tea, www.coralgableswomansclub.org
In closing, remember to count your blessings, share a kind word and a smile, and make a difference.
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