Beyond the Snapshot: Hidden Meanings in Everyday Photographs – Boca Raton Museum of Art’s Latest Exhibition
By Rachel Galvin
A click of a shutter, a pop of a flash and a moment captured in time. A photograph is more than a picture. It is a tiny fragment of life itself. The visual medium may be two-dimensional but its meaning runs deep.
The new exhibition at the Boca Raton Museum of Art showcases the work of five artists: Sheila Pree Bright, Liesa Cole, Karen Graffeo, Spider Martin and Hank Willis Thomas. It includes photographs and installations that feature the themes of hidden meanings, truths and more. The works come from the collection of Doug McCraw. It was curated by Kathleen Goncharov, the museum’s Senior Curator.
“The Power of Photography: Myths, Secrets, Lies and Truths” presents five distinct voices that delve into and illuminate so many aspects of life,” says Irvin Lippman, the executive director of the Boca Raton Museum of Art. “Our thanks to Doug McCraw, who has built an extraordinary and stimulating collection that will facilitate insightful conversations.”
Sometimes, an advertisement is selling more than the product. Artist Hank Willis Thomas took a look at ads featuring African Americans and removed the verbiage, logos and any reference to the product, just leaving the imagery. By stripping down the ad to just the African Americans presented within them, he could get a sense of the opinion of the person creating the ad and of the culture and the stereotypes that led to the themes shown in the imagery. Then, he added new titles to further clarify the themes he saw being portrayed. His pieces lead to discussion of the history of race and how these types of stereotypes are still pervasive today.
Spider Martin, in contrast, created photographs that are meant to be seen in their entirety, black and white, nothing taken away, just the truth remains. The acclaimed photojournalist took photos during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. His powerful images spotlight the tension of real moments in American history, The passion of the protest, the violence in the moment, the profound and long-lasting impact of each experience were all captured by him. The moments that took place then continue to resonate now.
While his pictures focus on the experiences of African Americans, Sheila Pree Bright takes pictures of people of all backgrounds around the country, each posing with the American flag. This Young Americans series explores what it means to be an American and the feelings these young people have about the country. Not only are there photos, but also audio recordings expressing their feelings.
Artist Karen Graffeo goes outside the country for her photography. Her series focuses on daily life in Cuba. It’s amazing what can be told in a simple photo of a man walking next to a muraled wall. In her “Havana: The Weight of Life” piece, everything in the image signals melancholy, from the yellowed-face man looking down pensively as he walks by the wall’s yellow mural, complete with downturned black arrows raining down negativity. Everything seems to signal the hopelessness of the place yet the man hazards forward. In “Roma girl: no ticket, train of life,” a young brown-skinned girl is silenced by a large red arrow blocking part of her face, hiding her expression. Her outstretched hand against the glass could signal a cry for help. The warmth in her eyes signals slight sadness, a gentle humanity. Together, these symbols showcase the situation of the Roma people – human beings striving to live like everyone else, but left to fend for themselves against an oppressive society that puts them on the bottom of the social class. Yet, they strive forward. Even the smallest among them show strength, gentility and beauty. For 25 years, Graffeo has tried to give these peoples, also termed “Gypsies,” a voice, showing their courage and humanity.
Liesa Cole’s photographs, projections and installations are about those who share secrets and those who keep them. When does someone feel able to profess a secret? Who are the people you tell secrets to? In the middle of one of the rooms is her installation called “Repository of Secrets.” Made of foam and metal, it looks both artificial and natural at the same time, bright pink and beckoning visitors to step inside its twisted interior, almost like walking inside of an eardrum to hear what secrets have been shared. This intimate experience allows one person at a time and inside there are notecards where people can share secrets to later be read by others. It is a unique confessional. She includes pulsing light and a soft heartbeat to mimic a womb state, a warm and welcoming place where none shall be judged.
She also has an exhibition called “Truth,” a blown glass neon sculpture by Cole. It says Truth backwards and can only be seen properly in a mirror. She also has a video set up in a room by itself called “This is Life” filled with interesting imagery and stories being told. These are only a few of her pieces.
McGraw said he chooses art that is “very poignant to the political environment today and it creates great conversation and introspection,” adding, “All of these artist create great work with a powerful eye in creating the subject matter and the perspective presented.
“My collecting is a very eclectic process, think Louise Nevelson to John Waters. There has been a focus on Black southern and contemporary artists in the last 25 years. These include Thornton Dial, Lonnie Holley, the Gees Bend Quilters, Charlie Lucas, Willie Cole, Radcliffe Bailey, Renee Stout, Roscoe Hall, Sheila Pree Bright and Hank Willis Thomas, to name a few. I collect what visually engages me with a compelling story. The Black story in the South is a core theme in recent years.”
Asked if he has a favorite, he said, “Art is like children, it’s hard to pick a favorite. Each of these artists have created an insightful way of bringing a powerful message to life. Think of Liesa Cole’s neon piece of ‘Truth’ spelled backwards. ‘Only if we look in the mirror do we see the real truth.’”
He said he hopes the art “creates a dialogue and introspection of a conversation that is still as relevant in the current political environment as it was when it was created.”
He added, “I would like to add that I am grateful to the Boca Raton Museum of Art and want to thank Irvin Lippman, Martin Hanahan, Kathleen Goncharov and the staff who made the “magic” happen.”
“The Power of Photography: Myths, Secrets, Lies and Truths” will be on display until October 13 at The Boca Raton Museum of Art, at 501 Plaza Real in Mizner Park. For more information, visit www.bocamuseum.org.
Photos were taken by Rachel Galvin.
Art by Hank Willis Thomas 
Art by Hank Willis Thomas 
Art by Hank Willis Thomas 
Video by Liesa Cole 
Art by Liesa Cole 
Art by Liesa Cole 
Art by Sheila Pree Bright 
Art by Karen Graffeo 
Art by Karen Graffeo 
Art by Karen Graffeo 
Art by Karen Graffeo 
Art by Liesa Cole 
Art by Liesa Cole 
Art by Liesa Cole 
Art by Hank Willis Thomas
LGBTQ+ Leaders Honored with Retrospective
By Rachel Galvin
This week is your last chance to check out the Take Pride! 100-year retrospective of LGBTQ+ milestones. The exhibit consists of photos and videos showcasing important moments in history within the community. The exhibition opened May 30 with a kickoff celebration honoring local leaders:
- Robert Boo, CEO, The Pride Center at Equality Park
- Steven Evans, Ph.D., Owner & Publisher, OutClique magazine
- Misty Eyez, Transgender Advocate & Director, SunServe
- Mark Gilbert, Board Chair, OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival
- David Jobin, President & CEO, The Our Fund Foundation
- Jacqueline Lorber, President & CEO, South Florida Symphony Orchestra
- Erika Norell, Renowned Entertainer
- Shawn Palacious (Kitty Meow), Celebrity Host and Entertainer
- Andy Rogow, Artistic Director, Island City Stage
- Josie Smith Malave, Former “Top Chef” Contestant & Owner, Bubbles + Pearls
The event was emceed by FayWhat?! of the “FayWhat?! Show” and included performances by Velvet Lenore and Vauz Allen with music by DJ Jay McCracken of Spiked Entertainmment. Mayor Dean Trantalis issued a proclamation as well.
The event was presented by History Fort Lauderdale and sponsored by Galleria Fort Lauderdale, Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, OutClique, HotSpots Media Group/Happening Out Television Network, Holy Cross Health, JM Family Enterprises, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood and GPR | Goodman Public Relations. Additional funding was provided in part by Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward County Cultural Council, Visit Lauderdale – Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Institute of Museum and Library Services and The Our Fund Foundation.
All photos by Rachel Galvin
Film Spotlight: “Thelma”
By Rachel Galvin
When an unsuspecting 93-year-old Thelma Post (played by June Squibb) gets scammed over the phone, she takes justice into her own hands and tracks down the perpetrator herself. She ends up setting off on a dangerous epic adventure that leaves her family unawares and worried, bringing her very hesitant friend Ben (the late Richard Roundtree) along for the ride.
This lighthearted film, directed by Josh Margolin, has plenty of laughs as well as tender moments. The audience is left cheering on the fiesty grandma and laughing at many funny moments along the way. It really is a fun film that can be enjoyed by all.
The film also includes well-known actors such as Clark Gregg and Parker Posey, as well as Malcolm McDowell, and others. Fred Hechinger plays Thelma’s grandson.
The movie was actually based on a true story. Margolin’s own grandma, also named Thelma Post, found herself in a similar situation. She has the same fiesty spirit, although she did not really go after the scammer in real life. The family was able to intervene before she took action. But Margolin imaginatively took the next step. What would his grandma have done if they had not intervened?
Asked how he got into the art of filmmaking, Margolin said, “You know, I think from an early age, I just always loved making things. Secondly, I could kind of get my hands on a video camera, I was making shorts with my friends and editing them and putting them together.” He said through his life, it has been a passion. “You know, my background is in performing, but it’s also writing and editing, and kind of, you know, wearing a lot of those different hats.”
The apple does not fall far from the tree. Margolin’s grandfather, named Ted Post, was also in the business. He directed such classics as “Gunsmoke,” “Hang Em High, ” “Rawhide” and “Beneath the Planet of the Apes,” and many others. Unfortunately, Margolin said he did not get a chance to really see his grandfather work. By the time he was into filmmaking, his grandfather was in his 80s and 90s. He added, “Watching movies at my grandparents house is a really important memory for me of just a place and an activity that just made me feel at home and creatively excited. So, I think I associated still conversations with him, and them, as a part of my introduction to loving what I love, but I also think somehow it was maybe just in our DNA, something that we were drawn to for one reason or another. But I’ve always loved it.”
Margolin did study theater in college and worked on acting here and there and film projects. “I was always also writing and making web series or short films, or editing somebody else’s, or writing with a group of pals,” he said. He came from an Improv background and he utilized some of those principals when making the film. “I love seeing a joke or an idea planted earlier in order to pay off later … you know, reemerge as a call back. I got that really drilled into me doing Improv. I was trying to find ways to sort of carry those threads through and have them pay off in fun or unexpected ways. And so, I think that that mindset or that way of thinking about story and character in just sort of joke structure was definitely something that guided me. I always love when it feels kind of off the cuff and naturalistic, and sounds like people talking, but is able to be sort of punctuated and heightened a little bit too,” he said. “Thelma” was the first film he wrote on his own and he felt he rea
“Thelma” was the first film he wrote on his own and he felt he really needed to direct it because it was a story he felt passionately about and he knew how he wanted to tell it. “I’m glad I had worn so many different hats throughout my 20s because being able to be a performer and an editor and a writer, I think probably helped prepare me for being able to be in the director’s role and to do so with some confidence,” said Margolin.
One of the challenges he has faced is the audience being dubious of the main character, an action hero, being a senior citizen. But with June, he really hit the jackpot. “We got really lucky with June,” he said. “She is such a consummate pro and set the bar so high for everyone else. She was the sharpest and had the best energy. And so was Richard … really, really lovely, warm guy, and kind of lit up the set every time he was there.” Squibb actually did her own stunts in the movie, although they had a double on stand-by. She loved being on the scooter. “I think anytime June was on the scooter was always just a wild time. I think honestly anytime June was on that thing was a little bit nerve wracking, if I’m being honest, but also kind of really fun to see her have as much fun on it as she did. I think she just she really came alive on that scooter,” he said.
Before Thelma goes on her adventure, she happens to watch some scenes of Tom Cruise in “Mission Impossible.” Asked if he needed permission for that footage, he said, “We did have to get permission. And we were we were really lucky. Actually, we basically got Tom’s permission, which was very, very cool of him to to let us use it. We went to him actually first and then we went to Paramount once we’d gotten his okay.” His process may have been unorthodox, but it worked. He sent Cruise the scene and some footage and a Zoom table read so he was able to get a sense of it. “Lucky for us,” he said. “he gave us the okay, which was very cool.”
Because he was dealing with such professionals on set, Margolin said he felt more at ease with the process. Another challenge he faced was very strict COVID protocols, even though this was filmed in 2022. And they wanted to make sure everyone had the energy to continue. He said, the actors “met us more than halfway and and brought just everything that we’d hoped they would bring.” Still, they made sure the shooting schedule was not too long for June, for example, trying to wrap her scenes as quickly as possible.
The movie was shot in Los Angeles, largely in the valley, in North Hollywood, Burbank and Sherman Oaks. “We actually ended up also filming a little bit on the west side of town and in my grandma’s real condo. She was living with my parents at the time,” he said. He felt shooting there really tied the character into his grandmother, being that it was so full of elements of her life. “That, to me, felt very evocative of her and her spirit and character.” He called it “weird, but cool.”
Asked what he would do differently if he had to do it over again, he said, “It depends on the day. Some days, I’m like, ‘Oh, my God, I would do everything differently.’ And other days, I’m like, ‘Oh, I feel pretty happy with how we got this, this and this.’ At the end of the day, the thing I would do differently would be going into the process with the knowledge that there are going to be things you can control and things you can’t, and being sort of at peace with navigating that really early.”
When it came to working with actors, he sometimes was able to be more hands off and other times work more with the actor. “I think it was really both honestly; it was a mix. And I think it very dependent on the actor, depending on the scene. I definitely had a very specific tone I wanted the movie to hit in terms of making sure we didn’t tip too broad, and you’re really playing things honestly and playing them straight, and trying to keep the stakes alive and carry the authenticity of it even amidst some of the drama stuff. For me, often it was just about making sure people felt in the same universe, and we felt like we were playing it with that level of honesty and that pitch. It is about trusting the people you’ve hired, and also not being afraid to guide to be helpful…”
“Thelma” premiered at Sundance, but it has screened elsewhere, such as Cleveland, Sarasota and Philadelphia, as well as the Miami Film Festival and Savor Cinema, and will have other upcoming screenings. But it will be showing theatrically June 21. For more information, visit www.magpictures.com/thelma.
DAER Goes Retro with Studio54
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crossorigin="anonymous"></script>Stepping into DAER Nightclub at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL on May 18 was like stepping back in time… A multi-colored haze hung over the partygoers decked out in their retro fashions. This night was a chance to go back to the 1970s for a special Studio 54 party put on by the FLITE Center once again. And this evening, somehow, was even better than the year before. Dance lovers showed off their best disco moves in every free space available and swarmed the stage. Others grabbed a drink at the open bar, mingled and engaged in some heavy people-watching. There were plenty of ways to capture the moment, including numerous photo opps. And there was swag aplenty. Not only did people leave with swag bags, but there were also a ton of toiletries that they could take home from toothbrushes to bandaids, and candy too.
But the highlight of the evening was the entertainment, as “Donna Summer,” aka Velvet Lenore, took the stage and “Cher,” aka Michael Dean, rocked the house, even walking through the crowd of fans.
Although the event was plenty of fun, it also benefited a serious cause. The FLITE Center is a one-stop resource center offering supportive services to youth aging out of foster care, chronically homeless youth, human trafficking survivors and LGBTQ+ youth. The event raised more than $101,500. One of the women who once benefited from the program now works for the organization and she had a chance to talk with the crowd about the importance of the FLITE Center.
People could participate in several ways to benefit the cause, including through the raffle, which had excellent prizes, from packages to trips. Luxury Raffle Item Winners: Private Flight to Key West & Lunch for 2 (Donated by Premier Aircraft — $3,000 value): Winner: Silvia Isaacs; Lifestyle Mag. Full-page Ad (Donated by Lifestyle Media Group — $7,500 value): Winner: Travis Pfeffer; The Suite Life Experience (Donated by DEX Imaging — $2,000 value): Winner: Leonard Piojda Jr.; South Florida Business & Wealth 2-page Spread (Donated by Lifestyle Media Group — $11,940 value): Winner: Richard Hopper; Donated by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino — Midweek Bora Bora Cabana Experience @ Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Guitar Hotel Pool ($2,550 value): Winner: Tiffani Dhooge; Weekend Bora Bora Experience @ Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Guitar Hotel Pool ($5,220 value): Winner: Dionne Absheer; “Party Like A Rock Star” Guitar Basket ($950 value): Winner: Linda Parker; Winterfest Boat Parade Grand Marshal Experience ($1000 value): Winner: David Griffiths; Rock Spa Basket: Winner: Travis Pfeffer
“STUDIO 54 Rewind” was presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood and sponsored by Memorial Healthcare System, Bank of America, Broward Health, Waterfall Bank, Walgreens, SouthState Bank, Synovus, GPR | Goodman Public Relations, “OUTClique,” Coldwell Banker Realty Cares Foundation, Dex Imaging, GrayRobinson, Premiere Aircraft Sales, Strategic Benefits and Tower Club. Media sponsors are Lifestyle Media Group and “South Florida Business & Wealth.” In-kind sponsors include Muscle Vodka, Funky Buddha Brewery, Lyres Prosecco, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Papa’s Pilar Rum Ernest Hemingway, Southern Glazer Wine & Spirits, Todd’s Catering and Covar Global Marketing.
The event was so amazing that people did not want it to end so they headed downstairs to PLA Sports Bar for the after party. They also could partake in all the fun that the Hard Rock provides.
Missed this year? There is always next year, so get your disco outfit ready. For more information on the FLITE Center, visit flitecenter.org.
“The Lost Virginity Tour”
By Rachel Galvin
Tough as nails Viola McGee (Sharon Pfeiffer) caused a tussle with fellow Happy Trails Baking Club member Kitty Warmerdam (Betty Ann Hunt Strain) and kicked her to the curb quite literally. This becomes the topic of the meeting as other members Elaine Matthews (Elise Levine) and Rita Hanson (Raven Adams) listen attentively to the conflict in between sharing cookie samples. Just as it seems like the mediocrity of their day to day lives may be all there is, McGee poses a brilliant plan… a road trip to all the spots where each has lost their virginity. It seems oxymoronic to their humdrum existence but this change of pace is exactly what they all need. And it comes complete with T-shirts.
But these “Golden Girls” find the journey not to be all fun and games. It seems that each has been holding on to a secret, which they hesitantly reveal one by one. The laughter moves into heartache and the revelations bring the foursome closer together.
The play, called “The Lost Virginity Tour,” held at the Delray Beach Playhouse, May 3-19, started out simple but got much more complex. One moment pulled at the heart strings while the next left the audience in stitches. With a wide emotional range for each character, the play really gives each actress something to sink their teeth into, and each dive into their parts with gusto.
The biggest comic relief throughout came in the form of hot pants and leopard top wearing Sharon Pfeiffer as McGee, which is more impressive due to the fact that this is Pfeiffer’s first time in this type of theatrical role, having dialogue in almost every page of the script, so much so that she had a swing on two of the nights, just in case, played by Francie Friedman. Pfeiffer is known locally as being a stand up comedian and independent film actress, and she played opposite Matthew McConaughey in the movie “Beach Bum.” Despite her prowess as a comedienne, she brought a tender moment in the play home causing many in the audience and Pfeiffer herself to shed a tear. And McGee let her armor down and showed her vulnerability.
Each actress has plenty of experience in the industry and had a chance to showcase their skill through the retelling of their tales in the play. Adams, who has worked on Off-Broadway, television shows, commercials and soap operas, had a hilarious moment recounting her loss of virginity in a chaotic romp among unusual circumstances and involving a fire extinguisher. Strain has a long history in the theater and showed her skill as she told the tale of having to leave her first love due to parental pressures. Levine, who also reveals losing her love, started out as a litigation attorney and a financial recruiting specialist before returning to her roots as an actress.
A slideshow of pictures of the foursome provided the perfect transition between tour stops and a slow motion selfie-filled scene reenacting the car ride in the convertible was also clever.
Before the play even began, director Jeremy Quinn spoke to the audience and instructed them on certain theater etiquette, including not leaving quickly after curtain call. He did not have to worry about that as, not only did people stay, but many gave a standing ovation.
To find out more about the Delray Beach Playhouse, visit www.DelrayBeachPlayhouse.com.
Soul Speak: Miami Dances Celebrates the Art of Movement
Pictured: Ballet Vero Beach performing “Finch Concerto.” Photo by Rachel Galvin
Story By Rachel Galvin
A step, a leap, a pas de bourree … no matter the movements, dance has the ability to convey emotion, tell a story and make your heart leap … Soul stirring and evocative, this artistic expression takes many forms.
For the 2nd year, the event entitled Miami Dances showcased a wide variety of genres of dance over a two-day period… from foot-stomping flamenco to graceful ballet, from thought-provoking modern pieces to more classical renditions. And on the final night, Karen Peterson & Dancers touched hearts with inclusive numbers featuring dancers with and without disabilities moving together as one.
This year’s event took place May 10-11 at the Sandrell Rivers Theater, at 6103 NW 7th Avenue in Miami. Each night included seven performances, and before they began, there was a performance in the lobby.
Following the performances, the choreographers had a chance to speak and answer questions at the end. They also handed out surveys and each one had a number that was automatically entered into a raffle for prizes.
In addition, they had a master dance class on May 5 with Christina Johnson and John Harnage.
Once again, Miami Dances found a way to spotlight performers while inspiring attendees with multicultural and inclusive dance numbers.
To find out more about the event, which was hosted by Miami Dance Hub, visit miamidancehub.com.
Photos were taken on May 11, by Rachel Galvin
Stepanie Perez & Rafael Ruiz-del-Vizo 
Marjorie Burnett & Sun Young Park 
Adam Eckstat, Sun Young Park, Marjorie Burnett & Nareika Masla 
Remina Tanaka & Kristy Walker 
Natanael Leal 
Ballet Vero Beach 
Randolph Ward & Durante Verzola 
Enrique Villacreses & Clarita Filguieras 
Choreographers speak Sunday night 
Raffle time 
Syncopate Collective 
Ballet Vero Beach
Film Review: South Florida says hello to “Adios, Buenos Aires”
By Rachel Galvin
The passionate and romantic music of Tango plays a pivotal role in the film ‘Adiós Buenos Aires.’ Playing its melodies, imbued with Argentinean history and culture, brings together a group of friends who find solace and sustenance through its rhythms. Their music is set in contrast to the backdrop of the social unrest in the outside world.
The movie is set during the 2001 economic crisis and everyone is struggling. There is rioting, looting and people clanging pots and pans in the streets. People are hungry, barely making ends meet. The stress is palpable, and people are leaving the country. Those faithful to Argentina no matter the cost classify those who emigrate as traitors.
Julio Farber, played by Diego Cremonesi, is a bandeneon player in the band, and he finds himself in the middle of conflicts on all fronts. With his brothers in music, he too appears to commiserate with the faithful, but secretly he has made other plans – to emigrate to Germany.
He had experienced the strife of daily life, struggling to make it as a musician, shoe salesman and divorced dad. But leaving, he finds, is not so easy. The dominoes are not falling into place for him. In contrast, one by one, everything is falling apart. He has battles on the homefront with his daughter, problems with his bandmates over his decision to leave and one final blow delivered by the government enough to make him question whether he ever will be able to leave. He also finds himself hit – quite literally – by another persistent conflict … a mouthy female taxi driver who becomes entangled in his life in an unexpected way.
Another reason for Farber not to leave is the newest addition to their band, an older man, who has found his own new lease on life by being a part of the group. Farber leaving threatens to upend their future.
Will this man torn asunder by circumstances beyond his control steer the ship toward brighter shores and escape his current peril or will he stand against a sea of troubles in hope to end them? Find out this weekend when the film comes to South Florida for a series of special screenings.
The film will be shown on Friday, May 10 at the Coral Gables Art Cinema, at 260 Aragon Ave. in Coral Gables, FL at 7 p.m. There will be a Special Tango Showcase performed by Rocio Leguizamón and German Filipeli. For more information, visit www.gablescinema.com.
On Saturday, May 11, the film will be shown at Cinema Paradiso, at 2008 Hollywood Blvd, in Hollywood, FL, with a reception and screening. Then, on Sunday, May 12, the film will be shown at Savor Cinema, at 503 SE 6 Street, in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. For more information, visit www.fliff.com.
Director German Kral said, “My hope and the hope of all my cast and crew is that ‘Adiós Buenos Aires’ will move and entertain the audience, and bring them to tears and to laughs. [Considering] the reactions of the audience in New York, I have the feeling that we achieved what we wanted. People left the cinema with tears in the eyes and a beautiful smile in their faces.”
Photos courtesy of Outsider Pictures II LLC
Derby Party at Savor Cinema
By Rachel Galvin
Ladies in fine hats and men in their finery all came out to celebrate the 150th run for the roses at Savor Cinema in Ft. Lauderdale on May 4. Handsome horses and glamorous ladies greeted guests ready for photo opps on the red carpet before they went onto the patio to partake in the fun.
The annual derby party held on the patio included an open bar, cuisine and live entertainment. People could have a mint julep, dance and buy a raffle ticket to vote for their favorite horse to possibly win a prize. Then, once the horses lined up, people came inside to watch the race. And it was a photo finish with Mystik Dan winning in the end. Also, prizes were given out for the winning horse and also best dressed male and female and best hat. The event was sold-out and the packed crowd had a wonderful time.
This is one of Savor Cinema’s premier events every year. Savor Cinema is the headquarters for the Ft. Lauderdale International Film Festival. But they also have films year-round. For more information, visit www.fliff.com.
Raffle winner 
Best hat 
Best dressed woman 
Best dressed man
Step Back in Time at “Studio 54 Rewind”– MAY 18
Ever wish you could turn back time? If you could only find a way… Well, you can at Studio 54 Rewind!
Step onto the dance floor at this disco party at DAER Nightclub at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood on Saturday, May 18, from 6 – 10 p.m.
All the cool kids will be there… and so will the stars. Enjoy performances by Michael Dean as Cher and Velvet Lenore as Donna Summer. Grab gourmet bites or a delicious drink at the open bar, take some photo ops and get into the groove!
Proceeds from the event benefit FLITE Center programs and services, which provide young adults with resources and support to help them transition to independent living. FLITE Center is a one-stop resource center offering all supportive services to youth aging out of foster care, chronically homeless youth, human trafficking survivors, and LGBTQ+ youth.
“Last year’s STUDIO 54 fundraiser was a smashing success so we are rewinding back and planning another amazing event,” said Christine Frederick, FLITE Center CEO. “ We can’t wait to collaborate with Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood to create this next chapter which will raise much needed funds for the important work that we do at FLITE Center.”
“STUDIO 54 Rewind” co-chairs are Susan Renneisen, vice president of community affairs and special events at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and Julie Williamson-Bresset, senior vice president and private client advisor with Bank of America.
Frederick added, “On behalf of all of us at FLITE Center, we offer our sincere thanks to Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood and our committed partners, both companies and individuals, for their ongoing support.
“STUDIO 54 Rewind” is presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood and sponsored by Memorial Healthcare System, Bank of America, Broward Health, Waterfall Bank, Walgreens, SouthState Bank, Synovus, GPR | Goodman Public Relations, OUTClique, Coldwell Banker Realty Cares Foundation, Dex Imaging, GrayRobinson, Premiere Aircraft Sales, Strategic Benefits and Tower Club. Media sponsors are Lifestyle Media Group and South Florida Business & Wealth. In-kind sponsors include Muscle Vodka, Funky Buddha Brewery, Lyres Prosecco, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Papa’s Pilar Rum Ernest Hemingway, Southern Glazer Wine & Spirits, Todd’s Catering and Covar Global Marketing.
General admission tickets start at $150; VIP tickets are $250 each and can be purchased at flitecenter.org/Rewind54.
For more information on the FLITE Center, visit flitecenter.org.
ABOUT FLITE Center
PICTURES FROM LAST YEAR:
Big Easy Bound — More than just Mardi Gras
By Rachel Galvin
Want to go to the Big Easy but have no clue what to see? Sure, you know that Mardi Gras has plenty of parties taking over the streets, parades and revelry every year, but what about when the krewes go home? It can be difficult to do anything but join in on the festivities during the biggest party time of the year, but for those who want to check out what New Orleans has to offer after the party has subsided, here are some suggestions.
You may be aware that New Orleans can be a rather spooky place. Built in 1718, the town can appear quite haunted. There are plenty of ghost tours to fill you in on the resident ghosts. Try Free Tours By Foot (freetoursbyfoot.com). This offers a knowledgeable local guide who will show you around the town and tell tales of woe of those who once walked the streets in this historic town. The best part about this tour company is that you pay what you want! You do have to reserve a spot and there is a booking fee however; and if you are late, they will call you, and you will get dirty looks from the group who has all been waiting on you (I know from personal experience). Our tour guide regaled us with stories of the people who lived in the homes of the French Quarter and some of the mysterious and downright gorey details off what took place there.
Besides ghost tours, there are also voodoo tours and even cemetery tours, as there are many above ground cemetery stones that have become a focal point for many tourists in town. Take the trolley to one of the many graveyards.
Speaking of history, the massive National World War II museum (nationalww2museum.org) is a must-see for history-buffs. Just plan on spending multiple hours (or days!) going through room after room of very detailed history of every campaign of the war. This interactive museum experience begins when you walk in. The first thing you are able to do is pick up a dog tag and step into a train to register the tag, which will be associated with a particular veteran. After that, you will be able to track his or her experience throughout the war as you walk through the exhibit. This is optional and does take extra time before you even get to the exhibits. Not doing it certainly will not detract from your experience however.
The museum can be quite overwhelming and uses a variety of interactive and multisensory experiences to draw you into the conflict, learning about all the theaters of the war, the social impact, the major players and the battles. They utilize visuals, elaborate staging of props to look as though you are on the scene, audio documentation, documents, videos and more. The depth of coverage is mind-blowing.
Make sure to take time to watch the Tom Hanks narrated movie “Beyond All Boundaries” in their Solomon Victory Theater. It is worth it, This is not your average movie. It is 4-D with multiple movie screens, pop up scenery and unexpected 4-D elements that really keep it exciting while delivering even more information.
They also have the USS Tang Submarine Experience where guests can relive the last battle of the submarine during the war. Also ask about their Expressions of America nighttime immersive and educational sound and light show.
Once you are done perusing all of the museum, feel free to ask the volunteer curators some questions. They are happy to help.
The historic St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square (stlouiscathedral.org) is also a great place to stop. Built originally in 1727, the building had a fire and was rebuilt, eventually completed in 1794. It is beautiful inside and out. Just outside of its doors, many buskers make a home, drawing large crowds. Make sure to go across the street and have a beignet and chicory coffee from Cafe Du Monde (cafedemonde.com). There may be a line, but it usually goes pretty quickly, and stopping there is a rite of passage. Not far away, you can jump on a steamboat and take a look at New Orleans via water.
There are so many wonderful places to eat in town that showcase the flavors of New Orleans. Try some etoufee or jambalaya, or oysters, or poboys or gumbo and more. Try Felix’s Oyster House (felixs.com) for some great service and lowkey dining. There will be a long wait most assuredly.
For a special occasion, try the elegant and historic Antoine’s Restaurant (antoines.com). Built in 1840, the family-owned restaurant is where Oysters Rockerfeller were first invented. This fine food establishment has been visited by dignitaries from President Roosevelt to President Clinton, to Pope John Paul II and plenty of Hollywood celebrities like Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt and many more. Their photos are on the wall. The place is huge with 14 rooms. They even have a Mystery Room, which used to be a speakeasy during Prohibition.
Nearby at Hotel Monteleone (hotelmonteleone.com), check out the carousel bar. Since 1949, it has been the only rotating bar in New Orleans. Since it is so popular, be prepared to wait to get a seat.
Make sure to stop by Pat OBrien’s (patobriens.com). This is a real happening place, squeeze yourself into the frey and check out the fun. Sing along with dueling pianists, grab a drink and look up at more than 500 beer steins mounted on the ceiling or check out their flaming fountain.
Preservation Hall (PreservationHall.com) is a great historic place to catch some Jazz, although you may find wandering jazz musicians throughout the city. And this is just one place to listen to music, since music is the lifeblood of this very active place. Just walking around Frenchman Street will have plenty of places to pop into and hear some great tunes.
Whether you walk through the French Quarter or Garden District, or Royal Street, or beyond, you will be overcome by a sense of history and so many places to explore. If you are looking for gifts to take home, don’t worry – there are gift shops almost literally on every corner, and most of them have the same products. A good spot to shop is the French Market, which has plenty to choose from. Although they have some food available, there are also restaurants nearby.
If you have a car, you may want to venture outside the city and visit a plantation. Try the Oak Alley Plantation (oakalleyplantation.org). About an hour’s drive from New Orleans, this is a site that will take awhile to explore. Guests are greeted by double rows of huge oak trees along the main road leading up to The Big House. Guests can get a guided tour to learn this history of the place, which was a sugar cane plantation. Guests can walk around on their own and see the slave quarters or learn about how sugar cane was harvested and made into sugar. There are many areas to explore among the sprawling lawns and gardens. Make sure to stop by the small restaurant on property for a delicious meal before you go home. This is just one of many plantations in the area.
With so many places to visit, New Orleans is not a place you come to just once. You will want to return again and again to enjoy all aspects of this always lively historic hot spot.
*Information subject to change
Grab a beignet from Cafe Du Monde. 
Listen to performers sing their heart out. 
Visit St. Louis Cathedral. 
Enjoy a meal at Antoine’s Restaurant. 
Hop a trolley. 
Learn about history at the National History Museum 
The Oaks Alley Plantation has much history… 