By: Skip Sheffield
Friday, March 30, is the date Kim Cavendish has been working toward for the past year: the 17th annual Museum of Discovery & Science Wine & Culinary Celebration, held at the Museum at 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. VIP admission ($150) is 6 p.m. and general admission ($85) is 7:30 p.m.
The Wine & Culinary Celebration is one of two major fundraisers of the museum, which began very modestly in temporary quarters in the New River Inn in 1977. Cavendish, a Boca Raton resident, is the museum’s president and CEO. She first became involved with the museum in 1981 and she was a major force in the campaign to build a permanent structure at the present site, which opened in 1992, so in all she has been part of the museum for more than 25 years.
“I can hardly believe it’s been 20 years,” marvels Cavendish. “The Museum of Science & Discovery is the work of so many people. I am just one. There is nothing like it around here that serves children and adults. It has become a source of pride for the whole area.”
An EcoDiscovery Center addition completed this past year almost doubled the size of the facility, which also houses the largest IMAX theater screen in South Florida. A new project is in the works for a science park in what is now a north parking lot.
“The IMAX Theater gave us critical mass as a destination,” Cavendish offers. “We offer everything from first-run tent-pole Hollywood movies to science and nature documentaries and concert movies like the Rolling Stones and U2.”
Food for the area will be supplied by some 40 hotels and restaurants. In addition to a white variety of wines, there will be a martini reception from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and a special rum presentation by Southern Wine & Spirits. Big 105.9 radio personality Paul Castronovo will have a special presentation of his Italian vineyard at 8:15 p.m.
“This is not your typical local food and wine event,” declares Cavendish. “This is first class all the way. We are very fortunate top have weathered the economic challenges. Nobody has fallen by the wayside. We are very grateful for everyone’s support.”
For tickets or more information call 954-713-0954 or e-mail ELipoff@mods.net.
Broadway & Disney Favorites with Palm Beach Pops
Bob Lappin & the Palm Beach Pops present an exciting program of Broadway and Disney Favorites this Thursday through Saturday, March 29-31 at the Kaye Performing Arts Auditorium of FAU. Featured are singers Lea Salonga, a star in her native Philippines and Drama Desk, Oliver and Tony award-winner for her starring role in “Miss Saigon” on Broadway; 2007 Helen Hayes Award-winner David Burnham and young rising star Olivia “Livie” Schippa. The show will also be presented April 2 and 3 at Kravis Center in West Palm Beach.
Tickets are $29-$89. Call 800-564-9539 or 561-832-7677 or go to www.palmbeachpops.org.