The 14th Annual Deering Estate Wine on Harvest Moon Festival themed ‘Spirits, Spells & American Lore’ was perfectly framed by a taunting full moon that danced behind spooky clouds throughout the night.
Tandem Theater Project’s performers roamed the grounds performing as ghosts and spirits from the rich Deering Estate past. The headless horseman and other spellbinding decorations completed the scene on the already naturally spooky venue.
More than a dozen restaurants, Crown Wine & Spirits, Coconut Grove Bank and other businesses sponsored this annual fundraising event.
South Motors’ BMW’s were on display. WPLG’s weatherman Trent Aric and morning anchor Jacey Birch served as the evening’s hosts and auctioneers.
Of course, the main focus of the evening was wine…and there was plenty of it, including an intriguing blue champagne. There was even a bourbon tasting station.
The food tasting was spectacular with The Biltmore Hotel serving up crowd-favorite desserts.
The Deering Estate’s Executive Director Mary Pettit summed it up best, “We are humbled by the level of support we receive from our philanthropic, corporate, artistic and food and wine-loving community each year for this signature fundraising event. The food, wine and other libations, as well as all of the auction items, are ALL provided in-kind by our gracious and dedicated partners for everyone’s enjoyment. Once again, all of their efforts and kindness have come together under the glow of the full moon over historic Deering Estate, raising significant dollars for the work the Foundation does throughout the year to preserve and care for this wondrous legacy of Florida’s heritage. We couldn’t be more grateful!”
So many South Floridians look forward to this great fall event. And with the wine, food, entertainment and neighborly conversation, there’s no doubt the event was once again a rousing success.
Halloween in Palmetto Bay
Palmetto Bay got an early start to Halloween on Friday, Oct. 30, as hundreds of kids descended upon Coral Reef Park. The three hour event allowed families to celebrate Halloween in a safe and fun way, surrounded by many of their neighbors.
The Village Parks and Recreation Department summoned up spooky treats for everyone as they transformed the tennis courts into ghostly games of skill, handed out candy and then set up for a showing of “The Book of Life” on the inflatable movie screen.
Everyone had a great time, including a kid dressed as R2-D2 and several Darth Vaders roaming the grounds. Besides a resurgence of Star Wars costumes, there was a of costume variety and creativity. Both Mayor Eugene Flinn and Councilwoman Karyn Cunningham spread Halloween treats to all attendees.
“We have a beautiful night, tons of incredible costumes and great use of our park,” said Cummingham.
Color Run raises money for Palmetto HS
On November 7, Palmetto Bay’s 1st Annual Twilight Color Run and Concert was no ordinary 5K. More than 500 people came out to run or walk the course around Palmetto Bay Park.
Anna Hochkammer, president of Miami Palmetto Senior High’s PTSA explained, “This year’s color run will raise funds to refurbish and re-equip the high school’s aging weight training facilities. This is a great way to bring the community together. The bulk of our students come from Palmetto Bay, so we’re very excited to have the Village sponsor such a great event for us.”
The race began at Village Hall. Participants worked their way around Palmetto Bay Park. They were sprayed with powder at several ‘color stations.’ By the time they reached the finish line, everyone was covered with all the colors of the rainbow.
Mayor Eugene Flinn, who ran the race and was arguably the most colored participant, said, “I’m so proud of this community. This is small town USA at it’s finest. Why live anywhere else?”
After the run, participants enjoyed live music by popular local band, Cutler Stew. Food trucks, including Kona-Ice, provided onsite food and drink.
Real Estate Update
As we head toward the end of 2015, you should know the value of your home. If you’re curious, go to MiamiHal.com/myValue to receive a free, no obligation home evaluation. Only a neighborhood real estate expert who’s seen the inside of your home can give you an accurate value. Contact me to get started.
Hal Feldman (MiamiHal) is a Realtor with RE/MAX Advance Realty. You can contact him with your story ideas or real estate questions at www.MiamiHal.com, Hal@MiamiHal.com or www.facebook.com/MiamiHal.
