Dennis Tufano

* Routing Of Acts.

I thought that some of you guys might like to see a “typical” e-mail (Jeff Eats received it this morning) that Florida booking agents, concert venues, country clubs, social directors, resorts, HOAs literally receive every day-from artist management companies-concerning the booking of talent. The gist of these e-mails is to arrange for ACTS to “get” a number of booking dates in the same geographical-area…this results in the buyer paying less for the ACT because various expenses are shared by multiple buyers.
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Here are some exciting shows (18 different acts!) that we can offer PRICING DISCOUNTS for in your area, especially if you’re interested in some of the routed opportunities listed below! Trust that you’ll get quality entertainment perfect for a variety of venues, at a bottom-line price! Below are brief bios, video & website links, and some of the particular dates that we can offer substantial booking discounts around. Give us a call at 941.624.2254 with any questions, or reply to this e-mail. WE HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERY TYPE OF VENUE, AND FOR EVERY BUDGET!! Below is a partial roster of some Motown, doo wop, classic rock, country, southern rock and comedy! And, as always, with Celebrity Direct, trust that you’re booking DIRECT! (NOTE: the “low” price listed is with ideal routing on our off days on tour, and the “high” price is usually a one-off fly date that includes air all-in) … also remember to view our full website at http://www.celebritydirect.net for our full artist roster and promo!
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** CALIFORNIA SURF, INC. (former Beach Boys members) – Surf & Hot Rod
BIO: This is the ONLY show in the world that features ALL former members of the legendary Beach Boys! These men have, for decades, helped shape the sound of the Beach Boys on world-wide concert tours, television specials and legendary albums. This includes longtime BBs members Matt Jardine, Billy Hinsche (also from 1960s pop trio Dino, Desi & Billy), Bobby Figueroa and Ed Carter (all sing and play instruments).
SONGS: Their show is 100% Beach Boys hit songs! Surfin’ USA, 409, Kokomo and California Girls
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.californiasurfinc.com and http://www.celebritydirect.biz/profile-californiasurf.htm
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: 2/7/15 (FL), 2/14/15 (FL), 5/16/15 (CT), 12/26/15 (FL), 12/29/15 (FL), 12/31/15 (FL)
PRICE RANGE: $4000 – $10000
FORMAT: 5 on stage – all sing and play live

** FORMER TEMPTATIONS LEAD SINGER GLENN LEONARD PRESENTS HITSVILLE LIVE – Motown
BIO: The ONLY Motown review touring that features an actual recording member of Motown! Led by the former lead singer of The Temptations, Glenn Leonard (1975-83, 10 albums recorded), the show features 9 on stage, including 2 male and 3 female lead vocalists performing all the Motown hit songs by legendary artists such as the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, the Four Tops and, of course, The Temptations!
SONGS: 100% Motown hits: Get Ready, Mr. Postman, Superstition, Reach Out I’ll, Be There and My Girl
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.hitsvilleliveshow.com or http://www.celebritydirect.biz/cde/profile-glennhitsville.htm
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: Nov 11,14,16, 2014 (TX), 3/14/15 (FL), 5/16/15 (VA), 7/29/15 (FL), November, 2015 (TX), 1/23/16 (FL)
PRICE RANGE: $4500 – $7500
FORMAT: 9 on stage – live singing and instruments (5 vocalists, 4 musicians)

** SCHERRIE PAYNE & LYNDA LAWRENCE – FORMERLY OF THE SUPREMES – Motown
BIO: The ONLY tribute to the sensational Supremes… that features 2 or more actual former members of The Supremes! Former Motown Supremes members Scherrie Payne and Lynda Lawrence are joined by the phenomenal Joyce Vincent (of Tony Orlando & Dawn fame) in a show that is one-of-a-kind.
SONGS: Stop! In The Name of Love, Baby Love, Someday We’ll Be Together…. and all the Supremes Hits!
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGNvcQNMsQw
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: 2/4/15 (FL), 2/5/15 (FL), 2/6/15 (FL), 2/7/15 (FL), 2/9/15 (FL),
PRICE RANGE: $6000 – $15000
FORMAT: 3 vocalists on stage – with full band or backing tracks

** KEN BRADY’S ORIGINAL CASINOS – Doo Wop
BIO: Most well-known for their top-10 hit song, “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye,” (rated as one of the top 5 all-time hit Doo Wop songs), The Casinos were a Cincinnati based group starting in the early 1960s, and from 1962-65 were led by Ken Brady, who is still in top vocal form! Today the group performs all the classic 1950s and 60s hit songs and features 4 on stage. They are easy to work with, affordable, and can travel self-contained!
SONGS: Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye and all your classic favorites
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lu2Ymu0xCXE
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: Looking to fill Feb / Mar, 2015 in Florida
PRICE RANGE: $2000 – $4500
FORMAT: 4 vocalists – can do backing tracks or live show

** GLENN LEONARD’S TEMPTATIONS REVUE – Motown
BIO: A 2013 R&B Music Hall of Fame inductee, Glenn Leonard – lead singer of The Temptations from 1975-83 – recorded 10 albums with the group. Since that time, his Temptations Revue has become the most popular show of its kind world-wide… due to the high quality of the show and the affordable price. They’ve recently performed throughout Brazil, Denmark, Australia and France with rave reviews!! All the sharp choreography and vocal talent are there! Mr. Leonard is also the voice of the record-setting Temptations version of the Christmas classic, “Silent Night,” and we are looking for performance dates throughout December, world-wide, for their incredible Christmas show (2014, 2015, 2016).
SONGS: 100% Temptations hits: My Girl, Just My Imagination, Papa Was A Rolling Stone, Cloud 9, etc.
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.glennleonardpromo.com or http://www.celebritydirect.biz/cde/profile-glennrevue.htm
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: 1/24/15 (FL), 1/25/15 (FL), March, 2015 (Brazil), 4/11/15 (MD),
PRICE RANGE: $7000 – $12500
FORMAT: 10 on stage: 5 singers, 5 musicians

** “The First Family of Funk” THE JB’s- Funk
BIO: This show is the ONLY show authorized by the James Brown Family Foundation, and features the actual musicians and vocalists that Mr. Brown trusted and kept with his show for so many years. Booking this show now will get you ahead of the rush of publicity coming from the movie release!! From “The Capeman,” Danny Ray, Mr. Brown’s emcee since 1960, announcing to loving audiences, “Are you ready for Star Time?” … to bassist Fred Thomas, with The JB’s since 1971, and Martha High, who performed with James Brown starting in 1966… The JB’s are ready to make the world funky again!
SONGS: I Feel Good, It’s A Man’s World, Sex Machine and all the James Brown big hits!
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.celebritydirect.biz/cde/profile-jb.htm
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: 2/14/15 (KY),
PRICE RANGE: $7000 – $11000
FORMAT: normally 10 on stage – live vocals and musicians

** ELVIS AARON PRESLEY, JR – Elvis
BIO: The ONLY court-proven son of the “King,” Elvis, Jr. was born to Elvis and Delores Pettyjohn in 1961. He’s a riveting performer who’s made a name for himself worldwide because of his incredible singing voice, naturally reminiscent of “The King”, and a great sense of humor. Mr. Presley, Jr has appeared in 18 countries and 6 islands, including a sold out tour of 18 Japanese cities in 18 days! A gifted linguist, Jr. has surprised many crowds by serenading them in their native tongue. Also available for booking is one of the largest privately owned Elvis Presley museums in the world — this beautiful million dollar mobile museum is owned by Elvis, Jr., and has amazed Elvis fans throughout the United States at car shows, amusement parks, and festivals with it’s plethora of one of a kind Elvis memorabilia. The legend lives on!
SONGS: performs all the well-known Elvis hit songs, as well as some of his originals.
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.elvisaaronpresleyjr.com
PRICE RANGE: $5500 – $12500
FORMAT: Junior with backup vocalists and live musicians – can customize to fit budget

** America’s Got Talent winner: LANDAU EUGENE MURPHY, JR. (can be joined by former members of the Temptations, Platters and Drifters (Glenn Leonard, Joe Coleman, Joe Blunt) **LCB** – Jazz/R&B
BIO: Landau rose to international fame when he won the 6th season of America’s Got Talent. A true rags-to-riches story, Landau went from washing cars to performing at venues world-wide! He’s a master at performing the classics by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, but is so versatile he amazes audiences with other genres of music in each and every show. He now has #1 hits, and is a highly requested performer worldwide. He has appeared on The Today Show, The View, CNN, Fox and Friends, The Wendy Williams Show, The Talk, Anderson Cooper, Tom Joyner, Sirius XM, NPR and dozens of other outlets.
SONGS: Jazz standards, Motown, variety – ALSO HAS A FABULOUS CHRISTMAS SHOW!
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVflKxMN7wk
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND:
PRICE RANGE: $7000 – $15000
FORMAT: normally with live musicians, but can also do track show for smaller venues

** THE MICHAEL ALLMAN BAND – Southern Rock
BIO: With the legendary Gregg Allman (from the Allman Brothers) announcing he is no longer touring, his son Michael is perfect for a variety of events that will appreciate a true southern rock sound! He performs many of his dad’s hits and as well as his original chart-toppers.
SONGS: southern rock classics!
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ON1J2xrn_0o
PRICE RANGE: $3500 – $7500
FORMAT: 6 on stage – all sing and play instruments

** LATRAIA SAVAGE’S “TINA & BEYOND” – Tribute
BIO: Explosive, alluring, electrifying, sultry and sassy are all words used to describe Ms. Savage. She’s opened shows for the likes of Alicia Keys and Chris Brown; She’s performed at military bases worldwide, in theme park productions, in commercials, and has become the industry’s sought after Tina Turner tribute artists. She also is well-known for her “Divas” show performing tributes to Tina, Aretha, Whitney Houston, Donna Summer & Beyonce… and even a spot-on Michael Jackson. One of our favorites for sure!
SONGS: performing all the legendary hits of Tina, Whitney, Beyonce and more!
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6f-rVCjlSt4
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: 2/21/15 (FL),
PRICE RANGE: $2000 – $5500
FORMAT: variety: can do solo track show up to full live band with backup singers.

** THE REFLECTIONS – Doo Wop
BIO: These doo-wop legends (still featuring original members) are most well-known for their blockbuster hit “Just Like Romeo & Juliet,” that is now in its 50th year! They have a newly reformed Christmas concert that is available for affordable bookings world-wide. Also still available is their doo wop show full of hits!
SONGS: Just Like Romeo & Juliet, and all the doo wop standards. Their all-new Christmas show contains 50% Christmas classics.
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4D1ctsy7U8 or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVAHApFvxW4 (Doo Wop Christmas)
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: 12/12/14 (FL), 12/13/14 (FL),
PRICE RANGE: $3500 – $6500
FORMAT: 4 vocalists – can do track show or add live band

** FRAN COSMO – FORMER LEAD SINGER OF BOSTON – Classic Rock
BIO: The voice heard on millions of records world-wide! The former lead singer of Boston, Fran is joined by his son Anthony (also was an 8 year veteran Boston guitar player, and Boston songwriter), and a star-studded group that also features another Boston songwriter, and a Boston studio musician. Fran toured with Boston from 1990 to 2005, and was the lead voice on Boston’s album “Corporate America” and his lead vocals can be heard on “Boston’s Greatest Hits.” He was also featured on MTV and VH1 with his personal hit “So You Ran.” He shared vocals with the legendary Brad Delp for many years, and then became Boston’s sole lead voice after Delp’s departure from the group. This group isn’t Boston, but it’s the next best thing!
SONGS: More Than A Feeling, Walk On, Smokin, So You Ran, Foreplay / Longtime
WEB/VIDEO: http://youtu.be/iA78Q3tMmx0 or http://www.celebritydirect.biz/cde/profile-francosmo.htm
PRICE RANGE: $9000 – $15000
FORMAT: 6 on stage that all sing and play instruments

** THE FOUR PREPS w/ original lead singer Bruce Belland – Oldies
BIO: For over five decades lead singer Bruce Belland has become what one critic called “that rare creature – an Original Lead Singer from the Fab 50’s who can still bring audiences to their feet.” The Four Preps, during the 1950s, quickly became a favorite of the nation’s disc jockeys and soon their voices blanketed the airwaves. National television exposure and a sold old tour with Ricky Nelson launched them to international stardom. “26 Miles” soon hit the airwaves and their young lives were changed forever. That million-selling song (9 million at last count) about the “island of romance” became what Dick Clark called “the first surfer hit” and took the Pop world by storm. (In their recent biographies, both Jimmy Buffett and Brian Wilson cite that Preps classic as their enduring teenage influence). The hits just kept coming, and today the Four Preps are one of the most revered vocal groups in history!
SONGS: 26 Miles and all their hits!
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQge72Zm7Uc
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: 1/20/15 (FL), 3/27/15 (FL)
PRICE RANGE: $CALL
FORMAT: 4 vocalists – plus live band, or can do track show

** COMEDIAN / MUSICIAN: FORMER HARLEM GLOBETROTTER NATE BRANCH – Comedy / R&B
BIO: What a great combination! Take a stand-up comedian who happens to be a long-tenured Harlem Globetrotter basketball players (1960s – 80s), who’s also a world-class musical performer, and you have one heck of a show that the people come out to see! He can perform as a full comedy set, or a straight music show performing his R&B and blues hits. The combination is excellent… and VERY AFFORDABLE! He makes a perfect MC that the fans love to interact with.
SONGS: comedy, R&B, gospel
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: looking to route in California and Florida
PRICE RANGE: $800 – $3000
FORMAT: normally Nate by himself with a keyboard

** THE MILLS BROTHERS – original
BIO: For more than 75 years, the magical appeal of the eloquent music of The Mills Brothers has attracted adoring audiences worldwide. The magic continues unabated today under the leadership of John Mills – who is the son, grandson and nephew of the original group’s members. They perform all those hit songs, tightly woven with interesting facts and trivia from a musical era of yesteryear. Mr. Mills is joined by the fabulous Elmer Hopper, who was a 21 year lead singer of the Platters.
SONGS: Glow Worm, Paper Doll, Lazy River, Cab Driver… all their classics, plus some hits of the Platters.
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoeD5IJvlYQ
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: generally available in California, looking to fill Feb/Mar, 2015 and 2016 in FL and GA
PRICE RANGE: $4500 – $9500
FORMAT: 2 vocalists with 3-piece jazz trio, up to full symphony

** MICHAEL PETERSON: country
BIO: Michael Peterson’s chart topping, country music classics “Drink Swear Steal & Lie” and “From Here To Eternity” helped make him Billboard magazine’s top selling new male artist and top new airplay artist in Country music in 1997-1998. With over 2500 concert performances and keynotes in 19 countries during a unique career that spans over 30 years, Michael Peterson has had the good fortune to be a million selling, Grammy nominated, Country music star with three consecutive, self penned #1 hits (Drink, Swear, Steal & Lie * From Here To Eternity * Too Good To Be True) and countless major chart-topping songwriting credits.
SONGS: All his hits and more!
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NozGhhKyDUs or http://www.celebritydirect.biz/cde/profile-michaelpeterson.htm
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND:
PRICE RANGE: $6000 – $9500
FORMAT: normally solo with guitar, video screens and supplemental tracks. Can also do full band performances.

** MARK & CLARK – DUELING PIANOS : pianos, comedy
BIO: If you’re looking for standing ovations, this is the show for you! They’ve performed worldwide, headlined in Vegas and Atlantic City, but are versatile enough to formulate their show for ANY venue and any audience demographic. These “Twin Keys” give a show like no other – it’s fast paced, full of comedy, and the most masterful piano sounds you’ve ever heard. Mix the show with actual twins playing beautiful twin pianos, and you have a combination for success…. Every time!
SONGS: variety
WEB/VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFhPYmNwmxw
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: 11/14/14 (FL), 3/21/15 (FL),
PRICE RANGE: $2000 – $6000
FORMAT: they travel with beautiful “shell” pianos with electronic keyboards inside…. Facing each other. Both sing and play.

** DENNIS TUFANO – THE ORIGINAL VOICE OF THE BUCKINGHAMS
DATES BOOKED TO ROUTE AROUND: 3/25/15 (FL)

PLEASE REPLY TO THIS E-MAIL OR PHONE 941.624.2254 TODAY!

Sincerely,

CORD COSLOR

| CELEBRITY DIRECT ENTERTAINMENT
| “Representing the finest stars of music,
| sports and the big screen!”
| PO Box 494314 – Port Charlotte, FL 33949
| (Ofc) 941.624.2254 (Fax) 941.624.4522
| http://www.CelebrityDirect.net
| e-mail: celebritydirect@comcast.net
| Skype: cordcoslor
| *** Licensed & bonded: #TA0000987

* Turnstiles.

If you like Billy Joel, you’ll really enjoy Turnstiles.

Jeff Eats has seen this band 3- times and Turnstiles- does a real nice job “covering” Billy Joel’s stuff…

The way Meatball Room is working this one…no charge if you eat inside or sit at its inside/outside bars. $20-$30 if you sit at an outside table-where the band-performs. The show runs from 8pm-11pm.

* Amaize.

Got this pr-email late last night…

Trust me, Jeff Eats “knows” his crowd, so I’m thinking that not too many of you guys-if any-are gonna be standing on line next Tuesday at 7am – when Amaize a new fast food arepa joint opens -to win Free Coffee For 1-Year. But! On the outside chance that one or more of you are sicker-puppies than I thought, down below you’ll find all of the pertinent info- needed to go for the gold!

Just so you know, Jeff Eats is “hearing” some nice buzz on this new-venture and will check the joint out later this month.

If you get to Amaize before I do, drop me a line on what’s what.
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Amaize, Amazing Arepas, to Open in Doral on November 11

First 100 Guests Receive Free Coffee for One Year

Doral, FL, November 3, 2014 – Amaize, a one-of-a-kind flavorful fast-casual Arepa concept eatery, will open in Doral on November 11 at 7 a.m. The first 100 guests to line up that morning will receive a refillable coffee mug with free coffee for one year.

The eatery will feature customized Arepas and Cachapas, in which customers can “CYO” (Create your Own) Arepas using a variety of tasty gourmet and Latin inspired fillings.

Amaize is the first fast-casual Arepa concept in the U.S. and the restaurant will feature unparalleled quality and an inviting ambiance. Arepas, which have been enjoyed by Latin American cultures for hundreds of years, are grilled cornmeal “pockets.” They are made of pre-cooked P.A.N. cornmeal, are healthy, versatile and are easily customized with savory additions.

Amaize, a 2,680 square foot restaurant, will offer seating for 75 guests. The restaurant will feature only fresh, high-quality ingredients and will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as snacks and a kids’ menu. Amaize will feature an inviting bar area with flat screen TVs, serving snacks along with Latin American beer, wine and sangria, as well as complimentary toasted Canchas. Customers will receive their food, once it’s ordered, to their table via HME, a GPS system.

The eatery will also include a Mercadito (mini market) in which guests can carry out side dishes or purchase selected items to create their own experience with Arepas at home.

“Today’s customers are hungry for new dining experiences that not only encompass fresh new flavors and superb customer service, but a vibrant and comfortable atmosphere,” according to Luis Ginestra, president/CEO of Amaize. “From the moment our guests walk into Amaize, they will have a wonderful experience, not only with a fresh and Latin inspired menu, in which guests can create their own combination of flavors, but in an inviting and modern environment.”

The menu offers Arepas, cachapas, soups, salads, mechados, desserts and snacks and original dishes like “Saladmaize,” and a twist on sweets with the “Cachapa delight.” The menu offers the traditional fillings like shredded beef, chicken and pork, as well as specialty Arepas like “Asado Negro” with its unique taste, salmon salad, “Caprese Latina,” “Portobello Tofu,” and the famous “Beauty Queen” (Reina Pepiada), a specialty avocado chicken salad Arepa. In addition, Amaize will serve juices, known as aguas frescas, specialty coffee and desserts. The traditional Latin cheeses served at Amaize are sourced locally.

The restaurant is located at 3887 NW 107th Avenue, Unit 101, Doral, FL 33178. The restaurant hours are: Sunday 7 a.m.-10 p.m., Mon-Wed 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Thu-Sat 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Happy hour will be served from 4-6 p.m. at the bar. For more information, please visit www.amaizeyou.com or follow us on Twitter and Instagram @Amaizeyou or like us at Facebook/Amaizeyou.

***** Perico’s Tex-Mex & American Bar & Grill, 2401 Hancock Bridge Highway, Cape Coral, Florida 33990, (239) 829-0606.

Got a good Mexican/American joint for you…Perico’s Tex-Mex & American Bar & Grill in Cape Coral.

A few weeks ago Jeff Eats and Mrs. Jeff Eats did the “visiting old New York friends who recently moved to Florida thing”–and ended up in Cape Coral (no insult intended to you Cape Coralians)-long story short, they (two couples) took us to Perico’s- a real casual/reasonably priced- Mexican/American joint with a huge bar area, out door patio, stage area, tons of flat screen tvs, live bands/entertainment 7 days a week…open 7 days a week 11am-7pm.

You can check Perico’s menu which is loaded with Mexican stuff, appetizers, burgers, wings, salads, sandwiches at pericosrestaurant.com…there is also an entertainment calendar which lists all kinds of live music entertainment covering doo wop, oldies, classic rock, country, Sinatra-smooth and blues.

Jeff Eats “sampled” in one form or another chicken/beef- tacos/burritos/enchiladas/quesadillas, fried pickles, fried zucchini, cheeseburger, Philly cheesesteak sub, steak fajitas, flan and fried ice cream…and I gotta tell you, everything was A-OK! Just so we are straight, nothing gourmet or sensational or outstanding going on here–just solid bar food-(now for the sentimental stuff) that when-eaten with folks- you’ve known for 30 years (who picked up the bill)- tastes absolutely great!

Let me wrap this up for you…

With or without friends, you’ll enjoy Perico’s Tex-Mex & American Bar & Grill.

* 12th Annual Feast of Little Italy.

Jeff Eats and Mrs. Jeff Eats “did” 10 & 11 and I gotta tell you- we had an absolute blast. If memory serves me correctly, the weather was dynamite perfect…which is 90% of the game!

This year, 2014…

Friday, Saturday, Sunday…November 7th, 8th, 9th.

Gonna cost you 7 bucks a -head per day. Kids 12 & under free, free parking.

You know the deal… food/merch- vendors. contests, rides, and some real fun entertainment.

Printed down below, this year’s flyer… quick note, I see that my old pal Gary Puckett & The Union Gap is headlining on Saturday Night….Young Girl, Get Out Of My Mind!!!!! Not to date myself but I first met Gary some 40 years ago…

Trust Jeff Eats, you catch some good weather and this one is a big winner.

If the flyer doesn’t give you everything you need, check feastofitaly.com for more details.

* Election Day!

Today is Election Day.

Just got this e-mail from someone I don’t even know.

Jeff Eats isn’t trying to be political or nothing here.

Just-found this to be a nice read, on Election Day!

*****

Will you give this to my Daddy?

As a Company, Southwest Airlines is going to support ‘Red Fridays.’

Last week I was in Atlanta , Georgia attending a conference. While I was in the airport, returning home, I heard several people behind me beginning to clap and cheer. I immediately turned around and witnessed one of the greatest acts of patriotism I have ever seen.

Moving through the terminal was a group of soldiers in their camos. As they began heading to their gate, everyone (well almost everyone) was abruptly to their feet with their hands waving and cheering.

When I saw the soldiers, probably 30-40 of them, being applauded and cheered for, it hit me. I’m not alone. I’m not the only red-blooded American who still loves this country and supports our troops and their families.

Of course I immediately stopped and began clapping for these young unsung heroes who are putting their lives on the line everyday for us so we can go to school, work and home without fear or reprisal.

Just when I thought I could not be more proud of my country or of our service men and women, a young girl, not more than 6 or 7 years old, ran up to one of the male soldiers. He kneeled down and said ‘hi.’

The little girl then asked him if he would give something to her daddy for her.

The young soldier, who didn’t look any older than maybe 22 himself, said he would try and what did she want to give to her Daddy. Then suddenly the little girl grabbed the neck of this soldier, gave him the biggest hug she could muster and then kissed him on the cheek.

The mother of the little girl, who said her daughter’s name was Courtney, told the young soldier that her husband was a Marine and had been in Iraq for 11 months now. As the mom was explaining how much her daughter Courtney missed her father, the young soldier began to tear up.

When this temporarily single mom was done explaining her situation, all of the soldiers huddled together for a brief second. Then one of the other servicemen pulled out a military-looking walkie-talkie. They started playing with the device and talking back and forth on it..

After about 10-15 seconds of this, the young soldier walked back over to Courtney, bent down and said this to her, ‘I spoke to your daddy and he told me to give this to you.’ He then hugged this little girl that he had just met and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He finished by saying ‘your daddy told me to tell you that he loves you more than anything and he is coming home very soon.’

The mom at this point was crying almost uncontrollably and as the young soldier stood to his feet, he saluted Courtney and her mom. I was standing no more than 6 feet away from this entire event.

As the soldiers began to leave, heading towards their gate, people resumed their applause. As I stood there applauding and looked around, there were very few dry eyes, including my own. That young soldier in one last act of selflessness, turned around and blew a kiss to Courtney with a tear rolling down his cheek.

We need to remember everyday all of our soldiers and their families and thank God for them and their sacrifices. At the end of the day, it’s good to be an American.

RED FRIDAYS —– Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing Red every Friday. The reason? Americans who support our troops used to be called the ‘silent majority’. We are no longer silent, and are voicing our love for God, country and home in record breaking numbers.

We are not organized, boisterous or over-bearing. We get no liberal media coverage on TV, to reflect our message or our opinions. Many Americans, like you, me and all our friends, simply want to recognize that the vast majority of Americans supports our troops.

Our idea of showing solidarity and support for our troops with dignity and respect starts this Friday -and continues each and every Friday until the troops all come home, sending a deafening message that.. Every red-blooded American who supports our men and women afar will wear something red.

By word of mouth, press, TV — let’s make the United States on every Friday a sea of red much like a homecoming football game in the bleachers.

If every one of us who loves this country will share this with acquaintances, co-workers, friends, and family. It will not be long before the USA is covered in RED and it will let our troops know the once ‘silent’ majority is on their side more than ever; certainly more than the media lets on.

The first thing a soldier says when asked ‘What can we do to make things better for you?’ is…We need your support and your prayers.

Let’s get the word out and lead with class and dignity, by example; and wear something red every Friday.

WE LIVE IN THE LAND OF THE FREE, ONLY BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE.THEIR BLOOD RUNS RED—- SO WEAR RED! — MAY GOD HELP AMERICA TO BECOME ONE NATION, UNDER GOD.

* Plaza Theatre In Manalapan Out Of business!

Literally just this second- got the below e-mail…

Look, not Jeff Eats’ style to wish anyone bad, that said…read the e-mail, look how Plaza Theatre willy-nilly- uses the words “theatre” and “theater”- sloppppppy! Nothing for nothing, just may-be Plaza Theater (get it!) was sloppy in soliciting donations and promoting ticket sales- and that’s why it’s no more!

Just an observation.

*****
We are very sorry to inform the public that due to lack of donations and ticket sales, the Plaza Theatre has had to close it doors. Since our closure, we have been working diligently to arrange for our patrons’ tickets to be honored by other quality local theaters. We are pleased to announce that we have formed a coalition of theaters willing to accept Plaza Theatre tickets for the 2014/15 season, including subscribers, groups, and individual ticket holders. Theatres accepting Plaza Theatre tickets include:
Broward Stage Door Theatre Coral Springs 954-344-7765
www.stagedoortheatre.com

Outre’ Theatre Company Boca Raton 954-300-2149
www.outretheatrecompany.com

Slow Burn Theatre Boca Raton 954-323-7884
www.slowburntheatre.org

Please contact the theaters directly through their respective box offices to make arrangements to have your Plaza Theatre tickets honored for their productions. Please note that these theatres are not receiving payment for tickets, with the exception of balances due on group sales. Proof of purchase of Plaza Theatre tickets must be given in exchange for new tickets. There will be no refunds.

Each theatre has its own parameters, and must be dealt with individually. They will make arrangements for all shows on their schedules for the 2014/15 season. Old Jews Telling Jokes at The Broward Stage Door is not available. Please do not call or email The Plaza Theatre, as it is closed.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your patronage and patience.

The Plaza Theatre

***** DONUT DIVAS & FUN FOODS, 3380 Northwest 7th Street, Miami, Florida 33125, retail store- (305) 456-5975, catering service (786) 488-2709, donutdivas.com.

A recent e-mail from reader HF…

Jeff,

My husband and I have been reading Jeff Eats for a number of years. We both really enjoy your site and have tried many of the joints that you have recommended.

We are currently planning our oldest son’s bar mitzvah. It is scheduled for October, 2015. Based on your site, I know that you can appreciate what a huge project this bar mitzvah party is turning into.

Unlike most, we are going to do the entire service/party and our home in Miami. We are planning an outdoor event for close to 200 people.

We really enjoy putting things together by ourselves, so there are no party planners or other so called experts involved in the project.

We would really appreciate a suggestion on a Company that does terrific unique desserts. candies and carnival type novelty foods.

Thanks,

HF
_____

HF:

South Florida has a ton of catering companies that do top shelf desserts, candies, etc…

One company-that pops into mind is Donut Divas & Fun Foods located in Miami.

Over the past several years, Jeff Eats and Mrs. Jeff Eats have “attended” a number of events in which it had a hand and Donut Divas always killed it.

Congrats-on the bar mitzvah…

Jeff Eats

***** DISH OF THE WEEK (Sunday- 11/2/14).

One of Jeff Eats’ favorite menu items…

LARGE PIZZA & GARLIC ROLLS
$14.00 (10 slices) $3.00(1-dozen rolls)

Original Frankie’s Famous Pizza
9118 Bird Road
Miami
(305) 221-0221
frankiespizzaonline.com
Last Reviewed: 4/7/08

Don’t plan on eating at Original Frankie’s Famous Pizza because it’s takeout only. The joint only has 2 menu items, pizza and garlic rolls. You want great stuff!-order yourself a pie and some rolls-Frankie’s must be doing something right–the joint has been around since 1955.

* John Offerdahl’s Broward Health Gridiron Grill-Off Food & Tailgate Festival.

Just a quick observation,

The older Jeff Eats gets, the more-I become just like my Great Uncle Sammy Ginsberg (on my mother’s side)–for some reason, I find myself REPEATING-and- REPEATING and REPEATING things.

With that in mind, back on June 4, 2014 and August 28, 2014 I told you guys about- Gridiron Grill-Off set for November 8, 2014…rather than repeating what I told you back on June 4, 2014 and August 28, 2014- all I can tell you is that this charity event is going to be off-the chart! Celebrities, Sports Stars, Great Food, Great Music, Great Drink–all I can tell you is that this charity event is going to be off- the chart!

Jeff Eats and Mrs. Jeff Eats will be there, will be there, will be there-and you should be there too, and you should be there too!-I know, enough already with the repeating bit! ok-ok-ok.

Somewhere -down below in the reprinted June 4th & August 28th “stories” is a full description of the event…trust Jeff Eats-this thing is going to be terrific! terrific! terrific!

Finally, you can buy tickets/other info at gridirongriller.com.

Hope to see you guys out there next Saturday, Saturday, Saturday.
*****
August 28, 2014

* John Offerdahl’s Broward Health Gridiron Grill-Off Food & Tailgate Festival.
August 28, 2014

Just a quick observation,

The older Jeff Eats gets, the more-I become just like my Great Uncle Sammy Ginsberg (on my mother’s side)–for some reason, I find myself REPEATING-and- REPEATING and REPEATING things.

With that in mind, back on June 4, 2014 I told you guys about- Gridiron Grill-Off set for November 8, 2014…rather than repeating what I told you back on June 4, 2014- all I can tell you is that this charity event is going to be off-the shelf! Celebrities, Sports Stars, Great Food, Great Music, Great Drink–all I can tell you is that this charity event is going to be off- the shelf!

Jeff Eats and Mrs. Jeff Eats will be there, will be there, will be there-and you should be there too, and you should be there too!-I know, enough already with the repeating bit! ok-ok-ok.

Finally, you can buy tickets/other info at gridirongriller.com.
*****
*John Offerdahl’s Broward Health Gridiron Grill-Off Food, Wine & Tailgate Festival.
June 4, 2014
Just got the first “official” PR piece for John Offerdahl’s “big” annual charity event.

You can read the details below.

If you are/were a Dolphin’s fan and have 85 bucks to spend–you would be “silly” not to go this 1pm-4pm outdoor PARTY!

Jeff Eats has been to past John Offerdahl’s Gridiron Grillers and the food, drink, entertainment–were as good as it gets!
*****
DATE ANNOUNCED FOR “JOHN OFFERDAHL’S BROWARD HEALTH®

GRIDIRON GRILL-OFF FOOD, WINE & TAILGATE FESTIVAL” ON NOVEMBER 8
POMPANO BEACH, FL (June 4, 2014) – “John Offerdahl’s Broward Health® Gridiron Grill-Off Food, Wine & Tailgate Festival” will score big when it returns on Sat., Nov. 8 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pompano Beach Amphitheater, 1806 N.E. 6th Street, Pompano Beach. The 5th annual culinary showdown benefitting recognized charities will pair Miami Dolphins legends with top local chefs to prepare signature dishes, plus feature the best in food, wine, music and more.
“We are thrilled to bring this exciting showcase of food and fun to South Florida once again,” said John Offerdahl, event founder and former Miami Dolphins All-Pro Linebacker. “This will be the fifth year in a row that fans can enjoy this charitable event where football, food and charity collide to feed the needs of kids in crisis.”
Part of the success of this event is the fan interaction with Miami Dolphins legends paired with South Florida’s top chefs. These teams will create winning dishes for all to sample, such as last year’s “Judge’s Choice” recipe, Santorini Grilled Octopus, prepared by Miami Dolphins “Undefeated Team” Guard #64 Ed Newman and Chef Peter Boulukus of YOLO and “People’s Choice” award-winning dish, Bacon and Bleu Rib-Eye, created by Dolphins legend Safety #47 Glenn Blackwood and Chef Victor Franco of Oceans 234. Grill-Off attendees will taste these culinary masterpieces paired with a selection of Gallo wines, vote for their favorite grill recipe and look on as judges select the winning team. This year’s participating Dolphins players and chefs will be announced at a later date.
100% of event net proceeds will benefit Offerdahl’s Hand-Off Foundation, which directs funds to agencies that “Feed the Needs of Kids in Crisis,” including 4KIDS of South Florida, HOPE South Florida, Here’s Help, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, Miami Dolphins Foundation and Taste of the NFL.
Tickets for the Gridiron Grill-Off are $85 each, which includes access to Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey Tailgate Zone and the Southeast Toyota Cornhole Stadium. Tickets go on sale Tuesday, July 15 and can be purchased at www.gridirongrilloff.com.
This tribute to football, food and charity is sponsored by Broward Health and in part by Walgreens.