While Winn-Dixie Grocery Stores have been remodeling and recently showed off a new concept store in West Broward (see previous 'review' FTLToday did on this store)...they are still trimming expenses and plan on closing more stores.  Winn-Dixie will be consolidating some offices and eliminating 120 of those jobs.  They also are planning to close 30 stores by September 30, 2010.  I really hope the 'new concept' takes off and more of the locations will start offering the same kinds of products.

Here is a list of the stores getting the ax:

Alabama
Helena
Store 469 - 335 Helena Market Place, 35080

Florida
Boca Raton
Store 263 - 291 W. Camino Real, 33432
Boynton Beach
Store 256 - 4770 N. Congress Ave., 33426
Store 257 - 9840 Military Trail, 33436
Clermont
Store 2334 - 1100 US Hwy 27, 34711
Deerfield Beach
Store 265 - 1101 S. Military Trail, 33442
Delray Beach
Store 268 – 1565 S. Congress Ave., 33445
Deltona
Store 2241 - 1200 Deltona Blvd., 32725
Ft. Lauderdale
Store 230 - 2420 North Federal Hwy., 33301
Greenacres
Store 356 - 6356 Forest Hill Blvd., 33415
Jacksonville
Store 6 - 10915 Baymeadows Road, 32256
Lake Worth
Store 260 - 6600 Hypoluxo Road, 33462
Store 281 - 4105 State Road 7, 33467
Store 337 - 6406 W. Lake Worth Road, 33463
Leesburg
Store 2347 - 1103 W. North Blvd., 34748
Loxahatchee
Store 288 - 5060 Seminole Pratt-Whitney Road, 33470
Orlando
Store 2216 - 2103 Americana Blvd., 32839
Store 2281 - 4400 Hoffner Road, 32812
Store 2652 - 4520 S. Semoran Blvd., 32822
Store 2654 - 10537 E. Colonial Drive, 32817
Pembroke Pines
Store 278 - 15859 Pines Blvd., 33027
Plantation
Store 222 - 901 North Nob Hill Road
Poinciana
Store 2265 - 900 Cypress Pkwy., 34759
Sarasota
Store 668 - 3500 N. Tamiami Trail, 34234
Titusville
Store 2209 - 700 Cheney Hwy., 32780

Georgia
Bonaire
Store 1854 - 785 Hwy 96, 31005
Dublin
Store 1812 - 2101 Veterans Blvd., 321021
Louisiana
Marrero
Store 1416 - 5969 Lapalco Blvd., 70072

Mississippi
Meridian
Store 536 - 2120 Hwy 19 North, 39305
Store 2621 - 1700 North Frontage Road, 39301

There are some signs that the economy is starting to thaw.  Finally!  Some hot chains are planning some new restaurants in Ft. Lauderdale.  Some are completely new to our area and should bring in the crowds.  Here are some to be on the lookout for:

J. Mark's.  This is the owners second location (the first being in Pompano).  The restaurant is located on US1 between Oakland Park Blvd and Sunrise.  This location used to be a Bennigans and you would never know it now.  They did a compete renovation inside and out.  They had their 'soft opening' 3 days ago and we stopped in for lunch today.  GREAT food and awesome service.  Everything from salads, sandwiches and steaks.  Similar menu to J. Alexanders...but this place has better prices and I think the food is better as well.  The outdoor patio will be done soon and they will have live bands on the weekends and happy hour specials 7 days a week.


Rocco's Tacos and Tequila Bar.  With restaurants in West Palm Beach...this unique Mexican eatery and bar is arriving in the Fall on Las Olas Blvd.  (In the former Smith & Jones restaurant...it just closed a few weeks ago).  Fresh guacamole is made 'table side' and you can try to choose one of the 225 tequila's they have on hand.  This is sure to be a hot spot on Las Olas.


Chipotle.  Yeah...I know.  There are Chipotle's all over the place...but there are none in East Ft. Lauderdale.  This location is going to be where the old Lone Star Steak place was on US1...by the old Linens-N-Things...between Oakland Park Blvd and Sunrise. 


Pei Wei Asian Diner.  This is kind of a new chain restaurant with some South Florida locations in Palm Beach County.  This will be the first one in Eastern Broward.  It's going to be located right where the new Chipolte is going.  They are actually the 'faster version' of their sister restaurant 'P.F. Changs'.  This chain is more of a 'Fast Casual' type with fresh ingredients that should bring Chinese take-out to a whole new level.

(Cow lovers celebrate at Chick-fil-A...photo from FastFoodCritic.com)

On Friday July 9th, 2010...Cick-fil-A is having it's sixth annual 'Cow Appreciation Day'! 

As part of the celebration, they will be giving out free food to us humans!  But...there is a catch.  You must dress up like a cow.  Kind of wacky huh?  Those wearing full 'cow' costumes will be given a free entree, side item and drink (breakfast, lunch or dinner).  If you are not feeling too 'cow-like', you can get just the free entree for wearing a cow print scarf, shoes, shirt or purse.

Have a safe and happy 4th of July!

Our partner CoolSavings offers coupons, discounts and even free stuff.  All you need to do is click below and sign up and you'll be on your way to huge savings.  I always log-on before I head out to the grocery store and usually find at least four coupons to use.  It's FREE, easy and fast.

Click and sign up today:

According to Sun-Sentinel.com, Ft. Lauderdale will host the 2010 Hooters International Swimsuit Pageant on July 10th, 2010.  The event will take place at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.  100 girls from Hooters Restaurants all around the world will be competing for the $150,000 prize and title.  I wonder where the 'host' hotel is going to be?

I tried to find ticket information...but couldn't seem to find it.  If anyone has any additional information, please leave a comment.

Check out all of the fun things to do around South Florida this 4th of July. If you plan it out right, you could hit some events in both Miami and Ft. Lauderdale…well, maybe not see the fireworks in both spots…but spend the day at one festival…and see the fireworks at the other.

Ft. Lauderdale Beach - July 4th Spectacular
Ft. Lauderdale Beach - Las Olas/A1A
11:30 AM - 9:30 PM
FREE
A live DJ will entertain guests and there will be lots of games for the kids. From 3 - 6PM Coast 97.3 FM will be providing the music and from 6PM on, there will be live music on the stage. Of course there will be a fireworks display at sundown at the beach (Las Olas and A1A).  Don't forget that Ft. Lauderdale Beach has undergone quite the transformation over the past few years..with some great new upscale hotels, great restaurants and some night clubs.

Mirimar All American 4th.
Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway.
Fun begins at 5:30 PM….Fireworks at 9 PM
$1.50 per person (children under 5 - FREE)

July 4th Blast at BankAtlantic Center.
BankAtlantic Center, Sunrise.
6PM - 10PM
Local bands and family entertainment for the kids. Fireworks display at 9PM

Miami Beach July 4th Celebration.
Ocean Drive and 10th Street, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Fireworks and fun 7:30PM

Grove Stars on 4th of July
Peacock Park, 2820 McFarlane Rd., Coconut Grove, FL 33133
Family fun and fireworks display.

On a recent trip through Coral Springs (outside of Ft. Lauderdale), we passed Big Bear Brewing Company. Anything with 'brew' in the name gets Jeff's attention…so we had to stop in for lunch. It's a nice restaurant that kind of reminded me of the old Houston's in Ft. Lauderdale. They had a bar with tables and some TV's on one end…and the main dining room on the other side.

I ordered the Beer Cheese Soup appetizer and the Skirt Steak Sandwich. The soup was thick and creamy and slightly sweet. I liked it..but I'd rather get it in a regular bowl. The bread bowl hype just doesn't do it for me. The steak was done perfectly. Medium. It was flavorful and tender. I didn't eat most of the bun though…guess I had enough bread with my soup. The fries were 'ok'. They had that coating on them to make them a little more crisp. Not a huge fan of those kind.


(Beer Cheese soup in a bread bowl - Big Bear Brewing Company)


(Skirt Steak Sandwich - Big Bear Brewing Company)

Jeff went for the beer sampler. Wow. 8 small glasses of all different kinds of beer. He loved it. What's not to love about so much beer!

(Beer Sampler $8 for 8 different beers - Big Bear Brewing Company)

Jeff's also been on a Fish N Chips kick lately and tried the dish here. While they were not the best ever…he liked them.


While the food was good…the prices are a bit high. The total bill came to around $40, so this is more of a 'special' occasion dining spot.  They do have some high end steaks too.... Or maybe just a place for a small snack with some BEER!

Big Bear Brewing Company location:
1800 North University Drive
Coral Springs, FL

FTLToday Score:  B for the food, C for the prices.

I found this interesting article on MSNBC.com today. It lists the different 'tip' customs around the world. Here in the US it's said that you should tip restaurant servers at least 15%, but more 17-20% of the check prior to tax. That amount is for GOOD to EXCELLENT service. I know there are those occasions I've left less. One thing to watch for here in South Florida…especially on the beaches…is an added tip. Many restaurants add a 'service fee' or 'tip' automatically…even on solo diners' checks. You probably don't want to double tip so be sure to review your check.

Here is a guide to restaurant server tipping all over the world:
Restaurant - The United States: 15% - 20%
Bar - The United States: 10% - 15%. You might want to stick to $1 for a beer, $2 for a mixed drink.
Restaurant - Canada: 15% - 20%
Bar - Canada: 10% - 15%. You might want to stick to $1 for a beer, $2 for a mixed drink.
Restaurant - Central & South America (Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay): 10% - 15%
Restaurant - Central & South America (Costa Rica, Brazil, and Peru): Most include tip/service charge automatically.
Bar - Central & South America: NONE for drinks alone. 10% if food is served.
Restaurant - Mexico: 15% (except for super casual…like a taco stand)
Bar - Mexico: 10 - 15%
Restaurant - Caribbean: 15%
Bar - Caribbean: 10 - 15%
Restaurant - Europe: Most servers are paid FULL salaries. 10% at your discretion if service is exceptional. It is not required.
Bar - Europe: None. Most round up and just leave the change/coins.
Restaurant - Asia (Thailand, Singapore, and China): tips are not expected.
Restaurant - Asia (Hong Kong): 5% optional on top of 10% service charge.
Bar - Asia: not customary in Japan and China. 10% optional in other areas.
Restaurant - New Zealand, Australia: 5% - 10% only if you are extremely pleased with service.
Bar - New Zealand, Australia: up to 10% if you are feeling generous. Normally none is left.
Restaurant - Africa and Middle East: up to 10%.
Bar - Africa and Middle East: up to 10%.

 
The long Holidy Weekend is almost here and it's going to be a great beach weekend.  The South Florida Beaches are clean and ready for visitors.  Come down and relax this 4th of July.  Many hotels are still offering some great deals and if you book on Priceline you save even more.

Check flights, hotels, car rental prices and more.  Even 'name your own price'!  Click:

Catch a free outdoor screening of the hit movie Mamma Mia! at 8:30 PM tonight at the Village at Gulfstream Park. The Monday 'Moonlight Movie' series turns the walking ring into an outdoor movie theater. Vendors, snack and beverages will also be available for purchase. You can also hit the casino and try your luck at the slots after the movie…or get there early and hit one of the many restaurants at the Village of Gulfstream.

For location and more info :  www.thevillageatgulfstreampark.com/

If you are one of the lucky ones out there that can afford a second home, why not go big?  Sure, you could buy it on a lake in New York or maybe on the beach in Florida.  Why not take it to the next level?  Recently, someone brought up the idea of buying a second home in France. Buying a Property in the South of France would be a perfect spot and best of all, it would be someplace to call home. 

France is one of the most popular tourist destinations for U.S. citizens and if you had your second home there, it would pay for itself over time. No hotels to worry about...no reservations. You could go when you wanted. You have the famous Rivera close by along with the famous Cannes Film Festival.

If the beach isn't your idea of 'fun'...then why not look for a Ski property in France? Some of the world's best ski slopes are found in France and you could have them basically in your back yard. Don't forget that France is also very close to other European countries and that means you have so many more places to vacation to.  Many you only need to hop on the train and you are there in no time.

There are many ways you can buy that property in France. http://www.ernalowproperty.co.uk actually goes through some of the options and has a huge database of properties to browse. They have experts that can walk you through some of the legal terms and financing options as well.  You could even rent out your property for additional income.  Heck, some vacation rentals could even pay for your home.  One last thing to think about too is that buying now, when the US Dollar is strong, will help you save some money too.

With the Global Economy still recovering, the US isn't the only place you can find some great hotel deals.  I've been reading that this is the perfect time to plan that trip to London.  If you've never been over to the UK, you might feel like you don't know where to start searching for your London Hotels. It can be quite intimidating if you are not familiar with London's hotel options. While they are similar to our US offerings...there are some differences.

Hotel Direct makes the planning simple and also gives you the best prices around. The way the site is set up...it's like one stop shopping. They have it all...from your 5-star hotel...to a more economical option for those budget travelers. There are tools that let you search for a hotel by attraction or by the Underground stations. The Underground is London's subway system that helps you zip around the city.

London's theater district rivals that of New York City and many productions start their run over in London. The website has some of the best hotel and theater packages I've seen around. They even have some previews online for some of the hottest shows to help you make your final decision. If you are a theater buff...this is the way to go. They help find the perfect hotel near the venue to round out the trip.

If you have a flexible schedule, look for 'Last Minute Deals' on http://www.hoteldirect.co.uk Not everyone can just plan a trip to London in a week or less...but for those of you that can, you can save even more.

I know I've said this a few times in previous postings...but the US Dollar is stronger than it has been in years, so you actually are saving even more money by booking now. If you make it over to London this Summer, leave a comment and let everyone know how your trip went.

While I love our sunrises on Ft. Lauderdale Beach...it's not always that easy to get up early enough to enjoy it.  Last weekend I was in Marco Island and shot this sunset picture.  I just love Marco Island...it's relaxing and the water has so much sea life. 

Broward County recently received some money to help advertise that 'Broward County beaches are clean and open for business'.  The beaches have not been impacted by the oil mess in the Gulf and officials are now going to make a marketing push to let everyone know.  The total BP funds available totals around $850,000 ($800,000 for TV and $50,000 for public relations) and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau plans on starting the campaign immediately. 

Summer has become another one of our 'peak' seasons here at the beaches and they are hoping that people realize that most of Florida's beaches are as clean as ever.  We've actually been having many 'beach' days...very sunny and high's in the 90's.

Summer is finally here and now it's time to start planning that Summer Family Vacation.  While you could stick to the regular vacation spots within driving distance...but do you really want to hear "are we there yet" for 4 hours?  Why not mix it up and plan a few Family Adventure Holidays? It's not only a great way to keep everyone on the trip interested, it's also a great way to make that family bond stronger.  The US Dollar is strong this year and a trip to Europe, Asia and other far destinations are easier than you think.  Imagine showing your kids the pyramids in Egypt?  An African Safari?  They'd be the star of school 'show and tell' when the teacher asks what they did over the summer. 

As adults, we love to relax...but when you are with the family...you need to keep everyone interested and on the move.  These locations are like 'natural' theme parks. Activity holidays could take you bike riding through Italy...or hiking through a rain forest. The best way to decide your trip is to visit www.adventurecompany.co.uk, pick 3 of their family vacation options and hold a 'Family Meeting' to vote. Make every vote count...even the little ones. That way...everyone feels like they were part of the planning and your trip will be off to a great start.

The Adventurecompany.co.uk even has special trips for that hard-to-please teenager. Africa, Morocco, Peru...they all are options that will help your teen understand different cultures while having an adventure they will never forget. Finding a Spanish speaking country (or French) will put those school classes to work too. Book this summer and you'll see just how this will be the vacation you and your family will never forget. Maybe you'll even start a new tradition.

The Sun Sentinel is reporting that Broward County's population actually went up from July 2008 to July 2009. The report is based on estimates from the Census Bureau. While it's not noted if this was a 'net gain' (more people moving into the county than leaving)…it's a good sign that the economy might be showing more signs of life. The population exploded in South Florida (and mostly Broward) during the housing bubble and once the bubble popped…so did the new resident numbers. The slow-down in new residents was bad for new condo developers…but it was a good time for area city officials to 'catch their breath' and start planning for the next wave of growth.

Broward's housing prices have dropped to levels not seen in years, so more people can now afford to move into a new house or condo. The unemployment in Broward is also the lowest of the three counties (Palm Beach, Miami-Dade & Broward), which also might be a contributing factor. While the percentages are not huge…it's a start.

According to the report…the cities in Broward showing the highest percentage of growth:
North Lauderdale - increased from 41,795 to 42,608..or +1.9%
Wilton Manors - increased from 12,626 to 12,868 … or +1.9%
Plantation - increased from 83,662 to 84,892 … or +1.4%
Parkland - increased from 23,904 to 24,146… or +1.0%

The Sun Sentinel is reporting that plans are moving forward to redevelop the old baseball stadium near the Ft. Lauderdale Executive Airport into a hotel and water park complex. The stadium was home to the Baltimore Orioles during their spring training. The Orioles moved to Sarasota last December, which left the space vacant.

On Tuesday, city commissioners voted to negotiate a deal with Schlitterbahn Development Group that will bring a hotel and water park complex similar or nicer than the 'Atlantis' in the Bahamas. The project is estimated to cost near $110 million and is estimated to draw around 10,000 visitors a day. Schlitterbahn claims that this property will be Ft. Lauderdale's 2nd largest attraction (one down from the beach) and it will be the only one of its kind in the US. The project involves NO PUBLIC TAX DOLLARS..which is great news. Developers also say that the park would have an economic impact to the area of around $250 million a year.

The plans call for a water-based conveyor system that would circulate the park…which sounds like a lazy river type ride. There would also 'pool-to-pool' slides and a network of rapids that is supposed to bring the thrill of a rollercoaster. Wave pools will also be included in the fun along with five pools for kids and two pools for volleyball and basketball. Most of the stadium will be demolished with part of it being transformed into a castle-like tower to greet guests at the park's entrance.

They also plan to have some cool things for sports fans. A virtual golf, baseball and softball simulators will be set up for park visitors. There also are plans to have up to four athletic fields on the edge of the property that will allow for intramural team use.

While the admission price of the park is not officially set yet…developers are saying it will be $39.95 for the day with some discounts available. The hotel will have around 300 rooms with prices ranging from $150 - $1,000 a night.

Schlitterbahn isn't new to the water park business. They have water parks in Kansas and Texas and has had a hand in developing a water park in Dubai and the recent expansion of Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas.

I personally think this could be a good move for the area. South Florida and Ft. Lauderdale/Miami need more attractions to bring in the tourists and keep the locals. While we love our beaches…more attractions and activities off the beach seem like a logical move. This should be interesting to see if this project actually pans out.

(Ft. Lauderdale/Miami/West Palm Beaches FREE OF OIL)

Many people have been hearing about the BP oil spill on the news and have heard that some oil has washed up on Florida Beaches.  Well, the only area impacted by the oil spill sits on the extreme north-west part of the state.  South Florida Beaches are clean and oil free.  As of now...there is no oil predicted to hit South Florida Beaches...so go ahead and plan your trips.  Many hotels are offering great deals to lure visitors. Check out some of these deals on Priceline..click:


Florida's beach coastline goes for miles and miles and span 2 bodies of water...the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.  Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm are all ready for the tourists and are eager to make your vacation the best possible.  Don't forget your swimsuit and the sunscreen!  Oh..you might not want to book your flight on Spirit right now (Spirit pilots are still on strike).  Jet Blue and Delta usually have some great prices.

I was walking through the Coral Square Mall today (in Coral Springs, FL) and saw this strange 'attraction'.  Basically...a kid or teen gets into an inflatable 'bubble' and is let loose in a shallow pool of water.  They can run, jump, roll...and they stay dry.  It actually looked kinda fun.  Reminded me of the hamster balls though.  Coral Square Mall is just north of Ft. Lauderdale in Coral Springs, FL.

You might have to adjust your volume a bit lower prior to hitting play.

On Wednesday, June 9, 2010...Winn Dixie opened it's 'new prototype' store in Margate, FL.  They remodeled an old Publix grocery store and hope this new 'concept' Winn Dixie will get them moving in the right direction.  Winn Dixie has been going through some financial difficulty recently and about a year ago...closed many stores in the Southeast US.  Well, they are now moving forward and are hoping that their jingle "Getting better all the time" really means something.

While the new store isn't right around the corner from where I live...I had to take a ride this weekend to check it out.  I've been hearing all kinds of things like "It's like a lower cost Whole Foods".  I read that they not only upgraded the fixtures and the look of the store...but they are getting higher quality inventory and an expanded deli and pre-prepared foods section.


(Huge 'hot food' section of Winn Dixie, Margate, FL)

This is not a gigantic store...but they do a nice job on the layout.  As soon as you walk in...you see the HUGE 'hot food' section.  You have a Chicken Wing bar with 5 kinds of wings on the left of the counter.  Next to that...everything from Fried Catfish to rice to potatoes.  Next to the array of 'hot foods' are the real stars of the pre-made foods.  Hot brisket, beef, rotisserie chicken...and I even hear Prime Rib some days.  There is a guy waiting to carve you a fresh piece. 


(The carving station)


(Fresh meat!)

There is also a BBQ station...where you can help yourself to what you want and you pay by the pound.


(BBQ station...mmmm)

Next to the carving station...you have pre-made foods that are chilled.  The presentation does remind me of Whole Foods.  These are items you take with...to warm up at a later time.


(Pre-made foods...chilled to enjoy later...or even the next day.)

On the other side of the huge space in the front...you will find produce.  Everything was super fresh and they even had all kinds of free samples.  The displays were also very nice.


(Winn Dixie Margate, FL - Produce)


(More Winn Dixie Margate, FL - Produce)

Their wine selection seemed to offer a nice variety along with all kinds of beer.  Their bakery was quite large and seemed to call out as you walked by too.


(Winn Dixie Margate, FL - Bakery)

They also have a pretty nice 'bulk candy' section.  One wall had M&M's...all separated by color.

(Winn Dixie Margate, FL - M&M Bulk by color!)

The rest of the store was set up in typical grocery fashion, but I didn't feel like I was in a Winn Dixie.  And that is a GOOD thing.  The meats looked fresh and all of the employees were very helpful and excited to be showing off the store.

I really hope this store does well...and they keep up the standards.  We need some competition in the Southeast besides Publix and Whole Foods.  So congratulations Winn Dixie...you did get better with this new store.

This new Winn Dixie concept store is located at 5600 W. Sample Rd. in Margate, FL.  (Just Northwest of Ft. Lauderdale)

Father's Day is almost a week away. Why not get him something he'll actually really enjoy this year? Restaurant.com is having a huge sale with $25 gift certificates for only $3! I've used Restaurants.com at many of the restaurants reviewed here on FTLToday.com and they are great. While most come with a few 'rules' (like not valid on Saturday)…they are not unreasonable. When you save $22…how can you pass that up? They are good for a year from the purchase date and are available as soon as you buy them…you simply print them out.  They are also running a sale on the popular 'Dinner of the Month Club' (see link below).

Maybe you are planning that Summer Vacation…why not buy a few gift certificates during this sale? You can search by location (they have participating restaurants all over the US) and heck…even if you don't make it to that particular restaurant during your trip…you are only out $3. I'm loading up on a few for my trip to Vegas next month.

Click below for your savings:


Save 70% Off Dinner of the Month Club Purchases + get a FREE $10 gift certificate. Use code DAD thru 6/13/10.

Holiday Inn is ramping up a new promotion in hopes to 'woo' newlyweds. The actual 'Honeymoon' consists of a gift card that can be used at any US and Puerto Rico Holiday Inn. To get the Honeymoon, you must book your reception at a Holiday Inn. The gift card amount depends on how much your reception costs. For example…if you spend $15,000 (not including tax), your gift card will be $750. If you spend $3,000, you will receive a $200 gift card.

Holiday Inn Hotels have been upgrading and renovating many of their properties. If you haven't stayed in one recently, you might be surprised on how nice they are. There are Holiday Inn's all over Florida and in some of the hottest tourist cities. Check their website out for prices and other rules for the 'Honeymoon on us' promotion.

Miramar, FL based Spirit Airlines grew out of offering low cost airfare around the US and Latin/South America. I have flown them a few times…but have found their customer service to be horrible. They were the first airline to charge for checked luggage. They were one of the first to stop offering free soft drinks. These fees started a few years ago. Now…in 2010…they were the first airline to start charging for Carry-on bags. If you add all of the fees up…they might not be the low-cost carrier you once thought they were.

Well it seems that the customers are not the only ones that are feeling Spirit Airlines financial squeeze. Spirit Airlines pilots are now threatening to go on strike. Talks with Spirit Airlines Management were unsuccessful at securing the increase in pay and benefits the pilots are seeking. The pilots will now be able to strike this Saturday (June 12, 2010) at 12 AM if they feel they need to take their cause to a higher level.

Airline strikes stink for us travelers…but knowing how Spirit treats it's customers…I can only imagine how they treat their employees. Bottom line? If you plan on flying Spirit Airlines over the next few months…you should keep checking their website as your trip gets closer. They will post something stating the impact of a strike if one is started. You also might want to have a backup plan…just in case. If you haven't booked your trip yet? I would stay away from Spirit until this matter is settled..

Find the lowest price on flighs:
 

Michael Vick was supposed to be the 'headlining' guest at a Memorial Day Weekend party at a club inside of the Gulfstream Park Casino. He was paid half of his $10,000 fee for the appearance up-front and was supposed to show up at the event May 29, 2010 at 1 AM.

Vick's booking agent told party promoter Darnell Aponte that Vick really tried to make the appearance, but couldn't due to severe weather cancelling his flight into South Florida. When Vick was a 'no-show', Aponte called him and was quite taken aback by how Vick didn't seem to apologize. "I missed my flight, what the heck do you want me to do about it?" was Vick's response. Hmmmm. What happen to that flight cancellation due to severe weather? A check of the US Airways flight Vick was supposed to be on, shows it was NOT cancelled and was only delayed 26 minutes.

So the booking manager lied. I guess that is what they 'do'. Now…I wonder if Vick really missed the flight…or just blew it off? Not a good move for someone that is trying to shake that bad reputation. Very unprofessional. Hopefully the party promoter can get his cash back from Vick. But, that is only partial compensation. You have to also count the money paid for promotions which is reported to be another $10,000.