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The Las Olas Association stands at the threshold of an exhilarating year, brimming with an array of enriching events and transformative strategies that promise to elevate the allure of the iconic Las Olas Boulevard.
After nearly a year of getting my “feet wet” as Executive Director, I’m thrilled to be able to help shape the growth of the association in the years to come. We have many amazing things lined up already for you this year!
Artistic Extravaganza: January and March Art Fairs Kicking off the year in style, the Las Olas Association proudly presents two exceptional juried Art Fairs hosted by Howard Alan Events. In January and March, the boulevard will come alive with a fusion of creativity, showcasing works from both local and renowned artists. Visitors can once again immerse themselves in a vibrant tapestry of paintings, sculptures, and diverse artistic expressions, fostering a celebration of culture and creativity. Save the dates! January 6-7, 2024 and March 2-3, 2024. For more information regarding these Art Fairs, visit www.artfestival.com.
Indulge in Culinary Excellence: Las Olas Wine and Food Festival April 19th, 2024 heralds the highly anticipated Las Olas Wine and Food Festival, an epicurean spectacle that captivates palates and celebrates gastronomy. This year, the American Lung Association celebrates their Savvy connoisseurs and culinary enthusiasts who will revel in a symphony of flavors, fine wines, and delectable cuisines from renowned chefs and local eateries, transforming the boulevard into a gourmet paradise. Get your tickets early as they have been known to sell out! Visit www.lasolaswff.com for more information.
Empowering Business Membership in 2024 At the core of the Las Olas Association’s vision lies the empowerment of its business community. We exist primarily to foster support with the business owners and managers on and around Las Olas Boulevard. In 2024, we’re proud to amplify our business membership benefits, offering more tailored support and networking opportunities. New additions include specialized committees, each designed to foster growth, connectivity and diversity within our esteemed membership base.
NEW COMMITTEES
Business Development Committee:
Loren Brown, Committee Chair A dedicated forum to nurture entrepreneurial ventures, drive economic growth, and facilitate strategic collaborations. Loren Brown’s extensive experience in business development, coupled with his local presence and community-oriented mindset, makes him a valuable Director of business development for SGS/Nutrasource. His commitment to collaboration and strategic partnerships aligns well with his favorite quote, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” It’s that very sentiment of coming together as a community that made him perfect in this role.
LBGTQ+ Diversity Committee:
Tonio Ellison, Committee Chair Embracing diversity and inclusivity, this committee aims to celebrate and advocate for the LBGTQ+ community, fostering an environment of acceptance and equality. Tonio Ellison, a passionate individual from Fort Lauderdale, FL, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Supervision and Management from Broward College and a Masters Degree in Leadership from Grand Canyon University. He is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion as a community activist.
Tonio has a deep connection with the ocean and cherishes his family. He is a huge fan of Nickelodeon and enjoys spending time at the beach. As a certified Life Coach, Tonio is the proud owner of Release With Tonio LLC. Known for his jovial nature, he finds joy in the gym and cooking healthy meals for his family and loved ones. Tonio aspires to help change the world through motivational speaking, building confidence, and promoting love and awareness, with the ultimate goal of bringing unity to our community and to the world.
Community Connections Committee: A platform for our local businesses and residents to forge meaningful connections, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the neighborhood while sharing and expanding our social media presence as well. We’re still searching for the ideal fit for this committee chair, so if it sounds like something you’d be interested in chairing, please let us know!
If you are interested in becoming an active member of any of these committees, please reach out via email to me at director@ lasolasboulevard.com.
In 2024, the Las Olas Association remains committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive community along this illustrious boulevard. Together, we embark on a journey defined by creativity, culinary delights, business empowerment, and a celebration of diversity.
Join us in shaping a vibrant future as we write a new chapter in the captivating story of Las Olas Boulevard. Happy New Year to you and yours!
Article from LAS OLAS BOULEVARD & ISLES MAGAZINE is the official bimonthly publication of the Las Olas Association providing our local homeowners, residents, businesses and professionals in the Las Olas Boulevard corridor with relevant local news, civic updates and events information specifically and exclusively focused on our own Las Olas Boulevard, Isles and surrounding area.
Las Olas Boulevard & Isles Magazine is published by Fort Lauderdale Media Associates, Inc 401 E. Las Olas Blvd., Ste. 130-599, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 www.ftlauderdalemedia.com | publisher@ftlauderdalemedia.com