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Mary Lou Cruz

Mary Lou worked for the South Florida Sun Sentinel for 21 years. She was a special sections writer in the advertising department for 7 years and worked in the newsroom for 14 years. Before her newspaper career, she worked in the airline and travel industry and has lived in Brazil, Puerto Rico and vacationed in more than 25 countries. Motto: "Learning to live a frugal lifestyle is both an art and a science." She can be reached at marylou@miamionthecheap.com.

Memorial Day weekend 2026, for some, means the beginning of summer with picnics at the beach or shopping discounts etc. But for many, it also means taking the time to remember those who have passed in service to their country and reflect on the cost of liberty and freedom for all. The holiday originated in …

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Summer heat means there’s plenty of time to do what Floridians love to do best – play in the water! Marco-Polo — Splish-Splash, come on in, the water’s fine. Grab your swimsuits, it’s time for some aquatic fun under sunny South Florida skies. While some pools, like those at the YMCAs, are usually open year-round, …

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If there’s one thing the folks in Wellington know how to do, it’s … party! And Memorial Day weekend is no exception. Here’s a list of free concerts and events for the whole weekend. Memorial Day Weekend Music Celebration When: Saturday & Sunday, May 23-24, 2026 Where: Wellington Amphitheater, 12100 Forest Hill Blvd. Celebrate the …

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Memorial Day weekend celebrations will feature live music performances on the Lawn at CityPlace in downtown West Palm Beach, from Friday, May 22 to Monday, May 25, 2026. Memorial Day Weekend Music Friday, May 22 6 to 10 p.m.: Mikayla Smith, with Pop, Soul, & Contemporary Covers Saturday, May 23 1 to 4 p.m. features: …

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The Norton Museum of Art is so much more than just an art museum. It has also become a conduit for bringing people together by hosting free community events and interactive activities. This is not your mother’s boring downtown museum. It is actually a museum in a garden setting, with exhibits inside to explore and …

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Spend Monday, Memorial Day, 2026, with free admission for active military and veterans and a vintage garden shop experience at Mounts Botanical Garden, 531 N. Military Trail,  in West Palm Beach, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. I.D. required. Mounts Botanical Garden welcomes everyone to kick off summer with a day filled with beauty, reflection, …

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Before there were superheroes, there were legends — and the ultimate battle is about to begin. Get your free pass for an advance screening from Amazon MGM Studios using the link below. MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE (132 minutes) When: Monday, June 1, 2026, at 7 p.m.* Where: AMC Aventura Mall, 19501 Biscayne Blvd. Get free …

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Movement and creativity are a great recipe to help boost a healthy body and mind. Here’s an event that may facilitate both in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. Arts & Wellness Community Fair When: Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Where: Cultural Council for Palm Beach, 601 Lake Ave., Lake …

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Where can you find hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of products in one place? Check this out: West Palm Beach Spring Home Show When: Friday to Monday, May 22-25, 2026 Times: Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Monday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Location: Palm Beach County Convention Center, 650 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm …

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Got time? If you’ve got some spare time and you’re looking for a way to give back to your community and make a difference in the lives of others, volunteering is a great option. There are many different volunteer opportunities available, so you’re sure to find one that’s a good fit for you. And the …

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Living on the CheapSouth Florida on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Find practical advice on saving money on groceries, travel and shopping, plus tips from our experts on how to live the good life for less at Living on the Cheap.

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