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Patti Roth

Patti Roth, the editor of Fort Lauderdale on the Cheap, scouts out state and national deals, discounts and coupons for our readers, finding the real deals and presenting them in an easy-to-read format. A veteran newspaper and magazine writer and a longtime South Florida resident, she has written for The Miami Herald, The Sun-Sentinel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida Travel and Life, E Environmental Magazine, Dog Fancy, Cat Fancy, US Architecture and Earth911.com. Send your cheap tips to her at info@fortlauderdaleonthecheap.com.

Vintage fire truck. Everglades display. In addition to exhibits, Plantation Historical Museum offers occasional events, model trains, and activities like trivia events. The museum usually is open 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. on  Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with occasional exceptions. Donations are accepted. It’s wise to verify it’s open the day you are interested …

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Parks in South Florida offer watercraft rentals for folks who adore an excursion on the water. Watercraft for rent include stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, paddleboats & others.  Prior to venturing out, phone first. Some parks require pre-payment for watercraft rentals, and occasionally rentals are not available for other reasons. Broward Parks offering boat rentals include Quiet …

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For artists, DIYers and other shoppers who appreciate a deal, Resource Depot sells excess supplies and an eclectic array of items at discount prices. Resource Depot in West Palm Beach focuses on reusing and repurposing random items donated by businesses and individuals.  Artists, educators and families often pick up assorted items for art projects.  Some …

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If you like to shop or are just looking, Fort Lauderdale Art Walk  is an outdoor event featuring local artists, artisans  and other vendors, food for purchase and entertainment. Fort Lauderdale Art Walk is usually 6 p.m. to about 11 p.m. the last Saturday of the month, in the area around 844 NE 4th Avenue, …

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Information about bicycle safety and an opportunity to receive a free bike helmet are featured at a Bicycle Safety event in Weston. The safety program is presented by Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue Department and Safe Kids Broward. The event in 2025 is 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 3, and reservations are required.  Bring your helmet for …

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For free family entertainment, Fort Lauderdale Parks and Recreation is offering outdoor films at Bass Park pool. Lounge by the pool. Or watch a movie with a dip in the water.  Films featured in 2024  include: 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 10: “Spiderman Across the Spider-Verse” 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 14: “Super Mario Bros. Movie” Feel …

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Residents are able to receive vaccinations, nutritional advice and other free health resources while a health van is based at recreation facilities in Hollywood. The health van is in Hollywood to April 30, and is offered different days at different venues. The resources are for kids and adults. Here is the schedule: 9 a.m. – …

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For folks who want to relish the outdoors, parks in South Florida are ideal. Several Broward regional parks that usually require an entry fee on weekends and holidays are free on week days and some holidays. Weekend fees are $3 per vehicle for up to eight people and $20 for at least 9 people. Regional …

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Residents who volunteer to rescue and foster homeless kittens are valuable in South Florida. Some of the rescued kitties are newborns. Others are wandering streets and neighborhoods. For folks interested in rescuing abandoned kittens or fostering them until they’re old enough to be adopted, free information and workshops are offered at Broward Library branches. Kitten …

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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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