Oct. 27, 2005 - The Fort Lauderdale area is getting back to business and pleasure as clean up and power restoration continues. Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades have resumed normal operations. More than 100 of area hotels are open for business. Please check with your favorite for booking. We welcome cruise passengers from the Silversea Silver Whisper tomorrow. The new Carnival Liberty makes her scheduled debut in Port Everglades on November 10.

There is a wide line-up of events going on throughout Broward right now. The "Boss" is back as Bruce Springsteen takes to the stage at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise on November 3. And the Florida Panthers hit the ice with the New York Rangers on November 9. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents Evita from November 15-27.

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show sails into town Thursday, November 3 through Sunday, November 6. Visitors that have reservations and plan to visit, should check with their hotel in advance to ensure the status of the property.

Most attractions are open including Billie Swamp Safari in the Everglades, Butterfly World, Mai-Kai Polynesian Revue, the Museum of Discovery & Science, Stranahan House, Water Taxi and of course, our 23 miles of Blue Wave Beaches are welcoming visitors.

Restaurants and shops along Las Olas Blvd., the downtown Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District and at Seminole Paradise are welcoming visitors. Sawgrass Mills, the Galleria, and Broward Malls are all open for shoppers. The Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival continues its schedule, and Dania Jai Alai is welcoming gaming fans. Brian Piccolo Park and the Velodrome are open for bicyclists and picnickers.

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Oct. 27, 2005 -
Various hotels in Broward County are awaiting the complete restoration of electricity and water. Approximately 90% of hotels will be operational within five hours of the restoration of power. More than 40 hotels have already re-opened and are fully operational. For immediate hotel availability, please call (954) 831-3848.

Nearly 60,000 sq. ft. of the Broward County Convention Center roof was damaged during the storm and water damage was reported inside the facility. Repairs are already in progress and are expected to be completed within six weeks. The Convention Center will be fully operational during these non-intrusive repairs.

The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport will open passengers Friday, Oct. 28, at 7:00 a.m. The first arrivals will begin at 8:00 a.m. and the first departures will take place at 9:00 a.m. Passengers are urged to contact their individual carriers for specific flight information. Those without tickets or reservations should not go to the airport at this time.

Port Everglades suspended land and sea-side operations prior to Wilma's arrival. The Coast Guard has performed soundings to ensure that the port is structurally sound. The Port is now open for cargo operations and will open for cruise ship operations on Saturday, October 29. Cruise passengers sailing from Port Everglades should check with their cruise lines for any sailing schedule changes.

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