Jan 25: Football Fortnight

I've never been to a Super Bowl. But I'd love to go. Never been to a Pro Bowl either. But I'd really like to attend one of the NFL's all-star games too. So what do imagine the odds are for me to nab a ticket in the next couple weeks to one of these big games? I mean, they both will be played right here in South Florida after all. And, like, I'm in the media and everything and I've written lots of sports articles over the years for such publications as Sports Illustrated, Inside Sports and USA Weekend. You'd think I'd have connections to score a freebie, right? You'd think my odds would be ... well, better than average, wouldn't you? Yeah, sure. No such luck. Since I'm not covering the game for anyone, nobody is exactly calling me up with free tickets.

One part of this Pro Bowl/Super Bowl fortnight is free to the public, though. They'll even let in dubious types like writers. Fans can come out from 11am-5:30pm next Sunday to watch the final Pro Bowl practice sessions at Sun Life Stadium, where both games will be played. Really, there's no charge.

I'm not totally sure what's involved, honestly, but the NFL is calling this an "interactive football experience." There will be entertainment and giveaways and concessions as well. Should be fun. Or you can catch some other football hoopla for free around Greater Fort Lauderdale. One event takes place in Hollywood, where "Super Saturday in the Street" will offer complimentary food samples from local restaurants - and the chance to vote on your own favorite. "Extreme tailgating," they're calling this one. They'll be handing out the food from noon to 6pm next Saturday in downtown Hollywood. There's also lots of other stuff going on. Everything from Helmets for Homes Build Day, where the public can help build a house for a needy family, to a Rock ‘N Soul Party with sports agent Drew Rosenhaus, to the NFL Alumni Super Bowl of Golf Showcase. The golf tournament will be held at Grand Oaks Golf Club in Davie and you can participate. The cost? Only $5,000 per foursome. I assume that includes a cart. You can find more details about these and many other Super Bowl-related events right on this same website: http://www.sunny.org/superbowl/ As for me, I'm not sure what I plan to do during this next two weeks of football frenzy around here. But hey, if you're stuck with an extra ticket to one of the games, I'm available.