Due to the pandemic’s impact, Art Basel announces the cancellation of its 2020 Miami Beach fair

PRESS STATEMENT
MIAMI BEACH | SEPTEMBER 2 | 2020

Due to the pandemic’s impact, Art Basel announces the cancellation of its Miami Beach fair

Given the current situation regarding the pandemic’s impact, which spans from South Florida to other parts of the country and the world; limitations and uncertainty about the staging of large-scale events; international travel restrictions and bans, as well as quarantine regulations within the United States and internationally, alongside other factors, Art Basel has no other option but to cancel the 2020 edition of Art Basel in Miami Beach. Art Basel in Miami Beach was scheduled to take place from December 3 to December 6, 2020 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Noah Horowitz, Director Americas, Art Basel said: ‘It is with great regret and disappointment that we announce the cancellation of our December show in Miami Beach, as we know how crucial our show is for our galleries, as well as for the greater Miami arts community and economy. We thank everyone who shared their perspectives and insights with us over the past months and weeks and look forward to returning to Miami Beach next year to deliver a successful show.’

As the artworld continues to face momentous challenges, Art Basel remains firmly committed to supporting the global gallery community in the best way possible through its digital initiatives and by hosting its upcoming 2021 shows in Hong Kong, Basel, and Miami Beach. Art Basel’s digital initiatives will continue this fall with two individual thematic editions of its Online Viewing Rooms: ‘OVR:2020’, dedicated to artworks produced during 2020 and running from September 23 to 26, and ‘OVR:20c’, presenting works created between 1900 and 1999 from October 28 to 31. These digital events will be followed in December by Online Viewing Rooms that will be open to all galleries accepted to the 2020 edition of Art Basel in Miami Beach. Further details on the upcoming Online Viewing Rooms will follow in the coming weeks.

As has been communicated previously, galleries selected for Art Basel in Miami Beach 2020 will not be charged any participation/booth fees for the December show and application fees will be rolled over to 2021 for accepted galleries.

The next edition of Art Basel in Miami Beach will take place from December 2 to December 5, 2021, with preview days on December 1 and December 2, 2021.

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News: GMCVB Launches Miami Spice To-Go

GMCVB Expands Commitment To Restaurants With The Launch Of New Miami Spice Options And Expansion Of The Award-Winning Miami Eats Program

New Miami Spice To-Go and expanded Miami Eats program provide the restaurant industry with an opportunity to generate business safely and responsibly while helping keep hospitality industry workers employed.
Miami Spice To Go Website
Miami Spice Website
Miami Eats Website

In response to new emergency orders prohibiting indoor dining in Miami-Dade County restaurants, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) adapted the beloved Miami Spice Restaurant program to promote those participants that are offering to-go as well as outdoor dining for their prix-fix meals which include appetizer, main course and dessert for $25 lunch/brunch and $39 dinner. The new Miami Spice options complement the existing and award-winning Miami Eats program developed by the GMCVB in April when local restaurants experienced their first wave of closures. Miami Eats recently won the “Grass Roots Relief Effort Time In Award” for promoting hundreds of restaurants’ takeout and delivery services throughout Greater Miami and the Beaches. Together, Miami Spice-To Go and Miami Eats provides locals the opportunity to enjoy their favorite foods from local culinary establishments, while helping restaurants generate revenue in a safe and responsible way.

More than 100 restaurants are participating in Miami Spice with an outdoor dining option and more than 60 are now offering Miami Spice To-Go. The Miami Spice webpage offers easy to use filters allowing users to search Miami Spice restaurants by neighborhood, cuisine type as well as those offering to-go menus. A similar approach is used with the Miami Eats webpage which provides a list of more than 1,200 restaurants offering takeout and delivery of their standard menus. Miami Eats calls on residents to “Order Out’ and “Help Out” the local restaurant industry by calling them directly to place their orders to avoid fees whenever possible.

“Miami Spice To-Go and Miami Eats are both examples of GMCVB programs created in record-time to respond to the travel and hospitality industry’s urgent need to stimulate business during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said William D. Talbert, III, CDME, President & CEO of the GMCVB. “Miami-Dade County’s travel and hospitality industry is the top employer in the community and the GMCVB is committed to generating business for the industry in a responsible and safe way during these unprecedented times.”

This year Miami Spice is free to all GMCVB partners. Miami Eats is free and open to all Miami-Dade County restaurants regardless of location, cuisine or price point. All respective participants will be listed on the Miami Spice and/or Miami Eats website, offering consumers a single platform and a one-stop-shop with easy browse and search capabilities.

For Miami-Dade residents aware of any restaurant providing delivery or takeout that is not on the Miami Eats current list, please email MiamiEats@GMCVB.com.

For restaurants that would like to participate in Miami Eats, please click here.

For restaurants that would like to participate in Miami Spice To-Go, please email: MiamiSpice@GMCVB.com.

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***BAHAMAS RELIEF INFORMATION***

BAHAMAS RELIEF INFORMATION

Dear Friends, Family, and Fans,

As Hurricane Dorian devastates Bahamas, many organizations and people in the South Florida area have lept to organize relief efforts. Many people have asked us how they can help. Below is a short list of just a few of the many different individuals and organizations helping the Bahamian people.
#BahamasStrong

DONORS: Always remember to check out an organization before giving. We have provided names and web-links with as many as possible to aid your research.

WHAT TO GIVE: Different organizations have different needs. Most will have a list on their website or social media post. Or, you can contact them directly

ORGANIZATIONS: If your organization is also doing relief and is not listed, please feel free to post in comments and we will add it to the list as we can.

Also, check our Facebook Page for updates https://www.facebook.com/LifeIsArtFest/

LIST

Alison Thompson, #ThirdWaveVolunteers, https://www.facebook.com/alisont/posts/10157231760526638, https://www.crowdrise.com/o/en/campaign/hurricane-dorian-let-there-be-solar-lights
*
Valencia Gunder, Miami-Dade Community Emergency Operations Center Bahama Relief, https://www.miamigov.com/Government/BAHAMASTRONG (see flyer), and The Smile Trust https://mthsmile.com
*
Herb Sosa, Unity Coalition, https://unitycoalition.org/Hurricane.html (see flyer)
*
David Grutman, Omar Rosario, Liza Santana-Piñeres, The Global Empowerment Mission, https://www.facebook.com/globalempowermentmission/ (see flyer)
*
Shelly Sitton Tygielski, https://www.gofundme.com/f/Hope4HopeTown (see flyer)
*
Ingrid Hoffman, https://www.instagram.com/ingridhoffmannofficial/, https://www.gofundme.com/f/bahamashurricane-dorian-relief
*
Maria Lacayo, The Bahamas Consulate General (see flyer)
*
Michael Góngora, Bee Zee, Clevelander Fundraiser on September 6, https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hurricane-dorian-victims-fundraiser-tickets-71302193781 (see flyer)
*
Sharon Greenfelt Kersten, https://neighbors4neighbors.org/dorian-relief
*
Coral Gables Fire Rescue, https://nextdoor.com/post/122634087
*
Lila Nikole Rivera Poteet, Mr Kream (see flyer)
*
José Andrés, World Central Kitchen, https://twitter.com/chefjoseandres, https://twitter.com/WCKitchen


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PRESS RELEASE: No Cafe con Fracking Press Conference on 4/18/18

MEDIA ADVISORY
For Immediate Release: Friday, April 12, 2019
Contact: Jackie Filson, 202-683-2538, jfilson@fwwatch.org

Elected Officials and Business Leaders Unveil Anti-Fracking Art Installation

Elected officials, Hialeah business leaders, and local artists will present an art installation at the Leah Arts District to demonstrate the threats of oil fracking

Hialeah, FL — On Thursday, April 18th, local South Florida elected officials, business owners, artists, and residents will gather at the iconic 20ft flamingo mural in the Leah Arts District to unveil a new art installation to demonstrate the threats of oil and gas development near the Hialeah aquifer. Concerned residents will also present sweeping support for banning fracking among local elected officials and business owners in Hialeah and Miami Lakes. A recent court approval to drill for oil in the Everglades sparked outrage over the prospect of drilling and fracking in the Everglades a few miles from Miami’s drinking water sources, leading to this public demonstration.

House Speaker José R. Oliva recently stated that he would vote in support of banning fracking. Residents will discuss the legislation to ban fracking that has been filed in the State Legislature. House Bill 7029 to ban fracking has passed multiple House Committees. Speakers will discuss the loophole present in the bill that would allow fracking using matrix acidizing.

What: No Cafe con Fracking Press Conference
When: Thursday, April 18th at 11 AM
Where: Leah Arts District, 1000 E 15st Hialeah, FL
Who: Hialeah Councilman Paul B. Hernandez, City of Hialeah
Sara Britto, The Art Experience
Salome Garcia, Food and Water Watch

NOTA DE PRENSA
Para difusión inmediata: Viernes 12 de abril de 2019
Contacto: Jackie Filson, 202-683-2538, jfilson@fwwatch.org

Funcionarios Electos y Líderes Empresariales Develan Instalación De Arte Anti-Fracking

Funcionarios electos, líderes empresariales de Hialeah y artistas locales presentarán una instalación artística en el Distrito de Artes de Leah para exponer las amenazas del fracking

Hialeah, FL — El jueves 18 de abril, funcionarios locales electos del sur de la Florida, dueños de negocios, artistas y residentes se reunirán en el icónico mural de flamencos de 20 pies en el Distrito de Artes de Leah para presentar una nueva instalación artística que expone las amenazas de los procesos para el petróleo y gas cercanos al acuífero de Hialeah. Los alarmados residentes también mostrarán el extenso apoyo con que se cuenta entre los funcionarios locales y los dueños de negocios en Hialeah y Miami Lakes para prohibir el fracking. Una reciente aprobación judicial que considera la perforación y fracking en los Everglades, a pocos kilómetros de distancia de las fuentes de agua potable de Miami, causó indignación y condujo a esta manifestación pública.

El presidente de la Cámara, José R. Oliva, declaró recientemente que votaría a favor de prohibir el fracking. Los residentes también discutirán la legislación para prohibir el fracking que se ha presentado en la Legislatura del Estado. El Proyecto de Ley de la Cámara de Representantes 7029 que busca prohibir el fracking, ha sido aprobado por varios comités de la Cámara. Los oradores discutirán el vacío presente en el proyecto de ley que permitiría el uso de está técnica utilizando la acidificación de la matriz.

Qué: Conferencia de Prensa No Cafe con Fracking
Cuándo: Jueves 18 de abril a las 11 AM
Dónde: Distrito de Arte Leah, 1000 E 15st Hialeah, FL
Quiénes: Concejal de Hialeah Paul B. Hernandez, Ciudad de Hialeah
Sara Britto, The Art Experience
Salome Garcia, Food & Water Watch

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News: Matt Haggman Resigns from Knight Foundation

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

The Knight Foundation just circulated this letter:

Our friend and colleague, Matt Haggman, Knight Foundation program director for Miami, has resigned, effective July 21. Chris Caines, who has ably served as Matt’s associate, will assume responsibilities as Knight interim program director for Miami.

Since Matt joined Knight in 2011, we have invested more than $28 million in supporting high-growth entrepreneurship in Miami and South Florida. We intend to continue this important work and to generate a more connected, better supported community of entrepreneurs. Our goal continues to be to make Miami a hub of ideas and innovation.

Chris has been working closely with Matt, our grantees and partners. He embodies Knight Foundation’s commitment to informed and engaged communities and will continue the work seamlessly.

Matt leaves Knight with our profound gratitude for his leadership and efforts. Please join me in wishing him well in his next endeavors.

Mike Abrams of The Miami Herald is circulating the rumor that Haggman may be running for Congress – http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/op-ed/article148195384.html

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Knight Cities Challenge is now open for ideas

The Knight Cities Challenge is now open for ideas. The challenge seeks ideas that make the 26 communities where Knight invests more vibrant places to live and work. Applicants can win a share of up to $5 million for innovative projects that answer the question: What’s your best idea to make cities more successful?

Applications will be accepted until Nov. 3. Ideas should focus on one or all of three key drivers of city success: attracting and keeping talent, expanding economic opportunity, and creating a culture of civic engagement.

If you have questions about the challenge, you can join us for virtual office hours or in-person events to learn more. The schedule, which is regularly updated, can be accessed here.

To enter the Knight Cities Challenge go to knightcities.org and answer a few questions. For more information take a look at this blog post. Follow @knightfdn and #knightcities on Twitter for updates and please spread the word through your networks.

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NEWS: #PodQuest – Radiotopia Launches Search For Podcasting’s Next Breakout Hit, March 17 – April 17. 2016

PRESS RELEASE

Radiotopia Launches #PodQuest, the Search For Podcasting’s Next Breakout Hit

podquestWith $10,000 and four months of mentorship, three finalists will vie for a spot in Radiotopia’s network of acclaimed story-driven podcasts.

Podcast show submissions can be sent via radiotopia.fm/podquest until the April 17, 2016 deadline.

Aiming to discover diverse new voices, introduce audiences to fresh talent, and explore what it takes to bring a podcast to life, the Radiotopia podcast network today launched Podquest, a competition that will give three finalists financial and professional support to develop a podcast for the story-driven network of acclaimed shows such as 99% Invisible, The Memory Palace, Criminal, Song Exploder, and The Mortified Podcast.

Podquest kicks off with a one-month open submission period, during which anyone can submit an original idea for a podcast. Ten semi-finalists will then be interviewed by the Podquest selection team, with three finalists receiving $10,000 (each) to produce pilot episodes for their proposed shows. Over the course of four months, these finalists will receive hands-on support for creating a sustainable podcast, as well as editorial and technical input from Radiotopia’s team of seasoned podcasting experts. At the end of the production phase, one winner will be selected to develop their idea into a full series for inclusion in Radiotopia in 2017. Throughout the Podquest process, 99 Radiotopia supporters will participate by weighing in on submissions and offering feedback on pilot episodes-in-progress.

To help in the development of their podcasting endeavors, all ten of the semi-finalists will also receive an array of professional support including $300, office hours with Radiotopia producers, free Hindenburg radio editing software, a free two-year PRX membership, and a year-long membership with the media talent network AIR.

“Radiotopia’s mission is to provide a powerful, supportive platform for podcasting’s boldest voices,” said Julie Shapiro, Executive Producer of Radiotopia. “Podquest will connect us with ambitious, emerging producers and bring their creative talents to audiences hungry for Radiotopia-style podcasts: shows that consistently showcase innovative, provocative and carefully crafted storytelling.”

Launched in 2014 by PRX, the award-winning public media company, Radiotopia has quickly become the leader in today’s audio storytelling renaissance and grown its roster of hit shows from seven to thirteen. In 2015, Radiotopia podcasts were downloaded more than 10 million times per month, nearly doubling their 5.7 million monthly downloads from 2014.

Podquest is one of a series of new initiatives funded by a $1 million grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation that Radiotopia received in May 2015. Podquest is additionally supported by Hindenburg Systems and AIR.

For more information and to submit your idea, visit radiotopia.fm/podquest.

About PRX
PRX is shaping the future of public media content, talent and technology. PRX is a leading creator and distributor, connecting audio producers with their most engaged, supportive audiences across broadcast, web and mobile. A fierce champion of new voices, new formats, and new business models, PRX advocates for the entrepreneurial producer. PRX is an award-winning media company, reaching millions of weekly listeners worldwide. For over a dozen years, PRX has operated public radio’s largest distribution marketplace, offering thousands of audio shows including This American Life, The Moth Radio Hour and Reveal. Follow us on Twitter at @prx.

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NEWS: Shake 108 FM Launches New Weekly Shows and Key Partnerships

PRESS RELEASE

Shake 108 FM Launches New Weekly Shows and Key Partnerships
Miami’s Homegrown Radio Station Adds Focus on Local Music Scene plus local Industry Veterans to the Mix
Miami, FL – February 10, 2016 – Shake 108 FM, the Miami underground & homegrown non-profit radio station, enters its second year with a big-bang line up of new weekly shows and key partnerships with some of the industry’s most revered professionals.

Founded on the vision of providing music oprn format variety music through an independently owned and operated radio station, Shake 108 FM is giving Miami’s talented musicians such as Suenalo, Afrobeta & Nil Lara; music & nightlife movers & shakers such as DJ George Acosta and Bill Kelly; and local non-profit organizations, a committed platform to promote the local music scene. The new shows, starting on February 14th, 2016, include:

· Local Love Hour – Starting Valentine’s day on Sundays & Wednesdays from 8-9 PM Miami’s own singer/songwriter/DJ, Aimee Beah Moore, will host the locals show playing only music from Miami artists. Suenalo, Afrobeta, Nil Lara, Spam All-stars, Xperimento and many others.

· Bill Kelly’s Open House – Local legend & founder of Winter Music Conference, Bill Kelly is managing his house music show every Monday night from 10-midnight.

· Friday Night PlayHouse – World renowned local DJ George Acosta will be managing house music every Friday night live at “The Bunker 1826” on Collins Avenue in South Beach.

· DJ of the Week – Shake 108 will be featuring one DJ a week every Thursday night to promote the many outstanding DJs spinning at clubs throughout Miami.

· Kulchu Shok Reggae Show – Lance O, founder of Kulchu Shok Music, will be managing reggae music every Saturday morning from 7-9 am

In addition, Shake 108 FM’s founder Peter Stebbins, has brought in Miami’s longtime South Beach promoter Bobby Brandt to help manage the station.

“I feel that the only thing Shake 108 was missing was a strong track-record in the biz,” explains Stebbins. “You can accomplish that over time or by bringing in teammates already with that track record. Bobby is the ultimate Miami music, nightlife expert with unmatched experience. I am really excited he is willing to take a shot at us.”

“Shake 108 is a fantastic platform to deliver what people want to hear, what Miami wants to hear,” adds Brandt. “Peter came to me with such an amazing opportunity: to showcase, in a mass medium, Miami’s incredible talent. I couldn’t say no.”

In addition to local music… Non-profits in Miami have a place to promote their events on the radio with free commercials. This sophomore year Shake 108 will have a team reach out to many Miami non-profits to help them spread the word about community activities. Shake 108 is the voice of Miami’s non-for-profits.

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NEWS: Pérez Art Museum Miami to Change Museum Hours in the New Year 2016

PRESS RELEASE

Pérez Art Museum Miami to Change Museum Hours in the New Year

WHAT: Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), at 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132, will change its operating days as of January 2016. PAMM will be open on Mondays and closed on Wednesdays beginning Monday, January 4. This change was made in response to research indicating that there is more demand among the public for museum hours on Mondays, and that Wednesdays are the lowest attended days of the week.

WHEN:
New operating hours beginning January 1, 2016
Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
10am–6pm
Thursday
10am–9pm
Closed on Wednesdays

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South Florida Knight Arts Challenge Challenge Winners 2015

PRESS RELEASE

53 ideas win $2.36 million in South Florida Knight Arts Challenge
Challenge winners helping to make art general in Miami

MIAMI – Nov. 30, 2015 –The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation tonight named 53 projects as winners of the Knight Arts Challenge – with ideas that will infuse South Florida with art from Miami Gardens to West Kendall, Key West to Hollywood.

A program of Knight Foundation, the challenge funds the best ideas for bringing South Florida together through the arts.

The 2015 winners, mostly small arts organizations, collectives and individual artists, will share $2.36 million. Their ideas range from bringing the stories of West Dade immigrants to stage in a children’s play, to highlighting artists of color in a December art fair, putting poems on sidewalks, launching a downtown jazz festival and blending art and technology through an art hack day.

“High-quality artistic experiences not only inspire, they help bind us to each other and to a common experience, which is critical to a region as diverse as ours,” said Alberto Ibargüen, president of Knight Foundation. “Together, these ideas gets us closer to making art general in Miami, to creating a community where art is available to everyone in all of our neighborhoods.”

With challenge funding, the 2015 winners will:

Highlight Miami as a crossroads for Latin America and the Caribbean with a festival celebrating Ibero-American literature, a “Borderless Caribbean” series that fosters an exchange between Miami and Caribbean contemporary artists, and a cultural exchange and performance with Havana students and members of the Greater Miami Youth Symphony;

Strengthen Miami’s indie film scene with a screenwriter roundtable where filmmakers can receive feedback, an innovative film series on how the brain interprets music and a new publication to cover the industry;

Foster the next generation of creatives by holding music boot camps during teacher workdays, preparing teens for music industry careers with a beats academy in Overtown, and teaching young girls to write and perform rock music at a summer camp; and

Explore climate change through the arts with an artist residency program aboard a sailboat, a dance festival along the waterfront and an interdisciplinary performance featuring five prominent local artists.

“Whether they offer a whimsical take on our city, or probe our region’s most challenging issues, Knight Arts Challenge winners offer a chance for everyone in South Florida to become more deeply engaged in our community through the arts,” said Victoria Rogers, vice president for arts at Knight Foundation. “We hope you will take a moment to look at this year’s choices, participate in an event, donate to a project, and add your voice to our community’s cultural conversation.”

The full list of winners and their project ideas is below. More information is available at knightarts.org.

Also Monday, Miami Girls Rock Camp was named the winner of the Knight Arts Challenge People’s Choice Award, the result of a text-to-vote campaign that ended Nov. 17. The campf was one of four small arts organizations up for $20,000, which is in addition to their Knight Arts Challenge grant and can be used for the artistic project of their choice. Knight created the People’s Choice Award to bring attention to small and emerging arts groups and their contributions to the city.

Knight Arts Champions Honored

At an awards event at the New World Center, Knight Foundation also named four cultural leaders as Knight Arts Champions, honoring their contributions with funds to distribute to a creative project of their choice. The 2015 Knight Arts Champions are:
Kareem Tabsch and Vivian Marthell, co-founders of O Cinema, the independent cinema launched with a Knight Arts Challenge grant and that now has three locations;
Alex Gartenfeld, chief curator for the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami, who guided the institution through its founding and launch in its temporary space in the Design District; and
Rosa de la Cruz, who, through the de la Cruz Collection helps to send Design and Architecture High School and New World School of the Arts students on cultural field trips to New York and Europe respectively.

Knight Foundation has invested more than $122 million in the South Florida arts since 2005, including support for both large institutions to more deeply engage the public, and to propel grassroots efforts through the Knight Arts Challenge. Earlier this year, Knight announced that the challenge, originally launched in 2008, will continue for three more years through 2018.

There are only three rules for applying: 1) The idea must be about the arts; 2) The project must take place in or benefit South Florida; 3) The grant recipients must find funds to match Knight’s commitment. The best receive Knight Foundation funds. More than 10,000 ideas have been submitted over eight years.

Previous funding for large institutions has launched a new media program that includes the signature “Wallcasts” at the acclaimed New World Symphony campus, helped present Ibero-American films at the Miami International Film Festival, brings every Miami-Dade third-grader to the new Pérez Art Museum Miami, and will build a new high-tech recital hall at the University of Miami Frost School of Music, among other projects.

2015 Knight Arts Challenge Winners

Farmers Markets Host Pop-up Concerts
Recipient: A Greener Miami
Amount: $20,000
Expanding audiences for music by hosting mini-concerts in South Florida farmers markets with events preceded by a short explanation of the composer’s inspiration

Arts Educators Teach Virtually
Recipient: Art and Culture Center of Hollywood
Amount: $40,000
Expanding arts education in the region by buying new telepresence equipment so that the center’s staff can interact directly with students in its distance learning arts programs

Artist Residency Sets Sail Aboard Boat
Recipient: ArtCenter/South Florida
Amount: $40,000
Exploring climate change through the arts by creating ARTsail, a one-month residency program aboard a sailboat where participants will be commissioned to create works inspired by Miami’s relationship to water

Children Take “Tales of Miami” to Stage
Recipient: Artefactus Cultural Project
Amount: $15,000
Instilling an appreciation for theater in West Dade’s children through workshops that lead them through the process of staging a play

Sidewalk Poems Take Literary Arts to the Streets
Recipient: Agustina Woodgate
Amount: $20,000
Creating playful encounters with poetry through “Walk on Poems,” where local poets write pieces about neighborhoods that are then placed on sidewalks with Scrabble-like tiles

Hackathon Fuses Art and Technology
Recipient: Bakehouse Art Complex
Amount: $30,000
Bringing Art Hack Day to Miami – an international event, where groups of hackers and artists create an instant exhibition that blends art and technology

Jazz Festival Expands to New Mediums
Recipient: City of Miami Gardens
Amount: $80,000
Expanding the city’s successful Jazz in the Gardens music festival to include a music, film and art conference that fosters a deeper exploration of the additional artistic mediums

Contest Helps Develop New Student Playwrights
Recipient: City Theatre
Amount: $20,000
Developing and giving voice to the next generation of playwrights through a contest where high school students from Broward to Miami-Dade create, rehearse and present short plays and public readings

DanceAfrica Comes to Miami
Recipient: Delou Africa
Amount: $15,000
Celebrating the arts of the African diaspora in Miami by expanding Delou Africa’s annual festival in collaboration with the founders of the national Dance Africa showcase

Community Gets Access to Letterpress
Recipient: Extra Virgin Press
Amount: $10,000
Preserving the art of letterpress by creating a space where the community can learn and practice this handmade form of communication

New Performance Piece Explores Rising Tide
Recipient: Florida International University
Amount: $30,000
Exploring the complexities of sea level rise in South Florida through an interdisciplinary performance featuring electronic sounds, orchestral musicians, video and dance in partnership with five prominent local artists

Library Becomes Museum’s Temporary Home
Recipient: Friends of the Bass Museum
Amount: $75,000
Infusing a library with art through a series of solo artists projects and education programs at the Miami Beach Regional Library while the Bass’ building is under renovation

Downtown Art Installations Explore Unconventional Spaces
Recipient: Fringe Projects
Amount: $35,000
Activating downtown Miami’s less conventional spaces by expanding this site-specific, temporary public art commissioning program

Hidden Musical Talents Showcased Onstage
Recipient: FUNDarte
Amount: $120,000
Bringing attention to Miami’s hidden musical talents, many of whom have immigrated to the city and have not yet made it to main stage venues, through a collaborative series with established companies and artists

Gay Arts Groups Team Up
Recipient: Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida
Amount: $40,000
Increasing the visibility of South Florida’s LGBT arts scene through joint programming between the chorus, Island City Stage and Stonewall National Museum and Archives

Havana and Miami Youth Collaborate
Recipient: Greater Miami Youth Symphony
Award: $55,000
Creating cultural exchanges between Miami and Havana students through joint rehearsals and concerts with Cuba’s Amadeo Roldan Conservatory Orchestra

Exhibition Series Connects Miami and Caribbean Artists
Recipient: Haitian Cultural Arts Alliance
Award: $40,000
Exploring the realities of living and creating in cross-cultural communities through the “Borderless Caribbean,” a series of exchanges and exhibitions between Miami and Caribbean contemporary artists

Collaboration Makes Classical Musical More Accessible
Recipient: IlluminArts
Award: $20,000
Engaging Miami audiences with an innovative, fully staged performance of a Pulitzer Prize-winning composition inspired by the visual art at the Pérez Art Museum Miami

Indie Film Scene Receives Increased Coverage
Recipient: Independent Ethos
Award: $15,000
Giving South Floridians an insider’s peek into Miami’s growing indie film and music scene through a website that covers the local industry

Film Series Explores Brain on Music
Recipient: Corpus Callosum
Award: $80,000
Exploring how the human brain interprets music through the creation of a new form of audience experience that combines classical music performances with advancements in neuroscience, in partnership with the New World Symphony and the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science

Roundtable Strengthens Indie Filmmaking
Recipient: Kenny Riches
Award: $8,000
Strengthening the indie filmmaking community through a screenwriter roundtable where participants can get feedback on new material

Art Series Engages Tri-Rail Commuters
Kip Eagen
$5,000
Engaging transit riders in art by creating a series of artistic billboards along the TriRail tracks that would appear to be an animated flipbook as riders fly by

Miami Youth Learn Junkanoo Traditions
Recipient: Leadership Prep Foundation
Amount: $25,000
Celebrating Bahamian culture by teaching Miami youth to make traditional Junkanoo costumes and instruments, which are used during Coconut Grove’s annual Goombay/Junkanoo Festival and in other events

Sculptures Reflect Fear in Media
Recipient: Locust Projects
Amount: $60,000
Exploring how fear is used in the media by creating sculptures of headless chickens, called Withervanes, that change colors to reflect the prevalence of fear-related keywords in news stories

Theater Explores Censorship Onstage
Mad Cat Theatre Company
Amount $25,000
Promoting discussion about the impact of censorship by presenting a banned play and then producing a new work inspired by incidents of censorship in South Florida.

Waterfront Residency Comes to Key Biscayne
Recipient: Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center
Amount: $25,000
Helping inspire South Florida artists through a residency program at the waterfront center in Crandon Park

Ballet Presents Shakespeare Miami-Style
Recipient: Miami City Ballet
Award: $150,000
Reimagining a classic by presenting a uniquely Miami rendition of George Balanchine’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” during the company’s 30th anniversary season.

Latino Artists Engage Little Havana
Recipient: Miami Dade College’s Koubek Center
Amount; $100,000
Cultivating emerging Latino artists through an artist-in-residence program that provides them the space to produce work that reflects and engages the surrounding Little Havana neighborhood

Dance Performance Highlights Importance of Water
Recipient: Miami Dance Futures
Award: $20,000
Bringing attention to the water supply through National Water Dance Miami, a countywide celebration of site-specific dances – involving both professionals and local students –along the region’s shore

Camp Empowers Girls to Perform Music
Recipient: Miami Girls Rock Camp
Amount: $20,000
Promoting creative expression and empowering young girls through an annual camp where participants are grouped into bands and learn to write and perform an original song

Miami Makerspace Expands
Recipient: Miami Industrial Arts (MIA)
Amount: $15,000
Expanding a hub for Miami’s makers by constructing an onsite classroom and offering subsidized classes in ceramics, wood, metalworking and 3-D technologies

Light Box Provides Space for Incubating New Performance Works
Recipient: Miami Light Project
Amount; $120,000
Providing a space for developing new work and new techniques by piloting a contemporary performance residency program at The Light Box at Goldman Warehouse in Wynwood for international and local artists

School Days Off Turn Into Music Boot Camps
Recipient: Miami Music Project
Award: $105,000
Helping 100 Miami-Dade students push their own artistic limits through a series of orchestral boot camps taking place on teacher planning days throughout the school year

Concerts and Films Coming to Sweetwater
Recipient: NC-office
Award: $30,000
Activating a public space through culture by presenting concerts and films in a new plaza in the city of Sweetwater next to Florida International University’s West Dade campus

Legacy Media Materials Get New Archive
Recipient: Obsolete Media Miami
Award: $30,000
Preserving legacy media, such as 35 mm slides and archival motion pictures, through an archive that serves as a resource for artists, designers, filmmakers and researchers

Academy Preps Teens for Music Careers
Recipient: Overtown Youth Center
Amount: $40,000
Preparing teens for careers in the music industry through The Beats Academy, which will teach a range of topics from music theory to remixing

Artists of Color Shine at December Art Fair
Recipient: Prizm
Award: $80,000
Promoting the works of artists of color who reflect global trends in contemporary art through an annual fair that takes place during Art Basel Miami Beach

Residency Program Expands Little Haiti Gallery
Recipient: Rise Up Gallery
Award: $25,000
Strengthening an artist-run collective that provides studio space to local artists, gallery space for innovative curatorial projects and artistic programming for the community

Movie Lovers Pay Homage to 35 mm Films
Recipient: Secret Celluloid Society
Award: $15,000
Preserving classic films by converting a 1986 bookmobile into a portable project booth that brings 16 mm/35 mm and high-resolution digital projection to Miami neighborhoods

Six Composers Celebrate 15 Years of Seraphic Fire
Recipient: Seraphic Fire
Award: $100,000
Celebrating the group’s 15th anniversary by commissioning and presenting six new American choral works, championing both top composers and emerging talent

Illustrations Memorialize Miami Bands
Recipient: Show Drawn; The Upper Hand Art
Award: $8,000
Drawing attention to Miami’s vibrant music scene, with the goal of encouraging more bands to play here, by creating a series of illustrations of local performances to be published in print and online

Overtown Festival Expands
Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency
Award; $50,000
Celebrating Overtown’s culture through the sixth annual Overtown Music and Arts Festival featuring national and local recording artists

Audio Equipment Rentals Come to Sweat Records
Recipient: Sweat Records
Award: $50,000
Supporting the local indie music scene by providing low-cost rentals of audio equipment for independent promoters and nonprofit event producers

ASK Hispanic Theater Gets New Focus
Recipient: Teatro Prometeo at Miami Dade College
Award: $35,000
Fostering Hispanic theater in Miami, and raising its prominence nationally, through a partnership with the national Latina|o Theatre Commons where the college will host a prominent Latino playwright in residency

Residency Helps Students Create Songs
Recipient: The alt Default
Award: $9,000
Helping teens find their musical voice through a residency for this ensemble at the Fienberg-Fisher K-8 Center in Miami Beach where students will create an original song

Festival Showcases Ibero-American Literature
Recipient: The Betsy-South Beach
Award: $50,000
Celebrating Ibero-American poetry, literature, scholarship and experience through Escribe Aqui/Write Here, a multiday bilingual festival fueled by ongoing cultural programming to champion Miami’s diversity

High-Profile Concert Showcases Student Performers
Recipient: The Miami Symphony Orchestra
Award: $60,000
Offering visibility to pianists younger than 12 through a competition, where the finalists perform with the orchestra at a high-profile concert

TransAtlantic Festival Gets Refresh
Recipient: The Rhythm Foundation
Award: $50,000
Providing a home for world music by rebooting the annual TransAtlantic Festival at the North Beach Bandshell – bringing in more ambitious programming and expanding the event into the adjacent public spaces

Artistic Treasure Hunt Key Reveals West History
Recipient: The Studios of Key West
Award: $50,000
Providing a new way to explore Key West’s history and culture through an event called Lost at the Beach, where participants use maps and apps to discover performances and installations hidden throughout Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Series Focuses on Power of the Elements
Recipient: Tigertail
Award: $75,000
Creating new artistic experiences through a month-long performance series that explores water—in April 2016—and fire—in April 2017—as elements that give and take through tragedy and regeneration

Zine Centers on Miami Beach’s 100th
Recipient: Tom Austin
Award: $15,000
Celebrating Miami Beach’s centennial by publishing a cultural history of South Beach, an exploration of how the arts – music, dance, fashion, visual arts, film, literature, culinary culture and nightlife – have fueled this iconic resort city

Environmental Art Works Come to the Gardens
Recipient: Village of Pinecrest/Pinecrest Gardens
Award: $25,000
Bringing the arts more deeply into communities by inviting acclaimed American environmental artist Patrick Dougherty, who creates sculptures from community-sourced saplings, to create new site-specific works in the gardens

Jazz Fest Comes to Downtown
Recipient: 88.9 FM WDNA Public Radio:
Award: $75,000
Bringing jazz to more Miamians by launching the Miami Downtown Jazz Festival, which will take over several blocks in downtown and continue in various venues

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EMORY Vodka Launches Subliminal Guerilla Marketing Campaign during Art Basel 12/1/15 – 12/6/15

PRESS RELEASE

EMORY Vodka Launches Subliminal Guerilla Marketing Campaign during Art Basel

Artist Blake Emory_Zebra LoveFollowing the memorable debut of Zebra Love by Blake Emory at Spectrum Miami during last year’s Art Basel, Blue Vase Marketing, a full service agency specializing in direct response, talent acquisition and strategic brand development, will be capitalizing on the unique brand marketing platform that Art Basel and Miami Art Week provides, as part of the company’s latest product launch aimed at drawing the attention of this highly sought after and captive audience.

EMORY Vodka – a new ultra-premium line of 100% corn-based, Naturally Gluten Free vodka with a unique design concept inspired by the artist in “Optic Modernism” Blake Emory from New York – will mount an aggressive guerilla marketing campaign during the art world’s most prestigious week. Following a highly successful summer-long trade and industry launch, resulting in the product’s off-premise growth in retail outlets across select markets, EMORY Vodka is targeting the week of Art Basel in South Florida as a platform to initiate awareness on-premise – within select hotels, bars and restaurants hosting an international fanfare of art enthusiasts from across the globe.

“Zebra Love by Blake Emory received tremendous brand recognition during last year’s Art Basel,” says Michael Alden, CEO and President of Blue Vase Marketing. “Miami was the first market to catch a glimpse of EMORY Vodka in December and over the last twelve months the brand has grown to become an industry pioneer in product design among a colossal premium beverage market,” Alden adds. “Our limited edition line of naturally Gluten Free vodka is now rapidly expanding across major states throughout the southern and eastern seaboard. Miami is an ideal launch market now on our radar and we aim to capitalize on the popularity of Art Basel with a subtle yet precision-based product placement tactic. The Zebra Love oil on canvas brand extension transformed for the EMORY Vodka product line will resonate extremely well with the pop art enthusiast and among industry tastemakers and social influencers whom regularly attend this coveted week of events.”

Commencing for the week of Art Basel and throughout the high season in Miami, EMORY Vodka will be strategically poured at the most buzzworthy locations and venues, starting at the heart of this year’s mountain of Art Week events. Among them will be a presence at Metropolitan by COMO, Miami Beach – the city’s number hotel on Trip Advisor – at which EMORY Vodka will be served behind the hotel’s popular Traymore Restaurant and Bar. International press is buzzing about the newest Barcelona-inspired Mediterranean hotspot, KLIMA Restaurant and Bar, that will also include EMORY Vodka on its cocktail menu each night and for the grand opening of its second floor club and lounge “K Club” that will be unveiled on December 4th. A number of local media partners will also be collaborating with the vodka line for a series of private and exclusive VIP events during Art Basel, sponsored by EMORY Vodka.

EMORY Vodka is one of the few to enter the ultra-premium beverage market as a one hundred percent corn based product that is naturally gluten free while being six times distilled during the fermentation process. EMORY Vodka has been positioned as one of the first artist-inspired premium vodka lines introduced to the beverage industry during this year’s Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America Annual Convention in Orlando in April.

New York based artist Blake Emory, one of today’s most innovative pioneers in the Optic Modernism movement, has developed a unique extension of his existing Zebra Love oil on canvas signature collection for the brand design of EMORY Vodka. Michael Alden, CEO and President of Blue Vase Marketing, in partnership with Emory, has translated the Zebra Love concept on to frosted glass and will be releasing the limited edition premium vodka supported by one of the country’s leading strategic marketing firms for the beverage industry, Pearson & Pearson. Imported and bottled by the newly formed Zebra Love, LLC parent company, Emory’s Zebra Love design is embossed on to a signature artisan bottle, complete with Emory’s trademark red stiletto. Emory Vodka marks the first brand extension in the Zebra Love series and features Emory’s “Shauna1” design for the inaugural product adaptation. A portion of proceeds from the sales of Emory Vodka is donated to the ASPCA to help prevent cruelty to animals.

Zebra Love is the latest anthology by the New York artist Blake Emory, whose collective series of theoretical works is capturing the attention of not only the fine art world, but also the country’s leading brand visionaries within the marketing community.

Emory’s Zebra Love series represents the artist’s inspired discovery of what he refers to as “nature’s grand design” that encapsulates an artistic expression of retro fashion with love, passion and “divine geometry” from the animal kingdom. Zebra Love portrays an underlying theme based on a fluid visual depiction of Zebra stripes that are carved to form the foundation of a multi-dimensional approach to acrylic on canvas. Using an individual female model and form as the muse for every piece of work, the curvaceous and nude silhouette of each chosen woman is juxtaposed against the Zebra design and blended within the center of the frame to convey a layered optical illusion at first glance. Emory describes his final touch as a “passionate step in to the world of love needed to liberate us from the human construct,” illustrated by a retro-style red stiletto worn on one foot – giving the black and white design its signature dash of vibrant color, fashionable overture and overtly sexual connotation.

Priced at $29.99 for 750ml, EMORY Vodka is targeting high volume cities around the country known for a trendsetting consumer audience, including Atlanta, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles and Miami.

For further information on EMORY Vodka, visit www.emoryvodka.com

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NEWS: Art Boca Raton to Benefit Boca Raton Museum of Art

PRESS RELEASE

David and Lee Ann Lester of Next Level Fairs announce that the opening preview of Art Boca Raton Contemporary Art Fair will benefit the Boca Raton Museum of Art on March 17th, 6-10 pm. Local business and philanthropic leaders Dalia and Duane Stiller will Chair the fund raising event, which will be called “Art Boca Raton Vernissage”. A VIP Preview will begin at 6-7:30 pm followed by a Collectors’ Preview from 7:30-10 pm. The benefit will be led by a prestigious Collectors and Connoisseurs Committee. Over 400 collectors and enthusiasts will gather for the fair preview cocktail party with musical entertainment, dinner by the bite and cocktails during the inaugural fair preview.

“We are very excited that the Boca Raton Museum of Art will be hosting the preview opening night Vernissage as a benefit for the Museum and a way for us to show our hospitality in kicking off Art Boca Raton,” said Dalia Pabón Stiller, Museum Board Chair, who will serve as the Chair of the Vernissage along with her husband Duane Stiller.

Dalia and Duane Stiller are well known business and community leaders. Dalia has an active career as an architectural designer and serves as the President of the Board of Trustees of the Boca Raton Museum and on the Board of Trustees of Cornell University. Duane Stiller founded Woolbright Development, one of Florida’s largest retail real estate companies, and personally supports numerous charities: American Heart Association, American Red Cross, Boca Raton Museum of Art, St. Andrews School, and Cornell School of Architecture and Engineering.

Art Boca Raton will be open to the pubic March 18-21, 2016 and will be held in the International Pavilion of the Palm Beaches on the campus of Florida Atlantic University in the heart of Boca Raton. Showcasing contemporary, modern and emerging art, sculpture, photography, works on paper and installations, the fair will offer a broad range of art to both beginning and seasoned collectors. Art Boca Raton will encompass 60-65 dealers carefully selected by a curatorial committee in order to assure dealer quality and exclusivity.

In conjunction with Art Boca Raton, the Boca Raton Museum of Art is hosting lectures at the fair and “After Dark” evening events of art, music, performance, and wine at the Museum each evening from 6-8 pm and a special presentation on the museum’s exhibition Warhol on Vinyl: Record Covers, 1949-1987 and Warhol Prints from the Collection of Marc Bell.

“Art Boca Raton brings to our city a broader look at the world of art, bringing art dealers and collectors from all corners of the world. Our effort is to ensure that the spirit of the fair permeates the entire city,” said Irvin Lippman, Executive Director of the Boca Raton Museum of Art.

The International Pavilion of the Palm Beaches will include a 65,000 sq. ft. / 6,100 sq. meter exhibition hall, a full service restaurant, sculpture garden, and lecture hall facility. Ample parking and valet service will be available to fair attendees.

Vernissage VIP and Collector Ticket Sales
www.bocamuseum.org/vernissage
VIP Preview 6 – 7:30 pm: $250 per person
Collector’s Preview 7:30 – 10 pm: $150 per person
RSVP required by March 10, 2016
Phone: 561.392.2500, ext 213
Fax: 561.391.6410
Email: info@bocamuseum.org
Fair information and ticket sales: www.artbocaraton.com

Public Hours
March 18-21; 11 AM – 6 PM

Location
International Pavilion of the Palm Beaches
Florida Atlantic University
777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, FL

About Boca Raton Museum of Art
The Boca Raton Museum of Art is the only museum in South Florida founded by artists. Established in 1950 as the Art Guild of Boca Raton, the organization has grown to encompass an Art School, Guild, and Museum with distinguished permanent collections of contemporary art, glass, non-western art, photography, and sculpture, as well as a diverse selection of special exhibitions. The Museum is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 AM until 5 PM; on Thursdays from 10 AM until 8 PM; and on weekends from 12 PM until 5 PM. Admission is free during the month of August and on the first Sunday of every month; otherwise $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, and free for students with IDs and children under 12. Learn more at www.bocamuseum.org.

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NEWS: Beck’s Urban Canvas Launches in Miami This Summer with 15 Murals Spread Throughout Wynwood, Little Haiti, Little Havana and Hialeah

PRESS RELEASE

Beck’s Urban Canvas Launches in Miami This Summer with 15 Murals Spread Throughout Wynwood, Little Haiti, Little Havana and Hialeah
The Art and Community Revitalization Campaign Will Feature Twelve Miami-Based Artists, Encouraging Their Creative Freedom and Supporting Events in Miami’s Burgeoning Communities

BecksUCMiami, FL (July 9, 2015) – Beck’s, the world’s most recognized German-style beer, introduced Beck’s Urban Canvas today, a community-focused art project aimed at neighborhood revitalization and the fostering of progressive thinking in Miami. Beck’s is continuing its tradition of supporting creators and innovators from around the world. For the first ever Beck’s Urban Canvas project, 12 visionary artists from Miami have been hand-selected to create 15 original works of art throughout the Magic City. These specially commissioned murals and installations will come to life in Miami’s creatively inspired communities of Little Havana, Little Haiti, Wynwood and in the recently launched artist live/work area known as the Leah Arts District in Hialeah. The Beck’s Urban Canvas crew of multicultural artists include: Trek 6, Don Rimx, Hoxxoh, Typoe, Jose Mertz, Tatiana Suarez, 2 Alas, Ernesto Maranje, Magnus Sodamin, Diana Contreras, Jessy Nite and Abstrk.

The Beck’s Urban Canvas project will also come to life at special events this summer season. Beck’s Urban Canvas will create special pop-up party experiences while supporting essential community programming such as Viernes Culturales in Little Havana, Big Night in Little Haiti, Arts and Entertainment District, the Leah Arts District and Wynwood Art Walk.

“We are always looking to enable artists and support communities in South Florida that are taking part in really interesting and community-focused work. The things that may go unnoticed at first, but ultimately can’t be ignored,” said Becks Regional Marketing Director, Mateus Schroeder, “The artists we’ve invited to participate in this project are helping to shape the local culture and we are excited to share their creations with Beck’s drinkers and support events in these respective communities that everyone can appreciate.”

Beck’s Urban Canvas is intended to celebrate the relationship between creative expression and community engagement. Events will be announced on social media via the #BecksUrbanCanvas hashtag. Art lovers are invited to visit the murals during this creative process and share photos on social media.

For more details, please visit BecksUrbanCanvas.com. Follow #BecksUrbanCanvas for up to date information.

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NEWS: Monica Burguera Foundation Partners with Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show for 6th Annual Fishing and Spearfishing for Boating Safety Tournament

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Miami, FL, July 9, 2015 – The Monica Burguera Foundation (MBF) announced today the Progressive® Insurance Miami International Boat Show® as sponsor of its upcoming 6th Annual Fishing and Spearfishing for Boating Safety Tournament, taking place Saturday, August 8, 2015 at the Key Biscayne Yacht Club. The tournament draws more than 100 anglers and all funds raised will go towards free monthly boating safety classes that are held in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard as part of MBF’s mission to spread awareness for watercraft safety and boating education.

As Silver Sponsor of the Fishing Tournament, Miami Boat Show organizers will be onsite during the Captains Reception on August 6 and during the fishing tournament on August 8 to support MBF and the show’s shared mission to spread awareness for boating safety and education; the boat show will provide boating safety courses through its Discover Boating Hands-On Skills Training courses and other programs during the annual event February 11-15, 2016 at its new home, Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin.

Registration per boat for the Fishing and Spearfishing for Boating Safety Tournament is $500; $50 for extra anglers on boat. The registration fee includes: Captains Reception, boat goodie bag, tournament t-shirt, day of fun for family and friends, Post-Tournament Cocktail Party, and Award Ceremony. The fee is $35.00 for adults and $25 for children who don’t wish to fish but would like to support and attend the tournament. Register today at www.mbfBoatingSafety.org

Other sponsors for MBF’s 2015 Fishing and Spearfishing for Boating Safety Tournament include:

· Gold Anchor Sponsors: Rickenbacker Marina, Inc, Estrella Insurance, Gincho Production, SeaHunter, Joe L. Fernandez
· Silver Anchor Sponsors: ACR Electronics, Progressive Insurance International Miami Boat Show
· Bronze Anchor Sponsor: Roma
· Anchor Sponsors: B&B Manufacturing Corp, Star Casualty, Star Brite,
· Media/Marketing Sponsors: Imagen, Planeta Media
· Beverage Sponsors: Anchor Distilling Co., Islamorada Beer Company, Copa Di Vino, Marley Beverage, Sparkling Ice
· Burgee Sponsors: Nova Southeastern University Oceanographic Center, USA Coast Guard Auxiliary, Sea Tow, Sailboards Miami, BOATPIX, Key Biscayne Yacht Club, Mercy Hospital

To register, volunteer, sponsor and get more information, please contact Mari Novo at mm@monicaburguerafoundation.org or 305-398-4609 or visit: www.mbfBoatingSafety.org

About Monica Burguera Foundation
The Monica Burguera Foundation (MBF) was created in memory of Monica Burguera, a 20-year-old Florida International University student who died in a tragic boating accident during the 2006 Columbus Day weekend festivities in Miami, Florida. The Foundation is committed to saving lives and making our waters safer for all by promoting watercraft safety and boater education. Through a combination of community education, outreach and events, the Foundation works to create boating safety awareness as well as to prevent boating accidents. To learn more about the Monica Burguera Foundation, make a contribution or to sign up for free watercraft safety classes, please go to www.mbfBoatingSafety.org
With your support, we can do even more to help save lives and prevent boating accidents.

About the Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show
The Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show is produced by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the world’s largest producer of boat shows and the leading association representing the recreational boating industry. The boat show generates $600 million of economic activity each year and supports 55,000 Florida jobs. In 2016, the show will celebrate its 75th year and a new location at Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin. NMMA member companies produce more than 80 percent of the boats, engines, trailers, accessories and gear used by boaters and anglers throughout the U.S. and Canada. The association is dedicated to industry growth through programs in public policy advocacy, market statistics and research, product quality assurance and promotion of the boating lifestyle. For more information, visit www.nmma.org.

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Conversations with Leaders in Art: It Doesn’t Stop at Basel 6/23/15

Conversations with Leaders in Art: It Doesn’t Stop at Basel
Tuesday, 06/23/2015 – 06:00 pm – 07:30 pm
MAX_7217Bakehouse Art Complex
561 NW 32 Street,
Miami, Florida 33127
None Link
Cost:

On June 23, United Way of Miami-Dade Young Leaders hosted Conversations with Leaders in Art: It Doesn’t Stop @ Basel. Conversations with Leaders is focused on connecting Young Leaders with local industry experts and their work’s development and impact in our community. This first event, held at Bakehouse Art Complex (check the name), focused on the Miami art community and featured a diverse panel of innovative art professionals, including Bonnie Clearwater of NSU Museum of Art Ft. Lauderdale, Jill Deupi of Lowe Art Museum, Nina Johnson-Milewski of Gallery Diet, Jessica Katz of Christie’s, and Justin H. Long and Marte Siebenhar of Bakehouse Art Complex. To learn more about Young Leaders and how to get involved, contact youngleaders@unitedwaymiami.org.

New Taxi App, ZabCab, Announces National Rollout Starting in Miami

zabcab_logo_squared_512px

 

ZabCab (TM), a free new mobile app that connects passengers to licensed taxi drivers with a tap on their smartphone. The app makes grabbing a cab in Miami simple.  Users are only required to download the app, enter their first name and add their email address.  No lengthy profile or credit card required.

ZabCab aims to alleviate the hassle of getting a registered taxi in Miami by using your smart phone’s GPS technology to connect passengers to licensed taxi drivers within a short radius. Taxi drivers using ZabCab will reduce time spent searching for passengers and in turn, will maximize earning potential. After its inaugural launch in Miami, ZabCab will be announcing service in three major metropolitan cities over the next 90 days.

For more information, visit zabcab.com or contact:

THR33FOLD

Jamie Santucci

jamie@thr33fold.com

Posted in News   

National Philanthropy Day 2015 Call for Nominations

PRESS RELEASE

afpmiamiThe Association of Fundraising Professionals – AFP Miami continues its tradition of honoring the local philanthropic community at the annual National Philanthropy Day Awards luncheon, which will take place on Thursday, November 12, 2015. Each year, several hundred members of the community gather to recognize and celebrate the who’s who of Miami philanthropy.

In 1985, AFP Miami initiated the first National Philanthropy Day awards event. Today, National Philanthropy Day (NPD) is celebrated across North America and around the world.

AFP Miami’s annual NPD luncheon is Miami’s premier philanthropy event. This special day is set aside to recognize and pay tribute to the great contributions that philanthropy-and the people active in Miami’s philanthropic community-have made to our lives, our local community and our world. Because it’s the 30th anniversary, this won’t be your father’s (or mother’s) National Philanthropy Day celebration!

AFP Miami is proud to work with its NPD partners – The Miami Foundation, Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, and Partnership for Philanthropic Planning – to advance philanthropy and highlight the generosity of our community’s top donors. Each year, AFP Miami offers the local community an opportunity to acknowledge, highlight and pay tribute to philanthropic excellence. We invite nominations for extraordinary individuals, corporations and foundations in one of the following distinguished award categories:

* Outstanding Philanthropist Award
* James W. McLamore Outstanding Volunteer Award
* Julia Tuttle Award for Community Involvement & Corporate Citizenship
* Outstanding Grant Maker Award

In addition, each NPD table sponsor will be provided with the opportunity to recognize their own table honoree with a personalized engraved gift.

Click here for the Request for Nomination Package. Please share among your colleagues, nonprofits and for-profits (they support philanthropy, too!) help us say “Thank you, Philanthropic Miami.”

Nominations must be submitted by May 23 to be considered. Any forms received after this date may be considered for the following year’s awards.

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2nd Annual Ceviche Festival Where Proceeds Went for a Great Cause by Betty Alvarez

The 2nd Annual Ceviche Festival was a celebratory event for the whole family which all proceeds when to the construction for the completion of La Merced Museo Peru Church, the first church and Peruvian museum in Miami.

The event had distinguished personalities such as Raquel Regalado, Tomas Garcia Fuste from Mira TV, Univision covered the event, and other media outlets. Guests had a wonderful Sunday that was marked by solidarity, great food, cooking sessions and spectacular shows of traditional Peruvian dancers, live music, etc.

Supporters of the event included El Mero Loco II, Mochila del Chef, Cevicheria Rosita, Divino Ceviche’s Chef Christian Encalada Alvan, Rizio’s Peruvian Cuisine Chef Mauricio Valverde & Cesar Valverde, El Huarike Peruano Chef Ysabel Bartra, Mari Morla, Cholos Ceviche Grill’s Chef Fabricio Pareja, La Huaca Peruvian Cuisine Ines & Aida Morales, El Pollo Inka Miami’s Chef Daniel D. Cespedes Titinger, El Punto Peruano Peruvian Food Truck Chef Pedro Enrique Rodriguez, Asociacion Cultural Peru Danza and many more.

The Corpus Christi Church and Iglesia de la Merced will be a church museum with artifacts, relics, and historical accounts of Peru. The original church is currently in Lima and soon there will be one on Miami displaying the richness of the Peruvian culture.

O, Miami 2015 Secret Sonnets

Want to send a love poem to someone…in Braille? Let someone know you are thinking of them by sending them a “Secret Sonnet”. And let Soul of Miami help you share your thoughts with your special someone.

Secret Sonnets is an original project for O, Miami 2015 that brings attention to a beautiful and important code that allows the visually impaired to read. Emily Connor and her team of local students will transcribe your original poem into uncontracted Braille, then mail it to your someone special. Each poem will include a Braille/Print alphabet cheat sheet for decoding.

Those interested, please visit http://omiami.submittable.com/submit/40207

The submitted poem should be an original body of work, less than 14 lines long, and the intended recipient must be a resident of Miami-Dade County. It must be submitted before the April 15, 2015 deadline.

From April 11-20, 2015, the poems will be transcribed into Braille and checked for errors. Beginning on April 21, 2015, the Brailled poems will be mailed using USPS. And if you would like, Soul of Miami would love to publish your poem on our web site.

News: The Marlins Foundation Establishes Charitable Fund With The Miami Foundation

PRESS RELEASE
-Fund will continue advancement of the Marlins’ charitable mission in Greater Miami-

The Marlins Foundation, the charitable arm of the Miami Marlins Major League Baseball franchise, has selected The Miami Foundation to manage its charitable fund. The Marlins Foundation leads the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mission of the team and funds programs that improve the lives of children through education, the arts and baseball. Since the approval of Marlins Park, the Marlins Foundation has invested over $5 million toward local nonprofits, school initiatives, scholarships, youth baseball programming and neighborhood organizations.

“As supporters of the Marlins Foundation’s efforts, we are intimately familiar with their community service and outreach work, making this partnership a natural evolution in our relationship,” said Javier Alberto Soto, president and CEO of The Miami Foundation. “Now, we can apply our expertise in stewarding charitable assets and our insight into Miami’s community needs to maximize the impact of the Marlins Foundation’s philanthropy.”

Last October, The Miami Foundation released the 2014 Our Miami Report, a biennial, data-focused, quality of life research study showing Miami’s most pressing community challenges and opportunities. The Miami Foundation will use those findings to assist The Marlins Foundation in identifying programs that align with the Marlins’ charitable mission and address the needs identified by the Our Miami Report.

The Marlins Foundation has a history of working with The Miami Foundation as a charitable partner. Most recently, the Marlins participated in Give Miami Day 2014, by serving as host site for the 24-hour fundraising event and sponsoring the $25,000 prize pool for participating charities. Give Miami Day 2014 raised a record $5.2 million for 520 nonprofits in Greater Miami.

“The Miami Foundation understands our commitment to philanthropy and service,” said David Samson, chairman of the Marlins Foundation. “Having The Miami Foundation manage our fund generates a unique collaboration that allows the Marlins to continue to invest in local charities as well as work effectively alongside other philanthropists to make an impact in the lives of our Miami neighbors.”

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NEWS: Victoria Rogers named Knight Foundation’s vice president for arts

PRESS RELEASE
(Originally posted here)

Victoria Rogers named Knight Foundation’s vice president for arts

MIAMI – March 8, 2015 – Arts leader Victoria Rogers will join the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation as its new vice president for arts on May 1. Rogers, the New World Symphony’s executive vice president, will succeed Dennis Scholl, who led the program from its 2009 launch to national prominence.
Dennis Scholl

Scholl, an entrepreneur with multiple business, philanthropic and arts interests, will continue to serve Knight Foundation as an adviser.

“Victoria is a strategic thinker and leader who played a critical role in the evolution of the New World Symphony. She’s the right leader for the next phase of the Knight arts program,” said Alberto Ibargüen, president, Knight Foundation. “We are immensely grateful to Dennis for the remarkably creative program he designed and developed.”

Knight Foundation’s national arts program takes a two-pronged approaching to fostering arts in communities where the Knight brothers owned newspapers. The program invests in key institutions, helping them to more deeply engage the public. In addition, Knight supports grassroots groups that have fresh and innovative ideas for the arts.

Knight has supported institutions ranging from the Pérez Art Museum Miami, the Barnes Foundation and Philadelphia Museum of Art to the Akron Art Museum, the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and the Detroit Institute of Arts. The Knight arts program has also earned a reputation for seeking out innovative ways to bring art to wide audiences, from support of the O, Miami poetry festival to more than 1,200 Random Acts of Culture around the United States. Knight recently funded a collaborative symphony project in Detroit, where residents will contribute to a work that reflects the city, composed by MIT Media Lab’s Tod Machover, to be premiered in November by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.

The arts program also created alliances with other foundations to form ArtPlace, a project of the National Endowment for the Arts, which uses art to create a sense of community in cities across the country, and helped to craft the recent “Grand Bargain” that preserved the Detroit Institute of Arts as the community’s cultural treasure and saved municipal pensions.

In addition, the Knight Arts Challenge, a community-wide contest for the best ideas for the arts, has expanded to five cities: Miami, Philadelphia, Detroit, St Paul and Akron. So far, the challenge has received more than 20,000 ideas. Today, Knight Foundation also announced $25 million to the South Florida arts, which includes support through 2018 for the South Florida Arts Challenge, which has sparked the growth of Miami’s arts scene.

“The opportunity to help create and grow the national arts program at Knight Foundation has been one of the highlights of my professional career,” Scholl said. “Under Alberto’s leadership, the program has taken great steps to make art general in Knight communities across the country. I am thrilled that Victoria has been chosen as my successor, and I know she will lead the program to the next level.”

In her nine years at New World Symphony, Rogers helped set the strategic plan for the orchestral academy that prepares graduates of distinguished music programs for leadership roles in orchestras and ensembles around the world. She orchestrated the successful $200 million capital campaign for the Frank Gehry-designed campus, one of the world’s most technologically advanced venues for concerts. Before joining New World Symphony, Rogers served as assistant vice president for central development at the University of Miami, where she was the architect of its billion-dollar capital campaign, Momentum.

“In cities both large and small, Knight Foundation has been a catalyst for change and informed risk taking. Through its programs it is helping to create more engaged communities. I don’t know any foundation that does a better job of fostering the arts, from individual artists, to grassroots organizations and large institutions,” said Rogers. “Knight is helping institutions break down the barriers to attendance and creating new audiences. Its support was instrumental to New World Symphony’s popular WALLCAST™ Concert Series. I’m thrilled to have a chance to extend and build on that work.”

At the same time, Knight Foundation announced $25 million in new funding for the arts in South Florida, bringing to $122 million the amount pledged in the past decade. University of Miami Frost School of Music, Pérez Museum of Art Miami, and Institute for Contemporary Art, Miami, are all recipients. In addition, Knight extended the successful Knight Arts Challenge for another three years in South Florida.

About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
Knight Foundation supports transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, advance media innovation, engage communities and foster the arts. We believe that democracy thrives when people and communities are informed and engaged. For more, visit knightfoundation.org.

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NEWS: Pérez Art Museum Miami Receives $5 Million Capital Gift from Knight Foundation to Endow New Projects by International Artists

PRESS RELEASE

Pérez Art Museum Miami Receives $5 Million Capital Gift from Knight Foundation to Endow New Projects by International Artists

New Gift Brings Museum’s Endowment to Over $20 Million

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) received a grant for $5 million from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation to endow newly-commissioned projects by international artists, and related community programming, as part of its Project Gallery series. This new gift brings PAMM’s capital campaign to a total of $206 million raised toward its $220 million campaign goal. This will bring the museum’s total endowment to more than $20 million.

Miami-Dade County’s flagship art museum, PAMM features four Project Galleries, unique spaces dedicated to showcasing a new project by a single artist. These artists visit Miami over the course of a year to interact with the community and learn about the city, and their work frequently responds to the museum’s architecture and site, as well as the broader Miami community and South Florida environment.

“Work presented in the Project Galleries advances PAMM’s mission to support the work of living artists and promote cultural engagement with communities in Miami and South Florida,” said Tobias Ostrander, PAMM chief curator and deputy director for curatorial affairs. “With this grant, we will be able to offer rich programming that will give the community an opportunity to share in the artists’ process.”

Knight’s gift is part of a new $25 million investment in the Miami arts, that also includes extending the Knight Arts Challenge, a community-wide contest funding the best ideas for the local arts, for three years.

“In short time, PAMM has exceeded attendance projections and has become an important community gathering place for Miamians,” said Dennis Scholl, vice president of arts for Knight Foundation. “We hope new funding will help bring residents closer to the artists who show in the Project Galleries and their work.”

Current Project Gallery presentations include works by: Nicole Cherubini (b. 1970, Boston), Mario Garcia Torres (b.1975, Monclova, Mexico), Gary Simmons (b. 1964, New York), and Diego Bianchi (b. 1969, Buenos Aires, Argentina). Upcoming projects include a project by Shana Lutker (b. 1978, Northport, New York), the third work in her series born from her research on Surrealist fistfights which will open on Thursday, May 7, 2015, with a performative lecture based on the work; and a project by Miami-based conceptual artist Nicolas Lobo (b. 1979, Los Angeles) encompassing a group of mixed-media sculptures, which the artist cast inside a swimming pool, opening Thursday, April 16, 2015 with an artist talk. For more information about these and other upcoming program, visit pamm.org/calendar.

About Pérez Art Museum Miami
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) promotes artistic expression and the exchange of ideas, advancing public knowledge and appreciation of art, architecture and design, and reflecting the diverse community of its pivotal geographic location at the crossroads of the Americas. A 29-year-old South Florida institution formerly known as Miami Art Museum (MAM), Pérez Art Museum Miami opened a new building, designed by world-renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron, in Downtown Miami’s Museum Park on December 4, 2013. The facility and is a state-of-the-art model for sustainable museum design and progressive programming and features 200,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor program space with flexible galleries; shaded outdoor verandas; a waterfront restaurant and bar; a museum shop; and an education center with a library, media lab and classroom spaces. For more information, please visit www.pamm.org, find us on Facebook (facebook.com/perezartmuseummiami), or follow us on Twitter (@pamm).

Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. Support is provided by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. Additional support is provided by the City of Miami and the Miami OMNI Community Redevelopment Agency (OMNI CRA). Pérez Art Museum Miami is an accessible facility. All contents ©Pérez Art Museum Miami. All rights reserved.

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Miami Beach: The Best 100 Years Photo Contest Deadline 3/27/15

“Miami Beach: The Best 100 Years” Photo Contest

Submission Link

In celebration of Miami Beach’s 100th anniversary, the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA) is inviting you to share your memories of Miami Beach over the past 100 years. Do you have photos of a building, park, street or other venue from years ago and then a photo of what it looks like today? Do you have an amazing photo of what Miami Beach looked like 60, 50, or 40 years ago? What’s a special place on the beach that never fails to fascinate you? Enter the MBVCA “The Best 100 Years” Facebook Photo Contest page and tell us why it signifies what you love about Miami Beach via an ORIGINAL PHOTO you’ve taken in the city!

GRAND PRIZES:
First place is a GoPro Hero4, valued at $499.99.
Second place is a mini iPad Air, valued at $399.
Third place is a Visa gift card for $200.

The contest begins on February 11th, 2015 and ends at 11:59pm on March 27th, 2015. Upload the photo to the MBVCA Facebook Contest page and email a hi-res version of the photo to photocontestmiamibeach@miamibeachvca.com. All photo must be original and taken in Miami Beach with captions relevant to the destination. The top ten photos with the most “Likes” will be semifinalists. Open to anyone 18-years-old or older as of February 11th, 2015. Only ten (10) entries may be submitted per email address/per person.

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Call for artist – ArtExpo New York March 9 due date April 20

Call for artist – ArtExpo New York
Monday, 03/09/2015 – 04/20/2015 12:00 pm – 12:00 pm
2000x2000Call for artist – ArtExpo New York
711 12th Ave,
New York, New York 10019-5399
Webpage Link
Cost:

BlinkGroup Gallery is looking for innovative visual artist to participate in our spring exhibition at Art Expo, Pier 94 – NYC “The Worlds Largest Fine Art Show” We are receiving Submissions from all artistic disciplines for this exhibition.

Submissions are due Mach 9, 2015

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Knight Arts Challenge South Florida 1/26/15 – 2/23/15

Knight Arts Challenge South Florida

14703-KF-KACM-Soul of Art_300x250Beginning Jan. 26, South Floridians can apply for the Knight Arts Challenge, which funds the best ideas for bringing the community together through the arts. The deadline for the challenge, a project of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, is Feb. 23. KnightArts.org

Knight Foundation will host a kickoff party at Gramps in Wynwood on Jan. 27, where applicants can meet other artists, past winners and Knight Foundation staff. In addition, as a way to recruit ideas from South Florida’s many neighborhoods, Knight Foundation will host a series of Community Q&A sessions. The events, taking place Feb. 2-5, will offer tips on creating a standout application, information on the challenge timeline and more. The schedule is below.

“Whether you are an arts organization or a small collective, a longtime South Florida artist or someone who moved to town recently, we want to hear from you,” said Dennis Scholl, vice president of arts for Knight Foundation. “Our goal is to make art general in South Florida. We do that through the challenge, and finding the best grassroots ideas for bringing our community together through the arts.”
Anyone can apply. All it takes is 150 words to fill out the initial application, which will be available at knightarts.org and is deliberately designed to be simple to encourage nontraditional applicants.

There are only three rules for the challenge:
1) The idea must be about the arts.
2) The project must take place in or benefit South Florida
3) The grant recipients must find funds to match Knight’s commitment.

Knight has received more than 8,900 ideas from the South Florida community since launching the challenge in 2008. In total, 241 projects have received almost $25 million in funding.

Since 2006, Knight Foundation has invested more than $86 million in South Florida’s cultural community. Those funds have launched a new media program that includes the signature “Wallcasts” at the acclaimed New World Symphony campus, helped present Ibero-American films at the Miami International Film Festival, and are bringing every Miami-Dade third-grader to the new Pérez Art Museum Miami, among other projects.  The approach is two-pronged: Knight Foundation aims to open up institutions to more South Floridians with large grants, while the Arts Challenge ensures that smaller, grassroots efforts fuel and refresh the arts scene.

The Knight Arts Challenge kickoff party takes place Tuesday, Jan. 27 at Gramps More Info
Click Here for the Community Q&As schedule

For updates, follow #knightarts on Twitter, @knightfdn on Instagram and Knight Foundation on Facebook.

knightarts

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News: Documentary Film “Right To Wynwood” Released

PRESS RELEASE

 

righttowynwood

MIAMI, FL – Nov. 3rd, 2014 – As part of the director’s collective effort to continue shedding light on the history behind Miami’s up-and-coming arts district, short film Right to Wynwood will now be available for online streaming to the general public. Winner for ‘Best Documentary’ at the 2013 Miami Short Film Festival, Right to Wynwood explores the causes and effects of gentrification, documenting how a Puerto Rican neighborhood became purposely unaffordable for its low-income residents and morphed into profitable opportunities of redevelopment for the money hungry.

After a series of interviews with developers, gallerists, artists, Puerto Rican residents and community leaders, producer Camila Álvarez and photographer Natalie Edgar carefully observed and documented the rapidly changing patterns of the community in Wynwood and saw the need to tell the story behind the so-called new Arts District in Miami, FL.

Although both Álvarez and Edgar are keen advocates of the opportunities that Wynwood brings to artists, they feel that creating awareness of how gentrification in Wynwood was developer–led instead of it being artist-led, as it happened in places like Soho in New York, or in Berlin, was necessary.

Even though street art started appearing in the neighborhood organically, when local art collective Primary Flight saw the opportunity to make Wynwood their playground, it soon became a marketing tool, when their efforts were co-opted by developers who realized that “including culture and arts in change was the best way to get the most bang for your buck,” as stated by David Lombardi, one of the first developers to start buying properties in the area, said Camila Álvarez, producer and co-director of the film.

The 21-minute documentary can be streamed online at: www.righttowynwood.com

For more information or press inquiries on Right to Wynwood: righttowynwood@gmail.com

The Library is Important to All of Us – An Open Letter from John Quick

This is an open letter to the community by John Quick, President of Friends of the Miami-Dade Libraries

Most of us were introduced to libraries as children by our teachers or parents a source for wonderful stories and information for school projects.

Over the years, public libraries were converted into community centers with meeting rooms, organized story time, academic tutoring and computer stations with free Internet connectivity, and computer literacy training for seniors. They also became a source for early literacy support for parents with small children, digital-media learning centers; free electronic books, audio books for the visually impaired and the disabled, door to door service for the infirmed, reading instruction for illiterate adults, and so much more.

But over the past few years, our libraries have been stripped of almost every public service. Operating hours have been cut and they are no longer open 7 days a week.
As a father of two young children, ages 4 and 2, I expected libraries to always be available for my kids and for future generations. I never realized we would have to fight to keep them open and available for future generations.

Libraries are not a relic of the past. They are critical to a vibrant, successful community with an educated workforce.

Please tell your Miami-Dade County Commissioner that libraries are central to the future of Miami-Dade County and let him or her know before the critical Thursday, September 18 County Commission meeting that will decide the future of our libraries.

Visit www.savemdpls.org to find out how you can make a difference.

Posted in News   

Highlight: Panorama Steel band Competition To Showcase The Rich Musical Heritage Of Trinidad and Tobago

Panorama Steel band Competition To Showcase The Rich Musical Heritage Of Trinidad and Tobago

Silver Stars USA Steel Orchestra Looks To Keep Coveted Title of Miami Broward Carnival Steel Band of The Year

panorama201310The scintillating and pulsating music of the steel pan has always played a significant role in the Miami Broward Carnival narrative. This year the Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee Inc.(MBOCHC) will present their Panorama Steel Band competition on Friday, October 10, 2014 at Central Broward Regional Park from 6pm to 11pm. Silver Stars USA Steel Orchestra is the reigning 2013 Band of the Year. This year, the list of bands competing for the title of Miami Broward Carnival Steel Band Of The Year includes: Silvers Stars USA Steel Orchestra, Pantastics Steel Band, Lauderhill Steel, Resurrection Sound, Karibbean Knights Steel Orchestra and Steel Away Steel Drum Ensemble. Panorama is a favorite of many pan-lovers who will enjoy the melodic, rhythmic and soothing sounds of a music art form that is the heartbeat of the Carnival culture. The National Instrument of Trinidad & Tobago is the Steel Drum and is the only new instrument invented in the 20th Century, Although a part of Carnival for many years, the first Panorama was not held in T&T until 1963. In Miami the steel bands were always a part of Carnival and bands travelled from Orlando and even from New York, to participate in Carnival. The MBOCHC is committed to preserving this rich Caribbean tradition within the blueprint of #MiamiBrowardCarnival.

panorama20135“Pan is to carnival like water is to fish; it’s a survival thing. As they say, it’s the last created musical instrument that brings pride and joy to a nation. Its like reggae to Jamaica, classical music to Europeans; it is deeply rooted in our culture and the world is better for it.” Sydney Roberts, Vice Chair for Miami Broward Carnival.

“The main focus of Silver Stars USA Steel Orchestra is to introduce the art of playing the steel drums to the youth of South Florida and to broaden the exposure of steel drums in the United States of America. We have been able to expose our repertoire at many functions, such as Mrs. Michelle Obama’s grass roots rally in Ft Lauderdale and we are proud of our Miami Broward Carnival Steel Band Of The Year for the past two years.” stated Errol Christian.

panorama20139Special thanks to the Miami Broward Carnival sponsors:

Corporate – Coca Cola, Clear Channel Media & Entertainment, 103.5 The Beat, Mega 94.9, Greater Miami Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Yellow Cab, Discovery Tours, LLC, The Check Cashing Store

Media – Caribbean American-Passport News Magazine, South Florida Caribbean News, Global 99.5FM, EventsRUsonline.com, Caribbean Connect, Weekends with the Breakfast Club, VibesUnite, SmallIslandMassive.com, Caribbean National Weekly, Red Eye

Public Sector – Broward County Florida, Miami-Dade County Fair Expo Center

The Miami Broward Carnival is made possible with the support of Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.

For more information about Miami Broward Carnival please visit www.miamibrowardcarnival.com or call 305-653-1877.

panorama20138
#MiamiBrowardPanorama2014
Follow on Social Media
Twitter – @MiaBroCarnival
Instagram – @MiaBroCarnival
Facebook

Miami Broward Carnival Signature Events for 2014

Friday, September 5, 2014 – J’Ouvert Launch – The Warehouse 3500 NW 15th Street, Lauderhill, FL 33311. Time:10pm-5:30a.m. Admission: $20
Sunday, October 5, 2014 – Jr. Carnival Parade of Bands – Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium – 3700 NW 11th Street, Lauderhill, FL 33311. 1pm-8pm (Parade starts at 2pm) Admission: $10 and $1.50 Park Fee
Friday, October 10, 2014 – Panorama Competition/Kings, Queens, Individuals – Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium – 3700 NW 11th Street, Lauderhill, FL, 33311. Time: 6pm-11pm. Admission: $10. $1.50 Park Fee
Saturday, October 11, 2014 – Official J’Ouvert – Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium – 3700 NW 11th Street, Lauderhill, FL 33311- Time:7am-2pm. Admission: Advance Tickets $15.00
Sunday, October 12, 2014 – Miami Broward Parade of Bands and Concert – 30 Years of Miami Carnival Celebration – Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds – 10901 Coral Way, Miami, FL 33165. Time: 11am-11pm. Admission: Advance Tickets $25 online at miamibrowardcarnival.com; $27 at The Check Cashing Stores and select Caribbean-American retail outlets.

miabrocarnival

This post is sponsored, please support the sponsors that make Soul Of Miami possible.

News: Kevin O’Leary of “Shark Tank” to Keynote TigerDirect Innovation: IT Conference and Expo on 11/7/14

PRESS RELEASE

Kevin O’Leary of “Shark Tank” to Keynote TigerDirect Innovation: IT Conference and Expo

11 Breakout Sessions Hosted by Top Industry Leaders at Premier B2B Sector Event

TigerDirect, a subsidiary of Systemax Inc. (NYSE:SYX), today announced that Kevin O’Leary – aka Mr. Wonderful from ABC’s hit TV show “Shark Tank” – will keynote the company’s TigerDirect Innovation: IT Conference and Expo presented by Lenovo, an exclusive business-to-business (B2B) sector symposium to be held during the Third Annual TigerDirect Tech Bash on November 7, 2014 at the new Marlins Park in Miami.

The entrepreneur, author and TV fixture that has been known to serve heaping doses of tough love with his sage advice will kick off the inaugural event, addressing small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) about how technology is key to leveling the playing field with big companies.

“I am proud to be a part of TigerDirect’s first-ever business innovation event and hope that my keynote, along with the lineup of exciting sessions, inspires attendees to rethink their approach to technology,” said O’Leary. “The cloud, digital payment ecosystems and other tech trends are turning small and medium businesses on their heads, and this event will help them keep pace with technological advances and provide the edge they need to stay ahead of the curve.”

“As a company that is successfully serving the IT needs of the SMB and public sector markets for more than 25 years now, it is our responsibility to stay ahead of tech trends, encourage our customers embrace next-generation solutions and services in order to grow, and bring together industry power players – such as Kevin O’Leary – to show them how it’s done,” said Steven Leeds, Director of Corporate Marketing at TigerDirect.

O’Leary will be joined by a range of top companies and subject matter experts that will lead a series of breakout sessions at the TigerDirect Innovation: IT Conference and Expo regarding the latest technology trends and solutions for the B2B space. In addition to the three pre-announced breakout sessions by title sponsor, Lenovo, the event will include eight additional sessions, covering such topics as:

“Cloud Computing- How it’s transforming IT and what this means for your business?” Find out how you can leverage the cloud to centralize your data and increase your business’s efficiency.
“IT and Education – What does the 21st Century Classroom really look like?” The 21st Century classroom will deliver powerful learning outcomes using a dynamic and technologically driven environment. See what makes it all possible and why it is so exciting.
“Data is everywhere – find out how to secure your data.” Data is stored across many places – both private and public. Learn how to secure that data from an increasing amount of IT threats against your business.
“How the new IT is transforming healthcare.” Technological and digital innovations are transforming the healthcare sector as we know it. Learn about those driving forces and more.
“Migrate from Windows XP and Sever 2000 to the next great platform.” It’s time to upgrade! Find out why upgrading is vital, and how it will benefit your business.
“Bring Your Own Device To Work? Discover how best practices for small and large businesses.” Learn how employees bringing in their own devices to work will transform the workplace and why businesses of varying sizes should implement this practice.
“The Data Center – What is the right Server, Storage, and Networking strategy for your business?” Data centers are complex and crucial infrastructure for today’s modern businesses. Learn how to create an effective data center that will keep up with your business’ demands.
“Borderless and wireless networking – Fast and secure.” Smartphones, tablets, and other mobile computing devices continue to grow in popularity among businesses for their powerful on-the-go capabilities. Understand how to integrate and manage these devices to become a more agile business.

For more on the event, please visit: www.tigertechbash.com/innovation/.

About TigerDirect:
For more than 25 years, TigerDirect.com has served the technology needs of both personal and business users, selling consumer electronics, computers, digital media technology and peripherals via business-to-business, Internet and catalog channels. Beyond its vast product offerings, TigerDirect has become a trusted partner to hundreds of thousands of SMB and public sector organizations by providing a suite of IT solutions and services. TigerDirect.com is a subsidiary of Systemax Inc.

About Systemax Inc.:
Systemax Inc. (www.systemax.com), a Fortune 1000 company, sells industrial and computer products through a system of branded e-Commerce websites, relationship marketers and retail stores in North America and Europe. The primary brands are Global Industrial, MISCO, Inmac Wstore and TigerDirect.

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Public Art Wednesday: Cultural Souls Art Fair

9950752.47

 

The Cultural Souls Art Fair will begin August 22 through August 31, daily from 6:00pm – 10:00pm. The Cultural Souls Art Fair will consist of gallery owners, artists, and art enthusiasts looking to mix, mingle and shop for international masterpieces. Check out artwork displayed at this event from three phenomenal Dominican visual artists Alberto Ulloa, Guillo Pérez and Candido Bido. This art fair will also showcase the Enrique Guzmán Gallery, which features work by Dominican artists Mariano Sánchez, Amin Abel Pérez, Alonso Cuevas, Melchor Terrero, Orlando Menicucci, and Elvis Avilés.

On Friday, August 22, the VIP opening reception will kick off at 6:00pm where attendees can look at the art being presented while sipping on cocktails. Admission to the opening night is free if you pre-register and at door tickets are $25. Doors will re-open Satuday the 23  to the public at 11:00am. Prices for the Cultural Souls Art Fair will be $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.

To purchase your tickets and for more information on this event follow this link. 

Do you know of any art fairs or festivals coming up in Miami? Let us know on Twitter at @Loop305 with the hash tag #PublicArtWednesday

 

 

-Samantha Wagner

Talk About it Tuesday: Protest Leads to Eight Arrests

Activists Protest Recent Police Violence Against Minority Youth Across US

This past Thursday eight protestors were arrested in Miami during a demonstration against the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri and against the death of local teenager Israel Hernandez in 2013. Both killed were only 18 years of age and both were unarmed. Phil Agnew, who organized the protest stated that the death of both of these young men shows, “proof that racist police departments around the country will continue to use black and brown bodies for target practice.”

The protestors organized by Phil Agnew call themselves the Dream Defenders. Last Thursday they protested in the lobby of Miami’s federal justice building. They raised their arms in silence hoping to get a meeting with U.S. Attorney Wifredo Ferrer, who works with the Southern District of Florida.

Eight protesters refused to leave the building when Police asked them to exit, as the building was about to close for the day. Those eight were arrested and put in plastic handcuffs. Marcia Olivo, one of those arrested, stated, “We’re the voice of the mothers in our community who live in constant fear of not seeing their children come back.” Another protestor arrested, Curtis Hierro stated, “We need more and more folks to take this type of action and make it very clear that we need action on the part of our elected leadership and the folks in the Department of Justice.”

As Miami residents how do you feel about the eight protestors being arrested? What do you think needs to be done to prevent more deaths like this from happening? Tweet us at @Loop305 with the hash tag #TalkAboutitTuesday

 

-Samantha Wagner

News: Miami Downtown Arts District Association

Miami Downtown Arts District Association

Lee Ann Lester, Director of Next Level Fairs and Sean McCormick, McCormick Place Miami announce the formation of the Miami Downtown Arts District (MDAD.) McCormick will serve as Chairman of the Board & Lester as Vice President.

MDAD is a non-profit organization that serves cultural institutions and museums; galleries, local artists and studios; as well as businesses, event venues, and restaurants that showcase both local and international artists. MDAD aims to unify the Downtown & Brickell Arts District by providing a variety of programs that allow the community to explore the arts district, such as First Friday Downtown Art Night, or provide exposure to smaller independent events through a variety of membership support services.

“MDAD will work in unison with community leaders and the DDA’s [Miami Downtown Development Authority] initiatives to develop Downtown Miami as the cultural and business epicenter of the Americas,” commented Lester. “Already over a billion dollars have been invested in arts and cultural institutions in the District drawing new culturally-minded, international visitors. Our goal is to provide artists, gallerists and the public with dynamic art venues, regular art programs and education to the greater Miami metro area.”

A growing number of organizations have already extended their support including Katy Stallfus from Artisan Lounge and James Echols of Life is Art, both MDAD Boardmembers, as well as MDC Museum of Art + Design at the Freedom Tower, Artisan Lounge, Dimensions Variable, Stephen Gamson Studios, SeaFair, McCormick Place Miami, CU-1 Gallery, AIA Miami, Florida Grand Opera, Life is Art and The Art Experiences.

The Association will hold a VIP Kick-Off event and Press Conference at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 19, 2014 at McCormick Place Downtown Miami, 111 SW 3rd St., Miami, FL 33130. The MDAD Association will announce its Board Members and guests will have an opportunity to know more about District events as part of DWNTWN Art Days, September 19-21, 2014 as well as future First Friday Downtown Art Night. The evening will include live performances, art installations, and more. A complimentary transportation service will be provided by FreeBee to participating arts venues.

For more information about Miami Downtown Arts District, visit the Facebook Page, or contact Sean McCormick at 305.206.4734 or sjm@mccormickplace-miami.com.

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News: Related Group hosts 3 groundbreakings and 1 property launch

PRESS RELEASE
City Officials Joined The Related Group to Celebrate a Day of Milestones:
The launch of Paraiso Bayviews by Karim Rashid, and the start of construction at Paraiso Bay and Brickell Heights

The Related Group celebrated three milestones last week with groundbreakings at Brickell Heights and Paraiso Bay followed by the launch of their latest project, Paraiso Bayviews with Karim Rashid. Hundreds of VIP brokers attended the day’s events across Miami, and those involved in preconstruction sales took home more than $9 million in commission checks.

Mayor Tomas Regalado and Commissioner Marc Sarnoff, who were present at the two groundbreakings, congratulated The Related Group’s team on the new projects, which they noted are creating a 24-hour urban core in the Brickell area, and reenergizing the Edgewater neighborhood.

At Brickell Heights, located next to the two-million-square-foot development Brickell CityCentre, David Rockwell has created a sleek glass-walled lobby, glamorous amenity spaces with a private-club vibe, and lavish pool terraces. The 690 luxury residences will sit atop a 30,000-square-foot Equinox Fitness Center and SoulCycle, a state-of-the-art workout studio that will open its first Miami location at Brickell Heights.

At the launch of Paraiso Bayviews, international interior and industrial designer Karim Rashid was on hand to greet the guests. For his second project with The Related Group, Rashid has evolved his trademark colors and bold shapes for a more subdued organic design with softer hues and natural woods inspired in the Paraiso community’s garden bay front setting. Residents of Bayviews, described as the best value within the Paraiso community, will enjoy all of Paraiso’s luxury amenities including a rooftop swimming pool, tennis courts, a beach club, marina, gardens by Enzo Enea, a signature restaurant by Michael Schwartz, and more.

The Paraiso Bay property, set between Biscayne Boulevard and the Bay at NE 31st Street, is East Edgewater’s only master planned community. Celebrities who have already reserved homes there include DJ and music producer David Guetta, basketball star Manu Ginobili, and Spanish tennis legend Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario.

Notable Guests: Karim Rashid, Designer of interiors for Paraiso Bayviews, Celebrity Chef Michael Schwartz, Mayor Thomas Regalado, Commissioner Marc Sarnoff, Carlos Rosso, President of the Condo Division at The Related Group, Sonia Figueroa, Senior Vice President The Related Group, Arden Karson, Senior Vice President The Related Group acquisitions

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Farewell Henry Stone and Thanks for All the Funk

A note from the Publisher:

For the past 10 years, most of my time in Miami, I have had both the honor and the pleasure of working for an amazing music man, Henry Stone, owner of, amongst many others, TK Records. When I joined the company, he was in his early 80’s, having gone blind a few years earlier. My job was to help them aggregate and digitize the historic releases from his labels from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and up into the 80s. We also created new releases, about a half dozen new albums, all while he was closing in on the century mark.

In my opinion, no one has had such a profound impact on the music scene in Miami. He also had a significant impact on the music across the country, both as a hit-making distributor, and a pioneering label owner. Over the course of 60+ years, his labels released many thousands of tracks recorded right here in the Magic City. His labels contributed more to the distribution of that Caribbean Miami sound than any other, especially in the early days, and had an influence on music world-wide. He was a key influencer in R&B, Funk, Soul, and, of course, Disco.

Despite his success, he never parlayed that into being a mega-rich oligarch. He never moved off to LA or New York. He stayed right here in Miami, bringing that sound to the world. He shared that wealth and gave so many people a chance that otherwise would not have had it.

I never knew him in his heyday, but I did know his music. I grew up on that music. However, knowing him for the last 10 years of his life was very rewarding. I got to hear his stories, stories of the history of the music, over and over, until I could recite many of them better than he. I learned about the music business, and most importantly its history, direct from the source. He lived through the height of the 45, through the dominance of the album, to the debut of the CD and on into the time of digital downloads. He really saw it all. Very few people had his perspective, and he was on top of it right up to the end.

He passed away August 7, 2014, quietly. He never lost his sharp mind or wit, which was amazing. He was a great man, and all Miamians, all music lovers, owe him gratitude for all of the fantastic musicians he produced out of our city. Music would not be what it is today without his influence. It was unfortunate he did not live to see the completion of his biographical movie, but it will be released in a few months, and we are very excited about honoring his work and his life.

I am very glad to have known him. He taught me more than just about the music business, he taught me about being a good human and businessperson. His skill at working with people was second to none. Many were the times I saw him take a negative situation and turn it positive. He was generous almost to a fault and many the times I joked that he was too nice to be in the music business, but, of course, I was wrong. He really did inject so much funk and soul into this world, and for that, I am eternally thankful.

Thank you to the Miami New Times, Miami Herald and another Miami Herald for these wonderful obituary articles honoring the life of this man who made his way up from being an orphan in the Bronx to being a pillar in the music business and the community.

Below is the official press release and coming soon is the Henry Stone documentary movie, Rock Your Baby.

– James Echols
Co-Founder and Publisher, Soul Of Miami

(PS: A small sidenote: the name of this site, Soul Of Miami, was inspired by my working at Henry Stone Music and feeling all Miami Soul music.)

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
Henry Stone was born June 3, 1921, in Bronx, New York to parents Leah Goldstein and Charles Epstein. He was raised in Washington Heights, NY. Henry passed away August 7, 2014. Henry was preceded in death by his parents, brother Allen and sister Rosamond.

Henry began playing the trumpet in his early teens while at an orphanage in Pleasanteville, NY. Henry joined the US Army in 1943, playing in a racially integrated band. Henry served in the US Army stationed at Fort Dix in New Brunswick, NJ and was discharged in 1947. He then moved to Los Angeles working on sales and promotion for early record labels.

In 1948, Henry settled in Miami, Florida, setting up his own distribution company, Seminole, and shortly afterwards the Crystal recording studio. In 1951 he recorded Ray Charles’ “St. Pete Florida Blues”, among others. In 1952 he started two record labels Rockin for blues and Glory for Gospel. In association with King Records, Stone released The Charms’ “Heart of Stone” on King’s De Luxe Records, and it became R&B chart #1 in 1954. He was instrumental in signing James Brown to King and in recording Brown’s first hit, “Please, Please, Please”.

In 1955, he established his own independent publishing companies and several record labels, including Chart and Dade, mainly recording local blues artists. In 1960, Stone cut “(Do The) Mashed Potatoes” by
“Nat Kendrick and the Swans”- actually James Brown’s backing band – for the Dade label. He also set up Tone Distribution, which became one of the most successful record distribution companies, working with Atlantic, Mowtown, Stax and many more independent labels. Stone’s distribution expertise was instrumental in spreading the music produced by those labels around the world.

While he focused on the distribution business, Stone also continued to record R&B artists. These included Betty Wright, whose “Clean UP Woman” was a major hit in 1971. Stone also set up the Glades Label, recording the million selling “Why Can’t We Live Together” by Timmy Thomas.

In 1972, Stone decided to concentrate on recording and manufacturing his own records, forming another new record company, TK Records with Steve Alaimo, based in Hialeah, Florida. In 1973, two of Stones warehouse employees, Harry Wayne “KC” Casey and Rick Finch, began collaborating on writing and performing songs. As KC and the Sunshine Band, they released a string of hits such as “Get Down Tonight, “That’s The Way I Like It” and “Shake Your Booty”, all on Stone’s TK label. At the same time, Casey and Finch wrote and produced the number one “Rock Your Baby” which was performed by George McCrae.

Stone’s companies produced numerous other hits during the 1970’s, including Beginning of the End’s “Funky Nassau”, Latimore’s “Let’s Straighten It Out”, Anita Wards “Ring My Bell”, Little Beaver’s “Party Down”, and Gwen McCrea’s “Rockin’ Chair”, Peter Brown’s “Do You Want to Get Funky With Me” and Bobby Calwell’s “What Won’t You Do For Love”.

Stone later became involved with Hot Productions in the reissue of classics on CD and recently continued reissuing R&B and dance tracks on his own label, The Legendary Henry Stone Presents… In 2004, Henry Stone was awarded the first ever Pioneer Award for the Dance Music Hall of Fame, which was presented in New York City where he received a standing ovation.

In 2006, Henry became involved with The Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and started a music production program, the first of its kind, to provide professional training to the blind and visually impaired young performers, composers and sound engineers. In 2007, the new Gloria Martin third floor wing opened which houses the Henry and Inez Stone Music and Sound Studio.

Henry is survived by his wife Inez Stone; his daughter Lynda Stone and husband Ned Berndt; daughter Sheri and husband Ken Watson; daughter Crystal and Bill McCall; daughter Kim Stone; and son David Stone; their grandchildren Lysa Stone, Beth Stone, Shon and Carolyn (Keelin and Ryan) Christi, Mac and Stephanie (on the way), Daniel and Jamie Osiason.

He is also survived by his son Joseph Stone and his children, Brenna, Skyler, Torrin and Darcee; and by his daughter Donna and husband Evan Wolfe and their son Jake, and Inez’s brother Harrison Keith Pinchot, MD who will always be greatfull for Henry’s generosity for putting him through medical school.

Our family would like to thank all those who provided love and support during these difficult times.

Posted in News   

Talk About it Tuesday: Petition against Walmart on Endangered Pine Rockland

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A few weeks ago the news broke that the University of Miami sold endangered pine rockland forest to a Palm Beach Gardens-based developer.  The developers planned to build a Walmart.  Leslye Jacobs, former student of the University of Miami was outraged and decided to make a petition against this called MoveOn.org.

Developers have vowed to set 40 acres out of the 88 purchased aside for a preserve, but that isn’t enough for the people of Miami.  An online petition created by activist Chris Wolverton called, thepetitionsite.com has almost 35,000 signatures fighting against the new developemental plans.  Leslye’s petition has already attracted 8,000 signatures as well.  Lesyle plans to present the petition to the Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez along with Gov. Rick Scott.

As residents of Miami, how do you feel about the plans for the development of the land?  Do you think it should all be protected or are you okay with the new plans to develop? Let us know on twitter, Tweet us at @Loop305 with the #TalkAboutitTuesday

 

-Samantha Wagner

News: University of Miami Selects New Director for the Lowe Art Museum

University of Miami Selects New Director for the Lowe Art Museum

Jill Deupi HeadshotThe University of Miami has appointed Dr. Jill Deupi, who currently serves as director and chief curator of University Museums at Fairfield University, as the new director of the Lowe Art Museum.

“I am honored to have been selected to lead the Lowe Art Museum as it embarks on an exciting new chapter in its rich and storied history,” Deupi said. “The museum is perfectly poised to catapult itself to the next level, building upon its tremendous resources and past successes while embracing 21st century museum practice, contemporary art and culture, and new education modalities – above all, participatory learning.”

Deupi credits the Lowe’s solid foundation and Miami’s effervescent arts scene for her decision to join UM, beginning August 11. One of her goals for the museum is “to connect its remarkable collections to the contemporary art world and current cultural trends.” She hopes to accomplish this partly with enhanced public accessibility to the Lowe’s holdings via an online, user-friendly database.

“We selected Dr. Jill Deupi as the new director of the Lowe after an extensive search,” said UM College of Arts & Sciences Dean Leonidas Bachas. “Her distinguished museum experience and academic background in art and art history, as well as her enthusiasm to involve our students in experiential learning are a perfect combination for the Lowe to expand its reach as a didactic resource for the university and local community.”

In addition to her leadership roles at the University Museums at Fairfield University, Deupi has also served as an assistant professor of art history since 2008. Under Deupi’s leadership as founding director, the Bellarmine Museum of Art has welcomed thousands of visitors since it opened to the public in late 2010. Deupi has curated close to 20 temporary exhibitions at the Bellarmine and at Fairfield’s Thomas J. Walsh Art Gallery, which she has also directed since 2013.

Opened in 1952, the University of Miami’s Lowe Art Museum is Miami-Dade County’s oldest and only comprehensive visual arts institution, featuring the region’s most diverse collection of world art. The Lowe’s distinguished permanent collection spans 5,000 years of western and non-western art history, highlights of which can be seen in the museum’s nine galleries. Brian Dursum, director of the Lowe Art Museum since 1990, announced his retirement in September 2013.

Part of the UM College of Arts & Sciences, the Lowe also mounts distinguished temporary exhibitions throughout the year, accompanied by an array of complementary programming. With its mission to serve the University of Miami, greater South Florida communities and national and international visitors as a teaching and exhibiting resource, the Lowe Art Museum presents a unique art experience, with broad-based collections and one-of-a-kind works of art.

A fellow of the American Academy in Rome, Deupi wrote her doctoral dissertation on art and cultural politics in 18th century Naples. Her prior museum experience includes work at the Royal Academy of Arts, London; the Art Institute of Chicago, the Snite Museum of Art, University of Notre Dame, Indiana; the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.; and the Wallace Collection, London. Although her area of scholarly expertise is 18th century European art, neoclassicism, and museology, Deupi possesses an impressive breadth of art historical knowledge: she has curated exhibitions devoted to 20th and 21st century photography; mid-century American painting; contemporary sculpture; ancient Chinese funerary sculpture; 20th century portraiture; and 20th century Venetian glass (among others).

Highlights from Deupi’s programming achievements include the establishment of a distinguished lecture series in the visual arts, funded by the Robert Lehman Foundation; the implementation of a successful Family Day program at the Bellarmine Museum; and the development of a broad range of programming in arts education and engagement, including a cultural tours abroad program. She also worked tirelessly to secure significant external support from a range of donors, corporate sponsors, and foundations.

Deupi received her B.A. from Mount Holyoke College and her J.D. from American University’s Washington College of Law, graduating summa cum laude. She holds both an M.A. and a Ph.D. in art history from the University of London’s Birkbeck College and the University of Virginia, respectively. She serves as a board member of the Association of Academic Museums and Galleries (AAMG) and co-chair of the New England Museums Association (NEMA)’s Academic Professional Affinity Group. She also sits on the steering committee of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County’s Executive Directors Network and is a member of the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), the Association of Art Museum Curators (AAMC), the College Art Association (CAA), and the International Council of Museums (ICOM). Deupi has juried a number of art competitions and exhibitions and has served as an external reviewer for the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). She is the author of numerous exhibition publications, as well as the author of “The Antique Legacy from the Middle Ages to the Enlightenment” (A Companion to Greek Art, Blackwell Publishing, 2012).

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Soul Of Miami Welcomes the Public Allies Miami Community Forum

publicalliescatalystamericorpSoul Of Miami proudly presents the Public Allies Miami Community Forum, in partnership with Public Allies Miami. Through this, the participants of Public Allies Miami will tell their stories, the stories of the organizations with which they work, the neighborhoods in which they work, and the stories of our community. You will get to see Miami through the eyes of its young, emerging leaders and philanthropists. It may be prose, photographs, poetry or something else entirely, but it is all part of the real soul of Miami!

Public Allies Miami is young adults who serve in nonprofit organizations to help make Miami thrive for all people. Each year, 20 young leaders devote ten months to an intensive leadership experience in diverse nonprofits. Here are their service stories. For more information about Public Allies Miami, visit catalystmiami.org.

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News: TiramesU Restaurant is closing on Lincoln Road

PRESS RELEASE

After 17 Years On Lincoln Road, Tiramesu Restaurant Moves Back To Its Origins
With Lincoln Road’s evolving landscape, the restaurant will soon re-open its doors South of Fifth

Miami, FL – April 22, 2014 – The ever-popular TiramesU, the landmark family-style restaurant on South Beach’s Lincoln Road, having just celebrated its 25th-year anniversary, will temporarily close its doors on Sunday, April 27th, 2014.

After 17 years on bustling Lincoln Road, co-owner Graziano Sbroggio decided to move the restaurant to its origins, where it all began 25 years ago.

TiramesU will reopen its doors at the new location at 101 Washington Avenue after the summer. “South of Fifth is a growing dining destination and I’m very excited to be in the same neighborhood of many successful and internationally renowned restaurants,” says Graziano Sbroggio.

The new restaurant will continue its tradition, combining simplicity, consistency of food, service and accessibility which has proved to be a winning formula with both locals and tourists over the past 25 years. “The new TiramesU will welcome its patrons with the same warm and friendly atmosphere, offering classic Italian cuisine with a modern twist,” adds Sbroggio.

27-year old Executive Chef Fabrizio Pintus is already working on a new menu, one that will not sacrifice the staples TiramesU is known and appreciated for, like the homemade pastas. He will take the summer to travel to different cities and expose himself to other cuisines and flavors. “I love exploring new recipes and the use of different ingredients with unexpected combinations. The idea is to experiment new dishes while remaining grounded in solid traditions. The new Tiramesu will offer inventive modern Italian flavors with simple yet refined plates that entice the palate and delight our patrons. I’d like for TiramesU to become your “homey” kitchen away from home,” says Chef Fabrizio.

Valeria Longoni, General Manager, will become a co-owner in the new restaurant. Her dedication is invaluable and she is proud and honored to continue as an integral part of TiramesU’s history in this challenging new project. “I firmly believe in the importance of working with a strong team of dedicated and professional people. Good food served with thoughtful care and consistent passion has been the key to our success,” adds Longoni.

The official last day of TiramesU on Lincoln Road will be Sunday, April 27th, 2014.

About TiramesU
TiramesU opened its doors to customers in 1988 on the corner of Ocean Drive and 5th Avenue. It experienced early success and in 1997 was relocated to 721 Lincoln Road. It is owned and managed by Graspa Group, headed by Graziano Sbroggio, which includes Spris, Segafredo, Salumeria 104, Spris Artisan Pizza Downtown and Spris Artisan Pizza Midtown. For more information, please visit www.tiramesu.com.

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SeaFair Miami Cruises

soulofmiamifeatured

SeaFair Miami Cruises

seafairDaily excursions Tuesdays through Sundays
Open to the public at dock
100 Chopin Plaza
Bayfront Park South Dock
Downtown Miami, FL

Ticket prices vary: Make Reservations Online Tell them Soul Of Miami sent you!

Sunset and City Lights Cruises
It is no secret, Miami truly comes alive after dark, and our City Lights Cruise is the quintessential Miami experience.
Friday and Saturday nights, 9PM to 11PM
Gourmet buffet or ala carte menu available. Visit website for pricing and details.

Brunch and Bay Cruises
What better way to top off the perfect Miami weekend or holiday than with a sun soaked cruise, shopping and gourmet buffet brunch aboard a luxury megayacht?
Saturday and Sunday, Embark: 10:30 AM, Cruise: 11AM-2:30PM, Disembark: 3 PM, (2 Brunch seatings, 11-12:30 and 1-2:30)
Gourmet buffet brunch or ala carte menu available. Visit website for pricing and details.

Afternoon Bay Cruise
Sunday from 4 pm to 6 pm.
Cocktails will be served at three bars and a tapas menu is available on the Sky Deck. Visit website for pricing and details.

Seafair Miami Dockside
For the land lover, SeaFair Miami offers dockside hours at Chopin Plaza.
Tues – Fri: 5-7pm & 11pm-midnight | Sat: 3-7pm & 11pm-midnight | Sun: 3-6pm
SeaFair is docked at Bayfront Park’s South Dock at Chopin Plaza next to the InterContinental Hotel in downtown Miami. Ample public parking is available within walking distance as well as free people mover access.

Cruise the crystal waters of Biscayne Bay on the $40 million MegaYacht for Dinner, Brunch, Holiday Celebrations, or just a lovely tour of the city lights.

SeaFair Art Galleries and Shoppes: While cruising browse the unique offerings of 20 art galleries and luxury boutiques. Local and internationally renowned artists, receptions, art performances and more. All on the MegaYacht Grand Luxe SeaFair.

Celebrate Miami: What better way to enjoy the Miami sunset than with cocktails on the Sky Deck followed by a gourmet dinner after dark watching the City Lights in the VIP restaurant? Enjoy family celebrations for Saturday and Sunday brunch on Miami’s only MegaYacht.

SeaFair offers a Miami experience like no other combining the best of intracoastal cruising, unique boutiques, and sophisticated dining. It is a truly memorable once in a lifetime experience for visitors and the ultimate venue for special occasions.

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SeaFair is the world’s first mobile megayacht venue and one of the ten largest privately owned yachts in the United States. The $40 million custom-built yacht was designed by internationally acclaimed yacht designer Luiz De Basto. At 228 feet and 2,800 international tons, it is the largest ship built for commercial operation on the Intracoastal Waterway and requires a draft of only 6.5 feet allowing it to dock at small yacht facilities in central city locations such as Chopin Plaza.

The well-appointed luxury venue features an impressive formal marble entryway, 28 individual exhibit spaces, a coffee bar, the Luxe Lounge, an open-air champagne and tapas bar on the aft deck, Sapore’, a formal glass-walled restaurant/club on Deck 3, Bistro360, an informal open-air restaurant and Bar360, a sky deck cocktail reception area.

Cruise, shop and dine aboard the uber-luxe 228-foot megayacht, SeaFair, offering the ultimate excursions where sea and sky converge with the glamour of iconic Miami.

seafairbanner1Enjoy four passenger decks with open-air sky deck dining, an elegant glass-walled club lounge, champagne and caviar bar and three decks of unique shops and galleries offering luxury must-haves including art, fine jewelry, designer trunk shows and more. International cuisine, tapas, fine wines and Champagne combined with live music ranging from jazz to island rhythms tops off this truly unique Miami experience.

webcitygirls// Contest for a New #MiamiPinkGirl

webcitygirls// looking for #MiamiPinkGirl, are you her?

Contest Evite English-07Are you an enthusiastic young lady? Do you dream of interviewing stars on the red carpet? Do you have what it takes to entertain a social media community with a positive point of view? webcitygirls// is seeking a friendly high-spirited team player who can engage the audience with a spunky attitude that stands out. The Miami Pink Girl has to be a social butterfly with an energetic spirit and a lot to say! The winner will become part of webcitygirls// social media innovative team and will be trained as a social media reporter, will live fun experience of getting dressed by a super star fashion designer, make-up by celebrity stylist and dreams will come true for her as she embarks on her first time red carpet coverage at a major 2014 award show with Lynn Ponder, founder of webcitygirls//.

To find the perfect pink girl, webcitygirls// has launched a competition via Instagram to see who conveys the personality and philosophy of the webcitygirls//. Miami Contest will be open on April 7 – May 7, 2014.
HOW TO ENTER:
1- Participants must create a 15 second Instagram video dressed in the webcitygirls// signature style: pink wig and chic black outfit. They must act as if interviewing a famous celebrity on the red carpet and have the confidence of a most influential social media reporter. The video post must be made using the participant’s own Instagram account using hashtag #MiamiPinkGirl and tag @webcitygirls.

2- Participants must email social@webcitygirls.com with the following: Instagram link to the video entry, a profile picture, a biography including education, experience, groups, community work, accolades/achievements, hobbies and social media preferences. We want to get to know the pink girl, her colorful personality, her style, and who she is! Participants must also follow @webcitygirls on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

3- On May 14, 2014, (3) finalists will be announced on webcitygirls.com. The finalists will be a part of a special edition #SocialSalon live stream on May 21, 2014 where webcitygirls// and (3) judges (a renowned fashion designer, a celebrity hairstylist, and an award winning entertainment journalist) will pronounce one grand prize winner! Click here for Rules.

4- The winner will get a surprise smart gadget to use on her new journey as a webcitygirls// #MiamiPinkGirl.

Be a part of this exciting opportunity and learn what it’s like to be in the media industry. Put on a pink wig, an attitude that sparkles, and if you have to, use a hairbrush for a mic! GO get CREATIVE wepa!
Webcitygirls// is looking for the ultimate pink girl, are you her?

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Win a Trip to Broadway with the Ultimate Broadway Fan Showdown

NewYork.com, an online resource for travel, entertainment, dining, real estate and job needs, has launched the Ultimate Broadway Fan Contest, which will award a passionate Broadway enthusiast and a guest with a memorable New York weekend getaway and VIP perks.

The winner and a guest will receive roundtrip airfare to the Big Apple, be chauffeured into town in style with ExecuCar, and put up for two nights in the heart of all of the Broadway action at the Crowne Plaza Times Square Hotel. They’ll also receive a quintessential NYC dinner at NYY Steak and best of all, they’ll get behind the scenes access to one of the biggest events on Broadway, with an exclusive invitation to the Tony Awards rehearsal.

How to enter:
1. Post a photo on Instagram or Twitter that proves that they are the ultimate Broadway fan
2. Complete this sentence in their caption “I’m Broadway’s biggest fan because…”
3. Include the hashtag #BringMeToBroadway
4. Submit the link to their photo and information by April 30 at 5pm EST to NewYork.com/ultimatefancontest

Criteria: Participants must use their camera to capture their passion for Broadway Theater any way they want. The entry could be a photo of themselves with their impressive Playbill collection or a snapshot with their favorite Broadway actor. They could dress up like their celebrity crush or mock up an award-worthy poster for their favorite performance – the sky is the limit!

How will the winner be determined? The editors of NewYork.com will review all submissions and narrow the list down to 30 finalists. Starting on Monday, May 5 at 9am EST and running until Friday, May 16 at 5pm EST they will ask the NewYork.com audience, to vote for the winner. The image with the most votes on Friday, May 16 at 5pm EST will win. The winner will be announced on Monday, May 19.

Participants must be 18 years or older and live in the continental United States. One entry per person. For more information, the official rules of entry can be found at this link: www.newyork.com/contest-rules

Posted in News   

News: Ultra Statement

PRESS RELEASE

Today, Miami Commissioner Marc Sarnoff and Mayor Tomás Regalado withdrew their Resolution to ban the Ultra Music Festival from Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami. Following that withdrawal, the City Commission has alternatively scheduled the issue for general discussion on April 24, 2014 at 10AM.

The overwhelming and unyielding support of the Greater Miami and Beaches Hotel Association, Downtown Miami businesses and residents, and of Ultra fans around the world has resulted in a short-term victory by event organizers in its recent bout to keep Ultra at Bayfront Park, in Downtown Miami.

Since its launch in 1999, Ultra Music Festival has attracted millions of visitors to the City of Miami. The annual event has brought considerable economic impact to the City of Miami and surrounding communities, which includes generating over $223 million in 2013 alone. Last year, the 6-day event created over 1,800 direct jobs.

Event organizers remain thankful for the infinite support of their patrons and partners in Miami and across the world. Ultra remains committed to working actively with the City of Miami, its Police, Fire and Risk Departments, and the Bayfront Park Management Trust to continually make the event safe, secure and successful.

Ultra will continue to put forth its positive message and request that its supporters remain committed to helping again on April 24th when Ultra will be discussed by the Miami City Commission.

About Ultra Worldwide
ULTRA WORLDWIDE is the global brand of the World’s Premier Electronic Music event ULTRA MUSIC FESTIVAL. An internationally renowned event that has taken place every March since its inception in 1999, Ultra Music Festival celebrated its 16th anniversary March 28-30, 2014 by bringing over 165,000 music enthusiasts to the sold out event in the City of Miami. Boasting the hottest names and the finest talent to be found anywhere on the planet, Ultra Worldwide is now the most international festival brand in the world by far, as it continues to transport the unrivaled experience from its Miami flagship event to an ever-growing number of destinations and fans all over the globe. Add in their pioneering live stream, ‘Ultra Live’ and Ultra Worldwide is able to bring the festival experience online to over 15 million unique viewers globally. Over the past 16 years, literally thousands of the world’s most iconic DJs, producers and live acts have mesmerized audiences with awe-inspiring sets at Ultra events in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Croatia, Ibiza, Korea and of course Miami. Each and every new global edition has been founded on the same successful formula that has been perfected over 16 years in Miami, combining the most diverse electronic talent with the most technologically advanced, large scale festival productions in the world. In 2014, Ultra continues to push the boundaries, bringing its unparalleled combination of cutting edge production and the world’s best electronic acts back to its previous strongholds and to new frontiers across the globe. With brand new editions in South Africa and Japan this year already, 2014 will see Ultra in nine countries and five continents across the globe.

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Miami New Times Best of Miami(R) Nominations 4/10/14-4/30/14

Miami New Times Best of Miami(R) Nominations
BOM14-LogoApril 10 – April 30, 2014
Nominate Online
More Information

From April 10 to 30, Nominate Your Favorite Places and Things to Do in Miami

New Times’ 27th-annual Best of Miami® issue celebrates the best of absolutely everything the area has to offer. Best of Miami® is the most comprehensive guide to the top people, places, goods and services, dining, nightlife, and entertainment found only in this region. With hundreds of pages of information, more than 400 choices, and a readership in the millions, it is the most anticipated issue of the year. Best Of reaches millions of people in the most valued issue of the year.

Each year our Best Of issue has a signature theme. We are proud to announce that in 2014, it’s “Game On!” – a throwback to retro gaming and culture.

Nominate the best things to do, see, and eat in Miami by casting your vote. You can suggest your favorites from Thursday, April 10, to Wednesday, April 30. Readers will have the opportunity to vote in scores of categories. On Monday, May 5, voting will open again for its final round, where readers can pick from the selected nominees to be crowned Best of Miami® winners.

Best of Miami® will be published Thursday, June 19, with the full list of Readers’ Choice winners, along with editorial picks. It will be available on newsstands throughout the area and online at MiamiNewTimes.com as well as our Best Of mobile app.

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Lincoln, AIA Explore Similarities Between Luxury Auto Design and High-end Architecture

>Designers of luxury automobiles and architects of upscale buildings both need to create appealing, intimate and exclusive experiences for high-end clients in a functional environment

>Sophisticated, elegant design that is comfortable and efficient drives the creative process for both disciplines

>Each maximizes space while achieving a perfect balance of color and light complemented by rich materials to stimulate the senses

MIAMI, Feb. 27, 2014 – The goal of luxury automobile designers is to create a sense of occasion each time the highly discerning driver gets behind the wheel.

Architects of high-end buildings are challenged to achieve the same goal. Each discipline incorporates proportion, volume, sculpture, form, materials, graphics and space to provide unique luxury experiences that touch all the senses.

The similarities between these two worlds of design will be the subject of “Designing Luxury,” a panel discussion at the Miami Center for Architecture & Design.

“With any product or experience, the world of luxury design follows basic, yet vital, tenets,” said David Woodhouse, director of Lincoln design and a panelist. “Both luxury automobile designers and designers of high-end buildings need their creations to meet all the necessary functional requirements, but elevate the execution in a way that speaks to people’s aspirations, taps into their dreams and helps them stand apart from the crowd.”

Joining Woodhouse on the panel are two members of the American Institute of Architects: Rene Gonzalez, principal of Rene Gonzalez Architect, and Bernard Zyscovich, managing partner of Zyscovich Inc.

Moderating the dialogue is Javier F. Salman, senior project architect, Stantec, and also a member of AIA.

“I’m excited to learn about something I’m passionate about – automotive design – in a close and personal way and learn how it compares and contrasts to my particular brand of design,” said Salman, who owns a 1971 Lincoln Mark III.

This Lincoln Mark III – chocolate brown metallic exterior with bucket seats and brown interior – is one of a handful of cars owned by Salman, who repairs and restores vintage cars as a hobby.

The panel will explore designing luxury through best ways to interpret heritage and customer aspirations, then using these findings to create the luxury experience.

“Luxury automobile exterior design should be simple, inviting, approachable and most of all, elegant,” Woodhouse said. “Exterior design needs to be complemented by an interior that makes the driver feel comfortable and confident. Ultimately, the two work together to create an experience that is unique, personal and luxurious.

Integrating technology to create a warmer, more personal experience differentiates luxury automobile design. The Lincoln MKC small premium utility will debut Lincoln Experiences when it goes on sale later this year. Lincoln Experiences:

  • Anticipates needs and preferences – As you approach the vehicle it anticipates you, welcomes you and guides you with subtle and focused lighting where it is most needed.
  • Employs fluid, seamless motions and sounds – Unlocking and entering the vehicle is a fluid and effortless experience with refined motions and sounds, ambient lighting and crafted human interfaces.
  • Creates warm and inviting comfort – The cabin is a warm and inviting space with seating that embraces and forms around you, and appropriate ambient lighting to meet your needs and personal preferences.

“I am eager to listen to and participate in the exchange of ideas,” Woodhouse said. “I look forward to bringing back new perspectives I can employ in the automotive world.”

 

Images courtesy of The Lincoln Motor Company:

 

 

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About The Lincoln Motor Company
The Lincoln Motor Company is the luxury automotive brand of Ford Motor Company, committed to creating compelling vehicles with an exceptional ownership experience to match. The Lincoln Motor Company is in the process of introducing four all-new vehicles through 2016. For more information about The Lincoln Motor Company, please visit media.lincoln.com or www.lincoln.com. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/lincoln.

 

Contacts: Stéphane Cesareo Sam Locricchio
  313.323.8917 313.845.8675
  scesareo@lincoln.com slocric1@lincoln.com

Landmark Doral Cosmo chic Event of the year launching its Welcome Home Center by Betty Alvarez

Lennar’s newest community in Doral, Landmark, recently opened its sophisticated new sales center with a grand opening party that welcomed 700 guests. The “cosmo-chic” community offers contemporary design while delivering modern technology and exclusive amenities. For upscale and affluent homebuyers with a modern flare, Landmark is an ultra modern design setting with a new urban twist that promotes outdoor activity in community, green space while blending lifestyle and convenience in addition to nearby shops and restaurants.

A new standard in contemporary-living with an inspiring collection of two and three story townhomes, (some with elevators) each unit is designed with the latest architectural styles with clean lines and abundant natural light – both offering sky view terraces complete with summer kitchens Starting from the mid $400s, these contemporary townhomes feature a vast collection of floor plans with three and four bedroom designs, ranging from approximately 1,700 to over 2,00 a/c sq ft of living space, as well as the innovative NextGen – The Home within a Home design – all exuding included luxury upgrades

Comfortable open-spaces are optimized for function with flowing floor plans and multi-levels of enviable indoor-outdoor South Florida living. Volume kitchen and living areas provide a countless array of options for customizing the ideal entertaining and dwelling space. Interiors boast contemporary style accents such as floor to ceiling windows, recessed high-hat lighting, stainless-steel stair railing, and grand kitchens with Quartz countertops, glass or stone backsplash, double wall ovens, and wine cooler, as well as Advanced Savant WirelessTechnology System.

Residents of Landmark will enjoy Club Chic, a resort clubhouse with cutting edge fitness center and expansive pool, as well as Open air Ampitheater, Tennis and Kids Splash Park. Located in the heart of Doral, residents are issued the benefits of on-site amenities, nearby schools, shopping, dining and famed Trump International Resort and Spa.

Visit the chic Lennar Welcome Home Center at NW 66th ST and 107th AVE., Doral, FL. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (. (877) 200-0199. You may also find information on www.lennar.com/floridadeals.

Immersion: National Theatre of Scotland’s Prudencia Hart

POST-EVENT
Photos credit: Miami Live! Arts/Miami Dade College/Mitchell Zachs

Immersion: National Theatre of Scotland’s Prudencia Hart

MDC Live Arts and its audiences enjoyed a raucous run of the National Theatre of Scotland in The Strange Undoing of Prudencia Hart which ran for six performances from February 19th through the 23rd.

Pérez Art Museum Miami Presents New Works By Miami-Based Artist Edouard Duval-Carrié

PRESS RELEASE

Edouard Duval-Carrié: Imagined Landscapes
On view March 13, 2014 – August 31, 2014
Conversation with Edouard Duval Carrié and Tobias Ostrander, March 13 at 7pm

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) will present a solo exhibition of new works by Haitian-born, Miami-based artist Edouard Duval-Carrié from March 13 to August 31, 2014. Generated over the past year, Imagined Landscapes features a series of mural-sized paintings and chandeliers, conceived as a single installation, depicting lush tropical scenes executed entirely in black and silver glitter. The exhibition will open with a conversation between Duval Carrié and PAMM Chief Curator Tobias Ostrander on March 13, 2014 at 7pm.

“Edouard Duval-Carrié has produced a very exciting new body of work with his dark “Imaginary Landscapes,” said PAMM Chief Curator Tobias Ostrander. “This suite of sparkling paintings and sculptures dialogue dynamically with the characteristics of the gallery space at PAMM, as well as with the context of tropical Miami as a Caribbean city. This series intriguingly reveals the strong influence of his recent pan-Caribbean research and outlook.”

Edouard Duval-Carrié is known for his innovative adaptions of traditional Haitian iconography, which he engages in order to address contemporary social and political conditions. Contrasting his signature use of strident colors, this new project presents works executed entirely in black and silver glitter. Involving extensive research, Imagined Landscapes presents lush tropical scenes that reference specific 19th century paintings executed in the Caribbean and Florida. These paintings, by artists such as William Heade and Frederick Church, were commissioned as part of Colonialist interests in promoting economic development of these areas of the world. The artists used pictorial effects, imagination and fictions to present the Caribbean as the “New Eden,” a fertile land of possibility. Duval-Carrié’s works translate these historical images into his own contemporary aesthetic language, in order to address the manner in which the tropics of the Caribbean and Florida continue to be sold as tropical paradises, in ways that often obscure traditional economic and social disparities that continue to be perpetuated in these contexts.

Edouard Duval-Carrié: Imagined Landscapes, organized by PAMM, is part of a season of presentations and programs focusing on Caribbean art, and celebrating Miami’s position as a Caribbean capital. On Friday, April 18, 2014, PAMM will open Caribbean: Crossroads of the World, an unprecedented juxtaposition of historical and contemporary works. Duval-Carrié’s Le General Toussaint Enfumé (General Touissant Wreathed in Smoke, or Pretty in Pink), 2003 is on view in Caribbean. Also opening April 18 is a large-scale work by Simon Starling, Inverted Retrograde Theme, USA (House for a Songbird), a recently-acquired installation that traces the paradoxes of modernist architecture in the Caribbean. A large scale installation by artist Hew Locke, a British artist of Guyanese descent, For Those in Peril on the Sea, hangs in the museum’s front entrance. For more information about upcoming programs, visit pamm.org/calendar.

About Pérez Art Museum Miami
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) promotes artistic expression and the exchange of ideas, advancing public knowledge and appreciation of art, architecture and design, and reflecting the diverse community of its pivotal geographic location at the crossroads of the Americas. Designed by world-renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron, the museum’s new facility, a state-of-the-art model for sustainable museum design and progressive programming, opened in Downtown Miami’s Museum Park on December 4, 2013. The facility features 200,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor program space with sprawling galleries, shaded outdoor verandas, a waterfront restaurant and bar, a museum shop and an education center with a library, media lab and classroom spaces. For more information, please visit pamm.org, find us on Facebook (facebook.com/perezartmuseummiami), or follow us on Twitter (@pamm).

Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. Support is provided by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. Additional support is provided by the City of Miami. Pérez Art Museum Miami is an accessible facility. All contents ©Pérez Art Museum Miami. All rights reserved.

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Goya Foods to Serve as the Official Latin/Hispanic Foods Sponsor of the 2014 Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival Presented by FOOD & WINE

PRESS RELEASE

Goya Foods to Serve as the Official Latin/Hispanic Foods Sponsor of the 2014 Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival Presented by FOOD & WINE

This will be Goya’s Third Year participating at the Festival
Miami Beach, Fla. (Feb. 17, 2014) – Goya Foods of Florida announced today that for the third year in a row it has joined the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival’s (SOBEWFF) roster of sponsors. The 13th annual edition of America’s favorite and largest wine and culinary extravaganza will take place Feb. 20 through 23, 2014, to benefit Florida International University’s (FIU) Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management and the Southern Wine & Spirits Beverage Management Center.

Festival attendees will have the opportunity to sample a variety of Goya products throughout the weekend event. Goya will once again participate in the Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village from Friday, Feb. 21 through Sunday, Feb. 23; the Fun and Fit as a Family sponsored by Carnival featuring the Goya Kidz Kitchen hosted by Robert Irvine on Saturday, Feb. 22 and Sunday, Feb. 23; and the Goya Foods’ Swine & Wine hosted by Michelle Bernstein on Sunday, Feb. 23. To offer guests a one-of-a-kind opportunity to savor the brand’s authentic Hispanic flavors at each one of the events, Goya’s Executive Chef, Fernando Desa, will showcase recipes with SOBEWFF-inspired fare. Goya has also partnered with a line-up of celebrated chefs including; Chef José Mendin, Chef Richard Ingraham, Chef Richard Plasencia and Chef Sean Brasel.

“Goya products have been a part of Hispanic homes for generations, and today, the most demanding chefs in the business value the versatility of our food line,” said Frank Unanue, president of Goya Foods of Florida. “We’re proud to be the Festival’s Official Latin/Hispanic Foods Provider for the 3rd consecutive year, and we look forward to showcasing our authentic products as must-have additions to any kind of cuisine.”

Chef José Mendin, executive chef of Miami Beach’s Pubbelly, Pubbelly Sushi and Pubbelly Steak, will be at Goya’s outpost at the Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village on Saturday, Feb. 22, to prepare Soft Polenta with Roasted Mushroom and Goya Huitlacoche all made with Goya Foods products and condiments. As one of the most celebrated chefs in South Beach, Chef José Mendin’s daring culinary approach showcases his talent for updating traditional recipes with modern techniques. His non-conventional tactics and distinct style have positioned his gastronomic creations as a “must-try” on Miami’s food scene.

Also joining the Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village on Saturday, Feb. 22 and Sunday, Feb. 23, is Goya’s Executive Chef Fernando Desa. Chef Desa, who is responsible for the research and development of new products and recipes for the company, is recognized for incorporating Latin American flavors that can easily be applied at home. This year, he will be serving an array of dishes including Asian Steamed Buns with Pulled Pork and Sofrito with Black Beans and Arugula, Crispy Aji Tuna Tartar Tacos with Aji Crema and Guava Reduction, Stuffed Sweet Plantain with Creamy Shrimp and Chorizo topped with Smoked Pimenton Aioli and Empanada a la Gallega Purse with Pineapple Soy Glaze.

“We’re thrilled Goya Foods has returned for a third year as our Official Latin/Hispanic Food Provider,” said Festival Founder and Director, Lee Brian Schrager. “The support of quality brands like Goya allows us to continue presenting the nation’s leading culinary event and gives our attendees an unmatched experience.”
For some of the younger food connoisseurs, Fun and Fit as a Family sponsored by Carnival featuring the Goya Kidz Kitchen hosted by Robert Irvine on Saturday, Feb. 22 and Sunday, Feb. 23, which will offer the ultimate family-friendly fun including healthy food tastings, physical fitness activities and star-studded healthy cooking demonstrations. Chef Richard Ingraham will showcase healthy alternatives to children’s favorites, such as Black Bean Sliders and a healthy twist to Arroz con Leche. Joining him will be Executive Chef, Richard Plasencia of Baptist Health South Florida, who will be in charge of serving the sweet fare, sharing his passion for healthy seasonal recipes. Chef Plasencia will be creating a refreshing Plantain Ginger Flan.

To end the four-day festival, Goya will take over the Biltmore Hotel for the Goya Foods’ Swine & Wine hosted by Michelle Bernstein, on Sunday, Feb. 23. Chefs Fernando Desa and Sean Brasel will be teaming up in an all-star collaboration to prepare different variations of pork. As co-owner and Executive Chef of Meat Market in Miami Beach, Chef Brasel is known for his passion, skill and creativity. Under his culinary vision and direction, Meat Market has quickly become a Miami Beach hot spot, serving steakhouse classics with a sexy, NYC-inspired vibe.
For the Swine & Wine event, the duo will be serving a “Caja China” Pork with Potato Cakes and Asian Steamed Buns with Pulled Pork and Sofrito with Black Beans and Arugula. Chefs Ingrid Hoffman and Douglas Ródriguez will also join the occasion to showcase their signature glazes, rubs and secret blends, for a mouthwatering swine feast.

Tickets for these select events and others are available at www.sobefest.com, and via phone at 877.762.3933. Fans who want to follow Goya Foods online can do so on Facebook at Facebook.com/LaGranFamiliaGoya Twitter at @GranFamiliaGoya using #GoyaSOBE

About Goya Foods
Founded in 1936, Goya Foods, Inc. is America’s largest Hispanic-owned food company and has established itself as the leader in Latin American food and condiments. Goya manufactures, packages and distributes more than 1,600 high-quality food products from the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America. For more information on Goya Foods, please visit www.goya.com.

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Miami Marlins 2014 Promotions Schedule

Miami Marlins 2014 Promotions Schedule
MM_MLOGO_WBGMarlins Park
501 Marlins Way,
Miami, Florida 33125
Webpage Link
Cost: tickets vary by seating

The Miami Marlins announced today their promotions schedule for the 2014 regular season. Sean Flynn, Sr. Vice President of Marketing and Event Booking made the announcement. This year’s promotions schedule features 15 fan giveaways as well as an unprecedented selection of special value ticket offers for fans, available for every day of the week.

On Monday home games in 2014 (including Opening Night on March 31), the popular All You Can Eat Seats return for just $22 in the Home Run Porch or $32 in the Lexus Legends Level. The All You Can Eat Seats include a game ticket and unlimited Kayem Beef Franks, Peanuts, Popcorn, Nachos, Pepsi Soft drinks and Aquafina Water. The offer will be available online, at the Marlins Park Ticket Office, or for groups of 20 or more by calling 305-480-2523, or visiting marlins.com/groups. Also on Mondays in 2014 (excluding Opening Night), all active and retired military personnel, veterans, first responders, military civilians and their spouses and children (up to 4 family members) can take advantage of complimentary tickets with the South Florida Heroes Mondays promotion. The South Florida Heroes Monday offer is available on the day of game only, beginning two hours prior to the scheduled first pitch. Fans must present a valid ID at the Marlins Park East Ticket Office. Additionally, GovX Members (which include military, police, fire, EMS, first responders and government agencies), can take advantage of a Buy One Ticket, Get the Second 50% Off special offer on all Monday through Thursday home games in 2014 (excluding Opening Night). For more information see the GovX special offer at marlins.com.

With Miami Herald Half Price Tuesdays, fans can purchase tickets in the Lexus Legends Level, Baseline Reserved, Bullpen Reserved and Home Run Porch for half their regular price on any Tuesday home game in 2014. Fans can purchase up to 8 tickets per transaction, online at marlins.com or at the Marlins Park ticket office. This offer is also available for groups of 20 or more by calling (305) 480-2523 or visiting marlins.com/groups.

On Kids Eat Free Wednesday Nights, all kids 12 and under can eat free (excludes Wednesday matinee games on May 7, June 18, July 30 and Aug. 20). The Kids Eat Free Wednesday Nights promotion is valid for all seating categories in the ballpark. Each child 12 and under will receive a voucher at the ballpark entrance for a free Kayem Beef Frank, a bag of Frito Lay chips and a small Pepsi or Aquafina water, redeemable at any Fan Feast or D’ Town Favorites concession stand in the ballpark. Also on Wednesdays, fans can take advantage of the Chevron “Crazy 8’s” Ticket Offer and get $8 Bullpen Reserved or $18 Home Plate Box tickets to any Wednesday home game in 2014 with the purchase of eight (8) gallons or more from any participating South Florida Chevron station. Fans can present their registered receipt at the Marlins Park Ticket Office to receive this offer or go to marlins.com/chevron for more details.

A new promotion, Marlins Cap Thursday Nights (for groups only), will provide fans with a take home gift from their Marlins experience. Fans will receive a Marlins baseball cap for every group ticket purchased (except for April 3 & May 22 games). This promotion excludes premium seating, Suite Rentals, Bullpen Zone, Budweiser Balcony and Clevelander Seating. Also on Thursdays, fans age 55 and older can take advantage of the Seniors Free Ticket Thursdays promotion presented by Wellmax Medical Centers and receive a complimentary ticket to any Thursday home game in 2014. Valid identification must be shown at the Marlins Park East Ticket Office at the designated window on the day of game only, beginning two hours prior to scheduled first pitch. Tickets will be based on the best available seating, not to exceed Baseline Reserved.

Weekends will be highlighted by several promotions and events, beginning with Fireworks Fridays, which features a pregame party on the West Plaza, including radio broadcasts and appearances, live music on the stage, Marlins Energy Team performances, sponsor activation areas with interactive displays and entertainment for all ages. Immediately following the game, fans can enjoy a fireworks show over Marlins Park from the comfort of their seats.

Saturday Spectaculars return this season and will include a pregame party on the West Plaza featuring live music on the main stage, appearances from the Marlins Sea Creatures, interactive displays and entertainment for all ages. Eight of the 13 Saturday Spectacular home games (7:10 p.m. games only) will feature a post-game party at The Clevelander at Marlins Park, on the East Plaza, with local and regional DJs, drink specials and entertainment for all fans. The remaining five Saturday Spectacular home games (May 24 and 31, June 14, 21, and 28) return the popular West Plaza post-game concerts with national recording artists, plus food and beverage kiosks, appearances from The Energy Team and more. A full schedule of artists will be released on marlins.com and marlinsbeisbol.com closer to the start of the season. The All You Can Eat Seats will also be available on Saturday Spectaculars, for just $27 in Home Run Porch or $37 in the Lexus Legends Level. Like Mondays, menu items will include Kayem Beef Franks, Peanuts, Popcorn, Nachos, Pepsi Sodas and Aquafina Water. Fans will be able to claim their food and beverages from concession stands at Section 205 for the Lexus Legends Level guests and section 36 in centerfield for the Home Run Porch. The offer will be available online, at the Marlins Park Ticket Office, or for groups of 20 or more by calling 305-480-2523 or visiting marlins.com/groups.

All 13 Sunday home games in 2014 will be designated as Marlins Family Sundays. Activities will include appearances with music, games and prizes from Radio Disney AM 990, face painters, interactive games, Selfie Snapshot Sunday photo opportunities with players and more. Fans can get a photo with a Marlins player at Selfie Snapshot Sunday in the New Era Team Store on the West Plaza. All kids 12 and under can run the bases in Diamond Dash after all Sunday games. The Pepsi 4-for-$54 Pack is back for Marlins Family Sundays, with packages available in the Lexus Legends Level, Baseline Reserved and Home Run Porch. The Pepsi 4-for-$54 Pack includes four (4) tickets, four (4) Kayem Beef Franks and four (4) Pepsi soft drinks, starting at just $54. This promotion will be available online, at the Marlins Park Ticket Office, or for groups of 20 or more by calling 305-480-2523 or visiting marlins.com/groups. Hot dog and Pepsi vouchers will be printed with the tickets and redeemable at any Fan Fest concession stand on the day of the game only. All Marlins Family Sunday home games will also include a Marlins giveaway item. A full list of scheduled giveaways can be found below and at marlins.com or marlinsbeisbol.com.

An all new seating section and ticket package was released for the 2014 season. The Jose’s Heroes section at Marlins Park is one of the best new fan areas in Major League Baseball. Jose’s Heroes seats will be in the Bullpen Reserved sections in Left Field, above the Clevelander at Marlins Park (Sec. 29-32). Fans can purchase these tickets through:
 Season Ticket Plan for $499:
o Offer includes tickets to all 81 games, all 6 commemorative Jose’s Heroes t-shirts, K-Cards and an invitation to an exclusive Meet & Greet with Jose Fernandez.
 Group tickets:
o Bring your group of 20 or more to any Jose’s Heroes game in which Jose starts for the Marlins. Each ticket is $16 and includes that month’s commemorative Jose’s Heroes t-shirt for every group ticket purchased.
 Single game tickets:
o Join the fun and purchase a ticket in the Jose’s Heroes section. Tickets can be purchased online at marlins.com or at the Marlins Park Ticket Office. Fans who attend all of Jose’s home starts will receive an invitation to the exclusive Meet & Greet with Jose.

Also this season, Businessperson Specials will be offered for groups on weekday matinee games. Matinee games are ideal for entertaining clients, hosting meetings or simply enjoying an employee lunch at the ballpark. Each Businessperson Specials group ticket includes $10-$20 in concessions credit or a customized hospitality event suited for your group. This offer is available for weekday matinee games only and excludes Premium Seating, Suite Rentals, Bullpen Zone, Budweiser Balcony and Clevelander Seating.

Single game tickets for the 2014 season go on sale this Saturday, February 15, at 10 A.M. at Marlins Park during the T-Mobile Miami Marlins Winter Warm-Up (10AM-2PM), and online beginning at 10 A.M. at marlins.com and marlinsbeisbol.com. The T-Mobile Miami Marlins Winter Warm-Up will also give fans an opportunity to meet Marlins players, get autographs and enjoy live music, games, rides and activities for the entire family.

Philanthropy Miami Shark Tank Seeks Solutions to Community Needs, Winning Proposal to Receive $5000 – Submission Deadline 3/3/14

Philanthropy Miami Shark Tank Seeks Solutions to Community Needs, Winning Proposal to Receive $5000
Submission Deadline: 3 p.m. Monday, March 3.
More Information.
Email submissions to elau@chasemiami.com
Download Application Form PDF

Ever drive down a Miami street and wonder “why don’t they …”?

Leave A Legacy of Miami Dade on Tuesday launched the Philanthropy Miami Shark Tank, a community competition that offers the opportunity to be the change we seek. Instead of a business challenge, this shark tank seeks ideas to fulfill a community need through partnerships developed between nonprofits, businesses and/or individuals.

“Anyone or any organization or business can submit their ideas. But they can’t go it alone,” said Teresa Weintraub, co-chair of Leave A Legacy©. “Our goal is to encourage creative thinking and the creation of new collaborations and approaches to move our community forward. In other words, people have to work together.”

The process is simple: each team must submit a 500-word description about their idea by 3 p.m. Monday, March 3. A panel of pre-sharks (local business and nonprofit leaders) will select the top 10 ideas. Attendees at the Philanthropy Miami Conference on Strategic Thinking on Friday, March 21 at Jungle Island will select the top five.

The five with the most votes will move on to the final round at Philanthropy Miami Conference Day of Dynamic Ideas on Friday, March 21 at Jungle Island. The finalists will present their ideas to the Philanthropy Miami Shark Tank, a panel of five business and nonprofit executives.

The winning team and their proposal will be announced that day and be awarded $5000 to set their idea in motion.

“In the past, we focused our efforts solely on the nonprofit community. But we’ve seen wonderful collaborations between non-profits and for-profits. It really doesn’t matter who teams up, because in the end the community profits,” Weintraub said.

Philanthropy Miami is sponsored by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation; Bank of America; Wells Fargo; Baptist Health South Florida Foundation; Florida International University; Peacock Foundation, Inc.; and SunTrust

Shark Tank Specifics
What: Philanthropy Miami Shark Tank, a competitive showcase of new ideas to solve community needs. Individuals, non-profit organizations and businesses are invited to submit a 500-word description of the synergy that will result from a new strategic partnership and idea to help solve a specific need in our community.

Submission Tips
Please demonstrate through your idea:
A new collaborative partnership
Demonstrate an approach to solving problems
How the partnership will benefit the community
The project will be evaluated by the following criteria:
Unique connection of the partners
Compelling and creative project
Community impact
How will you measure success?

Finalist Selection: A panel of Pre-Sharks will review the entries and select 8-10 finalists, which will be voted on by attendees at Philanthropy Miami, Day 1 conference on Friday, March 21. The top five move on to the final round.

Final Round/Winner Selection: The Shark Tank panel will hear from the five finalists and select a winner at Philanthropy Miami, Day 2 on April 16 at Jungle Island.

Philanthropy Miami Shark Tank
Joelle Allen, Executive Director, Peacock Foundation, Inc.
Fernand Amandi, Managing Partner, Bendixen & Amandi International
Gretchen Beesing, President and CEO, Catalyst Miami
Jodi Engelberg, Founding Member, The Value Web
Miguel Milanes, Regional Vice President, Miami-Dade, Allegany Franciscan Ministries

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GMCVB Miami Romance Month Offers and Happenings February 2014

GMCVB Miami Romance Month Offers and Happenings
www.MiamiRomanceMonth.com

Romantic Tempting Options for 2014 Trips to Greater Miami and Beaches…
Miami Romance Month is part of the GMCVB’s increasingly popular Miami Temptations program, which takes a thematic focus on the best that Miami has to offer throughout the year at attractive prices.

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) is celebrating its fourth Miami Romance Month, sponsored by MasterCard’s Priceless Miami program. Cupid’s arrow has moved Miami Romance Month from June to the month of February this year offering visitors and locals value added deals to inspire romantic getaways and activities. Dedicated website, www.MiamiRomanceMonth.com, provides a comprehensive guide to the destination and calendar of events to reference for couples’ and groups’ planning a little lovin’.

From cruise giveaways to promotional performances and events, save the date for:

Love Song Serenades at Brickell:
Officially kicking off Miami Romance Month on Thursday, January 30, 2014, local singer and pianist Brendan O’Hara will surprise Mary Brickell Village diners with romantic love song serenades featuring tunes from one of Broadway’s most celebrated and Tony Award winning plays, “Once.” The traveling show will come to Miami (February 4 – 9) at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County. During the event, those who snap a romantic photo and share it on Instagram using #MiamiRomance and #OnceMusical will be entered for a chance to win two tickets to “Once” on February 4th at the Arsht Center.

Love Sets Sail:
From February 1, the Visit Miami Facebook page www.facebook.com/visitmiami will host a ‘Miami Romance Month Norwegian Getaway Giveaway’ giving fans the chance to enter to win a seven-day cruise for two aboard Miami’s Ultimate Ship â„¢, Norwegian Getaway, and a two-night stay in Miami pre-or-post cruise. Simply click on the Cruise Contest tab and enter to win!

Wedding Inspiration for Brides and Grooms to Be:
What has now become an annual Miami Romance Month event, the It’s So Miami Wedding Showcase (hosted at the Coral Gables Country Club on February 4 from 5:30-8:30pm), will be an informative and fun-filled evening for couples considering a destination wedding. From delicious sweets and savory samples, to top tips from premier local wedding planners, designers, florists and caterers, having a wedding in Greater Miami could go from dream to reality. Attendees will also have the chance to win a cruise for two on Norwegian Getaway.

“Recently recognized as one of the top three most romantic cities in America by Amazon.com, Greater Miami and the Beaches continues to solidify itself as a leading destination to fall in love and celebrate romantic milestones – engagements, commitment ceremonies and weddings, anniversaries, honeymoons, you name it!” said GMCVB President & CEO William D. Talbert, III, CDME. “As we welcome more visitors each year, we’ve seen our Temptations Program thrive and Miami Romance Month is one people thoroughly enjoy and take advantage of.”

Other programs include Miami Cruise Month, Shop Miami Month, Miami Sports Month, Miami Museum Month, Miami Film Month, Miami Spa Month, Miami Spice Restaurant Month, Miami Attractions Month, and Miami Live Month. For more information on the Temptations programs please visit www.MiamiTemptations.com.

Knight Arts Challenge Grants Open for Applications 1/27/14-2/24/14

Knight Arts Challenge logo
Knight Arts Challenge, seeking best ideas for the South Florida arts, opens for applications, January 27 – February 24, 2014.

Application Link

Beginning Jan. 27, South Floridians can apply for the Knight Arts Challenge, which funds the best ideas for bringing South Florida together through the arts. The deadline for the contest, a project of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, is Feb. 24.

The challenge is open to everyone: artists and artist collectives of all types, businesses, established arts institutions, and any individual who has a great idea for the arts. The initial application, which will be available at KnightArts.org consists of just two questions and is deliberately designed to be simple to encourage nontraditional applicants.

There are only three rules for the challenge:
1) The idea must be about the arts.
2) The project must take place in or benefit South Florida
3) The grant recipients must find funds to match Knight’s commitment (within a year).

“This contest is about ideas—big ideas, innovative ideas, authentically Miami ideas,” Scholl said. Knight has received more than 7,500 ideas from the South Florida community since launching the challenge in 2008. In total, 193 projects have received almost $22.1 million in funding.

Since 2006, Knight Foundation has invested $86 million in South Florida’s cultural community. Those funds have launched a new media program that includes the signature “Wallcasts” at the acclaimed New World Symphony campus, helped present Ibero-American films at the Miami International Film Festival, and will bring every Miami-Dade third grader to the new Pérez Art Museum Miami, among other projects.  The approach is two-pronged: Knight Foundation aims to help open up institutions to more South Floridians with large grants, while the Arts Challenge ensures that smaller, grassroots efforts fuel and refresh the arts scene.

14471-KF-Ad-KACM-SoulOfMiami-300x250

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News: ACLU of Florida Statement on Marriage Equality Lawsuit Filed January 21, 2014

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 21, 2014

MIAMI – Today, six same-sex couples announced the filing of a lawsuit in Florida state court to challenge the state’s ban on marriages for same-sex couples.
The following statement on today’s announcement is from Daniel Tilley, LGBT rights staff attorney for the ACLU of Florida:

“Marriage equality is inevitable and coming soon for Floridians because brave couples are demanding the dignity under the law that marriage provides. We are hopeful that the court hearing this case will agree with courts across the country that the Constitution requires that same-sex couples be permitted to marry.

Following our victory last June in the Windsor case at the Supreme Court, which largely ended federal marriage discrimination, including for Floridians, the ACLU has been organizing legislative and ballot initiatives and also building lawsuits across the country—so far in Pennsylvania, Virginia, North Carolina, and Oregon—to ensure that the case that reaches the Supreme Court next leads to the nationwide solution we are all working so hard for. Just as Floridians benefited from the Windsor case and the case of Loving v. Virginia before that, we are confident that our work and the work of our fellow LGBT organizations will lead to finally bringing marriage equality to all fifty states, including Florida.”

About the ACLU of Florida
The ACLU of Florida is freedom’s watchdog, working daily in the courts, legislatures and communities to defend individual rights and personal freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. For additional information, visit our web site at: www.aclufl.org.

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News: Van Dyke Cafe Closing Statement

On behalf of Van Dyke Café

After 20 years of serving South Florida, Van Dyke Café will be closing on Sunday, January 26, 2014 with a celebration in honor of the memories we have created together. We thank all our loyal customers, staff, music directors and musicians that made both Van Dyke Café and Upstairs at Van Dyke one of the most special places on Lincoln Road.

We first opened our café in the historic Van Dyke building in 1994 and have been proudly serving Miami residents for nearly two decades. When Van Dyke Café opened its doors, Lincoln Road was just becoming the travel destination it is today, bustling with outdoor eateries — perfect for people watching and enjoying the South Florida weather.

In the spirit of Van Dyke Café, Soyka Restaurant will continue with a similar live music program on weekends. We hope you will consider Soyka not only for a great meal but also to enjoy great live music by some of South Florida’s best.

To celebrate our history and honor our loyal patrons, we will be hosting a celebration on January 26 from 5 to closing. Please come by and enjoy a complimentary toast and let’s reminisce the good times! We would like to extend a deep and heartfelt thank you to our dedicated staff and our loyal patrons.

But there may be a silver lining with this closing, we are very working hard with our landlord to find space within the Van Dyke complex so that we can keep the Van Dyke Cafe spirit alive by opening a smaller version, hopefully sometime in the spring!

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News Alert: Miami Smokers Launches National Kickstarter Campaign To Raise Funds To Build A Community Urban Smokehouse

PRESS RELEASE:
Miami Smokers Launches National Kickstarter Campaign To Raise Funds To Build A Community Urban Smokehouse
Miami Smokers Urban Smokehouse is located at 529 SW 12 Avenue in Little Havana. The Kickstarter Campaign to raise $25,000 to build the Artisans Curing Center, is live now through Friday, January 3 at 5:20 a.m.
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Officially launching their Kickstarter Campaign during their second annual Basel Biergarten pop-up in Wynwood during Art Basel week, chefs/owners Andres Barrientos and James Bowers of Miami Smokers, the city’s only smokehouse and producer of artisan bacon, are urging bacon-loving foodies, friends and fans to support their campaign to raise funds to build a fully functioning, humidity and temperature controlled community urban smokehouse and curing center.

Operating in Little Havana, the native Miami boys bring in local, high-quality, responsibly raised, heritage pigs from small, family-owned operations, and rely solely on the use of salt, smoke and temperature/humidity control to make their bacon. The duo create bacon for area restaurants, servicing clients such as The Federal, Blue Collar, Azucar Ice Cream Company, The Fontainebleau including Michael Mina’s Restaurant 74, and the Biscayne Marriott, among others, as well as treats sold at local farmers markets, such as Candied Bacon, Bacon Jerky, Smoked Salt, and Toasted Krispy Treats.

As locals who witnessed and played a part in Miami’s continued evolution into a culinary town, Barrientos and Bowers have a bigger dream – a social obligation of sorts – to preserve the trend of supporting local, and help solidify it into a way of life. Their contribution: Miami’s own Artisans Curing Center (ACC), a curing facility that can be used by chefs and local artisans to produce charcuterie in a controlled and monitored environment. With design plans underway, Barrientos and Bowers plan to file permits for construction of the USDA curing facility in January 2014.

In an attempt to fund the ACC, Miami Smokers has launched a Kickstarter Campaign to raise $25,000. A fairly new platform that facilitates crowd funding to bring creative projects to life, Kickstarter is a web-based forum for supporters to donate funds in return for “rewards”. Miami Smokers has a slew of pledge options, from $1 to $8,000, with rewards ranging from branded swag to food such as candied bacon and charcuterie of the month, and even private dinners or whole roasted pig parties. The Miami Smokers ACC project will only be funded if at least $25,000 is pledged by Friday, January 3, 2014 at 5:20 a.m. Supporters can monitor progress, learn more about the project, or donate at

www.kickstarter.com/projects/miamismokers/miami-smokers-urban-smokehouse.

Born and raised in Miami and friends for over 15 years, Barrientos and Bowers both have long-standing experience in the culinary industry. Most recently, the pair worked together at Aaron’s Catering in Miami, where Barrientos is still executive chef, and Bowers served as sous chef. A pop-up brunch series where they created everything from scratch, introduced the friends to curing their own bacon. Their creation, especially the candied version, proved to be a big hit and the boys realized they had stumbled upon something special. The newfound passion led them to Tennessee where they met with Allan Benton of Benton’s Smoky Mountain Country Hams, who provides some of the nation’s top chefs and restaurateurs with bacon for their award-winning restaurants. Benton showed them his operation, shared the secrets of his perfected tradition, and even sparked the idea of creating their local smokehouse. Barrientos and Bowers returned to Miami and Miami Smokers was born.

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Post-Release: media launch of SoulFrito The Urban Latin Music Festival

PRESS RELEASE:
Calma Carmona Makes Her Miami Debut In Front Of An Intimate Audience At The Media Launch For Soulfrito The Urban Latin Music Festival
Puerto Rican singer-songwriter provides some Soulful Latin flavor and a taste of emerging musical talent as part of the festival¹s line-up in February 2014

The week of Art Basel set the scene at Cafeina Lounge in Miami¹s Wynwood Arts District on Thursday, December 5th, for the official Media Launch of SOULFRITO The Urban Latin Music Festival presented by Hennessy.

During the evening¹s invitation-only event, celebrated Puerto Rican songwriter and recording artist, Calma Carmona, took to the stage for her first South Florida appearance and a highly anticipated live acoustic performance in front of a receptive crowd of Miami¹s discerning music enthusiasts. Following an initial cocktail reception, courtesy of Hennessy, Butta P from Miami¹s popular 99 Jamz radio station introduced Carmona on-stage to an eager applause. The inaugural unplugged performance consisted of her own opening rendition of ³Fever² by La Lupe, followed by a series of upbeat Latin soul tracks from her ³There¹s No Other Girl² live session EP. Miami was given a sneak peak of Carmona¹s debut performance three months before she takes to the stage at SOULFRITO The Urban Latin Music Festival in February next year at Sun Life Stadium, as part of an eclectic line-up of emerging talent.

Additional talent featured during the evening included Anané and Louie Vega, the husband and wife duo from New York, who span a mix of house and other soulful underground favorites throughout the evening. The American musician of Puerto Rican ancestry, Louie Vega, is one half of the Masters At Work musical production team. Vega¹s father, Luis Vager, was a jazz saxophonist, and his uncle was singer Héctor Lavoe of the Fania All-Stars. All three artists Carmona along with Anané and Louie Vega met for the first time and were seen relaxing in the upstairs Hennessy VIP lounge at Cafeina with SOULFRITO founder, Melissa Giles, during press interviews and photography following Carmona¹s on-stage performance.

Miami-based muralist, Diana Contreras, gave invited guests an example of today¹s most avant-garde street art during the evening¹s entertainment. The Peruvian artist, now living in Miami, experimented with charcoal, pastel and spray paint, as she turned a blank canvas in to a design masterpiece by the time the evening came to an end.

Since its inception in 2002, SOULFRITO The Urban Latin Music Festival has been the premier launch pad for emerging and established artists, as well as brands looking to connect with the multicultural U.S Hispanic audience that now forms today¹s mainstream market. Founded by Miami-based entrepreneur, Melissa Giles, SOULFRITO made an early contribution towards launching the careers of artists such as Pitbull, Wisin Y Yandel, Aventura and Kat Deluna, among others, and continues to provide an attractive platform for producers and brand partners that wish to engage second, third and fourth generation US-Hispanics and enthusiasts of Urban Latin culture.

Strategic partnerships have been formed ahead of SOULFRITO The Urban Latin Music Festival in February next year at Sun Life Stadium, including with Clear Channel¹s Mega 949, who will act as the festival¹s exclusive Latin radio partner, along with WEDR 99 Jams, the leading radio station for the 18-34 demographic. In partnership with the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, SOULFRITO will be offering a series Travel Package giveaways in feeder markets nationwide and for those looking to attend the festival who are traveling from outside Florida.

SOULFRITO The Urban Latin Music Festival will take place on February 22nd, 2014, at Sun Life Stadium, featuring NAS, Don Omar, Juicy J, Victor Manuelle, Hector “El Torito” Acosta, Sensato, Plan B, Sensato Calma Carmona, DJ Camilo,DJ Enuff and hosted by Adrienne Bailon and Julissa Bermudez.

Tickets are now on sale through Ticketmaster by visiting www.soulfrito.com.

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photo credit: courtesy of SOULFRITO

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The GMCVB Re-vamped Miami Temptations Programming for 2014

The GMCVB Re-vamped Miami Temptations Programming for 2014
www.MiamiTemptations.com

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) is set to kick-off 2014 with a new and expanded programming line-up of its wildly popular Miami Temptations program, which is sponsored by MasterCard Priceless Miami and takes a thematic focus on the best that Greater Miami and the Beaches has to offer at attractive prices.
 
For the first-time ever, the Bureau introduces Miami Cruise Month in January along with Miami Sports Month in March and announces new dates for its traditional Miami Romance Month, which will now be celebrated in February, while Miami Film Month will take place in June.

In 2014, each themed month will continue to offer locals and visitors the opportunity to enjoy value-driven opportunities and promotions throughout Greater Miami and the Beaches. A brief line-up description of the new 2014 Miami Temptations program follows.

January – Miami Cruise Month: Encourages consumers to plan-ahead and book a cruise on a participating cruise line, with itineraries departing from PortMiami as well as special pre- and post-cruise hotel stays. 
February – Miami Romance Month: Enjoy romantic offers at local participating hotels, restaurants, attractions, as well as heritage neighborhood tours throughout the city. 
March – Shop Miami Month: During March, spend $500 or more at a participating mall, retailer or heritage neighborhood shopping district and receive a special gift valued at up to $50. 
April – Miami Sports Month: Features discounts to a multitude of recreational activities found throughout Greater Miami & the Beaches including golf, tennis, bicycling, running, boating, water sports and more.
May – Miami Museum Month: Enjoy "buy one, get one free" admissions at participating museums. 
June – Miami Film Month: Enjoy pop-up film screenings and exclusive tours of iconic film sets. 
July + August – Miami Spa Month: Enjoy special $99 treatments usually priced at $200 or more at Miami’s premier participating spas. 
August + September – Miami Spice Restaurant Month: Top dining destinations in the area offer mouth-watering meals at incredible savings.
October – Miami Attractions Month: Visit or re-visit many unique participating attractions, while enjoying "buy one, get one free" admissions and other discount offers. 
November – Miami Live Month: Take advantage of exciting deals at live entertainment venues including live music, live theater performances and more.

From the shopaholic or film fanatic to the hopeless romantic, the Miami Temptations program gives consumers a chance to indulge in things they absolutely love at attractive prices.

Miami Habitat Presents $950,000+ Property Tax Check to County

PRESS RELEASE:
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami Presents Miami-Dade County Leaders with 2013 Property Tax Check

December 17, 2013
Miami, Florida
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami, a 501 (c) 3 developer of low income houses presented a check to Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez and Commission Chairwoman Rebeca Sosa in the amount of $966,512, representing the property taxes that Habitat homeowners generated in 2013. Habitat has helped nearly 1000 families achieve the dream of home-ownership since its inception by providing zero percent interest loans for purchase of Habitat built houses.

“Habitat helps low income families achieve their goals and they in turn contribute to the tax rolls in a significant fashion. Miami-Dade County is a great partner to Habitat and this is a way to show our elected leaders and our generous sponsors and donors that there is a tangible return on their investment,” said Mario Artecona, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami CEO.

Pictured (L to R): Miami-Dade County Commission Chairwoman Rebeca Sosa, Habitat Miami CEO Mario Artecona and Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez.
Pictured (L to R): Miami-Dade County Commission Chairwoman Rebeca Sosa, Habitat Miami CEO Mario Artecona and Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez.
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Celebrate the 2013 Knight Arts Challenge Winners

PRESS RELEASE:
Knight Arts Challenge 2013 Awards $2.72 million to new art projects

Knight Arts Challenge 2013

Knight Arts Challenge 2013

Knight Arts Challenge 2013

Knight Arts Challenge 2013

Knight Arts Challenge 2013In an evening infused with poetry, gospel music and big ideas for the local arts, more than 400 people celebrated the 2013 Knight Arts Challenge winners Monday night.

“We have helped to make possible that wonderful, magical thing: for the arts and thousands of artists to have touched the souls and inspired audiences of literally millions of people,” said Alberto Ibargüen, president of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, which sponsors the annual contest funding the best ideas for bringing South Florida together through the arts.

Guests were welcomed by eight Miamians reciting their own poems that incorporated the phrase #ThatsSoMiami, all of which won prizes as part of a poetry contest run by the O, Miami Poetry Festival. The Miami Mass Choir also lit up the stage with gospel music, leading the audience into a reception at the New World Center.
In all, $2.72 million was awarded to local artists and organizations, big and small, including the newly opened Perez Art Museum Miami, ArtCenter/South Florida, Cannonball Miami, the Miami Music Project, the Bass Museum, Indie Film Club, and more. Their ideas will blend art and technology and bring art into Miami’s many neighborhoods.

Local playwright Teo Castellanos won the People’s Choice Award in a text-to-vote campaign, and will receive an additional $20,000 for the project of his choice.
In addition, Knight Foundation honored Miami-Dade Cultural Affairs Director Michael Spring for 30 years of service to the local cultural community. A $100,000 Knight grant will go to the group of Spring’s choice: the Florida Cultural Alliance.

Now in its sixth year, the challenge has awarded funds to 193 projects throughout South Florida.

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Art Basel Miami Beach 2013 Post Press Release

PRESS RELEASE:
The 2013 edition of Art Basel in Miami Beach – which officially closed Sunday, December 8, 2013 – drew strong praise from collectors, gallerists, critics and visitors. With an expanded Public sector and a vibrantly diverse line-up of talks, performances and film screenings, the quality of works exhibited was matched by the show’s programming. The 12th edition was described by many observers as the strongest-ever Art Basel show in Miami Beach. Featuring 258 leading international galleries from across 31 countries, the show confirmed its positioning as the leading art fair of the Americas. Finally, the inaugural Edition sector at Art Basel’s show in Miami Beach was met with an enthusiastic response from both new and long-time collectors of prints and editioned pieces.

Art Basel in Miami Beach, whose Lead Partner is UBS, attracted an attendance of 75,000 over the five show days, a seven percent increase over last year. Over 140 museum and institution groups from across the world – as well as renowned private collectors from the Americas, Europe, Asia and emerging markets – attended the show.

Participating galleries spoke highly of their experience:
‘I’ve participated in Art Basel in Miami Beach since its inception in 2002 and without any exception, this is the most successful of all its editions in terms of quality, conversations, volume of visitors and new audiences.’ -Sean Kelly, Sean Kelly Gallery, New York

‘We have been very impressed by the quality of collectors attending this year, and by the number of curators and museum groups. The fair feels very focused, and there are some wonderful booths. Art Basel in Miami Beach is unmissable for galleries like ours and is now maturing and deepening in a very impressive way. Business here is broader than it was before – we have had success here with both our more established and our younger artists. It wasn’t always like that.’ -Sadie Coles, Sadie Coles HQ, London

‘At Art Basel in Miami Beach we have more serious first-time buyers than at any other fair in the world.’ -David Nolan, David Nolan Gallery, New York

‘This year has been marked for us by the largest number of museum groups and institutional contacts, and a new generation of collectors becoming very active.’ -Lucy Mitchell-Innes, Mitchell-Innes & Nash, New York

‘We’ve had a very successful fair this year, with strong and significant sales of works by young, mid-career, and established artists. We are very happy with our results.’ -Monika Sprüth, Sprüth Magers Berlin London, Berlin, London

‘Our first year at Art Basel in Miami Beach has been great. The sheer density of the crowds is astounding, and the activity in our booth has been constant and charged.’ -Jim Dempsey, Corbett vs. Dempsey, Chicago

‘Most of the works in the booth sold on opening day. The expanded Public sector at Collins Park was the perfect venue to show an ambitious new sculpture by Michelle Lopez to the broadest audience we could hope for.’ -Simon Preston, Simon Preston Gallery, New York

‘We met old and new collectors, from the United States, Europe, South America, and of course, a good number of Chinese collectors. The Rubell Family Collection’s presentation of 28 Chinese contemporary artists certainly brought a lot of attention and new interest as well.’ -Theresa Liang, Long March Space, Beijing

‘We were delighted to see the strong interest of European and American collectors in Latin American artists. Art Basel in Miami Beach is the meeting point for all art professionals, especially those from Latin America.’ – Livia Benavides, 80M2 Livia Benavides, Lima

‘Art Basel in Miami Beach is without a doubt one of the world’s most exceptional and unique contemporary art fairs. We are extremely pleased to end the year on such a high note after placing approximately 40 works in significant public and private collections throughout America, Europe and Asia.’ -David Maupin, Lehmann Maupin, New York, Hong Kong

‘This is our first year as an exhibitor at Art Basel in Miami Beach and we just loved being here. I think it was good for our artists to be exposed to this enormous and enormously diverse crowd. We enjoyed seeing many old friends and meeting a lot of new collectors and curators, who we trust will become friends over time. Our sales have been great.’ Peter MacGill, Pace/MacGill Gallery, New York

‘This year the energy is back. We have sold important pieces by prominent Brazilian artists such as Ernesto Neto, Iran do Espirito Santo, and Erika Vezzuti.’ -Alexandre Gabriel, Galeria Fortes Vilaça, São Paulo

‘We established relationships with many new collectors from across the United States, most of whom are deeply engaged with museums and institutions. It was heartening to see so many civic-minded individuals from Boston, Denver, Dallas, Atlanta, Minneapolis, Chicago, Hartford, San Antonio, even Reno, convene in Miami.’ -Alexander Gray, Alexander Gray Associates, New York

‘We have exhibited in Basel since the first year but are taking part in Art Basel in Miami Beach for the first time this year. The new Edition sector has drawn considerable interest and consistent sales. We sold a remarkable 33 works by one artist on the second day. Hopefully this will continue to grow – people will hear that you can buy an original work of art by a blue-chip artist for a price that many more people can afford, and realize art is not just for millionaires.’ -Helen Waters, Alan Cristea Gallery, London

‘NON is hugely excited to be part of this year’s Art Basel in Miami Beach. As one of the Nova galleries, we presented – for the ver irst time at a air in the nited tates – the or s o t o p-and-comin r ish artists Meri Al n in or and rdem a delen. As Art Basel continues to provide a global vehicle for creative dialog, we are very honored to have taken part and to have contributed to this exhilarating event.’ -Derya Demir, Galeri NON, Istanbul

A favorite sector among museum directors and critics, Kabinett offered visitors many of this ear’s highlights. 25 select galleries presented curated exhibitions within their booths, including work by Marina A ramović (L ciana Brito Galeria); José Bento and Raymundo Colares (A Gentil Carioca); Richard Fauguet (Art : Concept); Al Taylor (Niels Borch Jensen Galerie); Leon Polk Smith (Valerie Carberry Gallery); Gerold Miller (Mehdi Chouakri); Yeni & Nan (Henrique Faria Fine Art); Marius de Zayas (Galerie 1900-2000); Richard Meier (Galerie Gmurzynska); Luis Camnitzer (Alexander Gray Associates); Theaster Gates (Kavi Gupta Chicago/Berlin); James Edward Deeds (Hirschl & Adler Modern); Luis Gispert (Rhona Hoffman Gallery); Hu Qingyan (Galerie Urs Meile, Beijing-Lucerne); Claire Fontaine (Metro Pictures); Man Ray (Francis M. Naumann Fine Art); Damir Oč o (Yvon Lam ert); race min (Lehmann Ma pin); ean c ll (Galerie Lelong); Mel Kendrick (David Nolan Gallery); Martin Barré (Galerie Nathalie Obadia); Danilo Dueñas (Galerie Thomas Schulte); and Sam Francis (Van Doren Waxter). It also featured two thematic shows: ‘From Dusk Till Dawn’ at Kicken Berlin and ‘AiR (Krinzinger Artist in Residence)’ at Galerie Krinzinger.

Positions offered a tight selection of 16 galleries from 12 countries, each providing an opportunity to discover the work of an individual emerging artist. Presentations included: Dove Allouche (Gaudel de Stampa), Nicolás Consuegra (La Central), Lourival Cuquinha (Baró Galeria), Ulrik Heltoft (Andersen`s Contemporary), Tom Holmes (Bureau), Nadira Husain (PSM), Juan López (Nogueras Blanchard), Mathieu Malouf (Real Fine Arts), Jorge Pedro Nuñez (Galerie Crèvecoeur), Seung Yul Oh (One and J. Gallery), Vijai Patchineelam (Ignacio Liprandi Arte Contemporáneo), Laercio Redondo (Silvia Cintra + Box4), Stefanos Tsivopoulos (Kalfayan Galleries), Gabriel Acevedo Velarde (Arratia Beer), Oriol Vilanova (Parra & Romero), and Wang Yuyang (Tang Contemporary Art). Widely judged to feature the best presentations yet, this ear’s edition o Nova featured 34 galleries, many with works fresh from the studio. Limited to work made in the last three years, the sector was the site of exhibitions by David Ostrowski (Peres Projects); Jose Dávila (Max Wigram Gallery); John Finneran and Alisa Baremboym (47 Canal); Plamen Dejanoff and Lisa Holzer (Galerie Emanuel Layr); Shannon Ebner and Chris Johanson (Altman Siegel); José Antonio Suárez, Londoño, and Johanna Calle (Casas Riegner); Matt Connors and Bernard Piffaretti (Cherry and Martin); Nicole Eisenman and Tony Matelli (Leo Koenig); Mariana Mauricio, Mauro, Piva, and Sandra Gamarra (Galeria Leme); Daniel Jacoby and Nestor Sanmiguel Diest (Maisterravalbuena); Susan Collis, Ellen Harvey, and Evariste Richer (Meessen De Clercq); Oscar Muñoz, Julieta Aranda, and Voluspa Jarpa (Galerie mor.charpentier); Meric Algün Ringborg, and Erdem Tasdelen (NON); and many others. For the full list of galleries and artists, please visit artbasel.com/miami-beach/nova.

Following the long success of a dedicated sector for prints and limited-editioned works at Art Basel’s show in Switzerland, the debut Edition sector of the Miami Beach show featured Alan Cristea Gallery, Crown Point Press, gdm, Gemini G.E.L. LLC, Sabine Knust, Carolina Nitsch, Pace Prints, The Paragon Press, Polígrafa Obra Gràfica, Singapore Tyler Print Institute, Paul Stolper Gallery and Two Palms.
Public, the outdoor sculpture sector – produced in partnership with the Bass Museum of Art – was curated for the first time by Nicholas Baume, Director and Chief Curator of New York City’s Public Art Fund. Under the theme ‘Social Animals’, the exhibition featured over 30 large-scale sculptures and installations by 24 leading and emerging international artists, including Huma Bhabha, Mark di Suvero, Matias Faldbakken, Sam Falls, Tom Friedman, Jeppe Hein, Thomas Houseago, Alicja Kwade, Richard Long, Charlotte Posenenske, Pascale Marthine Tayou, Oscar Tuazon, and Maarten Vanden Eynde. Set within the cityscape of Miami Beach at Collins Park, this ear’s edition o P lic so ht to turn a grouping of separate works by multiple artists into a temporary community of its own, with works in conversation and in dialog with each other. Artworks by Carol Bove, Olaf Breuning, Aaron Curry, Michelle Lopez, Matthew Monahan, Scott Reeder, Santiago Roose, Ursula von Rydingsvard, Tony Tasset, Mungo Thomson, and Phil Wagner will continue to be present in Collins Park through March 2014 as part of ‘tc: temporary contemporary’, a new initiative in partnership with the Bass Museum of Art. The sector opened to the public on Wednesday night with performances by Olaf Breuning, David Colman, Kate Gilmore, Ryan McNamara, and Mungo Thomson. For more information, please visit: artbasel.com/miami-beach/public.

Curated for the third year by David Gryn of London’s Artprojx, the Film sector included over 70 film and video works by and about artists, drawn from the show’s participating galleries. Framed within eight distinct screening programs and screened over four nights, the program featured works by Nevin AladaÄŸ, Dara Birnbaum, Rineke Dijkstra, Leo Gabin, Joan Jonas, Oscar Muñoz, Rashaad Newsome, Cheng Ran, Yinka Shonibare MBE, Regina Silveira, Mickalene Thomas, and Kemang Wa Lehulere, and the international premiere of new works by Martin Creed and Kehinde Wiley. An estimated 1,000 visitors attended the free screenings in SoundScape Park on the 7,000-square-foot outdoor projection wall of the Frank Gehry designed New World Center. Selected by Zurich film connoisseur This Brunner, the feature film ‘Nan Goldin – I Remember Your Face’ (2013) by Sabine Lidl held its United States premiere, followed by a Q&A with the artist and the director. The evening offered a thoughtful and personal engagement with Nan Goldin, for an intimate audience of film and arts lovers. For more information, please visit: artbasel.com/miamibeach/film.

Bringing together leading artists, museum directors, collectors, and curators, Art Basel in Miami Beach’s daily talks program offered dynamic dialogs between prominent members of the international artworld. The morning Conversations program opened with the Premiere Artist Talk with the American artist Doug Aitken, whose ‘Station to Station’ project sent an art train across America this fall. Further sessions included ‘Public/Private: M se ms Go Glo al’ and ‘Artistic Practice he Artist as echnolo ist’, alon ith a continuation of the series ‘The Artist and the Gallerist’. The afternoon program Salon featured 20 shorter talks, ranging rom ‘Art Mar et vs Art Histor ’ and ‘Ban r pt Cities. ndan ered M se ms Learnin From the Case o the Detroit Instit te o Arts’ to ‘Be ond Post-Blac ’ and ‘Constr ctive Art Criticism in Latin America’. Featured artists in the panels included Abraham Cruzvillegas, Olafur Eliasson, Cécile B. Evans, Naomi Fisher, Mario Garcia Torres, Ellen Harvey, Camille Henrot, Brian Khek, Joseph Kosuth, Sharon Louden, Ry Rocklen, Gabriel Sierra, Frances Stark, Brian Tolle, Erika Verzutti, Allyson Vieira, Jim Drain, Amalia Ulman, and Robert Whitman. Conversations were presented in partnership with Absolut. High-quality videos of all Conversations and Salon talks are available at artbasel.com/miamibeach/talks. Once a ain Miami Beach’s leading museums and private collections timed their strongest exhibitions of the year to coincide with Art Basel in Miami Beach. The Rubell Family Collection, Cisneros Fontanals Art Foundation, the de la Cruz Collection Contemporary Art Space and the Margulies Collection at the Warehouse – opened their collections to international visitors, putting on museum-quality exhibitions timed to the show.

The Pérez Art Museum Miami opened its new Herzog & de Meuron building with exhibitions including ‘Ai Weiwei: According to What?’, and commissioned projects by Yael Bartana, Bouchra Khalili, Hew Locke and Monika Sosnowska. Additional significant museum shows across South Florida included: ‘Tracey Emin: Angel without You’ at the Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami; ‘Piotr laÅ„s i esl’ at the Bass M se m o Art; ‘Phyllida Barlow: HOARD’ at the Norton Museum of Art; and ‘The Birth of Rome’ and ‘Rendering War: The Murals of A. G. Santagata’ at the Wolfsonian-FIU.

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Post-Release: Hublot & Hebru Brantley Partner for Art Week Events at Boutique and Star Island

PRESS RELEASE:
Luxury Swiss watchmaker, Hublot, participated in this year’s Art Week Miami with famed Chicago-based artist, Hebru Brantley, known for his unique art style that draws from pop culture icons and themes from his childhood in the 1980’s. The artist is transformed Hublot’s Bal Harbour Boutique with a special art installation that was on display at the boutique from Tuesday, December 3 through Sunday, December 8.

During a private cocktail at the Bal Harbour Boutique on Friday, December 6, Brantley presented and donated an original work to Tracy and Alonzo Mourning to auction at a later date with proceeds benefitting Mourning Family Foundation. The reception featured champagne from Moet, passed hors d’oeuvres, art work from Brantley and several limited edition timepiece collections on display.
In conjunction with the art installation, the boutique unveiled and displayed for the first time in Miami, “Shawn Carter by Hublot” timepiece designed in collaboration with Jay Z. This timepiece collection is limited to 250 numbered pieces in black ceramic and 100 numbered pieces in 18k yellow gold, and both timepieces have a cutaway dial depicting the Shawn Carter logo. At last year’s Art Basel, Brantley made a huge splash and attracted the attention of several high-profile and celebrity art collectors, including a painting purchased by Jay-Z. Additional limited edition series’ displayed also included the Ferrari collection, the recently launched Big Bang Caviar “Lady 305” series and Big Bang UNICO timepieces.

Following the event at the boutique, select clients and guests of Hublot and Haute Living magazine, along with Hebru Brantley, were invited to a private dinner and after party on Star Island. The seated dinner, catered by celebrity chef, restaurateur and television personality, Todd English, included a live auction, a toast from Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot, Rick De La Croix, representing Hublot in the Americas and Kamal Hotchandani, CEO with Haute Media Group.

The after party featured a special Dom Perignon Champagne and Caviar lounge with free-flowing champagne and a display of Hublot’s Big Bang Caviar timepieces, a display of Hublot’s Ferrari timepiece collection and music by DJs Trey Smith and Michelle Pooch.

The after party event was attended by many clients and friends of the brands, including: Stephen Dorff, Lenny Kravitz, Eva Longoria, Jared Leto, Tracy and Alonzo Mourning, Lenny and Lisa Hochstein, Jeremy Shockey, Kenny Burns, Lea Black, Domingo Zapata, Loren Ridinger, Serena Williams, Jill Zarin, Alicia and Mike Piazza and more!

Hebru Brantley has received significant praise and support from several A-list celebrity friends and entertainers. His art explores personal or cultural memories and depict a range of political and social issues with a focus on optimism and the possibilities of youth. Brantley has exhibited in San Francisco, Atlanta, Miami, Seattle, Los Angeles, New York and solo shows in Chicago. He was the winner of the Redbull Curates Chicago contest, created the Lollapalooza poster for the 25th anniversary of the festival in 2011 and has been commissioned by Skyy Vodka, Nike and Tyra Banks.

Last month Hublot opened its 10th boutique in the United States in the Houston market with a ribbon cutting ceremony and appearance by Scuderia Ferrari pilot, Felipe Massa. The luxury brand also celebrated its two-year partnership with Ferrari and launched a special edition Big Bang Caviar “Lady 305” timepiece series in Miami.

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A Sweet Taste Of Things To Come at Metropolitan By Como, Miami Beach

A Sweet Taste Of Things To Come at Metropolitan By Como, Miami Beach

PRESS RELEASE
Master Chocolatier and Pastry Extraordinaire, Chef Emanuel Alves, provides a sneak peak of his delightful dessert temptations being selected for the menu at the highly anticipated new luxury boutique hotel in Miami Beach

The world class French-Portuguese born Pastry Chef Emanuel Alves, graces the kitchen at Parrot Cay – the private island destination by COMO Hotels and Resorts on the Turks and Caicos Islands – as if he was anywhere in the world. Becoming one of today’s youngest pioneers on the dessert counter has earned him the adoption by one of the most prestigious hotel brands in the world.

The clientele at the award-winning sanctuary where Chef Emanuel resides aren’t your usual travelers or everyday vacationers. They’re the most worldly, experienced and discerning voyagers whose expectations can only be exceeded by a hospitality group worthy of being awarded a total of 3 Michelin Stars and the title of Best Hotel in The Americas by Conde Nast for its signature brand of private island retreat. That is why one of Europe’s most talented dessert sculptors has been flown-in to the Caribbean especially to carve out his decadent creations for this special group of island residents that often includes Hollywood royalty.

Chef Emanuel’s skilled proficiency in the innovation of cream and chocolate artistry has earned him the title of COMO’s Master Chocolatier, and he is now known for being the company’s leading pastry chef. His creativity and flawless attention to detail gives him a superior edge when producing his diverse portfolio of desserts. Alves became a specialist in macaroons after perfecting the technique in Spain with the French Chef Nicolás Serrano, at the “Ecole du Grand Chocolat Valrhona”, under the direction of Frederic Bau. However, his talents are wide reaching and span the entire periodic table of gelatin based fare. Some of the few, but most popular specialties by Chef Emanuel include: Milles Feuilles of Chocolate and Mascarpone Cheese with fresh berries; French toast with atomized fruit and Crème Brûlée ice cream; Blackberry Tart and roasted spicy pineapple with Passion Fruit ice cream; Opera Bricks with confit pears and nutmeg ice cream; Parsley macaroons and pepper Chocolate truffles, and signature delicacies such as the “Buche de Nöel Glacée,” “Opera Cake,” “Petits Fours,” “Sybarite Verrine,” and one of his most popular trophy plates for an end-of-meal table conversation, the delectable “Moon Rocks.” Chef Emanuel formulates a distinguished composite of Dessert DNA within his own secret recipes that keep patrons guessing while craving for more of the addiction his sweets provide. Chef Emanuel creates a fusion of flavors that collide when unleashed and his versatile use of cream, chocolate, fruits and berries bring a complexity to the palate that very few dessert connoisseurs have experienced.

Alves started his profession after acquiring his “Certificate d’Aptitude Professionnelle” (CAP) in pastry art, as a Chocolatier Confiseur Glacier, at the European culinary school, CEPROC. Following his studies as a pastry chef and dessert artiste, his first professional steps in the corporate world began in Paris at the five-star Hotel Concord Lafayette, within the creperie “Chez Imogene,” one of the most respected in Paris. Years later, he returned to Spain and worked at the luxury pastry house known as “Vait” in Madrid, prior to a period at one of the country’s best French pastry restaurants, “Moulin Chocolat.”

In 2009, Alves joined the five-star luxury Hotel Villa Magna in Madrid, as a pastry chef, and with his experienced skill set in classic pastries, he became one of the industry’s best. In January of 2013, Alves continued his career after being head-hunted by the award-winning hospitality group, COMO Hotels and Resorts, for a position as head pastry chef at the celebrated Ametsa with Arzak Instruction – a recently awarded one Michelin Star restaurant within The Halkin hotel in London’s Belgravia. Alves is currently the resident pastry chef at the award-winning Parrot Cay by COMO private island resort in the Turks and Caicos.

“For me, the art of pastry is to mix the components, so that the quality, colors and textures of the prime ingredients allow the flavors to emerge,” says Alves. “Each element in the process must have its own role, whereby a simple macaroon or truffle becomes a complete experience. The pleasures in life come in small bites and a dessert should allow the consumer to recognize that when a flavor melts in the mouth, they are passionately discovering new interpretations of the traditional technique in French pastry. The presentation and taste must be in harmony for a dessert to become an object of desire.”

Most of the creations by Chef Emanuel have become a staple on the dessert menu by COMO Hotels and Resorts in its properties worldwide, and guests will be able to experience his art form on the menu at The Traymore restaurant inside the new Metropolitan by COMO, Miami Beach from December this year.

Buche de Noel Glacee[3]

Chef Emanuel Alves[3]

Chef_Emanuel Alves[3]

image (1)

image

Milles Feuilles of Chocolate_Mascarpone Cheese_Berries[3]

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Toys for Boys Exclusive Preview

Toys for Boys Exclusive Preview

PRESS RELEASE

TOYS for BOYS – Miami’s newest luxury boutique and private collection for today’s high net worth individual – gave Miami’s elite clientele a sneak peak of its most extravagant one-of-a-kind artifacts, unveiled from behind closed doors, during the soft opening of its showroom on Friday, November 18th in Wynwood, Miami.

The newly formed company, considered to be the first of its kind in the region, gave Miami’s most influential and affluent audience an exclusive first look at its prestigious collection of art, automobiles and timepieces, while welcoming Linde Werdelin watches and its founder, Jorn Werdelin, to the TOYS for BOYS family during the official inauguration.

“We are pleased to finally be able to open our doors to the world and allow Miami to experience something quite unprecedented,” said the chairman and co-founder of TOYS for BOYS, Rafael Gill. “Over the last six months, we have consolidated our business networks and individual collectors from around the world, to bring the most exclusive and exquisite ensemble of items that have been curated under one roof for the first time. This presentation will continue to grow and we welcome Linde Werdelin watches as our partnering timepiece collection, offering a quintessential luxury brand that encapsulates our unique identity that we reserve for our most deserving clientele.”

Throughout the night, guests enjoyed Krug Champagne as they mingled among the Lamborghini Aventador Roadster, Ferrari F12 Berlinetta and a very rare Spyker Spyder sports car. Extraordinary photo art by Guy Le Baube was on display, together with Coca Cola and Pepsi paintings by surrealist, Claude Charlier, as part of the Pop World Project. Installations included work by Richard Orlinski and Liu Bolin. Linde Werdelin had its display cases full and individual timepieces were shown alongside the vehicles, including the Oktopus II Family; SpidoLite II Black/Gold; SpidoSpeed Rose Gold and the Linde Werdelin Tech Green. Additional items such as TF Tourbillon Cufflinks and Tourbillon Pen were also on display, adding to the diverse showroom portfolio presented by TOYS for BOYS.

Arriving on the red carpet throughout the evening were the Miami HEAT’s Juwan Howard, as well as Jorn Werdelin, Alexis Sarkissian, Roger Mason Jr., Tomas Regalado, John Temerian, Joe Alcantara, Jason Hardi and Pilar Tarrau. The hosts for the evening were TOYS for BOYS co-founders, Rafael Gill and Danilo Diazgranados.

photos credit ‘World Red Eye’

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Press Release: Mary Brickell Village First high-rise luxury condominium is Nine at Mary Brickell Village

NineMaryBrickellNine At Mary Brickell Village Luxury Condominium Under Construction & Slated For May 2014 Completion

The first collaborative effort by industry powerhouses Starwood Capital Group and LYND; Sales led by Fortune International beginning Aug. 2013

MIAMI, FLA (August 2013) – Nine at Mary Brickell Village, a new luxury condominium located in the heart of Mary Brickell Village at 999 Southwest 1st Ave., will include 390 elegantly appointed residential units and rise 34 stories to overlook the neighborhood’s culinary, nightlife and retail scene. Slated for completion in May 2014, Nine at Mary Brickell Village will be brought to life by industry powerhouses Starwood Capital Group and LYND, with sales led by Fortune International. Equity financing for the project is being provided by New York-based BlackRock, on behalf of an institutional investor.

“After a year of planning, we are excited to bring this project to market,” says Michael Lynd, Jr., CEO & Chief Investment Officer of San Antonio-based real estate firm LYND, most recently credited for the highly successful EnV development in Chicago. “Our team is as strong as any in the country and we are excited for the opportunity to deliver a long-anticipated, first-class residential experience to the heart of Brickell. Mary Brickell Village is one of the most unique environments in the country, with its mixture of cultural, dining, shopping, nightlife, and fitness activities, as well as its proximity to mass transit. Our research indicates that these urban locations appeal to a wide variety of households with families, empty nesters, and young professionals choosing to live in this type of 24-hour atmosphere. This is the next generation of living.”

“This is the perfect opportunity to create a premier luxury condominium that embodies the vibrant soul of Miami,” says Ken O’Neill, Senior Vice President of Starwood Capital Group. “We are very excited to be partnered with this talented group of developers and investors with the common goal of creating an iconic residence for the thriving neighborhood of Mary Brickell Village.”
Standing as the only residential tower in Mary Brickell Village, Nine will feature units starting from $300,000. There are 30 available floor plans for units, which will be sold in one-, two-, or three-bedroom formats, and ranging in size from 744 to more than 2,098 square feet (69 to 194 square meters). Residences will boast beautifully appointed kitchens with stainless steel appliances, 9- to 11 foot ceilings, quartz countertops and backsplashes, designer fixtures and hardware, oversized mirrors, spacious walk-in closets, and large soaking tubs.

Nine at Mary Brickell Village will offer a variety of social amenities, including: an expansive one-acre, lushly landscaped recreation deck with pavilions and intimate cabanas; media lounge; pool deck with heated resort-style swimming pool; fitness center equipped with a wide range of Precor equipment including cardio machines with integrated touchscreen televisions; and state-of-the-art videoconferencing room. The pet-friendly project will also include a dog run on the eleventh floor of the building. A secret Zen garden with tranquil landscaped walking paths, intimate seating areas and dining tables will also be featured on the building’s eleventh floor in a one-acre private park dedicated to lounging, socializing and enjoying quiet moments alone. On-site security will be present, as well as concierge services that will include the arrangement of limo and town car transportation, housekeeping, laundry, dry cleaning, personal fitness trainers, poolside massage, and pet care. Covered parking and valet services will also be available.

Owners of Nine at Mary Brickell Village condominiums will enjoy use of the private Grand Bay Club of Key Biscayne, adding private beach club amenities to their already luxurious urban oasis. The Grand Bay Club offers a tropical retreat and access to exclusive oceanfront cabanas with service stations, a poolside tiki bar, a variety of swimming pools, and superb indoor and outdoor dining overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Nine at Mary Brickell Village will be adjacent to the upcoming Brickell CityCentre, a mixed-use complex co-developed by the owners of Bal Harbour Shops, which is expected to include nine acres of upper-tier and premium luxury shopping, restaurants and hotels. Residents of Nine will be offered a mix of nightlife and restaurant options. Nearby destinations include the Four Seasons Hotel, Viceroy, Cipriani, and Katsuya, located in the upcoming SLS Hotel. Elevators will whisk residents down to the epicenter of Mary Brickell Village’s shops and restaurants such as Perricone’s Marketplace, Rosa Mexicano and The Oceanaire Seafood Room, which complement other high-profile restaurants in a neighborhood that is currently experiencing phenomenal growth. Residences will be in walking distance to the Metrorail and Metromover Brickell station, and will have access to Publix Super Market and the L.A. Fitness health club, both located at the base of the building.

“Nine will deliver a unique residential lifestyle experience and, in today’s competitive market, this development reflects a higher level never before seen in the lively Mary Brickell Village,” says
Edgardo Defortuna, President and CEO of Fortune International which will launch sales in August 2013. “We expect the project to be extremely attractive to downtown professionals seeking a high-rise setting in the heart of Brickell and surrounded by authentic Miami attractions.”

Behar Font & Associates, PA, is the architect of record and Nick Luaces Design Associates is the interior design firm.

For more information, please call (877) 675-3166, or visit: www.ninemiami.com.

About Starwood Capital Group
Co-Developer
Starwood Capital Group is a private, U.S.-based investment firm with a core focus on global real estate. Since the group’s inception in 1991, the firm has raised more than $20 billion of equity capital and, through its various funds, has invested $16 billion representing more than $41 billion in assets. Starwood Capital Group currently has $26.3 billion of assets under management. Starwood Capital Group maintains offices in Greenwich, Atlanta, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Chicago and Miami, and affiliated offices in London, Luxembourg, Paris and Sao Paulo. Starwood Capital Group has invested in nearly every class of real estate on a global basis, including office, retail, residential, senior housing, golf, hotels, resorts and industrial assets. Starwood Capital Group and its affiliates have successfully executed an investment strategy that includes building enterprises around core real estate portfolios in both the private and public markets. www.starwoodcapital.com.

About LYND
Co-Developer
Established in 1980 and headquartered in San Antonio, with regional offices in Miami and Denver, LYND is a national real estate company that develops, manages, finances, and invests in multifamily, commercial, and hospitality properties. LYND’s most recent development project, EnV, located in Chicago’s trendy and energetic River North neighborhood, at the time, became its highest-grossing sale. With approximately 35,000 residential units under management, LYND is one of the largest multifamily management companies in the country. www.lyndworld.com.

About Fortune International
Sales and Marketing
Founded by Edgardo Defortuna, Fortune International has raised the bar in high-end real estate throughout South Florida since 1983. In its brokerage division, Fortune boasts more than 1,000 realtors and 11 offices from Key Biscayne to Weston, and numerous international affiliates. In addition, Fortune International is the developer’s choice for exclusive on-site sales, having represented some of South Florida’s most successful projects with thousands of sales to date. The name Fortune International is synonymous with excellence and an unwavering commitment to quality and customer service in the world of luxury real estate. www.fortune-network.com

Read To Learn Books For Free – Encouraging Reading In South Florida

Even though children are reading more than ever and two of the most successful genres in modern publishing are Young Adult and Children’s books, Miami-Dade image002County officials are considering the closing of some libraries. If the Mayor and Commissioners do not want to raise property taxes, then they are looking at closing some libraries as way so save money and raise revenue. In a “worst-case scenario,” the government is looking to close 22 libraries that include: California Club, Opa-locka, Golden Glades, Civic Center Kiosk, Lemon City, Little River, Model City, Culmer, North Shore, Shenandoah, South Shore, Fairlawn, Virrick Park, Country Walk, Concord, Sunset, Lakes of the Meadows, Tamiami, West Kendall Regional, Doral, Hialeah Gardens and Palm Springs North.
This is a problem. Nearly half of Miami-Dade County 3rd graders fail to read at the basic grade level. A new communitywide campaign aims to change that daunting reality. Children not reading well by 3rd grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school.

That is why many institutions in Miami-Dade County have launched initiatives to encourage reading in young children and their parents. The Children’s Trust and The Center for image003Literature and Theatre @ Miami Dade College are partnering to launch Read To Learn Books For Free to inspire a love for reading in communities where children have little access to books. This is part of a larger Read to Learn campaign with the goal of having all children in Miami-Dade County reading at or above grade level by third grade.

Read to Learn Books for Free will make books more accessible to children through strategically placed bookshelves filled with new and gently used age-appropriate books in highly visited locations – such as government agencies, low-income housing sites, and health clinics, just to name a few. Parents and children will be encouraged to take one book home from the shelves to read together. So far shelves have been placed at the Borinquen Medical Center Pediatric Unit, Cutler manor Apartments, Goulds Community Service Center, Joseph Caleb Community Service Center, KidsTown Pediatrics Legion Park Perrine Community Service Center, Wynwood Community Service Center, Miami Children’s Initiative Community Center, Jessie Trice Center for Community Center, North Miami Gardens Community Service Center, image004Catalyst Miami Open Door Health Center, Lotus House, Little Haiti Cultural Center, Glen Meadows Campbell Arms Apartment, Family Court Service.

Book drives will be held all year-round to keep shelves fully stocked at all times with the cooperation of corporate sponsors. The first 5,000 books were donated by Disney through First Book. Donations bins are located at the South Florida Business Journal, Sapient Corp, ZGS Digital, Bello Martinez & Ramirez PA, Toyota of Homestead and the ArtCenter South Florida.

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Miami Foundation Give Miami Day 2013 11/20/13

The Miami Foundation sets official date for Give Miami Day 2013
November 20, 2013
givemiamiday.org

Second annual online philanthropy event to build on 2012’s extraordinary success

In a social-network publicized announcement on givemiamiday.org, The Miami Foundation revealed November 20, 2013, as the official date for Give Miami Day 2013. Last year, Give Miami Day made history as the most active day of philanthropic giving in South Florida. The unique, online giving event provides everyone in the community an opportunity to build a greater Miami through philanthropy. During the 24-hour period between midnight November 20 and midnight November 21, individuals may view online profiles of more than 300 nonprofit organizations serving Miami-Dade County, and make a charitable gift at givemiamiday.org.

“The inaugural Give Miami Day was a demonstration of Miami’s charitable spirit,” said Javier Alberto Soto, president and CEO of The Miami Foundation. “On December 12, 2012, almost 5,000 donors gave more than $1.2 million to 300 organizations building a greater community. Miamians united in their support of a better community for all, investing in our youth, health care, social services and the arts.”

The Miami Foundation will maximize the community’s generosity by matching a percentage of every donation between $25 and $10,000 received on November 20 through givemiamiday.org. Donors can search and give to organizations doing the work they believe is best for Miami-Dade, which makes it easy to support the causes most important to them.

“The Miami Foundation,” continued Soto, “together with a thriving and engaged community, will reignite the new, philanthropic Miami to make Give Miami Day 2013 another milestone for our city.”

To participate in Give Miami Day, nonprofit organizations must serve Miami-Dade County and create a free profile on givemiamiday.org. The profile will allow existing and potential donors the opportunity to see the mission, work and impact of each organization. For more information, please visit miamifoundation.org/givemiamiday.

Established in 1967, The Miami Foundation has helped hundreds of people create personal, permanent and powerful legacies by establishing custom, charitable Funds. With foundation expertise, Fundholders have fostered the arts, awarded scholarships, championed diversity, taught kids to read, provided food and shelter for the hungry and homeless, and more. More than $150 million in grants and scholarships has been awarded in the Foundation’s 45-year history. Today, the Foundation is steward to more than $160 million in charitable assets. For more information about The Miami Foundation, visit miamifoundation.org.

TAYB: Thomas Armour Youth Ballet raised $18,961 in the inaugural Give Miami Day.  The funding has been used to provide training and scholarships for more than 1,100 youth in their program.
TAYB: Thomas Armour Youth Ballet raised $18,961 in the inaugural Give Miami Day. The funding has been used to provide training and scholarships for more than 1,100 youth in their program.
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Photographs from Marchio Ospitalita’ Italiana Award Ceremony at Mia Cucina 5/15/2013

Italian cuisine has always been an important tool for the promotion of Italy and has effectively promoted not only Italian products but also the Italian economy and culture the world over. Italian cuisine is appreciated by Americans and local restaurants serving it are often preferred destinations for a fine dining experience. Thus restaurants have a significant role to play in this promotional exercise and thus it is required that those serving authentic Italian cuisine are recognized.

It is with this purpose that Unioncamere and Assocamerestero in collaboration with Federazione Italiana Pubblici Esercizi and with the support of Istituto Nazionale Ricerche turistiche – ISNART have constituted the certification “Ospitalità Italiana – Ristoranti Italiani nel Mondo” – a seal of quality, to be conferred on Italian restaurants around the world.

The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast (IACCSE) collaborated with the organizers in the selection of local restaurants in South Florida serving authentic Italian cuisine, for the certification and seeking participation of those eligible for the “Premio Ristoranti Italiani nel Mondo”, Italian restaurants in the world award 2010, which is conferred on the best Italian restaurant annually.

The ceremony

Italy’s Ambassador to the U.S., H.E. Claudio Bisogniero, has chosen to attend the Marchio Ospitalita’ Italiana award ceremony on May 8th as his first meeting during his stay in Miami.

H.E. Bisogniero has in fact consigned the seals, together with Hon. Adolfo Barattolo, Consul General of Italy in Miami, to the eleven selected restaurants in Miami at the Mia Cucina Showroom in Coral Gables.

The evening has been a great success, the winners have received their awards along with six restaurants that have been confirmed for the second year in a row. Over 100 guests have attended the ceremony followed by a rich tasting of Italian food and beverages kindly offered by Cibo Wine Bar, deiFrescobaldi, La Suiza Bakery, Salumeria 104, TiramesU, Top Wines Import – La Cacciatora.

2012 – 2013 Winners:

  1. Bellini Italian Bistro
  2. Cibo Wine Bar
  3. deiFrescobaldi
  4. Escopazzo
  5. Il Bolognese
  6. La Locanda
  7. Locanda Sibilla
  8. Quattro – Gastronomia Italiana
  9. Salumeria 104
  10. Sardinia
  11. Sorrisi

 

10 Reasons To Apply For Red Bull Flugtag Miami 2013

10 Reasons To Apply For Red Bull Flugtag Miami

Red Bull Flugtag Miami is returning to Bayfront Park on September 21, 2013.

This year, for the first time in history, it’s five cities on one day across the nation.

Applications are being taken until June 1, and fans can apply to fly at http://redbullflugtagusa.com

Here are 10 great reasons to apply to participate.
(Please note, we take no credit for these, totally supplied by RedBull, but funny as heck.)
Follow @redbullMIAMI #flugtag for more!

1. Another excuse to bring out your boat to Biscayne Bay.
01boat

2. Your second chance this year to dress like this at Bayfront Park.
02raver

3. It’s safer than driving in Miami.
03traffic

4. You can make a quick escape from the Miami Zombie.
04zombie

5. You’ll have the chance to fly like The Birdman.
05birdman

6. It’s a perfect opportunity for you to get your 15 seconds.
06fame

7. Fly without a TSA rub down.
07tsa

8. Even in full costume, you’ll look more natural than the Real Housewives of Miami.
08housewives

9. It will be easier to get into than LIV.
09liv

10. You’ll get to rep 305 harder than Pitbull.
10pitbull

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NEWS: Gloria Estefan joins The National Trust and Friends of Miami Marine Stadium to Restore Miami Marine Stadium

Gloria Estefan joins The National Trust and Friends of Miami Marine Stadium to Restore Miami Marine Stadium

gloria-stadium-architect-twoEstefan will serve as “Voice of Miami Marine Stadium” as Miami City Commission considers approval of a new site plan for the stadium

Washington (May 8, 2013) – The National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Friends of Miami Marine Stadium are pleased to announce that international superstar and Miami’s own Gloria Estefan, a seven time Grammy-winning artist and leading Miami businesswoman, will take a prominent role in the ongoing advocacy campaign to restore the iconic stadium as a centerpiece of cultural life in Miami. Estefan, a Trustee of the National Trust since 2012, will serve as the voice of efforts to preserve Miami Marine Stadium at a time when the Miami City Commission is weighing approval of a new site plan for the stadium.

Estefan will lend her support to the National Trust and Friends of Miami Marine Stadium’s ongoing campaign to preserve the stadium by appearing in public service announcements, sharing information about the campaign with her followers on social media, and appearing in print and video materials supporting the structure’s restoration. On April 24, Estefan participated in a photo shoot at the stadium with influential Miami artist/photographer Carlos Betancourt, whose work will grace the campaign.

“Miami Marine Stadium is a beautiful, one-of-a-kind place, and I am thrilled to be able to join the National Trust and the Friends of Miami Marine Stadium to help restore it to its former glory,” Estefan said. “As someone who once had the honor of performing at the stadium, I can attest to the fact that it is a completely unique place, and I know thousands of Miami residents feel the same kind of personal connection to the stadium.”

“The stadium reflects the diversity of South Florida. It was designed by a young Cuban-American architect, and has played host to artists from Jimmy Buffett to Sammy Davis Jr., as well as boat shows and many other events. We look forward to the day when this spectacular place is once again a thriving center of cultural life for people in South Florida.”

The campaign to preserve Miami Marine Stadium faces a critical milestone this spring, when the Miami City Commission will vote on a comprehensive site plan allowing the Friends of Miami Marine Stadium to continue their restoration efforts. Two of the five city commissioners have already voiced their support for the reuse plan. Members of the public can urge the City Commission to support the stadium’s site plan by visiting the National Trust’s website at http://bit.ly/miamimarine

The National Trust for Historic Preservation named Miami Marine Stadium one of America’s National Treasures in 2012. National Treasures are endangered places of national significance where the National Trust is committed to a long-term effort to preserve a place and shepherd its return to active use. The Friends of Miami Marine Stadium, an all-volunteer group, has been working to save the one-of-a-kind structure since 2008. The stadium was also named one of the National Trust’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in America in 2009, and was named to the World Monuments Fund Watch List in 2010.

In October, Miami Marine Stadium will be the focus of a special exhibit at the Coral Gables Museum. Titled Concrete Paradise: The Miami Marine Stadium, it will be the first-ever museum exhibit devoted exclusively to Miami Marine Stadium – past, present and future.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a privately funded nonprofit organization, works to save America’s historic places. www.PreservationNation.org

Friends of Miami Marine Stadium (FMMS), a not-for-profit organization, was founded in 2008 to save and restore the Miami Marine Stadium, which was built in 1963 and shuttered in 1992. FMMS’s plan not only will renovate the majestic, architecturally iconic structure, but also create a waterfront marine stadium park as a public space for concerts, triathlons, boat races, festivals, spectacles, and community events. FMMS’s plan will be topped by adding a state-of-the-art maritime center, which has already received a pledge of support from the Antique Boat Museum of Clayton, New York, to raise $7 million for a satellite maritime museum to be housed there. Despite more than 20 years of vandalism and neglect, the 6,500-seat stadium built of poured in-place concrete is structurally sound and is considered an engineering marvel now studied internationally. FMMS awaits final approval of their site plan from the Miami City Commission before fundraising efforts can begin. In-depth information can be found at www.marinestadium.org

LOOK OUT FOR AN EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT FROM SOUL OF MIAMI COMING SOON!

Photo credit: (c)Carlos Betancourt Inc.

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News: Miami Foundation 2013 Community Grants Program Now Accepting Applications – Deadline February 7, 2013

PRESS RELEASE

The Miami Foundation set to award more than $1 million in 2013 Community Grants Program

– Pre-proposal applications now being accepted on miamifoundation.org–

2013 Community Grants program
DEADLINE FEBRUARY 7, 2013
In their signature program for awarding dollars to nonprofits, The Miami Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2013 Community Grants program. Established in 1967, the program invests in quality and innovative organizations that strive to build a greater Miami. The Foundation will review pre-proposals and invite selected organizations to complete full proposals. The deadline to submit a pre-proposal is Thursday, February 7, 2013, by 4 p.m. Last year, the Community Grants program awarded more than $1 million to support 62 nonprofits in Greater Miami.

“These grants are made possible by generous philanthropists in our community and allow us to address emerging needs throughout Miami,” said Javier Alberto Soto, president and CEO of The Miami Foundation. “From youth and homeless programs to the arts and social services, the causes supported are as diverse as Miami-Dade’s community. We invite all local nonprofits that share our vision for a better Miami to apply.”

2013 Safe Passage Grant Program
DEADLINE FEBRUARY 13, 2013
Pre-proposals for the 2013 Safe Passage grant program are also being accepted and are due by Wednesday, February 13, 2013, by 4 p.m. Safe Passage grants support nonprofits that help young people make the challenging transition from foster care to living independently. These grants, totaling $200,000, are made possible through the generosity of the DadeFund, an endowment established by Hugh Westbrook and Esther Colliflower in 1992.

Guidelines and pre-proposal applications can be found on The Miami Foundation’s website at miamifoundation.org in the “Community” section. For additional information, please contact Marianne Maduro, senior program officer, at 305-357-2087 or mmaduro@miamifoundation.org.

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News: Knight Foundation Announces New Gifts Totaling $23 Million for Miami Arts

Knight Foundation Announces New Gifts Totaling $23 Million for Miami Arts

PRESS RELEASE
Support for established institutions and grassroots organizations brings Knight’s investment in South Florida cultural community to $86 million

MIAMI, Dec. 3, 2012—The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation has announced $23 million in new funding for the arts in South Florida. The support brings Knight Foundation’s total investment in South Florida’s diverse and dynamic cultural community to $86 million in six years.

Knight’s initiative supports both established institutions and grassroots organizations as a way to engage South Floridians and weave culture into people’s everyday lives. It includes funding for key arts institutions, and for the continuation of the Knight Arts Challenge, a contest open to the entire South Florida community that for five years has allowed artists to experiment and innovate even through a weak economy.

“The arts not only inspire and challenge, they help create the shared experiences that connect people to one another and the places they live,” said Alberto Ibargüen, president of Knight Foundation. “The success of our earlier initiative in Miami has encouraged us to expand to Philadelphia and Detroit and, now, to take it to the next level in Miami.”

The Miami announcement follows a recent, $19.25 million Knight Foundation investment in the Detroit arts scene, backing the cultural initiatives that are helping shape the future of that city.

In South Florida, the investment includes:

Support for leading cultural institutions ($14 million). Funding will engage and inspire audiences in new ways:
Miami City Ballet ($5 million): In its 28 years, the ballet has earned a national reputation. New funding will help the ballet increase its outreach and add new works to its repertoire, including new commissions.
The Wolfsonian-FIU ($5 million): The museum holds one of the most important collections of art and design objects from the modern era. With this new funding, The Wolfsonian will develop dynamic programming to engage South Florida residents and build greater access to its online collection. 
Cleveland Orchestra ($2 million): The organization that has become Miami’s winter symphony expands its subscription season to four weekends of concerts and significantly increases its educational outreach programs to students.
Arts education ($1 million): Miami artists often begin their careers at one of two schools, the Design and Architecture High School and the New World School of the Arts. To expand the horizons of the next generation, new funding will send students on cultural field trips to New York City and Europe.
Borscht Film Festival ($500,000): The homegrown festival has put Miami into the national conversation on independent filmmaking, with works shown at 40 international film festivals. New support will help the festival expand its efforts and create more “only in Miami” stories.
Miami International Film Festival ($500,000): The festival helps make the city a destination for first-class cinematic creations. Knight Foundation will further the expansion of Ibero-American film through awards at this annual event.

Continuing the Knight Arts Challenge contest ($9 million) – Each year, the challenge asks everyone in South Florida for ideas to enhance the South Florida arts. The contest has just three rules: Projects must be about the arts; take place in or benefit South Florida and match Knight’s funding.

The best ideas receive Knight Foundation funds. Anyone can apply: the challenge purposefully seeks out nontraditional grantees. In fact, 6,601 ideas have been received over the past five years. More than half of these ideas came from individuals, businesses, and small organizations that don’t have 501(c)(3) non-profit status.

With Knight Foundation’s new commitment, the contest will offer funding to organizations of all sizes – from businesses to individual artists – through 2015.

Knight Foundation is extending the contest because of its success: A new, independent evaluation of Knight Foundation’s impact found that the challenge has helped fuel Miami’s cultural scene. In particular, the challenge has helped small projects with an entrepreneurial spirit take shape. For example:
A newly created art-book publishing house, [NAME] Publications, has sold books about Miami artists nationally.
An internationally recognized visual artist, Naomi Fisher, is hosting Weird Miami Bus Tours that take visitors to little-known local haunts.
The Borscht Film Festival’s shorts have been shown at SXSW in Austin (four short films in 2012 alone) and the Sundance Film Festival.
Additionally, prior funding has brought cutting-edge exhibitions to North Miami’s Museum of Contemporary Art, supported a new media program that includes the signature “Wallcasts” at the acclaimed New World Symphony campus, and will bring every Miami-Dade third grader annually to the soon-to-open Perez Art Museum Miami on the downtown waterfront.

“Miami’s creativity is limitless, Knight Foundation’s arts initiative and its Knight Arts Challenge have acted as its conduit – pulling the best ideas out of the city’s most creative thinkers, and helping them flourish. In a truly creative town like Miami, everybody should be able to participate, to dream and to ultimately see their passions through to reality,” said Dennis Scholl, Knight Foundation’s vice president for arts.

For more information about Knight Foundation’s arts program, visit KnightArts.org.

About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
Knight Foundation supports transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, advance media innovation, engage communities and foster the arts. The foundation believes that democracy thrives when people and communities are informed and engaged. For more, visit knightfoundation.org.

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DWNTWN Art Days Official Video

On September 7 and 8, 2012, DWNTWN ArtDays was the first collective two day arts and culture event spanning Downtown Miami. This event included not only exhibitions, exclusive art tours, artists open studios, it also featured outdoor performances, a bike ride, a kickball match and last but definitely not least a dedicated arts and culture trolley for easy access to all of our arts and culture venues.

Official video produced by the Miami DDA
[tubepress video=”pE2R8g1YZo4″]

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Capponi Group to Help Miami Rescue Mission in Time for Holidays

Capponi Group to Help Miami Rescue Mission in Time for Holidays

capponiAs the Miami Rescue Mission gears up to feed thousands during the Thanksgiving holiday, Michael Capponi, Chairman of Capponi Construction Group, LLC, and Miami Rescue Mission announced on Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2012, its recent partnership for the expansion of the Men’s Center Annex. Notables in attendance at the press conference included:  Capponi Construction Group President and CEO Kenneth J. Gross; Miami Beach Vice Mayor Michael Gongora, General Sales Manager of Clear Channel Communications Gary Reyes; Miami Rescue Mission’s President Ron Brummitt, Development Director Marilyn Brummitt, and Board Director Carlos Acosta.
 
Capponi Construction Group will increase capacity by adding 78 beds and complete the expansion of the Miami-based homeless shelter, giving the new building at 2031 NW 1 Ct. an avant-garde look and feel. Kobi Karp Architecture and Interior Design, Inc. is the project’s architect and design firm.
 
South Florida-based entrepreneur and philanthropist Michael Capponi has a long history of leading humanitarian initiatives, focusing his efforts on supporting Miami Rescue Mission’s aim to feed, house and provide services to the local homeless community. In 2008, proceeds from Capponi’s birthday fundraiser benefitted the Miami Rescue Mission, and other non-profit organizations. The following year, Capponi contributed a new health clinic for the homeless, sponsored the Great Thanksgiving Day Banquet, and donated a vehicle named Hope Mobile to the Miami Rescue Mission, for which he serves as an Advisory Board member. Capponi is Chairman of Capponi Group Corp., an assemblage of companies that specialize in the construction, entertainment and nightlife industries, as well as the revitalization of Haiti. Founder of the Haiti Empowerment Mission (www.haitiempowermentmission.org), Capponi has been a driving force in rebuilding Haiti through direct aid to its residents.
 
The Center for Men at Miami Rescue Mission offers a comprehensive, eight to fourteen month residential program for men who suffer from the deeply challenging problems of chronic homelessness; most often caused by chemical abuse or addiction, medical and mental issues, illiteracy, or lack of adequate job skills.

About Capponi Construction Group, LLC
In 2010, Michael Capponi partnered with President and CEO Kenneth J. Gross, former Senior Project Executive of the WCI Tower Division, Strategic Operations Partner and Board Member Todd C. Pennington, former Executive Vice-President of Bovis Lend Lease, and Executive Vice President of Construction Robert Wrieden, former Vice-President of the WCI Residential Division, to create Capponi Construction Group LLC, a Florida licensed general contractor (CGC045327). Together they have a combined total of over 90 years of industry experience and have built properties valued over $23 billion dollars in South Florida. Capponi Construction Group’s professionals average over 20 years in the industry and all have the hands-on experience necessary to successfully meet the challenges inherent in constructing multiple building types, including new construction and renovation of significant private residences, estates, high-end commercial projects, historic rehabilitation and construction of new hotels, condominiums and shopping centers.  Since 2010, Capponi Construction Group, LLC, has completed multiple building types, including new construction, renovations and the historic rehabilitation of private residences, estates, condominiums, high-end commercial projects, shopping centers and hotels. For more information on Capponi Construction Group, LLC, please contact (305) 695-4410 or visit www.capponiconstruction.com.
 
About Miami Rescue Mission
Miami Rescue Mission, Inc. (MRM) is a charitable faith-based organization providing spiritual, physical, and social services to the poor and needy; including homeless men, women, and children since 1922. As a faith-based organization, we operate with Christian and charitable values and provide our services to all without regard to race, faith, age or gender. The Mission also operates its Broward Outreach Centers in Hollywood and Pompano Beach. www.miamirescuemission.com.

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Burgerliscious – The Second Course

by Ari Kane (@Aricurian) & Daniella Veras (@_DaniMiami)

Burgerlicious, living up to its catchy name, was truly defuckinlicious. This scrumptious soiree was held outdoors at the Ponce Circle Park in Coral Gables.  The beautiful balmy winter night was ideal for this epicurean grilling forgy (food orgy).  The crisp, cool weather gave South Floridians a chance to don their finest skiwear while New Yorkers rocked their “You Call This Cold?” t-shirts.  This venue, unlike past burger shindigs, did not leave the attendees smelling like the Eau de Ronald McDonald.  Over 20 competing restaurants, Sam Adams Beer, Naked Grape Wine and Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream were being served to the beat of cover band, Mad World. The VIP bar was stocked with delectable Seasons 52 mini desserts (heavenly pecan pies) and limitless Jack Daniels Tennessee Whisky and Tennessee Honey.

The “Best in Bun” was awarded to Shula’s 347 Grill for its caramelized onions, double gruyere cheese, garlic mayo and crushed garlic croutons burger while the “People’s Choice Award” went to The Dome for its barbecued infused cheeseburgers served with white cheddar, arugula, tomatoes, grilled onions and spicy mayo.

While those were solid offerings, the top two burgers that we devoured were hand-crafted by Pincho Factory and Seasons 52.  Pincho had a brisket patty that was soaked in brown sugar IPA beer with Havarti cheese and onions.  This culinary concoction was an utter delight and whose memory still induces a mouth-watering Pavlovian reaction.  Season’s 52 chose a healthier route to reflect its restaurant’s message and served up a turkey burger with crispy onions, spicy mayo and chili served on a decadent butter toasted make-you-challahhh roll.  Hands down, the best turkey burger we’ve ever had.

Honorable mentions include Rok Burger for its juicy Kobe burger with brie, BBQ bourbon bacon jam, on a homemade bun;  The Bar’s superb lager braised short rib, crispy onions, apple slaw and finger-lickin’ Jack Daniels sauce; and CRAVE Restaurant‘s savory pork and beef sliders.

The event was a deliciously fun, filling and reasonably priced ($50) foodie treat that will definitely have us returning for next year’s third course.

 

 

 

Sunset Harbour Shops and Garage Opening

PRESS RELEASE:

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Sunset Harbour Shops and Garage Opening on Tuesday, October 16th, 2012

Miami Beach Real Estate Developer Scott Robins, partner Philip Levine and Miami Beach Mayor; Matti Herrera Bower, The Miami Beach City Commission & Interim City Manager; Kathie G. Brooks announced the opening of SUNSET HARBOUR SHOPS & GARAGE in Miami Beach with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday morning.

This beautiful retail & garage development represents a public/private partnership between the Robins Group and the City of Miami Beach. Designed by world renowned Architectonica, the project is located at 1900 Bay Road (between 18th & 20th Street) in the very hip and trendy Sunset Harbour district of Miami Beach. Together with their other holdings in Sunset Harbour, The Robins Group has over 60,000 square feet of newly constructed retail and restaurant space.

Over 15 new establishments have either opened or will open in the coming months. They include Emack & Bolio’s Ice Cream, Eberjey Lingerie, Tequizlan Restaurant & Tequila Bar, Lucali Pizzeria from Brooklyn, Splendor Restaurant, Panther Coffee, Icebox Café, Sunset Clothing Co., Threadcount, True Loaf Artisanal Bakery, Jugo Fresh, Peace Love World, Blush, Footworks, and Frankie Boutique amongst others!

The 4 level city owned public garage located directly above the retail shops provides over 460 parking spots for guests with short term self-parking rates at just $1.00 per hour. A wide pedestrian breezeway connects Bay Road & Purdy Avenue, allowing people to easily circulate throughout the retail shops and restaurants. The garage serves the entire Sunset Harbour district with its vast array of neighborhood establishments as well as major destination businesses such as the newly constructed Fresh Market, Publix, and Office Depot.

About Scott Robins:
Scott Robins is the founder of Scott Robins Companies, Inc. and SRC Properties LLC, (“SRC”). Since 1988, Mr. Robins has grown his companies into a mid-size, vertically-integrated real estate development firm, specializing in development, construction, leasing and management of commercial property. Most of the property Mr. Robins owns and manages is located in the famous Art Deco District of Miami Beach (“South Beach”) and Downtown Miami. His properties consist of office, retail and residential space in prime locations and represent some of the most noteworthy real estate in the area. His professional accomplishments have been awarded with Certificates of Appreciation Public Service Awards by the City of Miami Beach; Historical Revitalization Award by the Miami Design Preservation League; Award for Excellence in Architecture for a Contractor by the American Institute of Architecture; and Award for Public Service from The Women of Tomorrow.

About Arquitectonica:
Arquitectonica is an internationally recognized architectural firm headquartered in Miami, FL. The firm’s work has been featured in nearly 3,000 national and international publications such as Time, Newsweek, Life, Fortune and Business Week, as well as numerous professional journals such as Architectural Record, Progressive Architecture, Architectural Design, Domus, Global Architecture, L’Architecture D’aujourd’hui, Abitare and Häuser.
For additional information please visit: http://sunsetharbourshops.com

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Taste of Peru 2012 Press Release

Miami, Florida-September 20, 2012. Taste of Peru 2012 unquestionably the most important Gastronomic Festival in the United States launches its 3rd Annual Gastronomic Festival. TASTE OF PERU 2012 has been recognized as one of the most important culinary demonstrations of the United States and its organized every year by the Peruvian American Chamber of Commerce of South Florida (PACCSF). This unique event will be held from 9th thru 11th of November at the world renowned Miami Airport Convention Center (MACC).

The Peruvian American Chamber of Commerce of South Florida’s prime objective is to promote in Miami (So. Florida), Peru’s cuisine, tourism, trade opportunities and culture. This Event is co-sponsored by the Consulate of Peru in Miami, Marca Perú, Sierra Exportadora, Taca Airlines, Cristal – Cuzquena and Goya Foods among other prestigious organizations.

Peru’s Ambassador to Washington Harold Forsyth, “Padrino of Taste of Peru 2012” will cut the ribbon at the Grand Opening Ceremony. “I’m deeply humbled to have received this honor bestowed on me by the Peruvian American Chamber of Commerce of South Florida”. “We certainly encourage and support any initiative to promote the commercialization of our Peruvian products and of course the culinary art of Peru” proudly commented Peru’s Ambassador to Washington DC, Hon. Harold Forsyth.

Taste of Peru 2012 will feature local restaurants from Peru to delight our palates with the best of Peruvian cuisine. Local area restaurants from like El Chalan, Chalan on the Beach, Aromas del Peru, Divino Ceviche, Goyo Pollo, Mixtura, Pisco O, Pisco Viejo Tonel, Pisco Don Benedicto, among others will be the key exhibitors of Taste of Peru 2012.

Event venues will include culinary live demonstrations led by famous world renowned Chefs Bocchio, Benoit and Pesaque . there will be “ Pisco competitions”, an attraction that has captivated the attention of bartenders from all nationalities not only from Peru but the United States as well.

Taste of Peru 2012 theme this year will focus on promoting different regions of Peru. The Loreto Region being one of those, has confirmed their participation this year in an effort to promote fruits and vegetables from their region.
“Perú continues to augment its culinary talent thus attracting top quality international attention to their culinary achievements and innovations,” said Maricarmen Sega, PACCSF President. “This is the ideal momento to further contribute to the food chain represented by farmers, exporters, chefs and restaurants of our country”, concluded Ms. Sega.

For more information, please contact the Ms. Melvi Dávila at 786-333-8371 or email info@tasteofperuusa.com

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News: Miami Attractions Month Offers Buy One, Get One Free Admissions and Special Deals at Top Attractions October 2012

Miami Attractions Month Offers Buy One, Get One Free Admissions and Special Deals at Top Attractions
October 2012
www.MiamiAttractionsMonth.com

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) proudly announces the Fourth Annual Miami Attractions Month, set to take place from October 1 – 31, 2012, in which a record-breaking  19 top attractions in Greater Miami will offer buy one, get one free admissions and other special deals.

Now in its 4th year and part of the GMCVB’s Miami Temptations line-up, which offers year-round monthly promotions such as Miami Spa Month (July – August) and Miami Spice (August – September), Miami Attractions will feature one-of-a-kind experiences that can only be found in the destination. Via these amazing discounts, locals and visitors of all ages, will double their fun and have an opportunity to visit historic homes, take a thrilling speedboat ride, perch a parrot on their shoulder, swim with friendly marine life, or tour the southernmost winery in the United States, just to name a few of the many activities offered at Miami’s amazing attractions. 

“In October the weather is cooler and perfect for outdoor activities,” says William D. Talbert III, CDME, President and CEO of the GMCVB. “Miami Attractions Month gives everyone, especially families an opportunity to explore and re-experience local attractions at a fraction of the cost.”

Participant’s confirmed to-date in the Miami Attractions Month program include the Ancient Spanish Monastery, Coral Castle, Deering Estate at Cutler, Dolphin Harbor at Miami Seaquarium, Everglades Alligator Farm, Fruit & Spice Park, History Miami, Island Queen Cruises, Jungle Island, Miami Children’s Museum, Miami-Dade Parks EcoAdventures, Miami Science Museum, Miami Seaquarium, Monkey Jungle, Schnebly Redland’s Winery, Sea Trek Reef Encounter at Miami Seaquarium, Thriller Miami Speedboat, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, and Zoo Miami.

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Wynwood Kitchen & Bar Unveils New Menu

Hamachi Ceviche

South Beach will never cease to attract South Florida’s artistas, fashionistas, film buffs, and foodies, but it’s nice to see that Miami is growing up and offering a variety of neighborhoods for those who seek out culture…and great food. These days Americans and Miamians are thinking about about food in ways previously unimagined, and any new ‘hood or district that plans on attracting Miami’s culture-seekers are almost compelled to offer good places to eat. Wynwood Arts District has already been drawing in locals and tourists, alike, for years with its rows of contemporary art galleries amid a gritty grid of warehouses that manages to retain a somewhat edgy, young, and pre-gentrified vibe. Previously devoid of even a place to grab a cup of coffee, Wynwood now offers two independent (and very good) coffee bars, several watering holes, and a handful of good eateries like Wynwood Kitchen & Bar.

Having debuted during Art Basel 2010, Wynwood Kitchen & Bar quickly became the place to dine while visiting the galleries in Miami’s arts district. The restaurant’s doors are located right next to the famous Wynwood Walls – a collection of murals and courtyards that is better experienced than explained – and the restaurant’s exteriors, including its al fresco dining, seem to be halfway incorporated into the art installation. Even graffiti artist Shepard Fairey’s politically-charged black, red, and white murals that occupy a full “Wynwood wall” are reiterated inside the restaurant’s bar, which is plastered with the artist’s signature posters. Wynwood Kitchen & Bar feels as if it is part of Wynwood and was born out of the creative energy that hums throughout the entire district, rather than being a restaurant that was just plopped into a row of art galleries.

Executive Chef Miguel Aguilar’s cuisine also feels like something that would just come organically out of Miami – a sophisticated menu with an emphasis on small plates that is heavily influenced by Miami’s very Latin culture. Dishes like ropa vieja empanadas, queso frito, and black bean soup ring familiar with many Miami natives, and ingredients like Manchego cheese, piquillo peppers, tomatillo, and ají amarillo demonstrate that Chef Aguilar has taken on a pan-Latino approach to his cuisine utilizing ingredients from throughout the Spanish speaking world. The restaurant has recently introduced several new additions to the menu that continue with the global Latino trend, as well as a cocktail list inspired by the many artists whose work graces the walls of Wynwood Kitchen & Bar.

Pork Rillettes

For those who are always on the lookout for interesting cocktails, the artist-inspired cocktail menu offers a selection of libations that are each more intriguing than the other. The Shepard Fairey, a perfectly refreshing choice for the Pisco lover, consists of Pisco Porton, St. Germain, simple syrup, pineapple, and lime mint (a citrusy variety of the herb). The Nunca offers a bit more of a bite from the inclusion of grapefruit juice and Campari to a concoction of Absolut Ruby Red vodka and yuzu. Perhaps the most interesting cocktail that I sampled from Wynwood Kitchen & Bar’s menu is the Barry McGee, containing Bluecoat gin, hibiscus syrup, basil, lemon juice, and soda. The juniper quality of the gin plays very well with the anisette-like basil and tart, floral notes of the hibiscus, while the splash of soda water makes the whole cocktail positively refreshing and ideal for a summer evening.

Chef Aguilar’s new menu items include dishes that offer innovative little spins on classics, which can be most noticed in his Latin Caesar salad consisting of romaine hearts tossed in a chipotle spiked Caesar dressing just hot enough to tickle the back of one’s throat and topped with what appear to be conventional croutons but are, in fact, crispy fried cubes of polenta. A hamachi ceviche, more similar in form to a tiradito, is meltingly tender and comes dressed with an ají amarillo and mango sauce dotted with red and green jalapeño, red onion and cilantro. Lacking in the acidity of a traditional ceviche or tiradito, the sweetness of the mango purée dominates and brings out the subtle flavors of the fish. Choosing to go for a Mexican presentation rather than a Peruvian, Chef Aguilar accompanies his ceviche with house-made tortilla chips, which offer a delightful textural contrast to the softness of the fish. A simpler dish of fried oysters with avocado purée shows the chef’s masterful execution of frying shellfish – the oysters are just cooked through and still silky and tender. The avocado purée, probably inspired by Venezuelan guasacaca, is a perfect dipping sauce, and its creaminess and slight tang beautifully contrast and accentuate the flavors and textures of the oysters.

Thin strips of pork belly rubbed with adobo offer crispy exteriors that give way to a melt-in-your-mouth combination of tender pork and creamy fat – a combination that any pork lover daydreams about. The accompanying lightly seasoned black lentil and diced sweet potato salad provides a bit of starch to soak up the richness, as well as a contrasting coolness and a pleasant mélange of earthy and sweet flavors. A dish of Pork rillettes on the menu can be misleading, although one can see it as a Latino interpretation of a French classic. Diners expecting traditional rillettes will experience a brief moment of disappointment before becoming immediately delighted by this Latin-inspired variation that more closely resembles Cuban lechon asado (tender roast suckling pig). A veritable brick of pulled pork arrives at the table encased in a crispy crust that breaks away easily and is floating in a slightly sweet and smoky roasted tomatillo sauce drizzled with chili oil. It is simply addicting and perhaps the best dish on Chef Aguilar’s new menu.

Artichokes al Padron is a vegetarian dish that is probably my second favorite dish at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar. Fresh cooked artichoke hearts are halved with their tender stems attached and topped with a julienne of roasted mild shishito and piquillo peppers, a creamy aioli, and cotija cheese. The dish very much conveys a Spanish taste and mouthfeel while utilizing ingredients from Asia, Mexico, and the Mediterranean. Another vegetarian dish of Bok Choy Salteado makes for an excellent side dish or can stand alone as an entrée; it offers definite Asian flavors with the addition of julienned carrots, chopped peanuts, cilantro, and Vietnamese nuoc cham.

New desserts at Wynwood Kitchen & Bar can be quite decadent, such as a molten chocolate cake served inside a ramekin and intensely flavored with ancho chile and Mexican cinnamon with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to cut the richness. However, a Latin variation on a tiramisù, aptly called a Latin Misu, is surprisingly light in spite of how heavy it sounds: tres leches, espresso-soaked lady fingers, and lightly torched Italian meringue topping. A white chocolate bread pudding offers a perfect balance between firm and custardy, has a great variation of texture from soft to slightly chewy, and is topped with a lightly tangy guava sauce that pairs so wonderfully with the rest of the dessert.

In our new foodie-driven culture, it’s evident that any great neighborhood needs great places to eat, and Wynwood is no exception. With restaurants like Wynwood Kitchen & Bar, as well as other new eateries and cafés in the area, it’s possible that Miami’s arts district will soon become Miami’s new dining destination.

Wynwood Kitchen & Bar
2550 Northwest 2nd Avenue
Miami, FL 33127
(305) 722-8959
www.wynwoodkitchenandbar.com

photo credits: Brustman Carrino PR

Feeding South Florida Launches Wynwood Wall for Hunger Action Month September 2012

Feeding South Florida Launches Wynwood Wall for Hunger Action Month

Brightly Painted Mural Displays Shocking Facts About Hunger in South Florida; Reflects Efforts of Hunger Action Month, September

Wall

Some of the world’s greatest artists working in the graffiti and art genre are helping the South Florida community to fight hunger. In celebration of Hunger Action Month (September), graffiti artists 3i7, Dism and Elite recently joined forces with Feeding South Florida™ and VSBrooks Advertising in Coral Gables to create a cutting-edge Wynwood Wall in Miami, featuring  alarming facts about hunger in South Florida.

Located on the outside of the building at 2121 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33127, the eye-catching, completed wall features a 88-ft world-class mural that displays bright orange (the color of hunger relief) and other colors and artistic graffiti. The wall will be up indefinitely.

Creating a mural for a nonprofit organization such as Feeding South Florida is a new concept for Wynwood Walls, which, among other things, are inspiring models for the revitalization of abandoned historic communities and must-see destinations for Miami. Wynwood Walls bring the world’s most renowned graffiti and street art artists to Miami.

In an “in-your-face” manner, the wall brings attention to the fact that the face of hunger is no longer only the homeless. It’s those who suffer in silence: children, the working poor, the elderly, handicapped and veterans. On a daily basis, nearly 1 million people in South Florida, including more than 340,000 children, face hunger.

The largest food bank in the state, Feeding South Florida strives to serve those who are food insecure through a local network of approximately 450 other nonprofit organizations in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe Counties.

VSBrooks Advertising, a continued supporter of Feeding South Florida, took the steps to coordinate the creation of the wall with the artists and donated all of the supplies. Diana Brooks, chair of Feeding South Florida’s Board of Directors, is co-founder and managing partner of VSBrooks Advertising.

“This wall is a very progressive way to reach out to the community and let them know what the true facts are about hunger in South Florida,” said Brooks. “Wynwood Walls and the artists have created a striking, real example of how everyone can help the community and join the fight against hunger, especially during Hunger Action Month.”

Hunger Action Month is a call to action to mobilize the public to raise awareness and take action in support of domestic hunger relief. During Hunger Action Month, Feeding South Florida is encouraging South Floridians to do something about it with a variety of events and activities.

Another way that members of the community can easily show their support for Hunger Action Month is to wear orange or go orange digitally on Thursday, Sept. 6, Go Orange! Day.

Feeding South Florida’s local calendar at www.feedingsouthflorida.org provides individuals with many exciting ways to participate in community efforts to end hunger throughout September. For more information about how Feeding South Florida is participating in Hunger Action Month, visit www.feedingsouthflorida.org.

Feeding South Florida™ is a nonprofit organization that empowers other South Florida nonprofit organizations to assist people in need and improve their lives. Feeding South Florida does this by providing food and other grocery products, and by educating and engaging the community to fight hunger and poverty. Through a local network of approximately 450 other nonprofit organizations, Feeding South Florida strives to serve almost 1 million individuals in need, including more than 340,000 children who are food insecure, the elderly, the mentally and physically challenged, veterans and the working poor, in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe Counties with compassion and integrity. Feeding South Florida, the largest food bank in the state, is a member of Feeding America, the nation’s leading domestic hunger-relief charity. In 2011, Feeding South Florida distributed over 30 million pounds of food valued at almost $50 million within the South Florida community. Feeding South Florida’s headquarters is located at 2501 SW 32 Terrace, Pembroke Park, FL, 33023. For more information, please call (954) 518-1818 or visit www.feedingsouthflorida.org.

The Wynwood Walls, conceived by the renowned community revitalizer and place maker Tony Goldman in 2009, has brought the world’s greatest artists working in the graffiti and street art genre to Miami. The world-class murals and spirit of the project continues to attract thousands of people to the Wynwood Walls each year. Among other things, it is an inspiring model for the revitalization of abandoned historic communities and a must-see destination for the city. For more information, visit www.thewynwoodwalls.com .

Finding an After-School Program is Easy with The Children’s Trust 2012 After-School Programs Guide

The Children’s Trust 2012 After-School Programs Guide Available Online and at Winn-Dixie Stores in Miami-Dade County

Direct link to After-School Programs Guide PDF

The Children’s Trust 2012 After-School Programs Guide, offering parents and caregivers free information they need to locate and enriching after-school program for their child, is available online at www.thechildrenstrust.org, and in all Miami-Dade Winn-Dixie stores. Look for them, while supplies last, in specially identified racks near the front of your local store or near the customer service desk. The same information can also be accessed by calling 211, The Children’s Trust Helpline.

The trilingual guide provides a comprehensive overview of available programs, whether or not they are funded by The Children’s Trust. After-school programs help working families by keeping children safe, while inspiring learning. While safety is always a priority, parents should select programs that meet and exceed expectations by providing homework help, enrichment activities and literacy support.

This year’s guide features numerous articles that will help parents select the right program for their child. These include: Selecting the Best After-School Program, Homework and School Help, Playing to Learn, Meet Me at the Library, How to Use the Listings, as well as the actual directory of programs.

Organized by geographic regions and zip codes, the guide’s list of programs includes addresses, contact information, fees, the ages of children served, and brief descriptions of hundreds of locations. The Children’s Trust-funded sites are clearly identified. Programs are operated by mostly non-profit and faith-based organizations, as well as city and county programs. Trust support allows many of these programs to serve families for free or low cost, but once those scholarships are utilized, regular fees may apply.

The Children’s Trust is the largest funder of summer, after-school, and youth development programs in Miami-Dade County, serving more than 50,000 children annually, including programs that serve children with disabilities.

The Children’s Trust is a dedicated source of revenue established by voter referendum to improve the lives of children and families in Miami-Dade County.

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News: ARTLURKER Presents Miami Writer’s Prize 2012

ARTLURKER Presents Miami Writer’s Prize 2012

Deadline: May 4th, 2012
Reception: May 24th, 2012, 7pm til 9pm, Locust Projects

The Miami Writer’s Prize 2012 is open for submissions.
www.artlurker.com/miamiwritersprize

ARTLURKER, a Miami based online publication for the contemporary arts, is proud to announce it is accepting submissions for the third year of the Miami Writer’s Prize, an annual prize that aims to encourage residents of Miami to write about contemporary art and foster accountability for contemporary art discourse through reinforcement of the blogging format.

Eligible entrants may submit one original review of a recent art-related event. The winner, in addition to having their entry published on ARTLURKER.com, will receive an honorary stipend of $800 dollars in return for an eight-post placement as a Guest Blogger on ARTLURKER.com.

This year’s prize is funded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and artist Carlos Betancourt, sponsored by Locust Projects and judged by a panel of preeminent writers/web publishers – Hrag Vartanian (HYPERALLERGIC), Hunter Braithwaite (THEREISNOTHERE), Noah Becker (WHITEHOT MAGAZINE) and Paddy Johnson (ARTFAGCITY).

The Miami Writer’s Prize 2012 is now open for submissions.

Closing Date is May 4th, 2012.

The winner will be announced via www.artlurker.com on May 18th, 2012.

A soiree in their honor will be held at Locust Projects (3852 North Miami Avenue) on May 24th, 2012.

Prize Requirements:
To qualify, entrants must:
•Be over 18 years of age and reside in Miami Dade county
•Have had no more than three pieces of their art writing published in a print publication (previous online publication, except for on ARTLURKER.com, is permitted)
•Email one previously unpublished review of a recent art related event, approximately 800 words in length to writersprize@artlurker.com

Entries must be submitted:
•As a Word (.doc) attachment
•In English (translations are accepted, but this must be acknowledged)
•Without images

Guest Blogging Requirements:
•Posts must be art related
•Author must have first hand experience if writing a review of a recent exhibition or event

About The Judges:
Noah Becker lives and works in Victoria BC, Canada and New York. He is a contemporary artist, musician, curator, and editor-in-chief of Whitehot Magazine. In 2009, Becker was nominated for the Royal Bank of Canada Painting Prize, which toured his work to Musee D’Art De Montreal. Becker’s work has featured in successful solo and group exhibitions in New York, Switzerland, Canada, and Miami, and most recently included in the exhibitions Plank Road and Hunt & Chase at Salomon Contemporary, 6 Degrees of Separation at Claire Oliver Gallery, and Mie Portraits at Freight + Volume.

Hunter Braithwaite founded the Miami-based contemporary arts website thereisnothere.org in August 2011. In addition to running TINT, he is a regular contributor to artforum.com, Whitehot Magazine, and Asian Art News. Before moving to Miami, he lived in Shanghai and did basically the same thing.

Paddy Johnson is the founding editor of Art Fag City. In addition to her work on the blog, she has been published in New York Magazine, artreview.com, Art in America, The Daily, Print Magazine,Time Out NY, The Reeler, The Daily Beast, The Huffington Post, The Guardian, New York Press and writes a regular art column for The L Magazine. Paddy lectures widely about art and the Internet at venues including Yale University, Parsons, Rutgers, South by Southwest, and the Whitney Independent Study Program.

Hrag Vartanian is a Brooklyn-based writer, critic, editor and cultural worker. He is the co-founder and editor of Hyperallergic. He tweets a lot (@hragv), reads even more, likes to look at art, doesn’t call his parents enough and his biggest claim to fame is that he was gay married in Toronto to his publisher, which only goes to prove that sleeping with your boss gets you everywhere.

News: Hertz On Demand Joins Decobike to Provide Miami Beach Residents Another Way to Get Around

Hertz On Demand Joins Decobike to Provide Miami Beach Residents Another Way to Get Around
www.hertzondemand.com
www.decobike.com
www.facebook.com/HertzOnDemand

As an extension of The Hertz Corporation’s launch of Hertz On Demand in Miami Beach, Florida, Hertz On Demand is proud to announce a partnership with Decobike, the Official City of Miami Beach Bike Sharing & Rental program. Decobike and Hertz On Demand represent the greenest and easiest way to get around Miami Beach and the surrounding areas. Both programs encourage locals and visitors to use sustainable, innovative and convenient modes of transportation.

Based in Miami Beach, Decobike is offering Hertz On Demand members one month of free Decobike service. In addition to that, Decobike members that sign up for Hertz On Demand car sharing service will receive $15 in driving credits upon enrollment. The promotion begins on March 1, 2012 and will continue through March 30, 2012.
Hertz On Demand and Decobike share similar values in regards to the concept of green mobility. Both companies offer customers an affordable, simple way to travel while reducing the environmental impact of car ownership. Similar to how Hertz On Demand rents vehicles by the hour, day, or week on a 24/7 basis, Decobike allows for customer to rent a bike 24/7 at any of its locations.

Decobike is the Official City of Miami Beach Public Bicycle Sharing Program. The fleet continues to expand and currently includes a system of 85+ solar-powered bike sharing stations with 1,000 Decobikes. The system is conveniently available to residents and visitors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Since its launch in March of 2011, there have been over 680,000 rides on Decobike. The system which was recently expanded to include all areas of Miami Beach, offers local residents a great value, including “unlimited ride” memberships and an expansive membership rewards program.

Hertz on Demand, Hertz’s global car sharing club, has more than 850 vehicles, 120,000 members and more than 250 locations worldwide, including corporate offices and universities. Hertz on Demand offers a variety of vehicles available for online reservation at competitive rates. All cars are equipped with Eileo® technology, and benefits covered by the hourly rate include gas, insurance, GPS turn-by-turn navigation, 24/7 roadside assistance, 24-hour Member Care Center communication, and 180 free miles per day.

Philanthrofest Unites South Florida’s Not-For-Profits For First Ever Large-Scale Community Event on April 14, 2012

Philanthrofest Unites South Florida’s Not-For-Profits For First Ever Large-Scale Community Event

The free outdoor event will raise awareness for local organizations on April 14, 2012

MIAMI, FL – (March 20, 2012) – PhilanthroFest, the first of its kind outdoor festival showcasing South Florida’s philanthropic organizations, community resources and cultural arts, will take place Saturday, April 14 from noon to 6 p.m. at Midtown Miami’s Greenspace (110 NE 36 Street, Miami, FL 33137).

During the free, large-scale community event, South Florida residents of all ages will have the opportunity to learn about more than 75 philanthropic organizations and resources in a family-friendly atmosphere while enjoying musical performances, local artwork, delicious food and live entertainment.

PhilanthroFest was created with the goal of increasing volunteerism, community engagement and donor investment throughout South Florida. By engaging community partners, PhilanthroFest will deliver a sustainable annual event that helps educate and support South Florida organizations and the community overall.

“In these difficult times, when the federal government is cutting funds for social programs funded by local governments, we have to turn to the community for support,” said City of Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado. “PhilanthroFest 2012 showcases this support.”

In addition to support from City of Miami Mayor Regalado and Miami-Dade County Mayor Gimenez, PhilanthroFest has the support of many notable community leaders and organizations including The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, The Miami Foundation, The City of Miami Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), Catalyst Miami and many others.

The outdoor event is the brainchild of Life Is Art and Miami Crawls, which share years of event production, volunteer management, fundraising and marketing experience.

“PhilanthroFest is something we’ve been dreaming about doing for some time now,” said James Echols, co-founder of Life Is Art and PhilanthroFest; owner of Soul of Miami. “Through Life Is Art and Soul of Miami we have had the opportunity to meet the numerous philanthropic organizations that do phenomenal work throughout the local community and beyond. Bringing all of these groups together for one annual event provides an ideal platform to engage the community, while helping the organizations recruit new volunteers and donors.”

To learn more about PhilanthroFest, its participating organizations and vendors please visit www.PhilanthroFest.com. Follow PhilanthroFest on Twitter and Facebook for important event updates.

###

About Philanthrofest
PhilanthroFest (501(c)3) started by the team behind Miami Crawls and Life is Art. It was designed with the mission to SUSTAIN the South Florida community by encouraging community investment, ENHANCE the outreach of philanthropic organizations enriching the community, ENABLE opportunities for volunteer and donor base growth, PROVIDE social media education and training to enhance brand awareness, and CELEBRATE art, music, dance and fashion. For more information visit www.PhilanthroFest.com.

About Life Is Art
Life Is Art is a south-Florida based non-profit corporation founded in January of 2009 whose mission is to promote and support the arts and the community in south Florida through events and education. They do this primarily through the production of arts events: Art Shows, Fairs, Parties, Showcases, Networkers, Seminars, Workshops and more targeted at supporting south Florida artists and arts professionals. For more information, visit www.lifeisartfest.org.

About Miami Crawls
Miami Crawls is a socially conscious company that engages neighborhood communities, local businesses, and charities through the promotion of organized events for professionals that live, work and play in South Florida. For more information, visit www.miamicrawls.com.

News: The Beacon Council video of Miami Marlins President talk on March 6, 2012

This information is supplied via the Beacon Council:

The Beacon Council releases video of Miami Marlins President
The Beacon Council frequently invites business and community leaders to speak to our members as part of our ACCESS series breakfasts. On March 6, Miami Marlins President David Samson was our guest.

More than 50 people attended, including Channel 10 reporter Todd Tongen and his cameraman, Miami Today reporter Scott Blake and his photographer, and a Channel 7 cameraman. Samson spoke candidly about the issues surrounding the new stadium deal. He did not read a prepared speech and came across forthright. We heard positive feedback from the audience.

What happened next is for a university journalism school to review. One or more misquotes in Miami Today made the story run like wildfire through national media outlets. Channel 10 reporter Will Manso released a clip to set the record straight. The rest of the media wanted the video and apparently could not use it from their “competitor.”

Our hired videographer gave it to us March 8 and we had the press come in to make copies because the 51-minutes-long 20-gigabytes video was too large to post on standard sites, such as YouTube or our website. One by one the press produced their own stories. Thankfully, Vimeo has the capacity to post and share.

Watch the entire video:

Beacon Council Mission: Create jobs for Miami-Dade County residents by helping businesses locate and expand here. We want families and residents in Miami-Dade County to prosper. Help us help others. Will you join us? Call Member-Investors at 305.579.1326

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Miami Escapes Luxury Travel


Miami Escapes Luxury Travel
Top Hotels, Restaurants, Activities
Miami and the Beaches

Miami ESCAPES is the vanguard of unforgettable experiences for the visitor to South Florida. The featured luxurious accommodations, fine restaurants, activities, and retailers are recommended for providing superb services for discerning travelers. Explore and book your hotel, reserve your dinner plans, or plan your next adventure knowing that each of the establishments are amongst the finest in Miami. Reserve online or call us at (281) 8-MIAMI / (281) 846-4264.

Book your travel at www.MiamiEscapes.com

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The Blue Piano Opens For Lunch

The Blue Piano Opens For Lunch

The Blue Piano opens it’s doors for lunch. After much success with the redesigned dinner menu, The Blue Piano welcomes the lunch crowd with an array of tasty new creations by a new director in the kitchen.

The Blue Piano’ s Chef Stan “Strong ” moved to Miami all the way from New York and brought down with him his home style cooking to the Buenavista neighborhood with what he calls “comfort food for the soul ”.

Some examples are: “The Soul Roll ” a grilled wrap filled with fried chicken, sautéed collard greens and black eyed peas; the F alafel Specia l which is a New York style falafel wrap with a Miami twist, a thunder bolt of chili sauce (on the side of course). He’ s also created the “BPB” or Blue Piano Burger, which is a beef burger featuring blue cheese, served on a French croissant bun. And for the vegetarians, the “Beet it ” Salad and The “Philly Cheese Vegge” that’ s like a Philly Cheesesteak but with portabello mushrooms, tofu and bell peppers.

The Blue Piano is Miami ’ s only destination serving up an incredible selection of rare wines and artis an beers alongside an eclectic live musical selection that features chilled out jazz, soulful blues and an ever-changing line up of local artists every night. And with its new menu and lunch schedule, it is now a “foodie” destination for lunch and dinner.

Miami Unites to Fundación Bella – A “Beautiful” Campaign to Fight Breast Cancer

(Miami, Florida) – Mexican photographer, Martin Gavica, is the Founder and President of “Fundación Bella” (Beautiful Foundation), a campaign designed to raise awareness about breast cancer, and educate women on the importance of self-examination for early detection.

Gavica visited Miami during the month of February and scheduled photo sessions in a Brickell studio.  He photographed 208 women representing countries from all over the world, including Canada, US, Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, Uruguay, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay, and Spain to name a few.  To date, he has photographed more than 5,000 women from all over the world.

 Gavica started the campaign as homage to his mother who died 2008 after a 9 year battle with breast cancer.  He has taken the campaign through all the states of Mexico and has also been invited to visit New York, California, Massachusetts, Washington, Texas, Arizona and Minnesota among other states within the U.S. “It’s not just about my mother anymore” – says Gavica – “it’s now about the survivors.  [The campaign] is moving along with its own force, and I’m just going with the flow.”    

To obtain more information about this campaign, please visit http://www.fundacionbella.mx (Spanish website). â– 

 

– Nathalia Y. Bogani – “The Etiquette Girl”

Introducing PhilanthroFest

As you know, we have worked diligently over the past few years to support you and our community. I rarely like to ask for favors, but now I need to ask for your kind indulgence in return as we launch a major initiative to help our community.

I would like to introduce you to our upcoming big project called PhilanthroFest (www.philanthrofest.com).

PhilanthroFest’s mission is to support philanthropy and culture by providing outreach, brand awareness and education opportunities to over 75 philanthropic and cultural arts organizations. PhilanthroFest is a large community festival on April 14th in Midtown Miami, celebrating the South Florida philanthropic and cultural community. Attendees will enjoy music, art, fashion, food and entertainment while learning about various non-profits and community resources that are available to our residents.

PhilanthroFest has the support of Mayor Regalado and the City of Miami. The Miami Foundation is our fiscal sponsor and partner. Catalyst Miami is a participating organization, as well. More organizations are coming on board all the time. It is being produced as a collaboration between Life Is Art/Soul Of Miami and Miami Crawls.

The festival takes place on April 14, 2012 in the middle of the Midtown Miami complex. Each qualifying philanthropic or cultural organization will receive FREE table space to promote their mission. In addition, PhilanthroFest includes an ongoing educational component, assisting organizations in continuing to build their message.

As an annual event and ongoing educational program, PhilanthroFest can mean a lot to our community, helping to build a strong base of services and culture. Mayor Regalado has already come out in support of it, as has the Miami Foundation and the Miami CRA, in addition to other organizations. I invite and encourage your support and participation. For more information, please see the press release.

Sponsorships are available. A PhilanthroFest sponsorship multiplies both the impact and reach of your money. Rather than reaching just one charity, like you would for a normal sponsorship, you reach dozens, helping the community in a big way. Not only that, but each organization will be promoting the event through their own channels, so your name gets out in front of many more people than a traditional charity event. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, please click here.

If you know of any philanthropic or cultural organizations who would like to participate, promotional space is FREE for qualifying organizations, click here to apply.

For any artists that you know, we have an open call for the art show during PhilanthroFest, click here for the call for artists.

Any help you can offer would be most appreciated. I look forward to hearing from you. Click here to contact us directly.

Posted in News   

Knight Arts Challenge Contest Opens For Applications – Submit your best idea 2/21/12 – 3/19/12

Knight Arts Challenge- Submit your best idea!

Such projects now have a home here in town because of the Knight Arts Challenge:
New World Symphony’s Sound and Sight Video series. Sleepless Night Miami Beach. Miami Lighthouse for the Blind. Bass Museum’s TC Temporary Contemporary public art project. AIRIE Encountering art in the Everglades. Miami-Dade County Public Schools Cultural Passport. Little Haiti Cultural Center’s Haitian Heritage Art Project. Florida Grand Opera in unexpected places. Dawntown Architecture Contest. Playground Theatre’s world premiere production of “The Red Thread.” Cuban Museum’s Sweet Home Museo Cubano. Rhythm Foundation’s Big Night in Little Haiti. Karen Peterson’s Inclusive Dance for MDPS students. DDA’s Downtown Miami Concert Series Summer Shows at the Gusman. Noches Tropicales/Tropical Nights free music and dance concerts in Miami Dade Parks. Free Gospel Sundays at the Arsht, Borscht Film Festival. O Cinema, Miami International Film Festival. South Florida Composers Alliance’s The Listening Gallery. Cleveland Orchestra and Miami City Ballet together. Bas Fisher Invitational’s Weird Miami Bus Tours. Seraphic Fire’s Miami Choral project. Peter London Global Dance Theater. City Theatre’s CityWrights training mentorship project. Hannah Kahn Poetry Foundation. Commissioned site-specific contemporary art works at Vizcaya….and so many more.

And all it took was a good idea!

Knight Arts Challenge Contest Opens For Applications
 
Bginning Feb. 21, South Floridians can begin applying for a share of millions in funding through the fourth annual Knight Arts Challenge. The community-wide contest to find the best ideas for the arts in South Florida is sponsored by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

Applications will be accepted between Feb. 21 and March 19, 2012 at KnightArts.org.

There are only three rules for applying: The idea is about the arts; the project takes place in or benefits South Florida; and applicants must find other funding to match the Knight Foundation grant.

Individuals, nonprofits and for profit organizations are eligible to apply.
In just four years, Knight Foundation has invested close to $19 million in projects for the Challenge, which aims to bring South Florida together through the arts. Local arts supporters are doubling that amount with matching funds.

In 2011, the winning ideas included expansion of the Hispanic Theatre Festival, the launching of free concerts downtown and in Miami-Dade Parks, expanding the Artist in Residence program in the Everglades, launching a new dance company and initiating a teen creative writing mentorship project, among other creative endeavors that bring the arts into people’s everyday lives.

“This contest is about innovative ideas, artistic excellence and inspiring our community. The best projects will help weave culture into the everyday fabric of this region.  We want to hear from everyone with a great idea,” said Dennis Scholl, VP Arts/ for Knight Foundation, who leads the initiative.  

Have an idea? Visit www.KnightArts.org through March 2. The two-question application is designed to be simple to attract applicants who aren’t traditional grant seekers.

About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation advances journalism in the digital age and invests in the vitality of communities where the Knight brothers owned newspapers. Knight Foundation focuses on projects that promote informed and engaged communities and lead to transformational change. For more, visit www.knightfoundation.org.

The contest is part of Knight Foundation’s five-year, $40 million Knight Arts initiative, to help bring the S.. FLA community together through the arts. Over the past four years, the Knight Foundation has invested almost $19 million in this community based contest.

Posted in News   

Jeronimo’s Bar Opens South of Fifth

Jeronimo Hirschfeld, visionary businessman and developer, has officially opened Jeronimo’s Bar, a much needed neighborhood bar/lounge that promises to bring a breath of fresh air to the South Beach nightlife scene. Located in the more sophisticated South of Fifth neighborhood of Miami Beach, Jeronimo’s Bar sets out to distinguish itself as the alternative to the loud and boisterous club options currently permeating the area.

Occupying approximately 2,400 square-feet, Jeronimo’s Bar is located in the South of Fifth (SoFi) neighborhood of South Beach at 814 First Street, Miami Beach, FL 33139.
For more information call 305.397.8382 or visit www.jeronimosbar.com.

Discouraged by the lack of diversity in the scene, Jeronimo’s Bar was inspired by Hirschfeld’s desire to create an environment that was warm, inviting and the antithesis of other South Beach destinations. Unlike other venues in the vicinity, Jeronimo’s Bar is a place to bring friends for quality conversation and savory drinks. Modern, minimalist décor and industrial overtones come together to produce a space that is both intimate and welcoming. The maple wood tables and lounge seating play upon classic bar elements while louver wood panels and exposed brick line the walls to generate an open and roomy finish.

“I have lived in the area for several years and recognized a void for a good neighborhood bar that offers a full premium bar and is opened late,” says Hirschfeld. “I found this great location and thought this is the ideal space to create a contemporary and inviting lounge with great cocktails and music for locals in the area. I wanted to create a place where I would want to come and hang-out with my friends.”

Jeronimo’s Bar’s octopus logo is a testament to Hirschfeld’s entrepreneurial spirit, signifying his many interests and business ventures. The symbol also pays homage to the bar’s playful tagline, “Once you’re here…you’ll never leave.” The logo includes a radio tower as well because Jeronimo’s Bar is located behind a local radio station. Subtle branding is frequent throughout the space; there are understated octopus patterns that reoccur across the venue and an original painting depicting an old world underwater diver is situated near the back of the bar. Patrons can enjoy a drink at the elongated custom-made bar, banquettes or lounge seating areas. There is also an old-fashioned popcorn maker at the bar, highlighting the venue’s carnivalesque spirit.

DJ Gunars, Eyal Agai from Pirate Stereo and DJ Ruen have created the music programming for the bar. The musical selections span across the board, offering something for everyone’s taste, incorporating old school hip-hop and funk, new wave and rock & roll.

The cocktail menu features several signature drinks, including: Jeronimo’s Punch: Zu Bison Grass Vodka, St-Germain, fresh squeezed lemon and mint topped with ginger ale; Octopus’ Garden: Death Door Gin, cucumbers, lime slices, sugar and mint; Azucar Morena: Johnny Walker Black, cream soda, brown sugar and lime; and Platino Fizz: Jose Cuervo Platino, crème de cassis and ginger beer. Jeronimo’s also offers a variety of red and white wines, as well as domestic and international beers.

This emerging neighborhood is quickly becoming a destination spot for both locals and tourists alike, offering patrons a refuge from the congestion north of Fifth Street. With its attention to detail, inviting ambiance and premium bar selection, Jeronimo’s Bar is certain to become a favorite among locals in the area, a home away from home. Jeronimo’s Bar is open seven days a week, Monday through Sunday, from 6pm to 4:30am. There is plenty of parking; patrons can choose to self-park or valet. Jeronimo’s Bar will be opening a second location in Brickell later this month.

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Digest Miami Holiday Survival Guide

Digest Miami is celebrating the holidays with the Digest Miami Holiday Survival Guide, composed of mouth watering holiday dishes from some of the city’s leading chefs. Specially created for the Holiday season, this extensive collection features recipes from twelve Chefs, many of whom are James Beard winners or nominees. Since the introduction of Digest Miami, it has garnered the interest of the best Chefs in South Florida and now allows you to step into the kitchen of some of our favorite restaurants.

The Survival guide is a comprehensive step-by-step resource for anyone wanting to create the perfect holiday meal, from appetizers like Chef Michael Shikany’s Foie Terrine, to main courses like Paula DaSilva’s Rack of Lamb and Peter Vauthy’s Standing Rib Roast. The menu also includes side dishes like Chef Paul Griffin’s Asparagus Al Forno, Chef Michelle Bernstein’s Patatas Bravas and Chef Dana Brizee’s Truffle Mac & Cheese. And to add a bit of decadence we’ve included desserts such as Chef Antonio Bachour’s Panna Cotta and Chef Miguel Aguilar’s Bread Pudding. Specialty cocktails from Morton’s Steakhouse and Wynwood Kitchen complete the menu.

Digest Miami is your visual guide to the best restaurants, chefs, and gastronomical experiences in South Florida. DigestMiami.com harnesses technology to provide an unbeatable user experience delivered by way of a multi platform-multimedia network.
The Company curates original high definition content and programming with a focus on the finest restaurants, the chefs and personalities that make up the South Florida dining experience.

For more information about DIGEST MIAMI, please visit www.digestmiami.com or contact Nick Betancourt, Nick.Betancourt@yahoo.com.

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The New Villa Mayfair Resturant and Lounge

Press Release:
The New Villa Mayfair Resturant + Lounge Ignites Historic Coconut Grove With World Reknown Cuisine, Décor + Beats
Villa Mayfair Restaurant + Lounge
2901 Florida Avenue
Coconut Grove, FL
(305) 774-1500
www.villa-mayfair.com
www.facebook.com/villamayfair.
Open Tue. through Sat. from 7pm until 3am and closed on Sunday and Monday.

Situated in the beating heart of Miami’s electric Coconut Grove is Villa Mayfair, a beacon of stylish ambiance and incredible sumptuous fare. Villa Mayfair’s owner looked to World famous Executive Chef, Frederic Joulin, for cuisine and World renowned interior designer, Francios Frossard, for décor to set forth his vision of elegant dining and party perfection in a relaxed lounge atmosphere tailored to the rhythm of Miami life. Villa Mayfair’s team of fine dining’s elite; its opulent decor and its titillating cuisine are the perfect ingredients for an extraordinary new edible experience in Miami’s historic Coconut Grove.

Villa Mayfair delivers an irresistible cuisine, made up of a diverse blend of Mediterranean flavors, where the quality of ingredients takes center stage. Chef Joulin will prepare his culinary masterpieces using fresh, local, and seasonal products in the Villa Mayfair’s state of the art 4000 square foot kitchen that boasts a stunning raw bar with a picture window for guests to look on as their ocean delicacies are prepared. Chef Frederic Joulin has created haute cuisine for over 20 years under the guidance of the World’s culinary elite including World renowned, 3 Michelin star Chef, Guy Savoy. Frederic created his arresting fare for the World’s most prestigious diners including global dignitaries and the most adored international celebrities; Chef Joulin was the private chef to President Jacque Chirac of France at home and while traveling for two years of his rich career. Frederic’s privileged culinary training and his ingenious gastronomic execution make him one of the World’s finest with cuisine as delectable to the eye as it is to the palette.

Villa Mayfair was created to bring a piece of the uber-chic South of France stateside to Miami’s beloved Coconut Grove. In order to make that vision a reality, cutting edge, interior designer Francois Frossard was appointed director of decor to the project. Frossard is responsible for the design of some of Miami’s most admired spaces including The Forge, Mansion, Prive and Opium. Frossard is a leader of the new romantic design movement, infusing decadent glamour with whimsy mystique, pairing contradiction with tradition. The Villa Mayfair’s décor was created by Frossard with the intention to establish a cozy, lavishly lit dining space where guests could un-wind from the daily stresses of life in a relaxed lounge environment. The Villa Mayfair has a lush, living room feel boasting eye catching details including 1930’s floor tiles, a nod to the history and Cuban influence on the location, a sleek, hammered-brass bar and sexy Murano glass chandeliers that drip like crystal wax from the ceiling. Villa Mayfair is pleased to present après dinner bottle service; guests can sway to the beats of renowned local DJ’s while indulging in some of the World’s most exquisite Champagnes. Villa Mayfair’s design oozes luxury inviting guests to relax and enjoy the space for hours.

“Villa Mayfair is a restaurant and lounge that should excel in three cornerstones of the industry: food, service and design. Villa Mayfair is a hospitality destination that shall make its patrons feel like they are in the finest European home, feeling welcomed and pampered in all our senses: “sight” through its design, “taste” and “smell” through its culinary exhilaration, “touch” through immaculate service and “sound” through its companionship of a in house DJ providing a subtle yet energetic sexy beats throughout the dining and lounging experience”, says Timo Kipp, owner of Villa Mayfair.
Villa Mayfair has breathed new life into Miami’s adored Coconut Grove by creating a stylish dining experience rich with sophistication, a striking aesthetic and fantastic, first class fare.

House Nightclub Coming February 2012 To Wynwood Arts District

House Nightclub Coming Soon To Wynwood Arts District

Tech-savvy playground to be first of its kind in Miami’s “SoHo” neighborhood.
www.housenightclub.com

HOUSE, a 9,000-square-foot multi-room venue modeled after a home of the future, is slated to become the first nightclub in the Wynwood Arts District with its February 2012 opening. As the brainchild of established designer and nightlife impresario Mark Lowe, whose projects include the acclaimed Living Room nightclub in Fort Lauderdale and 13 other venues around the globe, HOUSE will merge technological prowess with style and substance to create a truly unique addition to the burgeoning neighborhood.

“HOUSE will be more of a living, breathing art installation than a nightclub, which is only fitting considering its location,” says Lowe. “My goal is to change the way Miami sees nightlife, and because this is a ‘house,’ all the naughty things you do behind closed doors will be revealed.”

The loft-like former warehouse space will feature state-of-the-art sight and sound installations such as 360-degree panoramic projections, 3D architectural mapping, holograms and cyber technology unparalleled in the world. In order to evoke the warmth and intimacy of an actual home, kitchens will be bars; showers in VIP areas; beds with bed sheets; cocktail waitresses dressed only in crisp men’s T-shirts; and pajama-clad bouncers, even sexy little surprises in the nightstand tables.

HOUSE will be the latest and largest nightlife destination to open its doors in Wynwood, which has been unofficially dubbed the “Miami version of New York’s ‘SoHo’ reincarnation, circa 1960s.”

Choose Where Your Money Goes with MD Cultural Affairs Council and the Knight Foundation Power2Give.org beginning 12/14/11

Choose Where Your Money Goes with MD Cultural Affairs Council and the Knight Foundation Power2Give.org
Website Launches December 14, 2011
power2give.org
Twitter @power2give
Facebook at facebook.com/power2give.

power2give.org, an Easy to Use, Online Fundraising Platform Debuts in Miami on December 14th
The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, Arts & Science Council and Knight Foundation introduce power2give.org, connecting people to cultural projects

On Wednesday, December 14, 2011, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the Arts & Science Council (ASC) located in Charlotte, N.C. and with generous support from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, is launching www.power2give.org, a new fundraising platform to support arts and cultural projects in Miami-Dade County.

Local arts organizations are embracing innovative and creative new ways to engage their audiences and secure more resources. power2give.org, created by ASC, offers a direct way to connect local arts and cultural projects with individuals and corporations interested in turning specific needs into realities. Cultural organizations’ listed needs describe clearly identified projects – for example, instruments for children in a youth orchestra or costumes for an upcoming theater production. People visiting the site can pick a need that interests them and direct their giving to making that exact project come to fruition.

The site’s Miami launch is going to feature funding needs for dozens of projects from myriad and varied organizations. power2give.org debuted in Charlotte, N.C. in late August 2011 under ASC’s auspices, and has already generated more than $200,000 in directed giving in that community. The Miami portion of the site is housed within the same URL, and can be accessed by selecting “Miami” from the drop-down box at the top of the home page.

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation has joined the Department of Cultural Affairs and ASC as a founding sponsor of power2give.org, providing each community $100,000 in matching donations to the first $100,000 in contributions made in Charlotte and Miami through the site.

“This new platform gives people a personal connection to the organizations that create culture in our communities,” said Dennis Scholl, Knight Foundation’s vice president/Arts. “power2give.org also strives to engage new audiences and donors – meeting them where they are, which is increasingly online.”

power2give.org, conceived and developed by ASC, is borne out of the recognition that future funding of the cultural sector requires increasingly diversified and innovative means, and is in direct response to current trends in philanthropy. Giving from high net worth individuals is down 71% from 2007 according to the Center on Philanthropy. Meanwhile, 2010 trends indicate an increased number of gifts with smaller average gift sizes, further growth in online donations and a strong desire from donors to see where their gifts go. The site also creates a closer relationship between donors and the organizations they support.

“Miami’s philanthropic patterns and opportunities, like much of the rest of the United States, continue to shift and evolve, and power2give.org is one example of how the cultural funding support model must adapt in order to attract the resources needed to fuel our cultural industry,” said Adolfo Henriques, chairman of the Miami-Dade County Cultural Affairs Council. “Individuals and businesses have told us plainly that when they know the exact use of their contributions and can see the tangible impacts of their investments on making particular cultural projects possible, they feel greater senses of confidence and satisfaction.”

Michael Spring, director of the Department of Cultural Affairs stated, “There are compelling needs within every cultural organization. power2give.org allows groups to describe those needs genuinely and specifically to their audiences and prospective donors, and to give those donors a broader understanding of just what it takes to make arts and cultural programs possible. It builds a deeper sense of involvement in and reality about the creative process for everyone.”

Currently, non-profit organizations that have received funding from the Department of Cultural Affairs within the past five years can post projects needing up to $10,000 on power2give.org. Organizations promote their projects to individuals through a variety of print, electronic and social media channels.

Projects have up to 90 days to achieve their funding goals. The Department of Cultural Affairs and ASC are assessing the possibility of extending the opportunity to artists and other non-profits to post projects on the site in the future.

Knight Foundation supports transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, advance media innovation, engage communities and foster the arts. The foundation believes that democracy thrives when people and communities are informed and engaged. For more, visit KnightFoundation.org.

The Arts & Science Council is a non-profit organization in Charlotte, N.C. that builds appreciation, participation and support for the arts, science, history and heritage in Charlotte-Mecklenburg. ASC works to shape a vibrant cultural life for all through fundraising, grant making, cultural planning, public art, capacity building and community engagement. For more, visit ArtsAndScience.org.

The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council develop cultural excellence, diversity and participation throughout Miami-Dade County by strategically creating and promoting opportunities for artists and cultural organizations, and our residents and visitors who are their audiences. The Department directs the Art in Public Places program and its board, the Art in Public Places Trust, commissioning, curating, maintaining and promoting the County’s art collection. The Department also manages, programs and operates the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, a campus of state-of-the-art cultural facilities in Cutler Bay dedicated to presenting and supporting excellence in the arts for the entire community. Through staff, board and programmatic resources, the Department, the Council and the Trust promote, coordinate and support Miami-Dade County’s more than 1,000 not-for-profit cultural organizations as well as thousands of resident artists through grants, technical assistance, public information and interactive community planning. The Department receives funding through the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners, The Children’s Trust, the National Endowment for the Arts, the State of Florida through the Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Arts Council, and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. Other support and services are provided by TicketWeb for the Culture Shock Miami program, the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, the South Florida Cultural Consortium and the Tourist Development Council.

New Theatre Finds Home With The Roxy Theatre Group For Current Season

New Theatre Finds Home With The Roxy Theatre Group For Current Season

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, The Roxy Theatre Group (RTG) a non-profit youth arts organization is honored to welcome professional theater company, New Theatre to The Roxy Performing Arts Center (1645 SW 107th Ave. Miami, FL). This collaboration marks the first time in recent years, an educational performing arts program houses a resident theatre ensemble in Miami-Dade County. As education and the creative spirit of the arts are instrumental principles for both organizations, this effort shall strengthen Miami’s arts network.

New Theatre had to seek another venue, as the 100-seat locale where they commissioned and world premiered over fifty ground breaking productions, such as Nilo Cruz’s Pulitzer Prize winning play Anna In The Tropics (2003), since 2001 is to be demolished in January, 2012. Established in a renovated movie-house since 2002 and best known for their children’s performing arts programming, The Roxy Theatre Group is thrilled to provide New Theatre with a headquarters for the 2011-2012 season.

As part of the partnership, RTG’s advanced students will have the opportunity to audition and work backstage for New Theatre’s shows, enabling young performers to gain Actors’ Equity Association credentials, essential for theatre professionals. Artists from New Theatre will also provide theater workshops to RTG students. While this commences an extraordinary culmination, each organization will remain producing artistic endeavors separately.

“We wanted to help New Theatre, as soon as we became aware of the situation. After all the show must go on!,” said Jorgina Fernandez, Artistic Director & Co-Founder for The Roxy Theatre Group.

“We are incredibly appreciative of The Roxy Theatre Group opening their home to us! It completely makes sense that a top-notch performing arts youth program partner with an award-winning, nationally recognized theatre company. Our individual missions can only be strengthened by our co-existence!,” said Ricky J. Martinez, New Theatre’s Artistic Director. Founded in 1986, New Theatre is a multi-cultural theatre producing a season of Nouveau Classic works, blending classics and new works.

Please visit www.RoxyPac.com & www.new-theatre.org for The Roxy Theatre Group’s and New Theatre’s respective seasons. The Roxy Theatre Group offers classes in drama, voice and dance to children ages 3-17, with year-round programs including two after school care programs and a performing arts summer camp. For more information please call 305-226-0030, email Ana Andreu, Programs Director via Aandreu@roxypac.com.

Photo attached: 2910, jpg. Caption: New Theatre, Artistic Director, Ricky J. Martinez, Managing Director, Eileen Suarez, The Roxy Theatre Group, Theatre Arts Director, Charles A. Sothers and Artistic Director, Jorgina Fernandez, celebrate this extraordinary collaboration. Photo by: Nora Oñate.

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Get The Green Light G*Spot Tour

Get The Green Light G*Spot Tour
www.gspotartproject.com

Ten Miami-based Artists, Grolsch European Lager and curator Claire Breukel team up to give you the “go ahead” you’ve been waiting for. Wilder than the look on your face is Get The Green Light, an exhibition of ten works that make up the G-spot Tour. Are you blushing? This ambitious exhibition removed as many parameters as possible commissioning the artists to make work with just one rule: make anything and make it anywhere you want. The result is ten site-responsive works in ten different locations, just in time for the 10thanniversary of Art Basel Miami Beach. The exhibition opens with a G-spot VIP invite-only reception on November 10, 2011 at Ricochet bar and lounge and is supported in full by Grolsch European Lager.

The G-spot Tour is a scavenger hunt of 10 interactive and site-responsive murals and installations by artists Edouard Duval Carrie, Susan Lee Chun, Kerry Phillips, Domingo Castillo, Kyle Trowbridge, Loriel Beltran, TM Sisters, Pachi Guistinian and Grolsch SwingArtist 2011 Jaie Hwang. The tour spans 10 locations throughout Downtown, Wynwood Art District and the Design District, and include venues such as Little Haiti Cultural Center, Grand Central, the Historic Alfred Du Pont building, Dorsch Gallery, Ricochet, LegalArt, The Stage, Electric Pickle, Grand Central as well as public space (full map available for download on www.gspotartproject.com)

Without the hindrances such as limitation of space and concept eliminated, Get The Green Light serves as an open interface between the public, public space and artwork ultimately opening the way into a new chapter of interactive art. The result is ten dynamic and challenging art installations that push the boundaries of interaction to a new and inspired level, not only in the physical space but online as well. Visitors are invited to “find their G-spot” favorite by voting for their winner and posting pictures of their favorite artwork online at www.gspotartproject.com.

At a time when art becomes about everyone else coming to Miami, Get The Green Light has chosen to highlight artists working in Miami. Not only this, artists that are making work outside of convention modes of exhibition.

Filmmakers Wet Heat project, as part of Wet Heat TV, are creating a short movie of the Tour featuring a local cast and will debut at the opening event on November 10 at Ricochet bar and lounge.

The G*spot bike-ride will be organized in collaboration with Beached Miami and will take you by all 10 art-installations which will end at The Stage (date tbd).

Get The Green Light is made possible with the support of Grolsch, the Historic Alfred Du Pont building, Wet Heat TV, Alan Roth, Paul Jacober and Associates, Claire Breukel, Tina Acevedo as well as the participating artists and venues.

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Meet Miami’s Jane “Jei” Castro – VH1’s Newest Reality Star is a Force to be Reckoned With

Meet Miami’s Jane “Jei” Castro
VH1’s Newest Reality Star is a Force to be Reckoned With

When you first meet this beautiful Cuban-American woman, you get the sense that there’s something electrifying about her. Born in Miami, Florida to working class Cuban immigrant parents, Jei started her career very early, at the young age of 5, performing at family gatherings. After a beautiful performance in front of a large crowd at a school event, Jane received her first standing ovation and the moment triggered her parents to realize foster her artistic talents with singing and piano lessons.

Following her instincts she continued performing in her adolescent years as an active part of her high school chorus and drama club. On her 15th Birthday she released her first demo for a single project with two songs related to the celebrated Spanish tradition of “Quinceañera” or Sweet Fifteen. Due to the buzz about this release, Jei was featured in an article in the Miami Herald about local musical talent and also interviewed by other local magazines.

These publications opened several opportunities for Jei and soon after she was contacted by the National Foundation for the Advancement of the Arts, to participate in their annual national singing contest. Continuing on her path to accomplish her dream she auditioned and performed on MTV’s Spring Break, American Idol 2001 where she showed her talents and was exposed to millions on TV coming in second place. MTV Reps were extremely impressed by her high energy performance and invited her back to other venues.

At this same time Jei wasintroduced to the thriving underground house music scene in Miami in such clubs as Space. It was there that she met Edgar V, Oscar G, Ralph Falcon, Charlie Solana and Sammy O. From then on Jei worked on her craft by performing in the top clubs with Hot Jam Entertainment developing her style and rapport. Leading up to recording “Enlevez- Moi’” with DJ Christian Falero on Sydney Blu’s label Blu Music.

It was then Jei ran into Ralph Falcon and he thought she was finally ready to shine. From that session, her second hit ‘’Amame’’ was born, and was released on May 2011 on Nervous Records. Shortly after ‘’Enlevez-Moi’’ was released to rave reviews and a scorching remix by Paul Thomas that has been featured on Sirius Radio, and the BBC Radio 1 UK and featured on Sydney Blu’s cd on Nervous Records & Itunes.

Jei is currently doing shows in support of the two singles and is working on her solo single with Giuseppe D, entitled ‘’Show me the Money’’ on Spy Music Group to be released on I-Tunes within the next coming weeks. Jei being the mutli-faceted artist that she is, just wrapped up a season of Tough Love Miami on Vh1 to air starting this Sunday, October 2, that will hopefully make her a household name. Whether she’s on the stage, tv, radio or blasting in a club system near you. Jei is a force to be reckoned with.

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Auditions For Specialty Music And Dance Groups 9/21/11

Auditions For Specialty Music And Dance Groups
september 21, 2011, 10 am
by appointment only
Auditions by appointment – Sept. 21, 2011 (Orlando, FL)
Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Los Angeles based production company is now casting for specialty music and dance groups, acrobatic groups, freerunner troupes (parkour), performance artists, celebrity impersonators, solo vocalist, vocal groups, specialty bands, celebrity impersonators, close-up magicians, ventriloquists, clean comedians, original performances and acts of any kind (family friendly).

Please submit a current headshot, promotional material (if app), and resume via email (please include a valid phone number). If you qualify for consideration, you will receive a phone call within 48 hours of submission to schedule an appointment and all details will be given out at that time. Send to: Jonathan Piumelli auditions@themeparkshow.com

Thank you for your interest! Space is limited, so please make your submissions ASAP!! Performance dates are ongoing – We book talent for special events, theme parks (seasonal), and cruise ships (seasonal). Looking to expand list of acts currently offered.

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Amazone Paiche Debuts in U.S.

Amazone Paiche,  is making its South Florida debut at Miami’s top restaurants and events this summer.

Having made its initial preview in 2011 during Restaurant Week in New York City, the Amazone Paiche from Peru is exclusively imported and distributed by ArtisanFish directly to Miami’s discerning health-conscious palates, and soon beyond.

Beloved not only for its crisp taste, Amazone Paiche offers thick, juicy filets with no traces of harmful mercury or other heavy metals commonly found in some fish of comparable size. It is raised all natural in first use water, free of chemicals, hormones, or contaminants. Chefs favor its consistent quality, flavor, texture and sustainable aqua farming practices. Paiche is also able to withstand high cooking temperatures because of its high collagen content, allowing the formation of a delicious crust on the outside while retaining juiciness on the inside. Its unique properties offer adaptability to any flavor or cooking style–from crusted to skewered.

South Florida celebrities and the “epicurious” are previewing Amazone Paiche this summer. First having satiated star athletes and celebrities like Alonzo Mourning, Jason Taylor and Jeffrey Donovan during Zo’s Summer Groove, now South Floridians can preview Paiche during Miami Spice as select restaurants such as Palme d’Or, Area 31 and Sushi Samba have added the “Super Fish” to their menu for a limited time. Soon to appear on the menus of Miami’s most high-profile restaurants, the new gastronomic delight is sure to be the must-order for any fine foodie.

Distributed solely by ArtisanFish, the Amazone Paiche brand represents 100% traceability to farm and every shipment complies with Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) regulations, which ensures the purchase of legally traded Paiche and prevents commercial exports of endangered wild Paiche.

The Amazone aqua farm touts not only the highest quality and most consistent Paiche available, but also innovative and environmentally conscious farming methods and the mission to restore the species, which is endangered from overfishing in South America.

ArtisanFish is the exclusive importer, wholesaler and distributor of Amazone Paiche to the Americas, marketing it for $13 a pound. ArtisanFish specializes in sustainable, all-natural seafood of premium quality. They are known locally for distributing their products to high-end restaurants and retailers such as Whole Foods Supermarkets.

For more information on the Amazone Paiche please visit: artisanfish.com.

The Adventures of Bibi and Friends Goes Global

The Adventures of Bibi & Friends is a comic book about a fictional character with real life friends. Bibi is a world-renowned marketing, public relations and event specialist, living in Miami Beach, FL. Bibi represents top-notch clients and products throughout the world.

The Adventures of Bibi & Friends Launch BibiandFriends.TV With A Kickstarter Pledge Campaign!
BibiandFriends.TV is a new “comic book meets reality” weekly web series, that shows the behind the scenes production of creating and producing a comic book, from event to the page. The web series combines all the materials into a reality TV/comic book production.

The viewer gets to follow the drama and the excitement of covering events as well as seeing the process of transforming the coverage to comic book/animation format. The series will be a combination of animation and reality. The viewer also has an opportunity to be part of the adventure by appearing as a comic book character in a selected webisode.

Bibi Kickstarter Campaign
The 30-day fundraising campaign begins on September 5th and ends on October 5th, 2011.

Pledge levels start from $1 – $2,000 & up. With each level of pledge, the supporters are rewarded with gifts for contributing (including Bibi Book Editions, Bibi T-Shirts, appearing as a comic book character in an edition of The Adventures of Bibi & Friends, and Executive Producer Credit on BibiandFriends.TV)

The funds collected will be used for production & technology cost needed to produce BibiandFriends.TV. The more money collected, the more people we will be able to employ on the production this project. BibiandFriends.TV hopes to create a new job market by offering jobs to graduating film students entering the job market.

Ritz-Carlton first luxury hotel brand on Foursquare

Revolutionary Move as The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. Checks in to Foursquare and Travels with You

Travel the globe, check in to locations and landmarks in 25 countries, and you will find far more information than you were expecting from a luxury hotel operator as The Ritz-Carlton introduces the World Concierge on Foursquare. This is the first time a luxury hotel brand has extended their exclusive services to a mobile public audience. Tips will be populated regularly by concierges from all 75 Ritz-Carlton hotels around the world contributing, with the knowledge-base growing and evolving every week.

There is not a mention to be found about the soup of the day at a particular hotel; instead, the ladies and gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton have taken their phenomenal knowledge and expertise beyond the four walls of the hotels in which they reside, providing insight into cities such as Toronto, Miami, Berlin and Dubai to name a few. The result: hundreds of tips and insights about local destinations and landmarks all over the world.

“Guests of The Ritz-Carlton have always enjoyed the expertise of concierges who are the best in the business. Their local knowledge, VIP access and incomparable contacts make them an invaluable resource for travelers”, said Chris Gabaldon, chief sales and marketing officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Foursquare enables The Ritz-Carlton Concierge to travel with you. “It’s possible to access their destination knowledge instantly as you check in to multiple global landmarks,” added Gabaldon. “Foursquare users across the globe are invited to access knowledge and valuable tips just by following The Ritz-Carlton on Foursquare. For the first time ever, the collected local knowledge of The Ritz-Carlton is available in your pocket.”

Foursquare users are able to find local information by visiting the profile of The Ritz-Carlton or by checking in to numerous locations of interest around the world. To receive tips as they go live you can follow The Ritz-Carlton on Foursquare. To start exploring, visit www.foursquare.com/ritzcarlton. Alternatively, you can always connect with The Ritz-Carlton on Facebook and Twitter to see featured tips as they go live by visiting www.facebook.com/ritzcarlton and www.twitter.com/ritzcarlton.

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Announcement: Miami Beach icon Hotel Breakwater Officially Reopens

Hotel Breakwater Reopens On Ocean Drive After Multi-Million-Dollar Renovation

Luxury boutique resort and Art Deco jewel celebrates the past and supercharges the future

Hotel Breakwater, the upscale oceanfront boutique resort on Miami Beach’s legendary Ocean Drive, has officially reopened its doors. On the heels of a multi-million-dollar renovation, the property will again capture the essence of the city’s glamorous lifestyle with its 100 sleek rooms and suites, chic lounges and “unfiltered” concierge services.

“Hotel Breakwater is much more than a chic destination,” said Regional Hotel Director Axel Gasser. “We aim to provide our guests with an unfiltered lifestyle experience that goes beyond anything tangible. Our concierges, or ‘magicians,’ as we like to call them, along with several other programs unique to the property, help us achieve our goal of making each individual’s wishes—no matter how big or small—come true. This is what we call our 100 Percent Wish Guarantee.”

Architecture & Design
An Art Deco property built in 1939 by Yugoslavian-born architect Anton Skislewicz, Hotel Breakwater most recently underwent several years of upgrades under the direction of designer Stephen B. Jacobs. Since its inception, Hotel Breakwater has been regarded as a glamorous South Beach destination catering to a hip, of-the-moment clientele. The hotel became legendary in the 1980s when it was immortalized in the popular Calvin Klein advertisement for Obsession perfume featuring supermodel Kate Moss and shot by Bruce Weber on the famed rooftop terrace.

In spite of a long series of renovations, the hotel’s décor has remained true to the classic Art Deco styling and color palette. With 100 guest rooms and suites featuring modern furnishings, luxurious fabrics and stylish accents, the historic property now matches the clean, sophisticated vibe of its fashion-forward clientele.

Guestrooms & Amenities
Standard rooms, available with city or ocean views, each feature a foyer, king-sized bed, sitting area, writing desk, flat-screen television, entertainment unit, iPod docking station, high-speed internet access, organic mini bar and bathroom with a rejuvenating rainforest shower, double sinks and Pharmacopia products. Private penthouses exude true exclusivity, with scenic ocean views, living rooms and secluded terraces, while select penthouse terraces feature private plunge pools.

Hotel Breakwater also houses several lounges to satisfy a variety of downtime styles, whether one is looking to chill out, entertain or conduct a power meeting. Standing five stories above the South Beach Art Deco District, Intimissi Lounge is an intimate rooftop sanctuary offering a sense of tranquility, with sprawling daybeds, plush loveseats and unobstructed panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Upon nightfall, the candlelit deck, accented with soft lighting and music, transforms into an adults-only tropical oasis. Two floors below, the Wellness Garden is a poolside retreat where guests can relax in cabanas, enjoy massages and wade in the floating lap pool. The hotel’s guest-only beach zone is located directly across Ocean Drive, offering lounge service along with a variety of water-sports activities for those seeking the definitive South Beach experience. For those who must attend to business, the state-of-the-art, butlered Internet Lounge is at their service.

Restaurants & Lounges
NINE, Hotel Breakwater’s “east-meets-west” culinary concept, offers European-American comfort cuisine in a casual indoor-outdoor setting. Under the guidance of its three executive chefs, Ezequiel Zingoni, Billy Devlin and Manuel Mattei, NINE will offer natural and organic menu items including traditional Neapolitan pizzas, hand-made pastas, local seafood as well as inventive meat and poultry dishes. The restaurant will also feature a regional cheese bar imported from Europe. Located in the hotel’s lobby, NINE’s décor will be a combination of classic art deco and Mediterranean style.

NINE will be open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. daily.

Hotel Breakwater is a glamorous and stimulating lifestyle destination that prides itself on its ability to create “unfiltered” individual experiences. Whether it’s satisfying a craving in the middle of the night or planning an impromptu night out, the unique, on-demand concierge service will turn guests’ dreams into a reality. Special packages, including the “Bromance,” “Fun in the Sun,” “Girls in the City,” “Sinful Indulgence,” “Status Quo,” “Relax and Detox” and “Florida Resident Special,” are also available to satisfy individual needs. For more information, visit www.breakwatersouthbeach.com.

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Announcement: Alive on South Beach SyndicatedNews.Net

From: Dena Stewart & Stewart Stewart

As heads of the South Beach Bureau for SyndicatedNews.Net, a Radio/TV internet site, we are producing a show called “Alive on South Beach”.

You can go directly to our show – the video crowd scene (first video): click here or go to www.SyndicatedNews.Net which is the home page and click “Syndicated South Beach”.

Our first epidsode of “Alive on South Beach” includes our report on Urban Beach Week, an interview with George Neary about the Miami Beach Sister City Program, a look at the new gigantic movie screen on the wall of the New World Symphony Center and a moment on Lincoln Road.

The show will contain a little bit of this and a little bit of that – including interviews with interesting and passionate people, as well as our perspective on the Miami connection to world events.

If you would like to suggest someone for an interview or an event you would like covered, please e-mail us at: speakwithstewart@aol.com.

To View The Show: click here.

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Not Your Average Bar Grub at The Blue Piano New Dishes and Expanded Dessert Section

Not Your Average Bar Grub at The Blue Piano:
New Dishes & Expanded Dessert Section

Blue Piano
4600 NE 2nd Avenue
Buena Vista neighborhood

Miami’s only destination serving up an ecclectic selection of wine and craft beers alongside an inspired small plates menu offering a live musical selection that includes chilled out jazz and soulful blues.

Gone are the days when all anyone could find at a bar were chicken wings, burgers and onion rings. The Blue Piano features a menu inspired by a late-night breakfast cravings, classic American comfort foods and plays on American school lunch classics by adding whimsical twists here and there. Although high quality and local ingredients and produce are sourced, creator and Chef Cesar Zapata-Diaz employs various pop culture classic snacks like cheesy Cheetos or crunchy pork rinds for an added element surprise that tickles every grown up’s funny bone.

After recently launching a menu expansion, the Blue Piano is pleased to announce some menu updates and new additions. The menu is sub-divided in five sections: From the Chiller, Hot Stuff, Flats, Snacky Type Things and Sweet Stuff.

From the Chiller menu updates include a Classic Caesar Salad made with good ole egg yolks, anchovies and baby romaine heads sourced right from Miami’s backyard, aka. Doral; Spanish boquerones are utilized for a milder, more delicate salty, umami component. A Creamy Burrata is accompanied by caramelized peach wedges, baby arugula from Homestead, crostini and vin cotto reduction.

The Hot Stuff section provides items not to be missed. The 2am Huevos, the Chester Cheetah and the McLuvvin’ are items quickly becoming House Specialties. The 2am huevos is a terra cotta casserole with a soft roasted, farm fresh egg, thyme, crostini with English farmhouse cheddar and organic, Umbrian truffle infused oil, good enough for breakfast, but even better late at night; the Chester Cheetah, a dangerously, cheesy mac ‘n cheese made with fontina, edam, burrata and cheddar cheeses is topped and baked crisp with a Cheetos crumb topping and extra Cheetos for added crunch; and the Mc Luvvin’ is a riff on a breakfast sandwich with sautéed chistorra (a type of Spanish chorizo), chicharrones, chipotle crema and fried quail egg served on a sour dough English muffin and sweet pickles on the side.

Weekly rotating specials are added to the Hot Stuff section. This week features Buffalo Style Chicharrones, crispy pork belly tossed in homemade buffalo sauce served with traditional the wing garnish of carrots and celery sticks with ranch dressing ($9); a Green Grill’d Cheez, toasty brioche slathered up with a basil/parsley/scallion herb butter, melty edam cheese and homemade butter pickles ($8); and Clams ‘n Sausage, little neck clams, chistorra, confit garlic and parsley ($12). In an effort to be dynamic, the menu items change regularly, so don’t expect it to be the same on any two visits.

A newly developed dessert section, Sweet Stuff, has been added. Highlighting interesting sweet/savory combinations. The selection is concise, but to the point. BP Peanut Butter Cups ($7) sandwiches chunky peanut butter between Mexican chocolate that combines ancho chiles, smoked paprika, cinnamon and cumin and is served with a Szechuan peppercorn scented coconut tapioca pudding. Cherry Bourbon Brioche Bread Pudding ($14) takes bread pudding to another level by adding shaved foie gras and luscious crème anglaise to the mix. Lastly, Espresso Brownies ($8), bittersweet chocolate and espresso fudge cakes, are served with a maple bacon cream.

The Blue Piano serves its Munchies menu all night long – Tuesday/Wednesday until 12am and Thursday through Saturday until 2am. This late kitchen makes it the ideal place for late night snacking for party goers and people who work in the biz and get out later than the average Joe. Menu items are affordably priced with items ranging from $4 – $15 per plate.

Miami Music Television Showcases South Florida


Miami Music Television show serves as a platform to feature musicians, bands and performers from the South Florida and international markets performing all genres and styles of music. The program will also include celebrity guest appearances and interviews from the music and entertainment industries. Miami Music Television targets the very desirable 18 to 39 year old demographic with strong numbers in older 65+ demographics as well.

ABC Television Saturday night on WPLG Channel 10 Miami Florida, Atlantic Broadband, Comcast Cable, Dish Network, Direct TV at 1am.
MCB Network Houston Texas Channel 55.4 Saturday night at 8 pm.
Hot TV Network, New York, Seattle, Dallas and Ft. Worth Saturday night.
Tele max 5 Haiti, Saturday night at 8pm on the #1 TV station in Haiti and .5 million online in Miami.

Any artists or musicians interested in appearing on the show go to www.MiamiMusicTelevision.com and send your information.

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Dear Joint Budget Commission and Miami-Dade Delegation: Ease Cuts To The Aquatic Preserve Program

On May 20th, 2011, this article ran in the Miami Herald.

Environmentalists fight plan to weaken protection of Biscayne Bay
A legislative proposal would cut funding for an office that works to preserve Biscayne Bay.

In response, the letter below or one similar addressed to the politicians has been circulating. We at Soul Of Miami support the position of protecting the Bay for both environmental and economic reasons.

Dear Joint Budget Commission and Miami-Dade Delegation:

I am writing to express my deep concern with proposed budget cuts to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Aquatic Preserve program. I respectfully request your consideration of the vital role this department plays in the critical maintenance and protection of Florida’s most pristine coastal and marine resources. These resources serve our local economies as the key economic drivers to our fishing, tourism and recreational economies that provide billions of dollars to our citizens and our state each year.

I read the Miami Herald article on the front page of the Local section and understand that Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve office in particular will be defunded. Our aquatic preserve supports a multi-million dollar commercial fishery and recreational tourism like fishing charters, diving, ecotours, kayaking and other revenue-generating activities. The bay has come a long way because of the management its been afforded and I want my tax dollars to continue to support this nationally-recognized and much-visited resource. Here is a link the the article–I ask that you read it and take this under consideration.

http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/04/20/2178292/environmentalists-fight-plan-to.html

Personally speaking, as a concerned and responsible citizen of this city and planet, I depend on the health and vitality of our waterways to maintain my lifestyle. I understand the importance of preserving our precious coastlines and world renowned natural resources. I realize budget cuts are inevitable in these economically sensitive times, however, short-term budget cuts to CAMA could lead to potentially devastating long-term effects on our economy and lifestyle, as well as our future and that of the children.

Sincerely yours,
James Echols
Annette Peikert
Soul Of Miami

Please feel free to copy the above and customize it to your own usage and send it to the appropriate elected and appointed officials.

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Press Release: Life Is Art Showcases South Florida at The Shops at Boca Center on April 30th, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Annette Peikert
annette@lifeisartfest.org
Tracy Adamsky
tracy@abovead.com

Life Is Art Showcases South Florida at The Shops at Boca Center on April 30th, 2011

A full day of art, music, fashion, performance and more!

Right now, South Florida is one of the most exciting and dynamic emerging art scenes in the world. With numerous art walks popping up all over the area, many mega art fairs and festivals, and the largest art week in the world, the eye of the art world is focused squarely on South Florida. Yet, much of the local talent is left out of the explosion of artistic opportunity. South Florida is the home of many, many truly talented artists, all with their own unique voice and style, but it seems as if, in our rush to be a big-time player on the world art stage, we sometimes forget what we have right here.

Life Is Art, through the support of The Shops at Boca Center and StarMar Events, inaugurates the first Life Is Art Boca Center South Florida Artist Fair to celebrate and showcase what our area has to offer. This is a day filled with art and entertainment, featuring dozens of accomplished south Florida artists of all types, from emerging to experienced to world-renowned. The event also includes live music, fashion shows and even circus performances, all for free!

“This is a great way for The Shops at Boca Center to give back to the community,” states Candace Goldstein, manager of the center. The Shops at Boca Center, an upscale luxury shopping and fine dining center, is donating the space for the art fair. James Echols, co-founder of Life Is Art, said, “We are very excited about this opportunity to expand our mission of supporting the south Florida art community.” Life Is Art is a non-profit founded in January of 2009 that is dedicated to providing opportunity for south Florida artists. All of this is made possible through the support of StarMar Events; a comprehensive Event consulting, production and management firm. “When Life Is Art approached us with their needs for this event, we were more than happy to contribute to such a worthy cause and organization” states Marlene Quincoces, Chief Planning Officer.

This will be a full day of arts, culture and entertainment. With over forty visual artists represented, there will be a feast for the eyes. However, it does not stop there. Fab C Productions is producing two fashion shows and will be showcasing several south Florida based designers with cool vintage fashions. Motivational Edge, a music non-profit serving children, is bringing their student band, SoMeTiMeS Y to perform.

To tantalize your taste buds, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly is doing a free tasting for all attendees. Renda Writer, publisher of WeMerge Magazine, is going to be doing a live poetry reading. As if all this were not enough, there is even going to be a circus performance! Rainbow Circus, a premiere south Florida performance troupe, is going to be performing live acts of amazement. The day tops off with live music by Krisp, a hot local band playing your favorites and original numbers. DJ Silvio will be supplying the tunes all day to create a perfect background for the event.

This is truly an event not to be missed. The Shops at Boca Center are located at 5150 Town Center Circle in Boca Raton, FL 33486. The fair is taking place in the lush courtyard, surrounding the fountain. It is happening Saturday, April 30th, 2011 from 10:00am to 7:00pm, or later. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information about The Shops at Boca Center, please visit www.bocacenter.com. For more information on Life Is Art, please visit www.lifeisartfest.org.

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At the Wolfsonian-FIU Sidewalk Service Get Your Cupcakes Here

The Dynamo Food Factory & Café is creating a street-side satellite. Beginning this month, the café’s caterer, Shiraz Events, will transform the Bridge Tender House located on the sidewalk in front of the museum into a scaled-down version of the full service restaurant inside the museum. The Bridge Tender House will serve sandwiches, coffee and other beverages, and the café’s signature cupcakes to passersby. In addition, servers in the Bridge Tender House will be a source of information about the museum and will dispense Wolfsonian collateral materials along with local information flyers and maps. Inside the museum, the café has been granted its liquor license, and is now serving wine and beer.

“This is a fantastic development for us. The Bridge Tender House is a wonderful part of our collection that, in its new incarnation as a food depot and information center for passersby, will add to our outreach and interaction with the public,” notes Wolfsonian director Cathy Leff. The hexagonal, stainless-steel Bridge Tender House was built in 1939 for the Northwest 27th Avenue Bridge. Designed in the Art Moderne style by Harrington & Corteyou, the structure was saved from demolition in the late 1980s when the bridge was reconstructed, and it was donated to the collection by the Florida Department of Transportation. In recent years the Bridge Tender House has often housed installations by contemporary artists whose work expanded on themes in the museum’s collection.

Bridge Tender House for the Northwest 27th Avenue Bridge, 1939
Designed by Harrington & Corteyou, Inc., Kansas City, Missouri
Steel, wood, glass, iron, metal
131½ x 199 inches
The Wolfsonian–FIU, Gift of the Florida Department of Transportation 1993.5.1

Spike TV’s Auction Hunters in Miami

Auction Hunters on the Road

Auction Hunters On The Road
Tags: Auction Hunters On The Road

Official about the show:
Every year in America, 50,000 storage facilities hold auctions for abandoned storage units and, at these auctions, over $1 billion worth of goods changes hands. Each unit has the potential to be a goldmine or a bust for those who make their living hunting unclaimed property. “Auction Hunters” cuts the lock and opens the door into the high stakes, financial risks and potential rewards where the right purchase can bring in serious cash. The series follows Haff and Jones in their quest to win auctions, dig for abandoned historical treasure and sell them for a profit. This season they uncover high-valued items including a Winchester model 1912 shotgun valued at $1,500 and the exact scale remote control replica of a $3,000,000 luxury Viper Fan Jet plane valued at $11,500.
Allowed only a brief glimpse inside the unit before each fast-paced auction begins, skill and strategy are paramount as Haff and Jones have only seconds to estimate the value and determine how high they’re willing to bid to beat out the completion. Each episode will also feature “the dig,” a process by which our hunters literally dig into the contents of the unit and assess every item within as well as “the sell” where they consult experts, establish value and negotiate a sale with collectors and dealers.

{Sponsored Content}

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Centerplate At The 2011 Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival

Covert kitchen operation at The Miami Beach Convention Center acts as the “engine room” for two of the most prestigious events during this year’s festival

Centerplate at the Miami Beach Convention Center, part of the largest hospitality partner to North America’s premier sports stadiums, convention centers and entertainment venues, will once again act as the host kitchen and principal caterer for this year’s Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival.

Executive Chef Jonathan Barnett and his army of dedicated staff will manage the kitchen operation and on-site catering service behind two of the most prestigious events taking place during this year’s South Beach Wine & Food Festival. 2011 marks the fifth consecutive year in which Centerplate and Chef Barnett have quietly become the driving force behind the decadent culinary presentations to which attendees at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival have become accustomed.

Centerplate’s Chef Barnett will work hand-in-hand with Chef Michael Moran, Lead Chef Instructor and Culinary Coordinator for the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, from Florida International University’s School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, to provide the savory treats being served during the opening reception at the highly anticipated “Let Them Eat Cake” party – the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival 10 Year Anniversary celebration, presented by Moët Hennessy USA and hosted by Martha Stewart and Emeril Lagasse, taking place on Friday, February 25 at the prestigious 1111 Lincoln Road venue in Miami Beach.

Savory selections on the menu for the event, developed by Chef Barnett and prepared by both chefs in Centerplate’s hot kitchen at the Miami Beach Convention Center, include: Chilled Malted Duck (Barley malt cured breast, S&S pineapple-barley-mustard seed and Pretzel snap); Warm Crispy Potato Cakes (Crème fraiche with cardamom spiced green apple); Chilled Fruit with Mint (best of season dates and mint leaves served on a bamboo skewer with dry ice and banana leaf); Warm Pimenton Shrimp (Smoked Spanish paprika and sherry marinade served in terra cotta cazuelas on lighted rock salt with pinchos); Chilled Tamari Tuna and Cucumber (Dynamite sauce, wasabi micro greens and sesame seed flatbread) and Three Chilled Tomatoes and Crustiness (served with white balsamic, basil oil on a semolina toast glazed with herb springs).

The menu created for the event is being prepared for 800 people and will be offered by Centerplate’s distinguished catering staff and servers being provided on-site at the event.

“We are honored to be continuing our long-standing affiliation with the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival,” says Centerplate’s Executive Chef Jonathan Barnett. “The items on our savory menu for the Let Them Eat Cake 10 Year Anniversary celebration have been specially designed to suit the occasion. We also have a few surprises in store that we hope will make our two celebrity hosts proud! When creating our menu of savory treats, I asked myself….what would Martha Stewart do?”

For a fourth consecutive year, Centerplate will be providing a supporting role to FIU and its renowned Chef Michael Moran for this year’s acclaimed Perrier-Jouët BubbleQ event, presented by Allen Brothers and hosted by Bobby Flay and Friends, also taking place on Friday, February 25 at Delano in Miami Beach. One menu item chosen by each celebrity chef will be prepared in Centerplate’s cold kitchen by Chef Barnett and Chef Moran, before being transported to the Delano hotel to be enjoyed by the estimated 1000 attendees. Each celebrity chef will present his or her own signature plate on the night. America’s most respected grillmaster, none other than Bobby Flay himself, will lead a pack of skilled chefs who will artfully play with fire to prepare everything from gourmet pulled pork sandwiches, succulent steaks, and saucy ribs to juicy skewers of grilled fruit dipped in chocolate sauce. This year marks the tenth edition of BubbleQ and the last rendition of the festival’s most celebrated night. Celebrity chefs presenting on the night with Bobby Flay will include: Cat Cora, Todd English, Jonathan Waxman and Al Rocker, some of whom may even join our in-house chefs to oversee the finishing touches prior to the event in Centerplate’s kitchen.

For a fourth year, Centerplate will also have a presence at the Whole Foods Market Grand Tasting Village on the sands of 13th Street & Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, during the weekend of this year’s festival. Chef Barnett will serve a selection of Centerplate’s own creations with a Malt and Barley theme. A total of 625 pounds of pork is being shipped in to Centerplate’s kitchen for an estimated 10,000-person attendance over the two days. Last year, Centerplate prepared 600 pounds of Aligator peccadillo that was served by the Florida Department of Agriculture at the Grand Tasting Village.

Centerplate is a proud Silver level sponsor of the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival and is also recognized as a Preferred Caterer for the three-day event that attracts more than 20,000 people.

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New Programs at Mercadito Midtown Happy Hour, Taco Tuesday, All you Can Drink Wednesday

Mercadito Midtown Continues To Spice Up Miami
3252 NE First Avenue
Midtown Miami

Hip, Contemporary Mexican Restaurant Debuts 3 Exciting New Programs

With a creative, exciting concept that’s tailor made for Miami’s trendy, multicultural mix, Mercadito Midtown located at 3252 NE First Avenue in Midtown Miami is debuting three new programs: a new Happy Hour, Taco Tuesday & an All You Can Drink Wednesday Revolicion.

Happy Hour
Every Monday through Thursday from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, the bar and lounge area at Mercadito Midtown will be the place to be for Happy Hour. For only $5.00 per cocktail guests will be able to enjoy a Margarita Tradicional, Auntie Ox (Green Tea infused vodka, passion fruit, agrave, orange & guajillo) or an El Tucan Mojito (served with a daily selection of fresh fruit). Also for just $5.00 a glass, a selection of red & white wines will be available. All beers will available for $3.00 (Corona, Corona Light, Dos Equis, Modelo Especial, Negra Modelo, Tecate, etc).

Taco Tuesday
Every Tuesday, Mercadito Midtown will debut its weekly Taco Tuesday menu. Beginning at 5:00 PM, guests will be able to order any taco on the menu for $2.50 per taco (minimum order of 2 tacos with no maximum). Tacos that diners can choose from include but are not limited to: Pastor (chile ancho rubbed pork, grilled pineapple, chile de árbol salsa), Camarón (shrimp, roasted garlic, chipotle mojo, avocado), Carne (rosemary marinated skirt steak, potato-rajas fundido, avocado), Estilo Baja (beer battered mahi mahi, mexican style coleslaw, chipotle aioli), Carnitas (michoacán style braised pork, chile de árbol coleslaw, toasted peanuts), Pollo (grilled chicken, cactus salad, tomatillo salsa, avocado) and Pescado (tilapia, chile poblano, tomatillo-garlic mojo), among many others.

All You Can Drink Wednesday
Every Wednesday, Mercadito Midtown will hold a weekly “All You Can Drink Revolucion.” For just $25.00 and 6 very important rules, guests can enjoy an all inclusive beverage menu including a selection of beers, house white and red wines & cocktails such as the Margarita Tradicional (el jimador blanco, grand marnier, lime juice, organic agave nectar), Little Market (tequila reposado, fresh pineapple, chile guajillo, pico piquin), Pepino el Pyu (herradura blanco, cucumber, lemon, hoja santa, cumin salt), Smokey Pablo (regional reposado, mango, chile morita, blueberry float) and Los Hermanos (mescal, averna, grapefruit, lemon, ginger beer, cayenne). The 6 “All You Can Drink” rules are: 1.) To conquer it – must show up on Wednesday as early as 5:00 PM. 2.) Participants only have 2 hours to destroy the enemy. 3.) Everyone at the table must be a soldier but one who must be the designated revolutionary driver. 4.) One drink at a time. 5.) no shots are allowed. 6.) No extra loaded drinks.

Mercadito Hospitality has grown from their first New York City location in 2004 to become a renowned restaurant group specializing in Latin American cuisine. The popularity of these restaurants can be attributed to the innovative interpretations of traditional Mexican cooking created by Chef Patricio Sandoval, and their partnership with renowned beverage consultants Tippling Bros., who add creativity to their beverage programs by merging complex flavors, drinkability and the unexpected. The group currently owns and operates four acclaimed restaurants: Mercadito and Mercadito Grove in New York City, Mercadito in Chicago, and Mercadito in Miami. They also own and operate Double A, an intimate, exclusive cocktail lounge located beneath Mercadito in Chicago. Tavernita will also open in Miami this fall. For additional information, please visit www.mercaditohospitality.com and www.tavernita.com.

Featuring authentic and innovative signature tacos made with homemade corn tortillas, delicious guacamoles and salsas, plus a full bar and lounge with hand-crafted cocktails; the sleek and stylish Mexican eatery, with critically acclaimed locations in New York City and Chicago, Mercadito Midtown embraces the seductive flavors of traditional Southern Mexican regional cuisine with one-of-a-kind interpretations by chef/partner Patricio Sandoval. “We’ve been successful in bringing the best of our Mexican culture to the nation’s top metropolitan cities and Miami has been a perfect fit thus far,” says managing partner Alfredo Sandoval, one of three brothers who owns and operates the Mercadito family restaurant group. “For Midtown we’ve created a hip ambiance with an exciting, yet affordable, menu.”

Modeled after Mexico’s version of farmer’s markets, Mercadito, Spanish for “little market,” is designed to appeal to the fashionable, savvy gourmet. The Midtown restaurant, which seats 95 in the dining room, encompasses striking 3-D style art murals by urban graffiti artist Erni Vales. A lively lounge area, with an additional 24 seats, boasts a convivial bar and an outdoor patio. Mercadito Midtown also features a beautifully appointed semi-private dining room “El Mural” that will accommodate up to 50 guests for parties and events. A perfect alternative for those on-the-go, the taqueria, located adjacent to the restaurant, offers casual service, take-out, or delivery.

Mercadito’s menus, using the freshest ingredients available and served in small sharing portions, embrace the sociable approach that has been a Mercadito seal. One of the main attractions at Mercadito Midtown is the “guacamole, salsa and ceviche bar,” where a variety of savory guacamoles ($8.50 – $12.50), mouth-watering ceviches ($10.50), and spicy salsas ($2.50 – $4.50), are made in-house while guests watch. Signature guacamoles include avocados expertly blended with interesting ingredients such as: mango – jicama, chipotle, pico de gallo; mole poblano – plantain, mole poblano, chile Serrano, pico de gallo; and manzana – apple, tomatillo, almonds, habanero. Crispy chips accompany every order. Salsas, served with delicious corn bites, range from chipotle to cacahuate (peanuts).

Mercadito’s selection of mouth-watering tacos ($13.50) that come four to an order. These tasty delights include Chef Sandoval’s pescado tacos, made with pan seared tilapia, a bold chile poblano and tomatillo-garlic mojo, named “Best Fish Taco in New York City” by New York Magazine. Also designed to please palates, Mercadito’s signature estilo baja – beer battered mahi mahi, with coleslaw, drizzled with chipotle aioli; and pastor – succulent, chile-ancho rubbed pork, grilled pineapple, and chile de arbol salsa; one of the 11 different salsa varieties available.

Side dishes, para acompañar ($4.50 – $6.50), include arroz verde – green rice casserole with Oaxaca and manchego cheeses, a favorite among diners at Mercadito restaurants in New York and Chicago; elote Mexicano – Mexican style corn on the cob with lime mayonnaise and chile piquin, and rajas – mild roasted strips of poblano pepper and onion with hominy corn and crema fresca.

Here, seafood lovers can enjoy a variety of refreshing ceviches ($11.50 – $24.50). Stand-outs include camaron – shrimp, tangerine, roasted jalapeños, in a citrus-guajillo broth; callo de hacha – bay scallops, red apple, tomatillo pico de gallo, key lime-morita broth and mint; and, dorado – lime marinated mahi mahi, avocado and tomato, in a tangy orange-chile de arbol broth.

Botanas ($10.50) are a sumptuous collection of Mexican style appetizers such as tostadas de hongos – crispy corn tortillas, topped with wild mushrooms, pinto bean hash, manchego cheese, tomatillo salsa, and flavorful epazote crema fresca, and flautas – crispy tortillas filled with chicken barbacoa, served with black bean purée, tomatillo salsa and crema fresca. Meant to be shared with dining companions, and a perfect way to kick start any meal, is the queso fundido – baked Oaxaca and manchego cheeses served with a choice of wild mushrooms, rajas (roasted poblano strips), or chorizo.

A visit to Mercadito Midtown isn’t complete without a handcrafted margarita. Mercadito’s beverage program, created by Tippling Bros., (industry veterans and leading beverage experts, Paul Tanguay and Tad Carducci), features a dizzying array of Mexican tequilas and creative takes on traditional Mexican cocktails, along with an assortment of beers. Diners can wash down bites with individually muddled fresh fruit margaritas made with 100% blue agave tequila such as the Little Market (tequila reposado, fresh pineapple, chile guajillo, cilantro), or the Smokey Pablo (cien años reposado, mango, chile morita, blueberry float), among others.

For this distinctly urban location, the Sandoval brothers tapped New York City based Seed Design Studio to create a chic, welcoming restaurant boasting sleek banquets, handmade pyramid-shaped copper lights, and white quartz table tops accented with pale wood floors. Here, contemporary urban artist Erni Vales draws his own interpretation of Mexican history, cultural diversity, and ethnic multiplicity, showcasing stunning wall-to-wall 3-D graffiti style art murals.

Mercadito Midtown, located in Midtown Miami at 3252 NE First Avenue, is open seven days a week, serving daily lunch and dinner nightly. The taqueria, adjacent to the restaurant, offers casual service, take-out and delivery service from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. All major credit cards accepted; ample municipal parking is available. Reservations are recommended: (786) 369-0430 www.mercaditorestaurants.com

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Yay! Gen Art is Back!

{Note from the editor: We were members of Gen Art for years. They helped introduce us to Miami when we first moved here. We met many wonderful people through Gen Art and learned a lot about fashion, art and music. We were saddened when they shut down a couple years ago. Now, they are returning under new ownership and we at Soul Of Miami are very excited! Read the full press release below.}

February 22, 2011
Dear Friends,

Gen Art was built on the incredible dedication of its loyal audience. As an active supporter, you helped us sustain our mission of providing platforms and opportunities for emerging talent to showcase their work. It was with a heavy heart that Gen Art’s original founders had to close its doors in May after 16 years in business.

In December, Gen Art was acquired by Sandow Media, an innovative media company that recognized the value of the organization, the importance of its mission and the void that was left in its absence. We were thrilled when Sandow asked us to carry on in the legacy of the former leadership and help guide the company into the future. As former Gen Art SVPs who oversaw content and events for nearly a decade, we are deeply vested in Gen Art’s mission and passionate about preserving its core values.

In the coming year, we look forward to bringing you the best of Gen Art’s signature events as well as offering new and innovative programs. This spring Gen Art will return with an exciting line-up of national events kicking off with the Gen Art Film Festival which will take place this June in New York City. A full calendar of annual events and our new membership program will be announced in the coming weeks.

Your continued support is extremely important to us. We look forward to seeing you at our events and building the next chapter of this incredible organization together.

Kind regards,
Jeffrey Abramson & Elizabeth Shaffer
Co-Presidents

For more information about Gen Art, please visit www.genart.org.
Facebook: facebook.com/genartnational.
Follow Gen Art on Twitter @Gen_Art

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Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar Opens Third Location On Las Olas Boulevard In Downtown Fort Lauderdale

Owners Rocco Mangel & Big Time Restaurant Group (the company behind Big City Tavern) will open the doors to the third Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar on Saturday, February 19 on downtown Fort Lauderdale’s famed Las Olas Boulevard. The highly anticipated 6,600-square-foot indoor/outdoor restaurant will offer a full-sensory Mexican dining experience complete with live mariachi bands on occasion and free tequila pourings by Rocco himself. Diners can sample from over 225 varieties of tequila, nibble on guacamole prepared tableside and enjoy a traditional Mexican dinner at the playful restaurant that embodies the true spirit of Mexico.

Offering lunch, dinner and late night dining options seven days a week, Rocco’s Tacos is a welcomed addition to Broward County. “I’m excited to introduce Rocco’s Tacos to the Fort Lauderdale market, bringing the Rocco’s energy to an already thriving destination,” says owner Rocco Mangel.

Similar to the West Palm Beach and Boca Raton restaurants, the new location will offer a diverse menu with a distinct attention to detail including handmade corn tortillas cooked fresh on the restaurant’s Cormal, just as they’re made in kitchens throughout Mexico. Signature starters presented by Chef Adam Dombrowski include Esquitas (Mexican Street Corn) grilled with cotija cheese, cilantro and chile ‘d’arbol and the Camarones Patron with sautéed shrimp in tequila chipotle butter, scallions, tomatoes and nopales. Highlights of the main menu include California Fish Tacos, battered & fried mahi mahi with traditional cabbage slaw and jalapeno mayo, spicy white rice and black beans; Pollo Mole Poblano with grilled chicken breast, mole poblano, red rice, black beans and escabeche vegetables; and Carne con Chipotle, sliced flatiron steak grilled with smoky chipotle cream, sweet potato & spinach, and tomato salad.

Every Tuesday, guests can pick and choose from a selection of Rocco’s famed tacos from the Cochinitas Achiote (show roasted pork) or Hongos (mushroom) to Pesca (grilled or blacked mahi) and Carne Molida (spicy ground beef), to name a few, for their $14.95 all-you-can-eat Taco Tuesday celebration. The restaurant will also run daily happy hour specials with discounted drinks at the bar.

With seating available for up to 200 people, the restaurant is decorated with authentic Mexican flair purchased by Rocco himself at small villages throughout Mexico. Eight five oversized wicker lanterns adorn the trees outside the restaurant setting the scene as guests approach, while large hand crafted masks line the building to ward off evil spirits. Upon entering through the front door, guests are met with a colossal one-of-a-kind blown glass chandelier hanging above the reception area adding a touch of sparkle to the exposed brick walls and etched tin roof. Rocco’s signature star-shaped, punched-metal lantern chandeliers hang throughout the venue along with bright painted tribal masks and vintage movie posters. Unique to the Las Olas location is ‘The Wrestler Room,’ outfitted with images of famous Mexican luchadors, authentic black & white fight photos and a wall mural reading “Rocco vs Santo” – one of Mexico’s most celebrated wrestlers. The restaurant also has a 10-person private dining space, The Milagro Room, with glass encased display of Milagro’s vast selection of tequilas.

While the superior cuisine and cheerful décor have put the Rocco’s Tacos brand on the map, it’s Rocco’s “welcome to my house” attitude, contagious energy and show-stopping sense for creating an unforgettable experience that draws guests in again and again. When regulars hear the buzzword “Tequila!” echo through the restaurant, everyone prepares for Rocco to take his spot on the bar top, dancing feverishly in his legendary shiny-white shoes. The scene reads like one out of Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, sans the angry bikers, Rocco steps on ‘stage’ with a bottle of Patron in hand, ready to pour into eager patron’s mouths. This exhilarating display of merriment has made Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar a cherished destination and this location will be no exception.

Hours: Lunch 7-days-a-week 11:30am – 4:00pm; Dinner Sun – Wed 4:00 pm – 11:00pm; Dinner Thurs – Sat 4:00 – Midnight; Late Night Taco Menu 7-days-a-week until 3:00am

The new Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar is located at 1313 East Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL. You can also visit Rocco in West Palm Beach (224 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL |561.650.1001) or Boca Raton (5250 Town Center Circle, Boca Raton, FL | 561.416.2131). For more information: www.roccostacos.com or www.bigtimerestaurants.com.

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Chef Douglas Rodriguez Moves De Rodriguez Cuba From Washington Avenue to Ocean Drive South of Fifth

Chef Douglas Rodriguez Moves De Rodriguez Cuba From Washington Avenue To Ocean Drive South Of Fifth
New Location: Hilton Bentley
101 Ocean Drive
Miami Beach, FL

The restaurant is open seven days-a-week for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7AM to 11PM Monday – Thursday, 7AM to 12AM Friday and Saturday, and 7AM to 10PM on Sundays. For reservations please call 305.672.6624.

Hilton Bentley Location Combines Oceanfront Views with Signature Service and Cuban Cuisine

“The Godfather of Nuevo Latino Cuisine” and James Beard Award winning Chef Douglas Rodriguez announces the relocation of his signature restaurant De Rodriguez Cuba to Miami Beach’s chic South of Fifth neighborhood. Serving his acclaimed Cuban fare in the Hilton Bentley location, De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean will host guests ready to feast on ‘the best of the best’ from Chef Rodriguez.

Located on Ocean Drive, the aptly named De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean features an elegant, modern design, similar to the original. Showcasing Chef Rodriguez’s masterful Nuevo Latino culinary techniques, his renowned De Rodriguez Cuba menu will incorporate his delectable ceviche creations. De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean offers indoor and outdoor seating and two full bars, including one poolside and a 25-foot marble raw bar. The main dining room’s floor-to-ceiling windows open up to the hotel pool deck allowing the warm ocean breeze to pass easily through, setting the mood for a relaxing dining experience.

The inspired menu features Chef Rodriguez’s tried and true handcrafted tapas and delectable entrees including the Duck Duo of chive and scallions crepa stuffed with duck ropa vieja, candied walnuts and goat cheese/crispy duck leg served with tangerine demi-glace; Vaca Frita with avocado and tomato chimichurri, and Chicken Imperial of yellow rice with roasted peppers filled with chicken stew. Diners will be delighted by Chef Rodriguez’s 15 new unique and sumptuous ceviche varieties including Big Eye Tuna and Watermelon with kumquat, yuzu, thai basil and tarragon, Main Lobster Thai infused with coconut water and thai chili, Mixed Seafood with mussel, clam, shrimp, octopus, calamari, lime juice, aji amarillo and sweet potato slices, as well as De Rodriguez Cuba’s acclaimed Conch and Snapper topped with tomato, red pepper, crispy onions and garlic.

Embracing the Latin culture on all fronts, guests will indulge in De Rodriguez Cuba’s tempting collection of Cuban-style cocktails including the Old Cuban and Pink Elephant. The restaurant also features a comprehensive wine list including Opus 1, Far Niente and Jordan. De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean integrates the Cuban culture’s celebration of live music with nighttime performances every Thursday through Sunday, including Afro-Cuban Funk group PALO! entertaining guests on the first Thursday of the month.

Combining exquisite service, cuisine and an unprecedented dining experience, De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean offers the perfect balance of Cuban favorites paired with delectable ocean-inspired ceviche dishes. De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean offers complimentary parking and is located in the Hilton Bentley at 101 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. The restaurant is open seven days-a-week for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7AM to 11PM Monday – Thursday, 7AM to 12AM Friday and Saturday, and 7AM to 10PM on Sundays. For reservations please call 305.672.6624.

Paragon Theatres at Cocowalk launches Backlot Wine Bar & Lounge & Private Screening Room By Betty Alvarez

Paragon Movie Theaters at CocoWalk (Paragon Grove 13), the all- new entertainment complex located in the heart of Coconut Grove finalized “phase two” of their concept– The Backlot Wine Bar & Lounge. With a grand opening on January 14th, The Backlot is “the perfect movie companion”, featuring a variety of international wines and beer as well as small plate food offerings such as cheese boards, flatbreads, and desserts. The Backlot also houses the much-anticipated “Prestige Audi Private Screening Room”. The Screening Room, with its 25’ Jumbo Screen, will host a variety of free public events and live TV broadcasts and will be available to book for private parties and screenings. Parking for Backlot and Paragon guests is $2 in the Cocowalk garage.

Over the next couple of weeks, The Backlot will host a sneak preview of the wine bar as well as free programming in the private screening room including the NFL playoffs, Miami Heat games, and classic films viewings. Future events include parties for Grammy Awards and The Academy Awards. Visit www.BacklotBar.com for the full schedule of events.

Paragon Grove 13 opened its doors in June after a $4 million dollar renovation to the existing complex that included all-stadium (and reserved) seating, all-digital Sony 4k projection, 3D screens, a complete floor to ceiling “face lift”, and an updated concession stand serving beer and wine. “We wanted to open the theater as quickly as possible because we knew the local residents and business were suffering with out one, but our premier concept always included more. We’re so excited to see the full vision come to fruition,” explains Mike Whalen, Paragon’s CEO. He continues, “Our amenity package creates the best theater going experience in Miami, at a price point similar to other Miami theaters. We’ve established a unique ‘companion’ to the theater where our audience can enjoy a drink and a bite before or after a movie, watch a game at our bar or a viewing in our screening room, or host a private event in a way that doesn’t exist anywhere else in the market.”

Mirroring the modern design of the theater and in support of local artists, Paragon commissioned famed Miami pop-artist Stephen Gamson to create exclusive pieces for the Backlot space. “It is often at a movie theater where new friendships are forged, taste is defined and our minds can travel. My art relates to pop culture and communication, therefore, I am especially excited to be a part of this experience,” says Gamson of the exciting installation.

The Prestige Audi Screening Room, a partnership with the country’s number one Audi dealership, will serve as an exciting entertainment venue. A permanent calendar of events will include weekly classic and foreign film nights, art presentations, concerts and live TV broadcasts such as Miami Heat games and American Idol. Additionally, patrons can rent out the venue for private parties, screenings, sports viewings, or meetings. “I can’t think of anywhere else you can see a UM game on a 25’ Jumbo Screen during the day and watch a screening of the Godfather at night,” says Whalen.

Visit www.paragontheaters.com or www.backlotbar.com for more information.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

From Ocala Mountain Bike Association: Greenway trails are at risk again!

Originally posted from the Ocala Mountain Bike Association:

An Important message from Rob Ern of OMBA – Greenway trails are at risk again!
Here we go again! The current budget cuts proposed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection call for eliminating the Office of Greenways and Trails and closing 53 state parks, including the San Felasco State Preserve (Home of the Tour de Felasco), and Big Shoals in White Springs (Home of the Ididaride).

A complete list can be found here: http://audubonoffloridanews.org/?p=6830

The proposed budget in the House can be viewed by going to http://www.myfloridahouse.gov, click on Committees, click on Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee, then click on the Meeting Packets link on the right, then download the .pdf for the January 26, 2011 meeting. Items 50 and 52 on page 40 give the details.

A similar bill is in committee in the Senate.

Call your legislators NOW!!
Email the chairs of the committees. The chair of the House Committee is Trudi Williams and the chair of the Senate Committee is Alan Hays.
Representative Williams email address is: trudi.williams@myfloridahouse.gov
Senator Hays’ email address is: hays.alan.web@flsenate.gov

The rest of the members of the House committee are as follows:
Trudi.Williams@myfloridahouse.gov
Steve.Crisafulli@myfloridahouse.gov
Leonard.Bembry@myflioridahouse.gov
Ben.Albritton@myfloridahouse.com
Frank.Artiles@myfloridahouse.gov
Jim.Boyd@myfloridahouse.gov
Luis.Garcia@myfloridahouse.gov
Tom.Goodson@myfloridahouse.gov
Clay.Ingram@myfloridahouse.gov
George.Moraitis@myfloridahouse.gov
Steven.Perman@myfloridahouse.gov
Elizabeth.Porter@myfloridahouse.gov
Vasilinda.Rehwinkel@myfloridahouse.gov
Patrick.Rooney@myfloridahouse.gov
Franklin.Sands@myfloridahouse.gov
Stephanie.Massengale@myflorida.gov

Senate General Government Appropriations Committee member information is as follows:
Chair: Senator D. Alan Hays hays.alan.web@flsenate.gov
Vice Chair: Senator Lizbeth Benacquisto benacquisto.lizbeth.web@flsenate.gov
Senator Larcenia J. Bullard bullard.larcenia.web@flseante.gov
Senator Miguel Diaz de la Portilla portilla.miguel.web@flsenate.gov
Senator Anthony C. “Tony” Hill, Sr. hill.tony.web@flsenate.gov
Senator Dennis L. Jones, D.C. jones.dennis.web@flsenate.gov
Senator Jack Latvala latvala.jack.web@flsenate.gov

Please email or call the Chairs first, then move on to the other committee members as you have time.

Below are some important statistics you can use in your correspondence.
With an estimated $3.5Billion budget shortfall this fiscal year, now more than ever, we need our voices heard! The new Governor has stressed that economic development and tourism are two of his top priorities, and visitors to State Parks and Greenways are great examples of tourists spending money!

Do your part to help preserve some of the best trails in the State of Florida!
For the trails,
Rob Ern, VP
OMBA

Kimberly Green, president of the Miami-based Green Family Foundation, Nominated for Two Grammy Awards

Kimberly Green, president of the Miami-based Green Family Foundation (GFF), will be heading to Los Angeles to attend the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards this weekend. Why? Because she and her colleagues received not one but two Grammy nominations.

It’s all because of a beautiful collection entitled Alan Lomax in Haiti: Recordings for the Library of Congress, 1936-1937, which has been nominated for Best Historical Album and Best Album Notes. Ms. Green and GFF were primary funding partner for the 10-disc box set, which was released by Harte Recordings in conjunction with Anna Lomax Wood’s Association for Cultural Equity and restored at New York’s legendary The Magic Shop by engineer/producer Warren Russell-Smith, who’s making his second foray to the Awards (Russell-Smith won in 2007 for Woody Guthrie: The Live Wire). Noted Haiti scholar Gage Averil has been nominated for his extensive liner notes.

Ms. Green and GFF has been active in Haiti for more than a decade, and her work ranges from community health and development to cultural repatriation and preservation. The former includes a partnership with Columbia University’s Earth Institute and the establishing of the Haiti Policy Program (which helps to support the Haiti Policy Advisor position currently held by Dr. Tatiana Wah, who provides economic policy advice to the President and Government of Haiti).

The latter includes partnering with Fastforward Haiti for the Sinema Anba Zetwal (Cinema Under the Stars) “Food for Souls” tour (which followed the 2010 earthquake’s fault-line and was attended by upwards of 250,000), where Haitians were given a first-hand look and listen to the Alan Lomax films and recordings, which President Clinton called “an exemplary commitment to action.”

Ms. Green, who directed and produced the award-winning documentary Once There Was a Country: Revisiting Haiti (narrated by Dr. Maya Angelou and Guy Johnson), also oversees the Cultural Committee for the Clinton Global Initiative Haiti Action Network.

In her native Miami, Ms. Green and GFF fund a number of initiatives, among them the Little Haiti-based Youth Expressions program (which addresses everything from HIV/AIDS prevention to gang intervention and has become a harbor for at-risk youth) and “A Photographic History of Black Miami” (a permanent exhibit curated by 34-year veteran FIU professor Dr. Marvin Dunn and located in Camillus House’s Brownsville Christian Housing Center).

Furthermore, Ms. Green and GFF’s close association with FIU has resulted in the creation of both the Steven and Dorothea Green Library and the Digital Library of the Caribbean, as well as the establishing of NeighborhoodHELP (Health, Education, Learning, Program), where students of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine work with medically underserved families throughout Miami-Dade County.

Aaron’s Catering To Launch Gourmet Food Truck

High-End Caterer To Launch Gourmet Food Truck

Chef Brian Aaron, Creator of Miami-based Aaron’s Catering, announced today plans for Aaron’s Catering Express. The latest venture for the 30-year-old chef will compliment the burgeoning Miami Food Truck Phenomenon that has become mobile gourmet.

“I wanted to take the experience of Aaron’s Catering mobile,” says Aaron. “ACE (Aaron’s Catering Express) is modern, fresh and most importantly—affordable.

The 26-foot truck will feature many of the catering company’s signature dishes with a twist. Blending American and South American flavors, items will range from Nitro Dip N Dots ($2) using Liquid Nitrogen, Pulled Short Rib ($6), Queso Frito ($5), Yucca Bites ($5) and a variety of signature non-alcoholic beverages and Artesian waters like Mint Cucumber.

Aaron’s Catering Express will also boast a 40-inch plasma television and state of the art sound system on its façade that will show sporting events and live social media feeds.

“Social media is a definitely not a trend! “ comments Aaron, who plans to attract much of his patrons via Twitter and Facebook. “We will give updates on our location via twitter, as well as take requests on where to serve up the experience next.”

Aaron’s Catering Express will operate under the @aaronscatering Twitter username with the hash tag #aaronscateringexpress. The new company can also be found at www.facebook/aaronscateringexpress.

Aaron’s Catering Express is slated for debut on February 25TH (location TBD) and also during the 10th Annual Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival’s Grand Tasting Village on February 26th. The mobile truck will be operational 7 days a week at various Miami locations including Tamiami (12795 SW 137 Ave), Wynwood (around NW 22nd Street), and Bayfont Park. Additionally, the truck’s façade will be totally customizable and available for private events.

Aaron’s Catering is located at 5451 NW 72nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33166. Founded by celebrity chef Brian Aaron in 2004, the company provides innovative cuisine and an unmatched level of service. Aaron’s also boasts a Paellas, Traditional, Kosher, Mixology and Staffing division under its full-service umbrella.

Posted in News   

Knight Arts Challenge Contest Opens For Applications Through March 2, 2011

Knight Arts Challenge Contest Opens For Applications


Starting today, South Floridians can begin applying for a share of millions in funding through the fourth annual Knight Arts Challenge. The community-wide contest to find the best ideas for the arts in South Florida is sponsored by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

Applications will be accepted through March 2 at KnightArts.org.

There are only three rules for applying: The idea is about the arts; the project takes place in or benefits South Florida; and applicants must find other funding to match the Knight Foundation grant.

Individuals, nonprofits and for profit organizations are eligible to apply.
In just three years, Knight Foundation has invested $17.5 million in projects for the Challenge, which aims to bring South Florida together through the arts. Local arts supporters are doubling that amount with matching funds.

In 2010, the winning ideas included commissioning original films telling unique Miami stories through the Borscht Film Festival, exposing 130,000 Miami-Dade students to the arts through an annual field trip and promoting traditional Haitian art through a youth training program in Homestead.

“This contest is about innovative ideas, artistic excellence and inspiring our community. The best projects will help weave culture into the everyday fabric of this region. We want to hear from everyone with a great idea,” said Dennis Scholl, Miami program director for Knight Foundation, who leads the initiative.

Have an idea? Visit www.KnightArts.org through March 2. The two-question application is designed to be simple to attract applicants who aren’t traditional grant seekers.

About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation advances journalism in the digital age and invests in the vitality of communities where the Knight brothers owned newspapers. Knight Foundation focuses on projects that promote informed and engaged communities and lead to transformational change. For more, visit www.knightfoundation.org.

Posted in News   

Action Alert from Miami Design Preservation League: Storefront Billboard Advertising Proposed

BILLBOARD SIGNAGE PROPOSED FOR VACANT STOREFRONTS – AGAIN!
by Miami Design Preservation League

THE ISSUE:
Once again, a proposal to allow full-window signage in store windows has been proposed and will be considered by the Miami Beach City Commission.

The proposal would weakening and liberalize the city’s proven signage laws and seriously harm Miami Beach’s unique character by allowing billboard-sized ads in store windows AND OPEN THE DOOR FOR BILLBOARDS TO BE ERECTED ON THE TOP OF BUILDINGS ALL OVER MIAMI BEACH.

The proposal will be discussed at the Miami Beach Commission’s Land Use and Development Committee meeting on Monday, January 31, 2011. The meeting will begin at 4 PM in the 4th Floor Conference Room.

The justification for weakening the law is that it will allow the city to raise additional revenue by charging a fee for the signage. However, raising minimal additional revenue is not a reason to sacrifice the special appeal that brings residents and tourists to Miami Beach.

Our unique design and architecture allows Miami Beach to stand out from all the other cities in Florida – and indeed the entire nation. Allowing offensive signs to proliferate would drive away the very people who pay real estate taxes, spend money in stores, hotels and restaurants and pump our economic engine.

As originally proposed two months ago, the new law was intended to help landlords defray costs of vacant stores and cover empty store fronts. But that would mean landlords would have reduced incentive to fill the empty stores since they would be earning high additional revenue from the giants signs.

Now, the City Attorney and outside counsel have reviewed the proposal. Their opinion: allowing billboard-sized ads in windows would open the door to challenges to the city’s ban on ANY billboards or giants signs. Hungry landlords could legally justify erecting giant, illuminated signs all over town. Such signs would loom over the streets, destroy the skyline and ruin the character of Miami Beach.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:
Attend the Commission’s Land Use and Development Committee meeting.
When: Monday, January 31, 2010 at 4 PM.
Where: Miami Beach City Hall, City Manager’s Large Conference Room, 4th Floor.

and…or

Write the Mayor and Commissioners:
The names and emails of the Mayor and Commissioners are as follows:
Matti Herrera Bower, Mayor, City of Miami Beach matti@miamibeachfl.gov
Michael Gongora, Vice Mayor, City of Miami Beach michael@miamibeachfl.gov
Jorge Exposito, Commissioner, City of Miami Beach jorge@miamibeachfl.gov
Jerry Libbin, Commissioner, City of Miami Beach jerry@miamibeachfl.gov
Edward Tobin, Commissioner, City of Miami Beach, ed@miamibeachfl.gov
Deede Weithorn, Commissioner, City of Miami Beach, deede@miamibeachfl.gov
Jonah Wolfson, Commissioner, City of Miami Beach jonah@miamibeachfl.gov

Please send your emails as soon as possible. And please pass this on to as many friends as you like!

Don’t allow our the special character of Miami Beach to be cheapened by large-scale billboard advertising.

Miami Design Preservation League
A non-profit preservation and arts organization founded in 1976, Miami Design Preservation League, Inc. is devoted to preserving, protecting and promoting the architectural, cultural, social, economic, and environmental integrity of the Miami Beach and surrounding areas.

MDPL is the oldest Art Deco Society in the world.

Mailing Address:
PO Box 190180
Miami Beach, FL 33119-0180

Administrative Office:
Art Deco Welcome Center
2nd Floor
1001 Ocean Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33139
305.672.2014
www.MDPL.org

South Beach Newest Condominium Boulan South Beach Offers Interiors by Steven G and Dwell Deux

Dwell Deux Offers Signature Interior Design Packages to the Residents of Boulan South Beach, the Newest Condominium in the Heart of South Beach

Boulan South Beach, a new luxury real estate property located at the epicenter of several travel, shopping and fine dining destinations, topples neighboring developments with the addition of turnkey interior design packages from Dwell Deux. Led by Miami based furniture designers Ashley Townsend and Krista Patrick, Dwell Deux’s subsidiary, DDIY (don’t do it yourself), creates fully articulated residences for new buyers’ ease and convenience, that offer modern high design furnishings at affordable prices.

As the company flourishes through client projects in South Florida, the Caribbean, and the Middle East, the staff has expanded to include Selim Raad, President and Director of Operations and Dan Fickett, Creative Director. Together, they have created a revolutionary company that helps buyers transition into their new homes by providing custom interior and product designs, a new home furnishings catalog, and a revolving list of features and options from furniture basics to ready to live-in condo units.

Discerning residents at Boulan South Beach will have the option of choosing from three distinct package styles: Curve, radiating a bright modernist feel; Weave, featuring soft contemporary styling; and Svelte, evoking an Italian design aesthetic. All three Basic Furniture Packages can be finessed with DDIY’s Finishing Touches and Finale Collections, to include everything from fine linens and art to electronics, allowing residents to easily move into their already-designed lives. One bedroom furniture packages start at $12,900.

For additional information regarding these packages, please visit www.dwelldeux.com, www.ddiymiami.com, or phone 866-734-7774.

International Design Company, Interiors by Steven G Provides Class and Style to South Beach’s Newest Condominium, Boulan South Beach

Miami, FL (December 20, 2010) – Luxury interior designer with over 36 years of top industry experience, Interiors by Steven G has been commissioned by Boulan South Beach to design the lobby, three varying model packages, a Zen meditation garden / courtyard and collaborate on the design of the building’s roof-top pool deck area. Interiors by Steven G has provided design packages for several famed properties through the South Florida region, and is currently working on the largest LEED Certified project in the United States with their LEED Accredited licensed interior designers.

Interiors by Steven G has also worked in such places as; Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Bahrain Honduras, the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, the British Virgin Islands and Costa Rica. Recently the design company has completed projects in Manhattan, Oyster Bay Cove, Hamptons, Mahwah, NJ, North Carolina, Des Moines, Iowa (mentioning a few) and throughout the state of Florida. Their in-house staff of Licensed Interior Designers, Designer Architects, Technical Designers and Design Renderers assists buyers through a step-by-step process, and provides a view of the finished product prior to installation to ensure ultimate customer satisfaction. In addition, the company staffs a librarian who maintains over 1,500 catalogs from various venders allowing the design team an extraordinary selection of choice.

At Boulan South Beach, Interiors by Steven G has created three model unit packages, each designed in a soft, contemporary style with different color palettes certain to appeal to any sophisticated and refined buyer. The Lobby design boasts elegance and sophistication with fabulous, colorful art work throughout complying with the art deco, urban lifestyle of South Beach. Control and supervision by their Interior Designers and On Site Project Managers are visible in every step of the design process thus allowing Interiors by Steven G Inc. to be a major force in the industry, and setting them apart from their competition.

About Boulan South Beach Boulan South Beach brings to life the combination of contemporary living captured within art deco architecture, redefining an urban lifestyle on a beach setting. Boulan South Beach is ideally located between the W South Beach and The Setai South Beach, an area surrounded by a superior and elegant lifestyle that offers world-class shopping, art fashion, culture, nightlife and dining along one of the premiere beaches of the world. The building’s 52-residences boast completely finished interiors with ocean or city views – designed to entice, seduce and create a personal sanctuary with design packages from renowned design firm, Interiors by Steven G. Residents and visitors alike will experience its eclectic style and abundant amenities including 24-hour valet, concierge reception, boutique lobby and common areas, a meditation garden and courtyard, fitness center, landscaped roof-top oasis with pool, Jacuzzi and cabana beds, private beach services with shopping and dining in Parc Place Shops located in the lower level. Boulan South Beach offers one and two bedroom units, as well as penthouses featuring both a balcony and roof-top terrace to satisfy even the savviest outdoor entertainer. Slated to open in January 2011, Boulan South Beach is destined to be South Florida’s ultimate residence. For more information on Boulan South Beach, please visit www.Boulansouthbeach.com or call the sales center at 305.538.7661

48th Coconut Grove Arts Festival Announces Guy Harvey as 2011 Commemorative Poster Artist

Guy Harvey Selected To Create 2011 Poster For Coconut Grove Arts Festival®

Renowned marine wildlife artist and conservationist Guy Harvey has been selected to create the 2011 poster for the 48th annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival®. The South Florida festival will be held February 19-21, 2011.

Admired for his unique blend of sincere scientific observation and exploratory artistry, Harvey’s work comes as result of complete and utter devotion to the subjects he paints. He is most widely recognized for his brightly colored depiction of warm water marine sport fish in their natural settings, with mediums including water color, oil, and acrylic. His original paintings and his depictions of sea life have also been featured as wall murals and in apparel lines popular with sport fishermen.

Growing up in Jamaica, Harvey spent many hours fishing and diving with his father. While he often replicated the natural creations he observed daily in paintings, his fascination with marine biology initially drew him to a career in the sciences. He attended Scotland’s Aberdeen University, graduating with highest honors in Marine Biology in 1977, and shortly after obtained a Doctorate degree in Fisheries Management from the University of the West Indies.

He returned to Jamaica in 1985 and exhibited a series of 44 original pen and ink drawings which depicted the story of “The Old Man & the Sea.” A result of the exhibition’s success, Harvey began painting full time by 1988 and began traveling the world to gain more knowledge of marine life, diving into the world of underwater photography and painting.

Harvey is also an advocate for marine conservation and the cofounder of the Guy Harvey Research Institute at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as well as the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation. His leadership in assisting to provide necessary scientific information has advanced the marine biology community into better understanding marine biodiversity and protecting the world’s fisheries.

“With Biscayne Bay serving as its backdrop, it would seem only natural that the Festival select an artist who represents the true South Floridian spirit and champions the inspirational beauty of the place we call home,” said Monty Trainer, president of the Arts Festival.

The Coconut Grove Arts Festival is produced by the non-profit Coconut Grove Arts and Historical Association. Proceeds help fund year-round arts programs and benefit a building fund that will create a permanent home for the Arts Festival. The association also maintains the Coconut Grove Arts Festival Gallery and presents special exhibitions throughout the year from its location at the Shoppes at Mayfair.

Since its inception in 1963, the association has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to students who attend fine arts programs in local schools. For more information or to purchase tickets for the Arts Festival online, visit www.CGAF.com.

Call For Artists: Be featured at SCOPE Art Show during Armory Week 2011 in New York City with Artists Wanted : A Year in Review

Call For Artists
Artists Wanted : A Year in Review is an international, all-medium-encompassing open call for art. This is your moment to share your work with the world and have a chance at $25,000 in grants and prizes, international publicity and a feature exhibition in SCOPE Art Show during Armory Week in New York City. This is your call to be discovered.

Deadline to Enter is Friday January 28, 2011 11:59pm EST

You are invited to submit your best artwork to:
Artists Wanted : A Year in Review
We are looking for stunning work from the best emerging artists of the year. This is your moment to share your vision with the world and have a chance at $25,000 in grants and awards, international publicity, a feature exhibition in SCOPE Art Show during Armory Week 2011 in New York City, and an art-star reception at the SCOPE Art Night Event produced by Artists Wanted.
You did the hard part, making great work. Now share it with the world:

Click Here to begin your submission.

Posted in News   

Life Is Art Official Call For Artists for River Of Art at Bar 721, Deadline January 22, 2011

Life Is Art is now accepting applications for exhibiting at the River of Art Event at Bar 721 on February 23, 2011. All forms and styles of art are considered, visual, music, performance and design.

River of Art is an ongoing series of art showcases in venues all over Miami and south Florida. Each event showcases south Florida artists in an exciting and unique atmosphere. For February, Bar 721 in Miami Beach has graciously offered their space to host this fun event.

Application Deadline: January 22, 2011
Application Fee: FREE
Hanging Fee: $5.00 per piece (paid on the date of event)
Each artist may submit up to 4 pieces for consideration.
We are also looking for music/DJ and performance artists.
Applicants will be notified no later than January 24th, 2011 if they have been accepted.

For all the details and to apply, CLICK HERE.

The Adventures of Bibi and Friends Announces Special Miami and New York Issue

Become your own comic book character!
The Adventures of Bibi & Friends Announces Special Miami & New York Issue

Advertisers interested in being a part of this special issue should reserve their space now. Please visit the website and click advertising on the menu bar!
Advertising deadline: February 25, 2011.
Comic character reservation deadline: February 18, 2011).

Celebrated “Emerging Creative Minds You Need To Know For 2011” artist & publisher Brigitte Andrade, invites you to become a “Piece of Art or a Bibi Sponsor”. “The Adventures of Bibi & Friends is offering an opportunity for your businesses and for scensters, fashionistas & local celebrities to become an animated character and appear in the comic guide book as themselves.

The 13th edition of  The Adventures of Bibi & Friends will promote your businesses to the trend-setters and affluent crowd that call both New York and Miami their home as well as the international travelers that frequent both cities. The Adventures of Bibi & Friends has been a popular guide among Miami locals and tourist for years and this issue will become a keeper for residents and fans of both cities. This issue will be distributed at key spots and venues in both cities throughout 2011.

Eurocinema Movie Channel Delivers Award-Winning International Films To Miami On-Demand

Eurocinema Movie Channel Delivers Award-Winning International Films To North America On-Demand

Extensive catalog of feature films, documentaries & shorts diversifies home entertainment

eurocinema, a foreign film channel available on-demand, serves as the leading provider of internationally-acclaimed theatrical features for the U.S. and Canada. Its unique block programming consists of contemporary and classic European pictures, documentaries, shorts and more; most never-before-seen in North America. Since eurocinema’s launch in 2005, the brand has expanded to over 31 million homes; spanning all major markets including: New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Washington D.C., San Francisco and Toronto.

eurocinema offers up to fifteen titles monthly from various Western and Eastern European countries. The channel’s carefully selected catalog showcases a combination of celebrated movies, actors and directors including the Academy Award-nominated film Avenue Montaigne; Hollywood star Mads Mikkelsen (Casino Royale; Clash of the Titans) and multiple Cannes Film Festival award-winner director Emir Kusturica (Underground; Time of the Gypsies). Each feature film ($4.95) is accompanied by a short film and is available to the consumer for a period of 24-hours; during which viewers may pause, fast-forward or rewind content. eurocinema introduces five new films monthly; with selections available for a four month period. Bonus features include director commentary, celebrity interviews and coverage of major international film festivals.

“The goal of eurocinema is to expose a wide range of subscribers to quality European box office films they would not typically experience,” says Sebastien Perioche, Chairman/CEO of Euromedia Holdings, eurocinema’s parent company. “I believe the popular response to the concept is a testament to its convenient access, affordability, and the increasing demand for culturally-stimulating alternatives to Hollywood pictures.” A Harvard alum and entertainment pioneer, Perioche has successfully created the first movie channel to make award-winning international content available domestically. Perioche has achieved this by aligning himself with proven industry executives such as E! Entertainment Television co-founder Larry Namer, eurocinema’s Senior Advisor of Strategic Development, who has played a large part in the company’s overall success.

A benchmark in eurocinema’s expansion occurred in August 2010, when the channel was picked up by Comcast cable network. Other major distributors include Time Warner, Cablevision, Verizon, Charter, RCN, and DIRECTV, leaving the company poised to reach a projected 40 million households by the year 2012.

About eurocinema
eurocinema is the leading provider of European films, available on-demand. eurocinema offers viewers access to a unique selection of award-winning box office films with a few clicks of a remote, 24/7. Available in over 31 million U.S. and Canadian homes; eurocinema can be found under the Indies/Foreign/International Film category of cable or satellite provider’s On-Demand menu. For more information visit www.eurocinema.com.

Sebastien Perioche / Chairman & CEO, EuroMediaHoldings, Corp.
Sebastien Perioche, 37-years-old, is a French-born media entrepreneur dedicated to promoting the European arts and entertainment experience worldwide. As Chairman and CEO of EuroMediaHoldings, Corp., Perioche launched eurocinema in 2005, the first and only film channel providing internationally-acclaimed theatrical features to the U.S. and Canada on-demand. eurocinema’s unique block programming consists of contemporary and classic European pictures, documentaries, shorts and more – most never before seen in North America.

As an international scholar with a keen understanding of global business and cultural practices, Perioche specializes in bringing European products and investors to the United States. He is responsible for eurocinema’s development strategy, in addition to managing relationships with international film distributors. He has ensured his company’s overall success by surrounding himself with proven industry veterans such as former E! Entertainment Television co-founder Larry Namer.

“The goal of eurocinema is to expose a wide range of subscribers to quality European box office films they would not typically experience,” says Perioche. “I believe the popular response to the concept is a testament to its convenient access, affordability, and the increasing demand for culturally stimulating alternatives to Hollywood pictures.”

A benchmark of Perioche’s success occurred in August 2010 when the eurocinema channel was picked up by Comcast cable network. The burgeoning brand now reaches more than 31 million homes, spanning all major markets, including New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Toronto, with a projected reach of 40 million households by the year 2012. Other major distributors for eurocinema include Time Warner, Cablevision, Verizon, Charter, RCN and DIRECTV.
Perioche earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Switzerland’s University of Lausanne in 1993. He attended Harvard University for a graduate program in Finance and Economics in 1997.

Naila new luxury swimwear line to debut at Miami store Follow The Sun

Naila New Luxury Swimwear Line To Hit Miami Stores In December 2010
The collection is for the first time hitting USA stores starting with Miami newly chic opened
“Follow The Sun”
Miracle Marketplace, 3301 SW 22nd street, Coral Gables

Naïla is a new high-end swimwear line just launched last July 2010 at the Miami Swim Fashion Week. The men collection was presented at the Raleigh hotel and the full collection at the Swim Show.

Based in New York, the women collection is made with high-end Italian Lycra with UV protection, extra comfort, and chlorine resistance features for extra life. The collection is chic with Mediterranean looks. Charming and elegant, the line sparkles with harmony of solid bright colors and vibrant wild prints. From fully lined comfortable triangle, to laser cuts one piece, architectural monokinis, the collection targets a well educated and traveled women looking for quality, cuts and dazzling looks.

The men trunk short collection is made out of recycled eco friendly polyester produced with plastic bottles. The men line redefines luxury eco chic designs with European classic cuts and customized colorful stripes. Sport chic combining casual elegance with impeccable taste and quality, the collection offers two lengths options 8’’ inseam and 3’’ inseam, along with Italian lycra briefs and culottes. The collection also has the option to have boy’s shorts from 6 years old to 14 years old customized to match any of daddy’s eco chic shorts.

You can visit the links for our men Fashion Show at IMG Fashion week Miami in July:
miami.mbfashionweek.com/miami/11/designers/naila/index.html
www.youtube.com/watch?v=28leNWEK3Ds

The designer behind the line, Naïla Chbib, is Franco-Swiss and has studied at prestigious Parsons School in NYC. Enhanced by her academic experience as well as her investment with fashion industry leaders, Naïla did many internship in well known fashion house from Donna Karen, Allesandro’Dell Aqua and Liz Claiborne. Her creativity and love for the sea lead to create her own line launched in Miami last July 2010.

Cigar Concierge

Cigar Concierge
To learn about the Cigar Concierge, call us at 786-566-1550 or email Robert@TheHotelHumidor.com.
www.hechahumo.com

Gables Cigar Company Launches Concierge Shopping Services
Local Cigar Expert Will Help You Shop for the Men in Your LIfe

The Hotel Humidor Company (HHC) is proud to announce the launch of “Cigar Concierge”, its custom-tailored cigar service just in time for the holiday shopping season. Robert Caldwell, the 27-year-old president of HHC and a cigar aficionado, will manage the concierge services, assisting clients and hosting cigar pairings. Robert created the service primarily to help women shop for the men in their lives – assorted relatives, bosses and boyfriend(s).

Until now, HHC cigar services were exclusively available to a hand-selected group of top hotels and restaurants, including: The Four Seasons Hotel, Epic Hotel, One Bal Harbour, Bourbon Steak at The Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort, The Conrad Hotel and The Tides, just to name a few.

Now HHC staff will help clients select the perfect cigar as a gift, taking the guesswork out of the otherwise mysterious cigar world. Our Cigar Concierge services include the following:

In-home cigar tastings and pairings. Take a look at our exclusive brand, Hecha Humo.

Membership into our monthly cigar club (complete with a full menu that suggests time of day to smoke the cigars, liquor and beverage pairings, as well as a full description and history of the brand, blend and size).

Customized cigar selections. Call us and tell us about who the cigars are going to and we will find the right fit for his or her palate. Humidors, lighters, cutters and cigar flasks.

All of the cigars sold by HHC undergo a rigorous screening to ensure that only the finest cigars end up in your humidor. To learn about the Cigar Concierge, call us at 786-566-1550 or email Robert@TheHotelHumidor.com.

The Hotel Humidor Co. is based in Coral Gables, Florida and produces Hecha Humo Cigars. The Hotel Humidor Company offers hospitality and service-related businesses the opportunity to add cigar revenues to their retail sales. The company strategically places top selling cigars and humidors in restaurants, hotels and retail stores, boosting overall revenues. Visit HechaHumo.com.

Posted in News   

Knight Foundation Arts Challenge 2010 Winners to Be Announced November 29, 2010

Great ideas flooded from all over Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties in March 2010 into the Knight Foundation to receive funding as part of the $40 million Knight Arts Challenge.

Iin just three years, the Knight Foundation has invested $16 mil. in arts challenge projects- an amount that local arts supporters will double with matching funds.

The rules were simple: Bring the community together through the arts.

Miami is transforming, as we speak. The winners of the 3rd round of funding will be announced on Monday, Nov. 29.

This will mark the third year of Knight Foundation’s five-year, $40 million investment help make art anywhere in South Florida. The KF believes in Miami as a cultural destination and in art as a way to bind the community. Just like the past 2 years, the KF asked the community to submit their best ideas for the arts in South Florida. At deadline, they received 950 applications, certainly, a testament to this community’s creativity.

www.knightarts.org

Posted in News   

Songwriter Jamie Jo Harris Launches Belle Coeur at Jackie Abraham Fine and Estate Jewelry with Exclusive Reception

Hit songwriter Jamie Jo Harris held an exclusive launch event for her rock-inspired jewelry line Belle Coeur at Jackie Abraham Fine & Estate Jewelry on November 18, 2010. Hosted by Harris, collaborator Rosalina Lydster of Jewelry by Rosalina along with Jackie Abraham and wife Johanna, the soiree drew a packed house.

Guests included socialite Claudine Smurfit, celebrity wig designer Ruth Regina, Miami luxury real estate giant Rusty Stein, Bay Harbour Islands Vice-Mayor Ileene Wallace, Femme Coiffure Hair Salon & Spa owner Raphael Reboh and wife Alyssa, former banker-turned-professor and Star Jones’ ex-husband Al Reynolds, and the designer’s parents, prominent businessman Mel Harris and wife Fran, who sipped specialty Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur champagne cocktails and nibbled on Belle Coeur-branded bite-sized cupcakes provided by 2 Girls and a Cupcake, while perusing the line’s debut collection and mingling with designer Jamie Jo and her collaborator.

Channeling Jamie Jo’s love of music, fashion and philanthropy, Belle Coeur (literally, a “beautiful heart” in French) features a selection of unisex, interlocking pendants, cuffs, rings and earrings marked with the line’s signature agate-, white, pink and black sapphire-encrusted symbols of wings, hearts and keys, which embody Jamie Jo’s free spirit. Notably, a portion of proceeds from the sales of Belle Coeur during the event will be donated to charity. Prices range from $400 to $5,000. For more information on Belle Coeur, please visit www.BelleCoeur.cc.

In addition to launching Belle Coeur nationwide, Jamie Jo is also actively involved in her career as a hit songwriter. A member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Jamie Jo is currently working with nine-time Grammy Award-winning producer Rudy Perez to produce a selection of songs to be presented to his A-list clients including Leona Lewis and Beyonce, among others. Having earned acclaim for her contributions to the music world, such as a chart-topping duet with Barry Gibb of Bee Gees fame, Jamie Jo is recognized for her social affiliations, having walked the runway at charitable fashion shows and been appointed hostess of events and store openings for some of the world’s most recognized designers. As founder and first president of the Young Society for Love & Hope, Diabetes Research Institute, Jamie Jo is an active and respected philanthropist.

Photographs by Seth Dixon/WorldRedEye.com

Mercy Hospital Celebrates 60s in Style

Mercy Hospital turns 60 this December, and to celebrate the milestone, hundreds joined together for the annual Mercy Foundation Gala, paying tribute to both the hospital and the Foundation’s numerous achievements.

Fittingly titled “Diamond,” the October 30th fundraiser at the InterContinental Hotel Miami also honored the past presidents of the Mercy medical staff. Recognized for their service, which has spanned, collectively, more than half a century, the former leaders received the prestigious Monsignor Bryan O. Walsh Humanitarian Award, and were singled out for their exemplary dedication to the hospital’s growth and development — both in South Florida and beyond its borders.

The “Diamond” Gala featured entertainment by GRAMMY award-winning singer Willy Chirino, as well as fashions, created specifically for the Gala’s silent auction, by Miami-based couture designers. Mayda Cisneros, Rene Ruiz, Victoria Lopez Castro, Gabriela Arango and Rosina Malta (fur designer) unveiled signature gowns and a fur, designed in purple and/or red (the colors of the Gala), proceeds of which benefited the Mercy Foundation. The silent auction additionally offered a myriad of generously donated items including works of art, sports memorabilia and jewelry.

“We are grateful to the countless supporters and enthusiastic volunteers who have helped make this special edition of our time-honored fundraiser a true success,” said Josie Romano Brown, Mercy Foundation President. “Each year, the Gala spotlights service to cause and community. It’s an honor to celebrate the depth and longevity of that dedication by Mercy Hospital and the ongoing commitment by its Medical Staff to delivering compassionate, quality care.”

Additionally receiving special recognition were the “Diamond” event organizers: Gala Chairpersons, Mr. & Mrs. Jacobo Gadala-María, Jr. and Dr. & Mrs. Rolando De León; Journal Chairs Dr. & Mrs. Rafael J. Mas; Auction Chairs Dr. & Mrs. Michael Gordon; and Gala committee members.

About the Mercy Foundation:

The Mercy Foundation exists to advance and support the mission and healthcare ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of St. Augustine. During the last 60 years this has been accomplished through fundraising for Mercy Hospital and its outreach programs, such as the St. John Bosco Clinic. In the last five years, the Foundation has been instrumental in the success of many valuable projects and community outreach programs, including the St. John Bosco Clinic, the School of Licensed Practical Nursing, the Ortega Bonet Miami Cancer Center, the Kohly Center for Rehabilitation and the Colt Neuro-Intensive Care Unit. The Foundation was successful in raising $15 million during the VISION campaign for the expansion and renovation of the Emergency Department.

Photographs of the event

South Florida International Auto Show attracts many auto lovers worldwide By Betty Alvarez

The 40th anniversary South Florida International Auto Show ended its 10-day run on Sunday with attendance up over last year, a positive sign that local dealers believe may reflect a rise in consumer interest in new cars. This is true as I witnessed many car lovers at the auto show this year.

“We’ve had a couple of bad years in this economy,” said Rick Baker, president of the South Florida Automobile Dealers Association. “But this year, attendance was up about seven percent over 2009. Both weekends were fairly strong and visitor interest seemed high. We hope that will translate into better car sales going forward.” The event typically is the first major U.S. auto show of the season, filling the Miami Beach Convention Center with hundreds of new models.

New this year was Green Way, a special exhibit that gathered hybrid, electric and other models that sip fuel, or use none at all. It included a production version of the Volt, Chevrolet’s new extended range electric sedan, Nissan’s new all-electric LEAF and Honda’s new CR-Z Hybrid. Volvo used the show for the North American introduction of its 2012 S60 R-Design. Other new models included Nissan’s Juke and Suzuki’s Kizashi sports sedan. The South Florida show, one of America’s oldest and largest, also featured the latest crossovers, SUV’s and pickups.

During opening day press events on November 5, Ford showed off its all-electric Focus prototype and Lincoln’s MKZ Hybrid, then reviewed new technology in charging stations. Jeep’s all new Grand Cherokee has an upgraded interior, a new suspension designed with Mercedes-Benz and it boasts a 5-star crash rating. Reporters learned that sales are up 61 percent at Maserati, and 20 percent at Ferrari, from executives of the Italian marques who shared details of Maserati’s new 4-seat gran turismo convertible and Ferrari’s new 458 Italia. Nissan demonstrated the charging port, solar panel and other features of its 100 percent electric LEAF (Leading Environmentally Affordable Family) model. Toyota shared details of its new plug-in hybrid Prius in a special one-day-only event for media. Press day included events by Saab, Acura and Hyundai, which has new hybrid and turbo-charged versions of its popular Sonata sedan.

“There were new vehicles here that pave the way to the future,” said Baker, “and visitors got to see them up close, all under one roof.” Another new exhibit at the 40th Anniversary South Florida show was Miami Street Rides, a collection of chopped, tuned and painted custom cars in the spirit of 1960’s California designers. Numerous manufacturers participated in Ride & amp; Drive events that put attendees behind the wheel for a spin around the streets of Miami Beach. There were also classic autos that appears in the popular 80s show “Ghostbusters” and “Back to the Future”

Johan de Nysschen, president of Audi of America, was in Miami to speak to journalists gathered for the annual award luncheon presented by the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA). The group chose the Chevrolet Volt as its “Star of the Show,” Nissan’s LEAF as its “Best Green Technology Vehicle” and Jeep’s “Lower Forty” as its Best Concept Vehicle.

The South Florida International Show is produced by the South Florida Automobile Dealers Association, a four-county group of 190 new car dealers from The Keys to the Palm Beaches.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez

Grand Opening of the Miami Center for Plastic Surgery in the Design District

Guests recently celebrated an evening of beauty, art and achievement at the Miami Center for Plastic Surgery (MCPS) as Gabriel Salloum, M.D., served as host to a grand opening launch party to showcase his newest plastic surgery office and aesthetic center in Miami’s Design District.

Designed by Agustin Fernandez, MCPS features six patient care rooms, a spa-style aesthetics gallery, valet services and exclusive rotating art exhibits throughout its 3300 square feet. More than 250 guests and members of the media were treated to an exclusive tour of both the Plastic Surgery office and the Aesthetic Gallery, located at 2 NE 40th Street, Miami, FL 33137, while enjoying an exhibition by artist Derek Gores. More information is available at www.miamicenterforplasticsurgery.com.

Photographs of the event

Knight News Challenge Deadline is December 1, 2010

Deadline is Dec 1 for Knight News Challenge media innovation contest
====================================================================

If you have an innovative media technology idea, you might be able to get funding from the Knight News Challenge contest.

Run by the Knight Foundation, the grant competition awards up to $5 million annually for innovative projects that use digital technology to transform the way communities send, receive and make use of news and information.

More info can be found here: http://newschallenge.org. The site includes application information, as well as details about past winners.

This year’s application deadline is December 1. The News Challenge is looking for applications in four categories: mobile, authenticity, sustainability and community. All projects must make use of digital technology to distribute news in the public interest.

The contest is open to anyone in the world.

A simple description of the project is all you need to apply. Submit a brief pitch to http://newschallenge.org. If the reviewers like it, you’ll be asked to submit a full proposal later.

If you have questions you can a) reference the FAQ: http://www.newschallenge.org/frequently-asked-questions, or; b) check the archived chat transcript here: http://www.newschallenge.org/1026-live (another live chat will be held before the end of the contest period, time/date TBD)

You can follow Knight Foundation at http://twitter.com/knightfdn. The News Challenge Twitter hashtag is #knc

Please forward this to your friends.

Thank you!!
This message was sent by: John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, 200 South Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 3300, Miami, FL 33131

Posted in News   

Introducing stylish new jewelry brand LilahGabriel

LilahGabriel Announces Cuervo International Consulting as Agency of Record

Stylish new jewelry brand, LilahGabriel, announces agency of record and debuts to captivating women everywhere.

The LilahGabriel brand is proud to announce Cuervo International Consulting, as Agency of Record to handle all publicity for the debut of their newest jewelry collection. The firm will also handle all national media relations, editorial sample and celebrity lending fulfillment for the line.

The collection is a palette of exotic and beautiful jewelry ranging from chunky knits of silks and metals to thinner knits, draped in chain. Freshwater pearls, agate, jasper, onyx and Swarovski crystal dress up necklaces giving each piece an exclusive sense of individuality. From classic to complex, LilahGabriel covers every look for every woman!!

After selling custom pieces for private clientele, the LilahGabriel team has decided to launch the line more publicly. The collection is currently available at Coquette Boutique and Peel Gallery in Houston, TX; and orders can be placed through the website anytime at www.lilahgabriel.com.

LilahGabriel is poised and ready to infiltrate the fashion and accessory industry. Cuervo International Consulting looks forward to meeting editors needs and see great success in all endeavors in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

The LilahGabriel brand is what happens when fashion and jewelry marry. Jason and Jessica, husband and wife respectively, work collectively to create these phenomenal pieces. Jessica is an accomplished fashion designer who graduated from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY in 2004. Jason is an incredible and detailed jewelry designer with over 10 years of experience. He has designed custom fine jewelry pieces for a multitude of high-end clients. Jason and Jessica are looking forward to accessorizing and continue to captivate women all around the world.

Cuervo International Consulting is a new type of communications firm connecting brands within the world of fashion. The firm implements comprehensive and integrated public relations campaigns while creating brand awareness. Their strategy consists of generating media placement, increasing celebrity exposure, events, product placement and incorporating social media specifically tailored to promote each of their clients.

Posted in News   

General Hauling Service, Bakehouse Art Complex and 6th Street Container proudly announce, Dumpster Art.

General Hauling Service, Bakehouse Art Complex and 6th Street Container proudly announce, Dumpster Art.

Dumpster Art, is the brainchild of General Hauling Service Inc; coordinated by artist AdalDelgado from the 6th Street Container, in collaboration with the Bakehouse Art Complex. Dumpster Art is a project in which commercial trash dumpsters will be transformed into art, by five local artists. The artists will be selected from a “call to artists” with a deadline of October 28th, 2010.

Each prospective artist will submit their Dumpster Art Proposal to a panel of
distinguished local art experts, who will then select the artists that will be given the
opportunity to bring their visions to life by recreating their proposals on the actual
dumpsters. The commercial dumpsters and a cash prize for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place have all been donated by General Hauling Service, Inc.

The Dumpster Art competition will take place at the BAC facility and, once complete, willbe placed strategically around the Miami Beach Convention Center, the Wynwood Arts District and the Design District, during the week of Art Basel. After Art Basel, the containers will be exhibited at 6th Street Container’s courtyard and at the Bakehouse Art Complex in Wynwood.
Photographs of all phases of the Dumpster Art project will be provided by Susie Bush Photography and exhibited at the 6th Street Container in LIHa (Little Havana). The Dumpster Art Project is meant as a way for our local art community to bring beauty and creativity to a seemingly mundane item like a trash dumpster.

The competition judges are scheduled to be: Christopher Miro, Director, Christopher Miro Gallery, Arlys W. Raymond, Executive Director BAC and Maria Amores, co-director and
curator at the 6th Street Container.

General Hauling Service is a locally owned solid waste and recycling firm that has beenserving South Florida for over 50 years (www.generalhauling.com). The 6th Street Art Container is located at 1155 (rear) SW 6th Street.

The Bakehouse Art Complex, located at 561 NW 32nd Street, Miami, Florida (www.bacfl.org), is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing emerging and mid-career artists with affordable workspace, and educational and exhibition opportunities.
For more information, please contact Adal Delgado at 786.587.5279 or via e-mail at
6thstreetcontainer@gmail.com or info@generalhauling.com

Posted in News   

Spa at Shore Club Announces New Corporate Athlete Treatment

A new brand of athlete has emerged as identified by lead therapist at the Spa at Shore Club in South Beach, Christian LaSalle. Like professional sports athletes, the corporate athlete is called on by their employer to produce results in environments with uncomfortable chairs, high amounts of stress and increased tension caused by irregular sleeping patterns. The Corporate Athlete Treatment, a 60-minute massage featured only at the luxurious Spa at Shore Club is the answer to these problems and focuses on the head, neck and shoulders to mitigate discomfort from the following sources:

– Blackberry and PDA usage
– Laptop computer use or improper height of desktop computer screen
– Carrying heavy purse/bag on shoulder
– Crimping the telephone between ear and shoulder
– Unhelpful sleep posture

The specialty service costs $125 for 60 minutes or can be purchased in a series of 5 sessions for $500 and includes customized massage therapy and stretching for maximum benefits. The Spa at Shore Club is located at 1901 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL. Reservations can be made at 305.695.3293.

The Miami Music Festival is seeking Volunteer Stage Managers

The Miami Music Festival is seeking Volunteer Stage Managers

The Miami Music Festival is Miami’s premier new live music conference and emerging artist showcase. Over 350 performances by bands and solo artists will take place over a 3 day period on stages throughout Miami. These showcases are put together for the representatives of the music industry who attend the conference and for the people of Miami. You will need to be available to volunteer the entire festival November 12-14.

The Stage Manager of a MMF Music Festival venue is the liaison between MMF, the venue, production personnel, the performer, and the performer’s representatives.

Pre-festival responsibilities include:
· Making advance contacts and preparations with bands and the venue for showcases at a MMF venue.
· Maintaining regular contact with the MMF Production Staff and Zone Manager.
Overseeing the orientation of volunteer stage and venue crew.

Requirements:
· A telephone
· E-mail (ability to check every day).
· Ability to commit pre-conference time to advance shows.
· Ability to commit to required meetings.
· Organization of and participation in a walk-thru of your venue with Stage Crew and Zone Manager.
· Attendance at your assigned venue for all nights of the showcases (call times will vary by venue and are subject to change).

Skills desired:
· Communication
· Leadership
· Punctuality
· Diplomacy

Compensation: Stage Managers earn a Conference Badge, allowing all access to the conference and music venues including Bay Front Park day shows. In addition you will receive an MMF T-shirt and letter of recommendation and an invitation to the volunteer wrap party.

Stage Crew Volunteer
The Miami Music Festival is seeking Volunteer Stage Crew

The Miami Music Festival is Miami’s premier new live music conference and emerging artist showcase. Over 350 performances by bands and solo artists will take place over a 3 day period on stages throughout Miami. These showcases are put together for the representatives of the music industry who attend the conference and for the people of Miami. You will need to be available to volunteer the entire festival November 12-14.

The Stage Crew of a MMF Music Festival venue assists the stage manager and artists in ensuring that all showcases run smoothly and on time.

Pre-festival responsibilities include:
· Attending all required volunteer meetings.
· Maintaining regular contact with your MMF Volunteer Coordinator and Stage Manager.

Requirements:
· A telephone
· E-mail (ability to check every day).
· Ability to commit to required meetings.
· Participation in a walk-thru of your venue with Stage Crew and Zone Manager.
· Attendance at your assigned venue for all nights of the showcases (call times will vary by venue and are subject to change).

Skills desired:
· Communication
· Leadership
· Punctuality
· Diplomacy

Compensation: Stage Crew will earn a Conference wristband, allowing all access to music venues including Bay Front Park day shows. In addition you will receive an MMF T-shirt and letter of recommendation and an invitation to the volunteer wrap party.

Check out the facebook link for more info.

Posted in News   

Cecconi’s Set to Open in Miami’s Soho Beach House

Cecconi’s Set to Open in Miami’s Soho Beach House

Soho House Group announces the opening of the third location of its popular restaurant, Cecconi’s, on October 11th, which will debut as part of the new Soho Beach House in Miami. Overseeing the kitchen and executing the classic Venetian-influenced menu is acclaimed Executive Chef Sergio Sigala.

Inspired by the original London location—which was founded in 1978 and modeled after the first Cipriani in Venice, Italy,—the 150-seat Cecconi’s Miami is located on the ground floor of Soho Beach House, the recently renovated Art Deco Sovereign Hotel. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in an intimate setting, Cecconi’s offers superior service and is sure to entice the discerning tastes of its fellow Miami denizens and savvy visitors alike. The restaurant exudes the perfect blend of elegantly traditional cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.

Sigala brings to Cecconi’s Miami a pedigree earned in some of the most esteemed kitchens in the world including Michelin-starred restaurants Al Bersagliere in Goito, Italy, and Ristorante Villa Fiordaliso in Lake Garda, Italy. Additionally, he was Chef of Italian Cuisine at the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel where he catered private parties and royal weddings at 16 different palaces for dignitaries such as the Sultan of Bahrain, Prince Charles and Nelson Mandela. For the past 10 years, this Northern Italian native was Executive Chef at Miami’s celebrated eatery, Casa Tua.

An ardent practitioner of sourcing quality, seasonal ingredients and using simple preparations, Sigala will add his own unique spin to the Cecconi’s Miami menu. He features all the same beloved dishes from the restaurant’s sister locations worldwide coupled with a robust steak and seafood program.

Menu highlights include Wood-Oven Roast Scallops with Pancetta and Rosemary; Kobe Beef Tartare with Truffle and Pecorino; Burrata, Red Onion and Fresh Tomato Pizza; Maine Lobster with House-made Spaghetti; Veal Ossobuco with Gremolata; and a first-rate selection of prime steaks served with truffle jus and garlic confit.

Whether they’re having a meal in the main dining room or simply grabbing drinks at the restaurant’s 14-seat bar, Cecconi’s guests can enjoy a diverse beverage program which features a 230-bottle wine list with a bevy of Italian, Spanish and South American selections; a choice variety of international and domestic beers; and handcrafted cocktails that consist of traditional Italian favorites alongside caipirinhas, mojitos and other libations which pay homage to Miami’s mix of Caribbean and Latin influences.

Cecconi’s Miami features outdoor garden-like seating that is sheltered by a retractable awning, allowing guests to enjoy their meal enveloped in the pleasure of Miami’s inviting weather. Additionally, the restaurant design includes antique Nile green stripped tile floors, allusive of the incredible hue of the nearby sea, and a garden of Silver Buttonwood trees.

Cecconi’s Miami is located at Soho Beach House, 4385 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, Fla., and is open Monday to Wednesday 8 a.m. to midnight, Thursday to Saturday 8 a.m. to 1 a.m., Sunday 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, please visit www.cecconisrestaurant.com.

URGENT: Save the Gusman Center

{A note from Soul Of Miami: this was forwarded to us by the Miami International Film Festival. We think it is important enough to post here for everyone to see. If you can help, please contact the Friends of the Gusman at the address below.}


An Urgent Appeal from The Friends of Gusman Center
Please forward to your friends

As you are aware, the Gusman Center has been informed that due to the City of Miami’s budget shortfall, the Theater may not receive funding from the City for the coming fiscal year. Without this financial support, after 84 years in our community, the Gusman’s doors could be forced to close permanently before the year is out.

As a City-owned facility, the Gusman relies on the City for approximately one-third of its operating budget. The remaining funds are generated by venue rentals; arts and historic preservation grants from the city, county and state; and generous donations from supporters like you. The Friends of Gusman remains committed to developing additional sources of funding and to implementing a sustainable operating structure for the Theater over the longer term.

Today, we urgently ask you to join us in calling on our Mayor and City Commission to recognize their commitment to maintain this unique cultural and historic landmark. Failure to provide for basic maintenance of the Theater, even in the short term, would likely result in irreparable damage to the building and undermine the successful restoration efforts that have been accomplished over the past decade.

Please help us advocate for the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts by taking the following urgent actions:

ATTEND THE CITY OF MIAMI BUDGET HEARINGS
SEPT. 14, 4:00 pm & SEPT. 27, 4:00 pm
City of Miami Commission Chambers
3500 Pan American Drive, Coconut Grove

Join the Friends of Gusman demonstrating your support IN PERSON at this critical juncture, at these two budget hearings for the 2010-2011 fiscal year.

T-shirts will be handed out to all those who come out in support. Please look for us at the entrance to City Hall. Call for more information: Daniella Sforza, 305-308-0802, or Robert Hernandez, 786-325-8093.

CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS — SIGN THE PETITION, EMAIL THE COMMISSION TODAY
Visit www.friendsofgusmancenter.org and click on ADVOCACY. Sign electronically the citizen’s petition addressed to The Honorable Tomas Regalado and City of Miami Commissioners “To Continue the City of Miami’s Fiscal Support of the Historic Olympia Theater at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts.”
Visit www.friendsofgusmancenter.org and click on ADVOCACY. Complete the easy-to-use electronic form to email or print out a letter to Mayor Regalado and City of Miami Commissioners requesting that they pledge their support in keeping the operational funding for the Theater in the City’s budget.
VOLUNTEER NOW
Visit www.friendsofgusmancenter.org and click on VOLUNTEER. Give us your contact information through the electronic form and we will stay in touch with ways you can help.
DONATE NOW
Visit www.friendsofgusmancenter.org and click on DONATE to give online.
TEXT to donate between $10 and $500. To donate $10, text the phrase “Pay Gusman 10” to 646-863-9557. Change the “10” to any other amount to donate up to $500. You will receive an automated phone call asking you to key in your credit card information.
Send a check payable to “Friends of Gusman” to Gusman Center for the Performing Arts, 169 E. Flagler Street, Suite 837, Miami, FL 33131.
TELL YOUR FRIENDS TODAY — WE NEED THE COMMUNITY’S SUPPORT TO KEEP THE GUSMAN OPEN! EMAIL THIS INFORMATION TO YOUR MAILING LISTS!

We need your support and we need it now. If survival of this vital cornerstone of downtown Miami and historic gem of the City of Miami is important to you, JOIN US AND TAKE ACTION TODAY.

With appreciation for your help,

THE FRIENDS OF GUSMAN
The Friends of Gusman Center is an independent, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization affiliated with the Olympia Theater at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts. With the oversight of a dedicated volunteer board of directors, Friends functions as a support organization to the staff of the Theater. It works to advance and promote the Theater through activities including preservation, restoration, operation, fundraising and marketing. Friends aims to preserve and promote this dynamic, historic community Theater to the benefit of its resident companies, artists, patrons and surrounding community.

For more information, please visit the Friends of Gusman website.

Soho Beach House Opens in October 2010

The Soho House Group Introduces Miami’s Newest Private Members Club And Hotel Soho Beach House Opening October 2010
Soho Beach House
4385 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach, FL
Ph: 786 507 7900

Soho House welcomes its newest club and hotel to Miami this Fall with the opening of Soho Beach House, the brand’s third North American property. Located in Mid-Beach, just north of South Beach, the oceanfront property will be both a club for private members and boutique hotel open to the public. Soho Beach House will also include a Cowshed Spa and a Cecconi’s restaurant, both open to the public.

Soho Beach House is located on the site of the historic art-deco Sovereign Hotel, which has been redesigned and expanded to include a 16-story oceanfront tower. The 50 hotel guest rooms, ranging from 350-1500 square feet, offer ocean and bay views and feature antique furniture, king-sized beds, Samsung 40” flat screen TV’s, iPod docks, drinks cabinets and rainforest showers with signature Cowshed products. A select group of rooms boast free standing bathtubs and private terraces overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Other members and hotel guest areas include a Screening Snug, Drawing Room, indoor-outdoor bars and dining areas with lush gardens, two pools and a beach club area with full waiter service. www.sohobeachhouse.com

“The first time I stepped foot in Miami I was blown away by the sexy vibe, the beautiful art deco buildings and incredible beaches – I knew instantly I wanted to bring a Soho House there” said Soho House founder Nick Jones. “We have created properties in New York and LA, and introducing flip flop glamour to Miami seemed like the natural next step for us. The Beach House is just north of the South Beach strip. It is a place where I hope our members and guests will meet, sleep and definitely play…I am incredibly excited about throwing our doors open this fall – it’s going to be fun.”

Soho Beach House was envisioned by Nick Jones together with designer Martin Brudnizki, whose resume boasts Cecconi’s West Hollywood, London’s Scott’s, The Club at the Ivy and J Sheekey Oyster Bar. Using inspiration from Miami Beach history, the property will have a South American style while offering a taste of the brand’s characteristic, unpretentious European glamour.

Rooms
Bedrooms at Soho Beach House are available in six different sizes. With South American influences, all bedrooms are decorated with one-off pieces of antique furniture and feature king-size beds and rainforest showers stocked with Cowshed products. Most of the bedrooms overlook the ocean or waterways while a number have freestanding baths and private terraces. The entire property offers complimentary Wi-Fi and select floors have a computer nook with Macs for guests.

Ground Floor
Drawing Room – Upon entrance members will find a traditional wood-paneled Art Deco space that includes part of Soho House’s art collection, as well as a Cuban coffee bar, a collection of rare cigars and a grand piano.

Cecconi’s – Situated in the Ground Floor Courtyard, Cecconi’s is a modern day classic Italian restaurant open to the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Originating in Venice and with outposts in London and West Hollywood, Cecconi’s has become a critically acclaimed dining destination featuring simply prepared Venetian inspired food. The restaurant design includes antique nile green stripped tile floors, a garden of Silver Buttonwood trees and a retractable awning for indoor/outdoor dining. Cecconi’s offers an elegant and relaxed dining experience for members and guests.

Pool – The 100-foot-long pool is bordered by communal lounge beds and gardens where members and guests can relax and socialize while enjoying full waiter service.

Tiki Bar – Steps away from the pool and surrounded by a tropical garden, the Tiki Bar offers a casual secluded area for relaxing and dining on salads and grilled meats and seafood.

Beach Club – Members and their guests can enjoy the beach, lounge beds and beach huts that sit between the boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean, with cold drinks and waiter service available. There is also a special safe area for children and provision for water sports.

Second Floor
Club Bar – Decorated in homage to 1940’s Cuba the bar features old wood paneling, antique tiles, vintage furnishings and ceiling fans. Members and hotel guests drink and dine at comfortable sofas and tables under a retractable awning with views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Screening Snug – Complete with a selection of comfortable chairs and sofas, the Snug features full digital screening capabilities for gatherings, parties and member events. Drinks and food selections can be tailored to any occasion.

Cowshed (Spa and Active) – The Cowshed Spa is accessible to members, hotel guests, and the public by appointment. The spa features six spacious ocean facing mani-pedi chairs, five private treatment rooms including a couple’s suite, steam rooms, a relaxation area, changing facilities and Cowshed’s first Blow Dry Bar. The spa offers a full range of treatments as well as a Cowshed shop. Groups can book Pretty Parties for special occasions complete with private treatments, dinner and wine for a night of sociable grooming. Cowshed Active, the ocean front gym, features floor-to-ceiling windows, a full range of equipment as well as personal trainers, Yoga and Pilates classes.

Eighth Floor
Club Library – A private, comfortable space that is great for relaxing, reading or working with lounge seating, wood paneling, bookcases, ocean views, a Mac computer and waiters on hand to serve drinks and food throughout the day. With an adjoining Private Dining Room for 16 people, the Club Lounge is ideal for private hire and member events.

Pool and Bar – The club pool, which overlooks the ocean and is surrounded by double sun loungers and fans to keep members cool and comfortable, is for use for adult members and hotel guests. The floor also has its own towel station and showers with an adjacent bar. The club pool and bar is available for private hire and offers sunrise and sunset views.

MEMBERSHIP
The Soho Beach House membership committee will be taking applications for membership over the summer months, prior to opening. Local membership of the Beach House is $1800 annually, with membership for all Soho House clubs set at $2400. Members under the age of 27 receive special rates at $900 for Local and $1200 for Every House. Soho Beach House members will enjoy a specially curated monthly events program taking in live music, art events, wine tastings, literary salons, parties and much more. To inquire about membership please contact membership@sohobeachhouse.com .

SOHO HOUSE GROUP
The opening of Soho Beach House Miami marks Soho House Group’s third property in the United States with additional properties in New York City and West Hollywood. Internationally, Soho House features several locations in London and one in Berlin. Cecconi’s restaurant, Cowshed Spa and hotel accommodations can be reserved by contacting reservations@sohobeachhouse.com and to pre-register interest in the Soho Beach House event spaces contact events@sohobeachhouse.com.

HGTV Casting for First Time Home Sellers around Miami and Ft. Lauderdale

SELLING YOUR FIRST PLACE?
Then HGTV is looking for you!

MY FIRST SALE, the popular primetime HGTV show, is looking for first-time home sellers (and their real estate agents!) in and around Miami and Ft. LaUDERDALE, FL.

We are looking for fun, high-energy people who are just starting the process of selling their first place! Our cameras will be there to capture all the trials and tribulations, stress and success of prepping for sale, pricing, negotiating, and ultimately selling a home for the first time.

Taping will begin in Fall 2010 and will continue through Spring 2011. Ideal candidates will be motivated, financially candid people who want to share the experience and the SALE details with HGTV and their audience. Singles, couples and families are all invited to apply!

If this sounds like fun, first-time sellers should apply now for immediate consideration!

For more information or an application contact:
Amy Sabreen
asabreen@highnoontv.com
303-712-3178

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Segafredo in South Miami celebrates its Grand Opening By Betty Alvarez

South Miami got a huge boost as the long awaited grand opening of Segafredo came about on Sept 2, 2010 . Located in the heart of the South Miami this Segafredo location plans to compliment the already vibrant atmosphere the area has built up over the last couple of years. What better way to celebrate the opening of this global brand than to tap into its Italian roots in spectacular fashion? Owners Willy and Minerva Quintana are opening Segafredo South Miami in grand style.

Willy and Minerva Quintana are not only husband and wife but form an electric duo who realized the potential for the popular Segafredo brand in south Miami. Willy who is a self proclaimed “gear head” jumped at the chance to merge the Italian coffee house and eatery with the sexy, heart pumping legacy that its home country has in auto racing to make for a fabulous grand opening. Italy has a deep and rich motor sports history. One thinks of Ferrari, Alfa Romero, Fiat, Maserati, and Lamborghini. The Segafredo grand opening plans to tap into that legacy. Guests were surrounded by Italian sports cars, models in racing inspired outfits, and professional race car drivers brought in by the Homestead Speedway. Event goers had the opportunity to sample bites from the Segafredo kitchen and sip on delicious cocktails. The grand opening will push the boundaries of South Miami which has turned into a “go-to” area for the South Florida professional. Willy and Minerva felt that Segafredo would be the exclamation point in an increasingly trendy area.

The grand opening for Segafredo South Miami took place with a ribbon cutting featuring South Miami Mayor Phillip Stoddard, President of Red Sunset Merchants Association Amy Donner, Chamber South President Mary Scott Russell, Executive Vice President of First National Bank of South Miami Veronica Flores and other important figures from the area. The event also featured live music by popular band Suénalo.

The event was co- presented by: Toraño Cigars, SWS, Peroni, Red Bull, Homestead Speedway, Charity Partner Neat Stuff, GT Concepts, Red Sunset Merchants Association, Chamber South, FIU Alumni Association, Rossion Automotive, LA Sweets, Media Partners: Miami.com,Venue Magazine, Miami Empresarial Magazine, 880TheBiz, Generation ñ, Mujer Magazine, South Miami News and Pinecrest Tribune, and SoMi Mag.

Guests spent the evening filled with passed bites, cocktails, and music as Segafredo plans to take South Miami by storm. VIPs and celebrities included Carlos A. Navarro (whose colorful artwork graces the Segafredo walls), Adriana Cataño, Karent Sierra, Maisi Baserva, Gina Romero, Maria Laria, Yossie Galindo, WFOR personality Marybel Rodriguez, Tito Puente Jr. and various others.

Segafredo South Miami is located at 5800 SW 73 ST, South Miami, FL., 33143. For more information, please call 305) 728-4868 or visit www.segafredosouthmiami.com

Photographs by Betty Alvarez

Coltorti Miami opens at 1111 Lincoln Road

Famed Italian-based luxury women’s boutique Coltorti, names The brpr Group as agency of record. The alliance emanates from Coltorti’s recent move to extend the breadth of their fashion syndicate into the United States- opening at the newly completed 1111 Lincoln Road, which is the latest offering from visionary developer Robert Wennett and celebrated architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron.

The brpr Group will spearhead art direction and media placement for the Coltorti advertising effort in the U.S, in addition to integrating social media, with traditional public relations strategies, as a part of the over all campaign. “The Coltorti team was very selective when we sought representation from a Brand Management/Public Relations Firm, and we feel strongly that The brpr Group’s young and modern approach will effectively deliver our message to the U.S market,” explained President of Coltorti USA, Maurizio Coltorti.

Coltorti has long served as an international hub for Europe’s fashion forward in search of the ultimate in avant-garde brands from Derek Lamb, Balmain, Fendi, Missoni, Moncler, Prada, Valentino, and Dolce & Gabbana – just to name a few – and Miami has become one of the favored destinations for this jet set clientele. “Miami has a wonderful mix of South American and Mediterranean influences when it comes to lifestyle and fashion choices and we wanted to bring the “Coltorti way” re-interpreted, into Miami-chic. The Miami woman is certainly carving out her own place in fashion, with a very particular style, much in the same way you would look at a New Yorker or Parisian, and of course an Italian. I am confident that Coltorti will become a great resource for them to expand and express themselves fully. Our long history in Italy affords us great relationships with the top designers worldwide. We have exclusive arrangements for pieces from such coveted design houses as Moncler which you will only find in Florida at Coltorti Miami” explains Coltorti Managing Director Marzio Torcianti.

With six store locations in Italy, each boasting its own selection of exclusive luxury designer labels; Coltorti has branded itself as the epitome of true Italian shopping: playing the role of curator to nearly a century of fashion trends, garnering an impeccable reputation as one of Europe’s eminent purveyors of fashion. Now, Coltorti looks to build a similar following in the U.S market with the launch of Coltorti Miami. The success of Coltorti’s Miami offering is in the unique formula Coltorti employs of marrying merchandising to a stunning aesthetic of the brands the store represents.

“Coltorti will bring a Bal Harbour sensibility to South Beach, greatly expanding the choices of the Miami consumer. The most accurate characterization of Coltorti is to call them a high-fashion insurgent. I have not seen fashion of this caliber, presented in this way on South Beach and I think Coltorti will build a cult like following relatively quickly. There is a great synergy between our two camps and with brpr’s strong reputation in the worlds of fashion, and social media in the public relations industry, I think it is a great fit. We could not be more proud to call Coltorti a brpr ‘spouse’,” explains Gerard Bush, Creative Director for The brpr Group.

Patrons of Coltorti Miami can expect the unmatched service of personal shoppers and stylists to service their every need. The variety of shoes, bags and accessories offered are assembled from a discerning buying process to match the discriminate taste of the new Coltorti Miami clientele. Look for Coltorti to become the Mecca for Miami’s fashion obsessed. For more information on Coltorti or for a private tour please contact Danielle Ellis- Danielle@brprgroup.com

News – Zade Foundation Launches Young Composers For Peace Award

Zade Foundation Launches Young Composers For Peace Award

Zade, the Jordanian composer and performer who has dedicated himself to promoting peace through the Zade Foundation for international Peace and Understanding and who The Washington Times has deemed “Jordan’s leading cultural ambassador,” has announced the Young Composers for Peace Award, an annual program to empower outstanding young composition students who are committed to the principles of peace and social justice within their own communities and around the world.

Zade, whose ‘One Night In Jordan: A Concert for Peace’ CD and DVD is out now, explains in a blog post on the Larry King Live website this week that he has benefited from the support of mentors such as Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan, who calls him an “indomitable character who has inspired so many,” and hopes through the Young Composers for Peace Award to inspire students he has met all over the world.

“Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders,” Zade writes, “and I have been inspired time and time again by their stories of hope and determination. We all share the same dream: To live in peace, and provide a safe environment built on justice and mutual respect where our children can grow together as members of one human family.”

The Young Composers for Peace Award seeks compositions of 3-8 minutes from composers aged 18-23 with deep pride in the musical heritage of their native country who are passionate about sharing a deeper understanding of their respective cultures by becoming peacemakers as well as musicmakers. The award includes a $5000 gift, a recording by Zade of the winning composition for an upcoming album, and the opportunity to work with Zade in the studio.

For eligibility and submissions guidelines, please visit the Zade Foundation website at: http://www.zadefoundation.org.

For more about Zade, please visit: http://www.zade.com.

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News – Developer Of UM Life Science and Technology Park Makes Donation To Overtown Youth Center

Developer Of UM Life Science and Technology Park Makes Donation To Overtown Youth Center
Monday, June 14th, 2010 at Overtown Youth Center

On Monday, June 14th, Wexford Science & Technology, LLC, a privately held real estate investment and development company, and the Urban Research Park CDE, LLC presented the Overtown Youth Center with a $100,000 donation.

“This generous donation will be used to fund programs that help students achieve academic, fitness and social goals. These funds granted by UM’s Life Science & Technology Park Project will help us reach our goal to provide academic and family support as well as enriching experiences to 270 children and 160 families in the Overtown community. Our hope is that with the help of our partners, donors, grantors and other stakeholders, we can provide invaluable opportunities so that our children will one day become positive contributing citizens,” said Bill Diggs, Chairman of Alonzo Mourning Charities.

“We are truly honored and privileged to accept this very generous donation from Wexford Science & Technology, LLC and the Urban Research Park CDE, LLC,” said Vincent L. Dimmock, CEO of Alonzo Mourning Charities. “This contribution was made possible by UM’s Life Science & Technology Park Project. The initiative continues to give tremendous support to the Overtown Youth Center. These funds will go toward our mission to provide life-enriching opportunities for the hundreds of children and families we serve in the community.”

Wexford Science & Technology is the private developer building the first phase of the University of Miami (UM) Life Science & Technology Park, along Northwest 7th Avenue, in historic Overtown. The UM Life Science & Technology Park is an important part of UM Innovation – the entity within the university responsible for technology development. The Park will house companies that may work synergistically with UM faculty to advance discoveries from the research bench to the bedside to help people. It will provide facilities, infrastructure and interdisciplinary opportunities to foster the development of life sciences, technology and biotechnology innovations. Located on the eastern section of the UM/Jackson campus, adjacent to the Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, the Miami Health District and centrally situated in the heart of Miami’s historic Overtown, the UM Life Science & Technology Park will facilitate access to outstanding resources and create synergies between the University and future tenant companies, advancing clinical breakthroughs and benefiting all people.

The ceremony included Overtown Youth Center Advisory Board Members: Judge Peter Adrien; Phil Bacon; Heather Bailey; Chantel Christopher; Andre Crenshaw, Esq.; Lazaro Dominguez; Anthony Jackson; Stephen A. Marino, Esq.; Natasha D. Mayne, Vice Chairman Overtown Youth Center, Esq.; Jodi Silva, Chairman Overtown Youth Center; Michelle Surtain; Leo Toca; and Lisa Wooten. Vincent Dimmock, newly appointed CEO of Alonzo Mourning Charities; Bill Diggs, Chairman Alonzo Mourning Charities; and Misty Brown, Chief of Staff for Miami Dade County Commissioner Edmonson were also in attendance.

University of Miami attendees included Juan Carlos Del Valle, Director of Government Affairs and Keith Fletcher, Director of the William R. Butler Center for Service & Leadership.

“UM is proud of its long and close relationship with the Overtown Youth Center and is honored to support their vital mission to help the youth of Overtown. The Overtown Youth Center provides a positive place for children and teens, and they are helping to change lives. This grant by Wexford Science & Technology underscores the UM Life Science & Technology Park’s commitment to Overtown by supporting the good work this wonderful organization does in this community,” commented Juan Carlos Del Valle, University of Miami Director of Government Affairs.

Photograph attached (Names listed from left to right below)

Back Row: Leo Toca, Overtown Youth Center Advisory Board Member; Bill Diggs, Chairman Alonzo Mourning Charities; Phillip Bacon, Overtown Youth Center Advisory Board Member; Vincent L. Dimmock, CEO Alonzo Mourning Charities; Juan Carlos del Valle, University of Miami Director of Government Affairs; Keith Fletcher, Director of the University of Miami William R. Butler Center for Service & Leadership; Stephan Marino, Overtown Youth Center Advisory Board Member; and Andre Crenshaw, Overtown Youth Center Advisory Board Member.

Front Row: Misty Brown, Chief of Staff Commissioner Audrey Edmondson’s Office; Heather Bailey, Overtown Youth Center Advisory Board Member; Natasha d. Mayne, Vice Chair of Overtown Youth Center Advisory Board; Jodi Silva, Chair of Overtown Youth Center Advisory Board; Lisa Wooten, Overtown Youth Center Advisory Board Member; and Michelle Surtain, Overtown Youth Center Advisory Board Member.

About Overtown Youth Center: The Overtown Youth Center (OYC) provides services to children and families who reside in the Overtown community of Miami, Florida – the poorest communities in one of the nation’s poorest cities. The Overtown Youth Center was the vision of local real estate developer Martin Z. Margulies. Through the Margulies Foundation, he built the Overtown Youth Center with the support of Alonzo Mourning in hopes of creating a safe haven for the children in Overtown. Opening in early 2003, the Overtown Youth Center (OYC) is a state-of-the-art facility located in the heart of Miami’s inner city. The Center co-locates academic and recreational activities in a safe environment, working with children, families, and schools from grade 2 to graduation. The Overtown Youth Center’s goal is to be an integral part of the community by delivering enrichment services that foster hope and promote life-long learning and success for our inner-city youth and citizens. Our goal is to help build a child who is resilient.
Today, Overtown is a community rife with risk factors:

· Overtown has by far the lowest median household income of any of Miami’s communities, at $13,212.
· Out of approximately 10,000 residents, only about 3 percent are gainfully employed.
· Only 1 out of every 12 youth graduate from high school.
· Over half of residents and more than 65 percent of children live below the poverty level, compared to 26 percent for Miami-Dade County.
· 60 percent of all households are single-parent.
· A 2006 study of the adult male population in Overtown discovered that two-thirds have been in prison, one-forth have been homeless, 40 percent use illegal drugs regularly, and 60 percent drink alcohol several times per day. Also, 60 percent report feeling restless, overwhelmed, and/or worthless most of the time.
· Additionally the rates of teenage pregnancy, juvenile arrest, gang violence, child abuse and neglect, and substance abuse are more than three times those of Miami-Dade County, which are already higher than national averages.

OYC provides services to youth who currently attend public schools in our Overtown, as well as their families. Approximately 95 percent of participants qualify for Title I services. All attend schools that have received a D or an F from the Florida Department of Education in the last few years, with significantly lower than average test scores and higher than average rates of student absence. A large majority of our students enroll in our program at least two years behind; an alarming number cannot read nor do basic calculations. Many of our students come from families with compounded issues that impact their ability to perform well in school. Several are without consistently supportive adult figures in their lives.

For more information on the Overtown Youth Center visit us at www.overtownyouthcenter.org.

About Wexford Science & Technology, LLC: Wexford Science & Technology is a Maryland based, privately held real estate developer and investment company that specializes in the planning, development, construction and sophisticated financial structuring of complex research space for non-profit clients including universities, university affiliated research parks, and healthcare systems and corporations.

About Urban Research Park CDE, LLC: Urban Research Park CDE, LLC (URP) is a CDFI Fund certified Community Development Entity. Since 2007, URP has received $140 million in New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocations. URP sells the federal tax credits to investors, then loans 98% of the proceeds at very low interest rates and favorable terms to finance real estate projects in Low Income Communities. The remaining 2% of the allocation is used to make a grant to nonprofit entities that provide services to low income persons in the community in which the project is located.

For more information about Wexford and the UM Life Science & Technology Park visit www.umlsp.com.

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mySpa at InterContinental Miami launches morning and evening myYoga

MYSPA AT INTERCONTINENTAL MIAMI LAUNCHES WEEKLY YOGA CLASS
Maintain your beach bikini bod before heading back to work or school, throughout August with mySpa’s newly launched myYoga beginning Tuesday, August 10, 6 p.m.-7p.m and Thursday, August 12 from 7:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. for only $20 per class.
mySpa at InterContinental Miami
Tuesday: myYoga from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. followed by a healthy organic cocktail
Thursday: myYoga from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. followed by a light breakfast including coffee and juices
100 Chopin Plaza, Miami, FL 33131
Check-in at mySpa – Plaza Level
Classes at Flaglar Room

Twice-a-week myYoga offers more than just a great work-out! For only $20 per class you can also enjoy the advantages of mySpa’s amenities including the Eucalyptus Steam Room, Drench Showers, Dry Sauna and the myFitness Studio, an Italian Technogym fitness center. Upon entry get prepped in the fully functional locker rooms with complimentary headphones, razors, combs, hair accessories, etc. and “No Excuses” work-out amenities including Nike shirts, shorts, athletic bras and socks.

Classes are beginner level with options for advanced level participants to amp up their practice. mySpa at InterContinental Miami’s new Spa Director, Catherine Keeble, will instruct classes for beginners with the option for advanced level guests. Certified in Anusara Yoga, Keeble has studied the art of Yoga for over ten years in locations including Europe, Thailand, India and America. Her teaching style is closely aligned with the philosophy of Desikachar’s book, The Heart of Yoga, and the teachings of his father Tirumalai Krishnamacharya.

The Roxy Theatre Group Performing Arts Classes Registration is now open

The Roxy Theatre Group’s Performing Arts Classes
Registration is now open

The Roxy Theatre Group, (RTG) a non-profit arts organization for children, offers classes in Acting, Voice, Musical Theatre, Ballet, Tumbling, Jazz, Lyrical, Guitar, Trumpet, Hip Hop, Tap, Belly Dancing, Technique, and Point, for ages 3-17. The children have various performance opportunities during the school year, including showcases, outreach performances, competitions and a Broadway-style main-stage musical. Adult classes available.

September through June. Monday through Friday, from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Registration is now open.

The Roxy Performing Arts Center
1645 SW 107 Ave.
Miami, FL 33165

Scholarships, family and multiple class discounts are offered.
To register or for more information please call 305-226-0030, www.RoxyPAC.com.

The Roxy Theatre Group, (RTG) a non-profit organization, offers classes in drama, voice and dance to children ages 3-17, with year-round programs including an after school care program and a performing arts summer camp.

The Roxy Theatre Group’s Photo Gallery.

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Morgans Hotel Group Spas Announce Locals Appreciation Program at Delano, Shore Club and Mondrian in South Beach

Morgans Hotel Group’s Trifecta Of Celebrated Spas Announces Appreciation Program At Delano, Shore Club And Mondrian In South Beach

Morgans Hotel Group’s celebrated trio of South Beach serene retreats unveils the Relax and Repeat appreciation program. Local spa enthusiasts will indulge in a 30% discount on treatments including agua Spa at Delano’s famous Milk & Honey Body Treatment, The Spa at Shore Club’s Wild and Zesty Scalp and Body Massage and agua Spa at Mondrian’s legendary själ Blue Kashmir-Saphir Facial. Hotel pool access before and after treatments, $10 valet parking, complimentary surprise add-ons and retail specials are also included.

agua Spa at Delano
1685 Collins Avenue
305.674.6100

The Spa at Shore Club
1901 Collins Avenue
305.695.3292

agua Spa at Mondrian
1100 West Avenue
305.514.1950

Starting now
Valid Florida identification required.
For more information please call the above spa of your choice.

agua Spa at Delano: Since opening in 1996, agua Spa at Delano has gained accolades from spa aficionados and celebrities alike. The 5,300 sq ft relaxation center designed to resemble a Mediterranean bathhouse features ten treatment rooms, two manicure/pedicure stations and three outdoor private cabanas for spa services. Located on the hotel’s roof, the renowned spa is a serenely beautiful and peaceful space that offers state-of-the-art treatments aimed at rejuvenating the body, mind and spirit. Housed in a pristine white setting with an enormous private terrace and 360-degree views, agua is the ultimate sanctuary with celeb fans including Eva Longoria, Jamie Foxx and Kevin Spacey. agua Spa at Delano along with agua Spa at Mondrian in South Beach are the only two spas in the United States to carry products by själ. 1685 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL | 305.674.6100

The Spa at Shore Club: The Spa at Shore Club is a luxurious relaxation retreat located on the rooftop of the famous Miami Beach hotel. With 8,000-square-feet of rejuvenation facilities, The Spa features eight treatment rooms, an ocean view couples’ terrace and three additional terraces that provide secluded spaces to lounge, sun bathe and decompress before and after treatments. The teak, warm-toned materials and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean create a serene, Zen-like atmosphere designed to inspire balance and synergy. Offering a vast selection of massages, facials, body and nail treatments, The Spa is most famous for their Wild and Zesty Scalp and Body Massage. The Spa also offers exclusive products from Eminence and Pure Fiji including specialty services like the Organic Facial (Eminence) and the Coconut Milk and Honey Body Indulgence (Pure Fiji). 1901 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL | 305.695.3292

agua Spa at Mondrian in South Beach: Since opening in February 2009, agua Spa at Mondrian in South Beach has gained national acclaim for its signature services and stunning Marcel Wanders’ design. Winner of the Travel + Leisure 2010 Design Award for Best Spa, the 4,000-sq-ft relaxation retreat boasts six treatment room all equipped to offer an extensive variety of specialty services including agua’s signature body treatment, Milk & Honey, and their själ Blue Kashmir-Saphir Facial. Agua also features a dry sauna, full locker room facilities for men and women and a private outside terrace perfect for relaxing or ordering room service. Agua’s white walls and over-sized furniture accent the peacefully beautiful space which has attracted celebs including Macy Gray, Maureen McCormick, Wilmer Valderrama and Jessica Szohr. Agua Spa at Mondrian in South Beach along with agua Spa at Delano are the only two spas in the United States to carry products by själ. 1100 West Ave., Miami Beach, FL | 305.514.1950

Trina Turk Mocktail Reception at Bal Harbour Post Info and Images

On Saturday, July 17, Miami fashionistas Amanda Fernandez-Leon, Jacquelynn Powers, Jilian Sanz and Sarah Arison hosted an intimate shopping soiree at Trina Turk Bal Harbour coinciding with Mercedes-Benz Miami Fashion Week Swim 2011. In celebration of the designer’s appointment as the Mercedes-Benz Presents designer, the event offered guests the opportunity to browse the new Swim & Spa collection as well as mingle with Trina Turk, herself.

Photos courtesy of Tara Ink.

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Trina Turk Swim & Spa 2011 Mercedes-Benz Swim Week post show recap

TRINA TURK KICKED OFF MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK SWIM 2011
Los Angeles-Based Designer Brought “Acapulco Gold” to Miami Beach with her Swim & Spa 2011 Collection

MIAMI, FL (July 16, 2010) – The ultimate fiesta, hosted by Los Angeles-based designer Trina Turk invited guests to celebrate her first appearance at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim 2011 with a celebration of glitz and glamour to introduce her Swim & Spa 2011 collection. On Thursday, July 15, 2010 a global mix of fashion elite observed the preview of Trina Turk’s fresh approach to swimwear and beachwear.

Trina Turk set the stage with a dynamic collection inspired by the opulence of the Mexican world-class resort. The Swim & Spa 2011 collection, “Acapulco Gold,” included a strong variation of looks that included a range of exotic influences, vibrant colors and hypnotic prints. Acapulco’s pure exotica and tropical motif was featured throughout the collection of swimwear, beach apparel and accessories.

The collection’s color palette introduced citron, fuchsia and ultraviolet. Additional highlights included gold hardware inspired by handpicked vintage jewelry in brushed links, circular-textured rings and filigree X’s. The collection’s feminine silhouettes featured one-piece keyhole bandeaus, halters with intricately-woven fabrics through gold hardware, sash hipsters and bikinis with border prints.

Matching accessories such as light-weight cover-ups ranged from chiffon caftans and modal jersey keyhole halter dresses to border-printed silk tunics and super-fine knit jersey rompers. The collection also unveiled Mr. Turk menswear, classic American resort wear styling reworked with Trina Turk’s signature prints and bold colors adorning khaki-textured cotton shirts, polos, Bermudas and tweed shorts.

Clinique and Femme Coiffure Hair Spa teamed up with Trina Turk to complement the bold and flirty “Acapulco Gold” look with sun-kissed skin and flowing beach waves. Aside from the array of bikinis, one-pieces and cover-ups, several models pulled off an ultimate accessory – oversized straw hats.

Established in 1995, Trina Turk began as a collection of contemporary clothing for women and has since successfully grown into a lifestyle brand. Today, Trina Turk designs, markets and distributes full collections of women’s apparel, swimwear, accessories and home furnishings. Trina Turk is distributed throughout the United States in fine department stores including Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales and better specialty stores throughout the country. Her own boutiques in Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Burlingame and Newport Beach, CA, East Hampton and New York, NY, and Bal Harbour Shops in Bal Harbour, FL. For more information on Trina Turk, please visit www.trinaturk.com.

Photos courtesy Tara Ink.

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CoupTessa.com Announces Launch of Couponing Services and Tessa’s Dream Team in Miami 7/16/10

daily deals for women in Miami

CoupTessa.com Announces Launch of Couponing Services and “Tessa’s Dream Team” in Miami

SIGN UP HERE NOW!

CoupTessa.com, the newest online couponing site and social media platform for women, announces both the launch of their services, as well as, the kickoff of their own panel of experts so appropriately named, “Tessa’s Dream Team” this Friday, July 16, 2010.

Both announcements are reinforced by CoupTessa.com’s daily deals for women of 50%-90% off and the site’s donations of $1 per daily indulgence purchased to CoupTessa.com’s recent partner Susan G. Komen for the Cure Miami/ Ft. Lauderdale.

Savings savvy gals in Miami may now revel in the notion of accessing the “holy grail” of online indulgence resources. CoupTessa.com is partnering with the revered fashion stylists at Cutler Salon-Miami to offer a three- day deal. The special, which will run from Friday to Sunday, comprises a host of posh services usually reserved for the glitterati.

Tessa, the animated hostess for CoupTessa.com, assembled a nonpareil team of expert panelists including stylists, makeup artists, yoga masters and the like, to give her subscribers exclusive tips on all issues regarding health and beauty. Emily Thomas, the Director of Cutler Salon- Miami, is the first expert who will share her hair know-how with the members of CoupTessa.com. Tessa will interview a different aficionado from “Tessa’s Dream Team” each day.

CoupTessa.com utilizes various social media platforms to cultivate a movement of women enlivened by the prospect of daily self-indulgence. Deals of 40% or less are mere afterthoughts as discount mavens use their savoir fair to procure daily deals at 50% to 90% off at highly desirable venues. Services previously deemed too expensive, will now be accessible to all women and even those services already being utilized daily will become all the more attractive to our chic sophisticate.

“The tough economic climate has proven a powerful motivator in consumers seeking the most value for their money. We see social media platforms, such as CoupTessa.com, as an incredibly effective vehicle for women to find the best deals in their area, while engaging with other likeminded women in their own communities in an effort to exchange information and tips on the services and issues most important to them,” explains brpr Group Creative Director Gerard Bush.

Coveted daily indulgences supplemented with the awe-inspiring “Tessa’s Dream Team” along with charity culminates into the only plausible conclusion- a society empowered by the buying prowess of women exercising their right to not only have it all, but to also communicate on a site styled to promote every aspect of what it means to be a real woman.

In order to participate in this self-fulfilling three-day inauguration this Friday, July 16 and every future daily indulgence, subscribe to CoupTessa.com.

For more information about CoupTessa visit: www.couptessa.com
For more information about Cutler Salon-Miami visit: www.cutlersalon.com
For more information about Susan G. Komen for the Cure Miami/ Ft. Lauderdale visit: www.komenmiaftl.org
For more information about The brpr Group visit: www.brprgroup.com

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The Soul Of Miami Stage at The Miami Music Festival 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: James Echols

SOUL OF MIAMI TO SHOWCASE SOUTH FLORIDA ARTISTS AT MIAMI MUSIC FESTIVAL

(Miami, FL) June 14, 2010 – Soul Of Miami, a popular website for local events, has partnered with the Miami Music Festival. The multi-genre emerging artist festival and new music conference in South Florida taking place November 12-14, 2010 will feature a “Soul Of Miami” stage, which will showcase a selection of the area’s best independent acts.

The three-day, multi-stage event will feature acts of all genres from Florida, the U.S. and around the world. The Miami Music Festival conference for emerging artists will be held at the Hyatt Regency Miami and will offer a series of panels, master classes, workshops and interactive sessions designed to give musicians hands-on instruction and information about navigating today’s music industry.

“The Miami music scene is thriving and offers a nice mix of rock, alternative, Latin, urban, Caribbean and jazz artists. We expect to see some amazing local artists at the Soul of Miami stage,” said the festival’s CEO Irwin Kornfeld. This year’s event will showcase more than 500 performances by new and developing artists at venues throughout Miami and Miami Beach, including two daytime sessions on five stages at Bayfront Park, in addition to a show at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.

The Soul Of Miami website (soulofmiami.org) was started by James Echols and Annette Peikert in July of 2008 to share information about fun events taking place in South Florida. Without any marketing or promotion whatsoever, the Soul Of Miami quickly became very popular amongst scenesters and partiers. It is now the go-to site for thousands of locals seeking the best of Miami’s social offerings. “We are very excited to participate in the Second Annual Miami Music Festival. Miami sorely needs to promote its live music scene, and we are happy to be a part of it,” says Soul Of Miami co-owner James Echols.

A list of performing artists at the Soul of Miami stage will be available soon on their website, www.soulofmiami.org. For other information regarding the Miami Music Festival and Artists Conference, please visit www.MiamiMusicFestival.org.

Friday Night Summer Programs at The Wolfsonian–FIU

Friday Night Summer Programs
The Wolfsonian-FIU, 1001 Washington Avenue Miami Beach, FL 33139

Cap off your workweek this summer at The Wolfsonian, where the Friday happy hour (6 – 9pm with two-for-one beer and wine) is complemented by a series of eclectic and interesting events every Friday evening throughout the summer. Programming includes public talks, book signings, musical events, and movies. The Dyno’Night series of programs held on several Fridays features local music, authors, and more, and is conceived as a venue for community members to present and perform. Spots for Dyno’Nights are still available, so don’t be shy. Check out the season’s first Dyno’Night free event on Friday, June 25, 7pm when the local band Elevators presents its unique version of reggae music infused with hints of hip hop, ska, Latin, and funk. Band members include: Jorge Bernal (vocalist/turntablist), David Bernal (vocalist/percussion), Johnny Garantiva (vocalist/keyboard), Tommy Sanchez (bass), Chris Olivares (guitar), and Ray Ulloa (drums). In addition, the Café menu has been revamped for summer and features a great selection of soups, salads, and sandwiches catered by Lyon + Lyon. For more information about future programming or participating in Dyno’Nights, contact The Dynamo Shop and Cafe: 305.535.2680 or paola@thewolf.fiu.edu.

Sushi House Premieres Twilight Menu

Sushi House Premieres Twilight Menu
Premier Asian Fusion Restaurant in North Miami Beach Introduces Late Night Dining to the Neighborhood
Sushi House
15911 Biscayne Blvd
North Miami Beach, FL
After 11:30pm on Friday and Saturdays
After 10:30 pm on all other nights.

Sushi House in North Miami introduces a new twilight menu for all the late night foodies in North Miami Beach. For reduced pricing guests can enjoy many of Sushi House’s delicious appetizers, a full sushi menu and several SIGNATURE entrees. The late night offerings will also include signature favorites such as the Spicy Tuna Tower, Crispy Honey Shrimp, and Purple Plum BBQ Ribs. Along with the delicious fare, guests will receive A complimentary hot sake with their dinner order.

Just in time for menu’s launch, Sushi House has expanded with new outdoor seating featuring plush couches and fans with misters for those hot summer nights. The Twilight night menu is available after 11:30 on Friday and Saturday and after 10:30 all other nights.

Sushi House North Miami Beach: Sushi House, located on the border of bustling Aventura and North Miami, celebrates its fourth anniversary as the community’s top Asian Fusion restaurant. Dressed in chic whites and silvers offset by blue lighting, Sushi House’s décor is as fashionable as its patrons. Seating includes an expansive communal table composed of white marble and dramatically high aluminum chairs, smaller tables nestled in private nooks and bar seating with sushi chef views. The restaurant offers a diverse roster of inventive dishes such as Sushi Pizza, Pan Roasted Miso Black Cod, and freshly made sushi and sashimi appetizers and entrees. Sushi House recently introduced both happy hour and late night menus in celebration of their fourth anniversary as a neighborhood favorite. 15911 Biscayne Boulevard in North Miami Beach, FL 33160| 305.947.6002| www.sushihousenmb.com

Picnic is the Local European style bistro and lounge in the heart of South Beach Happy Hour and more

Picnic – Local European style bistro/lounge in the heart of South Beach
1400 20th Street @ Bay Road (Next to Publics) Miami Beach, FL 33139
INFO@PICNICMIAMI.COM
T: 305.673.4755 F: 305.673.4776
www.picnicmiami.com

Picnic Miami is a European style bistro/lounge in the heart of South Beach that brings an
imaginative new concept in dinning by offering American cuisine with international
flare. Our popular corner spot has an all day casual menu that can be enjoyed inside or
out where you can mix and mingle with a fun loving crowd in a chill and sexy vibe.

Happy Hour – Throwback Specials: 4 – 8pm
6 days a week. Monday – Sunday $3 Sangria’s
Thursday’s – $1 Sangria!!!
PBR Tallboys are $3 all the time

$5 Menu & Well Drinks & Beers
Guacamole & Chips
Bacon Wrapped Dates
Deviled Eggs – Sweet and Spicy
Beef, Sloppy Joe and Meatloaf Sliders
Mama’s Wings with Bacon Blue Cheese

HOURS OF OPERATION
Tues – Thursday 11am – 12am
Fri – Saturday 11am – 3am
Sunday 11am – Sunset

Take – Out & Delivery Availble

Make sure you keep in touch with us via Twitter & Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/picnicmiami
http://www.twitter.com/picnicmiami

Wondering what our menu is like? http://picnicmiami.com/Picnic_Menu.pdf

US Weekly Reporter Jill Martin to Guest Blog for Worldredeye.com

US Weekly Reporter Jill Martin to Guest Blog for Worldredeye.com
Emmy Nominated Television Personality to Contribute to Celebrity Photographer Seth Browarnik’s Recently Launched Worldredeye.com

Seth Browarnik, entrepreneur, celebrity photographer and principal of Worldredeye.com, is proud to announce Jill Martin as the second guest blogger for his pop-culture site. The Emmy nominated television personality who regularly contributes to ‘The Insider’ and ‘The Today Show’ is also known for her fashion expertise. Jill plans to share her weekly tips and tricks for updating your look, closet and life exclusively with the readers of Worldredeye.com. She is the second guest blogger in an esteemed list of local and national celebs and tastemakers who will be contributing to the site.

www.Worldredeye.com
Every Friday beginning on June 4th

In early May 2010, Red Eye Productions (REP) the predominant celebrity/social photo agency in South Florida launched Worldredeye.com, Miami’s first pop-culture blog. Worldredeye.com features pop-culture news content, backstage coverage of events and an insider tips about hotspots and happenings in Miami. World Red Eye users will get special access to all of REP’s celebrity photos and coverage of the most exclusive events. World Red Eye will provide expanded coverage of the events its sister company, Red Eye, services to national weekly gossip magazines, entertainment news sources, monthly regional publications.

Seth Browarnik, 33, is the founder of Red Eye Productions, the predominant celebrity/social photo agency in South Florida and World Red Eye, a blog and website focusing on behind the scenes reportage from inside the hottest events in South Florida, www.worldredeye.com. Browarnik started his career in 1999 working for the newly launched OceanDrive.com, the on-line version of South Florida’s premiere glossy, lifestyle magazine Ocean Drive, where his first assignment was covering the then nightclub of-the-moment, Liquid Nightclub. After an evening shooting Puff Daddy, Cher, Dennis Rodman, and a coterie of bold-faced names, he was hooked and found his niche becoming known as “the celebrity lensman of South Beach.” Among the characters of the South Beach nightlife scene Browarnik soon found himself making rounds 7 nights a week at the chicest lounges, clubs, restaurants, and hotels. The coverage in oceandrive.com soon expanded to monthly pages in Ocean Drive magazine where his “Shot on Site” pages have become some of the most widely read content amongst the countries trendsetters. Media outlets featuring Red Eye Productions photographs include The Miami Herald, CBS-4 news, OK! Magazine, People magazine, People.com, Us Weekly, In Touch, Life & Style, VanityFair.com, New York Post’s Page Six, New York Daily News, Access Hollywood, AccessHollywood.com, Extra, Entertainment Tonight, and more. In 2010 Browarnik launched World Red Eye, a personalized content provider with an emphasis on the Miami scene. While capturing the backstage of events and the velvet ropes World Red Eye will give viewers the opportunity to see themselves at “last night’s party” and will draw audiences into the culture of the entertainment photographer. A blog and newsletter, World Red Eye will feature the most exciting and of the moment events with photos, video and reportage with a view from the front row and inside the VIP area.

Jill Martin is a fashion expert, three-time Emmy-Nominated television personality, and author of “Fashion for Dummies.” Jill appears regularly on NBC’s Today Show discussing everything from the latest trends to how to shop on a budget. She is well-known for the wildly-popular Today Show “Ambush Makeovers.” Martin has done in-depth coverage from the Golden Globes and Oscars conducting celebrity interviews and discussing red-carpet fashions. A contributor to US Weekly magazine, the Long Island native can also be seen frequently on Access Hollywood, Extra, Entertainment Tonight and The Insider. A diehard sports fan, Jill is also a broadcaster for the New York Knicks, reporting during pregame and postgame shows and doing celebrity interviews at halftime. Her “Gimme-a-minute” segments are 60 second rapid-fire interviews with top celebrities who are sitting courtside. Some of her guests include John McEnroe, Robert Plant, Kevin Bacon, Ron Howard, and Spike Lee.

Posted in News   

Call to Designers: Fashion In Flight show celebrates emerging designers with focus on Austin, New York and Miami benefiting Austin Pets Alive 8/19/10

“Fashion In Flight” ~ The Collective Benefiting “Austin Pets Alive”
Thursday, August 19th, 2010
Fashion Show Event – Mexican American Cultural Center
After-Party – Hotel Saint Cecilia
Boutiques & Designers interested in participating, please contact Jessica Anderson at +1-646-325-7172 or Jessica@jessicaraeanderson.com.

An original, explosive and “experiential” fashion show to celebrate emerging designers from the US with a focus on Austin, New York and Miami. This event will take place during Austin’s annual Fashion Week. Over 250 exciting and notable guests will attend — an energetic, high-end charity fashion show in downtown Austin, including after-party at the exquisite Hotel Saint Cecilia. Guests will enjoy a true runway fashion show, doggie fashion show with the opportunity to “adopt”, “in-flight” themed entertainment, the opportunity to talk to and shop with local accessory boutiques and designers, while mingling and grooving to the sounds of a New York DJ . The official media sponsor for our event is Rare Magazine. Models will be provided by Wilhelmina Brown. Styling and hair will be done by Jose Luis Salon.

For more information: www.jessicaraeanderson.com/events
The Designer Deck PDF file.

Austin is one of the few cities on earth where nature, fashion, culture, the arts, music and urban sophistication merge so effortlessly. Our objective is to produce a fashion show, which promotes emerging designers, cutting edge style, evolving entertainment, while putting Austin on the international state. Our objective is to produce a fashion show, which promotes emerging designers, cutting edge style, evolving entertainment, while putting Austin on the international stage. This will be an opportunity for designers and attendees to network and get exposure to out-of-town figures as well. Equally important, we are supporting an animal charity, “Austin Pet’s Alive” which is a local organization that is working to make Austin a “No Kill” city.

During Austin’s Fashion Week, one of the most exciting events of the week will occur on Thursday, August 19th, 2010. This benefit event will be a remarkable evening with proceeds going to the charity, “Austin Pet’s Alive.” Bon Vivant LLC, and Jessica Rae Anderson will make over the Mexican American Cultural Center with an “In Flight” theme, for a night of fashion, DJ’s & live music, as well as great food and drink from local eateries. Models will grace the catwalk from Wilhelmina Brown.

Bon Vivant LLC, Nichole Wright, in Austin, Texas & Jessica Rae Anderson, Lifestyle Stylist, who is based in Miami, Florida, decided to host the “Fashion in Flight” for many reasons. Both women spent over ten years in New York City most recently and wanted to bring the excitement of a “true runway” Fashion Week to Austin and both have adopted dogs in the last year. “We really wanted to host a unique event that nurtures the design and fashion industry, gives participating brands international PR reach and supports an animal charity.”

Last Reminder: Early Bird Booth Registration for Art and Blues Fest Closes Tomorrow! June 1, 2010

Hi Everyone!

Just a quick reminder. Tomorrow, Tuesday, June 1, 2010 is the LAST day to get booths at the Tobacco Road Art and Blues Fest for just $200.00!

The event takes place on June 19, 5pm to 2am. Several Blues greats are playing and we expect a nice crowd. Tobacco Road is the oldest live music venue in Miami and regularly supports the arts.

This is an open call for all artists, crafters, artisans and vendors. For all the information and application forms, click here
http://www.lifeisartfest.org/blog/artandblues
Please read the instruction carefully.

If you miss this deadline, you can still register by June 14, 2010, BUT it costs more, so get your application in today!

See you there!

PS: We hope to have some more exciting news for this summer, so keep an eye out.

Sincerely,
James Echols
Life Is Art, Inc.
www.lifeisartfest.org

Posted in News   

Attention Mobile Users: New Format!

{A word from your editor here. If you use Soul Of Miami from a mobile device, please check it out again and tell us if you like the new, much easier and much faster mobile format.
At the top of the page, you will see a drop down arrow on the right-hand side. Press that, and just choose Tags, then pick the date you want and it pulls up everything on that date! For details on any event, just click the event title. If you do not like it, you can always revert to normal mode.}

Call For Artists: Tobacco Road Art and Blues Festival 2010 Supported by Life Is Art Deadline June 14, 2010

Life Is Art is proud to support Event Rhythm Management and the Tobacco Road Art and Blue Festival on June 19, 2010.

CALLING ALL ARTISTS!
Tobacco Road Art and Blues Festival 2010
Saturday, June 19, 2010
5: PM – 2: AM
Tobacco Road
626 South Miami Ave
Miami, FL 33130

You are invited to participate in the Annual Art and Blues Festival at TOBACCO ROAD. The year’s festival will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2010 from 5pm to 2am.
The Legendary TOBACCO ROAD, “Voted one of the 100 Best Bars in America” presents the most brilliant new Artists and Local Legends as they light up the Downtown Skyline in celebration! Supported by Life Is Art.
TOBACCO ROAD, Miami’s oldest bar, restaurant, cabaret and Mecca for live music & art is giving artists (professional and amateur) the opportunity to leave a mark on their 2010 Art and Blues Festival!
This year TOBACCO ROAD has an incredible & electrifying lineup.
Some of these bands include:
One of the Original Blues Brothers
Blues Legend Matt “Guitar” Murphy
The Nouveax Honkies
Iko Iko

Life Is Art is one of the sponsors for this event.
Exhibitor Space is limited
Artists Submission Deadlines:
Early Artist Special – June 1st, 2010
Final Artist Deadline – June 14th, 2010
NO COST TO APPLY

Download application and Information:
MS Word Format
PDF Format
Be sure you mention Life Is Art on your application.

Return All Documents To:
Event Rhythm Management, LLC
7601 E. treasure Drive, #708
Miami Beach, Fl. 33141
Tel. 786-223-2554

Malini Murjani Trunk Show at Curve Soleil

Malini Murjani’s Spring 2010 collection, champagne, and cupcakes were at the center of an elegant evening at the supremely chic Curve Soleil in the Gansevoort South, Miami Beach. This highly anticipated Trunk Show presented the Miami fashion forward set with a prime opportunity to peruse the designer’s spring handbag line while sipping some bubbly and indulging in Grand Marnier infused “Kupcakes by Kristie”. An attractive juxtaposition of the pieces, like the now famous Celine shoulder bag (as seen on the hit T.V show Gossip Girl) and trendy tortoise Megan clutch, lead the way as Trunk Show attendees surrendered to the Malini Murjani vision.

The Malini Murjani collection is a brilliant reflection of the designer’s lifestyle and constant osmosis from one culture to another; “Creativity is always at its zenith when it comes from a deeply personal place,” says Murjani. Signature elements like metallic mesh and tortoise shell, significant of the designer’s innovation and versatility, are exactly what attract style casters to her designs, often featuring the latest creations in international publications like Vogue Magazine and Harper’s Bazaar.

Curve Soleil has become the purveyor of global style on Miami Beach ensuring that residents are always on trend. Curve has built a solid reputation for having its finger on the pulse of fashion; with locations also in NYC & LA, the Miami offering made the perfect location for Murjani’s Trunk Show. “The Malini handbag line is fabulous and more importantly, current. We were really pleased to showcase this designer and make her introduction to Curve’s Miami customer,” raved Curve Soleil Manager Jennifer Binder. “We felt strongly that a collaboration between both the brpr spouses, Malini Murjani and Curve, was an obvious fit and that the boutique offered the ideal backdrop for Malini’s stunning pieces,” explained brpr Group partner Jennifer Batchelor. The night was all about fashion and catching up with Miami society in forecasting what else is going to be hot this season, other than the infamous Miami summer. This was definitely an evening where Serena Van Der Woodson herself would have certainly felt right at home.

Photographs supplied by BRPR  Group

For more information about Malini Murjani please see www.malinim.com
For more information about Curve Soleil please see www.shopcurve.com
For more information about The brpr Group please see www.brprgroup.com

Posted in News   

Vote for Soul Of Miami in the New Times Poll!


{And now, a word from your editor. Shameless plug time! The Miami New Times Best of Miami Poll is out now! If you are fans of what we do, please support us by voting for Soul Of Miami as Best Website. You can only vote once and no stuffing the ballot box. The poll only takes a few minutes, so go check it out right now. If you like what we do, remember to tell all your friends and link to us. VOTE NOW.}

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Life Is Art Results from the Knight Arts Challenge 2010

From Life Is Art:
As you know, we submitted several proposals to the Knight Arts Challenge, nine in total. All nine were turned down. The Knight Foundation received nearly 1000 ideas and I am sure they picked some awesome ones. We look forward to congratulating all the winners.

However, this does not stop us at all. I am going to post all nine ideas on our blog because we still plan to carry them all out, eventually! It may take us a bit longer, it may cost a bit more, but these are all plans that we think would be very beneficial to our arts and community. So, I am going to put them all here so you can have an idea of some of our goals. Your input and ideas are always welcome, so please feel free to post in the comments.

Click here for the full write-ups.

1) Life Is Art South Florida Featured Art Fair Series
2) After school cultural tour youth art program
3) South Florida Online Arts Wikipedia
4) South Florida Arts Council
5) South Florida Music Showcase
6) South Florida Arts Presentation Venue
7) This is SoFla! Long-term Introductory Residency Program for Non-residents
8) South Florida to the World – Worldwide Artist Program
9) The Knight ARTS Awards – Featuring… ART!

Click here for the full write-ups.

Sincerely,
James Echols
Co-founder
Life Is Art, Inc.
www.lifeisartfest.org

Posted in News   

Post your message for mom on a digital billboard for free!

PROCLAIM YOUR LOVE ON THE WORLD’S BIGGEST LOVE NOTE
DIGITAL BILLBOARD ON I-95 BROADCASTS PERSONALIZED MESSAGES DEDICATED TO ALL THE WOMEN WHO MAKE MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL

This upcoming Mother’s Day, East Coast Jewelry, the premier family-owned jeweler showcasing some of the finest timepieces and gems in the world in its three boutique locations throughout South Florida, launches a special promotion that will undoubtedly appeal to any starring lady, and won’t break the bank.

Starting on May 3, 2010 at 12a.m., East Coast Jewelry invites the public to post a message on its microsite — www.reallybiglovenote.com. The message, which should be no more than 60 characters, is then broadcast in real-time (screened of course) onto an eye-popping 14’ feet by 48’ feet digital billboard on heavily trafficked I-95 near the Linton Boulevard exit. The promotion, which ends on Mother’s Day, May 9, 2010, is gratis.

“It is Florida’s largest digital greeting card and anyone can share their sentiments honoring motherhood,” said Bobby Yampolsky, President of East Coast Jewelry. The promotion is not only a homage to mothers by the established jeweler, but showcases their trendsetting vision in digital technologies and luxury goods.

In addition to displaying their “love notes” on a billboard for all to see, visitors to the microsite can enter their email and name to register for a drawing to win a $2,500 East Coast Jewelry gift certificate, good towards any in-store purchase. Registration ends at midnight on May 9th, and the winner will be announced Mother’s Day.

Show the special woman in your life how much you appreciate her by visiting www.reallybiglovenote.com. Tell your mom, grandmother, wife, aunt or sister just how much she means to you this Mother’s Day. To see the billboard and its heart-felt messages, drive on I-95 northbound towards West Palm Beach. The board is located on I-95 near the Linton Blvd. exit, and will be broadcasting unique, personalized mother’s day content from May 3 – May 9, 2010.

About East Coast Jewelry
About East Coast Jewelry East Coast Jewelry has been south Florida’s premier choice for fine gems and exquisite timepieces since 1986. Founded by father and son team Michael and Bobby Yampolsky, East Coast Jewelry is committed to providing the highest standard of personal service and the finest quality jewelry and watches to its loyal customer base. East Coast Jewelry currently has three locations, including Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, Boca Raton and Collins Avenue in Sunny Isles Beach, FL, with additional galleries opening soon. For more information, please visit www.ecjusa.com.

Posted in News   

Nora’s Will, Jewish Comedy Named Best Picture of the Year in Mexico Now Playing in south Florida

Introducing NORA’S WILL: the Jewish Comedy Named Mexico’s Best Picture of the Year – Now Playing in Miami & South Florida

Mexico’s Best Picture of the Year is now playing in Miami! “Nora’s Will” (Cinco Dias Sin Nora) has been drawing big crowds and rave reviews all over the world, and is now playing exclusively in South Florida theaters. Winner of 7 Ariel Awards (Mexico’s Academy Awards), including Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay, the film by first-time writer/director Mariana Chenillo also won the Audience Award at the 2009 Miami International Film Festival. Don’t miss your chance to see this incredible film!

Synopsis: Nora had a plan. It would bring her ex-husband, Jose (Fernando Lujan), and the rest of their family together for one last magnificent Passover feast. But there is a flaw in her plan- a mysterious photograph from the past, hidden under the bed, which leads Jose to re-examine their relationship and rediscover their undying love for each other.

Now Playing at:
Tower Theater (at Miami Dade College)
1508 S.W. 8th Street
Miami, Florida 33135
(305) 643-8706

Regal Shadowood 16
9889 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33434
(561) 482-2296

Regal Delray Beach 18
1660 South Federal Highway
Delray Beach, FL 33483
(561) 272-2900

For more info and to watch the film’s trailer, visit www.menemshafilms.com.

RELEASE: Selling Andy Warhol in your Pajamas

Miami Art Dealer Turns Art World on its Ear by Selling High-End Works Online

The typical morning starts at 6am. Miami art dealer and curator Reed V. Horth wakes up before sunrise and checks his Blackberry for the most urgent international clients who have emailed during the night seeking investment artworks. He virtually hop scotches from Hong Kong to Dublin, London, Toulouse, Dubai and finally Hanover. After quickly prioritizing his emails into incoming dealer inquiries and outgoing client inquiries, he sets to work on locating precisely the correct sculpture or painting for the given client, whether corporate or private, investment or decorative, figurative or abstract. Obviously, the biggest names carry the most weight and receive the biggest priority. As the day progresses he works his way from time-zone to time zone locating art and placing the art in the hands of clients and partners who are best suited to benefit from the connection.

Horth is part of a growing number of business-owners working from home as the market for traditional brick-and-mortar businesses is tightening and most are turning to alternate modes of commerce. His internet-centric company, ROBIN RILE FINE ART (www.robinrile.com) specializes in the location and procurement of investment-level paintings and sculpture with prices starting at $5,000 and working their way to over $20 Million. Many of the world’s most important masters have had works come through Horth’s hands in the past 13 years, including works from Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Indiana, Arman, Marc Chagall, Rembrandt van Rijn, Julian Schnabel, Fernando Botero, Frederick Hart, Richard MacDonald and others. He also has a growing contingent of emerging talent in figurative and contemporary paintings and sculpture. RRFA conducts exhibits, such as the highly successful SATELLITE Art & Design show during Art Basel Miami Beach 2009, and other Art openings throughout Miami and South Florida. This allows both established clients to edify themselves as to the physicality of ROBIN RILE FINE ART, as well as exposing new collectors to both Mr. Horth and his stable of artists. Future plans include international traveling exhibitions with a combination of both emerging talent and established masters.

“It is the blue-chip names that get your foot in the door”, says Horth, dressed in his customary work pajamas. “You know, [Andy] Warhol, [Pablo] Picasso, [Marc] Chagall, [Salvador Dali]. But, once you are chatting with clients, they tend to throw out some other, often obscure, names that they really want to collect. What is nice is that they also tend to “discover” my emerging artists and are surprised by the level of talent we have located. One of the luxuries I have is that I am not bound by space, time, geography or budget in my searches. If a client is serious about locating a major work, I go out and find it. If a client wants a particular emerging artist… I go out and locate them. If I know a client is serious, it may take me months, but I will find what they want at a price which is fair to both buyer and seller.”

After having been in the gallery business throughout Florida since 1996, Reed has mastered the art of sales-floor selling. But, in 2003 he developed a nearly complete virtual model for perpetuating online sales. “While I still enjoy doing exhibits and meeting clients face-to-face,” notes Horth, “the online model is a way many high-end clients are developing relationships with a dealer they trust to give them objective advice before actually committing to purchase. The world is a much smaller place now and clients want a small group of trusted people to weed the wheat from the chaff.” Obviously, he notes, reputation is key to success with this model. After a successful transaction, he asks each client to give him one referral of a friend or associate that might benefit from his expertise and inventory. “After all, their friends are generally in the same tax bracket”. Beyond this, he also must be extremely selective about what to present and what not to present. “There are a lot of Charlatans out there who want you to move works without proper documentation,” Reed warns. “You only get one chance with a client at this level. If the paperwork is wrong, the best thing that can happen is that the client never speaks to you again. The worst is that you end up in court. Why would anyone take a chance like that with their clients? So I reject about 90% of the art I am presented with.”

In this economic climate you might expect fewer people buying art as it is traditionally seen as a luxury expense. Horth finds that most of his collectors are active simply because their financial position allows them more leverage in this market than others. “Not having to pay for a second rent, power, phone, light bulbs and everything else that goes into a galleries allows me to give my clients the great deals they are looking for right now. While not a miracle worker, this flexibility keeps my inventories from going static. I was completely set up with this business model at just the right time. The market slumped and I hit my stride all at the same time.”

Under his watchful eye, museums, private and institutional investors, collectors and designers have sought his advice on projects and curation. While not exactly Hugh Hefner, the pajamas are certainly one distinguishing characteristic this high-end dealer has found that set him above from the rest in a tough economy.
More can be seen at www.robinrile.com and www.robinrile.com/blog.
Contact:
Reed V. Horth or Kat Barrow
ROBIN RILE FINE ART
info@robinrile.com

Posted in News   

Knight Foundation Names Dennis Scholl as VP of Arts

Knight Foundation Names Vice President of Arts
Renowned Arts Philanthropist and Contemporary Collector
Dennis Scholl Will Expand Knight’s Cultural Arts Program Nationwide
Dennis Scholl , Miami program director for the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, will take on a new role as vice president / arts to develop a nationwide cultural arts program for Knight.
Scholl, a longtime arts advocate who joined Knight in 2009, will work with leaders in key communities around the country, where the Knight brothers owned newspapers, to fund innovative cultural programs that enhance community engagement. Those Knight communities are: Akron, Ohio; Charlotte, N.C.; Detroit, Mich.; Macon, Ga.; Miami, Fla.; Philadelphia, Pa.; San Jose, Calif.; and St. Paul, Minn.
In Miami, Scholl currently leads the Knight Arts Challenge, a $40 million initiative to unite South Florida through the arts. The program includes $20 million in endowment grants to leading institutions, plus a community-wide competition for the best ideas to transform the local cultural scene. Finalists in the contest’s third round will be named in May.
“Dennis’s passion for the arts, as well as his experience and success as an entrepreneur and art collector, makes him the perfect person to expand Knight’s support of the arts nationwide,” said Alberto Ibargüen, president and CEO of Knight Foundation. “He will identify opportunities for cultural enrichment and offer new and effective strategies to use the arts to inform and engage communities.”
Scholl’s first priority will be to visit Knight communities on a “listening tour,” meeting with cultural leaders and representatives from cultural institutions and arts councils to begin to determine needs and encourage cultural momentum in targeted areas.
“The expansion of Knight Foundation’s arts program is a great opportunity to use the arts to enrich people’s lives and unify entire communities,” Scholl said. “I’ve already witnessed the uplifting impact a vibrant arts scene can have on communities, even in a difficult economic environment.”
From philanthropist to art collector to filmmaker, Scholl’s role in the arts is broad. A renowned contemporary art collector for more than 30 years, Scholl has led local and national philanthropic efforts in the visual arts. Scholl served as founding chair of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum’s Photography Committee, the Tate Modern’s American Acquisitions Committee and the Miami Art Museum’s Collectors Council. He has also served on the boards of the Aspen Art Museum, the Miami Museum of Contemporary Art, and as chair of Locust Projects, an alternative art space in Miami. Since its inception, Scholl has also served on the Host Committee of Art Basel Miami Beach.
Scholl earned a regional Emmy nomination in 2009 as a cultural correspondent for Plum TV, a resort-based television network with eight stations across the United States.
A founder of the international wine venture Betts & Scholl, he previously practiced law, worked as a C.P.A. and restored 20 historic Art Deco properties on South Beach, contributing to the island’s rebirth.
Scholl received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Florida International University and a law degree from the University of Miami.
About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation advances journalism in the digital age and invests in the vitality of communities where the Knight brothers owned newspapers. Knight Foundation focuses on projects that promote informed, engaged communities and lead to transformational change. For more, visit www.knightfoundation.org.

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New hire announcement Sarah Magoon joins Steak 954 at W Fort Lauderdale

TEAK 954 INTRODUCES PASTRY CHEF SARAH MAGOON
Renowned Restaurateur Stephen Starr Continues To Raise The Bar on Dining With Out Of This World Desserts
Fort Lauderdale, FL – Famed restaurateur Stephen Starr, whose culinary empire includes Buddakan and Morimoto in Philadelphia and New York City, welcomes pastry chef Sarah Magoon to the team at Steak 954 in Fort Lauderdale – a twist on the traditional steakhouse. Magoon is set to refine Steak 954’s already delectable pastry options. From the Peanut Butter Soufflé to Passion Fruit Cheesecake, Magoon’s efforts fit in to Stephen Starr’s Steak 954 goal of forever raising the bar on dining in South Florida.

“I am happy to be a part of Stephen Starr’s Steak 954. With such a great response from the community I look forward to adding my experience and recipes to the dessert menu” says pastry chef Sarah Magoon.

Magoon, a Connecticut native and graduate of The Institute of Culinary Education in New York moved to South Florida in 2004. Since then she has spent time perfecting her delectable masterpieces at Mark’s on Las Olas and has appeared at the South Beach Food and Wine Festival. Magoon found a passion for baking at an early age, by the time she was in fifth grade she had perfected a coffee cake that she still bakes for all her family get-togethers. From the first coffee cake she ever baked to today’s more sophisticated soufflés and famed ssticky ccarrot ccake, Magoon prides herself on perfection in the pastry kitchen.

“We are pleased to welcome Sarah to the team. We have revolutionized the dining experience in Fort Lauderdale, providing our guests with fine dining and now introduce top notch pastries and desserts,” says owner Stephen Starr.

Located on the ground floor of W Fort Lauderdale, the 4000 sq ft restaurant is situated oceanfront and offers an invigorating and eclectic dining experience complete with genuine hospitality. With quality cuisine and a chic atmosphere, Steak 954 is a favored dining spot for locals and tourists alike. Stephen Starr provides something for everyone with his delectable masterpiece, Ft Lauderdale’s own Steak 954.

Founded in 1995 by Stephen Starr, Philadelphia-based Starr Restaurants is one of the fastest growing multi-concept restaurant companies in the country. After many successes in Philadelphia, Starr Restaurants expanded to New York City and Atlantic City and has now made its way to Florida. Starr’s development of numerous trend-setting restaurants earned him the titles of Bon Appétit magazine’s “Restaurateur of the Year” in 2005 and Zagat Survey’s “Restaurateur of The Year” in 2007.

Steak 954 is located at 401 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. Dinner served daily, 5:30pm – 10:00pm, Sunday – Thursday, 5:00pm – 11:00pm Friday and Saturday. Lunch served Monday – Friday, 11:00am – 2:30pm. Weekend Brunch served, 7:00am- 2:00pm Saturday and Sunday. For Steak 954 reservations, please call 954- 414-8333 or visit opentable.com.

Sushi House Rolls Out Happy Hour Specials in Celebration of Four Year Anniversary

Sushi House “Rolls Out” Happy Hour Specials in Celebration of Four Year Anniversary
$5 Drink Specials, 2 for 1 Drink Specials and Discounted Food Specials
WHERE: Sushi House
15911 Biscayne Blvd
North Miami Beach, FL
WHEN: 5:30pm-7:30pm
Tuesday-Sunday
WHO/WHAT: In celebration of its 4th anniversary, Sushi House in North Miami introduces a new happy hour menu that includes three specials. Sushi House will be offering 2 for 1 drink specials on all house liquor and select cocktails, $5 specials including Chardonnay, Merlot, Hot Sake and beer and a special discounted happy hour menu featuring a Spicy Seafood Salad, Ceviche and an assortment of sushi. So come celebrate four years of Sushi House, while beating the rush in style.
About Sushi House Sushi House is located at 15911 Biscayne Boulevard in North Miami Beach, FL 33160. The restaurant serves dinner Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30 pm-2:00 am. Sushi House is closed on Mondays. Reservations are recommended, please call 305.947.6002. For more information about Sushi House, please call (305) 947-6002 or visit the website at www.sushihousenmb.com

Knight Foundation awards millions of dollars to Teach for America to increase the number of Miami-Dade Public School teachers

Teach For America To More Than Triple Number of Its Local Teachers With the Help of a $6 million Knight Foundation Grant
Teach For America, which helps raise educational standards in Miami-Dade’s highest-need neighborhoods, will more than triple its number of local teachers, thanks in part to a $6 million grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. By 2014, some 350 Teach For America educators will reach more than 25,000 local students, the national nonprofit announced today.
“Miami-Dade children are our future economic, cultural and civic leaders. We owe it to them – and this entire community – to provide them with the knowledge and skills to improve our collective future,” said Dennis Scholl, Knight Foundation’s Miami program director. “Teach For America, with its proven track record of raising educational achievement, is the right fit for Miami-Dade.”
“Teach For America has seen that, when students are held to high expectations, their growth is exponential,” Rebecca Fishman Lipsey, executive director of Teach For America Miami-Dade, said. “Every child can achieve, and with Knight Foundation’s support, and ongoing fundraising, we are going to make that a reality.”
Teach For America’s teachers and alumni work to eliminate educational inequity in low-income communities nationwide. Through the program, top college graduates and professionals commit to teach for two years in urban and rural public schools, and become lifelong leaders in the effort to end educational inequity.
Since expanding to Miami-Dade in 2003, the program has produced tangible results. For example, the typical Miami-Dade student in a Teach For America teacher’s classroom advances 1.5 reading grade levels over just one academic year. Those same students have also improved their FCAT scores.
At Central Senior High, Teach For America’s Kimberly Williams has quadrupled the number of her students passing the FCAT “retake.” As a result of her leadership, her students who previously failed the FCAT are on a different life path.
Due to the organization’s impressive impact, the Florida Department of Education has said Teach For America is a top way to raise achievement for students living in poverty.
“Miami-Dade is home to some of the best teachers in the nation and under the leadership of Superintendent Alberto Carvalho, they have achieved great academic success with their students,” said Education Commissioner Dr. Eric J. Smith. “The expansion of Teach For America through this generous grant from Knight Foundation is going to push that progress even further. I anticipate positive results as these proven educators bring their expertise to the area’s struggling schools.”
“We are thrilled with our growing partnership with Teach For America and we see our working together as critical to raising achievement in our most fragile schools,” said Alberto Carvalho, Superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
Knight Foundation’s grant will help Teach For America jumpstart more local fundraising to fuel its expansion and defray the costs of recruiting, training and supporting each new teacher. For more information about supporting Teach For America in Miami-Dade, contact 786-245-8407.
About Teach For America
Teach For America is the national corps of outstanding recent college graduates who commit to teach for two years in urban and rural public schools and become lifelong leaders in expanding educational opportunity. Today, 7,300 corps members are teaching in 35 regions across the country while 17,000 Teach For America alumni continue working from inside and outside the field of education for the fundamental changes necessary to ensure educational excellence and equity. For more information, visit www.teachforamerica.org.
About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation advances journalism in the digital age and invests in the vitality of communities where the Knight brothers owned newspapers. Knight Foundation focuses on projects that promote informed, engaged communities and lead to transformational change. For more, visit www.knightfoundation.org.

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Carlos Cruz-Diez Lights up Miami with Exhibition of Interactive Chromatic Installations


Artist Recently Chosen to Create Signature Artwork for New Marlins Stadium Introduces his Groundbreaking Work to South Floridians
Carlos Cruz-Diez: The Embodied Experience of Color
March 19 – June 20, 2010
On view at Miami Art Museum from March 19 through June 20, 2010, the exhibition invites visitors to become participants in the artwork, experiencing color through their interactions with four light installations, including the groundbreaking Cromosaturación (Chromosaturation), 1968. Carlos Cruz-Diez recently made headlines when he was selected to create a major artwork feature for the new Miami Marlins Stadium.

Carlos Cruz-Diez: The Embodied Experience of Color explores the artist’s pioneering contribution to experimental practices with color and perceptual structures in the 1960s and 1970s that proposed new definitions for the art work as a field of participation. For more information, visit miamiartmuseum.org or call 305.375.1705.

The exhibition will feature Cromosaturación (Chromosaturation), a site-specific environment designed by the artist that focuses on the relationship between color and perception. Initially conceived in 1965 and presented for the first time in 1968 in the Ostwald Museum in Dortmund, Germany, this work consists of three separate color chambers infused with red, green and blue light. The real content of this work is the visitor’s experience of walking through the shifting chromatic space and interacting over time through his physical movement.

More Information.

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Musical Missionary a label for charity


Musical Missionary is a nonprofit charity and electronic music record label dedicated to providing music and arts education to underprivileged youth. Musical Missionary accepts donated music from accomplished electronic music producers and releases it under the Musical Missionary label to raise money for this cause. According to founder David Collado, “Musical Missionary was born from a passion to promote quality electronic music artists and to feed that energy back into the development of future artists.”

To date, Musical Missionary has received dozens of donated tracks from talented EDM producers such as Chris Fortier, Stryke, Alland Byallo, Pointbender, Darren DuVall, and MikeZ among others. The label’s debut release, “Between the Streets EP” by Darren DuVall was released on January 26th, and can be purchased on iTunes, Amazon, Beatport, Traxsource, Juno Download, Stompy and other online music outlets. Musical Missionary’s second release, “Left Brain EP” by Pointbender, will be available April 6th and releases by Chris Fortier, MikeZ and Alland Byallo will follow soon after.

Profits from label sales will be used to sponsor music lessons for deserving students who would otherwise be unable to afford the lessons. Musical Missionary has established a relationship with SoBe Institute of the Arts, an after-school music and arts program that allows members of the community to sponsor students who need financial assistance. Musical Missionary sponsored a student during the program’s Fall 2009 season and plans to expand sponsorship activity for this upcoming Summer season and beyond.

Musical Missionary is seeking electronic music producers interested in donating original unreleased tracks and/or remix work for future releases. For information on how to contribute, or for more information about Musical Missionary’s music, mission and people, visit www.musicalmissionary.com.

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agua at Mondrian receives T+L Design Award and offers spa discounts in appreciation

Morgans Hotel Group’s agua at Mondrian in South Beach received the Travel + Leisure 2010 Design Award for Best Spa. Recognized as one of the most outstanding new examples of design and architecture in the traveler’s world, agua was selected by an esteemed panel of judges including Isaac Mizrahi and Michael Smith.
In appreciation of the award, agua invites guests to design their own experience at Mondrian in South Beach. Choose from a vast selection of spa services such as the exclusive Sjal Blue Kashmir-Saphir Facial, agua Milk and Honey Body Treatment or an Ultimate Pedicure and receive 20% off when you book two of more treatments. Guests who book the rooms package will also receive 15% off the best available rate at time of booking and daily continental breakfast for two at Asia de Cuba.
agua is distinct for it’s design by world-famous star Marcel Wanders. Inspired by Sleeping Beauty’s castle, the manicure area is accessed through a hidden door in the perforated, patterned wall, where thrones await guests. The mirrored mosaic of the reception desk scatters light across the dimly lit room, sparkling across every corner. Guests can enjoy the outdoor private balconies, wind down in the sauna or steam room, or be pampered in one of the treatment rooms.
Please contact our spa expert at mondrianaguadesign.concierge@morganshotelgroup.com or call 305.514.1950 to design your experience. This offer is available March 16 – May 31, 2010. Promo code SPFAST. For more information on Mondrian, please call 877.809.0007 or visit www.mondrian-miami.com.

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Newly Renovated Hotel Astor Remains Premier Boutique Hotel In South Beach


NEWLY RENOVATED HOTEL ASTOR REMAINS PREMIER BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN SOUTH BEACH
Chef Douglas Rodriguez Takes Residence with Cuban Inspired Restaurant and Nightspot

Miami Beach, FL (February 2010) – After a series of cosmetic renovations, Miami’s legendary boutique hotel has pushed its way back to the forefront with a full stylistic overhaul. While remaining true to its art deco roots, all 40 guest rooms at Hotel Astor have been upgraded along with improved amenities. The hotel also boasts a new restaurant, spa and fitness center.

All standard guest rooms at Hotel Astor now come with cherry or whitewashed hardwood floors, leather couches and plasma TV’s. The top-of-the-line Astor Suite, has been updated with rich back lit marble bar, sleek white leather furniture and expansive manicured sundeck overlooking the garden. The hotels new spa and fitness center, Spa Ghawdex, features a facial center, manicure station and two tranquil massage rooms. To go along with its already exemplary attention to detail, Hotel Astor has also implemented VIP guest services including personal preference accommodations in rooms such as liquors, snacks, magazines and preferred pillow type. The Hotel Astor will also go out of their way to make each guest’s night unforgettable; staff members will even escort their guests past the velvet ropes of Miami’s hottest clubs.

To accompany the renovation of décor, renowned Chef Douglas Rodriguez brings his Cuban inspired dining and nightlife destination, D.Rodriguez Cuba, to the trendy boutique hotel. Rodriguez made a name for himself with his starring role on ‘Top Chef Masters’ along with several acclaimed restaurants across the country, including South Beach’s Ola Nuevo Latino. The menu at D.Rodriguez Cuba features a selection of Nuevo Latino delights such as Oxtail Empanadas and Casabe Crust Tuna pizzas.

The restaurant also incorporates a nightlife and entertainment component featuring a live salsa band nightly. Following the traditions of old Havana, guests are encouraged to round out their dining experience with cocktails and dancing throughout the dining room, and in the adjacent Astor Lounge and cigar bar.

Hotel Astor was designed by architect T. Hunter Henderson in 1936 as an Art Deco masterpiece. The property endures as a bastion of luxury, modern design, and simple sophistication. With its contemporary transformation, Hotel Astor is poised to become the most sought-after boutique accommodations on Washington Avenue. Hotel Astor is located at 956 Washington Avenue in Miami Beach, Florida. For reservations call 305.531.8081 or visit www.HotelAstor.com.

Tonino Lamborghini Caffe Corsa Opens in The Village at Gulfstream Park

TONINO LAMBORGHINI CAFFÉ CORSA OPENS ITS FIRST US LOCATION

Tonino Lamborghini, whose father introduced the world to the ultra-sleek Lamborghini sports car, has parlayed his generational sense of style and decadence into Tonino Lamborghini’s Caffé Corsa, at the new Village at Gulfstream Park in Hallendale, FL. An upscale Italian eatery, with all the style you expect from the Lamborghini name, Tonino Lamborghini is the newest locale for light bites, cocktails or a full dining experience, set within South Florida’s hottest outdoor entertainment destination for shopping, dining and nightlife.

Under the direction of Italian-born Executive Chef Paolo Del Papa, the restaurant presents homemade pastas, assorted meats and cheeses, fresh salads, handcrafted Neapolitan pizzas and traditional Italian desserts. Signature dishes include the Penne Alla Bolognese Lamborghini Style, Branzino Al Forno with lemon artichokes and asparagus, and La Milanese, veal with arugula, tomato and lemon dressing. An extensive wine list curated by master sommelier Massimiliano D’Agostino offers a taste of the varied regions of Italy and the Tonino Lamborghini brand while cocktail creations include the Lambor-Mosa with Maker’s Mark, orange juice, maple syrup and Prosecco, and the Café Chocolate Tini, Grey Goose, white and dark chocolate liquors and espresso.

The restaurant is distinguished by a clean, modern Italian design that incorporates elements of Tonino Lamborghini’s rich history of panache and elegance. The bold black, red, white and silver color palate is drawn from the famed charging bull logo whose shield silhouette is also reflected in the ceiling design. Luminous wall-sized photos showing historical Lamborghini family pictures are mixed with modern art work, subtly linking the past and present. The retro vibe is further enhanced by blending modern finishings, sleek leather banquettes and onyx tabletops with rough, textured flooring that evokes the Italian tradition of hand craftsmanship.

Hours: Open for brunch, lunch and dinner. Mon–Wed 11:30am-11pm | Thur-Fri 11:30am-midnight | Sat 10:30-midnight | Sun 10:30am-10pm

Tonino Lamborghini Caffé Corsa is located in The Village of Gulfstream Park at 501 South Federal Highway, Hallendale Beach, FL 33009 | 305.456.4500 | www.toninolamborghini-caffecorsamiami.com

Steak 954 Launches Sunset Menu

Steak 954 Launches Sunset Menu
Announcing Snacks and Specialty Cocktails for the in-between Hours
WHO/WHAT: Stephen Starr’s Steak 954 introduces the new Sunset Menu offering light bites and drinks in the hours between lunch and dinner. Previously closed from 2:30-5:30pm, Steak 954 now opens its doors for those who crave the culinary styling’s of Chef Jason Smith around the clock. The sunset menu will offer select items from the raw bar as well as some “Snack954’s” such as the Big Eye Tuna Tacos and the Mini BLT. Specialty cocktails also available including the Sunrise cocktail to go along with the Sunset.
WHERE: Steak 954
401 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd
Fort Lauderdale, FL
WHEN: 2:30pm-5:30pm
Available Daily
About Steak 954 Located on the ground floor of W Fort Lauderdale, the 4000 sq ft restaurant is situated oceanfront and offers an invigorating and eclectic dining experience complete with genuine hospitality. With quality cuisine and a chic atmosphere, Steak 954 is a favored dining spot for locals and tourists alike. Stephen Starr provides something for everyone with his delectable masterpiece, Ft Lauderdale’s own Steak 954. Steak 954 is located at 401 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. Dinner served daily, 5:30pm – 10:00pm, Sunday – Thursday, 5:00pm – 11:00pm Friday and Saturday. Lunch served Monday – Friday, 11:00am – 2:30pm. Weekend Brunch served, 7:00am- 2:00pm Saturday and Sunday. For Steak 954 reservations, please call 954- 414-8333 or visit opentable.com.

Life Is Art REALLY FAST Call for Artists and Performers for ESSENCE on March 13

Greetings Everyone!

So, we are excited to announce that we are doing the ESSENCE art walk after party this month on March 13th at the Parafernalia Studios. We have space for a few more artists and other creative disciplines.

***We are also looking for live performers***
If you sing, dance, read poetry, do theatre or any other form of live performance and would like to present your work, please let us know!

If you are interested in participating, please send the following to art@lifeisartfest.org.
NAME:
EMAIL:
PHONE:
ADDRESS:
ART STYLE:
ARTIST STATEMENT:
Attach up to FIVE (5) images in JPG format with the following information:
Title, Size, Medium, Year, Price
For musicians and other performers, include a link to a sample of your work, Youtube videos are acceptable.
All formats are accepted for submission.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Friday, March 5 at 11:59pm.
I apologize for the short notice.

EVENT DETAILS
March 13, 2010
8:00pm – 2:00am (or possibly later)
174 NW 25th St, Miami FL 33127

Thank you very much!
James Echols
Co-founder
Life Is Art, Inc.
www.lifeisartfest.org

News – Knight Arts Challenge now accepting submissions through March 15, 2010


{Editor’s Note: This is a VERY exciting opportunity for everyone interested in the arts in south Florida. ANYone can apply. And the application process is neither complex nor daunting. The Knight Foundation has done a wonderful job of making it simple. I absolutely encourage everyone to look into this and submit your ideas.}

Knight Arts Challenge Opens Contest

Deadline March 15
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation is now accepting applications for the Knight Arts Challenge, a community-wide contest that aims to bring South Florida together through the arts. Have a big idea for the local cultural scene? Submit it through March 15 at KnightArts.org.
It’s your turn to inspire our growing local arts scene.

If you have a great idea in the arts, let us know. Take part in a community rising to new levels of artistic achievement and global recognition. In the last two years, 51 ideas were funded. Is this your year?

John S. and James L. Knight Foundation is seeking ideas and innovation in the arts from nonprofits, companies and individuals. There are three simple rules:
1. The idea is about arts.
2. The project takes place in or benefits South Florida.
3. You find other funding to match the Knight Foundation grant.

So far, 51 individual artists, small nonprofits and the area’s largest institutions have won funding from the challenge. The Knight Arts Challenge’s application is designed to be simple to attract a wide range of applicants, including those who are not traditional foundation grant seekers.

A video produced by Soul Of Miami with some of the 2009 winners. Knight Foundation’s Dennis Scholl opens the video with a very good description of the program

Press Release here.
More Information Here.
Apply Here.

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Little Haiti Based Non-Profit Responds to Meek’s Call for Leadership

Little Haiti Based Non-Profit Responds to Meek’s Call for Leadership

Art Studio Miami Increasing Capacity to Serve Youth Impacted by Haiti Earthquake

January 22, 2010, Miami, FL- Little Haiti based Art Studio Miami (ASM) is ramping up volunteer efforts in response to the anticipated influx of refugee children pouring into Miami from earthquake ravaged Haiti. ASM annually serves approximately 200 youth from the impoverished area of Little Haiti, and staff expect demand to increase dramatically in the coming months as children orphaned by the earthquake arrive in South Florida.

Kendrick Meek (D-FL) addressed news crews on Tuesday at the City of Miami’s staging area for Haiti relief, located directly across the street from ASM. Meek called for local organizations to provide leadership and support during the long period of rebuilding.

“South Florida is in this for the long haul; this will be the center for the recovery. . . and we are going to need leadership and understanding,” said Meek.

In response to Meek’s appeal, ASM volunteers and staff have begun working around the clock to prepare for additional students in the coming months. An army volunteer teaching artists and administrators have stepped up to provide holistic programming that will allow children impacted by the disaster to express their feelings through creative projects that prepare them for academic success.

“We must provide safe spaces where youth can heal and build solid foundations for better lives,” said Art Studio Miami Founder and lead volunteer, Rachel Hughes.

Since 2007, ASM has served over 500 youth from Little Haiti and Overtown using creative, art based projects to nurture students’ creative thinking abilities and prepare them for classroom settings and job situations. The organization partners with professional artists and community leaders to provide students with mentors and concrete tools to remain in school, and gain stable employment after graduation. Programs incorporate yoga, meditation, and deep breathing to help student’s develop positive ways to address the distressing living situations they face daily.

“In the wake of this disaster, people are forgetting that many Haitian people who have already immigrated to Miami are in desperately impoverished conditions, living below the poverty level, which in several cases means homelessness, no running water, and little to no food or water,” said Hughes.

According to Hughes, many of the youth served at ASM are struggling to obtain an education due to language barriers and health issues from lack of water, food and clean living conditions.

Hughes is calling on the Miami business and philanthropic communities to provide financial support and supplies for youth being served at Art Studio Miami. Donations of non perishable food, bottled water, and funding are being accepted to offset the costs of increasing programming. Donations can be made starting Monday at www.ASMHelpLittleHaiti.org or by calling the ASM office at 786-317-8118.

ASM volunteers are also on the ground in Haiti. A team of ASM volunteers left for Port-au-Prince early Tuesday morning to assisting directly with the relief efforts on the ground. Nearly all of the students served at ASM have family still in Haiti.

Art Studio Miami uses art as a tool for educational, emotional, and career development. Through the arts, we teach life skills to prepare students for successful futures. Youth in foster care, homeless situations, and extreme poverty depend on us to provide tools that empower them to gain stable employment and contribute to our community.

Art Studio Miami programs go far beyond art – they are lifelines out of poverty. According to the Florida 11th Judicial Circuit Court’s Juvenile Justice Board, one in three youth in the area served by ASM will be imprisoned by age twenty-one. Our programs focus on dismantling the ‘Cradle to Prison Pipeline’ by providing students with mentors and tools to create a future free from the crippling effects of poverty.


Art Studio Miami
7230 NW Miami Ct
Studio #5 Purple Door
Miami, Fl 33150
Phone. 786.317.8118
www.ArtStudioMiami.org
“Every Child is an Artist. The Challenge is How to Remain an Artist Once We Grow Up.” –Picasso

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Hotel Astor Assists In Directing Global Soap Project Efforts To Haitian Relief

Hotel Astor Assists In Directing
‘Global Soap Project’ Efforts To Haitian Relief

Thousands Of Bars Of Used, Discarded Hotel Soaps To Be Recycled And Delivered To Hatian Earthquake Victims

In an ongoing effort to do it’s part for international aid, the Hotel Astor has been working with a network of hotels across the united states to collect discarded used bars of soap to contribute to the ‘Global Soap Project,’ which recycles the soap and distributes to suffering countries. Today, there are millions of people throughout central and eastern africa, struggling to survive with limited or no access to clean soap and water. The Hotel Astor and the Global Soap Project realizes that without proper hygene and opportunitites for disinfection, the hatian mortality rate will continue to grow. Over 2.6 million bars of soap are discarded daily — just 1 ton of used soaps can be melted down, disinfected and repoured into to making over 10,000 new bars of soap.

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Miami Heat Tickets – Life Is Art Fundraiser and Art Showcase

The Miami Heat is doing a fundraiser for Life Is Art!

Buy a regularly priced ticket here and the Miami Heat is donating a portion of the proceeds to Life Is Art.
In addition, Life Is Art will be presenting an art showcase at the game.
All money raised goes to further Life Is Art’s mission to support the arts and community in south Florida.

Game Details: March 14, vs. Philadelphia 76ers, 6:00pm
American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL 33132





PLEASE NOTE: All tickets must be purchased through Life Is Art.
You need not have a Paypal account to purchase, credit cards and checks accepted via Paypal.
Be sure to include your mailing address.
Anyone can buy tickets. Tell your friends. Use them as gifts. Support your arts!
Tickets will be mailed to you at no cost.
The Miami Heat has reserved us a block in the 300 section, so you will be sitting with other Life Is Art Fans.
The art showcase will take place in the courtyard between the Arena and Bongos. More info soon.

For any questions, please email art@lifeisartfest.org

Local Collection Sites for Haiti relief

From Michael Capponi
Everyone,
We need your help now. We will be collecting much needed supplies today and tomorrow to bring on our flights to Haiti starting on Tuesday. We are working in conjunction with United Way and Project Medishare to transport and distribute the necessary aid to the people of Haiti. Please donate anything you can….nonperishable food, water, medical supplies. Below is a list of urgent needs…I urge you to either donate money to www.projectmedishare.org or buy these supplies yourselves at local pharmacies and drop them off at my office: 1835 Purdy Avenue, Miami Beach, FL33139 on Monday since I will be flying out Tuesday.

Supplies
stretcher
bandages all kinds
pampers newborns
scrubs
hand disinfectant
cholohexidyne
surface disinfectant
coolers w freeze packs
Materials for Cast
Antibiotics oinment and injectable
Gauzes
Iodine solution
Sutures
Gloves
Surgical masks
scrubbings materials
surgical gowns,
sutures removal kits
anesthesia materials like Endotracheal tubes
LMA’s
anesthetics agents like Forane, Ethrane, Propofol, Succynilcholine
some narcotics like Fentanyl, any pain medication
anything for wounds dressings
surgical instruments like basic sets for amputations
2 or 3 small sterilizers

Below please find the press release from our Mayor’s office about local Miami-Dade collection sites. With the help of all parties involved we are making huge progress to help those in Haiti. We are now asking all of you to take our mission to the next level. Please support any way you can and no donation is too small. The human condition in Haiti is beyond description and help is needed as quickly as possible.

Thank you for your continued support and your immediate response.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY LIBRARIES, POLICE AND FIRE STATIONS TO OPEN AS COLLECTION SITES FOR HAITI RELIEF

In the wake of Thursday’s earthquake in Haiti, Miami-Dade County is taking the next step in continuing local relief efforts. Beginning Sunday, January 17, 2010, all Miami-Dade County police and fire stations, as well as libraries, will serve as drop off sites for the collection of much needed supplies to send to the people of Haiti.

At this time, officials are asking that donated items be limited to nonperishable food, water, gloves of all types, surgical masks and camping tents. At this time, Miami-Dade collections are being limited to only the specified items, not clothing or other goods.

Miami-Dade County is partnering with a number of Miami-Dade municipalities in this effort, including Hialeah, Coral Gables, Homestead, North Miami Beach, North Miami, Miami, Miami Beach, Miami Springs, Sweetwater, South Miami, Pinecrest, Florida City, Golden Beach, El Portal, Miami Shores, North Bay Village, Bay Harbor Island, Surfside, Indian Creek, Miami Gardens and Miami-Dade Public Schools. (Cities have designated their own drop off locations, which may not include municipal police and fire stations or libraries.)

“There has been an outpouring of support for the Haitian community and our residents have been looking for any and every way to donate items,” Mayor Alvarez said. “Miami-Dade County is proud to partner with other communities in this countywide effort.”

“The needs in Haiti are great and Miami-Dade County is eager to provide life-saving goods to people who are suffering,” said Commissioner Audrey Edmonson. “Donations are just another way show our support for Haiti and its people.”

While all libraries are closed on Monday, January 18, 2010 in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Day, the following library locations will be accepting donations on Sunday, January 17th and Monday, January 18th, from 1 pm to 5 pm.

MIAMI BEACH REGIONAL
227 22 ST.
MIAMI BEACH, FL 33139

NORTH DADE REGIONAL
2455 NW 183 ST.
MIAMI GARDENS, FL 33056

SOUTH DADE REGIONAL
10750 SW 211 ST.
CUTLER BAY, FL 33189

WEST DADE REGIONAL
9445 CORAL WAY
MIAMI, FL 33165

WEST KENDALL REGIONAL
10201 HAMMOCKS BLVD.
MIAMI, FL 33196

KEY BISCAYNE BRANCH
299 CRANDON BLVD.
KEY BISCAYNE, FL 33149

For more detailed information on drop off sites, residents can call 3-1-1 or go to www.miamidade.gov.

**Miami-Dade County continues to encourage monetary donations through the Red Cross or other recognized international relief agencies.

New Club in South Beach – The Strip Miami-Just a Tease


SHOCK AND AWE ARE ALWAYS ON THE MENU AT THE STRIP

Exclusive Entertainment Venue Opening in the Heart of South Beach Offering a Unique Mix of Cutting Edge Erotica Paired with World Class Performance Art

Those privileged enough to embark on this salacious journey will be shocked and amazed by the boundless surprises waiting to be uncovered within The Strip. Cutting edge erotica paired with the most shockingly seductive performances are what set The Strip in a class of its own within elite nightlife entertainment. Located in the heart of the uber sexy South Beach, The Strip combines the most scintillating mix of erotic performance art, musical talent and ultra exclusive clientele housed in a truly iconic location. Combining the raw sex appeal of the most daring Burlesque shows with the elegance of Old Hollywood The Strip creates an unparalleled treat for the eyes and loins.

This proverbial Pandora’s Box of erotic surprises is busted wide open by the most enchanting yet nefarious burlesque performers, fire-eaters, body painters, shape shifters, and aerialist acrobats. Scandalous costumes adorn not only the entertainers on stage but our entire cast of VIP hostesses to insure our special guests an awe inspiring experience from the moment they set foot in The Strip. The discreet yet voyeuristic design of the interior allows for guests to fulfill their innermost erotic fantasies while being titillated by the endless raw sexual energy oozing from every crevice.

The Strip is located at 330 Lincoln Road in the very heart of South Beach. The address housed nightlife sensation Rumi in years past and has now been converted into a vast pleasure den complete with second story stage, performance areas throughout the entire venue, state of the art sound and lighting systems and even a peep show booth.

The lavish décor of The Strip can only be described as the Golden Age of Hollywood meets vintage burlesque. Ornate 12 foot crystal chandeliers, plush velvet lounge seating, floor to ceiling fringe, suspended swings and performance apparatus are sure to guests upon entry of the vast space. A completely private VIP room with two way glass, personal bar area, stripper pole, fur covered walls and sofas along with club chairs and television screens is perfect for the A-lister wanting a space where almost anything goes. Every square inch of the venue has been created for optimal privacy and maximum visibility to allow every guest to be seduced by this erotic playground as soon as they pass through the velvet ropes.

The Strip has put together a “Dream Team” of entertainment talent including Emmy nominated choreographer Glenn Douglas Packard, highly acclaimed performer, vocalist and songwriter Tokyo Diiva, and the uniquely twisted performance art of WildChild. Rounding out this list of top talent is resident DJ Jeffrey Tonnesen from The Box New York who has performed at events for Prada, Donna Karan, Veuve Cliquot’s Manhattan Polo Classic, Venice Film Festival, Miu Miu, and Diane Von Furstenberg.

Complimenting this outstanding cast of performers, The Strip boasts a management and design team with over 50 years combined experience in the nightlife entertainment industry. Heading the team is nightlife guru Eric Levin of the Chili Pepper, Rumi, and Karma in Atlanta along with James Butler of Prince’s famed Glam Slam Miami and LA.

The Strip is located at 330 Lincoln Road Miami Beach and will be opening January of 2010. Please direct all inquiries to jadee@jadeeproductions.com or 305.785.2170. Please visit www.thestripmiami.com for reservations.

Helping Haiti

{The tragedy in Haiti has been intense. Many people and groups have mobilized in Miami and around the world to render aid. Listed below are some ways you can help. If you are involved in a relief effort, please send it to us via our Contact Page and we will add it to this list.}

CNN Report
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Much of this list courtesy of Talknightlife.com.
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Supply Truck 1st and Alton, Miami Beach FL

As you know, Haiti has been demolished. My LEED education company, Sustainable Four, along with PrimeTime Boat Rentals at Miami Beach Marina, are sponsoring a humanitarian relief collection point at:
WHERE: 1st Street & Alton Road
WHEN: Starting at 6PM tonight
WHAT: A 26′ truck, so please look out for it
Facebook Evite
If I’m not there, please place your donations in the truck as it will be there 24/7 until it’s completely filled up.
We need to be smart about specifically what to collect, so that maximum humanitarian relief is achieved because Haiti has DESTROYED HOSPITALS and NO POWER. Therefore, please donate what you can in the following categories.
SHELTER: Sheets, Blankets, Towels, Tents (there are $35 tents at WalMart), Tarps
POWER: Candles, Flashlights, Flashlight Batteries – D cells, Matches / lighters, Lanterns + lantern oil
MEDICINE: Rubbing alcohol, Hydrogen peroxide, Iodine, Bandages, Gauze, Aspirin, Soap, Baby diapers
FOOD: Canned food with TAB OPENINGS not requiring can openers – soup, tuna, etc, Energy bars, Bottled water
We will accept anything you can provide, but we feel those categories are most important now. Please TRY make sure that your donation is placed in BOXES or STURDY PLASTIC BAGS. If you can, please MARK your box/bag indicating WHAT’S INSIDE.
THANK YOU. And be thankful this didn’t happen to us.
Dirk DeSouza
My cell number is 305 710 3829
——————–
If you are able to spare $5 right now to help Haiti? Send the donation by text and it will appear as a $5 charge on your phone bill. “Donate $5 to help Haiti. Send the text “YELE” to 501501 to donate $5 to Yele Haiti for relief efforts. ~Wyclef Jean”
http://www.yele.org
CLICK HERE – Be aware of certain issues with this charity.
——————–
Doctors Without Borders
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The Salvation Army
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Food for the Poor
http://www.foodforthepoor.org/about/contact.html
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The American Red Cross International Response Fund OR text “HAITI” to “90999” and a donation of $10 will be given
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Photos you need to see.
New photos are still getting added to this link.
——————–
Six Ways to help Haiti
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Worldvision
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A family friend from Haiti is collecting supplies at his warehouse in Miami that will be sent directly to the people of Haiti. If you can help with any relief supplies, food, clothing, medical supplies, etc., it would be greatly appreciated. In care of Chris Dupuy – 645 NW 72nd Street, Miami, FL 33150.
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The Vagabond is acting as a drop-off point for supplies every night they are open this week.
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Sunday School for the Generous

$10 door donation of which 100% goes to the Red Cross. Plus The Pickle will have all-day drink specials and contribute a quarter of bar sales to the relief fund. Let’s all get together, get down, and get some much needed aid to Haiti!!
——————–
Follow the Haiti crisis on Twitter.
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MIAMI EMERGENCY Hip Hop, Zouk, & Rock Fundraiser for HAITI EARTHQUAKE SURVIVORS! THIS FRIDAY NIGHT (8pm-12am!) @ CHURCHILLS. $10 entry fee. To volunteer, sponsor: 305-761-6843. POST THIS AS UR FACEBOOK STATUS!
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The earthquake has caused devastation of unimmaginable proportions and the Haitian people need our help now more than ever. Many of you have contacted me asking how to help in this tragic situation and I appreciate your support very much. I’m starting a collection of food, clothes, supplies and money to send to Haiti through my non-profit organization Papaloko4Kids Inc.
The collection center is at: Jakmel Art Gallery / Papaloko4Kids
7646 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL 33138
You can bring or send your donations there. You can also contribute monetary donations writing a check to Papaloko4Kids Inc. (indicate: Haiti hearthquake). Bring it or mail it to:
Papaloko4Kids Inc.
7646 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL 33138
Everything is going to Haiti! Thank you for your support and prayers
Jude Papaloko Thegenius
———————-
Attention Friends of MiaSci:
As a concerned community partner, we are reaching out today to share information as to how you could easily and efficiently participate in the relief efforts for Haiti. We are completely supporting Miami-Dade County’s plan of action as delineated by Mayor Carlos Alvarez. Click on the link below and you will find the Mayor’s message detailing the plan.
http://www.miamidade.gov/mayor/mayor_portal_messages/haitian_disaster_relief_2010.asp
Mashable, the social media guide, has also offered a list of credible agencies (endorsed by MSNBC) that are currently helping bring direct aid to Haiti. These agencies are accepting donations via the web and a few will even accept a text message commitment via cell phone. Please click on the link below for the article and links to these service organizations.
http://mashable.com/2010/01/13/haiti-earthquake-donate-help/
Thank you for your help in advance. Feel free to forward this message to your contact lists.
Together we can all help Haiti and its people during this very difficult time.
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This Saturday! Locos Por Juana Yelé Benefit Show @ Transit Lounge!
Join Local Impact, Brava Bravo, Soula Booking, JLPR and Locos Por Juana this Saturday @ Transit Lounge as we set out to benefit YELÉ HAITI!
Please help our brothers and sisters in Haiti! Unete a la causa este sábado con tu donación! $5 suggested donation at the door, more accepted and appreciated.
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Haiti – Support Suggestion from Power Of Love Productions
And what we personally offer,
Go to our Label page and any Music Sold until end of January will be donated to the Red Cross Donation or To YELE and TXT 501501
go to http://www.junodownload.com/labels/Power+Of+Love+Productions/releases/
OR anything you purchased on our Merchandise Store all 50% of the Net Income will be donated to Redcross or YELE
here the Store Link
http://apps.facebook.com/rn_store/store_direct/artist_15341
To make sure your that we see what you have purchased, please send me message once you have purchased an item!
We will after the end of Month citate all donors on a special Honoring Newsletter and chart!
So Please support the needy, by purchasing music, merchandise, ringtones, and so far.
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Beginning on Thursday, January 14, 2010 The Vagabond will be a central drop off location for desperately needed essential goods such as diapers, blankets, clothing, water, food, or any other much needed supplies to benefit the people of Haiti. Goods and non-perishable food items can be dropped off during the club’s hours on Thursday, January 14th, Friday January 15th, Saturday January 16th, Tuesday, January 19th, and Wednesday January 20th. All donated goods will go to Notre Dame d’Haiti Church who will distribute them to those in need throughout Haiti.
The Vagabond
30 NE 14th St.
Miami, FL 33132
http://www.thevagabondmiami.com
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Haitian Relief Effort in Miami
Sunday, January 17, 2010
9:00am – 7:00pm
Haitian Relief Effort- Miami Warehouse
7230 NW Miami Ct.
Miami, FL
We need volunteers from 9 AM until late each night. Friday Saturday Sunday Monday
Shipping will happen on Monday. Will need a steady stream of volunteers throughout.
Please wear closed toed shoes and clothes to work in.
If you want to donate.
Most needed items full cases of water, medical supplies rice, beans, canned protein tuna, chicken, If it’s possible to combine and pay for full pallets from a bulk retailer that is ideal.
South Florida do what’s easy donate your hurricane kit!
Volunteer line 305-219-8091
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Haití, un país que ya sufre día a día de extrema pobreza, se ha visto azotado por un seísmo de grado 7,3 en la escala Richter. El terremoto ha afectado gravemente al país caribeño. Ante esta devastadora situación, queremos apoyar al pueblo haitiano. Desde Casa de Madrid proponemos las siguientes vías de ayuda:
Donaciones: Recogida de material de primera necesidad
Teléfono de contacto: 305.994.7644
Casa de Madrid conjuntamente con REMAR, ONG española que trabaja en Haití, realiza una RECOLECTA de todo el material de primera necesidad que las víctimas de este terrible suceso puedan necesitar: COMIDA NO PERECEDERA, AGUA, ROPA, COLCHONES, MANTAS, TIENDAS DE CAMPAÑA, MEDICAMENTOS…
REMAR enviará en UN GRAN CONTENEDOR con todo lo que los voluntarios vayan donando. Se pasará por las casas y oficinas de todo aquel que quiera colaborar, para recoger las donaciones. …more info
Ayuda Monetaria
ACCION CONTRA EL HAMBRE
CAJA MADRID 2038 / 1052 / 44 / 6000741510
Referencia: Emergencia Haití CASA DE MADRID …more info
Ayuda Monetaria
Cheque por correo: American Red Cross
P.O. Box 37243
Washington D.C. 20013
Referencia: Haiti Relief (AP-2885)
Ingreso On-line …more info

Posted in News   

Cleveland Orchestra Miami Residency expands educational and community collaboration programs in the Miami-Dade community

Cleveland Orchestra Miami Residency expands educational and community collaboration programs in the Miami-Dade community

The Orchestra’s Miami Residency continues to develop through expanded education and community programs that serve thousands in the Miami-Dade area. The Orchestra’s residency activities in Miami were conceived and made possible with the leadership of the Musical Arts Association of Miami, the Miami-based support organization dedicated to fundraising for the Cleveland Orchestra Miami Residency.

A new component of The Cleveland Orchestra’s Miami Residency in 2010 is an in-school performance by the entire ensemble, titled “Meet the Orchestra,” at Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School, a Miami-Dade County Public School. Music Director Franz Welser-Möst and the full Orchestra will participate in this historic event.

Other educational activities in January include curriculum-based programs with “I Have a Dream” students at Hibiscus Elementary School in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools district and with students from various schools at Coconut Grove Cares/The Barnyard, and an orchestral and teacher workshop at Coral Reef Senior High School. Numerous in-school activities are planned, including coaching sessions with orchestral students at New World School of the Arts as well as “Musical Rainbows,” lively programs that introduce children to instruments of the orchestra, one at a time, at four Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Activities with Miami-Dade County Public Schools are supported by an Access to Artistic Excellence grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

In 2010, community partnerships will expand beyond inaugural partners (the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County, University of Miami Frost School of Music, New World Symphony, and Miami-Dade County Public Schools) to include Coconut Grove Cares/The Barnyard, the Miami-Dade County Department of Public Affairs, Miami Music Project, Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Overtown Youth Center, Sunday Afternoons of Music, Arts for Learning, Miami Music Mentors, and the Archdiocese of Miami.

Since the beginning of The Cleveland Orchestra’s Miami Residency in 2007, The University of Miami Frost School of Music has been an important institutional partner. In 2010, Frost School of Music residency activities will include choral conducting coaching sessions with Cleveland Orchestra Director of Choruses Robert Porco, a chamber composition reading session, and a series of masterclasses and forums, including a Music Education Forum led by Cleveland Orchestra Director of Education and Community Programs Joan Katz Napoli.

Support for the Miami Residency is provided by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, and the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. The 2010 Miami Residency sponsors are Feldman Gale, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, and Northern Trust. The residency media partners are Classical South Florida 89.7 FM, WLRN, The Miami Herald, and El Nuevo Herald.

Posted in News   

JAM at MAM – CANCELLED by Miami Art Museum 1/21/10

{Normally, on the third Thursday of every month, the Soul Of Miami crew excitedly rolls out to our favorite monthly party, JAM at MAM. It is a great way to just relax in a nice artsy atmosphere. JAM at MAM was the reason we became members of the Miami Art Museum. It was one of the main avenues through which we were brought into the art scene in Miami. And now, the Miami Art Museum management has cancelled it for unspecified reasons. Below is the message in their recent email.}

JAM @ MAM: As 2010 gets underway, Miami Art Museum is planning to relaunch JAM @ MAM in a new format to offer an even more meaningful experience to South Florida residents and JAM at MAM’s loyal following. Beginning in January, the third Thursdays event will not take place until further notice; please check miamiartmuseum.org or the NOW @ MAM calendar for updated event listings.

{We think this is a big loss for the city, and being as MAM is a public organization, we want to make our response public. I am sending the below email to the Miami Art Museum. If you would like to send your own, try sending it to news@miamiartmuseum.org or membership@miamiartmuseum.org. If we get better information, we shall post that, too.}

[Dear Miami Art Museum,

As a long-time member, who was originally converted by the excellent JAM at MAM series, I have to say that discontinuing it seems like a really bad idea. I know that it has converted many other people, including several of our friends, as well, into museum members and art lovers. I have watched the JAM, over the years, change from a small group of old ladies to a large, energetic crowd of people of all ages, including young people.

JAM at MAM introduced so many new people to the Miami Art Museum, and to the arts themselves. People who would not have normally come to an art museum began attending on a regular basis and being exposed to new and interesting work.

Certainly over the past few months, the event had lost some of its luster. Fewer live music acts and less variety in programming, as well as a lack of changing exhibitions led to a decline in attendance, but even at its lowest, there was still a decent crowd. The big crowds could easily have been brought back by more exciting programming. This was a program loved by many.

The city is losing an important cultural activity by the shutting down of JAM at MAM. Why is this being done? Was it really such a drain on resources? Why take such a popular event and stop doing it? How has the feedback been? I look forward to hearing what the future of this will be.

Sincerely,]

Posted in News   

David Drebin Pop-Up Store Opens In South Florida


DAVID DREBIN POP-UP STORE OPENS IN PALM BEACH, FL

Unique concept store features a diverse collection of celebrated artist’s cinematic photographs depicting epic scenes and dramatic cityscapes from New York to Monte Carlo

The first of its kind, the David Drebin Pop-Up Store has opened in Palm Beach, Florida, located in the Royal Poinciana Plaza, just three doors east of the illustrious Palm Beach Grill.

Featuring a diverse collection of epic cityscapes, cinematic dreamscapes, and other glamorous scenes, Drebin’s photographs have been showcased at international galleries, art fairs, and auctions around the world. The Pop-Up Store will offer Drebin’s one-of-a-kind, limited edition prints, light boxes and artist’s proofs at one of Palm Beach’s most exclusive retail addresses for a limited time.

Notably, the store’s space was planned by acclaimed designer and former David LaChapelle collaborator Craig Maldonado, who is known for his ability to marry art with architecture to make a bold statement. The artist’s work, coupled with the builder’s design, together make the David Drebin Pop-Up store this season’s must-see destination in Palm Beach.

For a preview and more information on Drebin’s work, please visit www.daviddrebin.com.

340 Royal Poinciana Way, Suite 328
Palm Beach, FL 33480
(561) 659-7317
PopUp@daviddrebin.com

Monday – Saturday: 1:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Sunday: 1:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

About David Drebin
David Drebin graduated in 1996 from the Parsons School of Design in New York City. Soon after, he began creating major advertising campaigns for Mercedes, Conde Nast (Fashion Rocks), Adidas, and many others. He has successfully completed editorial assignments for magazines such as Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, and ESPN Magazine, photographing celebrities including Charlize Theron, John Legend, Michael C. Hall, Michael Jordan, and Fergie, to name a few.
Drebin’s work has been exhibited in galleries around the world, including Fahey Klein in Los Angeles, Camera Work in Berlin, Young Gallery in Brussels, and Torch Gallery in Amsterdam, as well as in numerous International Art Fairs, including Paris Photo, Art Miami, Scope New York, and others on the global Art Fair circuit. His large-scale photographs have also recently been on display at The House of Photography Museum in Hamburg, Germany. In April 2009, Drebin broke auction records when his work “Movie Star” garnered more than twice the asking bid at Philips De Pury in New York and subsequently sold out.

Arts at St Johns – We want your stories for History of Miami Beach the Musical

WYWHpcCall4stories9i
WISH YOU WERE HERE – the history of Miami Beach – The Musical has plenty of opportunities for individuals, performers, organizations and businesses to be part of this show!
Please contact us if you have stories about living, working or visiting Miami Beach, particularly in its earlier years!!
Mark Your Calendar Now!! March 19, 20 and 21, 2010!
performances at St John’s on the Lake, 4760 Pine Tree Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33140

305.613.2325
artsatstjohns@bellsouth.net
visit our website at www.artsatstjohns.com

Posted in News   

Bass Museum Of Art And Café Bustelo Commission Limited-Edition Demitasse Cup

Bustelo Cups 005b

Bass Museum Of Art And Café Bustelo Commission Limited-Edition Demitasse Cup

Created by visual artist Dzine

MIAMI BEACH, FL (November 2, 2009) – Bass Museum of Art and Café Bustelo announce their partnership to commission a yearly series of numbered, limited-edition demitasse cups created each year by a different contemporary visual artist of Hispanic background.

As organizations with rich historical pasts and vibrant futures, Café Bustelo and Bass Museum searched for an artist whose work reflected this energy. For the first cup in the series, they recruited Chicago-based artist Carlos Rolon (a.k.a. Dzine), whose work is inspired by beauty, desire, pattern, op-art, and the juxtaposition of highbrow and Chicano lowrider Kustom Kulture. The artist himself grew up drinking this traditional Hispanic-style espresso. In fact, his mother to this day orders a monthly supply from Miami, making him a natural fit for the project. The demitasse cup reflects his signature manifestation of bold colors and patterns.

While the cups offer an opportunity to take a piece of art and culture home, the Bass Museum also invited Dzine to create an all-over, site-specific wall painting presented in their new café and lounge. The café project is part of Dzine’s solo exhibition at the Bass Museum, which includes new sculpture, paintings and installations made specially for the exhibition.

The Dzine demitasse cups — a perfect holiday gift — will be available exclusively at Bass Museum of Art and online at www.bassmuseum.org, starting November 28. Each cup retails for $20. All proceeds from sales will benefit Bass Museum of Art.

About Dzine: From site-specific wall installations, to his custom Cadillac Fleetwood and crystal encrusted sculptures and paintings, Dzine’s prolific manifestation of colors, patterns, textures and sound fuse into a modern phenomenon that reveals thought-provoking combinations. Continuously inspired by Lowrider and Kustom Kulture, Dzine has been able to bolster the semantics of this genre by stretching the boundaries further with his traditional studio practice and bringing never- before-seen products to the table that contribute a unique vernacular to contemporary art.

About Bass Museum of Art: Located in the heart of Miami Beach, the Bass Museum of Art collects and exhibits some of the world’s finest art from the past through the present. Founded in 1963 when the City of Miami Beach accepted a gift of 500 works of art from collectors John and Johanna Bass, the museum has since doubled in size to 35,000 square feet, including new galleries and outdoor exhibition spaces. In addition to housing one of the best collections of Renaissance and Baroque artwork, Bass Museum’s temporary exhibitions for 2009/2010 curated by Executive Director Silvia Karman Cubiña include Dzine; Where Do We Go From Here?/Selections from The Jumex Collection; and The Mummy Project. The Bass Museum also offers lectures, film and video series, music and dance performances, open houses, free family days, and educational symposia on a regular basis. www.bassmuseum.org

About Café Bustelo: Rowland Coffee Roasters has a history dating back to 1930s of producing espresso in the traditional Hispanic style. With a family tradition of creating savory and aromatic coffee, the family believes the best coffee is achieved through quality beans and roasting perfection. Today, Café Bustelo is one of the leading and most recognizable coffee brands in the world and is part of Rowland Coffee Roasters, Inc. parent to over 12 different coffee brands brewed in the company’s state-of-the-art facility in South Florida. Café Bustelo is available throughout the United States and the Caribbean at most supermarkets and grocery stores, as well as online at www.cafebustelo.com and www.javacabana.com.

Get Your Tickets for Wicked Before the General Public

wicked
March 3 – March 21
Sanford and Dolores Ziff Ballet Opera House

Special Offer for Broadway lovers.
Purchase your tickets before they go on sale to the general public on Friday, January 15th.

Back by “Popular” Demand! The New York Times calls WICKED “Broadway’s biggest blockbuster,” and when it first played in Miami in 2007, it broke box office records and sold out in record time!

Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One – born with emerald green skin – is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch makes for “the most complete and completely satisfying new musical in a long time.” USA Today

Presale: NOW
Public On Sale: Friday, January 15 @ 10 a.m
BUY TICKETS NOW
and enter promo code YELLOWBRICK or use the promo code when you call our box office at 305.949.6722.
The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County
1300 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL 33132

Miami New Times is Hiring! Job Fair 12/16/09

00128828
New Times Job Fair Open House

Multi Media Sales Rep Wanted
We are Looking to Fill 3 Positions
Earning Potential of $40K+ First Year

December 16, 2009
4pm to 7pm
New Times Building – 1st Floor
2800 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami

Multi Media Sales Reps will sell local print and digital advertising on miaminewtimes.com & browardpalmbeach.com, as well as numerous partner websites for the Voice Local Network, including Urban Spoon, LikeMe.net, and Check Out My Ink.

As a Multi Media Sales Rep you will sell clients a large platform of print and digital products including weekly print advertising, special issues, web banners, email blasts, SMS text messages as well as event marketing sponsorships for New Times events to a wide variety of businesses: restaurants, night clubs, bars, retail stores, doctors, spas, real estate, etc.

Requirements:
2+ years of direct business-to-business sales experience
Strong understanding of SELLING digital platforms
Positive, energetic, self-motivated
Effective time management skills
3 verifiable job references
College education preferred
Bilingual preferred

New Times Benefits Include:
Unlimited Earning Potential
Base Salary Commission Bonus
Cell Phone and Gas Reimbursement
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Insurances
401(K) Plan
Paid Vacations
Additional optional benefits include: Legal Plan Services, Pet Insurance and Auto/Home Insurance

Posted in News   

Press Release – Art Basel Miami Beach | Final Report

abmb

{This is the official press release from Art Basel Miami Beach. We will have a our own review tomorrow. If we do one. Or are we all Baseled out?}

Exceptionally high quality and very solid sales at Art Basel Miami Beach 2009

The eighth edition of Art Basel Miami Beach closed on Sunday, December 6, 2009. More than 250 galleries from North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa exhibited works by over 2,000 artists. With a program of special exhibitions, panel discussions, private collection tours, and events fea¬turing film, performance, and video, the show attracted 42,000 visitors. Visitors included art collectors, museum directors, curators and cultural journalists from all over the United States and the rest of the world. A great number of artists also attended the event, among them Chuck Close, Ingar Dragset, Claire Fontaine, Matthew Day Jackson, Kris Martin, Marilyn Minter, James Rosenquist, Fred Tomaselli, Ai Weiwei, Pae White, and Kehinde Wiley. Over 100 museum and institution groups also visited the show, as did private collectors from the Americas, Europe and many emerging markets of the artworld.
Art Basel Miami Beach proved again that high-quality works remain in strong demand,as collectors rewarded excellent material and booth presentations with steady sales throughout the week. The new layout of Art Basel Miami Beach included larger spaces for many galleries. Many exhibitors also reported excellent sales and valuable new contacts, especially in Latin America. Gallerists offered positive reports, including:

David Zwirner, David Zwirner Gallery, New York
“This was a surprisingly strong show. The show certainly confirmed the trend that started at Art Basel in June. This art market is stabilizing and gaining momentum. During the last twelve months, most business was conducted with established collectors. Here in Miami,it was nice to see some altogether new faces. While most business took place below one million dollars, there were also trades above that figure.”

Tim Neuger, neugerriemschneider, Berlin
“We came with a solo presentation by Jorge Pardo, who wanted us to show a large scale architectural piece, one of his palapas (a tropical pavilion) and it generated a lot of interest, indeed. Believing in idealistic gestures is once again becoming reality.”

Roger Tatley, Director, Alison Jacques Gallery, London
“We’ve had a great Art Basel Miami Beach. The response from museums has been fantastic and sales strong. The decision to exhibit a large group of Hannah Wilke works from the 1970s, along with iconic vintage self portraits by Mapplethorpe, together with other gallery artists, has been extremely rewarding.”

Robert Peter Miller, Robert Miller Gallery, New York
“Because of the artists we represent, I feel that we benefitted from the less freneticand more contemplative pace of the fair. We had many more sales than in any previousArt Basel Miami Beach.”

John Mollett, Director, Jan Krugier Gallery, New York
“This year shows that things are picking up again. The positive energy that had always driven this fair has come back, especially when you compare it to last year. Confidenceis contagious, so if the dealers are optimistic, so are the collectors, and vice versa.”

Andrew da Conceicao, Director, Michael Stevenson Gallery, Cape Town
“It has been a long while since we have met this many new and serious collectors and curators in such a short time span. We have always felt that Americans connect particularly strongly to our program, and Art Basel Miami Beach more than confirmed this for us. Conversations we’ve had in the past few days will continue well beyond the fair, and we hope that Miami will become a new point of reference for our gallery. We are leaving witha big smile on our face.”

Phil Grauer, Partner, Canada Gallery, New York
“We sold our booth quickly and easily to very good collections. Having an Art Positions booth in the central area has brought a sense of community back to the fair.”

This year’s Art Kabinett was of high quality and showed an interesting mix of carefully curated exhibitions in the booths of the galleries. Twenty-eight galleries – more than ever before – presented an Art Kabinett. The projects in this sector of the show featured awide array of artists, ranging from emerging artists such as Jakub Julian Ziotkowski,Haegue Yang and Latifa Echakhch to historical figures like Marcel Duchamp, George Grosz and Jack Tworkov. Further highlights included projects by Olafur Eliasson, Anish Kapoor, Richard Prince and Wim Delvoye. Group shows included exhibitions titled “Fluxus”, “Ninety Years of Bauhaus” and “Aspects of Pop Art”.

The Art Nova sector presented recent works, often fresh from the studio. Pieces by more than 130 artists from around the globe were on display in Art Nova, including 17 solo shows, featuring artists such as Marc Bijl, Valie Export, Rashid Rana, Dan Attoe, Michael Beutler, Monir Shahroudy Farmanfarmaian, Jose Dávila and Marine Hugonnier.

The Art Positions sector – focused on special projects by young artists and galleries – was located for the first time in the center of the Miami Beach Convention Center and proved to be a favorite among visitors, bringing young energy into the halls.Art Positions featured new works by artists such as Renate Lorenz, Falke Pisano,Ulla von Brandenburg, Agathe Snow, Egill Saebjornsson and Reena Spaulings.

Art Projects, newly curated by Patrick Charpenel of Guadalajara, Mexico, featured 13 projects by internationally renowned artists such as Santiago Sierra, Claire Fontaine, William Pope.L, Rirkrit Tiravanija, and Franz West. The projects were installed in the outdoor public spaces of Miami Beach, within close proximity to the Oceanfront areaand the Miami Beach Convention Center. Art Projects attracted many visitors, especially during the performance by Rirkrit Tiravanija in the W South Beach hotel. Another major highlight was the floating house in the Ocean by Jorge Mayet.

The new Oceanfront environment, created by Los Angeles artist Pae White was a highlight of this year’s Art Basel Miami Beach and proved popular with the public.White’s immersive and interactive cityscape provided a new experience with each visit, transforming at night into a shadowy group of buildings. White’s largest project to date, italso hosted a daily program including the Art Basel Conversations, Art Perform, Art Video and Art Film which were well-visited in the mornings and evenings. Art Video, curated by Creative Time, involved screenings of videos by Tom Sachs and The Neistat Brothers, Marc Horowitz, Jill Magid, Kon Trubkovich, followed by discussions with the artists. Art Perform featured an intensified program of longer per¬formances by rising international artists. This program was again curated by Jens Hoffmann, director of the CCA Wattis Institute, San Francisco. It featured performances by Kelly Nipper, Kris Martin, Simon Fujiwara, Claire Fontaine, and Mario Garcia Torres / Loris Gréaud.

This year’s Art Film event offered an exclusive work-in-progress sneak preview of the feature documentary film “Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child”, preceded by a panel with director Tamra Davis, art dealer Jeffrey Deitch, co-producer David Koh, andhip-hop legend Fab 5 Freddy, moderated by Bob Colacello. Directed by Davis, the film featured a long and never-before-seen interview with Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960-1988), shot shortly before his death. Art Film was curated by Zurich film connaisseur This Brunner.

Many leading art-world figures appeared in the Art Basel Conversations. Located this year for the first time at the Oceanfront, the Art Basel Conversations were especially well-attended by the artworld and the broader public in their new location by the beach. The premiere presented an artist talk with Ai Weiwei, followed by “Museum Directors: Change in Generation”, “Collector Focus: Latin America” and “The Future of the Museum: The Portable Museum”. (Videos of the Art Basel Conversations can be downloaded soon at www.artbaselmiamibeach.com/conversations.)

Art Salon, located this year for the first time in the central area of the Miami Beach Convention Center, evolved well in its new location. Participants included artworld figures such as Pae White, Jens Hoffmann, Fred Tomaselli, Mark Rosenthal, James Rosenquist, Klaus Biesenbach and Josh Baer.

Museum Groups
More than a hundred international museum and collectors groups came from all over the world to attend Art Basel Miami Beach. The delegations included boards of trustees from Museo de Arte de Lima; Brooklyn Museum; Museum of Fine Arts, Boston; MOCA Los Angeles; Guggenheim Museum New York; Museu de Arte Moderna Sao Paulo; Dallas Museum of Art; MCA Denver; Birmingham Museum of Art; Detroit Institute of Arts; Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Washington; Art Institute of Chicago; Walker Art Center, Minneapolis; Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston; Los Angeles County Museum of Art; Palais de Tokyo, Paris; Whitney Museum of American Art, New York; New Museum, New York; and many more.

Museum exhibitions and collections
Following long tradition, the Miami museums organized significant exhibitions. A particular highlight was the opening of the newly built De La Cruz Collection Contemporary Art Space in Miami’s Design District, which attracted a large number of visitors every day during Art Basel Miami Beach. Other shows included exhibitions presenting Guillermo Kuitca at the Miami Art Museum, “Art from the Jumex Collection” at the Bass Museum, William Kentridge at the Norton Museum, George Segal at the Margulies Collection, “The Realms of Reality” at MOCA Miami, and Raymond Pettibon and Sylvie Fleury at World Class Boxing. Once again, Miami’s leading private collections – among them the Margulies Collection, the Rubell Family Collection, CIFO, the De La Cruz Collection, the Mora Collection, the Scholl Collection, and the Dacra Collection – opened their homes and warehouses to guests of the international art show. The daily visits to artist studios in the Greater Miami area were also very popular with visitors.

Partners
Art Basel Miami Beach would like to thank its main sponsor, UBS as well as its Associate Sponsors Cartier, Netjets and AXA Art for collaborating with us on yet another successful show.
Our cooperation with the authorities of the City of Miami Beach, the City of Miami, and Miami-Dade County likewise contributed to making the international art show a cultural event that spread throughout the area and involved the local community. The Host Committee of Art Basel Miami Beach – chaired by Norman and Irma Braman – also ensured that attendees experienced Miami’s legendary hospitality.

Catalog
The premium-quality catalog was virtually sold out during the week. A few hundred copies are still available from D.A.P. in New York (Toll Free: Tel. +1/800 338 2665, Fax +1/212 627 9484) for the USA, or from Hatje Cantz Publishers in Germany: Fax +49/711 4405 220.

Art Basel Miami Beach 2010
Art Basel Miami Beach 2010 takes place December 2 through December 5, 2010, with the private Vernissage on Wednesday, December 1.

Art 41 Basel
Art Basel, the original international art show established in Switzerland in 1970, runs from June 16 through June 20, 2010. It is the world’s most prestigious show of modern and contemporary art, featuring 300 galleries from all continents showing works by over 2,500 artists.

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