Ft Lauderdale Beauty Bash benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure 9/10/11

Ft Lauderdale Beauty Bash benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Unity Now Is A Tomorrow For Everyone
Saturday, September 10, 9:30pm-12:00am
Living Room
Las Olas Riverfront
300 SW 1st Ave, 2nd Level
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
www.livingroomnightclub.com

Official Launch Party of the Ft Lauderdale Beauty Show
Facebook Page.

Ft Lauderdale Beauty Show is just weeks away , come celebrate the launch Party with Jo Blackwell-Preston, Sherri Jessee Pyure Aveda and Artisans Salon as we raise awareness and funds towards the fight against breast cancer, Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

An evening of Beauty, Music & Fashion
Produced by: Edward J. Oberle Lopez
Master of Ceremonies: Jo Blackwell-Preston
Special Guest Hair Artists: Sherri Jessee, Pyure Aveda & Artisan’s Krystal Del Valle

Open Bar and Candy Bar provided by: Harmonie Hpnotiq * Live Louder

Jodran Michael Zuniga Photo Exhibition Featuring Miami’s Femme Fatales 8/11-13/11

Jodran Michael Zuniga Photo Exhibition Featuring Miami’s Femme Fatales
Opening Thursday, August 11, 7-10pm
Art Walk Saturday, August 13
Cafeina

RSVP info@BL-PR.com

Cafeina Hosts Jodran Michael Zuniga Photo Exhibition Featuring Miami’s Femme Fatales To Benefit People For The Ethical Treatment Of Animals

Fashion Splash 7 8/25-27/11

Fashion Splash 7
August 25-27, 7pm
Paradise Thrift Boutique, Tempo Lounge, Holiday Inn Sheridan I95
Thurs Aug 25
Shop, Treats n Trunk Show
Paradise Thrift/Consignment Boutique
6317 Stirling Road
Davie, Fl 33313
7pm-9pm
Free with a toy donation
Shop, refreshments, music, n trunk show

www.fashionsplash.eventbrite.com

Produced by: First Class Productions, Inc
Hosted by: Lulu Orange
Directed by: Tesia Poulos
Coordinated by: Kreativ Myndz
Music by: DJ Bumpcity
Designs by: See Flyer
Featuring: The Miss Runway 2011 Winners and First Class Models
Performances by: Sillowett, Johnny Horne and Cristyles
Volunteers are needed: 800-490-9632 ext701 or 704

Event Schedule:
Thurs Aug 25
Shop, Treats n Trunk Show
Paradise Thrift/Consignment Boutique
6317 Stirling Road
Davie, Fl 33313
7pm-9pm
Free with a toy donation
Shop, refreshments, music, n trunk show

Fri Augu 26 3pm Check-in hotel
Splashion Kick off Party
Fri Aug 26,
Tempo Lounge
2029 Harrison Street
9pm-1am
FREE with 6 new toys or $20
Dressy Casual
18 and Older

Saturday, Aug 27
Holiday Inn
2905 Sheridan Street
Hollywood, Fl

Early Shopping 12pm-6pm at the designer’s and vendor’s lounge
Free to the public for shopping. Receive a raffle ticket for each purchase from our vendors to win fabulous prizes ~1 night stay at the Holiday Inn, FCPi Gift Certificate to Plan Your Next Event, 1 look photo shoot by KLM Photography, 30 minute chair massage by Margie’s Massage. More prizes added.

Sliding doors to the poolside open at 6:30p Show starts at 7pm -9pm
All ages
Poolside attire, swim wear, sun dress, shorts, tank tops
Tickets are $10 with two new toys are $20 at the door

Special room rates are $79 a night under “Fashion Splash” complimentary parking and breakfast.

This event will benefit First Class Productions annual “Toy Drive South Florida” for families in need.
Every Child Deserves to Smile on Christmas morning.
Tickets can be purchased at www.fashionsplash7.eventbrite.com.

Indoor Yard Sale to Benefit Komen 8/6-7/11

Saturday, August 6th from 10am to 6pm
Sunday, August 7th from Noon to 6pm
Brooks Patio Furniture
9775 South Dixie Highway
Miami, Florida 33156
Rain Or Shine… It’s Inside!

Please stop in and visit us for this fundraising event!
Find yard sale treasures, learn more about our team or just have some fun with us.
Make a donation to receive special discount shopping vouchers for a new patio purchase from Brooks Patio Furniture.

For more information contact Info@TeamSOSMiami.com

100% of the proceeds of this Yard Sale will benefit Save Our Sisters, DBT, Inc. (75%) and Susan G. Komen for the Cure (25%) (Miami/ Ft Lauderdale Affilitate)

Cocktail event benefitting the Humane Society of Broward County at China Grill 8/11/11

Sushi Soiree At China Grill Hilton Ft. Lauderdale Marina With Petset
Thursday, August 11th, 7 PM – 10 PM
China Grill Hilton Ft. Lauderdale Marina
1881 SE 17th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
*Valet parking is available for $5

Casual Fundraiser to Benefit Humane Society of Broward County

China Grill Hilton Ft. Lauderdale Marina is hosting a Sushi Soiree on Thursday, August 11th, benefitting the Humane Society of Broward County. Partnering with PetSet, the new generation of young adults in South Florida who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of animals, the famed waterfront restaurant will offer two complimentary cocktails and delicious appetizers including hand-rolled sushi. They’ll also raffle off several exciting prizes including admission for four to their Sake, Maki and Roll Sushi School. Generous sponsors include China Grill, Premier Beverage Company, Ozeki Sake, 360 Vodka, Bud Light, Stephens Distributing Company and Purina ONE.

Donation: Free for Pick of the Litter & Top Dog members
$15 for PetSetters | $25 to join PetSet and attend
*For prepaid reservations call 954.266.6827

PetSet is the new generation of young adults, ages 21-45, in South Florida who are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of animals by raising funds and awareness for the Humane Society of Broward County. The Humane Society of Broward County is a private, non-profit organization funded by donations and is not affiliated with any local or national organization with a similar name. www.PetSet.org

Art Crushes Cancer Silent Auction 8/6/11

Art Crushes Cancer: Silent Auction
Saturday, Aug. 6, 6:30 – 10:30 p.m.
Flagler Arts Space
172 W. Flagler St., Miami, FL 33130
flaglerartsspace.com

Please join us on Saturday, Aug. 6, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. to bid (silently) for your favorite artworks at Flagler Arts Space, 172 W. Flagler St., Miami, FL.

The group show and silent auction is being hosted by local artist Ana Fernandez, and all proceeds will benefit two very worthy organizations:

The Jim Hunter Graduate Scholarship and the American Cancer Society.

For more info about the show and about Flagler Arts Space.

Tobacco Road Ladies Night $1 Drinks Benefit Life Is Art 8/3/11

Tobacco Road Ladies Night $1 Drinks Benefit Life Is Art
Wednesday, August 10th, 6:00pm to 10:00pm
Tobacco Road
626 South Miami Ave
Miami, FL
www.tobacco-road.com
Facebook Evite.

Great news! Tobacco Road is having an awesome Ladies Night AND is raising money for Life Is Art!

6:00pm to 10:00pm, All ladies drink for $1!
Funds raised go to Life Is Art!

*Live Graffiti/Mural Art starting at 7pm!
See local artists tranform Tobacco Road’s back wall into a beautiful piece of artwork. LIVE!

All you ladies come out for a mid-week break and help support a great cause! You can’t beat that! $1 drinks 6pm-12am. Drafts ~ Coppola Wine ~ Martinis

All that, plus it is Burger Beast Wednesdays!  The Burger Beast has created a special burger, but you have to get there early, only 31 are going to be sold!

So, please join us on Wednesday, August 3rd and 10th for a great night for a great cause.

Wing Walk 8/13/11

Wing Walk
Saturday August 13, 2011, 7pm
Wynwood Arts District
www.SocialButterfly.org

During WingWalk, Social Butterfly volunteers wearing butterfly wings will swarm the Wynwood ArtWalk to increase awareness and support local community cultural arts. Social Butterfly Foundation will continue their backpack drive to benefit children in local group foster care homes. Several collection sites will be available throughout the Wynwood Arts District, taking school supplies donations, gift cards or cash. Wings will be available for sale by donation. Those interested in volunteering should contact marta@socialbutterfly.org

Location and Time: Wynwood Arts District (wynwoodartwalk.com), Saturday, August 13th, 7pm – 11pm

Butterflies on Bikes 8/13/11

Butterflies on Bikes
August 13, 2011, 10am
Government Center – Downtown Miami
111 NW 1st Street, Miami, Fl
www.SocialButterfly.org

Butterflies on Bikes is a ride for a cause hosted by Social Butterfly Foundation where bike riders wearing butterfly wings will raise awareness and school supplies to benefit children in local group foster care homes. Meeting point and collection site will be at Lime Fresh Mexican Grill in the Shops at Midtown. Attendees are encouraged to donate backpacks and school supplies. Event is free and open to all levels, first-time bike riders welcome, butterfly wings will be available. Register at www.socialbutterfly.org

Location and Time: Meeting at Government Center Station in Downtown Miami 111 NW 1st St Miami, Fl 33128. Midway point and collection site will be at Lime Fresh Mexican Grill at the Shops at Midtown Miami. Saturday, August 13th. Bike ride begins at 10am, Collection site will be open 10am – noon.

An Artist Tribute Benefiting Lupus Foundation of America 8/27/11

An Artist Tribute Benefiting Lupus Foundation of America
Aug 27, 7:30 PM
Grand Central Miami
697 North Miami Ave.
Miami, FL 33136

Tickets: $25 in advance
$30 at the door
Purchase tickets online.
(part of your ticket purchase will go to The Lupus Foundation)

Fab C. Productions, LLC, Lupus Foundation of America & The City of Miami Fire Department invites you to “An Artist Tribute” Benefiting The Lupus Foundation. Artist’s well known and locally will showcase unique art and photography dedicated to Lupus survivors at the new, and what has become one of the most lavish venue’s in Miami, Grand Central.

Lupus Foundation of America, Inc. is the foremost national nonprofit health organization dedicated to finding the causes of and cure for lupus; a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body (skin, joints, and/or organs inside the body). Their research estimates that at least 1.5 million Americans have lupus. It is believed that 5 million people throughout the world have a form of lupus. Many celebrities such as Lady Gaga and Toni Braxton are affected with this disease.

Graced with unequivocal elegance and class, this formal event will have an exotic vibe. Throughout the entire venue, inside and out, will have different painting’s and photography displayed by dedicated artists who are fully supporting the awareness. Deco One Interior Group, well known for designing the new Forge in South Beach, will also display their artful decor designs. Photos of Lupus survivor’s taken by photographer’s will also be displayed. Special art work of Romero Britto will also be the center of attention and will be included in the silent auction.

Edgy performance vignettes will heat up the evening including a fashion showcase featuring celebrity designer, Nicole Miller strutting her new collection from the Miami Beach store location. A few of the models who also are suffering from the disease will be involved. With honor, those survivors will be escorted by uniformed firefighters. South Florida Firefighters will also be selling their calendars with proceeds going to the foundation. For your pleasure, couture dresses artistically designed by JHouse will be uniquely displayed & worn by model’s posed around the venue.

View a video presentation for those looking to have more natural resources for the body. Zija is an international company that develop natural, earth-friendly products using the miracle plant Moringa. Testomonial’s of Lupus survivor will share their exprience.

Complimentary appetizer’s will be served by Chef Quenia Jean-Charles, of MixStyles Catering, who is best known for her unique food presentations when serving in the VIP rooms at The American Airlines Arena during the heat games. The chef will personally greet guests with a menu for their pleasure of what is served for the night. Also enjoy special desserts served by Lupus Survivor, Alexis Thomas of Kathy’s Catering.

Special invited guests will be involved in speaking on behalf of Lupus Foundation and the affects of Lupus.

Susan G Komen Pink Is Hot Fundraiser 8/18/11

Susan G Komen Pink Is Hot Fundraiser 8/18/11
August 18, 5:30-8:30pm
Cafeina Restaurant
297 NW 23rd Street
Miami, Fl 33127
www.komenmiaftl.org

Admission: $20

Join Susan G Komen for the Cure® as We continue to turn up the heat on finding a cure for breast cancer with our second event of the summer…

Cafeina Specials for the Evening
2 for 1 Cocktails
$5 Tapas

Please RSVP by August 12 to Sherri@komenmiaftl.org

To prepay for the event please mail checks to
Susan G Komen for the Cure ®
12347 SW 132nd Ct., Miami, FL 33186

The Sincerity Project Opening Reception 8/5/11

The Sincerity Project Opening Reception
Friday August 5th, 2011 – 7:00 – 9:00pm
Studio 18
1101 Poinciana Drive
Pembroke Pines, Fl

Immitation Is The Sincerest Form Of Flattery
August 5th – September 30th

The Sincerity Project brings together more than forty established and mid career artists who have made their original work available “for interpretation” to eight local special needs organizations. Artists include New Times Best Visual Artist for 2011 and 2010, three Cultural Consortium Fellowship Winners, and two artists currently showing in the Boca Raton All Florida Juried Competition and Exhibition, along with several artists that have exhibited at Art Basel Miami.

The exhibition will showcase both the original and the interpreted works displayed side by side. Skilled artists and the special needs novice ask…How do you see art? To determine your response plan to attend the First Friday opening of The Sincerity Project, a free event at Studio 18 in the Pines.

Athletic clothing Line BADL (Battle) presents the Ball All Day Long 3 Point Shootout 7/30/11

Athletic clothing Line BADL (Battle) presents the “Ball All Day Long 3 Point Shootout”
Saturday July 30th, Noon
Overtown Youth Center
450 N.W. Street
Miami, Fl. 33136
www.ballalldaylong.com/events

For the first time in Miami, athletic clothing line BADL (Battle) is hosting “The Ball All Day Long 3 Point Shootout”.

The charitable basketball tournament is going to raise funds for the Overtown Youth Center a program of Alonzo Mourning Charities in addition to collecting shoes for the children in Ebeye. Along with supporting these important causes, the tournament was designed to bring the best 3 point shooters together from different backgrounds, ages, cities, genders and athletic abilities to have a good time in a competitive environment.

The cost to play is only $80 per team consisting of two players. There will be two winners, $1000 cash prize will go to the 1st place team in the winner’s bracket and $500 cash awarded to the 1st place team in the loser’s bracket. This double elimination 3 point shooting tournament can only accommodate the first 32 teams, so it’s important to sign up early. Each team is guaranteed 3 games and can register online at www.ballalldaylong.com/events. Payment will also be accepted the day of the event.

For more information about this event or to learn about the sponsorship opportunities contact Angie at angelacbetancourt@gmail.com

Admission is free to the public!

Photographs by Anthony Jordon of Miami Magazine’s To Live and Dine in Miami on 7/27/11

Photographs taken by Anthony Jordon of the Miami Magazine’s To Live and Dine in Miami at The Moore Building on Wednesday, July 27, 2011.  What an awesome evening delicious food and great drinks, best way to spend Wednesday evening.   The restaurants in attendance were:  1500° at Eden Roc, Azul, Crumb on Parchment, De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean, The Forge Restaurant and Wine Bar, Palme d ‘Or and Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crab House.

Photographs taken by Anthony Jordon to see more of his work go to his flickr page or his facebook page.

Photographs of Miami Magazine’s To Live and Dine in Miami at The Moore Building on 7/27/11

Miami Magazine’s To Live and Dine in Miami at The Moore Building on Wednesday, July 27, 2011.  What an awesome evening delicious food and great drinks, best way to spend Wednesday evening.   The restaurants in attendance were:  1500° at Eden Roc, Azul, Crumb on Parchment, De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean, The Forge Restaurant and Wine Bar, Palme d ‘Or and Truluck’s Seafood, Steak and Crab House.

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Relay For Life of Surf-Bal-Bay Celebration to Fight Cancer 8/13/11

Relay For Life of Surf-Bal-Bay Celebration to Fight Cancer
Saturday, August 13th, starting at 3:00pm
Ruth K. Broad
1155 93rd Street
Bay Harbor Islands, FL

American Cancer Society Invites The Communities Of Bay Harbor To Celebrate A World With More Bithdays

The American Cancer Society invites the Bay Harbor Community to celebrate and learn more about Relay For Life, an overnight community celebration where individuals and teams camp out, barbecue, dance, and take turns walking or running around a track “relay” style to raise funds to fight cancer. At nightfall, participants will light hundreds of luminary candles around the track in a moving ceremony honor cancer survivors as well as remembering those lost to the disease. It is an opportunity to help the American Cancer Society create a world with less cancer and more birthdays by helping people stay well, get well, find cures and fight back.

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life represents hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day, cancer will be eliminated.

The American Cancer Society encourages anyone wishing to honor cancer survivors and caregivers, or pay tribute to those who have lost their battle with cancer to attend the Relay For Life kick-off to find out more about the Relay for Life event in their community.

HOW: To join a Relay For Life in your community, call 754.235.6584 email Jennifer.Lopez@cancer.org or visit www.relayforlife.org/sbbFL

Maker’s Mark Tasting at Morton’s The Steakhouse Miami Brickell 8/2/11

Tuesday, August 2nd, 6-7:30 pm
Morton’s The Steakhouse
1200 Brickell Avenue
Miami, FL

RSVP: http://mortonsmmamakers.eventbrite.com

Join Morton’s for an evening with Maker’s Mark and take a fascinating journey from the barrel to the bottle. Come relax, enjoy and experience Maker’s 46 paired with Morton’s signature hors d’oeuvres.

Cost: $45 per guest
(100% of proceeds from silent auction will benefit Birdies for the Brave: birdiesforthebrave.com)

Ann Taylor and Gene Spotlight Cocktail Reception Thursday 7/28/11

This Thursday, July 28, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Ann Taylor, Dadeland Mall
7415 SW 88th Street
Miami FL 33156
(Located in Section G, near Macy’s)
RSVP: anntaylor@genespotlight.org

You’re Invited to Join Us This Thursday in
Celebration of the New Ann Taylor Benefiting Gene Spotlight!
Chic. Elegant. Luxurious.

Ann Taylor & Gene Spotlight, Allison Weiss Brady, Co-Founder
with Amy Rosenberg, Brooke Brown, Erin Cohen, Erin Newberg and Jennifer Diliz

Invite you for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and music to celebrate the NEW ANN TAYLOR

Photographs by Anthony Jordon of Miami’s 115th Birthday Celebration in Brickell on 7/24/11

Photographs taken by Anthony Jordon of the Miami’s 115 Birthday celebration in Brickell on Sunday, July 24, 2011.  Miami’s birthday celebration was presented by DowntownMiami.com and City of Miami to benefit Bike Miami Days.  Had such a great time and loved the cupcake tower by LA Sweets.

We enjoy a progressive tastings from these participating Brickell Area Restaurant:
Noon-1pm: Baru Urbano, Palau, P.F. Changs, Piola, Rosa Mexicano
1pm-2pm: Dolores Lolita, Gelato Nostro, P.F. Changs, Piola, Rosa Mexicano, SuViche
2pm-3pm: Fado Irish Pub, P.F. Changs, Piola, Red Bar Gallery, Rosa Mexicano
3pm-4pm: Rice House of Kabob, The Oceannaire Seafood Room, Piola, Rosa Mexicano
4pm-5pm: Cavas, Piola, Rosa Mexicano
5pm-6pm: El Vato, Blue Martini, Piola, Rosa Mexicano, Sushi Maki
6pm-7pm: LA Sweets, Piola
7pm-8pm: Piola, Zen Sushi Lounge

Photographs taken by Anthony Jordon to see more of his work go to his flickr page or his facebook page.

Make-A-Wish Dream Date Auction 7/29/11

Make-A-Wish Dream Date Auction
Friday, Jul. 29, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Opium Nightclub/ Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
5729 Seminole Way
Hollywood, FL 33314
Buy Tickets Here.

13th Annual Bachelor & Bachelorette Dream Date Auction
The Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Florida presents the 13th Annual Bachelor & Bachelorette Dream Date Auction hosted by E! Celebrity Correspondent and Y-100’s own Michael Yo and Ninalicia from The Yo Show! This auction will feature South Florida’s most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes with an anticipated audience of more than 800 people. Last year’s event was sold out and raised enough money to grant the wishes of 12 very special children in our community.

Caring About the Strays’ Wine Party 7/30/11

Saturday, July 30th from 5 to 8pm
Flemings
Coral Gables

With your $10 donation to our non-profit animal rescue group get one complimentary cocktail and assorted appetizers.

Enjoy fabulous and affordable Happy Hour prices!
Exciting raffle!
Furotiffy’s eco-friendly bags!
Tell all your friends!
Caring About the Strays

Please RSVP for estimated count: events@caringaboutthestrays.org

Pridelines Youth Services Sixth Annual Fundraising Gala Masquerade 8/27/11

Pridelines Youth Services Sixth Annual Fundraising Gala Masquerade
Saturday, August 27, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Jungle Island’s Treetop Ballroom
1111 Parrot Jungle Trail
Miami, FL 33132

Tickets And Information:
$100 per person or $1,200 for a table of 10.
Tickets: www.pridelines.org

Get ready for an evening of mystery and intrigue as Pridelines Youth Services presents its sixth annual fundraising gala, “Masquerade.” This year’s gala will feature a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner, dancing and live entertainment by Corey Michaels. The gala also honors two community leaders for their commitment to LGBTQ youth in South Florida — Robert Loupo, co-founder of the Gay Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and executive director of Safe Schools South Florida; and Temple Israel for supporting LGBTQ youth by providing the space for Pridelines drop-in center for over 10 years.

Proceeds benefit Pridelines Youth Services whose mission is to educate and empower South Florida’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered and questioning (LGBTQ) youth and their straight allies through programming, counseling, support and referral services from a safe and diverse environment.

High Heels and Handshakes celebrated their launch event with huge turnout By Betty Alvarez

On July 20th High Heels and Handshakes threw their Official Kick-off Party for at the newly renovated roof top pool lounge of the Westin Colonnade in Coral Gables. Located on the 10th floor, it overlooks beautiful Miracle Mile.

Photographers, press, DJ Papi Love from Sony Pictures, Veev Acai Spirits, Partida Tequila, Hpnotiq Harmonie, Choco Noir Wine, Santos Sangria, Mini-Makeovers by Isabel Amezaga, Stella & Dot, Morton’s the Steakhouse, business women and many more headlined this successful event! With over 300 RSVPs, attendees made business contacts, had a great time, and most importantly made a difference by supporting Women for Women International in which a portion of the proceeds went to. Eventhough this event was geared to the professional businesswoman, Men were also welcome.

It was a fun & beneficial time for everyone!

Donations of used business shoes, jewelry and handbags were welcomed to be donated to Dress for Success Miami. Men also brought their used business clothes and shoes to be donated to Suited for Success.

This is an organization that is very near and dear to my heart. A BIG THANK YOU to all of the sponsors to make this event happen, all the vendors that sold their products and services at the event and most importantly to everyone that attended this event. With your support, you helped change a woman’s life.

However, no words can explain the hard work and dedication that Bonnie Kilpatrick and Christina Ward has placed in this wonderful cause.

Stay tuned to the next High Heels and Handshakes event on Saturday, August 20th.

High Heels & Handshakes is an organization that merges women’s networking and philanthropy together with a twist of fun.

Their monthly happy hour networking events serve to inspire camaraderie among professional women while donating a portion of the proceeds to partnership programs that support self-sufficiency amongst women in Miami, Florida, Afghanistan, Bosnia, Congo, Kosovo, Iraq, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Sudan.

The goal is to make a difference in our local communities and abroad through organizations that provide opportunities for women to pursure their professional dreams.

To learn more about High Heels and Handshakes please visit www.highheelsandhandshakes.com. Also follow them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/highheelsandhandshakes.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

Zo’s Summer Groove Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Benefit Dinner and Gala Night of Entertainment 7/23/11

Zo’s Summer Groove Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Benefit Dinner and Gala Night of Entertainment
Saturday, July 23
8.30 p.m. Concert Performances
Hard Rock Live

Performances by Cee Lo Green, 14 time Grammy-award winner Alicia Keys, Mosaic, Black Violin and comedian Carlos Mencia.
Special guests include Carrie Meek, Alonzo and Tracy Mourning and many more to come
The doors to the A-list performances post-Gala dinner will be opened to the public for the first time ever, offering general admission tickets for 3,000 additional guests to join in seats above the gala tables.
Tickets:
Concert Performances- $45 Upper Level; $65 Lower Level
For general admission concert tickets: visit http://www.hardrocklivehollywoodfl.com/events.php

Zo’s Summer Groove Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Comedy Show

Zo’s Summer Groove Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Comedy Show 7/22/11
Friday, July 22, 7 p.m.
Hard Rock Live

Headlined by D.L. Hughley with performances by Nema Willians, Capone, Roz G, Marvin Dixon and Smokey Suarez
Special guests include/performances by D.J. Irie and Doug E. Fresh
Tickets:
$45 – Upper Deck (300 Level)
$65 – Lower Bowl (200 Level)
$100 – Floor Seats
For show tickets visit http://www.hardrocklivehollywoodfl.com/events.php

Yappy Hour Berries in tthe Grove 7/24/11

7/24/2011, 3:00 pm – 7 :00 PM
Berries in the Grove
EVENT AT:
2884 SW 27th Avenue
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
coconutgrovedogrescue.org

Come join us for “Yappy Hour” at Berries in the Grove on Sunday July 24th from 3 PM – 7 PM and help us support all those abandoned dogs in Coconut Grove, FL. Please check out the attached flyer for more details.

Thank you for your support and please be sure to visit our website to see our current dogs available for adoption.

An Artist Tribute 8/27/11

August 27, 6 pm
Grand Central
697 North Miami Avenue
Miami, FL 33136-4100

Fab C. Productions, LLC, The City of Miami Fire Department & The Lupus Foundation of Florida invites you to become apart of “An Artist’s Tribute” Benefiting The Lupus Foundation. Artist’s & photographer well known and locally such as yourself will showcase unique art and photography dedicated to Lupus survivors at one of the most lavish and all new venue in the Miami Design District, Grand Central. The Lupus Foundation of America, Inc. is the foremost national nonprofit health organization dedicated to finding the causes of and cure for lupus and providing support, services and hope to all people affected by lupus.

This event is scheduled for August 27, 2011. Appetizer’s will also be served by Lupus survivor caterers. Special celebrity invited guests will be involved speaking on behalf of Lupus and the affects of Lupus.

Graced with unequivocal elegance and class, this formal event will have an exotic vibe. Through the entire venue will have different art and photography displayed by dedicated artists such as yourselves who will be fully supporting the awareness. Edgy performance vignettes will heat up the evening as well with fashion showcase by the famous, Nicole Miller.

As you may be aware, The Lupus Foundation has provided aid worldwide. Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body (skin, joints, and/or organs inside the body). Their research estimates that at least 1.5 million Americans have lupus. It is believed that 5 million people throughout the world have a form of lupus. Many celebrities such as Lady Gaga and Tony Braxton are affected with this awful disease. In this role, they have helped spread awareness for the organization, performed at Lupus Foundation events, speaks on behalf of the organization and has participated on an international missions.

All participants will be apart of ALL marketing and media placing logos and small info. Press and media will be covering the event.

Guidelines to participate:
Artist’s/Photographer’s will be able to display up to 3 photographs. 2 can be of the artist’s best work, BUT 1 has to be dedicated to Lupus Survivors. Please inquire of photographing or painting a Lupus Survivor. Fab C. Productions will provide full coordination of the shoot if needed. A small fee of $50 will secure your space in the event.

Interested Artist and Photographers please send an email to rasheida.smith@gmail.com

Miami’s Brew It Up 7/30/11

Saturday, July 30thm 7:30-10:30PM.
Miami Museum of Science
More Info.

Miami’s Brew It Up is a beer tasting event that will benefit Casa Amor, a Non-profit Organization dedicated to sheltering, feeding and educating, orphaned children all over the world.

Our goal is to build villages that will shelter orphaned children all over the world. These places will become the homes where each child will find the love, spiritual guidance, appropriate medical attention and education that will help them obtain a brighter and better future.

Come and savor the genius craftsmanship of over 15 beers that will go perfect with the combination of local restaurant flavors. An Open Bar will also be provided by Republic National Distributing Companies.

We invite you to Brew It Up for a great cause.

Miamicrawls.com Brickell Bar Crawl 7/23/11

7/23/2011, 3-10pm
Brickell Bars
Starting at 1200 Brickell Ave., Miami, 33131
and ending at 600 S. Miami Ave., Miami, 33131
www.miamicrawls.com

Saturday July 23, 2011, from 3-10pm, Miami Crawls presents the Brickell Bar Crawl to benefit Community Partnership for Homeless (CPH). The Brickell Bar Crawl community outreach event will bring together Brickell residents and young professionals to enjoy beer, wine, spirits and snacks at local restaurants and bars.

Enjoy an afternoon with friends while giving back to adult and children residents at Community Partnership for Homeless. A portion of the proceeds will benefit CPH.

Crawl With Us!
Registration includes a wristband for the following specials!
A portion of our proceeds, and a portion of the bars proceeds will benefit CPH!

Gordon Biersch: 3-5pm
First Beer Free! $3 Lager Specials, $2 off wine, $3 garlic fries, $5 chicken tender platter

El Vato Tequila & Taco Bar: 4:30-6pm
$5 Margaritas, Free chips/salsa

B&B Joint: 5:30-7pm
First Beer Free (limited quantity, sponsored by Shooger!),
$3 Miller & Coors Lite, $5 Well Drinks

Fado Irish Pub: 6:30-8pm
$4 Pints of Heineken

Red Bar Gallery: 7:30-9pm
$3 PBR, 5/$12 Budweiser Buckets, 5/$15 Corona Buckets,
$8 Moonshine

Tobacco Road: 8:30-10pm
Domestic Beer $3.50
Corona $4.00
Import Beer $4.25
$5.25 Well Drinks

Photographs of United Hearts of America Fundraiser at The Betsy Hotel on 7/14/11

United Hearts of America Fundraiser at The Betsy Hotel on Thursday, July 14, 2011.   What a great cause and amazing event.

Education begins in the heart . The goal of this Community Heart Project is to shift the focus of our political leaders back to education. Under the direction of neo-pop artist Ed King, thousands of participants will come together in an ambitious artistic undertaking to create a series of American flags — solely comprised of hearts. Citizen artists will be given an opportunity to paint a heart and record their own personalized message on what education means to them.

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High Heels and Handshakes 7/20/11

July 20th from 6:30-8:30pm
Westin Coral Gables
180 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134

High Heels and Handshakes, a monthly networking event created by Christina Ward from Morton’s the Steakhouse and Bonnie Kilpatrick from Fleming’s steakhouse will be holding their third networker for business women on July 20 at the pool deck of the Westin Hotel in Coral Gables. This event benefitted Women for Women.org, a non-profit organization helping women survivors of war rebuild their lives. To learn more about High Heels and Handshakes please email highheelsandhandshakes@yahoo.com or visit their facebook page www.facebook.com/highheelsandhandshakes

COST: $20

RSVP: To Christina Ward: christina_ward@mortons.com

Morton’s will be providing food. *

Football Legends of University of Miami and Florida State Celebrate Its 1st Annual Charity Weekend 8/5-8/11

Football Legends of University of Miami and Florida State Celebrate Its 1st Annual Charity Weekend
August 5th -8th, 2011, all day
NFL YET Center,
7090 NW 22nd Ave
Miami, FL 33147
www.legendsalumniclassic.com

Rivalry. It aims to maintain tradition, while breeding giants and forming legends in history. Pride is his primary companion and together, enduring fame is their greatest achievement. Come out to experience and enjoy this long-standing competition between one of the nation’s most acclaimed football rivalries: The University of Miami Hurricanes versus Florida State University Seminoles, in the First Annual Legends Alumni Classic. The Legends Alumni Classic Charity Weekend is an exciting, fun-filled and family friendly event, featuring alumni football players from both universities on August 5th -8th,2011.

Legends Alumni Classic was created to allow former collegiate alumni athletes an opportunity to compete in friendly competition against their ultimate collegiate rival, this four-day long charity weekend celebrates a timeless battle which strives to raise money to support a deserving charity in the community. In its first year, the organization has chosen the Boys and Girls Club as the beneficiary of the charity weekend.

The two participating organizations of the charity weekend, Noles 4 Life and Canes 4 Life, include alumni players from The University of Miami and Florida State; whose main objective is to unite alumni football players of all eras in an effort to give back to the community which cheered for them passionately on the field every Saturday. “It’s a great way to see old friends, but more importantly an outlet to service our community,” says Ken Alexander, director of Noles 4 Life. Former alumni that have been invited to attend this event include Antonio Cromartie, Alonzo Highsmith, Warrick Dunn, Edgerrin James, Peter Warrick, Michael Rump, Anquan Boldin, Santana Moss, Charlie Ward, Gerald Daphnis, Leon Searcy, Reggie Johnson, Ryan McNeil and many more…

Cheer your team on, meet your favorite alumni football player and greet old friends, while supporting this worthy cause. Your attendance in this weekend of events will be beneficial to the performance of the alumni football players when they meet on the field to try and score charitable funds off the field.

Event Timeline:
Saturday, August 6th, 2011 10am-3pm – Youth Football & Cheerleader Clinic and Community Health Fair @ NFL YET Center

Sunday, August 7th, 2011 3pm-8pm – The Legends Alumni Classic Flag Football Game @ North Miami Athletic Stadium

Monday, August 8th, 2011 7:30am-until – Legends Alumni Charity Golf Tournament @ Normandy Shores

Sponsors Include: Tropical Chevrolet,Powerade, ZICO Beverage, Fired Up Sports, 5 Hour Energy, Canes4Life, Noles 4 Life, Gold Coast Beverages, Pollo Tropical, Miami Seminoles, NFL YET Center and Department of Health.

Spin-A-Thon Presented By Actor’s Playhouse On Miracle Mile 7/16/11

Saturday July 16, From 8am to 11am!
Gables Fitness
112 Valencia Ave
Coral Gables, FL
More Info.

Gables Fitness In collaboration with the Actor’s Playhouse at The Miracle Theatre and Their World Premiere Musical See Jane Run! Are Hosting See Jane Spin A Thon

All Proceeds Go To:
The Children’s Trust Miami Heart Gallery Is A traveling, museum-quality exhibit featuring portraits of children in Miami-Dade’s foster care system who are available for adoption. See www.miamiheartgallery.org for more information.

Gables Fitness Is Hosting a Spin A Thon From 8am to 11am on Saturday July 16th. Participants will be riding for 50 minutes. You will have a choice to come in at 8am, 9am or 10am. Your donation of $20.00 will be going to The Children’s Trust Miami Heart Gallery. Food, Drinks and Special Gifts Will Be Provided.

Planet Fashion TV Miami Swimwear Fashion Show 7/15/11

Friday, July 15 · 7:00pm – 10:00pm
The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach
Featuring Swimwear By: Gabbita, Aqua Di Lara, and Beach Junkie.

High fashion, great music, and cocktails under the evening summer sky at the most prestigious venue in Miami.

Complimentary Cocktails 7-8pm
$8 Valet Parking
Lite Bites
Sangria Specials

RSVP email events@planetfashiontv.com

People In Crisis United will benefit from this show. We are asking everyone to bring a new, unwrapped toy for a child. We will also have samples of toys for purchase for those who forget to bring an item or wish to contribute a monetary donation. People In Crisis United does have 501(c)3 status and will be able to write receipts and maintain your record of donation in our books.

PLANET FASHION TV TO HOST EXCLUSIVE EVENT DURING Miami Swimwear Fashion Week! Miami Beach, Florida, USA (July 15th, 2011)

Planet Fashion TV Produced by Celia Evans, will be hosting this exclusive event from 7pm to 10pm on Friday July 15th, 2011 at the prestigious Ritz Carlton South Beach Dilido Club, for a night of fashion, cocktails, and fun.

The Planet Fashion TV event at the 64rd Cannes Film Festival was a tremendous success in Cannes, France this past May with celebrity attendance & over 100 media outlets covering, including BBC, RTL, CNBC, and MTV. Sponsors included Lamborghini, Ezanga, Donna B NYC Couture, Zakia’s Morocco, ‘Love the Key to Life’ Perfumery, & Maison Vendome Champagne.

The Planet Fashion TV, Miami Swimwear Event, will feature couture swimwear lines Gabbita, Flora Bella, and Aqua Di Lara. Kim’s Good Karma, an organization by Kim Bacardi will be accepting toys on behalf of PICU a charity that provides toys to terminally ill children. A complimentary cocktail reception from 7 to 8pm will be provided by Potions in Motions, serving signature cocktails from SX Tequila, Perfect 1864 Ultra-Premium Vodka, Rums of Puerto Rico and Skinny Senorita.

About PlanetFashionTV: Planet Fashion TV is an online news/video portal and series, beautifully shot in HD & can be seen in 8 countries .The show targets an international & culturally astute demographic. It’s one of the few western shows that currently airs in China. PFTV is known for its features on new brands, and for the hottest runways shows from around the world including Gucci, Versace, Giorgio Armani, Dior, Badgley Mischka & Mathew Williamson. This year PFTV will be filming the swimwear fashion week event. For more on PlanetFashionTV please visit: www.planetfashiontv.com

Photographs of the Sails and Sounds Soiree at a Private Mansion on 7/9/11

Sails and Sounds Soiree at a Private Mansion on Saturday, July 9, 2011.  I had such a great time!!!!!  The house was amazing and what a beautiful crowd.  This was a fundraiser benefiting The Boys & Girls Club of Broward County.

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Las Vegas on Las Olas Gala and Casino Night 11/5/11

“Las Vegas on Las Olas Gala and Casino Night”
November 5, 2011, 6:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Las Olas River House
333 Las Olas Way
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301

www.childrensdiagnostic.org

The Las Olas River House Social Committee is hosting the event to benefit the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center (CDTC).

Starting at 6 p.m., guests will enjoy an evening of cocktails, dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions and casino games, which will include Blackjack, Craps, Texas Hold’em, Roulette and Slot Machines while raising money for an important cause. Guests will also enjoy sumptuous International Food Stations from more than 15 top restaurants in Broward County. A 10-piece band, “The Band” from Xanadau Group will be the highlight of entertainment for the evening.

Tickets are $125 per person and each ticket holder will receive $25 in poker chips.
For more information on the “Las Vegas on Las Olas Gala and Casino Night” or to purchase tickets visit www.childrensdiagnostic.org. For sponsorship information, please contact Cheryl Insalaco at cheryl21274@yahoo.com or call 954-527-0655 or Kaye Jacobs at kjacobs4006@aol.com or call 954-462-4222.

Twilight Notes Presents Skyline Three Year Anniversary Benefit for the American Cancer Society 7/22/11

Twilight Notes Presents Skyline
Friday, July 22nd, 7-11:30pm
Sky Lounge at Nu River Landing
511 SE 5th Ave
Fort Lauderdale, FL

Cost: 25 Dollars
Includes Open Bar, Free Gourmet Appetizers, and Dj Showcase

Twilight Notes Three Year Anniversary Event
A Benefit for the American Cancer Society
In Memory of our Dear Friend Steven Shailer
We are going sky high.

Twilight Notes is proud to present Skyline, our official three year anniversary event. We are returning once again to the beautiful Sky Lounge, twenty-five stories above downtown Fort Lauderdale to bring you another unforgettable night.

Come drink, dance, socialize, enjoy the view, and watch the sunset with us as we turn day into night, Twilight Notes Dj’s providing the soundtrack with their sophisticated, stylish blend of Jazz, House, Down-tempo, Soul, and Hip Hop.

Come inside, grab a drink and listen to Twilight Notes vinyl sessions with Mikey Ramirez, Kent Lawlor and Eric Pamphile. Walk outside, hang poolside and dance the under the stars night to Twilight Notes House sessions featuring the first gig of Dj/Production Duo Tryst (Adam Foster and Alyson Calagna) and Brendan “Shade” Byrne.

All proceeds will go directly to benefit the American Cancer Society. The cost of the event will include an open bar, free gourmet appetizers, an auction featuring art and gifts from local restaurants and businesses, and a live Dj showcase.

Inside Vinyl Soul Sessions:
Kent Lawlor
Eric Pamphile

Poolside House Sessions:
Tryst (Adam Foster & Alyson Calagna)
Brendan “Shade” Byrne

Event Photography by Kara Lynn
Hosted By Samantha Dibianchi, Allison Seriani and Robert Negron

Special Thanks to our Sponsors:
-Prime Entertainment
-Freedom Art
-Kara Lynn Photography
-Vibe Las Olas
-Radio-Active Records
-Bogle Wines
-Cafe Verdi
-SKYY

Official Afterparty will be at Vibe Las Olas with a performance by international DMC finalist, the legendary Dj Immortal.

Zo’s Summer Groove Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Golf Classic 7/22/11

Friday, July 22
Fairmont Turnberry Isle

7:30 a.m. [Registration]
8 a.m. [Pre-event breakfast reception]
9 a.m. [Shotgun]
2 p.m. [Post-event awards reception]

Tickets: Foursome for $4,000 and Single for $1,000, with celebrity teams available $6,000
For tickets or more information, visit www.zsg.com.

Celebrating 15 years of Zo’s Summer Groove with a new, more prestigious location, Alonzo Mourning brings Zo’s Summer Groove Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Golf Classic to Fairmont Turnberry Isle for the first time. Presented by Hublot Watches and Coca-Cola, the Golf Classic will open doors to the legendary 300-acre retreat and distinguished membership club where Zo and famous athletes and celebrities regularly golf. Participants will get a once-in-a-life-time opportunity to play alongside the former basketball player and star friends. This year’s celebrity participants include Bruce Smith, Jason Taylor, Eric Spoelstra, Clyde Drexler, Kenny Lofton, Gerald Henderson, Steve Smith and Roland Martin.

Hublot Watches, the official timekeeper of the Miami Heat, will also present a special prize for the winner of a $100 “hole in one” shot to win a watch valued at over $20,000. A huge supporter of Alonzo Mourning Charities, having recently donated to the Sponsor-A-Student program, Hublot will also have the students they sponsor from Overtown Youth Center participate in the Golf Classic.

Females That Grind Charity Luncheon and Tafari Award 8/20/11

Saturday August 20, 12:00pm to 5:00pm
STK MIAMI
2377 Collins Avenue
Gansevoort Hotel
Miami Beach, FL 33139-1609
More Info/Registration

Save the Date for Saturday, August 20, 2011 at 12PM for the Females That Grind Charity Luncheon and Tafari Award Presentation at STK MIAMI in the Gansevoort Hotel in South Beach. Your presence and support will help us to raise funds to donate to Starlent, a 50(1)C3 Non Profit Organization that provides Performance Arts Education to young girls and boys.

Starlent, Inc. is a 501(C)3 not-for-profit organization that discovers future stars and develops their natural talent. Thier goal is to educate young gifted artists to succeed in the arts and in life. Lead by mentors and master instructors who are leaders in the industry, Starlent specializes in training and connecting dancers, actors and singers.

***A portion of the proceeds from Ticket Sales, and Cash Sponsorship will be donated to Starlent to provide performance arts education for young girls.

Marshall Faulk Hall of Fame VIP Event Celebration 8/10/11

Marshall Faulk Hall of Fame VIP Event Celebration
Aug. 10th from 6:30pm-9:30pm
The Playwright Irish Pub
The Village of Gulfstream Park
Tickets: $150 per person

A VIP evening with special guest Marshall Faulk, Pro Football Hall of Famer and NFL Network Analyst
Guests will enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a live auction of limited-edition sports memorabilia. Proceeds to benefit the Marshall Faulk Foundation.

Click here to purchase tickets ($150 per person)
For sponsorship inquiries or for more information please contact Christine Hayes by Friday, August 5th at Christine@ZuckerPR.com.

United Hearts of America Night at The Betsy 7/14/11

United Hearts of America Night at The Betsy
Thursday Jul 14, 2011 6:30 PM-9:00pm
The Betsy Hotel
1440 Ocean Drive
Miami Beach, FL , FL 33139
Buy Tickets.
Prices: $65 per person, $45 for Educators*(educators must provide ID at check-in)

United Hearts of America welcomes you to a night at The Betsy Hotel. Specialty Hors D’oeurves and libations provided by BLT Steak. Events will include: “Are Your Smarter Than Your Kid” Trivia Night, hosted by South Beach Comedian Ralphy “Love”, the unveiling of the United Hearts of America Message to President Obama, and a Luxury Raffle. Following the Fundraiser The Betsy Hotel welcomes you to join them in their first Thursday Live Music Night celebrating Bastille Day! For more information on United Hearts of America please visit www.unitedheartsflag.com.

The Betsy –South Beach welcomes United Hearts of America, a multimedia community arts project, on July 14, 2011 from 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. for a Night of Education. Among the events taking place that evening are the unveiling of the United Hearts of America Message to President Obama; the “Are you Smarter Than Your Kids” Trivia contest hosted by Miami comedian Ralphy Love, a Luxury Raffle, and a gourmet cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres from the Betsy’s acclaimed restaurant, BLT Steak. Tickets, priced at $65, are available online through Brown Paper Tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/185304 and include entry in the Luxury Raffle and access to The Betsy Lobby lounge and B Bar for the evening.

United Hearts of America is under the direction of Neo-Pop Artist Ed King. The project seeks to raise $10,000 to deliver flags that have been painted by the community, as well as recorded messages in support of education initiatives to Washington, D.C. during Education Week in November 2011. Over 2,000 citizens, celebrities, and elected officials including Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado, Miami Dade Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho, and FIU football coach Mario Cristobal, have participated in painting flags filled with Hearts, since the project’s inception in April 2011.

Following the fundraiser, guests are invited to stay on at The Betsy Hotel for Live Music Thursdays in the hotel’s lively Lobby Bar. In celebration of Bastille Day, BLT Steak will be offering specially priced menu items honoring the French.

NEW ADDRESS Megayacht Charity Party 7/9/11

Saturday, July 9, 7pm-11pm
THE SAILS AND SOUNDS SOIREE EVENT HAS BEEN MOVED TO
STEVE SAVOR’S PRIVATE MANSION OFF OF LAS OLAS BLVD.
600 ISLE OF PALM,
FORT LAUDERDALE 33301.
www.sailsandsoundssoiree.com

Enjoy a decadent “Blue Night” under the stars aboard Allure Shadow megayacht for an evening filled with cool international DJ’s while consuming luscious liquid libations and feasting on fabulous food.
Add in fashion, art and entertainment for a stylish time to partake in all while benefiting a good cause for the Boys & Girls Club of Broward County

Hosted by Hope Gainer of Hope International, Kimberlee Etheridge & Erin Mia Milchman of Haute in the City, Tanya Bredemeier & Sony Sensor of Sonnyphoto.com along with Jean Phillippe Vocisano & Laurent Lindenberger of Radio FG USA.

Armand Pena, Resident DJ for Nikki Beach worldwide,
DJ Valdemar & DJ Cross

Artists: Glen Mayo & Luise Valle

Fashion: Richie Swimwear

Dress Code: Blue party theme compliments of Tokyo Blue

After Party
Tokyo Blue
4040 Galt Ocean Drive
Ft. Lauderdale

The yacht will not be leaving the marina so guests can arrive anytime. But space is limited to first 500 prepaid rsvps. There is plenty of parking on-site at the marina. South Beach people can come by car or boat or our party van.

Overnight dockage is available, but reservations are required. The After Party is at a Ft Lauderdale hotspot on the beach called Tokyo Blue. It is inside Ocean Manor hotel and the owner is offering special room rates for July 9.

Special Thanks To: Tom G, owner of Sails Marina & Allure Shadow Yacht.

Supporters: Allure Shadow, Hope International, Boys & Girls Club of Broward County, Haute in the City, Sonnyphoto.com, Tokyo Blue, Radio FG USA, Dragon Bleu Vodka, Voga Italia Wines, SX Liquors, Icelandic Glacial Water, Miami Limo Coach, NPS2 Valet

Gospel Showcase Fundraiser 7/9/11

Gospel Showcase Fundraiser
Saturday, July 9, 2011, 6:30 p.m.
African Heritage Cultural Arts Center
6161 NW 22nd Avenue
Miami, FL
www.sherrihicks.com

Transforming Praise Gospel Showcase:
Sponsored by the Joint Alumni Coalition of Miami Dade. Showcase is an event to help raise funds for the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center.

Jesus Ministries Brass Band
African Heritage Dancers
Mime Performance by Sam Merzius
Spoken Word by Rebecca “Butterfly” Vaughns
Art, Music, Food
Sherri Hicks, singer/songwriter neo-soul gospel http://www.sherrihicks.com/ Debuting her single, “Changed” available now on Itunes.

TICKETS: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. BUY TICKETS HERE: http://www.ticketriver.com/event/1710/

For questions contact: cageybutterfly@gmail.com

Y.E.S. Event at Blue Martini Young Executives for Success 7/7/11

Thursday, July 07, 2011 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Blue Martini Brickell
900 South Miami Avenue
Miami, FL 33130
RSVP / Purchase Tickets.

Join Dress for Success Miami and Blue Martini Brickell for a networking cocktail event. Meet other young professionals from Miami and enjoy a complimentary martini and hor d’oeuvres.

$20 donation to be paid in advance in order to be entered in the Grand Prize Raffle of a two-night stay at the Loews Lake Las Vegas Resort

Bonus: Purchase your ticket online and receive a free raffle ticket! additional prizes include dinners-for-two in Miami restaurants and more!

Taste of the Nation 7/7/11

Taste of the Nation
Miami Date: July 7, 2011
VIP Admission – 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
General Admission – 7:00 PM -10:00 PM
The Fairmont at Turnberry Isle
19999 West Country Club Drive
Aventura, FL 33180

Ticket Prices:
VIP Admission:  6:00 – 10:00 PM | $200.00 Purchase Taste of the Nation Miami VIP Admission tickets and enjoy early admission, entry to the special VIP lounge , and gift bag. The door price is $250.
General Admission:   7:00 – 10:00 PM | $100.00 Good for a Taste of the Nation Miami General Admission ticket. The door price is $125.

Miami Join us for Taste of the Nation Miami’s 24th year! Chef Chair Andre Bienvenu of Joe’s Stone Crab and Event Chair, Chef Allen Susser, invite you to join Miami’s finest chefs and restaurants for an incredible night of fine food, scintillating spirits, wonderful wine and a whole lot of fun with the single purpose to end childhood hunger in our community.

Saun Lightbourne’s Annual Birthday/Charity Extravaganza at Set Nightclub to benefit Ayuda a great success! By Betty Alvarez

A good friend and supporter of the Miami Beach Community, Saun Lightbourne celebrated his birthday charity exravaganza on June 23 with great enthusiasm. The Birthday theme, “Denim & Diamonds” was held at the exclusive and beautiful Set Nightclub to family and friends galore supporting him and the wonderful charity benefiting from his birthday party, Ayuda.

In the early part of the festivities, guests enjoyed a VIP champagne reception and later the Open Vodka Bar Live Performances and entertainment from Saun’s friends in the musical entertainment industry gather around to wish him a Happy Birthday!

AYUDA Inc. a local Nonprofit Organization in Miami Beach received 100 % of the proceeds from Saun Lightbourne’s Annual Celebrity Birthday Charity Event. Saun has partnered with Saks Fifth Avenue~ Bal Harbor, Ocean Drive Magazine, Impact Computers, Moet & Chandon along with many other generous local and national sponsors in celebrating his birthday in support of AYUDA.

It was a spectacular event. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAUN!!!

About AYUDA
For over 30 years now, Ayuda has provided programs to children and families to HELP prevent abuse and neglect. They empower and inspire their clients to believe that they do make a difference in the world. Programs include enrichment as well as prevention for the very young to the elderly. Early educational scholarships, parenting skills as well as family empowerment programs are in place for the entire family unit. To find our more about Ayuda please visit: www.ayudamiami.org/events/ . Event donations can be made directly on the Ayuda website in lieu of gifts Saun asks for a donation to be made in order to attend the event.

About Saun Lightbourne
Saun is the Director of Sales and Marketing of the Shelborne South Beach on Miami Beach. He is committed to being a generous philanthropist in the communities where he does business and believes in supporting programs with long-term sustainable results. Because of his passionate love toward children’s causes, he has been successful in raising over 100,000 over the past 10 years for his charity of choice. This year AYUDA is the charity he has chosen; 100% of the proceeds from this event go directly to this magnificent organization that he is very proud to be a part of. Currently he sits on the Board of Directors for Ayuda. This year the goal is to raise $50,000 for this worthy cause with the help from corporate sponsors, supporters and friends. The event usually has between 300 – 500 attendees.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

Padres Brillantes Mixer/Fundraiser 6/28/11

Padres Brillantes Mixer/Fundraiser
Tuesday June 28, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Blue Martini
8405 Mills Drive #205
Miami, FL 33183

$10 donation suggested.
Register Now.

We will be having a fundraising event and social mixers with all of our supporters and members of the community for Padres Brillantes.

Enjoy a complimentary drink in our private area at the beautiful Blue Martini lounge in Kendall, Town Center

1st Annual South Florida 5K Freedom Run and PARK Festival 9/10/11

Saturday, September 10th, 7:30am – 12:00pm
JC Bermudez PARK
3000 NW 87th Avenue
Doral, Florida 33172
FREE parking available on site.
Register Now!

The 1st annual South Florida 5K Freedom Run & PARK Festival is a historic event to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the lives lost 9-11 and a monumental opportunity for the entire community to run, jog or walk alongside our military, veterans and first responders in appreciation of their sacrifices and commitment to service. The event’s host location is home to the City of Doral Police Department, United States Southern Command, Miami Dade Fire Rescue Headquarters, Miami Dade Police Department, Miami Vet Center and more!

Check In/ Registration begins at 6:00am and the 5K will officially start at 7:30am. The entire course is on pavement and the streets will be closed to traffic by City of Doral Police. We envision the side streets lined with a sea of supportive onlookers as well as US flags, patriotic banners and mile markers. Commemorative tokens and Awards will be presented to participants in different category levels of achievement immediately following the run. The PARK Festival is FREE and open to the public through NOON. The entire community gathered will pay tribute to all of the lives lost on 9-11 and to our service men and women during a solemn moment of silence and commemoration. The PARK Festival offers a unique opportunity for meaningful and personal interaction with all branches of the military, veteran organizations, police, fire rescue, service families and a community who appreciates and values the freedoms we enjoy.

For more information on the non-profit organization behind this effort, visit www.parkproject.org

Photographs by Brigette Hein The BIG Fundraising PARTY for Life Is Art and PARK Project on 6/18/11

Photographs by Brigette Hein of The BIG Fundraising PARTY for Life Is Art and PARK Project on Saturday, June 18, 2011.  What a awesome crowd and wanted to thank all of the sponsor:  UV Vodka, El Dorado Rum, AMC Liasons, Inc., Logistical Outsourcing, Prosound Productions, Elegant Parties, Rainbow Circus, StarMar Events, Sex and the Beach, Erotic Signature, Robin Louis, SocialBuzzTV, SocialMedia305, Soul Of Miami.

Photographs taken by Brigette Hein to see more of her work go to her website, www.50frames.com.

Miss Earth Florida 2011 Beauty and environment Weekend 6/24-26/11

Miss Earth Florida 2011
June 24, 25 & 26.

June 24 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Environmental day: Biscayne Nature Center

June 24 8 p.m.
Kick-off reception: at DolceVino – Claridge Hotel

June 25 & 26 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Rehearsals: Ashe Auditorium

June 26 8-10 p.m.
Final show: Ashe Auditorium (Hyatt Regency Miami)

Unique pageant that combines beauty, leadership and environmental projects
The ONLY pageant system in the planet dedicated 100% to environmental & humanitarian efforts

Ladies from across the entire state gather for a weekend to compete for the FLORIDA titles that will take one of them to nationals representing our state. Winner also gets to implement her local environmental project across the state for 1 year.

Environmental beauty competition promotes leadership
State finals to be held in Miami

Miss Earth Florida 2011, a one of a kind annual event in Florida that combines beauty, leadership and the environment is scheduled for June 24 through 26 in Miami. Ladies between 14 and 26 from across the state will spend the weekend overcoming challenges that include two rounds of interviews, environment awareness competition, a swimsuit show and a gown parade in order to conquer the title that will take one of them to represent Florida at the national finals of Miss Earth.

The event is an official preliminary to the only pageant in the world dedicated 100 percent to environmental and humanitarian efforts. Miss Earth has over 80 countries participating in the world finals each year, including the United States.

A typical year in the reign of a Miss Earth Florida includes an average of 50 official appearances that include visits to schools, tree planting ceremonies, coastal and park clean ups, environmental conferences, waste collection, recycling education, speeches at fairs and festivals, fundraisers, visits to hospitals and educational workshops for children.

In fact, it is requirement of the program that each participant creates and develops a project in her community that will contribute to bring change and awareness towards an environmental and / or humanitarian cause. These participants represent their local communities at the state finals where one teen and one miss will be chosen as the state ambassadors. They then have the chance to develop their local projects into state wide initiatives.

The weekend of the 2011 state finals will include an educational session and tree planting ceremony at Biscayne Nature Center, a tribute to 2010 winners Kelly Saks and Brittney Ronda, environmental workshops, rehearsals, vendor lounge for green businesses, a VIP green carpet and the glamorous crowning ceremony June 26 at 8 p.m. at the Miami Convention Center’s Ashe Auditorium.

The crowning ceremony will be hosted by Patrick Nolan, Fox 4 Now news anchor.

The pageant is produced by Integral Beauty Productions and is sponsored by ecofriendly businesses including Eyes Wide Open, Organic Splendor Vegan Make Up, The Give Bag, ConColor Imports, Mar Boutique, Dear Earth apparel, Eco Chic Fashion by Meadow, SoBe Dentist, Shannon Saint Clair Jewelry, Jubilee Jewels, La Casa Hermosa and WowBrows Studio.

For more information visit www.MissEarthFlorida.com.

Bowling for Buddies 6/23/11

The Collection & Audi Presents the Second Annual Bowling for Buddies Tournament
Thursday June 23, 7:00 pm – Midnight
Lucky Strike Lanes
1691 Michigan Avenue
Miami Beach, Fl

Join us for an evening of fabulous bites, cocktails, and fun!

Register today at www.bestbuddiesflorida.org/bowling. Packages include bowling, drinks, and appetizers for the evening.
For Sponsorship or VIP information contact Martha Lagarde at MarthaLagarde@bestbuddies.orgor 954-944-2450 ext. 203

Miami Celebrity Domino Night benefitting Amigos for Kids, a grand domino effect with supporters by Betty Alvarez

Amigos for Kids celebrated its 20th anniversary this year at the highly-anticipated annual fundraiser, the ING Miami Celebrity Domino Night on June 18 at Jungle Island. Guests were treated to a buzzing domino club, live entertainment, dinner-by-the-bite by Miami’s most prominent chefs and restaurants, open bar courtesy of Bacardi U.S.A., live entertainment by Albita and a stellar silent auction featuring Cuban art, sports memorabilia and much more.

Amigos For Kids® is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect by valuing children, strengthening families and educating communities. Proceeds from tickets and domino tables will benefit Amigos For Kids™. For more information on how to help Amigos for kids please visit www.amigosforkids.org

Photographs by Betty Alvarez Copyright 2011

United Way Miami Wine and Food Festival launches Bacardi’s 60 Second Cocktails, a monthly series By Betty Alvarez

In April, the United Way Miami Wine & Food Festival experienced record-breaking ticket sales and sold out events. To meet popular demand, the festival launched a series of year-round wine and food events – all for a good cause. 60 Second Cocktails with Bacardi is the kick-off event marking the expansion, and all proceeds benefited United Way of Miami-Dade’s work in education, financial stability and health.

On June 16, guests brushed up on their bartending skills and learned how to make delicious cocktails, with help from Bacardi mixologist and Miami-native, Gabe Urrutia who is an expert in the cocktail trend of molecular mixology. He taught guests how to make a balanced cocktail from a blend of unique ingredients in just 60 seconds.

A Bacardi Bar cocktail reception followed where guests enjoyed cocktails, appetizers, music, a special gift and exclusive entry to the private Emilio Bacardi Company Museum, not open to the general public. The museum showcases historical photos and memorabilia dating back to the 1860s, a recount of the company’s evolution, how Bacardi adopted its world famous “Bat” trademark, and much more.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

Hands Across the Sand 6/25/11


Floridians join hands to oppose expanded offshore drilling and urge investments in cleaner energy choices
Saturday, June 25, from 11 a.m. until 12:15 p.m.
We will join hands from 12 noon until 12:15 p.m.
Miami Beach
at the end of 5th Street in the sand, at intersection of Ocean Drive

On June 25th at 12 noon in many time zones worldwide, people will join hands on beaches and in cities for an annual “Hands Across The Sand” event. They will say NO to expanded offshore drilling and YES to clean energy solutions.

“Hands Across The Sand” began in 2009, to demonstrate the depth of public support for protecting coastal economies, oceans and marine life from the threats of offshore drilling. As Woody Allen said, “Eighty percent of success is showing up.”

“Hands Across The Sand” participants will join hands to urge decision makers to end the United States’ dependence on fossil fuels and begin investing in cleaner energy choices now.

Residents of Miami will “draw a line in the sand,” by joining hands in symbolic demonstration against offshore drilling. Last year’s “Hands Across the Sand” Miami event attracted thousands of people, making it one of the largest anti-drilling and pro-clean energy demonstrations in the world.

Diverse Miami residents
Representatives from Surfrider, Oceana,
Urban Paradise Guild, Sierra Club, Environmental Coalition of Miami Beach
Environment Florida and Greenpeace Miami

Map: http://mapq.st/jPgsgV

The event will take place on Miami Beach, rain or shine.
www.handsacrossthesand.com
Katie Parrish, kparrish@oceana.org, 305.741.9416 (cell) or
Mike Gibaldi, Miami@surfrider.org, 305.389.4615

Pupperoni unites dogs and people 6/25/11

Saturday, June 25, 1-3 p.m.
Mayfair Hotel
3000 Florida Avenue
Coconut Grove

Pricing: $30
**RSVP required at RSVP@zm-pr.com

Mayfair Hotel hosts “Pupperoni” for people and their dogs, benefiting Spay Neuter Miami Foundation–a new organization dedicated to the prevention of unwanted pets. Guests will enjoy a day filled with wine, bubbly, beer, pizza and accessories for beings and dogs by Vanderbitch.

Spay Neuter Miami Foundation is the unprecedented initiative that comes in response to Miami-Dade’s unwanted pet population and over-crowded shelter. With nearly 36,000 intakes at Miami-Dade Animal Services last year, this newly registered 501c3 is dedicated to sterilization programs in Miami, and with your help, is taking action to secure donor-subsidized spay and neuter programs for local communities that need it most. Spay Neuter Miami is the only organization created to address the source of the problem and prevent unwanted animals from being born.

WGIRLS Host Event Hello Stiletto to Benefit Miami’s Lotus House Shelter 6/25/11

Saturday, June 25, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Roy Teeluck Salon
200 South Biscayne Boulevard

WGIRLS, an international all female volunteer organization dedicated to bettering the lives of underprivileged women and children, today announced that it will launch its Miami Chapter with a sole-inspired fundraising event dubbed “Hello Stiletto!” to collect new and gently used shoes in support of Lotus House Shelter.

WGIRLS Miami CHAPTER debuts with charity event!
“Hello Stiletto!” to benefit Lotus House shelter

WGIRLS, an international all female volunteer organization dedicated to bettering the lives of underprivileged women and children, today announced that it will launch its Miami Chapter with a sole-inspired fundraising event dubbed “Hello Stiletto!” to collect new and gently used shoes in support of Lotus House Shelter. The event will take place at the famed Roy Teeluck Salon, located at 200 South Biscayne Boulevard, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 25, 2011.

Glamour and goodwill come toe-to-toe at this Saturday evening primp party, complete with salon services, bubbly, small bites, gift bag goodies, “the All about Shoe” auction, and music by DJ Constantino Padovano, aka Funky Junction, and Jane Vanderbilt. World renowned celebrity stylist Roy Teeluck and team will provide pay-as-you-wish services, including manicures, blowouts, makeup application, and chair massages.
Attendees will step out looking their Saturday night best while giving a step up for the Lotus House – all for the ticket price of $10, or donation of new or gently used shoes at the door.

Proceeds and donated footwear will help provide support for the women and their children at the Lotus House; a unique resource center and residential facility serving homeless women and infants in the heart of the historic African American district of Overtown.

Donations and sponsorships for the event are provided by Roy Teeluck Salon, L’Oréal Professionnel, Spark & Spark, Vanessa Avellar, LA Sweets, Constantino Padovano, Mortar and Pestle Boutique Apothecary, Joanna Paige and more.

The WGIRLS Inc. is an international, all female volunteer organization that provides underprivileged women and children with the support and resources necessary to achieve health, happiness, and the ability to lead productive and successful adult lives. Founded in 2007, the organization has expanded to fifteen chapters in the United States, UK and Australia. To date there are approximately 450 active WGIRLS volunteers. Since inception, The WGIRLS Inc. has provided thousands of hours of volunteer service and has granted over half a million dollars to organizations that share their mission to serve disadvantaged women and children throughout the United States. To learn more about the WGIRLS Inc visit www.wgirls.org and follow the WGIRLS on Facebook and Twitter.

The Lotus House is a unique resource center and residential facility serving homeless women and infants in the heart of the historic African American district of Overtown, Miami, an area suffering from extreme poverty in one of the poorest large cities in the United States. Lotus House provides free transitional housing and wrap around support services with access to a wide range of resources to approximately 130 women and infants annually. With a holistic, gender specific and innovative format, Lotus House seeks to empower women to improve the quality of their lives on every level, achieve greater self sufficiency and transition to permanent homes off the streets. For more information on Lotus House please visit www.lotushouseshelter.org.

Roy Teeluck-Miami, the glamorous outpost of its New York City counterpart, introduces a fresh take on beauty to downtown Miami. Paired with the brand’s trademark élan, the salon and spa reflects the neighborhood’s growing influence and popularity. For more information, please visit http://royteeluck.com/locations/miami.

1st Annual Wine Tasting Pairing Party With Miami Dolphin Great Mark Clayton 6/23/11

Thursday, June 23 · 7:00pm – 11:00pm
Cafe Martorano’s (Located Outside The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino)
5751 Seminole Way
Hollywood, FL

1st Annual Red Carpet Wine Tasting Pairing Party With Miami Dolphin Great Mark Clayton Benefitting The Mark Clayton Endzone Foundation & Parkland Rangers Organization For Pop Warner Football Kids. $75 a ticket or 2 tickets for $100 includes appetizers, wine tasting, beer & entertainment. This event is being held at The World Famous Cafe Martorano’s at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

Saun Lightbourne’s Annual Birthday/Charity Extravaganza 6/23/11

Saun Lightbourne’s Annual Birthday/Charity Extravaganza
“Denim & Diamonds”
SET Nightclub
320 Lincoln Road Miami Beach
June 23rd, 2011
· 7:00PM to 8:00PM VIP Champagne Reception
· 8:00PM to 11:00PM Open Vodka Bar, Live Performances and Entertainment

Buy your tickets here: http://ayuda.eventbrite.com

Saun Lightbourne to Donate proceeds from birthday event to AYUDA Inc. a local Nonprofit Organization in Miami Beach

Miami Beach based organization, Ayuda Inc. will receive 100 % of the proceeds from Saun Lightbourne’s Annual Celebrity Birthday Charity Event. Saun has partnered with Saks Fifth Avenue~ Bal Harbor, Ocean Drive Magazine, Impact Computers, Moet & Chandon along with many other generous local and national sponsors in celebrating his birthday in support of AYUDA. This years’ theme is Denim and Diamonds. There will be great exposure too many of South Florida’s elite and most affluent along with appearances from local and national celebrities.

Honorary Hostesses:
Johnana Abraham, Michelle Addison, Giuliana Ardito, Evelyn Castro, Lee Damus, Heather Davis, Alexia Echevarria, Nicole Boswell-Horstmeyer, Jillian Jacobson, DR Karr, Catherine Anne Markert, Malinka Max, Marysol Patton, Lisa Pliner, Mary Ann Portell, Jennifer Postrel, Terah Rahming, Sam Robin, Sandee Saunders, Stacey Bernstein-Shon,
Deborah Slack, Claudine Smurfit, Dr. Andrea Trowers

About AYUDA
For over 30 years now, Ayuda has provided programs to children and families to HELP prevent abuse and neglect. They empower and inspire their clients to believe that they do make a difference in the world. Programs include enrichment as well as prevention for the very young to the elderly. Early educational scholarships, parenting skills as well as family empowerment programs are in place for the entire family unit. To find our more about Ayuda please visit: www.ayudamiami.org/events/ . Event donations can be made directly on the Ayuda website in lieu of gifts Saun asks for a donation to be made in order to attend the event.

About Saun Lightbourne
Saun is the Director of Sales and Marketing of the Shelborne South Beach on Miami Beach. He is committed to being a generous philanthropist in the communities where he does business and believes in supporting programs with long-term sustainable results. Because of his passionate love toward children’s causes, he has been successful in raising over 100,000 over the past 10 years for his charity of choice. This year AYUDA is the charity he has chosen; 100% of the proceeds from this event go directly to this magnificent organization that he is very proud to be a part of. Currently he sits on the Board of Directors for Ayuda. This year the goal is to raise $50,000 for this worthy cause with the help from corporate sponsors, supporters and friends. The event usually has between 300 – 500 attendees. Highlights of past year’s events. http://www.ialivenetwork.com/video/493/saun-lightbourne-annual-birthday-extravaganza.

Miss Earth Florida finals in Miami 6/26/11

Environmental beauty competition promotes leadership
State finals to be held in Miami
June 26 at 8 p.m.
Miami Convention Center’s Ashe Auditorium

Miss Earth Florida 2011, a one of a kind annual event in Florida that combines beauty, leadership and the environment is scheduled for June 24 through 26 in Miami. Ladies between 14 and 26 from across the state will spend the weekend overcoming challenges that include two rounds of interviews, environment awareness competition, a swimsuit show and a gown parade in order to conquer the title that will take one of them to represent Florida at the national finals of Miss Earth.

The event is an official preliminary to the only pageant in the world dedicated 100 percent to environmental and humanitarian efforts. Miss Earth has over 80 countries participating in the world finals each year, including the United States.

A typical year in the reign of a Miss Earth Florida includes an average of 50 official appearances that include visits to schools, tree planting ceremonies, coastal and park clean ups, environmental conferences, waste collection, recycling education, speeches at fairs and festivals, fundraisers, visits to hospitals and educational workshops for children.

In fact, it is requirement of the program that each participant creates and develops a project in her community that will contribute to bring change and awareness towards an environmental and / or humanitarian cause. These participants represent their local communities at the state finals where one teen and one miss will be chosen as the state ambassadors. They then have the chance to develop their local projects into state wide initiatives.

The weekend of the 2011 state finals will include an educational session and tree planting ceremony at Biscayne Nature Center, a tribute to 2010 winners Kelly Saks and Brittney Ronda, environmental workshops, rehearsals, vendor lounge for green businesses, a VIP green carpet and the glamorous crowning ceremony.

The pageant is produced by Integral Beauty Productions and is sponsored by ecofriendly businesses including Eyes Wide Open, Organic Splendor Vegan Make Up, The Give Bag, ConColor Imports, Mar Boutique, Dear Earth apparel, Eco Chic Fashion by Meadow, SoBe Dentist, Shannon Saint Clair Jewelry, La Casa Hermosa, WowBrows Studio and Jubilee Jewels.

For more information visit www.MissEarthFlorida.com or contact Sandra Silva at info@earthfloridapageants.com. Tickets on sale now.

Bowling for Rhinos 7/15/11

Bowling for Rhinos
July 15, 2011, 6:30 p.m.
Bird Bowl Bowling Center,
9275 SW 40th Street
Miami, FL 33165
www.zoomiami.org

BOWLING FOR RHINOS RETURNS TO BIRD BOWL ON JULY 15, 2011

The annual bowling fundraiser by the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) benefits the South Florida Chapter of AAZK’s rhino conservation projects.

Zoo Miami and the South Florida Chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK).

Bowling for Rhinos (BFR) 2011, an annual bowling fundraiser that benefits the South Florida Chapter of AAZK’S rhino conservation projects, is sure not to leave you in the gutter. With its goal of helping rhinos worldwide, 100% off all funds raised by BFR benefits rhino conservation projects for four species of Rhino, their habitats, and hundreds of other endangered plants and animals. BFR helps preserve the black, white, Javan and Sumatran rhinos.

To download brochure, registration form and get complete information, visit www.zoomiami.org.

Cylk Cozart and Keeping Dreams Alive Presents Mike Marino 6/17/11

Mike Marino – Keeping Dreams Alive (Comedy)
June 17, 2011 Friday 7:00 pm
Coral Springs Center for the Arts.

Order Online
$37.00 – $47.00
Student discount price – $22 per ticket for select seating (show ID at box office).

Cylk Cozart & “Keeping Dreams Alive” Presents, “The Mike Marino Comedy Show”, Come see the “Number One Comedian in the Country”!

Movie Star, Cylk Cozart (www.cylkcozart.com), from the Mega Hit films, “White Men Can’t Jump”, “Conspiracy Theory”, “Eraser”, “16 Blocks”, “Three To Tango” and Steven Speilberg’s “Eagle Eye”, is Co-CEO of KDA (a 501(c)3 non profit organization helping ‘at risk’ student – athletes attain their college degrees. Cozart, is Director of Entertainment / Education of KDA.

Your support with advertising/promotion, will assist KDA in promoting this very worthy event.

Please aid us in helping the youth of South Florida. ALL proceeds benefit “our kids” and are tax deductible.
KDA Foundation staff consists of entertainers, pro/college athletes, community leaders, principals, teachers, guidance counselors, coaches and volunteers. We totally support student athletes and their parents as they transition academically /socially from middle to high school and Post Secondary education, especially in urban communities. We realize that students need more support with maintaining good academic habits and acquiring appropriate life / study skills while being actively involved with their communities.

Photographs of Music-Art-Culture Benefit Concert for Behavior Links at The Club on 6/10/11

Music-Art-Culture Benefit Concert for Behavior Links at  The Club At Renaissance on Friday, June 10, 2011.  What a great event!! The music was awesome and the raffle was so much fun.  Keep up the great work!!

A Resource for Families of Children with Special Needs. Behavior Links is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of individuals with special needs and their families. With a family-centered approach, our objective is to create and strengthen links to learning and development. Our mission is to help each child with special needs realize their full potential by actively involving their family and the community through education and training.  We are proud to be offering all of our programs at little to no cost to families, thanks to our supporters.

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Young Professionals Fundraiser for Alabama 6/25/11

Coral Gables Rotaract invites you to Get Happy for a good cause!
Saturday, June 25
SET
320 Lincoln Road
Miami Beach

Network and help raise funds for disaster relief in Alabama following the deadly tornadoes this past April.
Enjoy an open vodka bar from 10-11PM.
Admission until 12AM.

CG Rotaract Members: $15 | Non-Members: $20

Learn more or donate now at: www.coralgablesrotarct.org.

Food Truck Rally benefiting Florida Heart Research Institute 6/23/11

Food Truck Rally benefiting Florida Heart Research Institute
6-23-11, 5:30pm – 10:00pm
Miami Science Museum
3280 S. Miami Avenue
Miami, FL 33129
www.facebook.com/floridaheart

Please join us as we host a food truck rally with the best food trucks in Miami on the evening of Thursday, June 23rd, from 5:30pm – 10pm at the Miami Science Museum benefiting the Florida Heart Research Institute. The event is hosted in conjunction with the Museum’s Young Patrons group who host a regularly occurring Happy Hour event inside the Museum. The Happy Hour will be open to the public.

The mission of Florida Heart Research Institute is to stop heart disease through research, education and prevention. We are non-profit and rely on tax-deductible, corporate and individual donations to fund our programs. A percentage of the food sales will be donated to the Florida Heart Research Institute to help us continue providing free screenings (EKG, blood pressure, blood analysis, etc.) and worksite wellness right here in South Florida.

We’ll be joined by Trucks that have confirmed: Ms. Cheezious, gastropod, Sakaya Kitchen, Jefe’s Original Fish Taco & Burger, Dolci Peccati Gelato, Miso Hungry, Muscle Truck, Sugar Yummy Mama, MexZican Gourmet, Slow Food Truck, Yellow Submarine, Divan Bakery, Tango Grill, Rolling Stove, Gyromaniakz, Dog Eat Dog, and more.

Miramar Welcomes Its First Food Truck Festival 6/12/11

Sunday, June 12, 2011 from 12pm – 4pm
Everglades Senior High School
17100 SW 48 Ct
Miramar, FL 33027.

Miramar’s first food truck festival will make its debut on Sunday, June 12, 2011 from 12pm – 4pm. This first food truck festival, hosted by Calvary Fellowship, will help raise money for the organization’s upcoming mission trips taking place this summer in New Hampshire and the Dominican Republic. There will be a $5 cover charge to enter the food truck area.

Confirmed trucks are CheeseMe Mobile, Clarabelle’s Cupcakes, The Flying Saucer, Grill Master Café, Latin Burger & Taco, The Red Truck and Sakaya Kitchen. More trucks are expected to join the line-up as the event builds in popularity.

There will be plenty of free parking, picnic tables and bathrooms on-site.
The event is hosted by Calvary Fellowship, a contemporary Christian Church who hosts their services at Everglades High School on Sundays at 10am and 11:30am.

“I’m so excited to be putting this event together with my church for a great cause. I will be one of many who will be visiting the Dominican Republic this summer to take medical supplies to an under privileged and impoverished city. The money raised during the food truck meet up will help raise money toward our travel expenses accommodations, food and supplies we’ll be taking,” said Alex Miranda, organizer of the event and participant of the missions trip. “We have many ways of raising money, but decided that food truck gathering is the perfect fit to help raise awareness while at the same time having people participate in something that is so popular and enjoyable ad the food truck trend is right now. ”

Urban Environment League’s 6th Annual Orchids and Onions Awards Presentation 6/15/11

Urban Environment League’s 6th Annual Orchids & Onions Awards Presentation
June 15, 2011, 6pm
VILLA 221
221 NE 17th St.
Miami, FL 33132
www.uel.org
RSVP to uelinfo@bellsouth.net | 786-472-0011

For over 10 years, the Urban Environment League has supported environmentally responsible development that focuses on the protection of the waterfront, public places, and historic and natural areas throughout Miami-Dade County.

In its 6th Annual Orchids & Onions Awards Ceremony, the UEL will recognize the various individuals and groups that are complimenting this important mission to make Miami a more vibrant city made up of healthy neighborhoods to live, work & play.

The awards ceremony will take place at the beautiful new downtown space of Villa 221. Past award recipients, elected officials and UEL board members will present the Orchid awards, along with the presentation of the Onion awards that are given to individuals who have made negative impacts to our community, or are in the midst of such challenges.

Hor D’oeuvres + Complimentary Liquor + Cash Bar with $15 Donation

Music- Art- Culture Night Benefit 6/10/11

‘Music- Art- Culture’ Night Benefit
Fri June 10,2011, 7:30PM
The Club At Renaissance
2340 SW 32nd Avenue
Miami, Florida 33145
Facebook Evite.

Music – Art – Culture [ M.A.C. ]
Benefit Concert for Behavior Links

“A Resource for Families of Children with Special Needs”

Join us for a night of LIVE MUSIC, ART EXHIBITIONS, and AUCTIONS.

LIVE MUSIC by
Oba Frank Lords
Music Is A Weapon
London Exchange
The Voice In Fashion
Ray Guell
AfroBeta
Elastic Bond
Radar Vs Wolf

LIVE Art painting by
Luis Valle

Behavior Links is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of individuals with special needs and their families. With a family-centered approach, our objective is to create and strengthen links to learning and development.

Behavior Links
P.O. Box 297855,
Pembroke Pines, FL 33029
info@behaviorlinks.org
www.behaviorlinks.org

Family Resource Center’s Toast to Awareness of Child Abuse & Neglect By Betty Alvarez

Guests gathered for an evening of delicious wine tasting paired with appetizers at the beautiful wine bar at Fleming’s Steakhouse in Coral Gables on June 3. Two different varieties of white wines and three different varieties of red wines were the delight of the guests as they tried to wet their palette in this delectable event.

All proceeds went towards Family Resource’s Center’s Back to School On-Track campaign to raise funds for backpacks and school supplies for children living in foster care.

For more information please visit www.frcflorida.org

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

The Lynching Eye: A Juneteenth Celebration, Art & Education Choreopoem 6/18/11

Alexis Caputo │PROJECT WITNESS present The Lynching Eye: A Juneteenth Celebration, Art & Education Choreopoem inspired by the life of Rubin Stacy.
Saturday, June 18, 2011, 6-9pm
Broward Historical Commission
301 Harmon Avenue (S.W. 13th Avenue)
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33312

Performance & Fundraiser: Admission: Free & Open to the Public (Suggested Donation $20)

Arts & Cultural Enthusiasts: Witness the power of transformation, as Alexis Caputo presents The Lynching Eye, a choreopoem, spawned and translated from one author’s perspective Rubin Stacy/Seven Moves by Summer Hill 7 of the Poemedy Project to another. Caputo explores concepts with a hungry eye for new language and unforced organic theatre, while creating a synthesis of the voice, body and word, evidence that art is malleable.

Rubin Stacy was a homeless South Florida tenant farmer who was lynched in 1935 by an angry mob en route from Fort Lauderdale to a Miami-Dade prison. The Lynching Eye relies on the mind, body and spirit to examine lynching from an artistic perspective, while speaking to assaults on one’s identity with female voices using the expressive modalities of story, poetry, song, dance, music and visual art as educational components for a touring workshop.

Featuring: Alexis Caputo, Moussa & Trina Soumah of Ballet Brika/West African Dance Theater, DJ One Star, Marcia Anderson, Sister Idya, SOULFLOWER “Empress of Hip-Hop”, Michelle Grant-Murray/Front Street Dancers. Visual Artists: Addonis Parker, Niki Lopez, Rodney Royal, Sister Idya & Wanda Paulette.

Donations are for the purpose of raising funds and awareness about arts in education via Project Witness. In-kind contributions and donations are tax-deductible. Project Witness is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization.

The Lynching Eye is a post festival gathering, as part of the Juneteenth Festival spearheaded by Old Dillard Museum & Old Dillard Foundation, Juneteenth Festival community partners.

Photographs of SHAPE Bikini Body Tour Miami on 6/4/11

SHAPE Bikini Body Tour Miami on Saturday, June 4, 2011.  Such an awesome event…and the proceeds go to The Skin Cancer Foundation.   The fashion show presented some amazing swimsuits (wanted all of them :-) ), all of the suits were featured on the cover of SHAPE Magazine. The had the Michelob Ultra® cabana you paid $5 and drink all the Michelob Ultra you wanted.  Looking forward to attending next year and will take some classes.

The Skin Cancer Foundation is the only global organization solely devoted to the prevention, early detection and treatment of skin cancer. The mission of the Foundation is to decrease the incidence of skin cancer through public and professional education and research. For more information, visit www.SkinCancer.org.

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Caring About The Strays Marlins vs Diamondbacks 6/11/11

On Saturday, June 11th the Florida Marlins will beat the Arizona Diamondbacks, followed by a Super Saturday concert with Ludacris!

Go to www.marlins.com/caringaboutthestrays for specially discounted tickets!

Special Offer Code: strays

Caring About The Strays and the Marlins invite you to see the Marlins and the Arizona Diamondbacks on Saturday, June 11th at 7:10 PM. Stay after the game for a live post-game concert featuring LUDACRIS. Save 24% off the gameday price through this special offer. A portion of every ticket is donated to Caring About The Strays (a non-profit animal rescue group).

The Legends Alumni Classic 1st Annual Charity Weekend In Miami 6/24-27/11

Friday, June 24th, 2011- 7pm-9pm – V.I.P. Poolside Welcome Reception @ Epic Hotel, 270 Biscayne Blvd Way, Miami, FL 33131

Saturday, June 25th, 2011 10am-2pm – Youth Football & Cheerleader Clinic and Community Health Fair @ NFL YET Center, 7090 Northwest 22nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33147

Sunday, June 26th, 2011 1pm-7pm – The Legends Alumni Classic Flag Football Game @ North Miami Athletic Stadium, 2155 NE 151st ST, Miami, FL 33162

Monday, June 27th, 2011 7:30am-until – Legends Alumni Charity Golf Tournament @ Normandy Shores Golf Club, 2401 Blarritz Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33141

One of the Hottest Sporting Charity Weekend Events toTake Place in South Florida on June 24th -27th, 2011

The Legends Alumni Classic will be celebrating its four-day long charity weekend in Miami from Friday, June 24th through Monday, June 27th, 2011. This weekend of events will include a VIP Welcome Reception (June 24th), Youth Football & Cheerleading Clinic and Community Health Fire (June 25th), Alumni Flag Football Game (June 26th) and a Rivalry Golf Tournament (June 27th). Over 10,000 spectators including V.I.P’s, event sponsors, sports legends, current professional players, and of course the fans are expected to be in attendance throughout the four day festivities.

The Legends Alumni Classic is a charity weekend that was created to allow former collegiate alumni athletes an opportunity to compete in friendly competition against their ultimate collegiate rival while raising funds to support local charities in their community. The charity weekend will bring over 100 former collegiate talented alumni players from Florida State Seminoles and University of Miami Hurricanes back once again to settle the score on the field. The matchups of these two teams are considered as the most anticipated game in all of college football. Former and current players that have been invited to attend this event include Antonio Cromartie, Warrick Dunn, Edgerrin James, Peter Warrick, Anquan Boldin, Santana Moss, Charlie Ward, Gerald Daphnis, Leon Searcy, Reggie Johnson, and many more…

The Legends Alumni Classic is more than just celebrity athletes and football; it is about giving back to the local community and extending a hand to children in need. In its first year, the proceeds of the weekend will benefit several charities including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tallahassee and Miami-Dade, the non- profit charity that inspires and enables youth to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.

Sponsors include: Powerade, ZICO Beverage, Fire Up Sports, Popchips, 5 Hour Energy Drink, North Miami Parks & Recreation Center, NFL YET Center and Department of Health.

The Legends Alumni Classic is an event not to be missed. The general public is welcome to all events. For additional information, visit www.legendsalumniclassic.com or call 877.726.7997. Follow Legends Alumni Classic on Twitter @legendsalumni.

NFL Players Bartend for Charity at The Ultimate After Work Party 6/3/11

NFL Players Bartend for Charity at The Ultimate After Work Party
Friday June 3rd, 6pm
The Grand Central Miami
697 North Miami Avenue (at 7th and Miami ave 3 blks from AA Arena)
Miami, FL 33136

SET Magazine will be hosting this After Work Cocktail Party Series featuring NFL players as they show off their bartending skills mixing juice, smoothies, energy drinks, and specialty elixirs. Event proceeds benefit SET Cares. Advanced tickets at www.celebevents.eventbrite.com

American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Miami Beach 6/11-12/11

American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Miami Beach
June 11-12, 2:00 pm
North Shore Park
501 72nd Street
Miami Beach Fl 33141
Relayforlife.org/MiamiBeachfl

Fundraiser for the Biggest cause in the world that does not care of race, origin, or color, CANCER. At this event there will be different types of vendors selling Edible and fashionable goods. Lots of activities for the kids and adults and live DJ all night long this event Will open at 6:00pm With the Survivor Walk, Continue throughout the night with the lumenaria ceremony walk at 9:00 and a closing walk at 10:00am.

Fun Activities all night long for kids and adults

Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s overnight, community event, where teams form, raise money and walk throughout the night, camp out, while enjoying a DJ, entertainment, food, fun and camaraderie. Cancer Survivors are the shining stars of Relay For Life; we celebrate their courage in the fight. The Candle Lighting Luminaria Ceremony is the highlight of Relay, as hundreds of candles will encircle our walking track each one purchased in honor or in memory of a loved one who has battled cancer.

It’s All Around Town…
The Relay For Life is coming to Miami Beach, June 11-12, 2011! Teams are forming from local companies, businesses, schools, churches, hospitals, clubs & organizations. During the 2010 fiscal year, the Miami Dade Community raised an estimated $1,672,000 towards the fight against cancer!!!

And You Won’t want to Miss it!
The Relay For Life offers everyone a chance to make a difference in the fight against cancer, to raise funds for American Cancer Society Research, Education and Patient Services in your community. And, most importantly it is a fun time, with lots of entertainment and activities!

Photographs of the Shanghai Glamour ICFAC Access to China Closing Fundraiser Gala on 5/28/11

Shanghai Glamour ICFAC Access to China Closing Fundraiser Gala on Saturday, May 28, 2011.  Had a wonderful time, the art was so beautiful, they had some awesome tequila, Los Azulejos, on the open bar and the food was outstanding, Chu’s Taiwanese Kitchen and Bar in Coral Gables catered this event and they are one of my top favorite restaurants in Miami.

Formed in 2006, the mission of the ICFAC, International Chinese Fine Arts Council, is to create global understanding of the Chinese culture through art and music, to promote Chinese arts across th…e world and to educate and expose the general public to contemporary Chinese aesthetic. Overseen by Inez Suen, a curator with footholds in contemporary design and art, as well as China and the United States, the ICFAC fosters a sense of belonging and communication among the Chinese Diaspora on every continent, bridging the vast cultural gaps with the nation’s rich traditions and modern elegance. ICFAC exhibited both crafts and fine art from Taiwan in Miami during Art Basel 2010 and has a new exhibition in partnership with Art Lexing through the end of May entitled, “Access to China”.

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Tobacco Road goes Pink for 19th Amendment Anniversary Hoedown 6/4/11

Saturday, June 4th, 6pm – 2am
Tobacco Road
626 Miami Avenue

Tobacco Road Presents Your Right!
19th Amendment Anniversary Hoedown!
Benefiting the ‘Save the Ta-Tas Foundation’ for Breast Cancer Research

In celebration of the 92nd Anniversary of the passing of the 19th Amendment, Miami’s oldest bar, Tobacco Road, is celebrating the women we love with a down home country Hoedown! The event, which will include a mechanical bull riding contest, specialty Ultimat vodka cocktails like Pink Passion Lemonade, Miller Lite buckets and 15 of Miami’s favorite slow food trucks!

Further showing The Road’s love for the ladies, women’s suffrage and the importance of breast cancer research, Tobacco Road will be painted PINK the week prior to the Hoedown!

Life Is Art and PARK Project the BIG fundraising PARTY 6/18/11

Life Is Art & PARK Project
Cordially invite you to
The BIG Fundraising PARTY

Enjoy a Fabulous Night of Art, Music, Fashion, Performance and More!

Saturday, June 18, 6:00pm – 11:00pm

Surfcomber Hotel Pool Area
1717 Collins Ave
Miami Beach, FL 33139

$10 pre-sale, $20 at the door
to support the arts and community in south Florida
More Information.
(pre-sale tickets until 6/16/11)

Life Is Art and PARK Project are really excited to bring you a very special party. A night filled with art, music, fashion, performances and even free drinks will make for a great fundraiser to support the south Florida arts and community. All of the money raised goes straight to Life Is Art and PARK Project to help their missions. A big thanks goes out to all the sponsors and everyone donating their time and effort to this event!

Rock Concert by: Day Music Died
Fashion by: Casey Levan, Aidana Baldassarre, CherryRootz
Performances by: Rainbow Circus
Music by: DJ Robin Louis

Complimentary Beverages 7-9pm by UV Vodka & El Dorado Rum courtesy of AMC Liasons, Inc.

FEATURED ARTISTS:
April Anselona * * * David Juhe * * * Emily Rosen * * * Gigi Lage * * * Gretel Sarmiento * * * Janet M Mueller * * * Mary Larsen * * * Peter Rose * * * Randy Walsh * * * Sean Murdock * * * Stephanie Menjivar * * * Troy Dovey * * * Michael Diaz * * * Rainer Lagemann * * * Paula Turk

Sponsored by: UV Vodka, El Dorado Rum, AMC Liasons, Inc., Logistical Outsourcing, Prosound Productions, Elegant Parties, Rainbow Circus, StarMar Events, Sex and the Beach, Erotic Signature, Robin Louis, SocialBuzzTV, SocialMedia305, Soul Of Miami

www.lifeisartfest.orgwww.parkproject.org

Photographs of the Opening Launch of Design House at Novecento on 5/26/11

Opening Launch of Design House at Novecento on Thursday, May 26, 2011.  They were taking donations and raffle to benefit The Coral Gables Museum.

As described by the founders, Designhouse is a boutique web, print, and brand design agency. When asked about their new venture, they both smiled and responded:  If you can dream it, we can create it.  Websites, logos, e-marketing, and branding are attacked with a holistic approach to give their clients a leg above the competition. This one-two punch power house design team takes pride in offering clients the personal touch which is what they feel has been missing in the creative world for a long while.The like-minded professionals met, and felt there was a void in the business community. They noticed growing changes and needs in the marketplace as well as a rising trend, a preference for working with boutique firms and local based ones more often times than not. The reason given by proprietors was simple, to get the service that was once paramount in a relationship with an agency but somehow lost during the last few years. Gretel Vi as and Liz Rodriguez felt they had the perfect recipe as they both poses mind blowing talent combined with easy going personalities that fit the boutique style of business.

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Fundraiser Happy Hour at Hard Rock Cafe at Bayside 6/9/11

Happy Hour at the Hard Rock Cafe
Thursday, June 9, 6:30 – 9:30 PM
Hard Rock Café at Bayside
401 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL 33
More Info and Registration.

Please come support the Zoological Society of Florida on June 9th at our fundraiser at Hard Rock Café – Bayside. Join us for the unveiling of the limited-edition Zoo Miami Hard Rock Café pin, featuring Zoo Miami’s own jaguar, an endangered species . Enjoy a live band, hors d’oeuvres, and raffle entry to win various prizes. It’s sure to be a fun-filled evening! Please click on the image below to purchase a ticket for admission- your $10 donation benefits ZSF. Hope to see you there!

Education Reform Benefit Luncheon with Jeb Bush and Michelle Rhee 6/16/11

Former Governor Of Florida Jeb Bush And Studentsfirst’s Michelle Rhee To Discuss Education Reform Issues
Thursday, June 16, 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
The Four Seasons Hotel
1435 Brickell Avenue
Miami, FL 33131
RSVP Info: www.marcoislandacademy.com / 239.404.3622

Ticket: General Admission – $150 per person
Benefactor Ticket – $750 per couple (Includes priority seating and private champagne reception with speakers from 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
Table Sponsor – $1,250 (Table seats 10 people)

The Power of Two: Influential Education Reform Leaders Make a Difference by Putting Education First

Former Governor of Florida, Jeb Bush and Michelle Rhee, Founder and CEO of StudentsFirst, a movement dedicated to transforming public education throughout the United States.

Two education reformers, Jeb Bush and Michelle Rhee will have a bipartisan discussion to elevate the need to work collaboratively on improving the nation’s public education system. Guests will enjoy a beautiful luncheon while listening to key speakers discuss important issues in today’s education. All proceeds will go to benefit education reform.

Michelle Rhee is the Founder and CEO of StudentsFirst. She has been working for the last 18 years to give children the skills and knowledge they will need to compete in a changing world. From adding instructional time after school and visiting students’ homes as a third grade teacher in Baltimore, to hosting hundreds of community meetings and creating a Youth Cabinet to bring students’ voices into reforming the DC Public Schools, she has always been guided by one core principle: put students first.

In 1997 Rhee founded The New Teacher Project (TNTP) to attract qualified and motivated teachers to more classrooms across the country. Under her leadership, TNTP became a leader in understanding and developing innovative solutions to the challenges of new teacher hiring. As its Chief Executive Officer and President, Rhee partnered with school districts, state education agencies, non-profit organizations and unions to transform the way schools and other organizations recruit, select and train highly qualified teachers in difficult-to-staff schools. Under her leadership, TNTP implemented widespread reform in teacher hiring practices, improving outcomes in Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Miami, New York, Oakland and Philadelphia.

In 2007, Rhee was appointed to lead the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), a school district serving more than 47,000 students in 123 schools. These were among the worst performing schools in the country. Rhee’s efforts resulted in the D.C. school system becoming the only major city system in America to see double-digit growth in both reading and math scores.

Michelle Rhee currently serves on advisory boards for the National Council on Teacher Quality, the National Center for Alternative Certification, and Project REACH of the University of Phoenix’s School of Education.

Jeb Bush is Founder, Chairman of the Board and President of the Foundation for Excellence in Education. He served as the 43rd Governor of Florida, from 1999 through 2007.

During his two terms, Bush championed major reform of education. Florida raised academic standards, required accountability in public schools and created the most ambitious school choice program in the nation. The transformation is underway and the progress is measurable. More students are reading, writing and doing math and science on or above grade level. More high school seniors are earning a diploma and fewer students are dropping out. Florida’s third through 10th grade students are outscoring 60-70 percent of their peers in all other states in both reading and math.

Under his leadership in the late 1990s, the Foundation for Florida’s Future joined forces with the Greater Miami Urban League to establish the state’s first charter school, Liberty City Charter School, in one of the most underserved parts of Miami-Dade County. He also co-authored Profiles in Character, a book profiling 14 of Florida’s civic heroes—people making a difference without claiming a single news headline.

Bush took time out from his successful business career to serve as Florida’s secretary of commerce under Bob Martinez, Florida’s 40th governor, where he promoted the state worldwide. Bush earned a bachelor’s degree in Latin American Affairs from the University of Texas at Austin. Bush and his wife Columba live in Miami and have three grown children. Bush is the son of President George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush.

Dada-Artshow Charity Fundraiser 6/5/11

Sunday, June 5th from 9pm-2am
Dada
Delray Beach

A very special evening in which local art, music, and poetry, combine to support a great cause!

Mr. Malone’s Metaphysical Artshow brings the community together for visual and sonic delights showcasing his latest projects to raise awareness on the grassroots work of Art Studio Miami by donating 50% of the proceeds to this 501c3 Non-Profit organization.
www.artstudiomiami.org
www.dada.closermagazine.com
robertjohnmalone.com

This show escapes two dimensional constrictions through the combination of a visual and atmospheric experience. Mr.Malone’s Paintings bridge a gap between form and dimension with bursts of color and abstract life. Each piece, in his words, is designed with the intentions of helping focus the mind.

Art Studio Miami is a nonprofit organization that truly believes in the power of art as a holistic and empowering tool that engages, educates, and inspires. For at risk youth, Art Studio Miami is a safe location where these children are guided by artists, teachers, and professional mentors who support the student’s education and career development through the integration of creative arts projects and programs.

Every piece purchased is a new opportunity for our students.

Not to mention you can eat amazing food and enjoy drinks,
Please join us for a great time! See attached flyer for details.

To view some of Robert Malone’s work please visit the following link…
http://robertjohnmalone.com/#/home

Shanghai Glamour ICFAC Access to China Closing Fundraiser Gala 5/28/11

Saturday May 28, 2011 6:00 PM
Buena Vista Building
180 NE 39th St. Space 120
Miami, FL 33137

$20 minimum donation at the door!
Reserve your tickets today!

Formed in 2006, the mission of the International Chinese Fine Arts Council is to create global understanding of the Chinese culture through art and music, to promote Chinese arts across th…e world and to educate and expose the general public to contemporary Chinese aesthetic. Overseen by Inez Suen, a curator with footholds in contemporary design and art, as well as China and the United States, the ICFAC fosters a sense of belonging and communication among the Chinese Diaspora on every continent, bridging the vast cultural gaps with the nation’s rich traditions and modern elegance. ICFAC exhibited both crafts and fine art from Taiwan in Miami during Art Basel 2010 and has a new exhibition in partnership with ART LEXING through the end of May entitled, “Access to China”.

ICFAC and ART LEXING Cordially invite you to ….

Shanghai Glamour – An oriental extravaganza! Open Bar from 6pm-9pm. Food catered by the most authentic Chinese restaurant Chu’s Taiwan Kitchen, drinks, music, silent auctions & general merriment extravaganza!

wine from Rolland de by (the best Bordeaux of 2010 )
Taiwan beer
No.1 Japanese plum wine Choya Umeshu
Open bar by Vlada

Music from the amazing video DJ TOM LAROC with an Asian twist
Silent Auction items like … Chinese porcelain collection from Mr & Mrs Tse
Performance art Chin Chih Yang “Love for Japan from US” partial proceed with go to Japan relief funds
All proceeds to benefit ICFAC ongoing arts and cultural programs

Dress code: Shanghai Glamour — this is a benefit so if you have $20, we will accept you and your fashion sense.

Parking options: valet parking available in the design district for $3

FKCNCR Movement Fundraiser with Suenalo at The Stage 6/4/11

FKCNCR Fundraiser Party
Sat, Jun 4, 7:00p.m. – 2:00a.m.
The Stage, Miami, FL, United States
Buy Tickets Online.

FKCNCR – join the movement on June 4th. Doors open at 7:00p.m.
Live Entertainment – DJ Ethics – Silent Auction – Cash Bar: reduced prices on selected specialty drinks.
$20 Pre-sale Tickets / $30 at the Door. Cash Only on the night of the event.

Become part of our family – It’s not a choice, it’s a way of life.

FKCNCR!

Read more here.

Cafeina Hosts Fox Hole Bash To Benefit The Armed Forces Foundation For Memorial Day Weekend 5/28/11

Cafeina Digs In For Memorial Day Weekend, Hosts “Fox Hole” Bash To Benefit The Armed Forces Foundation
Saturday, May 28, 8:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m.
Cafeina
297 Northwest 23rd Street
Miami, FL 33127
305.438.0792

Wynwood lounge honors American service personnel with fireworks, fire dancers and firepower

Cafeina, the Wynwood resto-lounge and art gallery, is proud to host Fox Hole, a special Memorial Day Weekend celebration benefiting The Armed Forces Foundation. On Saturday, May 28, 2011, the Wynwood Art District hotspot invites guests to honor our nation’s fallen soldiers through a spectacle of sight and sound. Patrons will enjoy music by Winter Music Conference DJ Bill Kelly, along with beats by Stingray and DJ A-Train. Indie-rock band Addax will take the stage in the garden. Sword-wielding fire dancers and a sexy burlesque troupe in military fatigues, whose performance will be capped off by a fireworks display, will provide additional firepower.

Admission to the event is $5.00 at the door or free with military identification. All guests will enjoy complimentary “American Flag” shooters from 8 to 9 p.m., along with food and drink specials throughout the evening. Active U.S. military personnel receive complimentary Cherry Bomb shots until 10 p.m. Cafeina will also raffle off a $50.00 bar tab to one lucky guest, with proceeds benefiting The Armed Forces Foundation.

For table reservations, contact info@cafeinamiami.com or call 305.438.0792.

Cafeina is a multi-room resto-lounge and art gallery with a lush outdoor garden. The indoor/outdoor, tapas-style hangout is open Thursday through Saturday from 5:00 p.m. to 3 a.m., and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until 4 p.m. Parking is available. For more information, visit www.cafeinamiami.com.

Gigantic Birthday Party to Celebrate with Homeless of South Florida 6/1/11

Miami Rescue Mission/Broward Outreach Centers will host
a birthday party for the most needy in our community
Wednesday, June 1, 2011 (See Start Times Next To Each Campus Location)
Miami Rescue Mission (3:30 PM – 6:00 PM)
2020 NW 1st Avenue Miami, FL 33127

Broward Outreach Center Hollywood (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
2056 Scott Street Hollywood, FL 33020

Broward Outreach Center Pompano (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
1700 Blount Road Pompano Beach, FL 33069

Miami Rescue Mission – For the over 900 homeless and needy guests expected to be in attendance, they will be thrown a wonderful party complete with decorations, birthday cards, cupcakes and a special giveaway. Live Entertainment during the event will feature Thrive Youth Choir from First United Methodist Church of Atlanta, Georgia as well as the Miami Rescue Mission Regeneration Singers, which is a group comprised of the formerly homeless residents of the Miami Rescue Mission.

Broward Outreach Center Hollywood – Chick-Fil-A of Miramar will be sponsoring the Broward Outreach Center Hollywood celebration, providing sandwiches, coleslaw, a giant birthday cake, balloons, a clown, a DJ as well as some gifts for the homeless in attendance. The Moose Lodge and Generic Depot will be providing the tables and chairs for the event while Ofra Cosmetics will be providing gifts for the homeless women in attendance.

Broward Outreach Center Pompano – With wonderful sponsors such as Whole Foods Market, BB&T as well as Calvary Chapel, there will be live entertainment will be accompanied by great birthday treats, a meal as well as gifts for those 300+ homeless expected to be in attendance.

Miami Rescue Mission/Broward Outreach Centers Director of Development, Marilyn Brummitt, said of the upcoming event, “The homeless people living on the streets usually never have a chance to celebrate their birthdays so we want to bring them together and let them celebrate at a special party created just for them. So no matter when their birthday is, they will be able to celebrate their special day with us at our Gigantic Birthday Bash Party. This is just another way to show them that they are not forgotten and they can get help off the streets.”

Join the Cause and Toast for the Launch of Put On the Shirt by Latin US 6/2/11

New Philanthropic Campaign Joins Forces with Combined Latin Talents to Provide a Shinning and Hopeful Future
June 2nd, 9:00 to 11:00pm.
Spazio Nero Brickell
1421 South Miami Avenue
downtown Miami

Ponte La Camiseta by Latin US Unites with Major Celebrities for its Official Launch that Promises Health and Welfare for Children in Need

With the turn of the century, statistical evidence has shown the valuable asset Latinos add to U.S. society’s advancement. Behind this enriched cultural contribution, a need to highlight the consistent development in the political, economic and social areas, has surfaced. In response, “Ponte la Camiseta (Wear the Shirt) by Latin US” will launch its campaign on June 2nd, 2011.

Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US will celebrate its launch and celebrity video/photos unveiling with a star-studded and insiders-only function at the posh Spazio Nero Brickell, located at 1421 South Miami Avenue in the downtown Miami, on June 2nd, 2011 from 9:00 to 11:00pm. Surrounded by its modern Venetian styled décor and always inviting atmosphere, guests will enjoy complimentary and custom-made Caipirinhas by Leblon Cachaça and cocktails by L’Chaim Kosher Vodka in order to toast this wonderful occasion. In addition, Marger will perform her new single “Efectos Secundarios/Secondary Effects,” written and produced by Marger, Erika Ender and Fernando Rojo, exclusively for this campaign.

Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US is a philanthropic campaign that hopes to offer humanitarian support, monetary assistance and public awareness to five global charities, while creating a lifestyle that positively promotes Latino’s spirit and culture. The purpose of Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US campaign is to come together not only to express, in a collective front, Latino’s talent within the United States, by honoring and celebrating their efforts, but also to promote a fashionable outlet to gather valuable funds. Therefore, starting June 2nd, 2011, Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US t-shirts will be available for purchase at www.pontelacamisetabylatinus.org. Its 9 cotton t-shirts styles, each with their particular encouraging message, will be for sale to the public online only. Its proceeds will go to help aid charities as Rayito de Sol (Colombia) [www.fundacionrayitodesol.org], Educa (Mexico) [www.educa.org.mx] United for Bolivia (Bolivia) www.unitedforbolivia.com, NU3 (Colombia) www.nu3.org.co, RCMA (United States) www.rcma.org and the Movement Saving the Planet with Style. The campaign promises to offer 100% of the earnings from its online t-shirts sales to help Hispanic children in the areas of health care, education, food and nutrition through these global organizations. By several online sources presently available, including a video, a behind the scenes introduction photo shoot through the magical lens of Nick Garcia and powerful social networks via Facebook@Ponte-la-Camiseta-By-Latin-US,Twitter@PLCbyLatinUS. Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US hopes to be able to transmit a positive message while showcasing a wonderful cause.

“Anyone and everyone will be able to help millions of defenseless children that struggle every day, to bring a little sunshine into their lives. Through Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US, we are encouraging the public to put on the shirt and help those in need.” shares Fashion Box Studio Creative Director and inspirational creator of Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US, Elias Maida. “Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US campaign is a past due debt that society has with the Hispanic community. Backed by our efforts and hard work, we hope to remind the U.S. public to recognize and celebrate the talent, work, effort, values and spirit, Latinos are constantly incorporating into this country.” states Latin US President, Carlos Rincon Gallardo.

This project would not be possible thanks to each and every single individual that believed in the limitless possibilities that Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US will bring to many. Each and every one of these talents has volunteered their time and skills to the matter. First and foremost, Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US collective front relies heavily in the valuable collaboration of outstanding Latin celebrities in the United States. This group is created by fifteen acclaimed celebrities as: Vanessa Hauc (Peruvian Host), Sonia Velásquez (Colombian Host), Mónica Noguera (Mexican Host), Maritza Rodriguez (Colombian Actress), Cynthia Olavarria (Puerto Rican Model), Marger (Venezuelan Singer), Gaby Rivero (Mexican Actress), David Chocarro (Argentinean Actor), Melvin Cabrera (Venezuelan Actor), Jason Canela (Cuban-American Actor), Leonardo Corredor (Venezuelan Actor), Quique Usales (Argentinean, TV fashion consultant), Leonardo Rocco (Argentinean Hair Stylist), Paulo Quevedo (Mexican Actor) y Humberto Carrera (Mexican Host).

Furthermore, Ponte la Camiseta by Latin US production counts with the participation of renowned creative enterprises that have made this campaign become a reality. With Blindlight Studios, D’Escoubet Law, P.L., Fashion Box Studio, Innova Hispanic Advertising, La Fabrica Films, Rocco Donna Hair & Beauty Art, and Mandrake Public Relations, as its creative engine, success will surely awaits. For more information please contact Paola De Castro at paola@mandrakepr.com.

LATIN US [ latinos ] is a new movement and lifestyle aimed at honoring, recognizing and celebrating through fashion and entertainment the talent, work, effort, values and achievements of the Latinos that reside in USA. It is a positive way to recognize, divulge and award that enthusiastic and passionate spirit that distinguishes us. It is a way for the world to know us better and find all the good and important things we do. www.latin-us.com

INNOVA is an Advertising and Marketing Agency, specialized in business brands, products and services within the Hispanic Markets in USA and Latin America. INNOVA serves international corporations by placing their products on “top-of the-shelf” and increasing their sales volume, through precise, customized and profitable branding, advertising, communication and marketing campaign. www.innovadg.com

Fashion Box Studio creates marketing platforms, provides product development for established and emerging brands, and also produces fashion lines for both men and women in the United States and Latin America. “Fashion Art Show”, the exclusive women’s clothing line “Equinoccio-Equinoccio” and the “Miami Hair, Beauty & Fashion” are some of their latest fashionable creations. For additional information please visit: www.fashionboxstudion.com

Nick Garcia, founder of Blindlight Studio, focuses his commercial photography work in fashion, lifestyle, interior design and architecture. With over 15 years of successful experience Nick is also a regular contributor of magazines such as Miami Magazine, Florida Trend Magazine, Brickell Magazine and Key Biscayne Magazine, among others. For more information please visit: www.blindlightstudios.com

La Fábrica Films is a production company based in Miami, Florida. It’s been operating for more than 10 years and specializes in commercial production, but also works on films, music video and TV content. As Latins living in the United States, they take pride in working for the Hispanic Market; most of their work can be seen in national Spanish networks and stations. La Fábrica is lead by owner and executive producer, César Ahumada. www.lafabrica.tv

Rocco Donna Hair & Beauty is considered one of the most prestigious and avant-garde beauty salons in South Florida. Located in the heart of the world famous Ocean Drive, it is a temple of beauty that offers an ample services menu and the latest trends in the market. Excellent service and devoted experts truly honor their slogan, “introducing the energy of beauty”, sharing it with their clients providing them with red carpet worthy locks every time. For additional information, please visit www.roccodonna.com

Mandrake Public Relations is a new fashion boutique firm that specializes in searching, representing and providing image consulting to the vast undiscovered raw talent in the fashion industry, especially those new designers that desire to launch their original creations in the United States. The firm focuses not only on the fashion, accessories, but also in the arts, entertainment and lifestyles fields. Mandrake PR offers its clients powerful branding and social networking campaigns, tailored to meet their individual needs. We invite you to visit www.mandrakepr.com

The posh Spazio Nero-Club di Brickell, is the newly renovated addition of Segafredo Brickell. Timed with the burgeoning growth of the Brickell area, Spazio Nero takes Nightclub culture to a whole new level. The only location in Miami to pair cafe, restaurant, lounge and nightclub in one venue. Designed by world renowned Interior Designer Francios Frossar and built with the most impressive sound and lighting systems by both critically acclaimed Infinite Audio Systems and Video Lighting Innovations; Spazio Nero Club Di Brickell is the most talked about hotspot in the downtown Miami/Brickell area. Outfitted in all things noir from the black plush leather couches, to the black marble and stainless steel bar and black crocodile elevated DJ Booth, create an atmosphere that would essentially take the guests of Spazio Nero “out of their daily lifestyles” and into a world where they would become part of the décor – thus, disappearing into the night. www.segafredobrickell.com

Music For Your Heart Foundation Presents You’ve Got Talent 5/31/11

“Music For Your Heart” Foundation Invites You To An Unprecedented Music Event In Miami – “You’ve Got Talent”
Tuesday, May 31th, from 8pm a 1am
VITA by Baoli
1906 Collins Av.
South Beach, FL. 33139.

“Music For Your Heart” Foundation, founded last October 2010, announced today one of the most spectacular events organized in Miami with the name “You’ve Got Talent” that will take place Tuesday, May 31th, from 8pm a 1am, at the exquisite VITA by Baoli.

The event will have 400 Vip guests and the support from acting celebrities like Marjorie de Sousa (Telenovela Sacrificio de Mujer), Priscila Perales (Telenovela Eva Luna), Talina Duclaud (Telenovela Aurora), Raul Izaguirre (Telenovela Perro Amor)…among others.

Also important media professionals like Ileana García (Radio Romance 106.7fm), Maria Laria (“Arrebatados” show from AmericaTeVe), Miguel Ferro (MegaTV), Jose Perez (MegaTV), and Jose Antonio Ponsetti (Radio Caracol) among others will support the event.

Besides them, the event will also count with support of artists, actors, models, designers, stylists, record labels executives, TV producers, Institutions Representatives, etc…all with the same goal: raise money to buy instruments and educational equipment for talented kids related to educational institutions working on sustainable creativity and culture among society.

“The fact that we can help the young and talented musicians of Miami and inspire them to be successful in the music business is a dream come true,” said Ruben Campbell, the founder of “Music For Your Heart” Foundation. “We are currently talking to several artists and celebrities from Spain and Latin America who have shown interest in attending this great event. With so many of them gathering for a charitable cause, we know it will be a night to remember,” said Laura Valero, co-director of “You’ve Got Talent.”

“You’ve Got Talent” will undoubtedly be a historic moment with the participation of celebrities from Spain, Colombia, Venezuela, Mexico, USA and more. Among the confirmed sponsors of the event Savarin Catering, MillerCoors, Nespresso, , Vita by Baoli, VanDykeCafe, to name a few.

To confirm your ticket, participation at Silent Auction or be one of our sponsors, please contact Ruben Campbell at 305-773-2013 or rubencampbell007@gmail.com.

For donations and sponsorship for Music For Your Heart Foundation the account details are Bank Of America account number 229029851493.

For more information about Music For Your Heart Foundation, visit the website www.musicforyourheartfoundation.org or the foundation’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Music-for-Your- Heart-Foundation/211148318902877 or go on Twitter http://twitter.com/MFYHFoundation or contact Ruben Campbell at 305-773-2013 or email rubencampbell007@gmail.com.

Florida Earth Pageants Skate for Soles Disco Style Party and Fundraiser benefiting Running With Sole 5/30/11

Green beauties skate for a good cause
May 30 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Super Wheels Miami
12265 SW 112th Street

Florida Earth Pageants are inviting the community to join them at their annual “Skate for Soles Disco Style” Party and Fundraiser, benefiting Running With Sole, a non for profit organization that collects gently worn and new shoes of all sizes to redistribute to those in need around the world.

The fundraiser event is the idea of 15-year-old Brittney Ronda, Miss Teen Earth Florida 2010 and her project Recycle the Love, a platform she created through the pageant to benefit underprivileged families and children.

The skating party for a good cause will be held at Super Wheels Miami (12265 SW 112th Street) on May 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. and will feature fun activities for all ages and an eco-disco fashion show on skates by the Miss Earth Florida queens.

Admission is $10 and a new or gently used pair of shoes.

Miss Earth is one of the largest pageants in the world and the only dedicated 100 percent to environmental and humanitarian efforts.

For more information, visit www.MissEarthFlorida.com, email info@earthfloridapageants.com or call 1.888.632.1110. For Running with Sole, visit www.Runningwithsole.org

High Heels and Handshakes-a wonderful event for women By Betty Alvarez

High Heels and Handshakes, a monthly networking event created by Christina Ward from Morton’s the Steakhouse and Bonnie Kilpatrick from Fleming’s steakhouse held their second networker for business women on May 20 at Morton’s the Steakhouse in Coral Gables. This event benefitted Women for Women.org, a non-profit organization helping women survivors of war rebuild their lives.

Women in the many business fields joined together to eat delicious appetizers by Morton’s, drink Martini cocktails and best of all meet other aspiring women in South Florida. A video explaining Women for Women.org was played for the guests and they were inspired to help. Christina Ward read an inspirational letter sent to her by her “sponsor sister” who have been in communication back and forth. At the end of the night, raffle prizes were awarded to the attendees and made the guests aware of their dedication to help women grow personally and professionally in their lives.

Even though the group is in its early stages, High Heels and Handshakes are hoping to grow, improve and create a network of like minded inspired individuals. They have partnered with Suited for Success and welcomed anybody with women’s business attire that they no longer use to drop them off and they will deliver it to Suited for Success. This just in: Women for Women International is going to be on the Oprah Winfrey Show on Monday, May 23. Be sure to tune in!

To learn more about High Heels and Handshakes please email highheelsandhandshakes@yahoo.com or visit their facebook page www.facebook.com/highheelsandhandshakes

Photographs by Betty Alvarez

4th Annual Taste Of The Gables 6/2/11

4th Annual Taste Of The Gables
Thursday, June 2nd, 6-8 pm
The Westin Colonnade
180 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL

Taste of the Gables sponosored by the Coral Gables Business Improvement District

Taste samplings from Coral Gables Restaurant Week participants and vote for your favorite dish! 21 and over.

General Admission: $25 in advance/ $35 day of event
VIP Admission: $100 in advance
Buy Tickets Online.

Proceeds will benefit the United Way of Miami-Dade

On Thursday, June 2, from 6 – 8 p.m., foodies will have the chance to cast their vote for the “Best Taste of the Gables” award after sampling various “tastes” from over 20 restaurants participating in Coral Gables Restaurant Week presented by Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.

Taste of the Gables will be held in the historic Rotunda of the Westin Colonnade Hotel. Advance tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at coralgablesrestaurantweek.com. VIP tickets to the all-new 1862 Bacardi Lounge are available at $100 per person and will be limited to the first 100 patrons. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to United Way of Miami-Dade.

Now in its fourth year, Coral Gables Restaurant Week will preview on June 2 following Taste of the Gables and will officially launch on June 6 and run through June 19.

During these two weeks, participating restaurants will offer special three-course lunch and dinner menus at savings of at least 20 percent. Guests (21 years and older) will also have the chance to try the Original BACARDI® Mojito Cocktail or a glass MARTINI® Prosecco wine, the official cocktails of Coral Gables Restaurant Week, at participating restaurants with full bars.

Coral Gables Restaurant Week serves to celebrate the international chefs and venues in Downtown Coral Gables. The two-week culinary event brings together restaurants including Anacapri on Ponce, Angelique Euro Cafe, Coral Gables Ale House, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Fritz & Franz Bierhaus, Gables Diner, Graziano’s Restaurant, Il Grissino, John Martin’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, La Cofradia, Morton’s The Steakhouse, Norman’s 180, Pardo’s Peruvian Cuisine, Por Fin Restaurant & Lounge, Randazzo’s Little Italy, Red Koi Thai & Sushi Lounge, Season 52, Sushi Maki, Talavera Cocina Mexicana and Tarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill.

Photographs of the Annual Art Of Found Objects Celebration Hosted By The Education Fund on 5/20/11

Annual Art Of Found Objects Celebration Hosted By The Education Fund at The Moore Building on Friday, May 20, 2011.  What an amazing event!!!!

The charity auction combines the power of a child’s imagination with the ultimate recycling program. This year the auction will feature unique pieces of art created by Miami-Dade elementary, middle and high-school students and teachers representing close to 50 schools, many in low income neighborhoods. The original works were all crafted from supplies “found” at The Education Fund’s Ocean Bank Center for Educational Materials. The Center is stocked with donated supplies, where more than 15,000 teachers and their students have shopped free of charge for classroom supplies since 1993.

The culinary arts was also under the spotlight, featuring a food prepared by student chefs from Robert Morgan Senior High School’s award-winning culinary arts magnet program. The food was donated from Whole Foods, these students created signature dishes using the recipes provided by chefs Michael Schwartz of Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink, Michelle Bernstein of Michy’s, and Cindy Hutson of Ortinique on the Mile.

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Design House Launch to Benefit the Coral Gables Museum 5/26/11

Designhouse: Female-Owned Boutique Web, Print, And Brand Design Agency Opens In Coral Gables With A Boom
Thursday May 26, 6:30PM-9:30PM
Novecento
121 Alhambra Plaza #100
Coral Gables

Benefit (via voluntary donations and raffle) The Coral Gables Museum. For more information: Designhouse: www.designhousegroup.com |Novecento: www.novecento.com |Coral Gables Museum: www.CoralGablesMuseum.org.

Gretel Vi�as and Liz Rodriguez possess two different backgrounds and two sets of career paths. Yet, this duo has combined their talents and individual skill sets to create a dynamic and unique brand: Designhouse. Coral Gables will officially welcome Designhouse, a boutique web, print, and brand design agency to the �City Beautiful� and the business community overall on Thursday, May 26, 2011. The by invitation event will take place at Novecento located at 121 Alhambra Plaza #100 Coral Gables from 6:30pm-9:30pm with a presentation by Coral Gables Chamber president Mark A. Trowbridge, John O�Rourke III, chairman and Coral Gables Mayor Jim Cason.

Novecento Coral Gables will be the location for this fabulous event taking place next week. Guests can expect to enjoy delicious Novecento hors de oeuvres, Chambord Vodka and Barcelo cocktails, lounge music by DJ Mayner who will create a relaxed vibe while guests network, engage and interact. For those interested in an outdoor smoke, Extravaganza Cigars will be rolling fresh cigars on the terrace. This popular eatery is a perfect location for this to-do as Designhouse is also located in the lovely Alhambra Plaza.

As described by the founders, Designhouse is a �boutique web, print, and brand design agency�. When asked about their new venture, they both smiled and responded: �If you can dream it� we can create it.� Websites, logos, e-marketing, and branding are attacked with a holistic approach to give their clients a leg above the competition. This one-two punch power house design team takes pride in offering clients the personal touch which is what they feel has been missing in the creative world for a long while.The like-minded professionals met, and felt there was a void in the business community. They noticed growing changes and needs in the marketplace as well as a rising trend, a preference for working with boutique firms and local based ones more often times than not. The reason given by proprietors was simple, to get the service that was once paramount in a relationship with an agency but somehow lost during the last few years. Gretel Vi�as and Liz Rodriguez felt they had the perfect recipe as they both poses mind blowing talent combined with easy going personalities that fit the boutique style of business.

Designhouse was a concept born from change in the business world. Specifically, Rodriguez and Vi�as saw that they could provide top agency work and A1 service without charging clients large agency retainers. They have created a structure where the client will be able to gain strategic solutions, visuals and the marketing tools needed to set their company and brand apart from the rest while keeping a solid understanding of that client�s budget and long term goals.

With a great network of partners that are scattered across the map, these ladies have created a unique business model to service clients outside of South Florida. Gretel Vi�as and Liz Rodriguez welcome you to their home, Designhouse.

Orchids in the Park 5/28-29/11

Orchids in the Park
5-28 and 5-29, 2011, 10am – 5pm
Dante Fascell Park
8600 Sw 57th Ave (Red Road)
South Miami
www.orchidmania.org

Please join OrchidMania South Florida, as it hosts the 13th annual Orchids in the Park sale. At this event you’ll find an array of beautiful orchids of all kinds at great prices, including rare and exotic species. In addition, the world renouned “Orchid Doctor” will be on hand to answer all your orchid related questions, and there will be orchid potting and mounting demonstrations througout both days. Proceeds of this event benefit Project Cradle, an affiliate volunteer program at the University Of Miami Miller School Of Medicine that provides assistance to children and adolescent with HIV/AIDS in Miami-Dade County.

Beautiful orchids, a beautiful cause and great prices!
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Latin Auxiliary hosts annual Summer Luncheon and Boutique 6/15/11

The Latin AuxilIary of Douglas Gardens Presents its Summer Luncheon & Boutique Honoring Isaac and Nieves Olemberg Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients
Wednesday, June 15, 10:30am to 2:30pm
Miami Jewish Health Systems – Ruby Auditorium
5200 NE 2nd Avenue
Miami, FL 33137

COST: Tickets cost $54 per person
RSVP: To register, please contact Suzanne Hafkin at (305) 762-1382 or SHafkin@mjhha.org for more information.

Isaac and Nieves Olemberg will receive the Latin Auxiliary’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Latin Auxiliary of Douglas Gardens, a group of Miami Jewish Health Systems supporters, will present its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Isaac and Nieves Olemberg at its 2011 Summer Luncheon & Boutique. Aside from a fabulous lunch, this year’s Boutique will be filled with unique vendors offering handbags, jewelry, plants, watches and more at great prices. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Latin Auxiliary-sponsored Music Therapy Program at Miami Jewish Health Systems.

RA Sushi Presents Seventh Annual Nicky’s Week 5/29-6/1/11

RA Sushi Presents Seventh Annual Nicky’s Week to be Held May 29 through June 4
RA Sushi in South Miami’s Nicky’s Week event line-up includes:
Sunday, May 29
Nicky’s Week Launch Party
8 p.m. to midnight
Event to celebrate no work the next day due to Memorial Day holiday. Party to coincide with the restaurant’s popular Sunday Flying Fish Lounge happy hour featuring food and drink specials all night. Special guest DJ will keep guests on their feet.

Saturday, June 4
Nicky’s Week Closing Party
7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Live DJ. Food and drink specials. Raffle benefitting St. Jude will close and winners will be announced.

Proceeds from select menu items benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

RA Sushi in South Miami will host its seventh annual “Nicky’s Week” fundraiser Sunday, May 29 through Saturday, June 4 to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, the nation’s top children’s cancer research center. The Scottsdale-based restaurant and bar will donate 100 percent of the proceeds from the sale of a variety of menu items and beverages to St. Jude to help support the hospital’s lifesaving mission.

The special Nicky’s Week menu includes: Edamame, Tootsy Maki, Shrimp Nigiri, Pork Gyoza, Tuna Tataki, Chicken Yakitori and select beverages.

All 25 RA Sushi locations in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, Nevada and Texas will participate in the fundraiser. RA Sushi in South Miami is located at 5829 SW 73rd Street, Miami, FL.; 305.341.0092

In addition, guests who make a monetary donation to St. Jude on their check will receive a ticket to enter into RA Sushi in South Miami’s week-long raffle. Prizes include gift certificates to SEE Eyewear, bottle service at WALL South Beach, an overnight stay at legendary Hotel Breakwater on Ocean Drive, spa experience at mySpa at InterContinental Miami, three-month gym membership at Equinox, luxury accessory from Capretto Shoes and much more. Winning tickets will be drawn during Nicky’s Week closing party on Sat., June 4.

HeArt for Recovery Benefit in Delray Beach 5/21/11

Sunset House, Creative City Collaborative, Artist Michael Perez / Gallery 212 Miami
Present: HeArt For Recovery To Benefit Sunset House
Saturday, May 21, 2011 from 7-10pm
Arts Garage
180 NE 1st Street
Delray Beach, FL 33444
Tickets [$20 Presale].
Find our event on Facebook.

Join us as we celebrate in the beautiful City of Delray Beach, a Multi-Media Art Show Extravaganza to benefit Sunset House. Enjoy live performances, music, wine, soda, creative catering, high fashion and glamour photo shoots, tango and dancing, international talent and much, much more at the amazing Arts Garage space in the heart of The Pineapple Grove Arts District in Delray Beach.

$20 tickets in advance through Brown Paper Tickets, $25 at the door. Bring your business card for $20 at the door and you will be entered into our door prize drawing as well as be eligible to vote for your favorite art piece or performance, for one lucky artist’s or performer’s chance to win major exposure and publicity with Publicist Caitlin E. Slayback for a Second Saturday exhibition in gallery212 Contemporary Art Gallery in Miami with Artist Michael Perez. Take your chances on a unique Raffle and compete to win your favorite raffle items that include services and contemporary art pieces. Fine Art and rare collectible pieces will be available at incredible prices; there are so many ways to enjoy this event and go home with new treasures, while supporting an organization that does imperative work to help the people in the community who need it most.

Sunset House is a 501(c)(3) Non-profit substance abuse treatment center for men offering an extended care residential addiction treatment program in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

The Mission Of Sunset House:
· This event Benefits Sunset House which is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) Florida Department of Children and Families licensed Level IV treatment center for men recovering from chemical dependency. Our mission is to safely and effectively transition our residents back into their communities with all of the tools necessary to maintain long-term, meaningful sobriety.
· What makes the Sunset House Program stand out among many other extended care facilities is the fact that we offer a highly structured environment that emphasizes client accountability and discipline. Our three to four month Program will see clients through a number of crucial real-world obstacles faced by the newly recovering individual. Money-management, job- and living-skills, and 12 Step enculturation are just some of the focal points of treatment at Sunset House.
· Another special feature of Sunset House is affordability. Some potential clients and their families cannot gather the resources required by many extended care programs. At Sunset House, 25% of client fees are subsidized through grant-writing and fundraising efforts. For $300 per week, our clients receive weekly group and individual therapy with a credentialed therapist, individualized treatment plans that are reviewed and updated throughout the course of treatment, auricular acupuncture to assist in stress-management and detoxification, nutritionist consultations, and 24/7 staff supervision and support. Our doors are always open to clients and their families, and people are viewed as people – not revenue.

The Arts Garage is a multi-disciplinary cultural hub for visual artists, musicians, performers, film presenters and arts educators. The mission of the Arts Garage is to collaborate with emerging artists and cultural innovators to facilitate an exchange of art and ideas and to present cutting-edge, interdisciplinary performances and exhibitions.

Creative City Collaborative, a nonprofit organization created to build the cultural infrastructure that celebrates Delray Beach as a creative, authentic, and intimate City, is tasked with implementing the City’s cultural plan, adopted by the City Commission in 2006 and CRA Plan’s Arts Based Economic Development Program. Major funding for the Creative City Collaborative is provided by the Delray Beach CRA, a local government agency that works to eliminate blighted conditions, foster redevelopment, and promote economic growth within downtown Delray Beach and much of the surrounding older residential and commercial areas.

Talent/Sponsors: Artists Michael Perez, Ed Ellers, Lea Vendetta, Doug Kinchley, Hazel Fimmano, Ashley Curtis; Art Photography by Russell Levine, Rudy Perez; High Fashion and Glamour Photo Shoots by Jonathan Dvoretz, Fred Love, Sean Murdock; Tango and Dance Performances by The Fred Astaire Dance Studio West Palm Beach; Original Music by John Epstein on the Organ performing Live Blues and Jazz and a Vocal Performance by Matthew Farmer. Creative Catering. Tickets by Brown Paper Tickets. Co-Hosted by Amy Pasquantonio of Sunset House and Michael Perez in representation of gallery212 Contemporary Art Gallery, Miami.

Go Green Fashionista and Expo 6/25/11

Go Green Fashionista & Expo 2011
Saturday, June 25th 6pm
Mia at Biscayne
20 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL 33132

Silent Auction includes art by Romero Britto, Tagua & Orange Peel Jewelry by Catalina Mora, certificates, items from ALL eco friendly designers,vendors and more!!
Free Raffle ticket for guests that donate to ANY charity!
Tickets: www.gogreenfashionista2011.eventbrite.com

Fab C., Miami Social Media Group, Romero Britto Art Gallery, and The Fashion Designers Expo cordially invites you to “Go Green Fashionista” 2011, an annual event going 3 years strong in honoring eco-friendly fashions and styles ranging from vintage clothing to original eco-friendly accessories and wardrobe vamping. “Go Green Fashionista” will be an evening of high fashion at its smartest. With the help of these new era designers, Stylist’s will assist and showcase along with the designer’s on our mission to have others to be inspired in this new way of style, and to provide another utilizing fashion idea, while lessening their expenses. A Special Japan tribute showcasing the uniqueness of Japanese fashion , styled by Celebrity Stylist Joey Rolon, pulling pieces from his South Beach store “Funky Sexy Couture”. Rolon is known for enhancing fashion with a cutting edge, styling for fashionista’s such as Lady Gaga, Pink, Lil’ Kim, Ciara, Madonna and more. Rolon has his styles featured in high fashion magazines such as Elle, W, and of course Ocean Drive to name a few. You can also catch styles by Joey Rolon worn by celebs on many red carpet appearances. He is also behind the creation of the famous decorated eye wear glasses worn by “Jersey Shore” cast member Snooki.

Fashion Showcase will also include: RAX Collection, jewelry and accessories that are Earth friendly and handcrafted with natural materials from the environment; Inta Gansone’s funky style dresses made out of newspaper and other recycled products; Haitian Hand Bag Designer, Adjanie Muller, embodied by the environment with natural materials and great influence from her Caribbean lifestyle. You can find her collection in various stores in South Florida. AshikoBela by Jessica Jimenez designs exquisite handcrafted one-of-a-kind frames with designs adorned with reused chains, lace, studs, and crystals, with her personal artist (Joel Arellano) to hand-paint to transition their style. Vintage fashion is also one of the most popular fashion forward steps to going green. Enjoy fashion showcase filled with styles ranging from the 60’s to the 90’s with a bit of today’s edge by RagHouse:Vintage Indie Fashion. Joining “Go Green Fashionista” this year will be Miami’s own, The Fashion Designers Expo who will be coordinating the entire fashion show production.

Guests attending will be able to sample eco-friendly products as well as visit different vendor booth presenting their “green” products such as natural soaps, beauty products, skin care amongst others. Complimentary organic food, vegetarian appetizers, natural juices, fruits, and more!! Also enjoy Organic Vodka tasting inside!

This year, our eco friendly fashion designer’s will each represent a charity organization dealing with the environment, clothing the poor, donations, amongst others and help. ALL guests will be able to help their favorite designer by helping them in fundraising and donations to their chosen charity, including relief efforts for Japan and Haiti. Guests will also be provided with information on all organizations for their support. Enjoy a night of eco friendly fashion showcasing and art, while helping each with the awareness of their charity.
www.habitat.org
www.friendsoftheorphans.org
www.oglhaiti.com
www.thebigblueandyou.com
www.peaceloveinternational.org
www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com
www.miamirescuemission.com
www.fredomisnotfree.com

Base Paint The Auction Event 5/25/11

Base Paint | The Auction
A Contemporary Art Auction Event & Curated Exhibition
To Help Raise Funds To Support The Secondary School At L’athletique D’haiti Where Base Paint Tents Will Be Installed
Wednesday, May 25th from 7:00 PM – 11:00PM
*Silent Auction closes at 10:00PM
Ideobox Artspace
2417 North Miami Avenue (Wynwood)
Miami, Florida 33137
www.ideobox.com

Ideobox Artspace, SaludArte Foundation, Fundación Manos del Sur, Step by Step Foundation, and Curators Antuan & Tanya Brillembourg join forces as they prepare for Base Paint | The Auction event to benefit the Base Paint Project. The tents have arrived in Haiti and will be installed this summer as part of a secondary school on the property of L’Athletique d’Haiti. The funds raised will help to finance the new school’s operational costs and ensure the continuation of the work that was begun with the Base Paint Tents. The contemporary art auction and curated exhibition is open to the public with complimentary admission.

Base Paint | The Auction will feature over 45 artists that have generously donated works of art to help raise these funds. For a list of artists and auction pieces, visit www.basepaint.org. While guests view the silent auction and place bids at Ideobox Artspace, the space will host a variety of refreshments and entertainment. On hand to set the vibe will be famed band Miami City Mix and later in the evening DJ Umber Bandi-Ville will be mixing beats. Artist Leni Ibarguengoytia will unveil her event installation on crate boxes which will act as lounge areas. Bacardi cocktails sponsored by a private donor will be available to quench the thirst of those who savor Diego’s Andalucia Tapas & Deli’s paella and Zucchero Ristorante Bistro’s hors d’oeuvres. Robert Duval, founder of L’Athletique d’Haiti, will be at the auction to announce a special thank you to everyone who has participated in the project including the artists, sponsors and volunteers. Duval will be available for interviews regarding the project, his school, and Haiti. For more information on the foundation, visit www.lathletiquedhaiti.org.

*Metered parking is available on North Miami Avenue and side-streets. Valet is also available.

The artwork will be on view at Ideobox Artspace until June 30, 2011 on Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Saturdays by appointment. For appointments, please contact Alexandra Gauthier at 305.576.9878 or alexandragauthier@ideobox.com.

Food trucks join local chefs at Feeding South Florida for service day 5/19/11

Food Trucks To Join Local Miami-Dade, Broward Chefs During Service Day At Feeding South Florida
Thursday, May 19, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Feeding South Florida
2501 SW 32 Terrace
Pembroke Park, FL 33023
Tel. 954-518-1818

No charge to participate in service day. However, anyone who purchases Taste of the Nation tickets that day will receive a 20% discount.

Community outreach project to kickoff two of South Florida’s premier culinary benefits, Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation Fort Lauderdale & Miami

Local chefs will take a short break from their kitchens to fill boxes with food for the hungry at Feeding South Florida to kickoff this year’s Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation Miami and Fort Lauderdale events. In support of this great effort, several Food Trucks will participate as well by selling lunch and donating partial proceeds back to the organization. So far chef participants who will work in the Feeding South Florida warehouse include Chef Allen’s, Inc., Joe’s Stone Crab, Fairmont Turnberry Isle, China Grill, BRIO Tuscan Grille, Blue Tree Café and Catered Bliss, and others will be announced closer to Thursday.

The public is invited to play a part in the service day, which will also include a DJ from Mike Sipe Entertainment.

South Florida’s premier culinary benefits return to the Broward County Convention Center on Thursday, June 2 and then to the legendary Fairmont Turnberry Isle resort on Thursday, July 7. All ticket sales will be contributed to Share Our Strength, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization working to end childhood hunger in America.

During the community service day, chefs will tour Feeding South Florida’s Broward headquarters and will spend a couple hours assisting the distribution center’s staff and volunteers with sorting donated food items and checking for expiration dates, dents, damages and leaks.

Each year, Miami-Dade and Broward’s hottest chefs and mixologists donate their time, talent and passion during Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation Miami with one goal in mind: to raise the critical funds needed to end childhood hunger. There are over 17 million kids in America with 637,000 of this total in Florida – that’s 1 in 4 children—who do not know when or where they’ll have their next meal. In South Florida, funds are distributed to a number of beneficiaries like Feeding South Florida, which is the state’s largest food bank. For more information and to purchase tickets for Taste of the Nation, call 1-877-26-TASTE or visit www.strengthflorida.org.

With the increase in demand for food, Feeding South Florida is always looking for volunteers. For more information on how you can help, visit www.feedingsouthflorida.org.

Photographs from the 2011 Beauty Bash U.N.I.T.E. at the Pink Room on 5/14/11

2011 Beauty Bash U.N.I.T.E. at the Pink Room on Saturday, May 14, 2011.  This years Beauty Bash benefited Susan G. Komen for the Cure.  U.N.I.T.E, (Unity Now is a Tomorrow for Everyone) annual event and its founders, Edward J. Oberle and co-founder Matias Schwarz, brought South Florida’s beauty, fashion and entertainment industry together for a good cause.  Jo Blackwell-Preston, an Emmy Award winning Colorist, hosted the night and Tiffany Miranda, American Idol’s Contestant, performed live.

The Pyure Aveda Team provided all hair and make up for the both runway shows . Designer Jacqueline Quinn 2011 Renewable Collection featuring a Socialite in a dress made with Products provide by Pfizer Pharmaceuticals and other models will be wearing renewable resources form Emmediciotto Mia Color and Crest Combs to name a few of the 20 pieces in her collection.  Cesar Rosario Collection direct from Fashion Week.

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RW3 Sizzlin Summer Beach Body Boot Camp Fundraiser 5/21/11

RW3 Sizzlin Summer Beach Body Boot Camp Fundraiser
May 21st, 2011, 9am
Miami Beach
South Pointe Park
rw3fitness.com

San Diego Celebrity Personal Trainer Ray Wetterlund III will be throwing a kick butt complementary beach workout. The goal is to get people off the couch, inspired and get moving!

Team unity will be the focus, performing full body movements, calorie crushin it and having some fun!

Donations encouraged and all proceeds will go to the Susan Komen breast cancer foundation.

What can you expect from this 1,000+ Calorie Boot Camp?
[tubepress video=”50ANS91zUv8″]

Summer Movie Shorts Fundraiser 5/20/11

Summer Movie Shorts Fundraiser
May 20, 2011, 7-11pm
Miami Beach Botanical Gardens
2000 Convention Center Dr.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
www.miamisurfrider.org
How Much: Advance Tickets are $8, and $10 at the door.

Surfrider Miami Chapter Presents Summer Shorts Fundraiser

Surfrider Miami is pleased to announce its May 20, 2011 Fundraiser, Summer Shorts Movie Night. . The event will take place at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens at 7pm. Food will be served by Jefe’s Original Food Taco Truck, Kona Beer, and Barefoot Wines. Featured film shorts include, Sorry, We’re Open with SUPERbrand Team and Moments with Quiksilver’s A-list Team. Events include the presentation by Wholefoods of monies collected during their April 6 Community Giving Day, live acoustic music by Mike Maytin, and Raffle prizes from select sponsors. Please visit www.miamisurfrider.org for advance tickets.

Food By Jefe’s Fish Taco Truck, Barefoot Wines, Kona Beer, GREAT Raffle, Apple Store GIft Certificate, Roam Rides Vespa Rentals, NEW Surfboard, Ipad, many many more

3rd Annual Marissa Nestor Invitational Presented by The Beauty Prescription 5/21/11

3rd Annual Marissa Nestor Invitational Presented by The Beauty Prescription
Saturday, May 21, Event begins at 8:00 a.m.
Crandon Park Tennis Center
Key Biscayne
www.ucpsouthflorida.org

Registration Costs:
Single Entry: $85.00
Doubles Entry (two players): $150.00

Don’t Want to Play, But Join in on all the other fun:
Adults: $50.00
Children: $15.00
For more information on how you can get involved or become a sponsor, please contact Jessica Dominguez at (305) 325-9018

Join Eva Ritvo, M.D., co-author of The Beauty Prescription & Jason Starkman, Owner of Epicure Gourmet Market & Cafe as they host the 3rd Annual Marissa Nestor Invitational presented by The Beauty Prescription, benefiting United Cerebral Palsy of South Florida.

Event Registration includes:
Breakfast and lunch
Tennis tournament in Division A and Division B format
Singles & Doubles
ProAm competition
Awards Ceremony
Silent Auction/Raffle
& much more!
Finals will be played at Stadium Court!

Sponsored by: The Beauty Prescription, Epicure Gourmet Market & Cafe, BNY Mellon Wealth Management, Park Shore Pharmacy, Waste Management, SocialMiami.com, Galderma, USTA Florida

Singles, Sushi, and Salsa Japan Fundraiser Hosted by MiamiMatch and IronFlower Fitness 5/13/11

MiamiMatch & IronFlower Fitness invite you to Singles, Sushi and Salsa
Friday, May 13, 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm
IronFlower Fitness
7300 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL 33138
RSVP: Pre-purchase tickets by calling IronFlower Fitness at 305.640.5270 or at www.IronFlowerFitnessMiami.com

An Evening of Singles in Miami giving back to Japan earthquake victims. Singles, Sushi, and Salsa Japan Fundraiser Hosted by MiamiMatch and IronFlower Fitness

Singles, Sushi and Salsa will be a FUN night of Salsa lessons with Nelson Fritz, featuring beats DJ Pipo, naked sushi samplings from Moonchine and cocktails by Gold Coast Beverage. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for surprise gift certificates from local businesses. Fifty percent of all proceeds from the evening will be donated to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, an organization that provides shelter, food, counseling and other services for disaster victims. Condom USA has donated condoms to promote safe sex. MiamiMatch’s first social philanthropic event for singles, a Valentine’s Day Party for over 100 homeless children at the Community Partnership for the Homeless Shelter in Miami’s Omni area, was a tremendous success.

MiamiMatch is a matchmaking service for selective Miami singles looking for an opportunity to connect in a more meaningful way. MiamiMatch creates events and a social atmosphere for singles to mix and mingle while giving back to a charitable organization. Singles in South Florida with kind hearts who are giving individuals will have the opportunity to meet other like minded singles through our MiamiMatch network. MiamiMatch helps others in the community who are less fortunate and generates opportunities to bring kind hearted singles to meet each other. MiamiMatch also provides dating and relationship coaching, Mock Dating and our unique “Dater Rater”. The MiamiMatch “Dater Rater” gives members the chance to hear feedback on how they rate on the dating scale. The owner of MiamiMatch, Alana Gissen, is a Licensed Clinical Therapist and a Sex Therapist who, along with her team of relationship and sex experts, work with client’s relationship issues. The MiamiMatch team focuses on individuals’ strengths in dating and helps clients enhance their best attributes.

Public Allies Miami annual fundraiser Leaders in Bloom 5/26/11

Public Allies Miami is hosting its annual fundraiser “Leaders in Bloom”
May 26, 2011, 6 p.m.
Fairchild Botanic Tropical Garden
Coral Gables , FL
www.catalystmiami.org
www.publicallies.org

The flourishing gardens will set the stage for this fun community event.
$25.00 Tickets may be purchased at the door or via Paypal.

Public Allies Miami is a community service and leadership training organization, and a program of The Human Services Coalition/Catalyst Miami. Public Allies Miami’s goal is to improve the Miami area by placing young people in its non-profit organizations for 10 month apprenticeships. These young people work to develop non -profit leadership skills while increasing the capacity of Miami’s non- profit organizations. Public Allies Miami believes that everyone can lead while making a difference.

This event will raise funds to continue to provide social services to Miami residents who need them most, in the areas of healthcare, affordable housing, afterschool programming; tutoring, youth mentoring and environmental education. At the event Public Allies and Alumni will speak about their nonprofit and leadership development experience, as well as the importance of serving their community. Money raised at the event will go directly to the costs of sponsoring the Allies and help the organization continue to change our community for the better.

Social Sign Up 5/25/11

Social Sign Up
5/25/11, 8:00 pm
Bar 721
721 Lincoln Lane
Miami Beach, FL 33139
www.abilityexplosion.org

Please come out and join us for our 2nd Social Sign Up Event. We are growing and would like to invite you to join us and help us grow. For every new email we get you will receive a free drink ticket, so tell your friends and lets party the night away!

Ability Explosion is a weeklong series of special events held in historic Miami Beach and created for the enjoyment of the entire community. From “Lights Out Miami Beach” (A Dining in the dark experience) to the 5k Run, the mission of Ability Explosion is to celebrate the ABILITIES of people living with Disabilities, to encourage their acceptance by the entire community and to promote innovations that will improve their lives.

Toast to Awareness Wine Tasting 6/3/11

Friday June 3, 2011 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
2525 Ponce De Leon Boulevard
Coral Gables, FL 33134

Please join us for a delicious Wine Tasting with paired Hors D’oeuvres

At the beautiful wine bar at
Fleming’s in Coral Gables

All proceeds go towards Family Resource’s Center’s Back to School On-Track campaign
to raise funds for backpacks and school supplies for children living in foster care.

Tickets $30 Online or at the Door

Silent Art Auction benefitting UNICEF 5/21/11

Silent Art Auction benefitting UNICEF
May 21st, 7 p.m.-10 p.m.
Aesthetic Gallery
2 N.E. 40th St.
Miami,FL 33137

You can help us make a difference!
Dr. Gabriel Salloum asks that you plan on joining us May 21st, 2011 for a silent art auction featuring over 10 local Miami artists. All proceeds from the auction will go directly to the UNICEF Tap project. Opening bids will vary and everyone is welcome! Amazing fact: $1 provides 40 days of clean drinking water for one child. Mark your calendar and join us in making a difference. For more information on UNICEF Tap, www.tapproject.org

Run to Home Base Fundraising Event 5/12/11

Thursday May 12th, 6pm-8pm.
Chophouse Miami
300 S. Biscayne Blvd
Miami, FL 33131

$10 Admission Gets You Your First Drink And 1 Raffle Ticket For A Chance To Win Prizes.

Daniel Stuart and Danshappyhour.Com are teaming up to raise money for the Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Home Base Program.

The Run to Home Base will honor heroic veterans that have endured head trauma while serving, and help raise much needed funds for the Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Home Base Program.

I will be running a unique 9K fundraising run through scenic Boston ending with an unforgettable experience of crossing “home base” (plate) at historic Fenway Park in Boston Mass on May 22, 2011.

Miami Light Project presents Dance Your @$$ Off 5/21/11

Miami Light Project presents Dance Your @$$ Off
Saturday, May 21 at 9:00PM
The Light Box at Goldman Warehouse
404 NW 26 street
Miami, FL 33127

Dance Party & Fundraiser

Featuring guest DJs, giveaways and wild performances, this wild dance party will allow you to cut loose and have a blast- raising money for Miami Light Project’s arts programs!

A Taste of South Beach to benefit the Sabina Merlino Memorial Fund By Betty Alvarez

An evening of culinary delights at South Beach’s Red Steakhouse, hosted by the Breakwater Hotel benefitted a great cause…The Sabina Merlino Memorial Fund. The gathering took place at the restaurant’s Roof Top Lounge which featured great food, music and some of the stunning views of South Beach. A silent auction also took place in which art designs, beauty enhancements, and other items were up for bids.

On July 1, 2008, Sabina Merlino lost her brave fight against lung cancer. She was a vibrant individual-a mother, a friend and a businesswoman. She dedicated much of her life to helping and caring for others.

The Sabina Merlino Memorial Fund is dedicated to giving cancer patients access the latest and best medical treatments despite their financial limitations. For more information please visit www.smmfund.org

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

Fashionably Conscious Fundraiser for Coconut Grove Cares The Barnyard 5/13-14/11

Friday, May 13 from 6-9pm: VIP Preview Sale and Happy Hour
Saturday, May 14 from 10-5pm: All-day sale
Shops of Mayfair
3390 Mary Street
Coconut Grove

Fashionably Conscious, Miami’s Premier Fashion Fundraiser for Coconut Grove Cares’ The Barnyard, Returns for its Fourth Year, Expanding With Men’s items

The highly anticipated annual Fashionably Conscious fundraiser, featuring donated designer items from the coveted closets of Miami’s leading socialites and CEOs is back. This year’s expanded host committee includes Raysa Fanjul, Darlene & Jorge Perez, Edgardo and Ana Cristina Defortuna, Margarita Codina, Karla Dascal, Laura Buccellati, Brian Ehrlich, Lourdes Jofre-Collett, Mark Ferrari, Amy Hollub, Sue Kronick, Alan Randolph, Debra Scholl, Jolie Souto, Susanna Shubin, Annie Vasquez, Kim Wood, and more. Collections already include items from Prada, Armani, Christian Dior, Emmanuel Ungaro, Jimmy Choo, Trina Turk, Elie Tahari and vintage Besty Johnson, along with a brand new Tricia Fix gown. All clothing and accessories will be on sale to guests at discounted prices, ranging from $1 to $500.

The weekend event will kick off with a Friday VIP Preview Sale at a $25 entrance fee, granting first access to fashions, gift bags, libations sponsored by Peroni and Southern Wine & Spirits, and a one-of-a-kind space layout designed by KARLA Conceptual Event Experiences. Saturday’s all-day sale has a reduced $10 entrance fee, with a “Guilt-y Pleasure” candy station from Gilt City and sponsorships from POP Chips, Café Bustelo, Shops at Mayfair and The Fashionsta Boutique. All proceeds will go directly to fund Coconut Grove Cares’ The Barnyard, which offers free after-school and summer programs for over 250 children, and provides a much-needed safe haven for the West Grove community.

*Show proof of purchase from sale and get free glass of wine with meal at Spartico restaurant at Mayfair Hotel & Spa May 13-14.

Event Chair: Annette Lopez; Event Manager: Liza Walton
Executive Committee: Maria Eugenia Baco, Ali Codina, Monica DeFortuna, Alexandra Gonzalez, Cristobal Gonzalez, & Marcia Martinez

For more information on The Barnyard and its many charitable services, please visit www.coconutgrovecares.org or call (305) 446-6216.
Please contact fashionablyconscious@gmail.com for any assistance.

Photographs of Overtown Music Project Gospel Brunch Program on 5/7/11

Overtown Music Project To Host A Gospel Brunch Program at the Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church Overtown on Saturday, May 7, 2011.

Overtown Music Project is a two year old non-profit organization that celebrates the music, history and spirit of Overtown. They are dedicated to the area’s rich history in music. OMP shines a light on the different genres of music that once made Overtown’s integrated nightclubs the rhythmic epicenter of musical Miami. Having created a series of successful events in the past that have attracted about 500 or more people, OMP is in production on a documentary and is also working on the creation of a jazz and blues residency in Overtown to create opportunities for musicians who live in the area today with a blues and jazz residency.

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42BELOW Vodka and Bacardi Team Up and Raise Big for 150 Mile MS Bike Ride 5/14-15/11

May 14, 2011 at 7:00 a.m. – May 15, 2011
Homestead-Miami Speedway
1 Speedway Boulevard
Homestead, FL 33035-1500

42BELOW Vodka (42below.com) and Bacardi to team up to spin out Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for the third-year running in the 25th Anniversary of the Zimmerman MS Bike Ride. The 150-mile ride to fight MS is Florida’s largest charity bike tour and, together with eight-year partner, Bacardi, are looking to set a new standard in corporate social responsibility. To date, the Bacardi cyclists are leading the way in terms of participants, 290+ riders strong, as well as fundraising with $107,000 raised. When the two day trek concludes, Bacardi hopes to reach their goal of $140,000 toward research, programs and services to support the 6,000 South Floridians affected by multiple sclerosis.

Eight-year MS race veteran Claudette Halluk, Bacardi’s Director of Business Development, has worked hard to garner interest and participation from Bacardi employees and others in the community is excited about her teams efforts, “I’m so proud of Bacardi, 42BELOW, and the individual efforts of my teammates that make this a successful event every year,” said Claudette. “Because we can fight this disease by simply riding a bike and because we have chosen to help thousands of people through a contribution to the MS Bike Tour, every year we come one step closer to ending MS,” she added.

The MS Bike Ride is Florida’s premier and most exciting charity cycling event featuring an estimated 2,500 cyclists will make the two-day, 150-mile journey from the Maroone Start/Finish Village at Homestead-Miami Speedway to the 42BELOW Village in Key Largo and back as part of the Zimmerman MS Bike Ride Presented by Mack Cycle and Fitness featuring the $25,000 Challenge.

Once all riders arrive at the park, they will celebrate in true 42BELOW fashion with tasty cocktails, great food, and entertainment. Riders can either camp for free at the park or make hotel accommodations. After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, the riders will return back to the Speedway on May 15th for the finale where dedicated volunteers will cheer them across the finish line and present them with a medal. Rest stops will be available every 4 – 9 miles with food, drinks, first aid, bike repair, fun themes and more.

Annual Art Of Found Objects Celebration Hosted By The Education Fund 5/20/11

May 20 at 7 p.m.
The Moore Building
4040 NE 2nd Avenue
Miami Design District

For tickets or more information on this event, please call 305-892-5099 ext 23, or visit the website.

Major sponsors of the event include Ocean Bank, The Children’s Trust, Whole Foods, Bacardi, Dacra and more.

Proceeds will benefit Arts programs in Miami-Dade County Public Schools

The most extraordinary arts and education event of the season is here! The Education Fund’s Annual Charity Auction “The Art of Found Objects” will take place at The Moore Building in the Miami Design District on May 20 at 7 p.m. This exclusive art and children’s education devotee event will showcase more than 200 one-of-a-kind artworks created by Miami-Dade County public school students and teachers. The event will feature live music by the New World School of the Arts and an epicurean feast with local celebrity chefs, as well as bids on exclusive items and luxury vacation packages.

The charity auction combines the power of a child’s imagination with the ultimate recycling program. This year the auction will feature unique pieces of art created by Miami-Dade elementary, middle and high-school students and teachers representing close to 50 schools, many in low income neighborhoods. The original works were all crafted from supplies “found” at The Education Fund’s Ocean Bank Center for Educational Materials. The Center is stocked with donated supplies, where more than 15,000 teachers and their students have shopped free of charge for classroom supplies since 1993.

This year also marks The Education Fund’s 25th anniversary. To celebrate, The Education Fund is honoring 25 local leaders who are all products of the Miami-Dade County public schools, showing what a public education can do for you! Honorees include the new head of Jackson Health System, a college president, the founder of Sushi Maki, two Congresswomen, a plastic surgeon and 19 others who have all achieved success.

This year, the auction will also spotlight the culinary arts, featuring a gourmet feast prepared by student chefs from Robert Morgan Senior High School’s award-winning culinary arts magnet program. With a charitable donation of food from Whole Foods, these junior chefs have created signature dishes using the recipes provided by respected chefs Michael Schwartz of Michael’s Genuine Food and Drink, Michelle Bernstein of Michy’s, and Cindy Hutson of Ortinique on the Mile.

For 25 years, The Education Fund has acted on the belief that the quality of our public schools must be the top priority for our community. Working side-by-side with the private sector, The Education Fund has raised more than $38 million to support and improve our public schools with an emphasis on designing and implementing innovative initiatives. The goal is to ensure that every child learns and succeeds. The Education Fund’s portfolio of programs focuses exclusively on Miami-Dade public schools, benefiting all 390 schools, all 20,000+ teachers and all 340,000 students.

Photographs of Life is Art River of Art at The Surfcomber on 5/6/11

Life is Art River of Art at The Surfcomber on Friday, May 6, 2011.  Thank you all for coming out to Life is Art’s River of Art.  We had some amazing South Florida Artist work on display; Paula Turk, Agatha Green, Carlos G. Scott, Carol P Kingsley, Mikayla Castro, Diana Contreras and Nora Meyer.  We had some awesome music by DJ A.K.  Special thanks to the Surfcomber for providing the appetizers.

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Zumba Fundraiser for Alfred Iglesias 5/21/11

Zumba Fundraiser for Alfred Iglesias
Saturday, May 21, 2011, 1:00 pm
Fit by Haydee Studio
1790 NW 108 Avenue, Suite 103
Miami, FL 33172
www.alfrediglesias.blogspot.com

We need the support of the community. Alfred Iglesias suffered a spinal cord damage during his honeymoon in December 2008. To help finance the cost not covered by insurance, we are holding a fundraiser. We will have raffles, and items for sale and a fun Zumba class. $20 per person donation will go to the Alfred Iglesias Trauma Foundation.

Make-A-Wish Bachelor & Bachelorette Dream Date Auction 7/29/11

Senior Special Events Coordinator
7/29/2011, doors open – 7:00 p.m.; auction begins – 8:30 p.m
Opium Nightclub in Seminole Paradise at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
1 Seminole Way
Hollywood, Florida 33314

www.dreamdateauction.net

Hosted by E! Celebrity Correspondent and Y-100’s own Michael Yo and Nina from The Yo Show, the event is an exciting opportunity to bid on extravagant date packages with some of South Florida’s hottest and most eligible singles while raising money to grant the wishes of local children who have life-threatening medical conditions. The evening also features raffle prizes, food, and drinks.

$25 in advance, $30 at the door (includes club entry and two drinks)
$40 VIP tickets (includes club entry, two drinks and access to VIP area)

A Flare For Design Benefitting The Lupus Foundation 5/19/11

A Flare for Design Featuring an evening of high impact fashions, philanthropy & designs Unite at DCOTA for a night to remember
Thursday, May 19, 2011
7:00PM; Event begins with Cocktails Hors d’oeuvres and Silent Auction
8:00 – 8:30PM; Fashion Show
9:00 PM; Special performance by Reese Bridges of the Grammy Award Winning Band Dirty Vegas
10:00PM; Event concludes
Design Center of the Americas (DCOTA)
1855 Griffin Road
Dania Beach Florida 33004

Ticket Info
$75 Silver; General Admission- Access for one (1), to attend the cocktail reception and fashion show
$125 Gold; Admission- Access for one (1) to attend the cocktails, & priority seating (based on availability) for the fashion show
$500 Platinum; VIP pass,- Access for one (1), reserved seating at the fashion show, access to VIP lounge, private tour of DCOTA and select showrooms with designers

To purchase tickets please visit www.aflarefordesign.com / email flare@lupusfl.org / or call 561.279.8606

Benefitting The Lupus Foundation Of America – Southeast Florida Chapter, Inc.

On Thursday, May 19th, A Flare for Design will bring together the design community, socialites, celebrities and business professionals for an evening of fashion, fun and fundraising combined with high design. The evening will culminate with a fashion show featuring national luxury fashion brands and a silent auction, while showcasing the latest interior design trends. All proceeds will benefit The Lupus Foundation of America, S.E. Florida Chapter.

It is estimated that 80 percent of the public know little or nothing about Lupus, a disease that affects 1.5 million people nationwide. In efforts to raise awareness and further educate the community about Lupus, Jenny Wilensky, Founder of istylie.com, created A Flare for Design.

“My mother fought for 35 years while living with Lupus and never did she once complain about what she went through,” said Jenny Wilensky. “I never knew how Lupus had affected her until now. Since her passing in June 2010, due to complications of Lupus, I have made it my passion to spread awareness and really make a difference within the community. My ultimate goal is to draw awareness to help fight, treat and cure this debilitating disease.”

The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA), Southeast Florida Chapter’s mission is to find a cure for lupus, to increase awareness and to end the suffering for the over 1.5 million Americans living with lupus and their loved ones through education and support. The charity draws upon a key group of affluent philanthropists, community leaders and power players from across South Florida.

Special Recognition to the Following Supporters: 100% Capri, Alexander Berardi, Alice & Olivia, Ammon Hickson, Andrew Martin, Beauty For Real, Brunschwig & Fils, C.Madeline, Caswell Massey, Designer’s Plumbing, DCOTA , Escada, Gilt City Miami, Haute Living, Ida & Harry ,Inside Out, Jo Malone, Luca Luca, Malo, Lyon & Lyon, Ocean Drive, Prestige/Audi, Quadrille, Romo, Trina Turk, V Georgio, Van Michael Salon and Vida Restaurant in Fontainebleau

Lupus is one of the nation’s least recognized major diseases. It is a chronic and potentially fatal autoimmune disorder that affects more than 100,000 Floridians, 1.5 million Americans and over 5 million people worldwide. In lupus, the body’s immune system forms antibodies that can attack virtually any healthy organ or tissue, from the kidneys to the brain, heart, lungs, skin, joints and blood. Ninety percent of the people with lupus are women and it is two to three times more common among African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, Native Americans and Asians.

The Lupus Foundation of America, Inc. (LFA) is the foremost national non-profit voluntary health organization dedicated to finding the causes of and cure for lupus and providing support, services and hope to the over 1.5 million people living with lupus in America. The Southeast Florida Chapter provides information, educational programs, support groups and personalized help to the over 100,000 people living with lupus in Florida and their loved ones. The Chapter also supports research and promotes awareness through education and advocacy on the state and local level. For more information, please contact the Lupus Foundation of America, Southeast Florida Chapter at 561-279-8606 or visit www.lupusfl.org.

For over 20 years, Design Center of the Americas (DCOTA) has served the design community with the finest campus amenities and showrooms in the industry attracting world class designers, architects, decorators, dealers and their clients.

At nearly 800,000 square feet, DCOTA is the largest design campus of its kind. High design is showcased within over 80 premier showrooms, catering to any home, yacht or office project. Fine indoor and outdoor furniture, fabrics, flooring, lighting, kitchen, bath, antiques, accessories, appliances, window treatments, decorative hardware, paint and surfacing are just some of the resources found within the center.

Vibes for Haiti 6/4/11

Vibes for Haiti
Saturday June 4, 9:00pm
The Grove Spot
3324 Virginia Street
Coconut Grove, Miami,FL 33133

This event will began at 9:00pm, and will consist of live music by Jahnesta, Jahfe and Live Free, hosted by Lance-O of Kulcha Shok Music, fashion showcases by Adjanie Muller, Kocoun, High Intensity Apparel, Charmingly Dysfunctional, Batoul Al Kamha, La belle Tifi and Vintage 1804. Local and international artists will have their art pieces on display, sales by unique vendors, passed hors d’oeuvres by Discreet Dishes and desserts by La Pulperia.

Pre-sold tickets can be purchased for $20 at www.vibesforhaiti.eventbrite.com starting May 10th 2011, as admission at the door will increase to $25. Parts of the proceeds from this event will benefit Word And Action, a non profit organization focusing on sexually abused children in Haiti. Their mission statement is available at www.wordandaction.org. Also Vibes for Haiti, will be collecting the necessary items for “Feed Haiti with Corn” project, which is designed to feed, educate and hire. These items are: 1) corn flour, 2) brown sugar,3) canned milk and 4) dry corn seeds for composts.

Vizcayan’s Evening Under the Stars, a celebration that was worthwhile By Betty Alvarez

The Vizcayans, a non profit group that works to protect, preserve and promote South Florida’s treasure, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens took their annual Spring gala, Evening Under the Stars to new heights on April 29.

Guests had the rare opportunity to tour the historic house and gardens by night and enjoy food, cocktails and live entertainment amidst a chic atmosphere. Inside the house, silent auctions items from exclusive jewelry, Romero Britto artwork, autographed sports and music memorabilia were up for bids. Throughout the event, fashion models showing off the latest Spring collection from Hugo Boss were impressive.

NBC anchor Pam Giganti along with NBC reporter Roxanne Vargas served as guests hosts alongside Leslie Bowe, The Vizcayan’s Vice President and Event Chair who thanked The Vizcayan volunteers and sponsors on helping make this event a great success. Miss Miami made a royal toast in celebration of the Royal Wedding happening earlier in the day who was very excited for the upcoming Miss Florida pageant.

Thierry’s Catering provided a pasta, paella and meat station which guests raved for. Stella Artois had a beer station which provided guest with several different kinds of beer. A favorite was the white beer which tasted like sparkling wine.

Guests could not get over the breathtaking views that Vizcaya Museum & Gardens had and a wonderful place to have such a high caliber event. More into the evening, a huge downpour fell over the historic house, however, that did not deter guests as they danced the night away to the beats of the DJ. It was truly a worthwhile celebration.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

Baru Urbano celebrated Happy Hour with a Cause by Betty Alvarez

On April 28, Barú Urbano, a Miami based restaurant in Brickell invited the community to be a part of a unique happy hour and networking event with a cause. Sponsored by Engel & Volkers and Barú Urbano, the Leukemia & Lymphoma society, all proceeds from the event went to the Luekemia & Lymphoma society.Guests enjoyed Happy hour specials and cocktails to support this wonderful cause.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

Miami Lighthouse for the Blind’s Music Under the Stars: Bon Appetit Miami was a tuneful hit By Betty Alvarez

The Miami Lighthouse for the Blind hosted an elegant but tuneful evening for their fourth annual “Music Under their Stars: Bon Appetit Miami” on April 27 featuring live jazz and pop by the wonderful Miami Lighthouse musicians. All proceeds to benefit the Heiken Children’s Vision Program.

A splendid array of delights awaited invited guests sponsored by Miami local restaurants in this indoor/outdoor event. The restaurant and beverage providers include Gibraltar, Casa Juancho, Perricone’s Marketplace, Starbucks Coffee, El Carajo, Chocolate Fashion, Grazie Italian Cuisine, Seasons 52 Fresh Grill, Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, Shorty’s Bar-B-Q, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, Gulf Discount Liquors & Wine Merchants, Gold Coast Beverage Distributors, CA Catering at The Crepe and The Crepe Station courtesy of Dr. Barry Burak and Affiliated Healthcare Centers, Inc. Attendees also enjoyed a tour of the Miami Lighthouse facility.

During the event, a silent auction was underway giving guests the opportunity to bid on exclusive items such as autographed Miami Heat memorabilia, trips, jewelry etc. Deco Drive’s Lynn Martinez served as guest host for this event as she presented awards and thanked Miami Lighthouse for the Blind Board of Directors and staff for their support in making “Music Under the Stars: Bon Appetit Miami” a success. A specials recognition was given to a special young lady for raising $5,000 on her own to benefit Miami Lighthouse for the Blind.

The Heiken Children’s Vision Program provides free comprehensive eye examinations and glasses when prescribed to low-income public school students who fail state-mandaded school vision screenings. For more information please visit: www.miamilighthouse.org

Photos by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

Artcenter/South Florida 9th Annual Winning Art Benefit Hosted by Elaine Lancaster 5/7/11

Artcenter/South Florida Raffle Fundraiser: 40 Artists, 40 Winners
Local Celebrity Elaine Lancaster Hosts 9th Annual Winning Art! Benefit Raffle
Saturday, May 7 at 7:00 p.m
800 Lincoln Road
Miami Beach

ArtCenter/South Florida presents an evening of prizes, cocktails, music and the chance to win fine art from the organization’s 40 professional artists-in-residence. Celebrating the 9th Annual Winning Art! benefit raffle, ArtCenter’s big draw takes place on Saturday, May 7 at 7:00 p.m. at 800 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. Wild on South Beach hostess and local celebrity Elaine Lancaster will be the diva emcee, and in addition to the raffle works, patrons can try their luck on silent auction items including a seven-day cruise and gift certificates from top restaurants, salons and personal trainers. Cocktails are complimentary, DJ Herbie James will spin soulful, lively beats, and amuses-bouches are provided by Sushisamba dromo.

Winning Art! raffle proceeds benefit ACSF’s education, exhibition and development programs. At a humble $10 per raffle ticket, patrons will gain admission to the May 7 event and have the opportunity to bid on their choice piece, donated by an established or emerging professional resident artist. The math is simple: the more tickets purchased, the higher the odds of winning. Winning Art! works are on view at www.artcentersf.org and the main gallery until May 8, 2011.

About ArtCenter/South Florida
Established in 1984, ArtCenter/South Florida (located at 800, 810 and 924 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach) is a non-profit 501(C)(3) organization that provides subsidized studio and exhibition space as well as teaching opportunities for emerging and career artists in their facilities at 800, 810 and 924 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. The mission of the ArtCenter is to advance the knowledge and practice of contemporary visual arts and culture in South Florida while providing affordable programming and work-space for professional artists. ArtCenter/South Florida is open Tuesday through Thursday from 12:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 12:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. For further information please call 305.674.8278 or visit the website at www.artcentersf.org.

Exhibitions and programs at ArtCenter/South Florida are made possible through grants from the Miami-Dade county Department of cultural Affairs, the Cultural Affairs council, the Miami-Dade mayor and Board of County Commissioners; The Children’s Trust; the City of Miami Beach Cultural Arts Council; the City of Miami Beach Community Development Block Grant Program; the Miami Beach Mayor and City Commissioners; the State of Florida, Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Arts Council; the Dade Community Foundation and the Chestler Family Fund at Dade Community Foundation; ArtéCity; Target and Walgreens.

Image: Adriana Carvalho “Foster”, 7” x 5” x 1”, Aluminum

Dwayne Wade Sr Pro-Pops Foundation Fundraising 5/20/11

Dwayne Wade Sr Pro-Pops Foundation Fundraising Event
May 20, 2011, 6:00pm
Tokyo Blue, Ocean Manor Resort
4040 Galt Ocean Drive
Fort Lauderdale, FL

Pro-Pops Foundation (Dwayne Wade Sr.) & Promotemysong.Com Proudly Invites You To Join Us
Featuring Dj’s:
Blazita [Hot 97fm] | Gq [Y 100fm] | 1 Tre | Kid Digipro | Bryan Rush [Resident DJ]

Special Guest Performances By:
– Novel Hooligan Featuring Jayquan

Also performing…
– Richelle L Brown
– CIA

Special Invited Guests
Dan Marino | Michael Irving | Pitbull (Rapper) | Dennis Rodman | Leonard Marshal | Sonny Parker | Bobby Brandt | The Miami Heat Dancers

Art is Life 6/10/11

Art is Life
Friday June 10th, 7:00 – 11:00pm
The Bakehouse Art Complex
501 NW 32nd Street
Wynwood Arts District
Reserve your tickets Online.

Art Is Life | Everything comes alive for one night at Bakehouse Art Complex!
$40 | Open Bar | Food
7pm | cocktail reception
9:00pm | live art auction
www.standupforkids.org/miami
www.bacfl.org

StandUp for Kids presents the 3rd annual Art Is Life!
www.facebook.com/standupforkidsmiami

Enjoy a fantastic night where it all comes alive to honour Miami’s homeless youth through the arts!

Support this great cause and be treated to:
*Live auction of the amazing works of the Bakehouse Artists at great prices!
*Live music from local band; Danger Flow
*Live Painter with DJ
*Live Energy Reading Room
Email us at miami@standupforkids.org to learn more.
Dress: Miami Chic

StandUp for Kids is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping the homeless youth in Miami.

Jewelry & Cocktail Event/Phillips Frankel 4/28/11

Join Dress for Success Miami and Phillips Frankel for a very special Cocktail & Jewelry Event, Kick-Off “pre-Mother’s Day Shopping”
Thursday, April 28, 2011 from 6-8pm (opening reception)
Phillips Frankel is located
1935 West Avenue, Suites 200-202
Miami Beach, FL 33139

You may also shop through Saturday April 30, 2011
Parking is available on the street and in the Publix parking garage across from Phillips Frankel

15% of all proceeds will be donated to Dress for Success Miami
You may also bring pieces of jewelry to donate.

The mission of Dress for Success Miami is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Our programs transition women towards self-sufficiency by addressing their social and economic needs in relation to work, home and community. Each woman is a success story: she has gone from unemployment to economic independence. Since 1994 Dress for Success Miami has assisted over 30,000 re-entering the workforce.
www.dressforsuccess.org/miami
photos from Mark Andrews photography

CJ Foundation 2nd Annual Gala and Silent Hero Award Ceremony 5/21/11

CJ Foundation 2nd Annual Gala and Silent Hero Award Ceremony
May 21st, 2011, 6:30 – 10:30
The Hamlet Country Club
3600 Hamlet Drive
Delray Beach FL 33445
www.cjfoundation.net

Not ” JUST” another gala- Your help will support us in creating the area’s FIRST art based afterschool and weekend program for children with ASD! …Help us reach our goal of $250K to make this dream a reality and Launch Cj’s Miracles…

At The beautiful Hamlet Country Club!
Hosted by community leader, Gregg Weiss
A special evening to honor those special heroes that quietly and tirelessly work behind the scenes for the benefit of children in our communities.

Join Us In Celebrating Our 2011 Silent Hero Nominees
Mr. Mike Luciano, Internet Manager of Mercedes Benz Delray Beach, Delray Beach Chamber Chairman’s Club Chair, Delray Beach, FL
Ms. Gretta Vitta, TV Personality, Spokesperson, & Radio Host, Magazine Writer & Contributor, Jupiter, Fl
Mrs. Karen Krumholtz, Director of Spirit of Giving, Boca Raton, Fl
Lt. Michael Coleman, Delray Police Department, Delray Beach Fl
Mr. Chuck Halberg, Owner of Stuart & Shelby Development, Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce, Business Person of the Year 2010-2011, Delray Beach, Fl
Ms. Alberta McCarthy, Real Estate Broker and Trainer, Chairwoman of Roots Cultural Festival, Commissioner Emeritus for the City of Delray Beach, Delray Beach Fl
Ms. Nicole Shelley Greenidge, Executive Director of Nicole Shelley Models, 2011 Ambassador of Commerce, St. Lucia, West Indies, Miami, Fl
Mrs. Nancy Reagan, Owner of Bella Reina Spa, Delray Beach, Fl,

Confirmed Guest Star: Steven Bauer- Star of ScarFace and Que Pasa USA

Special Pre-Gala Reception May 5th!

Contact : rdavis@cjfoundation.net
For more info Today!
Sponorship Opportunities still available

CJ’s Pre-Gala Reception and Arts-4-Autism BIG Vision Launch Party 5/5/11

CJ’s Pre-Gala Reception and Arts-4-Autism BIG Vision Launch Party!
05/05/2011, 6:30 – 8:30
The Arts Garage
180 NE 1st Street
Delray Beach FL 33444
www.cjfoundation.net
R.S.V.P by May 1st
This Is Limited To First 75 Attendees To Rsvp Directly @ rdavis@cjfoundation.net

A Special Event Hosted by Marie Hughes Presents and In Cooperation with Creative City Collaborative

Join The CJ Foundation for Children In Need As they Announce and Celebrate The 2011 Silent Hero Awards Nominees

Celebrate and Meet The first to artists to join the ARTS4AUTISM Project and learn about this BIG Vision idea!

Marie Hughes Presents Artist Briggs Edwards and Joshua Von Nonn
a % of their art sales back to establishing an Art based After School and Weekend Program for children with ASD here in DELRAY!

An evening full of Culture, Fun, And Philanthropy!

Light Fare
Wine Bar
Raffle Prizes
and MORE!

Cooking With the Stars 5/15/11

Cooking With the Stars
Sunday, May 15, 2011, 6pm
Temple Israel of Greater Miami
137 NE 19th Street
Miami, FL 33132
Website.

Temple Israel of Greater Miami will host its second annual Cooking with the Stars, an evening of fine wine and dining with South Florida’s celebrity chefs on Sunday, May 15th, beginning at 6:00 PM.

Author and media personality Linda Gassenheimer will emcee the event at the Temple’s Performing Arts District campus as celebrity chefs Michelle Bernstein (Michy’s, Sra. Martinez), Douglas Rodriguez (Ola, DeRodriguez Cuba on Ocean), Cindy Hutson (Ortanique on the Mile), Sam Gorenstein (BLT Steak at The Betsy), Aria Kagan (from “The Next Food Network Star,” and Eats Good) and Michael Moran (FIU Culinary Coordinator of the South Beach Wine & Food Festival) demonstrate the preparation of their gastronomic creations.

Also participating: Jeffrey Wolfe (Wolfe’s Wine Shoppe) who will discuss the event’s wine-pairings; Chef Michael Meltzer (Michael’s Catering); Epicure Gourmet Market and Café; and, Misha’s Cupcakes.

Benefiting from the gourmet evening are Temple Israel and its community projects, such as the Feed the Homeless program and Community Garden to support Lotus House Homeless Shelter, as well as the chefs’ favorite charities.

“Foodie” reservations are $180 pp and “Gourmet” tickets, which include a 5 pm VIP reception, are $250 pp. There are multiple underwriting and sponsorship opportunities. For more information and reservations, please contact Marla Towbin, executive director, at 305.573.5900, ext.404, or marla@templeisrael.net.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Miami 11th Annual Miracle Makers Luncheon and Fashion Show 5/6/11

Friday, May 6, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach
1 Lincoln Road
Miami Beach, FL
Please contact Karina Alvarez for information: 305.644.0066 x 294 or kalvarez@bbbsmiami.org

Big Brothers Big Sisters Celebrates Florida’s Philanthropic And Fashionable
The Women’s Committee of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Miami, and co-chairs Norma Jean Abraham and Irene Korge invite you to the 11th Annual Miracle Makers Luncheon and Fashion Show to be held at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach on Friday, May 6, 2011. Shannon Hori, CBS 4 Anchor will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies. There will be a spectacular silent auction, cocktail reception, luncheon and fashion show by Neiman Marcus Coral Gables.

The 2011 Miracle Makers Honorees are:
Cathy Blank, Lauren Book, Lourdes Castillo de la Peña, Sonia Gibson, Louise Harms, Lauren Harrison Genovese, Nina Hart, Ingrid Hoffman, Filemon Lopez, Emily Marquez-Dulin, Richard Milstein, Joe Peña, Stephanie Sayfie, Ana Viega Milton

About Big Brothers Big Sisters: Big Brothers Big Sisters is a donor and volunteer supported organization that transforms the lives of at-risk children through supportive adult mentor relationships. For further information, visit www.wementor.org or call 305.644.0066.

South Florida Dine Out For Life to Fight AIDS 4/28/11

Join South Florida on Thursday, April 28th as we Dine Out, Fight AIDS! For more information and a list of participating restaurants, visit www.diningoutforlife.com/miami

Care Resource is proud to host its sixth year of Dining Out For Life (DOFL) in Southeast Florida on Thursday April 28, 2011, with spokesperson Executive Chef Paula DaSilva of 1500 Degrees, the farm-to-table eatery located at Eden Roc Renaissance in Miami Beach. DOFL is a one-day international fundraiser benefiting non-profit service agencies in over 55 metropolitan areas across the United States and Canada. On April 28, thousands of supporters will dine together with friends, family members and coworkers in support of the fight against HIV/AIDS. Participating restaurants will donate a portion of their sales that night to HIV/AIDS organizations allowing for continued services and programs to families and individuals infected or affected by HIV/AIDS.

OUR MISSION: “Through education, prevention, research, care & treatment and support services, Care Resource improves upon the health and overall quality of life of our diverse South Florida communities in need.”
Care Resource, providing care to the HIV/AIDS community for 27 Years

Champions of Equality Awards Reception and Silent Auction 5/20/11

Champions of Equality 2011
Friday, May 20, at 6:30 PM
The Ice Palace
1400 North Miami Avenue
Miami, FL 33136
More Info.
Buy Tickets Now.

Honoring the ACLU of Florida, Greenberg Traurig LLP, and Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Shultz

The SAVE Dade Champions of Equality Awards Reception and Silent Auction is an annual event established to honor members of the community who have significantly advanced the cause of equality for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community in Miami-Dade County.

This year’s honorees include the ACLU of Florida and Greenberg Traurig LLP, both of whom helped strike down the ban which prohibited gay and lesbian Floridians from adopting, and South Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, who has led the movement for equality on Capitol Hill time and time again.

The Miami Lighthouse for the Blind presents Music Under the Stars Bon Appétit Miami 4/27/11

“Music Under the Stars: Bon Appétit Miami”
Wednesday, April 27 from 6:30-9:30 p.m
Miami Lighthouse For The Blind
601 SW 8th Avenue
Miami, FL

Miami Lighthouse invites the community to attend the fourth annual “Music Under the Stars: Bon Appétit Miami” featuring delicious samplings from Miami area restaurants, Wednesday, April 27 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at our facility located at 601 SW 8th Avenue. The Heiken Children’s Vision Program provides free comprehensive eye examinations and glasses when prescribed to low-income public school students who fail state-mandated school vision screenings. There is an $80 donation to attend the event which commemorates the 80th birthday of Miami Lighthouse and covers most of the cost to provide free eye care and glasses for one low-income child who fails a state-mandated school vision screening.

“This is a special evening to help raise awareness and financial support for the many thousands of low-income children in our community who need our help to achieve educational success,” said Virginia A. Jacko, President & CEO of Miami Lighthouse. The Miami Lighthouse Heiken Children’s Vision Program is the only entity in Florida with the experience, capacity, programming, and community support to ensure that needy children in the public school system can receive a comprehensive eye examination and necessary eyeglasses. This school year the Heiken Program will complete over 6,000 eye exams, and more than 75% of the students will be prescribed eyeglasses, but the need is even greater.

Local restaurants will sponsor food stations at the indoor/outdoor event, and attendees can also enjoy a tour of the Miami Lighthouse facility. The restaurant and beverage providers include: Gibraltar, Casa Juancho, Perricone’s Marketplace, Starbucks Coffee, El Carajo, Chocolate Fashion, Grazie Italian Cuisine, Seasons 52 Fresh Grill, Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, Shorty’s Bar-B-Q, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, Gulf Discount Liquors & Wine Merchants, Gold Coast Beverage Distributors, CA Catering and The Crepe Station courtesy of Dr. Barry Burak and Affiliated Healthcare Centers, Inc.

The event is sponsored by Baptist Health South Florida, Essilor Laboratories of America, Transitions Optical, SMF Energy Corporation, Essilor of America, Low VisionAids Inc., Sir Speedy Printing and Marketing Services, GrayRobinson Attorneys at Law, Verdeja & De Armas Certified Public Accountants, VSP Labs, DadePaper, and Kodak Lens by Signet Armorlite. Event tickets are $80 per person, benefiting the Heiken Children’s Vision Program. To reserve, call 786-362-7514. Valet parking is complimentary.

Coral Gables Museum Golf Tournament 5/12/11

Coral Gables Museum’s Second Annual Golf Tournament
Thursday, May 12, 2011
The Biltmore Hotel

Join the Coral Gables Museum for a beautiful day of golf at The Biltmore Hotel. Participants receive a bountiful breakfast, greens fees and cart, complimentary refreshments on the course, buffet awards luncheon and open bar at the Biltmore, generous gift bags, and the opportunity to win fabulous event contest and raffle prizes. Shoot for a Mercedes Benz GLK as the hole-in-one prize!

Current Tournament sponsors include Doctor’s Hospital, Bacardi, Suntrust, The Biltmore Hotel and CF Whitehurst

Want to participate? Become a sponsor?
Registration forms and Sponsorship opportunites are attached below.
For more information, call Chris at 305-910-3996 or e-mail Chris@CoralGablesMuseum.org

To register click here for a PDF of registration form

To become a sponsor click here for a PDF of sponsorship info

We Heart The Troops Memorial Day Celebration and Benefit 5/13/11

Friday, May 13, 8:00 PM
The Newport Beachside Resort
16701 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33160
Admission: $10.00
Purchase Advanced Tickets.

“We HEART the TROOPS ” Memorial Day Celebration & Benefit

You are requested for your support and attendance to “We HEART the TROOPS” Memorial Day Celebration & Benefit, a night of entertainment and tribute to the thousands of service members who have served and been injured while serving overseas, especially in Iraq and Afghanistan.
This event will be held at one of the few resorts in the Nation that offer discount rates for Veterans, The Newport Beachside Resort inside The Tiffany Ballroom, 16701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida 33160, Friday, May 13, 2011 starting at 8pm.

Benefiting from this event, Cell Phones for Soldiers, Freedom Is Not Free, Operation Hug-A-Hero

Tribute LIVE PERFORMANCE by: Florida Panther’s Ice Dancer’s
Miami’s own Dance Culture will showcase unique artistic dancing from cultures around the world.
Complimentary hor’derves and drink specials all evening
Special complimentary entry for those with any form of military I.D.

Photographs for Team Club Hell Fundraiser for MS150 at Villa 221 on 4/22/11

Photographs for Team Club Hell Fundraiser for MS150 at Villa 221 on Friday, April 22, 2011.  Villa 221 generously offered to donate 15% of its bar sales to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. This year marks the 25th Anniversary Zimmerman MS Bike Ride, which raises over $1 million to support Multiple Sclerosis research and the people who live with MS every year.  I biked this 2 years ago with them (hope to do it again next year) and I had so much fun and for such a great cause, so if you want to make a donation to Club Hell for the MS150, click here.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of ECOMB’s GreenRaiser at the Sagamore on 4/21/11

ECOMB’s GreenRaiser at the Sagamore Hotel on Thursday, April 21, 2011.  We got to see the wonderful fashions from Art of Shade, they utilizes RECYCLED materials to create couture, ready-to-wear, and one-of-a-kind garments.

ECOMB, an environmental not-for-profit organization founded in 1994, is dedicated to the promotion of environmental sustainability and the preservation of our community’s ecology. This mission is carried out through the development and implementation of a variety of educational programs and campaigns in an effort to reduce litter in our beaches, waterways, islands, parks and mangroves; increase residential and commercial recycling; promote, preserve and restore coastal habitats; and decrease our community’s carbon footprint through the adoption of “green” lifestyle practices that are more environmentally sustainable. By forming strategic partnerships both with local, state, and national non-profits, businesses, schools and government agencies, ECOMB is able to organize various community cleanup projects, conduct environmental seminars, and promote sustainable behaviors, practices and initiatives with in our community.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Big Game Night for Relay for Life in the City 4/22/11

Big Game Night for Relay for Life in the City Friday
Friday, April 22nd, 7pm-12am
Betty T. Ferguson Center
3000 NW 199th St
Miami Gardens
RSVP Here.

Love to play Taboo? UNO? Spades? All types of games at the huge adult game night for a good cause. Join PlayDate Miami & the City of Miami Gardens for “Give & Play for Relay for Life” Friday, April 22nd from 7pm-12am.

Give & Play will be hosted at the City’s all new $15 million Betty T. Ferguson Center located at 3000 NW 199th St, Miami Gardens with proceeds going towards the City’s $15,000 Relay for Life fundraising goal. Contribution is $10.

Give & Play is a cause-based marketing initiative based on the popular PlayDate brand and offers charities and non-profit organizations a new way to raise awareness and financial support for a worthy cause based on the idea of playing games and having fun. Just like the PlayDate Miami event concept, attendees of Give & Play come out and enjoy all types of classic nostalgic games like Monopoly, Taboo, Scrabble, Uno, Connect Four, and even childhood favorites like Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots and Hungry Hungry Hippos. Interactive games also include a Hula Hoop contest, Twister, Adult Musical Chairs, and even Simon Says.

“I am supportive officially and personally to the fight against cancer and their research. I encourage everyone to be a team player and not a spectator,” shares Miami Gardens Mayor Shirley Gibson. “As a team, we all win!”

Photographs of Drinking for a Good Cause at The News Lounge on 4/20/11

Drinking for a Good Cause at The News Lounge on Wednesday, April 20, 2011.

They transform your alcoholic tendencies into funds to support non-for-profit orgs that are committed to make a positive and direct impact in our community through programs that raise self awareness, promote tolerance for our fellow human beings and facilitate a richer experience of life overall. You drink – they do the rest.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Villa 221 MS Society Fundraiser 4/22/11

Friday, April 22, 2011 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Villa 221
221 NE 17th St
Miami, FL 33132

Please join us for Happy Hour!

Music by DJs QBA, Diaga, Satan, & Stephney and drink specials from 5pm – 9pm.

Villa 221 has generously offered to donate 15% of its bar sales to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. This year marks the 25th Anniversary Zimmerman MS Bike Ride, which raises over $1 million to support Multiple Sclerosis research and the peopole who live with MS every year.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to ending the devastating effects of MS. They simultaneously fund research for a cure while also helping people who currently live with MS lead more fulfilling lives. More than 400,000 Americans live with MS, and your support can and will make changes in their lives.

Please consider coming by for a drink and a good cause with us this Friday!

If you are unable to make it to the event but would like to support the cause, please feel free to donate to team Club Hell directly by following this link.

Chefs For A Cure At 1500° 5/17/11

Chefs For A Cure At 1500°
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach
4525 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach

Chef Paula DaSilva and Chef Friends Dean Max, Michael Bloise, Timon Balloo, Sean Brasel and Hedy Goldsmith Host Five-Course Dinner Benefitting the American Association for Cancer Research

Executive chef Paula DaSilva and 1500°, the popular new farm-to-table dining destination in the Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach, are hosting Chefs for a Cure, an exquisite five-course dinner prepared by a stellar line-up of star chefs and benefitting the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at 7 p.m. To honor a close friend who succumbed to the disease last year, DaSilva called on fellow chef friends – Dean Max of 3030 Ocean, Michael Bloise of American Noodle Bar, Timon Balloo of Sugarcane, Sean Brasel of Meat Market and Hedy Goldsmith, pastry chef at Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink – to come together and create something delicious for a wonderful cause.

“Chefs for a Cure is a wonderful opportunity to bring incredibly talented chefs together to raise money for cancer research,” says DaSilva. “And the American Association for Cancer Research is a wonderful organization to support. Last year, my dear friend Leah Caputo lost her 11-year battle to breast cancer. I wanted to honor her life by bringing chefs, friends and family together to enjoy two of Leah’s favorites – great food and wine – all while continuing to raise awareness and funds for cancer research.”

The dinner, complete with a reception co-sponsored by Maisons Marques & Domaines Champagne Louis Roederer, Sam Adams and Votan organic vodka, will take diners on a culinary tour of the best of Miami, with each course prepared by a different chef and paired perfectly with an array of amazing wines. It is priced at $150 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity. Seating is limited and must be reserved in advance by calling Melissa Reilly at 305-674-5594. Proceeds will go to the AACR in Leah Caputo’s name; there will also be a silent auction on-site to raise additional funds.

Menu follows:
Reception
Paula DaSilva, 1500°
Chef’s Selection of Canapés
Roederer Estate Brut NV Anderson Valley

First Course
Dean Max, 3030 Ocean
Sautéed Sebastian Inlet Soft Shell Crab, Swank Spicy Green Salad, Smoked Bacon,
Snap Pea Bubbles, Brown Butter Vinaigrette
2009 Pascal Jolivet Sancerre

Second Course
Michael Bloise, American Noodle Bar
Seared Diver Scallops, Grilled Braised Oxtail, Crystal Black-Eyed Peas, Collard Greens, Coriander Beurre Blanc
Delas Cotes-du-Rhone

Third Course
Timon Balloo, Sugarcane
Pan Seared Snapper, Butter Braised Leeks & Shellfish Ragu
Antica Chardonnay, Napa Valley

Fourth Course
Sean Brasel, Meat Market
Dry-Aged Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Caviar, Pork Belly Braised Spinach and Crispy Marinated Shallots
Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa 2007

Dessert
Hedy Goldsmith, Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink
Fresh Fruit Crostada, Bowls of Ice Cream and Creama, & Pitchers of Salted Caramel Sauce, served family-style
d’Arenberg The Stump Jump Sticky Chardonnay
AACR/1500° Dinner

About Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach
The stylish new Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach commands center stage on one of the world’s most famous beaches, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the yachts and mansions of the Intracoastal Waterway on the other. With the redesign of its Historic Tower and the addition of the sleek new 21-story Ocean Tower, the Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach has almost doubled in size from 349 guest rooms to 631 oversized guest rooms, including three 2,500 sq. ft. penthouse suites, 18 oceanfront one-bedroom suites, and 15 bi-level bungalow suites with floating staircases; all rooms feature flat-screen HDTV’s, iPod stations & Wi-Fi. Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach now offers 28 meeting rooms with 46,000 square feet of flexible indoor meeting space and 25,000 square feet of outdoor event space with breathtaking ocean and Intracoastal views.

About the AACR
The mission of the American Association for Cancer Research is to prevent and cure cancer. Founded in 1907, the AACR is the world’s oldest and largest professional organization dedicated to advancing cancer research. The membership includes 33,000 basic, translational and clinical researchers; health care professionals; and cancer survivors and advocates in the United States and more than 90 other countries. The AACR marshals the full spectrum of expertise from the cancer community to accelerate progress in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer through high-quality scientific and educational programs. It funds innovative, meritorious research grants, research fellowships and career development awards. The AACR Annual Meeting attracts more than 18,000 participants who share the latest discoveries and developments in the field. Special conferences throughout the year present novel data across a wide variety of topics in cancer research, treatment and patient care. Including Cancer Discovery, the AACR publishes seven major peer-reviewed journals: Cancer Research; Clinical Cancer Research; Molecular Cancer Therapeutics; Molecular Cancer Research; Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention; and Cancer Prevention Research. AACR journals represented 20 percent of the market share of total citations in 2009. The AACR also publishes CR, a magazine for cancer survivors and their families, patient advocates, physicians and scientists. The AACR is the scientific partner to Stand Up To Cancer, an initiative of the Entertainment Industry Foundation.

1500° is located at the Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach, 4525 Collins Avenue on Miami Beach.
The restaurant serves dinner nightly beginning at 6:00 p.m. Telephone: (305) 674-5594; www.1500degreesmiami.com. For resort information and reservations, please call 1-800-hotels1 or (305) 531-0000 or visit www.edenrocmiami.com.

Drinking for a good cause 4/20/11

Drinking for a good cause
4/20/2011, 7pm to midnight
The News Lounge
5580 NE 4th Ct
Miami, FL
Facebook Evite.

Drinking for a good cause.
Because you already go out and drink, might as well support.

We transform your alcoholic tendencies into funds to support non-for-profit orgs that are commited to make a possitive and direct impact in our community through programs that raise self awareness, promote tolerance for our fellow human beings and facilitate a richer experience of life overall. You drink – we do the rest.

From party people, to party animals for a good cause.

*We do not support or encourage the abuse of alcoholic beverages.
If you have drinking problems please visit your physician and/or support groups. If you drink please refrain from driving.

♥ ur district

Vizcayans Evening Under the Stars 4/29/11

The Vizcayans to Host 14th Annual Evening Under the Stars
April 29, 2011
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
3251 South Miami Avenue
Miami, 33129

Attendees must be 21 and over and should dress to impres. The event takes place rain or shine. All proceeds beneft The Vizcayans’ mission to support Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Please visit www.vizcayans.org to purchase your tickets or renew/upgrade your membership. Tickets are $75 for members and $100 for non-members for advance purchase; the night of the event, they are $125 at door. For additional information please call 305-856-4866 ex: 3.

The Vizcayans , a non-proft that works to protect, preserve and promote South Florida treasure, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens takes their annual spring party, Evening Under the Stars, to new heights on Friday, April 29th, from 7:30 to 11 PM.

This rare opportunity to tour the historic house and gardens by night and enjoy food, wine and enter- tainment amidst a chic cocktail atmosphere, takes a royal turn by toasting the wedding of the century of Prince William and Kate Middleton and showing it on a large screen all night long. Guests are en- couraged to make their own memories of the Royal Wedding day!

Also showing are the latest spring fashions from Hugo Boss Orange – a colorful, impressive collec- tion of everyday wear, business-appropriate cloth- ing and accessories.

Presented by LINCOLN and Stella Artois, with wines from Anacapri Italian Cuisine & Market, beer from Stella Artois and food by Thierry’s Catering, the free-fowing evening features an assortment of festive activities including light food, drinks , fashion and dancing with DJ Crunchtime. Evening Under the Stars is star-powered by hosts NBC Miami anchor Pam Giganti and NBC Miami reporter Roxanne Vargas.

A Silent Auction gives participants additional opportunities to beneft The Vizcayans and take home very special offerings. Striking the fancy of sports fans, memorabilia autographed by Dwyane Wade, Joe DiMaggio and other heroes is up for grabs. Music lovers can make a play for autographed guitars from The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen and Justin Bieber. Got the travel bug? Destinations like New York’s Fashion Week, LA’s Grammy Awards and relaxing resorts await. And for the adventurous, cap- ture the imagination with priceless experiences like fying with a fghter pilot or attending a round of the Masters Golf Championship!

The Vizcayans Vice President and Event Chair Leslie Bowe promises “an extraordinary night for all. What better way to celebrate the history-making Royal Wedding and the natural beauty of South Flori- da’s most breathtaking historic house and gardens than an evening of food, fashion and luxury under the stars that benefts historic Vizcaya?” Bowe concludes.

About The Vizcayans: The Vizcayans engages broad participation in the preservation and advancement of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens as an accredited museum and a National Historic Landmark through fnancial support, advocacy and other activities.

About Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the Miami estate of agri- cultural industrialist James Deering to engage our community and its visitors in learning through the arts, history, and the environment. Contact: Jan Idelman, 954-294-3777, jidelman@bellsouth.net

Get together at Hooters 5/13/11

ALL DAY, Friday, May 13th
Hooters
3301 SW 22nd St., Suite 104

We saw the Miami HEAT beat the Rockets and the Bobcats!

We enjoyed each other’s company sharing conversation, martinis, and makeup tips!

All this happened while raising money for Caring About the Strays.

Let’s spend some time together again and help our non-profit animal rescue group!

Eventhough we have ALL DAY, Friday, May 13th to attend HOOTERS, we are planning a group for 5:30pm to enjoy Happy Hour and get our donation.

Who will join us? Let us know!

events@caringaboutthestrays.org or 305.889.0840

Print (or email) the attached flyer and give one to all your friends! The more people that attend HOOTERS on May 13, the more money we raise for our rescues!

Caring About the Strays

Photographs of Art of Life at Trio on the Bay on 4/16/11

Photographs of Art of Life at Trio on the Bay on Saturday, April 16, 2011.  Art Exhibit / Unveiling / Auction and Glamorous Fun for a good cause. World renowned artist / painter NOEL and photographer Lloyd Goradesky, who created the largest photo in the world,  jointly exhibit their favorite art pieces and donate one original art that was auctioned out during the event.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Social Sign Up 4/20/11

Social Sign Up
04/20/11, 8:00 pm
Bar 721
721 Lincoln Lane
Miami Beach, FL 33139
www.abilityexplosion.org

We are throwing this event to spread the word of our Non-Profit association and we are gathering emails. Each person that gives us their email will get a free drink ticket. Drinks sponsored by Absolute and Red Bull.

Ability Explosion is a weeklong series of special events held in historic Miami Beach and created for the enjoyment of the entire community. From “Lights Out Miami Beach” (A Dining in the dark experience) to the 5k Run, the mission of Ability Explosion is to celebrate the ABILITIES of people living with Disabilities, to encourage their acceptance by the entire community and to promote innovations that will improve their lives.

Youth L.E.A.D. Food Justice Cocktail Benefit a Big Success By Betty Alvarez

On April 15, Youth L.E.A.D. held a benefit cocktail reception at Cafeina in Wynwood. This non-profit organization empowers underserved youths as activists to increase access to healthy food and clean environments in the school and community through after school programs and service learning projects. Guests who contributed to this cocktail fundraiser helped this cutting edge non profit to bring “food justice” to Miami. Guests also participated in a raffle for prizes worth $100 and up. Youth L.E.A.D. is a fiscal sponsorship fund of the Miami Founation, a 501C3 organization.

To learn more about Youth L.E.A.D. please visit www.youthleadmiami.org

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

River of Art, Fashion, Music, Networking Event by Life Is Art at The Surfcomber 5/6/11

River Of Art
Showcase, Happy Hour, Networker, Party
Friday, May 6, 6:30pm-9:30pm
Surfcomber Collins Bar
1717 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach, FL
NO COVER

1/2 Price Drinks 6:30-7:30
Free Appetizers Courtesy of Surfcomber
Produced by Life Is Art
Facebook Evite.

River of Art, Fashion, Music, Networking Event by Life Is Art at the Surfcomber May 6, 2011

Life Is Art is happy to present another fun River Of Art Showcase & Networker! On May 6th we will be gathering at the beautiful Collins Bar in the Surfcomber Hotel for an evening of art, music, fashion and socializing. If you have never been to the Collins Bar, this is your chance to check out this excellent Art Deco gem.

The Surfcomber is hooking us up with half price drinks for the first hour and free appetizers. We are featuring seven excellent artists and will be having a fashion show, as well. Music compliments the entire evening. This is an excellent way to wind up your week and get started on the weekend. A portion of the proceeds goes to support the arts in south Florida, so drink up!

Featured Artists
Carol P. Kingsley
Diana Contreras
Mikayla Castro
Carlos G. Scott
Agatha Green
Nora Meyer
Paula Turk
Passing Fancy Fashion Designs by Ivette Lopez Garcia
Music by DJ A.K.

We welcome all other arts organizations and artists to bring their promotional material for distribution.

Life Is Art, Inc is a non-profit organization dedicated to the support and promotion of the art community in south Florida.

United Way’s Miami Wine and Food Festival celebrates 16 years with its Taste and Toast-Fine Wine Tasting By Betty Alvarez

The 16th annual United Way Miami Wine and Food Festival, Miami’s first and foremost charity wine and food festival, took place on April 14 t. Presented by American Express, all proceeds from the festival will benefit United Way of Miami-Dade’s work in the areas of education, income and health.

This annual event brings together food and wine lovers from all over South Florida. It’s Taste & Toast – Fine Wine Tasting presented by Miccosukee Resort & Gaming, featured dozens of international wineries and 30 of South Florida’s top restaurants and caterers, including: Acqua at Four Seasons Hotel, AltaMare, Meat Market, Ortanique on the Mile, Season’s 52, Timo Restaurant and Two Chefs among many others. Following the tasting, guests enjoyed the Glenfiddich “Music to Drink Whiskey By” afterparty featuring whiskey ambassador and scotch specialist Heather Greene and DJ Adam Williams. Taste & Toast took place at Village of Merrick Park.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

Leave A Legacy 14th Annual Donor Next Door Luncheon 5/5/11

Leave A Legacy© 14th Annual Donor Next Door Luncheon
May 5, 2011, 11 a.m.
Jungle Island
1111 Parrot Jungle Trail
leavealegacymiami.org
Cost: Tickets are $65 each and tables $650
RSVP: Call 305.379.0800

South Florida nonprofits will honor their leading patrons whose commitments often go well beyond financial support at the annual LEAVE A LEGACY© 14th Annual Donor Next Door Luncheon at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 5 at Parrott Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail
.

This year’s luncheon will also showcase the work of a nonprofit leader whose guidance and vision has created lasting change in the community. Harve A. Mogul will be awarded the Professional Advisor of the Year Award for his two decades at the helm of the United Way of Miami-Dade.

Jaret L. Davis, co-managing shareholder with Greenberg Traurig will receive the Ruth Shack Community Leadership Award for his work volunteer work with the University of Miami, and as a board member of Miami Children’s Hospital, the American Diabetes Association, City Year and the Miami Coalition for Christians and Jews.

Participating Nonprofits
Baptist Health South Florida Foundation
The Miami Foundation
Belafonte Tacolcy Center
Casa Valentina
The Education Fund
Feeding South Florida
The Foundation of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation
Health Foundation of South Florida
Human Services Coalition/Catalyst Miami
Jewish Community Services of South Florida
Joshua’s Heart Foundation
Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation
Miami Coalition of Christians and Jews
Miami Jewish Health Systems
Miami Lighthouse for the Blind
Miami Rescue Mission/Broward Outreach Center
New World School of the Arts
Partnership for Philanthropic Planning of Miami-Dade County
United Way of Miami-Dade
University of Miami
The Women’s Fund of Miami-Dade County
YMCA of Greater Miami

Leave A Legacy© is a program of the Partnership for Philanthropic Planning (formerly Planned Giving Council) of Miami-Dade, comprised of non-profit leaders and allied business professionals involved in estate and financial planning, whose mission is to promote philanthropy in our community. For more information, visit LeaveALegacyMiami.org.

Leave A Legacy© Sponsors
Presenting Sponsors: Baptist Health South and Florida Foundation

Program Sponsors: Chase Marketing Group, The Miami Foundation and Northern Trust, NA

Sustaining Sponsors: Akerman Senterfitt; Catholic Community Foundation; Fiduciary Trust International of the South; Partnership for Philanthropic Planning of Miami-Dade; Regions Morgan Keegan Trust; SunTrust Foundation & Endowment Specialty Practice; and United Way of Miami-Dade

Supporting Sponsors: Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation; Morris Family Foundation; Wachovia, A Wells Fargo Company

Partner Sponsors: Dunwody White & Landon, PA

NFL Player Twan Russell at Lexus of North Miami for Backpack to the Future 4/21/11

Thursday, April 21 · 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Lexus of North Miami
14100 Biscayne Blvd.
North Miami, FL

The Craig Zinn Automotive Group hosts the Russell Life Skills and Reading Foundation’s, Backpack to the Future, a VIP Kick-off Reception and Collection Providing Book Bags and School Supplies for Better Lives.

Wine | Hors d’oeuvres | Live Music | Silent Auction

Live Reading by WFOR CBS 4 reporter Nicole Maristany and Twan Russell to celebrate the importance of education and kick-off the collection drive.

Launch of Teacher Appreciation Program.

Please bring a new book bag or school supply item to register for the event.

RSVP by Wednesday, April 20th to Christine Hayes 954.527.3334 ext. 309 or eventRSVP@ZuckerPR.com

Bold Adventures Party with Tigertail On Stage 5/21/11

Saturday, May 21, 8:00 – 11:00 pm
Miami Dade County Auditorium
2901 West Flagler Street
Miami
Tickets www.tigertail.org, by phone 305 324 4337
Tickets $125 per person $220 two persons Event Host $400 four persons

“Party like Pavarotti” On Stage at a fundraiser for Tigertail.
Bold Adventures, it’s more than an idea.

Treat yourself to a Bold Adventure. Take a walk on the wild side. Come to Tigertail’s annual fling. This year we are On Stage at the Miami Dade County Auditorium. Stage Door Johnny will greet you as you enter the cabaret through the theater back door. Then make your entrance onto the stage where you become the star. Conjure up a performer from this site’s 60-year history of legendary performers. Dream of Nureyev, Liberace, Marion Anderson, who integrated the theater in 1951, Artur Rubinstein, Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, Pavarotti – his U.S. premiere, Yma Sumac, Jose Greco, Tito Puente, Thomas Armour.

Top hats, tutus, tights and tambourines – mix it up. Come in costume, or not.
Build or start your art collection. This is the place to do it. You can’t go to eBay for the jewels you can purchase in the Not So Silent Silent Auction. Curator Wendy Wischer has elicited a stable of “wow” artwork.

Miami’s magician of the unexpected Octavio Campos will lead you through the night.
Great food. Great fun. Great booze. Great friends.

Artwork for bid by: Loriel Beltran, Edouard Duval Carrié, Elizabeth Cerejido, Robert Chambers, Julie Davidow, Felice Grodin, Adler Guerrier, Kathleen Hudspeth, William Keddell, Natalya Laskis, Susan Lee Chun, Terri Lindbloom, John Mack, Vanessa Mayoraz, Andres Michelena, Lucia Minervini, Peggy Nolan, Charo Oquet, Jay Ore, Christina Pettersson, Vicki Pierre, Ralph Provisero, Brian Reedy, Karen Rifas, Leyden Rodriguez, Andrew Scott Ross, Samantha Salzinger, Tom Scicluna, Sara Stites, Ileana Tolbia, Mette Tommerup, Ivan Toth-Depena, Tom Virgin, Michelle Weinberg, Tom Weinkle, Wendy Wischer.

With food and open bar and so much more!
Free easy parking on-site

Host Committee: David Beaty, Ray Breslin & Patrick Pecoraro, Harvey Burstein, Michael Caputo, Peter & Gina Cunningham, Doug Derby, Alain Filiz, Luis Hernandez & Don Finefrock, David Hammer, Benjamin Hein, Joe Hoyt & Nancy Meyer, Remko Jansonius, Glenn Kaufhold, John Kramel, Cathy Leff, Mary Luft, Riley & Donna McLachan, Kathleen Murphy, Lea Nickless, Dale Penn, Joseph Polito & Lisa Beal, Mercedes & Manny Quiroga, Will Rey, Flaminia Gennari Santori, Joan Schaeffer, Kennan Siegel, Linda M. Smith, Wallis Tinnie, Tom Weinkle, Elaine Wright & Michael Roark, Paquita Zuidema & Brian Mapes

American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Roads/Brickell/Downtown 5/14-15/11

May 14 at 3pm to May 15 at 9:00am
(Luminaria Ceremony at 9:00 pm)
Watson Island
Miami, FL
www.relayforlife.org/rbdfl

Relay For Life is the signature event of the American Cancer Society. At this overnight community event, people form teams, raise money and camp out while enjoying entertainment, food, fun and camaraderie. Cancer survivors are the shining STARS of Relay, we celebrate their courage in the fight! We hope to see you there!

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is an overnight event in which teams formed by community members, and local and national brands, join together in the fight against cancer. Relay For Life celebrates the lives of those who have battled cancer, remembers loved ones lost, and empowers us to fight back against the disease. The Relay For Life of Roads/Brickell/Downtown will take place at Watson Island. Overlooking the Miami Downtown Skyline on Saturday, May 14th and Sunday, May 15th from 3pm – 9am. Cancer never sleeps, so neither will we. The entertainment at the event ranges from local bands, to national artists, and movies – as well as entertainment for families, and young children.

Smith-Magenis Syndrome (Sms) Research Foundation Hosts The 2nd Annual Sienna’s Steps 5k Run/Walk 5/21/11

On Saturday, May 21, 2011, the Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS) Research Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, will host the Second Annual Sienna’s Steps 5K Run/Walk at Memorial Hospital Miramar.

Sienna Rose, daughter of Missy and Dan Longman, was born on May 21, 2006. After undergoing open-heart surgery at just four weeks old, she was diagnosed with a rare and chromosomal disorder called Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS). Since then, Sienna has undergone eight more surgeries for various medical complications associated with the syndrome. She maintains a daily routine of intensive physical, occupational and speech therapies. Sienna’s parents, along with Jennifer and Chris Iannuzzi, whose daughter was also diagnosed with SMS, founded The SMS Research Foundation in June 2010. The Foundation’s mission is to improve the knowledge and understanding of SMS so that viable therapeutic options can be developed to improve the quality of life for those diagnosed with SMS.

Calling All Fitness Enthusiasts! Smith-Magenis Syndrome (Sms) Research Foundation Hosts The 2nd Annual Sienna’s Steps 5k Run/Walk

On Saturday, May 21, 2011, the Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS) Research Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, will host the Second Annual Sienna’s Steps 5K Run/Walk at Memorial Hospital Miramar located at 1901 Southwest 172nd Avenue in Miramar.

The 5K run/walk course is USATF certified and will be officially timed by Split Second Timing. Awards will be presented to winners in each age division for both male and female. The event, sponsored by Memorial Hospital Miramar, will be Emcee’d by EO Entertainment and include breakfast for all participants immediately following the race. Each pre-registered participant will receive a t-shirt and goodie bag. Race fees are $25.00 for pre-registered participants and $30.00 for race day registration. To register for the 5K Run/Walk please visit www.siennasteps.com or www.SMSResearchFoundation.org.

Participants can also set up an individual fundraising page for the 5K Run/Walk by clicking on “Become a Fundraiser” during the registration process. The person who raises the most money will be awarded with a suite for the Alegria Cirque du Soleil performance at the BankAtlantic Center which includes 24 tickets and underground VIP parking. For any questions, please call Missy Longman at 305.525.9678. Participants are encouraged to pre-register. Pre-registered participants can pick up their packets on May 20th at Runner’s Depot located in the Promenade Plaza at 2233 South University Drive, Davie, FL 33324. Participants can also pick up their packets at the race location the morning of the event. Same day registration begins at 6:30 am and will conclude at 7:15 am. The race will begin promptly at 7:30 am.

Sienna Rose, daughter of Missy and Dan Longman, was born on May 21, 2006. After undergoing open-heart surgery at just four weeks old, she was diagnosed with a rare and chromosomal disorder called Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS). Since then, Sienna has undergone eight more surgeries for various medical complications associated with the syndrome. She maintains a daily routine of intensive physical, occupational and speech therapies. Sienna’s parents, along with Jennifer and Chris Iannuzzi, whose daughter was also diagnosed with SMS, founded The SMS Research Foundation in June 2010. The Foundation’s mission is to improve the knowledge and understanding of SMS so that viable therapeutic options can be developed to improve the quality of life for those diagnosed with SMS. The SMS Research Foundation will award their first grant of $50,000 on May 1, 2011.

Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a chromosomal disorder characterized by a recognizable pattern of physical, behavioral, and development features. It is caused by a missing piece of genetic material from chromosome 17. It is estimated that SMS occurs in 1 out of 25,000 births. SMS is under-diagnosed, but as awareness increases, the number of people identified grows every year. To learn more about the SMS Research Foundation, please visit www.SMSResearchFoundation.org.

Piola Sets Roots In The City 4/19-23/11

Piola Sets Roots In The City
April 19 – 23, 2011, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Piola Restaurants on Miami Beach, Brickell, and Hallandale Beach
Brickell, 1250 S. Miami Ave. (33131)
Miami Beach, 1625 Alton Road (33139)
Hallandale Beach, 1703 East Hallandale Beach Blvd. (33009)

www.piola.it

Piola will unveil a locally inspired Earth Day menu at its restaurants in Brickell, Miami Beach and Hallandale Beach April 19 – 23 to showcase the produce from the Roots In The City Overtown community garden.

Ten percent of Piola’s Earth Day proceeds will benefit Roots In the City, which provides affordable fresh produce to low-income families, public school students, community agencies and homeless shelters in Miami-Dade County.
Apart from the Earth Day menu, Piola’s five-day celebration will include the following at all three Pioloa South Florida locations:
• Roots In The City farmer’s market
• Roots In The City vegetable exhibit
• All Piola customers will receive a bag of seeds (including planting instructions) from the Roots In the City garden at the corner of Northwest Third Avenue and Northwest 10th Street.
• Members of the Piola staff will pick some vegetables to be featured on the restaurant’s Earth Day menu.

Piola – Roots In The City Earth Day Menu
• Pizza Miami Gardens – Mozzarella, tomato sauce, cherry tomatoes, scallions and fresh oregano
• Pizza Coral Gables – Mozzarella, tomato sauce, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes and fresh oregano
• Pizza Homestead – Mozzarella, ricotta, sage, radishes, and rosemary
• Pizza Hallandale – Mozzarella, kale, organic eggs and cherry tomatoes
• Insalata Coconut Grove – Kale, organic eggs, radishes, and smoked salmon
• Insalata Key Biscayne – Mixed greens, scallions, heirloom tomatoes, fresh tuna and fresh oregano
• Penne Virginia Key – Whole wheat penne pasta with extra virgin olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes and basil
• Gnocchi Overtown – Organic La Chipper potatoes, kale, butter, sage and arugula
• Gelato Cutler Bay – Vanilla ice cream, papaya and mulberries

This event is being held simultaneously in three locations.

Elastic Mind Project Intro 4/28/11

Elastic Mind Project Intro
April 28, 6-8 pm
Chima Steakhouse
2400 East Las Olas Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-1529
elasticmindproject.org

Join Mike, Fania and Yamilet at Chima Steakhouse in Fort Lauderdale as we officially launch The Elastic Mind Project

Enjoy complimentary cocktails and hors d’Å“uvres, fabulous raffle items. Get a chance to win a “two night stay” at the fabulous the JW Marriott Hotel in Miami or the Harbor Beach Marriott Resort in Foert Lauderdale
The Elastic Mind Project was founded to find and empower the next generation of great Colombians from the barrios of Bogota.
To learn more about our project or to make a donation please visit our website

www.elasticmindproject.org

The Elastic Mind Project’s goal is to raise $70k for the construction of the EMP community center in the Barrio Codito, in Bogota Colombia The land has already been donated to the cause and our two architects on board are donating the design services for the construction. We need your help to make this center a reality

Michael Capponi Birthday Party The World is Not Enough 4/16/11

April 16, 8:00pm
Yacht Party
Miami Beach Marina

11pm, Afterparty
LIV at the Fontainebleu

The time has come for Michael Capponi’s annual birthday celebration, this Saturday April 16, 2011. This year’s party is a spoof on the two polar opposite lives Michael Capponi leads today. There is Michael Capponi’s life in Haiti, the poorest country in this hemisphere and his other life in South Beach, throwing lavish parties.

This birthday is way over the top! The private yacht, Allure Shadow, is so big that it won’t even fit under MacArthur causeway. The deck on yacht is as large as any dance floor in any club. Upon entering the yacht at the Miami Beach Marina at 8:00PM, you will be taken back to a James Bond experience with all guests dressed in theme.

Shaken not stirred cocktails courtesy of Grey Goose Vodka.
Lite bites will be provided by Aarons Catering.

In lieu of gifts, there is a minimum donation of $150 in advance or $200 at the door for men. Ladies donation is $20. Due to the limited capacity, it is highly suggested to make your donation and reserve your wrist band prior to my party. All monies collected go straight to United Way to help support my Humanitarian Community in Haiti.

At 11:30PM the music stops and everyone heads to LIV for a surprise part II, which will also blow everyone away!

Please make sure to call Michael Capponi’s office at 305.695.4410 in advance. RSVP is required, email rsvp@capponigroup.com.

Remember James Bond attire is mandatory.

PALO! mp3 and Debut at The Stage 4/15/11

Friday, April 15
The Stage
170 NE 38th Street
Miami, FL 33137-3628
(305) 576-9577

PALO! brings the Afro-Cuban Funk to The Stage! – click here for details & RSVP

7pm is the ALS fundraiser, 11pm set is FREE!

Come help raise awareness and funds for the ALS Recovery Fund. Open bar, free food, and PALO! from 7-11.
Afterwards stick around for more live music by PALO! and Dangerflow.
Tickets $50 in advance or $60 at the door. Call Marilyn at 305-513-3350 or 305-799-0999 for tickets in advance.

The Men’s Designer Shopping Party 4/15/11

Friday, April 15th starting at 6 PM
The Men’s Department – On the first floor
1675 Meridian Avenue
Miami Beach, FL 33139

Join your friends from Care Resource as Macy’s and OUT Magazine Fashion Editor, Brent Coover, host the Men’s Designer Fashion Party. Come enjoy an evening of music, refreshments and fashion that will feature the newest collections from Macy’s top Men’s Designers including Hugo Boss, Armani Jeans, French Connection, Papi and more. White enjoying the event, be sure to stop by Zirh for skin treatment tips and a complimentary mini facial. Plus, get your senses going with the Bulgari fragrance. With any $150 purchase of Men’s Designer or Men’s Impulse on day of event, receive $5O off your purchase.*

$10 suggested donation benefitting Care Resource.
*Valid on purchases made at Macy’s South Beach event on 4/15/2011 only.
While supplies last, one per customer. Event Subject To Change Or Cancellation.

City Year Miami & Jumbo’s provide Soul and Soulfood to the Liberty City Community 4/16/11

City Year Miami & Jumbo’s provide Soul and Soulfood to the Liberty City Community
Saturday, April 16th, 2011, 10am – 3pm
7501 Northwest 7th Avenue
Miami, FL 33150

On Saturday, April 16th, 2011, City Year corps members and local business owners team up to revitalize the area around Miami’s historic Jumbo’s Restaurant to promote civic service

A Miami landmark since 1955, Jumbo’s was one of the first restaurants to integrate in 1966 in the midst of segregation. As stated in its Proclamation from the City of Miami, “Through the open mindedness of the management in hopes of making a difference, Jumbo’s became the first restaurant to hire African-American employees in 1967.” Established by Isadore Flam over 50 years ago, Jumbo’s is currently run by his son Bobby Flam, a civic leader and City Year Champion.

City Year Miami is seeking to engage local business owners by providing volunteers clean up storefronts, as well as encouraging them to come out and beautify the area around Jumbo’s. Service projects will include repainting parking stalls, landscaping the entrance of Jumbo’s, trimming grass and removing weeds, amongst other projects. All businesses on 7th Avenue from 62nd to 79th Street are welcome to participate, as this event will be taking place from 10am – 3pm. There will also be entertainment including an African drumline, Bobby Springer, and conga music!

In you are interested in participating, please contact City Year corps member Keshia Powell (786-238-2977/kpowell11@cityyear.org) or Bobby’s business partner Ken Knight (305-305-2699).

We look forward to a great day of service as we recognize what the Sun-Sentinel has called “a social and economic anchor of the community.” Again, this is a surprise for Bobby, so please do not mention this event to him. In the meantime, feel free to enjoy some delicious soulfood at this American Classic and thank you for your support.

Strike Against Child Abuse Bowling Tournament 6/11/11

Strike Against Child Abuse Bowling Tournament
Saturday June 11, 12:30pm – 3:30pm
Bird Bowl
9275 SW 40 St
Miami

Reserve Your Lanes Today: Dorit Matthews 305.960.5536, dmatthews@frcforida.org

Lanes: $350 each [includes shoes and lunch for 4 people]
Reservation Form Link: Let’s Bowl

If you are not available to bowl, please consider purchasing a lane to donate to children living in foster care. Donations are fully tax deductible.

The proceeds of this event will go to support critically important programs aimed at treating and preventing child abuse and neglect at the Family Resource Center of South Florida. For more than 30 years, the Family Resource Center has responded to the growing needs of abused and neglected children in our community by promoting prevention, communal responsibility, and supporting parents by helping them develop the skills and knowledge they need to be nurturing and loving parents.

Sergio Rossi’s Champagne and Shoes Fundraiser 4/12/11

Tuesday, April 12, 6-8pm
Sergio Rossi Bal Harbour
9700 Collins Avenue
Bal Harbour

Socialize and see the latest shoes at a special event in honor of Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program. Sergio Rossi will provide each guest with a $100 gift certificate that you can use for that pair you just can’t live without! Plus, a portion of the evening’s proceeds will benefit the WOT scholarship fund.
RSVP: Beatrice Arias, b.arias@womenoftomorrow.org or 305-371-3330

Network for a good cause thursday at gordon biersch 4/14/11

Starting at 5:00 PM until closing!
1201 Brickell Ave.
Miami, FL 33131

A $10 Donation benefitting the American Cancer Society will
provide you with Happy Hour prices on many drinks and
snacks at Gordon Biersch all evening….

Please come join us for an enjoyable time, network for a great cause and learn more about the all-night events, music, movies and activities planned for Friday’s Relay-for-Life on Key Biscayne!

Namaste Private Sale for charity at the Montclair 4/16/11

Saturday, April 16th from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Montclair
1700 Meridian Avenue, Suite 101
Miami Beach

Namaste, a French-Indian charity that benefits humanitarian initiatives and encourage support for local craftsmanship and defend the structures of NGO’s who advocate fair and equitable work conditions is hosting a Private Sale for the charity on Saturday, April 16th from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Miami Beach at the Montclair, 1700 Meridian Avenue, Suite 101. It’s a perfect opportunity to stock up on Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Holiday gifts while giving back to those who need it. Below please find the invitation as well as further information on the charity and its goals. Visit http://associationnamaste.blogspot.com.

Bring your Item to ITEM. for Fashionably Conscious 4/14/11

Fashionably Conscious for Coconut Grove Cares
Thursday, April 14th, 6-9pm
ITEM. Miami Beach
1673 Meridian Ave
Miami Beach, FL

RSVP: fashionablyconscious@gmail.com.

I hope you will be able to join us and bring friends to ITEM. Miami Beach on Thursday, April 14th for cocktails, shopping, and clothing donation collection for Fashionably Conscious for Coconut Grove Cares–a cause very dear to my heart.

This is a wonderful opportunity to bring out your stellar gently-worn designer donations (clothing, accessories, shoes, belts, bags, etc.) and invite friends to do the same. (Don’t forget we’re including Men’s this year!)

Our host will be ITEM. Miami Beach, the spot for everything modern prep for men and women, so you’ll have plenty of options as you replenish your closet. And the best part is that 10% of the proceeds from the evening will go directly to Fashionably Conscious for Coconut Grove Cares! So start cleaning your closets and please tell your friends. Each item you donate raises funds to create a safe haven and enhance the lives of the children of the West Grove community.

The invitation is attached with all details.

Thank you, and see you next Thursday!

*If you can’t make it on the 14th, please be sure to bring your Items to ITEM during the month of April, and receive 10% off your purchase that day!

NOH8 Campaign Open Photo Shoot in Miami 4/17/11

The NOH8 Campaign Co-Founders Jeff Parshley & Celebrity Photographer Adam Bouska to Hold Open Photo Shoot in Miami
Sunday, April 17, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Trio on The Bay
1601 79th Street Causeway
North Bay Village, Florida 33141

FEE*: Solo Portraits – $40.00
Couple & Group Portraits – $25.00 per person

The NOH8 Campaign (the photographic silent protest created in direct response to the passage of proposition 8) will be holding an open to the public photo shoot in Miami. Anyone that would like to join the NOH8 Campaign is asked to wear a white shirt to math the look of the signature NOH8 photos. Once guests arrive, the NOH8 Campaign will apply the NOH8 temporary tattoo to each persons face and will also supply guests with the silver duct tape for the photo. Celebrity photographer and co-founder Adam Bouska will photograph 5 to 10 frames for each person that comes through. The final selection he chooses will be retouched and make available in 4 to 8 weeks on the website, www.NOH8Campaign.com. Celebrities who have participated include the Kardashian sisters, Cher, Kathy Griffin, Jane Lynch, Pete Wentz, Holly Madison & Guilana Rancic among many others.

*Funds raised by the NOH8 Campaign will be used to continue promoting and raising awareness for marriage equality and anti-discrimination through NOH8’s interactive media campaign. This includes bringing the campaign to other cities around the country, as well as compiling the images for a large-scale media campaign. Under consideration is the expansion of our campaign to other media, including television and radio broadcast, billboards, and magazines. Contributions are also used to cover the daily operations and maintenance necessary to run this rapidly growing campaign.

The NOH8 Campaign is an approved 501(c)(3), donations will be tax-deductible up to the amount allowable by law.

About The Noh8 Campaign
On November 4, 2008 Proposition 8 passed in California, amending the state Constitution to ban same-sex marriage. The defeat provoked a groundswell of initiative within the GLBT community at a grassroots level, with many new political and protest organizations being formed in response. The NOH8 Campaign is a photographic silent protest created by celebrity photographer Adam Bouska (http://www.bouska.net) and partner Jeff Parshley in direct response to the passage of Proposition 8. Photos feature subjects with duct tape over their mouths, symbolizing their voices being silenced by Prop 8 and similar legislation around the world, with “NOH8” painted on one cheek in protest.

Two years since its inception, the NOH8 Campaign has grown to over 10,000 faces and continues to grow at an exponential rate. The campaign began with portraits of everyday Californians from all walks of life and soon rose to include politicians, military personnel, newlyweds, law enforcement, artists, celebrities, and many more. The NOH8 Campaign has received overwhelming support from around the world, appearing on various local and national news programs and publications. The images are currently being used on various social networking sites to spread the message of equality, predominantly Facebook and Twitter. Eventually the images are expected to be compiled for a large-scale media campaign. For more information, please visit: http://www.noh8campaign.com/

Photographs of Transit Antenna Carnival Fundraiser on 4/9/11

Transit Antenna Carnival Fundraiser on Saturday, April 9, 2011.  Transit Antenna is a mobile living experiment conducted by successive teams that travel throughout the US researching off grid systems and making art. On April 9th , a new team from Miami – including the founding editor of ARTLURKER.com – is joining forces with Launch Arte’s Launch Miami Market to host a free community driven fundraiser event with a carnival fair theme in preparation for their embarkation in a vintage Greyhound coach converted to a waste vegetable oil and solar powered motor home.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of First Annual Legacy Gala at The Ancient Special Monastery on 4/9/11

First Annual Legacy Gala at The Ancient Special Monastery on Saturday, April 9, 2011.

About The Ancient Spanish Monastery.  The Historically Designated Ancient Spanish Monastery, widely regarded as the oldest building in the Western Hemisphere, was built in 1133 AD in Sacramenia, Spain. Cistercian monks occupied The Monastery for nearly 700 years. Dismantled and shipped to the United States by William Randolph Hearst in 1925, the Cloisters of The Monastery were reassembled in North Miami Beach, Florida in 1952. In 1953 TIME magazine called The Monastery “history’s biggest jigsaw puzzle” and chronicled the journey and the ancient artifacts of the collection.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs of the Overtown Rhythm & Arts Festival on 4/9/11

Overtown Rhythm & Arts Festival on Saturday, April 9, 2011.  The Overtown Rhythm & Arts Festival, organized, planned and implemented by volunteers from the non-profit group Magic-In-Action and local leaders of the Overtown Community, aims to celebrate the rich history of one of Miami’s earliest settlements.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Feeding South Florida celebrates National Volunteer Week 4/16/11

Feeding South Florida Recognizes Importance Of Volunteerism, Hosts Corporate Volunteer Groups During April 10-16 National Volunteer Week
April 16 Sorting Saturday
Feeding South Florida’s headquarters
2501 SW 32 Terrace
Pembroke Park, FL, 33023

To register to volunteer at the April 16 Sorting Saturday, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Leroy Green at lgreen@feedingsouthflorida.org or (954) 518-1863.

When Volunteers Will Sort, Package, Label, and Weigh Food for Distribution

During National Volunteer Week, April 10-16, Feeding South Floridaâ„¢ (formerly Daily Bread Food Bank) will emphasize the importance of and need for community volunteerism by hosting several corporate volunteer groups, and inviting the media to attend its April 16 volunteer-supported Sorting Saturday from 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Established in 1974, National Volunteer Week recognizes the millions of volunteers who devote their time and efforts to making a difference in the lives of others. During this week, Feeding South Florida honors the thousands of volunteers who help the organization fight hunger and feed hope.

From April 10-16, corporate volunteer groups including Starbucks, Macy’s, Bank of America and YUM Brands will donate their time at Feeding South Florida.

At Feeding South Florida’s April 16 Sorting Saturday, approximately one hundred volunteers will show their support for the organization and National Volunteer Week by sorting, packaging, labeling and weighing food at the organization’s headquarters/warehouse in Pembroke Park. The food will then be distributed to Feeding South Florida’s network of more than 800 other not-for-profitorganizations.

Every year, Feeding South Florida, the largest hunger-relief organization in the state of Florida, provides food assistance to help the 920,000 people struggling with food insecurity in our community. During thepast fiscal year, more than 12,000 people volunteered over 40,000 hours at the organization. In addition to helping Feeding South Florida save time and labor costs, volunteerism helps raise awareness of hunger in the region and promotes community involvement in solving the problem.

Many of the food pantries and soup kitchens served by Feeding South Florida report that they rely entirely on volunteers and have no paid staff. “Volunteer support is invaluable to us at Feeding South Florida,” said Judith Gatti, executive director of Feeding South Florida. “Volunteers help keep our administrative costs low, and as a result, 98 cents of every dollar donated to us goes directly toward feeding the hungry. Without the help of volunteers, we could not be so efficient in distributing food to the community.”

The food insecurity rate for South Florida averages 16 percent, and the average cost of a meal is $2.73, according to Feeding America’s new Map the Meal Gap research.

About Feeding South Florida
Feeding South Florida™ (formerly Daily Bread Food Bank) is a not-for-profit organization that empowers other South Florida not-for-profit 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 our community to fight hunger and poverty. Through alocal network of more than 800 other not-for-profit organizations, Feeding South Florida strives to serve children, the elderly, the mentally and physically challenged, veterans and the working poor with compassion and integrity. Feeding South Florida is a member of Feeding America, the nation’s leading domestic hunger-relief charity. Over 24 million pounds of food is distributed within the community by Feeding South Florida each year. 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.

2011 Beauty Bash U.N.I.T.E. benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure 5/14/11

Beauty, Fashion and Entertainment come together for the annual Beauty Bash U.N.I.T.E, Miami Beauty Show’s official Launch Party and Charity Extravaganza to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Saturday, May 14th, 9:30pm-12:00am
Pink Room
739 Washington Avenue
South Beach

On Saturday May 14th, 2011, Beauty Bash U.N.I.T.E, (Unity Now is a Tomorrow for Everyone) annual event and its founders, Edward J. Oberle and co-founder Matias Schwarz, are looking to bring South Florida’s beauty, fashion and entertainment industry together for a good cause. The Beauty Bash will open with appearances by many Celebrity Stylists from across the Globe.

Jo Blackwell-Preston will host the night. Tiffany Miranda, American Idol’s Contestant, will perform live at 10pm, followed by a riveting fashion week runway showcase.

Susan G. Komen for a Cure is the official charity event of the Miami Beauty Show. The Beauty Bash U.N.I.T.E. 2011 will take place on Saturday, May 14th Meet and Great Pictures 9:30pm, 10 PM Doors Open first hour open bar and show time is at 11PM sharp. It will be hosted at Pink Room, 739 Washington Avenue, South Beach. Tickets are just $20 at the door and $15 in advance (they include for the first hour, open bar and hors d’oeuvres). The totality of the proceeds will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Please visit www.beautybashunite.com or www.komenmiaftl.org, or call 786-285-8417 for ticket sales.

Master of Ceremonies for the Evening: Jo Blackwell-Preston is more then just an Emmy Award winning Colorist. She is an artist, a visionary and innovator. Jo is a lead portfolio color artist and educator for L’Oreal Professional.

In 2003 she was nominated and later inducted into intercoiffure, the international hair styling industry’s most elite organization, whose members are celebrated as the world’s best. Jo also heads up the Color Council for Intercoiffure and has received the prestigious Ordre De La Chevelerie “Knight” award for her efforts. Jo has also been a guest artist numerous times for Hair Color USA, and International Hair Color Exchange.

Jo is the founder and president of the famed DopDop Salon, Soho, New York. With more then 25 years of experience in the world of hair, she has been the driving force behind the DopDop artistic team that represents the newest and freshest talent in NYC.

“Good hair color looks great on the person who is wearing it; great hair color becomes part of the person who is wearing it.” Jo Blackwell-Preston

Special Live Performance by American Idol’s own pop sensation live Tiffany Miranda

Beauty Bash U.N.I.T.E will offer a chance for industry members and the community at large to come together and enjoy a fabulous fashion show presenting Newest Collection by NYC Based Jacqueline Quinn 2011 Recycled inspired Master Pieces and Cesar Rosario latest fashion week collection, followed by a unique opportunity to network and party in style with celebrities and icons such as Bravo’s season’s 2 Shear Genius Winner Dee Adames, Kaz Amor from Hired on MTV. Sherri Jesse, Creative team member of Rusk and Hollywood. Celebrity hair stylist and make up artist Johnny Diol, Proprietor of Studio 61 and Luca Boccia and his Pyure Aveda Team. Beauty Bash U.N.I.T.E, in keeping with the main goal to raise funds, has gone pink with joining forces with Sherri Martens Pink Galas with 100% of the door proceeds benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure in Memory of Linda Martens (1944-2006).

Our Vision – A world without breast cancer.
Our Promise – To save lives and end breast cancer forever by empowering people, ensuring quality care for all and energizing science to find the cure.
Today, Susan G. Komen for the Cure® is the world’s largest and most progressive grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists. Breast cancer is not predictable – it is a random disease. There are no boundaries – age, race, religion, socioeconomic status are not factors. It is the leading cause of death among women ages 40 – 59. Breast cancer strikes women during their most productive years – both personally and professionally. Everyone is affected by breast cancer – it’s a family disease. We don’t know what causes it, and we don’t have a cure. Early detection is critical, providing more treatment options and a greater chance of survival.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure has played a critical role in every major advance in the fight against breast cancer over the past 25 years – transforming how the world talks about and treats this disease. We have helped turn millions of breast cancer patients into breast cancer survivors. With more than $1.3 billion invested to date, Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world’s single largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to curing breast cancer at every stage – from the causes, to the cures, to the pain and anxiety of every moment in between.
Email: info@komenmiaftl.org

Caring about the Strays fundraiser By Betty Alvarez

Caring about the Strays and Tinte Cosmetics held a Martini Party on April 9 at none other than Blue Martini in Brickell. With a $10 donation, guests were glammed to free mini makeovers by Chantal Sauvignon, enjoyed delicious martinis and sumptuous appetizers. They also had a chance to participate in a raffle with all proceeds went to benefit Caring About the Strays.
For more information about this organization please go to www.caringaboutthestrays.com

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

Bass Museum of Art Annual Fundraising Event A Night at the Museum 4/28/11

Bass Museum Of Art To Host Annual Fundraiser, “A Night At The Museum”
Thursday, April 28, 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Bass Museum of Art
2100 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139

Miami Beach cultural landmark presents arts patrons with “An Invitation to LOOK”

The Bass Museum of Art, one of Miami Beach’s key cultural landmarks, along with a select group of the city’s leading arts patrons and philanthropists, will host its annual fundraiser, “A Night at the Museum,” on Thursday, April 28, 2011 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. attracting more than 400 guests with “An Invitation to LOOK/Selections from the Permanent Collection of the Bass Museum of Art.”

While enjoying hors d’oeuvres, GREY GOOSE Vodka cocktails and beats by ESS & EMM, attendees will explore the institution’s new exhibit, “An Invitation to LOOK/Selections from the Permanent Collection of the Bass Museum of Art,” featuring more than 40 works from its permanent collection, including portraits spanning 300 years, painted in varying styles by English, American, Dutch, French and German artists. In addition, a grouping of Impressionist works by French painter Jean-Baptiste Armand Guillaumin shares the galleries with 19th-century Austrian still-life paintings, along with 15th-century devotional works and small etchings by Rembrandt. Selections from the Bass Museum’s impressive group of 14th-century Flemish and Italian altarpieces will join devotional statuary of the Madonna, as well as one of the jewels of the collection, “The Coronation of the Virgin with Saints,” by Botticelli and Ghirlandaio.

The Bass Museum traces its roots back to 1963, when John and Johanna Bass donated their collection to the City of Miami Beach. Through the years, the gift has made great art accessible to thousands of visitors, and “An Invitation to LOOK/Selections from the Permanent Collection of the Bass Museum of Art” provides the opportunity for arts enthusiasts and casual fans to browse a comprehensive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art.

Admission to the fundraising event is $125 for two and includes a Sustaining Membership to the Bass Museum of Art for one year. Existing members at the $125 level or higher receive complimentary admission for two, while those members below the $125 level may upgrade to Sustaining Membership. To RSVP, email rsvp@bassmuseum.org, visit www.bassmuseum.org, call 786.800.6302 or visit the museum at 2100 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139.

“An Invitation to LOOK/Selections from the Permanent Collection of the Bass Museum of Art” is open for viewing from Friday, April 1, until Sunday, July 3, 2011. Museum hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Cost of admission is $8 for adults, $6 for students with identification and free for members and children under six.

Miami Bridge Bridge to the Stars Fundraiser 4/16/11

Virtual Bowling, Billiards and Dancing for Miami’s Only Emergency Shelter for Children and Teens
Saturday, April 16
JW Marriott Marquis Miami

The event is $200 for a single reservation. Anyone interested can call 305.636.3520.

Miami Bridge to Host Highly Anticipated Bridge to the Stars Fundraiser
Poolside soirée to help “build a bridge” to a better future for abused, neglected and abandoned children and teens

As the sun sets over downtown Miami next Saturday, April 16, the ‘stars’ will be out in support of Miami Bridge Youth and Family Services, Inc. Dozens of notable community leaders and activists will be in attendance for the not-for-profit’s 26th annual fundraiser, Bridge to the Stars, taking place at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami hotel. The event, the “must attend” of the season, will be poolside and will feature virtual bowling, billiards, music and dancing.

“This fundraiser, the biggest to date for Miami Bridge, is sure to be one of the most memorable in our organization’s history,” said Mary Andrews, Executive Director of Miami Bridge Youth and Family Services, Inc. “Bridge to the Stars will pay tribute to our network of supporters whose dedication to cause and community has helped further our mission, rescuing those in greatest need from a life of victimization and crime.”

Miami Bridge, the City’s only emergency shelter for children and teenagers ages 10-17, provides critical services to youth in crisis including counseling, family counseling and education. Funds raised through Bridge to the Stars will go toward bolstering that outreach.

Attendees will not only have access to some of the JW Marriott Marquis Miami’s renowned amenities, including its virtual bowling alley, but a silent auction, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

Bridge to the Stars will be co-chaired by Kim Bacardi, Alfred Karram, Jr., Natasha Lowell, Natacha Munilla and Judy Reinach. Sponsors include Bacardi, BenTrust Financial, Coastal Construction Group, Lamar Homes and Thunder Electrical Contractors, Inc.

About Miami Bridge Youth and Family Services
Miami Bridge Youth and Family Services, Inc, a not-for-profit organization operating out of Northwest Miami-Dade and Homestead for more than 20 years, provides emergency shelter, food and counseling for troubled youths and their families. The organization, which acts as a catalyst for new beginnings, works to rescue kids from lives of victimization and crime, and provides them with structure in a stable and nurturing environment. Miami Bridge shelters more than 800 children and counsels more than 550 families every year, providing them with solutions, alternatives and hope. For more information on Miami Bridge or to get involved, call 305-636-3520 or visit www.miamibridge.org.

The American Heart Association Miami-Dade Heart Walk 10/29/11

Mark your calendar for the 2011 Miami-Dade Heart Walk
Saturday, October 29th, 2011
Florida International University
11200 SW 8th Street
Miami, FL

Take steps to improve your cardiovascular health

The American Heart Association is pleased to announce the 2011 Miami-Dade Heart Walk on Saturday, October 29th, 2011 at Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th Street. Co-Chairs for the event are Wayne Brackin, Chief Operating Officer of Baptist Health South Florida and Dr. Narendra Kini, Chief Executive Officer of Miami Children’s Hospital.

The annual Heart Walk is a community-wide event drawing together corporate sponsors, walk teams, individuals walkers, survivors of heart disease and stroke and lifestyle change heroes. It combines fitness and philanthropy as participants take steps toward a healthier lifestyle while simultaneously raising lifesaving funds to combat heart disease and stroke, the No. 1 and No. 3 leading killers; respectively, of American men and women. Proceeds go toward research, education and community programs.

Key sponsors for the 2011 Miami-Dade Heart Walk include national presenting sponsor, Subway and local sponsors, Baptist Health South Florida, Miami Children’s Hospital, Assurant, Celebration Cruise Line, Ryder Charitable Foundation, Tenet Healthcare, TRANE and American Medical Response. The host location is Florida International University.

Last year was a record year for the Miami-Dade Heart Walk raising over $570,000 with more than 9,000 people attending the event. In 2011 the American Heart Association & Volunteer Leadership has a goal of $735,000 with more than 10,000 participants.
Activities begin at 9 a.m. and the Walk begins at 10 a.m. Festivities include a kids zone, health screenings, games, entertainment and a free lunch provided by Subway. To learn more about the 2011 Miami-Dade Heart Walk, to get involved through a sponsorship or walk team, email MiamiHeartWalk@heart.org, call 305.631.4791 or visit: www.MiamiDadeHeartWalk.org.

About the Heart Walk
The Heart Walk is the American Heart Association’s premiere event for raising funds to save lives from this country’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers – heart disease and stroke. Designed to promote physical activity and heart-healthy living, the Heart Walk creates an environment that’s fun and rewarding for the entire family.

This year, more than 1 million walkers will participate in nearly 350 events. Your participation will help us raise, even more in our fight to save lives. Walk with friends, family, coworkers or strangers you’ll bond with along the way. Any way you choose to do it, your heart will thank you for it!

A Cut For Pride Miami Beach Gay Pride 2011 4/10/11

Sunday, April 10, 11am-6pm
Dee & Co. Hair Studio
826 Collins Ave. – 2nd Floor
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone: 305.673.5607
www.deeandcohairstudio.com

Dee & Co. Hair Studio is a proud supporter and sponsor of Miami Beach Gay Pride 2011
and once again we are hosting a Cut-A-Thon to contribute to this great event that brings together the GLBT community and many great organizations associated with it. www.miamibeachgaypride.com

Please join us as we offer haircuts and blow dries at half price, donating 100% of the proceeds to MBGP 2011.

Ladies Hair Cut & Blow Dry: $ 40
Gents Hair Cut: $ 25
50% less than regular price!
Make Your Appointment In Advance As There Will Be Limited Capacity!

Special thanks to our co-sponsors:
www.disantolaw.com
www.funkysexycouture.com

Music by Revolution

Photographs of My Heart Won’t Let You Go: A Photographer’s View of Haiti by Patrick Ferell at AE District on 4/6/11

My Heart Won’t Let You Go: A Photographer’s View of Haiti by Patrick Ferell at AE District on Wednesday, April 6, 2011.  Pulitzer Prize recipient Patrick Farrell has been a professional photojournalist for more than 25 years. His work has taken him to Turkey, Haiti, Cuba and throughout Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Miami bellydancers come together to help bring joy and recovery to an island in Africa 4/10/11

Miami bellydancers come together to help bring joy and recovery to an island in Africa.
April 10, 2011, 7:00pm
Art of Bellydance Studio
1431 Alton road
2nd Floor
Miami Beach FL 33139
www.artofbellydanceflorida.com

Miami bellydancers come together to help bring joy and recovery to an island in Africa.
Studio party and fundraiser at the Art of Bellydance Studio in Miami Beach

Admission:$15
Contact: Alexandra Lenis (305) 695-8720 / (305)525-0074
alexandralenis@yahoo.com

This story spans 21 years and two continents.
On April 10, 1990, a belly dancer Tamalyn Dallal opened the Mid Eastern Dance Exchange, which was the only dance school in South Beach. It was her birthday. little did she know that that studio would spawn international dance stars who would tour the world; including Bellydance Superstars Amar Gamal and Bozenka, plus many more who opened bellydance schools around the globe. Ms. Dallal became well known too, and has left Miami Beach to travel the world teaching bellydance to women from China to Patagonia. One of the popular yearly events, which took place from 1994 to 2007, was an outdoor bellydance festival on Lincoln Road called “Orientalia”. otientalia has also gone global and been produced in Argentina and Hong Kong.

Tamalyn Dallal is also a writer and burgeoning film maker. In the most recent of her three books, entitled “40 Days and 1001 Nights” she traveled to five Muslim countries and lived in each one for forty days. One of the places she lived in was Zanzibar, an island of the coast of mainland Tanzania (East Africa). On this beautiful island she found thousands of heroin addicts. Unbeknownst to her, the young man who was helping her find her way was also an addict.

There were no rehab programs in the entire region. Most people thought that recovery was impossible and that many from this generation were lost forever. But this young man went to a recovery program in Kenya, then came home to Zanzibar and opened his own program. He now has five recovery houses and a sixth on the way. He has helped hundreds of addicts find hope and sobriety.

In July, 2011, fourteen bellydancers from around the world will go to Zanzibar to take a dance workshop and cultural tour with Tamalyn Dallal and her famous protoge, Bozenka. During this time, Tamalyn Dallal and friends will present the Orientalia Festival in a historic Arab fort in Zanzibar. This festival will benefit the drug rehabilitation homes and people will be able to come and learn how their sons can also recover from addiction. It is a festival of hope.

The studio party/performance, on April 10th in Miami Beach will feature 20 bellydancers, including Tamalyn Dallal. Funds raised will go toward producing the Orientalia festival in Zanzibar…Dancing to help Zanzibar become drug free.

Beauty Bash U.N.I.T.E. 5/14/11

Saturday May 14, 9:30 PM end 12:30 AM
Pink Room
739 Washington Avenue

Cost $15 in advance
charge by phone 786. 285.8417
$20 at the door if capacity allows

Benefiting Susan G . Komen Miami /FTL
Presenting Sponsors Emmediciotto and Miami Beauty Show
Official Beauty Media sponsor HOT by Hairs’s
Official Hair Sponsor GK Hair, Spornette International, Surface Hair care, Pyure Aveda, NLCA, Aqua Hair De Fabulous, L’Oreal, Enzo Milano

Special Appreciation to Segio owner of Spanish Leather for Providing Shoes for our Models .

Valet parking available or self parking in City Garage on 7th between Washington Avenue and Collins Avenue at normal hourly rate .

Master of ceremonies for the Evening is Jo Blackwell – Preston Emmy Award Winner

Pink Carpet Pictures with Guest Artist 9 :30 PM -10 PM
Doors Open 10 PM
open bar till 11 PM
with Musician performance by American Idol Pop Singer Tiffany Miranda

11 PM Guest Artist present their Signature Brand Model total look hair fantasy is their creation look to create.
11:20 pm Music performance by American Idol Pop Singer Tiffany Miranda
11:30 PM The Pyure Aveda Team provides all hair and make up for the two runway shows . Designer Jacqueline Quinn 2011 Renewable Collection featuring a Socialite in a dress made with Products provide by Pfizer Pharmaceuticals and other models will be wearing renewable resources form Emmediciotto Mia Color and Crest Combs to name a few of the 20 pieces in her collection.
12 PM Cesar Rosario Collection direct from Fashion Week
A special award presented by Vice Mayor of Miami Beach Michael Gongora

http://www.beautybashunite.com

Trinity Presents the Haiti Philharmonic Orchestra 4/8/11

Friday, April 8
Art Fair at 6PM
Concert at 8PM
Trinity Episcopal Cathedral
464 NE 16 Street
Miami, FL. 33132
Presents The Haiti Philharmonic Orchestra in Concert

$25 in advance/ $30 at the door
All proceeds will go to rebuilding the Music School at Trinity Cathedral, Port au Prince
For tickets: telephone 305-374-3372
www.trinitymiami.org

Sounding Off For A Cure Benefit Concert Featuring The Beach Boys 4/14/11

The Voices Against Brain Cancer Foundation Presents The 1st Annual Florida “Sounding Off For A Cure” Benefit Concert
Thursday, April 14, 7:00 PM
The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theater
1700 Washington Avenue,
Miami Beach, FL 33139

TICKETS: General Admission: $150.00 / VIP Tickets: $300.00
Tickets can be purchased online at www.voicesagainstbraincancer.org or by calling 800.745.3000.

Benefiting the Research & Support of Programs Associated with Brain Cancer
Special Performances by The Beach Boys, Gloria Gaynor, Lou Gramm and The Osmond Bothers

On Thursday, April 14th at The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theatre guests will gather together to raise money to benefit Voices Against Brain Cancer. Voice Against Brain Cancer is a foundation dedicated to finding a cure for brain cancer by advancing scientific research increasing awareness within the medical community and supporting patients, their families and caregivers afflicted with this devastating disease. The foundation’s first event in South Florida, “Sounding Off For a Cure” is the vision of Founder, Mario Lichtenstein, and his family after they lost their son and brother, Gary Lichtenstein, after his battle with brain cancer that sadly took his life in 2003 within the first year of his diagnosis at the young age of 24.

“We’ve lost great minds to brain cancer. Use yours to help us find the cure today.” – Mario Lichtenstein, Founder of Voices Against Brain Cancer.

The star-studded benefit will feature performances by artists whose lives have all been effected by brain cancer including The Beach Boys (Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award Honorees), Gloria Gaynor (Grammy Award Winning Artist), Lou Gramm (Singer & Songwriter & former ‘Foreigner’ lead vocalist), and The Osmond Bothers (People’s Choice Award Honorees). All of the evening’s performances will be accompanied by the Frost School of Music’s Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra. Additionally, performers will make a special tribute to George Harrison, Celia Cruz, Bob Marley and Nara Leão, all of whom have lost the battle to brain cancer. Guests will enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a live and silent auction followed by an unforgettable performance.

Additional event components will include a ceremony for the 2011 VABC Courage Awards which is presented to select individuals who have demonstrated tremendous courage in their fight against brain cancer. Other award recipients will include Joseph D. Rosenblatt, M.D. (Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center University of Miami’s Interim Director), Pedro Martinez (Former Major League Baseball All Star), Jorge Plasencia (Chairman and CEO of República) and Jesse Stoll (son of the founder of Fantasma Productions).

Voices Against Brain Cancer is a non-for-profit public charity/ one hundred percent of the ticket sales and auction proceeds will support innovative research and programs for brain cancer.

Our mission is to find a cure for brain cancer by advancing scientific research, increasing awareness within the medical community and supporting patients, their families and caregivers afflicted with this devastating disease.

Voices Against Brain Cancer was started in memory of Gary Lichtenstein who lost his valiant battle with brain cancer on October 1, 2003. Gary was living in Chicago and working as an options trader at Wolverine Trading when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor in March of 2003. He was 24 years old at the time. After three months of radiation, Gary slipped into a coma from which he did not recover.

Over the past 30 years, very little progress has been made to treat brain tumors. Only with cutting-edge scientific research and funding of clinical trials will we be able to effectively fight this disease. Voices Against Brain Cancer will promote and support this type of research within the medical community by working with those doctors that are committed to curing and treating brain tumors. In addition, the foundation continually works to fund support groups for patients and caregivers.

At this time, brain tumor research is underfunded and the public remains unaware of the magnitude of this disease. The cure rate for most brain tumors is significantly lower than it is for many other types of cancers. Our Foundation is driven by these facts and committed to finding a cure. It is the goal of our Foundation and its supporters to fund the research that will directly impact those affected with brain tumors. For more information, please visit: www.voicesagainstbraincancer.org.

New World Waking Inspired by John Lennon’s Piano 4/10/11

Insignia Presents New World Waking!
A musical journey for peace, inspired by John Lennon’s piano
Sunday, April 10, 4 pm
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church
2750 McFarlane Road
Coconut Grove.
Tickets are $15 and are available on the website or at the event.

Insignia, the vocal ensemble of the Miami Gay Men’s Chorus, will present New World Waking! comprised of songs composed by Steve Schalchlin, inspired when he played the piano on which John Lennon’s created Imagine. The concert takes place on Sunday, April 10th at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Coconut Grove

Imagine. All the people living in peace….No more bullying, gay bashing, self-hatred, transphobia or violence.

It is with this vision that Steve Schalchlin was inspired to create New World Waking.

“New World Waking came together in my mind on the day I was selected by pop star George Michael (and his partner, art gallery owner Kenny Goss) to play John Lennon’s Imagine Piano in the front yard of a house in Olympia, Washington as part of a photographic project,” states Schalchlin on his website. The piano was being taken to places where acts of violence occurred…including the kitchen of Alec and Gabi Clayton, where their son, Bill, had taken his life after a gay bashing.”

“I put my hands where John Lennon’s hands once were, the instrument whose sound inspired the song ‘Imagine’, and I knew in that moment what New World Waking was meant to be: A journey to find a simple song of peace.”

Steve Schalchlin is best known for writing the music and lyrics to two critically-acclaimed, award-winning off-Broadway pop gospel musicals The Last Session and The Big Voice: God or Merman?, written with his life partner of 23 years, playwright and actor, Jim Brochu.

He draws his musical influences from the small town gospel church music he grew up with in Arkansas, along with the Top 40 radio of the late ‘60s/early ‘70s, blues he learned on the Texas Gulf Coast, protest folk and, later in life, musical theater.

Under the artistic direction of Anthony Cabrera, Insignia’s concert reaffirms Schalchlin’s quest and conviction that music can be a vehicle that transcends all boundaries, be they political, religious, ethnic or simply borne out of indiscriminate hatred. It is a journey to find a song of perfect peace, a musical journey styled in pop, salsa, gospel and low down dirty blues. It reflects a desire to effect change, reminding us that we are not alone in our desire and ability to do so.

For further information about Steve Schachlin or New World Waking, visit http://www.newworldwaking.com/

Founded in 1999, Miami Gay Men’s Chorus is an all-inclusive, community-based organization of gay men and gay-supporting people that inspires and changes lives through the power of music. With humor and heart, they proudly entertain their audiences while striving for artistic excellence.

The vocal ensemble Insignia is comprised of singers auditioned from within Miami Gay Men’s Chorus. With a repertoire ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous, Insignia serves as a vehicle for outreach for Miami Gay Men’s Chorus.

Photo Attached: Steve Schalchlin plays John Lennon’s Imagine Piano at the home of Gabi & Alec Clayton, facing a photo of their son Bill, who committed suicide after a gay bashing.
Photo credit: Caroline True.

Dining Hot Spots To Donate Proceeds To Common Threads 4/4-7/11

Dining Hot Spots To Donate Proceeds To Common Threads
5 For 5 Fundraiser To Take Place During Select Days In April
Monday, April 4, 2011 — Spartico at Mayfair Hotel & Spa
Wednesday, April 6, 2011 — Hakkasan, Gotham Steak, Scarpetta, Michy’s, Shula’s Steak House and Red, The Steakhouse during dinner hours at each restaurant.
Thursday, April 7, 2011 — Chowdown Grill (Ticketed event featuring guest chef Jeffrey Brana and GastroPod at 6pm and 8:30pm. Please visit http://ctdinner.eventbrite.com to purchase tickets.)
· Michy’s is located at 6927 Biscayne Boulevard in Miami. For reservations, please call: (305) 759-2001
· Gotham Steak, Hakkasan, and Scarpetta are located at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, 4441 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach. For reservations, please call: 877-326-7412
· Red, The Steakhouse is located at 119 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach. For reservations, please call: 305-534-3688
· Shula’s Steak House is located at 7601 Miami Lakes Drive in Miami Lakes. For reservations, please call 305-820-8102
· Spartico at Mayfair Hotel & Spa is located at 3000 Florida Avenue in Coconut Grove. For reservations, please call 305-779-5113.
· Chowdown Grill is located at 9517 Harding Avenue in Sunny Isles. To purchase tickets for this event, please visit http://ctdinner.eventbrite.com

Some of Miami’s hottest restaurants have partnered with Team F.O.U.R Miami from the Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Miami Group for an exclusive fundraiser to benefit Common Threads. Participating restaurants will donate 5% of their sales in an effort to raise enough funds for Common Threads to add a fifth local elementary school to their program. Participating restaurants include Hakkasan, Gotham Steak, Scarpetta (all located at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach,) Michy’s, Spartico at Mayfair Hotel & Spa, Chowdown Grill, Shula’s Steak House and Red, The Steakhouse.

Current Common Threads funding has allowed for four Miami-Dade County
schools to be a part of the program. Since the program is so successful in offering kids in low socio-economic areas access to nutritional and cooking education, Team F.O.U.R from The Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Miami Group and the five participating restaurants are raising funds in order to add a fifth school to the program. “I am so happy to have such amazing restaurants participating and supporting a cause that is so dear to me,” says Common Threads South Florida Chef and Founder Michelle Bernstein.

Fundraising efforts for Common Threads will conclude with a special event on Saturday, April 9 at Jungle Island called Kids Eat Miami (KEM). KEM involves local restaurateurs and chefs who are focused on healthy eating and offer healthy fare. Tickets are $25 each and will grant visitors full access to the park and Kids Eat Miami. Tickets purchased through Leadership Miami will be $10 off the Jungle Island adult ticket price. For more information and to purchase tickets to this event, please visit www.KidsEatMiami.com

About Common Threads: We teach low-income children to cook wholesome and affordable meals with the belief that through our hands-on cooking classes we can help prevent childhood obesity and reverse the trend of generations of non-cookers, while celebrating cultural differences and the things people all over the world have in common. Common Threads began out of our love of family and good food, two basic ingredients that link all people of this world together. Children who participate in the program arrive at the educational kitchens and embark on a world adventure as they prepare nutritious meals rooted in diverse cultural heritages. For more information on Common Threads, please visit www.commonthreads.org or contact Mimi Chacin, Miami Program Coordinator at mimi@commonthreads.org or call (786) 238- 0963.

Dream in Green’s annual fundraiser made lots of green at their anniversary event by Betty Alvarez

A who’s who of sustainability and environmental finance attended the Dream in Green’s Anniversary fundraiser held on April 1st at the beautiful Palms Hotel & Spa, on Miami Beach. Dream in Green (South Florida’s largest environmental-education non profit) joined Sustainability 2011 with its party-of-the-year, Living the Dream.

The eco-fabulous Palms Hotel generously donated 3-hours of complimentary delectables and cocktails. The 2011 Green Innovators and community leaders who were honored that evening were The Heat Group, Miami-Dade County’s Office of Sustainability, DecoBike and Assurant. Roger Bustamante (of Miami Symphony) set the mood with his bossa nova trio while guests bid on the over-the-top silent auction items. This year, Dream in Green started the bidding early through the pre-event, online auction, at www.dreamingreen.org.

The evening was emceed by Emmy-winning weathercaster, Trent Monge. Dream in Green received a Proclamation from Commissioner Jerry Libbin and the City of Miami Beach and there was also a beautiful art installation of each guest’s ‘green dream’ written on leaves, swaying in the Palms bamboo grove. The beautiful winner of the Miss Green Earth pageant was also in attendance.

All proceeds from this event are going to be used to expand the Green Schools Challenge program in South Florida. The Green Schools Challenge is currently in over 100 schools (K-12) and fosters green citizenship in upcoming generations by promoting energy and water conservation, waste reduction and sustainable community principles.

It was for sure a very special and memorable evening.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011

Transit Antenna Carnival Fundraiser 4/9/11

Saturday, April 9, 12:00pm – 10:00pm
The Palm Lot
140 NE 39th St and NE 1st Court
Miami Design District, 33137
www.transitantenna.com
info@transitantenna.com

Transit Antenna is a mobile living experiment conducted by successive teams that travel throughout the US researching off grid systems and making art. On April 9th , a new team from Miami – including the founding editor of ARTLURKER.com – is joining forces with Launch Arte’s Launch Miami Market to host a free community driven fundraiser event with a carnival fair theme in preparation for their embarkation in a vintage Greyhound coach converted to a waste vegetable oil and solar powered motor home.

The Transit Antenna Fun Fair Fundraiser will be a rare chance to see Miami arts at their weirdest as familiar faces from the community collaborate on a variety of engaging carnival attractions and strange services. Expect rides, games, sideshows, face painting, circus performers, live music, vendors, BBQ and refreshments in a relaxed, family friendly atmosphere.

Come see the coach, meet the team, take a tour and support the cause by learning about the Transit Antenna project, becoming an official underwriter, or just having fun.

Participating artists include: Farley Aguilar, Nick Arehart, Kevin Arrow, Bhakti Baxter, Domingo Castillo, Clifton Childree, Nathan Duvall, Cassidy Fry, Christy Gast, Jason Hedges, Rosie Herrera, Jay Hines, Annie Hollingsworth, Nicolas Lobo, Justin Long, Meatball, Ana Mendez, Federico Nessi, Manny Prieres, David Rohn, Oliver Sanchez, George Sanchez-Calderon, sleeper, Tatiana Vahan, Agustina Woodgate, Juan Carlos Zaldivar.

Performers include: Adam (Needless Records), BREAKFAST, Benton, Christy Gast, Eyelash, Ha Ha Help, The Heart Strings, Holly Hunt, Jesse Jackson, King Pubert, Kool Larhe K, Nags Head, Nosy Mangabes, The President, Simple Simon, Slashpine, Something that will make your mama smile, Trilobites, Viking Funeral.

Informed by group interests and the pearls of the open road, the Transit Antenna project evolves organically within the parameters of a (documented) creative workshop and educational resource. The current mission is to visit off grid projects and contribute to the dialogue on sustainability by applying research on alternative power, waste and agriculture systems in an art context at residencies, institutions, and community events.

Funds are needed for equipment, mechanical repairs and a project fund that will be utilized in the production of interactive public performances, installations and events.

The Transit Antenna Fun Fair Fundraiser is generously sponsored by: Artlurker, Augurari, Bert Rodriguez, Freegums, Locust Projects, Magners Irish Cider, Miami Design District, Min Treats, Primary Flight, Roofless Records, Swampspace, Sweat Records and WVO Deisgns.

MIYO Home hosts chair-ity event to celebrate the launch of MIYO Home Virtual Boutique By Betty Alvarez

MIYO Home is pleased to announce the Chair-ity cocktail event on March 30th, with proceeds benefiting the Juvenile Bipolar Research Foundation. To celebrate the launch of the virtual boutique, MIYO Home commissioned eight local artistic visionaries along with a celebrity interior designer to create a customized MIYO Home Chair. Artists were invited to translate their visions onto a classic design piece – a chair – using the Juvenile Bipolar Research Foundation as a reference of inspiration. The one-of-a-kind chairs will be on display throughout the evening and auctioned off. The auction will begin prior to the event on the MIYO Home virtual boutique and will end at the event; 100% of the proceeds from all eight chairs were donated to the Juvenile Bipolar Research Foundation.

“The Juvenile Bipolar Research is a foundation that is very near and dear to me,” said MIYO Home co-owner and long-time supporter Fati Rosenberg. “It’s the first charitable organization fully committed to the support of research for the study of early-onset bipolar disorder; my ultimate goal is to draw awareness to the foundation and further aid in the study and treatment of this debilitating condition.”

The Chair-ity event took place at the beautiful MIYO Home Zen Garden where the eight completed MIYO Home Chairs were unveiled. Guests gathered while artists share insight on their inspiration as well as why they chose to collaborate for this important cause. On behalf of the Juvenile Bipolar Research Foundation, Dr. Demitri F. Papolos, M.D., Director of Research, was on hand to commemorate MIYO Home and supporters.

Among the eight visionaries who donated their talents were Thom Filicia, celebrity interior designer and TV personality; Seth Browarnik, celebrity lensman; local designer and developer, Mario Egozi; Miami-based European artist, Iran Issa Khan; Coral Gables interior designer, Hillary Scrutis; renowned interior designer, Briggs Solomon; Miami’s most sought after landscape designers, Fernando Wong and Miami-based interior designer, Robert Zemnickis.

About JBRF
The Juvenile Bipolar Research Foundation (JBRF) funds research dedicated to determining the etiology of juvenile-onset bipolar disorder and advancing the state of knowledge about this condition so that more effective treatments can be found. JBRF is committed to the development of early diagnostic protocols thus improving the likelihood of a healthy and productive life for children with bipolar disorder. This mission impacts over 1 million children and their families. For more information on JBRF visit www.jbrf.org

Demitri F. Papolos, M.D. Director of Research
Dr. Demitri Papolos is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City and Co-Director of the Program in Behavioral Genetics. He is also the Director of Research of the Juvenile-Bipolar Research Foundation. His work has been published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, the American Journal of Psychiatry, the American Journal of Human Genetics, and in Molecular Psychiatry.

Dr. Papolos has developed diagnostic tests for bipolar disorder in youth, and implemented online programs for rapid identification, screening of large samples of adequate size for large scale genetic studies, as well as for clinical practitioners.

He is the co-author with his wife, Janice, of The Bipolar Child: A Comprehensive and Reassuring Guide to Childhood’s Most Misunderstood Disorder, Broadway Books, 2000, 2003, 2007), featured on ABC News’s 20/20, the Oprah Winfrey Show and NPR’s, The Infinite Mind. Dr. Papolos has a private practice in New York City and in Westport, Ct.

About MIYO Home
The premier destination to find the latest home design trends, MIYO Home has the signature must-haves with clean lines and a pristine color palette you are looking for to turn your house into a beautiful and stylish home. The essence of the store is created by avid world travelers and their passion for immersing themselves in other cultures. MIYO Home is fully stocked with everything for your home, such as luxurious sofas, natural wood coffee tables, paintings, foreign artifacts, outdoor furniture and much more. These unique pieces are available at an accessible price point.

Unlike other home-furnishing retailers, MIYO Home offers convenient and rapid delivery – within 48 hours of purchase – to make decorating your home seamless. Providing decoration solutions to your everyday consumer, interior designers, developers and architects, the MIYO Home showrooms offer a diversity of designs, in a fraction of the time.

MIYO Home also offers complimentary in-home consulting to all and has taken the guesswork out of interior decorating. MIYO Home experts will come to your house for a one-on-one consultation to develop inspiring design concepts that are tailored to your personal style including indoor and outdoor home needs. The experts will create a custom décor, color palette and layout for your home with the products found at MIYO Home.
For more information on MIYO Home, please visit www.miyohome.com or call 305-576-4170.

Photographs by Betty Alvarez copyright 2011