RA Sushi in South Miami’s 9th Annual Nicky’s Week 5/26/13-6/1/13

RA Sushi in South Miami’s 9th Annual Nicky’s Week
Sunday, 05/26/2013 – Saturday, June 1, 11:00 am –
RA_NW2013_WebGraphic_714x264RA Sushi South Miami
5829 SW 73rd Street,
Miami, Florida 33143
Facebook Link

RA Sushi in South Miami hosts its ninth annual “Nicky’s Week” fundraiser from Sunday, May 26, through Saturday, June 1, during which 100 percent of proceeds from the sale of a variety of menu items such as Edamame, Tootsy Maki roll, Shrimp Nigiri, Pork Gyoza, Chicken Yakitori and Garlic Citrus Yellowtail Tapas, plus select beverages, will benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

The annual fundraiser was developed in memory of St. Jude patient Nicholas “Nicky” Mailliard, of Scottsdale, Ariz., who lost a long battle with brain cancer in February 2005 at the age of 13. As a nephew of one of RA Sushi’s founders, Nicky held a special place in the hearts of RA Sushi associates throughout the organization. RA Sushi initiated the fundraiser to honor the memory of Nicky and to raise awareness and funds for St. Jude, where no child is ever turned away because of a family’s inability to pay for medical treatments.

The Better Than Ever Super Open House Reunion 6/1/13

The Better Than Ever Super Open House Reunion
Saturday, 06/01/2013, 10:00 pm –
mcc_logoMagic City Casino
450 NW 37 Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33125
Webpage Link

Come relive a true Miami 1970’s House Party with the “Better Than Ever Super Open House Dance Reunion” starring entertainer, Peter Fernandez. The audience can expect a spectacular light show by Joe Electro and electrifying dance hits spun by Carlos DJ Sonic.

• Admission to Stage 305 is free.

• Limited VIP tables are available and can be reserved by calling 305-649-3000 ext. 3429.

• For more information, visit www.magiccitycasino.com.

Dr. Noel Tichy Speaks at the Leadership Lectures Series at FIU 6/4/13

Dr. Noel Tichy to Speak at the Leadership Lectures Series at FIU
Tuesday, June 4, 2013 – 3:30pm
College of Business Complex, CBC 232
11200 SW 8th Street.
Miami, FL
register online
lead.fiu.edu

The Center for Leadership at Florida International University is pleased to announce that Dr. Noel Tichy, a distinguished professor, renowned author and an expert at training leaders in Fortune 500 companies, will visit the Modesto Maidique campus on June 4.

Dr. Tichy will deliver a discussion-style presentation and share insights from his most recently co-authored book, Judgment on the Front Line: How Smart Companies Win by Trusting Their People, at 3:30 p.m. at the College of Business Complex, CBC 232 located at 11200 SW 8th Street. The lecture, which is part of the Center’s The Leadership Lectures series, is free and open to the public. A book signing and reception will follow.
Judgment on the Front Line, co-authored with Chris DeRose, focuses on empowering front-line associates to gain unique insight into the customers, competition and inner workings of their organizations.

“We are honored to host Dr. Tichy, a leading management expert with decades of leadership practice and research, at FIU,” said Modesto A. Maidique, president emeritus of FIU and executive director of the Center for Leadership. “Along with his highly-regarded literary contributions and work in academia, his real-world success with some of the world’s top companies has set Dr. Tichy apart.” 

Dr. Tichy is a former professor of Management & Organizations at the Ross School of Business at The University of Michigan. He first gained respect for his work at General Electric in the 1980s, where as head of GE’s Leadership Center, he directed the company’s management education and spearheaded its transformation to action learning. Dr. Tichy later began providing consulting services in both the private and public sectors as a senior partner in Action Learning Associates, where he expanded his clientele to include Best Buy, PepsiCo, Coca Cola, Daimler-Benz, GM, Nokia, Nomura Securities, PepsiCo, Royal Dutch Shell and 3M.

Recognized by BusinessWeek and Business 2.0 as one of the “Top 10 Management Gurus,” Dr. Tichy is highly regarded as a staple of management literacy, having written several articles and books and served on the editorial boards of a variety of management publications. He was also the founding editor and chief of Human Resource Management. 

The Leadership Lectures series, presented by Mercantil Commercebank, features world-class, accomplished and influential leaders with expertise ranging from business and philanthropy to public service and academic research. The main goal of the series is to allow the South Florida community to have access to the expertise, advice and best practices of some the world’s foremost leadership minds.

Curves For C.O.P.E. 5/30/13

Curves For C.O.P.E.
Thursday, 05/30/2013, 05:30 pm – 09:00 pm
Power-Fit-StudiosOpera Tower
1750 North Bayshore Drive,
Miami, Florida 33132
Webpage Link

Powerfit Studios to host “Curves for C.O.P.E.” event with complimentary workouts, massages, hors d’oeuvres, “skinny” martinis and valet parking on May 30, 2013 from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. at Opera Tower. Hall of Famer Andre “The Hawk” Dawson will be on hand to sign autographs and Lisa Remeny and Carl Juste will display fine art, requested donations start at just $20. For more information and to RSVP please email RSVPCurve@gmail.com or call
786-287-8487.

MANO Fine Art presents Part of A Conversation – Reception with the Artists 5/18/13

MANO Fine Art presents Part of A Conversation – Reception with the Artists
Saturday, 05/18/2013, 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
MANO-Fine-Art-presents-Part-of-A-Conversation-e-blast-versionMANO Fine Art Project Space
4225 SW 75 Ave (2nd Flr),
Miami, Florida 33155
Facebook Link

MANO Fine Art presents an extraordinary visual interplay of art and language. The exhibition entitled “Part of A Conversation” features contemporary works by twelve Miami-based artists. The works are as individual as the artists themselves with the common denominator being the combination of text and imagery to create provocative insightful and playful visual dialogues with the viewer. Passages of text, letter forms and remarkable gestural strokes that suggest writing yet remain illegible engage the viewer to “read” the artworks. While other works focus on repetitive patterns, such as linear rows and geometric shapes. Mostly, however, “reading” the artwork encourages viewers to be part of a conversation.

Bird Road Art Walk-May 18th (& every 3rd Saturday) 5/18/13

Bird Road Art Walk-May 18th (& every 3rd Saturday)
Sunday, 05/18/2013, 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Every-3rd-Saturday_edited-2Bird Road Art District
The Bird Road Art District is conveniently located just off of the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) and Bird Road (SW 40th Street). The majority of the studios are located off of SW 75 Ave & SW 74 Ave.,
4225 SW 75 Ave, Florida 33155
Webpage Link

The Bird Road Art District invites you to share their passion for art during the Bird Road Art Walk.

In 2011, Miami New Times ranked The Bird Road Art Walk as Miami’s Best Art Walk. Since then the Bird Road Art Walk has continued growing and has gotten even better. Visitors to the area will find a thriving community of artists who open their studios, galleries, art schools and alternative spaces to the public.

We invite the art-loving public to join us on Saturday, May 18th from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm, for an evening of art and the opportunity to go behind the scenes and meet the artists in their own studios which normally are only open by appointment.

The Art Walk takes place just east of the Palmetto Expressway’s 40th Street Exit and just south of 40th Street (also known as “Bird Road”). Enjoy ample free parking, a complimentary shuttle service and start your Art Walk at any of the participating studios. Click on link for listing: http://www.thebirdroadartdistrict.com/Bird-Road-Art-Walk.html

About the Bird Road Art Walk:
The Bird Road Art Walk is organized by an alliance of artists founded in 2010. The member-powered organization promotes and funds experiences that bring artists, art enthusiasts and collectors together. Events include the monthly Bird Road Art Walk, which features open studios, alternative spaces and creative businesses.

Since the 1980s, the Bird Road Art Districts’ slanted warehouses, antique stores and overall industrial vibe have provided a haven for artists. Today visitors will find a thriving community of more than 40 artists and an up and coming art scene, featuring a broad range of contemporary, emerging and established artists working in a variety of mediums.

Stay Connected with the Bird Road Art District:
phone:l: 305.467.6819
web: http://www.thebirdroadartdistrict.com/
facebook:Bird Road Art District
twitter:@BirdRoadArts

Social Technology: How the Convergence of Marketing and Technology Blazes Pathways to Business Growth 5/23/13

Social Technology: How the Convergence of Marketing and Technology Blazes Pathways to Business Growth
Thursday, 05/23/2013, 06:00 pm – 08:30 pm
The LAB Miami
400 NW 26th Street,
Miami, Florida 33127
Webpage Link

The South Florida Technology Alliance (SFTA) and LAB Miami will host a business technology education program featuring a panel discussion titled, “Social Technology: How the Convergence of Marketing and Technology Blazes Pathways to Business Growth”. The panel moderated by David Carr, Editor of InformationWeek will focus on how dynamic companies are harnessing new social and collaborative communication strategies and tools to drive business growth.

South Florida Technology Summit 5/22/13

South Florida Technology Summit
Sunday, 05/22/2013, 01:00 pm – 09:00 pm
SFL_TECH_SUMMIT_JPGMiami Airport Convention Center
171 Nw 23 Street,
Miami, Florida 33127
RSVP Link

TOP TECH BRANDS TO SHOWCASE NEW TECHNOLOGY AT FIRST ANNUAL
“SOUTH FLORIDA TECHNOLOGY SUMMIT”

Presented by TigerDirect.com and in collaboration with The LAB and Refresh Miami, the free, one-of-a-kind technology summit will feature the latest electronics, keynote speakers, workshops and panels, including RefreshMiami’s “Demo Night”

MIAMI, FL – On Wednesday, May 22, 2013, experience the latest in tech and electronics at the first annual “South Florida Technology Summit” presented by TigerDirect.com in collaboration with The LAB and Refresh Miami. As South Florida’s technology scene continues to evolve and advance, the South Florida Technology Summit, to be held at the Miami Airport Convention Center, is the best place to learn about today’s hottest gadgets and prepare for future advancement with workshops, tutorials, presentations, keynotes and exhibits. Divided into business and consumer portions, the Summit will be open to the public. Complimentary tickets are now available via www.sfltechsummit.eventbrite.com.

Tech enthusiasts, business owners and interested party-goers alike are encouraged to attend this inspiring and information-packed event, as we bring some of the world’s most recognized technology companies together under one roof. Intel, Microsoft, Sony, Dell, Samsung, LG, Toshiba and Canon are among those who will showcase their latest products, some of which have yet to reach the public. Attendees can also expect practitioners from world-class businesses, product executives, top representatives from leading vendors and influencers to be on hand, many of whom will take to the stage to discuss the latest trends and the future of tech.

In addition, the Summit will offer bites and cocktails alongside on-site entertainment including the ultimate personal entertainment experience: Dell’s Ovei Pod, an immersive, state-of-the-art digital media experience capsule that allows users to access, experience, interact with and enjoy any media source including movies and gaming.

Schedule:

1pm – 5pm: Business Hours
Businesses are the emphasis from 1pm to 5pm, complete with dedicated seminars every 30 minutes. This portion will focus on everything you need to know about the latest technology and ideas for your business to make it more productive, enhance the employee/consumer experience and take it to the next level.

5pm – 9pm: Consumer Hours
Consumers will enjoy complimentary food and beverages in addition to all the great gear from 5pm to 9pm, plus the opportunity to win prizes, including laptops and tablets, and speak with today’s most exciting thought leaders in the tech field.

7pm – close: RefreshMiami: Demo Night

RefreshMiami will host their popular “Demo Night”, where 10 local tech companies demo their products and ideas and are given 5 minutes each to do so. Learn about how the world of technology converges with our daily lives as these businesses try to sell their concept to a panel of expert judges. Tickets to this specific event may be attained via link.

The Lab Workshops:

The Lab will host four to six 15-minute workshops throughout the day. Topics will include but are not limited to:

• Product Photography
• Crowd-based Principles
• NFC Technology
• Social Entrepreneurship
• Collaborative Doodling
• Pitching to VCs
• Applying to Accelerators
• Hardware Hacking

The first annual South Florida Technology Summit will take place from 5pm to 9pm at the Miami Airport Convention Center (MACC) located at 777 NW 72nd Ave, Miami, FL 33126. The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are available via www.sfltechsummit.eventbrite.com.

ABOUT TIGERDIRECT.COM
For over 20 years, TigerDirect (http://www.tigerdirect.com) has served the needs of both personal and business computer users, selling consumer electronics, computers, digital media technology and peripherals via catalog, business to business, and Internet channels. TigerDirect is a subsidiary of Systemax Inc.

ABOUT THE LAB MIAMI
The LAB Miami is a 10,000sqft+ work-learn campus for social and tech innovation. Of the 100+ companies already taking space, the LAB Miami’s members range from freelancers, early-stage startups and nonprofits to companies with multiple funding rounds, international VCs, and traditional SMBs. www.thelabmiami.com

ABOUT REFRESHMIAMI
Refresh Miami, a non-profit organization, is the largest grassroots entrepreneurial and technology community in South Florida. Meeting monthly, Refresh regularly attracts hundreds of people who are coming together to improve the startup and technology scene in greater Miami. Over 5,000 members strong, Refresh is a driving force behind the Miami tech scene. www.refreshmiami.com

MEDIA CONTACTS:

THE WORKSHOP
Lorelle Kahn | Lorelle@workshopcollective.com | 305.458.0940
Megan Pope | Megan@workshopcollective.com | 323.397.5667

###

The Wedding Salon 6/10/13

The Wedding Salon
Monday, 06/10/2013, 04:00 pm – 08:00 pm
tabletop2EPIC Hotel
270 Biscayne Blvd. Way,
Miami, Florida 33131
Buy Tickets Link

Come to the Wedding Salon on June 10th in Miami to discover the best resources for your wedding. Indulge in cake tastings by Ana Paz Cakes, cocktails, beauty makeovers with celebrity make-up artists, honeymoon giveaways and fabulous goody bags featuring Fekkai. For a special $15 ticket for you and a guest (a $75 value), RSVP with code MCLP at www.WeddingSalon.com.

Additional Information: Attendee must be engaged, and is allowed one guest only. All parties must arrive together and be 21 and over.

Free Your mind Festival 5/23/13

Free Your mind Festival
Thursday, 05/23/2013, 09:00 pm –
free-your-mind-pax2 PAX Performing Arts eXchange
337 SW 8th street ,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link

Free Like Me
Links

Free Like Me defines the era of “Happiness Music” – causing multiple episodes of ecstatic joy, rampages of gratitude, and flare ups of freedom & unity. With high-energy rhythms, powerful unique vocals and meaningful conscious lyrics. They will take you on a journey of “rootsy”, acoustic, fun conscious sounds! With unforgettable melodies and high energy Rhythms they will have you singing along, dancing and will leave you smiling and wanting more!

Bachaco and Friends Live at Eve WorldSounds Groove Clandestine Party: Special Edition for Peace and Unity 5/17/13

Bachaco and Friends Live at Eve WorldSounds Groove Clandestine Party: Special Edition for Peace and Unity
Friday, 05/17/2013, 08:00 pm – 03:00 am
943419_10151627439422958_1782411026_nEve
1306 N Miami Ave, Miami, Florida 33132,
Miami, Florida 33132
Webpage Link
Tickets: $10 pre-sale – RSVP Here
Ladies Drink Free Until 10pm.
Age Limit: 18+

This Friday, May 17: Miami’s Monthly Clandestine Party.

The best international music and art, Afro-Caribbean Roots Rock, Reggae, Dancehall, Cumbia, ElecTropical and much more!

Bachaco – Reggae-Rock www.bachacomusic.com
Mrpauer – Electropico www.mrpauer.com
Free Like Me – World Fusion www.freelikeme.com.au
TAMBOKA – Afro-Caribbean Soul https://www.facebook.com/1Tamboka
Kulcha Shok DJ – Reggae www.kulchashok.com
Venezuela Vigente – Apoyando la PAZ en Venezuela www.venezuelavigente.com

Photographs of Ultimate Miami Dessert Competition featuring Rob Schneider at Magic City Casino 05/04/2013

ULTIMATE MIAMI DESSERT COMPETITION FEATURES ROB SCHNEIDER

Rob Schneider performed at the Ultimate Miami Dessert competition where finalists will competed for a cash prize of $5,000 and the title of Ultimate Miami Dessert on Saturday, May 4  at Stage 305 at Magic City Casino – 450 NW 37 Avenue in Miami, FL 33125.

The panel of judges at the Ultimate Miami Dessert competition included Where Magazine South Florida editor, Aurora Rodriguez, and radio personality and co-host of 610AM WIOD’s South Florida’s First News, Manny Munoz.

For more information on and other event details, visit www.theultimatemiami.com or call 305-631-4536.

 

Shelley-Frievalt

Ultimate Miami Dessert 2013 - Shelley Frievalt

 

Photographs of Ultimate Miami Comedian featuring Jon Lovitz at Magic City Casino 05/03/2013

Miami’s Ultimate Comedian Forrest Shaw Crowned

Emmy nominated comedian, Jon Lovitz, performed at the Ultimate Miami Comedian competition where finalists competed for a cash prize of $5,000 and the title of the Ultimate Miami Comedian.  The event took place on Friday, May 3 at 9pm at  Stage 305 at Magic City Casino.  The panel of judges at the Ultimate Miami Comedian included Where Magazine South Florida editor, Aurora Rodriguez and radio personality and co-host of 610AM WIOD’s South Florida’s First News, Manny Munoz.

Forrest Shaw killed it, he was absolutely hilarious, joking about the onerous cost of organic food ( Do I want the $2 poisoned grapes or the $20 non lethal grapes….) and how his cock looks now compared to 20 years ago.  He earned the cash he took home that night without having to resort to sexual favors. This heralded local comic who has toured the country opening for the deliriously funny Jim Jefferies will be moving to LA and will be sorely missed. We have a feeling we will see this funny bastard in the national spotlight quite soon. Good Luck Forrest.

Forrest-Shaw

Ultimate Miami Comedian 2013 - Forrest Shaw

 

Photographs from The Arc of South Florida’s Summer Spree Auction by Mr Q 305

The Arc of South Florida held their Summer Spree Auction which is the hottest travel and leisure auction in town, sponsored by American Airlines on Friday May 10th, 2013 at the Marriott Miami Airport.

1BQ_5712
Auctioneer Michael Guyer in action.
1BQ_5517
Dwayne Wade autographed photo. Among the may items in the silent auction.

Auctioneer Michael Guyer, was in charge of the live auction. There were also hundreds of silent auction items.

The auction featured a wealth of vacation packages and short getaways, great restaurants, passes for cultural and sporting activities and events, wonderful goods and pampering services.

There was a spectacular trip to Argentina with stays at Lois Suites in Buenos Aires and at Iguassu Falls and Design Suites in Bariloche, there were trips to the colorful Caribbean hosted by Point Grace Resort & Spa in the lush Turks and Caicos island, all including round-trip air on American Airlines. Ten nights around California, also with air on American Airlines, featuring stays at the Marriott San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, Marriott Anaheim, Marriott Santa Ynez Valley, San Francisco Marriott Marquis and Courtyard by Marriott Vallejo Napa Valley. Other land-only offers included “A Week in La Belle France with stays at several Marriott hotels,” “Savor the Flavor of Brazil” with stays at the JW Marriott Rio and the Renaissance Sao Paulo, a Portugal one-Week Escape at the Four Seasons Fairways in Algarve,” and an African Safari among others. Shorter stay trips included the Marriott Athens Ledra, Marriott Copenhagen, The Stones Hotel Legion Bali and many more international and national trips.

Closer to home there were a large number of restaurants offering gourmet dinners, cultural affairs and concerts and much more.

Every dollar raised at the event (tickets sales, auction proceeds) will go directly to The Arc of South Florida’s programs for Adults and Children with Intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Arc of South Florida is a local chapter of The Arc, one of the largest volunteer organizations in the U.S. Founded in 1953 by a group of concerned parents, The Arc of South Florida serves the over 60,000 Miami-Dade County citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc of South Florida’s two-fold purpose is to ensure the rights of all persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities through ongoing advocacy, and to provide specialized programs and services to help individuals lead meaningful and fulfilling lives. The Arc of South Florida has programs in ten locations throughout Miami-Dade County, employs over one hundred seventy individuals, and serves hundreds of participants and their families on a daily basis. For more information visit their website www.arcsofla.org

MrQ305 on fb

11th Annual Florida International University Scholarship Fishing Tourament 6/1/13

11th Annual Florida International University Scholarship Fishing Tourament
Saturday, 06/01/2013, 07:00 am –
Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center
1635 North Bayshore Dr.,
Miami, Florida 33132
Webpage Link

The Florida International University Scholarship Fishing Tournament is a one day, offshore tournament featuring fishing for Dolphin. The University’s Alumni Association organizes this event and the NET proceeds go towards a scholarship program for students of the University.

Join FIU alumni and the community on Saturday, June 1st for the 11th Annual FIU Scholarship Fishing Tournament! This event is a one day, offshore tournament featuring fishing for dolphin, with fun fish, lady angler, and Jr. angler categories.

The tournament serves to raise funds for student scholarships. FIU alumni, students and members of the community are all welcome to participate.

If you’re interested in registering a team you can do so at FIUalumni.com/fishing. The cost is $350 per boat (includes 4 anglers). Additional anglers are $50 each.

If fishing isn’t your thing, you can still participate in the family fun dock party! It will be hosted at the Sea Isle Marina, starting at 2:00 pm. The dock party will consist of music, live entertainment, food, beverages and activities for all to enjoy.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Paulina Muñoz at munozpau@fiu.edu.

For the all the latest information on the tournament, visit the event’s Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/events/489429094445448.

Photographs from Brew at the Zoo 05/04/2013

Miami’s largest beer festival returned last weekend, showcasing 100-plus local, international, and craft beers, live national acts, interactive games, animals, food and fun! New Times Brew at the Zoo featured national touring acts like Naughty by Nature, with hits like O.P.P and Hip Hop Hooray, performed live as well as Uncle Luke live on stage. 

 

Double Cross Vodka Seasonal Drink Food Mixology Event at Seasons 52

I have been to my share of mixology/food-drink pairing events, but nothing could compare to the one I recently attended at Seasons 52. The Double Cross Vodka (DCV) “Seasonal Drinks/Seasonal Food” mixology pairing was an experience that left me feeling that perhaps I had a hidden passion that, until now, I didn’t know existed in me: making cocktails!  The “beautiful and aromatic combinations of natural and fresh products” – as mixologist and creator of Edible Drink, Cricket Nelson, puts it – “allows the flavors and aromas come to life on your pallet.”

The evening began with a reception offering a variety of signature flatbreads paired with the Afternoon Tea Punch; a combination of DCV, Earl Grey Tea, orange blossom honey, and fresh sour orange and lemon juices, all elegantly garnished with edible flowers. It was a smooth delight in my mouth, and, yes, it was as delicious as it reads.

As we sat to enjoy what would become one of the most exciting evenings of my life, we were greeted at our table by magical, little black gift bags that included the instruments we would use for our interactive mixology journey.  The essentials were: one Double Cross Vodka shaker tin, one wooden muddler, a comfy, cotton Double Cross Vodka t-shirt (to wear right after the event as someone with proud “school spirit” would) and a pair of sunglasses…I’m guessing to be worn the day after a Double Cross Vodka party because it’s so good you really can’t get enough of it. On the table we found a double funnel, a bar spoon, a strainer, all the cocktail glasses we would need for the different drinks we were making, water, soda water, a centerpiece of fresh basil and mint leafs, a bucket of ice with an ice scoop and, of course, a big ol’ bottle of Double Cross Vodka.

A brief class on the origins and the making of DVC was clearly explained by Marita Leonard, Florida Sales Manager for this brand.  After her comprehensive introduction, the fun of mixology began.

We were asked to prepare the first ingredients that would become the base of the flavors of a Thai Cucumber party in my mouth.  These included: one tiny scoop of stevia, four slices of cucumber, one slice of jalapeño, and one shredded fresh leaf of basil.  Then, we muddled. After we confirmed that the ingredients looked like cucumber puree, we then proceed to serve 1.5oz of water, 3/4oz of fresh lime juice, 1.5oz of DCV and lastly, we added the ice. After all these steps are successfully completed, you close the shaker tin and, well, you shake. You shake away. Then you open the shaker tin. Serve. Drink. Enjoy. This first course cocktail was paired with perfectly cooked scallions and encrusted scallops with a toasted, semi-spicy sesame glaze; another Yummy combination.

The event went on to our second course, this time, as professional shaker tin mixers as we had become, we included all the ingredients necessary to make our second cocktail of the night, Lemongrass Cooler. This included a combination of DCV, lemongrass, lemon juice, ginger, coconut palm sugar and soda water.  This was paired with a delicious piece of painted tuna with lobster cremini ravioli and red Thai curry sauced.  Heaven!

Lastly (and sadly), we concluded the night with a Seasons 52 Indulgences platter, an assortment of mini decadent desserts that included treats from Chocolate Peanut butter Mousse to Key Lime Pie, Mocha Macchiato, Pecan Pie with Vanilla Mousse, Seasonal Fruit Cheesecake, Belgian Chocolate Rocky Road and market fresh fruits served (guilty-free) in cute, small shot-size glasses. These were paired with a DCV Mocha Indulgence drink which consisted of a shot of DCV, agave syrup, fresh espresso, warm milk foam, all served in a dark chocolate cup (literally a cup made out of dark chocolate) with cinnamon dust. Needless to say, I was a very happy guest.

A big, Thank You, to Seasons 52, Field Sales Manager, Denise Erwin, Florida Sales Manager of Double Cross Vodka, Marita Leonard, Mixologist and creator of Edible Drink, Cricket Nelson, and of course, my wonderful friend, Gloria Burns of Community Newspaper for the kind invitation.

For more information: www.doublecrossvodka.com

photo

 

RefreshMiami: Demo Night May 2013 5/22/13

RefreshMiami: Demo Night May 2013
refreshWednesday, May 22, 2013, 7:30pm
Miami Airport Convention Center
711 NW 72nd Ave
Miami, Florida 33126

RSVP here

Lets get that entrepreneurial blood boiling!
Last month we showed almost 400 of you how to start you business with Lean Startup & Lean Analytics.

This month, come and see a bunch of -=Local=- entrepreneurs ready to pitch their hearts out to you! Join us, see what comes out of hard work, dedication, and sweat equity can do.

The Gist…
5 Companies
5 Minutes of Pitching
5 Minutes of Judge Feedback
Epic Prizes..

5 companies go into the thunder dome, one comes out…
We’re partnering with the South Florida Technology Summit to make this one of our biggest shindigs EVER!

Free Food, Free Beer, Free Wine, and Free Networking..
What more could you ask for?

Do you have a startup or product you’ve built?
Don’t worry, you can still submit your business to pitch here.

Magic City Casino Presents a Free Concert By Aaron Carter 5/18/13

Magic City Casino Presents a Free Concert By Aaron Carter
Aaron Carter JPEG 2013Saturday, May 18 at 9pm
Secada’s Lounge at Magic City Casino
450 NW 37 Avenue
Miami, FL 33125

Aaron Carter, the youngest male solo artist to have four Top 40 singles, has toured with musical powerhouses including Britney Spears and the Backstreet Boys (his brother, Nick Carter, is a member of the Backstreet Boys). A pop and hip-hop singer from Tampa, Florida, Carter rounded out his skills as a performer by working on Broadway as an actor and as a cast member on “Dancing with the Stars.” His best known hits include “Crush on You,” “I Want Candy,” “Aaron’s Party (Come Get It)” and “That’s How I Beat Shaq.”
·         Admission to Secada’s Lounge is free and includes complimentary upper level seating. 
·         Limited VIP tables are also available and can be reserved by calling 305-649-3000 ext. 3429. 
·         Secada’s Lounge, the most intimate of three stages at Magic City Casino, has presented acclaimed artists ranging from Grammy Award winner Jon Secada to the iconic 1960’s band, Jefferson Starship.
·         The Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Festival, a free event, will also take place from 5pm to 10pm this evening, featuring 20 of South Florida’s most popular food trucks serving a range of gourmet specialties.
·         For more information, visit www.magiccitycasino.com.

Photographs and Review of Cochon 555 at the Four Seasons Hotel Miami

 

The EDGE Steak Bar Prevails at Cochon 555

 

PrincePorc

If you are a swine lover, a bad Jew or just Cuban, you are going to feel like a jackass for missing Cochon 555 this past Sunday April 21st. Cochon 555 returned to Miami a second year in its five year history at the Four Seasons in Brickell. The traveling tour  gathers five chefs, five pigs, and five wineries at ten cities throughout the country promoting sustainable farming of heritage breed pigs. This gourmet exquisite tasting featured five of Miami’s most talented chefs in an epic pork cook off competition.  Each chef had to prepare dishes using an entire 200 pound heritage-pig from snout-to-tail. Both judges and attendees voted for their favorite. The competing chefs were: EDGE Steak & Bar  Aaron Brooks, Timon Balloo from Sugarcane, Jeffrey McInnis from the gem Yardbird, David Thomas of the trendy SLS’s The Bazaar and Cesar Zapata of The Federal.  Even if you’ve never been a fan of “the other white meat” with a line-up like this, this would have been the place to try it.

The well-deserving Chef Aaron Brooks of EDGE Steak & Bar destroyed the competition and took home the trophy. In addition, guests were treated to wines from five boutique family-owned wineries including Elk Cove Vineyards, Bethel Heights,Hamacher, Montinore, and Alloro. As well as tastings from Vibrant Rioja, Anchor Brewing, Eminent Domaine, Crispin Cider and the delectable Kerrygold Cheese. Their Dubliner Cheese with Irishstout and Cashel Blue Cheese were both magnificent.

Its refreshing to attend a food competition where the judges have sophisticated palates that actually concur with our own. All five chefs had awesome food but only EDGE had zero misses. Everything they served was stupendous and earned first place by a mile. Besides the food being marvelous, they were fully stocked with a full sampling of all dishes the entire night. Other teams were incessantly missing dishes and racing to get them out, some never to be restocked, to our disappointment.

Winning platterSince EDGE was beyond sensational we are going to highlight every glorious dish they graciously served up. They started with a head cheese pastelito. The pastry was the perfect balance of salty meat and sweetness. The highlight was a deliriously addictive kielbasa that was easily, the best dish of the night. The kielbasa was served on a skewer with a cube of pink lady apples, smoked maple syrup and mustard. A porchetta sandwich with shaved foot, pickles and habanero jelly was solid, as well. Next up, was a mix of clam & pork with roasted garlic, three chilis and coconut. The way all the tastes intertwined in a savory eye-opening fashion was heavenly. There was a scrumptious smoked pork rib chili with blue cheese and fried tortillas. For dessert, an appetizing hot chocolate bacon brownie with chocolate ice cream and piggy crumbs. Kudos to Chef Aaron Brooks and his team. Flawless Victory!

We adore the Yardbird. It’s one of our favorite spots. We thought its addictive corn dog (cornmeal crusted head cheese pate with adorable tiny tubes of pork rendered dijonnaise) was the second best dish of the night. The cheese and relish stuffed mortadella dog was quite tasty, as well. They were our second favorite pork outlet.

The Bazaar by far had the most inventive dishes but only two really stood out — The butifarra fabada (Spanish style sausage, cannellini beans and cilantro) and their oaxacan chocolate, smoked lard and salt chocolate bars. They were quite creative with the bourbon and bacon cotton candy and dragon’s breath pork rinds.

Sugarcane had a scrumptious dish with its sticky rice wrapped in lotus (char Sui loin, soy marinated bacon and homemade Chinese sausage). We unfortunately never got to try their Vietnamese bun with lemongrass and tea smoked pig butt, steamed pork meatball and chili pig ear but we hear it kicked major pig ass.

The Federal also had some great dishes with its Chicago hotdog (mortadella mousse, tomato jalapeño relish and spicy mustard) as well as their cracker jacks (lard popped popcorn, salty whiskey caramel, pork skin, peanuts, cocoa nibs and chiplote).

The fest was ridiculously fun. Phenomenal food, drinks and cool people all out for a great cause. Your sexy Shedonist was blowing nitrogen smoke with Deco Drive’s Louis Aguirre and Maria the Foodaholic. There was a piggy photo booth, a cocktail competition, a tartare bar manned by Todd Erickson of Haven Lounge (one of our favorite spots in Miami), a pig was butchered and auctioned off and even a game of “Pin the tail on the Piggy.” Chef Brooks will have a chance to compete against the nine other winners at the Cochon Championship in Aspen. We probably will not be able to make it there to show our support, but based on his stellar showing he has a great shot at taking home the golden pig.

 

 

 

The HYPE on Hospitality and Tourism 5/16/13

The HYPE on Hospitality & Tourism
hypeThursday, May 16, 2013, 5:30pm
Balans & Miami Innovation Center
1951 NW 7th Avenue
South Tower, 8th Floor
Miami, FL 33131
Located in the new Miami Health District, adjacent to Wynwood

Advance Registration
$20 members | $25 nonmembers
On-site: $30 per person
Registration Link
For information contact: Crystal Renta, 305-577-5486, crenta@miamichamber.com

HYPE Miami®, the young professionals committee of the Greater Miami Chamber, invites you to a panel discussion featuring industry experts who will explore hotels, restaurants & conference centers and how their
ratings and future development, respectively, may generate larger
revenue into the South Florida economy; cruise lines and their strategy to overcome competition from other ports; and the benefits
of sports on Miami-Dade’s economy.

Speakers:
Economic Agency:
Rolando Aedo, Senior Vice President, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
Wendy Kallergis, President, Greater Miami Beaches & Hotel Association

Private Industry:
Marcus Bach Armas, Corporate Affairs Manager, Miami Dolphins
Aurelio Lopez, Associate Vice President, Royal Caribbean
Abe Ng, Founder and CEO, Sushi Maki Restaurants
5:30 p.m. Registration & Reception
6:30-7:30 p.m. Program

Florida Supercon 2013 7/4/13-7/7/13

Florida Supercon 2013
fscThursday, July 4: 11:00am – 3:00am
Friday, July 5: 10:00am – 3:00am
Saturday, July 6: 10:00am – 3:00am
Sunday, July 7: 10:00am – 3:00am.
The MACC
711 NW 72nd Ave
Miami, FL 33126.
www.floridasupercon.com
Tickets start at $25 in advance and $30 at the door

South Florida’s Largest Comic Book, Anime, Animation, Video Game, Fantasy, Sci-Fi and Pop Culture Convention
Over 350 Guests including George Takei, Adam Baldwin, The stars of The Walking Dead, The stars of Comic Book Men, 20th Anniversary Power Rangers Reunion, and some of the biggest names from the world of Comic Books, Anime, Animation and Science Fiction descend on Miami 4th of July weekend

Florida Supercon returns for four full days of fun. The eight year old event is South Florida’s largest geek event, and will be attended by upwards of 20,000 fans and features over 350 comic book, film, television, stage, music, and anime guests. There will be over 1,000 events, including celebrity Q&A’s, industry panels, writing workshops, video game tournaments, bands, dance parties, cosplay contests, cosplay photo shoots, Florida Super Championship Wrestling, and much more! This year’s music festival will feature over 50 national and local bands. Florida Supercon is the largest cosplay event in South Florida, with thousands of cosplayers in attendance, offering dozens of events and competitions.

Just some of the over 350 guests already announced include:
George Takei – Star Trek (Mr. Sulu), Heroes (Kaito Nakamura)
Adam Baldwin – Firefly (Jayne Cobb), Chuck (John Casey)
Chandler Riggs – The Walking Dead (Carl Grimes)
Laurie Holden – Star of Walking Dead (Andrea), The X-Files (Marita Covarrubias)
Jason David Frank – Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (Tommy, The Green Ranger)
Al Plastino – Legendary Artist of Superman and Batman, Co-Creator of Supergirl
Dave Gibbons – Legendary Artist and Co-Creator of The Watchmen, Give Me Liberty
The Comic Book Men – Stars from AMC’s Comic Book Men
Andrew Hussie – Creator of Homestuck, MS Paint Adventures
Jeremy Shada – Star of Adventure Time (Finn), Batman: The Brave and the Bold (Robin)
Hynden Walch – Star of Adventure Time (Princess Bubblegum), Teen Titans (Starfire)
Veronica Taylor – Star of Pokemon (Ash Ketchum), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (April O’Neil)
MC Frontalot and Green Jelly – Musical Headliners

Top Writers and Artists from the Comic Book industry, such as Olivier Coipel (Artist of The X-Men, The Avengers), Nick Cardy (Legendary Comic Book Artist of Teen Titans, Aquaman), Ron Garney (Artist of Spider-Man, Uncanny X-Force), Tony Harris (Artist of Starman, Ex Machina), Tony Bedard (Writer of Green Lantern, Blue Beetle), Allen Bellman (1940’s Captain America Artist), Georges Jeanty (Artist of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Braden Lamb (Artist of Adventure Time), Clay Mann (Artist of X-Men, Gambit), Rick Remender (Writer of Uncanny Avengers, Captain America), George Perez (Classic Artist of Superman, Teen Titans, Wonder Woman, The Avengers), Shelli Paroline (Artist of Adventure Time), Brad Walker (Artist of Superman, Guardians of the Galaxy, Green Lantern) and many more!

More stars of film and television, including Dichen Lachman (Dollhouse, Being Human, Last Resort), Traci Lords (Blade, First Wave), Theodus Crane (The Walking Dead), Travis Love (The Walking Dead), Erin Gray (Buck Rogers, Silver Spoons), Jim Kelly (Enter the Dragon), Priscilla Barnes (Three’s Company), Jett Lucas (Star Wars) and Jennifer Spence (Continuum, Stargate, The 4400).

More stars of Animation and Anime, including Richard Horvitz (Invader Zim), Brittany Karbowski (Soul Eater, Full Metal Alchemist), Gregg Berger (Transformers, G.I. Joe, Star Wars Clone Wars), Garry Chalk (Transformers, G.I. Joe), Dan Gilvezan (Spider-Man and his Amazing Friends, Transformers), Larry Kenney (Thundercats), Morgan Lofting (G.I. Joe, Transformers), Brina Palencia (One Piece, Spice and Wolf), Hal Rayle (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Transformers, G.I. Joe), Dana Snyder (Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Venture Brothers), Eric Stuart (Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh!) and Stephanie Young (Claymore, One Piece).

A very special 20th anniversary reunion of stars from Mighty Morphin Power Rangers w/ Jason David Frank (Tommy Oliver), Walter Jones (Zack Taylor), David Yost (Billy Cranston), Robert Axelrod (Lord Zedd), Barbara Goodson (Rita Repulsa) and Richard Horvitz (Alpha 5).

Wrestling Legends such as Sgt. Slaughter, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Raven, Kevin Sullivan and Greg Valentine.

Some of the highlight events include Q&A’s with each of our guests, the FSC Costume Competition (with over $3,750 in cash and prizes), Florida Super Championship Wresting, the FSC Masquerade Costume and Performance Competition ($1,000 Grand Prize), FSC Masquerade Ball – An Evening at the End of Time and Space (Dr. Who themed), Video Game Industry Workshops, VIP parties, Writer workshops and much, much more!

Photographs of Philanthrofest Volunteer Appreciation Party at Soyka on 4/23/13

Philanthrofest Volunteer Appreciation Party at Soyka on Tuesday, April 23, 2013.

PhilanthroFest featured more than 100 South Florida non-profits and community agencies, art, music and dance entertainment, a kid’s zone, a community stage, healthy living section, and other family friendly attractions.

PhilanthroFest’s goal includes providing educational resources to non-profits in the areas of social media and on-line engagement, digital marketing and web development. PhilanthroFest creates collaborations between public/private partners and industry experts to create the PhilanthroFest Non-Profit Community Engagement Institutes, educational workshops and hands-on learning opportunities that help strengthen non-profits’ communications strategy, donor loyalty and volunteer engagement. PhilanthroFest helps non-profits excel while connecting the community to their cause.

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Photographs of Miami Rum Renaissance Festival Grand Tasting at Miami Airport Convention Center on 4/20/23

Miami Rum Renaissance Festival at the Miami Airport Convention Center on Saturday, April 20, 2013.  We got to sample more than 200 fine rums from all of the world. Such an amazing time so if you did not make it this year I hope to see you next year.

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Honey Shine 11th Annual Hats Off Luncheon 5/7/13

Honey Shine 11th Annual Hats Off Luncheon
honeyshineTuesday, May 7, 2013, 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Jungle Island
1111 Parrot Jungle Trail
Miami, FL 33132
Tickets to the luncheon cost $125 and memberships to Honey Shine begin at $250.
RSVP rsvp@honeyshine.org or (305) 854-2444

Honey Shine, a mentoring program and not-for-profit organization that encourages girls and young women by enlightening their paths and empowering their futures, announced today the return of its 11th Annual Hats Off Luncheon at Jungle Island’s Treetop Ballroom at 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 7. Each year Tracy Wilson Mourning, founder of Honey Shine, along with current Lady Bug members and friends of the program, don their favorite hats and attend the luncheon, which serves as the premier fundraising event to continue enriching the lives of the young girls enrolled in the program, known as the “Honey Bugs.” This year’s luncheon features award-winning journalist Louis Aguirre, anchor of DECO Drive and WSVN TV FOX 7 and two of Honey Shine’s Honey Bugs, Yolanda Jiron, age 18, and Quanthavia Stalworth, age 17. Miss Stalworth and Miss Jiron will also share their personal stories of success and serve as Mistress’ of Ceremonies.
 
More than 600 guests will enjoy the theme of this year’s luncheon, “Peace, Love, Honeyshine,” which boasts colorful, retro chic 60’s décor, a welcome reception, a silent auction featuring designer and vintage handbags, vacation stays, jewelry and more, a luncheon, and the always-anticipated “Honey Bug” Showcase – a catwalk fashion show sponsored by Aventura Mall that features select Honey Bugs, who have exemplified exceptional participation and improvement in grades. Participating models will be outfitted by Gap retail stores, who will showcase its casual Spring/Summer collection and Bloomingdale’s who will also donate items from its current spring collection. Guests are encouraged to dress casual chic and participate by wearing their favorite hats.

The Arc of South Florida’s 18th Annual Summer Spree Auction sponsored by American Airlines 5/10/13

The Arc of South Florida’s 18th Annual Summer Spree Auction sponsored by American Airlines
Friday May 10th, 2013, 5:45 p.m.
Marriott Miami Airport
1201 NW Le Jeune Road
Miami, FL
Tickets are $75.00 save $10.00 by pre-registering
www.summerspreeauction.com
305-759-8500 ext. 141. 

Food, hors d’oeuvres, wine, exciting raffle prizes, a thrilling live Auction featuring worldwide trips with Auctioneer Mr. Michael Guyer, and hundreds of silent auction items.

The auction features a wealth of vacation packages Argentina and short getaways, great restaurants, passes for cultural and sporting activities and events and wonderful goods and pampering services.  How about a trip to spectacular with stays at Lois Suites in Buenos Aires and in Iguassu Falls, and at the Design Suites in Bariloche, or to the colorful Caribbean hosted by Point Grace Resort & Spa in the lush Turks and Caicos Island–all including round-trip air on American Airlines. Ten nights around California, also with air on American Airlines, features stays at the Marriott San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, Marriott Anaheim, Marriott Santa Ynez Valley, San Francisco Marriott Marquis and Courtyard by Marriott Vallejo Napa Valley. Land-only offers include “A Week in La Belle France,” with stays at several Marriott hotels; “Savor the Flavor of Brazil” with stays at the JW Marriott Rio and the Renaissance Sao Paulo,  “A Portugal One-Week Escape” at the Four Seasons Fairways in Algarve, and an “African Safari” plus more.

Shorter stays include the Marriott Athens Ledra, Marriott Copenhagen, and thes Stones Hotel Legion Bali among many more international and national destinations. In South Florida choices include a varied number of first-class restaurants, cultural events, classical and popular concerts and kid’s attractions.

Every dollar raised from the Summer Spree night (tickets sales, auction proceeds) will go directly to The Arc of South Florida’s programs for Adults and Children with Intellectual and developmental disabilities

Free Health Assessment At Florida Blue Center 5/11/13

Free Health Assessment At Florida Blue Center
blueSaturday, May 11th 10am – 3pm
Florida Blue Center
(Across Falls Shopping Center)
8895 SW 136th St.
Miami, Florida 33176
Website
 
Stop by for a Free health assessment featuring: 
 
-Cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure and spinal screenings 
-Check your height, weight, body fat % and BMI 
-Receive a one-on-one wellness consultation with a registered nurse 
-Learn about key contacts in the community from Switchboard of Miami 
-Healthy snacks and refreshments provided by: Corner Bakery 
-Relaxing massages 
-Free gift, PLUS a chance to register-to-win a $25.00 gift card!
 
In honor of Mother’s Day, mothers will receive a FREE special gift* with this email!
*Offer Valid Only: May 11, 2013 Limited, while supplies last.

15th Annual Donor Next Door Luncheon 5/8/13

15th Annual Donor Next Door Luncheon
Wednesday, 05/08/2013, 11:00 am – 01:00 pm
Jungle Island

1111 Parrot Jungle Trail,
Miami, Florida 33132
More Info Link

Leave A Legacy and The Miami Foundation announced today that Amy Rosenberg is the recipient of the 2013 Ruth Shack Leadership Award. The award is presented to an emerging leader who represents the qualities of ethics, dedication and service to Greater Miami embodied by The Miami Foundation’s former president, Ruth Shack. She will be recognized along with the Community Champion Award recipient, David Lawrence, Jr., at the 15th Annual Donor Next Door Luncheon, Wednesday, May 8, 2013, 11 a.m. at Jungle Island.

Rosenberg is an attorney and arts advocate who founded Overtown Music Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing the tradition of music that existed for decades in Overtown. Rosenberg currently serves as co-chair of the board of directors after spending many years as the arts and social service organization’s executive director. She recently joined the National YoungArts Foundation (formerly known as the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts).

David Lawrence, Jr. is president of The Early Childhood Initiative Foundation and leads The Children’s Movement of Florida. The Community Champion Award is given to a person who has contributed to the nonprofit community and has shown a commitment to Greater Miami through their work.

“Amy has founded a number of meaningful organizations that are serving our community. As an alumnus of our leadership program, Miami Fellows, she exemplifies the commitment to Greater Miami that we seek to instill in young leaders. This honor is well-deserved by Amy,” said Javier Alberto Soto, president and CEO of The Miami Foundation.

“This leadership award recognizes individuals in our community who have demonstrated their commitment to advancing civic engagement, public service and building bridges among diverse groups,” said Hank Raattama, shareholder at Akerman Senterfitt and co-chair of LEAVE A LEGACY. “Through Amy’s work in the community, many other people have been inspired to work toward creating a more vibrant Miami.”

National Hamburger Month Closing Party featuring Swine, Josh’s Deli, Blue Collar & Pincho Factory 5/31/13

soulofmiamifeatured_thumb.jpg

National Hamburger Month Closing Party featuring Swine, Josh’s Deli, Blue NHMClosingPartyPosterCollar & Pincho Factory
Friday, 05/31/2013, 11:59 pm – 03:00 am
Pincho Factory

9860 Bird Road,
Miami, Florida 33165
More Info Link

The party always has to come to an end and National Hamburger Month is no different. Pincho Factory will be hosting the National Hamburger Month Closing Party on Friday May 31st at Midnight. We have compiled a great list of Restaurants/Chefs who want to send off May 2013 in unforgettable Burger fashion. At this moment we’re not revealing what each Chef will be doing and who knows, it might stay a surprise unless you attend. Joining Nedal Ahmad of Pincho Factory will be Chef Danny Serfer of Blue Collar, Chef Josh Marcus of Josh’s Deli and from the 50 Eggs group Chef Phil Bryant of Swine Southern Table & Bar. Ponte las pilas Westchester cause this is gonna be a great one!

15th Annual Donor Next Door Luncheon Honors David Lawrence and Amy Rosenberg 5/8/13

15th Annual Donor Next Door Luncheon Honors David Lawrence and Amy Rosenberg
Amy Rosenberg headshot FINALWednesday, May 8, 2013, 11 a.m.
Jungle Island
1111 Parrot Jungle Trail
Miami, FL 33132

LEAVE A LEGACY and The Miami Foundation announced today that Amy Rosenberg is the recipient of the 2013 Ruth Shack Leadership Award. The award is presented to an emerging leader who represents the qualities of ethics, dedication and service to Greater Miami embodied by The Miami Foundation’s former president, Ruth Shack.  She will be recognized along with the Community Champion Award recipient, David Lawrence, Jr., at the 15th Annual Donor Next Door Luncheon.

Rosenberg is an attorney and arts advocate who founded Overtown Music Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing the tradition of music that existed for decades in Overtown.  Rosenberg currently serves as co-chair of the board of directors after spending many years as the arts and social service organization’s executive director.  She recently joined the National YoungArts Foundation (formerly known as the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts).

David Lawrence headshot FINALDavid Lawrence, Jr. is president of The Early Childhood Initiative Foundation and leads The Children’s Movement of Florida.  The Community Champion Award is given to a person who has contributed to the nonprofit community and has shown a commitment to Greater Miami through their work.

“Amy has founded a number of meaningful organizations that are serving our community.  As an alumnus of our leadership program, Miami Fellows, she exemplifies the commitment to Greater Miami that we seek to instill in young leaders.  This honor is well-deserved by Amy,” said Javier Alberto Soto, president and CEO of The Miami Foundation.

“This leadership award recognizes individuals in our community who have demonstrated their commitment to advancing civic engagement, public service and building bridges among diverse groups,” said Hank Raattama, shareholder at Akerman Senterfitt and co-chair of LEAVE A LEGACY. “Through Amy’s work in the community, many other people have been inspired to work toward creating a more vibrant Miami.”

Weird Miami Bus Tours: Hosted By César Trasobares 5/4/13

Weird Miami Bus Tours: Hosted By César Trasobares
weirdmiamiSaturday, May 4th, 2013, 9:30am- 4:30pm
(bus leaves promptly at 10am)
PickUp/DropOff:
BFI #BasFisherInvitational
100 Northeast 11th Street
Miami, FL 33132

The unstoppable Weird Miami Bus Tours continues with artist/curator/art activist, César Trasobares.
Working in Miami for more than three decades Trasobares will guide us through the stranger parts
of Cuban cultural and historic landscapes that Miami has to offer.
 
In his own work, César Trasobares revels in the political fallout of Cuba’s exiles in Miami.  Primarily made through
collage, installation and performance, Trasobares focuses on the Cuban rituals that have taken root onto
American soil and that have deeply affected the social fabric of the city of Miami.
 
From the exhibition, “The Cuban Evolution," art critic Benjamin Forgey of the Washington Post notes that
"César Trasobares is the one artist in the group who confronts the bicultural situation absolutely head-on
[in a piece from Trasobares’s ‘Quinceañera’ series]." This fearless spirit will extend to Cesar as tour-guide
for the Weird Miami bus tours!
 
On Saturday, May 4th, 2013, Trasobares will discuss the Cuban cultural imprint that has been evolving in Miami
for more than half a century.  The tour will be expansive: from talking about the monumental projects Trasobares has brought to Miami as Executive Director of Miami-Dade County’s Art In Public Places Program, to the personal and miniscule; Trasobares will draw from his personal memoirs-in-progress currently titled, Among Friends.
Trasobares will not only share stories from his personal relationships with many esteemed artists, but we will
be able to hear these stories on-site!
 
The tour will meet at the BasFisherInvitational space first. From here we will venture through historic area of Miami to view site specific works of art and learn about Miami’s Cuban heritage all with the bonus of a bottomless cup of Spanish sangria!
 
Pack a snack since our lunch break will not happen until 1:30 pm.
 
César E. Trasobares (born 1949 in Holguín, Cuba), is a Cuban-American artist specializing in Collage, Installation, and Performance. In 1970 he studied in the Miami Dade Community College, Associate of Arts, in Miami, Florida. He is a graduate of Florida Atlantic University (Bachelor of Arts), Florida. In the past four decades, Trasobares has organized and exhibited in numerous exhibitions. From 1985 to 1990 he served as Executive Director of Miami-Dade
County’s Art In Public Places Program. Keep an eye on the de la Cruz calendar: Trasorares will be giving a series of
lectures drawing from his memoir, Among Friends; the most recent lecture being “Carlos Alfonso In Context: Public and Private Voices.”

Celebrate National Hamburger Month With The Food Trucks 5/18/13

Celebrate National Hamburger Month With The Food Trucks
Saturday, 05/18/2013, 05:00 pm – 10:00 pm
WheelinDealin_NHM2013PosterMagic City Casino

450 NW 37th Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33126
More Info Link

Time for our 3rd Annual National Hamburger Month edition of the Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Festival taking place at Magic City Casino on Saturday May 18th from 5-10PM! All the Food Trucks are coming up with “Specialty Burgers” for the month to celebrate plus they’ll still have their full menu! This year the Dessert Trucks will get in on the action too! There is going to be a panel of judges who will decide just who has the “Best Food Truck Burger” and “Best Themed Dessert”. You love Burgers & you love Food Trucks which means you NEED to be here!

Miami Museum Month May 2013

miamimuseummonthMiami Museum Month
May 2013
www.MiamiMuseumMonth.com

Take in Greater Miami and the Beaches’ Special Exhibits, World-Class Permanent Collections, Memorials & More with Buy One Get One Free (BOGO) and  "Join One – See Them All" Offerings
                                                                           
Art, history and culture are ingrained in every Greater Miami and the Beaches experience from sipping mojitos amidst iconic Art Deco buildings and strolling through murals along the Wynwood Walls to exploring the emerging Design District and browsing during Art Basel.  To celebrate its rich attractions and evolving art scene, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) brings Miami Museum Month to visitors and residents again this May 1 – 31:

BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE (BOGO): An ideal time to add a museum visit to your vacation or business trip itinerary or for families to spice up weekend plans, the "Buy One, Get One Free" gives admission to two for the price of one to any participating museum.

JOIN ONE, SEE THEM ALL: Absolutely the best time to join! When purchasing a membership at any one of the participating museums you can visit any of the other participating museums for free during Miami Museum Month. This saves visitors more than $50 per adult.

"The diverse experience that Greater Miami and the Beaches offers to our business and leisure visitors continues to evolve and it’s wonderful to see the growing popularity of our museums and cultural attractions," notes GMCVB President and CEO William D. Talbert, III, CDME.   "While visitors continue to enjoy our year-round sunshine and stunning beaches, we gladly welcome them to stay longer to enjoy more of what the destination has to offer – restaurants, nightlife, hotels, and spas as well as our new, emerging and heritage neighborhoods."
 
Participants to-date in this year’s Miami Museum Month program include:
Art Center/South Florida
Bakehouse Art Complex
Bass Museum of Art
City of Miami Police & Courthouse Museum
Coral Gables Merrick House
Coral Gables Museum
The Dezer Collection
Gold Coast Railroad Museum
The Haitian Heritage Museum
HistoryMiami
Holocaust Memorial of Miami Beach
Jewish Museum of Florida – FIU
Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
Miami Art Museum
Miami Beach Botanical Garden
Miami Children’s Museum
Miami Science Museum
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Wings Over Miami Air Museum
The Wolfsonian – FIU
World Erotic Art Museum

This year’s program features a special kick-off event themed "Miami Then and Now," a retrospective look at Miami through the years.  "Miami Then and Now" will take place on May 1, 2013 at 6:00 p.m. at The Coral Gables Museum located at 285 Aragon Avenue and will also serve as a platform to unveil the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s newest Heritage Guide Book.
 
The program will also feature a special "Night at the Museum" promotion where a lucky winner will have the chance to invite a group of friends for a sleepover and private dinner party while screening the film "Night at the Museum" at the History Miami Museum.  The group will spend the night surrounded by the exhibits and will be immersed in history as the destination’s founders come to life during an enchanted evening.  To learn more about how you can win a "Night at the Museum," visit the website.
 
Miami Museum Month is part of the GMCVB’s Temptations Program, which takes a thematic focus on the best that Miami has to offer throughout the year at attractive prices.  Other Temptations promotions include Shop Miami Month, Miami Film Month, Miami Golf Month, Miami Romance Month, Miami Spa Month, Miami Spice, Miami Attractions Month and Miami Live Music Month.  For more information on the Temptations Program please visit www.MiamiTemptations.com .

Tri-Rail’s Ride and Play Day 5/18/13

Tri-Rail’s Ride and Play Day
Saturday, 05/18/2013, 05:00 am – 09:45 pm
Tri-Rail-TrainTri-Rail
800 NW 33rd St.,
Pompano Beach, Florida 33064
Webpage Link

In celebration of Tri-Rail’s new schedule with hourly train service on weekends and holidays, South Florida residents and visitors are encouraged to get onboard the train as part of a special Ride and Play Day on Saturday, May 18. Tri-Rail riders can show their validated train fare at local attractions, including Bayside Marketplace (Miami), Vizcaya Museum & Gardens (Miami), Museum of Discovery & Science (Fort Lauderdale), CityPlace (West Palm Beach) or International Game Fish Association (Dania Beach) to enjoy discounts and special offers on this day only.

Riders can visit www.tri-rail.com to check out the new schedule, plan their trip and download a coupon for a free NEW Tangy Pineapple Chicken Wrap with purchase of a Wrap Combo at Pollo Tropical.

As part of Ride and Play Day, riders will have the chance to meet some of their favorite radio personalities from WLYF 101.5 LITE-FM, Hot 105, Amor 107.5 and 97.9 FM WRMF, as they ride Tri-Rail to some of South Florida’s best attractions. Plus, Pollo Tropical will be on-site at select train stations, offering complimentary samples.

Tri-Rail’s Ride and Play Day special offers include:

• Bayside Marketplace
Free coupon book with great discounts at a selection of stores and restaurants.
• CityPlace
Free reusable shopping bag and special gift.
• IGFA – International Game Fish Association
Free admission
• Museum of Discovery & Science
$2 off exhibit admission
$1 off classic, 45-minute IMAX films
$3 off special engagement IMAX films
$2 off MaxFlight
$10 off museum membership
10% off all Explore Store purchases
• Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
$3 off admission

Tri-Rail commuters and leisure riders are now able to catch a train from 17 conveniently located stations every hour on weekend and holidays. Tri-Rail recently expanded its weekend service to include 30 trains-a-day, compared to 16 trains-a-day in the past. Train service is available every day of the year with bus and Metrorail connections. Tri-Rail’s weekend fares are just $5 roundtrip and children under the age of 5 ride free. Kids ages 5 to 12 can enjoy a 50% discount.

Southbound trains depart from of the Mangonia Park Station at 5:50 a.m. and northbound trains start from the Hialeah Market Station at 5:20 a.m. The new schedule provides for later night service, with the last southbound train departing Mangonia Park at 9:00 p.m. and the last northbound train departing Hialeah Market at 9:45 p.m.

To learn more about Tri-Rail’s Ride and Play Day or to find updated train schedules, visit www.tri-rail.com or call 1-800-TRI-RAIL.

8&9 Clothing Artist Series With KRS One At The Showroom 5/3/13

8&9 Clothing "Artist Series" With KRS One At The Showroom
KRS ONEFriday May 3rd, 6pm-9pm
The Showroom By 8&9 Clothing
7814 NE 4th Ct.
Miami, FL 33138

Friday May 3rd, Miami based 8&9 Clothing company will host its fifth Artist Series event with hip hop legend KRS One. The RSVP event will be held in the company’s private showroom from 6-9 pm. Fans will have a chance to grab  KRS’s book, “The Gospel of Hip Hop: First Testament”, have it signed and meet KRS One, along with checking out all of 8and9’s latest clothing. Beverages provided by Hennessy and music provided by South Florida’s finest.
 
8&9 Clothing along with Addictive Affairs, Gridlock Radio and DNA Entertainment presents KRS One live in Miami for one night at The Stage on May 3rd, 2013. Performances by South Florida artiss P Doe Luna, Thirstin Howlin III and Serum. Music By DJ Klassik and DJ Heron. Meet & Greet with Styles P will be held at The Showroom by 8&9 Clothing from 6pm to 8pm. Get tickets HERE.

For more information on The Showroom, KRS One meet & greet or the concert after party ,ask 8&9 on twitter @8and9 email showroom(at)8and9(dot)com or text 305.747.1706.
 
Follow 8&9 Clothing:
 
Twitter: @8and9
Instagram: @8and9
Facebook: Facebook.com/8and9

Roundtable Discussion: Boundless Reach On line Exhibition 5/9/13

Roundtable Discussion: Boundless Reach On line Exhibition
Thursday, 05/09/2013, 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Lester’s
2519 NW 2nd Avenue,
Wynwood Miami, Florida 33127
Webpage Link

The public is invited to join the conversation with a roundtable discussion about the merits, issues and future of online exhibition. As technologies continue to advance, the parameters of visual art experience march on, invading virtual space in the form of online exhibitions, mobile exchanges and other digital forms. How does this expansion affect the presentation of visual art, and what does it mean for its future?

This event is part of the The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum at Florida International University in conjunction with Girls’ Club Foundation to continue with the on-line exhibition/project space The Drawing Project.

O, Miami!- The Final Weekend with Dead Poets Parade, Richard Blanco & Tattoos 4/25/13-4/28/13

soulofmiamifeatured

O, Miami!- The Final Weekend with Dead Poets Parade, Richard Blanco & Tattoos
April 25 – 28
Locations around Miami

OH NO O,MIAMI / THE END IS NEAR / YOUR TIME HAS COME / FOR POETRY

April 25 – 7 p.m.
positive degree adjective of definition // but still in no danger of dehydrationAmram Megan HS 51112
The Wolfsonian-FIU, 1001 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, FL 33139
Craig Dworkin, Steven Zultanski
Performance and conversation with poets Craig Dworkin and Steven Zultanski.

April 26 – 8 p.m.
Animal Spirits
The Freehand, 2727 Indian Creek Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Tom Healy, Duke Riley, Kevin Young
Poet Tom Healy and Tattoo artist Duke Riley present Animal Spirits (Monk Books, 2013) a book of poems and tattoos. Kevin Young presents The Hungry Ear: Poems of Food and Drink (Bloomsbury, 2012). Ocho Placas presentes a pop-up tattoo parlor. Broken Shaker presents cocktails.

April 27 – 10:30 a.m.
New Voices
The Betsy-South Beach, 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
DéLana Dameron, Frank Báez, Dave Landsberger
Poetry reading with three young, up-and-coming poets: DéLana Dameron (USA), Frank Báez (DR), and Dave Landsberger (USA).

April 27 – 2 p.m.
Poetry Is for the Dogs: A Benefit for Miami-Dade Animal Shelters
The Betsy-South Beach, 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Chase Twichell, Michael Hettich
2012 Kingsley Tufts Award-winner Chase Twichell and Michael Hettich read “for the dogs.” Suggested donation of $10 to benefit animal shelters in Miami-Dade County. O, Miami supports Miami-Dade County’s effort to convert all animal shelters to “no-kill” facilities.

April 27 – 3:30 p.m.
O, Poesía
B Bar at The Betsy-South Beach, 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
José Ángel Leyva, Víctor Rodríguez Núñez, Achy Obejas
Una lectura en español con poetas de México, Cuba y Los Estados Unidos.

April 27 – 5 p.m.
Discussion: Global Poetry
The Betsy-South Beach, 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
José Ángel Leyva, Víctor Rodríguez Núñez, Achy Obejas, Jean Portante, Katherine M. Hedeen
Do you want to learn more about poetry from other countries? A discussion, moderated by Víctor Rodríguez Núñez, on the best of contemporary poetry around the globe. Come and restock your reading list of international poets.

April 27 – 6:30 p.m.
Poetry Under the Stars
The Roof of The Betsy-South Beach, 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Eduardo C. Corral, Achy Obejas, Jean Portante
2011 Yale Younger Poets prize-winner Eduardo C. Corral joins Batty Weber prize-winner Jean Portante and poet/translator Achy Obejas for a reading under the stars. A reception to follow the reading. RSVP required – click here.

April 28 – Noon
Poetry Is Dead Parade
In the park across from The Betsy-South Beach, 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Student groups, cultural organizations
Poetry Is Dead! Or is it? The Poetry is Dead parade will act as a funeral procession in reverse, beginning outside O, Miami host hotel The Betsy-South Beach and marching through Lummus Park. Selected performances featuring local students and arts groups, positioned as stops along the parade route, will act as inspired re-awakenings or summonings of the spirits of dead poets. Come dressed as your favorite dead poet.

April 28 – 4 p.m.
LGBT + Poetry
B Bar at The Betsy-South Beach, 1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Stacey Waite, Julie Wade, Neil de la Flor
Frank O’Hara Prize-winner Stacey Waite joins South Florida poets Julie Wade and Neil de la Flor for a reading at the O, Miami host hotel, The Betsy-South Beach.

April 28 – 7 p.m.
Megan & Richard & Thurston, O, MI!
New World Center Symphony Hall, 500 17th Street, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Richard Blanco, Thurston Moore, Megan Amram
2013 Inagural poet Richard Blanco; Sonic Youth’s Thurston Moore; and NBC’s Megan Amram read poetry in the New World Symphony Hall. Plus surprise guest poets and poetry films by the Borscht Film Fest. Tickets are $20, $30 (with tote gift bag) and $50 (with tote gift bag and copy of Richard Blanco’s “One Today”). >>>BUY.

April 28 – 10 p.m.
O,fter Party with Thurston Moore
The Freehand Miami, 2727 Indian Creek Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Richard Blanco, Thurston Moore, Megan Amram
Join 2013 Inagural poet Richard Blanco; Sonic Youth’s Thurston Moore; and NBC’s Megan Amram for an official “O,fter Party” thrown with our friends from Sweat Records.

4th Annual New Times Brew at the Zoo 5/4/13

4th Annual New Times Brew at the Zoo
nwt_email_brew_2013Saturday, May 4, 2013, 7pm – 11pm
Zoo Miami
12400 Southwest 152nd Street
Miami, FL 33177

Purchast Tickets Online
$5 OFF General Admission & $10 OFF VIP with promo code CTS2013
Good through May 3rd

Miami’s largest beer festival returns May 4, 2013, showcasing 100+ local, international, and craft beers, local brewers, live national acts, interactive games, animals, food and fun. Grammy award-winning Naughty by Nature will perform live, and Luke live on stage! For more details visit our website.

General Admission Tickets:
Unlimited local and international beer sampling from 100+ vendors, national music acts and special offers from local merchants.
$30 with discount / $45 at door

VIP Tickets:
Unlimited Bud Light Crown and spirit samples, catered food, and early entry to sample beer from 6pm-7pm without the hassle of any lines. Space is VERY LIMITED.
$65 with discount / $85 at door

This is a 21-and-up event. Rain or shine.

Refresh Miami Lean Startup 4/25/13

Refresh Miami: Lean Startup
refreshApril 25 @ 7:30PM
Miami Science Museum
3280 South Miami Avenue
Miami, FL, 33133
Register Online

Have you ever wanted to start your own business?
Do you have a business but need to figure out a way to increase engagement and maximize retention?
Is your first thought "I can’t do this because I’m not a developer." or "I don’t have the money to have this developed."

Well then join us for this months Refresh and see how much you can get done with nothing but sweat equity (hard work).
Itinerary
• Introduction to Lean Startup
• Idea validation (no coding necessary) – Featuring Patrick Vlaskovits author of "The Lean Entrepreneur" (via Skype)
• The Minimal Viable Product – Raul Pla of SimpleWifi.com
• Metrics, What’s important What’s not – Ben Yoskovitz author of Lean Analytics (via Skype)

Best of all.. It’s free.. Food, Beer, Wine, Networking.. All FREE..

Feel free to donate or get a VIP ticket if mood strikes you.

VIP & Donation Tickets get priority seating in the main room.
VIP Tickets include a copy of Lean Analytics and front row seating.

Monique The VoiceFan Watch Party at Las Vegas Restaurant 4/22/13

Monique The VoiceFan Watch Party at Las Vegas Restaurant
moniqueMonday, 4/22/13, 8:00pm
Las Vegas Restaurant
11995 SW 26th Street
Miami, FL 33175

Come out and support Monique Abbadie, a recent graduate of Florida National University.

Monique is currently competing on NBC’s “The Voice” in front of millions of people on the national stage.

Monique (in town for the weekend) and her family will join the FNU “We Believe” party to cheer her on to victory as we watch the recorded broadcast to be aired Monday night.

Arrive early  and take pictures, enjoy happy hour and have a good time.

Yellow Canopy at the Bird Road Art Walk 4/20/13

Yellow Canopy at the Bird Road Art Walk
Saturday, 04/20/2013, 07:00 am – 10:00 am
Yellow Canopy
4217 SW 75th Ave ,
Miami, Florida 33155
Facebook Link

Our eclectic store has a wide variety of antique and shabby chic furniture, clothes, jewelry and home decor (buddhas, etc). We have original items that have been acquired from all around the world. We are open during the Bird Road Art Walk on Saturday, April 20, 2013 so feel free to pass by!

3:05 Miami Cafecito Break Celebration! 4/27/13

soulofmiamifeatured
3:05 Miami Cafecito Break Celebration!
Saturday, 04/27/2013, 02:00 pm – 06:00 pm
4579354974-1CubaOcho Art & Research Center
1465 S.W. 8th Street
Miami, Florida 33135
Free but RSVP Required

Have you joined the movement to make 3:05 Miami’s official cafecito time yet? Join us for our first annual 3:05 Cafecito Day Celebration & Tweet-Up in conjunction with GOOD’s National Neighbor Day. Enjoy free cafecito, mojitos and giveaways from our partners every 20 minutes! Who’s down for caffeinated awesomeness at 3:05 at CubaOcho Art and Research Center? Home of the largest collection of Cuban art and books, the space also serves as a live music lounge. FREE event, RSVP required. Space is limited!

Giveaway Partners:
Santayana Jewelers
Blo Midtown
Adrienne Arsht Center
Miami Symphony Orchestra
The Standard
Yoga That
Miami Culinary Tours
Have Nots Comedy
Sweat Records
Eating House
Little Havana Tours with Corinna
Miami Food Tours
Spoken Soul Festival

305cafecitoad

Photographs of Florida Renaissance Festival at Cauley Square on 4/13/13

Florida Renaissance Festival at Cauley Square on Saturday, April 13, 2013.  We had so much fun the entertainment was spectacular, I can’t wait to go back next year.  You can also go to The Florida Renaissance Festival at Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach during February and March.

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Latin Taste Fest 6/1/13

Latin Taste Fest
latintasteSaturday, June 1, 2013 from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Hilton Miami Airport Hilton
5101 Blue Lagoon Dr
Miami, FL 33126
Buy Tickets Online

A premier food and beverage event showcasing a selection of Latin countries emphasizing in wineries and spirits, as well as, upscale cuisine from local caterers and restaurants.

Latin Taste Fest is a food, wine and spirits extravaganza bringing together world palates to an international Latin feast. Celebrating the creativity of Latin cuisine, wines and spirits, the event attracts participants and attendees from different parts of the world while highlighting local and international restaurants and the talents of a celebrity chef and local chefs.

In the spirit of sharing, a portion of the proceeds will go to a Feeding South Florida.

New Theatre World Premiere of Road Through Heaven 5/17/13-6/2/13

New Theatre World Premiere of Road Through Heaven
May 17 – June 2, 2013
Thursday – Saturday at 8 pm & Sunday at 1 pm
and Sunday at 5:30 pm performances (No 5:30 pm on May 19)
New Theatre
At The Roxy Performing Arts Center
1645 SW 107th Avenue
Miami, FL 33165
www.new-theatre.org

Ticket information:
Thursday & Sunday evening:  $35
All other performances $40.
 
Student Rush (under 25 with ID) Ticket:  $15 at the door based on availability

New Theatre presents its second World Premiere of the season: Road Through Heaven written by and starring Artistic Director Ricky J. Martinez, running May 17 –  June 2, 2013 (new dates) and directed by Carbonell nominated Margaret M. Ledford.
 
Road Through Heaven tells the story of a tension filled, sexually charged, lovers triangle as it unfolds on a forgotten Caribbean island, where the characters face questions of morality, life and death, the occult, and the realizing of their deepest desires.  This beautifully lyrical play features New Theatre’s Artistic Director Ricky J. Martinez (Carbonell nominated), New Theatre veterans Evelyn Perez, Javier Cabrera and making her New Theatre debut, Julissa Calderon; and supported by Production Stage Manager Jerry Jensen, Dramaturgs Jane G. Duncan and Steven A. Chambers,  and Costume Designer K. Blair Brown.

Road Through Heaven has had readings at the Cuban Culture Week in NYC presented by The Cuban Artists Fund, and at Teatro Paraguas, MidnightChild Productions, Performance Network Theatre, Repertorio Español, and Shotgun Productions.

Ricky J. Martinez is Miami-born, is a multi-disciplinary and was schooled at New World School of Arts.   He is currently the Artistic Director of New Theatre in Miami; the Executive Secretary for the National New Play Network; sits on the Advisory Board of the Latino Theatre Commons; and has sat as a National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) panelist for a five years.  He is the recipient of two Downtown Miami Playwriting Program mentorship’s with Arthur Kopit and Tina Howe. Martinez has also been invited to direct three times for the MFA Playwrights’ Workshop at the Kennedy Center’s American College Theater Festival and Stanford University’s National Center for New Plays.  He recently directed Anna in the Tropics by Nilo Cruz at Forbes Center for the Performing Arts at James Madison University.

Young Patronesses of the Opera present the 27th annual YPO Voice Competition Finals 4/27/13

Young Patronesses of the Opera present the 27th annual YPO Voice Competition Finals
April 27, 2013, at 1:00 p.m.
Ziff Ballet Opera House at the Arsht Center
1300 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL 33132

Tickets are $25 for orchestra and $10 for mezzanine and above. Tickets may be purchased through the Florida Grand Opera ticket office at 800.741.1010 or online at www.FGO.org .

Young Patronesses of the Opera (YPO), in conjunction with Florida Grand Opera (FGO), is proud to announce the 27th annual YPO Voice Competition. This year, the Finals Concert will be held for the first time at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County. Offering a program of popular and significant arias as sung by today’s brightest young talents.
 
“We are not only looking to provide new opportunities for budding opera singers,” said Lucie Spieler, chairman of the YPO Voice Competition. “We also want to give the community the chance to experience their talent and fall in love with opera, whether for the first time or all over again.”
 
The competition began with hundreds of applicants, which have been narrowed down to 35 semifinalists set to audition in Miami on April 26. The following day, a hand-picked group of 12 finalists will perform giving the aspiring stars a taste of their future success.
 
“For more than 20 years, YPO and FGO have worked together to bring opera to the community in South Florida. This competition features the best young voices from across the nation and the proof is in the winners,” said Susan Danis, Florida Grand Opera’s CEO and General Director. “Past finalists – such as Michael Fabiano, Nadine Sierra, and Elizabeth Caballero – have gone on to successful international careers, singing leading roles at the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, and more.” 
 
Each of the 12 finalists will perform and compete for $46,000 in prizes, some of which include: the Senior Young Artist division (ages 26-30) grand prize of $8,000; the Junior Young Artist (ages 20-25) division grand prize of $7,500; the Troy Moss Memorial prize of $5,000; the Audience Favorite prize of $1,000, for which tickets buyers will have the chance to vote.
 
The YPO Voice Competition, held in Miami every other year, was founded in 1972 by Irene Patti Swartz Hammond. In 1988, YPO joined forces with Florida Grand Opera to create a truly prestigious national competition, awarding some of the highest prizes in the category. The chairman of the event is Lucie Spieler with co-chairmen Charlette Seidel and Renee Fink.
 
The judges for the 2013 competition include: Andrew Bisantz, music director of Eugene Opera and an American conductor with extensive credits leading national orchestras and opera companies throughout the country, most recently FGO’s Magic Flute; Gerald Martin Moore, pianist, conductor, and vocal coach who works with several notable singers, including Renée Fleming, Joyce DiDonato, and Rolando Villazón; Maria Zouves, soprano, founder and director of V.O.I.C.Experience in Tampa, and associate director of Opera Tampa.
 
Contestants scheduled to compete in Miami for the semifinals are:

Junior Young Artist (aged 20 – 25):
Ryan Bradford, baritone (from Walnut Creek, California)
Sergio Cepeda, tenor
Betsy Diaz, soprano (from Miami, Florida)
Claire DiVizio, soprano (from Beverly Hills, Michigan)
Melissa Fajardo, mezzo-soprano
Gillian Hollis, soprano (from Miami, Florida)
Aumna Iqbal, soprano (from Newport Coast, California)
Michael Kuhn, tenor (from Crofton, Maryland)
Steven LaBrie, baritone (from Dallas, Texas)
Alyssa Martin, soprano (from Greensboro, North Carolina)
Rebecca Nathanson, soprano (from New Haven, Connecticut)
Edward Nelson, baritone (from Los Angeles, California)
Catherine Spitzer, soprano (from Hollywood, Florida)
Brian Vu, baritone (from New Haven, Connecticut)
 
Senior Young Artist (aged 26 – 30):
Viktor Antipenko, tenor (from St. Petersburg, Russia)
Noel Bouley, bass-baritone (from Houston, Texas)
Cynthia Cook, mezzo-soprano (from Whitehouse Station, New Jersey)
Stephen Fish, bass-baritone (from Cedar Falls Iowa)
Joseph Flaxman, baritone (from Succasunna, New Jersey)
Jeremy Griffin, bass-baritone (from Colorado)
Jeff Gwaltney, tenor (from Ocala, Florida)
Bevin Hill, soprano (from Atlanta, Georgia)
Carla Jablonski, mezzo-soprano (from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvia)
Adam Lau, bass (from San Francisco, California)
Hye Jung Lee, soprano (from Seoul, South Korea)
Kathryn Leemhuis, soprano (from New York, New York)
Matthew Maness, tenor (from Roanoke, Virginia)
Ryan Milstead, baritone (from Okolona, Mississippi)
Matthew Newlin, tenor (from Georgetown, Illinois)
Amy Oraftik, mezzo-soprano (from California)
Heather Phillips, soprano (from North Canton, Ohio)
Ola Rafalo, soprano (from Chicago, Illinois)
Brittany Ann Reneé Robinson, soprano (from Burnsville, Minnesota)
Lacy Sauter, soprano (from Duluth, Minnesota)
Melinda Whittington, soprano (from Wilson, North Carolina)
 
Funds for the competition are provided by Young Patronesses of the Opera, with ongoing support from Junior Opera Guild, Dr. and Mrs. Phillip George (the Judy George Award), Ms. Renée Fink (the Marvin A. Fink Memorial Award), the Irene Patti Swartz Hammond Memorial Award fund, and several individual donors.
 
All singers who participate in the Finals Concert win a prize. Donors who underwrite an award have the opportunity to name that award and present it to the winner on stage. For more information, please contact Lucie Spieler at (305) 854-1643, ext. 1521, or at lspieler@fgo.org.

A luncheon prior to the event will be held at Barton G Restaurant onsite as chaired by Barbara Reese and Deborah Campbell. Tickets for the luncheon are $80, including both a three-course meal and a ticket to the concert. Luncheon tickets can also be purchased via the Florida Grand Opera Box Office.

Picnic in the Park at the Deering Estate 4/21/13

Picnic in the Park at the Deering Estate
Sunday, April 21, 2013, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
picnicDeering Estate at Cutler
16701 SW 72 Avenue
Miami, FL 33157

Admission: $7 for all ages!
Free admission for Deering Estate Foundation Members & children under 4.

Spend a relaxing day with your family & friends at the Deering Estate and enjoy a picnic on the main lawn. Please note that grilling and cooking is not permitted on the Estate.

There will be a Human Chess Match hosted by Door to the Arts, Inc. & St. John Neumann Catholic School at 2:00 pm in the Courtyard. Watch as a chess match comes alive! Students dressed in full costume will make their grand entrance and take their positions  on the life-size chess board. Players will call out moves from an adjoining table causing the corresponding live chess pieces to move, and the amazine battle of skill & strategy begins!
 
Chef David Schwadron Catering and Joanna’s Marketplace are the official picnic providers for the Deering Estate at Cutler and can be contacted directly for preordered meals. Preordered meals are available for delivery to the Estate or for pick-up. Please call 305-238-5881 for Chef David Schwadron Catering and 305-661-5777 for Joanna’s Marketplace.

"Picnic in the Park" activities include:
Old Fashion lawn games;
Historic House Tours at 10:30 am & 3:00 pm;
Natural Areas Tour at 12:30 pm;
Human Chess Match hosted by Door to the Arts, Inc. & St. John Neumann Catholic School at 2:00 pm in the Courtyard;
Spring Photography Exhibit featuring Patricia Gonzalez-Osorio, Antonia Wright & Marina Font

VeritageMiami United Way 18th Wine Festival 4/17/13-4/20/13

VeritageMiami
Wednesday, April 17th through Saturday, April 20th, 2013

VeritageMiami will bring together more than 3,000 wine and food lovers for four days of sipping, tasting, toasting and paddle-raising.  Headlining the four days of festivities are two Michelin-star chefs – Daniel Boulud, widely considered to be one of America’s leading culinary authorities, and Davide Brovelli of the family-owned Relais & Chateaux property on Italy’s Lake Maggiore.  Now in its 18th year, VeritageMiami, formerly known as the United Way Miami Wine & Food Festival, benefits United Way of Miami-Dade, which supports programs in the community that are focused on improving the education, financial stability and health of Miami-Dade residents.
 
Wednesday, April 17th, VIP 6pm, General admission 7pm
Wynwood Walls
2550 NW 2nd Avenue
Miami.
The VIP Tasting tickets: $75 per person. General admission tickets: $55 per person.
Wynwood Walls is the home to VeritageMiami’s opening event, the Craft Beer Tasting presented by CBIZ. With vibrant murals as the backdrop for the evening, guests will “tap” into nearly 100 craft beers and micro-brews at dozens of tasting stations. Along with the brew, guests will sample bites from some of Miami’s top restaurants including Bloom, City Hall, the Daily Melt, Joe’s Stone Crab, Miccosukee Resort & Gaming, Oak Tavern, Pride and Joy, Shake Shack, Timó, Wynwood Kitchen & Bar, among many others. 
 
Thursday, April 18th, VIP 6pm, General admission 7pm
Village of Merrick Park
358 San Lorenzo Avenue
Coral Gables.
The VIP Tasting tickets $150 General admission tickets $75.
Fine Wine Tasting, presented by Miccosukee Resort & Gaming.  While the event returns to a familiar location, this year’s edition offers many new elements.  Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a glass of Pinot Grigio or Chianti from La Cacchiatora.  Adjacent to registration, guests will find the Domeniul Coroanei Segarcea “piazza” where the winery will pour its award-winning wines from VeritageMiami’s 2012 “Best in Glass Wine Challenge” among other treats.  The garden area will be transformed into a Martini & Rossi lounge in celebration of the brand’s 150th anniversary and feature the music of Spam All-Stars.  At the Celebrity Cruises’ kiosk, guests will have the opportunity to create their own custom spice rub.  Lining San Lorenzo Avenue will be more than 65 wine producers and importers displaying a collection of 300 wines from around the world, as well as top restaurants and caterers including Brasserie Central, Edge Steak & Bar, George’s Restaurant, Sawa, Trulucks, Tuyo, and many more. Guests will have the opportunity to mingle with wine producers and chefs, and share their experiences on Twitter for a chance to win great prizes. 
 
Also at the Fine Wine Tasting, top Miami chefs and culinary notables including Norman Van Aken, Linda Gassenheimer, Ingrid Hoffman, Bernie Matz and Allen Susser will be on hand to sign their cookbooks which will be available for purchase on-site through Books & Books.  All wines poured at the Fine Wine Tasting will be available for purchase.  Wine will also be served in various retail locations and guests that spend $100 or more at one of the participating stores will receive a complimentary bottle of wine.  At 5:30 p.m., members of Miami’s legal community will gather at Artefacto, for the Bilzin Sumberg fourth annual Associate Legal Mingle.

Saturday, April 20th, Pommery Champagne reception 6:30 p.m.; dinner 7:30 p.m.
The Orion Jet Center
14850 NW 44 Court
Miami.
Tickets are $300 per person and $3,000 per table of 10.
A restored 1940s Naval Air hangar is the stage for VeritageMiami’s final event, the Auction and Wine Dinner, presented by American Airlines and Orion Jet Center.  Guests will take a step back in time and enjoy a post World War II celebration, complete with vintage fighter planes, military vehicles and period cars.  The meal will take a completely different twist and feature the very modern cuisine of Chef Davide Brovelli of Il Sole di Ranco who will prepare a four-course Italian feast.  Throughout the evening, guests will also enjoy stunning auction lots, entertainment and award-winning wines from the Best in Glass Wine Challenge. 

VeritageMiami sponsors include: American Airlines, City National Bank and Orion Jet Center at the Vintner level; American Express, Bank of America, Carnival Corporation & PLC, Celebrity Cruises, db Bistro Moderne, Global Resources Registry, Greenberg Traurig, IBM, JW Marriott Marquis Miami, Miccosukee Resort & Gaming, Morrison, Brown Argiz & Farra, Munilla Family Foundation, Sunset Corners, Village of Merrick Park and Warren Moore Events at the Cellar Master level; Bacardi USA, CBIZ, Ernst & Young, Ryder System and Steiner Transocean Limited at the Cooper level; Bandito Brothers, Baptist Health South Florida, BB&T, Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod, Carlton Fields, Cisco Systems, Deloitte, Fairholme Capital Management, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Image Photo Services, Johnson & Wales University, Le Basque, MOSS, Nestle Waters North America, Northern Trust Corporation, NuStar Energy, Ocean Bank, Sabre Travel Network, World Fuel Services and Zuni Transportation at the Cooper level; Agilysys, Akerman Senterfitt, Domeniul Coroanei Segarcea, Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, Fragomen, JPMorgan Chase, La Cacciatora, Noven Pharmaceuticals, Right Management, The Coca-Cola Company, Vranken-Pommery Monopole and Sysco at the Connoisseur level; Books & Books, Botran, Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel, Holland & Knight, Miami Cocktails, Padilla Cigars, Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson, Vita Coco Water and White & Case at the Enthusiast level.  Media sponsors include: AroundTown Magazine, Business Improvement District of Coral Gables, Chat Chow, Cigar Aficionado, Comcast, Daily Business Review, Fisher Island Magazine, Miami Magazine, Miami New Times, NBC 6, Response Publishing Group, The Miami Herald – el Nuevo Herald, Tropic Magazine and Wine Spectator.

Miami Rum Renaissance Festival 4/15/13-4/21/13

soulofmiamifeatured
Miami Rum Renaissance Festival
Monday, April 15 to Sunday, April 21, 2013
Doubletree by Hilton Miami Airport Convention Center
Print711 Northwest 72nd Avenue
Miami, FL 33126
www.RumRenaissance.com

Tickets
Grand Tasting General Admission: $50 day passes
Grand Tasting VIP tickets: $65 per day: allow early access to the exhibits and complimentary tickets to the celebrity seminars. VIP ticket holders also enjoy access to a private area featuring complimentary cuisine and VIP cocktails.
Week-long VIP Tickets: a $250 Executive VIP pass grants admission to all events.
List of Seminars SOLD OUT
List of VIP Parties
Buy individual VIP party tickets online

The fifth annual Miami Rum Renaissance Festival ist the largest gathering of rum experts, professionals and enthusiasts in the world.

Last year, more than 8,000 rum enthusiasts attended the festival with 20,000 square feet of exhibit space. The new space spans 40,000 square feet, twice the size of last year’s event. Festival organizers are preparing for 15,000 attendees.

In addition to a week-long series of VIP parties, tasting sessions and celebrity seminars, the rum festival brings together members of the esteemed International Rum Expert Panel (RumXPs) for their annual tasting competition.

Two full days of Grand Tasting events for the public will take place on Saturday and Sunday, April 20 and 21. More than 240 spirits from the Caribbean and beyond will be available for sampling, along with a selection of island-style cuisine.

New this year is a half-day exhibit session exclusively for the beverage trade on Friday, April 19. Liquor store buyers, food and beverage managers, bartenders and other spirits trade professionals will be invited to attend.

The Miami Rum Renaissance Festival attracts cane spirit products and brands from all over the globe. Companies large and small will be on hand to present their rums to a global gathering of experts, reporters, critics and consumers.Among the products to be sampled by attendees are Abuelo 7, Abuelo 12, Abuelo Anjeo, Abuelo Centuria, Appleton Estate 12 year old, Appleton Estate Reserve, Atlantico Platino, Atlantico Private Cask, Atlantico Reserva, Bacardi 8 Años, Bacardi Gold, Bacardi Oakheart, Bacardi Pineapple Fusion, Bacardi Superior, Barbancourt 3 Star, Barbancourt 5 Star, Barbancourt 15 year Estate Reserve, Barbancourt Pango, Barbancourt White, Barcelo Gran Añejo, Barcelo Imperial, Barcelo Imperial Premium Blend 30 Aniversario, Barrilito 3 Star, Barritt’s Ginger Beer, Blackbeard Spiced, Blackheart, Black Roberts Spiced, Botran Reserva, Botran Reserva Blanca, Botran Solera, Brugal 1888, Brugal Blanco Especial, Caliche, Carta Vieja Añejo, Centenario 7, Deadhead, Debonaire Private Reserve 5, Debonaire Very Special Reserve 8, Debonaire Grand Reserve 15, Debonaire Premium Reserve 21, Debonaire Special Reserve Coffee, Debonaire Special Reserve Honey, Dictador 20, Diplomatico Ambassador, Diplomatico Añeja, Diplomatico Blanco, Diplomatico Reserva, Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva, Domain de Canton, Don Papa, DonQ Añejo, DonQ Coco, DonQ Cristal, DonQ Gold, DonQ Gran Añejo, DonQ Limon, DonQ Mojito, DonQ Pasion, Don Zavier Mamajuana, Dos Maderas 5+3, Dos Maderas PX 5+5, Dzama Amber Nosy-Be, Dzama Amber Cuvée Noire Prestige, Dzama Cuvée Blanche, Dzama Cuvée Blanche Prestige, Dzama Cuvée Noire, Dzama Vanilla 1 yo, Dzama Vanilla 10 yo, Dzama Vieux Rhum XV, Dzama White Nosy-Be, English Harbour 5 YO, English Harbour 10 YO, English Harbour 25 YO, Flor de Caña Centenario Gold 18, Flor de Caña Centenario 12, Flor de Caña Grand Reserve 7, Florida Old Reserve, Fresh Coconuts by Coconut King, Hampden Estate Gold, Libre Rum & Cola, Miami Club Rum Plantino, Montanya Oro, Montanya Platino, Mt Gay 1703, Mt Gay Black Barrel, Mt Gay Eclipse, Mt Gay XO, Novo Fogo Barrel-Aged Cachaça, Novo Fogo Silver Cachaça, Ocumare, Origenes Reserva Don Pancho, Origenes Reserva Especial 18, Papa’s Pilar Blonde, Papa’s Pilar Dark, Pink Pigeon, Plantation 20th Anniversary XO, Plantation Barbados 2000, Plantation Grande Reserve 5 year old, Plantation Grenada 2003, Plantation Guatemala Gran Añjeo, Plantation Jamaica 2000, Plantation Nicaragua 2001, Plantation Original Dark, Plantation Original Dark Overproof, Plantation Panama 2002, Plantation Three Stars White, Plantation Trinidad 1999, Poesia, Prichard’s Cranberry Rum, Prichard’s Crystal Rum, Prichard’s Fine Rum, Prichard’s Key Lime Rum, Prichard’s Private Stock, Prichard’s Spiced, Prichard’s Sweet Georgia Belle, R. St Barth, Real McCoy, Roble Viejo, Ron De Jeremy Reserva, Ron De Jeremy Spiced, Rum Fire, Santa Teresa 1796, Santa Teresa Añejo Gran Reserva, Santa Teresa Araku Coffee, Santa Teresa Claro, Santa Teresa Rhum Orange, Santa Teresa Selecto, Shellback Silver, Shellback Spiced, Trigo Reserva Añjea, Veroes, Viejo de Caldas 3, Viejo de Caldas Grand Reserva, Vizcaya Cask 12, Vizcaya Cristal, Vizcaya VXOP Cask 21, Wicked Dolphin Silver, Wild Geese Soldiers & Heroes Golden Rum, Wild Geese Soldiers & Heroes Premium Rum, Zacapa 23, Zafra 21, and Zaya.

Private Screening of The Leap 4/25/13

Private Screening of The Leap
Thursday, 04/25/2013, 06:30 pm –
Miami Jewish Health System-
Douglas Gardens Campus at 5200 NE 2nd Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33137
Webpage Link

Join The Miami Jewish Health Systems for a private screening of short film, “The Leap.” University of Miami graduate student, Yale Yang used science fiction to show the story of a physicist suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Come to a cocktail reception, prior to the screening at our Douglas Garden Campus, where the film was shot. Proceeds will help The NOTABLES, a supportive arm of MJHS Foundation. Screening admission is free and cocktail reception tickets can be purchased from our website.

Plaza Party at Marlins Park Featuring Willy Chirino 4/13/13

Plaza Party at Marlins Park Featuring Willy Chirino
Saturday, 04/13/2013, 06:00 pm – 11:59 pm
Willy-ChirinoMarlins Park
501 Marlins Way,
Miami, Florida 33125
Webpage Link

SATURDAY SPECTACULAR PLAZA PARTY AT MARLINS PARK TO FEATURE WILLY CHIRINO

WHAT: After the games, fans can make their way to the West Plaza and experience a post-game party often featuring top recording artists and entertainers. Grammy Award Winner and Miami salsa icon, Willy Chirino will launch the Saturday Spectacular Plaza Parties series when the Marlins take on the Philadelphia Phillies.

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 2013++
5:00 p.m. Pre-game festivities begin on The West Plaza (Live DJ)
6:30 p.m. Media interviews (pending approval)
6:45 p.m. VIP field access for first pitch
Post-game VIP access for the post-game performance will be available
(Please arrive no later than the 8th inning to gain VIP access for concert)
++Timeline subject to change

HOW: Media must RSVP to Carolina Perrina at cperrina@marlins.com to receive and be approved for credentials.

WHO: Chirino began his artistic career in Miami, releasing his first album in 1974. Since then, he has recorded over 20 albums, several of which have attained platinum and gold status. In 2006, his album “Son del Alma”, won a Grammy for Best Salsa/Merengue Album. As founder of the Willy Chirino Foundation, his philanthropic efforts have been recognized by UNICEF and the Department of State. He celebrated his 35th anniversary in music with his latest released album “Willy Chirino Live-35th Anniversary” (“Willy Chirino En Vivo-35 Aniversario”), a CD/DVD combo of the concert. This album brought him his first nomination for Best Salsa Album at the 2007 Latin Grammy Awards. Most recently, Chirino and his wife, singer/song writer Lissette Alvarez, released their first album together, Amarraditos (Bound to One Another). The CD includes a potpourri of classic Spanish-language love songs. Chirino’s latest album, “Pa’lante”, was released at spring 2008, after which he launched a world tour.

WHERE: Marlins Park / 501 Marlins Way / Miami, Florida 33125

Saturday Spectacular Post Game Events
All 13 Saturday home games will feature a pregame party on the West Plaza, with live music on the main stage, appearances from the Marlins and Office Depot Sea Creatures, interactive displays, and entertainment for all ages. After each Saturday Spectacular, fans will be invited to the West Plaza for a post-game event with national recording artists. Post-game events are included with the price of admission to each Saturday Spectacular.

Let’s Invest For Tomorrow, Liberty City! 4/27/13

Let’s Invest For Tomorrow, Liberty City!
Saturday, 04/27/2013, 11:00 am – 02:00 pm
Charles Hadley Park
1350 NW 50 St,
Miami, Florida 33142
Facebook Link

NHSSF is hosting this community event with seven partner organizations and Wells Fargo’s NeighborhoodLIFT program to provide an opportunity for residents to learn about affordable housing opportunities, homebuyer education, foreclosure prevention, affordable rental units, and other housing information. We will have free food, a DJ, and other family fun! If you’re inerested in volunteer, we need you for event operations: set-up, tear down, and everything in between!

Florida International University’s Communication Arts Forum 4/17/13

Florida International University’s Communication Arts Forum
Wednesday, 04/17/2013, 04:00 pm – 08:00 pm
Florida International University South Campus
11200 S.W. 8th Street,
Miami, Florida 33199
Webpage Link

Communication Arts Forum is an event that allows FIU students to compete in debate and speeches. This year’s keynote speaker is Francis Suarez, City of Miami Commissioner (District 4) and mayoral candidate. Guests will see key faculty from across the disciplines at FIU talking about the importance of communication. The three Speak-Off student finalists will deliver their speeches and the winner will be determined by an audience vote.

MANO Fine Art presents Part of A Conversation 4/20/13

MANO Fine Art presents Part of A Conversation
Saturday, 04/20/2013, 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
MANO Fine Art presents Part of A Conversation with logo__edited-6MANO Fine Art Project Space
4225 SW 75 Ave (2nd Flr),
Miami, Florida 33134
Facebook Link

MANO Fine Art Project Space invites you the Opening Reception for their newest exhibition “Part of A Conversation” on Saturday, April 20th during the Bird Road Art walk.

Abdiel Acosta, Luis Berros, Silvina Castillo, Diana Contreas, Patricia Schnall-Gutierrez, Vicente Fabre, Mila Hajjar, Richard Kurtz, Elena Lasala, MANO, Aurora Molina and Augusto Sanchez

The exhibition entitled “Part of A Conversation” is an extraordinary visual interplay of art and language.featuring contemporary works by twelve Miami-based artists. The works are as individual as the artists themselves with the common denominator being the combination of text and imagery to create provocative insightful and playful visual dialogues with the viewer. Passages of text, letter forms and remarkable gestural strokes that suggest writing yet remain illegible engage the viewer to “read” the artworks. While other works focus on repetitive patterns, such as linear rows and geometric shapes. Mostly, however, “reading” the artwork encourages viewers to be part of a conversation.

MANO Fine Art Project Space is the working studio of Miami-based artist MANO and an exhibition and project space for art related events. MANO Fine Art participates in the Bird Road Art Walk, held on the third Saturday of each month. For more information contact 305.467.6819 or visit http://www.manofineart.com/

Bird Road Art Walk:
The Bird Road Art Walk ( Ranked Miami’s Best Art Walk 2011 by Miami New Times) is held on the third Saturday of each month from 7:00 – 10:00 pm. Located just off of the Palmetto Expressway and Bird Road, visitors will find a thriving community of artists’ studios, art galleries, art schools and live stage. During the monthly art walk visitors have the opportunity to meet the artists and visit their studios, which are normally only open to the public by appointment.

Bird Road Art Walk 4/20/13

soulofmiamifeatured

Bird Road Art Walk-April 20th (& every 3rd Saturday of each month)
Saturday, 04/20/2013, 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
BRAD April 2013 E-blast_edited-2Bird Road Art District
The Bird Road Art District is conveniently located just off of the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) and Bird Road (SW 40th Street). The majority of the studios are located off of SW 75 Ave & SW 74 Ave.,
4229 SW 75 Ave, Florida Miami
Facebook Link

In 2011, Miami New Times ranked The Bird Road Art Walk as Miami’s Best Art Walk. Since then the Bird Road Art Walk has continued growing and has gotten even better. Visitors to the area will find a thriving community of artists who open their studios, art galleries, alternative spaces, art schools and even a live theater stage to the public.

We invite you to join us on Saturday,April 20th 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm, for an evening of live demonstrations, glass blowing, sculpture, ceramics, stained glass, drawing, painting, photography, installations, performance art, spoken word, poetry, music and an opportunity to meet the artists who create them.

This event is open and free to the public.

Enjoy ample free parking and a free shuttle service that loops continuously throughout the district stopping at each participating artists’ studio and gallery. Start your Art Walk at any of the participating studios.

Click here for listing: http://www.thebirdroadartdistrict.com/Bird-Road-Art-Walk.html

The artists’ studios are open to the public during the Bird Road Art Walk on the 3rd Saturday of every month from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm and by appointment all other times.

The Art Walk takes place just east of the Palmetto Expressway’s 40th Street Exit and just south of 40th Street (also known as “Bird Road”).

Enjoy ample free parking, a complimentary shuttle service and start your Art Walk at any of the participating studios. Click on link for listing: http://www.thebirdroadartdistrict.com/Bird-Road-Art-Walk.html

About the Bird Road Art Walk:
The Bird Road Art Walk is organized by an alliance of artists founded in 2010. The member-powered organization promotes and funds experiences that bring artists, art enthusiasts and collectors together. Events include the monthly Bird Road Art Walk, which features open studios, alternative spaces and creative businesses.

Since the 1980s, the Bird Road Art Districts’ slanted warehouses, antique stores and overall industrial vibe have provided a haven for artists. Today visitors will find a thriving community of more than 40 artists and an up and coming art scene, featuring a broad range of contemporary, emerging and established artists working in a variety of mediums.

Stay Connected with the Bird Road Art District:
Call: 305.467.6819
Web: http://www.thebirdroadartdistrict.com/
Facebook:Bird Road Art District
Twitter:@BirdRoadArts

Miami New Times Best of Miami
Click here to read article: http://www.miaminewtimes.com/bestof/2011/award/best-art-walk-2827062/

 

6th Annual Miami International Agriculture, Horse and Cattle Show 4/12/13-4/14/13

6th Annual Miami International Agriculture, Horse and Cattle Show
April 12-14, 2013
Tropical Park
7900 SW 40th Street
Miami, FL
www.miamicattleshow.com.

Free Admission, Activities & Parking
 
Miami-Dade County is proudly hosting the 6th Annual Miami International Agriculture, Horse and Cattle Show, celebrating Miami as an international gateway to the agriculture industry.
 
Featuring:
Purebred cattle and farm animal exhibitions
International Live Cattle and Equine auctions
Kids Fun Zone with games and pony rides
Performances by Orlando’s "The Medieval Times"
Horseback skills and Polo exhibitions
International Music
Farmers Market

Electrifying “New Work” By Karen Peterson And Dancers 4/11/13-4/12/13

Electrifying “New Work” By Karen Peterson And Dancers
Thursday, 04/11/2013, 08:00 pm – 09:30 pm
KPD-Curtain-CallMiami Dade County Auditorium’s On Stage Black Box Theater
2901 W. Flagler Street,
Miami, Florida 33135
Webpage Link

Karen Peterson and Dancers, the nation’s premier mixed-abilities dance company in the southeast, present New Work April 11 and 12 at Miami-Dade County Auditorium’s On-Stage Black Box Theater. The new program unites two of Miami’s foremost choreographers – Dale Andree and Joanne Barrett – with guest-dancers from KPD’s international collaborations in Sarajevo.

$18 adults ($13 students and seniors at the door). Available via Ticketmaster 800-745-3000 or purchase at the door. For more information, call 305-547-5414.

Rina Yoga Unplugged: The Living Room Series 4/19/13

Rina Yoga Unplugged: The Living Room Series
Friday, 04/19/2013, 09:30 pm – 11:50 pm
Picture-2Rina Yoga in the Roads
1250 Coral Way,
Miami, Florida 33145
Webpage Link

Three become one: Solo Artists Oscar Fuentes, Adolfo Cuellar and Marie Whitman come together to blend and blur the lines between speech, song and string. Their distinct alchemy transforms the environment and enchants the audience by re-inventing the art of storytelling

Miami Golf Month April 2013

April Is Miami Golf Month

Golfers can hit the links in Greater Miami and the Beaches for less this spring as The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) announces its second annual Miami Golf Month.  From April 1 – 30, amateurs and pros can set their tee times on a number of the destinations’ most breathtaking, challenging and exhilarating courses. 
 
With sunshine year-round, more than 30 courses for players to choose from and home to one of only four World Golf Championship events, Greater Miami and the Beaches is a premier golf destination.  With special offers, discounts and hotel packages distinguishing Miami Golf Month, April has become an ideal time to polish one’s par.  
 
“In Miami and the Beaches, it’s ‘golf season’ all year long.   Our courses offer visitors from around the globe stunning views while keeping them challenged with some of the world’s most sophisticated courses.  The golfing options along with the cultural offerings have made Greater Miami and the Beaches a very desirable destination,” said William D. Talbert III, CDME, president and CEO of the GMCVB.  “It’s been a thrill and very rewarding to watch our Miami Temptations Program offerings become so popular and we’re proud that Miami Golf Month was well received last year.  It’s back this April by popular demand!”
 
Golf Resorts and Golf Courses participating in Miami Golf Month this year include:
·         The Biltmore Golf Club
·         Briar Bay Golf Course
·         Country Club of Miami
·         Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne
·         Doral Golf Resort & Spa
·         Greynolds Golf Course
·         Keys Gate Golf
·         Killian Greens Golf Club (New to the program this year)
·         Miami Beach Golf Club
·         Miami Springs Golf & Country Club (New to the program this year)
·         Normandy Shores Golf Course
·         Palmetto Golf Course
·         Shula’s Hotel & Golf Club
·         Turnberry Isle Miami
 
And, five courses are making it easy for beginners to take advantage of the game by offering a 9-hole special as low as $20 with tax included:
·         Country Club of Miami (FREE)
·         Killian Greens
·         Miami Springs Golf Course
·         Palmetto Golf Course
·         Shula’s Golf Club
 
For details on Miami Golf Month, visit the dedicated website: www.MiamiGolfMonth.com .
 
Miami Golf Month is part of the GMCVB’s increasingly popular Miami Temptations Program, which takes a thematic focus on the best that Miami has to offer throughout the year at attractive prices. Other programs include Shop Miami Month (February), Miami Film Month (March), Miami Museums Month (May), Miami Romance Month (June), Miami Spa Month (July-August), Miami Spice Restaurant Month (August-September), Miami Attractions Month (October) and Miami Live Music Month (November). For more information on the Miami Temptations Programs please visit www.MiamiTemptations.com .

Miami Eats: YUM for the entire family at Miami Science Museum 4/20/13

Miami Eats: YUM for the entire family at Miami Science Museum
yumSaturday, April 20, 2013, 10:00am until 5:00pm
Miami Science Museum
3280 South Miami Avenue
Miami, Florida 33129  
Event page.

Regular admission is $14.95 for adults ($12.70 for Miami-Dade County residents); and $10.95 for seniors (62+), children (ages 3 – 12), and students with an I.D. ($9.30 for children, students and seniors who are Miami-Dade County residents). * Buy One Get One Free Museum Admission: if you bring two non-perishable food items per person to be donated to Farm Share and Chapman Partnership (limit two free admissions per family/transaction).

Family friendly food festival exploring the art and science of how Miami grows, cooks and enjoys food.

Featuring: Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli, Food Network Chopped Winner and owner of top local restaurant Eating House, unique food exhibits, fun cooking demos with delicious tastings and special cooking classes that will show you the science behind food while also stimulating your taste buds!

Miami Eats will have several activities for the entire family to enjoy including:

• Cooking demos/tastings from celebrity Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli of Miami’s acclaimed Eating House, Chef John Richards and student chefs of the Miami Culinary Institute and TUYO, and Whole Foods

• Cooking classes sponsored by Common Threads and Chef Kat Duran

• DIY hydroponics class hosted by Hydrofarm, which will also be raffling off a hydroponic kit to two lucky winners

• Design your own “healthy” plate hosted by the Ceramic League of Miami

• Oh Honey, Bee Hive presentation all about bees with a special honey tasting from Beekeeper Inese Bunch

• Special airing of “Fish Meat” film about sustainable fisheries by Fish Navy Films

• Fruit and Veggie Painting Lesson with Artist Donna Torres

• Learn the history behind the Vizcaya Estate Farm Village. James Deering, owner of the estate, created a picturesque farm on the land where the museum sits today that produced vegetables and herbs for the kitchens.

• Make your own nitrogen ice cream courtesy of Florida International University Chaplin School of Hospitality &Tourism Management.

• Enjoy a cultural experience with a Tea Ceremony and Yummy Chun Buns Tasting by Susan Lee Chun.

• Fun with food chemistry demonstrations on sugars, fats and all that (it might surprise you) with Miami Science Museum and partners.

• Select tables and booths showcasing nutrition and healthy eating with the University of Miami’s Nutrigardens and Eat Well Foods.

Miami Science Museum’s Summer Camp 2013

Miami Science Museum’s 2013 Summer Camp
miasciMiami Science Museum
3280 S. Miami Ave
Miami, FL 33129

Register Online. Registrations are entered on a first-come, first-served basis online, by fax at (305) 646-4300, by email at summercamp@miamisci.org  or at the Museum’s box office. The cutoff time for registrations for an upcoming week is the Friday before at 4 p.m.

Click here for more information, call the camp registrar at (305) 646-4222, or email summercamp@miamisci.org .

The eight one-week individual sessions are as follows:
Session 1: June 17 – 21
Session 2: June 24 – 28
Session 3: July 1 – 5 (No classes on the 4th of July)
Session 4: July 8 – 12
Session 5: July 15 – 19
Session 6: July 22 – 26
Session 7: July 29 – August 2
Session 8: August 5 – 9
 
Class times are 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Before Care (7:45–9 a.m.) and After Care (4–6 p.m.) are offered at an additional cost.
 
Students in classes involving field trips will depart from the Miami Science Museum at 9:10 a.m.

The Miami Science Museum is gearing up for its 47th Annual Summer Camp! During the eight one-week camp sessions, kids aged 4-14 will enjoy engaging, unique, fun-filled experiences including ecology, robotics, engineering, technology, field trips and more. While camp activities will be specific to the session chosen each week, each class will feature science lessons, projects, experiments, and crafts, interspersed with time to explore the museum galleries, planetarium or theater shows, and a 30-minute outdoor PE time. Campers in the 2nd through 8th grade groups will also go on field trips.
 
Classes are offered in the following age categories (campers must be entering the grade(s) of the group in August 2013):
Pre-K (age 4 as of August 2013; must be potty-trained and able to handle all aspects of using the restroom alone)
Kindergarten
1st Grade
2nd & 3rd Grades
4th & 5th Grades
6th, 7th & 8th Grades
 
For a complete listing of classes for each age category, visit www.miamisci.org/summercamp/classdesc.php.
 
Instructor to camper ratio is 1:10. Lead teachers are certified teachers with over 5-10 years of teaching experience in Miami-Dade County public and private schools, who will deliver hands-on, interactive learning. Each lead teacher has experience working with children in the grade level to which they are assigned. Each class will also have a teaching aide.
 
Campers should bring their own lunch. Two healthy snacks will be provided each day.
 
Miami Science Museum 2013 Summer Camp is made possible by the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. The Children’s Trust provides funding for scholarships to non-profit organizations that enable abused, neglected, and disadvantaged children to attend summer camp classes.

Photographs of Spoken Soul Festival & Brunch

Spoken Soul Festival is three days of philanthropy, showcase, and support. The main SWAN Spoken Soul Showcase Vol. 6 celebrates SWAN DAY 2013.

Support Women Arts NOW! Winner of Miami New Time’s “Best of Miami” Best Event to Meet Intelligent Women, is featured some of the most talented women artists of South Florida. This free event showcased twelve women artists inside the historic Gibson Miami Showroom. For more information, check out: www.spokensoulfestival.com


Spoken Soul Festival
Gibson Miami Showroom
2751 North Miami Avenue
Miami, FL 33127
www.spokensoulfestival.com

 

Esperanza Spalding at the Arsht Center 4/19/13

Esperanza Spalding at the Arsht Center
spaldingFriday, April 19 @ 8:30 PM
Radio Music Society
Knight Concert Hall
1300 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL 33132
Box Office (305) 949-6722
www.arshtcenter.org
Click Here for Tickets

With an inimitable style and spirited presence that is deeply rooted in jazz, SPALDING has made an impressive mark in the music world since her 2006 solo debut. This Grammy-winning jazz bassist and singer celebrates a funky new album sure to captivate South Florida audiences!

World Fashion Organization Event Miami Fashion AIDS Awareness 4/20/13

World Fashion Organization EVENT | Miami Fashion | AIDS Awareness
Saturday, 04/20/2013, 05:00 pm
Sofitel Miami
5800 Blue Lagoon Dr
Miami, Florida 33126
Buy Tickets

Fashion Designers Expo Florida, now partnered with the World Fashion Organization, and non-profit Let the Runway Meet the Cause, Inc., are calling all Politicians, Celebrities, Socialites, News Anchors, Athletes, Radio Personalities, Fashionistas, Press|Media, Bloggers, and Florida Residents to show that we ALL DO CARE about our communities. Miami-Dade and Broward Counties are claimed to be #1 & 2 in the NATION for the spread of HIV/AIDS! WE HAVE TO DO SOMETHING!

Join us during our Fashion Week as we fashionably educate our communities about the AIDS epidemic taking over. We have to start the conversation. Life is a RUNWAY. Let’s WALK RED. Let’s TALK RED! Let the Runway Meet the Cause!

The schedule of events for this Emerging Industry Fashion Week on April 18th-20th is listed below. Each day will be filled with Fashion and Philanthropy. Be a part of supporting the emerging fashion talent in your community as well as saving lives.

Purchase Tickets NOW!

Club Blue Networking & Cocktails 4/10/13

Club Blue Networking & Cocktails
Wednesday, 04/10/2013, 06:00 pm – 09:00 pm
ClubBlueHoxton1The Hoxton an Urban Beach House
1111 SW 1st Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link

Club Blue Miami, a young professionals group for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, presents Networking and Cocktails. Club Blue Miami hopes to continue to attract Miami-Dade’s most motivated, energetic young professionals, ages 45 and younger, who will become the community’s future leaders.

A $25 minimum donation will include 1 drink and bar bites. For more information email: club blue@bgcmia.org

Industry Leaders At Miami Finance Forum CEO Power Breakfast Discuss Hedge Fund Investment Outlook For 2013 4/5/13

Industry Leaders At Miami Finance Forum CEO Power Breakfast Discuss Hedge Fund Investment Outlook For 2013
Friday, 04/05/2013, 07:30 am – 09:30 am
MFF-LogoThe Ballroom at Conrad Miami
1395 Brickell Ave.,
Miami, Florida 33131
RSVP Link

MIAMI – April 2, 2013 – The Miami Finance Forum (MFF) will host a “CEO Power Breakfast” panel discussion titled, “Hedge Funds 2013 Outlook.” The panel, moderated by Carlos Deupi, MFF chairman and corporate attorney with Squire Sanders, will provide insight and guidance related to hedge fund investment outlooks for 2013. The event takes place at 7:30 a.m. Friday, April 5, at the Ballroom of Conrad Miami, 1395 Brickell Avenue, Miami, FL 33131.

Panelists will discuss a variety of key topics including: Today’s investment environment for hedge funds, strategies that worked well in 2012 and reasons to consider investing in hedge funds; impact of foreign markets on U.S. and worldwide investment; the most attractive emerging markets for investment; and the impact of new regulations on due-diligence practices for hedge funds.

Panel speakers include leaders and investment officials from top hedge funds and investment firms:

● Peter Young, President, Advanced Fund Administration
● Jesse Wachs, Portfolio Manager, Powell Investment Advisors
● Monique B. Goihman – Director, Collins Capital
● Jonathan Fischer, Forrestal Capital

O’Miami Poetry Month April 2013

O, Miami Poetry Festival
April 2013
Around Miami
Schedule
omiami.org
Twitter @omiamifestival
ThatsSoMiami.tumblr.com

“Poetry for all” comes back to Miami in 2013
O, Miami Poetry Festival returns in 2013 to once again attempt to deliver a poem to all 2.6 million+ residents of Miami-Dade County during the month of April.

Created by University of Wynwood with founding sponsor the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, O, Miami is both a celebration of contemporary poetry and an experimental project to turn a metropolitan area into a canvas for the literary arts.

In 2011, we flew poems behind airplanes, dropped them out of helicopters, sewed them into clothing, and attached them to every single bus in Miami-Dade County. We produced events with actors (James Franco); choreographers (Jonah Bokaer, Rashaun Mitchell); artists (Anne Carson, Sam Winston); and, yes, poets (W.S. Merwin, Tracy K. Smith, Raúl Zurita). The festival was covered nationally and internationally by The New Yorker, NPR’s Morning Edition, Dwell magazine, Best American Poetry, and the Associated Press, and chronicled in a new Knight Foundation report. http://www.knightarts.org/omiami/index.html

“Poetry is a living, breathing force that can light up the city. O, Miami is its platform. The written word leaves the printed page for a parade on South Beach, morphs into interpretive dance in Hialeah, and along the way helps art become part of people’s everyday lives,” said Alberto Ibargüen, president of Knight Foundation. At the conclusion of the 2011 festival, The Miami Herald asked, “Will we ever see another month so full of poetry?”
The answer is, Yes.
Y tambien, Sí.
University of Wynwood

This April, we will present a brand-new series of projects, interventions, and events that will once again re-imagine what’s possible in the presentation of contemporary poetry, including:
-A special celebration with Thurston Moore, lead singer of Sonic Youth; Richard Blanco, the Miami-raised poet who read at the 2013 Presidential Inauguration; and Megan Amram, a poet, comedian, and writer for the NBC show Parks & Recreation
-A final weekend, hosted by The Betsy Hotel-South Beach, that will feature readings and performances from the most diverse group of poets we’ve ever assembled, including Kevin Young, Chase Twitchell, Jean Portante, Jose Angel Leyva, Eduardo C. Corral, and Frank Báez
-A book called “That’s So Miami!” published by you, the people of South Florida. Send us your poems that begin or end with the phrase #ThatsSoMiami and we’ll play them on WLRN 91.3 FM, post them online and select the best ones to go into the book.
-“Poetry is Dead”: the first-ever poetry parade on South Beach featuring performances by well known dead poets
-A special “local poem” displayed pasted on 100 lampposts banners throughout Miami-Dade County
-Poems written by South Floridians flown behind airplanes
-Brand-new “poetry films” commissioned from and created by the geniuses behind the Borscht Film Festival
-A Tatoo + Poetry Night featuring legendary tattoo artist Duke Snyder
-A new dance + poetry piece by Merce Cunningham alumni Rashuan Mitchell and Silas Reiner commissioned and created for O, Miami
-An opening ceremony with Miami legend Trick Daddy -The first-ever Miami Literary Trivia Night -An open mic reading series for locals -A “poetry soapbox”: everyday at 5 p.m., a poet will read on the front steps of The Betsy Hotel -A poetry-themed flash mob

Miami For a taste of what’s to come this April, check out the multimedia report on our inaugural festival, describing how O,MIami made poetry compelling in one of the country’s most diverse cities. The report, commissioned by Knight Foundation, is available at knightarts.org/ omiami.
O, Miami Poetry Festival was created in 2011 by the University of Wynwood and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. The festival occurs every other year and has the mission of delivering a poem to every single person in Miami-Dade County in the span of one month. For more, visit omiami.org.

Knight Foundation supports transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, advance media innovation, engage communities and foster the arts. O,Miami was inspired by Knight Foundation’s arts program, which aims to engage and enrich communities in part by bringing art to unexpected places. For more, visit knightarts.org/omiami.

Adventures of the Foodaholic’s 1 Year Anniversary Celebration at NoVe Kitchen & Bar

If you are looking for a verified, solid restaurant to devour some complimentary cuisine and drinks, do we have a marvelous tip for you! Find a food bloggers party and get your freeloading-ass on that coveted guest list!

We had the privilege of attending Maria, The Foodaholic’s, First Blogiversary celebration for Adventures of the Foodaholic at NoVe Kitchen and Bar on March 13th. Maria’s blog, ”Adventures of the Foodaholic”,  is a joy to peruse, loads of real informative reviews, solid tips and upcoming not-to-be-missed events.  One can sense the sincere passion she infuses in her eloquent, saliva-inducing prose. Sweet, vivacious and funny, Maria exudes a fabulous vibe. The restaurant put on quite a culinary show. Continue reading “Adventures of the Foodaholic’s 1 Year Anniversary Celebration at NoVe Kitchen & Bar”

Bloom: Student & Teacher showcase 6/2/13

Bloom: Student & Teacher showcase
Sunday, 06/02/2013, 01:00 pm – 02:00 pm
Bloom_5x7Trail Theater
3715 SW 8th atreet,
miami, Florida 33133
RSVP Link

Order tickets via Eventbrite:
http://belly2abs-bloom-efbevent.eventbrite.com/

Belly2Abs presents: BLOOM

Bloom is our annual spring/summer show with special presentation of all of our Teachers and Instructors as well as choreographies performed by our students. Our artistic performances are carefully created by our own very talented staff. Watch some of the most alluring Bellydance performances, Flamenco Fusion dance, Tribal Fusion’s electric beats, ATS earthy dance style, and many more delightful pieces. Students will showcase their dedication in their dance in our show. BLOOM.

Wonderland Industry Tuesdays 4/1/13

Wonderland Industry Tuesdays! No cover on Rick C’s Exclusive VIP list
Sunday, 04/02/2013, 11:00 pm – 05:00 am
new-wonderland-in-the-biz-tuesdaysWonderland Miami
7770 Biscayne Blvd,
MIAMI, Florida 33131
Webpage Link

Wonderland is Miami’s latest and Most Exclusive Gentlemans club with with most gorgeous and professional
entertainers and staff from all over the world!

The Plush Nightclub Layout along with a mouth watering gourmet menu makes Wonderland one of a kind.

This and Every Tuesday come join the lovely Wonderland staff and myself for “Industry Tuesdays”
Known as the “Sexiest Tuesday Night Party In the industry

For Complimentary Admission Text “WONDERLAND” to 786 273 7401 or 786 303 2787 to enlist on RICK C’s Exclisive
NO Cover VIP LIST

For Select $150 Bottle Specials, Text “WONDERLAND BTL RSVP” to 786 273 7401 or 786 303 2787
Bottle special will only be honored with a reservation.

Dress Code is enforced.No Athletic gear of any kind and No Shorts. Admission is at doorman’s discretion

RICK C
VIP Host
Wonderland Miami
786 273 7401 / 786 303 2787
Facebook/Rickchaumin
twitter@Hmc2575
eMAIL hmc2575@gmail.com

The World’s Largest Food Truck Event Ever 4/20/13

The World’s Largest Food Truck Event Ever
Saturday, 04/20/2013, 04:30 pm – 10:00 pm
WorldsLargest_LogoMagic City Casino
450 NW 37th Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33125
Webpage Link

Magic City Casino, Miami’s first casino to offer Las Vegas style slot machines, in partnership with Burger Beast will present the World’s Largest Food Truck Event Ever with over 60 South Florida food trucks serving a range of gourmet specialties. The preceding parade will be considered an official attempt to break the Guinness World Record for “The Largest Parade of Food Trucks.”

Admission to this event is free.

Jake and Elwood Blues Brothers Themed 2013 Be A Kid Again Children’s Museum Gala 4/6/13

Jake and Elwood Blues Brothers Themed 2013 Be A Kid Again Children’s Museum Gala 
Saturday, April 6th at 6:30 PM
Miami Children’s Museum (MCM)
980 MacArthur Causeway
Miami, FL

This year’s theme, the Blues Brothers’ “We’re on a Mission” will celebrate exceptional educational programming and showcase a far out live auction hosted by popular celebrities Dave Barry and Paul Castronovo. The night will also feature a one of a kind Silent Auction. Guests will groove the night away to a spectacular multimedia stage production by Jake and Elwood Blues Revue, the complete Blues Brothers ™ tribute.

Considered by many to be the most fun event of the South Florida Social Season, Miami Children’s Museum’s Be A Kid Again Gala features exceptional live entertainment, luxurious auctions and a culinary experience unlike any other. Premier Sponsors for the event are Alan Potamkin and Brigett Rok and the Fairholme Foundation.  Presenting Sponsors are Jeff and Yolanda Berkowitz, Coastal Construction Group and the Miami Marlins/David Samson.  The event is chaired by Mike and Chris Weinberg.

“MCM has always provided exceptional educational programming to children and families throughout South Florida,” says Jeffrey Berkowitz, Chairman of the Board for the Miami Children’s Museum. “The funds raised at the Be A Kid Again Gala help us ensure that all children continue to have access to these programs.”

Guests will feel like a kid again from the moment they enter the Museum. The night kicks off with a not to be missed cocktail reception inside the Museum’s galleries filled with an extensive silent auction, featuring a wine section with exclusive lots from all over the world.  The main events of the evening, the energetic live auction featuring items that include a portrait by Romero Britto, an automotive lease from the Collection and Limited edition Girard-Perregaux, iconic FOReverglades luxury timepiece from their new Hawk collection, culminating with the spectacular performance by Jake and Elwood Blues Revue, the complete Blues Brothers â„¢ tribute will have you bidding and dancing the night away.

And completing our dynamic Blues Brothers themed extravaganza is a taste tempting array of treats that bring to life all the iconic Chicagoland locations from the movie.  Chow down at Aretha Franklin’s Soul Café! Get a Musical food transfusion at Ray Charles’ Music Exchange!  “Play Ball” with the food at Wrigley Field! All this and much, much more!

By being a kid again for a night, you will help support MCM’s important mission of ensuring that world-class educational programming is accessible to ALL children in our community.

The 2013 Be A Kid Again Gala Host Committee includes: Lisa Akin, Michele Berlowitz, Jeff Berkowitz, Yolanda Berkowitz, Angela Birdman, Tina Carlo, Alexis Cooper, Marianne Devine, Rebecca Dreyfuss, Lara Gallardo, Aaron Glickman, Leslie Golan, Michael Grieco, Dana Hagendorf, Shannon Hori, Donald Jones, Karla Jones Stone, DJ Kerr, Erika Koopman, Rahul Kothari, Susan Lampen, Gisela Lowenstein, Pam Luria, Jackie Malamed, Joanne Messing, Janet Moreira Gamble, Corey Narson, Melissa Netkin, Adrienne Pardo, Beverly Parker, Wayne Pathman, Gloria Porcella, Lori Reimer, Manny Rodriguez, Lara Rosenbaum, Howard Rosenbaum, Mark Rousso, Katherine Rubino, Millinda Sinnreich, Mijanou Spurdle, Sarah Sullivan, Beth Tasca, Peter White

Miami Children’s Museum offers bilingual and interactive exhibits; programs and classes and learning materials related to arts, culture, community and communication.  MCM has 14 interactive galleries and houses many exciting and fun traveling exhibits.

Miami Children’s Museum is dedicated to enriching the lives of all children by fostering a love of learning and enabling children to realize their highest potential.  Through arts and educational programs, MCM seeks to include and target all audiences in Miami’s changing and diverse community by becoming the “town center” for Miami-Dade County’s children and families. The Miami Children’s Museum is the recipient of the Bank of America’s Distinguished Education Award presented by the Beacon Council.

Photographs of Bird Road Art Walk on 3/16/13

Bird Road Art Walk on Saturday, March 16, 2013. What a great art walk, it has grown so much.  If you have not made it out to this art walk you should make the trip.  The walk is to artist studios, so you get to meet the artist, ask them questions and get to see the space where they create their art.   Click here for a list of the participating Bird Road Art District Studios and see you all next month

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Paint City Miami 4/5/13

Paint City
Friday, 04/05/2013, 06:30 pm – 09:00 pm
Miami Beach Urban Studios
420 Lincoln Road, Suite 440,
Miami, Florida 33199
Webpage Link

The Art + Art History Department and the FIU Alumni Association are hosting Paint City, an alumni art exhibition which surveys the contemporary state of painting in South Florida and beyond.

The event takes place on Friday, April 5th at 6:30 pm at the FIU College of Architecture + The Arts Miami Beach Urban Studios on Lincoln Road. 420 Lincoln Road, Suite 440, Miami FL 33199

The night will feature the work of five distinguished CARTA alumni artists, as well as a cocktail reception and silent auction.

Interested parties must RSVP by March 28, 2013 to Gisette Pique at gpique@fiu.edu or call at (305) 348-2897

Photographs of 2nd Annual “Voices of Leadership” VIP Reception at Briza on the Bay on 3/18/13

2nd Annual “Voices of Leadership” VIP Reception and Miami Launch of Broadway Musical Fela! at Briza on the Bay on Monday, March 18, 2013.  National Voices for Equality, Education, and Enlightenment (NVEEE), a South Florida based anti-bullying organization, will welcome back celebrities, elected officials, young artists, and educators for their 2nd annual Voices of Leadership reception.

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La Voz Kids with Paulina Rubio and Prince Royce 3/30/13

La Voz Kids with Paulina Rubio and Prince Royce
Saturday, 03/30/2013, 01:00 pm – 06:00 pm
vozkidsnot disclosed yet
not disclosed yet,
not disclosed yet, Florida Miami
Webpage Link

La Voz Kids, a Spanish version of the hit tv show The Voice, will be filming in Miami, and free audience tickets are available for anyone over the age of 16. The announced judges so far are, Paulina Rubio and Prince Royce. Fans can request tickets as indicated on the flyer. Send an email to miamitalentcasting@gmail.com with full name, age, date of show you want to attend and phone, also attach the picture of head of group. You may request as many tickets as you’d like as long as all in the group attend together, if not they may be requested individually. We hope to have a great first season here in Miami with the exciting and energetic audience Miami has !

Seitlin Corporate Warriors Challenge 5k Walk/Run 5/4/13

Seitlin Corporate Warriors Challenge 5k Walk/Run
Saturday, 05/04/2013, 07:30 am –
Tropical Park
7900 SW 40th St,
Miami, Florida 33155
Webpage Link

Make strides at South Florida’s largest Corporate Wellness Challenge and see how you match-up against top local companies and individuals! Test your speed, improve your training, race your friends or just start running or walking for better health and join us at the SCWC 5k Timed Endurance Walk/Run. Open to individual participants and local businesses. Run by yourself or with your office and do your part to support wellness within your community!

Florida International University and The Betsy South Beach Present Dov Seidman 4/1/13

Florida International University and The Betsy South Beach Present Dov Seidman
Monday, 04/01/2013, 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Florida International University – Modesto A. Maidique Campus
11200 SW 8 Street,
Miami, Florida 33199
RSVP Link

On Monday, April 1 from 10 am to 11:30 am Florida International University and The Betsy South Beach will present a talk with Dov Seidman “Rethinking the World and Your Place in It” followed by a panel discussion. Dov Seidman is the Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of LRN and Author of “HOW: Why HOW We Do Anything Means Everything.”

The event, which takes place at the FIU Graham Center Ballrooms, on the Modesto A. Maidique Campus is free and open to the public. Reservations are suggested at artsandculture@thebetsyhotel.com.

Third Annual Paint Me Miami Art Competition Art 4/15/13

Third Annual Paint Me Miami Art Competition
Monday, 04/15/2013, 12:00 am –
Miami City Hall
3500 Pan American Dr., Miami, FL 33133,
Miam, Florida 33133
Webpage Link
“Paint Me Miami” is an open competition where all artists working in two-dimensional painting media are eligible to enter provided they meet the rules. To conform to the spirit of the awards, all work must be original and completed within the last two years and must not have won any previous prize or award in any other art competition. The subject must be inspired by an identifiable scene within the City of Miami boundaries (see map on www.paintmemiami.com). The size of paintings must be no larger than 30”×40”; oil, pastel, acrylics and water color work is acceptable. The entry fee is $20 and a maximum of three entries per artist is permitted. The deadline for submission is April 15, 2013.

MANO Fine Art…Celebrating Women …Celebrating Art 3/16/13

MANO Fine Art…Celebrating Women …Celebrating Art
Saturday, 03/16/2013, 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Fashion-Dreams-II-vertical-flyerMANO Fine Art Project Space
4225 SW 75 Ave (2nd Flr),
Miami, Florida FL
Facebook Link

Celebrating Women… Celebrating Art …. MANO Fine Art presents an encore reception for Faux Perfection, featuring the work of guest artist Toa Castellanos.

Faux Perfection is a multimedia exhibition which explores the concept and consequences of beauty as it is manifested by contemporary society. Castellanos employs the use of collage, drawing, painting, photography and installations both as technique and as a metaphor to bring a poignant focus to displaced values of beauty.

The event will take place during the Bird Road Art Walk.

About Toa Castellanos:
Toa Castellanos is passionate about many things, as an artist she channels her passion for life to explore issues that are consciously most pressing to her: women’s role in contemporary society, ecology, social justice and non-religious spirituality. In her search for expression Castellanos has mastered painting, collaging, print making, etching, monotypes, book art, and other mediums that allow her to articulate her fervor and concerns via several art forms.

Born in Cuba, raised and educated in the United States, with an MA in Art & Education from the University of Notre Dame, Toa Castellanos started her professional career as an artist in Latin America, where she worked with renowned Columbian artist Pedro Alcantara Herran, and established Cuadrante, a serigraph studio with Armando Martinez Berrio, Virginia Amaya, and Phanor Leon, and later worked with Fabio Daza and his group T-Graba until 2000 when she relocated to the USA. Since arriving to Miami, Castellanos has been actively involved in Miami’s growing art scene.

MANO Fine Art Project Space is the working studio of Miami-based artist MANO and an exhibition and project space for art related events. MANO Fine Art participates in the Bird Road Art Walk, held on the third Saturday of each month.

For more information contact 305.467.6819 or visit http://www.manofineart.com/

Bird Road Art Walk Saturday 3/16/13

Bird Road Art Walk-Saturday, March 16 (& every 3rd Saturday of each month)
Saturday, 03/16/2013, 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
558087_10151443248254855_57314213_nBird Road Art District
The Bird Road Art District is conveniently located just off of the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) and Bird Road (SW 40th Street). The majority of the studios are located off of SW 75 Ave & SW 74 Ave.,
4229 SW 75 Ave, Florida Miami
Facebook Link

In 2011, Miami New Times ranked The Bird Road Art Walk as Miami’s Best Art Walk. Since then the Bird Road Art Walk has continued growing and has gotten even better. Visitors to the area will find a thriving community of artists who open their studios, art galleries, alternative spaces, art schools and even a live theater stage to the public.

We invite you and your friends to join us on Saturday, March 16th, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm, for an evening of art and the opportunity to go behind the scenes and meet the artists in their own studios which normally are only open by appointment.

The Art Walk takes place just east of the Palmetto Expressway’s 40th Street Exit and just south of 40th Street (also known as “Bird Road”).

Enjoy ample free parking, a complimentary shuttle service and start your Art Walk at any of the participating studios. Click on link for listing: http://www.thebirdroadartdistrict.com/Bird-Road-Art-Walk.html

About the Bird Road Art Walk:
The Bird Road Art Walk is organized by an alliance of artists founded in 2010. The member-powered organization promotes and funds experiences that bring artists, art enthusiasts and collectors together. Events include the monthly Bird Road Art Walk, which features open studios, alternative spaces and creative businesses.

Since the 1980s, the Bird Road Art Districts’ slanted warehouses, antique stores and overall industrial vibe have provided a haven for artists. Today visitors will find a thriving community of more than 40 artists and an up and coming art scene, featuring a broad range of contemporary, emerging and established artists working in a variety of mediums.

Stay Connected with the Bird Road Art District:
Call: 305.467.6819
Web: http://www.thebirdroadartdistrict.com/
Facebook:Bird Road Art District
Twitter:@BirdRoadArts

The Miami Symphony Orchestra presents An Appalachian Spring 4/6/13

The Miami Symphony Orchestra presents An Appalachian Spring
Saturday, 04/06/2013, 08:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Appalachian-Spring-Miami-Diario-adHerbert & Nicole Wertheim Performing Arts Center (FIU)
11200 SW 8th Street – PCA 274,
Miami, Florida 33199
Webpage Link

Concertmaster Daniel Andai takes to the podium to lead The Miami Symphony Orchestra in An Appalachian Spring! For tickets please call (305) 275-5666 or visit www.themiso.org.

2nd Annual Voices of Leadership VIP Reception and Miami Launch of Broadway Musical Fela 3/18/13

2nd Annual “Voices of Leadership” VIP Reception and Miami Launch of Broadway Musical Fela!
Monday, 03/18/2013, 07:00 am – 11:00 pm
251Briza on the Bay
1717 N. Bayshore Drive, Ste 115,
Miami, Florida 33132
Buy Tickets Link

National Voices for Equality, Education, and Enlightenment (NVEEE), a South Florida based anti-bullying organization, will welcome back celebrities, elected officials, young artists, and educators, to their 2nd Annual “Voices of Leadership” Reception and Miami Launch Party for Tony Award-Winning Musical FELA!

This reception will be held Monday, March 18, 2013 from 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. at Briza on the Bay, 1717 N. Bayshore Drive Miami, FL 32132. Tickets are $30 for General Admission and $50 for VIP Admission. To purchase tickets visit http://tinyurl.com/a747olu. All proceeds from this event will help support NVEEE’s mission to prevent bullying, violence and suicide among youth families and communities through direct service, mentoring and prevention education.

Spokesperson Michelle Williams, along with cast members of Fela! will attend NVEEE’s Reception and the Miami Launch of the Broadway Musical. “Fela is delighted to be affiliated with NVEEE. Fela is about having each others back, self esteem and the fight for human dignity. Fela’s struggle and the struggle of the children who NVEEE serves have much in common – believe in yourself, stand up for who you are, have no fear, and you can change the world. That is why the musical Fela! exists and what NVEEE teaches everyday,” said Lead Producer Stephen Hendel.

The event will include a Live Auction hosted by Miami philanthropist Kimberly Bacardi and Erin Milchman, with items including a $500 gift certificate to Allure Spa, and an autographed guitar by CREED, donated by Jaclyn Stapp and her husband Scott Stapp, lead singer of the multi-platinum rock band, CREED, with music by Percussionist – Sunny Singh, Saxophonist – Leo Casino and DJ Maximus 3000.

“The highlight of the event will be the awards ceremony honoring individuals who use their voices to speak out against bullying as UPstanders instead of BYstanders” said Jowharah Sanders, Founder of NVEEE. “I don’t think there will be a dry eye in the room after they hear original music from Verona Rose, CJ Fam, Sivan Ben-David and Maggie Baugh, who are four students that volunteer as NVEEE Peace Ambassadors and who are overcoming bullying through music.” Other student Peace Ambassadors who have combined volunteered over 5,000 hours within the past 3 years include Ruth Sanders, Jacob Carpenter, Jamia Barber and Megan Braun. These four students will receive Community Service Awards, presented by Hollywood Actor Vincent De Paul, and they will also receive handmade designer jewelry donated by a returning sponsor, Loud Chic!

A very special thank you to Freedom Concierge Services for producing the event, to Briza on the Bay for donating this upscale event space, and to the restaurant vendors who are sponsoring the catering and desserts including: Chef Jackie Salas, Divino Ceviche (Peruvian Cuisine), Fusion (Latin Cuisine), Tira D. Toss (Peruvian and Japanese Cuisine), and Sweet and Tipsy Cupcakes. Thank you to our sponsors: Influential Lifestyle Media Group, Maximus 3000, Printhouse USA, Loud Chic, Miami Events Group, Little Black Dress Vodka, Zeta Entertainment, Brugal Rum, Cutty Sark Whisky, Kim’s Good Karma Group, Allure Rejuvenation and Anti-Aging Spa, Cafe Mocha, LV Productions, Pettus & Dawkins Financial Group, Alwayz Therro, ORS-Formerly Organic Root Stimulator.

About NVEEE
NVEEE is a community-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in October 2009. Our mission is to prevent bullying, violence and suicide among youth families and communities through direct service, mentoring and prevention education. We are a diverse team of professional educators, business leaders, parents and students who took our concerns about student safety and well-being and put our passion into action-moving from bystanders to community leaders. NVEEE has reached nearly 10,000 teachers, students, parents, and community leaders through our Mentoring Program, Peace Ambassador Program, After School Program, and our signature Not On My Watch School-wide Bullying Prevention Programs.

About FELA! on Broadway
Fela! is an inspiring rhythmic tale of Fela Kuti, who created Afrobeat – a melting of jazz, funk and African rhythm and harmonies. The show is electrifying audiences with its passionate sounds and soulful rhythms. While celebrating the life and struggles of Fela Kuti, Fela! showcases some of the most exhilarating sounds and musical blends that are uniquely Fela Kuti. Having won three Tony Awards, Fela! takes its audience on a exciting and vital experience through Kuti’s life as an artist and human rights activist.

Miss Miami Lakes USA Pageant 3/24/13

Miss Miami Lakes USA Pageant
Sunday, 03/24/2013, 05:00 pm – 07:00 pm
web-coverDon Shula’s Hotel
6842 Main St,
miami, Florida 33014
Webpage Link

The annual Miss Miami Lakes USA Pageant will be held March 24, 2013 at 5 PM at the Don Shula’s Hotel main ballroom in Miami Lakes. All Florida residents are welcome to inquire more info about becoming a contestant or purchase a ticket to come see our amazing show.

We are looking for elegant young ladies aged 14 to 26 years old who are well spoken, have great style, and want to make a difference in their community. We will have both a Teen and Miss division. Winners of the crown will receive the title and prizes, but also they will have a chance to compete live on television on local ABC for the titles of Miss Florida USA and Miss Florida Teen USA. Teen contestants have a chance to win 40 thousand dollar scholarship.

Contestants in our pageant will be judged in Interview, Fitness Swimwear, and Formal Evening Wear. There is no talent portion and no private interview, but we are looking for up and coming role models who have great communication skills. For potential contestants new to pageantry, we will a hold a workshop the week before the pageant to go over all necessary details in preparation of the pageant. The delegates are responsible for a solid color bikini and long formal gown of their choice.

We will also be awarding a Miss Photogenic, Miss Amity, and Miss People’s Choice.

My Miss Miami Lakes USA pageant will be held March 24, 2013 at the Don Shula’s Hotel in Main Street.
http://www.donshulahotel.com/

Free Social Media Boot Camp 3/23/13

Free Social Media Boot Camp
Saturday, 03/23/2013, 09:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fado Irish pub
900 South Miami Blvd., Suite 200,
Miami, Florida 33130
Webpage Link

Maybe it’s the luck of the Irish or March Madness, whatever it is, we are so excited to offer a FREE boot camp at Fado Irish Pub and Restaurant on March 23, 2013!

In just a few short hours, this information-packed seminar will review the essential strategies and best practices a business or organization should understand to successfully get started with social media marketing. The seminar will cover:

– What Social Media marketing really is and why it’s important

– Various social media networks and tools, how they interact, ways to leverage their strengths and how to evaluate them for best use for your business or organization

– How other businesses are using these low-cost tools to gain visibility, develop relationships and drive sales and engagement

– How to incorporate social media marketing into your business life without losing productivity

Participants will have plenty of time to ask questions, share experiences so bring lots of business cards to network.

Also, stay and have lunch afterwards. A special lunch will be available for purchase for all attendees.

Leave with real world insights and knowledge that you can put to work immediately, to help your business and organization succeed!

You MUST register to attend. Space is limited.

Please use this link to register:

https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e73s4fj097a656f6&oseq&c&ch

Thoroughly Modern Millie the Musical 3/17/13

Thoroughly Modern Millie the Musical
Friday, 03/08/2013, 08:00 pm – 10:30 pm
The-Roxy-Theatre-Group-Thoroughly-Modern-MillieThe Roxy Theatre Group
1645 SW 107 Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33165
Webpage Link

DADE COUNTY STUDENTS DAZZLE IN A MODERN 1920s MUSICAL ADVENTURE

MIAMI, FL, The Roxy Theatre Group (RTG) a non-profit youth arts program is proud to present Thoroughly Modern Millie. Adapted from the film of the same name (starring Julie Andrews as the titular heroine), this show features a cast and orchestra comprised of 60 students, ages 13-22, and representing over 30 schools and colleges.

Set in Manhattan circa 1922, Millie is the story of a small-town girl who sets out to chase her larger than life dreams. In her efforts to be the most modern of women, she comes across a slew of eccentric, yet lovable, characters. As she makes her way through New York City, Millie must decide if the prospect of an emerald-clad life is indeed more valuable than a green-glass love. The Roxy Theatre Group’s young ensemble and orchestra bring forth a musical extravaganza, complete with high-speed tap choreography that will have you saying Gimme, Gimme more! The music and lyrics for Millie are by Jeanine Tesori and Dick Scanlan, and the book written by Dick Scanlan and Richard Morris.

“I feel that Millie’s story is one that not just I, but all people, can really relate to; anyone that’s ever felt the need to go after their dreams. I am beyond excited to bring her to life and share the stage with an amazing cast and crew!” said Veronica Diaz, 21, playing the role of Millie Dillmount. Diaz is a senior at the University of Miami, where she is currently attaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She began her studies in dance with The Roxy Theatre Group ten years ago, and along the way found her voice and love of theatre as well.

March 8, 2013-March 17, 2013. Fridays & Saturdays, 8:00p.m. Sundays, 3:00p.m. General Admission: $20.00. Student Prices: Fridays and Sundays, $10.00; Saturdays, $15.00. There will be a cocktail reception and after-show party on Saturday, March 9, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. & tickets for this gala are $50.00. All proceeds to benefit The Roxy Theatre Group’s Student Scholarship Fund. For tickets or more information, please call 305-226-0030, or visit www.RoxyPAC.com. The Roxy Theatre Group (RTG), a non-profit organization, offers classes in drama, voice, and dance to children ages 3-17, with year-round programs, including two after school care programs and a performing arts summer camp.

Latin Taste Fest 6/1/13

Latin Taste Fest
Saturday, 06/01/2013, 04:00 pm – 10:00 pm
LTF-Final-Flyer1Hilton Miami Airport
5101 Blue Lagoon Drive,
Miami, Florida 33126
Webpage Link

Latin Taste Fest is a food, wine and spirits extravaganza bringing together world palates to an international Latin feast. Celebrating the creativity of Latin cuisine, wines and spirits, the event attracts participants and attendees from different parts of the world while highlighting local and international restaurants and the talents of a celebrity chef and local chefs.

Latin Taste Fest is coming to South Florida on Saturday June 1st, 2013

Non-for Profit: Feeding South Florida, is the exclusive
Charity Partner of Latin Taste Fest. Food overages and a
portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated
to Feeding South Florida. 

Tickets go on sale April 1, 2013

This is a 21+ event, must show proper identification to enter

10th Anniversary International Women’s Day 3/8/13

10th Anniversary International Women’s Day
worldtradeFriday, March 8, 11:30 a.m.
World Trade Center Miami
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
711 NW 72nd Ave.
Miami 33126

The luncheon is $50 per person and $500 per table.
RSVP ideally by March 1. Email info@worldtrade.org  or call 305-871-7910.

Celebrate women in South Florida who have made a difference in international business and in the community.

World Trade Center Miami (www.worldtrade.org ) celebrates International Women’s Day, Friday, March 8, by honoring four women for their outstanding accomplishments in international business and contributions to South Florida at a luncheon at the DoubleTree by Hilton.

2013 Honorees
â–ª    Jennifer Carroll, Lt. Governor, State of Florida
â–ª    Conchita Muñoz, Founder, Director & CEO ACC10, Inc. Government of
     Catalonia
â–ª    Romaine Seguin, President, UPS Americas Region
â–ª    Rebeca Sosa, Chairwoman, Miami-Dade County Board of County
     Commissioners
 
Speaker & Awardee: Jennifer Carroll, Lt. Governor, State of Florida 
 
The idea of an International Women’s Day first arose at the turn of the century, when in 1909, the first National Women’s Day was observed in the United States. By 1910, 100 women from 17 countries, who had gathered in Copenhagen, unanimously approved a proposal to establish an annual Women’s Day to honor the women’s rights movement and to support universal suffrage for women.

International Women’s Day (www.internationalwomensday.com) has assumed a global dimension for women in developed and developing countries and has been celebrated by the United Nations (UN) since 1975. The UN’s annual commemoration serves to focus attention on the rights of women around the world, and highlights women’s issues globally and focuses on their achievements.

In 2004, the World Trade Center Miami decided to sponsor this event annually to recognize women who have inspired others to make major achievements in international business. More than 400 international executives attend the event each year.

Sponsors: Association of Floral Importers of Florida; Boeing; Consulate General of Canada; Enterprise Florida; Greater Miami Convention and Visitor’s Bureau; Miami International Airport; PortMiami; Seaboard Marine; SeaFreight; TYLIN International/HJ Ross; UPS; and Shake A Leg. 

Second Annual Miami Film Month March 2013

MiamiFilmMonth2013Second Annual Miami Film Month
March 1 – 31, 2013

Internationally Renowned for its Spectacular Film Festivals, Art Cinemas and Success as a Film Destination, Greater Miami and the Beaches Invites You to Celebrate its Second Annual Miami Film Month

From highly anticipated Hollywood box office blockbusters to international indies, Greater Miami and the Beaches continues to play a starring  role in films on the silver and small screens.  To celebrate, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) will host its second annual Miami Film Month, March 1 – 31, 2013.

Greater Miami and the Beaches is rolling out the red carpet for its residents and visitors as Miami Film Month offers March moviegoers significant discounts with ticket prices as low as $6 (up to 47 percent savings) at participating venues.  Consumers will want to keep their ticket stubs as the GMCVB is giving away four Grand Prize one-year memberships to participating art cinemas. To enter for a chance to win, consumers take pictures of three movie ticket stubs from different participating theaters and submit their photos via the Visit Miami Facebook page/tab.  In addition to the membership giveaways (one each week during the promotion), 20 runner-up winners will receive $25 gift cards.

For those who prefer to schmooze, there are festival parties to make an appearance at including the Artopia at the Coral Gables Museum on February 28, the Miami International Film Festival Pyrat Awards on March 9 at the Freedom Tower and the newly established FIU Media Arts Festival set to take place on March 26, 2013 at 420 Lincoln Road in Miami Beach.

“It’s anything but quiet on the set here in Greater Miami and the Beaches. We have worked with more big Hollywood studios, art directors and independent film producers this year than ever before and the demand continues to grow,” said William D. Talbert III, CDME, president and CEO of the GMCVB. “It’s no wonder more productions and film festivals from around the globe are looking to bring their shoots and screening events here. Our sandy white beaches and stunning cityscape combined with our destination’s accommodations and amenities make for an ideal location.”

While March is officially Miami Film Month, the festivities happen year-round. Five new festivals have joined the credits this year making Miami and the Beaches home to 18 film festivals for residents and consumers to enjoy; the list of festivals participating in Miami Film Month follows.
·        American Black Film Festival
·        Borscht Film Festival
·        Brazilian Film Festival of Miami
·        CAJE Miami Jewish Film Festival
·        DocMiami International Film Festival
·        European Film Festival
·        FIU Media Arts Festival
·        France Cinema Floride
·        Italian Film Festival
·        Miami & the Beaches Environmental Film Festival
·        Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival
·        Miami International Film Festival
·        Miami Israel Film Festival
·        Miami Short Film Festival
·        Miami Wildlife Conservation Film Festival
·        Optic Nerve Film Festival
·        Sicilian Film Festival
·        Women’s International Film Festival

Art Cinemas participating again this year include:
·        Bill Cosford Cinema
·        Coral Gables Cinema
·        Miami Beach Cinematheque
·        O Cinema  Wynwood
·        O Cinema Miami Shores
·        Tower Theater

For more information regarding Miami Film Month festivities and participants, please visit its dedicated website at www.MiamiFilmMonth.com. To enter the online contest, visit GMCVB’s Facebook page – Visit Miami.

Miami Film Month is part of the Temptations programs developed by the GMCVB to allow all to enjoy the best that Miami and The Beaches  has to offer throughout the year at attractive prices. Miami Film Month is part of the successful playbook including Miami Spa Month, Miami Spice Restaurant Month, Miami Museum Month, Miami Attractions Month, Miami Romance Month, Shop Miami Month, Miami Golf Month and Miami Live Music Month.  For more information on the Temptations programs please visit www.MiamiTemptations.com .

Miami Writers Institute 5/8/13-5/11/13

Miami Writers Institute
Wednesday, 05/08/2013, 08:00 am –
wi2010-1114_tcm6-47701Miami Dade College-Wolfson
6300 NW 7th Ave,
Miami, Florida 33150
Webpage Link

Four days of intensive workshops on fiction, nonfiction, poetry, publishing, and more! All of them taught by respected visiting authors and agents in the heart of downtown Miami at the Wolfson Campus of Miami Dade College.

Quality workshops? Of course, but the Writers Institute is so much more:

• Publishing Seminars – How to Have the Ideal Publishing Experience by Being the Ideal Author with David Hale Smith; Q&A Editorial: El mercado editorial y tú con Teresa Mlawer (IN SPANISH)

• Manuscript Consultations – Get feedback on your manuscript in one-on-one sessions with the Kim Perel or David Hale Smith. Space is limited. For the first time, the Writers Institute is offering manuscript consultations for writers working in Spanish. For more information about consultations with Teresa Mlawer, click here.

• Lunchtime Reads – Each day, gather for lunch and hear Writers Institute faculty read from their work.

• Pitch-o-Rama 2013! – On Saturday, May 5, practice the art of the one-minute pitch before a panel of industry pros. Get feedback on your book idea and free advice.

2013 Workshops:

• Three-Day Workshops:

Building the Novel with Mat Johnson

Emily and Walt, Etc. with Campbell McGrath

• Four-Day Workshops:

Writing Fiction and Nonfiction: The Truth About Structure with Jacquelyn Mitchard

Writing Memoir with Rosecrans Baldwin

• Two-Day Publishing Seminars:

How to Have the Ideal Publishing Experience by Being the Ideal Author with David Hale Smith

Q&A Editorial: El mercado editorial y tú con Teresa Mlawer (IN SPANISH)

For more information visit our website at:

http://www.flcenterlitarts.com/site/programs/writing/writers-institute.html

BRIO celebrates National Ravioli Day with half-priced ravioli 3/19/13

BRIO celebrates National Ravioli Day with half-priced ravioli
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
BRIO at The Falls in Miami
8888 SW 136 Street
Miami, FL 33176

Reservations are highly suggested and can be made by calling a local BRIO Tuscan Grille.  For more information including locations, please visit www.BrioItalian.com. The National Ravioli Day celebration excludes Tuscan Tasters and large pans.

In honor of National Ravioli Day, BRIO Tuscan Grille (BRIO) locations in South Florida will offer ravioli dishes at half price on Tuesday, March 19, 2013.
 
BRIO locations in South Florida are at The Falls in Miami, The Village at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach, The Shops at Pembroke Gardens in Pembroke Pines, The Shops at Boca Center in Boca Raton, CityPlace in West Palm Beach, and The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens. BRIO is a BRAVO | BRIO Restaurant Group (Nasdaq: BBRG) concept.
 
Guests are invited to celebrate National Ravioli Day at BRIO on March 19 by enjoying classic BRIO dishes along with special offerings. “The National Ravioli Day celebration is an exciting way to showcase some of our classics and create special menu selections for our guests,” said Phil Yandolino, founding chef of BRAVO | BRIO Restaurant Group.
 
Ravioli Caprese, Romano crusted ravioli topped with tomatoes, fresh Mozzarella and cilantro pesto drizzle, is an appetizer offered all day for $5.25. A glass of the Sartori Family Reserve Pinot Grigio (Veneto, Italy) for $7.75 is the perfect complement to this delicious appetizer.
 
Ravioli Alla Vodka, offered all day for $7.75, is Ricotta-filled cheese ravioli with pancetta, garlic, basil and a rich tomato cream sauce.
 
Ravioli Di Bello is a scrumptious Portobello ravioli with Cremini mushrooms, tomatoes, Parmigiano-Reggiano and fresh thyme in a champagne brown butter sauce. BRIO is offering the lunch portion for $5.97, and the dinner portion for $7.72. This dish pairs nicely with a glass of Porta Palo Merlot (Sicily, Italy) for $6.75. Porta Palo, made exclusively for BRIO, perfectly balances the heartiness of the mushrooms.
 
Cheese Ravioli Al Forno, offered all day for $6.75, is Ricotta-filled ravioli with housemade tomato and Alfredo sauces, striped with basil pine nut pesto.

Speaking Sustainably Film and Lecture Series at the Deering Estate at Cutler 2/27/13

98Speaking Sustainably Film and Lecture Series at the Deering Estate at Cutler
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Deering Estate at Cutler
16701 SW 72 Ave.
Miami FL 33157
More Info

The End of the Line screening and discussion
The critically acclaimed documentary, The End of the Line, reveals the impact of overfishing on the world’s oceans. It examines the effects of the global love affair with fish as food and the implications of a future with no fish that could bring mass starvation. The End of the Line follows investigative reporter Charles Clover across the Straits of Gibraltar to the coasts of Senegal and Alaska to the Tokyo fish market – featuring top scientists, indigenous fishermen and fisheries enforcement officials

Fashion Designers Expo AIDS Awareness 4/20/13

Fashion Designers Expo AIDS Awareness
Sunday, 04/20/2013, 04:00 pm –
Info-FlierTBA
0100 TBA SOON,
MIAMI, Florida 33169
Webpage Link

Fashion Designers Expo (FDE) and the Miami-Dade County Health Department have come together to impact our community during the FDE Shows scheduled for April 18th – 20th to spread word about the AIDS epidemic that has taken over South Florida.

Let’s Get Lucky Her City Night Miami 3/7/13

Let’s Get Lucky Her City Night Miami
Thursday, 03/07/2013, 06:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Lets-Get-Lucky-5Cafeina Wynwood Lounge
297 NW 23rd Street,
Miami, Florida 33127
Webpage Link

Her City Card, the club for women who love to shop, play, network and discover is pleased to invite South Florida ladies to “Let’s Get Lucky! Her City Night Miami.” Powered by parent company InterviewHer.com, the social event is slated for Thursday March 7th from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Cafeina Wynwood Lounge (297 NW 23rd Street Miami, FL 33127).

Guests can expect to enjoy a night of shopping and networking with “Lucky Her” cocktails and bites. Shopping deals will be available at up to 70% off, along with complimentary beauty treatments, prize giveaways and loaded swag bags for VIP ticket holders. In addition, the exclusive “Get Lucky” session, by guest speaker Nikki Novo, will help guests turn their dreams into a reality whether it is revamping their personal lives or careers. A personal-development writer and self-love preacher, Nikki is the creator of The Charmed Life School and The Love Club with Nikki Novo, is co-founder of professional development school called Working Girls Workshop and is author of the popular self-help/love blog “The Art of You & Me.”

Attendees can look forward to:

• Access to “Get Lucky,” a session by Nikki Novo
• Exclusive sales of 40% OFF and up
• Complimentary “Lucky Her” cocktails and bruschetta by Cafeina 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
• Specialty drinks & bites menu all night long
• Complimentary beauty treatments

A portion of the event proceeds will go to FINCA.org, a microfinance organization that helps fund women-owned start-up businesses in the most impoverished regions of the world.

TICKETS: Purchase tickets and RSVP by visiting: www.HerCityCard.com/March7

General Admission: $12 – pre sale and $20 – at the door
VIP Admission: $20 – pre sale (includes goodie bag) and $30 – at the door (includes goodie bag)
Cardholders: Free VIP Admission (existing cardholders must RSVP) $40 annual membership includes VIP admission at event

All Her City Cardholders must RSVP and present their Her City Card and ID upon entrance. Join the Her City Card Club for $40 at www.HerCityCard.com and enjoy cardholder benefits for one year.

Space is limited. RSVP mandatory.

Aranjuez for Harp! 3/2/13

Aranjuez for Harp!
Saturday, 03/02/2013, 08:00 pm –
Aranjuez-for-Harp-NWC-verticalSouth Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center
10950 SW 211th Street,
Miami, Florida 33189
Webpage Link

Kristi Shade, Principal Harpist with The Chamber Orchestra of New York, returns to South Florida to perform one of the most popular 20th-century concertos ever written, Joaquín Rodrigo’s famous Concierto de Aranjuez (for Harp and Orchestra). Eduardo Marturet conducts The Miami Symphony Orchestra (MISO) in a program that also features Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite and Mendelssohn’s “Italian” Symphony No. 4, Op. 90 in A Major. For tickets please call (305) 275-5666 or visit www.themiso.org.

The Dunwells at Bardot in Miami 3/2/13

The Dunwells at Bardot in Miami March 2
Saturday, 03/02/2013, 10:00 pm –
3.2Bardot
3456 North Miami, Miami, FL, United States, 33127,
3456 North Miami, Florida Miami
More Info Link

Emerging from the pubs and clubs of Leeds, England, their hometown in 2009, The Dunwells are stellar musicians, classic roots songwriters and soaring harmony vocalists who have already made instant but lasting impressions on scores of fans.

Phase II Of Ultimate Miami Girl Competition 2/21/13-3/23/13

Phase II Of Ultimate Miami Girl Competition
Stage 305 located at Magic City Casino
450 NW 37 Avenue
Miami, FL 33125
Tickets to attend the elimination rounds are $40 and are available at www.ultimatemiamigirl.com.

Phase II of Ultimate Miami Girl competition begins – Contestants in Phase II will compete in a series of elimination contests where the 1st place winner of each round will receive $1,000, 2nd place winners will earn $500 and 3rd place winners win $250. 
 
Round 1:                       Thursday, February 21st at 8:00PM
Round 2:                       Friday, February 22nd at 8:00PM
Round 3:                       Thursday, March 7th at 8:00PM
Round 4:                       Friday, March 8th at 8:00PM
Round 5:                       Saturday, March 9th at 8:00PM
Round 6:                       Thursday, March 14th at 8:00PM
Round 7:                       Friday, March 15th at 8:00PM
Round 8:                       Saturday, March 16th at 8:00PM
Semi-Finals:                  Saturday, March 23rd at 8:00PM

The search for the Ultimate Miami Girl is a three-phase competition that will be filmed as a reality TV show.
Multiple contestants from each round will advance to the Semi-Finals held on March 23rd.
The contest culminates in Phase III where 10 finalists will be chosen to live in a house and compete in a series of challenges to prove that they are the Ultimate Miami Girl. Apart from the challenges the contestants will face, the show will feature the participants living the fabulous Miami lifestyle. The winner of this final phase will receive $25,000 along with the title of “The Ultimate Miami Girl.”

The Center for Leadership at Florida International University Leadership Lectures Series 2/27/13

The Center for Leadership at Florida International University Leadership Lectures Series
Tuesday, February 27, 2013, 2:00 pm
Florida International University, MMC Campus
MARC Pavilion
11200 SW 8th Street
Miami, Florida 33199

To attend The Leadership Lectures series with Major General David C. Garza, please register online or visit lead.fiu.edu for further information.

The Center for Leadership at Florida International University is pleased to announce that Major General David C. Garza, Former United States Marine, will be the keynote speaker of their next Leadership Lectures series.  Garza will deliver a public lecture on “Military Leadership Fundamentals To Help You Lead Your Ship,” where he will offer insights from his years in various leadership roles, which have contributed to his very illustrious career. The lecture, which is part of the Center’s The Leadership Lectures series, is free and open to the public.
 
Garza has spent over 38 years in military service as both a USAF enlisted engineer and a Marine Corps Infantry Officer. Over the past 34 years he has served in a variety of staff and command assignments in the Marine Corps, Joint Staffs, and in Coalition Combat Operations in Afghanistan. Throughout his career Garza applied the military leadership fundamentals to build highly efficient organizations from recruiting duty, to command billets and counter insurgency operations, to senior level staffs such as the Inspector General of the Marine Corps. During this time he gained extensive international experience serving in Latin America and the Middle East working with U.S. military services, local communities, government agencies, allied forces, and civilian relief organizations.
 
The Leadership Lectures series, presented by Mercantil Commercebank, features world-class, accomplished and influential leaders with expertise ranging from business and philanthropy to public service and academic research. The main goal of the series is to allow the South Florida community to have access to the expertise, advice and best practices of some the world’s foremost leadership minds.

Winn-Dixie Family Fun Zone Celebrates Family, Food and Fun at Calle Ocho 3/10/13

Winn-Dixie Family Fun Zone Celebrates Family, Food and Fun at Calle Ocho
WD-Kids-Zone-Hula-Hooping-on-Stage1Sunday, 03/10/2013, 11:00 am-05:00 pm
Winn-Dixie Family Fun Zone
SW 25th Avenue and 8th Street at the El Dorado Parking Site
Miami, Florida 33135
Facebook Link

Winn-Dixie joins South Florida in celebrating the excitement of Calle Ocho with an interactive family fun zone at the annual street festival. Event attendees are invited to visit the Winn-Dixie Family Zone for an afternoon of food, family and fun with special appearances by local celebrity Chef Pepin, Kool-Aid’s mascot Kool-Aid Man and the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile, as well as enjoy live entertainment, interactive games, face painting, cupcake decorating, product sampling, giveaways and more.

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s Take Steps Walk Makes Significant Impact in Lives of Those Diagnosed 4/20/13

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s Take Steps Walk Makes Significant Impact in Lives of Those Diagnosed
Saturday, 04/20/2013, 04:00 pm – 08:00 pm
Tropical Park
7900 SW 40 Street,
Miami, Florida 33155
Webpage Link

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America’s annual Take Steps Walk at Tropical Park in Miami will bring together more than 1,200 participants on Saturday, April 20, 2013, to create awareness and raise funds to support the thousands of people suffering from digestive diseases. 
Walk festivities will begin at 4:00 p.m. and will include live entertainment, free food and drinks, and a kid’s zone complete with bounce house fun! Guests will also get a special introduction to the Take Steps Miami Walk’s Honored Hero – Cata Berenblum. Cata, who is 15 years old, was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the young age of 10.
For more information about becoming involved in the Take Steps Miami Walk, or to learn more about the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America, please visit www.cctakesteps.org/Miami or call 561-218-2929. 

Bird Road Art Walk every 3rd Saturday of each month 2/16/13

Bird Road Art Walk-Saturday, Feb 16 (& every 3rd Saturday of each month)
Saturday, 02/16/2013, 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
BRAD-H-Feb-2013-ad_edited-1Bird Road Art District
The Bird Road Art District is conveniently located just off of the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) and Bird Road (SW 40th Street). The majority of the studios are located off of SW 75 Ave & SW 74 Ave.,
Miami, Florida 33155
Facebook Link

Once a month the Bird Road Art Walk blossoms with the creative genius of multiple artists working and exhibiting at the many studios and alternative spaces in the area. Enjoy an evening filled with live demonstrations, glass blowing, sculpture, ceramics, stained glass, drawing, painting, photography, installations, performance art, spoken word, poetry, dance, music and meet the artists who create them. It happens only once each month so don’t miss it.

Ample free parking and a free shuttle service that loops continuously throughout the district stopping at each participating artists’ studio and gallery.

Click here for listing: http://www.thebirdroadartdistrict.com/Bird-Road-Art-Walk.html

About the Bird Road Art Walk:
The Bird Road Art Walk is organized by an alliance of artists founded in 2010. The member-powered organization promotes and funds experiences that bring artists, art enthusiasts and collectors together. Events include the monthly Bird Road Art Walk, which features open studios, alternative spaces and creative businesses.

Web: www.thebirdroadartdistrict.com
fb: Bird Road Art District
twitter:@BirdRoadArts

MANO Fine Art presents Faux Perfection 2/16/13

MANO Fine Art presents Faux Perfection
Saturday, 02/16/2013, 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
MANO Fine Art Project Space
4225 SW 75 Ave (2nd Flr),
Miami, Florida 33155
Facebook Link

MANO Fine Art proudly presents Faux Perfection, featuring the work of guest artist Toa Castellanos and Miami artist, MANO.

Faux Perfection is a multimedia exhibition which explores the concept and consequences of beauty as it is manifested by contemporary media. Castellanos employs the use of collage, drawing, painting, photography and installations both as technique and as a metaphor to bring a poignant focus to displaced values of beauty.

The exhibition, opens on Saturday, February 16 in conjunction with the Bird Road Art Walk and will remain on view through March 10th by appointment.

MANO Fine Art Project Space:
MANO Fine Art Project Space is the working studio of Miami-based artist MANO and an exhibition and project space for art related events. MANO Fine Art participates in the Bird Road Art Walk, held on the third Saturday of each month.

For more information contact 305.467.6819 or visit http://www.manofineart.com/

BunnyPalooza 2013 at Miami Seaquarium 3/29/13-3/31/13

BunnyPalooza 2013 at Miami Seaquarium
Miami Seaquarium BunnyPaloozaFriday, March 29th to Easter Sunday, March 31st
Miami Seaquarium
4400 Rickenbacker Causeway
Miami, FL.

Easter Weekend in Miami gets underway with BunnyPalooza 2013 at Miami Seaquarium, which hops onto the scene with the largest parade in the event’s nearly 15 year history.  Guests will enjoy continuous Easter Egg Hunts throughout the day, and five acres of adrenaline pumping fun with bounce houses, ‘Giant Fun Slide,’ Rock Climbing Wall, plus many prizes and surprises.  A discount offering an $8 off admission to BunnyPalooza is available with a receipt or coupon from Publix Supermarket. 
 
“Easter weekend is a big deal at Miami Seaquarium,” commented Andrew Hertz, General Manager at Miami Seaquarium.  “BunnyPalooza 2013 is much more than a traditional egg hunt, it offers families 3 days of fun with acres of shows, activities and even a parade!”
 
The Easter Parade will start daily at 12:30 p.m. complete with floats, bands, strolling performers, costumed characters and of course the Easter Bunny.  During the festivities, bunny hoppers should be on the lookout for a Golden Egg, which will be hidden in one goodie bag at BunnyPalooza egg hunts.  The Golden Egg will give one lucky child and up to three other family members or friends, lifetime admission to Miami Seaquarium. 
For more information visit www.miamiseaquarium.com

Jefferson Starship & The Guess Who Perform Live at Magic City Casino 2/23/13

Jefferson Starship & The Guess Who Perform Live at Magic City Casino
Saturday, February 23 at 8pm
Magic City Casino
450 NW 37 Avenue
Miami
Tickets are available starting at $20 and can be purchased online at www.magiccitycasino.com  or by calling 305-460-6579.
free parking with Valet parking available as well.

Magic City Casino prepares for an encore performance of iconic 70’s rock bands Jefferson Starship and The Guess Who. Attendees can look forward to an evening of legendary rock hits.
 
“We’re thrilled to host Jefferson Starship and The Guess Who! Fans will be in the presence of rock greatness with these talented performers,” said Scott Savin, Chief Operating Officer of Magic City Casino. “The audience can expect an electrifying show with classics including ‘White Rabbit’ and ‘American Woman.’” 
 
Jefferson Starship, originally known as Jefferson Airplane, is one of the biggest rock groups in America from the 1960’s. Jefferson Airplane, founded by Paul Kantner and Marty Balin in 1974, is best known for hits such as “Jane,” “White Rabbit” and “Count On Me.” Kantner, Balin and Jefferson Airplane were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1996. The album, Winds of Change, sported two Top 40 hits, “Be My Lady” and the title song. The album reached gold-record status.
 
The Guess Who, a Canadian rock band, produced a slew of classic rock hits in the late 1960’s and 1970’s including “These Eyes,”  “American Woman” and “Clap for the Wolfman.”  Their album, American Woman, peaked at the ninth spot on the Billboard Hot 200 list.

The Miami-Dade County Youth Fair and Exposition 3/14/13-3/31/13

The Miami-Dade County Youth Fair & Exposition
youthfairMarch 14-31, 2013
The Youth Fair
Coral Way (SW 24th St.) at 112th Ave.
www.fairexpo.com 

Gates open on weekdays at 3 p.m., Saturdays & Sundays at 12 p.m. and at 12 p.m. during Spring Break, which takes place March 22 – 29, 2013.

General admission $10 and FREE admission for children 5 years and younger. Admission for active duty and retired military personnel $5 during weekdays (with military ID).

Parking is always FREE! Preferred parking is available for $15 per vehicle. Space is limited.

Now in its 62nd year, The Miami-Dade County Youth Fair & Exposition is offering fairgoers more deals and ways to save than ever, making it even more accessible to everyone in the South Florida.

Free entertainment is included with the price of admission and features:
·         The Shangri-LA Chinese Acrobats in the E. Darwin Fuchs Pavilion
·         The Zuzu African Acrobats at the Main Street Stage
·         Royal Hanneford Circus with 5 new thrilling acts
·         Show-Me Safari Pig Races
·         Petting Zoo
·         Strolling entertainment including: The House of Flying Cards street magicians, Rainbow Circus performers and Tadpole & Katie the Clowns.
·         Also for a limited schedule the NEW Jump, The Ultimate Dog Show (March 19-22 & March 25-28).
 
Special events and shows include:
 
Fridays Rock @ The Fair Presents:
·         Friday, March 15th – Colombian teen pop artist Matt Hunter
·         Friday, March 22nd – Dove Award-winning Christian band Newsboys ‘God’s Not Dead Tour’, with special guests Building 429 & All Things New
·         Friday, March 29th – American pop punk band We Are The In Crowd
 
Saturdays LIVE @ The Fair Presents:
·         Saturday, March 16th – Puerto Rican BMI & Billboard Reggaeton artist Gocho
·         Saturday, March 23rd – DJ Irie & MMA Matches
·         Saturday, March 30th – FCW wrestling with special WWE guest appearances.
 
VIP Tickets for the Fridays Rock and Saturdays LIVE Shows called the Ultimate LIVE! Experience packages are $49.99 and include:
·         Meet & Greet and digital photo with artist following the concert (find your photo at facebook.com/miamidadefair)
·         VIP seat in the Ultimate LIVE! seating area
·         Admission ticket to the Youth Fair
·         16 ride coupons
·         Ultimate LIVE! Experience lanyard
·         Quantities are limited
 
Upgrade to the VIP Ultimate LIVE! Experience PLUS for $64.99. The package includes all the perks of the Ultimate LIVE! Experience package PLUS the Midway Express Access, which gets you on the rides faster. Quantities are limited.
 
SunDay FunDays A-LIVE @ The Fair Presents:
·         Sunday, March 17th – Yo Gabba Gabba Meet & Greet
·         Sunday, March 24th – Ron Magill & The Zoo Characters 
·         Sunday, March 31st- The NEW Disney’s Annual Pass Interactive Experience & Billboards #1 kids artist Kidz Bop LIVE in concert
·         Plus other special family events from 12-5 p.m. on all three Sundays of the Youth Fair.
 
The Youth Fair wants to make it easy for everyone of all ages to come and experience everything it has to offer by creating amazing deals, including:
 
Opening Day Offers (March 14, 2013)       
·         50% off admission ($5 admission for adults) all day, no coupon necessary.
·         Free admission with the purchase of an advance ticket.
·         Free School Spirit Uniform Day (FREE Admission on Opening Day only for students wearing their uniform and presenting coupon. School ID may be required for high school Students.)
·         FREE for active duty or retired U.S. military personnel and immediate family with military ID (up to 4 guests)
·         FREE Seniors Day (62 + with ID)
 
$5 BEFORE 5 P.M. OFFERS
·         $5 admission & $5 Fair Foods & Games Monday – Friday BEFORE FIVE (5 p.m.) at The Youth Fair. 
·         Coupons are available at participating Pollo Tropical locations and online. Visit www.fairexpo.com and Sedano’s supermarkets for ways to save.
 
Seniors Day – Thursday, March 21st – FREE admission for Seniors (62+ with ID)
 
This year’s Youth Fair features 100 thrilling rides, including the NEW Speed, Marc 3 and Air Raid, as well as those in KiddieLand and KiddleLand Too! Areas with a NEW train, 160 food vendors, 130 merchandise shots, 40,000 student and adult exhibits and 50 games.
 
Ride Prices:                                
·         P.O.P (Pay One Price) Unlimited Ride Pass – $25 (Mon. – Fri. only)
·         NEW 10 Rides & Games Coupons – $12
·         NEW 22 Rides & Games Coupons – $25
·         NEW 55 Rides & Games Coupons – $60
·         Single Ride & Games Coupon – $1.25
·         Express Access Pass- $15 (Gets you on all the rides faster!

The Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition, known for generations as The Youth Fair, is a private, not-for- profit organization that has donated well over $10 million in scholarships, awards and cash premiums to Miami-Dade students and is dedicated to supporting education and South Florida agriculture.

Magic City Casino Presents Free Concert by The Spin Doctors and Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Festival 2/16/13

Magic City Casino Presents Free Concert by The Spin Doctors & Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Festival
mcc_logoSaturday, February 16
Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Festival from 5pm to 10pm; Spin Doctors at 9pm
Magic City Casino
450 NW 37 Avenue
Miami, FL 33125

Magic City Casino, Miami’s first casino to offer Las Vegas style slot machines, presents a FREE concert by Grammy nominated Spin Doctors at Secada’s Lounge as part of their 20th anniversary tour of their landmark debut album, Pocket Full of Kryptonite. In addition, the casino will host its free monthly Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Festival with over twenty of South Florida’s most popular food trucks serving a range of gourmet specialties.

The following trucks will be participating at the Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Festival: 2 Jive Turkeys; Boba Station; Che Grill; Cheeseburger Baby; Coldstone Creamery; Crazydilla; Daddy’s Grill; Dim Ssam a Gogo; Don Mofongo; El Rey de las Fritas; Food Junkies; Grill Master Cafe; HipPOPs Handcrafted Gelato Bars; Killer Pasta; Marlie’s Delights; Mobile Culinary Kitchens; Sugar Yummy Mama; Taco Fresh; Mr. Good Stuff ; Pescados Unidos; Porkalicious; Purple People Eatery

·         Admission to the Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Festival and the Spin Doctors’ concert is free.
·         Spin Doctors’ debut album, Pocket Full of Kryptonite, ranks among the 100 best selling albums of the 1990s, boasting sales of more than five million copies in the U.S. The band’s best known hits include “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong” and “Two Princes.”
·         Food festival attendees will have the opportunity to participate in free games and win prizes.
·         Magic City Casino offers free self parking with valet parking available as well.
 
The Wheelin’ Dealin’ Street Food Fest is presented by Magic City Casino and Burger Beast. For more information, please visit www.magiccitycasino.com  or call 888.56.MAGIC.

Tigertail Presents Tatsuya Nakatani Percussion Solo and Nakatani Gong Orchestra 2/23/13

Tigertail Presents Tatsuya Nakatani Percussion Solo & Nakatani Gong Orchestra
NakataniBlastTopSaturday, February 23, 2013, 8:30 PM
Miami-Dade County Auditorium’s
On-Stage Black-Box
2901 W Flagler St.
Miami, FL
More Info

$25    General Admission

Tatsuya Nakatani, originally from Osaka, Japan, utilizes drumset, bowed gongs, cymbals, singing bowls, metal objects, bells and various sticks and bows to create an intense organic music that defies category or genre.

Photographs from 2nd Annual HeartCamp Unconference at Hotel Urbano Brickell

The 2nd Annual HeartCamp Unconference at Hotel Urbano Brickell on Saturday, February 2, 2013.   HeartCamp is held during American Heart Month they discussed the physical, emotional, spiritual and creative aspects of the heart, with a focus on relationships of all kinds — relationship to the heart, body, self, others and soul. Topics include heart health, nutrition, sex, romance, career, parenting and many more.

 

Winn-Dixie Honors the Legacy of Good Eating with Chef Terryl Jackson as part of Black History Month Celebration 2/9/13

Winn-Dixie Honors the Legacy of Good Eating with Chef Terryl Jackson as part of Black History Month Celebration
Saturday, 02/09/2013, 12:00 pm – 02:00 pm
WD-Chef-Terryl-Jackson-HeadshotWinn-Dixie Store #343
14900 NW 7th Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33168
Webpage Link

During Black History Month, Winn-Dixie proudly celebrates the diversity of its customers and the many flavors of the African-American heritage by hosting a Legacy of Good Eating at select stores. As part of the celebrations, shoppers will enjoy an afternoon of family, food and heritage and will be treated to a live cooking demonstration featuring Gold Medal award winner and nationally recognized Chef Jackson, who will prepare a kickin’ jerk chicken dish. In addition to the delicious food tastings, event attendees can pick up new recipes such as pan seared pork chops, seafood and sausage jambalaya, Hoppin’ John and shrimp, avocado and mango salsa to add to their cook books, as well as enjoy a live radio remote, children’s activities and more. For more information, visit www.winndixie.com/mylegacy.

Knight Arts Challenge Community Roundtables 2/18/13-2/21/13

Knight Arts Challenge Community Roundtables
Knight Arts Challenge7 p.m. Feb. 18
Cinema Paradiso
503 SE 6th St
Fort Lauderdale

7 p.m. Feb. 20
Cannonball
1035 N. Miami Ave., Suite 200
Downtown Miami

7 p.m., Feb. 21
South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center
10950 SW 211 St.
Miami

North Central Dade: Time and date will be announced soon

To find out more and to apply, visit KnightArts.org. Follow us on Facebook and on Twitter via @knightarts and #knightarts.

South Floridians can submit their ideas for the Knight Arts Challenge, a community-wide contest funding cultural projects that engage and enrich Greater Miami. The deadline is March 4.

In each application, reviewers look for two key attributes: artistic excellence and ways the project will engage the public. Anyone can apply. The process is easy, with just three rules:  Projects must be about the arts, take place in or benefit South Florida and match Knight’s funding.

The challenge is a project of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, which has invested more than $86 million over the past six years in both arts institutions and grassroots projects as a way to weave culture into people’s everyday lives. Because of the challenge’s success, Knight Foundation recently renewed the contest through 2015.

“We’re looking for the best ideas – truly Miami ideas – that help bring art to our neighborhoods and make culture ubiquitous in South Florida,” said Dennis Scholl, Knight Foundation’s vice president/arts. “In a truly creative town like ours, we see the challenge as a chance for everybody to participate, to dream, and ultimately see their ideas through to reality.”

Applicants can get questions answered by Knight Foundation at a series of community roundtable meetings, taking place in Downtown Miami, South Dade, North Central Dade and Fort Lauderdale. Times and dates are below.

Started in 2008, the challenge has funded 143 projects for close to $20 million. Past winners have stretched from Delray Beach to Homestead and include:

Weird Miami Bus Tours: Organized by internationally recognized visual artist Naomi Fisher, the artist-led tours take visitors to little-known local haunts.

Hialeah Cultural Center:  The center being launched by Miami Dade College will be a gathering spot for the growing Northwest Dade cultural community;

Demystifying Indian Dance: Choreographer Ranjana Warier will showcase traditional Indian dance through the stories of Western fairy tales, as a way to promote cross cultural understanding.

“South Florida residents continue to surprise us with their ideas, challenge us with their art and ensure that this region is a vibrant place to live,” said Matt Haggman, Miami program director for Knight Foundation. “We’re excited to see what ideas the community comes up with in 2013.”

Free Family Fest Wonderland 3/9/13

Free Family Fest Wonderland
familyfestMarch9Saturday, March 9 @ 11:30 AM
Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
1300 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL 33132

Admission is Free!
Click Here To Reserve First-Access Passes
Or call 305-949-6722 today!
Parking is only $5 in Lot C for attendees!

11:30 a.m. – Outdoor activities on the Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza
(No First-Access Pass required)
2:00 p.m. – Special performance in the Ziff Ballet Opera House
(First-Access Pass required)

Miami City Ballet’s Ballet for Young People program brings the entire family together through dancing and fun! This year, MCB’s international dance stars perform George Balanchine’s delightful The Steadfast Tin Soldier and Sir Frederick Ashton’s enchanting Les Patineurs (The Skating Party).  Loosely based on Hans Christian Andersen’s tale, The Steadfast Tin Soldier recounts a sweet love story between a tin soldier and a pretty paper doll.  The stage then transforms into an intimate skating pond surrounded by a winter-wonderland in Les Patineurs …there is even snow! Audiences of all ages will leave with a smile on their face after experiencing the joy of these charming works.

About Free First-Access Passes: These passes provide patrons with first access to seating in the theater. Seating is "first-come, first-served" for the performance and passes do not guarantee a seat.

Patrons who do not reserve their passes can join the stand-by line beginning at 1 p.m. outside the theater. Passes expire at 1:45 p.m. Patrons in the stand-by line will be let into the theater at 1:45 p.m. if seats are still available in the theater.

Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau Introduces Shop Miami Month February 2013

Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau Introduces Shop Miami Month
February 1 – 28, 2013

From upscale malls and famous department stores to boutiques and specialty shops, browsing and buying is a favorite pastime for residents and visitors of Greater Miami and the Beaches.  This February 1 – 28, shoppers get more bang for their buck as the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) introduces Shop Miami Month, showcasing the destination’s world-renowned marketplaces and retail establishments.
 
How does it work?
·         Reward Cards: For each $500 spent at participating malls, marketplaces and retailers, consumers receive a $20 Shop Miami Month Reward Card (limit one per customer, per day, while supplies last)
·         Prizes: All consumers who earn a Shop Miami Month Reward Card are also entered to win prizes such as an MSC Cruise for two, round trip tickets on American Airlines, complimentary hotel stays, Miami Spa Month vouchers, Miami Spice Restaurant Program vouchers and more! 
 
“Miami and The Beaches continues to be a leading global shopping destination and a full service, year round vacation destination.  We’ve found visitors are staying longer and taking in our retail, cultural, sporting and family attractions as well as our pristine beaches and stunning poolscapes,” says GMCVB President and CEO William D. Talbert, III, CDME. “Considering our record breaking tourism numbers, which contribute to our strong economy and employment, we have a feeling our residents will be happy to get in on the Shop Miami Month rewards, too!”
 
Shop Miami Month is part of the GMCVB’s increasingly popular Temptations program, which takes a thematic focus on the best that Miami has to offer throughout the year at attractive prices. Other programs include Miami Spa Month, Miami Spice Restaurant Program, Miami Attractions Month, Miami Museum Month, Miami Film Month, Miami Golf Month and Miami Live Music Month.  For more information on the Temptations programs please visit www.MiamiTemptations.com.

Marlins Ayudan Week 2013 2/4/13-2/9/13

Marlins Ayudan Week 2013
Monday, February 4 – Saturday, February 9, 2013
www.marlins.com
www.marlinsbeisbol.com

The Miami Marlins will kick off its Marlins Ayudan Week 2013 on Monday, February 4 with local School and Youth League visits taking place throughout the day. Marlins Ayudan Week 2013 will conclude on Saturday, February 9 with the MetroPCS Miami Marlins Winter Warm Up at Marlins Park.

Marlins Ayudan Week 2013 will engage the community through outreach events and signature Marlins Foundation events, including the Annual Marlins Basebowl event at Lucky Strike Lanes on Miami Beach on Thursday, February 7th at 6:30 P.M. and Marlins Trivia Night hosted by The Clevelander at Marlins Park on Friday, February 8th at 6:30 P.M. For more information about Marlins Ayudan and Marlins Foundation, visit www.marlinsfoundation.com .

In addition to the various community endeavors, Marlins players, coaches and executives will be making appearances with South Florida schools, little leagues and corporate partners throughout the week. Ayudan Week will also feature visits from Marlins employees to several Marlins Partner Schools in the Miami area, including check presentations, the raising of Marlins Ayudan flags and the implementation of a Plan of Action at each school to increase student attendance, grades, participation and health and fitness.

The week will conclude on Saturday, February 9 with the MetroPCS Miami Marlins Winter Warm Up at Marlins Park.  The Winter Warm Up is free and open to the public from 10 A.M. to 3 P.M.  Fans can sit in and select their seats for the 2013 season through a variety of season ticket plans, including Full Season, 40-Game Half Season and 21-Game Mini Plans.  Single game tickets will also go on sale for the 2013 season beginning at 10 A.M. at the Marlins Park Ticket Office, and online at marlins.com and marlinsbeisbol.com.  Plus, during the Winter Warm Up, fans can get up to $10 off tickets to Opening Night on April 8th and purchase tickets for the upcoming World Baseball Classic 2nd Round games, to be held at Marlins Park March 12-16.  Fans can also get autographs from Marlins players, walk throughout the ballpark and enjoy games, music, rides and activities for the entire family on the West Plaza.  Winter Warm Up activities will also include the High School Field of Dreams Challenge at 11 A.M., featuring Archbishop McCarthy versus Gulliver Academy.  In addition, all current Full Season, Half Season and 21-Game Mini Plan holders will be invited to exclusive Season Ticket Holder events during the day.  For more information on purchasing a season ticket plan, go to www.marlins.com/seatviews.

Marlins Ayudan Week schedule below. Dates, times, locations and players are subject to change.

Photographs of To Be – an Exploration of Possibilities Photography Exhibition at 387 Studios on 2/2/13

To Be – an Exploration of Possibilities Photography Exhibition at 387 Studios on Saturday, February 2, 2013.  This exhibition was an evening of artistic explorations in the possibilities of life as a human being.

A portion of the proceeds and the donations benefit Creative Clay, whose vision is to make the arts accessible for all. The mission is to provide expressive, educational and vocational opportunities in the arts for people with obstacles to arts access. Creative Clay serves people with developmental, physical and emotional disabilities, as well as people in healthcare settings, children, veterans, and provide outreach art experiences in our community.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

 

Photographs by Anthony Jordon of To Be – an Exploration of Possibilities at 387 Studios on 2/2/13

Photographs taken by Anthony Jordon from To Be – an Exploration of Possibilities Photography Exhibition at 387 Studios on Saturday, February 2, 2013.  This exhibition was an evening of artistic explorations in the possibilities of life as a human being.

A portion of the proceeds and the donations benefit Creative Clay, whose vision is to make the arts accessible for all. The mission is to provide expressive, educational and vocational opportunities in the arts for people with obstacles to arts access. Creative Clay serves people with developmental, physical and emotional disabilities, as well as people in healthcare settings, children, veterans, and provide outreach art experiences in our community.

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

2013 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show and Strictly Sail 2/14/13-2/18/13

The 2013 Miami Boat Show
Thursday, Feb. 14 – Monday, Feb. 18
Miami Beach Convention Center
1901 Convention Center Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33139

Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center – Miami International Boat Show’s in-water display
1635 North Bayshore Drive
Miami, FL 33132

Miamarina at Bayside – location of the largest boat!
400 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL 33132

Thursday, Feb. 14 (Premier Thursday): 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 15 – Sunday, Feb.19: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 18: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center and Miamarina at Bayside open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily

Tickets: Premier Day(Feb. 14): $35
Adults (16 and older): $20
Five-day adult pass (Good all five days of the show): $85
Two-day adult pass (valid Feb. 14-18): $35
Youth 15 and under get in FREE (must be accompanied by an adult)
One ticket good for all sites (including free access to shuttle bus & water taxi)
Take advantage of $5 parking before 9:30am ($10 from 9:30am until closing), and ride the FREE Miami Trolley to the New Yacht & Power Boat Show at Sea Isle Marina or Strictly Sail Miami at Miamarina at Bayside.
Advance tickets can be purchased at MiamiBoatShow.com or StrictlySailMiami.com.

Thousands of Boats Parade Into Miami Beach for the 2013 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show & Strictly Sail

One of the world’s largest and most influential boat shows, the Progressive® Insurance Miami International Boat Show, cruises back to Miami over President’s Day weekend, Feb. 14-18, 2013, offering attendees from around the globe a chance to explore the best of the boating lifestyle, see the industry’s newest brands and models, and shop thousands of boats and marine accessories.

Showcasing more than 3,000 boats and 2,000 companies in three distinct venues, the Miami Boat Show provides something for every boating, fishing, watersports, sailing, diving and travel enthusiast and draws more than 100,000 visitors annually – making it the city’s largest event with an economic impact of nearly one billion dollars per year.

“There’s no better place to enjoy the boating lifestyle than at the Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show. This annual boating tradition has something for everyone, whether you’re a serious shopper looking for sales, a techie in need of the newest marine innovations, or a boating enthusiast who wants to further your nautical know-how or simply enjoy some on-water fun,” says Show Manager Cathy Rick-Joule.

From personal watercraft and performance boats to sport fishers and luxury yachts, visitors have the rare opportunity to board and compare boat brands side-by-side at competitive bargains and find exclusive show specials on the newest marine accessories, gifts and electronics. In addition to the vast selection of boats and marine accessories for sale, the five-day event offers an all-access pass to enjoy life on the water. Each show venue features a variety of interactive activities and education for boaters of all ages and experience levels. Visitors can take the helm during on-water training courses at the show’s two in-water locations, reel in new angling skills at the Big Game Room, and enjoy a free sail ride along Biscayne Bay, plus mingle with boating’s favorite celebrities.

Here’s a roadmap to the 2013 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show:

New Yacht & Power Boat Show at Sea Isle Marina (open 9 am – 6 pm daily)
1635 North Bayshore Drive, Miami
See and shop hundreds of new power boats in the water, including the largest luxury motor yachts at the show.
Serious shoppers? Take ‘test drives’ to experience the latest models for sale.
On-Water Boat Training – Discover Boating puts visitors at the helm with 60-minute and three-hour hands-on skills-building clinics aboard a variety of power boats (presented by the Recreational Powerboating Association). Due to popularity, advance registration is encouraged.

Strictly Sail Miami at Miamarina at Bayside (open 10 am – 6 pm daily)
400 Biscayne Blvd., Miami
See and shop the newest sailboats from boat builders across the globe, plus nearly 200 booths featuring sailing gear, accessories, and hardware from the industries top suppliers, along with the latest charter information.
On-Water Sailboat Training – Discover Boating puts visitors at the helm with two- and three-hour hands-on skills-building clinics aboard a variety of sailboats, including an exclusive presentation, Introduction to Cruising Catamarans (presented by the American Sailing Association). Due to popularity, advance registration is encouraged.
Dozens of sailing seminars for new sailors and experienced skippers
Not ready for the water? Sail away on the Sailing Simulator.
Annual Cruisers’ Party – all sailors are invited!

Miami Beach Convention Center (see times below)
1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach
Board and buy boats for every activity and budget, from personal watercraft to luxury cruisers, marine engines, electronics and accessories, travel destinations, nautical gifts and apparel, services and more.
Fred’s Shed Interactive Learning Center— a must for do-it-yourselfers and boat owners featuring entertaining workshops conducted by “The Boating Guy” and certified marine service technician “Fred, The Outboard Doctor,” a cutaway boat and motor.
10th anniversary of the Big Game Room – celebrate the world of sport fishing at the Big Game Room with daily seminars, dozens of sport fishing accessories and apparel for sale, angling activities and celebrity appearances from National Geographic’s Shark Men Chris Fischer and Brett McBride.

Miami International Film Festival 2013 3/1/13-3/10/13

Miami International Film Festival (MIFF)
March 1 -10, 2013
Gusman Center for the Performing Arts, 174 East Flagler St, Miami, FL 33131
MDC’s Tower Theater, 1508 Southwest 8th St, Miami, FL 33135
Coral Gables Art Cinema, 260 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
O Cinema, 90 Northwest 29th St, Miami, FL 33127
Regal South Beach, 1120 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Miami Beach Cinematheque, 1130 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
www.miamifilmfestival.com

Premiering at this year’s Festival will be 117 feature films and 12 short films from 41 countries, participating in competition and non-competition categories.
 
"If you’re not at the movies every day in the first 10 days of March, you’re in the wrong place," declared MIFF’s Executive Director Jaie Laplante.
 
This is the first year in MIFF’s history that the Festival will open and close with documentary features. The Opening and Closing night films are:
 
Opening Night Film and Ultimat Opening Night Party on Friday, March 1, 2013
·         The Festival will open at the Olympia Theater at Gusman Center for the Performing Arts with RADiUS-TWC’s Twenty Feet from Stardom directed by Morgan Neville.  A spectacular Gala party will follow across the street after the screening at The Historic Alfred I. Dupont Building, sponsored by Ultimat Vodka.
 
Awards Night Film with Pyrat Awards Night Party on Saturday, March 9, 2013
·         The Festival‘s annual awards night gala will culminate with Venus and Serena directed by Maiken Baird & Michelle Major. The Festival’s festivities will wrap up in a grand fashion at the National Historic Landmark Freedom Tower at Miami Dade College, with a Gala party sponsored by Pyrat Rum.
 
Opening Night Films for three of MIFF’s notable competition categories will screen on Saturday, March 2, 2013
·         Knight Ibero-American Competition: Everybody Has a Plan, featuring Oscar-nominated actor Viggo Mortensen.
·         Knight Documentary Competition: world premiere of Viva Cuba Libre: Rap Is War.
·         Lexus Ibero-American Opera Prima Competition: world premiere of The Boy Who Smells Like Fish.
 
As previously announced, the Festival will honor two remarkable directors with Career Achievement Tributes: renowned Swedish writer-director Lasse Hallström (My Life as a Dog, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape) and Spanish producer, writer, and Oscar-winning director Fernando Trueba (Belle Epoque, Chico & Rita). The Festival will screen the directors’ latest works including The Hypnotist (Hyponotisören) by Hallström and The Artist and the Model (El Artista y La Modelo) by Trueba. The Artist and the Model received 13 Goya nominations this year, including Best Picture and Best Director.
 
Other films to be featured in the Festival’s signature CINEDWNTWN Gala series at the Olympia Theater include highly anticipated screenings of Pablo Larrain’s Oscar-nominated NO, the Cannes-winning The Hunt, starring Mads Mikkelsen in the performance of his career thus far, and the world premiere of Eenie Meenie Miney Moe, a Miami-based feature from Jokes Yanes, the editor of MIFF 2011’s hit film Magic City Memoirs.  
 
Miami International Film Festival’s 30th edition is also thrilled to present six competition categories, 15 non-competition categories, as well as an array of special events and screenings. From up-and-coming filmmakers to industry veterans, each category will showcase the filmmakers’ incredible talent.
 
Festival Competition Categories:
 
Knight Ibero-American Competition consists of dramatic works from Latin America, Spain and Portugal, as well as Latino-themed works produced in the United States. The films are competing for $40,000 in prizes courtesy of James L. & John S. Knight Foundation, and a $5,000 Screenwriting Award from the Jordan A. Ressler Foundation. The 10 films competing in this category include:
·         Everybody Has A Plan (Todos tenemos un plan) (Spain/Argentina /Germany, directed by Ana Piterbarg)
·         Cinco De Mayo: The Battle (Mexico, directed by Rafa Lara)
·         Dust (Polvo) (Guatemala, directed by Julio Hernández Cordón)
·         Gone Fishing (Días de pesca) (Argentina, directed by Carlos Sorín)
·         A Gun in Each Hand (Una pistola en cada mano) (Spain, directed by Cesc Gay)
·         Marriage (Matrimonio) (Argentina, directed by Carlos Jaureguialzo)
·         The Moving Creatures (O Que Se Move) (Brazil, directed by Caetano Gotardo)
·         So Much Water (Tanta agua) (Uruguay/Mexico/Netherlands, directed by Ana Guevara & Leticia Jorge)
·         Thesis On A Murder (Tesis sobre un homicidio) (Spain/Argentina, directed by Hernán A. Golfrid)
·         Vinyl Days (Días de vinilo) (Argentina/Colombia, directed by Gabriel Nesci)
 
Knight Documentary Competition consists of engaging and thought-provoking feature-length documentaries created by international filmmakers that examine social issues, diverse cultures, icons and inspiring people. The films are competing for $10,000 courtesy of the Knight Foundation. The 10 films competing in this category include:
·         Viva Cuba Libre: Rap Is War (USA, directed by Jesse Acevedo)
·         Blackfish (USA, directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite)
·         The Crash Reel (USA, directed by Lucy Walker)
·         Cubamerican (USA, directed by Jose Enrique Pardo
·         Far Out Isn’t Far Enough: The Tomi Ungerer Story (USA, directed by Brad Bernstein)
·         Gideon’s Army (USA, directed by Dawn Porter)
·         Sagrada: The Mystery of Creation (Sagrada: El misteri de la creació) (Switzerland, directed by Stefan Haupt)
·         Valentine Road (USA, directed by Marta Cummingham)
·         Which Way Is the Front Line From Here? The Life and Time of Tim Hetherington (USA, directed by Sebastian Junger)
·         Who Is Dayani Cristal? (United Kingdom/Mexico, directed by Marc Silver)

Lexus Ibero-American Opera Prima Competition consists of first-time feature filmmakers from Spain, Portugal and Latin America that are competing for a $5,000 cash prize presented by Lexus. Films competing in this category include:
·         The Boy Who Smells Like Fish (Mexico/Canada, directed by Analeine Cal y Mayor)
·         Edificio Royal (Colombia/Venezuela/Germany, directed by Iván Wild)
·         Good Luck, Sweetheart (Boa Sorte, Meu Amor) (Brazil, directed by Daniel Aragão)
·         Miguel, San Miguel (Chile, directed by Matías Cruz)
·         Molasses (Melaza) (Cuba/France/Panama, directed by Carlos Días Lechuga)
·         No Autumn, No Spring (Sin otoño, sin primavera) (Ecuador/Colombia/France, directed by Iván Mora)
·         Solo (Uruguay/Argentina/Netherlands/France, directed by Guillermo Rocamora)
·         The Swimming Pool (La piscina) (Cuba/Venezuela directed by Carlos Machado Quintela)
·         Villegas (Argentina/Netherlands/France, directed by Gonzalo Tobal)
 
University of Miami Shorts Competition will present the latest in short films from around the globe. The jury selected winner will a receive $2,500 cash prize. Films competing in this category include:
·         9 Meter (Denmark, directed by Anders Walter)
·         Anna and Jerome (Anna et Jérôme) (France, directed by Mélanie Delloye)
·         Ebb & Flow (A Onda Traz, O Vento Leva) (Brazil/Spain, directed by Gabriel Mascaro)
·         Edmond Was A Donkey (Edmond Était Un Âne) (Canada/France, directed by Franck Dion)
·         Eleven: Twelve (USA/Portugal, directed by JC Barros)
·         Lost Country (USA, directed by Heather Burky)
·         Of Other Carnivals (De Outros Carnavais) (Brazil, directed by Paulo Miranda)
·         Palmipedarium (France, directed by Jérémy Clapin)
·         Skunk (Rotkop) (Belgium, directed by Jan Roosens & Raf Roosens)
 
Festival Non-Competition Categories:
CINEDWNTWN GALAS
·         Amor Cronico (USA/Cuba, directed by Jorge Perrugorría)
·         The Artist and the Model (Spain, directed by Fernando Trueba)
·         The Boy Who Smells Like Fish (Canada/ Mexico, directed by Analeine Cal y Mayor)
·         Dark Blood (Netherlands, directed by George Sluizer)
·         Eenie Meenie Miney Moe (USA, directed by Jokes Yanes)
·         The Hunt (Jagten) (Denmark, directed by Thomas Vinterberg)
·         The Hypnotist (Sweden, directed by Lasse Hallström)
·         NO (Chile/USA, directed by Pablo Larraín) *2013 Oscar Nominated for Best Foreign Film
·         RADiUS-TWC’s Twenty Feet from Stardom (USA, directed by Morgan Neville)
·         Venus and Serena (USA, directed by Maiken Baird and Michelle Major)

Cinema 360° presented by VIENDOMOVIES is one of the Festival’s most extensive categories this year with an array of films from around the world.
·         7 Boxes (7 Cajas) (Paraguay, directed by Juan Carlos Maneglia & Tana Schémbori)
·         A Perfect Plan (Un Plan Parfait) (France, directed by Pascal Chaumeil)
·         After Lucia (Después de Lucia) (Mexico, directed by Michel Franco)
·         Capadocia 3 (Mexico/USA, directed by Pedro Pablo Ibarra, Javier Patrón, Moises Urquidi & Carlos Carrera)
·         Comrade Kim Goes Flying (Belgium/United Kingdom/D.P.R of Korea, directed by Anja Daelemans, Nicholas Bonner, & Kim Gwang-hun)
·         Day of The Flowers (United Kingdom, directed by John Roberts)
·         Dead Europe (Australia/United Kingdom, directed by Tony Krawitz)
·         The Deep (Djúpid) (Iceland/Norway, directed by Baltasar Kormákur)
·         Dormant Beauty (Bella Addormentata) (Italy/France directed by Marco Bellocchio)
·         The End (Fin) (Spain, directed by Jorge Torregrossa )
·         Everyday (United Kingdom, directed by Michael Winterbottom)
·         Fill The Void (Lemale Et Ha’Halal) (Israel, directed by Rama Burshtein)
·         The German Friend (El amigo alemán) (Germany/ Argentina, directed by Jeanine Meerapfel)
·         Ghost Graduation (Promoción fantasm) (Spain, directed by Javier Ruiz Caldera)
·         Hand in Hand (France, directed by Valérie Donzelli)
·         Hannah Arendt (Germany/Luxembourg/France, directed by Margareta von Trotta)
·         It Was the Son (E’Stato Mio Figlio) (Italy, directed by Daniele Cipri)
·         Measuring the World (Die Vermessung Der Welt) (Germany, directed by Detlev Buck)
·         Mental (USA/Australia, directed by P.J. Hogan)
·         Nairobi Half Life (Kenya/Germany, directed by Tosh Gitonga)
·         Oh Boy (Germany, directed by Jan Ole Gerster)
·         Paradise: Love (Paradies: Liebe) (Austria/Germany/France, directed by Ulrich Seidl)
·         The Patience Stone (Syngu’e Sabour) (Afghanistan, directed by Atiq Rahimi)
·         Reality (Italy/France, directed by Matteo Garrone)
·         Still Mine (Canada, directed by Michael McGowan)
·         The Trip 2 (El paseo 2) (Colombia, directed by Harold Trompetero)
·         White Elephant (Elefante blanco) (Argentina/Spain, directed by Pablo Trapero)

Spotlight on China
·         Beijing Flickers (You-Zhong)  (China, directed by Zhang Yuan)
·         Full Circle (Fei Yue Lao Ren Yan) (China, directed by Zhang Yang)
·         Romancing in Thin Air (Gao Hai Bazhi Lian II) (China/Hong Kong, directed by Johnnie To)

See Voir Veo CANADA
·         Camion (Canada, directed by Rafaël Ouellet)
·         L’Affaire Dumont (Canada, directed by Daniel Grou)
·         Laurence Anyways (Canada/France, directed by Xavier Dolan)

4 Directors to Watch
·         A World Not Ours (United Kingdom/Lebanon/Denmark, directed by Mahdi Fleifel)
·         Blondie (Sweden, directed by Jesper Ganslandt)
·         The Future (Il Futuro) (Chile/Italy/Germany/ Spain, directed by Alicia Scherson)
·         Three Kids (Twa Timoun) (Belgium/Haiti, directed by Jonas D’Adesky)

Doc-You-Up
·         Amazon Gold (USA, directed by Reuben Aaronson)
·         Bay of all Saints (Da Maré) (USA/Brazil, directed by Annie Eastman)
·         Casting By (USA, directed by Tom Donahue)
·         Liv & Ingmar (Czech Republic/India/Norway, directed by Dheeraj Akolkar)
·         No Place on Earth (USA, United Kingdom, Germany, directed by Janet Tobias)
·         Ping Pong (United Kingdom, directed by Hugh Hartford)

Florida Focus presented by FPL
·         Calloused Hands (USA, directed by Jesse Quiñones)
·         Pincus (USA, directed by David Fenster)
·         Red Wine (Vino Tinto) (USA, directed by Carlos Gutierrez)
·         Tony Tango (USA, directed by Manola Celí)

Lee Brian Schrager’s Culinary Cinema
·         Meat Hooked (USA, directed by Suzanne Wasserman)
·         Oma & Bella (Germany/USA, directed by Alexa Karolinski)
·         Why Did You Leave? (Por Que Vocȇ Partiu?) (Brazil, directed by Eric Belhassem)

Family Day
·         Magic Camp (USA, directed by Judd Ehrlich)
·         The Croods (USA, directed by Kirk De Micco and Chris Sanders)

REEL Music
·         Someone Else’s Bed (USA, directed by Maggy Torres-Rodriguez)
·         Turning (Denmark/USA, directed by Charles Atlas)

America the Beautiful
·         At Any Price (USA, directed by Ramin Bahrani)
·         The Discoverers (USA, directed by Justin Schwarz)
·         The Go Doc Project (USA, directed by Cory James Krueckeberg)
·         The Hot Flashes (USA, directed by Susan Seidelman)

Visions
·         Bob Wilson’s Life and Death of Marina Abramovic (United Kingdom/Spain, directed by Giada Colagrande)
·         The Fifth Season (La Cinquieme Saison) (Belgium/Netherlands/France, directed by Peter Brosens & Jessica Woodworth)
·         Leviathan (France/United Kingdom/USA, directed by Lucien Castain-Taylor & Vérena Paravel)
·         Multiple Visions, The Crazy Machine (Miradas múltiples, la máquina loca) (Mexico/France/Spain, directed by Emilio Maille)
·         Post Tenebras Lux (Mexico/France/Netherlands/Germany, directed by Carlos Reygadas)
·         Rio 2096:A Story of Love and Fury (Uma História de Amor E Fúria) (Brazil, directed by Luiz Bolognesi)
·         Sadourni’s Butterflies (Las mariposas ee Sadourni) (Argentina, directed by Darío Nardi)

From The Vault
·         Au Hasard Balthazar (France/Sweden, directed by Robert Bresson)
·         The Super (El Super) (USA, directed by Leon Ichaso & Orlando Jiménez-Leal)
·         The Yellow Ticket (USA, directed by Victor Janson & Eugen Illés)
·         Zoo (USA, directed by Frederick Wiseman)

Mayhem
·         Animals (Spain, directed by Marçal Forés)
·         Errors of the Human Body (Germany/USA, directed by Eron Sheean)
·         Halley (Mexico, directed by Sebastian Houfmann)
·         Pietá (D.P.R of Korea, directed by Kim Ki-duk)
·         The Midnight Game (USA, directed by Alejandro Calvo)
·         Sanitarium (USA, directed by Bryan Ramirez, Bryan Ortiz & Kerry Valderrama)
·         Would You Rather (USA, directed by David Guy Levy)

Spotlight on FilmMovement: The Festival will be celebrating FilmMovement’s 10th anniversary and honoring their commitment to cinema outside of commercial commitments with three films.
·         Broken (United Kingdom, directed by Rufus Norris)
·         The Deflowering of Eva Van End (De Ontmaagding Van Eva Van End) (Netherlands, directed by Michiel ten Horn)
·         La Sirga (Colombia, directed by William Vega)

Other Notables Highlights During the Festival week:
·         The Festival will host a series of Masterclass Seminars at the Miami Beach Cinematheque, The Standard Spa, and Miami Light Project. The classes include:
 
o   Analyze This: A Critics Power in Today’s Film Culture (March 2, at 3 p.m.)
o   You’re Invited? Now What? (March 3, at 2:30 p.m.)
o   International Symposium on the Chinese Film Industry & Chinese Films  for Mandarin Education (March 7 – March 9, 2013)
o   Do A Shot Miami! #1 Presented by Kodak & Pro8mm (March 9, at 10 a.m.)
o   Conversation with Cristián Jiménez, Director of Bonsái (March 9, at 11 a.m.)
o   Producing in Florida and Beyond (March 9, at 12:30PM)
o   Cocaine Cowboys: The Series (March 9, at 3 p.m.)
o   Do A Shot Miami! #2 Presented by Kodak & Pro8mm (March 10, at 10 a.m.)
 
·         Brady Corbet will host an evening at Nikki Beach, and present a screening of Robert Bresson’s Au Hasard Balthazar on Friday, March 8 at 7:15 p.m. Corbet willdiscuss this acclaimed 1966 masterpiece from one of cinemas most revered filmmakers and discuss its significance.
 
·         The coveted Lexus Audience Award is presented to the film receiving the most votes from audience members. Prior to viewing eligible films, ballads are dispersed to audience members in order to cast their vote for their favorite film.  Last year’s winner of the Lexus Audience Award was Juan of the Dead directed by Alejandro Brugués.
 
·         CinemaSlam is a component of the Festival’s Florida Focus program. The competition, aims to discover, showcase, and celebrate the work of undergraduate and graduate students in Miami’s film schools. College age film students from Florida International University, Miami-Dade College, Miami International University, New World School of the Arts (University of Florida), St. Thomas University, and the University of Miami compete for the right to be named CinemaSlam Champion 2013. The public is invited to judge and vote for their favorite online short between the dates January 4 – 24, 2013. The remaining 50% of the vote is determined by a select group of faculty judges from each participating school. The winning 2-3 films from each school will be judged by MIFF’s esteemed CinemaSlam Jury to determine the overall grand prize winning short CinemaSlam Champion 2013 and Category Awards for (1) Best Comedy (2) Best Drama (3) Best Experimental, Documentary or Animation (4) Best Technical Achievement, (5) Best Actor (6) Best Actress and (7) Best Director.
 
·         Osklen’s Best Dressed at MIFF 2013 Contest: MIFF attendees will have a chance to enter this opening night contest with a chance to win a gift certificate from the upscale boutique, Osklen. To enter, guests just simply need to attend MIFF’s Opening Night Gala Party in their most stylish threads. Three of Miami’s fashion gurus will be scouting the scene for the best male and female outfits. Participants are encouraged to share their look with Instagram and Twitter using #miamiFF.

Notable Programs and Countdown Retrospective Film Prior to the Festival week:
·         Bruce Weber’s Let’s Get Lost screening and Q&A: This Oscar-nominated documentary about jazz trumpeter-singer Chet Baker intercuts footage from the 1950s, when he was part of West Coast Cool, and from his later years. The film takes viewers on a journey through Baker’s life from his young beautiful faced years to his old and detached life with his face a ruin. A series of interviews with his children, ex-wife, friends, associates and lovers add to the rich texture of this fascinating film. Renowned photographer and filmmaker Bruce Weber is scheduled to attend for intro and Q&A on Friday, February 1, 2013, at 7:00 p.m.
 
·         Miami Future Cinema Critics (MFCC) is a new program in celebration of MIFF’s 30th anniversary. The aim of the program is to provide Miami-based film aficionados with a fascinating opportunity to discover new cinema – outside of the roughly 600 films that are commercially released in the U.S. annually, and learn new ways to develop their voice and attract new audiences for their own critical work. Through an application process, a group of 7 Miami writers (between the ages 21 to 30 ) will blog (written, audio or video) about films from a select playlist of 8-10 titles, curated by MIFF’s 2013 programming team. In addition to blogging, the MFCC will designate one film in their playlist as an overall “best film,” based on the Critics’ own criterion of artistic merit. Miami Future Cinema Critics Best Film of 2013 Award will be announced and presented as part of MIFF’s official Awards Night program on Saturday, March 9, 2013, at 7:00 p.m., at the Olympia Theater at the Gusman Center of the Performing Arts.
 
·         Miami Encuentros will for the first time in the program’s history award a cash prize of $10,000 to one winning project as selected by a jury of industry professionals. The prize is sponsored by EGEDA, the Audiovisual Producers’ Rights Management Association from Spain. In addition, Madrid/Barcelona-based International Sales Agency 6 Sales will offer a 2-year representation contract to a winning project, with the ultimate goal of securing worldwide distribution. The objective of the competition category is to help facilitate and support the completion of Latin American and U.S. Hispanic feature film projects in post-production, and propelling them towards their debuts on the international stage.

PhilanthroFest and Catalyst Miami Non-Profit Community Engagement Institute 2/8/13

soulofmiamifeatured
PhilanthroFest and Catalyst Miami Non-Profit Community Engagement Institute
Friday, February 8, 2013, 1:00pm until 7:00pm
PFInst01flyerMiami Science Museum
3280 South Miami Avenue
Miami, Florida 33129
Attendance is FREE
ONLINE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Plenty of free parking onsite

PhilanthroFest is collaborating with Catalyst Miami to host the first in our ongoing series of Non-Profit Community Engagement Institutes on February 8, 2013, at the Miami Science Museum. The focus of these institutes is to provide non-profit organizations of all sizes with both on-line and off-line skills to reach out and connect with residents of their community in order to better promote their mission and enhance their organization.

The institute is an afternoon affair with several workshop sessions. Each session is 45 minutes long. A keynote presentation starts the day and we are closing out with time for networking and socializing.

Networking for Social Cause – Accelerating Engagement
Social Capital for Human Networks

SCHEDULE
1:00 – 1:30 pm Arrival and Registration

1:30 – 2:10 pm Opening remarks by PhilanthroFest, Catalyst, and MiaSci; Keynote address by Dave Lorenzo, Valtimax Consulting

2:15 – 3:00 pm On-line Community Engagement
“Igniting Your Non-Profit’s Social Media Efforts” lead by Alex de Carvalho, Feynlabs

3:05 – 3:50 pm Community Engagement Session I
“Constituent Engagement” lead by Jacob Coker-Dukowitz, Catalyst Miami OR “Asset Based Community Development for Community Engagement” lead by Dacia Steiner, ReServe Miami

3:55 – 4:40 pm Community Engagement Session II
“Strategies for Community Engagement” lead by Dr. Scot Evans, University of Miami OR “Engaging Funders: Improve fundraising results by effectively telling your story” lead by Dr. Catherine Raymond, Raymond Consulting

4:45 – 5:25 pm Engaging Young Professionals Panel
Moderated by Tony Lima; Panelists include Nicole Hess from Women Networking, Cristina Mas from Association of Fundraising Professionals, and Pablo Gonzalez from Miami Habitat for Humanity Young Professionals

5:30 – 6:00 pm Closing remarks by Estrellita Sibila, Esq., PhilanthroFest Executive Director and Principal at Estrellita Sibila, PA

6:00-7:00 Networker for event attendees

Snacks provided by KIND Snacks
Beverages by El Dorado Rum
Special thanks to our venue sponsor Miami Science Museum

For more information on the speakers, please visit: www.philanthrofest.com

With the support of
Catalyst Miami
Miami Dade College
Medina Family Foundation
Livelihood Show

Winn-Dixie Celebrates the Excitement of Calle Ocho with Food, Family and Fun Featuring Chef Pepin 2/23/13

Winn-Dixie invites South Florida shoppers to join us for an afternoon of food, family and fun to kick-off this year’s Calle Ocho festival with mini celebrations throughout February and March at select Miami stores. As part of the celebrations, shoppers will enjoy a special cooking demonstration by local celebrity Chef Pepin. Known for his spontaneous and whimsical approach to cooking, Chef Pepin will prepare easy Kraft Food recipes such as Mesquite Chicken Breasts with Lime-Avocado Salsa, JELL-O Cheesecake and a Strawberry Mint Mojito made with KOOL-AID.

In addition to the cooking demonstrations, event attendees will also enjoy a visit by the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile where they’ll receive exclusive coupons and their very own official wiener whistle, as well as Coca-Cola sampling, giveaways, live entertainment and more.

Additional Event Date/Location:

Sat., Feb. 16, noon – 2 p.m.
Winn-Dixie Store #254
11241 SW 40th Street
Miami, Fla. 33165

Additional Information:
Join in the celebration of Calle Ocho and visit the Winn-Dixie Family Zone located on 25th Avenue and SW 8th Street at Calle Ocho, on Sun., March 10, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for special appearances including Chef Pepin and the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile, live entertainment, face painting, cupcake decorating, product sampling, giveaways and more.

Stay updated on the excitement of Calle Ocho online. Winn-Dixie invites shoppers to join the conversation and become a fan of Winn-Dixie’s Latino Facebook page by ‘liking’ us at www.facebook.com/winndixielatino or follow us on Twitter @winndixie #WDCalleOcho.

Winn-Dixie Celebrates the Excitement of Calle Ocho with Food, Family and Fun Featuring Chef Pepin 2/16/13

Winn-Dixie invites South Florida shoppers to join us for an afternoon of food, family and fun to kick-off this year’s Calle Ocho festival with mini celebrations throughout February and March at select Miami stores. As part of the celebrations, shoppers will enjoy a special cooking demonstration by local celebrity Chef Pepin. Known for his spontaneous and whimsical approach to cooking, Chef Pepin will prepare easy Kraft Food recipes such as Mesquite Chicken Breasts with Lime-Avocado Salsa, JELL-O Cheesecake and a Strawberry Mint Mojito made with KOOL-AID.

In addition to the cooking demonstrations, event attendees will also enjoy a visit by the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile where they’ll receive exclusive coupons and their very own official wiener whistle, as well as Coca-Cola sampling, giveaways, live entertainment and more.

Additional Event Date/Location:

Sat., Feb. 23, noon – 2 p.m.
Winn-Dixie Store #286
948 SW 67th Avenue
Miami, Fla. 33144

Additional Information:
Join in the celebration of Calle Ocho and visit the Winn-Dixie Family Zone located on 25th Avenue and SW 8th Street at Calle Ocho, on Sun., March 10, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for special appearances including Chef Pepin and the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile, live entertainment, face painting, cupcake decorating, product sampling, giveaways and more.

Stay updated on the excitement of Calle Ocho online. Winn-Dixie invites shoppers to join the conversation and become a fan of Winn-Dixie’s Latino Facebook page by ‘liking’ us at www.facebook.com/winndixielatino or follow us on Twitter @winndixie #WDCalleOcho.

Photographs of 7th Annual International Chocolate Festival

by Ari Kane (@Aricurian)

We spent this past lovely winter Saturday, January 25th at the serene Fairchild Botanic Garden for its 7th Annual International Chocolate Festival.  The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a tropical oasis off of Old Cutler Road that sports a beautiful collection of trees, plants and wildlife. The chocolate festival was an event for all ages held over three days. The venue provided chocolate tastings, Whole Foods sponsored chocolate beer tastings, a chocolate themed spa, chocolate plants, food trucks, educational seminars, cooking classes for adults and children. Truly a delight for all things chocolate! In addition to the festival, patrons were granted access to the Garden’s tropical flower garden, spiny forest of Madagascar, Victoria pool, butterfly garden, tropical fruit pavilion, conservatory and many other attractions.  The butterfly garden was mesmerizing to walk through with gorgeous butterflies literally landing on your shoulders and fingers.

We especially enjoyed The Short Chef who gave a comical and inspiring children’s cooking workshop highlighting the child obesity issue plaguing our country. He was hysterical and enchanted both the adults and kids who attended. He served up a healthy chocolate-marinated strawberry salad that was gobbled up by the attendees. The event was packed with smiling faces and kids running around the park on glorious chocolate sugar rushes. The setting was stunning, the free beers superb, the chocolate exquisite and the vibe of the event sweeter than decadent Swiss chocolate. We look forward to more chocolate dipping next year.

Photo Credit: Daniella Veras (@DaniellaVeras & @_DaniMiami)

 

 

Annual Carnaval Miami Cooking Contest Now Accepting Recipe Submissions for Cooking Competition 2/26/13

Annual Carnaval Miami Cooking Contest Now Accepting Recipe Submissions for Cooking Competition
Tuesday, 02/26/2013, 06:00 pm – 07:30 pm
WD-Carnaval-Miami-Cooking-Contest-2013-LogoWinn-Dixie Store 292
1630 West 49th Street ,
Hialeah, Florida 33012
Webpage Link

The Kiwanis of Little Havana, together with Winn-Dixie stores, invite you to participate in the Annual Carnaval Miami Cooking Contest, one of the most popular food competitions in South Florida, presented by Bounty. Culinary aficionados will have the opportunity to showcase their culinary mastery against other food enthusiasts during a semifinal competition with winners receiving the chance to compete for a $1,000 prize in the final competition at this year’s Annual Carnaval on the Mile Festival on Sat., March 2.

All who wish to be considered for the cooking contest should submit a recipe for eight guests that uses a minimum of five Winn-Dixie Brand products, such as Winn-Dixie butter, spices, etc., no later than 5 p.m. on Wed., Feb. 20 to the:

Kiwanis Club of Little Havana
1400 SW First Street,
Miami, Fla. 33135
By email: alafee@carnavalmiami.com
By fax: (305) 644-8693

Contest participants will be selected based on creativity by a panel of judges and notified if they are chosen to participate. The semifinal competition will award cash prizes to the top three winners, as well as a $25 gift card to the remaining participants.

Semifinal cooking competition
Tues., Feb. 26, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Winn-Dixie Store 292
1630 West 49th Street
Hialeah, Fla.

For more information, please visit www.carnavalmiami.com/cookingcontest, www.facebook.com/CarnavalMiami or call (305) 644-8888.

Smirnoff’s Master of the Mix invites you to the taping of Season 3 1/28/13-2/1/13

Smirnoff’s Master of the Mix invites you to the taping of Season 3
Monday, 01/28/2013 through Saturday, 02/02/2013, 05:00 pm –
MOTM3_flier_lineup-BACK2_webIce Palace Studios
1400 North Miami Ave,
Miami , Florida 33136
Facebook Link

Smirnoff’s Master of the Mix is back for a third season and on a new network, VH1.

Season 3 will be the BIGGEST season yet as the competition is on! The pressure is turned up high this time around as the contestants will live together, match wits with celebrities and perform at the hottest parties on TV. The winner will receive a $250,000.00 cash prize and a one-year reign as Master of the Mix for Smirnoff.

Filming is currently taking place in Miami all week long. I want to invite you to join the party as part of the audience or invite you to share this invitation with your hot Miami friends. To attend a live taping, go to www.guestcode.com and enter the RSVP code for the dates on the flyer. Must be 21+ to attend.

P.S Surprise guests will be making appearances all week long, plus complimentary open bar if you attend.*

Monthly Networking Event at Fado Irish Pub and Restaurant 1/30/13

Monthly Networking Event at Fado Irish Pub and Restaurant
Wednesday, 01/30/2013, 06:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Fado_ColorFado Irish Pub and Restaurant
900 S Miami Ave,
Miami, Florida 33130
More Info Link

Don’t forget your New Year resolution – get out there and make some contacts!

$10 (or $15 at the door) gets you in, and entrance to our VIP area where you will enjoy 1 complimentary welcome drink and light bites.

Also, every attendee will enjoy half price drinks and specialty priced food specials (this has been specially negotiated for our group) all night long!

Make sure to bring plenty of business cards for networking, business card Bingo and your chance to win a gift certificate complimentary Happy Hour Parties from Fado Irish Pub and Restaurant!

Please register with link: http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=6fqlzxdab&oeidk=a07e6ypymwda1c98dc2

Photographs from Animate! Miami on 1/20/13

Animate! Miami is a convention dedicated to Anime, Animation and Cosplay at the Miami Airport Convention Center on Sunday, January 20, 2013.  Animate! Miami was a 3 day festival that will feature celebrity guests, artists, writers, filmmakers, bands, vendors and exhibitors, as well as hundreds of events, including: celebrity Q&A’s, costume contests, cosplay photo shoots, industry panels, live music, video games and much more! Animate! Miami was organized by the same team that puts on the massive Florida Supercon in Miami which will be July 4-5, 2013 at the Miami Airport Convention Center.  See you there!!!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Photographs from Animate! Miami on 1/19/13

Animate! Miami is a convention dedicated to Anime, Animation and Cosplay at the Miami Airport Convention Center on Saturday, January 19, 2013.  Animate! Miami was a 3 day festival that will feature celebrity guests, artists, writers, filmmakers, bands, vendors and exhibitors, as well as hundreds of events, including: celebrity Q&A’s, costume contests, cosplay photo shoots, industry panels, live music, video games and much more! Animate! Miami was organized by the same team that puts on the massive Florida Supercon in Miami which will be July 4-5, 2013 at the Miami Airport Convention Center.  See you there!!!

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Grand Opening of the Purple Line 3/8/13, 3/9/13

Grand Opening of the Purple Line
Friday, 03/08/2013, 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
FlyerPurpleLineThe Purple Line Transit Station
3650 NE 2nd Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33137
Webpage Link

Come join us in celebrating the grand opening of the Purple Transit Line! Find out more about what increased public transportation can do for you and our city! Vendors, musicians, artists and other street performers will fill the train station with entertainment day and night on March 8th from noon to midnight and March 9th from 9am til midnight under the overpass on NE 2nd Avenue and 36th street in Miami. See you there!

Grand Opening Of The Weebles Coast To Coast Interactive Exhibit 1/26/13

Grand Opening Of The Weebles Coast To Coast Interactive Exhibit
Saturday, January 26, 2013 / 11am
Miami Children’s Museum
980 Macarthur Causeway
Watson Island, Miami

Miami Children’s Museum Takes Kids on a 50-State Learning Adventure in the WEEBLES Coast to Coast Exhibit

Children and families are invited to take a trip across the United Sates in Miami Children’s Museum’s new educational WEEBLES Coast to Coast exhibit, January 26 through May 5, 2013.

In the exhibit, created by Milwaukee’s Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in collaboration with Hasbro, Inc., visitors will travel to each of the 50 states to explore U.S. geography, history and culture. Exhibit activities feature favorite American travel, sports and leisure pastimes, music from across the nation, and fun and important information about well-known people, places and historical events. Children will power a riverboat down the Mississippi, hit a home run at Fenway Park, build the Saint Louis Gateway Arch, ride a mule into the Grand Canyon, snorkel in Hawaii, explore the Florida Everglades and much more!

Visitors will enjoy planning their “trip” with a giant U.S. map and a touch-screen kiosk featuring the country’s geographic regions, important state facts, national landmarks and popular tourist destinations. Murals of beautiful American landscapes provide the backdrop for engaging play areas that represent U.S. regions: Western, Mountain, Southwest, Midwest, Southeast and Northeast, and create memorable stops at the seaside, mountains, forest and desert. A special reading area is dedicated to U.S. geography, history, travel, and the idea that “a book can take you anywhere!”

The 2,500 sq. ft. exhibit is designed for children ages 4 -10. Hands-on activities present opportunities for children to build cognitive and social skills, be physically active, curious and imaginative, and express themselves through music, movement and art. Educational content in the exhibit reflects developmental milestones for early learners set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and national academic standards for school-age children.

The educational WEEBLES Coast to Coast exhibit is a marvelous adventure of self-discovery for the whole family, only at Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway on Watson Island in Miami, from Saturday, January 26 through Sunday, May 5, 2013.  Entrance to the exhibit is included in each regular admission to the Museum.  Admission is $16 for adults and children, $12 for Florida Residents, free for children under 1 year and admission for Members is complimentary.  For more information contact the Museum at 305.373.KIDS (5437) or visit www.miamichildrensmuseum.org.

The Miami Children’s Museum offers bilingual and interactive exhibits; programs and classes and learning materials related to arts, culture, community and communication.  They have 14 interactive galleries as well as housing many exciting and fun traveling exhibits.  Miami Children’s Museum (MCM) is dedicated to enriching the lives of all children by fostering a love of learning and enabling children to realize their highest potential. Through arts and educational programs, MCM seeks to include and target all audiences in Miami’s changing and diverse community by becoming the "town center" for Miami-Dade County’s children and families.

Miami Children’s Museum Calendar February 2013

Miami Children’s Museum February Calendar
February 2013
Miami Children’s Museum
980 MacArthur Causeway
Miami, FL 33132.
www.miamichildrensmuseum.org
305.373.KIDS (5437)

Cross Country February
Wobble from Coast to Coast!

Mini Monday Mornings
Every Monday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Join us for a special time with the littlest members of your family. Mini Monday Mornings are designed for children under three years old to have a quiet time to explore the Museum and enjoy programs made just for them. We will engage all of their senses with painting, sand play, story times, and a music activity. There will be no school group visits on these mornings.
 
Wear Red Day
Friday, February 1, 2013
Join us in a country-wide effort to raise awareness about healthy hearts. We will teach children how to be heart smart by eating right and being physically active. Come wearing red to receive a special prize!
 
Groundhog Day
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Legend says that if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t, winter is over and spring is upon us. Join us for a reenactment of the Groundhog Day celebration in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania at 12:00 pm at our Sandcastle!
 
Marilyn’s Cooking Cart
Saturday, February 2, 2013 at 2:00 pm
Help Marilyn cook healthy dishes from across the country and then take the recipes to try at home.
 
Fit and Fun with Panache
Sunday, February 3, 2013 at 2:00 pm
Exercising is fun with Panache Fitness Company. Join them as they take you through different exercises that the whole family can do at home.
 
Super Bowl Sunday
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Come to MCM before the Super Bowl kickoff to run practice drills with real tackle dummies, learn football cheers, and get your face painted with your team colors!
 
Thank a Mailman Day
Monday, February 4, 2013
Join us to celebrate this special day by making a thank you card for your mailman in our Art studio!
 
Sensory Saturday
Saturday, February 9, 2013 from 9:00 am to 11:00 am
The Museum reserves these hours specifically for families of children with special needs. Lights and sounds will be dimmed to create a comfortable environment for children to explore. Special activities will include yoga, art and music. Pre-registration is required. Please contact Angelica at (305) 373-5437 ext. 126 or sensorysaturday@miamichildrensmuseum.org.
MCM opens to the public at 11 am
 
Brazilian Carnival
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Come celebrate carnival at MCM! We will have a parade with confetti and Brazilian drummers and dancers, a special samba class, make our own masks, and more!
 
Zumba Class
Saturday, February 9, 2013 at 2:30 p.m.
Working out is fun and easy to do! Join our Zumba Master Trainer for this 60-minute high energy and motivating Zumba class with unique moves and combinations set to lively music.
 
Chinese New Year Celebration
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Join us at MCM for a special celebration of the Chinese New Year. We will make good luck goldfish, Chinese paper lanterns, and even have a parade with a Chinese dragon!
 
Dance Performance by the Dance Gallery
Sunday, February 10, 2013 at 2:00 pm
Come enjoy a special dance performance by children from the Dance Gallery!
 
New Orleans Mardi Gras!
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Join us on Fat Tuesday to make special Mardi Gras masks in our art studio. We will also be giving everyone a strand of celebratory beads when they come in!
 
Valentine’s Day
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Bring your children to MCM after school on Valentine’s Day to receive a flower! We also be making Valentine cards for the special people in our lives.
 
Target Free Friday
Friday, February 15, 2013
3:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Come enjoy a special geography-themed Friday at the Museum with free admission for everyone. We will have fun activities inspired by the United States, and we will be open late until 9:00 p.m.
 
Marilyn’s Cooking Cart
Saturday, February 16, 2013 at 2:00 pm
Help Marilyn cook healthy dishes from across the country and then take the recipes to try at home.
 
Environmental Explorers Day
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Learn about our planet and environment at MCM! We will be planting our own plants, creating a mangrove diorama, learning about different forms of life in our environment, and seeing what we can do to protect it!
 
President’s Day
Monday, February 18, 2013
Join us on this day off of school for a fun day celebrating our country and our presidents. We will have patriotic crafts in our art studio, and even a historical story times with Benjamin Franklin and Clara Barton!
 
Love Your Pet Day
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Come celebrate Love Your Pet day at MCM. We will be making our own homemade dog treats and cat toys, having a puppet show of the story of Dog and Bear, and having a special reading of The Pigeon Wants a Puppy by Mo Willems.
 
Drumming for Wellness
Saturday, February 23, 2013 at 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm
Jeffrey Deen lets family follow his rhythm each month. Performing on various percussion instruments from around the world, Jeffrey captivates his audience and then invites them to join the fun by handing out a drum to each member.
 
Pioneer Day
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Pioneers were brave Americans who travelled across the country in covered wagons to start a new life on new land. Come learn more about their lifestyle as we make homemade butter, write and draw with homemade ink and quills, and create our own yarn dolls. You can even pose for a family photo in the covered wagon photo op in our Weebles Coast to Coast gallery!
 
 
February Drop Ins:
11 a.m.         Baby Block Builders (Port 1)
11:00 – 3:00         Art Studio Open (AIR)
11:30 a.m.      Weebles World Sandbox (Sandcastle)
12:30 p.m.      Track a Florida Panther (Weebles)
1:30 p.m.       Rock N Roll Dance Party
2:30 p.m.       American Character Story Time
3:30 p.m.       State of the Day
4:30 p.m.       Campfire Circle Time
          
On weekends:
4:00 p.m.              Space Needle Challenge
 
Baby Block Builders- We will take out blocks for our younger visitors to play with and practice hand-eye coordination and motor skills. An educator will be there to facilitate imaginative play.
Weebles World Sandbox- Our giant sandbox has been infested with Weebles! Children can make up a whole world and stories for the different characters while they play in the sand.
Track a Florida Panther- Children will learn directions and how to use a compass with this activity. An educator will meet them in the Weebles gallery and show them how to use a compass to move in certain directions. The children will then get a scavenger hunt with directions like “Go south for about 20 steps, or until you see a sign from the panther.” We will put picture clues around the museum they will find, and the final picture of the panther will be up in the teddy bear gallery. If they write the correct location of the panther on their paper, they will get a prize at the front desk.
Rock n Roll Dance Party- Children will be able to get their groove on to classic American hits
American Character Story Time- We will have children’s stories that tell the story of important American historical figures, ie Amelia Earhart and John Adams. One of our educators will then dress up as the character and read “their” story to the children.
State of the Day- Educators will pick out a state, show the children where is located, and talk about what is important about that state. Afterwards, they will do a activity with the children, i.e. a Hawaiian hula lesson or make monarch butterflies since they are the state insect of Alabama.
Campfire Circle Time- We will set up a pretend bonfire and pop up tent in the gallery and gather the children around. Educators can then teach a sing-a-long (like the Fifty Nifty United States and other patriotic songs) or teach wilderness skills (like how to set up a bonfire, pack for a camping trip, or use a compass)  or just pretend play with the children while explain normal camping activities. Each activity is dependent on the age and amount of children.
Space Needle Challenge-  This is another name for the Marshmallow Challenge. Contestants will try to make the tallest free standing structure out of the given materials that will support the marshmallow on the top, so the entire structure will resemble the Space Needle.
 
Artist in Residence Studio:
Come out and work with our resident artists and enjoy the art activities they have created. 
Open Studio Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
*Closed on Wednesday & Thursday
                   
MCM in the Community:
Here is a list of upcoming events that Miami Children’s Museum will be participating in: 
Story Time at Books & Books  At Coral Gables on Saturday, January 26th at 10 a.m.

The Cleveland Orchestra presents Berlioz and Beethoven with Garrick Ohlsson 2/1/13-2/2/13

The Cleveland Orchestra presents Berlioz and Beethoven with Garrick Ohlsson
TCO_ohlssonFriday, February 1, 2013 at 8 p.m.
Saturday, February 2, 2013 at 8 p.m.
Knight Concert Hall at the
Adrienne Arsht Center for the
Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County
1300 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami
Miami, FL 33132
Click here for program, ticket and series information
Tickets: 305.949.6722

Berlioz & Beethoven
The Cleveland Orchestra
Franz Welser-Möst, conductor
Garrick Ohlsson, piano

Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 4
Berlioz Symphonie fantastique

Berlioz’s groundbreaking symphony depicts the haunting story of an artist plagued by infatuation and unrequited love.

His passionate Symphonie fantastique is juxtaposed with Beethoven’s serene and introspective Piano Concerto No. 4 with the acclaimed Garrick Ohlsson as soloist.

Presented by the Miami Music Association and the Adrienne Arsht Center

The Roxy Theatre Group presents Tarzan the Stage Musical Based on the Disney Film 1/18/13-2/3/13

The Roxy Theatre Group is the first in the United States to present Tarzan® the Stage Musical Based on the Disney Film
January 18, 2013-February 3, 2013. Fridays & Saturdays, 8:00p.m. Sundays, 3:00p.m.
The Roxy Performing Arts Center
1645 SW 107TH Ave.
Miami, FL 33165

General Admission: $20.00. Student Prices: Fridays and Sundays, $10.00; Saturdays, $15.00. There will be a cocktail reception and after-show party on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. & tickets for this gala are $50.00. All proceeds to benefit The Roxy Theatre Group’s Student Scholarship Fund. For tickets or more information, please call 305-226-0030, or visit www.RoxyPAC.com .

The Roxy Theatre Group (RTG) a non-profit youth arts program is proud to present the National premiere of Tarzan® the Stage Musical Based on the Disney Film. Adapted from Edgar Rice Burroughs’ story Tarzan of the Apes, this National debut features a cast and orchestra comprised of 60 students, ages, 8-22 and representing over 30 schools and colleges.
          
Set in an African jungle, Tarzan® is a tale of conditional love, survival, and adventures, complete with swinging performers, high-flying, bungee-jumping monkeys, and exuberant choreography of aerial acrobatics. The Roxy Theatre Group’s young ensemble and orchestra bring forth a musical explosion, with heartfelt songs such as You’ll Be in My Heart, Two Worlds One Family, and Strangers Like Me. The music and lyrics for Tarzan® are by Grammy Award-Winning singer/musician Phil Collins, and the book is by Tony Award-Winning playwright David Henry Hwang. 

"I have been dreaming of playing this role since I saw Tarzan on Broadway in 2006. I am grateful to The Roxy for giving me this opportunity and happy to perform with this awesome cast and orchestra," said Ulises Otero, Jr., 11, playing the role of Young Tarzan. Otero is in the sixth grade at South Miami Middle Community School’s Center for the Arts where he participates in the drama magnet program. He began his studies in dance, voice and acting with The Roxy Theatre Group at the age of three and a half years old.

The Roxy Theatre Group (RTG), a non-profit organization, offers classes in drama, voice, and dance to children ages 3-17, with year-round programs, including two after school care programs and a performing arts summer camp.

2013 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series 4/4/13, 4/17/13, 4/25/13

2013 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series

mercedes-benzMercedes-Benz Corporate Run – Fort Lauderdale
Thursday, April 4, 6:45 P.M.
Huizenga Plaza, 32 East Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
 
Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run – West Palm Beach
Wednesday, April 17, 6:45 P.M.
Meyer Amphitheater, 104 Datura Street, West Palm Beach, Fla.
 
Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run – Miami
Thursday, April 25, 6:45 P.M.
Bayfront Park, 301 North Biscayne Blvd., Miami, Fla.

For more information, please contact TeamFootWorks at (305) 666-RACE (7223)
www.mercedesbenzcorporaterun.com
www.facebook.com/MercedesBenzCorporateRun
www.teamfootworks.org

As South Floridians ring in the new year and pledge to make their health a priority, TeamFootWorks, producers of the Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series, is excited to announce the 2013 5K Run/Walk race dates and welcome the series’ new benefiting charity, United Way. Having attracted a record breaking 29,000 participants in 2012, the race series will once again take over South Florida with three runs beginning in Fort Lauderdale on April 4, continuing in West Palm Beach on April 17 and concluding in Miami on April 25, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit United Way. Registration for each run is now open.
 
"United Way is committed to the health and wellness of its employees and the various communities it serves,” said Harve A. Mogul, president and CEO, United Way of Miami-Dade. “The health and wellness of others impacts us all. When individuals have the opportunity to better health, the full potential of our young people is realized; business productivity increases, health care costs are lowered and we all win. We’re honored to be involved with the Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run series and look forward to working with TeamFootWorks to help transform people’s lives and create healthy communities throughout South Florida.”

The Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run Series attracts more than 1,100 South Florida Companies and incorporates a special competition to award the overall men’s, women’s and co-ed teams in 20 different industries. The run is open to employees of businesses, corporations, government agencies, financial institutions and non-profits – regardless of company size. Known as “Florida’s Largest Office Party”, everyone is encouraged to participate and join their company team to walk or run as a group. Beginners can “ease into exercise” with friends, gain inspiration and motivation to continue walking and running to improve overall health, while competitive runners have the opportunity to shine amongst their co-workers and lead the corporate team to victory. Often this is the first step towards greater health and wellness amongst South Florida employees and their companies.

“Whether the race series is your first step toward fitness or an office tradition, the Corporate Run is about having fun, getting healthy and boosting company morale,” said Laurie Huseby, race director, Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run. “The benefits of adding fitness to your life are numerous and we’re proud to be committed to that process for more than 28 years.” 
 
Sponsors of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz Corporate Run series include the local South Florida Mercedes-Benz Dealers, American Airlines, BB&T, Baptist Health, Club Med, Sharp, UPS, Pearl Izumi, Southern Waste Systems and more. Media partners included The Miami Herald, El Nuevo Herald, CBS 4, My 33, Mega 94.3, 93.9 MIA, NewsRadio 610, Y100, Brickell Magazine, WLRN, Mia 92.1, Newsradio 1290 WJNO, Gater 98.7, Kool 105.5 and more.

Virginia Key Grassroots Festival of Music and Dance 2/21/13-2/24/13

Virginia Key Grassroots Festival of Music and Dance
February 21-24, 2013, 04:01 pm – 11:59 pm
Virginia_Key_Grassroots_Poster1Historic Virginia Key Beach Park
4020 Virginia Beach Drive ,
Key Biscayne, Florida 33149
Webpage Link

The four day GrassRoots Festival event will feature: music on four stages, on-site camping, Sustainability Fair & Expo, Kids’ Area, Dance Tent, World Foods Cafe, and Zen Village Area with Healing Arts, Yoga, movement workshops, massage, meditation and crafts.

Musical highlights include: Inner Circle, Rusted Root, MC Yogi, Suenalo, Donna the Buffalo, Keith Frank & His Soileau Zydeco Band, Spam Allstars, Locos Por Juana, Elastic Bond, ArtOfficial, Driftwood, Johnny Dread, Revelation Mizik, Jose Conde, Keith Secola, Equanimous Minds, Osceola Brothers.

Local partners include: Virginia Key Beach Park Trust, Zen Village, Moksha Family

Art Collective, and Community Arts & Culture. These organizations are working in

cooperation with the GrassRoots Festival Organization to produce the 2nd annual Virginia

Key GrassRoots Festival.

Virginia Key Grassroots Festival of Music and Dance 2/23/13

Virginia Key Grassroots Festival of Music and Dance
Saturday, 02/23/2013, 12:01 am – 11:55 pm
Virginia_Key_Grassroots_Poster2Historic Virginia Key Beach Park
4020 Virginia Beach Drive ,
Key Biscayne, Florida 33149
Webpage Link

The four day GrassRoots Festival event will feature: music on four stages, on-site camping, Sustainability Fair & Expo, Kids’ Area, Dance Tent, World Foods Cafe, and Zen Village Area with Healing Arts, Yoga, movement workshops, massage, meditation and crafts.

Musical highlights include: Inner Circle, Rusted Root, MC Yogi, Suenalo,
Donna the Buffalo, Keith Frank & His Soileau Zydeco Band, Spam Allstars,
Locos Por Juana, Elastic Bond, ArtOfficial, Driftwood, Johnny Dread, Revelation
Mizik, Jose Conde, Keith Secola, Equanimous Minds, Osceola Brothers.

Local partners include: Virginia Key Beach Park Trust, Zen Village, Moksha Family
Art Collective, and Community Arts & Culture. These organizations are working in
cooperation with the GrassRoots Festival Organization to produce the 2nd annual Virginia
Key GrassRoots Festival.

Opening Reception for Seven50’s Second Summit 1/23/13

Opening Reception for Seven50’s Second Summit
Wednesday, 01/23/2013, 06:00 pm – 08:00 pm
Seven50-Flyer1The Freedom Tower
600 Biscayne Boulevard,
Miami, Florida 33132
RSVP Link

The Southeast Florida Regional Partnership cordially invites you to the opening reception of the Seven50 summit. The Seven50 summit will focus on looking ahead. With keypad polling and presentations from thought-leaders, the interactive event will help continue creation of a plan for more prosperous communities, healthier environment, and a stronger economy. The informal summit reception will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, January 23, at the Freedom Tower, 600 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL, 33132.
The second Seven50 public summit – “A Look Ahead: Trends and Opportunities” – will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, January 24, at the Chapman Room at Miami-Dade College’s Wolfson Campus, 300 NE Second Ave., Miami, FL, 33132. The Public is invited to help develop a regional blueprint for Southeast Florida. A live webcast will be provided for those who cannot attend in person. During the highly interactive summit, attendees will participate in live keypad polls throughout the day and personally record videos with their visions for the region. The public will also get a first peek at a comprehensive model for the seven counties in 2060, which is currently under development, and will provide input for the creation of alternate future scenarios. Attendees will design the future alongside urban planners and transportation experts. The goal of Seven50 is to create stronger, more diverse communities, a cleaner environment and a stronger economy for the region comprised of Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River counties. Led by the South Florida and Treasure Coast Regional Planning Councils and the Southeast Florida Regional Partnership (SFRP), a collaboration of more than 200 public, private and civic stakeholders from the region, the initiative seeks to develop a 50-year blueprint for a more prosperous and resilient future. To learn more and register, the public may visit www.Seven50.org

New Theatre presents Agnes of God by John Pielmeier 2/1/13-2/17/13

New Theatre presents Agnes of God by John Pielmeier
February 1 – 17, 2013
(Press Opening Saturday, February 2, 2013)
Performance times: Thursday – Saturday at 8 pm &
Sunday at 1 pm and Sunday at 5:30 pm performances on February 10 & 17.
Roxy Performing Arts Center
1645 SW 107th Avenue
Miami, FL 33165

Ticket information:
Thursdays & Sunday evenings: $35
All other performances $ 40.
Student Rush (under 25 with ID) Ticket: $15 at the door based on availability
"25 under 25" FREE Student Tickets  to Opening Weekend! The first 25 students 25 or younger get in FREE on February 1 – 3!
For tickets, call (305) 443-5909
Or visit www.new-theatre.org

New Theatre presents its second Mainstage Classic of the season – Agnes of God by John Pielmeier.

In this psychological drama which was a hit Broadway and later made into a film, a court-appointed psychiatrist is charged with the task of assessing the sanity of a novice nun (Agnes) accused of murdering her newborn. However, the Mother Superior keeps young Agnes from the doctor, arousing the doctor’s suspicions further. Who killed the infant and who fathered the tiny victim? These questions force all three women to re-examine the meaning of faith and the power of love.

Under the direction of Artistic Director Ricky J. Martinez, the powerhouse female cast consists of  New Theatre veterans Barbara Sloan, Christina Groom and Pamela Roza, returning to the stage after a 3 year absence.  The team includes:  Production Stage Manager, Jerry Jensen with Scenic Designer: Ricky J. Martinez, Sound Designer: R. Kent Wilson, Lighting Designer: Eric J. Cantrell and Costume Designer: K. Blair Brown.  Agnes of God  is made possible in part by Citizens Interested in Arts and and programming support from the Miami Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Affairs Council, the Mayor, the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners.

Swamp Stomp Music Festival 2013 2/16/13

Swamp Stomp Music Festival 2013
Sunday, 02/16/2013, 04:00 pm – 02:00 am
Final-PosterTobacco Road
626 South Miami Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33130
Buy Tickets Link

What started as a killer backyard barbecue with a few friends in 2007 with a bunch of bands and booze has turned into one of Miami’s premier Independent Music Festivals. In its last year, the festival attracted almost 2,000 people from across the country. Swamp Stomp is back this year to celebrate its 5th anniversary with Fishbone, Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds, a cadre of local artists and our fellow Swamp Stompers at our new home in downtown Miami, the historic Tobacco Road.

Kiss and Tell in Gillette’s Live National Experiment 1/31/13

Kiss and Tell in Gillette’s Live National Experiment
Sunday, 01/31/2013, 11:00 am – 05:00 pm
Couple_SiloPink_SmallUniv. of Miami
1252 Memorial Dr.,
Miami, Florida 33124
Webpage Link

Research shows that people are kissing less than ever and that 66% of women have avoided kissing a guy because he had facial hair. With Valentine’s Day on the horizon and signs showing that the kiss may be on the decline, Gillette is asking couples across America to help determine if stubble could be the trouble.

Miami couples are invited to kiss in-person – with and without stubble – to uncover which kiss is best: a kiss with stubble or smooth shaven skin.

Couples should arrive with stubble – first conducting an introductory interview, then kissing with stubble. Men will then shave and the couple will kiss again. A short follow-up survey will be conducted to determine which is truly more kissable. Prizes will be awarded to all who pucker up: free Gillette swag for the guys and a COVERGIRL LipPerfection Jumbo Gloss Balm for the ladies!

Anyone unable to attend in-person can conduct the experiment online at kissandtellus.com. National results will be announced on Valentine’s Day.

2013 Marlins Energy Team Open Auditions 1/20/13

2013 Marlins Energy Team Open Auditions
Sunday, 01/20/2013, 01:00 pm – 04:00 pm
MET-AUDITIONS-FLYERMarlins Park
501 Marlins Way,
Miami, Florida 33125
Facebook Link

The Miami Marlins are looking for the most talented female & male dancers, cheerleaders, gymnasts and break dancers to become part of the 2013 Miami Marlins Energy Team!
The Miami Marlins Energy Team is a high-energy squad with a unique mix of gymnastics, hip-hop, acrobatics, modern jazz funk and break dancing. The Energy Team will provide excitement and entertainment during Miami Marlins homes games and appearances throughout the community.

If you are multi-talented, have great stage presence, strong technique, innovative in your art, a unique style, a team player, open minded and a readiness to learn – The Miami Marlins is looking for you !

OPEN AUDITIONS FOR DANCERS, CHEERLEADERS, GYMNAST & BREAK DANCERS !

2013 Miami Marlins Energy Entertainment Team
Sunday, January 20, 2013

Marlins Ball Park
1390 Northwest 6th Street
Miami, FL 33125

ARE YOU READY?
 Perform on the field at the New Marlins Ballpark
 Exposure through media, high profile events and community relations
 Receive Extensive Training in various styles by the best choreographers & coaches in Miami and get paid for it ! All Rehearsals, games and community appearances are paid events.
 Become part of one of the best and most unique entertainment teams in Miami

Open Call – Registration Times and Audition Information:

1:00-2:00PM: Female & Male Dancers – Must have previous dance experience in hip-hop & some Jazz. Dancers will be taught a hip-hop, jazz-funk combination, multi talented dancers are encouraged to demonstrate any acrobatics or exceptional technique within the freestyle portion of the combination. Dancers may be taught more combinations as several cuts may be necessary.

3:00-4:00 PM: Co-Ed Cheerleaders & Gymnasts – Must have advanced tumbling experience or Flying/Stunting experience. Cheerleaders & Gymnasts must be willing and able to demonstrate skills on a hardwood floor. All Flyers/Stunters must have a partner at auditions to demonstrate skills. Partner does not need to audition but is preferred. Flyers/Stunters will be taught a short combination with different options to demonstrate their flying/stunting technique. Gymnasts must have their own tumbling pass or demonstration prepared. Both Cheerleaders and gymnasts will also be taught a short movement combination to demonstrate.

4:00-5:00 PM: B-BOYS & B-GIRLS – Must have mastered the art of Breaking. Break dancers will be placed in groups and individually freestyle in a cipher. Break dancers are encouraged to demonstrate as much technique as possible, (ie. top rock, foot work, power moves, freezes). All Break dancers will also be taught a short up rock, locking combination to perform as part of their audition. Poppers, Lockers, and specialty acts are also welcomed to audition during this segment.

Requirements, Rules & Regulations:

ï‚§ Performers must provide a resume and head shot (non-returnable) during their category registration time. Headshots may be any size and does not need to be a professional shot. A current picture is perfect, for identification purposes only.
ï‚§ Must be at least 18 years of age by Open Auditions
ï‚§ Must complete Registration form, liability waiver and image release at auditions.
ï‚§ Participants are encouraged to arrive ready to perform with dance/performance attire and shoes (non-marking sole).
ï‚§ Auditions will commence immediately after the registration time for each category.
ï‚§ Each participant may only audition for one category, participants will have the opportunity to demonstrate other skills during their audition.
ï‚§ No Height/Weight requirements, but a proportional slim/athletic fit is required by the team costume and apparel.
ï‚§ If selected for the team, MUST have a flexible schedules for appearances and games.
ï‚§ If selected for the team, MUST attend ALL SCHEDULED rehearsals. Rehearsals are conducted Monday-Thursday Nights from 7:30- 11:00 PM. Members will receive a monthly rehearsal schedule as to which sectional and full squad rehearsals they are to attend.
ï‚§ Must have all necessary valid documentation to work in this country and in this capacity.
ï‚§ If selected for the team, participant must live in or relocate to South Florida and have reliable means of transportation.
ï‚§ Talent will be judged on performance, showmanship, energy, poise, personality, dance technique, style, personal appearance, physical fitness and professionalism.

Boot Camp / Finals Show:

The Finalists from the Open Auditions will move on to perform at the Miami Marlins Energy Entertainment Team Audition Finals Show. To prepare for the show, the Finalists will participate in a week of intensive dance, stunting, tumbling training and conditioning within their respective genres at the Finals Boot Camp. Along with the Boot Camp, all finalist will be required to attend a formal office interview.

Finalist will be issued a Marlins Energy Team Finalist Packet with all the Boot Camp information, including dates, locations, wardrobe and an interview date and time.
Interviews will be conducted Monday through Wednesday Jan.21st-23rd at Marlins Park. Boot Camp will be January 24th, 25th and the 28th through 30th in the evenings at various rehearsal locations. All selected Finalist must be available for every night of the Boot Camp from 7:00- 11:00 p.m.

The 2013 Miami Marlins Energy Team will be announced at the Finals Show. The Miami Marlins Energy Team Auditions Finals show will be held at The Miami Dade County Auditorium on Thursday January 31, 2013 at 7:30 PM. Call Time for all finalist will be 2:00 PM.

For more information please email jguerrero@marlins.com

Jay Siegel and The Tokens Performs at Alper JCC Special Needs Fundraiser 2/9/13

Music of the 60’s for Alper JCC Special Needs Fundraiser
Saturday, February 9th, 7pm
JS Tokens-text-2012The Alper JCC Robert Russell Theater
11155 SW 112 Avenue
Miami.

Tickets: $65, $100, $150 per person and can be purchased online at alperjcc.org or by calling Melinda Wiser at 305.271.9000 x243.

The multitalented Jay Siegel best known his soaring falsetto on The Tokens’ mega-hit, "The Lion Sleeps Tonight," performs with the group  at the 17th annual Alper JCC Special Needs fundraiser. The evening includes a cocktail hour, silent auction, the show Music of the 60’s, and a gourmet dessert reception. All proceeds from the evening benefit the Alper JCC’s Shirley and Chester Paul Special Needs Program for children, ages 4 years and up, with cognitive and/or physical disabilities.

Air Supply and Special Guest Atlanta Rhythm Section at Magic City Casino 2/2/13

Air Supply and Special Guest Atlanta Rhythm Section
Air Supply - Photo 3Saturday, February 2 at 8pm
Magic City Casino
450 NW 37 Avenue
Miami
free parking with Valet parking available as well.

Tickets are available starting at $20 and can be purchased online at www.magiccitycasino.com  or by calling 305-460-6579.

Magic City Casino, Miami’s first casino to offer Las Vegas style slot machines, prepares for an encore performance of the Australian soft rock duo, Air Supply, with special guest, Atlanta Rhythm Section. Attendees can look forward to an evening of 80’s soft rock hits.
 
“We can’t get enough of Air Supply! Concert goers will enjoy an energy-charged performance, and they will be singing along to their favorite ballads,” said Scott Savin, Chief Operating Officer of Magic City Casino. “Air Supply and Atlanta Rhythm Section present a great live show. Fans are encouraged to get their tickets early as they will go fast.”
 
Air Supply formed in Melbourne, Australia in 1975. Since then, they have produced a string of unforgettable hits that have topped the charts worldwide. Air Supply entered the early 1980’s with eight top ten hits in the United States, and in 2008 they were named among the best musical acts of all time by Billboard Hot 100. Some of Air Supply’s most popular recordings include “All Out of Love,” “Lost in Love,” “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” and “The One That You Love.”
 
Special guest, Atlanta Rhythm Section, will warm up the crowd before Air Supply takes the stage. Atlanta Rhythm Section, an American rock band with roots in both British rock and southern rhythm and blues, has a strong following in the southern United States. The band has produced over 16 albums and is responsible for a number of hits including “So Into You,” “Champagne Jam” and “Imaginary Lover.” 

President and CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines Speaks at The Leadership Lectures Series at FIU 1/22/13

President and CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines Speaks at The Leadership Lectures Series at FIU
Tuesday, January 22, 2013, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Florida International University, College of Law, RDB 1000
11200 SW 8th Street
Miami, Florida 33199
To attend The Leadership Lectures series with Gerry Cahill, please register online or visit lead.fiu.edu for further information.
 
The Center for Leadership at Florida International University is pleased to announce that Gerry Cahill, president and CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines, will be the keynote speaker of their next Leadership Lectures series.  Cahill will deliver a public lecture on “Carnival Cruise Lines: A Cultural Transformation,” where he will address why the most successful cruise line in the world is undergoing a significant cultural change and how they plan on implementing it.  The lecture, which is part of the Center’s The Leadership Lectures series, is free and open to the public.
 
At the helm of the world’s largest and most popular cruise line since 2007, Cahill oversees 43,000 employees and 24 cruise ships that carry 4.4 million passengers annually. Prior to being appointed to his current position, Cahill served as executive vice president and chief financial officer for Carnival Corporation & plc.  He joined Carnival Cruise Lines’ parent company, Carnival Corporation, in 1994, where he served as senior vice president (finance and chief financial officer) and vice president (finance). 
 
The Leadership Lectures series, presented by Mercantil Commercebank, features world-class, accomplished and influential leaders with expertise ranging from business and philanthropy to public service and academic research. The main goal of the series is to allow the South Florida community to have access to the expertise, advice and best practices of some the world’s foremost leadership minds.

Gema Corredera in Concert at Miami Dade County Auditorium 4/6/13

Gema Corredera in Concert
fundarte_Fundarte2013WEB3Saturday, April 6th, 8:00 p.m. 2013
Miami Dade County Auditorium
2901 W. Flagler St.
Miami
Tickets: $55, $45, $35, $25 and $5 off in each price for students and seniors
Click here for tickets

Gema Corredera, one of Miami’s musical treasures, will be performing highlights from her first solo album, “Derramando Luz” (“Spreading Light”) on Saturday, April 6th, at 8:00 p.m. at Miami Dade County Auditorium. This celebrated vocalist brings her exceptional voice and musicianship to the local stage with a sound influenced as much by her Cuban roots as by Jazz, Brazilian music, Opera, and Flamenco. Her voice moves fluently through a multitude of genres, creating a rich tapestry of Jazz and Cuban music that continuously recalls the tropical sensuality of Cuban Rumba, Son,"Filin," Bolero and Afro-Caribbean rhythms. With a stage presence that is unassuming yet captivating, Gema Corredera is an earthy, yet sophisticated singer with an amazing vocal range and versatile interpretative style that is intimate, smooth, funky, playful and seductive.

Tango Double Bill presented by Florida Grand Opera 3/21/13

Tango Double Bill presented by Florida Grand Opera
Thursday, 03/21/2013, 08:00 pm – 11:15 pm
The Stage
170 Northeast 38 Street,
Miami, Florida 33137
Webpage Link

Florida Grand Opera looks to expand the reach of opera with “Unexpected Opera in Unexpected Places.” Designed to bring less-known works to unique venues throughout South Florida in an effort to expose new audiences to opera, with the support of a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation as part of its Knights Arts Challenge. The first installment of this new initiative will bring operatic productions to the Midtown neighborhood for the first time with a tango double-bill featuring Robert Xavier Rodriguez’s Tango and Ástor Piazzolla’s María de Buenos Aires, held at the popular Midtown music venue The Stage on March 21-24, 2013.

TANGO
A product of the highly-acclaimed, living American composer Robert Xavier Rodriguez, Tango is a one-act comic concert operetta composed for a single tenor, sung by Young Artist Matthew Newlin, and a chamber ensemble. Designed to present three consecutive scenes without pause, the action follows the protagonist at the height of the tango craze in 1913 as he embodies different characters to convey the varied perceptions of this seductive and polarizing dance.

This work will be sung in English, using the composer’s own translation of the libretto.

MARIA DE BUENOS AIRES
The surreal plot of María de Buenos Aires is filled with elements of magical realism, a Latin American movement that thins the veil between fantasy and reality. This is the tale of ill-fated María, who was said to be born “on a day when God was drunk.” Living in the poor suburbs of Buenos Aires, María is seduced by the sounds of tango, becoming a streetwalker, and falling victim to a tragic death. The audience then follows María’s Shadow as it walks the city’s Underground, which has become her hell.

This work is being presented in a slightly abridged version that runs for 70 minutes and sung in Spanish.

Tango Double Bill presented by Florida Grand Opera 4/22/13

Tango Double Bill presented by Florida Grand Opera
Friday, 03/22/2013, 08:00 pm – 11:15 pm
The Stage
170 Northeast 38 Street,
Miami, Florida 33137
Webpage Link

Florida Grand Opera looks to expand the reach of opera with “Unexpected Opera in Unexpected Places.” Designed to bring less-known works to unique venues throughout South Florida in an effort to expose new audiences to opera, with the support of a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation as part of its Knights Arts Challenge. The first installment of this new initiative will bring operatic productions to the Midtown neighborhood for the first time with a tango double-bill featuring Robert Xavier Rodriguez’s Tango and Ástor Piazzolla’s María de Buenos Aires, held at the popular Midtown music venue The Stage on March 21-24, 2013.

TANGO
A product of the highly-acclaimed, living American composer Robert Xavier Rodriguez, Tango is a one-act comic concert operetta composed for a single tenor, sung by Young Artist Matthew Newlin, and a chamber ensemble. Designed to present three consecutive scenes without pause, the action follows the protagonist at the height of the tango craze in 1913 as he embodies different characters to convey the varied perceptions of this seductive and polarizing dance.

This work will be sung in English, using the composer’s own translation of the libretto.

MARIA DE BUENOS AIRES
The surreal plot of María de Buenos Aires is filled with elements of magical realism, a Latin American movement that thins the veil between fantasy and reality. This is the tale of ill-fated María, who was said to be born “on a day when God was drunk.” Living in the poor suburbs of Buenos Aires, María is seduced by the sounds of tango, becoming a streetwalker, and falling victim to a tragic death. The audience then follows María’s Shadow as it walks the city’s Underground, which has become her hell.

This work is being presented in a slightly abridged version that runs for 70 minutes and sung in Spanish.

Tango Double Bill presented by Florida Grand Opera 3/23/13

Tango Double Bill presented by Florida Grand Opera
Saturday, 03/23/2013, 08:00 pm – 11:15 pm
The Stage
170 Northeast 38 Street,
Miami, Florida 33137
Webpage Link

Florida Grand Opera looks to expand the reach of opera with “Unexpected Opera in Unexpected Places.” Designed to bring less-known works to unique venues throughout South Florida in an effort to expose new audiences to opera, with the support of a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation as part of its Knights Arts Challenge. The first installment of this new initiative will bring operatic productions to the Midtown neighborhood for the first time with a tango double-bill featuring Robert Xavier Rodriguez’s Tango and Ástor Piazzolla’s María de Buenos Aires, held at the popular Midtown music venue The Stage on March 21-24, 2013.

TANGO
A product of the highly-acclaimed, living American composer Robert Xavier Rodriguez, Tango is a one-act comic concert operetta composed for a single tenor, sung by Young Artist Matthew Newlin, and a chamber ensemble. Designed to present three consecutive scenes without pause, the action follows the protagonist at the height of the tango craze in 1913 as he embodies different characters to convey the varied perceptions of this seductive and polarizing dance.

This work will be sung in English, using the composer’s own translation of the libretto.

MARIA DE BUENOS AIRES
The surreal plot of María de Buenos Aires is filled with elements of magical realism, a Latin American movement that thins the veil between fantasy and reality. This is the tale of ill-fated María, who was said to be born “on a day when God was drunk.” Living in the poor suburbs of Buenos Aires, María is seduced by the sounds of tango, becoming a streetwalker, and falling victim to a tragic death. The audience then follows María’s Shadow as it walks the city’s Underground, which has become her hell.

This work is being presented in a slightly abridged version that runs for 70 minutes and sung in Spanish.

Tango Double Bill presented by Florida Grand Opera 3/24/13

Tango Double Bill presented by Florida Grand Opera
Sunday, 03/24/2013, 08:00 pm – 11:15 pm
The Stage
170 Northeast 38 Street,
Miami, Florida 33137
Webpage Link

Florida Grand Opera looks to expand the reach of opera with “Unexpected Opera in Unexpected Places.” Designed to bring less-known works to unique venues throughout South Florida in an effort to expose new audiences to opera, with the support of a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation as part of its Knights Arts Challenge. The first installment of this new initiative will bring operatic productions to the Midtown neighborhood for the first time with a tango double-bill featuring Robert Xavier Rodriguez’s Tango and Ástor Piazzolla’s María de Buenos Aires, held at the popular Midtown music venue The Stage on March 21-24, 2013.

TANGO
A product of the highly-acclaimed, living American composer Robert Xavier Rodriguez, Tango is a one-act comic concert operetta composed for a single tenor, sung by Young Artist Matthew Newlin, and a chamber ensemble. Designed to present three consecutive scenes without pause, the action follows the protagonist at the height of the tango craze in 1913 as he embodies different characters to convey the varied perceptions of this seductive and polarizing dance.

This work will be sung in English, using the composer’s own translation of the libretto.

MARIA DE BUENOS AIRES
The surreal plot of María de Buenos Aires is filled with elements of magical realism, a Latin American movement that thins the veil between fantasy and reality. This is the tale of ill-fated María, who was said to be born “on a day when God was drunk.” Living in the poor suburbs of Buenos Aires, María is seduced by the sounds of tango, becoming a streetwalker, and falling victim to a tragic death. The audience then follows María’s Shadow as it walks the city’s Underground, which has become her hell.

This work is being presented in a slightly abridged version that runs for 70 minutes and sung in Spanish.

Read Along, Sing a Song by Florida Grand Opera 2/12/13

Read Along, Sing a Song by Florida Grand Opera
Tuesday, 02/12/2013, 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Read-AlongArcola Lakes Branch Library
8240 NW 7 Ave.,
Miami, Florida 33150
Webpage Link

Florida Grand Opera (FGO) continues to solidify its commitment to education and the community by partnering with the Miami-Dade County and Broward County Public Library Systems to offer a FREE literacy program running through the 2012-2013 season.

The “Read Along, Sing a Song” program is designed for elementary school aged children, walking them through a pre-selected story and incorporating elements from different artistic disciplines found within opera. As the children read, they may be instructed to pick up an instrument, follow a dance or sing to a melody during a high point of the story, making reading even more engaging and fun.

Catering to underserved communities, the program is offered at no cost. To maximize the learning experience, sessions are limited to 25 children each. Reservations can be made in advance by contacting FGO Education Manager, Cerise Sutton, at csutton@fgo.org or 305-854-1643 ext. 1100. For specific dates and other details, please visit www.FGO.org/education.

Read Along, Sing a Song by Florida Grand Opera 3/27/13

Read Along, Sing a Song by Florida Grand Opera
Wednesday, 03/27/2013, 03:00 pm – 04:00 pm
Read-Along1Kendale Lakes Branch Library
15205 SW 88 Street,
Miami, Florida 33196
Webpage Link

Florida Grand Opera (FGO) continues to solidify its commitment to education and the community by partnering with the Miami-Dade County and Broward County Public Library Systems to offer a FREE literacy program running through the 2012-2013 season.

The “Read Along, Sing a Song” program is designed for elementary school aged children, walking them through a pre-selected story and incorporating elements from different artistic disciplines found within opera. As the children read, they may be instructed to pick up an instrument, follow a dance or sing to a melody during a high point of the story, making reading even more engaging and fun.

Catering to underserved communities, the program is offered at no cost. To maximize the learning experience, sessions are limited to 25 children each. Reservations can be made in advance by contacting FGO Education Manager, Cerise Sutton, at csutton@fgo.org or 305-854-1643 ext. 1100. For specific dates and other details, please visit www.FGO.org/education.

Casablanca Seafood Bar and Grill Grand Opening 1/17/13

Casablanca Seafood Bar & Grill Grand Opening
casablancaThursday, January 17th from 7-9pm
Casablanca Seafood Bar & Grill
1717 N. Bayshore Drive RG Level 2nd Floor
305.371.4931 / www.casablancaseafood.com

Please RSVP To: RSVP@24-group.com

Casablanca Welcomes You To Its Grand Opening.
 
Casablanca Seafood Bar & Grill has made its way to North Bayshore Drive and has opened a second location, at the DoubleTree Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay. The new restaurant overlooks the Sea Isle Marina and will stay true to its sea-to-table concept.

Complimentary Draft Beer, Wine & Hors D’oeuvres
Live DJ Spinning The Best Music 

RunWild 5K at Zoo Miami to benefit the homeless 2/9/13

RunWild 5K at Zoo Miami to benefit the homeless
Saturday, 02/09/2013, 07:00 am –
RunWild-5K-Zoo-MiamiZoo Miami
12400 SW 152nd St.,
Miami, Florida 33196
Webpage Link

Bring your family and friends for a 5-kilometer run or walk through beautiful Zoo Miami. Competitive awards will be given to the top three males and females in each age category. Activities for the runners and walkers include a stretch session by Pilates in the Grove. A bounce house, clowns and music will provide entertainment for children. The Arthur & Polly Mays Conservatory of the Arts marching band and auxiliary team, fresh off their Junior Orange Bowl Parade act, will kick off the event. A health fair with blood pressure testing and more also is planned.

Proceeds from fundraising activities for the race will benefit Chapman Partnership, formerly Community Partnership for Homeless. The organization helps the homeless put their lives back together with a comprehensive support program that includes emergency shelter, meals, health and dental care, day care, job training, job placement, and assistance with securing housing.

To learn more about fundraising and sponsorship opportunities, contact Karla Merrell, event coordinator, at 305-329-3092 or kmerrell@chapmanpartnership.org.

Badass Businesswomen 3-Year Anniversary 2/22/13

soulofmiamifeatured
Badass Businesswomen 3-Year Anniversary
Friday, 02/22/2013, 07:00 pm – 10:10 pm
Badass_Revised_White copy-1IronFlower Fitness
7300 Biscayne Boulevard,
Miami, Florida 33138
RSVP Link

There are many entrepreneurs.

There are many artists.

But there are few artistic entrepreneurs…

…And even fewer entrepreneurial artists.

Artistic entrepreneurs are creative people who know how to sell their services or products at high prices. They understand the power of money to fuel their vision, so they focus on creative ways to attract and retain the perfect clients.

Those of you who attend the third anniversary party of Badass Businesswomen on FEBRUARY 22, 2013 will go home infused with creative vibes…empowered by fellow Badass Businesswomen who are coming together to shed our 2012 skin and start fresh with a powerful vision for what’s possible in 2013. Time to come up with creative ways to attract and retain the perfect clients, and have them begging to work with you… =)

Picnic in the Park at the Deering Estate 1/20/13

Picnic in the Park at the Deering Estate
picnicSunday, January 20, 2013, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Deering Estate at Cutler
16701 SW 72 Avenue
Miami, FL 33157
305-235-1668 ext. 233
More Info

Admission: $7 for all ages!
Free admission for Deering Estate Foundation Members & children under 4.
Picnic in the Park

Spend a relaxing day with your family & friends at the Deering Estate and enjoy a picnic on the main lawn. The Deering Estate will be open to guests for a reduced rate of $7 for all ages!

Chef David Schwadron Catering and Joanna’s Marketplace are the official picnic providers for the Deering Estate at Cutler and can be contacted directly for preordered meals. Preordered picnic baskets are available for delivery to the Estate or for pick-up. Please call 305-238-5881 for Chef David Schwadron Catering and 305-661-5777 for Joanna’s Marketplace.

"Picnic in the Park" activities include:
Bocce ball, croquet & badminton;
Historic House Tours at 10:30 am & 3:00 pm;
Natural Areas Tour at 12:30 pm;
Performances throughout the day by the Tandem Theatre Project;
"Guardians of the Everglades" Exhibit;
and the Ceramic League of Miami Exhibit.

Free Kids Event 2/9/13-2/10/13

Free Kids Event
Saturday, 02/09/2013, 12:00 pm – 04:00 pm
Valentines-Day-Kids-Back-Web-FriendlyFrames USA & Art Gallery
6822 SW 40th St ,
Miami, Florida 33155
Webpage Link

FREE KIDS EVENT

On Saturday February 9th & Sunday February 10th from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, kids of all ages can participate in a FREE arts and craft event. This event is called “Make your own picture frame”. The purpose of this event will be for kids to make their own picture frame and put a photo no larger than 8×10 in it . Lunch will be provided for parents and kids with a RSVP by Wednesday February 6th. The event will take place in front of Frames USA & Art Gallery located 6822 SW 40th St, Miami, FL 33155 in the Bird Ludlam Shopping Center. Kids MUST bring their favorite photo to frame. Kids will use kid friendly tools to create their own masterpiece frame to take home and give that someone special for Valentines Day. You MUST RSVP by visiting our Facebook page www.facebook.com/framesusamiami, or by calling our store at 305-666-3355. You MUST RSVP by Wednesday February 6, 2013. If you show up that day without confirming you will not get lunch.

The Heineken DWNTWN Miami Concert Series Presented by Car2GO Features Allen Stone & Jacob Jeffries Band 1/11/13

The Heineken DWNTWN Miami Concert Series Presented by Car2GO Features Allen Stone & Jacob Jeffries Band
Friday, 01/11/2013, 06:00 pm – 10:00 pm
AllenStoneFBFlyerBayfront Park (Tina Hills Pavilion)
301 North Biscayne Boulevard,
Miami, Florida 33132
Webpage Link

Don’t miss a FREE festival at Bayfront Park this FRIDAY, January 11th from 6pm-10pm featuring Allen Stone and Jacob Jeffries Band! Enjoy a night time Farmers Market, an Arts and Craft Vendor showcase, the Heineken Beer Garden, and more presented by car2go Miami!

Bayfront Park Miami:
301 North Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida 33132

Visit us online http://dwntwnconcerts.com/ for more information.

Wounded Warrior Project 2013 Sunshine State Soldier Ride 1/9/13-/13/13

Wounded Warrior Project 2013 Sunshine State Soldier Ride
Wednesday, January 9 – Sunday, January 13
The Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Aventura Mall
19900 W Country Club Drive
Aventura, FL 33180

Jungle Island
1111 Parrot Jungle Trail
Miami, FL 33132

www.woundedwarriorproject.org
 
Wounded warriors from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan will kick off Wounded Warrior Project’s (WWP) 2013 Sunshine State Soldier Ride in Miami, Florida on Wednesday, January 9th. More than 50 wounded veterans will take part in the five-day cycling event which will travel through Miami Beach and the Florida Keys.

Soldier Ride, a program of the Wounded Warrior Project will bring together wounded warriors from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to cycle on adaptive equipment from Miami to Key West.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013: Warriors arrive in Miami for bike fitting.
12pm – 3pm.The Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Aventura Mall
4 p.m. A welcome reception, tour and dinner will be held at Jungle Island.

Thursday, January 10, 2013: Warriors Kick-off ride in and around Miami.
7 a.m. Warriors greet local school children outside their hotel, The Residence Inn Miami.
9 a.m. Breakfast at Finnegan’s Way, South Beach
10 a.m. Soldier Ride Departure from Finnegan’s Way for ride through South Beach and Miami
11:30 a.m. Ceremony at Marlins Park, followed by reception from the Marlins and the Miami VA, lunch and tour of Marlins park.

Friday, January 11, 2013: Warriors travel from Miami to Key Largo and ride through the Florida Keys. Route map available upon request.
8:30 a.m. Departure from VFW at Mile Marker 102 to Islamorada
12:15 p.m. Departure for ride across 7 mile bridge
2:15 p.m. Warriors arrive at Dolphin Research Center for Warrior swim with the dolphins
8-9 p.m. Dinner Hosted by the Rusty Anchor 5510 3rd Ave, Key West, FL.

Saturday, January 12, 2013: 4-5:30 p.m. Dinner at Margaritaville Cafe – Duvall Street, Key West

Sunday, January 13, 2013: Ride through historic Key West starting after breakfast at Coast Guard station and departure from Naval Air Station Boca Chica.
7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. VIP breakfast for cyclists
11:30 a.m. Ride finish and ceremony at Truman Annex Mole USCGC INGHAM dock area. After reception and lunch the Warriors will join local supporters for a historical military cycling tour of Key West at 1pm.

Soldier Ride is a program of Wounded Warrior Project that provides key rehabilitation opportunities for wounded warriors and raises public awareness for those that have been severely injured during the current conflicts.Wounded Warrior Project is an apolitical, nonprofit organization whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors. WWP offers services and programs like benefits and career counseling, advocacy initiatives and combat stress seminars to aid in the transition from hospital bed to an independent, productive life. All participants with a disability or missing a limb or limbs are provided the adaptive equipment they need to cycle.

Intro to Improv Workshop with Carlos Rivera 1/13/13

Intro to Improv Workshop with Carlos Rivera
theatreSunday, 1/13/2013, 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
The Deering Estate
16701 SW 72 Avenue
Miami  FL  33157
More Info

Cost: $12

Ages 18 and Over; Visitor Center Exhibit Room

Instructor: Carlos Rivera

Learn the basics of improvisational theater (acting) in a small, relaxed improv class. Classes are taught through classic theater warm-ups, exercises, and games. The games make learning improv fun and easy. Each game works on skills that will make you more comfortable and focused. In the process of playing these simple, yet powerful games you’ll find yourself laughing and having fun. No prior experience is necessary. The games will unleash your innate acting ability. Explore skills like creative thinking, self-confidence, listening, brainstorming, teamwork, empathy and communication while having loads of fun and laughs. Workshop size is limited to provide each student more personal attention.

Carlos Rivera is a 13-year veteran of the South Florida improv scene and a Mainstage Cast Member at the Just The Funny Theater & Training Center. In addition to performing, Carlos also serves as an improv & sketch instructor and one of the managing directors. Carlos has received coaching from some of the countries top improvisors and has attended intensives & master workshops at major improv institutions including Second City in Chicago & the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) in NYC. Carlos’ improv team has performed at several major improv events including the Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Gainseville, Sarasota, and Miami Improv Festival, as well as the Del Close Marathon at UCB. Carlos has also performed in several local plays including "Don’t Dress for Dinner", "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged)", a British Panto retelling of "Cinderella", as well as local murder mystery productions.

The Theatre Lab at the Deering Estate at Cutler is a performance art series and residency opportunity developed in partnership with the Theatre League of South Florida. Through monthly theater performances, workshops and lectures held at the Deering Estate at Cutler, these diverse theatrical opportunities will attract new audiences to this art form, provide rare professional development opportunities for actors and writers and test innovative approaches to theory and practice. Traditional as well as emerging performances that fit within the scale and setting of the historic Estate are welcomed and encouraged. Theatre Lab ultimately hopes to contribute to a meaningful and engaging cultural dialogue between artists and their audiences across the landscape of South Florida.

All programs are offered as a SUNDAY Matinee performance beginning at 2:30 (meet the artist reception at 2:00) in the Estate’s Visitor Center Exhibit Hall and will generally conclude at 3:30/4:00 pm. Cost: $12 and includes entrance to the Estate.

Ultimate Miami Food Truck Competition at Magic City Casino

Food Truck Culinary Mastery on Display at Magic City Casino

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

There are few better ways to start off the New Year then forsaking your weight loss resolutions and devouring exquisite food like a starving Rwandan.  This past Saturday, January 5th we were granted this opportunity courtesy of Magic City Casino and Ultimate Miami. The Ultimate Miami Food Truck Battle was the third part of a seven part series held by Ultimate Miami.  Previous events include Ultimate Miami Band and Ultimate Miami Bartender. Upcoming events will include Ultimate Miami Voice, Ultimate Miami Comedian, Ultimate Miami Dessert and Ultimate Miami DJ.

We attended their most recent event Ultimate Miami Food Truck throw down … unfortunately Bobby Flay was absent ;)  Magic City Casino hosted the event on their grounds while these trucks competed for a $5,000 prize.  Eight finalists remained after previously held preliminary rounds to compete on this glorious, cool crisp evening. The finalists were B.C. Tacos, Crazydilla, Cuban Cube, Food Junkies on Wheels, Ms. Cheezious, Palate Party, Che Grill and The Healthnut on Wheels.  The contest was setup so that a truck would be matched up against another truck each serving one chicken dish. Tickets for the Ultimate Miami Food Truck competition were $40 and include two meals from competing trucks, a beverage and 25 percent off all eight food trucks after the competition. The patrons who bought tickets for the event were split in two groups. They participated and voted as audience judges in two of the four rounds for their favorite dish.  The four winners of this round advanced to the finals were they each made a different dish of their choosing. Only the three panel judges were able to taste and deem a victor.

The first battle of the night pitted B.C. Tacos vs. Crazydilla. BC prevailed with their scrumptious chicken and fried avocado balls soft taco over Crazydilla’s tasty grilled chicken crispy tortilla.

Crazydilla's Mexidilla
Crazydilla’s Mexidilla
B.C. Taco's Chicken and Friend Avocado Taco
B.C. Taco’s Chicken and Friend Avocado Taco

The second battle had Cuban Cube dueling with Food Junkies on Wheels. The Cubans won this battle with their take on a classic Peruvian cuasa, shredded chicken on top of a mashed yellow potato dumpling mixed with key lime, onion, chili and oil, which was aesthetically beautiful but in our humble opinion was clearly not the better dish. The Junkies served up the BEST MOTHERF**KING fried chicken we have EVER tasted with red velvet waffles and a sweet cream drizzle. The Junkies employ some sort of sweet salt on this perfectly cooked crispy yet juicy chicken.  One bite will overload your brain with more dopamine then a naughty tryst with your favorite movie star.  We literally told the endearing, jubilant Food Junkies spokesperson, that we were going to call the cops on him for putting crack in his chicken.  This was easily the best dish of the night and possibly, the best fried dish of our lives.

DSCN3783
Cuban Cube’s Chicken Causa
DSCN3785
Food Junkies Fried Chicken and Red Velvet Waffles. The picture does NOT do them justice.

The third battle brought Palate Party sparring against The Healthnut on Wheels. The Healthnut is a truck that promotes a healthier alternative to food truck cuisine and cooks in a paleo style, mimicking the diet of our cavemen ancestors.  They utilize only coconut or extra virgin olive oil with meat, fish and veggies and entirely steer clear of processed foods. They served up a delightful grilled chicken lettuce wrap with grilled veggies. The Palate Party run by the vivacious and hysterical Chef Robyn Almodovar offered up a scrumptious, fiery fried chicken wing with maple syrup laced, Belgian waffles. Chef Robyn described her dish as “more delicious then a face f**k” and, although I cannot speak from experience, I would tend to believe her.  Chef Robyn tried to steer the crowd her way by enthusiastically cheering for her dish and even dancing on top her truck like a samba swaying and gyrating, but in the end the Caveman conquered.

This was soooo yummy!
Palate Party’s Chicken and Waffles
Health Nut On Wheels Paelothic Chicken, Veggies and Avocado.
Health Nut On Wheels Paelothic Chicken, Veggies and Avocado.

The final first round had Che Grill brawling it out with the famous Ms. Cheezious. Che served a Polla Matahambre, a beautifully gourmet grilled stuffed chicken breast and with gulf sauce against Ms. Cheezious’ shredded grilled chicken, jalapeno, corn, grill cheese on sourdough. Although they did not serve up its famous blue cheese and bacon sandwich, Ms. Cheezious triumphed.

Che Grill's Pollo Matahambre and Potatoes
Che Grill’s Pollo Matahambre and Potatoes
Ms. Cheezious Grilled Cheese with Chicken and Corn on Sourdough
Ms. Cheezious Grilled Cheese with Chicken and Corn on Sourdough with a delicous slaw on the side.

The Championship round brought out the best in the remaining four contenders. Each had 20 minutes to cook up their  succulent entries. Cuban Cube cooked up a fried Spanish sweet potato stuffed with lamb shank and a side of spicy slaw. B.C. Taco served a slow braised brisket with crispy plantains, black beans, cilantro and cheese. Ms. Cheezious brought out a braised pork belly, kimchee and cheddar sandwich with five-spice potato chips while Healthnut offered up a wild caught Alaskan salmon with soy maple glaze over sautéed spinach.

The final offering from Cuban Cube
The final offering from Cuban Cube
The final offering from Ms. Cheezious
The final offering from Ms. Cheezious
The final offering from B.C. Tacos
The final offering from B.C. Tacos
DSCN3841
The salmon was still in process when we came around and they got done just in time to deliver them to the judges. Looked great from here…

Since we were not “official judges” yet, we were not able to taste any of these culinary extravaganzas, yet they all looked and smelled superb.  In the end, The Healthnut took home the prize for their healthy paleo sweet Alaskan salmon. The Health Nut on Wheels truck was visibly ecstatic and emotional after their victory, jumping, smiling, and screaming. One member pointed up to the sky and gave thanks.  It was a perfect smile-inducing image to conclude this festive, epicurean evening.

DSCN3886
Winner Miguel Kristaly of Health Nut on Wheels

“Ultimate Miami, LLC was formed to promote, through competition, Miami’s outstanding eclectic composition of talent in various subsets in the fields of music and culinary arts.” find out more at www.TheUltimateMiami.com

Photo Credit: Daniella Veras

MANO Fine Art presents Inspired by Red 1/19/13

MANO Fine Art presents Inspired by Red
Saturday, 01/19/2013, 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Closing-Reception-with-detail-of-Monique-Lassooij-cropped-for-fb-without-footerMANO Fine Art Project Space
4225 SW 75 Ave (2nd Flr),
Mimai, Florida 33155
Facebook Link

Red is strong and confident. Red is exciting and sexy. Red is the color of life. MANO Fine Art celebrates the color red with an exhibition that is imbued with the cultural relevance of the color red. Twelve artists celebrate the spectacular and awe-inspiring color with contemporary interpretations. In some works it is used literally to represent things that are naturally red, in others it embodies a metaphor. However, it is the underlying emotional qualities of the color itself that dominates the extent of the exhibition which includes mix medium, painting, sculpture and a live demonstration of body art.

Participating Artists include: Eva Avila, Luis Berros, Toa Castellanos, Chenco, Daniel Garcia, Patricia Gomez, Antonio Guerrero, Josepo, Monique Lassooij, MANO, George Rodez and Wilson.

The show will be open Saturday, January 19 from 7-10 pm, during the Bird Road Art Walk or by appointment through February 2.

MANO Fine Art is located at 4225 SW 75 Ave, Miami 33155 in the Bird Road Art District. For additional information please contact 305.467.6819 or visit www.manofineart.com.

Cycle For Survival 2013 2/2/13

Cycle For Survival 2013
Saturday, 02/02/2013, 07:00 am – 12:00 pm
Cycle2013Equinox Coral Gables
370 San Lorenzo Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33146
Webpage Link

Make a difference in the fight against cancer by registering to ride with your friends and family in Cycle for Survival, a nationwide indoor team cycling event that is driving much needed research into rare cancers, including pancreatic cancer, brain cancer and pediatric cancers, at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Teams register to ride for a four hour shift, with a maximum of 8 riders per bike. Teams may register multiple bikes. The event also features complimentary yoga classes, massage therapy and children’s activities.

The nation’s oldest and largest, private cancer research and treatment institution, Memorial Sloan-Kettering treats more than 400 different types of cancer, and is leading advances in cancer research and treatments, particularly into the rarest forms of the disease, benefitting patients worldwide.

Visit www.cycleforsurvival.org to register your team or make a donation.

MiaSci’s Fabulous First Friday 1/4/13

MiaSci’s Fabulous First Friday
Friday, January 4th
Miami Science Museum
3280 South Miami Avenue
Miami, FL 33129

Join us for an evening of laser lights, stars, and more.

Free Planetarium Star Show (7:00pm) and rooftop observatory viewing
(8:00pm – 10pm, weather permitting.)

Later in the evening, check out Miami Science Museum’s Famous Laser Shows in the Planetarium.

Laser Shows
8:00pm “Pop” (Family Laser Show)
9:00pm Best of the Beatles
10:00pm Best of Pink Floyd
11:00pm Led Zeppelin
Midnight Bob Marley

Laser Show Admission: $4.00 children – $8.00 adults

Check out our Activity Room for kids – a fun alternative for your little ones! Swing by the Space Gallery for a few hands-on activities and demonstrations! Kids ages 3 and up. (8:00pm-9:00pm)
For more information, call: 305-646-4234          

Humberto Castro Opening Reception at One Datran Center 1/17/12

Humberto Castro  Opening Reception
 Transatlantico 2012 ink and oil on Fabriano paper 42 x 59_VRJan. 17, 5:30-7:30PM
One Datran Center
9130 South Dadeland Boulevard
Miami, FL 33156

Humberto Castro: Drawings and Paintings

Oxenberg Fine Art is proud to partner with the Datran Center to present a solo exhibition featuring drawings and paintings by the 1980s generation Cuban artist Humberto Castro.

For more information on the artist, please visit:
http://www.oxenbergart.com/humberto-castro/

image: Humberto Castro, Transatlantico (Transatlantic) 42 x 59 inches, Ink and oil on fabriano paper

Jazz Roots: Jazz and the Philharmonic 1/11/13

Jazz Roots: Jazz and the Philharmonic, a collaboration starring Bobby McFerrin, Chick Corea, Terence Blanchard and many more jazz and classical stars
 jazzJanuary 11, 2013 at 8:30 p.m.
John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall
The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
of Miami-Dade County, Inc.
1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami FL 33132
Administrative Offices (786) 468-2000
Box Office (305) 949-6722
www.arshtcenter.org
Tickets: $25 – $150
Purchase Tickets Here!

A Collaboration Between the Adrienne Arsht Center, the U of M Frost School of Music, and the National YoungArts Foundation

Featuring the Frost School Of Music’s Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra, and Youngarts All-Star Alumni Including

Today’s Foremost Jazz and Classical Artists:
Bobby Mcferrin
Chick Corea
Dave Grusin
Mark O’connor
Terence Blanchard
Eric Owens
Shelly Berg
Elizabeth Roe
Hosted by Modern Dance Icon, Broadway Veteran
and YoungArts Alumnus Desmond Richardson

Jazz Roots: A Larry Rosen Jazz Series is presented by TotalBank, a subsidiary of Banco Popular Espanol, S.A.; WPBT Channel 2, WLRN 91.3 FM are media sponsors of JAZZ ROOTS. The Jazz Roots series is also sponsored in part by Steinway & Sons, the official piano of the Adrienne Arsht Center.

Studio 54 NYE at The Catalina Hotel with Spam All Stars 12/31/12

Studio 54 NYE at The Catalina Hotel with Spam All Stars!
studio 54The Catalina Hotel
1732 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach, Florida
Buy Tickets Now

Go back to the days of Studio 54 at the world-famous Catalina. Relive the nights of Studio 54 as The Catalina Hotel re-creates a lavish NYE experience unlike any other!

The Catalina Hotel, alongside Miami nightlife legend Gerry Kelly, Present a Studio 54 New Years Eve Extravaganza! Spend your New Years Eve at our South Beach hotspot, and enjoy a 4-hour premium open bar, decadent dinner, and endless entertainment!

Includes:
Premium Open Bar from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m
Lavish Dinner Buffet
Passed Hors D’oeuvres
Gourmet Sushi & Raw Bar
Access to all Venues at the Catalina
Over 8 Bars Throughout the Venue
Disco Dance Room with LED Dance Floor
Starlit Doorset Rooftop
Complimentary Champagne Toast & Party Favors
Music by The Spam Allstars

Ultimate Miami Food Truck Competition with Sean Kingston and Shaggy Live 1/5/13

Ultimate Miami Food Truck Competition with Sean Kingston and Shaggy Live
Saturday, January 5, 2013 at 7pm
Magic City Casino.
450 NW 37 Avenue
Miami, FL

Ultimate Miami, LLC, creator of Miami’s talent competitions showcasing local rising stars in the fields of mixology, entertainment and culinary arts, has unveiled the names of the eight finalists participating in the Ultimate Miami Food Truck competition. The finalists will compete for a cash prize of $5,000 and the title of the Ultimate Miami Food Truck. Plus, pop-reggae artist Sean Kingston and Grammy Award winner Shaggy will perform at 9pm at the Magic City Amphitheater.
   
“We’re thrilled to host eight of Miami’s all-star food trucks as they battle each other for the title of the Ultimate Miami Food Truck and a cash prize of $5,000. Also, we’ll have live performances from Sean Kingston and Shaggy at 9pm that will be sure to get the crowd on their feet,” said Scott Savin, Chief Operating Officer of Magic City Casino. “The audience is in for an amazing night as they taste delicious food from Miami’s finest food trucks and dance to fun-loving music from Sean Kingston and Shaggy!”

The eight finalists for the Ultimate Miami Food Truck competition are:
BC Tacos  Ù   Che Grill  Ù   Crazydilla  Ù   Cuban Cube  Ù   Food Junkie on Wheels
Ms. Cheezious  Ù   Palate Party  Ù   The Healthnut on Wheels

The culinary showdown will consist of two rounds of competition that will determine Miami’s Ultimate Food Truck. The first round will involve attendees tasting two dishes from competing food trucks and voting for their favorite. Then, four food trucks will advance to the next round, where they will be judged. In the final round, the select finalists will come in front of a panel of judges that include Where Magazine South Florida editor, Aurora Rodriguez, and radio personality and co-host of 610AM WIOD’s South Florida’s First News, Manny Munoz. The judges will make the final decision in crowning the Ultimate Miami Food Truck.

Musical artist Sean Kingston and Grammy Award winner Shaggy will perform immediately following the competition at the Magic City Amphitheater. Sean Kingston is a Miami born pop-reggae star with Jamaican roots. His first demo ultimately led to the release of a debut album, which sold more than a million copies worldwide and was responsible for three back-to-back Top 10 single hits on the Billboard charts. His best known hits include “Beautiful Girls” and “Fire Burning.” To date, Kingston has sold more than 12.5 million tracks.

Shaggy is among the few reggae artists to top the album and pop singles charts, managing to sustain a career over the course of several successful albums with hits including, “Boombastic” and “It Wasn’t Me.” His album, Boombastic, went platinum, nearly reaching the Billboard R&B Top 10 and spent a full year at the top of Billboard’s reggae album chart also earning him a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album.
 
Upcoming Ultimate Miami Competitions:
Ultimate Miami Voice – March 2, 2013; Qualifying Dates around South Florida: Seven Seas – January 8, 2013 and Sunset Tavern – January 14, 2013
Ultimate Miami Comedian – May 3, 2013; Qualifying Open Mic Nights at Magic City Casino:  March 22, 2013 and April 5, 2013
Ultimate Miami Dessert – May 4, 2013; Taking entries starting February 4, 2013
Ultimate Miami DJ – July 13, 2013; Taking entries starting April 8, 2013

Tickets for the Ultimate Miami Food Truck competition are $40 and include two meals from competing trucks, a beverage and 25% off all eight food trucks after the competition. Additional ticket packages are available and include admission to the Ultimate Miami Food Truck competition and premium seating for the Sean Kingston and Shaggy concert. Tickets may be purchased at www.theultimatemiami.com or by calling 305-460-6579. Tickets for the Sean Kingston and Shaggy concert may be purchased at www.magiccitycasino.com.

Dine with the Dolphins Valentines experience at Miami Seaquarium 2/14/13

Dine with the Dolphins Valentines experience at Miami Seaquarium
February 14, 2013 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Miami Seaquarium
4400 Rickenbacker Causeway
Key Biscayne, FL 33149

“Dine with the Dolphins” at Miami Seaquarium offers couples looking for a unique yet memorable Valentine’s Day experience, the opportunity to enjoy a delicious candlelight dinner under the stars in the company of some very special dolphins.  From 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., this Valentine’s Day, Miami Seaquarium invites sweethearts to take a break from the ordinary and enjoy their Valentine’s Day Dinner overlooking the dolphins at Dolphin Harbor.  And as an added bonus to the spectacular four course dinner that will be featured for only $398 plus tax, the unique Valentine’s Day package includes two Sea Trek Reef Encounter and Dolphin Odyssey experience certificates, plus two annual passes to the park – a value of $695.  The Sea Trek and Dolphin Odyssey gift certificates are good for up to one year from the time of purchase, while the annual passes are good until December 31, 2013.  Space is limited.  Reservations will be taken on a first come, first serve basis. To make reservations call 305-365-2501.
 
“If you are looking for an exceptional Valentine’s Day experience, then this is one of the best surprises that will definitely be a memorable occasion that you and your Valentine won’t soon forget,” commented Andrew Hertz, General Manager at Miami Seaquarium.  “ Our ‘Dine with the Dolphins’ package provides you and your sweetheart the opportunity to celebrate throughout the year starting with a fabulous dinner on Valentine’s Day followed up with two unforgettable animal encounters and the opportunity to visit Miami Seaquarium all through the year.”
 
Unveiled at Miami Seaquarium in November 2011, the Sea Trek Reef Encounter is a helmet diving experience that allows guests to become one with the park’s reef aquarium, while moving in ethereal slow motion in a near zero gravity diving system.  Sea Trekking, developed by Sub Sea Systems, Inc. can be experienced by non-divers, ages 10 and above – no certification or swimming skills are necessary.  In the magnificent Reef Aquarium at Miami Seaquarium participants may Sea Trek as deep as 15 feet under the sea. 
 
Dolphin Odyssey is a one and a half hour experience, which includes feeding, touching and learning about these magnificent animals plus the opportunity for a deep-water interaction with a dolphin.
 
Miami Seaquarium, South Florida’s most popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the public 365 days a year. The park provides visitors with a greater understanding and appreciation for marine life through shows, presentations and exhibits. More information on Miami Seaquarium is available at www.miamiseaquarium.com.
 
Miami Seaquarium is an accredited member of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, an international organization committed to the care and conservation of marine mammals. Accreditation by the Alliance means this facility meets or exceeds all the standards of excellence for marine mammal care, husbandry, conservation and education.

Art and Wine Miami New year party 1/12/13

Art and Wine Miami New year party
Saturday, 01/12/2013, 08:00 pm – 01:00 am
Cubaocho Art and Research Center
1465 S.W. 8 St.,
Miami, Florida 33135
Webpage Link

Art and Wine Miami is kicking off the New Year with a party.Join us at Cuba Ocho to help paint a mural,drink wine and celebrate with live music.
$15. admission includes painting materials and the first glass of wine.

Miami Science Museum Laser Fest Weekend 12/28/12-12/29/12

Miami Science Museum Laser Fest Weekend
miasciFriday, Dec. 28 & Saturday, Dec. 29
Miami Science Museum
3280 South Miami Avenue
Miami, FL 33129
Laser Show Admission: $8 per adult; $4 per child
www.miamisci.org

The Museum’s Laser Fest Weekend is an enjoyable weekend of laser lights, stars and more. Laser show themes are:
 
Friday, Dec. 28
8 p.m.: "Pop" Family Laser Show
9 p.m.: The Beatles: Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
10 p.m.: Jimi Hendrix
11 p.m.: Radiohead
Midnight: Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
 
Saturday, Dec. 29
8 p.m.: "Pop" Family Laser Show
9 p.m.: Best of the Beatles
10 p.m.: Led Zeppelin
11 p.m.: Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
Midnight: Radiohead

Orchid – Friday, December 28th 12/28/12

Orchid – Friday, December 28th
Friday, 12/28/2012, 07:30 pm – 09:00 pm
1.1.ORCHIDFlyer2The Pleasure Garden
299 NE 38th street ,
Miami, Florida 33137
Buy Tickets Link

SPECIAL EVENT – FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28th – ORCHID: an invitation to a unique theatrical installation. ORCHID is a dream world of song, dance, glamour, burlesque, aerial acrobatics and variety arts set inside a seductively surreal Pleasure Garden in the design district. Use George Coronado’s promo code BEAT for discounted ticket prices. It will be an amazing night of cocktails, over the top production and entertainment!

Normal Price: $79

With the code BEAT: $49 dollars. Includes ORCHID show plus a complimentary cocktail

6pm to 7:30 pm – Cocktails and dinner available

7:30 pm – ORCHID show

Address: THE PLEASURE GARDEN – 299 NE 38th street Miami, FL 33137 (38th Street and Biscayne Boulevard)

To buy tickets, click on

http://www.orchidtheshow.com/

Use my discount code: BEAT

Contact me for further information,
Rick Morgan
rickmorganrrt@live.com
(786) 543 9286 cell/text
www.facebook.com/allforloverick

Midnight at Cirque Du Monde New Year’s Eve 2013 12/31/12

“Midnight at Cirque Du Monde” New Year’s Eve 2013
Monday, 12/31/2012, 08:00 pm – 05:00 am
548570_536054789739471_1082156904_nSafi Restaurant & Gourmet Market
20 Biscayne Blvd.,
Miami, Florida 33132
Webpage Link

Here’s to the friendships. To the tales we’ve told. To the people we’ve met. To the memories we’ve created.

Join Freedom Concierge Services and BP Media and Partners for the finale event.

Entice, Enrich and Excite your senses in a world of Cirque wonders.

Bring in 2013 in absolute elegance at Safi Restaurant & Gourmet Market in the heart of Miami.

Come and celebrate the New Year in this beautiful 14,000 square ft venue and watch the fireworks and the Orange Drop in style.

Sounds by legendary DJ, Eddie Ayala

Photographs by Bob Quesada from wine tasting at XIXON on 12/19/12

You put together about thirty four of the best Spanish wines, serve them in the best Spanish restaurant, bring in aged Manchego cheese, add Jamón Ibérico-“A gastronomic Jewel” (more on that in a minute),  get the Web City Girls to promote it …and you end up with: “Navidad a la Española” or “Christmas Spanish Style”.

Xixón  at 2101 Coral Way in Miami, was the place to be this past Wednesday as a few hundred people gathered to celebrate the Holidays by participating in a wine tasting incorporating live music,social media, raffles, contests and giveaways.

The restaurant, named after the Asturias region of Spain called Gijón, also offered Jamón Ibérico which is ham, made from the black footed, free range, acorn fed pig from the Salamanca region of Spain. The ham is cured for up to 48 months. The flavor is indescribable. If you thought that ham had too much cholesterol, consider this: Because of the pig’s diet of acorns, much of the fat is oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid that has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. Just try it.

If it is any indication of just how good this party was, let’s just say that twitter is still buzzing 24 hours after the event.

As I was enjoying the evening festivities, sampling an awesome Ribera del Duero Reserva, Lidia Hernandez who does the PR for the restaurant came by smiled and said in Spanish: ”…well…you can’t complaint… great wine, great cheese and great ham…” to which I answered: “ You are right…from here to heaven…” then I remembered the rumor: the world ends this Friday… hmmm I better eat some more and get some more wine… just in case.

For a list of the wines please scroll past the photos.

If you cannot see the images please click on post title.

www.bobquesada.com

fb: Bob Quesada Photographer

To order wines:  info@xixoncafe.com

D.O. RIOJA

Marques de legarda Cza.2008                      Marques de Legarda Rva.2007    Marques de Legarda Gran Rva.

 

D.O. BIERZO

Tres Racimos 2007                                         Viña de Canes Crianza 2003

 

D.O. RIBERA DEL DUERO

PAGO DE LOS CAPELLANES

Joven Roble                     Crianza 2009         Reserva 2008       Nogal 2005           Picon 2005            Magnum

D.O. CAVA

Torello Brut Rva.              Torello Rose Rva.

 

D.O. RIBERA DEL DUERO

CONDE DE SIRUELA

Riberal Joven 2011          Barrica 2010                 Crianza 2007                Reserva 2006               Magnum

D.O. TORO

Muruve  Joven 2010         Muruve  Crza.  2009         Muruve  Rva.   2008

 

D.O. COSTERS DEL SEGRE

Ekam 2011 Riesling                        Taleia 2011 Sou.Blnc       Quest 2010 Cabrnt

D.O. MONTSANT

Faunus 2010                 Nuvol Blanco 2011

 

D.O. PRIORAT

Flors del Priorat 2011      Gotes 2010           Negre de Negres         Somni  2009       Tros de Clos 2010

Tros Negre 2010       Trossos Sants 2010    Tros Blanc 2009

 

30% discount per bottle

Salute To Vienna New Year’s Concert 12/30/12

Salute To Vienna New Year’s Concert
viennaDecember 30 @ 7pm
Knight Concert Hall
Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
1300 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL 33132
Click Here For Tickets
Or call 305-949-6722 today!

Party Like It’s 1899!
The Strauss Symphony of America
András Deák, conductor (Budapest)
Marcela Cerno, soprano (Vienna)
Eduardo Aladrén, tenor (Madrid)
Dancers from Vienna Imperial Ballet

A brilliant new cast of over 75 musicians, stellar European singers and dancers inspire and delight with a lighthearted blend of charming Viennese favorites, featuring famous Strauss waltzes, polkas and operetta excerpts from Die Fledermaus, The Merry Widow and more.
A glorious way to celebrate the new year!

Augusto Soledade Brazzdance 2/8/13-2/9/13

Augusto Soledade Brazzdance
BrazzdanceFebruary 8 & 9
Carnival Studio Theater
Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
1300 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL 33132

Click Here For Tickets
Or call 305-949-6722 today!

“A combination of wildness and precision!” The Miami Herald
An intoxicating blend of Argentine tango and American hip-hop makes up the DNA of BrazzDance’s entertaining, high-energy Cordel, the newest work by artistic director Augusto Soledade. The company’s triumphant return to the Carnival Studio Theater also features Kayala, which boasts the company’s sizzling trademark fusion of irresistible African rhythms and abundant Brazilian sensuality.

Choreographer Augusto Soledade is a native Brazilian based in Miami. A nationally recognized choreographer and dance scholar, Soledade is the recipient of the 2012 State of Florida Individual Artist Fellowship, the prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship Award in 2008 and Dance Miami Choreographer Fellowship in 2007, 2009, 2011 and 2012. Soledade is a recent winner of the 2012 Knight Arts Challenge in support of the Miami Dance Mecca Project.

Miami Rescue Mission/Broward Outreach Center Host Christmas Celebration to benefit Homeless and Needy 12/21/12

Miami Rescue Mission/Broward Outreach Center Host Christmas Celebration to benefit Homeless and Needy
Friday, December 21, 2012. (See times below)
Miami Rescue Mission
2020 NW 1st Avenue Miami, FL 33127
Broward Outreach Center Hollywood
2056 Scott Street Hollywood, FL 33020
Broward Outreach Center Pompano
1700 Blount Road Pompano Beach, FL 33069

Miami Rescue Mission – Beginning at 9:30 AM, group and individual volunteers will start the day by providing coffee, fruit and pastries for attendees. ARAMARK, State Farm, The Hackett Group and other organizations have helped supply and collect toys for the needy children of South Florida. The Christmas event will last from 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon with entertainment including the Regeneration Singers (a group of the formerly homeless) as well as performances from various local churches and entertainment groups. The Christmas meal is to be served at 11:00 AM as the street will be blocked off to accommodate the nearly 3,000 homeless and needy families expected to attend on the Miami campus.
 
Broward Outreach Center: Hollywood – Beginning at 10:00 AM, the Christmas Celebration will begin with dozens of volunteers helping celebrate with formerly homeless men, women and children. Starting at 11:00 AM a delicious lunch will be served by wonderful volunteers. Santa will arrive around noon with special deliveries for everyone. Some of the great give-a-ways and toys benefitting the formerly homeless were donated by Saint Bonaventure Catholic Church, Potential Church and many individual donors.
 
Broward Outreach Center: Pompano – Beginning at 3:00 PM, dozens of individual volunteers, and Broward College – Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society will decorate and Santa Claus will help give over 200 gifts to the needy children in attendance. All adults will receive a Hope Tote bags filled with hygiene products and clothes. A Christmas feast Hosted by Whole Foods Market will be served at 4:30 PM, with wonderful music and entertainment.

Baptist Health Presents 42nd Annual Orange Bowl Prayer Breakfast featuring Sammie Smith 12/29/12

Baptist Health Presents 42nd Annual Orange Bowl Prayer Breakfast featuring Sammie Smith
Saturday, December 29th , 7:30 a.m.
Jungle Island
1111 Parrot Jungle Trail
Miami, FL 33132

Tickets for the Baptist Health Orange Bowl Prayer Breakfast are $30 each or $500 to sponsor a table of 10. The event is open to the public. For ticket information, call 305-445-1600. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Join the Fellowship of Christian Athletes as they celebrate athletes, coaches and participating communities at the 42nd annual Orange Bowl Prayer Breakfast.  Baptist Health South Florida once again will sponsor the prayer breakfast.  This year’s breakfast includes a raffle that features exclusive travel and leisure prizes.  The breakfast will be emceed by former South Florida television sportscaster Khambrel Marshal and will feature guest speaker, Sammie Smith.

Sammie Smith was born and raised in Central Florida, where he fell in love with football at an early age. While playing at Apopka High School, he began a legendary football career and was recruited by Florida State University under Coach Bobby Bowden. At FSU, he demonstrated his extraordinary talents as a running back and played with football great, Deion Sanders. Smith was drafted in the first round by the Miami Dolphins under Coach Don Shula. As a running back with the Dolphins, he played with Dan Marino and later went on to play for the Denver Broncos with Coach Dan Reeves and John Elway. His NFL career ended when he was injured, and Smith retired from the game he loved. Following his retirement from football, he made a bad decision that landed him in federal prison, where he served several years. There he deepened his faith and accepted his calling to ministry after being released in 2001. For more than a decade, he has been speaking publicly about his experiences and working with student athletes through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He currently lives in Lake County, Florida, with his wife, Shalonda, and their children.

Baptist Health South Florida is the largest faith-based, not-for-profit healthcare organization in the region. Baptist Health includes Baptist Hospital, South Miami Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, West Kendall Baptist Hospital, Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute, and Baptist Outpatient Services. Baptist Health Foundation, the organization’s fundraising arm, supports services at all hospitals and facilities affiliated with Baptist Health. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net and connect with BaptistHealthSF on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. 

Bird Road Art Walk-The Hioliday edition 12/15/12

Bird Road Art Walk-The Hioliday edition
Saturday, 12/15/2012, 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
BRAD-2012-Holiday-editionBird Road Art District
The Bird Road Art District is conveniently located just off of the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) and Bird Road (SW 40th Street). The majority of the studios are located off of SW 75 Ave & SW 74 Ave.,
4229 SW 75 Ave, Florida 33155
Facebook Link

Join art enthusiasts and collectors for the holiday edition of the Bird Road Art Walk, on Saturday, December 15th, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm, for an evening of live demonstrations, glass blowing, sculpture, ceramics, stained glass, drawing, painting, photography, installations, performance art, spoken word, poetry, dance, music and meet the artists who create them. This event is free and open to the public so invite your friends and family to join us.

Start your Art Walk at any of the participating venues. Enjoy ample free parking and a free shuttle service that loops continuously throughout the district stopping at each participating artists’ studio and gallery.

Click here for listing: http://www.thebirdroadartdistrict.com/Bird-Road-Art-Walk.html

Free Gift Wrapping at Dadeland, Sunset Place and The Falls 12/15/12-12/24/12

Free Gift Wrapping at Dadeland, Sunset Place & The Falls
Sunday, 12/15/2012 – 12/24/2012, 10:00 am –
The Falls
The Falls Mall,
8888 SW 136 St., Florida Miami
Webpage Link

Starting December 15th, volunteers from Christ Fellowship (CF) church in Miami will be offering shoppers at The Falls, Dadeland and Sunset Place free gift wrapping this holiday season. This is the X consecutive year CF volunteers have provided shoppers with free gift wrapping at local malls.

“Christ Fellowship is passionate about reaching beyond our church walls,” said Missions Director, Jorge Molina. “Whether we are putting up hurricane shutters for our elderly neighbors, donating Thanksgiving baskets to families in need, providing free dental services to the under resourced in our community, or simply wrapping gifts for holiday shoppers in the mall – we are passionate about serving our community!”

Ayikodans 25th Anniversary Season 2/15/13-2/17/13

Ayikodans 25th Anniversary Season
AyikodansFebruary 15-17
Carnival Studio Theater (in the Ziff Ballet Opera House)
1300 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL 33132

Member On Sale: Now!
Public On Sale: December 17
Buy Tickets Online
Or call 305-949-6722 today!

Ayikodans premiered at the Arsht Center after the Center’s President & CEO John Richard, alongside prominent community leaders, joined forces to save the dance troupe following the devastation of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Since then, the stunning ensemble, based out of Port Au Prince, has received glowing international media attention. Most notably, founder/artistic director Jeanguy Saintus was invited by Lincoln Center to stage a piece for its prestigious Out of Doors festival, a performance which earned Saintus high praise from The New York Times.

In a triumphant celebration of its 25th Anniversary season, Ayikodans – including the full company of dancers, drummers, and vocalists – returns to their Miami family and the Arsht Center with an all-new program for Miami audiences.

The Nutcracker, A Magical New Play at Carnival Studio Theater through 12/30/12

The Nutcracker, A Magical New Play
Through December 30, 2012
nutcrackerCarnival Studio Theater
The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
1300 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL
Buy Tickets Online

This fantastical expansion of a holiday classic is not a ballet, but rather a play about one loving family’s recovery from a terrible and surprising loss. Based on the original E.T.A. Hoffmann story, the play centers on young Clara’s journey to save Christmas and bring her broken family back together—making this production a splendidly empowering Christmas story and a wholly different take on the classic tale! This contemporary holiday theater piece weaves together riveting dialogue, astonishing puppetry, original songs and spellbinding spectacle to tell a heartwarming, darkly moving story of magic and hope.

Day After Tomorrow Project 12/22/12

Day After Tomorrow Project
dayaftertomorrowSaturday, December 22, 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Villa 221
221 NE 17th Street
Miami, FL 33132

Presale tickets starting at $20 before December 15!
www.wanttickets.com/DAT

Day After Tomorrow Project Aims to Celebrate Life, Music and Charity at their First Annual Event Benefiting Toys for Tots on December 22, 2012 in a Holiday Day + Night Festival Boasting Twenty Musical Acts
 
Mayans predicted the world would end on December 21, 2012. However, the Day After Tomorrow Project, produced by Two J’s, predicts we will live to see the end of a myth and the beginning of a new yearly holiday tradition. The Toys for Tots benefit event taking place on Saturday, December 22, 2012 at Villa 221 will celebrate life with live music, celebrity DJ sets, holiday-inspired costume contests, food and drinks in a day-long festive environment kicking off at 2 p.m. and going strong through the night.
 
Guests will enjoy DJ sets by the electronic duo, The White Panda as well as moombathon duo direct from NYC, Sazon Booya. The impressive lineup includes tweny acts including Miami’s own Problem Kids who recently opened for Rakim’s Miami show and are quickly becoming hip-hop heavy hitters.
 
All guests are asked to bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots to receive a free drink as part of the toy drive initiative. In addition, sponsors such as Shots Miami will offer complimentary shots from 2 to 4 p.m. Nestor Miranda Collection will also provide complimentary cigars from 2 to 6 p.m. and Alessandro Martino will be snapping group pictures for all to take home as an event souvenir. The electronic dance party will kick into high gear after sundown with glow accessories provided by N&K Designs.

Miami City Ballet’s George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker 12/14/12-12/24/12

Miami City Ballet’s George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
Friday, December 14 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 15 at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 16 at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Au-Rene Theater
201 SW Fifth Ave.
Fort Lauderdale

Thursday, December 20 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, December 21 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 22 at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 23 at 1 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Monday, December 24 at 1 p.m.
Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Ziff Ballet Opera House
1300 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami

Miami City Ballet School Students from Miami-Dade And Broward Counties to Perform with MCB’s Internationally-Acclaimed Dancers!

Tickets range in price from $20 to $74 and are available online at miamicityballet.org, at the MCB box office by phone at (305) 929-7010 or toll-free at (877) 929-7010 or in person: 2200 Liberty Ave., Miami Beach, Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 
 
Tickets also on sale at:
Adrienne Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami  (305) 949-6722 ● arshtcenter.org
Broward Center, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale  (954) 462-0222 ● browardcenter.org
 
A Nutcracker doll will come to life, a Sugar Plum Fairy will dance, snowflakes will fall and smiles from children of all ages will rain down as Miami City Ballet, Florida’s Internationally Acclaimed Company under the direction of Artistic Director Lourdes Lopez, presents its enchanting holiday production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker TM at the Broward Center – Au-Rene Theater – December 14 through 16 in Fort Lauderdale and at the Adrienne Arsht Center – Ziff Ballet Opera House – December 20 through 24 in Miami. Students from Miami-Dade and Broward counties, enrolled in the prestigious Miami City Ballet School, will perform in the production along with the Company’s internationally-acclaimed dancers.  
 
Based on the story The Nutcracker and The Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann, George Balanchine’s The NutcrackerTM is a captivating tale of a little girl’s Christmas Eve dream about a handsome prince, a mouse king, toy soldiers and dancers from faraway lands set to the beloved music of Tchaikovsky, brought to life by a cast of more than 100 dancers and children.                                                                         
 
Nothing short of a feel-good, Broadway spectacular, this elaborate, full-scale musical stage production features glorious sets, lavish costumes and magical special effects. Families will be captivated watching a Christmas tree that soars from twelve to thirty feet tall, beautiful ballerinas dancing amid a live blizzard, flying sleighs, a Nutcracker doll that turns into a handsome Prince and fanciful choreography that takes the entire family on a magical journey to the Land of the Sweets. 
 
With its sumptuous décor and dazzling character dance numbers, Miami City Ballet’s production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™ is a must-see holiday extravaganza for everyone, young and old: children, parents and grandparents!

Jonathan Adler’s 100 Ways to Happy Chic Your Life Book Tour 12/19/12

Jonathan Adler’s 100 Ways to Happy Chic Your Life Book Tour
Wednesday, 12/19/2012, 06:00 pm – 08:00 pm
100-Ways-to-Happy-Chic_Invite_MiamiJonathan Adler Miami
4040 N.E. 2nd Ave.,
Miami , Florida 33137
Webpage Link

Jonathan Adler invites you to toast his NEW BOOK with Autographs, Nibbly Bits, Fist Bumps, and Holiday Giving.

10% of the sales from the evening benefit Miami Children’s Museum

Project L.E.A.P. GLBTQ Youth-Centered Performing Arts Initiative

GLBTQ Youth-Centered Performing Arts Initiative “Project L.E.A.P.” Classes
LEAPSaturday, November 24, 2012 until May 2013, every Saturday 3-6 PM
Miami Dance Studio
222 NE 25 Street
Miami, 33137

Final Performance:
Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
1300 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, FL 33132

GLBTQ or GLBTQ-friendly youth register by e-mailing info@miadancestudio.com or dialing (305) 572-1119.

Pioneer Winter Collective receives a grant to support Project L.E.A.P.(Living Equality through Arts and Performance)from The Miami Foundation’s GLBT Community Projects Fund. Project L.E.A.P. will provide free dance and creative communication workshops for GLBTQ 14-18 year-old youth and their allies with a culminating community performance at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.

Pioneer Winter Collectivereceived a grant from The Miami Foundation’s GLBT Community Projects Fund for Project L.E.A.P.(Living Equality through Arts and Performance), aneffort to increase self-efficacy, provide cultural opportunities and artist mentoring, and foster community understanding of GLBTQ (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning) youth issues by utilizingthe performing arts as a vehicle for social awareness.

“We are grateful to The Miami Foundation for investing in Project L.E.A.P. and our mission of promoting the performing arts as a means of community engagement,” saysPioneer Winter, director of Project L.E.A.P.“This generous grant allows us to offer free classes in dance and creative communication to kids who may not otherwise have the opportunity to cultivate their talent in the arts. The project also aims to instill confidence by providing a performance opportunity and a platform for self-expression.”

These opportunities are important to Miami-Dade’s youth because there are few programs as comprehensive as Project L.E.A.P. in Florida. Key features of Project L.E.A.P. include:
• Providing weekly dance and creative communication classes ledbylocal teaching artists for six months –every Saturday 3-6 PM at Miami Dance Studio (222 NE 25 Street, Miami, 33137).
• Providing a network of professional artists in the Miami-Dade community to participants for continued resources, communication, and support beyondthe six months.
• Facilitate a culminating side-by-side performance in May 2013 at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts Peacock Foundation Studio.
• Access to local cultural and performance venues to compliment their Project L.E.A.P. sessions.
• GLBTQ-identifying youth will be able to work closely with their peers, developing their own unique methods of performance to draw connections and relate to one another.
• Visiting speaking artists will serve as mentors throughout the project, in conjunction with the main teaching artists. These speakers will provide the participants with anecdotes and their experience as socially conscious artists.
• Participants will have open discussions to generate ideas and knowledge pertaining to different topics important to youth, whether it is health, identity, community, etc.
• Project LEAP will work closely with local GLBTQ youth advocate organizations like Pridelines Youth Services and high school Gay-Straight Alliances to ensure the program benefits its participants.

“This project is aligned with the priorities of The Miami Foundation,” said President and CEO Javier Alberto Soto of The Miami Foundation. “The charitable resources that donors provide allow us to address emerging needs and invest in programs such as Project L.E.A.P.that nurture the artistic and social development of our youth, thereby creating conscientious citizens and lifelong supporters of the arts.”

Miami Jewish Film Festival Calendar 1/26/13-2/4/13

Miami Jewish Film Festival Calendar
Hava Naglia Chairs-JennyJimenez_copyrightJan. 26 – Feb. 4, 2013
Cosford Cinema at the University of Miami, Coral Gables
Frank Theaters at Intracoastal Mall, North Miami Beach
Regal Cinema South Beach 18, Miami Beach.
For complete movie listings and to purchase tickets log on to www.miamijewishfilmfestival.com or call 1-888-585-FILM

Miami Jewish Film Festival Turns Sweet 16

Hava Nagila (The Movie) opens the Miami Jewish Film Festival on Saturday, January 26, with a toe-tapping, hand clapping romp through the history and mystery of this ubiquitous party song. Festival organizers are planning Miami’s Biggest Hora Happening on Tuesday, Jan 22nd at MAR -JCC, to pay tribute to the classic song that has become an integral part of Jewish celebrations.

The ten-day film festival brings award-winning national and international dramas, thought-provoking documentaries about cultural diversity and racism, and endearing stories that explore friendship, trust and the art of forgiveness.

From Scratch A Festival of New Plays 12/10/12

"From Scratch" A Festival of New Plays
scratchMonday, 12/10/2012, 7 pm to 9 pm
Deering Estate at Cutler
16701 SW 72 Ave.
Miami FL 3315
FREE & open to the public

Join us for a spectacular evening of staged readings of new work and works-in-process by this year’s Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs’ Playwright Development Program playwrights.

Over the course of the two-year program, master playwright Deborah Zoe Laufer is guiding Andie Arthur, Edward Excaliber, Vanessa Garcia and Susan Westfall in creating new short and full-length plays. The "From Scratch" Festival showcases exciting new pieces running from one minute to ten minutes each.

This fast-paced evening includes: a look at love from the three point line; the consequences of a truly creepy birthday present coming to life; the duel between Edward Cullen (Twilight) and Edward Rochester (Jane Eyre) for a young woman’s mind; and the imponderables of a young man and an older woman meeting in a pawn shop, ready to sell treasured possessions.

Ceramic League of Miami Exhibit Opening 12/12/12

Ceramic League of Miami Exhibit Opening
rubinWednesday, December 12th, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Deering Estate at Cutler
16701 SW 72 Avenue
Miami, FL 33157

Free and open to the public.

he Deering Estate at Cutler welcomes artists from the Ceramic League of Miami for their annual group exhibition!
 
The exhibit will be on display daily through January 20, 2013 and is free with Estate admission.

The Ceramic League of Miami was founded in 1950 with the purpose of educating members and the general public in all aspects of ceramics.
 
Several visiting artist workshops are offered during the year bringing nationally known ceramicists to teach and inspire the membership and the public. For more information, please visit www.ceramicleaguemiami.org .

Image:  Noreen Rubin, Orchids by the Book

Live Magic at Ave 74 -The Wizard of Ahs 12/22/12

Live Magic at Ave 74 -The Wizard of Ahs
Saturday, 12/22/2012, 11:00 am – 09:00 pm
MagicAve 74-Miami Art Gallery
4432 SW 74th Ave,
Miami, Florida 33155
Webpage Link

Live Magic at Ave 74 – The Wizards of Ahs

Saturday December 22, Ave 74 located at 4432 SW 74th Ave will be hosting “The Wizard of Ahs “ live magic show. Illusions to up close magic will dazzle the 100 seat theater for kids to adults show runs an hour and 25 mins. Four shows at 11am, 2pm, 5pm, & 7:30pm. Limited Seating. $5 if you RSVP on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ave74 or $10 at the door. For more info call 305-666-3355.

Photographs by Anthony Jordon of Art of Basketball on 11/5/12

Photographs taken by Anthony Jordon from Art of  Basketball on Wednesday, December 5, 2012.

Art of Basketball hours are Wednesday, December 5th – Sunday, December 9th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 2048 NW Miami Court,Miami, FL 33127.

“Art of Basketball is a collaboration between the NBA and Public Works Department that transforms the official NBA backboard and the 2011 NBA All-Star Game basketball court (the floor) into a collection of original artworks under license from the NBA.”

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

Pacquiao V Marquez – 4th boxing encounter- Official Miami Watch Party @ Wonderland 12/8/12

Pacquiao V Marquez – 4th boxing encounter- Official Miami Watch Party @ Wonderland
Sunday, 12/08/2012, 09:00 pm – 02:00 am
PVMWonderland
7778 Biscayne Boulevard,
Miami, Florida 33138
Eventbrite Link

You are cordially invited to the Official MiamiWatch Party: Pacquiao V Marquez- 4th Boxing Encounter at Wonderland “Upscale Gentelman’s Club”

It’s the biggest against the best and it doesn’t get much better or brighter. Boxing’s biggest star, undefeated Pacquiao, and his arch nemisis, Marquez, will align their super powers when they meet this Saturday. The mega-fight will take place Saturday, December 8th, and you’ll see it all at WONDERLAND. We welcome you to come watch and party with us, from the first punch, to the last dance. Beautiful ladies, Great Music, Drinks and Fun, and the right Ambiance for a perfect nightlife experience.

Dress Code: Proper attire ( No T-shirts / No Sneakers )

Must RSVP Online
Be sure to mention you are a guest of ‘Mexicanos en Miami’ for reduced admission of $20.00. If you do not mention ‘Mexicanos en Miami’ you will get charged the regular cover charge.

*Ladies and couples are welcomed

*Black Label Whiskey and Absolut Vodka bottle specials for our group till 12am ($200 USD plus tip & tax)

*Please consider bottle service and early arrival as a means to guarantee admission and a great experience.

For large groups, corporate event booking and bottle service please reach us at mexicanosenmiami@gmail.com

│ Full Bar│ Fine Dining│Gentelmen’s Club│ Ladies Welcome │ 21+ ID required | Proper Attire│VIP Limo Service

Wonderland Miami, the ultimate gentlemen’s club that embraces fine dining, exciting nightlife, and full friction entertainment. Whether you want to relax and have a drink after a long work day, watch a sports game or boxing match, or just have a boys’ night out, Wonderland is the place to be! It also offers a variety of bachelor party packages that will guarantee your last night of freedom may have you thinking twice about taking the plunge.

Questions feel free to send an email to mexicanosenmiami@gmail.com