Actors, Robert Rodriguez, Danny Trejo and Alexa Vega attended the Red Carpet screening for Machete Kills at Regal Cinemas on Lincoln Road. The cast also celebrated at Soho Beach House for the after party. 

Musician and songwriter Mike Deleasa performed live on Thursday, October 10 at the Oncology Unit of Miami Children’s Hospital for the inaugural kickoff of the Family Fun Night Series.  

Sweat USA, America’s first All-Star Fitness Festival, flexed its muscle on Miami Beach over Columbus Day weekend as thousands of enthusiasts headed to the Miami Beach Convention Center for classes with their favorite fitness idols.  First up on Saturday morning was ‘America’s Toughest Trainer’ and star of the hit NBC show The Biggest  Loser, Jillian Michaels.  Her class was easily the quickest to sell out as fans from as far as Brazil and the UK packed in to the ballroom as the music thumped before Jillian bounced on to the stage.  Supermodel Karolina Kurkova was seen browsing the exhibition floor, trying a few samples of the latest nutrition bars and weight loss formulas.  On Sunday, the highly anticipated creator of ‘Insanity,’ today’s biggest selling home-based DVD workout program, Shaun T arrived on-stage with his husband, Scott Blokker, in tow.  ABC’s ‘Shark Tank’ panelist, creator of Fubu and Miami resident, Daymon John, stopped by the Convention Center to say hello to his business partners who founded SurfSet, the surf board workout routine, which John invested in on the show.  The day finished with the founder of P90X, Tony Horton, providing a packed ballroom a rendition of his latest routine P90X 3. 

Music producer, Pharrell Williams, married longtime girlfriend, model, Helen Lasichanh, mother to the couple’s son, Rocket, on Saturday night at the Kampong National Gardens in Coconut Grove.  Busta Rhymes and Usher performed a mini-concert for the happy couple to celebrate their nuptials. 

A newly-svelte Rick Ross hosted the “Prestige Sunday” party at BAMBOO Miami Beach celebrating DJ Camilo’s birthday.   DJ Epps and DJ E-Feezy kept the music pumping the party til the wee hours of the morning.  Other celebs were there for the birthday celebration: FLOrida, Busta Rhymes, FABOLOUS and French Montana.  It was a PACKED house, the line of people awaiting entry spanned several blocks. 

Newly wed Savannah Brinson, wife of Lebron James, was spotted enjoying a sushi lunch at Zuma with fellow basketball wife Jenine Howard.  Mexican actor, Jorge Salinas and his wife were also seen sharing Japanese Wagyu.  Also spotted, retired heavyweight champion boxer, Lennox Lewis, dined with friends at Zuma Sunday night.  Greg Oden of the Miami Heat, enjoyed a late night dinner Tuesday there with a lady friend. 

By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                The Miami Rail’s Carnival Fun-Raiser 

On a perfect fall afternoon, Gallery Diet owners, Nina Johnson-Milewski and husband, Daniel Milewski welcomed hundreds of artists and art lovers to their beautiful 1920s home (complete with a pool with Titanic-inspired mosaics) to party, bounce, dunk, drink and feast at the Miami Rail’s anniversary Fun-Raiser, an “adult” carnival all in the name of art and culture (oft one in the same).  The fun, fashionable crowd gathered in support of The Miami Rail, the sister publication to The Brooklyn Rail, a non-profit literary journal, in its sixth edition with its seventh due in December—just in time for Art Basel (online at miamirail.org).   Nina describes the publication as one that, “is for people who are culturally invested in the arts, it offers a broader, in-depth perspective than other papers and magazines. We have artist-to-artist interviews, writer-to-writer interviews, poetry for each issue, reviews of galleries and museum exhibitions, architecture.” 

  Read the rest of this entry »

By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore and Maryanne Salvat

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring 2014 took over Lincoln Center for seven days of runway shows and presentations.  Dozens of top names in fashion presented a variety of looks that, despite having been created for “spring” would be considered “year-round” fashion in sunny Miami.  As expected, resort wear ruled the runways- floral and artsy prints, pastels and patterns prevailed, as did sleek, structured pieces. Most designers celebrated the bare midriff, showcasing at least a few, if not several, crop tops. Black and white and monochromatic looks dominated Jill Stuart, Ralph Lauren, Cynthia Rowley, Rag & Bone, Victoria Beckham, and Altuzarra’s shows, to name a few.  

The shows were presented with fun and flair this season.  Diane von Furstenberg’s show seemed like an all-out 1970s-inspired dance party; Cynthia Rowley presented in a 19th century Gothic landmark, adorned with colorful, whimsical decorations; Prabal Gurung filled the room with the scent of roses for his show and Opening Ceremony took over the Super Pier to showcase clothes from models in luxury cars.  Here’s a rundown of some of our favorite shows this season. Read the rest of this entry »

By: Maryanne Salvat

maryannesalvat@aol.com 

Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour Key To The Cure 

To help raise both money and awareness for women’s cancers, Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour will once again partner with The Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center to host this year’s Key To The Cure, a charity shopping weekend taking place October 17 through October 20. During the shopping weekend, 2% of participating vendor sales from Saks Bal Harbour – up to $500,000 – will be donated to the Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center. Actress Jennifer Aniston has been named the 2013 Entertainment Industry Foundation’s ambassador for Saks Fifth Avenue’s 2013 Key to The Cure campaign.  In support of this program, Ms. Aniston will appear in a national public service announcement (PSA) wearing a limited-edition Key To The Cure T-shirt by celebrated designer Peter Dundas of Emilio Pucci. The T-shirt retails for $35 in Saks stores, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH stores or at www.mountsinaifoundation.org/KeyToTheCure. One hundred percent of the proceeds of the purchase price of each T-shirt sold at Saks Bal Harbour and via the Mount Sinai online site will be donated to The Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center.

First Annual MEDDY Awards

Medical and lifestyle organizations will gather on Friday, October 18, 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., for the 1st Annual MEDDY Awards, at Hyde Beach in the SLS Hotel, to honor those who have contributed to medical missions abroad. The event, presented by NBC6 reporter Kelly Blanco, will benefit local charity Jose’s Hands, and feature an inspiring Beauty & Fashion Experience, in collaboration with celebrity-endorsed designer Kymerah, luxury salon Warren-Tricomi, and modeling agency Quintessential Promotions. The evening will also count with performances by renowned local female powerhouse DJ YSL, alongside Miami’s celebrity drummer David Silva. Tickets can be purchased at www.joseshands.com/weekend. 

Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure 

More than 20,000 walkers and runners will join together for the Susan G. Komen Miami/Ft. Lauderdale 18^th Annual Race for the Cure® on Saturday, October 19, starting at 7:30am, at Bayfront Park. The Race will honor breast cancer survivors, support those dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis and raise funds for research to end breast cancer. Seventy five percent (75%) of net proceeds from the event stay in Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe Counties to support local breast cancer programs. To register or volunteer go towww.komenmiaftl.orgor call 305.383.7116.

Connor Cruise at SET!

SET hosts DJ Connor Cruise on Saturday, October 19.  After completing recent tours across the globe, Connor Cruise has begun to make his mark across the electronic music world and the young stars future continues to look bright! Cruise has been spending time in the studio as a producer, working on remixes and original tracks with Grammy-nominated producer/DJ Andy Caldwell as well as Black Eyed Peas DJ/producer Poet.  His remix of “Feed me Diamonds” by MNDR was picked by Ultra records and was featured on David Letterman. He has also worked with similar artists such as the Veronicas, creating unique and creative remixes. Cruise has several original tracks in the pipeline that are poised to be hits worldwide; For tickets visit: http://www.wantickets.com/Events/140172/Connor-Cruise-at-SET-Nightclub/.

MISO: The Miami Symphony Orchestra

On Sunday, October 20, celebrate 25 years with The Miami Symphony Orchestra as they welcome back popular Spanish classical guitarist Ángel Romero, along with the virtuosic pianist Andreas Boyde, to commemorate MISO’s 25th Anniversary Season. Maestro Eduardo Marturet leads a colorful program that includes his very own homage to Cuban painter Waldo Balart, Beethoven’s magnificent Emperor Concerto, and the rich, warm sonorities of Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez. For more information or to purchase tickets visit: http://themiso.org. 

FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Turns 25! 

Celebrating its 25^th season this week, FUNKSHION hosts high fashion events all week long including the RedDress Show presented by the American Heart Association.   Heart disease being the number one killer of women, FUNKSHION Miami treasures the opportunity to create as much awareness as possible and raise money for the fight against this disease.  For a complete schedule of events visit: http://www.funkshion.com/schedule.html. 

Happenings at The Flat Miami 

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, The Flat is thinking pink and introducing a specialty drink to their handcrafted cocktail menu for socially conscious sippers. During the entire month of October, patrons can enjoy Pink is the New Black ($13), a combination of vodka and St. Germain topped with a sparkling rosé and a splash of antioxidant rich cranberry juice. Twenty percent of proceeds from each drink will benefit The Florida Breast Cancer Foundation, a nonprofit, grassroots organization dedicated to ending breast cancer through advocacy, education, and research. All donations will remain in the State of Florida to support programs for Florida residents and institutions. 

To welcome the fall, The Flat has created a multi-course cocktail menu designed to “wet” the appetite. Based on the concept of the Miami Spice tasting menus, the Flat’s limited edition cocktail menu is a liquid adaption where patrons can enjoy a series of satisfying sips for only $33. Enjoy a selection of cocktails that progress over the palate from light-bodied to rich and dark, comparable to the complexity of a perfectly paired menu’s appetizer, entrée and dessert. The menu includes The Suite 180, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, Aperol, agave nectar and orange cream bitters topped with champagne. This light, citrus cocktail prepares the pallet for The First Date, a hearty, main course made with gin, yellow chartreuse, honey, and lemon juice. Cap off the evening with The Jesserna, a digestif dessert of muddled raspberries, bourbon, vanilla beans, Averna Italian Liqueur and lemon juice; for more information visit, www.theflatmiami.com.   

SeaFood Spice at The Trapiche Room 

With less than one month left of the ever-popular SeaFood Spice promotion, those seeking a romantic and intimate dining experience must visit The Trapiche Room. Located within Brickell’s JW Marriott Miami, the restaurant’s convenient location and serene setting affords Downtown’s movers and shakers the ideal venue for a working power lunch. When the sun sets, The Trapiche Room transforms into the city’s most intimate dining venue. Executive Chef Daniel Goldich offers refined Mediterranean dishes in a warm, candlelight environment. Complete with mahogany fixtures and classic décor, The Trapiche Room is just a few feet away from the hotel’s outdoor La Terresa. A stark contrast to The Trapiche Room, La Terrasa featuring gorgeous city views and eclectic nautical furniture, perfect for after dinner drinks and cigars.  http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/miajw-jw-marriott-hotel-miami/  or 305.329.3500.

Not So Scary Halloween Bash at MCM 

It’s not so scary, but all your little ghosts and goblins are guaranteed to have a boo-tiful time at Miami Children’s Museum’s “Not So Scary Family Halloween Bash!” on Sunday, October 20 from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Miami Children’s Museum on Watson Island. Considered one of Miami’s best Family Halloween events, you and your family are guaranteed to have a great and ghostly time as your costumed trick-or-treaters make their candy collecting way around the Museum’s 14 galleries.  Enjoy Miami’s best family friendly haunted house, create crazed crafts and become part of our fun and colorful costume parade.  Families are bound to have a bewitching time and will enjoy creating miniature pumpkin and sugar skulls, face painting, dancing the Monster Mash, eating delectable treats, taking part in our a silent auction and much, much more. All the proceeds from the Not So Scary Family Halloween Bash benefit the Museum’s educational programs. Individual tickets to the “Not So Scary Halloween Bash” are just $30.00 for members and $40.00 for non-members when purchased before October 1st.  After October 1^st,  Individual tickets become $40.00 for members and $50.00 for non-members. A Family Package for $200.00 is also available that includes 6 tickets.  For more information, to learn about sponsorship opportunities or to purchase tickets, visit www.miamichildrensmuseum.org/halloween or call 305.373.KIDS (5437), ext. 120.

Dark Dining at City Hall The Restaurant

On Friday, October 25, City Hall the Restaurant will host Dark Dining, a unique dining experience that promotes communication and enhances your senses. Dark Dining allows people without disabilities to get a better understanding of what life is like for individuals with visual impairments. Dark Dining provides diners with the opportunity to experience a first class meal while blindfolded. “This unique event is a sensory overload dining experience you won’t want to miss!!” says Steven Haas, owner of City Hall the Restaurant. Call 305-764-3130to make a reservation. $125 per person includes a four course dinner with wine pairings, tax and gratuity. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Miami Lighthouse for the Blind.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Duffy’s Sports Grill Oktoberfest 

Wishing you could make the long trip to celebrate Oktoberfest in Germany? Well, don’t worry about packing your suitcase because Duffy’s Sports Grill is bringing the festivities to you! For the entire month of October, the restaurant is celebrating Oktoberfest by serving two traditional German dishes: Pork Wiener Schnitzel served with buttered spaetzle and arugula garnish for $10.99, and Bratwurst topped with caramelized onions on a bun served with french fries for $7.99. While you enjoy a delicious German feast, quench your thirst with 2-for-1 Samuel Adams OctoberFest Lagers all day, every day. You’ll feel like you’re in Bavaria in no time! Put on your Lederhosen, and stop by Duffy’s today! Note that the Samuel Adams OctoberFest Lager is a seasonal item and will only be available for a limited time while supplies last. For a complete list of Duffy’s locations, visit www.duffysmvp.com/locations. For more information about Oktoberfest at Duffy’s, visit: https://www.duffysmvp.com/celebrate-oktoberfest-at-duffys. 

Miro’s Boutique Grand Opening 

South Miami’s new women’s multi-brand boutique, Miro’s Boutique, is celebrating its grand opening this Friday, October 11 at 6:00 p.m. Guests will enjoy cocktails, light bites and receive 10% off all purchases when shopping the latest fall trends from top designers: David Peck, Catherine Deane, Harlyn, DL1961 Denim, Renzo + Kai, L.A.M.B., Emerson Thorpe, WREN, SW3 Bespoke, Maliparmi, Tolani, ONE by La Maison, Marna Ro, Madison Marcus, Aijek, and more. A variety of both one-of-a-kind and on-trend jewelry designers and accessories are showcased including Gypsy Jewelry, House of Harlow, Yosi Samra, and Roni Blanshay, along with Miro’s Private Label of exquisite handbags and accessories. 

Hackathon Miami 

On October 11 and 12 join Hackathon Miami a 24 hour think-tank, in which engineers, application developers, creatives, entrepreneurs, educators, illustrators, and graphic designers come together to develop tech-powered products that help propel, promote, or assist education reform. The event takes place inside Downtown Miami’s Venture Hive. The winning project receives a $5,000 cash prize. The participants receive breakfast, lunch, dinner (and coffee, lots). Mentors will also be available throughout Hackathon’s duration. *Miami resident Felecia Hatcher, founder of Feverish Gourmet Popsicles and Black Tech Miami, will be mentoring Saturday. She was honored by the White House as one of the Top 100 Entrepreneurs Under 30 and has been featured on NBC’s Today Show. Hackathon San Francisco recently took place at Eventbrite’s headquarters and will be going to Chicago in late October. It is open to anyone, working professionals or students; collaboration is encouraged, so guests may attend solo or bring their preferred team with them. The school with the most participants is eligible for an additional cash prize ($1K). More info: http://lincolnlabs.com/hackathons/miami.html.

BleauLive Hosts The Band Perry

Miami Beach continues its legacy hosting top entertainers with a performance by 2011 Academy of Country Music Award’s Top New Artist and GRAMMY Award nominee The Band Perry on October 13 as part of the iconic hotel’s BleauLive performance series. BleauLive combines a luxury vacation experience with live performances by some of today’s biggest names in music and personal guest interaction with the artists.   Fontainebleau Miami Beach is offering The Band Perry fans an unbeatable package Dinner and a Show which includes: dinner at your choice of three Fontainebleau signature restaurants including AAA Four Diamond Award-winning Gotham Steak, Hakkasan and Scarpetta, featuring a pre-show prix fixe menu for $100 per person. A 6:00 p.m. reservation must be made by guest and choice of restaurant is subject to availability. Access pass to BleauLive presents “The Band Perry” including a two-hour open bar featuring specialty cocktails. The event will be held in the Sparkle room.  Doors open at 8:00 p.m.BleauLive packages can be purchased online at WWW.BLEAULIVE.COM or by calling 1.800.548.8886.

GBS Beauty Store Hosts Pure Barre Miami Celebration 

On October 24, Pure Barre Miami celebrates its first anniversary! Pure Barre is the latest fitness trend to hit South Florida. Stars like Madonna, Zooey Deschanel and Natalie Portman all sculpted their stunning dancer-esque physiques using the barre technique, which incorporates small isometric movements to effectively target problem areas women struggle with the most such as abs, hips, seat and arms while integrating stretching sessions to elongate muscles and prevent bulk. Pure Barre Miami has already sculpted hundreds of bodies into pure perfection and now, in honor of its one-year anniversary “barre-ty”, they are inviting the community to join them for an evening of celebratory pampering featuring pop-up beauty “barres” by GBS Beauty Store, healthy bites and handcrafted cocktail shots by LIQS.  Pop-up pampering stations include complimentary mini-manicures at the Purely Polished Mani Barre featuring the hottest nail shades by Deborah Lipmann and Butter London, a Fall Lip Barre featuring Lipstick Queen and Sara Happ, and a Brighten Up Eye Barre with all the creams, concealers and powders the lid can hold.Guests will also enjoy an exclusive pop-up shop by Athleta featuring the latest workout gear for the season and giveaways throughout the night.  In addition, the first 100 guests will receive a GBS gift bag filled with must-have beauty essentials.

Loews Miami Beach Hotel Hosts The 3rd Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament 

On October 25, Loews Miami Beach Hotel will host its 3rd Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament, benefiting  www.DonorsChoose.org, an online charity that connects donors to Miami Dade County classrooms in need. Additionally, the tournament benefits The Foundation for New Education Initiatives, a Miami-Dade County School Board program created to enhance student achievement and community engagement. The tournament has received celebrity and influencer endorsements from the likes of Alonzo Mourning, Ken Griffey, Jr., Jay Harris, Jason Taylor, Bucky Dent and Mark Duper and many more throughout the years. Entry into the tournament is $4,000 per foursome, which covers green fees for three players and one celebrity, premium gift bags, commemorative photo, breakfast, lunch and more.

America’s Got Talent is coming to South Florida! 

The only talent competition open to any age and any talent, AGT, will be hosting auditions nationwide as well as online. Auditions in Miami will be held at the Miami Beach Convention Center on October 26 and 27.  Over the past seasons, AGT has developed a massive social media presence, and their numbers only continue to grow. It goes to show that AGT’s platform can give artists of ANY kind a serious amount of exposure! To pre-register visit: http://www.americasgottalentauditions.com/.