By: Maryanne Salvat

Cotton’s 24 Hour Runway Show

Cotton’s 24 Hour Runway Show will open to the public starting at 8:00 p.m., March 1 – 8 :00 p.m., March 2 on Ocean Drive between 8^th and 9^th Street and highlight 1,440 looks inspired by America’s style. Join in for an evening of music and fashion with DJ Ross One and DJ IRIE spinning beats as models walk the hottest trends down the catwalk from nighttime chic to daytime glamour. Can’t make it in person? Fashionistas everywhere will have a chance to virtually sit in the front row of this event by watching it live on http://cotton24hours.thefabricofourlives.com/runway_show.

The Kids Fit Foundation and The Spartan Kids

The Kids Fit Foundation is headed to Florida International University February 23 and 24 where 4-13 year olds will run a mini version of the Spartan race. The Spartan Kids race is the ultimate kid-friendly obstacle course consisting of 10 – 20 challenges. It features obstacles such as mud pits, tunnel crawls and balance beams with a one-mile race for Varsity Spartans and a half-mile race for Junior Spartans.

Each child will receive a T-shirt and Finisher’s Medal with 100% of the Spartan Kids race proceeds benefiting the Kids Fit Foundation. Spartan races and the Kids Fit Foundation have teamed up to encourage youth to become more active and live healthier, happier lives.

Kids Fit National Spokespeople and mother and son duo Dan and Jackie Evans are best known for their participation on season five of NBC’s hit reality show, “The Biggest Loser”. The pair lost a combined total of 225 pounds.“I love being a part of the Spartan Kids races,” said Dan. “It’s so great to see these young kids having so much fun exercising. I wish I started racing at an early age because it’s all about prevention.”The Spartan Kids Race will kick off at noon. For more information or to register for the race, visit www.spartanrace.com.

Florida Cookery at The James Royal Palm and 2013 Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival 

Florida Cookery at The James Royal Palm is pleased to announce its event line-up surrounding the 2013 Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival. The local, fresh and unpretentious restaurant concept, helmed by Executive Chef/Partner Kris Wessel, will host and/or participate in various public and private unofficial satellite events during the four-day star-studded event that showcases the talents of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities. The line-up of events at The James Royal Palm taking place during South Beach Wine & Food Festival are:

Friday, February 22

Let’s Get Spiked! Celebrity Chef Volleyball Tournament:

“Top Chef”-alum Spike Mendelsohn and Florida Cookery’s own Kris Wessel will host the first ever “Let’s Get Spiked!” celebrity chef volleyball tournament, located behind The James on the sands of Miami Beach. Mendelsohn, Wessel and 14 of their compatriots including Chuck Hughes, Alex Guarnaschelli, Andrew Zimmern, Tim Love, Pat LaFrieda, Marcel Vigneron, Adrianne Calvo, Jeff Mauro, Johnny Iuzzini, Stephanie Izard, Todd Erickson, Justin Warner and Alberto Cabrera, will be broken up into teams of four to battle in a series of fast-paced volleyball matches. It’s one of the only chances for the public to get up and close personal with their favorite chefs free of charge chefs during SBWFF. Tournament is from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. Open to Public.

Saturday, February 23

Chef Art Smith of Washington, DC’s Art & Soul, in collaboration with New York’s own Big Gay Ice Cream Truck, will host the “Big Gay Ice Cream Social”, a public event to raise awareness for marriage equality in Florida. Guests will enjoy a mix of ice cream-themed stations set up in the Breezeway at The James Royal Palm, featuring treats for both adults and children utilizing local and seasonal flavors, plus boozy ice cream/sorbet floats.

Location: The Breezeway at The James Royal Palm From: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Open to public.

 By: Maryanne Salvat 

Tosca on Valentine’s Day 

This Valentine’s Day, embrace “the sweet life” at Tosca as they will be turning back the hands of time to the late 1950s, setting the mood for a romantic evening abound with sumptuous dishes, rich decor and live cabaret show inspired by Federico Fellini’s masterpiece La Dolce Vita. The prix-fixe menu, priced at $245 per couple, showcases a selection of Tosca’s signature dishes, including the Fettuccine with Mascarpone Cheese, Bone-in Prime Tenderloin and a ménage-a-trois of chocolate. Seatings are at 7:00 and 9:30 p.m., with the show times at 8:00 and 10:30 p.m.; For reservations call: 786.216.7230.

Saks Loves Your Cause

This February, Saks Fifth Avenue will give 5% of all registered purchases made with a Saks Fifth Avenue credit card back to charity with an initiative called Saks Loves Your Cause.  The donations will benefit The American Red Cross and select local organizations, keeping support within each Saks Fifth Avenue store’s immediate community.

South Beach Wine and Food Festival 2013

It’s no secret that the South Beach Wine and Food Festival (SBWFF) is taking over Miami, on February 21 through February 24.  Those of you that have been looking forward to the foodie weekend will be in for a treat, with new exciting events to add to the classic line-up that encompasses the festival; gastro-fiends will invade the South Florida beaches to soak up some rays and catch chef-lebrity sightings as well as live performances. To plan your excursion into this delectable territory visit:  www.sobefest.com. Don’t forget to prep a bag with Havaianas, antacids, and digestive aids to get you through it.

Havaianas and Michelle Bernstein Come Together at Burger Bash 2013

Havaianas, the world’s most stylish flip flop, has partnered with James Beard Award winning chef and Miami native,Michelle Bernstein to bring “Instant Brazilian Joy” to the 2013 Food & Wine Burger Bash in Miami. To celebrate this partnership, Havaianas has created a limited edition collection of Food & Wine pins that will be available on-site at Burger Bash and on the Havaianas website from February 21through February 24.  These whimsical pins feature snacks and cooking items such as pasta, cracked eggs, burgers, fries, ice-cream, pickles, ketchup and more. Bernstein infused her famous Latin culinary style with the deeply rooted Brazilian heritage of Havaianas to create an eclectic menu of recipes inspired by this exclusive collection of flip flop styles and pins. The authentic delicacies such as Bolo de Maracujá (Passion Fruit Cake) with purple sandals and the ice cream pin, The Brazilian Burger with red sandals and the burger pin, or Moqueca with gold flip flops with the fish pin, and more will be available for each guest to order complimentary a la carte at the event. Bernstein will be on-site at the Havaianas booth at the Burger Bash to “serve up” her delectably named sandals and exclusive recipe cards featuring her real gourmet creations. For the foodies who cannot make it to Burger Bash this year, Michelle’s flip flop creations and her custom sandal, The Meal (gold flip flop with ketchup, burger, pickle and fries pin) will be available for sale on www.us.havaianas.com for $2.50 each pin for the duration of the SOBE Food & Wine Festival.

Smithfield Versailles Cuban Combo Food Truck 

To add to our self-inflicted eating addiction, Smithfield and Versailles have partnered to create the ultimate “Smithfield Versailles Cuban Combo.” The Smithfield food truck will be stationed outside nighttime events, handing out free Cuban sandwich samples for all, from midnight to 2:00 a.m. on February 22 at the James Hotel and February 23 at the Dream Hotel.  Stop by to have a taste!  

Hat Luncheon with the Vizcayans 

On Tuesday, February 26, The Vizcayans will host their fifth annual Preservation Luncheon, fondly referred to as the “Hat Luncheon”, at the historic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. The al-fresco luncheon will be blossoming with stylish hats and elegant attire galore, reminiscent of fashionable daytime soirees in the formal Italianate gardens, which were a tradition in Vizcaya’s early years as James Deering’s European-inspired home, opened in 1916. This year’s chair for the Preservation Luncheon is Lydia Touzet.The afternoon will begin with a glorious cocktail reception on the Garden Mound where guests will be welcomed by enchanting string music as they sip on champagne and enjoy decadent hors d’oeuvres. Trumpets will then cue guests to proceed to a lavish dining experience in a beautifully decorated pavilion that includes an exquisite four-course lunch catered by Thierry’s Catering, Lanson champagne and wines by Chateau D’Esclans. Gift bags will be provided courtesy of Neiman Marcus Coral Gables. The Vizcayan’s Preservation Luncheon, inspired by the Central Park Conservancy’s “Hat luncheon” held each year in New York, was founded by Norma Quintero in 2009 during her term as president of the Vizcayans in an effort to raise money to protect the estate’s viewshed. All proceeds from this and all Vizcayans events currently benefit a comprehensive restoration plan for Vizcaya’s buildings, gardens and outdoor statuary.Individual tickets are $300 and tables (for ten) are $3,000. For more information and to purchase tickets call 305.856.4866 ext. 3 or email rsvp@vizcayans.org.

RADIO Pop-Up Bar

RADIO Pop-Up Bar, the new concept bynightlife trio and longtime friends Paulo Cardoso, Tatanka Guerrero and Philippe “Flip” Falca, has launched South of Fifth,located on 814 1st St. RADIO will offer a drink list featuring handcrafted cocktails, champagne and local craft beers, as well as classic bites including grilled cheese sandwiches, hot dogs and old-fashioned popcorn. RADIO’s name is fitting considering it is the only bar with an actual 600-foot radio tower in South Beach and the first pop up bar to grace the South of Fifth neighborhood. The pop-up’s craft cocktails and timeless nibbles are served in a lively atmosphere with a warm and laid-back South Beach service. Every Friday night, new cocktails – such as the Thai Chile and Pineapple Caipirnha – will be available for less than $10. DJ sets, hosted by OFM Talent, will be on rotation all weekend long and will feature a selection of South Beach’s most talented MCs. RADIO is open seven days a week from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. The main entrance is situated on 1st Street, but the back entryway east of the bar is recommended as a courtesy to residents for guests arriving after 11:00 p.m.

By: Maryanne Salvat

Glamadolls: Postcards of Love and Charity

This Valentine’s Day, inspiring artist Renato Armijo celebrates with his beautiful Glamadolls masterpieces supporting Care Resource of South Florida as they work to help those inflicted with HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. A portion of the proceeds from sales of these one of a kind Valentine’s Day cards will be donated to Care Resource, aiding their efforts to help those in need. Show-off some heart and support this wonderful cause; for more information visit:http://www.facebook.com/Glamadolls or glamadolls@gmail.com. 

Gilt City Warehouse Sale 

It’s time again for the Gilt City Miami Warehouse Sale on Friday, February 8 and Saturday, February 9 at the Miami Iron Side.  The two-day event features Gilt’s top brands—from men’s and women’s fashion to home accessories—at up to 90% off retail prices! General tickets to the warehouse sale can be purchased at: http://www.giltcity.com/miami/miawarehouse2013. Attendees are also invited to tweet and instagram a photo of what they purchased from the Warehouse Sale by using the hashtag #RaidtheWarehouse to enter to win $100 of Gilt credit. 

Chloe’s Soft Serve Fruit Co. at Dylan’s Candy Bar Miami Beach

Chloe’s Soft Serve Fruit Co., the New York based all-natural dessert, is now available in Miami at the brand new Dylan’s Candy Bar on Lincoln Road.  The delicious treat is a three ingredient dessert made with just fruit, water and a touch of organic cane sugar that has the consistency of frozen yogurt.  It is fat-free, cholesterol-free, and sodium-free; The best part, only 90 calories in a 3.5 oz. serving. Varieties rotate seasonally, and include options such as mango, banana, raspberry, blueberry, pear, apple, pumpkin, blood orange, tangy tangerine, dark chocolate (made with 100% Ecuadorian cacao beans), etc. So go get your soft serve on! 

  RA Sushi’s Foodies Show Heart on Wednesday, February 13 at 7:00 p.m.; sixlocal, notable food bloggers & media personalities will go against each other in an Iron Chef-style battle for a noble cause.  Each contestant will team up with a RA Sushi chef to create their most unique, best tasting sushi roll each contestant must use one secret, seasonal ingredient YOU will serve as the judges, with each attendee receiving ONE token to vote for their favorite foodie Most tokens at 9:00 p.m.  wins. The champion foodie’s dish will be featured on RA Sushi in South Miami’s menu for 30 days and a portion of proceeds from the sale of that dish will go to benefit the competitor’s charity of choice. Bloggers and media participants include: Laine Doss,lead Food & Spirits Reporter at Miami New Times and Broward/Palm Beach New Times,as well as contributor to Food Network and Cooking Channel– competing on behalf of Tri County Humane Society,a 100 percent no-kill organization saving lives of animals in Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Martin counties; Linda Gassenheimer, TV and radio personality at WLRN 91.3 and “Dinner In Minutes” columnist at The Miami Herald, is an award-winning author of 16 cookbooks, including The Flavors of the Florida Keys and Fast and Flavorful: Great Diabetes Meals from Market to Table – competing on behalf of Camillus House, a full-service center that has provided humanitarian services to the indigent and homeless populations of Miami-Dade County for more than 50 years; Jen Karetnick, Dining Critic at MIAMI Magazine and Miami’s longest-running food critic, she has written about food and travel national publications and websites including Food Network’s City Eats, Forbes.com, Gayot.com and Southern Living ­– competing on behalf of Doctors Without Borders,an international medical humanitarian organization that provides independent, impartial assistance in more than 60 countries; Lydia Martin, “Lunch with Lydia” columnist for The Miami Herald, has lunched with celebs such as Jennifer Lopez, Lil’ Kim, Penelope Cruz, Will Smith, Sting and Celia Cruz, along with a who’s who of food world personalities, from Ferran Adria and Alain Ducasse to Anthony Bourdain – competing on behalf of Pridelines Youth Services, an organization dedicated to supporting, educating and empowering South Florida’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth in a safe and diverse environment; Jacquelynn Powers, Editorial Director of MiamiPopMedia.com and a longtime food writer for Ocean Drive Magazine, The Daily Beast, AOL and Urban Daddy, her interview subjects include Emeril Lagasse, Padma Lakshmi and Wolfgang Puck – competing on behalf of Mourning Family Foundation,a non-profit organization founded by Alonzo and Tracy Mourning to better serve South Florida communities and its children; Johnny Todd, Miami Community Director at Yelp and urban explorer seeking the best that local businesses have to offer, Todd has also bested Chicago foodies in two “Iron Cook” competitions (Citrus and Autumn) – competing on behalf of Year Up, a an organization that seeks to close the Opportunity Divide by providing urban young adults with the skills, experience, and support that will empower them to reach their true potential. Guests will also enjoy extended happy hour specials until close and beats by a special guest DJ. The event is FREE but space is limited and RSVP is encouraged to FoodiesShowHeart@taraink.com. 

Café Prima Pasta Valentine’s Special

Café Prima Pasta is setting the mood this Valentines’ Day with an “afternoon delight” half price menu from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. and prix fixe menu from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. featuring some of the restaurant’s most desirable dishes to complement its existing a la carte options. Executive chef, Papa Arturo, has coupled his passion for pasta with his proficiency in the language of love to create a romantic spread of Italian delicacies available for dinner on Thursday, February 14 for $65 per person.     Begin the evening with a complimentary glass of champagne upon arrival. Then choose from a series of starters sized for sharing including Cupid’s Caprese, imported buffalo mozzarella layered between thick slices of beefsteak tomatoes and fresh basil; Exotic Mixed Green Salad, an organic spring mix of fresh garden greens, artichokes and hearts of palm drizzled with a tomato vinaigrette dressing; Carpaccio di Manzo, thin slices of USDA prime filet mignon with imported extra virgin olive oil, zesty lemon and robust parmesan cheese; Tuna Osaka, fresh tuna tartare splashed in a lemon and soy reduction or Sweetheart Fiocchi alla Pera,made-to-order pasta purses stuffed with fontina cheese and sweet pear, topped with roasted prosciutto in a creamy truffle sauce. Enjoy an assortment of entrées ranging from Secret Garden Risotto, couscous risotto served with hearty root vegetables, porcini mushrooms and Mascarpone cheese; Heart Shaped Lobster Ravioli,homemade pasta pockets stuffed with Maine lobster and rich ricotta cheese; Red Snapper, fresh Florida snapper lightly coated in shredded zucchini and fried golden brown; Last Kiss Garlic Shrimp, jumbo rock shrimp tossed with penne pasta in a pink vodka sauce; Romantic Ravioli, fresh pasta purses filled with intoxicating porcini mushrooms and fontina cheese in a delicate cream sauce; “Maine Squeeze” Lobster, savory lobster served over a bed of gluten-free, angel hair pasta and Lover’s Lamb Shank with made to order fettuccini. Seal the deal at the end of the night with a Love me Tender Tartuffo made for indulging in with a special someone. For reservations, call 305.867.0106 or visit, www.cafeprimapasta.com. 

Friends of New World Symphony Big Band Swing 2013!  

It’s is all about the music for Friends of New World Symphony and there will be no exception on Saturday, February 23. Mark your calendars because you will not want to miss the return of Miami’s most glamorous and unique black tie gala party, Big Band Swing 2013! It starts at 10 p.m. and ends at 1 a.m. Tickets for Friends are a special rate of $125 each ($75 is tax deductible). There will be a price increase after February 5th. Tickets include cocktails, light bites and dancing to the swinging sounds of Michael Andrew and the Atomic Big Band, an 18-piece orchestra back by popular demand. For reservations and inquiries please contact Nathalie Cadet-James at 305.428.6733or nathalie.cadet-james@nws.edu.

Havaianas and Michelle Bernstein Come Together at Burger Bash 2013

Havaianas, the world’s most stylish flip flop, has partnered with James Beard Award winning chef and Miami native, Michelle Bernstein to bring “Instant Brazilian Joy” to the 2013 Food & Wine Burger Bash in Miami. To celebrate this partnership, Havaianas has created a limited edition collection of Food & Wine pins that will be available on-site at Burger Bash and on the Havaianas website from February 21through February 24.  These whimsical pins feature snacks and cooking items such as pasta, cracked eggs, burgers, fries, ice-cream, pickles, ketchup and more. Bernstein infused her famous Latin culinary style with the deeply rooted Brazilian heritage of Havaianas to create an eclectic menu of recipes inspired by this exclusive collection of flip flop styles and pins. The authentic delicacies such as Bolo de Maracujá (Passion Fruit Cake) with purple sandals and the ice cream pin, The Brazilian Burger with red sandals and the burger pin, or Moqueca with gold flip flops with the fish pin, and more will be available for each guest to order complimentary a la carte at the event. Bernstein will be on-site at the Havaianas booth at the Burger Bash to “serve up” her delectably named sandals and exclusive recipe cards featuring her real gourmet creations. For the foodies who cannot make it to Burger Bash this year, Michelle’s flip flop creations and her custom sandal, The Meal (gold flip flop with ketchup, burger, pickle and fries pin) will be available for sale on www.us.havaianas.com for $2.50 each pin for the duration of the SOBE Food & Wine Festival.

Hat Luncheon with the Vizcayans 

On Tuesday, February 26, The Vizcayans will host their fifth annual Preservation Luncheon, fondly referred to as the “Hat Luncheon”, at the historic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. The al-fresco luncheon will be blossoming with stylish hats and elegant attire galore, reminiscent of fashionable daytime soirees in the formal Italianate gardens, which were a tradition in Vizcaya’s early years as James Deering’s European-inspired home, opened in 1916. This year’s chair for the Preservation Luncheon is Lydia Touzet.The afternoon will begin with a glorious cocktail reception on the Garden Mound where guests will be welcomed by enchanting string music as they sip on champagne and enjoy decadent hors d’oeuvres. Trumpets will then cue guests to proceed to a lavish dining experience in a beautifully decorated pavilion that includes an exquisite four-course lunch catered by Thierry’s Catering, Lanson champagne and wines by Chateau D’Esclans. Gift bags will be provided courtesy of Neiman Marcus Coral Gables. The Vizcayan’s Preservation Luncheon, inspired by the Central Park Conservancy’s “Hat luncheon” held each year in New York, was founded by Norma Quintero in 2009 during her term as president of the Vizcayans in an effort to raise money to protect the estate’s viewshed. All proceeds from this and all Vizcayans events currently benefit a comprehensive restoration plan for Vizcaya’s buildings, gardens and outdoor statuary. Individual tickets are $300 and tables (for ten) are $3,000. For more information and to purchase tickets call 305.856.4866 ext. 3 or email rsvp@vizcayans.org.  

By: Mary Jo Shore and Maryanne Salvat

Julien Farel Salon and Spa

The name Julien Farel has long been synonymous with beautiful hair

among Manhattanites, jet setters, celebrities and the like. Serving clients for twelve years at his Madison Avenue Flagship as well as Julien Farel 5th Ave, where he has launched JF Express, the world’s first anti-aging blow dry bar, Farel has always offered an unparalleled beauty experience. Farel has added another fashionable city to his roster with the recent opening of Julien Farel Salon and Spa.  Hot off of his sixth year as the official stylist of the U.S. Tennis Open, the opening of Julien Farel Miami seemed like a natural next step for this elite brand and marks the first freestanding Julien Farel Salon outside of the Big Apple.

A master and innovator in the art of cutting hair has also conquered the world of hair care as well. The complete range of Julien Farel Haircare is used throughout the salon and available for purchase. Farel utilizes A2B Technology to create the most effective anti-aging treatment for your hair.

In addition to styling and nail services (cuts and blowouts starting at $100) guests of Julien Farel Salon and Spa are also invited to indulge in a variety of personalized services performed by some of the most highly trained beauty professionals in the world. These include: therapeutic massages from astructural masseuse to help with body alignment, customized facials featuring Image Skincare, natural

peels, Brazilian and American body waxing, eyelash tinting and extensions, Julien Farel hair extensions (starting at $950), and Brazilian Blow out Keratin treatments.

Indulge at Julien Farel:  200 South Biscayne Blvd., 305.372.1278.

The Dirty Dutch Model Beach Volleyball Tournament

The Dirty Dutch Model Beach Volleyball Tournament (MBVT) presented by Bimini Bay Resort in association with the National Volleyball League (NVL) will make its 4^th annual debut on 8^th & Ocean Drive on February 9 and 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. MBVT is a public & free event where all of the top modeling agencies in Miami get together and form co-ed teams and compete in this thrilling 2-day tournament. For the 2nd consecutive year, MBVT has partnered with the NVL & the some of the top pro beach volleyball athletes. These professionals will be on site at the event coaching each of the agency teams as well as participating in live exhibition matches. The official swimwear of MBVT, Beach Bunny Swimwear, will be hosting a pre-event model agency fitting party on February 7 at 6:00 p.m. at the Beach Bunny store. Participating models will be outfitted for the tournament and guests can enjoy cocktails & live music. Open to the public. The official kickoff event will take place at Miami’s newest hotspot, owned by EMM Group, SL Miami located inside the James Royal Palm on Friday, February 8 2013 starting at 11:00 p.m.

Chinese New Year Celebration at Mandarin Oriental, Miami

In keeping with its exotic oriental roots, Mandarin Oriental, Miami is hosting a vibrant Chinese New Year celebration on Friday, February 8, to usher in the year of the snake in grand style. Guests will enjoy unforgettable dining experiences in the hotel’s two distinguished restaurants – Azul, the signature restaurant featuring the eclectic cuisine of Chef Jacob Anaya and Café Sambal, the elegant waterfront Asian restaurant.  Captivating lion dance performances, Asian ribbon dancers and Chinese calligraphy demonstrations will add to the excitement. The spectacular evening begins at 7:00 p.m. with a lively champagne reception at the hotel’s stunning pool deck.  Following the reception, guests can choose to dine at Azul or Café Sambal and enjoy festive set menus brimming with Chinese delicacies. The cost for the Chinese New Year event is $85.00 for a three-course family style menu at Café Sambal and $35.00 for children ages 6 to 12.  The cost is $135.00 for a four-course set menu at Azul. Prices are per person, plus tax and gratuity and include champagne reception. For more information or to make reservations call 305.913.8358.  

By: Maryanne Salvat

Meet The Ladies Of Manure 2013 at Cafeina Wynwood

The Fertile Earth Foundation,a local environmental non-profit organization, will officially launch its newest fundraising initiative: The Ladies of Manure 2013 calendar, next Friday, January 25 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the art gallery at Cafeina Wynwood Lounge. The $25 calendar – available as of recently online – is comprised of colorfulshots like the ones below and are aimed at getting readers  to re-think waste. Guests will have an opportunity to purchase calendars during the launch party, and the Fertile Earth Foundation will also stage a silent auction showcasing large canvas-sized prints of images from the calendar. Happy hour specials also available and include $2 sliders, $3 brews. RSVP to ladiesofManure@taraink.com.

The Art of Shaving

The Art of Shaving’s “Brotherhood of Shaving” will grant elite members access to the private Friends & Family shopping event where they can save 20% off all The Art of Shaving products.  Perfect Shave Rewards Member’s will receive 20% off their entire purchase when they shop in stores or on-line starting January 25 through the 27 with the experts that developed the science behind the perfect shave. The Art of Shaving helps men transform their daily and often dreaded task of shaving from a chore into a luxurious ritual. Sign up with the elite “Brotherhood” at   to receive access to the exclusive sale starting Friday, January 25, as well as information on upcoming events and promotions.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s Annual Valentine’s Day Concert

Jazz has often been lauded as the music of love. On Thursday, February 14 at 7:00 p.m., guests can immerse themselves in the romantic sounds of jazz by the legendary musician Arturo Sandoval amidst a lush tropical landscape at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s annual Valentine’s Day Concert. See the garden lit up like never before in this event that is sure to warm the hearts of young and old alike. 

Guests can set up their own blankets and picnic baskets on the Garden House Lawn, or they can reserve private tables that include wine and a candlelit dinner provided by Macy’s Catering. The menu features hors d’oeuvres, a buffet with fresh salads and local vegetables, a meat carving station, and sumptuous desserts. VIP admission, including table and dinner reservations, is $150 per member and $175 per non-member.  

Originally from Cuba, Arturo Sandoval is a Grammy Award-winning musician and composer known for his performances of jazz and classical music. He is a renowned trumpet player and often incorporates Latin influences into traditional jazz.

Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the concert begins at 7:00 p.m., rain or shine.  

General admission is $60 for members, $75 for non-members, $25 for students with ID, $20 for ages 6-18, and free for ages 5 and under. VIP admission is $150 for members and $175 for non-members. Tickets can be purchased online via ExtremeTixor by phone at 305-667-1651, ext. 3391.

Barefoot and Pregnant Getaway

You don’t have be royalty like the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge or money makers like Kim and Kanye to celebrate a new addition to the family. The Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort is rolling out the blue and pink carpet so couples can enjoy pre baby rest and relaxation while taking a refresher course in romance. The Barefoot and Pregnant all-inclusive package treats mom and pop to a two night/ three day getaway starting at $650, right before diaper duties begin. Couples will enjoy an oceanfront suite, a mama and papa pampering session under a private beachfront tiki cabana including dual, therapeutic,  Aveda Elemental Nature Massages, luxurious mom-icures and pop-icures,  complimentary mocktails, dinner at Kitchen 305, the resort’s onsite restaurant featuring those kooky combinations mother’s crave, all-you-can eat dessert bar, private prenatal yoga sessions by certified and licensed yoga instructors at Ayama Yoga, access to the hotel’s fitness center, steam room, swimming pools and more…  

Romantic Weekend at Newport Beachside Hotel and Resort 

The Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort is offering a romantic weekend package for couples looking to getaway for the holiday.  Enjoy a luxurious all-inclusive 2 night/3 day escapade priced at $650. Couples will enjoy an oceanfront suite, tantric Aveda Massage under a private beachfront tiki cabana, dinner at Kitchen 305,  the resort’s onsite modern day supper club featuring American-eclectic cuisine and live entertainment, complimentary mimosas at breakfast, access to the hotel’s fitness center, steam room, swimming pool and more. For those in search of a one-day getaway, The Seven Seas Spa & Salon is offering a romantic spa package. Couples are treated to tantric Aveda Elemental Nature massages while sipping free flowing champagne and dinner at Kitchen 305 from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday for $100.

PULSE 2.0: Late Night at the New World Symphony

On Friday, January 18, New World Symphony presents a revamping of one of its most popular series with PULSE 2.0: Late Night at the New World Symphony, featuring Miami’s DJ Sean Drake and world renowned Miami native soprano, Elaine Alvarez at 9:30 p.m. The campus will morph into a high-energy lounge and nightclub, feeding innovative performances into the crowd. DJ Drake will merge electronic beats with the American and Latin American selections performed by New World Symphony’s Fellows. NWS’ SunTrust Pavilion will transform into “Pulse Unplugged,” where Fellows will perform ensemble pieces with no amplification for a 15-minute concert. Admission is complimentary for Friends of NWS members; Non-members $25. Contact the NWS box office for more information at 305.673.3331.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s 7^th Annual International Chocolate Festival

Celebrate all things chocolate at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s 7^th Annual International Chocolate Festival, sponsored by Whole Foods Market and AT&T U-Verse, on Friday, January 25  through Sunday, January 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Enjoy a decadent three days of cooking demonstrations, lectures, plant sales and – of course – lots of chocolate sampling. Stop by the Edible Garden to find out how to make chocolate from scratch. Take home a cacao or coffee plant at the Plant Sale and start making your own delicious treats. Relax at the Chocolate Spa with mini massages and manicures or attend a yoga class. Travel through the Rainforest, Conservatory, Tropical Fruit Pavilion, and Garden House on the Choco Walk to smell chocolate-scented orchids, taste chocolates from around the world, and participate in the interactive demonstration “From Bean to Bar” presented by the Historic Division of Mars. Don’t forget to walk through the new DiMare Science Village, which includes the Wings of the Tropics butterfly exhibit. This year’s festival is sure to delight the chocolate lover in all of us.  For nonmembers, admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, and $12 for children 6-17. Those who walk, bike, or take public transportation receive $5 off adult admission and $2 off child admission. Those with a Military ID have free admission, with $20 for their spouses and $10 for their children.

One Split Second Event in Miami to Benefit Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation 

One Split Second Benefit will take place on Saturday, February 2 from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. at the Gibson Miami Showroom. Over 200 guests and Miami area tastemakers will join together to support the Reeve Foundation, while enjoying the music of  Ed Kowalczyk and the rock and roll photography of Alan Roth. Tickets are $50.00 and include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and live music. To attend, register online at www.ChristopherReeve.org/OneSecond or call 800. 225.0292. 

Gala in the Garden 

Gala in the Garden, the annual “social event of the season, arrives at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden on Saturday, February 2, at 6:30 p.m. Now in its 20^th year, the black-tie event is one of the most sought fundraisers of the year, with all proceeds supporting programs in conservation science, education, horticulture and collection management. The theme for this year is Botanical Tapestry. The night will begin with a cocktail reception and silent auction at the Shehan Visitor Center. Guests then proceed to the exquisitely lit and decorated Lakeside Marquee surrounded by a tropical paradise for an unforgettable night of first-class diningand dancing to the sounds of The Soul Survivors Orchestra. The stunning décor and delectable dinner is provided by Le Basque, cocktails provided by GREY GOOSE Vodka. Individual tickets start at $600, and tables for ten can be reserved for $6,000. To purchase tickets contact Susannah Shubin at sshubin@fairchildgarden.org or call 305.667.1651, extension 3375.

For more information on Gala in the Garden, visit www.fairchildgarden.org. 

Cycle for Survival 

On February 2, join the battle against rare cancers by registering to ride with your friends and family at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center’s Cycle for Survival, which will be held at Founding Partner Equinox Fitness Club’s Coral Gables location. Cycle for Survival is the national indoor team cycling event that has raised more than $18 million in six years and is driving research led by MSKCC into rare cancers, such as sarcoma, pancreatic and ovarian cancers. Teams register to ride for a four hour shift, with a maximum of eight riders per bike. Teams may register multiple bikes. The event also features complimentary fitness classes, massages and children’s activities. To register and obtain more information please visit www.cycleforsurvival.org.

2^nd Annual Wine, Women & Shoes 

On Thursday, February 7 at 10:00 a.m., Criselda Breene, Shannon Hori, and Carole Pimentel will host the 2^nd Annual Wine, Women & Shoes at the Coral Gables Country Club. This fabulous event provides an opportunity for women of all generations to slip into their stilettos and join together for shopping and fun with the common purpose of supporting world-class care at Miami Children’s Hospital. While the event is sold out, we encourage you to make a donation by contacting:  Wine Women & Shoes is a highly successful national fundraising event platform that offers sponsors a unique opportunity to place businesses in front of an ideal but hard to reach demographic: affluent, savvy women. Be there. Be fabulous. For more information and ticket pricing contact Jeanne Kushner at 786.624.2986 or jkushner@mchf.org.