By: Maryanne Salvat

Beachwear Bash at Bliss Spa   

Just in time for summer, Shortcuts to Fabulous, the go-to blog for all things fabulous, presents the Beachwear Bash at Bliss Spa at the W Hotel on Thursday, May 3, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. Hosted by Electric Blogarella, Ginger Harris, guests will shop swimwear by Kariza, beachwear by Aquarius and jewelry by Septimo, while receiving complimentary mini-spa treatments courtesy of Bliss Spa. Indulge in free hand massages, rapid rub massage and energizing vitamized oxygen spray facial treatment while imbibing on cocktails provided by Grey Goose; to attend or for more information contact: RSVP@shortcutstofabulous.com.

Miami Surf Archive Project Annual Fundraising Party

The Miami Surf Archive Project and the Miami Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation will be hosting their annual fundraising party on Saturday, May 5 at 7:00 p.m., at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens. The Miami Surf Archive Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, presentation and promotion of surfing in Miami-Dade for the appreciation and education of current and future generations around the world. The Surfrider foundation is an environmental non-profit dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans, waves and beaches. In celebration of Cinco de Mayo, a screening premier of Rumors: a Cinematographic journey into Mexico’s deepest surf scene will be shown, as well as a presentation of rare, vintage surf footage from 1970s Miami Beach, courtesy of filmmaker Bruce Walker. The evening’s activities will include: music by local artist Mike Maytin; a raffle that includes a new surfboard; a ticketed bar serving beer, wine, liquor and non-alcoholic beverages; catering provided by local food truck Gastropod; and various multi-media stations displaying Miami’s surf history.  Admission is free, drinks and raffle tickets are $5.00.

13th Annual Hugs & Kisses Fashion Show

On Sunday, May 6, at 10:00 a.m., join the Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation at The Ritz-Carlton South Beach for the 13th Annual Hugs & Kisses Fashion Show: How Sweet it is, featuring children from infants to age 18 modeling fashions from Peace Love World. Attendees will enjoy a gourmet lunch, silent auction, marketplace, entertainment from Hip Hop Kidz and a children’s fashion show highlighting both grateful parents and local children – and of course, a variety of sweet surprises. Jeanine Mason, winner of the 5th season of So You Think You Can Dance, is scheduled to serve as Fashion Show Mistress of Ceremonies. The event will be featuring some of Miami Children’s Hospital’s Bald, Brave, Beautiful™ pediatric cancer patients as part of our efforts to support and enhance their self-esteem and self-image by eliminating the stigma and bullying that coincide with baldness, while raising funds and awareness for Miami Children’s Hospital. The event also showcases the 5th Annual I Make a Difference Awards, honoring outstanding student philanthropists who have made a significant positive impact in the lives of others, and the 2nd Annual Thank You for Making a Difference Award which recognizes a community activist who sets a positive example for children. This year’s honoree is Sandra Muvdi, founder of the Jessica June Children’s Cancer Foundation. CBS 4 Anchor Shannon Hori is scheduled to return as Awards Mistress of Ceremonies. For more information or tickets visit mchf.org/hugsandkisses.

10th Annual Honey Shine Hats Off Luncheon

On Tuesday, May 8, the Honey Shine Mentoring program celebrates ten years of happiness, love, and good luck with an Asian inspired Hats Off luncheon. More than 600 guests and young girls will gather at Jungle Island for the highly anticipated event; hosted by founder Tracy Wilson Mourning and co-chairs Cathy Blank and Monisha Melwani, the mid-day luncheon includes an annual awards presentation, a fashion show featuring children’s apparel provided by Gap, Aleren, and Bloomingdale’s, and a silent auction with more than 120 items that include jewelry, sports memorabilia, and popular brand accessories like Louis Vuitton, Alexander McQueen, and Prada, to name a few. All proceeds benefit the Honey Shine Mentoring Program. Tickets to the annual benefit start at $125. RSVP required by contacting Isabella at (305) 854-2444 or by email at RSVP@honeyshine.org. For more information on the Honey Shine Mentoring Program and membership opportunities, visit HONEYSHINE.org.

Iran Issa-Khan Book Signing at the Webster 

On Thursday, April 19, join the Webster boutique for a celebratory event in honor of famed photographer and artist Iran Issa-Khan. Issa-Khan will be signing her first book entitled Photographs on the Second Floor Salon from 7 to 9 p.m. There are a limited number of books with a special print available for purchase. Grey Goose vodka is providing the cocktails and catering will be provided by the talented Michelle Areces of Petit Pois.  RSVP to iran@thewebster.com. 

Color A Cause 

The Color Queen, Joey Mugica, is proud to announce the first ever COLOR A CAUSE, on Thursday, April 19. The event will take place at Pearl, from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The originally inspired images will feature and honor some of Miami’s most dynamic and renowned women, including successful philanthropists, businesswomen, journalists, socialites, reality stars, artists, designers and entertainers. COLOR A CAUSE will benefit Dress for Success Miami, which provides professional attire for economically disadvantaged men and women. There is a suggested minimum $20 entry ticket payable at the door during the night of the event. Miami’s diva extraordinaire, Ms. Elaine Lancaster, will provide the evening’s entertainment. To prepare the ladies for this momentous occasion, Tim Quinn, International Celebrity Face Designer for Giorgio Armani Cosmetics and his team will be available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bal Harbour from 12 to 5 p.m., to create that special Color Look for the evening;  honorees and guests will be gifted a $25 gift card available at the counter. 10% of the day sales from the Gift Card will benefit Dress For Success Miami.  RSVP to rsvp@coloracause.com. 

Young Patrons Happy Hour – 2^nd Annual Great Energy Challenge 

On Thursday, April 19, The Young Patrons challenge you to an energy happy hour. Join the YP’s for networking and interactive challenges to see who the greenest young professionals in Miami are. Food trucks will be at the event catering to the crowd, 21 and older. A $15 entry fee will charged for admission and will include open bar and entrance to the museum. For more information, contact Adriana Oliva at 305-646-4248 or aoliva@miamisci.org. 

2012 American Cancer Society Gala

The 2012 American Cancer Society Gala will take place on Saturday, April 21, at the elegant InterContinental Miami. About 500 influential leaders of Miami’s social and corporate communities will gather for a night of elegance, exquisite food, breathtaking décor, and live entertainment. The cocktail reception and silent auction will start at 7:00 p.m., followed by dinner and dancing at 8:30 p.m. Chairpersons for this year’s black-tie fundraiser are Lourdes and Felipe Valls and Co-Chairs are Madeline and Pedro Munilla. Marile and Jorge Luis Lopez will serve as Honorary Co-Chairs. The silent auction will feature items such as airline tickets, jewelry, golf packages, sports collector’s items, spa packages, and couture fashion. During the live auction, guests will be challenged to raise money for the American Cancer Society’s Reaching Out to Cancer Kids (R.O.C.K.) Programs. Every year, the gala presents a testimonial showcasing R.O.C.K. Programs. For more information contact Carmen Piles, Gala Manager, at 305-779-2861 or carmen.piles@cancer.org. 

Earth Day Activities  

Miami Science Museum 

On Saturday, April 21 beginning at 12 p.m. the Miami Science Museum is encouraging members of the community to take its “Great Energy Challenge” and celebrate Mother Earth this Earth Day weekend. At the 2^nd Annual Great Energy Challenge, members of the community will form teams to spin, dance, yo-yo, read and scavenge their way around the Museum’s Energy Tracker exhibit, as well as create a “green” structure out of the Museum’s recycled junk. The top two teams will then face off in an Environmental Jeopardy Brain Challenge, which will decide the Green Champion! Members of the first place team will take home Nokia C5-03 Smartphones.  Members of the community can gather up family and friends to form a team. Also, community teams (including teams of middle, high school & college students, community organizations and non-profits) and corporate teams can participate. Four people per team, ages 8 and up. Team registration begins at 11 a.m. on the day of the event. Event sponsorship opportunities are available at www.miamisci.org. For sponsorship opportunities, visit www.miamisci.org. For more information about the event and to see if your team qualifies, contact Adriana Oliva 305-646-4248 or aoliva@miamisci.org.

Earth Day at Fairchild 

On Monday, April 23, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden will be celebrating Earth Day granting free admission to the public. Enjoy 83 acres of tropical paradise right in your own backyard! This is the perfect opportunity to walk Fairchild’s grounds, have a family picnic, admire the monumental sculptures of Will Ryman and Dale Chihuly or simply sit on a bench and read your favorite book. In addition to free admission, guests can take advantage of the following special offers on April 23: walking and tram tours, 50% membership for new members only, and 10% off for membership renewals and rejoining members. 

Kickoff the Great American Bake Sale

To kickoff this year’s Great American Bake Sale and Taste of the Nation, local chefs from around Miami and Fort Lauderdale including Allen Susser, Paula Da Silva from 1500 Degrees, Andre Bienvenu of Joe’s Stone Crab, and Clay Conley of Buccan are getting together to fill boxes with food for the hungry at Feeding South Florida from 10 a.m. to noon on Monday, April 23. Several food trucks will also be in attendance to serve lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The public is invited to volunteer alongside these chefs. To RSVP, email jbalhon@strength.org.

By: Maryanne Salvat

21st Annual Reach for the Stars Gala

Actors’ Playhouse and Lexus of Kendall Host the 21st Annual Reach for the Stars Gala Auction at the Miracle Theatre on Saturday, April 14. Attendees will have the chance to bid on over $300,000 worth of live and silent auction items while enjoying exquisite fare provided by 30 of Coral Gables’ finest restaurants and an open bar sponsored by Bacardi U.S.A. and Premier Beverage Company. Items for bid include international business class airline tickets, worldwide hotel travel packages and cruises, exclusive celebrity wine dinners at popular South Florida restaurants, jewelry, golf packages, fine art, home decor, sports collectors items, spa visits, objets d’art, couture clothing, membership gift certificates, and more. CBS4’s Former Chief Meteorologist Bob Soper, the official celebrity auctioneer for the past 21 years, will conduct the live auction with Artistic Director David Arisco. The popular auction is the major fundraising event for Actors’ Playhouse each year with funds going to the capital improvements of the historic Miracle Theatre and the operating costs of Actors’ Playhouse’s 25th Anniversary Season in 2012-2013. Items can be viewed on line at www.actorsplayhouse.org. Cost for the event is $150 per person, which includes gourmet dining, open bar sponsored by Bacardi U.S.A. and Premier Beverage Company, entertainment, silent auction and live auction; for tickets, call 305.444.9293, or purchase online at www.actorsplayhouse.org.

Friends of the NWS Season Finale

On Saturday, April 14, join the Friends of the New World Symphony at 9:00 p.m. for a sizzling night under the stars featuring the 8-piece Afro-Latin World Beat Sensation, Lanzallamas Monofonica, sumptuous light bites and cocktails courtesy of GREY GOOSE Vodka. Contact Nathalie Cadet at New World Symphony to purchase tickets, Nathalie.Cadet-James@nws.edu or call 305.428.6733.

Pool Party with Mario Lopez and GARNIER FRUCTIS

On Sunday, April 15, GARNIER FRUCTIS has teamed up with Mario Lopez to host a pool party to celebrate their newest launches from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. Held at the renowned Fontainebleau Miami Beach, guests will soak up the sunshine at the hotel’s Arkadia Pool while being treated to hair styling services, mini-massages and acupressure treatments. Garnier Fructis celebrity stylist, Marc Mena, will also be on site leading the styling cabanas where guests will choose between four different beach styles using Garnier Fructis products. For more information, visit www.garnier.com.

Joe’s Boutique Opens in Aventura Mall

Joe’s, premium denim and contemporary lifestyle brand, establishes a presence in Miami after opening boutiques in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and Atlanta. The new retail location will launch its grand opening event for the brand’s sixth US location on Saturday, April 21, in Aventura Mall. The boutique will open to the public with the brands stylish Spring/Summer 2012 collection as well as entertainment by DJ Dutch.

A Night at the Museum

The Bass Museum of Art will host its annual fundraiser, “A Night at the Museum,” on Thursday, April 26, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. The event is expected to attract more than 500 guests who will receive a private preview of “Charles LeDray: Bass Museum of Art,” curated by Bass Museum of Art Adjunct Curator, Steven Holmes. Artist Charles LeDray will be in attendance. Guests will explore the new exhibition while enjoying hors d’oeuvres by TiramesU; cocktails & refreshments from Mandarine Napoleon, Kanon Organic Vodka and Perrier; desserts by Stella’s Sweet Shoppe; and beats by Vida’s house DJ. Attendees will also be introduced to an innovative silent auction of custom art experiences, including a studio visit and catered lunch with artist Carlos Betancourt and a curator-led art day in New York City. Admission to the fundraising event is $175 for two and includes a Mummy Level Membership or renewal to the Bass Museum of Art for one year. Rubens Level Members or above receive complimentary admission for two, while those members below may upgrade. To RSVP, email rsvp@bassmuseum.org. For membership upgrades, email dwolpert@bassmuseum.org, visit www.bassmuseum.org, call 786.800.6302.

By: Maryanne Salvat

All Hail Queen Lounge

Queen Lounge, an intimate cocktail and gastro-lounge will celebrate its official grand opening on Thursday, April 5. The 4,000-square-foot venue pays homage to the power and glamour of women in art, music and fashion throughout history. Founded by European nightlife savant Sanaa Moussaoui and managing partner, Miami native Maria Ortiz, the multi-room venue features superior handcrafted cocktails by mixology master Thomas Merolla and small plates by Executive Chef Matthew Goldberg. The lounge boasts a 30-item cocktail menu featuring “Timeless Truths” and Queen Lounge Signature Cocktails, created by head mixologist Thomas Merolla, a previous contributor to the illustrious bar menus of staple South Beach hotels including Delano, Mondrian, and W South Beach. Queen Lounge is open seven days a week from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. The kitchen is open until 10:00 p.m. Guests can unwind and enjoy $5 cocktails and tapas from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. daily during The Ultimate Happy Hour. For private bookings and advance reservations, contact 305.397.8056, info@queenlounge.com or visit www.queenloungemiami.com.

Operation HOPE TOTE

Miami Rescue Mission will be hosting Operation HOPE TOTE, their annual Easter/Passover event, on Friday, April 6. The event is open to thousands of homeless and needy families in the Miami area. The goal of Operation HOPE TOTE is to provide basic, personal hygiene items to thousands of needy men, women, and children in our communities starting this Easter and Passover Season. Items needed include: toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, shampoo, deodorant, new underwear, new socks, disposable razors, diapers, baby wipes, sanitary napkins, and lotion. Please note, the Capponi Group will be accepting hygiene products and/or monetary donations to purchase the items for the HOPE TOTE. To learn more about the Operation HOPE TOTE, visit: http://miamirescuemission.com/hopetote.htm. Drop off products to 228 5th Street Miami Beach, Florida 33139. If you have any questions, call 305.695.4410.

3rd Annual Golden Key 5K

The 3rd annual Golden Key 5K to celebrate heart and skin health will be held this Saturday, April 7. The event is a collaborative effort between University of Miami undergraduate and medical students. UM dermatologists will be on site giving free skin cancer screenings and all proceeds will go to support melanoma skin cancer research at the University of Miami and a program called Team for Life that helps get life-saving heart defibrillators out into Miami. The run/walk will take place at Crandon Park South on Key Biscayne. Race day registration and packet pick-up begin at 6:30am and the race start time is 8:00am. Private skin screening stations will open after the race. An awards ceremony will also be held after the race. All participants receive free t-shirts. Early online registration is $20 for individuals and $15 for UM students. Race day registration is $25 for individuals and $20 for UM students. For more information, and to register, visit www.GoldenKey5k.com.

The District Factory 

In honor of Andy Warhol’s famed studio “The Factory”, The District Factory, an evening shopping event & mash-up, set to launch Saturday, April 14, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. in the Miami Design District, during Art & Design Night, shines a spotlight on the emerging designers and artists who are single-handedly manufacturing the hottest trends. Partners of this eagerly anticipated launch include Miami Design District, MIAMI Magazine, and Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables. Receiving a portion of the evening’s proceeds is Dress for Success Miami. To learn more about The District Factory, visit www.DISRTICTFACTORY.com.

Food and Garden Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Come see what’s cooking at Fairchild during a celebration of fresh fruits and vegetables and the gorgeous gardens they grow in on Saturday and Sunday, April 14 and 15. Gather new tips and recipes from our popular culinary demonstrations taught by local chefs using local products. Go green at the farmers’ market where local growers showcase the best organic fruits, vegetables and herbs available in South Florida. Sample a variety of spring beers and summer ales at the Beer Garden. There’ll even be a Spring Flower Market where you can buy beautiful fresh cut flowers! All weekend, children will enjoy hands-on activities and special culinary programs just for them. Invite the whole family to come out and learn how to cook and enjoy food that is fabulously fresh, healthy and in season! For more information visit: www.fairchildgarden.org .

Driven to Dine

Driven to Dine is a one-of-a-kind, luxurious dining experience taking place on Saturday, April 14. It kicks off with an exclusive cocktail reception where guests will sample an array of wines and spirits compliments of Total Wine, enjoy delectable appetizers provided by Le Cordon Bleu, and participate in a live auction. After the reception, guests will gather into groups of 8 and select a sealed envelope containing the name of one of several top restaurants in South Florida. With their destination unknown, diners will adjourn to a stretch limousine, which will ferry them to the restaurant for an elegant multi-course, heart healthy dinner sure to please their palates. After an amazing meal, limos will return guests to the place of origin. The FHRI hand-selected some of South Florida’s most prestigious restaurants to partner with in this year’s Driven to Dine. They include: 1500˚ at Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach, CRAVE, db Bistro Moderne, Edge, Steak & Bar at the Four Seasons Miami, Flemings Prime Steakhouse, La Cofradia, RED The Steakhouse, Tudor House, Truluck’s and J&G Grill at the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort. Tickets for Driven to Dine cost $5,000 per limo, which seats 8 guests; or $625 per person. the cocktail reception, at a private residence, will begin at 5 p.m. Tickets cost $5,000 per limo, which seats 8 guests, or $625 per person; to purchase tickets visit www.heartofachef.org.

The Third Annual Dream Makers Gala

The Foundation of Debbie’s Dream (CSC) will host the third annual Dream Makers Gala on Saturday, April 21, at the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa in Hollywood beginning at 7:00 p.m. Co-Chairs Susie Alvarez Cope, Jason Chalik, and Ani Solarana hope to exceed the $180,000 raised at last year’s Gala. “Expect the Unexpected” is the evening’s theme. The event will begin with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and silent auctions followed by dinner, dancing, fabulous live auctions, and award presentations. Lisa Petrillo, Entertainment Reporter at CBS4, will be the guest speaker. Award recipients being honored at this year’s Gala for their dedication and commitment to CSC’s mission include Michael A. Choti, MD, from Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Mary Lynn Swartz, former CEO of Westside Regional Medical Center; Jennifer Kapp, CSC Board of Directors; and Meredith Clements, Society Scene Editor of the Sun-Sentinel. Tickets for the Gala are $175 per person, and sponsorships range in price from $600 to $25,000. To become a sponsor or to purchase tickets, call 954.475.1200 or email Events@CantStomachCancer.org.

The Miami Marlins are set to kick off their historic 2012 baseball season against the defending World Champion St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday, April 4 at Marlins Park. The inaugural Miami Marlins Opening Night at the state-of-the-art Marlins Park will feature three fan giveaways: a Commemorative Lanyard presented by Miccosukee Resort & Gaming and Pepsi, a Tic Tac Pack (to be utilized in fan participation with a special pregame ceremony) and a commemorative Opening Night Marlins Playbill. A special edition of the Marlins Magazine will also be available throughout the ballpark. The first pitch for Opening Night is set for 7:05 P.M. and ESPN will carry the nationally-televised game. Ballpark gates at Marlins Park will open at 4:00 P.M. and on-site parking garages will open at 3:00 P.M. For parking and transportation information, fans can visit www.marlins.com/parking. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats no later than 6:15 P.M. for the inaugural Opening Night pregame ceremonies, with never-before-seen special events presented by 19 time Grammy award winning producer and Miami’s very own Emilio Estefan. Pregame ceremonies will include a video and on-field tribute to Miami, full team lineups for the Marlins and Cardinals, the debut of the new Marlins theme song, Marlins Tonight, legendary musician Jose Feliciano performing the National Anthem, a Fireworks Spectacular, a flyover with four F-16’s from Homestead Air Reserve Base and much more.As part of the historic celebration, MLB Commissioner Bud Selig and Marlins Owner Jeffrey H. Loria, together with Miami-Dade County and City of Miami Commissioners and representatives will be part of a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11:00 A.M., on the West Plaza. Opening Night at Marlins Park will also include a pregame party on the West Plaza from 4 P.M. to 7 P.M., featuring live music on the Main Stage with renowned artists. Fans are encouraged to stay for the post-game party on the West Plaza with live music and entertainment, immediately following the game. The game will be broadcasted on WAXY 790 AM and WAQI 710AM (Spanish).

By: Maryanne Salvat 

24 Hour Pet Adoption Match-A-Thon 

On Friday, March 30, join the Humane Society of Greater Miami, Miami-Dade Animal Services and The Cat Network, Inc., together with several local rescue groups for the very first 24 hour adopt-a-pet marathon where hundreds of deserving animals will be available for adoption. Refreshments and entertainment will be provided at the park for all ages.  The around the clock adoption event will begin at 11:59 p.m. at Tropical Park; Adoptions will start at $30. Free parking is available; admission is free. To get involved or for more information about the ASPCA ‘Mega Match-a-thon’ event, please visit www.humanesocietymiami.org, e-mail dani@humanesocietymiami.org or call 305.749.1825.

 Harding Dinner Series at 9517 

Chow Down Grill’s Chef Joshua Marcus, who has perfected his skills at BLT Steak, Timo and China Grill, and John Donovan, owner of the current “it-bar”, Blackbird Ordinary, have created a one-week-only gastronomic extravaganza that will temporarily take over the Surfside space you may know as Chow Down Grill. At the culinary helm is Chef Jeremiah Bullfrog of Gastropod fame, who will be “experimenting” with foods and flavors of the moment including the ubiquitous Beet Composition: black sesame soil, hibiscus gastrique, wood sorrel; Arepa 2012: popcorn milk pudding, queso blanco; and Cancha Duck Pastrami: pumpernickel streusel, mustard seed caviar, Brussels kraut. Serving up 10-20 tempting, thought-provoking dishes, guests can expect to see anything from green tomato chips to tubes of dough served with Chinese sausage cream. Beginning Friday, March 30, this exclusive “by reservation only” dinner will seat 22 people per seating; two seating per night 5:00 or 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 or 10:00 p.m., ending April 5. For just $79, each guest will have the opportunity to try some of the boldest dishes on the Miami culinary circuit to date, while getting up close and personal with one of the most innovative teams around.And for those who do not make reservations in time – there’s no need to worry, while the chance to partake in the “official” tasting dinner is off the table for now, there will be more than 20 seats made available nightly, where guests can eat from a special ala carte menu. This is just the first of many pop ups to be held here. Be sure to stay tuned for the announcement of future pop-up dining experiences that will a part of the “destined to be unforgettable” Harding Dinner Series at 9517. Visit www.hardingdinnerseries.com to make your reservation, for an up-to-date schedule of events, and more information on local guest chefs. For more information, visit www.hardingdinnerseries.com or contact the Harding Diner Series at 305.674.1674.

Flash Mob America with Timbaland 

On Friday, March 30 at 7:30 PM, Flash Mob America (www.flashmobamerica.com) will make history with Timbaland, other featured celebs, and world renowned Choreographer, Fatima Robinson, with a special flash mob, to be shown on a global outlet that will be seen by at least 100 million people worldwide. The flash mob will take place at a secret location in Miami (Rehearsals same day at 3:00 p.m.; Details to come after signing on. Those who wish to participate can sign up at: http://www.flashmobamerica.com/event-registration/timbalandfatima-robinson-flash-mob/.

The Ludus Athletics Model Beach Volleyball Tournament 

This weekend join Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookie of the Year 2012 Nina Agdal for the 3rd Annual Ludus Athletics Model Beach Volleyball Tournament on Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1 on 11th and Ocean Drive. The event is open to the public where all of the top modeling agencies will form co-ed teams and compete in this amazing 2-day tournament. This year the tournament has partnered up with the National Volleyball League and their Olympic gold-medal Volleyball athletes will participate in the event by coaching each of these agency teams. Champions, Olympic US qualifiers and number four-ranked team in the world April Ross and Jennifer Kessy will be present at the event as two of the ten pro coaches representing the NVL. Proceeds from the event will benefit Models4Water. Finalists & winners will receive an all expense weekend getaway to the luxurious Bimini Bay Resort and Marina. Here, four teams will compete in a rematch at the resort’s grand opening of Therapy Beach Club, on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world; for more information on the event visit www.modelbeachvolleyball.com. 

The 5th Annual Nautica South Beach Triathlon 

On Sunday, April 1, celebrities, professional athletes, and corporate teams will meet on the sunny shores of South Beach for the 5th Annual Nautica South Beach Triathlon. The highly anticipated race expects to draw more participants than ever as 3,000 participants from over 21 countries will be joining the fierce competition.  The Nautica South Beach Triathlon benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and a portion of the proceeds goes directly to pediatric cancer research.  Last year, the event raised $275,000 for St. Jude and organizers of the Nautica South Beach Triathlon, the sister event to the popular Nautica Malibu Triathlon, are expecting to raise more than last year and already the sign-up and registration numbers have exceeded 2011’s figures. Confirmed celebs participating this year include: Carolina Panther’s running back DeAngelo Williams, Burn Notice’s Jeffrey Donovan, The Today Show’s Natalie Morales, X-Men’s James Marsden, The Office’s Paul Lieberstein, Cougartown’s Josh Hopkins, Pirates of the Caribbean’s Greg Ellis, Traffic Light’s David Denman, and The Finder’s Geoff Stults and Mercedes Masohn, Josie Loren, star of ABC Family’s Make It or Break It, and Jake T. Austin, star of the Emmy winning, Wizards of Waverly Place  and the upcoming Huckleberry Finn.  In addition, pop/R&B singer-songwriter and actress, JoJo, will sing the national anthem; for more information on the triathlon visit www.nauticasobetri.com.

 Trina Turk Luncheon on Gilt Miami 

Gilt’s local curators have put together an all-star line-up of their Miami favorites in dining, beauty, fitness, and fashion as a reflection of member’s top picks. First up this is a Gilt City exclusive event, tickets to the Trina Turk Luncheon and Colores del Verano New Collection Preview Trunk Show Shopping Event on Thursday, April 5 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. The $50 event ticket includes a three-course meal, glass of champagne, non-alcoholic beverages, informal modeling collection and overview and meet-and-greet from Tina herself. Ticket sales are available on Gilt City Miami: http://www.giltcity.com/miami/trinaturkluncheon. 

Cecconi’s  Sunday Brunch

Cecconi’s Miami Beach presents the launch of “Sunday Feast,” the first-ever brunch series at the intimate outdoor restaurant nestled on the ground floor of Soho Beach House beginning at 11:00 a.m. The brunch series will feature an extensive buffet designed by Executive Chef Sergio Sigala and Pastry Chef Oscar Bonelli, along with live music. The indulgent buffet-style spread is comprised of five staple categories featuring new options and older favorites, including an Egg Station, omelet or scrambled, made to order with bacon, avocado and additional accompaniments; Sweets Station, waffles and ricotta pancakes, pastries and fresh-baked croissants, and homemade torta; Raw Bar, oysters, salmon tartar, shrimp and fish salad; Carving Station, complete with roasted beef and pork, quinoa salad, meatballs and macaroni and cheese; and a traditional Cold Cuts spread. The $35* feast includes one complimentary Bellini, or a glass of orange or grapefruit juice. A full a-la-carte cocktail menu is available, as well as tableside Bloody Mary cocktails handcrafted by Cecconi’s mixologists via a roving cart. Reservations are encouraged at 786.507.7902 or miami@cecconisrestaurant.com *Tax and gratuity are additional. The cost includes 50% off valet parking.  

The 18^th annual Bali Ha’i Party 

The 18^th annual Bali Ha’i Party – presented by Grove Village On Grand and Whole Foods Market – will take place Sunday, April 1, 2012, from 5 to 8 p.m. South Florida’s favorite garden party/food & wine fundraiser is held at The Kampong, an exotic botanical oasis in Coconut Grove that offers the perfect setting for the event, which features exquisite wines, champagnes and exotic libations along with tempting culinary samplings from 30 top South Florida restaurants. In addition, a cornucopia of luxurious auction items will be available for bidding by event participants. And for 2012, event producers are thrilled to announce Stephanie Sayfie-Aagaard, social writer for The Miami Herald’s Steph Sez column will be guest emcee. VIP tickets are $250.00 per person and include VIP Lu`au Party at the Point from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. and the Main Event from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. VIP Platinum Tickets for $300.00 include the Main Event and Lu`au Party at the Point plus the Tiki Lounge Party at the Point at 8:00 p.m. Main Event tickets, $150.00 per person ($175.00 per person the day of the event), include main event from 5 to 8 p.m. VIP ticket sales – limited to 250 guests – and VIP Platinum ticket sales – limited to 50 guests – are not available the day of the event. 70% of the cost of tickets is a tax deductible contribution. Complimentary parking with shuttle service for event guests will be provided at Plymouth Congregational Church; for more information visit www.balihaiparty.com.