Happy Anniversary Wine Depot & Bistro 555

In honor of their first anniversary, starting this week until the end of the month, guests who dine at Wine Depot & Bistro 555 (party of four or more required) will receive a free bottle of champagne. Also, this month, Wine Depot & Bistro 555 will host an amazing wine fair. The wine fair will begin on October 27 and will run until November 6. There are over 400 different wines in stock and will be up to 50% off.

Miami Red Dress Fashion Show

The American Heart Association is pleased to step out on the runway for Funkshion’s Fall Fashion Week with its “Miami Red Dress Fashion Show” on Thursday, October 20 at the Setai Hotel. The event, which will celebrate fashion, philanthropy, and culture all in the name of women’s heart health, will begin with the pre-show cocktail hour at 8:00 p.m. and a runway show at 9:00 p.m.  Actor and founder of Music For Your Heart Foundation, Ruben Campbell, will kick-off the fashion show with a special performance. Local celebrities walking the runway for the cause include: Monica Fonseca, Natalia Jimenez, Marysol Patton, Danna Garcia, Candella Ferro and Adriana de Moura. Lissette Gonzalez, meteorologist at CBS4, will serve as the Mistress of Ceremonies. Festivities will continue after the fashion show at the MOMMS Post Show Party at Mokai starting at 11:00 p.m. Reservations are required to attend. For further information, call 305.631.4750.

Spam Allstars at Cafeina 

On Friday, October 21, Cafeina presents Miami’s popular Latin-funk band Spam Allstars. The Grammy nominated group will keep guests on their feet as they dance to an improvisational blend of Latin, funk, and hip-hop music. DJ Erick Paredes will keep the party going into the early hours as guests at the Wynwood lounge enjoy $4 Sam Adams Octoberfests as well as Grey Goose and Jose Cuervo bottle specials.

“Hula-ween” luau at Solé on the Ocean

The ultra-contemporary boutique hotel in Sunny Isles Beach gets “a head” of the holiday with its “Hula-ween” luau on Saturday, October 22 from 5:00 to 10:00pm. For $25 per person, guys and ghouls are invited to celebrate the haunted holiday island-style with a pumpkin carving, paddle boarding, limbo contests (win a weekend stay) and a beachside pig roast, complete with all the Polynesian trimmings. A Mai Tai, valet and ear candy by DJ Dutch and ukulele-clad Aloha Boyz are also included in the price of admission. Festive attire is encouraged and rewarded. For reservations, call 786.923.9300 or email alba@soleoto.com.  

 MCM “Not So Scary Family Halloween Bash”

You don’t have to be spooked to enjoy Halloween! And that’s just the way Miami Children’s Museum (MCM) will celebrate this year with the MCM “Not So Scary Family Halloween Bash” on Sunday, October 23, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. at their Watson Island location. All this while benefiting the MCM’s scholarship programs, and your little ghosts and goblins will have a boo-tiful time as they trick or treat their way around the Museum’s 14 galleries, brave the haunted house, test their knowledge in the mad scientist lab, or create crazed crafts.  Families are bound to have a bewitching time decorating pumpkins donated by Robert Netkin and cupcakes donated by Misha’s Cupcakes!  There will also be face painting, balloon artists, scary music by Rhythm City Productions, silent auction, a costume parade and much, much more. Food is sponsored by Epicure Markets with desserts and snacks from Ghirardelli, VITA COCO, Quaker, A Piece of Cake and Coca-Cola.   Special Packages are available including a Benefactors Family Package for $1,000.00 that includes 12 tickets to the Halloween Bash, Benefactor MCM Membership & a personalized tile on the Museum’s Starfish Stroll; a Members Family Package for $500.00 that includes 10 tickets & MCM Family Membership; and a Family Package for $200.00 that includes 6 tickets. Individual tickets are also available for $50.00 each. For more information call 305.373.KIDS (5437), ext. 142 or visit www.miamichildrensmuseum.org. Please note: The Museum will be closed for this event.

Karaoke for a Cause at Rik Rak Salon

Rik Rak Salon, Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables,  and CBS 4’s Cynthia Demos are teaming up to host the first-ever Karaoke for a Cause, on Thursday, October 27 from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. The contest will bring out Miami’s best amateur voices who will vie for first place, all to raise money to support the CHARLEE Organization. Warm up your vocal cords and prepare your inner Elvis for an evening of exciting competition, Karaoke favorites, tasty food, and raffle prizes. The champion will receive a Rik Rak gift certificate and have a chance to defend their title in the next Karaoke for a Cause competition. Karaoke for a Cause committee members include: Denie Harris, Jamie Rusk, Jorge Estevez, Lissette Gonzalez and Stephanie Demos Brown. Tickets are $30 per person in advance and $40 at the door. Admission price includes complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres. To purchase tickets visit www.charlee.org or call 305.779. 9793.

Best Buddies At The Stage

Best Buddies South Florida is pleased to announce that Buddies at the District presented by the Miami Business Buddies Committee taking place on Thursday, October 27 from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m. Miami finest will come together for an evening of entertainment, food trucks, and friendship. This fabulous fundraiser will be held at the Design District’s trendiest venue, The Stage. Local artists, the Deadly Blank and Space Between Words will energize the crowd to live music while DJ Hottpants will keep everyone moving with a custom set. 300 young professionals and top executives are expected to eat, drink, and network all while supporting a great cause. $35 minimum suggested donation guests are entitled to entrance to the event, complimentary cocktails courtesy of GREY GOOSE Vodka, and a select food truck menu. All the funds raised from Buddies at the District will go towards supporting Best Buddies Miami Programs which positively impact the lives of over 1,000 individuals with and without intellectual disabilities a year.

 A South Beach Star at Books & Books

Local favorite and author James Cubby will be at Books & Books South Beach/Design Within Reach on Thursday, October 13 at 7:00 p.m. for a reading from his new novel, South Beach Star. There will also be a book signing and reception after the reading. Beverages compliments of Delaplaine Champagne. The event will be held at Design Within Reach which is adjacent to Books & Books Lincoln Road.

 Funkshion: Fashion Week Miami Beach 

Funkshion: Fashion Week Miami Beach celebrates its 8th year and 17th season from October18 through October 23. As with every year, FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach fuses music and fashion and like no other city in the world.  MIAMI STYLE! FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach venues include: The Setai Hotel in Miami Beach and The Moore Building in the famed Design District in Miami.   FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach is a four day/evening long event providing an intelligent, innovative platform for progressive and established designers to showcase their collections to media, celebrities, international buyers, and select style makers. For a complete line-up and show listings visit WWW.FASHIONWEEKMIAMI.COM or WWW.FUNKSHION.COM.

Bass Museum of Art Pays Homage to Steve Jobs

The Bass Museum of Art, one of Miami Beach’s key cultural landmarks, pays homage to Steve Jobs, co-founder and former CEO of Apple, Inc., by prominently displaying Apple, a 38 X 38 inch silkscreen piece created by pop artist Andy Warhol. In light of Jobs’ recent death, the museum decided to honor the American inventor by sharing one of its contemporary works with its visitors. Warhol’s Apple is part of the artist’s famous 1985 Ads Portfolio which also includes works featuring brands such as Paramount, Chanel and Volkswagen. George Lindemann Jr., President of the Board of Directors of the Bass Museum of Art, is a fan of both men. “Apple represents the work of two creative geniuses who are no longer physically with us, yet remain very present,” adds Lindemann. Andy Warhol’s Apple is a piece of artwork from the permanent collection of the Bass Museum of Art and will be on view inside the museum’s new Chad Oppenheim designed lobby through Saturday, November 5.  

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force 15th Annual Miami Recognition Dinner

The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is proud to present the 15th Annual Miami Recognition Dinner, sponsored by Wells Fargo, at Fontainebleau Miami Beach on Saturday, October 15. This annual fundraising event honors individuals for their outstanding contributions to the social, cultural, political and humanitarian needs of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. This year’s honorees include local activist and attorney Georg Ketelhohn and Ben Cohen, international sports star and chairman of the Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation, the world’s first anti-bullying organization. The event will also feature a special appearance by actress Pam Grier, star of Showtime’s The L Word: Complete Series, the official stage sponsor for the evening. Tickets to the 15th annual Miami Recognition Dinner are $200 for general admission and $300 for VIP admission (which includes a private VIP cocktail reception and meet & greet prior to the dinner). For ticket information, visit www.thetaskforce.org/miami or call 305.571.1924. Become a fan of the Miami Recognition Dinner on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/MiamiDinner. 

Jazz Brunch at Solé on the Ocean

On Sunday, October 16, Solé on the Ocean, the boutique hotel in Sunny Isles Beach, will host a New Orleans-inspired “Jazz Brunch” to close out the 4th Annual Sunny Isles Beach Jazz Festival. Held at its beachfront lounge Alba from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., guests will enjoy traditional fare from “The Big Easy” while listening to the smooth sounds of The Frank Axtell Quartet jazz ensemble. The extensive brunch menu ($34.95 per person, excludes taxes and gratuity) will boast an array of breakfast and lunch fixings including Belgian Waffles; Biscuits with Gravy; Grits with Shrimp and Egg; Jambalaya; Creole Beef with Onions; paninis, fresh fruit and more. Unlimited Mimosas and Bloody Marys are available for an additional $10 (excluding tax and service fee). For Jazz Brunch and hotel reservations, call 786.923.9300 or email alba@soleoto.com. Valet is also available to diners at a discounted rate of $5.

ONEHOPE Pink Roll at RA Sushi

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, RA Sushi South Miami presents the ONEHOPE Wine and Pink Roll combination. For $15, patrons will enjoy a glass of ONEHOPE California Chardonnay and the Pink Roll:  shrimp, crab mix and combined with lettuce, avocado and cucumber wrapped in pink soy paper and served with a pink ribbon of strawberry sauce. All proceeds from the ONEHOPE Combination will benefit the National Breast Cancer Foundation® (NBCF).  This special will run from Saturday, October 1 through Monday, October 31. 

 Pink Package at Solé on the Ocean 

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Sunny Isles getaway Solé on the Ocean has created a special “Pink Package” benefitting the Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Affiliate. Guests who book the package during the month of October will receive a special rate on the hotel’s popular King Ocean View Room (single occupancy at $219; double occupancy at $229), a welcome pink Martini in Alba Lounge as well as a bottle of rosé Champagne and a pink M&Ms-styled amenity in-room upon arrival. Valet, resort fee, and all taxes are included in the price of the package.  A minimum of a two-night stay required; rates are based per room, per night. For more information, visit www.soleonthebeach.com.

I <3 Juernes at Cafeina

Cafeina Wynwood, is proud to present the launch of its “I <3 Juernes” party series, beginning on Thursday, October 6, at 9 p.m. The weekly happening, named after the Spanish-language fusion of “Jueves” and “Viernes”—Thursday and Friday—is devoted to celebrating the unofficial beginning of the weekend with an international twist. Guests will enjoy a variety of drink specials, DJs and live performances, each designed to fuel the festivities into the early morning hours. The initial installment will feature crossover beats by MTV Latin America’s in-house DJ sensation Mauricio Parra, who will set the tone for a night of dancing and revelry. A slew of specially priced spirits will be available. As an ode to age-old Latin machismo, groups of six or more ladies will receive a complimentary bottle of champagne. Last but not least, surprise guest musicians will take center stage in Cafeina’s outdoor garden to help patrons welcome Friday with a Miami-inspired soundtrack. For table reservations, contact info@cafeinamiami.com or call 305.438.0792.

Kids Eat Free in October at BGR Coral Gables

This October kids eat free every Wednesday at BGR The Burger Joint in Coral Gables and our favorite burger joint in town. The funky, rock n’ roll themed restaurant, known for innovative sandwiches made with top-quality ingredients, is offering a free kids meal with every purchase of a burger, fries and drink after 4 p.m. It’s a delicious dinner deal that will make both children and parents smile. Be sure to try the Wellington, which is prepared with black truffles and foie gras, or the Buffalo Blue (our personal favorite) or whatever the featured burger is. The special, which is for children under 12, consists of a soft drink, two delectable sliders or grilled cheese sandwiches and Yukon Gold fries, which can be topped with rosemary, garlic or parmesan for all those junior gourmands in training.  So aside from all this goodness, what sets BGR in the Gables apart from the zillion other burger joints in town? If you ask the kids, they will tell you it’s the state-of-the-art, $30, 000 Ferrari soda machine containing over 100 soda combinations. 

VIPink at Soho Beach 

Ocean Drive magazine and Bright Pink will host a celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month for the ultimate “pink” cocktail party, VIPink. The event will be held on Thursday, October 6, from 7 to 10 p.m. at Soho Beach House.  The evening will feature a silent auction composed of luxury and lifestyle goods, “Bright-tini” cocktails by GREY GOOSE® Vodka as well as, wine, champagne and a variety of delectable desserts. Ocean Drive magazine is the exclusive media partner for VIPink Miami. All proceeds from the event will benefit Bright Pink’s educational and awareness programs. For additional details or to purchase tickets, visit: vipinkmiami11.eventbrite.com. 

ISA Boutique Breast Cancer Awareness 

ISA boutique in Midtown Miami is preparing to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month on Thursday, October 6, from 6 to 8 p.m., with their recently debuted monthly shopping party alongside host Annie Vazquez. Portions of the proceeds from this event will benefit the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation; the boutique will also be accepting donations the entire month of October.  Enjoy on-site dry styling by Blo – Blow Dry Bar (www.blomedry.com), eco-friendly cocktails courtesy of VeeV (www.veevlife.com), VIP cards and more.

South Florida’s Signature Chefs

One of South Florida’s most popular annual food and wine charity events, the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction, will return for its 14th year on Thursday, October 6, featuring signature chefs from dozens of Miami’s most popular restaurants.  The event, presented by Goya Foods, will be held at The Westin Colonnade Coral Gables.  Celebrity Emcee Jackie Nespral of NBC 6 will host the evening and Dr. Deise Granado-Villar of Miami Children’s Hospital will be honored for her continuous support of the March of Dimes. VIP Tickets for the event are $250 per person, which includes admission to the exclusive VIP Champagne Reception at 6:30 p.m.  General Admission (7:30 p.m.) tickets are $150 per person.   All proceeds from the event benefit the March of Dimes.  For more event information and sponsorship opportunities, call 305.477.1192 or visit marchofdimes.com/florida.

Walk by Faith with Mike Cardoso 

On Friday, October 7, The Stage will host a fundraiser to benefit Walk by Faith with Mike Cardoso from 6 to 10 p.m. Walk by Faith with Mike Cardoso is a charity to raise funds for stem cell advancement therapy.  A $15 donation includes appetizers and discounted drinks, along with live music by Jahfe.  Guests will also get a chance to bid on silent auction items including specialized sports memorabilia.  The event will be emceed by Jason Jackson from Miami Heat TV.  For more information, or to donate to Walk by Faith with Mike Cardoso, visit:  www.supportmikecardoso.com.

George Kotsiopoulos and Swarovski on Lincoln Road

On Tuesday, October 11, from 7 to 9 p.m., Swarovski on Lincoln Road, the leading designer and producer of fashion jewelry, celebrates Fall Fashion by hosting a style event with Fashion Expert George Kotsiopoulos.  The E! Style Expert will offer insider tips and celebrity red carpet style secrets, all while showcasing the latest trends in Fall Accessories. Refreshments will be provided; special gift with purchases over $150 (while supplies last).

Meat Market Wine Dinner

After two sold-out wine dinners this summer, Meat Market, Miami Beach’s contemporary American steakhouse, announces the third and final event in the 2011 series.  Organized by sommelier Sarah Almand and acclaimed chef/co-owner Sean Brasel, the final wine dinner will take place on Wednesday, October 19 at 7 p.m.  For the dinner, hosted by the United States Sommelier Association, Almand will pair Brasel’s modern American cuisine with 90 point plus bottles from California superstar producers. The reception & four-course dinner menu and correlating wines is priced at $95 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations for the wine dinner are limited and can be made by calling 305. 532.0088.  www.meatmarketmiami.com.  

Lights Out Miami! 

On Thursday, October 20, chefs, servers and diners will be challenged to explore new approaches to fine dining in the dark, in a dynamic environment. Lights Out Miami presented by Ability Explosion – a non-profit organization committed to highlighting the capabilities of the differently-abled is breaking down barriers.  Service staff at all participating restaurants receive Orientation and Mobility Training sponsored by Miami Light House for the Blind.  This valuable component plays an important part in expanding the skills and the minds of the front line service providers while creating a fun and enlightening experience. Menus range in price from $55 – $135 depending on the restaurant and what is being offered.  Participating restaurants, tickets and information are available on line at www.AbilityExplosion.org.

Noche Gitana at Tapas & Tintos

On Thursday, September 29, Tapas & Tintos Midtown, the second incarnation of the famed Española Way restaurant, will launch its new party series “Noche Gitana.”  

Owners Nicolas De Justo and Fernando Jimenez have partnered with wine distributor Hidalgo Imports, LLC to offer guests a 20 percent discount on a selection of traditional Spanish wines including Arviza Rioja, PradoRey, Fedriani Lafitte and Manzanilla La Gitana. Only available for purchase by bottle, Tapas & Tintos will offer each wine at a reduced price of $8 per glass, for oenophiles who wish to sample each selection. Executive chef Fernando Andres will create an authentic Spanish food and wine experience, preparing signature tapas to pair with each wine. Throughout the night, guests will enjoy live Flamenco performances and complimentary “Rebujitos,” a typical Spanish cocktail from Andalucía made with Manzanilla La Gitana wine, citrus soda and fresh mint. For more information call 305.392.0506 or visit www.tapasytintos.com.

Who Let the Incredible Dogs Out!

Incredible Dogs are taking over Bicentennial Park! Miami is hosting the talented world champion and “celebrity” canines when DOGS debuts for the first time in the U.S. Seen around the globe, this live touring production introduces audiences to an exciting dog show under the Big Top. DOGS will impress and entertain South Florida beginning September 28. Catch the show Wednesday through Friday at 7:30 p.m.; Weekends, Saturdays at 11:00 a.m., 3:00, and 7:00 p.m. and Sundays at 1:00 and 5:00 p.m.  Tickets range from $30 to $90 and may be purchased at Bicentennial Park, or by visiting www.theincredibledogs.com. A portion of the proceeds from the show will benefit the Humane Society of Greater Miami.

EPIC at LIV Fontainebleau 

On Saturday, October 1, Overtown Music Project presents EPIC, a mash up of big band and hip-hop, at LIV Fontainebleau, from 7:00 to 10p.m. Monie Love will host the event featuring an 18 piece big band helmed by Melton Mustafa. Libations will be provided by Status Vodka. Funds raised will go to a jazz and blues residency in Overtown.

Advance tickets are $40, $50 on the day of the event and can be purchased at

www.overtownmusicproject.org. For more info, contact amy@overtownmusicproject.org.

Happy 75^th Birthday Edward Villella! 

Miami City Ballet dancers, staff, friends and supporters will gather on Saturday evening, October 1 to celebrate and honor America’s most celebrated male ballet dancer, Company Founding Artistic Director Edward Villella, at a special 75^th birthday bash at Miami City Ballet studios in Miami Beach. The evening’s festivities will feature cocktails, dinner, dancing and a pre-screening of the WNET/ PBS National television special, “Great Performances: Miami City Ballet Dances Balanchine & Tharp.”  The festivities begin promptly at 6:00pm on October 1 with a cocktail reception sponsored by Bacardi U.S.A. Guests will then take to the 225-seat intimate studio theater for a special pre-screening of WNET/PBS program “Great Performances: Miami City Ballet Dances Balanchine & Tharp.”  The program includes a trio of signature works by George Balanchine and Twyla Tharp that will showcase the company’s critically acclaimed performances of Balanchine’s Square Dance and Western Symphony and Tharp’s “The Golden Section.”Following the screening, guests will enjoy dinner, dancing and tributes from some of Edward Villella’s closest friends and dance peers.  A special montage of the most memorable and outstanding moments in Villella’s illustrious career will be shown.  Tickets are $350, which go to support the artistic efforts of the company, and are available by calling Rebecca Interian at 305.929.7000, ext. 1408 or email rebecca@miamicityballet.org. 

A Cafeina Dynasty

Channel your inner Blake or Crystal Carringtion for Cafeina owner Ivette Naranjo’s “Dynasty”-themed birthday bash on Saturday, October 1 at 9 p.m. The Wynwood lounge will be transformed into the “Cafeina Manor,” guests are encouraged to dress their best 80s glam, shoulder pads included. A few quintessential fashion accessories will be provided to help set a mood of decadence and excess. Expect copious amounts of caviar, champagne and cocktails by SVEDKA, along with music by VJ Tom LaRoc. To RSVP contact Dynasty@TaraInk.com. 

Chalk Miami Lounge Job Fair

Chalk Miami Lounge, a soon-to-open ping pong and billiards den, will host a job fair on Monday, October 3, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at its 1234 Washington Avenue location in South Beach, formerly occupied by Washington Federal Bank. The fair, which aims to fill 50+ full- and part-time positions – ranging from bartenders, servers, hosts, ping pong fanatics, pool sharks, and more – is another sign of the slowly resurging Miami Dade economy, which ranked second in the state in job growth for August 2011 according to a report by The Miami Herald. The unemployment rate dropped more than it has in almost 20 years: from 13 percent in July to 12.2 percent in August.     

 “Chalk will be an unconventional lounge, an eclectic adult ‘rec room’ of sorts, and we are looking for creative individuals from all walks of life to help foster that experience, says managing partner Robert Chalk. “Ideal candidates will be locals with experience in the hospitality and services industry that know how to have fun.”Chalk is slated to open in October 2011. Prospective applicants who wish to get ahead of the curve are encouraged to email their resume and cover letter to info@chalkmiami.com.

Certified Pink Ribbon Pilates Program 

Pilates in the Grove along with its sister location, Pilates on the Beach, invites guests to celebrate the launch of their Certified Pink Ribbon Pilates Program on Wednesday, October 5. In honor of breast cancer awareness month, the studios have teamed up with the Rosenbaum Breast Center to benefit the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation. From 6 to 9 p.m., guests can enjoy performances by Ari Yoga, on-site dry styling by Blo – Blow Dry Bar, eye-lash demonstrations and makeup applications by Mary Kay, music by DJ Woozles Occult Sounds and raffle prizes along with complimentary cocktails by VeeV and hors d’oeuvres by The Grove Spot and Spartico. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation. Ticket prices: $30 in advance, $40 at the door.  To reserve your ticket, call 305.446.6899 or email rsvp@cm-publicrelations.com. Tickets can also be purchased on Rue Miami:  www.ruelala.com/miami on Sunday, October 2.

Fontainebleau Goes Pink  

For the month of October, Fontainebleau Miami Beach is going pink! In support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the legendary Miami Beach resort has partnered, for its third year, with the Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Chapter of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation to help raise funds for breast cancer research and further increase awareness of the disease. To mark the occasion, Fontainebleau’s signature restaurants will offer special $39 three-course prix fixe dinner menus throughout October.  A portion of sales will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Gotham Steak, Hakkasan and Scarpetta will feature delectable menus, including some signature dishes, for the cause. Each restaurant is offering menu wine pairings for an additional $20 or $30. The resort is also offering discounted valet parking ($12 with validation) to diners. The “Bleau Goes Pink” dinner menus are available Sunday – Thursday throughout the month of October. .  For reservations at Gotham Steak, Scarpetta, or Hakkasan, please call 877.326.7412.  For additional information on Fontainebleau Miami Beach, visit www.fontainebleau.com.

The Current Event  

On Thursday, September 22 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., join Neiman Marcus Coral Gables and Miami magazine, along with host Shireen Sandoval of WSVN’s Deco Drive, for an evening of shopping and upscale revelry. Sit front row for a fashion show featuring the hottest fall trends and an exclusive preview of the new Rachel Zoe Collection. Dress in your best ensemble and enter the “Dress to Impress Rachel Zoe” competition for the chance to win a $1,000 shopping spree. I die! Sip wines by VOGA Italia and enjoy light bites by BGR The Burger Joint, La Cofradia, The Local, Red Koi Thai & Sushi Lounge and Seasons 52. The Current Event benefits the Young Patrons of Miami Science Museum. Spend $350 in Contemporary Sportswear or Dress Collections and receive an exclusive Rachel Zoe Collection handbag. To RSVP, please call 786.999.1003 or email rsvpcoralgables@neimanmarcus.com.

Violetas Boutique Hosts Grand Opening in Coral Gables

 Join Patricia Anton Himmel and Patricia Kronfle to celebrate the grand opening of their new home and décor boutique VIOLETAS. Specializing in unique home expressions, furnishings, accessories and remarkable gift items, VIOLETAS will kick-off its unveiling with a cocktail soiree on Thursday, September 22 at 7:00 p.m. Guests will enjoy an evening of shopping, featuring exclusive lines and curiosities collected from around the world, while indulging on decadent cocktails and scrumptious bites.  A portion of the evening proceeds will benefit IKF Wonderfund – a program of Jackson Memorial Foundation. To attend the event RSVP to Violetas@THEPATTONGROUPINC.com.

Miami City Ballet’s Upper Room 

Miami City Ballet’s Upper Room – a dedicated group of art & culture lovers in their 20s and 30s – kicks off MCB’s 2011-12 season with a party on Friday, September 23 at Performing Arts Exchange, 337 S.W. 8^th Street, beginning at 8:30 p.m. An exciting night of mixing and mingling with MCB dancers and other young professionals awaits: indulging on scrumptious cocktails and decadent light bites and dancing to the sounds of Spam All Stars and their unique blend of improvisational electronic elements and turntables with Latin, funk, hip hop and dub to create what they call an “electronic descarga.” The party is free for current MCB’s Upper Room members and $15 for non-members. Non-members who purchase a membership before or at the party will be waived the $15 cover. RSVP by calling 305.929.7000, ext. 1446 or email upperroom@miamicityballet.org.

Miami International Wine Fair’s 10th Anniversary After Party  

TEMPO Miami celebrates the Miami International Wine Fair’s 10th Anniversary After Party & TobaccoRum Miami preview party, in partnership with Cigar Snob magazine and sponsored by Rums of Puerto Rico on Saturday, September 24 at 9:00 p.m.  The swanky, open-to-the-public, soiree welcomes industry professionals, wine connoisseurs, cigar aficionados and rum lovers alike to a night set to the sounds of live music from Bikini Jazz, with wine and tobacco painting demonstrations by artist GAPAL.  Guests will also have the chance to sip wines from the just-wrapped Florida International Wine Challenge, sample chocolate rum cake from the famed Tortuga Rum Cake company and visit cigar and rum exhibitors to taste, test and learn to pair cigars with rums.The event will act as a preview to the first annual TobaccoRum Miami exposition, slated to take place this coming December during Art Basel. Tickets for the 10th Anniversary After Party & TobaccoRum Miami soiree are priced at $50 per person and can be purchased by visiting www.miamiwinefair.com. 

Solé On the Ocean Says “Aloha” to Summer 

Solé On the Ocean, an ultra-contemporary boutique hotel in Sunny Isles Beach, will say “Aloha” to summer with a Hawaiian-themed luau on Saturday, September 24, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. at its beachfront lounge Alba Mare. In addition to getting lei-ed upon arrival, guests will celebrate the spirit of the islands – or isles – with traditional fare, live music and performances, paddle boarding, a limbo contest and a tropical swimwear presentation. Hula girls and a fire dancer will spark the festivities with colorful performances, while the Aloha Boyz strum their ukuleles and Dutch spins island beats. Party-goers will sip on Mai Tais and feast on Hawaiian-inspired fare, including a fire-roasted pig with traditional trimmings such as shrimp fried rice, mixed vegetables and Polynesian potato salad. ‘Hula’ good times with ensue with an informal fashion showcase by Poko Pano swimwear and a limbo contest, the winner of which will receive a complimentary weekend stay at Solé On the Ocean. Ark Paddleboards will also be onsite to offer both novice and experienced paddle boarders the chance to make waves on the ocean. The cost of entrance is $25 per person and includes unlimited fare, one Mai Tai and valet. Guests are invited to extend their stay from sundown to sunrise with 20% off the standard room rate, which begins at $139.00. A portion of proceeds from sales will benefit Plastics Free Ocean, an organization dedicated to raising awareness about the risks of improper and excessive use of plastics to human health, wildlife and the environment. For luau and hotel reservations, call 786.923.9000 or email alba@soleoto.com. Advance purchase of admission to the luau is strongly recommended.

Papi Underwear Celebrates Hispanic Heritage 

In honor of Hispanic Heritage, Macy’s department store along with Papi Underwear has unveiled their second annual Hispanic Heritage collection.  Papi’s Hispanic Heritage collection is made in Cool Pass fabric, a poly/spandex blend that features qualities such as moisture wicking, quick dry and breathable for the utmost in comfort and protection for men, the group consists of Brazilian trunks and matching tanks and is available in an array of colors and designs that represent the flags of different Latin American countries.  Merchandise is available at www.papiinc.com, select Macy’s stores nationwide, and several other retailers across the country.  Brazilian trunks retail for $24 each and tanks retail for $29 each. 

FENDI, The Wolfsonian, and Fashion’s Night Out 

FENDI in partnership with The Wolfsonian–Florida International University invite you to celebrate Vogue Fashion’s Night Out, Atelier Fendi, and an exhibition of photographs by Karl Lagerfeld. Hosted by Susanne Birbragher and Lila Segal Battista, The Fashion Week 2011 ad campaign, recreates the studio of the Dutch painter, Cornelis Theodorus Maria van Dongen. He developed the lush colors of his Fauvist style gaining a reputation for his sensuous, at times garish, portraits. He was a fashionable portraitist with a touch of playful cynicism. He has been noted as stating that, “Painting is the most beautiful of lies”. Karl Lagerfeld is a German artist, fashion designer, and photographer based in Paris, France. He has collaborated on a variety of art and fashion related projects, most notably as head designer and creative director for the fashion house Chanel. Lagerfeld helms his own label fashion house, as well as the Italian house Fendi. The event will takes place Thursday, September 8, on Fashion’s Night Out from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at FENDI, Bal Harbour Shops, 9700 Collins Avenue. Twenty percent of the proceeds that evening will benefit The Wolfsonian–FIU. Confirm your attendance by calling 305.861.7114. Become a member, or change your membership level by contacting Ian Rand at 305.535.2631or ian@thewolf.fiu.edu.

Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour Invites You to Fashion’s Night Out 

Styleist along with Newborn and Jack and Jill’s Children’s Center Presents Fashion’s Night Out at Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m., with 10% of the proceeds going back to the charity. Fashion’s Night Out is a global initiative created to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence, and boost the industry’s economy. Footwear designer Edmundo Castillo will be the guest of honor, and personally sign his latest collection. A hi-tech photo booth will let you capture and upload your latest look to Facebook. Shoot your own cover of Bal Harbour Magazine with a hair and makeup artists on hand. Check in with AOL’s Styleist, the source for the latest fashion news and trends, to test your Fall Fashion IQ and win prizes. Play Roulette and Blackjack in our Men’s department casino. Enjoy cocktails courtesy of GREY GOOSE Vodka, beverages by Coca Cola and Smartwater, bites by ONE Bal Harbour Resort & Spa and MISTER COLLINS, as DJ’s spin throughout the store. 

Vanishing Points at the Bass Museum of Art 

On Friday, September 9, the Bass Museum of Art will host an Opening Reception for its newest exhibition Vanishing Points: Paint and Paintings from the Debra and Dennis Scholl Collection. A members-only private viewing is scheduled from 7 to 8 p.m. A cocktail reception open to the public will take place from 8 to 10 p.m. While enjoying hors d’oeuvres courtesy of EDEN South Beach, Boru Vodka and Tierras Tequila cocktails, wine by Betts & Scholl and beats by DJ Le Commandant, attendees will explore the institution’s new exhibit. Organized by Miami-based artist and writer Gean Moreno, Vanishing Points presents 43 works by 27 contemporary international artists and explores how they interpret and how we perceive painting today. The exhibition highlights three viewpoints: Sweeping Horizontality and Aerial Views, The Painterly without Paintings and Impossible Task. Admission to the Opening Reception is complimentary for members and Bass Pass holders; $10 for non-members. For more information, visit www.bassmuseum.org, call 786.800.6302. 

Leonardo Hidalgo Honors 9/11 at Cafeina  

Leonardo Hidalgo, internationally known pop artist based in Miami, will be telling the story of 9/11 from a unique and artistic uplifting perspective through his eye popping vibrant color large scale paintings.  The private opening reception will take place this Friday, September 9, in honor of The City Of Miami Firefighters who will be in attendance at CAFEINA | Wynwood Exhibition Center  from 7:00 to 11:00p.m.          

Hidalgo has created a visual feast of 12 large-scale paintings exploring the meaning of good and evil, freedom, liberty, the force of divine justice and superheroes.  In these painting he wants to honor the memory of the lives lost in the attacks of 9/11, the firefighters, police rescue units and the soldiers who have sacrificed their lives to defend our liberty.  Hidalgo says, “I think it will be a very special moment to be together that night with the firefighters, our true heroes, and honor them while REMEMBERING a moment in history that changed the world forever. I hope that with my art I can make people feel and believe in liberty, justice, and spread some heroic virtues in the consciousness of society.” Guests will enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails by Mandarine Napoleon until 8:00p.m. Email rsvpmiamiart@gmail.com to attend the private reception; the exhibition will be on view from August 29 through September 15. Call 786.217.0130 for a private tour.

Miami Children’s Hospital Fundraiser at the Well Miami Beach Attorney and Miami Children’s Young Ambassador (MCYA) Leadership Committee Member Michael Grieco and WSVN’s Louis Aguirre are hosting a fundraiser to support Miami Children’s Hospital (MCH) on Friday, September 9 at 7 p.m. at The Well on Miami Beach. MCYA is a membership organization for young professionals between the ages of 22 and 45 who have a strong commitment to improving the lives of children in our community and beyond. Members have the opportunity to network with prestigious business and community leaders, meet with key Miami Children’s personnel and determine how their donations can best be used to benefit the patients and families at MCH. With goal of helping children with medical needs and raising awareness for MCH, the fundraiser is open to the public and guests are encouraged to make a monetary donation at the door.  To attend, contact Stephanie Cofino at Scofino@mchf.org or call 786.268.1719.  

Casting Call for Worst Cooks in America with Bobby Flay 

Despite what Ari Gold thinks, Bobby Flay, (who has a recurring role on this season of Entourage) is one of our most celebrated chef’s and now he’s joined the Food Network in search of the “Worst Cooks in America”. This Miami Casting at Epic on September 16 and will be televised on the network. If you’re interested sign up today as space is limited. Sixteen of the country’s most hopeless cooks attempt to transform from kitchen zeros into kitchen heroes as they compete in a grueling culinary boot camp and led by Food Network stars Bobby Flay and Anne Burrell.

Email us at worstcooks@theconlincompany.com, tell us why you are the most disastrous cook in the country. Include name, age, hometown, occupation, contact phone number and a recent photo.
Additional info & application available at www.theconlincompany.com