One Stop Safety Shop at Give Wink

Join Aventura’s Give Wink on Thursday, August 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., for a one-stop Safety Shop to help South Florida parents learn how to better protect their children. Collaborators include Guard-A-Kid, One Beat CPR, and My Privates are Private author, Stacey Honowitz who will be offering services, tips, and advice all day long. Guard-A-Kid, members of the nation’s most highly-recognized Child Identification and Child Safety Program, will be on site with special packages that include two ID cards with finger prints of their little ones. This information is automatically dispersed nationwide if a kidnapping occurs; packages start at $22. One Beat CPR, certified CPR trainers, will be giving quick consultations on how to use CPR for emergency situations. Groups of 8 or more who register at Give Wink will receive 15% off CPR training classes, and Stacey Honowitz, author of My Privates are Private will be signing books at Give Wink and explaining the importance of open communication between kids and their parents. For more information visit, www.GiveWink.com.

Miami Recognition Dinner “Sparkle” Preview Party

Join the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force for the official Miami Recognition Dinner “Sparkle” Preview Party on Thursday, August 25, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at South Beach hotspot Vice Lounge Miami. Sip and socialize as event details are unveiled and meet committee members, table hosts and Task Force supporters. Last year’s Miami Recognition Dinner was the most successful ever, raising more than $410,000. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase tickets and tables to this year’s dinner taking place on Saturday, October 15, at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach.  Guests will be treated to a complimentary open bar courtesy of 42 BELOW Vodka and light bites by Vice Lounge from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Cocktails, beer and wine will be available at half-price from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. There is no cost to attend – to RSVP please rsvp@theTaskForce.org.

The Power of Music at the Stage

 On Friday, August 26 from 6 to 10 pm, you are invited to sip, mingle and boogie at the Stage (170 NE 38 Street), while supporting music programs for the foster youth of The Motivational Edge.  The evening will include live performances by Sekajipo genes, the Jungle, and Jordan Robinson and will feature beer and drink specials.  

WMC co-founder, DJ Bill Kelly will spin a set and the Motivational Edge’s youth will display their skills.  Spam All Stars will also be performing at around 7 p.m. There will be raffles and a silent auction, so bring plenty of business cards and your credit card.  There is a $15 suggested minimum donation at the door. RSVP to Info@TheMotivationalEdge.com or 305.350.3950

Ibiza Animal House Birthday Celebration at WALL

WALL Miami lounge co-owner Nicola Siervo, along with Karim Masri, Navin Chatani and Jarred Grant, will host an Ibiza Animal House-themed birthday celebration at the Miami Beach hotspot on Saturday, August 27 at 11:00 p.m. International mix masters Iban Mendoza (Spain) and Neverdogs (Italy) will be on tap for the evening to make their U.S. debut with the signature Balearic beats of the south of Spain. Guests are also encouraged to dress the part and channel their animal instincts, further adding to the Ibiza flare, and will receive complimentary animal masks upon entry. RSVPs and table reservations are encouraged by contacting rsvp@wallmiami.com or via the WALL iPhone application, available at www.itunes.com.

Big Birthdays at Bongos

Fabulous Drag Queens Elaine Lancaster and Kitty Meow will celebrate their birthdays with a party on August 27 at Bongos Hard Rock Hollywood.  This year’s theme is Reverse It- and the “hostesses” promise to bring you all of the great music of the 1990s.  The celebration starts with dinner at 9 p.m. followed by DJ sets by Bill Hallquist and shows throughout the evening.  For more information, call 305.791.3040.  Reservations are highly recommended.

Ultimate Girls’ Night Out and Launch of InterviewHer.com

In the first installment of what will become a monthly series of events, InterviewHer.com invites Miami’s most in-the-know women to attend an exclusive event to celebrate beauty, fashion and success. Tagged as “The Ultimate Girls’ Night Out,” will be hosted at Cafeina Wynwood Lounge on Thursday, September 1, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. Jenny Ortiz, a former recruiter, has created an editorial-based website that features insightful and in-depth interviews with powerful female entrepreneurs. Following almost two years of building a loyal following and network, InterviewHer.com has taken connecting women to the next level with the recent launch of the InterviewHer.com interactive website. Guests will enjoy specialty beauty services, discounted shopping, and   exclusive bites and cocktails furnished by Cafeina from 7:00   to 8:00 p.m., along with cake pops to satiate sweet cravings.VIP ticket holders will receive goodie bags stuffed with full-size, custom-created beauty products, specialty discounts, lifestyle products and more. Tickets are available for purchase at http://wwwinterviewher.eventbrite.com/. General admission tickets are $12 in advance and $20 at the door (cash only); VIP tickets are available for $20 in advance and $30 at the door (cash only). Tickets are required for admission. 
A portion of the event proceeds will benefit FINCA, an international micro-finance organization that provides financial services to the world’s lowest-income entrepreneurs.

Join the Marli Foundation at Smith & Wollensky 

The Marli Foundation, a South Florida-based organization focused on national ovarian cancer awareness, will host Marli’s Birthday Gala- a fundraising event at Smith & Wollensky (1 Washington Avenue) on August 20 starting at 6 pm.  The elegant evening will feature cocktails, delectable food, and live and silent auctions including luxury items such as sport memorabilia, jewelry, and vacations. 

Portrait and still-life painter Christopher Still will be the honorary guest speaker. Still is best known for his large-scale works such as the collection of murals commissioned by the Florida House of Representatives for the House Chambers, in the State’s Capitol.

The event is open to the public and includes cocktails and dinner at a cost of $300 per couple; $1000/Table of six (includes ¼ page ad in event program) or $1200/Table of six (includes full page ad in event program).  Semi-formal attire is requested. For more information contact: Claudia Rey at 305.905.1997 or email: messagefrommarli@gmail.com. 

Kimberly Shenker-Bacardi hosts a Celebration for Food for the Poor

 
On August 20, a birthday celebration will be held in honor of Miami philanthropist Kimberly Shenker-Bacardi at Bang & Olufsen’s Lincoln Road Showroom. The festivities will recognize the dedication and commitment of Kim’s Good Karma Group helping those in need, celebrating life, positive energy, good karma, and the betterment of our community. Guests will enjoy lively music, dancing, hors d’ oeuvres, cocktails, auction items, live entertainment, and the company of dedicated community members and leaders.  Tickets are $50, with 100% of funds going to Food for the Poor, an organization that Kim has worked with many times and one of the world’s highest rated charities.  To RSVP and purchase tickets, visit www.foodforthepoor.org/kimsbirthday. 

Back to School Special at OYE Cuban Grill

OYE Cuban Grill, Miami’s first and only fast-casual Cuban eatery is kicking off the school year by offering 25% off any menu item to students with a valid school ID. Starting August 22nd Monday through Friday from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., OYE is satisfying kids after school hunger with mouth-watering Cuban dishes that are made-to-order and prepared fresh daily. OYE has an extensive selection of afternoon snacks to munch on including Croqueta Preparada, The OYE Wrap with juicy churrasco and sweet plantains or a baked empanada with picadillo or chicken. Offering express check-out for kids on the go or tableside service with free Wi-Fi, students can sit back, eat a snack and get their homework done.

Solé On The Ocean Introduces “Industry Night” 

Solé On The Ocean is proud to announce the launch of its “Industry Night” party series, held every Tuesday from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. at its chic second floor lounge Alba. Beginning August 23, employees of all hospitality and services arenas including hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and beyond will enjoy fifty percent off all food, beer, wine and well liquors, in addition to a reduced priced menu of signature cocktails. Industry personnel are asked to present a business card or valid work identification to redeem the discount. Complimentary valet parking is available with social media check-in (Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare). To RSVP, call 305.935.4777, or email alba@soleontheocean.com. 

City Hall Dining In the Dark 

City Hall the new bustling eatery on Biscayne Boulevard has joined Lights Out Miami to host a night of dining in the dark benefitting Ability Explosion, an organization dedicated to raising awareness and bettering the lives of individuals with disabilities. The actual date for the charity event is October 20 with over 100 local participants; luckily curious diners will have a chance to preview the City Hall experience on Wednesday, August 24. Guests will enjoy cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres upon arrival and once seated at their dinner table, they will be blindfolded while served a three course, wine-paired mystery dinner. Those who have the savviest taste buds will be awarded a special prize. To make things even more exciting for guests, City Hall’s wait staff will be outfitted with night-vision goggles to help guide diners through the event. The dinner begins at 7:00 p.m. and is specially priced at $85 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity. Reservations are required, to purchase tickets, call Irene at 305.389.0009 or irene@abilityexplosion.org. 

ICE-WATCH® Hosts Exclusive Trunk Show at Bloomingdale’s 

Ice-Watch® is hosting a three-day trunk show featuring the international brand’s newest collections of fun and fashionable timepieces for the season at Bloomingdale’s Aventura Mall on August 25, 26, and 27 beginning at 10:00 a.m.  Renowned Illustrator and graffiti artist Jessy Nite will be on hand to tag, sign and customize each Ice-Watch purchase from 3 p.m. to 6p.m. on Thursday, August 25 and Saturday, August 27.  Ice-Watch fans include celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Ashley Greene, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Audrina Patridge, Felicity Huffman, Taye Diggs, Terrel Owens, Jennie Garth, Cindy Crawford and Cheryl Hines.  For more information, visit www.ice-watch.us or call 305.792.1134.

 Caged Women at Cafeina 

Join photographer Jordan Michael Zuniga for the debut of his latest works, Women in Cages, at Wynwood’s Cafeina with a VIP cocktail reception to benefit People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) on Thursday, August 11, from 7 to 10 p.m. The exhibition explores the politics surrounding the treatment of animals, and his subjects are some of Miami’s most well-known faces, including: Brooke Hogan, Ines Rivero, Katrina Campins, Michelle Pooch and Tara Solomon, who have undressed for the exhibit as part of PETA’s “I’d Rather Go Naked than Wear Fur” campaign. Eighty percent of the proceeds from all sales of these photographic works will be donated to PETA. This powerful, sensual exhibition will be on display through September 10.  The opening cocktail and exhibit are free and open to the public.  For more information and to RSVP contact Brian Long at mrlong@bl-pr.com or call 917.294.7370.  You may also RSVP by contacting Omar DeWindt at TARA, Ink. at omar@taraink.com or 305.864.3434 ext. 157.

Bark at the Ball Park 

Take your pooch to watch the Florida Marlins game for a change of venue that also benefits a worthy cause. The Marlins battle the San Francisco Giants on Friday, August 12, at 7:10 pm, at Sun Life Stadium and help raise money for the Humane Society of Greater Miami. Tickets are only $12 for adults, $6 for kids and $6 for dogs. Doggie pools, water dishes and a dog-walking area will be available throughout the game.  Proceeds from all dog tickets will benefit the Humane Society of Greater Miami.  To purchase tickets contact Cynthia Coutard at 305.749.1842 or Cynthia@humanesocietymiami.org.  Group tickets are also available by calling 305.626.SAVE. Dog owners must carry proof of the rabies vaccination with them to the game. Download and sign the Waiver document from the website- www.humanesocietymiami.org and bring the form with you to the game.

Wine Depot Hosts Champagne Ruinart 

On Tuesday, August 16, Wine Depot will host a wine/champagne tasting focusing on Champagne Ruinart from the region of Reims. From 6 to 8 p.m., guest can enjoy complimentary wines from this area. Wine Depot will be focusing on different regions every Tuesday, until the end of August. Reservations are required and can be made by visiting marketing@winedepotmiami.com. 

Sloane Square Barbers & Shoppe Opens in Coral Gables 

On August 18, Sloane Square Barbers & Shoppe opens its doors in downtown Coral Gables. A membership-focused club, with non-member a la carte service, Sloane Square captures the timeless, authentic barbershop experience by combining a rich mix of modern amenities and classic style.  Opening the flagship store in Miami Beach only eleven months ago to much acclaim, the South Beach locale was named one of “America’s Five Best Barbershops” by Travel & Leisure Magazine in 2010. The opening will go from 10:00 a.m. to closing.  For more information, visit www.sloanesq.com. 

Mayfair Launches Saturday and Sunday Pool Party 

Stepping away from South Beach pool parties, Mayfair Hotel hosts “Splash at the Mayfair” every Saturday this summer. Bringing the sun-filled-day to life, Ren Albieri aka “DirtyClean” and Darrell Robinson aka “DJ FOXX,” who have a profound understanding of club dance music, will provide sounds to kick off the weekend. The pool party will be filled with drink specials and good vibes, while giving free Special Cocktails for ladies from 4 to 6 p.m. and UM students a 10% discount with ID.

For a more exclusive and relaxed event, Mayfair Hotel and Spa will also be hosting a full-service, invite-only Sunday pool party at the rooftop pool and cabana lounge . The ultimate luxury Bohemian hotel is calling back the stylish Sunday setting honoring its original status as the most coveted social destination in Miami, along with its celebrated four-diamond service. The Mayfair rooftop will be open through September 24; guests can experience an array of specialties including private cabanas, magazines, frozen grapes, aroma-soaked wet towels, Evian mister, lotion, and much more.  The invite-only list is open to loyalists and local influencers who fill out commentary cards at Chef Jonathan Eismann’s Spartico Restaurant.  For more information, visit www.mayfairhotelandspa.com or call 786.514.9886. 

Miami Spice at db Bistro Moderne 

For the months of August and September, db Bistro Moderne joins Miami Spice, with a scrumptious three-course meal for lunch or dinner. Located inside the JW Marriott Marquis Miami, Daniel Boulud’s eatery offers a seasonal menu by Executive Chef, Jarrod Verbiak, featuring dishes such as Ceviche du Jour, Roasted Snapper, Spinach Farfalle and Tarte Fine. For a complete Miami Spice menu, visit www.MiamSpicedbbistromoderne.com. 

db Bistro Moderne also introduces summer happy hour offering half-off specialty cocktails such as the Grapefruit Blossom and the Ultimate Filthy Martini; half-off beer, wine, sake and premium offers; light bites for $7 including Beignets de Brandade, Pommes Souffle and half-priced raw bar items such as oysters clams and ceviche; and half-off sweet treats such as Blueberry Shortcake, Madeleines and much more. On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, renowned DJ Pierre Zonzon will spin from 5 to 8.pm., and db Bistro Moderne will bring in different liquor sponsors like Kettle One, Johnnie Walker, Don Julio, every Thursday during happy hour. Reservations are recommended, visit www.DanielNYC.com. 

BankAtlantic Center Opens The Vault 

On August 22, BankAtlantic Center introduces a brand new “special offers” program named THE VAULT. BankAtlantic Entertainment Arena and National Hockey Team brand is the first of its kind to customize a program for its fans, local businesses and charitable causes through a daily deal platform. Every day, The VAULT will open with a new deal from one of its many collaborators, including: Equinox, Revolution Live, Game-Time, and America’s Backyard. In addition to the daily deal program, The VAULT will donate a portion of its sales to the community’s most worthwhile charities through the formation of the DCI Cares Foundation. Members will have the opportunity to participate in a unique experience every month, and will automatically be entered into the special giveaways monthly.  This month’s special experience includes a limo ride and dinner with Miami Heat center, Alonzo Mourning and his wife, Tracy at the newly- opened Mister Collins restaurant at ONE Bal Harbour Resort and Spa. The event will benefit the Lauren’s Kids Foundation in an effort to help stop and prevent childhood abuse.  New customers can sign up for THE VAULT, at www.vaultoffers.com or by visiting THE VAULT kiosks at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise. For more information, contact Michael Leitman at 954. 554.0291 for business inquiries about joining THE VAULT.

Happy Birthday Nick D’Annuzio and Brian Antoni!

On Saturday, August 6 at 8 p.m., Cafeina Wynwood Lounge, the Miami Art District hotspot, in conjunction with The Overthrow, will celebrate the birthdays of TARA, Ink. co-principal Nick D’Annunzio and Brian Antoni, author of South Beach: The Novel. Cafeina will be transformed into a “Chicken Ranch” of sorts, an homage to the ‘80s cult classic The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Guests are encouraged to channel their inner country while enjoying complimentary Svedka vodka cocktails and music by DJ Troy Kurtz and Pirate Stereo. Surprise guests Elaine Lancaster as Dolly Parton, Maryel Epps as “the Madame”, and the Angel Squads Massage Angels as ladies of the night, will be on hand to rev up heart rates. In addition, there will be a haystack photo booth vignette by Pics Boutique, bull rides and a digital art exhibition by Martin Kaupp, who will also present a pop cowboy portrait featuring birthday boy D’Annunzio. In lieu of gifts, the guests of honor have requested that partygoers consider making a donation to their charity of choice, Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida, 297 NW 23^rd St., Miami, FL 33127. RSVP is required to birthday@taraink.com.

Mixology at the National Hotel Miami Beach

National Hotel Miami Beach announces the launch of its new mixology series showcasing creative cocktails by acclaimed mixologist Julio Cabrera. Held in the Martini Room at Blues Bar every Monday, the event will lift spirits with Cabrera’s signature hand-crafted libations, live entertainment and tempting tapas – all to the tune of special theme, which will change on a weekly basis. From 7:00 until 11:00 p.m., Cabrera will entertain guests with his extensive repertoire of colorful cocktails, each for $12, including Flamingo Mojitos, Pasion Cariocas, Jamaica Juleps, Mango-Cilantro Margaritas and – in a tribute to salsa songstress Celia Cruz – Asucas, to name a few. Imbibers may also nibble on the week’s specialty menu, featuring items such as Lime Ceviche, Avocado Steak Tar-Tar, Plaintain Chips with Latin Dip, and more, starting at $6 each from 8:00 until 10:00 p.m., live music in sync with the chosen weekly theme, as inspired by Miami’s vibrant history, will furthermore make for a less-manic and a more-merry Monday. Valet will be offered at a discounted rate of $10. For general inquiries, call 305.532.2311 or visit www.NationalHotel.com.

Sake, Maki, & Roll Sushi School at China Grill Hilton

China Grill Hilton Ft. Lauderdale Marina is launching Sake, Maki & Roll Sushi School on Saturday, August 13, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. On the second Saturday of every month, guests are invited to a tasting and teaching program at the popular dining destination that includes sake sampling, instructions on the art of sushi making and a delicious meal of maki, sushi and tempura that the students will assist in preparing. The class begins with a crash course on sake including how it’s made and the history of the Japanese libation, followed by a tasting of five Ty-Ku Sakes and Liqueurs paired with signature selections from the restaurant including Tuna Tartare on Wonton Crisps, Salmon Crudo and Dancing Unagi. While enjoying the pairings, pupils will learn the basics for at-home sushi preparation – from tools and traditions to different types of sushi and, of course, a lesson in one of the most important components, the sushi rice. The class then continues with hands-on sushi rolling instruction from Executive Sushi Chef Songphon Rawangphan. The session concludes with a demo of Ty-Ku sake fusion cocktails that are all 100 calories or less and a bite of dessert. All students will also receive a take home gift for their hard work. To reserve your seat call 954.759.9950, limited space is available; tickets are $59 plus tax.

Hurricane Specials at Solé on the Ocean

Solé on the Ocean is finally giving South Floridians and Miami-bound travelers a reason to celebrate Hurricane Season with the debut of its Hurricane Season Specials. The announcement comes at the perfect time, with the naming of the Atlantic Ocean’s latest disturbance, “Emily.” Upon the naming of a storm (as previously determined by the National Hurricane Center), guests may take advantage of  the special perks or discounts corresponding with the particular name of the storm by just mentioning it, and will receive 30% off any room rate, complimentary valet, suite upgrades and much more. Even better, should there be more than one named storm out and about at the time of booking, guests are able to apply all applicable perks and discounts. 5% off all room reservations will also be donated to a hurricane relief fund. Stays must be booked during Hurricane Season, which ends November 30. To book, guests must call the hotel directly at 786.923.9300.

Shop For A Cause!

Celebrate the opening of the NEW Ann Taylor at Dadeland Mall with Miami’s top socialites Erin Newberg, Jennifer Diliz, Amy Rosenberg, Erin Cohen, Brooke Brown, and Allison Weiss Brady on Thursday, July 28 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.  Enjoy cocktails, NY₂0 Premium Water, hors d’oeuvres by Lasso the Moon, and music with a percentage of sales to benefit Gene Spotlight.  Contact ANNTAYLOR@GENESPOTLIGHT.ORG for more information.

Cevichery Restobar

 On Thursday, July 28, Cevichery Restobar will introduce South Beach to Peru’s world-class cuisine with a traditional Peña Criolla-themed event celebrating their grand opening as well as Peruvian Independence Day. Peruvian owners Manuel Forero and Alonso Galvez invite guests to experience a sophisticated Peña Criolla, a folkloric party and music show typically held in Lima’s bohemian districts of Miraflores and Barranco. Live music will be provided by Proyección Criolla, a local band known for hosting lively peñas, complete with the cheerful rhythm of Afro-Peruvian tunes and energetic dancers. All partygoers will be treated to the Restobar’s refreshing Pisco Sours and authentic cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Diego Pilares from 8:00 p.m to 10:00 p.m. For reservations and more information, call 305.532.6620 or visit www.facebook.com/cevichery.

 
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80

On July 29, at 8:00 p.m., Hennessy presents Seun Kuti and Egypt 80 for a performance at the Manuel Airtime Theater.  Fela Kuti, creator of the musical movement Afrobeat, is honored by his son Seun Kuti. The Nigerian singer is now leading his father’s legendary band, Egypt 80, and has added some American influence to his music but has kept his songs sharply pointed and political. Kuti describes Afrobeat, the music that his father created and named, as the sound that raised him. Kuti says, “It’s the truth. One word. Afrobeat is the truth.” Tickets are $35 advance or $40 at the door.  For more information, call 305.672.5202 or RhythmFoundation.com.

The 3^rd Annual Doggy Days of Summer at Merrick Park

Village of Merrick Park will host the 3rd Annual Doggy Days of Summer event on Sunday, July 31, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. A dog parade in The Garden will start the activities; proud dog owners will be able to show off their beloved furry friends and three winners will be selected to receive various prizes based on the categories of Best Attire, Best Personality and Best Owner/Dog Look Alike. Every dog that signs up to participate in the parade will also receive a doggy bandana to wear. Dog owners must donate $5 to the Humane Society of Greater Miami to enter the parade. The event will also feature an Adopt-a-Thon, where guests will be able to meet, greet and adopt dogs brought in by the Humane Society of Greater Miami. Guests who donate new items from the Humane Society of Greater Miami’s Wish List will receive a complimentary Village of Merrick Park parking voucher. Items from the wish list include doggy bowls, beds, leashes, durable toys, grooming supplies and more. Additionally, dog owners are invited to have their pooches strike a pose for a take-home framed photo with any purchase of $25 or more within the center. Guests will enjoy special treats and in-store promotions from participating restaurants and shops. Patrons are encouraged to bring along their dogs and dine al fresco at one of Village of Merrick Park’s many dog-friendly restaurants. For more information, call 305.529.0200.

Cleber Lopes Celebrates Life and Beauty 

Cleber Lopes Beauty & Life Institute is celebrating beauty and life with the 2^nd Annual Day of Caring on Thursday, August 4, from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m.  Designed to educate, empower and give hope to all of those affected by breast cancer, Cleber is inviting guests to enjoy complimentary bites by Pasha’s and cocktails along with Motives Cosmetics by Loren Ridinger, raffle prizes and a free L’Oreal treatment with blow-dry when booking an appointment prior to the event. To RSVP go to events@cm-publicrelations.com. 

Hotel Breakwater

Hotel Breakwater, the upscale oceanfront boutique resort on Miami Beach’s legendary Ocean Drive, has officially reopened its doors. On the heels of a multi-million dollar renovation, the property will again seek to capture the essence of the city’s glamorous lifestyle with its 100 sleek rooms and suites, chic lounges and “unfiltered” concierge services. Hotel Breakwater is a glamorous and stimulating lifestyle destination that prides itself on its ability to create “unfiltered” individual experiences. Whether it’s satisfying a craving in the middle of the night or planning an impromptu night out, the unique, on-demand concierge service will turn guests’ dreams into a reality. Special packages, including the “Bromance,” “Fun in the Sun,” “Girls in the City,” “Sinful Indulgence,” “Status Quo,” “Relax and Detox” and “Florida Resident Special,” are also available to satisfy individual needs. For more information, visit www.breakwatersouthbeach.com.

Summer Groove is Here 

Celebrating its 15^th year, Zo’s Summer Groove returns with a star-studded line-up including: Alicia Keys, Cee Lo Green, D.L. Hughley, Carlos Mencia, Black Violin, Jeffrey Donovan, and many more.  Alonzo Mourning Charities presents an event-filled weekend that will take place at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino (1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, Fl.) from July 22 through 24.  The Groove features something for everyone: golf, comedy, music, a benefit dinner, a gala, and an all-star block party.  For more information, visit  www.zsg.com. 

National Hotel Hosts 2011 Copa America Finals 

In celebration of the 2011 Copa America Finals this coming Sunday, July 24, National Hotel Miami Beach will host a viewing event for the championship game of the tournament, often referred to as “the most important football event in Latin America.” Beginning at 2:30 p.m., football fanatics are invited to watch the big game live from Argentina on widescreen televisions at the hotel’s Blues Bar while enjoying 50% off full bar, $4 draft beers and specialty menu items inspired by the countries of the competing teams. Attendees will also have the opportunity to enter into a raffle to win a two-night stay in one of the Art Deco property’s newly renovated cabana rooms, including breakfast for two and valet parking.

Henri Bendel Opens at Dadeland Mall 

Henri Bendel, one of Manhattan’s chicest shopping environments, is making its way to South Florida.  The iconic institution is slated to open its doors this month at Dadeland Mall on July 29.  Along with Saks Fifth Avenue and Macys, Henri Bendel is sure to be a style-setter’s destination.  Bendel’s Dadeland Mall location will host a grand opening celebration on Friday, with a champagne cocktail reception from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. with a digital photo booth for fun!  On Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to closing, customers will receive a special edition Henri Bendel Tote with the purchase of $150. On Sunday, a NYC Brunch will be served from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Miami Spice 10^th Anniversary Kick-Off 

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau’s popular end of summer foodie program, Miami Spice, celebrates its 10^th anniversary August 1 through September 30.  The program, inaugurated in 2002, offers more than 125 participating restaurants, providing great value and making dining out affordable and accessible with three-course lunch ($22) and dinner ($35) menus, excluding gratuities, representing an average discount of 30-50 percent.  To get the Miami Spice anniversary off to a rousing start, an upscale kickoff event, with live entertainment, tastings, demos, specialty cocktails and book signings by some of the area’s top chefs, will take place on Thursday, July 28, from 7 to 9 p. m., at the Miami Beach Convention Center.  Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $100 per person on the day of the event; VIP tickets are $125 and include a special reception beginning at 6 p.m., complimentary sponsor specialty drinks and complimentary self-parking adjacent to the event hall.  Proceeds will benefit Share Our Strength, Madison’s Wish and Education Fund’s Plant a Thousand Gardens Collaborative Nutrition Initiative.  To purchase tickets, guests may call

888-302-5441,or visit www.iLoveMiamiSpice.com for more details.