An Evening of Sweetness and Laughter

On Sunday, January 9, enjoy “An Evening of Sweetness and Laughter,” a benefit, awards ceremony and comedy show to benefit Mathew Forbes Romer Foundation (MFRF). The event will   feature “Laffing Matterz”, a satirical dinner show which includes a sumptuous sit-down dinner and gourmet dessert selections, and will honor leaders in the medical and scientific communities.  The Mathew Forbes Romer Foundation (MFRF) which supports education and research of children’s genetic brain diseases.  Festivities begin at 4:15 p.m. at the Broward Center for Performing Arts.  Tickets cost $150.  To purchase tickets or for more information visit www.mfrfoundation.org or contact MFRF 561-477-0337 or mfrf@aol.com.

Yoga Does a Body Good

Throughout the month of January, Ayama Yoga in Aventura is celebrating National Yoga Day, (January 23),   by offering free “classes to the masses” all month long.  New students can drop in for a complimentary class any morning, evening or weekend.  In addition, Ayama will offer new students 30% percent off all packages (including 10, 20 and unlimited weekly or monthly classes).  For a schedule of classes, visit http://www.ayamayoga.com/schedule.htm.  In addition, students who attend class on Sunday, January 23, will receive a gift card for a complimentary Aveda pedicure from the Seven Seas Spa in Sunny Isles Beach.  Ayama Yoga Center is located at 2624 N.E. 188th St., North Miami Beach, 305.932.7755. 

Wet Society Sundays at the National Hotel Miami Beach

The National Hotel Miami Beach, along with U4RIA Entertainment and J. Kelly, will officially launch its new weekly South Beach International Pool Party, Wet Society Sundays, this coming Sunday, January 9.  Held at the hotel’s oasis-inspired infinity pool and lounge from noon until sundown every Sunday, the weekly party will offer locals and tourists alike the chance to wet their feet at what’s sure to be among Miami Beach’s most chic aquatic and music scene.  Resident DJ, Bryan Peroni will be joined by special guest artist for the musical programming.

 Next@19th’s Dynamic Jew-View Mini-series

On Sunday, January 9, kicking off Next@19th’s dynamic “JewView” mini-series is First Basket, a documentary that follows Jewish basketball experiences from the stoops of brownstones to the bright lights of Madison Square Garden. The screening will take place at 1 p.m. followed by a pick-up game of Schtickball in Next@19^th parking lot. 

On Wednesday, January 12 at 7 p.m., in honor of a visit from Anat Hoffman of the religious female group, Women of the Wall, Next@19th presents Praying in Her Own Voice, a powerful film that documents the courageous struggle of the religious female group.  Inspiring a movement for equality next to the Wailing Wall – one of the holiest places for Jews is Israel – their story speaks of the deprived status of women in Israeli public life.  Hoffman will be speaking at a presentation of the National Council of Jewish Women at Temple Israel on Tuesday, January 18 at 7:00 p.m.  Next@19th is located at 137 NE 19 Street, on the campus of Temple Israel’s historic site in downtown Miami.  For more information call 305.542.7732 or visit the website at www.nextat19th.org.

 By: Maryanne Salvat and Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

 Pucci’s Pizza: Back By Popular Demand

After an eight year hiatus, Pucci’s Pizza, known to many club goers from back-in-the-day as “Hangover Helper” is back- to feed those late-night/early morning cravings and give you the best Brooklyn style pizza all day long. Tommy Pooch and long time business partner Alan Roth along with, Miami Favorite, DJ Irie have re-opened Pucci’s Pizza in the heart of Washington Avenue and 15^th Street in Miami Beach.   Serving patrons into the wee, post-club hours of the night, diners can expect traditional pasta dishes, hero sandwiches, salads, and good old fashioned slices. Just remember,   “A slice and a Coke, you’ll never go broke!”  Pucci’s Pizza is located at 1535 Washington Avenue.

Titanic Brewery Presents Hoosha

Join local favorite Hoosha as they take Coral Gables by storm hitting the stage on Friday, December 17, at 10 p.m. at Titanic Restaurant & Brewery.  The band is thrilled to welcome a new addition to their family, Alessandro Martino, on guitar, followed by Dizzy Bird at midnight.  Come out and support some great local music along with a free shot with every drink purchase.  Titanic Brewery is located at 5813 Ponce De Leon Boulevard in Coral Gables.

Justin Bua’s Legends of Hip Hop Tour

 On Saturday, December 18, 944 Magazine along with Original MOONSHINE hosts an evening of groundbreaking art, throwback music, and cocktails.  Justin Bua, internationally known for his best-selling collection of fine art posters,  will be unveiling one of his most important pieces to date, a 12-foot original oil painting of the Notorious B.I.G.    Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with a viewing at 7:30 p.m.  The Pick Nation Building is located at 7521 Biscayne Boulevard.  To RSVP to this event, visit info@taient.com.

Zoo Lights and Dinner with Santa

Zoo lights kicks off this weekend at Zoo Miami, formerly Miami Metro Zoo (12400 SW 152 Street) and runs from December 17-30.  Guests can enjoy beautiful animal-shaped lights as they stroll zoo walkways during the 12 nights of Zoo Lights (excluding December 24 and 25) from 7 – 10 p.m. (ticket booths close at 9:30 p.m.).  Guests can enjoy dozens of bright animal-shaped lights, while sipping hot chocolate, munching on delicious cookies, and listening to wonderful holiday music.  Included with admission is a pair of 3D glasses, which will make the Zoo Lights experience even more engaging and amusing.  General admission is $8.95 plus tax per adult and $6.95 plus tax per child.  Zoo members are $7.95 plus tax per adult and $5.95 plus tax per child. 

 Dinner with Santa will take place on December 23, from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.  Families will be treated to a delicious dinner and photo op with Santa at Wings of Asia.  Children will receive a holiday plush gift and will get to make their own holiday ornaments!  Admission includes parking, entry to Zoo Lights with unlimited carousel rides from 7 – 10 p.m. and a classic holiday menu of fresh roasted turkey with homemade gravy, baked ham, candied sweet potatoes with melting marshmallows, herbed buttery carrots, homemade cranberry sauce, dinner rolls with butter, homemade seasonal pumpkin cake with cream cheese icing, strawberry-infused lemonade, and cranberry mint-infused water.  General admission is $42.95 per adult and $39.95 per child ages 3-12.  Zoo members are $38.95 per adult and $36.95 per child ages 3-12. Children ages 2 and under are free. 

A Magic Gala in the Magic City

Head to the Miami Magic Gala sponsored by the Junior League of Miami (JLM) next Friday, December 10 at the Four Seasons (1435 Brickell Avenue). Enjoy dinner and dancing under the stars, and have the opportunity to bid on 15 raffle packages, along with a special diamond raffle. Tickets cost $150 a person, with all proceeds benefitting the JLM projects which help empower Miami’s women, children and families. Contact Bibi Cruz-Ledon Sears/Marlene Fernandez-Karavetsos, 305.443.0160 or email:  cruzie@aol.com / marleneafernandez@yahoo.com.

Be an Amigo!

 There’s still time to donate a toy for the 19^th Annual Amigos For Kids® Holiday Toy Drive Caravan which will take place on Sunday, December 12 at various locations throughout Miami, embarking on a joy-filled journey of delivering gifts with Santa Claus, celebrities and hundreds of volunteers.   You may request to become a volunteer for the caravan by contacting the telephone number below but all are encouraged to log on and donate toys!

The Toy Drive fulfills the specific wishes of each individual child, as indicated on their wish list.  You may deliver toys for the caravan to Ford Lincoln Mercury locations, select TotalBank locations, Gulliver Schools, Miami Dade College, Republica Agency, Todo Frio and any El Dorado location in South Florida throughout the entire month of December.  Visit the website for exact locations.

To donate your time or resources to children in need, or to volunteer to help with the Amigos Toy Drive, please call 305.279.1155 or visit http://www.amigosforkids.org/amigos.php#toydrive-10.

Santa Paws at Daddy O

On December 16, Daddy O Hotel (9660 East Bay Harbor Drive), the Palm restaurant, and Salon Poochini present a special holiday party from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. to benefit PetNet, the young professional group of the Humane Society of Greater Miami.   A $25 donation entitles guests to complimentary beer and wine throughout the event and delicious bites, courtesy of the legendary Palm restaurant.  Gluhwein, a German holiday drink of hot spiced red wine will also be served. Santa-Paws will be there for photographs of guests and their dogs for the holidays with a portion of the photo proceeds going toward the cause.

There will also be a silent auction.  Daddy O is a dog-friendly hotel and all well-behaved dogs are welcome.  Tours of the newly renovated hotel will be given. The Humane Society of Greater Miami will have a few of Miami’s most eligible dogs there for adoption. 

RSVP to Ricki Diamond at ricki@humanesocietymiami.org or 305-749-1814

Wild for the Holidays at Zoo Miami

Zoo Miami, formerly Miami Metro Zoo (12400 SW 152 Street) is hosting a few special events this season. The zoo’s glorious grounds come to light for 12 brilliant nights during Zoo Lights, December 17 – 30 (excluding December 24 and 25) from 7 – 10 p.m. (ticket booths close at 9:30 p.m.).  Guests can enjoy dozens of bright animal-shaped lights, while sipping hot chocolate, munching on delicious cookies, and listening to wonderful holiday music.  Included with admission is a pair of 3D glasses, which will make the Zoo Lights experience even more engaging and amusing.  General admission is $8.95 plus tax per adult and $6.95 plus tax per child.  Zoo members are $7.95 plus tax per adult and $5.95 plus tax per child.

 Dinner with Santa will take place on December 23, from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.  Families will be treated to a delicious dinner and photo op with Santa at Wings of Asia.  Children will receive a holiday plush gift and will get to make their own holiday ornaments!  Admission includes parking, entry to Zoo Lights with unlimited carousel rides from 7 – 10 p.m. and a classic holiday menu of fresh roasted turkey with homemade gravy, baked ham, candied sweet potatoes with melting marshmallows, herbed buttery carrots, homemade cranberry sauce, dinner rolls with butter, homemade seasonal pumpkin cake with cream cheese icing, strawberry-infused lemonade, and cranberry mint-infused water.  General admission is $42.95 per adult and $39.95 per child ages 3-12.  Zoo members are $38.95 per adult and $36.95 per child ages 3-12. Children ages 2 and under are free. 

 Dinner with Diego will be held December 28, from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m., at the Wings of Asia building.  Diego will be available to take his picture with guests between 8:30 – 8:50 p.m.  Dinner with Diego’s admission includes parking, entry to Zoo Lights with unlimited carousel rides from 7 –10 p.m. and a wonderful dinner including a fresh garden salad with dressing, pan seared chicken breast with herbed shallot cream sauce, chicken tenders with dipping sauce, honey glazed carrots, macaroni and cheese, dinner rolls with butter, chocolate fudge brownies, chocolate blondies, fresh tropical fruit salad, cucumber and lemon infused water, lemonade, and iced tea.  This event is ideal for families with children under eight years of age.  Every paying child also receives a Diego beanie baby plush gift and a meet and greet and photo with Diego!  General admission is $39.95 per adult and $43.95 per child ages 3-12.  Zoo members are $35.95 per adult and $38.95 per child ages 3-12.  Children ages 2 and under are free.   For tickets and more information, visit: www.zoomiami.org

Base Paint Tents

During the week of Art Basel Miami Beach 2010, November 30 through December 5,   join Fundación Manos del Sur and Step by Step Foundation, under the artistic direction of Antuan, as they unveil their latest collaboration, Base Paint Tents. The project will showcase an exhibition and cocktail event hosted by EPIC Residences on their Green. The project was conceived as a collaboration of international artists and nonprofit organizations to support the reconstruction of education in Haiti through art. The distinctive elements include creation and exhibition of the tents at a series of locations and then finally setting-up the finished tents in Haiti.  Artists participating include: Antuan and Elba Luis Lugo, Pedro Barbeito, Jose Bedia, Edouard Duval-Carrie, Jose Garcia Cordero, Nicolas Leiva, Leonel Matheu, Ruben Millares and Antonia Wright, Gean Moreno, and Damian Sarno,.  

On Sunday, December 5, FIU’s Frost Art Museum will host the Base Paint Models at FIU’s 8^th Annual Breakfast in the Park.  The event celebrates Art Basel Miami Beach 2010 with a complimentary breakfast that is open to the public.  Festivities begin a 9:30 in the morning and will run until noon.  For more information visit www.basepaint.org.

Eurocinema

Eurocinema, Miami’s newly launched and only foreign film channel available on-demand, will host an Art Basel-inspired cocktail party and viewing of its latest release, Avenue Montaigne on Wednesday, December 1  at 8 PM at The Rooftop at Gansevoort Miami Beach. Guests will experience the journey of a young woman as she arrives in Paris and embarks on a voyage into her dream world of glamour, luxury and the arts; as the story is projected onto the poolside bar’s main wall and streamed throughout its VIP cabanas. Complimentary Absolut cocktails & Perrier–Jouët champagne till 9 p.m., with reduced Absolut cocktails through 11 p.m.  Special guest DJ Joe Dert will spin an open format mix of house and euro-inspired beats. RSVP to Eurocinema@taraink.com. For more information please visit www.eurocinema.com. Gansevoort Miami Beach is located at 2377 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139.

The Miguel Paredes National Gallery

On Wednesday, December 1, join Miguel Paredes as he unveils his latest creation at the National Hotel.  The South Beach destination has   been  transformed in to the Miguel Paredes National Gallery and will celebrate with an opening reception featuring complimentary cocktails by Bombay Sapphire, beats by Buddha Bar DJ Sam Popat and select works by Hernan Miranda.  The event will run from 8 to 11 p.m.    The following evening,   Paredes along with famed rock photographer Danny Clinch will unveil several collaborative works featuring subjects such as Jack Johnson and the Beastie Boys. The event will feature complimentary cocktails by Dewars and beats by DJ Sam Popat.  This event will also run from 8 to 11 p.m. and both will take place at the National Hotel.  For more information visit  www.miguelparedes.com.

Through William Chewning’s Eyes

On Thursday, December 2, explore and experience the elements of nature through the eyes of William Chewning as he displays his newest collection, “William Chewning’s Big Ideas.”  Back to Art Basel Miami Beach 2010, for the second year,  Chewning will captivate his audience at his 1,800 square foot showroom filled with various abstract pieces, each of which were created using reoccurring imagery, realism, environmental elements and allegorical references. 

Join Chewning for an Art Basel cocktail reception from 7 to 9 p.m. as he reveals a compelling and original “vocabulary” of ideas through the translation of his own life experiences.  Miami Design District 126^th NE 40^th Street or for more information contact Erica@ThePattonGroupInc.com.

Original Penguin Miami’s 5^th  Anniversary

E!’s Michael Yo will host the Original Penguin Miami’s 5th Anniversary on Thursday, December 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. Complimentary cocktails and champagne will be served courtesy of 42Below Vodka and Korbel.  Enjoy 30% off the entire store as you snack on Pirate’s Booty treats while local favorite DJ Dank spins great tunes.  To RSVP visit OPGMIAMI@TARAINK.com or call 305.864.3434 x257.

Art Basel and Angelique Euro Café

Angelique Euro Café is excited to bring a little piece of Art Basel to Coral Gables on Thursday, December 2, as they proudly showcase the original and uplifting art work by local Venezuelan artist, Valentina Ramos; which will remain in display through the 5th of December.  Angelique invites its patrons to celebrate their one-year anniversary and enjoy an evening filled with art, wine and live music beginning at 6:30pm with the sultry notes of RK Duo.  At 7pm, the Battle of the Grapes wine tasting will begin as Angelique highlights California’s other grapes.  For more information visit www.AngeliqueEuroCafe.com.

 Cafeina Presents: Three Stooges We Love

Cafeina invites you to celebrate Three Stooges We Love, a night of art, photography & the written word honoring Patrick McMullan, Brian Antoni, and Robert Chambers on Thursday, December 2,  at 11 p.m. Guests will enjoy complimentary Solerno cocktails until midnight and music by special guest DJ Jeffrey Tonnesen. For one-night only, McMullan will showcase So80s on the garden wall, a compilation of classic photos capturing icons of that decade Madonna, Andy Warhol and Liza Minnelli. Antoni will also host a VIP signing of South Beach the Novel and will donate a percentage of book proceeds to The Trevor Project.  And Robert Chambers will present a sculpture installation. To RSVP go to  cafeina@taraink.com or for more information visit www.cafeinamiami.com.

Barbara Hulanicki Presents “FLASH”

Internationally acclaimed fashion illustrator and designer, Barbara Hulanicki, will host her first-side exhibit at Calix Gustav Gallery. The show, aptly titled FLASH, will feature a series of colorfully infused images reflecting the artist’s life experiences as well as her wild and free imagination.  The opening reception will be held on Saturday,   December 4,   from 6 to 9 p.m.  The exhibition will be featured through February 4, 2011.  To RSVP go to Hulanicki@TARAINK.com. Calix Gustav Gallery, 98 N.W. 29 Street.

Stone Crab Feast at Kitchen 305

Stone crabs lovers are invited to come dip and dance at “The Show” taking place every Friday at Kitchen 305 in the Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort.  The Show features weekly live entertainment to go along with an all-you-can-eat stone crab feast for $42 per person. Make sure to get your fill in before the season for stone-crabbin’ is over!  

Just a “stones” throw-away from the ocean, Kitchen 305 will serve-up claws in batches of five, accompanied by a bowl of New England Clam Chowder and a Wedge Salad with Applewood smoked bacon.  Endless refills are welcomed if there’s still room after the fresh bread and choice of two sides from another grand selection including rice pilaf, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, grilled Portobello mushrooms, charred-cheddar wrapped beefsteak tomatoes and creamed spinach. For table reservations, call 305.749.2110.
  

Roots In The City Farmers Market Re-opens  

Roots In The City Farmers Market will re-open for business on Wednesday, December 8, 2010 at noon. Launched with the support of Wholesome Wave Foundation, the market debuted to national attention in April 2010 as the only wholly local farmer-operated market in Miami and the first urban farmer’s market in Florida to double the value of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (also known as food stamps) towards the purchase of locally-grown produce.  Roots In The City Farmers Market is located in Overtown, at the corner of Northwest Second Avenue and Tenth Street, and will be open to the public every Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. through early summer 2011.