By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

Musical Vibes

On Friday, October 8 the energetic band Cope will show off its live dance-party-inducing chops at the Funky Buddha Lounge in Boca Raton.  The band dabbles in exploratory funk, melodic pop and spirited jams, characterized by “warm, intelligent vocals, blustery guitar and bellowing saxophone.” On Sunday, Oct 10 at the weekly Brotherly Love Productions Sunday Night Cookout at Hurricane Bar in Delray Beach, singer/songwriter Christie Lenée brings her electric energy and soulful insight for an evening of fresh and innovative compositions. Get there early (6-8 PM) for the FREE barbeque. Music starts at 8:30.

In the Pink at Kitchen 305

Kitchen 305 (16701 Collins Avenue) will be transformed into a pink wonderland on October 8 for their annual THINK PINK event, a chic night out that will celebrate fashion, beauty and fun.  Guests will receive VIP treatment all night starting with a paparazzi-friendly, pink carpet arrival. Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy complimentary pink cocktails from 7-8 p.m., a pink dessert menu, assorted hors d’oeuvres and a pink-themed, Truffle Collection fashion show hosted by Tami Donaldson, Miss Maxim USA (see, there’s something for the guys too).  In addition, the Seven Seas Aveda Spa and Salon is hosting a pop up beauty bar with complimentary, spa/beauty treatments and Ta-ta-toos featuring “Think Pink” tats for their ta-tas. Treated like a personal greeting card, ta•ta•toos are temporary tattoos, worn on your “ta•tas,” that relay sentiments in a fun, intimate and original way.   The event also celebrates the birthday of local columnist Aurora Rodriguez, who Kitchen 305 is naming a signature cocktail after that evening. All proceeds will benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, an independent not-for-profit organization whose mission is to achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer. For more information, visit www.newportbeachsideresort.com.

Wynwood Art Walk-Take the Road to Calle, visit Paredes and Arana at Bakehouse

In celebration of Claudia Calle winning first place in the International Photography Awards (“IPA”) in the category of fine arts collage Calle will showcase The Road to Calle: Republic of China, a solo exhibition at Luis Perez Galeria / Awarehouse.  The artist will feature a series of socio-cultural images, which represent China’s controversial mass production issues, globalization, copyrights and propaganda.  Slated to coincide with Wynwood’s monthly Second Saturday Art Walk, the opening reception on Saturday, October 9 from 7 to 11 p.m. is free and open to the public. 

 A beer sampling courtesy of Samuel Adams and DJ sets by Aramis (Poplife), Mr. Pauer (Fabrika) and Kiko de Gallo (Groovalizacion) will set the tone at Luis Perez Galeria / Awarehouse (550 NW 29^th Street), with the official after-party taking place at Grand Central.  For more information, visit www.claudiacalle.com  www.awarehousemiami.com.   

While you are traipsing through Wynwood, be sure to visit celebrated artist, Miguel Paredes’ exhibit, from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m., when Paredes Fine Arts Studio will be open to the public offering guests a chance to view new, never-before-seen art work while enjoying complimentary cocktails by Ice Tropez and live music by DJ Ari X.

Also be sure to swing by the Bakehouse Art Complex (561 NW 32nd Street) where newcomer, Juan Carlos Arana will be inaugurating his new studio (9U on the second floor).  Arana will host a special reception on Friday, October 8 at his studio from 7-10 p.m.

Sink or Sing at Vinyl & Kai

Every Tuesday at Vinyl & Kai, you can channel your favorite American Idol by belting out your favorite song from 11 p.m. – 2 a.m., without the fear of being judged.  Karaoke night is coupled with ladies night, which means ladies get $3 cocktails from 9pm – midnight which could have good or bad results when it comes to the singing-depending on which side of the microphone you are on.  On Tuesday, October 12, Vinyl & Kai along with Cassandra Martino PR invites you to a special Ladies Night Karaoke event hosted by a few of your favorite local ladies: Annie Vazquez, Jilian Sanz, Kelly Talamas, Lauren Gnazzo, Liana Lozada, Maria Arguello, Mary Jo Shore, Megan Harris, Stephanie Wilson and Tracy Block.  Warning:  don’t sit too close to a speaker.

Patterns for Paws

Join celebrity design Icon and host, Thom Filicia for Patterns for PAWS –a canine couture fashion show and luncheon – at DCOTA (1855 Griffin Road) on Wednesday, October 13, for which top designers create one of a kind canine looks from the most celebrated textile houses in the industry including Brunschwig + Fils, Missoni, Romo, Oscar de la Renta, Quadrille, Pierre Frey, Luigi Bevilacqua, and more. During the event, the looks will be auctioned and puppies will be adopted.  All proceeds benefit the Humane Society. Tickets cost $85 for standard seating, and $125 for designer table seating.  Call 954.266.6827 for reservations or visit www.dcota.com for more information.

Come Play with Judge Karen

TV personality Judge Karen Mills Francis will host a book review and signing of her new book Stay in Your Lane: Judge Karen’s Guide to Living Your Best Life, on Wednesday October 13 at Play Nightclub(1045 5^th Street) from 7 to 9 p.m. A portion of the admission to the club and a percentage of the sales of the book from the evening will benefit Casa Valentina a charity dedicated to helping young women transition from foster care to independent living.

The admission for the evening is $25 and includes valet parking, open bar and hors d’oeuvres from 7 to 9 pm.  Following the book signing, guests are invited to stay for Play Nightclub’s Comedy Night, where a major comedian will perform a stand up routine. To RSVP, call 305.532.4340.

Signature Chefs & Wine Extravaganza

On October 14, the March of Dimes Signature Chefs & Wine Extravaganza will welcome philanthropic Florida foodies for an evening packed with fine wines, delicious fair and fantastic amounts of fun. “Celebuchef” Sunny Anderson of Food Network fame will be flying into Miami to lend her star power to the Signature Chefs roster, which is packed with Miami’s top toques who have earned celebrity status in kitchens around our city—think: Chef Timon Balloo of Sugarcane, Sean Brasel of Meat Market, Chef Marco Ferraro of Wish, Chef Allen Susser of Chef Allen’s, Chef Kris Wessel of Red Light Little River, and more. The event takes place at Jungle Island, (1111 Parrot Jungle Trail) starting at 6:30.  Throughout the event, guests will sip on wines and champagnes from the world’s finest vineyards and distilleries, courtesy of Southern Wine and Spirits, and nosh on small bites while enjoying entertainment as well as live and silent auctions. The best part: it’s all for a good cause—all proceeds go directly to March of Dimes. Tickets: $150 per person in advance; $175 at the door.  Limited tickets for both the Extravaganza and an exclusive VIP Champagne Reception are $250.   For more information and to RSVP, visit the website: www.marchofdimes.com/florida.

Creative Children Therapy CIFO and David “LEBO” LeBatard

On Thursday, September 30^th from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., CCT will host their 4th annual exhibition “Inspired by the Beat” at the Cisneros Fontanals Art Foundation (CIFO) in Miami.  All event proceeds will go to funding the organization’s art programs, which focus on helping children with special needs in the Miami community.   This year’s event will feature local artist David ‘LEBO’ Le Batard alongside 23 artists from CCT’s Artistic Realization Technologies program.  Four collaborative works between the Artists of CCT and LEBO will be auctioned off at the event, which will also feature the debut of “LEBO Live” – A multimedia experience including:  live painting, video mixing, and music.  LEBO’s new coffee table book, Inspired by the Beat will be available for viewing and purchase at the event.  CCT is dedicated to improving the quality of life of children with special needs through “superior therapeutic intervention.” In addition to providing medical services, the main goal is to provide creative programs that help these kids develop socially and artistically.  For more information and to purchase tickets go to www.cct-art.eventbrite.com.

Corey Michaels Premieres His “Rockstar” Video

Miami-based recording artist Corey Michaels will premiere the music video for his infectious first single “Rockstar” from his debut album, Who Killed the King?, with an exclusive performance at TWIST on Friday, October 1^st at 11 p.m. The music video will premiere in the Frolic Video Lounge at 1:00 a.m.,   followed by a performance by Michaels. After the performance, Michaels will be gifting t-shirts and copies of his album to his fans during a meet and greet/signing period. Who Killed the King? is available now at the iTunes Store (http://tinyurl.com/CoreyMichaels).

Diamonds are Forever

On Saturday, October 2^nd, join Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation for the 2010 Diamond Ball.    Start the social season with the party of the year – take a step back to 1950, to an evening of glamour, cheek-to-cheek dancing and culinary delights as they celebrate the 60^th Anniversary of Miami Children’s Hospital!  This year’s theme “Diamonds…Forever: “Honoring the Past. Celebrating the Future”- Commemorating Miami Children’s Hospital Diamond Anniversary – 60 Years of World-Class Care – Anniversary Celebration to honor the legacy of medical excellence while celebrating the future of our children.  Barbara and Jack Nicklaus – the first family of golf, champions of children’s causes, and partners in Palm Beach County – will be inducted into the Ambassador David M. Walters International Pediatric Hall of Fame for their work on behalf of children. Guests will enjoy performances by Cuban-American Grammy Winner Albita, Bruce Green Orchestra and Anthony Bucciero. The event will be held at the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach 4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach.  For more information, contact Morgana Rolle at mrolle@mchf.org or 786-624-2038. 

Hollywood Across America

Professionals behind artists such as Miley Cyrus, Taylor Lautner, Dakota Fanning and hit movies like Harry Potter, Transformers, The Da Vinci Code and High School Musical are looking for their next star.  Hollywood Across  America, a hands-on workshop and showcase led by entertainment industry veterans, is coming to South Florida on Saturday, October 2^nd  and Sunday October 3^rd .  Local actors, models and other aspiring talent interested in learning from some of Hollywood’s top industry professionals will enjoy a weekend full of seminars, coaching and performances at Miami Beach’s Sea View Hotel. The two day event will be held at the Sea View Hotel, 9909 Collins Avenue, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.  Tickets cost $445 (payment plans are available). Talent ages: 6 and up.  For more information go to www.hollywoodacrossamerica.com or call producer Sherry Faith at 305-899-2288 and/or 561-239-5445.

 Shoe Shopping at Dulce

On Thursday, October 7, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., reality show vixen Evelyn Lozada will host a private cocktail celebrating friend and renowned Italian shoe designer Francesco Sacco. Held at Lozada’s trendy shoe boutique Dulce, located on Miracle Mile, the intimate event will offer an exclusive preview of the designer’s new collection.  

Esteemed guests, including guest of honor Francesco Sacco, will enjoy complimentary champagne and cupcakes provided by Stella’s Sweet Shoppe. Shoppers will also have the opportunity to have their new Francesco Sacco stems signed by the designer, for a truly enviable pair of soles. For more information call 305-864-3434 extension 122 or Dulce@taraink.com.

Sip and Spa at the Palms Hotel

Sip & Spa at The Palms Hotel is back! The popular weekly happy hour at Essensia Lounge returns on Thursday Oct. 7^th with great drink and food specials which include half-off all appetizers and cocktails from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. plus complimentary Chandon Rose Brut between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. In addition, The Palms AVEDA Spa is offering half-off all spa services from 4:00  to 9:00 p.m. Throughout the month of October, The Palms Spa joins AVEDA’s efforts in raising funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding clinical and genetic research on breast cancer at medical institutions across the globe. The Aveda Pink Ribbon Hand Relief™ will be available for purchase with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The Palms Spa is also donating 10% of their pink nail polish sales to BCRF.  Sip & Spa takes place every Thursday night from 6:00 to10:00 p.m. at Essensia Lounge and from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. at The Palms Spa. Valet parking costs $9 for Sip & Spa guests and is complimentary if combined with dinner at Essensia Restaurant.  For more information visit www.thepalmshotel.com or call 305.908.5458. The Palms Hotel & Spa is located on 3025 Collins Avenue.

Cafeina Launches Wynwood Art Center

As if we needed yet another incentive to head to Cafeina, Wynwood’s trendiest lounge/resto/gallery introduces Art Industry Thursdays, catered to the artists, aficionados and curators who help paint the portrait of the Magic City, along with the unveiling of the Wynwood Exhibition Center at Cafeina (WEC), formerly Cafeina’s 1,000 foot art gallery. Beginning Thursday, September 23, members of Miami’s art communities will receive WEC Perk Cards granting them a 25 percent discount on food and drink purchases from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. in addition to a 15 percent discount on non-Art Industry nights (offer not valid during happy hour). Guests attending the launch party will be treated to complimentary cocktails from 8 to 9 p.m. and music by DJ Bhakti Baxter.

 Cafeina’s owner Ivette Naranjo says, “The launch of WEC, Art Industry and the perk cards are a nod to our neighbors who are working together in making Wynwood Art District a success. I want our exhibition space to be a compliment to the Wynwood Art District as opposed to a competitor in it. My goal is to create a place where Miami’s artistic minds gather to enjoy, discuss and display the work that drives them.” If you ask us, Cafeina’s been achieving that since day one.  Guests are asked to RSVP to cafeina@taraink.com with their art affiliation.

Denim and Diamonds

Udonis Haslem and other Miami Heat players will be doubling down, rolling dice, picking their lucky numbers and going all-in to raise money for the Udonis Haslem Children’s Foundation during the 6^th annual Denim & Diamonds fundraising event, which takes place on Saturday, September 25, form 7-11 p.m. at the Grand Ballroom at Fairmont Turnberry Isle (19999 West Country Club Drive in Aventura). 

DJ Irie will serve as emcee and several celebs and sports figures will be on-hand to try their luck at roulette, craps, poker, blackjack and slots.  Expect delicious passed fare from Fairmont Turnberry Isle’s talented chefs, live music and entertainment, cash bars and an impressive array of raffle and silent auction items. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Udonis Haslem Children’s Foundation, a non-profit organization designed to help at-risk youth reach their full potential both in the classroom and as individuals.

General admission tickets cost $125 per ticket in advance/ $150 at the door. VIP tickets are priced at $500 each and include exclusive benefits such as the opportunity to play poker alongside the Miami Heat players. Seating is limited. Tickets may be purchased by calling Barbara Wooten at 954-854-9496.

A Different Kind of Clubbing

For the seventh year in a row, the Junior League of Miami will host a golf tournament to raise funds to support the organization’s ongoing efforts to promote volunteerism and to benefit its community projects. The scramble-style tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. at the famed Blue Monster golf course at Doral Golf Resort & Spa (4400 N.W. 87th Avenue).  The entry fee is $250 per person; $900 for a foursome. Not a golfer? Don’t fret—you can still participate in the post-tournament cocktail reception, which kicks off at 5:30 p.m. The celebratory evening will feature live music, a silent auction and raffle with fantastic prizes, and delicious cuisine. To register or purchase tickets, visit the Junior League website: https://www.jlmiami.org/fundraisers-golfform.php.

By:  Maryanne Salvat

 Arts & Crafts Series at Buck15: Round 2

South Beach’s favorite hidden bar continues its local art contest this September with sneakers sponsored by Puma.  Locals are encouraged to pick up a white Puma sneaker and decorate it any way they wish. Artists have until the 13th of September to hand in their sneakers that will be displayed on the walls of Buck15 along with voting cards throughout the month.  Buck15 patrons will have up until the 28th of September to vote for their favorite piece.  The winners will be announced that Tuesday evening at 11:30 p.m.  First place winner will be awarded a $75 gift certificate to La Epoca Department Store located at 200 East Flagler Street in Downtown; second place winner will receive a $75 bar comp at Buck15 to be used by October 28; third place winner will receive a $25 Miss Yip gift certificate. To participate, contact Cesar@Buck15.net or www.buck15.net.

On Saturday, September 11 from 7  to 10 p.m., coinciding with Wynwood’s monthly art walk, Calix Gustav Gallery will debut its darkest exhibit to-date, Mörker, a look into the gloomy obscurity of children’s dreams. Together, featured artists Johan Björkegren and Ingrid Eliasson along with Jennifer Basile, create an intriguing juxtaposition of fear and serenity through their charcoal drawings and crocheted fiver tapestries. Gallery owner and curator Amanda Fernandez-Leon will also unveil CG Boutique, a smaller gallery within Calix Gustav’s walls intended for the younger art collector.
 

 September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

The Melanie Finley Ovarian Cancer Foundation (MFOCF) is hosting an inaugural awareness week September 13 – 17th,  sponsored by 123 Lumpsum,  featuring a variety of social events to celebrate survivors while raising awareness and donations to fight the disease.  On Monday, September 13th, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. enjoy complimentary martinis and makeovers in addition to a 10% discount on all beauty products with a portion of proceeds benefitting MFOCF.  The event is free and open to the public at  GBS, The Beauty Store 31 N. Federal Highway in Ft. Lauderdale.  On Tuesday, September 14th, from 6 to 8 p.m., wine and dine at a private east Fort Lauderdale residence with live entertainment for $20 per person with proceeds benefitting MFOCF.  There will be a presentation by Dr. Steven Poliakoff M.D., M.B.A., Finley’s doctor and the founder and CEO of South Florida Gynecologic Oncology Associates, Inc. and Executive Medical Director of The Women’s Cancer Research Foundation.  For additional information, contact: info@mfocf.com or jen@wasie.org.  On Wednesday, September 15th, from 6:00 to 7:45 p.m. celebrate National Yoga Month and Ovarian Cancer Month at Ayama Yoga in Aventura with a 90-minute Vinyasa class.  A $10 donation will be made to the MFOCF for every student in attendance.  Students of all levels are encouraged to participate and experience the many benefits of yoga including improved health, posture, strength, balance and flexibility. The cost of the class is $18.  Complimentary refreshments provided by Honest Tea will be available after class.  Ayama Yoga Center is located at2624 N.E. 188th St., North Miami Beach.  Free parking is available.  On Thursday, September 16th, from 6:30 to 9 p.m., enjoy  a fashion fundraising soiree at Lilac And Lilies new boutique across from the Galleria Mall.  Twenty percent of proceeds from sales will benefit MFOCF.  Shop star-studded styles including Nicole Richie’s House of Harlow 1960 jewelry collection, Trina Turk, J Brand denim, Black Halo, Alex & Ani accessories and MM Couture.  The event is free and open to the public.  Lilac & Lilies, 2541 East Sunrise Boulevard, Ft. Lauderdale.  On Friday, September 17th, head to SHO Nightclub from 8:00 to 10 p.m., make a $30 donation to the MFOCF, and enjoy 2 complimentary cocktails and appetizers and then dance the night away at Ft. Lauderdale’s premier, upscale nightclub.  SHO Nightclub  is located at 15 West Las Olas Boulevard in Ft. Lauderdale.

Mercadito Midtown 

In honor of the 200 years of Mexico’s independence from Spanish rule, and 100 years of its revolution that began in 1910, Mercadito Midtown celebrates “El Grito de La Independencia” with authentic Mexican cuisine by Chef Patricio Sandoval in a lively, festive ambiance. In addition to the restaurant’s a la carte menu, holiday offerings will include succulent cochinita tacos ($16), made with achiote marinated pork belly, sour orange, pickled onions, and chiles en nogada ($22); a traditional Mexican specialty dish featuring stuffed poblano, pork, beef, dried fruit, spices, walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds, that will be available on the menu during the entire month of September. Mexican Independence Day festivities get underway at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 15.  A live Mariachi band will perform from 9 to 11 p.m.  Guests will be able to order their favorite Mercadito cocktails, created by the Tippling Bros., at the bar indoors or at a special outdoor bar.  Mercadito Midtown is located at 3252 NE 1^st Avenue, in Miami’s Midtown Neighborhood. Valet and municipal parking is available. Reservations are suggested at (786) 369-0430; www.mercaditorestaurants.com.