Dream in Green

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On May - 1 - 2013ADD COMMENTS
Amber Valletta & Rohan Marley1 credit WorldRedEye

Amber Valletta & Rohan Marley

By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore 

“Everyone can do one thing to help the environment and to improve the planet,” said Yalmaz Siddiqui, Office Depot’s Director of Environmental Strategy, as he addressed a stylish, enviro-conscious crowd at the Forge Restaurant/Wine Bar during this year’s Eco-Lifestyle Gala on April 20.  In its third year, the gala, hosted by South Florida Green Drinks, aims to raise awareness and to benefit Global Green USA and Dream In Green’s efforts to “green” South Florida Schools.

The event offered an opportunity to expand the environmental audience throughout South Florida’s communities while also honoring those whose commitment to an eco-lifestyle has helped ignite change and innovation. The 2013 Eco-Lifestyle Award honorees included Supermodel , actress, and Eco-Activist, Amber Valletta, and Rohan Marley, Eco-Pioneer and founder of the organic coffee company, Marley Coffee.

The party began with a VIP reception at the stunning Terra Veritatis, the newly renovated home of William H. Dean who served as Honorary Event Chair along with Capponi Group Founder and renowned philanthropist, Michael Capponi. Guests enjoyed light fare and stimulating conversations while sipping sparkling wine and cocktails before moving on to the awards dinner in the East Room of the Forge. Forge owner Shareef Malnik and girlfriend, actress Gabrielle Anwar once again lent their support to SFGD’s Eco-Lifestyle Gala and to SFGD co-founders Marci Zaroff and Yalmaz Siddiqui. Read the rest here »

 

Nick D'Annunzio, Ivette Naranjo, & Tara Solomon

Nick D’Annunzio, Ivette Naranjo, & Tara Solomon

By: Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

 A Burlesque Anniversary for Cafeina 

To say that Cafeina’s VIP anniversary party was a blast would be an understatement.   In fact we can’t recall a time over the past three years when we haven’t had the time of our lives at the chic, original Wynwood lounge (which moonlights as a gallery, garden, restaurant and event space).  It’s hard to believe that it’s been three years since the grand opening blow-out, which featured a liger (You read that correctly).  This year’s celebration featured carnal pleasures versus carnivores, but was equally exciting. For the bash, owner and founder Ivette Naranjo, invited Burlesque- dancers who could have doubled for Dita Von Teese– to heat up an already saucy party with performances that captivated the crowd. DJ A train kept the music playing while servers served up complimentary artisanal cocktails designed by Bar Lab veteran, David Boxwill and Latin-infused bites by Chef Diego Pasqualicchio from Cafeina’s new menu.  The event also marked the official debut of The Mezzanine, a gorgeous second floor lounge transformed by interior designer Todd Corder.  The new space is reminiscent of a 1920’s speak-easy- complete with one-off antique furnishings and also boasts a newly constructed private bar.  The Mezzanine holds up to 50 guests, making it ideal for special events and group gatherings. Read the rest here »

Celebrity Sightings:

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On April - 25 - 2013ADD COMMENTS
Tracy Morgan

Tracy Morgan courtesy of Twitter

Comedians, Tracy Morgan and Sarah Silverman stayed at The Raleigh this past weekend during South Beach Comedy Festival.

Alonzo and Tracy Mourning hosted a luncheon at Prime 112 to announce The Mourning Family Foundation’s official rebrand from Alonzo Mourning Charities on Tuesday, April 16. The luncheon served as the backdrop to unveil the new MFF logo, announce the launch of its website and recognize and thank its new leadership team, Board of Directors and select sponsors.   

Desmond Child, CEO and co founder of the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame; Rudy Perez, co-founder of the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame; actor Andy Garcia, and singers Natalie Cole and Paulina Rubio along with Draco Rosa and Ruben Blades attended Tuesday night’s Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame at the New World Symphony.  Mayoral candidate, Michael Gongora welcomed the star-studded crowd and presented keys to the city to inductees, which included Julio Iglesias and Jose Feliciano. 

American actress and model Amber Valetta attended the private EcoLifestyle Gala in the East Room of The Forge Restaurant | Wine Bar on Saturday evening. (Check back next week for full gala coverage.) 

In support of the 2013 ConAgra Foods Child Hunger Ends Here campaign, singer, Tori Kelly visited Glory Temple, Agency of Feeding South Florida- the third stop on her Fill a Heart Tour. Tori will be making stops at nine cities across the nation to lend her hand at local food banks, as part of ConAgra Foods ongoing partnership with Feeding America. She will complete each visit with a performance of her original song “Fill a Heart”, written specifically for the Child Hunger Ends Here campaign. “Fill a Heart” is available for sale on iTunes today and a portion of the proceeds will be donated through Tori’s partnership with ConAgra Foods’ Child Hunger Ends Here campaign.

llBy: Maryanne Salvat

Lilac And Lilies Boutique Hosts Jennifer Zeuner

Now that spring has finally sprung, Lilac And Lilies Boutique is teaming up with celebrity jewelry designer Jennifer Zeuner to host an exclusive trunk show party on Thursday, April 25 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Guests will have the rare opportunity to meet and get styled by Zeuner while enjoying cocktails, light bites and 15% off of her new spring accessories.  The event is free and open to the public. Zeuner’s latest collections range from delicate gold chains with fun, feminine charms to bold, thick silver chains with chunky aqua quartzes. Zeuner’s designs demonstrate a fresh approach to organic contrast. Popular amongst celebrities, including Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez and Alessandra Ambrosio, Zeuner’s jewelry carries a unique look of freedom and creativity that promises to add punch to any spring ensemble; to RSVP, email Kelli@LilacAndLilies.com or call 954.530.3109.

 

 guerlainembedGuerlain Presents “I Want Candy” at Saks Fifth Avenue

Starting April 25, look out for lots of color on the ground floor of Saks Fifth Avenue Kendall location as Guerlain kicks off the weeklong “I Want Candy” mega event to launch the much-anticipated Gloss d’Enfer lipgloss and lacquer collection. The first 200 customers at the event will receive a mini Gloss d’Enfer in Candy Stripe, a lustrous and wearable fuchsia. During this weeklong celebration, Guerlain experts will be on hand to create personalized palettes using the Gloss d’Enfer collection. What better way to ring in Spring than by adding a splash of excitement and “wow” to any make-up regimen. Guerlain’s new ultra-vibrant and undeniably gorgeous shades make accessorizing any look simple and accessible. To make it all a little sweeter, all customers will receive an exclusive and luxurious brush set with any $400 Guerlain purchase.

 

Harry Connick Jr. to Perform at the Adrienne Arsht Center Gala

Harry Connick, Jr., one of the entertainment world’s most celebrated, multifaceted talents will take the stage of the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts on Miami-Dade County’s John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall for a special performance at the Center’s 2013 Gala on Friday, April 26. Connick, recipient of three Grammy Awards, three Emmy Awards and two Tony Award nominations, will perform an intimate show for Miami’s philanthropic, business and civic leaders. Gala proceeds will support the Center’s mission-driven arts education and community outreach programs. The 2013 Gala will take place at the John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall, where the venue’s orchestra level will be transformed into “a festival floor” – creating an elegant evening and offering guests a memorable, intimate experience in a world-class setting. The event’s attire is black tie optional. Limited table sponsorship opportunities are available for $50,000, $25,000 and $15,000 and individual tickets are available for $2,500. For more information about corporate and individual sponsorship opportunities or to RSVP for the event, call 786.468.2020 or email advancement@arshtcenter.org.

 

Dolcevita Cashmere Opening

Dolcevita Cashmere has made a huge impact on the U.S. market; winning the “Pret-a-Porter Designer of the Year” 2013 at Miami International Fashion Week and being featured in the Wall Street Journal. Now the brand known for innovating new applications in cashmere will be opening its doors this Friday in the Design District. See for yourself how they prove that cashmere is no longer just for gloves and scarves.  For more information, contact:  nick.betancourt@yahoo.com.

 

locLocust Projects’ 10th Annual Spring Fling

On Saturday, April 27 from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m., a who’s who of art collectors will converge on the seventh floor of the sexy, 1111 Lincoln Road Building on Miami Beach for the Locust Projects’ tenth annual Spring Flingevent. A host committee including power-house names like Christies, Mario Cader-Frech, Debra & Dennis Scholl, Sotheby’s, The Related Group, Susie & Walid Wahab/ Wahab Construction, teamed up for the planning of this signature event, which consistently attracts a diverse and enthusiastic group of South Florida’s top collectors, enthusiasts, and hipsters. In signature Locust Projects fashion, Spring Fling attendees will have all of their senses tickled as they are treated to delectable treats from Michael Schwartz’s Design District brainchild, Harry’s Pizzeria, Miami Beach’s Shake Shack, Khong River House, Yardbird, Macchialina, Swine and Misha’s Cupcakes. The Luxury Goods Silent Auction will feature auction items like gift certificates to Marni, Todd’s and Neiman Marcus. Guests can also dance to music.But the highlight of the evening is Locust Projects’ newly formatted Silent Art Auction featuring hand-picked and internationally-renowned artists such as Hernan Bas, Nathan Carter, Francesca DiMattio, Kate Gilmore, Jon Pylypchuk, Retna, Cristina Lei Rodriguez and Andrew Schoultz. Purchase tickets online: http://www.locustprojects.org/events/event/spring-fling-fundraiser/Ticket (per person) $150 / $125 Locust Projects Member.

 

 

Fashion for Cancer at Filomena Fernandez Boutique

On Saturday, April 27 from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m., Filomena Fernandez Boutique will host a fashion event benefitting the Children’s Cancer Caring Center, Inc. A very special fashion show featuring Cancer Survivors from the CCCC family will take place at 3:00 p.m.; to RSVP contact dania@blinkpr.com.  A $45 donation per person is required at the door (tax deductible); All donations and 15% of shopping proceeds go to the Children’s Cancer Caring Center, Inc.

                                                            

 

 

happy_childrens_day_headerBy: Maryanne Salvat 

The Fifth Annual Children Helping Children Program 

Every year on May 5, Japan sets aside the day to celebrate children’s health, growth and happiness, and Benihana is bringing this holiday to life with its fifth annual Children Helping Children program, which supports St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. From now until May 5, children visiting any Benihana location can participate by drawing a picture to signify what “Children Helping Children” means to them. For each entry collected, Benihana will donate $1 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. One winning entry will be selected from each restaurant to receive dinner for 8 people. In addition, 100 percent of the purchase price for all of the Benihana Kabuki Kids meals served on Children’s Day, May 5, will be donated to St. Jude. 

 

Poseidon_grandopeningPoseidon Greek Restaurant Celebrates Their Grand Opening  

Poseidon Greek Restaurant & Outdoor Lounge has arrived bringing vibrant energy and Greek culture to South Beach. Guests are invited experience what authentic Greek cuisine is all about with indoor and outdoor seating. Executive Chef Demetrios Pyliots, takes pride in cooking with authentic Greek and natural ingredients such as Kalamata olives, oregano, rosemary and thyme that are grown and imported from Taygetos Mountain of Kalamata; pure Chios masticha, grown in the Skinos tree; and the Messinian Bay delicacy, a wild fish egg caviar and fresh fish imported from the Aegean Sea of Greece to name a few.  Guest are in for a special treat at Poseidon’s Grand Opening Celebration as they will be able to try greek bites and cocktails on Wednesday, April 17; for more information visit:  www.poseidonmiami.com.

 

cochon555-300x296The Cochon 555

On Sunday, April 21, the Cochon 555 tour will then land at the Four Seasons Miami with an impressive roster of gastronomic superstars:  Aaron Brooks (Edge Steakhouse / Four Seasons), Timon Balloo (Sugarcane), Jeffrey McInnis (Yardbird), David Thomas (Bazaar) and Cesare Zapata (The Federak). Tickets start at $125 and include incredible pork dishes by some of the city’s best chefs, wine, mezcal and bourbon tastings, pork-spiked desserts and more. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit: www.cochon555.com.

 

Inaugural Gentlemen’s Night Out Presented by Turner Construction 

On Thursday, April 18, join Michael Baiamonte, voice of the Miami Heat, for an exclusive, sophisticated gentlemen’s event featuring tastings of premium scotches, spirits and selections of the finest cigars. Featuring a silent auction and entertainment, this event serves as an opportunity for men to come together for networking, entertainment, camaraderie and philanthropy.  An All in Fore the Kids event, the Inaugural Gentlemen’s Night Out Presented by Turner Construction raises funds to support the children and families at Miami Children’s Hospital. Gentlemen will have the opportunity to have their photo taken with the 1973 Vince Lombardi Trophy awarded to the Miami Dolphins after “The Perfect Season.” For more information, visit mchf.org/gentlemensnightout. 

 

Miami Children’s 31st Annual Corporate Golf Invitational 

On Friday, April 19, tee up for a good cause! Join business and community leaders as well as former Miami Dolphins player Dick Anderson to raise funds in support of the children and families at Miami Children’s Hospital. Enjoy a beautiful golf outing at the Biltmore Hotel and Golf Course and reception featuring a spectacular silent auction.  Corporate groups and foursomes are invited to participate in this day-long event. Show off your driving skills and support a worthy cause. Not a golfer? No problem! Sponsorship, underwriting and volunteer opportunities are also available. The Miami Children’s 31st Annual Corporate Golf Invitational is an All in Fore the Kids event. For more information, visit mchf.org/corporategolf.  

 

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden Food & Garden Festival

On Saturday April 20 and Sunday, April 21, visit Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden for the annual Food & Garden Festival featuring the 34th Annual Spring Plant Sale to celebrate the arrival of spring.Sample delicious seasonal foods, learn how to care for and maintain your edible gardens throughout the summer months, and take home healthy plants grown by Fairchild and local plant societies. Food & Garden Festival is free for Fairchild members and children 5 and under. For nonmembers, admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, and $12 for children 6-17. Those who walk, bike, or take public transportation receive $5 off adult admission and $2 off child admission. Those with a Military ID have free admission, with $20 for their spouses and $10 for their children. For more information and a complete schedule, visit www.fairchildgarden.org.

 

2013-miami-beach-polo-world-cup-ix-posterLa Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup

The Polo Life, LLC presents the ninth annual La Martina Miami Beach Polo World Cup, the world’s largest and most prestigious Beach Polo competition, taking place from April 25 to April 28 between 20th and 22nd Streets on the sands of South Beach, Florida.   Tickets are now on sale at www.miamipolo.com.  The four-day, globally renowned sporting event, considered the most coveted of its kind, features top polo players from around the world competing in two tournaments for both men and women.  As part of the daily experience at this year’s event, Aventura Mall will be the official retail partner for the design and creation of the retail village within the venue between 20th and 22nd Streets on the sands of South Beach. Existing retailers at Aventura Mall will have a presence at the retail village, allowing attendees to browse and purchase dozens of the their favorite brands, including the latest from TAG Heuer, while taking a break from watching some of the world’s top polo players. Courtesy cocktails will be provided by GREY GOOSE Vodka in the VIP tent throughout the four days. General admission to both competitions and adjacent retail village is free, and concessions will be available to purchase. A limited number of VIP tickets are available that allows entrance to the shaded grandstand, where complimentary food and beverages are served. Ticket prices are $100 for Thursday, April 25th and $130 for Friday, April 26th through Sunday, April 28th. Children 12 to 18 years-old pay half the adult ticket price and children younger than 12 years-old receive free admission. A percentage of all ticket sales will go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Miami, the tournament’s official charity partner. A three-day VIP pass can be purchased for $375.  A four-day VIP pass can be purchased for $450 at www.miamipolo.com; for more information on the tournament and the events or to purchase VIP tickets, visit www.miamipolo.com or call 305-538-3809. For further information on The Polo Life, visit www.thepololife.com

 

Fertile Earth Foundation

On Tuesday, April 30, from 6:00 until 10:00 p.m., Fertile Earth Foundation (FEF), a Florida based non-profit organization, best known for its composting and waste reduction initiatives, will host their 2nd Annual “Underground Miami” fundraising event along with The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce benefitting the organization. Fresh off their success with the Ladies of Manure 2013 Calendar, the ladies of FEF will get you to rethink all your waste with specially commissioned art installation made with, you guessed it, manure! Held at The Palms Hotel and Spa,  Underground Miami will also feature an exotic invasive species dinner by Signature Chef Julie Frans of Essensia Restaurant, Chef Todd Erickson of Haven and award-winning Miami Chef Kris Wessel of Florida Cookery. On the menu are Lion Fish, Wild Boar, Snake Head Fish, Python and more. Another highlight of the evening will be a “Cow Chip Tossing Contest” between Miami Beach Mayoral Candidates. Jerry Libbin has issued a challenge to all Candidates to participate. There will also be a silent and live auction. Ticket prices range between $75 and $125.  Early bird discounts available for $50 and $87.50 until April 16;for tickets go to: http://www.fertileearth.org/shop-events.

Culture Your Canine

You and your four-legged friend can attend a one-of-a-kind shopping experience when you attend Culture Your Canine on Thursday, May 2 in Coral Gables benefiting the animals at the Humane Society of Greater Miami. (Note: Only well behaved, vaccinated, and leashed dogs are invited.)Guests will browse the wonderful selection of items available at Fine Line Furniture and Accessories, Filomena Fernandez Clothing Boutique, The Americas Collection Fine Arts Gallery, and Gallilani, all located at 4217 and 4213 Ponce De Leon Boulevard. Each showroom will provide music, drinks and light bites and cocktails courtesy of GREY GOOSE Vodka. There will also be a fabulous silent auction and raffle. There is a $15 fee at the door and 15% of all sales made that evening will benefit the organization as well. RSVP@Fineline.us. Visit www.humanesocietymiami.org to pre-register and make your donation online. For additional information, contact Dani Kandera at the Humane Society of Greater Miami at PetNet@humanesocietymiami.com.

Celebrity Sightings:

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On April - 17 - 2013ADD COMMENTS
Yann Arthus Bertrand, Larsa and Scottie Pippen

Yann Arthus Bertrand, Larsa and Scottie Pippen

On Friday night, Major League Baseball first baseman Ryan James Howard of the Philadelphia Phillies visited The Forge Restaurant | Wine Bar. Howard came in with his wife just after 10:30 p.m. and enjoyed a variety of dishes prior to leaving later in the evening.   

On Saturday evening, World Champion Boxer Bernard Hopkins and former Village People member Randy Jones visited The Forge to dine and enjoy the ambiance. Hopkins sat in the main dining room with a group of guests. Jones had arrived earlier in the evening and enjoyed the Veuve Clicquot Happy Hour with close friends. 

Famed directors, Yann Arthus-Bertrand and Michael Pitiot joined forces with Swiss watchmaker OMEGA to create Planet Ocean, a landmark new environmental documentary.  Arthus-Bertrand was on hand for the film’s screening and cocktail party on Tuesday, at the Adrienne Arsht Center, along with SurfRider, and notables including: Larsa & Scottie Pippen, Chris & Adrienne Bosh (who was celebrating her birthday), Greg Frehling, Karina Ors, and Michelle Pooch.

Sponsors