By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

The “M” in WMC could easily stand for Madness or Mayhem on any given year, however, this year the “M” took on new meaning, as Madonna released her new CD, MDNA and made a surprise appearance at Ultra during a set by Avicii. 

On Friday night, several hundred Madonna fans danced by the pool bar enjoying the ocean breeze at the Delano for the exclusive release party for MDNA, Madonna’s latest album which officially launched on Monday and is already number 1 on the Billboard charts in over 35 countries. Read the rest here »

Rafael Nadal

Paris Hilton and Afrojack were spotted at WALL Tuesday night, kicking off Winter Music Conference. They danced all night to music by Afrojack’s protégé Bobby Burns and at one point, Afrojack got on the turntables for an impromptu DJ set. Also in attendance were Paula Abdul and her boyfriend.

Rapper Lil Jon was spotted at the Perry South Beach on Monday. He was seen poolside, conducting business on his laptop and enjoying margaritas.

Rafael Nadal was seen Monday at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami where he is staying in the Presidential Suite. Rumor has it the hotel even has his favorite meal on the menu, Rafa Pasta, linguini and shrimp. Also on Thursday, world #5 ranked tennis player David Ferrer and world #10 ranked tennis player Janko Tipsarevic, also staying at the hotel, will conduct a private tennis clinic with kids from Miami Children’s hospital.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Vince Young was spotted at STK Miami last Tuesday night, enjoying the off season with his girlfriend and a group of 10 friends.

Chef David McMillan of Montreal’s Joe Beef visited Eating House over the weekend. McMillan is a fan of Eating House’s chef/owner, Chopped champion, Giorgio Rapicavoli. 

Paula Abdul was spotted at SUSHISAMBA Dromo last Tuesday, she stopped by with a group of friends and tried some new sushi rolls.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

24 Hour Pet Adoption Match-A-Thon 

On Friday, March 30, join the Humane Society of Greater Miami, Miami-Dade Animal Services and The Cat Network, Inc., together with several local rescue groups for the very first 24 hour adopt-a-pet marathon where hundreds of deserving animals will be available for adoption. Refreshments and entertainment will be provided at the park for all ages.  The around the clock adoption event will begin at 11:59 p.m. at Tropical Park; Adoptions will start at $30. Free parking is available; admission is free. To get involved or for more information about the ASPCA ‘Mega Match-a-thon’ event, please visit www.humanesocietymiami.org, e-mail dani@humanesocietymiami.org or call 305.749.1825.

 Harding Dinner Series at 9517 

Chow Down Grill’s Chef Joshua Marcus, who has perfected his skills at BLT Steak, Timo and China Grill, and John Donovan, owner of the current “it-bar”, Blackbird Ordinary, have created a one-week-only gastronomic extravaganza that will temporarily take over the Surfside space you may know as Chow Down Grill. At the culinary helm is Chef Jeremiah Bullfrog of Gastropod fame, who will be “experimenting” with foods and flavors of the moment including the ubiquitous Beet Composition: black sesame soil, hibiscus gastrique, wood sorrel; Arepa 2012: popcorn milk pudding, queso blanco; and Cancha Duck Pastrami: pumpernickel streusel, mustard seed caviar, Brussels kraut. Serving up 10-20 tempting, thought-provoking dishes, guests can expect to see anything from green tomato chips to tubes of dough served with Chinese sausage cream. Beginning Friday, March 30, this exclusive “by reservation only” dinner will seat 22 people per seating; two seating per night 5:00 or 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 or 10:00 p.m., ending April 5. For just $79, each guest will have the opportunity to try some of the boldest dishes on the Miami culinary circuit to date, while getting up close and personal with one of the most innovative teams around.And for those who do not make reservations in time – there’s no need to worry, while the chance to partake in the “official” tasting dinner is off the table for now, there will be more than 20 seats made available nightly, where guests can eat from a special ala carte menu. This is just the first of many pop ups to be held here. Be sure to stay tuned for the announcement of future pop-up dining experiences that will a part of the “destined to be unforgettable” Harding Dinner Series at 9517. Visit www.hardingdinnerseries.com to make your reservation, for an up-to-date schedule of events, and more information on local guest chefs. For more information, visit www.hardingdinnerseries.com or contact the Harding Diner Series at 305.674.1674.

Flash Mob America with Timbaland 

On Friday, March 30 at 7:30 PM, Flash Mob America (www.flashmobamerica.com) will make history with Timbaland, other featured celebs, and world renowned Choreographer, Fatima Robinson, with a special flash mob, to be shown on a global outlet that will be seen by at least 100 million people worldwide. The flash mob will take place at a secret location in Miami (Rehearsals same day at 3:00 p.m.; Details to come after signing on. Those who wish to participate can sign up at: http://www.flashmobamerica.com/event-registration/timbalandfatima-robinson-flash-mob/.

The Ludus Athletics Model Beach Volleyball Tournament 

This weekend join Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookie of the Year 2012 Nina Agdal for the 3rd Annual Ludus Athletics Model Beach Volleyball Tournament on Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1 on 11th and Ocean Drive. The event is open to the public where all of the top modeling agencies will form co-ed teams and compete in this amazing 2-day tournament. This year the tournament has partnered up with the National Volleyball League and their Olympic gold-medal Volleyball athletes will participate in the event by coaching each of these agency teams. Champions, Olympic US qualifiers and number four-ranked team in the world April Ross and Jennifer Kessy will be present at the event as two of the ten pro coaches representing the NVL. Proceeds from the event will benefit Models4Water. Finalists & winners will receive an all expense weekend getaway to the luxurious Bimini Bay Resort and Marina. Here, four teams will compete in a rematch at the resort’s grand opening of Therapy Beach Club, on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world; for more information on the event visit www.modelbeachvolleyball.com. 

The 5th Annual Nautica South Beach Triathlon 

On Sunday, April 1, celebrities, professional athletes, and corporate teams will meet on the sunny shores of South Beach for the 5th Annual Nautica South Beach Triathlon. The highly anticipated race expects to draw more participants than ever as 3,000 participants from over 21 countries will be joining the fierce competition.  The Nautica South Beach Triathlon benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and a portion of the proceeds goes directly to pediatric cancer research.  Last year, the event raised $275,000 for St. Jude and organizers of the Nautica South Beach Triathlon, the sister event to the popular Nautica Malibu Triathlon, are expecting to raise more than last year and already the sign-up and registration numbers have exceeded 2011’s figures. Confirmed celebs participating this year include: Carolina Panther’s running back DeAngelo Williams, Burn Notice’s Jeffrey Donovan, The Today Show’s Natalie Morales, X-Men’s James Marsden, The Office’s Paul Lieberstein, Cougartown’s Josh Hopkins, Pirates of the Caribbean’s Greg Ellis, Traffic Light’s David Denman, and The Finder’s Geoff Stults and Mercedes Masohn, Josie Loren, star of ABC Family’s Make It or Break It, and Jake T. Austin, star of the Emmy winning, Wizards of Waverly Place  and the upcoming Huckleberry Finn.  In addition, pop/R&B singer-songwriter and actress, JoJo, will sing the national anthem; for more information on the triathlon visit www.nauticasobetri.com.

 Trina Turk Luncheon on Gilt Miami 

Gilt’s local curators have put together an all-star line-up of their Miami favorites in dining, beauty, fitness, and fashion as a reflection of member’s top picks. First up this is a Gilt City exclusive event, tickets to the Trina Turk Luncheon and Colores del Verano New Collection Preview Trunk Show Shopping Event on Thursday, April 5 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. The $50 event ticket includes a three-course meal, glass of champagne, non-alcoholic beverages, informal modeling collection and overview and meet-and-greet from Tina herself. Ticket sales are available on Gilt City Miami: http://www.giltcity.com/miami/trinaturkluncheon. 

Cecconi’s  Sunday Brunch

Cecconi’s Miami Beach presents the launch of “Sunday Feast,” the first-ever brunch series at the intimate outdoor restaurant nestled on the ground floor of Soho Beach House beginning at 11:00 a.m. The brunch series will feature an extensive buffet designed by Executive Chef Sergio Sigala and Pastry Chef Oscar Bonelli, along with live music. The indulgent buffet-style spread is comprised of five staple categories featuring new options and older favorites, including an Egg Station, omelet or scrambled, made to order with bacon, avocado and additional accompaniments; Sweets Station, waffles and ricotta pancakes, pastries and fresh-baked croissants, and homemade torta; Raw Bar, oysters, salmon tartar, shrimp and fish salad; Carving Station, complete with roasted beef and pork, quinoa salad, meatballs and macaroni and cheese; and a traditional Cold Cuts spread. The $35* feast includes one complimentary Bellini, or a glass of orange or grapefruit juice. A full a-la-carte cocktail menu is available, as well as tableside Bloody Mary cocktails handcrafted by Cecconi’s mixologists via a roving cart. Reservations are encouraged at 786.507.7902 or miami@cecconisrestaurant.com *Tax and gratuity are additional. The cost includes 50% off valet parking.  

The 18^th annual Bali Ha’i Party 

The 18^th annual Bali Ha’i Party – presented by Grove Village On Grand and Whole Foods Market – will take place Sunday, April 1, 2012, from 5 to 8 p.m. South Florida’s favorite garden party/food & wine fundraiser is held at The Kampong, an exotic botanical oasis in Coconut Grove that offers the perfect setting for the event, which features exquisite wines, champagnes and exotic libations along with tempting culinary samplings from 30 top South Florida restaurants. In addition, a cornucopia of luxurious auction items will be available for bidding by event participants. And for 2012, event producers are thrilled to announce Stephanie Sayfie-Aagaard, social writer for The Miami Herald’s Steph Sez column will be guest emcee. VIP tickets are $250.00 per person and include VIP Lu`au Party at the Point from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. and the Main Event from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. VIP Platinum Tickets for $300.00 include the Main Event and Lu`au Party at the Point plus the Tiki Lounge Party at the Point at 8:00 p.m. Main Event tickets, $150.00 per person ($175.00 per person the day of the event), include main event from 5 to 8 p.m. VIP ticket sales – limited to 250 guests – and VIP Platinum ticket sales – limited to 50 guests – are not available the day of the event. 70% of the cost of tickets is a tax deductible contribution. Complimentary parking with shuttle service for event guests will be provided at Plymouth Congregational Church; for more information visit www.balihaiparty.com.

Paul James, Marco Selva, Diane Kruger and Frits van Paasschen

By:  Mary Jo Almeida- Shore

Nothing says “We’ve arrived!” like a lavish, celeb-studded, gala opening bash for several hundred of Miami’s finest – especially when you throw in miles of decadent gourmet food, a live full-piece orchestra, champagne sabering, ten-minute fireworks display, and late night dance party.   Such was the case on Saturday night for the glitzy grand opening of the Yabu Pushelberg designed St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, “the most anticipated hotel opening of 2012” according to Forbes magazine.  Touted as a
“peerless” (as in 24 hour butler service) “haven” (as in 1,000 feet of pristine beach) the resort’s opening bash heralded its debut in grandiose style.  Upon arrival, the chic guests admired the hotel’s posh lobby and bar area and followed the “yellow lit road” to a 1,000 foot seaside wonderland lined with food, cocktails, live music and fabulous people. All along the way- about every foot or so, there was a St. Regis staff member to greet and welcome guests to the property- who needs daily affirmations with that kind of love around?  Read the rest here »

By: Maryanne Salvat

RA Sushi Spring Luau Party

Throw on a Hawaiian print shirt and a lei and hula on over to RA Sushi in South Miami on March 22 from 8:00 p.m. to close for a Spring Luau Party. Sail away to an island paradise with beach themed décor, tropical food and drink specials, and a guest D.J. who will keep the tiki torches burning all night long. Enjoy a taste of the good life with RA’s Spring Luau Party specials. Try the Tropical Roll with cucumber, mango, and avocado, rolled and topped with spinach tempura bits, and spicy shrimp mixed with masago and mango salsa ($8). Munch on Pineapple Cheese Wontons, lightly fried wontons filled with cream cheese, scallions and pineapple, served with a roasted pineapple dipping sauce ($7). Savor the Spicy Pineapple Chicken, a mixture of ramen noodles, chicken, green and red bell peppers, onion, and a spicy chili sesame sauce, topped with black sesame seeds ($8). All of the Spring Luau Party cocktails are $8 each. Swim in to RA Sushi in South Miami afor some sun and fun. For more information, visit www.RAsushi.com.

Fairchild’s GardenMusic

Come and experience Fairchild’s GardenMusic Festival starting on Sunday, March 25. GardenMusic will bring the highest-quality and most exciting chamber music to South Florida by creating a powerfully immersive experience. By connecting music with the idyllic setting of Fairchild, musicians and other artistic disciplines will foster a collaborative and creative spirit and provide engaging and stimulating educational opportunities. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet and engage with the musicians, experiencing music on an intimate and personal level. In addition, a series of concerts will allow for a more traditional chamber music experience surrounded by the beauty of Fairchild.  Members: Tent seating, general admission, $25; Subscription to all four concerts, $75; Concert for Kids, free; non-members: Tent seating, general admission, $40; Subscription to all four concerts, $120; Concert for Kids, $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up and $12 for children 6-17. Children 5 and under are free. Tickets at 305.667.1651, ext. 3358 or www.fairchildgarden.org/GardenMusic.
The Barton G. Kids Hear Now Foundation: Party Over Hear!

On Friday, March 30, join the Kids Hear Now Foundation for the first ever “Party Over Hear!” celebration. Hosted by the legendary DJ Irie, guests will enjoy complementary bites and spirits courtesy of the master chefs and mixologists at Barton G. The event runs from 9:00 p.m. to midnight at the exclusive Villa By Barton G. Tickets are $175 for general admission and $500 for VIP, which includes a sit-down dinner, exclusive access to the VIP lounge and special surprises throughout the evening. Tickets can be purchased online at www.kidshearnow.org.

Miami Children’s Museum 2012 Be A Kid Again Gala 

On Saturday, March 31at 6:30 p.m., the Miami Children’s Museum (MCM), will host its much anticipated 2012 Be A Kid Again Gala. This year’s 60s inspired theme, “All you need is love” will celebrate exceptional educational programming and showcase a far out live auction hosted by Dave Barry and Paul Castronovo. The night will also feature a one of a kind Silent Auction with a special Wine Auction chaired by Beverly and Bill Parker. Guests will groove the night away to a spectacular multimedia stage production by The Fab Four that will transport them back in time with iconic Beatles tunes. This year’s Be a Kid Again Gala will pay tribute to and honor renowned local artist, Romero Britto. MCM will honor Britto for his longstanding commitment and dedication to the Museum and to the children of South Florida.  All proceeds will benefit the Museum’s educational programming. For more information, contact Sarah Smith at 305.373.KIDS (5437), ext. 142 or ssmith@miamichildrensmuseum.org

 By: Maryanne Salvat 

Music Loves Fashion 

Man+Machine Presents MUSIC LOVES FASHION, the inaugural four-day showcase of international sounds from the underground and producer symposiums, taking place between 11:00am and 11:00pm each day from Wednesday, March 21st to Saturday, March 24th at The Raleigh hotel, sponsored by Belvedere Vodka and MOET. The week kicks-off on Wednesday, March 21 at 11:00am with the I ¤ AVICII Pool Party in association with At Night, ULTRA Pool and Ash Alliance, featuring an opening set by CAZZETTE AND FRIENDS, followed by hours of blissful tunes by the Swede himself; The Owsla Miami poolside party on Thursday, March 22, starting at 11:00am and presented by No Sugar Added, features the emerging electronic visionary and highly acclaimed Grammy Winner, SKRILLEX, amongst other supporting acts. Tickets are priced from $49.95 to $100 for general admission, with beds or tables starting at $3,000 (6 guests) and cabanas starting at $10,000 (20 guests) each served with magnums of Belvedere and Moet; for a complete schedule and more information visit www.musiclovesfashion.com .

Mondrian South Beach Line Up 

Mondrian South Beach hosts the finest 2012 line up the bay side has yet to see. Poolside partying will be open to the public beginning at noon, Saturday, March 24 and Sunday, March 25 with special performances by Mario Fischetti and Leo Janerio. Ending the week with a high note, Mondrian will feature a special pool party hosted by Michael Capponi and Michael Martin including sounds by Marc Sacheli and JP Rigaud.  Note: All events open to public and entrance is based on doormen discretion; cover charge for entry. For table reservations and for more information call 305.514.1940. 

Shore Club

Shore Club brings the best beats to South Beach, announcing a jam‐packed lineup for Winter Music Conference 2012 presented by Oversea Production USA. Top DJs from around the world will keep the party going day and night, indoors and out. For table reservations please call 786.276.6772; Events are open to hotel guests, VIP cardholders and table reservations only Monday through Saturday. Sundays are open to the public (doorman discretion) with a cover charge of $20.

 Chalk Ping Pong and Billiards Lounge

Chalk Ping Pong and Billiards Lounge, along with SuperMarket Creative and Nightdrive Miami, is proud to present its lineup of musical talent for Miami Music Week 2012. A slew of renowned and emerging DJs will take the helm at Chalk, the ultimate adult playground, to showcase the venue’s state-of-the-art audio and new music platform during the weeklong celebration of electronic and alternative music. For a complete line-up, schedule, and tickets visit www.Chalkmiami.com or contact info@chalkmiami.com.

Haven Gastrolounge

Executive Chef Todd Erickson and Haven Gastrolounge will be hosting a grand amount of WMC activities throughout the month of March; for a complete line-up of events visit www.Havenlounge.com. 

The Perry South Beach

The Rooftop at the Perry will be celebrating WMC with an exclusive list of DJ’s spinning all day long; for a complete line up visit www.RXpoolparties.com.

 High Bar at Dream Hotel

Dim Mak pool party, Obey the Kitty Miami Edition, presents secret unannounced guests along with Sidney Samson, Rehab, Joachim Garraud, Felix Cartal, Junior Sanchez, & more.Tickets can be purchased via www.wantickets.com & www.miamidreamsessions.com. 

Art of Night: The DJ Series

Hennessy Black is thrilled to present visionary nightlife photographer Seth Browarnik in Art of Night: The DJ Series, his newest exhibit paying tribute to nightlife’s key players – the DJs. Hennessy Black and Browarnik, who has been capturing DJs since the inception of his career, will pay tribute to those he has photographed and befriended since electronic music began making its mark on nightlife. On display at the Shelborne South Beach, the Hennessy Black Gallery will showcase Seth’s pulsating photography and the artistry of the DJ during the week of Miami’s famous music gatherings, Winter Music Conference and Ultra Music Festival. Beginning March 22 and continuing through March 25, the first-ever exhibit will have a three daylong display at the Hennessy Black Gallery inside of the recently renovated Shelborne South Beach Resort, where collectors will have the opportunity to purchase any of the 25 prints.  Browarnik has partnered with Gen Art and electrostub.com to donate a portion of the proceeds of the exhibit to help market and launch the career of Felix Cartal, an emerging DJ releasing his new album, Different Faces, out March 27. As day turns into evening, each night of the exhibit, the Hennessy Black Gallery will transform into an exclusive VIP lounge for approximately 250 guests, including Browarnik’s celebrity companions and some of the DJs featured.