Make-A-Wish- Let Your Imagination Run Wild

The most highly anticipated event of the social season, the Annual InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball takes place on Saturday, November 6, at the InterContinental Miami. Expect over-the-top décor at this Asian-inspired, Zen-themed ball, where past years have included a fantasy land reminiscent of the Beatles’ hit songs-complete with an “Octopus’ Garden,” enchanted forests with talking trees and tables; a model pouring champagne from a chandelier; an entrance through the 50 foot skirt of an opera singer and at least a few gorgeous people dangling from the ceiling.  And that’s just the beginning.  This ball’s got major star power.  This year’s live auction emcee, Paula Abdul, is up against a long line of previous bombshells including Sharon Stone, Kim Kardashian and Pamela Anderson. The party starts with a lavish cocktail, and by “lavish” we’re talking stone crabs featuring an auction of premier items before moving onto dinner, with background music by DJ Irie and live-auction bidding on items such as exotic wheels, (think Ferraris and Aston Martins); glittering jewels; and international travel to the some of the world’s premier destinations. After the auction, guests will be entertained by a live performance.  For the third year in a row, the InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Nightclub “Enter the Dragon” will celebrate and support the Ball’s endeavors as well as introduce the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida to the next generation of contributors. “The InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Nightclub has been instrumental in raising awareness of the Ball and its mission to an entirely new group — a generation we hope will one day be our new lifetime benefactors and ultimately continue the power of the wish,” said Gala Chairman Malnik. Reservations for the After Party can be made at 305-695-4410 or RSVP@CAPPONIGROUP.COM.

Individual tickets cost $500 each and tables range from $5,000-$20,000. Tables, wishes and other sponsorship opportunities can be purchased by calling 954.967.9474.

Celebrity Waiter Event at Morton’s

Morton’s The Steakhouse Miami Beach and Miami Dolphins players, Karlos Dansby, Vontae Davis and Ronnie Brown, along with additional celebrity friends, as they trade in their helmets and uniforms for plates and aprons and serve a lavish dinner to their guests on Monday, November 8^th beginning at 6:00 p.m.  Enjoy four courses of Morton’s signature cuisine and fine wines from a choice of favorites such as Tuna Tartare Canapes; Miniature Crab Cakes; Double Cut Filet Mignon accompanied with Mashed Potatoes and Steamed Fresh Jumbo Asparagus; and of course, irresistible desserts including New York Cheesecake, Double Chocolate Mousse and Fresh Seasonal Berries with Sabayon Sauce. The evening will include both a live and silent auction with proceeds benefiting the Pros for Africa Foundation. Tickets are available at $250 per guest. Complimentary valet parking will be provided. Morton’s The Steakhouse Miami Beach 4041 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33140. For more information or to purchase tickets,  contact Michelle Guerrin 786-454-4022 / Michelle_Guerrin@mortons.com.

JW Marriott Marquis’ Groundbreaking

The JW Marriott Marquis Miami, the latest and most luxurious hotel in Downtown Miami opens its doors with a private party on Thursday, November 4^th. New York Yankee, Alex Rodriguez (A-Rod) along with A-list celebrities, Brooke Shields, Angie Harmon and Anna Kournikova will celebrate the grand opening of the world’s first JW Marriott Marquis The evening’s festivities will kick-off with an exclusive cocktail reception in Daniel Boulud’s db Bistro Moderne with cocktails courtesy of Grey Goose vodka and will continue onto the hotel’s 19^th floor entertainment/lifestyle complex. Guests will be treated to a celebrity basketball exhibition refereed by Miami HEAT player hall-of-famer, Tim Hardaway and LEBO Live, a multimedia live painting performance by renowned local artist, David LeBatard, and music by DJ Irie.  Thursday’s party is private, but be sure to check out all of the hotel’s offerings over the weekend.

Meet the Pliners

On Saturday, November 6^th, renowned designers and leaders in the footwear and accessories industry, Donald J Pliner and wife Lisa Pliner will present their Fall Footwear Collection at a reception to benefit the Children’s Home Society of Florida. Continuing to impress men and women with their innovative designs, high style and unprecedented comfort, Donald and Lisa offer trends for a fashionable season and give back to the Florida community.  Shop the Donald J Pliner and Lisa for Donald J Pliner Fall Collection of men’s and women’s footwear at a special reception, with Hor D’oeuvres provided by Prime Italian. 10% of all proceeds will benefit the Children’s Home Society of Florida, a charity that empowers families to safely care and provide for children strengthening youth throughout the state.  The event will take place at Village of Merrick Park, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.  For more information contact Marisa Zelnick at marisa.zelnick@donaldpliner.com.

Last Friday, Burn Notice star, Jeffrey Donovan, was spotted working his guns, no pun intended, at Equinox Fitness Club South Beach.  Onlookers were impressed with Donovan’s dedicated work- out routine:  arms, chest, abs, oooh aaah!  On Tuesday, Donovan hit up Picnic for a breakfast burrito. Looks like it’s back to the gym.

Alex Rodriguez was spotted on Monday hitting the South Beach destination.  The New York Yankee worked off his South Beach weekend with an 80 minute cardio routine. 

Celebrity fashion stylist,   Rachel Zoe, and her husband Rodger Berman had dinner at    Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar in Boca Raton on Saturday night.  

Miami’s hottest couple: Heat star Dwyane Wade and actress Gabrielle Union enjoyed an intimate dinner at Café Prima Pasta on Sunday.  The regulars told sources that Café Prima Pasta is their favorite restaurant.   

A well-dressed Terrell Owens dined at Miss Yip Chinese Café Lincoln Road on Thursday night.  The NFL player enjoyed a spicy Mongolian Beef along with a few other Miss Yip favorites and of course, more spicy sauce.

Miami Heat’s James Jones kicked off Kitchen 305’s weekly all-you-can-eat-stone crab season and celebrated his birthday last Friday night at the Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort.  The Spam Allstars performed during the party.

By: Maryanne Salvat

ONE Bal Harbour Weekly Wine Tasting

On Thursday, October 28^th,   ONE Bal Harbour Resort & Spa continues their weekly wine tasting series, highlighting the flavors of the William Hill Estate in Southern Napa Valley.  After the tasting, guests can dine at ONE Kitchen & Bar and enjoy a 25% discount on signature dishes from the region.  Complimentary valet will be provided.  For more information go to www.OneLuxuryHotels.com  or call 305-455-5400. 

Sloane Square Barbers & Shoppe

On Thursday, October 28^th, Sloane Square Barbers & Shoppe celebrates its official grand opening.  Miami’s only modern gentlemen’s sanctuary opens its doors and invites guests to enjoy complimentary cocktails by Grey Goose, Shipyard Brewery, E Wine Boutique and small bites by Picnic.  Sloane Square Barbers & Shoppe is taking residence in the former Carr’s of South Beach space, founder Todd Goldenfarb is excited to announce the opening of his flagship store at 1322 Alton Road. The event runs from 6:30 to 9pm. Gift bags with men’s luxury grooming products will be provided. The official celebration will continue later that evening at Wall at the W South Beach Hotel.  To  RSVP or for more information go to rsvp@cm-publicrelations.com.

King James Hosts Mansion

Basketballs have been bouncing across VIPs doorsteps bearing the MANSION logo and revealing that Lebron James will be hosting his “Trilogy A-List” party at Mansion on Friday, October 29^th after The Heat’s first home game.  DJ Irie will be spinning the soundtrack to the evening, and celebrity guests will be expected at the event.

Special Halloween Screening: “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”

On Saturday, October 30^th the Gusman Center for the Perfoming Arts will be showing a special screening of the favored classic “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”.  This spectacular Halloween evening features complimentary cocktails starting at 8 p.m. courtesy of Grand Marnier & Belvedere IX.  Take home a keepsake photo taken in the themed photo booth by nightlife photographer Jipsy (NefariousGirl).

Before the movie starts at 9 p.m. grab your complimentary goody bag and prepare to take part in the Virgin Sacrifice of Rocky Horror first-timers! Audience participation will be led by a troupe of actors. After the screening, guests will receive free admission to the official after party at Grand Central nightclub, 697 N. Miami Avenue, where Poplife will present a live performance by the New York-based group Eclectic Method.

Proceeds will benefit the theater.  For more information or to purchase tickets go to www.gusmancenter.org.

Gatsby Gone Goth

On Saturday, October 30^th, join Michelle Leshem, Jose Ortiz, Danny Santiago, Lolo Reskin, Anthony Spinello, Nick D’Annunzio, Jipsy and David Glass for the Halloween bash of the year, Gatsby Gone Goth: a dark and gothic homage to the king of the roaring 20’s, the Great Gatsby.   The festivities begin at 9 p.m. at the Raleigh Hotel.  For tickets and more information, go to www.gatsbygonegoth.com.

Cafeina presents: Nightmare on 23^rd Street

On Saturday, October 30, at 8 p.m., Cafeina will transform its interior lounge/art gallery and outdoor garden into the setting of its “Nightmare on 23^rd Street” Halloween soirée. Inspired by Wes Craven’s iconic thriller series Nightmare on Elm Street, the event will feature Miss Elaine Lancaster as DJ and emcee of a costume contest that offers one lucky winner paid airfare to New Orleans for Mardi Gras 2011. Southern Comfort will also be on-site to pass out complimentary shots to party goers (queued by the Nightmare on Elm Street theme song “1, 2, Freddy’s Coming for You”) throughout the evening. Cafeina employees will be dressed in Freddy Krueger-inspired attire; a fog laden outdoor garden will provide a spooky setting and there will be 2 for $275.00 bottle specials on Grey Goose vodka.  Admission is complimentary.  Advance table reservations are available by contacting info@cafeinamiami.com

Spooktacular Weekend on Lincoln Road

The Lincoln Road Association is hosting a wealth of exciting events sure to please all ages during its 2010 Halloween Weekend Extravaganza.  For a complete listing of the activities that will be held on Lincoln Road this weekend go to www.gohrmc.com/HalloweenonLincoln.com.

The Reel Horror Ball

On Sunday, October 31^st, join the Gansevoort Miami Beach as it presents The Reel Horror Ball.  This sinful event begins at 8 p.m. with a 1920’s Prohibition-Era Themed Dinner Party at STK and continues with an after party at Coco DeVille.    The cost for both events is $20.  Proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Florida Breast Health Initiative.  For more information go  to www.wantickets.com/reelhorrorball.

Boo-Bash at RA

On Sunday, October 31^st, RA Sushi in South Miami makes the perfect hot spot for ghoulish tricks and treats during the Boo-Bash Halloween edition of the restaurant’s already popular Sunday night “Flying Fish Lounge.”  The freakish fun starts at 8 p.m. with music, a variety of half-priced sushi and appetizers, plus great drink specials topped off with a “Best Costume” contest awarding the winner with a $100 RA gift certificate.

Kick Off for a Wild Brunch

On Monday, November 1^st, join Morton’s The Steakhouse Miami Beach and the Humane Society of Greater Miami for a kick- off event celebrating the 14^th Annual Brunch for the Animals.   To RSVP and for more information contact Laurie Hoffman at 305.749.1815.

Great Voices Unite

On Thursday, November 4^th, in celebration of the upcoming Sounding Off For A Cure Concert on February 10^th, Voices Against Brain Cancer will toast to the launch of the Florida Chapter with a special cocktail at D Rodriguez Cuba in The Hotel Astor featuring the sounds of Conjunto Progreso.    The event will begin at 7 p.m. and will include special appearances by  Mario Lichtenstein, Founder of Voices Against Brain Cancer; Chef Douglas Rodriguez , Charity Ambassadors: Alan and Diane Lieberman, Aleco & Carolina Azequet, Alexia and Herman Echevarria, Alfredo and Elizabeth Beracasa, Andrew & Shari Menachem, Belkys Nerey, Brandon and Giovanna Lieb, Brian Elias, Carlos Betancourt, the Cervera Family, Diego and Gisela Lowenstein, Frank Amadeo, Ingrid Casares, Kamal Hotchandani, Leslie Munsell, Louis Aguirre, Luis Garcia Fanjul, Lynn Martinez, Maria Celeste Arraras, Mari Alarcon-Grimalt), Norma Quintero, Oscar and Carole Seikaly, Rik and Raquel Watters, and Yolanda and Jeff Berkowitz. D Rodriguez Cuba is located at the Hotel Astor 956 Washington Avenue.  For more information contact Lauren Gnazzo at Lauren@ThePattonGroupInc.com.

Chef Douglas Rodriguez celebrated the opening of his eponymous restaurant on Friday night, with more than 600 guests in attendance, delighted to get their first taste of Chef Rodriguez’s Nuevo Latino cuisine and a glimpse of the many surprises the restaurant has in store.

The party featured a sampling of the bold flavors prevalent in Chef Rodriguez’s signature ceviches, extensive raw bar, and sustainable seafood options. When asked about the menu offerings, Chef Rodriguez explained, “If I can find purveyors who ensure the products we get are responsibly grown, fished, picked, and so on, then I can feel good about the food on the plate and so can my guests.”

The night was filled with Latin flavor, a sprinkling of local celebs and a bit of eye candy. Former Heat player Ricky Davis, reality star, Ariel Stein, and Hip Hop artist Noel Osborne joined models from various agencies for the celebration, including Liliana Gomez.  Embracing the vibrancy of the elite South of Fifth neighborhood, the party continued into the late hours of the night.  De Rodriguez Ocean will host a lineup of special nights in the coming weeks and months.    “With De Rodriguez Ocean we’re offering an incredible experience – a trifecta of food, drink and entertainment” explained Director of Operations, Luke L’Heureux.

By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore and Maryanne Salvat

Best Buddies South Florida

On Thursday, October 21 join Best Buddies Florida and South Florida VIPs at the Westin Diplomat at 7p.m. and be the first to view 2010 fall fashions at the “All in Good Taste” evening presented by The Arthur E. Benjamin Foundation.  Hors d’oeuvres by Aizia, cocktails courtesy of GREY GOOSE Vodka, live painting by David Benegas, and a preview of Audi’s newly unveiled A8 sedan will be some of the evening’s highlights. Guests will also enjoy a fashion show presented by A Nose for Clothes under the direction of Jeffery Lubin Group.  Tickets are avilalbe for $30 at www.BestBuddiesflorida.org/allingoodtaste.  

Key to the Cure

Join Saks Fifth Avenue Dadeland (7687 North Kendall Drive) for Key to the Cure, a charity shopping weekend event to help raise money and awareness for women’s cancers from Thursday, October 21 through Sunday, October 24. The kick off cocktail event will be held Thursday, October 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. featuring Capital Grille hors d’oeuvres and live entertainment. A percentage of the weekend sales will go towards Baptist Breast Center. For more information or to RSVP, call 305.662.8655, ext 262 or email rsvpdadeland@s5a.com.  

Head to the Bay

New North Beach restaurant and gay-friendly nightclub, The Bay debuts on October 22 with a private cocktail reception at 8 p.m. featuring sounds by DJ of-the-moment DJ Troy Kurtz, gratis cocktails and hors d’oeuvres by one of our favorite chefs, Guily Booth. The 26,000 square-foot-foot waterfront venue by industry veterans Patrick Reilly and George Figares aims to bring excitement back to the Causeway. (Read: Tea parties, drag queen Twister and “Studio Filthy Whore” bashes). RSVP is required to thebay@taraink.com for private reception. Doors open to the public on October 23.

A Night on the Riviera

On Friday, October 22, Gilda’s Club of South Florida will be hosting its annual charity gala, “A Night on the Riviera” at Ferrari-Maserati of Fort Lauderdale.   This year’s event will feature a fabulous array of French inspired cuisine and fine wine tastings along with dancing and red carpet arrivals.  Gilda’s club is a unique organization that provides support for individuals living with cancer and their families.   All proceeds from the evening benefit Gilda’s Club South Florida. Tickets are available for $125 per person.  For more information contact   Shelley Goren at (954) 763-6776 ext. 205 or by email at Samantha@gildasclubsouthflorida.org or visit: www.gildasclubsouthflorida.org<http://www.gildasclubsouthflorida.org.

ArtCenter

 On Saturday, October 23,   join the ArtCenter/South Florida for an opening reception from 7 to 10 p.m. celebrating this year’s newest editions.  This yearly showcases the works of the ArtCenter’s Artist in Residence Program students who have successfully completed their first year.  This year’s show will feature artists Anthony Ardavin, Andre Allen, Alfonso Corona, Beatricia Sagar, Jaime Gil Laffan, Wendy Coad, Matu Croney, Shady Eshghi, and others who joined the full term residency program in 2009.   The ArtCenter/South Florida is located on 800 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach.

  Getting Your Groove On

This weekend Brotherly Love Productions presents three distinctive nights of music:   Friday, October 22 Deerfield’s alternative roots-reggae rockers, The Resolvers, visit Miami’s Transit Lounge for an evening of classic big-band reggae sound blended with modern song craftsmanship, creating an original take on world music.  On Saturday, October 23, Diocious makes a triumphant return to the Funky Buddha Lounge with their psychedelic funk-rock sound. Rounding out the weekend on October  24 is the BLP Sunday Night Cookout , with California’s Mystic Roots Band – a high-energy show.

Funkshion

Ladies in Red

On Thursday, October 21, the American Heart Association presents the Red Dress Campaign show.  The Go Red For Women Event will take place at the Bass Museum at 8 p.m., showcasing designs including Nicole Miller, Marc Jacobs and various other designers. All proceeds from the show and ticket sales will benefit the American Heart Association   To support this wonderful cause and purchase tickets go to www.funkshion.com.

Shop Miami Beach

 From Saturday, October 23 through Sunday, October 24 the Bass Museum presents Shop Miami Beach, an assortment of selected vendors ranging from couture pieces to affordable chic.  This international design scene will run from noon to 6 p.m.  Bass  Museum  2121 Park Avenue, Miami Beach, for details go to : www.funkshion.com . 

 Hope Shines:  Juwan Howard Foundation

On Saturday, October 23,   the   Juwan Howard Foundation will be presenting a children’s fashion show at the Bass Museum in Miami Beach from 5 to 8 p.m.  The Juwan Howard Foundation was created to assist inner city children, providing them with goals for a better future and assistance for a better education.  For tickets go to www.funkshion.com.

Symphony After Hours at The Standard

 On Saturday, October 23 join Friends of the New World Symphony at The Standard following the Symphony concert at Lincoln Theatre from 9 p.m. to midnight to mix and mingle and sip on cocktails courtesy of Grey Goose vodka.  The event is free for NWS members and cost $40 for non-members.

 Favela Chic  comes to WALL

WALL Lounge is the new home to the beloved “Favela Chic” (henceforth known as Favela Beach) parties on Tuesday nights.  The legendary fete brings its Brazilian glamour and samba inspired beats every Tuesday night starting next week. On Thursday, October 21, celebrate the one-year anniversary of Thursday nights at WALL with your favorite hosts Michael Capponi, Karim Masri, Nicola Siervo, Rony Seikaly, Navin Chatani and Michael Martin.  The evening will feature a very special and exclusive performance by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes.  On Friday, October 22 celebrate GREY GOOSE Entertainment’s Rising Icon, Asher Roth, who will perform live. 

Playwrights Unite!

On Wednesday, October 27 join The Playwright Irish Pub & Restaurant as it celebrates its 10^th anniversary.  This South Beach establishment will offer open bar from 8 to 10 p.m., 80’s and 90’s music furnished by Dj Robb Riggs, and live performances. 

Little Lighthouse Halloween

Little Lighthouse Foundation will host the “Nightmare on Lincoln Road” Halloween party on Saturday, Oct 30 at 1111 Lincoln Road (7^th Floor of the Parking Garage). The party begins with a VIP reception at 8:00 pm featuring with a signature Grey Goose cocktails and food from Miami Beach restaurants.    Beneficiaries include children, families, and select child orientated charities throughout south Florida.  Tickets cost $150 per couple before October 24^.  For tickets contact:    jeff@thelittlelighthouse.org  or www.thelittlelighthouse.org.