Last Friday, LeBron James casually dined with a group of eight friends and family at STK Miami Beach.   Over at The Forge Restaurant | Wine Bar award-winning Latin artist Luis Miguel enjoyed a friend’s birthday dinner in the newly decorated private Wine Cellar. The party of six complimented Shareef Malnik on the renovations and wished him a successful upcoming season in Miami Beach.  Miguel was also overheard speaking about his upcoming tour and latest album release.   Luis Miguel was also spotted over the weekend leaving Prime 112 with former girlfriend Daisy Fuentes.

 Last Saturday, Tara Reid was seen at the Rooftop at Gansevoort Miami Beach.  According to our source, the subdued starlet kept to herself amongst the chaos of the VIP area.   Ruff Ryder’s first lady and musical icon, Eve, performed live at Cameo that same evening. The crowd toasted the   performer as she sang her hits Tambourine, Who’s That Girl, and Let Me Blow Your Mind.  Local VIPS such as Chris Jones and Opium Group’s Roman Jones were amongst the crowd enjoying the live concert .  Multiple bottles of Veuve Cliquot  were sent out to the crowd in her honor.

Eve then headed over to the Ice Palace where Hennessy Artistry 2010 hosted a concert with co-curators The Roots and Q-Tip lining up a series of acts.   Special guests Daniel Merriweather, Kat DeLuna, DJ Irie and DJ D-Nice joined The Roots and Q-Tip onstage for a blend of eclectic, unforgettable musical performances.  And just when attendees thought the night was winding down, Eve took the stage along with Bobby Brown as part of this elite five-city hip-hop history tour.

 Other sightings around town: Dolphins football great,  Dan Marino dined  with friends at Stephen Starr’s STEAK 954 at W Fort Lauderdale.  Orlando Magic basketball player JJ Redick enjoyed a relaxing afternoon at Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar in West Palm Beach.

By: Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

Miami definitely had a presence during NYC fashion week this season.  South Beach-based fashion show producers and owners of Funkshion: Fashion Week Miami,(which is scheduled for the week of October 20) Sale Stojanovic and Matt Heien, collaborated to produce and publicize over 13 runway shows in the Big Apple.  From PetitePARADE, the first ever Kids Fashion Week in the USA (www.kidsfashionweek.com) , to Style 360 and the Elle magazine show, to Rajvi Mohan, one of the few men’s shows this season.  The New Delhi designer made quite the splash with her new Men’s Spring Summer 2011 collection presented by New Era. As you may have guessed, (and can see in the photos) it was hard to concentrate on the show or clothes, with all of the gorgeous male models on the runway.

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.

Emilio and Gloria Estefan

By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

LIV opens at Sun Life Stadium For those who love a little nightclub action with their football, or vice versa,

 we have great news! LIV (the mega-nightclub you’ve come to love/hate at the Fontainebleau), has set up shop at Sun Life Stadium and if Sunday’s Dolphins vs. Jets game is any indication, will offer up the same celeb-infused atmosphere you find regularly at the LIV on South Beach.  The 10, 000 square foot space, which accommodates 800 people, was packed to the rafters with South Beach locals and a few New Yorkers, several of whom we suspect went straight from LIV’s Saturday night party to Sunday’s game.

And yes, expect to see oodles of models, and scantily-clad girls dancing on the banquets at the mini-LIV, who along with the multiple bars, DJ booth, dance floors and bottle service are welcome distractions for those who aren’t such ardent football fans.

Read the rest here »

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.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

 While this list is far from exhaustive, celebrities spotted front row to lend their support for their favorite designers included: Milla Jovovich, Sarah Jessica Parker, Leighton Meester, Serena Williams, Ed Westwick, Rashida Jones, Kanye West, Jason Lewis, Kristin Cavallari, Coco Rocha, Rachel Bilson, Ashlee Simpson, Kelly Osbourne, Nicky Hilton, Courtney Love, Kimora, Samantha Ronson, Jay Sean, Amanda Hearst, Robert Verdi, Molly Sims, Omarion, Andy Cohen, Elisa Sednaoui, Deborah Cox, Eric McCormack, Iman, Veronica Webb, Katrina Bowden, Kelly Rowland, Debora Cox, Angela and Vanessa Simmons, Mel B, Solange Knowles, Nastia Lukin, Julia Jones, Rachel Zoe, Claire Danes, Olivia Palermo, Jessica Simpson, Heidi Klum, Tyson Beckford, Perrey Reeves, Poppy Delevingne, Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Michelle Trachtenberg, Carmen Electra, Cassie, Jessica Szohr, Alison Brie, Alexis Bledel, Leigh Lezark, Gabrielle Union, Jordin Sparks, Brandy, Denise Richards, Kelly Bensimon, Melissa George, Lauren Bush, Sarah Wynter, Jay Alexander, Michael Urie, Tessa Thompson, Keisha Wittaker, Diddy, Kendra Wilkinson, Shannon Elizabeth, Kerry Washington, Rebecca Romijn, Greta Gerwig, Marin Ireland, Mickey Sumner, Katie Lee, Nigel Barker, Aisha Taylor, Perry Farrell, Alan Cumming, Jay Manuel, Kristin Chenoweth, Stanley Tucci, Peaches Geldof, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Natalie Morales, Marsha Thomason, Noel Marin, Sherri Baum, Marcia Gay Harden, and Camilla Romestrand..

Celebrity Sightings Miami

The Burn Notice season wrap party took place at The Forge on Wednesday night. Attendees included: Jeffrey Donovan, Gabrielle Anwar, Bruce Campbell and Sharon Gless who celebrated in the newly renovated Library while Dennis Rodman strolled in for a late dinner at the Wine Bar. Saturday night Rick Ross and DJ Khaled enjoyed a business dinner with two other guests and spoke about how they loved The Forge’s new look.

On Thursday night, the members of Kings of Leon dined in the private dining room of Miami hotspot, Zuma with a group of 16 people.

 Eva Longoria recently dined at Sugarcane raw bar grill with a group of about 15 who arrived in 3 limos. Longoria and company sat in the lounge and enjoyed a selection of different tapas from the menu. The hot “Housewife” was in town to kick-off the Rally Against Cancer, which is being co-hosted for the second year in a row by JR and Loren Ridinger and will take place during the weekend of November 12-13 (more on this in an upcoming column).

At La Fee Verte’s Stiletto Mafia party on Saturday, model Ines Rivero was seen with an entourage of dancing queens who could not stop raving about burlesque diva Nicole Soden’s performance. Front Management’s male-model-of-the-moment, Branden Haley celebrated his 21st birthday at the party where he was seen dirty dancing with Bravo reality star, Cristina Rice (who’s been recently spotted with Jamie Foxx).

Also on Saturday, Grey Goose Entertainment Rising Icon Jay Sean performed at the Opium Hard Rock.

Recording artist Drake celebrated his father’s birthday with a group of 6 people at Philippe on Sunday.