Swim Week Edition

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim returns for the sixth year to celebrate all-things steamy, sexy and swim with five days of runway shows.  The annual fashion showcase, which takes over the Raleigh from July 15-19 is the world’s leading swimwear designer platform-and it happens here, in our own backyard.  While the shows at the Raleigh are private, the Gansevoort Miami Beach is taking part in their in the festivities to bring you top-tier designer fashions. Other accessible shows, brought to you by Funkshion, will take place at the Setai. Visit http://funkshion.com/ for more information. To view a recap of last year’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim, click: https://miamisocialholic.com/07/skin/.

Take the Plunge at the Gansevoort

On Friday, designer Christian Audigier, showcases the tattoo-inspired Ed Hardy collection with a pool party from 12 to 4 p.m.  That evening,  Michelle Jonas Travelwear will unveil its Spring 2011 collection as  Perrey Reeves, aka Entourages’ ”Mrs. Ari Gold”, will take the catwalk as the show’s celebrity model .  The show begins at 10:30 p.m.  On Saturday, True Religion Swimwear takes the stage and  hosts  a pool party from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m.  And on Sunday, Miami’s own Lourdes “Luli” Hanimian and brother-in-law Augusto Hanimian, will celebrate the Luli Fama 2011 fashion show after party at Coco de Ville.  All of these events are open to the public, for more information and a complete listing of events contact Jackie Mailhe at Jackie@taraink.com.

Webster Pro Surf Shop

On Thursday, the posh Webster Boutique along with fenom Modern will convert its first floor into a modern day Pro Surf Shop.  The Boutique will debut  hard-chosen pieces from exclusive surf inspired gear, ready-to-wear accessories, art, and boards from many brand name designers (portion of the proceeds benefit the Surfrider Foundation).   The event is from 7pm -9pm, RSVP is required at surf@thewebstermiami.com . 

On Friday, the Webster will present the Matthew Williamson Pop-Up Shop from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. to RSVP and for more information contact:  edison.l@quintessentially.com.

Dog Days of Summer

The Village of Merrick Park (358 San Lorenzo Ave) invites you to Doggy Days of Summer throughout July and August. Bring your pooch to The Garden at the Village of Merrick Park and enjoy special promotions and doggy treats at select retailers and restaurants. Receive a complimentary professional photo of your four-legged friend with a purchase of $25.00 or more. With a $5 donation enter your pooch in the doggy parade and receive a complimentary bandana. All proceeds will benefit the Humane Society of Greater Miami, which will be taking part in the kick-off with an adopt-a-thon on site. The doggy parade will begin at 3:00 pm in The Garden. Prizes will be awarded for top 3 categories: 1. Best attire 2. Best owner/dog look alike 3. Best personality.   Doggy Days will be held on the following dates:  Sunday July 18^th, 25^th and August 1^st from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.  For more information visit: http://www.villageofmerrickpark.com/.

The Dynamic Trio, better known as: Wade, Bosh, and James, were spotted all around Miami, following the spectacular news for the Miami Heat.   Sightings started out on Thursday night at the W Hotel’s Mr. Chow.  Chris Bosh held a private dinner and viewing of LeBron James’ big decision. Guests in attendance included Bosh’s family and friends, Director Michael Bay, Senator Chris Smith, Recording Industry heavy weight Steve Rifkind, and  Congressman Kendrick Meek to name a few.

Fher Olvera

On Friday night, the Trio, accompanied by Udonis Haslem were joined by the Rileys and Arisons, at Prime Hotel & Lounge, Prime 112’s hot, new location on Miami Beach, toasting to the team’s future success with a round of fenom Modern Absinthe. 

Coach Erik Spolstra was also spotted out and about on Friday night at South Miami’s RA Sushi.  Spolstra arrived with a large group and enjoyed a late dinner celebrating the Heat’s newest additions.  James had lunch at Garcia’s seafood restaurant over the weekend. He even took the time to go in the kitchen to thank “Mama Garcia” who had sent over some of her special dishes for James to enjoy.

Fher Olvera, the lead singer from Mana, was at Morena on Saturday night with a group of friends drinking and having a good time well past 3:00 a.m.

Sanford Ziff, Lucie Arnaz, and Harry (K.C.) Wayne Casey

By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

It was the “GOOOOAAAAL!” heard around the world, followed by an “OLE!” that continues to resound in the ears, minds and hearts many Latin-Americans for whom Spain is considered “La Madre Patria.”  The World Cup victory marked the culmination of a month-long celebration of the ethnic diversity so prevalent in Miami.  This week in particular showcased such diversity with the presentation of Babalu at the Adrienne Arsht Center and the opening of the Drexel Irish Pub, located on Espanola Way, which, interestingly opened on Bastille Day! Talk about a “cultural kaleidoscope.”

Babalu: We’re “HOME!”

One of the highlights of the week was  Babalú – A Tribute to the Music of Desi Arnaz, at the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, created by and starring Arnaz’s daughter, Lucie Arnaz; son, Desi Arnaz Jr. and Broadway heavyweights: Raúl Esparza and Valarie Pettiford. Read the rest here »

Kaylen James and Jeffrey Donovan

Arts for Learning celebrated its 10 year anniversary with a swanky soiree at the Sagamore Hotel last Sunday afternoon.  Guests gathered poolside sipping cocktails sponsored by Grey Goose Vodka, as our favorite Burn Notice spy on TV, Jeffery Donovan and model/socialite Malinka Max, played hosts to the artsy crowd.  Attendees included: Merle and Danny Weiss, Gary Farmer, Vicky Di Santo, Miss Orlando 2010, Michael Valdes, James Cubbison of Miami Artzine and Harvey Burstein of Miami Arts Trust.

Donovan addressed the intimate crowd, emphasizing the importance of the arts in children’s   lives, and then went on to explain the effects the arts have had in his own career.   Executive Director for Arts for Learning, Sheila Womble, went on moved the crowd with a short story about acclaimed actor Robert Redford.  She recounted that when Redford was a boy he found it difficult to pay attention and instead, would draw pictures in class. Throughout the third grade, he would illustrate different ideas that came to him.  One day the teacher approached him and asked him to tell the story behind the picture.  The teacher was completely astounded by his creativity and gave Redford the opportunity to draw a picture each week and tell the story behind it.

 Womble went on to explain how important it is for each child to have this same opportunity, and how Arts for Learning grants these life changing moments for students every day.     For more information on the Arts for learning program visit www.Arts4Lmiami.org.

Don’t Pass on The Passing

Calix Gustav gallery will debut its newest exhibit The Passing on Saturday, July 10 from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. with an opening reception and complimentary cocktails for all guests. The reception will take place at the gallery located in the Wynwood Arts District (98 NW 29th Street) and will coincide with the bourgeoning neighborhood’s monthly art walk. Calix Gustav’s The Passing is set to exhibit the fleeting of time, new seasons and new beginnings representing rebirth through the works of Ecuadorian artist, Jovan Karlo Villalba; Colombian artist, Catalina Jaramillo and sculptor Richard Herzog. The Passing will run from July 10 through September 1, 2010. Regular gallery visiting hours are from Tuesday to Saturday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information visit:  www.calixgustav.com.

Shop to Support the Michael J. Fox Foundation

Go shopping at Lilac And Lilies (229 B Commercial Blvd., Lauderdale by the Sea) to support a Fashion Fundraising Night on Wednesday, July 14^th from 6 to 9 p.m. to benefit The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.  You are invited to an evening of shopping, cocktails and catering by Pizza Fusion and to browse the latest collections of their favorite designers including Trina Turk, Black Halo, Rebecca Taylor, BB Dakota, Jay Godfrey, LnA, ZAD and more.  Twenty percent of sales (on non-sale merchandise) will benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which has raised more than $179 million for Parkinson’s treatment research.  This special Lilac and Lilies event is being hosted by Liz Camp in an effort to help her reach fundraising goals for fellow Team Fox runners participating in the New York City Marathon on November 7^th.  For more information, contact:  954.530.3109.

 Summer Groove is Here

The Summer Groove, will take place at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino (1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, Fl.) from July 14-18.  Hosted by Alonzo Mourning and Dwyane Wade, The Groove is a five-day weekend event that features something for everyone: golf, comedy, music, a benefit dinner, youth summit, youth sports conference and basketball clinic.  There’s also a free block party, an all-star basketball game and numerous exclusive functions. Now in its 14th year, proceeds benefit Alonzo Mourning Charities and the Wade’s World Foundation. For more information, visit www.TheSummerGroove.com.

 Love at Lucky Strike

 Get “Lucky in Love“ at Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge‘s Jewish singles dating event on Thursday, July 15, 2010 at 7 pm.  Tickets are on sale now for this fun-filled, action packed mixer at the very cool and hip Lucky Strike. Let loose and get the ball rolling with two free hours of bowling on the JDate-exclusive lanes. Enjoy free shoes, a free drink and great food specials as you mingle and roll the night away.

Evelyn Lozada, Marnie Howard, and Angel Schmiedt

Tucked away in an unsuspecting little strip mall in the quiet, charming North Beach neighborhood is La Fee Verte (French for “the green fairy”) South Florida’s first burlesque/absinthe club.  While the average passerby on his way to one of the many quaint neighboring restaurants would probably not even notice the place, which has only a makeshift sign above the door, those with a palate for racy adventures know exactly where they’re going.

The space is tiny, yet ornate and classy, with bright red couches and banquettes and wall-to-wall paintings depicting erotic (yet tasteful) scenes. Upon entering, what is most striking, aside from the enormous chandelier, are the numerous contraptions, including ropes, scarves, and swing suspended from the ceiling- that signal-almost immediately, that you are in for one heck of a night. The entertainment includes seductive burlesque shows every half hour or so throughout the evening, during which gorgeous, scantily-dressed dancers perform atop/around/within the aforementioned contraptions. Read the rest here »