By: Maryanne Salvat

4^th Annual Miami Underwater Festival at the Frost Museum of Science

Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science invites South Floridians to “dive into” its 4^th Annual Miami Underwater Festival, sponsored by festival founders Shelly and Marko Dimitrijevic, taking place from Thursday, June 11 – Sunday, June 14 with the theme of “Coasts, Reefs and Open Oceans.” The festival is being held in celebration of the global World Oceans Day, in honor of the oceans that link the world together, the products they provide to our daily lives, and to raise awareness of the current challenges faced. Visitors will get a chance to explore some of the themes and topics that will be featured in the Living Core Aquarium at the Museum’s future facility, opening in downtown Miami’s Museum Park in 2016. The Miami Underwater Festival is the Museum’s last signature event at its current location before its move to the new museum. For more information about the 4^th Annual Miami Underwater Festival, visit www.miamisci.org/underwaterfest or call 305.646.4200. Join the conversation! #UnderwaterFest 

HaVen South Beach Turns 4!

Haven South Beach celebrates its 4 year anniversary. The VIP after party will begin at 11:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 11 at HaVen located at 1237 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach.

Neon or Nothing Night Swim at the Thompson Miami Beach

Thompson Miami Beach will be debut its newest summer party “NEON OR NOTHING NIGHT SWIM” this Saturday, June 13 from 9:00 p.m. to midnight.  “KIRILL WAS HERE”—star of Showtime’s new docu-series 3AM and famed photographer and sounds by DJ Scott Melker will set the vibe as guests dance the night away with cocktails in hand. So put on your best neon swim suit or attire and join the fun on Saturday for the ultimate summertime pool party that will be one for the record books.

by: Maryanne Salvat

Luna Farm: Farm to the Table Exclusive Dinner

Chef Jose Garces put together a once in a lifetime Luna Farm dinner as an auction item during the Garces Foundation Gala that will be held on Saturday, June 6. Chef Garces will create a farm to table collaborative dinner prepared by fellow chefs, Rich Landau, Kevin Sbraga, Peter Serpico and Greg Vernick who will cook a private dinner at Jose’s farm with wine pairings.  Tickets are $1500 each and are limited to eight attendees. Chef Eli Kulp was originally planning to join the chefs as one of the collaborators of the dinner, The Garces Foundation will donate the proceeds from the dinner to the Kulp Family Medical Fund. For tickets or more information call 267.284.7905 or visit www.garcesfoundation.org.

The Second Annual Garces Foundation Summer Barbecue 

The Second Annual Garces Foundation Summer Barbecue celebratessummer with a barbecue lunch at Luna Farm in support of the Garces Foundation, the nonprofit organization committed to ensuring that Philadelphia’s underserved immigrant community has access to health and educational services. Guests will enjoy live music, farm tours, and much more on Sunday, June 7, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.; for more information or to purchase tickets visit: call 267.284.7905 or visit www.garcesfoundation.org.

Open Source: Steps and Pyramid

Paine’s Park, Philadelphia’s premiere skatepark will debut the first completed project in Open Source: Steps and Pyramid, two skateable sculptures by British artist Jonathan Monk. Tomorrow night from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., Open Source will be kicking it off with a party at Paine’s Park, featuring food trucks, live music by Chill Moody and DJ Ricochet, and a skate demo with skateboarders from Nocturnal Skateshop. Be sure to RSVP to Philly’s biggest launch party of the summer: https://www.facebook.com/events/829824580398899/. Curated by Pedro Alonzo, Open Source offers a bold redefinition of contemporary art, featuring a roster of world-renowned artists who run the gamut from sculpture to community muralism to street art. Throughout October 2015, the city will come alive with new works by 14 extraordinary artists, all of which will illuminate Philadelphia’s diverse urban identity.

Alex’s Lemonade Stands across the Nation

Alex’s Lemonade Days are held each year during the second weekend of June commemorating the time of year when Alexandra “Alex” Scott held her annual lemonade stand. Her supporters across the country carry on this tradition during Lemonade Days weekend, this year during the weekend of June 12 through June 14, holding thousands of lemonade stands and grassroots events – all dedicated to fighting childhood cancer!  For more information visit: http://www.alexslemonade.org/

Care Resource Offers Children’s Health Month

June is Children’s health month at Care Resource. This month, new pediatric clients without Health Insurance can receive a free comprehensive check-up and sports physical. To redeem this promotion, one must first make an appointment. To make an appointment, one can call 305.576.1234 ext.: 470 (English) and 471 (Spanish). Care Resource is staffed with board certified pediatric staff, is dedicated to developing advances in pediatric / adolescent care, promoting the well-being of children and families, and serving as advocates for children’s health related issues. Services include well child care; pediatric hearing, vision and dental care; immunizations; routine health screenings and adolescent care.

CENA by Michy

James Beard Award-winning Chef Michelle Bernstein and husband/partner David Martinez, have reopened their doors as CENA by Michy with a completely new look, new menu concept and new spirit. Joining Bernstein in the kitchen is chef de cuisine Mikey Mayta, a Michy’s alumnus and Johnson & Wales graduate.  CENA by Michy is located at 6927 Biscayne Boulevard in Miami.  Dinner is served nightly beginning at 6:00 p.m.  Telephone: 305.759.2001; www.cenabymichy.com.

Brendan O’Hara & The Rescue at Ball & Chain

Ball & Chain is thrilled to present the Brendan O’Hara & The Rescue official album release party and live show on Sunday, June 7, at 6:30PM where the Miami-based multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and songwriter will take the Pineapple Stage in the garden debuting songs off his newest album co-produced by Ball & Chain. The event will also feature the funky and star-studded jam band Vlade Divak, who will play live from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. The “Live at The Ball & Chain” album is a compilation of the 10 best tracks recorded live and part of an on-going series co-produced by the taste making, chart-topping venue. The “Live at The Ball & Chain” album will be available for purchase on-site for $10. For additional information about Brendan O’Hara visit www.btotherescue.com; all guests must be 21 and over to attend this event. This is event is free and open to the public. For Table Reservations: info@BallandChainMiami.com.

The Fourth Annual Miami Film Month

Greater Miami and The Beaches continue to be a place of cinematic excellence and unparalleled movie experiences. With the film industry continuing to grow and position itself as one of the destination’s strongest brand pillars, the area has become synonymous with spectacular art cinemas and unique film festivals. To celebrate the big screen’s presence in Miami, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) has partnered with Stella Artois to host the fourth annual Miami Film Month from June 1-30, with a stellar line-up of activities. Miami Film Month gives visitors and residents a front row seat to the destination’s diverse film culture with discounted pricing at participating art cinemas.  This includes $8 movie screenings with a Miami Film Month coupon, available online at the website, www.MiamiFilmMonth.com. 

El Cielo Miami

Brickell’s newest gem El Cielo Miami will open its doors on Thursday, June 11 from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. with a white and gold fete complete with golden carpet. Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos, one of the 50 Best Chefs of Latin America, invites guests to experience his first Miami restaurant where sensory gastronomic experiences are created through a menu inspired by Colombian roots and the study of neuroscience to stimulate the senses. Fine cocktails, live entertainment and stunning views of the Miami River from El Cielo’s outdoor patio dining will delight throughout the evening; RSVP to elCielo@taraink.com is required.

By: Dr. Mary Jo Almeida-Shore

How does a multi-media website that spotlights celebrities and parties throughout the country celebrate five years in business? With an over-the-top, champagne-soaked weekend filled with bashes, celebrities, and fun, of course.

For the momentous occasion, Seth Browarnik, dubbed the “Lensman of South Beach,” invited 500 of his closest friends to a “bash for the books” at South Beach’s most beautiful new hotel, the 1Hotel South Beach on Friday, May 29. As expected, a crowd ten times the size of the invitation list showed up, hoping to gain access to the private event. Those fortunate to be deemed worthy were treated to a night drenched in Moët & Chandon champagne, too many cocktails, music by Miami’s favorite DJ, Irie, spirited conversations and lots of dancing. An innovative photo booth allowed guests to capture and share their favorite party moment. Read the rest here »

The Great Chefs Event benefiting Alex’s Lemonade Stand and The Vetri Foundation

On Tuesday, June 9, The Great Chefs Event hosted by Chef Marc Vetri and Jeff Benjamin, co-founders of the Vetri Family restaurants and the Vetri Foundation for Children brings together more than 40 acclaimed chefs and mixologists from around the globe. Guests sample small plates prepared by each chef in the unique atmosphere of Urban Outfitters headquarters. In 2014, this event was attended by 1,200 guests and raised more than $750,000 for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation & The Vetri Foundation for Children; for tickets visit: http://www.alexslemonade.org/campaign/great-chefs-event.

Alex’s Lemonade Stands across the Nation

Alex’s Lemonade Days are held each year during the second weekend of June commemorating the time of year when Alexandra “Alex” Scott held her annual lemonade stand. Her supporters across the country carry on this tradition during Lemonade Days weekend, this year during the weekend of June 12 through June 14, holding thousands of lemonade stands and grassroots events – all dedicated to fighting childhood cancer! CBS 3 and the CW Philly will host their 14-hour televised fundraiser that kicks off Alex’s Lemonade Days. CBS television personalities lead the effort, with special segments featuring Alex Scott and other childhood cancer heroes and their families. For more information visit: http://www.alexslemonade.org/

Alex’s “Original” Lemonade Stand will also be taking place on June 13. An uplifting, fun-filled, family-friendly day of remembrance at the school Alex once attended; this event is complete with food, games, crafts and raffles, held by Alex’s family and friends to raise money for childhood cancer research.

The James Beard Foundation’s (JBF) Better Burger Project™

The Village Whiskey will be participating in The James Beard Foundation’s (JBF) Better Burger Project™, a nationwide contest and challenge to make a “better burger” by blending ground meat with finely chopped, cultivated mushrooms to create a delicious, healthier, and more sustainable burger.

Chef de Cuisine Dave Conn has chosen to feature the Village Whiskey Woodland Jewel

Mushroom Burger, with Donko Shiitake Jus, Roasted Vidalia Onion, Shelburne Aged Farmhouse Cheddar ($21) to showcase a healthier burger, from now through July 31. Blending meat with mushrooms reduces calories, fat, and sodium while adding important nutrients like vitamin D, potassium, and B vitamins. A blended burger also brings more sustainable, plant-based items to menus allowing Americans to enjoy the taste and flavor of the burgers they love, knowing it’s a healthier and more sustainable preparation. America will vote for its favorites through an Instagram-based social media challenge. Diners can vote and support the Better Burger Project™ by visiting participating restaurants until July 31 and ordering the “better burger”; see participating restaurants at www.betterburgerproject.org.

By: Maryanne Salvat

A Taste of South Florida presented by Florida Blue

Culinary personality, restaurateur and New York Times best-selling author, Fabio Viviani returns to participate in the Orange Bowl Impact and Excellence Awards (The OBIES): A Taste of South Florida presented by Florida Blue as this year’s Celebrity Chef. The event takes place on Friday, May 29 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center at 7:30 p.m. The OBIES: A Taste of South Florida presented by Florida Blue features a night of extraordinary food, entertainment and giving as the Orange Bowl Committee celebrates those who share organization’s values in giving back to the South Florida community. Many of the area’s top culinary chefs and restaurants will serve their best bites for the chance to be named Flavor of South Florida. A group of graduating high school senior student athletes from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties will receive scholarships and one outstanding South Florida resident will be honored with the 2015 Keith Tribble Community Service Excellence Award for the work he or she does to make a difference. Proceeds from The OBIES: A Taste of South Florida presented by Florida Blue will go toward Make-A-Wish Southern Florida, Special Olympics Florida and the Orange Bowl Leadership Academy; for more information and tickets visit: http://community.orangebowl.org/obies/ or call 305.341.4701. Stay connected by following @OrangeBowlOBIES.

Siena Tavern and GrubHub Delivery

If you feel like staying in and relaxing this summer, don’t worry! Thanks to GrubHub, Miami Beach’s favorite Italian eatery, Siena Tavern is now offering delivery and takeout services, making it swift and easy for guests to enjoy a flavorful feast in the comfort of their own home. Siena Tavern is quickly becoming the go-to spot all locals can depend on. Its convenient hours, beautiful ambiance, and new delivery / takeout options make it easy for its South of Fifth neighbors and visitors to enjoy delicious dishes and desserts.

And for dessert, Siena Tavern is offering their new Gelato to go pints, which complete the meal and beat the Miami Heat. Some flavors to choose from include Double Chocolate, Pistachio and the popular, Salted Caramel.

Feel the Force at the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science

Warning! You are now entering the danger zone! On Saturday, May 30, just before the start of hurricane season, the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science will reveal to visitors the science behind hurricanes and other powerful weather hazards at a free event, “Feel the Force: Hurricanes and Other Hazards.” On Saturday, families can enjoy a ton of free activities.

Sponsoring partners are FIU’s International Hurricane Research Center, Miami-Dade County Emergency Management, and the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

“Feel the Force: Hurricanes and Other Hazards” Family Day; 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., free admission; Museum is open 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; Learn more at www.miamisci.org or call 305.646.4200.

Fresh American Bistro Barbeque Benefits  Surfers Healing Foundation

On Saturday, May 30, Fresh American Bistro announces its official kick-off to summer with a beach party and poolside barbeque. The evening’s menu, curated by Fresh American Bistro’s Executive Chef Philippe Ruiz, will include the chef’s famous pork and beef sliders, along with spicy sausages and chicken kabobs. The evening will include live music by The Rhythmatics, Rythmation Band and Monsieur Zon Zon. Champagne will be provided by Nicolas Feuillatte along with a chance to enter-to-win a surfboard signed by roster of pro-surfers. All of the evening’s proceeds will go to benefit the Surfers Healing Foundation, an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of people living with autism by exposing them to the unique experience of surfing. The barbeque will precede a surf camp event that will take place on Sunday, May 31, during which autistic children will receive surfing lessons by pro-surfers such as Blake Michaels, Bucky Barry, Raul Gonzalez, Ossian Farmer and Che Pilago to name a few; for more information visit: visit www.soleontheocean.com.